The principal had looked at the crystal before looking back at Zahira.
Those runes may be attached, there is a hint demonic power in that orb. A bit of celestial too, it will take studying over a course of time. Upon the transmutation and the necromatic properties. Len's emotional state will be imperative so do you're best to keep the lad calm. As for you're uncle.. He may be an old friend of mine but I think you would be a fairer of judge on whether or not involving him is for the best."
Forthright had looked them over, a second longer upon Kuro before looking back to Zahira and her question.
He is, he's an ambassador as well, from Straus Haven. He will be more than willing to aid you. I can send you the address and the like, his name is Herron Woodheart. Zephyro.. Kuro.. Shar.. Zahira it's almost as if fate has a strange sense of twist. You're guardians and parents have all worked with the man before at least once. Kuro you're father has fought alongside him. Herron was an adventurer and a war hero at a younger age. I must admit.. Despite Trick's sudden transference I wonder if his parents may change his mind upon hearing the news. Trick's father is also a reasonable man to ask look into these research notes."
After handing Len's Crystal to the principal, Zephyro adjusts his glasses then takes a look at the runes when Zahira shows them to him.
Arcana: 22 (Nat 20!)
If Zahira allows, Zeph will take the runes and study them farther as the conversation continues, pausing to speak when need be. "I am alright with letting your uncle know about this if you think it wise Zahira. It might actually be good to let at least one of our guardians know exactly what we are doing just in case something goes horribly wrong...." He looks up when she mentions that this is not an obligation. She is right of course, but he still feels as if he is obligated to follow through with their endeavor.
He looks up at the principal when Zahira asks about the archmage. If she hadn't asked about him first, the young elf would have.
Disappointment and hint of worry flash through Zephyro's eyes when Forthright hands Len back to him. Apparently they can't leave the boy here... and since they can't get him out now, they have to worry about his emotional state? The young elf looks down at the trapped boy. He could take him home, but he'd have to keep him hidden from his parents...and his younger sister. She'd be more likely to find out than his parents, and the last thing he wants is for her to get involved. He looks back up at Zahira. Perhaps she should take him...If she tells her uncle about this whole ordeal, then she wouldn't have to hide the boy. "Zahira, if it's alright do you think you could look after Len? I would do it, but if you're letting your Uncle in on this it might be better for Len if he stays with you. I don't think it would be good for his emotional state if I'm constantly having to put him somewhere out of sight."
Zeph's looks back at the principal when he mentions that his parents have worked with this Herron fellow before. He tries to remember if he has ever met the man, or has even heard of him before.
After his glance at the runes, Kuro decides he'll tell... one of his group members what he noticed. He knows both celestial and elvish so perhaps that could be of some use... though it would be extra work and he really doesn't want to stay involved in this anymore then he has to.
He glances down at his crystal, pulling it out of his pocket when his mom texts him. If he wanted to, he could probably convince her to give the others a ride... of course if she sees him with them she might offer a ride regardless of what he really wants. Still, as much as he'd rather go home alone so he can hurry up and explain what's going on to Mom and then go bunker down in his room, he realizes that Zahira and possibly Zephiro could be potential targets for the kidnappers. How would he feel if one of them got taken just because he didn't want his mom to give them a ride home? He struggles internally for a moment, his bored expression revealing none of his thoughts as he listens to Forthright talk further.
Still, Forthright isn't going to take Len? Great so they are stuck with him? Why can't Forthright just call up this archmage and give the orb to him? Cancel classes? That sounds like a good idea. Even if it isn't safer, it isn't any less safe as far as he is concerned. If classes were canceled, then he could just hide out in his room and his parents would protect him... well, actually Father might force him out if someone tried anything... On second thought it might not make much of a difference. It's so annoying that this old guy doesn't seem to realize that they are all still kids and have no business helping out in any sort of investigation like this. It isn't like some sort of kids story where they all magically are able to deal with whatever comes their way, solving problems and fighting bad guys as if they are twice their age. Geese, was everyone in this school as crazy as Father?
He actually grimaces slightly when Forthright says this archmage knows his Father. That's just what he needs, another of Dad's old friends involved in his life. If this Herron guy gets involved, then there is no way he's going to keep his Father out of this... unless the two of them are not on talking terms anymore, in which case he might not even be willing to talk to Kuro in the first place. Maybe that's a good thing, it would give him an excuse to sit out.
As much as he doesn't want to talk, he also realizes that if he doesn't say anything things are probably going to take longer. So, he says quietly to Zahira, "I don't really care. I have to tell my mom something, cause of that text..."He sticks his hands into his pockets lowering his head slightly. There are a couple different things he can think of saying, but none of them seem like the right thing to say so he stays quiet. If they talk to Herron, there is a strong chance Father will get involved. But even if they don't talk to him, there is a good chance Father will get involved anyways since he has to tell Mom something about what's going on... though he could lie, depending on whether or not anyone rides home with him and if they keep Len hidden. If Zahira doesn't want her family involved... well first of all she shouldn't have gotten herself involved (and he shouldn't have let himself get involved either for that matter), but regardless, if she doesn't want her family involved then they should talk to Herron first. Maybe they could leave the orb with him so he could... do experiments or something? Whatever, if they could leave the orb with Herron then it would be out of their hands and perhaps they could extract the entire party from the investigation. ...though he has a feeling none of them will want to fully remove themselves from this conflict--stupid adventurer mentality...
After a moment he adds, "My mom is coming to pick me up." He's clearly not eager to continue with this venture, though he hasn't given any indication as to whether he wants to quit or not. Whether that has anything to do with his personal desires or simply because he knows that he's going to be pushed into it somehow is up to anyone's guess.
