Fantasy Light In The Darkness (IC thread)

[Clockwork Syringe]

Sildar listened as everyone talked and how Monica and Swee got to know each other, but what piqued his interest was what Swee had said about dreams, hopes, and aspirations. Taking another drink before he walked over, he also took note of how Merva was going to head over to the marketplace to gather supplies. Clearing his throat, Sildar turned and spoke directly at Swee. "Hope indeed is how everything starts Swee," Sildar began. "Never lose sight of it because the moment we lose hope it takes more to regain it." Turning to address Merva Sildar started. "Smart move Merva, we should definitely be prepared."
Gen LumaThePhoenix Peckinou

 

[LegoLad659]

Palace Water Fountain
Gen LumaThePhoenix Peckinou Clockwork Syringe
​

Catherine thought it strange that they were allowed anywhere near the water fountain in the palace. It was certainly a beautiful centerpiece, and admittedly something that would be hard to make away with. And the guards clearly had a close eye on it as well, probably making sure it wasn't poisoned with anything. Although admittedly there could still be a number of ways to sneak such a tactic by them, which was why she didn't take any for herself. If it was poisoned by someone, she'd find out by the others' reactions to it. If not, then it wasn't a huge loss. It wasn't like she couldn't get pure water from any other source.

She sat at the edge of the fountain as she listened to the others speak to each other. It was mostly Swee and Monica talking very optimistically to each other, with Sildar throwing in his two copper as well. Catherine only wished her own life could be as bright. But when you've been doing nothing but stealing food, gold, and valuables from people for nearly seven years, people tend to assume you're not interested in the change Swee was talking about. Which was really Catherine's problem in the first place. She'd had to steal from others just to survive, which got her marked as a criminal, so automatically nobody trusted her. And in turn that lack of trust forced her to steal even more, feeding an endless cycle that this job was really her only hope of breaking out of.

Hmm, hope. Just like Sildar mentioned. She had to admit, Catherine had been the Blue Fox for so long that she'd long since left any hope of returning to a normal life behind. Not that she had a great amount of it now, because she was still literally right at the army's doorstep and they could try to take her in at any time. There was still plenty of reason to suspect this of being a trap. But for the first time in a long time, when she heard that proclamation on the street, she had to admit she'd felt just a little spark again. Otherwise she wouldn't have even been here in the first place.

Still, there was one thing she felt like should be added "Hope is fine and all, but it's not gonna solve all your problems on its own." She spoke up "Sure, it'll get you going. But it's not easy to get everything you want. You've still gotta work for it, a lot. Maybe even for your whole life, in some cases. Hope's good, but it's only helpful if you have the determination and strength to match."

 

[Gen]

Palace Water Fountain​

“I won’t lose sight of it,” Swee said to Sildar, agreeing and taking his advice. She was still amazed that they had been put on the same team as the renowned Professor. “I have hope that the Kelaran Imperium will survive, and I’m sure you do too. I don’t think it will be easy, fighting off the Red Goblin Empire… but it can be done. That’s the important thing, right?” After their conversation, Swee turned to Merva, and gave her a small nod and wave. “Okay, Merva. We’ll see you at the City Gates.”

Swee only realized Catherine was standing beside her when the girl spoke up. She jumped. The Blue Fox was indeed stealthy, and somehow, Swee understood that the girl hadn’t even meant to sneak up on her like that.

When Catherine finished giving her perspective about hope, Swee was left with a stumped look on her face. “I suppose… that’s true… yeah,” she said, a little too quietly. It was not that she didn’t mind working hard, and it was not that she didn’t understand the struggles of making ends meet. But somehow, she just could not imagine Swee Hearth having that kind of inner strength that Catherine had talked about so matter-of-factly.

Even right now, Swee was well aware that she was standing besides three well known figures. What was Swee Hearth, compared to the Professor of Gilgamesh Tower, the Blue Fox, and the Siren of the Blackwater? she thought. And although she was less intimidated by Monica for this reason, she figured that Monica no doubt also had her own formidable powers.

But at least she had Mercy, right? Swee always felt more confident in herself when he was there to support her. As long she had him, she knew she could do this.

