Fantasy Hunter’s Inn || The Ruins of Bal’dak

[Genii]

The Ruins of Bal’dak
Type: Escort
Location: North. Just beyond Baylin’s Wall.
Quest Contact: Professor Hatkins
Payment: 30gc

Description: A scholar from Colby University would like someone to accompany him to some old ruins just beyond Baylin’s Wall (a wall that borders The Wild Lands). The ruins themselves (or rather, catacombs) are rumoured to be haunted. You’ll find Professor Hatkins by the city gates.

Party members: Xenophon (R), Fain (R), Adolphus (R), Stan (npc)

Pokeking soulofeden
Maxxob


Despite the early hour, the city of Colby was wide awake and buzzing with activity. Locals and merchants were going about their business, and the guards posted at the fortified gates were unbolting its heavy wooden doors to officially start the day.

Stood off to one side, out of the way of the medieval traffic that rattled by, stood a dignified looking gentleman hugging a large ornate book to his chest - Professor Hatkins.

The human was tall, with slicked-back black hair that had begun to grey at the sides, and long sharp eyebrows that formed a very stern ‘V’ shape. He was finely dressed and wore a long navy cloak which brushed against the cobbled street.

The Professor drummed his fingers on his crossed arms as he awaited for the arrival of his escort from the Hunter’s Guild.

 

[Maxxob]

Adolphus
Interactions: Stan Genii
Reactions: Professor Hatkins Genii
​

Making his way out of the Guild Hall and onto the streets, once again his steel graves pressed again the cobbled road. By instinct, the religious militant tried to walk in front of the group, with his shield slightly raised in front of his body, as to protect it. His mace laid resting upon the strap of his belt, as he felt no need to have it in hand while walking inside the city, a much different scene of earlier that same then, when he was, indeed, armed as he walked throughout the bustling city.

“Do you know what we may encounter in the wilderness around these parts?” - he asked, directing himself to the bard, yet not looking at him and keep his sight on the road in front of them. He assumed, as the man was natural to those parts, he would have a better understanding of what they might encounter and Adolphus wanted to be, at the very least, a bit prepared against what they might face.

While he walked, his right hand appeared to be a bit restless, a metallic sound came from his gauntlet, as the man opened and closed his hand continuously. That went on for a few minutes, until he finally stopped doing so, as a curious man came within his sight. By his very looks, the way he was dressed, the impression he left on the steel titan was one of the learned person. Stopping a few paces from the man, he didn’t direct himself towards him. Instead, he brought his closed, right fist to his steel chest - “Miraculum, da mihi gratiam tuam ut nomini tuo gloriam afferas” - he muttered to himself with a chilling voice escaping the small openings of his helmet.

 

[Pokeking]

Xenophon yios Calix​

Location: Streets of Colby
Interactions: Adolphus ( Maxxob )
Reactions: Hatkins ( Genii ), Fain ( soulofeden )

Outside again, but more of Xenophon was seen. When he arrived in Colby the day before, people could tell he was a minotaur by his horns and snout poking out from beneath his hood. However, if one was at a distance and especially if the minotaur's back was facing you, there might be room for doubt. Some type of headwear? Exposed as he was, it was clear he was a minotaur. One he stepped outside the Inn, he breathed deeply and headed with his comrades in the direction of the city gates. He told Adolphus, "I've been looking forward to this mission ever since I heard of it. Although I am of Calix, a warrior clan, my background is in being a scribe. Of the posted quests, this one seemed most appropriate."

There were several locals who reacted noticeably towards him. A few eyed him suspiciously, some were curious, then there were those that backed away out of apprehension. Xenophon hoped that in time, they would get used to him. It might take months. For a moment, He tried to picture what it would be like a year from now. Who would still be here? Who would have left? What new faces will I meet? He didn't know how long he would be here. He was not able to imagine being here for the rest of his life, but could see him being here for several years. He imagined returning home after a decade and encountering children and them looking up at their parents, "Father, Mother? Who's that?" They reply, "That's your Uncle Xen." His eyes got watery, but someone would have to be right next to him and looking right at him to see. They would also have to be looking right at him for that moment because a minute later, his demeanor had distanced itself from wistfulness to return to normal.

Their team approached the city gates and Xenophon spotted a tall man with greying black hair. The minotaur studied the way he dressed and the way he cradled the tome. Certainly this is the professor. Oh, Maestro. If you were here, I am sure you and the Professor might have much to talk about. One learned man to another. Do not be put off by Ovid's appearance for you might find him a kindred spirit.

Xenophon was conflicted between wanting to be first to speak to the Professor and allowing that honor go to Stan because of his seniority at the Guild, but Adolphus appeared to speak first to Hatkins. He placed his hand over his heart and bowed deeply to formally introduce, "Honored Maestro, I am Scribe Xenophon yios Calix. I am here from the Hunters Guild with Bard Stan and Comrades Adolphus and Fain. We are here to accompany you to the Ruins of Bal’dak."

 

[Genii]

“Outside of Colby? … wolves, bears, cougars, bandits… maybe a monster or two.” Stan answered Adolphus. “North of Baylin’s Wall though, that’s a different story. Everything out there wants to catch, kill or eat you. There’s no knowing what we might come across, but the guild does have an extensive bestiary back at the Inn if you’d like to take a look sometime.”

The bestiary was a compendium of notes and sketches made by Hunters past and present. An unofficial record of all the creatures they’d encountered whilst out on quests, both north and south of the wall.

Stan greeted a few of the locals as he followed along after Xenophon and Adolphus. They knew the Bard, so hopefully it served as some reassurance that the two intimidating looking Rookies in front of him didn’t pose a threat.

The Professor regarded the group warily until the Minotaur explained who they all were. As soon as the Ruins were mentioned, the Scholar’s displeased frown subsided and he gave them a quick bow in greeting.

“Ah, wonderful. I must say, I have waited some weeks for a response to my notice.” Hatkins said, looking pleased with who had finally answered his call, especially the two larger Hunters. “I appreciate how perilous this journey may be, but the artefact I seek is most important… to the Colby Academy of course.”

Stan & Hatkins
Location: At the city gates

Pokeking
soulofeden
Maxxob

 

[Maxxob]

Adolphus
Interactions: Stan Genii / Xenophon Pokeking
​

“Ahhh… so beyond the wall is where the fun starts, huh?” - if Adolphus’ helmet wasn’t so closed, the group would have been able to see a wicked grin forming on his lips To test his might against strong, relentless enemies filled with bloodlust, that is what the man was all about, as was the Miracle, demanding that its followers were as strong as they could. Survival of the strongest, per se.

The zealot listened to his taurine companion, listening to his own craft, besides being a warrior. When he said he was also a scribe, and having noticed the lyre that the creature carried, a saying popped in his mind: jack of all trades, master of none. Was that the case with Xenophon? His own order had a few scribes in it and, if he remembered well, they weren’t so proficient in combat, but they could handle themselves in a pinch. They need were explained that the order’s history had to be recorded as to when the Miracle overcame the other false, feeble gods the people would know who championed the true, all-might divine being.

