Graded [Guifei City] Runaway Slaves [Part 1]

[SilverFeathers]

Part 2: [Isekai Hell] Runaway Slaves [Part 2]

Intended Narrative:
Encounter a pair of emaciated runaway beastkin slaves, fugitives trying to escape and find a safe space far from this nation of slavery. Give them food, water, shelter or perhaps escort them to the border or some other secretive but habitable safe space. Potentially re-shape their determined but weary views on humans and the empire.

Goals:

• Establish Qilan's Crescent, the forest on the outskirts of Guifei City where Ninelle's ruined fairy village lies
• Give Ninelle a broader view of beastkin slavery across the empire, and how it varies from place to place
• Give Ninelle friendly connections to more beastkin from/in the empire
• Potentially stoke the flames of an uprising, or an attitude of peaceful complacency amongst the beastkin

Cast:

• Ninelle (#54d1b0)
• Kurikara
• Doom (#FBA026) (Left midway)
• Tyrmar (#F37934)
• ??? (NPC)
• ??? (NPC)

Location: Eastern Empire, Yang Province, Qilan's Crescent
Time: Early Morning
Weather: Heavy Rain, Humid, Cool

• ???
• ???

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

Qilan's Crescent, a crescent-shaped arch of temperate deciduous forest that surrounds the outskirts of Guifei City from its west. It is covered in thick and winding shrubbery with tall layers of canopies. Perhaps an annoyingly over-grown environment to traverse for some, but for one, it is undeniably the place she calls home.

A blue-skinned anuran wandered slowly through the trees, the thick foliage above a welcome respite from the torrential downpour. His robe was tattered, with bits and pieces of fabric clinging to his thin body as he leant on his wooden walking stick. By some unfortunate stroke of fate however, his support suddenly snapped in two, sending him face first onto the forest floor.

"Old man, don't die on me yet." A weary, and slightly hoarse resounded from the shadows, as a panther-like felinefolk appeared, cautiously trying to help up his companion. He was garbed similarly to the anuran, with bony limbs and short black fur.

"Tch, I just tripped is all..." The anuran weakly responded, blanking for a bit as if he didn't understand what had just happened, before slowly scrambling to get up with his friend's assistance, his webbed hands clawing away at the mud and wilted leaves beneath him.

His wide silvery eyes were slightly hazy and glazed over as they finally got up, though they barely managed to take a few steps before toppling over again, this time together.

"Just leave me. At least here, far from those humans, wouldn't be such a bad place to die."

"No, we've made it so far, just a little more and we'll be free. Didn't you want to see what the lands beyond this filthy empire was like? We'll get your legs treated, we'll..."

The felinefolk trailed off abruptly, realizing his companion's focus was waning.

EMIYAman

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
​

In the depths of the forest a large outlandish figure roamed. The figure wore armor of pure white, dotted with slitted crimson eyes observing all around it. Its "face" held no features with which to discern its intentions. Upon its back was a blade almost as long as the being who wielded it. This armored warrior was Kurikara. Over a thousand years ago he was known as Unit-01 Fierce Deity Kurikara, by his creators. And in the centuries that came after his armor and those who wielded it went by many names in many tongues. Heroes and Tyrants alike had coveted the power he offered, and in the end his purpose always lied on the battlefield. This remnant of the old world, unexpectedly given a will of his own. Was utterly lost.

'The Wrathful God has been laid low, pathetic.'

"I am aware of your sentiments, you've repeated them many times over our journey."

'And yet still you persist in this state.'

"Navigational abilities have long since been lost to us, I know you have just as little idea where we are as I do." A variation of this conversation had happened multiple times over the numerous days Kurikara wandered the wilderness. The voice in his head had derided him incessantly. At first he had agreed with the voice, and at times he even found the line between "it" and "himself" blurred. But that had been in times of strife both physical and spiritual. Now however, there was only the solitude of nature. Kurikara now found himself longing for the days when the voice was a mere whisper rather than a constant grating companion. His quest was one of power. He wandered in search of it; any opportunity to cast away his weakness and rise to the heights he once had so long ago. The voice seemed to desire this as well. However there was another desire, one he had inherited from his previous users of heroic and just hearts. To sever evil wherever it may be found.

The serene cacophony of the forest rain was cut by a sound belonging to no common animal. Kurikaras helmet whipped to the side following the source of the sound. It sounded like...

'Mortals.'

"Indeed." They were both quiet after that. It had been some time since Kurikara had encountered any other sapient beings. For a time he had entertained the thought this was some trick of the Fae or he had wandered to a land where civilization did not dwell. Now those theories appeared wrong. To say he was happy was an exaggeration but he was certainly more alert, excited even. People meant potential opportunity to fulfill his purpose. If he was lucky they may even be enemies he could cut down. He flexed his clawed gauntlet prepared to draw his blade if need be.

Breaking through the tree line he followed the sound until he could recognize them as a voice. Two distinct ones. He crept closer to the voices unafraid. The torrential downpour fell over his face plate making for a rather striking visage. The rain lightened as he stepped into the cover of a canopy.

"What are you creatures doing?" He addressed the Beastkin he now stood over. He noted the way they knelt upon the ground weak and infirm. Their countenance was wearied as if they had been running from something and for a long time. One of them seemed like death would claim them practically any moment now. "For what reason do you crawl upon the ground so? Speak, or I may just leave you to the end fate has ordained for you."

 

[SilverFeathers]

• ???
• ???

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

The felinefolk's fur visibly stood on end, immediately grabbing hold of his weaker companion and leaping a distance away into the treeline's shadows. He did not land steadily, much less with someone in his arms, but the scattering of rotten leaves and mud disguised most of his faltering. Hollow-cheeked and emaciated, his golden gaze glowed chillingly through the erratic raindrops, firmly staring back at the armoured man despite his weakness.

He did not respond immediately, scanning the armoured stranger with an undisguised scrutiny and wariness before speaking up in a low tone. "...for what reason do you think? We simply fell, is all. There are few I know that enjoy crawling through mud." He scoffed in a cold tone whilst glancing at his frog-like companion somewhat meaningfully, though he did not intend to elaborate on his words any further to the passer-by. Immediately after he spoke however, some sudden regret seemed to flash across his face.

Biting his lip, he lowered his head as he quietly stared back at the bloody eyes of the knight. When he spoke again, his tone had shifted from one of impertinence, to desperation. "Stranger, I beg of you. If you have any spare food or medicine, please share it with this lowly one. I would do anything." He pleaded hoarsely, quickly throwing away his pride for any exchange with his companion's survival. The older amphibian seemed to both hear and not hear what was going on, staring blankly at the felinefolk as he lay there in the rain.

"I cannot answer for him, but I at least, will do all I can to help you."

A sad, desperate voice, laced with bitterness, accompanied the small fairy that flew down from the tree tops. With her characteristic mask nowhere to be seen, and her garb simple and plain with white hanfu, her strange, mismatched face, neck and hands were laid bare for all to see. Though she was perhaps a frightening sight to look at closely, she kept a small round berry clutched close to her chest with both hands, which she quickly fluttered over and offered to the felinefolk.

"For your friend. Trust me, as a fae of this forest, I know very well what can and cannot be eaten here." She began softly, placing it atop his paw before taking a closer look at the pair. Their unnatural thinness was painful to look at, if Ninelle had not prepared herself mentally, she might have not been able to stand it.

