Fantasy World of Gea: The Greatest Adventure [IC] [CLOSED]

[Elenion Aura]

Another moment and the dagger would’ve been at the half-Cobold’s throat… Save for an uncanny intervention…

Quieten the storm of your mind, Cal.

From somewhere within him, a voice had arisen.

Instantly, he did as he was bade. Calocis dropped the tension from his shoulders, letting his noticeably empty hands fall by his sides. Though he could not shake the look of pure, white-hot loathing from his gaze as he leered at the ill-formed chimera before him.

“…”

This creature was clearly an imbecile. He almost pitied its existence… Yes. Killing it would be a mercy. A mercy, undeserved.

At least, not here. Not now. Not with so many eyes upon them. Patience.

There would be other times, darker times… Food and drink left untended… Saddles and girdles left loosened as the company traversed o’er precarious rock faces… So many accidents awaited them on the road.

No one would miss you, Cal thought. Save, perhaps, one. He turned then toward the Witch as she arrived.

“You would do well to keep your mongrel on a leash.” He said and showed her the blackened spot on his robe. The damage, upon closer inspection, was minor. He’d gotten to it in time, thank the Dark One.

Anne Boolean
Zillamaster55

 

[Emperor Sagan]

Petro could smell the hint of smoke before he noticed the commotion across the way, where he spotted Calocis angrily stamping out the licks of a small flame on his robes. At first he wondered how the man had caught aflame without any open fire around, such as a campfire, which was always a dangerous source when long clothes were involved. The situation already looked to be under control even as he approached at a slight jog, knowing it did not seem to be an emergency but wanting to check on them regardless. The subsequent yelling between Cal and Ziggy seemed to indicate all he needed to know.

Cal looked understandably upset, though Petro was not keen to see the man reaching into his robes in the way he did, but as he joined them Cal already seemed... relaxed. A mental exercise, perhaps, like the ones he had been taught as a child when to ease away the anger and frustration. "Are you alright?" he asked the dark elf simply, before turning to look over the excited Ziggy. Petro struck a mildly perturbed pose as he placed his hands upon his hips and stared down at the half-cobold. "You must be responsible when playing with fire. It can be very dangerous and people can get burned, especially if you are doing so away from a stationary source. Have you apologized for startling Mister Calocis?"

Then, glancing back at Cal, Petro squinted down at the tarnished spot on his robes. "We can probably clean that up, good as new. It is in the nature of clothes to be damaged and then mended." He then sent a small look at Anija, hoping she could help defuse the tension.

 

[Anne Boolean]

"A... leash...?" Ziggy responded. His ears fell. This wasn't praise... leashes were for bad boys. But he wasn't bad... he casted a spell! He did magic! That was what he was supposed to do. It was what everyone said he couldn't do. So it could only be a good thing... right?

The newcomer, a minotaur who had introduced himself as Petro seemed to disagree as well. Once again instead of praise, Ziggy found himself being scolded, but thankfully this time it was with kinder words. "Apologize...?" he asked. "But I only set fire to the leaf..." A pensive look appeared on his face. "The grass under it was darker though... it was black instead of green, like..." He looked at Calocis's robe and his eyes widened as things seemed to click. With drooping ears and wide eyes, he looked up at the dark elf. "Oh jeez... I guess it really was my fault... I'm sorry..." he said, "I didn't mean to be a bad boy..."

Interactions: Cal ( Elenion Aura ), Petro ( Emperor Sagan ), Anija ( Zillamaster55 )

 

[EdwardDewey98]

Sorry for the long pause.​

In just a minute, there was already problem brewing amongst the new recruits as Ziggy lights Calocis' cape on fire and while the Dökkálfar showed incredible restrain, just looking into his eyes was enough for Alberto to know he was very close his breaking point. "Oh, Gaia..." he said before clapping and shouting, calling forth all the new people joining them. "Alright, listen up!" shouted the old man as Ziggy, Noradriia, Katarrik, the Cambion Trio and Anija approached him. "First and foremost, stop training in the open like this young man." he said to Ziggy, as the young half-Cobold continues to sulk over Calocis' words. "Now I would prefer to have more time for proper introductions here but we are on a tight schedule and we have to participate on a ceremony here in Waterham, we will explain about that to you later." He added while counting each one of you. "...Hey, wait a minute, who are you?" he said while pointing at four Qurai brothers and a sister standing behind the new recruits. "Sata srī akāla, Śrīmāna! We heard you are taking these folks into an adventure, we want to come, can we come, Śrīmāna?" said the sister while her brothers nodded. Alberto eyed the Qurai youths before sighing. "Diosa mia... yes, you can come, but let me tell you all this, we all do our share in the company, either by working on the camp or by helping lady Delafousse, we are not taking any lazy freebooters into our ranks, ya all got that right?" the Qurai youths nodded, everyone knew they had to do their share in the company.

• Ziggy, Noradriia, Olga, Volga, Holga, Anija, Katarrik and 5 Qurai Fighters join the company. •​

Alberto, ready to continue explaining how the company handles itself out in the wild, is interrupted by one of the Eranoiran fighters. "Oi, monsieur Alberto! Look who's coming!" said the warrior lady while pointing at the gates of Waterham. "Darn it, this morning sure is not going as planned!" said Alberto while looking at the approaching figure. A Hob, but taller when compared to the average Hob, accompanied by various other Hobs, most of them holding Waterhamerite Borgis while the well dressed Hob talked the the Sheriff, who was walking next to the dapper Hob.

​

"I fear that I will offend them if I said this to their face my dear but I sincerely cannot comprehend how can they live like this, in tents? surrounded by dirt? sounds like a terrible time if you ask me, my dear." said the Grand Mayor while the Sheriff rolled her eyes. He then approached Cécilia, who had just emerged from her tent after having that mood-changing conversation with Devereaux, the scholar looked down at the mayor, trying to force a smile to the man as he gives her a courteous bow. "Ah! Mademoiselle Delafousse, truly a shame! truly a shame that you are abandoning our fantastic burg to explore the savage north, my people had grown quite fond of the exotic nature of your company." Cécilia simply nodded, returning the courteous bow with a curtsy before speaking, sounding a bit more frustrated than normal. "Believe me, your honor, I'd love to stay and write more about Waterham, but the company needs to continue to explore the region, we will return at some point, after all, our travels will take us down south eventually."

"And we will be waiting on that day with bated breath, my dear lady! Now... we need to officialize this departure! Tell me, who were the ones that captured that sorry excuse of a mystic and who were the heroes that fought against those damnable cultists?" asked the mayor while looking throughout the camp. "Right, so... Abasi and Cassandra were the ones that stopped Belnach, but Korzhev and Petrocles were with them as well but we had to deal with another... problem... as for the cultists? it was a group effort really Sera, Calocis, Sentry and Gawain were the ones that killed the Chort, while Syllannan took down two voracious imps." Cécilia pointed at every member who was present during the fight, to which the mayor responded with a rather unnerved look. "...Oh dear, no disrespect to your... "friendly" creatures, but during the ceremony, could we put them in the back?" Cécilia's gaze slowly shifted from her company to the Grand Mayor. "I... I beg your pardon?" she asked in complete and utter disbelief. "Yes, the undead creature... and the animals on two legs, the cow and the frog. We don't want to scare the young ones now do w-" the mayor suddenly stops, as the face of the scholar becomes visibly red. "...I am afraid, your honor, that you misunderstood me." Cécilia was visibly angry, but tried her best to calm herself. "They have helped a lot, all of them, and if anyone is deserving of the recognition for saving Waterham, it is THEM."

