Fantasy Setting Summer Dawn

[SilverFlight]

Desrick was taken aback. Of all the things the elf could have said, that hadn't been in the forefront of Desrick's mind.
"No, I suppose I'm not," he agreed.
Marking the grevious injuries on the arm he had grabbed Desrick loosened his grip considerably, but still did not let go.
"Really? You could have stopped Evereach from doing what they wanted? That. Is a very bold claim." Though Desrick was curious now. Just who was this elf, who walked the streets of a town still reeling from his people's attack?
When he said he wanted to speak Desrick finally let him go.
"You should have the arm seen to." He rumbled gruffly.
He was about to say more when a familiar voice caught him off guard. He turned almost too quickly.
"L-Lohrithe."
The drow seemed to have been the one to ask the only sensible question out of the two of them. And a part od Desrick was thankful the strange elf was the focus for now.
"That is exactly what I want to know. We should bring him to the others. We certainly can't let him wander free about Delan. Ora might be able to tell us more about him."
Desrick turned to lead the way.
"If he tries anything," he spoke softly to his drow friend. "Gut him."
LazyDaze Zazz

~*~*~

The house was standing, etched in moonlight, There was a lantern by the small, rounded front door. Crispin looked up from his work sanding new beams and frowned when he saw Desrick and Lohr escorting a strange elf. "You're not going to tell me we're taking prisoners now. House is full enough as it is."
"He's not a prisoner." Desrick replied. "At least, not yet."
When he spoke again it was to address Iolas. "We will wait for the others here. There are several healers in our party. They will tend you if I ask."
LazyDaze Zazz Flutterby

Pyrrhus slowed his pace but didn't stop when the young woman pursued him, peppering him with questions.
"Hmm, its not really a subject for those who are...inexperienced in the ways of the world. We'll likely need people who have an certain ability to defend themselves...and others, but if you can promise that I don't see why you couldn't come and listen."
hwayi Yatasal

 

[LazyDaze]

Without a doubt Desrick did Iolas a favor by being gentle with his arm, even so nothing made Iolas more relieved than when Iolas let go. He was surprised, but there was no way he was going to complain about this. Iolas in turn took his hand off of his blade. He could tell the orc had questions, and he could not blame him for any doubt he possessed in his abilities, for even Iolas knew the level of arrogance interwoven in his claims. He might as well have said he could stop storms and destroy mountains. Just when he thought luck was on his side a voice called out from behind him. He was most likely an acquaintance of the orc he was already dealing with. This was exactly what he was trying to avoid. Iolas tried to become invisible by thinking invisible thoughts; however, his lack of magic betrayed him when Lohrithe noticed he was not from around here. Iolas answered his question with a smile and enjoyed the dynamic between Desrick and Lohrithe. He allowed them to finally make their decisions and was pleased to hear that they were getting away from the main street. All was well, unless you count the threat of being gutted.

When they arrived at the house Iolas slowly took down his hood and lowered his scarf. He greeted Crispin’s comments with a half hearted smile and continued to allow them to discuss things amongst themselves. If they were willing to intentionally, or unintentionally give up information without prying or prompting then he wouldn’t dare stop them. He found an opportunity to speak in order to ease some of their worries at the very least.

“To answer your question,” Iolas began as he turned toward the drow, “I'll have to kill you if I tell you my identity. No I am jesting of course. I am no one special. My name is Iolas Orixalim, nothing more, nothing less.”

Iolas then turned toward Desrick. From the brief interactions he had with him, he could tell he was resepcted within his social group. “I had been tracking a group of Sumennans ever since I saw their camp in the Half Sun Hills. When I got here I ran into a nasty demon who wanted to play tag, so we did that for a few days. When we grew tired of the game I picked up the trail again, but it was too late by then. So I am here, seeking information. It is about all I can do since no one here would readily accept the help of a high elf.”

Iolas took a moment to take in the scenary once again. He looked at his arm and decided it was getting pretty bad. “I suppose I will get this arm healed if you would be so kind. Demons are always so aggressive during games.”

He was certain they would have questions, but it was hard to see how much he wanted to tell them. “Are you always this trusting?”

SilverFlight Zazz

 

[Flutterby]

Ora took her time going back to the house, mainly because she was trying to catch sight of Desrick and Lohr. They didn't seem to be anywhere in sight, so she took it to mean they had stepped into the forest to talk. How cozy.

As she approached the house, she saw Crispin first, and a small smile spread across her cheeks.
The dwarf raised a hand, and called, "Crispin, I'm glad-"
She stopped talking abruptly when her eyes fell on Desrick and Lohr, not in the forest talking, along with another. A sumennan high-elf.
Ora visibly bristled, her tail lashing back and forth like a bothered cat.
"Well this is the last thing I thought I'd see." She took in the newcomer quickly, thankful he didn't look like he was currently a soldier. But he was armed, and carried very fine blades. Her skin crawled to think he was likely formerly military, or at the absolute least, trained in a similar way to those that served the House.
She slid her eyes to Desrick, and gave him quite the look. Not only had he clearly not had time to speak with Lohr, he had managed to pick up a probable enemy while he was at it.
"We've been apart for mere minutes and you've already found a bloody elf." Ora addressed Desrick tartly, and gave the stranger a glance as she said it. She looked at Lohr, then at Crispin.
Finally, she shook her head in frustration.
"I need something to eat." Ora muttered, and then turned to go inside.
"Pyrrhus is on his way, the forest woman, too," was the last thing she called, as she made a vague indication of the mess that was the elf's arm. Then she disappeared inside.
At least I won't have to look at that elf while I eat.

 

[Nevina]

When the fires were quenched and the smoke drifted lazily through the air, metal on metal no longer ringing, Song managed to find her way back to Falsedge. It wasn't hard; all she had to do was ask around for a scary warrior in a metal mask. "There you are! Now is hardly the time to be glowering at others, there is much to do." At that, the light fae flitted away.

Over the next few days, in an attempt to further avoid the post-war physical labor, Song found herself dancing from one person to the next, maintaining lines of communication and organization. It wasn't long before she had the broken town's layout mapped in her head, learning people's names along the way so as to call out their names with a wave and a smile in passing. She made jokes when she could, gave compliments out as freely as the air, and even shared a few Summenan songs along with the magnificent and glorious tale of her flight from Summena, with a few extra flourishes thrown in to further distract people from the recent tragedy. She avoided the funerals; drab things, those, and she had no desire to let her already disfigured face become puffy with tears. Watching the citizens cry and rebuild was heart wrenching enough.

The noble fae pestered Falsedge frequently, which resulted in Song either laughing merrily or storming off in a huff. Oddly enough, Song felt the warrior had mellowed out to some degree. It also didn't take long to learn that Falsedge was as artless as a dung beetle when it came to song and dance, rendering the warrior utterly useless in cultivating a festive show. Regardless, to everyone else, Song was as polite and welcoming as a proper hostess should be. She had of course stopped by the temple, thanking the priestesses for their aid, inquiring a little as to the beliefs of the people. It was strange to hear tales from the other side.

On the third day, Song spent more time trying to freshen her borrowed clothes than anything else; despite repeated washings, they were forever tainted by the smoke of the flames, a permanent reminder of what had transpired. By the time she was ready to leave the house, Song froze with caution, staring at yet another Summenan face from behind the safety of the window. She was half tempted to sneak out the back, but the urge for eavesdropping was much higher than survival, and so the former noble stayed, observing the small group with a frown.

"Ora!" Song gave a quick hiss when the other woman entered, "What is this?" A pale finger pointed quickly at the newcomer.

