Graded [Frontier] A Short Road

[Shatter Shard]

Isekai Hell

"The definitive anime isekai / medieval fantasy adventure experience."

This roleplay is part of the Isekai Hell Group. You can learn more about it by going to the links above.

A Short Road

A Slice of Life RP

About:
This RP is a simple journey on the roads of Ryke, seeing the lands along the way. There might be conflict, there might be not, but either way it's an adventure.

Goal:
Cleo is to do his first trading endeavor, starting from Ryken, to a close by village a day away, and going back to Ryken alive.

Players:
Shatter Shard (Narrator) - Cleo Rom
TheEccentric - Manira Mundo
strygwyr - Jojo Starfire
Orikanyo - Finneagan Huttman

 

[Shatter Shard]

Situation Level

Peaceful

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Sunny and Warm
Morning

Code by: Shatter Shard

The weather was nice; the sun was shining brightly, the clouds were sparse and the gentle breeze of the wind caressed the cheeks of the good people of Ryken. Good air and good day, the perfect combination for anyone intending to venture out of the safe walls of Ryken, or for anyone else in that matter. The people were busy and the hustle of bodies moving to and fro gave a sense of festivity along the streets. One particular part of Ryken was filled with noise and people. Stall vendors would shout their goods, "Apples! Apples here!" "Come buy the freshest cabbages in Ryken!" "Get 'em potaters!" and the people walking around would come close to shop. The marketplace, a place of commerce and a place of business, was especially busy in the young morning. Good and bad men alike treat this grounds as a land of opportunities, where the early bird gets the worm. However, where coin was to be made, the Merchant's Guild will be there to oversee it.

The biggest umbrella to cover the entirety of Ryke's economy, it was a power almost everyone in Ryke knew. Shops aligned along the streets were owned by members of the guild, and their ire would be best unprovoked if one were to deal with them. Merchants are already treading through a battlefield called "politics", so they have no need for hooligans disturbing their business. Though suppose people weren't stupid enough to poke at a hornet's nest, the shops had very plenty to offer. Perhaps materials for your craft? Or maybe meat for your meals? How about seeds to grow your farm? Search for it here and you'll find it. If that is not your cup of tea, then just run down a few corners and you'll appear in front of the service shops. You can walk through the doors of an appraisal shop, or a restaurant, and many others to spend your coins in exchange for personal gratification. Many things can be bought if you have money, but what about the people that needs it?

An adventure begins, when coin is lacking. The heartlands of Ryke are filled with bountiful opportunities; gold and territory are the more famous forms of wealth, but sometimes, the simple-minded forget that the kingdom was built on the shoulders of great men and women. The People of Ryke, talented and mundane, each serve a purpose in the great game of life. The adventure begins with Cleo and Manira; one a cunning merchant whose concern was on the coins he earned than the coins he spent, and the other a miscreant clad in grey and black, but with an attitude as red as her hair.

The story starts just before the two would meet in the capital.

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City of Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Among the brick walled buildings that line the marketplace, one stood out from the rest. Just as the Adventurer's Guild has a hall of their own, the Merchant's Guild did not lose out compared to them. Though it can't be called 'grand', it was definitely better than the rest of the buildings in the marketplace. It was a large building, more or less 50 feet high, and a sign in front that was magnificently engraved on polished wood, "Merchant's Guild". Its exterior made it seem that it was professionally constructed, and it's architectural design gave off a 'superior' feeling. No doubt a fair amount of money was used for its construction. Cleo immediately knew where to head and entered the guild hall.

"You want to apply for the Guild?" The clerk asked behind the front desk. "Yes, I do." Cleo affirmed "Though I was wondering how long it will take for me to be applied." The clerk behind the reached under the desk as she talked. "Not that long, actually." she then pulled out a sheet of paper and handed it to Cleo as he continued "The test every aspiring merchant need to do can be taken at any time, as long as it is within reasonable hours of course." she then fished out a Merchant's License with placeholder text "You will get your license after passing your test and after your info was properly processed, all of which can take for only about an hour or two." Cleo took note of it and read the paper. It was a simple form, and he needed to fill out the blanks. The Merchant's Guild was generous enough to provide a quill and ink for public use at the desk, so he helped himself with it. "Say..." Cleo continued to write as he spoke "...how hard is the test?" the clerk sighed as she thought about it. "It's hard, you know? All these big numbers made my head hurt." Cleo looked up as she continued "I wanted to be a merchant too, but I guess I wasn't cut out for it." Cleo nodded as he submitted his paper, sympathy painted on his face. "I see. It must've been rough." The clerk waved her hand "Don't worry about it." then she skimmed through the paper before looking at him. "That will be Sir Cleo Rom, correct?" "Yes." The clerk nodded and filed the paper under the desk. "Well, Sir Rom, you can either take the test today or inform me if you wish to take it at a later time." Cleo thought for a while before answering. "I'd like to take it now, please." "Very well, sir. Please head on to that room over there." The clerk pointed her hand at a door a few feet away, with what seems like a guard beside it. Cleo smiled and nodded his head "Thank you." The clerk flashed a smile back "Good luck with the test."

Cleo went through the door without trouble, since the guard knew what he was here for. Entering the hall, Cleo felt the air turn slightly colder, cooling his sweat and his mind. The hall was fairly medium, with enough room to fit in maybe 20 people more or less. In it were a chairs neatly laid in an organized manner with a quill and bottle of ink on top, and on few of them were other people that seem to be taking the test. One of them even had their hands clasped around their head as they look at their paper, as if it was spelling out his doom. "Hey, you." Cleo turned his head to look at the front, where a man sat behind a desk. "Come here and get your paper." Cleo walked towards the man, and was given a paper as soon as he arrived "Take any of the seats. You have two hours to answer all of it." Cleo took the paper as the man continued "And don't try to cheat. We will know." Cleo nodded "Thank you." and went to an empty seat to start answering.

An hour later, Cleo came out of the building with a Merchant's License, and a few Rykes less after paying the initial guild due. He expected something harder, but the test was easier than he thought. Although he had had to struggle a bit for the algebraic problems, the time used for it was made up by breezing through the basic arithmetic problems. Though what intrigued him more was the guild's magic that hastened their work. The air cooler for the test room, the inscriber for the license, the processor for his documents, are some of the magic devices the guild used, and it was something he has never seen before. He was fascinated, and wanted some if it was going to make work much more efficient. However, he's still starting at the bottom of the barrel, and that would be a long time away. He has a lot of rules to follow, including the base pricing and time of operation.

He looked at his license, reading his info and the inscribed "Apprentice" on it, before pocketing it for safety. On his hand was another paper, detailing all he needs to know if he's going to be under the Merchant's Guild, and fortunately enough he's in the appropriate time to start his first ever trading venture. Cleo adjusted his backpack and started to walk, as he listed the things he needed to do in his head. The first on the list: buying a cart and a horse. He would rather go and keel over dead than to be forced to carry things by himself.