"R-Right... again, I meant no offense, my lady! Sorry if it sounded like I was trying to disre-" "Mayor... sire, I'll tell lady Delafousse where to head to, please... go back to the town" interjected the Sheriff, who had become much more friendly to the company after that frightful first day. "R-Right... again, my apologies, madame Delafousse." said the mayor, giving Cécilia another courteous bow before departing with his entourage of dog caretakers and other staff. "...Don't mind the Grand Mayor, he's a northern district knobhead who thinks he knows better than the rest of us just because he speaks all posh and fancy, I hate 'em dandies with their bloody Eranoiran perfumes and Hamalan textbooks, bah!" The Sheriff gave the scholar a friendly pat on the hip, which helped Cécilia calm down a bit more, she looked at the mayor as he walked away. "Thank you, Sheriff, for intervening, if I heard another false apology from him I might have slapped him in the face." said Cécilia, while looking down at the Sheriff, who gave her yet another friendly tap. "Ye and the big lads and lasses that helped ya should go to St. Berthana's Plaza in... uh, a bit before the sun it's at it's peak." said the mature Hob woman while looking up at the sky. "In half an hour, got it. Thank you Sheriff... and if this is the last time we see each other in a while, it was a genuine honor to get to know you." The Sheriff looked up at Cécilia and rolled her eyes, before giving her a faint smile. "...take care out there, ye bunch of weird knobheads."

With that said, the Sheriff turned around, gave everyone in the company a respectful nod, and walked away back into the city. Upon seeing this, Alberto walked away from the latest recruits to ask Cécilia what's been discussed. "So... what we doing?" he asks while watching the new recruits, Cécilia is quick to answer. "Get the company to dress up properly, have some people carry the banners of the Scholar's Guild and wear your medals, we are heading there in half-an-hour and leave soon after, it's time to bid farewell to Waterham for good."

"Understood, madame." said the knight before shouting to the company. "EVERYONE! Finish packing up and get ready to march into Waterham again in a neat formation, clean your clothes with wet rags and shine your armor and blades! I know you lads and lasses are not army footmen but let's do it like we practiced a few days ago!" Paulin, who had stood in silence as nerveous Sera looked at him, sighed, giving the disguised dragon a friendly smile. "A topic, huh? Well, I'll think about that... but let's talk more later, looks like we are in a bit of a hurry now." He said before walking away, thinking in Sera's suggestion a bit. "Come on people! Look alive!" shouted Alberto while walking towards the newbies. "Sorry folks, looks like the welcoming speech will have to wait since we did some heroic things here in town, you see, so now they are giving us a farewell parade." He gave every new member a careful look before grinning. "Like I told the others, try to look clean at the very least. I'll see you all in a bit... in the mean time, POT! WAYLOND! GET MY BREASTPLATE STRECHER!"

Minutes passed and the company quickly gathered everything they needed while the caravan waited with a few while the others prepared to enter the city. Everyone had done their best to look presentable and organized and luckily, most had succeeded and the company looked like a proper expeditionary force for once. "Alright folks, I want to see some smiles in there! it's our last day in Waterham and they have warmed up towards us a lot, they fed us and took care of us for helping them, let's not forget that!" The company started to hear celebratory music coming from the city. "That's our cue!" said Cécilia before walking ahead towards the opened gates

• Waterham, St. Berthana's Plaza •

​

The streets of Waterham were bustling with life as the Waterhamerites gathered around the company as they marched towards St. Berthana's Plaza, most of them were thanking the company for killing the demon, a few were thankful for stopping Belnach and his "heathen ways". Some members of the company even received gifts such as large hams, sausages, giant onions, tomatos and entire loafs of freshly baked bread - This warm and happy departure celebration contrasted harshly with the cold and indifferent welcoming received the first day. After walking through Grand Mayor Yosemiah Street, the company was welcomed and escorted by a group of constables and among them were the constables that had helped the company fight the demons, Sandra and Bolby. The further they went down the street, the more decorated they become as they are covered with banners and triangle flag lines hanging between poles.

"I haven't seen a celebration like this in YEARS!" said Cassandra, who emerged from Sentry's hair. "I bet this will give the mayor a few extra votes in the next elections, hm?" suggested Cécilia with a grin on her face. "Oh, definitely! Nothing earns more the respect of the working class than celebration, anything to enjoy a day off from toiling away at the farms." When the company finally arrived the plaza, they watched a large conglomeration of Hobs and a few humans gathered around the statue of St. Berthana, a large stage sat right in front of it. "...Alright, here's the deal everyone. Sera, Sentry, Gawain and Calocis... you guys follow me into the stage, I imagine they want us to say something... uhm, I will talk but it'd be nice if one of you guys talked as well, give them a nice parting speech before we finally leave this place."

Interactions: Calocis, Gawain, Sentry, Gsera.

 

[Anne Boolean]

The half-Cobold's ears flattened once more with the next bit of scolding from Alberto. He thought practicing was a good thing, but this group obviously had issues with his actions. Maybe they were just like the magicians back home, wanting him to give up. The thought made him wish he could have stayed with the Qurai.

His ears shot up when he could feel a newcomer's presence. This was confirmed by a woman pointing in the direction he was already looking in. A group of Hobs approached, which would have been exciting enough for Ziggy, but many of them were also holding dogs! Without a word, the half-Cobold ran over to one of them, eagerly trying to play with the animal. He then moved on to the next, and the next, and at some point during his greetings of all the dogs, he had transformed into his fully canine form and started playing with the dogs as if he was one of them.

Sadly, eventually the men and the dogs were taken away, leaving a disappointed Ziggy to transform back into his half-Cobold state. He returned to the group, once again still in the nude, and his tail started wagging when Alberto mentioned the group's heroism.

"Really?!" he asked with a sparkle in his eyes. "What happened?! What did you all do?!"

Before he could get an answer though, he found himself being cleaned up and forced into his garments once more. It wasn't long after that that they entered the city. The half-Cobold walked with the others during the celebration, his attention being taken by pretty things he saw here and there. Thankfully, whenever he started to waver from the path, someone pulled him back. He also ended up being handed gifts, vegetables, meat, fruits... all sorts of things. He wasn't sure what they were for but happily ate them anyway.

 

[joshuadim]

Their conversation cut short by the sudden announcement of festivities, among other things, Gsera watched Paulin walk off before she herself went to get prepared. Taking the time to quickly clean her face as well as dust off her armor a bit she then looked at herself in a small mirror and pondered her appearance. She looked presentable for the time being as she gave herself a reassuring nod before heading off to join the rest of the company. As they marched through Waterham, the ddraig couldn't help but smile and wave to the crowd while walking down the main street towards the plaza. She had even been inundated with gifts from some of the townfolk as she carried a large loaf of fresh bread that smelled divine as well as a few other articles of food and by the time they had arrived towards the plaza she was beginning to struggle holding it all in her hands.

Although it was a bit too much for her, she couldn't feel annoyed at the generosity shown by the people but finally managed to get the gifts she received set down onto the lone wagon that accompanied them. She would enjoy the gifts she had received later as she was called upon by Cecilia which diverted her full attention. When it was made evident she was to go directly on stage and to speak along with those that helped against the Chort she began to stew in anxiety. Speaking to large crowds... was definitely not in her comfort zone. Especially since she was trying to blend in, rather than stand out. The druid was also made uncomfortable at the idea that she would have to share a stage with both Gawain, a necromancer she had no desire to show admiration for in any way, as well as Calocis who worshipped the same god the very cultists that had bashed her over the head with and threatened not only her but her good friends.

