Realistic or Modern If December Freezes (IC)

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Every Dog Has His Day​

Augie sank down into a crouch as he dried off Boy, and then showered the dog with reassuring pats and "Good Boy." He was definitely relieved to have Boy here, Marius safe, and out of the rain still pouring down outside. "This is Sage, Marius is his Pop. You did good, Boy. Real good."

Sage finally seemed to relax after having checked Marius over for injuries. He sat down next to his pops, finally taking a look around the area and then over to Augie and the dog. "You need more light in here. What is this place?"

Augie chuckled, "Our home. And a secret, if you don't mind." He wasn't too worried about Sage, after all he knew the man would hold the fact that they helped his pops in their favor. "How's Marius?" Good way to redirect Sage's attention and change the subject.

"Wet, but I don't see any injuries. Do you mind if we wait out the storm? I'd rather not try to get him moving on the wet sand."

"Sure, that's fine. You can use that blanket to dry off, there should be another somewhere near you." He had lots of blankets spread throughout for Boy to settle down wherever the dog wanted. Augie settled on the floor as well then, letting Boy lay across his legs. It wasn't like he was going to get any more soaked by the action. "Was it supposed to rain today? Came on all of a sudden like."

"No, not that I was aware of. Shit, this is going to put back some of our dock work. Hope it stops soon. And uh... thanks." Sage wasn't the best with emotions, and the lower tone at the end suggested he wasn't used to thanking others.




OOC Information

Riley KodakWolf : As the men talk, your echo vision is near constant, giving you a decent glimpse into what Sage looks like, what Augie looks like. It's not a complete picture, more like an outline, almost like an ink drawing with only a few additional features drawn in. Sage has the broad shoulders, and deep eyes. Augie has a strong smile that curls the edges of his eyes. Marius has his face turned toward the dog, one hand still outstretched, fingers trying to beckon the animal close again.

You can't quite settle down. There's an uneasiness within you, churning around and around the moment you think you're comfortable. It feels like you're waiting for the other shoe to drop.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Marasong Inn​

The inn was very welcoming, homey, and more importantly, dry. The lobby had a lot of chairs, several around a large fireplace, though it was almost more like a firepit than a fireplace. It wasn't fueled by wood, but fire glass, giving the fire an almost ethereal glow, but just as warm. It matched the numerous floor lamps, ceiling chandeliers, and wall sconces made out of sea glass. It was colorful and inviting, never giving off a harsh light, but a warm, almost flickering illumination throughout the inn.

Seraphim was at the front desk, and she offered complimentary towels to each person coming in out of the rain. She didn't pester for names, or to even get checked in. The woman seemed content ot wait for those in need of a room to come see her when they were ready. Though she was likely preparing for the eventuality, typing away at her computer and getting room keys ready.

When Roje asked about the rain, the woman gave a smile and a little laugh. "Not usually at this time of year, but it isn't unheard of." Her voice was soft, melodic even, and downright charming. "Don't worry about the floor, we'll take care of it." Seraphim held out a towel toward Roje and gave a nod of understanding. "I'll be here when you're ready to check in." She offered up a return wave to a man at the doorway, but then returned to getting the rooms sorted ahead of time.

And when Indy arrived, Seraphim held out a towel toward the woman. "Yes, there's a phone over there along the wall for guests to use. There's no fee, just pick up and dial." She gestured to a nice hand carved wooden side table against the wall, a sea glass sconce providing enough illumination to see without being blinding. She returned to her work, but did keep a glance on the growing group in case someone needed something.




OOC Information

Edwight Thropian : Through your Wetsong Tour 2021, you picked up on a few spirits, but it was too difficult to make out exactly what they were with the rain and something else interfering. However, you had the strongest sense of these when walking past some of the stores along the docks. Most had closed up for the rain, knowing no tourists would be partaking of their wares, so it wasn't possible to go in and investigate further. You took note of the stores for possibly returning when the rain had stopped. The Imported Booty, Shell Rocked, Colors in the Rain, and the strongest vibe came from the Careless Shark Pub. Other places seemed to be a void of sensation, as if blocked, such as The Loving Spoon cafe. Or maybe you were too overwhelmed to pick up on anything aside from the ocean. So many senses in the ocean the closer you were to the Marasong Inn.

Roje Britt-21 : The signal is a bit weak, maybe due to the storm outside, causing you to redial Joe a handful of times. Finally, you seem to hold one bar long enough to make a connection. It rings about four times before it's picked up on the other end and Joe's voice answers. "Hello?" NOTE: The conversation will continue via in character session in Discord.

Leif KodakWolf : Marianne couldn't help but laugh lightly when she realized the soaked vehicle was her son's. She took the keys and gave Leif a nod, but also a light thwap on an arm for saying 'see spirits' out loud. She seemed a bit exasperated by then, and just returned to the clinic so she wouldn't hear any more slips of the tongue. You didn't see anything in the rain, but most had likely sought shelter by the time you ventured out into the storm.

Turid's voicemail picked up on the fifth ring. "Look, I'm busy or can't be gobsmacked to answer right now. Just leave your name and digits, thanks love." You know that's her voice without a doubt. However, there's another beep, and another recording. "We're sorry, this user mailbox is full and cannot accept more messages. Please try again later." And the call was disconnected just about the time you spy a small blonde headed figure along the edge of the docks. You remember that height, and that hair, but the figure dives off the docks and into the water before you can confirm if it's who you think it was.

Indy Rhyme : Seeing the inn, and all the interior decorations fills you with a sense of home, and yet not quite home. It calls to you, not quite as loudly as the pendant around your neck, but it's there. A sense of belonging to something larger than yourself. It feels so right, the sensation seeps into your bones the longer you're here, not just in the inn, but in Marasong. Like the whole of the town has been waiting for you to return. And now, you have.

Clementine @AsherMasher : Somehow you managed to get to the inn and situated in a chair by the fireplace with a small hand towel in your lap to help dry yourself off from the rain outside.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[KodakWolf]

Riley Adler / Boy
Location: Chatting in the cave
Tags: Out Of Words
(Via Discord)​

Boy peeked from behind Augie whenever Sage said anything, but other than that, he mostly listened and observed. Because there was so much to see. Now that there were many more sounds inside the cave, he could see a lot better. So he'd look up at Augie, Sage and Marius, back and forth. He looked at Augie the longest. It was really cool to see what his first friend in Marasong looked like.

He wasn't comfortable with the idea of Sage waiting out the storm in their home, but Augie seemed to trust him, so he would do his best to trust Sage too. But he just couldn't get comfortable. He wasn't even sure if it was just about Sage being there, because there wasn't that much reason to be that wary of him.

He'd step back and forth behind Augie, sit down for few seconds, then start moving again. At some point, he even left his hiding spot behind the man and moved to lie accross his legs. But a few seconds later, he was up again. Since he was already exposed anyway, he then moved to cautiously sniff Marius' hand that was still outstretched in his direction, eyes on Sage.


Marius moved his fingers when the dog was close, trying to pet him and even muttering a ragged, "Good dog." It was enough that Sage nearly held his breath.

Sure, Marius spoke before, but it was always some near insane rambling story, and nothing that was connected with what was going on around him. Here, Marius was obviously looking at the dog, and trying to pet the dog, and commenting on the dog.

Augie added, "He did that in the cafe, too. He was petting Boy and seemed to enjoy it. Before the fire alarm sounded."

Sage explained a little, "Pops always had a dog, had one when we moved here. But it was lost."


Tail wagged a little, and eyes moved to watch Marius now, when Boy got no negative or suspicious reactions from Sage. In fact, the man was very surprised when Marius spoke something that wasn't complete nonsense. And again, Boy had no idea how he knew so well what Sage was feeling.

Boy lay on his stomach where he was, and half crawled, half dragged himself a bit closer, so Marius could pet him. He even laid his head down on the ground beside Marius' hand. Ears perked, he hoped to listen to the rest of the story.


Augie watched as Marius was able to start petting Boy and the older man seemed to instantly relax. Sage chuckled lightly, "Yeah, don't know what happened. Lost him about.. five years now I think."

"Oh, that would explain why I don't remember him. Came here just about five years now. What was his name?" Augie had picked up on the 'him' part and assumed the dog was a boy, like Boy.

"Caliber. He never left Pops' side, save for that one time. Was in a storm too, sort of like now. More wind though. Max and I went out looking, searched every damn where. Pops.. started declining then."


Marius' touch helped Boy relax a bit and stay put. If if hadn't been for it, he'd have certainly gotten back up and moved to a different spot at this point. He focused on the pets, and it helped him ignore the strange uneasiness.

As he listened to the story, a brief, hopeful but unlikely thought crossed his mind: what if he ended up actually helping Marius? For real, like a therapy dog? He wasn't really believing it to be a real possibility, but it'd be nice for sure. Sure was strange that Marius started declining after losing his dog.

He did want to know why Sage, Marius and Augie moved to Marasong, but he couldn't really ask, so he just stayed put, receiving the pets. He was still a bit tense, and ready to jump back if needed, but eyes remained on Marius, and his focus was on the pets.


Marius moved slightly, so he could use both hands, giving Boy a good rub, like someone greeting their dog after a long absence. Augie was quiet, just watching. Sage was too, for a little while.

"He your dog?"

Augie gave a bit of a smile. "He's his own dog. The town's mascot even. Says so on his collar."

Sage extended a hand toward the dog, even as Augie added, "He's blind, a little skittish. Just go slow and talk nice. Uh.. I call him Boy."

Sage gave a chuckle but did see if he could get a hand close enough to give a pet of his own. "Boy, eh? Hey, Boy. Pops likes you."


When Boy felt Marius' other hand touching his fur, he startled a bit, but stayed there, chin resting on the rock floor. He let out a sigh as he relaxed a bit more with the rubs.

When Augie said he was his own dog, the tail wagged just a little bit. He liked being his own dog. On the few times he'd tried being someone else's dog, it hadn't worked too well.

From his position, he couldn't see much, even with his echo vision. But from Sage and Augie's words he guessed that Sage was probably going to try to pet him too. He saw no reason for alarm, so the tail wagged a little bit more while the dog stayed put, a bit tense, trying to watch Sage, but because he didn't move his head, and the sounds were few now, he was almost blind again.

He'd still startle a bit whenever Sage touched him, but not too much since he was kind of expecting it. A bit later, he'd lift his head up a bit to try to sniff Sage's hand.


Sage pet Boy, just a couple of times as he didn't want to get in Pops' way. "Would it be better for the dog to live in an actual home? With winter coming up and all?"

Augie was startled a little, but he shouldn't have been surprised. "Boy is free to come and go as he wants." But the idea of not having the dog's company did make him sad.

And yeah winter was harsh at times, a little cave wouldn't cut it for someone not used to living in the elements. He worried a lot about Boy, and had self doubts about if he was taking good enough care of the dog.

Marius was almost like a new old man, petting Boy and even smiling, laughing soundlessly.


Sage's pets were alright. Not as great as Marius', but good, and they made Boy relax a bit more around the man. There was nothing very specific about his scent; it was just really similar to Marius', that deep ocean that still didn't make much sense for the dog.

It was Sage's words that drew his attention. He didn't want to leave Augie. Whose home would he even live in? Sage's and Marius'? He felt Augie's worry and sadness, and were it not for Marius' rubs on his fur, he'd have moved over to reassure him. But the old man was... smiling, a lot it seemed.

Boy wasn't seeing much, but it was clear the man was very different than a short while ago, when he was unresponsive and trying to drown himself in the ocean. Tail wagged softly as the dog lifted his head up more to try to observe the man, tilting it a bit to the side with interest. If only Sage and Augie had seen how present Marius seemed to be when he pleaded for help... tt'd been scary at the time, but now that things seemed to be going a bit better, Boy was even proud! The dog crawled forward just a little bit more, paying close attention to Marius' reactions.


Sage wasn't one to beat around the bush. "I'd like to see if the dog, er, Boy, would want to stay with Pops a little while. He.." And here Sage's voice grew tight with emotion. "I've not seen Pops this aware for awhile."

Augie had sensed this was coming but still needed a minute before he could talk. His voice was softer, he was worried and sad at the same time. "He should be able to come and go as he wants."

Marius' blue eyes were clear and focused on the dog.


All the emotions in the room were disconcerting, Boy wasn't used to sensing all that. When Sage suggested he spend some time with Marius, it wasn't all that unexpected. Boy felt some worry, and sadness. Or perhaps that was Augie, or maybe both of them.