Mentions: Shatter Shard

 

[TheEccentric]

The marketplace is a lively sector of the capital. Merchants, buyers, and curious observers take up a majority of the population; shops are more or less the houses in this area, with commerce being the guest they fervently welcome. Coins drop onto countertops like rain does to a field of thirsting crops. Empty promises of refunds and quality assurance are almost a myth, but even the most superb weapon isn't safe from accumulating invisible fractures over time. One such fracture can be found just a few alleyways away from the Merchant's Guild, tucked in the shadows of a successful smithy and an adjacent store of tinkered knick knacks. Its name isn't important, what is, is the possible fight that's brewing inside.

Manira stood there, Wakas resting on her back like a demon waiting to be woken from its slumber as weak light streamed from the windows. The teeth along it moved, as if they're trying to bite at something that can't be seen by mundane eyes. Flesh redder than blood throbbed along the supernatural metal that made up the blade of the sabre. Most of this is not visible to the untrained eye, though. Manira's lush cinnabar hair covered much of the weapon, leaving the face to be her most notable feature. Fair skin combined with the mischievous expression she wore made her look quite childish, though usually a child wouldn't be threatening three thugs. In front of her, three sleazy-looking men are giving her a death glare, their hands perched on the weapons hanging by their waist. Behind her, the door to the shop had already been locked by her, ensuring a front escape being impossible for anyone. At least, for anyone except her.

"Just gimme the money, and I won't hafta hurt ya.", her voice was sharp and demanding, fitting her demeanor very much. The leather she wore crinkled as she took a step forward, her hand flying towards Wakas. Immediately, the men pull their weapons out and begin spreading around the room, wanting to surround her. "This ain't your place to be all brave, girl.", one of them responded gruffly. A scar in the shape of a star throbbed menacingly on his cheek, reacting to the anger he felt towards the domineering Manira. She replied with a smile, nonchalantly moving to a shelf with wire animals. She grabbed at one in the shape of a duck, her eyes flashing with enjoyment.

"Ain't doing none bad here, us brothers just living our good life, new and away from the belly. Don't mean we won't gut you for acting like a bitch.", one of them growled, his posture poised in preparation to attack. She just ignored this, as she continued grabbing wire animals. Aside from the duck, now held a dog and a lamb too. Several seconds passed in ominous silence, her movements completely disregarding their eyes that slowly began to turn red from sheer anger. Hefting the wire animals, she stuffed them into their bags, causing a reaction from one of the thugs. He threw his dagger at her. Time slower, as the small blade sliced and flipped through the air. Within her eyes, the reflection of the weapon told her it was aimed at her shoulder. Though, she wasn't taking her chances. She dodged to the side, and everyone else in the room began to move.

Her body tilted to the side, the two other thugs rushed at her, one wielding a club while the other swung the hook end of a hammer at her. Even a member of the city guard would falter for a moment in the face of a three-pronged attack. The difference between her and a guard though, is the fact that she isn't obligated to fight criminals. Well, ex-criminals. Quite frankly, she just targets the first shop she'd find that isn't by the street. Were they former fugitives that wanted a new life? Maybe. Did she care? Not at all. She cared so less, that she didn't even think twice before she did what she was about to do. As the attacks went for her, her eyes stared at the window by the locked door. Her eyes met the opposing alley wall, but she focuses her attention on something closer. The space before it. "Gotta Go!"

On her back, Wakas vibrated, as she felt the world fall away. Or rather, she fell from the world. Sinking in the spatial gap that Wakas made for her. She "swam" forward in the space soup that separated the shop's space and... Wherever she would've landed in if Wakas cut any deeper. A crimson scar appeared in the air of the alleyway, expanding in an instant as she jumped out from it. She smiled at the men through the window, tapping the door she locked. They weren't given any time to react, she just disappeared from in front of them, and then appeared outside. Their shock turned into pure wrath when she gloated at them, and ran off into the main street. By the time they were able to get out, her figure had already disappeared. They only lost several coppers worth of products, but the shame was what really stung. Whatever else happened to them though, doesn't matter anymore.

She was already checking out the rewards from her heist, a cute copper duck made of wire being the most valuable. To her, at least. She was walking in the streets, her thoughts flying, as she didn't notice the figure she was about to bump into...

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Cleo's wandered about as he walked with a confident gait. The marketplace is just as busy as ever, the cacophony of voices drowned out almost every other noise there is. There were many words being thrown around that he was unable to pinpoint anything. The busy streets kept him away from the paved paths, avoiding other people and ensuring his own safety. His legs carried him at a steady pace, occasionally asking people the direction to a nearby stable where he could buy a horse and a cart. "Excuse me." Cleo asked, tapping the shoulder of a man. "Hm? What'd ya want?" The man turned around with a wheat stalk in his mouth. "Do you know where I can buy a horse and a cart?" The man chewed a bit before replying "Just ova' there. Go that road, and head straight to the left. If ya know yer way, ya will end up in the western gate. Then ya just gotta find the shop called 'Iron Draft' and get yer horses or whateva there." Cleo nodded and flicked a single silver coin his way. The man caught it and grinned "Pleasure doin business with ya." The man turned around and went on his way. Cleo took note of the directions on his head before heading out as well.

Matters in hand was to be given importance and so Cleo made haste towards his destination, but he was soon to waste his time when he turned a corner. He had bumped to someone else unawares. Unfortunately, the weight from his backpack caused him to stagger back more than it should, and his flimsy body was not able to help his balance. He had almost turn over his back when he finally regained his footing. There was a frustrated look on his face as he dusted his cloak and adjusted his backpack.

"I apologize." He couldn't really blame the other party. He wasn't able to pick out noises separately, so how would he know that someone was approaching in the corner? When he looked over at the person, his thoughts paused as his eyes was assaulted with vibrant red. The woman's red hair was certainly eye catching, but that was not his current concern. His most valued ability, Eye of Midas, had activated. Around the woman was an intense red light, and the light being so strong meant that she was a useful person. If he catered to this person and treated her as he wanted to be treated, then she would become a valuable asset to him in the future. However, he doesn't know why it was red, nor the meaning behind it. The worst part was that it looked ominous. That was not a risk he's willing to take. Cleo judged that she was someone he would never associate with. But unfortunately, this person was someone he's familiar with.

"Hold on a second. You're the person that borrowed Rykes from me!" Cleo exclaimed. Usually he wouldn't be bothered with spending coins, but this was a completely separate matter. He didn't give her money, she borrowed it. "I had never thought I would meet you again, but now that we're here..." then he extended his palm "...pay up." Normally, he wouldn't be bold enough to demand the money back, when the other party had a sword and was clearly physically superior than him. However, the current environment was to his advantage. There were people around, and if she were to make a scene, it would quickly turn ugly and provoke the guards into action.
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Invoked Abilities:
[CD | 0 Post] [F] Eye of Midas: Business F, Perception F, Insight F, Appraisal F | Cleo can see the approximation of the value of objects that he sees, as well as the relative value of a person in terms of usefulness and compatibility, especially on the basis of the Golden Rule. For objects, he sees a white glow that changes in intensity proportional to its value. For people, he can see a variety of colors (and he doesn't know the meaning of all the colors) with the intensity increasing proportional to the basis of the Golden Rule.