"Please follow me, I know a cave nearby which will give better shelter from the wind and rain. Can you walk?" She continued more hurriedly, hovering over the pair with anxiousness, as well as determination, written all over her. Though, once more frustrated by the limits of her strength, she abruptly turned to the metal man nearby.

"Please, Sir Knight, can you help them there?" She flew towards the ominous crimson-eyed and white-clad knight without hesitation and requested his aid. Perhaps it was because his sleek metal reminded her of Ingenium, but she wanted to believe that this stranger had at least some goodwill in his heart for approaching the pair of beastkin in the first place. "It may not mean much to you, but you would have the sincere gratitude of a fairy."

EMIYAman

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
​

He was not surprised at the beasts frightened reaction. Kurikara had made a point to not make himself known till he was sure conversation wouldn't be a complete waste of his time. At the felines indignant words he merely stared back. Kurikara could feel the fear on the beast and in his state he was no threat. It was the lashing out of a cornered animal, nothing more. The creature seemed to realize the foolishness of it's posturing as well. In the face of despair his pride faded, survival was what mattered now.

'Those with no power cling to those who do. For they have not the strength to take what they need.'

"And yet there is strength in them however lesser it may be." Kurikara responded to the voice speaking a loud to do so. Standing over the pleading feline without an ounce of pity.

"I possess no such things, for I have no need of them." He was frank offering no false hope or kindly words. It would serve no one. Kurikara scanned the two beasts trying to decide his next course of action. He had come to them on a whim his distance from other beings having influenced him. Now however he wondered if he should get involved at all. He had nothing to offer them, no shelter, medicine or food. Kurikara had nothing to offer the downtrodden save for his blade.

The eyes upon his armor detected movement. In a flash his hand shot up to the hilt of his sword pulling it out slightly prepared to cut down whatever threat may be coming upon them. What emerged from the trees was no such thing. It was a Fae, and much like the Fairy he had met previously it was rather unique. Though this time rather than a large great sword the Fairy was partially mechanical. At the strange fae's words he relaxed letting his sword fall back into the sheathe. He watched as she flittered about. Her amalgamation for flesh and metal reminding him of days long passed. She then turned to him his crimson eyes focusing upon her small form.

She requested his aid in granting them shelter. He deliberated within himself. The other him made his displeasure for wasting his time on them known, though it did not speak. For a moment he debated leaving them, but then he remembered Kananto and his failures there. He cared not for the lives of individuals, but...

"I am no Knight." He thought back to Gawain the undead with a noble heart. Despite Kurikara feelings on his existence he could not refute the undeads honor. "I am Kurikara a simple warrior. I have no need of the Fae's gratitude. I remove evil wherever I find it, a duty fulfilled needs not a reward." With those words he stooped down stepping past the feline and taking the old amphibian in his arms carrying him in a fireman's carry over his shoulders doing what he can to ease his pain. Kurikara then turned to the other beast. "Use what strength remains in that body. And this one may yet survive his ordeal."

 

[SilverFeathers]

• ???
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

• Taji & ???
• Ninelle

• The felinefolk's eyes flickered briefly with a self-derisive sense of disappointment at the stranger's response. Though just as quickly as it came, his gaze was replaced back with his usual cold determination. Preparing himself to stand back up whilst supporting his companion, he was caught by surprise at the sound of a second foreign voice, freezing up as the tiny fae fluttered into view.
  
  "A fairy...?" He began cautiously, clearly spellbound as he watched the rarely-sighted fae, only breaking out of his trance once he felt the berry rolling around in his paw.
  
  "Ah, thank you miss..." He mentally studied the berry, attempted to recall its characteristics for the future before shakily placing it against his friend's lips. The old anuran was not unconscious despite his unstable state, and slowly started munching, his pace speeding up as he re-awakened his numbed pangs of hunger. It was nothing but a berry. But just that little bit of sustenance seemed to bring him back alive.
  
  Perhaps choosing not to waste his breath, he smiled weakly in gratitude, his round silver eyes glancing slowly between the fairy and the armoured man.
  
  The fairy's mention of shelter made the felinefolk ponder for a moment, but before he knew it, his companion was suddenly stolen from his arms and hefted over the shoulder of the knight. He scowled, intending to steal him back reflexively, but as he tottered wearily on his own two feet, he could only choose to let it go, following closely behind the warrior named Kurikara. "He will survive. All of this would be meaningless without him." He responded in a low tone, occasionally resting his hand on a tree for support.
  
  "Taji. And both of you. Stop talking like I'm dead, can't an old man take a break around these parts..." The anuran spoke up suddenly, hanging uncomfortably on the armoured man considering he was being held by nothing but hard metal. His words were slow and painful, but even and audible. The felinefolk named Taji perked up at the mere sound of his voice, smiling with visible relief.
• "A dutiful warrior it is then. It's nice to meet you Sir Kurikara." Ninelle bowed hurriedly, even forgetting to introduce herself back, though words could not describe her relief at his willingness to help. Being stuck in a tiny body was truly, very frustrating at times. Although she accepted the fact that he wanted to be referred to as a simple warrior, she had to admit his words seemed very much remnant of a stalwart paladin. She couldn't help but ponder what such a strange figure was doing around these parts, she couldn't recall anything odd happening in her very ordinary home forest as of late.
  
  Ninelle led the way ahead, occasionally getting bombarded by droplets of rainwater from the canopies above which knocked her off course. She felt some remorse discarding her leaf parasol so casually, but she did not regret doing so in order to give that pitiful man a berry. The discrimination here was terrible. She had seen more than enough of that in Guifei. But even then, it was her first time seeing beastkin in such an awful state. At that thought, she sought to at least try and improve their future survivability.
  
  "The berries of that bush are edible. The leaves actually are too. Recall their crown-shaped leaves, and you'll be set."
  "Those bright green fruits are good for you, they help with digestion. But beware their dark-green cousins, they give hallucinations."
  "Don't go near flowers that look like that, the ones with iridescent tips. They have a sweet, alluring scent, but that same scent can cause internal bleeding if inhaled for too long."
  
  It really wasn't much of a walk to the cavern, barely a few minutes, but Ninelle sought to impart as much brief knowledge as she could along the way. That felinefolk's eyes were determined to survive. Even if the poor anuran couldn't recall these words in his dazed state, she believed Taji could.
  
  The moss-covered cave was discreet and near unnoticeable despite its size, nuzzled between twisted trees and cracked boulders. A curtain of vines shielded its entrance, which swayed in the current weather's rainy winds.
  
  "Here we are. It should be warmer inside." She sighed in relief, exerting her puny strength to pull open the curtain for them all. The interior was nothing unexpected, apart from being taller than it seemed from the outside, with high nooks and crannies built by natural stone. The floor was littered with dry leaves by the entrance, leaving an audible crunch with each step.
  
  EMIYAman

 

[Honorable Sacred Mountain]

---

---

^{[CS] [THEME]}

[ D O O M ]
^{[Construct] [Adept Blacksmith] [Adept Enchanter]}​

---

---

"Fucking god, and this fucking forest." Doom mumbled to himself. He was barely audible to anyone else and any sound he made was further muffled out by the rustling trees and trickling rain. Clearly frustrated with not knowing where to go, he was left with nothing to do but curse the very being he believed to be responsible for the situation he was in. Underneath his cloak, with no pockets to rest his hands in, Doom's arms simply dangled by his sides. Though with clenched fists, his thumbs remained restless, rhythmically rolling against the tips of his fingers as he aimlessly wandered. Doom's steps were stomp-like and heavy, while his body, which he was not accustomed to yet, was unfamiliarly bulky and wide. Coupled with the softened foliage-filled ground, it made even the simplest of movements challenging.

