Fantasy Race For The Queen's Juniper (Reboot!)

[Fus ro dah]

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The story has officially started! Enjoy the ride and watch the skies!

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[Fus ro dah]

Chapter One: Nowhere Left To Turn (A Pirates Life)
Carran, Asenteos. 10:00am, Saturday 3rd June (Winter)
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Even though the skies were clear of clouds, the breeze was cool. It never snowed here, but that didn't stop the weather from getting down to freezing cold during the night. Today Carran was slightly busier than normal, being both the Capital of the world and the main trading hub meant it was bustling every day. There was an air of desperation in the air though, one that had been spreading across the nations over the last few months and steadily growing as time passed.


Plant life was dying and there was nothing anyone could do about it, Alchemists had been working across the globe overtime to try and cure whatever this illness was. They had yet to succeed. It had started with the grass which turned brown and curled up, shriveling away. Flowers and small bushes were next to follow, the disease also spreading to food-bearing plants. Soon farmlands because wastelands, mudslides became common in the mountainous regions, as was flooding.


Fresh fruit and vegetables were rare right now and expensive, bandit and pirate raids were at an all time high. Reward posters for bandit gangs and pirates were strewn around the cities and towns, offering large rewards for the capture of these criminals. Even local theft was worse than normal, homes were being broken into and food was taken. Rumours were that the stolen food was being hidden away and would be sold when things got desperate, which could be in the next few months easily. The Queen was desperate now, the bandits had been ambushing the heroes and adventurer's who were seeking the cache's of stolen food, a few had returned triumphantly, only to have the food stolen again days later.


"Hear ye! Here ye!" The loud voice of one of the town criers rang out across the Marketsquare. "Her Royal Highness, Mirabella Anise Skyweather III calls for the help of all who are willing. A Royal Pardon is included for those of the criminal persuasion!" He rang his bell several times again. "Gather around and take a flyer! This contains all of the information needed!"


The parchment is sealed with the Royal Seal of the Skyweather family, a crimson wax stamp atop each sheet of parchment. Upon it is written a note, a cry for help.

The world needs your help. As you are aware, our plant life is dying and there seems to be no cure for it whatsoever. I, Queen Mirabella Anise Skyweather III call for your help to save us all. Background no longer matters, criminal or law abiding citizen, we are all suffering.


There is a tale of a long-lost tree, The Queen's Juniper. This tree is said to withstand all disease and is constantly blossoming with various fruits and nuts. The tree is said to have leaves and blossoms in various shades of pinks and purples, and this tree is our last hope for survival.


Whoever brings me the Queen's Juniper shall be greatly rewarded, they shall want for nothing and those of the criminal persuasion shall be given a full royal pardon. This extends to bandit groups and pirate crews.


I implore you, whoever you are. Help us.


Her Royal Highness, Mirabella Anise Skyweather III

The Captains of the rival Skyships; The Cloudcutter and The Hangman's Remorse both take a flyer from the pile, exchanging venomous glares at each other and probably contemplating a battle right here and now, but instead they rush off in search of their crews. Both wanting to be the first to find The Queen's Juniper, both willing to kill each other for both the reward and the Royal Pardon.

 

[khuyen]

Alack O'Flaire - Town Square in Carran


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"You! Give me all of your money, right now!" Alack blinked twice at the knife pointed to his face. The knife holder, a dirty looking bandit, glared at them. "W-well hurry up!" His voice shook, giving away his nervousness. Seno Marik reached for his own weapon, but the Captain spoke calmly with the hint of a smile. "Sorry, why do you think I have any money on me?" The question caught the bandit off-guard. He probably wasn't expecting someone to be this calm about getting mugged, especially when he had tried hard to choose a weak-looking, rich man. Boy, was he wrong.

"It's obviously because you're not wearing your captain hat, Alack..." Seno half-scolded the younger man, whilst having the bandit in an arm-lock. With one hard twist of a hand, the bandit let out a choked cry and dropped the knife. Seno released him, giving him a hard push, letting the bandit run. They would get no money from such a petty thief. "The wind is strong in Carran, I didn't want my hat to blow away..." The dark-haired elf merely rolled his eyes at his odd reasoning, but secretly thought it was for the better. They would not be attacked, if no-one could tell who they were. They weren't exactly hiding, but people were idiots, anyway.

Alack O'Flaire and Seno Marik continued through the streets of Carran, walking towards the Town Square. Their ship was safely docked, and the Cloud Peril crew had just arrived. The captain had given his crew-members some leisure time to do their own business in Carran, which everyone had gladly accepted. "The situation is not looking well, is it, Seno?" Alack's eyes skirted around. The streets of Carran used to be beautiful, flourishing, but it was like an iron-blanket had been draped across the city; a blanket that slowly suffocated everyone. The crime-rate had gone off the charts, and town guards ran past them, not giving them the time of day. "The people are starving, we will have a hard time trading our loot..."

As they reached the middle of the Town Square, also known as the Marketsquare, they stood and observed. The atmosphere of Carran wasn't entirely dead here, as many shops were still open, bargaining back and forth. "Hear ye, hear ye!" A townscrier shouted near them, standing on top of a cart, waving his ridiculously loud bell around. Curious, Alack turned to him and took a flier stacked near his feet, reading it as the townscrier told his message. "The Queen's Juniper..." He mumbled, trying to remember, where he had heard the tale before. Suddenly, someone bumped into him from the side, and Alack turned to apologize, only to stiffen in his movements. Zan T'Locke. The captain of their rival crew stood next to them, flier in hand. Alack's otherwise friendly look turned into a glare, and the air turned cold.

@MrLeighKemp
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[Yziel]

The street was busy, crowded even but Sheeyk dance through the tide of people on nimble feet, spinning and side stepping effortlessly. Tracking anything by scent here was difficult but she had eyes on her prey now. She reached the outskirts of the roiling mass of bodies and bumped into one of the stands as someone pushed her out of the way. She growled quietly in annoyance as she continued up the streets.


