Graded [Ryke – Stonewall] (Caelia Barony) How Do You Like Them Apples?

[Giftvi]

Watching of Reflection

Ambient Vibes

Point Booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | <Bestial>
Titles: Beast [Mundane], Hunter, Guardian
Interaction: conman2163 Elvario Gaius Danius Griinia Megilagor

Watching stood a little perplexed for a moment as Gwenith had denied it's request, after personally having stated that it might be a disastrous event for the orchards surrounding here. Though if it was offended or anything of the matter would be doubtful, though also quite hard to read if it were the case. It stood there listening intently as she tried to reason that perchance this was an incredible opportunity to be seized instead. If it could be proven to be reproduced, and if there wasn't an actual harm secret behind these apples which was yet unknown. The ears of the critter seemed to sag down for a moment, before putting the sack of coin back into its satchel. Simply nodding and accepting Gwenith's words for as they were.

As Izuru and Alister grew to have a heated conversation on the nature of the apple circumstance, it simply kept its board in its satchel and kept a listening ear to it all for the first part. Its eye twitched for a moment as Alister spoke, staring up towards it with an odd glance, but nothing was so specific as to why. As itself gave no reason either by writing down a question or an answer of its own yet. It's ears were still slightly sagging downward as its tail hung low though during the remainder of the conversation. When Izuru personally addressed it, Watching gave him a nod, before finally taking out of its satchel the wooden board, and showed the others of this travelling group its answer. Before cleaning the board and putting it back. "I'm not understanding enough of differing magics wielded by some. Nor what purpose was behind this happenstance. But as I understood things, it is not the creation which belies the importance, instead is it not the method of how they've appeared in various places without a trace? If they're being teleported, must one have sight on the locations one would wish to place them? And is their want to spread fear and hear of it, or would they wanna witness this in person themselves and are observing unseen."

With their approach to the Keg its nose would begin to hasten in each instance it was obviously smelling the delicious meal being made inside. Yet its overall mood didn't seem to shift as dramatically as with Retili or Alister. Its lurched back for a moment as Amika came so close to its personal space and looked down towards it with such eyes. Watching looked for a moment towards Retili at his introducing of Watching towards the others here, before focusing on Amika as it shook its head. Taking out its wooden board to write something down and show to Amika directly, "I would sadly wish to decline, I haven't really come down to the idea of being petted, even though many people have been so interested." Before scrubbing the board clean again, and now rather starting to actively document the following conversation, whilst also writing down specifics of the things heard so far for the first time.

 

[Gaius Danius Griinia]

Izuru
Mentions: Elvario Megilagor Giftvi

The tavern that Lentil showed the group to was way more homey than the dodgy place next to Izuru's inn. Maybe if he had eaten here last night, he'd have slept through the morning rather than suffer those brutes interrupting his slumber with their snoring. Scratching his cheek for a few moments. The dragonkin followed Lentil inside. Now the ladies on staff were a sight to look at. A combination of working women and girl next door vibes that would make any man melt. He fixed his coat so that he wouldn't make a bad impression on the trio of lovely ladies. Until he realized that Lentil would do his damndest to make Izuru seem unreliable. Izuru was concerned about his image and retreated into his thoughts while Lentil spoke with the workers. He eventually came back to himself upon noticing Amika attempt to touch Watching of Reflection, something the creature probably wasn't very interested in having happen to it. A fully sentient creature like Watching of Reflection being treated like this could be considered a form of ignorance. As for Marrok, he seemed to have gone for the route of presenting himself honorably and chivalrously. Izuru was neither of those things so he decided to do the only thing available to him.

"I see you four were debating over whose apple based treat was better. I'll buy one of each and some ale to boot" said Izuru while placing a small bag of coins on a nearby countertop. Although he looked broke as all hell. Izuru's recent adventures had made it so he had a decent amount of traveling expenses. Lentil had made the atmosphere super serious whereas Marrok was doing his best to play the honorable wolfman. Izuru could only do what was reasonable for him and spend some gold so that the staff here could test their treats while dishing out some juicy bits of gossip. "Another round of ale if you can drop any rumors or knowledge you know about the whole apple fiasco going on around these parts?" remarked the dragonkin while sliding another couple of coins over. If he handed over the money itself, that was a bribe. Bribes were bad in this kind of environment. Izuru was being a generous customer and supporting their business.

---

Actions
.Think Hard
.Sit
.Persuasion E on the staff

 

[TheTimePiece]

Teuihua
​

Interactions: Elvario Femboy

Teuihua replied, "+So as not to upset whoever put you here, I suppose you can wait here, truthfully I wish I had the authority to let you go myself but without a formal title or desgination to allow for such, it seems unlikely. And I suppose you are correct that it could detract some attention but I am uncertain who to seek who would have the authority to give you the okay to leave who I can speak with.+"

He'd then nod at what Zeouli had to say about the next bits, unfortunately there wasn't any real headway on understanding if Qeotl was up to gracing them with produce, or if Tsnatl was angered since Zeouli didn't seem to have any insight into either definitively. The insight that he did get was however was that there was a possibility of one of the gods of this time being displeased which wasn't exactly a better situation as far as Teuihua or Zeouli being able to assist the Barony solve the apple problems.

"+Well that is certainly a concern, thank you for the insight of this possibility, I will see about getting your released in some capacity.+"

Teuihua would translate the dialogue for Gunhild, before heading out, He'd nod. "Yes Gunhild that's correct, hopefully we'll be able to get Lady Caelia or someone else to free up Zeouli, nevertheless I have information to share with Lady Caelia when we see her again from that conversation, but Zeouli certainly did not do anything wrong she is a good "metal friend" as you say." He reassured her, allowing her to lounge on him as perusal.

However she did get his attention when she got her tail up against him. He'd look over with his [360 degree vision] before stopping and Giving Sherwood a wave. "Hello, Sherwood, He is an ally Gunhild. Sherwood, I am certain you are aware of the apple situation, we were just attempting to assist Lady Caelia in figuring out what happened but unfortunately I Just found out that Zeouli was placed under arrest because it was believed she may have had something to do with the apples appearing when it actuality she was just trying to thank Qeotl on the chance that the barony was receiving favor from her. Did you have any idea of what might be going on to cause these apples? And if you are trying to locate Lady Caelia, you may as well come with us."
====

By the point that Teuihua was being asked by Regula why they were back so soon he would explain.

"Yes I consulted Zeouli and unfortunately she was placed under arrest (If Teuihua was told who placed her under arrested he'd tell Regula) due to her gathering the apples to make an arrangement to honor Qeotl to thank her on the chance that the apples were caused by her as a blessing of sorts and this offering was deemed suspect apparently and made someone think Zeouli might be causing the apples, however also unfortunately Zeouli's insight went as far as to suggest to me while she suspected the two possibilities I mentioned to you prior as possible, she does not think that Tsnatl is as likely as she questioned why he would use apples, and is concerned that if not Qeotl being pleased with us, it may be a god from this time who is displeased, nevertheless If it isn't too much trouble I would like to ask of you to give permission for Zeouli to be freed, I do not believe she did anything wrong to warrant this treatment."

​

 

[Elvario]

Tags and character goals:
Elvario Regula Caelia – Figure out the who, what and why of someone or something putting apples everywhere in her barony's capital.
TheTimePiece Teuihua – Assist the baroness.
conman2163 Retili Loxinofican – Assist the baroness.
Femboy Gunhild – Sneak into the baroness' room to warm her feet. Get pets. Assist the baroness with the apple quest. Get more pets.
Gaius Danius Griinia Izuru – Help out cause it's interesting.
Megilagor Alister Marrok – Get approved. | Get employed.
Giftvi Purpler – Gunhild.

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The Keg
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Capital Town: Stonewall – Tavern.

From: https://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a147/Darsunne/0a55608e9d52edec15d4c6455736ec45_zpste7hezy9.jpg

Amika

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
cute fairy and shena the draw (elona) drawn by harusame_(rueken) | Danbooru

Amika perked up at Alister's words. “Oh, if you like cinnamon roasted ones, you should really try these!”

“They're apples that have a small layer of sugar-coated dough, with cinnamon and caramelised sugar inside of where the apple core used to be!” She'd offer him one of the pastry apples.

In her eagerness, she forgot introductions were a thing. Only recalling when he introduced himself. “Oh, right, I'm Amika, nice to meet you mister Marrok.” She wondered why he'd asked for rumours. Though she did know one really juicy one. “There's a rumour that there are three Kitsune sisters living in the barony now that arrived form some far-off island!” She'd lean in to whisper. “There was even a rumour that the baroness was going to take them in as courtesans, but I don't believe that one, because she seems way too careful about not getting a bad reputation.”

