Oh. So this feline lady actually has something to do with the rebellion? To anyone else it may have something mundane, but to Mira, seeing that her extended bloodline is or was part of that was enough to pique her despite the anxiety she is experiencing. And then she hears the tabaxi raise her voice a little. She's frustrated, yes. But even so, that doesn't mean she should attract unwanted attention in this place. The harengon gestures to Liivi, though if the latter did notice, her arm is literally vibrating. "N-n-not so loud, my lady. I understand your frustration, but you don't want to end up dealing with a bunch of angry people don't you?" She warns with numerous voice cracks with her Welsh accent. "But... I... I get it. I know what you mean. I just think that now's not the best time to talk about this... t-that's all." Her heart is racing in a frightful way. The shared rebellion interest is something Mira will definitely come back to. But not for now. She has already engaged in a small chit chat with this woman. Maybe Shugo and Alex would be able to help bolster her confidence a little...
At least, until she also picks up Liivi voicing her interest about the artefact. Oh yeah. That's the thing holding the unstable group in one piece isn't it? Maybe she did talk to the right person after all. "Really? You're after the artefact too?" Mira gawks before she chuckles. "Well then it seems like you've came to the right place! Those four over there, they'd probably know more about this stuff than I do. So if you want to delve deeper into this mysterious trinket, look no further than... uh... them. Ahaha!" She glances to the four of them with a forced laugh. And then back. "Uh, yeah. You came from far away, just like those guys, huh? I mean... I kinda live down the road from here so uh..."She scratches her head as Liivi distracts her about how she dealt with the storm scenario. "Man you're a brave one, being able to outrun something like this. My mother would kill me if she heard that I tried to do what you did, let alone saw me drenched like how you are right now."
Back to the artefact subject though, Mira is now doing her best to gather the common interest between the tabaxi and the group so that maybe she can find better ground with her. At least this is better than no similar interest, she guesses. "In all seriousness, um, I get that you don't like dealing with strangers. But believe me: Those four saved my life. I was held hostage by some group of idiots who apparently decided to mess with those four until they came. I kinda of owe them in a way despite my nobility, heheh. They're nice people. I don't sense any ill intent from them, yet. In fact, if they really are after it, then this might be your one shot to know more about it, even though we've had some tensions along the way. I'm sure you'll make a great teammate if you're interested." She takes a moment to squint at the oddball pair a second time; They obviously don't fit her category of 'nice people' judging from their recent behaviour. "I mean, those two I called, Shugo and Holy Boy? They're very nice for sure. I've talked to them several times along the way since I got rescued. Their ambitions, the way the perceive the world, and even their looks, honestly, not that I am one to judge. But I'm sure you'd be able to get along with them. Not sure about the other two though; I call them the oddball pair. One is incredibly anti-social and refuses to take off his hood. The other one, also anti-social, can't speak properly and looks like she's sleepwalking, seeing that her eyes are uncomfortably shut. But she seems nice though. Oh and... did I mention she's not taking off her hood either?"
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The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance) Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Shugo raises his eyebrows when Mira brings his attention to the hooded tabaxi lady. Wow that little rabbit really is a social butterfly. "Hello there." He says in a friendly voice, though he has an obviously foreign accent. "Another fellow traveler eh? Heh, seems that artifact thing really is popular." He squints at nothing. Man, with everything that's happened lately it's been so long since he'd even thought about thing he'd almost forgot it had been the reason he'd come to this blasted country to begin with. He falls silent for a moment as the chatterbox of a rabbitfolk continues to spout words to this total stranger. Whatever, it's not like it really matters. So long that she doesn't go spouting off to every other random person that he's a noble then she can chat to anyone she likes.
He laughs when Mira starts talking about Renar and Maya. "Oh come now! Renar's not that bad! He's just been in a bit of a mood lately....though even I'm not sure what's up with him and Maya. Up until we met her that kid was terrified of girls! Hahah!" He grins at the tabaxi, "Anyway, like Little Miss Bunny said, my name is Shugo. Shugo Suzuki." He nonchalantly holds out a hand for her to shake.
Shugo's average height for an elf and lean in build. He's currently clad in completely black cloths and a burnt orange overcoat. A dragon hilted sword hangs on his left hip, and he carries a rather bulky pack on his back. His raven black hair is pulled back in a messy wolftail, and his gold-orange eyes are partially obscured by his bangs. Thoroughly drenched as he is, he manages to look rather miserable despite his friendly smile.
Whether or not she shakes his hand, he continues. "Honestly I'm not sure searching for that artifact is really worth it. Heh! Maybe it's cursed as we seem to be running into all sorts of trouble. Not to mention it seems like that artifact may be becoming involved in a lovely war of politicians.... Anyways, have you been here long? I know you're clearly not from around here, but do you at least know if these stores have good prices? Or how affordable the tavern is? If not no worries. We'll find out eventually." He rubs the back of his neck and glances at Paulis's tower, then to the rest of the party, then back at the stranger. Why is he bothering with this conversation again? Ah whatever, it's best to be on good terms with those who are after the same thing as you are.
The tabaxi nods as the rabbit-woman urges caution when she was getting louder. Of course, she had already realized that and dropped the topic. She will have to remember that she is not among her own people and needs to be a bit more circumspect. She tries to take in all the other information as well. Shugo and... Holy Boy? Holiboy? Was that a name or a title? And the other two who would not remove their hoods? They are all looking for the artefact while they also had rescued this rabbit-woman noble from captivity. There must be quite a story there.
"A teammate?" she asks as the woman mentions it. But then she turns as one of the others approaches. She reaches out with a furred paw when he offers his hand then shakes it. "I am Liivi Orav. Pleased to meet you Shugu Suzuki." She notes the accent and turns again to the rabbit-woman. "I believe that I am not from quite as far away as this gentleman. I hail from northwest of here. Nemos." And then again looking back at Sugu she adds, "I'm afraid I only got to Menkalde this morning."
"A war of politicians? I am not surprised. The artefact seems to be very important." She pauses a moment, looking about at the others. It seems best that she change the subject. "If you are looking for an affordable tavern, I could certainly join you for that. I could probably use a brief respite here."
Staring anxiously into the distance, possibly at the towering image of Paulis' location or somewhat, Maya at first lost track of her surroundings as she fades out of reality; Everything in plain sight of mama fox had seem to turn into a blur. Minus her son standing impatiently in front of her as he charts the course. After about five minutes though, she hallucinates about the colossus again; How it stomped on Alex and told her something incoherable. She jolts back with a gasp, thinking her son might have disappeared. He's still here. But now she receiving an awkward look from him. Panicking suddenly, she whips her head around for a brief distraction. Something that could maybe take her mind off this stupid nightmare... and that's when she hears Renar snarling in anger plus a loud, conversive voice coming from her right. Huh? Did something just trigger him? Could it be... Fixing her shut eyes onto the newcomer, she deduces that this might not be someone that... no, she definitely hasn't met her. With the way that feline girl is draped, it almost reminds her of her son's disguise, except without the ears being revealed. Another person to keep the facade up on, perhaps. Turning to her son, she gestures him to wait in the same spot as she walks off, unaware that this was enough to actually unnerve him.
Slowly, with a lot of hesitation, Maya takes small steps as she closes the gap between herself, Shugo, Mira and... whoever they are talking to. To the tabaxi, the woman, just as Mira described her, has a massive black gown draped over her well endowed body and a hoodie covering most of her long, ginger hair too. Almost as if she might be mistaken for an undercover agent. Right now, they cannot be seen, but underneath her disguise lies a pair of white fox ears on her head, as well as a single white fox tail swaying about behind her back. She's probably wondering how she's able to navigate with her eyes closed, because looking at her first glance, it seems that she could have bashed her head into so many things and people without having a line of vision. If not counting Mira who currently stands at her lower hip in size, Maya appears to be the shortest of the four, as she only stands as tall as Shugo's shoulders. Her entire outfit, like Shugo, is absolutely soaked, from her disguise all the way to her bare feet. It's clear that like the rest, she's been through the same thing as them, let alone the person she wants to talk to (or try to in this case). Now that she's closing in, though, her stained, red lips open almost unseen as she reaches out with a hand with what appears to be sharp, red fingernails.
"Ano..." She weakly speaks, only to withdraw when the same dreadful feeling that Mira is receiving strikes her. But then she approaches her slightly to ask again, clawed hands making a series of gestures that the hooded tabaxi would have trouble understanding. "Um... uh... I... My... son... My son. Dokko desu... you see him? I..." She again shudders in broken Lancean, only to be cut off by Renar when she feels him holding her left arm. What does he want now? Other than to actually speak up for her?
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Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod) Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic) Maya Kurosaki- Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time Shijiro Otsune- Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan) Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Seriously, this is getting us nowhere... whatever this town is, I thought we'd all come to an unanimous decision to go get some supplies, get better items, get food, have a break and then we'd split off. Ah whatever. Not that it matters anyways. I quickly pull out my tiny notebook that I haven't pulled out in ages to scribble key updates of our stupid journey, plus some potential problems we might encounter in the future such as... Hmm... other than a world disaster, our identities being revealed and Stupid Rixi, the clash between that dutchy whose name I've forgotten and the stuck up army... There are a lot of things going on right now that I wished they didn't exist. Besides, I wonder who's supposed to be in charge of carrying Stupid Rixi? I mean we can't just drag him face first on the floor, even though he deserves to be treated like so. No wait... let me remedy that thought, especially when Okaa-san jumpscares me with a shrill gasp that pierced my hidden, sensitive ears. I shoot an awkward look at her in response. What was that all about? Why the sudden gasp? Did she actually envision something disastrous? Is she envisioning my demise? Someone else's? This world's maybe? She's gesturing towards me... to stay? Where is she going? Did something catch her eyes at this point?
Or was it... someone? Because when the minute flies, the next thing I observe are... Shugo and the bunny girl talking to a stranger? Geez... Wait, did I just hear that she might be joining us in the search to save this planet and the artefact?! I turn my head away from Okaa-san, grit my teeth in absolute anger and snarl especially when Shugo mocks me in plain sight. Great. Just what I needed; We're doing ok with just the five of us. We don't need another unknown person travelling alongside us just because they share this common interest do they?! My ability to befriend others in this world has already long been hampered. I stare suspiciously at the woman whom they're talking to. She's cloaked just like us two. And soaked. Only difference I can see is that her ears are sticking out, plus the fact that she looks like a leopard from my eyes. Wait... that greatsword... it's huge. She must be a super strong one, then. Already, as I shut my eyes and contemplate on who my supposed new member might turn out to be, I immerse myself in my head, thinking that Alex may choose a different sparring partner after all. Plus the fact that she might have the guts to rip out all of us if we anger her in some way. I really don't want that to happen for sure...
And then I hear another voice. Only this time it sounds incredibly hoarse and broken... Okaa-san... Crap. I suddenly open my eyes only to notice she isn't where I thought she'd be standing; In response I raced over in shock and to where she is now before grasping her left arm in desperation; I need to remedy what she's trying to say fast, and correctly too... "Uh... sorry. Don't mind her um..." I had to choke on my words there as the lady's presence suddenly unnerves me to no end. How on earth are Shugo and Alex not scared of her?! Just because they apparently come from the same world or something? "Um... what... what she's uh, trying to say um, basically... she uh, she's asking if you have seen her son, which... I uh, I take it from your unchanged expression um... you haven't seen him at all, have you? She never meant any trouble, my apologies." I quickly shut my mouth after hearing my wretched, awful voice and turn my gaze away from the greatsword lady, hoping that I've done enough to avert another crisis. I then give off a menacing glare at both the bunny girl and Shugo as my eyes glow slightly, telling them to cut it off about that remark about me. Seriously, are you guys done with the whole chit chat? I really don't care if you also find a tavern; Me and Okaa-san really need our personal space so we can at least prepare for the long journey ahead, whether it'd be with that new lady or not.
I'm already shaking just by glancing and talking to her, even though her eyes aren't even locked onto me. My arm is shaking too, the one that's latched onto Okaa-san's. What's with her? I sense some frightful feeling coming from her direction... And speaking of frightening... who's holding onto Stupid Rixi right now?! I whip my head around frantically. I almost forgot he's still here! What are we even gonna say when she finds him tied up like that?!
Mira
As expected of the noble bunny, Shugo's flattering entrance plus his foreign accent (just like how she has one herself) towards the newcomer Liivi had her smirking with glee. "Liivi, eh? That's a beautiful name." Mira admires as she gives a courtesy. "Ah don't worry about it. We only got here just now too, so don't worry too much. Mira Laurits by the way, daughter of Miranda, the Dutchy of Platone. If you're still up for it we'd be delighted to have your company. So you're from Nemos, eh? Prihyeh, Nemos... Man if only my mother would let me travel to other countries. I mean up until now, I haven't really gone anywhere outside of Perkunwos."All of a sudden, Mira sees Maya stumbling her way and speak in... something very incoherent. And then the hoodie boy comes in to stop her awkwardly without even making eye contact with any of the trio. She grimaces at them. Geez what is with these two?! At the rate things are going they're the ones going to attract unwanted attention. Not her. And, what Maya said, or at least, clarified by the hoodie boy... Oh I see. That's why. She's looking for her son. Almost forgot about that.Mira chuckles to herself before clearing her throat and avoiding Renar's intimidating stare. "Oh yeah. That lady with the closed eyes um, apparently she doesn't talk to us at all... besides that weird hoodie guy for some reason... *COUGH COUGH* Sorry... um... but yeah. She's been looking for her lost child for quite some time now, and she wondering if you'd have any clues on his whereabouts?" Mira nonetheless asks even though Renar bluntly assumes that she hasn't. She overhears Shugo's remark about the war of politicians and quivers. Hopefully her mother won't have to deal with such a crisis like this.