With his efforts not amounting to much, Doom decided to seek refuge under the cover of a canopy. His cloak was drenched with some portions of it already ripped and in tatters. Stumbling and falling down not once, not twice, but several times, layers of mud had covered him from head to toe. Leaning back against a tree and dropping to the ground, a loud thud briefly echoed throughout Doom's surroundings. Stooped down, all he could do now was sigh. Heavy, deep, and breathy, it was filled with not just frustration, but feelings of inadequacy, and disappointment. "I guess...this was kinda my fault?" Doom finally started blaming himself. This was a behavior that was not new to him. "I guess if I was just a bit more clear with what I wanted, I wouldn't be here right now." He blankly stared into his dirtied hands before letting out another sigh. This was typical of Doom. After being faced with a dilemma he could not immediately overcome, he would displace his feelings elsewhere before redirecting those same feelings towards himself. However, a bit of self-loathing did him wonders; it was usually what got him through most of his problems. "Pathetic." Doom, like a broken record, realized the futility of his own actions. "So pathetic." This served as enough motivation to push him to persevere. Getting back to his feet, though not wholeheartedly, he knew that no one else was going to do it. He had to rely on himself. He sighed one last time - just as heavy - before continuing to move forward.

Overgrowing thickets, lush blankets of moss, thick thorny vines, and strong winds, made his forest journey a bit more arduous than he would like. Fortunately, it was not all for naught. His persistence bore fruit and took the form of conversing voices. Naturally, Doom would be more hesitant, but in situations as dire as he was in, he had to nudge his caution to the side. His cadence had increased as his uneasiness began to grow. Doom was worried that if he did not act fast, he would lose this opportunity. Emerging from a mountain of shrubbery, Doom walked forward at a startling pace; he was not fast in anyway, but was probably fast enough to draw some attention. "Wait." He uttered. Doom's voice was low and rough, gravelly to an extent, but still possessed some boom to it. He caught a glimpse of a party of four. Though of different races, sizes, and appearances, Doom's thought were too dazed to comprehend this. What was relevant to him was that he was no longer alone. Realizing that he had not thought this far ahead, Doom reached a sudden halt and remained awkwardly still for a few seconds. On the outside, his gaze seemed intense and stern. "What to say?! What to say?! What to say?!" This only masked the panicked thinking that was going on in his mind. "Stand down." Doom raised his hand, hoping to deescalate the situation before it even started. His inability to modulate his voice when stressed, and as loud as it was, did not help make things better. "Or else, someone might get hurt" His eyes immediately widened. He did not mean to threaten them, but it looked like he did. Listening to his words, Doom knew that what he said could have been easily be misinterpreted. "Me. I meant me." He had to make things right. "I could get hurt. So please, stand down."

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

The Eastern Empire, a country said to be technologically advanced in the arts of combining magic and science a government that once laid claim to the area of Ryke and has for the last half century biting their nails in frustration as they loomed. The Empire extolled a form of classism based on racial characteristics at birth and forced all beastkin into slavery to support the backbone of their society.

To say that Tyrmar was disgusted by the existence of such a way of life would be a harsh understatement to say the least, it was also part of the reason he was their on the outskirts of one of the fringe cities. In the time he’d spend in the employment of the Count back in Ryke he’d experienced many things, seen many sights and yet he still hadn’t seen even a fraction of what truly existed in the world. The need for experience and his desire to fight greater foes while seeing the wonders across the lands drove him set out looking for trouble as one would say.

He’d heard in the city nearby there was brothel that catered to every type of criminal and underbelly scum that came through the town, so in a twofold method to succeed in his goals he trekked through the forests scouting and keeping an eye out for any shady happenings that could unfold during the night.

After all if he was being honest with himself he’d have much much less restraint crushing a slaver or racist gang member rather than a down on his luck road bandit.

He’d also feel better.

So here he was, a satchel sling over his shoulder and his eyes peeled for any excuse to use his skills or get involved in something exciting.

“Did one of the Tiki heads from Easter Island get sent to this world too?” While not extremely well versed in the art of tracking or even forest exploration, there was no possible way he could miss the giant walking statue man from half a field away. However it seemed as though there was even more to this forest than meets the eyes, moving closer Tyrmar made use of his [Empathy E] to sense around the mood of the being and the general area.

Honorable Sacred Mountain SilverFeathers EMIYAman

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
Interactions: Honorable Sacred Mountain SilverFeathers EMIYAman
​

The armored warrior Kurikara hefted the beast kin over his shoulder walking with him firmly in his grip. The feline called Taiji followed behind. They both stuck to the Fairies route as she dutifully flitted about pointing out various berries and herbs. Noting their gastronomical purposes or lack there of. Kurikara stared straight ahead moving unrelentingly, he didn't go out of his way to make the old amphibian uncomfortable. But he wasn't doing anything that would slow their advance to shelter comfort or not. One of his eyes gazed at the Taiji. If only a little he could commend the beasts tenacity. Upon his back the old beat spoke up in indignation. He could commend the his desire to appear stronger than he was but posturing in the face of death was meaningless.

"Cease your speech, else it be the last you utter." Kurikara responded to him. Intent on quieting him. He had been tasked with his survival, he would not fail due to the old mans pride. Perhaps it was harsh or even unnecessary, but Kurikara was not known for his bedside manners. He was as cold as a glacier and just as inflexible.

'even a cornered mouse will bite back, it does not change the nature of its existence.'

"Hmph, I almost thought you were going to remain silent." If Kurikara could sigh he would. He had grown used to the voices presence but it was a bit tiring to have him weigh in on all his words.

'For what purpose do you cling to these weaklings.'

"You know the answer, they have done no evil. And I cannot stand by while it exists in my presence."

'You shackle yourself. Kurikara was not meant to care for good or evil, they are meaningless. Destruction is the only truth of this world...' The voices brutal words startled Kurikara. He had made his stance on those he considered beneath him clear. But never had he come off so blatantly aggressive. Kurikara knew his purpose he knew what his wielders fought for and had taken on their dream of a peaceful world, but... He would be lying if he said there wasn't some grim allure in the idea. Kurikara craved power, he knew he would need it to fulfill his purpose to reach the heights of strength he once held, but not for the sake of mere destruction.

"You speak of madness. That is not who Kurikara is." The voice was silent after that. They had made it to the cave the Fairy had spoke of. Walking into the moss covered cave he swept aside the curtain the Fairy struggled with her meager strength, and lightly deposited the beat kin on a smooth stone propping him up. After putting him down Kurikara heard a rumbling sound outside the cave. Springing into action he rushed outside the cave hand on hid blade. He surmised it was either a Monster or whoever may be pursuing the beasts. A large figure of stone revealed itself from the depths of the forest. Seeing it approach them Kurikara pulled out his sword and held it aloft. The stone being was shorter than him but it reminded Kurikara of the boulder that had crushed him. That did not help its prospects. Then it revealed its hand holding them up in a placating gesture. It awkwardly stumbled with its words. Kurikara froze with his sword held up right as he was about to attack.

"A Golem Construct..." He slowly lowered his blade but kept it drawn. "Who is your maker, and why do you come before us?" Kurikara already did not consider the Construct a threat with as feeble as he seemed despite his stature. After all, in battle if you you make your opponent flinch, you have already won. But he would be remiss to show himself before a potential enemy unarmed. He may not revel in destruction but that didn't mean he was one for conversation.

