With the visage of this "Twig" girl disappearing into mist, and with the sudden appearance of this drow from the tavern.. How convenient he is to arrive as we've done the workRowarin thinks to himself. Rowarin comes to terms that the fight is over, and that it is safe to return to a normal form. Turning away from the others, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, bringing into focus clarity of thought - and thus ending the transformation.
Turning to his comrades, "I have to say, we seemed to work well in synchronization there. Was that the girl we were supposed to find or is the real one out there somewhere?"
He leans against the wall, checking over his wounds.
Leeta, who has finished cleaning herself, observes from her seated position everyone's reactions after the battle. Her amber eyes move from Mizu and Mina - who are explaining to Kulogall what has happened - to Rowarin - that has turned back from his ... celestial? .... pressence to his normal self - and then to Rixian - who seems in the process of recovering himself from his very own inner turmoil. Then they follow Mizu as he walks back to stand next to her again.
When Somalands on her shoulder the still silent monk can't help but smile, and as the white-as-snow hawk rubs her little head against her cheek, the halfling presses the bird's head gently with her hand, returning the tender gesture. This seems to give the monk what she needs to stand up and talkto the water genasi. She does so pretty quietly.
- For the longest of times it's been Jezza, me and you. There, at my core. At the middle of my inner pond- they've talked several times about this, so the water genasi knows this is how Leeta refers to her spirit, her font of strengh, as the Skydancer taught her since she was an infant - I just ... wasn't ready to see you leaving that core so soon after we've reached this place.
Mizu, who's known Leeta since almost forever, knows that she was abandoned as a baby and that Skydancer Jezza found her, took her in and cared for her both as a father and as a monk mentor. A curious mixture of a drow stepfather and a halfling child. It is possible that everything that has happened since they started running after Twig has resurfaced that dark spot that lives within her mind, buried deeply most of the time. And it's nobody's fault. It's just what has happened. And while he knows this, Mizu knows too that his friend has been taught to fall down seven times and stand up eight. She'll defintely have fully shaken off all of this after a good rest.
Leeta then places a hand in Mizu's forearm - next to where he's cauterized the plant dog wound with fire. Her tanned skin does stand out against his paler one as she leaves her hand there for a couple of seconds. The halfling knows that fire doesn't hurt him more than any other kind of damage just because he belongs to a water race. But it is really curious that he has needed fire to cauterize the wound, given what his relationship to the party's fire genasi has been up to now.
After this, the mini monk will be more than ready to leave for a well deserved night's rest. She'll want to inform the kids on what has happened as soon as possible, but knowing that they are safe in their house it looks that it can wait until tomorrow. In fact, now that the confrontational Twig will not be there, perhaps the kids will allow Lilliana, from the StoneDog, to check on them every once in a while? That might be enough.
On their way to the Inn, when she passes next to Kulogalland Mina, Leeta will stand in front of the triton and say:
- You owe me a HUGE orange juice! - she then turns to Mina with a smirk, and asks - Am I right!? - The triton probably won't understand why, but despite this, he can feel that everything is fine with the mini monk and that she's only joking. And she really does like orange juice, right?
Then, walking past Rixian, the monk stops in front of him, places an open hand over a closed fist and bows, offering him a big smile. Leeta does like the fiery one, specially now that he's seems to be in better terms with the water genasi that is her best friend.
To Rowarinshe says:
- I agree! We can do great things together. Also ... you were amazing, Rowarin! A-MA-ZING! - Regarding Twig she adds - Hmmm, I hope the real one is out there and that we can still find her safely.
To the drow, Leeta doesn't add much else. Minaand the rest have that pretty well covered.
The drow gives Rixian an odd look as the genasi appears to be having a migraine. Then he gives the ganasi a flat look when he states that he doesn't look familiar. "If you're talking about that girl, no that was not the real one. Those phantoms are some kind of illusion."
When Mizu starts asking questions, he opens his mouth to respond, but turns his silver gaze to Mina as she also starts questioning him. Sheathing his rapier, he almost tosses the torch but thinks better of it. "We have no reason to assume any of the victims are dead." He growls. "I have my reasons for keeping quiet earlier. For one, if you haven't noticed, more than half this bloody town has their brains addled by some sort of witchcraft. I'm no mage, but I wasn't about to spill whatever information I had to someone who could potentially be a vessel for the one responsible for this mess." He waves a hand at the dust, and glances at Mizu, "Yes, I know of those things. They come after me practically every other night. At first I thought it was just because I'm and elf, but no. I've reason to believe those things target anyone who knows to much."
As Soma scouts the roads to the inn and to the children's hideout, she finds nothing noteworthy. The dim streets are completely devoid of any plant monsters.
After her harsh words to the newcomer, Mina starts scrounging through the ashes in the alleyway. She can confidently say, there are no roses left here.
Silently, whilst rising with shaken feet embedded on the pavement, Rixian did nothing in response to the drow's remark other than shoot back a suspicious glare. So is she alive or not? What the drow just blurted out sounded rather vague to him. It was an illusion all this while? Was Twig actually the one behind all of it or was someone pulling the strings? He'll have to dive into this in his own time, or if everyone insists on investigating any further. Preparing to head to the inn in silence, the fire genasi was then suddenly interrupted by two things, one painful, one... respectful? Or... acknowledging? He can't tell but...
"Ow!" He yells out as Soma pulls on his hair. That actually hurt him, both physically and mentally. Seriously what on earth did he do to her?! And... he left her master alone, even he actually had a million excuse not to do so. Geez! But then all of a sudden, the next thing is molten eyes meet is the tiny monk Leeta, bowing towards him as if she was bowing towards her master. Uh... well, that what he assumes, plus he's too young and too unfamiliar to be her master after all, unless if he perhaps resembles someone she knows. Even so, the young paladin, confused at her gesture, decided to bow back, hands by his side, but couldn't really smile back after what happened; After all, in Japan, whether you win or lose a fight, you always bow to your opponent as a gesture of respect.
On the way to the inn, Rixi stays at the back again and recaps what happened in the fight and how on earth he almost gave himself up to the demon of vengeance that laid dormant until now. If this was the first fight and he's already growing increasingly unstable, then the upcoming fights will be worse and more gruelling for him. Either he needs to pull himself together, or succumb to it; Either way his oath has to be cleared one way or another. His emotions, swirling in an ocean of uncertainty and doubt, began muddling themselves up, one after another. On the outside, his face morphs from a wretched grimace, to a half-sleeping sigh and then to a gasp of shock every 3 minutes, before repeating the cycle. Often, there would be times where he feels like he wants to cry, but he's all grown up. To him, real men don't cry unless if they lose someone they value... at least, to him it is.
Also, he doesn't know if it's because of the waters or his mental instability, but he knows that, somehow, his perseverance, his aspirations to lead again, are slowly beginning to fade...
Mizu's blank expression wavers slightly at Leeta's words. Sure, he knows she'll bounce back after a good rest, and that she doesn't blame him for what happened but... well, he blames himself. He tilts his head downward as she touches his cauterized arm, "I'm sorry. I should have been stronger." He can't go falling prey to such spells if he wants to avenge his family and continue to fight alongside Leeta. This... clearly bothers him a lot. It kindled unwanted thoughts and memories. Things that he's tried very hard not to think about during missions and everyday life. Things he only brings to memory when he needs to remind himself what he's fighting for.
His gaze jerks towards Rixian when the fire genasi shouts due to Soma's playful (but perhaps a little too rough) gesture. He raises an eyebrow at the hawk as she circles over Kullogal before heading off, then shakes his head at her once she's out of sight. It takes him a moment to register Leeta's interaction with Rixian, and he hesitantly follows suit. He walks over to the paladin, cold eyes fixed on him for a moment before offering a bow of his own. His is much simpler, one arm crossed over his chest as he bends at the waist, though before he rises he says, "We were fortunate to have your flames on our side." He hesitates, then stands and looks Rixian in the eye. For a moment, it seems that he might say something else, but instead he turns his gaze back in the direction that Soma had flown, "Soma has taken a liking to you." When she'd 'pulled' Rixian's hair, she was really just trying to ruffle it like a mother might do to a child. But, being a hawk, the motion was awful similar to how she'd swoop down and grab her prey.
Mizu stands there for a moment, spacing off as he consider's the drow's words. They target those with too much knowledge? Hmm, well he can't argue with the dark elf's logic. Either way, they'd best make their way back to the inn. Exhaustion slowly hits him, and he lets out a long breath... which seems to release all the energy he'd gained from adrenaline during the battle. He tilts his head up slightly, shutting his eyes and letting his hair fall back as he momentarily blocks out the carnage around him. Then he shakes his head and says, "The path to the inn is clear, perhaps it would be better to talk there." His eyes, now showing weariness flick towards the drow questioningly, indicating that he has further questions, and knows that his comrades will also have further questions as well. Mainly, how did he end up here just in time to witness the end of the fight?
If anyone asks about the kids, he'll say that they seem to be safe currently. He'll stand by his personal belief that it would be better to leave them be for the night, unless someone really wants to break the news to them now.
He walks with Leeta, avoiding eye contact with everyone else for now. There are a lot of things running through his head at the moment. Some related to the past. Others related to the fight and... well, Rowaran is an aasimar... not to mention Rixian's current behavior. Perhaps he should have said more to his other companions, express his gratitude and respect towards them, but... he feels he's exhausted his words for today. Hopefully they can see past his blank expression and recognize those feelings.
Still, other thoughts focus on the disappearances, and Twig. They have to figure out what's going on here, but can they do it without tearing themselves (and each other) apart?
The last thing he wants is to see his past repeat itself.
He tilts his head downward as she touches his cauterized arm, "I'm sorry. I should have been stronger." He can't go falling prey to such spells if he wants to avenge his family and continue to fight alongside Leeta.
- You are strong, Mizu. And you'll get stronger. We'll all do better from now on, you'll see! - Leeta answers, this time offering the water genasi a smile.
Smile which widens considerably when Mizu follows her bow to Rixian. She looks with proud eyes from one genasi to the other, and her expression is way more relaxed when they begin walking towards the inn. There was still much to be done in Withermore, many mysteries to uncover and - surely - hard fights ahead, but the mini monk suddenly feels more hopeful and stronger, and Rowarin's words resonate once again in her mind. They make a damn fine team!