When Liivi suggests that the group can head to a tavern to further discuss this, Mira couldn't agree less and widens her smile; The fear that has emaciated from her has reduced slightly, but not fully. "Of course. You're more than welcome to join us if you're also willing to put up with the..." She makes the quote sign with her tiny paws. "..."Weirdness" of the group, eheheh. But yeah, It would make more sense to find some space where we can discuss alone, rather than to uh... be the centre of attention about this matter. If this artefact thing is enough to rouse the attention of almost everyone, I think it would be wise to crack the case before a full-blown civil war breaks out between the entire world."
"Speaking of which though, Shugo..." Mira addresses him. "I thought you said you wanted to buy a longbow? Maybe you can do that first? And what's taking Alex so long...? Then again, the entire group is here in a way, ironically enough."But then another thought surfaces on her mind as her kind smile. Oh no. I just realised we also have the fire guy tied up and beaten down... how are we gonna explain this to her...?! Who's in charge of making sure he doesn't escape?!
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The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance) Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
"Sooooo.... are we going to try asking the guards to hold Cezars while we talk to Paulis or....?"Alex trails off when he realizes the whole group has suddenly gravitated to someone else. "Huh? What... oh." Apparently they saw someone who they know? Or... Mira knows? He looks down at Cezars, who he suddenly realizes is unattended to aside from him, and lets out a sigh. They really can't just keep dragging him around like this. Even with the risk, leaving him at the guard station seems like the best idea if they want to be able to go to Paulis unhindered.
After a moment, he tugs Cezars along with him and joins the others as they talk to the stranger. Sidling up to Mira, he says, "Uh... high! Do you know this woman Mira?" Hopefully they don't end up dragging this innocent person into everything else they have going on. He already feels bad enough about getting Simo's group involved in there... uh... well, everything. Putting on a wide smile, he holds out a hand to the tabaxi woman, "I'm Aleksandteri, but most people just call me Alexander or Alex. Its a pleasure to meet you!"
Alex is clearly the youngest of the group. He's wearing a white tabard with a yellow templar cross emblazoned on the front, as well as a royal blue cloak over his shoulders. His hair is bright blond and his eyes are bluer than his cloak. Basically, he looks like a stereotypical white knight out of a fairytale, well, if that white knight happened to be just a kid.
"Oh, you are looking for the artifact too? Alone? Wow that's brave," he rubs the back of his neck, still smiling and clearly fighting the burning desire to expand their group. What a perfect opportunity! Just like the stories, they could pick up another lone traveler and and more strength to their team! But... but... He can't just ignore the fact that they all have to go to court soon, and making this tabaxi an accessory probably isn't in her best interest. Oh Lord, Mira is already in deeper than he'd wanted her to be, but... maybe having people on their side who aren't in trouble with the law is a good thing? Still, he can't just expect this random lady he just met to be okay with what they are doing. "Well... we are going to go talk to Paulis as soon as possible... he's a really, really old tortle who should be able to help us with finding this artifact thingy. But... first..."He looks to Renar (since he seems to be the best at making plans so far),"I really think we should go ahead and see about leaving Cezars with the town guard. It doesn't make sense to just keep dragging him around if we don't have to, and bringing him right to Paulis doesn't seem like the best idea to me..."
He realizes that Liivi is probably wondering why they have this random fire genasi tied up, "Oh... uh... this guy is an Oathbreaker. He's been doing and trying to do some really bad stuff... and well, we tried to stop him so now we are kinda in trouble too. So we have him in our custody for now, but we've gotta take him to court so that we can get this whole mess sorted out. I know... you probably didn't need to hear that especially since you aren't from here but... Well, I would love to invite you to join our team since you are also looking for the artifact, I just don't know if having you join right before we go to court would be the best thing... heheh..." He gives an awkward chuckle, as clearly the situation bothers him...a lot.
After a moment he looks to the rest of the group and says, "So... anyways, even if we want to do some shopping before going to Paulis, we should probably do something with Cezars first. I mean... it's going to draw a lot of attention if we just pony him around like some sort of violent pack horse."
Liivi raises a brow as Mira mentions her mother. 'My goodness! Her mother is Duchess of Platone?'She honestly did not know a whole lot about Platone, other than it was nearby and a Duchess was pretty important! When the woman named Maya approaches though she is a bit confused. The other one - Mira had said they both wouldn't remove their hoods - spoke for the woman but repeated about the only part she had understood. Even Mira tried to explain. She isn't sure Maya would understand, but she feels that she ought to respond. "Um... is Dokodesu your son's name? Certainly not a name that I've heard. I'm not sure I would have known him if I had spotted him, but I don't think I've seen him."
Then finally the last of the group approached. Pulling an unconscious fire genasi along with him. 'Brave traveling alone?' she wonders as this bright blond boy mentions it. 'And why is this genasi tied up?' But then he mentions the artefact. And an old tortle Paulis that might have information? She definitely wants to tag along for that! As he then dismisses the idea of her joining them, she realizes she has to speak up. "Ah, it is quite good of you to have taken on an Oathbreaker and are bringing him to justice." Short on specifics, she doesn't see any reason to worry about that. The group will take him to court and justice will see to the rest. "I would be most pleased to join you though and aid your endeavor in what ways I can. As you said, traveling alone is not always easy."
"I don't have any need to visit a merchant. But I imagine I could assist with getting this Oathbreaker - Cezars - turned over to the guard." They already had seemed willing to welcome her to their group - especially Mira - but being helpful certainly wouldn't hurt either. "We can take care of both things at once and then go to see Paulis?"
He gives Liivi's hand a firm shake, vaguely wondering if this cat-lady is anything like the one he knows from back home. He doesn't comment on her mispronunciation of his name. He's been called wierder things..."Nice to make your acquaintance. Nemos eh?"
Shugo hadn't really intended on adding this cat-lady to their group. It seem a little unfair to just welcome her in right now when she'd definitely be getting tied up in a lot more than she'd probably like. With his last comment he'd actually been hoping to steer her away from the artifact....oh well. He snickers a little at Renar's reaction to his comment, then nods to Mira as a thought occurs to him. "Yeah, I'd like to see what the merchant has. Actually, If you Alex and our new friend Liivi want to take Mr. Hothead to see the guards, Renar and Maya can come with me to the merchant." As he says this he steps over to Renar and throws an arm over his shoulder. He hopes the 'changeling' understands what he's doing, as it has occurred to him that it might be best to keep Maya away from the guards with her speech issue and whatnot. On top of this, he doesn't particularly like the idea of possibly being taken prisoner, and if someone did get taken prisoner, it would be better if at least a few of them weren't captured. "Then after that, we can all go see Paulis. Sound like a plan?"
I had to blow a small raspberry outside of their lines of vision. Doko-desu... pfft. No way Okaa-san would christen me with the name 'Where'. Nemos... That's again another place I've never heard of. As much as I don't know what Prihyeh is, obviously too. So the leopard woman is coming with us? Great. Just what I need for my anxiety to spike. Shugo's not even taking my warning seriously. Damn it. My head already spinning from this unwanted socialization. How am I suppose to threaten him to leave me alone without saying a word, let alone get him off my shoulders?! Speaking of which, what was Shugo think when he tried to lump me in with those ladies?! Gah! Him forcefully including me in their stuck up conversation was the straw that broke the Oni's back. I forcefully tore his arm off my shoulder in response without saying a word. I know he's thinking: What are me and Okaa-san thinking of doing? How are we gonna manage it without the rest and whatnot? Well, seeing that we're so distorted, I need to make a decision that can get the entire group somewhere. Or at least, that's what I hope. Getting the guards to watch over, buying supplies, finding a tavern... It wouldn't hurt to split up, right? Someone needs to make the decisions, here. And it's usually me; The one who couldn't decide previously...
Taking a deep breath, I lock my eyes onto the rest as I spit out...
"Split up! Guards and supplies first, then tavern. Then we get out of here! I'm heading to the shops!" I silently hiss at Alex and bunny girl before I tug on Okaa-san's shoulder and lead her and Shugo away to buy some supplies. What I said sounded harsh but it was brief and easy for them to understand. I hope Alex and the bunny girl can take care of Stupid Rixi when me and Okaa-san can't. Also what's with the elf trying to drag me into another useless chit chat?! Can't we have some peace? Besides... I need to find somewhere to sharpen my katana as I tug on the sheath. Not even 2 weeks into this calamity and It's already becoming blunt...
Speaking of which, those guards over there don't seem trustworthy as the public eye seem to be. Or maybe it's just me. I can't tell, not when the two of us are dicing with death in a world we never wanted to return to; A world where us kitsunes are treated as monsters even when we don't act as so. "Okaa-san. Karera-me o hanasanaide kudasai (彼ら目を離さないでください, Keep an eye on them.) I don't trust those guards to watch over him..." I also whisper into her ear whilst I'm at it, already expecting the guards to let him off easy for some reason that I won't bother to explain because they won't listen.
Mira
The bunny chuckles again at Liivi willing to assist in whatever way she can. "Be our guest. We ain't a serious bunch despite looking so. If you have any needs that we need to pay attention to, let us know whilst we're at it." At Alex suggestion, she nods her head almost instantly as he finishes. "Great idea. We can perhaps split up for the time being to maximize efficiency. Then when we're all done we can meet up at the tavern that Liivi would help to find for us before we discuss our future plans."Though tiny in stature, Mira gestures Liivi to crouch so she can whisper into her ear a line from Act IV of Loveless: "My friend. Your desire is the bringer of life, the gift of the goddess. This rebellion thing, we can expand on it later if you want, when we sit inside the tavern. I want to know more of your side."
Almost immediately though, the bunny girl was forced to hear Renar's words of desperation before he blatantly leaves with Maya and Shugo. She folds her arms over his weirdness, thinking that Liivi must be unnerved by him in a way. "Eh. Don't mind him. He's always been like this. I think... I haven't really bothered to ask." Mira scoffs when Renar sourly hisses the nutshell plan and storms off with Shugo and Maya in tow. This hoodie couple must be hiding some secrets that they really don't want to tell, huh? Just like Shugo not wanting to reveal his hereditary sickness to the rest... But he's right. They need to keep on their feet rather than waste time chit chatting with the newcomer. "So uh... now that they've moved off um... I guess we go deal with the fire boy?"
If Alex does agree to dump Cezars with the guards: "Anyways, Alex... shall we finish the job?" The noble bunny turns to him and then to Liivi. "You're welcome to go with either of the two groups. I mean, we'll eventually be regrouping anyways so no biggie on who you go with, no pressure, heheh. Come on, Holy boy!" She'll wait for Alex to lead the way before she hops behind her on her two feet. Upon arriving at the guards, Mira clears her throat.
"Ahem... excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but..." She gestures to Alex (and Liivi if she does assist the duo) and makes eye contact with them. "You two wanna do the honours?"
"Oh... uh...."Alex smiles then rubs the back of his head when Liivi states that she'd like to join them. "That's great!"Normally he'd be overjoyed at having another comrade join the team, but right now he feels a little... well, like he's going to drag her into something she didn't sign up for. But, then again, God works in ways he can't understand so... Looks like they've got a new companion! "Welcome to the team Liivi!"
He raises an eyebrow when Renar seems to take Shugo's words the wrong way... something must be bothering the 'changeling' seems how he's been in a bit of a mood for the last couple days. Maybe he'll have to question him again later... or not, he'll just have to see what happens later. "Alright, I'll go with Mira and our new friend here to get Cezars behind bars."He might end up interviewing and instructing the guards a little... just to make sure they actually know how to keep Cezars contained... maybe, they'll just have to see what the place and the people look like.
"Right, meet you at the tavern then," he waves as Renar heads off with Maya and Shugo. Then he turns to Mira and Liivi again and says, "No way am I leaving you two with this Oathbreaker. Not that I don't think you could handle him," he chuckles. "But it's my duty to see that he doesn't escape."
He leads the way as best he can to the guard station, and tries to put on a professional expression as Mira gets the guards attention... which quickly fades into his usual demeanor as he says, "Uh... yeah. So I'm not sure if you guys have been notified or anything, but Cezars here is under arrest. We are going to take him to a trial in Madura. We would have come with some other guards but Cezars escaped and we had to chase him down..." He gives an in depth explanation of what happened, who the other guards were who initially arrested them only to let them go so they could take Cezars into custody again. He also explains that they are supposed to go talk to Paulis first, but that they don't think it would be a good idea to take Cezars with them, so they would like to leave him in prison for the time being. "We'll come back after we speak to Paulis," he finishes. "Then we'll take him so that we can attend the trial and see him brought to justice."
