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Fantasy Aerumen

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Mircea eyed Mission as she spoke, biting the side of his lip in thought when she walked off. Foxy pulled him from his mind.

"That's up to her, but I do hope she learns to stop punishing herself." He spoke softly, trying to prevent the others from overhearing. Blu's ears wiggled with the noises around them, leaving Mircea unsure if he was successful.

Alter and Falma seemed somewhat unfased, Alter more apathetic than the female. Falma had her arms crossed now, soaking in the warmth of the fire.

Blu wasn't sure how to take this information. He squirmed on his seat, his tail flicking at the air in annoyance. "Can someone please just tell me what happened?"

"Ah.." Mircea seemed somewhat surprised, his lips parted to speak, but he couldn't get the words out. He looked over to the others, as if asking for help.

Alter stopped carving on the dagger, turning to look at Blu with an expression the boy couldn't place. He seemed like he was going to speak, but his words were cut off by a deep, gruff voice Blu hadn't only heard in muffled whispers before.

"Since none of these whimpering sods will tell you, I guess I'll be the one to do it."

Blu peered at the big man as he stepped closer to the camp fire. His hair was long and braided into locks that were pulled back from his head. His skin tan, darker than Bast's, and his eyes were a brown that looked black in the night. The boy sunk a bit as the man got closer. He was almost as big as Foxy, but his intimidating form was brought down as he sat on the ground near the fire. Blu could see a few scars on his skin, two clean ones running across his face that moved when he spoke. This was Mal.

"A few years back, there was a king, King Artemis, who became corrupt. He disliked implines of all sort, but he especially hated the northlings. Using his hatred of them, he turned a lot of people against them and began a slaughter that is still fresh on many people's minds. People thought that they had been wiped from the earth before it could be brought to an end. It wasn't right, Boy, and there were people who fought against him from the beginning."

Blu seemed shocked. Not in the way that one would be in receiving a present, or finding out about a secret. He was frozen, his eyes wide as he stared at the man.

"You're young, but it is best you know now than find out later. What happened to your people is unforgivable, but it can't be changed."

Alter started carving again, though the grazing of the metal became quite slow in comparison to before.

Falma commented. "Now, look what you've done."

Mal hadn't lost that solid frown or the furrow of his brow, even under the scolding gaze of Mircea. But, his voice became somewhat softer as he reached and patted the boy's head.

"Come out of it, Boy."

Blu's hand rushed to meet Mal's, and for a moment Mircea thought he would try to smack it away. Instead, the boy pulled the giant hand down and held on to it tightly. Mal's features scrunched further in, but he didn't pull away.

"He's a strong one, can barely feel my finger." Mal said, giving the others pitiful chuckles.

"Are there any more like me?" Blu suddenly spoke after a few minutes of silence.

"Yes," Mircea responded, "somewhere. Ahur made sure of that, as he did with you. You're not all gone as they say."

This lifted Blu some, but there was an unmistakable sadness to his form. "I want to find them."

"In due time, we will help you, but we must get to the elf city first. No doubt Ahur probably had that next on the list of things to do." Mircea seemed satisfied with his answer at first, but seeing the boy's disappointment stirred him. "If it will help ease your mind some, I can find people who will look for them while we travel there."

Blu nodded and leaned his head on to the big man's arm. He had grown quite tired with the night fall.

"Mal, will you take him to bed and watch over him? No one you don't know is allowed in the caravans." Mircea asked, and Mal nodded. He picked up Blu and carried him off to the caravans, placing him in to his cot and sitting on guard at Correll's.


Mircea huffed, rubbing his face. Alter finished the second dagger and placed it to the side.

"Why does that man, Mal, speak of it?" Falma asked, as if in accusation.

"Well, Falma, Mal was part of the group who fought against King Artemis' slaughter." Mircea had some snarkiness to his tone.

"He was a Frozen?"

"That's obvious, Falma." Alter said, leaning to one side. "The brand on his shoulder was a hammer with ice."

"I couldn't tell.." Falma seemed meeker now, some guilt in her voice. She nodded her head, as if to apologize.

"It's fine, most people assume the worst of him. He's big and intimidating. Only reason he started traveling with us is because he is wanted. Going against Artemis, even if it was for a good cause, is still considered treason."

Falma nodded again to say she understood. She coiled a strand of hair around her fingers before moving away from them. "I'm going to rest, been awake since sunrise." She bid them farewell and sauntered off to her tent, one close to Alter's.


"You don't have to finish these tonight. Come back to in the morning if you feel that you're too tired to continue."

Alter glanced at Mircea as he embedded magic in to the daggers, his fingers glowing a bright yellow with the crystal he held in his palm. When he finished be handed it to Mircea who stood to take it.

"Give this a few swings, see if it works. If not, I'll reimburse you."

Mircea nodded and swiped at the fire, a slash of wind cutting through it and causing it to split and dance back together. The wind continued onward, rustling the tents.

"Fantastic!" Mircea exclaimed, spinning the dagger in his palm.

"I'm glad you're satisfied with it. Remember to recharge the magic with a yellow crystal." Alter paused, rubbing the back of his neck. "I think I will take a break. Don't mind me if I come back later to work on them."

With that, Alter took his kit with him and walked off. He stopped to put the kit away in his tent, but didn't stay there. Instead, he went to find the woman named Mission, peering in to the open tents and the areas around them.


Mircea moved to where Alter once was, taking his seat and the second dagger in to his hands. "What do you two think of our new companions?"
 
"I like em! Buuuut, they're both so troubled. Naturally."

"Have you noticed how the boy has a bond with Mission already?"

"Like... how do you mean Arbie?"

"C'mon Foxy! Tell me you've seen it Mircea, Ahur knew something. It's there. It's unlikely but it's hard to explain."

"Hmmm" Foxy pouted and tried to think.

Arbonath just let out a gruff sigh and folded his arms, letting the embers of the fire light up his features. "The past couple days have proved it. Even with her not being fond of being around him, she can't help but be protective of Blu. I don't know if it'll be a good thing if they become too reliant on each other, but they will be strong as long as they are together. Just..."

Foxy suddenly pounded the earth beside her with a huff, "SHIT! Aww well he'll be here tomorrow, totally forgot to get the Carver to take a look at MY Sword."

"...Woman I'm tryna speak."


Mission walked off from the conversation and she took Ludo for a little walk in the cool air, mainly to sort her head out. She pulled him through the campsite for a bit before finding a spot. She stood in front of her loyal companion and ran her hand down his long head, tutting at him and smiling. She whispered some playful things at Ludo and he responded by trotting his feet and then licking her face, nudging at her shoulder and neck playfully he managed to stifle a laugh from the woman and she almost laughed out loud when the horse managed to tickle her.

"Stop stop, bad horse."

Ludo huffed in response to being called bad, but she just grinned at him and rested her forehead against her stead's. "I never thanked you properly for saving me, I'll get you some carrots in the morning."

She had a look around the tents, there was clearly some up to do some late night drinking and socialising in. She walked passed them, peaking in or nodding at people who had spilled outside to have a few drinks in the cool air. These tents were big enough to be a bar inside, she'd been on the road for the past week almost and hadn't had the chance to get some alcohol down her - she was starting to crave it... not the taste, just the feeling.

Mission was then nudged in the back by her horse and she turned around with a raised eyebrow, the horse flicked his head at a figure looking in to a tent that she recognised. But he didn't go in to the tent, it was the Carver; Alter. She placed a hand on her hip and waited for him to turn around and see her, she raised her eyebrow with a little curl of a smile edging at the end of her mouth. She'd calmed down a little,

"Done already? Fancy a drink?"
 
Mircea chuckled at Foxy's outburst. His thumbs gently ran over the carvings, studying the handiwork as he spoke. "I have noticed it. The first night I met them was supposedly their first time meeting and the boy already seemed somehow attached to her, and she was protective of him. I can't speak for Ahur, but I wouldn't put it behind that sneaky wispa to leave a few things out when he told me about this." His tone wasn't hateful, or even snarky, it was a soft tune. One of trust, if not some amusement.

Mircea shifted, placing the daggers next to him. "I know a few things, about her- no, their future, but..." His eyes trailed to the side, "It's complicated you know, the divines are tricky beings. I can say it will be one of hardship, their troubles won't end any time soon. But, there will also be happiness. That happiness can help them if they allow it."


Alter gave a half smile when he finally found Mission, walking closer to her.

