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dndfuckhouse · 1 year ago

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session 53 & 54 - There's a Drake In My Boot

SESSION 53- 24/9

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> 🎵 Brigade Town (Main) / Battle Chef Brigade OST

As the party split for the evening, some of them smoke up on the roofs while the majority of them go drinking bender. With Psalm at the lead of the pub crawl, trying to find where the airship crew are drinking, they hit up five different bars before finding the one they're looking for. The airship crew are set up at a dive bar near the docks, a spacious place, big enough to accommodate the vast majority of the workers.

Anton sits nearby alongside them looking cheerier than he did alone earlier. The party spend the evening jovially drinking with them before making their way back to the inn in various shades of inebriated at some point in the night.

As for Han, she makes her way to the sunite church after drinking with a very specific intention, but find no success at bedding anyone for the night. The resident heartwarder's graceful demeanor however distracts her from much of what she came there attempting, it's hard to look back on it sourly with such a caring conversation partner for the evening.

In comparison, Psalm dissapears and gets lucky with a crewman for the night, returning discretely to the inn in the morning to get breakfast.

In the morning both Han and Plum wake up with hangovers, each holding a point of exhaustion. Mars and Cimmorro sit conversing in the bar room downstairs before Cimmorro heads upstairs again to wake Keva. Everyone ambles downstairs eventually, each shelling out 3 silver for breakfast.

Han: han stumbles out of bed and thanks fuck she rooms w the vampire, grateful for the room being in complete darkness. she eats breakfast and sprawls on the table face down waiting on others Plum: plum just doesn't get out of bed for now. they are genuinely unused to being hungover. freshening up in one of the washrooms

Psalm: Psalm wakes up feeling the kind of tired one does when they stay up too late, but other than that he feels fine so he's going to go look for food Rokka: rokka will take his time getting up and washing up before heading out to grab something to eat

Keva: she's up she's up, a little more tired than she'd like bc she stayed up a little longer than cimm and vinny to get in a little writing practice, but she's uuuup… when she sees cimm already awake, she says groggily "oh fuck…. were you waiting long?" Cimmorro: he's just #chillin and probs chatting with vinny if he hasn't already head out for brekkie. "if we disregard the fact that i wake up earlier than the rest of you, nope, not at all. though you did seem to sleep in today." rooming with her for a few weeks he's already taken note of her sleeping habits. "still up to grab horses or have you changed your mind?" Keva: "no no it's fine i'll go" she says as she peels herself out of bed "i'll be quick" and as promised, she's ready to go in a jiffy Cimmorro: he blinks at her. "not having breakfast? i guess we'll make a stop at the bakery anyways, but you don't hafta trip over yourself." Keva: at the mention of breakfast she pauses, and she says "let me check on smth" as she heads to where food is served she snickers a bit seeing the results of the night's bar crawl

Han: han puts like, 12 sp down, unbothered to count it thru the headache Plum: plum eating with their head on the counter/table Psalm: Psalms looking at them and goes, (quietly) "Fun night huh?" Rokka: rokka heading over to them, lightly laughs seeing their state as he plops himself down next to them "feeling alright plummy?" Plum: at psalm, plum just mumbles with a wry smile "oh be quiet…". at rokka they make a pained face and say "no i am not. what the fuck is happening to me right now." Rokka: he laughs again, feeling a little bad for them he gently rubs plums back, "u oughta feel better after a nice meal and some water! hopefully it passes soon!!" Plum: "thanks, friend" plum mumbles, touched. they groan against the table like ughhhhhh. Psalm: he just snorts Plum: "i thought you were gonna be the one to get hungover honestly… i should've known, honestly. couldn't imagine you drunk" they make a childishly peeved expression and then take a bite of their bread Psalm: "Oh I was very drunk. Don't get me wrong. Just good at managing the aftermath I suppose."

Keva glances around the bar for something portable to snack on, and grabs three buttered bread rolls covered in cheese for her efforts.

Keva: okay she grabs three of those and offers one each to her roommates Vinny: vinny wanders out of the room idly after keva and cimmorro make their exit and makes his way to the table with the breakfast crew, hes surprised to be given one by keva but takes it regardless with a thanks and stats nibbling on it drowsily, listening in on the others Cimmorro: he's already ready to leave so he figures he just follows keva to the dining. at the sight of the others' state he makes a face that's both worried and tired, but at least there's nothing too alarming, he supposes. at keva's offer, he seems pleased as he accepts one, not bothering to mention he's already had his fill. can never go wrong with a snack anyhow. "awww thank you if you want to sit and have breakfast with the others, i don't mind. i could take a look at nearby shops while i wait." he snorts a little as he adds, "they seem like they could use your company" Keva: with a big bite of the cheesy bread already in her mouth, rounding out one of her cheeks, she snorts says a bit muffled, "if anything, i think a few of them could use less noise"

Keva makes to swipe a piece of bacon from Han's plate as she walks by, taking it effortlessly and easily.

Han: u hear hans breathing is rly mellowed out n peaceful, almost like shes passed tf out Keva: starts to make her way to the exit while keeping the bacon hidden until she's outside Cimmorro: he makes an amused hum behind her, waving to the others before following to leave

As Keva and Cimmorro head off, Cimmorro tells the group to meet up at a certain spot at a later point in time so they can converge easily, leaving the others to breakfast.

Psalm: "Morning Vinny," Psalm says jovially Vinny: he glances over with a smile "good morning, i see the pub crawl has taken its victims.." Psalm: "It was fun, you should join next time, although I suppose these two aren't exactly backing up my claims." He's watching Han sleep rn tbh Plum: at this plum just rolls over and eats something off their own plate. "vinny, i somehow missed the fact that you're a pretty big deal in the wizarding world, apparently? that's pretty cool." they say it in such a tired deadpan it almost doesn't sound like a compliment. Vinny: he laughs a little "i got drunk enough on the airship that one time, maybe if we dont try drinking games again" at plum's statement he chokes a little on his bread "wh-big deal in the wizarding world..?" Psalm: "I have to agree with you honestly. Think I'll be steering clear of those myself." Plum: they sit up more in their chair so they can access their brain more. "yeah, han was telling me you're part of that accord thing? sounds like a big deal to me…?" also at psalm and vinny talking about getting drunk they're like "yall got drunk on the airship?" Psalm: "Yes, one night with Keva and Cimmorro and Han… actually it might’ve been more than once. I kind of lost track…" because he kept accidently getting shitfaced he doesn't say Plum: "whaat that sounds fun," they say, then think for a moment. "i think?" not picking up on psalm's hiding of their getting shitfaced or anything because they don't think that hard. Vinny: "yes it was multiple times…" hes also squinting like hes trying to recall Psalm: "It was alright, I think you lot here now make for better drinking partners though. With Keva & Cimmorro, one moment we're getting along, the next I've managed to piss them off…" Plum: they say, "well thanks, i'm pleased to hear that. last night was fun even if i feel soggy as fuck," plum grins and holds their head. "and i get you, that's funny. we're less…" they wave their hands around, "complicated, i guess." Psalm: "Oh I wouldn't say it's a matter of anyone being complicated. I think they just find me boring." He shrugs Plum: "ouch," plum says. "no helping that though, probably." as in no helping their reaction smh bc aqua thought i was dissing psalm lo Psalm: "It's kind of funny so I don't mind it too much." Plum: "yeah that seems like you," plum laughs.

Vinny: he shakes his head a little "but- well yes i am a part of the accord but im a contract wizard, im not formally party of their hierarchy or anything" he scratches his head a little ruefully "but yes i suppose they are ah, well known" Plum: "oh i seee," they say tiredly. "that seems better than being part of a hierarchy, in my uninformed opinion." they take a large swig of their water. Vinny: he tilts his head a little "i did prefer it a while… but it just means they can wring about at their leisure now, and theres not much i can say in response" Plum: "so how comes you stick around?" plum asks. "i mean, if you don't mind me asking. never mind actually, don't answer?" they don't wanna seem rude because the accords seem to stress vinny out Psalm: "I want to know actually," Psalm interjects, "must be something that makes it worth it." Mars: "So how does?? the accord work actually, who gets to be in it." He recalls someone mentioning they control all magic or some such like that. Han: he turns to mars activating his teaching mode "oh, ah you make a formal application and the higher ups approve it. they usually take on contracts with wizards worldwide just to have an envoy in most areas" he thinks for a moment "they're well know because they control the arcane barrier up north in Habrin, and as such have a lot of political sway in the area. Berryl himself is a member of the Disciples of Dun'a, the guild that decides most magic law" before he gets too lost in specifics he turns to plum and psalm again with a kind of pained expression while smiling "ah. well lets just say it's against my will…" he bites his bread awkwardly again Psalm: "Well, that explains it." Mars: "So every member of the accord gets a say in what laws gets passed?" Vinny: he shakes his head "no, berryls the only member of the dun'a, but the fact hes a member speaks of his ah… political influence" Mars: "Sounds a little… skewed??" Vinny: he gives you a lopsided smile "that's why i call him a politician more than a wizard" Mars: Mars doesn't say anything to that aside from a hmm but the silva on his head mimics a gagging gesture.

Plum idly tries to recall what they know of the arcane barrier in Habrin upon its mention, even in their hangover-addled mind. The Elemental Divide, it's held in place by the berryl accord, said to have been erected by berryl himself. The barrier keeps the harsh winter climate from encroaching on the city settled in what was previously dessert land when the climate of the area began to rapidly change, alowing the city to continue functioning.

As Plum ponders this they also begin trying to put together a makeshift hangover aide for the morning, staring at Han barely functioning asleep on the table.

Psalm: Psalms gonna poke han lightly in the shoulder, "Are you actually asleep?" Han: she jumps up to sit straight, eyes still closed "im up" Psalm: "Of course you are." Rokka: laughing at han (endeared) Han: she nods seriously but her posture starts to sag back towards the tabletop Plum: "here han, drink some of this," they nudge han with the cup. it looks like gravel but liquid and also smells like it Han: han cracks one eye open and leans in more to sniff it "is this.. rocks?" Plum: "no, although it looks like them. but it's for your hangover." Han: han stares at the drink, then gives a withering look to plum, then shrugs and chugs it Mars: He wasn't going to say anything but he really. can't help it. "That's foul." hes flabbergasted Plum: "yeah, it's why i don't ever get hungover honestly." Mars: "What'd you put in there…" Plum: "i put a type of fungus in there that makes it all grey and weird-smelling, but that's what does most of the re-hydrating. there's some other stuff in there to make the base like honey..water, etc." also it's only when the bird on mars' head reacts to what vinny said does plum realise a bird is even there?? "what's with the bird..?" they ask.

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> 🎵 Ocarina of Time: Forest Temple - OCRemix / Andrew De Lange

As the group in the inn continue to chatter, Keva and Cimmorro approach the grandeur of the main home church of Wee Jas, The Weary Rest as its known to other temples. It makes itself easily visible even amongst the city’s cluttered skyline. Three tall black spires that reach high into the sky, connected by a series of bridges between them stand tall in the distance, and as they approach grow ever bigger. As they reach the street it lays upon they note the ground around is cobbled in black stone, and various icons and carvings of wee jas decorate the surrounding buildings. Large black iron fences run on the street surrounding the perimeter at the temple's base, opening to large open gates with magically lit lanterns on its edges.

The temple dwarfs the two in size, it's hard to guess just how many floors it could contain but they'd assume anything close to eighty or higher. They see various acolytes and lay worshippers coming and going through one of the larger spires gargantuan and lavishly decorated entrances as they visit to pray and conduct services. They spot a couple of sisters milling around the entrance greeting visitors of all sorts.

