Active [Nan Gau] May Even These Peseants Have Respite! Pt. III

[saxon]

Eris Granstone

B Grade Character

Titles: Human, Priest, Holy Smiter, Hero of The Fae See, Mage, Fae, Spirit of the Battlefield Ally F, Faculty of Celestine F, Ordained, Mundane, Caster

mentions: Tau Moonberry Maxxob FantasyCat Elias Wren Kikimura Tellussoil Rcticwolf Maverick Six

Notes: Due to the number of people I do ask for my sake you include a TLDR either at the top or the bottom of your post. Nigel you are able to see any characters status boards that are E grade or lower.

Following the conclusion of the briefing, Eris stepped up and took the map that was going to be their guide to the hamlet they were sent to investigate. Taking the map she tightened the roll before tucking it away into her robes. "Hello Martin, seems like we are missing two people from yesterday," Eris stated pointing out the fact that John and Eagle-1 were not to be seen however some of that was to be expected. She was about to continue talking when Aedrianna approached the two and introduced herself, "Eris Grandstone, High Priestess of the Goddess Holfeel, Goddess of reincarnation and guider of souls." When she was asked about the missing merchant she brought her hand to her chin as she looked up toward the ceiling. "Not that I know of, I only arrived early yesterday so I'm afraid I don't know anyone by that name," Eris explained as she shook her head.

By this point the room had pretty much emptied and now it was only the group that remained. By the time that Kiyo had entered and fallen flat on his face many of the people around didn't pay too much attention as they were listening to the briefing that they had been given at least for the moment escaping any embarrassment that could have followed. Eris gazed around the room as she saw that Yume had booped the kitsune's ears, to which she face-palmed herself. She was about to correct it until Aedrianna corrected the issue.

When Nigel introduced himself the name caught him off guard and she started to wonder if the two were related in some way or not, letting out a small sigh she started to make her way toward the group that was starting to assemble. "Sometimes, it's best not to peak into things," Eris hinted with a smile as she looked at Nigel while some of the people here might have been new. Eris could tell when someone was appraising someone due to her experience.

Eris saw as Ariko give Nigel the bird, she cocked her head to the right, "Come on, we can all play nice now. We are going to be working together after all." Eris pointed out with a chuckle as she was trying to smooth things over before they started to get a little too out of hand. They were all going to need to be able to trust one another at least, especially if they had to fight something.

"Now if you would please let go of my associate's wrist, she is quite harmless I assure you," Eris requested as her hand tightened around her staff. Things for the moment seemed to be heating up a little too much. While Eris didn't particularly have a reason to intervene in the matter, she wasn't about to let either side cross a boundary she wasn't opposed to putting up a barrier if she had to separate the two. "Now Yume, apologize to the kitsune that you touched and come over here please," Eris smiled, though there was a hint of authority in the voice.

Though for the moment, Nigel didn't seem to be doing himself any favors in this matter. Eris started to rub her temple with her free hand as things continued to spiral out of control. When Noelle came up to make her threat Eris let out a sigh. It seemed like this group was going to have its tension no matter what happened. Though when she turned her attention back to Yume she was gone which then Eris looked around after a few moments she returned.

"Yume," Eris stated with a bit more force this time. If she was going to have to play peacemaker the whole trip then so be it. However, she let out her breath as things didn't at least escalate any further for the moment. That was when the latest arrival finally appeared as she crashed to the floor, which caused Eris to give her a confused look. "Anyway, I'm Eris Grandstone, High Priestess of the Goddess Holfeel, Goddess of reincarnation and guider of souls, Hero of the Fae See, also known as the hero of courage," She introduced herself to the rest of the group as it seemed now everyone had finally arrived.

Or well, she had thought that everyone had arrived until a new voice spoke up. Turning to look at the new voice, she saw that it was the monster hunter for hire. With the rest of the group now arrived, Eris looked at her map, the journey taking them forward seemed to follow the main road for the most part. Though at the moment it looked like the group was going to be traveling by foot unless something changed. She tightened her grip around her staff and looked towards the door. "Well we should start making out way toward the hamlet, there is no telling what we might find there," Eris suggested as she started to move toward the door that would lead the group outside.