“If you ever have the patience, time, and are willing, I would like to learn the very basics of being a scribe” - the towering steel wall said, turning himself toward the ox-man - “I am afraid all tomes regarding my Order are gone, and I would like to write them down for posteriorly…” - “... while I still draw breath” - that was the only true fear that the religious militant had: to be gone before achieving his objective and that all his past would be erased in a blink of an eye.

As far as he knew, he was the very last champion of his Order threading on its original purpose. After it was crushed down by the Empire’s forces, its remaining members scattered, each following their own way. The three faith-brothers that set out with Adolphus, unfortunately, met their own ends. And the Miracle did not heed their prayers as to bring them back. Lack of favor with it was the explanation given by the most senior member, Planesium Reginus, as to why it happened… or, better said, why it didn’t - “In return, I could offer to teach you about the Way of the Hammer, if you think it would be useful to you. Or the Miracle itself” - he finished, looking at the minotaur directly into his eyes.

He had doubts if the very last offer would be of any use, as the man genuinely had no idea if the god favored non-humans. During the endless litany that had entered his ears, the man not even only had heard anything about how the Miracle interacting with all the different beings he had encountered so far, but still he dared not to assume if its goodwill was extended to every being alive. Deeply, he hoped that it was the case, otherwise wouldn’t they be doomed?

 

[Pokeking]

Xenophon yios Calix​

Location: Streets of Colby
Interactions: Adolphus ( Maxxob )
Reactions: Stan ( Genii )

Xenophon listened to Stan as he listed what they could face out there. If the kinsmen in my clan where here, they would be salivating as surely as the dog beside the table of its master. He would by lying to himself if he didn't find the prospect of the encounters a little alluring. The bandits. Give me bandits. Those who prey on the weak disgust me. It reminded him of the history lessons Ovid taught.

Centuries ago, when the minotaur nation lived as one people, they lived in uncertainty. There were many who felt that treaties with other nations served no rational purpose but to fence them in like the cattle they resembled. The arrival of the Garenians was seen as a blessing. They promised a road to glory. No longer would they be hemmed in. They could indulge in the spirit of battle and live as their ancestors for a thousand years before they were corrupted by ideas like peace and tolerance. The Garenian envoy promised much. Why shouldn't they dominate the weak? Why can't the farmer be allowed to leave his plow and make the conquered bear that burden? Doesn't he deserve glory on the battlefield also? The Lord Aldebaran at that time heard the envoy's words. There was a darkness behind the words. It was a darkness that he felt was an affront to their values. He pleaded that that there were other forms of glory. His appeals fell on deaf ears but he did have some supporters.

Those that supported the treaty jeered as Aldebaran and his supporters left. Go live with the weak. You will become weak yourselves. They held their heads up high and knew that they must bid farewell to what had been their homeland. They did not deny their savagery, but they were more than that. There were architects, farmers, clerics among them. They welcomed any who felt that this alliance was wrong and were quick to mete out swift judgment to the false who had taken advantage of their offer of amnesty.

In the present, Xenophon mentioned to no one in particular as they got nearer to the gates, "I'll squish as many enemies as possible. Especially if they are giant bugs." He lowered his head and jabbed into the air with his horns. His eyes perked up when he heard Adolphus's request, "I would be honored to instruct." He then considered the armored man's offer. It was a fair trade and even if he didn't incorporate Adolphus's believes into his own, it was worth learning more about him. He was already encountering people and beliefs that were unknown to Dreema. Should he come home before Ovid died, he would relay all the knowledge he had accumulated. "I would also be interested in learning more about your ways."

Xenophon was also keen to learn more about Professor Hatkins. He focused on his words so that once they got to a rest stop, he could take out his tablet and parchment to take notations. For you Teacher Ovid.

 

[Genii]

Stan physically shuddered as Xenophon mentioned giant insects. It was highly likely they might come across some. Bugs did like dark damp places after all.

“Artefact?” The Bard repeated as the Professor gave some clue as to what he was looking for. “So this is a treasure hunt?”

“Why the Ruins themselves are the true treasure.” The Professor explained. “-built by the Ancients, long before historical records began.”

“The Academy has excavated similar sites throughout the Hartlands, though most have been ransacked by opportunists and grave robbers.” The Scholar frowned. Throughout the Kingdom, glyph covered stones had been repurposed by civilians to make their houses, and any treasures the ruins may have contained had been sold or melted down for profit.

“As the temple of Bal’dak resides North of the Wall, my hope is that it has not yet been desecrated.” Hatkins added, before gesturing for the group to follow him. “Come, we must make haste, for it would be very unwise to be North of the Wall after dark.”

Through Colby’s gargantuan gates there appeared to be one main (dirt) road. The land either side of it was mostly flat and agricultural, with the occasional farmhouse or rural hamlet.

It wouldn’t be long before the road would cut through woodland, the top of Baylin’s wall occasionally visible in the distance as the towering barrier dwarfed most trees.

Stan & Hatkins
Location: Main road leading out of Colby

Pokeking soulofeden Maxxob

 

[soulofeden]

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  Stan & Professor Hatkins ( Genii ), Xenophon ( Pokeking ), Adolphus ( Maxxob )
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

FAIN

the chameleon

The morning air was nice and cool as the sun began to rise over the horizon of trees. After spending the evening in the Guild Hall, and the night in her room at the Inn, the scent of the pines was most welcome in comparison to the dry wine and sweat that permeated the inner walls of the Hunter's Inn. The fresh air brought her clarity of mind and a sense of reassurance as it filled her lungs, no trace of tightening there to be found. She thought about the leather case of draughts in her rucksack. Hopefully it stays that way -- especially since we're taking the journey on foot.

The group had met the Professor, who seemed quite excited about seeing the ruins and finding a specific artifact. Her Rogue class itched when she thought about it -- the quest sheet hadn't mentioned any sort of treasures. Perhaps combat training wouldn't be the only thing she'd find in the Ruins of Bal'dak. If there are artifacts in the place, it's possible that they might have significant value. Now, keeping it a secret from everyone else...that would be the real challenge. The Professor could have whatever he'd set out to look for, of course -- her honor depended on his deliverance and his own mission's success, after all.

Something the Professor said pulled her out of her hopeful pondering.

"After dark?"

she echoed.

"Is it the case, then, that more perilous monsters lurk outside of Baylin's Wall when night falls?"

She looked around at the small quest party.

"And on top of that -- have any of you traveled past the Wall before? I came from the West, after all, not the North -- the worst I had to deal with during my trek to the Hunter's Guild was highwaymen."