 

[SilverFeathers]

• ???
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

EMIYAman
Honorable Sacred Mountain
AbenSur​

• Skill Results
• Taji, ??? & Ninelle

• Tyrmar: Empathy E
  From the golem, Tyrmar would read a myriad of quickly shifting emotions. From some initial shock and surprise to finding the group with his sudden halt, to panic and hesitation as he realized he hadn't figured out what to say or do as his eyes flitted about and his vocal levels were not controlled, and regret at his choice of words as he tried to hurriedly amend things by speaking more.
  
  The armoured figure was wary and on edge, with stiff movements and a blade unsheathed ready to strike at a moment's notice. His wariness was placated by the golem's latter words, seemingly left with only a mild cautiousness as his posture somewhat relaxed, as if he was no longer that wary of the golem.
  
  With the distance between them and a tiny figure, Ninelle was difficult to read. But the erratic and frantic movements of her wings suggested that she was anxious about something, but not the golem considering her open friendliness towards him.
  
  The beastkin had already entered the cavern, but Tyrmar would've seen the back of Taji as well as his walking stance, which would've given off strong/determined vibes despite the obvious fraility of his body.
• Taji followed closely behind Kurikara as his companion was laid down, helping to gently lay his head against the slanted stone. The amphibian laid limply, and the felinefolk seemed ready to accompany him for a bit, but the reverberations through the ground made him stay on his feet alertly. He followed Kurikara back outside, closing the vines to keep the warmth in, and examined the stranger.
  
  With the sound of something large and heavy rapidly approaching, with thumping, earth-quaking steps like an elephant, it was no wonder that all in the vicinity were alarmed. Watching the stony encroacher poke out of the shrubbery, and the lack of aggression he posed, Taji had a look of indifference as he chose to just re-enter the cavern to rest. However, his ears suddenly twitched as he pushed the vines aside, prompting him to give out a warning. "Be careful. There is another approaching."
  
  ---
  
  Ninelle couldn't help but giggle a bit at the newcomer's final few words, the tense atmosphere that was slowly rising in intensity quickly dissipating with it. The fairy curiously examined the bulky stranger, the likes of which she had never seen before.
  
  "A mountain spirit...? Oh, a construct, I see." Ninelle's initial question had a trace of awe to it, though at Kurikara's words it was replaced with a subtle disappointment. The construct was an odd presence to encounter all of a sudden, but it was a welcome one nonetheless, as Ninelle waved towards him with an amicable smile. "Hello there." She somewhat assumed this was just a passing encounter out of curiosity, and the construct would be off on his way to complete his task before long.
  
  "Be at ease, Kurikara. Why keep your sword drawn when he clearly means no harm?" She questioned the warrior gently, as she fluttered over and pat his shoulder, though he likely wouldn't be able to feel it.
  
  After Taji's warning however, she decisively chose to retract that statement. "Oh. Nevermind. Might be best to keep it drawn a little longer." She examined the forests ahead briefly, but with this armoured giant on their side, she wasn't too worried. "Thank you for your continued aid, you are nicer than your words might seem." She thanked politely with some mild surprise, having had the assumption that he would've dropped the beastkin off and left without much of a care.
  
  After speaking, she turned her attention back to the pair inside, peeking at them through the vines. Taji seemed to have talked the stubborn anuran into resting, whilst he sat by the entranceway to guard. It seemed that the felinefolk had inadvertently fallen asleep however, as his body slumped against the wall with folded eyes and ears. Instead, the anuran's eyes were open wider and more alert than before, as if keeping watch in place of his younger companion. Such an enviable relationship they shared. Ninelle smiled and waved at him before focusing back on her goals.
  
  Examining the curtain-like vines, Ninelle pulled out her wand, whispering a few words as one of the leafy tendrils writhed to life. Flourishing under her spell, the chosen vine reached greater lengths and thickness with a more lustrous hue. But her focus was not on blocking the wind, but on sustenance. With a few waves of her wand, she curled the vine around a leafy plant on the forest floor, using its strength to uproot a hefty purplish wild vegetable. Bringing it inside, she repeated the process a couple more times, retrieving a couple edible fruits, leaves and herbs before feeling the inklings of mana fatigue creep through her mind.
  
  
  • Plant Manipulation (Grade E / 1 Post CD)
    • Magic E, Nature Affinity F, Tangle Affinity F, Spell Duration F, Magic Range F
    • Control a single plant within 10ft for 1 minute
    • (Can attack, such as slap, stab or slash, grow them some, or ensnare a target if an appropriate plant.)

 

[Honorable Sacred Mountain]

---

---

^{[CS] [THEME]}

[ D O O M ]
^{[Construct] [Adept Blacksmith] [Adept Enchanter]}​

---

---

His unchanging expression did not falter despite the appearance of the sword-wielding suit of armor. "He's...taller than me." The same could not be said about Doom's quivering knees. Fortunately, the cloak that he wore made this less obvious. As much as he could, Doom was determined to stand still; he was aware that any sudden movements could lead to his down fall and he certainly did not want that. Calming his mind, Doom gathered his thoughts and responded to the inquiries asked of him. With his arm still raised, Doom spoke. "H-Hiro and Hina Kobayashi." That was the closest answer he could think of when he thought of creators. "I stand here before you, for I am lost and f-frightened." His voice was low, deep, and confident - kind of. At this point, Doom cared little if he appeared shameless. It was not the time or place to let pride get the better of him. Lowering his arm to his side, Doom proceeded to bow, tilting his upper body forward towards Kurikara. "I'll b-be in your care." Despite his intimidating appearance, Doom felt that Kurikara was strong. From his actions, manner of speaking, and the way he held his blade, it all exuded genuine confidence. Doom believed that all these were not fabricated, but backed up by skill and strength.

With the position he took, Doom could only look at the ground and glimpses of what was around his periphery. He did here the voice of another, but he chose to not turn to or respond to her greetings. "Was that...a girl?" He had to show the white knight that he was sincere with his words and more importantly, was not a threat - if it still wasn't that obvious. "Thank you, thank you, thank you, whoever you are." Doom rejoiced in his head as he greatly appreciated her efforts to pacify the swordsman. Unfortunately, this only lasted for a few seconds as she quickly retracted her statement for some reason. "I knew it. It was too good to be true." Doom frowned in disappointment but letdowns were something that occurred on a regular basis. All he could do was move on.

Going all in with his gesture, Doom maintained the position he was in and hoped that he would be accepted by the white knight.

Interactions: SilverFeathers EMIYAman AbenSur

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

“Well isn’t that something?” He truly was in a strange world that beings of flesh, steel, and stone could meet so suddenly in the middle of the woods. Although the air seemed slightly tense there was no sense of malice or outward aggression, the perfect setting to make an entrance in his opinion.

Without hesitation he made use of his full speed [Fast E] and rushed forward the party’s location jumping through the jungle brush and sliding into the middle of the two stalemated parties.

“Why hello there weary travelers!” He greeted them all with exuberance and a two fingered salute, he made sure to maintain a calm stance despite his peaked curiosity at the armored swordsman bearing his blade.

