Fantasy The Guild Stone ((Old Questing Thread))

[Sylph]

Azalea Gibraltar
Location: Guild Hall​

Azale glanced down at the nudge against her hand. Her brow rose, surprise evident, at the ghostly hound that sat patiently on its hind quarters. It looked up at her with eager, friendly eyes, it's tail swishing back and forth in a trail of smoke.

"...Hello there." Adjusting her shawl and crouching down to its level, she eyed the strange creature curiously. "You certainly look like you have an important task. May I?" Unlike most dogs, the sealed parchment was not covered in drool, but smoke. Wispy strands that dissipated against the ground as she shook them loose. Turning it over she noted the crest of cloaks stamped into dark wax. "Is this for me?"

Receiving an affirmative response from the dog she broke the seal and unfurled it to read. Neat, elegant penmanship ran down the page in cursive lines. After considering the contents with the ghost of a frown, she noticed the smoke-like creature still waiting where it had been, looking up at her expectantly.

"Oh, right, um... good job," she said. A dog was still a dog, surely. Reaching down she held her hand out for it to examine, before moving to scratch it behind the ears. Her hand could almost pass through the soft smoke, though there was some form of consistency holding it together. "Thank you for delivering a message all this way."
Plannit

 

[Plannit]

He prodded her hand with his nose again, this time slightly more adamantly. At last the plant turned to look at him, surprise in her eyes though at the very least she appeared friendly. He wagged his tail, take the letter, take it. Surely she'd know it was for her- surely she was the plant he'd been directed to. The rest of the plants all sat in pots or grew through the hall's walls, last he checked those were not the plants he could bring messages to- bury them under sure, but they weren't as talkative as most.
Usually.

"...Hello there."

She leaned down to him, hesitating a moment. Come on, take the letter, this is my mission.

"You certainly look like you have an important task. May I?"

He let go of the parchment as she gently took it, turning it back and forth in her hand as she inspected it.

"Is this for me?"

She took it! He gave a quiet bark in response. He could understand the people of Lantana, though he couldn't speak to them they usually got the gist of what he was trying to relay through simple barks- or growls, if he didn't like them very much. In this case though the plant was nice.
She opened the letter, taking a moment to read through what was written. An odd expression settled on her face though it melted away when she looked at him again.

"Oh, right, um... good job, Thank you for delivering a message all this way."

My mission is done, at last. He was glad, and gladder still to receive both praise and a pat from her, responding with another quiet, pleased bark before trotting away, though before he got very far he faded away into wisps of smoke before leaving no trace of his presence.

- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -

Cerus Alucita

The city was, as always, bustling. Full of colourful faces from all walks of life and all corners and countries. He frequented the place, though no matter how often he'd visit he'd see someone and something new.
Today however, he sought someone in particular. The sudden wave he felt in his magic assured him his hound had found his target and the message was delivered, he'd returned and with him an assortment of sights and sounds from his brief trip. "Ah, very good." He muttered to himself, adjusting the shoulders of his cloak before taking a place with good view of the city entrance, she'd arrive soon.
His eyes darted between faces: scanning, watching, taking them in. He hadn't seen her in quite some time though he knew he'd recognise her, she was a difficult face to forget, and could be described as somewhat of a difficult person in general. She was following a stranger who appeared rather bothered, another stranger in tow, both members of the guild no doubt.

He'd drifted into thought while waiting when at last a head of pale hair caught his attention. A spritely face and bright cloak- Ymir. He couldn't help but allow a slight smile, stepping away from the wall he'd been leaning on and following her for a short while till finally she stopped.

"Fancy meeting you here."

Sylph Key of Stars TeaMMatE11

- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -

Tuur

He returned to the guild, walking directly towards Azalea and dropping two bags on the desk before her. "Volcanic soil," He explained, "for your garden." The quest was a bust, but he hated to return empty-handed.
"The land is toxic to most." He sighed. The magmur was used to the toxic air that came with volcanic stirring, and the guidance of the strange creature Glim helped him traverse the place quickly. Upon reaching the castle he found it full of goblins, though they had little interest in conflict, less interest still in leaving the mountain that now gave them much protection, similarly after the disaster which left it in such a state it was not a place most humans would want to live. "No sign of the missing adventurers, and no trace of any lich."
Tuur nodded politely to Azalea, with that his report was done. ​

 

[Sylph]

"I'm Eiru Eagna, Gold Rank Adventurer. Could you please escort me and my companion to the acting commander there's much that needs to be discussed and papers that need to be signed in relation to the proper order of this quest. I'm afraid an official request from the guards is a little too formal for an open-air discussion."

"Anything you have to say can be said in front of them." A commanding voice rung in following Eiru's statement. The guards both stiffened, heels snapping together as they stepped aside to allow their superior to step through. She wore full armour, weathered and blemished through years of use. Her features seemed no better. Age peered through the deep lines in her expression, though the sallowness of it took away none of the severity. Her eyes were sharp, attentive. Flickering between the two adventurers and lingering doubtfully on the smaller, more colourfully dressed witch.

"I am Angora Guile, commander in chief," she said. Steel-grey eyes settled on both the issued request and the symbol on the waystone Eiru held out, inlaid with a gold rune. The gate guard from earlier stepped to Angora's side, reporting something too quiet for the adventurers to hear. The commander's gaze flickered to the cloaked adventurer. "A mind user?" she said. Guarded eyes examined the mask and tattered cloak, before clicking with the certainty of a decision. She dismissed the words with a curt wave. "It matters not. We are in no position to adhere to common rules. Both of you, follow me."

Turning on heel Angora led them both further inside the outpost. Inlaid steel and jagged walls were not only for the outer gates. Further inside they passed men working metal into plates and weapons, mages standing by to etch in protective runes as they cooled. No less than a dozen guards patrolled the top walls, always in pairs, attention unwavering as they examined the smoking, desolate plains. Tension ran high and thin throughout the compound. A deep exhaustion that clung to their shoulders and weighed down their steps. Even the darkest of skins appeared sallow under a sky that gave neither warmth nor shining light.

"I am to assume it is but you two then?" Agora spoke as they walked, her plated armour clanking with each step against the hardwood floors. "I have no complaints if you are competent enough, but there is something to be said for strength in numbers."

Despite her earlier words she held off on saying much until they reached what seemed to be the heart of the complex. At its centre a map was spread across the stone slab, penned in solid ink. Small stones and other markers were spread across it, some marking outposts, others representing enemy locations, or points of interest. Angora turned to them both, gaze steely as she began to speak.

"Listen well. I know not how much you both knew of this region before its downfall, but I can assure you it was not always the wasteland it is today." Her gauntlet hovered over a certain part of the map, tapping it with faint displeasure. "This place always had a strong connection to the afterworld, ever since the battle of Solmar saw thousands dead upon its soil. It was never an issue, apart from the occasional spirit slipping through." Angora breathed in, exhaling sharply before she continued. "The number of incidents began to rise close to two years ago. After investigation it was found the disturbance was coming from the other side of the veil, leaving us little to do but contain its influence. The past year however has seen the decay begin to spread at an uncontrollable rate, to the point we fear a rift will form. Adding to the disaster it appears whatever was on the other side of the disturbance has some sort of sentient will. It has been binding spirits of the dead to those who used to reside in the region."

Angora passed a hand over her face, pausing to reorder her thoughts. "We have been working to evacuate residents and prevent unauthorised entry, but it seems the enemy has turned to other sorts of vassals. Animals are the most affected, though we have lost plenty of our guards to their ranks. It's clear some kind of force is amassing at the centre. Only the familiars returned from the scouts we sent to investigate. We know through them that they are being kept alive for an unknown purpose. I cannot afford to wait for the kingdom to bring reinforcements, nor recklessly waste what precious guards I have left by throwing them against unyielding walls." Angora paused to take breath, exhaustion evident in the heavy set of her shoulders. "I don't know what abilities you both possess, but if you can use them to recover the scouts then you will do this campaign a great justice. The familiars will lead you to their location, but beware, once you pass a certain point enchanted items will cease to work. That includes your guild map and waystone-" Angora glanced to the broom Eiru carried with her. "As well as any other, miscellaneous objects."
Vol Uasal

 

[Vagabond Spectre]

Elias Allard
Location: Guild Hall —> Guild bar/dining area


Guild Mornings are always the most interesting to the cook. Other than preparing and serving important meals for the guild members it’s also the only time where he gets to see adventurers select their missions where their talents and efforts are rewarded by completion. Witnessing both old and new members stare into the board is something he always never gets tired of seeing.

