Fantasy Legends of Eaos: Destiny’s call.

[Rcticwolf]

(currently a work in progress)

Disaster has befallen the world; people have gone missing; towns and villages have been destroyed without warning. Adventurers from all over have been tasked with gathering any information regarding this phenomenon. However, what many don't know is that this phenomenon actually goes deeper than they would ever think.

This phenomenon has been discovered as a slave trade by the Duullahan Empire who due to its xenophobic nature views anything not human as a pest that needs extermination or enslavement. Thankfully the Adventurers Guild, which is headquartered in Duuhagen, the capital of the Empire does not follow this same ideology despite how much the King attempts to suede them otherwise. This of course leads to fracturing the peace that each kingdom has had for over 200 years. With war possibly looming over the horizon each kingdom has begun outfitting their soldiers with help from adventurers. Unfortunately war is the least of their worries as in the northern part of the Duullahan continent lies The Dragon Den, home to the Dragon Lord who views humanity as nothing but a pest to be burnt to a crisp

 

[Dragunov]

Nice

 

[Rcticwolf]

Moonberry

Lucina awoke from her slumber with sweat dripping down her face.

“Everything ok my lady?” Jewel asked

“Yes, just another bad dream Jewel… you know you need to stop staring at me while I sleep” she stated with a slight chuckle before wiping away her sweat.

“You constructed me to serve you, I do not require sleep or sustenance, just a regular recharge of mana to keep my functionality” she replied

Lucina chuckled again and placed a hand on jewel’s head before ruffling her hair and cat-like ears, eliciting a purr from her.

“Yet despite being a mere construct you show more personality than most” Lucina smiled and got out of bed

“Thank you my lady” Jewel smiled and followed as they returned to Lucina’s shop

“I shall get breakfast ready for you” Jewel stated

“Thank you Jewel, you know where I’ll be” Lucina smiled before grabbing her gauntlets and heading to the forge.

 

[Moonberry]

Sometime later, the morning had crawled on. The sun was halfway to its first arc, when a short figure slunk in through the front door of the forge. Wearing a brown raggedy cloak. A few scrappy locks of short brown hair peeking out from the shadows of the hood. The figure looked around for a moment, before trying to garner the attention of the one unfortunate enough to be dealing with customers today. In a voice that obviously sounded like it was being forced an octave lower than it was naturally, the cloaked figure spoke.

"I need to have a blade repaired...and I need no questions asked...Can you do that?"

 

[Rcticwolf]

Sometime later, the morning had crawled on. The sun was halfway to its first arc, when a short figure slunk in through the front door of the forge. Wearing a brown raggedy cloak. A few scrappy locks of short brown hair peeking out from the shadows of the hood. The figure looked around for a moment, before trying to garner the attention of the one unfortunate enough to be dealing with customers today. In a voice that obviously sounded like it was being forced an octave lower than it was naturally, the cloaked figure spoke.

"I need to have a blade repaired...and I need no questions asked...Can you do that?"

Jewel looked over at the strange girl that walked in, despite her disguise she could tell that she was a girl.

“We can miss… however we would need to ask a couple questions in order to facilitate the repair of your weapon, such as what you can afford and what the weapon is made of” Jewel stated

“If these are questions that you would prefer to not answer than I would suggest speaking with the owner” she added before going to a closed door and opening it where the cloaked girl got hit with an intense wave of heat for a moment before the door was closed again where the cat girl maid went back behind the counter and Lucina stood in front of the cloaked girl looking at her.

“So you need a blade fixed eh? How can we be of service?” She asked with a smile

 

[Moonberry]

The cloaked figure fidgeted slightly under the scrutiny of the dragoness. Then abruptly pulled a sheathed sword out from the brown heavy cloth that hid the figures silhouette. Still speaking with the forced lower octave, the youth insisted.

"Its broken...The....the last owner told me it wouldn't break easily...but...it broke when a white sword struck it." For a second the figures forced voice broke into a soft wavering tone. But they cleared their throat quickly, trying to reclaim their supposed toughness. "They wouldn't lie to me...I know...Can you fix it? It's some..kind of rare metal?" Still fidgeting, the figure tilted their head back to try and make eye contact with the shop keep. Stormy grey eyes filled with emotion glared an unnecessary defiance. "I'll pay...I can!"

 

[Rcticwolf]

The cloaked figure fidgeted slightly under the scrutiny of the dragoness. Then abruptly pulled a sheathed sword out from the brown heavy cloth that hid the figures silhouette. Still speaking with the forced lower octave, the youth insisted.

"Its broken...The....the last owner told me it wouldn't break easily...but...it broke when a white sword struck it." For a second the figures forced voice broke into a soft wavering tone. But they cleared their throat quickly, trying to reclaim their supposed toughness. "They wouldn't lie to me...I know...Can you fix it? It's some..kind of rare metal?" Still fidgeting, the figure tilted their head back to try and make eye contact with the shop keep. Stormy grey eyes filled with emotion glared an unnecessary defiance. "I'll pay...I can!"

Lucina looked over at Jewel “did she answer any of the questions?”

Jewel just shook her head “she has chosen to not answer any”

Lucina looked back at the girl with her hand resting on her chin. “That will be a bit of a problem, I can fix your blade… probably, but without knowing the makeup of the blade it will be a long process” she thought for a moment and then smiled

“Can I assume you at least have the weapon with you?” She asked

Just as she asked a man in full plate mail walked in as well. “Hello sir, if you are here to request service, please talk with my assistant” she said pointing to the cat thiren.