It wasn't a full confession that she didn't have much experience fighting monsters -- her specialty was combat with people -- but she wanted to know more about what dangers they may face besides bears and bandits. And, apparently, giant bugs, she shuddered inwardly. Fain hated bugs of all sizes, so if she encountered one the size of herself, she couldn't say that she wouldn't simply faint.

♡coded by uxie♡

 

[Maxxob]

Adolphus
Interactions: Fain soulofeden / Xenophon Pokeking

​

The man nodded towards the taurine companion, glad that he, not only he had agreed to share his knowledge in his trade as a scribe, but also had shown interest in learning more about his own faith. Adolphus then focused his attention towards the professor, as he explained more details of the task at hand.

An abandoned ruin, ancient, with knowledge probably lost with the passing of time. Was that a quest for knowledge or for power? Was there any real difference between them? At any rate, that was for the professor to evaluate, as their mission was simply to escort the learned man to the ruins. But still, the idea of the unknown that could be inside that decrepit, forgotten temple had left the crusader slightly unnerved.

“I have no idea of what wait us beyond the walls, but there is only one way to find out” - he answered the silver long-haired female, putting himself once again at the front of the group as they advanced along the dirt road, and towards the woodland. The fanged mace had already left its resting place and was already in the man’s hand, being gripped with confidence. His senses were slightly heightened as adrenaline slowly started coursing through his blood stream.

 

[Oli Beju]

Colby Plains Hillside​

The sun beamed relentlessly on her fair toned hand, raised to shade her squinted crystal blues from its onslaught. Though otherwise unfazed, she nonetheless breezed herself with her satin embroidered Cretonne fan while staring on the horizon. From morrow en nigh, the woman had trekked out of the city on foot, stopping on a hill overlooking the main road that threaded Colby’s gates and into the countryside. “I say… the Guild’s recruitment standards have become noticeably… blasé in recent months. Previous hunters would’ve traversed an entire league in not even half the time it’s taken for this lot to reach yet far. Although…” The crimson of her lips curled into a grin, “… I suppose their indolence does hasten our creed, doesn’t it?” The woman spoke with a voice that was as characteristically sultry as the summer heat that befell her. On last words, she pivoted, awaiting a response from whom else but the cloaked hunchback trudging several dozens of paces behind her.


His walking stick churned dirt, dug in as it tilted forward, and was followed by his drudging shoes. The “old hunchback” looked up, his face young, hirsute in long stubble, and drenched in sweat as he approached the woman, responding in scintillating diatribes: “Well listen to you, trying to hurry things along! Damned light skirts… not like you’re carrying a bloody ox on your back!”


The woman sighed tremulously, “You complain and yet you can’t argue that the ‘deformed old crone’ aesthetic rather becomes you! You’ve certainly the countenance for it…”


“I’ve lifted vats full of NITER that weigh less than this brat! If I hadn’t downed an extra two doses of Fool’s Aplomb, I’d have given to exhaustion half a mile ago! I can hardly feel my legs!”


“… Griggs… I’ve kept us at so furtive a distance that we’ve remained completely out of sight since we left Colby. There’s been no cause for you to tow our little urchin around like that since we departed, my insipid little dotard.” She tried to appear annoyed, yet her eyes betrayed the vitriolic delight she took in her words’ delivery.


Griggs stopped in his tracks and buried the cane so far into the ground that its polished oakwood frame practically warped under his weight. Rage and stunned acquiescence were locked in battle for dominion over his tongue until, finally, rage won out: “I— You— … Had it not occurred to you even once… that you might have run this by me AN HOUR AND A HALF AGO!?” The “hunchback” bellowed his denigrations at the woman. “And YOU,” he turned his head as though looking behind him, “HEY! Looks like it’s the end of the line, squirt! BUGGER OFF!!!”


The querulous man leaned forward, then violently lunged backward at the waist, his languid arms flailing in follow. The robes flew from his torso, and with it, the ‘hump’ that they concealed. The bundle kicked up dust and dirt upon landing, but when the detritus cleared, a small child dressed in foreign robes of his own was seated perfectly upright, calmly playing with a couple of small, wooden puppets. Despite his small stature, the ostensibly jejune adolescent seemed completely inured to the fact that he’d just been bucked from the back of a six foot man, and fiddled with his toys as though the two adults weren’t even present. The strings on his puppets were tangled, and the two adults’ carping at each other clearly took no priority over detangling his smaller, lifeless companions. Griggs, however, leaned backward in a stretch, his tall, somewhat muscularly toned frame hugged by the white, sweat drenched Bastian shirt tucked into his low cut britches. He then angrily tied his draping, ill combed hair into a ponytail, all while glaring daggers at the woman before him.


Even biting her lip, the woman could hold back her frisson no longer, and grinned lasciviously at the dripping proof of the man’s toil, eyes locking on the places where the soiled shirt hugged his chest, practically sculpting the toothsome contents underneath. She then continued her badinage, “You know, between your complaints, piffle remarks and that cane, you really did make for a rather convincing old curmudgeon!”


“One of these days, Hyra...” Griggs husked under his breath, finishing his ponytail and wiping the sweat from his forehead.


“Plus, if by chance you’d have kept your disguise and we were accosted, it would afford me the explanation that, in addition to my divine beauty…” she tauntingly lingered on the last words, “… I’m also a caretaker to abominations and the elderly alike!”


“Ah, yes. Ye’ ol’ charitable ‘Little Red Riding Harlot.’” He mordantly quipped.


Hyra rolled her eyes and smirked incredulously, looking on the horizon one last time at the legions of farmland that seemed to quilt the countryside: blocks of tilled land corrugations would butte parallel against blocks of like land trough columns, and butte against rows once more until the gestalt reached the wall of woods that seemed to enclose its rhythm. Roads meandered the monotony, guiding the industrious pedestrians whose continuous movement betrayed the tranquil stillness of it all.


Griggs, by now, was standing completely still with his arms outstretched, as though waiting for Hyra to do… something. She looked to him, stared up and down, wordlessly blinked and then looked back at the horizon for a beat. She then looked back at Griggs, who was still staring at her with arms outstretched, before impatiently gesturing to his drenched clothing. Sighing and rolling her eyes once again, Hyra walked over to the man and slowly, sensually placed a hand on his chest. “To be honest, I much rather prefer you as you are now, but I suppose if concessions are due…” She closed her eyes and aggressively gripped his shirt. Slowly, the dampness of his torso coalesced, minute waves of pooled sweat moved through the shirt’s fibril and toward her hand, surrounding it. When finished, she pulled her hand away and discarded the slightly dirty colored water. “I realize I’m supposed to navigate, but what exactly are we to expect upon arrival to these ruins?”


“What do we always expect?” He retorted, walking over to the silent child. After a few seconds of receiving a stare down from the towering silhouette, the child finally pulled his attention away from his puppets and looked up, shielding his eyes as he examined the man basking before him in the sunlight. Whence he had the boy’s attention, Griggs looked at him and nodded off to the side, signaling for the child to move. The child looked down, realizing that he was in fact sitting on the dirtied robe that had once been his hiding place, and did as directed while Griggs reached down into the robe’s inner pockets, taking out a number of small vials, a few daggers, and some other small objects. All the while, he continued to Hyra, “We follow our wayward adversaries to coax our ‘friend’ out of hiding.”


