Fantasy Well of Wishes | Main IC | [Closed]

[Lost Echo]

At least her group listened to the verbal threat, fleeing with haste. Kuma was vaguely surprised they were alive. She didn’t trust that the female would not simply follow. Uncaring of the Outsiders’ hangups, she absorbed her hair, raising her eyes to watch from the back of her head. Survival was optimal.

A part of her wanted to leave the ‘daughter.’ What use was someone in a pack if they merely whimpered? She was no pup. Still, the information she possibly had was likely vital. Even if she was not part of the cause of their crisis, her knowledge of the Inquisition, something she had not looked deeply enough into, was worth it.

Kuma took a moment to shoot another blast of ice to her chest, allowing her body to quickly shift. Much of what had been her torso spread to her arms and legs, first bulging the linen pants before condensing. The bands on her arms expanded with ease. With a quick spurt, she lifted the blond female into her arms, carrying her. While Kiel seemed to be managing on his own, she doubted the girl could walk.

She paused when Kiel did, taking the moment to drape the girl over her shoulder, broadening it to maintain the weight. As he began again, she gestured to her burden. “No idea, but we’ll be able to get information through her.” Kuma did not enjoy the pain of others, but was practical. They needed to know.

Perhaps it had merely been too long since she had fought with another, but she felt connected to these two. As if she could trust them, as if she had to support them. She frowned at their injuries, frustration fueling her. She knew enough alchemy to ease the strains of Anravo, but, “Your bodies are strange,” after a moment she added, “to me. There was a group that went in search of medical supplies. It seemed there was skill amongst them.”

Him not joining them bothered something in Kuma. Like it would be a loss. Her eyes glanced toward the elf. Was she so desperate for a pack that these had started to feel as one? One near death experience should not be enough.

Then he spoke of the dead, the cannon fodder. In regret, in sorrow. 'Something [Kuma] had learned as a young guard drifted up from memory. If you have to look along the shaft of an arrow from the wrong end, if a man has you entirely at his mercy, then hope like hell that man is an evil man. Because the evil like power, power over people, and they want to see you in fear. They want you to know you're going to die. So they'll talk. They'll gloat. They'll watch you squirm. They'll put off the moment of murder like another man will put off a good cigar. So hope like hell your captor is an evil man. A good man will kill you with hardly a word.'¹

This man actually apologized to their attackers. The contrast between the woman in red and him was stark. If he felt one needed to die, would he just do it? Would he hesitate? Kuma refocused on the woman, “She was incredibly trained. Most Tanaka would have struggled against her. But that orb. That was power on par with the Sakra.” She reached out to Nezumi, who had returned to the sewers to avoid the destruction from the child in red and it’s puppets. ((Rats don’t understand gender of humanoids.)) Still her hands held the strange sticks, not an orb. “With that amount of power, and that lack of,” sanity, “control...Would this Inquisition stop even if we did not go?” Would the information the burden would provide doom them more? Kuma was aware there were some things you accepted as is.

1. Men at Arms Terry Pratchett

Jet Sarahspn Anne Boolean ​

 

[Sarahspn]

Gwendolyn gripped Yo's hand, making sure they stayed together as they ran. She gave her a smile and looked forward, following after Leóne. She focused on running and listened as he spoke of escaping in disguise. Looking his way, a laugh escaped her lips when she saw the rouge holding up a small tunic that was more pink than salmon. "So hot. You should wear it on our next date." She teased. She still had a good amount of stamina from her college years so she wasn't out of breath quite yet.

Once they had distanced themselves from the enemy, she let go of Yo's hand and slowed down a bit. She went through the few laundry lines that hung in the alley and grabbed two outfits. Quickly glancing over she saw that Yo had already put on her disguise. It didn't exactly fit the best, but it did the job. As she ran, she held up the clothes she swiped. For her, a rather large purple tunic and brown pants that were too short for her legs. She frowned at the lack of taste the people of this port town. She needed to teach these people basic fashion sense one day.

She haphazardly threw the clothes on, attempting to avoid tripping over the rocks along the ground. She caught up with Leóne and handed him the outfit she grabbed. Lucky for him, his outfit matched. As she handed him the full black outfit she gave him a smile. "Only the best for my darling." She said. They had come out of the alley and into a sea of people. It was busy which made it perfect for them to blend in. She looked down at herself and realized how horrible she looked and frowned. At least no one in this town knew who she was or her reputation would be ruined.

"I'm not that familiar with this town but I think we're still a good bit away from the gate. Do you think the other groups got ambushed as well?" She answered Yo, her brow furrowing. Questions of the Inquisitions intentions swarmed through her head but she pushed them away, focusing on escaping to the gate. She wanted to avenge herself and prove that she wasn't a failure but that would have to wait until another day.

Jet Taigakitt Anne Boolean

 

[Jet]

​

Gwen had done well. Her selection destroyed Leone's salmon counterpart, one he tossed backwards before wrapping dark robes around brown leather. Looking out from below his new midnight hood, he nodded Gwen's way and smiled "You spoil me! I'll have to make it up to you tonight!", and as Leone spoke he passed between crowds with the others. Moving along storefront rows he caught reflections too, and the rogue wondered who originally owned his robes. He could only conclude must be a sorcerer! Because who else enjoys looking sketchy?

Whoever they were, thank god they loved creeper clothing because moments later the street was swarmed! Inquisition men dashed around grabbing anyone who matched descriptions. Several random locals were subdued and screamed about innocence, before confused troops released them when mistakes were realized. Meanwhile the escapees moved onward without anyone tracking them down. Assuming nothing changed they would make eastern gates..... But as the western woman asked, how far was that exactly?