His vision wasn't too sharp, so it took a while of observing to confirm how focused Marius' eyes were on him. It made sense that Sage's voice carried so much emotion, Boy felt some of it too.

But Boy finally stood up and turned around, calmly stepping over to Augie and sitting beside him, nudging his shoulder and licking his cheek a couple of times.

He'd done so much harm in the past, Boy would like the chance to do some good for a change. But not if it meant hurting Augie. Because he just got the confirmation that in fact, he'd been doing Augie some good too.


Augie hugged Boy, and gave some scratches behind the ears. "How about I bring him by, show him the way there, and once he knows the way, see if he's willing to stay and visit?"

Of course there was the chance Boy would like it better there than in a dank cave. Might be better for the dog's health too. He wouldn't deny the dog a chance at a better home, but would stay adamant the dog could come and go as he wished.

Sage seemed to agree, "Yeah, after this damn storm. Tomorrow maybe?" And he was helping his pops to sit up with the preparation to head home. Rain or no rain.

"Yeah, we'll stop by after our usual cafe breakfast run."

Sage agreed, guiding Marius to his feet. Whatever trance the old man had been under before was broken by the dog earlier. They headed out, "Thanks again. I don't think the storm is letting up so will just head home. Can't get more soaked than we already are. See you tomorrow then."


Boy liked that idea, and the tail wag showed it. To Sage and Augie, it probably just showed that the dog was enjoying the ear scratches, which was also true. If he learned a safe way to Marius' home, he'd like to visit him and see what kind of benefit he could bring the old man. And he trusted Augie to defend his right to come and go as he pleased.

As the two men got up and started heading outside, so did the dog, and he followed them all the way to the entrance of the cave, but didn't go out into the rain, as it was starting to get chilly. Instead, Boy sat at the entrance, watching as the heavy raindrops delineated the two forms walking away. He paid close attention for a little while, a good two minutes or so, until he was convinced Marius wouldn't try to wade into the ocean again. And then he turned around, and gleefully trotted back to Augie.

 

[Larry]

Aódh McFaol
Location: Forest, outskirts of Marasong.
Mood: Annoyance is beginning to seep in.
Interactions: BillieRoss | silverwhere .
Mentions: n/A.​

Perhaps it was the sudden excitation when Hatsu tried to toss the box at him: maybe it was the rain, and the way it caused his clothes to cling about him; it could have been his searching after somebody, only to realise that they had no conception of the dangers they were getting into; a mélange of these things served to kindle a spark of irritation in Aódh. The young man was mightily aware to the implications that being in an agitated state could mean for him. One instance, easily retrieved from memory and used as a case in point, was during a hurling match, a year after he had contracted lycanthropy. The youth had plucked the sliothar out of the sky, launched as it was from the opposition team's half of the pitch, and was ready to drive it down the field again, only for a forward on the other team to barrel in to him from behind. He wouldn't have minded the tackle, where it not for the man sledging him about his mother. Upon receipt of that disparaging remark, Aódh rose from the ground in a rather unnatural way; he could feel the urge to transform, almost irresistibly so, worming it's way through every sinew, vein and nerve in his body. He restrained himself at the last moment from swinging the hurley, with near-truncating power behind it, though barely. The urge, the proclivity to release that frightening power, the inclination to transform at times, was overwhelming. To resist, was the equivalent of bedewing a great blaze in hopes of quenching it.

But, in the forest, it seemed that the mass imbruing that the rain brought about only served to increase Aódh annoyance. Yet, he didn't feel cold. On the contrary, the heat of emotion distracted him to the pelting droplets of rain that was still languishing the area in a frosty mist. Get a hold of yourself, calm the feck down, he thought to himself, closing his eyes in hope that the action and the corresponding darkening of his sight would soothe this restive feeling. Almost as though the Fates had writ it such that this moment would brook no peace for him, the sound of a body plopping into a puddle reached his ears. Turning to face the source, he espied it to be none other than Bill, who it seemed looked rather winded by the fall. Under normal circumstances, he would have reached over to them, asking them if they were alright and needed a hand up. No such consideration was forthcoming from the Irishman, who stomped over to his newly made, Scottish acquaintance, the squelching sounds thumping out against the monotonous downpour of rain, sure not to repeat the same mistake she had.

"GET UP..." he growled, a hand reaching down and clasping the back of the woman's corduroy jacket, the slight-dangling sound of a necklace bearing bare its presence to him. With little effort, Aódh dragged her into a standing position, eyeing her over, the frontal portion of her clothing now smothered in mud.

Tilting his head around to look in Hatsu's direction, a furrowed brow and a furious glint in his eyes delineating his features: "Let's be going, I don't want to be out in this fuckin' rain much longer."

 

[Silver-]

Encounters Compilation [Discord]
Silver Blackwood
Tags: Out Of Words | Location: Docks > Inn

The dull thud of barrels knocking into each other sounded just after words left the lips of the man that had quite literally materialized less than a foot from Silver. Her eyes were wide, blaring chips of amber-gold against their usual blackish-brown if only for a moment as her heart rammed against the restrictive casing of her ribcage.

Braced up partially against the wall and the barrels she’d just assaulted, she swallowed the rumbling sound of distrust in her throat, “I’m sorry, you said Tooker? Tucker?”. His accent was quite thick—she’d never heard anything like it in real life before. “Why be sopping wet out here by yourself if you know the way back home?” Like a cornered animal, she moved carefully despite the trash bag for a poncho making her appear outlandish, huffing in annoyance as she tore the thing off herself and shoved the scraps into her pocket. It wouldn’t be good to litter.

He grinned, "Aye." Tucker didn't seem to mind the rain in his face one bit, or the question about why he was out there instead of at home. "I was ahn me way 'ahme, boeht saw you catchin de rain wethooeht a boehcket." He gave a chuckle, before letting his gaze sweep to either side before returning to her. "Where are you 'eadin? I can make sure you get dere."

Silver lifted her chin a little when she regained her composure, her eyes darker than before. It was too convenient. She was lost, without any good sense of direction especially with the storm dampening all her senses and drowning the town with it’s never-ending sheets of rain. It also caused trouble in whether or not she could tell if this man was something other than human. Putting a little more space between them in case he decided to lash out, she moved backwards until she reached the corner of the building where the front was.

“Without a bucket..”, she reiterated, narrowing her eyes at the effort. “I wanted to see if there was a lighthouse. I saw a light flashing against the houses but I couldn’t see the place itself,” rather than giving him a direct route, she chose something that might guide her to the whereabouts of the inn.

"Ahh sure. Dere's a lighthouse at de inn. Is dat where you're stayin? It's naht dat far." He moved away a couple of steps and gestured for her to follow. "I'm sure Sera 'as a towel waitin fahr anyone wanderin in. Dis way."

Tucker stuck his hands in the pockets of his jeans and began to head toward the middle, where the docks would part with a left and right side. And then across the dark, wet planks toward the Eastern edge.

"What's yooehr name?"

Silver looked away when he asked if that was where she was staying, wanting to mumble a stubborn ‘perhaps’ but knowing that if the lighthouse truly was by the inn, it would be obvious as to where she was actually headed. When he gestured, she finally took notice of his casual attire and mentally grinned at the shirt that framed his body. A unicorn looking like a dog with an itchy butt. It was something straight out of a freshman’s wardrobe. “I’m Silver. Nice to meet you.. Tucker.”

She noted how close they were to the ocean, smelling the salt over the fresh water of the rain that began to lap at her once they got out from beneath the roof. The dock was made of weathered wood, slick beneath her black boots enough that she tensed up a few times to stop herself from falling. “Are you from Marasong? Your accent seems.. Irish, I think.”

Tucker grinned and wriggled his eyebrows. "Nahticed dat, ded you? I'm a wee bet o' dis, a wee bet o' dat. A whahle laht o' nahthin, and stell sahmethin."

His pace wasn't hurried, but not slow enough to be called out. "Figurin you're new arooehnd 'ere. When it ain't pourin cats and dahgs, you shooehld check ooeht de stahres 'ere. De cafe's real tasty."

The longer she focused on the man guiding her, the easier it became to sift his scent through the earthy smells raising from the air. The hairs on the back of her neck began to rise and she paused for a moment to look him over fully, not really hiding her scrutiny.

“I see..,” she muttered distractedly, noting the musky, almost sharp scent he carried. It wasn’t like something putrid but it reminded her of a mixture between a dead ant and a normal human. “Sort of. I assume you mean, The Lovely Spoon?”

She briefly looked away from him towards where the ocean would’ve been before shuddering slightly and trekking forward. The rush of warmth that adrenaline had given her from Tucker’s appearance was waning.

"De lahvin spoon, yeah. Right tasty, fells de belly." He gestured to the Loving Spoon as they passed the cafe. There were lights inside, and some people taking advantage of the dry interior to treat themselves to a pastry or two.

Silver was surprised to see people going on about their lives within the brief glimpse she caught of them through the cafe’s windows. Were storms like this common here?

"De lighthouse inn is at de end, you see de light? Dey toehrn it ahn in stahrms like dis." And sure enough, the light swept overhead as it circled around the lighthouse, making sure any ships didn't run ashore in the storm.

She squinted after accidentally looking straight up at the lighthouse’s bright beam, nearly blinding herself before looking to Tucker. “Thanks for bringing me here, I really appreciate it.” She nodded to him respectfully out of habit, especially with being unsure as to how old he was. “Before I go, though, do you happen to know a Chase around here?”

Because Silver was focusing on Tucker at the time of the question, she could just make out the narrowing of his gaze, and a small muscle twitch at the side of his temple. The kind usually made when one clenched their teeth. It was brief, and maybe she didn't see it right, maybe it was a trick of the sweeping light.

"Dahn't ring a bell, dat one. I'll let you know if I remember sahmeone by dat name. Ahh, 'ere's de inn. Inside wit you now, get ooeht o' de rain." He even held the door open for her, though something at the edge of the docks started to grab his attention. "I'll see you again soon, Mess Selver."

---
The flicker of an uneasy emotion, emphasized by the frigid rains beating down on both of their shoulders stirred the beast coiled in the back of her mind. The weather couldn't conceal the obvious distaste for the name she'd uttered in Tucker's presence. The casual and seemingly kind personality she was absorbing from his easy, sauntering movements washed away with every sheet of cold water that was splashing down their bodies, her dark gaze observing the change in him but her mouth revealing nothing of what she'd analyzed from him.

Crystalline lights throwing pools of golds and amber into the otherwise somber outdoors beckoned Silver inside with it's aura of warmth and safety, carrying the scents of many including those whom she recognized, but for the instance that Tucker held open the door for her in a chivalrous manner, she grew statuesque. Against the illuminated indoors and caught between the gray outside, Silver appeared to be nothing more than a shadow as she took a moment to think about whether or not she really wanted to have the man be behind her where she couldn't see what he'd do next. The cold didn't bother her for that brief time as she was distracted by her thoughts before her shoulders eased ever so slightly, a shaky exhale leaving her lips after giving Tucker one last look. "Looking forward to it, Drowned Rat."

Silver didn't bother to follow the direction that had captured his attention as she whisked past him, entering the threshold of the inn. Removing her hands from her pockets, she raised her dominant hand and noted that she was trembling quite badly, her gaze blank at the realization. A soft, thick towel was soon placed into her open palm, her eyes lifting to lock with Seraphim's whom offered her words of comfort that she could've sworn were the source of all this place's homeliness. Silver quickly apologized for bringing in so much water from the storm but Seraphim's answer had simply been for her to get comfortable by the fire and that there was no need to worry.

She could only nod her answer as her legs moved of their own accordance towards the warm pit of firelight. Rubbing the towel over her head, she dried the dark hair that had clung to her face and settled herself onto the floor rather than one of the chairs that encircled the vibrant glass. It would be rude to ruin one of Seraphim's chairs after dragging in the storm with her. She shut her eyes to focus on drying her head while doing her best to ignore the burning strain of her arms that screamed in defiance at her efforts, exhaustion racking her body with a new vengeance after not having taken a single second of solace all day. Warmth like that of the sun resonated from the glass before her, lapping at her battered and cold body. It felt nice to be out of the squall, she admitted, but the next issue would be re-grouping with the others.

