• This section is for roleplays only.
    ALL interest checks/recruiting threads must go in the Recruit Here section.

    Please remember to credit artists when using works not your own.

Fantasy Newfound Lands - Dark Marsh Expedition

OOC
Here
Characters
Here
Lore
Here
klaus-pillon-camp-night-sketch-001.jpg

THE DARK MARSH - EXPEDITION CAMPSITE
Art Source / #2F4F4F
It's early morning at the campsite. The smell of potpourri clings to the air, scattered over campfires to drive away the infestations. Drones of cicadas mix with the birdcall and distant croak of denizens. The air is motionless as the stagnant waters, but still cool enough that the humidity is not of discomfort.

There is very little to the campsite. The elevated ground is too soft for structures, so disorganised arrays of tents serve the purposes of the expedition. A total of eleven fireplaces surround the central warpstone, each of them numbered. The first four are dedicated to the researchers and their stacks of cages that gurgle and hiss. Five through seven for the guard, who welcome any distraction from the intollerable discussions about bugs and leeches. The final four serve the Wayfarers' purposes, whether as temporary shelter from the elements or a place to heal.

One such campfire is already occupied--a mercenary group, hunting the local fauna. It is at campfire nine that the promised expedition awaits, one member already present.

•• ━━━━━ •• ━━━━━ ••●•• ━━━━━ •• ━━━━━ ••

des8rg3-b1d17b96-8556-4686-b4c8-7b35c62f3f3a.jpg
Ymir
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: Megilagor Megilagor Vanguard Vanguard RatKing RatKing Key of Stars Key of Stars Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread SleepyConley SleepyConley Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Sona Radar Sona Radar BFabulous BFabulous
Ymir watched the dying fire in front of her with narrowed eyes, daring it to go out before one of the guards noticed. She sat on a bench around the ninth section, entertaining herself by throwing handfuls of dried incense into the pit every time it looked to perish, making shapes out of the plumes of smoke that resulted. The early morning was a wonderful time. She loved the peace and solitude of a world to herself, without the pressures of the day ahead.

Though on this particular morning, she was getting sick of waiting.

The Dark Marsh was not her ideal destination for an expedition. It was a mixture of ludicrous pay for relatively simple tasks, and having almost nothing else available that led to her putting in an application to lead an expedition. The Wastelands would be much better in terms of familiarity. Or even the North--though it had been a while since she'd last been there. But no-name Wayfarers didn't often get a choice. Everyone wanted to go to the Treasure Isles or fight the Kobold armies. The reality was most got stuck choosing errand missions or search and rescue efforts.

Not much different from before.

She sighed, throwing another handful of potpourri onto the fire. One of the research tents served their own pick me up juice she had thus far avoided, given it was sourced from... local materials, and looked closer to sludge than aromatic tea. She wasn't sure how many adventurers would show up for her posting. Most people organised their teams beforehand and this one was at the bright of dawn, but it couldn't be helped. They needed to leave early if they wanted to rest during the worst part of the day. She supposed if there were less than two others she'd have to call it though.
 



Za Uta
cb5f7216f9d755c36c0cac078439d8fa.jpg
Za would let out a sigh, he had become a Wayfarer but not much in terms of work he reckoned. He was ready to fight, to save lives, to adventure, to explore, to find treasure, anything, something to take his mind off the pain that is his existence. Za can hear the whispers from the dead and he keeps hearing his dead family cry out to him in pain, why didn't he save them? He'll hold his head in pain. Looking through the recent job boards posted in his local town, he noticed something interesting. A lone Wayfarer had put up an expedition flier, it was an expedition in the Dark Marsh.

Being from the land of tribes, he was used to a bit of bugs and humidity. So, he reckoned why not take up this job as his first big expedition into an unknown land... adventure. Finally something.

It would take a few days but Za would arrive at the area the poster had put on the flier, Ymir. Arriving he would notice a woman at a dying campfire. The Marsh wasn't as bad as he thought although, he is going to have to bring a change of clothes because of the mud. Za will introduce himself, a member of the Ghost Tribe, the only member. He will be quiet, straightforward and awkward. Not really sure what to say, but happy to be here.

"Mam, can I join your expedition team to the Dark Marsh?" Sylph Sylph

(hope this is good...)





 
Vyilkihild

2d230df6-8347-4c86-998a-897160a2ea6e.jpg

The dark marshes that her beginnings had brought her to weren't the most pleasant surroundings to the eye, hearing what to others would be the distinct sounds of cicadas in their favoured gloomy habitat. She wasn't used to having to deal with the silence breaking insects which lived in the vicinity, wondering if that she would rather deal with the ambience of people and the wind rather than the disturbance of a pest. She had just recently arrived around two or three minutes ago, the sight of people making a stay in the warmth of fire light was a better sight for the eyes than being alone as she peacefully and softly greeted herself to the first she chose to speak to. This entire thing was quite new, so making sure that she ended up in the right place through questions was the best place to start, as well as to settle any glances she got from being definitively out of place.

Having took a small look at the goings on around the other fires, she surmised what she may have been looking for upon the visual of a lone woman sat keeping her mind busy with the lifespan of the flame that sat in front of her. She looked like whatever she was doing in such a dark place wouldn't have been her first time with unfortunate circumstances given her strangely subtle appearance of confidence given her solitude and attitude. Vyilkihild didn't let such surroundings try to affect or break her maturity, but under the hood she felt nervousness over being somewhere so far and different to home with nobody familiar she could look to for help. 'Remember, Oeuchkhyunhilder, for the day of hardship you travel through today, or even the week of it; You will remember it not when it is gone and commonly come are the days of normalcy to you. Khychien vruitlant cuetanschien nyecht.' she thought to herself, mumbling in repeat some of which she spoke to herself in her mind as she hoped to inspire confidence inside of her that she was doing things right.

Approaching the lone woman, she noticed that she was not the first to approach her. A male character of unknown origin, she felt like she could recognise that he wasn't just human albeit she didn't know what to place her tongue at what kind he would be found home along. Deciding that awaiting was a choice of a short while ago, she chose to be forward and introduce herself to the two that were already present. "
My sorry for the interruption, but I am looking for such an expedition I have found recruitment for as a Wayfarer. I hope my travels didn't bring me here for naught" she spoke as she chose to take seat on the floor for a brief moment. She didn't disrespect or overlook the capabilities of what others could have possessed in comparison to her, but her species was taller and brawnier than others and would rather not have to cause the trouble of making others look up at her upon first meeting. Whatever residue of much laid on her clothes could be dealt with later, she was used to dealing with invasive stains as such would freeze over in the cold back at home.

Interactions: Ymir Sylph Sylph , Za Uta SleepyConley SleepyConley
 
The Wizard
Location: Campfire Nine
Sylph Sylph Sona Radar Sona Radar SleepyConley SleepyConley

The Wizard carried a pack full of materials over to his assigned team of Wayfarers. He'd been out hunting to procure things for them to eat or make medicine. A certain half-elf had taught him quite a bit about medicinal plants before they had parted ways. Plus he had knowledge of hunting from his teachings under Chief Zug'Zug. The Wizard stood next to Ymir and greeted her with a nod. "Its good to see you again, Ymir. Last we met were those exercises under those troublesome siblings. The Wizard has come with food" stated the mage. He likely looked a bit different than he did when they last met. His physique had improved due to his harsh training while his temperament was a bit more calm. Two members of their group had already shown up. Others had signed up for Ymir's team after all. How lucky they were as strength could be found in numbers. Both of them looked very unique but could prove useful in the times to come.

Setting up his big pot for cooking. The Wizard brought out a bunch of things that clearly did not look like food. Assuring his companions that he had learned the culinary arts from the Orcs. He threw three highly toxic looking mushrooms, a big purple egg and some white pepper looking things. At first the smell was so vile that it would burn the nosehair of lesser men who were not The Wizard. Finally he managed to cobble together something that both looked and smelled like food. Telling the group that they should eat to keep their strength. Making a bit more just in case they got a few more members. The Wizard sat down and began eating.