Unlike how they entered, the wind blew from the north, bringing down the colder air from the mountain that hit their backs. Many soldiers huddled around braziers as they rubbed their hands together. Off in the distance several more paper lanterns flew up into the air and followed the wind. After a moment the song on the wind had returned, which made Eris question what exactly the song the Hime-Sama was singing did. Many questions were left unanswered for the moment. "Well now that we are on the move, we should probably discuss our formation, casters in the middle, the front lines in the front with one in the back, what does everyone think?" Eris inquired as she figured they could discuss this as they moved through Nan Gau.

Leaving the fortress, the smells of bread and cooked meat filled the air, smoke from some of the stalls could be seen rising up in the air. Soon the sight of the stalls came into view, beef, lamb and other various assortments of meat were seen. There was a hint of spice in the crisp, cold air, there was talk of upcoming festivals and some of the older members of the town sitting off in the corner drinking some ale. Their age was apparent due to the cracks and weathered look of their skin, and they were dressed in several lays with the only skin showing on their faces.

Continuing through the streets, they passed several dives and random shops; many customers were haggling with the shopkeepers while others were arguing over whose turn it was to pay for the bill. Despite the events over the past year the Residents of Nan Gau have come to terms with the danger that was now stalking them in the snow. By this point, Eris herself tightened her grip around her cloak, attempting to trap some of the warmth inside of it.

"So what do you all think of these undead? Based on what we were told they seem like they will be a tough fight," Eris pointed out as she asked the group as a whole. They continued down a long set of stairs as they arrived at a new section of the town, the outskirts. There were several houses there, but mainly the warehouses and livestock farmers inhabited this area. Further down the road was a sign with several guards standing by it which marked the edge of the town. Once they passed that, they would be in the wilds; as far as they could see, further down the road were evergreens. Snow nested on their needles as a sea of green and white came into view, the sound of crunching snow gave way to a more powdery texture.

 

[Maverick Six]

Martin
Mentions: Tau Moonberry Maxxob FantasyCat Elias Wren Kikimura Tellussoil Rcticwolf saxon
Equipped Titles: Abomination, Human (Mundane), Construct, Novice Tinkerer, Isekai

The scientist's writing and drawing stopped. His notebook shut. They would soon be on the move. Whatever was with the girl would have to wait. However, he did note that her name appeared to be "Yume."

Retrieving his retractable staff from his side -- he flicks it, and it opens, extending once again. A small orb hovers, small fragments orbiting the top of the catalyst like the moons orbiting a planet. He leans on the staff whenever he walks ever so slightly, seeking to both preserve energy and avoid tripping on what was icy terrain.

He takes brief note of a new arrival.

"An American and Englishman here. Comforting." He comments on the new arrival "Cassidy" and alludes to Nigel once more. The presence of nationalities akin to those found in his world gave a comforting familiarity. Though Martin enjoyed encountering "Isekai" in general. People could be from many different types of worlds. Many of those native to this world were probably apt to know nothing of what he was talking about.

Standing straight up -- Martin began to walk outside. He was well dressed for the weather. His clothes had been all of the heavy sort. And the body armor he wore pressed up against his body even further. His outfit would be hell in a desert, but he felt as though he was fine here. Still, he was careful not to trip. Despite his age, Martin's feet sank into the snow well, implying a degree of weight upon his shoulders. The wind hit the back of his head -- which was thankfully covered by a hood.

The warm scent of the market began to fill his nose. He hadn't been particularly hungry, having already eaten long before coming here. He observed as many were going about their lives in these troubling times. His expression, however, did not shift as his eyes swept over the place and then moved forward.

Eris lead the conversation, speaking of formations.

"I lack experience in formation fighting. I cede that to you, Eris." He said. While familiar with combat in his past life, he was not familiar with fighting in formation or approaching combat from the way militaries did. More often than not, he engaged his foes by himself and head-on. Such was not an option for him. Whether he liked them, or they liked him, he needed them. Thus, the suggestion had appeal. The more meat between him and them, the better.

While he may lack in tactics, Eris' next question was more within the realm of Martin's talents: Information.