Upon Retili's words, she was confused. Blinking a few times, she looked from Retili to Watching and back again. Was she being pranked or...? When she saw the creature started to write, her heart skipped a beat. “Oh my, ehm... I'm sorry.” She'd state, bowing down real deep. “Can I offer you some pastries or ale to make up for this mistake or... wait, you don't have a mouth? Why do you not have a mouth? I mean... ehm...” She was totally at a loss.

Hestia

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
shena the draw (elona) drawn by harusame_(rueken) | Danbooru

Hestia nodded when Retili asked for rumours as well. “Well, as you might imagine, most are about the apples. Some say it's from the same civilization as the one that Teuihua, Zeouli and Ringo are from, others say that it's the Merchant Guild working with Baron Highgrove to sow chaos, others say it's due to someone activating an ancient apple curse in Yemaya, some say it might be an interdimensional apple tree, others say the apples have always been here, but are merely becoming visible to us, some claim that it's the doing of a cult...” She listed off an array of rumours. “Oh, right, did you hear about someone's cows apparently getting drunk from eating them?” She'd add. “That said, we've confirmed they are totally edible. Other than, well, some folk that went to sleep after eating them say they have really odd dreams. We're not sure if it's true, but we'll probably find out of it is, right?”

She looked to Izuru and nodded. “Alright, you can get them all at a discount~” She'd state, as she brought out one of each pastry. “Ale's still the regular price though.” She'd state, as she took his coins, counted it out and nodded, then filled up an extra large mug of ale. With another person asking for rumours, she raised an eyebrow. It's like they didn't even hear one another. “Well, I'd not be able to tell you much more than I just told advisor Loxinofican.” She looked at the other three. (Persuasion E making her want to try to come up with something still.) “Does any of you know any more?”

Todo Sawl

​

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

From: https://www.deviantart.com/tanukiforever/art/Belialdorz-Bloodfang-764518909

“Sleeping on a full and happy stomach can give anyone dreams.” Todo would add to what Hestia had said about the dreams. “All I know is that these apples are amazing for cooking. Normally you'd want different types of apples for different types of dishes, but these seem to work in just about any dish and with just about any recipe we can come up with. It shouldn't work like that, but it does. It's like magic in the kitchen.” He'd nod to himself.

Inola

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
Flambé by Kenny.Fox

Her tail was wagging, as she looked upon those that entered and her eyes were stuck on one particular beast-man. “I know I'd love to start some rumours about a handsome Wolfman arriving in the barony~” She'd take a slice of cake. “And perhaps about how much he enjoyed a slice of this fox's upside down apple cake?” She stated, as if to one-up Amika's earlier offer of a pastry.

That said, hearing Retili ask for rumour as well, followed by Izuru (Persuasion E), she clicked her tongue. Somehow Izuru made her want to see if she could add-on something, regardless of what it'd be. “I've heard one wild rumour, that the apples are a failed attempt at warfare from the See or East Empire. That they wished to use some magical attack, but instead ended up summoning apples here. It doesn't make any sense to me, but some drunkards were talking about it... I also heard it might be a prank by some deity or maybe by the goddess of Luck. And... hmm... Some suggested it might be a trial for the baroness? To solve this. Oh, right, I also heard that she did some good deeds in the See, at some point, and some rumoured that this is some Fae trying to thank her for it? I don't heear a lot of rumours though, as I'm mostly in the kitchen.”

--------------------------------​

Caelia Barony's Keep's Study
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Stonewall, Keep, Study

Zeouli hadn't been able to tell Teuihua much else of use, nor a name of whom had arrested her, as it'd been a general nondescript guard.

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

She was surprised to find Gunhild and Teuihua barge in, as she wondered what this was about. “Zeouli got arrested?” That's somewhat what she thought Gunhild was saying. Luckily enough, Teuihua was quick to confirm it. She sighed. “That makes sense, I fear.” She couldn't blame whomever had arrested Zeouli, as that would look rather suspicious. She sighed. “I don't think she did anything wrong either, but if she was caught putting up apples...” She shook her head. “I'd have to put her under some watch, just to ease people's minds, as they would rightly worry about what they've seen, yet you're too closely related to her and nobody else is available at the moment.”

It didn't feel right to keep someone locked up for no reason, but she also didn't wish for the constructs present to cause more panic, rumours and distractions. Even if it wasn't by her own fault. That's when they spotted Sherwood, whom she hadn't even noticed him up until now. Or well, Teuihua and Gunhild did as they pointed him out.

Sherwood

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/D59q1n

Sherwood himself, only wished to sink further into the ground. What was he meant to do when someone talked about him without addressing him? Like Gunhild just did. Like, did he have to reply to that or did he just have to wait until someone would confirm who he was? She didn't ask him, but she did ask about him, so like, what... He just started in awkward silence. When in doubt, keep quiet and pretend not to exist.

Luckily, Teuihua at least addressed him. Although the Construct was saying A LOT. Way more than he wanted to respond too, but alas. “Yes.” He replied, realising the answer was pretty easy, as it was about the same word for all of those statements and questions. He'd walk over to the table, taking out a map and putting it on there. On it were a whole lot of dots that seemed to be spread out in an imperfect circle spanning Stonewall and its surroundings. It's centre seemed to be slightly to the north of the town. “These are all locations I could find.” He'd say.

Lowrence

Spoiler: full image and source

From: https://v.viptuijian.com/p/52559.html

The foxman nodded, a smile creeping along his facial features. “So it seems they are indeed contained to a specific area. Well done.”

“Indeed, well done!” Regula stated, with a smile.

The attention just made Sherwood want to run out, but he nodded and stuck around, for now.

Regula would look at Teuihua and Gunhild. “With this, we've confirmed they strictly appear in Stonewall and some areas surrounding it, in an almost circular form. I think I we solve this, we can free Zeouli directly after, once this is solved and we can explain what's going on. Or well, at least we'd have a better idea of it. I mean, do you know what this reminds me of? Do you also think what I'm thinking?” She'd ask, hoping they were reaching at least a somewhat similar conclusion, to ensure that she wasn't just being too optimistic in leaping to new conclusions.

 

[Femboy]

Gunhild
10

(Titles: Beast, Fae, Large, Thoroughly Petted, Rockologist, Otherworlder (Isekai'd), Caelia Shrine Ally, Heavy-Duty Labourer, Incompetent, Speech-Delayed, One with Lymantraius Rex)
Character Sheet
Character Theme
Languages: Common, {Sylvan}, <Beastial>, |Abyssal|

Gunhild listened to Teuihua's confirmation that Sherwood was an ally, still not having much idea in the slightest who he was considering she had never seen or heard of him a single time up until thus very moment. Either way, she continued to remain perched on Teuihua's shoulder as Sherwood showed his findings to them and tilting her head as she tried to determine whatever it meant. The fact that Regula asked about being on the same wavelength only made the lizard more confused what the significance of it all being in some circular form was.

"Circ-ies... " Gunhild grumbled quietly as she tried to make even the slightest bit of sense about it, not being sure at all whatever it was the Baroness was referring to.
"Beeg pie? Is foods? Go foods-place, appy-pie? Beeg circies? Beeg rocks? Gunhild no know beeg circies... is place? Oh, ohs, ohs! Gunhild do a do knows, is rain. Appy rain. Appy rain day, appy's go in sky, do a rain, yes. Beeg circies, appy is circie, beeg appy circie. Mus' findses all circies? Maybes... peoples do appy wish, magic-wish-hole. Yesyes, wish-hole circies, beeg mappy circies, appy circies, yesyesyessies. Gunhild getses appy-pie? Foods? Yesyes... " Gunhild spoke with a smirk and small nod.

Actions
1. Size Change F + Energized F (4'1")​

 

[Giftvi]

Watching of Reflection

Ambient Vibes

Point Booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | <Bestial>
Titles: Beast [Mundane], Hunter, Guardian
Interaction: conman2163 Elvario Gaius Danius Griinia Megilagor

The critter would shake its small little head sideways as it looked towards Amika, putting the wooden board between its legs for a moment, as it waved its hands in the air. In a very human manner from its body language almost screaming out "do not worry", or perhaps "its fine" as best as it could do in such a short span of time. Perhaps quelling the thought within Amika that she had insulted it in any more, as it wasn't reacting in any way that was indicative of it feeling frustrated or angry in this moment.