Flutterby

 

[Flutterby]

Ora hadn't noticed Song at first; she brushed hastily through the door and darted toward the kitchen to scrounge. She had found a loaf of Levinia's delicious bread and was reaching for a knife when she heard her name.
The dwarf turned and followed the point of the finger. She scowled heavy, and her tail started to lash again. "Skies only know," She growled, as she reached out again and took up the knife. She cut a generous bit off the loaf, and replaced it carefully.
"Desrick and I went to the funeral, had a talk in the woods after, and I left him to collect the others." Ora glanced out the window again, as she reached to help herself some cheese.
"By the peaks, I only left him for a few minutes. He was supposed to-" Ora did have the decency to stop herself there, and only gave a frustrated grunt. "Next thing I know he's managed to find that. Bloody hell." Ora took a bite of her food, and seemed to calm a little.
"Doesn't look like he's currently a soldier. But his weapons- they're too fine for someone who isn't very well-trained. I'd bet my mine that he can be connected to Evereach's military in some way, in the past at least. We'll just have to keep an eye on him." Ora took another bite, and chewed slowly. She had to turn her eyes away from the window. Instead, they found Song, who looked like she had groomed all morning.
"You should know, you've done good work the last few days. The villagers love you, and skies know I appreciated you keeping everything organized."
Nevina

 

[Zazz]

"...Best get going, then." Along the way to Desrick's house, Azaria slipped an apple, unnoticed by likely anyone but Falsedge, from an elven lady pushing a small cart through the muddy town.

At the large house, the halfling slipped in quietly through the door, taking up a space in the shadows of a corner. Though, from where she stood, she could see the horned dwarf woman and a peeking Ünentove looking much better than she had three days ago. A smirk befell the assassin's lips; trust a noble to find time to find luxury in the midst of chaos. Azaria toyed with a throwing knife, twirling the dull blade expertly between her fingers.

Just who was this mangled elf? His posture betrayed military training, as did his weapons, but his blades also told of age; he was no current soldier. The assassin studied him, as well as the others, as she would a deer in the woods. Silently, and intently.

 

[hwayi]

Han lightly squinted her eyes at the idea of someone who was not a divine deity crossing the half sun hills. Something absolutely no one should do. And then he dared to say that she was inexperient when it came to the ways of the world. Well, at least that was how she understood it. Was he perhaps even mocking her? She acknowledged that her head was not clear right now and again, shook away all the stupid, invalid thoughts pre-occupying her head. She was just in a bit of a sour mood. Then he started speaking about something that made more sense in her head. An ability to defend herself.


She cleared her throat lightly after he finished speaking. He still had not really informed her about what was going on. Was this a way to avoid questions? Han pondered if she should ask again, or would she be perceived as irritating baggage? Then again, she did not want to get to trouble being let to somewhere by this stranger. Someone who had just mentioned crossing half sun hills, again. She decided that she'd throw whatever first impression he had about her into the trash and start asking the real questions.


"Defending myself and protecting others? That's something I'm fairly familiar with," she tapped her own shoulder twice with her hand, before continuing her question. She was taking long and slow strides, still smoking her pipe. What an amusing sight this was. "However, sir, I still have my question unanswered." Han shot her eyebrow up, even if he didn't quite see it. These folks were truly odd.

SilverFlight

 

[SilverFlight]

Desrick scowled at the elf's jest. He was either unbelievably arrogant, or he had no idea what had happened to Delan, perhaps both.
"So you're no one of consequence, but you claim to have power over Evereach. You're a very contradictory liar."
At the very least Iolas (if that was his real name) did reveal a little of why he was here.
"Those who do not belong in Cyndara find the forest unwelcoming. I'm surprised you even survived. It speaks of strength." he said the last bit with a begrudging respect.
Iolas had mentioned a 'group', not an 'army' which made Desrick think of Ora and the others, not Lassard and his warband.
"What do you want with them?" Desrick asked, more than a little defensive in his tone.
No sooner had he asked this then Ora appeared, tail lashing. The hulking orc seemed to shrink under her harsh stare.
"D-don't say it like it's my fault." He muttered, a hand going sheepishly to the back of his thick neck.
Iolas spoke again and Desrick bristled.
"Are you always this conceited in the face of offered help?" He shot back irritably. "We don't trust you. That's why you're here and not wandering about the city."
Already however Desrick was thinking of uses for him. They needed to get into Sumenna. This elf looked like he knew people, or at least knew something of the world they were about to enter. But trust was certainly the issue, and Desrick wasn't willing to risk the safety of his people or his friends.
LazyDaze Zazz Flutterby

Pyrrhus smiled brightly at his new companion. "Oh excellent! I was hoping you'd say that. Because I have a feeling we're going to need all the help we can get."
At the sight of the smoke rising from her pipe he sniffed and said in a mock-offended tone: "Smoking is bad for the lungs."
He led her through the outskirts of the city and soon they came upon the house. At her next question Pyrrhus gave a coy chuckle.
"So you have. Well, the answer to that, is through this door." He pointed past the cluster of people in the yard, but paused as his eyes landed on someone he didn't recognize.
hwayi Yatasal

The centaur came up to them, lute still strapped his his shoulders and looked down with a frown upon Iolas.
"Normally I'd be delighted to lay eyes on such beauty...but your presence is...unexpected." He noticed the stranger's mangled arm and clicked his tongue critically.
"Pyrrhus. I need you to tend him, and, watch him. I must confer with the others on what to do with him before we start the real conversation." Desrick told him seriously.
"Done and done." Pyrrhus replied. "Oh, and I've brought you another recruit Desrick, I've a feeling this lovely young lady will be quite helpful."
Desrick looked on Han for the first time, recognizing her as someone from the temple.
"It seems Cyndabrynde is paying attention. We don't have time to get him appraised at the temple. Perhaps you can ask for the goddess' judgement here. I need to know if this elf means us harm."
LazyDaze Zazz hwayi

With that Desrick turned to enter the house, leaving Pyrrhus and Han outside to watch Iolas.
Pyrrhus didn't waste time, he curled his forelegs and knelt on the ground, so he could better reach his patient's injury. This put him a head and a bit shorter than Iolas.
He held his hand out expectantly.
"Roll your sleeve and let me see." His tone was firm but warm and calming. Iolas was no enemy now, but a patient. "Do you have any other injuries I should know about?"
LazyDaze

Desrick watched with Ora from the window. "What do you make of him?" He asked the room.
Flutterby Nevina Zazz

 

[LazyDaze]

Iolas could tell his dark joke was well received. After so long his ability to vex those around him had not changed, unfortunately. It was still better than being a mindless super soldier who was only alive to kill and destroy. As he stood there, calmly, and a bit helpless, he let Desrick speak and sort through his own thoughts uninterrupted unless asked a direct question that he could not simply respond to with his trademarked saccharine smile. He was enjoying the mental tug O war. Each levying how much information to give the other, although, Iolas was certain he would end up on the losing end eventually; however, you never want to begin a conversation with, I used to slaughter your people for a living. In fact, it was better if you could avoid that all together.

Iolas paused for awhile to understand his own thoughts when asked what he wished to do with the Sumennans he had been tracking. Iolas believing it to be the same people who raided Delan. He usually knew what he wanted when he found them, and he never had to put it into words. "I want to save them. They truly believe what they are doing is right. Not just them, everyone in the world is acting on their own beliefs without trying to understand those around them. I wish to stop them, but alas there is only one thing that I do well," Iolas said the last part glancing at his swords with sad smile. He then looked back toward Desrick with a smile that betrayed his next words. "If I cannot save them...I will kill them so that they may not harm ever again."
SilverFlight

That was when Ora Flutterby joined the conversation, albeit briefly. She seemed as if she was in a rush, but he could tell she was not very fond of him at the very least. Due to the speed at which she went he could not tell if she was Cyndaran or Sumennan. He gave her a smile and nearly a wave, if not only to incur her wrath. It was almost a defense mechanism against her prying eyes since he did not want to let on more than he wanted to. She mentioned the names of others who were on their way to this very location which made Iolas a bit uncomfortable. They might be family, friends, acquaintances, but to Iolas they might as well been reinforcements to take him down swiftly; however, Desrick, who appeared to be the center of all of this, did not give off a bloodthirsty vibe which put his mind at ease. However, he did seem perturbed.