The sun rises as well as Elias. Punctual as always, the young man is the Guild cook after all. Some adventurers enjoy taking a nice warm cup of milk he has on a pint made of wood, available at the dining area as it remains warm over a big hot pot. It seems that he is returning to his stationed kitchen to monitor of it’s cleanliness like he usual does every morning.

Passing through the guild hall firts. Voices filled the hall with life as the guild members and even scribe are present. Elias walks around the circle of conversation to avoid interruption, a mannerism that Elias is known for. The usual relaxed grin on his face remained the same just like any day before. The young man appears to be heading back to the kitchen.

 

[Vol]

THE HAUNTING GROUNDS
Location: Guard Outpost
Interactions: Eiru Eagna Uasal / Angora Guile Sylph
Honourable mentions: Tyron Avattica / Kira Voland Zufaix
Quest: Rescue Mission
Reward: 2000 coins​

"A mind user? It matters not. We are in no position to adhere to common rules. Both of you, follow me."

Zion had met her inspective gaze with his usual silence but was stumped about the label plastered onto him. He was no mind user, his magic was hardly of the sort and they haven't even seen it yet. It seemed as if telepathy was...uncommon, as if it wasn't already obvious with how Tyron had reacted. But he himself never figured it harmful; though from now on he'll take more care. Perhaps even donning an illusory face with moving lips, but that would be a last resort for sure.

Whilst he followed the commander and enchantress into the wooden fortress, he quietly commended Eiru's professional behaviour. He had never thought of showcasing his guild sigil and rank badage during introduction before. It was somewhat futile when he usually dealt with mages that blasted first then asked questions later. Furthermore, his previous clientele were desperate for help that they took his intimidating build as the hired muscle they were searching for.

The interior was as well guarded as it's outside, but the atmosphere was bleak. Zion was quite familiar with this air; it ranked of uncertainty, of sickness, of looming death. As his gaze wandered throughout the place, he could see the grim presence branded onto their beings as they dutifuly went about their responsibilities. Zion realised, just now, that it was somewhat dark in the fortress despite having no solid roof and it only being afternoon. This fortress, this secure haven, reminded him of catacombs.

"I am to assume it is but you two then? I have no complaints if you are competent enough, but there is something to be said for strength in numbers."

He held his tongue, metaphorically, towards the commander, but he nudged the name of Tyron Avattica and Kira Voland into the witch's mind. She probably would not have forgotten about the two already, but he just wanted to be sure.

Eventually the trio stopped at a room. The assigned "war-room" Zion assumed. It wasn't exactly comely but it served its purpose well. A desk was shoved to the side, almost bursting full with scrolls and papers, and atop of it littered with stationery. Shelves thick books and reports lined a wall. There were no windows.

The undead battlemage decided to stand on the other side of the stone table, so they weren't cramped together on one end, as his mask followed Angora's fingers tracing across a surprisingly well kept map.

"Listen well. I know not how much you both knew of this region before its downfall, but I can assure you it was not always the wasteland it is today." Her gauntlet hovered over a certain part of the map, tapping it with faint displeasure. "This place always had a strong connection to the afterworld, ever since the battle of Solmar saw thousands dead upon its soil. It was never an issue, apart from the occasional spirit slipping through."

Zion's gloved fingers found themselves bracing against the stone, soulmatter crackling within the recesses of his ribcage.

"The number of incidents began to rise close to two years ago. After investigation it was found the disturbance was coming from the other side of the veil, leaving us little to do but contain its influence. The past year however has seen the decay begin to spread at an uncontrollable rate, to the point we fear a rift will form. Adding to the disaster it appears whatever was on the other side of the disturbance has some sort of sentient will. It has been binding spirits of the dead to those who used to reside in the region."

Was this it? This place, this haunted wasteland, the cause of his affliction? Was it possible that he wasn't the only one suffering through this? It wasn't too long ago he had been dragged back into the mortal coil, possibly within the timeframe Angora had stated. But if that, indeed, was the place...how come he had woken up somewhere else?

To Eiru and Angora, it would look like the battlemage was frozen in time; a statue built leaning onto the table.

"We have been working to evacuate residents and prevent unauthorised entry, but it seems the enemy has turned to other sorts of vassals. Animals are the most affected, though we have lost plenty of our guards to their ranks. It's clear some kind of force is amassing at the centre. Only the familiars returned from the scouts we sent to investigate. We know through them that they are being kept alive for an unknown purpose. I cannot afford to wait for the kingdom to bring reinforcements, nor recklessly waste what precious guards I have left by throwing them against unyielding walls.

"I don't know what abilities you both possess, but if you can use them to recover the scouts then you will do this campaign a great justice. The familiars will lead you to their location, but beware, once you pass a certain point enchanted items will cease to work. That includes your guild map and waystone-" Angora glanced to the broom Eiru carried with her. "As well as any other, miscellaneous objects."

There it was, the information they needed for the quest. This wasn't just an ordinary rescue mission; Azalea underestimated it. But it wasn't her fault, far from it. He would thank her with a drink of her choice and hopefully some peace of mind if he manages to get back to Waystone. This...could be it.
Suddenly Zion moved, his arm like a blur as it reached to grab his head.

His. Head. Was. Pounding. Or was it his soul? A moan slithered through the open crevices of his mask; the noise sounding like a draft creeping through the wooden walls of the room.

Spoiler: Through the keyhole of a memory

ID: A black background with words that occassionally fade. An unknown speaker (A) says "Yes this spot shall serve." Another unknown speaker (B) responds snarkily: "Spooky. You mages and yer weird hangouts." The black background fades to white, and a familiar voice speaks: "Enough of that, Norwich. Don't let them stray too far."

Zion caught himself before he could collapse, the hand at his mask grappling for the edge of the stone table as it was a life buoy and he was drowning. He shook his head vigorously, his cloak's hood almost becoming displaced before it settled. Fortunately he managed to catch and understand Angora's advice before the little episode, and he then nodded (just as vigorously) to show that. He was fortunate enough that he didn't have much enchanted items on him, either than the Waystone and bag of holding.

'If she asks what just happened, explain to her that I suffer from, uh, occasional migraines when, erm, given...too much information at once?' He communicated to Eiru's mind, the words strangely slurring together. He pushed himself off the stone table, taking the moment of Eiru's processing to recover from whatever the hell just flashed in his memories.

 

[Zufaix]

Kira Voland
Location: ???
Interactions: Sylph (Tyron)
Mentions: N/A
Current Quest: Rescue Mission​

As the light began to fade across Kira's vision the sight before her was completely unfamiliar. Some sort of thin haze had covered what seemed to be a forest, though not a very lively one. Dead branches and soil seemed to cover the entire area in a melancholic aura. The only color that protruded through the greys and browns, was the bright shade of red not stood far from her. His hand over his sword seemed to remind Kira that there was a good chance they were in danger, and she followed in suit by surveying the area once again, but instead for any dangers that could be nearby. She seemed awestruck by what had happened before, there wasn't anything like that in Aestir. Affirming that there were no nearby threats she looked back to Tyron for some sort of recognition as to what was happening.

"Great. Now that we aren't stuck with the commentary, we can actually get some work done."

It was definitely much quieter here, not accounting for the hissing and howling ambiance. She took a few steps closer to Tyron upon his withdrawal of the parchment. Looking over his shoulder, it seemed to be a map of some sort, though magical in nature.