"Aye, done for now. I want to see that sword you mentioned, and I'd love a drink," He fiddled with his claws as he spoke like a restless worker's fidget, though he kept his eyes on the woman. "Or two. Come on, I know where to get the best ale here." The impline's sharp canine was flashed for a moment as his smile widened for a moment and he turned to lead the way. It wasn't far from where they started.

They entered one of the bigger tents. Small wooden tables were filled with people drinking and chatting, a woman sat on a barrels singing a tune that a few of the people sung along with. Alter moved to the polished wooden bar at it's center where a small male sprite sat. He was dressed attire similar to an innkeeper, his brown hair curling around his face and the lopsided rocks that covered part of his face.

"What can I get ya'?" The bar tender asked merrily, standing up from his seated position on the bar.

"We'd like some drinks."

"Do you fancy sour, bitter, or sweet?"

"Surprise me." Alter had a happy pitch to his voice.

"And you, miss?" The sprite looked up to Mission, peeking over the heads of people sitting at the bar.

After they finished ordering the barkeep lead them to an empty table in the tent. It was some way from the entrance, but close enough that one could see out of it.

Alter sat down and waited for the drinks to be brought to them, a small plate of fresh cut bread also added to the table. He could only assume they had some issues with people drinking too much on an empty stomach.

"Now, about that blade.."
 
"Happiness?" Foxy blushed at the thought, trailing off in her mind.

"Hmm, I think if anyone is going to struggle with that it'll be 'er. She gotta open up to the boy more." The Dwarf was stroking his beard, contemplating the future as Mircea had talked about it. He let out a sigh that had a hint of sad laced in it, "I worry. We have always been on the road and there are those dangers, but now we have this task... and there is not doubt it is a risky one. I hope that none of us get hurt, or worse and I'll look after you all as best I can." He was still talking as gruff as he usually did, but he was kind & did indeed sound like he was worried, though his voice didn't break. He did also sound quite confident when he promised to protect them.

"Same here! You're all my little munchkins, I love you all and I don't know where I'd be if you hadn't picked me up. I'm sure over time our new friends will think the same."

The Dwarf stood up off his stool with a huff, pulling his bottoms up around his belly, "I feel like we should have poured some drinks for a Toast, but AYE! For the good of the Caravan and to make things a little right for the world." He dramatically raised his fist in the air and then let out a hearty laugh.


Mission rolled her eyes and followed the Impline, she didn't blame him for taking an interest in her sword. She felt the exact same way having it for the first time, and it took her a while to learn what it could do - though the Carver might be able to learn about it in a much quicker time. Mission followed, pulling Ludo along with them until they reached their destination. She gave him a pet and told him he could go back to the Caravan before she entered, he stayed outside.

The makeshift bar in a tent was actually quite nice and it's environment was decent, a lot more decent than proper pubs. The sprite at the bar was polite, she leaned her backside against the bar, resting her hands against it's surface. He first asked Alter what he wanted and then her;

"Aaaah I'll take bitter."

The two were led to their table next and Mission pulled the seat between her legs, her very masculine approach to sitting down showing again. She plopped down and snatched a piece of bread from the table, almost biting into it before Alter spoke of her sword. She almost forgot. Mission pouted and placed the bread down in front of her before her gaze moved down to her side, she started unbuckle the sheath from her side and laid it on the table between them, just shy of hitting the plate of bread. Mission pulled the blade from it's sheath but not completely, showing a segment of the blade - the interesting part. Two runes sitting side-by-side next to the crossguard, she also gestured to the pommel.

"There are three runes on the blade, two there as you can see and one on the pommel. They're created with Fire Magic and each Rune does something unique, they can also be combined with each other in twos to do something as well yada yada, it's a fire sword called Serah."

She sort of got half-bored of explaining, and simplified it. Their drinks then arrived and were served to them, taking Mission's interest from the blade for a moment as she took the ale off the sprite and quickly brought the edge of the drink to her lips. The blade was created to be a Flame elemental weapon with various abilities that the user could utilise, the runes acted as a code of magic, capable of being combined together or used singularly. The rune on the pommel means "Huntress" and then ones at the base of the blade mean "Disgraced" & "Leader", the Northern Impline creators of the blade, insulting it's wielder. But this wasn't all they did for the blade, there was a presence about it - almost like the runes and the blade now itself was alive. Of course, Mission didn't know this - Serah contained a lot more than it offered, but it was a prison to contain something. It was also a permanent curse for an enemy.

"Seen much like this before?"

Mission tipped the alcohol into her mouth, she pulled a face that looked a bit like she didn't like it - but then her eyebrows raised and she nodded before sipping on it again. She took the bread into her other hand and begun munching on it.
 
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"AI!" Mircea sounded after Arbonath. He chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck with his free hand. "I'm going to make sure Bast isn't stirring things again. I think you may remember, but it was so long ago. He annoyed the wrong people, and then gave my dear sister trouble when he didn't take kindly to being healed." Mircea stood and placed the daggers in to his sash, stretching his arms above his head. However, before he could leave the campsite there was what looked like a disfigured form approaching them from the tents. He stared in confusion as it got closer, the hanging lamplight coming to show two familiar people. Correll, as short as he was, was half dragging Bast towards the campfire, Bast's arm slung over his shoulder and locked there in the blond's grip. It was an oddly amusing sight to see. Bast was trying to pull away from the blond, but Correll kept moving forward with a grumpy look on his face. He slung Bast on to the ground in front of the wood stumps.

"Damn bastard's got himself up." Correll spat with annoyance, "Tried to stick his head in my forge and bring some lass with him."

Mircea quickly moved to crouch down in front of Bast, moving him to lean against a stump. He clasped Bast's face with his hand, looking him over. Bast was mumbling incoherently, his pupils different sizes- one was abnormally large, the other a thin black slit. Mircea huffed and let go of his face, letting his head roll around a bit before Bast started slowly looking around.

"Whatever it is has made him weak." Mircea stated with disappointment, "and no- I don't think it's sugar."

"Why wouldn't you? He's acting like a lunatic."

"Trying to stick his head in your forge does sound crazy, but Bast can't ingest sugar. He tried it a long time ago and fell out into of jerking fit."

Correll scratched his head, the gloves he often wore during work still on his hands. He seemed to calm some, but was quick to push Bast back down when the man tried to stand. Mircea glanced at Arbonath and Foxy before returning to Correll, his hands on his hips.

"Who was the woman that was with him? Would you recognize her?"

"I don't know her, but I've seen her here before. She's a few inches taller than me, got really red hair, blue eyes, a scar on her arm that looks like a bird. Why?"

"Well, I think she may know what is wrong with him. Did he seem adamant about not letting her go?"

"Yea', he was holding her arm pretty tightly, took a few of us to get him to let go."

"Right...she didn't seem scared? Not even when he tried to put her in the forge?"

"She was scared alright, but not as much as any other person would be. Didn't start making a scene about it until I got him away from my forge."

"I see...I might have an idea, but I can't be sure about it without her. Will you guys help me look for her? I'll need to stay here, make sure he doesn't make more of a scene."

Correll nodded, confusion lingering on his features. He looked to Arbonath, "Do you think one of your birds can work here?"




"Ah.." Alter's voice trailed, his ears becoming uneven as well as his brows, one raised and the other sunk. The name of the runes were less than friendly, something uncommon among carvings. He looked away from them only for a moment to take a sip from his tankard. It was an ale tasting of blackberries and another ingredient he couldn't place, a sweet yet tart flavor. He put the drink down on the table, "these runes, they are implish. I recognize the carving techniques. I can't quite place where from...The metal is strange for a fire wielder, steel tends to melt after a certain point, but it doesn't look damaged beyond the norm." He was mostly babbling to himself in thought now. However, he quickly recovered, taking a piece of bread. "No, I haven't seen many like this. Serah is pretty unique, I can see why you are happy with it. Though, I admit a few things are off about it." He ate the bread after a moment and took more of his drink. "It looks like you had a feisty carver."
 
"I have a good mind throw him in the trough with the horses." Arbonath remained seated, but Foxy had gotten up towering over the others looking down at Bast. The Dwarf just shook his head and poked the fireplace with a stick before completely throwing it in.

"Always a hit with the... well anyone." Foxy giggled and nudged Mircea playfully before strolling away from Camp, "I'll go look around too, Arbie can use his toy."

Arbonath upon being asked about his bird nodded at Correll and stood up, reaching for the sack lying next to him as he rose. He took out the orb and threw it into the air where it delicately unfolded into it's bird like form. "Not as effective in the dark, but I think I will be able see a red head."