Leone had some knowledge about the area, but not enough to estimate travel times and so explained "I'm not sure how far we are from the gate. We're in the center and It's not a huge place so maybe a mile? Don't quote me though, I haven't been here in years!" and looking between both women he subdued laughter, noticing their pants problem. When everything calmed they could joke about disguises over drinks, but clowning around was too casual when troops hunted their heads. Instead he stayed serious and continued walking east over worn cobblestones, passing by nervous groups of muttering merchants, who worriedly watched angry troops barge through crowds and topple stalls.

Sarahspn Taigakitt

 

[Jet]

Lucian Gates


​

Whaleshell gates were absurd, defense was an afterthought here where peace was common. Lucien guessed the entrance stretched a leviathan twenty meters from post to post, enough space for hundreds to move through at once, towing produce carts and horse drawn wagons. But that was inane noise. Lucien was focused on architecture, enamored by massive walls that rose above as stone mountains, making thatch buildings seem minuscule. The local masonry was interesting when close examined, and Lucien adored the aesthetic functionality found in southern cities.

If only those around him were as entertaining.

They were horrible company, nothing more than violent beasts. One was a cat creature too which was utterly revolting to be around, but the others weren't any better. Two were seafaring ruffians who showed inappropriate skin, and the other was a murderous northern warrior from the uncouth marsh gates. Lucien hated them from the moment they met in Stowfort.

"Give them time to warm up" Richard would've said — how preposterous! Lucien brimmed with hatred for unknown reasons. Some people were born angry without emotional range, and the educator was certainly that. His hatred wasn't unique for the mission members around him either. Almost every colleague would bother him in one way or another... other than Richard of course. He was the only man who cut through the exterior, for reasons Lucien couldn't explain.

With everyone else he would keep distance, evidenced by the dozen paces between him and the other mission members, who he completely ignored when he opined over architecture. But soon Lucien became restless, and checked his expensive mechanical watch. Reading jeweled hands his brow furrowed, thinking these idiots are truant on our opening day, what a surprise! Already upset he tensed his jaw with neurotic worry, before speaking at the others.

"Stop loitering about will you! Someone check our supplies and ensure everything's in order! A street urchin may have ransacked our cart when we came through the gate! These cities are always disgusting, overflowing with unbelievable crime and poverty!"

Anne Boolean Sarahspn Taigakitt

OOC

Your new characters already have horses, and have traveled together for over a week. And you don't need to write an in depth cart check XD, just something he would say.

 

[BriiAngelic]

• Roland Marek || Savanna Elven Street Kid

• 
  
  
  
  Tags:
  Richard ( Jet ) Lyleve ( Aelia Aeldyne )
  Lorrin ( Pik ) Obsidian ( Anne Boolean )
  Young Master Mage ( Taigakitt )
  

  ~ Running from The Cafe ~
  Shoot Me Down || Roland's CS File
  
  His protections were minimal but he was hoping that they’d forget him quickly thanks to his age. Besides, when it came down to it they all seemed to be better fighters than he was minus maybe the old man Richard. He wasn’t in luck though despite the fact that the red-haired woman seemed to just want to invite trouble he was still the target of the girl’s ire.
  
  Obsidian at least seemed to aim to find out the weak points of the group but it seemed that brute force would be how they got through this as more arrows flew and the elder fighters went all in. What’s worse is rather than the puppets, at least that’s what the girl was shouting about, real guards charged for him.
  
  He withdrew more and more as the danger increased. Why. Why were they so intent on killing them? Just what had they found on them? An Explosion rocked from the impact of an arrow. The attacks moved from aiming to kill to aiming to disable and that terrified him. He wasn’t naive enough to assume that this was a better outcome. Just meant they had something worse planned for him.
  
  He slashed again and again attempting to get past the soldiers' armor. He could use his darts, if worse came to worse he might have to. The question was did he have enough to knock out this many guards. As the furniture went flying due to a well-placed wind spell he dived down and scurried out of the path of the soldiers.
  
  He was close to Richard and let a kick go to the back of his knees as the fire passed over the two nearly burning them. As it stood he turned around to find the cafe behind was now on fire. Well, they had already destroyed the poor places furniture. He would try to help put it out but he didn’t quite have a chance with the soldiers attempting to kill them.
  
  He grabbed Richard and started to pull him. Lorrin was right; they needed to split up. He watched as the customers inside began to scream and run out. He waited for an opening and joined in with a shout.
  
  “Lyleve! This way! Scatter! SORRY MISS V PUT IT ON MY TAB OKAY.”
  
  He added a shout back to the owner of the cafe, he genuinely felt bad. Helena had really liked this cafe. With a tug at Richard, he started running through the crowd hoping the old man would get the hint and stay beside him.
  
  

 

[Sarahspn]

​

"Roseyyy my butt hurts." Jane groaned, sitting on her horse. Rose rolled her eyes and glanced over at her sister. "Stop complaining. We're almost there." She said, looking back forward. The sisters have been traveling on land for a week now, much to their despise. When they were told they had to travel by horse, the sisters rejected. Sea travel would've been faster but the grumpy old dude declined their idea. "I still don't understand why Stone got to ride in the cart," Jane muttered, crossing her arms. "He's a cat person thing. He said he doesn't like to ride other animals. You wouldn't ride another human, would you? Actually, I take that back, you would." Rose said, frowning a little.

After a few minutes of riding, the giant walls of Whaleshell Port came into view. The sisters have visited the port town numerous times before but each time the view was breathtaking. Although the view is better from the water, it was still nice from the land. They went through the large gate and their small caravan came to a stop. "So we came all this way to meet up with maybe five other people? We could've met halfway." Jane complained, getting off her horse. "Hopefully it's more than that. Even so, I hope they have more skills than our little bunch." Rose said, surveying the group they were with. They had Stone who nobody knew anything about except they were a catfolk. Next was Amalia who hasn't shown their face yet nor have they spoken much, if at all. Then there was Lucian, who the sisters did not like at all. Lastly, Rose and her sister who were just pirates looking for another adventure.