"The dangers of the undead seem manyfold. He started.

What followed next was a fairly rapid explanation without stutter. Accustomed to giving lectures and training, the man who was once both a quantum physicist and a mechanical engineer hardly stopped for a breath. And he spoke loud enough that everyone could hear him. But he held up his hand to talk of his points. Which boiled down to three.

One finger.

"One. The undead appear to be quite sturdy. There was mention of one withstanding an arrow to the head and continuing on. These seem more powerful than typical undead. It was mentioned that fire appeared to be one of the only ways to keep them down permanently. Perhaps alluding to a healing factor of some sort. Perhaps dismemberment might be preferred, but I would assume they are as durable as you and I -- if not more so. Fire is said to keep them down permanently."

Two fingers.

"Two. These undead are often accompanied by a snowstorm. They appear to prefer concealment. Outside of the obvious hazard of cold, this has been shown to hamper visibility greatly. Those with enhanced senses would do well to employ it to prevent ambushes. Bites do not infect. Merely dying in their proximity seems to cause you to become one of them. "

Three fingers.

"Three. Eagle One managed to survey the hamlet from the sky. It is in ruins. I doubt there are any survivors. But she mentioned seeing ONE heat signature. This implies a living being. An unknown. There is much we still do not know."

Finally, Martin lowered his hand. While some already didn't like the mechanical man, hopefully, he'd provide them with something useful.

"I anticipate the hamlet's residents have been killed and inducted into their fold. Entire families are apt to be among their ranks...I could be wrong, but I hardly see a reason as to why this isn't the case at the moment." From this, he hoped to paint....a fairly grim image of what they might look like.

"I advise you to show no mercy. Perhaps lend me a sample for analysis." The scientist said -- his tone lending itself to an almost matter-a-fact politeness with his last request.

---

Summary / Too Long Didn't Read

• Martin departs with the group.
• Martin agrees with Eris' suggestion -- having casters in the middle, most frontliners in front and one to the rear.
• Martin gives the group information he and others recovered during May Even These Wayward Wanderers Have Respite

 

[Moonberry]

Aedrianna Belmonte

╔══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╗​

The air around them was frigid as they walked the streets of Nan Gau, the chill biting through her cloak. Aedrianna pulled the fur-lined fabric tighter around her shoulders, shivering as her breath formed misty clouds in the cold air. Nigel’s approach had stirred the group, each reaction marked by resolute animation. She had had to gently placed a hand on Ariko’s arm, quietly apologizing to Nigel for the intensity of their welcome. Thankfully miss Eris had taken command of the situation rather quickly. So, she hadn't had the chance to speak with the strange man. She wondered if the beastkin had some sort of sixth sense. Because in her own mind, this Yume girl seemed worse than Nigel She'd been rude and flippant about another person's personal space. Had the nerve to act like she'd been wronged when reprimanded. And then came crying about being sorry. Aedrianna had been teased about crying before. So, it wasn't really the crying that annoyed her. More the fact that the girl seemed to think she could run out and run back in with an empty apology and that made it all okay.

As they continued their trek outside, the cold sent a slight tremor through Aedrianna’s body. She found herself beside Ariko again, her thoughts wandering. “I think perhaps it might be prudent to play along with Mister Nigel. He’s asked for nothing in return and is part of our team. It's imperative that we trust each other and work together in these situations.” she spoke softly, her voice just loud enough for her companions to hear. Nigel had offered his help, and she was begining to feel desperate to find her father. It wasn't like him to be so late. Was it possible he'd run into his own trouble?

Aedrianna shook her head, as if to shake the thoughts away. Turning her attention to Brandy, who had arrived late, she smiled reassuringly. “Did you get the gist of the briefing? We’ll be fighting undead here. Do you think you'll be okay?” she asked, also glancing towards Kiyo and hoping he wouldn’t be too frightened of their comrades and run right into the enemy line.