1684479867947.png
 
Maika
Location: Dark marsh expedition campsite

The marsh's stale muddy water gave way as a large quadripedal beast dragged its body through. Said beast was a giant tortoise with a body so mossy an oak tree literally grew on its shell, making it looks like a small island moving through the swamp. On the tortoise's head was a boy with ragged wool cloak with a wooden cane that he use to tap the tortoie's forehead, gently telling the beast of the direction it should move. On the shell, sitting under the oak tree, was a tentacled blue merfolk who was enjoying the dull scenery of the marsh and the locally made mixed herbs inside her smoking pipe. Next to her was a small frog-shaped wooden incense jar that lets out a subtle fragrance of citrus. The incense drive away some potential blood sucker from her, and coupled with the fact that she's cold-blooded, she had experience no problem with the insect in the marsh so far.

The little group finally arrived at the elevated clearing where the tents were. The boy jumped onto the land and gave the tortoise some pats before looking at the passenger.

"It's here, the expedition camp." He pointed at the tents.

The merfolk nodded and jumped off the shell, her landing made a slight squishy noise as the wet soil buckle under her weight. Maika realized that she forgot to consider something important, the soils here was wet so it would soak the bottom part of her coat with some layer of mud. Bedgrudgingly she rolled up a part of her coat and pinned it with some needles so it wouldn't roll back down, but it left her tendrils visible and she felts somewhat exposed because of that. Nevertheless, she handed the boy a small sack with some amount of coins inside. It had been a fun trip while it last, but now its time for her to work.

Maika's tendrils slithered across the soil as she made her way towards the camps, instead of footprint she left something that more resembles several overlaid snake's trails. She's looking for a mercenary band and she easily found them simply by the facts this group was the only one that didn't have some sort of uniform. There's already several people here, a woman with armor, a pale elf, a tall woman and the cooking guy. Yup, seems totally like her kind of group. Reminds her of her piracy days with such ragtag team. She didn't even said anything and just acts as if she belongs there.

She left her briefcase next to a rotting log and put her incense jar on it. She wasn't really hungry but she peeked into the pot next to the cooking guy anyway. The food didn't seems like anything she had try before so she took some of it onto a leaf that she used as substitute for plate and gave it a taste.

"Taste okay, smells a bit weird." She commented about the food after she wolf down her meal in three bites, including the leaf plate. She then follows it by cusping her hands together in front of the pot as a silent appreciation for the food.

"So, what's the objective?" She asked to basically anyone, since she didn't know who the expedition leader was.

Sylph Sylph SleepyConley SleepyConley Sona Radar Sona Radar Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia
 
Last edited:
des8rg3-b1d17b96-8556-4686-b4c8-7b35c62f3f3a.jpg
Ymir
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: SleepyConley SleepyConley Sona Radar Sona Radar Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread
There was a commotion by the guards to the entrance to the camp. Nothing more than a distant jumble of words, greetings she'd probably heard already. Ymir's lit up, the center of them ringed with gold as an outline of the camp appeared in her minds eye. She noted the figure talking to the guards at the entrance, nothing particularly of note except they were much slighter in frame than the two soldiers. More alarming was the beast that approached from a further distance, as large and slow-moving as a two story residence. Ymir wondered if she should warn someone of its presence. Stretching her magic among the colossal roots surrounding the camp, she eventually decided against it.

The fire in front of her returned to focus after a moment. Ymir sat up, trying to look at least a little bit friendly as the initial newcomer came into sight of the area, hiding a flicker of concern on seeing the pallor of their skin.

They looked ready to stare down the reaper, was her first thought. That pupilless second eye of theirs didn't seem like the product of an injury, though their pale skin and muted tones of greens and grey blended well with the surroundings, leading her to wonder if they were not perhaps a local?

Za quickly put a rest to those thoughts. It was the first time Ymir had ever heard such things as the Ghost Elves, though his assertion of being the final member of his tribe did explain why. "Mam, can I join your expedition team to the Dark Marsh?"

They were new to adventuring, she guessed on their uncertain brevity. Or at the very least not used to groups. "Call me Ymir," she amended, otherwise accepting his request. Noticing the approach of a second member Ymir stood, figuring she probably shouldn't be sitting if she were to greet more than one. Though she soon came to regret that choice.

"My sorry for the interruption, but I am looking for such an expedition I have found recruitment for as a Wayfarer." This woman differed significantly from the elf. Ymir supposed she should've expected a medley crew, with such a vague posting. Vyilkihild, as she soon introduced herself, was most certainly from the North, if the insulated furs she wore were any indication. She towered well above Ymir, which made it both a relief and somewhat of a conundrum when she took a seat near the campfire. "I hope my travels didn't bring me here for naught."

Ahh, this is awkward. Do I sit now or stand?

Ymir waved away the question, deciding to remain on her feet. "It seems we've more on the way so numbers won't be an issue. This is Za," she gestured to the Ghost Elf. Vyilki appeared rather soft-spoken for her stature, so Ymir hoped the two might get along. Despite the imposing air of the giantess, her demeanor was a welcoming one.

She was surprised to see the next face was a familiar one. Wizard had grown since she'd last seen him, almost unrecognisable without the hat he had previously worn. She supposed he was tall enough now that he didn't need the extra height, and had the self-assurance of someone who didn't need a brim to hide behind. "It's good to see you again, Ymir..."

"Likewise,"
she said, watching him traipse to the dying campfire she previously tended, reviving it with little but a wave. He continued to speak as he setup the pot for cooking, and she vaguely wondered if he intended to tow that around with him the whole journey. It looked heavy. "Still speaking in the third person? Y'know, if we're going to be teammates, I was hoping to learn your actual name," she said off-hand. It was a funny quirk back when she'd first learned about the boy in the guild who wore a too large hat and proclaimed himself a magician, but after all this time it was curious he hadn't grown out of it.

He'd developed an... aptitude, for cooking as well. Ymir wrinkled her nose, driving the pungent aroma in the opposite direction with a subtle breeze. Eventually it started to smell less like vaporised acid, but she had no intentions of tasting whatever he'd cooked up.

Not so for the new member. Ymir had blinked a couple times on seeing the appearance of a merfolk, surprised to see one so far inland. Several... ocean-creature appendages supported their body. Ymir didn't know nearly enough about seafolk to recall what fish they might resemble. Caught up in her thoughts she neglected to actually say anything to the newcomer. Stuck on what to say, she watched instead as they set down their briefcase, taking a sample of the food and scarfing it down in record speed. They seemed completely at ease. With such confidence Ymir was tempted to call them the expedition leader instead.

"So, what's the objective?" The newcomer asked, after giving their thoughts on the food. It was enough to remind Ymir that she was in fact the only one with that information. Scratching the back of her head she replied with a sheepish laugh.

"Search and rescue. I'm Ymir, this is Za, Vyilkidi.. hi... Vhilkidaha?" She cast the northern woman an apologetic glance. "It's best she says her name. And the one cooking is Wizard. Am I correct in assuming this isn't your first time on an expedition?" Maika, the girl would soon introduce herself as. Ymir thought it would be good to have at least some who wasn't new to the experience of expeditions as a whole.
 
Last edited:
Alyssa Enren.jpgAlyssa Enren
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: Sylph Sylph Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Sona Radar Sona Radar SleepyConley SleepyConley

Alyssa stumbled slightly as she arrived at her destination, straightening out immediately and looking around the camp to see if anyone had seen her stumble. Stumbling because of something trivial as getting warped was more than a little embarrassing for Alyssa, a girl who'd spent the better part of her life aboard a ship and wouldn't so much as budge when faced with the roughest of waves and most violent of storms. She scratched her small silver companion under its chin. "Well, here we are Husk." She mumbled, more to herself than anyone. After all, her silver rabbit companion wasn't capable of making as much as a sound.

She looked around the campsite. The marsh really wasn't her preferred choice of expedition location, but, if she wanted to rise through the ranks, she would have to take whatever expedition came her way. Still, out of any location, it had to be a marsh. Marshes didn't have to pleasant smell and cool breeze of the ocean, nor did they have the reliable solid ground of the mainland. Honestly they were the worst of both worlds.