"Hey, maybe we can ditch the old guy when the others get here," Rose whispered to Jane after she got off her horse. Jane laughed a little and nodded in agreement before sitting on the ground. She sighed at the feeling of a solid surface to sit on. Sunny, her parrot, flew off the horses back and landed on her head. "Hey Sunny. Did you have a good nap?" Jane asked, getting a squawk in response. "Oh! Rose do you think there are cute guys joining us? Its been a week since I've seen any. And that's like an eternity to me." She pouted, resting her head in her hand. Rose rolled her eyes, choosing not to respond to her boy crazy sister.

Minutes passed with no sign of the other group. Rose was watching Lucian and saw that he was getting restless, checking his watch often. He turned towards their group and their eyes met, causing her to frown. He barked orders at them and she could tell he was upset but reluctantly listened. Rose walked towards the cart and motioned for her sister to follow. She heard a small groan come from the younger sibling but soon felt her presence at her heels. They rounded the cart and came to the back. Everything was untouched and Rose rolled her eyes. She lifted herself up and sat on the edge of the cart. Jane did the same and Sunny moved to sit in her lap. "Do you think the well actually exists or is this just a plan to lead us all into the wilderness to kill us or feed us to the monsters?" Jane asked, resting her head on Rose's shoulder. "Who knows. We just have to stay together, no matter what." Rose said, looking down at her sister. Rose gave Sunny's head a scratch and they continued to wait for the second group, oblivious to what was happening in the western half of the port town.

Jet Anne Boolean Taigakitt

 

[Taigakitt]

The Champion Lodge Group
Involved: Pik Anne Boolean BriiAngelic Jet Aelia Aeldyne ​

The girl shot her masked face in the direction of the stone elf Obsidian after she shot her fireball, unaware that her target had missed due to Roland's actions. "PLAY!?" The words the other spoke only served to anger her further. This wasn't play. Though her last sentence played at her, and thought maybe that would be her moment, "I'll be gentle when you give up. If you give up, I won't kill you!"

She was distracted by the stone elf, that she missed what Lorrin had said. Though, one of her elite guards saw that arrow coming, and prostrated himself in front of her, taking the hit. She quickly whipped around, seeing the arrow, dripping blood, in her face. Her nose scrunched up as she caught her elite, setting him down gently next to her, being careful to control the fire around him as well. She cursed to herself.

Shouts of multiple people brought her back to reality as she seemed to look in the direction of the cafe. She shouted for her underlings, "Chase them!" but she became intent on putting the fire out at the cafe, "NO! The sweets!"

She hopped off the roof, helping people get out as she went to put the fire out.

The people that would chase after the ones fleeing were alert people this time, as she only had a few of the drooping-headed ones left, she kept them close to her.

 

[Taigakitt]

Yo Saiwa​

At Gwendolyn's words, Yo's worry became more ingrained onto her features, "I sure hope not, but it's likely. I think the gate is a good bet to see if we need to go and find anyone."

Yo's heart raced as they filtered through the pack of people, not looking back. Couldn't look back. She had heard some shrieks behind her though, which worried her. She wondered if those guards were doing anything to those poor people. She was horrified thinking about it. Before her mind could go out of control with unlikely scenarios, Leóne had spoken up.

Feeling a little more hopeful that Leóne felt they weren't far off, she sighed softly. A mile wasn't too bad. They just had to keep this up the whole way. She rose an eyebrow at his facial expression though, wondering what he seemed to be suppressing.

Yo had to keep adjusting the pants she put on, mostly because she wanted to make sure they wouldn't fall off. Not that it would cause an embarrassing scene, what with what she wore normally, but she didn't want to be tripping over herself.

Mentions: Sarahspn Jet ​

 

[Anne Boolean]

Obsidian​

Obsidian's gentle words only seemed to anger the little girl. She wasn't surprised though, as usually the tantrums of a child got worse before the child was quelled. She did seem to calm down a bit, although her threat was unwavering. It had gone down from certain death to what Obsidian presumed was imprisonment though, so at least there was some progress.

Sadly, when the arrow came flying at the girl it seemed the progress she was making fell flat. For better or for worse, one of the soldiers stepped in front of the blonde before she was hurt, although the price was his own life. It was only now that she saw the chaos caused by her own teammates, and heard the screams of the people leaving the burning cafe. Her head turned to face the archer, and instead of trying to calm the child down she felt she should have been lecturing and punishing the adult who caused all this.

It seemed the little girl did indeed have a gentle and caring side, which showed as she laid the man who had taken the arrow for her gently to rest in front of her. Her own team had decided to take the moment to escape, which led the girl to instruct her soldiers to give them chase while she helped the patrons of the burning cafe escape. The self-proclaimed golem looked towards the burning cafe, then to her teammates, and then to the guards who were starting to surround her. Her initial urge was to help the the people escape and put out the fire. She felt it aligned better with what her purpose of serving people. But she had also committed to helping out Clive on his search, and couldn't risk holding them back from beginning their expedition by arriving late or by not arriving at all. Besides, the girl's seemed powerful enough to handle things, or at least that's what the woman told herself.

"I'm sorry for the trouble we've caused," she said to the girl. "Thank you for helping out the people that were put in harm's way. I hope you continue to be good. I know you can do it." With that, she high-tailed it after her companions.

Although they were a small ways away she was able to catch up. When they were a safe enough distance away she slowed down to a walk, and made her way next to the archer. "You did a terrible thing," she said, keeping pace with him for a moment before moving forward to walk with the others.

Taigakitt Aelia Aeldyne Pik BriiAngelic Jet

 

[Taigakitt]

Stone ???​

While Stowfort was an interesting city, Stone was still feeling eager to get moving. If only it was in better company. Lucian was an asshole, to put it simply. Stone did his best to ignore him. There was no need to push buttons, especially to their... patron. The other three weren't terrible though. He didn't mind them.