“Oh… no that’s alright, I just came to deliver a message that the guild needs all adventurers to report to their respective guild halls for an important announcement” he stated before leaving.

“I see, well that certainly changes things…” she looked back at the cloaked girl looking”I’m sorry miss, but your repairs will have to wait a bit longer, we should go see what the guild”

 

[Moonberry]

The cloaked figure shifted on her feet, the weight of the blade and her guarded demeanor both pressing heavily on her. With a slight grimace, she slowly reached up and pulled the hood back, revealing her short brown hair, messy and sticking to her forehead from the heat of the forge. Her stormy grey eyes flicked between Lucina and Jewel, trying to gauge their reaction.

"I... don’t know what it’s made of," she admitted, voice quieter now, the forced gruffness dropping as she struggled with her words. "My brother gave it to me before... before he..." She trailed off, her hands gripping the sheath tighter as her knuckles turned white. "He said it was strong, that it wouldn't break, but I guess..." A bitter laugh slipped through her lips, cutting her sentence short. "I don’t know if it can be fixed."

Her voice had softened, almost as if she were speaking to herself, but she shook her head, straightening up slightly and setting her jaw. "Can you try? I’ll pay whatever I have to."

The clang of the forge door opening again startled her, and her gaze snapped to the armored man who stepped in. She froze, pulling her hood back up out of instinct, listening intently as he spoke.

Her ears seemed to perk at the mention of the guild, her posture changing from guarded to curious. As the man left, she glanced between Lucina and Jewel, then hesitantly spoke up.

"This... guild announcement... Is it important?" Her voice betrayed a flicker of nervous curiosity, though her face was carefully neutral. "Do you... do you think they’ll need help?"

---

Rcticwolf

 

[Rcticwolf]

The cloaked figure shifted on her feet, the weight of the blade and her guarded demeanor both pressing heavily on her. With a slight grimace, she slowly reached up and pulled the hood back, revealing her short brown hair, messy and sticking to her forehead from the heat of the forge. Her stormy grey eyes flicked between Lucina and Jewel, trying to gauge their reaction.

"I... don’t know what it’s made of," she admitted, voice quieter now, the forced gruffness dropping as she struggled with her words. "My brother gave it to me before... before he..." She trailed off, her hands gripping the sheath tighter as her knuckles turned white. "He said it was strong, that it wouldn't break, but I guess..." A bitter laugh slipped through her lips, cutting her sentence short. "I don’t know if it can be fixed."

Her voice had softened, almost as if she were speaking to herself, but she shook her head, straightening up slightly and setting her jaw. "Can you try? I’ll pay whatever I have to."

The clang of the forge door opening again startled her, and her gaze snapped to the armored man who stepped in. She froze, pulling her hood back up out of instinct, listening intently as he spoke.

Her ears seemed to perk at the mention of the guild, her posture changing from guarded to curious. As the man left, she glanced between Lucina and Jewel, then hesitantly spoke up.

"This... guild announcement... Is it important?" Her voice betrayed a flicker of nervous curiosity, though her face was carefully neutral. "Do you... do you think they’ll need help?"

---

Rcticwolf

Lucina smiled at the girl “I’m not sure, that’s why we should go see, but would you like to get cleaned up before hand? You look like you’ve been through hell” she chuckled lightly before taking the sword from her and walking back to the forge.”

While Lucina walked away Jewel came by with a wet cloth and began to clean the girls face at the very least.

“A girl like you needs to make herself more presentable” she stated as she wiped the grime off the girls face.

“Perhaps we can get your name now Miss?” Jewel asked curiously

Lucina chuckled as she came back “yes, we will need your name for the order form, and to know if you’ll be in town until your repair is done” she stated

“It’s all part of the service at The Dragon’s Horde” Jewel added before throwing the dirty cloth away.

“Alright let’s get going” Lucina stated before walking out the door with Jewel and the girl behind her before locking the door and heading to the guild hall.

 

[Moonberry]

Lou followed a few paces behind, her grip on the broken rapier tightening with each step. The weight of their earlier questions still pressed on her, making her feel exposed. It had been a while since she’d spoken her name aloud to anyone outside her family, and the hesitation lingered like a shadow. But they’d asked, and after a pause that stretched too long, she’d mumbled, “It’s... Lou.”

The name felt strange as it left her lips, as if it belonged to someone else. It wasn’t a lie exactly, but it wasn’t the full truth either. Her full name—Elouise—carried too much weight, too much danger. No one here needed to know that part.

As they walked through the streets, Lou kept her hood low, avoiding the curious glances of passersby. The occasional clang of a hammer from another forge or the chatter of vendors selling their wares reminded her of home, but only for a fleeting moment before the ache of loss swept in. She shook her head, willing the thoughts away. She had to focus.

Ahead of her, Lucina and Jewel moved like they belonged in this world, their confident strides carrying them forward without hesitation. Lou felt small in comparison, her steps uncertain and her purpose unclear. Still, her curiosity pushed her onward. If they were going to the guild, it was as good a place as any to start... whatever this next chapter of her life was.

“Lou,” she muttered to herself, testing the name again under her breath. It felt foreign but safe. She could be “Lou” for now. “Just Lou.”

---

Rcticwolf

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou followed a few paces behind, her grip on the broken rapier tightening with each step. The weight of their earlier questions still pressed on her, making her feel exposed. It had been a while since she’d spoken her name aloud to anyone outside her family, and the hesitation lingered like a shadow. But they’d asked, and after a pause that stretched too long, she’d mumbled, “It’s... Lou.”