The vendor she was looking for were mere feet away now and she could almost taste the green apples he had for sale from here. By the time she reached the stand her eyes were wide and her ears twitched with anticipation. The vendor was having an argument with one of the customers, Sheeyk couldn't quite follow the conversation and she didn't really care to. She put her hands on the crate and rose to her tip-toes to get a closer look at the delicious apples. They were large and green, her tailed wagged happily. She gave the vendor another careful glance and decided he was too busy to be bothered. She reached in and took one of the apples, replacing it with her payment, a really good round rock, perfect for her sling. She backed away from the crate and returned to the sea of people. After all the wasn't here find food.


Holding the apple carefully in both hands she continued on her way. She hadn't seen fresh fruit far too long, food in general seemed rare lately, she didn't quite understand why. She was not planning on squandering this one. She glared with murderously at a presumably drunk human male stumbling in front of her. She quickly stepped around him and continued looking almost hypnotically at the fruit. She leaned in and sniffed it, it smelled fresh. She smiled happily, her mouth falling open slightly and a few drops of saliva fell on her shirt.


She bit into the apple, whimpering softly as the fresh juices filled her mouth. She'd almost forgotten what they tasted like. A loud crash behind her broke her trance and she threw a quick glance over her shoulder. A fight had broken out at the apple merchant. Lucky, she thought. She returned her attention to her own fruit, licking it clean of leaking juices before biting into it again. She was heading to an herbalist she'd been told had s store nearby, she needed to stock up on some of the basic medicinal plants she didn't have time to harvest herself.


Her earns flicked up and down indecisively as they couldn't decide between drooping contently and rising to listen for danger. Her tiny tailed wagged happily as she finished off her meal. Licking her fingers and lips clean she continued to search for the the store. Being small like Sheeyk was a bit of a problem here as she had difficulty seeing the store windows as everyone towered above her and she couldn't read well enough to understand the shop signs. Instead she had to run between building looking through the windows to see what was inside. It took her several tries before she found the correct building and went inside.


Her nose twitched as she was hit by a wave of mixed scent from various plants and herbs. It was hard to make out anything specific. Glancing slightly at the various shelves, most of them half full of jars and boxes while making her way to the front desk. “Healer! I want-make trade!” she chirped and rested her elbows and chin on the tall counter. A moment later a woman appeared, middle aged, brown hair with a few grey strands and steel coloured eyes that radiated wisdom. “An east-fae how exotic” she remarked with a smile “how can I help you little friend”. Sheeyk's tail began wagging and she reached into her shoulder bag.


Some humans could be so rude but this one seemed nice. “I want-need summer-root and...” she hesitated a moment before naming the second item in the old tongue, she had not yet learned it's word. The woman furrowed her brow and seemed thoughtful. Sheeyk glanced around the room and quickly spotted the plant, running over and tapping it with her finger while looking at the woman excitedly. “Yarrow” she explained “Yarroo” Sheeyk mimicked and returned to the desk “I need also... purple flower, tall good for..” she continued before the woman interrupted her “lavender”. Sheeyk nodded excitedly, her ears pointing to the ceiling and twitching lightly. The woman walked around the rooms and retrieved a few jars and bundles of herbs before returning to the counter. “How much do you need?” her smile was warm and friendly. Sheeyk's ears twitched slightly as she studied the items on the desk “All” she said simply.


The store owner looked at her, uncertain for a moment “That's going to be quite expensive I'm afraid, do you have any money?” she sounded almost like she was apologizing. Money was a strange concept to Sheeyk and she had no problem parting with it, she put the pouch on the table and looked at the woman expectantly. She loosened the strings and peeked inside, there was a moment of hesitation on her face and she glanced back at the young fae. “This is too much, it'll cost you maybe half of this”. Now it was Sheeyk's turn to look confused, her ears drooping slightly and her tail flicking side to side nervously. “Is fair trade” she said decidedly and started taking the items of the counter. “Let me help you with that” she took one of the larger jars and helped the little fae bag it. She paused for a moment and then grabbed another smaller jar from one of the shelves and bagged that as well. “Cayenne peppers, good for stomach and seasickness, also pain if applied” she tried to say it as simply as possible.


Sheeyk smiled a toothy grin, said goodbye and left the shop, her bag now full of supplies.

 

[Fus ro dah]

If you can't afford it, steal it.

Rhys had left the ship shortly after it had docked, list in hand of their current foodstock. Srocks had been dwindling this last week, and the meals had been smaller to make sure the crew didn't starve. Only the captain knew how little food was left, but now that they were docked Rhys would hopefully be able to rectify that issue. He had taken some time to stretch his legs and just look at the stalls, see what was on offer and suss out any weakness that would alow him to get any form of discount.


So far, he had managed to get more food for his money from almost all of the vendors. His charming smile won over some, whereas his silver tongue had won over others. Although one stood in his way, the only vendor selling fresh meat, and his prices were extremely high. Higher than the cook had expected. He had made his way back to the ship to find the one person who might be able to help him with this.


"Breezy?" His voice carried across the deck. "Are you here? "


@khuyen

 

[khuyen]

Anni 'Breezy' Kennwood - Wandering around Carran

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The sun was up high in the sky, and Anni couldn't help but stand still for a minute, feeling the cool breeze touch her skin. Ah. Finally home. Carran, her hometown and the big capital, was bustling with life as usual. They had just docked the ship and Breezy had immediately run off, almost skipping to her family home. It wasn't like they didn't dock in Carran often, but every time, Anni would've found herself busy with inventing something new, or fixing the engine after a cruel fight. So busy, she forgot to get off the ship and visit her family. Whoops. Ah well. I'm home now and it's only been... a few years? Grimacing slightly, she could almost hear her mother's scolding voice.


