abovexhorizons

[abovexhorizons]

Possible update? I'm quite liking the dual image aesthetic, tbh.

Considering a change in FC, possibly to Alear from Fire Emblem Engage.

She's got lots of good icons that'd fit Isa, as her current FC is sadly lacking.

[abovexhorizons]

It was the sound of something distant that she'd woken up to; her body, jostled awake in a panic. Yet, beneath her was comfort and around her warmth. A bed and a tent of considerable size; a small oil diffuser off to the side, smelling of... Mint and something.

Her mind raced, for a moment; had Safine come to find her? Had she been picked up by some mysterious tribe in the forest; or, perhaps, was this hell?

Isa had no clue; so she'd take a deep breath, checking her arms, legs, torso for any signs of damage. Strangely, there were none; her insides hurt, but that's because she were flung against a tree at mach-speed.

"Where am I...?"

Her voice was soft, spoken in almost a whisper; her mouth tasted of something, not that she could quite put her finger on it yet; perhaps a concoction of materials. She wasn't sure, but there was no large, fire-breathing monster nearby...

At least, she hoped so. Her body ached - but was seemingly otherwise okay - she'd stand up, eyes glancing from side to side, looking for an exit from the tent. Hobbling forwards, she'd softly push to the outside, arm wrapped under her stomach for support.

She didn't need it, but it felt entirely appropriate, her body heating up with each passing second. It was... Pleasant, though, as if she were bathing in a hot springs bath. With each passing second Isa began to feel better, though still held onto herself to keep herself grounded.

The sunset here was more than a little gorgeous, though the idea of being alone at dusk wasn't something Isa truly wanted to consider. A glance at her waist revealed that she lacked her weapon, the iron blade that had saved her so many times before yet to be seen.

She'd lost it during the fight with the monster; it flashed through her mind so quickly, so vividly, she almost reached out for it.

It was the one person Isa didn't want to see; her flowing hair behind her, standing like a statue, shield and sword in hand. Her frame, illuminated only by the now-pale moonlight.

Her first thought was "I want to defend that", only followed up by "how did she find me...?"

She'd walked out, slowly, as if Isa were walking a small tightrope; each step a balancing act between falling over and falling into Safine's imposing figure.

She assumed, by now, that she'd been heard; eyes darted from side to side like a child scolded, biting at her lip to try and figure out the right thing to say.

It was clear, from her post, that Safine was the one that had, in fact, rescued her; a fate as embarrassing as it was welcome, a tired sigh grazing her lips.

"I'm..."

Was she sorry? Yes, she didn't want to worry the other. But she wanted the Hunter to know that she could pull her weight; that she wasn't a liability.

All this caused was for that truth to come pounding down atop her.

She was weak. Useless. Worthless; a true liability to the people of Astera. For a moment, Rika crossed the knights mind before she'd shake it off, knowing that if the other hadn't come to her aid, Isa would have died.

And there was no coming back from that.

"I guess we're waiting out here until dawn, huh."

Her words were curt, Isa taking position by the others side, sitting down and folding her knees into her.

"... I lost my sword."

Her lips curled into a frown, head tilted towards the ground as Isa found herself on the edge of tears; she didn't want Safine to be concerned, or worried, or worse yet angry at her. Yet she knew it were coming, she knew she was going to get yelled at.

Any good will she'd generated, gone. Just like that, in a fit of... Whatever that was. Was it jealousy? No, not quite. She just wanted Safine to look at her, to see that she wasn't going to hinder her.

To see Isa as an equal, as a--

Her thoughts were cut off by a roar, much to Isa's pleasure; it were going somewhere that she couldn't recover from. It was far too soon for a "love at first sight" story, though deny as she might, Isa was at least honest enough with herself that there might be the chance for a budding crush.

Or at least, was, before she'd run off.

"Ah..."

One moment Isa was there, the next moment she was gone. Both Safine and her housekeeper stared at the now closed door in utter silence for ten seconds. Then twenty. Thirty. An entire minute had passed before either of them broke the silence, Vibrissa slowly turning their still unimpressed gaze towards their 'meow-ster'.

By that point Isa would have already gotten far enough into the Ancient Forrest to be outside Astera's protection.

Vibrissa cleared their throat before finally mewling, "I think you should go and stop your mew- new girlfriend. Before she gets herself hurt."

One could almost see a visible puff of steam burst from Safine's head as she tore her gaze away from the door and was now glaring at Vibrissa.

"Girlfriend??!"

"You heard me."

"AARGH!!! You're the worst!"

Safine quite literally burst through her door, completely tearing it off its hinges with how fast she was going (while also ignoring Vibrissa's slightly teasing, "Good luck~!"). She nearly skidded off the platforms and down the waterfall, stopped herself, and practically became a blur as she ran across the bridge and past the smithy.

A returning Hunter who stopped to greet her was completely bowled over for his troubles.

"She couldn't have gone far," Safine thought rationally, albeit still a little flustered from earlier. Isa's armoured boots left deep and conspicuous foot prints, despite the blonde being shorter and thus lighter, giving Safine ample clues to follow as she raced along cliffs and through thickets.

Then the tracks came to a stop, and Safine herself came to a screeching halt right before a small river. She audibly snarled to herself.

"Where did you go...!?"

The answer came surprisingly quickly as she heard the not-too-distant roar of an Anjanath. The one beast she did not want Isa to encounter.

"ISA!!!"