Keva: as they get closer to the temple, keva starts to feel a little antsy. she thinks to brush breadcrumbs off and wipe off the bacon oil from her fingers and glances about everywhere, like on high alert Cimmorro: he's been admiring the architecture as they approach the temple, not noticing much of keva's nervousness. once there, he casually walks up to the sisters at the entrance and greeting them with a cheerful "hiii~ good morning party people :3" Jasidan: one of the sisters turns to you and politely bows upon recognising your uniform "oh! hello there brother, here to join the morning service?" Cimmorro: "i'd love to! though i'm afraid i can't stay for long and have business to do, aiyayaya… i'd like to place an offering before i leave at least" he puts his hands together maya fey style. "the altar is in the same place, yes? you guys didn't drastically renovate recently, did you?" he jokes a little. Jasidan: she smiles and laughs a little "yes the main altar is still there! though the high priest has been thinking about redoing a few floors of the third tower…" she taps a finger to her chin in thought as she gestures with her hand "you're free to go as you like brother" she gives another polite bow Cimmorro: "ah, is that so? sounds like some fun gossip to keep my ears open on then. thank you~" he bows back and gestures for keva to come follow but when he makes a step forward, he halts and turns almost comically. "ah- one more thing, who's in charge of the horses around here?" Keva: keva almost fails to hide the alarm in her face, not expecting to have to go inside, so she's grateful cimm's given his attention back to the sister, giving her enough time to recompose herself Jasidan: she blinks and thinks for a moment "oh hm… should be sister anin today, you'll see her by the stables" she points behind her in the direction of one of the towers Cimmorro: "wonderful! thanks again and may the goddess grace you~" he makes a more theatrical bow this time and looks at keva expectantly, ready to head inside. Keva: keva thinks to ask to get the horses first so she can stay outside with them, but then he'd ask questions since it makes more sense the make the offering first… he'd probably still insist if she asked to simply wait until he's done so they can get the horses, and she doesn't want to explain her complicated feelings on the topic of wee jas to a devotee… the thoughts fly thru her mind quickly, making her hesitate for just the briefest moment, but in the end she simply decides to put on her big girl pants

The two make their way inside, the ground floor is larger than that of Cimmorro's home church, filled with plenty of acolytes and worshippers coming and going amongst the black stone walls. They head through the tall rooms until they reach a grand prayer room, with an altar at its canter, bracketed by magical braziers and beautifully inlaid ruby gemstones. Cimmorro knows this room is set aside specifically for priests and the like to give prayers towards the goddess, they see a few acolytes doing their own morning prayers in fact.

Cimmorro: as they continue to wander farther into the temple cimm's just been in a jovial mood and greeting people left and right. too immersed and in his zone to notice any other thing, even if this temple isn't exactly the same as the one at home, it is wee jas' all the same. if anything it just makes him more excited about arriving home, bakaldor temple being proof that he's closer to home than the past few years. as they arrive outside the prayer room he asks keva to give him a few minutes before entering it himself Han: keva doesn't follow cimm to the altar, instead sticking close to the exit and somewhat out of view and chewing on a thumb as she looks about Cimmorro: from his bag, he procures a collection of small gemstones (most of his gemstones, apart from a ruby he decides to save for coralwash) gingerly wrapped in black lace and a ribbon to finish then grabbing a black candlestick next as he finds a pleasant spot in the altar to lay his offering. he begins his prayers by lighting the candle with magical fire. he prays in infernal, along the lines of 'i'm home' among other things

As Cimmorro prays he feels a calming presence come over him, like that of a mothers warm hug.

Cimmorro: after like 10 mins he finally walks out of the room (bc he looks like he's done until he goes back to praying like, "and another thing-- (affectionate)" for like 4 times before he's finally content) looking refreshed and goes back to where he left keva with a smile. he doesn't say much, simply grateful she waited. "you good?" he laughs a little, seeing her tense state. Keva: keva been making herself as small and unnoticeable as she can while still standing upright and unwilling to touch anything other than her feet to the ground. she tries not to make her relief too visible when cimm meets back up with her. "yeah, fine" she deflects as casually the best she can "ready to go?" Cimmorro: he sighs. this is hardly the time to scrutinize her demeanor or her comments from last night, even if it does bother him. "yes, yes. let's go before you turn yourself inside out." he begins to walk again, though he takes a few pauses here and there to observe the others mill about, much like a cat. he especially seems to enjoy watching a few minutes of the morning service before continuing their way to where sister anin is

As the two head out the opposite end of the tower they come to a section of black cobbled ground between the three buildings, carefully maintained. As they split off to the side they spy a set of stables, maintained by acolytes in less lavish working attire, each horses coat shines a glossy black under the clear sunlight as they approach. They spy an older woman in red trimmed robes that indicates to Cimmorro that shes the one in charge of the area.

Cimmorro: he greets her the same way as he did the others. "hellooooo are you sister anin?" Anin: the woman glances over from her work and takes in your attire and smiles "that i am, visiting from another temple? don't think i've seen you 'round" Cimmorro: "yes i am!" he makes a funny little pose to make a show of himself. "i, cimmorro, hail from her grace's temple in coralwash!" then in a more normal tone, "i haven't been around the city for a few years and am about to make my way back home, actually. it's why i come seeking your presence, hoping you'd hear my humble request :3?" Anin: she smiles amused but nods her head in recognition "aye, the temple out north? lovely little place, and what grand request might that be brother?" Cimmorro: he nods. "yes ahm," suddenly feeling sheepish now, not really fond of asking things from the church. "see, my party and i have a quest to journey through the swamps inland towards antessa. i was hoping you'd have horses here i could take off of your hands? preferably ones that are built for that kind of terrain." Anin: she nods in recognition "ahh i gotcha, taking care of much business for the lady out there?" she walks off a little after she asks the question as if to look for the specific horses she has in mind for his request Cimmorro: "always," he says with pride. "some things i wasn't expecting to encounter, and yet, here i am, travelling to vargonia… but if her grace wills it so!" he follows her curiously but also slowly as if to not intrude whatever her thought process is… trust in the horse lady's judgment "how fares the weary rest these days? is her grand mother in the house today?" Anin: the woman begins corralling a few horses she has in mind, sadeling and preparing them to be taken off by him and keva for their travels "hah, always a good thing to hear, may the ladys eye follow you" as for the question she thinks "hmm, as good as she ever does, though some of the upper levels are starting to look a little dingy, couple of the high priests are working on it. the grand mothers away on a bit o' business though, might be why theyre occupying themselves with renovations of all things" she laughs a little amused Cimmorro: "ah! i've heard talks about renovation. hopefully, nothing too concerning… is it just the old wear and tear?" Anin: she nods her had, adjusting their saddles "yeah, temple as old and big as this one requires quite a bit of maintenance to keep looking as good as she does for the lady upstairs… i sweep these stables everyday myself to be spick and span" she gives cimm a toothy grin as she finally leads the horses out to you, a pair of large black steeds, glossy fur and dark leather sadles and leads sit on their backs as they eye the two of you newcomers

Keva: keva gingerly takes the reins to one, giving a small polite thank you to anin, and gently places her hand on the horse's muzzle and says a quiet "hello" in greeting Ratnaraj: the horse stares at you, huffing from its nose as it takes your presence in, it seems to be at ease with you, flicking its tail a little as your place your hand upon it Cimmorro: cimm nods understandingly and enthusiastically. maya nodding gif. at her comment about the stables he goes, "and it's absolutely spotless" chef finger kiss mwah "just as how these horses are gorgeous! what are their names?" Anin: the woman smiles as she points at the one in keva's hand "that one's ratnaraj, hes a calm old boy and this one…" she hands the reins of the other horse to cimmorro "is called ruber, hardy old lady she is, they'll get you across without worry" Cimmorro: "aha, the double r, dynamic duo…!" he gratefully takes the reins from her as he introduces himself to the new companions. "pleasure to meet you two, and you as well sister anin. rest assured we'll care for them as best as we can." Anin: she nods her head "make sure when you drop 'em off at another temple you send me a letter, i like to know where my kids go heh…" she folds her arms with a smile "lady be with them and you brother" Keva: keva stops petting ratnaraj's face to give a small wave goodbye to sister anin Cimmorro: "you have my word!" he gives her a mock salute and smiles back. "and to you too sister, i'll keep you in my prayers."

Ruber: as cimmorro takes hold of the horse it sidles up to him friendly, muzzling your head with its own a little Cimmorro: cimm was kinda looking longingly towards the tower bc he wants to wander about but ruber takes him by surprise but he nuzzles his head back too. "you are a good girl huh? i'll be counting on youuu" he gives her some pets and introduces jasper to both the horses as well

The two get ready to depart, Cimmorro bringing up that he still wanted to browse stores on the walk back to the others.

Keva: "always with the shopping" keva mumbles as she grabs the saddle and pulls herself onto ratnaraj "do you have anything in mind?" she continues, looking to Cimmorro Cimmorro: he rolls his eyes at the mumbling. he doesn't immediately get on ruber but instead places jasper on her back with the rest of their items. "nothing in particular, just browsing. always something interesting to find around these parts. most of the time useful." Keva: "'most of the time'" she snorts "well, lead the way, tour guide" Cimmorro: he gives her a look before turning his head towards the road, walking and leading them again. "you seem like you got no plans resupplying for yourself. if that's the case, i'm not quite sure if i should be impressed by the confidence or concerned for the recklessness...?" he questions with a tilt of his head. Keva: she just shrugs, "just not much of a shopper" more of a 'make what you have stretch as thin as possible before you have to replace it and then when you have to replace it ask yourself if you really need it right now-er'. or a thief, if the opportunity presents itself. "i'll be honest though, i thought you were planning on just buying more clothes rather supplies" Cimmorro: "i'll be sure to warn you from now on," he lightheartedly counters. "besides, is it such a crime to do both? not like my preferred tailor is around here anyway, so you need not to worry." Keva: "do whatever you like. it's your tour." she peers around as the city ambles by, enjoying the sea breeze. "how often do you come here, anyway?" Cimmorro: "mm, occasionally. once a month or two usually. though if the main temple needs extra hands then i'm around more often. either that or i have a date," he openly shares as he quickly scans through shop displays. "i don't like staying around too long though. not fond of the, erm, natural violence here." Keva: "no?" she laughs a bit "i think it's rather entertaining. lively, you could say. reminds me just a little of home--always something going on." Cimmorro: "eugh," a grimace. "no thanks. i'd rather have the lively kind that doesn't have ale spilled on my clothes-- actually that's uncommon. usually it's blood from fights i'm not even involved in!" Keva: "seems like more of a you problem if you're close enough to get blood on you" she says jokingly "you've never seen a fight and bet on who would win?" Cimmorro: he snorts. "evidence that you've not been here long enough. trust me when i say the stupidest fights break out even when you're just trying to get in line for a brew of coffee. and no, not a hobby of mine, really. good to know that about you though." Keva: "a gamble here and there makes for good fun, especially when it comes with a show" Cimmorro: "you and i have very different ideas of fun. after the show is all said and done, it'll be either i or another healer's problem to deal with. though i can't deny some people like to make bank here that way." Keva: keva gestures like 'see?' at this point she's just amusing herself contradicting him. "think of it this way, you'll never be out of a job" Cimmorro: he looks disgusted by the idea. "i believe there's a more fulfilling use of my time than to treat people who wantonly get into halfwitted fights. you, on the other hand, if that's what you want to do after all i've taught you then that's none of my business." Keva: she gives a half-hearted half-shrug "if it strikes my fancy. anything striking yours so far?" she juts her chin out a bit at the small shops Cimmorro: "hmm, clothes, clothes, and more clothes," said in a tone that's humorously goading her. "although that one looks more enticing than the rest," he points towards a peculiar shoe store across the street. "i don't remember that being here."

The two approach an older half-orc man staring intently as a pair of leather boots in hand, turning them around this way and that. As they glance around his neatly maintained market stall you they spy a variety of tools, shoe soles, and oils situated around the place.

Keva: keva can't help but smirk a bit that they will, in the end, be shopping for clothes. she does her best to hide it though while she gets off her horse and leads him to just outside the shop. she peers in thru the display only to recoil at the price tags "what the fuck?" Cimmorro: she can hear cimm gasp softly in delight beside her when he realizes where they are. "they're enchanted!!" Keva: 'they're shoes' is what she wants to say, but she's wearing an enchanted pair of boots herself that serve her rather well, so who is she to object. she still makes a face as they head in though lol, Rattan: “Hm… The runes are a little faded on this pair… D'ya need a patch up?" Keva: she puts on an air of politeness when the shopkeep greets them

After they have a few casual banters in the shoe store about each other's way of dressing, they take a moment to have a breather on some benches before regrouping with the others.