Rest now, while you can. Fur softer than that material of the towel brushed against her hands that had dropped into her lap, causing her to breathe a quiet sigh of relief. The other shifter is here. Indy's scent drifted into her numbed senses and she took a glance over her shoulder just as her body voiced it's disdain. She grimaced at how chilled it felt, her core still numb and aching with a soreness she'd never experienced before. A quiet hope for respite flickered across her thoughts now that she was here but she knew it wouldn't be possible until she knew everyone was safe and that this place truly was meant for them to rest easy in.

Scouring the receptionist desk, she found a woman leaning away from the prying eyes and ears of the others as she coddled something to her ear, murmuring words Silver could only half focus on. Indy. Had she seen her come in? Perhaps she should greet her? She meant to stand but her legs were the final naysayer and she honestly couldn't have agreed more to stay sitting in front of the lulling warmth.

Annoyance briefly spread across her eyes as she stared into the unearthly, shimmering light at the fact that her body was still quaking, thinking perhaps if she bore her look down on it her weakness would cease. The way her clothes clung to her body more than before offered no help as they plastered to her frame, forcing her to appear smaller than before and it didn't help that the gradual drying factor was causing them to feel like a second skin as well. She wished to bury her face into her wolf's fur and allow herself to not be so aware of her surroundings for once, but instead she propped her chin onto a fist and simply closed her eyes. It would probably be best if she listened to her wolf's advice while there was still time to do so. She couldn't mull over everyone and everything even if she wanted to.

 

[KodakWolf]

Leif Hjalkarssen
Location: At the docks
Tags: Out Of Words Thropian
(Via Discord)​

While listening to the rings and waiting for an answer, Leif unconsciously resorted to eavesdropping on Roje's conversation as a means to keep anxiety at bay. There was even a level of envy at the fact that someone had actually picked up her call, while the ringing on his ear seemed to be endless. He briefly glanced at Roje when the woman seemed to be arranging some sort of meeting. He'd try to ask her later, as eyes returned to watching the street.

When a voice was finally heard, he held his breath. It was undeniably her. He was about to cut in when he realized, with a deep sense of dread, that it was a recording. Quickly recovering, he was about to say something when the second beep sounded, followed by the second recording. Hell, who listened to voicemail nowadays anyway? He'd leave one just because he was out of options. She'd probably pick up if he called another time...

His thoughts were interrupted when he suddenly caught eye of a small, blonde figure at the docks. Too frozen to move just yet, he lowered the hand holding the phone, almost unconsciously wrapping it back into the plastic bag, and tucking it into his pocket. Irrationally, the first person that came to his mind was Turid. The little girl he'd just left in a world different than this one. But the illusion lasted only a second, it couldn't be her. The Turid he'd just tried to call was no longer a little girl.

Just as he finally realized why the figure was so familiar, who it might just be, it dove into the choppy, dark waters. Which also made no fucking sense.


"Levi!" Leif said out loud, and took off to the docks. Hopefully, he said it loud enough for Edwin to hear and follow, if he so decided.

He'd stop only upon reaching the spot from which the figure jumped, eyes frantically scouring the dark waters for any signs of someone or something. He had to come up for air at some point. Right?

"Levi!" He cried out. Levi would probably not listen from underwater, but Leif wouldn't make any assumptions considering the kid was taking a dip in such a storm. Didn't make sense for a human, made even less sense for a cat.


The waters were dark in the storm, peppered with pellets of rain. With the sunlight blocked, it made peering into the depths even more difficult, nigh impossible.

There was a sound though, of something breaking the surface, and a familiar laugh was just heard over the roar of the rainstorm.


"Fuck..." He tried to find the source of the sound, the right spot where the person had breached the surface. The rain made picking up any smells pretty difficult, and it wasn't helping him see much as well. But it allowed him to search outside during the day, so he wasn't going to complain much further. He walked toward the sound, trying to find a better angle from which he could see better.


It'd be roughly another half minute before the light swept around in Leif's direction again. Another laugh and a few splashes off to the vampire's left, about where a ship would normally dock.


There were no new clues for a while that felt like forever, but Leif wasn't about to give up.

Head whipping toward the new sounds about half a minute later, Leif cursed under his breath. Whoever it was, was fucking messing with him at this point. But he was already there, already soaked to the bone, and he still needed information, so why not go all the way, or at least as far as he could.

So he followed the sound, eyes still searching the waters for anything at all. From the new spot, perhaps he'd get better visibility, as the dock was lower. Fuck. Was Levi such a dick before? Regardless, Leif was on to something. Whoever was in the water, was definitely special. No one normal would be swimming now.


Another laugh, this one bubbling and full of pure joy, even as there was the sound of the water splashing, someone moving, maybe even swimming. The light wasn't much longer, just a bit more.

And the sound was moving west along the edge of the docks, dipping in and out of the water like some swimmer training for the Olympics.


"It's Edwin, or Dwight. Silver followed after me? No I didn't see..." Edwight cut off as Leif yelled out. "Levi? I'll be right back." He rushed out into the rain, searching frantically for Levi or Leif. The heavy downpour still cutting sight and sound.

By the occasional flash of the lighthouse, and the strange sounds of laughter, they finally ran into Leif.

"What's going on? You saw Levi?" He called over the torrents.


How could he hear all that and not see someone or something in the water? He scratched his head, and shortly after remembered that everything, literally everything, was possible. Which wasn't too reassuring.

Despite the storm, at some point he noticed someone approaching out of the corner of his eye, recognizing Edwin's figure just as the sound of laughter and splashing water started moving faster.

"Maybe... looked a lot like him." He spoke quickly, sparing the man a quick glance before eyes returned to scouring the waters. Now that there was someone out there with him, someone asking him what was going on, Leif felt a bit self conscious. Just how deranged did he look like, frantically searching for an apparently invisible swimmer during such a downpour? What if he was, indeed, a madman?

Truth was, it didn't matter too much. He was too far in to turn back now, he might as well play the part and run all the way to the end of the docks, chase the sounds as far as he could. Not like he could get any more soaked.

"He jumped into the water. He's... maybe heading that way." An arm pointed west. And then he started jogging in the same direction, trying to pick up any more sounds. It was the laughter that kept him going. The splashing could very easily be a product of his imagination, but the laughter... it was either really there, or his sanity was hopelessly lost.

"You... are you seeing anything?" He yelled as he remembered that Edwin could talk to spirits, or see spirits, or something like that, briefly turning around without stopping, which meant he gave a few jogging steps backwards before turning back to where he was heading, although he slowed down so he could still hear Edwin's answer.


Edwight needed no more prompting than Leif's vague pointing to get him moving. Levi was in the water? The Levi Edwin knew didn't seem like he'd be a strong swimmer, Loki might have had the strength for some swimming, but to swim in this storm was suicidal for all but fish.


"I can barely see the water through this rain." Edwight answered Leif's question. They could only assume the vampire's vision was how he saw anything at the moment.

"Are we crazy? What's our plan if we spot him? You diving in after him? If he's swimming in this, he would have to save us." They asked, in hopes that there was some semblance of a plan here.


Toward the end of the dock, there was the smallest glimpse of a diminutive shape in the water. Barely illuminated by the sweeping light.

He was floating on his back, arms out to either side. Laughing. However, the lighthouse also lit up Edwight and Leif for that same fleeting moment. Enough to draw the figures attention.

"Oy! What are you two doing out here?"

It wasn't coming from the figure in the water, but someone behind them on the docks.


Spirits. Leif meant spirits, or magic, any of those things he couldn't perceive. He was about to clarify his question, when he remembered all of Marianne's warnings and arm thwapping and decided it was best to leave it as it was. Best to not mention such things out loud again, even with the storm raging on.

"Maybe. There's... no plan." Leif stopped when the splashing sounds ceased. Eyes were still on the water, but he did shoot Edwin a brief glance. He hadn't considered diving in, but he also hadn't determined he wouldn't. Damn. Since when did he become so impulsive? At least he couldn't technically drown. But he wouldn't say that out loud.

He was about to say something more, about to turn to Edwin, when the sweeping light allowed for a glimpse of someone in the water. The little fucker was laughing. "There!" A hand flew through the air to point at where the small figure floated.

The voice that 'answered' wasn't Edwin's, and Leif turned around with a startle. He wasn't about to answer a stranger without a proper assessment of who or what they at least seemed to be. "Who're you?" He squinted as heavy raindrops hit his face continously, eyes trying to gauge the situation. That wasn't the best answer in terms of manners, sure. But as long as the stranger wasn't a cop, it was alright.


"I'm Tucker. I live here, and I don't know either of you. Who are you?" The man looked to have been out in the rain for a while but didn't mind it. His holey jeans were soaked, as was the tee shirt with a unicorn dragging it's butt along the 'ground' and leaving a rainbow behind.

"What are you doing out in the storm?" He tried to see what Leif had been pointing at when he came upon the pair.

Only no one was there, no one he could see. Leif had a gut instinct of someone closer to the docks, closer to his feet. Close enough to be seen by Leif, but not by the others who weren't as close to the edge. And if he looked down, he'd see a certain face just under the surface of the water, holding up a finger in a 'shhh' expression.


"We're just a couple tourist, enjoying the finest Marasong has to offer." Edwin called out, wary of the stranger. He seemed almost accusatory, as though they weren't right out side of an inn in a tourist stop. "I assume you are enjoying the great weather as well."

Edwin glanced out across the water, the lighthouse visible in the distance, but not quite lighting up them or whatever Leif had gestured towards. Hopefully he'd get a better look at the new comer when the beam came around again.


Now that was the height of 'bad side of small townness'. They having to answer some local asking who they were, some local who'd bothered to walk all the way to them under such torrential rain. They weren't in need of urgent help to justify the man heading out with such weather, and the way they were approached didn't give off the impression of a friendly local welcoming newcomers. The man was too interested in knowing who they were, and what they were looking for in the water.

Honestly, nothing seemed very 'usual' in the man standing before them. From his clothes, to the way he seemed to completely ignore the storm around them, to his inquisitive stance. Marianne had said there were other 'specials' in Marasong, and Leif wouldn't doubt for a second this was one of them, although the rain and the distance didn't allow him to pick up any relevant information about him in the air. It remained to be seen whether the man knew they were also special.

There was a strong scent in the air, only it didn't seem to come from Tucker, although in such circumstances Leif acknowledged he could be wrong. The heavy, old oceanic scent seemed to be coming from below, somewhat near his feet, and despite being literally on the shore, it absolutely didn't come from 'just' the ocean. That he was sure about.

Thankfully, Edwin answered Tucker before he could, and he said pretty much what Leif would have. Perhaps a little bit nicer than how Leif would've said it. When Edwin glanced out across the water, so did Leif, only to find the small figure was gone. Perhaps it was that fact, plus the strange scent in the air, or perhaos there was also a gut instinct at play, but Leif knew just where Levi was.

He didn't look down right away so as not to give the location away. Instead, he tucked his chin while a hand moved to rub at an eye as if something, or just a raindrop, had just fallen in. With the eye that remained open he observed just who he was chasing this whole time, the little fucker's face just beneath the surface of the water.

Between Tucker and Levi, who Leif trusted more was obvious. So even though Levi made him chase him across the docks in such a storm, Leif obliged and remained impassive, or close to that, eyes casually moving back to watch Tucker a moment after. Hopefully, any small reaction to seeing Levi that might've slipped out went unnoticed in such a storm.


Tucker had his head tilted to the side, and his gaze switched between Edwight and Leif a couple of times. "If you're lost, there's an inn at the other end of the docks. Isn't safe to be out in the weather like this. I'm heading home. I'd advise you two to get inside. Docks can get slippery in this kind of storm."

He gave them a general guide toward the inn with a vague wave of one hand. Then he started walking for the middle of the docks, where he could take the path deeper into town where the houses waited.

----

Right, perhaps he'd judged Tucker a bit too harshly, perhaps. But Leif was really glad when the man didn't ask any further questions, pointed them toward the inn and headed on his merry way home. He offered the man a nod and a mumble of 'thanks', anxious to see him leave. Maybe Tucker was just curious about strangers in the storm, but Levi's request for silence hinted it was probably best to keep their distance from him. Eyes watched Tucker until the man was a good distance away, teeth clenched. Only then did Leif look to Edwin. "He's here!" And he quickly stepped to the edge of the dock, hoping Levi was still there and not another hallucination.