Zahira is surprised to hear that Plash and Silas are old friends.
- Oh, you know my uncle, Mr Forthright? From before the war...? - so did he know that her uncle had fought on "the wrong side"? Helping Straus against Burguss? The young genasi had many questions, specially when hearing that everyone's inmediate family where so involved. Had they all been in Burguss side except for his uncle? But this time, she didn't dare ask the question aloud.
When Zephyro asks that she takes care of Len and take him to her uncle, she takes the crystal carefully and takes a look at it for a few seconds. From inside it, a pair of blue eyes return her look.
- Yes, I will - she answers, without looking up from the crystal. And thought she's not sure that the boy inside can understand, she tries to offer him a friendly smile and says - We will help you, Len. We'll find a way. Let's keep you safe for now, okay?
She then puts the crystal inside her backpack, carefully enveloping it inside a jacket she always keeps in it. She does the same with a couple of the empty crystals, just in case Plash needs to study the empty ones as well. Then she looks at everyone and continues:
- I'll take him to my uncle, see what we can figure out and I'll keep you informed. And then, we can decide about visiting Herron Woodheart, too.
To Kuro, she says:
- It's probably best if you tell her the truth. They're going to figure it out soon, specially after we speak to Woodheart. So ...- and she turns to the rest of students - ... what now? We are all heading to our homes, I guess? We shouldn't go alone, specially the magic users. And specially me, since I'm carrying Len. Should we pair up, or call someone to pick us up, as Kuro has done?
Shar hears all that's said and the final words of Zhaira.
"I... I can walk with you... " he says "Walk you home if that's ok... I am not sure if I am good in a real fight but... " he finally stands. Looking at the bugbear standing, first letting his legs down and then finally getting up is like seein a big rope unwrapping. When he finally stands they all have to look up his impressive 7'5'' feet tall and his sholder are certainly wider than the chair was. He almost fills all the free space in the room. His chest is big and his arms reach longer that they should be, his fingers almost reaching his knees without bending. "... I know I can be rather intimadting... I am sorry... "he says to the others ".. But perhaps in this situation is a good thing? I can go with you to see your uncle and help Len, even if I don't know him, hi Len, I can only imagine how horrible it must be stay trapped there... "
He says raising a little bit his voice towards the cristal where the other guy is.
The young artificer turned to watch Shar as she stood up. She looked up, and up aaand further up:
- My, you're a tall one! - she finally exclaimed - Yes, yes of course, it will most certainly help! Those kidnappers will surely think twice if they ever see you - she said, with a smile - Thank you, Shar.
Then she looked at the rest, waiting for their replies. She had thought that if Kuro's mom could drive them home it would have been the safest and most practical option, but she couldn't just go suggesting that. Then again, they could all just text their families, but it seemed so much of a trouble. They could surely just walk in groups and that should be safe enough, right?
She also thought of the possibility of Arthur coming along with Shar and her. The genasi was as eager with the idea - she loved the thought of spending what little time she could with the paladin - as she was scared of her uncle finally meeting him. "Why on Spiral did my uncle had to be in such unfriendly terms with Arthur's father? Why does everything need to be so complicated? Anyway, focus, Zahira. There are more important matters at hand now"
As she waited, she began to type in her crystal:
- Let me contact my uncle to ensure he'll be home when we arrive.
"Hi! Are you home already? I'll be there shortly, and I'll be bringing along one of my party members. His name is Shar, he is our newest companion and he is VERY VERY tall bugbear. The thing is we have found something important and though we've taken it first to the Principal, his recommendation is that we show it to you so you can help us. Please don't worry, okay? I'm perfectly fine. I'll tell you more when we arrive, as I prefer not to write too much about it through crystal. Lots of love from your gust of terror *wind amaji* !"
Silas looks to Shar and gives a slight chuckle to his remark.
"You're father is a modest man isn't he? Worked may be a stretch but once upon a time wild creatures had escaped around the embassy. With nothing but his broom stick had defeated them, this intrigued Herron. He'd had even asked him to handle more pest. You're father had done had asked but preferred the simple life, a hard worker and a natural fighter. That makes me think you may just possess the same talents."
All Zephyro needs is the Elvish,Celestial,Infernal translated off the runes and he can probably make some serious headway as he's cracking the arcaich formula rather well!
Zephyro feels the name is only vaguely familiar but it was hard to put a pin on it. Had him and Arthur texted about it before? It'd be a pain to scroll through text again but maybe someone matching that description was mentioned? The principal had looked to Kuro, he had offered a soft smile to Kuro's eagerness to leave. Arthur had came over waving at Zephyro and Kuro.
The crystal had shifted a bit, it seemed perkier than ever before to hear Shar's casual greeting. Though this caused Zahira to see the boy, a small elvish student offering her a smile as she had tried her best to reassure him.
Arthur had walked up to Shar looking up with awe in his eyes.
"Whoa you look so cool! You'd probably look even cooler in knight's armor! We gotta spar sometime it'd be so much fun!! I already wanted to spar Kuro and Zephyro but I gotta throw you on that list big guy!"
Zahira does not receive a response right away it would seem.
Kuro's text
"Hey sweetie! I'm parked outside the school! You can bring you're friends too if you want hun! You are still with you're party right..?"
When they leave the office they can see that Zim has left but Trick seems to be in a rather important phone call with his father.
OOC I wrote a small ret con idea in the group chat for Trick ^~^
OOC I know Zephyro probably knows Elvish but I'd have to look (Computer being a bit slow) to see if he knows Celestial and Infernal xD I don't think he did but I could be wrong.