Stone absolutely refuses to get on horses' backs. It just seems... awkward. Luckily, they had needed a wagon anyway for the supplies they picked up before heading out. And since the wagon needed pulled with horsepower, Stone had taken the seat on the wagon, taking hold of the reigns instead. This was much more comfortable, in many ways.

Amalia was pretty quiet. Jane did pretty much all of the talking and didn't seem to push for anything about his past. In fact, she was quite eager to let him in on their life story out on the ocean. Of course, he had listened openly and added in his own comments to contribute to the conversation when he could.

Their trip took a week. The time it took didn't bother Stone, as he was accustomed to traveling over land. The eastern gates of Whaleshale Port was claimed to be their meeting place, so that is where they had stopped. Though, it seemed they were well past the time they were supposed to meet, which made Stone think that this Clive Bean guy was too ashamed to meet them with his lack of a party.

He turned his sharp, green gaze over to Lucian, who yelled at them for loitering. Black ears flickered back as he pulled his whiskers forward. Doing his best to direct his language in a way that didn't put blame on Lucian, he spoke gently, "Good Lucian Sir, it may be best not to underestimate those hired for this mission. No one ransacked the cart. Though, to satisfy the insecurities being felt, I will go check with the girls." His tail flicked on the seat next to him as he stood up, hoping lightly off the wagon. Turning on his heel, he walked to the back of the wagon, after the girls.

To satisfy Lucian's possible scrutinizing gaze, he actually climbed into the back after the sisters settled themselves at the edge and pawed around their items. Though, he didn't actually note what they had, as it was more or less for show. He new better than to attempt talking to the sisters when they seemed to be having one of those sibling bonding moments. It would be rude.

Mentions: Sarahspn Jet Anne Boolean ​

 

[Anne Boolean]

Amalia Winters​

Amalia felt bad for keeping her armor on as she sat atop the horse. It would definitely add unnecessary extra weight on the poor creature. Her excuse was so that she would be ready in an ambush, but in all honesty it was because she was afraid to reveal her appearance to the others. It was true she introduced herself as Amalia, and no one seemed to question how she identified, but she couldn't quash the possibility of the others having suspicions, and therefore judgments. In her opinion she wasn't all that hard to clock, and although she tried to speak in a higher pitched voice she felt as if it just sounded like a poor attempt to mock a woman.

The leader of the group, the man who recruited them, she feared opening up to the most. Lucian was grouchy beyond all belief, and seemed to have a negative attitude towards anything that moved. She dreaded to imagine the words he would have in store for her, or worse, whether he would boot her from the expedition or not.

The two sisters seemed nice enough. One was more free-willed while the other had a more level-headed approach to life. Amalia couldn't help but feel envy towards them. Every time she heard them talk about their past, and living on the sea, she felt a yearning to have been able to have that kind of life. When around the two she often wondered, if she had indeed been born a woman, who she would have turned out more like: Rose or Jane? She imagined she would be as carefree as Jane, although if the part of her past that included military training stayed the same she assumed she would be more serious, like Rose.

Finally, sitting in the cart was Stone. Feeling himself too much like them the feline had opted to sit in the cart instead of on a horse. Amalia personally felt it would have been less strain for any of the horses if she had taken the seat in the cart, but figured it was okay because the horse would still be dealing with the extra weight, just in a different way. It would have been the same case if she had taken off her armor and put it in the cart, or at least that's what she told herself.

Although it had been awhile, upon arriving at Whaleshell Port Amalia felt a sense of familiarity. She had been through the port city a few times on missions during her time in the military, and as expected, a city where sailors mingled with landlubbers always proved to be pretty lively. They wouldn't be going into the city this time though, but rather just rendezvousing with others from the expedition just inside the eastern gate.

As soon as they stopped the woman quickly dismounted in order to give her poor horse a break. Lucian had a suspicion of theft from their supplies and ordered them to check on them. It seemed the others weren't too thrilled with his instructions or his tone, but at least went to the back of the cart in order to look like they were heeding them. Amalia had heard worse from her commanding officers and was able to shrug his attitude off, although she too joined the other three. The two sisters just seemed to be talking among themselves, Stone, not unlike a cat with a ball of yarn, was just shifting a few items between his paws, and no one was actually checking to see if their supplies had made it safe and sound. Amalia herself had to admit it seemed unlikely anything was taken, as Whaleshell Port was relatively safe, but her training had taught her to always double check if given a change.

"Excuse me," she said in her pitched-up voice, and stepped around the sisters. She dared not climb onto the cart along with Stone though, lest all the weight cause it to collapse. Instead she took stock simply from the sides, making sure the numbers of each item they had matched how many they had when they started a week ago.

Taigakitt Jet Sarahspn

 

[Sarahspn]

Gwendolyn smiled at Leóne's words of spoiling him and laughed a little. “Can't wait,” she said, sending him a wink. She heard the heavy footsteps of the Inquisition guards enter the main road. Chancing a glance back, she witnessed the guards harassing locals. Turning back to the front, she kept her composure.

“They’re going to catch up to us at this rate. We should pick up our pace a little,” she said, adjusting the large tunic to make sure it covered her clothes. She glanced over at Yo, noticing how nervous the woman was. Gwen was nervous but needed to stay calm. Hearing the heavy footsteps close in on them, she gripped the staff in her hand. She hit the end of her staff on the ground, causing shingles to fall off a roof behind the guards. Not looking back, she heard the heavy footsteps fade. She breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed just a little.

“Should we check on the others?” She asked, looking up at the sky to see smoke coming from the north area of the town. “Most importantly, we should find Liam soon.” She said, biting her lip in worry.