 

[Trektek]

The City Gates
Gen , Clockwork Syringe , LumaThePhoenix , Peckinou , LegoLad659

As the group made their way to the city gates, other teams could be seen lingering about or doing last minute preparations. Most of the other groups seemed to be taking things seriously, whether they viewed it as an opportunity at a fresh start in life, or just a money grab to get themselves set for life, there was much preparation to be had. The guards at the city gate seemed to be a bit lax in watching the goings, but still seemed to be vigilant on making sure that those who entered the city limits were authorized, not wanting anyone to enter and cause chaos during this tumultuous time.

Some of the guards were even giving much needed advice to the younger adventurers who looked nervous about their tasks. The obvious over worked nature of the guards however could be obviously seen. Their efforts were focused on the city itself, with large numbers being about. The smaller towns and settlements of the Imperium must be understaffed and given the general level of chaos that needed this many to step up and help, it shows that the help will be needed if the Imperium is to stand up to the tide of The Red Goblin Empire.

Looking around, it seems as though a few members of Team 13 did not make it to the gate. Whether it was because they had second thoughts about the task at hand, or just didn't want to help the Imperium, perhaps the group would never know. All that they knew was that these gates were their last stop at civilization for a time. If they needed any last minute supplies, there were a few market stalls parked out near the gate for just such an occasion, though with slightly marked up prices. And a few entertainers were performing, dancing and singing. Almost as though one last hurrah before venturing out into the wilderness.​

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

As soon as everyone made it to the gate Sildar took an immediate headcount of everyone present. He then became immedately aware that several people were missing from the original meeting; the harpy, the soldiers, and worst of all Captain Mercy himself. ~Where the hell is Mercy?~ Sildar thought to himself. He could understand why the soldiers and the harpy may or may not be here, the former were probably reassigned and the later was probably not interested anymore. Still, that left him with Swee, Monica, Merva, and the blue fox. Suddenly he made a startling discovery, Sildar was the only male member of the team left and was surrounded by female team members. A ghost of a panicked look appeared quickly, but disappeared just as quickly as he steeled himself against the inevitable jokes that would result from this either fortunate or unfortunate make up depending on whom he asked or who noticed. Clearing his throat Sildar began. "It seems we are short a few people, doesn't look like they were interested in this deal after all; thats very unfortunate. However, I have full faith in everyone who is standing here and their abilities. Is there anything else that we need to take care of or should we head off?"

LumaThePhoenix Gen Peckinou LegoLad659

 

[LegoLad659]

City Gates
Clockwork Syringe LumaThePhoenix Gen Peckinou
​

Catherine counted everyone out at the same time as Sildar, realizing the same thing. Sildar had voiced his concerns about this, and Catherine was quick to respond "That's not surprising. The deal sounds like it's too good to be true, and so some of them must've decided that it was. The rest of us just have to deal with the rest ourselves." She said, looking around at who was left "...Although, what I am surprised about, is that Captain Mercy didn't take his crew with him." She added, noting that the Captain was the only member of the Blackwater crew missing. She eyed Merva and Swee pointedly as she continued speaking "I wonder if he even told them he was leaving? Either they're disloyal and decided not to go with him, or he doesn't care and simply didn't say anything to them before sneaking out. He definitely wasn't captured in any case, because not only would there have been a huge commotion in trying to arrest him, but to take him and none of the other famous criminals in our group is uncharacteristic of the Imperium." She reasoned, mostly aloud to herself. If she was going to be working together with this group, they'd need to know everything she knows, after all.

Then Sildar asked about if there was anything else they needed to do, to which Catherine said nothing in response. Any business she needed to do here was already taken care of by the time she came to the palace.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia
Palace Gates​

The metaphorical eye of the hurricane was a bit relaxing for Monica. She listened as her comrades nearby conversed. They seemed to be getting along. Their bonds grew just a little tighter with every passing word despite their differing viewpoints on hope and other things. The nurse decided it was better to listen than to speak for the moment so she can get a better feel of how the others interact with each other. With everyone who needed to fill their water skins having done so, all that's left to do is meet back up with those still in Room 13 and prepare to head off. A final stop for supplies wouldn't hurt either. Monica had already gathered what she needed before reaching the Palace, but she couldn't just assume the same about her teammates. Who knows, maybe the ones who didn't go with the first group already got their supplies and were waiting to get the show on the road.