The name felt strange as it left her lips, as if it belonged to someone else. It wasn’t a lie exactly, but it wasn’t the full truth either. Her full name—Elouise—carried too much weight, too much danger. No one here needed to know that part.

As they walked through the streets, Lou kept her hood low, avoiding the curious glances of passersby. The occasional clang of a hammer from another forge or the chatter of vendors selling their wares reminded her of home, but only for a fleeting moment before the ache of loss swept in. She shook her head, willing the thoughts away. She had to focus.

Ahead of her, Lucina and Jewel moved like they belonged in this world, their confident strides carrying them forward without hesitation. Lou felt small in comparison, her steps uncertain and her purpose unclear. Still, her curiosity pushed her onward. If they were going to the guild, it was as good a place as any to start... whatever this next chapter of her life was.

“Lou,” she muttered to herself, testing the name again under her breath. It felt foreign but safe. She could be “Lou” for now. “Just Lou.”

---

Rcticwolf

“Well it’s nice to meet you Lou” Lucina smiled

Soon they came across the local guild hall which seemed to have a commotion of some sort. As they got closer they could overhear a man boasting about himself.

“That’s right, I am the Scarlett King, and I am here seeking members to join my expedition.” He stated

The crowd got rowdy and started asking questions about his journey and recent victories to which he answered in an arrogant manner.

Lou could see Lucina stop and clench her fists in anger. Jewel stood next to her and tried to keep her voice quiet “my lady, perhaps this is the man that has been tarnishing your fathers reputation?”

“He may be Jewel, and we need to clear this up before he gets away” Lucina replied

“But remember to control your anger, you don’t want to reveal the truth do you?” Jewel asked

Lucina sighed “your right Jewel, it wouldn’t be good to let that secret get out, but I still have to stop him” she stated and approached the crowd before pushing her way through.

“Hey loud mouth, what’s this I hear? Your claiming to be the Scarlett King?” Lucina asked

“Ugh, such a disrespectful tone, is this how you treat those of such renown?” He asked with disdain.

“No… but it is how I treat pompous frauds trying to claim who they aren’t” Lucina replied

The crowd was confused and began murmuring to themselves as they looked between the two.

“And what makes you think I’m a fraud?” He asked

“Because you are, do you happen to know what the Scarlett Kings armor is made of?” She asked

“Hmph what would that prove?” He asked

“It wouldn’t prove you aren’t him, because his armor is made from dragon scale, where as yours..” she reached out and grabbed his chest plate, before tearing out a chunk “is made of standard iron” she stated

“Oh how dare you, you know dragon scale is impossible to come by, everyone knows that, if that’s your only proof, then you have none, now get out of my face before I report you to the guild” he ordered, clearly infuriated by Lucina

Jewel looked at Lou “apologies, she gets very passionate when it comes to the fraud claiming to be the Scarlett King”

The man turned and began to head inside before being grabbed by Lucina as she pulled him back and threw him to the ground. “I know you aren’t him because I personally know him as I’m the one who made his armor!” Lucina growled

Jewel came rushing “my lady you need to stop, your approaching the point of no return!”

“Right, and where’s your proof?” He asked

“My proof is in my shop, where his armor still rests” Lucina stated

“Then you’ll have no problem showing it to me” he stated smugly



Suddenly before anything else could happen a receptionist from the guild stepped out the door. “That’s enough, if you do not cease this disturbance the guild will drop your rank” she stated

Lucina sighed and groaned

“Now mister Ward, I would suggest you stop claiming to be the Scarlett King, because we have had him registered to this guild for over 5 years” she added

 

[Moonberry]

Lou stood at the edge of the commotion, her stormy grey eyes flicking between the fiery Lucina and the arrogant man claiming to be the Scarlett King. The tension in the air was palpable, and Lou couldn’t help but feel small amid the swirling chaos of the crowd. She kept her hood low, hoping to avoid drawing attention, but curiosity rooted her in place.

Her grip tightened on the broken hilt at her side as she listened. Dragon scale armor? Lou’s gaze shifted to Lucina; her words laced with undeniable authority. The way she tore the fraud’s chest plate as if it were parchment sent a shiver through Lou. That wasn’t just strength—it was experience. And then there was the mention of her knowing the real Scarlett King... because she had made his armor.

Lou’s breath caught in her throat as the pieces clicked together. Jewels comment, Lucina’s demeanor, her precision, her rage at this fraud tarnishing the Scarlett King’s name—it all pointed to something that seemed impossible. Lou’s heart thudded in her chest at the realization. She’d always heard tales of the legendary adventurers, but she’d never expected to stand this close to someone connected to them.

When the guild receptionist finally stepped in, calling the man by name—Ward—and dismissing his claims, Lou felt a flicker of satisfaction. Lou had seen men like him before. Men who talked big, basking in the glory of names that didn’t belong to them. She hated them. Her jaw tightened as she stepped forward, the weight of the broken rapier at her side giving her the courage to speak.

“Ward, was it?” Lou’s voice was quiet, but it carried a sharp edge as she pulled her hood back, revealing her face. Her stormy grey eyes locked onto his. “You know, for someone claiming to be the Scarlett King, you’re awfully... fragile.” She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing as she delivered the final blow. “Next time, try claiming a title that matches your backbone. Like, I don’t know... ‘The Tin Can Pretender.’ Seems more your speed.” She made a face at him, before hurrying after Lucina.

