The Exploits of Misfit Company

Barnabus rubs his chin, and looks askance, seeming to consider the question for a few moments. "It would be nice having a tenday or two to just relax for a spell. 'cause it certainly has been awhile since we had one." He folds his arms and sighs. "Plus, I know I can use that time to figure out that whole artificer business, so that mabye someday I can.. I dunno... It'd be nice to have the time to actually think for a second though, ya know? And it ain't like most of us hurt'n fer coin at the moment since that job before last."

Stella nods. "A break could be nice," she agrees.

Obsidian curls up on the table and falls asleep.

Kasha, too, curls up on the table and begins softly snoring.

Yvan is chewing on a mouthful of eggs when Vastra begins to talk about a possible break, the giant giving a one shouldered shrug before swallowing. "I'm fine with taking a break... Could use it to practice more with the sword... Garden..." He  trails off as he looks over to the snoozing Kasha, setting down his fork to gently pick her up from the table (because it's rude to just sleep there when people are trying to eat, gosh) and hold her like a baby. "Try to get this one to bathe."

"Hey." Kasha says groggily. "What are..where are we going? Hey. Wait, the bathroom? Why a- whoa, you're turning on the water. Are you taking a bath? Huh. Hey. What? Wait. No. What are you going. Yvan! Yvan! Yvan!!!! Hey, quit it! Stop! I don't wann- No! I don't wanna take a bath! No! Stop! Get off my cheeks, man! HEY! YVAN!!"

This went on for about 10 minutes, with the inclusion of lots of frantic water splashing, dishes crashing, cat screaming, some hissing, and maybe a donkey braying, too, you're not sure, but it's painfully evident the bath did NOT go well.

Once Kasha would get up and leave her lap, Alys will pick herself up off the floor. As the others leave Dio's store, she'll accept her new sword before starting to doff some of her armour. The elf will remove her chain shirt and heft her shield onto the counter. "I'd like to trade-in and or upgrade my armour."

(I know Alys just got a fancy new sword and you gave us 1 item or upgrade, but if there's a 'generic' acceptable upgrade Alys could get for either of these items she would. Obviously pay if it's within budget as well. Basically a chain mail would be fine. A +1 shield too much? Sorry I'm slow in thinking/bringing this up. Assuming she'll come back to pick up after.)

Once done making an arrangement with Dio, Alys would leave the store to catch up behind the others just in time to enter the inn for breakfast. She'll help herself to a healthy portion of food and a little extra to pack away for snacks later. The elf will eat and enjoy her meal in silence while the others chime in their preferences on a break, simply nodding along in agreement. She'd mean to chime in to ask Yvan a question during his comments, but when he'd whisk Kasha off for a bath, she'd decide to wait.

Alys would stand outside by the doorway while all the commotion happens from Kasha's bath. Should any water leak outside the door, she'd use her magic to clean it up while she waited.

Eventually the crashing and banging sounds stopped, and soon only the sound of splashing water could be heard. Then, sounds of someone getting out of a tub angrily, and hasty towel wiping with mumbling and frustration. Kasha stomped over to the door, opened it and looked at Alys.

”Oh hey!” she said sadly, yet happy to see her. “SOMEone made me bathe.” she said in a sad and frustrated tone. For perhaps one of few times, Kasha was actually clean. No dirt on her face, no leaves in her hair, her fingernails were trimmed and proper, even. Her tan skin had no evidence at all that she spent most of her life outdoors, and she even smelled good. Her shoulders sank at the next thing she mentioned. “Can you..uh..help me comb my hair? I don’t..ever.”

Alys: You're easily able to purchase a set of chain mail from the blacksmith. Also, level up to 9.

"10 or 20 days would be a nice time to take a break. It would give me an opportunity to do some reading and even some writing about the things we've come across in our adventures."

Everyone: Since most of your characters have expressed the intention of taking a break, feel free to write up a post about what your character is doing during the next 20 days. Whether they're just lounging around, doing some research, going to the beach, going to the city to catch a performance that they've wanted to see, whatever fun they want to do is fair game.