Rather, as general a sentiment of trying to ease Amika's distress in some form or another. No matter what it might have wanted to say specifically. Blinking slowly as it stood still for a moment, gaze upward at Amika seemingly in thought for a hot few seconds.

Its right hand grasped the rim of the wooden board, slowly polishing it clean with its left hand as much as it could with the dirty old rag, before beginning to write down in a purplish red colour a short message to show towards Amika. "You're okay. Thanks for the offer, but you know. Uhm, is there anything you could tell me about this baroness maybe? I just arrived, and am quite far from home. Oh, which of these rumours do you believe the most? It's a lot to hear at once there."

It's words echoing a sense of curiosity, as it looked attentively towards Amika, whilst for a few moments looking towards the others standing around in the mess hall of the inn. Obviously having kept an attentive ear, if such was even needed for how loud and proud this gathering of passionate cooks and tattletales was. Its little face staring for a few moments at those of the retinue which it had arrived with, a certain indicitive curiosity perhaps on whatever they might latch onto. But no matter what it was quick to look towards Amika again. Perhaps it understood it was a bit rude to stare off midst a conversation after all. Though unlike say another person it was also strange knowing it couldn't make any quick interjections here or there, seeing as it was bound to a more tedious and slow form of communication.

 

[conman2163]

Retili Loxinofican
Character Sheet​

Elvario TheTimePiece Femboy Gaius Danius Griinia Giftvi

Retili did not in fact waste his time telling Hestia or the others about Izuru. In fact he was a little surprised the dragon kin had continued to keep up with them despite the clear attempt to exclude him from any conversation they'd entered into. A man who could not take a hint or listen properly, Retili assessed. He nodded as Hestia listed off rumors, listening intently to what she said as he retrieved a small notepad and charcoal pencil from his ever present satchel and quickly jotted down what she told him. The information was beginning to become a bit too much just to keep organized in his head. The notebook would make it easier to summarize for his report later as well. "Yeah, we'd heard that some cows were drunk off the apples. Apparently something about their stomachs let them ferment." Retili said, his tone friendly as he addressed Hestia. "Other than that they seem pretty harmless in so far as we've been able to discern. I don't know if I'd believe the Highgrove barony was involved, this seems a little far fetched for them and a little underwhelming as far as plots go. Interdimensional apple trees and a magic apple curse sounds a little closer to the mark. Where'd you hear those from? I'd be interested in interviewing whoever is telling those stories to see if they know anything concrete." Retili asked. He cast his thoughts to Inola's words. The idea of some Fae spell going awry in an attempt to attack the empire was actually a pretty good theory, even more likely if they were trying to magic up food supplies instead and some ritual went wrong. They were close enough to the border that it was possible at least. There were a lot of rumors but Retili wasn't certain which ones were credible. He wondered if he wouldn't be better served joining the baroness at her meeting with the Mayor at this point.

Spoiler: abilities

[/COLOR]

• Caelia Savant C - Law C, Warfare D, Business E, Academia F, Area Knowledge [Caelia Barony] F - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Retili uses his comprehensive knowledge built up through years of study to overcome issues that smooth talking might not otherwise be capable of.
• Charismatic Scribe C - Insight C, Perception C, Empathy C, Persuasion C - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Using his quick wit and fast mind, Retili talks his way around and through problems that he encounters.
• Noble Bearing C - Etiquette E, Law C, Academia F, Persuasion C, Empathy C, Perception D, Insight C, Business E - Grade D, 2 post Cooldown - After some time spent in study, on the road, and in the court of nobles Retili has learned the way and bearing required to be at least adequate in the many skills expected of nobility.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Teuihua
​

Interactions: Elvario Femboy

Teuihua nodded, "Well that is certainly unfortunate that she is being judged for acting on a primary function, if there was even a chance that Qeotl was responsible it is by design that she would wish to thank her by creating a ceremonial apple arrangement." Teuihua said sounding on the sadder side of things.

"However I do understand that this is how it must be until the answer for our situation comes to light." Also unfortunately despite the fact that Teuihua could be trusted to watch her, that definitely wouldn't be sufficient in the public eye since there were probably many who were suspicious of constructs to say the least. Teuihua would then turn and listen to Sherwood, who said yes a good deal to all of his questions it seemed, before pulling out a map of sorts, that information was actually to be useful. The apples were primarily appearing around Sootspire.

"Thank you for this added information Sherwood." He said matter of fact.

Teuihua would also allow Gunhild to continue to move around him unimpeded, even reaching his more dexterous hand out to her during the conversation, giving her a reassuring thumbs up despite her word salad not really contributing much.

"I appreciate your effort to contribute Gunhild."

Where else and how else had things randomly got astray around Sootspire before? There were the magical stones from his time and the magic tower appearing and disappearing..but these apples weren't really disappearing, there was also the shrine of passage and the circles..perhaps it wasn't too farfetched to assume there was another magical abnormality occurring there related to things from his time rather than a specific deity being displeased or particularly pleased.

But that's when Teuihua made a connection.

"Ringo has a great affinity for apples.The Shrine of passage is within the area of apple appearance. The pattern of appearance reminds me of the religious gate shape which was originally nearby the shrine of passage, and Ringo mentioned Apple Pie possibly becoming a new tradition of the shrine, perhaps in the context of the arrival of important religious figures, Maybe the one's whose name has been lost to time is thanking Ringo and is giving us a "heads up" as the term I've heard from this time..that someone of religious importance from the Mictlantecuhtlian pantheon is coming..you are the [Mictlantecuhtlian Chosen] afterall.."

 

[Megilagor]

Alister Marrok
Languages: Common | ^Ancient Hermese^
Mention: Gaius Danius Griinia , Elvario , conman2163 , Giftvi

"Excuse me then when I partake in this delicacy, lady Amika." Replied Alister to Amika's offer, after all, it was rude not to taste something someone offers, especially if you want to make good impressions on them, and will meet them often enough. He then listened closely to the words spoken by everyone gathered in the Keg. He grateful partook in the apple given to him by Amika, it was tasty that was true, but he still preferred his simple cinnamon roasted apples.
"Hmm so the baroness's love of tailed folk precedes her it seems." Alister chuckled a little at the news, hearing that Lady Caelia is friendly to his kind of people was nice to hear, even in his previous world not many people acted well towards his kind, knowing their reputation as mutts of the angels and all that.

A vision of someone in this place threw Alister out of the loop, he stopped listening to others and focused on her in the entirety of her being, her looks, her voice, her stride. All of that was enticing to him, and when he heard her speak to him in such a sultry tone he had to reply back in a similar style.
"I have to say I might be handsome but it pales in comparison to your beauty and cooking~. But sadly I am working right now, so perhaps we should see if there is something more to THAT rumor in the evening, the two of us that is~. And yet your name eludes me, care to share it or shall it remain a mystery till the evening comes?~" Alister spoke as he was entranced by the Vixen lady that just came to the room, it has been quite some time, a few epochs in fact since Alister's last time he was enamored by someone, especially at a first glance. So he walked a bit closer to her, took the slice of cake in one hand, and with the other grabbed one of her hands, raised it up to his level, and kissed the top of her hand if she allowed him to do so. He then let go of her hand and took a bite of the cake, commenting on its taste. "If I didn't know better I would have thought this cake was from the gods, but it was your making. Which strangely enough makes it... Tastier."

Enough with the flirting and romance for now, he has all evening and every other day for that, but since he does want to be in the baroness employ he needs to get back to work. At Retili's words he had his own theory to share, not that it would amount to much as they still wouldn't know how to handle it.
"With each passing clue and rumor, it seems to me it might be a case of a Greenman appearing here. Tiny little buggers with magical prowess, if you help them once even if unknowingly they will want to repay the favor, though their ways of repayment vary greatly. Had that happened to me once, I saved the little one as he was stuck in a bunch of burdock. After a few days I kept on finding burdock everywhere I went. Sadly I do not know how to handle one so they stop, as that case was fixed by a friend of mine. But I do have to concur we should go meet with the baroness, share what we know with her and those who went with her, and try to arrive at an answer or at least a plan for how to handle the issue going forth!"

 

[Elvario]

Tags and character goals:
Elvario Regula Caelia – Figure out the who, what and why of someone or something putting apples everywhere in her barony's capital.
TheTimePiece Teuihua – Assist the baroness.
conman2163 Retili Loxinofican – Assist the baroness.
Femboy Gunhild – Sneak into the baroness' room to warm her feet. Get pets. Assist the baroness with the apple quest. Get more pets.
Gaius Danius Griinia Izuru – Help out cause it's interesting.
Megilagor Alister Marrok – Get approved. | Get employed.
Giftvi Purpler – Gunhild.