However, Monica was in for a shock when they reached the entrance. She looked around at the various supply areas. There she spotted useful things that were for sale at higher prices. Of course this would make sense from a business standpoint to try to get that last bit of extra income before the adventures set off. Regardless, it didn't sit well with the pink-haired woman. She worried about those who were already poor potentially changing their minds because they couldn't afford some of the supplies they needed. Hopefully, those in charge would find it in their hearts to help them get on their feet first financially before they began charging the full, inflated prices. It was then that she turned to her allies. While Monica wasn't obscenely rich, her job as a nurse, and growing reputation of being a rising star in the medical industry, helped her reach financial stability. That stability was almost bittersweet. While she would likely help any of her teammates out as best as she could if the lacked the funding for something, she quickly turned her head away from the different shops. It may sound like a bit of overexaggerating, but she was afraid that if she went to help out one of the people at the shop, she would feel compelled to help them all to avoid leaving anyone out. On top of that, if it turns out that she couldn't help everybody, she would feel just as guilty, so she tried to push the thought away and focus on her allies from Room 13.

Wait a minute. Where were the rest of her allies? There were people all around the gate, but none from her team. What happened? A few moments was all it took for Monica to realize that she won't be heading out with everyone that she was in the room with. Some of them had left the group for whatever reason. The soldiers were missing. The harpy may have flown off due to not wanting to work with others. Overall, the absence of Captain Mercy is what caught the half-mermaid off guard, and apparently she wasn't the only one. It seems the others were coming to the same realization. Sildar definitely looked shocked by this. Well, he seemed surprised for at least for a second or two at the most before attempting to regain his composure. It was like he had seen a ghost. Curious, Monica's eyes travelled around, but it didn't appear that anything paranormal was happening. No ghouls, just girls. Hold up. Her eyes widened slightly as she thought to herself.

JUST GIRLS!? That has to be a bit awkward, even for a teacher of his experience. Even if he may have taught an all-female class at any point in his career, it's still different from fighting along side a group of ladies with no other male to bond with. I'll try not to bring it up. I don't want him to feel uncomfortable around us.

Monica then heard Sildar speak about the missing people. He kept his words short and sweet while doubling down on his faith in those that remained. A bold move indeed. In a sense, he almost has to believe in the rest of the team. It's a bit demoralizing to have part of your group vanish before your first mission, especially if you're given the title of leader of said group. Hopefully, everyone else will stay the course. The one that called herself Blue Fox also voiced her opinion on the situation. She was also straight to the point, but she didn't pull any punches. Her argument was...harsh, but solid. Alas, Monica takes a deep breath and decides to toss in a few statements of her own. Her voice surprisingly carries a bit of confidence.

"While it is unfortunate that we've lost some of our team already, I believe you are both correct about many people's feelings about this opportunity. It was inevitable that out of a massive horde of people that showed up, a few would have second thoughts, especially in a situation like this. Some of them may have thought that the reward wasn't worth the risk. Still, that just shows that those of us that are here are willing to fight onward because the reward IS worth the risk and then some." She pauses for a second and slightly turns her head away from the group. Her voice lowers slightly as she tries to piece together the reasoning as to why Mercy left. "As for Mercy, I...I'm not exactly sure why he left. If Blue is right about him not telling the rest of his crew that he was leaving, then there must be some reasoning behind it. My guess is that he started feeling homesick...sea sick? However you want to phrase it. I think he missed the oceans and decided he'd rather be there than on land. As for why he didn't say anything before he left, maybe he's bad at saying goodbye. Plus, he knows that Swee and Merva won't be alone here. This could be his way of saying that he trusts them to look out for each other and that he trusts us to all be able to work together. I believe we can. I believe we can win this fight. Not just for ourselves, but also for those who need us, those who love us, and those we've lost along the way." Monica softly bites her lip and quietly takes a deep breath. It was easy to miss, but her voice was shaky when she said that last sentence. Then, she looks back at the group. "I have everything that I believe I'll need for our journey. Forgive me if I sound a bit in a hurry, but I'm ready to go if you all are."

Honestly, Monica was uncertain as to why her now former teammates had left, but she had to at least come up with some sort of positive reasoning. Even if she was the only one that believed it, it was her way of trying to convince herself that everyone still there made the right choice. Part of her was nervous. There were even a few hints of fear within her. Still, she tried to keep that fear hidden so that she doesn't risk worrying others. She wasn't sure how Swee would take the news of Mercy leaving, so she stayed close in case the girl needed comfort.