He certainly comes prepared, doesn't he?

"There should be a guard outpost nearby. We'll head there to gather information."

Kira nodded in agreement. Knowledge is half the battle as they say.

"Sounds like a plan. Though on the topic of information, what was that stone you used earlier? Can't say I've ever seen something like that in Aestir at the least. She gave a quizzical look towards Tyron as she brought her hand to her chin in thought.

 

[Sylph]

Ymir
Location: Lantana Outer District​

"A church, I see... Wait, a church?!" Leo's suprise faded in the wake of a grin. "Did you finally decide to own up to all those sins and ask for forgiveness? Can't imagine that's it or you would have been stuck in that church for at least another year."

Ymir cackled, but didn't disagree. If she went by what they called sin sure. Everyone had a different idea of the proper way to live.

"Did you listen to what I just said about her not- Wait! Can I at least eat breakfast? I need to do something about this hangover!"

"Nope!" She ignored his protests as she dragged him out of the guild, following Sapphire ahead of them with her sight. As they caught up to the huntress Leo piled on after her words.

"You ready for an adventure?" Good old Leo, always up for a little maverick making. Sapphire shot them an outright unpleasant look, but whatever she said would slide like water off a duck's back against the two, masterful grins of the guild's troublemakers.

"Fancy meeting you here."

At least, it would have if Ymir ever heard them.

The self-assured voice spoke with the courtly edge one only achieved growing up in aristocracy. It quickly consumed her attention, smile frozen as she turned to see a familiar face.

Cerus. He was taller, frustratingly. Moreso than she remembered. He'd grown his hair out with the lines of his expression, but he still had that overlarge cloak that attracted so many suspicious stares. The one he only wore when he was out to make someone's day miserable.

"You-" Ymir said eventually, crossing her arms. The fact he wasn't in more formal attire meant he was probably out on undercover business (the idea of it being an idle walk was laughable). Why he'd bothered to speak to her, when she had long outlived cooperating with him, was a mystery. "What do you want?"
Key of Stars Plannit

 

[Key of Stars]

Leonidas Hood
Location: Lantana Outer District​

"Fancy meeting you here." As the unfamiliar voice called out Leonidas could feel Ymir's mood shift. He temporarily shifted his gaze away from Sapphire, planning to focus on the hunter again when she would decide to respond, and onto the stranger.

He quietly observed the man who had called out, the usual smile not present on his face for once. The man's clothing was a tad odd but it did little good in helping Leonidas determine the man's status or profession. The way he carried himself in combination with the well-kept hair and striking eyes that were currently completely focussed on Ymir lead Leonidas to a preliminary guess. A noble. Leonidas had dealt with his fair share of noblemen in the past and he wasn't particularly fond of everything that came with high society.

All throughout his observation, Ymir had stayed completely silent which put Leonidas even more on edge than before. Reflexively, he lowered his right hand to the hilt of his rapier, lightly touching the worn leather of the grip with the tops of his fingers.

After a while, Ymir spoke. "You-" she said, crossing her arms. The tone of her voice and the arm crossing gesture put Leonidas ever so slightly at ease. At the very least, this meant that Ymir probably knew the man and was simply on bad terms with him compared to him being an enemy. He took his hand off of the hilt of the rapier at his side, letting his right hand idly hang next to his hip.

"What do you want?" Ymir asked. The annoyance in her voice was clear but it also mostly confirmed Leonidas's earlier guess. He relaxed even more as he pulled his right hand back up, combing it through his hair quickly before putting it back into the pocket of his jacket. He turned his body back to Sapphire ever so slightly as to not miss a response to the earlier proposal of a quest as well as to observe her reaction to the new situation.
Sylph Plannit TeaMMatE11

 

[Uasal]

Eiru Eagna
Gold Rank Support
Location: Outpost Gates

​

Eiru's posture stiffened and a soft sigh escaped her when a commanding voice rang out from behind the slowly opening gates afront herself. When both the guards snapped to attention Eiru visibly winced even if she recovered quick enough for the approaching commander not to notice. The commander that had appeared was aged, much like the armour she wore but her senses seemed refined, shaper than a woodman's axe. Eyes like a hawk, aura all imposing and from what little Eiru could tell with her magic, the woman had spirit to spare. Still, as impressive as she was, Eiru had little time for those in the Guards, often it was brawn that triumphed over wit when It came to said family and order. Tyronn a fine example of just that. Eiru stood quietly as the commander observed both herself and Zion, making a mental note of the doubtful lingering stare she herself had received. Again this only served as proof of her aforementioned theory.

After a short silence in which the two women judged one another the commander finally introduced herself by name. Angora Guile. What a fitting name, a long-coated sly goat. When the guard who had been handling Eiru's papers approached Angora and whispered to the commander, Eiru immediately raised her guard. Did her papers not match up? Impossible, then it had to be... Eiru's train of thought was cut short as she heard Angora loudly announce she had no issue with Zion being a mind user. Absurd! A commander in the Guard faction and she didn't mind! Just how bad was the situation! Further then when Angora announced she had no issue straying from the rules Eiru had to try with all her might not to facepalm then and there. Sure guards, for all their talk, were renowned for stretching the rules but for a commander to announce such out loud was honestly a level of stupidity Eiru had overlooked.

Gripping her broom tightly Eiru simply sighed yet again and moved to follow behind the behemoth of a woman Angora was. Stopping only to take back her papers as she passed through the gates. As Eiru and Zion were guided deeper into the outpost Eiru took in her surroundings. For a small outpost, the men within were very well disciplined, there was no shortage of smiths either. The forest was a dangerous place, but for such a well-manned outpost a silver ranking request seemed somewhat out of place. Were reinforcements sent after the fact the quest was issued? Only time would tell. Passing by the smithing area Eiru stopped briefly to examine the crafts, mages were working on inscribing protections and that often caught the eye of the small witch. Their work was standard, scribing a little rough around the edges but acceptable for a production such as this. Eiru did however wince at the sight of one particular mage who's scribing was rather... messy. None the less it wasn't her place to but in and so she quickly moved to catch up with the commander and her companion.

Once Eiru had caght up with the two Angora posed Eiru and Zion a question. Was it just the two of them assigned to this quest? When Zion pushed Tyronn and Kira's name into Eiru's head Eiru offered him a simple nod but made no move to inform the commander of the other two just yet. Once inside, Angora moved to explain the current situation the area found itself in. Eiru listened carefully to her explanation and moved a hand to her chin as she thought on the matter. It made sense, the area being a hot spot for spiritual activity. Especially malicious spiritual activity given the great battle of Solmar's death toll and the fact it was a bloody war in itself. But what didn't add up for Eiru was the fact a spiritual entity residing in the forest was nearing a stage where it could tear open a rift in the veil. This was not something easy to accomplish by any means. It was one thing, an impressive thing at that, for a necromancer to summon forth a sentient undead but it was completely irregular and exceedingly rare for an intelligent spirit to rip apart the veil itself from the other side. Possible yes, had happened often enough in the past but with modern magic and knowledge, such a thing was often halted before it could reach such a critical stage. Was this negligence on the guards part when it came to containment or something much bigger? From her brief intake of the area while travelling to the outpost it was clear as day to see the forest was being contaminated at an alarming rate but... a sentient undead spirit? Reviving itself from the other side? In this day and age? This was not right.

Eiru was deep in thought when Angora spoke again, snapping her from the rabbit hole she was getting herself into. Looking to the map Eiru listened closely until the mention of returning familiars was raised. At that point Eiru grit her teeth tight and waited as patiently as she could for the woman to finish her piece. Then she erupted, slamming her freehand onto the table, knocking the stone idols on their sides. With her eyes locked on Angora Eiru clicked her tongue, eyes aflame with anger, face twisted by rage. "You sent out a silver ranking quest for this! SILVER! ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL SOMEBODY!" Eiru Moved to stand afront the commander, her small frame overshadowed by the large woman yet somehow her aura appeared much larger in this moment "If your scout's familiars have returned and are still alive then this is no mere silver ranked mission. This is at least a gold if not higher! That 'sentient' spirit you mentioned. It's keeping those scouts alive for some dastardly ritual. Undead do not take prisoners! They make sacrifices! Right now you barely understand the seriousness of the situation yourself. The second those damn familiars returned you should have called an army here at once. Your scouts are dead! Alive but dead! They're going to die! There are two adventures from our guild here today that are not with us, a copper rank and an iron. They could be out there right now! You never mentioned the animals were overtaken! Not once! Everything here is an enemy!".