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Caelia Barony's Keep's Study
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Stonewall, Keep, Study

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

Perhaps expecting her emotional support-Hild to spot the pattern was a tad too much. She shook her head. “I'm afraid it's not food.” The next bit confused her a bit. “No, it's not a magic well or hole either.” She wondered if she had indeed been reaching far-fetched conclusions, though Gunhild might not be the best one to try confirm that with.

Teuihua's conclusion was also different. Perhaps even way more thought-out then hers could ever be. If anything, it made her doubt her own conclusion for being too simplistic. “Ringo has left for Yemaya and the shrine's been mostly empty and unused since. I highly doubt that would warrant some sort of gift from an apple deity related to the shrine.”

She sighed, as she was now sure her thinking had been too haphazard.

Sherwood

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/D59q1n

“A tree.” He'd say, figuring he'd attempt to pitch in his own conclusion to the disappointed baroness. He'd soon regret it, as it have him her full attention and a smile so genuine that he was quick to say. “Excuse me.” To rush off before she'd ask him or thank him or something, or worse, praise him in front of others.

Regula, knowing how socially awkward the scout was, nodded. “You're excused.” That said... “It was what I was thinking, however, as the pattern is so simply that it looks like how apples would end up if they were falling from a tree. Do you remember that magic tower, Teuihua, Gunhild? What if this is similar?” She hoped that might be enough to help them reach similar conclusion. If it still wasn't, it'd only show her that she did, in fact, reach far-fetched conclusions. They'd already needed another spur, after all, which made her worry about her own theorising.

Lowrence

Spoiler: full image and source

From: https://v.viptuijian.com/p/52559.html

“That tower was surely an interesting experience.” He'd speak up. “I do hope I won't run into one of those weird trees again, like we did at the lake.” He'd state, looking at Teuihua. “Though if these apples were falling from a tree, the tree itself must be massive.”

--------------------------------​

The Keg
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Capital Town: Stonewall – Tavern.

From: https://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a147/Darsunne/0a55608e9d52edec15d4c6455736ec45_zpste7hezy9.jpg

Amika

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
cute fairy and shena the draw (elona) drawn by harusame_(rueken) | Danbooru

“About the baroness?” She was a tad surprised when the not-pet Purpler wished to know about her. “Which the rumours? Well, there's a lot of things I know for a fact! She's a really [Hip Noble] that tends to listen to commoners and whenever she comes around here, she's nice and talks to us and all. She's also really strong, because she defeated a really dangerous rogue construct back in Kirkwall. She also once brought over an entire Shrine from Morbella Barony in a Pocket Dimension, that got her into some trouble with the church, but she's sorted it all out. She also allows people without noble backgrounds to prove themselves and get high ranks if they do so, like Advisor Steelhaven, or even foreigners like Advisor Loxinofican. I've also heard she has some really powerful gear, like a cloak and gun and boots that are enchanted. I've never seen them in action, but I did seem them and they do look really powerful. She's also friends with just about everyone, I something think. Like this giant construct Teuihua that she treats like a friend. They also say she's really rich, which I think is true, although she seems to spent more on the barony than she earns from it, so perhaps it's due to her craft? Anyhow, if you see the Marshall, you should look at her legs, the baroness made those as well! Also, it's rumoured that she once helped out the See and did them a really big favour, or at least tried to do so? She's also gotten to power due to the previous count, count Light, ending up splitting off the county and forming his own Country after which he got executed and Count Sadek got appointed and Baroness Caelia got appointed her as she was sort-off familiar to count Light, but not enough to be associated, so she was given up a chance to clean up the mess, which she did remarkably well as people are no longer starving. It's also said that baron Highgrove envies her a lot as a result, but she's friends with baron Morbella and I think one of Duchess Brysta's daughters was also on good terms with her, or so are the rumours.”

She'd eye Retili for a moment. There was one juicy rumour she really wanted to talk about, but she didn't want the baroness' advisor to hear her do so. She'd lean over to whisper to Watching. “The juiciest rumour is that she is a total [tail freak] though. That she loves to pet the tails of people. They say it's due to her having been through some sort of trauma and that it's... what did they call it? A coping mechanism? Yet it would explain why she likes Gunhild so much and why she helped bring in various Kitsune's into the barony, even though they all go their own ways soon enough, like miss Ringo did. Perhaps she's too shy to ask them to stay? People do say that she's overly self-conscious, but like, she's a baroness, so she'd need to be, right? I'd imagine you'd need to be super-duper careful to keep up appearances as one, right? Although she five fox-like [beast] people working for her now. Although those are generally really clever and competent, so I highly doubt she hired them because they have tails. That'd be more likely for the Kitsune's she brought along after her island trip, but I think she just wants to give those a home as I heard they are homeless?” The girl finally realised she'd been whisper-rambling a lot. It was really easy to talk lots and lots to someone who couldn't get a word in, in reply. Literally. “Anyhow, those are all the rumours I can think off right now~ All in all, I think most are surprisingly positive!”

Hestia

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
shena the draw (elona) drawn by harusame_(rueken) | Danbooru

She nodded at Retili's confirmation about the apples being harmless. “Yes, Chef Todo confirmed it for us.”

Todo Sawl

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

From: https://www.deviantart.com/tanukiforever/art/Belialdorz-Bloodfang-764518909

​

“Yep, some grade-A quality harmless apples!” The chef would add.

She shrugged her shoulders at the baron Highgrove rumour. “Between you and me, he's an old man with too much ambition for his age. You never know what they get up too.” As for the other two rumours, she had to think. “On the interdimensional apple trees, I think it was some Fae adventurers heading to explore the dungeons in Yemaya. The curse one, I think... Hmmm. I think it was a soldier that returned from trying to fight the bugs on the East Empire and See border. I'm not sure where he headed, but I think he went toward Osun.” Looking at Inola, the fox would nod in confirmation, having remembered it the same. “Although if it's about Fae, trees and interdimensional stuff, mayor Prisca is sure to know more.”

Inola

Spoiler: Full Image and source

From:
Flambé by Kenny.Fox

“Oh my, sounds like I have an evening more eventful than this apple-filled morning~” She'd state, giving him a wink. “As interesting as it is to keep it hidden for a bit longer, I won't, name is Inola~”

As her hand was kissed, she'd chuckle. “Oh my, handsome and a gentleman!” Those were rare, these days. A pleasant laugh escaped her lips when she was told she'd out-cook a deity. “Thank you, though I'm not one to wage a food-war against the deities~ I'm already glad to beat chef Todo here on the odd occasion.” She'd lean in. “Though I feel like someone here can motivate me to win even more~”

As for Alister's suggestion of a Greenman, it remained silent for a bit. Hestia eventually spoke up. “I'm not sure what a Greenman is, but the involvement of some type of other Fae spirit could be possible? Or perhaps they're known by different names here. At the very least, overall, it should be plausible and would be in line with the some of the rumours.”

Should the party be wanting to go find the baroness, they'd be sent to the Keep's Study (where Gunhild and Teuihua are at) and would be able to meet up with them (in this round).

 

[TheTimePiece]

Teuihua
​

Mentions: Elvario Femboy

"I wasn't trying to insinuate it was a god of apples, what I was thinking there is a possibility it was a sign from the god of passage that someone important is coming." Teuihua would respond.

When Sherwood spoke up Teuihua would give him a thumbs up before he was dismissed.

"Nevertheless yes I remember the tree where it ensnared sentients into dancing, And I will say it is plausible that the pattern in which the apples fell could correlate to a tree, and as we know there is at least one strange tree in that area I suppose the possibilities of others isn't improbable."

Teuihua didn't particularly speak like he was super convinced one way or another of this theory, sounding more neutral as he recalled the facts. Then there was Lowrence, to which Teuihua would look too.

It was at that point when Teuihua made a connection again,

"What if the apples are from one of those trees, normally as far as we know a tree like that wouldn't be this potent, but what if one of those trees was receiving a power boost from some of those magical rocks from my time? If that was the case it wouldn't even necessarily need to be that large to have it's abilities greatly augmented to where it could produce apples to this range, and we know that at least some of those magic..I think the word I have heard is ..magic battery like rocks? remain in that area where those trees can be found."

"If you are ruling out what i mentioned previously completely based on the current set of information then something like what I just said would be my next extrapolation and theory." He would conclude, awaiting to see if that was what Regula was thinking, at the very least that it was strange tree related or if his entire thought had any merit.