After part of the group heads off to find a merchant, Liivi follows Mira's gesturing and leans down to listen to her. She puzzles for a moment over the whispered words. 'I wonder what this goddess is? And she keeps talking of rebellion. Is this something her mother supports? Is that why she had been held captive?' Quickly though the rabbit-woman returns the conversation to the 'fire boy'. "I can help with the prisoner. I'd be glad to help. And guess I'll be keeping an eye out for a tavern too!"
Liivi steps forward, ready to help Alex with the fire genasi if he wishes her to. "I can help carry him. Or if you prefer, I keep an eye on him in case he awakens?" As soon as he's set, she moves off to find the guards. Then once there, she listens to what Mira has to say then looks to Alex as he speaks to the guards.
The general store and the smithy are just a few streets away, their walls are painted white with a red roof. You can see a forge and an anvil outside, the interior must be where they sell weapons and camping supplies.
You walk into the store, and inside, you see all sorts of weapons on a display to the left part of the store, the right part is stacked with food, rations, and some tools. You're the only person here, there isn't a single person in the store, not even a cashier or a shop owner, but there is a calico cat sitting on a counter, looking at you.
The shelf is stocked with all sorts of food—pickled beetroot, onions, flour, and potatoes, all of them locally sourced and definitely 100% organic. There are also two Potion of Healing on a glass display.
The part with weapons mainly has polearms, but there is a shortbow and a longbow on display, exactly something Shugo needs.
The cat on the counter earlier jumps on a shelf and lands on Shugo's shoulder, "Need something?" She says. In other worlds, an animal speaking in Common might shock a lot of people, but in Lancea, familiars, Druids with Wildshape, and someone who got polymorphed still retain their ability to speak Lancea. Truly wild animals and semi-civilised creatures speak Alharisian, a distant relative to Lancean.
For those going to the guard's post.
The post is located in the other part of the town, it's a not-so-cosy wooden hut, there are cobwebs under the roof, moulds on the wall, and the wood itself smells funny. Nonetheless, you open the door and enter the building.
Of course, the interior looks about as bad as the exterior. There is mould in the corner, a bucket on the floor which holds water from the leaking roof, and a painting of a duck... that's it, that painting is the only decoration in this guard post. There is also a kitchenette to the left and one jail cell to the right.
A hooded half-elf, who appears to be the only guard here, is sleeping face-down on a table below the painting. Another person in this room, a middle-aged grey-furred Tabaxi, is also sleeping in the cell, face-planting on the floor. Judging by his tricorn hat and jacket, he must be a pirate, but this part of Kerwos is very far from the sea, how did they even get him here?
The half-elf slowly opens his eyes, he sees Cezars tied up on the ground and lets out a big sigh. "Again? What did he do this time?"
He listens to Alex's explanation, sleepily nodding along with him. "Yeah, no. Unfortunately, this cell is too small to hold two people, and we have a bigger fish to catch." He points to the Tabaxi. "This is Leevi, captain of the People's Navy—pirates who plunder Elmars' fleet. Under the Duke's order, he must be transported to the main prison in Madura as soon as possible, but unfortunately, the storm hits and everyone who patrols this area goes elsewhere to rescue flood victims, leaving only me to guard... that guy." Elmars the Aarakocra the duke of the current duchy you're in right now.
"Ahoy, mateys!"He was sleeping a second ago, and now Leevi is on his feet. He looks at Liivi, another Tabaxi like him, these two look somewhat alike due to their fur, but still different enough to tell that they are not related. "Mind helping a fellow feline out, lass?"
"Don't."The half-elf glares. "If we let him go, we will go around and go plundering again, you know what pirates are capable of."
"I wasn't asking ya, ye landlubber."Leevi hisses at the half-elf, "Besides, not all pirates are like that, ye know. My crew only steals from the rich and gives it to the poor, Elmars steal from the poor and give it to himself! Look at the room ye are in right now, if he cares about his soldiers, then he wouldn't leave this place in such a sorry state, and he also wouldn't let a madman like that fire Genasi roaming around, assaulting people! Rauna deserves a better ruler than him!"
"Just... Ignore him, guys. He's been spewing this crap ever since he got here... Order is order, we have to get him to Madura first, that's our number one priority right now. Cezars is a bit... unstable, but he does keep this country safe and secured, even if his method is a bit... unhinged."The half-elf looks down, "Well... that's what Elmars told me, at least. This is, like, my second week of working and I don't get to know everyone yet."
People's Navy is an ally of the People's Army, one is sea-based and the other is land-based. They're a group of freedom fighters who want to overthrow Elmars and replace him with their own leader, Zelta. They promise better equality and less tax for all of its citizens, they do steal from people, but like Leevi said earlier, they only target the rich.
By the way, Leevi and Liivi are technically the same name, one is masculine and the other is feminine, and both of them sounds similar to each other. Leevi was probably born in Nemos but gained permanent residence in Kerwos, hence the reason why he can get arrested without having to do massive paperwork on this.
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
Liivi gives Leevi a slight grin. "An interesting proposition sir. But I'm afraid I'm not here to free you, fellow feline or not." Admittedly, she's curious about this People's Navy and what this Duke Elmars might be doing. She might even be sympathetic to his cause. But it is really not her place to jump into a political dispute this far from home. And what is this about Cezars, seemingly working for the defense of the country. And he works with Elmars support it seems.
She then turns to Alex and Mira. "What exactly did this Cezars do? You called him an Oathbreaker; I presumed that meant he was some sort of traitor. But now the guard here isn't even interested in holding him?" She turns to the half-elf for confirmation. "That is basically what you are saying, right? You would just let him go for lack of space to imprison him?"
Hearing the guards explain their nonsense about upon reaching that station, Mira couldn't help but give off an obvious shake in the head. "He keeps this country safe and secured, my ass. At least from the previous fight, that's what I thought. So you have encountered this jerk before? And you've dealt with his irrational behaviour? And you never bothered to even pursue him for all the things he's done? Well uh, you heard of this Adelaide that apparently is related to this guy? Even if you could set a prison for this victim, what if she uses her money to set him free again, huh? Then who's gonna keep this endless cycle in check?" What if Paulis is his next victim?She wanted to ask, but she had to eat those words.
At Liivi's question, Mira skeptically puts a paw to her chin. "Well uh, I don't exactly know what happened beforehand but as I said um... this jerk... plus his goons, a half-elf, some non-talkative gnome and a changeling apparently... um... They were responsible for my capture; They hung me on an ice stick. Almost froze to death! Did you know that he also actually tried to summon a demon from who-knows-where in our face?! I heard this poor group got entangled in his shenanigans... no..." She cracks her knuckles as steam can be observed coming out of her tiny head. "...rather that idiot also dragged me into his unwanted mess when I could've recited another poem for the audience! Has he not been taught any discipline or something?!" She pauses, thinking that Alex must have thought she was referring to her and quivers. "Oh! Uh- Not you, ehehe! The fire guy, I meant! I'm sorry-!"
Her mood worsens when she hears that their current prisoner is a part of some Navy trying to sabotage Elmars, who has a diplomatic relationship with her mother, even if appears hostile to her at times; But to see him not care for someone wreaking havoc in the shadows... that's another issue to be addressed too in a way. "Great. People's navy willing to sabotage Elmars, huh? Just what I needed to hear. At least if what he says is true, then..." She pauses as she attempts to reconsider her words. "...Um... actually... mother will be equally furious as I am especially if tensions rise because of this. Does that organisation ring a bell to you, holy boy? Wait... your stupid, useless trial is in Madura right?"There isn't really much she can argue for right now, to her than the fact that this prisoner is literally going straight to where these guys are supposed to head to after Paulis. But whilst this doesn't for her, something else did; The imprisoned feline knows... They know each other? Liivi and... another Leevi? "Wait... you two know each other... And have the same name?!" Mira gawks flabbergasted as she once again shudders from Liivi's intimidating presence.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
The Wildland Shifters Daisy Ethalena- Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer) Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade) Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer(Clockwork Soul); Lancea Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance) Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars) Yurime Hanasaki- Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Alex stands there for a moment in silence, clearly contemplating the situation. The more he hears about Elmars, the less he likes the bird. For a moment, he turns his attention to Leevi, wishing he could let him know that he is friends with at least a few members of the people's army. Even if he doesn't agree with all their actions, he doesn't really think they are completely in the wrong. Even with everything that has happened, he does believe that it is important to respect laws and those who are in authority. But... sometimes, like when they first interfered with Cezars, following the rules isn't always what is right.
Then he laughs... perhaps not the best response, but he can't help it. This whole situation just keeps getting more and more muddled, "Really? Order is order? Look, I understand that this pirate has broken the law, but has he actually hurt anyone? I'm not saying people just just be allowed to go around doing whatever they want, but if I had to choose between taking Leevi to justice and taking Cezars, it would be Cezars. Even if I wasn't the one who witnessed everything, had my very life threatened by him, and helped catch him after he got away." He looks to Liivi, "Cezars is an Oathbreaker because he was a paladin, but he broke his oath. All he cares about is the law, which for some reason doesn't seem to keep him from hurting people. The only reason we got caught up in this mess was because we saw him wrongly accuse a merchant and ruthlessly beat her for no reason. That's just the bare minimum. He beats the elderly when they forget their passport. He burnt down an older woman's house, destroying the trees she's been propagating for years. He kidnapped an egg from a dragon and was going to perform a dark ritual on it. He summoned a demon and forced it to fight us against its will. And worst of all, he LITERALLY THREATENED TO KILL US!!! He might not have succeeded in taking our lives, but he definitely tried to commit the most heinous crime imaginable. If he had the chance he would again, and if he fought anyone weaker than he would have succeeded. And yet Elmars is content to let him run rampant? He'd rather focus on not listening to the people he's supposed to be governing fairly, and allow a ruthless Oathbreaker like this to terrorize them? Maybe if he actually cared about and listened to the citizens of his duchy, the Peoples Army and the People's Navy wouldn't be here!"
He sighs, shaking his head, "This world is such a mess... oh yeah, and Cezars is working with Adelaide to help some aliens come and take over the world. How's that for a reason to help us keep him locked up?"
He looks to Liivi, "So, that's just a few of the things this guy has done. He is supposed to be a guard who keeps the peace, but he just goes around abusing his power because he thinks that the law is everything and he has the right to enforce it however he sees fit. But he also broke his oath and has some sort of darkness in him. Plus, like I said, he's working with some really really bad people. Not sure why, or what he gains from it, but he is. And we have a witness," he gestures to Mira. "So we have loads of evidence against him. Hopefully the guards who initially arrested all of us show up, because they can testify too." He looks at the guard, "I have no intention of letting him go. He's coming to Madura with us and he is going to stand trial... not that I have much faith anymore that justice will be served. I also intend to notify the church of his current status as an Oathbreaker. Hopefully between everything going on, Elmars will have no choice but to throw this piece of scum into the deepest prison cell possible, where he can't hurt anyone anymore." His expression has gone dark--something that happens very very rarely with the usually jovial paladin. "I had just hoped that we'd be able to rely on the people who are supposed to protect this town to help us make sure Cezars doesn't get away while we go deal with unfinished business."
He looks to Mira, "I... don't think Liivi here knows Leevi. The names are just a coincidence... Right?" He glances at Liivi, his demeanor semi-shifting back to normal. "Plus you aren't even from this country, so it would be a bit of a stretch for them to have met already." He directs the last half of the sentence at Mira, hoping to clear up the confusion... if that's what this is anyways.
Then he looks at Adolfs again, his expression shifting to serious once more, "Look, I'm sorry this has been put on you right after you started the job, but sometimes hard decisions have to be made. My comrades and I have already been put in that situation once before thanks to this genasi. And you can see what choice we made." He pauses, "I'm not saying just let Leevi go. We can work something out. Honestly I'd rather bring the pirate to Paulis instead of dragging this dangerous individual around. But, the choice is yours I guess. Help us out, as well as all the innocent people here, or protect your job. I'm willing to back you up if something goes wrong, but I know my influence is small and my word can only go so far." He waits for a response, not expecting much.
Shugo yelps sharply when Renar violently yanks his arm. Geez what was that for? All he was trying to do was get Maya away from the guards and Renar away from Mira since the two obviously don't care for each other much, and this is the thanks he gets? Before he can respond, Renar grabs him again along with Maya and starts dragging him away....Well at least he's not arguing with him.
Skipping slightly to regain his balance as the shifter pulls him towards the store, he looks back at Alex and the others giving them a smile and a thumbs up. After walking a few paces, he yanks his arm out of the fox-folk's grasp and jumps in front of him, "What the HECK was that? Don't you know I'm carrying an UNBORN CHILD! What would have happened if I'd fallen down or something?" He yells pointing at his pack. Then he falls silent...."Uuuuuh well that sounded weird."
Ignoring any odd looks he gets, he nonchalantly places both hands behind his head as he quickens his pace to keep up with Renar. "What HAS gotten into you? I get we all have secrets, and I really don't care if you keep yours, but that's no reason to be rude to your comrades." He purposely does not make eye-contact with Renar, and while he's staying true to his usual demeanor, his tone is mostly seriousness. "I get you're a bit of a lone wolf, but whether you like it or not we are all in this together. Even after the trial, as much as I would....and I'm assuming you feel the same.... like to drop this entire mess and focus on our own problems, I doubt we can walk away from any of this that easily."