Yvan emerged from the room soon after Kasha did, water dripping from his hair, a brush in one hand, and an almost defeated expression on his now scratched up face. He had managed to get her clean, even got her nails trimmed too! But, really, at what cost? "I've never met someone so... unwilling to bathe..." Yvan's words are listless when they escape him followed by a sigh, but he seemed to perk up a bit at the sight of Alys. "Ah, sorry, were you waiting long?" He gives a pat on Kasha's head. "You have this one to thank for that. I tried to brush her hair but she ran off when I went to get the comb... Probably got a lot of knots... so if you don't want to comb her hair, I don't blame you."

"Hhhhhh..." Kasha sighed, like an annoyed wet cat.

Barnabus watched the whole initially display with a wiry grin, and fingers waggling at the retreating trio in goodbye. While that whole mess is sorting itself out, it is back to the eggwhich for sorcerer. However, whenever the trio should make their return to the table, one side is at least covered in various papers covered in scrawling nonsensical words. Most of which did not even appear to be even in common! Thankfully, the orchestrator of the mess, Barnabus, at least offered some excuse about the writings involving 'plans' for the next twenty days, before attention drifts back to them.

Upon the groups inevitable return to the mansion, Barnabus stays only long enough to assist in the inscribing of runes necessary for the egg, and at least some attempt of assigning one of the help in checking up on it from time to time. Then, the 'half-orc' is -- or at least tries to be -- away from the mansion for most days, unless otherwise demanded to stay. Odd considering initial obsession. And yet, since the 'correction' about it, he certainly became more aloof about it. For barnabus, and he would say as much if cornered and asked, the only concern for him was learning infernal in town from likely whatever smart tiefling crossed his bath, meditation int he evenings, and experimenting off grounds with various minor enchantments and cobbled together materials he manages to get a hold of.

Alys would chuckle, "No I wasn't waiting long." She'd smile, then with a couple waves of her hand, using magic, she'd whick away the water to dry Yvan from Kasha's bath. She'd then look to the druid to respond, "Of course, I can help you brush your hair. We'll keep it wet so it's a little easier to work out any of those tangles." The wizard was a little surprised at the request but definitely found it sweet and would happily accept a comb. "We might want to find somewhere to get comfortable if it's going to take as long as Yvan says." She'll wink.

"I um... actually came here to ask for home help too..." Her cheeks would start to turn a shade of pink and she'd glance down at the floor. "You can say no. I understand..." Alys will look to Kasha, then back up to Yvan, "Can I... will you... train me in close combat?"

Stella spends most of her downtime practicing with her new electrified rapier and hanging out with Rinn, making sure to check on the egg once a day to make sure everything is in order with it. She resigns herself after a few days to Obsidian's antics with Kasha, cleaning up after them when necessary (possibly with Yvan's assistance).

Alys was pretty good at combing hair. It took a little longer than it should have, because Kasha rarely combed her hair, which was deep brown and down to her shoulder blades. Of course it was knotty, but as Alys tugged at them, Kasha didn't mind. She was still a little frustrated at being clean, but she did like the way her skin felt now that she was. She looked over herself while Alys worked, noticing her clean nails and how there was no dirt between her fingers or toes anymore. She actually looked proper. She couldn't wait to go outside again. She had the silly notion that if she went outside and talked to people, she'd actually look like a proper young woman. When Alys was done, she looked in the mirror and was astonished to see how pretty she actually was, and it made her heart swell. She dressed in a plain white shirt that was a couple of sizes too small and shorts, gave Alys a big loving kiss in thanks, and trotted downstairs.

She told everyone that she was going to "behave" and "have fun exploring" and gave Obsidian "the look" and both of them were gone.

Kasha could barely contain her excitement at all the possibilities. She didn't want to wildshape into a cat just yet in front of all the people, that might spook someone, so while Obsidian frolicked by her side she said, "Uch, finally! Away from people! So, what do you wanna do? We could scare people, or steal some fish, or go see what we can find in people's houses! KHKHKH!" she snorted in a laugh, "Or we could-" Obsidian meowed a few times and Kasha gasped in delight. "You are BAD! YES! C'MON!" 

When they were both out of sight from people, she turned into a green eyed cat and both of them ran down an alley and were not seen back for days.

Kasha also took a day to wander into the forest alone, where she found a quiet grove to have a moment to herself. She called out to her mother. A breeze caressed her, a loving warm breeze, perfect, and pure, and that's how Kasha knew. "Hello, Mother. I missed you! How is Father?" she asked sadly, then answered her mother's questions. "Well, that's good. I will, soon. One day. I do feel bad. Yes. I am. Well, sort of. They treat me well, but..sometimes I lose my way. Probably why father grew so frustrated with me. Among..other things.."