She spotted a group of people so different from the other groups of people around that she figured it was safe to assume those were the people she was looking for. Already five people, she sighed, she'd hoped for a smaller group, the less people were around the more her contributions to the expedition would be noticed by the higher-ups.

She approached slowly, happening to overhear the white-haired woman introduce herself to a merfolk girl. "Search and rescue. I'm Ymir," She halted, digging the tip of her boot into the soft ground. Ymir... she was familiar with that name. Not only with the name, also with the exact description of the woman in front of her. About a year ago now she and Beck, her mother's first mate, had spent countless hours acquiring every last bit of information about the defeat of the Lord of the Dead. One name had kept coming up, 'The Waystone Guild'.

After digging even deeper she and Beck had managed to uncover the names and descriptions of those that had been allegedly been present at the time of Wyck's defeat. And one of those people was standing right in front of her now. Observing the woman carefully, Alyssa was ready to discard the rumour right then and there. Sure, Ymir had some presence, but it wasn't even worth mentioning compared to even the weakest of the Lords, if this woman had met Wyck Allister there was no way she would still be alive to tell the tale. She quickly shook her head, she shouldn't be so quick to judge, no one knew exactly what had happened that day when Wyck was mysteriously defeated.

She pushed the issue to the side, planning to introduce herself first and breach the topic in the future when she had become a little bit more familiar with the white-haired woman calling herself Ymir. She approached the group, letting her eyes glide over the members in order, a merfolk, a green-haired human, a woman from a race she didn't recognize and an elf like her, well, not exactly like her, the man was clearly from a different elven race than she was. Finally, her eyes settled back on Ymir. "Ymir, right? Sorry, I couldn't help but overhear. My name is Alyssa Eckhart, headquarters informed me this is where I should be to join the expedition."
 
Vyilkihild
2d230df6-8347-4c86-998a-897160a2ea6e.jpg

Vyilkihild watched as Ymir, the leadership in the expedition, made small fret over whether or not to stand in order to be welcoming whereas she had just taken sitting at the fire. "Be it your own will, I won't make you suffer raising your gaze. I should not be above you given your experience" she answered in the upmost politeness she could manage. She strived to be softspoken to the other races of the world for their kind often were loud with their deeper tone voices. They were also naturally long winded and overcomplicated the simplest of conveyed messages. In their own culture, it was inspired from a desire of strength and power that having more to say was better. In her terms, she found it easier to convey her feelings or leave an impression with the words she chose. It also helped keep her from accidentally using Hildenworos phrasing and slang from their own language, an occurrence in their kind where both tongues mixed and utilised both. Seeing the rather discoloured elf that was also present at the fire, she greeted herself that he could call her Vyilkihild or whatever was easiest for him as she granted him a brief but endearing small smile. Albeit she acknowledged the discolouration, it wasn't as if she was outside of the same scenario as her skin was a rather pale light blue. Having noticed the average human, she took them as the norm on what to expect. "I have not seen any of your kind in my brief travels, may I hope that you will be the first of them I can call friend" she spoke in a soft yet low voice.

She gave time a brief moment to allow new faces to join the scene, taking mental note of those who joined them which included a male with cooking capabilities and a rather distinctive girl who was unlike anything she was used to. She had briefly heard of such thing as the ocean, but it sounded ridiculous as a concept to an eternal mountain dweller. Where would all that water reasonably come from? Although with the words of some, her mind had changed that such wonders could exist. Said girl with a rather moist and inhuman lower half was the weirdest thing she had seen in her lifetime. She held too many questions over the merfolk. Her state of trance over the oddity was broken at the sound of Ymir speaking again, in which she was reminded of the presence of food. Although she felt like she should at least respect the culinary efforts of the unnamed Wizard by tasting his food, she decided that she was partially self conscious about her stature giving her a bigger appetite that she didn't want to indulge upon in front of people she had just met.

"Vyilkidi.. hi... Vhilkidaha? It's best she says her name" Ymir audibly faltered over her name as the tall woman looked to meet her apologetic glance over being unable to conquer saying her name. "Vyilkihild, or Vyilki is an easier manner. I will accept what you all choose to name me by if it's too difficult. My true name is Oeuchkhyunhilder, written with the Vath as silent, but people tend to lose track not even halfway through that name" she answered sheepishly, knowing that she had been called different nicknames on the way from and even at home. The names she was coming to hear were much shorter. "If it helps your memory, Vyilkihild can acknowledge myself like your friend here. It must make them unforgettable to hear it often" she answers in a sweet joking manner. She apologised prematurely to the Wizard in case commenting on such was somehow mocking or offensive in any regard, speaking that she would be sure his food was fine despite not partaking in any.

Gently brushing her hair to be less obstructive with her own hands and running her fingers along her horns as it was a rather pleasant feeling of having such clean and smooth adornments without dirt or damage ruining them, she took her own interest in the care of herself as they were eventually joined by another member. "My name is Alyssa Eckhart, headquarters informed me this is where I should be to join the expedition" was what she had caught once she turned her sight to the newcomer, noticeably elven with a slim and gracious figure that juxtaposed her own. The elf's confidence was rather impressive even if Vyilkihild had not witnessed much, a simple yet impressioning first few words that at least made the elf admirable to her. The appearance of so many diverse individuals whom had come together to accomplish what might have been a simple task was rather astounding, wondering if her self-thought strength and capabilities would be downplayed by the unknowable potential those around her could possess.

Interactions: @ everyone that has shown up so far, I forgot to add this initially​
 
Last edited:
fR86gIF.png

Sally
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: @ Sylph Sylph @ Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread @ Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia @ Sona Radar Sona Radar @ SleepyConley SleepyConley Key of Stars Key of Stars


Sally's journey towards the expedition campsite grew longer and longer as he admired the hidden beauty of the marshes while using both of his magic affinities on the way to ease his travel to the campsite. Sometimes making some vine longer and having it tied around his waist so it can carry him over a larger creek, or making the lilypads bigger and sturdier so he could stand on them and use one as a makeshift boat.
Those were his current methods of travel, finally after some tedious but exciting journey he arrive where he was supposed to be, now he only needed to approach the correct campfire and greet his fellow travellers.
As he came closer to the ninth campfire he saw them, his companions for this expedition, each of them different from the rest and yet the same all were here for some reason and they were determined to fulfil it.

Finally, when he approached his companions they could see a thin tall young man with serpentine features, lime-green skin, and bright yellow eyes which seemed to shimmer with an enigmatic spark. Upon his head rested a wide-brimmed hat with seemingly a bird nest build on top of it but with no bird, below it laid his shaggy mop of short brown hair carefully tied into a low ponytail with a rugged leather strap. He was dressed in a dark brown vest that fit snugly onto his frame, a vibrant red sash wrapped around his waist which added a splash of color to his ensemble, his distinctive green tunic adorned with patterns reminiscent of nature's lushness, paired with his dark green pants completed only with the sturdy and tall leather boots worn and weathered through his travels.

Now finally being only a few feet away from his companions Sally placed one of his hands upon his hat taking it off and placing it upon his chest while slightly bowing and saying with a cheerful and yet serious tone.
" It seems I'm not late from what I can see. Where are my manners? My name is probably really hard for anyone to say so call me Sally, as it's probably the only name of mine that bearly fit within the easy scheme of names. Anyways it's not my first expedition but at the same time, I'm not that experienced so I would be very glad that if I make a mistake someone points it out. As some could probably tell I can bearly contain my excitement."
Upon saying what he had to say he placed his hat back on top of his head and came closer finally settling down by the campfire where another fellow with a big hat was making some food, seeing that Sally gladly took out one of his dried seaweeds from his pouch and put some of it on it before eating it and complimenting the chef the only way he knew how.
" This food is beary-licious if you can ignore it's looking like an attempt to poison someone, but I can't say anything bad about it Father Tarlach was so bad at cooking I just ate everything raw when I was with him."
 