Then again, Cecilia was right... it would be nice if someone did say something. If it had to be out of the four of them on stage, then perhaps she would have to speak up... if she could muster the courage for what appeared to her a daunting task. "Uhm... w-well... maybe I can say something." Gsera managed to get out in a meek manner as she looked at the crowd in the plaza. She gulped nervously before scratching the back of her head, "Maybe I can talk about the griffons..."

 

[Beann]

Today was turning out to be better and better. First, a handful of new members were joining their company, all interesting in their own ways. Most notably the other Skæglin woman and the bard trio that spoke in an interesting fashion. Now, they were all to prepare themselves for the festivities that Waterham had to offer as thanks for dealing with a couple of thorns in their sides. Kastalli wasted no time in cleaning herself up, making sure to scrub out some dirt patches on her clothes with a wet rag. She also took the time to comb out a few knots in her long hair. Granted, it would have taken quite a while to ensure it was completely free of tangles so she did her best with the time that was available to her. With the help of Sera( joshuadim ) , she decided to even change her hairstyle for this occasion! Rather than defaulting to letting her hair down free with the two braids in front, she had her friend braid her long, white hair entirely to form a unified braid down the back. It certainly felt a bit weird changing up the hair style but it looked cute!

When the company was finally ready to march into Waterham, they were immediately met with the lively folks. They cheered, and danced, and sang, many of them handing them gifts of assorted food and flowers. It certainly lifted Kastalli's spirits being in the heart of this celebration! She acquired a wreath of beautiful flowers woven together with care. Without a second thought, she cheerfully skipped her way over to Calocis( Elenion Aura ) and carefully put the wreath around his neck so as to not alarm him. "I am so delighted to share this celebration with you, Calocis! I can not thank you enough for your kind actions on that dreadful night. Had it not been for you, I do not think I would have the chance to enjoy this wonderful day!" With a bright grin, she twirled around him once before skipping off to rejoin her other friends.

She continued receiving gifts, occasionally slowing her pace a bit to eat some of the bread and meat they offered. It was all so delicious! Kastalli caught a glance of Ziggy( Anne Boolean ) doing the same as well, enjoying the food that was given to him. With her last food item in hand, a link of sausages, she happily draped the food around his neck. "Try these, they taste delightful!" From there, she squeezed her way past a few company members and found herself at Syllannan's( Roda the Red ) side. Sera's words from earlier burned at the back of her mind, causing her to blush slightly the more she thought about it. Kastalli wasn't one to get easily flustered or be nervous, but she did hesitate a bit when she grabbed his hand to hold. "This reminds me of when we departed from Eran, no?"

 

[Dmaster]

Gawain strode about the celebration with his hands behind his back, looking to the festivities with a rather curious gaze. Even if they may have possibly saved the community in various ways, he could not help but feel that such an outstanding display was a bit excessive. Though he was a bit biased, not ever really being one to mingle and take the time to experience such an atmosphere of excitement and praise. On his list of annoyances this kind of thing was far lower ranked than being called an undead freak for the thirtieth time, though.

His thinking was halted when a comically large tomato was gently thrust onto his chest, the skull-faced caster having to put his hands out to hold the vegetable in his grasp to avoid causing a terrible mess. "Er, thank you but I don't ea- Oh they've left already." Gawain grumbled, looking like an absolute fool carrying this giant onion. With so many Hobs watching him he could not risk looking like an insensitive ingrate by laying it down somewhere on the street.

He got his chance when they approached the stage, as there was a barrel that was just close enough to the steps that he laid the massive thing on before he prepared to move up the steps. When Cécilia suggested that one of them speak alongside her, Gawain nodded his head a few times while he crossed his arms over his chest. "Well I would be happy to address the public, if you think it wise." he starts, soon turning his head to Sera as she had the confidence of a mouse about her. "You can say whatever you like so long as you do not die of fright, I am sure. Would be a shame given the work we've done to prevent the cult from killing you."

 

[joshuadim]

Gawain's comment caught Gsera off guard regarding her nervousness and immediately became flustered at the idea of being mocked for something she had no control over. "Just because you're dead doesn't mean you can be a bundún!" the ddraig replied angrily, clearly offended. "Not everyone c-can speak to a crowd well!" she then said, pointing a finger directly at the necromancer, "But just for that, I'm going to speak as best as I can!"

 

[Dmaster]

"Now, now. I am only partially dead I think." the undead wizard corrected while he spread his hands and let out a hollow chuckle as he was insulted. Gsera taking his commentary as a challenge was not expected though it was a welcome surprise. "And who ever said that my motivational methods don't work?" Gawain asked openly, looking to the others before he gave a dismissive wave. "Bah. Do your best and do not embarrass yourself. Things will work out. I can probably say a thing or two after."

 

[Roda the Red]

As active as the day already was at this early time, it was still scheduled for plenty of things to do, and as Alberto communicated to everyone, it was now time to finish packing things up and prepare for the celebration. Syll took care of the last few crates he was tasked to place on the carriages and thought about Alberto's words, about looking presentable: His hair looked nice as Sera stylized it nearly earlier this morning, and as for his garments, there clearly wasn't anything crude of his clothes... right?

A few minutes later, the company had arrived into the city, and before he could realize, the elf found himself surrounded by a specially loud and jovial Waterham, with folks on the streets celebrating as far as the eye could see. A few were also generous enough to hand over various local delicacies which Syll could not help but to snack on, specially some smoked jerky which was to die for. Overall, he couldn't help but feel really moved by the contrast between their initial arrival and now, not even in his first few visits in the past did he see the place in such high spirits.

Just as his mind drifted off to many other tangents, Syll tensed up slightly as he felt someone grabbing his hand, he quickly turned his gaze to his right, and relaxed after noticing it was Kastalli... only to tense up once again. Why is she holding me hand, think quick Syll... oh right, she must be worried about us getting lost in the crowd, yeah that must be it, also bloody hell she looks splendid today-. After mentally slapping himself, he gently squeezed Kastalli's hand, implying he wouldn't let go of it.

"This reminds me of when we departed from Eran, no?"

"It really does, it seems that no matter where you go, there are always people who show gratitude to a helping hand, and i know that happened not long ago, but i really think we have come a long way as a group already." He stared at her again briefly, feeling slightly embarrassed.

"You look really good by the way...y-your hair i mean! it looks really nice... i-i mean it always looks nice but like, uh, it also looks graceful and refined and... sorry, i am not very good with compliments"

 

[Breadman]

"Lucky for you, I keep this armor clean and in shape at all times." Sentry said as she tapped the plates that covered her chest with a knuckle. "Same for Swifty and Pot over there." The knight and his squire briefly glanced at each other as they realized that they had to get the Waylond's armor parade ready in short order. Much to Pottrey's frustration. The bardic trio talked among themselves in rhyming whispers, figuring out what to do as they may be the center of attention for a wide audience.