“You… do realize that this is an escort mission; not a hunt like the others. They could very well proceed through those ruins unmolested. If that happens, the beast could escape and we’ll miss our target—“ Her words were stopped short by the clanking of a dagger into its scabbard as Griggs, who once had his back turned, pivots and faces her, holding a particularly green vial containing a treacly, viscous black fluid inside.


“Trust me.” He spoke with a slight glare in his eye as he rotated the corked vial before himself. “We won’t.”

 

[Genii]

“Being North of The Wall is dangerous no matter the hour, but at night it would be harder to see what hellish beasts may lie in wait for us.” The Professor warned.

“Never been past the wall myself, but I’ve heard plenty of tales from Hunters back at the guild.” Stan said as he started to pluck at a few strings on his lute.

“This is not the first time the Academy has journeyed to the ruins.” Hatkins said as they continued to cut through the thick forest.

“Thanks to a previous excursion, we know that the temple was built by the Ancients in honour of Bal’dak - a primeval God of death. Unfortunately the trip was cut short due to… unforeseen circumstances, but I am confident that with your assistance we can discover much more.”

Stan
Professor Hatkins
Location: Woodlands just south of Baylin’s wall.

Pokeking soulofeden Maxxob Oli Beju

 

[Pokeking]

Xenophon yios Calix​

Location: South of Baylin's Wall
Interactions: Professor Hatkins ( Genii ), Fain ( soulofeden )
Reactions: Adolphus ( Maxxob ), Stan ( Genii )

"Make haste" The phrase and the tone in the Professor's voice caused a reaction in Xenophon's body. His cloven feet took great strides towards their client. He wasn't sure what Hatkins's reaction would be. He wasn't even sure if the man had met a minotaur before but he acted out of habit. As a scribe in training, he handled assignments here and there given to him by any of the Lady's counselors including Captain Titus, his own father. In another time and place, he would have been called a gofer. However, most of the time, he was assigned to Ovid. Ovid yios Baeligni, the older male with faint scar from above his left eye down to the right side of his muzzle he had earned in his troubled youth, asked Xenophon to walk right beside him when he was on his errands throughout the manor or in the city or in the odd occasions when they ventured beyond the city walls as he gathered herbs and other ingredients he used in his medicines.

Once Xenophon stood next to the Professor, he nodded at the man. "Ready Maestro" He looked at Fain and answered, "I am a stranger in a strange land. I've come across land and sea in that direction." He gestured to the northwest with his hand. "I will need to rely more on skill and strength than on knowledge of the area." As soon as they passed the walls, Xenophon's hands went to his sides and he pulled out the two parts of the baxtrix. He connected the two parts and twisted the middle. A faint locking sound could be heard. He held it in his left hand as a staff. If it could talk, it would say it was eager for true battle not practice in the dojo or displays in the coliseum.

The baxtrix was a marvelous piece of engineering in the field of weaponry. It seemed to be made of wood and metal, but that was not the case. It was all metal. What was thought was wood was actually the metal adamantine which in Dreema had a yellow brown hue. When the minotaurs immigrated, they were exposed to all sorts of new metals and minerals. Their artisans salivated at the prospect to create such works like they never could before. A baxtrix forged in Dreema could easily outpace one forged in Asterion if they were still being made there because the Garenians preferred bladed weapons. Xenophon's uncle Apollyon oversaw the forging of the baxtrix himself that Xenophon now had in his hand. He saw that Adolphus had held his mace at the ready. At some point, he would like to ask the man if he could hold the mace and have a good couple swings. However, some people are very attached to their personal weapons because they are extensions of their own bodies. Only under grave circumstances would such a warrior pass his weapon to another.

His ears heard Stan pluck strings of his lute. Xenophon had mixed feelings about that. At least it is him and not me. Music is for when we stop and set up camp, but I'll be busy with my notations both for myself and those of the Professor if he allows me. His mind then turns to watches. He did not want to include the Professor since he was the client. That leaves four. Adolphus and I can not share a watch. Perhaps me and Fain for one watch, Adolphus and Stan for the other. His father told him of warriors who trained their bodies and spirits to be just as alert asleep as when awake. They could be in deep sleep but spring to attention at the slightest footstep as quick as a frog's tongue latching onto prey.

Xenophon tuned out the lute to focus on his surroundings and comments Hatkins might make.

 

[Genii]

Stan was idly rehearsing a tune for his own pleasure. It wasn’t really something he’d play back at the inn because the crowd there preferred jollier jingles.



His melody echoed down the road and out into the forest as they travelled - at least until they got closer to the wall.

Baylin’s Wall, for any who had yet to see the wonder, was very imposing. It stood (just about) eight meters high and spanned the entire Kingdom - and then some. Made out of large blocks of pale grey stone, with no doorway or openings, other than the occasional guard tower (if they had survived the elements).

Despite there being no official doors, the wall was in a poor state of disrepair. It had severe cracks, gaping holes and was practically a ruin in some places.

The Professor led the small group away from the main road and walked parallel with the wall for a mile or so. They passed plenty of suitable places to cross the boundary into the Wild Lands, but the Scholar obviously wanted to stay on the ‘safe side’ for as long as possible.

They reached a tree with a large ‘X’ carved into it and Hatkins finally stopped with an, “Ah, here we are.”

“We will take our leave of the Hartlands here.” The Scholar gestured to a large crooked arch-like opening in Baylin’s Wall. This would be their portal into the unknown. “I recommend you ready your weapons and speak softly from this moment on.” He said as he made his way through to the opposite side of the wall.

Anyone passing through the gap would feel… peculiar. There was a vale of magic here. A second unseen barrier, but it was extremely weak - just as broken and neglected as it’s physical counterpart.

Pokeking Maxxob soulofeden
Oli Beju

Astrophil

((I wondered if the group would be able to hear Calixto fighting yet? And if so would they still be South of the wall? I’m happy for it to interrupt them passing over to into the Wild Lands if Cal and the bandits are still on the Hartland side. ))

 

[Astrophil]

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Calixto and ArthagusInteractions: The four masked men
Location: Random Woods

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'Alright, Cal. It's time to use your big-boy brain and form a simple, non-complicated solution. Something easy on you and for Arthy.' He's smart, not plan smart. The density of this area was suffocating, the kind Calixto doesn't find all too pleasing. Cal's nose is getting slaughtered by the stentch of those brutes, his poor eyes burning upon gazing at something hideous, and his body is ethereally crushed. It's strong enough to make a grown man wail in sorrow. The four bandits draw their weapons and step forward, only for Cal and Arthagus to take a few steps back. "Manners. Have none of you heard of it?" His eyebrows pull together while his free hand creeps into his bag to pull out his spellbook.