Mentions: Shatter Shard

 

[TheEccentric]

"Damn idiot, watch where yer goin'!", an annoyed voice spoke up from the floor. She didn't fall down or anything like that, quite the opposite. Manira had to go down to pick up the wire duck she dropped, though its condition made her blood boil. The earlier cute form of a duck, now looked like a recently butchered duck, as its neck looked like someone stepped on it. That someone is her, but she's not gonna blame herself for a mistake that could've been navigated if someone was looking at where they were going. The someone this time, is the guy in front of her.

He looks.. like he's made of paper. That's the first thing Manira could say about him. The bag on his back and the way he carried it only made him look even more like a child trying to leave his house after saying he'd run away. She even had the thought to make a scene, say he was harassing her, then nab something from the bag while his attention was on the crowd. Unfortunately, he not only got the jump on her around the street corner, he even had the gall to jump her on the conversational corner. She froze when she heard his words. Someone recognised her, and she owed that someone money? Why'd they have to meet here in the middle of a crowd of all places!? She finally gave him a proper look, and her stomach tightened. He wasn't just any common hick, he had the bearing of a hick with class which usually meant he was either a charlatan or a merchant.

Immediately, started looking around for escape routes, or even guards. She knew they wouldn't amount to much in her current situation, though. The guards wouldn't side with her, and she couldn't risk staying around for too long. The three bozos from earlier might be too indignant, they could even be asking guards for help right now. She glared at the man in front of her, this soft-skinned bag of money that ruined her mood, a bag of money she could easily cut open when they find somewhere private... An idea popped in her mind. She looked down, acting like she's looking for more wire toys as her hair covered her face. A mischievous grin had already found its way on her face. Though, she might not have made it as hidden as she believes she did.

"HEEEEEY, FANCY MEETIN' YOU HERE, uhm, CLIT.", she made sure to raise her voice, believing her performance is convincing enough for anyone around. "Been a while! Yeah, yeah, money's back at home, why not ya come over so I can give it to ya? Or ya thinkin' we go some private place and catch up?", she said as she urgently placed the wire duck in her bag. Her eyes shot towards alleyways and empty shops. After a moment, she just gave up on the idea. She grabbed his hand, and dragged him with her to the nearest alleyway that didn't look like it hid fuckers, muggers, and druggers.

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Things were every bit normal as his outstretched palm waited for the coins, but Cleo soon found himself dumbfounded by the incredible act the woman before him performed. Her words were unbelievably discordant, and jarring to his ears. And the name...Cleo almost spat out a curse. He was not an excellent actor by any means, but this farce felt like a mockery to him and to all those who feels his plight. He already knew what the woman's intentions are, as it was quite literally out in the open for him to see. She was terrible at hiding her expression for some reason, and it made it all the easier for him to figure her out. His mood soured even more and he was already contemplating on how to deal with this person. Trying to deceive me are you? This shamelessness needs to be curbed right this instant. His thoughts came to an abrupt halt when his hand was forcefully grabbed by the other party, and his mind was immediately set to high alert. There was a crowd around, and yet she dared to be this bold? Chat privately? My ass! Do you think I'm a fool? Cleo was going to show her what acting truly is.

"H-hey wait—!" Cleo pretended to struggle, not that he had any strength to resist anyway. He ensured his voice to be loud enough for nearby people to hear him, and sure enough a couple of eyes looked unto their direction. First phase was achieved. Now for the most eye-catching part. "Oomph!" Cleo fell forwards, seemingly unable to stop his momentum from the pull of the woman. His heavy bag hastened his fall, and its weight took the air from his lungs after impacting against the ground. His eyeglasses became crooked, and his clothes and cloak became dirtied. However, he achieved his goal. He turned his own body into an anchor, and turned both of his hands into a trap that will never let go. If she has to move, Cleo will damn make sure it will be hard for her to do it. His face almost kissed the ground, but it didn't stop him from grinning before wiping it off his expression.

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric

Situation Level

Alerted

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Sunny and Warm
Morning

Code by: Shatter Shard

As lively the marketplace was, it was inevitable for mishaps to happen when there were this many people. Thus the security around the place has always been higher during the morning, when there were many rats hiding among mice. It was for this reason that the guards stationed all over the marketplace were more alert than the other times of the day. Morning was ripe for surreptitious crimes, and they will miss none of it. Well, almost none of it that is. Fortunately, their vigilance was not in vain.

Right across the street was a suspicious event happening, and a guard was able to witness the man fall. Although he could've attributed to it being an accident, the woman reeked of delinquency. He had no way of confirming if his hunch was true or not, but he's not going to wait and sit by. She did pull him, so that was good of a justification as any. The guard started to walk towards them, as he pointed at the two across and yelled "Hey!". The guard raised his spear, with a flag bearing the symbol of the Ryken guards wrapped on the base of its blade. This garnered the attention of some bystanders, as their curious gazes naturally went to where the guard pointed at. Most importantly, the yell and raised spear informed the other guards that a situation has happened. Noticing the flag, a nearby guard began to make their way, with the others also raising their spears in acknowledgment. With their movement, the rest of the guards repositioned themselves to cover the posts the two have left behind. Although there were only two, the equipment they wore seemed very well made. They weren't as sturdy or as great as the equipment given to the Ryken Army, but it was enough to deter the common folk from ever messing with them. The guards slowly approached the two, their eyes fully locked unto them.

 

[TheEccentric]

Manira Mundo
​

The world could've been a better place for her, if Cleo didn't do what he just did. Feeling his grip on her, she knew she could toss him off with a little bit of effort, but that'd be the blade to the chopping board. Although he looked like a schmuck, it seems he isn't as dull as his taste in clothes showed. Her mind raced to find a solution, and what she landed on made her feel a flush of embarrassment. This, is likely going to haunt her for the rest of her life. Instead of pushing him off, she pulled him up from his feet quickly. And with sickeningly sweet tone, she said this with gritted teeth, her head lowered to make sure nobody saw her dour expression, "Clit, are ya okay? Sorry! Didn't know ya missed me that much, legs locked up soon as ya saw me."

The embarassment, is just beginning. Without waiting for his reply, she hugged him close while exclaiming, "Alright, alright! Promise, I'll be with ya 'til our end of days! Ya searched for me for long, how can a girl not feel her heart a flutterin'!?" She made sure her voice would be heard by the guard who raised the spear at them, pretending as if she didn't know he was calling out to the two of them. While her face was close to his, Cleo would see an expression just a few degrees away from enacting nonlethal violence. "Ya got me, ya stickbug-looking choad. I'll give ya yer money, just act along. Ya won't get shit if my pretty ass stuck behind bars. We can talk where ya want.", she whispered angrily at him, her grip stronger than his at this point.

Spoiler: Expression

Finally, she moved her eyes towards the guard who approached. He looked gullible enough, or so she believes. If push comes to shove, she'd port her ass away into a building the next time she sees a nearby window. Innocently, she looked quizzically at the guard who approached, her angry expression she was showing to Cleo now replaced with surprise and nervousness. "A-anything wrong, captain? Just pulled too hard, Clit here ain't the workin' type, ya see." Making sure her fair appearance touched the guard, she purposely called him captain to goad his ego, her hands now moving to dust off Cleo.

