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May 23rd, 2018

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Pursuit of Shadows and Light; Main RP topic 1.
Topic Started: Feb 13 2018, 09:53:32 AM (1,132 Views)
Captain Red
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>not liking blondes

The continent of Aria, named after the Divine Dragon who sheltered humanity in her feathered wings. For years she remained on the earth, guiding the people with never-ending light and helping them build their first civilizations. However, the light soon gave way to darkness. The Demon Dragon, a being of pure darkness, raised an army of monsters and brainwashed humans to fight against Aria and her armies of light. After a long, hard-fought war, the light prevailed, the monsters were destroyed, and the Demon Dragon was sealed away. However, the remnants of darkness lingered, threatening to rise once again. To maintain order, the Divine Dragon Aria took to the skies as a powerful light that flew over the continent again and again, chasing away darkness. Thus the cycle of sacred day and vicious night came into being, and the people rebuilt.

It has been one thousand and sixty-six years since then.

The great empire of Cernentia to the southeast, restructuring itself after dismissing its very foundation...

The kingdom of Lithia in the eastern plains, loyally serving under the Empire even as its own people start to crumble and wonder...

The kingdom of Sasune in the northern mountains, split between their allegiance to their ancestors or a new and profitable alliance with the Empire...

And finally, the Wildlands, a once-lawless land slowly but surely being brought together under the banner of the Edwards Trade Guild allied with the exiled Church of Aria...

A single girl's very existence will shake the cores of these four great nations, and the entirety of the continent. Those that tremble will look to the skies and wonder out loud:

What does Aria see?

Two caravans enter the Covenwood, with very different passengers...

###

Max Silverhand was uncomfortable. It was not the way the wagon rocked here and there on the dirt road, or the sun’s bright rays beating down on him and the rest of the Lithia fields. It wasn’t even the driver beside him who had indulged in a little too much small talk for such a long trip. Instead, Max’s thoughts were entirely consumed by the passengers riding behind him, inside the wagon.

The first Max picked up on this journey had been Lennalth, whom Alaric bade accompany him from the beginning. Max did not know his brother to keep any female retainers or apprentices, so this request made him wary. Alaric doted on Max constantly and with varying degrees of understanding, so Max was initially worried the girl was some sort of exotic prostitute tricked into accompanying him — out of a misguided perception of loneliness on his brother’s part. However, after traveling with her for a few days, Max reached the conclusion that she was likely not a prostitute. Lennalth had been extremely wary of him and kept a considerable distance between them — not what you would normally expect from a professional escort. Max was at a loss as to why Alaric would want her traveling with him, especially since she didn’t seem to wield any kind of weapon.

Then there was Calista, the light mage that his mother insisted he travel all the way to the Sasunian border to pick up. Apparently she was the granddaughter of someone Max’s mother studied under — and a fresh face looking to gain experience in the world beyond their tiny hamlet. Max was no different, truly, and he could sympathize with her that much. What really threw him off was how much she talked, and how much she believed whatever he said. She didn’t question one thing about him, his story, or who they were looking for. He could be a brigand leading her into a deathtrap — or worse — and she would be trodding right along behind him, never the wiser.

Finally, as if those two women weren’t enough, there were other travelers in the wagon that drew his suspicion: a quiet young man who joined them at Sasune, a young cleric who was supposed to get off at Sasune but stayed on for some reason, a short but strong girl who remained mostly silent, and a soldier who often volunteered to be a lookout alongside Max himself. All of them had been in Max’s company for at least part of the two-week journey from Lithia to Sasune and back again, all the way through to the Covenwood.

Max hoped this would not be a wild goose chase. He eagerly wished to complete the first mission to take him away from his homeland, and prove to his family that he could handle his own work.

“You worried about your ladies, ain’t ya?” the grizzled driver spoke, all of a sudden.

The question jolted Max from his thoughts. “Not so much, sir.”

The driver swatted the air dismissively with his free hand. “Naw, I know that kinda face when it’s right in front of me, plain as a hot day on the fields. So which one tickles ya more: the foreign beauty or the bright, white lass? Or are the soldier and her axe-hand more your flavor?” His mouth opens, revealing a half-toothy grin. “Maybe you’re lookin’ to steal the little cleric away? There had to be some reason she changed her mind about gettin’ off!”

Did he know that each of the women he mentioned could hear him? The rattling of the wagon wheels and occasional neighing of the horses weren’t so loud as to muddle their conversation through a simple wagon-cloth. “None of them tickle me, and I’m happier for it. There’s better things for me to do than chase skirts, sir.”