The celebration was soon well underway as the expedition marched through the street being treated as heroes for their deeds. Waylond was in the front only following behind Alberto. The knight's armor was adored with a ceremonial coat with the sigil of his house now flowing freely on him and on the banner Pot was carrying. There haven't been many occasions to let the Yellow serpent on the black field fly, but when they could show their heraldry, Waylond would insist. Sentry would be found somewhere in the middle of things. She recognized the innkeeper and his wife among the crowd, his arm wrapped around her shoulders as they waved to her. Good for him that she didn't hold grudges towards people like them, otherwise the temptation to walk over and mess with him a little would have been too tempting. At one point the barbarian noticed Cassandra walking around and trying to get noticed.

"Oi, Cassie! Let me give you hand there." Hoisting the small woman like a toddler on her shoulders, the amazonian woman made sure to make her all the more visible. Not too far away the trio was busy playing their own instruments to the tune of the festival's own. No singing for now, but they were catching eyes towards them regardless as is their nature as bards. Volga turned to notice the young Syl strike up a conversation with Kastalli and squinted as she thought she saw him blushing and... holding hands. A slight smile formed on her lip as she turned to face forwards. Its good to see some love here and there and moments like those are what the three could use as inspiration for their songs.

...Alright, here's the deal everyone. Sera, Sentry, Gawain and Calocis... you guys follow me into the stage, I imagine they want us to say something... uhm, I will talk but it'd be nice if one of you guys talked as well, give them a nice parting speech before we finally leave this place.

"I can talk about the good pummeling we gave that overgrown bat." Sentry said as she still held Cassandra on her shoulders, her attention was turned towards the short exchange between Sera and Gawain "Go for it, lass. Show them what you're made of."

 

[Elenion Aura]

Calocis quietly stared at the singed hem of his cloak as the Mayor of Waterham—fool that he was—pontificated about ceremonies and farewells, neither of which concerned the Dökkálfar. He rarely made merry, and he'd sooner never see this damnable shantytown nor its halfwitted inhabitants again than spend another night camping beyond its walls. Even so, he took the time they were allotted to cleanse body, mind, and cloth before the company appeared before the people.

He'd drawn up his cowl, hooding his face from the onlookers and concealing his hands, clasped one over the other, behind the fold of his mantle, having had enough of their gawking at his complexion. He kept his eyes forward, and refused the gifts handed him. Luckily one member or another nearby would accept that which he'd ignored... Why wear the guise of kinship with this rabble when today marked their parting? Yet another peculiar quirk of the surface that he failed to comprehend. Foolish.

And then something happened that Cal had not expected... He had been distracted, looking away toward some far, distant future... Or perhaps the past... When he felt the cowl slip away from over his head, felt an unfamiliar tingling of something being draped over his neck.

He looked back to see her.

“...”

Cal could tell that she was trying to be gentle, and he in turn tried to ignore the impertinence of her... Her closeness. She was saying something. He ought to reply. And yet his mind worked slowly, too slowly, and before he could she was gone again. Though she had left him a parting gift. He touched two fingers to the wreath around his neck, and did not replace the hood upon his head. Fine, then. Let them look upon me.

When at last they had completed their long, slow pilgrimage to the foot of a statue depicting some heretical saint or another—the names of which Cal could not be bothered to remember—something else happened that managed to surprise him... Twice in a span of moments. He hoped this new trend would not continue. Cécilia asked him to accompany her onstage, alongside the undead, the barbarian, and the druid. He waved a hand dismissively at their leader's request for a keynote.

“Let the druid speak. I doubt these people care to hear what I have to say.” Cal said sourly, noticing the wreath still around his neck. He hesitated for a moment before he callously tore it away.

 

[Beann]

Kastalli nodded in agreement with Syllannan’s words. It was rather nice to experience the gratitude of the people they’ve helped. Usually, in her homeland, people are often thanked with a slap on the back or gifted hides for the winter. It was never something so grand like this! Even so, the general happiness of everyone around them was infectious, causing her tail to sway happily as well. “Yes, I am quite grateful to have joined this company, it truly has been a wonderful experience despite it only being the beginning.”

"You look really good by the way...y-your hair i mean! it looks really nice... i-i mean it always looks nice but like, uh, it also looks graceful and refined and... sorry, i am not very good with compliments"

She turned her head to look at him as he complimented her hair. It seemed he was struggling to find the right words so she offered him a smile in encouragement. “Thank you, Syllannan. I thought it would be nice styling it differently for this occasion - Sera did a wonderful job. It can be sometimes difficult taming it given the length.” Speaking of, Kastalli couldn’t remember the last time she had cut her hair. It must have been when she was still a young girl all those years back. “You look splendid as well but I am starting to realize that is all the time!”

 

[Roda the Red]

“You look splendid as well but I am starting to realize that is all the time!”

Once again, Syll was caught off guard by her compliment as he was never one to give too much attention to his looks, quite low on the daily list of priorities in fact, but nevertheless made his best efort to act natural to it. He could not tell if she was saying it honestly or out of politeness, either way he was glad to be friends with such a kind girl, though.

"You flatter me, Kastalli, well you see i got my dashing looks from my father... or at least that is what i would say if i had ever seen him" He snickered as he gave his response jokingly, even if the latter part was true.

 

[EdwardDewey98]

​

St. Berthana's Plaza

​

The nearby masses of Hobs and Humans started to gather near the stage in front of the statue of St. Berthana, everyone sang and cheered as the mayor got up the stage, waving at his people with genuine smile on his face. The company was doing 2 square formations in front of the stage as instructed by Alberto, one led by Waylond and the other led by Angelica, the banners of the Carthographers Guild, the Empire of Eranoire, House de Tarantina and of House Nathairóir gave the company a much more heroic and organized look in the eyes of the Waterhamerites, completely erasing the initial impressions of some adventuring rabble many had several days ago. As the masses continue to gather around the company and the stage, everyone watched a the acclaimed Griffin Riders danced in the air, causing great awe in both young and old watching them, soon after constables and militiamen take their positions around the crowd, all of them wearing clean uniforms and polished badges, even the Sheriff, who mostly used casual clothing while working, was wearing her uniform.

"Alright folks, behave!" shouted Alberto while looking at the company. In the backstage, Cécilia rolled her eyes as Gawain and Sera had their little discussion. "Come now, both of you are older than me and yet you are acting like children." She said before looking at Cassandra, resting on Sentry's shoulders, that's when she realized something. "...you know, Cassie, can you go get Abasi here? He needs the recognition for stopping that wicked Hob." she said, much to the joy of Cassandra. "But of course he needs it, my good madame! I'll go get him right away Cécilia!" she said before clumsily crawling down Sentry's front. "Hmm... she should get Korzhev too, he did knock out that bird woman that nearly killed Zen during our ambush, but then again, I don't think the Hobs even know about Zen's little existence... I wish the Tengu had stayed with us." she said while looking back at the crown that had formed around the company and the stage. "Dear me, half the town is here!" she said before Cassandra appeared, dragging Abasi by his delicate hands. "Here he is! The cat boy!" said the Hob writer while presenting Abasi to the group. "Ah, good! Sorry Abasi, I am sure you are not one to give speeches but I feel like you need to be on the stage at least, everyone needs to know about the young a-" "AND handsome!" "...brave man that stopped the Redcap wannabe!" said the scholar while putting a hand on Abasi's shoulder.

"Let the druid speak. I doubt these people care to hear what I have to say."

"I understand and respect that you do not wish to speak Calocis, but... if you feel like speaking, say of whatever good experiences you had in the town, feel free to do so. Waterhamerite's might be a bit too xenophobic, but they are well meaning and have treated us wonderfully." said Cécilia while Cassandra nodded furiously in agreement. "Excuse me, lady Delafousse? Everything is ready to start the ceremony, are you and those who will be on the stage ready?" said a human assistant of the Grand Mayor, Cécilia looked at her companions before giving the young man a nod. "Yes, we are ready."