 

[Trektek]

The Grimoire Forest
LumaThePhoenix , Clockwork Syringe , LegoLad659
The group eventually decided to move on to their objective, heading out to the Grimoire forest in order to stop the Goblin Warlord known as Dirken who has been threatening the destruction of the friendly and peaceful Marbourette Tribe of Goblins. Along the way, they discover that the two remaining members of the BlackWater crew are not with them. Perhaps they all decided that the risk was not worth the reward and wished to go back to their piracy ways instead of working directly for the Imperium.

All that could be known is that the group now numbers three. Sildar Evans, the powerful magic teacher from Gilgamesh Tower that was given leadership of the group by the Emperor himself, Monica Battaglia, the half human-mermaid nurse who was held prisoner of the Red Goblins and has a grudge to settle and Catherine Terra aka The Blue Fox, a thief that has joined the cause for the rewards.

They soon enough approach the forest by nightfall. It looks ominous in the dark, but the soft glow of an approaching torch being wielded from a small figure, a goblin.

"Hello travelers. My name is Ilen from the Marbourette tribe. Are you the heroes that we were told would be coming?" Before even waiting for them to respond he starts waving them to follow him. "Come this way to the village. You can rest there for your journey." The small green goblin leads the group at what would be a slow pace for him, but was still very quick through the inner workings of the forest, ducking and weaving through various foliage before arriving at a small village built into the trees and nearby slight hillwork of the ground.

"Welcome to our village, great and powerful heroes. If you sit by the fire, we will bring you some food."

A bonefire illuminated the center of the village where the goblins were clearly expecting them as they were already beginning to put on a dance with tribal music as soon as they came over. The huts and buildings looked primitive and the guards looked as though they wielded light short bows and bronze short swords. Anyone who sat by the bonfire would be presented with grilled fish and vegetables with a glass of light mead

Looking around, away from the festivities one would be able to spot a human woman in full plate, leaning up against one of the buildings, looking on at the party, clearly not the party type.​

 

[LegoLad659]

Goblin Village
Trektek Clockwork Syringe LumaThePhoenix​

Catherine started to grow concerned as their party continued to thin out inexplicably. It made her question the loyalty of the remaining party members as they made their journey to the goblin village, where they seemed to be expecting them. Catherine herself didn't say anything to the goblins, she left that to the other two, but she did make note of the armored woman watching them. Her eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly as the two made eye contact for a brief moment before Catherine joined her group in whatever they did next, though she kept aware of what the woman was doing at all times.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia
Palace Gates ===> The Grimoire Forest ===> Goblin Village​

Trektek LegoLad659 Clockwork Syringe

As the remaining members of room 13 dropped to 3, Monica was worried that the other two would leave as well. She pushed the thought away so that she could cling to the hope of their unity. It was a feint light in a world of darkness. The sun was gone for the day. Nightfall had arrived to add a bit of an unnerving aura to the forest. Monica stuck close to the others as she constantly looked around for signs of a potential ambush. She found none, but the trio did come across a small goblin holding a torch. He told them his name was Ilen and asked if they were the heroes sent to help them. Before Monica, or Sildar and Blue Fox, could answer, he was already inviting them to follow him. The nurse found this a bit odd. Why would he automatically assume that three strangers arriving would be helping him without at least trying to confirm that they are? Could this be a trap, or maybe it's how the other goblins were able to attack them, by taking advantage of their kindness? Monica shook her head a little and put the thoughts on the back burner for now, giving Ilen the benefit of the doubt.

When they reached the village, it seemed wholesome. There were goblins waiting to present them with food and festivities. It was like they were at a luau or something. The guards stood in the distance with their weapons armed. Everything in the area looked inviting and relaxing. Well, all except one. A human woman. Monica spotted her while she was visually exploring the scenery. Her suspicions suddenly resurfaced as she began thinking to herself.

Hold on. If Ilen said that Blue, Sildar, and myself were the heroes that would be coming, then who is she? Is she the one that called us? No. I doubt it. If that were the case, she would've greeted us by now unless she's trying to see if we're the heroes in question first. Hmmm, maybe I should just go talk to her before I fill my head up with questions, but first, I have to eat. That journey sure worked up an appetite.