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou stood at the edge of the commotion, her stormy grey eyes flicking between the fiery Lucina and the arrogant man claiming to be the Scarlett King. The tension in the air was palpable, and Lou couldn’t help but feel small amid the swirling chaos of the crowd. She kept her hood low, hoping to avoid drawing attention, but curiosity rooted her in place.

Her grip tightened on the broken hilt at her side as she listened. Dragon scale armor? Lou’s gaze shifted to Lucina; her words laced with undeniable authority. The way she tore the fraud’s chest plate as if it were parchment sent a shiver through Lou. That wasn’t just strength—it was experience. And then there was the mention of her knowing the real Scarlett King... because she had made his armor.

Lou’s breath caught in her throat as the pieces clicked together. Jewels comment, Lucina’s demeanor, her precision, her rage at this fraud tarnishing the Scarlett King’s name—it all pointed to something that seemed impossible. Lou’s heart thudded in her chest at the realization. She’d always heard tales of the legendary adventurers, but she’d never expected to stand this close to someone connected to them.

When the guild receptionist finally stepped in, calling the man by name—Ward—and dismissing his claims, Lou felt a flicker of satisfaction. Lou had seen men like him before. Men who talked big, basking in the glory of names that didn’t belong to them. She hated them. Her jaw tightened as she stepped forward, the weight of the broken rapier at her side giving her the courage to speak.

“Ward, was it?” Lou’s voice was quiet, but it carried a sharp edge as she pulled her hood back, revealing her face. Her stormy grey eyes locked onto his. “You know, for someone claiming to be the Scarlett King, you’re awfully... fragile.” She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing as she delivered the final blow. “Next time, try claiming a title that matches your backbone. Like, I don’t know... ‘The Tin Can Pretender.’ Seems more your speed.” She made a face at him, before hurrying after Lucina.

Lucina couldn’t help but laugh at Lou’s suggested name for the man. “Now that’s a funny one Lou, nice job, come on, let’s get inside before the Tin Can Man crumples in defeat” she laughed causing the man’s face to turn red with rage before the three girls entered.

Lucina and Jewel took a seat at one of the tables close to the reception desk with Lou, ward just went and skulked into a corner.

“Alright now that the little show provided by ward and Lucina, we can now get to business” the receptionist stated.

Shortly after the guilds master walked in to the main hall, Lou could easily tell that she was a beastkin, specifically a tiger. “Now I’m not sure how many of you have heard, but it seems more and more villagers are disappearing across the kingdoms, some to the point that whole settlements and towns are found deserted. The guild headquarters in each kingdoms capital has requested all the guilds to help solve and stop this matter before even more soon vanish.”

There was murmuring amongst the adventurers.

“Some of you are probably thinking about payment, the guild will pay for any substantial information you can bring as this is a dire situation” the guild master added

Lucina sighed “in other words, I’ll have to close my shop for a while…”

“That’s only if you choose to go” Jewel added

“Well, what do you think Lou? Are you going to go on this adventure?” Lucina asked

 

[Moonberry]

Lou shifted in her seat, her fingers tracing idle patterns on the rough wooden table. The guild master’s words echoed in her mind, painting a grim picture of villages disappearing and people vanishing without a trace. Her stormy grey eyes darted toward the murmuring crowd, picking up fragments of their chatter—words like "danger," "reward," and "impossible." The noise pressed against her, but her thoughts were louder.

She tightened her grip on the broken hilt at her side, her thumb brushing the intricate details of its handle. The idea of going on an adventure to stop something like this sent a thrill through her, tempered by a flicker of doubt. Could she really make a difference? She wasn’t a seasoned fighter or a legendary adventurer. She was just... Lou. A runaway with a broken sword and no plan.

Her gaze dropped to the table, her messy brown hair falling across her face. But then she thought about the villages, the families who’d vanished. The weight of it pressed on her chest like a stone. If people needed help, how could she just sit here and do nothing? What was the point of running away if she didn’t do something that mattered?

When Lucina spoke to her, asking if she was going to go on the adventure, Lou hesitated, her stormy eyes flickering up to meet hers briefly before darting away. The question hung in the air, and for a moment, Lou wasn’t sure how to respond. Her mind turned over the possibilities, trying to make sense of what this meant.

Her curiosity finally bubbled up, breaking her silence. “Why would you have to close the shop?” she asked, her voice quiet but laced with genuine interest. “Would we be gone that long?” She leaned back slightly, her hand brushing against her side where the broken blade rested. Her question wasn’t a challenge but an attempt to understand the gravity of the situation. She’d never considered what it meant to leave everything behind for an adventure.

---

Rcticwolf

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou shifted in her seat, her fingers tracing idle patterns on the rough wooden table. The guild master’s words echoed in her mind, painting a grim picture of villages disappearing and people vanishing without a trace. Her stormy grey eyes darted toward the murmuring crowd, picking up fragments of their chatter—words like "danger," "reward," and "impossible." The noise pressed against her, but her thoughts were louder.

She tightened her grip on the broken hilt at her side, her thumb brushing the intricate details of its handle. The idea of going on an adventure to stop something like this sent a thrill through her, tempered by a flicker of doubt. Could she really make a difference? She wasn’t a seasoned fighter or a legendary adventurer. She was just... Lou. A runaway with a broken sword and no plan.