Like Shugo, Maya yelps in surprise when her son forcefully drags her away from the pack in search of supplies. Ok, she gets that her son is feeling pressured but why the rather rude gesture?! Even when Renar spurts out the plan to the others, just hearing his tone, the way he spits it... that is so not like the Raiden she once knew. Though what the two of them are saying to each other is incomprehensible, just glancing at his recent behaviour plus the way he speaks is enough to deduce that she needs to teach her son some manners again, even if it goes against her peaceful way of living.
She pants deeply as he lowers her head for a minute with Shugo and Renar words echoing into her head, their thoughts overriding the peaceful nature swirling within her. Not wanting to see a conflict escalate between these two handsome men, the mama fox decided enough is enough. All of a sudden, she jumps in between the two bickering men, holds out both of her arms and extends her sharp claws in front of the two. "YAMETE! (やめて!) YOU TWO! Y-yamete...! (やめて...!) E... enough...!" She yells out in anguish, before immediately breaking her voice down into a shudder. An obvious conflict hater, the last thing she needs is for an elf noble she barely knows to get in a heated conflict with her son. She understands why her son is being so rebellious, she gets it. He's super uncomfortable with the new teammates. He's uncomfortable with how they're dragging him into these social situations. But he needs to remember: She's the same as him; She being dragged into this too, yet she isn't complaining about it so far. Why is he getting so heated up? Just because he doesn't know these people? In fact this is the first time that Maya has seen her son crack under pressure over an unexpected turn of events. If she needs to make him revert, she'll need to one day pry into his thoughts and find out what he's most worried about.
"Shugo-kun, Renar-kun... no!" Maya pants in broken Lancean. She turns to Shugo first, making a face that basically says "Stop pressuring Renar-kun and give him some space. You're scaring him!", hoping that Shugo can at least understand her since she cannot speak properly. Turning to Renar, she snarls at him too, except that this time, she does so with a dark, threatening aura around her, as if she's about to punish him extremely badly; No thoughts needed. Just a demonic-like, furious face plus the fact that knowing that her son will easily back down from something like this just like in the past.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod) Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic) Maya Kurosaki- Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time Shijiro Otsune- Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan) Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Now that we're out of sight, I had to vent out my anger and frustration towards the only person that Okaa-san cannot understand at this point. "What has gotten into me?! Says the one who had the nerve to pressure me at every obtuse angle when I was keeping my distance! I only stepped closer to help Maya-san! I knew what you intended to do after this and I said it for you, but did you really have to drag me into this chit chat when I least expected it?! You could've laid it off with you forcing your arm onto my shoulder and drawing me closer!"I steel myself as Shugo also recoils when he says something weird; Kinda like how much I do the same ironically but still...! "My point proven: I honestly don't care about you carrying that egg... or that baby dragon or... whatever! If you want to sound like a father then be my guest! But... The way you spoke... even just now, you've already... When you said you sounded weird... That's why I wanted to move on! You all... when... I at least try to reason with you guys, you keep taking it as something else! It's as if I'm speaking another language, which in turn, spikes my anxiety!"I take moment to pause, my golden eyes glowing with hatred. With distrust. I don't know how I managed to contain my anger into a whisper all of this time, but I'll take it nonetheless. If this was Okaa-san, she obviously hear the pain in my words, the voice crack, the stutters, every single clue about my inability to deal with strangers I don't know. "What... w-w-what I just spoke... I... would you rather I'd create another unnecessary conflict? Would rather I say something that can potentially upset our new member, or anyone, including you?! I'm ok with having another member with us but not when i have to be included in something that I don't want to join."I breathe heavily as I again, experience a reel of awful memories flashing in my head. "I... I had so much I wanted to say to you guys but... with all of this pressure coming from you all, it's really hard for me to speak up. It's hard for me to speak properly! I'm scared if I say the wrong thing... I... Would you rather I cause trouble when I didn't mean to?!" My claws suddenly sharpen as I move in closer to his face; It was at this point I could feel myself slowly losing my sense of reasoning.
"You think... just because I don't speak the same way as you guys, just because I think differently from you... you have the guts to-!" I already envision myself and Shugo shredding each other apart, until I notice something, or rather, Okaa-san stepping between the two of us all of a sudden. Wait... why is she so... Oh no...! This is bad! Okaa-san is mad. I can already see the dreadful aura coming from her entire body; My life is already flashing before my eyes as I envision her dealing a fatal punch to my stomach just like the last time I fought her. "O... Maya-san...?!"I yelp as I immediately withdraw from arms length. She know, doesn't she? That I'm... that I'm losing my mind. Standing in absolute silence, I take moment to pause and reconsider what I've just been doing if I don't want Okaa-san to become the monster that everyone fears... Actions speak louder than words... and they hurt as much as the latter. At this point my surroundings become blank, my shudders, alongside Shugo's can be clearly heard. Neither of us want conflict, but at the same time, we sound like we enjoy it, even though we didn't mean it. At least, that's what I assume on my end.
My thoughts swirl to Rixi, Ethan and Yuri, the three people who care for the most ever since I was found as a lost, and almost unhinged kit, if they had to deal with me in this state. Rixi as a Fire Genasi would've burnt me to a crisp when provoked, even though he's a really timid boy just like me. Yuri, being a Gumiho with brute strength, would've slapped me so hard she could've broken my skull. Ethan doesn't resort to violence, but just hearing the Simic's low and threatening voice unnerves me... Snapping back to reality, I turn back to Shugo with a disdained squint. He must be thinking: 'What's been surfacing on my mind? Why am I acting so weird when I'm in fact, trying to steer everyone out of harm's way? Why don't I talk normally? Why doesn't Okaa-san talk normally? Do I even understand his viewpoints? Would I want to?' And so many more questions I can possible think of but don't want to. Well... We haven't known each other for even a month. So I can't really say. But... seeing that he needs answers from me, I take a moment to breathe again as I speak to him softly... "From my perspective, it seems like we've only agreed to team up because of this artefact nonsense. I was hoping we could do something more like, you know, getting to know each other slowly. Maybe learn more about each other, find common round outside of this step by step, rather than to constantly pressure each other and constantly make false assumptions, even though that's what I've been doing, I'll admit. I guess I was wrong..." I sigh with regret in my tone.
I scan my surroundings one last time; Bunny girl, Alex and the leopard lady are outside of my current vision. Shugo must be misunderstood, Okaa-san's incredibly mad right now... I didn't have a choice. Whether it be ripping up Shugo or getting ripped up by Okaa-san, I had to accept defeat in my mind; I turn away from Shugo's irritated demeanour as I walk off to find something.... something that could take my mind of this, though I did give him one last moment of words to express part of my truth."You want to know why I'm like this? Fine. I'll tell you something, but not all of it: all those years I've spent facing discrimination, torture, distrust and loneliness, those memories have crept back to haunt me. Both me and this odd lady here, we've been through the same thing despite not having known each other until now. That's what I was reminded of, whenever I try to de-escalate things. When I try to make things better rather than to worsen it. That's why we never trust easily."That's why I feel scared, even as I walk past the two into the stores hoping that the situation won't escalate. "Even if I did share, even if the lady lets me explain what's bothering the two of us... and why we're both acting so weird to you guys, you guys don't look like the types to believe, let alone understand us. You never will. Is that what you're also thinking when you see the two of us?" I know he has secrets of his own too, but at least I don't pressure him like he does to me. Sort of. I don't want to hear an answer from Shugo at this point. Not now at least. But I hope he can at least consider what I said for real, as much as I'm doing my best to consider his."Besides, we're wasting time. Let's get in there." "Besides, we're wasting time. Let's get in there."
Entering the weapons shop, I speak to a merchant before Shugo could do so just so we can get this out of the way; Also I wanted to correct my wrongdoings towards him earlier. "Pardon me, but do you have a longbow for our friend here? I heard he's in need of one right now. And uh... do you happen to have any enchanted swords... or are able to enchant weapons?" I'm not expecting her to have what we're looking for, but it's still a start. What else? Um... Oh that's right. Food; Okaa-san needs them I can tell. "Also, is there somewhere we can perhaps, um... obtain some rations? We don't intend to stay here for long, so we need to stock up on food."
Liivi feels a bit of relief as she hears the list of offenses heaped upon Cezars. First and foremost, Mira reveals that this fire genasi was the one that kidnapped her! And then the list of assaults Alex gives seems to confirm it. The information at least helps her feel like she was right to believe what they'd said about their captive. She again turns to look at the half-elf guard unsure what it is that makes him so steadfast about not getting him into custody.
It is then that she hears Mira seem to suggest that she knows Leevi. Alex seems to correct the rabbit-woman, but then seems waver, asking for confirmation. "Of course it's a coincidence about the names. I do not know Leevi; we have never met before. And I have already indicated that I do not intend to help him." Her voice is calm, she knows these others will have doubts, seeing as they have all just met. 'I just questioned why they have Cezars all tied up. It will take some time to really build any trust,' she thinks.
She then listens as Alex attempts to convince the guard to help them. She adds her own plea. "Surely you have heard what these two have said about this fire genasi's actions. As Alex here has said, you need not release the pirate. But would you at least work with us so that we can figure out a solution together?"
(Persuasion, if needed: 23 - rolled on character sheet)
Shugo immediately shrinks back in shock and confusion when Renar starts yelling back at him. Even considering his violently yanking the elf's arm, Shugo wasn't expecting the normally quiet boy to explode like that. Raising his hands defensively, he stutters, "P-pressure you? What? No one is pressuring you to do anything? Well Mira might but--" Renar cuts him off before he can say any more, so he clamps his mouth shut and just takes in the kid's words. He really thinks Shugo and the rest of the party are trying to force him into interacting? Really? Is just mentioning him in a conversation with someone else considered pressure to him? Reason with them? What? Since when had anyone been anything but reasonable? Shugo is completely confused by all of this, but then again he really hasn't spoken with Renar all that much. Though up until now, he'd thought that Renar and himself had a similar way of thinking. He still does, as most of the time, they both seem to come up with relatively similar plans. Heck, they even seem to have had similar opinions towards recruiting that tabaxi.
When Maya steps between the two of them, he reflexively shrinks behind her as Renar continues his rant. There's a long moment of awkward silence before Renar makes his final comments. After which Shugo straitens back up slowly. He can't disagree with what Renar said. Other than maybe Alex, the group really had come together just because of that artifact. He feels a pang of guilt in remembering he'd pretty much just joined them because they could be potential body shields if they got into anything super sticky. Though now, he'd thought they had become more of a team at this point. Apparently he had been very very wrong in thinking that. Slowly, he speaks up with a nervous smile on his face. "Alright. I'm sorry if you feel pressured, but I wouldn't have known you felt that way if you hadn't told me just now. I can't read your mind, and neither can anyone else. We can't learn anything about each other if we never talk you know? Lack of communication is the breeding ground for false assumptions." He rubs the back of his neck not making eye contact. "And for the record, I don't have a problem with the way you talk." He falls silent, unsure if he should say any more since Renar clearly doesn't want to talk to him. Though if he could, he'd reassure Renar that even if he said something 'wrong' it really wouldn't matter. Despite Renar thinking that he and Shugo are two completely different people who will never understand each other. They do seem to be two sides of the same coin in Shugo's book. While Shugo didn't have to deal with discrimination based on his race, he has been discriminated against in different ways by his own kin no less just because of how he acts and what he believes. While the elf is not easily hurt by that sort of thing by the general crowd and other nobility, the disdain shown to him by his siblings and parents does weigh on him at times.
He gives Maya and apologetic and appreciative look, as the trio enters the store. He follows behind Renar, obviously trying to give him some space. At this point everything Renar said has actually had time to sink in, even that part about him trying to act like a father....boy what he'd said earlier came out wrong. He hadn't meant that at all, he would be more than happy to get rid of that egg, he just doesn't want to be responsible if anything bad happens to it.
He's spurred out of his daze when Renar asks about the longbow for him. Maybe even though he'd made Renar mad, this will turn out for the better? He at least understands Renar a bit better now, hopefully they can put all this behind them. Replacing his expression of shock with his usual grin again, he nods along with Renar's words. Heh, once again it seems like the 'changeling' has had the same thought he had. They definitely need rations. A growl from his stomach reminds him that he hasn't eaten since they'd set up camp in that badger home last night. Though if he can help it, he'll be eating a nice fresh meal from the tavern after this.
He looks around the store, he hadn't thought about enchanted weapons but that was a good question. Though he doubts a small town like this would have someone who could do that. He wouldn't be surprised if these people don't even have a longbow with the state the place is in. "If you don't mind my asking, do you happen to know if anyone has gone to talk with Paulis recently?" He asks after Renar has finished speaking.
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Mira
Oh. So this feline lady actually has something to do with the rebellion? To anyone else it may have something mundane, but to Mira, seeing that her extended bloodline is or was part of that was enough to pique her despite the anxiety she is experiencing. And then she hears the tabaxi raise her voice a little. She's frustrated, yes. But even so, that doesn't mean she should attract unwanted attention in this place. The harengon gestures to Liivi, though if the latter did notice, her arm is literally vibrating. "N-n-not so loud, my lady. I understand your frustration, but you don't want to end up dealing with a bunch of angry people don't you?" She warns with numerous voice cracks with her Welsh accent. "But... I... I get it. I know what you mean. I just think that now's not the best time to talk about this... t-that's all." Her heart is racing in a frightful way. The shared rebellion interest is something Mira will definitely come back to. But not for now. She has already engaged in a small chit chat with this woman. Maybe Shugo and Alex would be able to help bolster her confidence a little...