 

[conman2163]

Retili Loxinofican
Character Sheet​

Elvario TheTimePiece Femboy Gaius Danius Griinia Giftvi


The keen ears and constant [Perception C] of the Zentox meant he picked up a little bit of what Amika was saying. “... rumour ... freak ... pet … people ... trauma … coping ... Gunhild ... Kitsune's ... Ringo… shy … conscious ... baroness …. appearances ... five fox-like … competent ... tails … island ... home … homeless?” Was all he heard. It didn't make a whole lot of sense at first, until she said something about the Baroness. Then Retili felt that he could reasonably conclude what the conversation was about. It made it hard to focus as Hestia spoke to him though. so he turned his attention back to Hestia. Retili nodded as Hestia gave some more information on where each of the rumors came from. They would bear investigating if they couldn't find anything around Stonewall to conclude the investigation. The Zentox eyed the beast-kin curiously as he flirted with Inola, then turned his eyes back to Hestia. "Hestia, you've been very helpful. You as well Inola, Todo, and Amika. I must take my leave now. The Baroness will want to know all of what we have heard so far. " He turned towards Alister and Watching. "You two may follow me, we are off to find Lady Caelia." He did not address Izuru, but instead walked out of the Tavern. A short while later they were approaching the keep. As they did, Retili stopped in front of it and turned to his guards. If Izuru were still following them, he would point to him and order them to keep him out of the keep. The ten guards were left behind as they ventured further into it and eventually made their way to the Keep's study. It was an often frequented room for Retili. Inside already he found Lowrence, Teuihua, Gunhilda, and the Baroness.

He bowed to Regula as they entered. "Lady Caelia, we have spoken to both Miss Gwenith and Miss Hestia, but to we have found precious little in the way of credible information. The only thing concrete we have determined is that the apples are of both high quality and safe to eat. Though they seem to be getting some of the local cows drunk due to some strangeness with their stomach allowing them to ferment. There are some rumors I can follow up on, but they are not particularly credible or likely in my estimation."

Spoiler: abilities

[/COLOR]

• Caelia Savant C - Law C, Warfare D, Business E, Academia F, Area Knowledge [Caelia Barony] F - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Retili uses his comprehensive knowledge built up through years of study to overcome issues that smooth talking might not otherwise be capable of.
• Charismatic Scribe C - Insight C, Perception C, Empathy C, Persuasion C - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Using his quick wit and fast mind, Retili talks his way around and through problems that he encounters.
• Noble Bearing C - Etiquette E, Law C, Academia F, Persuasion C, Empathy C, Perception C, Insight C, Business E - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - After some time spent in study, on the road, and in the court of nobles Retili has learned the way and bearing required to be at least adequate in the many skills expected of nobility.

 

[Femboy]

(cant think of much to write rn)
Gunhild
11

(Titles: Beast, Fae, Large, Thoroughly Petted, Rockologist, Otherworlder (Isekai'd), Caelia Shrine Ally, Heavy-Duty Labourer, Incompetent, Speech-Delayed, One with Lymantraius Rex)
Character Sheet
Character Theme
Languages: Common, {Sylvan}, <Beastial>, |Abyssal|

Gunhild cheerfully made small grumbly noises and swayed her head and tail to Teuihua giving her a little praise for attempting to contribute to the whole conversation. Though after a very brief moment of enjoying the given acknowledgement by her Metalmans fren, she was shortly enough shot down with two separate denials as to her suggestions by Regula as the birdlady apparently held different ideas in mind. Otherwise, she quietly awaited upon Teuihua's shoulder as she listened to Regula mention about the tower. She had never actually seen it, but maybe it was a case as she tilted her head a little.

"Beeg rock-house tolhouse alsos a appy's?" Gunhild confusedly asked, not really getting it since they weren't at all the same thing. It also wasn't like the apples were continuing to move around and were in copious amounts in comparison to the singular teleporting tower. So for now, she just held rather quiet and stayed along to whatever was happening.

Actions
1. Size Change F + Energized F (4'1")​

 

[Giftvi]

Watching of Reflection

Ambient Vibes

Point Booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | <Bestial>
Titles: Beast [Mundane], Hunter, Guardian
Interaction: conman2163 Elvario Gaius Danius Griinia Megilagor Femboy

The small little critter would nod affirmatively at each sentence, its curiosity certainly piqued to hear so many of the rumors or hearsay of the Duchess who he met just a little prior. It was always curious to hear what other people had to say about someone, rather then oneself, or their closest friends or trusted folk. Because sometimes it was a bit embezzling, or it also held a lot more truth around it after all.

Watching of Reflection looked towards miss Amika, and began to write down upon its little wooden board. "Huh, well thank you. That will be a lot remember. But it sounds like you've a lot of affection for the Duchess then. Or at least that is how it comes through to me. Good to hear, I seem to have chosen a great place to stop by then." After which it looked towards Retili who seemed to be rounding the rest of them up, as he was wanting to head out already. It nodded and gave a wave over to Amika as it began to leave. Walking side by side with Alister and Izuru as they left the Keg following Retili.

Seeing Retili's guards station and hold out Izuru it stopped for a moment, giving pause, but it didn't seem to interject or do anything of such matter at all. Simply continuing to move along with Alister in tow after a few moments of standing still. Giving way to some thoughts perchance as it thought about the situation before it.

Entering the keep it certainly glanced around with some frequency, though its face didn't show to be one of bewilderment. It had walked through Stonewall before after all, and likely it had walked through other settlements before this one. But still a general air of curiosity did generally surface from the sight of how it stared, especially if there were any pieces of artwork or other detailed pieces or carvings around the hallways.

As they began to come up to the meeting hall where the lady Regula was conversing with the Mayor and Teuihua it would take out its wooden drawing board once more for it needed to talk a. Following in slight bow. Before its head raised once more to give a glance around the room it had entered. Certainly many things seemed to peek its interest as it lingered upon them.

But its eyes stared longer then at any of them towards Gunhild. Whom unlike before, when standing in the actual town square would had reached a height at about sixteen foot tall, yet now she was only actually about its own height instead. As its small little head pulled back for a moment at the realisation and confusion which soon followed for itself.

But Watching didn't interject into the conversation in any suddenness. Nor make any proclamations upon its small wooden board to show to the others in the room. Certainly not as Retili spoke up himself and proclaimed very little was credible or likely in his own opinion. Though standing so close by to Regula again it could begin to feel that slight bit of stress boiling up again. Especially as her eyes met its, that odd sensation of how it was looked at didn't sit comfortably with it. Though as to why that was, well it was a bit clearer now then before.

 

[Megilagor]

Alister Marrok
Languages: Common | ^Ancient Hermese^
Mention: Gaius Danius Griinia , Elvario , conman2163 , Giftvi

"Beautiful name for a beautiful lady. Inola~" Alister nearly whispered those words to Inola upon learning of her name, it has been the first time since the second epoch that he felt this type of way towards someone. He might have been a mutt of war, but even to him, love is the strongest drug. At Hestia's words Alister explained the Greenman in the simplest and shortest form he could manage, after all, if they did exist in this world then he doubted they wouldn't be involved in it. But again this is a different world so, maybe he should stop with the prejudice he earned in his past world.
"That is true sadly, even if we are speaking of the same thing we might not know due to dialects and such. But Greenman are a type of sprite, something between a Faerie and a ghost, usually looking like a very small person clad in green or of green skin itself if not made of plant matter entirely. Most of them are as tall as an apple but some are as big as a pumpkin. If you don't help them they usually pay back by spoiling your food. Had a little plaque of those buggers a few decades ago back home."

"Well, it seems it is our time for now Inola dear. I'll await you during the evening near here, for our little star-struck stroll."
Said Alister while slightly bowing to everyone at the Keg, but his eyes still looking at Inola seeing as Retili decided that it is time to move out to Lady Caelia.
As they walked there Alister muttered under his own breath "Ah, it has been several decades if not epochs since I wanted to be with someone so much. One more reason to stay here though." Alister didn't bat much of his attention when Retili ordered his man to bar entry for Izuru, he was ill-mouthed and reaching for status he did not have, so he understood why it happened to Izuru. Alister simply bowed to Lady Caelia when they entered the room, and then he knelt on one of his knees near Retili, keeping his mouth silent for as long as he was speaking and some more, as proper etiquette dictated he should not speak to his lordship without getting their permission first. Sure lady Caelia might not be that prickly about that kind of etiquette but even then there is an image to uphold.