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Honorable Sacred Mountain

 

[SilverFeathers]

• ???
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

AbenSur​

Ninelle frowned in thought as she listened in. The makers the golem spoke of had names reminiscent of her old world. In particular, her home country. Around here, in Yang province at least, she had heard many different types of names, with predominant origins of Chinese and Roman/Greek. Those with others, tended to originate from afar. Staring at the stranger, she wondered if he, or his makers, had travelled far to get here? Thinking about it more, she glanced at the warrior as she realized Kurikara did not sound like a name from around these parts either. It sounded more Japanese than Chinese, though it wasn't a standard name. Looking between the two, she wondered if they had come from the same place.

Getting side-tracked by old memories, she quickly shook her thoughts away and hurried along. She was a busy bee, helping gather and organize things for the pair inside despite taking a break from using her magic. Kurikara could decide himself how to deal with this supposedly 'lost and frightened' giant that wanted to be under his care. Searching around the cave for herbal painkillers, she was startled by the sounds of leaves and twigs snapping loudly nearby. Looking up as the newcomer made his presence known, she acknowledged that this must be the other stranger Taji had warned them of.

Meeting new people was always welcome. Especially friendly ones. But Ninelle couldn't help but subconsciously glance towards the cavern shielded by vines and shrubbery. Though not even one of the trio standing outside seemed like a native of this area, the discrimination against beastkin was widespread. Who knows if one of them was a mercenary sent to retrieve these runaways? I mean, why else would they so enthusiastically approach a group of strangers in the woods? The more she thought about it, the more she thought her guess might be correct. Her paranoia even swept across Kurikara, wondering if he saved them just to bring them back alive.

With a smile that wasn't quite a smile, she waved politely at the dark-haired human. "Greetings traveller, where are you headed in this weather?" She asked gently, glancing towards the thick canopies above that shielded most of the downpour. The sound of rain was quite therapeutic, but as she recalled what humid or cold weather did to old wounds, she frowned and hurriedly continued her search for pain-relievers. Maybe... keeping an eye out for other herbs too.

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
Interactions: Honorable Sacred Mountain SilverFeathers EMIYAman
​

Kurikara's smooth visage stared at the Golem. It was a tense scene, the armored warrior stood a full head taller than the stone Construct. With blade in hand he was rather threatening. Few would likely see him as heroic, and conversation with Kurikara wiped away any notion of it. The names the Construct had given were unfamiliar to Kurikara. That made sense however, in this time he had made no effort to know the craftsman of this era nor the institutions they have formed. Its likely any he would know of have been long since lost to the sands of time.

'Hiro and Hina Kobayashi it sounds...'

'Alvian.'

'They are long since gone this Construct can't be that old, unless some remnants survived to form similar linguistics?' He reasoned those were the names of his manufacturers. While Kurikara had a faint familiarity with the sound of the of those names, he paid it no attention. A wandering mind was a weak one. He would keep the golem along for now, if he became a threat, he would cut him down. Then the problem would be solved, simple. The Fairy seemed wary as well advising him to keep his blade drawn. She was confident if she felt she had right to direct his sword. He would tolerate it, he had to do that a lot in this era.

"State your designation Golem, if I am to allow you in our presence I would know your name." Kurikara ordered the Construct his voice sharp and commanding. Just as he was about to sheathe his blade did another presence make itself known. His head steadily turned. Its smooth face meeting the eyes of a brown skinned young man. He possessed an disarming smile and a relaxed posture.

"I grow tired of these obtrusions..." Kurikara stared at the new arrival. His hand tight upon his blade as he held it just above its sheathe ready to swing or stow it away. His voice held barely contained frustration. His rage which he had held back on his lonesome journey was flaring up. Just when it seemed he may snap he shoved his sword into the sheathe with a loud, CLACK!

"Fae, deal with these two. When my mission is complete, this arrangement ends." Addressing the cyborg fairy he stood near the entrance of the cave as a sentry.

'That was you...' There was no response, but Kurikara could feel the satisfaction from the other within him.

 

[Honorable Sacred Mountain]

---

---

^{[CS] [THEME]}

[ D O O M ]
^{[Construct] [Adept Blacksmith] [Adept Enchanter]}​

---

---

His manner of speaking remained stern and condescending, but Doom cared little for this. If he had to be a bootlicker to survive, then so be it. "Doom." He raised his head, correcting his posture as he stood up straight. "My name is Doom." Not the most pleasant of names, but after his shameless display, whatever dread his name could have brought was probably thrown out of the window by now.

Before Doom could return the question back to the armored warrior, they were interrupted by the presence of others. "A dark-haired man" Doom's eyes moved slowly, catching a glimpse of the individuals that appeared around him. "And a...fairy? Wait, that voice. Was she..." He would have been more confused if it wasn't for the fact that he himself was a strange being as well. Speaking to a single person was tedious, but it was something Doom was capable of doing with a bit of effort. But when it came to larger groups, his anxiety would tend to consume him, leaving him speechless and idle.

Unsure of how to converse with the group in front of him, Doom urged himself to speak. He had to break free from his previous reserved self. "H-h-h-hello." Not looking at anyone in particular, Doom stared at the ground as he stuttered his heart out.

Interactions: SilverFeathers EMIYAman AbenSur

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

“Easy now everyone, my entrance may have been abrupt so I apologize but please know that I mean you all no harm. My name is Tyrmar and I’ve been traveling through the woods in search of slavers for enough time to get lost it seems, so I was wondering if you would care to share your dwelling to protect from the rain and give me some directions. I have plenty of food for you and your feline friend there as well as stories to last us through the night!” As he made his pitch he quickly raised his bag with both hands, shaking it lightly to confirm it’s contents of dried food, water and cooking supplies.

While he wouldn’t be able to bring out his best in the current conditions he’d surely be able to make dinner for a group of Fae and metal creatures. He approached and talked to them while using [Compassionate Charisma] to assure them of his intentions and his lack of malice, hopefully they’d be amenable to allowing him shelter.

Skills Used: Compassionate Charisma - [Leadership] E, [Peruasion] E, [Empathy] E - Though his appearance and positive demeanor may display otherwise, Tyrmar is one who has known suffering and sorrow. Through that sadness he identifies with the troubles of others and therefore becomes able to better relate to, comfort and lead them - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown.

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Honorable Sacred Mountain

 

[SilverFeathers]

• ???
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

EMIYAman Honorable Sacred Mountain AbenSur​

Kurikara's odd tone caused Ninelle to still, freezing in place as she looked to the armoured giant. The tense air set off her fight or flight instincts, flinching as mere leaves rustled in the storm's winds. Fortunately, he retreated just as it seemed he was about to strike, addressing her in the process. "Oh... uh, okay." Ninelle complied quietly, slightly stunned as she was broken out of her stupor. Though she had met him first, she had to admit he was the one she feared the most. It wasn't the fact that he was the tallest or armoured from head to toe, it was more that he was unreadable. His words and demeanour were strange, and unlike anyone she had ever met in her past two lives.

Turning to the others as it was designated her duty, Ninelle glanced between the pair of newcomers before giving her greetings. "Hello Doom." She smiled gently, looking at him with softer, more amiable eyes. His shy stuttering was disarming, and with his words and actions so far, Ninelle was finding it harder and harder to believe that he could be a threat.

"S-slavers?" Ninelle couldn't help but blurt out amidst Tyrmar's introduction, before covering her mouth hurriedly. "Ah, sorry, that was rude of me." She mediated sheepishly, though her mind that had once relaxed just moments ago was set off with a whirlwind of speculations. "M-may I ask why you're searching for slavers?" She inquired carefully with wary eyes, before thinking about his requests. "If you're looking for Guifei, it's not that far from here, just head that way out of the woods and you'll reach it. The famed river city of luxury and debauchery. You likely could... find some slavers there." She smiled a little uneasily, trying not to glance towards the cavern too much.