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7

  • full
Hm. How familiar-looking. Nanalee thought idly, looking up at the Warpstone in Lantana's headquarters. It was giant and immovable, a far cry from the tiny little waystone she remembered carrying around with her, but it was still a strangely comforting sight nonetheless. I wonder how everyone's doing... She couldn't help but smile to herself, before closing her eyes and letting the rush of magic warp her across the continent.

Almost immediately, the strange sensation of her talons sinking into marsh and her ears being assaulted by a cacophony of insects came over her newly-transported body. Before she could marvel at the novelty of the new environment however, a wave of unmistakable nausea forced her to stumble and lean against a nearby tree for support. Ugh... the waystones weren't like this... She couldn't help but complain internally, leaning against the tree uneasily to regain her bearings as her eyes slowly roamed over the campsite.

As her slitted eyes locked onto a certain white-haired figure however, her face immediately lit up, half-stomping and half-attempting-to-fly as she charged through the marsh towards her old companion. "YMIR!" Nanalee exclaimed excitedly, tackling Ymir into a giant feathery hug. Memories of the sea, the sky and a certain ship warmly filled her mind. "It's been a while! I hope you've been well. I'm really looking forward to being able to adventure with you again!" She beamed brightly, carefully holding onto the human as she let her regain her balance.

On the other hand however, her nausea was not very happy with all her excitement, leaving the harpy to abruptly push the human away and cover her mouth as she tottered off to the side. Fortunately, she wasn't sick, but the feeling of both her body and mana trembling was very unpleasant. Sparing a rough glance at the rest of the party, she briefly introduced herself and slowly sat down, letting the side effects settle before she properly met all the new faces. "Hi, I'm Nanalee... Nice to meet you all, I'm here for Captain Ymir's expedition..." She beamed, whilst slowly dying on the inside.
 
Ruvo Steelfeather
Location: Dark Marsh Campsite
Ruvo stepped out of the Arcane House with ruffled feathers, visibly tired and annoyed. It had been yet another long series of nonsensical questions and tests conducted by members of the house. Ever since they had caught wind of his master, Eiru Eagna, taking him on as an apprentice, the Arcane House had taken a kind of interest in him. Whether that was because of his master’s renown in the field of magic, plain jealousy for not being chosen as apprentice themselves, or even the siren magic he was told he had inherited from a previous adventure he was not sure. What he did know was that ever since Eiru went back to Tír na nÓg, the Arcane House had taken over the role of conducting the testing they previously had her doing much to his annoyance due to its increasing frequency.

As the bard made his way through the streets of the city he eventually paused in front of the Expeditionary building. The last expedition he had been a part of was easily the wildest and most frightening thing he had ever done in his life. And yet, he found himself wanting to do something like it again though he couldn’t exactly explain why. It did at the very least beat sitting around listening to complicated magical theories for hours.

He had already been considering joining an available expedition for a while now, but had been pushing it off because of his apprenticeship and work with the carpentry guild. Now that he didn’t have the same obligations due to his master’s absence and his own lack of drive to continue the Arcane House’s tests he figured that after the day he had, why not use this as an excuse to get a taste of that adventuring lifestyle again. After all, the mages wouldn’t mind right?

Excited with the plan that was forming in his mind, Ruvo picked up the pace as he returned home to gather his things and set off to join the first expedition he could be issued from the Wayfarers.

————

Appearing before the campsite’s warpstone the bard nearly fell over from a strong feeling of disorientation. It had been a fair while since he had experienced that kind of magic and nothing can quite prepare one for it from his experience. The Dark Marsh campsite itself looked to be a comprised of a number of tents and campfires with a flowery aroma hanging in the air from whatever was being burned. He had never been in a swamp before, but if the sound of buzzing insects, muddy ground, and humid air was anything to go off of then he was sure any camping would be rough. Continuing his way into the campsite proper he eventually spotted a sizable gathering of out of place individuals in the distance that looked to be making acquaintances.

As he approached, the pungent smell of some kind of food filled the air replacing the previous flowery smell. Looking over the group he could see some familiar faces as well as ones he did not recognize. Amongst them were two elves, two humans, a harpy, an aquatic looking individual, a very tall human looking individual with horns, and a green almost serpentine looking human. “Ymir, Nanalee, Wizard! Glad to see you three again. I knew I had a good feeling about that posting” he said excitedly. “Wizard, you look…bulkier than I remember. I guess your time after the guild hasn’t been idly spent” he joked as the mage worked on the meal. “Now then I should probably introduce myself for the rest of you. I am Ruvo” he said with a strum of his instrument and a bow. “This is a uh… large group. Are we expecting this our job here to be pretty dangerous?” he asked hesitantly.
 
Last edited:
The Wizard
Location: Campfire Nine
Sylph Sylph RatKing RatKing Key of Stars Key of Stars Megilagor Megilagor Sona Radar Sona Radar SilverFeathers SilverFeathers SleepyConley SleepyConley

The Wizard was happy to see his food was popular. Living atop LIGHTNING MOUNTAIN with the ZoaTusk Tribe had forced him to seek whatever sustenance he could catch himself. Feeling the wind pick up a bit. The Wizard donned his hat that had been folded up inside his coat. His outfits may have changed somewhat since his guild days but he was still following the path of The Wizard. Now they had a merfolk, a frost lizard, an elf, a snake person and even one of Ymir's former members who had been higher ranked than him during their time in the Waystone Guild. As for Ymir's comment that he tell her his name, he scoffed. "Ymir, The Wizard is The Wizard. He has no other name. Nor does he need another name" said the mage as he flourished with his hand, sending the tail of his coat billowing in the breeze. The Wizard was truly humble with how little he needed to display his majesty. Their mission would be search and rescue. Ymir was team leader and he would ultimately look to her for any final calls or grand plans. Sitting at the fire and thinking for a moment. The Wizard contemplated writing a letter to one of the only people he kept in contact with. Unfortunately he then remembered a bitter truth. The receptionist he had grown close to just a year ago had sent him that Dear John letter that made where they stood very clear. He remembered the cheese he shared with his closest rodent friend over that little incident.

Ruvo Steelfeather made his appearance, to everyones delight. The bird bard had always been a happy sight in the guild days, Greeting the fine feathered friend he made during their intense training under the crybaby headmaster. The Wizard served him some of the questionable but good food. "The Wizard went on a journey, Ruvo. It was full of hardships and triumphs in equal measure. No doubt your adventures have yielded similar results" replied the grand and magnanimous caster. Sitting on a stump and waiting on Ymir's call to move. The Wizard began his daily lightning training. Training which consisting of quiet meditation and remembering what he felt like to be struck by lightning. Sooner or later he'd awaken his third affinity.
 
Maika
Location: Dark marsh expedition campsite

Maika listened as Ymir introduced some of the members and also when some other necomers arrived. Oeuchkhyunhilder would be a name which need some time to get used to but she would manage, Wizard was a weird name to call oneself but Maika had learned not to dig too deep into someone else's quirks unless she needs to. She's a hedge healer afterall, an unlicensed doctor, it's not uncommon for her to learn her patients secrets during a recovery process and sometimes she wished for an ability to unlearn some of those stuffs.

"My name is Maika." The merfolk nodded as she in turn introduced herself.

"I'm a chemist, I make medicine and other stuff but I can help in fight if I need to, I guess I do have some experience at traveling in unfamiliar area." She confirmed ymir's assumption.

As she observed the other members of the team, she also noticed that some of the members seemed to have already know each other. It would be beneficial for her to at least know who was already friends with who. She approached the harpy girl who seemed to be experiencing some nausea from the warp stone. Ruffling through one of the many pocket on her coat, she pulled a small cubic wrapped in dry leaf.

"For you." Maika said as she handed the cubic to Nanalee. When the leaf was unwrapped it would reveal a small fragnant honey candy inside. It's a simple herbal candy to help people with seasickness and general nausea. The taste was a bit dull for a candy but it would left a relaxing chilling sensation in the throat after a few minutes.

"Seems like you and our captain have known each other for quite a while? Not your first expedition together?" She asked the harpy.