Her gaze dropped to the table, her messy brown hair falling across her face. But then she thought about the villages, the families who’d vanished. The weight of it pressed on her chest like a stone. If people needed help, how could she just sit here and do nothing? What was the point of running away if she didn’t do something that mattered?

When Lucina spoke to her, asking if she was going to go on the adventure, Lou hesitated, her stormy eyes flickering up to meet hers briefly before darting away. The question hung in the air, and for a moment, Lou wasn’t sure how to respond. Her mind turned over the possibilities, trying to make sense of what this meant.

Her curiosity finally bubbled up, breaking her silence. “Why would you have to close the shop?” she asked, her voice quiet but laced with genuine interest. “Would we be gone that long?” She leaned back slightly, her hand brushing against her side where the broken blade rested. Her question wasn’t a challenge but an attempt to understand the gravity of the situation. She’d never considered what it meant to leave everything behind for an adventure.

---

Rcticwolf

“Simple, I can’t run the shop if I’m not there, and I never leave without Jewel, so nobody would be there to run the shop” Lucina teplied

“We just have to make sure everything is stored safely before we go” Jewel added

“But I’ll be sure to finish your rapier before I leave Lou” Lucina smiled “and I can help you with a bit of armor if you are going to join in on this adventure” she added


The guild master continued talking “now as always, just remember to be careful when traveling through the human kingdom, even if you are adventurers in service to the guild they still look down on us” the guild master stated

Lucina looked at Lou “yeah, if you weren’t aware, the kingdom of Duulahaan doesn’t like anything that isn’t human” she sighed

 

[Moonberry]

Lou perked up slightly at the mention of armor, her stormy grey eyes widening with a flicker of excitement. Her own armor? That was something she had never considered before. Growing up, she had always admired the knights in shining plate, the warriors adorned in protective gear as they strode confidently through the city streets. But she had never thought she’d get the chance to have any for herself.

She nodded quickly, her short brown hair bouncing slightly as she did. The idea of having something made just for her, something real and solid—something that made her feel like she belonged in this world of adventurers—sent a thrill through her chest. She could already picture herself standing strong in battle, blade in hand, armor glinting in the sun. It didn’t matter that her sword was broken. It didn’t matter that she had never actually been in a real fight. That would all change soon.

Her grip on the rapier’s hilt tightened as Lucina spoke again, warning about the dangers of traveling through the human kingdom. Lou’s excitement dimmed just slightly, but she kept her expression neutral. Of course, she knew about Duullahan’s views on non-humans. She had grown up hearing the whispered rumors, the arrogant boasts of noblemen who treated beastkin and other races as lesser. Even in her family’s household, there had always been an unspoken understanding that humans were superior.

But none of that mattered anymore. Lou wasn’t a noble, not anymore. She was just Lou—a nobody, a runaway, a swordswoman in the making. And right now, she had a choice to make.

She straightened in her seat, eyes locked onto Lucina with firm determination. “I still want to go,” she said, her voice steady but filled with that eager, reckless kind of confidence that only youth could afford. “I can fight. I know how to use a sword, and I won’t slow you down. I want to help.”

Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as she spoke, excitement and nerves clashing in her chest. This was it—the first step toward something bigger than herself. She wasn’t just running anymore. She was choosing to step forward.

And she wasn’t going to turn back.

---

Rcticwolf

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou perked up slightly at the mention of armor, her stormy grey eyes widening with a flicker of excitement. Her own armor? That was something she had never considered before. Growing up, she had always admired the knights in shining plate, the warriors adorned in protective gear as they strode confidently through the city streets. But she had never thought she’d get the chance to have any for herself.

She nodded quickly, her short brown hair bouncing slightly as she did. The idea of having something made just for her, something real and solid—something that made her feel like she belonged in this world of adventurers—sent a thrill through her chest. She could already picture herself standing strong in battle, blade in hand, armor glinting in the sun. It didn’t matter that her sword was broken. It didn’t matter that she had never actually been in a real fight. That would all change soon.

Her grip on the rapier’s hilt tightened as Lucina spoke again, warning about the dangers of traveling through the human kingdom. Lou’s excitement dimmed just slightly, but she kept her expression neutral. Of course, she knew about Duullahan’s views on non-humans. She had grown up hearing the whispered rumors, the arrogant boasts of noblemen who treated beastkin and other races as lesser. Even in her family’s household, there had always been an unspoken understanding that humans were superior.

But none of that mattered anymore. Lou wasn’t a noble, not anymore. She was just Lou—a nobody, a runaway, a swordswoman in the making. And right now, she had a choice to make.

She straightened in her seat, eyes locked onto Lucina with firm determination. “I still want to go,” she said, her voice steady but filled with that eager, reckless kind of confidence that only youth could afford. “I can fight. I know how to use a sword, and I won’t slow you down. I want to help.”

Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as she spoke, excitement and nerves clashing in her chest. This was it—the first step toward something bigger than herself. She wasn’t just running anymore. She was choosing to step forward.

And she wasn’t going to turn back.

---

Rcticwolf

Lucina chuckled “alright, let’s get you measured first, then we can get you something to keep you safe for the most part”

Jewel looked at Lou “and maybe we can get you something to eat and a place to stay”

“Now that won’t be free, but I’m sure we can make some arrangement with my parents” Lucina added before getting up and heading to the door.

Jewel got up as well and walked with Lou as they followed her, they passed the Dragons Horde workshop and approached another building that had a few stories and a rather ornate wood carved door.