She didn't bother with knocking, as she tried to enter her home. The door was locked though.Strange. It's usually always open. Breezy would soon learn of all the thievery and caution, people had to take now a days. So she had to knock anyway, and when her mother opened the door, it was a picture-perfect, touching family reunion - after she had been scolded and hit on the head by her mother, that is. After telling a few stories about what they'd been up to (mind you, she left out the bloody and brutal parts), she finally told her mother about Maeve - her childhood friend, someone she had blissfully reunited with on the ship. She left out everything about the other guy, finding it difficult to even think of him without wanting to break a few skulls. Needless to say, there was laughter, hugging and tears in the Kennwood household that day.


So around she went, wandering around Carran to visit old friends and family, and to the workshop to get a good round of ale with the guys and her uncle. She had always been happy on the Hangman's Remorse, but it was only now, Breezy had realized how much she had missed home. Home wasn't quite the same anymore though. The atmosphere had changed. "Ah, fellas!" She spit out to the men in her uncle's workshop, where she had grown up and learnt all she knew. "I wanted to show you my newest invention, but I left it on the ship." The guys laughed and clinked mugs, only to throw her out despite her protests, telling her to 'run and get it, lass'.


Anni happily skipped back to the ship though, enjoying the walk. She came to find Rhys, her friend and crewmate on the ship, looking for something. Her apparently. "Rhys? What'cha looking for?"


@Fus ro dah

 

[Fus ro dah]

This is going to need... a woman's touch.

Anni's voice bought a wide grin to the cook's lips and he spun around, bringing his palms together once in a clap of happiness. He took a moment to look her up and down, she was dressed nicely enough to get the butcher's attention. Rhys had seen him ogling the pretty young ladies as they walked past, near or far.


"I have a little job for you, my dear Breezy darling." He sidled up to her, slipping an arm around her shoulders. "There's a..." He raised his hands and crooked two fingers in the air, making air quotes. "'lovely' man in the Marketplace selling some fresh meat. It looks to be good quality and it's been far, far too long since the crew has eaten decently. Buuuuuuut... his prices are stupidly high. Even for what is going on right now, they're overpriced by at least 300%."


He let her go and stepped back, gesturing to her form. "I'm in need of your assistance to... acquire some, or all, of this meat for the crew. He has an eye for the pretty ones." Rhys winked at Anni. "And none of the ladies I watched him stare at were comparable to you at all. So, what say you?"


@khuyen

 

[Broken-Angel]

Lilith stood in a dusty weapons shop, the loud clatter and talking drowned out due to the rather large and thick door. She was here getting Evie all nice a shined up. The Cutter's last leave, left a few nicks in her beloved blade. One might say Lilith's love for her weapons was how you would image a mother would be about her favorite child. It was a very rare sight to see her without either Evie or Horus. This day though, she left Horus back on the airship. Surely, she wouldn't need both of them. Then again, one could never tell when you were here. The world's capital. Carran. In this place, anything could happen. As the craftsman was doing what he supposeditly was the best at, Lilith walked around the shop, looking at the the various swords. Sure they looked impressive, but she wouldn't choose any of them over Evie. She hunted high and low for a great weapon like her.


Heavy footfalls were heard behind her as the craftsman came back around the front of the shop. Lilith turned and in his hands was what looked like a brand new Evie. A small smile spread over her lips as she walked towards the rather large man. She took from his hands and inspected it herself. Seeming pleased with it, she looked up at the man. "She looks perfect. It seems that you have lived up to the rumors. I am very pleased, Thomas". The craftsman looked pleased with Lilith's praise. "Of course lassie! I ain't known as the best fer nothin'!". He let out a deep and hearty laugh. Lilith let out a small chuckle herself. "Of course, kind sir". She laid out the money that she owed him and carefully slide Evie back in her scabbard. Lilith walked towards the door as the owner asked her to come by again, when she was in port. She gave him a small nod and walked out.


Upon walking outside, Lilith shielded her eyes from the invastion of the bright light on her eyes. Blinking a few times, she looked around at all the hustle and bustle of the towns folk. A twich formed on her brows at the ammount of people that inhabited this place. Rolling her shoulders, she walked down a pathway leading towards a small fruit cart. She wasn't all that hungry but she couldn't resist a good ripe red apple. Flinging one up, she paid the owner and took a big chunk out of it as she continued to walk down the streets.

 

[MrLeighKemp]

Zan had got the flier from one of his informants in the city. He had a number of people, in a number of cities, that he would pay for information for booty, rewards or anything news worthy for a sky pirate captain, such as this flier, for example.


He handed some small change to the young boy, who had grown remarkably since Zan last made port here. He didn't speak to him and looking down at the him, whilst easier than a year ago, was still an uncomfortable stretch for his neck. He ruffled his hair as the boy turned from him. As the boy ran off an old man coughed to Zan's right, the man had been watching them and Zan, subtly watching him. He had been staring whilst Zan was using his peripherals to mark him. The cough, growing louder, was also quite undeniably fake. Zan tilted his head and the man nodded over to a alley nearby. The old man lead the way and Zan followed a few feet behind. He had to walk much slower than he liked, because of the speed and size of the short being in front of him.


Zan was notorious for noting the difference between some of the species he lived near and with. This man was either a tall northern Dwarf or a short Northern Nomad. He figured human, because he was old and humans were famous for shrinking in size in their later years. Zan had known an elder in his village that was only 6 foot when she was 90, the smallest one in his village. Little Elder they called her.


"That cappin is here" The old man croaked as Zan was hit by the shadow from the alley. "The Cloud Cappin."


Zan was a fan of listening, but speaking was something he prefered to delay with. He knew how it made most halflings and humans feel, nervous and awkward. He would never reply first, he would let them further explain whilst he silently judged.


"That Alack fellow. He's here. I have a guy on his trial. He'll be gone soon!" He said, stuttering, nervously at the Southern Giants superior shadowy size.


"What do you mean 'Gone soon'?" Zan said, monotonely.


"My man will shank 'im. Dead cappin must be worth quite a bit for you?" His stuttering was still there but a toothy smile crept out too.