Jet Taigakitt

 

[Pik]

Lorrin Yumi

Tags: Taigakitt Jet Anne Boolean BriiAngelic Aelia Aeldyne

Lorrin didn't even see what happened as far as he knew the plan was a success nothing went wrong no one was killed. He was on his way to catching up with the others when obsidian ran up next to just long enough to say he's a horrible person. Witch took him by surprise because as far as he knows he just gave them the chance they needed to escape. All he did was destroy a few things of public property which sure is a bit bad but it was a life or death situation. Maybe it was the shooting a child thing admittedly that is a very horrible thing to do but there is no way that arrow would hit her, the kid has already show to reflect it with ease. "What did I do? We needed to get away was what I did so horrible to you?" The question would not even be answered as obsidian would already run ahead of him to catch up with the others. "I bit to fast for someone made of stone." he shakes his head in disbelief these are questions that can be asked later they needed to get out of here first.

A few moments later he could hear the sound of the girl's men chasing after them, well that didn't take long. "We're being followed! Anything you can do to slow them down do it now!" he yelled back towards the others and draws his bow again once again loading three arrows into his bow clearly without there leader they are sitting ducks with his bow. But he isn't a killer and these men are only following orders without question killing, in this case, would actually make them the criminals they are being claimed to be. So let's just make sure they cant continue the chase, his bow would let off the sparks letting him know it was ready and then shots the arrows each of them landing in the feet of three closes to him. As long as they get a proper healer they will be back on their feet in three months but for now, they are out of there hair.​

 

[Arcanist]

Pozou Artith
Mentions: ??? ( BriiAngelic ), @OrWangatan (Pelea) | Interactions: The Regal Rper (Vaal), Aelia Aeldyne (Salazar), BriiAngelic (Helena)​

This was madness. Pozou felt his wings suddenly quiver in growing fear - or perhaps was it the sudden ache that wracked them? - his heart beating against his feather clad chest. Suggestions of returning to the Lodge had cropped up, but Pozou preferred to flee the nest entirely. One too many memories of chaotic scenes in that quiet port town, where the pirates had first picked him up, cropped up when he compared it to this situation. Salazar's energy, the slithering limbs of tentacles trying to knock that mage's orb out of its hand, only confirmed how real this whole situation was.

There was no way Pozou would fare well in a fight against a mage, especially one of this callibre and degree. He was no fighter, that had already been established. He had to fly, find Pelea, and get to the next meeting spot where they could make their escape. Hell, maybe they could just abandon this quest altogether. They didn't even have to go back to the crew! But leaving these people on their own, to fend for themselves? It gave Quetzolas a bad name. But yet...

Damn it. Why did his luck have to be so cursed?!

The taunts of the mage sounded, his voice spiced with the promises of false leniances, perhaps an easier sentence? Though, the idea of him 'playing with them' hadn't put Pozou any more at ease. He turned to the others, and though he felt cowardice at doing so, murmured, "I'm no fighter, and I don't want to stick around to see what this guy does to us," he explained, wringing his hands together nervously. "I'm going to make my way to the meeting spot, see if I can find my sister, and from there, we'll plan an escape out of this city. You're all welcome to join me in fleeing, but scattering would be best if you all will join me."

 

[The Regal Rper]

Vaaltari of Jata​

With the blast of wind and the push of smoke, Vaaltari wasted no time in shifting back into his original, true size. Pozou was right, and Vaaltari himself had no intention of dueling this assassin. A trap had been set, and he had no intention of falling into it. The second the explosion went off, Vaaltari rushed in the direction of a nearby alley as he ran past Salazar and in one quick motion, he grabbed the blind one by his collar with a single lift and tucked the human under his arm as he crossed the distance into the alleys.

Three fuzz balls burnt on the ground where Salaz and the others had been standing and then they flashed a brilliant light, exploding- releasing a rushing blanket of smoke that covered the group's escape.

"Scattering is a fool's choice." The Kraugan stated, his tail curling, arm extending, releasing both Pozou and Helena, as well as letting go of Salazar in front of him. "We scatter, and they will pick us off. You both may have someone you desire to meet, but if we were attacked then I have no doubt that the others in our quest were attacked as well. There is more than just this group, we have been followed for a while now and I suspect there are others in our surrounding area that will attempt to block us off. Our only solution is to evade them by going below or under their noses. I would not suggest the latter, so we will have to compromise, brace yourselves." Before they could respond- Vaaltari bear hugged everyone. Crushing them to his body like children- and then with crouch, he launched himself upwards. Claws emerging from the toes, digging into the wood of the building before him and launching off that to land on the rooftop. He released them at the same time as his mass began to shrink to a six-footer size.

He glanced over them as he moved forward, saying: "Now on the rooftops we must move quickly. The wizard will notice our ascent." Then without wasting a beat, Vaaltari jumped and landed with ease. Turning to look back at them- he motioned for them to follow. The gap was hardly a foot wide, but then again with his legs and the physique of his kind a jump like that was more like skipping.

Mentions: N/A

Interactions: BriiAngelic Arcanist Aelia Aeldyne

 

[Jet]

​

Ayana covered the rear when retreat sounded, keeping two arrows drawn as they ran down the cobbled street — though ran was a strong word. The group was molasses-slow. Ayana hated how screwed they were and wanted to scream I'm done running, before countering strength with strength. To somehow capture the arrogant master mage and taunt you disgust me, creation is sacred you insane murdering crone! But combat was suicide when two teammates were wounded.

The monstrous mage would crush them, and escape seemed equally impossible when streets were cleared. Mass crowds were cover when avoiding enemies... problem was there were none. Locals were long gone, shooed away when combat broke out minutes ago. Any moves the group made were obvious given the circumstances — ones only raw speed could solve. But unfortunately the group moved slower than continental displacement.

Lucky for everyone, the huntress had plans.

