Having already urged everyone to just call it a night, Liivi is ready to head back inside. She waits to listen to what everyone has to say, but there seems to be little point to her conversing any more today. Not with Janus standing here. Probably not even while residing within his residence. 'Will he go with us?' she wonders. 'Guess we'll find out tomorrow.'  

The discussion of the Sword Coast is a bit over her head. She's not familiar with these games evidently. 'Are they saying Maya and Renar are from a fictional place? What does that mean?'  She will have to ask someone later when she gets a chance. 

"Are the rooms all upstairs?" she asks, subtly trying to turn thoughts back to retiring. "I presume we can meet again in the morning in the large dining hall?  An early meal perhaps?" she says, glancing at Janus. "Then we can be on the road!" 

"Fine, I'll give you a chance." Janus is still stern-faced, but you can see his tail wagging a little bit. Maybe he's surprised that this somehow works, or maybe he didn't think he would come across a peaceful Torilian for once—nonetheless, it seems that he's happy he can finally resolve this issue for once.

"I promise I will never tell anyone about this, because if they know, it will be the end of the world as we know it." He sighs, then he kneels down, heads bowed. "And I'm truly sorry about intruding on your personal space... I just don't want you to turn on each other, because you are my—no, our last hope of saving the world."

He gets up and changes the topic, "A lot of people have been experiencing floods due to severe weather recently. The cart that will transport you to Madura has medicine, tools, and food for those in need. Just drop them off as you pass by some settlements, it shouldn't delay your trip to the city." He glances to the side, then looks back at you. "I won't accompany you during your adventure, ever, unless there is an emergency. I have a lot of things to do in order to play a part in saving our planet."

"You should wake up around 5:30 in the morning and then head to the town square, the driver will provide you with food during the four-day trip, so there is no need to worry about that."

He turns to Maya, "I don't have the time to teach you, but others might. You should sign up for an adult education programme if you have free time. Don't worry about the fee, Kerwos has free school at all levels except the university." Again, you can only do that in Madura or other major cities, most villages and settlements only have primary schools.

From what Liivi can see, there are both rooms on the ground floor and the first floor. Janus usually hangs out on the second floor, so if you really want to make sure he isn't spying on you, you should sleep on the ground floor instead.

Alex lets out a breath. Well good, it seems that Maya's temperament and words might have finally swayed Janus at least somewhat. This lets his smile return slightly, and his frown is replaced by a look of weariness. "Sounds good," he says. "I... don't know what to think of us apparently being the world's last hope. I still feel like there are others out there who could at least help." He thinks of his childhood friends, wondering where they are and what they are doing at the moment. Surely if he can help with this upcoming threat they could help too. "But I get it. Still, don't worry about us. We are figuring things out. I think we'll be a stronger team after everything that's happened tonight."

After they say goodnight to Janus, Alex walks away with Mira and Liivi, "You girls can pick your rooms first... though I think Renar has his picked out already." He jabs a thumb in the direction of the room upstairs where he'd originally been speaking with Renar. 

"Alek..." Mira whispers. "I get that... I get that you want to trust everyone. And believe me: I want to stand with you on this matter. But... the more I think about it, the more reality isn't as what we hope it would be. We should be thankful that Maya isn't that perceived monster. And... Renar... I'm amazed he hasn't turned on us either despite his dreadful body language and stare. They're from the Sword Coast, those oddballs. Yet... Maya says she's given strict orders not to kill anyone. For someone who comes from a murderous, imaginary realm isn't that a bit... odd?"

"Odd? Not really, not if you ask me anyways," he says without much thought. "I somehow doubt these other planets are really as barbaric as Janus and Paulis make them out to be. But..." He trails off, stoping to think a bit more about the comment, "...well, now that you mention it, it is kind of odd. She's a queen right? Who has the power to give her orders?" God perhaps? She does have the look of a cleric, but... does Toril have the same god as Lancea? No... that wouldn't make sense, not with the lore... Hmmm. "I suppose it is a little odd when I stop and think about it. Though not because I think their world is full of murderers. More cause I don't know who's giving the orders and why. If we really are so close to having a war with them, then why wouldn't she be allowed to do as much damage as she can when she's here? Who on their world is behind this supposed oncoming assault? Who's asking for this war to start? Where is this information actually coming from? Are both planets really on board with this? Or is it just one and the other has been lumped in by Janus and Paulis?" More and more questions start bubbling up causing Alex to fall silent again. Janus might have apologized for spying, but... well it really wouldn't surprise him if the demon continued to listen in as long as they are in his house. Maybe Janus could answer some questions, but Alex would rather not talk to him anymore today. Maybe tomorrow, after he's gotten some rest. 

"Anyways, should get to bed. I know I'm not looking forward to getting up early after the beating we both took today," He chuckles, then waits to see who picks what room. He isn't sure what room Shugo picked, so maybe he'll wait and see. He'll take whatever is open after everyone else has... for now he'll just go take a shower. Well, maybe not. He needs a place to stash his armor while he's cleaning up after all. So that just leaves him to wait. 

Liivi gives Alex a smile as they start to walk away with Mira. "It is kind of you - though unnecessary - to allow us ladies to have first choice of room.  Perhaps we can find spaces for all three of us downstairs here. So long as there is a spot to sleep I will be fine."  She chuckles quite softly. "Given how fancy the place is, I'm sure all the rooms will be grand." Assuming they soon find the rooms, she will not begrudge Alex his offer and will choose a room before him.  She does however defer to Mira for her to take her pick first. 

"You may have many good questions there Alex. Something to discuss on the road."  The tabaxi then looks to Mira. "And perhaps one of these days we can have a bit longer conversation as well." 

If nobody asks anything of her once the rooms are set, she will retire for the night. 

Renar

Mira

Seeing that everyone has just about had enough now that Janus has rudely interrupt their joyful moment, Mira was the last to head inside without a word. Even as Janus apologizes she isn't even convinced in the slightest. Though... she realises that Maya had in fact dropped her cloak on the floor unknowingly, so she picks up first and neatly folds it on the way in, all the while listening to Alek giving his opinion. "Sigh... How should I know? It's pretty clear she knows more about her own world more than any of us here. Minus Renar, probably." She responds to Alek. There wasn't much she could say as the young and handsome paladin leaves and showers. "I'll see you tomorrow then, handsome!" She teases, sticking a tongue out at him playfully when he turns his back on her. And now it's just her and the leopard warrior left downstairs; Maya doesn't seem she wants to come down anymore, judging by the fact that she hasn't been heard from ever since she abruptly left Janus be. Speaking of Liivi, all she got from the queen was nothing more than an irritated look, though it's obvious it's not directed at her.