Zahira plays with a strand of white hair that the breeze around her, common to her air genasi bloodline, had been moving softly up to that moment:
- Hmmm, weird, he usually answers pretty fast. Come on, dear uncleee, get your water-blue nose out of your workshop alreadyyy... - she mutters in a playful musical tone that does not really hide the fact that se has gotten a little nervous for the lack of an answer. He can't have chosen this particular day to arrive home late, right?
She will join any conversation happening next to her, but will keep checking her phone every few minutes even if it doesn't buzz.
Shar hears the tale about his father with a mix of incredulity and amazement. He only says at the end
"Well... that would explain why he insisted in me learning to move the mop that weird ways.. as if I was stabbing, or blocking, or cutting someone with another mop... we sometimes play... He said that would help my improive my game... "
When Arthur proposes to spar with him he seems to be so embarrased as when Zhaira asked for his crystal number.
"Well... yes, sure I guess but... I do not think I would be a good sparring Arthur... but if you want... I will try not to hurt you..." his lasts words sounded more like an apoly than a playful threat
Kuro stays quiet for a while, thinking he probably should just ask if anyone wants a ride but unable to bring himself to say it. Then Shar stands up, displaying his monstrous hight, hence confirming that Kuro is the smallest and most squishable person in the room. He gives a slightly surprised or confused (it's difficult to tell) expression when Arthur mentions his name and says he wants to spar him. Why in Spiral would he want to spar him of all people? Did he see that surge during their fight with the gremlins? Oh great, now the whole party is going to base their assumptions of his abilities off of that one encounter and assume he's some sort of prodigy. Well, unfortunately he's probably the exact opposite and he has zero control over his powers (as far as he is concerned). There is no way anyone is going to convince him to spar with them...
He glances down at his phone, suppressing a huff when his mom asks if he is with his party. He knew she'd ask if they wanted a ride, and now if he doesn't offer then he'll get a lecture about why he doesn't have friends and why he needs to at least try to make some. Right now, he doesn't want to deal with that. So, he nods to Zahira in a rather delayed response to her suggestion of telling the truth to his mother, and says, "My mom offered to give everyone a ride." Silently he hopes that she is willing to just drop everyone off rather than insist that they all come over for dinner... Though hopefully she won't be in that sort of mood after hearing about everything that's happened. Hopefully she'll rush everyone home instead.
(Lol, I completely forgot that Arthur mentioned Herron XD I've gotta keep this Herron and the one if Fractum strait now lol)
After examining the runes for a while, Zephyro looks up at the others. "Do any of you happen to know Infernal? I know Celestial and Elvish...obviously...If any of you do, I'm sure I could figure this out. If not, I'd like to take this home and try to translate it. I'm sure there's probably something on it in my family's library."
Zeph can't help but grin at Shar when the bugbear rises to his full height. "Well, the kidnappers would certainly think twice about attacking any of us with you around that's for sure. However, I think we should all walk home in at least pairs based on how close we are to each other's house. We can start off in a group of course, then drop people off as we go...." He trails off when he hears Kuro's crystal buzz.
"Or we could ride with Kuro, though, I doubt his mom's car has room for all of us....I still think we should base the groups off of who lives where..."
- I can't understand any of those languages, but if you know two out of three, then yes, by all means, take the runes with you.
When Kuro tells them about his mom offering, she smiles and nods:
- That's thoughtful of her! But, is she able to take us all? She'll probably need to make several trips to take us all, yes. Perhaps that is too problematic? The ones who live closer to each other are Arthur and Kuro. And I think I'm pretty near them both. The rest are a bit scattered, with Shar and Trick being the ones who live further I think.
She's not sure what's the best course of action, and she wonders how they are going to do from now on to meet after classes safely while the kidnappers are free...
A call from his father startled the tabaxi. He quickly answered as he is prone to do with his family. His heart kind of sank. Was his father calling about the egg. They did a lot of crazy things around the house. Could they have broken it? Or was this a check up on where he was and who he was with? He didn't deal with that kind of phone call right now either.
"Hey Dad!"
He greeted his father as he always would. His tail twitched slightly as he waited not very patiently for what his father might have called for. It had to be important right? This wouldn't just be randomly about Roger would it? He wasn't sure he wanted to deal with that.
Arthur had looked over to Zahira, she was waiting for her uncle to text back. Arthur had walked over putting a hand on her shoulder before looking back to Shar with a grin.
"I'm sure he'll get back to you! Also.. Shar don't worry about me I'm tougher than I look promise!"
Trick and his father had talked more, and whatever it was it appeared Trick was a bit more surprised than usual. Trick who had been quiet up till now had a lot to think about and now with that news waiting at home and that talk over he had a chance to meet with Shar. (Anybody can stealth or perception to have overheard Trick's talk.)
As they all began to head out Arthur and Himari had looked at each other before looking back at the party.
"I doubt you want us to visit you're family we aren't really you're party."
"Aww I was curious to meet Kuro's mom! Bet shes nice and quiet like he is!"
"Arthur don't just... I'm sorry. Also, thank you all for the help today I hope with what we have presented we made some progess. You all mentioned infernal right? I don't wanna seem racist but you were telling the principal and us about a Tiefling. I've heard a bit about Ethan that hes more of a player and an artist but.. He may know Infernal given his bloodline right? Gosh.. I hope that doesn't sound insensitive or anything though!"
As they head toward the call Zahira's suspicions had proven correct. Due to Shar's sheer size it would probably take about two trips not counting for Arthur or Himari even to get everyone a ride.