As the Cécilia, Cassandra, Abasi, Calocis, Sera, Sentry and Gawain walked up the small steps of the stage, the Town Crier rang his bell hand bell to attract the attention of the masses, which was done successfully as it attracted the attention of everyone on the plaza and the nearby buildings. "HEAR YE! HEAR YE! Lads and lasses, 'tis an honor to present to ye, the Grand Mayor, Rubert Browndin!" shouts the bald and fat Hob before stepping aside, the Grand Mayor once again makes a little bow for the masses, who are cheering and clapping at the sight of their mayor - well, most Waterhamerites were, there were a quite a few that were a bit annoyed at the presence of the mayor. Some Hobs and humans dressed in commonfolk clothing with yellow bands on their arms were visibly annoyed, and so were some well-dressed Hobs that seemed to be part of the high society of Waterham.

The crowd stared at the stage as the mayor cleared his throat. He spoke with "Thank you, everyone who took time off their busy schedule to come to this celebration! I know it must have been hard, as us Waterhamerites value hard work above everything else." He said, making some of the Hobs nod and smile. "...now, I know some are not content with this celebration, funny innit? Why not celebrate a joyous occasion? The Yellow-Bands, who talk so much about workers rights in the Chamber of Speakers sure don't seem content with me spending money on our people and in our cultural events! and don't get me started on the Green-Coats, who would rather not do any celebration at all and give you a day rest because it harms their precious business, selling hard harvested produce to fill Sartonian or Arconian boats!" Various Waterhamerites boo at the nearby political opponents of the Grand Mayor, much to the disgust of Cécilia. "Is this little bastard for real...?" she asked to Cassandra in a hushed tone. "Be thankful you've never witnessed the Chamber of Speakers, it's pure and utter madness and it makes the Lykossian senate look like a forum of civilized men and women." responded the Hob scholar with a faint grin on her face. "I can't believe he has us standing here just to spew propaganda... Ugh!"

"But regardless, today is not a day for politics regardless of what my opponents might say! It is the day we bid farewell to some fine men and women who graced our city with their presence." The Mayor turned around to look at Cécilia, giving her a smile and receiving a fake grin in return. "Five days ago, in Artharias 10th, a band of what looked to be misfits and adventurers appeared in front of our gates, seeking shelter in the city... it was not a good first impression for anyone, much less for our Sheriff, Lydia Browndirt... but today, in Artharias 15th, the Expeditionary Company of the Cartographer's Guild, departs our city to explore the savage north... and they depart carrying the mantle of Heroes, for they have saved Waterham from corruption... Yes, my fellow Waterhamerites! CORRUPTION! From both within and from the outside."

The crowd was silent, every eye amongst the townsfolk was centered on the mayor, even the Griffin riders had ceased to fly the sky, and rested on the rooftops of nearby buildings to listen to the man. "It was the company who helped our constables catch the man behind the cruel and unspeakable crimes committed against Waterham... as many of you know, Belnach, once a trusted member of our community and a brilliant scribe and scholar, had succumbed to the seductive powers of heresy, he became a mystic, praying to wicked demons disguised as ancient Gods, and in his zealous mission to convert our city, he saught to destroy what he perceived to be traitors, those who found love... with a non-Hob - now I am a honest man, and I have my own opinions on these unions, perhaps it's the wrong opinion but it is mine regardless, but even if I do not approve of these unions... do they deserve to die, Waterham? The answer is simple... No, they do not deserve to die... But that was not the opnion of Belnach, and thus, seven people were murdered by him, I will say their names so they will never be forgotten... Anne-Marie and Jacko Burton, Ulys and John Camshire, Trevur and Yvonne Blackhat... and Wolter Blackhat, father of Trevur Blackhat, who attempted to defend his son and daughter-in-law from Belnach's cruelty."

The mayor turned around once more, to point at Cassandra and Abasi. "And for what I was told, Belnach's heresy was stopped not only by a member of the company, but also by one of our own... Cassandra Blackwell." The population of Waterham started to clap, and so did various members of the company, some even started to chant Abasi's name out loud. "Belnach will pay for his crimes with blood, as decided by the Chamber of Juries, but I know various folks, mostly my political adversaries, worry that I haven't done enough to catch Belnach's daughter, who is believed to be involved with her fathers crime - rest assured, Waterham, she will be found, and she will be trialed fairly!" The crowd cheered, hoping for the daughter of Belnach to share the same fate of her father.

"But while the arrest of Belnach is reason enough to celebrate... let us talk about the events that took place near Becket Street, as various hooded men and women... heretics of the worst kind, sneaked into our faithful city to attack our people. Two of our beloved constables died, fighting against the heretical scum, remember their names, Waterham! For they died like Heroes! Willion Dewil and Edword Whitewood!" The crowd screams the names of the fallen constables with a deafening passion. "But their deaths have been avenged, my dear Waterhamerites, our Sheriff and her men alongside the brave men and women of the Expeditionary Company, defeated the cultist scourge... and with the help of their powerful mages, sealed a demon back to where it came, in the deepest pit of Hel itself!"

The Mayor then pointed at Sera, Gawain, Calocis and Sentry, making the crown go wild again as the townsfolk wave at them, Gsera notices that Fluffy the Griffon was looking at her from a roof top next to his rider. "...and this is why we bid them farewell with a celebration, to thank them... for everything they done for us, even in their last day, they protect Waterham, as I was told they repelled some Goblins! Their might is to be respected, and their mission to record every road and culture out in the wild, is to be admired! Everyone! shout to the top of your lungs! Thank this company for helping Waterham and pray to the Big Mother to protect them in the trials aheads!" As the crowd cheers and throws flowers at the company, the Grand Mayor steps aside to give anyone in the company to give a farewell speech of their own. "...Go on guys, you can all speak if you want, I'll be the last one to say some parting words." said Cécilia while hiding her emotion, slightly moved by the passion of the Hobs cheering for her company.

Interaction: Calocis ( Elenion Aura ) Gawain ( Dmaster ) Sentry ( Breadman ) Gsera ( joshuadim ) Abasi ( Woffy )

 

[Dmaster]

Gawain stood to the side with the others with his hands once again behind his back, posture straight as he kept tall and listened to the words of the mayor. Using the celebration and events as a platform and means to reinforce his position for reelection was exhausting yet not unexpected. Politics was always such a petty game to the wizard, for while he knew the importance of governance he was always a terrible cynic and thought that every politician was in that game for the wrong reasons. It only truly bothered him when they would try to legislate important research, and if there ever comes a day where necromancy is made completely illegal out of ignorance Gawain may actually mobilize an army of undead to vent his frustrations.

The rest of the speech was quite acceptable, and his emotionless face betrayed his satisfaction while the wizard stared ahead at the crowd of Hobs beyond the stage. When there was a pause for any of them to give their parting speeches, Gawain turned his head to Cécilia and the others before giving a shrug of his shoulders. Having no fear of speaking publicly whatsoever, he strode a few steps forward and addressed the crowd with confidence and eloquence in his voice.

"Good people of Waterham, I thank you for being here as your mayor has. You may not know me all that well, but if I was asked to stop my important work for a gathering such as this the likelihood of me being in attendance is near-zero." the skeletal mage admitted, shaking his head as he raised a hand in front of him. "That is to say that your own attendance is both commendable and moving, and your skills as kindly socialites are far beyond that of mine. Regardless..."