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City of Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Cleo felt a vein bulged from his temple as the woman continued to besmirch his name, but his frustration was soon replaced with entertainment when he saw her agitated expression. Fortunately, he managed to keep it in, or else the woman would have surely clocked him regardless of the situation. Cleo smiled, and he looked at the guards with a sorry face. "Ah, I apologize. I do not have the strongest of bodies you see, like what she said." Cleo grabbed the woman's shoulder, trying to signal her to stop being an idiot. "Though it is troubling, I admit, so I hope you can let us go." Cleo took out the license he just got from the Merchant's Guild, intending to enforce his own validity. "This should be enough to prove our innocence." He gave his best business smile, the shrewdness of a merchant seeping through it.

He knew that there was going to be discrepancies from the way the woman called her and his actual name in the license, but the guard doesn't seem to be the dull type. He was confident in the guard's ability to read between the lines.

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric

Situation Level

Deescalated

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Sunny and Warm
Morning

Code by: Shatter Shard

The guards calmly approached the two, and the one that Manira talked to seemed to be impassive. His ego did inflate a little, but it did not seem to have any visible difference. "Thank you for the flattery, citizen, but keep it low." He was not the least swayed by Manira's "charms", though his eyes did wander a bit, particularly on her red hair, before removing his gaze. The other guard replied to Manira "I can see that. Boy, you look even flimsier up close." He then took Cleo's license and raised his eyebrow. He chuckled a bit and gave the license back. "Mr. Clit, huh." Cleo continued to smile, but the name did made him clench his fist a bit. "Though I can't let you off without a bit of reprimanding." The guard then cleared his throat "I don't know what's happening between you two, but..." he declared, his voice loud and clear "...this is a public space. If you are going to make a scene, do it somewhere else." His eyes then lingered on Manira, before sweeping it back to Cleo and going back to a normal tone "Normally we would need further clarification, but I believe you already know what it means to hide under the guild's name." The guard was still suspicious, but chose to not pursue it any further. "Carry on then, Mr. Rom."

Guards have dealt with many merchants before, and if this guy was wiling to fish out his license for validation, then the problem is not in their hands anymore. It becomes the liability of the guild. It meant that whatever the guy was doing, he was confident enough that the matter won't become a problem in the future. But if it did, the guards won't have to do anything. The guild will take care of him. The guard signaled his partner, before walking back to his post. "Nothing to see here. Just a bit of a commotion." The guard declared as he walked.
The remaining guard tipped his helmet to the both of them "Keep out of trouble, you two." before taking post at a nearby location, seemingly giving this area priority after what happened. Most of the people seemed to have lost interest and moved on, and the few that had remained seemed like they had nothing better to do.

 

[TheEccentric]

The anger and shame she felt couldn't be put into words understandable by any mortal mind. Underneath her breath, she uttered eldritch curses she totally didn't hear from Wakas. Speaking of, the blade on her back shook and uttered unknowable tongues inside her mind when she held Cleo's hands. She just assumed it to be the blade being indignant about her situation as well. Though she was trying to hold down the inferno in her chest, she did pause when she saw Cleo pull out an actual merchant license. The fire she was about to speak got caught in her throat as a bead of sweat coursed down her back. She could bully the occasional store owner or vendor without too large a consequence, but a merchant, that was out of her league.

She didn't show it on her face though. Instead, she turned towards the guards and gave them the best fake smile she could. Of course, her beauty outshone most of the common women around her, this she smugly knew and acknowledged. When the guards finally left, she released a large sigh of relief, her shoulders loosening almost instantly. Ignoring the rest of the crowd around them, she glared at Cleo, her arms crossed. She still had the smile though, giving off a comical sight as her brows twitched while the edges of her smile looked visible crooked. "Didn't know ya was a merchant already, Clit. Truly, I am a lucky lass to have met ya again. Though, seems to me only yer wealth grew. Compensatin' for something?", in a tone that bordered playfulness and mockery, she tossed her hair to the side to show off the hilt of her blade to him. Although she promised her cooperation, the message in her eyes is clear; don't push it too far.

Paying a debt, ultimately, she isn't against it. Although she'd prefer just to run away, paying someone back is still better than paying taxes. Lazily, her eyes looked up and down the road, briefly pausing on the distant silhouette of the Merchant HQ. Much like anyone else, she had her reasons to be weary about the local powerhouse. Finally, her eyes lingered on a sizable alley a few intersections away. "Know a place, small shop, sells the best meatbuns in the capital. Cheap, nearby, an' most of all, private. Can stay there for a quickie.", her smile grew into an actual grin now, the mockery completely overshadowed with playfulness. The ambiguity of her reply could be heard by anyone listening on them. Since she couldn't really do much, might as well just make the time he'll spend with her inconvenient for him.

 

[Stryg]

Hidden in the cool shadows along an alleyway, away from the heat of the sun, was an otherworldly onlooker. Spending the past two days observing the Ryken populace, Jojo was eager to find individuals that piqued his interest. He was left disappointed time and time again as he found none that fit his criteria. But despite that, he persevered. He knew that if he looked hard enough, he would encounter someone that was waifu or husbando material. "Huehuehuehue." And then, he did.

Androgynous features, a slender physique, no facial hair, pale flawless skin, smooth and styled hair, a natural sense of fashion. "An ikemen. Interesting." And beside him, Jojo noticed the more outgoing one. Seemingly serious, hair a bit unkempt, and her built hidden under loose clothing. "Hmm. A tomboy perhaps?" Jojo questioned himself, rubbing his chin and squinting his eyes, trying his best to get a better look. But after hearing her speak and how she interacted with her acquaintance, Jojo's eyebrow raised up as he smirked. "Oh. A yandare."

Meeting his self-proclaimed requirements, Jojo slowly made his way out of the shadows and made his presence known. "Ehem. Excuse me and pardon my intrusion. I am Jojo Starfire." Jojo's voice had a strong nasal quality to it and the manner which he spoke was somewhat slow. His height could have been towering to some, but most of the time it couldn't fully be appreciated due to his less than ideal posture. A bit hunched with his shoulder rounded, he approached Manira and Cleo.

"I apologize for eavesdropping, but you were interested in acquiring a horse and a cart, correct?" Though he brought his entire palm near his face, Jojo only used his middle finger to adjust his glasses. "If so, I'm assuming that you're probably planning a trip of some sorts." He paused momentarily to inhale deeply through his nose, as if trying to unclog it. "In the event that you are, would it be alright with the two of you if I tagged along? As a mage, I could provide some sort of assistance." Unintentionally, Jojo slightly grinned in excited at the thought of finally having a party that was befitting of a protagonist.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan Huttman


He was down to his last coin. A singular gold, basically the last bit of his last job... All he had went to armor, weaponry, training and naturally booze and whatever else went good with said booze. Typically more booze, food and a companion for a night or two.

But now it was gone, his belly as empty as his pockets and his bed cold.

Truely, he was desperate for more, and most of all he desired to fight again.

And that wasn't readily available, gods he wanted to do nothing more than get inti a brawl or two but nothing was happening.

Everything was bloody peaceful!

"Does anything even happen anymore?!" He called up to the skies, getting a few people to scurry away from him from his sudden out burst.

