#Everybody loves me cause I’m two faced/Cause I pretend that nothing’s wrong | Strawbeet “Straw” the Quokka

[reflections-of-mobius]

Because I can,...thoughts on who would dress as what for Halloween.

Vampire, whether pastel or not, who even knows. Probably similar to this outfit, save she'd also get contacts, some fake blood splatters near her mouth, and just have fun hissing at people. For those who can't see the outfit- think 'victorian vampire' with a dash of detective.

Semi-sexy pirate costume, probably a mix of a man's and a woman's outfit, since they'd want the feminine proportions but the masculine attire itself. Probably had to commission it, thank stars for making funds as a construction worker and protector of the city.

Fire captain. Mate doesn't really trust that any outfit they wore would look 'nice'. Would let the cats they look after at the cafe tear holes in it throughout their shift, no doubt. Mate doesn't mind or care.

Middle right. She'd claim it was a 'healer', no doubt. Honestly, Fin just strikes me as the type to wear witch-hunter outfits despite being a self-proclaimed witch.

Enderman from Minecraft. Absolutely just uses the whole 'stare at and they go wild' to disappear the moment he's spotted. Claims it's just 'really good visual affects'.

Hilariously, wine god costume. Even though the mate definitely has a low alcohol tolerance. However, it would semi-match with Bless, so they'd be happy.

Forced to wear a costume by some of his 'coworkers' (fellow agents). They somehow managed to convince him to wear a sexy cop costume, though Rust doesn't really get the intent behind it.. Xey're mostly in this to get its fellow agents to shut it.

A couples' costume with Tempest. He'd be the frozen king to Tempest's burning queen.

Sexy valhalla prince. Of course, he'd save that for later in the night....at the start, the top is replaced with a chain-link chestplate, though he does keep the cape (and gains a sword + scabbard- no not that sword, mind outta the gutter).

Wants to wear a costume, but he's afraid of being spotted by anyone. Wouldn't dare to wear one at the temple or anywhere near it while in disguise, either.

A couples' costume with Azure. She'd be the blazing queen to Azure's freezing king.

Good luck, she can change her form at will, so if she wants any costume change throughout the night, she'll get it instantly. Defaults, however, to a lizard witch.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Tag dump for the "Cult" Leader, Strawbeet- or as they're known to the Chaos Temple...

Barry.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Anonymous asked:

for Strawbeet, strawberry + hc! seemed fitting :p

[Send me hc + a word of your choosing and I’ll write a headcanon relating to that word! | Accepting!]

Strawbeet finds strawberries to be rather middle-of-the-road when it comes to fruit- he far prefers grapes.

[reflections-of-mobius]

@thehordemultimuse asked:

🖋 with... honestly any of my muses with yours

[Send 🖋 or ( ‘PLOTS’ ) for me to tell you a couple potential plot ideas I have for our muses. | Accepting!]

You already know my plans for Tenebrosity and Hope, but still, may as well write them down, yeye~?

Hope and Ten slowly developing into a romance, but feelings won't even be realized until during the event, if not after.

Ten trying to be fashionable since Hope is??? And failing miserably. Mate's got no clue-

Picking out outfits together. Like- please-

To be honest I do wanna do the three meeting up at a bar somewhere (coincidental).

But what if that led into the first major event of Wielders of Chaos?

Like- they're all sitting there just talking (well. Rust is dying but same difference-) and Rust suddenly gets a notification from G. U. N., and then there's a bright fireball outside.

And it just launches the trio into their first event? Of course, that'd have to be after setting up which of the others have which Emeralds and whatnot.

Shark Bite and Rust each in a situation that's dangerous for them and having to receive help from the other? (Shark Bite drowning, Rust trying to fight despite his weakness being almost at max).

Honestly I just crave a bit more of Hope and Tempest getting along as fellow fire-wielders it'd be fun-

The dynamic????? Mother and daughter?--- At least that's how it felt in the past, if not fellow angst-machines. XD

Honestly why not throw CopyCat at Strawbeet it'd be funny.

Fellow transformers/disguise-wielders!

Strawbeet trying to keep Copycat away from their gang/away from the Chaos Temple, would happen.

Just let the disguise-wielders bond, all I ask-

Beyond that...who knows! You know I'm down for plenty with ya, mate.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Lil thought process. Lil one.

Wears gloves while doing dishes: Fin, Cinn, Node, Rust, Tempest.