“Hah! I knew many men who wed their blades instead of a woman.” His grin fades away. “They didn’t live near as long.”

That begged the question of where his family was now, but that was not something to ask someone carelessly in these times. It’s very likely they were taken or killed by bandits, or—

“My own wife still thinks I’m out here trying to relive the glory days,” the driver continues. “Back when I was facin’ down brigands and the like with a horse and my spear, like I should’ve been named Raymond Shepherd! I tell her, ‘hun, someone has to bring in some gold, because there sure ain’t enough in the fields to feed us after the lord’s taken his share!’ She’s a sweet thing, but she hasn’t left our village since we got married! Some women should just stick to worryin’ about the fields instead of those of us tryin’ to make a livin’ out here.”

Max always had a difficult time listening to those who ranted for their own sake, and when he was finished nodding along, he politely excused himself and crawled through the wagon cover into the wagon proper. With six people in the same wagon, it was more cramped than he would have liked — especially considering the sacks of supplies. But the space was manageable, and there was enough room for him to sit down in the corner, with his back against a sack of potatoes. Calista and Lennalth were by him, while the soldier-girl and the axe-girl were on the other side, and the cleric and the blond man were in the middle.

He figured Lennalth would ignore him anyway, so he turned to Calista first. “Shouldn’t be too long now. You can see the dark forest if you look out to the horizon. We should be ready to disembark within the hour.” Then his gaze fell upon the others in the wagon, who may have been staring at him. “I suppose that goes for all of you, as well.”

Max hadn’t spoken with the others much, but he listened enough to understand that they all more or less had the same destination.

He turned back to Calista and Lennalth, very seriously. “The Covenwood is dangerous. Stay on your guard. Calista, your magic should be especially helpful. Lennalth, I want you to stay out of sight if we’re attacked. Call out if you’re in trouble.”

The redheaded cleric raised her voice and addressed everyone. “Um, excuse me! If the Covenwood is so dangerous, aught we not stay together? A larger group would have less to fear.” She turned to the man beside her, whom she had been conversing with frequently during the trip — though a bit onesidedly, at times. “Is that not true, Richter?”

Max ignored her. He had been warned to have little to do with clerics — and especially to never look them in the eye.
Edited by Captain Red, Jun 22 2018, 12:54:15 PM.
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NoNameAtAll


"Aye, yet nay at the same time, my lady," The hooded man, Richter, said in response to the cleric. Beneath the hood was a head covered with blonde hair and fierce green eyes. He wore a traveling cloak for the moment, but beneath it was a blue tunic. White pants and brown boots were visible. He sat, contemplatively for the most part.

"Uncle..." Richter thought. He was mulling over a letter he had received before he found himself among those in the caravan. His reasons for being with these people was simple. He needed to find his cousin. "To think you would use your own son like this. Are you so craven as to treat him as naught but bait? Regardless, your scheme is transparent. I shall locate Kale, despite your words. You are brilliant, frighteningly so. However, your plot is terribly unoriginal. You shall not best Sasune this day, nor any other."

Upon receiving the letter and reading its contents, Richter began to pen a set of letters. One was to be spread through the kingdom, among those of the common class. Although Sasune was not known for covert operations, that didn't mean Richter didn't have fail-safes; people who he knew he could rely on. They would spread the word with his signature; hushed whispers through the streets so that people know the truth and how to react for what was to come.

Another was addressed to Lillian Everheart of the Edwards Trade Guild. Richter felt his hand had been dealt and he intended to alert the Edwards Trade of what the Empire was likely trying to do. He felt a certain way for the woman, yet he struggled to truly understand it. Rather than dwell, he had also written a copy addressed to Guinevere Edwards. Or Jenna as he had long since known her.

Jenna. The very cleric he currently sat beside. He had willingly made eye-contact when he gave her the letter, knowing full well of the goddess's sight. Only after did he keep his gaze averted.

"The Covenwood is dangerous. Even an entire army as one unit would face peril," He continued. He did not glance at the cleric. "Armed though we may be, our aptitudes would fail in the face of an ambush. Consider the enemy who would be more familiar with the woods than we. Arrows fired from archers among the canopy; nimble thieves darting to and fro between the trees. Were we on an open road, traveling as a singular unit would be logical. Alas, we remain within the forest's reach. It would be wiser indeed to not draw unwanted attention to ourselves."
Edited by NoNameAtAll, Feb 13 2018, 02:20:47 PM.
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GrayPayday
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Glazed over eyes finally moved from their stare at the wooden floor boards of the caravan, brightening up with a bit of a sparkle as a young girl turns her head. A soft, yet awe-struck look adorning her features. Despite being warned of the danger, Calista Keno had a small bit of excitement that couldn't be sated. Upon hearing that they were close to the forest, the teen adjusted herself in her seat, just a small bit. If she hadn't have been concerned with looking professional and keeping a good image in front of the other people in the caravan, she would have wanted to get up to go look past the cover at the big wide world beyond it, one of which she knew almost nothing about.