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Leeta's words of kindness take Rowarin a little by surprise... "Oh, wow thanks. You were pretty bad ass yourself. I know I wouldn't want to get in the way of those fists of yours!"
The drow from earlier confirms that Twig was but an illusion, and likely the real one is out there somewhere. OK, definitely not going back there tonight. We can resume our investigation tomorrow Rowarin thinks to himself.
Rowarin follows the group back towards the Stone Dog, listening to each compliment the other in their prowess of battle. Amazing to see how everyone has gelled so well together already - though Rowarin suspects that this was not the biggest threat they will face. True testament shall be found in the direst of battles - something his old Captain would recite during their gruelling battle drills.
"You all have unique battle capabilities I must say, strong and fierce yet almost majestic. I'm glad that we are all OK, I think knowing we worked well makes the uneasiness of what is to come that much easier to bear."
Leeta seems to jokingly jest about having the largest orange juice when we get back to the inn. That puts a smile on Rowarins' face "Here here to that - I can already taste the ale that has my name on it!"
As they trudge towards the inn, Rowarin starts to ponder if he can make sense of anything he saw this evening. Was there any clue or identifiable piece of information that he can recall from what was witnessed in the forest, the sensations felt, the magics used here... something that can give them the edge towards finding the source of these bizarre occurrences..
Mina smiles back at Leeta, "Oh for sure he owes you a large orange juice." and she playfully elbows the triton as they head on to the Inn. When she sees Leeta and Mizu bow to the paladin, she doesn't get what is going on, wonders if it had anything to do with what they did when they chased after the girl or what, but decides not to inquire.
The drows words sink in... no reason to assume any of the victims are dead.
As they walk back, she'll drop in step with the drow (assuming he is with them), "Could we share information now? They are after you every other night? Stay with us and you should be more protected. This whole thing... it's way more than I anticipated. Have you found a blood red rose at victim's locations? I found it odd we didn't there."
The drow hesitates as the party starts heading back to the Stonedog. After a few moments, he starts to follow. When Mina falls in step with him, he doesn't seem any more pleasant than he did earlier. "Since I know you're not charmed or whatever, yes. We can share information. Just not here, or anywhere with prying ears...and especially not near that blasted high elf." As he walks, he continuously scans the rooftops and side alleys. Clearly he doesn't trust Soma's eyes alone. "Yes, so long as it's not where the sun can touch it, there is always a rose wherever someone disappeared. As for back there, tch well if that even was the same location where the girl was taken I doubt the plant would have survived with all those flames being thrown around. Anyways, if you want to talk it can wait until morning, we'll just have to do so in one of your rooms at the inn. Some of your companions clearly need a break."
Without any interference, you all make it back to the Stonedog. Entering, you note that most of the guests have gone home. However, Bill is still behind the counter cleaning up a few things, and Cassian is back at his table. Though it appears that Elenor has gone to bed. Cassian nods to the party, and the dark elf shoots him a glare before stalking over to Bill. "Has Zale come back yet?"
Bill looks up, "If she did, I didn't see her."
The drow grits his teeth and looks towards the door, then back at the party. Clearly he's thinking about leaving.
For a few minutes, Kulogall seems out of it, looking up with a wan smile when the others give him reassurances, he remains bewildered by it all. Walking back to the inn, still not himself, he smiles back at Leeta, saying “I’ll have them get an extra LARGE orange juice for you….” He pauses for a minute, thinking, remembering… “I… I hurt you back there, didn’’t I? Something, I can’t quite remember, it’s all a blur… if I did, I’m sorry, Leeta. It’s all so fuzzy…”. He walks onward in silence, trying to process what has happened. When Soma flies by he manages a smile, but otherwise, he seems lost in his thoughts.
As he walks into the inn, he hears the Drow talking, meeting for further discussion and sharing of information sounds good, Kulogall nods along with that. When he mentions Zale and sees the reaction, there is a pull and a consideration of what to do, but Kulogall appears tired and in no shape to go on another errand just yet. He turns to Mina and Leeta and says “Have a drink with me? I don’t know that I can face another one of those… things… just yet.” He smiles and the tall triton looks at the ground, the wind out of his sails, he appears embarrassed that he was so weak that he could not see through the girl’s illusions…
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A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
He tilts his head downward as she touches his cauterized arm, "I'm sorry. I should have been stronger." He can't go falling prey to such spells if he wants to avenge his family and continue to fight alongside Leeta.
- You are strong, Mizu. And you'll get stronger. We'll all do better from now on, you'll see! - Leeta answers, this time offering the water genasi a smile.
Behind the pack, Rixi could obviously notice the commotion, especially Leeta and Mizu's. His hatred for the latter's kind still runs strong, but, the former herself isn't one. So, he needs to quell himself for the time being and just... work in the shadows. If you can't beat them, join them, it is.
Though, as he looks on towards the duo whilst he stows his polearm behind his back, his jealousy suddenly overwhelms every other emotion that has been floating aimlessly like capsized objects in an ocean. Seeing this momentary bond between him already reminds him of his kind and gentle group, the one he had lead throughout several major campaigns, the one he had turned into a massive powerhouse that's well known throughout the Sword Coast. He misses each and every one of them already, from the sarcastic but witty Shijiro to the non-nonsense but selfless Tenebris and then over to the ruthless-on-the-outside, but vulnerable-on-the-inside... Daisy... there's just something, as he arches his head down in regret as he walks, something special in all of them. Something they hold, which could fill in his own empty void whenever he's down. Things that this current group cannot at the moment. And... huh? Is someone calling him? No wait-
He walks over to the paladin, cold eyes fixed on him for a moment before offering a bow of his own. His is much simpler, one arm crossed over his chest as he bends at the waist, though before he rises he says, "We were fortunate to have your flames on our side." He hesitates, then stands and looks Rixian in the eye. For a moment, it seems that he might say something else, but instead he turns his gaze back in the direction that Soma had flown, "Soma has taken a liking to you." When she'd 'pulled' Rixian's hair, she was really just trying to ruffle it like a mother might do to a child. But, being a hawk, the motion was awful similar to how she'd swoop down and grab her prey.
Rixi jolts upon hearing Mizu's soft-spoken voice and jerks his head back up. And that's when he notices him bowing as well. Though he does squint after recalling his awful childhood, for some reason though this young Water Genasi appears to be more mild-mannered and gentle than what Rixi thought; Most Water Genasi, Sea Elves, Tritons or any other aquatic races he encounter would deliberately disown him on sight and provoke him into a deadly fight. This one is different. What's up with his tame attitude? Has he gone through a similar past just like himself? Has an aquatic race perhaps warned the young water genasi of the paladin in the past and has told him to act like this if the two crossed paths? Is that why he hasn't lashed out yet? He's very uncertain even as he bows back. Then again, if Leeta appears to be his companion, he better make sure he doesn't disrespect her through him. So, whilst confused, he bows respectfully in silence again. Hopefully he doesn't give the wrong impressions like last time...
'We were fortunate to have flames on our side'. That's definitely something that Ethan would say, being the first friend who understands him deeply. And in that same, non-violent tone that Mizu himself used too. Rixi can make out some uneasiness in Mizu just by observing his tense body. Maybe he has gone through a similar past after all. He sighs. Other than that there isn't anything else he could make out over his current mood, so again he says nothing. But, looking at Mizu's back... those hooked sabers. He widens his eyes in awe as recognises them as the Shuang Gou, the swords that can hook onto each other to attack. Subarashī. Watashi wa shitto shite imasu (すばらしい。私は嫉妬しています, Amazing. I'm actually jealous) He thinks. He had always dreamt of wielding this legendary pair instead of the unwieldy, double-edged polearm he uses today. Well, at least this water warrior is reassuring. Sort of. Better than having to trigger his demon again for sure...
Also... what? That's how Soma says she's taken a liking to him? By pulling his hair painfully? He squints in response; This really reminds him of that time where the Wildland Shifters passed by a flock of hawks on the way to Daggerford, only for all of them to hear Yurime scream like the berserk kumiho she once was when they started pulling her long, white, silky hair and caused her to eat one of them for lunch. It wasn't a good memory, let alone one he should be reminded of. "Could've just landed on my shoulder... like the first time..." He mutters almost inaudibly, especially once his opposite moves further in front of him such that he will most unlikely catch up to him by the time he steps foot into the inn.
Though, apart from Leeta, there was actually another person that did stand out for him during the fight. And that was Rowarin. During the fight his transformation into an Aasimar did catch Rixi by surprise, and he was blinded as a result. But other than that plus the fact they briefly teamed up to rip down the plant dogs, that was it. Now that the battle is over, this would be a pristine opportunity to redeem himself for his past blunders. It's been a while since he last saw an Aasimar in fact. He remembers all the failed attempts he tried to recruit at least one of this majestic race into his team, let alone establish a mutual friendship with one of his kind. So maybe, just maybe, as the Fire Genasi Paladin becomes the last to step into the inn, he could actually get to know not only him, but Leeta as well, to take his weight off his shoulders. He then raises his left hand to try and gesture to Rowarin. "Hey. You wanna-"He begins, only to witness him heading over to the bar counter with everyone else and hangs in his own spot. After 1 minute, he drops his hand and grimaces, knowing that he's long occupied with another matter.
Whatever. If he doesn't want to chat with him, he doesn't. Go ahead and make him relive his failed past with them. Not that it matters anymore... Silently in defeat, the paladin slowly turns his back on the rest and strides towards one of the couches that are currently concealed by the dark shadows. Whilst he's appreciative for a meaningful chatter, greatly appreciates solitude even more than that. At 19 years old, he's old enough to have a drink, but he's never been an avid fan of it. So instead he just sit down and... overhears... something...
Without any interference, you all make it back to the Stonedog. Entering, you note that most of the guests have gone home. However, Bill is still behind the counter cleaning up a few things, and Cassian is back at his table. Though it appears that Eleanor has gone to bed. Cassian nods to the party, and the dark elf shoots him a glare before stalking over to Bill. "Has Zale come back yet?"
Bill looks up, "If she did, I didn't see her."