She burst into the clearing not a moment too soon, the flaming brute wyvern bearing down upon Isa's unconscious form with jaws wide open. Its attention was torn away from what should have been an easy snack as it heard a horrific roar, and immediately following that was its world being literally turned upside-down as a sundering strike sent it reeling and falling over, and gave it the worst headache it has ever experienced in its life to boot.

Safine, in her protective rage, had slammed shield-first into its head, her inhuman strength and fury powering a strike that could knock out even an Elder Dragon. Yet Anjanath are tenacious beasts, and it scrambled back onto its feet with a withering roar, only to instantly recoil as Safine roared right back.

It was a monstrous noise that no human could physically make. It was a noise no human should be allowed to make.

It was a little fortunate, then, that Isa was still out cold...

Though every fibre of her being told her to fight, to kill, to butcher this damnable monster for harming her new companion, Safine suppressed her wild instincts. She was able to smell Isa's pooling blood long before she actually saw it, and Isa would slowly bleed out if Safine took the time to annihilate the Anjanath before her.

The brute wyvern lunged with burning jaws agape. All it got was another faceful of shield slamming into it, once again knocking it back.

Safine would be unable to keep this up. She loaded a flashpod into her slinger and fired it at the Anjanath, almost grinning as she heard its pained hollering as it was momentarily blinded, now thrashing and wantonly throwing its weight around in enraged confusion.

This was the opportunity she needed. Safine turned away from the beast and rushed to Isa's side, grimacing as she examined the damage. The blood pool Isa lied on was wide yet thankfully shallow. There were no visibly bite marks nor burns. There were, however, some scratches, as well as a cut on Isa's forehead.

Safine did spot the crushed Jagras corpse...

While the Anjanath was still blinded, Safine picked up Isa tenderly, carefully, making sure to support the blonde's head. She looked around, noted that they had found themselves in Area 4 of the Ancient Forest, and instantly knew that the nearest camp was to the north. She immediately took off running at record-breaking pace, leaving the Anjanath behind.

Through the trees and up the vines... The signature yellow of the sub-camp's tent lifted a weight off Safine's shoulders, and she graciously stepped inside. Immediately she laid Isa down on the tent bed and worked to take off Isa's armour, checking for any damage underneath (and subtly taking note of her athletic figure).

Nothing but bruises, thankfully. That meant most of Isa's injuries were internal (though this in of itself was bad-enough news).

Safine sighed through her nose, riffling through her medical supplies. She took out a Mega Potion, shook her head, and set it aside. She took out a Max Potion, briefly considered it, and once more shook her head as she put it next to the Mega Potion. Then came the Ancient Potion, exactly what she was looking for. Somewhat expensive to make, granted, but this was an emergency.

She pulled off the cork with her monstrous teeth as she gingerly lifted Isa's head and torso at an angle, putting the bottle to Isa's lips. The contents slowly poured into her mouth, Safine making sure not to pour in too much as to make Isa choke, its potent effects already getting to work. Any internal injuries would soon be a distant memory.

By the time Isa awakened, it would already be dusk as the sun dipped below the horizon. Perhaps most of her pain would be gone, perhaps she would feel a little stiff. And, if she were to step out of the tent, she would find Safine at the sub-camp's entrance, standing over the vine-covered cliff, glaring into the trees with sword and shield in hand.

The Anjanath was still out there, conspicuously visible in the overgrown distance from the camp. Its nose-bone had flared as it smelled its surroundings, intent on tracking down the two humans that had escaped it.

After all, Anjanath are tenacious beasts.

[abovexhorizons]

Considering a change in FC, possibly to Alear from Fire Emblem Engage.

She's got lots of good icons that'd fit Isa, as her current FC is sadly lacking.

[abovexhorizons]

Me, fighting the urge to make a non-canon NSFW sideblog for Isa.

[abovexhorizons]

Send "Love Story with ____" for my muse's reaction on finding a romantic fanfiction about themselves paired with that character

Fill the blank with the character's name

[abovexhorizons]

"Then ensure I don't."

It was a simple enough statement, her hand still grasping the others. Isa's breath, caught in her throat, eyes gazing across the woman's face. She didn't quite understand why her face was red, only that she were embarrassed; a fact that Isa could push to get that little bit closer to what she wanted.

"I can fight, Safine; I've been fighting my entire life. A monster or two - Anjanath or not - will not be my end here. I promise."

Her voice was raised in pitch a little, trying everything she could to get Safine to submit; she wanted to help. She wanted to fight whilst she were here.

Who knew, perhaps it'd help Rika back when they'd finally reunite.

Alas, her hands were eventually empty, the knight looking at her palms, slightly dumbfounded, partly disappointed in herself; partly upset.

Her body rocked with emotion, trying to figure things out. Why wouldn't Safine accept her help? Why did Isa feel so powerless, so worthless, right now? She'd only just got here!

"I can't sit idly by, so if you wont help me..."

She'd turned for the door, powerful strides taken, hand gripping the hilt of her sword; there was only a brief glance behind her before the door was swung open, the blonde preparing to step outside.

"Then I'll go help myself. I appreciate what you've done for me."

The door was closed behind her; despite the tone the knight held, she still gave proper respect for the building she were in; though, now, if she planned to go prove herself, she'd need to get out of Astera.

There was a gate near the blacksmiths, right? She'd seen other hunters leaving through it. That would be the best way for her to sneak out. She'd slay something - hopefully this Anjanath that Safine brought up - and would return with its head to show she weren't just a trophy.