"Oh hey everybody! You must be Kuro's friends! It's such a pleasure to meet you all!!"
OOC Don't worry talked to Trick's PC for my post to make sense on his response haha.
Zahira pulls her gaze up from her crystal screen to look at Arthur when he comforted her:
- Yeah...yeah, you're right. He's surely just busy and hasn't heard the phone, which is probably lying under a pile of blueprints and such - she smiled, quite sure that she would find Plash when she got back home.
Hearing Himari, she exclaims:
- Oh, you're right! We can contact Ethan and ask him! What a brilliant idea, Himari - the genasi then approaches Zephyro an asks him to show her the runes once again. Then she takes a picture of them - Let's see if with this pic he can make sense of them and tell us what it is written there. I'll text him right away and keep you all posted.
"Hello Ethan. Hope you are okay and well hidden away as you intended to. Some friends found some runes that might be connected to you know what. I'm sending you a picture. We have the Celestial and Elvish parts figured out. Can you help us with the Infernal part? Thank you a ton! PS: It's probably safer if you delete the message and the picture afterwards. Just in case."
She then says goodbye to the Principal, and also to Arthur and Himari, saying:
- Be careful on your way back home, okay? And see you soon!
She remembers that she had talked with Arthur about going for an ice cream the next day, but with all that is happening it was probably best to forget about that for a while? There would surely be better and safer opportunities for that when the matter with the kidnappers was solved.
As they move to meet Kuro's mom, she catches Trick talking on the phone. The half-tabaxi looks quite surprised and Zahira wonders what might he be talking about. (OOC: Perception 19).
She smiles to the woman in front of her:
- Nice to meet you, Mrs Ryuzan! I'm Zahira. Thank you so much for taking us home, it's very thoughtful of you. We are quite a few and I'm afraid this will mean that two trips are needed. Sorry for that...
Seeing how Zephiro knows both Celestial and Elvish, Kuro doesn't see any reason to offer up his own abilities on that front. Zephiro probably knows both languages better than he does anyways. So, instead he just lets his mom know that they are on their way out and stays quiet. He hadn't intended to extend the invite to Arthur and Himari as neither of them are part of their party...and honestly he hadn't intended to include Shar either as they just met. He grimaces internally at the thought of having to make two trips, as his mom will probably make him wait with whoever stays behind instead of just taking him home first. He'll at least take the front seat, not wanting to be shoved in the back with the bugbear he barely just met. He was seriously considering trying to hitch a ride in the trunk, just to ensure his solitude, but then thoughts of suffocation drove that idea out of his head.
He stays as blank as ever when they approach his mom's car, not bothering to introduce anyone as they all already know who his mom is. He just waits for her to figure out what she wants to do now that she's volunteered to be a taxi driver. He doesn't even spare a glance towards Trick when he gets a surprise call from his dad, why bother listening in? It's none of his buisness. Though, he does give a glance towards Shar when the large kid offers to squeeze into the trunk... odd that he'd have that idea too... wasn't he worried about suffocating? Maybe bugbears don't need as much oxygen... eh, if he's willing to risk it then why not let him? Then there could be room for the other three to squeeze into the back and he can ride shotgun...assuming his mom doesn't make him let Zahira ride in front.
The information his father had called about had been the egg. His tail immediately started wagging without him really realizing it. Even if he had he didn't think he would be able to stop it. It was clear that he wasn't trying to hide this conversation though. His eyes brightened and he let out an excited sound that almost sounded like a meow. This was the best news he had gotten all day!
"It's hatching! Aw that's amazing! I can't wait! I'm so excited to meet him or her... I have been waiting for so long!!! I can't believe it hatched! I'll have to tell Roger and my teacher of course! Ah! I was so worried I was doing something wrong! I'll have to tell my friends as well. Oh! Or maybe I should keep it to myself and make it a surprise by bringing it with me tomorrow!"
Though he is normally friendly this is probably the most excitable he has ever been. He couldn't wait to get home now. The very egg he had taken care of for so long was finally hatching. He had done something right! Now he would get down to business training it. He couldn't help all of the excitement that was building up in him. His tail continued to wag.
"Thanks Dad that's the best news you could have given me today! Make sure mom doesn't start saying cat puns around it!"
"I don't think that's incentive at all Himari. It's only natural to assume that sort of thing....That's my opinion anyways..."
Zephyro gladly shows Zahira the runes so she can take a picture before he places them in his pack. He's glad that she decided to text Ethan rather than having to do it himself. The young elf was a bit weirded out by the guy, plus he feels guilty for being fake around him. Cerebrum, what a day.
"If it's two much trouble, I can walk home my house isn't far from the school... Or I can call Mr. Nelson and have him pick me up...as a matter of fact I could have him pick up a few of us if necessary." He pauses for a moment when he realizes his friends have no clue who Mr. Nelson is. "Uh...Mr. Nelson is my family's butler, but he's been with us for so long he may as well be part of the family."
Zeph notices Trick talking excitedly on the phone and smiles. He wonders what the tabaxi is talking about....but it's rude to eavesdrop. If he wants to tell them about it later then he will.
After walking out to meet Kuro's mother, Zephyro has to once again stop himself from giving a formal bow, instead he opts for a friendly wave. "I'm Zephyro. Pleasure to meet you."
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The principal had looked at the crystal before looking back at Zahira.
Those runes may be attached, there is a hint demonic power in that orb. A bit of celestial too, it will take studying over a course of time. Upon the transmutation and the necromatic properties. Len's emotional state will be imperative so do you're best to keep the lad calm. As for you're uncle.. He may be an old friend of mine but I think you would be a fairer of judge on whether or not involving him is for the best."