Turning on her heel Eiru moved to lend Zion aid, offering her shoulder to the man for support. Still enraged Eiru continued, not looking at the commander whatsoever as she made for the door with Zion, her broom following behind them by itself. "Don't even get me started on the enchantment part! A silver quest that Adventures cant warp out of! RIDICULOUS! I'll go gather those two other fools and then I'll do my best to save your scouts. However, If I cannot save them I will kill them myself. Any time I can buy the main force is time needed. I won't allow them to become sacrifices for whatever that undead has planned!"
With Zion out the door now Eiru turned back to view thew commander one last time "When you request an army be dispatched I want you to do me a favour. Let the commanding officer know your falsely ranked quest has put Tyron Avattica in danger. That should at least speed things up. And you're going to need to coordinate with the Arcane family. The guards cannot repair a breach if it so happens. Tell them I've made that assessment, that too should speed things up."

Slamming the door behind her Eiru exclaimed "You should be ashamed!".

Sylph Vol Zufaix

 

[Sylph]

Angora blinked as the thin hand slammed down on her map, before a flash of very real anger twisted her gaze. That map--those markings--were their efforts at mapping a region where enchanted items would not work. They would be going in blind without it. Angora's chest rose as she considered the smaller, ill-tempered woman through narrowed eyes.

"You sent out a silver ranking quest for this! SILVER! ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL SOMEBODY!" The commander didn't budge as Eiru circled the table and to stop in front of her. The aura that lapped around them was potent, but hardly a threat. Angora was well aware the witch was a support role. The rumours that circled about them were endless, after all. "If your scout's familiars have returned and are still alive then this is no mere silver ranked mission. This is at least a gold if not higher! That 'sentient' spirit you mentioned. It's keeping those scouts alive for some dastardly ritual. Undead do not take prisoners! They make sacrifices! Right now you barely understand the seriousness of the situation yourself. The second those damn familiars returned you should have called an army here at once. Your scouts are dead! Alive but dead! They're going to die! There are two adventures from our guild here today that are not with us, a copper rank and an iron. They could be out there right now! You never mentioned the animals were overtaken! Not once! Everything here is an enemy!"

Eiru turned on heel, having yelled her piece, yet no sooner had she done so then a deafening boom shook the structure. The door in the entrance slammed shut with a reverberating rumble. Angora's arm was raised and extended. "Sit down, Eiru Eagna."

But Eiru seemed to have no intention of stopping. Their tirade continued as they all but ignored the person they was talking to and Angora stood deathly still, her hands locked beneath blemished gauntlets. Her eyes remained focused and deathly, deathly cold.

"Don't even get me started on the enchantment part! A silver quest that Adventures cant warp out of! RIDICULOUS! I'll go gather those two other fools-" The commander straightened, something akin to alertness in her gaze as she almost cut the woman off there and then- "and then I'll do my best to save your scouts. However, If I cannot save them I will kill them myself. Any time I can buy the main force is time needed. I won't allow them to become sacrifices for whatever that undead has planned!"

The witch finally turned back to look at her, tossing yet further words over her shoulder. "When you request an army be dispatched I want you to do me a favour. Let the commanding officer know your falsely ranked quest has put Tyron Avattica in danger-" Angora sucked in a breath, eyes blazing. "That should at least speed things up. And you're going to need to coordinate with the Arcane family. The guards cannot repair a breach if it so happens. Tell them I've made that assessment, that too should speed things up."

The silence that permeated the room was heavy and stifling. Within it Eiru saw fit to toss yet another line her way."You should be ashamed!"

It may as well have been the final straw. Angora's eyes fixed on Eiru with a fury that was cold in contempt. By some miracle she kept her hand off her sword hilt as she approach them, but her aura seethed with a countenance of suppressed rage. There were no windows in the complex, and with the inlaid metal doors ground shut there was no in or out. Flickering torches lit the room, painting Angora's features in a warlike visage.

"You let the heir to the Avatticus family out of your sight?" The words were slow and quiet, dangerously so. She seemed to stand taller than she did before, the deep gauges and marks in her armour all the more evident in the shadow cast light. "You-" she said "-as a gold rank, not only agreed to let the guard's esteemed heir accompany you on a rank above his level, but you lost him?" She all but ignored the cloaked adventurer, directing the words at Eiru alone. "Then have the audacity to cast insult and blame. Make no mistake, Eiru Eagna-" The name twisted on her tongue, poisonous and sharp. "Lord Avatticus is under the guild's protection. You will bear the consequence of his death."

Eyes flashing she stepped back, out of range where she might do something regrettable. It was expected a commander should not act on impulse, yet her breathing was barely restrained.

"I do, in fact, have a gold rank request out, Ms Eagna. I would not conceive of requesting silver for the extermination of such a force. A rescue mission, however, is well within the scope of a competent silver rank adventurer." In fact silver was the lowest rank allowed to supervise for missions in unmarked zones, which were plentiful and varied in a world that was yet wild and untamed--rife with magic and beings they didn't understand.

"Nor will the House of Arcane be needed," Angora continued, recalling her words. She seemed to regain somewhat of her composure, easing the rigid gauntlet at her side open and closed. "You may have won over those highbrow magicians in the arcane house, but I do not trust your new-fangled magic. The primordial spirits are the only ones known to close the rifts. They have thus far refused to do anything, and so we must make do."

Reaching a hand towards the entrance, the sound of grinding metal on stone scraped open with the gargantuan door.

"Ms Eagna, you are dismissed." Angora said. It wasn't a request. The command would be followed or Angora would throw them out herself. "I strongly suggest you equip yourself with sturdier gear. The armory will provide. You-" she said, addressing Zion, "-remain here." His scattered state mattered little in that moment. The doors would once again grind shut after the witch had left.

But it was not the words Angora loathed the witch to hear. All at once her strength seemed to depart, the lines in her face telling of a deep and weary exhaustion. Angora examined the figure, who for much of her explanation had stood all but frozen in time. He had seemed to regain himself towards the end of the discussion, but remained silent in the face of both their outbursts.

"I apologise if this has upset you," Angora said eventually. She sighed, easing herself back onto a stone seat and gesturing for him to do the same, if he so wished. The rigid set of their shoulders gave away the exhaustion that iron masks could not. Angora saw it too often in her soldiers.

"I'll keep this brief, since there are far more pressing matters. You may have realised by now, but there will be no army to assist us." Angora closed her eyes, sighing at what seemed to be a well-discussed topic. "The Solmar region is too far removed from the main kingdom, and the crown has more pressing matters in the east. Even Avattica is not so important they will turn their backs to march west--which is why I must retrieve those men, regardless of their state. They hold information on the depths of the rift, and if I have to pry it out of their broken minds I shall." Her gaze flickered with fire and cold steel. "Perhaps this land has made me heartless, but I have lost too much to this plague already. Please ensure Eagna does not act in haste. I will entrust my men's familiars to you."

Two small, white and brown ferrets scampered out from gods new where, leaping onto Zion. Bracing herself once more Angora rose a hand to the heavy doors. They scraped open once more, officially releasing the two make a start on their quest.
Vol Uasal

 

[Uasal]

Eiru Eagna
Gold Rank Support
Location: Outpost Gates​

Once Eiru had made it outside the compound gates she had time to relax and think about the current situation more clearly. With two guards manning the gate itself she wasn't quite alone but none the less she was more than happy to get away from Angora. With Zion still inside Eiru moved to produce a notebook from her bag along with a pencil. Opening the book she began to think to herself, taking a few deep breaths to first clear her clouded mind.