She'd take off in a run, body kept low to avoid anyone that could possibly want to stop her; feet carrying the woman towards the exit and out, stumbling from wooden planks to dirt path.

It didn't take long for her to get lost, any landmarks completely lost; across a small river, around a corner, past a hive full of bees, and now...

A small opening, trees on all sides. Something aggressive, growling out to her side; yellow and small, but enough of a threat to her that she'd draw her weapon.

"I recognize the pattern from that book... Jaggras, right?"

Her words were spoken to herself, sword unsheathed and twirled around lightly to get ready; both hands, holding it steady. A swift strike at it should have dropped the creature, but instead it'd merely howl; more of its kin surrounding the knight.

It seemed that she'd really have to get her sword in it's jugular before it'd go down; so that was her plan of action.

It'd taken her a little longer than expected; blood dripped down her brow, sweat from the rest of her body. Her sword, held ever so shakily in front of her, yet the corpse of a single Jaggi rest below her feet.

Thump. Thump.

It were as if the entire world was shaking; something much larger was heading her way, the knight both psyching herself up - she could do this, she was tough - and demoralizing herself - there was no way she'd be able to handle anything bigger! - at the same time.

It wasn't until the beast crashed through the treeline, a roar only akin to a dinosaur, flames spewing from its mouth did Isa jump backwards, stumbling over a tree branch, landing on her ass. Her sword, lightly grasped in her hand.

Her trophy, splattered underneath the claws of this monster. It's back, adorned with wings, its maw lined with teeth sharper than any weapon.

Whatever this was, Isa was sure it were some kind of boss; a large monster that, if she took it down, would earn her Safine's respect.

Why her mind wandered back to the woman, Isa wasn't sure; why she wanted her respect even more of a mystery. For now, though, Isa's heart thumped with rage, angry that she lost her one piece of evidence of her skill.

Then, it happened; it turned its attention down to her, golden eyes glowing as they turned into draconian slits, time slowing down for a second--

"DODGE!"

Her words echoed out as she'd throw herself to the ground, sword left behind as she'd avoid the flames spewed from its mouth; if it caught her, that was it. Game over.

She'd look down at her hand, noticing the loss of her weapon; that was fine. She was taught not to panic, to not back down, to re-assess and obtain her sword again.

It only took a single step forwards before its head crashed down atop her, flinging her into a nearby tree. The knight, promptly knocked out from the impact, slumping to the ground. Blood pooled down out of her mouth, eyes closed.

Whatever happened next, Isa didn't know.

"B- Wha-?? HUH??!"

Any previous air of authority and control went screaming out the window the exact moment Isa took hold of Safine's hands, soulfully gazing into her gorgeous sapphire eyes. In an instant Safine's knees buckled, struggling to keep her standing straight, a bright red flush spread over her face, and her hands (her entire body, even) began to shake in Isa's hold like a leaf in a hurricane.

Safine wanted to yank her hands away at record speed, to try to regain some semblance of appearing large and in charge.

She failed miserably.

After clearing her throat a little too loudly, and now screaming, "I CAN'T DO THAT! No!!! Certainly not!!! ABSOLUTELY not!!!!"

Safine took a desperate step back (her hands still held by Isa). Avoided eye contact. Wiped away some sweat. Her breathing became laboured.

"What's going on?!" she thought, mentally fanning herself. "Why am I suddenly feeling this way!?"

"D- Do you ha- have any idea??" Safine stammered, still visibly struggling. "How bad that would make me look if- if you got yourself mauled by, what, an Anjanath?! How bad that would make the Commission look??!"

No matter what Safine tried to do to calm down, she only flustered herself more and more. Her reddening face had become a curtain of sweat. She then shook her head vigorously.

"NO!! You are MY re- responsibility!"

"... Uh, meow-ster?"

Safine whipped her head, so fast that any normal person would have snapped their own neck, to her housekeeper who had just returned with her bedroll. Vibrissa, unsurprisingly, did not appear particularly impressed.

Some may have believed that Safine's face could not get any redder. They would be wrong.

Somehow, someway, her entire face was now a deep shade of red, similar to a tomato, and even her ears took on a similar shade. At last Safine snatched her hands away from Isa's grip, eyes still locked with Vibrissa's dispassionate gaze, and she held up her hands as if threatened at gunpoint.

What an embarrassing predicament...

[abovexhorizons]

"Hello, Virbissa."

Isa wouldn't help but laugh at the cats strange mannerisms, it's clear discomfort with being held almost palpable. Isa would, normally, move to give a creature like this a pat on the head, though figured against it this time.

The explanation, frankly, blew her mind; strange creatures that people captured? People tamed? Did such a method for taming such large beasts truly exist?

The book was more than just skimmed through, some pages outright absorbed, her eyes scanning every detail, every word, every blot of ink on the page. It was fantastic, whoever had designed this.

"These Pokemon sound like wild beasts, and yet... If they're so dangerous, is taming them truly the best thing for survival? If they get so territorial, is it not better to just-- ensure the safety of your people first?"

She'd cock her head to the side, genuine in her question. Whatever they were doing worked thus far, it seemed. The gemstone was pretty, she'd give her that, but would it really work...

Just like that?

"I think I'd make a better hunter than tamer, truth be told, but I'd be happy to give either a go. I can swing a sword, but I'd need training; typically, how long does one study to become a hunter or rider?"

The question was more posed to herself though said out loud, fingers still flicking through the book until she got to the end, almost disappointed that she'd be loosing the vivid pictures and artwork.