Desrick continued after she had left, and Iolas was oddly elated to hear that he was not trusted. He wanted everyone to understand each other, but he did not want everyone to be stupid. Experience taught him that it was always the nice ones that got the short end of the stick. What came out as conceited, was actually advice and concern on Iolas's part. He was never good at expressing himself properly; sometimes purposely being misleading. "Ah, you know us elves, always pampered and demanding." He said smoothly obviously playing to the stereotype that no longer applied to him. Iolas did not care for many things, but these ill timed, light hearted jabs aimed at Desrick were a sign that Iolas was at the very least comfortable with his new acquaintances. After all his years of living he could more or less tell good apples from bad ones, but it was no guarantee that they would let him live, so he still had to be on high alert.
SilverFlight

When Pyrrhus arrived, Iolas was amazed at his stature. It was not often he had to look up at someone, but in Cyndara this was often the case. He gave a slight bow in response to his compliment, and once again he was amazed at how different Cyndarans were in comparison to the stories told in Summena. Iolas already knew this, but it never ceased to amaze him. At his behest Iolas slowly rolled up his sleeve, revealing the injury in its totality. It's actual severity surprising Iolas himself. "The only injuries I have besides this are injuries of the heart." Iolas said truthfully, but jokingly. For a moment he decided to let his guard down for only a moment to express his honest feelings about the whole matter. Perhaps it was the centaur's peaceful aura, but for a moment he just wanted to lay down his swords and finally rest.

"I apologize for the trouble my people have caused you..." Since Pyrrhus and Han were the only other people present, at least the only people Iolas could see, it is safe to assume he was speaking to them; however, they were merely the outlet as he spoke to Cyndara, as well as Cyndabrynde. He looked toward the door once again wondering about the real conversation to soon take place.

hwayi SilverFlight

 

[SilverFlight]

Pyrrhus hissed in empathy at the sight of the full extent of the wound. "How this must have been hurting you..."
His next words took the centaur aback, and he looked up into the elf's green eyes, as if trying to discern more. At the same time Pyrrhus seemed to become a little more serious and a look of quiet understanding crossed his face.
"Ah, wounded hearts are...much harder to heal," he said quietly. "Beyond my simple skill I'm afraid...but for what its worth...you're not alone in knowing that pain."
Pyrrhus began to focus, pulling the magic under his will. To help, he started to hum a simple tune. An old song that belonged to his clan. As he moved through the notes he wove the magic into Iolas' wound, knitting flesh and healing skin. Iolas' words had earned the centaur's compassion and he poured over every detail until the wound was nothing but a neat scar.
Suddenly the fatigue that had been dogging him these past three days seemed to catch up to him and it showed upon his angular face and in his gentle blue eyes.
"There now. All set for the appraisal." Pyrrhus tried to hide his exhaustion behind a cheerful smile. He rose slowly and shakily to his hooves once more.

"We cannot be held accountable for all the actions of our people." Pyrrhus told him in a gentle tone. "Just the same, we cannot hold an entire people accountable for the actions of a few."
LazyDaze


"He still believes you are here to find weaknesses in Cyndaran defenses. He's apparently here to stop you. If he was with Lassard I doubt he'd want that, and he'd know by now that you have...changed your minds."
Desrick added, taking the fact into consideration as well.
Zazz Flutterby Nevina

((Mini post))

 

[Flutterby]

Ora looked up briefly when Desrick entered, pursing her lips slightly. She took a slow drink of water, as she watched their healer begin his work, and waited for Desrick to speak first.

"He can believe whatever he wants, I won't tell him otherwise." She snapped softly, watching the elf and Pyrrhus interact. "If he was following orders from Lassard.. He would have been told to look for us specifically. At the risk of sounding self-important, I think a man from Lassard would have recognized me instantly, considering my role in all this... But I don't think he did."

She made a vague gesture to the elf, and added, "He is connected to Evereach, somehow. Those weapons are too well-made for a layman. He's probably military-trained, even if he's no longer serving the House. He's dangerous to have around, but.. who knows, maybe he'll be useful. Can't exactly leave him here."
The dwarf frowned, and then looked over at Azaria, who she had just barely seen slip inside.
"What do you think? How familiar are you with Sumennans?" Ora's dark eyes studied her openly- she didn't try to hide that her curiosity had spiked since seeing her speaking so intently with Falsedge.
SilverFlight Zazz

 

[hwayi]

All the help they could get? What on Earth was he planning? Now her curiosity was burning, boiling hot and spilling over. She brought her brows closer, knitting them together, putting on that 'thinking' face. She scratched her temples before taking another quick breath in. Han heard him mumble something about smoking being bad for one's lungs. Yeah, whatever. These babies were healing herbs anyway. She ignored that sentence and carried on with her smoking. He still left her with so many questions, it started to piss her off. "Well, they say that patience is a virtue..." she said mostly to convince herself from asking more questions. Eventually, it would all make sense to her and all the pieces would fit the rather empty puzzle she had right now.


After leading her to a somewhat sketchy place, the centaur pointed at a door and told her that all the questions she had, had the answers lying behind that door. Han hated being so confused, in such vulnerable position. She hated being in a disadvantage. Although she believed that Pyrrhus wasn't here to stir something evil up, the half sun hills thing was bothering her. How could they still attempt to cross them after witnessing such punishment being laid over the people? Both sides suffered much, and it had been fairly peaceful when they were segregated. Han was a rather conservative lady. Any type of change put her off and made her scowl.


She was recognized by one of the fellows after Pyrrhus introduced her. He was not shy to mention the Great Lady's name as he saw Han. The world appraisal made her choke on her own spit, and she quickly removed the pipe from her mouth. She extinguished whatever was inside, and let out a disapproving "Tch." How was she supposed to perform anything like that outside of a temple, let alone without any other temple maidens? Besides, she was not one of the accepted maidens anymore. She had been kicked out years ago!


She pointed at the light elf with her pipe, as if to question if he was the one that was in the need of an appraisal. She analyzed him in her head, wondering if he was truly worth her time. Her eyes scanned him, and pinned the weapons he was carrying. He didn't seem to be just any elf. He started apologizing, but Han quickly dismissed that and jumped into the important questions. "Have you ever seen anyone perform an appraisal alone? You wouldn't get any exact results like that," she addressed everyone in the room. Han left out the 'I am no longer part of the temple' and 'It's dangerous' parts from her words. It was something they needn't know. Although her words weren't the nicest, her voice was still polite and formal. Her voice would always treat the scum of this land equal to herself. Cyndabrynde was the goddess of forgiveness and kindness after all. Han would have to seal her much more peppery personality traits away if she still wanted to be accepted in some forms by the divine.


Seeing how everyone seemed to agree on the fact that the elf was suspicious and needed the judgment, Han lightly shook her head and crossed her arms over her chest. She couldn't believe that this was happening. This was unheard of, and everything seemed to move way too fast for the good of the people and the nations. "I'll do it if I get something in return. I want answers to what you're about to do, and how you're going to cross the forbidden. Last time you meddled with that, you got quite the punishment on yourselves." Han strictly believed that it was all just a slam on the face by the gods. The battles and all the losses of innocent people. She tapped her arm a few times with her fingers, slightly tilting her head to the side to reveal her curiousness about the ordeal. This better be good, or she would start preaching about how there were rules for a reason.

