Fantasy Newfound Lands - Dark Marsh Expedition

[SilverFeathers]

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7​

• 1
• 2
• Notes

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• 
• Location
  Dark Marsh - Expedition Campsite w/ Ymir, Za, Vyilkihild, Wizard, Maika, Alyssa, Sally, Ahni & Chiharu
  
  Mentions
  Spoiled Bread BFabulous Femboy Megilagor (Bear puns)

Scrollbox ->

Nanalee's eyes shone as she watched everyone's demonstrations, clapping politely after each and every one. It was always fun broadening her horizons on the capabilities and usages of magic. Considering all the construct-creators, she wondered if she'd get a chance to use a weapon made from everyone here in the future? Now that would be a feat.

"Welcome to the team Chiharu. And, it's always good to have someone physically strong around. If we are rendered magic-less, we will be relying on you Vyilki." Nanalee smiled as she addressed them each in turn. Although, Vyiliki's speech was a little too suddenly profound for her to follow completely. The harpy was never good with round-about words and metaphors, but she appreciated her meaning.

"Cute slime. Maybe they can be buddies with my spirit friends." Nanalee commented towards Maika after a little while. Considering they were originally seated quite close to each other, she had quite the close-up view of the slime summoning.

Somewhat stirred by the cuteness of the little guy, Nanalee pushed through the remnants of nausea to try and channel her magic. Ice stemmed from her fingertips as she personally moulded a sculpture, it's shape taking the form of a baby bear.

Calling Bal from the other realm, she fondly watched as an indigo light danced inside her sculpture, before settling into the two eye sockets. They glowed with a dark blue light as the bear came to life without a sound, stretching and bending its chubby little paws tentatively.

Glancing back towards Maika, Nanalee chuckled at the slime's lazy position on her head. Since she herself hadn't let a spirit rest on her head for a long time, she picked up and gently began balancing the bear atop her head. Bal remained cooperative, hugging her silver hair as she surveyed the strange marshland they were in.

Beaming once she was done, the harpy couldn't help but contemplate a question that had just popped into her head. "I wonder why I made a baby bear? I usually sculpt foxes/cats if I want smaller spirit bodies." She pondered out loud, unable to recall why bears had been in her subconscious. After a few moments, she merely shook her head and dismissed the thought. Bal looked cute like this anyway, and variety was always nice.

When Maika got up to view the map, Nanalee noticed something. The squirming tendrils hidden beneath her very long black coat. "Wait, Maika are you an ocean-dweller?" Nanalee interrogated suddenly, only having just put two and two together. On retrospect, it was quite the blunt question, and her tone was pretty aggressive, but it was too late to take back now.

"I don't mean it a negative way or anything, I'm just curious." The harpy hurriedly waved her hands and smiled a little sheepishly, whilst internally reminding herself to be more emotionally aware in the future.

 

[Key of Stars]

Alyssa Enren
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: Gaius Danius Griinia SilverFeathers Spoiled Bread ​

Alyssa had a million things to say about the Wizard's advice, and none of them were exactly kind or thankful. In the end she held back, she knew the man had spoken out of sincerity and a genuine want to help, not to be condescending. Even so, if only he knew who her magic instructor had been, she doubted he would have dared speak up. No matter how well acquainted with mana this man or those he learned from might have been, she didn't doubt for even a moment that her mother was several times stronger. The only one she'd ever seen match her mother in pure magic was the scum that called himself the Duke of Afflictions.

Still, he wasn't entirely wrong, she did have a slight delay in her magic. It was just, his explanation and demonstration... couldn't be more off the mark. His icy sword was an impressive piece of work, but it was only that, a sword made of ice. Yes, she could manipulate silver the same way he could manipulate ice, but in truth, she rarely ever did. If she made her sword the same way he did his she would have a solid weapon at her disposal, yes, but her lacking physical strength and skill with the weapon would make it about as effective as swinging around a solid silver rod.

That was exactly why she almost exclusively used both of her affinities at the same time, not only manipulating the silver but also infusing it with spirit magic. Every piece of silver she controlled in her range was its own seperate entity, that way she could make up for her lacking strength and skill by making the sword naturally flow with the movement of her hand while holding on to it. It was also the reason she could control her weapon without even having to hold on to it in the first place. Using both her silver and spirit affinities in conjunction had another major advantage, an advantage that might not have been quite apparent in Alyssa, but doubly so in her mother. As long as she used both of her affinities she was able to control a theoretically infinite amount of seperate pieces of silver within her range, as long as she had the material and magic power to do so, it was part of the reason her mother was called a one person army. If the person in front of her tried to do so, it wouldn't be his magic power but his mind that limited him. No matter how gifted one might be, precisely controlling ten or even a hundred different objects was impossible. But with spirit magic, all Alyssa had to do was specify her intent, she could leave the exact execution to the objects themselves.

She didn't feel like explaining all of that to the man in front of her though, she'd much rather keep some of the details about her magic to herself. So in the end, she answered with a rather dry. "I will keep it in mind."

She surveyed her surroundings as he walked away, specifically glancing at all three of her 'targets', eyes eventually settling on the harpy. From what little she had observed Nanalee was the most, well, loose-lipped, of the three of them. She approached, catching a line of conversation as she got closer. "Wait, Maika are you an ocean-dweller?" Perfect, if the conversation was already about the ocean all she had to do was jump in and make sure it stayed that way.

So, that's exactly what she did. "Sorry for interrupting, I heard you talking about the ocean. Do you have a lot of experience with the ocean?" She asked, addressing both Nanalee and the one she remembered as Maika.

 

[Spoiled Bread]

Maika
Location: Dark marsh expedition campsite

"Don't get too attached to the slime. Technically I conjure a different one each time I do a summon." Maika patted the slime on her head as she gave Nanalee a bit of a warning, Most people couldn't tell the difference between each slime but she can, each of them have some sort of unique chemical fingerprint. As to why she always summon a different one, she only had a few vague ideas about it.

It seemed Nanalee had just noticed her least humanoid features when she suddenly asked whether she's an ocean-dweller, then one of the other mercenary chimed in stating her interest with the topic. Alyssa Eckhart, Maika did notice the girl seemed to put most of her focus on Ymir so she was surprised to have the girl join their conversation.

"Yes, I was born in the depth and spent some years on a ship." Maika confirmed.

SilverFeathers Key of Stars

 

[Sylph]

Ymir
Mentions: Key of Stars SilverFeathers Megilagor Gaius Danius Griinia RatKing Spoiled Bread BFabulous Femboy Vanguard ​

Learning of their abilities, Ymir's uncertainties about the size of the group were quelled. None of them were new to combat situations, and more than a few were familiar with expeditions as a whole, easing the worry she'd held about actually leading a group. She'd put it off for so long after all. She didn't like the sense of responsibility, the obligation to each of them, knowing that if things went awry it was on her watch. But with this group perhaps she could learn to enjoy the experience. Every one of their abilities looked to be nothing but an asset.

Well, she'd maybe need to keep an eye on Wizard. She recalled him having somewhat of a reckless streak. Perhaps it was unfair to recall the condition she'd seen him in a couple years back, when he was still a newbie looking to prove himself. He'd returned to the guild bloodied and battered after fighting a boar on his own. She couldn't put her finger on why exactly she recalled it as he approached Alyssa to give what appeared to be advice--

Ah, no, she knew exactly why. It wasn't as frostbite-inducing as a certain Hower Academy headmistress, but Alyssa had that same, imperious aura of refinement. It spoke of someone with little patience for those who weren't of use or interest. And complete ruthlessness towards those in her way.

"I will keep it in mind," Alyssa said. Ymir felt like Wizard had gotten off lightly with just that.