Handing it back towards Safine, she'd give the other a smile, still focused on helping any way she could. If this was the price she'd have to pay to help, that's what she'd do.

"I refuse to be dead weight; so please, help me help you. I've only been here a few minutes, I understand that; as well as the leap of faith I'm asking you to take. But it's my life I'm gambling with here, not yours."

She'd take a step forwards, wanting to make sure her intent was getting across.

"If I die, that's on me; an outsider that overplayed her part. But I want to help, I want to do something, whilst I'm here. I am a Knight, and part of that duty is helping whenever I can. So please, Safine..."

She'd take the taller womans hands in her own, clasping them and gazing up into her eyes as softly as she could.

"Train me, and let me help."

"That's... a Felyne."

Another curt answer, though this one also stemmed from confusion. Both Safine and her Housekeeper looked at Isa as if the latter had grown a new head, making it obvious that Isa's unfamiliarity with Venalos' resident cat-folk was a very odd thing for locals to behold.

Safine leaned over to pick the Felyne up, hooking her hands under their armpits, holding them like a person would an actual cat to present them to Isa.

"Specifically, their name is Vibrissa! Say hi, Vibrissa~!"

The so-called Vibrissa grimaced, both at Isa and at being held like a kitten. Mostly at Isa, though, as they were not overly keen on the idea of tending to anyone's needs save for Safine, their one true 'meow-ster'.

"... Hi," Vibrissa murmured.

Safine set Vibrissa back down (who shot Isa one more scowl before leaving to fetch Safine's bedroll), back to the matter at hand. She took on a more serious expression, hands on her hips and standing tall, and suddenly she had an aura every bit as authoritative as the Commander's.

"Hunters and Riders are people tasked with fighting Pokémon. I think it's fair to say that you're also not familiar with what Pokémon are, so let me explain."

She twisted to dig her hand into her bag, rummaging around for a moment, before pulling out a fairly sizeable, albeit untitled, journal. She held it out in one smooth, firm motion, expecting Isa to take it and at the very least skim through.

If Isa did, she would find it filled to the brim with drawings and information referring to all sorts of beasts she likely would not have even dreamed of. There were some that had rather simple appearances, more like overgrown lizards, while others appeared as if they had come from some primordial period in time. Others looked distinctly draconic, with broad wings and vicious talons, while there were even some that looked distinctly mammalian. There were even some colossal invertebrates peppered here and there.

"Long story short, Pokémon are typically large, mysterious, and very dangerous creatures. Hunters and Riders are both tasked with slaying or capturing them, depending on which is more appropriate to the situation at hand."

Safine paused as to not ramble, giving Isa a moment to absorb all of this new information.

Then, continuing, "Riders are different in that they're capable of taming Pokémon with Kinship Stones--" she held out her left arm, showing off some kind of round, grey stone embedded with a blue gem "--which can transfer a person's intent towards a Pokémon and calm it."

Safine pulled her arm back to her side, her expression still serious yet slowly turning more grave. "Otherwise, Pokémon are dangerous. If one feels threatened, hungry, or is simply territorial, it will not hesitate to go in for the kill."

[abovexhorizons]

"We've been through enough; your lifestyle, it seems, isn't so different from ours."

She'd laugh, eyes closed; and suddenly Isa was snoring, the mental and physical exhaustion catching up to her from today's events. She didn't even manage to properly disrobe herself, her body still clad in the selfsame armor she'd worn escaping.

Her chest would rise and fall slowly, breathing slowing down as she'd rest; Rika, who was on the other bed, moved to her friends side, resting her head against the other.

Isa had no idea what Ragna was going to do; her body, twitching in its dream-like state. For once, she'd have a nice night; or so she'd expected, before her brain turned pleasant dreams into a nightmare.

She'd awoke with a start, breahing heavily, eyes darting around the room for danger; just what had she been dreaming about? She already couldn't recall it, the events wiped from memory, but she knew it were bad.

Likely as bad as her reoccuring nightmare of her father finding them.

With a small pat to Rika's head, she'd head out to find Ragna; they might as well eat together, if he hadn't already.

A knock at his partition, the Knight awaiting his response.

"We're going to the mess hall to eat, Ragna; would you like to join us?"

Oh, he was not intrusive, he liked to mind his own business, but there simply was no way he wouldn't help them get the best they could, why not do something good with his status? As long as he knew the place had no bad track record or dirt, he'd always pay for the service proper without fail. And in much

He could already overhear the persons insisting: It was a personal request from the Grim Reaper for someone else, of course they would not dare bring anything but their best, so she could expect something even better than what she was expecting maintenance and material wise as a whole.

The smack on his shoulder was barely felt, unsurprisingly. Still, he easily understood what it meant and it was time to move, he did know exactly what kind of lodging he wanted to get for them for at least one night.

The best room in the place, but as it was, it had two rooms nicely divided by a wall that one could barely see the shadows of from the other side, could only be opened by the other end properly in full to allow access... As it should be for logical privacy. They both had their room, he had his, they had a private hot spring bath all to themselves... To say they were in quite the degree of commodity was putting it lightly.

...And she beat him to it, but not only she would find triple the money in her pockets soon, also the place would be paid the same amount for as long as they remained her per day as it should be done.

"Huh? You think I intimidated them?" That got his attention, "If I actually want to do that or outright threaten, then you would have seen a much different thing. How they choose to react to me is their choice, I'm asking for service and trying to be like a normal human being, but... My reputation is what it is." He couldn't help but shrug, his ultimate annoyance at it was as real as it got.