Perhaps if he were to see that Nigel and Martin were just ordinary men, he wouldn't be so put off by them. She squeezed Ariko’s hand gently to get his attention. “I’m going to speak with Mister Niigel. You can come with me, just...try to be polite? Please?" she teased lightly before moving towards Nigel. With a warm smile, she addressed him, “Hello, Mister Nigel. I apologize for earlier. My friends are just a bit jumpy. We’ve only just returned from Ryke and encountered many troublesome people on the road. I hope you can forgive us. If you could help us, find my father, I would be very grateful. I’m not sure exactly how we’re related, but I’m certain my father can clear it up once we find him.” She curtsied politely, her smile sincere. Hopefully Sorieiel wouldn't be too upset with her for going to address Nigel against her warning.

As Eris asked about the undead and Martin began explaining, Aedrianna’s attention remained rapt, her blue eyes fixed on him. The weight of his words pressed heavily on her heart. The thought of so many people near her home dying filled her with a hollow sorrow. She rubbed her arms absently, seeking warmth. Unconsciously, she drifted back to Ariko’s side, still shivering slightly. She hummed along to the song that was on the wind. Wondering who exactly was creating the melody. Part of her wished Noelle would start playing. At least if she was singing, she wouldn't be thinking about all the terrible possibilities.

As if in afterthought, Aedrianna pulled a large flask from her satchel. Unscrewing the top, she sipped the bitter liquid inside. It was the tea brewed from Skythorn blossom leaves they had collected before the fair. The acrid taste lingered, but the effects were almost immediate—a subtle but welcome warmth. She spent the next few minutes sipping quietly, listening to the others.

╚══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╝

Mentions: Elias Wren saxon Maxxob Kikimura​

Spoiler: TLDR

Aedri apologizes to Nigel and drinks some tea. (Nothing happened)

 

[FantasyCat]

Character sheet​

Kiyo looked up as Martin approached and spoke to him. He swallowed nervously at first, but unlike Nigel, he did not get a malicious feel from him. After watching him walk away and sit by himself Kiyo’s ears flattened a little in guilt. He didn’t mean to upset him, though it was hard to tell what emotions Martin was feeling.

His ears perked back up in reaction to the last man introducing himself. There were so many new people to meet that it made Kiyo equally excited and nervous. Then Eris spoke reminding him that he was here for a reason and not just to socialise though he wasn’t sure what his role would be other than tending to people's wounds. He scratched the back of his head as he tried to recall anything about the ‘Hero of the Fae see’ that she claimed to be. He decided he would introduce himself to her later when he got the chance.

After standing up, he grabbed his wooden staff and began to follow Eris outside. He honestly did not want to leave the comfort of the fortress because he was not built for this climate, his green robe barely did anything to keep him warm. He winced as the cold air blew against the back of his head which made him quickly pull his hood up, it made little difference however. Music, beautiful music in fact. He could not locate its origin, it was a nice distraction from the cold while he walked. Kiyo’s stomach grumbled at the smell of delicious meats. He frowned in defeat knowing he had no coins and tried to block out the alluring smells that came from the stalls he passed.

His attention then shifted to the task at hand. Zombies. He had only read about them in books and tomes. Just talking about necromancy was forbidden back home and rightly so. To disrupt the cycle of life and death is absolute blasphemy. Kiyo’s eyes filled with anger at just the thought of that, it disgusted him on a level that no words could properly describe. He absorbed the information that Martin provided. This sparked his curiosity which made him fall back on his arcane knowledge. It saddened and angered him that so many innocent people had been killed and turned into monsters, but perhaps it was not too late to help those who were still alive. He thought for a moment before increasing his pace to catch up with Martin.

“I-I’m sorry for running away from you earlier…I hope we still can be friends” Kiyo said sheepishly with a nervous smile. “Do you know if the zombies are magical in nature?” He asked with his head tilted, though innocent, his eyes contained a deep desire for knowledge.

Spoiler: TLDR

Hungry.
Cold.
Got an idea of what they would be dealing with from Martin.
Approached and attempted to befriend Martin while trying to get more info about the zombies.

Interactions: Maverick Six

Mentions: saxon

 

[Elias Wren]

Ariko Balba


Heading Through Town - Aedrianna, Nigel.
As the group began to head out he made sure to stay close to Aedrianna and the others, crossing his arms tightly against his chest as they headed out into the bitter winds. It has been some time since Ariko has seen so much ice and snow since he lived in a moderate climate back in his old world, he blew out from his mouth to create a thick cloud of vapor and for a moment pretended to be smoking like he used to do as a child to initiate the adults.