"Did I ever order you to kill him? Did I ever say stab this man from behind? Is that what you think I want?" Zan broadened his shoulders and clenched his fists. the old man, shrunk in size. Zan did not know how that was possible and he realised that he had fallen back in shock or fear. "Call of the killing!" Zan ordered!


"I can't. Too late, He'll be on him now!" The man said, almost covering his face from an expected beating.


"Where?"


"Near the Lucky Lass Tavern!"


On those words Zan bolted from out of the alley, using all his hunting experience to dodge everyone, he ran like the giant black shadow that he was. as nimble as a deer and as balanced as a cat. He knew the tavern, it was where some of his crew would waste their coins on woman. Simple visceral pleasures. He had been there many times to break up fights, collect drunken crew mates or settle their debt for them. He was only a minute away and he knew exactly what Alack looked like, Zan was there the day he blew a massive hole in the side of the ship. Neither of them were captains then, Alack had won them the battle but Zan had had the pleasure of planting his axe in his captain's chest, which did not kill him out right, but word got to Zan that he had died a day or two later.


There he was, the blonde hair man. And it was not difficult to spot the man following him, knife in hand, standing 4.5 feet behind him, in the shadow of a market stall. The man leapt forward, lead by his knife. Zan had arms longer than any man in Carran, his fist grabbed the assassin's wrist twisted a little, until Zan felt and heard the snap of a thin twig that this man had for bones. He punched the man in the side of the side, to make him fall away from Alack. As he went, Zan moved to his left and he was closer to Alack than he first thought and bumped into him slightly.


Once the assailant had bundle over and left the area Zan let his eye meet Alack's. He was glaring at him, unsurprisingly. Zan had been told, by the little Fae in his crew, that he was always glaring and never smiled. So Zan continued with that look. Zan allowed his size speak for him.


@khuyen

 

[Amityvillager]

Octavia B. Hawkes

In the marketplace in Carran.

"Are you kidding me? There is no way. This fish is definitely worth more than two loaves of bread. At least throw in an apple," a young woman argued. She was standing before a handsome West Naiad, who was also very selfish.


He had his arms crossed before the woman who was swinging around the trident that had what he gathered was a ten pound fish. He couldn't tell what species it was, though, but he was not going to give her what it was worth. He was here to make a hefty profit. "No," he replied shortly. The woman was full of energy, and she was exhausting. She continued to glare at him for but another moment before shrugging.


"All right, then. I'll take my rare bluebird fish elsewhere. Good day, sir," she said as smoothly as she could, turning away. The fish was actually very common, if you knew where to find them. The young woman was actually good at lying. The naiad rolled his eyes and shooed her along, knowing she would come back any second. But she kept walking. And she didn't look back. He raised his eyebrows, then finally called her back. He grumbled something about women and fishermen but handed her two loaves of bread and a small golden apple. "Pleasure," she lied with a grin and a wink as she tucked the loaves of bread into her bag.


The young woman bit into the soft flesh of the apple, sighing in contentment as sweetness exploded into her mouth. It was even better than raw tuna, one of her favorite snacks! She made her way through the market, only changing her course when a messenger of sorts began ranting about something the queen said. She shrugged, seeing as though the queen wasn't her queen. But nonetheless she took a gander at the paper, deciding she wanted to search for the Queen's Juniper. Not for the reward--which was nice, don't get her wrong!--but for the adventure. Luka never could appreciate her love for adventure and new things. She just couldn't understand why after that drunk night in the hidden grotto he was so. . . possessive about her. Not like they made any vows or whatever.


She sighed, tucked the paper next to her bread loaves, and turned, only to see two men staring each other down. "Oh my gods, let's just take the testosterone down a notch, fellas. Some of us have things to do," she sighed, putting her spear into a sort of holder on her back. It was easily taller than she was, so she had to turn it a bit. Hopefully the giant wouldn't poke an eye out. "I mean, come on now. Take it somewhere else. I don't have time for this," she grumbled. The only way for her to cut through the crowd was between these two adolescent boys, and they wouldn't move. So she stood there, arms crossed, debating on whether or not she should wait or try to push through them.

 

[Broken-Angel]

Walking by a sickly looking stray dog, Lilith couldn't help bit feel sorry for the poor thing. Having half an apple left, she bent down and slowly handed it to the creature. Keeping her hand steady and her breath even, she watched as he carefully took the food from her hand. A smile formed on her lips as the dog begin to eat it as if someone was going to steal it away from him. She petted it's boney head and stood, dusting her hands off. Lilith was just about to go back to the ship when she heard a fuss over near the local Tavern. It really wasn't much of a surprise to see.


Drunken locals were always out there fighting about something. Usually it was about how's boat was the best or someone messing with someone's property.


The reason this time it caught her attention was that it had to deal with her Captain. Of course Alack wasn't a completely passive person by any means, she just knew that her Captain was not one for fighting in public or making a scene. He usually was the one breaking up to tussles that her fellow shipmates cause. Being way too easy on the for her tastes. She liked her Captain and was loyal to him to a fault, but the lad didn't have an aggressive bone in his body, she didn't think. Frowning, she left the dog's side as she slowly began to make her way over towards him. She kept her hand on Evie, not sure if leaving Horus back on the ship was the best idea now.


As she walked closer, she noticed that some other person had been there and he had disarmed some greasy, hand for hire, lad. From the look of things, it looked like that fellow was about to dispose of her Captain. At this sight, Lilith began to slowly take Evie out of her scabbard. After the fuss was over with, she then realized that it was the Captain of their most rival ship, The Antherblades. Lilith, tilted her head slightly as she pondered why he would go out of his way to do such a thing. Sure, he wasn't a cruel man from what little she knew about him but it was out of character for him to do something like that. They were after all always fighting with the Blades, every time the crews were near each other. She wasn't sure if she was needed, so for now, Lilith just stayed off to the edge of everything. Using the big crowed as some cover in cause her Captain wanted to wring her neck for being where she wasn't supposed to, Lilith just stood and watch, waiting to see how this situation would play out.