"I know you don't need my help, but I can tell you're kinda struggling, so if I can make it just a bit better... I rather do it." His tone far more serious saying that, but not because he was getting mad or anything of the sort, he simply wanted to make it clear.

When the other one interjected, he appreciated it, seem that kind of topic would be shelved again for the time being unless either of them decided to bring it up formally; anything about him in general.

"...For now, do as you wish. Literally." The white haired male replied formally, "Grab the menu, order whatever food and drink, go take as long as you like in our bath... Pretend I'm another piece of furniture, I won't be getting in your way." Now more friendly, Ragna encouraged them, "Don't know for how long we'll be stuck together and all... So I'm not going to be dragging you both through my dirt as much as possible if you are intending to keep me around, no need to have to live as I do often enough." Never would he allow anyone to have to endure his kind of life, just for deciding they wanted him around.

With that said? He'd walk towards his room, "If you need me, I'll be here." In the finest sense: He would be out of their way, not spying on them, no nothing.

[abovexhorizons]

Would anyone like a small starter? Maybe a paragraph or so.

Trying not to feel so down atm. Got a lot of dark thoughts right now. Hoping writing will get it out.

[abovexhorizons]

@haemoxin said:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO

——-

Hehehehehehehe

She will suffer

And it will be GLORIOUS

[abovexhorizons]

I no should not be allowed access to YouTube because I will get music for the most angsty shit.

Poor Chyrie, she’s going to suffer so much.

[abovexhorizons]

The inside of the room was interesting, to say the least; the comfort of the rugs, the bed - Isa didn't dare sit down long enough, she'd fall asleep! - and the overall decor had her attention... At least, most of it.

It was this talking cat that really held it; it's little pitter-patter of paws against the wood causing Isa to cock her head. Just... What was it? It wasn't a cat, but it wasn't a human, either.

"What is this... Lost child? Cat? Kitten?"

Isa couldn't help but question it, pointing at the creature with a bewildered expression, arms folded beneath her bust, head tilted slightly as she observed.

It was a strange creature, one that she'd never seen before; even with all the large bones - and fish, the sheer color of them a varietal spectrum - they didn't compare to this living, breathing thing before her.

Isa's attention, however, was short lived as Safine continued to talk, watching the others smile fade away. It seemed getting herself a souvenir wouldn't be so easy, though that'd just give her something to do to pass the time.

"Well, what's a hunter? Or a rider, for that matter, though I was never good with horseback combat..."

She'd gone hunting in the past - many, many times - so surely this wouldn't be much different? It couldn't be, the hint was in the name. Besides, Safine was carrying a weapon no bigger than her own, so it stood to reason that if she could do it, Isa could too.

Of course, that was jumping many hurdles and hoops.

"The Commander seemed understanding; I'd be willing to talk with him, if it meant helping out whilst I'm here too. Think of it as repayment for staying here."

If it involved learning something or training, Isa was more than willing to get her sleeves rolled up and get going. She had a month; it was worth making the most of it!

"Though that but tells me it's not going to be that easy, is it Safine?"

"Who's Ragna?"

Well, that was a rather curt answer. Even though Safine had no intent of being rude in any way or form, her puzzled expression confirmed this, she could not help but to tell it as it is.

Still, Safine felt compelled to elaborate further.

"I don't know about you, but if this guy really waltzes around calling himself 'The Grim Reaper', then he sounds like trouble."

The mood had no opportunity to turn sour as the pair since approached a wooden door. The entrance to Safine's abode. Said door was opened by a Felyne housekeeper, and they mewed a greeting to Safine as they bowed.

"Welcome home, Meow-ster," the housekeeper purred. "It's good to see you again. Was your trip back to the Old World tiring?"

Safine could not help but smile again, leaning down to scratch her housekeeper's head, an action that did not go unappreciated as they gave a throaty purr at the affection.

"I'm fine," Safine replied lovingly, "it was nothing special. Anyway..."

She stood back straight again, moving a hand to present Isa to the Felyne housekeeper. "I'd like you to meet Isa! She'll be staying here until her next trip, which potentially won't be until next month."

The housekeeper's kitten eyes widened, clearly taken aback by what she had said. "Are you paw-sitive, Meow-ster? Don't tell me you'll be sleeping on the fur- I mean, floor."

Safine laughed, "Oh, it'll be fine! I can just lay out a bedroll."

Before the housekeeper could mewl their protest, Safine turned to speak to Isa again. "Regarding the equipment..."

She briefly paused to usher Isa into the room. At least she had not forgotten nor ignored Isa's request.

Stepping in, Safine's private quarters were positively cosy. A glass-less window, more like a balcony, let in plenty of fresh air and natural light, and being lined with all manners of flower pots filled with gorgeous blossoms gave the whole living space a lovely aroma as a breeze flowed in. There was even a tree right outside, growing entire branches into her space, and from one of them a large rattan ball was hung in which a colony of firefly-like insects dwelled. Under the thick branches was also a table and some chairs, and on the table some delightful refreshments were spread.

The other end of Safine's private quarters were equally comfortable, the floor covered in carpets with lovely patterns that felt good to stand on. Her bed was large enough to fit two, perhaps three people, and touching the mattress would reveal it to be very soft. The walls were adorned with all manner of trinkets, from maps to small trophies, curiosities, even some gear such as ropes. Over her bed the skeleton of some incredibly large fish was hung, a species Isa would most likely not be familiar with. Above it all was a chandelier, lighting the room with candle-fire, and it also served as a fan as wooden blades span around.