Forthright had looked them over, a second longer upon Kuro before looking back to Zahira and her question.
He is, he's an ambassador as well, from Straus Haven. He will be more than willing to aid you. I can send you the address and the like, his name is Herron Woodheart. Zephyro.. Kuro.. Shar.. Zahira it's almost as if fate has a strange sense of twist. You're guardians and parents have all worked with the man before at least once. Kuro you're father has fought alongside him. Herron was an adventurer and a war hero at a younger age. I must admit.. Despite Trick's sudden transference I wonder if his parents may change his mind upon hearing the news. Trick's father is also a reasonable man to ask look into these research notes."
The face of Shan is of incredulity.
"My... my parents? know this... Ambassador? " he thinks for a second " I didn't know they worked as janitors at that Embassy..."
PbP Character: A few ;)
After handing Len's Crystal to the principal, Zephyro adjusts his glasses then takes a look at the runes when Zahira shows them to him.
Arcana: 22 (Nat 20!)
If Zahira allows, Zeph will take the runes and study them farther as the conversation continues, pausing to speak when need be. "I am alright with letting your uncle know about this if you think it wise Zahira. It might actually be good to let at least one of our guardians know exactly what we are doing just in case something goes horribly wrong...." He looks up when she mentions that this is not an obligation. She is right of course, but he still feels as if he is obligated to follow through with their endeavor.
He looks up at the principal when Zahira asks about the archmage. If she hadn't asked about him first, the young elf would have.
Disappointment and hint of worry flash through Zephyro's eyes when Forthright hands Len back to him. Apparently they can't leave the boy here... and since they can't get him out now, they have to worry about his emotional state? The young elf looks down at the trapped boy. He could take him home, but he'd have to keep him hidden from his parents...and his younger sister. She'd be more likely to find out than his parents, and the last thing he wants is for her to get involved. He looks back up at Zahira. Perhaps she should take him...If she tells her uncle about this whole ordeal, then she wouldn't have to hide the boy. "Zahira, if it's alright do you think you could look after Len? I would do it, but if you're letting your Uncle in on this it might be better for Len if he stays with you. I don't think it would be good for his emotional state if I'm constantly having to put him somewhere out of sight."
Zeph's looks back at the principal when he mentions that his parents have worked with this Herron fellow before. He tries to remember if he has ever met the man, or has even heard of him before.
History? 7
After his glance at the runes, Kuro decides he'll tell... one of his group members what he noticed. He knows both celestial and elvish so perhaps that could be of some use... though it would be extra work and he really doesn't want to stay involved in this anymore then he has to.
He glances down at his crystal, pulling it out of his pocket when his mom texts him. If he wanted to, he could probably convince her to give the others a ride... of course if she sees him with them she might offer a ride regardless of what he really wants. Still, as much as he'd rather go home alone so he can hurry up and explain what's going on to Mom and then go bunker down in his room, he realizes that Zahira and possibly Zephiro could be potential targets for the kidnappers. How would he feel if one of them got taken just because he didn't want his mom to give them a ride home? He struggles internally for a moment, his bored expression revealing none of his thoughts as he listens to Forthright talk further.
Still, Forthright isn't going to take Len? Great so they are stuck with him? Why can't Forthright just call up this archmage and give the orb to him? Cancel classes? That sounds like a good idea. Even if it isn't safer, it isn't any less safe as far as he is concerned. If classes were canceled, then he could just hide out in his room and his parents would protect him... well, actually Father might force him out if someone tried anything... On second thought it might not make much of a difference. It's so annoying that this old guy doesn't seem to realize that they are all still kids and have no business helping out in any sort of investigation like this. It isn't like some sort of kids story where they all magically are able to deal with whatever comes their way, solving problems and fighting bad guys as if they are twice their age. Geese, was everyone in this school as crazy as Father?
He actually grimaces slightly when Forthright says this archmage knows his Father. That's just what he needs, another of Dad's old friends involved in his life. If this Herron guy gets involved, then there is no way he's going to keep his Father out of this... unless the two of them are not on talking terms anymore, in which case he might not even be willing to talk to Kuro in the first place. Maybe that's a good thing, it would give him an excuse to sit out.
As much as he doesn't want to talk, he also realizes that if he doesn't say anything things are probably going to take longer. So, he says quietly to Zahira, "I don't really care. I have to tell my mom something, cause of that text..." He sticks his hands into his pockets lowering his head slightly. There are a couple different things he can think of saying, but none of them seem like the right thing to say so he stays quiet. If they talk to Herron, there is a strong chance Father will get involved. But even if they don't talk to him, there is a good chance Father will get involved anyways since he has to tell Mom something about what's going on... though he could lie, depending on whether or not anyone rides home with him and if they keep Len hidden. If Zahira doesn't want her family involved... well first of all she shouldn't have gotten herself involved (and he shouldn't have let himself get involved either for that matter), but regardless, if she doesn't want her family involved then they should talk to Herron first. Maybe they could leave the orb with him so he could... do experiments or something? Whatever, if they could leave the orb with Herron then it would be out of their hands and perhaps they could extract the entire party from the investigation. ...though he has a feeling none of them will want to fully remove themselves from this conflict--stupid adventurer mentality...
After a moment he adds, "My mom is coming to pick me up." He's clearly not eager to continue with this venture, though he hasn't given any indication as to whether he wants to quit or not. Whether that has anything to do with his personal desires or simply because he knows that he's going to be pushed into it somehow is up to anyone's guess.
Zahira is surprised to hear that Plash and Silas are old friends.