"Course you will!"

Foxy's distant comment had Arbonath raise his eyebrow, a sneer of confusion after the subtle accusation was made at him. He took out his goggles and stood beside Correll. "Right, if I spot her I'll direct you." He put on his gear and was blessed with the vision of his bird as it flew around the campsite. Arbonath just stood there looking through his goggles, unaware of his surroundings. He realised like this that he was quite vulnerable.

He had been scouting for a while now before he spotted what seemed to be someone similar to the description, he had the bird fly down to get a closer look at her, but there wasn't much he could make out. She was close to the forge however like she was leaving away from that direction, which was a good a suspicion as any.

"Think I got her Correll, northeast from the forge. Lets go check it out." Arbonath took off his goggles and lead Correll towards where he saw the woman.



Mission slouched in her seat as she drank more ale, she knew her sword's past and sharing it with this man was not something she was ready to do. The carvers probably weren't fiesty, more pissed off that he had been forced to make something for her in particular - and also that it was their final creation. She executed her tasks perfectly, but no prisoners were allowed to be kept and she knew this. She leaned against the table now, sitting forward taking another swig of her drink - her elbows rested against the surface.

"I was told the magic wouldn't damage the metal, I was curious about that too."

She chewed on her lip for a moment and scratched her head in thought, she was on the fence on how she wanted to tell this, "It was made by a couple Northern Impline, from before -- ya know. My Father was quite a famous warrior amongst most soldiers; he gave me that before he passed." She lied, but how she got it wasn't what was how the blade came to be - it's origin however, the truth and what he was interested in. Mission turned on her seat, getting the attention of the Sprite who served their drinks and asked for another, she asked for sweet this time and then turned her gaze on Alter.

"What do you want - the same?"
 
Correll waited for Arbonath, keeping Bast on the ground as he tried to get up again. When his dwarf companion said he'd seen her he moved to the small man's side and walked with him. Mircea sat on the stump and kept a hand on Bast's head, frowning. Correll thought the elf halfling probably didn't know he was still looking towards him. The blond turned away and followed Arbonath towards the smithies.

Once making it there, Correll looked around carefully for the redhead. At first, he couldn't see a sign of her amongst the small crowd, but there was a sudden movement. A flash of red as the woman started to run through the crowd, and Correll chased after her.

"Get back here!" He sounded angrily, "Move!" people moved out of his way after he yelled, a few lingering eyes showing expressions of annoyance. He was able to get to her sooner, grabbing her by the upper arm and tugging her backwards.

"You've got some explaining to do." He growled, annoyed by having to chase her. He pulled her along, his grasp tight around her arm. She did try a few times to pull away, but he kept dragging her.

Someone did try to stop him, which only ended in them getting yelled at as Correll continued on. It was somewhat of an amusing sight, since Correll was much shorter than the woman. A few people expressed this in passing chuckles. He brought her forward when they reached the campsite, holding her still.

Mircea stood to greet them, but he lacked a serious expression on his narrow features. No, the man only partly smiled. "That's no way to treat a lady."

"Some lady she is."

Mircea glanced at him over the woman's shoulder before returning to her. "Miss, sorry for how my friend has treated you, but it isn't without fault on your side. You've done something to our friend here."

"I didn't do anything.." the high elf woman said, her eyes flicking away as she lied.

"Don't try to lie to me, there's no need. I'm sure Bast did something to ask for this. Please, do explain."

The woman frowned as Mircea spoke, guilt hanging on her features. She stumbled over her words at first before her voice weakened. "Ah..uh..I-I gave him a potion.."

"Yes, but what kind of potion?"

"A uh..love... potion..." Her voice was small, her cheeks red as she looked towards the ground.

Mircea huffed, covering his eyes as the rolled. "Why would you do that? Don't you know they're only temporary, and they're not fully studied."

She shook her head, her voice still weak, "I don't know much about them... I was just upset...h-he didn't like me..."

"I can see why." Correll spat.

"Correll, let her go. Miss, did he say anything to you after he drank it?" Mircea asked, a hand on his hip. Correll let her go, but stayed behind the woman.

"H-he acted confused...then acted like the potion had worked...and then confused again...He said a lot of things..then he took me to the forge and tried to put us both in it like a lunatic..."

"He was trying to get out of it. An unreasonable way of doing so, but altering potions often take reason away for many. Do you realize how dangerous that is? Bast could've killed you, and don't think he'd feel sorry about it when he came to. You did do this to him." Micrea was holding back, it was obvious to Correll, who recognized the subtle anger in his voice. The woman looked at Bast, his head rolling only to stop on her. He scowled, causing her to step back in to Correll.

"I'll make sure you remain safe for now, but if you try this on anyone again, and I find out about it, I won't stop him from getting back at you. You can leave." Mircea was warning now, his tone more stern than before. The woman nodded slowly and Correll moved away from her, watching after her to make sure she left them.

Micrea huffed angrily, his hands running down his face, "the stupidity of some people."

"Love potions don't do that," Correll commented curiously, "even when they go badly."

"I know," Mircea turned to look at Bast, who was mumbling violence under his breath. "Bast can't consume altering potions with the usual effects. He gets, well...like this, and worse."

"Worse?" Correll asked, his thick brows raising, though his expression remained annoyed.

"Ai, worse. Don't worry about it. This will hopefully be over soon, the potion will leave his system." Mircea sat down on the stump again, patting Bast's head.

Correll nodded, not bothering to pry. Bast was a nuisance, but he didn't deserve a night like this. Well... Maybe he did. Correll thought to himself, shaking his head, "I'm going to close my forge up for tonight before anymore crazies try to jump in it."

He left them, grumbling to himself.


"Oh, I see, that does make sense. Northlings were unique Carver's." Alter said in response. Though he didn't know whether to fully believe her, It wasn't his business. He ate another piece of bread, his attention being caught by someone outside of the tent for a moment. It was what looked like a young man, angrily dragging a woman across the yard. His brows rose and then sank. again, it wasn't his business. His tail hit a barrel behind him, catching his attention before Mission asked if he wanted another drink. "Aye, I'll try sour this time."

The bard changed in song again, this one he did actually know. He hummed with it for a moment.

"You all are headed to the Elvish city?"
 
Arbonath tried to run after Correll, his little dwarf legs didn't do him any justice as he managed to catch up but that's only because Correll had gotten their target. He put his hands on his hips and nodded like he had totally helped grab her then. Though the dwarf did notice a bit of a stir with the locals, it probably didn't look good that they were chasing a woman. He raised his voice quite calmly and splayed out his hands to assure people,

"Aye alright, nothing to see here. Our lady friend just has something to answer for." The dwarf followed Correll back to camp, he caught his bird as it folded up into a ball and fell into his hands. He stuffed it back into his bag along with the goggles as Mircea dealt with their temporary guest.

Arbonath listened as the scolded the woman and she left, watching her behind leave. He turned his attention to Bast and then Correll who also left shortly after. The only level headed ones left were Mircea and himself, the Dwarf let out an amused exhale of air from his nose,

"Kids. If they canny get their own way then by god they'll find alternative directions. Love & Stuff, poor lady - if only she knew how much of a pain he can be, she might be glad this happened." The Dwarf looked at Bast, "No Offence. Someone will find her more interesting with a behind like that."

"You found her then?" Foxy returned to camp, she was jabbing at the Dwarf again. She knew they found her, she heard the commotion.

"Aye, She used a Love potion on 'im."

Foxy almost burst out a laugh, but her hand covered her mouth as she forced it to stop prematurely, "Sorry, shouldn't laugh. Someone could've died."

"Hol' on whatchu mean 'you found her then?' " the dwarf late realised what Foxy was insinuating once again.

"Oooh nothing Arbie." The woman rolled her eyes and walked over to Mircea, "You okay love?"



Mission ordered their drinks and glanced at the opening of the tent, she swear she recognised the causers of the commotion. She shook her head and turned back around to face her company, he was humming to the new piece of music the bard was playing, she flashed a grin at him as he did before he asked about the Elvish city. She finished her current drink, placing the tankard down in front of her before sort of fiddling with it,

"I suppose we are. I wasn't... uh... at first. It's a long damn way and my heart wasn't for all that. It's for the benefit of the boy, Blu - you're probably aware. Some weird things have been happening to me since i met him and it's just been hard to process - I'm sorry for snapping at you and your Impline girlfriend earlier. BUT I changed my mind and I got hurt and now I'm here after bein' stitched up and healed. You ever been to Yefadorei or is that too west for an easterling like you?"