SilverFlight LazyDaze

 

[Zazz]

Azaria, at being spoken to, stepped forward into the light and continued to twirl her blade between her fingers. "Most familiar, unfortunately." She met Ora's gaze with sharp, light eyes of her own. Something about the woman intrigued the halfling elf. Perhaps the way she commanded respect from the room, or perhaps it was the way the ring on her horn glinted in Cyndara's little light. Or, perhaps, it might have been the inkling of a memory of a story about a disowned dwarven royal.

"I think that your words are true. He is of Everreach, clearly. But I do not think he works for them any longer. Also, Pyrrhus, your taste is questionable as always."

 

[Mythee]

Falsedge's walk came to a halt at the sound of her moniker. She turned around to see Oralia on her way. The half-dwarf had been busy tying up diplomatic strings, not too frequent of a sight in the past three days. Events had shaped her- whether it was by her body language or the way she looked at people, it was clear to Falsedge that Oralia's character had grown to fit these boots she was being made to fill. Her charisma was beginning to catch up to the mettle she'd shown.
"Shit, news already? So, Desrick and Lohr's break-up is finally official. Been dreading this. They were my favorite couple." She made those insincere quips as the dwarf passed her by, waving off her own joke with wry metallic laughter. She had noticed the rift that had seemingly grown between the orc and drow, who had previously entertained much closer relations. The teenage Naga's inexplicable nervous energy around either of the two also tipped her off that something had happened between them. Lohr... looked at Desrick a lot, and it did leave one to wonder.

Flutterby

---

To Valac, the fascination that Trileon exhibited toward him as she eyed his tail was instead understood as the concerned check-over by an individual looking for his injuries. Her cheerful reaction and the looks of her smiling face put wind in his sails, as they surely meant she was expecting a great recovery. "Wow, I... I can't thank you and Pyrrhus enough! Here I thought I'd have to look like a cart full of hedgehogs had flipped onto me, until my next molt anyway." He gave a short, shy, laugh.
"I will, for sure." Valac nodded to her offer- he made a brief eye contact, realizing she was about to go.
"Miss Trileon, wait- I've kind of been in my shell these past few days, so I didn't get to introduce myself properly. Sorry, I really should have sooner. I'm Valac of Greenhaven- merchant, weaver, and enchanter. So um, if ever you have need of my services... I really owe you one."

Sometime after Pyrrhus had artfully played a beautiful song on his instrument- though a bit sadder than Valac preferred, because his heartstrings were getting strained from strong, recent tugging- Oralia's voice called for him from over- well, technically under, the heads in the crowd. Was it just him, or was he in high demand today? Oh, wait, it was for everyone.
"Um- on our way!" He called back, stashing the poultice jar in his sash before coming over.

mothspit
--

As she approached the rest of the group gathered by the house, Fals' attention fell onto the typical gorgeous personage of an Evereach elf. His question about the Cyndaran's trusting nature was... reminescent of her own initial reaction to their culture.
"Well, well, well." What do we have here?
As Fals stepped into the room, she noticed Azaria's dagger twirling immediately with the kind of sixth sense you annoyingly can't turn off even when you're well aware it's just some pissant's quirk to finger their weapons constantly. It was unnerving, especially given Fals' past line of work, and in the same room as so many... key players. She was keen to keep their skulls blade-free.
"Hey. Stoppit." She half-grumbled, before shooting a glance at Song. The light fae had seemed to be flourishing here- glamorous, engaged with the community, and more free than ever without her past obligations. By the way she had reacted to the high-elf's presence, she was growing defensive of her life here.
Like Oralia, it didn't take long for Falsedge to figure out that the man had received military training. But something familiar about him scratched the surface of her memories of an incident that had marked her first few years of service in the ranks. If this was the guy, then his appearance had been virtually unchanged all these years, whereas Falsedge would be difficult to recognize- just another face from among the many young shaksran warriors raised in the Gustfang band to serve Evereach, now much older-looking, and with half of her face covered to boot.
Hmm. He did call himself Iolas. But from what she had heard, that once promising man had undergone some form of psychotic break and had turned into nothing more than yet another rampaging danger of the wild, a spooky story for the campfire. Was he simply her predecessor in defection, or a loose cannon waiting to be set off in their midst?
She munched on her own food while Ora and Desrick discussed him, leaning on the wall next to Azaria. She could have appreciated the flavor more if the assassin by her side was less of a fidget case. She was half-set on bending that dagger into a knot if its edge kept flashing.
Falsedge deigned it the right time to measure up this high-elf, and whether or not this and that Iolas were related.
"Yeah, I'll get back to you on that." She commented simply on the question before stepping out to watch, with fascination, the end of some exotic healing magic by Pyrrhus. It also appeared that the high-elf had a sense of humor of his own.

"You're a funny man, Iolas. Too funny, I've heard." She spoke with a twinge of amusement, narrowing her eyes in that knowing way one does when speaking to a suspect so that they know they're in trouble. "How long since you've... recovered?" The shaksran tapped her head a few times with a finger as she said this, making clear that it was about his mental state.

LazyDaze Zazz SilverFlight Flutterby

 

[LazyDaze]

Iolas soaked in the words that completely contrasted the appearance of a hardened warrior. For a brief moment Iolas let his mind wander to a future that did not exist. He wondered why the entirety of the world could not be like this. Here he was, a Sumennan high elf allowing a centaur who did not appear to be withholding crippling grudges, heal him. In the midst of this act, understanding took precedent, and it was simply another creature helping another in need. He found comfort in his words. Iolas knew he was not the only one that carried burdens, and pain; however, it felt selfishly reassuring to verbally confirm that he was not the only one with his share of problems. Iolas then turned his attention to his arm that was being mended before his eyes. Healing magic was not something high on the list of things to teach Sumennans let alone Evereach soldiers, so it was always an event to see it first hand.

When Pyrrhus was done he heard him mention the word "appraisal". This was the second time he had heard the term, but he was not sure exactly what they meant by it although he could make some near guesses seeing that Desrick spoke of judgment from a goddess who was no doubt Cyndabrynde. Since it was he that was being appraised, it was he that would be judged. Han offered a bit more info as he smiled through her ironically calm mini rant. Never one to pass the opportunity to stir up trouble, Iolas raised his good hand and gave a cheerful smile as he spoke. "Please do your best to appraise me. I am certain I am worth something." Leave it to Iolas to purposely mix the meanings of spiritual appraisal and merchant appraisal. In all actuality, Iolas was trying to hide the fact that he was not fond of the idea of being judged. In fact, it was down right unnerving. His sins ran deep, and he was not sure if he had done enough to earn any favor from either deity. Choosing to place his mind in more pleasant pastures, he slowly moved his "new" arm as if to test it out. He had nearly forgotten the wonders of healing magic. The last time he had experienced it was with his adoptive father. "It would appear I am now well armed. Thank you I am in your debt" The pun, sadly, was fully intended. Iolas took note of the exhaustion the centaur did his best to hide and gave a slight nod in order to thank him once again. He looked up at the sky as he pondered Pyrrhus’s words of wisdom. Iolas could not save everyone; however, it was the hope that he could which kept him going.
SilverFlight hwayi

Iolas’s thoughts were soon interrupted by another who had apparently arrived at the house. At this point he was feeling like bad luck. They might seriously dismember me and feed me to the plants. Circle of life I suppose. He took note of her stature, her voice (to confirm it was indeed a her), and her aura of confidence in approaching him. He was not surprised his name spread around the people in the area since he had just told them, but the way she spoke had a hint of comfortability. It was as if she knew him. As she moved closer she did not seem to be Cyndaran. Human? He had to search the caverns of his mind to recall a battle he had against a Sumennan race in a remote village in Sumenna, Shaksran?