"Hopefully, Liivi. Hopefully. Our current one was going so deep up until these untimely interruptions." She pouts to herself. She glances at the bottom bedrooms; Whilst tempted to take that one on the stairs, it appears that Alek must've beaten her to it. Plus, she deduces that Renar and Shugo might've taken those seeing that she hasn't seen either of them in a while. "How many beds are each in room on the bottom? I wouldn't mind sleeping with you but still." She asks curiously to Liivi, after which she sits on a couch in silence, occasionally toying around with some minor spells whilst she waits for Alek to indicate that he's finished showering. "Alright, I'm off. I'll see you back downstairs when I'm done. Or uh... I mean... ok bye." She calls out to Liivi embarrassingly before she heads up to freshen her fur under the hot water; She actually just wanted to say she'll wait for her to finish showering. Once she's done, she uses a bit of magic to clean her own dress and make it look fresh as new again, before she makes her way back down and hops towards one of the bottom bedrooms regardless of if Liivi follows or not.

Now inside her temporary dorm, Mira couldn't help but flop back-first on her bed whilst she tosses and turns in excitement; Commonly, when she's all alone, she spends the rest of her night talking to herself to sleep. "Oh heavens on Lancea... what a day. I need to doze off right now before I mutter gibberish that I can't understand..." These past few hours have been huge for her. First, she's finally been given the privilege to explore the world beyond her noble lifestyle, then she encounters a group of people just like her, wanting to find some mysterious artefact... wanting to explore whatever 'human' things that have been left behind on this planet, and then she encounters not one but TWO Torilians?! Two people, from a world that her adoptive siblings fantasized about when they played those tabletop games without her? Wow... I really want to say 'eat it suckers' to them but... nah. I think I should keep that a little secret, heehee. She giggles to herself. Already, this to her feels like a blessing and a curse at the same time; double-edged sword. Because now that she's thinking even deeper about this, the fledgling queen now comes to a realization: Will she be able to juggle the responsibility of being the ruler of two worlds as well as ensuring the security of the Torilians? Is she even up to the task of this incredibly massive responsibility? Or would she come to a stark reality that she's bitten off more than she can chew? She then bonks her head lightly.

"No, of course I wouldn't think pessimistically like that. Infinite in mystery is the gift of the goddess. We seek it thus, and take to the sky (Loveless Act I); As my mother rightfully taught me and my siblings: work with what you have right now, and use them to the fullest."  She thinks and recalls simultaneously. She had always been looking for a challenge. This major quest to save Lancea, this would serve as her ultimate test of courage. Boy... was this what she had been missing ever since she left the palace on her own accord? She just couldn't help but phase into the widest smile on her face as she stares blankly at the ceiling. "I... Queen or Duchess Mira of Platone, swear with my rabbit-sized heart, to bring Toril and Lancea to peace... to forge a union between two worlds, one step at a time. Your desire... sigh... is the bringer of life, the gift of the goddess (Loveless Act IV). I swear on my oath and to the rebellion... this quest to maintain our freedom will last till my dying breath... just you wait, you all. The day has ended... but this... This is just the beginning!" 

You gain the benefits of a long rest.

8th April -1C 4983 CY

You wake up to yet another rainy day, last night was somewhat clear, but it appears not to be the case. And Janus is nowhere to be found.

You walk to the town square, it's still early in the morning, so things are still very quiet. There are two carts waiting for you, one is a wagon with cover which will protect you from the rain, and the other is loaded with crates of various sizes. Astra's shop is nowhere to be seen, only an empty lot appears in its place.

"Just a heads up, we're riding non-stop until we reach Madura. I've got a report that the recent storm ravaged Route 701, which means we might get stuck in mud or other hazards. We need to make our time count since my client said you need to get there before the 12th." The driver of your wagon, an older-looking dwarf, says. 

You hop on the wagon and begin your travel to the capital of Rauna.

Once you ride out of the village, you see the damage the recent storm had done to the surrounding area. This area of Rauna is known for growing wheat and potatoes, but now, these farmlands were reduced to nothing but a field of mud and water. This will cost Elmars a lot, assuming he will compensate all the farmers and buy food from other regions.

The ride is completely quiet, other than the supply cart trailing behind you, there isn't a single soul in sight. There won't be anyone travelling that much in this rain, anyway.

About an hour later, you make your way out of the farmlands and into the woods. Various trees are snapped in half, possibly due to strong wind, and you can clearly notice the road quality is getting worse. There are potholes everywhere, and some of them are so large that you can probably swim in them. The ride shakes and rumbles as you go.

Before you know it, it's evening, Muphrid sets and Saak rises, then another day passes.

9th April -1C 4983 CY

Last night wasn't so comfortable, you switch between being asleep and jolting awake because the wagon ran into a pothole. But a new day is a new day.

The dwarf driver from yesterday was gone, this time replaced by another dwarf driver who looked very similar to him. These two must be related.

In the morning, you arrive at another small village named Niekumui—population: 96. People here look miserable, their clothes are dirty and they look malnourished, likely because the heavy rain prevented any supplies from going in (And it's still raining, by the way). Many of the building's thatch roofs collapsed from strong winds from earlier.

When the villagers see the supply cart, they quietly form a line from behind. You help them unload the crates, they say their thanks, and you leave.

12th April -1C 4983 CY

The last two days weren't that much different—a lot of ruined farmlands, sleepless nights because of potholes, and a lot of rain.

But for the first time in weeks, it stops raining. You no longer see grey clouds or raindrops, you see Lancea's bright blue sky, with Muphrid on the rise and Arcturus in the west. And for the first time in weeks, you've arrived at an actual city, not a bunch of run-down shacks or farms, a real city, with all the infrastructure it needs.

(IRL Location: Daugavpils, Latvia)

Welcome to Madura.

With a population of around 190,000, Madura is the second largest city in Kerwos, right behind Varti. The buildings here are built in rows instead of standalone huts, and every single street, from the biggest road to the narrowest alley, is paved with bricks. You see horse-drawn trams in operation too, these things were in operation before the Planetary Wars reset all technology, but they've gained a comeback in the last century because people now figure out how this works.

There are a lot of people, more than every village you've passed by combined, and you aren't even in the town square yet. Once in a while, you see foreigners from another country or region too, there are even international shops and restaurants.

Now, what to do? It's still early in the morning, so you might have some time before you go to court.