Everyone else seemed to be making good progress towards establishing a dynamic. Maika and Nanalee appeared to be bonding over summons. The little blob that sat atop Maika's head was impossibly cute for someone so self-assured. Ymir struggled between both admiring the two adventurers and being unsettled by their presence, given how closely they resembled two of her worst fears.

Vyilki worried her. Not combat-wise, if the explanation of her abilities was anything to go off, but the giantess seemed rather reticent. Unused to making friends, if Ymir had to guess. It was the opposite of the last one to arrive. Chiharu had the sort of bubbly and endearing demeanor that would make her the life of a party. "-I forgot what I was saying!"

...if not a slight concern on the battlefield. Ymir offered a friendly welcome but quietly slotted her into the 'keep an eye on' category with Wizard. Despite their capabilities they seemed like the sort to encounter no end of troubles, and if Ymir was going to be responsible for a group then that included them.

"It might not be the best spear, but if anyone wants it then they are more than willing to take it." Sally was going to be useful to have around. Plant users had a reputation for being a useful asset to any team, but this was her first time meeting one who could us the skill to craft weaponry. Wizard promptly snatched up the spear in question, but Ymir would have to ask about it later. Apart from the glider strapped across her back, she carried only a plain staff for combat. Having more options available would be helpful.

That and Sally resembled Ruvo in a way, perhaps as a more confident version the avian. They both seemed like the type to hang back in combat, properly evaluating a situation to see where they were needed most. On the other hand, she knew that Ruvo could sometimes struggle with being thrown in the midst of things. He looked more comfortable with the size of the group now, but it was clear--maybe only for those who knew how to decipher bird expressions--that he'd been uncertain about it earlier. She'd have to see how Sally reacted when the circumstances changed.
"What are the researchers doing here?" Maika asked, turning from the conversation between herself and Nanalee, along with Alyssa who'd joined them. "We can track them better if we know what they're trying to do."

Ymir folded up her map, seeing as everyone had seen it, stowing it within a leatherbound folder of loose pages. The sun was starting to climb over the horizon, and with that the first signs of sweat were starting to coalesce. The air would soon be muggy as the cicadas grew ever louder.

"I will explain to everyone on the way," Ymir said, catching the group's attention. She hated to break up the conversations that had started but they needed to move. "Everyone gather your things!"

It was interesting to watch the bear-sized wolf respond like any other adventurer, rising silently to its feet as others like Maika gathered what little, skull-inscribed possessions they had lying around. They definitely weren't from Westridge, Ymir belatedly realised, as if their merfolk heritage wasn't proof enough. No sensible citizen within the kingdom would use such a symbol with the threat of Solmar still looming over them. It would be like inviting calamity.

Not that Ymir was superstitious or anything.

The one saving grace of the marsh was the countless exposed roots that stretched across it in a tangle of intricate pathways. If Ymir had to guess, it would be to stop the trees from drowning under the layers of stagnant water and muddy soil, but the scientists had explained that many of the 'roots' were in fact branches of a tree endemic to the region, that supported itself much like a vine, attaching to larger trees and growing outwards from there. In fact, the scientists had explained a great many things to her in the days she'd been preparing. Ymir had not wanted or needed to know the difference between a dart frog and a needle frog, but apparently it was worth spending an hour lecturing about it.

She explained to the group, while they were still on relatively flat ground, that the research teams were there to investigate the adaptive features of local species. The team they were after focused primarily on miasma toads--something about how they could filter and expel toxins from the water. But the first thing the adventuring party was going to do was follow the map to where the team's tracking stones were. By Ymir's estimate they could be there shortly before midday, provided there weren't any delays.

After that, talking to the group as a whole became difficult. The paths across the roots were narrow and covered in moss and fungal growths. Ymir chose the most secure looking trails, regularly switching between her primary sight and clairvoyance. She could keep track of those behind her that way, as well as making sure the path they were on didn't lead to a dead end in the water up ahead. It still required some jumping between roots, or dropping to a lower branch when they got too high, but it was still safer than wading through the water. Others amongst the group were welcome to take an alternative route. Some of the nimble or lighter ones might manage to hop across smaller roots without them giving way. As long as they didn't stray too far or end up in the water, Ymir didn't mind.

 

[RatKing]

Ruvo Steelfeather
Location: Traveling
Mentions: Sylph Femboy Gaius Danius Griinia​

“Toxin filtering toads?” he questioned. “How do those researchers even figure this kind of stuff out?” the bard commented as he carefully hopped between the tree roots, his talons and subtle gusts of wind here and there helping him from slipping off and into the water. He could only figure some researchers had spotted some of the toads in a toxic river or something somewhere and decided to organize the expedition to investigate further.

Ymir would keep the group on the safest and most direct path he had no doubt, but it was probably best not to distract her while they traveled. In the meantime perhaps he would strike up some small talk with another member of the expedition.

“Vyilki was it?” he called out to the giantess. There was something about the way that they had talked about their capabilities that reminded Ruvo a bit of himself. That closing statement of hoping their potential contribution wouldn’t be a waste or burden struck a chord so to speak. In the past he was quite prone to feelings of inadequacy like in Sigmar when he worked up a sweat dealing with simple overgrown plants while others cut them down with ease. If he could help quell such feelings in a fellow team member even by a little bit then he would try.

“Heard what you said around the campfire. You know, my magic is not terribly dazzling or showy either at least compared to someone like Wizard over there. But I’ve learned that even simple abilities can be quite useful in the right circumstances or if applied with some creativity. Just do your best and I’m sure it will all work out.” he said hoping to lift the spirits of his fellow expedition member.

 

[Gaius Danius Griinia]

The Wizard
Location: Swamp
Mentions: Megilagor

The Wizard left could see his unwarranted advice had produced the opposite effect to what he desired. Once again his inability to give constructive criticism made itself known. Unfortunately that was something that may not even be worth developing. Luckily he didn't have to deal with it given that they were now going to make their way through the swamp. The Wizard had made sure to read a few tomes on swamps and marshes to ensure he could still use his magic without much worry of it being adversely affected by the environment. His new spear was a perfect tool for slicing through vegetation preventing his passing. Since he had trained in staff combat under Crybaby Cylia. The Wizards movements with a polearm were precise and fast. Resting the weapon on his shoulder and hearing the sound of his boots crunching against sticks or squelching into marsh. He thanked the heavens he had elected to have these made from tough materials.

His own solitary thoughts were dragging him down. Thus the Wizard decided to try striking up a conversation with the one known as Sally. The conjurer of spears and master of plants. The Wizards quest in Sigmar had shown him the strength of the green. Plus living among the Orc Shamans had given him a deep understanding of druid culture. "Sally, have you heard of the dumbapple?" asked The Wizard whilst reminiscing on an adventure he had with Milby after the Waystone Guild first split apart. He'd followed her on a quest to save the Chinchilla people from an evil fruit selling company who wanted to turn their land into orchards. "Although their real name is the Banora White. Their tendency to bloom at irregular times has earned them the name Dumbapples from the locals of Banora. A rather adventurous chinchilla the Wizard knows once ate thrice her body weight in them" uttered the magus while taking out his journal to show the plant mage a sketch of the abnormal blue and white apple.

 

[Spoiled Bread]

Maika
Location: Dark marsh expedition campsite

Carrying her briefcase on her left hand and lifting her incense jar on her right, Maika followed the group as they start their trip towards the first spot. Ymir explained that the researchers' goal had something to do with miasma toad, a creature she never see before. She was definitely intrigued by their supposed properties of removing toxin from water, that would surely be useful for her if she can get herself on one of the toad.

As the terrain became even more difficult to traverse, Maika spent more time looking at the ground rather than looking forward. Always picking the route where she could see where she's sliding on. There's no shoes for someone like her so she must relies on careful footing to avoid danger from below. She also realized that it would be good for her to have something to poke around in this kind of environment. She looks around for a certain herbalist and saw him talking to the hat wizard.