Instead, she took a bit of a deep breath, and told herself to be patient as she turned her entire attention over to the mercenary who had addressed her. The almost-smile on her lips changed into a straight line as Max continued his statement, her worry overtaking the excitement for a moment now. It was nearly impossible to not notice just how sheltered Calista had been, she hung onto every word Max told her. If her grandmother had taught his mother, then she was sure he was a good man.

At the mention of her magic, the girl nodded her head and gave her tomes a bit of a grip. This would be the first time she'd be using her magic in a properly practical sense, rather than just for training, but she still held a strong sense of determination, her family name was on the line and there was no way she'd let that down after 18 long years. "I'll do my best," One little statement was all she was able to get out before Guinevere's question, eye's darting from her then to the man who sat at her side, the crown prince of the kingdom she grew up in.

Calista held a big sense of pride in her heart, being chosen to go on this mission, and somehow getting to meet the prince himself. She listened intently as he answered the cleric's question, before responding herself, her voice a good bit more peppy than what would normally be appropriate for the setting, "That does make sense, besides, we won't necessarily be extremely far apart, right?" She turned back to Max questioningly, having to look up at him due to the height difference. "You're not expecting her to keep an extremely large distance from us, are you?" She wasn't quite sure what she would define as an 'extremely large distance', but she would feel better knowing that she, and everyone else, would at least still be in view of the cleric in case anything were to happen. Though there was a feeling in the pit of her stomach that this may not be what Max had in mind.
Edited by GrayPayday, Feb 16 2018, 07:14:16 PM.
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Crux


Granza stayed quiet as she listened to the conversation, her ears occasionally twitching as she sat next to her traveling companion. Compared to everyone else, she was just barely taller than what the brown-haired mercenary called a 'light mage,' as she had found out on the ride, and it was only when they were put next to each other that anyone could tell the difference. Ever since the wagon had picked up more people, her own conversations had grown less and less, the symptoms of her previous treatment manifesting, even if these people meant her no harm.

Her hand subconsciously moved to her back, scratching at the spot on her right shoulder blade which beheld her branding. It was a mark that had caused an entire village to disown her, and as far as she was aware, was better off being hidden from prying eyes. She had carefully maintained her clothes so that they didn't let the merest glimpse of it slip to the others; despite their attitudes, her long exile had done a number on her ability to trust people. Being a little unsocialized, but knowledgeable of her place and rankings, she could tell that at least one or two among the group were fairly important. The way the blond man spoke held power and command; his face had the worry lines of an elder or a clan chief.

Those golden pools roamed from person to person, besides the blond who was seated next to her, taking in their expressions and trying to understand the situation. There was very little that she knew of coming from the new group, however; she had hopped on with the soldier, who she had been hired for as a guide and protector while they made their way towards the Covenwood, but she had no idea what their destination's end entailed.

At mention of splitting up, the dark-skinned girl spoke up, raising her hand. "If you need someone who can identify hazards like that, I have been a tracker on the steppes and forests for years. Having early warning of anything ahead would be a good idea."

Her voice was soft, almost unnoticeable if it weren't for the quiet inside the wagon already.

Edited by Crux, Feb 21 2018, 07:55:45 PM.
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TechnicZado
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DON'T LOSE YOUR WAAAAAAAAAAY!!

Lennalth watched the other passengers idly as they rode in the wagon, listening to the conversation that drifted from the front between Maximilian and their driver. He sure likes to hear himself talk, she thought to herself, before the sudden stop in their conversing drew her attention, along with the disturbances in the wagon cloth. Her mood immediately soured as Max poked through, her passive expression turning to a potent scowl before she turned to look out the back, her eyes drifting toward the sky.