 

[Stickdom]

The bustling city streets never held the charm for Jackson as it seemed to for the other crewmates, he much preferred the whistling of the breeze about his face and the salt spray of the sea, when they were flying low enough to feel it. He felt it a waste of one of his slim few days off, but the necessities were, well... necessary. He had since spent all of his supply of hardware and the Cloudcutter was in constant need of repairs and tuning, like a fine instrument of his own design. Naturally, he was not the only member of her crew to contribute to enhancing their home as well as their transportation, but Jackson was typically the first to jump on a project. The Cloudcutter was, in his own eyes heart, his child, lovingly cared for and nurtured daily, constantly. Thus, he thought, the need for more supplies.


So, here he found himself, in Carran Square and lost as a blind goose. Oh, he had a sixth sense for getting back to the Cloudcutter, but he was headed away from it, into the jungle of stalls, merchants, beggars, and thieves. He had already picked up a few gizmos and gadgets, both useful and otherwise. A contraption of screws and springs that just might fix that pesky leak in the galley plumbing, a pouch of tools to go with the various sizes of nuts and bolts that were always in high demand, a kit for cleaning and repairing the various equipment and weapons aboard, the plain brown sack slung over his shoulder was slowly filling up. Jackson had to stop every few minutes to toss his luggage to the ground in front of him and take a few deep breaths, the dense metals were over half his own weight altogether and he was trying to save enough energy for more throughout the day.


He had picked up a fried fish on a crusty stale bun and a flask of some iffy-looking water from a seedy vendor, albeit offering the lowest of low prices, and he stopped for his regular rest to make the best of it. Leaning against the wall of a tavern, he noticed a bit of a bustle brewing nearby, and he craned his neck to see the commotion. Crowds were gathered around a man making announcements and passing out fliers like they were candy, citizens and travelers alike snapping them up like greedy mawfish around one of his best lures. He was about to return to his meal when a familiar figure caught his attention among the mob. It was Vi Hawkes or, as Jackson personally called her, 'Horn', apparently trying to slip her way through the jostle.


Wiping the dirt from his pants and the crumbs from the corner of his mouth, hoisted his sack, and made his way up behind her. She wasn't a bad sort, he thought, almost as good a fisherman as he was, though he didn't dare tell her how to improve for fear of being skewered with her overgrown toothpick. Jackson gave her light, two-finger tap on the shoulder and the greeting "Hey Horn, what're ya up to?" before noticing the two captains glaring each other down. Stepping up beside Vi and poking a thumb in the direction of the ship's commanders, he gave a hoarse, fake whisper of "S'there gonna be a throw-down or 's'it just a lover's tiff?"


@Amityvillager

 

[khuyen]

Alack O'Flaire - Town's Square

​

The townspeople glanced at them, as the two rivaling captains stood in locked gaze. Alack didn't notice, nor had he noticed the assassination attempt. Zan was huge, to say mildly, and he easily towered over the captain and even his trusty elf-sidekick, Seno. The slender man put his hand on Alack's shoulder in a firm grip, dragging him back. With the way the two were glaring at each other, it wouldn't surprise him if a battle broke out in the middle of the Town's Square. Seno gave the poor town's crier a pitiful look, as the little boy stood frozen in fear of the two mighty presences in front of him. Or perhaps it was just at the sight of Zan. "Alack." Seno's stern voice snapped Alack out of his rage. The blond's head whipped around, noticing his surroundings. He saw some familiar faces around, knowing they were ready to fight for their flag if needed. Not here.





Turning around to his sworn enemy, he tried a smile. "Zan T'Locke. Fancy seeing you around here." He wasn't expecting more than a grunt for a reply. From what he had heard, the Southern Giant wasn't much for small-talk. "You might as well back out of the race. We're going to get the Queen's Juniper first. So save yourself the trouble." Alack merely assumed he was here for the same thing as them, the flier still in his hand. He wasn't usually a person of banter, and he certainly wasn't very good at it, but something about this guy brought up a different side of him. Seno stood besides his captain, wondering where he was going with this. Would a challenge really be so wise? The rivaling did not seem like a person to be intimidated by mere words.


@MrLeighKemp


 

Anni 'Breezy' Kennwood

​

Anni raised a perfectly arched eyebrow at her friend and crew-mate. Rhys was handsome and charming, and any girl would be blind not to notice. He had a silver-tongue, that man, but Anni knew better than to fall for his charming words. " Aw, shucks, I'm blushing." She said monotonously, rolling her eyes, but bearing a smile. "Last time, you got me to do you a -quote unquote- favor, you almost sold me to a damned brothel! Don't think I'll forget!" Half-scolding, she referred to one of their many misadventures. Rhys had been on the ship with her as long as she could remember, and he was easily one of her best mates.


"But meat, you say... It has been a while." Her love for food would eventually convince her to do whatever's necessary. Rhys' arm rested on her shoulders, as he lead her to the marketplace. "Oh, did you know about the situation in Carran right now? Everyone is going crazy about the food. I doubt we will be able to get the price down. Unless, you have a plan?" Her head turned to look at him with a questioning gaze.


@Fus ro dah

 

[Fus ro dah]

"Of course I have a plan." Rhy replied with a casual flick of his free hand. "I hope you have your running shoes on, lovely Breezy." A wide grin curled his lips and he flashed her a smile. One of pure mischief. One that Breezy had seen many times before, just before he almost got them in trouble.


"All I need you to do, is talk to the... nice man." They'd stopped a reasonable distance away and he casually motioned toward the butcher with his overpriced produce. "Keep his attention on you. Oooooor... hrmm... You do have a button up shirt back on board, right?" That grin of his was almost impossibly wide by now. "If not I'm sure we can borrow one from someone..." Oh, he was being vague right now as he plotted internally.


@khuyen

 

[Amityvillager]

Octavia B. Hawkes

"Hey, Horn, what're ya up to?"