"Sally, isn't it? Do you mind creating something a bit more specific for me?" The merfolk approached the two and stated her request.

"I want a staff with three-pronged end. A trident, you can say. For snakes."

Sylph Megilagor Gaius Danius Griinia

 

[Megilagor]

Sally
Location: Dark Marsh- Swamp
Mentions: @ Gaius Danius Griinia Spoiled Bread
​

As Ymir told them to pack up so did Sally comply, albeit he already had everything on him he still double-checked if it was secure before going with everyone forward with Ymir as their leader.
Their path while not being the comfiest did remind Sally of the area where he lived, the marsh area of Tir Na Nog was his home after all.
So traversing this path wasn't hard for him, yes he did sometimes use his plant magic to help himself along the way making some branches stretch out to give him a foothold or making vegetation spread out to clear the way.
And as they walked a fellow member of the expedition came to him with a simple question that baffled him, said person was of course Wizard.
" I can't say I've heard of Dumbapple before."
Answered Sally, according to what he knew he didn't know any plant named as such albeit it could be slang.
After a little bit as Wizard explained what he knew about it a few cogs began to move in Sally's mind before he spoke again.
" Ah Banora White, sadly I don't know much about this plant perhaps aunty Nao would know something but I've eaten its relative Banora Violet. Quite a tasty fruit I tell ya' although it is a pretty strong detox so if you eat too much you will get sick and puke out pretty much everything you ate that day, their genus in general is addictive in nature. In the conclave, I hail from they call them nature pulse fruit, mainly because those with an affinity to plant magic can feel a pulse coming from those trees each time a new fruit ripens. I can tell you it is a weird feeling at first but you can get used to it, also we still don't know why it happens it just does. Mystery of the world I guess."
And as he spoke a bit of saliva flowed from his mouth down to his cheek when remembering the taste of the fruit, but he quickly cleaned it hoping no one saw that.

Not shortly after the sea-dwelling fellow by the name of Maika came about to request something from him.
"Hmm, Yes.... Maika correct. I mean I can certainly try but I'm no master at my craft so forgive me if it will end up being a bit crude."
Sally gave a quick reply before stopping for a bit to listen to Maika's request.
"A trident you say, it will certainly fit a lass such as you, but I don't know if it will work for snakes, I should know I'm part snake after all. But sure I'll make you one. Just give me a bit."
And as he told he did, Sally raised his staff a bit before tapping a nearby branch with it a few times while using his plant magic to grow and shape it into what could be called a trident albeit the ends were twisted to create a stabbing point it could still be called one. Although the craft was swift since Sally used already living and thick branch for this.
"Here ya' go, Maika. But we should probably hasten our steps since we are a bit behind everyone. Sadly I can't use my plant magic while moving at my normal pace, so I prefer to stand still while doing so, it also helps with concentration."
As Sally picked up the wooden trident he just made, he started talking and he handed the trident to Maika before resuming his walk in a bit of a faster pace to catch up to the rest.

 

[SilverFeathers]

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7​

• 1
• 2
• Notes

• 
• 
• Location
  Dark Marsh - Expedition Campsite -> Deeper Marsh w/ Ymir, Za, Vyilkihild, Wizard, Maika, Alyssa, Sally, Ahni & Chiharu
  
  Mentions
  Spoiled Bread Key of Stars Megilagor

Scrollbox ->

"That's interesting. Maybe they like giving each other a turn in visiting this plane." Nanalee pondered idly after Maika's comment towards her slimes, subconsciously likening them to her spirits.

Alyssa's sudden intervention drew little attention from the harpy, whose eyes twinkled as she focused her gaze on Maika's tendrils. Recalling the times when her wings had turned into similar appendages, causing her a right nightmare on the sea floor, she couldn't help but chuckle fondly at the memory. Although it did also feel a little bittersweet, knowing that she could never experience that colourful world again.

Realizing she was staring at someone's feet for an unnaturally long period of time, the harpy started and turned her gaze back to the pair before her. Addressing the silver-haired and silver-wielding elf first, she smiled as she spoke. "Not at all! I've only been on a ship once. Unless you count my fishing prowess, I was always a great ocean hunter for my tribe." Nanalee puffed up her wing feathers with a bit of pride. "I have seen what it's like under the ocean once though, it's a magical place. I'm envious of those of you that can visit that world whenever you want." She smiled with curved eyes, before turning back to Maika. "A learned sailor huh? Feel like I know who someone might get along with you." Nanalee chuckled, wondering how Leo was doing after all this time.

---

In classic Nanalee fashion, the harpy didn't have much of an inventory at all, used to just making do with what she could find in the environment around her. Whilst watching and waiting for everyone to pack their things, she merely played with Bal, who continued to sit docilely on her head. Usually she'd avoid wasting her mana by keeping her spirits out, but considering the size of the group, Nanalee couldn't help but feel rather lax. It was always nice to let her companions see the world more anyway, especially in a region as unique as this.

Considering how Ymir said she would explain things as they travelled, Nanalee restrained herself from soaring into the air above the trees, following after the group as she lightly flew from root to root. Her talons were much larger than ordinary feet, hence she had to pick and choose her landing spots carefully. Over time, it ended up a fun little exercise to keep herself alert during the trek. Although she didn't particularly mind getting dirty, she couldn't say she was fond of the sensation when her talons squelched in the marshland upon first arrival. Thinking it resembled the feeling of stepping in snow at first, felt like an insult.

Glancing beside her for a moment, she noticed that Maika and... um... what was his name again, had stopped moving. Deciding to wait and keep an eye out for them, just in case of any lurking danger, Nanalee stared at the plant-manipulating stranger as she scratched her head, realizing she had spent too much of her time trying her best to remember the others' more complicated names, like Vyilki and Chiharu. Sighing, with Bal patting her head, Nanalee gave them a little wave as they hurried to catch up with the group, before re-focusing her attention back on the trek forward.

 

[Key of Stars]

Alyssa Enren
Mentions: SilverFeathers Sylph RatKing
​

Alyssa sighed lightly, making sure no one else would hear it. Honestly, she'd give just about anything to be back on board the Golden Dream right now. She wasn't homesick, she just really, really hated the swamp. She'd committed everything Ymir told them about the mission to memory without a word. If they had to complete a mission in this blasted area she was at the very least going to make sure she would do well and obtain at least a little bit of attention from the higher-ups through it.

She moved along as a brisk pace, thinking about what her next course of action in the matter of the Lord of the Dead would be. Her conversation with the harpy had been cut short because of their departure, and she'd been left without getting the opportunity to continue her line of questioning. Still, she could hardly ask the same question again, but she also didn't want to switch targets. Ymir seemed by far the most cautious out of the three and on top of that the white haired woman was busy leading the expeditions through the swamp. The feathered bard seemed somewhat less cautious but he was already engaged in conversation.

So, she decided to breach the subject in a different way. Catching up to Nanalee wasn't difficult, though it might have been if the harpy had decided to use her wings fully instead of simple hopping from one root to the other. Alyssa herself barely worried about the ground or air beneath her, having controlled over half of her silver into two small floating platforms about the size of her feet, the platforms moved under her feet with every step she took, allowing her to walk as if she was on completely flat ground no matter how rough, uneven or even not present the actual ground was.

"Excuse me," She started as she got close to the harpy yet again. "I had meant to ask you something before, but our conversation ended up getting cut short." She started with a small and somewhat political smile. "I have been wondering, do you happen to know Leonard Hower?" It was the only way she could think of to breach the topic again and steer the conversation in the direction she wanted it to go. Leonard Hower was well-known enough among those who frequented the seas, though more so because of his last name than because of his achievements, that it wouldn't be too suspicious of a question.