 

[Elvario]

Tags and character goals:
Elvario Regula Caelia – Figure out the who, what and why of someone or something putting apples everywhere in her barony's capital.
TheTimePiece Teuihua – Assist the baroness.
conman2163 Retili Loxinofican – Assist the baroness.
Femboy Gunhild – Sneak into the baroness' room to warm her feet. Get pets. Assist the baroness with the apple quest. Get more pets.
Gaius Danius Griinia Izuru – Help out cause it's interesting.
Megilagor Alister Marrok – Get approved. | Get employed.
Giftvi Purpler – Gunhild.

--------------------------------​

Caelia Barony's Keep's Study
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Stonewall, Keep, Study

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

“Right.” She'd state upon Teuihua, as she thought over his correction. “Perhaps.” She yawned. Realising the lack of sleep and early rise had been adding up. “In such a case, we'd have to wait it out, I fear.” She wouldn't know what else to do or prepare.

When Teuihua spoke about trees getting a power boost, she would nod. “Not just that, remember the tower being sort-off like, both in this dimension and not? Both in this time and the past? What if a tree can exist like that as well?” The logical next step was the apples simply breaking through the barrier in space and/or time where the tree itself couldn't.

When Retili joined them, she would nod. “Perhaps some of those rumours can confirm or deny what we've found, look.” She pointed at the map. “Sherwood was able to finish up putting down all the patterns in which the apples have been found. Doesn't it look somewhat recognisable?”

“It's a real relief they are safe to eat though, that had me worried. You hear that Gunhild?” She'd ask the lizard. “You can have all the apples you want now.” She was glad she could offer the goodest Gunhild at least that much.

“As for the rumours, could you share the ones that seemed like they might have the most concrete leads to them?” She asked, wondering if anything would add up with what she already knew.

She'd notice the purple one and Alister entering, though she wondered why neither of them was speaking. Or well, drawing in the case of one. Until she realised. “Ah, did you two have anything to add?” They might just feel hesitant in case they thought Retili would be the only one allowed to talk.

That said, she did want to move towards a next plan of action. “I'm debating to move out and find the centre of this 'circle' of where apples appeared. Even if it's not a tree, you'd expect something there, a clue of sorts, no?” She offered. “I'll take to the skies, the rest of you can see if you can find anything from the ground.”

Small Side-Path
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Road between Stonewall and Yemaya – Side-path in the direction of Sootspire

From:
Speedpaint 59 Motley Grass by RHADS on DeviantArt

The attempt to find the centre of the map would lead the group to a small side-path in the direction of Sootspire. Although, once there, nothing would instantly stand out. They'd need to rely on their skills or on lucky guesses to see if they could figure out anything more about this area.

 

[Femboy]

Gunhild
12

(Titles: Beast, Fae, Large, Thoroughly Petted, Rockologist, Otherworlder (Isekai'd), Caelia Shrine Ally, Heavy-Duty Labourer, Incompetent, Speech-Delayed, One with Lymantraius Rex)
Character Sheet
Character Theme
Languages: Common, {Sylvan}, <Beastial>, |Abyssal|
Elvario TheTimePiece Giftvi Gaius Danius Griinia conman2163 Megilagor

Patiently sitting upon Teuihua's shoulder as Regula mentioned the apples indeed being safe to eat, of which wasn't much thought considering Gunhild had already partook in the consumption of one anyway. What she was a little confused about were who all of the arriving strangers were, but would soon enough come to realise that they were indeed faces she had seen before. Retili back in the keep, and the others... when she last saw them earlier, with what felt like the exception of the stranger appy-man who for some reason wasn't present. Maybe he was one of the apple-placers after all and had gotten imprisoned or something. Either way, her eyes for a moment met with Watching's, not really sure at all what the purple thing was supposed to be or why it was looking at her. Gunhild just silently stared back the entire time others and Regula were talking about the whole appy thing whilst giving a light tilt of her head in both curiosity and confusion up until it appeared like they were going somewhere else.

Gunhild remained rather silent and just calmly relaxed upon her large metal friend's shoulder using them as a nice, heated and elevated place to lie whilst they travelled out to the target place of interest to look around of which (presumably) she'd notice they were once more joined by Izuru. Even though the strange staring of the purple lizard thingy was making her very curious, she should probably remember to focus on helping Regula with her whole appy-quest thing so that Gunhild could get that praise sooner than never.

Sitting up, Gunhild grumbled quietly to Metalmans and lightly patted at him with her clawed hand to let her big friend know that she was getting off, gently scooting to the edge of his shoulder before quickly scampering her way down and dropping near to his feet.
"Thankies, Metalmans" Gunhild spoke and softly chirped with small noises after as she looked up at Teuihua, taking a first look around the area as she turned her head. There was nothing obvious she could notice anyway.

Looking to Watching who had stared at her before, Gunhild scampered around in quadruped fashion up to the purple creature and lightly tried to briefly circle them for an investigative look. People usually didn't just randomly stare at Gunhild without having some thought behind it. Eventually having looked enough and closely looking at Watching's face, she made another small chirpy sound before speaking.
"Gunhild is Gunhild, Purpytingy fren, is fren? Gunhild fren, yesses" Gunhild added, giving another tilt of the head and lightly batting her hand towards Watching in playful curiosity like an animal as she soon after turned her attention to the forests. She should probably do something to help with the search, after all.

"Gunhild frens do a caresies, Gunhild no want hurties frenses, is bad do, sads thingy" Gunhild briefly added as she moved off to what she was going to do.

Making sure to be aware of her surroundings and taking a decent little walk away from the others and other obstructions to be careful of her surroundings, Gunhild made sure that the space around as well as above her was in the clear. Even though she wasn't somewhere so public and busy like the fair, it was important just in case. Concentrating on her own inner capabilities, she channelled what was keeping her small in order to flick the switch the opposite direction and shift herself to her current highest capability of 32' (or 30', whatever it's supposed to be). Managing to get to her full size, Gunhild would let out a heavy sigh and place her hands to the back of her waist to push forward and take a big stretch.

"Hnngh- ahh, Gunhild hardie, rock-feel... like rock. Steeflesies... no steefles, is nicies. Gunhild be's a softies, not steefies, is goodest do, yesses... " Gunhild grumbled and sighed to herself as she stretched, having spent quite a while lounging around as a Smolhild prior. Now that she was much larger, she'd have a better chance looking around the area to spot if there was anything truly obvious.

Though thinking it might not work, Gunhild put together another idea in order to see if there was anything of interest she could pick up via scent in the air. Leaning in and around as she took a large sniff of the local area if there was anything to pick up on, she'd glance to see if there was anything in the way not wanting to accidentally hit anything like a passing airborne Regula before enacting in her plan to help sift through the smells of the area.

"Caresies frenses, Gunhild do a do. Gunhild caresies, no hurtsies ors scarysies a frenses, Gunhild do helpies, yesyessies" the big lizard added with a cheerful smile, wanting to help with the quest. She wanted to make complete sure she wouldn't damage anything or hurt anyone anywhere around her in the vicinity.

Checking the space near her feet was clear, she'd slowly thud and drop back to all-fours to hold her back-end and tail higher in the air towards the density of the local forests. Utilising a combination of targetted elasticity and floofy-powers she had picked up elsewhere, she'd choose to fluff herself up in great and beautifully poofy quantity along with increasing her tail size even further. Now her tail was like one big floofy sweeper she could use to sweep a not-too-harsh breeze across the woods in different directions to try and sort through smells on a larger area. That, or she might just startle any unexpecting bad-do-doer.

She made sure to keep her front low and back end high, making sure that she was keeping sure she wouldn't hit anything or affect her local companions and frens by what she was doing, occasionally leaning forward and taking in more whiffs of the woods to see if there was anything.

Actions
1. Size Change (F) + Energized (F) to reach 32' (or watever max is)
2. Heightened Sense (E) + Energized (E) to keep investigating the smell of the area.
3. Feature (Fur Growth) + Elasticity (F) + Energized (F) to become all floofy and use a much more lengthened and floofy tail to sweep above the treeline and sweep a breeze in different directions to sift through smells from different directions.​

 

[Gaius Danius Griinia]

Izuru
Mentions: Elvario Femboy

The entire time the group was in the keep courtesy of Lentil telling the guards to prevent Izuru from getting anywhere near the baroness. Izuru himself was consulting his eldritch research notes. These had literally nothing to do with the matter at hand but the the dragonkin needed to make absolutely sure he actually understood them so he can use them when the time came. He then sat with the guards and offered them some of the treats he procured from the inn. No doubt they'd had an early start courtesy of the whole apple incident. Not getting ones breakfast could be an annoying matter. "I know what its like to skip a meal because of circumstances you can't control. Eat your fill while I go over some of the stuff I learned today" said Izuru, doing his best to try and break through their professionalism.