Doesn’t wear gloves while doing dishes: Arwen, Murk, Strawbeet, Bless.

The fuck’re dishes?: Tenebrosity.

[reflections-of-mobius]

[Hard to-!] Strawbeet dodged another swipe. He could feel the blade brush by his chest- it had come dangerously close to nicking them. They were already running on borrowed adrenaline from that first slice. Crimson dripped to the ground as the acolytes cowered, the guard in acolyte's garb smirking as she twisted the blade in hand- before launching forward again.

"You'll pay for inhibiting the Chaos Temple, heathen!"

Strawbeet's mouth formed a thin line as they jumped back. He had to get his spear!- But they couldn't get close, not with all the swipes and having to make sure no hits risked coming near the acolytes. The only reason the guard wasn't was undoubtedly because of the acolytes 'use' to the temple.

"STAY AWAY FROM BEETS!" A shield fuzzed into existence- static-loaded, but there. Another slash of metal- and it exploded into shards.

"I'LL KILL YOU ALL!" The acolytes screamed in panic. He was as close to their spear as they'd get-! Strawbeet dove, grabbing the handle and tugging. It came out of the wall with a heavy SNAP, the tip broken- probably somewhere in the wall proper. Not enough time. They felt it smack into the other's chest- they'd probably bought themself a few seconds on accident. It wasn't something Strawbeet could afford to waste.

Whilst Dan was confident he had control now out here, hearing the commotion going on in his ear left him worried, keeping an eye on the guards receiving medical treatment in case they had the idea of going for a round two when enough of them were able again. If he left them be to go and back up Strawbeet who knows what they might get up too.

At least Jewel had already responded....hopefully it wouldn't take them long to get to them. Still it didn't stop that nagging concern in his head before he made a decision. [I'll be there too, just stay back and be safe. Don't take any risks.] It had been going well so far and the last thing they needed was a serious injury to occur, especially to Strawbeet who'd been nothing but kind to him since his arrival.

He wouldn't say a word to the other guards, only giving the ones who were watching him cautiously a warning glance before turning to leave them be and quickly moving to the temple itself. Hoping inwardly that he'd given them enough doubts second guess attempting a rally, not just from sheer force but he'd been merciful after all.

Failing that, enough injuries to keep them busy.

[reflections-of-mobius]

The commander wasn't listening. Not even for a second as they tried desperately to stand. He couldn't let this thing live. The Emeralds would never forgive him. This thing- it opposed the society he wanted to desperately to see. So that was why he still clung to his dagger, still tried so hard to stand- only for the demon to grab him, lifting him to his feet- to hear that voice that would undoubtedly resonate in his nightmares.

And then all went dark.

For Strawbeet, that was the moment he felt fire along his side. They spun, red eyes snapping to the 'acolyte' who'd been amongst the others. This one appeared a bit older- and was wielding a blade. They moved to draw their spear- only for the memory to hit that they'd thrown it to get rid of the guards outside. They didn't have a weapon.

[Guard among the acolytes!] Was all he could get out before the dagger- already slightly wet with his own blood- was slashing towards his muzzle. Strawbeet jumped back as the acolytes all whimpered and shook. They'd known. They'd probably been threatened. His eyes snapped back to the 'acolyte' who'd been planted.

At least this one wouldn't get back to the base.

The guards who had witnessed Dan taking out their commander with a single hit all glanced between one another...before those with medical knowledge began to stand- warily pacing towards their fallen comrades, those who had passed out or had suffered injuries from the fight. A few had physical cuts and gashes from when the shield had been broken, but thankfully, there was nothing major.

[You gotta be kidding me...!! On my way!] Jewel called over the headset. Strawbeet leapt to the side, barely dodging a swipe at their eye.

Hearing his team's communications, there was a brief smile as he rose a hand up to speak again. Still keeping an eye on the commander on the ground in front of him as they fought their own weakness. [Alright, Glad to hear it, Nice job everyone.]

Of course the relief of knowing there were no issues were short lived as he knew he needed to deal with this stubborn guard.

In most other circumstances the commander's willpower would have been something he found genuinely commendable, but it was a shame that it was wasted on this cult. The demon-hog sighed and shook his head.

"I don't expect you to trust me at all, but what other choice do you have? Look at you, you can hardly pull yourself up." Seeing that the other guards were down but watching, he had to ask himself the question, did he make an example and risk reigniting any flame in their hearts? Or did he be merciful and hope the others would respect it enough to not get up again. Better yet, maybe strike some level of sense in them.