At least, until she also picks up Liivi voicing her interest about the artefact. Oh yeah. That's the thing holding the unstable group in one piece isn't it? Maybe she did talk to the right person after all. "Really? You're after the artefact too?" Mira gawks before she chuckles. "Well then it seems like you've came to the right place! Those four over there, they'd probably know more about this stuff than I do. So if you want to delve deeper into this mysterious trinket, look no further than... uh... them. Ahaha!" She glances to the four of them with a forced laugh. And then back. "Uh, yeah. You came from far away, just like those guys, huh? I mean... I kinda live down the road from here so uh..." She scratches her head as Liivi distracts her about how she dealt with the storm scenario. "Man you're a brave one, being able to outrun something like this. My mother would kill me if she heard that I tried to do what you did, let alone saw me drenched like how you are right now."
Back to the artefact subject though, Mira is now doing her best to gather the common interest between the tabaxi and the group so that maybe she can find better ground with her. At least this is better than no similar interest, she guesses. "In all seriousness, um, I get that you don't like dealing with strangers. But believe me: Those four saved my life. I was held hostage by some group of idiots who apparently decided to mess with those four until they came. I kinda of owe them in a way despite my nobility, heheh. They're nice people. I don't sense any ill intent from them, yet. In fact, if they really are after it, then this might be your one shot to know more about it, even though we've had some tensions along the way. I'm sure you'll make a great teammate if you're interested." She takes a moment to squint at the oddball pair a second time; They obviously don't fit her category of 'nice people' judging from their recent behaviour. "I mean, those two I called, Shugo and Holy Boy? They're very nice for sure. I've talked to them several times along the way since I got rescued. Their ambitions, the way the perceive the world, and even their looks, honestly, not that I am one to judge. But I'm sure you'd be able to get along with them. Not sure about the other two though; I call them the oddball pair. One is incredibly anti-social and refuses to take off his hood. The other one, also anti-social, can't speak properly and looks like she's sleepwalking, seeing that her eyes are uncomfortably shut. But she seems nice though. Oh and... did I mention she's not taking off her hood either?"
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance)
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Shugo raises his eyebrows when Mira brings his attention to the hooded tabaxi lady. Wow that little rabbit really is a social butterfly. "Hello there." He says in a friendly voice, though he has an obviously foreign accent. "Another fellow traveler eh? Heh, seems that artifact thing really is popular." He squints at nothing. Man, with everything that's happened lately it's been so long since he'd even thought about thing he'd almost forgot it had been the reason he'd come to this blasted country to begin with. He falls silent for a moment as the chatterbox of a rabbitfolk continues to spout words to this total stranger. Whatever, it's not like it really matters. So long that she doesn't go spouting off to every other random person that he's a noble then she can chat to anyone she likes.
He laughs when Mira starts talking about Renar and Maya. "Oh come now! Renar's not that bad! He's just been in a bit of a mood lately....though even I'm not sure what's up with him and Maya. Up until we met her that kid was terrified of girls! Hahah!" He grins at the tabaxi, "Anyway, like Little Miss Bunny said, my name is Shugo. Shugo Suzuki." He nonchalantly holds out a hand for her to shake.
Shugo's average height for an elf and lean in build. He's currently clad in completely black cloths and a burnt orange overcoat. A dragon hilted sword hangs on his left hip, and he carries a rather bulky pack on his back. His raven black hair is pulled back in a messy wolftail, and his gold-orange eyes are partially obscured by his bangs. Thoroughly drenched as he is, he manages to look rather miserable despite his friendly smile.
Whether or not she shakes his hand, he continues. "Honestly I'm not sure searching for that artifact is really worth it. Heh! Maybe it's cursed as we seem to be running into all sorts of trouble. Not to mention it seems like that artifact may be becoming involved in a lovely war of politicians.... Anyways, have you been here long? I know you're clearly not from around here, but do you at least know if these stores have good prices? Or how affordable the tavern is? If not no worries. We'll find out eventually." He rubs the back of his neck and glances at Paulis's tower, then to the rest of the party, then back at the stranger. Why is he bothering with this conversation again? Ah whatever, it's best to be on good terms with those who are after the same thing as you are.
The tabaxi nods as the rabbit-woman urges caution when she was getting louder. Of course, she had already realized that and dropped the topic. She will have to remember that she is not among her own people and needs to be a bit more circumspect. She tries to take in all the other information as well. Shugo and... Holy Boy? Holiboy? Was that a name or a title? And the other two who would not remove their hoods? They are all looking for the artefact while they also had rescued this rabbit-woman noble from captivity. There must be quite a story there.
"A teammate?" she asks as the woman mentions it. But then she turns as one of the others approaches. She reaches out with a furred paw when he offers his hand then shakes it. "I am Liivi Orav. Pleased to meet you Shugu Suzuki." She notes the accent and turns again to the rabbit-woman. "I believe that I am not from quite as far away as this gentleman. I hail from northwest of here. Nemos." And then again looking back at Sugu she adds, "I'm afraid I only got to Menkalde this morning."
"A war of politicians? I am not surprised. The artefact seems to be very important." She pauses a moment, looking about at the others. It seems best that she change the subject. "If you are looking for an affordable tavern, I could certainly join you for that. I could probably use a brief respite here."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Staring anxiously into the distance, possibly at the towering image of Paulis' location or somewhat, Maya at first lost track of her surroundings as she fades out of reality; Everything in plain sight of mama fox had seem to turn into a blur. Minus her son standing impatiently in front of her as he charts the course. After about five minutes though, she hallucinates about the colossus again; How it stomped on Alex and told her something incoherable. She jolts back with a gasp, thinking her son might have disappeared. He's still here. But now she receiving an awkward look from him. Panicking suddenly, she whips her head around for a brief distraction. Something that could maybe take her mind off this stupid nightmare... and that's when she hears Renar snarling in anger plus a loud, conversive voice coming from her right. Huh? Did something just trigger him? Could it be... Fixing her shut eyes onto the newcomer, she deduces that this might not be someone that... no, she definitely hasn't met her. With the way that feline girl is draped, it almost reminds her of her son's disguise, except without the ears being revealed. Another person to keep the facade up on, perhaps. Turning to her son, she gestures him to wait in the same spot as she walks off, unaware that this was enough to actually unnerve him.
Slowly, with a lot of hesitation, Maya takes small steps as she closes the gap between herself, Shugo, Mira and... whoever they are talking to. To the tabaxi, the woman, just as Mira described her, has a massive black gown draped over her well endowed body and a hoodie covering most of her long, ginger hair too. Almost as if she might be mistaken for an undercover agent. Right now, they cannot be seen, but underneath her disguise lies a pair of white fox ears on her head, as well as a single white fox tail swaying about behind her back. She's probably wondering how she's able to navigate with her eyes closed, because looking at her first glance, it seems that she could have bashed her head into so many things and people without having a line of vision. If not counting Mira who currently stands at her lower hip in size, Maya appears to be the shortest of the four, as she only stands as tall as Shugo's shoulders. Her entire outfit, like Shugo, is absolutely soaked, from her disguise all the way to her bare feet. It's clear that like the rest, she's been through the same thing as them, let alone the person she wants to talk to (or try to in this case). Now that she's closing in, though, her stained, red lips open almost unseen as she reaches out with a hand with what appears to be sharp, red fingernails.
"Ano..." She weakly speaks, only to withdraw when the same dreadful feeling that Mira is receiving strikes her. But then she approaches her slightly to ask again, clawed hands making a series of gestures that the hooded tabaxi would have trouble understanding. "Um... uh... I... My... son... My son. Dokko desu... you see him? I..." She again shudders in broken Lancean, only to be cut off by Renar when she feels him holding her left arm. What does he want now? Other than to actually speak up for her?
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod)
Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic)
Maya Kurosaki - Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea
Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time
Shijiro Otsune - Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan)
Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian)
Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Renar
Seriously, this is getting us nowhere... whatever this town is, I thought we'd all come to an unanimous decision to go get some supplies, get better items, get food, have a break and then we'd split off. Ah whatever. Not that it matters anyways. I quickly pull out my tiny notebook that I haven't pulled out in ages to scribble key updates of our stupid journey, plus some potential problems we might encounter in the future such as... Hmm... other than a world disaster, our identities being revealed and Stupid Rixi, the clash between that dutchy whose name I've forgotten and the stuck up army... There are a lot of things going on right now that I wished they didn't exist. Besides, I wonder who's supposed to be in charge of carrying Stupid Rixi? I mean we can't just drag him face first on the floor, even though he deserves to be treated like so. No wait... let me remedy that thought, especially when Okaa-san jumpscares me with a shrill gasp that pierced my hidden, sensitive ears. I shoot an awkward look at her in response. What was that all about? Why the sudden gasp? Did she actually envision something disastrous? Is she envisioning my demise? Someone else's? This world's maybe? She's gesturing towards me... to stay? Where is she going? Did something catch her eyes at this point?
Or was it... someone? Because when the minute flies, the next thing I observe are... Shugo and the bunny girl talking to a stranger? Geez... Wait, did I just hear that she might be joining us in the search to save this planet and the artefact?! I turn my head away from Okaa-san, grit my teeth in absolute anger and snarl especially when Shugo mocks me in plain sight. Great. Just what I needed; We're doing ok with just the five of us. We don't need another unknown person travelling alongside us just because they share this common interest do they?! My ability to befriend others in this world has already long been hampered. I stare suspiciously at the woman whom they're talking to. She's cloaked just like us two. And soaked. Only difference I can see is that her ears are sticking out, plus the fact that she looks like a leopard from my eyes. Wait... that greatsword... it's huge. She must be a super strong one, then. Already, as I shut my eyes and contemplate on who my supposed new member might turn out to be, I immerse myself in my head, thinking that Alex may choose a different sparring partner after all. Plus the fact that she might have the guts to rip out all of us if we anger her in some way. I really don't want that to happen for sure...
And then I hear another voice. Only this time it sounds incredibly hoarse and broken... Okaa-san... Crap. I suddenly open my eyes only to notice she isn't where I thought she'd be standing; In response I raced over in shock and to where she is now before grasping her left arm in desperation; I need to remedy what she's trying to say fast, and correctly too... "Uh... sorry. Don't mind her um..." I had to choke on my words there as the lady's presence suddenly unnerves me to no end. How on earth are Shugo and Alex not scared of her?! Just because they apparently come from the same world or something? "Um... what... what she's uh, trying to say um, basically... she uh, she's asking if you have seen her son, which... I uh, I take it from your unchanged expression um... you haven't seen him at all, have you? She never meant any trouble, my apologies." I quickly shut my mouth after hearing my wretched, awful voice and turn my gaze away from the greatsword lady, hoping that I've done enough to avert another crisis. I then give off a menacing glare at both the bunny girl and Shugo as my eyes glow slightly, telling them to cut it off about that remark about me. Seriously, are you guys done with the whole chit chat? I really don't care if you also find a tavern; Me and Okaa-san really need our personal space so we can at least prepare for the long journey ahead, whether it'd be with that new lady or not.
I'm already shaking just by glancing and talking to her, even though her eyes aren't even locked onto me. My arm is shaking too, the one that's latched onto Okaa-san's. What's with her? I sense some frightful feeling coming from her direction... And speaking of frightening... who's holding onto Stupid Rixi right now?! I whip my head around frantically. I almost forgot he's still here! What are we even gonna say when she finds him tied up like that?!
Mira
As expected of the noble bunny, Shugo's flattering entrance plus his foreign accent (just like how she has one herself) towards the newcomer Liivi had her smirking with glee. "Liivi, eh? That's a beautiful name." Mira admires as she gives a courtesy. "Ah don't worry about it. We only got here just now too, so don't worry too much. Mira Laurits by the way, daughter of Miranda, the Dutchy of Platone. If you're still up for it we'd be delighted to have your company. So you're from Nemos, eh? Prihyeh, Nemos... Man if only my mother would let me travel to other countries. I mean up until now, I haven't really gone anywhere outside of Perkunwos." All of a sudden, Mira sees Maya stumbling her way and speak in... something very incoherent. And then the hoodie boy comes in to stop her awkwardly without even making eye contact with any of the trio. She grimaces at them. Geez what is with these two?! At the rate things are going they're the ones going to attract unwanted attention. Not her. And, what Maya said, or at least, clarified by the hoodie boy... Oh I see. That's why. She's looking for her son. Almost forgot about that. Mira chuckles to herself before clearing her throat and avoiding Renar's intimidating stare. "Oh yeah. That lady with the closed eyes um, apparently she doesn't talk to us at all... besides that weird hoodie guy for some reason... *COUGH COUGH* Sorry... um... but yeah. She's been looking for her lost child for quite some time now, and she wondering if you'd have any clues on his whereabouts?" Mira nonetheless asks even though Renar bluntly assumes that she hasn't. She overhears Shugo's remark about the war of politicians and quivers. Hopefully her mother won't have to deal with such a crisis like this.