 

[Rhyme]

Indy

Location: Hey Ma I'm Home (IC encounter compilation)
Tags: Out Of Words

“Wait, what—“ Indy jerked upward and moved to follow Edwin (or Dwight) but froze mid-step. No, no she was not going to get wrapped up in this. Silver seemed capable, she was rational enough from what little Indy had seen. Silver would be okay and after she called Beth, after she got them some sort of backup, she would go find Silver. If the vampire didn’t get himself and Edwin locked up at that point, Indy would go find them too. Justified enough in her mind, she dragged herself away from the door and ducked toward the phone the woman at the desk had pointed her toward. Indy gave her a smile that twisted with her shivering and was more effective as a grimace than any sign of friendliness. Turning her back to the woman at the desk, Indy eyed the phone. She remembered Beth’s number, hopefully it hadn’t changed since the last time they had spoken. Indy wasn’t even sure how long ago that was at this point—or if she was even in the same goddamn timeline. Back still angled to block the view of onlookers, Indy pulled the flask back out from her pocket and took a large swallow. Fuck this inception shit. Somehow, this call was infinitely more difficult to attempt than anything she had faced in the coven. Her fingers trembled as she carefully dialed and leaned against the wall, covering her eyes with her hand. The first ring made her jump. Indy jerked her head to the side, checking to see whether anyone was watching.

The phone rang again, while the sea glass lamp flickered softly. And then another ring, and ano- "Hello." She never posed it as a question, no. It was a statement, a fact. She had answered, simple as that.



Indy sucked in a quick breath, contemplating taking another gulp of whatever was in her flask. She didn’t expect the sound of her mother’s voice to rock her like that. Something about ground her down, made her feel like a kid again crawling back to the house after scraping her knee outside. She realized too late she had let the awkward silence stretch on too long. The breath she was holding eased out in an unsteady, rattling exhale. “Uh,” Indy grumbled. “Hey, Ma.”

Beth had nearly said goodbye, as she wasn't one for repeating herself. However, instead she heard a voice calling her Ma, a voice she recognized. Warmth flooded the tone, "Indigo. Stop grumbling, your voice is lovely. I'm guessing there's a reason for your call? I don't hear nearly enough from you."

Indy groaned at the use of her full name. “Yeah. Hey. Funny story. Remember how we—“ she paused and turned before lowering her voice to a soft whisper. “Remember how you said never come back to Marasong?”

"Oh, I never said that. If I did, I didn't mean it." One could just imagine her waving a hand dismissively. "I.. wait. Wait." Something clicked, and her tone moved up an octave. "Are you... Indigo Sunshine Sanderson. Are you coming home?"

“What? Ma—you said, I mean we ran for years to get away and I’m pretty sure you—“ Indy stopped and took a deep breath. Someone had to be listening. Beth was covering for them. Play along. “Yeah. Yeah me and a few…people”—like the sister you never told me about—“are here. Long story. We just…need some help.”

"You're already HERE?" The tone was surprised and maybe a touch of alarm. "But I haven't even prepared a welcome home party!" She moved quickly past all of that, however. "Okay, okay. I'm sitting down. One moment. Oh, oh. One moment." She sounded like someone trying to catch their breath from the surprise. "Okay, I can help. Oh my goodness, you're here! Where here? I mean.. oh this darn storm! Are you somewhere dry? Safe?"

“Surprise?” Indy winced. Daughter of the year award was practically in her pocket. “We’re at the inn? Off of… shit, I mean, fuck, I meant shoot, it’s near the clinic? We’re safe. The doc gave us meal cards but, yeah, a little waterlogged. I uh, listen could you possibly find a place for us? Are you still at the old cottage?” There was no way they would all fit at the cottage, but the idea of leaving everyone to wander about town when half the group was already lost in the storm had the hairs on Indy’s arms standing up stick straight. Barely a few hours in town and one person was already lost, the rest charging after ghosts from acid dream Narnia.

"The cottage? Oh no, that burned down some time ago." She sounded like she was thinking. It was one of those absent minded tones. "But... I can arrange for your rooms to be free for awhile. The inn is a lovely place. And of course you can stay with me at my new home. Uh, how many others are there?"

Indy's childhood home had burned down? Hadn't they just passed another house fire? "Um, there's..." She paused, fingers flexing around the phone as she tried to make a mental count. "...four? No, sorry, five--I think. Five of us. Listen, could you maybe swing by?" She wasn't sure about leaving everyone at the inn to fend for themselves yet, granted it seems everyone had already more or less run off. A cat herding five other cats. Her head was already throbbing.

"Oh, yes, of course. Let me wrap up some business at the hall, and find an .. umbrella? Honestly, when will this stop raining? My goodness, the farms are going to get washed out. Tsk tsk." One could imagine her looking out a window at the storm even though it was unlikely she'd be able to see anything but the rain. "I should be done in about... a half hour? Go and get some food from the cafe if you want. If you're not at the inn, I'll check there." And then her tone edged upward again with excitment. "Oh Sunshine! I'm so glad you're here. I'll see you soon. Love you."

"Love you too Ma, see you soon." Indy hung up the phone and rest her head against the wall, groaning. Half an hour to figure out how she was going to tell her mother everything. This was going to be one hell of a reunion.

coded by: @s e v e n

 

[Britt-21]

Rhyme Out Of Words // Briefly mentioned KodakWolf Thropian Silver-

Spoiler: Discord Encounter :)

"Hello?"

"Holy fuck it actually worked this time." she said from the other end, letting out a light laugh and shaking her head "I was afraid I wouldn't reach you being out in the middle of bumbfuck nowhere." she said a little softly to avoid the front desk from hearing her "I uh...I know my phone call is probably pretty unexpected. But uh...Hey." she said with another small laugh. She wasn't sure how to even begin the conversation, all she did was dial and hope for the best.

Joe's voice was neutral, with a touch of confusion. "Uh. Hey." And then there was a light chuckle, but he waited for her to say anything more.

Roje rolled her eyes with that smile of hers "I see you're pretty much at a loss for words too. Well fuck how would I start this...Let's just say I've been through some shit and recently -and hopefully- got out of it. That's the long story short, but, I'm sorry to call and ask you questions. There's something I need to know since I haven't really...been here so to speak. Has the moon been red at all?" she asked, recalling how the moon was red and what the Coven had to do with it.

Joe's tone had increased confusion. "What? No? Why would the moon be red?"

A groan had left her lips "Dammit. I think myself and a few others are in another time line..." Joe was reliable, trustworthy. "I'd say that "This is gonna sound crazy", but being part of the Exterminators, I doubt anything is crazy to you at this point. " rubbing her temples, she spoke "Let's say that I went from the world I know and love, to a time traveler and just arrived maybe a few hours ago or something in a forest."

Joe's tone quickly shifted to one of warning, the subtle kind, very similar to Marianne's tone at the clinic when Roje spoke of vampiric strength. "Look. I don't know what you're talking about. Sounds like you're talking about some vivid dream you had."

It wasn't hard to notice that change of tone with this hearing of hers. What in the world was going on? Why was everyone so cautious with beings like her? Biting her lip in thought, she began to laugh, though it wasn't genuine "Yeah probably. Felt too realistic I guess." this was frustrating her, were they thrown into a different set of bodies in a similar timeline to their own? "Though I can say I'm pretty lost...I'm in a place I've never seen before. Not sure how much you could help a friend out?" now it was time to think of how to speak over the phone with people... Maybe there were others listening into the conversation so perhaps saying the location was a bad idea....

Joe's tone relaxed slightly. "Yeah, sure. Where are you? How can I help?"

"I'm not sure if I'm honest. "Where am I" is the same question I've been asking myself since I got here." unfortunately she had to lie a little bit. She knew the name of the place, but there's no way she'd give it over the phone if there was a reason for such cautiousness. Getting up from the fire, she moved to a window and peeked outside it "My reception here is pretty rough and I dont have a lot of battery. Maybe if I had your address I could probably send you something? From the looks of it, this place isnt as modern as New York City is. I doubt they have any phone chargers."

"Yeah, mine's kind of screwed with at the moment, too. Reception that is. Uh, one sec." There was some rummaging of papers heard, and a drawer with a soft swear or two as Joe was obviously looking for something. "Okay, here it is. Sorry, haven't been here long and don't have it memorized. Okay, got something to write it down with?"

Roje felt relieved when something went the right way. After he asked about having anything to write down the address with, she got up and moved to the desk, asking for a pen and thanking the girl up front before shaking part of her jacket off to expose her arm and was ready to use it as paper "Yep." as soon as she was done with the call later on, she'd save it within her phone in her notes for a little while. "Thank you, Joe."

"No problems. It's three one four, west docks, Marasong, New Zealand two seven four two." He paused for a moment before adding, "Let me know if you need me to repeat that."

Roje's hazel eyes seemed to have widened. He was in Marasong as well! Holy shit things were adding up and it was making her so happy. Writing it along her arm, she kept staring at it as if it was her silver lining and the only thing keeping her afloat "That was loud and clear Chief." the excitement that was welling up within her was trying to break itself out. "I have a feeling I may not be too far from ya. Sounds familiar. But I'll ask around and see if anyone could point me in the direction. I'm glad you picked up. At least something went right today." she joked, letting out a laugh to lighten the mood some more

"Glad I could help." His tone had typical Joe bemusement of the confused but happy kind. "Did you need anything else?"

"That is all I needed. I'm gonna preserve whatever battery life I got left and hopefully I can see you soon. I'll tell you all about my crazy vivid dreams when I get there."

"Okay. See you then." And the call disconnected a moment later.

Roje looked at the address on her arm and she smiled "I can't fucking believe it dude..." she muttered as she handed the pen back to the girl -Seraphim?- and thanked her for it. Suddenly, Leif shouted for Levi and rushed out, followed by Ed. They couldn't have waited till the storm ended? Granted I don't blame them, I almost ran out too knowing that Joe was actually in Marasong. Indy had shouted for them but it was too late, they were gone and it was obvious she wasn't going to follow them into that outdoor shower. Something was up with this place, people they knew were stationed here, but all they've met is people they've never seen before. It felt like everyone was grasping at straws just to feel some sort of connection, to feel like they were back in the world they knew as home. But unfortunately, Roje already figured that they were in a different timeline, or even a different world. The moon was no longer red at night, her phone also had her dad as a recent contact...Never would she contact him. Never Ever. In the past years she never contacted him for anything, which meant it was possible that the Roje that existed here had a better life with her father. Or at least that's what she hoped.

"I'll set things up with you soon, girly." said Roje to Seraphim "Sorry for taking so long." she gave her a closed mouth smile and turned toward her sister who was now on the phone. Due to the eavesdropping vampire she was, she began to tune into the phone call, listening as a woman answered on the other end, only for Indy to call her "Ma", prompting her to almost roll her eyes Guess that's our "mother" she bitterly thought before moving toward her, gently touching her arm and examining both her facial features with her tone. According to Indy, her mother tried running for years away with her, but yet her mom was denying that fact. It's starting to seem like anything we say is met with denial or secrets... I'm thinking that using our phones is a bad idea. Talk like this is made for behind closed doors without technology. she sighed softly and shook her head.

The conversation continued and the vampire stood there, dropping her hand from her sister and sliding them into her pants pockets. Her stomach twisted in a knot when Indy suggested if she could swing by, to which the woman agreed and they soon ended their chatter. "Well I guess that's gonna happen." she muttered "Guess I'm finally gonna meet the person you call mom, sis." her hazel eyes shifted to the side, catching glance of Silver who was seeming to try to relax. Couldn't blame her though.​

 

[OrganicUFO]

Beatrice Welles
Location: The forest on the outskirts of Marasong
With: Larry BillieRoss silverwhere
The rain had entirely seeped through Beatrice’s clothes. She was soaking, and the darkness was beginning to close in around her. She felt incredibly claustrophobic despite the swaths of forest and space around her. The situation brought Beatrice back to her childhood. When her older sister was already training in magic. Beatrice remembered a particular day she’d wanted to sit and watch her sister train. Beatrice always wanted to watch, and she was always denied. Her sister said it was because Beatrice would distract her. But that never stopped Beatrice from asking, and on this particular day she would not stop. Finally, after following her sister around all morning begging, she dragged Beatrice into a closet and locked her in. The feeling of being trapped and unable to see was something Beatrice would always carry with her, and in times like this, where everything felt like too much to handle, it’s no wonder the memory came back.