Though it was unknown to the others, Lennalth was a manakete, one who had traveled far from her home on the coast of Terrentia. What she had been searching for, even she didn't truly know. But her travels had landed her in Lithia, a new place for the young woman to learn and meet interesting people...or so she had thought. Her first true "interactions" with humans had led to her Thunderstone being stolen by a bunch of street urchins; they had no idea what it truly was of course, simply that it looked like a large and expensive gemstone. Desperate to have her precious dragonstone back, she'd asked a local man for help. That man would turn out to be Alaric, Max's elder brother and the very reason she was on this trip, and also why she was so distrustful of the mercenary.

Rather than return her stone, Alaric kept hold of it, apparently knowledgeable about what it truly was, since he had threatened to destroy it if she told Maximilian about the events that had transpired that led to her joining him.

Hearing him address her, Lennalth solemnly turned her head back toward the interior of the wagon, giving Max a curt nod in response. Her distance, physically as well as emotionally, meant that it was less likely she would spill the beans and put her life at risk.

Edited by TechnicZado, Feb 20 2018, 05:17:05 PM.
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NemesisZeru
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Loodness overload

The soldier girl sat in the wagon as well, idly reading a book. Based on the cover, it seemed to be about flowers. While she had initially been excited for the trip, and a chance to help Colette... travel by wagon was boring, mission or no. Lenaliel had discovered something about herself on the trip: While she didn't mind being patient... days spent just sitting in a wagon were leaving her restless. While she didn't want to admit it, she found it hard to sleep lately. She'd grown so used to her routine back in Repose, that such a deviation left her... uneasy. She kept thinking about back home... wondering if everyone was alright, as well as if her garden was doing well.

Her sole request to Colette had been to have someone take care of her garden while she was gone... and even then she felt a bit bad about that. The young knight had an interest in such things from an early age: If the sight of various pretty flowers could cheer even one person up, she'd consider it time well spent. In fact, during stops on the journey, she'd taken to collecting flower seeds. Much to her delight, she'd found some rarer flowers, and the discovery had brightened that whole day. The soldier girl had put the seeds she'd collected in a leather pouch

Before long, Max's head poked out, letting them know they had almost arrived at their destination. Lenaliel sighed softly, finding herself rather relieved. Putting her book away, she glanced over to the cleric, who'd spoken up. "Staying together would hardly be a terrible idea. Safety in numbers, after all." she agreed, nodding. Of course, it was her duty as a knight of the Church to help people. "That said, my opinion alone might not be enough, so... S-sorry. Hopefully it works out, though!"

Much to her surprise, Granza spoke up next! The girl had remained almost unnaturally quiet for the majority of the trip. So much so that Lenaliel worried the poor girl might have some sort of issue with her voice. Fortunately, she seemed to be wrong on that front! "A tracker, huh? I suppose that makes sense." she reasoned. With her quiet and seemingly stoic nature, it seemed like something Granza would excel at. "It certainly seems reasonable enough. Forewarned is forearmed... or however it is the saying goes. A little heads up if there might be trouble definitely wouldn't hurt, either way." Reaching for her shield, she pulled it on to her lap... although she hoped she wouldn't need it just yet.
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Captain Red
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>not liking blondes

Jenna was eager to take on the discussion and lend an ear to everyone's thoughts. When everyone had said their piece, she turned to Richter first. "I respectfully disagree with you. I think that if we travel separately, we may all be hunted regardless. Our combined strengths would be our only advantage, and give potential foes pause." Then she casts a bright smile at Granza. Like Lenaliel, Jenna was also pleasantly surprised to hear her contribute. "And we do have someone who appears to accustomed to the wilderness. Especially with a capable scout like her, our best tactic would be to stay together until we reach whatever form of civilization the Covenwood is willing to provide. In that, I agree with Lenaliel."

Max, on the other hand, seemed to have little interest in conversation. However, Calista's question hung in his mind, and forced him to respond to this budding, unwanted cooperation. "I did not know clerics had a mind for tactics," he remarked coolly, "especially one acting by her lonesome."

Jenna aimed her smile at Max, unfazed. "The Goddess is always with me, is what I should say. But I admit to a sense of unease, and a desire for companions. Does the prospect of a healer not appeal to you?"

Max continued to avoid her gaze, but did glance at Lenaliel, as he declared, "I would rather not stay close to you. I have no intention of cooperating with the Church, be it knight or cleric."

"You seek to tread these woods as merely a party of three?" Jenna pressed on. "That is a risk I did not know level-headed mercenaries to take."

Max looked at Calista, then Lennalth. "You may lack faith in your Goddess, and discretion at that, but I can muster some confidence in my companions' abilities," he said. "And if their skills are not up to par, then I will compensate with my own. That is my duty."