“On the contrary, no one ever laughs at my jokes here, but you know being unappreciated in your own time is the only way to make history, or so I have heard from a deceased soul.” The joke here being that the dead guy never amounted to anything despite being appreciated while he was alive leaving him oddly unsatisfied.

It did not take long for Iolas to realize Falsedge was referring to another injury, and not his most recent handicap when asked about his recovery. Moreover, he was not very fond of the way she looked at him, as if she was peering into his mind and soul. Nevertheless, he did not panic. Nothing was confirmed and so far everything was conjecture, so he did what he always did, play dumb. “Recovery,” he started inquisitively as if he was hopelessly perplexed. “Ohhhh, do you mean the appraisal? Is mental instability an effect of judgement? Unfortunately, it has not yet gone underway…something about payment and blood sacrifice. I am actually quite nervous since it is well…my first time…” Iolas, fully aware of the double entendre, put both his hands over his face as if he was hopelessly blushing. After just a brief moment he shot a glare toward Falsedge from in between his fingers as if to say, Off limits, only to soften his expression just as quickly as it had came. Most would miss the exchange, but he was purposely communicating this way. He did not particularly like Falsedge. Perhaps it was because she reminded him of himself in many ways, but he had to acknowledge her presence among the Cyndarans as a good sign. It would seem Iolas had stumbled upon a raucous ragtag group of misfits.
Mythee

 

[Flutterby]

Ora gave a quick back-and-forth between Falsedge and Azaria, ending on Falsedge with a raised eyebrow. It was a conversation for another time, though, when they weren't pressed for time to move, and alliances were more.. settled.
Her eyes moved back to Azaria, as she responded. Ora gave a slow, single nod. Something about the was Azaria looked at her made her uneasy. It was more knowing than she liked. The dwarf glanced at Falsedge again, as she stepped outside, and Ora had a thought.
If Azaria was familiar with Sumennans, and familiar with Falsedge in particular, their connection was probably professional. And they weren't particularly cozy.. so they had been on opposite sides.
Ora felt a twinge of discomfort. She had kept her story pretty low-profile, mentioning the bigger details of her past only vaguely and only to a few. If Falsedge had connected any dots, she had kept quiet about it, but Ora couldn't count on the same courtesy from a stranger.
"Quite," She agreed, "But even if he isn't with them.. there's no way to know that he won't go running to them and spill everything he hears. We can't afford that." Ora looked up at Desrick with a sigh. If they were going to be successful in an excursion into Sumenna, as they had talked about, secrecy could be their only advantage. "I hope you can control him, if you're set on hauling him along."
Zazz SilverFlight

 

[SilverFlight]

"'Something in return'?" Pyrrhus repeated, the surprise clear on his face. "I've never known a priestess to bargain for her duties...I hope I wasn't wrong about you..." He seemed genuinely dismayed. "But there's no need to set terms, I had brought you here for answers, and answers you shall get, appraisal or no."
hwayi

By that time Falsedge had come out to see the high elf for herself. Her questions seemed to reach for something deeper than their superficial meaning, but the subtext went over Pyrrhus' head.
"Handsome and a wit! Aren't we lucky."
At Iolas' less than subtle double-entendre Pyrrhus had to put a hand to his mouth. By some miracle, he kept his peace.
The centaur shifted slightly as he caught sight of a figure, making her slow, graceful way up the stone path to the house. She was cloaked, but when the cowl was drawn back Pyrrhus made an audible gasp.
"Head priestess!"
The dark-skinned wood elf came to a halt before the small group standing outside the house. Her irises were silver rings looping the black of her pupils. She was aged and thin but her bearing spoke of a patient power that required respect.
"I have spoken to our great mother, and she has foreseen what you will do. There are members of your band that you do not quite trust..."
Yatasal LazyDaze hwayi Mythee

Desrick nodded, agreeing with everything that Ora had said. "I'm worried about what he will do if we don't bring him...He's dangerous. I would rather keep him close than leave him here...and, if he can help us..." Suddenly Desrick straightened. "The head priestess is here."
He was out the door in the next moment, striding across the front yard. Crispin came inside as his brother left, shirt and hair still filled with sawdust from his work on the new beams.
"Quite the gathering this has turned into eh? The priestesses don't really make house calls."
Flutterby Nevina Zazz

Desrick reached Iolas, Fals, Pyrrhus, Han and Quinn just as the priestess stepped forward, bringing her hands up and gently placing them over Iolas' white-gold hair.
"The goddess has sensed in you much turmoil...much regret. But also hope. Desire for change, for peace. You have her blessing."
Desrick's jaw nearly dropped and Pyrrhus tried his best not to look smug.
The priestess turned to Quinn next, performing the same small ritual for her. "In you, she senses indecision...but a good heart, and a desire to help those you have met here. You have her blessing also."
She withdrew slowly, but not before turning to Han, her gentle gaze warm, maternal, yet with a hint of sadness. "My child. Your path has not been easy, and it will continue this way. You have a strength many will fear...but the bonds you make will be what help you form it. Know that whatever you choose, you are beginning your journey in Cyndabrynde's celestial light."
There was a long, drawn out silence as the priestess stepped back, serene smile still in place.
"Well." Desrick said finally, "I guess that settles it." He regarded Iolas and Quinn with a hint of skepticism, but he wasn't about to go against the word of a priestess.
"Follow me."
Yatasal LazyDaze hwayi Mythee

The main room of the house was large, enough to fit twenty comfortably, or, close to fifteen and one centaur. Pyrrhus slipped through the door last, seemingly having the experience to do so somewhat gracefully. He chose a spot up against one wall and lay beside a plush couch on the floor, one arm on the arm rest.
There was a large table in the center of the room, with chairs if people wished to sit. Desrick stood, heading the table and surveying the group gathered.

"Most of you know why I called you here," he began in his gruff baritone. "For those of you who weren't called...Delan was attacked by forces from Evereach. They wanted Delan's crystal. The light-giving gem at the heart of the city, that holds a deep magic. They did not get this crystal...but not a hundred marks' journey from Delan, there was a second attack. The settlement of beastmen fell. Evereach now has a crystal, and they are making their way back to their home as fast as they can."
He paused and glanced about the room, letting them process his words. He watched the reactions of Quinn, Azaria and Iolas carefully, for they still didn't have his full trust.
"There was also a small group of sumennans, sent to uncover tactical weaknesses in Cyndara's forces. The real hope was however, that this party would be killed by Cyndaran hands, and used to galvanize support for the attack back in Sumenna. They assumed Cyndarans were bloodthirsty monsters...a large mistake on their part. We have allies now. Allies that can help us enter Sumenna...and try to recover what was stolen, and learn the extent of Evereach's plan."
He took a breath and let a new silence creep over them. "If...anyone has anything to contribute, we should hear it now."
Yatasal LazyDaze hwayi Mythee Flutterby Nevina Zazz mothspit

 

[mothspit]

To Valac, the fascination that Trileon exhibited toward him as she eyed his tail was instead understood as the concerned check-over by an individual looking for his injuries. Her cheerful reaction and the looks of her smiling face put wind in his sails, as they surely meant she was expecting a great recovery. "Wow, I... I can't thank you and Pyrrhus enough! Here I thought I'd have to look like a cart full of hedgehogs had flipped onto me, until my next molt anyway." He gave a short, shy, laugh.
"I will, for sure." Valac nodded to her offer- he made a brief eye contact, realizing she was about to go.
"Miss Trileon, wait- I've kind of been in my shell these past few days, so I didn't get to introduce myself properly. Sorry, I really should have sooner. I'm Valac of Greenhaven- merchant, weaver, and enchanter. So um, if ever you have need of my services... I really owe you one."