“Welcome to the Dragon’s Keep Lou” Lucina chuckled “this is my parents Inn” she added and they headed inside

Lou would soon be greeted by a woman in her 50s that smiled at her “welcome little one, welcome to our inn” she smiled

“Hi Mom” Lucina smiled

“Oh hi Lulu, what are you doing here?” She asked curiously

“We’ve got a burgeoning adventurer on our hands, her face practically lit up when I asked if she wanted to go on an adventure” Lucina smiled

“Well now that’s something, now why would an adorable girl like you want to dirty her hands with an adventure?” Lucina’s mom asked Lou as she looked at her

“Now now dear, don’t be rude, she probably has her reasons” a man stated as he also approached

“Hi dad” Lucina smiled

“Hey kiddo, what are you up to?” He asked

“Just thought I’d help get this girls a bath, and get her measurements for some armor” she stated

 

[Moonberry]

Lou’s steps slowed slightly as they approached the grand wooden door of The Dragon’s Keep. Her stormy grey eyes flickered over the ornate carvings, a stark contrast to the rough, nondescript places she had been sleeping in for the past few days. It was warm here—welcoming, even—but she still hesitated at the threshold, shifting on her feet before following Lucina and Jewel inside.

The smell of roasted meat, spiced bread, and something faintly sweet lingered in the air, making Lou’s stomach twist with a sudden, sharp hunger. She hadn’t realized how empty she felt until now. She’d been running for so long, barely stopping to rest, let alone eat a proper meal.

Her attention snapped forward as a warm, motherly voice greeted her. Lou instinctively straightened, suddenly aware of how ragged she must look. Her clothes were stained from travel, her short brown hair still messy from the forge’s heat, and she probably smelled awful.

And yet, the woman smiled at her.

Lou blinked, caught off guard. She wasn’t used to being welcomed so easily.

Then, the woman called Lucina Lulu, and Lou's mind ground to a halt. Lulu? That was… unexpected.

She barely had time to process it before Lucina’s mother turned her attention to her fully, calling her adorable. Lou stiffened slightly, heat creeping up her neck. Adorable? That was not what she was going for. She was supposed to be tough. Cool. Dangerous, even. She resisted the urge to fidget, shifting uncomfortably under the woman’s gaze.

“I—” she started, unsure how to respond, but before she could say anything, a deep, reassuring voice cut in, saving her from floundering.

Lucina’s father.

Lou’s stormy gaze flicked between them both, the warmth in their words feeling foreign but… not unpleasant. They were kind. Just like that. No expectations, no demands. Just a simple acknowledgment that she probably had her own reasons.

She swallowed, then forced herself to square her shoulders, lifting her chin slightly as she finally answered the question. “Because… I want to.” Her voice was steadier this time, quieter but sure. “I want to help people. And I can fight.”

She hesitated, glancing down briefly, before adding in a more sheepish tone, “Even if my sword’s a little… broken.”

She wasn’t sure what reaction she was expecting, but she braced herself nonetheless

Rcticwolf

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou’s steps slowed slightly as they approached the grand wooden door of The Dragon’s Keep. Her stormy grey eyes flickered over the ornate carvings, a stark contrast to the rough, nondescript places she had been sleeping in for the past few days. It was warm here—welcoming, even—but she still hesitated at the threshold, shifting on her feet before following Lucina and Jewel inside.

The smell of roasted meat, spiced bread, and something faintly sweet lingered in the air, making Lou’s stomach twist with a sudden, sharp hunger. She hadn’t realized how empty she felt until now. She’d been running for so long, barely stopping to rest, let alone eat a proper meal.

Her attention snapped forward as a warm, motherly voice greeted her. Lou instinctively straightened, suddenly aware of how ragged she must look. Her clothes were stained from travel, her short brown hair still messy from the forge’s heat, and she probably smelled awful.

And yet, the woman smiled at her.

Lou blinked, caught off guard. She wasn’t used to being welcomed so easily.

Then, the woman called Lucina Lulu, and Lou's mind ground to a halt. Lulu? That was… unexpected.

She barely had time to process it before Lucina’s mother turned her attention to her fully, calling her adorable. Lou stiffened slightly, heat creeping up her neck. Adorable? That was not what she was going for. She was supposed to be tough. Cool. Dangerous, even. She resisted the urge to fidget, shifting uncomfortably under the woman’s gaze.

“I—” she started, unsure how to respond, but before she could say anything, a deep, reassuring voice cut in, saving her from floundering.

Lucina’s father.

Lou’s stormy gaze flicked between them both, the warmth in their words feeling foreign but… not unpleasant. They were kind. Just like that. No expectations, no demands. Just a simple acknowledgment that she probably had her own reasons.

She swallowed, then forced herself to square her shoulders, lifting her chin slightly as she finally answered the question. “Because… I want to.” Her voice was steadier this time, quieter but sure. “I want to help people. And I can fight.”

She hesitated, glancing down briefly, before adding in a more sheepish tone, “Even if my sword’s a little… broken.”

She wasn’t sure what reaction she was expecting, but she braced herself nonetheless

Rcticwolf

“Don’t worry dear, I’m sure my Lulu will have everything taken care of… you know, you look to be just about her size when she was younger” Lucina’s mom stated “do you still have it Lulu?” She asked

“Of course mom, it’s too valuable to just discard” Lucina replied “but I suppose she could borrow it until I can make her some to tide her over.” Lucina added

“Haha still adamant with your masters teachings huh?” Janus chuckled

“Oh come on dad, do you really have to put it like that?” Lucina asked

Janus looked at Lou “so I’m assuming you’ll want some food after that bath right? We will whip something up so you should go to the bath and get cleaned up” he stated and walked to the kitchen with Lucina’s mom.