Suddenly Beatrice sees Bill falling, and she is snapped out of the childhood memories circling her mind. Before she can catch up to Bill and offer her help, she sees Aódh pick Bill up by the collar and say something the rain drowns out. The sight of it alone startles Beatrice, and she runs over to the pair. As she approaches, she quickly sees Aódh is in a mood. A bad one. His expression makes the hairs on the back of Beatrice’s neck stand up, and a look of fear flashes across her face. Beatrice doesn’t know who to talk to first, and the tension in the air only makes her more uneasy. Despite her nerves, Beatrice steps into the pair’s sphere.
“Bill. Aódh. You guys okay?” She asks, worried for Bill’s physical well-being and Aódh’s temper.
The only thing going through Beatrice’s mind as she waits for an answer however is that she needs to get the fuck out of this forest.

 

[BillieRoss]

Bill
Location: In the depths of the forest
With: OrganicUFO , Larry , Collidias Rex , [also Hatsu but I don't speak to him]

It had happened pretty suddenly. A change in the terrain, or the wind, or maybe just that she was too tired to pay attention to where she was going had her sliding and falling face first in the mud.

How dignified.

Bill groaned, lying there for a few seconds silently lamenting her existence. On instinct she felt for her wand, and felt an icy fear go down her spine. It was gone. It’d probably slipped out with the force of her fall. She tried to quell her panic, knowing that in the rain and mud it would be difficult (but not impossible, surely not impossible) to find. She cast around for it, hands sliding through the wet mud, finger tips just brushing what she thought might have been the familiar gnarled wood of the wand-

“GET UP,” someone snapped, and she was suddenly being hoisted bodily into the air, like she was a rag doll. She flailed in a panic, coming face to face with the Irishman.

The naked fury in his face was chilling. Something was wrong. Something was very badly wrong. If he tried anything, she didn’t have her wand to keep her safe.

She was vibrating (or maybe shivering) with energy. She didn’t want to admit it to herself, but she was frightened of this tall, strange man, who was apparently strong enough to pick her up like she didn’t weigh more than a kitten. With her wand he’d be no match for her. Without it, she didn’t want to think about it. Any spell she cast would be half as strong and a third as controlled.

But she was angry, furious that he thought she could just be picked up and dangled around like a rag doll. And tired, and wet, and covered in mud, and Bill had never kept a good hold on her emotions.

She put both her hands on the irishman’s chest and gave him a shove, backing away a little herself. Putting distance between them. (Putting distance between her and wherever her wand had gone-)

“Let's be going, I don't want to be out in this fuckin' rain much longer,” she heard Aódh say, snapping her out of her reverie. He was still too close, face still too angry.

“I told you not tae fuckin' touch me!” she snapped back, her voice cracking with the pitch of it, “And I don’t see why yer in such a tizzy, I’m the one who’s covered in mud, it's not my fault that you and yer mate decided to go galavantin' off into the woods in the middle of a-”

She startled as Beatrice suddenly appeared in her periphery, trying to calm down the situation. “Bill. Aódh. You guys okay?”

Bill took a steadying breath, trying to shake the worst of the mud from her hands. “Fine,” she said, and knelt back down on the ground, feeling around for her wand. “I just dropped something. You all go head back, I’ll be right behind ye as soon as I find it. Gift from my grandmother, can't lose it, you understand.” It wasn’t technically a lie.

She glanced back up at Aódh, hoping to find the man a little calmer than last time, and then turned back to Wiri. "Go. Ye know the forest better than anyone else, lead 'em back tae town. I'm capable of findin' my own way."

The 'as long as I find my wand' went unsaid. So did the 'please, Christ, get this man away from me'.

 

[Collidias Rex]

Rawiri Reaves
​

Tagging: BillieRoss Larry silverwhere OrganicUFO

---

"Hatsu, you daft bastard! What the feck are you doing?!"

Something was wrong, but it was a different kind of wrong now.

Wiri kept his eyes on Aódh as he moved, but the sound of rain was crystal clear in his ears. Drumming, drumming, drumming in the background to a staccato of footsteps. He smelled mud, and a tinge of sea salt on the breeze. That was the thing about enhanced senses - they taught you to feel the world in a new way, even when you didn't have them any more. You could see the world in color for only a split second, but you'd never forget what it was like, and you'd never stop looking for more. It was as much a sensation as it was a way of thinking. His eyes were glued to Aódh, tracing his footsteps weaving through the trees. The smell and taste of sea salt grew faintly stronger as he ran, which told him his rough distance from the sea. Bill and Beatrice's footsteps beat through the mud alongside and behind him, rhythmic then arrhythmic as they followed Aódh around trees and bushes. His shoulders grew colder as the day grew older, a familiar chill setting into the water drenching him. It was sharp and frigid, and the feeling kept him focused. As the storm beat down he felt the world around him in high definition for a moment. The land itself whispered in the wind, in the soil, in the rain. Something was wrong. Wiri spent a lot of time watching people and the way they moved, and Aódh didn't move right. His gait was unusual. People zig-zagged, but Aódh just ... zag-zagged. There was a kind of energy in his step that didn't feel like 'people'.

And then there was something else. A different drum-beat hiding in the rain, one-two one-two pause one-two one-two. Four legs. Wiri's head snapped to the treeline ahead of Aódh to follow it, catching a glimpse of black shooting between the trees. Long, large, black in color. Wisps of black trailing it. A tail. A horse?

What the fuck?

A horse. A fucking horse. Where had he seen that horse before?

He heard another sound, and his eyes snapped back like his gaze was on a rubber-band. A gasp, a familiar thump of something heavy hitting the ground, but with a squelch as the mud caught it. Aódh had finally caught up to Hatsu, though nobody seemed particularly happy about this turn of events.

"You really shouldn't sneak up on people like that."

Hatsu almost seemed to be babbling, but one look at Aódh told him exactly why. Wiri slowed as he approached, carefully noting the look in Aódh's eyes and the furious arch of his brow.

"Fellas," Wiri gasped as he walked toward the pair, "ay, in this weather we gotta-"

And then he heard a splash behind him, pausing mid-sentence as he whirled around to catch Bill landing face-first in a puddle. He seized for a moment, like he expected the moment's tension to snap - and it almost did as Aódh marched forward and hauled Bill to her feet.

"GET UP ..."

Wiri rocked back on his rear leg as Aódh moved past him. He'd braced himself unconsciously, with one foot forward and half-prepared to leap ... somewhere.

“Let's be going, I don't want to be out in this fuckin' rain much longer.”

“I told you not tae fuckin' touch me!” Bill seemed to snap, but it was clear that she sensed what Wiri did. Something was very wrong with Aódh. Wiri glanced over his shoulder as the other woman approached, trying to catch the two up and trying to keep a level head, it seemed. In the distance, the sound of hoofs disappeared into the static patter of the storm and rain. Too many things were happening.

"Go."

Wiri returned a glance to Bill as she gestured.

"Ye know the forest better than anyone else, lead 'em back tae town. I'm capable of findin' my own way."

He studied her for a moment. He couldn't quite make out what what was going on behind her eyes, but he understood enough. He approached Aódh with a short wave, but stopped at a distance. He met Aódh's eyes and mounted a tired half-smile - friendly without being too smug about their circumstances. Wiri wasn't much one for pissing matches or staredowns, but when someone started getting irritated or aggressive, Wiri couldn't afford to show any fear or submission. You couldn't let people think they could push you around - though at the same time, he didn't want to upset Aódh any further.

"C'mon Irish. Moneybags here owes us a feed, and fuck am I gonna make the most of it. I reckon we'll feel better with hot meal, an open fire and a change of bloody clothes." He lazily pointed with one hand. He could smell the sea. Feel it. North. "I know the quickest way to get back. We'll shoot north to the beach, follow it east and have a quick jaunt across across the docks to the Loving Spoon. I reckon our runaway buddy here could shout us a few cold beers once we're nice and toasty in front of the fire."


He nodded to Beatrice before he left. "Hey. You can follow us back if you like," and I really hope you don't, "or you can stay with your friend. Just make sure the two of you don't fuck around out here for long in this weather."

He didn't like the thought of leaving the women in the woods, considering everything that was happening today - but in the moment it seemed a preferable option to travelling with an increasingly irritated Aódh. If the two stuck together, that would at least give them one another for company.

With that he gestured to Hatsu and Aódh, and began heading north.

It was true that when in doubt, you could find Marasong by heading north and following the beach. It was also true that this route would see them travelling within metres of the ocean. And in case Aódh's mood worsened ...

I don't know what the fuck he is, Wiri mused, but I can take him while I've got the sea at my feet.

Or so he suspected.

He really hoped he wouldn't need to test that theory.

 

[silverwhere]

Hatsu Black
Location: OOF
Tags: Out Of Words Larry BillieRoss OrganicUFO Collidias Rex
​

Maybe Hatsu didn't want to get dinner anymore. He has the tendency to accidently cause trouble and sometimes that leads to angry people. After a while you can pinpoint when people were angry and they pointed at Aódh. Hatsu had turned back to Aódh to see if he was making any moves to leave the woods. The other man had paused and had his eyes close. He looked like he was trying to have a moment to himself- a moment to calm himself. So when Bill so lovingly fell and made a splash and reawaken Aódh from his attempted peace; Hatsu knew that Aódh was angry. Hatsu was certain that he much rather go back to the inn then eat dinner with Aódh now. Angry people made for tense social interaction and Hatsu was not here for that. Aódh made his way over to Bill and pulled her up- "GET UP..." Aódh growled. He didn't help her up but simply picked her up like she was a kitten and then placed her on her feet. Yep. He was not going to fuck with Aódh. There was no way that he could take him in a fight and he was no going to risk making him even more angry. But Bill had other things on her mind. She was ready for a fight.

“I told you not tae fuckin' touch me! And I don’t see why yer in such a tizzy, I’m the one who’s covered in mud, it's not my fault that you and yer mate decided to go galavantin' off into the woods in the middle of a-” Hatsu opened his mouth to retort back that this wasn't his fault. He didn't ask them to follow him into the woods. He would have been fine on his own- maybe. He knew he didn't think this whole thing through, but if he died in the woods that would be all on him. Thankfully Beatrice interrupted both him and Bill. If she didn't he would have been adding more fuel to the fire. Hatsu took a deep breathe himself now. He didn't need to be angry either but he could feel the previous frustration he had coming back.

At this point he just hoped everyone would just forget his offer for dinner and everyone will just go to their respected homes. This would give everyone a chance to calm down. Then maybe sometimes next week they could have a nice and dry dinner together. The universe was against Hatsu as Wiri tried to calm the situation by using the mention of a free meal provided by Hatsu. Maybe the mention of warmth and food would calm Aódh but he really wasn't sure if bringing him up would do any. Hatsu wasn't really sure what ticked Aódh off in the first place but he didn't want his name to be tossed around the angry man.

"I know the quickest way to get back. We'll shoot north to the beach, follow it east and have a quick jaunt across across the docks to the Loving Spoon. I reckon our runaway buddy here could shout us a few cold beers once we're nice and toasty in front of the fire." Great, a quick way out the rain and to the Loving Spoon. A warm place with food- however that meant he had to go on a nice stormy beach stroll with an angry man. Wiri had offered the girls a way out of the tense situation and that made sense. The two already knew each other and if you can offer them release then do it. However he wished that Wiri had offer Hatsu a quick escape as well. However, Wiri was aiming to collect and Hatsu couldn't buy him food it he wasn't there. When Wiri gestured to both him and Aódh, Hatsu knew he really wouldn't be able to get out of this situation. WIth a sigh he started to follow Wiri as he shifted the safe in his arms. Hatsu made sure to put his tongue between his teeth- a physical reminder that he should keep his mouth shut during this stroll.

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Ruh Roh SpaghettiOs​

Marius seemed free from whatever compulsion he had earlier to walk into the ocean. The older man was easily guided by Sage, though they had to move slowly due to Marius' shuffling gate, the wet sand, and the still pouring rain. It did make the world outside much more visible with Boy's new echo effect.

Once back inside, things were more muted. Sounds didn't light up as frequently, but enough to guide the dog in ways his blindness couldn't. Augie waited where he was, and welcomed the dog back with a good rub of Boy's head and ears. "Hey Boy. You're going to have so many homes you can stay in soon. What did I tell you about being the town's mascot, eh?"

Augie's tone was upbeat, but Boy had the sense it was one of those attempts to convince himself things were going to be fine. It was good so many wanted Boy around, and Augie shouldn't feel selfish. So the man changed the subject as he moved to shake out the blankets and let the wet ones air dry. "Sure hope this rain stops soon. It's so weird, in the middle of the day. And it looks more like evening out."