"I have enough of your games!" The 3rd spoke, lunging at him with such ferocity. Calixto sidesteps his attack and whips out his book with a swift motion of his hand. The 3rd man was surprised at his quickness and gave Calixto a vengeful stare. He smacks the man in the back of his head with said book. The force was strong enough to make the other man fall. He watches him fall to the ground face-first into the stream. "Patience, my good man. Your restlessness is what earned you a disciplinary smack. Now-" He got interrupted when Arthy stumbled over to the fallen man and jumped on his head. The griffin sits down on his as he did with him when he fell face-first into the stream.

"Good job, Arthy." A celebratory glint in his eyes, "Keep working on your drowning skills." Arthagus puffs out his chest, letting out a happy hoot. Hearing one of them rushing towards him, Cal opens his spellbook and shouts one of his spells. "Divine Shield!" An energy barrier of gold forms around the three. It was the 4rth bandit that tried to attack him next, only to be kissed by Cal's magical barrier. A wobble sound echoed far and wide throughout the forest, a snicker on Cal's face at the failure of these four men. "You guys sure you can kill me? Are you trying at all?" He was getting too cocky during his supposed battle, and that's one of his rookie mistakes.

Don't tease the people trying to kill you. It'll only make them psychotic.

Speaking of which, the 2nd one (who's most certainly a serial killer) snorts. "Useless rookies." Venom trickled in his words. Wait a second. The other two were rookies? Then what bloody Hell are the other two?!? The murderer removes the gloves from his right hand, tossing the glove on the ground without showing a slight bit of care to the particle of clothing. That action alone crushed Calixto's soul. That man is worse than a demon, and Cal's not afraid to say what's on his mind. "You blasted heathen! How dare you treat such a wonderful fabric like it's worth nothing!?!" The 2nd bandit grimly laughs, bringing his dagger to the palm of his hand, and cuts it. Not a second after, dark energy swirls around the masked man. It's making Cal sick to his stomach. He clenches the shaft tighter, and his body immediately was on the defensive.

He didn't felt this energy before; however, his angelic voice was yelling at him about what it was:

Dark Magic.

Oh, how today is Cal's unlucky day. His two-colored eyes watch as the dagger changes forms. Cal's face became pale as the small blade converted itself to a scythe. The man's blood covers the entirety of the edges of the blade. The Nephilim was getting hammered by the stench of blood and the dark magic swirling. By the second, it's getting harder to keep standing. His jaw clenches and his eyebrows meet once more on his paled face. He better not die to a bunch of nobodies. Not by simple side characters such as them. Arthagus is too afraid to move from his spot and gazes up at Calixto for reassurance. He hated doing this, but there was no choice. He's outnumbered by 1 to 4 until he removes the potential threats.

He twirls his weapon so that the blade is facing downwards. Pressing the tip against the other man's back, who's still on the ground. Cal turns his head away as he plunges the man into the back. He granted the man a quick death. That's all he can give him during this vital moment. The 2nd didn't care that his comrade was dead and went straight for the barrier. He sliced through the energy-filed with his eyes of a predator locked on Calixto's. Cal evades his attack only by a few inches and yanks Arthagus by the scruff to pull him back with him. Dropping the griffin as carefully as possible, "Go to the sidelines and hide!" Arthy does what's told and scrambles through the vegetation to hide. Arthagus didn't dare to argue with his friend. Calixto's eyes dart to the 1st man to see what he's doing. The 1st leaning against the tree with his arms crossed and staring hard at Calixto. The 4rth one who got knocked down by the barrier was sitting beside the 1st, looking down at the ground ashamed.

'Why weren't they joining? Why are they sitting there?'

"Focus on me, fool!"

His eyes snap back to the man he's fighting, only to see the scythe coming his way. He quickly raises his weapon to block the attack. The man's scythe cut his left cheek, and he could feel the blood burning his flesh. "You don't want to have some fun with me?" Cal has a look of shock on his face, and his mouth agape slightly. "No! You're a crazed monster! Why on Earth would I ever want to play with you!?!" The two were going toe-to-toe, with both men focused on each other. Arthagus watches on with concern in his eyes of blue, and he chirps worriedly for Cal's safety. Steadily, he starts to grow in size, yet only by a small amount.​

 

[Genii]

((I’m just waiting for the characters who have a good sense of hearing to pick up on the shouting etc. ))

 

[soulofeden]

╓┈♔◦☓◦☙◦♔◦☙◦☓◦♔┈╖

Calixto and ArthagusInteractions: The four masked men
Location: Random Woods

╙┈♔◦☓◦☙◦♔◦☙◦☓◦♔┈╜

'Alright, Cal. It's time to use your big-boy brain and form a simple, non-complicated solution. Something easy on you and for Arthy.' He's smart, not plan smart. The density of this area was suffocating, the kind Calixto doesn't find all too pleasing. Cal's nose is getting slaughtered by the stentch of those brutes, his poor eyes burning upon gazing at something hideous, and his body is ethereally crushed. It's strong enough to make a grown man wail in sorrow. The four bandits draw their weapons and step forward, only for Cal and Arthagus to take a few steps back. "Manners. Have none of you heard of it?" His eyebrows pull together while his free hand creeps into his bag to pull out his spellbook.

"I have enough of your games!" The 3rd spoke, lunging at him with such ferocity. Calixto sidesteps his attack and whips out his book with a swift motion of his hand. The 3rd man was surprised at his quickness and gave Calixto a vengeful stare. He smacks the man in the back of his head with said book. The force was strong enough to make the other man fall. He watches him fall to the ground face-first into the stream. "Patience, my good man. Your restlessness is what earned you a disciplinary smack. Now-" He got interrupted when Arthy stumbled over to the fallen man and jumped on his head. The griffin sits down on his as he did with him when he fell face-first into the stream.

"Good job, Arthy." A celebratory glint in his eyes, "Keep working on your drowning skills." Arthagus puffs out his chest, letting out a happy hoot. Hearing one of them rushing towards him, Cal opens his spellbook and shouts one of his spells. "Divine Shield!" An energy barrier of gold forms around the three. It was the 4rth bandit that tried to attack him next, only to be kissed by Cal's magical barrier. A wobble sound echoed far and wide throughout the forest, a snicker on Cal's face at the failure of these four men. "You guys sure you can kill me? Are you trying at all?" He was getting too cocky during his supposed battle, and that's one of his rookie mistakes.

Don't tease the people trying to kill you. It'll only make them psychotic.