Monica makes her way towards the bonfire and takes a seat. She watched as one of the goblins brought her food. There was a glass of light mead, some vegetables, and grilled.....FISH!? Monica immediately declines the fish and instead asked for it to be replaced with more vegetables. "I'm sorry. I don't eat fish." she says modestly. She then looks back at Blue and Sildar and speaks softly to them. "I think I'll go introduce myself to the lady over there if that's okay with you two. I don't want to make things uncomfortable while you're eating. I just can't eat what I am." Monica doesn't want to make the meal awkward for Sildar, Blue, or the goblins. She hopes that her teammates can understand what she meant by her last sentence in that she doesn't eat fish because she's part fish.

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Sildar Evans​

Sildar became increasingly concerned as his teammates dropped leaving only himself, Monica, and the Blue Fox. Steeling himself and not showing any signs of duress, Sildar continued to march on to the village while also keeping an eye on his surroundings. Night was beginning to show itself, but thanks to his Draconic Heritage he would be able to see in the dark unlike his compariots. All the more reason to keep an eye as to avoid getting them hurt.

Eventually the group made it to the Marbourette tribe and were introduced to Ilen, no doubt a representative of said tribe. He then led the group all the way to his village that was nestled in the forest where a rather large bonfire awaited them with what looked to be a celebration. No doubt they were expecting them, but Sildar decided to not upset the current mood as to question them how they learned so quickly. When they arrived at the bonfire one individual stood out to him, a woman wearing full plate armor. Who was she? She didnt look to be in the same classification as Sildar and his companions as they were addressed as heroes. Still, he had no doubt that she would reveal her intentions soon enough. Sitting down at the bonfire, Sildar was presented with a glass of light mead and some grilled fish. Just as he was about to take a bite out of the fish, Monica suddenly stuttered. She explained that she could not eat what she was and didn't want to make Sildar and the Blue Fox uncomfortable. A silent involuntary "Oh that makes sense" escaped from his mouth before he realized his mistake. Shrugging, Sildar then took a bite out of the fish exposing his rather large and elongated canines as he bit into the fish.

Trektek LumaThePhoenix LegoLad659

 

[LegoLad659]

Catherine Terra
Trektek LumaThePhoenix Clockwork Syringe ​

Catherine opted not to eat the food that was given to them, instead eating the rations they'd brought with them. Not that she thought that the goblins poisoned the food they gave them, she was just so used to not taking the chance that it was a force of habit by this point. She continued to watch the woman nearby, but that didn't mean she wasn't paying attention to her teammates either - Monica's comment about not wanting to eat things that were the same as her earned her an odd look from the Blue Fox. Admittedly, Catherine had never seen a Mermaid before. But she was pretty sure they looked at little less humanoid, with the whole fish-tail thing. But she couldn't think of another creature that could be defined as a fish, which also looked Human.

What caught her attention more than that though, was when Sildar bit into his own food. She noticed that his teeth seemed... Far sharper than an average Human's. If not all of them, then some of them certainly. As far as she or anyone else knew, he was just Human... It seemed like he had a secret he was hiding from them as well. Of course, not that she blamed him. She hadn't even shared her real name with them, and she didn't intend to either. If it was something he'd prefer to keep hidden, then she wouldn't press the issue. At least, not now, anyway. She would certainly keep it in mind for if she needed to use that little bit of information she'd caught in the future.

She tried not to stare at Sildar too much as she ate.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia​

LegoLad659 Clockwork Syringe
Interaction: Trektek

With Blue eating from the rations she brought and Sildar ripping through the fish with his ferociously sharp teeth, Monica stands up and makes her way to the armored lady in the distance. She was cautious with the speed in which she walked at even though it was at a normal pace. If she walked too slowly, it would look like she's trying to sneak up on the woman. If she walked too fast, the woman might think she's trying to ambush her or something. Monica stops a few feet away from her so that she's at a safe enough distance to react if the woman tries to strike her.

"I take it you're not too big on festivities?" Monica asked and then smiled a friendly smile before continuing. "I'm Monica, what's your name?" Being a nurse made Monica a bit better at interacting with people despite her shy nature. Whenever she met someone new, she made sure to introduce herself and ask the other person(s) about themselves. She had been taught that showing interest and treating people kindly makes it easier to get to know them and could even turn someone's bad day into a good one. Monica wasn't 100% sure what side the woman was on nor did she know why she would be here, but it's worth the risk of trying to find out.

 

[Trektek]

LumaThePhoenix , Clockwork Syringe , LegoLad659

The armored woman watched as Monica approached at a normal pace with a wide and friendly smile. She might think that there was some sort of ulterior motive behind those lips and teeth, but that wasn't the sort of vibe that she was getting from the woman before her. It was too genuine with a kindness that only came from actual god given friendliness and caring.