Zale? Another one? Right... so he's sort of correct. There must be more than one person connected to this mysterious matter it seems as he raises his eyebrow. MAybe there is something he could do to pass the time after all before he sleeps in a room all by himself. Or maybe with Leeta and Rowarin too, who knows.
Whilst the rest are busy relaxing near the counter, Rixian for the moment isolates himself in a dark, secluded corner, just like the shy teen he has always been until it's time to get a dorm of his own. If anyone tries to talk to him, he won't respond for the moment, given how shaken he is. However, that doesn't mean he stops gathering info where he can; This is an opportunity for him to listen in on anything those guys have to offer as he fiddles with his pendant and stares at his dead, cracked phone in silence; Whatever facts and details his teammates cannot pick up, Rixi will be sure to regather the scraps left behind... in the shadows.
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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)
As they trudge towards the inn, Rowarin starts to ponder if he can make sense of anything he saw this evening. Was there any clue or identifiable piece of information that he can recall from what was witnessed in the forest, the sensations felt, the magics used here... something that can give them the edge towards finding the source of these bizarre occurrences..
Investigation: 27
The most obvious asset you have against this threat is fire, you are also more than certain that these creatures do not like light of any sort. Striking during the day would probably give you advantage, so long as you have an idea of where to strike. Now that you've gotten a closer look at the magics used here, it's clear that that conjuration and Enchantment magics are at play even without casting detect magic. Something had to be summoning and controlling the plant dogs after all. However, you have a suspicion that Necromancy may be involved as well.
Thinking back to your time near the forest, you think it's pretty obvious that something didn't want you there. It's safe to say that's where the 'boss lair' is.
In response to Leeta's encouragement, Mizu... well he just nods. Leeta knows him well enough to realize that a smile from him is few and far between, and that he isn't the type to feign expressions in attempt to make someone else feel better. Yet his lack of response or expression doesn't mean that he has no appreciation for her words, or that he is skeptical. If anything, he knows them to be true. After all, they were both trained to get back up and keep fighting, even when others might give in. He'll get stronger. He doesn't have a choice.
After his brief exchange with Rixian, Mizu hesitates, though is seemingly unfazed by the paladin's lack of response. After all, Mizu isn't really the talkative type either. Still, he isn't sure what to make of Rixian. Especially after everything that's happened. Then again. It seems everyone has demons in their past. Some are just bigger than others. Though when the paladin remarks on Soma's method of showing affection... well, Mizu doesn't give any signs of hearing him, but there is a distant sound of a hawk call in the distance...
Soma circles above them, alternating between flying ahead and circling over them as they make their way back to the inn. Mizu remains silent through the whole journey, his weariness showing plainly on his usually unreadable face. That fight... took way more out of him than it should have. Regardless, he does his best to pay attention as the drow talks to Mina. Taking note of his reluctance to share information with 'the high elf'. Mizu suspects he knows who that is, but isn't entirely sure why the drow would be wary of him. He'll have to ask the others about their conversation with... what was the guy's name? Cassian? Well, Mizu will have to ask if they learned anything useful from the guy.
When they enter the inn, Mizu takes a seat at the bar just like last time--perching on the stool and sitting crosslegged as he examines the room. He's not really feeling hungry.... not after what they just witnessed. He could use a drink... probably just water though, which he can make for himself thanks to his heritage. But... he doesn't really feel like trying to use any spells at the moment. Vaguely, he's aware of the Drow asking about someone named... Zale. It's not a name he recognizes, so he tilts his head in consideration and leans on the counter with both arms. Blinking, he registers that the drow seems to be ready to head out again. Should they go help look?
His head tilts further, and before he finishes trying to decide what to do, he falls asleep at the bar with his head resting on his arms. Today has been a lot, and... well in spite of what he would like everyone to believe, he is still just a kid after all. Normally, he wouldn't have a problem pushing past this exhaustion, but this time weariness got the better of him.
Meanwhile, as everyone else begins discussing drinks, Soma flies in and lands on the counter next to him. She pulls a strand of his hair as if preening one of her own feathers, and makes a small noise in her throat before jumping over to Leeta. The hawk surveys the room, eyeing the drow for a moment as if trying to decide on whether or not he's going to be her new friend. After all, their party is supposed to have Mizu, Leeta, a fiery one, and a dark elfy one... but, she ultimately decides that she should pay attention to the people who actually have been with Mizu and Leeta this whole time. So she hops over onto the counter in front of Kullogal and Mina, clicking her beak for a moment as if to ask if she can join them. Then she flies over to Rowaran, perching on his shoulder briefly and making the same noise in her throat as she made earlier when she attempted to preen Mizu's hair. Perhaps she's trying to give a proper thank you to the aasimar for helping her master, since her master is too quiet and sleepy to do it himself. She fluffs up her feathers, then cocks her head to one side as she eyes the party... they seem to be missing one. Where did Not-Master go to? Quietly, from Rowaran's shoulder, she surveys the room again until she catches sight of Rixian's fiery hair trying to hide in a corner. Letting out a small cry, she jumps from Rowaran's shoulder and swoops down to land on the table in front of Rixian. There she turns her head to fix one blue eye on him, then she taps her talons on the table looking from him to the rest of the party. She does this several times before ultimately flying back over to the counter and perching on Mizu's head. There she'll watch as the rest of the group decides on what they are going to do... while seemingly debating on whether or not she should wake up her master by jabbing him in the head with her talons...
Leeta smiles widely at Rowarin's mention of drinks and does the same towards Mina and Kulogall. As a reply to the Triton, she nudges him (probably on his thigh instead of his ribs because she's small and he is super tall!) and says:
- That is in the past now. Let's look to the future. And don't worry, I'm tougher than I look! I gotta say, your magic is pretty strong, you should be proud. But- she looks serious all of a sudden - the fact that I'm saying this doesn't mean I don't want that HUGE orange juice okay? - the mini monk then grins again.
As they enter the inn, Leeta sees Rixian's raised hand and, not knowing any better, she jumps and playfully highfives him. Then she smiles at the fire genasi, but doesn't add anymore and just goes with the rest towards the bar counter. After all, she's so tired. Even one as energetic as her needs to sit from time to time. And she does precisely that, sitting next to Mizu in the tallest stool she can find - because she likes when her legs dangle over the floor - while Kulogall orders her orange juice.
As she's drinking, she overhears the drow asking about someone named Zale, that seems to be missing. And the monk would worry about this, she really would, but perhaps this is a matter for the next day. They are all tired! She's turns her head to ask Mizu about this, and her eyebrows shoot in surprise to see him placidly asleep. She can't help but smile at this and thinks about waking him up so he can rest properly in his bed. But he looks so tired ... perhaps she'll do this later if he doesn't wake by himself when the rest retire to sleep.
Answering Soma's gestures with another caress in her little and beautiful head, the mini monk watches as the hawk checks on everyone. It's amazing how Soma's behaviour seems to complement Mizu's introverted personality. Leeta smiles fondly at this, thinking that she wouldn't change any of this in the slightest. They are as they are, and the halfling likes them both that way.
Seeing Soma seemingly trying to convince Rixian to join the others, she tries to give the familiar a hand by waving at Rixian from the bar counter.
- Don't you stand there all alone! Join us! We are a team after all. During tough fights, and during chill moments as this one! - she says, smiling.
The halfling won't mind if the fire genasi decides to stay apart. She'll just ... keep on trying the next morning.
Rowarin follows the group in the inn, in full earnest and eager to get a nice ale down to quench his thirst. Walking in, he briefly catches the sound of Rixian behind. Turning towards him, he seems to be heading to the seat there, and before Rowarin can ponder more on this the surging crowd to the barkeep snaps his focus back. I need that ale, that battle was a little intense, Rowarin thinks to himself.
Rowarin takes a seat nearby, and intakes a large gulp of the ale that is poured. He muses over this, reminiscing over memories from time long gone. In just a swift moment, Soma flies over and lands on his shoulder, startling him for a second. She coos at him with a gutteral sound, ruffling her feathers and standing with.. what, pride? As if the bird appreciates the outcome from today. "You are a cute one eh, but probably just as fierce and commanding as your friend huh?" Rowarin chuckles a little and with that, the bird flies away. He glances over to raise his glass to Mizu, only to find him dozing in his chair. He smirks, and turns back to the others
Leeta seems to be the liveliest of the bunch, perky and full of energy. If her personality doesn't lift the spirits of anyone in the room, what will! Rowarin finds himself lingering too long at Leeta, blinks into attention and scans the room. He catches the backend of the conversation happening... Zale? If that is someone Rowarin has met, he does not recall. He feels a bit of guilt realising he's in a jovial mood after their minor victory... Against what though? He plays the motions out in his mind, recalling precise information of the events that passed. There was that forest path. I can still feel the magics lingering around me.. but most surprising, I felt, Necrotic magics. Something down that path was forcing us to retreat, didn't want us looking there.
Rowarin keeps this in mind, but not wanting to jump into business so soon he shall wait for his moment. He listens on the conversation between the drow and the barkeep, and glimpses at what seems like a bad idea, to head back out. Rowarin chooses to bide his time over and see if he makes a move. In the meantime, Rowarin looks back at Rixian and sees him sitting away from the group, with Leeta trying to persuade him over. Rowarin will choose to shimmy his chair over, whilst trying not to spill his ale, and sits closer to Rixian. If he has a drink, Rowarin will raise his glass to clink with Rixians, and says "You my comrade, you wield that polearm in ways I've never encountered before. I'm most impressed! I must ask though, standing side by side with you in heated combat, I couldn't help but perceive that something was playing on your mind. As it does now. Is there anything I can do to ease any of those... Burdens from you?"
Sitting in a corner after failing to get Rowarin's attention, he doesn't even notice Leeta's high five as he then withdraws for the night. Awaiting to overhear some more potential info about the victims though, Rixian continues to fiddle with his long-dead smartphone by himself. He does so for next 10 minutes until he spot something with his keen eye: The sight of the white hawk Soma, preening her master's hair before she fluffs up, clicks her beak and then nuzzles each and every one of the others sitting at the bar. His hands flare up in jealousy before they return to normal, though not before he wears a pained look on his face. It's been so long since he interacted with beautiful birds of prey like this one, let alone one alone all by himself. It's as if his inner child has just been reactivated to soothe his emotional soul again. No rather, as he clutches his pendant again and smiles, it glows white as it suddenly creates a brown feather sticking out of it. Yeah, it's that moment just he flashbacks in his own head; it reminds him of that one time, before the white dragon Cryovain's attack... when he finally coerces out of his shell and better leads the Shifters because of someone... special.