Speaking of which, the 2nd one (who's most certainly a serial killer) snorts. "Useless rookies." Venom trickled in his words. Wait a second. The other two were rookies? Then what bloody Hell are the other two?!? The murderer removes the gloves from his right hand, tossing the glove on the ground without showing a slight bit of care to the particle of clothing. That action alone crushed Calixto's soul. That man is worse than a demon, and Cal's not afraid to say what's on his mind. "You blasted heathen! How dare you treat such a wonderful fabric like it's worth nothing!?!" The 2nd bandit grimly laughs, bringing his dagger to the palm of his hand, and cuts it. Not a second after, dark energy swirls around the masked man. It's making Cal sick to his stomach. He clenches the shaft tighter, and his body immediately was on the defensive.

He didn't felt this energy before; however, his angelic voice was yelling at him about what it was:

Dark Magic.

Oh, how today is Cal's unlucky day. His two-colored eyes watch as the dagger changes forms. Cal's face became pale as the small blade converted itself to a scythe. The man's blood covers the entirety of the edges of the blade. The Nephilim was getting hammered by the stench of blood and the dark magic swirling. By the second, it's getting harder to keep standing. His jaw clenches and his eyebrows meet once more on his paled face. He better not die to a bunch of nobodies. Not by simple side characters such as them. Arthagus is too afraid to move from his spot and gazes up at Calixto for reassurance. He hated doing this, but there was no choice. He's outnumbered by 1 to 4 until he removes the potential threats.

He twirls his weapon so that the blade is facing downwards. Pressing the tip against the other man's back, who's still on the ground. Cal turns his head away as he plunges the man into the back. He granted the man a quick death. That's all he can give him during this vital moment. The 2nd didn't care that his comrade was dead and went straight for the barrier. He sliced through the energy-filed with his eyes of a predator locked on Calixto's. Cal evades his attack only by a few inches and yanks Arthagus by the scruff to pull him back with him. Dropping the griffin as carefully as possible, "Go to the sidelines and hide!" Arthy does what's told and scrambles through the vegetation to hide. Arthagus didn't dare to argue with his friend. Calixto's eyes dart to the 1st man to see what he's doing. The 1st leaning against the tree with his arms crossed and staring hard at Calixto. The 4rth one who got knocked down by the barrier was sitting beside the 1st, looking down at the ground ashamed.

'Why weren't they joining? Why are they sitting there?'

"Focus on me, fool!"

His eyes snap back to the man he's fighting, only to see the scythe coming his way. He quickly raises his weapon to block the attack. The man's scythe cut his left cheek, and he could feel the blood burning his flesh. "You don't want to have some fun with me?" Cal has a look of shock on his face, and his mouth agape slightly. "No! You're a crazed monster! Why on Earth would I ever want to play with you!?!" The two were going toe-to-toe, with both men focused on each other. Arthagus watches on with concern in his eyes of blue, and he chirps worriedly for Cal's safety. Steadily, he starts to grow in size, yet only by a small amount.​

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  mood

  
  
  
  

  alert, curious, enjoying the fresh air
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  attire

  
  
  
  

  longsleeved black traveling dress tied with a rope at her waist

  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  location

  
  
  
  

  on the Main Road leading out of Colby
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  conversation

  
  
  
  

  Stan & Professor Hatkins ( Genii ), Xenophon ( Pokeking ), Adolphus ( Maxxob ), Calixto ( Astrophil )
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

FAIN

the chameleon

Baylin's Wall was much bigger than Fain had originally pictured in her mind. From the way that the locals spoke of its age, she assumed that it would have been waist-or-chest-high and crumbling into disrepair -- and although it was indeed decrepit, it was more formidable than she was expecting, and she felt slightly relieved that there was some sort of boundary between the Hunter's Inn and the monster-infested lands past the Wall.

Spurred on by the Professor's warning, she unsheathed the rapier from her hip and moved towards the arch in the stone wall, but before she crossed the barrier, she paused.

"What was that?"

she whispered, and put up a hand to signal to Stan to stop playing.

"Do you hear that?"

Fain listened for a moment further, and then...yes, it was definitely some sort of commotion coming a few hundred yards to the east, in a slew of trees too thick to see through and identify what exactly was making all the noise. Then, very faintly, she heard someone yell, "Go to the sidelines and hide!"

She swore, her voice habitually hushed from the strain on her ears, and she said,

"Someone is in trouble, and I think a child may be involved. Didn't you hear the instruction to go and hide? That wouldn't have been said to another person with fighting capabilities."

She was by no means a hero -- in fact, the idea that her reward and potential treasure would have to wait irritated her to no end -- but her conscience simply couldn't allow a child to get hurt while she knew about it and did nothing to stop it.

"Nerull, damn them all. We should go and help."

She faced her colleagues and the Professor and glanced at each of them in turn.

"What say you?"

♡coded by uxie♡

 

[Pokeking]

Xenophon yios Calix​

Location: You are now entering...the Wild Lands (ooc: sorry, I couldn't help myself. I played lots of Gauntlet Dark Legacy for the Game Cube.)
Interactions: Hatkins ( Genii ), Adolphus ( Maxxob ), Calixto and Arthagus ( Astrophil )


Xenophon's eyes darted to the wall. He had no knowledge of architecture, but could tell that the the barrier would need much attention. It would probably take a legion of our architects for a decade to restore it. Yes, he was biased. He felt that minotaurs made the best architects because that first generation was able to fashion sturdy temporary homes and important buildings within a few weeks of their arrival. Within 20 years, the only clue that their infrastructure was that old was by word of mouth and by the condition of the structures. Everything coordinated and constructed according to time honored tradition to replicate the environment they had left. Even those who remained in Asterion would easily be able to tell that minotaurs lived here.

He listened to Hatkins guide them to a tree and then at something resembling an arch. The Professor's cautionary tone caused Xenophon to tighten his grip on the baxtrix. He felt that only Adolphus would be able to pry his fingers off the staff. No longer was he holding it with one hand like an elder's walking stick. He was holding it at an angle with two hands, positioned just right should he need to unlock and battle with the two halves. Regardless, he was trained in both single and duel-wield having earned top marks. Among those in New Simeon, not many besides him had earned Rank 4 in the use of the baxtrix except his uncle who was Rank 5, the highest rating.

Speak softly? How about not speak at all. It was a lesson instilled in him some years back when he first accompanied his brother on patrol five years ago when he was 18 years. A firm voice, "Keep in mind how much and how loud you talk Scribe Xenophon. We are on patrol. This isn't some lively caravan chittering away to pass the time. We only talk when needed." His older brother had adopted a formal professional tone like their father. For the duration from the time they left New Simon to the time they would return, he wasn't just simply Xenophon. He was Scribe Xenophon.

The minotaur walked through the gap and Xenophon's light brown hide prickled. He tilted his head. Huh? What's this? It felt like magic, but his people were unfamiliar with the craft and he only knew of its touch because of King Jojin's monthly visits to the academy. He remembered his first encounter when the young monarch of 9 met with the first years. Back home, such a personage might have been accompanied by a pet. Not a person of the Jecong bloodline that wielded magic as if one might use a pen. The boy has a will-o'-wisp. The ball of light had an intelligence of about the same level as a dog. It didn't react much the other firsts, but was blinking rapidly when it met Xenophon and it was flying around him to. If it was a dog, it would be yipping and jumping up and down in excitement. The boy called out, "Yume, come on." The ball flew quickly to catch up with its master.