Keva: keva stretches out her legs for a moment before she reaches back to fish out a wriggling amos from her hood. "alright alright i know," she says as she unleashes him on the bench to scurry around and have a stretch himself. she watches him crawl underneath the bench and wonders to herself how she's going to feed him while they're on the go... which then reminds her of the cake they're lugging around. she grabs their baked goods and places it between her and Cimmorro, lightly pushing it closer to him as if to say 'here' Cimmorro: cimm settles both of the horses just by their side before sitting down, jasper following suit as she hops off ruber and eventually mirroring amos' energy as they run about. he takes a moment to simply enjoy the morning sunlight getting warmer as the day ripens until keva slides their previously purchased treats. with a smile, he starts to unpack the cakes but stops just before he gets to keva's to look up at her. "or do you want to try the donuts first?" Keva: keva just shrugs "doesn't really matter. might as well eat the cake though--i already started after all" she smirks a bit Cimmorro: "ah," he frowns at being reminded of her earlier transgressions. "i'll let you off the hook mostly cause, well, it's better than having the frosting melt off. it's getting warmer out here and we're still a blocks away from the inn... consider yourself spared!" he says decisively. "you can have donuts with the others later." Keva: it's funny looking at their two slices next to each other, one having clearly been tampered with and lost some of its intended shape while the other remains relatively tidy and neat. ah well, it'll all look the same in their stomachs. keva reaches for hers and dips another finger into the cream, raising the dollop like she's giving a toast and says "happy birthday," before cleaning it off and properly using a fork i'm pretending the baker included Cimmorro: another groan leaves him when she continues to play with her food for the nth time before deciding to focus on his own. "yeah, yeah. using me for your own gain...! you better have something for me on my actual birthday," he sneers. he scoops a small amount of cream for jasper to sniff and lick at the end of his fork which only interests her for a miniscule amount of time before she goes back to chasing amos and vice versa. Keva: light cream, soft sponge, and fresh fruit... while she isn't one for sweets, they're such a rare treat (at least, until recently) that she can't help but relish them anyway. "what, are we friends now?" she scoffs a bit in between bites Cimmorro: "you're the one who seems soooo eager to celebrate my birthday when you don't even know when it is," followed by a blehhhh and a bite on a forkful of cake. Keva: "you've never lied about your birthday to try and get something for free?" she says with a bit of disbelief Cimmorro: he gives her a bit of a wild look. "no?! especially not to people who're making an honest living!" he huffs lightly as if a little offended. "i'll haggle their ears off, sure, but that's it!" Keva: keva snorts, rolling her eyes in a 'well, excuse me' way. "bah, doesn't work too well once you've lost the baby cheeks anyway." she shovels in another mouthful of cake, eating quickly as she always does. after a moment of quiet chewing, she says, "well, out with it. are you going to tell me your birthday or not?"

Cimmorro: "oh, now you want my birthday?" he snickers to himself, amused. "it's still a long ways off, but maybe you could guess it. i'm sure you can read my [whatever the fantasy version of the zodiac signs are]" Keva: "when it's all a load of bullshit?" she scoffs before eating one of her last bites of cake, and guesses with her mouth full, "i don't know, maybe sometime in aestas?" Cimmorro: he rolls his eyes in slight amusement when she scoffs. when she makes a guess under a different category, he continues to be entertained. "you know, i get that a lot! but nope! though... maybe aestas is different for you, now that i think about it..." Keva: keva squints, trying to work out how that works for a few seconds, and then just groans. "forget it," eating the last bit of cake and already digging around for a donut Cimmorro: he whines a small 'nooooo' when keva seems to give up playing, trying to stop her from getting a donut. "guess it another way instead! the months!!" Keva: how does he try to stop her lol Cimmorro: just kinda shielding the bags with his hands Keva: she tsks when he block her way, slouching and hands falling limply to the bench with the softest knock on her knuckles. and after paid for them! "fine, is it in hibernon then?" Cimmorro: "aha," feeling triumphant that she continues to guess. "no, but you're getting closer!" Keva: there's only rahtumna left, of course, but her mind instead focuses on the opening cimm's now left as he lowers his guard, thinking he's gotten his way. her hand slips in and out of the bag so quikcly the bag nearly comes with it as she pulls back. keva doesn't stop to gloat either, stuffing the donut between her teeth so he won't take it back.

Cimmorro: he makes a sound that's both of surprise and irritation, followed by the click of his tongue, sharp as she shoves the donut in her mouth. "you sneaky little-- that's twice you've broken your promise now! i let you off last time!" Keva: "what promise? i didn't agree to anything!" she says after pulling the donut away, of course still leaving the bite in her mouth and stored in a cheek. "foloris, then?" returning to guessing as she chews like nothing happened Cimmorro: he gasps dramatically. "the nerve of you to forget--! i asked you not to snatch anything from me in exchange for the dress and everything else!! but within the same week..." a small growl before he continues, "you've taken my strawberries, and now my donuts!! no! not foloris!" he hmphs as he puts the bag on the opposite side of him, away from her. Keva: "ah." she did forget about that. old habits truly do die hard, but who can blame her? it's been her way of life since she can remember. "i paid for those donuts, so they're technically mine," she only half-jokingly points out. "i will give you the strawberry incident though. that was my bad," putting her hands up like she surrenders. "though maybe it's on you that you trusted a thief." Cimmorro: "you bought them as a treat for ME after you stole MY strawberries in the first place!" he continues to moot with a halfhearted hiss. "ugh," he pouts, but it's clear he's pretending to be more offended than he actually is "well i'm saaaaawry (mocking voice) if i was blinded by your heroic deeds the past few weeks thinking there was some integrity in you, tch! enjoy the donut!" Keva: "you know what they say, all that glitters isn't gold," she says smugly as she takes another bite. "umbrois?" Cimmorro: he rolls his eyes in a way that he looks up exasperatingly, thinking to himself that she sure talks like she wants to be cool and distant when he's seen enough from her at this point that she's obviously softhearted. at this point he merely thinks it's funny she still keeps trying to act like this as if she wasn't so worried about angering him just yesterday for decking him in the face. but he decides to keep those thoughts to himself before she leaves his face a concave mess on purpose. "55th." Keva: she makes a "hnnh" sound like she wasn't expecting that. "well, no promises. we'll see if we haven't settled this barvotte business by then." she says the noble house name like spit. actually, her words makes her realize the time she has to learn to read is limited as well, and the thoughts slow her chewing down. augh... Cimmorro: he snorts at the attitude. "don't let finnian hear you like that." he begins to pluck a donut for himself and looks at her expectantly after taking a bite (not until he savors it first) and with a raised brow he goes, "well?"| Keva: she turns a bit to look at him confused. "'well' what?"

Cimmorro: "your birthday" like duh Keva: she turns back to look straight on "none of your business!" Cimmorro: "what!" the genuine shock at the audacity. "that's not fair!" Keva: "hmm!" she says with her donut in her mouth. "what did i just say about trusting thieves?" Cimmorro: "you are soooooooo aggravating sometimes, you know?" he growls. "maybe it's less about you being a thief and more of you just wanting to piss me off." Keva: "could be both," she flashes an innocent (enough) smile, not showing any teeth as usual, before it falls away. "s'not information worth knowing anyway. and i'm not shit-talking myself, before you attempt comfort or whatever. it's just not good information." she says the last bit a little softer than the rest, and her tone suggests she means it seriously but won't explain anymore. Cimmorro: he studies her and finds himself wanting to understand because it's clear on his face that he doesn't. at all. it's just a fuckin birthday for crying out loud. why does she have to be complicated about it?! maybe if they were set in the future where you'd need someone's birthday to confirm their identity for their social security number then sure! but they're not!!! he lets out a sigh that's also half-blowing raspberries. "whatever. i'll just make up a birthday of yours in my head," he says flatly before taking another bite of his pastry. Keva: keva looks up and turns to him as he says that, a little wide eyed like in recognition. it's getting a little scary now, the similarities between cimmorro and someone else she knew. it softens her a bit, and after a moment, she relents, "i don't know my real birthday," pushing the last bit of donut into her mouth, "so you'd just be giving me another fake one" Cimmorro: when keva speaks up, his eyes grow wide and his chewing slows down but he stays still despite it al, looking off into a distance while she goes on, processing her words. 'what?' is all that goes through his mind until he momentarily forgets he was supposed to be chewing at all because the next thing she hears is him choking and coughing on the piece he had in his mouth. as his coughs stagger into almost violent fits he struggles out coughing out, "w-what the, the fuck do you mean? shit-!" as he slams his fist on his chest. Keva: at first, she thinks cimmorro’s just doing his usual theatrics. but when she spots his eyes watering she sits up “oh. OH, you’re actually—” and after a moment of hesitation and hovering she balls up her fist to hit him square between the shoulder blades to get him to cough Cimmorro: it takes a moment and another set of coughing but he does recover after keva's help. clearing his throat and catching his breath, he goes, "are you going to explain that or am i just going to have to accept how that nearly killed me?" he rubs at his own eyes as he sits up straight again. Keva: keva eyes him carefully as he recovers, even as she crosses her arms and leans back onto the bench. "don't think there's much more to explain. how do you know what day you were born?" she says, leading him to figure it out himself Cimmorro: he figures her question isn't a curious one so he turns to give her a look, to study her once more, holding a contemplative gaze. probably should've pieced it together sooner, he thinks. even with the miniscule mentions of her life in talankra, the lack of anything to come back to... small things that pile up to a bigger picture. he finds himself unsure of what to say... or rather what she wants to hear him say. does she even want to talk about this? knowing her, probably not. not out here at least, he assumes. "hm," he starts, or tries to veer the conversation back to the main point. "what's the assigned birthday then? it'd be funny if i had guessed the same thing," he smirks jokingly.

Keva: "as i said," she exaggeratedly angles her head towards him, pauses for effect, and says, "none of your business" a small smile tugs up in good humor, and perhaps a sense of relief that cimmorro didn't press for details further or try to give her condolences. she really is partly messing with him, but she also seems bent on keeping it to herself for now. "maybe you could bribe it out of orin if you want to know so badly. just know i'll take a cut." Cimmorro: "bah, no fun you are," he complains limply. "orin doesn't even seem like the type to need to be bribed. seems like the type of guy who would tell everyone it's your birthday and throw a party," he snickers but means well in his words. the guy seems too jubilant for his own good sometimes. "but, fine, if i must use my bewitching charms on him then, so i shall," he acts as if he's troubled by it before he grins and adds, "and yes, you can have a cut of that, and more if you'd like~" Keva:

she gives him that look and says snarkily with mock disgust, "careful, or the sweets i just ate might end up on your shoes" Cimmorro: "ah! you didn't specify what bribe now did you...? maybe you shouldn't be so roundabout about a birthday if you don't want me bothering him," he sticks his tongue out Keva: "oh lay off it," she says dismissively "you're the one making it a bigger deal than it needs to be" Cimmorro: "you wound me! oh," he puts both of his hands over his face and whines with boohoos. "is it not enough that i want to get to know my beloved student? sooooo mean to meeeee!" Keva: she makes a face at both the words 'beloved' and 'student,' even if the latter is the reality of things. "a birthday doesn't even tell you anything, what?" Cimmorro: "what do you mean what?! it's a birthday! next you'll tell me you don't even celebrate it." Keva: "i do, it's just--" she's not quite willing to confront the reason for her discomfort around her birthday yet, though it threatens to put a foot through the door of conscious thought. can't have the loneliness take over in broad daylight. "look, you'll know if you ever need to, and right now, you don't. ask something else," she tacks on at the end, as if to appease him.