- Oh, you know my uncle, Mr Forthright? From before the war...? - so did he know that her uncle had fought on "the wrong side"? Helping Straus against Burguss? The young genasi had many questions, specially when hearing that everyone's inmediate family where so involved. Had they all been in Burguss side except for his uncle? But this time, she didn't dare ask the question aloud.
When Zephyro asks that she takes care of Len and take him to her uncle, she takes the crystal carefully and takes a look at it for a few seconds. From inside it, a pair of blue eyes return her look.
- Yes, I will - she answers, without looking up from the crystal. And thought she's not sure that the boy inside can understand, she tries to offer him a friendly smile and says - We will help you, Len. We'll find a way. Let's keep you safe for now, okay?
She then puts the crystal inside her backpack, carefully enveloping it inside a jacket she always keeps in it. She does the same with a couple of the empty crystals, just in case Plash needs to study the empty ones as well. Then she looks at everyone and continues:
- I'll take him to my uncle, see what we can figure out and I'll keep you informed. And then, we can decide about visiting Herron Woodheart, too.
To Kuro, she says:
- It's probably best if you tell her the truth. They're going to figure it out soon, specially after we speak to Woodheart. So ... - and she turns to the rest of students - ... what now? We are all heading to our homes, I guess? We shouldn't go alone, specially the magic users. And specially me, since I'm carrying Len. Should we pair up, or call someone to pick us up, as Kuro has done?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Shar hears all that's said and the final words of Zhaira.
"I... I can walk with you... " he says "Walk you home if that's ok... I am not sure if I am good in a real fight but... " he finally stands. Looking at the bugbear standing, first letting his legs down and then finally getting up is like seein a big rope unwrapping. When he finally stands they all have to look up his impressive 7'5'' feet tall and his sholder are certainly wider than the chair was. He almost fills all the free space in the room. His chest is big and his arms reach longer that they should be, his fingers almost reaching his knees without bending. "... I know I can be rather intimadting... I am sorry... " he says to the others ".. But perhaps in this situation is a good thing? I can go with you to see your uncle and help Len, even if I don't know him, hi Len, I can only imagine how horrible it must be stay trapped there... "
He says raising a little bit his voice towards the cristal where the other guy is.
PbP Character: A few ;)
The young artificer turned to watch Shar as she stood up. She looked up, and up aaand further up:
- My, you're a tall one! - she finally exclaimed - Yes, yes of course, it will most certainly help! Those kidnappers will surely think twice if they ever see you - she said, with a smile - Thank you, Shar.
Then she looked at the rest, waiting for their replies. She had thought that if Kuro's mom could drive them home it would have been the safest and most practical option, but she couldn't just go suggesting that. Then again, they could all just text their families, but it seemed so much of a trouble. They could surely just walk in groups and that should be safe enough, right?
She also thought of the possibility of Arthur coming along with Shar and her. The genasi was as eager with the idea - she loved the thought of spending what little time she could with the paladin - as she was scared of her uncle finally meeting him. "Why on Spiral did my uncle had to be in such unfriendly terms with Arthur's father? Why does everything need to be so complicated? Anyway, focus, Zahira. There are more important matters at hand now"
As she waited, she began to type in her crystal:
- Let me contact my uncle to ensure he'll be home when we arrive.
"Hi! Are you home already? I'll be there shortly, and I'll be bringing along one of my party members. His name is Shar, he is our newest companion and he is VERY VERY tall bugbear. The thing is we have found something important and though we've taken it first to the Principal, his recommendation is that we show it to you so you can help us. Please don't worry, okay? I'm perfectly fine. I'll tell you more when we arrive, as I prefer not to write too much about it through crystal. Lots of love from your gust of terror *wind amaji* !"
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Silas looks to Shar and gives a slight chuckle to his remark.
"You're father is a modest man isn't he? Worked may be a stretch but once upon a time wild creatures had escaped around the embassy. With nothing but his broom stick had defeated them, this intrigued Herron. He'd had even asked him to handle more pest. You're father had done had asked but preferred the simple life, a hard worker and a natural fighter. That makes me think you may just possess the same talents."
All Zephyro needs is the Elvish,Celestial,Infernal translated off the runes and he can probably make some serious headway as he's cracking the arcaich formula rather well!
Zephyro feels the name is only vaguely familiar but it was hard to put a pin on it. Had him and Arthur texted about it before? It'd be a pain to scroll through text again but maybe someone matching that description was mentioned? The principal had looked to Kuro, he had offered a soft smile to Kuro's eagerness to leave. Arthur had came over waving at Zephyro and Kuro.
The crystal had shifted a bit, it seemed perkier than ever before to hear Shar's casual greeting. Though this caused Zahira to see the boy, a small elvish student offering her a smile as she had tried her best to reassure him.
Arthur had walked up to Shar looking up with awe in his eyes.
"Whoa you look so cool! You'd probably look even cooler in knight's armor! We gotta spar sometime it'd be so much fun!! I already wanted to spar Kuro and Zephyro but I gotta throw you on that list big guy!"
Zahira does not receive a response right away it would seem.
Kuro's text
"Hey sweetie! I'm parked outside the school! You can bring you're friends too if you want hun! You are still with you're party right..?"
When they leave the office they can see that Zim has left but Trick seems to be in a rather important phone call with his father.
OOC
I wrote a small ret con idea in the group chat for Trick ^~^
OOC
I know Zephyro probably knows Elvish but I'd have to look (Computer being a bit slow) to see if he knows Celestial and Infernal xD I don't think he did but I could be wrong.
Kuro can translate the celestial nice!