Soon, his feet stopped. He made gestures for the group to stop immediately and to stop all sound. Being a foreigner, he wasn't sure if they would recognize his signals so he amended with common hand signs: Raised hand and an index finger against his muzzle. His ears heard the sound of battle. Of the others, I'm sure Adolphus will readily recognize it.

Xenophon crept stealthily, surprising for someone of his size, to get a better view. One dead, two fighting each other, the others spectating...for some reason. Plus some type of predatory beast. Which of the two is just. Were none of them? One of them seemed handsome but allying himself automatically with that man was nonsense, but he had to make a decision. He pressed his index and middle finger to the middle of his forehead to invoke Calix. Blessed forebearer. Guide my heart. Who is without honor? The flame within him spoke. Sometimes, nonsense itself can be nonsense.

Xenophon signaled Adolphus and pointed at the man with the scythe then made a throat slitting motion. That's our opponent. He shifts his body weight to catapult himself. Another signal. It's a go.

Xenophon unlocked the two halves, one baton in each hand, and he springs forward with his feet to reveal himself. He charges forward and takes position next to the handsome man. The minotaur preferred peace, but his eyes burned with violent intent. If need be, he was ready to summon all the brutality in his being, like those in Asterion, in order to save this man's life.

(ooc: Not sure if it was intended to take action also, but here we go. Cue battle music.)

 

[Genii]

Stan gestured for the Professor to return. The Scholar looked both annoyed and anxious, but he did as requested - passing back through the archway and out of the Wild Lands.

“I’m guessing that’s a yes?” Stan comically stage-whispered to Fain as Xenophon moved towards the source of the scuffle.

The Bard kept Hatkins close and followed the Minotaur at a safe distance. Once they were near enough to the action (and ignoring any protests), he pulled the learned man into a bush.

 

[Maxxob]

Adolphus
Interactions: Everyone

​

With each step, Adolphus heard branches breaking under his greaves due to his sheer weight. Not only that, but as the zealot trampled into the woody terrain, his feet were forced against the ground, leaving perfect footprints behind him. Any mediocre tracker would be able to follow it, however the man appeared to show little to not care for them. As he approached the uninviting arch, that led them outside the decrepit wall’s limit, a strange, yet faint sensation came upon the man. Like a whisper, something signalled into his very core - “Prepare yourself” - and, always, he heeded to it, doubling his attention.

Due to Xenophon’s warning, the steel wall suddenly came to a halt. His attention directed to the sounds coming at the distance - “Hah! Finally! I was growing weary without any action” - those thoughts permeated the religious man’s mind, and he was, indeed, pretty glad that there was battle to be had. And, while the minotaur made his best to move in concealed to have a better view of what was happening, that was not the case for the crusader, stepping into full view as he scanned the makeshift battlefield.

One, on the ground, dead as far as the zealot could notice. Two man were squaring off against each other: one armed with a scythe, while the other with a book, possibly a grimoire. Not only that, two other men were watching, not joining the fight just yet. More likely than not, if they joined the man that was by himself, certainly the others would join - “The more, the merrier”. And, to Xenophon’s signal, Adolphus charged towards the man holding a scythe in his hands. The steel wall, however, didn’t position himself as minotaur did. He positioned himself to the man’s side, flanking him.

Raising his fanged mace to the skies - “Miraculum, prsesidium tuum da nobis!” - he shouted, his grave voice echoing through his helmet. A bright yellowish light flashed from the very tip of his mace, dissipating into small rays towards his allies, including the hidden gryphon. A faint aura of the same very color involved all of them, but Adolphus himself, which sported a much stronger and brighter one. It appeared that, in the end, the Miracle indeed played favorites. His eyes were then locked towards the man holding the slicing weapon.

If his eyes could have been seen, they would show that the zealot was devoid of any good intentions, his mind focused only in the combat ahead of him. With his shield in front of his body, he advanced towards his target, measuring him up and watching for any sudden movements. He twirled the mace on his head, clearly ready to bash the man’s skull in, as soon as he got into close range.

 

[Genii]

“You’re… glowing.” The voice of Hatkins gasped in awe from the bushes.

“Why thank you.” Stan’s voice hummed back, clearly flattered by the unexpected compliment.

“No, you’re quite literally glowing.” The Professor’s voice clarified. “Look, man.”

“Oh…” Stan’s voice fell silent for a moment before adding, “Well this is exciting!”

((I just wanted to post that quickly before heading to bed and events moved on. Night all! I’ll catch up in the morning. ))

 

[soulofeden]

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  mood

  
  
  
  

  alert, nervous, ready for battle
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  attire

  
  
  
  

  longsleeved black traveling dress tied with a rope at her waist

  
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  location

  
  
  
  

  in the Forest, in combat
  

  
  
  

  
  
  
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  conversation

  
  
  
  

  Stan & Professor Hatkins ( Genii ), Xenophon ( Pokeking ), Adolphus ( Maxxob ), Calixto ( Astrophil )
  

  
  
  

  
  
  

FAIN

the chameleon

Fain nodded fleetingly at Stan's stage-whisper, appreciative of the response, and then gripped her rapier tighter and trotted after Xenophon and Adolphus. The foliage on the ground began to grow heavier the further into the forest they went, and she knew that it took away any element of surprise that they might have had if all members of their party were familiar with the use of stealth -- but with a bard, a scholar, and a man in a heavy suit of armor as part of their group, it seemed that luck was simply not on their side.

As they approached the commotion and the assailants came into view, she realized she wasn't sure who she'd previously heard calling out. Which of these people needed defending? Adrenaline picked up in her brain and her pulse began to thrum upon noticing the dead body on the ground in between the other more lively men -- blood had already been spilled. She felt the color drain from her face and knew that it wasn't fear that caused her to pale, but nerves. It had been quite a while since she'd been in an altercation that could mean life or death, and the realization was a sensation that she was certain she would never get used to.

Two other men stood outside of the clash, their eyes only on the fighting pair. Have they not noticed us yet? Surely we didn't still have the element of surprise?

If they had indeed had that advantage, it was gone now -- Adolphus raised his arms and called out some chant in a language that she was unfamiliar with, and now their position was revealed. This was to be a battle of might, a numbers game -- and she still wasn't quite sure of which side she was fighting on. As Adolphus charged, she decided that it would be wise to hang back, her muscles tensed and ready to spring, and strike when the most advantageous opportunity arose. An opening will reveal itself any moment now -- be ready.