He sounded so sunny and friendly, not at all surprised or appalled by the presence of a beastkin, even going as far as calling him a 'friend'. But to Ninelle, charismatic and confident people were frighteningly unreadable in their own right. She was in a bit of a dilemma, wanting to believe in the goodwill of the stranger but also too fearful to do so decisively. Whilst she hesitated, another voice cut in.

"Little fairy, it's fine. Just let 'em in. Not much we can do in our state anyway."

The old anuran's croaky voice sounded through the rain, weak but somehow firm in strength. Ninelle smiled a little sadly for a moment before responding. "...okay then. Feel free to enter, both of you." Glancing towards the lone sentinel, she hesitated for a moment, before deciding not to speak and just pass by him.

The interior of the cavern had not changed much, being tall and stony with hidden crevices and dry leaves littering its entrance. But small piles of herbs and plants were laid out and organised against a wall, giving the damp air a bit of a unique herbal scent. A heavy, roundish purple vegetable lay in a corner, dotted with fruits like pink grapes, flower fruit and a couple green apples.

The black-furred felinefolk was still knocked out by the entrance wall, dead-asleep and perfectly still. Whereas the blue-skinned anuran would stare at each entrant with his wide frog-like silver eyes, munching some leafy stem of a blue herb. They were both alarmingly thin, their bones and ribcages poking out whilst covered in rags. With his legs stretched across the floor, the scars on the anuran's legs were clearer, bone-deep and lash-like in a mishmash of shapes. His rough, worked skin and body was an odd contrast to the felinefolk's silky and plush fur.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

Though he wanted to respond indignantly to the difference in greeting between himself and the hulking golem besides him, admittedly his actions would seem over friendly at the very least and downright suspicious at most. Taking a glance at the construct beside him he couldn’t help but let out a whistle, the world was even vaster than he thought and to think such a large figure would feel so anxious made him feel a tinge of amusement.

‘Hmm I wonder what type of meal such a creature would eat.’ He rubbed his chin in consternation while listening to Ninelle’s explanation of the Brothel, filled to the brim with ill slavers it seemed. ‘Something to keep in mind, I’ll definitely have to thoroughly inspect this brothel at once.’ Thankful for the rain as it hid the slight reddening of his cheeks at the thought of stepping into a house of sin like that, making sure to slap his cheek slightly to refocus.

Upon hearing the low yet sturdy voice Tyrmar made his way forward and passed through the vine veil, following the floating form of Ninelle and the lumbering behemoth that was Doom his eyes scanned the room and took in the space before landing on Taji and the Frogkin.

It was the first time in this world he could recall feeling dread in his heart.

He didn’t know how long he stood there scanning their malnourished forms, their scarred limbs, the exhaustion that they carried despite being at rest. Flashes flew by his eyes faster than he could perceive before he walked forward once more, ignoring everyone else in favor of the two slaves before he fell to his knees in between them and rested his hands on each of theirs.

“….Thank you for surviving as long as you have. I’m sure you’ve suffered aplenty, I’m sure there’s been times you’ve wanted to die, but you're alive and that’s all that matters, so thank you for enduring for so long.” Bowing his head almost to the ground and closing his eyes he simply knelt silent for a moment, then he sat up and silently pulled out his equipment and ingredients to get started on a hearty dried rabbit stew using his [Domestic Arts E].

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Honorable Sacred Mountain

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara

Interactions: Honorable Sacred Mountain SilverFeathers EMIYAman
​

Kurikara glared at the Construct. His monotone voice contrasting with his words. If he didn't know better Doom would seem like the average golem, just higher quality. The Construct despite his appearance acted as if he was fresh off the assembly line. It was peculiar, but Kurikara didn't care to know something irellevant to his mission.

"Doom? Hmph, your creators are rather flippant. When you cast away your pathetic self perhaps you will then be worthy of such a name." From his position by the cave entrance Kurikaras voice was harsh and scathing, yet not mocking for whatever that was worth. He was dismissive of the brown skinned man who had come across them. Kurikara felt their presence complicated his mission, and the last time he had allied himself with other... It hadn't gone well. The Fae was just about all he could stomach before he grew irritated. As Tyrmar introduced and explained himself Kurikaras reflective visage met Tyrmars own. Silent as the grave. Picking up the conversation in an effort to defuse any tension the Fairy spoke with the two.

'That Human is an impudent one...'

'I know that tone. Accuse me of nothing, I did not wish for this development.'

'Remember the weakness of mortals. A man does not ask an ant for help, so too does a god not desire the aid of a mortal. Lest you remember what happened when you relied on that Witch, or the Vampire?'

'I remember. Evil, evading the justice I was meant to empart... Cease this you've made your point. I will not tie my immutable spirit down, but I will complete my mission.' His mind was finally still after that. The voice was a constant source of stress ensuring Kurikara had no peace even within himself. To Tyrmar and those with similar capabilities it would seem as if Kurikaras emotional state was constantly flipping. From a mild irritation to an unfettered rage. Sometimes both were apparent.

As the voice of the amphibian echoed out from the shelter of the cave Kurikara sprang into action. He didn't draw his blade or even take on a threatening stance but he was ready. Tyrmar and Doom were granted leave to enter and while Kurikara seemed like he would potentially argue, he didn't. When they entered he stood at the entrance blocking easy escape, just in case.

"Do not make any sudden untoward acts, for your own sakes." He gave that final warning his clawed gauntlet flexing as if to show off his preparedness to cut them down if need be. Tyrmar began to speak with the Beastkin while Kurikara stayed quiet. The actions of the human were just another reminder of their frailty. It was why the world had need of a being like him. Who had no such limitations. That was all...

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Lirek
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

EMIYAman AbenSur​

Without warning, the heart-wrenching caw of a ferocious beast rang shrill, cutting through the calming downpour and startling all nearby wildlife. It seemed the construct stranger was no exception, as the hurried thudding of his footsteps echoed farther and farther into the distance.

"Ah, I would've told him not to worry, but he's already gone." Ninelle peeked her head out of the vine curtains for a moment with a sigh. "That fellow, he's just in mourning... he means no harm." She smiled a little hesitantly at Kurikara as she passed him by, hoping if he saw the bird creature he wouldn't strike him down without a word.
---
Awoken by the physical contact, Taji glanced at the human for a moment before pulling his hand away coldly without a word. "We did not survive for your gratitude." He began, his golden eyes placid and calm, though his statement seemed to be steeped in venom. "Who are you to comment on our past? You have no idea what we've been through." He scoffed, his tail swaying with increasing agitation. "The worth of my life, I'm sure you, as a human, know it best. Replaced in an hour, forgotten in a day..." He sung icily, his eyes narrowing into slits. It was clear he was trying less and less to hide his growing fury. "Being alive, is it really worth it if everyone you knew died for it?"

"Taji. Calm down. You know he meant no harm." The anuran stared his companion down with frightening eyes, causing the latter to back off after a few moments.

"Tch." Taji turned his face away, towards the vine curtain, letting the cold weather cool him off for a bit. He only turned back as Ninelle gave him a herb to chew, the same blue stem she had given the anuran earlier with revitalizing and pain-relieving properties.