Mira

The rays of light beamed down on the rabbit queen's face whilst she slowly twitches her drowsy eyes. As the morning stirs, she immediately rises to her feet to gaze out the bright sky... only for it to be ruined when it started raining. "Oh come on weather, really?" She groans to herself whilst she take a moment to groom like an actual rabbit does, before she gets dressed and makes her way down to depart. "Yaaawn~! Good morning my fellow nobles!" She groans if anyone else has awoken. But right now, it appears she's the first to wake up as the sluggish footsteps she made were so silent no one could hear her coming out. Whilst she waits patiently, she does try to get breakfast, something to eat on the journey, so that she doesn't starve until the next stop they make. Even as the rest come down, she doesn't say much for the time being. After that, and when everyone else appears rejuvenated, she makes her way to the front entrance, where a carriage awaits her and the rest of her newfound rebels.

"Once again Janus, despite the uneasiness that we put each other into, thank you for your hospitality." She courtesies to him as the group stands at the front entrance. "I understand that this wasn't an encounter that all six of us hoped it would be, but I hope we can start anew as of now." Once that's done, she turns to Maya whilst she holds out a neatly folded black cloak and presents it to her. "Oh and... Maya. If you're gonna travel around the realm of Lancea from now on... you'll definitely need this." She holds out the neatly folded disguise that the fox lady dropped the previous night. "I cleaned and neatly folded it up for you to save you the trouble. In exchange for preserving your identities, I seriously hope you can play your part in forging an alliance between two worlds, now that we know what you and Renar are. Also, keep that amulet underneath if you don't want your cover being blown to anyone else." She neatly tucks Maya's amulet underneath her disguise after the latter puts it on herself. "There. Everyone ready?" She asks before she climbs the stairs... only to notice that Maya climbed in first without even saying thank you. She wanted to protest, but then Renar thanks for her in advance, causing her to pull back and smile warmly before slowly tilting her head back towards Janus, expression shifting swiftly to a rather stern face in contrast to her lively one a few second ago.

"Long live the rebellion." Were her last words to Janus before she climbs into the carriage and sets off in silence whilst she sits at the front near the driver.

Down the long, exhausting journey, Mira does make attempts to strike conversations with the rest of those so-called 'nobles' to further lighten an otherwise unenthusiastic ride. For Alek, Shugo and Liivi, she did experience moderate success now and then; Of course though, she knew that the two Torilian oddballs sitting behind her would not be in the mood to converse no matter the circumstance. Unlike last time, this time she chose to leave them be, thinking that they might give off weird responses if she attempted to strike one whilst they're at their lowest points. Of course, if Maya does take the time to learn Lancean, Mira hopes that she'd call her, Liivi, Alek or Shugo for help on it, even if it rarely came.

At times she peered out the windows, taking silent moments to think of how devastating last night's storm was on the outer settlements and what the people there would've gone through. She's very lucky not to have experienced this first hand yet. Even as they got out at times to stretch, she couldn't help but wince at the substantial damage made to those villages before going back in, though she's wondering why Renar was pacing around everywhere; He's probably feeling as restless as everyone else. After all like the rest, the lack of sleep was indeed a concern, especially with the occasional potholes waking her up every once in a while.

But at long last, she can finally see the city, their destination after two exhausting days of immobility inside a tightened carriage: Madura.

"Here we are, my fellow prince and princesses. Madura." She announces whilst she hops off first. Thinking that everyone needs to adjust after those brutal hours of being stuck inside, she lets them stretch about and do their own thing for a while, though she immediately catches whiff of Renar's concerned and alert behaviour. Well, not that they'd be involved in something petty but still. He's a funny guy looking out for things on his own. But then she quickly whips out her purse...

"I don't have much to do other than to get brunch." She mutters to herself, eyeing her purse suspiciously before she zips it up and puts it away in her dress pocket. "We'll split either into groups of two or three, I'll let you all decide; Meet up back here in half an hour okay? Unless of course if trouble strikes, then alert the others ASAP. Got it you guys?" Already knowing that Renar and Maya would want to have their own private moments as they take of on their own, she deliberately stays behind to see how the other three would want to group.

Renar

"Ugh..." Last night was too much of a handful to go through. Even as Okaa-san cuddles me to death and still insisted on picking up from where we left off, we did decide to cut it short because of the emotional rollercoaster we had to go through. The next day as the rain gently pitters outside, the first thing I felt were the soft and gentle grasps coming from my mother as I easily catch the scent of her perfume and she slide me into her cuddle. I blushed for a moment, knowing that I'm not used to receiving this amount of affection, before I gently lifted her arms away from my body and sit up, peering at the gloomy sky that awaits the two of us. I then slowly tilt my head whilst she rests lazily, noticing how beautiful she was in the meanwhile whilst she bends and twists about in her sleep before she stirs and opens her golden eyes at me after so long.

"Ohayo gozaimasu, Okaa-san. (おはようございます, お母さん)" I gently say to her, taking great care not to hurt her whilst I carefully exit her affectionate grasp. After that long-deserved sleep, I'm in a totally better mood than last night. Already attaining a long-needed reset, I get up and stretch all of my limbs, from my arms all the way down to my tail. My hood is currently undone which means that my fox ears are now exposed to her, but that's ok as long as the others don't notice. "Sigh... Jōkyō ga yoku naru koto o negatte imasu. Watashi-tachi ga mō koko o hanareru nante shinji rare masu ka? (状況が良くなる事を願ってます. 私たちがもうここを離れるなんて信じられますか, I hope things get better soon. Can you believe that we're leaving this place already?)" I couldn't help but vent out in front of my own mother. Well... I turn back and find her giving me a rather unappealing glare. "Doshitano? (どしたの, What's wrong?) I wasn't wrong was I? Geez..." I sighed as I scratched my head and made my way out the hallway with my disguise frontloaded.

As I got up to brush my teeth and trotted down the stairs with my disguise intact, I catch a few people, mostly Mira and Alek, doing their own thing downstairs whilst they wait. "...Morning." I quietly mumble to Mira, whilst hoping that everyone else has also forgotten whatever happened last night. As much as I want to move on, I hope everyone else feels the same way too. For me, everything else didn't really matter much, as by the time we're all set, I knew it was time to leave. I didn't say much as Mira thanks Janus for all of us, but I had to give him a nod out of respect, even if his motives and ideals don't align with us kitsunes, he does to some degree want us to succeed and save Lancea, it seems. I also notice that Mira has handed Okaa-san back her cloak whilst the latter immediately moves into the back without saying a word, not even a thank you for her. Desperate that she'd get the wrong idea, I locked her gaze with mine before I give soft huff and close my eyes, expression remaining unchanged as I nod...