Mission's tongue stuck out between her teeth for a moment as if teasing, though she was doing a bit of snooping for her own benefit now. Where he came from had interested her, the volcanic lands - there was a chance she'd have gone in that direction; though not into them. Most of her potential work environments were usually quite treacherous.
 
Mircea chuckled through his teeth, failing to stifle it when Arbonath commented on the woman's rear. His ear flicked when Bast groaned, resisting the urge to turn and look at him. Instead, Foxxy spoke to him, and he looked up at her for a moment. "I'll be fine, dear. Just wishing we could, for once, come here without it being an emergency or something annoying happening. I'm starting to think Lythrope will tire of us all."

Alter's face scrunched when Mission called Falma his girlfriend, nearly choking on his drink. He fixed himself and eyed her as she spoke, coming to give a lopsided grin. "I've been once, to visit the academy. It's...well, not like human cities. However, I earned a decent amount of coin there." He took another swig of his drink, his eyes squinting from the sour taste. "But, You are right, it is too far west for me. Overly extravagant, nothing like my home. Haven't been back since. Also, I took no offence to what you said. I know it could've been a possibility. I can't speak for Falma. Who- ah, is my niece, by the way. Brother's much older than I am." He leaned back in his seat for a moment and stretched his arms upwards, attempting to get the restless tingle from his bones. His shoulder's made a popping sound and he sighed, "Sorry about that, tend to get stiff if I don't do much. You ever been to my part of the east? Or near it, I mean. I don't see many humans who can take the heat of it."
 
"Never! Least we aren't boring. Get some rest, I can look after Bast tonight and if there are any issues I promise I'll let you know okay?" The woman gave him a warm smile, trying to be reassuring or at least helpful.

"Aye, think I'm gonna turn in and start up my stall in the mornin'. Goodnight you two... three?" Arbonath chuckled and walked to his Wagon to get some sleep.

"Good night Arbie." Foxy gave him a fluttered wave, he responded by casually throwing his hand up without looking.



Mission's face went from interested in Alter's experience with the western city to a guilty expression when he confirmed that he was actually related to Falma, though only her expression was guilty - she found it quite amusing really, and played in her favour. She mouthed the word "sorry" and then covered her face with the new drink she had been given just in case she showed some amusement to the "mixup". Alter asked her more questions, she was having fun drinking, watching her company get fidgety.

"I was planning on going near that way, the more dangerous a place the more work I get. I'm with this lot now and you're probably right - would've been too hot for me." Speaking of which, "Well, you wanna go for a walk? Much do out there at this time?"

Mission took her drink into her hand as she stood up from her seat, reassuring that she was fine with leaving. Though she'd probably take her drink with her if she was allowed.
 
Mircea smiled, "Thank you, Foxy. I'll try to rest as much as I can. If it does get too late before he comes to, will you take him to bed? Hopefully he'll rest instead of fighting it." He stood from the stump and gave Bast a stare, letting a disapproving huff escape. "Good night Arbonath, Good night Foxy. Thank you, again." It took him a moment to move some of the more expensive weapons back in to the caravan, but he eventually entered his own for the night. He plopped down on to the pillowed bed, his hand coming to run along the black chest next to it. A subconscious movement, as if making sure it was still there. It didn't take long for his eyes to close and his mind to drift in to sleep.


"Perfect timing, actually." Alter said, showing his cup to the Bartender as he stood to walk out. The little sprite nodded at them and Alter took that as an okay to leave the tent with it. He walked with Mission out, getting passed the chattering people before he spoke again, "They're about to begin the games for tonight. People get bored, so they come up with small competitions. Sometimes you even win a valuable prize." He pointed towards an area off from the tents where people had gathered, turning to face her as he walked, that lopsided grin on his face again. "There's one, probably something a little dangerous since they moved it. We should give it go." The vibrant yellow on his skin seemed to glow as they walked under darkness, reflecting on the brown hues of his skin. He didn't give her time to object, though he didn't see why she would. He swiftly turned back around and continued onward, quickening his pace in a challenge for her to follow.

Making it there, Alter could hear the distinct sound of blades being lodged into wood. He grabbed Mission's wrist and weaved them through the crowd to stand in front, letting go and hold his own hands together as he popped his knuckles one by one. A man stood a few feet away, aiming throwing knives at a lined pole centered off from them. Alter turned to the young man beside him, a stranger, but a happy one.

"It just start? What are the rules?"

"Yep, an' No magic. You have to try to hit the targets, and you get five knives." The man pointed towards a few poles, placed at various distances, "You get points based on which ones you hit an' where you hit them. If you hit them below that red paint line, you're out."

"Are there prizes this time?"

"Aye, one, Darkstone ore. May not sound fancy, but it's worth a lot of coin, an' makes for a right sturdy weapon if you can find a smith to use it."

"Alright, thank you." Alter nodded and turned his attention back to the man throwing knives. He watched in anticipation, waiting to see if he would make the mark on the last one. Alas, he failed. The knife hit the wood, but had lost momentum. It bounced from the pole and landed on the ground. People expressed their disappointment in groans. A woman came to stand in front of the poles as a few people gathered the knives.

"Well, it looks like the first three couldn't make the cut. We've got darkstone to give and boredom to kill, so give us a performance somebody! Now that more of you have joined us, who wants to test your skill?" The woman ended and a few people stepped forward to volunteer. Alter was one, though he was already at the front so he merely raised a hand until the woman saw it. He looked towards Mission with his brows raised and a smile on his face.
 
Foxy watched as Mircea retreated to bed, she looked back down at Bast and sad beside him waiting - looking up at the night. She'd give him a bit before dragging him off to bed. She still hadn't thought of what to get the new members of the caravan, maybe Esra would have a better idea.


"Games huh? I'll give it a go."

Mission actually really enjoyed the idea of some friendly competition. It was a chance for her to have fun and further take her mind off the serious things, plus it'll be a laugh. He moved quickly and she followed him, keeping an eye on his trail as he made it quite the more excitable roping her in suddenly. Mission was also slightly fixated on his glowing features, Alter's vibrant yellow glowed like embers in the dark - maybe all things Fire just attracted her. They stopped a moment before she was whisked away by the wrist through the crowd to get to the front.

Mission liked the sound of this. Knife throwing. She had lots of practice with this sort of thing, so knew she had a pretty decent shot of at least showing off. She watched the man before them play as the young man explained the rules to Alter, concentrating on both. The Prize was even more incentive, if she managed to get that Darkstone ore she'd have done at least something for the Caravan - a decent weapon could be made out of it or a few bits of coin'd work out too.

"Tough Luck." she called out as the man missed his mark. Mission watched as Alter volunteered, grinning at her she returned the grin - a competitive look on her face. "I'm gonna get that Darkstone Ore. I'm playin too" She stepped forward too, holding her hand up and the other out as she waited to be given her set of knives. When she was, she spun one in her other hand pretty skilfully whilst holding the others. Mission taunted,"So, Carver - you can work on weapons but can you work with em? Think you'll handle me?"
 
Correll returned to the campsite once he finished closing up his forge. He scratched his head and sat down with a huff, ignoring Bast's mumbling. "Ay, Foxy."



"Oh, I can handle you," Alter spoke with some confidence, the competitive air getting the better of him. "it's your throwing skills I'm worried about." He still smiled, but turned his gaze to the next person to begin the round before finishing off his drink and placing the tankard on the ground. The person leveled themselves with the starting line and began throwing the knives. Alter's tail flicked at the air behind him as he watched- they were keen on giving a performance alright. The woman gave dance-like movements to sling the knives, though Alter felt the way she did it took away from her throws. He wasn't wrong, while she had hit every pole, every knife was low or barely passable. The person after her was a man who hit quite high, but failed on the farthest pole and gave the crowd a stir. The third was a man who hit them all at the mid-way points, passing. Alter was next on the list. He decided to mix up the game by changing techniques- something the others hadn't done. Instead of making it spin towards its target, he used his index finger to guide and propel it forward, hitting the farthest one first. It lodged in to the higher section of the midway point, just below the top section. He stifled a huff and steadied the second knife, finding the balance point. This time he threw it using his fingers on the flat of its blade, again avoiding spinning the knife. His body twisted with the movement and it slung in to the wood, hitting the high point on the second farthest. He did try to give some performance, but he was more focused on trying to hit the poles. His turn ended with a hard pass, though it wasn't as perfect as he hoped- two middles and three highs. He nodded when a few people clapped, walking out of the way and back to where he once stood with Mission, picking up the Tankard. "There I go, time to see you shine." Alter joked, an amused smile on his face.
 