First of all, finding the two rookies was priority numero uno. This situation could quickly escalate into an all-out slaughter if Tyronn found himself hurt in any major way. Not to mention Kira who was a noble from a faraway land. Honestly, why did he have to act so childish and flash off like that! Eiru of course knew it was the result of her own childish actions but quickly dismissed the thought and began quickly scribbling down what little information she had gathered from Angora. Pressing the pencil then to her temple Eiru let out a soft sigh, a rescue mission in a forest of undead controlled by an intelligent spirit attempting a jailbreak. If only she had taken Kira on a separate quest...

Leaning back against her broom Eiru snapped her notebook closed and returned it to her bag before pulling out her guild map. Looking at it Eiru noticed several points were being blocked from view, just as the commander had explained. "If Ymir was here I could find those two easily... I doubt Zion has any kind of tracking magic... I can't carry him on my broom either... Ahhh Tyronn!" Tossing her map back into her bag grumpily Eiru began scratching her head ferociously "Damn it! If I let that brat die I won't be able to stay in the guild and if I'm not in the guild I won't be able to hunt ancient tomes as effectively! I'll have to leave the country and go underground and it'll really mess up my timeframe! Ughhh! Damn nobles! Think Eiru, Think!"

After a few seconds, the witch's sparatic movements stopped and she sprang to her feet. If the scout's familiars had searching magic then finding the two runaways would be made far easier. Turning back to view the gate Eiru awaited Zion's arrival eagerly. She was still more than annoyed by the commander but a strongly worded letter would be received in due course. Provided the Brute could read anyway!

Sylph Vol Zufaix

 

[Vol]

THE HAUNTING GROUNDS
Location: Guard Outpost -> Outpost Gates
Interactions: Angora Guile Sylph / Eiru Eagna Uasal
Honourable mentions: Tyron Avattica / Kira Voland Zufaix
Quest: Rescue Mission
Reward: 2000 coins​

He couldn't piece together the flashes from earlier as what was a neutral discussion had exploded into shocked outbursts. At first he had awkwardly taken the offered aid of Eiru, his gloved hand resting gently on her smaller shoulder. It dropped off as soon the words grew more heated and Zion had to take a step back from the two women, feeling out of place but also unwilling to really interject. Eiru's concerns about this quest being ranked wrong had its merits; he agreed somewhat. The mission's location was out of Zion's and even Eiru's paygrade, despite the enchantress being a gold rank. She was merely support after all. However the task broken down to its bare bones was just do-able for a capable silver rank, since it was a 'in-and-out situation' rather than 'investigate the source of what's ailing the haunted wasteland and destroy it'.

The undead battlemage took note of Eiru's concern for her guildmates, it would've been admirable had it not been ruined for when she spat about the undead. He kept quiet, of course, and he shouldn't be fuming about such atrocities with most of the evidence being true. And yet...everyone failed to look past the horror of shambling corpses, and not at the trapped essence within. He could not blame them. He shouldn't. His fist became clenched, however.

Zion's head snapped towards the doorway as solid metal blocked the only exit out of the room. Tension was high but he made no move to stance himself, that would most likely make the situation even worse. No blood should be shed here, there's already much of it soaking the dirt outside the encampment. He hoped Eiru would ride out her bout of rage and the commander-in-chief will let her go with only a slap on the wrist.

"You let the heir to the Avatticus family out of your sight?"
"You--as a gold rank, not only agreed to let the guard's esteemed heir accompany you on a rank above his level, but you lost him?"
Then have the audacity to cast insult and blame. Make no mistake, Eiru Eagna-"
"Lord Avatticus is under the guild's protection. You will bear the consequence of his death."

He visibly winced at the fury of the commander's words as eyeless sockets peered through his mask to gaze at the witch's reaction. Zion thought that Tyron was just another aristocrat out of many. Yes, he's heard rumours and gossip about the princeling. But he never really gauged just how big a deal he was. Nobility sure were a handful and he had no more hands to spare...
But he won't let Tyron die. The promise made with Azalea was of higher priority than the history and status of the Avattica -- but so was his own investigation. One step at a time. That bridge will be crossed when it had to be.

"Ms Eagna, you are dismissed. I strongly suggest you equip yourself with sturdier gear. The armory will provide."

Zion tilted his head, the tirade seemingly to be over, and he moved to follow after the retreating enchantress.

You--remain here."

He stopped abruptly as if his body was stuck at a red traffic light, then turned towards her. In contrast from when he had been with Eiru and the two other nobles, Zion was once again hard to read; an unyielding statue, a motionless golem. But he was attentive, masked visage on level with the commander's own.

"I apologise if this has upset you,"

A shake of his head and a dismissive wave of his hand, as if his gestures would convey 'this was the least of his problems'. He glanced at the chair the drained woman offered, contemplating if he should comply out of sheer courtesy. He remained standing, a nodded tilt of his head to pass the offering. Zion would sit down sooner or later to meditate -- he knew he wouldn't be staying here for long.

"I'll keep this brief, since there are far more pressing matters. You may have realised by now, but there will be no army to assist us."

Zion crossed his arms at that statement, hand once again waving dismissively, despite Angora missing this action as she rested her eyes. He understood that too well -- why waste an army of the living against the dead? The dead did not need to rest or eat. They did not bleed and they would keep just on coming. A curse on itself; both sides would suffer.

"The Solmar region is too far removed from the main kingdom, and the crown has more pressing matters in the east. Even Avattica is not so important they will turn their backs to march west--which is why I must retrieve those men, regardless of their state. They hold information on the depths of the rift, and if I have to pry it out of their broken minds I shall."

If the undead adventurer had brows, they would be raised. He did not mind being a little cog in the greater clockwork of the world's happenings, but it still intrigued him that there was always something happening, and there would be a ripple effect because of it. Though now Zion understood as to why Angora was so bent on retrieving the scouts was not because of camaraderie, as the quest poster originally had suggested. No, this was more practical -- if Eiru had known perhaps she would still be here hearing this information. Angora may not be best commander-in-chief, as if he had known many, but his soulmatter would entrust her with his discipline. A familiar sensation.

"Perhaps this land has made me heartless, but I have lost too much to this plague already. Please ensure Eagna does not act in haste. I will entrust my men's familiars to you.

Before Zion could react, a blur of white and brown pounced onto him. His rigid composure was broken instantly and he found himself hastily grabbing at one creature and uttering a soft clicking noise when one of them had banged against his chest piece. He grabbed that one too and held both of them at arm's length; the ferrets little paws scrabbling for purchase on his gauntlets.

'I understand. You are not heartless, you are just...exhausted. I will do what I can.' He carefully dropped the words into Angora's mentalspace.
Though he did say he wouldn't communicate via telepathy, Angora already knew of it, and he did not want to leave without saying anything, especially after she had described herself that way.

Zion moved towards the exit, ferrets still held at a distance.
'Stay alive, commander.'

_______________________________

He spied the enchantress by the great gates of the fortress, and she seemed to be looking a bit chipper than before. Good, perhaps she just needed to...let it out.
Zion waved towards her, and the ferret within that hand was shook back and forth.

'Hi. You didn't leave without me.' A statement that held no joy or disdain, just factual. As he neared the witch, he let the ferrets go; one of them scampered up against Eiru's leg and the other sniffed her broom. 'These creatures will lead us from now on. Now I have to keep an eye on you AND Tyron. Please try and rein it in a little. We're all allies here.'

A bit of weariness crept in at the last request and it was intentionally roughly shoved into Eiru's mind as he idly watched the ferrets play. The flashes will be nit-picked apart later.

 

[TeaMMatE11]

Sapphire Lanse

She groaned loudly when she heard Ymir's and Leo's voice.

"Can't a woman get a breakfast in peace?"