She gave a smirk as of the spoken words and responded with a bit of a husky voice as she moved her arms across her chest with the clinking and clanking of her armor as she moved. It seemed as though based on her armor that she was a front line fighter of sorts and not at all the sneaky type. Monica's eyes might go towards the sheathed longsword at her side or even to the glimpse of a shield across her back.

"No, I'm really not a party type of girl." She held out her hand to give a shake and if accepted, would grab up to the forearm in a greeting that was clearly the type to check if the person if both people had hidden blades anywhere on their arms.

"Names Suva Pyrewalker. I can tell that you lot are the heroes that they were expecting. In case your wondering, I'm not. I'm a mercenary that they hired to try to keep them safe from those other goblins."

--------------------------

The dancing continued and the food kept being passed around to them until the decided that they had had enough of it. It seemed that these goblins were being preemptively grateful for the task at hand. The dancing around the bonefire continued before them, with changing in the music, tempo and style as time passed.

Ilen sits next to the pair that remained at the bonfire, getting himself comfy and mushing into the dirt a bit as he sat down. He smiles up at the pair before beginning to speak. "I hope that you heroes are feeling appreciated. We want you to know how much we really appreciate you coming to help us out with Dirken."

 

[LegoLad659]

Catherine Terra
Trektek Clockwork Syringe LumaThePhoenix​

Catherine looked around at the party as Ilen spoke, looking a bit unimpressed, which really was for one simple reason "Isn't this a bit presumptuous? What makes you think we're actually going to succeed?" She asked, with a... Small hint of suspicion. Either the goblins were being preemptive... Or they knew something Group 13 didn't. And if Catherine's experience is anything to go by, it's always the latter.

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Sildar Evans
LegoLad659 LumaThePhoenix Trektek​

Sildar was enjoying his grilled fish when Ilen approached Blue Fox and himself to ensure that the pair felt as though they were being appreciated and that they were referred to as heroes. Sildar was about to speak up when Fox did so first; she explained how just because the Goblins were assuming that they would win doesn't mean that they would. It was at this question that Sildar put down the empty stick that the fish & vegetables had been housed on. Taking a deep breath, Sildar started. "I agree with my companion here assumptions are dangerous if blindly followed. I'm not saying that I don't have competence in my abilities, after all I am a teacher of various subjects including magic. What I am saying is that just because we are accomplished, doesn't make us heroes. We still will help you, don't get me wrong Ilen, it's just that caution is advised. It's all well and good to have competence in your abilities and believe that your cause will succeed, but you need to temper that idealism with a sense of realism. Its the only way that you are prepared if things do not go the way you planned." Sildar of course was speaking from personal experience from when he fully transformed the last time over two decades ago. He did cause the bandits that were attacking a village to surrender, but it also scared the villagers as well. He would avoid scaring those who he helped if he could from that point on; it was also the reason why he hadn't fully transformed since then.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia​

Trektek LegoLad659 Clockwork Syringe

Monica felt a sense of relief when Suva stated that she's a mercenary. That explained why she wasn't mentioned by Ilen as one of the heroes like they were. Perhaps they were aware of the team's sudden and sharp drop in numbers and felt the need to hire a mercenary. This led Monica to think that the enemy goblins could be high in quantity. She didn't ponder it too long as she noticed the merc reaching out for a handshake. Monica kindly accepted and grabbed her arm as well. She knew a few businessesmen that would grab or tap someone's arm while shaking their hand and thought it was just a sign of trust or friendliness. The nurse had no idea it could also be used to check for hidden weapons and would likely be surprised for a second if she felt a hidden knife. Not because the woman's a mercenary, but because Monica isn't expecting it. As for herself, she had nothing up her sleeves to hide. As the handshake happened, Monica caught a glance at the mercenary's blade. No doubt she was a frontline warrior, which made it fair to assume that the object on her back was likely a shield to help balance offense and defense.

"Pleased to meet you, Suva. Glad to have you here. I'm not much of a frontline brawler, but I am a nurse. So if you fall down, I can pick you back up." Monica took a quick look at the other goblins and how they were celebrating. Then, she focused her vision on Suva. "It's nice seeing them so joyous and confident in us, but we don't completely know what we're up against. I wonder if those other goblins have a pattern to their attacks."