 

[Femboy]

Vyilkihild
5


It seemed that the travelling group was starting to pick up on wherever they were supposed to go, Vyilki trying to hear out what Ymir had to say about the mission briefing on their way through the swamp. It felt like a truly vile and disgusting place, like the aftermath of a toxic abomination's chaos. To whom would desire to even create such a fungal moss-covered toilet of a demi-rainforest? It rather peaked her mind as to what in the region could even pose such a larger danger since she hadn't seen much that it looked like large predatory life could sustain on, unless traveller activity was so present in the area whereas something had decided to take advantage of the circumstances. As she found herself having to trudge through the thicket of undesirable to the touch plantlife, she could hear continued conversation about the fabled oceans that she so hears are supposed to be a wonderful thing that was stemming from Nanalee and Maika which was added to by Alyssa's attempt to steer the conversation to some person that the giantess couldn't possibly feign interest about. Perhaps it was because she wasn't experienced, but who could care about a massive pool of water you couldn't even drink from? She understood the world was a wonderous place, but so much life and sources of important resources was nowhere to be seen at an ocean that it seemed ludicrous to spend ones life there. Then again, the white tundra and the insides of already inhabited caves wasn't exactly a braggable sight either. At least she felt her home was connected to the world, for being so untied from the world and any given society felt like a completely alien idea. Spending such a long time on some large floating vessel sounded ridiculously wasteful of practical matters, plus living off fish and sea life sounded disgusting. The ocean was such a big body of water, who knows what people have done in it, and someone would want to eat these creatures that had nary a thought in their tiny minds? Gross.

Her selfdoubt and being stuck in thoughts was noticably caught by a rather perceptive avian, the one of the two who didn't seem overly hyperactive for a trip through such a dreary environment. "Vyilki was it?" was the first thing she heard before she turned her attention to him. She could recall someone in the group being called Ruvo, but she wasn't entirely convinced whether or not it was his name. Clearly she realised she had been more distracted than she thought if placing names to faces was a struggle, but she couldn't have been expected to immediately remember so many people after meeting them. "Heard what you said around the campfire. You know, my magic is not terribly dazzling or showy either at least compared to someone like Wizard over there. But I’ve learned that even simple abilities can be quite useful in the right circumstances or if applied with some creativity. Just do your best and I’m sure it will all work out" Ruvo had spoken in attempts to lighten her spirits, which did bring a small smile to her face although she had tried to somewhat subtley cover it with her hand. "Things like that aren't like what I'm used to hearing, although I feel that would mean a lot more to people with unique or useful talents, but I'm thankful that you would say that, Taalkavis." she answered in response, before trying to answer that Taalkavis was just a thing in her people's language and it didn't mean anything bad as an attempt to cover up remembering specific names.

She wasn't lying by any means by calling Ruvo 'Taalkavis' to be negative or insulting, but it was a put together way of essentially saying "bird bard" in her tongue. It might've been easier if she could catch on nicknames, but she was swearing to herself she'd try to remember the next time Ruvo and others were referred to by name to at least fact-check herself on if she recalled correctly. Hopefully she would find a pencil and paper or something to write it down. "I would suppose someone eccentric enough to dub themselves a new name after a proficiency of witchcraft would probably try to be flashy, but surely yours is not unlike. You are a bard after all correct? Is partly performance or a talented practition perfectly utiled not your specialty?" Vyilki asked to change the conversation somewhere else from her moment of self-doubt. Perhaps learning more about said travelling companions or whatever previous adventures they had travelled on would enlighten her with answers she didn't know she was looking for.

Mentions: Ymir, Nanalee, Maika, Alyssa, Wizard
Interactions: Ruvo RatKing ​

 

[BFabulous]

Chiharu decided to stay at the back of the party to observe her fellow adventures and used the higher roots to stay away from the marsh water. She didn't want to be near the blood-sucking insects or accidentally fall in, although the enchanting scent of her perfume would ward off the bugs. A mix of lavender & bergamot, Chiharu chose it specifically as they're a natural bug repellant and it gave her a soft floral scent that she loved. However, there is the potential that her scent would stick out compared to other scents within the marsh.

As Chiharu observed the others, she noted what they were saying, how they were acting, and who knew who. She tended to be forgetful more often times than not so she frequently carried a small notebook and a couple of pens or pencils to jot down her thoughts. She took special note of the other species as she did not have many interactions with people other than humans, and the few that she did were in training and she didn't take much time to converse with others.

Ymir - Obviously well versed in adventuring. I can't wait to see what she can do in a fight! She was looking at me funny...She probably thought I was lying about being a bad cook. She said something about her ability to see things around her based on her wind affinity. I wonder how that works?
Dog - Is it just a big wolf dog...Where can I get want!? What if we become so close I could summon it from my shadow...I NEED ONE NOW!
Volki? Vilki? Valki? V - I don't know what she (?) is, but her horns & muscles are beautiful. Possibly religious? Probably could rip a tree out of the ground...I would love to see that. LEARN PROPER WAY TO SAY NAME!
Weird Man - Well versed in magic it seems...Weird. What's his name?
Nanalay or Nanalee - A harpy? She's very inviting and her wings are beautiful. They're like a stormy sky cascading into a blizzard. She's a spirit summoner and her constructs are adorable. Why does everybody get cute pets? I wonder how fast and how high she can fly. Talons are talons, but her wings are probably sensitive...Could she coat her wings in ice as a defensive measure or would it weigh her down?
Kenku - Didn't get his name, but I think he's a musician. If I remember correctly Kenku's can mimic some sounds. I wonder what kind of music he plays. Would it be good with an aged melon wine?
Myka? Mayca? Maika - An ocean dweller! I haven't seen much of any people from the ocean. I wonder what their culture is like. Is their government the same or different? She's really cute but those tentacles (?) creep me out! SHE ALSO HAS PETS! She apparently stated what she could do before, but I missed it. Those tentacles could be dangerous if used right.
Silver Elf - Missed her name, but I want a pendant! She looks vaguely familiar, but I can't quite put my finger on it. She seems to be very interested in Ymir or just very diligent. Maybe she has seen something we haven't
Sally - A beastkin...I think. Snake? He? They? She? They have scales, so I assume they are at least reptilian. Their plant magic is extremely useful, especially here. The spear they created may not be re ornate, but if they practiced Sally would be able to create poisons at the drop of a hat.
The weird man mentioned a dumbapple. I wonder what that tastes like and if you could turn it into a wine!

Chiharu closed her notebook and slipped it into her dark inventory. Chiharu quickened her pace and dropped down from the higher roots, landing near Ymir she decided to observe her a little closer. From what Chiharu could see Ymir was just closing and opening her eyes occasionally so she just assumed Ymir was using her ability,"Excuse me, Miss Ymir. I don't mean to pry, but what are you doing? You said earlier that you would see our surroundings using your air affinity, correct? May I ask how you accomplish that? And how long have you been adventuring?" Chiharu chirped sweetly. She wasn't going to pretend that she wasn't watching the older woman, but even if she did there was no point since she had probably seen Chiharu.

Interactions
Sylph

Mentions
Femboy Key of Stars SilverFeathers RatKing Spoiled Bread Megilagor Vanguard Gaius Danius Griinia​

 

[SilverFeathers]

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7​

• 1
• 2
• Notes

• 
• 
• Location
  Dark Marsh - Expedition Campsite -> Deeper Marsh w/ Ymir, Za, Vyilkihild, Wizard, Maika, Alyssa, Sally, Ahni & Chiharu
  
  Mentions
  Key of Stars

"No worries, Alyssa right?" Nanalee greeted once more with a welcoming smile, marvelling at the silvery platforms materializing beneath her fellow light-haired companion's feet. She silently wondered if her little magic trick could handle her weight as well, but after glancing at the size of her talons and wings, she felt it'd be too burdensome to even ask.