"Ow- Omae! Daisy?! What's with this brown falcon pecking at my hair?! And why are you in my room?! Can you like... Seriously, please get him to stop and leave my private sector. Why is he even barging into my room in the first place? Why are you also here?!"
"That's because he's my falcon, stupid. I told him to go peck your head until it bruises if I ever catch you sitting away from the shifters during a social event. And your living room blinds were clearly not drawn I can tell you that. Maybe he might put some sense into your sensitive, dense skull for once. What are you even moping about anyways in private, huh? Come on spill it out!"
"Seriously? Look I wasn't even moping for a split second! Can't you already tell that I enjoy my solitude just as much as you enjoy him? Or what you're expecting me to-"
"Sigh... no, you jerk... the whole point I'm trying to convey is that I myself especially don't enjoy seeing you all alone. And neither does my falcon here. Sometimes I still wonder why I'm even making the effort to coerce you into coming out these days, let alone intrude your personal space... unless of course you have something personal to hide from us... right? I mean, I won't pry into this any further for now. Plus I think that since you're the leader of us, you're better off trying to improve your social skills rather than just act like a timid wallflower with no leadership qualities. Ain't that right, Raja?"
*Daisy whistles to the brown falcon to perch on Rixi's right shoulder as it lets out an ear piercing squawk, right as it lands and she sits down besides his left and leans into his shoulder, placing some dry meat into his hands.*
"Raja? Daisy? Why are you placing meat into my hands?"
"That's his name. Pretty fancy huh? Now... *Daisy cups his ash black hands and lifts them up* You heard that squawk right? Feed him. You can wash your hands later when we're done."
"Uh... What are you-"
"Shut up and feed him, stupid! Raja's telling you that he's hungry!" *She grabs his hand and makes him feed her hungry hawk* "Now look at him! He wants to preen your hair! Go on! Don't be shy! He won't cause serious head injuries!"
"But Daisy-"
"Do it! Let him groom you or I'll drag you out onstage unprepared!"
*Rixi lets Raja preen his long, unignited hair as he groans in defeat; Raja squawks cheerfully as he nuzzles Rixi's cheek*
"You know, I'm already convinced he's taken a liking to you, much like someone else... But I won't tell you who, ok?" *The Wood Elf winks teasily as she locks her green eyes onto Rixi's molten ones and smirks* "But, Raja aside, I understand your needs to recharge alone. I'll always respect that, much as you respect me as one of your own. *She then gently whistles to Raja to perch on her shoulder again as she gently strokes his face* Let me know when you're ready to take the stage. Just you and me."
"Uh... Is never an option?" *Rixi teasily smirks back, only to be elbowed* "OW! What the-?!"
"Idiot! So much for being nice...! You're dumped!" *She gets up and leaves Rixi stunned... but then sticks out her tongue with a smile before she and Raja leave*
"Sigh... honestly... what's with her attitude towards me? And Raja... I wish he could stay, no, I wished the both of them could stay... forever... She's the one that's in love with me... isn't she? I already know..."
As he returns to the present moment, he lets out a sigh that could've been heard if it wasn't for the endless stream of chatter coming from the bar counter. Yeah, if Daisy was here, she'd fall in love with that hawk. Maybe she'd even challenge Soma's master to see who's the better falcon whisperer perhaps. Maybe... if Raja was even alive by now, he's befriend Soma too. Maybe... if he his adoptive kin hadn't bite the dust, he would've opened up to Mizu a lot more than now too. He smiles to himself... only to jolt violently when he hears a thud from the table adjacent to him plus...
Where did Not-Master go to? Quietly, from Rowaran's shoulder, she surveys the room again until she catches sight of Rixian's fiery hair trying to hide in a corner. Letting out a small cry, she jumps from Rowaran's shoulder and swoops down to land on the table in front of Rixian. There she turns her head to fix one blue eye on him, then she taps her talons on the table looking from him to the rest of the party. She does this several times before ultimately flying back over to the counter and perching on Mizu's head.
Seeing Soma seemingly trying to convince Rixian to join the others, she tries to give the familiar a hand by waving at Rixian from the bar counter.
- Don't you stand there all alone! Join us! We are a team after all. During tough fights, and during chill moments as this one! - she says, smiling.
Oh. So that's who was rapping her claws on the table. It's none other than Soma herself. And then as she flies back, he sees the tiny monk Leeta waving towards him... she's such a social butterfly; Her attitude clearly reminds him of Daisy and Yuri too, in a way, trying to get him to come join them in social events, except without all of the Tsundere acts such as hair pulling and forced dragging out of his room. Even so though, he just dismissively waves his hand back without changing his emotionless expression. "I'll pass." Rixi calls out, though he's unsure if any of them even heard him clearly.
Those people will never understand why he decides to be alone for now; He's still unstable inside. Not only he needs to recharge, but he keeps a distance, so that he doesn't end up as a potential danger to anyone else; Either sit in a corner to douse the hostile flames or wander to the bar and risk being a predator that might take innocent lives in the process.
His decision to remain isolated from everyone else but remain passive, is proof that he does care. Proof that he doesn't want them to be hurt by his own, flaming instability. At least, until he becomes surprised by...
Rowarin keeps this in mind, but not wanting to jump into business so soon he shall wait for his moment. He listens on the conversation between the drow and the barkeep, and glimpses at what seems like a bad idea, to head back out. Rowarin chooses to bide his time over and see if he makes a move. In the meantime, Rowarin looks back at Rixian and sees him sitting away from the group, with Leeta trying to persuade him over. Rowarin will choose to shimmy his chair over, whilst trying not to spill his ale, and sits closer to Rixian. If he has a drink, Rowarin will raise his glass to clink with Rixians, and says "You my comrade, you wield that polearm in ways I've never encountered before. I'm most impressed! I must ask though, standing side by side with you in heated combat, I couldn't help but perceive that something was playing on your mind. As it does now. Is there anything I can do to ease any of those... Burdens from you?"
Rixi's pupiless orange eyes widen in shock. That's the Aasimar that he tried to call out and never got a chance to talk to! That's him. So as soon as Rowarin immediately settles down next to him instead, he immediately is at a loss of words as he raps his hands nervously and glances to another direction before making eye contact with him. "Um... uh... Arigato... Uh I-I mean... t-t-thank you. Um... y-y-your magic... you were pretty skilled on the battlefield too... eheheh..." Rixi immediately stutters. Already surprised by the Aasmar's decision to chat with him, he struggles to comprehend his next sentence until he is asked what drink he'll have. "Um... I don't drink. Maybe uh... just water would do, if you um, if you have to." Maybe, just maybe, this might be his chance to make an actual comrade along the way... maybe, he could teach him some coordinated attack, let alone some team combos of his own too, starting with him. His optimism has sort of risen as of this. As he swivels his gaze to somewhere else, he hopes to start an actual conversation with him. Maybe find a common interest on what they could discuss. And then he flashes back to that Zale person as he breathes...
"So... um... Those two have been... mentioning about this... Zale person." He starts off. Whilst his speech is now meticulously slow, his stutters have noticeably faded as his voice smoothens without fear whilst he drifts away from his worries for now. "Is there anything you perhaps might know about him, or whether he might link to our previous investigation?"
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)
Mina joins most of the party up at the counter and is amused to see Mizu fall asleep. Poor kid, been through a lot today. and Mina knew she didn't know the half of it since she, Kulogall and Rowarin were here trying to chat the others up, the other three were running down.. Twig was it? Mina sure hoped the drow was right and that the missing weren't in fact deceased.
After a couple of swigs of her ale and being amused by Soma, she pets the bird's beak if the hawk lets her, she watches the drow as he hesitates at the door. Turning to Kulogall, "I'm completely fine, unlike the ones that were attacked by the plant dogs, I'm going to go check on this drow, feel free to join if you want."
Walking over to the dark elf, "Sorry for the harsh words earlier, I can now understand your reluctance to talk to us. And yes, at least from what I have encountered, our feelings of the high elf as you call him, are mutual. Not sure if you have other reasons, but mine are just from spending an hour in his company." she looks back to her party and sees they are all enjoying each other and that makes her happy, she hopes this group who appear to work well together in combat, can come together out of it as well. Back to the drow she asks, "I am sorry for overhearing, but you asked Bill about a name, Zale? Did you want company if you're heading back out? Or we all can help you in the morning."
Bill and Lilliana busy themselves with providing food and drink for the party. Bill even provides the first round of whatever kind of drink they wish for on the house. The few other guests in the building seem a little uncomfortable with the large white bird flying around inside, but they don't complain about it. You all are supposed to be helping the village after all.
After his pause, the dark elf glances back at the door, then at Cassian before Mina approaches him. He shrugs at her apology, then nods at her words concerning Cassian. He shrugs again at her second apology. "Zale is another bounty hunter who came here recently. She's that dragonborn who was messing with your child companion earlier." He gestures to the dozing Mizu. Turning he walks to the side of the room opposite of Cassian to find a table. Though when he turns he sees Rixian has claimed his usual dark corner. This causes his scowl to deepen, though he quickly adjusts his course to the slightly less dark corner of the room, close to the Inn's door. Lowering his voice, he continues "She tends to stay out late a lot anyways...just usually not this late." He shakes his head, "She's going to have to fend for herself. She'll probably be fine, and I don't think two elves out alone is a good idea." He sounds extremely un-pleased when he states the last sentence. "It will have to wait until morning."Though as he says this, he glances towards the door. Clearly he feels like something's off, though based on his demeanor on the way to the inn, you get the feeling he's always like that.
(Ya'll can either continue to RP if you'd like. I don't want to cut off any interactions between PCs or between NPCs if ya'll have more to say. Just let me know when you are ready to move forward. Once you all go to bed, you can take a long rest.)