As Aedrianna expressed her desire to work with Nigel he nodded, not wanting to cause any more friction with the man on the off chance he could actually aid in their search for her father. "Understood boss, I'll play nice." Ariko noticed how Aedrianna shivered and broke off from the group for just a moment as they passed through the market to haggle with one of the local shops, buying a thick off white poncho lined with some kind of animal fur. He brought it back and offered it to Aedrianna in hopes it would help her retain some warmth.

As they walked a little further Ariko felt her tiny hand squeeze his and looked to her as she spoke, nodding along with her words. "Alright, I'll follow your lead boss. But if anything happens, all bets are off." Ariko smiled as they made their way over to Nigel. He offered a nod to the older gentleman before speaking. "Sorry for the rude reception. I hope we can put it behind us. We haven't exactly had an easy time lately." Ariko spoke sincere to Nigel as he reached out and offered his right hand to shake the mans.

As the group continued through town Ariko gave Nigel and Aedrianna a little space for their discussion, looking around and listening to Martins explaining of the zombie enemies they would be facing, and taking not of where he should be in case combat breaks out. Being a unarmed fighter he would most definitely be on the front line, but the thought of leaving Aedrianna's side was daunting, he did not wish for anything to happen while he was preoccupied should the need arise.

TLDR

Spoiler

Spoke to Aedrianna.
Bought a poncho.
Approached Nigel.

Moonberry Maxxob

 

[Kikimura]

Tomoko Brandy​

Brandy delicately sniffed the air, a faint shake of her head accompanying her confident declaration. "I'm certain I'll be foineeee! To be perfectly frank, I've come here to kick some arse! dead or alive—it matters not, nyeheheh," she proclaimed proudly, her voice carrying a hint of mischief.

As she spoke, Brandy's attention turned to Aedri, who seemed to shiver slightly. Without hesitation, She enveloped Aedri in a warm hug, a soft giggle escaping her lips. "There, now we can share the warmth! Nyahe." And to ensure they wont fall behind, Brandy moved to Aerdris side, gently clasping Aedri's hand in hers, maintaining close proximity of warmth as her tail playfully flicked behind them.

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Spoiler: TLDR

Brandy hugged Aedri, happy to share the warmth!

Interaction: Moonberry

 

[Maxxob]

Nigel Belmont

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Equipped Titles: [Offworlder], [Human], [Big and Small Game Hunter] - Color - #735f0f

Mentions: saxon Maverick Six Develius FantasyCat Rcticwolf
Interactions: Tellussoil Moonberry Elias Wren

Nigel watched intently and silently to all the attention he was receiving after approaching Aedrianna. As if carved from unfeeling stone, his statuesque presence remained unchanged, a polite smile still present on his lips despite all of it. With the female animal-person, Soreiel, whispering something to the girl with colored-hair, the hunter’s mind heeled with possible implications. Whispers, often the weapon of the meek and weak, were as dangerous as any blade being deeply inserted between someone’s ribs. Still, the human had no idea what was being talked about, only having his own assumptions of it.

Following that, he felt a small tapping on his back, not being caught by surprise by Noelle [Resilient Surprise]. With the same polite mask, his ash-colored eyes zeroed in on the girl’s azure ones. His expression could say it all: he was neither impressed nor threatened by the implied danger contained in her words [Resilient Fear]. But, even then, a mock expression of confusion was fabricated on his mask, tilting his head ever so slightly. “How could I be bothering your comrades? Clearly, if you all have Aedrianna’s best interest at heart, you wouldn’t try to turn away a helping hand in finding her missing father, yes?” A seed of doubt being thrown in the air, subtle poison being distilled. “But I do understand being careful with outsiders, it speaks volumes about the care towards her.” His tone had an edge of condescension.