Cimmorro: after a bit of pouting, he relents if only to avoid souring the morning. "fine. i'll ask about your studies, then. i heard you shuffling around last night," he smiles knowingly. Keva: keva blinks for a moment and, suddenly meek, she fishes out her work from the previous night and hands it over. “i forgot you’re a pretty light sleeper,” she mutters Cimmorro: "why, yes. i am pretty. thank you ☺️" he takes her parchments with care as he examines them over. what do they look like :3 Keva: it takes significant mental energy for keva to not shove cimm off the bench after he just nearly choked, but she succeeds the battle with herself and just says, “ew” the work itself shows small improvements—one can tell she’s getting a little more used to the curved strokes of the letters and the sizing is a little more consistent. she’s not pressing the quill down on the paper so hard either. letters are still overly large, which introduces some wobble, especially with her still somewhat slower strokes. and in words they are still oddly spaced apart, like she’s focusing more on the individual parts than the whole. Cimmorro: keva's reaction just flies past him as he focuses on the state of her work and progress. he silently evaluates each of them in earnest and gives her feedback where it's due, such as leaning closer to her to point out the gaps between letters and so on. "little hiccups here and there but overall still doing impressively well, and so diligent too! the most important thing!" he celebrates with a tiny clap before handing her parchments back. "at this rate we could start to incorporate a little more reading as you go... but ah, we'll be travelling in a caravan for a while. we'll have to figure out how to keep this discreet." he mulls over options, crossing his arms in serious thought. Keva: she watches a fight break out in the distance to distract herself from her self-consciousness, turning only to look when he addresses her and answering him with quiet hmm's and mm's. when he mentions the caravan, she shifts a little uncomfortably. she knows this would be way easier if she didn't insist on keeping it a secret, but she isn't willing to let everyone look down on her more than they already do. especially finn. "...maybe when everyone's asleep?" Cimmorro: "if we're lucky to find them all asleep. at the very least we already know finn prowls about at night... i guess we could take up watch from time to time as to not look suspicious? i'll just give you more activities to do on your own in between... but this all depends," he sighs and tilts his head to the side, sort of defeated while he stretches his legs out. "we'll have to see the caravan they got. maybe we could work something out... does anyone else know about this or is it really just me?" Keva: keva sighs at the same time he does. nothing's ever easy... she shrugs a bit and thinks aloud, "psalm probably knows by now but don't think the others have picked up on it, and i'd prefer it stay that way." she's surprised psalm hasn't poked at her for it, to be honest, with how much he seems to enjoy annoying her, but she's grateful all the same. "maybe i could just... copy stuff to practice writing for a while" Cimmorro: "mmm," is all he responds at the mention of psalm and co. he can't say he can blame her for wanting to keep it from the others. it's not really any of their business. it'd probably only make it harder for her to focus with all of them flocking over her once it's known anyway. at her suggestion his eyes glint in agreement. "that's a sound idea for until we can figure something out. we can grab a book or two for you at the library later." Keva: she simply nods and mutters a "thanks," reminding herself to express gratitude, especially after all the trouble she's given him lately. after a silence she says, "how's the..." and loosely gestures to her face, the same side she had struck him on.

Cimmorro: "hmm? the wha-? oh. my face," he snorts. "good as new, see?" he leans his face closer to her while batting his eyelashes, as if to say 'come look at meee!' "good thing your nails didn't graze me or i'd have another scar on my gorgeous face...! and then i'd have to charge you!" he jokes. Keva: keva leans away as he leans forward, and with a finger pushes his face away by his chin like a page in a book. "lucky me," she says sarcastically. she was more focused on the invasion of personal space than the state of his face, but he's clearly feeling well enough to mess around. "guess you don't need those donuts after all" and she holds out a hand to get the bag back Cimmorro: "ah, ah, ah! nonono. a deal's a deaaaaaal!" he hugs the bag close to him. "and speaking of deals.... we're going to have to talk about our deal on the airship fees."

Keva: keva lets her head fall back in disappointment at the mention of the airship. "you'd think they'd be more grateful after we saved everyone's lives and business. imagine if their ship had gone down!" Cimmorro: "right? they should invest in more security measures... i can't believe something like that could just slip in and out so easily," he shakes his head. "they rewarded us at least....? but that's not why i brought it up," a cheeky smile makes its way on his face. "our deal was based on if we get free rides, not half price off. soooooo...." his hand waves around leisurely. Keva: "yeah yeah i know. i got so close, too...!" she sighs again "can't win 'em all" but what did she expect, she hardly wins any. "but rememeber that i got us those half-off tickets every time you take that airship," she sniffs Cimmorro: "yes! and ever so grateful and benevolent that i am, i'll still let you cash in on your prize... so long as it's in proportion," he makes a :3 face but inside he is half-relieved that keva doesn't have a huge of a favor hanging over his head now. he couldn't begin to imagine what she'd even ask of him of that caliber...! "behold, i'm just as gracious as the devas themselves~" Keva: she lifts her head back up a little in surprise and snorts "i don't know about that, but i guess i couldn't call you unfair. could call you easy though." she smirks, "i'll let you know when i've got something that calls for a big favor." Cimmorro: "easy?" a snort. "only when i want to be. if i was feeling mean as you often tend to be towards me-" he shoots a playful accusatory glance before he continues, "i'd just have brushed the deal off altogether. but! i'm a man with integrity. and perhaps i'm growing a soft spot for you? who can say." he cackles with the tease. "nevertheless, as long as your 'big' favor isn't unreasonable, miss kevster, we have a deal." Keva: at his casting a fake glare her way, she weakly lifts a single shoulder and smiles in a fleeting and insincere modeling pose, like she's receiving a compliment. there is another small moment of surprise as he continues to speaks, just barely registering on her face as a side glance before she resets. "soft spots are dangerous. i'd be more careful i were you. on account of the being mean and all." Cimmorro: "i appreciate your concern for me. been noticing more of it lately," he smirks as he dusts himself off before getting up. "maybe it's not me who has to worry about a soft spot after all? curious." his snickering continues while he prepares the bags and the horses to leave again, this time intending to ride them. "shall we?" Keva: keva scoffs, "don't get ahead of yourself. it just so happens you're offering something i need." getting on her feet, she scoops up amos mid-skitter and slips him back into her hood before mounting the same horse from before. "besides, can't cash in that lifetime-discount-worth favor if you're not in one piece." Cimmorro: "if that's how you want to put it." his grin doesn't fade as he gets on ruber, calling for jasper next to which she floats over to settle herself on the back of the new friend. "let's see how long you can keep that up," he says while wearing a smile of false innocence, casually circling his horse around hers before leading the way back to the inn. Keva: she pinches her face at him for the entirety of his pony show before rolling her eyes and making a sound of half-exasperation, half-disdain. she follows behind nonetheless, clicking her tongue and nudges ratnaraj along.

youtube

> 🎵 Brigade Town (Main) / Battle Chef Brigade OST

As the two successfully procure their horses, the rest of the party muddles their way through breakfast back at the sunite inn. Psalm wonders where their single missing member is idling about.

Psalm: Psalm just watches han amused. he goes "Where's your roommate? Keva and Cimmorro left earlier so he's the last one left to come down." Hes also gonna push some water towards her… Rokka: he tilts his head in thought "yknow, now that u mentioned it I haven't really seen him since I knocked out last night? maybe we should check up on him" Psalm: Psalm would…rather not do that. "Eh, I'm sure he'll show up eventually. Not like we're in any rush." Rokka: he nods "that's true!" Finn: finn who was hyping himself up and listening in on the conversation from just around the corner, to make sure he'd make a great entrance, is rather disappointed to hear this… he wanted to shoot psalm down or give him shit for talking about him at all but this wasnt such an easy opening to work with… he decides he cant spend too much time on this and struts in like he wasnt just standing there for 2 minutes "how unfortunate for you psalm, here i am. were you hoping to avoid me?" Rokka: rokka looks over his shoulder after hearing finn "speak of the devil! MORNING FINN" he waves Plum: they look at finn and just wave. Psalm: "I was wondering whether you'd be joining us for breakfast actually, but whatever you want to think." He smiles at him.. nothing can defeat his good mood today…! Finn: finn gives a light wave back at plum and rokka not unlike a king standing at a balcony and greeting his subjects with superficial interest. he then openly grimaces at psalm's smile, pushing out the thoughts of how its rather dazzling and as handsome as he always imagined it to be "how off putting for you to be in such good spirits. disgusting." he then huffs and makes a beeline for vinny Plum: plum just gives them a blank, almost unimpressed look. especially at the way he talks to psalm. Psalm: he just shrugs, Psalm just looks at Plum and gives them a knowing look, and says quietly "might be more than just Keva and Cimmorro" Plum: plum just snickers knowingly at that. honestly speaking they've warmed up to psalm pretty steadily over the course of this horrid venture so learning that the others find him so dull/are actively hostile to him is a bit of a surprise. they guess it's because he's so sarcastic which kind of makes sense but eh.

Finn: "good morning…. my friend, id like to have a word with you…" he invades his personal space somewhat with the way hes leaning in, not caring one bit for the conversation vinny is having right now Vinny: he blinks over from him and mars' GeoPoliticalTM conversation and jumps a little at his personal space being invaded "a-ah! good morning er… about what?" he leans to the side to make space for finn awkwardly putting his shoulder against mars in the process Finn: finn puts a hand on vinnys shoulder and slightly pulls him away from mars', displeased with the idea of vinny being so close to the stranger "in private, if you wouldnt mind…" the tone he uses to speak to vinny is gentle… not one he uses for any of the other vengaboys Vinny: he blinks owlishly as finn moves him about before glancing back at mars with a truly indecipherable expression. after a moment he turns back with an awkward smile "ah… sure, if you really need to" he moves to get up from the table as if sweating, looking to finn as if to say 'after you' Finn: finns smile is gentle but also a little somber… he tugs at vinnys sleeve briefly and leads him out into the hallways he just came from

Finn leads Vinny off to a vacant hallway away from any prying eyes, before he begins speaking to him again.

Finn: "i apologize for stealing you away first thing in the morning…" finns facade drops, he still speaks in that gentle voice to vinny but now he sounds somewhat tormented and hes gripping at his own arms as if desperate for support "but it was eating away at me all night… what transpired between us last night" he searches vinnys face for clues whether hes following or not… Vinny: he follows dutifully a little nervous as finn seems strangely serious. as he speaks he stares surprised before his mouth goes a little agape. he folds his own arms and groans after, hanging his head a little "ah… yes, i r-really do apologise for all that. i probably should have been clearer about it all…" he looks embarrassed but also weirdly guilty at finn's dramatics Finn: finn looks at vinny for a moment, nods, and sighs… he seems to hesitate to continue talking about this although hes the one who hyped himself up for it all night "it is good to hear you say that, friend…" he briefly smiles, truly happy that vinny reflected on his behaviour… perhaps what he'll say will reach him after all "but i know what youve been looking at me like… and thus i cannot say i was angry with you. youre… are you afraid of me vinny? i fear youve been more occupied with pleasing me rather than enjoying my actual company… i did not want to spend today with you knowing youre scared to talk back, or far worse, feel as though you cannot speak your mind around me at all…" he looks at vinny with puppy eyes now and takes his hands into his own "our friendship cant blossom like this…" Vinny: he begins rubbing his temple to hide his creeping shame though as finn goes on he becomes confused, it shows on his face as well before he speaks up "w-why on earth would i be afraid of you..?" he blinks wide eyed as he tilts his head, arms still folded "er- truth be told i don't mind becoming er, friends as you said but…" he pauses as if to formulate his words "you came on rather strong to start..! and it was a little daunting.. aha… especially since you didnt to seem to hold much regard for me when we met" he coughs awkwardly "last night well… i had no issue rooming with you, i have simply gathered that at this point when you and cimmorro come together it er…" he pauses again "has very u-unpredictable results..?" he tries to be kind in his wording Finn: finn patiently listens to vinny, nodding as he speaks… truthfully, hes a little pained to hear that vinny didnt appreciate finn pledging his full support right from the get-go, but thats okay… it is something vinny can still come to love about finn later, surely "ah, and yet youre so nervous…even now you tremble" finn tilts his head lightly and takes his hat off, going down on one knee before vinny "youre nervous before me, your friend… that alone is a testament to how i must intimidate you. perhaps i am unfortunate for having been born with such stature, perhaps you would have an easier time coming to terms with the fact that a barvotte has bound himself to you, were i not called one… but it cannot be changed" he closes his eyes and looks at vinny with renewed fervor "regardless of what i thought of you at first, regardless of how cimmorro and i bite and tear at one another, all becomes meaningless before you and i now. id like to see you for me… not for anything else, do you think thatd be possible for you, my friend? to dare look at me as your equal?" he smiles so earnestly, so warmly… a smile well reserved for his uncle usually