She turned around to Ymir. "I am NOT going with him," the blue haired huntress stated flatly as she pointed a finger at Leo. She gets up and orders her food while she mulled the request over. It has been a while since she's taken a job, but this isn't the party she wanted. She goes back to the table and sits down while she waits for the food to be cooked. "Let me have my breakfast in peace." She waved them to signal for them to go away.

Sylph Key of Stars

 

[Key of Stars]

Leonidas Hood
Location: Lantana Outer District​

"Can't a woman get a breakfast in peace?" Leonidas fully turned back to Sapphire and clapped his hands once. "Excellent question, I was wondering basically the same thing not even thirty minutes ago but-" He used his thumb to point behind him. "Ymir had other plans and once she has an idea you're better off just going with it." He stated, taking out a coin from the pocket of his jacket and tossing it up a few times. "No but seriously though, she is not going to stop asking until you agree."

"I am NOT going with him," Leonidas chuckled. "Don't worry, I get it," He responded rolling the coin across his knuckles. "After all, gold quests are tricky business. I can't exactly blame you for being scared." Leonidas flashed her a smirk as he caught the coin he tossed up one more time and pocketed it.

"Let me have my breakfast in peace." Leonidas gave her a mock salute. "Understood, we'll let you enjoy your breakfast... Here in the city... far away from all the scary and dangerous things." With that, he turned around and clapped Ymir on the shoulder. "Come on let's go, we can't force her to go on a quest if she's afraid."

And if I end up dead in a ditch for this stunt at least you can't say I haven't tried my best at getting her to join us. He added mentally.
Sylph TeaMMatE11

 

[Sylph]

Azalea Gibraltar
Location: Guild Hall​

Just as the shadow hound departed, dissipating into wisps of smoke, another adventurer entered the hall. He stood taller than most, skin covered with dark, obsidian like plating.

"Volcanic soil, for your garden" Tuur said, approaching her desk to set down two overlarge bags. "The land is toxic to most. No sign of the missing adventurers, and no trace of any lich."

That was... concerning, but with no threat there was no quest. Azalea touched one of the bags of volcanic earth, smiling grimly. "I see. Thank you, Tuur."

She noticed one of the other staff, Elias, passing through on his way back to the kitchen. Dark haired and mild-mannered, he was well liked by most the guild--being a cook only added to his popularity. He was often first through the doors in the morning, happy to make breakfast for the staff before the day started in earnest, and that made a world of difference when the madness of the day began.

"Elias," she said, calling him over. It was a busy morning, certainly, but not as hectic as the day previous. "A moment of your time. Tuur here just returned from a mission, and Lynx is a new member of the guild starting today. They're both probably in a need of a meal before they go off anywhere." Azalea gestured to both the Magmur and the human male in turn. Standing together, taller than most and with inscrutable, heavyset expressions, they were actually quite intimidating. "Lynx, this is Elias, one of our best cooks. He knows the menu better than I do, and can cater to all different tastes."

Smiling, she asked Elias more directly, "Is everything well back there? Please let me know if the stocks are getting low."
Plannit Minma Vagabond Spectre

 

[Sylph]

Tyron Avattica
Location: Guild Hall​

"Sounds like a plan. Though on the topic of information, what was that stone you used earlier? Can't say I've ever seen something like that in Aestir at the least." Tyron's gaze was fixed on the hazy structure in the distance, but he turned upon Kira's words.

"The waystone?" he said. Opening the satchel at his side he pulled out the decently sized stone, turning it over in his hand. The marking on the top resembled dull iron in colour, though the edges were illuminated by the magic inlaid into it. After considering it for a moment he tossed the stone in the air. "It's peddlers magic, for all I care. Arcane nonsense." When it could teleport armies, then he might start caring. Catching the rock he threw it Kira's way. "Everyone in the guild has one. Except you, apparently." Since that damn clerk can't do her job.

He turned to the outpost, unaware of whether she managed to catch it or not. The land was like ashen gravel under his feet as he started forwards. A decrepit corpse of what had once been fertile land. "I don't care much for the arcane house's business, but most magic like it is tied to a central source. That witch would probably know, if you could stand to hear her talk about it for hours on end."

Tyron continued to speak as they made towards their objective, his voice low, though it lost none of its derisiveness. He was aware of Kira following close behind, the sound of their footsteps marching together. It seemed to be the only natural sound in a realm of decaying howls, though he froze as something seemed to crunch nearby, and the blades nearly slipped out of their sheaths. After a terse moment nothing came of it. Nothing more than shadows.

"Stay on your guard, Voland," he said. Not that anyone couldn't be in such an environment. "Any number of enemies could inhabit this realm, not just the undead."

Regardless, it was a deal of time before anything else disturbed the deathly quiet forest. They had made progress towards the outpost, its distant walls discernible from the otherwise shapeless mass of spikes, but when a rustle disturbed the brittle undergrowth they both froze in their tracks. It followed the low chatter and snuff of some kind of creature. Tyron's sword was half out of its sheath, his red eyes narrowed in anticipation.

Then the thing burst into view, and their hostility seemed a tad ridiculous. It let out an excited chatter and scampered to a stop in front of them. Large, friendly eyes stared up, and Tyron blinked several times as if to clear his vision.

"...a ferret?" he said eventually.
Zufaix Vol Uasal

 

[Vagabond Spectre]

Elias Allard
​

Halfway through the hall was only then he was noticed by one of the guild's higher ups, Azalea despite his efforts. It was not his system to be a rude man, starting by turning his face to his caller. His eyes calm as the morning dusk followed with his standard facial expression. It was only a few more steps into the kitchen but he halts his march to the Guild scribe. She was one of the more memorable faces in his memory and her professionalism was something he admires and aspires to be. When she calls his names, he always answers.

"Madam! Lovely morning to you."​

Edging in closer to her to minimize the awkwardness between talking distance. He never failed to notice the current companions Azalea accompanies, one another familiar face and a absolute new one. It was a busy morning but comparing to yesterday is nothing in comparison.

"Yes?"

"Oh, we have a new member? Welcome to the guild. The pots are warming as we speak, sit down for awhile and i'll get you both something nice." ​

Inviting the two to sit in the dining hall for a breakfast. Gesturing only with his half filled mug towards the kitchen with a smile as warm as the milk he drinks. His eyes made contact with those of Lynx's eyes speaking to the new member with a greeting as a follow up on Azalea's introduction to him. She already introduced him perfectly as if she took the words out of his mouth. He can't help but only smile.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, sire. Please tell me if you like something you want prepared."

"I can gladly say yes. Another week at least, a restock will have to be done again. I'm not quite fond of using the stored emergency goods in case that resources have actually became scarce, you know?"​

Followed with a chuckle. As one was noticed so far. Elias has a surprisingly deep voice that doesn't quite in match of his face. It was a soft advisory kind of tone. To the first timers hearing his voice may surprise them but to those in the guild, it's quite a distinct tone even when mixed in a crowd. Some may even say it's forced but quite the opposite in reality. Looking towards the scaly stoned guild member Tuur and raised a pint towards them as an invite to the dining hall feeling like Tuur did not feel as invited as the new member. Returning back to Azalea, he returned a question.