Ayana would spawn street-level clouds to conceal movements, so everyone could escape the thoroughfare unseen. Great focus and around ninety seconds were needed though, as condensing countless gallons was laborious work, but soon a cold mist crept around the escapees. Of course more time was needed until they were hidden below white cloud cover, but the start was good. Ayana was happy with how her spell proceeded, and relished the cool droplets that rolled across her skin as she ran with the others.

Meanwhile the dancer expressed concerns and Kuma answered one, while feeding into another about enemy strength. Ayana agreed with them about master mages, they were absurd enemies. But right now she needed to be positive to comfort the southern man — who seemed unflappable moments before. Ayana noticed how doubt played across his sharp face when he struggled down the road, and wanted to help.

"Kuma is right! We have medical mages in our group — I'm sure your leg won't be a problem when they care for you later! I have magic that can ease your pain too, Forest Elves have our ways" she explained, subtle coyness punctuating the end before adding "These mages are incredibly strong from those charging orbs, but they won't be a problem when everyone is together. We have many strong warriors! I know we can beat them together when we group up. Soon this whole street will be one giant cloud and we can escape, then there's no way they can take us down!"

Once Ayana was done, Vanessa spoke from Kuma's grasp, her words coming between pained gasps. "We can.... Gates has.... something we can... use"

Anne Boolean Sarahspn Lost Echo

 

[Taigakitt]

~???~​

Eastern Gates​

Mentions: Sarahspn Anne Boolean Jet
​

At the Eastern Gate, a flash of blue ran behind the building, loud scuttling following loud footsteps. Crash! Something must have fallen.

Close up. A young girl, aged around 11 years old, was on the ground. She wore a deep blue dress that had bright butterflies on the skirt. Sitting at the crevice between her collarbones was a little skull. Her light blue hair was up in twin buns, black ribbons adorning them. The left had a similar little skull. A barrel turned on its side lay next to her. The alley was littered with similar barrels and some crates.

She quickly got up, dusting her skinned knees off, holding the tears back out of her red eyes. Sniffle. "Beings of darkness don't cry. Beings of darkness don't cry." She muttered to herself a few times. Deep breath. With a shake of her head, she fixed the expression on her face. One that she hoped screamed 'I'm serious and powerful!'

Chuckling to herself, she went down the alley, stopping at the end. She peeked around the corner, curious to see who her next 'victim' would be.

She spotted the horses, and her eyes grew wide, almost sparkling. She shook her head again, "Beings of darkness can't become distracted."

Back to the serious expression as she gazed out at the many horses.

 

[Anne Boolean]

Kiel Shan​

Only when Kuma spoke and he turned to look at her did Kiel notice the state of the woman she helped move. Her agonized expression made him feel a little guilty that he had considered not continuing with the group. With Vanessa being Clive's daughter he assumed that she would have to go along with her father, even if she was moments away from death. The assurance from the others of his condition improving was nice though, and did indeed raise his mood.

"Yes, I suppose you're right," he said as sincerity returned to his smile. The mist from Ayana's spell soothed the burning on his palm and where the arrow had struck. The little woman seemed to have confidence in their power as a group with all the explorers, even believing that with all of them together they can take down the inquisition. The dancer was still skeptical though. "Maybe we'd be able to take down that woman, but I fear it wouldn't be without many casualties..." He had no idea the size or power of the organization though, so who knew how many more people like her would confront them.

That's when Vanessa chimed in. "Don't speak. Just rest," Kiel said with a rare sternness in his tone. If her father was as protective as his own parents had been over he and his sister they would already be facing dire consequences upon regrouping; they didn't require it to become any worse. What she said though interested him. "Gates has something we can use?" Is that what she had said? Who or what was "Gates?" Was she referring to the eastern gate, where they were to rendezvous? What could possibly be there which could help them?

Well, it seemed they would find out soon enough. As the group stepped out of the mist the eastern gates soon came into sight. There were already a few people gathered just beneath it, but as Kiel limped closer it became evident that they were none of the folks he had seen sign up for the expedition the night prior. Even Clive hadn't seemed to have arrived yet. Upon approaching the group the dancer made sure to keep somewhat of a distance between himself and these new people, both socially and in terms of physical proximity. It was quite out of character for the outgoing man, but for all he knew they were also members of the Inquisition, and they didn't need a repeat of what they had just gone through.

Jet Lost Echo

 

[Sarahspn]

​

Jane and Rose were sitting on the back of the cart watching the people of the town go about their day. The sun was shining bright and the sky was almost clear of clouds. It would've been a perfect day to be on the water. Rose heard footsteps approaching them and turned to see Stone. Giving him a small smile, she turned back to watch the scenery. Jane noticed his presence and sat up straight, turning towards him. "Hey Stone!" she said, giving him a smile as he looked through the supplies they had.

Amalia came to the back shortly after and excused herself to look through the supplies as well. Although she was actually paying attention to what they had while Stone just pawed around to look busy. "Hey, Amalia!" Jane said, giving her a smile as well. Jane got off the cart and did a small stretch. Sunny flew up to sit on her shoulder and stretched out her wings, mimicking Jane. "So... what type of people do you think we're gonna meet? Do you think we'll like them? How many of them do you think there are? Is this mission even real?" Jane asked multiple questions, going one of her usual ramblings. "Jane." Rose spoke up, giving her a look. "Asking too many questions at once, I know." he brunette frowned. "Oh! Amalia! I have a super-duper important question. Where did you get your armor? It's sooo pretty." she said, her smile growing as she admired the knight's armor.

Rose smiled a little at her sisters questions. Something blue flashed in her peripheral vision and she quickly turned her head. She heard the faint sound of something falling over. What was that? Seeing nothing out of the ordinary except for a few overturned barrels, Rose furrowed her brow. She hopped off the back of the cart and slowly walked over. Standing in front of the barrels, she surveyed the area. She didn't see anything and shrugged. Turning around to walk back, she saw a glimpse of blue hair. "Hello? Who's there?" She asked, turning back to the barrels.