"Thanks... Mira." I had to reply for Okaa-san, considering that all she cares about now is not getting drenched a second time whilst she moves at the very back of the carriage. Without hesitation, once everyone else has climbed up, I followed suit and sat with her at the back, away from everyone else. Though... as the queen says long live the rebellion, I can't help but wonder how this entire movement would go for us two, now that we're considered the first of this mysterious organisation that she wants to revive herself...

The ride wasn't anything interesting. I mostly remained silent save for the times where I tried to talk to Okaa-san, only for them to die down within a minute. But I can tell that we've been inside this carriage for far too long; Okaa-san appears fidgety, my legs are already cramped and filled with sores. I don't know what the others are going through. They might be experience the same issue as us two, they might not. But I can't be bothered to take note of them especially if they decide to drone on about their own businesses at some points. Along the journey, there were zero opportunities for me to spar on my own, let alone with the rest. It irrigated me so much to the point I started carving various images on the carriage walls to appease my restlessness and much to everyone's obliviousness. Even when we stopped to get breaks, I couldn't find anywhere to train in private; To me it sucks to have my daily habits broken even just for one day. As for mental stimulation... other than going over my useless spellbook and maybe teaching Okaa-san some Lancean the best of our abilities, I couldn't do much either as the day flew by. Especially when we all were woken up multiple times by the sound of carriage bumping into potholes, urgh...

Also, I couldn't help but take note of Okaa-san's mood swings whenever she peers outside to witness the landscape gradually devolving before our eyes. It feels devastating yes. I can kind of understand what she's feeling when she went through the anger and pain of the outskirts... Oh yeah. Did I also mention that neither of us could sleep properly until the day after? It felt horrendous. But... when I heard that Mira finally announces that we're now in the destination that we're supposed to be at, I was finally thankful that this horrendous experience is over. At least... until I wearily step outside and catch a glimpse of...

Yikes. What is this place? I couldn't help but drowsily gaze at the somewhat dreary sight of this Madura city that we're now in. This reminded me of Waterdeep during that one conquest me and the Wildland Shifters had before we took it down via a long and brutal siege. Like last time though as with any city I enter, I quickly whip my hooded head around for any sign of danger just in case. (Perception: 14) Well... being a massive city, I doubt I'd be able to find anything besides something to eat, something to get me to warm up a little and adapt to this place...

Speaking of which, my enhanced sense of smell caused me to sniff as I catch the scent of some food; I then heard my stomach rumble and blush a little. I hope no one besides Okaa-san heard that. I thought to myself. After a day or so travelling without proper food, now's definitely a good time to regain some ever expanding appetites. Maybe, when i immediately scooch away from the group just as an excuse to get something to eat again and possibly either scout from a distance or discuss with Okaa-san.

"I'm gonna get something to eat again. You coming?" I tell Okaa-san as I assume the amulet makes short work of the translations for her. If she does agree, I'll wait for her before we set off to obtain something that we deem is worth eating. When Mira suggests we all meet back in the same spot after half an hour, I nod in response, though deep down I hope we can just stay as groups of two and not three. "Sure thing." I reply before I head off to appeal my ever-rumbling stomach from causing anymore embarrassment. I don't care if anyone else follows us two again, but we really need some time to recover our bearings.

That morning, Shugo has to drag himself out of bed. He hadn't slept well...or meditated well that night. He lazily throws his cloths on, and doesn't both brushing or pulling back his hair. Grabbing his things and the dragon egg, he exits his room dramatically slumped over from lack of rest. His currently untamed shoulder-length hair hangs in front of his face leaving only his nose and mouth visible. He can hear the rain pounding the roof. Ugh. More wet miserable traveling.

He mumbles a half-hearted goodby to Janus as the group prepares to leave. With the rain pouring down, he's definitely not hitting the general store before getting to Madura. Luckily, this morning he seems to have reverted mostly back to his usual self. Sure he's moping, but he doesn't seem as stressed out or depressed as he had the previous day. Plus, those who've traveled with him for a while know...he always mopes when he's sopping wet or when he's hungry. 

He tilts his head in confusion when Mira continuously refers to everyone as princes and princesses. He supposes it makes sense for him, since well he kinda is with his father being the ruler of his country, but he still hates being called one. He hates being called a lord in general. Whatever, he doesn't have the energy to object. He's also still not sure why she's so obsessed with a rebellion. He hopes she doesn't say that in public...he hopes she doesn't say any of that in public... The last thing they need is for someone to hear them talking with a rebel right before their trial.

After being in the wagon for a while, he does perk up a bit. He even pulls his messy hair back after it dries a bit. He engages in light conversation with Mira and the others when they speak with him and, for the most part seems back to his usual self. Though he does go back to acting pathetic and moping about when everyone fails to get sufficient rest during the trip. Not to mention his lack of appetite the previous day has come back to bite him. The growling of his stomach alone would probably be enough to keep everyone awake even without being bounced around.

"FINALLY!" He says when the carriage comes to a halt at their destination. Jumping out, he stretches his arms and back before placing his hands on his hips. Then he raises an eyebrow at Mira, "Maybe don't call us that in public? I mean, I really don't understand why you are even calling us that. Not to mention I really don't want my social status known? No offense." 

After realizing he probably sounded rude, he drops the subject and looks back over the city. "Well it seems like we have some time. Janus said that cat-lady had a shop in this place somewhere. No idea how she'd get here this fast but I may as well try to find it." He pulls the coupon out of his pack, "Next thing I know she'll pull one over on me and say this thing has expired or something. TCH If she does that I'll never step foot in her shop again. Any moron knows the average cost of a shortbow is only 25gp." It's true, the one she's selling was grossly overpriced. However, if she does accept the discount, it would be one heck of a deal.

"Oh, you want to travel in groups? hmmm whatever we do, we need a designated meeting place, even if we just use the courthouse..." His stomach growls... "Eheheh, I'll have to get food after I go find that shortbow. Uh...anyone want to come with?"

When the sounds of rain gently stir Maya from her tosses and turns, she opens her golden eyes to find her son already awake yet still feeling snug in the comforts of her arms. She smiles back. Last night she had been dreaming that her son was sleeping peacefully in her arms, and to wake up knowing that it came true is astounding even for her standards. "Aww. Ohayo Gozaimasu, musuko yo. Heehee! (おはようございます、息子よ, Good morning, my son)" She giggles whilst her tail wags playfully and she plants a gentle kiss on her son's forehead. To wake up and feel her only child softly sink into her affectionate cuddle is a once in a blue moon moment for her ever since the loss of her daughter. Even as her son rises and distractedly looks back at her, she makes no move to get up on her own accord. At least until he gives off a rather blunt remark about leaving this place and calling it dreaded, causin her to give off a rather irritated glare with her eyes shut again. When her son leaves in a panic, her massive tail stops shaking and her fox ears twitch in annoyance. "Sigh... Kare wa kesshite kawari masen, musuko yo... (彼は決して変わりません、息子よ… He never changes, my son...)" She mutters to herself as she finally arises from her bed and gets dressed... And finds that her cloak is missing. She starts to panic, wondering what would happen if she were to walk in her own foreign kimono of hers. Didn't her son have it just now?