His new title, it had been doing work, wherever he goes people just seem to lock onto him, he was thankful for it but it made him a target for alot of folks... Granted, this attention is at time welcome, that Cat beast-kin girl was plenty fun to be sure but sure as hell she was also the reason he was down to his last coin...

...Damn that kitten and her gleaming eyes and coy smile...

"...Ah... Just never goes your way for long does it?" He asked a stranger, who in a sudden jolt of being talked to by this incredably armored fellow blurted out a quick "N-no sir!" And scurried off.

His stood tall once more, straightened himself out and began walking down the street once more... Durely... Surely there was someone in need of help with a fat enough purse!?

He was a fresh E rank adventurer and E in grade! Surely the world will hand him somethin-

He watched as the situation arrose, fell, and rose again, then sort of fell as a...Couple? Yes, couple tittered and tattered about something. He wasn't certain what was going on but something on the wind... Yes... the siren call...

Of jingling coin.

But now another person was there, some sort of... Wizard?

...

Or maybe a scam artist...?

Well.

This situation smelled of money.

So, best he get in there and see about getting some cash for work eh?

He fixed up his clothes once more, plopped on his helm, made certain his sword was sitting right on his back and he stepped towards the situation.



"Ahoy there, any trouble? Finnegan Huttman, adventurer proper at your services!" His voice echoed with a light metalic sound as he call from beneath his helm, presenting his best. He took another look at the group proper and-

"Damn girl, you like red and black? I'd call it forbodin' but yer in the bright of day." His chatty title acting up as his presence slapped into the conversation like a flat bed truck hitting a raccoon.

Spoiler: Titles in play

Chatty: This person is known for talking a great deal
[Attention Hog] - character has a tendency to grab attention in whatever scene they are in. Whether it is the way they speak, present themselves, or the things they do, those in the area will have not choice but to take notice. Character inherently has an easier time gaining the attention of those they wish to be noticed by. Character has a greater hardship in going unnoticed or stealthy in situations calling for it.

@ all present

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

As soon as the guards left and the woman started to run off her mouth again, his expression turned frigid. There was silent disgust and anger in his still eyes as he corrected the woman. "Cleo." He said, with a cold tone "My name is Cleo." He pocketed his license, and ruminated over this woman's attitude. "Very vulgar are you? Though that's to be expected, after the first thing you tried to do." He was wary of this woman. Not only is he weak and she's strong, but she's armed. He already knew what that look meant, and he scoffed at the notion that he would cross a line. And the innuendos... Cleo couldn't help but sigh at it. "Can it. I'll decide where to go." Just as he was about to suggest another place, Cleo noticed someone else trying to join in.

It was a man, with a hunched over pose, and a face that many people would find unpleasant to look at. However, his focus was not on his appearance, but his approach on their conversation. An honest introduction, followed by declaration of intention. This man was... eager. How did he know? That grin on the man's face speaks volumes. But what does this Jojo fellow gain from coming with him? Aside from the obvious compensation, what does this man hope to achieve by joining on his endeavor? He isn't so sure, as the mage in front of him was just as dangerous as the woman beside him. Though there would be another factor in his judgment of the man, his Eye of Midas. Immediately just as he used it, he was assaulted with... bright green? Cleo was dumbfounded at the revelation, as the mage did not strike him as someone associated with the color green. The worst part is, it was yet another color he wasn't familiar with. But his aura was bright. Since the mage wanted in, Cleo thought it wouldn't be bad for him to tag along. After all, although he did have money, he doubted if the guy had any ill intentions towards him. Judging from his foreign clothes, he must've come through the gates first, and so wouldn't be a criminal in any way. He'd like to think the guy was just weird. He also offered assistance if he were to bring him along, and there was nothing wrong with an extra hand of help. Well, extra help with magic. He was sincere enough from what Cleo can see, unlike the woman beside him.

Though, people joining in didn't just stop at the mage.

Not even a moment later, another one approached them. This time, it was a person clad in armor, a showy one at that. He'd have to imagine that purchasing such a set of armor would have been very costly. Using his Eye of Midas, he was able to confirm the value of the armor. It was very, very costly. He wasn't sure how much, but the brightness of the aura around the armor says a lot. With his current wealth, he would probably drain almost all of it just to buy its chest plate. But his eyes did not linger long on his armor. Instead, it wandered over to the bright aura seeping out of the armor. Gold, bright gold. Cleo had to stop himself from immediately jumping on the opportunity to claim his allegiance. He had to remind himself that colors aren't what they seem to be. The last time someone had a deep blue color, he found out that they were simply the type to think too hard on things and was of no value to him, despite being very compatible with him. They were still friends, but he would be lying if he said blue guy would be able to help him. For all he knows, this gold color might mean he's actually just some greedy bastard. It's for this reason that he's hoping the red haired woman was someone that's not what she seems. He hoped, from the bottom of his heart.

The armored man also came in with an honest introduction, judging from his confidence, and another declaration of intent through his proclamation of his profession. Though Cleo raised an eyebrow as he saw Finnegan quickly shift his attention towards the woman beside him. He took a step back and looked at the people in front of him. A woman who had a debt on him. A weird mage with mysterious expectations and goals. A flashy armored adventurer whose mouth seemed to talk before he thinks. Despite their varied colors, all of them were shining bright. It was an opportunity, and the pieces he needed for it dropped right in front of him. Gold for the woman, participation for the mage, and an adventure for the adventurer. What does all of this make? Protection. A smile promising schemes appeared on his face. There was no malice in his gaze, only the eyes who have seen useful assets. He was fully aware of his own expression as he declared "You three..." his smile deepened as his eyes turned into crescents "...may I offer you a job?"
.
.
.
.
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Invoked Abilities:
[CD | 0 Post] [F] Eye of Midas: Business F, Perception F, Insight F, Appraisal F | Cleo can see the approximation of the value of objects that he sees, as well as the relative value of a person in terms of usefulness and compatibility, especially on the basis of the Golden Rule. For objects, he sees a white glow that changes in intensity proportional to its value. For people, he can see a variety of colors (and he doesn't know the meaning of all the colors) with the intensity increasing proportional to the basis of the Golden Rule.

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric Stryg Orikanyo

 

[TheEccentric]

Manira Mundo
​

"Right, Clam, gotcha.", her expression still hovering around mischief. She quite enjoyed teasing the icy merchant, as it's the only kick she could get on him that won't instantly lead to the Merchant Guild apprehending her. Her thoughts of teasing him quickly get benched though, when a new face slinked his way through the crowd, stopping beside them. Manira couldn't help but move half a step away from the creature. Well, creature seems too rude a word, as they were clearly a human male. His bearing reminded her of a slime though, for some reason. Regardless of his demeanor, his mentioning of him being a mage caught her more off guard. She always imagined mages to be stickbug-looking choads like Cleo beside her, not built like a veteran town guard who's had too many sweetrolls.