Once the Baroness had returned and presumably did her best to treat him like he was some kind of ignorant pest. Izuru followed along with the group. Honestly he felt unwanted and disliked from almost all sides save for those like Watching of Reflection and Tehuihua. While doing his best not to contemplate just up and leaving everything given the treatment he was getting. The dragonkin was reunited with the strange lizardkin from before. Looking on in awe as her size dramatically increased from the comparatively compact form from before. He was unsure of exactly what she was doing with her tail. Needless to say, he decided to simply begin applying his own skills to the current task. Although his motivation was slowly being sapped by the moment.

---

Actions:
1. Persuasion E on the guards so they'd eat the appy foods since they might not have eaten breakfast.
2. Appraisal E + Arcana E + Investigation F on the field

 

[Giftvi]

Watching of Reflection

Ambient Vibes

Point Booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | <Bestial>
Titles: Beast [Mundane], Hunter, Guardian
Interaction: conman2163 Elvario Gaius Danius Griinia Megilagor Femboy

Standing there as Regula addressed both it and Alister, it looked not to be taken aback by the fact that she was asking forts opinion. After all she had seemed all to happy to have it help out as much as it could upon its own request to provide aid, but it looked stumped for a moment as it didn't immediately begin to write down upon its wooden board. Instead it looked towards Regula always as its it tapped its foot upon the floor.

It stood around a bit befuddled by what it had heard so far before beginning to write down what would be most central upon its own mind before anything else. "The only thing of note I would immediately think upon in all honesty would be the fact I've not once thought of this as an act of malice. If whatever was happening was to any degree wilfully done. The apples are edible, and many seem to state they are incredibly delicious. Perchance this couldn't have been a wilful action, but rather a chaotic magical circumstance at play. But if wilful I see it as simply someone enjoying the chaos, and whom could be hoping that everyone in this town makes best simply of the opportunity given. Though I do hope that if the apples may bear new fruit it doesn't ruin the shine of all apples beside it here in the area.""We can be friends, if you would like that. It is nice to meet you Gunhild.

Having said so it began to slowly wipe again the paints upon its board once more, and began to slowly walk together with Teuihua, Regula and the others towards wherever this specific destination or center that woas being spoken of was to be. As they began to step out of the keep it would wave towards Izuru, though seeing him seem so deflated as they sunk into themselves in this moment was a sight for sore eyes. As it would approach and walk besides him.

As Gunhild on their way to the actual location began to circle around Watching, it would look a bit taken aback, as almost any sense of personal space was quickly ignored by her. As she stood in front of it and stared back. Speaking in the broken up language which she always did, it cocked its head and seemed to be pondering for a little moment before writing down on its wooden board in greenish tones smearing its fingers, "We can be friends, if you would like that. It is nice to meet you Gunhild."

Not understanding what Gunhild was bout to do, but understand a general idea of warning that she gave Watching stood back for a little bit as Gunhild would transform into her full height, standing at a full thirty-two feet she had grown to become nervous. As her form stood tall her and her tail sewpt the grassy plains, it began to pick up a harsh wind that swept blades of grass across the area. Perhaps making Watching quite glad that it wasn't spring, or it would have begun to have quite the sneezing fit from all of the pollen which would have been thrown around by the act itself.

Standing around it was a visibly a bit apprehensive to do a specific thing, as they stood in front of open plains which seemed to be barren or anything of note in actual sight. Yet the fact it was proclaimed that something stood here in the centre of it all confused Watching to a good degree, as it began to walk around the area. If there was any degree of a tree being here as some of them had proclaimed rather then attempting to look for the actual stem of it, Watching began to go low to the ground. Feeling and looking around the area for any roots which surfaced the ground or places where the earth seemed to unnaturally be raised under the thickets of grass to follow the direction of where it grew from. As any attempt to make out more quiet sounds of steps or anything of the kind would be hindered by the chaos ensuing from Gunhild's rambunctious movements. Or if it found none of such, standing watch to see whatever success any other might have had so far.
{Perception (F) + Survival (F)}

 

[TheTimePiece]

Teuihua
​

Interactions: Elvario Femboy

"These are certainly Peculiarities I was not expecting to be present even well beyond my time. Hm This is all rather fascinating if this line of reasoning is true, a tree which is like that magic tower which we saw producing apples like this in most unusual ways...I hope that you are correct, I believe that would be a much more straight forward fix if it is the case rather than some sort of divine message."

He'd give a nod when Regula disclosed her plan. "Very well I will see what I can find."

Teuihua would then diligently head to the area to investigate, presumably where others were as well who had come to assist.

During the way in their travels the [Sentry] kept a look out for anything dangerous or unusual and allowed Gunhild to rest upon him. When she indicated she was ready to get off, Teuihua would lower himself some and nod, "Of course Gunhild, it is no problem at all." He'd reply in a friendly enough tone.

"And right you are best to be careful if you're going to be large." Teuihua said approvingly at Gunhild's desire to do no harm.

While Gunhild became lorghild and tried to gain information, as did others, The golem would join in trying to gather some information as well.

He'd leverage his [360 Degree vision] + Perception C to see if he could learn anything of use in the area.

 

[conman2163]

Retili Loxinofican
Character Sheet​

Elvario TheTimePiece Femboy Gaius Danius Griinia Giftvi

Retili took a brief look at the map and nodded. "It does seem to have a definite pattern. Though as for recognisable i'm not so certain. As for rumors, some say that it's a curse that's causing the apples to appear. Some say it's a fae spell gone bad intended to inflict the empire but misfiring. Some say that there's some sort of plot by the highgrove barony. The most credible theory, especially given the pattern, is that it might be some sort of interdimensional or magical apple tree. Ah, there was also a rumor that it had something to do with the same civilization Teuihua is from." He said, listing off the info the Baroness had requested. "I would agree that would be a good next step. If we can find a clue we could bring the investigation to a close. Otherwise we might find the cause itself." He departed towards the indicated spot. As they got closer, Retili would keep an eye out with his [Perception C], hoping to catch any important details that might provide clues. With him was fifteen of his personal guard, the rest were left at the Stonewall keep.

Spoiler: abilities

[/COLOR]

• Caelia Savant C - Law C, Warfare D, Business E, Academia F, Area Knowledge [Caelia Barony] F - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Retili uses his comprehensive knowledge built up through years of study to overcome issues that smooth talking might not otherwise be capable of.
• Charismatic Scribe C - Insight C, Perception C, Empathy C, Persuasion C - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Using his quick wit and fast mind, Retili talks his way around and through problems that he encounters.
• Noble Bearing C - Etiquette E, Law C, Academia F, Persuasion C, Empathy C, Perception C, Insight C, Business E - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - After some time spent in study, on the road, and in the court of nobles Retili has learned the way and bearing required to be at least adequate in the many skills expected of nobility.

 

[Elvario]

Tags and character goals:
Elvario Regula Caelia – Figure out the who, what and why of someone or something putting apples everywhere in her barony's capital.
TheTimePiece Teuihua – Assist the baroness.
conman2163 Retili Loxinofican – Assist the baroness.
Femboy Gunhild – Sneak into the baroness' room to warm her feet. Get pets. Assist the baroness with the apple quest. Get more pets.
Gaius Danius Griinia Izuru – Help out cause it's interesting.
Megilagor Alister Marrok – Get approved. | Get employed.
Giftvi Purpler – Gunhild.

Discord Dice Rolls;
Gunhild = 12 +2 = 14
Izuru = 20 +1 = 21
Purpler = 9 +1 =10
Teuihua = 12 +4 = 16
Retili = 15 +4 = 19

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Small Side-Path
Country of Ryken, County of Sadek, Barony of Caelia. Road between Stonewall and Yemaya – Side-path in the direction of Sootspire

From:
Speedpaint 59 Motley Grass by RHADS on DeviantArt

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

She'd taken in the information from Purpler and Retili with a nod. It seemed like she was not the only one to suspect a relatively harmless interdimensional magic tree after all.

After that, Regula had gone ahead of the group to scout from above for a bit, although she noticed absolutely nothing of importance. After circling the area a few times to make sure, she was about to find a place to land... Only to see Gunhild grow absolutely enormous.