"Oh, Leo? Yeah I know him! He's a fun guy. Sparred with me once. Haven't seen him for more than a year now though." She pondered out loud, her gaze straying from the elf towards Ymir patrolling in the distance. "You'd be better off asking our captain. I believe they were dating, or at least used to be." She thought to herself, faintly recalling how Eiru had revealed that information to her when she had first met the pair. What she failed to remember however, was how Leo tried to correct that misunderstanding shortly after.

"How do you know of him by the way? Is he that famous?" The harpy pondered, not exactly knowledgeable of such matters, although she faintly recalled the revelation that their goofy friend seemed to have been from some huge influential family. Even back in Aestir, she might not be able to name or point out celebrities, much less those renowned in Lantana. Nanalee could do nothing but scratch her head at the thought. "Though I never heard much of it, his poetry was quite fun to listen to I suppose." She commented idly, her thoughts de-railing towards his talents rather than his heritage.

 

[RatKing]

Ruvo Steelfeather
Mentions: Femboy Gaius Danius Griinia​

"Things like that aren't like what I'm used to hearing, although I feel that would mean a lot more to people with unique or useful talents, but I'm thankful that you would say that, Taalkavis." the giantess replied with what sounded like a chipper tone and perhaps a small smile, though he couldn’t quite tell for sure with Vyilki being quick to hide their reaction. Ruvo didn’t agree that kind words were better reserved for people who had more ‘useful’ or ‘unique’ talents, but he wasn’t going to press the topic further for the time being.

“Taalkavis?” he questioned being unfamiliar with the word. Then seemingly catching that they had slipped into their native tongue, Vyilki was quick to explain that it was just a term from their language and that they did not mean disrespect by using it. “Oh. Well tell you what, if it’s easier for you to remember me by that nickname then it’s alright if you use it for now” he said with a slight chuckle.

"I would suppose someone eccentric enough to dub themselves a new name after a proficiency of witchcraft would probably try to be flashy, but surely yours is not unlike. You are a bard after all correct? Is partly performance or a talented practition perfectly utiled not your specialty?" He had heard similar things in the past from guild members and others alike. Bards were often expected to be the life of any party, flashy, exciting, and the most outgoing person in the room. In contrast Ruvo was often more quiet and reserved, but that didn’t mean he loved his craft any less than a more boisterous bard.

“Yes, I am a bard" he confirmed Vyilki’s suspicion. "Though I wouldn't say Wizard and I are too alike because of that. I mean... I perform with my instrument sure but I don't make a big show of it" he paused for a moment thinking back to that one night in the base camp on the Sacred Isles. Did that count as a big show? Granted he wasn't performing alone at the time, but there were a lot of drinks. He shook his head deciding not to linger on the thought. "Don't get me wrong though, I am a fond of fancier clothes, well preened feathers, and a nice applause but I’m not a fan of charming people or always being the center of attention either” he continued. “I prefer sitting in a tavern and playing my music or telling stories of adventures to those who would gather and listen. I guess I'm okay with not always standing out in a spectacular fashion you know?" he asked wondering if his explanation made any sense and also hoping that he didn't overwhelm the giantess with his reply.

 

[Key of Stars]

Alyssa Enren
Mentions: SilverFeathers Sylph ​

Alyssa nodded. "Yes, Alyssa Eckhart." She confirmed for the harpy. Nanalee's interest in the small platforms beneath her feet did not escape her notice and she briefly wondered if she could earn even more of her trust if she were to create platforms for Nanalee as well. She quickly discarded the idea, even if she wanted to, she didn't have enough silver to create two more platforms. And even if she did, it would be a lot harder to control the platforms to precisely move under Nanalee's feet compared to her own, not impossible, but definitely more difficult.

She lightly smiled to herself when Nanalee mentioned she knew Leonard Hower, a smile that changed into an expression of confusion when the harpy continued and mentioned that Ymir and Leonard Hower had dated before. She inwardly heaved a sigh of relief, now she was truly glad she hadn't outright asked Ymir about it. If the two of them split on good terms, it wouldn't be too bad, though she doubted Ymir would give her much information. But if the two of them had split on bad terms, that would have been a truly awkward conversation. She wanted information, she didn't want to hear how either great or terrible Leonard Hower was as a person.

"Well," She pondered the question for a moment, thinking of what to say. "Not really, his sister is more famous than he is. But..." She paused, poetry? Surely she'd misheard, why would a son of the Hower family be out on a different continent reciting poetry? ... No seriously, poetry? She forcefully pushed the thought to the side, at the end of the day she couldn't care less what Leonard Hower did in his life. "There's one thing people always talk about," She started again. "I've been told Leonard Hower took down the Lord of the Dead singlehandedly, I was wondering if you know anything about that?" That wasn't true, Leonard Hower wasn't rumored to have done dogshit, well, aside from being part of the group that was rumored to be there when Wyck was defeated. Alyssa simply figured this was the easiest way to steer the conversation where she wanted it to go.

 

[Sylph]

Ymir
Mentions: BFabulous Key of Stars SilverFeathers ​

The air of the marsh hadn't changed. If anything, without the buffer of tents and flat land the mournful croaks and relentless chirp of cicadas were far closer. The humidity grew with every inch the sun rose. But, as they moved through the network of roots and branches that made the understory of the marsh, Ymir's impressions about the journey began to shift. She hadn't expected the delicate pathways above the water to be so varied. Even if she chose the correct one, there were still patches of moss to slip on, unexpected residents poking their heads out of holes, the risk of rotting branches to drop them into the water. The uniqueness of it was... fun. Different to the painstaking experience of cutting through a jungle.

"Excuse me, Miss Ymir." Chiharu finally spoke. Ymir had been wondering if she would. The darkness user was difficult to keep track of, given her agility and general tendency to blink in and out of existence. Except for the past while she'd been trailing rather close, always on an adjacent branch or a higher one.
 
"I don't mean to pry, but what are you doing? You said earlier that you would see our surroundings using your air affinity, correct?" Ymir was somewhat surprised to hear a query about her abilities. It wasn't by any means universal, but certain clairvoyants found it rude to be questioned, and as a result she'd gotten used to being the first to proffer any information on her sight. "May I ask how you accomplish that? And how long have you been adventuring?"

It was strange, but despite her high quality garments and fluent way of speaking, Chiharu reminded Ymir of someone who'd come from the countryside to the big city for the first time. She had that kind of unabashed curiosity about the world, as if she'd been cut off from it.

"How long?" Ymir mused, dispelling her thoughts. That was a scary question—it felt old to say. "It's been... close to nine years now. I joined my first guild after leaving the Academy."

Her sight was tricker to explain. She closed her eyes, as she often did, examining the surroundings. "...your darkness affinity probably has a similar effect at times," she said eventually. "When you phase through objects, to a certain degree you have to sense what you're phasing through, right?" She couldn't dive through rock that was too thick, but if there was a thin cave wall, or hidden hallway that she could reach... Ymir wondered if Chiharu would sense that too. Perhaps because of her body affinity she'd need to be touching whatever it was she intended to phase through.

"It's difficult to explain. Have you ever been in a house you're so familiar with, that you can close your eyes and still visualise the layout?" Like how goblins saw so well in the dark—a vivid outline as opposed to texture and colour. "It's similar, though in my case I actually see it." Some of the details faded as Ymir opened her eyes, keeping her ability active. The shapes and colours in front of her sharpened by comparison as she looked over at Chiharu. "I don't really need to keep them closed. It just helps me see the environment behind me more clearly." Opening her eyes revealed the soft, sun-like glow that overtook them whenever her sight was active. "Honestly, it's based more on my second affinity, but it's easiest to explain if I say anything the air touches, I can see an outline of."