Sylph Sylph Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia RatKing RatKing Key of Stars Key of Stars Megilagor Megilagor Sona Radar Sona Radar SilverFeathers SilverFeathers SleepyConley SleepyConley
 
...

wf.png


Ahni Strength: 30
Magic: 15
Agility: 20
Dexterity: 0
Constitution: 20
Fortitude: 15


He didn't hate the mud, though he certainly didn't like it. It clung thick to his fur and denied a stable foothold, much like the slurry of warming snow in summer. And like snow it kept its tracks, aiding his navigation.
For a time he followed the furrows of what at first he labelled, 'legged boulder' and since learned on passing its journey back was a tortoise. The thing was immense, the size of buildings, the tracks dwarfing even him. But the creature was passive, the boy atop its head offering him a confused and wary wave as he passed. The smell of citrus lingered on the tortoise, a faint trail of it hanging in the air above the tracks.

Ahni's ears pricked up at the sound of people, fire light catching his eye as he approached his destination, happy to have more solid ground beneath his paws once more.

Ah, he was late.

The huge wolf approached the group around the fire, still in the midst of introductions, sitting himself down and listening quietly- he preferred this form in unfamiliar areas and quietly thanked himself for keeping it on entry, introductions were not his forte and this allowed him a good look at everyone without the expectation of an answer to, 'why are you staring at me?'.
They were an odd bunch- not that he could judge. A merfolk, the source of the citrus trail, and one of the strangest sights he'd seen. Two elves, one who seemed near devoid of colour beside a white-haired woman. A man with... a pot? He appeared to be cooking some concoction, though whether it could be described as food was up for debate, his nose suggested otherwise. A tall woman with the distinct appearance of the north, a partial bird, a full bird, and a man with the home of a bird on his hat.
The wolf tilted his head a moment, the Guard really weren't lying when they described the Wayfarers as a patchwork of people.
 
Last edited:
The Wizard was the Wizard it seemed, complete with the folded hat he pulled out. Some things never changed. Ymir dropped the subject with a shrug, turning her attention to the unfamiliar figure who approached them.

"Ymir, right? Sorry, I couldn't help but overhear." The woman moved with grace that spoke of great confidence. The type of well-rehearsed movement Ymir found rather unpleasant. "My name is Alyssa Eckhart, headquarters informed me this is where I should be to join the expedition."

Ymir nodded as to the side Vyilki explained her name in greater detail. Meanwhile Maika spoke of her abilities. She could offer them both a reassuring smile to let them know she'd heard, but her eyes didn't stray far from the woman adorned in silver--a metal by no means opulent or showy, but that spoke of subtle wealth and influence. The quicksilver rabbit on their shoulder was cute, at the very least. Recalling that they did in face await an answer, Ymir mustered a cheery grin that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Right, right! Of course, you're in the right place. Welcome to the expedition-"

" It seems I'm not late from what I can see." Another one had snuck up on the group. Ymir was beginning to wonder if there wasn't some wisdom to organising expedition numbers beforehand. She did not need half a legion to assist in a relatively straightforward task. "...My name is probably really hard for anyone to say so call me Sally, as it's probably the only name of mine that bearly fit within the easy scheme of names." She wondered briefly if she heard wrong. The snake-eyed looking fellow hadn't just made a pun- "...as some could probably tell I can bearly contain my excitement." No, he definitely did. Ymir didn't know what to think of that, raising her brow and deciding not to comment as he made his way to the campfire. He looked right at home within the green and earthy brown tones of the marsh, sitting beside adventurers he only just met.

Her reprieve was short lived. A voice Ymir recognised called her name from nearby, and surprise mixed with an inkling of wariness she didn't quite place until she turned, catching sight of
the flurry of feathers and delight charging towards her. "YMIR!"

Harpy?! Wait, Nanalee-- no wait, HARPY--!

A strangled sound halfway between frozen terror and "hi" died in her throat as she was nearly knocked off her feet. Nanalee pulled her into an all encompassing hug. "It's been a while! I hope you've been well. I'm really looking forward to being able to adventure with you again!" The white feathers and an ice-touched aura reminded Ymir of home in many ways, not all of them pleasant. But the bright smile Nanalee adorned was nice.

Still, Ymir was able to breath easier when she was released from the feathery cage of affection. Nanalee looked ready to keel over as she introduced herself to the rest of the group. But the surprises didn't stop there.

“Ymir, Nanalee, Wizard!" It was a voice Ymir immediately recognised, as distinctive as the tropical feathers of the avian bard. She felt a twinge of guilt for how much more enthusiastic she was turning to see Ruvo. But he was just objectively less... terrifying. With smaller talons and a chirpy voice that wouldn't hurt a fly. And not charging towards her at a collision course speed--that helped.

"It's good to see you both!" Ymir said once he'd finished. Despite the initial scare, it was a relief to have members she knew she could depend on. She watched from her periphery as Maika approach Nanalee with what looked to be a motion-sickness aid, deciding then and there that the merfolk was the saint they all needed and didn't deserve.

“This is a uh… large group." Ruvo broached, an edge of his old uncertainty returning. He seemed to hold himself taller than before, but that pragmatic outlook of his hadn't changed. "Are we expecting this our job here to be pretty dangerous?”

"Hooold that thought," Ymir said, raising an uncertain finger as she eyed a new... addition to the group. She didn't know how a dog the size of a bear managed to slink, much less into a group of at least eight, but this one seemed to have managed it. The formidable creature sat on its haunches with an unrepentant look. "Nod twice if you're here for the expedition?"

She'd dealt with enough 'adventuring' animals by this point to expect it. When she got the intended response she could only shake her head, muttering something akin to 'of course' as she turned to welcome yet another arrival. This one looked to be another human, well dressed and with white hair longer and silkier than Ymir's would ever be. But they better be the last one or so help her she was going to stick half of them with guarding the camp-

"Alright! We best get started with this," Ymir said after the ceremonial passing around of names was accomplished. Pulling a well-worn parchment from her bag she spread it over one of the logs surrounding the campfire. They wouldn't all be able to see at once, but there wasn't too much aside from some extra details and annotations that differed from the enchanted map they all carried. "The main objective here is to investigate the disappearance of several research teams. I've marked the areas around where they were last active, but they vary in time since last contact. Recently a new team failed to attend mandatory reporting, so they've been declared missing. We'll be headed to their area first, but there are two other groups we'll look for if we get the chance. One that's missed their check-in for several days, and a team that have been without contact for over a week."
Bright red (south-west of camp) = area of most recent disappearance.
Plain Red (south-east of camp) = area of team missing for several days.
Dark Red (south-west of camp = area of team missing for over a week.

Marsh_Small.jpg
"We'll be leaving soon in order to avoid travelling in the worst part of the day," she said, packing up the map once everyone had been given a chance to see. "Now would be a good time to elaborate on any of your abilities you think may be helpful, if you haven't already." In the dog's case, elaborating didn't seem much of an option. But she was pretty sure they'd do rather well as a tracker. "Personally, my specialties are my wind affinity, scouting and cartography. I can see the details of physical environment around us, so I'll keep us on paths that avoid the marsh as much as possible, but I can't anticipate any magic-based threats. So stay vigilant, and keep out of the water unless you know what you're doing."

She didn't want to spend too much time on this, given how the first rays of dreaded sunlight were peeking over the canopy, but it was necessary that they didn't end up caught unawares by each others' magic. Before the early morning fog had dispersed, she wanted to be out of the camp and away from the lingering stench of the Wizard's cooking. "Any questions?"
 
Vyilkihild
3 (I'm gonna keep track now because why not)

1684782376594.png

With but the brief moment to sit and stare into the familiar appearance of a campfire and keeping her hands and personal business to herself, Vyilki started to notice how much of a small group they weren't. Especially since some of the members present were repeat adventurers who had seemingly time to grow accustom to eachother from some other time, in which started to silently strike the idea that her first adventure might be more awkward or unplaced than she thought it would be despite her attempt to be forward. Clearly it felt like there were more signups than intended for the trip, in which her confidence on her importance or chance to improve herself waned. 'Surely this must be it. I couldn't think of anyone else wanting to spend a part of their lifetime trudging through a swamp on some selfless mission with little details-' she pondered to herself with her cheek resting against her fist.