He began to step around the commander, mostly so they couldn't so easily attempt striking at him with that dagger whilst grabbing a hold of them by the nape, lifting them up slightly until they were on their knees. "Since you won't let yourself listen to sense, I'll help you, don't worry, you'll live but its gonna sting when you wake up." Before delivering a swift concentrated chop to their shoulder to knock them out.

Looking over at the other guards he walks towards them with their commander's limp frame still being gripped, he'd pause a slight distance before dropping their leader down in front of them and then taking several steps back. "He's alive for those among you who are concerned, If there's someone with medical skills here, help your allies, I won't stop you. But my warning from earlier still stands. Until me and my friends here leave....do not cause trouble."

[reflections-of-mobius]

There was an explosion from the tower- green and purple smoke billowing out before a crackly laugh filled the radio.

[Hell yeah! I got the tower-guards, no help needed here!] Though he'd admittedly missed most of the fight- he'd been able to spot the whirlwind while he was dealing with the guards. There'd be no more missiles fired- this mission was as good as done, in his eyes.

The warrior that had led the charge- the commander- glared daggers up at Dan.

"Mercy....from a demon?..." He spat blood onto the ground, their eyes filled with nothing but vitriol and hate. "...how in Chaos am I supposed to trust your word, beast?...you'll just down as all the second I let you roam free,...no,...I cannot allow it...I cannot allow you,...to leave this battlefield alive." It would seem he planned to stubbornly cling to his morals. However, his fellow guards,...had all stayed down, all ears laid flat, all eyes on the two and their exchange.

The leader's arm was shaking as they tried to stand. They had to defeat this thing,...for Mother Gile....--- But their vision was wavering, spots dancing. They'd put so much power into that shield, and it had been broken...what chance did they have now, battered as he was?

Strawbeet rushed into the room that he'd spotted, red hues landing on the massive group of huddled 'acolytes'- barely kids, mobians and humans alike, those trapped here by Mother Gile's orders. They raised their hands, a small smile crossing their face.

"Hey--- it's alright, I'm on your guys' side..." A few steps closer, a few hopeful looks from ratty-robed others,.. "...let's get you all out of here..." They turned slightly to speak into the radio.

[All good, I've found the acolytes. I'll be out in a minute or two.]

As the defence fell and the winds blew about violently from such a clash, causing the defenders to scatter and fly about from the force of it even the demon-hog spent the moment trying to block the winds from getting into his eyes with all that pesky sand flying about and by the time it had died down he was almost covered head to toe in sand!

Whilst shaking himself about to try knocking it off Dan would begin to speak. "This is Omen, checking in." Raising a hand up to the earpiece. "Its been silent on here, the rest of you ok? Everything is under control out here. I can back you up if needed." Figuring he'd offer the opportunity to help out while it appeared like most of these defenders that had been on him were currently downed.

Azure eyes would come across the ring leader who was drawing their dagger, recognising them only from them being the loudest in their proclamations previously and seeing that his help wasn't rallying quickly, Dan figured it might be best to take care of them and prevent further attempts as he began to walk over towards them. "I think I've been patient enough with you lot." He'd say to them as he got closer.

"I've given you plenty of chances to give up, walk away or just surrender." Finally pausing as he now stood over the downed fighter. "So let's both be serious now." He leans in a little closer, staring into their stubborn eyes.

Dan knew he was likely wasting his time considering he could see just how much hatred the leader seemed to have towards him, watching them clinging onto the dagger, but he hoped they at least has some level of care or sense towards his comrades before speaking a little louder so the other guards nearby could hear him too if they were still awake.

"Your going to stay down and order the others to do the same, if you do not, I'm going to deliberately start hurting you and you'll see how much I've been holding back! I'm not unreasonable however, do this and I promise you, I will not touch you or them. You've fought and you lost, that's all it needs to be.....if it escalates further? That's your decision and fault now."

[reflections-of-mobius]

The remaining soldiers were doing their best to not be swayed. They had to stay strong. They had to stay together. Only together, did they have a chance in Hell of winning. The leader had no room for error- eyes narrowing, fixing on the monstrous entity before them all. He had to be of a singular mind- he had to wipe out this scourge.

"WE WILL EMERGE VICTORIOUS!" There was what the leader could only consider a choir of cries around him. He was pouring his all into this spell- every last drop of Chaos Energy, leaving just enough to keep himself alive. He was sure his subordinates were doing the same.