 

[Trektek]

Suva Pyrewalker
LumaThePhoenix , Clockwork Syringe , LegoLad659

She raised an eyebrow at the mention of her profession. How often was it that a healer was on the battlefield, but an actual nurse, a medical professional that worked with herbs and physical healing rather than relying on magical healing. That alone was an interesting concept. Of course, she was just throwing out supposition. After all, someone could still call themselves a nurse if they used magic to heal. It was on the unlikely side, but that was possible. Better to just avoid that little conversation for the moment. Wouldn't want to open up that bag of worms.

"A nurse, huh. Well, as a warrior that is always on the front line of combat, I can always use a pick me up now and again when I get injured." She looked her over before continuing. "And anyone is fooling you if they say that they never gain an injury during battle."

Suva turned from Monica to the goblins and then back to Monica, smiling. "Yeah. A little over eager, aren't they about their problem already being dealt with. You lot just got here. And I haven't been here that much longer than you."

The mercenary tapped her sheathed sword as she spoke. "On my way here, I had seen a squadron of about 5 on patrol. Is anyone in your group a scout? They might be able to get a better bead on their numbers in the morning."

------------------------
Ilen's smiled turned into a look of confusion and then of sadness as Catherine and Sildar spoke. "Bbut you are great heroes. We were told you were coming from the letter. That you were here to help. We even pooled some of our coin and hired a mercenary warrior to help you fight. She is strong and skilled and will protect you while you protect us." During his words, he turned back to a smile and picked up some vegetables which he started eating.

"I have confidence in you and so do the rest of the tribe. We are just tired of the torment of Dirken and his warriors. They even had captured our best warrior." He looked momentarily crestfallen. " That was a sad day. Straps was such a beautiful young woman and had the keenest eyes. That was why she had the best bow in the settlement."​

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Sildar Evans
LegoLad659 LumaThePhoenix Trektek​

Sildar sighed as Ilen sputtered out a response to both his and the Blue Fox's talk and then began to speak again. "I never said I wasn't accomplished Ilen, I was made leader of this group you see before you. It's just that cheers must be tempered with caution." Upon the mention of the woman as a hired mercenary Sildar smiled, "We welcome the assistance with open arms and it will be greatly appreciated. I also thank you for your confidence in our abilities Ilen and after all," Sildar pulled out his mother's bow in one hand, "I too possess keen eyesight as well as a keen mind. I never recalled myself as a hero, but I will try to live up to your expectations."

 

[LegoLad659]

Catherine Terra
Trektek Clockwork Syringe LumaThePhoenix​

Catherine raised an eyebrow as the goblin mentioned that Dirken had captured their best warrior. If the warlord was intending to kill off the rest of these people, then to not only leave their best warrior alive but keep her in custody was a curious action. One that carries a lot of risks, mainly that being said warrior finding a way to escape. Then he'd have an enemy loose inside his base, and no matter how weak he thought she was she could still cause major problems. So what did Dirken hope to gain from this? Catherine could think of a worst-case scenario and decided to keep it in the back of her mind for if it ever came up.

Instead Catherine opted to ask a different, but equally important question "How did she get captured, if she's such a powerful warrior?" She asked Ilen. The main thing this would answer would be if Straps was snuck up on or simply overpowered, either outcome telling them about his forces' tactics and overall combat ability.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia​

Trektek Clockwork Syringe LegoLad659

Seeing Suva smile made Monica feel more relieved and less threatened being around the mercenary. She didn't seem to be nearly as distant or cold-hearted as expected either. Monica swayed slightly while she was getting looked over, overjoyed at the thought of having a new ally help carry out the mission. With any luck, maybe the trio could convince her to join their cause. "Nurse Monica at your service." The half-mermaid then nodded in agreement to her statement about people getting injured on the battlefield. It wouldn't exactly be a surprise to hear someone boast about their skills and claim to seldom, if ever, get injured in combat to make themselves sound better.

When Suva mentioned seeing a patrol squad earlier and asked if there was a scout in the group, Monica pointed towards Blue. "I'd say she's our best option. Come, I'll introduce you to her and the guy next to her. That way we can come up with a plan together." Monica had began walking to the side towards the others at the bonfire. She kept her eyes on Suva, inviting her to follow.

 

[Trektek]

LumaThePhoenix , Clockwork Syringe , LegoLad659

Ilen nodded at Sildar as he spoke. "Yes, the mercenary is a powerful warrior that uses a sword and shield. We heard that she has done great things, and taken down many powerful enemies."