Soma gladly accepts any attention she can get from Mizu's comrades, making the equivalent of a purring sound whenever she receives friendly words or even better--petting. Clearly, she likes being the center of attention, and would like for everyone to be within her eyesight, especially since her master is currently asleep. Ultimately deciding not to wake Mizu up, she rotates around the room, visiting every table to spend time with each of her master's comrades before they all head off to bed.
Mizu on the other hand remains fast asleep unless someone decides to wake him up.
After his pause, the dark elf glances back at the door, then at Cassian before Mina approaches him. He shrugs at her apology, then nods at her words concerning Cassian. He shrugs again at her second apology. "Zale is another bounty hunter who came here recently. She's that dragonborn who was messing with your child companion earlier." He gestures to the dozing Mizu. "She tends to stay out late a lot anyways...just usually not this late." He shakes his head "She's going to have to fend for herself. She'll probably be fine, and I don't think two elves out alone is a good idea."He sounds extremely un-pleased when he states the last sentence. "It will have to wait until morning."
Aha! Now this is something to take note of before a good night's rest; Quickly pulling out a tiny notebook that lays deep within the pockets of his fiery vest, he begins scribbling notes incase anyone else forgets about the details. "You hear that? Our next target appears to be a dragonborn. It seems like she has some bad blood... with..." He then stares at Mizu with hesitancy. Soma is probably the number one reason for Rixian's immense self-control towards him. He'd hate to see her die in combat, even though that vengeful demon inside him wants to see so; It feels messed up. But... to hear that this Zale has been a source of his troubles is... concerning indeed too. Every so often he whips his gaze to Rowarin, wondering if he can even pay attention at this point. "She stays out late, but they say she has to fend for herself..."He quietly muses to himself and Rowarin. "...does that mean she's still perhaps.. immature, in a way? Maybe her behaviour might have to relate to something or someone...?"
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)
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With the visage of this "Twig" girl disappearing into mist, and with the sudden appearance of this drow from the tavern.. How convenient he is to arrive as we've done the work Rowarin thinks to himself. Rowarin comes to terms that the fight is over, and that it is safe to return to a normal form. Turning away from the others, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, bringing into focus clarity of thought - and thus ending the transformation.
Turning to his comrades, "I have to say, we seemed to work well in synchronization there. Was that the girl we were supposed to find or is the real one out there somewhere?"
He leans against the wall, checking over his wounds.
Leeta, who has finished cleaning herself, observes from her seated position everyone's reactions after the battle. Her amber eyes move from Mizu and Mina - who are explaining to Kulogall what has happened - to Rowarin - that has turned back from his ... celestial? .... pressence to his normal self - and then to Rixian - who seems in the process of recovering himself from his very own inner turmoil. Then they follow Mizu as he walks back to stand next to her again.
When Soma lands on her shoulder the still silent monk can't help but smile, and as the white-as-snow hawk rubs her little head against her cheek, the halfling presses the bird's head gently with her hand, returning the tender gesture. This seems to give the monk what she needs to stand up and talkto the water genasi. She does so pretty quietly.
- For the longest of times it's been Jezza, me and you. There, at my core. At the middle of my inner pond - they've talked several times about this, so the water genasi knows this is how Leeta refers to her spirit, her font of strengh, as the Skydancer taught her since she was an infant - I just ... wasn't ready to see you leaving that core so soon after we've reached this place.
Mizu, who's known Leeta since almost forever, knows that she was abandoned as a baby and that Skydancer Jezza found her, took her in and cared for her both as a father and as a monk mentor. A curious mixture of a drow stepfather and a halfling child. It is possible that everything that has happened since they started running after Twig has resurfaced that dark spot that lives within her mind, buried deeply most of the time. And it's nobody's fault. It's just what has happened. And while he knows this, Mizu knows too that his friend has been taught to fall down seven times and stand up eight. She'll defintely have fully shaken off all of this after a good rest.
Leeta then places a hand in Mizu's forearm - next to where he's cauterized the plant dog wound with fire. Her tanned skin does stand out against his paler one as she leaves her hand there for a couple of seconds. The halfling knows that fire doesn't hurt him more than any other kind of damage just because he belongs to a water race. But it is really curious that he has needed fire to cauterize the wound, given what his relationship to the party's fire genasi has been up to now.
After this, the mini monk will be more than ready to leave for a well deserved night's rest. She'll want to inform the kids on what has happened as soon as possible, but knowing that they are safe in their house it looks that it can wait until tomorrow. In fact, now that the confrontational Twig will not be there, perhaps the kids will allow Lilliana, from the StoneDog, to check on them every once in a while? That might be enough.
On their way to the Inn, when she passes next to Kulogall and Mina, Leeta will stand in front of the triton and say:
- You owe me a HUGE orange juice! - she then turns to Mina with a smirk, and asks - Am I right!? - The triton probably won't understand why, but despite this, he can feel that everything is fine with the mini monk and that she's only joking. And she really does like orange juice, right?
Then, walking past Rixian, the monk stops in front of him, places an open hand over a closed fist and bows, offering him a big smile. Leeta does like the fiery one, specially now that he's seems to be in better terms with the water genasi that is her best friend.
To Rowarin she says:
- I agree! We can do great things together. Also ... you were amazing, Rowarin! A-MA-ZING! - Regarding Twig she adds - Hmmm, I hope the real one is out there and that we can still find her safely.
To the drow, Leeta doesn't add much else. Mina and the rest have that pretty well covered.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
The drow gives Rixian an odd look as the genasi appears to be having a migraine. Then he gives the ganasi a flat look when he states that he doesn't look familiar. "If you're talking about that girl, no that was not the real one. Those phantoms are some kind of illusion."
When Mizu starts asking questions, he opens his mouth to respond, but turns his silver gaze to Mina as she also starts questioning him. Sheathing his rapier, he almost tosses the torch but thinks better of it. "We have no reason to assume any of the victims are dead." He growls. "I have my reasons for keeping quiet earlier. For one, if you haven't noticed, more than half this bloody town has their brains addled by some sort of witchcraft. I'm no mage, but I wasn't about to spill whatever information I had to someone who could potentially be a vessel for the one responsible for this mess." He waves a hand at the dust, and glances at Mizu, "Yes, I know of those things. They come after me practically every other night. At first I thought it was just because I'm and elf, but no. I've reason to believe those things target anyone who knows to much."
As Soma scouts the roads to the inn and to the children's hideout, she finds nothing noteworthy. The dim streets are completely devoid of any plant monsters.
After her harsh words to the newcomer, Mina starts scrounging through the ashes in the alleyway. She can confidently say, there are no roses left here.
Silently, whilst rising with shaken feet embedded on the pavement, Rixian did nothing in response to the drow's remark other than shoot back a suspicious glare. So is she alive or not? What the drow just blurted out sounded rather vague to him. It was an illusion all this while? Was Twig actually the one behind all of it or was someone pulling the strings? He'll have to dive into this in his own time, or if everyone insists on investigating any further. Preparing to head to the inn in silence, the fire genasi was then suddenly interrupted by two things, one painful, one... respectful? Or... acknowledging? He can't tell but...
"Ow!" He yells out as Soma pulls on his hair. That actually hurt him, both physically and mentally. Seriously what on earth did he do to her?! And... he left her master alone, even he actually had a million excuse not to do so. Geez! But then all of a sudden, the next thing is molten eyes meet is the tiny monk Leeta, bowing towards him as if she was bowing towards her master. Uh... well, that what he assumes, plus he's too young and too unfamiliar to be her master after all, unless if he perhaps resembles someone she knows. Even so, the young paladin, confused at her gesture, decided to bow back, hands by his side, but couldn't really smile back after what happened; After all, in Japan, whether you win or lose a fight, you always bow to your opponent as a gesture of respect.
On the way to the inn, Rixi stays at the back again and recaps what happened in the fight and how on earth he almost gave himself up to the demon of vengeance that laid dormant until now. If this was the first fight and he's already growing increasingly unstable, then the upcoming fights will be worse and more gruelling for him. Either he needs to pull himself together, or succumb to it; Either way his oath has to be cleared one way or another. His emotions, swirling in an ocean of uncertainty and doubt, began muddling themselves up, one after another. On the outside, his face morphs from a wretched grimace, to a half-sleeping sigh and then to a gasp of shock every 3 minutes, before repeating the cycle. Often, there would be times where he feels like he wants to cry, but he's all grown up. To him, real men don't cry unless if they lose someone they value... at least, to him it is.
Also, he doesn't know if it's because of the waters or his mental instability, but he knows that, somehow, his perseverance, his aspirations to lead again, are slowly beginning to fade...
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)
Mizu's blank expression wavers slightly at Leeta's words. Sure, he knows she'll bounce back after a good rest, and that she doesn't blame him for what happened but... well, he blames himself. He tilts his head downward as she touches his cauterized arm, "I'm sorry. I should have been stronger." He can't go falling prey to such spells if he wants to avenge his family and continue to fight alongside Leeta. This... clearly bothers him a lot. It kindled unwanted thoughts and memories. Things that he's tried very hard not to think about during missions and everyday life. Things he only brings to memory when he needs to remind himself what he's fighting for.
His gaze jerks towards Rixian when the fire genasi shouts due to Soma's playful (but perhaps a little too rough) gesture. He raises an eyebrow at the hawk as she circles over Kullogal before heading off, then shakes his head at her once she's out of sight. It takes him a moment to register Leeta's interaction with Rixian, and he hesitantly follows suit. He walks over to the paladin, cold eyes fixed on him for a moment before offering a bow of his own. His is much simpler, one arm crossed over his chest as he bends at the waist, though before he rises he says, "We were fortunate to have your flames on our side." He hesitates, then stands and looks Rixian in the eye. For a moment, it seems that he might say something else, but instead he turns his gaze back in the direction that Soma had flown, "Soma has taken a liking to you." When she'd 'pulled' Rixian's hair, she was really just trying to ruffle it like a mother might do to a child. But, being a hawk, the motion was awful similar to how she'd swoop down and grab her prey.