"Starfire? Dumb soundin' name, ya make it up yer-", just as her sharp tongue was about to stab at the mage, yet another weirdo decided to approach them. She prides herself a tall woman, but the man that approached made ever her feel like a dwarf. His voice was on another level; she's made grown men cry and howl with her antics before, and they weren't close to the booming loudness of the logbug-looking choad. "Red an' black is what ya'll be if ya don't can it." She gave herself a figurative pat on the back for being able to make use of what Cleo said to her moments prior. "Yer one to talk, shit's peaceful-like, an' yer galavantin' around like an armoured bull in a pottery shop." She was very much curious about the two men, but the fact that they continued to breath the same air as her made her annoyed. Especially Jojo, although she wasn't sniffing at his direction, she somehow knew he'd smell of sweat and grease.

Spoiler: Expression

Readying to spit up a storm, the offer of a job made her heart skip. As much as she enjoyed the life of liberty she has, it isn't enough to keep a girl beautiful at all times. The idea of a stable source of income reminded her of something: her empty stomach. As if on cue, a growl that could impress a lion called out from her waist. She already felt ashamed for what she did before, and this sudden event only made her even more embarrassed. Wakas on her back continued to shake and tremble, again, most likely feeling indignant about the situation just like her. Brows bending, her face flushed almost the same colour as her hair. Not waiting for the other's replies, she looked towards Cleo, the source of today's misgivings, with an angry expression. "L-LET'S TALK AT THE MEAT BUN PLACE! YER CAUSIN' FOOT TRAFFIC AN' SHIT! ESPECIALLY YOU TWO, FARTFIRE AN' BUTTMAN! I'LL HEAD ON AHEAD!"

With that, she fled.

Spoiler: Expression

 

[Stryg]

Jojo turned to the crimson-haired firecracker of a woman, wondering if his initial assumption was correct. Seeing her up close, it seemed he was mistaken. "Hmm." His lower lip curled outward while contemplating. "A Kitikudere?" Instead of thinking to himself, Jojo whispered it out loud. He felt no shame in it though. As Manira began to talk, Jojo was prepared for a verbal lashing; it was within his expectations. Unfortunately, it was cut short. Looking at the cause of the interruption, Jojo found the source of the loud, booming voice. An intimidating figure, a few inches taller than himself, but clad in armor. Jojo was honestly taken a back by his presence, but couldn't help but feel some form of admiration at how cool he appeared. "He's like Goblin Slayer and Madongwang rolled into one." His eyes were filled with awe, but the facade of awesomeness did not last for long. The moment he started to speak, Jojo frowned. "Hmmm." He adjusted his glasses as he leaned closer. Whatever he was feeling previously, had slowly disappated. What predominated this time around what his curiosity to figure out what trope the armored man fit into. While the two boisterous individuals chatted in what others would consider screams, Jojo observed from the sidelines. It was an awkward site. This odd interaction between the three was only disrupted by Cleo and his proposition.

"Certai-" Interrupted by Manira, being the gentleman he was, Jojo kept silent and allowed her to finish her sentence first. "Ehem." Although he tried to clear his throat loudly, the sound that was more audible was the phlegm that he unintentionally swallowed.

"Why yes. I too am in the mood for some meatbuns." His voice was as nasally as ever. "I believe you mean Starfire, Manira. Starfire. But for you, Jojo would suffice." As much as Jojo wanted to act cool and aloof, when he attempted to wink at Manira, it all went down in shambles.

Luckily she was too far away to notice. Probably. The road to his future harem was a long and arduous one.

Spoiler: Jojo Winking

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan Huttman


"HAHAHAHAHA! Good to see you got fire in yea to!" The woman's words did nothing but raise how much mirth the man gave off, but the hasty retreat to a meat bun place and the offer of a job...

Well, she ran off after calling him Buttman anyways.

"I cqn't say shes too far off I do like fine derriere..." the helmeted man stated, his head creening slightly to watch the woman leave... Definitly not looking at her unrespectfully.

"Work, yes indeed work. Always in need of that ever escaping flow of money, the last things I need are in reach!

But alas just out of it... Damnedable paywalls in my way to finally working on other things than my physique and arms...

...Hmm..." Finnegan pauses and considers the two men before him...

He turns his head towards the job offerer. "With our third... Fourth? Fourth, running off, perhaps you may like a hand with that bag. If we're to work together, your burdens are mine...

...A meat bun would go very nicely..." he dropped a slight hint of his desires for a second, before offering his hands to help with the luggage.

"Don't fret, I am plenty strong enough for any load."

@ all present, ish

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Cleo assuming Manira is still in need of money was spot on, and the woman's reaction was the evidence. The other two were also in agreement with the offer, which put a smile on his face. Though that quickly faded once the woman started to prattle again... and fled. He shook his head at the departing woman, chuckling lightly as he remembered the rumble.

He looked at Finnegan, and took off his bag. He heaved it towards him with a bit of an effort, clearly struggling from its weight. Although he was still a stranger at this point, someone this showy must have a bit of reputation in the Adventurer's Guild. Cleo's obligated to trust him with trivial things such as this at least, as not a lot of people would pretend to be adventurers. Just like the Merchant's Guild, those folks at the Adventurer's guild do not take pretenders lightly. Besides, he has something that he is happy with, a personality that annoys the woman. That, does a put a smile on his face.

As for the mage, well, it was clear to Cleo that this man also had some sort of fascination for the woman. He couldn't blame him, even he has to admit the woman's looks was a cut above the average. If he was ever interested in such things, as well as having an actual good first encounter with her, he might've been allured. Alas, reality was that she was too crass, and the thought didn't even cross his mind. But he has to warn this guy some time. Even if he was a mage, he shouldn't mess around people that can cut others easily. Or warn him about the expressions he makes. He's surprisingly oblivious to his own habits.

As for the woman, well, he still doesn't know her name.

He pat the backs of his two new hirelings, with a small smile on his face. "My name's Cleo Rom. Both of you may call me Cleo or Ro-" Suddenly, his intuition told him that he missed something. He squinted his eyes at the woman already a distance away, before he opened his eyes in sudden realization "Wait! I don't know where she's going!" He immediately began running, afraid that the woman might've ran away without paying anything back. There was still elegance in the way he ran, but it was very clear that cardio wasn't his best suite.

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric Stryg Orikanyo

Situation Level

Peaceful

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace Alley

Sunny and Warm
Morning

Code by: Shatter Shard

The nearby guard shook his head after looking at the group. "Another group of eccentrics." he whispered, exasperated. The still remaining crowd from the previous event had varying reactions, from secretly laughing to openly confused. Finnegan attracted some eyes from the people, mostly those of admiration. Cleo and Jojo had some as well, but they were all curious rather than fascinated. The other guards were locking their gaze on Manira, but the guard who questioned Cleo signaled them, removing their eyes from the running woman.

After the catching up, the group arrived at fairly less crowded section, tucked away from the business of the central marketplace. The road lined along humble shops of differing services, some looking much catchier than others, and some looking worse for wear. The alleyway they found themselves in was fairly clean, and the few shops standing on the sides seemed to have more niche services than the shops found outside. After a little bit of walking, they arrived at a humble shop, hidden away from the eyes of the main road.