When Liivi suggests that the group can head to a tavern to further discuss this, Mira couldn't agree less and widens her smile; The fear that has emaciated from her has reduced slightly, but not fully. "Of course. You're more than welcome to join us if you're also willing to put up with the..." She makes the quote sign with her tiny paws. "..."Weirdness" of the group, eheheh. But yeah, It would make more sense to find some space where we can discuss alone, rather than to uh... be the centre of attention about this matter. If this artefact thing is enough to rouse the attention of almost everyone, I think it would be wise to crack the case before a full-blown civil war breaks out between the entire world."
"Speaking of which though, Shugo..." Mira addresses him. "I thought you said you wanted to buy a longbow? Maybe you can do that first? And what's taking Alex so long...? Then again, the entire group is here in a way, ironically enough." But then another thought surfaces on her mind as her kind smile. Oh no. I just realised we also have the fire guy tied up and beaten down... how are we gonna explain this to her...?! Who's in charge of making sure he doesn't escape?!
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance)
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
"Sooooo.... are we going to try asking the guards to hold Cezars while we talk to Paulis or....?" Alex trails off when he realizes the whole group has suddenly gravitated to someone else. "Huh? What... oh." Apparently they saw someone who they know? Or... Mira knows? He looks down at Cezars, who he suddenly realizes is unattended to aside from him, and lets out a sigh. They really can't just keep dragging him around like this. Even with the risk, leaving him at the guard station seems like the best idea if they want to be able to go to Paulis unhindered.
After a moment, he tugs Cezars along with him and joins the others as they talk to the stranger. Sidling up to Mira, he says, "Uh... high! Do you know this woman Mira?" Hopefully they don't end up dragging this innocent person into everything else they have going on. He already feels bad enough about getting Simo's group involved in there... uh... well, everything. Putting on a wide smile, he holds out a hand to the tabaxi woman, "I'm Aleksandteri, but most people just call me Alexander or Alex. Its a pleasure to meet you!"
Alex is clearly the youngest of the group. He's wearing a white tabard with a yellow templar cross emblazoned on the front, as well as a royal blue cloak over his shoulders. His hair is bright blond and his eyes are bluer than his cloak. Basically, he looks like a stereotypical white knight out of a fairytale, well, if that white knight happened to be just a kid.
"Oh, you are looking for the artifact too? Alone? Wow that's brave," he rubs the back of his neck, still smiling and clearly fighting the burning desire to expand their group. What a perfect opportunity! Just like the stories, they could pick up another lone traveler and and more strength to their team! But... but... He can't just ignore the fact that they all have to go to court soon, and making this tabaxi an accessory probably isn't in her best interest. Oh Lord, Mira is already in deeper than he'd wanted her to be, but... maybe having people on their side who aren't in trouble with the law is a good thing? Still, he can't just expect this random lady he just met to be okay with what they are doing. "Well... we are going to go talk to Paulis as soon as possible... he's a really, really old tortle who should be able to help us with finding this artifact thingy. But... first..." He looks to Renar (since he seems to be the best at making plans so far), "I really think we should go ahead and see about leaving Cezars with the town guard. It doesn't make sense to just keep dragging him around if we don't have to, and bringing him right to Paulis doesn't seem like the best idea to me..."
He realizes that Liivi is probably wondering why they have this random fire genasi tied up, "Oh... uh... this guy is an Oathbreaker. He's been doing and trying to do some really bad stuff... and well, we tried to stop him so now we are kinda in trouble too. So we have him in our custody for now, but we've gotta take him to court so that we can get this whole mess sorted out. I know... you probably didn't need to hear that especially since you aren't from here but... Well, I would love to invite you to join our team since you are also looking for the artifact, I just don't know if having you join right before we go to court would be the best thing... heheh..." He gives an awkward chuckle, as clearly the situation bothers him...a lot.
After a moment he looks to the rest of the group and says, "So... anyways, even if we want to do some shopping before going to Paulis, we should probably do something with Cezars first. I mean... it's going to draw a lot of attention if we just pony him around like some sort of violent pack horse."
Liivi raises a brow as Mira mentions her mother. 'My goodness! Her mother is Duchess of Platone?' She honestly did not know a whole lot about Platone, other than it was nearby and a Duchess was pretty important! When the woman named Maya approaches though she is a bit confused. The other one - Mira had said they both wouldn't remove their hoods - spoke for the woman but repeated about the only part she had understood. Even Mira tried to explain. She isn't sure Maya would understand, but she feels that she ought to respond. "Um... is Dokodesu your son's name? Certainly not a name that I've heard. I'm not sure I would have known him if I had spotted him, but I don't think I've seen him."
Then finally the last of the group approached. Pulling an unconscious fire genasi along with him. 'Brave traveling alone?' she wonders as this bright blond boy mentions it. 'And why is this genasi tied up?' But then he mentions the artefact. And an old tortle Paulis that might have information? She definitely wants to tag along for that! As he then dismisses the idea of her joining them, she realizes she has to speak up. "Ah, it is quite good of you to have taken on an Oathbreaker and are bringing him to justice." Short on specifics, she doesn't see any reason to worry about that. The group will take him to court and justice will see to the rest. "I would be most pleased to join you though and aid your endeavor in what ways I can. As you said, traveling alone is not always easy."
"I don't have any need to visit a merchant. But I imagine I could assist with getting this Oathbreaker - Cezars - turned over to the guard." They already had seemed willing to welcome her to their group - especially Mira - but being helpful certainly wouldn't hurt either. "We can take care of both things at once and then go to see Paulis?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
He gives Liivi's hand a firm shake, vaguely wondering if this cat-lady is anything like the one he knows from back home. He doesn't comment on her mispronunciation of his name. He's been called wierder things... "Nice to make your acquaintance. Nemos eh?"
Shugo hadn't really intended on adding this cat-lady to their group. It seem a little unfair to just welcome her in right now when she'd definitely be getting tied up in a lot more than she'd probably like. With his last comment he'd actually been hoping to steer her away from the artifact....oh well. He snickers a little at Renar's reaction to his comment, then nods to Mira as a thought occurs to him. "Yeah, I'd like to see what the merchant has. Actually, If you Alex and our new friend Liivi want to take Mr. Hothead to see the guards, Renar and Maya can come with me to the merchant." As he says this he steps over to Renar and throws an arm over his shoulder. He hopes the 'changeling' understands what he's doing, as it has occurred to him that it might be best to keep Maya away from the guards with her speech issue and whatnot. On top of this, he doesn't particularly like the idea of possibly being taken prisoner, and if someone did get taken prisoner, it would be better if at least a few of them weren't captured. "Then after that, we can all go see Paulis. Sound like a plan?"
Renar
I had to blow a small raspberry outside of their lines of vision. Doko-desu... pfft. No way Okaa-san would christen me with the name 'Where'. Nemos... That's again another place I've never heard of. As much as I don't know what Prihyeh is, obviously too. So the leopard woman is coming with us? Great. Just what I need for my anxiety to spike. Shugo's not even taking my warning seriously. Damn it. My head already spinning from this unwanted socialization. How am I suppose to threaten him to leave me alone without saying a word, let alone get him off my shoulders?! Speaking of which, what was Shugo think when he tried to lump me in with those ladies?! Gah! Him forcefully including me in their stuck up conversation was the straw that broke the Oni's back. I forcefully tore his arm off my shoulder in response without saying a word. I know he's thinking: What are me and Okaa-san thinking of doing? How are we gonna manage it without the rest and whatnot? Well, seeing that we're so distorted, I need to make a decision that can get the entire group somewhere. Or at least, that's what I hope. Getting the guards to watch over, buying supplies, finding a tavern... It wouldn't hurt to split up, right? Someone needs to make the decisions, here. And it's usually me; The one who couldn't decide previously...
Taking a deep breath, I lock my eyes onto the rest as I spit out...
"Split up! Guards and supplies first, then tavern. Then we get out of here! I'm heading to the shops!" I silently hiss at Alex and bunny girl before I tug on Okaa-san's shoulder and lead her and Shugo away to buy some supplies. What I said sounded harsh but it was brief and easy for them to understand. I hope Alex and the bunny girl can take care of Stupid Rixi when me and Okaa-san can't. Also what's with the elf trying to drag me into another useless chit chat?! Can't we have some peace? Besides... I need to find somewhere to sharpen my katana as I tug on the sheath. Not even 2 weeks into this calamity and It's already becoming blunt...
Speaking of which, those guards over there don't seem trustworthy as the public eye seem to be. Or maybe it's just me. I can't tell, not when the two of us are dicing with death in a world we never wanted to return to; A world where us kitsunes are treated as monsters even when we don't act as so. "Okaa-san. Karera-me o hanasanaide kudasai (彼ら目を離さないでください, Keep an eye on them.) I don't trust those guards to watch over him..." I also whisper into her ear whilst I'm at it, already expecting the guards to let him off easy for some reason that I won't bother to explain because they won't listen.
Mira
The bunny chuckles again at Liivi willing to assist in whatever way she can. "Be our guest. We ain't a serious bunch despite looking so. If you have any needs that we need to pay attention to, let us know whilst we're at it." At Alex suggestion, she nods her head almost instantly as he finishes. "Great idea. We can perhaps split up for the time being to maximize efficiency. Then when we're all done we can meet up at the tavern that Liivi would help to find for us before we discuss our future plans." Though tiny in stature, Mira gestures Liivi to crouch so she can whisper into her ear a line from Act IV of Loveless: "My friend. Your desire is the bringer of life, the gift of the goddess. This rebellion thing, we can expand on it later if you want, when we sit inside the tavern. I want to know more of your side."
Almost immediately though, the bunny girl was forced to hear Renar's words of desperation before he blatantly leaves with Maya and Shugo. She folds her arms over his weirdness, thinking that Liivi must be unnerved by him in a way. "Eh. Don't mind him. He's always been like this. I think... I haven't really bothered to ask." Mira scoffs when Renar sourly hisses the nutshell plan and storms off with Shugo and Maya in tow. This hoodie couple must be hiding some secrets that they really don't want to tell, huh? Just like Shugo not wanting to reveal his hereditary sickness to the rest... But he's right. They need to keep on their feet rather than waste time chit chatting with the newcomer. "So uh... now that they've moved off um... I guess we go deal with the fire boy?"
If Alex does agree to dump Cezars with the guards: "Anyways, Alex... shall we finish the job?" The noble bunny turns to him and then to Liivi. "You're welcome to go with either of the two groups. I mean, we'll eventually be regrouping anyways so no biggie on who you go with, no pressure, heheh. Come on, Holy boy!" She'll wait for Alex to lead the way before she hops behind her on her two feet. Upon arriving at the guards, Mira clears her throat.
"Ahem... excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but..." She gestures to Alex (and Liivi if she does assist the duo) and makes eye contact with them. "You two wanna do the honours?"
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance)
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
"Oh... uh...." Alex smiles then rubs the back of his head when Liivi states that she'd like to join them. "That's great!" Normally he'd be overjoyed at having another comrade join the team, but right now he feels a little... well, like he's going to drag her into something she didn't sign up for. But, then again, God works in ways he can't understand so... Looks like they've got a new companion! "Welcome to the team Liivi!"
He raises an eyebrow when Renar seems to take Shugo's words the wrong way... something must be bothering the 'changeling' seems how he's been in a bit of a mood for the last couple days. Maybe he'll have to question him again later... or not, he'll just have to see what happens later. "Alright, I'll go with Mira and our new friend here to get Cezars behind bars." He might end up interviewing and instructing the guards a little... just to make sure they actually know how to keep Cezars contained... maybe, they'll just have to see what the place and the people look like.
"Right, meet you at the tavern then," he waves as Renar heads off with Maya and Shugo. Then he turns to Mira and Liivi again and says, "No way am I leaving you two with this Oathbreaker. Not that I don't think you could handle him," he chuckles. "But it's my duty to see that he doesn't escape."
He leads the way as best he can to the guard station, and tries to put on a professional expression as Mira gets the guards attention... which quickly fades into his usual demeanor as he says, "Uh... yeah. So I'm not sure if you guys have been notified or anything, but Cezars here is under arrest. We are going to take him to a trial in Madura. We would have come with some other guards but Cezars escaped and we had to chase him down..." He gives an in depth explanation of what happened, who the other guards were who initially arrested them only to let them go so they could take Cezars into custody again. He also explains that they are supposed to go talk to Paulis first, but that they don't think it would be a good idea to take Cezars with them, so they would like to leave him in prison for the time being. "We'll come back after we speak to Paulis," he finishes. "Then we'll take him so that we can attend the trial and see him brought to justice."
After part of the group heads off to find a merchant, Liivi follows Mira's gesturing and leans down to listen to her. She puzzles for a moment over the whispered words. 'I wonder what this goddess is? And she keeps talking of rebellion. Is this something her mother supports? Is that why she had been held captive?' Quickly though the rabbit-woman returns the conversation to the 'fire boy'. "I can help with the prisoner. I'd be glad to help. And guess I'll be keeping an eye out for a tavern too!"
Liivi steps forward, ready to help Alex with the fire genasi if he wishes her to. "I can help carry him. Or if you prefer, I keep an eye on him in case he awakens?" As soon as he's set, she moves off to find the guards. Then once there, she listens to what Mira has to say then looks to Alex as he speaks to the guards.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
For those going to the store.