Jenna stared at Max for a moment, onesidedly. Then, she sighed and slouched back against the wood of the wagon. "I have met many who distrust the Church, but you at least do not seem cruel or ignorant — only rude and stubborn."

"Then I will accept that," he said, before addressing Calista. "If they form a group and travel in the same manner, then that is their own decision. But I do not know their aims, or their characters. I see no reason for us not to avoid them entirely."

Jenna chuckled to herself dryly, and murmured. "Maybe if you were a bit more social..."

Max ignored her, and continued. "Our own mission is most important. I do not trust the Church, and I do not trust strangers. I mean no offense, but that is simply how it is. "

Although the other travelers may have discussed their reasons for being on the journey before, Max 's habit was not to involve himself with others unless it benefited his mission — one that he did not explain to others nor did he allow Lennalth or Calista to speak of. Even Jenna, who spoke often and with anyone, focused more on others instead of revealing her own intentions. In that sense, both Max and Jenna were a bit of an enigma. Even Calista or Lennalth — if she had the mind to — would find it difficult to speak with Max, for if he weren't suspicious of them, he would be suspicious of others. And even then, he would much prefer to discuss tactics, or about their relations to his family rather than surrender any of his own background.
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NemesisZeru
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Loodness overload

Lenaliel paused, frowning. "I do not blame you for a lack of faith in the Church." she began. "Reasonable skepticism can... certainly be a healthy thing, I suppose." She paused for a moment, as if uncertain whether or not she could continue. Max was certainly hard to read. In the week they'd spent traveling together, she felt as thought she had only the slightest inkling of who he was. During the trip, Lenaliel had spoken with most of her fellow travelers, and she thought she knew them decently well. Max, however, was still a mystery. On the other hand, she knew Jenna quite a bit better. As fellow members of the Church, they'd gotten along rather well... although she supposed this might make her a bit bias on the current subject.

"Still, if we are to talk of duty, then it is only fair for me to bring up mine as well. This shield..." she gently tapped her shield for emphasis. "Is meant to protect everyone, not just those who see eye to eye with the Church. Even if you don't trust me, I want to be there to help if anything were to happen on the road. ...Honestly, I'd probably feel guilty otherwise." she admitted. "So, even if you can't believe in the Church nor myself... please, try to believe in that desire to help." she paused for a moment, trying not to laugh. By the Goddess, how melodramatic that sounded! She wasn't sure if she should be proud or embarrassed. Lenaliel looked away, blushing.

After a few moments however, Lenaliel managed to regain her composure. The blonde knight smiled slightly, switching tactics. "I may not know you as well as I would like, Max... but I know you are a relatively practical man. Even if you don't trust us, there's a tactical advantage to having extra allies at your disposal. Would you really give up this advantage rather then spend a short time longer in our company? Still... I suppose it's your decision. If my... somewhat embarrassing words didn't convince you, there's probably not much else I can do on the matter."
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Captain Red
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>not liking blondes

When Lenaliel brought up her shield, Max found himself staring at it until a moment after the fact — so intently that when she finished speaking, Lenaliel may have thought he had completely tuned her out. Then he blinked a couple of times and spoke, perhaps not as crudely as he had before. "You seem to be sincere in your desire to protect others. I commend you for that. However, we have our duties, and you have your own. If you reach your shield out too far, you will leave yourself — and those closest to you — open to danger. For all you know, I may be a foe in disguise."

Max seemed like he might continue, but then looked away from Lenaliel with the slightest bit of red in his face. "I apologize. I do not mean to lecture someone I hardly know. For what it is worth, I do not find your words embarrassing. The true embarrassment would be to feel shame for such a noble desire, naive though it may be."

Once more Max suddenly stopped speaking, and sighed. "I apologize again. I appear to be unable to help myself. My brother has endowed me with an awful habit."

Jenna giggled quietly —perhaps it was even a snicker. "You do not have to try so hard. Be at ease."

Max nearly glanced at Jenna, but corrected himself at the last moment by turning to Richter instead, creating a situation where his words were meant for Jenna but spoken at Richter. "I do not intend to be so rigid. I am only focused on—"

"—your duty, yes." Jenna finished for him, with no small amount of exasperation. "I know. At least I can confirm that you are not rude out of malice — only awkwardness, perhaps from social withdrawal."

"I have no intention to confirm or deny that," Max replied.