Where did he put it... No... she snagged it back from him and forgot where she left it last night. This isn't good. Hurriedly, she exits her dorm and frantically searches the entire mansion whilst her paranoia sticks into her brain for the entire morning; Because of this she ended up skipping breakfast and missed out on saying good morning to the others. Now what? What is she to do to survive in this world whilst exposed? Thoughts on how she might end up despite Renar and the Lancean group's defenses swirl and overcrowd her brain with worries. Her mood never changed until the time when it's time to leave and say goodbye to Janus. Like Renar, Maya says and does absolutely nothing, her worrisome frown remaining until Mira finishes apologizing and hands her the one items that she has been looking for: Her massive disguise. Sheepishly and not knowing what to say, she receives it and immediately dons it before Mira starts tucking her amulet inside her disguise to make her look less like the outsider she is today. 

A... Arigato... (ありがと) She wanted to say to Mira, but then immediately feels the morning rain pelting her nose. Instinctively, she bolts off before she can even say thank you to the rabbit queen, not that she wants to be rude but she just didn't want to be wet. Either way, as much as her son is glad to finally make progress and move somewhere else, she too is relived, but also frightened, considering that from her onwards, the journey is going to be ever more perilous for Torilians like the two.

If there was even one word to describe the kitsune queen's experience throughout the entire 2-day ride, it would be 'abysmal'. The entire time Maya became queasy; On the breaks she'd often hop out of the carriage just to vomit or lean against the carriage walls whilst her head spins. Being one of the quietest warriors in the misfit group, it didn't come to a surprise that the kitsune queen isn't the type to initiate conversations with the rest either. Also, the view after the storm was disastrous indeed. As Renar would have thought, everytime she takes a pained look to witness the disastrous scenery, her facial expressions morphed into one hundred negative feelings at once, up to the point where she wonders if her emotions have started to fully manipulated her entire brain and mindset. Not to mention that this is the literal first time that she's suffering from sleep deprivation; Usually kitsunes like her can tolerate low hours of sleep, but this one wasn't one she could handle, especially with everyone else groaning in pain and the occasional outside noises and bumps startling her every time. Ever glance at Renar fidgeting is also something that worries her. It's a miracle he hasn't gone on a rampage due to his restless nature.

Seeing that there's nothing else to do, she does intrude Renar's personal space every once in a while during the first night to again pick up from where they started. And somehow, she made astounding progress despite the discomfort of the entire night on the journey. (CHA: 18) The next day after that, Maya tries to take it up a notch; She asks her son to write something in his hidden-from-everyone-else spellbook in Lancean, just for her to try and make out their language if she can. Though, after everything that she went through on the previous night (INT: Nat 1), it seemed that her concentration was far worse than when she started the journey...

But at long last, when she saw a city that presumably is in fact their destination, a wave of relief washes over her weary face. Stepping out sorely and slowly, Maya begins to descend from the carriage when Shugo yells out loud, causing her to fall face first on the floor after she trips over the carriage's stairs in shock. Thankfully unlike the previous clumsy moments she learnt to right herself immediately instead of revelling in the embarrassment for even a few seconds. However, her concern multiplies by a factor of 5 when Mira still insists on addressing the group as princes and princesses. In Toril, being addressed as such especially at the wrong time can lead to multiple assassination attempts and ambushes, so she hopes to avoid this mistake in this world if she can.

"Mira-san." She sternly warns her as she too agrees with Shugo; Lesson number 2 about maintaining your royal status. "Don't... say titles for us... out loud in... puburicu. This how nobles... get... assa... sinatu... in buroadu day-ruight [This is how nobles get assassinated in broad daylight]." Whilst her Lancean is still extremely broken, her pronunciation has somewhat gotten better after two nights ago. Pretty soon she'll be able to speak it fluently in no time, albeit with noticeable difficulty. Slowly, however, she takes a moment to scan her surroundings unamused, wondering what this entire place is like at times. She does this for a solid five minutes until her son calls out to her saying that he's going to get lunch.

"Uh? H-hai! Wait up!" Maya jolts when Renar almost dashes away from her distance. Knowing that she also needs to meet up somewhere, she figures that maybe the town centre itself... maybe it might be a good place to regroup... if only she didn't stray too far to say it out loud, she realizes. Unless if their duo becomes a trio, they're probably gonna be sitting ducks in the midst of wherever they're eating unless if someone keeps a close eye on them.

"Renar. Keep and eye out on them, please. I don't know where we're supposed to meet up when we're done." She nervously shivers to her son in their native tongue and not the Lancean that she doesn't know; The trial is today, yet Maya isn't fully able to comprehend on how to defend herself. "I... I havu... lot to say. But... I don't know..."

Alex isn't sure if he's disappointed or not when Janus is nowhere to be seen in the morning. Still, he has a feeling that the jackal knows exactly what's going on inside his house at all times, so he still says goodbye to the empty house regardless, waving to the door as if Janus was standing in front of him. Which looks pretty silly, but it's pretty obvious that Alex doesn't often think about how he looks to others. 

Part of him is relieved to find out that someone else took care of moving Cezars, though he does have to worry about whether or not he caused trouble or even escaped while on the road. He's quite worried about the genasi, not just because he's incredibly dangerous, but also because of the things he's learned about him over the past few days. Oh well, at least he doesn't have to worry about keeping him under control while they tend to the needy along the road to Madura. Alex is always the first to start handing out food to those who line up by the wagon, always wearing a big smile on his face in attempt to raise spirits. It doesn't even occur to him that this is the perfect way to start gaining favor with those who might be voting for the next ruler. If it had he would have brought it up to Mira. As it is though, he is too caught up in making sure that everyone there gets a good share of food. 

He attempted to talk to their dwarven drivers, but it seems conversation is short lived during the journey. When they arrive in Madura, he looks around with wide eyes. It seems like forever since he's been around so many people. After all, he grew up in the country. 