This went on for a little while longer, and at the end, she got up and left the woods where Obsidian was waiting at the edge of it, and they both headed back to town. Those of whom are perceptive would hear rumors around the town of missing jewelry and coins, a shortage of fish and milk, the news of how a young woman wrestled a crocodile, missing underwear and shoes, a ruined marriage, people with other random injuries, the dog kennel on fire, and a smile pile of dead pigeons by the temple.  

"Wouldn't be an issue if you tried to make bathing and brushing apart of your normal routine..." Yvan suggests lightly to the druid, his hand falling back to his side soon after Alys agrees to take the challenge of brushing Kasha's hair. He gives her a small smile in appreciation, having been a bit tired with wrangling a wild child for most of the day. She probably would have more luck in getting Kasha to sit still as well. "If you need help, just call me. Oh, and thank you for the clean up as well."

Yvan gives Alys a nod and makes way to leave, however he stops himself when Alys speaks up again, tilting his head to the side at how nervous she looked. The question itself seems to have gotten him... conflicted. He had never been a teacher before, and whatever 'training' he had personally wasn't exactly the easiest or kindest ways of doing so. Would he even had been a good mentor? Then there was always the possibility that he could accidentally hurt her, and he wouldn't be able to forgive himself had that happened.

His lips part to give an answer, but he hesitates. Alys was a capable woman. She could handle a lot, and was very knowledgeable on her own, so he had to assume she knew the risks in asking him for help... not to mention she's helped him more times than he could possibly count. In the case of him being unable to protect her, some combat training would be good for her to have too. It would just be a matter of being careful, maybe planning out a few sessions correctly... After a few more moments of debating, he finally says, "If you think you'll be able to handle it... then okay. I'm not... a great teacher, but I'll try. We can start tomorrow if you want...?"

Alys watched as her question caused internal turmoil for their gentle giant. It was the reason for her hesitation, but the truth was, she trusted him and looked up to him, and not only physically. The passion and desire to protect those around them was evident in both their cases. And should something go awry, she'd be able to apply knowledge and learning to that aspect of training as well. "Maybe we'll surprise each other." Trying to muster up the most assuring smile and confident nod, Alys would agree before throwing her arms around his waist to give him a hug before running off with Kasha. "Thank you, Yvan." She appreciated the chance he was taking on their training.

The scholar was patient and didn't rush the combing of Kasha's hair. Sure the druid would fidget and squirm as she inspected her recently cleaned figure, but it was plenty calm for her. Alys would start to hum the melody of a hymn from her childhood as she fell into a groove working through her hair. "There..." the elf would finish the last through brush strokes then use her fingers to comb through the druid's hair to do one last check to make sure the tangles were out. "Now don't cause too much mischief." She'll say playfully before sending Kasha on her way. She'd be left in surprise and blushed from her fast and affectionate goodbye.

Alys would be sure to arrive with all her new gear to show the Yvan what she intends to use on their next adventure. "It's, a lot. And I believe I should train fully equipped. At some point. But, I thought..." The elf would look up to the giant and reveal some familiar canes from behind her back. "I borrowed these, thinking we could start familiarizing ourselves with each other's movement and build comfort?" Her cheeks would blush worried she might sound too cheesy for training. But the truth was, she interpreted fighting like a dance. She believed their training together would help her beyond honing skills with a blade, it could help with harmony while fighting side by side against a foe. And it went without saying, the use of a staff like object would be safer as they'd build up intensity in training, eventually working in her armour and their blades. Alys would show up early, 'bright-eyed' and 'bushy-tailed' every morning Yvan would suggest, ensuring to respect the time he spends training with her.

Outside of training, Alys would mend their bumps and bruises from training and spend time tending to the garden. She'd focus on honing her medical knowledge and building up her healing repertoire. The scholar would take extra care studying the medicinal plant and herbs hoping to create her own stash of portable healing kits.

Of course, she, along with the others assigned, would check on the egg. During her inspections she would take the time to study and jot down any changes, should there be any, for their own records. Inbetween her medical studies and training, she would browse for any information related to or hinting to silver dragons and or raising dragons. Should Vastra or B be interested in collaborating, sharing or reviewing any information, she would care to participate. She'd even consult with Nariaki.