###


Meanwhile, the forests of the Covenwood were as noisy as ever. The birds and insects, as well as a forest floor twisted by the gnarled roots of great trees, constantly sought to distract those who might enter unaware. However, the dangers of the forest were inherent: wolves, bears, poisonous spiders, wildcats —and those were only the animals. The bandits of the Covenwood were unlike those that might be familiar to the rest of the world: burly men and women with wild attitudes and giant axes. Instead, many of them were mages with sharp minds that were either soullessly practical or despicably sadistic, and ruthless besides. These warlocks and witches tread lightly on the magicked ground, catching their prey completely unaware. To walk in ignorance of magic was to walk to your death, or so it was said.

Those trained in the art of Dark Magic at least had a distinct advantage, for the dark mage was adept at making themselves transparent. Unlike other magics, there was no controlling dark magic — instead, the caster can only hope that it does not devour their soul. Therefore, a tremendous amount of spiritual fortitude and mental control was needed to keep their soul small and safe from the magics they channel. The effects of this practice were many — a detachment from emotions and instinct being among them — but ironically enough the most noticeable effect was the lack of presence even novice dark mages possessed. Of course, there was debate whether or not their lack of presence was a direct result of using Dark Magic, or it was a part of their character that allowed them to use Dark Magic in the first place. Research was limited, because of the lack of tolerance for Dark Magic in civilized places in the world along with a deep reluctance for dark mages themselves to share their findings and experiences.

Therefore, when Kristine Erebus — a novice dark mage, but still one able to more easily sense the presences of others while concealing her own, especially when it comes other mages — was surprised by a girl's voice that came from right behind her, she knew that there was something very wrong.

"Ahoy there!" the girl shouted, despite being only a pace away. "You live around here? Know where to find water? I was looking for a drink, and a bath if the water is just right."

She was notably shorter than Kris, with long, blonde hair and pale skin. She wore a black cloak but kept the hood down and the front loose, revealing a red dress with the skirt haphazardly shortened by some type of shear, coming down to a little above her knee after the modification. However, her bare legs were covered by black stockings and slim, black boots. Sure enough, on closer inspection it seemed that she has been traveling for some time, as her clothes smell of sweat and scraps of dirt, leaves, and other evidence of nature could be seen in her messy, light hair.
Edited by Captain Red, May 20 2018, 07:57:44 PM.
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GrayPayday
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Calista looked back and forth between everyone as they said their piece, feeling unable to add anything noteworthy to their discussion. The young acolyte simply listened intently, hugging her tomes close to her chest as Max turned to her as he mentioned being confident in his allies. This put the poor girl a little at ease, making her feel a little bit better around her companions and a bit better about herself as well. She also stared at Lenaliel's shield as she spoke, feeling slightly torn between too sides.

Finally after some thinking, Calista spoke up, looking up at Max as she addressed him, "If you believe we'd be better off splitting up, for one reason or the other, then perhaps we should," While she was still weary on not having a healer or knight close by, maybe it would be for the best. She knew nothing of the Church, and well, if her family trusted Max, she should as well. Besides, maybe it would be best to try and rely on only herself and a couple of others, than a whole big group.

Some nervousness and doubt took over as Calista looked down again, almost feeling like she could have spoken out of turn, she really was not used to this. She began fiddling with the ribbon book mark in one of her tomes, wrapping it around and between her fingers in an attempt to calm herself down. "That is.. if that's what everyone else decides on as well.. I'm pretty okay with whatever, I suppose..." Shifting again in her seat the poor girl looked at her shoes, awaiting any sort of response.
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GoldenAce
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Comickaze

"Ugh... Kris... what are you doing?" Almost tripping for the third time in the past hour, she finally started to slower her pace. "The next town could be anywhere, you're already almost out of water, NO food left, why did you think this would work again?" Finding a nearby log, she sat down, stretched, and began reviewing her journal.

"Ok... I took a left at this river, which means i should be somewhere near... here? ...Oh dear..." Her heart dropped as she looked at the map in her Journal. "According to this i am deep in the heart of Covenwood's DeepWoods." Tracing a line along her path, she double and triple checked where she was, until letting out a sigh of desperation. "Which means i have to go straight through bandit country to get to the next town. AAAARRRGGG!" Throwing her book aside, letting out a yell of anguish, she threw her hands into her face.

"Useless! IM SO USELESS!" She shouted. "I'll never find father wandering around the woods trying to avoid bandits like this. I just..." She stopped, taking in several breaths to compose herself. "Ok, remember what grandmother said? Dark mages can conceal their aura and hide in the shadows around the woods. I should be able to sneak by the bandits this way, long as i don't get too close."