Foxy's gaze retreated down as she was joined by Correll, she greet him with a welcoming smile. She was happy to see and speak to anyone she knew, her smile was as bright as it was for anyone who greeted her seemingly taking no favourites. She spoke up over Bast's mumbling.

"Evening Correll! how were things at the forge today? Well... except for this one's shenanigans." She gestured at Bast with a flick of her head.



His return of confidence fuelled the Soldier's fire, it was great, it was fun. It kept her busy and she liked that he was just as raring to dish out a challenge. She watched the other contenders take their turns, continuing to spin the knife in her hand thinking of a game plan for when she got up there - she studied their movements and how the wind effected everyone's performances. She had the time, so she used it. It was Alter's turn and his form was good, which was worrying - he wasn't just all talk after all. He scored well and was currently leading - he was the one to beat. She placed the knives down next to her ale to give him a clap as he returned by her side.

"Not bad." She took the knives into her hand as he spoke, fanning them out in her left hand - she held a single one in her right between her thumb and index finger. Her response to him was sarcastic and overly acted, resting the fan of knives against her bust as she fluttered her eyes "Like the divines."

She walked up and took her spot, turning so that her right side; her throwing side faced the direction of the poles. She took a breath and her posture straightened. The wind blew at her hair in the suspense, that was enough for her. She raised her right hand above her head and looked, using Alter's tactic to get the furthest first - the knife was parallel with her body and then she swiped it downwards - releasing it just at the point of her forehead and the knife flew. Her hand followed through, crossing over her body and meeting the fan of knifes in her other hand - she took a crouched more huddled stance as she pivoted. Before the first knife even hit it's mark she had begun to throw the others one after another, turning on her hip to straighten her hunter's gaze on each pole & lined up precisely with each throw. One loud 'thunk' was followed by 3 quicker ones as they hit their targets. Mission paused on her last knife, spinning on her foot she nonchalantly threw it as an underarm toss with her weak hand - hitting the nearest target with it as she had left it for last. She continued to spin round after throwing it, not even looking at her target confident in her aim she spotted the Impline in the crowd; flashing him a wink as her head rolled back and her leg kicked up behind her, finishing with a click of her left hand - she knew she was being flash and extremely cocky. All highs.

"Oooh I'm underpaid."

She strolled back to him with an applause and some whistles, patting the Impline's chest with one hand she reached passed him with the other and took her drink. Pulling it passed him, "Like the Divines." She tipped the rest of the ale into her mouth, "that was fun!"
 
"I got a few things done, had to scrap most of it though. I just can't seem to keep the metal even.." Correll said, slightly complaining about his own shortcomings. He pulled the gloves from his hands and stuffed them into his belt, letting his fingers find some freedom. His hands were sore already, probably from being idle for so long. "How's your night been, Foxy?"


Alter gave her a whistle when he caught her wink, coming to clap when she finished her flashy performance. He was truly impressed, though he had little doubt about her skill to begin with. A small chuckle escaped him when she approached, her hand coming to pat his chest. Mission moved, coming quite close to him for a drink. "Ai," His tail gave a slow sway and he smiled that lopsided curve when he realized he was staring. "Alronae would be jealous." His attention was pulled towards the competition when the spokesperson sounded again, his hand coming to clasp the back of his neck as if in comfort. A futile attempt to focus.

"I'd like to see someone follow that!" The woman said in a hearty voice, "I think it's obvious who the winner is, yeah?! Miss, the darkstones all yours! You'll find it at the smithy's block in the morning- Dorrick'll set you up nice! Those of you who wish to stay and continue playing, feel free to, but we're not givin' any more rewards so you'll have to place bets." At that moment many people left the small crowd, though a few stayed and started to practice their throws. Alter shifted on his feet, returning his gaze to mission as if he hadn't been glancing at her. "What do want to do next?" He asked as he started to lead the way out, "They will probably hold a different game soon. There's also the night party- Or, I could just show you around the perimeter. I doubt that Mircea fellow had time to show you." He looked at his empty tankard and shook it, "Should probably take these back before anything."

Alter went ahead and led them back to the make-shift bar, placing his empty cup down on to it and handing the sprite some coin for the drinks. He stretched again once outside, the party had already started. Made evident by the upbeat music and people dancing. He looked towards Mission, waiting to see what she wanted to do.
 
Foxy scooted over to Correll as he talked, though she still listened to his complaints - and she could see how it'd be frustrating for him to want to make his metal perfect. She put her arm around his shoulder and pulled him against her, smiling down at the boy as she spoke,

"Pretty uneventful, though if I thought you needed to morale boost I should've come see you work! You'll be one of the best smiths of the land - you're still young remember with a lot to learn. If you want me to come along tomorrow, I'll spend the day with you!"


Mission blinked a few times as Alter's attention was pulled away from her, she felt her cheeks become hotter. She hadn't blushed through the night, but his compliment towards her warranted it. She buried her face into her tankard even though it was empty and faced the spokesperson herself. Mission's demeanour managed to calm as she was declared the winner of the prize, she beamed a massive grin and pumped her fist into the air, letting out a celebratory "woo". He left it up to her to take them through the rest of the night, she was given a few options and had to think on it. He gave her time as they went to return the tankards to the sprite. She observed around her as the night began to pick up, though she didn't feel like exerting much more of her energy on the party - maybe they could save it for another time as she probably had more nights to spend here. Plus Mission had fun and cramming all the juicy stuff into one day might spoil the rest, however she had an idea - an itch that had pushed it's way to the front of her mind;

"Hmm, how about you invite me back to your tent?" Her thoughtful gaze shifted up, her eyes fixed on his face. "That is unless you want to go dance?"
 
Correll attempted to struggle against it at first, but stopped with quiet grumbling. He nodded his head to Foxy, "Thanks, Foxy." He took what she said with a grain of salt, though he was grateful for her caring enough to say it. "I wouldn't mind that." Bast groaned, a clearer groan compared to the weirdly pitched ones before. The blond reached his foot out and nudged that man's arm, his foot being push away weakly. "It really is wearing off, huh. I think I'll head to bed now, before he starts again." Correll gestured to Bast before patting Foxy on the shoulder, "Get some rest soon. Tomorrow will be slow."


What Mission suggested took Alter by surprise, mostly by how forthright she was being. If he still had a drink he would've choked on it. Most women danced around the subject, so it was also refreshing in a strange way, giving his tail another slow sway. "I hope you don't mind warmth," His brows rose slightly for a moment and he smiled, coming to hang an arm on her shoulders and lead her to his tent.


-------------------------- Time Skip


Mircea was falling. He could see it, feel the wind on his face, but there was no ground he could see, only the sky and the passing clouds. He looked around frantically to try and find something to grab on to, but there was nothing to be found. It wasn't but a second before the ground became visible and he stopped, before continuing to fall again. The elf jolted awake before he hit the ground, his eyes immediately catching Bast crouched at his bedside, blowing air at him from an extremely short distance. Bast chuckled and dodged as Mircea swung a hand at him, coming to stand near the back of the caravan, "Morning! I got food for everyone, come eat before I take your share." Mircea watched him leave and groaned from his bed, rubbing the side of his face. He couldn't hear Blu so he assumed the boy was still sleeping, maybe he could get a few things done before he wakes.

He got up and changed his clothing, also coming to simply pull his hair back from his face entirely with a leather band. It was a few minutes before he left the caravan and met with Bast and Mal at the campsite. Bast had really gotten food for everyone, bread, meat, and stew that was being kept warm with embers. Mal was already eating when Mircea arrived.

"Did you get any rest, you two?"

Mal cleared his throat, "I'm fine, Mircea." Bast didn't answer, taking a wooden bowl from the shelf and pouring some of the stew in to it. He had a relaxed smile on his face that worried Mircea some.

"Bast, how are you feeling today? You gave people a stir last night." Mircea asked just as Bast handed him the bowl, a spoon, and some bread.

Bast didn't seem to acknowledge his words at first, stirring the stew for a moment before finally answering, his voice holding somewhat of a higher tone. "Don't I always?"

"Yes, you do." Mircea sat down on one of the stumps. Bast shrugged.

"My head hurts, that's all I know."

"I find that hard to believe. You, Bast, can't remember a few hours because of a love potion?"

"I don't care to remember."