It was unremarkable at first sight, but those with certain knowledge would recognize that the shop was built with sturdy materials of wood and stone. It was aesthetically minimal, yet structurally sound. From the outside, it had windows where one can look inside and see a medium-sized room, with organized tables and chairs, and with a few unassuming people. The most eye catching part inside was the waitress serving the customers; it was a bunny beastfolk. Not just that, but even the man behind the counter was also a beastfolk. From the looks of it, bunny beastfolk run this place, and it fits the sign the hangs above the entrance; "Bunner's Bun Shop". A customer came out of the shop, an elderly man with clothes from the middle-class, probably a merchant or a relative of one. He nodded to the group with a smile, especially at Manira, before slowly walking away.

 

[Stryg]

Finding no need to chase after the boisterous woman, Jojo paced himself and walked beside his employer. Although not exactly frail, Jojo a habit of acting as if he was.

"So, Cleo." He adjusted his glasses. "I do hope you don't mind me calling you Cleo.

Using his staff as a walking stick, he would wheeze from time to time, causing him to pause briefly when he spoke.

"What would the nature of our work be?" Merchants obviously dabbled in trading, but JoJo assumed that there was probably more to it than just that. He wouldn't have employed all the of them if that was the case. "Anything of importance we should know of?"

Hopefully Jojo would get a response before they entered the establishment. Once inside, his focus would definitely be directed elsewhere.

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan Huttman


"...Hmm... Maybe a protection thing, most likely." The armored fellow hoisted the bag to his back, the weight nothing but a mere afterthrough as he held onto it with one strap upon his shoulder. His own light gear was strapped along his waist to ease of access, belts were handy things, keeping pouches in place.

"Occasionally some trouble on the road, oft times the mere presence of resistance is enough to disuade those trying to snag something from carts." Finn pointed out, he followed behind as the walked towards... Well...

Well Finn just hoped the guys knew where this bun place was. Buns can be expensive and truely he was starving....

"...Perchance.. We can iron out details over food...?

I am...

Unfortunately...

Rather poor..." the man with armor that is worth more than most people's lives stated, as a slow rumble came from within the breastplate. "No matter of armor... can deflect hunger... A biting blade..." His words had a twinge of saddness, truely, his desire for food rose with the minute...

A bit of talking from their leader and they were hot on the trail, a Bun shop. And from Finn's look inside from the window... Bunnies were selling them...

Bunny people...

He... is suprised he'd never seen this place befote... And the people were...

Cute!!

Ever so adorable!!!

God above and devil below he felt giddy at the prospect of food but served by cute people was a dream!

"...Well? Come on! Surely shes inside!"

 

[TheEccentric]

Manira Mundo
​

The walk was peaceful enough. Having some space away from the three chodes behind her, Manira finally took a breather as she turned an alley. Quietly, she regarded the sabre on her back, which still vibrated lightly in its sheath. Though, she knew sheath or not, she could still cut someone up easily with Wakas. Magical weapon, and all that fun jazz. What isn't fun, is the sabre's incessant trembles, which just led to a feeling of being uncomfortable as it disturbed her hair. Eyebrows crooked, she whispered to the blade, "What's got ya, flustered, Wakas? What? Ya mean Cleo, what about him? Oh, yer plan sounds fun an' all, but he posin' a good offer. Guttin' him would just lead to less money down the road, an' some smarmy group o' guards hauntin' me nonstop. See, ya gotta be more reasonable, Wakas..."

She slowly walked as she whispered. Most of her attention focused on the blade, she didn't even notice arriving by the meat bun place until the old man waved at her. Her eyes blinked, before an excited look of hunger took over her beautiful face. It looked quite sloven, to be frank. Though just as she was about to enter, Wakas whispered something in her mind again. Her expression faltered immediately as she hopped to the side and hid against the side of the building's entrance. She didn't even notice the party arrive. She whispered while bullets of sweat dragged across her back, the embarassment from earlier coming back, "Shit, forgot I left a tab open, fuck, hope they didn't see me..."

Spoiler: Expression

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace Alley

Code by: Shatter Shard

Ryken Marketplace

Cleo huffed as he walked, with beads of sweat flowing down on his forehead as he addressed Jojo "It's simple—huff—really..." He swiped his sweat off as he continued. "Just as Finnegan said, it's an—huff—escorting job." He leaned on the wall to catch his breath, stretching his back as if to inhale all of the air in the area. "It's a bit of a trip from Ryken to a nearby village. Haaah... Nothing too terrible will happen." He paused for a moment "Not that I can promise nothing will happen." He was a rational man, and superstitions are not his thing. However, he can't help but be wary of his own words. He has seen far too many people jinx themselves, and he will not have it happen to him.

After catching his breath and listening to Finnegan, he nodded at the armored man "Do not worry, the food is part of the service on my part." he said as he walked, only to stop a bit of distance from the entrance at a distressed red-haired woman. "...Inside? That looks like someone afraid to go inside." he fixed his cloak and clothes, and peeked inside the establishment. There seemed to be nothing wrong, only a different sight than he usually sees. Bunny people? It was interesting to say the least. He thought that place was going to be shabby, but it didn't look bad at all. He was starting to look forward to eating here. All the more curious as to why the woman was reacting that way. "Go inside first, if you want." He said to the two men "I'm sure you are just as hungry as her." he guessed, nodding at the woman beside the entrance.

He then approached her "Why aren't you going inside? Also got a debt to them?" he asked, his gaze piercing through hers trying to figure her out. He hadn't known her for long, but this woman reeks of problems relating to money.

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric Stryg Orikanyo

 

[TheEccentric]

"Ain't a debt! Just have uh... an open tab.", a slight grimace on her face, she blushed even deeper when she saw her allies arrive without warning. It seems her dialogue with the blade on her back took longer than she imagined. Her moist eyes glared at the trio, particularly at Finnegan, because his sheer appearance alone likely caused the staff inside to look out. This is, without a doubt, the most cringe day of her life thus far, and will likely remain as such until her end of days. "Damn it, Wakas, why can't ya make money, thought ya was some all-powerful bein'...", mumbling this under her breath, she mustered up the remains of her dignity and pushed off from the wall. Whether or not the others heard what she said, is up to the acuity of their hearing.

"ALRIGHT, INTRODUCTIONS. THIS HERE BUNNER'S, BEST PLACE FOR BUNS AN' BUNNIES! CAN'T FIND A PLACE BETTER THAN THIS WHEN YA WANT QUALITY MEATBUNS!", raising her voice to almost a shout, she extended her hand towards the shop's entrance in an introducing gesture. Whipping her bright red hair back, she blatantly walked to the centre of the doorway, making sure she was visible. "SEE, LOOK! GOOD ATMOSPHERE, GOOD FOLKS, AN' WHEN YA ORDER, GOOD FOOD! NOTHIN' BETTER ON THIS SIDE OF THE MARKET!", while she said that, she turned towards Cleo and ran behind him. Seeing that his bag has already been taken, this just made her plan even easier to accomplish. Lightly, she began pushing him inside, exclaiming, "COME ON NOW, MR. MERCHANT! CAN'T HAVE YA STANDIN' ABOUT, REST YER LEGS AN' BE WELCOMIN' TO A NEW WAY OF LIVIN': THE BUNNER WAY!"