Yet, the entertainment just continued. With the young feline-boy, Kiyo, bristling and snarling towards him, in a primal display, it took every fiber in Nigel’s body to keep him from laughing. Rather than threatened, he was amused by the little cub’s attempt of intimidation. The hunter had been face-to-face against bigger felines: lions, panthers and tigers alike. However, the raw and uncensored display was not an unwelcome one. He now knew more about the boy’s animal instincts and would keep them ingrained in his memory. And, while scything such a prey at this early stage of development held little value, the time for the hunt would eventually come.

Turning himself away from the group, as Eris, the woman in priestly attire, introduced herself, with quite many titles accompanying her name. “Hero, huh? I wonder if she is a war veteran…” Those were his thoughts, as someone else introduce themselves as a monster hunter. His eyes drifted briefly towards the man who introduced himself as Cassidy. A fellow competitor, possibly? That would make things rather interesting.

Nigel’s attention was then focused on her continuing explanation about the task they would undertake, his expression remaining relaxed for the moment. With a tip of his hat, he was on the move, following her and the group, the strong wind now blowing, feeling a slight chill running through his spine. At least, now he wasn’t in that detestable, warm weather, right?

“The formation is certainly sound.” The hunter offered about Eris’ suggestion, agreeing to it, although, just like Martin, the human was not used to formation of whatever one would expect from fighters of this world. No, his experience was with gun-wielding, squad-formations from the 30s, 40s and the 50s.

As Aedrianna approached him, Nigel kept his friendly demeanor, not betraying the morbid curiosity to know if the seeds he had planted earlier had taken root. And, from her impromptu apologies, it appeared that they did, in some sort of fashion. Now, with proper care, who knew how big this insidious plant would grow? “Oh please, just call me Nigel, no need for formalities.” His smile grew, showing once more pearly whites among a few golden teeth. “That is quite alright, your companions are already forgiven. It is good that you have surrounded yourself with such an overprotective bunch. You can count on my help to find Thaddeus. The sooner we find him, the sooner we will know if my suspicions were correct.” Taking off his hat, the hunter bowed slightly, returning her cutesy, his politeness betraying nothing of rot underneath his veneer.

The young man, who had flipped him off earlier, was met with the same friendliness, his hand being accepted in a handshake in a heartbeat. “That is quite alright, old sport. Better be prepared than to be caught by surprise, right?” He chuckled a bit, holding his hand for a moment longer, before releasing it. Things would be even more interesting than what he had imagined…

And, with Martin’s explanation about the nature of the undead, it appeared that Nigel has been mistaken. For such detailed description about the creature’s weaknesses and fortitude to be recounted in such a methodical manner, he had to concede that the threat, as absurd as it sounded, was real. Without any readily manner to put them down permanently, with the use of fire, he wondered how many projectiles it would take to keep them down at least momentarily. That would probably give a chance for those with the means to destroy them completely.

A nod was given, confirmation that the hunter had understood these preys’ particularities, his expression now unreadable, not a single shred of emotion crossing his features as the death of families being mentioned, probably now among the rank of the undead. He was as ready as he could ever be for it.

Spoiler: TL'DR

Nigel observes Soreiel's whispering with great interest.
Unflinching and unafraid, the hunter answers to Noelle's implied threats with subtle poison
The war veteran watches Kiyo's bestial display with great amusement
He is curious about the Hero title held by Eris, as well as to Cassidy being a hunter, albeit one of a different variety
Nigel accepts Aedrianna's apology in behest of her friends, further pledging his help to find her father. He also accepts Ariko's handshake and apology
Taking in the information given by Martin, Nigel already begins preparing himself for what there is to come.

 

[Develius]

---

"CURRENTLY DISGUISED AS 'CASSIDY B. FLINT'"

Mentions:
| saxon [Eris] | Maverick Six [Martin] |
​

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It appeared Cassidy had arrived just in time. And for the moment, it seemed that everyone failed to recognize his undead form. Or if they hadn't, they kept silent and composed. He would breathe a sigh of relief, though he knew better that he stayed alert. One slip up would be enough to give himself away. Regardless, the group was ready to depart and with it the gunslinger quietly followed them outside. Their next stop was the hamlet... and whatever was residing within those foresaken lands.