Mizu stands there for a moment, spacing off as he consider's the drow's words. They target those with too much knowledge? Hmm, well he can't argue with the dark elf's logic. Either way, they'd best make their way back to the inn. Exhaustion slowly hits him, and he lets out a long breath... which seems to release all the energy he'd gained from adrenaline during the battle. He tilts his head up slightly, shutting his eyes and letting his hair fall back as he momentarily blocks out the carnage around him. Then he shakes his head and says, "The path to the inn is clear, perhaps it would be better to talk there." His eyes, now showing weariness flick towards the drow questioningly, indicating that he has further questions, and knows that his comrades will also have further questions as well. Mainly, how did he end up here just in time to witness the end of the fight?
If anyone asks about the kids, he'll say that they seem to be safe currently. He'll stand by his personal belief that it would be better to leave them be for the night, unless someone really wants to break the news to them now.
He walks with Leeta, avoiding eye contact with everyone else for now. There are a lot of things running through his head at the moment. Some related to the past. Others related to the fight and... well, Rowaran is an aasimar... not to mention Rixian's current behavior. Perhaps he should have said more to his other companions, express his gratitude and respect towards them, but... he feels he's exhausted his words for today. Hopefully they can see past his blank expression and recognize those feelings.
Still, other thoughts focus on the disappearances, and Twig. They have to figure out what's going on here, but can they do it without tearing themselves (and each other) apart?
The last thing he wants is to see his past repeat itself.
- You are strong, Mizu. And you'll get stronger. We'll all do better from now on, you'll see! - Leeta answers, this time offering the water genasi a smile.
Smile which widens considerably when Mizu follows her bow to Rixian. She looks with proud eyes from one genasi to the other, and her expression is way more relaxed when they begin walking towards the inn. There was still much to be done in Withermore, many mysteries to uncover and - surely - hard fights ahead, but the mini monk suddenly feels more hopeful and stronger, and Rowarin's words resonate once again in her mind. They make a damn fine team!
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Leeta's words of kindness take Rowarin a little by surprise... "Oh, wow thanks. You were pretty bad ass yourself. I know I wouldn't want to get in the way of those fists of yours!"
The drow from earlier confirms that Twig was but an illusion, and likely the real one is out there somewhere. OK, definitely not going back there tonight. We can resume our investigation tomorrow Rowarin thinks to himself.
Rowarin follows the group back towards the Stone Dog, listening to each compliment the other in their prowess of battle. Amazing to see how everyone has gelled so well together already - though Rowarin suspects that this was not the biggest threat they will face. True testament shall be found in the direst of battles - something his old Captain would recite during their gruelling battle drills.
"You all have unique battle capabilities I must say, strong and fierce yet almost majestic. I'm glad that we are all OK, I think knowing we worked well makes the uneasiness of what is to come that much easier to bear."
Leeta seems to jokingly jest about having the largest orange juice when we get back to the inn. That puts a smile on Rowarins' face "Here here to that - I can already taste the ale that has my name on it!"
As they trudge towards the inn, Rowarin starts to ponder if he can make sense of anything he saw this evening. Was there any clue or identifiable piece of information that he can recall from what was witnessed in the forest, the sensations felt, the magics used here... something that can give them the edge towards finding the source of these bizarre occurrences..
Investigation: 22
Mina smiles back at Leeta, "Oh for sure he owes you a large orange juice." and she playfully elbows the triton as they head on to the Inn. When she sees Leeta and Mizu bow to the paladin, she doesn't get what is going on, wonders if it had anything to do with what they did when they chased after the girl or what, but decides not to inquire.
The drows words sink in... no reason to assume any of the victims are dead.
As they walk back, she'll drop in step with the drow (assuming he is with them), "Could we share information now? They are after you every other night? Stay with us and you should be more protected. This whole thing... it's way more than I anticipated. Have you found a blood red rose at victim's locations? I found it odd we didn't there."
The drow hesitates as the party starts heading back to the Stonedog. After a few moments, he starts to follow. When Mina falls in step with him, he doesn't seem any more pleasant than he did earlier. "Since I know you're not charmed or whatever, yes. We can share information. Just not here, or anywhere with prying ears...and especially not near that blasted high elf." As he walks, he continuously scans the rooftops and side alleys. Clearly he doesn't trust Soma's eyes alone. "Yes, so long as it's not where the sun can touch it, there is always a rose wherever someone disappeared. As for back there, tch well if that even was the same location where the girl was taken I doubt the plant would have survived with all those flames being thrown around. Anyways, if you want to talk it can wait until morning, we'll just have to do so in one of your rooms at the inn. Some of your companions clearly need a break."
Without any interference, you all make it back to the Stonedog. Entering, you note that most of the guests have gone home. However, Bill is still behind the counter cleaning up a few things, and Cassian is back at his table. Though it appears that Elenor has gone to bed. Cassian nods to the party, and the dark elf shoots him a glare before stalking over to Bill. "Has Zale come back yet?"
Bill looks up, "If she did, I didn't see her."
The drow grits his teeth and looks towards the door, then back at the party. Clearly he's thinking about leaving.
For a few minutes, Kulogall seems out of it, looking up with a wan smile when the others give him reassurances, he remains bewildered by it all. Walking back to the inn, still not himself, he smiles back at Leeta, saying “I’ll have them get an extra LARGE orange juice for you….” He pauses for a minute, thinking, remembering… “I… I hurt you back there, didn’’t I? Something, I can’t quite remember, it’s all a blur… if I did, I’m sorry, Leeta. It’s all so fuzzy…”. He walks onward in silence, trying to process what has happened. When Soma flies by he manages a smile, but otherwise, he seems lost in his thoughts.
As he walks into the inn, he hears the Drow talking, meeting for further discussion and sharing of information sounds good, Kulogall nods along with that. When he mentions Zale and sees the reaction, there is a pull and a consideration of what to do, but Kulogall appears tired and in no shape to go on another errand just yet. He turns to Mina and Leeta and says “Have a drink with me? I don’t know that I can face another one of those… things… just yet.” He smiles and the tall triton looks at the ground, the wind out of his sails, he appears embarrassed that he was so weak that he could not see through the girl’s illusions…
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Behind the pack, Rixi could obviously notice the commotion, especially Leeta and Mizu's. His hatred for the latter's kind still runs strong, but, the former herself isn't one. So, he needs to quell himself for the time being and just... work in the shadows. If you can't beat them, join them, it is.
Though, as he looks on towards the duo whilst he stows his polearm behind his back, his jealousy suddenly overwhelms every other emotion that has been floating aimlessly like capsized objects in an ocean. Seeing this momentary bond between him already reminds him of his kind and gentle group, the one he had lead throughout several major campaigns, the one he had turned into a massive powerhouse that's well known throughout the Sword Coast. He misses each and every one of them already, from the sarcastic but witty Shijiro to the non-nonsense but selfless Tenebris and then over to the ruthless-on-the-outside, but vulnerable-on-the-inside... Daisy... there's just something, as he arches his head down in regret as he walks, something special in all of them. Something they hold, which could fill in his own empty void whenever he's down. Things that this current group cannot at the moment. And... huh? Is someone calling him? No wait-
Rixi jolts upon hearing Mizu's soft-spoken voice and jerks his head back up. And that's when he notices him bowing as well. Though he does squint after recalling his awful childhood, for some reason though this young Water Genasi appears to be more mild-mannered and gentle than what Rixi thought; Most Water Genasi, Sea Elves, Tritons or any other aquatic races he encounter would deliberately disown him on sight and provoke him into a deadly fight. This one is different. What's up with his tame attitude? Has he gone through a similar past just like himself? Has an aquatic race perhaps warned the young water genasi of the paladin in the past and has told him to act like this if the two crossed paths? Is that why he hasn't lashed out yet? He's very uncertain even as he bows back. Then again, if Leeta appears to be his companion, he better make sure he doesn't disrespect her through him. So, whilst confused, he bows respectfully in silence again. Hopefully he doesn't give the wrong impressions like last time...
'We were fortunate to have flames on our side'. That's definitely something that Ethan would say, being the first friend who understands him deeply. And in that same, non-violent tone that Mizu himself used too. Rixi can make out some uneasiness in Mizu just by observing his tense body. Maybe he has gone through a similar past after all. He sighs. Other than that there isn't anything else he could make out over his current mood, so again he says nothing. But, looking at Mizu's back... those hooked sabers. He widens his eyes in awe as recognises them as the Shuang Gou, the swords that can hook onto each other to attack. Subarashī. Watashi wa shitto shite imasu (すばらしい。私は嫉妬しています, Amazing. I'm actually jealous) He thinks. He had always dreamt of wielding this legendary pair instead of the unwieldy, double-edged polearm he uses today. Well, at least this water warrior is reassuring. Sort of. Better than having to trigger his demon again for sure...
Also... what? That's how Soma says she's taken a liking to him? By pulling his hair painfully? He squints in response; This really reminds him of that time where the Wildland Shifters passed by a flock of hawks on the way to Daggerford, only for all of them to hear Yurime scream like the berserk kumiho she once was when they started pulling her long, white, silky hair and caused her to eat one of them for lunch. It wasn't a good memory, let alone one he should be reminded of. "Could've just landed on my shoulder... like the first time..." He mutters almost inaudibly, especially once his opposite moves further in front of him such that he will most unlikely catch up to him by the time he steps foot into the inn.
Though, apart from Leeta, there was actually another person that did stand out for him during the fight. And that was Rowarin. During the fight his transformation into an Aasimar did catch Rixi by surprise, and he was blinded as a result. But other than that plus the fact they briefly teamed up to rip down the plant dogs, that was it. Now that the battle is over, this would be a pristine opportunity to redeem himself for his past blunders. It's been a while since he last saw an Aasimar in fact. He remembers all the failed attempts he tried to recruit at least one of this majestic race into his team, let alone establish a mutual friendship with one of his kind. So maybe, just maybe, as the Fire Genasi Paladin becomes the last to step into the inn, he could actually get to know not only him, but Leeta as well, to take his weight off his shoulders. He then raises his left hand to try and gesture to Rowarin. "Hey. You wanna-" He begins, only to witness him heading over to the bar counter with everyone else and hangs in his own spot. After 1 minute, he drops his hand and grimaces, knowing that he's long occupied with another matter.