Lucina chuckled and her and jewel began pushing Lou to the bath portion of the inn “don’t worry Lou, the baths are separated so you don’t have to worry about guys trying to sneak a peak, plus if they try, they’ll have to answer to me” she grinned

I’m nice they reached the changing room Lucina took the sword hilt from Lou and placed it in a cubby set in the wall “just take off your clothes and put them in here, I’ll have jewel grab some fresh ones for you while we are drying off” Lucina smiled

Lou could then see both of them get undressed, jewel immediately went to the bath and got in, Lucina on the other hand stretched as she removed her top, showing that her chest was slightly bigger then when she was wearing her clothes.

Lucina smiled at Lou and gently got into the hot water “come on Lou, the water feels great, hurry up and get in here”

 

[Moonberry]

Lou let herself be guided along, her steps hesitant but steady. She hadn’t expected any of this—the warmth of the inn, the casual generosity of Lucina’s family, the ease with which they accepted her presence. It felt strange. Too normal.

And now, the bath.

She stood stiffly in the changing room, her stormy grey eyes flickering over the wooden cubbies and the rising steam curling from the bath beyond. It should have felt familiar—bathing in an actual bathhouse rather than scrubbing the dirt off in a freezing river. She had done this before. Back at home, before everything had shattered.

But standing here now, with Lucina and Jewel stripping down without hesitation, she felt like an imposter.

She wasn’t Lady Elouise Beaumont anymore. She was just Lou. A runaway. A girl in ragged clothes with a broken sword.

She forced herself to move, watching Lucina take her rapier’s hilt and place it carefully into a cubby. Her fingers twitched at the loss of its weight, an instinctive urge to keep it close. But she let it go. It would still be there when she came back. It was safe.

Lucina’s voice cut through her thoughts, calling her into the water.

Lou hesitated, her hands hovering near the hem of her tunic. She had bathed like this before. With servants waiting just outside, with perfumes in the water, with soft towels and a carefully laid-out change of clothes. It had been second nature. Expected.

That was a lifetime ago.

Now, she had spent days caked in dirt, sweat, and exhaustion, living like a fugitive. She was used to bathing quickly—efficiently—in rivers or stolen moments in dingy taverns where she had to keep one eye open. She wasn’t used to slowing down.

With a sharp inhale, she finally moved, peeling off her cloak and tunic and tossing them into the cubby with too much force. Her boots and trousers followed, her movements quick, almost defensive, as if she expected someone to stop her. But no one did.

She stepped into the bath, the heat wrapping around her like a forgotten memory. Her breath hitched as she sank lower, the warmth seeping into her muscles, unraveling the stiffness in her limbs. It felt too good. Too much like the past.

Her fingers drifted across the water’s surface as she stared at the ripples, watching them distort and settle.

She ran her hands over her arms, watching as the dirt washed away, revealing pale skin beneath. It felt strange to be clean again. Exhaling slowly, letting her shoulders relax for the first time in what felt like forever.

Rcticwolf

 

[AquaMarie]

(Okay hope this is good to come in......I thought I posted but it looks like I never sent in my post >-<. Noticed after i cheeked why i have not seen anything. Though if this dose not work let me know and i can change it)

Makimi a small female seakin in her human form walked towards a building. Curls of blue hair peeked from the hood of the cloak she wore as she made her way to the Dragon’s Keep Inn in the town of Ju on the west coast of the Hasani Collective’s continent. She had been sent to this place by her mother Gali to meet up with a friend of hers. She was nervous and unsure about this new place. However she was brave and wanting to honor her mother.

 

[Rcticwolf]

(Okay hope this is good to come in......I thought I posted but it looks like I never sent in my post >-<. Noticed after i cheeked why i have not seen anything. Though if this dose not work let me know and i can change it)

Makimi a small female seakin in her human form walked towards a building. Curls of blue hair peeked from the hood of the cloak she wore as she made her way to the Dragon’s Keep Inn in the town of Ju on the west coast of the Hasani Collective’s continent. She had been sent to this place by her mother Gali to meet up with a friend of hers. She was nervous and unsure about this new place. However she was brave and wanting to honor her mother.

(No worries dear, it’s fine, you know I’m casual)

Upon reaching the Inn Makimi could see the expertly carved wooden door and statue that resembled a dragon. However not long after she walked up Janus opened the door. “Well if it isn’t the Sea Princess, what brings you here little one?” He asked curiously. “Oh pardon me” he chuckled “come in, no sense in keeping you outside” he smiled and stepped aside to let her in.

“Oh honey who is this?” Janus’s wife asked

He chuckled “this is little Makimi, daughter of Gali”

“Oh Gali? Is t she the Queen of the Sea?” She asked

“Indeed” he replied and turned back to Makimi “so what can we do for you’ve he asked

 

[Rcticwolf]

Lou let herself be guided along, her steps hesitant but steady. She hadn’t expected any of this—the warmth of the inn, the casual generosity of Lucina’s family, the ease with which they accepted her presence. It felt strange. Too normal.

And now, the bath.

She stood stiffly in the changing room, her stormy grey eyes flickering over the wooden cubbies and the rising steam curling from the bath beyond. It should have felt familiar—bathing in an actual bathhouse rather than scrubbing the dirt off in a freezing river. She had done this before. Back at home, before everything had shattered.