When everyone starts talking about what do do before the trial, Alex pauses. It seems Shugo wants to find that shop... and Mira as well as Renar want food. Maya will likely stay with Renar so... well that leaves Alex to go by himself. "Ah... okay. I think I should go check in at the Church. I want to talk to the priest about Cezars, and perhaps the trial as well. I don't think we should have anything to worry about, but the more people who know our side of the story the better right?" Plus he also wants to go get some advice from the elders. It's been too long since he's spoken to anyone at the Church. "How about we meet at the food stands? I don't think I'll take too long..." He trails off as he realizes Renar and Maya already ran off. Well, that's alright. Renar sounded hungry anyways. 

He looks to Liivi, "Do you have plans? Getting food sounds good but... I should head to the Church sooner rather than later just to make sure it gets taken care of. Still, we need a meeting place so we can talk about the trial before we go.... well, you don't have to talk about that if you don't want to. hahah, this is kinda something that Shugo, Renar, Maya and I have to deal with thanks to Cezars." 

After their meeting place is settled, Alex heads to the church. 

Liivi slept well through the night and was up early. Though evidently not as early as everyone. The rain was a bit of a disappointment, but she was fine with not seeing Janus. He wasn't likely to have been much help to the group at this point. Seeing Mira working to get some breakfast she would lend a hand. And once everyone is ready, she goes with the group outside the house.  She's a bit confused as the others wave, even speak to Janus, despite his absence. it is evidently a custom that they don't have in Nemos. She then goes with the group to meet the wagon in the town square. 

She allows everyone to get into the covered wagon and find a spot then selects hers last.  She remains quiet and doesn't really initiate any conversations during the journey. But she is more than willing to respond to others who speak with her.  The rest of the time her eyes scan the passing scenery, trying to simply enjoy seeing these new places despite the dreary weather.  

Whenever there is a brief stop, Liivi makes the most of it. Stretching and moving about in the time available. While in the wagon, she remains comfortably still. 

She is happy when they finally arrive in Madura, and as she hops out, she scans the place they are in. It takes her a moment to realize that they are splitting up. Renar and Maya have already left.  Shugo is off to buy a bow. Alex is off to the Church.  She responds to Alex first. "I would be glad to go to the Church with you.  But perhaps I should defer to Mira."  She looks over at the rabbit woman. "Do you have a preference? Shop or Church?" She waits for her decision. "Then we'll meet to get something to eat after." 

Mira

Mira jolts when both Shugo and Maya harshly warn her about calling them prince and princesses in their face and out in the open. Lancea is a fairly safe place, so the thought of her being a primary target because of her status didn't cross her mind up until now. "Um... s-sure. I'll... I'll keep that in mind, Maya. So sorry..." Thankfully her moment of dread rebounds instantly when Alek reveals his intention to go to church and Shugo insists on buying a bow for himself; Liivi doesn't have a lot in mind judging by the fact she's keen on trailing with the former. That was fast. She thought these stragglers would actually take their time on deciding where to go, so it seems that all of them minus Liivi have something to deal with first. "Heh, sure thing, handsome. I ain't stopping you on doing what you need to do." She replies whilst she scratches her head (with her arms this time). "Okay. It seems Alek and Liivi will... *AHEM* It seems you two are together. Look after each other ok?" She gives both Liivi and Alek a nudge before they head off. "You know those two that already left are ten steps ahead on that matter?" She bluntly replies with a smirk in response to her suggestion about meeting up for food. However, her stomach sinks as the next thought that comes into her mind is the dreaded tribulation. She kind of knows where and how to stand with the so-called nobles, but what if it isn't enough? And she's wondering, especially for Maya, would their defenses be sufficient to avoid being on the wrong side, to avoid making that vicious genasi the captured appear innocent? What about Liivi too? She definitely had no idea what those four were up to, so how would she help defend them if it were up to her?

For now though, she tries not to focus too much as she snaps back to the present. "Hmm... I guess... there's only one person left for me then." She glances over to Shugo, wondering where he's gonna drift off to. "Which means... heh. I wonder how those two will react this time when we all decide to pitch in on their breakfast? Well... as long as us four can regroup to eat with them I guess... unless if you want to- ULP!" Her stomach growls loudly in embarrassment, but she's determined to put both the trial (yes she remembers about this stupidity last minute) and her hunger aside... or try to, before she then turns tails and heads with Shugo, noticing a trace of irritation forming on his face when blurts out something about a discount. "Well then... shall we get going? You seem pretty irritated though about... I hope I heard it right... about a coupon. Is something up?" 

Renar

My fox ears twitched after overhearing their meetup plans from a distance. Right. So they want to meetup and interrupt our morning recovery rather than to beat around the bush and head to the church that Alek is heading to... wherever it is located? I couldn't help but sigh in annoyance before turning to my mother's hidden ear... "Okaa-san. They want to catch up to us to eat together, which means our private time is limited." I had to whisper. I mean, if we can quickly sort out how we can address the situation at hand, it wouldn't be much of a big deal. But we'll definitely need to make our conversations quick. 

I hear Okaa-san complaining about how she might not be heard, how the lack of opportunities to learn Lancean would hinder her in this unnecessary trial that's scheduled to be held today. I squint with a pang of guilt when I realised she's kind of right. Even Mira does stand up for her, she wasn't here for the most part up until we saved her in that Icewind Dale-like Cave. I mean, I know they'll pressure her to speak up when she'd choose to remain silent; I'm definitely not a public speaker. Even though I suck at this, I need to formulate something fast if we don't want Stupid Rixi to get his way. But right now, I couldn't help but respond to her in the same, apprehensive tone as she just expressed...

"I know you have a lot to say; I have a lot to say on my part too, but..." I swivel my head back to make sure no one is trailing-slash-eavesdropping on our concerns again. "Food and quiet spot first. Then we can go through what you want me to say in your defense for the dreaded trial. Our daily training can wait..." Yeah. Forget sparring for now, it seems. We need to get that unnecessary tribulation out of the way first. But how would I be able to record what Okaa-san might be able to tell me without relying on my two books?

Quote from PyromaniIsDeadThankGod>>

Yikes. What is this place? I couldn't help but drowsily gaze at the somewhat dreary sight of this Madura city that we're now in. This reminded me of Waterdeep during that one conquest me and the Wildland Shifters had before we took it down via a long and brutal siege. Like last time though as with any city I enter, I quickly whip my hooded head around for any sign of danger just in case. (Perception: 14) Well... being a massive city, I doubt I'd be able to find anything besides something to eat, something to get me to warm up a little and adapt to this place...

Perception failed

From the corner of his eyes, Renar sees a shadowy figure watching them, and half a second later, they're gone. Are his eyes playing tricks on him or is someone following them? Who knows.