He had his own theories, and with Boy being just a dog, he could freely share them. "You know, when I first moved here, I was told Marasong had its own magic." Augie laughed. "Now, after some of the things I've seen? Kinda think they're right. Like there seems to always be something in the air, or water. Dunno. I try to keep my head down, and my nose out of others' business. Best way around here."

All the towels were hung up, and he even laid out some fresh blankets for Boy. "Let me get you something to eat. Get us both something to eat." Augie didn't mean he was going out in the storm to get some, no, they still had some non perishables stored in the little cave which would do just fine. "How about.. some Vienna sausages and..." He was rummaging around through a box of canned and dry goods he kept stocked fairly well. "And... ooh Spaghettios!"

The dog's bowl was retrieved and Augie dished a bit of both into it after opening the cans. He gave Boy more than half, like usual, leaving about a third for himself. "Eat up! Maybe when the storm stops, we can treat ourselves to some of Tilly's tidbits!"




OOC Information

Riley KodakWolf : The unease ebbs a little with Sage and Marius gone. Food is always a good distraction, and is there anything better than napping to the sound of a steady rain? Augie will drift to sleep shortly after eating, and you think maybe the rain is starting to let up by then. It's still pretty steady but not a drenching downpour. However, there's also a very soft underlying whisper you cannot shake. You aren't hearing it with your ears, or are you? It's very difficult to pin down with the way the cave can echo sounds.

It might just be in your mind.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
It's Time To Go​

Wiri, Aódh, and Hatsu began to head North, while Beatrice and Bill lingered behind. Well, at the speed the boys moved, the witches were left behind before they knew it. The rain was starting to finally show the smallest of signs of letting up. The downpour was more of a steady beating rain. It was a small change, but still progress.

Didn't help ease the puddles and mud still hiding Bill's wand. By now, it was even difficult to tell exactly where she had fallen, thanks to Aódh's helpful assistance. Hopefully, the wand is heavy enough to not be carried by some of the moving puddles. If they were going to find it, they might need some extra light, and while the storm was lessening, it wasn't a good to bet on the sun shining through any time soon.

The men meanwhile, were finding their way fairly easily. Though once they reached the more northern part of the woods, where the trees thinned out enough to get an idea of the land, it didn't quite jive with Wiri's assessment. There was the beach down a slope of sand and soil, but the docks weren't to the East.

What was toward the East, were two men carefully making their way back up toward town. There was the old man who was frequently seen in the cafe during the day, Marius. The one who had run out shouting when the fire alarm sounded. With him was another man, Wiri recognized as Sage, the old man's son. He was helping steady Marius and kept guiding him along despite the rain pelting their faces.




OOC Information

Hatsu silverwhere : It has been quite the day, and even though it's nearly as dark as night, you know there's still several hours until the sun really sets. The idea of going back to your hotel room and collapsing on the bed is nearly overwhelming. Still, there's always Tilly's food, and nothing can soothe one's emotional aches like your favorite dessert.

Aódh Larry : Rage, rage against the dying of the... no, better not. Your hands are already aching, as if talons want to spring forth in the blink of an eye. And something in the back of your head keeps egging you onward. It rises higher and higher, and then, as if a switch had been turned off, it's gone. The desire to let all that fury free just fades away. A coolness seeps into your bones, chilling the fire inside, and leaving you almost shaking with the sudden cold.

Bill BillieRoss : You're a bit lost as to where you had fallen, much less exactly where your wand is. Perhaps with the greenwitch's help, you can do some type of location spell. Though there is the little voice in the back of your mind reminding you of the still unidentified extra oomph of magic which caused this torrential rain in the first place.

Beatrice OrganicUFO : There's that melody in the back of your mind, only it isn't quite as gentle. It thrums with a sense of righteous indignation. It whispers with emotions, not words. You're being left behind, again. You're being underestimated, again.

Rawiri Collidias Rex : You start heading North, but realize you're more East than you thought. To get to the docks, you'll need to actually venture a bit West once you're out of the woods. The black horse lingers on your mind, pestering you, because you're absolutely certain you know who it was.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Marasong Inn​

Seraphim notices the general lull with those remaining inside the inn. It'd really help if she knew how many rooms would be needed. So, when ti was quiet, she spoke up. "Excuse me, do you know how many are in your party, and how many rooms you'll need?" She didn't know who might want to pair up, or who wanted a single room to themselves. Thankfully, they weren't in a busy period, and likely wouldn't be with this rain.

"And uh, sorry, if you can give me your names, I can get everything ready and just hand your room keys over." She didn't really like dilly dallying around, but also didn't want to put pressure on the guests. However, it did look like they'd appreciate getting somewhere dry, where they could take off those wet clothes and.. oh, another though! "We do have complimentary robes as well, and a laundry service."

Her tone of voice ended nearly everything with a slightly higher octave, making it sound either like a question, or she was just very bubbly and excited to get them their rooms. "If the rain doesn't stop, I can also send someone over to the cafe with any orders. We have a little menu.. here, if you want to pick something." She set a one page pamphlet out on the counter, with simple menu items on either side. One had breakfast and brunch, and the other had lunch and dinner items.




OOC Information

Roje Britt-21 : You're feeling pretty good after filling up earlier. Your senses have returned, things are looking up. Even the rain seems a little less intense than it was a few minutes ago. There is a pleasant, light and upbeat melody playing softly in the back of your mind.

Indy Rhyme : After you hang up with your mom, things feel calmer somehow. Inside, the churning eases slightly, like the rain. There might even be a small sliver of light filtering through the clouds outside, or maybe the seaglass lamp is pulsing softly. Either way, you have about a half hour, though if your mom is anything like you remember, it could be closer to an hour. And yes, your stomach just growled.

Silver Silver- : It's nice and quiet by the fire. The flickering fireglass casts relaxing little shadows, even against your closed eyelids. After a couple of minutes of your small meditation, there's a fainter melody in the back of your mind. Something calming, light, with the sensation of a thin but warm blanket being wrapped across your shoulders.

When you open your eyes, there is an actual blanket draped over your shoulders. A dark haired girl smiles at you before turning to chat with Seraphim. She's wearing a black leather jacket, worn with normal wear and tear. Underneath is a flowing blouse, with ankle-length riding breeches, and knee high black riding boots.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Dock of the Bay​

The rain started to seem less monsoon and more like a heavy rain. There was even a very small hint of light shooting through some of the clouds, but it was still pretty darn dark considering the time of day. It did help, however minutely, to see the face still in the water just by the dock at Leif's feet. The familiar face grinned, while still submerged just barely under the surface of the water. And when a half minute had passed, the small figure bobbed upward to grab onto the edge of the dock itself.

"He gone?" His voice was quiet, and he looked to where he had known Tucker to be standing just a bit ago. Blonde hair was soaked and clung to the sides of his face. Only upon confirming the man was indeed not there, did he start to hoist himself up out of the water and onto the wooden planks. "He's up to no good, that one. Never is." He sat facing the ocean, legs over the side, with his head tilting backward to eye the man who had been chasing him the length of the docks.

"Why were you chasing after me? Did you want to swim, too?"




OOC Information

Edwight Thropian : Once you're closer, you can't sense a spirit from Levi, not like before. There's a presence, and it's old, perhaps even older than Leif, but in the small figure sitting in front of you, there's an innocence that comes usually only from youth, or something new.

Leif KodakWolf : You smell it even stronger now, old ocean, something from the deep dark depths. However, it's wrapped up in a mix of seaweed, kelp, and a strange sense of excitement you wouldn't expect from a scent so ancient.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​

 

[KodakWolf]

Leif Hjalkarssen
Tags: Out Of Words and Thropian
Location: Meeting an old friend, at the docks
(Via Discord)​

Leif knew that one's mind could be an expert at playing tricks on itself. So he knew that because he was seeking a familiar figure so fiercely, the possibility that the person that jumped off the docks wasn't actually Levi, and only vaguely resembled him, was real. He hadn't fully convinced himself even when eyes laid upon the face beneath the water for the first time. But once Tucker was gone and the figure smiled, Leif was sure.

Eyes were glued on Levi, and Leif only nodded vaguely when he asked if Tucker was gone, taking a vague mental note of his remark about the man, instantly feeling glad his judgement wasn't wrong, or at least not entirely wrong. Leif watched as Levi hoisted himself up and out of the water, not really realizing a half smile had lingered on his face. It remained there, even when Levi asked why they were chasing after him, showing no obvious signs that he recognized neither Leif nor Edwin.

Leif was just really, really glad to find another familiar face, one that for some reason hadn't been teleported with the rest of the group, glad that he hadn't imagined the figure diving into the dark waters, glad that Levi really was where Marianne said he could be. And if Levi was really there, he was probably getting closer to Chase too.

The deep, old ocean scent was stronger than ever, however mixed with other, more mundane beachy scents. This Levi was certainly not a cat, although there was something about his eyes, about the way he spoke, that didn't tell of an ancient creature of the seas.

Leif could've lingered a long time on those thoughts, he could try to fish among his billions of memories for one that could help him pinpoint just what kind of creature Levi could be, but his mind was too busy, too fixated or too clouded by something else to muster that. Not even Levi's questions had been fully processed, so the answer Leif gave him wasn't composed of a structured phrase, not even words. It was just a wuffle.


Green eyes blinked at the sound, his head tilting to the side rather than just backward. "Huh." It was clear he had heard that particular sound, or some close resemblance of the sound. However, he didn't comment further, but did move to stop looking at the pair from the upside down point of view.

He moved to stand up, though a glance was tossed in the direction Tucker had gone. Just a momentary look, then Levi was straightening up to his full five feet in height. Hands on his hips, expression turned a bit more cautious now.

"Whaddya want?"


It was Levi's reaction that made Leif realize what he'd just done, and he, too, blinked rather surprised while Levi moved to stand up and face them.

"We're..." He tossed a glance toward Edwin, who'd apparently already found who he was looking for and maybe was or was not joining him in searching from Chase from now on, then continued. "...I'm looking for Chase. I heard there's something wrong with him" And then added, before Levi asked the next obvious question. "I'm a friend."


"Yes, it seems we have a few friends who've popped up in this town, or at least people who match the look and name. I was friends with a young man who looked like you, named Leviathan Black, though I don't think he was quite the swimmer you are." Edwin explained. "It was strange being told that he was here."

He glanced towards Leif, hoping that the vampire's hopes weren't going to be as dashed as Edwin's were at finding the man he was searching for.


Levi's gaze narrowed just a bit, when the blond man said he was looking for Chase. It was a protective look, trying to quickly discern just why someone would... then he said he was a friend. The change in the man's expression was instantaneous. Eyes went a bit brighter, his scowl disappeared, and there was something like relief in its place.

He didn't say anything right away, as the bearded man was speaking. A small bouncing in place, and he looked fair to bursting to say something, which he did as soon as the one with the face sweater finished.

"That's my name! Well, the Leviathan part. Don't have a.." He suddenly censored himself, and couldn't stop from glancing around. He seemed to deliberately pause on a couple of spots, but with the steady rain, and the distance between Levi and whatever he was looking at, neither Edwin or Leif would be able to figure out what gave the small man pause.

"Well.. We should get out of the rain. Kinda hard to hear unless you're listening real close. I know of a place, not too far." He spoke slowly, with a very faint emphasis on a couple of words. And he started to head toward town, going by the Western end of the docks, which would take them by the Careless Shark Pub in passing.

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

Leif tensed up a bit when Levi narrowed his eyes. He felt a mix of apprehension and excitement, as Levi had just acknowledged Chase, but at the same time showed some distrust toward them. Then, when the young man seemed relieved at Leif's claim that he was a friend, Leif relaxed too, a small smile forming again on his face. He was trying to mentally prepare to have to convince Levi further, but the kid thankfully seemed satisfied with just 'I'm a friend'.

He shot Edwin a glance when the man spoke, unsure of whether that was the right approach. That was, sounding crazy again. But it was already done, and perhaps it was better than lying anyway. Again, Levi didn't look distrustful, but rather excited. The first name was the same, the looks were the same, the scent wasn't quite the same... it was something, right?

Then Levi paused, clearly stopping himself from saying too much, looking around as if someone or something was watching. Upon gazing in the same general directions, Leif didn't see nor smell anything, the rain certainly not helping much. It put him on alert, and he suddenly remembered all of Marianne's warnings all over again. When the young man spoke again, the underlying message was clear.