Sometime after Pyrrhus had artfully played a beautiful song on his instrument- though a bit sadder than Valac preferred, because his heartstrings were getting strained from strong, recent tugging- Oralia's voice called for him from over- well, technically under, the heads in the crowd. Was it just him, or was he in high demand today? Oh, wait, it was for everyone.
"Um- on our way!" He called back, stashing the poultice jar in his sash before coming over.

Trileon smiled. Helping others, feeling their gratitude, and knowing they'll be okay-- It brought her an indescribable happiness. This is why she chooses to do what she does.

"A pleasure, Valac of Greenhaven." She said with a small bow, hand pressed to her chest, "Trileon Sionis of.. er.. the Ncend Forest, I suppose."

The dwarf Trileon saw earlier came over to them, indicating it was time for some meeting. She had the sinking feeling she knew what it was about-- Three days of peace felt like it was too good to last. Something must have happened. Though, she supposed she knew it would be time to come back to this eventually. After that level of death and destruction, they wouldn't give up so quickly. They'd be back.

"..Well, back into the fray." She said quietly, making her way over to the rest of the group.

--

The main room of the house was large, enough to fit twenty comfortably, or, close to fifteen and one centaur. Pyrrhus slipped through the door last, seemingly having the experience to do so somewhat gracefully. He chose a spot up against one wall and lay beside a plush couch on the floor, one arm on the arm rest.
There was a large table in the center of the room, with chairs if people wished to sit. Desrick stood, heading the table and surveying the group gathered.

"Most of you know why I called you here," he began in his gruff baritone. "For those of you who weren't called...Delan was attacked by forces from Evereach. They wanted Delan's crystal. The light-giving gem at the heart of the city, that holds a deep magic. They did not get this crystal...but not a hundred marks' journey from Delan, there was a second attack. The settlement of beastmen fell. Evereach now has a crystal, and they are making their way back to their home as fast as they can."
He paused and glanced about the room, letting them process his words. He watched the reactions of Quinn, Azaria and Iolas carefully, for they still didn't have his full trust.
"There was also a small group of sumennans, sent to uncover tactical weaknesses in Cyndara's forces. The real hope was however, that this party would be killed by Cyndaran hands, and used to galvanize support for the attack back in Sumenna. They assumed Cyndarans were bloodthirsty monsters...a large mistake on their part. We have allies now. Allies that can help us enter Sumenna...and try to recover what was stolen, and learn the extent of Evereach's plan."
He took a breath and let a new silence creep over them. "If...anyone has anything to contribute, we should hear it now."
Yatasal LazyDaze hwayi Mythee Flutterby Nevina Zazz mothspit

Trileon's heart sank at the Orc's words. Though she figured something else must have occurred, she wasn't expecting that. Beastmen not that far from here? Her childhood tribe was closer to the heart of the forest, but how far away was that from Delan? She wasn't sure-- Most of her life was spent on the forest's outskirts, away from regular civilization. It was very much possible that they moved locations after she left them. It was a possibility that, for her sanity, she didn't want to entertain. She was never close with any of them growing up, but no matter how much cruelty she suffered from their hands, death was the last thing she wished upon them.

"..There are.. no survivors?" She whispered in disbelief, eyes widened with a faint sense of fear.

Then the issue of infiltrating Sumenna. Most of them standing in the room could pass off as native Sumennans, but blue and green skin was definitely a dead giveaway. ..Speaking of, someone new had recently joined the group. How many elves were in Cyndara? She figured most of them retreated during the battle for Delan.. How strange. Though, it didn't look like he was an enemy. At least, not for now.

Regardless, sneaking into Sumenna on a mission to retrieve the crystal.. In a way, the thought was exciting, and yet equally terrifying. A place where everyone looked at anyone even slightly different from them as imperfect? And we're going there armed to the teeth? With a centaur and people with horns? For a brief moment, Trileon thought about bowing out. After all, her work was done-- The injured were healed, and she could stay behind to make sure everyone made a full recovering, and yet.. the idea felt shameful. Sure, they were safe for now, but how long would that last before Everreach, emboldened by their recent victory, would come back? They would be helpless, and so would she. This looked like their only option. Rescuing Cyndara.. Myst Queen, watch over me.

She raised a hand shyly to address the group and it's leader, "..My name is Trileon. If I may, I don't think you and I will be able to, um, sneak past the border," She said to Desrick, gesturing between the two of them, and anyone else that didn't fit the Sumennan standard. "Us with our.. 'abnormal..' looks. We would need some sort of disguise."

 

[Zazz]

Azaria set her knife away and went to sit by the centaur. Lazing an arm over the armrest, she gently ran her fingers through Pyrrhus's soft fur, watching the proceedings. She had not been "appraised" like the others, and had exactly zero intention to be.

Lohrithe stood behind Iolas, the high elf stranger, but was always attentive to Desrick more than anything. He was, indeed, distracted by his own thoughts. Desrick had not so much as looked his way since entering the house. Was the orc upset with him? Or was it simply the current situation keeping him occupied? Lohrithe listened to Desrick's plan, his brows coming together in a frown. He felt bad, leaving Delan before it was rebuilt, but alas, he would follow Desrick to the end of the land.

"Perhaps... we might send word to my people? I have not been home for some time." Lohrithe knew that his father, at least, would worry about him. "Perhaps my people can start moving towards helping the rest of Cyndara," he added grimly; the drow did not take action lightly, and often sat on decisions for quite some time.

Azaria continued to keep her gaze on Ora while she listened. They were fools to think they could get into Everreach so easily. "Trileon is right. There is no way you are going to look remotely Sumennan with blue skin, giant tusks on a hunk of green, a giant snake for a body, and a horse butt. No offense," she added to Pyrrhus. "Not to mention, drow eyes. You'll all be either imprisoned, or diced up into peasant stew upon sight."

 

[hwayi]

She got called out by Pyrrhus for bargaining and trying to set terms to get the answers she wanted. He revealed that she would get them even if the appraisal happened or not. He took a jab at her priesthood, and she was tempted to correct him. She was once somebody, but now she was close to nothing.
Instead, she sealed her lips and decided that she'd reveal whatever was needed when it was needed. Giving out weaknesses like that was bad for Han. She still had distrust towards these people. Very observant people would see from her stance only how she still felt like walls around herself were important. She could almost smell how she was not the only one with these thoughts.

And all that was swept away when someone yelped 'Head priestess'. All those defenses dropped as Han turned around in shock. She was both delighted and both terrified. Head priestess was the last and first person she would want to see right now. It was like a mother meeting with her estranged children.
She was humbled by her presence, and immediately lowered her head to show her respect. Han followed as she immediately started with the appraisals. She felt a tiny twang in her soul when people who were supposed to be enemies got appraised. As if someone just wasted their precious resources on something worthless. Shaking those thoughts once again, she repeated in her head how those thoughts did not belong to herself. It was always the damned, the ones to blame.


When it was her turn, she didn't feel that nervous anymore. Han knew her own intentions very well, so Cyndabrynde's word wouldn't shock her that much, would it? She relaxed as the familiar and aged hands were placed on her. Han revealed her eyes to the priestess, looking up like a child waiting for punishment. She felt her heart sink the moment she saw the hint of sadness. What was it? What went wrong this time? What tragedy awaited her?

"My child. Your path has not been easy, and it will continue this way. You have a strength many will fear...but the bonds you make will be what help you form it. Know that whatever you choose, you are beginning your journey in Cyndabrynde's celestial light."