Jane watched Rose walk off and frowned. She went to go follow her sister but noticed a small group walking towards the gate. They were moving slow and one of them was carrying a person. "Hey! Is everything okay?" She yelled at them, taking a few steps in their direction. As she got closer she saw how bad they actually looked. "Uh, I think they need help." Jane said nervously, glancing back at Stone and Amalia.

Taigakitt Anne Boolean Jet Lost Echo

 

[Taigakitt]

Stone ???​

Stone looked over to see Amalia come to check on the supplies as well. That should satisfy their patron. Before hopping off the back of the cart, he made sure to grab a sign he had prepared during their week trip.

Of course, Jane was talking up as much as usual. He smiled back at her, patiently waiting for her to finish her rambling of questions. Once she was finished, he answered what he could, "I grabbed the sign I was working on during the trip. Since we do not know who everyone is. If the group had to do any supply gathering like we did, there is a chance that Mr. Bean and his gathered members split up," he lifted the sign he had mentioned, waving it a little, "though, the truth of the mission being real is hard to pin down. After all, this is about the well of legend, never having been found in who knows how long." He shrugged, "We get paid at least."

The sign he held was a simple two-by-four for the handle, glued to a larger, flat piece. The flat piece said, "Mr. Clive Bean Meeting." Stone stabbed the sign into the ground by their horses, hopefully in plain sight.

In regards to Amalia's armor, he turned around to face the knightly person, "I do agree. The armor is splendid. Gorgeous, really."

Rose's voice, which he did not hear very often, sounded questioning. He turned his gaze in the quiet sister's direction, tilting his head slightly to see what she was referring to.

Jane went off in a different direction, concerned about them carrying someone, which caught Stone's attention more than Rose's curiosity.

The talkative sister had mentioned the other group needing help. Stone bowed lightly to her, "I will see what I can do to assist."

He walked in their direction, adding onto Jane's question of their well-being, "We can assist you." Of course, he was unaware that this group of people were those that would be joining them on the mission.

Mentions: Sarahspn Anne Boolean Jet Lost Echo ​

 

[Lost Echo]

Cool moist air droplets soothed Kuma’s parched oki, the holes fluttering to take in as much as possible. As the clouds thickened, she could feel her horkin cooling off on its own; without an external burst of ice. Thankfully. It was enough to keep her from pointing out the flaws in the elf’s optimism.

She knew that woman was not alone, the child clearly a part of the group. Her eyes flicked to Vanessa, ignoring her as she spoke--obviously they were hoping for help at the gates. Were the other groups; the ones without “Clive” and Vanessa harmed?

The eastern gates were smaller than those Kuma had entered, but still clearly their destination. Her eyes shifted, counting the horses they had paid for. There did not seem to be any issues among them. The beasts were strange to her. Calm, even the most temperamental were strangely sedate. Yes, their legs were strong, and their bites strained her clothes, but they were tame. The little she understood of their anatomy seemed as if Kukumita had forsaken them. She would rather take the risk of being eaten any day.

There was also a wagon, with a group of beings loitering around it. As Kiel lagged back, she stepped forward, lowering Vanessa into her arms with more care than previously. If worse came to worse, she would be a decent shield. Kuma did not expect it though. The girl that approached was unarmed, and did not feel of magic. While one could hide their power, the orb was such that Kuma doubted any could.

“Yes,” Kuma remembered to move her lips--thankfully she hadn’t absorbed them--in time with her words. “Please, we were attacked in the streets.” She knew to keep to the truth, but details were not necessary. “Any aid you could offer would be welcomed. Even to sit in the shade of your wagon to rest would help. We have other companions with skills in healing who should meet us here.” Then she shifted her lips again, into a smile that was a bit more sharp than intended, but still wry. “As you can see, my body is different than yours. I would be little help myself.”

The sound of hammering had her turn her head slightly, to make out one of the girl's companions. If her eyes could have, they would have widened. Instead her mouth fell still, partially opened. This was a type two. An unlike the birds, he looked like he could do damage. Perhaps Kukumita could be properly appeased in this strange world. Then it spoke. It took her a moment to confirm that this was not a form of mind speech--something she had never risked with a type two--but instead sounds coming from its mouth. What the sire? It could speak? Her time as a diplomat's guard did teach her to roll with surprises. "Thank you, anything would help." She bowed slightly, more a nod of her head.

She relaxed as she felt Nezumi return to the surface. The water droplets in the air bathed her thin fur, cleaning it as she ran, hiding beneath the fog. After confirming they each were well, she spoke of a monster within the sewers, because of course. But it found larger prey to hunt.

Taigakitt Jet Sarahspn Anne Boolean

 

[Taigakitt]

Freya Hamrammr

Freya ran with all of the might she could muster. Of course, a giant woman such as herself, with a two-handed axe in her arms was quite the sight, and people who were on the streets as she ran quickly moved out of her way. It helped that she shouted to make sure no one would slow her down.

She wasn't sure what Bjorn was doing at this point, but she had faith in her husband, and they knew where their meeting place was. Right now, Freya was more concerned with making sure everyone was okay.

Before long, something caught her eye. She partially remembered what everyone looked like during breakfast. Some more notable than others, but two of them she was drinking with. They were with the horned woman. Her eyes lit up. Though they were wearing different clothes than when they started, they seemed relatively unharmed. She still wanted to make sure.

She didn't want to give their position away though, as it looked like they were being careful, so she stopped her running and shouting. She placed her axe back to her back. She had no hood to throw over her face, but there was a chance that whatever group was chasing Leone and Gwen wouldn't really recognize her.