The general store and the smithy are just a few streets away, their walls are painted white with a red roof. You can see a forge and an anvil outside, the interior must be where they sell weapons and camping supplies.
You walk into the store, and inside, you see all sorts of weapons on a display to the left part of the store, the right part is stacked with food, rations, and some tools. You're the only person here, there isn't a single person in the store, not even a cashier or a shop owner, but there is a calico cat sitting on a counter, looking at you.
The shelf is stocked with all sorts of food—pickled beetroot, onions, flour, and potatoes, all of them locally sourced and definitely 100% organic. There are also two Potion of Healing on a glass display.
The part with weapons mainly has polearms, but there is a shortbow and a longbow on display, exactly something Shugo needs.
The cat on the counter earlier jumps on a shelf and lands on Shugo's shoulder, "Need something?" She says. In other worlds, an animal speaking in Common might shock a lot of people, but in Lancea, familiars, Druids with Wildshape, and someone who got polymorphed still retain their ability to speak Lancea. Truly wild animals and semi-civilised creatures speak Alharisian, a distant relative to Lancean.
For those going to the guard's post.
The post is located in the other part of the town, it's a not-so-cosy wooden hut, there are cobwebs under the roof, moulds on the wall, and the wood itself smells funny. Nonetheless, you open the door and enter the building.
Of course, the interior looks about as bad as the exterior. There is mould in the corner, a bucket on the floor which holds water from the leaking roof, and a painting of a duck... that's it, that painting is the only decoration in this guard post. There is also a kitchenette to the left and one jail cell to the right.
A hooded half-elf, who appears to be the only guard here, is sleeping face-down on a table below the painting. Another person in this room, a middle-aged grey-furred Tabaxi, is also sleeping in the cell, face-planting on the floor. Judging by his tricorn hat and jacket, he must be a pirate, but this part of Kerwos is very far from the sea, how did they even get him here?
The half-elf slowly opens his eyes, he sees Cezars tied up on the ground and lets out a big sigh. "Again? What did he do this time?"
He listens to Alex's explanation, sleepily nodding along with him. "Yeah, no. Unfortunately, this cell is too small to hold two people, and we have a bigger fish to catch." He points to the Tabaxi. "This is Leevi, captain of the People's Navy—pirates who plunder Elmars' fleet. Under the Duke's order, he must be transported to the main prison in Madura as soon as possible, but unfortunately, the storm hits and everyone who patrols this area goes elsewhere to rescue flood victims, leaving only me to guard... that guy." Elmars the Aarakocra the duke of the current duchy you're in right now.
"Ahoy, mateys!" He was sleeping a second ago, and now Leevi is on his feet. He looks at Liivi, another Tabaxi like him, these two look somewhat alike due to their fur, but still different enough to tell that they are not related. "Mind helping a fellow feline out, lass?"
"Don't." The half-elf glares. "If we let him go, we will go around and go plundering again, you know what pirates are capable of."
"I wasn't asking ya, ye landlubber." Leevi hisses at the half-elf, "Besides, not all pirates are like that, ye know. My crew only steals from the rich and gives it to the poor, Elmars steal from the poor and give it to himself! Look at the room ye are in right now, if he cares about his soldiers, then he wouldn't leave this place in such a sorry state, and he also wouldn't let a madman like that fire Genasi roaming around, assaulting people! Rauna deserves a better ruler than him!"
"Just... Ignore him, guys. He's been spewing this crap ever since he got here... Order is order, we have to get him to Madura first, that's our number one priority right now. Cezars is a bit... unstable, but he does keep this country safe and secured, even if his method is a bit... unhinged." The half-elf looks down, "Well... that's what Elmars told me, at least. This is, like, my second week of working and I don't get to know everyone yet."
People's Navy is an ally of the People's Army, one is sea-based and the other is land-based. They're a group of freedom fighters who want to overthrow Elmars and replace him with their own leader, Zelta. They promise better equality and less tax for all of its citizens, they do steal from people, but like Leevi said earlier, they only target the rich.
By the way, Leevi and Liivi are technically the same name, one is masculine and the other is feminine, and both of them sounds similar to each other. Leevi was probably born in Nemos but gained permanent residence in Kerwos, hence the reason why he can get arrested without having to do massive paperwork on this.
Adolfs (Half-elf guard)
Leevi (Tabaxi pirate)
Astra (Cat)
"The universe we observe has precisely the properties we should expect if there is, at bottom, no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but blind, pitiless indifference."
—Richard Dawkins
DM—Stories From The End of The World: Episode I
Liivi gives Leevi a slight grin. "An interesting proposition sir. But I'm afraid I'm not here to free you, fellow feline or not." Admittedly, she's curious about this People's Navy and what this Duke Elmars might be doing. She might even be sympathetic to his cause. But it is really not her place to jump into a political dispute this far from home. And what is this about Cezars, seemingly working for the defense of the country. And he works with Elmars support it seems.
She then turns to Alex and Mira. "What exactly did this Cezars do? You called him an Oathbreaker; I presumed that meant he was some sort of traitor. But now the guard here isn't even interested in holding him?" She turns to the half-elf for confirmation. "That is basically what you are saying, right? You would just let him go for lack of space to imprison him?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Mira
Hearing the guards explain their nonsense about upon reaching that station, Mira couldn't help but give off an obvious shake in the head. "He keeps this country safe and secured, my ass. At least from the previous fight, that's what I thought. So you have encountered this jerk before? And you've dealt with his irrational behaviour? And you never bothered to even pursue him for all the things he's done? Well uh, you heard of this Adelaide that apparently is related to this guy? Even if you could set a prison for this victim, what if she uses her money to set him free again, huh? Then who's gonna keep this endless cycle in check?" What if Paulis is his next victim? She wanted to ask, but she had to eat those words.
At Liivi's question, Mira skeptically puts a paw to her chin. "Well uh, I don't exactly know what happened beforehand but as I said um... this jerk... plus his goons, a half-elf, some non-talkative gnome and a changeling apparently... um... They were responsible for my capture; They hung me on an ice stick. Almost froze to death! Did you know that he also actually tried to summon a demon from who-knows-where in our face?! I heard this poor group got entangled in his shenanigans... no..." She cracks her knuckles as steam can be observed coming out of her tiny head. "...rather that idiot also dragged me into his unwanted mess when I could've recited another poem for the audience! Has he not been taught any discipline or something?!" She pauses, thinking that Alex must have thought she was referring to her and quivers. "Oh! Uh- Not you, ehehe! The fire guy, I meant! I'm sorry-!"
Her mood worsens when she hears that their current prisoner is a part of some Navy trying to sabotage Elmars, who has a diplomatic relationship with her mother, even if appears hostile to her at times; But to see him not care for someone wreaking havoc in the shadows... that's another issue to be addressed too in a way. "Great. People's navy willing to sabotage Elmars, huh? Just what I needed to hear. At least if what he says is true, then..." She pauses as she attempts to reconsider her words. "...Um... actually... mother will be equally furious as I am especially if tensions rise because of this. Does that organisation ring a bell to you, holy boy? Wait... your stupid, useless trial is in Madura right?" There isn't really much she can argue for right now, to her than the fact that this prisoner is literally going straight to where these guys are supposed to head to after Paulis. But whilst this doesn't for her, something else did; The imprisoned feline knows... They know each other? Liivi and... another Leevi? "Wait... you two know each other... And have the same name?!" Mira gawks flabbergasted as she once again shudders from Liivi's intimidating presence.
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance)
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Alex stands there for a moment in silence, clearly contemplating the situation. The more he hears about Elmars, the less he likes the bird. For a moment, he turns his attention to Leevi, wishing he could let him know that he is friends with at least a few members of the people's army. Even if he doesn't agree with all their actions, he doesn't really think they are completely in the wrong. Even with everything that has happened, he does believe that it is important to respect laws and those who are in authority. But... sometimes, like when they first interfered with Cezars, following the rules isn't always what is right.
Then he laughs... perhaps not the best response, but he can't help it. This whole situation just keeps getting more and more muddled, "Really? Order is order? Look, I understand that this pirate has broken the law, but has he actually hurt anyone? I'm not saying people just just be allowed to go around doing whatever they want, but if I had to choose between taking Leevi to justice and taking Cezars, it would be Cezars. Even if I wasn't the one who witnessed everything, had my very life threatened by him, and helped catch him after he got away." He looks to Liivi, "Cezars is an Oathbreaker because he was a paladin, but he broke his oath. All he cares about is the law, which for some reason doesn't seem to keep him from hurting people. The only reason we got caught up in this mess was because we saw him wrongly accuse a merchant and ruthlessly beat her for no reason. That's just the bare minimum. He beats the elderly when they forget their passport. He burnt down an older woman's house, destroying the trees she's been propagating for years. He kidnapped an egg from a dragon and was going to perform a dark ritual on it. He summoned a demon and forced it to fight us against its will. And worst of all, he LITERALLY THREATENED TO KILL US!!! He might not have succeeded in taking our lives, but he definitely tried to commit the most heinous crime imaginable. If he had the chance he would again, and if he fought anyone weaker than he would have succeeded. And yet Elmars is content to let him run rampant? He'd rather focus on not listening to the people he's supposed to be governing fairly, and allow a ruthless Oathbreaker like this to terrorize them? Maybe if he actually cared about and listened to the citizens of his duchy, the Peoples Army and the People's Navy wouldn't be here!"
He sighs, shaking his head, "This world is such a mess... oh yeah, and Cezars is working with Adelaide to help some aliens come and take over the world. How's that for a reason to help us keep him locked up?"
He looks to Liivi, "So, that's just a few of the things this guy has done. He is supposed to be a guard who keeps the peace, but he just goes around abusing his power because he thinks that the law is everything and he has the right to enforce it however he sees fit. But he also broke his oath and has some sort of darkness in him. Plus, like I said, he's working with some really really bad people. Not sure why, or what he gains from it, but he is. And we have a witness," he gestures to Mira. "So we have loads of evidence against him. Hopefully the guards who initially arrested all of us show up, because they can testify too." He looks at the guard, "I have no intention of letting him go. He's coming to Madura with us and he is going to stand trial... not that I have much faith anymore that justice will be served. I also intend to notify the church of his current status as an Oathbreaker. Hopefully between everything going on, Elmars will have no choice but to throw this piece of scum into the deepest prison cell possible, where he can't hurt anyone anymore." His expression has gone dark--something that happens very very rarely with the usually jovial paladin. "I had just hoped that we'd be able to rely on the people who are supposed to protect this town to help us make sure Cezars doesn't get away while we go deal with unfinished business."
He looks to Mira, "I... don't think Liivi here knows Leevi. The names are just a coincidence... Right?" He glances at Liivi, his demeanor semi-shifting back to normal. "Plus you aren't even from this country, so it would be a bit of a stretch for them to have met already." He directs the last half of the sentence at Mira, hoping to clear up the confusion... if that's what this is anyways.
Then he looks at Adolfs again, his expression shifting to serious once more, "Look, I'm sorry this has been put on you right after you started the job, but sometimes hard decisions have to be made. My comrades and I have already been put in that situation once before thanks to this genasi. And you can see what choice we made." He pauses, "I'm not saying just let Leevi go. We can work something out. Honestly I'd rather bring the pirate to Paulis instead of dragging this dangerous individual around. But, the choice is yours I guess. Help us out, as well as all the innocent people here, or protect your job. I'm willing to back you up if something goes wrong, but I know my influence is small and my word can only go so far." He waits for a response, not expecting much.
Persuasion (if needed): 11
Shugo yelps sharply when Renar violently yanks his arm. Geez what was that for? All he was trying to do was get Maya away from the guards and Renar away from Mira since the two obviously don't care for each other much, and this is the thanks he gets? Before he can respond, Renar grabs him again along with Maya and starts dragging him away....Well at least he's not arguing with him.
Skipping slightly to regain his balance as the shifter pulls him towards the store, he looks back at Alex and the others giving them a smile and a thumbs up. After walking a few paces, he yanks his arm out of the fox-folk's grasp and jumps in front of him, "What the HECK was that? Don't you know I'm carrying an UNBORN CHILD! What would have happened if I'd fallen down or something?" He yells pointing at his pack. Then he falls silent...."Uuuuuh well that sounded weird."
Ignoring any odd looks he gets, he nonchalantly places both hands behind his head as he quickens his pace to keep up with Renar. "What HAS gotten into you? I get we all have secrets, and I really don't care if you keep yours, but that's no reason to be rude to your comrades." He purposely does not make eye-contact with Renar, and while he's staying true to his usual demeanor, his tone is mostly seriousness. "I get you're a bit of a lone wolf, but whether you like it or not we are all in this together. Even after the trial, as much as I would....and I'm assuming you feel the same.... like to drop this entire mess and focus on our own problems, I doubt we can walk away from any of this that easily."
Like Shugo, Maya yelps in surprise when her son forcefully drags her away from the pack in search of supplies. Ok, she gets that her son is feeling pressured but why the rather rude gesture?! Even when Renar spurts out the plan to the others, just hearing his tone, the way he spits it... that is so not like the Raiden she once knew. Though what the two of them are saying to each other is incomprehensible, just glancing at his recent behaviour plus the way he speaks is enough to deduce that she needs to teach her son some manners again, even if it goes against her peaceful way of living.