Despite her expectation that only took a few measly seconds in order to be shattered beyond comprehension, two more had shown up by the time she started paying attention to the apparent circus that was building up around the campfire. It wasn't hard to realise that more had joined them by the sound of someone crashing to another with a panicked voice caught in the mix. Quietly sighing to herself at how ridiculous things felt they were becoming at the minute, she took mental note of names whether or not they would immediately stick by the amount she had to remember at this point. Sally was probably easy enough to remember, expecting that whatever else he could be called couldn't be that bad at least for her. Nanalee was also quite simple enough to remember, although since Ymir and her already knew eachother at least someone else would remember it. 'This is quite a group. I wonder if it's really that dangerous out here-' she thought as she glanced around, realising following shortly after the bird was another bird who was also a familiar sight to Ymir. The Wizard also seemed to have past connections with her, so perhaps people just became recognisable after a while. Both Ymir and the Wizard had the most memorable names, so she wouldn't ever have to face the awkwardness of not remembering who someone was. She sarcastically pondered to herself what weapon the Wizard used for he was surely a powerful knight at most.

Thinking of such pointless jokes that would only bring a smile to her face using her uncomical capabilities of good humour, it had came to mind that she had forgotten to try and seek out a weapon before she ended up arriving. Technically, she could just get her hands dirty and do things a very classic way yet she thought she was never going to learn or get practice with just said in mind. Trying to consider where she could stumble across something that could be used as a weapon in a swamp, her thoughts were interrupted by their source of leadership. "
Hooold that thought," she heard Ymir say, looking to grasp what was at attention only to realise the big puppy that had walked in. With enough time in the wilderness and having to learn to not panic or care about such regular appearing things which would kill you if given the chance, what would have probably been a scary beast didn't feel anything else but just the 'big puppy' that she taught herself to acknowledge all wolves as. That, and also being big meant it was still big but more comprehendable at least in comparison. "Nod twice if you're here for the expedition?", in which case made her flick her head back to look around at the other camps and surroundings. "Where are all these coming from? Clearly anyone should've seen the large beast walk in... " she mumbled softly as if it felt like more living things were just coming out of the woodwork at the last minute to join.

"
Now would be a good time to elaborate on any of your abilities you think may be helpful, if you haven't already." she listened to Ymir speaking about the details, hearing her give context on her useful capabilities. If others else had things important to say it would feel strange not to have any talent to point out. Trying to consider anything in mind, she sat in great hesitation for a while before determining being able to 'hit something hard' was probably not a helpful ability to mention. Her confident expression and stature just slowly degraded as she wondered if she had anything actually practical to offer in such situations, having thought adventuring would've been a lot more simple than such self evaluation about her non-existent qualities.
 
Alyssa EnrenAlyssa Enren.jpg
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: Sylph Sylph SilverFeathers SilverFeathers RatKing RatKing

Alyssa could tell that Ymir was studying her, scrutinizing her. That was fine with her, the more attention Ymir paid to her the easier it would be to naturally start a conversation somewhat later down the line. That said, she could tell Ymir wasn't exactly looking at her with fondness in her eyes, even as she put on a cheery grin and answered her question, the pleasant expression never quite reached her eyes. Well, even that was fine with Alyssa, as long as there wasn't any outright hostility between the two of them she didn't particularly care about being the best of friends. Though that would probably make getting her questions answered significantly easier.

She froze up for just a moment as the harpy wrapped Ymir into a massive hug right next to her. Not so much so because of the gesture itself, if anything it reminded her of the way her mother hugged her in private when she returned from small expeditions on her own or with other members of the crew, but because she recognized not only the name but also the appearance of the harpy.

Her surprise wouldn't end quite yet, as yet another member of the group from the rumors made his appearance. Ruvo Steelfeather, she had a hard time quite believing that she had run into three of the members from the group that had allegedly witnessed and caused the Lord of the Dead's defeat purely by chance. That said, taking in the three people before her, she still struggled to see how any of them would have survived an encounter with the infamous Wyck Allister. Alyssa wasn't confident she could take on any of the three in a fight and win, even with her magic being especially suited to combat. But defeating the Lord of the Dead? That, she couldn't see.

Then again, two members of the group were still missing. Leonard Hower, apparent heir of the Hower family. She didn't have a lot of trust in him being capable of such a feat either. Her intel suggested that Gustav Hower had been a force to be reckoned with, though his son apparently didn't take after him in that regard. That just left the final member of the group, the one she was most interested in. Eiru, her first name was all that she and Beck had managed to uncover. That, and the fact that this Eiru was definitely not human, as to what race she was, she hadn't the faintest idea. She might not know, but the three people in front of her might.

She snapped out of her train of thought as Ymir started explaining the mission, listening attentively. Finding three people from the group of the rumors had been a stroke of pure luck but it wasn't the main reason she was here. "Now would be a good time to elaborate on any of your abilities you think may be helpful, if you haven't already."

Alyssa nodded, she could give a little demonstration of sorts. She opened the palm of her hand, focusing her attention on its surface. The silver accessories, silver rods and Husk all turned liquid, swirling around her arm before gathering in her palm. Part of the liquid solidified, turning into the hilt of a sword, adorned with a smaller version of husk at the very end. The remaining liquid expanded, solidifying into a razor sharp sword's edge rapidly. She swung the weapon a few times before tossing it up in the air in front of her, letting it float there for a moment before turning her hand, turning the sword back into liquid and reforming her accessories and trusty rabbit companion. "I believe that should be an apt demonstration of my skillset." She said, addressing Ymir, Nanalee and Ruvo. She wasn't exactly ignoring the others present, she was simply not paying them much mind for now.
 

Nanalee Imphon | Of Spiritual Snow
A curious explorer with a love for battle, adventure and power | #97C5F7

Scrollbox ->
Nanalee mildly felt as if her spirit was leaving her body, but she could still more than spare the strength needed to greet another familiar face. "Ruvo! Glad to see you." She welcomed his presence with few words, but her tone was warm and genuine. It was honestly an unexpected surprise to see him here. Ymir she expected due to the posting on the expedition board, but to reunite with Ruvo as well? What a treat.

The beaming smile on her face had yet to fade when one of her fellow expedition members approached, a fascinating woman with pale blue skin and golden pupils. Although she would normally be intrigued by such dark sclera, what caught her attention most was the woman’s hair. Short, but fluffy-looking, it was coloured a lovely faded blue-purple hue, reminiscent of the deep-sea corals she fondly remembered in the sirens’ waters.

“Ah, Maika was it? Thank you. You have such pretty hair.” Nanalee complimented softly, taking the leaf from her blue hands and unwrapping it carefully. She faintly recalled the woman introducing herself with the words ‘chemist’ and ‘medicine’, hence she popped the amber-coloured cube in her mouth with little hesitation. Though subtle, a faint sweetness spread through her mouth, followed by a cool, soothing sensation in her throat. A sense of relief flooded over the harpy as she pat her chest, smiling at having regained a sense of control over her body.

“Yeah, we were part of the same guild before they were all abolished a year ago. The Waystone guild, if you’ve heard of it.” Nanalee chuckled as she explained, remembering full well that their little guild back then was a mere common one, considering it accepted a random traveler like herself so easily into their ranks back then. “The guild was known for its waystones, which are kinda like the warp stones you may have used to get here.” She pointed towards the central warpstone not too far from their campsite, though her words trailed off as she observed and welcomed the latest wolven addition to their group with a smile.

As Ymir addressed them, Nanalee focused up, observing and memorizing the last-seen locations of the three research teams. “No questions here, captain.” She couldn’t help but tease after the expedition’s rundown, mildly thinking to herself that Ymir made a good leader.

The white-haired elf aptly demonstrated some sort of metal manipulation ability, one that faintly reminded her of her own similar form of magic. Clapping lightly after her performance, she couldn’t help but ponder if they could coordinate somehow one day. If she could let one of her spirits enter a body made of silver… how awesome would that be?