"When we first arrived to your grand city, we were greeted with leering eyes and less-than-friendly demeanor. I do not pretend to be a historian of your culture or your ideals, so I cannot rightly criticize your customs. Your distaste for outsiders or fear of what they may do. I like to think that such a thing can only happen after a series of wrongs committed by others throughout history, and though my apology for those supposed actions means nothing to you I extend it anyway." Gawain states in his typical matter-of-fact way of speaking, offering a bow of his head.

"I only mention this because of what has transpired from you extending just a modicum of acceptance. When we shed our fear of the unknown, we walk briskly into a miasma of uncertainty. There are a great many dangers presented by the outside, those kin and people that you do not know, that you may possibly never understand. Take me, for instance." he says, a hand to his chest for emphasis. "I might look less than appealing or inviting to your eyes, though I still try and carry myself with the mission to improve our understanding of magic. Not just mine, but for all peoples. In that maelstrom of chaotic uncertainties in the unknown there are dangers yes, but within it still are endless possibilities and potential boons."

"By inviting us into your walls, allowing us to walk among you for a few days - we were able to protect you from forces both outside and within your city. I ask that next time a 'band of misfits' come to your proverbial doorstep, entertain them and see what kind of people they are before reserving judgment. I hope that in time you will come to accept all people as equals. You will make enemies yes, as there are those where conflict with them is inevitable, but there are many more that wish to live as you do. With pride and care for their neighbor. As we leave you, I just ask that you give these potentials some thought, hm?"

With that he turned on his heel and walked back to the company standing by, soon moving again to face the crowd so that the next speaker may go.

 

[joshuadim]

Upon reaching the stage and climbing up the steps to its main platform following the mayor, Gsera felt a pit form in her stomach from just how many people there were in this in the first place. As Cecilia aptly described, practically half the town was here just to witness this mayoral approved event. And while Sera quietly watched with nervousness as the mayor spoke, the intricacies of Hob politics were completely lost on someone like her, though from what she could hear from Cecilia's whispering it wasn't all that pleasant. But it was when the mayor recounted all the events that had occurred previously as well as those that they had lost in the line of duty from their constables did the ddraig soon realize how important this was to them. The adoration from the crowd for their actions, having dealt with the problems that menaced their town that fateful night, was enough to make Gsera blush slightly from such a passionate energy from the crowd.

It certainly felt good to be adored in this manner, but it was also a position she had never imagined finding herself in given her situation. This was the exact opposite of laying low and yet... it didn't feel wrong for perhaps the first time in a long time. And when the mayor finished speaking and stepped aside it was the cue for anyone among them on the stage to speak up with their own farewells. Gawain was first to go with his own comments and even Gsera had to admit it was rather well spoken though she had no idea how such a speech would go down with the locals when he asked for them to have a more open mind towards outsiders. It was when he finished speaking and returned to the company nearby that Gsera took a deep breath and stepped forward. Speak from the heart. she thought to herself as she faced the sea of faces in front of her.

"It's not often one is greeted with such revelry and praise from so many, and I am honored that you all think so kindly of me and my friends for our actions." she spoke, quickly giving a glance to where Gawain stood before returning her attention to the crowd. "While he spoke the truth about how we were received upon our arrival, I have learned more in these few days spent here about the people of Waterham than anyone would have through a book or a story."

"You hold guarded minds to protect your people from the dangers of the outside, and yet your hearts are filled with compassion and love like any other being. Even if it is not obvious to those who approach your city for the first time, it is evident that you are all part of a bigger family that is this community here: this city." Gsera then paused for a moment taking a deep breath as a brief reprieve before continuing with her thoughts. "And you extend that care to those outside of your community who you do invite inside as well. When me and my friends were attacked, and my head bleeding from a cultist's blow, it was your constables that came to our defense. They put their lives on the line because their hearts stood taller than the walls of this city and stood stronger than any piece of steel... that is something I will never forget."

"My kind... don't leave our home often. In a sense, the Tuatha seclude themselves from the world outside the Emerald Woods similar to how you shield yourselves from the outside world that had wronged you. I left because I want to see the world, as much of it as I can, for as a servant of Máthair I wish to see all of the beauty she had helped to create." she then spoke, extending her hands outwards, "And what better stories to bring back home than when I was taken in and protected by those that did not know me, nor I them, as if I were one of their own?"

"As my previous compatriot said, I shall speak of too: don't reject the world around you. As scary and dangerous as it is, if you embrace the people outside then they will embrace you. We all walk upon this beautiful world, so why not share in it and be stronger as a result?" Gsera then finished, giving a courteous bow at the end and returning to the company nearby.

 

[Breadman]

Sentry was not one for politics, yet she was always dragged to attend meetings while in the service of Cadmus. Around the third or fourth time she had learned how to space out in a manner that wouldn't be totally obvious. Was that bird a sparrow? Oh! Gawain is talking! Her companions had eventually gained an opportunity to speak instead of that mayor. The wizard was pragmatic in his approach to everything in life. Urging the hobbs to open up a bit. Sera followed him and gave a speech touching on the same points, but with different approach. The barbarian knew what she should say for her turn. She stepped forward soon after Sera was done, tapping the short girl on the shoulder for a job well done as they passed each other by.

"Hello Waterham!" Sentry started her own speech in her own way. "We haven't really met, but you already know me by now, eh? Sentry, tall woman, strong as a rock, tore the wigs off some cultists and with help from others "she pointed with a thumb to the rest of the company" gave a demon such a thrashing, that he scurried back into the nether regions of whatever abyss spawned him with his tail tucked between his legs and ass covered in blisters."

"Some of you did seem to think you knew me before that though. I care not for petty insults, but you had plenty. For me, for my friends and who else around us...but I understand. I'm no stranger to those feelings. I'll admit when I saw the minotavur in our group for the first time, I wanted to do...well not anything good to him. We were enemies in times past you see. His ancestors and I." She paused for a second realizing what she said. "Long story, Im older than I look. Moving on. His people slaughtered mine in bloody battlefields and burned our cities to ash. My king and best friend died by their hands. And that fueled my feelings of anger, mistrust and hatred. But then I remembered what my king told me. That everyone makes their own path and that their soul is not bound by the deeds of those who came before. Others in the group only reinforced those words with their own. In a moment of clarity I silenced the venom in mind and opened my heart to Petro. With just a few words from him I learned that he is a gentle soul and his actions from the other night, he showed that his chest holds a warrior's heart. I was wrong in my own judgement and I will bear no shame in admitting it."

"Now like my friends before me, I will urge you to do the same. Open your hearts to those who are worth it. Caution is a useful tool, but do not use it as a crutch as it can lead you down a path with very few friends." There wasn't anything else to say after that. So the old guardian turned around to go back and give someone else their turn to speak.

 

[EdwardDewey98]

The company and crowd watched both surprised and somewhat worried at Gawain as the undead sorcerer stood in front of everyone, ready to give his speech. He was a frightful sight for the Hobs and not many in the company could look past his undead nature, but once the wizard started to speak, the crowd became silent. The wizard's approach to the masses was direct, honest and slightly cynical, but despite some mild but truthful criticisms, Gawain's words had reached the Hob population. Many started to clap and cheer as the undead sorcerer finished his speech with a request to open their minds to outsiders and foreigners. This impressed both Alberto and Cécilia. "Hmph, little ignorant bastards will forget whatever you've told them today the day they get raided again by Skæglin raiders." said Edgar, his voice echoing slightly louder than usual inside Gawain's mind. "Hobs never learn, they are stubborn and will always be stubborn, it's part of both their race and specially their "Waterhamerite" culture." Gawain simply ignored the Lich's words, nations and people always change and hopefully, so will the Hobs and humans of Waterham.