Mal reached a hand towards Mircea in a motion to stop, noticing Bast's annoyed expression as he turned away from the elf. Mal didn't feel like dealing with the two fighting today.

Mircea huffed and resisted his urges. Bast was obviously not in a good mood, but was trying to be, even if it was just to keep too many questions off of him. He sat down and started to eat, meeting the morning.
 
Foxy had taken Bast back to bed and then got some herself, she fell slept well dreaming about the possibilities the next day would bring. She woke up, her eyes fluttering open as she saw the side of the inside of the wagon as she usually did, sitting up she stretched her arms up and let out a yawn. Foxy got changed into her usual attire and slipped out of the Wagon, noticing most of the crew were awake she beamed a smile at all of them.

"Good Morning lovelies, oooh! That smells good!"

She strolled over to the stew and took a sniff, grabbing a bowl and pouring herself some before grabbing a piece of bread - she spun around almost bumping into Arbonath who had, as quietly as that lazily strolled up behind her rubbing his face.

"Oh! Careful Arbie."

"Oh Good morning Foxy, thought I was still dreaming all I saw was a bottom."

Foxy's eye almost twitched, she didn't respond to him and strolled over to a stool - taking a seat beside Mal. It was funny the two sitting together probably would've looked like two ordinarily sized people enjoying some food; but no they were surrounded by tiny figures. Arbonath shrugged and grabbed his stew, spilling some of it on his finger as he poured it he quickly stuck his mouth on it and hissed at the heat.

"We're a few people down for breakfast, eh? I can understand Correl but Mission is usually one of the first up." Arbonath was as observant as ever as he took a seat with his fellow brethren, shovelling food into his gob. Stew haphazardly spilled into the whiskers of his beard.

"Ludo's gone. Might already be out, though doing what I have no clue." Foxy added her two silvers.



It was the same dream she'd been having since she was poisoned and brought close to death, and it always woke her up at the same point - that laugh. Though Mission would always humour the dream, always curious enough to try and find out what came next. It was kind of frustrating. The small amount of barren houses on a plane that ended, a void of a sky and the only activity being a humble cottage. The inside of it was nothing but humble however, glorious pillars of red stone stretched high into the air way too tall and torch-like flames lit each one up with dancing colours the room was much bigger than the house it resided in somehow . In solitude at the centre of the room was always that throne; facing away from the door - the nimble fingers melodically tapping at the armrest. Mission approached her, a giggle echoed in the large room and Mission expected to wake up. She didn't. Approaching the chair, she got closer - seeing the forearm of the figure was as red as the room, not human that's for sure. She tried to moved around the chair, with a bit of distance in case something happened. But before it could be revealed who was sitting there she felt something on her back and she froze - a sharp sensation ran up her bare spine even though in the dream she was wearing clothes. A Voice, similar to the giggle rang in her ear.

"Naughty Mission~"

She lunged up from her sleep, now sitting up in another person's bed - her hand gripping tightly around her dagger. She calmed down realising she was out of the dream and placed the dagger beside her. Mission looked around, spotting Alter doing something with his tools. Her hands felt sore suddenly, then she remembered the night before and what she was holding on to.

"Good Morning Alter~"

Mission reached for her borrowed top and slipped it on, it was baggy and managed to just about about cover... the important parts. She stood up and walked over to the Impline, wrapping her arms around him - biting his neck as he prepped his tools.

"Ya know, we don't have to rush back to the Caravan?"

A bray of opposition originated from the entrance of the tent as a horse's snout peaked in through the parting. The poor steed had been following them all night and rested outside for the night - or well tried to, if the horse could speak it'd have a few things to say to it's owner. The horse's head fully poked into the tent now, somehow the horse looked unamused. Mission tilted her head at him,

"Ludo!"
 
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"Morning Foxy, Morning Arbonath," Mircea sounded to his companions, his attitude more upbeat than before. He felt a bit better after getting some food in his stomach. He listened to the two talk, Mal giving a few grunts in greeting before leaving the campsite to check on Blu. Mircea couldn't help but wonder for a moment, if Mal had grown a small liking to the boy. He's terrible with children from what Mircea knew.

"Ah, did they not return before you fell asleep?"

"No," Bast chimed in to the conversation, "Wasn't there earlier either."

Mircea couldn't help but feel like Bast was suggesting something, but he kept his nose from it this time. His silk-haired friend had also given away that he did in fact remember at least some of last night. "Well, I'm sure she can handle herself here."

"Esra is buying food for Silte." Bast informed them, seeing as no one had mentioned her absence.

"That's no surprise, she didn't even leave the caravan last night she was so tired."



"Morning Mission," Alter responded with a smile, glancing at her through the busy inspection of his tools. He had to check them every morning, as chipping was common with carving and better found sooner than later. A low, growl-like sound emitted from his chest when Mission moved on him, his tail coming to pat the ground once. He didn't know if she was trying to pull him from his focus, but she had succeeded and he leaned back on to his hands with an amused grin, looking her over. However, before he could respond to her suggestion a horse had stuck it's head in to his tent as if to object the notion. Ludo, as she called him. He didn't recognize the horse at first, but it was the same one he saw her with last night. Alter turned to lean on one hand, a slight pout on his face, "Perhaps he's hungry?"
 
Foxy pouted as Esra was mentioned, she wanted to spend some time with the Sprite as well as watch over Correll as he worked on some metal. She had the opportunity to spend time with Esra as Correll was sleeping and probably would work more later; Though there had to be someone watching the caravan and they hadn't decided on that... yet.

Arbonath let out a sigh as he had finished gobbling his food, he swiped a palm across his beard - cleaning it of any bits that may have gotten stuck. "Right! You guys can run about doing whatever you like - I'll be flogging some of my toys today so I'll be here watching the Caravan."

Foxy grinned and quickly stood up, "Alright Arbie! I'm going to find Esra. I'll be back later." The tall woman placed her bowl back and handed Arbonath her left over bread, strolling away from camp to find her friend.



"Hungry?" Mission shuffled around Alter, her leg lifting over him as she straddled the Impline in his new position. She pressed her chest against his and pecked him on the lips. She let out a soft sigh, a grin forming at the edge of her mouth as her pupils glances at the horse as she teased, "So am I, he can wait~"

A flurry of horsey noises erupted from the entrance of the tent as Ludo got clearly irritated and almost hostile, his front legs began to poke through, hooves stomping against the floor as he almost forced his way into the Tent. Mission quickly stood up off of Alter and ran over to Ludo, raising her voice slightlyy with a hint of laughter weaved in it,

"Okay okay Ludo No! Out, get out!" She pressed her hand against his snoot and he backed up obeying his owner. The horse retreated out of the tent and Mission's face poked out from between the flaps of the entrance. Her face was bordered by the tent curtains whilst the rest of her was inside and covered from the outside. She glanced around and then flashed a faux serious face at her horse.

"I'll be out in a moment, let me get ready." She stuck her tongue out at the horse. Not realising the view she was giving Alter on the other-side.
 
Mircea gave his empty bowl to Bast as the male went around collecting the empty ones. He glanced towards the caravans, giving Foxy a short wave as she parted to go find Esra. He stood and stretched, trying to wake up more.

Bast piled all of the bowls on one of the stumps before heading towards the caravans, ignoring Mircea's questioning expression. He entered the middle caravan, only emerging from it again after a few minutes. He had Blu latched on to his back, carrying the boy towards the campsite. Blu yawned over his shoulder, waving sleepily at Mal stood at the door with an annoyed expression. "boy isn't even awake yet."

"You need to eat, tyke," Bast said, ignoring Mal. He put him down on a stump and held him there by his head until the boy managed his balance. He then grabbed a clean bowl and filled it with stew, some dried meat, and bread and handed it to Blu. Blu clasped on to it, but he didn't start eating it immediately, his eyes adjusting to the morning light. He yawned again, his tail slowly moving. Bast sat near him, propping his head on to palm and watching Blu intently.

Mircea's head cocked to the side, his brows lifting. He stayed like this for a moment until Mal tapped his shoulder. The man was surprisingly quiet for his size.

"I don't think that potion has worn off fully," Mal spoke quietly with a bewildered tone. "Have you noticed? He hasn't been as annoying this morning."

"You..." Mircea paused, glancing at Bast who was still watching Blu as the boy started to eat, then back to Mal, "You might be right..Then again...it is Bast."

"Aye." Mal grumbled, though he still joked "We should make him drink more potions."