Those words repeated in her head in a vicious cycle. The path will continue to be hard? Han almost audibly sighed at that. Even Cyndabrynde saw nothing but turmoil. Well, at least it was turmoil blessed by the great lady. The younger woman hid her eyes once again underneath the hat as she chewed on what she just got to know. Nothing new, really.

She dragged herself towards the larger room. She was here just to find out how they were going to disgrace the whole 'Do not cross half sun hills' rule. At this point, Han had given up. Even the head priestess seemed to give her blessings. And head priestess was the main channel between this world and Cyndabrynde. Han was not going to go against Cyndabrynde's wish.

She leaned against a wall, in a darker corner. She felt very comfortable in the cool shadows. It was her home, where she belonged when there was no other place to go. Han listened to the information, feeling the anger build up as she heard of another attack.
"Shameless," she muttered under her breath before exhaling slowly. All this pent-up anger should leave her body. It was harming. Now she had to focus on saving whatever there was to save anymore. She couldn't even bear to think of all the dead children. All the innocent souls. All for some crystal.

 

[SilverFlight]

Pyrrhus felt Azaria's gentle touch on his equine shoulder and his skin twitched involuntarily under her fingers. Pyrrhus leaned onto the arm rest and put his head against her shoulder. He was tired, and the presence of a good friend was comforting.
Idly he began playing with the sandalwood toggles on his leather harness and, noting one was missing, took out a small stick of the wood from a pouch he carried, as well as a small knife and began carving a replacement. The sweet smell of the wood rose up to surround him anew, and some would realize that he always did smell faintly of it.
"None taken." He said happily, never having seen a horse before.
Zazz

He noted Han's irritation and gave her a chagrined look. "Now you know. I hope you're not too angry with us...I don't think Evereach will stop unless we do something about it...the only way we'll uncover their plans is to go and find out ourselves."
hwayi

 

[Flutterby]

Mostly mollified, Ora simply nodded as she finished off her food. As long as everyone was in agreement of the risks, she couldn't complain too much. She was going to swallow and say something, when Desrick's spine snapped to attention and he announced the presence of the head priestess. The last of her bite got stuck in her throat, and she had to take a long drink of water.
The dwarf turned pink and gave Crispin a worried smile, and murmured, "I suppose a great many things are changing." She ducked her head, and scooted past him to follow Desrick. It was easier to breath outside, for the moment.
Ora watched silently, from slightly behind Desrick, as the priestess appraised the three. Her stomach knotted up, and her tail went back to its lashing. In that moment, she understood a small part of the anguish that the last round of appraisals had caused for some. We cannot trust them. We cannot, must not.
But the priestess spoke for the goddess.
Ora bit her tongue, and lowered her eyes. She lingered for a few moments, watching the priestess for a moment before she followed. Had the goddess known, days ago, when she stepped into the temple, what she would become here? Was the goddess so great, to have seen that change on the horizon?
Ora found she was too afraid to even ask. As she turned to follow Desrick inside, words from before played in her head. Be as honest with your own heart as you are with others, and you may find more peace.

Back inside, Ora chose a spot at the table, sitting near Desrick's right side. She stared at the tabletop, tapping one finger lightly on the surface as he spoke. She was too absorbed in her own thoughts to watch the new comers closely, and was silent for many moments after he finished. She wanted to see what others had to say, before putting herself forward.
"At this point, it's not a question of if we cross into Sumenna. It's how." There was a pause, when she looked at Song, then Falsedge, then Azaria. Her eyes found that the halfling was already looking at her, but she didn't drop her eyes; she held Azaria's gaze for a moment longer before moving on. "If any of the other Sumennans have a suggestion, I would be all ears." She glanced at Iolas, but didn't seem to actually include him in the statement. "Your connections are likely more powerful than mine. But if not.. I may have a way to get us as far as Brynson."
Yatasal LazyDaze hwayi Mythee SilverFlight Nevina Zazz mothspit

 

[Yatasal]

"In you, she senses indecision...but a good heart, and a desire to help those you have met here. You have her blessing also."

Quinn blinked, lost in thought as she walked alongside Pyrrhus. They had stopped, and Quinn hadn't even noticed until an elderly woman was touching her forehead. Quinn froze as a strange feeling fell over her. The woman lifted her hand and moved to Han, performing the same ritual for her. Indecision? What indecisiveness? Whose blessing did I just receive? Oh... Cyndabrynde. Their goddess. How I miss the sun...

Quinn followed the others inside. Her head spun with more questions, but she quieted them as she stood quietly near the door. Everyone was taller than her in here, and so Quinn hoped it would mean that sneaking out would be much easier. Probably--her size had always come in handy when it came to stealth.

"Most of you know why I called you here," he began in his gruff baritone. "For those of you who weren't called...Delan was attacked by forces from Evereach. They wanted Delan's crystal. The light-giving gem at the heart of the city, that holds a deep magic. They did not get this crystal...but not a hundred marks' journey from Delan, there was a second attack. The settlement of beastmen fell. Evereach now has a crystal, and they are making their way back to their home as fast as they can. There was also a small group of sumennans, sent to uncover tactical weaknesses in Cyndara's forces. The real hope was however, that this party would be killed by Cyndaran hands, and used to galvanize support for the attack back in Sumenna. They assumed Cyndarans were bloodthirsty monsters...a large mistake on their part. We have allies now. Allies that can help us enter Sumenna...and try to recover what was stolen, and learn the extent of Evereach's plan."
He took a breath and let a new silence creep over them. "If...anyone has anything to contribute, we should hear it now."

Quinn felt a sudden excitement whip through her, though she kept her face placid and intent on listening. Another crystal? No wonder Lassard left in a hurry... He knew he only needed one, and to not expend any troops or Summenan lives to get it? Well well well. Quinn blinked, and cocked her head at the "small group of Summenans". She hadn't heard of any such thing... Or that Summena would use such tactics to gain support for an attack or a war. But when she thought about it more, it seemed exactly like something Evereach would do. A few lives were nothing when it came to conquest.
Allies... Of which they believed her to be. She highly doubted that not questioning her would continue much longer. And there was no story or lie that would sufficiently explain what a four-foot-tall half-fairy was doing this far into the dangerous forests of Cyndara. Half-truths were all she had now.

"At this point, it's not a question of if we cross into Sumenna. It's how." There was a pause, when she looked at Song, then Falsedge, then Azaria. Her eyes found that the halfling was already looking at her, but she didn't drop her eyes; she held Azaria's gaze for a moment longer before moving on. "If any of the other Sumennans have a suggestion, I would be all ears." She glanced at Iolas, but didn't seem to actually include him in the statement. "Your connections are likely more powerful than mine. But if not.. I may have a way to get us as far as Brynson."

Ora glanced around the room, but her eyes glazed past Quinn. It was true that Quinn had some connections and a contact in the Half-Sun Hills that let her get into Cyndara in the first place. There was a chance the contact would give them passage, but with such a large group, it was doubtful. And Trileon had a point. The more Cyndaran-looking people wouldn't be able to cross into Summena without serious disguises, and disguises that would withstand the sun's truthful gaze. Problems problems... Quinn frowned as she tried to think of what she should do in this situation. Somehow she doubted Lassard would want a group of Cyndaran warriors to go after him and his precious crystal. Could she warn him? Maybe, but she had no way of doing that without getting close. And to get close to Lassard, she needed a reason that these Cyndarans would trust.

Trust goes both ways... Quinn straightened up as she thought of the answer. Loyalty, however, does not.

A double agent. Of course! If she got the Cyndarans to believe that she was going to turn spy against her own people, then her talking with Lassard wouldn't be regarded as suspicious, but necessary. But now she just needed to get these people to believe that she would, in fact, turn against her own people.