Her very impressive plan set in motion, she looked towards the duo, a hopeful expression on her face. As one would expect, it's a heartbeat-accelerating sensation, having a beautiful woman look at you with a face of slight longing and expectation. Though if the two gave her anymore attention than they normally would, an interesting scene will catch their eyes. On her back, or her shoulder rather where its hilt extended from, the sabre seems to be vibrating lightly. They'd notice the hair around the blade seemingly floating and dancing, though it seems she hasn't noticed this effect. The most concerning sight is the crimson eye between the hilt and the actual blade; glaring at Cleo intensely, it seems almost ready to devour the merchant. But alas, neither she nor the merchant have an angle on the blade. "Come on now, hurry up! We be hungry folks, no need to lollygag outside!"

 

[Stryg]

"If its an escorting job, I may need some for myself as well. Huehuehue!" Greatly amused by his own brand of comedy, Jojo chuckled in glee at his wit. Before he could follow up with more well thought of jokes, a cold sweat ran down his back. As the doors swiveled open, his heart raced, skipped a beat, and momentarily, it ceased pumping due to the sheer excitement he was experiencing.

Jojo had primed himself beforehand, convincing himself that it would take a while until he would meet a trove of beast waifus. Not only did he find a handful of them, they were as close to maids as they could get. Disregarding Cleo, Finnegan, and Manira, Jojo made his way passed the doors and walked forward in a rushed pace. Finding the closest seat available, he immediately sat down, slamming his buttocks on the hard wooden chair. Raising his hand in a hurry, he screamed out loud "I REQUEST FOR SOME SERVICE!" His voice increasing in pitch and cracking as he spoke. "I WOULD LIKE A SERVING OF BUNNY BOOBA---!" Realizing midsentence that his actions may have been seen as rude, Jojo calmed himself, remodulating his voice to a volume that was more socially acceptable. "Ehem." He cleared his throat, trying to pass off what he just did as if nothing happened. Using his hand to cover a portion of his face, Jojo avoided eye contact with anyone and simply tilted his head forward while completing his order. "I mean, we would like four servings of some bunny buns, please."

 

[Orikanyo]

Finnegan Huttman


Hmm, this red haired woman seems to be.... Comepletely trustworthy. To laud this place to them, she must truely love this place!! Finn followed after Jojo, his larger than life presence looming in the doorway as he gazed upon the bakery with a hidden smile. "This place smells lovely, truely this place was a good choice Miss." The armor clad man's voice echoed out, he gave a small light bow towards the counter.

"I find myself uncertain what to order... If...Oh?"

Jojo... He knew this places' menu!? How lovely! What did he say first?

A... Booba...?

That sounds lovely! Such a pleasant name must mean it is a lovely thing to behold. A soft bun... Yes that would be nice!

"I believe I shall have one of these Booba myself! Two Booba if available. Grab two buns as well if I can, i have two hands I may as well eh?

I am a man of appetite after all! Hahaha!"

The man, with a heart pure as snow, knew nothing of the words he said, and walked over to the small seat next to Jojo before sitting down, placing the bag he was holding next to him on the floor.

"I hope these Bunny buns as as soft as I imagine. I cannot wait to dig in and eat my fill." The man had no shame, his hunger is great, and desire for food unsurmountable.

 

[Shatter Shard]

Cleo Rom
"Aspiring Merchant"

Strength
Precision
Intelligence
Vitality
Speed

[ F ]
[ E ]
[ D ]
[ E ]
[ F ]

E

Active Titles:
Human | Trader

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace Alley

Code by: Shatter Shard

Bunner's Bun Shop

Cleo was appalled. The entire time, he has been dragged into mortifying situations by this woman, and during those times, she showed such embarrassing façades that he couldn't keep his composed look. There was already a look of regret in his face. His hand held half of his face as he was pushed into the shop, looking at the two men that have went inside. His embarrassment went up even further when the mage's tongue slipped, and the armored man ignorantly used the mage's word. Repeatedly.

It was tiring. Cleo found himself questioning his past self, if his decision to hire these people was the right one.

Then his thought paused when felt as if someone llooked at him. It only took him a second before shrugging it off. There were people inside the establishment, and that stare was most probably from the man on the counter. He looked at the bunny man, and just as he expected, there was an expression of dissatisfaction plastered on his face. It seemed like he was reading a book, but explicitly put it down to express what he felt towards Cleo's group. He sighed, and shifted his eyes back to the book. Cleo gulped, and his gaze swiveled to the waitress. There was a strained grin on her face and her eyes were crescent, almost as if holding down a laugh.

Cleo sat down with the rest, his hands covering his reddened face. "One..." he said quietly "...one meat bun for me please."

Mentions: Shatter Shard TheEccentric Stryg Orikanyo

Situation Level

Peaceful

-Ryke-
Capital City Ryken, Marketplace Alley
Bunner's Bun Shop

Sunny and Warm
Morning

Code by: Shatter Shard

The few eyes that were in the shop immediately darted to the newcomers, who were loud and boisterous. Most of them sighed and shook their heads, while the rest looked on with curiosity. Then suddenly, a melodious laugh field the establishment. The waitress, a young bunny woman with amber hair and long straight ears, couldn't hold it and laughed behind the tray she held. "Oh I'm sorry, but it was too funny!" she said, a lovely smile appearing on her face. Meanwhile on the counter, the young man with the same perky ears and amber hair sighed. He stopped reading to look at the woman and spoke "That's not funny. That's sexual harassment." The woman replied with a roll of her eyes "Aw shush, you." The man shook his head before continuing to read. The woman then turned her attention to the group. "Welcome to Bunner's! We don't sell Bunny Boobas, but fortunately..." she giggled before continuing "...we do sell Booba Buns."

The woman then took out a pad and pencil, listing down the orders of the group. "So, that would be 5 buns for sir mage and Mr. merchant, and 2 'boobas'..." she giggled "...for this knight fellow here?" Then her gaze went unto the red haired woman. "And I'm guessing the usual for you, Manira?" she asked with her smile brighter than before. Her clear blue eyes was looking at Manira as if she was a friend, but the red haired woman would also notice the displeased look the man on the counter is giving her. It seems like Manira's pitch earlier did not reduce any dislike the man had for her.

 

[Stryg]

Oblivious of whatever judgment the other store patrons had for their group, Jojo busied himself with the visual feast that was before him. Rabbit girls of all shapes and sizes wandered the confines of the tavern, serving guests with smiles on their faces. As one of the waitresses approached their table, Jojo spine stood straight, with his chin up, and a bit of blood trickling down his nostrils.

Controlling his urges, Jojo quieted down, listening in silence while their amber-haired beast woman repeated their order. Unfortunately, his composure was not at reliable as he thought. Upon hearing that they were serving actual booba buns, pixelated images filled Jojo's mind, making the previous trickle of blood turn into a continuous stream. With blood dripping from his pale face, Jojo slowly raised his hand. "Excuse me, miss." His entire body began to wobble as he spoke. "I, too, would like a booba bun." His consciousness was slowly faded as his voice weakened, but Jojo didn't mind. If this was the last image he was going to see before his life ended, he would be happy.