Whatever. If he doesn't want to chat with him, he doesn't. Go ahead and make him relive his failed past with them. Not that it matters anymore... Silently in defeat, the paladin slowly turns his back on the rest and strides towards one of the couches that are currently concealed by the dark shadows. Whilst he's appreciative for a meaningful chatter, greatly appreciates solitude even more than that. At 19 years old, he's old enough to have a drink, but he's never been an avid fan of it. So instead he just sit down and... overhears... something...
Zale? Another one? Right... so he's sort of correct. There must be more than one person connected to this mysterious matter it seems as he raises his eyebrow. MAybe there is something he could do to pass the time after all before he sleeps in a room all by himself. Or maybe with Leeta and Rowarin too, who knows.
Whilst the rest are busy relaxing near the counter, Rixian for the moment isolates himself in a dark, secluded corner, just like the shy teen he has always been until it's time to get a dorm of his own. If anyone tries to talk to him, he won't respond for the moment, given how shaken he is. However, that doesn't mean he stops gathering info where he can; This is an opportunity for him to listen in on anything those guys have to offer as he fiddles with his pendant and stares at his dead, cracked phone in silence; Whatever facts and details his teammates cannot pick up, Rixi will be sure to regather the scraps left behind... in the shadows.
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)
The most obvious asset you have against this threat is fire, you are also more than certain that these creatures do not like light of any sort. Striking during the day would probably give you advantage, so long as you have an idea of where to strike. Now that you've gotten a closer look at the magics used here, it's clear that that conjuration and Enchantment magics are at play even without casting detect magic. Something had to be summoning and controlling the plant dogs after all. However, you have a suspicion that Necromancy may be involved as well.
Thinking back to your time near the forest, you think it's pretty obvious that something didn't want you there. It's safe to say that's where the 'boss lair' is.
In response to Leeta's encouragement, Mizu... well he just nods. Leeta knows him well enough to realize that a smile from him is few and far between, and that he isn't the type to feign expressions in attempt to make someone else feel better. Yet his lack of response or expression doesn't mean that he has no appreciation for her words, or that he is skeptical. If anything, he knows them to be true. After all, they were both trained to get back up and keep fighting, even when others might give in. He'll get stronger. He doesn't have a choice.
After his brief exchange with Rixian, Mizu hesitates, though is seemingly unfazed by the paladin's lack of response. After all, Mizu isn't really the talkative type either. Still, he isn't sure what to make of Rixian. Especially after everything that's happened. Then again. It seems everyone has demons in their past. Some are just bigger than others. Though when the paladin remarks on Soma's method of showing affection... well, Mizu doesn't give any signs of hearing him, but there is a distant sound of a hawk call in the distance...
Soma circles above them, alternating between flying ahead and circling over them as they make their way back to the inn. Mizu remains silent through the whole journey, his weariness showing plainly on his usually unreadable face. That fight... took way more out of him than it should have. Regardless, he does his best to pay attention as the drow talks to Mina. Taking note of his reluctance to share information with 'the high elf'. Mizu suspects he knows who that is, but isn't entirely sure why the drow would be wary of him. He'll have to ask the others about their conversation with... what was the guy's name? Cassian? Well, Mizu will have to ask if they learned anything useful from the guy.
When they enter the inn, Mizu takes a seat at the bar just like last time--perching on the stool and sitting crosslegged as he examines the room. He's not really feeling hungry.... not after what they just witnessed. He could use a drink... probably just water though, which he can make for himself thanks to his heritage. But... he doesn't really feel like trying to use any spells at the moment. Vaguely, he's aware of the Drow asking about someone named... Zale. It's not a name he recognizes, so he tilts his head in consideration and leans on the counter with both arms. Blinking, he registers that the drow seems to be ready to head out again. Should they go help look?
His head tilts further, and before he finishes trying to decide what to do, he falls asleep at the bar with his head resting on his arms. Today has been a lot, and... well in spite of what he would like everyone to believe, he is still just a kid after all. Normally, he wouldn't have a problem pushing past this exhaustion, but this time weariness got the better of him.
Meanwhile, as everyone else begins discussing drinks, Soma flies in and lands on the counter next to him. She pulls a strand of his hair as if preening one of her own feathers, and makes a small noise in her throat before jumping over to Leeta. The hawk surveys the room, eyeing the drow for a moment as if trying to decide on whether or not he's going to be her new friend. After all, their party is supposed to have Mizu, Leeta, a fiery one, and a dark elfy one... but, she ultimately decides that she should pay attention to the people who actually have been with Mizu and Leeta this whole time. So she hops over onto the counter in front of Kullogal and Mina, clicking her beak for a moment as if to ask if she can join them. Then she flies over to Rowaran, perching on his shoulder briefly and making the same noise in her throat as she made earlier when she attempted to preen Mizu's hair. Perhaps she's trying to give a proper thank you to the aasimar for helping her master, since her master is too quiet and sleepy to do it himself. She fluffs up her feathers, then cocks her head to one side as she eyes the party... they seem to be missing one. Where did Not-Master go to? Quietly, from Rowaran's shoulder, she surveys the room again until she catches sight of Rixian's fiery hair trying to hide in a corner. Letting out a small cry, she jumps from Rowaran's shoulder and swoops down to land on the table in front of Rixian. There she turns her head to fix one blue eye on him, then she taps her talons on the table looking from him to the rest of the party. She does this several times before ultimately flying back over to the counter and perching on Mizu's head. There she'll watch as the rest of the group decides on what they are going to do... while seemingly debating on whether or not she should wake up her master by jabbing him in the head with her talons...
Leeta smiles widely at Rowarin's mention of drinks and does the same towards Mina and Kulogall. As a reply to the Triton, she nudges him (probably on his thigh instead of his ribs because she's small and he is super tall!) and says:
- That is in the past now. Let's look to the future. And don't worry, I'm tougher than I look! I gotta say, your magic is pretty strong, you should be proud. But - she looks serious all of a sudden - the fact that I'm saying this doesn't mean I don't want that HUGE orange juice okay? - the mini monk then grins again.
As they enter the inn, Leeta sees Rixian's raised hand and, not knowing any better, she jumps and playfully highfives him. Then she smiles at the fire genasi, but doesn't add anymore and just goes with the rest towards the bar counter. After all, she's so tired. Even one as energetic as her needs to sit from time to time. And she does precisely that, sitting next to Mizu in the tallest stool she can find - because she likes when her legs dangle over the floor - while Kulogall orders her orange juice.
As she's drinking, she overhears the drow asking about someone named Zale, that seems to be missing. And the monk would worry about this, she really would, but perhaps this is a matter for the next day. They are all tired! She's turns her head to ask Mizu about this, and her eyebrows shoot in surprise to see him placidly asleep. She can't help but smile at this and thinks about waking him up so he can rest properly in his bed. But he looks so tired ... perhaps she'll do this later if he doesn't wake by himself when the rest retire to sleep.
Answering Soma's gestures with another caress in her little and beautiful head, the mini monk watches as the hawk checks on everyone. It's amazing how Soma's behaviour seems to complement Mizu's introverted personality. Leeta smiles fondly at this, thinking that she wouldn't change any of this in the slightest. They are as they are, and the halfling likes them both that way.
Seeing Soma seemingly trying to convince Rixian to join the others, she tries to give the familiar a hand by waving at Rixian from the bar counter.
- Don't you stand there all alone! Join us! We are a team after all. During tough fights, and during chill moments as this one! - she says, smiling.
The halfling won't mind if the fire genasi decides to stay apart. She'll just ... keep on trying the next morning.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Rowarin follows the group in the inn, in full earnest and eager to get a nice ale down to quench his thirst. Walking in, he briefly catches the sound of Rixian behind. Turning towards him, he seems to be heading to the seat there, and before Rowarin can ponder more on this the surging crowd to the barkeep snaps his focus back. I need that ale, that battle was a little intense, Rowarin thinks to himself.
Rowarin takes a seat nearby, and intakes a large gulp of the ale that is poured. He muses over this, reminiscing over memories from time long gone. In just a swift moment, Soma flies over and lands on his shoulder, startling him for a second. She coos at him with a gutteral sound, ruffling her feathers and standing with.. what, pride? As if the bird appreciates the outcome from today. "You are a cute one eh, but probably just as fierce and commanding as your friend huh?" Rowarin chuckles a little and with that, the bird flies away. He glances over to raise his glass to Mizu, only to find him dozing in his chair. He smirks, and turns back to the others
Leeta seems to be the liveliest of the bunch, perky and full of energy. If her personality doesn't lift the spirits of anyone in the room, what will! Rowarin finds himself lingering too long at Leeta, blinks into attention and scans the room. He catches the backend of the conversation happening... Zale? If that is someone Rowarin has met, he does not recall. He feels a bit of guilt realising he's in a jovial mood after their minor victory... Against what though? He plays the motions out in his mind, recalling precise information of the events that passed. There was that forest path. I can still feel the magics lingering around me.. but most surprising, I felt, Necrotic magics. Something down that path was forcing us to retreat, didn't want us looking there.
Rowarin keeps this in mind, but not wanting to jump into business so soon he shall wait for his moment. He listens on the conversation between the drow and the barkeep, and glimpses at what seems like a bad idea, to head back out. Rowarin chooses to bide his time over and see if he makes a move. In the meantime, Rowarin looks back at Rixian and sees him sitting away from the group, with Leeta trying to persuade him over. Rowarin will choose to shimmy his chair over, whilst trying not to spill his ale, and sits closer to Rixian. If he has a drink, Rowarin will raise his glass to clink with Rixians, and says "You my comrade, you wield that polearm in ways I've never encountered before. I'm most impressed! I must ask though, standing side by side with you in heated combat, I couldn't help but perceive that something was playing on your mind. As it does now. Is there anything I can do to ease any of those... Burdens from you?"