"Thank you for your words, stranger. I apologize on behalf of my friend over there." The anuran began with a weak smile, turning towards the human that seemed to be preparing a meal for them all. "My name is Lirek. And he is Taji." He introduced gently, leaning back against the rocks behind his head.

"We come from afar. We're in the Yang Province now right? We've made it a long way..." He trailed off nostalgically, looking off into the distance through the vine curtains.

"Just for fun, whilst that stew's cookin' and while we're in the company of such kind strangers, do you want to hear our story? You as well, uh, Korikabra, no, Kuriwara? Yes, Kuriwara stop being menacing over there and come sit down too." He offered smilingly, stiffly patting the spot beside him for Kurikara to sit.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

Presumptuous as it may have been he expected nothing from expressing his honest feelings, so there he sat flame lit under a boiling pot, herbs, mushrooms and dried meats. Sides of bread and cheese were also brought out and place next to the pot for any to partake in. As he evenly chopped the mushrooms and meat together and dropped it into the boiling broth he received the lambasting without retaliation up until the the question of the worth of life.

His steady stirring was stilled as he contemplated the lives that’d passed before his eyes, he’d known fellow slaves before he was freed by Linneus. Younger kids, ones who would come to him for comforts sometimes, older kids who would protect him and speak out when the beatings were especially bad. Adults even older still who took them under their wing or shared stories of times before they were enslaved, some of the precious memories before his migration and something that kept him alive all throughout his indentured servitude.

People who were better than him, people who deserved more, who wanted to live more, all dead or gone while he carried on alive. Turning up his head he tried to smile once more at Taji, even without seeing his face he knows it must’ve been a horrible sight to behold.

“I believe that if after all they’d given me and all they meant to me, I allowed my own tale to end without enjoying life after finally tasting the freedom we so sought for, there’s no possible way I could face them when I die.” Resuming his stirring he turned back to Lirek once more and bowed his head again. “If you’ll tell me I’d be glad to hear it, ah and Ninelle, Kurikara I’m afraid I’ve been a rude guest. Thank you for the hospitality and please do come get some food.”

Spoiler: Stew

EMIYAman SilverFeathers

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara

Interactions: SilverFeathers AbenSur
[/FONT]​

Within the shelter of the cave Kurikara stood in watch over the others. More accurately he actually had to stop down a bit in order to fit in the cave but the result was the same. The Construct Doom was a timid sort. And befitting his nature he ran off before entering. It did not bother Kurikara much at all one less thing to deal with; his mission was made simpler for it. He payed no mind to his leaving allowing him to pass. Yet he could feel the gaze of the Fae. It seemed she was already making her conclusions on him.

'The Fae is wary of me, perhaps even afraid.'

'Then the insect is wiser than it appears.'

'Hm...' Kurikara took it in stride choosing not to respond to the voice. He didn't turn to look at her but one of his eyes swiveled slightly to gaze at the fairy. Then subsequently turned back. The back and forth between the beastkin and human continued. The feline Taji responded with thinly veiled aggression, his experiences had left him bitter. Evil had been present in his life, and it had left in its wake only suffering. This wasn't knew to Kurikara even in the fragmented memories of his past he had seen such injustice time and time again, for centuries. Back then he and his users had the power to stand against it. Not so much now.

The amphibian beastkin attempted to bring the tension between the two of them down. Offering platitudes to the human Tyrmar. The old amphibian also gave his name, Lirek. It didn't matter much to Kurikara but at least it made addressing him when necessary easier rather than just calling him "beast" or "frog". When he called Kurikara over to sit however was bothersome, more so cause he had said his name wrong. It was disrespectful to his legacy to allow that error to go uncorrected.

"My name is 'Kurikara' you would do well to remember the name of your deliverance." His tone was neither chiding or mocking but the content of his words could easily offend especially the prideful Taji who seemed to be protective of Lirek. However despite his words Kurikara did walk over and sit down though he positioned himself to where no one was directly next to him. His sheath with a click of metal clamps detached from his back. He laid it flat upon the ground parallel to himself. Finally he knelt upon the floor folding his legs underneath himself sitting in a seiza position with his hands upon his knees. He sat in relative quiet, unmoving like a statue. He inclined his head to the Lirek. "We are in this, 'Yang Province'? From where did you escape?"

Before long the smell of the stew was wafting throughout the cavern. While he could not eat he possessed the receptors to detect smell. Even he would admit it was a good smell. By his reckoning it must have been well prepared and seasoned despite the lack of proper surroundings for cooking. At Tyrmar's offer for food he raised his clawed gauntlet in a gesture of rejection. "That is not necessary." And left it at that. As the rest ate he looked over to the beastkin pensively. He hadn't known their situation when he met them, but now he had more than picked up on what the situation had been. He addressed them his tone heavy and dry. "I will ensure your escape into liberation. Your grudges however, the weight of the evil you have suffered upon your hearts I cannot free you from." The light of the fire the stew had cooked on spread shadows across the cave partially obscuring the cold smooth metal of Kurikaras face. "If you yearn for justice and feel you cannot lead a peaceful life with the resentment within you. Then I would kill your former Master, if you desire it." He posited his question. Kurikara could not suffer evil in his presence, but the fact of the matter was that he could not be everywhere at once and the evil was less the people and more the situation the Beasts had found themselves in. If they wanted then he would protect them until they were sure of their safety then leave them. Or, he would return to where they had sequestered from, and bring justice with his blade.

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Lirek
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

EMIYAman AbenSur​

The sight of a growing feast in this damp cavern was a strange sight, in particular, Taji and Lirek seemed somewhat mesmerized, lost in thought as they stared at the food.

"How fancy."
"Indeed... like a noble's meal."

They spoke softly to each other, but somehow there seemed to be a myriad of emotions and memories in those few words.

Tyrmar's words were a bolt from the blue after the long silence. Taji's eyes flickered as he stared back at the human, scrutinizing and assessing. After a short silence, he closed his tired eyes, the bags underneath deep and sunken. "I know. I know that very well." Lirek also looked at the chef strangely, probing and cautious, but in the end he kept whatever conclusions he might have drawn to himself. "Now, where to start with the story..."

As Lirek pondered, the meal was readied and the smell became near unbearable to resist, causing Taji to cautiously saunter over. Carefully preparing a bowl, he returned to Lirek's side and sat down. Blowing on each spoonful to cool it, he fed his companion and himself alternatively, with Lirek quickly growing distracted from whatever he was about to say. Their bliss was obvious to the eye, with relaxed eyes and ears after each mouthful, but they ate slowly. Whether it was due to a fear of indigestion, or they simply couldn't chew any faster, who knows.

"Ah, thank you Tyrmar." Ninelle smiled with a discreet sigh, mentally flooded with relief. Only she know how her heart was teetering on the edge by letting the strangers enter. Although with Lirek's words, she was free to absolve herself of responsibility, she would still feel guilty if they proved to be antagonistic towards them. At his kind, almost too kind, attitude towards the beastkin, all negative impressions of the human had long since washed away. "It smells wonderful." She complimented as she teetered on over, contemplating on how to partake in the meal since no utensil was her size.

"Kurikawa or Kurikara, does it really matter? A name is just a name. I lost mine a long time ago when they beat it outta me." Lirek mentioned casually in response to the warrior's words, looking both humoured and a little wistful.