The centrepiece, however, was the immense aquarium built into the wall next to the bed. Peering in, it would look as though the people who built this small house had carved out a piece of the ocean and put it into this aquarium, filled with corals, along with fish that looked like blade-finned herring swimming in the water column and fat, bulbous anglerfish lounging on the sand. Right before the aquarium glass was another table, on which there were various important-looking documents and journals.

If Isa had lost herself to examining the loveliness of Safine's home, Safine would put a fist to her own lips and loudly clear her throat.

"As I was saying, the weapons. I hate to say it, but..."

Safine gave a sad frown.

"Only certified Hunters and Riders are allowed to wield the weapons made in Venalos. That includes the New World and Astera. Of course, we can go down and ask the Commander for the necessary paperwork to make you into either, but..."

[abovexhorizons]

"We, uh..."

She couldn't come out and tell the other that they were on the run; it'd give all kinds of horrible impressions. But it also didn't feel right to not tell her the truth, either.

So, she had to make a gamble and pray that Alexia wasn't the inquisitive type, despite what her clothing suggested. Though if she were willing to partake in alcohol, she couldn't be that far into her studies.

"We generally only stick around for a day or so. See the sights and move on; keeps our legs fresh!"

A quick pump of her arm was given, a self-depreciating chuckle following. If only that were the truth; she'd kill for a few days rest and relaxation in some kind of resort right now.

Her last trip at the harbor wasn't nearly long enough, but her brain would never let Isa properly relax. it was why she'd started drinking at taverns, to take away the anxiety for a bit.

A terrible crux, but one that she'd afford herself, so long as it didn't interfere with getting Rika home safely.

"Truth be told, Alexia, we're looking for my friends home; it's a forest, but we... Don't quite know where. So, we're both stumblin' around from place to place to hopefully find it, and see what we can along the way!"

A little more truth leaked in, though not the whole thing, not for a first meeting like this. She, in truth, didn't know how much trust she could put in the other; though knowing she wasn't from even a neighboring region was pleasant enough.

"My... Condolences for the King, however. It's never a good feeling to loose one of the Monarchy, lest alone one that we use as a pillar of support. I'm glad you're here, though; we can all support one another, together."

"...Erm.. Its hard to say. I guess.. I hailed from a small noble house named of the Bellharts. In service of the king Lanford Haeron the IV... is what I would have like to have said. He is the late king now from what little news I can gather these days.. nor is there much of his royal highness' ruie. Last I know of, the kingdom fell in the final days of the war against the larger neighboring kingdom of Golein." She leaned back while the chair creaked from the weight shifting on the legs. Her face betraying a more somber expression, old memories recalled before she snapped out of her spell.

"An..anyways, Perhaps such news spoils the mood, thank you for your charity. Miss Isa. Maybe one day she might partake, life sometimes takes a heavy turn for others, haha." Her hand wrapping around the mug as she took a swig of it. "...I'm a simple traveler these days, wandering where the wind takes me. Sometimes working the odd job to make scraps to get by." Her clothes betraying her occupation to be something closer to a scholarly or religious order.

"How long are you staying in town then? I've... been here maybe about a week or so, so I can at least offer you some guidance on where you might need provisions or some work."

[abovexhorizons]

"Second home?"

She'd gotten a touch confused; did Safine not live here? Though, then, Isa recalled the conversation from the Commander and him talking about her just returning.

Perhaps it wasn't from the field, but from her first home? Or, perhaps, third. If someone had a second home, it was likely they had more bases to operate from.

Isa could only think of the castle she was raised in, her fathers abode the only "home" she'd ever had... And the only home she'd ever abandoned.

it depressed her to think that she left so much behind, but there was so much more for her out here. Rika needed her out here; she'd be long since dead on her own.

"Your personal quarters? No, Safine, surely; I couldn't. You need to rest there, for starters. I'd hate for people to think you're giving me special treatment, either."

She said this, but her honest thoughts was that she were glad to not have to share with others again; Isa had bunked with enough men and women in her life as a Knight that the idea of doing it again made her consider if she wanted to just sleep on the street.

A cardboard box was preferable to bunking, but it seemed that wouldn't be the case; at least, now. Safine could be happy she rejected and sent her off to camp, Isa didn't really know.

"Of course, if it's the only place with room, then I'd be a fool to turn it down! I'll need some kind of shelter!"

A quick nod, eyes glancing towards the blacksmith; the stomach was overlooked by the sheer amount of information she was taking in, the sights and sounds and smells was stimulation overload.

As they walked, though, she noticed more people with weapons; clad in leather or some form of metal, but their swords - or in some cases, an axe, or a... Horn? A lance? Just what kind of ship was he running here? - was the real attention-drawer.

"Say, Safine; where can I... Get my hands on one of those weapons? If nothing else, it'll make a fine souvenir for when I leave!"

She'd give the other a giggle, arms behind her back as they waltzed along. Well, Safine waltzed...

Isa was constantly jogging to catch up, the legs on this woman beyond belief. Was this were Ragna hailed from? He had just as long legs, and his sword was equally as large. In fact...

She was sure of it, no matter how incorrect she could be.

"Have you heard of a "Ragna, Grimn Reaper"? He's got a stride like yours, and his sword... Feels like something he'd have gotten from here. Astera... I'll have to tell Rika when I get back to the mainland!"