She was going much slower at this point as she powered through the throng of people in the streets. She caught some words from them, hushed tones about a fire to the cafe, and how multiple fights seemed to break out at once. To her, that felt like a confirmation that everyone else was hit.

After moving a few people out of her way, she was finally in earshot, without needing to shout, "Oh thank goodness. You guys!" She attempted to get their attention quickly, without trying to raise her voice. Something itched at Freya though. She remembered there being a fourth to this group. He was a snake, and he didn't seem to be with them.

Mentions: Jet Sarahspn ​

 

[Anne Boolean]

Kiel Shan Amalia Winters​

When greeted by Jane, Amalia looked up from the supplies and simply gave a wordless wave. A pang of guilt rose into her chest, as she felt her response was rather unfriendly, but fear held her back from doing anything more. At this point she figured her companions had gotten used to her rather distant behavior though, and hoped they didn't mind too much.

Although she heard the many questions the more talkative of the pirates sisters had, she once again stayed silent, assuming they were more so for her sister. Hearing Stone respond made it evident that they were open questions, but she still kept her voice out of it. Her responses would mostly consist of "I don't know"s and "I'm not sure"s so she wouldn't exactly be adding much to the conversation. When the conversation changed to her armor though it seemed that she needed to respond.

The woman cleared her throat before responding with a higher-pitched, "Thank you." She then went on to explain, "The armor is a regular full suit of knight's armor issued to soldiers of The Marsh Gates. The only things I myself have found is the ornaments added on. I found them at the markets of local towns or bought them from traveling salesmen. The gold trim is actually... well, pyrite. A smith I met wanted to do more artistic work, and added the trim for me to model at a festival." A model, the job reserved for the most beautiful of women, and Amalia could have claimed to have done it. It would have been an extremely disingenuous statement though.

The knight also turned when she heard the sound of something crashing. She turned in the direction of its source in time to see Rose making her way towards it, asking if everything was okay. Amalia herself would have followed if the four wounded individuals approaching hadn't caught her attention first. Disregarding the supplies, Amalia too, along with Stone and Jane, went to check on the new arrivals.

Upon hearing the first woman to approach question whether they needed help, Kiel let out a soft sigh.

He hobbled over and spoke in agreement with Kuma, saying, "Yes, please... if you have any medicine or know of any healing magic that would be greatly appreciated. One of our companions is gravely wounded." He motioned over to Vanessa, although from how he was holding onto his staff to merely stay standing the same could be said about him.

"One of you get blankets for them to lay down on," Amalia instructed Stone and Jane. It was spoken in her natural deep voice, and had a tone of urgency.

Jet Sarahspn Taigakitt Lost Echo

 

[Taigakitt]

~ ? The Winged Assassin ? ~
Sarahspn ​

"Kukuku... It seems I was spotted!" She hopped around the edge of the building she was peeking from behind after being called out to by Rose. She dramatically draped a hand over one eye, the other arm reaching out, fingers in a dramatic pose.

"I am the Winged Assassin, bringer of death butterflies!" She put one foot in front of the other, standing more sideways now.

"What power must you have, to have noticed me?" She closed her eyes, shaking her head with a chuckle, "Kukuku... I should not have underestimated you, Keeper of Horses!" She lifted the hand that she had outstretched into the air.

She flashed her red eyes open, "Come to me, power of the rifts!" In a showy fashion, she threw... nothing at Rose, "Show my enemy thy power!"

A gentle breeze came by, though it was a natural one, as nothing happened.

The girl stood there, expression expectant.

 

[Jet]

GM Post for Liam EldridSmith
The collaboration fight has concluded, but we keeping secrets so it's not being posted
Anne Boolean Sarahspn Taigakitt Lost Echo​

Liam dashed down unpaved roads, seeing Smallgate spires over the tenements he passed between. Below the massive gate-towers he traveled to, escapees gathered around another group from the west, and the southern boy would come next. Emerging from narrow backstreets, Liam exploded out onto a large boulevard — one connected to Whaleshell's wide eastern gateway that stood forty meters from where Liam stood.

Beyond crowds he spotted known faces, standing around an overstocked wagon beside city-walls. Moving down the street, he passed produce wagons, scheming merchant, street performers, and countless businesses too. Among them were general stores, equipment and enchantment dealers, weapon makers and many armorers. Random locals moved through the streets too, creating true pandemonium that swept across East Main Street.

Eventually the young man emerged from madness, and approached the group who stood near the stone wall where large crowds were absent. Anyone seeing him would know something was wrong immediately, as blood leaked from snake scales and deep bruises covered exposed skin. He was wounded worse than anyone else there.

If only they saw the other guy.

Leone

​

​

"With the way he runs, he's probably in the next city waiting for us already" Leone answered when Gwen mentioned Liam. His words were almost serious, because snakeman was a speed-demon and nothing dangerous called sewers home. Liam would probably escape without an issue, and lurk around eastern gates awaiting everyone else... unless he bailed from the mission of course.

"I bet he's at the gate, I'm more worried about the others to be honest" Leone added, noticing smoke plumes when Gwen looked north, following her gaze. His brow furrowed when black clouds formed, and he mused 'must be from one of our groups battling a master, hope nobody ends up dead' as subtle concern played across his face. Leone envisioned mission members swinging below inquisition gallows, and his hands tensed with anger. He wanted everyone to escape, especially the known ones.

He worried about the northerners most, wondering 'hope they're doing well' as food-group cut across central market, stopping only when Freya appeared from the crowd! "Freya! Good you're okay! But the others in your group, have they been captured? Where is everyone? Are they..... gone?" he asked, looking around for enemy troops as the conspicuous northerner joined them — none were close. They searched where Gwen slammed shingles moments before. A clever distraction keeping eyes away from them, as three adventurers became four.

​

Sarahspn Taigakitt