The back of her neck prickled somewhat, as if she were being watched... or talked about. She glanced over her shoulder, checking on the spread-out group with her proper sight. The silver mage was still using her abilities to walk along the air rather than touch the roots, talking dispassionately to a cheery Nanalee. Ymir was beginning to wonder if this Alyssa person just really liked birds. Despite her cold exterior, she'd been more open to talking with Nanalee and Ruvo over anyone else in the group.

Turning her gaze forwards once more, Ymir had to make a quick decision on whether to follow the current path or switch to another one. The root they were on seemed to lead to a small clearing, but there was an alternate, albeit longer, route that avoided touching the ground. There wasn't anything wrong with the clearing that she could detect, but after travelling along the branches for so long it felt strange to go back onto solid earth.

"What about you, Chiharu? What sort of experiences did you have prior to this?" She decided to keep on their current trajectory. If all went well they might be able to use the clearing to rest, since most of the group probably weren't acclimatised to the humid weather. The heat and muggy air could be draining even for those who were, and Ymir preferred they weren't on their last legs should they end up encountering a threat.

 

[Spoiled Bread]

Maika
Location: Dark marsh

"Hah, that reminds me of a little anecdote we have back in my place." Maika commented as she watched creates the spear, an amused chuckle escaped her lips. "It is said that the first king of the merfolk was so afraid of sea snake he invented the three-pronged spear to keep them away. Later the generals would modify the design to the trident we know today and popularize it."

Receiving the trident from Sally, the merfolk played around with it to gauge its properties. Instead of grabbing it with her arms Maika hold the weapon with two of her tendrils, if she were to attack with it her stabs would come from a much lower angle compared to regular people. Last she examined the twisted tips of the trident before concluding with a nod.

"Thank you. This should suffice." As they resumed their walk Maika started using the spear to prod anything that might hide something inside it. Like puddle of water or bushes.

"Oh, right, Sally. You said you are part snake right? Can you make your own venom then? I collect toxins from all source, for research." She tapped her briefcase before pulling a small vial from her coat. "If you're willing I can trade you something for a bit of sample."

Megilagor

 

[SilverFeathers]

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7​

• 1
• 2
• Notes

• 
• 
• Location
  Dark Marsh - Expedition Campsite -> Deeper Marsh w/ Ymir, Za, Vyilkihild, Wizard, Maika, Alyssa, Sally, Ahni & Chiharu
  
  Mentions
  Key of Stars

At Alyssa's consequent question, Nanalee almost toppled over. "W-wait, what? That's a rumour?" She sputtered in disbelief, fortunately managing to catch a hand on a crinkly old branch for support. "Who would have spread that... Leo?" She pondered aloud, faintly recalling the social butterfly that he was. But, after all that happened on that expedition... she didn't genuinely think he'd spread such an untrue rumour. Perhaps his family did? Which is why he was famous?

Shaking her head and focusing back on Alyssa, she responded with a wry chuckle. "That's not true, it was actually-" Nanalee suddenly cut herself short, pausing completely in her movements like a statue as she realized something. Was... that rumour spread to protect Eiru? Nanalee knew Eiru, Ymir and Leo had a deeper history, and were close due to adventuring together multiple times. Nanalee herself was nothing more than a newbie at the time, still is actually, but stumbled upon that witch's shocking true identity alongside the others due to being a member of the expedition. Ymir and Leo must've only found out that day for a reason too... it must be a closely-guarded secret.

A metaphorical zip appeared on the harpy's mouth, as she internally panicked on how to finish her sentence. After opening and closing her mouth a few times, like a fish gasping for air, she finally managed to speak. "...it was actually due to a powerful relic found on the sea floor." She concluded vaguely and dismissively, with a hesitant tone that made it clear she didn't want to speak further on the matter. It wasn't an outright lie, but in all honesty, Nanalee wasn't sure if mentioning the relic was appropriate either. Was that something that should be kept under wraps as well? She had no clue... she should ask Ymir later. She was the responsible one after all.

 

[Megilagor]

Sally
Location: Dark Marsh- Swamp
Mentions: Spoiled Bread
​

Sally waved back to Nanalee as she came around to check on them with a small smile on his face.
And as he walked towards the rest of the group he listened attentively to Maikas words after all, they were comrades now and seeing she is somewhat similar to him he felt it was needed.
"Hmm oh yes I am part snake, don't know actually what kind of snake but still. I do make my own venom in fact, albeit mine is a bit special compared to other snake people so to say."
Sally responded at to Maikas question with a puzzled look on his face, after all not even he or his adoptive parents knew what kind of snake he was, and why his venom is different to others.
"Oh I'm more than willing to trade but you will have to wait a bit my venom is quite viscous and concentrated, honestly its consistency is the same as honey so it will take a while to fill that vial."
Having said that Sally retrieved the vial from Maika with a little bow after all culture was needed even in this situation.
Having the vial in his hand Sally opened it with one hand putting the cork into his little pocket on his chest, and then he put the vial up to his fang.
The venom flowed slowly, but not wanting to be left behind again because of it he kept on walking while releasing his venom into the vial.
A long few minutes passed before he filled the vial half way but it felt like it was his limit, so he corked the vial and handed it to Maika while saying.
"Here you go. Sadly it's only half a vial since I didn't produce much of it since the last time someone asked me for it. As for its effects, I'm honestly not so sure all I know is it's got quite a potent numbing effect, but it doesn't carry paralytic effects, and blood clots quite fast with it so I often just use it on injured people when I'm low on herbs."
Explained the young one, while thinking about what he wanted in exchange for his venom, but it was as if a firefly lit up above his head, he had an idea.
"And as trade can you give me something that preserves plants better? Im asking mainly cause I get quite tired if I try to use plant magic without well, plants around, conjuring them takes more out of me than making one grow from seed to suit what I need it to do."
It was the truth that he spoke, and yet it felt like he lacked something in those words, but that was not what was important right now, after all they can't get too lax they are on a rescue expedition after all.
So after all that he tried his best to look out for any signs of activity other than their groups.

 

[Key of Stars]

Alyssa Enren
Mentions: SilverFeathers ​

It didn't escape Alyssa's notice that Nanalee backpedaled on her answer. Then again, how could it have escaped her notice? The harpy was about as obviously struggling for words as one could be, opening and closing her mouth multiple times. In the end, she gave a half-assed answer, making it more than clear she didn't want to speak about the matter anymore. Alyssa resisted the urge to punch a nearby tree in annoyance. If you're going to start a sentence at least have the decency to finish it! Even if you're saying something you shouldn't!

Still, the information that a powerful relic had been at play, if it was true, was interesting. She and Beck had heard of no such thing in their information gathering. But that clearly wasn't the only reason Wyck had gotten defeated, if it was, Nanalee wouldn't have sounded quite so hesistant.

She stayed silent for a moment, making up her mind. She was going to do what she didn't plan on doing ever again, cry. Well, fake it, to play on the harpy's empathy. Because unlike Alyssa herself, Nanalee seemed to possess quite a bit of it.

"I understand," She answered with a dejected nod. "I am sorry for asking if it something you do not wish to talk about, you see..." She curled her hand into a fist, letting her very real rage and very fake sorrow seep into her voice. "The lord of the dead has taken more from me than I will ever be able to reclaim by taking his head. So..." She wiped away a rather convincing fake tear. "When it comes to that bastard I want to have any and all information that will help me take him down one day." She said, letting her actual hateful emotions towards the lord take over in her voice. If one day she could, she definitely would gladly drive her silver blade right into Wyck's brain and reduce the Lord of the Dead into a unmoving corpse once and for all.