Vinny: he balks at finn's response, he balks at him getting on his knees, he's so shocked the rest of his face goes red in embarrassment before he starts quickly gesturing with his hands, flustered "i-i, look just g-get back up p-please, a-alright!" he kneels down to grab finn by the shoulders himself, so quickly stressed out by the strange display, pulling him up to standing height in front of him again "l-look that's exactly what im t-talking about! thats not really how you make friends with… well w-with anyone!" he pauses a moment to gather his wits again "and how exactly would we be equal with you kneeling on the floor!? really…" he releases finn from his hold as he shakes his head, at a loss as he rubs his brow "i was nervous because i was worried you might do something like that again…" he rubs his face for a moment calming himself, before turning back to finn extending a hand towards him with a set expression on his face "look, l-lets just start again here. my name is vinny, it's a pleasure to meet you" he stares expectantly, awaiting a response Finn: finn is shocked when vinny drops to his knees as well, when he reaches out, when he pulls finn up… his words seem to both ease and increase the burden thats been festering in his heart. his brows are lightly furrowed and hes not sure how to respond "i-i… i…" he stares at vinnys hand and then at vinny "you dont like when i…" in a sense, vinny is rejecting his very being. its in finns nature to be like this… to think that he would prostrate himself like this before another, only for it to be unwelcome.. a harsh wave of reality washes over him. could vinny not love him for him? "it must certainly not be a shock to hear ive not made many friends at all, over the course of my life" an edge accompanies the now not so gentle tone "truly, i dont know how to take this vinny… i thought you would like that about me… why is it that i cant proclaim my affection for you? you dont know what you did for me that night… but you have to know! it is my desire to make you feel the change youve brought forth in me…" he looks fragile now, his hand half outstretched and twitching, not quite ready to meet vinnys Vinny: he blinks as his request is ignored and finn seems to go on about something he can barely follow. but he simply sighs, reaches out with his other hand to grabs finn's and puts it in his own outstretched one, clasping it. he looks finn in the eye, almost taking the role of a parent right now hes starting to feel "and its very nice to meet you too?" he shakes their clasped hands firmly "if you want to make me feel anything aside from erm…. well finn, just start treating me a little less grandly, really, i'm just one man at the end of the day. we don't even really know all that much about each other, i think" he continues holding his hand in his grasp as he speaks again "and your name is..?" he tries again for his previous introduction routine Finn: "a-ah i- vinny" he becomes a bumbling mess as vinny asserts himself, he cant help but stare in shock at the hands clasping his own. hes not used to having his way of thinking….no, not just his thinking, having his way be denied quite like this. how can vinny just do this? cast aside all his grandeur and declarations of love? is it not that vinny doesnt realize hes special, but outright rejecting being special? he cant figure it out, and regardless of that finn feels something inside of himself break and shatter. something tiny and precious, something locked away for a very long time, forgotten. he looks vinny in the eyes and can only think that despite everything, he wants… "i-i-im…" he sniffles, pathetically "im finn a-and i really want to be your- your friend!" he hiccups, eyes glassy now

Vinny: he smiles a little bit, genuinely, even as finn begins to tear up, thinking hes finally made some ground here with the man as he relents. he gives their clasped hands one last firm shake as he reaches out with his other hand to pat finn on the shoulder with a friendly hand, giving him a sunny smile as if to cheer him up "it's a pleasure to meet you finn, lets hope we still have time to grab some breakfast, hm?" he lets go finally before reaching into his pocket for a handkerchief to give to him as his eyes wobble "see that went alright, didnt it? you'll become a natural yet" Finn: his tears spill over as soon as he feels vinnys hands leaving his own. the hiccuping gets worse and he stares in disbelief at his hands as the tears fall down, hat on the floor, long forgotten "n-no what is.. why.." he wipes desperately at his eyes, but he cant help the sob that escapes him at vinnys gentle touch to the shoulder "dont! dont look at me! n-not now!" he takes a step back and clutches at his head "no ones supposed to…" the way he looks at vinny is not unlike a wounded animal. his mind races back to before. he rejected him, in a way vinny rejected him. and in his heart he feels the sparks ignite, but the fire never quite starts raging. he breathes deeply and rapidly, trying to calm himself "what did you just make me do?! i…" and then his eyes fall unto the handkerchief. its just like the jacket before, isnt it? even if vinny cant see it the same way, finn wants to keep that memory, all to himself, even if something ugly is born inside him at this very moment. he finally accepts the handkerchief with a sniffle and holds it to his chest, holds it tightly, like treasure "you can go back on your own… ill get a hold of myself first" he looks to the side now, gears turning in his mind Vinny: he tilts his head a little perplexed at his response, despite him taking his handkerchief anyway. wondering briefly if he might have pushed the man a little far, despite his eccentricities he seems to shatter like glass at times. he folds his arms still staring at finn as if not sure if he should leave "hmm.. well…" he shakes his head, most of this is really beyond him but… he pats him on the shoulder again as he turns "alright, but from here on you can consider us friends alright?" he smiles again to cheer him up "you can give that back whenever you like, alright?" he pulls him into a one armed side hug as he pats his back, before he turns to walk off giving the man some privacy. as he leaves the hallway he lets out a deep harried sigh, he still hasn't even really eaten anything this morning….. and weren't they supposed to go out after eating. he's starting to regret opening his mouth and not playing along at this point, maybe it would have kept the peace…? Finn: finn half heartedly attempts to lean into the hug but doesnt react more than that, a hollow feeling carving its way throughout his entire body. he stares mindlessly at the wall before him. why did vinny have to go and ruin their relationship? he cant put him back on the pedestal, thats what it is. he can never put vinny back up there and he can never declare his gratitude again… he cant smother vinny in his love. the one who would actually deserve it.

As the two have their conversation the rest of the table chatters in their absence.

Mars: he blinks back at vinny as he leaves 'Wait who is that guy hello your Vildristin is getting kidnapped' at plum. Seeing Vinny ripped away from geopolitics chat so suddenly made him focus in on Plum's explanation instead, he does seem interested in the topic before Plum's question put his own question away. "Oh, her?" He tilts his head a little so the bird could maybe stop trying to make a nest up there. With a rowdy flap she eventually settles on his hand as she lowers it. "It must've slipped my mind to actually introduce her to you all, but this is my familiar, Silva. She'll hopefully help us get a lay of the land while we're on the road." Plum: at mars plum just sighs. "yeah, i suppose he is getting kidnapped right now," they're amused by the phrase "your vildistrin." they say, "and that's finn, another member of the party right now. actually he's the nephew of the person contracting all of us. didn't know those two were so close though? also a familiar, that's cool. she seems pretty smart, if her gagging at what vinny said just now was like. real." Psalm: Hello Silva." Rokka: rokka perks up and waves "HIYA SILVA I'M ROKKA!" Han: "Er- well, your Vinny I suppose if we're going by what you said last night." Finn.. finn… adds that to the list of names to remember. After hearing Plum's compliment to Silva though he looks back down to the kestrel and goes. "She did what???" And she looks up at him cluelessly until psalm and rokka greet her and she promptly hops off to greet them instead. Psalm: psalm like oh how cute Silva: she's really friendly it seems. Plum: plum watches her chug it very amused. "probably tastes like shit but, how you feeling now?" Psalm: Watching the hangover cure situation unfold with Han Psalm just goes plum "Next time I'll be sure to come to you " Han: she laid back down after chugging it and turns to plum, a bit bewildered "actually better" shes impressed Plum: "sure, i gotcha." they say to psalm then to han they're like, "okay cool, good" and take back the cup.

Plum: "true, he's like our group's resident wizard right now. weirdly of his own volition. and yeah, i realise you couldn't see though because she was on your head," they laugh. Psalm: "Of his own volition is what astounds me honestly, he seems content to let Cimmorro and Finn drag him around." Mars: "That scamp…" Though there's no malice in it at all, just a man resigned to a pet that's way too smart for its own good. "He seems nice, being wrapped around fingers aside. Though I didn't realise that was that Finn guy just now." What strange fashions are they doing in antessa… actually he will refelct upon his normie centric world view Psalm: "He's a bit of an eccentric." Is what Psalm says by way of explanation for Finns snuffkin outfit.. Mars: "I've heard tell that he's a noble. Seems about right…" He muses. Psalm: "A pretty textbook one too… I'd say try not to let him bother you but I get the feeling you're not the type to." Mars: "Ahaha…?" ??? <- clueless Psalm: "….Don't worry about it." Plum: "yeah he is nice. too nice probably is the vibe i get. also yeah, regarding finn, just…don't worry about it." Mars: The second time he hears dont worry about it re: Finn he's a little suspicious but he'll see for himself in due time he supposes…… He knows better than to look peace time gift horse in the mouth.

Eventually Vinny wanders back into the main room, looking deeply contemplative and like hes gained 15 years of age.

Psalm: "Well! That looks like it went well, whatever it was!" Vinny: he stares off into the middle distance rubbing his chin as psalm speaks "perhaps..? well, i hope so…" he sits there forgetting to go grab food, i never shoulda opened my mouth…. Psalm: Curious but self preserving, Psalm leaves it alone Mars: Looks around and realises vinny hasn't eaten. "We still have time before the trip, may be a while before we can have a decent meal." Vinny: he glances over taken out of his reverie "o-oh you're right" he gets up again to go grab something from the bar as well, still thinking to himself Mars: Whatever they talked about seemed grave…………….. observation best kept to the self

Plum: "poor vinny," plum says aloud after he's left the table to go get food. Mars: "The other guy better eat now too unless he's more of an on the road eating kinda guy." Plum: "he'll probably grab something on the road, yeah." plum says casually. Mars: "If you're sure…" Not many chances to eat on the way though…! Psalm: "I can only imagine what they just discussed if Finn didn't even come back with him, should one of us go check on him?" Plum: "i mean, you can if you want to." plum sayys, kind of perplexed at the thought. "i don't want to. feel like he's alone when he wants to be." Psalm: "Well last time I left him to his own devices he tried propositioning one of the guides we were meant to hire, so I just figure it'd minimise the damage if we got a hold of him now…" Plum: "oh, sure," plum screws up their face, unwilling to remember finn's behaviour yesterday. "be my guest, though. i don't really care otherwise." Psalm: "Well, I see no other volunteers so excuse me for a moment." Knowing he will probably regret this decision, Psalm excuses himself from the table and goes in search of their missing vampire… Plum: they salute

Back in the hallway Finn's mind briefly wanders to psalm…. and he shivers in disgust at himself, for thinking that he'd want psalm to comfort him now. In his mind he stumbles drunkenly into psalms room at night and… and if Finn threw himself at psalm with all his beauty and glory unveiled, the coward still wouldn't think to touch him, let alone look at him. Still, he doesn't trust himself to be around psalm right now. He might just become that pathetic.

Finn almost slides down the wall as his thoughts continue to make short work of the little rest he got last night. He thinks to pick up his hat and looks at the handkerchief in his hand… he dries his tears, but doesn't think to blow his nose… if it were him, if his lover handed him such a used handkerchief, tainted with snot tears and saliva… Finn would smother himself in it. Vinny would not. Not ever. Could Finn accept being merely his friend? In this way? He… cant say. Why did Vinny make him admit something so stupid? the day ahead fills him with dread.