The big girl herself didn't smell anything out of the ordinary. What shrubs there were on these plains were probably tough de separate from trees for the Biggesthild, so her tail would find itself swaying across the shrubs and grasses on plains, making them bend and even uproot a little at the force of her swaying tail. That said, she didn't manage to pick up on anything of interest.

Careful not to get caught (even though part of her kind of wanted too), Regula would fly near Gunhild. “Wow... is it me, or is this the biggest you've ever been... and the floofiest...?” She'd learned one thing about the girl. Being direct was easiest. The fact that Gunhild just threw an S-grade mental attack Regula's made her struggle not to go all-out on the [Tail Freak]. That said, she was a baroness first, a degenerate second. That meant she just had to plan for the future, instead of acting on impulses. “Say, Gunhild, once this is resolved, how about after this is resolved, we stay behind for a bit? I really want to pet your tail when it's as big and fluffy as it is now. In turn, I'll allow you to hug me, if you still want to do so.” It was a good thing they were a fair bit of distance away from the others.

Meanwhile, Izuru would've been able to distract Retili's guards (Persuasion E vs. Character Grade E) with the appeal of fresh and great smelling foods, but he wouldn't be able to persuade them to actually eat any of it due to prior warnings and discipline... though probably mostly due to the fact that their species lived on a diet that probably made it impossible to digest such foods to begin with (unless conman2163 wishes to say otherwise).

As for how the baroness treated him, she'd not go out of her way to treat him like a pest, she'd just ignore him. He'd been rude enough for her to wish to do so, but otherwise she harboured no particular ill will, at least not than what her professional reputation demanded. That said, when they arrived on the field, Izuru immediately spotted a feint glow somewhere that seemed to have some magical properties to it. He was the first to spot it as well, though Retili would pick on it a bit after he did. The faint glow was coming from underneath a shrub, being a greenish hue that seemed like a light was trying to shine its upwards from out of the ground, albeit highly dimmed.

Purpler would notice they were in some plains for sure... He also noticed that some of the roots here might be edible. It was only when he stood watch that he spotted Izuru (and a bit later, Retili) had spotted something of a bit more interest to the party.

Teuihua was third to spot it, a bit after Izuru and Retili had.

Retili, (or perhaps one of his men) was able to find the greenish hue coming from below the ground a bit after Izuru did.

Should any of the three that spotted it first (Izuru, Retili, Teuihua) approach the greenish hue stemming from the ground, their senses would suddenly start confusing them. For a split second, it would be like they were seeing two realities at once. One was the one they were in, in the other, they were standing before an apple tree with its branches seemingly stretching on nearly endlessly.

Spoiler

Imagine this, but spanning across the entire town and its surrounding area.

Oddly enough, for as big as the tree was, the apples were the exact same shape and size of the once they'd been finding all thought-out. However, as quickly as the vision arrived, it vanished again...

Except for the fact that they would now find apples laying all around them. Something that was also noticed by those that hadn't been able to see the tree vision itself.

In fact, Gunhild, large as she was, was getting pelted by apples falling atop of her. Even one of Retili's man suddenly had apples appear directly on top of him, which momentarily scared the daylight out of the guard.

“What the...” Regula stated, flying down toward the others, the apples being enough to stop her from staring wishfully at Gunhild's tail for a moment. “Did anyone see where all these came from?” She asked, having not yet spotted the odd green hue.

 

[Gaius Danius Griinia]

Izuru
Mentions: Elvario conman2163 Giftvi

Once his eyes had wandered away from the massive lizard that had towered over them after only just being normal sized. Izuru noticed a faint glow coming from beneath a shrubbery. His instincts as both a mage and an investigator were telling him that whatever this was; it certainly was out of place here. Approaching the thing only brought his senses into disarray as his mind was assaulted with the sight of a colossal tree that somehow was and yet wasn't there. Likely it inhabited its own space between dimensions but the dragonkin wasn't educated enough on the topic to figure it out fully. Coughing a bit while his mind settled back down. The tree would up and disappear on him, leaving more apples in its wake. Taking a second to regain his bearings. Izuru frowned at how unorthodox the situation had become, despite how strange things were in the first place.

If his theory was correct; which he hoped it wasn't. All of this had seemingly stemmed from this magical tree, a plant which may have sentience. A development like this was most problematic given that magical plants couldn't be negotiated with or forcibly removed through regular means. Likely Regula and Lentil would end up having no shortage of issues trying to solve the issue. Not beholden to anyone or anything. Izuru decided that he would simply find the tree and solve things with everything at HIS disposal. First he used his [Magic E] combined his [Control Environment F] with his [Darkness E] in order to set up a wavelength of magical energy to spread around. After that he performed an inspection of the area with [Arcane E] and [Investigation F] in order to see if anything would get picked up.

---

Actions:
.Magic Wavelength = Magic E + Darkness E + Control Environment F
.Investigate = Arcane E + Investigation F

 

[Megilagor]

Alister Marrok
Point booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | ^Ancient Hermese^
Mention: Gaius Danius Griinia , Elvario , conman2163 , Giftvi

"Sadly not lady Caelia. As theories aren't worth much if they aren't supported by the happenstance of the situation. Though I have to be grateful for your permission nevertheless." Alister answered when Regula gave him permission to speak, honestly, he felt that he hadn't done much so far, he felt that he could have done more, but sadly in his current state, it would be hard to do. Not having much to add Alister did not speak after that, simply deciding to follow the group, while trying to remember their scents in case he will ever need to find them or exclude them from the search.

Soon enough they arrived at some nice little plain area with an old path going through the middle. It appeared to be in the middle of the area that was shown on the map. What did surprise Alister though was the change in size from the Gunhild lass, honestly she seemed to only be dwarfed by the giants of old from his lands.
"Gunhild right? I have to say it's been a long while since I saw someone so big. The last one was an ancient giant though so it's not exactly a fair game of comparison. Being as small as that guy's pinky still feels weird to me." Said Alister shivering a bit with his fur being fluffed up at just the thought of meeting the person again, being so small and having to spar with something so big wasn't something he wanted to remember, especially since if not for the blessing of his lord Medici and that annoying and conniving snake Amon, he most likely would be dead in that sparring match.

Seeing as others began searching for the source in their own ways Alister decided to try something himself, a little sniff with his Heightened Sense of Smell [F], his Perception [F], and Appraisal [F] granted to him during his coming to this world. He tried to pick up on any scents that should not be here, after all, he knew how a regular plain smelt, and how his companions smelled, maybe he could find something.

But as he finished this act he saw how a multitude of apples began to fall from nowhere, knowing that Inola liked them, Alister took off his shirt and tied it together to make a makeshift sack to catch the falling apples. having collected a decent amount he tied the sack to his waist. Hearing Regula's question Alister answered simply.
"I did not see, but I did smell a new scent when he/them went further into the plain. So perhaps we should check there?"

 

[TheTimePiece]

Teuihua
​

Teuihua would go toward the glowing, and was on alert, "There appears to be a source of glowing here, which could suggest magic or something else lets take additional caution." He'd announce to the group as he approached. What he hadn't exactly been expecting was for even his vision ability to feel kind of funny as well as the feelings he was perceiving as it seemed like everything got kind of funky when he got close to the glowing. It was at that point Teuihua would see the large tree with too many branches even for him to count in a timely way, with how they seemed to spread out and then lots of apples.

What was more curious was that apparently approaching the tree caused apples to appear around them once again.

+What do you want?+" "+What do you need?+" Teuihua would ask in Mict matter of fact just on the off chance whatever this was or whatever was causing it could infact understand his language if it was related to his civilization at all. It wasn't long however before he spoke to the group after presumably hearing the Baroness.

"Yes it would appear there is a very large tree which is functioning sort of like the magic tower in that it is here and then not here and I believe it is likely that it is producing the apples as we thought was a possability to be the source of this. What I am uncertain is if it is receiving a bolster from something around here like I mentioned previously like an ancient magical power source or something of the like.."

Teuihua would examine the area around to see if there was anything of interest in that regard which could further explain what was going on. "Even so I Suggest exercising additional caution in such..a disorientating and potentially unstable environment, even if there do not appear to be any hostiles."

If he couldn't find anything helpful hopefully someone else with the skills to do so would be able too, while he didn't exactly think there'd be any interdimensional enemies for him to have to deal with, the golem wouldn't be too careful ready to throw down if it was deemed necessary, granted he knew how strong Regula was, if anything they were considerably safer with her around it felt like when it came to those sorts of threats, hopefully as more of his power got unlocked and restored, he'd be even more useful in that regard..for now staying on guard and information searching.