Kasha, one day while having second lunch, realized now was a good time. She slammed her fist on the table, startling Obsidian, who was somewhat patiently waiting for her to feed him some more of her chicken sandwich. He looked up and gave her an inquisitive glance. "I think i'll write to my dad. Come on." 

She went upstairs and took out a piece of small parchment and a quill, and wrote as legibly as she could, which wasn't very good. Obsidian sat on the table and watched her write.

"Dear Father, it's Kasha. I spoke with Mother the other day and I wanted to take the opportunity to write to you, too. I know I haven't been a perfect child, and i'm sorry. But, I love you and I miss you. If it makes you feel better, the people I spend my days with are good people, they treat me very nicely, and one day i'm going to turn into a giant T-rex."

She looked at Obsidian for his opinion, who shook his head no. Kasha thought harder for a moment, and fixed her letter.

"Dear Father, it's Kasha. I spoke with Mother the other day and I wanted to take the opportunity to write to you, too. I know I haven't been a perfect child, and i'm sorry. But, I love you and I miss you. If it makes you feel better, the people I spend my days with are good people, they treat me very nicely, and one day i'm going to turn into a giant T-rex  and if it's ok with you, i'd like to visit you one day when I have more time."

She looked at Obsidian again, who nodded his head yes. Kasha smiled. She rolled it up and whistled sharply. A pigeon landed on the windowsill. "Can you please take this to my dad? Thank you! Here is something for you now, and come back and i'll feed you some worms." she told the pigeon as she gently tied the note to it's leg, and allowed it to eat some small worms from her hand.

Kasha and Obsidian watched as the pigeon flew away.

Kasha: After you and Obsidian cause chaos in town, you come back a few days later to find that a notice has been posted that the all stray or unaccompanied cats are to be rounded up by the town guard and taken to an animal shelter. At this same time, your pigeon friend comes back with a note attached to its' leg. You recognize the writing as belonging to your father.

Kasha,

I'm glad that you were able to take the time to write to me. How's your mother doing?  I know that I got frustrated with the pranks that you used to pull when you were little, but it really was a blessing to have you as my daughter, so free and full of life. I was just frankly overwhelmed, having to handle a ball of energy mostly on my own. I'd like to have you visit one day too and if you want to bring those friends of yours over as well, feel free to do so.

I love you, my little Kashbear.

Alys:

The egg mainly stays still, although as you carefully observe it, you are able to notice the occasional rumble and other stirring that lets you know something's alive in there. You and Vastra share notes, and find that while dragons do not typically raise their young, the good-aligned dragons do have some social tendencies and you do believe that once hatched, the dragon will develop an attachment towards all of you. The two of you also find that like all dragons, silver dragons are meat eaters and prefer their meals frozen.

The giant manages to get a crooked smile to tug at the corner of his lip when he sees her smile to him, only for it to drop when she surprises him with a hug. When she pulls away and heads off with Kasha after her thank you, he's left there with flushed red cheeks and a mind filling with uncertainty. After a few more seconds of standing there, he scratches the back of his neck as he heads way to his room, needing to wrack his mind for training regimens that would last them to the end of their vacation.

The first morning of their training, just when the sun peeks out from the horizon, Yvan could be seen prepping a few logs that they would be using for warm ups. When Alys approaches him with all the gear she intends to use in an upcoming mission, he gives her an assuring nod that they would work up to using them. Her enthusiasm is endearing to him, and he finds that his worry is slowly being washed away. He takes the canes from her with a small smile. "This will be just fine, but first..." He gestures to the logs. "We need to warm up your muscles first."

Throughout the days they had to spend, Yvan had done his best in training Alys to be in tip top shape for any new job that sprung out for the misfits. He found himself genuinely enjoying his time with the cleric, her excitement being utterly infectious, and he only hoped she was learning new things during their time together. When they weren't training, Yvan had been tending to the garden along side her, looking for Kasha (evidently worrying about her, though the little pranks and misfortunes being heard about let him know she was doing fine, just being her normal self), and making an effort to decorate his room to make it more 'homey'. Having had no real interest in the egg, he left the watching duties to the others, but had they needed something from him, he would assist with no complaints. 

On the day the pigeon flew into her face and delivered the letter, Kasha said, "What the? Oh! A letter!" Kasha unraveled it, read it, and her eyes watered.

"I love you too, daddy." she whispered.