"I'm sorry for asking you a difficult question, I was just so hopeful, you know? Hopeful that the rumors were true, that Leonard Hower would be able to help me finish that bastard of once and for all." Dogshit, she resisted the urge to laugh. Leonard Hower help her take down Wyck? The deadbeat useless heir of the Hower family? Who now turned out to have been busy writing silly poems in his time away from home.

She decided to lay it on just that little bit more. Mentally instructing her silver rabbit companion to snuggle up against her cheek. She flashed a tired smile, letting a tear freely roll down her cheek. "Thank you Husk, you're all I have left now." She turned back to Nanalee right after. "Again, I'm sorry for asking about a topic you didn't want to talk about." She said, her tone almost mirroring how calm she actually was, if not for the sadness and teary eyes she was putting on.

 

[BFabulous]

Chiharu
The humidity and the sun's rising strength were beginning to get Chiharu, although it did remind her of when she was younger. Before she was shunned and showed what her parents deemed as potential, the family would join the other nobles on promenades to gossip and pretend to enjoy each other's company. The adult's words would always pass Chiharu's ears without being caught as her priority at that time was to find the best shelter from the sun as her parasols and hand fans weren't cutting, and just as the heated memories flashed in the young woman's mind her reflexes kicked in as she crafted a hand fan from the shadow in her leave. It was flimsy and weak so the slightest bit of sunlight hitting pierced holes in but she only created to alleviate some of the heat.

"How long?" The question appeared to surprise Ymir, which to Chiharu meant she could be in for a few stories."It's been... close to nine years now. I joined my first guild after leaving the Academy." Chiharu's eyes lit up like stars in the night sky and in her excitement, she slipped off the vine but was able to create a few quick footholds from darkness. As she regained her posture, Chiharu chuckled with the fan covering her blushing face,"Hehe, I meant to do that..." She attempted to laugh it off although she was obviously embarrassed. "Nine years, you say!? Woow... You must've seen so much! W-where have you been?" The young woman was absolutely giddy, although she attempted to hide it behind her fan, at the potential to hear a story from Ymir's adventures as it gave Chiharu hope for her possible future of adventuring.

"...your darkness affinity probably has a similar effect at times," Chiharu's brows raised with intrigue "When you phase through objects, to a certain degree you have to sense what you're phasing through, right?" Chiharu stopped in her tracks for a second. She had never actively thought about,"I-I uh...," fanning herself and her thoughts Chiharu regained her composure,"Yes, but I never thought about It consciously. at least. I've perceived my ability as something akin to breathing. Once I learned I could do it, I guess I subconsciously avoided phasing through things I wasn't positive of space on the other side." This small revelation truly made Chiharu think deeper about the potential of her ability to phase. A better understanding of what she was capable of was definitely needed, but she probably wasn't gonna take the risk in the field.

"It's difficult to explain. Have you ever been in a house you're so familiar with, that you can close your eyes and still visualize the layout?" The Konoe's winter vacation manor was the first thing that popped into Chiharu's mind. There were plenty of times she had wandered its halls going in and out of drunken stupors, but most times she was able to make it to her bedroom without help."It's similar, though in my case I actually see it. I don't really need to keep them closed. It just helps me see the environment behind me more clearly." When Ymir turned to Chiharu, the glow from her eyes although subtle, was still strong enough to disintegrate a piece of Chiharu's dark fan. Maybe it was a mix of the sunlight, Ymir's glow, and the flimsy crafting. Chiharu snapped it close and reopened it as she released a labored breath,"Oh I get it! It's like when you close your eyes to better appreciate food or drinks. You diminish one sense for another!"
Chiharu's attention fell from Ymir as the other woman's focus shifted away from the newbie adventurer. The sun wasn't being kind and her shabby hand fan wasn't cutting through the heat enough, although her loos clothing provided some reprieve but not much since there wasn't a cool breeze coming through."What about you, Chiharu? What sort of experiences did you have prior to this?"

"Huh?" Chiharu absent-mindedly slipped again as the only truthful answer was she had slit a few throats, but that wasn't something she could blurt out. Quickly recomposing herself, she once again partially hid her face with the fan but this time wasn't from embarrassment,"Haho...Uh...I don't actually have any experience. I just decided to take a few combat lessons and go on an adventure...BUT!"Chiharu leaned in with a serious glare,"If you need a recommendation for a good wine, I think I have one of the best palates in all the lands!"

Sylph

 

[Sylph]

Ymir
Mentions: Key of Stars SilverFeathers Megilagor Gaius Danius Griinia RatKing Spoiled Bread BFabulous Femboy ​

They'd made good progress. The air sweltered as it approached the hottest part of the day, but they'd make their destination by early afternoon. Ymir's eyes glowed as she considered the choices ahead of them. She turned, gaze flickering over the different members of their group. Nanalee seemed frantic over something with Alyssa, but before anything could come of it Ymir's attention snapped to Chiharu's falter. The girl recovered quickly, but Ymir had to remind herself to breathe out, easing the tension in her shoulders as she turned forward again.

"Nine years, you say!?" Chiharu's gaze glittered behind the fan she'd crafted, the shadows forming a texture like smoke and silk. Her eyes were bright, for someone with a darkness affinity. "Woow... You must've seen so much! W-where have you been?"

"Hmm-" Ymir dropped onto a lower branch, finally able to see the clearing ahead of them without assistance. "That's a long list... the Temple of Seraphina was pretty memorable." Though the Ashlands were a hellish place to visit. The entire region was a blasted furnace, the ground superheated by reservoirs of magma. "It was built by fire titans, so the scale of it is beyond belief. But most recently I've been exploring the Wastelands." Which, apparently, had as many different types of deserts as Westridge had forests.

"Oh I get it! It's like when you close your eyes to better appreciate food or drinks. You diminish one sense for another!" Ymir paused, blinking at the fearsome looking caterpillar on a vine hanging in front of her. It was at least the size of her forearm, several spines protruding from its sparse fuzz.

"That's probably the best comparison for it I've heard," she admitted, ducking underneath the vegetation. She couldn't recall ever closing her eyes to better appreciate a meal, but the principle resonated. "You must be fond of good food."

Chiharu's response about their own adventures did not fill Ymir with vast swathes of confidence. Combat classes rarely translated well onto the field. "BUT-" As if detected her thoughts, the girl stopped a ways ahead of Ymir, their façade dropping into an intent glare. Probably something about not being underestimated- "If you need a recommendation for a good wine, I think I have one of the best palates in all the lands!"

...nevermind? The corner of her mouth twitched up. Somehow, that was more reassuring. "You'd get along well with one of my old guildmates. He loved any excuse for a drink."

The branch they were on finally tapered off into the ground, the earth soft and spongy as Ymir dropped onto it. The roots gave her some confidence that it wouldn't collapse beneath them, though it caught her off guard when several patches of moss reared up. The lizards took one look at the size of their opponents, scuttling off into the surrounding root networks. She shrugged, taking a seat against one of the damp trunks as the rest of the group caught up.

"We'll break here," she said, pulling a rather unappetizing looking food bar out of her satchel. Clumps of leafy plants and fungi thrived under bushes at the edges of the clearing, an abandoned firepit surrounded by crumbling rocks at the center. Some of the plants looked vaguely edible, though Ymir wasn't about to take chances in an unfamiliar environment. Her clothes clung uncomfortably hot against her skin, soaked through with sweat.