You walk further into the city and find yourself in a market, people are setting up their stalls for the day. Most of them are selling food and personal items, but you do notice that there's a lack of anyone selling fruits and vegetables, likely because the cyclone destroyed most of their harvest for this Summer—nonetheless, people seem to be cheerful, children are playing in the street, there is music coming from the various pubs and houses. They're still oblivious to the damage done in the countryside.

And among one of the stalls, you see a familiar face, the only thing worth saving in this accursed world, the first person you've ever interacted with in Perkwunos—Janina.

"Oh my God! Hey!" Janina waves you over, you haven't seen this halfling in quite a while, but it seems like the damage Cezars did to her is permanent. You see a walking crutch in the background, and she's moving much slower than usual.

"Seems like you made a new friend too!" She extends her hand towards Mira and Liivi, "I'm Janina, your friend saved me from Cezars, and now I owe them unlimited food for life!" She smiles, "Grab a seat, I'll cook some pelmeni for you."

About ten minutes later, she returns with six plates of pelmenis—a type of dumpling, a sour cream dipping sauce, buttered corn on the cob, and a glass of kvass—for Mira, she gets a vegetarian filling instead of a typical beef or pork.

"It's been a while... So, how are you guys? How's this little adventure of yours going?" She asks as she chops up some vegetables for a stock.

As Renar sort of makes up a plan in response to Maya's concerns, she trembles a little when she notices him whipping his head to the right. Did he spot something? Because now he's wearing a rather paranoid expression and it's not even about the lack of privacy this time. "Hmm? Doshitano (どしたの)? You see something?" She asks him quietly such that no one can hear her, half-not expecting a response from him in the process. Well, not that it matters because by now, Shugo, Alek, Mira and Liivi have seemed to change their minds about splitting up and have now caught up to the Sword Coast duo. So much for privacy as her son wished. "Eh? Didn't you all... go somewhere?" She asks them; Regardless of their response though, Maya's short attention directs her into sniffing the upcoming food that awaits her. And with every scent her sensitive fox nose is picking up, she is indeed starving. In fact it seems the entire group has caught the attention of a certain halfling... who recognises them? Huh? Has her son, Alek and Shugo met her before? She barely recognizes her, as with Mira and Liivi's cases. In fact, the only thing that's fixated on her mind is... something that she cannot make out in words yet. "Peru... mani...?" She inquisitively tries to pronounce. Sore wa nanidesu ka? (それは何ですか, What is that?) That's a strange sounding dish for the kitsune indeed. At least until Renar explains that it's literally just gyoza. "Oh! Gyoza?" She stares as her hidden fox ears twitch in curiosity. However, turning to the halfling's crippled state, she held her hands to her mouth in horror. What happened to her? If she had the courage to do so, she would've attempted to heal whatever injury is causing that much suffering. These sorrowful thoughts stayed in her for a while until the scent of her meal prompts her to focus on it again.

"Ita..." Maya wanted to blurt out in happiness, but then she bites her tongue last minute, knowing that Japanese is taboo especially in public places. Sighing, she forgoes her thanks and eats in silence whilst she savours the 'gyoza' that the halfling had prepared for the team... And wow. Her face beams for a solid five seconds straight as her tongue is raptured in its foreign flavour. Ara ara! Oishii! Totemo daisukidesu! (あら あら！ 美味し! とても大好きです! Oh my! Delicious! I love it so much!) She delightfully squeals in her thoughts, before rapidly chowing down at least 10 individual bites for herself to fill her empty stomach. That moment doesn't last long when Renar, her ever paranoid son, starts to whip his head around again suspiciously; She catches his alert behaviour in three seconds flat after digesting her last piece.

"Uh... Renar-kun...?" She asks Renar confused; her nervousness increasing slightly upon noticing his shivers and reaches out to comfort him somewhat. Though again, she doesn't know what her son is referring to. And if she was there, she definitely doesn't remember who they are.

Renar

I jump slightly when the rest swiftly catch up to the two us and turn my head back to them in disgust. Damn it. I guess me and Okaa-san won't be able to sort this out by ourselves whilst we have our meal. I had to roll my eyes, as if I already knew we both couldn't escape this. "Alright, fine. We'll eat as a group as you guys wish, provided that none of you spill the beans in public-" My mind then suddenly has this sharp feeling that we're being watched; I whip my head to my right again and notice someone... someone that I cannot make out... a stalker! I wanted to alert the rest but before I could, that figure vanished out of the blue. My arms twitched in irritation. Who was that? And what do they want from us now? 

Okaa-san then interrupts my deep thinking and snaps me back to reality; I gasped slightly as I turn to her gaze. "N-nothing. I c-couldn't see who it was. J-just... just keep walking. And no Japanese please!" I tell Okaa-san with a noticeable stutter. Not even 10 minutes into stepping foot into the city and my nerves have been raised again... urgh. Thankfully, the promise of delicious food was enough to distract for a while as I couldn't help but sniff the air. However, I did recognize a familiar sight on my end... Wait... the gyoza lady?! Janina? I suddenly quivers upon meeting her gaze. I wasn't expecting her to show up again in this place.

"Hey. Uh... yeah. I-It's been a while... y-y-you've changed quite a bit... um... Wait..." I gasp when I saw the poor lady hobbling painfully unlike last time when we, minus the two extra ladies of course, saved her from Stupid Rixi. I had a hunch that the next time we'd met she would be in a worse off position, and it turns out to be true; She's not okay especially considering the last time we met... Clenching my fist as tiny electric sparks fizzle around them, I can't help but grit in anger when my head flashbacks to the fight we had against Stupid Rixi, how she almost got abducted by him and ended up in this state. This baka... I hope during the trial that these people will force him to atone for what he did to her; Maybe she can assist us in the trial later; She's seen our good side, so trying to imagine her defending Stupid Rixi whilst we saved her butt is absolute insanity, just like that guy himself. Glancing to Okaa-san, I can tell she wants to restore her back to full health. Thing is, I'm not even sure if these injuries can be healed with simple magic; If neither of us lost our overwhelming abilities like in Sword Coast or Japan, we would've been able to do so many things on our own...