Quinn spoke up, focusing on Desrick. "While we're outlining problems, we should probably think about what we'll do once we get to Lassard. He's going to have that crystal under heavy guard, and once it crosses the Half-Sun Hills that guard is going to double. An assault isn't going to win this fight. You're going to need information, and a way to steal the crystal without alerting the entire army that Lassard's probably amassed." She took a beat and crushed the impulses and training that told her what a bad idea revealing herself was. "It's no secret that I'm with Evereach. I'm one of their scouts--or I was, until they left me behind for dead. If I could help you deal a blow to Lassard and Evereach, I'll gladly offer my help."

I better get paid double for this job.


SilverFlight Flutterby Zazz mothspit

 

[Nevina]

Song quirked a brow at the unspoken words in Ora's halting speech, but pushed for no further inquiry. "I agree, they certainly appear too grand for a mere walk in the woods. Curious for him to be alone and unequipped for the task of traveling these lands, it seems."

She sat back, brows knit with worry. Would she be recognized and killed on spot? The fae had hoped that her own slap to the face of the nobles of Summena would go unpursued this far into Cyndara, especially given that there was clearly a war itching to happen, but that didn't mean she would be given a get-out-of-death-free card if recognized. Perhaps worse now, given that she had fled her death sentence.

Ora's words caught her by surprise, bringing her out of her reverie. She hadn't expected such appreciation, which was unorthodox given that she thought it was only natural for anyone to appreciate her mere presence. Not wanting to appear floundering, she quickly gave a beaming smile, "Thank you. It's the least I can do as one who has not a fair hand in battle. Everyone seems to be contributing much this past week, yourself included."

Flutterby

It was then that Desrick seemed to call for group opinion, though Song kept to herself to avoid drawing attention from the elf, at least until she could determine his purpose. She wasn't willing to place all of her faith on the priestess' appraisal like the Cyndarans, after all.

Falsedge's entrance made her feel relaxed, which prompted an angry huff at herself. Regardless, she trusted the warrior's skill if this newcomer meant anything to them. Watching their interactions in silence, the light fae was determined to prod her companion for further information later.

Song's head whipped at the centaur's sudden exclamation; the head priestess was indeed here. If this had happened a few days prior, she wouldn't have known if it was out of the ordinary or not, but with more knowledge of their culture under her belt, she tilted her head curiously. The newcomers passed judgement, for whatever value that meant.

The fae had heard tale of the other crystal's fortune, and dreaded what it meant for Cyndara. As she listened to Desrick's words, her glowing face blanched when she realized what he was asking of them. Return to Summena? She might have laughed at that, had she not understood why he was asking this of them. Slender fingers reached up and gingerly touched the scar across her face. It was at a stage of healing where it was no longer inflamed and puffy, but it would forever be unsightly. It had taken all of her will to smile and befriend others here, knowing what she looked like, that remaining sense of Summenan beauty still judging herself for it.

What good could she even be to such an excursion? She knew plenty of people, of course, but who would dare aid her after her blatant show? This group was right, though. Evereach wouldn't stop here. They didn't grab a giant crystal in the middle of nightmare country just because it looked pretty. It was only a matter of time before more Summenans found their way across the border, sword at hand. If she was doomed to death regardless of which land she stood on, she might as well try to do something with what time she had left. And, ideally, prevent said death from happening.

"I've no aid for crossing the border, but I might have some suggestions after." Song finally spoke, her tone a perfectly polite mask hiding her fear.

 

[Mythee]

"Wow, more people from Summena! Um, hi and nice to meet you." Arriving with Trileon, Valac had no idea what to make of all of them, but he greeted everyone properly as he arrived. He slithered into the house, reducing the amount of floor space by quite a lot before he piled over himself in the corner where he had previously left a few baskets of his merchant's goods. He listened attentively at the dialogue. Maybe later, he could apply the poultice.
"How about we just get to know each other better? Though, appraisals would also do the trick." He offered helpfully.
mothspit
---

Iolas' response had Falsedge leaning, for a moment, toward the possibility of memory loss due to this mental... injuries, but the look he shot her from beneath his fingers spoke enough. She broke into a low chuckle at that, which could be interpreted as her response to his double entendre. "Not that kind of ritual." She was sizing him up still, and if the sharpness of his wit in the moment was any indication, the high-elf would not be slow to move if he had any sudden violent urges.
She supposed it would be difficult to find out here and now, especially without employing the more direct methods of forcing someone to let more of their true nature slip. The others here- horse-man included- would likely try to stop her, making it more trouble than it was worth.
LazyDaze

The head priestess' arrival broke a moment of tension and raised the war djinn's brow, but she was beginning to suspect it should not have been a surprise. "Head priestess." She greeted. "Coming when you're called for- You priestesses have a hive mind or something? The other one here was saying something about needing more than one of you..." She gave Han an amused squint, knowing full well from the shifty behavior earlier that this woman was full of shit. When they had arrived with the other Summenans, their appraisal had been swiftly undertaken by a single priestess.
hwayi SilverFlight

She gave Desrick a glance as he joined the rest of them in witnessing the appraisal, and watched on with curiosity. Would a priestess' heart-reading magic warn them of a broken mind, if it was indeed broken?
Iolas' appraisal went off without a hitch, but Jilaina's...
A stubborn degenerate was more predictable than a wanting heart, wavering with every wind.
Desrick's statement- as if the matter of risks associated to these personages was settled- drew her gaze. She was growing weary of Cyndaran naivete once again.
"It does settle it, doesn't it, if one listens closely. Will you have to get shanked again before you begin to understand complex ties and motivations? Most people can wish the best for others while allowing harm to befall them regardless. Jilaina's indecision could cost us the integrity of any plan made in her presence."
She looked over to Oralia for support, because skies be damned if the half-dwarf didn't know better. Her face had been as if nursing a headache since earlier.
Flutterby SilverFlight

"The drow armed and trained like you, Lohr?" Fals asked him, at the suggestion that his people help to fortify Cyndara. "That would be a crucial asset."
Zazz

When Oralia stated they must return to Summena, the smallest of grunts escaped Falsedge, and she shut her eyes tight for two seconds with fingers pressed against her temples. What of Song? Would she wish to stay here? Casting a glance the noble fae's way, it dawned on her that the faerie would probably insist on twirling and leaping right into the next dangerous situation, but she seemed to have a knack for getting out of those unhurt.
"Brynson, huh." She said, and began to walk around the table while Jilaina spoke. "Well, now that she's heard this much, it's best to keep her as close to us as possible."
The logistics of Jilaina's suggested plan, in which she'd have a chance to approach Lassard without them while knowing the party's location, was not a good sign.
Falsedge came up to lean an elbow on her shoulder in a parody of camaraderie, speaking to her in a tone heavy with spiteful faux-affection. "That's cute, but Hell No. Our friends here might be idiotic enough to give you such a perfect chance to betray us, or let Lassard change your mind- trust me, he has ways- so I'll sooner run into his camp by myself than let you take ten steps away from the rest of us. It's going to be great. I hope you like company."
Yatasal
--

Valac understood the logic behind Falsedge's attitude, but her abrasiveness made him a little anxious. It was a point of conflict, but the least she could do would be to present it without throwing in an insult, right?

Azaria's statement about the diverse body plans of the Cyndarans drawing a death sentence drew a response from him.
"Haha, sorry... well, I've thought about going to Summena for a long time, learning about spells that could help me disguise myself, but it would require a lot of power, and the illusion would not be... robust, without rare enchanted materials. I've been looking for years, and I've only been able to collect one of many." He gestured to the large demon's eye gem encrusted on the hilt of his sword.
Zazz SilverFlight Nevina