Not wanting to get too ahead of herself, she dropped her fervent gaze towards the elf and gave a rough run-down of her abilities. “My flying skills should come in handy for scouting purposes. I also wield ice magic, so don’t be too alarmed if you see ice shards and the like forming around me. I also have a few friends that help me in battle, but you can meet them when the comes, my mana’s still feeling a little unsettled at the moment.” She explained in a light tone, slowly standing up and stretching in preparation to head out.

 
fR86gIF.png

Sally
Location: Expedition Campsite - Dark Marsh
Mentions: Sylph Sylph Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Sona Radar Sona Radar SleepyConley SleepyConley Key of Stars Key of Stars
One could not simply go on an expedition and not know what he and his fellow members can do, so after giving it a bit of thought and far more serious than his earlier approach, Sally consciously restrained himself from speaking any bear puns within his little speech.
"Well then. Im a herbalist by trade so me and Maika should have the healing aspect covered, and for the magic affinities it's earth and plant, although I tend to use plant magic more than the earth one. I also dabble a bit into golemancy albeit at my current stage I can only make pseudo-golems that are roughly my size if not smaller, since they still lack that spirit in them I have to manually control them so that might leave me exposed. I can even show you a smaller one right now if you want, but seeing as we probably need to get moving you will have to wait till we rest or a fight happens."
He thought a simple explanation was enough but at the same time something pulled his heartstrings telling him to show off, probably its one of the traits he got from Uncle Fergus back at Tir Na Nog.

After seeing Alyssa's display of magic prowess Sally couldn't contain it in himself not to show something of his, it seems that the little Fergus in his head has won, so he spoke once more.
"Well I can't not show a little bit off now, can I."
Now filled with a bit of a spark and an opportunity to show off Sally began to work with his magical prowess.
Firstly he prepared a bit, he took a few ironwood twigs from one of his pouches and threw them on the ground, and then he began to do what he knew best. At first, a small spike of stone appeared in the middle of the twigs and it slowly rose up finally standing as tall as he stood, then he focused his mana on the twigs making them grow and twist themselves around the stone making for a decent shaft for this makeshift spear, finally tempering it off at the end with a set of wooden barbs.

The entire process wasn't that long, he could even make it faster but it would risk the integrity of the weapon, after withdrawing his mana from it he came closer to the spear and with the last push of mana broke it from the ground. "It might not be the best spear, but if anyone wants it then they are more than willing to take it." Said Sally holding his new spear in one hand, willing to give it away for he truly wasn't made for close-quarters combat which probably everyone could see from a first glance.
 
The Wizard
Location Campfire Nine -> Swamp
Key of Stars Key of Stars Megilagor Megilagor

The Wizard found that he was in the presence of magi of many different kinds. Ice, Silver, Water Sound and Wind in addition to the healers in their party. Neither Ymir or Nanalee had worked with the Wizard in the field. Nor did he ever meet with Nanalee in the first place. The training under the Hower siblings hadn't allowed him the chance to display his powers. His time on LIGHTNING MOUNTAIN had afforded him no small amount of growth in skill but his power hadn't increased as much as he'd have liked. He also noticed something during Alyssa's demonstration of her powers. The Wizard wondered if it was best to comment on the magic of a complete stranger when they had shown their ability in confidence. However he knew that advice from those around you was never a bad thing for growth. So he approached the elf girl while the others were revealing their magic. "You have a delay in your magic circuits. Its a minute one but its noticeable. Between activation and circulation of mana. The Wizard can see a brief slowing in the flow of mana before it moves through your circuits to manipulate that silver" said The Wizard. Crybaby Cylia and Chief Zug'Zug had pointed out similar problems with his own circulation. His came from an improper mental trigger in addition to forcing his own nerves into makeshift circuits.

"You have a manipulation type magic but The Wizard can show you a different way of viewing it" uttered the mage while holding out his hand to demonstrate. Cold air began to surround The Wizards hand. His mental trigger was the feeling of being overwhelmed by the elements. Moving his magical energy through his circuits like water moving quickly through tubes. Unlike what he noticed with Alyssa, The Wizard got from point A to B just a few milliseconds faster. His end result was flash freezing a sword made of ice identical to the rabbit sword produced by the elf. Giving Alyssa a brief explanation so she could get it on her own terms. The Wizard just as easily dissolved his sword as he had made it. Turning to walk away because he felt that was all she really needed. He also caught sight of Sally's admirable spear construction. Taking the spear of behalf of everyone. He informed Sally that he should see the trees on the peaks of LIGHTNING MOUNTAIN. Those trees were capable of enduring lightning strikes. Making something out of those seeds might be right up his alley.
 
Ruvo Steelfeather
Location: Dark Marsh Campsite
Mentions: Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Key of Stars Key of Stars Sylph Sylph SilverFeathers SilverFeathers Megilagor Megilagor

"I see" Ruvo replied, listening to the Wizard explain that their current physique was the result of trials and tribulations they had gone through. "Well I can't say my time after the guild was as physically demanding as yours, but I have learned a thing or two" he said before tasting the Wizard's cooking he was offered. It was...better than he had expected from its appearance and aroma, but not exactly what he would call his favorite meal. Regardless, he thanked Wizard and finished his food thinking about what he was told as a child about not wasting food.

"Hooold that thought," was Ymir's response to his question as she seemingly looked at something past him. Turning around to see what was causing the careful uncertainty in the cartographer's tone of voice, the bard would flinch at the sight of large wolf sitting patiently at the edge of where the group had gathered. Luckily it seemed the wolf wasn't attracted to the smell of the food and did not mean them any harm, in fact it seemed it was either a highly trained wolf belonging to someone else in the campsite or just another interested individual for the expedition.

With names exchanged, it wasn't long until one of Ymir's maps was unfurled and their mission was explained. Apparently their objective would be to try to find groups of researchers that had gone missing. Doubting that the researchers simply got lost or stuck somewhere, Ruvo's initial concern regarding their sizable group faded away. There was likely a reason those researchers went missing and if it was because of a monster lurking around or some other danger then their numbers would prove to be a useful asset. But if it did end up being something mundane then they could at least cover more ground with how many of them there were. It was a win-win situation with how he saw it.

Next came brief demonstrations of what each of them were capable of as they readied to head on out. He already had a good idea of what Ymir, Nanalee, and Wizard were capable of, but the other expedition members each had their own specialties he would need to learn about if they were to work together easier. First up was Alyssa who seemed to have control over silver, able to manipulate it into a fluid like state to form objects like a blade before making it solid again. Though their explanation felt oddly directed rather than like they were speaking to everyone. Perhaps it was the way they projected their voice or where they were focusing their gaze he wasn't sure. Deciding to not think too much on it, Ruvo turned his attention to the next demonstration when Wizard approached Alyssa with comments about the nature of magic and mana.

Sally was up next and they explained their earth and plant magical affinities as well their dabbling into the craft of golemancy. However, their golemancy was more like puppeteering from the sound of it. Then to not be outdone in the formation of weapons they would in a sense grow a spear from the ground with a combination of their magic and materials they had on hand. Ruvo wondered if they could make other tools or even shelter with their magic, but that would perhaps be better served to be answered later during their search.

"I suppose I will go next" he said adjusting the instrument slung on his side. "While I can't make weapons with my music affinity I can instead make our movement through the marsh silent if we suspect danger or make our voices louder if we need to call out for the missing researchers. Aside from that I too have a wind affinity, though I suspect Ymir will have that covered better than I would" he explained before overhearing a comment about lightning proof trees in a side conversation. He'd have to ask about that later, in the meantime it was best to hear what the next member had to offer for the search.
 
Maika
Location: Dark marsh expedition campsite

The merfolk didn't seems to register Nanalee's compliment about the hair, at least at first glance, but the few strands of hair that were jutting out in the middle of her haid wobbled up and down briefly. She listened to Nanalee's explanation and nodded at it.

"Never know about Waystone, but I do know about the abolishment of guilds. That was unfortunate really." She came into the mainland during that time. It was a shame, if those common guilds still standing she might actually fits there.