"What about you, Madam? Have you ate yet?"​

Plannit Minma Sylph

 

[Uasal]

Eiru Eagna
Gold Rank Support
Location: Outpost Gates​

Eiru was happy to see Zion appear at the gates alongside two furry little creatures obviously familiar sealed. When Zion made note of the fact Eiru hadn't departed without him she bore forth a huge grin seemingly bemused by the fact he thought she could ever travel alone in such a hostile environment. When Zion however pushed the thought of her being a burden into her own mind her grin slowly warped to a pout. Eiru had already moved to pick up one of the furry familiars, rubbing it softly as it rested upon her arm. Her over the top pout combined with her petting of the familiar was then accompanied by a sullen response "Anyone who cannot appreciate the magic I've spent hundreds of years reviving through study is no ally of mine, especially if they call it new-fangled. Honestly, it's not even new! The hint is in its very name! What a brute! HMPH'

Crouching down to the ground Eiru let the familiar jump back to the soft ground and after a few seconds, she outstretched her hand to the creature allowing it to lick at her fingertips with a soft giggle. Clearly bemused by the creature Eiru continued to allow it to lick away at her fingertips as she spoke to her companion, spirits clearly brightening and eyes aglow with magic. "Did you know familiar magic is actually a form of magic that originated from the summoning school? It's really quite a beautiful form of magic construct. The mage who created this magic took what was then known of summoning and the contract magic involved in such an act and then in a roundabout yet creative way morphed it to apply a contract of binding to a creature one had 'broken' be they summoned or not. There's a lot more to the concept but a familiar is really just an altered summoning thrall if you really get down to the basics. It's so complex yet oh so simple, truly a work of art. Unfortunately, familiar magic can also be applied in very dark and twisted ways, it's actually the foundation of slaving magic. Not many make that connection. But alas, most people think both magics come from contact magic, but as I've said... It's summoning magic at its core altered by contract amendment."

Looking up at the battlemage Eiru shot him a soft smile "Sorry, you probably don't want to hear my thoughts on the matter. It's hard to explain simply anyway so let's move on. I can have this little fellow track our runaways. His senses are quite precise, he shouldn't have a problem finding our duo." And with that Eiru returned to face the small creature and with magic swirling from her fingertips the small creature was fed whatever mana it needed to accomplish its new goal. "Guide me to my lost allies, be they to or fro. I need not know where the wind may blow nor need I take it slow." And with that command the small creature was off in a bolt, Eiru following swiftly behind.

Sylph Vol Zufaix

 

[Sylph]

Azalea Gibraltar
Location: Guild Hall​

"I can gladly say yes. Another week at least, a restock will have to be done again. I'm not quite fond of using the stored emergency goods in case that resources have actually became scarce, you know?"

"Of course," Azalea said. All it took was one bad harvest and with the amount the adventurers ate, supplies would be gone in no time.

"What about you, Madam? Have you ate yet?"

"I am alright, Elias, thank you." She smiled at the offer, though her mind wandered. She wasn't sure when she'd gone from being called 'miss' to 'madam' by those around her. Whether it was decided by age or if she demanded it in her bearing. Of course she knew there was no going back to earlier days. She could only do her best to make use of what time she had moving forwards, and--

Azalea took a sharp breath, gripping her shawl as something twisted. A biting ache in her chest that subsided after a tense eternity, though it remained present enough for her to notice. The scribe closed her eyes, straightening before long as she smoothed her brow of its furrow.

"...on second thought, I may have something simple." she said to Elias. Easing her hand off her shoulder to set it against the desk. She would never tell the cook, but her sense of taste had been one of the first things to disappear. She was no longer delighted by exquisite meals, just as she was no longer bothered by the title others addressed her with. "I don't mind what," Azalea continued, realising she should be more specific. "Just as long as it's warm, I'll be fine."
Vagabond Spectre

 

[Vol]

THE HAUNTING GROUNDS
Location: Outpost Gates -> Outpost Outskirts
Interactions: Eiru Eagna Uasal / Tyron Avattica Sylph / Kira Voland Zufaix
Honourable mentions: Angora Guile
Quest: Rescue Mission
Reward: 2000 coins​

He let Eiru's snarky comments about the commander pass. Although he respected Angora and her position from what little time he had with her, he held no obligation to protect her name -- as if she really needed it anyway. Regardless it was an argument that could be dusted off like lint on one's coat, or so he hoped for Eiru's sake.

... ... ... ...

Zion really had no time to think for himself, especially when he felt the space where a brain should be be filled with information nobody clearly asked for. At one point during her ramble, the battlemage had raised a hand to his the side of his mask -- his soulmatter ached with trying to keep up with her.

"Sorry, you probably don't want to hear my thoughts on the matter. It's hard to explain simply anyway so let's move on. I can have this little fellow track our runaways. His senses are quite precise, he shouldn't have a problem finding our duo."

'Well. Still, warn me next time before your next tangent, missus Eagna.' Zion let his hand fall back down to his side as his masked visage returned a blank slated stare to her soft smile. 'Magic's a malleable thing, no wonder talented mages can find ways to try and make it more convenient. Whether for better or for worse, I suppose.'

He paused, the next thoughts felt gentler, contemplative.
'You've just explained something I find very interesting. If things go well, I might need to take more of your time after this mission.'

Zion used a branch of summoning though he couldn't summon creatures. He hadn't thought of trying actually, but he'd rather stick to something he did know for certain for now.

The undead battlemage perked up when the enchantress sent the familiars on their way, and with a nod towards Eiru, he followed after them. At first his brisk walking pace was enough, but eventually he had to ease up to a jog to keep up with the flying witch and familiars. Into the dying woods of this ashen wasteland.
The forest had the similar aura of looming death and exhaustion back in the wooden fortress, but this time it seemed to be coming from every dried-up leaf and suffering gnarled bark. This land really was for the desolate and the dead -- it was a shame it could not find peace.

Zion tilted his head at the disappearance of one of the familiars and he slightly swerved to the right before pushing aside thick brush of dark bush where he thought he spied the thing.

!

His arm grappled at air and he tried to pull it back. It didn't budge. A whistling noise snaked underneath his mask as he pushed aside the brush to get a better view of what the hell he got his arm stuck in. A tree that had tangled in on itself in a shape of helix had a strangely convenient space for something to get trapped between. Though the sight of such a unique tree was something else, he did not expect to see their temporarily missing "charges" just ahead.

Zion's gaze drifted from his trapped arm then to Tyron and Kira, before offering a little wave in greeting at the two. As if they all just met during a leisurely stroll.

'Sorry, give me a second.' He communicated to Kira rather than to the princeling, as he did say he would only thoughtspeak to him if necessary. But also because he would rather not with him right now.
Zion repositioned his arm in a way he thought he would be able to pry it free and tested it. A rattle of the bark but it didn't give up his arm.
Okay. Well this wouldn't exactly be the first time but he hoped it wouldn't be too out of place if he -- a sudden crack of bone around his shoulder joint was heard and the arm easily slipped off the space.

'The ferrets.' The undead adventurer casually switched from Kira to Tyron, as this time this was necessary information. It was a shame he couldn't establish such telepathy with more than one mind...atleast Eiru was there to be verbose about it. 'Familiars. They'll lead us to the camp where the scouts are supposedly kept. Also helped us find you, whether you liked it or not.' He added the last part as a subtle warning, as if to say 'you try that shit again, I'm going to let these ferrets sniff your ass out.' but in a polite way.

'Glad to see you've made it safe.' Zion quickly added to Kira, but nodded in the general direction to both as he re-connected his arm to it's socket.

 

[Sylph]

Ymir
Location: Outer Lantana --> Guild Path
Mentions: Key of Stars TeaMMatE11 Plannit​

"Excellent question, I was wondering basically the same thing not even thirty minutes ago but-" Ymir glanced over as she was pointed at. "Ymir had other plans and once she has an idea you're better off just going with it. Seriously, she is not going to stop asking until you agree."

Hah, well he wasn't wrong. She was pretty good at getting her way, though certain individuals were harder to pester than others--one of which who stood in front of her. Turning back to her old nemesis, Ymir awaited his response, though she grew distracted as Leo continued to address Sapphire.

"Don't worry, I get it. After all, gold quests are tricky business."

That they were. It took a lot for a quest to be marked as gold. Ymir had gained a feel for the rankings in her time at the guild. Tasks that didn't include fighting per se were usually copper. From there the ranking increased with the known level of the threats. Gold quests were outright terrifying, but they were always in such interesting places...

"-I can't exactly blame you for being scared."

Scared? Sapphy? Oh.

Ohhh.

Ymir stilled, inclining her head as her gaze strayed again. So he was playing that game. Brave, very brave, he certainly didn't shy away from gold rank enemies. "Understood, we'll let you enjoy your breakfast... Here in the city... far away from all the scary and dangerous things."