Retracing where she was, she looked onward, towards the sun. "West is that way, so i should south... this way." Pointing, she regathered her things, and began marching off, muttering enchantments to help hide her presence while she did so.

###

"EeehhhAAAAA!!!" Shouting at the young girls voice behind her, Kris quickly turned around, throwing her tome in the air out of fright, and falling backwards. "Shh!!! sh sh sh sh!" She hushed. "There are Bandits very close to where we are! keep down!." Crawling and regathering her things, she suddenly realized. "Wait, how did you find me? An enchantment like that is only able to be seen through by someone who... oh..."

Going pale as a ghost, she realized that this may be one of the 'bandits' she's been trying to avoid. Kneeling, she began begging. "Please don't hurt me!" She tossed aside her satchel of water and pouch of gold. "Just take whatever but please, spare me!" She was almost in tears now, bent over, clutching her tome for safety, fearing she may have to actually use it in combat for once.
Edited by GoldenAce, Mar 15 2018, 09:11:59 AM.
Gold is fine
I may be immature, but I'm the fun/creative kind of
immature that always brings fresh ideas and smiles
Gyuntha. A Sekihan orphan with crystal blue hair and onyx eyes. Abandoned because he was unloved? Or because he was feared?
Emylee. Blacksmith with a rotten past. Cold, full of walls, and hot headed to boot.
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NoNameAtAll


Richter had little to add after he had been rebutted by Jenna about staying as a group. He simply nodded in understanding beneath his hood. He listened to Max and Jenna's little discussion, not interested in adding anything. Although Richter wasn't a man of faith in any form, he didn't want to risk potentially causing diplomatic tensions if his identity was inevitably brought up. Jenna didn't worry him since she likely already knew his stances, but Lenaliel was an unknown factor despite the fact that her morals seemed to align with Richter's on the whole.

He was most impressed by her dedication to acting as a shield for everyone, although he worried if she would try to shoulder all of the burdens in that sense. No matter the case, Richter was resolved to participate in any battles that broke out. Not only to help his allies, but to directly protect Kale if the need arose.

He noticed Max looking at him even if the words he spoke were directed toward Jenna. Richter simply gave him a short glance but turned his attention elsewhere. Max intended to maintain a sense of professionalism, which Richter wasn't about to object to. And he fully understood why he was looked at considering Jenna's abilities. It was one more reason he was grateful for his hood.

"Dame Lenaliel," Richter said finally. "Your words are powerful; the resolve behind them greater still. I doubt my words are needed, but do be careful."
Edited by NoNameAtAll, Mar 15 2018, 01:43:13 PM.
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NemesisZeru
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Loodness overload

"I'm not worried about leaving myself open to danger." Lenaliel replied calmly. Her tone was that of one trying to make something dubious eem fine "In fact, I'd welcome it. Any arrows flying at me are ones not aimed at my allies. If my life is the cost of my duty, then it's a price I'll have to pay. Just like.." she paused for a moment, catching herself. Now was hardly the time to speak of her father's legacy. "T-That said, I rather doubt you're a foe in disguise. If you were, you would have had several chances to harm us already. So either you're needlessly patient, or you actually bear little ill will towards us."

Lenaliel glanced over to Richter, relieved by his support. While he didn't talk much about himself, they certainly got along well enough. "T-Thank you, Richter." she was quick to say. "B-But, um... anyways.." she paused, her embarrassment only growing. It was as if being praised on her words were enough to make them falter. "I still think it's best for us to stay together, at least for a while longer. We're almost there, anyways. S-so... yeah."
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TechnicZado
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DON'T LOSE YOUR WAAAAAAAAAAY!!

"Max," Lennalth called, quietly, when there was a lull in the conversation. Her piercing gold eyes stare at the mercenary in question for a few moments before she resumes. "The oldest mice know to watch for shadows on the desert sands. It might be best for us to bring along as many pairs of eyes as we can, since the enemy has many angles to attack us from. And loathe as I am to admit it, I myself am not useful in a confrontation. At least not currently." She muttered the last bit, looking away briefly before turning back to Max. "You might have to let your prejudices about the Church go and work with these people." Of course, she ignored the hypocrisy of her statement, since her own prejudices were projected at specific individuals. Turning toward the other passengers, Lennalth's dour expression turned much brighter. "Though I will say, we aren't exactly a legion. Seven people aren't too much easier to find than three and four separate."