Maika and Sally seemed to be chatting amicably about something as they arrived, though Ymir was pretty sure she saw Maika stow away a vial of... something, in their coat. Sally didn't seem bothered by it, so probably nothing of concern. Comparing medicine, perhaps. Vyilki and Ruvo and Wizard weren't far behind, followed by Alyssa and Nanalee and the others in the group. Everyone seemed in good enough condition, except-

Alyssa was wiping away what seemed to be tear tracks on her cheeks as she entered the clearing, which was, somehow, even more disconcerting than Maika with her unidentified vials. Ymir hadn't the faintest idea what the woman would be crying about. Their face wasn't distorted or blotched with the usual red tinge, almost nothing else to show for their display of emotion. She took another bite of her ration, commenting after a moment. "Did a bug fly into your eye or something?"

They wouldn't stay long, just enough to check that everyone was in good condition before they reached the search zone. "Oh, speaking of-" Ymir turned over her arm, checking the exposed parts of the skin. "Make sure you don't have any leeches while you're here." The bloodsucking ones were gross, but it would be a real issue if any of them got stuck with a mana leech they didn't know about. Those things were responsible for more than a few adventurers dropping into the water without warning. "Particularly the back of your neck. It's a spot that's easy to miss."

 

[Gaius Danius Griinia]

The Wizard
Location: Clearing in Swamp
Mentions: Sylph Key of Stars RatKing

The Wizard had been silently following along with the group for a while now. He wasn't the talkative type. Plus he didn't know anyone in the group well enough to speak at length with them. So he kept his pace with everyone whilst awaiting the trials ahead. Their arrival at what appeared to be a clearing meant that it was break time. The Wizard was doing fine on stamina but chose to take a moment to rest. The heat here was causing some sweat on Ymir. He was sure that it would attract some kind of predator so he chilled her water canteen with a wave of his hand. His training had caused him to develop more of a tolerance for this kind of heat. Looking at the swamp lizards occasionally poking their heads above the muck to spy on the group. The Wizard stood guard with his spear. However his attention focused in on Alyssa, the silver elf. Those fake tears of hers annoyed him for some reason. Perhaps it was because he had seen genuine tears from those he had met on his journey. No it was something more intrinsic to Alyssa. The Wizard did his best to figure out what irritated him about her. Then it clicked for him, it was her rage. She was just like him in that regard. He had no idea what had caused such obvious fury to burn in her heart, but he could recognize it as being like his own. His was more tempered, thanks to the connections he made in the Waystone Guild.

It was most likely the difference in how they internalized this rage that set them apart. The Wizard took the rejection he faced from the world and used it as fuel to become ever more powerful. Alyssa seemed to have developed a blizzard in her heart that she hid behind an emphasis of differing emotions. Wandering over to Ruvo and pulling the bird aside for a moment. He encouraged him to play a little tune to raise their spirits. "The Wizard thinks some ambience is required to deal with such harshening conditions" said the mage, leaning on his spear. He took some time to conjure a series of fireballs which transformed into musical notes to accompany the bird bard.

 

[SilverFeathers]

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7​

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• Notes

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• Location
  Dark Marsh - Expedition Campsite -> Deeper Marsh w/ Ymir, Za, Vyilkihild, Wizard, Maika, Alyssa, Sally, Ahni & Chiharu
  
  Mentions
  Key of Stars

Alyssa's sudden tears were alarming, as the harpy began to fret in panic all over again. But more than her sorrow, it was the seething hatred within her words that resonated with Nanalee, causing her to calm and pause atop her branch to examine her conversation partner more closely. It wouldn't be a lie to say that, apart from her previous acquaintances, Nanalee felt little towards her other travel companions. I mean, they had all just met after all. But just with Alyssa's sharing of her nemesis, Nanalee briefly began to see her in a deeper light.

Turning her scrutinizing gaze away after a moment, she continued forward. "It's fine, I'm sorry I can't share more." She began gently, with the prospect of diverging more potential secrets to Alyssa not even crossing her mind, having long mentally closed off that topic.

"But don't cry. How are you meant to take your vengeance if you cry so easily?" She scolded light-heartedly with a soft chuckle. Though as she lowered her eyes, she only felt the gravity of her own words. It was a lesson she had learnt so long ago; to think that she would once again think of it now. "A desire for vengeance huh..." She trailed off in thought, quietly watching Alyssa's figure overlap with her younger self in her mind. Closing her eyes to disperse the mirage, she continued forward, almost scraping the swamp's surface as she glided towards another creeping branch.

"I can understand your feelings. I too have someone I want to strangle the neck of, shattering their spirit so that they are unable to reincarnate ever again." After awaiting her silver-haired conversation partner to catch up, she chuckled and smiled a little wistfully, throwing those thoughts to the back of her mind as they entered the clearing together.

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Although Nanalee's feathered arms fended off the humidity quite well, the heat was a different story. "...Are marshlands always this warm?" She couldn't help but complain lightly with an uncomfortable smile, standing atop a higher gnarled branch as she fanned her feathers out. Although the darting moss-covered lizards aroused an instinctual desire to hunt, Nanalee simply couldn't find the drive to give chase with all this heat. Watching Wizard materialize music-shaped fireballs didn't help either, as she quickly re-positioned herself to a tall branch on the opposite side of the clearing. Fortunately, the adorable bear-shaped Bal on her head was more than happy to give her a hug to help her cool down.

Heeding their great expedition leader's warnings, Nanalee indeed found a bunch of dark wiggly creatures on her skin, crawling up the scales on her lower legs and latched onto her upper back. "Eh? These look like they belong in the ocean." She pondered out loud, grabbing them by the tail and observing them curiously. Bal was less than happy with their presence however, swiping and shredding them to pieces before throwing them away. She helped Nanalee comb through her feathers for any leeches that had managed to burrow past her feathers too, being equally as merciless to any found. "Do they drop from the trees? I wonder how they got on me." She mused carefreely, silently freezing over a couple of the open wounds the leeches had left behind.

 

[Spoiled Bread]

Maika
Location: Dark marsh

"Ohh, that's an unusual looking venom." Maika commented as she watched Sally's thick venom flowing into the vial. Maika opened her briefcase, showing the inside to be filled with various kind of containers, the spaces between the containers were filled with clear blue substance that seems like dry yet elastic jelly, looking almost similar to the slime perched on her head. In the middle of the briefcase there's an isolated section dedicated for several small vials each with different liquids within. Maika took Sally venom and jammed it into the blue jelly in the middle section alongside the other vials.

"Thank you for your contribution. Unfortunately I'm not an expert at preservation, unless we're talking about cadaver." Rubbing her chin briefly, Maika then shuffled through the inside of her briefcase once more, her hand finally pulled out a peculiar round object wrapped in metallic foil. Inside was a black spherical object with consistency and texture similar to that of chalk.

"I guess you can have this. Put this inside a sealed container with your plants. It slows down growth, prevent fungus and molds from taking over and dehydrate nearby objects. Decay delayer, as my mentor named it." Maika seemed a bit hesitant but she handed it to Sally. She concluded their trade by cusping her hands in front of Sally, the same gesture as she did for the food before.

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Arriving at the clearing, Maika wasn't too happy with the soft soil beneath them but it was at least better than trudging through the shallow murky water. She pulled out her pipe again and lit it up just enough for a small line of smoke to waft out of it.

"Much better..." She said to herself as she take a seat near the abandoned firepit, slightly away from anyone else as to not bother them with her smoke. Ymir warned them about leeches and Maika's tendrils immediately squirmed inside her coat looking for the suckers and she let out a sigh of relief when she didn't find any. She watched amusedly at Nanalee and her summon frantically trying to remove leeches from her body.

"It hooks into your skin so please be gentle when removing it." Maika warned her gently, she didn't budge from he seat though and kept enjoying her smoke. Normally she would try to treat any wounds as soon as she noticed them but leech's bites were generally non-threatening so she would rather save her supplies to be used when someone really needs it.

Megilagor SilverFeathers