Finn, in his misery, has started performing for himself in the hallway, uncaring if anyone sees. Psalm is lucky enough to happen upon the scene undisturbed, enough to watch for a bit. It does not take a trained eye to see he is attempting ballet. He jumps around, mimicking things from shows hes seen, does a poor pirouette… he is unskilled in the art, plain to see. Sometimes he incorporates a couple slashes as if he were wielding a sword, as if he were re-enacting a play… Whom he might picture in this moment, who's to say… hes very concentrated on his act.

Psalm: Psalm enters the hallway and is honestly…well he's not sure what he expected really. He just figured Vinny and Finn had some dumb conversation, considering Finn seems to have some one sided obsession with him. How'd that happen anyways? He's not sure if he should say something or make a quick getaway before Finn realises he's there… Han: finn halts to do a dramatic movement, he lowers himself to the floor and raises his arms in a swan like manner… his gaze goes up to the ceiling and even though stuck in his reverie, he starts to notice an orange figure standing there… he rises, reaches for the ceiling before starting to do a few clumsy pirouettes in succession "what do you seek me for? have you come to laugh at me? have you been yearning and edging to see me succumb to misery like this? perhaps this is why you woke up so happy today…" this is delivered with a noticable lack of emotion. finn inches closer to psalm and holds out his hand, doing a little bow, offering to psalm to join "or have you come to apologize?" his gaze is empty but fixed Psalm: Still confused, but ultimately not surprised at being utterly lost around Finn anymore, he says "Actually I just came to check on you. Why would I laught at you?" I lowkey dont trust that you won't get up to something silly he does not say. "Is you ''succumbing to misery' why you're doing ballet in the middle of the hallway?" Kind of scared by Finns expression he just takes his hand to humor him. He's not really sure what he has to apologise for though so he leaves that alone for now. Psalm: "it is alright to admit youve been waiting for the chance… i fully anticipate you to feel that way…" finn is a little surprised by psalm taking his hand though, and he starts to initiate a waltz with psalm.. his expression starts to betray emotion, sorrow making itself apparent. finn thinks to himself that he is disgusting…just minutes earlier he was scolding himself, he had sworn off even talking to the man until he apologized, and yet he didnt hesitate to offer the devil his hand.. and now they dance! how laughable. how pitiful "i… ive simply always been miserable…" he starts, unsure how much he wants to share until psalm gives him what is owed and looks at the warlock with just about the saddest eyes you can imagine, they seem to be asking for comfort and also assurance, even if finn himself wouldnt admit it "thats all…"

Psalm: "There's clearly some misunderstanding here. You seem to think that I'm upset with you, or biding my time waiting for your downfall." He just goes with the waltz honestly, he's done weirder shit in public at this point. Not really sure what to say to that though he just asks, "Did Vinny like, get mad at you or something?" He finds that hard to believe, but since he's unofficially appointed himself as group counselor it's worth asking. Finn: "everyone is…" he mumbles, clearly not up for debating this part of his perception. at psalms question he almost winces, he looks away for a moment "he didnt get mad at me… perhaps i wouldve preferred that. i…" his eyes drift towards psalm again "lost something. i always seem to lose, even if im supposed not to" after a moment finn stops and leans against psalm. it is meant as a dramatic pause in their dance. he lingers and hates himself for it. into psalms chest he speaks "why do you humor me psalm? dancing with me like this… does it not make you want to up and leave?" Psalm: "If you say so." <-- guy that doesn't wanna debate either. Psalm can't imagine what it would take for Vinny to get mad at someone… he doesn't think an angry Vinny would be very pleasant. "Also I'm certain if I did that you'd get mad at me, so as random as this is its the preferred outcome." He backtracks, "Not to say this is unpleasant or anything!" Just in case Finn gets mad at him anyways…! "But it seems that you and I are not on the same page regarding how we see each other, hence why you keep mentioning an apology. As for Vinny… I cant imagine what he could've said that'd make being angry preferable but.. cheer up…? I guess…?" Finn: finn thinks it over in his mind… if psalm made fun of him, he'd most likely get mad. but itd ultimately depend on the situation. if its the right type of situation, he'd probably find it hot. a machination of his mind so natural to himself he doesnt need to elaborate it in his own thoughts. he leans back further against psalm, expecting to be held like people in ballet hold each other. psalms awful go at telling finn to cheer up has him grimacing… hes almost ready to leave the man himself, actually "youve slighted me on the airship… not that i expect you to remember, since youre so clueless" his usual tone starts to return to him "although itd be quite miraculous for you to tell me you dont remember. regardless" an eyeroll and a sigh later he continues "im willing to forgive you, if you answer one question for me" he cranes his neck to look at psalm with sharp eyes and intent Psalm: Psalm has never watched ballet so he has no idea Finn expects anything of him."You mean in the hallway? That's what-" he pauses, "You're interesting Finn, I'll leave it at that. Let's hear this question then." He looks back at Finn in his usual, seemingly disinterested manner, but he is definitely dreading whatever is going to come out of Finns mouth.

Finn: a small smirk tugs at the corners of finns mouth, and hes powerless to fight it off… being called interesting is already beginning to lift his mood and psalm even remembered his fuck up! he can even overlook psalm not holding him properly and begins to guide his arms to finns hips, then then returns to his own pose from before "can all forms of love be received?" his stare is intense now… "id advise you to not aim to receive my approval….i want to hear what you think" Psalm: Psalm like please can NO ONE I KNOW WALK INTO THIS HALLWAY RIGHT NOW BECAUSE IM NOT SURE HOW ID EXPLAIN THIS SITUATION. He just let's Finn do whatever he wants to be honest. "I wouldn't even know what to say that you'd approve of, so no need to worry about that. In any case I'm not sure I fully understand, but I think it's case by case… and depends on who's doing the receiving. Not everyone loves the same, or wants the same thing from each other…?" What on earth were he and Vinny talking about? Finn: "hm…" finn thinks for a moment, temporarily pleased by the fact that psalm wouldnt know how to please finn, slowly resuming their waltz from before "so youd say that a love, no matter how wicked and strange, no matter how appalling to the average person… has the potential to be received by the right person?" Vinny: "Sure, if that's what they're into. I don't see why not." Starting to put pieces together in his head here about the nature of this conversation with Vinny he thinks. "Wait don't tell me..sorry if this steps on a nerve but did Vinny turn you down?"

Finn: finn seems pleased by this answer and finally relaxes… their dance taking on a more comfortable nature, less dramatic. at being asked about vinny again though finn furrows his brows a little and shoots psalm a look that seems to say 'a bit quick of you to ask dont you think?' "it was…… not like that. despite how it looks to you now. i will say it is a little soon, considering youve only just risen again in my good graces, but i wouldnt mind sharing more about this another time… this hallway feels a lot less private now that ive regained my clarity" his tone is lacking in ire, and he begins to slowly stop dancing, not quite yet letting go of psalms hands though. he stares at him for a good moment, hesitating as usual when it comes to expressing gratitude "i… must admit im quite happy that youve earned my forgiveness. it wouldve been a shame if i had to stay mad at you for the rest of our journey…" not that he doesnt have a plethora of reasons left to be mad at psalm, but right now he truly is grateful to psalm for helping him. his heart seems to be at ease once more, his grievances with vinny as good as forgotten. finn opts to smile sweetly at psalm, and lets go of his hands, lest he gets the wrong idea again Psalm: He shoots a look back that says, 'I'm curious sue me' but it's apologetic.. At Finn's admission however Psalm also smiles, albeit a bit hesitant. "Well be glad it's just me that found you here I suppose. Although I'm sure the others would probably not find it all that strange." Psalm is not 100% sure what he did to get back into Finn's good graces but whatever works, he supposes be gave the right answer…? "That would be a shame yes, I can't say I would've enjoyed that." Finn: finn would rather die than admit he was quite literally hoping for psalm to appear…perhaps the comfort he wished for was different, but he was comforted nevertheless… his day would be going worse if anyone else found him, surely. so he nods to that. ah…theres that smile again (hesitation flying over his head). finn almost sighs, still kind of annoyed that hes still this attracted to psalm, but he maintains his smile and feels a blush creeping up his cheeks "you know… you look quite handsome like this actually. im happy to be the reason for once" Psalm: Psalm is back to being mostly confused but just rolls with it "Uhhhh, kind of unused to you not just insulting me afterwards but thanks?" Finn: finn stops in his tracks and looks back, blinking a bit sheepishly "would you like me to? that thanks didnt sound like you were actually pleased…" why, it sounds like psalm misses it! Psalm: Psalm's smile changes into a smirk, "I prefer you being nice to me." Finn: that smirk makes finns face turn red entirely but hes determined to maintain his confidence "oh? are you sure?" he raises his nose as he talks, both to appear more haughty and to hopefully hide how much that got to him "i couldve taken you for a masochist the way you get me to insult you over and over…" Psalm: Unfortunately (or fortunately for Finn idk that guy is an enigma) he's triggered Psalm's fondness for fucking with people, so Psalm just smiles like this and says "I think you have it wrong Finn, considering how little effort it takes to get you to do it I think you're the one here that enjoys it." Finn: "y-you…" finn is starting to crack, very visibly, gears in his head working overtime to figure this one out "are you calling me a sadist? ha…one dance and you go flattering yourself like this…" hes starting to figdet with his coat Psalm: "That is exactly it yes," he says matter-of-factly. "And you can't really blame me can you? You started it." He crosses his arms.

Finn: finn feels himself shrinking…..whats it with psalm suddenly messing with him like this and towering over him? well, hes just standing there, but still "s-so what…" finn mumbles and pouts before mentally congratulating himself for thinking of the best comeback ever, that surely wont ruin his good relationship with psalm now "maybe thats the real reason you turned me down back then…were you scared id be too mean?" he also crosses his arms now Psalm: "That's not something that crossed my mind, no," Psalm says, hoping to god this doesn't sound unkind(?). He doesn't really want to revisit this topic too much though… "If I was worried about you being mean to me I'd be in trouble, all things considered." Finn: finn starts pointing at him in an anime-esque fashion now "exactly why im justified in my suspicion of your masochism… youre the one who lets me walk all over you and then still comes to dance with me and comfort me like this" back to pouting "if anything im surprised it took you this long to figure that out about me……" <-flying over his head now Psalm: "True, and I said Vinny let himself be dragged around earlier. I suppose it's a case of the pot calling the kettle black here why I let you treat me like this. Suspect what you want about me, be mean to me if you want, as long as we're fine." Psalm is not even sure if they're on the same page anymore or if they ever were at any point in this conversation. Finn: unfortunately for finn he just cant keep up with psalms teasing. first psalm says something about preferring to be treated nicely, now he calls for finn to treat him however he likes… and that he'll come to him regardless? was psalm actually coming onto him right now?…… finn briefly covers his face in a desperate attempt to make sense of it all and block out that damn smirk… all he understands is that psalm is just hot right now and he needs to get out of here "i-i got it, okay? so just stop being like this! we just made up! its like youre really deliberately trying to get me to be cruel to you!" with the pitch of his voice having gone up, finn waves one hand in front of him rapidly and keeps his face covered with the other, anything to avoid looking directly at psalm "i wanted to grant you the opportunity to walk back with me but i just cant with you like this! idiot!" this time he really runs for it….unable to bear this, in his opinion, seme attitude from psalm any longer although they both have the same destination anyway Psalm: Idk if Psalm said he'd go to him regardless & hes not coming onto him, but since he cannot read Finns mind that's just going to have to be left alone He just snorts as he watches Finn leave, his attempt at being obnoxious(?) successful(?) "I got called and idiot in the end though huh " he thinks as he follows after him back to the breakfast table (at a distance).

As the two amicably(?) resolve their chat, in the interim those still at the table chatter in the three's absence.

Mars: "Did he (finn) do something?" <- guy asking questions expecting a lighthearted answer Plum: "when we were trying to find a guide yesterday he was hitting on some of them. i think we spared you from that by coming up to you ourselves." plum says, waving a piece of bread before eating it. Mars: "Hitting on them…?" He sounds a little amused? "Not the best impression I suppose." Plum: "nah, not really. i guess it's kind of funny thinking about it in retrospect, though." Mars: “He hasn’t gone back in a while… Hope he’s doing alright, Vin looked haggard there when he came back.” Plum: "well we could always ask. but yeah, although to be fair vinny regularly looks pretty haggard. or tired," plum notes Mars: “Well seems like Psalm’s gone off and done it.” If that door is somewhere to his left then he full on turns to it. “Seems like… a touchy subject though, perhaps you’re better off asking Vin.”