Mircea snorted, shaking his head and rubbing his boot against the ground. "That'd be something." He then walked off, moving further in to the encampment. He watched the area around him as he sauntered onward, blinking a few times when he noticed a horse's rear sticking out of a tent. His lips parted, as if he was going to was what was going on, but it wasn't really his business. Instead, he kept going, on his way to check on what would be traded that day.

Esra was buying freshly caught fish for silte when she noticed the humongous height of a companion. "Foxy!" She waved energetically towards her friend, taking her wrapped fish with her to her friend. "Good morning!"



Alter watched her for a moment before sitting back up straight and hiding a slightly frustrated pout, scratching the side of his head. He started to finish putting his tools back in to their correct compartments, organizing it for work. He huffed when he was finished and rolled the tool set up, glancing back to Mission. His stomach rolled and he patted it. "Guess Ludo's not the only one."
 
Mission huffed and turned her head around, looking at the Impline. Guess she wouldn't be getting another round in. She shrugged and brought herself back into the tent, scanning the room for what possessions of hers that she could find that had been slung around. She gathered all her belongings up, remembering how they got there with a smirk on her face.

"Hmm, they usually whip up something at the Caravan." Mission slipped on her clothes, clasping the buckles around her waist and stomach - she picked up her sheathed sword and equipped it upon her person; same with the Dagger that she had left loose on the floor after waking up suddenly. She tightened her leathers and adjusted her top which was tucked into them. Mission was actually pretty excited to get her prize, she had an idea and with her current mood she was buzzing to get it done, "I'm not too hungry and I've got some things I need to do, so I'll meet you back there." She swiftly exited the tent and quickly jumped up onto Ludo in one swift motion. Truthfully, Mission kind of realised that if she did return to the Caravan after being missing all night with Alter; they may be quick to think and tease her. Not that they'd be wrong, she had thoroughly enjoyed the Impline's company.

She trotted off towards the Blacksmith to receive the prize she had won the night before. It didn't take her long, even though she only went at a slow pace on horseback. She slipped off Ludo and knocked on the door and entered. "Hello? I won the Knife throwing last night, I was hoping I could ask something of you?"



"Don't think Foxy would appreciate babysitting him every night." Arbonath chuckled and watched the tired Blu for a moment, though he did snap out of his little stare. It was time for him to get his stall ready, it was early but a lot of buyers like to look for the unique items in the early hours of the day. And he definitely had stuff like that... hopefully.

He walked back and forth from the Caravan, bringing items to a table he had already set up the day before when they arrived. He lay out a cloth along the wood and then a few painted signs on it's surface - one big one at the front. It was a crude stall, but he wasn't too fussed as long as his merchandise got the attention of people who walked by. He dragged a couple of sacks, their contents contained clear signs of metal as they clanked together. He lay them out, keeping stock in the sacks whilst putting examples on the table. His servant bots, the scampera - little walkers that carry around glasses and other items, they can also pick things up - an amusing gadget and simple servants for lazy people. Arbonath threw a group of golf-ball sized objects into the air and they opened up, flying around his table. Each one had a different coloured light on it and fluttered - looking like hummingbirds except they were his "for sale" ones. His attack hummingbirds were too dangerous to sell in his opinion. These were portable lights, and hands-free, also cute companions.

Arbonath had other things to sell too, but they were more one of a kind unique items and he only really brought them up to certain buyers who are interested in those sort of things. He usually had an eye for them when they strolled by. His little birds fluttered around, patrolling the perimeter of his stall. One of his birds sat on Blu's shoulder, though that was Arbonath's doing, just to entertain the kid - which was in his eyes a good way to advertise. The dwarf sat on a stool, looking into their camp with a grin as he waited for his customers.



Foxy waved excitedly back at Esra upon seeing her purchasing some fresh fishies for the Lither. "Good Morning Esra! Decided spend some time with ya, also I've honestly been racking my brain to think of something to get our two new members. Like a welcoming gift or something and I'm really struggling." Foxy made a little pout at her sprite friend, taking a moment for her to process what she just said before looking at the wrapped fish, "Well your shopping comes first of course, I can help ya carry anything." Foxy had been quite restless, getting overly excited as she usually did.
 
"See ya' there," Alter gave a short wave before stretching and standing. He gathered his things and closed the tent off when he left. It didn't take him long to make it to the caravans, though he moved with little energy. Upon making it to the caravans he was met by a human who quickly stood and moved about to meet him at the edge of the fire. Alter couldn't help but think of a cat when watching him.

"Who are you?" The silk-haired man asked, though a strange mischief enveloped his expression when the human snorted.

"Alter..."Alter stood confused for a moment, but it was somewhat relieved when Mal chimed in.

"Don't mind 'em, he's got a potion wearing off. I'll get the weapons out for you." Mal then moved to the caravans and Alter cautiously walked passed the human. "Bast, behave yourself." Mal called out, and Bast shifted on his toes as if in playful guilt before following Alter and offering him a bowl of stew.

The impline nodded and took it as it was offered. He wasn't sure if he actually wanted to eat anything this Bast person was giving him, but his stomach wouldn't take no for an answer. He made quick work of it, since he wouldn't have long to eat to begin with. It was a day of work for him, as most of his days here had been. Though, he didn't mind it today, last night was something that left him feeling refreshed in a way.

"Good morning, Alter," Blu mumbled to him from his stump, his empty bowl nearly falling from his lap. Bast was quick to catch it and pat the boy's head.

"Morning, Blu."

A moment later and Mal emerged with the weapons and sat them next to Alter neatly. "Here you go. Looks like you have a full days' work."

"Aye, I do," Alter responded happily before adjusting his position and getting the tools out and ready to be used. Mal moved to lean against one of the caravans and watch over them. Though, Alter only got a few minutes of quiet chiseling before a voice broke it.

"You were here last night? I've never seen you before." Bast's prodding was only met with silence at first, until another voice joined in, and then another. A short human with blond hair exited the caravan, and a familiar impline face came around from the tents.

"Ey Bast, you done getting yourself up?" Correll gave an aggressive jab at Bast, sleep lingering in his voice and they slowness of his walk. He moved to make himself a bowl of stew, ignoring Bast's glare and sitting down to eat. He didn't seem to notice Alter's presence at all until Falma gave a greeting from behind the boy that shook him to spill some of his stew.

"Geeze, woman, what's your problem?!" Correll grumbled and looked over his shoulder at the impline, his green eyes widening at the sight of her.

"Oh, did I startle you?" Falma asked sincerely, leaning down to check his hand. Correll quickly moved away from her, spilling the stew entirely on himself. He gave a pained growl from the hot liquid and angrily tossed the bowl in Bast's direction. Bast hit it down, and Falma stood upright with slight confusion on her face.

"Are you scared of me?" Falma asked, a small smile forming on her face.

Correll's scowl turned into grimace as he tried to lie. "I'm not scared of nothin--!" However, he was cut off when Falma suddenly hugged him excitedly, ignoring his squirming.

"This little cutie! I could just eat him up! and he's not scared of us! You hear that, Alter?!" Falma loosened just enough that the blond could see her uncle, Alter, who was staring at the two with an annoyed expression.

"Hey!" Bast yelled to catch their attention, allowing Correll a moment to free himself. He fell from the impline's grasp and darted back to the caravan, slamming the door shut behind him.

"That was mean," Blu scolded, glaring at the giggling Falma. His gaze fell to the ground as he mumbled, "Don't touch him again." He could feel Bast ruffling his hair, and the stares he was getting from the others.

"Hmmmmm," Falma crossed her arms, "fine, I wont."

Alter went back to carving. "How old are you again, Blu?"

"I don't know. Maybe 13?" Blu glanced at Bast as if to confirm, but all Bast could do was shrug.

The carver sighed and his tail flicked at the grass, "You know, he will be reaching that age soon."

"What age?" Mal asked from a distance.

"Implines, we..after we reach a certain age...," he trailed somewhat, "we go through a change that is similar to you humans. Only, ours is a bit...er, extreme. Especially males."

"Ugh, I remember yours. No one was allowed to do anything without you knowing, always fighting, if someone looked at you funny you'd blow up- you had to be the center of attention, too. He was a nutjob, I swear."

"At least I didn't obsess over every guy who dared look at me."

"You say that, but I seem to remember a certain-"

"Stop!" Alter called, a halt of embarrassment, "Anyways, we can get very aggressive and...possessive..among other things.."

"Oh, I see," Mal chuckled, "We're in for a tough journey, then."

"I'm going to be like that?" Blu asked, fiddling with his vest.