Sitting in a corner after failing to get Rowarin's attention, he doesn't even notice Leeta's high five as he then withdraws for the night. Awaiting to overhear some more potential info about the victims though, Rixian continues to fiddle with his long-dead smartphone by himself. He does so for next 10 minutes until he spot something with his keen eye: The sight of the white hawk Soma, preening her master's hair before she fluffs up, clicks her beak and then nuzzles each and every one of the others sitting at the bar. His hands flare up in jealousy before they return to normal, though not before he wears a pained look on his face. It's been so long since he interacted with beautiful birds of prey like this one, let alone one alone all by himself. It's as if his inner child has just been reactivated to soothe his emotional soul again. No rather, as he clutches his pendant again and smiles, it glows white as it suddenly creates a brown feather sticking out of it. Yeah, it's that moment just he flashbacks in his own head; it reminds him of that one time, before the white dragon Cryovain's attack... when he finally coerces out of his shell and better leads the Shifters because of someone... special.
"Ow- Omae! Daisy?! What's with this brown falcon pecking at my hair?! And why are you in my room?! Can you like... Seriously, please get him to stop and leave my private sector. Why is he even barging into my room in the first place? Why are you also here?!"
"That's because he's my falcon, stupid. I told him to go peck your head until it bruises if I ever catch you sitting away from the shifters during a social event. And your living room blinds were clearly not drawn I can tell you that. Maybe he might put some sense into your sensitive, dense skull for once. What are you even moping about anyways in private, huh? Come on spill it out!"
"Seriously? Look I wasn't even moping for a split second! Can't you already tell that I enjoy my solitude just as much as you enjoy him? Or what you're expecting me to-"
"Sigh... no, you jerk... the whole point I'm trying to convey is that I myself especially don't enjoy seeing you all alone. And neither does my falcon here. Sometimes I still wonder why I'm even making the effort to coerce you into coming out these days, let alone intrude your personal space... unless of course you have something personal to hide from us... right? I mean, I won't pry into this any further for now. Plus I think that since you're the leader of us, you're better off trying to improve your social skills rather than just act like a timid wallflower with no leadership qualities. Ain't that right, Raja?"
*Daisy whistles to the brown falcon to perch on Rixi's right shoulder as it lets out an ear piercing squawk, right as it lands and she sits down besides his left and leans into his shoulder, placing some dry meat into his hands.*
"Raja? Daisy? Why are you placing meat into my hands?"
"That's his name. Pretty fancy huh? Now... *Daisy cups his ash black hands and lifts them up* You heard that squawk right? Feed him. You can wash your hands later when we're done."
"Uh... What are you-"
"Shut up and feed him, stupid! Raja's telling you that he's hungry!" *She grabs his hand and makes him feed her hungry hawk* "Now look at him! He wants to preen your hair! Go on! Don't be shy! He won't cause serious head injuries!"
"But Daisy-"
"Do it! Let him groom you or I'll drag you out onstage unprepared!"
*Rixi lets Raja preen his long, unignited hair as he groans in defeat; Raja squawks cheerfully as he nuzzles Rixi's cheek*
"You know, I'm already convinced he's taken a liking to you, much like someone else... But I won't tell you who, ok?" *The Wood Elf winks teasily as she locks her green eyes onto Rixi's molten ones and smirks* "But, Raja aside, I understand your needs to recharge alone. I'll always respect that, much as you respect me as one of your own. *She then gently whistles to Raja to perch on her shoulder again as she gently strokes his face* Let me know when you're ready to take the stage. Just you and me."
"Uh... Is never an option?" *Rixi teasily smirks back, only to be elbowed* "OW! What the-?!"
"Idiot! So much for being nice...! You're dumped!" *She gets up and leaves Rixi stunned... but then sticks out her tongue with a smile before she and Raja leave*
"Sigh... honestly... what's with her attitude towards me? And Raja... I wish he could stay, no, I wished the both of them could stay... forever... She's the one that's in love with me... isn't she? I already know..."
As he returns to the present moment, he lets out a sigh that could've been heard if it wasn't for the endless stream of chatter coming from the bar counter. Yeah, if Daisy was here, she'd fall in love with that hawk. Maybe she'd even challenge Soma's master to see who's the better falcon whisperer perhaps. Maybe... if Raja was even alive by now, he's befriend Soma too. Maybe... if he his adoptive kin hadn't bite the dust, he would've opened up to Mizu a lot more than now too. He smiles to himself... only to jolt violently when he hears a thud from the table adjacent to him plus...
Oh. So that's who was rapping her claws on the table. It's none other than Soma herself. And then as she flies back, he sees the tiny monk Leeta waving towards him... she's such a social butterfly; Her attitude clearly reminds him of Daisy and Yuri too, in a way, trying to get him to come join them in social events, except without all of the Tsundere acts such as hair pulling and forced dragging out of his room. Even so though, he just dismissively waves his hand back without changing his emotionless expression. "I'll pass." Rixi calls out, though he's unsure if any of them even heard him clearly.
Those people will never understand why he decides to be alone for now; He's still unstable inside. Not only he needs to recharge, but he keeps a distance, so that he doesn't end up as a potential danger to anyone else; Either sit in a corner to douse the hostile flames or wander to the bar and risk being a predator that might take innocent lives in the process.
His decision to remain isolated from everyone else but remain passive, is proof that he does care. Proof that he doesn't want them to be hurt by his own, flaming instability. At least, until he becomes surprised by...
Rixi's pupiless orange eyes widen in shock. That's the Aasimar that he tried to call out and never got a chance to talk to! That's him. So as soon as Rowarin immediately settles down next to him instead, he immediately is at a loss of words as he raps his hands nervously and glances to another direction before making eye contact with him. "Um... uh... Arigato... Uh I-I mean... t-t-thank you. Um... y-y-your magic... you were pretty skilled on the battlefield too... eheheh..." Rixi immediately stutters. Already surprised by the Aasmar's decision to chat with him, he struggles to comprehend his next sentence until he is asked what drink he'll have. "Um... I don't drink. Maybe uh... just water would do, if you um, if you have to." Maybe, just maybe, this might be his chance to make an actual comrade along the way... maybe, he could teach him some coordinated attack, let alone some team combos of his own too, starting with him. His optimism has sort of risen as of this. As he swivels his gaze to somewhere else, he hopes to start an actual conversation with him. Maybe find a common interest on what they could discuss. And then he flashes back to that Zale person as he breathes...
"So... um... Those two have been... mentioning about this... Zale person." He starts off. Whilst his speech is now meticulously slow, his stutters have noticeably faded as his voice smoothens without fear whilst he drifts away from his worries for now. "Is there anything you perhaps might know about him, or whether he might link to our previous investigation?"
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)
Mina joins most of the party up at the counter and is amused to see Mizu fall asleep. Poor kid, been through a lot today. and Mina knew she didn't know the half of it since she, Kulogall and Rowarin were here trying to chat the others up, the other three were running down.. Twig was it? Mina sure hoped the drow was right and that the missing weren't in fact deceased.
After a couple of swigs of her ale and being amused by Soma, she pets the bird's beak if the hawk lets her, she watches the drow as he hesitates at the door. Turning to Kulogall, "I'm completely fine, unlike the ones that were attacked by the plant dogs, I'm going to go check on this drow, feel free to join if you want."
Walking over to the dark elf, "Sorry for the harsh words earlier, I can now understand your reluctance to talk to us. And yes, at least from what I have encountered, our feelings of the high elf as you call him, are mutual. Not sure if you have other reasons, but mine are just from spending an hour in his company." she looks back to her party and sees they are all enjoying each other and that makes her happy, she hopes this group who appear to work well together in combat, can come together out of it as well. Back to the drow she asks, "I am sorry for overhearing, but you asked Bill about a name, Zale? Did you want company if you're heading back out? Or we all can help you in the morning."
(Loving all the RP ya'll :D)
Bill and Lilliana busy themselves with providing food and drink for the party. Bill even provides the first round of whatever kind of drink they wish for on the house. The few other guests in the building seem a little uncomfortable with the large white bird flying around inside, but they don't complain about it. You all are supposed to be helping the village after all.
After his pause, the dark elf glances back at the door, then at Cassian before Mina approaches him. He shrugs at her apology, then nods at her words concerning Cassian. He shrugs again at her second apology. "Zale is another bounty hunter who came here recently. She's that dragonborn who was messing with your child companion earlier." He gestures to the dozing Mizu. Turning he walks to the side of the room opposite of Cassian to find a table. Though when he turns he sees Rixian has claimed his usual dark corner. This causes his scowl to deepen, though he quickly adjusts his course to the slightly less dark corner of the room, close to the Inn's door. Lowering his voice, he continues "She tends to stay out late a lot anyways...just usually not this late." He shakes his head, "She's going to have to fend for herself. She'll probably be fine, and I don't think two elves out alone is a good idea." He sounds extremely un-pleased when he states the last sentence. "It will have to wait until morning." Though as he says this, he glances towards the door. Clearly he feels like something's off, though based on his demeanor on the way to the inn, you get the feeling he's always like that.
(Ya'll can either continue to RP if you'd like. I don't want to cut off any interactions between PCs or between NPCs if ya'll have more to say. Just let me know when you are ready to move forward. Once you all go to bed, you can take a long rest.)
Soma gladly accepts any attention she can get from Mizu's comrades, making the equivalent of a purring sound whenever she receives friendly words or even better--petting. Clearly, she likes being the center of attention, and would like for everyone to be within her eyesight, especially since her master is currently asleep. Ultimately deciding not to wake Mizu up, she rotates around the room, visiting every table to spend time with each of her master's comrades before they all head off to bed.
Mizu on the other hand remains fast asleep unless someone decides to wake him up.
Aha! Now this is something to take note of before a good night's rest; Quickly pulling out a tiny notebook that lays deep within the pockets of his fiery vest, he begins scribbling notes incase anyone else forgets about the details. "You hear that? Our next target appears to be a dragonborn. It seems like she has some bad blood... with..." He then stares at Mizu with hesitancy. Soma is probably the number one reason for Rixian's immense self-control towards him. He'd hate to see her die in combat, even though that vengeful demon inside him wants to see so; It feels messed up. But... to hear that this Zale has been a source of his troubles is... concerning indeed too. Every so often he whips his gaze to Rowarin, wondering if he can even pay attention at this point. "She stays out late, but they say she has to fend for herself..." He quietly muses to himself and Rowarin. "...does that mean she's still perhaps.. immature, in a way? Maybe her behaviour might have to relate to something or someone...?"
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)