Vi immediately bristled and turned around swiftly, hooking her right fist into the first man behind her. He dropped to the ground, clenching his certainly broken jaw, a very angry woman standing over him. Then Jackson stepped up beside her. "You damn dog," she growled, punching him none too lightly in the arm. "But it is most certainly the latter. I'll bet half a loaf of fresh-ish bread that either our captain won't be home this evening, or he'll have a tall, dark, and handsome visitor over," she replied, crossing her arms and conspicuously cupping her hand around one side of her mouth. It was amazing how quickly her mood changed to one of aggression to friendliness. Either the hunger was getting to her, or the crowd of people was. She would much rather be in a row boat in the middle of the ocean or down in the reefs with the fish. She would have probably been better off if she were a mermaid. But then again, choices in her men would be very limited. And she was having none of that, especially since she was a free woman. "Because if he doesn't, I might," she continued with a laugh.


A piece of paper swirled above her for a few moments before drifting down to her outstretched hand. "Is this what all this commotion is about?" she mumbled more to herself than her companion. "Queen's Juniper," she read aloud. "Wonder where that is. Guess we better grab our captain and get moving along before this Aetherblade swine," Vi recommended, nudging Jack in the ribs with a sharp elbow. "C'mon, Jackie, darling." She tucked the paper into her bag and made her way over to the two captains.

 

[Stickdom]

Vi had proceeded to drag him off towards the two captains, glaring at each other as if that alone would kill the other where they stood. As they got closer, Zan T'locke, the Aetherblade captain of giant proportions, began to look more menacing. Then, he saw Seno call out to their own captain, who turned sharply and looked about the room, directly at him and Vi, and the newly-noticed Lillith, giving them a faint but recognisable signal Don't get involved, not yet, not here. Jackosn understood and grabbed onto Vi's arm, pulling her up short, "Wait up a sec, Horn." He was no coward, and neither was their captain, this just wasn't the proper place for a fight to break out, "I think the Cap has a plan, we shouldn' make a scene. There too many bobbys and probably some prison cells waiting for us if we broke out into a brawl."


While Alack was still looking their direction, Jackson gave him a knowing nod, an affirmation that his orders were received, We'll stay outta this, but if it's a mess they wanna make, we'll be here for you. "Horn, let's go find a bite to eat, eh? Mebbe a loaf of not fresh-ish bread, and if the Cap'n brings home his tall dark and handsome friend, you gotta pay me back for it." He hoped that his vocal cues would catch on with her, Vi had always seemed the impulsive type to him, attack first, plan the attack afterwards. There was a bit of that in himself, too, but only when it was personal risk, he always put the good of the crew, his family, first and foremost.


@Broken\-Angel (in case Lilith saw Jackson and Vi there too :3 )

 

[khuyen]

Anni 'Breezy' Kennwood - Marketplace/Town's Square

​

That grin of his should've been warning enough. "Rhys, I'm not going back to get a stupid shirt!" But despite her exclamation, they somehow ended back at the ship again. Anni blinked twice, wondering just how he had managed to get her to do exactly what he wanted. "What the..." She mumbled under her breath, as she was pushed inside her cabin on the ship, with a white, tight button-up. Giving a big dramatic sigh for him to hear, she started changing.


"Rhys, you're killing me here, this is..." She tugged at the shirt uncomfortably, feeling it a bit too snug on her skin. Had he managed to shrink her shirt as well or something? Was this even hers? The duo made their way back to the market place in the Town's Square. Anni tried to pester him about his plans, but Rhys could be strangely silent when he wanted to. He just walked around with that stupid grin and sneaky glint in his eyes.


As they stood a few feet away from the butcher, he had pointed out, Anni wrinkled her nose. "He looks nasty..." A middle-aged man, big and butch with barely any hair. What irked her was the obvious look he gave basically every single female that passed by, basically undressing them with his eyes. He must've been new, Anni knew most of the butchers in Carran, but she had never seen or heard about this guy before. "What now? Yer' gonna seriously owe me for this one, chef..!"


@Fus ro dah

 

[Fus ro dah]

Rhy's grin somehow managed to widen as he lent a little closer to Anni's ear and lowered his voice. "It's a very simple plan. I'm going to give some coin to those street brats over there, you'll go and pretend you want to buy some meat..." He snickered and continued. "While Mr Perv is oogling your boobs and distracted, the kids'll grab as much of his stock as they can. If all goes well, and it should, we should be having stew tomorrow night."


He stood upright and slung an arm around her shoulders. "So, sound good? Yes? Great." He didn't give her a chance to interject. "The blond boy over there?" He pointed out the child. "He'll pretend to find something on the ground, that'll be your signal to go. I'll meet you back at the ship, just... Act like you don't know what's going on. We don't want to end up in jail... Anyway, have fun!"


With a smooch to her cheek, the chef wandered off casually, vanishing into the crowd with a practiced ease. For a guy that cooked, Rhys could be sneaky when he wanted to be. The blond haired boy met Anni's gaze a few moments, winked, and gasped as he 'found some money on the ground and lent to pick it up.'


It was time.


@khuyen

 

[Amityvillager]

Octavia

"Oh-kay," Vi said in slight surprise when Jack grabbed her arm. She listened to what he had to say, agreed with it, and yet still felt the urge to start trouble. And although he made reference to her narwhal accident--how did everyone even know about it?!--she was beginning to get used to it. She elbowed him again, but much more gently than before. It took her a couple moments before realizing that Jack was dropping hints. Not hints about affection--obviously enough--but what? She followed his gaze to the two captains, theirs of which was giving them a look. She hadn't been in the crew very long, but she knew that starting something would not be in anyone's best interest. "Hm, I suppose. And that sounds like a deal," she agreed.