"Yes, undoubtedly, but you will be it in your own way.." Falma huffed.

"For example, There were times when I thought I was protecting my family, when really I was simply- well, paranoid I suppose, and caused them some trouble. And Falma here genuinely thought that she loved complete strangers, when she didn't."

Falma sighed, "Ah, that's true."

"You'll make it through it, eventually. The instincts will never leave, but they aren't nearly as strong as they are during the change."


Dorrick rubbed his beard and opened the door to the smithy, his eyes squinting at the light. "Come in, I'll have yer prize out in a moment- caught me mid breakfast. What else ya' be needing?"



Esra giggled and nodded. "Alrighty, I only need some crystal dust for now. We can try to find them something while we look for that, okay?"
 
Mission nodded at Dorrick as he responded to her, she looked around for a couple of items and walked over to a piece of charcoal picking it up and also a bit of parchment. Bringing them over to a surface near Dorrick she spoke again, "Weeelllll I wasn't going to take my prize right this moment, I was hoping that you'd smith something for me from it? I have the coin and the idea."

As she spoke she had begun to sketch out her idea on the parchment, the blade she had in her mind - it wasn't too small nor too big, a balanced but thin blade - strong, it's reaching thrust would make it a speedy killer. An ornate handle with a Northern Impline symbol carving at the pommel, hopefully the Dwarf wouldn't mind or recognise it too much. She wasn't the best artist, but she had drawn a clear idea of what she wanted. (I'm gonna sketch it). She spins the parchment around when she's done so that Dorrick can look and shrugs her shoulders,

"I'm sure you can fill in the blanks and details?"



Foxy claps her hands once together and grins, "Sounds like a plan, Crystal Dust it is - need to be stocked up on that." The big woman would follow Esra as she shopped and if needed, would carry anything without problem.
 
Dorrick nodded and waddled to the counter. He raised himself on to the stool with a grunt, watching her draw on the parchment. His thick brows rose and fell in thought as he peered at the coal sketch. A coarse grumble emitted from his throat, a hand scratching his chin. "I can't work with darkstone myself, but I know someone who does. It will take time. Darkstone is a stubborn ore, don't know none here who can smelt it properly, but the smith who can will be around in a few days time. Works on a schedule, that one."


Esra moved to one of the stalls and inquired about where crystal dust may be sold, nodding her head when receiving an answer and scurried on her feet towards the stall on the end and asked for two bags of clear crystal dust. "Foxy, will you carry these?" Esra asked as she placed a few coins on the stall above her. She fiddled with the cold pouch of fish in her hand, looking over the stalls.

"Hmm, Should we start with Mission? I don't know her well, but...She seems to like weapons. Maybe we can find something at the smithy? Oh, or you can get her an enchantment. And a gift for Blu...I think he would be the easier one, and I have an idea for what he might want. He's been really interested in the books he brought with him, so maybe a book? Oh! Or a journal!--Wait, can he write?"


Blu's nose scrunched. He knew it was important information about himself, but he didn't fully understand it, and worry was tugging his attention towards the caravans. Correll hadn't come back out yet.

"It'll be fine. It's perfectly natural, and it cools off after the beginning." Falma said, though she wasn't paying attention to Blu who was headed towards the caravans.

Bast watched the impline slowly enter the caravan Correll had, his sharp eyes moving away from the boy with a sense of awareness he hadn't shown yet that morning. "So, you're from the east, right? I'm seeing more and more eastern implines these days."

Alter huffed.

"-Not that it is a bad thing." Bast glanced at Falma who was still staring at the dying fire, then to Mal who looked to be dozing off where he sat. His eyes rolled and he looked at his fingernails. "Why is it that you already don't like me?" It was a question obviously pointed towards Alter.

The impline shrugged, "You're weird, and you smell weird."

"Agh, give a man a break, I can't help the effects of a potion," Bast responded with some bitter amusement,"Besides, you also smell weird. Weirdly familiar, I mean. Well, maybe that's not your scent."

Alter froze and turned to look at Bast with confused annoyance, "And how would a human know?"

"Human, yes," Bast placed a finger on the side of his nose with a small smile,"With an excellent sense of smell."

The carver turned his gaze to Mal who was now looking at the two sleepily, "is he always like this?"

"More or less." Mal grumbled.


Blu entered the caravan with quiet steps, his eyes focused on the blond who was huddled up on his cot holding his head. "Correll?" the boy whispered, his ears falling with worry.

"Go away," Correll spoke with aggression in his voice, though his current position showed something more frail to the eyes watching him.

"Are you okay?"

"Do I look okay?"

"Right," Blu's tail flicked at the wall behind him, and Correll flinched at the sound. He made his way closer to the blond, though he got lower with each step until he was sitting close to the cot below Correll. "Did she hurt you?"

"No," Correll growled, tightening his grip around his head.

Blu's eyes wandered in thought, "Correll, are you scared of them?" He was answered with silence. "Are you scared of me?"

Correll chuckled something weak, his head shaking between his arms, "No, Blu, you don't scare me.."

"But, what about when I get bigger? Will you be scared of me then?"

The blond was quiet for a moment, but he spoke before Blu could ask another question, "Do you want me to be scared of you?"

"No, not at all. It's opposite, I want to be friends with Correll even when I'm big."

"That's so selfish," Correll chuckled as he spoke, looking up from his scarred arms. "Blu, I can't promise that I wont be afraid of you."

"But, why?"

Correll huffed and flopped on to his back. "Do you really want to know?" When Blu nodded his head in response, Correll pointed to the burn scar on the right side of his chest.

"An impline did this?" Blu asked, his brows furrowing.

"Aye, one did," Correll said, looking at the wall away from Blu, "also got me on the arm, and on this side." He pointed to the two long scars on the left side of his chest that Blu could just barely see.

"I don't understand," Blu said, "These scars are different."

"That's because one is a burn," Correll grumbled.

"Oh, right..." Blu quieted. He knew one was a burn scar, but he didn't understand why he had both burns and normal scars. His eyes peeked up at the scars again, a hand coming to slowly touch the burn scar out of curiosity. It was surprisingly soft despite it's warped appearance. However, this was short lived before Correll swatted his hand away.

"Don't touch it," He scowled.

"Sorry, I got curious." The impline could tell Correll was still scared, his hand shaking even if he was acting calm.

"It's fine," Correll huffed and turned on his side to face Blu.

"You can't stay in here all day. Mircea told me you work, right? Will you be okay with them around?"

"Yeah, I just.." The blond's green eyes flicked towards the door, "Need distance. I can't deal with them touching me."

"They wont!" Blu said with a confidence that made Correl's scowl turn to confusion before he huffed again.

"Fine," Correll groaned, "Just give me some time." He couldn't tell if Blu had talked to them, or if the boy planned on following him around all day. Either way, while the sentiment was appreciated, he didn't quite like the idea of it.

"Okay, I'll go tell Bast that he should help keep them at a distance if anything happens."

"Tell Mal, not Bast, the damn pest," Correll propped his head up with his elbow, "He'd probably try to make a game of it."

"Hmmm," Blu's ears turned in thought, "I don't think he would. He did help you get away from her."

Correll's brows furrowed, "Doesn't matter, he's quick to change, and he'd probably not be able to stop them anyways."

"Maybe that's true," Blu stood and stretched his arms towards the sky, "But, I always get a strange feeling from him. There's no doubt Mal would probably be able to stop them- he looks very strong."

"He is." Correll said, as if he was proud of it, "Strongest man I know, and Foxy would be the strongest woman I know, probably stronger than Mal!"

"She's so tall..." Blu looked as if he was imagining her height, "Why is she so tall?"

"That's just how she was made, kid. Don't go asking more rude questions."

Blu scratched the back of his neck, and started to walk out of the caravan, "I'll tell Mal, then. I hope you feel better soon." Correll responded with a short wave goodbye. He could hear the blond talking to himself when he slid the door closed, but chose to ignore it and focus on telling Mal before it slipped his mind. It was a short walk, and when he made it to the campsite he whispered to Mal about keeping the other implines at a distance from Correll. Mal only gave a half smile and nodded. Morning was almost over now it seemed, though he wasn't good at telling time outside of the farm. Blu watched Falma and Bast, who seemed to be engrossed in a conversation before Bast noticed him. He motioned the boy to come closer and pulled him to sit down next to Falma on the ground.

"We're talking about the mythos, what do you know of them?"

"Um....." Blu hesitated, "What's that?"
 
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