As if on cue the man wanders back a plate of breakfast in hand as he sits himself at the table again.

Plum: "maybe i will, i feel bad for asking him about the accords and all too. he seems pretty stressed by those." <- cue vinny coming back Mars: In all the chatter it seemed like he missed how touchy the subject of the accords is. “Right, uh, I’ll refrain from bringing that up around him.” Sheepish headscratch oh hi vinny Vinny: he glances at the two of you again as he sits down and gives a lopsided smile "talking about me?" Mars: “Er… somewhat?” Plum: plum feels embarrassed for a short second before going "we were wondering what finn could possibly have wanted to talk about, since you seemed pretty frazzled on your way back here. psalm went to go look for him, though." plum leans back in their chair. "oh and i was saying i felt bad for bringing up the accords since you seemed pretty stressed about it. oh shit, i guess i'm bringing it up again right now. my bad.." Vinny: he lets out a dry laugh "well… it was about the rooming situation last night but then it got into… well all sorts of things i didn't quite understand" he leans forward putting his chin in his hand "he holds me in some great esteem for some reason, it got so dramatic just now i felt i had to bring him back down to the ground a little… though i wonder if i ought have just played along" he plays with his fork furrowing his brow a little as he moves onto the accord business and gives him a tired smirk "well… as much as i hold contempt for the group i do know quite a bit about them, a sad irony" Plum: "oh…?" plum says. "that sounds…confusing. but unsurprising i guess. i was saying earlier i didn't even realise you two had gotten so close. you're a pretty capable wizard though, maybe it has something to do with that? i think finn cares about that kind of esteem thing, anyways." plum looks at mars like does that somewhat explain finn's personality to you…maybe..maybe not. plum perks up at the last sentence also. "contempt why?" Vinny: he makes a strained face "he is a very confusing man… but i am making an effort… i guess we'll see where it leads?" he makes a face at plum praising him again like hes a little embarrassed and moves on, sticking his fork into his food and laughing dryly at the question, muttering a little "holding my life in their palms i suppose……" before shoving the food into his mouth Mars: He looks around between Plum and Vinny and his shoddy recollection of Finn. And just wearily nods along. “So its… complicated on both subjects I see…” Vinny: vinny nods back at him as he chews Han: han moans from the table "everyone is so freaking complicated in this group…"

Mars: “Seems to be what I’ve heard from Cimm this morning.” He doesnt say its fascinating seeing it actually happen. But hes not not thinking it Plum: "that's funny.. i wouldn't say i'm complicated though " they mumble. they laugh at what han says though "i feel like the only person who has yet to encounter finn being overly complicated.. and i pray to keep it that way. good on you though, that's kind of you." plum isn't that patient, personally. they make a face back at vinny. "damn, let us know if you ever need help? you're always helping us, honestly." Vinny: he shakes his head again "i just… it was so strange i didnt know what else to say to him…! im sure you'd probably think of something better if such fate befell you" he thinks to himself that he agrees with mars and han's assessments as he goes on and stares at his plate "honestly, i'm not sure there's much anyone can do for me at this point, myself included, its quite a…situation. but i appreciate the thought" he smiles as he looks back over towards plum "well, consider it equal for saving my life how many times back in the city" Plum: "well i hope so," they smirk with a short of joking confidence. "maybe i already have and that's why we haven't run into any issues yet." at what vinny says they just frown but don't push it. "that doesn't sound good, but okay. i'm not sure what i could even help with, to be honest. those kinds of things kinda evade me, but alright. it's equal then." they smile (when plum smiles its usually kind of like this >:) but not like evilly) Mars: “I’m sure you’re wonderfully mundane.” With no tone shift whatsoever to plum Plum: "whoa, flirting with me all of a sudden.." they say in a deadpan. hopefully obviously joking they can't tell with anyone anymore Mars: “Huh??” <- One of the people the joke isnt landing on. Vinny: he laughs again "where would this group be without a natural like you holding them together?" he snorts a little at mars and plums exchange, though he begins to eye mars a little more curiously Plum: "yeah alright alright, i don't know about all of that they joke back, looking smug then to mars "never mind.." plum says, head in their hands. "i'm actually very wonderfully mundane. it's one of my best qualities." they say seriously instead, also slightly embarrassed. Mars: “Uh yes that’s what I… said…?” He scratches the back of his head. “Sorry- Yes you’re you seem mundane. Its great.” He looks gravely serious now. “I’m stopping.” He decreed. Doesn't even see vinny w how hard hes backpedaling Plum: plum is just looking at mars bewildered, like they're almost starting to feel bad for saying anything. "it's fine," they say. Mars: “Moving on.” Continues to sit there and say nothing.

Vinny: vinny continues staring at mars as he chews "you're really alike huh…" before smiling at plum "allergic to praise are we?" Plum: "well, i'll accept it where it's due is all…." they huff lightheartedly. Vinny: he grins good naturedly as he continues eating "ever humble!" his mood slowly improving again with the twos rapport, though mars' confusion continues to amuse him

SESSION 54 - 30/9

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> 🎵 Cliff Town / Spyro Reignited OST

Picking up again in the midst of the morning, Keva and Cimmorro stand proudly as the owners of two new jet black steeds named Ratnaraj and Ruber for the group, the former nuzzling itself against Cimmorro’s face as he introduces himself.

Cimmorro: cimm gives him warm and welcoming pets in return. "you two are messing up my hair, but i'll let it slide this time!" Keva: keva wraps her reins securely around a hand "ready to go?" Cimmorro: "eeeyup. we got them quicker than i anticipated but that also means more time for that donut stop" he sways a little giddy as he turns to lead the way

The two head to the little known pastry store within the city for their morning delights. They arrive in front of a tall green painted building, small flowers blooming out the front in plant pots as the smell of baked goods fills their noses. The store is located at the bottom of the building, the clear windows displaying the baked delights to entice passersby. Working a stall out the front of the store is a flour covered older woman in her late 40s, arranging breads for sale.

Cimmorro: cimm was in the middle of telling keva about how this is the only place they can get these donuts using native ingredients from coralwash. "it's actually like magic! the way they melt in your mouth" approaching the front of the store he goes "hey-llo~ would you have a dozen of fairy's winks to-go?" Keva: while cimm greets the baker keva busies herself eyeing the display Baker: the older woman glances up at you "oh? any flavour in particular or you want the lot" she dusts her hands on her apron with a grin "something special going on?" Keva: keva adds nonchalantly over cimm's shoulder, "birthday party" she points to him suggesting it's his "got any deals on cake too?" (18 on deception lmaaaao) Cimmorro: "ahhh, give me assorted ones please, but ah…" he suddenly distracted by a thought "give me a half dozen of strawberry ones to add. :)" at keva's interjection, he turns to look at her with an half-amused eyebrow raise Baker: the woman's face lights up a little "oh, well aint that nice. picking up nice and fresh in the morning" she steps inside the store ushering you after her as she starts grabbing and boxing the sweets for you "hmm we got a couple of slices from yesterday that're half price if you like vanilla" Keva: keva looks to cimmorro "well, do you like vanilla?" Cimmorro: "i do, actually! what would that cost us altogether? i don't suppose letting you pet our horses would get us an extra sweet or two? :3" he says only jokingly Baker: the woman tallies up the price on a piece of parchment before glancing at you with a smirk "let's say 8 silver for you honey" Cimmorro: cimm slides it over the display

Keva: KEVA PUSHES CIMM'S HAND OUTTA THE WAY BEFORE HE CAN PAY AND FORKS OVER HER MONEY Cimmorro: he was going like "here you- GAH!" then turns to keva like >:(??? ?? "what's your problem" Keva: "it's your birthday" she says like it's obvious "besides, i owe you for the strawberries, remember?" and nearly giving him a black eye, but she doesn't say that part out loud Cimmorro: he stares at her with furrowed brows, mostly just pouty not angry. "then pay for the ones with the strawberries! i'm paying for the dozen i'm giving my sisters" Keva: "just pay me back the difference then" she keeps up a relatively pleasant demeanor in front of the shopkeep "thank you" Baker: he woman laughs at your little exchange before taking the money from either of you and handing over the sweets "careful you dont argue on how to eat them"

Keva: keva takes the still warm sweets and turns to go, dropping the smiley (for her) act the moment she's facing away. she takes a curious sniff before holding them out to cimm to take "pay up then" Cimmorro: he takes his share of the sweets from her, continuing to pout "when are you going to be that nice to me, huh?" he plants the 2 silver on her now empty hands Keva: keva tucks the money away and makes a bit of an exaggerated shrug "who knows, maybe never" Cimmorro: he blows raspberries. "my efforts… they mean nothing to you!" he cries out dramatically, nothing serious though. he smirks the next second, as if he wasn't just doing any theatrics whatsoever. "hmpf, if you're still walking around with me that must at least mean something"

The two begin walking off towards their next destination as they continue to chatter.

Keva: she snorts "that i don't absolutely hate you? you must have low standards" she dips a finger into the cream filling of her cake slice and cleans it right off. light and airy, not to sweet. she gives a joking smile "i suppose you've been good enough company tho, so we'll see" Cimmorro: "ugh, of course i am. you'll be all over me before you know it!" he snorts but immediately makes a displeased noise at her. "ahhh!! why desecrate a perfect cake! wait til we can sit down" Keva: "when's that going to be? i thought we were meeting up with the others soon" she quickly eats a little more icing as if to goad him, but then tucks it away "didn't you want to go to the library with vinny?" Cimmorro: "we'd have to catch up to them first--- stop, stop it i'm going to start taking that from you!" he growls and huffs. "i did want to go to the library but checking out other shops wouldn't hurt… we should just get on the horses at this point."

Back at the inn the other group finish up their breakfast, readying themselves to go about their business for the rest of the morning.

Finn: finn comes scuttling out of the hallway and runs over to vinny "vinnyyyy!!! >__<" he grabs a hold of vinnys shoulders and leans down a little, acting as if that hallway fiasco didnt just happen "have you finished eating?? i think we should get a move on already…" he seems a little whiny, but thats bc he really wants to get away from psalm rn, then at han "are you awake now??" hes pouting Vinny: he glances over surprised as he's shook about and gives finn a lopsided smile "uh… i suppose?" guess i was worried for nothing thinks vinny to himself Han: muffled "i am always awake" Psalm: Psalm rejoins the breakfast group as well Finn: "then lets go! i tire of waiting…" if this goes on, cimm and keva will have gotten the horses before hes had a chance to try and bond with vinny for real now! finn already knows what he wants to talk about while they loiter around town….. Han: han slides off the table and gets up, she does a "lets gooooooo" thats much more subdued than her usual lets goooooo but shes letsing go nonetheless Mars: Watching Han, Vinny and Finn walk off "Wonder where those THREE are going." Psalm: "Probably to explore before we set out? If I had to guess." Mars: "I suppose we have time for it if they don't get lost…" But also aware that this is a real easy city to get lost in. "Probably best if someone goes with them." Rokka: "should we follow them in case they do need help?" he tilts his head Mars: "Well why don't… we just join them?" He sees no problems with this at all Rokka: "GOOD POINT U HAVE SIR" he shoots up from his seat prepared to tag along Mars: Gets up too (sir??!!!???!???!?).