Sera was the next person to give a farewell speech after Gawain stepped to the side - she had become a fan favorite among the Waterhamerites, having performed various magical tricks for the younger population. There were a few people who did actually dislike Sera among the crowd, over-zealous Hobs who have disdain for all heathen, but they were an incredibly low minority. Her words were candid, passionate and carried a message of mercy and love. Sure, a few Hobs rolled their eyes or looked away when she mentioned Máthair, but nearly everyone cheered and clapped when she finished her speech.

When the druid stepped to the side to let Sentry speak, there were many cheers, as she had also become a fan favorite among the population of Waterham - Sentry didn't know why that was the case, but the Sheriff knew, as her constables spread the rumor of Sentry's martial prowess. She had specially resonated with some of the Hob women, many of them wishing they could be a strong and independent woman like the barbarian. Sentry's speech carried the same message as Gawain's and Sera's, but her tale of initial hate and eventual acceptance of Petrocles made many Waterhamerite's consider how they view foreigners, now it was up to them whether or not to listen to her.

After Sentry was done and the crowd and company cheered her on, the Mayor looked at Abasi, Cécilia and Cassandra, making a gesture to know if any of them would like to speak next. Cassandra looked at Abasi, who shakes his head, before walking to the edge of the stage, looking at her fellow company members, her friends and even his distant Hob relatives. "Brothers and sisters of Waterham! I must admit, it is strange to be talking to so many of you! Most of the time when I talked in a stage, there were only just a handful of souls willing to listen to my rambling! Worry not, friends, brothers and sisters, for I am not here to bore you with academia. I am here to say good bye... I am going to where no Hob has ever gone before! Explore the whole world!" she shouted, pointing up at the sky as her energetic eyes looked at the surprised spectators. "But fear not, for I am not one to forget where they've come from... One day, I'll return to Waterham... and I'll hug every single one of you, and tell the young ones of the amazing stories of every corner of the world! Until that day however, listen to my companions, brothers and sisters! Open your minds and hearts, be cautious, but never let your caution harm people you can be allies with! Good bye! Waterham, home to the most wonderful people in the coast of Helmos!" The crowd cheered once more, but many could see among the faces of the young that wonderous glitter in their eyes, many wanted to follow Cassandra's steps, leave Waterham to see the world around them, the world beyond Ol' Joseph's walls.

​

As Cassandra steps aside, everyone's gaze turns to Cécilia as she takes two steps forth. She looked carefully at the crowd in front of her, giving everyone a sincere and honest smile of both joy and pride. "I... had a long speech planned, Waterham, but my companions told you all I needed to say, their message is sincere and in my opinion, helpful." she said before taking a deep breath. "Waterham is the home to some of the most hardworking people I've ever had the pleasure to live with, it's not perfect, no big city no matter who owns it is perfect, but you Waterhamerites's made Waterham to... to resemble you." Many Waterhamerites looked at each other when she said that, slightly confused at first. "Your city has an enormous and tough wall that protects you from harm that might come from the outside - just like you, who put up a tough demeanor to protect yourselves from outsiders." Some Hobs were actually a bit offended by that last statement, but remained quiet as Cécilia continued to speak. "But just like your city... inside of those walls there's friendly, honest and genuine people, beautiful people... you've taken care of us after you got to know us, and we got to know you, we've seen how hard working you are, how genuine you are with your emotions and way of speaking, something I both respect... and admire." Some Hobs started to cheer, others looked in solemn silence, touched by the scholar's words. "If you listen to my companions, I promise you... Waterham will only grow more beautiful."

"Today, I say farewell... Waterham, we will see each other again in the future, but until then... thank you, for everything." with a salute, the company and the crowd gave Cécilia their standing ovation. Of course, there were many who did not care for her message, but it was clear as day that most of Waterham was moved by her words, and have come to respect and even admire the company. As Cécilia and her companions descended the stage, the mayor spoke once more. "We will see you again someday, madame... until then, May Gaia and St. Berthana bless you on the journeys ahead! You and your companions will be on the prayers of ALL of Waterham!" with the blessings of the town, the scholar and her companions, the heroes of Waterham, joined the ranks of the company. Alberto approached Cécilia, giving her an approving smile. "Good speech - Are you ready to depart, mademoiselle?" asked the old knight with a grin on his face.

Five days, five days of learning about this region, it had felt like an eternity for many in the company, but today was it - the day they would leave Waterham, something that filled Cécilia with both excitement and joy. "Oui, allons-y mes camarades!" She shouted, and soon the company started to march like a military parade - the constables, led by the Sheriff, were marching alongside the company to protect them from the crowds walking besides them, throwing gifts and flowers once again. Gsera watched as the skies were full of Griffons, flying across the sky, parading just like them. "YES! WE ARE FINALLY LEAVING! HAHA!" shouted Cassandra as she sat on Malthara's shoulders. "Maly, we are finally doing it! We will see more than Helmos, aren't you exited?!" she asked to her white haired friend. "You guys did great!" said a company fighter to Sera and Sentry. "You too, master wizard." he added when noticing Gawain. "Are you newbies excited?" asked Paulin, while looking at Ziggy, Katarrik, Anija and Noradriia. "You are in for a long, long adventure!" he added with a friendly smile. As the company marched through the city, Gawain noticed someone among the crowds around the company. It was the alchemist, Yeshua-ben-Abbas, who had been incredibly useful to him earlier that week. "Be careful, master wizard, very few can look at a god." shouted the alchemist, accompanied by his grandson. Gawain wasn't able to respond to him, as the company was marching quickly - but this was a good reminder, tonight, he has to speak with Cécilia about her amulet, about her dreams.

As the gates were approaching and the wagons awaited outside, the company started to wave at the Hobs and humans of Waterham. The Sheriff and her constables continued to march past the walls as everyone started to march alongside the moving wagons and continued to do so until they had reached a considerable distance from Waterham. The Sheriff didn't say anything, she just gave each and every single one of you a respectful nod, watching you continue forth to the east - to Parelmeer, the Pearl Lake. The lake surrounded by the Unie van Vrije Steden, the Union of Free Cities - next stop, Riverham.

• Parelmeer •

​

Interactions: Gawain ( Dmaster ) Malthara, Katarrik ( Infab ) Sentry ( Breadman ) Gsera ( joshuadim ) Noradriia ( Vexumin ) Ziggy ( Anne Boolean ) Anija ( Zillamaster55 )

 

[joshuadim]

Gsera felt as though a mountain's worth of pressure had been lifted off of her once she had finished speaking, and this feeling was only helped by the positive reception she received from the crowd for her words as she gave off a wide grin and waved to the people of Waterham. She really did enjoy being among the Hobs here, and she had learned so much about their people and culture to feel as though she could have lived here as one of them. Alas, she could not stay as the company prepared to leave after Sentry, Cassandra and Cecilia all spoke their own farewells to a jubilent crowd and the company began to march away from the city. Parading through the streets like a victorious triumph, Gsera continued to wave and embrace the crowds jubilation until her attention was caught to the sky with scores of griffon flyers soaring overhead.