"Course." Leif promptly answered with a nod. Funny how the rain was barely bothering him now, but he was quick to follow Levi. He'd look around a few times while walking, half expecting to spot whatever it was that Levi was looking at, but without success. It wasn't an immediate threat, or Levi'd be running, not walking, right?

He was also preparing for the very real possibility that Chase wouldn't recognize him, even if they did manage to fix whatever was wrong with him. While Levi seemed excited, he didn't seem to recognize him, nor Edwin, which made Leif think of another timeline. One in which Levi and Chase had probably never met with either of them. It'd be disheartening, probably saddening, probably frustrating. Not to mention concerning, as it'd mean they still had to figure out a means of returning to their original timelines. But regardless if he'd ever recognize Leif, this was Chase, and Leif had to help him. He wanted to, and he owed him that. Once that was accomplished, he'd worry about everything else.

 

[Larry]

Aódh McFaol
Location: On the beach, north of Marasong.
Mood: Barely restrained...
Interactions: Collidias Rex | silverwhere .
Mentions: BillieRoss | OrganicUFO .​

The youth followed the assured stride of the ranger in front of him, the dour countenance of Hatsu likewise in tow behind Wiri. Yet, Aódh was not fully there in the moment, discomfited by the blue-bolting surge of anger that washed over him when they caught up to the piteous homeowner, entranced as he was to follow a black horse, of all things, deeper into the forest. This creeping irritation, this tortuous annoyance that coiled its way around his body, threatened to unleash parts of himself that he would rather keep hidden and out of the sight of civilians. But, as much as the Irishman wished for it to be otherwise, he was losing this battle. As the intensity of the rain subsided, and troublesome flaws dipped in fervour, the decrease only served to kindle the flame that burned within the young man even more, his hand rising quickly to his mouth to stifle the strained growls threatening to loose from his throat.

You delude yourself.

The voice rang out from the recesses of the young man's mind, limpid and audible enough to prompt his eyes to scan the rain-smothered environment, wondering to himself could it have come from Wiri or Hatsu: their ambling, tacit forms suggesting otherwise.

Do you think yourself to be some sort of monk, finding fulfilment and purpose in fighting your baser urges? the voice mockingly questioned, snidely aware to the tottering resistance that Aódh put up.

"Shut...the fuck up..." he growled mutteringly, his gaze darting between his two colleagues lest they glance in his direction.

The voice, aping his own, though couched in a more arrogant, feral tone, laughed haughtily at his response.

Every time, without fail, when the urge is strongest, you do your best to fight it, the voice continued, yet you enjoy the power, the strength, the speed...why not indulge yourself?

Then, the voice rang silent, and the lull in it's taunting was well appreciated by the young man, who breathed a sigh of relief for this brief reprieve.

He then thought back to the incident with Bill, and that the next time he got the chance, he'd have to apologise for how he so rudely and gruffly dragged the Scotswoman to her feet after she had fallen, and to Beatrice, for acting in such a way. The contents of that apology, and the reasons needed to be given to explain his sudden shift, would need a orator's spin and guile to sprinkle the truth amongst the necessary lies needed to be told.

Without warning, then, a palsying shock coursed its way around his body, sticking him stiffly to the spot, the three of them having made their way onto the beach after emerging from the tree-line. Poor Hatsu, the voice trailed out and, as though Aódh were a marionette, forced his gaze to rest on the soaked, clothes-clung figure of the plaintive young man.

He's endured so much today, would it not be better, for him and us, to kill two birds with one stone? Haply you've been able to avoid feeding, but it's time enough now...to get a TAAaAaSSsSTttTEEe!!!!

A tensing of his body took place suddenly, cementing him even more to the spot, his shoes burrowing ever more into the sand beneath. Aódh's teeth ground together as pain, emanating specifically from his left and legs due to the rapid expansion of his muscles, causing groans to elicit, long reined in, from the youth. Turning his left wrist over, the Irishman rushed his right hand across, fastening his grip around the area just below the hand, almost as though he were trying to dam the feeling from pervading any further. To no avail however, were his efforts, since the palish-pink forms of his nails soon darkened and sharpened, extending outwards into effierced talons. Most frighteningly of all, to the young man, was the unconscious grinding of his teeth, the sound being induced by the elongation of all the various types, particularly the canines, coping his bottom teeth below.

But then everything stopped.

Each part of his body affected by the impulse soon reverted back to normal, as though the neurons had made a mistake and misfired due to some incorrect stimuli.

Aódh collapsed to his knees, sand brushing against his sweatpants, the warmth that irascible feeling provided soon leaving for the elements to wrap their gelid grip about him.

"Go...go...on ahead...without me..." he spat out between frantic breaths in an effort to steady himself, "I'll be with ye...in a moment: don't worry, I'll catch up."

There was something wrong with Marasong.

And if he didn't get a grasp on what exactly it was, and soon, the consequences for himself, and others, would be high.

 

[KodakWolf]

Riley Adler / Boy
Locaton: Home
Tags: Out Of Words ​

Tail wagged when Augie rubbed his head and ears, and Boy was trying to figure out a way to tell Augie, Sage or both of how he came upon Marius. How the old man was seemingly trying to walk into the ocean as if taking a walk in the park. He’d just realized none of them knew that, and strangely none seemed to wonder. Unless it was something that happened frequently, but Boy expected them to at least mention it, if that was the case.

When Augie spoke, distracting the dog from his thoughts, the man’s feelings spoke louder to him than his voice. It even made the relaxed tail wag stop, and Boy started associating that enhanced sensing of others’ emotions to his new echo vision. He couldn’t quite explain it, as the communication with his magic was very subtle and happened in his own mind, but it had to be that. He couldn’t tell Augie that he wouldn’t abandon him for a warm and dry home, nor to replace Marius’ lost dog, he could only show Augie that later on. So he was happy when the man changed subjects, which seemed to improve his mood.

With Augie moving around to hang up the blankets and towels, there was a bit more sound in the cave. Still not as much as outside, but better than it was a minute ago, allowing the dog to observe Augie’s actions with interest. When the man talked about the rain, and that it looked like evening outside, Boy’s eyes switched to the entrance of the cave, where the world looked so much clearer. Still, he couldn’t tell whether it was night or day, not from sight at least, so he was left imagining and remembering what a dark storm looked like. He always liked those, truth be told, it always made home feel cozier. And even if his current home wasn’t as dry, as clean or as well furnished as his previous homes, it was still safe shelter from the storm, and the sounds of rain and the mental picture Boy created of it made the place all the nicer and more special.

The tail wagged excitedly when Augie laughed and talked about Marasong having its own magic, and the dog sniffed and nudged his hands, even tapping its front paws on the ground a few times. So he wasn’t the only one to notice something strange, something beyond his own magic! Unfortunately, Augie didn’t detail his experiences in Marasong, but Boy kept a good mental note of his words.

Then they moved on to food, which Boy really wouldn’t complain about. Tail wagging, he watched as Augie moved to get the food, and only got up and approached his bowl when it was set on the floor for him. Food was a good distraction, as were the rain sounds outside. By the time Boy was done eating, the storm seemed to be abating, but it wasn’t over just yet. It was for sure the worst storm Boy had witnessed ever since his arrival in Marasong months ago.

Perhaps it was the lack of distraction from the food now that he was done eating, perhaps also the weakening of the storm outside, but Boy’s uneasiness returned as the dog heard something strange. A whisper maybe? He couldn’t make out words, barely even a voice. Maybe it was another rain related sound, or something in the cave, but as the dog paced around, it didn’t change a bit. His echo vision was also not activated by it, which wasn’t unexpected, as it was so, so quiet. As if coming from his own head. Could it be his magic? It was different from anything he’d experienced before.

Shaking off his whole body in a futile attempt at shaking off the sound, the dog trotted nervously to Augie, who was now sound asleep. No, he wouldn’t wake him for that, he wasn’t a child having a nightmare in the middle of the night. Head whipping around as he checked his surroundings once again with his limited vision, the dog slowly sat down beside Augie. A minute or so later, he’d lie down, curling up against Augie’s form, both for comfort and reassurance, and for warmth, as he was still a bit wet from the storm. And yet another minute or so later, he’d finally lay his head down on the stone floor, making sure to face the opening of the cave.

Despite the still present uneasiness, he was still enchanted by his new echo vision, and eyes fixated on the raindrops and shapes he could see so well outside. Even as he started drifting off, he’d blink several times, forcing his eyes to stay open for however long he could, because he didn’t know just how much longer he’d be allowed that small, but huge pleasure.

 

[Rhyme]

Indy

Location: Hey Ma I'm Home (IC encounter compilation)
Tags: Out Of Words Silver- Britt-21

During a very tumultuous few weeks, Indy had not spent much time evaluating her relationship with her mother. To say that was exclusive to the past few weeks would be misleading; from the moment they found her father and her mother had returned to Marasong without her, any temptation to reevaluate her childhood was swept up in the new challenge of navigating a coexistence with the father she had never known in a world she had never expected to exist.

Now, perhaps, with one kidnapping, several near-death experiences, and a newfound sister, this would be the opportune time to dissect that part of her life.

Or, she thought, as exhaustion and hunger weighed on her shoulders and her sister barely disguised her anxiety beside her, maybe that analysis could be saved for another day.

Today had been shitty enough.

"Yeah. Yeah, I'm sorry." Indy scrubbed a hand through her hair. "She was...excited. Really excited. I didn't have time to tell her..." Fuck. She hadn't even mentioned Roje.

"She said she'd meet us here. Or the cafe. Whichever. I uh...can you eat...I mean do you think they have food you can eat despite your...food allergies?" Really there was no graceful way to ask that question.

Despite it all, there was a sense of peace settling in beside the tension within her core; something soothing, familiar. Akin to walking a familiar street on a well-lit day, every stone and crack in the pavement burned to memory. A piece of herself was suspicious, immediately apprehensive toward any feeling of ease, but it was quiet compared to the fading echo of the song that had finally nearly faded from her mind.

Out of the corner of her eye, Indy spotted Silver--waterlogged and huddled by the fire under a blanket. "Silver came back? Did she say where the other two went?" Indy raised her voice a bit, hoping to catch her attention. "Hey, did you see Edwin and blondey?"

coded by: @s e v e n

 

[BillieRoss]

Bill
Location: In the depths of the forest
With: OrganicUFO

Bill breathed a sigh of relief as Wiri lead the other two away and out of sight, leaving her alone with Greenwitch. It made things simpler. It made things easier. Once she found her wand she wouldn’t need to explain to them what it was, or why she was so keen on getting a little branch back, or anything else. The Irishman, still thrumming with nervous energy, thrumming with that weird supernatural strength was also retreating, away through the trees and out of sight.

It made things simpler. It made things easier.

The rain was also starting to let up, thank the Old Mothers. It didn’t look like it’d need any dispelling, except to get it to let up earlier than it otherwise would have. It’d ran itself out, and people would talk for a few weeks about how weird the rain was, and then everyone would forget about it.

Scrabbling through the mud puddles would have been embarrassing if she wasn’t already covered in mud, and if she hadn’t already pretty much given up the thought of making friends with any of them. And the Greenwitch was stuck with her anyway, if she wanted a coven in this forgotten corner of the map, so it didn’t matter much what she said or did.

There wasn’t much chance of her finding the wand here anyway, not in these conditions. Too dark, too muddy. She could maybe get the Greenwitch to cast a location spell or something. It’d light up the quickest path to the wand-

But the day was weird, and there was something out there that made their magic more potent. She wasn’t sure how a location spell could backfire, but she knew there was something else in these woods. Something Hatsu had followed in. Even with her wand, she wasn’t too keen on coming face to face with whatever it was, sniffing the two of them out, following the lines laid down by the location spell.

But she did need her wand. She really, really needed her wand.

“Could ye gi’us a light, Greenwitch?” she asked over the roaring rain. “Try not tae make it too bright though, and close yer eyes when ye cast it, there’s somethin’ in the leylines makin’ the magic stronger. Don’t want tae blind either of us.” It was supposed to be a joke. She could tell her tone fell flat.