It put a light pep in Isa's step, moving on past the hunter to take the lead; not that she knew where to head, her only goal to hurry Safine along so she could see more and get her hands on a weapon of her own.

"Heehee, sorry~"

Safine had always been a rather excitable woman, so had Isa known her for even just a few days, the former literally breezing past everything like an actual gust of wind would have been hardly surprising. If Isa were to later ask anyone else present in Astera, they would readily confirm this to be the case.

The pair would step off onto a bridge connected to the lift system, a bridge adjacent to a roaring waterfall. Giant wheels were turned by the torrents raining from above which seemed to be what powered the lift that the people used to go up and down, as well as an even larger system of elevators used to transport various large goods up towards a... ship?

Indeed, there was an entire ship, its hull broken, suspended on top of two pillars of natural stone. Considering that goods and supplies were being transported up to marooned ship, it would seem that it was still seeing plenty of use.

Regardless, the bridge connected two sides of Astera's second level, with what appeared to be a large canteen to the left and the local smithy to the right. The clanging of metal on metal rang out in a rhythmic pattern, as Isa had heard from the trade yard, and the enticing scent of roasting meat wafted down from the canteen.

The food Isa would have had arriving to Astera would have more than likely been quite good and (exceedingly) filling, but this smell was something else. She would have most likely heard Safine's stomach growling like some kind of angered beast, yet Safine seemed to ignore it for now.

"Astera really is quite special," Safine sighed, readily agreeing with Isa's statement. "It's like a second home to me."

Safine looked out to the bustling sight for a little longer before turning around with a small huff. After all, they were not here for sight-seeing just yet.

"I'll show you to my quarters. You can stay there until it's your time to go. Trust me, it beats having to share a single room with a dozen other people."

The bridge also featured a large wooden arch, with another bridge connecting it to various houses built along the cliff that were protected from the waterfall by a rocky overhang.

[abovexhorizons]

There was an awkward moment where Isa would wave - unsure of how to address those around her - before tuning back into Matthew's words, her attention peaking at his instructions.

"Got it."

Short and sweet; that was all she needed. With the place still so heavily packed, Isa wasn't one to sit idly by. Getting drinks for those that needed it, running stuff back and forth; it was certainly a weird time to be on her feet, given how exhausted she was.

Which, in hindsight, she shouldn't have gone so far, so fast; one moment, she was stepping forwards, drink in hand, the next, she was face-planted in a gentlemans lap, groaning as she'd blink away drink and sweat--

His growl and grumble was enough for Isa to shoot up straight, apologizing, though it looked as if he wasn't in any mood for an apology. Not with how his arm darted out to her waist, looking to pull her closer...

Then, there was the earth-shattering scream of a man with broken bones; it'd taken her under a second to snap his arm at the elbow, his body recoiling in pain. Then the second punch was thrown, then a third, a bottle.

Isa had, inadvertently, started a bar-fight.

Biting her lip and stepping back in panic, it wasn't until she bumped into Matthew again that she'd glance up, anxiety fully set into her features, eyes darting back and forth to try and figure out what to do.

"I-I'm so sorry, M-Matthew; I think I fell asleep and I fell into his lap and then he reached for me and I just acted in self defense I think and then another guy tried to grab me and I ducked and then--"

Her chest heaved as she tried to talk, mouth full of saliva from her panic attack, trying to figure out the best thing she could do.

"I-I didn't-- mean for this! I just wanted to help... I'm sorry. Guess I'm not fantastic at that, either."

As he made his way inside, he started to head up the stairs; there was an elevator, but after his cigarette break he figured the least he could do is get a little more exercise in. "From what I've heard, it's close enough. Just more drunk people and maybe a bit more violence." he says with a slight chuckle, looking back over his shoulder.

"It's really not that bad, and I think we're through the bulk of the bad customers tonight. Should be more or less smooth sailing from here, and if we have any more problems, I'll step in."

Soon enough the two of them would make it to the lounge, with Matthew pushing the door open. The Lounge itself wasn't very large, but even so it was packed, with each table basically at capacity. The two guys behind the bar waved at him as they prepared drinks.

"Hey guys, I got us an extra hand for the night!" Matthew shouts before turning to Isa. "Alright, so, bar's over there. Beer in the fridge underneath the bar with more in the back if you need to restock, and register's up top. Got any questions, just ask, and we'll be out of here in a couple hours."

[abovexhorizons]

Isa'd begun to turn around, lips curled in frustration - he was like her older brother, always stepping in to sort out her problems - but he promptly left, just as she'd asked.

A sigh escaped dried lips, shaking her head and shrugging.

"I'm sorry about him; please, forgive us. But..."

She'd at least not rebut what he'd said, agreeing that she did want the best that she could get; they didn't disappoint, either; using part of the hilt from her broken sword they forged it anew, apologizing that it was going to take them at least 24 hours to get ready.

She didn't mind; they'd gotten here way ahead of schedule, and thus, had time to wait. Plus, Ragna was treating them to the VIP experience, wasn't he?

A girl could enjoy herself, even a little bit, in hard times.

Stepping outside, however, she'd instantly smack him on the shoulder, wordlessly leaving with a hand-wave to signal "let's go". Rika stood up, brushing herself off before trotting away, keeping up before relaxing her stride next to her human companion.

When they finally got to the inn, the room was offered free of charge; a premium suite for the three of them, though on Isa's request, Ragna was to get his own room.