"Either way, even if we wished to leave them behind, it seems out new compatriots are, for the most part, inclined to go the same direction anyway. We may as well keep an eye on each other."
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Captain Red
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>not liking blondes

Max listened to Calista closely, but was himself made uneasy by her hesitation. She seemed unconfident in her words, and this shift in her countenance was jarring to him. Yet, she agreed with him — despite being open to cooperation as well. Max hoped that standing by this decision and fighting alone would yield a valuable experience for her — and himself as well.

The man he had been looking at to save himself from the Goddess's Sight — Richter, as it were — shared his sentiments in regards to Lenaliel's sentiments. But still Max put some distance between them. He did not trust this cloaked man, for he knew from personal experience that such men had their own agendas. Calista mentioned to him before that he was Prince Richter Vastor of Sasune, but Max found that difficult to believe. That a man so important would travel so far, alone, was too absurd a thought for him to consider at that moment — and the cleric's corroboration with the ruse only widened his suspicions.

Lenaliel's speech, however, took his mind away from Richter. "We share a similar outlook, that is certain, though we differ in our respective approaches," he told Lenaliel. "I hope for the sake of those convictions that we are not enemies, but know that I cannot hesitate if we are."

Max thought about saying more, but stilled his tongue. He had already spoken too much. Those he didn't know were not potential allies — they were potential enemies. That is what he expected, and sharing some common thoughts made no difference. If anything, her words inspired him to steel himself for that very outcome.

However, Lennalth spoke up, surprising Max. He wondered if the wisdom she imparted — despite her apparent young age — was the very reason Alaric had sent her. It conflicted with his own feelings, but there was no denying that Lennalth had made valid points. Having extra eyes in the dense forest would be helpful, for as long as both groups were headed in the same direction. Trying to forcibly separate from them might be more trouble than it's worth, he realized.

"You speak the truth, Miss Lennalth," he replied. "There is no reason to avoid them. It may be beneficial to stay within sight of each other for as long as we are headed in the same direction." Then, he addressed Lenaliel and the others directly. "However, I stand by the belief that our duties are our own. In the end, I must prioritize Miss Lennalth and Calista, as well as our mission. I will not assist in any other agendas, as I do not expect you to do so with ours. As long as we have that understanding, I am content."

Jenna smiled at Max. "Then it's settled," she declared. "From what I understand, this will be the first time entering the Covenwood for each of us. And none of us have a particular destination in mind, do we? It's possible we may end up traveling together for some time after we disembark."

Suddenly, the voice of the driver could be heard over the noise of wheels and hooves. "Y'all might wanna get ready!" he announced. "We're almost at the entrance!"

Not too far from Max were his weapons: a pale green yet otherwise nondescript shortsword, and a standard bastard sword. He prepared for disembarking long ago, and had little to gather. So too did Jenna have a couple of staves but little else, so it appeared.

The cleric sighed. "Finally. It has been far too long since I walked much on the ground. I like to think I'm used to traveling by wheel, but still I always find it a relief when it's over."

Max thought much of the same, but did not voice it.


###


The girl looked down at Kris with a cheerful amusement. She reached down and picked up the container of water, examining it for a moment before she remarked, "I can't say I object to this sort of treatment." Then she uncorked it, turned it up, and took several long drinks. As she removed it from her lips, she exhaled a big sigh and wiped her mouth. "That's much better."

Her red eyes fell on the pouch of gold Kris also laid before her, and she snatched that up as well. After tossing it around with one hand a couple times, she laughed. "Not much here, is there? If I were a bandit, I wouldn't be very pleased. I'd probably have to enslave you or something to satisfy my thirst for banditry."

After letting Kris cower a moment, the girl dropped the gold and the water back on the ground. "Good thing I'm not looking for any of that. The water was enough. As for the bandits, I don't have anything to worry about. Nobody seems to notice me much in this forest. It's a bit annoying, to be honest." She paused with a frown, when she realized that Kris was still on the ground. "Come on, get up. Pull yourself together. I'm not going to hurt you — probably." Judging that this was an appropriate time for pleasantries, she continued energetically after Kris stood up — giving the bewildered dark mage no time to get a word in. "My name's Lynette. I thought I'd find my auntie just by wandering around, but so far I've been pretty disappointed." She glanced at the tome Kris clutched in her arms. "Like right now, for instance. You're a dark mage, but you don't seem like the type who would know anything about her. 'Cassandra of the Black Horizon' doesn't ring any bells in that head of yours, does it? I'm pretty sure that's the name she goes by, unless she's changed it recently."
Edited by Captain Red, Mar 18 2018, 10:35:42 PM.
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