Vi followed her companion out the door, noticing the handful of guardsmen who actually blended in pretty well with the crowd. She avoided their gaze and drew her red-orange scarf over her head. They got outside and there were a number of people pouring over the flyers that were being passed out. While she wasn't paying attention, she felt something gingerly touch her bag. She threw a glance behind her and saw an East Fae poking around in her bag. "Hey, you little shit! Get out of here!" she growled loudly, jerking away so hard she managed to hit Jackson in the chin with the pole of her pike. Said fae tensed at being caught and bolted, leaving a fuming Octavia to check her belongings. She still had everything, which was great. She turned to say something to Jackson, but saw the red spot she made on his face. "Ooooh, my bad, Jackie. Your pretty face should be fine, but I'm starving," she told him, patting his cheek with a soft hand then forging forward through the hot, sweaty people around her. Gods, she was so glad she wasn't modest about clothing.

 

[Broken-Angel]

Lilith watched calmly as the two Captains spoke. She was proud of her Captain. Despite all the hate towards one another, Alack was rather civil to him, all thing considered. He was more calm than she would be in his shoes, but that's why he was the Captain and not her. Lilith, caught the look on his face when he looked her way. He knew how much she hated to just sit by and do nothing when a crew member was in possible danger. Captain or not, she couldn't leave him here like this. Of course she knew that if she got between them, it was her ass on the line. Granted, it wouldn't be the first time and probably not the last but she wasn't going to let this slide. She would take the punishment as long as that meant that she had a Captain afterwards.


Following her instincts, Lilith walked up to the pair of males, her hand still on Evie. Clearing her throat, she squeezed between them. Looking up to the Blades Captain, was a bit scary in of itself. But she wouldn't let him know that. That was one mistake that Lilith made sure that she didn't make. Never let your oppoent know that they intimadate you. Once that happens, you might as well kiss the fight goodbye. They would use that against you at every turn. So, she wasn't going to let him know. Smiling up to the giant, she spoke calmly.


"Now now, gentlemen, we can either brawl right here and now. Or we can just go back to our respected ships and settle this like real pirates. I mean, while ya'll are giving each other the stare down, there could be other ships after this Queen's Juniper, and where would that leave us? Hmm? We wouldn't want to be out done by some crew who barely know how to tell a gaint from a Orc, now would we boys?". She looked to the both of them, not being able to tell if they would take the bait or not. For everyone else's sake, she hoped that they did.


@MrLeighKemp


@khuyen

 

[khuyen]

Anni 'Breezy' Kennwood


- seducing the meat-guy in Town's Square
​

As Rhys told her the plan, Anni didn't really understand it well. What was she supposed to do? Go over here and then what? "Rhys, I don't think that's going to-" Before she could finish voicing her doubt, the lad gave her a smooch and wandered off at his own pace as always. Pulling a face, she wiped her cheek dramatically, where Rhys had left a kiss. "Slick bastard..." She grumbled to herself, though her words held no malice.


"Okay, distract, boobs, ye got this, Breezy!" She gave herself a little pep-talk and puffed her chest out, as she locked eyes with the blond boy, Rhys had probably tricked into helping them. She breathed out, feeling the side of her trousers, where she had hidden her weapon, just in case. It was there. Check. She went to the stall next to the targeted one first, looking over the items. "Mighty good day to you, M'am, anything in particu-" The stall-keeper started, but Anni shook her head and gave him a smile. "I'm just looking, thank you." She quickly moved on to the meat stall, pretending to look at the meat. "Oh, my, what fancy meat you have here, sir. What sort of meat is that?" Exaggerating her movements, she leaned in to point at the meat furthest back to hopefully catch his 'attention'.


"Missy, I'll let you know, that's the best meat I have today! I'll even cut you a special discount for a pretty lady as yourself." Success, Anni thought as she put on a fake smile and continued to giggle and chat with him. She nudged the blond boy still on the ground, signalling him to get going.


@Fus ro dah

 

[Fus ro dah]

The Best Meal Is A Free One

On queue, the street rats scurried forwards, staying out of sight of the butcher who was currently enamored with boobs and they grabbed as much food as they could, stuffing it into sacks that were filled to the brim. If Anni looked hard enough, she'd notice each boy was wearing some kind of expensive looking jewelry, be it a ring, or a necklace. Something obviously too expensive for them to have gotten on their own, and no self respecting thief would wear stolen things in public.


The kids had filled up their sacks, somehow going completely unnoticed. That was, until one of them, the tallest blond boy, made the mistake of bumping into the butcher. Eyes widened on both parts and as the man's face reddened with race as he realised what was going on... the kids split. The raced off in different directions as the man quickly excused himself from the pretty lady and broke into a lumbering run, shouting at the top of his lungs. The street rats ducked and dodged, some quickly vanishing from sight, others continuing on, not dropping their loot. The man shouted a myriad of curses at them as he shoved through the crowd. Only one girl was visible now and she continued to lead the man around and around the market, her bare feet pounding over the dusty ground with the butcher in tow.


Finally, she dropped the bag and scurried down a sewer entrance that was way too small for the man. Chest heaving, he grabbed the bag and wiped his brow before heading back to his stall, grumbling angrily.


"Damn kids." He grunted a huff as he dumped the sack near the now, much smaller, pile of meats. "Thievin' brats! Sorry 'bout that... lovely lady." His gaze dropped to her cleavage. "So, about that deal?"


Another child ran up to Anni, one who hadn't been involved. She grabbed the woman's clothing and tugged it gently. "Momma?" She was playing the part well. "Daddy is waiting for us, it's time to go home. He said forget the meat, we don't have the money." With that, she pouted with practiced perfection. "But he has some apples!"


@khuyen

 

[MrLeighKemp]

Zan had noted everyone staring, and it wasn’t such an issue for him. Being a big man usually drew more than a fair share of glances.There were some women he vaguely recognised, short and working on Alack’s ship. There were witticisms thrown around from on lookers. Some short brown haired woman in particular kept trying to ease the situation with whatever words she currently found funny. They were all waiting, no one really wanted to get involved. Rightfully so, Zan often used his size to end fights before they began and being so armed and so surrounded was an invitation to a bloodbath.


Zan could sense the tension as Alack spoke, his words playful but they sat upon the cracking nervous voice of a man not used to ‘trash talk’. He let his words hang, as he stared on-wards, eyebrow raised, hands free and open.