She pants deeply as he lowers her head for a minute with Shugo and Renar words echoing into her head, their thoughts overriding the peaceful nature swirling within her. Not wanting to see a conflict escalate between these two handsome men, the mama fox decided enough is enough. All of a sudden, she jumps in between the two bickering men, holds out both of her arms and extends her sharp claws in front of the two. "YAMETE! (やめて!) YOU TWO! Y-yamete...! (やめて...!) E... enough...!" She yells out in anguish, before immediately breaking her voice down into a shudder. An obvious conflict hater, the last thing she needs is for an elf noble she barely knows to get in a heated conflict with her son. She understands why her son is being so rebellious, she gets it. He's super uncomfortable with the new teammates. He's uncomfortable with how they're dragging him into these social situations. But he needs to remember: She's the same as him; She being dragged into this too, yet she isn't complaining about it so far. Why is he getting so heated up? Just because he doesn't know these people? In fact this is the first time that Maya has seen her son crack under pressure over an unexpected turn of events. If she needs to make him revert, she'll need to one day pry into his thoughts and find out what he's most worried about.
"Shugo-kun, Renar-kun... no!" Maya pants in broken Lancean. She turns to Shugo first, making a face that basically says "Stop pressuring Renar-kun and give him some space. You're scaring him!", hoping that Shugo can at least understand her since she cannot speak properly. Turning to Renar, she snarls at him too, except that this time, she does so with a dark, threatening aura around her, as if she's about to punish him extremely badly; No thoughts needed. Just a demonic-like, furious face plus the fact that knowing that her son will easily back down from something like this just like in the past.
Wildland Shifters Pt 2 (Pt 1 with PyromaniIsDeadThankGod)
Celci (The Lamb) - Non-Binary Changeling Sorcerer (Shadow Magic)
Maya Kurosaki - Female Kitsune Cleric (Twilight Domain); Currently in Lancea
Randy Wolftree - Male Human Artificer (Armourer); Currently in Crimson Sands of Time
Shijiro Otsune - Male Kitsune Blood Hunter (Order Of The Lycan)
Trojan Dseyller - Male Tortle Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian)
Xenia Ironhide - Female Kobold Rogue (Soulknife)
Renar
Now that we're out of sight, I had to vent out my anger and frustration towards the only person that Okaa-san cannot understand at this point. "What has gotten into me?! Says the one who had the nerve to pressure me at every obtuse angle when I was keeping my distance! I only stepped closer to help Maya-san! I knew what you intended to do after this and I said it for you, but did you really have to drag me into this chit chat when I least expected it?! You could've laid it off with you forcing your arm onto my shoulder and drawing me closer!" I steel myself as Shugo also recoils when he says something weird; Kinda like how much I do the same ironically but still...! "My point proven: I honestly don't care about you carrying that egg... or that baby dragon or... whatever! If you want to sound like a father then be my guest! But... The way you spoke... even just now, you've already... When you said you sounded weird... That's why I wanted to move on! You all... when... I at least try to reason with you guys, you keep taking it as something else! It's as if I'm speaking another language, which in turn, spikes my anxiety!" I take moment to pause, my golden eyes glowing with hatred. With distrust. I don't know how I managed to contain my anger into a whisper all of this time, but I'll take it nonetheless. If this was Okaa-san, she obviously hear the pain in my words, the voice crack, the stutters, every single clue about my inability to deal with strangers I don't know. "What... w-w-what I just spoke... I... would you rather I'd create another unnecessary conflict? Would rather I say something that can potentially upset our new member, or anyone, including you?! I'm ok with having another member with us but not when i have to be included in something that I don't want to join." I breathe heavily as I again, experience a reel of awful memories flashing in my head. "I... I had so much I wanted to say to you guys but... with all of this pressure coming from you all, it's really hard for me to speak up. It's hard for me to speak properly! I'm scared if I say the wrong thing... I... Would you rather I cause trouble when I didn't mean to?!" My claws suddenly sharpen as I move in closer to his face; It was at this point I could feel myself slowly losing my sense of reasoning.
"You think... just because I don't speak the same way as you guys, just because I think differently from you... you have the guts to-!" I already envision myself and Shugo shredding each other apart, until I notice something, or rather, Okaa-san stepping between the two of us all of a sudden. Wait... why is she so... Oh no...! This is bad! Okaa-san is mad. I can already see the dreadful aura coming from her entire body; My life is already flashing before my eyes as I envision her dealing a fatal punch to my stomach just like the last time I fought her. "O... Maya-san...?!" I yelp as I immediately withdraw from arms length. She know, doesn't she? That I'm... that I'm losing my mind. Standing in absolute silence, I take moment to pause and reconsider what I've just been doing if I don't want Okaa-san to become the monster that everyone fears... Actions speak louder than words... and they hurt as much as the latter. At this point my surroundings become blank, my shudders, alongside Shugo's can be clearly heard. Neither of us want conflict, but at the same time, we sound like we enjoy it, even though we didn't mean it. At least, that's what I assume on my end.
My thoughts swirl to Rixi, Ethan and Yuri, the three people who care for the most ever since I was found as a lost, and almost unhinged kit, if they had to deal with me in this state. Rixi as a Fire Genasi would've burnt me to a crisp when provoked, even though he's a really timid boy just like me. Yuri, being a Gumiho with brute strength, would've slapped me so hard she could've broken my skull. Ethan doesn't resort to violence, but just hearing the Simic's low and threatening voice unnerves me... Snapping back to reality, I turn back to Shugo with a disdained squint. He must be thinking: 'What's been surfacing on my mind? Why am I acting so weird when I'm in fact, trying to steer everyone out of harm's way? Why don't I talk normally? Why doesn't Okaa-san talk normally? Do I even understand his viewpoints? Would I want to?' And so many more questions I can possible think of but don't want to. Well... We haven't known each other for even a month. So I can't really say. But... seeing that he needs answers from me, I take a moment to breathe again as I speak to him softly... "From my perspective, it seems like we've only agreed to team up because of this artefact nonsense. I was hoping we could do something more like, you know, getting to know each other slowly. Maybe learn more about each other, find common round outside of this step by step, rather than to constantly pressure each other and constantly make false assumptions, even though that's what I've been doing, I'll admit. I guess I was wrong..." I sigh with regret in my tone.
I scan my surroundings one last time; Bunny girl, Alex and the leopard lady are outside of my current vision. Shugo must be misunderstood, Okaa-san's incredibly mad right now... I didn't have a choice. Whether it be ripping up Shugo or getting ripped up by Okaa-san, I had to accept defeat in my mind; I turn away from Shugo's irritated demeanour as I walk off to find something.... something that could take my mind of this, though I did give him one last moment of words to express part of my truth. "You want to know why I'm like this? Fine. I'll tell you something, but not all of it: all those years I've spent facing discrimination, torture, distrust and loneliness, those memories have crept back to haunt me. Both me and this odd lady here, we've been through the same thing despite not having known each other until now. That's what I was reminded of, whenever I try to de-escalate things. When I try to make things better rather than to worsen it. That's why we never trust easily." That's why I feel scared, even as I walk past the two into the stores hoping that the situation won't escalate. "Even if I did share, even if the lady lets me explain what's bothering the two of us... and why we're both acting so weird to you guys, you guys don't look like the types to believe, let alone understand us. You never will. Is that what you're also thinking when you see the two of us?" I know he has secrets of his own too, but at least I don't pressure him like he does to me. Sort of. I don't want to hear an answer from Shugo at this point. Not now at least. But I hope he can at least consider what I said for real, as much as I'm doing my best to consider his. "Besides, we're wasting time. Let's get in there." "Besides, we're wasting time. Let's get in there."
Entering the weapons shop, I speak to a merchant before Shugo could do so just so we can get this out of the way; Also I wanted to correct my wrongdoings towards him earlier. "Pardon me, but do you have a longbow for our friend here? I heard he's in need of one right now. And uh... do you happen to have any enchanted swords... or are able to enchant weapons?" I'm not expecting her to have what we're looking for, but it's still a start. What else? Um... Oh that's right. Food; Okaa-san needs them I can tell. "Also, is there somewhere we can perhaps, um... obtain some rations? We don't intend to stay here for long, so we need to stock up on food."
The Wildland Shifters
Daisy Ethalena - Female Wood Elf Ranger (Monster Slayer)
Ethan Wolftree - Male Simic Hybrid Warlock (The Hexblade)
Mira Laurits - Female Harengon Sorcerer (Clockwork Soul); Lancea
Raiden Kurosaki - Male Kitsune Wizard (Bladesinger); Lancea
Rixian Nishinoya - Male Fire Genasi Paladin (Oath of Vengeance)
Tenebris Amaro - Male Dark Elf Druid (Circle of Stars)
Yurime Hanasaki - Female Kumiho Bard (College Of Creation)
Liivi feels a bit of relief as she hears the list of offenses heaped upon Cezars. First and foremost, Mira reveals that this fire genasi was the one that kidnapped her! And then the list of assaults Alex gives seems to confirm it. The information at least helps her feel like she was right to believe what they'd said about their captive. She again turns to look at the half-elf guard unsure what it is that makes him so steadfast about not getting him into custody.
It is then that she hears Mira seem to suggest that she knows Leevi. Alex seems to correct the rabbit-woman, but then seems waver, asking for confirmation. "Of course it's a coincidence about the names. I do not know Leevi; we have never met before. And I have already indicated that I do not intend to help him." Her voice is calm, she knows these others will have doubts, seeing as they have all just met. 'I just questioned why they have Cezars all tied up. It will take some time to really build any trust,' she thinks.
She then listens as Alex attempts to convince the guard to help them. She adds her own plea. "Surely you have heard what these two have said about this fire genasi's actions. As Alex here has said, you need not release the pirate. But would you at least work with us so that we can figure out a solution together?"
(Persuasion, if needed: 23 - rolled on character sheet)
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Shugo immediately shrinks back in shock and confusion when Renar starts yelling back at him. Even considering his violently yanking the elf's arm, Shugo wasn't expecting the normally quiet boy to explode like that. Raising his hands defensively, he stutters, "P-pressure you? What? No one is pressuring you to do anything? Well Mira might but--" Renar cuts him off before he can say any more, so he clamps his mouth shut and just takes in the kid's words. He really thinks Shugo and the rest of the party are trying to force him into interacting? Really? Is just mentioning him in a conversation with someone else considered pressure to him? Reason with them? What? Since when had anyone been anything but reasonable? Shugo is completely confused by all of this, but then again he really hasn't spoken with Renar all that much. Though up until now, he'd thought that Renar and himself had a similar way of thinking. He still does, as most of the time, they both seem to come up with relatively similar plans. Heck, they even seem to have had similar opinions towards recruiting that tabaxi.
When Maya steps between the two of them, he reflexively shrinks behind her as Renar continues his rant. There's a long moment of awkward silence before Renar makes his final comments. After which Shugo straitens back up slowly. He can't disagree with what Renar said. Other than maybe Alex, the group really had come together just because of that artifact. He feels a pang of guilt in remembering he'd pretty much just joined them because they could be potential body shields if they got into anything super sticky. Though now, he'd thought they had become more of a team at this point. Apparently he had been very very wrong in thinking that. Slowly, he speaks up with a nervous smile on his face. "Alright. I'm sorry if you feel pressured, but I wouldn't have known you felt that way if you hadn't told me just now. I can't read your mind, and neither can anyone else. We can't learn anything about each other if we never talk you know? Lack of communication is the breeding ground for false assumptions." He rubs the back of his neck not making eye contact. "And for the record, I don't have a problem with the way you talk." He falls silent, unsure if he should say any more since Renar clearly doesn't want to talk to him. Though if he could, he'd reassure Renar that even if he said something 'wrong' it really wouldn't matter. Despite Renar thinking that he and Shugo are two completely different people who will never understand each other. They do seem to be two sides of the same coin in Shugo's book. While Shugo didn't have to deal with discrimination based on his race, he has been discriminated against in different ways by his own kin no less just because of how he acts and what he believes. While the elf is not easily hurt by that sort of thing by the general crowd and other nobility, the disdain shown to him by his siblings and parents does weigh on him at times.
He gives Maya and apologetic and appreciative look, as the trio enters the store. He follows behind Renar, obviously trying to give him some space. At this point everything Renar said has actually had time to sink in, even that part about him trying to act like a father....boy what he'd said earlier came out wrong. He hadn't meant that at all, he would be more than happy to get rid of that egg, he just doesn't want to be responsible if anything bad happens to it.
He's spurred out of his daze when Renar asks about the longbow for him. Maybe even though he'd made Renar mad, this will turn out for the better? He at least understands Renar a bit better now, hopefully they can put all this behind them. Replacing his expression of shock with his usual grin again, he nods along with Renar's words. Heh, once again it seems like the 'changeling' has had the same thought he had. They definitely need rations. A growl from his stomach reminds him that he hasn't eaten since they'd set up camp in that badger home last night. Though if he can help it, he'll be eating a nice fresh meal from the tavern after this.
He looks around the store, he hadn't thought about enchanted weapons but that was a good question. Though he doubts a small town like this would have someone who could do that. He wouldn't be surprised if these people don't even have a longbow with the state the place is in. "If you don't mind my asking, do you happen to know if anyone has gone to talk with Paulis recently?" He asks after Renar has finished speaking.