♡coded by uxie♡

 

[Pokeking]

Xenophon yios Calix​

Location: Wild Lands
Reactions: Stan, Hatkins ( Genii ), Adolphus ( Maxxob ), Bandits ( Astrophil )

Xenophon was only mildly aware of what Stan had said. Something about yes? Yes to what? He put the thought to the side to focus on this unexpected and grim diversion. He hated the though of leaving Hatkins's side, but the thought of leaving a possibly ally behind to die sickened him. Especially one who appears to be unarmed. What would Mistress Beryl say? He knew that it would sully the honor of the Guild if the town learned that an innocent died and they had looked the other way.

His deep blue eyes darted like dragonflies on the meadow. He had expected Adolphus to join in because out of all those he had met, he seemed to be the most similar in temperament to his people. However, he was not expecting this. What sorcery is this? The eerie glow nearly snapped his focus in half. If he had been anywhere else doing whatever else, his focus would have broken. Engaged as he was, his nostrils simply flared. He readily recognized the power in Adolphus's hand as he wielded the mace. He understood it. He cherished it. Baxtrix or his bare hands, his response would be the same. He hoped that these others would get the idea and run, but he wasn't counting on it. Images of driving one baton into the chest and then slamming the head with the other baton filed his mind. Of course it might not even get to that if he managed to crack a few ribs and the opponent fell to the ground. Perhaps sheath the batons and go for the hands on approach? He always enjoyed grappling with his peers clothed only in underpants and kilts. He studied the bandits and was ready for any movement that signaled resistance. He could almost pity them if they did.

 

[Astrophil]

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Calixto and ArthagusInteractions: The four masked men and the surprise party by a bunch of strangers
Stan, Hatkins Genii - Adolphus Maxxob - Xenophon Pokeking
Location: Random Woods

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He expected many things, but this? His eyes blink in confusion, having a glance over to the minotaur. "Huh," the only few words to leave his lips that typically ramble on. I guess this is what being an adventurer is like: always expect the most randomness of things to happen on the road. The Nephilim was unsure which side they were joining, and his eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"Are you guys with these hooligans?"

Oh, Gods. He's starting to sound like cranky old man Jenkins back at his village. Who in the right mind says hooligans? Ducking when a blade was close to giving his neck a loving kiss. "Hey, watch it! I'm trying to talk to the others here! Can we hold off on killing me for five minutes?" He snapped toward the man with the scythe, yet he was unbothered by the new arrivals. His eyes are on Calixto like a hungry predator.

"Vesh. Distract the new arrivals. I want to have a word with the new arrivals."

Hold on a moment? Vesh? That was the psychopath's name? Not a name like Razor? or Crazy? Or maybe, Dragon-Eater? Vesh was this guy's name? Cal's lips tighten, and his eyes start to water. His shoulders shake as he holds back laughter. "Vesh. Your name is Vesh?" His laughter bursts the damn of lips, which echoes throughout the woods. "I feel bad for you, Vesh! With a name like that, I'll surely die of embarrassment!" His stomach starts to hurt, but for once, it wasn't by a weapon. "Yes, please, Vesh. Return to your beloved sire." He could feel Vesh's murder-eyes on him, yet Cal didn't seem too concerned about that. Vesh is about to charge at him again, but a firm hand on his left shoulder stops him. Vesh turned his head to face the taller man, and before he got the chance to say anything, he got flung towards the new arrivals with ease.

Calixto's jaw dropped, and his joyous moment was gone. "Well, this party is fun, but I should get going."

"Hold on a moment, Angel-Boy." Such sultry words flowed into Cal's ears, and before he could turn around, he felt a large hand grip his shoulders. The tall man took off his mask with his free hand. His amber eyes held firmly with Cal's, and a dashing smile etched across his face. "I want to have a moment with you." His tone full of warmth and oddly dominating. Cal cannot move, silently obeying the voice of the other. The taller man blinks once, then twice, and finally, the final third time. There, his eyes changed: cat-like eyes piercing the man's spirit. His grip on his shoulder tightens, his fingernails growing longer by the second. He digs his forming claws into Calixto's cloth, then his skin. For whatever reason, his throat was hurting. His eyes can't look away. Internally, his body started to cramp at the unbearing increasing tightness.

"You mocked me, Angel-Boy. So I'll take what's yours."

With a flick of his wrist, the man's smile only grew. His eyes patiently waited for Calixto's reaction.

He grew cold, and his body was wet for whatever reason. The left side of his body felt lighter-it felt like something was missing. His breathing came to an abrupt stop. The nose on his face trying to block out that putrid stench. A frequence he finds disgusting.

Blood.

His blood.

Calixto didn't dare to look at the result. He jumps back once his mind yelled at him to move. His hand holding his grave injury, and his eyes filled with sickness and anger were towards the taller man. However, the two-colored eyes did look to see what he was holding, and yes, it was something he immediately recognized. "This whole encounter cost me an arm, next, my leg." He bit back through clenched teeth-his whole mood grew sour. Calixto mutters another word, "Sacred Mist!" A thick fog forms around him. Seconds later, it covers the entirety of the battlefield. The fog separates the three men from each other. Three fields for three men, it should be easier for everyone, well, hopefully.​

 

[Genii]

Stan was so focused on the fight (or fights) he’d failed to notice that he and the Professor had company. He glanced to his left and it took a moment for his brain to register what he’d seen…

“G-griffin!” He jumped in surprise, startling poor Hatkins in the process. He reached for the short sword on his belt (a loaner from the lost and found box back at the guild), but as he gallantly unsheathed the weapon… it appeared to be missing its blade.

He checked in the scabbard. No sword to be found. The Bard had borrowed a handle.

“Oh, come on!” Stan threw his arms in the air in frustration, before grabbing and holding out his lute defensively. “Stay back beast!”

 

[Astrophil]

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ArthagusInteractions: Stan, Hatkins Genii
Location: Random Woods

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The griffin was watching the fight, unaware of its increase in size. His source of entertainment was interrupted when someone called him a beast. He tilts his head in the direction of the shout, only for them to meet two unfamiliar men. His eyes widen in surprise before jumping on all fours, with the fur on his back rising. Making himself appear bigger to scare them away. Only to stop when he noticed the sudden height change. Eyes of blue observe his body, then his surroundings. Arthagus is confused about what happened to him, and he checks himself out for a couple of more seconds before fixating his orbs on the two frightened men. Yes, he could have fun with their fear.

He approaches them with caution, giving a thorough sniff of the two men's scent, and raises a singular paw their way.

Boop.

He pokes the blonde man in the chest, staring at him with brightened eyes. His tail swished behind him, the fur on his body relaxing. The next thing the griffin did, was shoved said blonde down on the ground without hesitation. The chimera watches the other strange man before flopping down on the blonde-haired stranger. He was careful with putting his newly additive weight on the stranger-a purr rumbling deep in his throat. His paws wrap around the fallen man, using his beak to play with his hair.

He stares at the professor with a hostile glare, daring him to keep away from them while they bond.​