Zahira plays with a strand of white hair that the breeze around her, common to her air genasi bloodline, had been moving softly up to that moment:
- Hmmm, weird, he usually answers pretty fast. Come on, dear uncleee, get your water-blue nose out of your workshop alreadyyy... - she mutters in a playful musical tone that does not really hide the fact that se has gotten a little nervous for the lack of an answer. He can't have chosen this particular day to arrive home late, right?
She will join any conversation happening next to her, but will keep checking her phone every few minutes even if it doesn't buzz.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Shar hears the tale about his father with a mix of incredulity and amazement. He only says at the end
"Well... that would explain why he insisted in me learning to move the mop that weird ways.. as if I was stabbing, or blocking, or cutting someone with another mop... we sometimes play... He said that would help my improive my game... "
When Arthur proposes to spar with him he seems to be so embarrased as when Zhaira asked for his crystal number.
"Well... yes, sure I guess but... I do not think I would be a good sparring Arthur... but if you want... I will try not to hurt you..." his lasts words sounded more like an apoly than a playful threat
PbP Character: A few ;)
Kuro stays quiet for a while, thinking he probably should just ask if anyone wants a ride but unable to bring himself to say it. Then Shar stands up, displaying his monstrous hight, hence confirming that Kuro is the smallest and most squishable person in the room. He gives a slightly surprised or confused (it's difficult to tell) expression when Arthur mentions his name and says he wants to spar him. Why in Spiral would he want to spar him of all people? Did he see that surge during their fight with the gremlins? Oh great, now the whole party is going to base their assumptions of his abilities off of that one encounter and assume he's some sort of prodigy. Well, unfortunately he's probably the exact opposite and he has zero control over his powers (as far as he is concerned). There is no way anyone is going to convince him to spar with them...
He glances down at his phone, suppressing a huff when his mom asks if he is with his party. He knew she'd ask if they wanted a ride, and now if he doesn't offer then he'll get a lecture about why he doesn't have friends and why he needs to at least try to make some. Right now, he doesn't want to deal with that. So, he nods to Zahira in a rather delayed response to her suggestion of telling the truth to his mother, and says, "My mom offered to give everyone a ride." Silently he hopes that she is willing to just drop everyone off rather than insist that they all come over for dinner... Though hopefully she won't be in that sort of mood after hearing about everything that's happened. Hopefully she'll rush everyone home instead.
(Lol, I completely forgot that Arthur mentioned Herron XD I've gotta keep this Herron and the one if Fractum strait now lol)
After examining the runes for a while, Zephyro looks up at the others. "Do any of you happen to know Infernal? I know Celestial and Elvish...obviously...If any of you do, I'm sure I could figure this out. If not, I'd like to take this home and try to translate it. I'm sure there's probably something on it in my family's library."
Zeph can't help but grin at Shar when the bugbear rises to his full height. "Well, the kidnappers would certainly think twice about attacking any of us with you around that's for sure. However, I think we should all walk home in at least pairs based on how close we are to each other's house. We can start off in a group of course, then drop people off as we go...." He trails off when he hears Kuro's crystal buzz.
"Or we could ride with Kuro, though, I doubt his mom's car has room for all of us....I still think we should base the groups off of who lives where..."
Regarding the runes, Zahira says:
- I can't understand any of those languages, but if you know two out of three, then yes, by all means, take the runes with you.
When Kuro tells them about his mom offering, she smiles and nods:
- That's thoughtful of her! But, is she able to take us all? She'll probably need to make several trips to take us all, yes. Perhaps that is too problematic? The ones who live closer to each other are Arthur and Kuro. And I think I'm pretty near them both. The rest are a bit scattered, with Shar and Trick being the ones who live further I think.
She's not sure what's the best course of action, and she wonders how they are going to do from now on to meet after classes safely while the kidnappers are free...
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
A call from his father startled the tabaxi. He quickly answered as he is prone to do with his family. His heart kind of sank. Was his father calling about the egg. They did a lot of crazy things around the house. Could they have broken it? Or was this a check up on where he was and who he was with? He didn't deal with that kind of phone call right now either.
"Hey Dad!"
He greeted his father as he always would. His tail twitched slightly as he waited not very patiently for what his father might have called for. It had to be important right? This wouldn't just be randomly about Roger would it? He wasn't sure he wanted to deal with that.
Arthur had looked over to Zahira, she was waiting for her uncle to text back. Arthur had walked over putting a hand on her shoulder before looking back to Shar with a grin.
"I'm sure he'll get back to you! Also.. Shar don't worry about me I'm tougher than I look promise!"
Trick and his father had talked more, and whatever it was it appeared Trick was a bit more surprised than usual. Trick who had been quiet up till now had a lot to think about and now with that news waiting at home and that talk over he had a chance to meet with Shar. (Anybody can stealth or perception to have overheard Trick's talk.)
As they all began to head out Arthur and Himari had looked at each other before looking back at the party.
"I doubt you want us to visit you're family we aren't really you're party."
"Aww I was curious to meet Kuro's mom! Bet shes nice and quiet like he is!"
"Arthur don't just... I'm sorry. Also, thank you all for the help today I hope with what we have presented we made some progess. You all mentioned infernal right? I don't wanna seem racist but you were telling the principal and us about a Tiefling. I've heard a bit about Ethan that hes more of a player and an artist but.. He may know Infernal given his bloodline right? Gosh.. I hope that doesn't sound insensitive or anything though!"
As they head toward the call Zahira's suspicions had proven correct. Due to Shar's sheer size it would probably take about two trips not counting for Arthur or Himari even to get everyone a ride.