He turned to Catherine as she spoke and asked what had happened to their own powerful warrior, Straps. "She is a mighty archer, skilled with the bow and arrows in the forest, but even she could not deal with their numbers and strength. They defeated the others that had joined her to fight the warlord and captured her. Probably as a prize now that I think about it."

Suva Pyrewalker

Suva smirked at the nurse. She was certainly an eager one, to be sure. Perhaps it would be better to work with a group again. Time alone on the road was harsh, especially working alone at time without having anyone watching your back. It would be nice at least for this mission to be with others. "Yes, that would probably by the correct path. Having someone be able to gain us vital intel could mean all the difference on the battlefield. The difference between life and death."

She held her arm out. "Lead the way, Monica."

She followed Monica to the others. Ilen looked up and smiled. "This is the mercenary that we have hired. She is Suva Pyrewalker and she is a mighty warrior."

Suva laughed. "I wouldn't say that I am mighty. I'm at least adequate for the situation at hand."

She turned to the others. "Hello. I'm Suva Pyrewalker, a mercenary fighter that will be joining you for this fight against the warlord. We should discuss strategy."​

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Sildar Evans
LegoLad659 LumaThePhoenix Trektek​

Sildar listened as Ilen explained how Straps was captured in addition to briefly speaking about the mercenary they hired. A sword and shield fighter would cover some of their weaknesses now that he thought about it. Of course, Sildar was good in close quarters combat, but he didn't think that Monica and Blue realized that; best to keep it that way to surprise some of them later. A ghost of a smirk appeared on Sildar's face as he thought about this.

Speaking of the mercenary, she approached with Monica in tow before introducing herself as Suva Pyrewalker. ~Pyrewalker huh? How ominous and fitting, I am a half dragon after all~ Sildar thought to himself. Sildar held up a cupped hand that conjured some small controlled fire as he introduced himself. "Pleasure to meet you Suva my name is Sildar Evans, professor of the Gilgamesh tower and expert sorcerer." Upon the mention of strategy, Sildar nodded. "Yes we should discuss strategy."

 

[LegoLad659]

Catherine Terra
Trektek Clockwork Syringe LumaThePhoenix​

Catherine mentally noted down what Ilen told her. So they simply overwhelmed her with numbers, then. Meaning raw strength definitely wasn't the answer here, they should instead perhaps find a way to use landscape or any tools they have available to outsmart them instead. And, well, they were goblins. That didn't sound very hard.

Before she could start to consider what they should do though, Monica approached with the mercenary that Ilen spoke so highly of (Then again, with how eager these goblins were to glorify three people they'd never even met before, that really wasn't saying much) and she introduced herself as Suva Pyrewalker, a swordswoman. A front-line fighter, which while Catherine didn't feel a need for, at least when it came to herself, she could see how it would be useful for a mage and a nurse.

Sildar introduced himself in turn as well. Catherine did not.

 

[LumaThePhoenix]

Monica Battaglia​

LegoLad659 Clockwork Syringe Trektek

Monica was getting a little more excited with each passing second as Suva followed her. Morale was pretty high and somehow even higher amongst the goblins themselves. It was all sunshine and rainbows until Monica inadvertently overheard Ilen mention what happened to Straps. The nurse's smile fell off a cliff as she stopped and even took a step back. Her head lowered slowly and her eyes changed color. Thankfully, Suva's introduction provided a unintentional diversion while Monica silently fought off tears. She begain having flashbacks again. Her own traumas only added to what she feared may be happening to the captured archer. Her fingers twitched a little. A dark blue wave started rising inside her pendant.

N-no. No, not again. That poor archer was just trying to defend her home. Those savages took her. They took her like she was some kind of trophy. I...I can't...I won't let her life be stolen like mine was! Dirken and his underlings will have hell to pay! I'll drown every one of them I come across until we free her! I'll turn their land into an oceanic graveyard if I have to! And when we get to Dirken, I'll enjoy every moment we make him suffer for whatever he's done to Straps and all of the innocent goblins he and his troops have bullied!

For a moment, Monica was being consumed by her vengeful side. Her body stands still because it's taking everything she has to keep her anger bottled up. The goblins had already gone through enough fear and sorrow. She didn't want to crush their joy by scaring them. So she remained silent and listened to the others communicate.