She straightened as his hand fell onto her shoulder, leaning back to consider Sapphire's reaction. Ymir's smile faltered upon seeing their expression.

"Come on let's go, we can't force her to go on a quest if she's afraid."

And there's the final nail in the coffin. Ymir turned back to Cerus, smiling enigmatically.

"Ahahahah, well, great seeing you again and all.." Grabbing the side of Leo's collar she pulled him after her. Every adventurer had a break point, and Ymir did not intend to stick around to see Sapphire's get crossed. Gold ranks were gold ranked for a reason, and most of the time it was because they could beat the tar out of creatures a great deal stronger than them. "Places to be. Stuff to do, things to live for--" She continued, half addressing the noble, half muttering to herself as she dragged Leo away. "Anyway, you know how it is! Adios, tally-ho, see you in the next world 'n all-"

Let's go. Releasing Leo she started briskly towards the guild again. They definitely hadn't succeeded in the original plan, but the least they could do was make it back in one piece. "New plan, we're finding someone different."

Tyron Avattica
Location: Solmar Region
Mentions: Zufaix Uasal Vol​

Tyron had tensed when a gloved hand had shoved through the brambles after the ferret, the underbrush being pulled aside to reveal a familiar hood and mask. The witch hovered on her broom behind them. You people again?

Tyron's half-drawn blade slid back into place, though his hand jumped back to it as he heard a sickening crack near the cloaked adventurer. What in the blazes was that-

The arm disappeared from the underbrush, and the adventurer stepped around the thick brambles into the small clearing. The iron mask turned from Kira to Tyron, who winced as he felt the words shoved into his head. He very much regretted not practicing mind fortification when he had the chance in the academy. Having someone in his head was unpleasant to say the least. He'd have to revisit his old professor at the academy.

'The ferrets. Familiars. They'll lead us to the camp where the scouts are supposedly kept. Also helped us find you, whether you liked it or not.'

Well that answered a few questions. Tyron glared as one of the ferrets as it scampered closer, gaze acidic if to say this is your fault. The creature hissed and ran to Kira instead, weaving between her legs and nudging her calves as it tried to get up onto her shoulder.

"Accompany us if you wish," Tyron said. As far as he heard, that meant they'd be following where he went. Vexing, but not unusual. "Just ensure the witch holds her tongue, lest she attract half the peninsula with her constant natter."

 

[TeaMMatE11]

Sapphire Lanse

As soon as she heard Leonidas taunt her, she stood up, her eyes piercing his sould. as Ymir dragged him away and was almost clear, Saph somehow caught up to them at blinding speed and slammed into the poor bard's side, laying him flat on the street. She drew her longsword and looked down at him, putting her boot on his chest. "Don't. You. Dare. Mock. Me. Again." She looked as if she was going to kill him, just to get him scared. She sheathed the sword effortlessly and walked back to the table she originally was at.

Sylph Key of Stars

 

[Key of Stars]

Leonidas Hood
Location: Lantana Outer District > Guild Hall
Mentions: Sylph TeaMMatE11 ​

Leonidas happily nodded along when Ymir said her goodbyes, putting up close to no resistance when she eventually pulled him away by his collar.

"New plan, we're finding someone different." Leonidas nodded once again. “That sounds like an infinitely better plan than trying to get her to come along, seriously what is-“ His words died in his throat as he felt something slamming into his side. He was just barely able to slightly cushion his fall with air magic only for his back to be roughly pressed back down against the ground by Sapphire's boot on his chest. He looked up at the blue haired hunter trying to ignore the sword which was held awfully close to his neck. "Ah come on now, don't be like that. Maybe-"

His sentence was once again cut short as Sapphire pushed her boot down with more force. "Don't. You. Dare. Mock. Me. Again." She hissed, emphasizing every single word individually. "Ow, okay yea I get it, I get it." Leonidas answered.

After Sapphire sheathed the sword and walked away Leonidas slowly sat up, Scary. He looked up at Ymir as he pushed himself back up to his feet. "Well then, that went about half as well as I expected it would go." He wiped some of the bigger spots of dirt off of his jacket before sighing. "My hair is probably a mess now." He muttered, resuming his walk towards the guild hall together with Ymir.

Leonidas pushed open the doors to the guild hall and looked back at Ymir. "So what's the plan now? I don't think there is any other gold ranked guild member available. Want to just take a silver quest instead?" He asked, belatedly realizing that he had forgotten to snap his fingers upon entering. Figuring it was too late now anyway he just shook his head slightly.

Klein Eshwald
Location: Lantana Outer District
Mentions: TeaMMatE11​

Klein had opted for taking a small detour on his way to the guild, strolling along the city streets with his silver cane in hand. When he walked past a small cafe he paused, someone having caught his attention. "Sapphire, good morning." He started, waving slightly with his cane. "It is rather unusual to see you at this hour of the day. I was under the assumption you were still on a quest, when did you get back?"

He adjusted the golden trimmed glasses he was currently wearing and pointed to the chair on the opposite side of the table Sapphire was seated at. "May I?"

He continued talking while standing, not wanting to take a seat before she had given him permission. "Forgive me for asking but you seem a little annoyed. Has something happened in the past week I wasn't able to come to the guild?"

For the past 7 days, Klein had been away on an assassination mission. Since he joined the guild he no longer accepted money for assassinations or spy missions but he would still occasionally carry one out on his own accord when he deemed someone extremely corrupt. The assassination had gone smoothly and Klein had managed to make it look like the secretary of his target was the true culprit but he had still needed 7 days to figure out the security situation of the mansion and to confirm if the secretary himself was corrupt enough to blame the murder on. Thinking back on it, Klein softly tapped the bottom of his cane on the street while waiting for Sapphire to answer.

 

[-ferret-]

Mazus Brownberry
Location: Guild hall
Mentions: Key of Stars and Sylph u
As a new member of the guild, Mazus was nervous. She hated being the new girl, and since leaving her home clan two years ago, she had been the new girl a lot. There were so many people, so many quests, and so little time. Even though she was nervous, she was excited too. New faces and adventure. She was also excited about the coin reward for the quests.
Walking into the guild, she saw two other people talking and walking together. She supposed it was time to make friends and maybe go on quests together.

"Hi!" she waved with a clawed hand to a black haired man and a white haired woman. "My name is Mazus. I'm new!"

She stuck out her hand to shake and swished her tail behind her, an ear flicking to and fro.

 

[Vagabond Spectre]

Elias Allard
Location: Guildhall ---> Dining area​

As the conversations and faces pass by. He found himself standing face to face with Azalea again. The calmness of the conversation also gave him time to think about the serving this morning as he is planning to expand the breakfast choices and so on, like the past month before. After all, some may find being fed the same meal is not something they will tolerate. He couldn't seem to place his finger on what to add next. He may have to survey for suggestions for this one.

"Lovely morning we are having. Have you eaten yet, ma'am?"​

In between mid-conversation. Another guild member has arrived to speak to the scribe. Giving them a moment to speak before also inviting them over the guild tables for a hearty meal followed by the same inviting gesture he had with the others before. Motioning his pint towards the dining hall without spilling a single drop of his drink onto the floor.

"...Hmm..."

" I think I have something prepared in the kitchen that you may like, Ms. Azalea. If I may ask, do you like seafood? I have a new seafood dish that you may like as breakfast."​

Expecting that she'd come around eventually. Elias wasn't too surprised by the reply given. It's not his first time hearing quotes like such. "Surprise me!" and "As long as I can eat it" are some of the uncommon ones he's heard. With little specifications given, he could only take a shot in the dark at this point. Simply chuckling to Azalea to lighten the mood. He cannot remember the consistent diet of each and every single Guild member but what he does remember is a crab dish that he has been trying to perfect among the default breakfast choices and maybe perhaps serving Azalea some may give him some criticism where he could improve it.

Finishing the rest of his warm milk. He would automatically head down to the kitchen to serve the other members their breakfast after this conversation.

Sylph