It was a solemn reminder that she could not enjoy flight openly like they could, and yet it was also a reminder of that wonderful flight she had with Fluffy atop his back. She saw him on one of the rooftops with her rider and gave a smile and wave to them both, almost tearing up as she would probably not see him again for a very long time... if ever. She was snapped out of that thought train by a company fighter congratulating her, Sentry and then Gawain on their speeches. "Oh, thank you!" Gsera replied with a giggle, "They were all a wonderful people to be among."

As the company left the city, they were accompanied by the Sheriff and her constables for a time before they too left. But Gsera also gave a farewell wave to her and her companions as thanks for their help and protection before venturing forth in the adventure. Now marching through semi-forested lands towards their next destination, Gsera walked with a cheerful skip in her step with high spirits. She quickly stepped forwards to be next to both Syll and Kastalli, who were both getting rather close to one another at this point with their hands: "So, what's the next place we're going to like?" the ddraig then asked aloud, "If it's anything like Waterham was, I look forward to it greatly!"

 

[Dmaster]

Gawain did indeed ignore Edgar completely, not even bothering to entertain the lich's grumblings. While he was a cynic in his own right with very little faith in other people, he was still human enough to recognize and hope for a better world and future. Truthfully the wizard would not throw himself so deeply into his work if it did not contribute to the betterment of magic and society in some form, even if his research could be used for nefarious purposes. As he told the Hobs, far more good tends to come from uncertain paths than evil, even if his most recent discovery had irrevocably scarred him beyond recognition. To Gawain that just meant he could not allow it to be in vain.

"Ah, thank you kindly." he replies with a hand to his chest and slight bow of his head to the fighter. He wasn't expecting a very positive reaction to speaking his mind in front of the Hobs, as typically his rants don't win him many points in the public eye. Yet the undead mage was pleasantly surprised to see such reception from both the city and the company as they had finally departed. Gawain did hinge on the words of Yeshua, turning his head to him as he silently glanced at the aged alchemist before hastily being shuffled along by the marching men and women behind him. The wizard was determined to get the answers he sought, and he will be exploring the venues given to him by both Yeshua and Cécilia in time.

Gawain took up position in the center of the group as they walked, unable to help but overhear Gsera's excitement and optimism for their next destination. "I think I would prefer if our next destination lacks the murderous caster, cult, and demons that Waterham threw at us. That is just me being frank." he states with a shrug. "Though the odds of encountering all of those in the next area are astronomically low... Hm. I suppose having the locals say less colorful things to me is what I would prefer, then. Yet something tells me where you lot will be spared of such a greeting I won't be."

 

[joshuadim]

"I think I would prefer if our next destination lacks the murderous caster, cult, and demons that Waterham threw at us. That is just me being frank."

Gsera rolled her eyes at Gawain's cynical response and audibly groaned. "I meant everything apart from those... I don't want to ever see those demons or cultists ever again." she then spoke, shuddering at the idea of running across the Cult again. Could they still be after us.... after me? she then thought to herself, We defeated so many of them but.. are there more? Regardless of the situation, she straightened herself out again: "The griffin riding was great, as were the people and shops! Hopefully there will be something exciting at our next stop as well. The good kind of exciting." she said, emphasizing her last words as to prevent any additional snark from the necromancer she quarreled with in words.

 

[Breadman]

"Ah, people just don't know you as well as we know you, master wizard." Sentry said as she walked next to Gawain. "But that may change as we travel and word gets around." She said as notes coming from harps can be heard from the rear. The bardic trio were already trying to come up with a melody for the journey ahead. The pulling on the strings only interrupted by the clopping of hoofs on the ground as Waylond's steed was moving on from the rear.

"If they see what company the mage keeps even the most ghastly servant he can summon might be accepted." He threw his own two coppers in "Well, maybe if they didn't know the servant beforehand."

I meant everything apart from those... I don't want to ever see those demons or cultists ever again. The griffin riding was great, as were the people and shops! Hopefully there will be something exciting at our next stop as well. The good kind of exciting.

"Hopefully something good to eat and drink." The barbarian added. "Wouldn't mind meeting with someone who knows about spells and old tales either. Memory is still foggy."

 

[EdwardDewey98]

"The griffin riding was great, as were the people and shops! Hopefully there will be something exciting at our next stop as well. The good kind of exciting."

"In Riverham?" stated Pepin, the experienced Eranoiran adventurer who the company knew well by now. "Excusez moi, mademoiselle, but besides some tidbits of interesting history, there's nothing exciting about the city itself." he said while stroking his greying black beard. "If memory doesn't betray me, it was created by Ælians, back when the Kingdom of Ælia fought bitterly against Brannoria. So I imagine young Syllannan will be able to translate to those few that don't know Ælian." he said while marching next to a wagon. "What else can you tell us about the city, Pepin?" asked another company fighter. "Hm, it's big but nowhere near as big as Waterham, if I'm not mistaken, they mostly specialized in the river trade, fish and all that." said Pepin, which didn't exite his fellow adventurer at all. "That's it? Nothing else? A good tavern? a good whorehouse? Anything?" asked the adventurer again, but Pepin just shaked his head. "They are Ælians, lad, their love for Gaia is as strong as the Hobs on Waterham, there's a few taverns but I doubt you'll get anything too strong in it."

Alberto, now riding his trusty horse Pedro, overheard the conversation and decided to join it. "You truly have an impecable memory, master Pepin - but what about the other cities on the Union of Free Cities?" he asked with honest curiosity, he had traveled through these lands before, but they were important adventures that didn't allow him to stay in many settlements of the region. "Hm? Well, after Riverham there's Ulham, Meadowshire and Copseshire... that'd be the end of the Ælian cities, then comes the Fryskolandian cities - Rubenstad, Parelstad, Vrouwstad, Meerstad, Gildestad and Kasteel van de Draak, home to the only nobles in the Union, Baron Karst-Jan van der Draak."

"Wait... why is there a barony in the Union of Free Cities?" asked Alberto, having never heard of this before. "You forgot of the Fryskolandi Rebellion against Hamala and Eranoire, monsieur?" asked Cécilia with a teasing grin on her face. "The Barony joined the Union in protest of the Kaiser's constant efforts to centralize power, and the Fryskolandi population are not exactly the most loyal servants of the Kaiser nor of the Emperor of Eranoire, when the rebellion started, these Fryskolandi cities joined the Union, and so did the Barony - best way to describe the relationship of the Barony with the other cities is 'you leave me alone and we will protect each other when Hamala, Brannoria or Eranoire inevitably invade us.' Quite interesting, is it not?" She added before getting back to the notes she was working on.

"But uh... any good brothels in any of these places?" asked the other adventurer, Cécilia rolled her eyes and allowed Pepin to answer that. "Aye, Fryskolandians know how have fun, lad - but Gildestad? It's an adventurer city, created by the Red Dragons Guild a very long time ago, 'tis filled with everything an adventurer needs... but it is a good while before we get there." responded Pepin. "Finally, something to look forth to!" said the adventurer.

"Wouldn't mind meeting with someone who knows about spells and old tales either. Memory is still foggy."

"SENTRY!" shouted Cassandra, emerging from one of the wagons. "I have to talk to you about my findings tonight, in private preferably!" she added, she had a huge grin on her face. "Good news, I think!" she added before getting back into the wagon, only the Gods know what she's doing in there.