Like last time though, I didn't hesitate to sit back down on an empty chair next to Okaa-san but WAY FAR AWAY from the rest; Sick and tired of the queen pushing us two to socialize, I blatantly ignored her atrocious remark. When the delicious Gyoza (in my terms) is served, I can easily pick up Okaa-san's confusion. "It's just gyoza, Maya-san. And it tastes just like it." I clarify to her before I ate in silence, forgoing my thanks as I amusedly witness my mother's mood turn 180 degrees after tasting her first Gyoza-turned-Pelmeni. I mean, to be fair mother... Other than the wording, the food is thereabouts cooked the same. Sort of. I couldn't help but chuckle to myself. I bet even she can't help her own tail shake in excitement after savouring that bite of hers. But then, after I just barely finished my last serving... another thought completely vanquishes my current train of thought. And it's a horrid one for sure.

Hang on... if the Gyoza lady is here, then that means... I suddenly felt the numerous gyoza clumps that I took into my poor stomach sink to the depths of my intestines. I can't believe it... I thought for sure after we parted ways we wouldn't meet until much later. Well I mean I didn't expected to run into her again, but now the thought of running into those annoying goons again still infuriates me when a memory reminds me...

Quote from ACNSuphalak >>

 

"The hell? You can't just leave yourself here! It's too dangerous!" Elvīns shouts, but he backs down immediately. "Fine... have it your way, then." He nods along with Alex and sighs, before walking to the bedroom, unlocks the door, and grabs the three FART members by the scruff of their neck. 

"Wait, Elvīns, dude, what are you doing?" Eerin says, her arm and tail dangling in the air.

"Saving you rascals. Come on, we don't have all day!" He opens the door and toss the three hostages to the back of their cart. Eerin, Leonīds, and Aloizs are safe.

Exiting my head, I whip my head left and right again every minute or so whilst I continue to finish up my scraps. "Keep your eyes peeled." I tell everyone sternly. "If this lady is here, then I'm pretty sure the rest are too. I swear I saw someone trailing behind us just now." I withdraw slightly when I realised I forgot to specify, and I know the Leopard girl and Mira have no idea on who I'm mentioning to. But Okaa-san, Alek and Shugo should well and clear: The People's idiots and those... three rascals we beated up must be around too. I know this... because this gyoza lady... she last travelled with them. And... Stupid Rixi's idiotic teammates that held the queen hostage...

Which means... at any possible time, whether it is before, during or after that stupid trial, we might end up getting caught in their crossfire... again.

Mira

As Mira was about to head off with Shugo and split ways, a more convenient thought pops up last minute. And because she has a sharp tongue, the next thing her brain knew is that these word immediately flew out of her mouth in a split second. "Actually... come to think about it..." Mira says last minute to Alek, Liivi and Shugo. "Uh... um... I was just saying... um... How about we all eat together first, then we split up and do whatever we need to do? That seems like a more convenient thing than to just drift off with hungry stomachs... sorry..." She was so engrossed with this entire mind change that she just happened to try and convince the others to catch up with Renar and Maya just so they can't find an excuse to act anti-social, especially when they sit so far away from the rest on the same table. "Oh come on, don't act so lonesome when we're eating together!" She taunts the two. In fact, what piques her curiosity more than ever is that they know this particular halfling when they all settle down, with the rabbit queen sitting as close to the other four unlike the two oddballs...

"Ah! So you know these four more than us ladies, eh? And they saved you? No wonder why they kept telling me that they saved someone from this... fire bozo. It was you, huh?" Mira responds with a handshake in return, unaware that Maya does not in fact recognise her. "I'm Mira Laurits... It's also a pleasure to meet you. And..." She gestures to Liivi; She actually wanted to introduce herself as the Duchess of Platone, but after what Maya said, she had to reel in her silver tongue. "This leopard lady right here is Liivi... from Nemos. (I hope I got that right)" she whispers after an awkward pause. "It's an honour to meet you." Of course, she had to dig into the (vegetarian) dumplings right after the introductions were gotten out of the way. "Oh wow! This is so good! I've never had this in my entire life before! How do you make something so yummy?!" She gleefully exclaims with her mouth full whilst she nibbles on her uniques servings... at least until she notices Janina's current injury and her rabbit ears perk up.

"Oh gosh. What happened to you? Did something happen that I'm not aware about?! Did it happen when they saved you?! Please fill me in! I don't want you suffering any more! Do you need any help on your end while we're at it?" She had to ask her in shock. To see her in this state pains her as much as not being able to proactively revive the rebellion, gun for queen and more other things that she would like to do in the long run. What makes the situation evermore tense is that now Renar's acting odd again for some reason. Hasn't he calmed down by now? Or is it the fact that the carriage ride made him all the more moody than before? She cannot tell at all. "Keep your eyes peeled? For who? Context?" She asks Renar in confusion. What does he mean by that? Out of all the people she can deduce, she can only make out some spies, assassins or other people eavesdropping on their conversations for whatever reason, and somehow her mind flashes back to the people that held her hostage down at the icy cave too, but for now she remains puzzled.

Liivi smiles at Mira as the rabbit woman introduces her to Janina. "Correct. Nemos," she replies before extending her own hand to the halfling. "It is good to meet you. Especially if you are a friend of my companions." She is quite eager to try the pelmenis and finds them rather good. "Thank you. This is quite delicious Janina."  She does try the dipping sauce, which adds an interesting hint of flavor. But the corn goes neglected.  

While interested in knowing more about what happened to this woman, she focuses in when Renar makes his cryptic remarks about 'others' and suggests he saw someone following them. She tries not to be obvious but does glance around to see if she can see anything. (Perception: 21) 

After a moment of thinking, Shugo realizes something as Mira suddenly decides that she's to hungry to shop with him. "You know what, the shopping district or whatever is probably near wherever food is. So we might as well follow those two. Haha, If something catches our eye before we find the cat's shop then I don't see a problem grabbing a bite before I get my prize." He waves the coupon in front of him before shoving it back in his pocket.

Perception for seeing anything interesting, and also locating the shop: 5

The elf keeps an eye out for the traveling shop as he walks briskly to keep up with Mira and catch up with Renar and Maya. His stomach growls, and as if on cue, a familiar voice calls out. His head snaps around to see it's owner. Pelmeni lady! He grins, "Hey! It's great to see you!" Momentarily forgetting about the bow, he eagerly grabs a chair and sits down. "Sounds great to me! Thank you so much! Heheh."

Shugo immediately digs in when Janina passes him a plate. The entire helping is gone nearly as quickly as it was cooked. He looks up with his mouth still full as Janina asks how things are going. For a moment the food suddenly feels like a rock in his stomach. Things have been terrible, but he's not about to say that to this woman. He swallows, the food in his mouth, and regains his grin. "Oh, things are going as well as they can be I suppose. We are here for a trial you know. ...hey speaking of which, are you going to be a witness for us?" He'd assume so, she was the entire reason they'd ended up fighting Cezars after all.