Ymir then elaborate more about their mission and the objectives. Apparently three groups of scientist had gone missng and their task was to find them. She thought proritizing the newly lost was a smart move since they had the biggest chance of surviving. As the group started introducing their abilities, Maika used the opportunity to get a closer look at the map. It didn't seems like they strayed too far. She also glanced at everyone showing their magic and took mental notes on who can do what.

"I have already told my capabilities," Maika chimed, following the others she decided to demonstrate her affinity too and extended her hand with her palm facing upward. A swirl of clear blue water slowly appeared on her palm, the swirl grew for a few second until it formed a blue creature the size of a small melon. The creature had no eye, no mouth, no limb. It was almost no different than a large blob of water but the way it moved around on her hand gave it the impression of an animal trying to look around their environment.

"If we are talking about magic though, I can only conjure water and summon slime so don't rely on it." She concluded her part with a nod, then put the slime on top of her head and let it settle comfortably there. Her magic was definitely very simple, yet those spells and the fact that she had tendrils instead of fish tail as legs were the reason of why a merfolk like her was able to venture deep into the mainland. Merfolk needs constant hydration and had a much higher risk of getting heat stroke so a reliable way to cool their own body would be very valuable.

"Oh, yeah." She looked back at Ymir. "What are the researchers doing here? We can track them better if we know what they're trying to do."

SilverFeathers SilverFeathers Sylph Sylph RatKing RatKing Gaius Danius Griinia Gaius Danius Griinia Key of Stars Key of Stars Megilagor Megilagor Sona Radar Sona Radar SleepyConley SleepyConley Vanguard Vanguard
 
Chiharhu
Chiharu for the most part had stumbled around the encampment trying to avoid the mud and sludge of the marsh, not sure of where to go. Her attention was taken by a massive creature that appeared to be some type of canine. Chiharhu followed behind it wondering if it was a person or just someone's pet and if they were someone's pet, could she get one,"With a nice bath and some grooming, it would make such a cute pupper and friend, hehe!" She giggled to herself as the creature approached a campfire with a group. They were organizing to set out on an expedition but it seemed that Chiharu had missed the woman's name. From Chiharu's perspective the other woman was in charge or at least organizing everything and obviously had experience she questioned everyone's abilities immediately, rather than finding out in the field.

As the crew went about displaying their respective abilities, Chiharu watched them all with gleeful focus. The elf's woman magic was interesting to Chiharu as she thought it would be useful to get a customized weapon or accessory, but also with that ability, the woman would be a danger wherever she went, especially in a town or major city. As the elf further demonstrated her ability Chiharu took note of her focus being on the leader, the Harpy, and the Kenku. For a second, she wondered why but brushed it off for later. The Harpy just gave a brief explanation and then the Beastkin constructed a spear from earth and twigs. Chiharhu was going to ask for the spear, but before she could another human grabbed it before she could. Her sadness was apparent, although it was quickly replaced with curiosity as she wondered who The Wizard was as the man who took the spear kept speaking about. Chiharu couldn't really tell but he seemed to be an instructor or at least he was giving out tips and instructions. Next was the Kenku who had an air affinity and could manipulate sound. Then what Chiharu assumed was a Merfolk explained that she could conjure water and slime, which Chiharu thought was extremely weird but unique.

Chiharu decided to go next by stepping into her socialite persona. Brandishing a bright smile, Chiharul literally hopped into the light of the campfire, "Hello Hello! My name is Chiharu and I can- I can- I can't cook!" The look on the young woman's face stayed, but her head tilt to the side as she was obviously just as confused as the others probably were, "I forgot what I was saying!" She took a moment to reassess her thoughts and realized a gasp came flooding back to her. Chiharu took a step to redo her entrance with the same bright smile, "Hello hello, my name is Chiharu of the Konoe family, "Bowing she continued, "My affinity is Dark and Body, I can store things within my shadow, phase through objects, or create simple constructs!" Chiharu reached into her sleeve, brandishing her sword, and placed it back, then made a short chain from the shadows inside her sleeve. Even after botching her introduction, she gleamed with a bright demeanor that even matched her appearance, although her prim and proper clothing could easily be bought by any other noble as well.
 
 Vyilkihild
4

2d230df6-8347-4c86-998a-897160a2ea6e.jpg
Vyilki continued sitting with her hands in her lap, watching the others present give small demonstrations to their own capabilities. Even those who visibly looked like they wouldn't opt into wielding a weapon or standing at the frontline in a dangerous scenario all had their own convenience of allowing themselves to a weapon that would last them. How simple it must have been for others to not specifically care where she were at a standstill. Such weapons felt like they would be extremely impractical to even useless at least in her hands. Such a sword conjured into shape by Alyssa's own power could prove practical, but would only feel like it was reliable for the elf who formed it. The spear's quality was questionable since it was a creation of wood, which didn't hold high expectations for her, but the main problem was the weapon itself. Spears were practical for keeping an enemy at safe distance, but that was the only benefit she saw which felt very unfitting. The Wizard's ice blade was another regular sword, but she felt the weapons too small and unfitting for herself. That, and she was from the north. She had crushed more than ice on a regular, so she decided not to trust a weapon that could possibly melt with ease.

Staring down at the marsh floor as she idly poked to see the density of the ground, she overheard discussion about trees that could resist lightning strikes. With the eventual display of Maiko's own power as well as Chiharu also showing up to contribute her existence to the already large group, both a slight disappointment as well as a hint of annoyance over the moment she was finding her in formed in her head. Was she supposed to just gloss over a misfired strike that she was weaker than a tree? She sighed and ignored it, it wasn't like she should expect people to understand the power like her if they couldn't even control it to begin with. Her annoyance was also stemming from the demonstration of people's magic capabilities with no real acknowledgement or care to doing so. Vyilkihild had noticed and suspected so before her arrival to the marsh, but other species did carry their same ideals over the matter. To her it felt disrespectful to the elements, but perhaps everyone else saw it very differently. She held her people's belief that to wield such power, which in demonstration before her could create weapons of war or even life itself, should be respected immensely and the forces thanked to be blessed with such capabilities. It was why the Hildenworos were strong on their own merit as to not rely on and abuse their powers gained in birthright. Chiharu's dark affinity was a rare sight at least for her own self's origins.

Seeing as the wheel of talent display was rotating and it would likely be soon it would reach a stop without her saying anything, she might as well have added something. "For those who weren't present before, you can call me Vyilki or whatever you prefer," Vyilkihild began as she glanced at her empty hand in which she stood up so her full height would be apparent. "The forces and elements have blessed me with the force of Body, and the element of Lightning. With this I don't have any particular tricks to impress, but to only use my physically atoned to strength self and the weapons I use as a vessel for my potential. My only greatest talent is being a shield for those who need one, and a battering ram for those who can't push forward" she continued as she showed her extended right arm, where sparks of lightning jumped and moved from her horns like two pylons down the limb to the fingertips. "I will strike as the raging storm does, for my gifts teach me to master myself and to channel my power as my own flesh and blood" she commented as she forced her channelling power into her opened palm. Where there would be a weapon to receive it, or a closed fist so the power looped into itself for her own strike of the fist, a large warhammer with a long handle had appeared in her hand.

She was just about 7'3, which was short for her people at her age but she still told herself there was a chance she had room for growth. At least leaving home meant she didn't need to feel like the short one anymore. The warhammer was considerably long in length with a large head so the weapon's size could match the wielder in question, although it being a construct completely of her lightning meant that it would dissipate given a few seconds. The pain of her blessing, it would seem. She had yet to find a weapon which truly captivated her and felt just right in order to make it worthwhile carrying and dedicating herself to it wherever she went. So, she usually relied on temporary finds, creations and primarily her body as a weapon. If such a person decided to magically charge their shoulder and shoulder-shove against a target, it would probably be strong enough to be considered a weapon. "This is my only use and contribution, so I hope it will not be a waste". She rather wanted to prove useful despite not having a useful quality or trait like anyone else, which she felt would prove rather difficult. She wanted to maintain her self respect and pride before such group work with outsiders broke it on her first adventure.

Location: Campfire
Interactions: In general.
 

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top