Cassidy ensured his Six-Shot Revolver was in prime firing condition, inspecting its parts and ensuring its weapon was in order. He wasn't too concerned about any of the mechanical parts locking up or freezing in such cold weather, though admittedly the possibility has crossed up in his noggin intrusively. No matter. Cassidy assumed it would be fine. The more important thing to discuss was, according to their leader Ms. Eris Grandstone, what their game plan was in terms of formation. She assumed casters being in the middle while heavy duty more rugged warriors stay both in the front with a few manning the back of the group.

This seemed all fine and dandy to Cassidy, but there was one bellyaching question he needed to get off his chest while he still could. He strolled up closer to Eris to announce his question. "If I may ask freely," the gunslinger asked curiously, "Just what kinda undead we be goin' up against? For the less informed masses? Bonefolk? Rotten-hides? Ghoully-boys?" Though it would be the hulking robed mechanical man who would elaborate more on what they were facing.

What Cassidy got was the following:

1. The undead are sturdier than they appear.
2. Fire puts the undead down for good.
3. The undead prefer to be concealed; accompanied by snowstorms.
4. Bites from the undead do not infect; dying in their presence turns you into them.

Cassidy rubbed his fake beard, ogling his choices. They didn't sound like mere skeletons at least. He could breathe easier knowing that. Nor were these sounding like ghouls or ghostly folk. Really they better fit the description of "Rotten-Hides"; or zombies. Though their bites being non-infectious was a curious detail, something contradicting what he was more familiar with back home. And his dark vision also wouldn't help too much in seeing through the snowstorm either, nor the fact they were moving early in the morning to have any real use for it. Really he imagined dark caves and, maybe, abandoned homes casted in shade would be useful. Still, confirmation from Eris would allow him a better idea what to expect.

Now if only he had access to fire-spewing napalm bullets...

In addition, someone known as "Eagle One" scouted the ruins and reported of the entire place being in ruins, with only one unknown figure being detected within. Cassidy couldn't help but sneer at that last portion. Sounded ominous. And while it was still in the air as to what this entity was - be it a friend or foe - the gunslinger had an aching suspicion in his bones. He had a hunch that the unknown figure on the horse mentioned in the briefing and this entity could possibly be one and the same. Though frankly who was to say?

With an ear out for Eris' response, Cassidy glanced back at the party for a moment before lighting a cigar for the long road ahead.

 

[Tau]

Yume

Fae

Maxxob Elias Wren Tellussoil FantasyCat Develius Maverick Six​

Rcticwolf
Yume peeked her head up from the floor and smiled widely as her apology seemed to go well. She shook Soreiel's hand with enthusiasm, and her expression softened as the kitsune kept speaking, "People actually have slaves!? How barbaric." After a short pause, Yume winked, "I just realized, your nickname could be Sorry! How perfect~" Yume giggled. "Let's not die together~"


Moonberry
If the whole situation had tied Yume and Soreiel together, it'd done the exact opposite to the one who'd ironically caused it to happen. Each time the two happened to be glancing in the same direction, like clockwork, Yume would turn away in a huff. This only escalated with time, until Yume was blowing raspberries at her like a petulant child.

Yume [Stealth]ily scooped some snow from a nearby crate as the group passed by, squeezed it into a small snowball, and hurled it at Aedrianna. Despite her subtlety, anyone paying attention to the two would've been able to guess what'd happened. No one more than Aedrianna herself.


saxon
At first, Yume didn't react to the name at all. It was only once she'd had a moment to think back on Eris's specific words that she finally realized it was referring to her at all. Approaching Eris with a curious look, Yume asked, "Did you call me Yume earlier...?" she asked, tilting her head. "It's strange. I've been called Yume three times now, by people I never gave a name to. Do you know something I don't, Hero...?" She leaned forward, staring deep into Eris's eyes, begging for a satisfying answer. "Why do you call me Yume? Do you..."

Spoiler: Telepathy goes 'ring ring' @ Eris

"...Do you know about my curse?"

Spoiler: TL;DR

Trashed on slavery with Soreiel. Blew raspberries, then threw a snowball, at Aedrianna. Asked Eris about her name and her curse.