But standing here now, with Lucina and Jewel stripping down without hesitation, she felt like an imposter.

She wasn’t Lady Elouise Beaumont anymore. She was just Lou. A runaway. A girl in ragged clothes with a broken sword.

She forced herself to move, watching Lucina take her rapier’s hilt and place it carefully into a cubby. Her fingers twitched at the loss of its weight, an instinctive urge to keep it close. But she let it go. It would still be there when she came back. It was safe.

Lucina’s voice cut through her thoughts, calling her into the water.

Lou hesitated, her hands hovering near the hem of her tunic. She had bathed like this before. With servants waiting just outside, with perfumes in the water, with soft towels and a carefully laid-out change of clothes. It had been second nature. Expected.

That was a lifetime ago.

Now, she had spent days caked in dirt, sweat, and exhaustion, living like a fugitive. She was used to bathing quickly—efficiently—in rivers or stolen moments in dingy taverns where she had to keep one eye open. She wasn’t used to slowing down.

With a sharp inhale, she finally moved, peeling off her cloak and tunic and tossing them into the cubby with too much force. Her boots and trousers followed, her movements quick, almost defensive, as if she expected someone to stop her. But no one did.

She stepped into the bath, the heat wrapping around her like a forgotten memory. Her breath hitched as she sank lower, the warmth seeping into her muscles, unraveling the stiffness in her limbs. It felt too good. Too much like the past.

Her fingers drifted across the water’s surface as she stared at the ripples, watching them distort and settle.

She ran her hands over her arms, watching as the dirt washed away, revealing pale skin beneath. It felt strange to be clean again. Exhaling slowly, letting her shoulders relax for the first time in what felt like forever.

Rcticwolf

While Lou was distracted with the bath Lucina snuck up behind her. “Well now little Lou, you are quite adorable now that you’re clean, and a bit bigger than I was at your size, I might have to make some alterations to one of my old outfits. Hopefully you don’t mind some leather and chainmail”

“Lady Lucina please, we may be alone in here but you must still not act in such a manner” Jewel stated

Lucina sighed “I suppose you’re right, but if I have to make alterations I do need measurements.” She grinned as her hands started to check Lou over

Jewel stood up and rushed over and quickly removed her hands from Lou “my lady please!” She protested “I’m sorry Lou” she stated as she looked at lou

“Oh Jewel, are you saying your jealous again” She grinned

Jewel took a step back “n..no, I…I’m not”

“Well Jewel just remember, I know where all your weak points are at” Lucina stated and grabbed Jewel before scratching her cat ears, causing Jewel to practically melt as she began to purr

“m..my l..lady, th..that’s not f…fair” Jewel purred

Lucina looked at Lou “don’t worry about her Lou, she may look like a cat beastkin, but that’s just how I wanted her” she smiled “you can come pet her tail if you like, she’s very protective of it”

“N…no, please… not my… tail” Jewel meowed

 

[Moonberry]

Lou stiffened when Lucina’s hands suddenly ghosted over her, instinctively tensing as if she were about to be grabbed. Her first instinct was to recoil, but she forced herself to stay still, stormy grey eyes darting to the side, trying to gauge whether this was some kind of test or just how Lucina was. The casual familiarity, the teasing tone—it was all so different from what she was used to.

She’d grown up with distance. Measured politeness. Even in training, the touch of a sparring partner had been firm and intentional, a reminder of duty, not… whatever this was.

She barely had time to process it before Jewel intervened, quickly prying Lucina away and apologizing. Lou exhaled, the tension in her shoulders loosening slightly, though her heart still pounded in her chest. She wasn’t sure if it was from surprise or something else.

As Lucina turned her attention to Jewel instead, Lou watched, unsure whether to be amused or just bewildered. She blinked at the sight of Jewel melting under the ear scratches, her purring filling the bathhouse like some kind of enchanted spell. The sheer contrast between her usual composed demeanor and the way she completely unraveled under Lucina’s touch was… unexpected.

Lou hesitated, shifting in the water, unsure what to do with herself. Then Lucina turned back to her, still grinning, still pushing the boundaries of what Lou considered normal.

Her ears flicked slightly at the invitation to pet Jewel’s tail.

Lou’s gaze flickered toward the swishing appendage, curiosity warring with restraint. She wasn’t a stranger to beastkin—there had been a few in the city, though they were often treated like lesser beings, something she’d never agreed with. But she’d never been close enough to even think about touching a tail before.

Her fingers twitched under the water.

A part of her wanted to reach out. Not just for the sake of curiosity, but because it was the kind of thing Lou might do—this new version of herself who wasn’t a noble, who wasn’t bound by rules of etiquette and distance.

But another part of her—the part that still carried the weight of her old life—held her back.

Instead, she crossed her arms over her chest and leaned back slightly, fixing Lucina with a flat stare, though there was a flicker of amusement in her stormy grey eyes.

“I think I’ll pass,” she said dryly. “I don’t think Jewel would survive it.”

She flicked a glance at the cat-like construct, who was still trapped in Lucina’s grasp, tail twitching in clear distress. A smirk tugged at Lou’s lips before she quickly hid it, schooling her expression into neutrality again.

Instead, she turned her attention to something more pressing.

“You said something about armor,” she said, shifting slightly in the water. “What kind of alterations do you need to make? I can move pretty fast in a fight, so I don’t want something too heavy.”

She wasn’t completely comfortable with the teasing yet, but this—this, she could talk about. Something practical. Something that meant she was one step closer to being ready.