He raised his hands, slowly, as not to panic anyone into drawing their weapon. His huge palms like muscular shovels. He dropped his eyebrow and half smiled out the side of his mouth as he clenched his fists, for a moment in silence. Showing the size to be like small boulders connected to the tree trunk arms of his.


Sometimes the best words are unspoken. His mother had once told him.His, somewhat, threatening gesture lead him to turn and walk away from the yellow haired captain and in the direction of his ship. He would be casting off soon, if his crew was on board, or not. Hunting had taught him how to wait, how to know when the time to strike was. It was why he saved Alack from the street thug moments ago, now is not the time to strike. What he also knew is that you could not let your prey get away from you and you must be ready to pounce on every opportunity. It was time to pounce, a quick, yet controlled start would make Alack and crew play catch up, make mistake, weaken themselves. The Queen’s Jupiter was not something to blunder into, it required a careful and thoughtful approach.


His long strides made him faster than everyone around him, luckily no one was with him, so he didn’t need to slow his pace for any shorter legs.His ship was in sight and it didn’t seem to be teeming with life, meaning people were likely to be mulling around half-doing jobs and half-relaxing. He slowed down, a little. He didn’t want to seem to be rushing, a captain who moved quickly would likely make a crew nervous. He also wanted to give them time to stop lolly-gagging and to actually start pulling their weight.


They were launching soon.

 

[khuyen]

Alack O'Flaire - Town's Square

​

How much time had passed with staring him down? Alack wasn't sure. He was losing his cool. Just as he was about to say something just to fill the deliberately agitating silence, a lock of long hair flew into his face as Lilith stepped in front of the two captains. Alack's eyebrows rose a bit and the corner of his mouth tugged upwards, as she spoke. He was sort of surprised it took her that long to interrupt them - she wasn't one to stand down, when it looked like a fight was about to break out that could possibly prove lethal. But it was right of her, Alack thought - now was not the time.


Alack didn't respond to the shorter girl, but merely kept his gaze on his rival. The giant didn't seem phased by any of their words at all, until he suddenly raised his hands and clenched them into fists. It took all his will not to take a step back, and he could feel Seno behind him, putting a hand on his sword. False alarm. The Aetherblade's Captain walked away with long strides, passing through the crowd that cleared out of his way.


The three cloudcutters stood for a moment in silence. Alack suddenly let out a huge breath. "Well, that was intense, wasn't it. Lilith, my dear, you're nosy as ever, but that's what I like about you!" He swung an arm around her shoulder casually, his face showing the usual smile and relaxed atmosphere. Every now and then his eye would tick a bit, giving away the tenseness that would not dissipate immediately. Seno shook his head and looked sternly at Lilith. "That could've been dangerous. Don't jump into a man's fight like that." Alack merely laughed it off, telling him not to be so uptight.


"So. Where are the others? I want us to leave Carran soon. Food would be nice first. Ah, brilliant, let's have a quick briefing over a meal in there." Alack pointed to a nearby inn, wanting his crew to assemble there. "Would you mind getting everyone there? I'll get us a table!" He patted Lilith on the shoulders, running off to the Inn. Seno shook his head. "Irresponsible as always." I'll get supplies and everything we need to leave soon, then." He gave Lilith a nod, indicating his departure.


@CloudcuttersASSEMBLE


 

Anni 'Breezy' Kennwood - Town's Market

​

Disgusting. She was in desperate needs of a shower just by being in close proximity with this creep. Now, Breezy wasn't exactly no fine lady with high standards but even she could tell he was a complete creep. She kept up the act, as the boys around her sneakily stole goods. She almost scoffed, seeing how easy it was - none of the people around them were even noticing, or maybe they just didn't care. It was almost over, until suddenly one of the boys bumped into the butcher himself. Shit. Anni should've probably run as well, but that would look suspicious, so she stood frozen, as the kids scattered all around the market place, drawing plenty of attention. The stall was undefended, unattended. This was almost too easy, she thought, as she slipped some of the meat into her bag.​

​

She was about ready to turn around on her heels, as her eyes looked around the crowd, searching for Rhys. "So, about that deal?" The butcher had come back, and Anni's legs froze. Her rescue came quickly in the form of a young girl, tugging her away. "Yes, honey, let's go. Sorry, sir, I guess next time?" She gave him a sheepish grin, as she grabbed the girls hand, walking away with her and the bag filled with stolen goods. How long would it take for the butcher to realize that he had been robbed? Too long, probably. They turned a corner, away from the crowd, and Anni rummaged through her coin pouch for some coins. "Here ye go, kid. Good acting. Some meat for your family as well."


Having gotten rid of the kids, Anni waited for the right moment to blend in with the crowd, before she turned her course back to the ship to meet up with Rhys.


@Fus ro dah

 

[Fus ro dah]

That went smoother than expected... for once.

Rhys was waiting for her, a lopsided grin plastered on his face as he lent against the railing next to the boarding ramp. He hadn't been able to see how things had gone after the kids had split and rushed about, causing confusion. He'd split some of their tasty treasure with the kids and stored the rest below deck as always. His gaze spotted Anni as she came into view from the crowd, and he realised her bag seemed a little more full than when he left her. He snorted a chuckle and waved to her casually, standing upright.


"Good timing." He slung his arm around her shoulder as her feet touched the deck, his other hand poked her bag. "Get yourself something a little extra, did you?" That lopsided grin was firmly in place by now. "And thank you, Anni darling. That went better than I anticipated. Now, Cap'n is on board. We're to be launching soon. Which will be good... because that butcher is bound to realise he's been relieved of some of his goods sooner rather than later."


He moved away from his friend and strode over to the Captain's chambers, rapping on the door with a knuckle. "Good news Captain, we're eating well tonight!" Turning away from the door, he motioned towards the kitchen. "Speaking of food, I should probably start cooking."


@khuyen @MrLeighKemp