"Eh? How strange, young man, for you to not know the name of the land you currently stand on. Such ignorance could prove deadly y'know." He sighed, shaking his head lightly in admonishment, though his eyes seemed to have gone somewhere faraway. "We fled from farther north, from a city by the riverside. Giliae, they called it. it's colder up there y'know. Especially if you're stuck in the river waters all day." He chuckled a little sadly, before taking another slow bite of rabbit stew.

The pair listened more attentively the more the armoured warrior spoke, with both having completely stilled in their consumption by the end of his words.

"Kurikara... you have no reason to do such a thing for us. None at all. Why do you seek to help us so much?"

"You speak as if you are a knight under our command. It is both jarring... and vaguely painful, to the ear."

"But revenge, huh. You make it sound so easy, but the repercussions of such a thing would be much too large for any of us to handle. I doubt you alone, could face off against the entirety of a noble quaestor's forces."

"But thank you, good man. Regardless of your intentions, such bold words are warmly appreciated." He concluded faintly with a smile, before turning back to his companion and continuing his meal.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

As Kurikara made his pledges and was playfully chastised by the resting Frogkin, Tyrmar could only watch in silence as his Empathy spread forth once more. Though the metal swordsman did not seem like one to boast or spout off his capabilities from nowhere it was always good to be aware of one’s intentions. (Empathy E)

To the side of the meal he’d prepared for the group he saw the almost imperceptibly small Fae that was Ninelle, unsurprisingly none of the spoons were suitable for her, something he embarrassingly didn’t take into account while preparing the food. Spotting his blunder he took the smallest measuring spoon he had on hand as well as his smallest bowl before pouring her a portion probably twice as big as she could eat.

“My apologies, I’ve never had the honor to prepare a meal for one of your stature so it’s left me a tad unprepared. Please eat as much as your heart desires. And if you don’t mind me asking what brings you to this part of the woods?”

Managing a brighter smile than before he gave her a nod of his head following her reply before turning to hear of the old frogs trek from Giliae and his words confirming that he’d been a nobles slave. Setting down his own bowl he waited for silence to fall before speaking.

“Hmm I’m afraid our friend here has beaten me to my offer, I’ve no idea if you had homes or lives to get back to but if you can wait to recuperate or simply want somewhere to call home, Ryke is Ripe with opportunity depending on your skills. Also I’ve never been one to let sleeping dogs lie when I know there’s trouble, if there’s indeed a desire for justice or if there are any other companions of yours you’d like freed from the one who chained you up; I have been wanting to explore more of the Empire.” He ended with a grin before turning back to his food but not before sending a thumbs up at Kurikara, a little formal and brusque but seemingly well intentioned if nothing else.

SilverFeathers EMIYAman

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara

Interactions: SilverFeathers AbenSur

​

He remained motionless but listened intently to the old frog. His story of their escape from Gillae didn't matter much to him. He knew they had suffered that was enough. The refusal of his offer to perpetuate violence however, he had expected it from the elder. But it was something he would have offered either way. Kurikara saw himself as a representation of justice over evil whether, it was true or not didn't really matter. He let one of his eyes focus upon Tyrmar and the Fairy as they spoke and ate. But other than that it wasn't anything important. He turned his attention back to Lirek.

"You need not seek understanding of my purpose..."

'They have not the right...'

"It is a duty as any other, I take no pleasure in it yet it is my responsibility none the less. You are correct to be wary of vengeance, many a men has fallen to such things. But I am not so weak. It is why I offer it to you. That wickedness lay heavy upon the hearts of the common man. So I take it from them, granting them peace and scouring a vestige of evil from this world. Do not worry for me I have no need of it. But, I say too much..." When it came to his mission Kurikara was more verbose than any other time. It was his only essentially his only passion after all if it could be called as such.

'Hehe, as if he could understand the chasm of power between us.' Kurikara ignored the voices mocking words and incessant speech. Instead accepting Lireks words, then turning his helmet to Tyrmar as he spoke up. He made no motion as usual appearing for all to see as if he the very picture of peace and calm. Tyrmar could see otherwise though. The human would sense a flurry of emotions from Kurikara, frustration and dismissal were obvious ones, but among them was a bittersweet nostalgia and something akin to fear but it was an emotion he could tell was unlike a normal human.

"I did not ask for your assistance, Kurikara is not so powerless as to require help." His tone was measured but sharp. "I care not what you do." He cast his gaze away from Tyrmar rudely seemingly having his stoic demeanor broken slightly. But rather than return to his stubborn silence he addressed another. "What say you, Taji? Does your elder speak for you as well? Have you no need of justice, are you content to know your masters sleep at peace with the rest of your kind under their heel? If so, then I will leave them be."

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Lirek
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

EMIYAman AbenSur​

"No no, you've already done more than I could've imagined." Ninelle refuted hurriedly with a smile, genuinely grateful for his accommodation as she reached out to scoop some stew. "For once, I can take part in a human meal without using leaves or my waterskin." She hummed with a little chuckle, though her movements and smile seemed to quietly dim with his question. Pondering briefly before her response, Tyrmar would read a myriad of emotions from her body language, hesitancy, sorrow, bitterness, unease, and a growing sense of guardedness. "I live around these parts." She answered gently but evasively whilst taking a sip from her bowl, before listening in on the others.

"Indeed, Ryke is our goal. A nation without slavery, and a mixed bag of every race, what more could we hope for?" Lirek nodded towards the human, before giving him a strange but solemn stare at his next few words. "Our companions are either dead or on the run."

"Apart from that betrayer." Taji cut in, calm and matter-of-factly, his eyes briefly darkening with a cold light. Though Tyrmar would read a relative calmness and peacefulness from Lirek, Taji's emotions were a little more complex. His anger was an obvious read, but it seemed to be more of a facade or a venting mechanism, as his heart was more dominant with swirls of grief, guilt and regret.

Turning back towards Kurikara, Lirek remained silent throughout the warrior's lengthy speech. "I see now, you see yourself as some kind of missionary of justice. How strange, but I never was one to understand those religious and zealous folk." Lirek began with a shake of his head, before slowly finishing up the last of his stew as Taji went off to get another bowl.

"In summary, you deal vengeance on behalf of others to absolve them of the guilt and hatred that would otherwise come. Why did you have to speak such flowery and lengthy words? Tch, felt like I was listening to one of those preachings." The anuran clicked his tongue as he scolded the giant warrior with a faint smile. "Still, I will have to decline both of you in regards to vengeance. An escort might be welcome though." He looked towards his quiet but dutiful felinefolk companion for his opinion, especially as he was personally addressed by Kurikara.

Originally just walking back over with fresh stew, Taji stilled in his steps at Kurikara's words, remaining standing as he examined the white-armoured figure. The warrior's words were nothing but a blatant provocation. To Taji especially, who had endured crude instigations on the daily, his intentions were crystal clear. The golden eyes that faced Kurikara were once filled with a faint, neutral sense of gratitude and respect, but now, looking down on the warrior, there seemed to be a brief sense of looking at nothing of worth.

"He does, actually. For I am not a fool. You two both speak of assassinating a noble family as if it's a walk in the park, it's quite amusing actually. Regardless of whether you want to charge into the maws of death, demanding justice for the beastkin and waving your sword about, don't drag us into it. I don't want to have the angered forces of the empire's nobility chase us into our new lives in Ryke." Though his words were relentless, they were oddly spoken extremely calm and evenly.

"Unless you become emperor and change the laws on slavery, beastkin will always be lesser here." He concluded dismissively, taking a bite of stew as he returned to Lirek's side and continued feeding him, despite the awkward change in atmosphere.