"Oh hey everybody! You must be Kuro's friends! It's such a pleasure to meet you all!!"
OOC
Don't worry talked to Trick's PC for my post to make sense on his response haha.
Zahira pulls her gaze up from her crystal screen to look at Arthur when he comforted her:
- Yeah...yeah, you're right. He's surely just busy and hasn't heard the phone, which is probably lying under a pile of blueprints and such - she smiled, quite sure that she would find Plash when she got back home.
Hearing Himari, she exclaims:
- Oh, you're right! We can contact Ethan and ask him! What a brilliant idea, Himari - the genasi then approaches Zephyro an asks him to show her the runes once again. Then she takes a picture of them - Let's see if with this pic he can make sense of them and tell us what it is written there. I'll text him right away and keep you all posted.
"Hello Ethan. Hope you are okay and well hidden away as you intended to. Some friends found some runes that might be connected to you know what. I'm sending you a picture. We have the Celestial and Elvish parts figured out. Can you help us with the Infernal part? Thank you a ton! PS: It's probably safer if you delete the message and the picture afterwards. Just in case."
She then says goodbye to the Principal, and also to Arthur and Himari, saying:
- Be careful on your way back home, okay? And see you soon!
She remembers that she had talked with Arthur about going for an ice cream the next day, but with all that is happening it was probably best to forget about that for a while? There would surely be better and safer opportunities for that when the matter with the kidnappers was solved.
As they move to meet Kuro's mom, she catches Trick talking on the phone. The half-tabaxi looks quite surprised and Zahira wonders what might he be talking about. (OOC: Perception 19).
She smiles to the woman in front of her:
- Nice to meet you, Mrs Ryuzan! I'm Zahira. Thank you so much for taking us home, it's very thoughtful of you. We are quite a few and I'm afraid this will mean that two trips are needed. Sorry for that...
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Shar smiles back shyly at Arthur.
“Ok then… are you in the team too?”
He then thanks the principal and takes his backpack and follows the others lowering his head to cross the door of the principal’s office.
Once they introduce themselves to Kuro’s mother he says.
“It’s ok nadam. I can squeeze in the trunk or in one of the trae seats…”
PbP Character: A few ;)
Seeing how Zephiro knows both Celestial and Elvish, Kuro doesn't see any reason to offer up his own abilities on that front. Zephiro probably knows both languages better than he does anyways. So, instead he just lets his mom know that they are on their way out and stays quiet. He hadn't intended to extend the invite to Arthur and Himari as neither of them are part of their party...and honestly he hadn't intended to include Shar either as they just met. He grimaces internally at the thought of having to make two trips, as his mom will probably make him wait with whoever stays behind instead of just taking him home first. He'll at least take the front seat, not wanting to be shoved in the back with the bugbear he barely just met. He was seriously considering trying to hitch a ride in the trunk, just to ensure his solitude, but then thoughts of suffocation drove that idea out of his head.
He stays as blank as ever when they approach his mom's car, not bothering to introduce anyone as they all already know who his mom is. He just waits for her to figure out what she wants to do now that she's volunteered to be a taxi driver. He doesn't even spare a glance towards Trick when he gets a surprise call from his dad, why bother listening in? It's none of his buisness. Though, he does give a glance towards Shar when the large kid offers to squeeze into the trunk... odd that he'd have that idea too... wasn't he worried about suffocating? Maybe bugbears don't need as much oxygen... eh, if he's willing to risk it then why not let him? Then there could be room for the other three to squeeze into the back and he can ride shotgun...assuming his mom doesn't make him let Zahira ride in front.
The information his father had called about had been the egg. His tail immediately started wagging without him really realizing it. Even if he had he didn't think he would be able to stop it. It was clear that he wasn't trying to hide this conversation though. His eyes brightened and he let out an excited sound that almost sounded like a meow. This was the best news he had gotten all day!
"It's hatching! Aw that's amazing! I can't wait! I'm so excited to meet him or her... I have been waiting for so long!!! I can't believe it hatched! I'll have to tell Roger and my teacher of course! Ah! I was so worried I was doing something wrong! I'll have to tell my friends as well. Oh! Or maybe I should keep it to myself and make it a surprise by bringing it with me tomorrow!"
Though he is normally friendly this is probably the most excitable he has ever been. He couldn't wait to get home now. The very egg he had taken care of for so long was finally hatching. He had done something right! Now he would get down to business training it. He couldn't help all of the excitement that was building up in him. His tail continued to wag.
"Thanks Dad that's the best news you could have given me today! Make sure mom doesn't start saying cat puns around it!"
"I don't think that's incentive at all Himari. It's only natural to assume that sort of thing....That's my opinion anyways..."
Zephyro gladly shows Zahira the runes so she can take a picture before he places them in his pack. He's glad that she decided to text Ethan rather than having to do it himself. The young elf was a bit weirded out by the guy, plus he feels guilty for being fake around him. Cerebrum, what a day.
"If it's two much trouble, I can walk home my house isn't far from the school... Or I can call Mr. Nelson and have him pick me up...as a matter of fact I could have him pick up a few of us if necessary." He pauses for a moment when he realizes his friends have no clue who Mr. Nelson is. "Uh...Mr. Nelson is my family's butler, but he's been with us for so long he may as well be part of the family."
Zeph notices Trick talking excitedly on the phone and smiles. He wonders what the tabaxi is talking about....but it's rude to eavesdrop. If he wants to tell them about it later then he will.
After walking out to meet Kuro's mother, Zephyro has to once again stop himself from giving a formal bow, instead he opts for a friendly wave. "I'm Zephyro. Pleasure to meet you."