Vinny: he stumbles upwards quickly "er- did we want to bring the others to get all the supplies?" he glances at the rest of the group at the table as he stands Finn: finn goes kinda pale and glances around nervously "huh? wha-? n-no! we decided yesterday you and i and han would go out together…" Plum: "i can come along if you want," plum shrugs Vinny: he glances at hungover han "er- that is true but i dont know if she can lug an entire caravan on her own anymore.." he smiles at plum as they speak up Han: han straightens out and blinks awake now that her ability is being questioned "i absolutely can !" Plum: "i believe in you," plum says. "but i have no plans and i don't wanna be bored so…" they get up to join the group if they're done eating Han: "you guys can come along! but i do not get lost !!!" shes very offended at the implication Psalm: Psalm will just join the group for lack of anything else better to do, So he says as much Finn: finn crosses his arms and taps his foot impatiently as he watches his plans fall apart in real time…. talking about love is not something he wants to do with the whole group… he wanted to know what vinnys ideal partner is, what he finds romantic, if he wants to shop together…… ugh! he makes a "tch" sound at psalm coming along too now but quickly shuffles to walk next to vinny "i-i guess we'll all go together then Plum: "yayy" plum says tiredly Psalm: Psalm raises an eyebrow & says "No worries, I'll splinter off at the first book store I see." Finn: finn looks over his shoulder and pouts at psalm but on the inside he thinks he would actually like to spend time with psalm but theres no way for him to admit or create that opportunity now… he has to be somewhat mad out of principle Vinny: vinny smiles as the whole group agrees on the outing and then pats finn on the back "the more the merrier….!"

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> 🎵 Shop Open Theme / Recettear OST

The group all make their way towards the local city markets in search of a caravan and supplies to purchase, the smells and sounds differ from that of shorewater ones they've become accustomed to. The markets are layed out almost in a spiderweb fashion, branching off in all sorts of directions above and below. They’ll probably be able to find all sorts of things they need here.

The smell of food follows throughout as there always seems to be a vendor of some sort on the street selling something particularly delicious. Likewise they see guild members of all sorts getting into healthy morning scraps in the street, and merchants arguing loudly at their stalls. It feels less immediately intimidating than in the evening though, perhaps others are also sleeping off their hangovers.

Upon arriving Mars looks around for least scammy looking caravan shop in sight, Psalm joins him at the front to assist him.

Psalm: joining mars he asks "So you've had a bit of experience right? According to your profile at the guild. Is that in general or with that guild?" Hes sorry for the interrogation but he's curious Mars: "Yeah I'd say I've been to Bakaldor more than most cities. Not really with the guild though, just do work for them every now and then." He seems a little thoughtful as he's answering. Psalm: "No experience fighting drakes though I'd imagine."

As they chat and walk, the two squint around the market and spy a woodworkers stall, a large overhanging tent keeping a few caravans and wheels in the shade behind the stall worker. The colours of the overhanging fabric play across the woman's face seated in front of them.

She's sits on a stool whistling and carving away at something in her hands as passer-by come and go. The place looks above board enough, and pretty open which is a good sign of nothing underhanded going around. The stall next to hers is currently taking place to a fevered argument between a guild merc and a boot seller though, which is a little grating on the ears.

Mars: "You know, funnily enough not the first time I've been asked that today." He starts leading everyone towards the shop he spotted, tuning out the boot argument. "But no, read about them, but never actually fought one myself." Psalm: "Eh no surprise, I doubt anyone here has and yet here we are going hunting for one anyways." Plum: "i definitely don't, in case you all were wondering," plum jokes dryly Mars: "5000 gold is 5000 gold". His head tilts a lil like well wcyd. Psalm: Sighs.. Rokka: rokka just stares at him now realizing what the party is really doing for reals "oh 😄 " Finn: "well i, for one," he places a hand on his chest and raises his nose "am eager to meaningfully expand my adventuring resume" Plum: "well you are one of the fighters, so that does make sense" plum shrugs Finn: finn glances at plum and then stems his hands on his hips, nodding with a triumphant smile on his face… "yes yes! naturally!" hes most pleased that plum seems to understand what hes all about Plum: plum is kind of displeased with finn lately so this is kind of funny, they just nod kind of distracted by the arguing (boots..) Psalm: "Well I guess if we have no choice it's better to not dread it." Being a hypocritice tho bc psalm cannot be assed Finn: "oh? it would appear you might just be growing a spine yet psalm!" he says in fake shock, holding a hand over his mouth Psalm: "Wouldn't bet on it ^__^" Finn: "tsk" he crosses his arms and rolls his eyes "see where you end up with that attitude" he mumbles

As the group make their way over Han gives a curious glance at the heated argument at the stall over, as far as she can tell they're only arguing over boots. She peers over to give the pair a glance, the boots look of decent make but the mercenary is asking for a lower price due to some arcane imperfections, its a bit beyond her.

Han: damn go off merc… han leans back into the group trying to decide about caravans

Woodworker: the woman glances up at you as you approach and assesses your group "near something fixed up or something new?" she taps her whittling knife on the table next to her as she sets the things in her hands down, she glances at the stall next door breifly before rolling her eyes and continuing on Mars: "Looking for a caravan. Seems like you've some nice ones here." He's completely oblivious to the argument in the next stall over and just looks at everyone like ITS YOUR BUDGET... Rokka: "what makes a caravan good?" Psalm: should anyone here be allowed to spend money Mars: How would mars know that ❤

Mars and Finn ponder what they assume should be priority of a group their size, having their experience travelling alongside other people for good stretches of time. They assume for a group of their number it should be of a larger size, and made of thicker and studier wood since they'll be travelling in harsher climates. Maybe getting additional outer protections would be a good idea as well, some sort of specific wheels for the craggier areas. No doubt bunk beds would also be preferable...

The two glance for anything along those lines though in the daylight finn's eyes begin to strain a little, he has trouble telling any of them apart. Mars in comparison, spys a few larger ones near the back of the stall.

Woodworker: he woman follows your gaze as you glance at the back "ahh.. we got a couple fit for bigger groups near the back of the stalls" she waves you all over to follow her walking between a few others before she stands between two. she slaps the side of the first one, a nice smokey brown colour "380 gold, this ones ol' big martha, hardtack wood, pretty study good for travel, little heavy though so it might not move as fast, bigger windows-" she slaps the side of the other caravan, a more honey coloured wood "400 gold, this ones a renegade make, little slimmer but the roof opens up, wrenwood so it's still pretty study but she goes a little faster, spiked wheel spokes, arren velvet interior-" she continues listing off small minutate you dont quite understand Psalm: Psalm has a vested interest in vehicles and rarely travels in caravans so he listens with unfiltered interest. Finn: "only 400 gold?" finn makes a gay little wrist motion and keeps his hat pulled down with his other hand, sun be damned "we'll go with that one of course" <- deciding for the groupPsalm: NOOOOOO WHAT HAVE YOU DONE RICH BOY)

Mars: mars withers a little like he know they've already lost now its so, so over. Psalm: "Well I'm not really sure we need a velvet interior or any such things, but speed is nice." * thinking about the drake * at finns comment he goes "Only? Are you offering to foot the bill?" Finn: finn raises an eyebrow and makes an offended gay sound "ha? me? foot the bill? i could, of course! but seeing as youve done nothing to earn such a gesture from me, i'd be a fool to do it. we are 9 people, this will not hurt anyones wallet" he looks at psalm like hes stupid and cant do math Plum: "speak for yourself," plum mutters Han: han internally like why would we wanna earn a gesture from you…? Psalm: "T'was a jest milord," he says nonchalantly, before turning to the store owner. "Any way I can convince you to drop the price a bit?" He smiles at her Woodworker: the woman folds her arms and shakes her head "nah, i go lower than that i start losing out" she points a thumb at finn "sides seems like ser here was good for it" Psalm: Psalm just shrugs, "Worth a try." At least they got paid by those crewmen… at mars he says "Since you're here as a guide with no real explanation of our plans, don't worry about the caravan payment. We'll split it among the 8 of us." Mars: mars rn

Plum: "huh, i like that decision. good on you," plum says, though they're not happy about not being able to get the price lower Finn: "huh? and yet hes to use it? surely you jest" Mars: "If we manage to get that drake, you're free to take from my share of that." Very firmly saying he'll at least take a cut of that after finn's little comment. Psalm: "Why would I joke about that? Its just the truth." Confused.. then at mars "Works for me." Finn: "because" finn starts and gestures vaguely at mars "if he does not pay his share, he should simply trail after the caravan on foot" he looks at mars now, eyeing him up and down briefly "built for it, im sure. thats what relying on charity gets you" Mars: BLINKING. WAS HE NOT HIRED FOR THIS WHAT IS THIS SUDDEN EMPLOYEE HARASSMENT. Psalm: "I have no idea what you're trying to insinuate there, but it's only an extra 6 gold split eight ways, so I'm sure it won't be putting you too much off budget." Plum: "honestly, what the fuck are you talking about…?" plum just raises a confused eyebrow..? Han: "dont be dick" han yawns from where shes leaning on the caravans "we are group, we go as group" Finn: finn grimaces like in one of the edgeworth sprites. ugh! damn psalm for attacking his one weak spot! if he continues to argue about the 8 gold, it will put a real dent in his pride…… the one thing he cant argue against "it wouldnt……" he mutters "i only thought it fair that those who want to travel with the caravan would pay for it, clearly a sentiment not shared by you lot" he raises an eyebrow back Han: "dont care, we're the ones who need him for travel, not the other way around" this hurts her pride btw but she would rather hurt finn rn Psalm: "It's not like we're traveling with him forever, and it'll be our caravan long after the fact. Why would he pay for it?" Finn: he wants to say that a fee would be in order then, for the temporary use, but he doesnt want to embarass himself by going on about it any longer honestly, so he just side eyes psalm Psalm: Psalm just gives him a smug look like heh…

Plum: "that's not all you're saying though, is it?" plum frowns. "you can make your sentiments without being rude. like you're not relying on charity right now." Finn: "im relying on contracted work" he waves them off dismissively and then looks at mars "i shall settle the matter now then. clearly ive forgotten my manners. please, excuse me, our esteemed guide! i shall be so forward and pay your share" he smiles condescendingly even though he has noooo ground to do so Mars: "… I appreciate it." He he wants to argue back but its not like he's got any bargaining power right now, he'd rather take a little dissing than leave everyone else to fend for themselves out there. (They probably could… entertains the thought to himself) Finn: finn is a little surprised at the lack of bark, thinks him a coward and boring for it, but right now its not too much of a downside so he nods in agreement "my pleasure" he looks at the rest "there we have it. are you all happy now?" Psalm: "We wouldn't have to be worrying about any extra charity or costs or fees if you didn't immediately decide the going price was enough yknow…" Psalm like man cimm is not gonna be happy when he hears this Han: han looks at this tension and just shrugs n goes "aye" Psalm: Psalms already long stopped paying attention, instead trying to figure out if they should just use the money from the airship crew before splitting it… Rokka: Rokka just looks mildly uncomfortable with finn and the tension with the group

Plum: "no, i don't think you know what you're relying on… but that's fine, i guess. you've already gone and cost us more money on this fuckin' wagon." plum sighs, not really expecting much from finn re this kind of thing so they're content to move on, especially when they get waved off, which really annoys them, but they don't want to argue in front of mars. Finn: finn raises an eyebrow again, surprised to hear plum swear 'at' him directly "we got compensated in shorewater well enough" Plum: "uh huh" they say Finn: finn has the creeping suspicion that something has gone wrong here, but hes more pissed off at plum specifically to notice how uncomfortable the group as a whole is "no point arguing any longer, right?" finn hisses and looks through the round again "ill stand in for keva and cimmorro, so just take care of yourselves yes?" Plum: plum ignores him and just replies to psalm, saying "yeah, i have it"

The party all make to hand over their portions of the payment (vinny included) as they notice the woman's wandered back to the front of the booth as she waited for the argument to finish.

Upon approach she checks through it all and nods. Rummaging around she hands the party four sets of keys.

Woodworker: "for the doors" before she gestures to the back of the stall again "you can pick it up later or take it now if you want if uh… you all plan on dragging it together i suppose"

The party ponder their next course of action as the morning ebbs on...

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Notes

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 The Party has purchased a Sweet Ride🚗 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 The Party have obtained Ruber and Ratnaraj 🐴🐴 💎Cimmoro and 🗡Keva have obtained 🍩Sweets

#recaps #smile

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