She still paid the innkeep some silver, expecting Ragna to reimburse her later.

Letting weary legs crumble as she sat atop a fluffy feather duvet, she couldn't but groan out her exhaustion, turning to the only male in the room.

"What was that about, Ragna? You said you'd pay him for his services, not intimidate them! The town's petrified now. Jeez! And I didn't--"

She'd stand up - not happily, either, with how her legs groaned in response - and stride towards the taller man, poking him in the chest. He intimidated her, sure, but her problems right now outweighed that fear.

"-- Need your help with bartering, either! I had it under control, and you came barging in after I told you to wait outside."

Isa could only huff out her frustrations, hand running along the back of her neck; a small tick of anxiety, nothing more for her. She was used to keeping disorderly men in line.

"Please; I appreciate having you here. You've already made mine - our - lives so much easier. I'd hate to feel like I regret that; you're a wanted man after all. Let me handle the talking; you handle the rest, got it?"

She didn't want to seem too pushy, letting a small, awkward smile cross her lips as she'd sit back down, head rested against the wall behind her.

"Well, we're here now, that's what matters; I am shattered (and not because of my earlier vomiting, thank you!), but a good soak and some food would probably go a long way. What's your thoughts, big guy?"

They could easily unlink from him, as nobody had really seen them together extensively yet, but on one part if he could help them, he'd very much prefer that but at least he was able to get them out of danger and this far, and he hoped for more.

That said, if he really wanted to buy their friendship? Isa couldn't be more wrong. If anything, he wasn't expecting either of them to consider him a friend, not even anything remotely positive, no matter if he was doing so much for them.

What was all this? Well... Simply doing things he felt right to do. It was literally that. Nothing else.

"...Do you really think I have a use for money? And I don't mean to say that to show off." He rose yet another good point, "Of course, I still carry it around for when I need to use it and I have it to spare, I find it better to use it this way then letting the higher ups just 'reclaim it' as much as I could otherwise, from potentially dirty hands to others." Revealing the expected truth about authorities, at least sometimes and depending who went to pick up after his messes.

Sharing that as they walked along, once they spotted the smoke, sticking out among other related businesses, that had to be their clear destination right there.

"Oh, let me go in with you still, as long as Rika doesn't mind waiting? If not I'll help you place your order in and come right out." Offering, he stepped right up, and as soon as she did, when the first men inside noticed him? The entire area went silent, everyone was in disbelief, they couldn't begin to grasp the Grim Reaper had stopped by here out of nowhere, and he waved at everyone as if he was the most friendly man in the world, smiling softly...

Of course, again, if she still wanted him to wait outside, he'd only make sure of one thing.

"Give her the best damn service, yeah? That's all I want." And asking politely, everyone was on edge and ready as he was pointing to his new acquaintance.

Why did he offer to help them? She could just ask directly soon when they were at their lodgings later.

[abovexhorizons]

She'd come trotting over, eyes glancing down, her tongue clicking subconsciously out of disgust. It looked filthy, something a knight should never have to touch; yet here she was, ready to use it to defend herself.

At first, she was tender with it, holding it lightly as if ready to throw it at a moments notice; as seconds turned to minutes, however, she seemed to get more comfortable with the grip, a few practice slashes thrown at the air ahead of her to make sure that it would suffice.

"That'll have to do, Astrid. Thank you, for finding this for me."

With a nod and a light bow, it was time to set out for a place to rest properly; her short time here hadn't availed her of a proper day-to-night cycle yet, so she wasn't sure if - or when - night would roll around.

Taking a few steps forwards, it was time to head into town proper; the outskirts would afford them sanctuary for a moment, but town would be where the most defensible spots were; let alone people she could talk with, potentially get a new weapon, or better yet, find a lead.

In the distance stood a large, towering cathedral - at least, looked like one from the outside - and heavy fortifications surrounding it. Even if the insider were hostile, securing a place like that for the time being would afford them both a chance to properly regroup.

Thus, with her plan in mind, she'd point forwards to the structure in the distance; based on what she knew, it'd take a few hours of walking; if they had a mount of some kind, it'd go much faster. Not to mention how much it'd reduce their current danger by too.

"In the distance; that Cathedral. We'll make shelter there, and... Hopefully, find someone. Anyone."

Astrid dutifully follows Isa outside with slow, purposeful steps. She had been on her new quest for all of a few minutes but it had already filled her with a certain amount of purpose that she had been lacking. It filled her with a warm heaviness that gave her a more steady grip on her blade and more confident steps.

She dutifully followed Isa outside, her eyes flickering about to see if anyone had come close while she and Isa were hunkered in their hiding spot. She had already taken care of anyone nearby but it would be bad if she failed her new allegiance so soon just because she was caught neglecting her due diligence.

Seeing the area free of enemies, Astrid turns her eyes downwards. As much as she trusted her own sword, it would be bad to leave her charge unable to fend for herself. A sword, even one battered and damaged, could be the difference between Isa living and dying could be the few seconds a damaged blade could afford her.

Her head was on a swivel, her eyes flicking about to find either potential enemies or potential weapons.

Luckily for Astrid, it wasn't long before she spotted something glinting on the ground.

"Isa. Blade." She jutted her chin forward, gesturing to the fallen blade. Astrid walked over to it and picked it up from the ground where it was half imbedded. It was a dinged and dirty thing, but it looked like the core held strong still. It would last for a fight or two, enough until they could find something more suitable for her.