She glanced hopefully up at the Greenwitch, trying to ignore the look on her face. She looked downtrodden. Sad. Bill was no good with sad people. “Once I get my wand back, I’ll get us both back tae town. Nice hot shower and some scran, aye? Yer mate'll have calmed down by then as well, I'd bet”

 

[silverwhere]

Hatsu Black
Location: Beach Beach Take me to the Beach, that's how the song goes right?
Tags: Out Of Words Larry Collidias Rex​

Hatsu was not enjoying the rain anymore and he most certainly was not enjoying the walk through the woods anymore. He found this walk to be stressful. He knew that they were heading towards the Loving Spoon and he was expected to sit and dine with Wiri and a mad Aódh. It was already tense and he could hear Aódh grumbling incoherent words behind him as the three of them made their way towards the beach. Hatsu didn't know Aódh. He'd only met him today while they were holding a tarp for Wiri to land in. Who could say that Aódh wasn't a crazed murder with a knack for putting out fires and following strangers into the woods? He kept his eyes glued to Wiri; he refused to turn around and see whatever Aódh was grumbling about and risk ticking the other person off more. Besides, he still had other things to worry about and if he could just ignore Aódh for the rest of the track up to the restaurant then that's what he is going to do.

There were a few things Hatsu had learn about the years and one is that he didn't like attention. He wasn't really sure where it originated from, but he preferred to be in the background. And the one thing that could cause people to turn their heads is when your house goes up in flames. A lot of people were there to help put out the fire and plenty more knew that he had been the one to make the purchase. People were going to start to come up to him to offer their condolences and offer their help- he couldn't help but get a bit anxious and frustrated. Hatsu didn't like people feeling sorry for him. He was grown and (for the most part) he had the power to make things better. He didn't enjoy the sorry looks people gave him when something terrible happened or offer their hand in help. He didn't need reminding that life was shitty and he kept drawing bad cards. And he didn't want to worry about how to turn down help. He should want and need help, but he didn't. Hatsu took a deep breath, he was thinking too much. He took another deep breath and held it for a while until his lungs burned. He let it out when he heard Aódh collapse behind him causing him to naturally turn to look behind him.

Aódh was on the ground gasping for air. Hatsu wasn't really sure why, the walk here wasn't that hard. Hatsu raised an eyebrow as Aódh asked them to keep going on without him. It didn't look like the other man had slipped. "Alrighty then, see you at the Loving Spoon." It was cold of him to just leave him in the pouring rain and he really should have checked with Aódh to make sure that he was alright, but he wasn't in the mood to exhaust any more of his own social meter. Not only that he wasn't sure if Aódh was still mad or not, and he rather not poke the bear with any more questions. The safe that he was carrying was heavy and he was ready to put it down. Lastly, he really just wanted some of Tilly's cooking. Then he was going to go to bed.

 

[Silver-]

Silver Blackwood
Tags: Out Of Words Rhyme | Mentions: Britt-21 Thropian KodakWolf | Location: Marasong Inn​

Firelight invokes a balmy feeling. It spreads across whatever surface the amber light touches, warming rather than bringing a scolding heat like that of the sun on exposed skin. Bit by bit, Silver can feel her clothes releasing their clammy grip to her body, shedding their 'second skin' status as they too dried to the point that they no longer struck her with the irritation that was keeping her involuntarily focused on the sensation. Her legs soon drew to her chest as her hand fell away and head lifted to perch her chin atop her knees, the world seeming to fall away for the first time as her vision blurred.

Even when she allowed her heavy eyes a moment of respite, the light from the glass still danced, cutting away any potential for darkness to encompass her in it's exhausting, wearying grip. For once, her mind was empty. There was no worrying about what time she needed to expect her parents to come home, listening for the particular rhythm of footsteps that told her if it was her father or her mother coming to check on her at night, or the raucous noises of her mind telling her to stay alert and reminding her of where and who she was. Silver gripped her shoulders with a bit of renewed strength after a bit, enjoying how her sleeves no longer stuck uncomfortably to her forearms where countless lines of pallid tissue lay, yet another reminder of a place she could now consider her past.

Eyes landed on her backside soon thereafter, her shoulders tensing instinctively when her back attempted to straighten in reaction. Right. There were other people here. Roje and Indy. In remembering that there were others, another melody swept into her mind, layering on top of the warmth from the firelight. She tried to focus on it to see if perhaps it held the same rhythm as the notes that had slipped in before at the clinic and when they'd all first 'landed' there but it was still too faint. It was like she had to strain to even decipher the tone regardless of how easily she picked up the fact that there was at least something dancing with a melody.

The towel she'd folded up earlier and placed into her lap was sandwiched now between her legs and chest, providing heat to her core that stopped her from trembling but couldn't quite shake the chill of the unknown. The unknown being what exactly the sort of situation she'd even gotten herself into in the first place. The places she'd been, the people and creatures she'd met and the songs that are upwelling into her thoughts. These things weren't manifesting for no reason, so what do they want? And what part of all this did she even have to play? And why now?

Her questions were answered instead by something wrapping slowly around her shoulders and instantly kindling warmth on the back of her neck. It was soft, but it wasn't fur. Someone had gone behind her without her notice? This time, Silver took a moment to pry open her tired eyes, catching a glimpse of a dark-haired girl beaming at her before exchanging words she couldn't really make out for some reason, to Seraphim. Her outfit reminded her of something.. no, someone. A character from a video game. She was clad in articles that were well put together, meaningful maybe, so it quietly made Silver wonder if she was going to become another important individual in the grand scheme of things because it just about felt like every person they met had a purpose in whatever intangible goal they were heading towards.

Sinking her fingers into the blanket, Silver continued to silently relish the security it provided her as her gaze finally tore away from the woman after studying her for a bit. She didn't seem to be 'not-human' like them, but at the same time her exhaustion was catching up to her and it was affecting her senses. Silver blinked when Indy mentioned her name, drawing in a long breath before exhaling slowly, knowing she'd probably have to answer something. "Edwin, I didn't see. I went after him since I thought it wasn't good to wander this place alone," she cleared her throat before speaking, looking over her shoulder to speak.

"Blondey.. I didn't see him either. I think I was in the residential area before a guy named.. Tucker, guided me through the dockside to here." Silver wanted desperately to apologize but for some reason, she felt like she shouldn't; as if she was supposed to be out there in the first place. Her mind wandered back to Tucker's stiff answer after inquiring about Chase. He was hiding something, for sure. "I'm sure they're close by though. It's just a feeling." The words left her mouth before she could stop them which had Silver turning away in her own surprise. She could sense something but it had to be the rain, right? Or maybe she'd just be trying to comfort Indy somehow. But why? Her words were genuine but even she couldn't tell why she'd bothered to mention anything at all.

 

[Collidias Rex]

Rawiri Reaves​

With: Larry silverwhere

---

Ranger.

The word felt mocking as Wiri paused to feel for his surroundings. He'd apparently lost his sense of direction in the chaos, following Hatsu east rather than west as he thought. That didn't change his plan, though. He lurched onward through the bush and mud toward the smell of salt on the wind. He could see the sand a short distance ahead.

Ranger. Ranger. Ranger.

He'd placed enough expectations on himself without needing the added weight of being the town's 'ranger', but once it stuck he couldn't go back. He couldn't let folks down now.

Fuck you, Max, Wiri smirked, but it was tinged with a bitter curl of the lip. It had been fine when only Max called him 'ranger'. It was affectionate that way, as a name rather than a title. A playful bit of cameraderie. Wiri liked Max, but the word was ... less affectionate now that it had spread.

His head canted at something behind him. Muttering. Growling. It was deep - deeper than Hatsu. Wiri picked up his pace a little, passing the treeline and setting foot on the sand. The sound of waves lapping at the sea was fresh and crisp now. Seawater. He breathed deep, lettng the sharp tang of salt on the wind settle from his mouth to his lungs. There was a faint electric prickle to it. He tensed, focused, then relaxed. He stretched his arms out wide almost involuntarily, halfway between yawning and sighing. Relief. His clouded thoughts subsided for a moment. Things would be alright - and a hot meal sounded like just what he needed now. He'd swing by the clinic on the way back, grab the keys to his truck, head to the Loving Spoon with Hatsu and get his fill after a hard day of work and weirdness. He could afford a moment to relax. Work could wait to tomorrow. He had a few sparse deliveries to make, but it wouldn't tax him. He'd look into the newcomers in town. He's investigate Hatsu's house. He'd look into the horse that-

Wait, Wiri caught himself staring at the ocean to the North-east. Ocean. Sea. Seaweed. Something clicked. The fucking horse. You dickhead, he bit his lip, what are you doing running around in weather like-

At that moment it occured to him that Aódh's steps in the sandy slurry had become ... staggered, was the best way to put it. They didn't have the same rhythm any more. He pondered that for a split-second before the steps stopped - and Aódh hit the ground.

"Jesus, mate!" Wiri spun around and chanced a few steps toward the man.

"Go...go...on ahead...without me... I'll be with ye...in a moment: don't worry, I'll catch up."

Hatsu was quick to agree - which earned him a momentary glare from Wiri, but the stare quickly softened. Wiri couldn't fault Hatsu after the day he'd gone through. He sighed and nodded his head.

"Yeah. I guess. Hurry on over." Wiri waved Hatsu off, but he hesitated to follow as he watched Aódh's rapidly declining state of ... everything.

"You look like you're fucking dying, Irish." Wiri grimaced and moved a little closer, but was careful to move toward the sea at the same time. As he watched Aódh a wave lapped at his feet, and a moment lated soaked through his boots.

Something at the forefront of his mind told him to leave and follow Hatsu. Something a little deeper still told him that he couldn't. Aódh's temper was obviously unpredictable and fluctuating, but in the moment the Irishman looked like he was as much a danger to himself as anyone else around him.

I can't leave him here like this, Wiri sighed, definitely not here on the beach.

"Irish, mate, you seem like a decent fella and I'm not about to leave you alone in the cold when you look like you're having a fucking heart attack." Wiri sighed aloud and thrust his hands into his pockets, where he discretely clenched them into fists. A tightness thrummed through his veins, surging from his feet upward. His fingers clenched rhythmically, drawing that inner strength to them and releasing in steadily with each wave that lapped at him. Flow. Ebb. Flow. Ebb. Even intake and release like slow, strong breaths. Watching over Aódh, he maintained his stance in more ways than one.

Fucking ranger indeed, he lamented as he watched Aódh. He didn't like anything that was happening - but more than anything he dreaded the thought of leaving Aódh alone to ... whatever was happening.

"What's going on, mate?"

 

[Out Of Words]

IF DECEMBER FREEZES​

IC Thread - GM Post
Depths of Darkness​

The echo vision was definitely stronger at the mouth of the cave, where the rain had a stronger sound. As it pelted the shore, little ripples of the outlined vision spread outward. Often, they cascaded together, giving a full picture of the area for a few fleeting seconds. Well, the seconds the dog kept his eyes open and wasn't drifting off.

With each subsequent blink, Boy's eyelids grew heavier and heavier. The blink turning into a 'resting of the eyes' bit by bit. The dog's head dipped forward until he startled awake from the motion forward, and that's when he appeared. Someone Boy knew very well, but hadn't 'seen' in a long time.

Rio.

The figure stood there, not just outlined by the rain, but in full color, standing just on the edge of the shoreline and facing the dog fully. His dark, medium-length straight hair clung to either side of his face. And what were usually dark brown eyes, were glowing a deep blue. Everything else about him seemed the same as Boy remembered, the man was thin, almost underweight, and his naturally beige complexion was too pale to be considered healthy.

"Boy, is that what you're going by these days?" His voice had a strange echo to it, like the whispers of the dark magic underneath his normal voice. Though it's been a while since he heard his own voice. Sometimes the 'echo' voice would laugh while Rio was talking. "This is how you're living? Is this even... living?" He smiled, the vibe filled with dark humor.

Rio started to walk toward where Boy was sitting, head tilting either way as he spoke. "You don't have to, you know that. Right? There's still so much... power inside you. Inside us." He stopped approaching when he was still out of arm's reach, and sank slowly into a crouch. Rio made sure he was still taller than Boy, tilting his chin down to look at the dog.

"Let's live again." One hand stretched out, waiting for the dog to sniff it, or even come closer within petting range. "Come on, Boy. We're better than this."





OOC Information

Riley KodakWolf : It's you. You know what you smell like, and aside from the glowing eyes, it's you. Though it's the only thing in full color with your echo vision. The double voice effect plays havoc with your hearing, sometimes there's a faint ringing somewhere behind the dual voices, sometimes there's laughter. Your whole body thrums with energy, but you're not sure if it's anxiety, fear, or excitement.

IF DECEMBER FREEZES
A story by Out Of Words​

Season One: A Night Bleeds​