The entire group charged into a standstill, bodies catching as the singular 'hog held his own. Another missile was fired from the tower- but this one was knocked away by a split-second flash of green, and a laugh from Jewel. The wind was kicking up sand and dust, a whirlwind forming as the energy crackled. There was a violent SCREECH-

KRCK!

KRRRRRK---

"NO!"

----KTSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

Strawbeet leapt to the wall, just as several charges went off. They didn't have time for hesitancy- they had to move. Red hues flashed for a split-second as the illusion began to falter- before they leaped again.

"OVER THERE!"

"NO THERE-!"

"OVER HERE!"

And the panicked scream of 'WHAT'S GOING ON' as Strawbeet heard something shatter outside. But he couldn't afford to stop. He was nearly at the guards- gathering energy.

'TRIDENT.' A magical blast hit the three guards- smashing them into the wall, and the third was sent crashing into the room beyond. There were quiet, startled yelps. Strawbeet's spear clattered to the ground as the guards slumped.

Outside, the guards were sent flying. Even the commander- who landed in the dust and the sand as the wind tore and swirled, reaching desperately for his dagger. Crimson dripped from his mouth, and his chest was burning- but he couldn't allow that thing to leave this battlefield alive.

The demon-hog watched amusedly as the group couldn't seem to decide between standing or fleeing, even adding on a small. "See, those are the smart ones." As he pointed at the ones running away, sure enough going by his 'promise' to let them leave. Remaining steadfast as he observed those who stood their ground began to combine their magics and shields.

If it wasn't a battle he would have taken more time to admire the beautiful colours shining from their hold, if nothing else it looked impressive enough that it would give him trouble considering he had no inherent ability to shift chaos energy itself. This was going to go down to raw power!

"If your doing this for chaos emeralds, pretty sure they wouldn't approve....I'll give you points for the effort though, this looks pretty cool." The aura emanating from his arm began to glow brighter, clearly building up energy itself as he readied himself for a stronger attack to attempt breaking through this new defence.

"Your earlier defences were pretty easy, let's see if this one is better....you got any other tricks if it fails?" The demon-hog would continue to playfully mock them as his own energy clearly began to manifest brighter, it might not have seemed as impressive by an outsider standard but any with a connection to the darker energies themselves could tell it was getting sorely concentrated around him to perhaps worrying levels.

All before he lunged forward, striking at this newly formed defence with what he'd currently mustered, it didn't shatter much like the ones from earlier but the question was, could it withstand the constant growing pressure as he pushed more and more against it, the winds even starting to kick up wildly around them as he continued to put more strength behind it.

If it were to fall, its obvious there was going to be a scattering of men about the place from the force of it.....

[reflections-of-mobius]

The soldiers, for their parts, were shaking like leaves in a storm. All of them had heard stories of what devils of Dark Gaia did- but none had ever witnessed the force of one. A few of the braver were beginning to raise their shields- trying to step forward from the huddled mass. They were barely forcing their ways out of their own terror. This thing- this thing was a monster.

Strawbeet had surged into the temple- he had to find the acolytes. The prisoners. They could practically feel the lines of the crystalline structure on their back- initially a joke against the temple, but now, it rang as a reminder. They didn't dare look back amidst the explosions and sounds of crunching metal and cracking Chaos Energy. He bolted down each hallway- a small spear in hand, barely kept above dragging on the stone pathway.

'Of course it's not that easy...!' They scrambled to a stop. Before the archway- the last of the ones down this hall- were three priests, each with hands raised. Chaos Energy crackled and flowed- ready to launch at any moment. The small puffs of smoke from their footsteps had no doubt been spotted- the soft noises of their running...

"SHOW YOURSELF!"

Outside, the guards were in total disarray.

"HOLD TOGETHER, MEN!" One of them growled to the others. "WE CAN'T BE SWAYED BY A DEVIL OF DARK GAIA!" It would seem they were sticking with that narrative- two of the soldiers had fallen to Dan's attack. Jewel was bolting for the tower- intent on taking out those that kept launching magical missiles. There wouldn't be armaments on this battlefield for long, not if he had a say.

However, several were staring at Dan as if they'd just seen Dark Gaia himself rip out of the ground and proclaim their end was nigh. One had even fainted- but most were beginning to gather, shields slowly morphing together with faint crackles and snaps.

"STAND FOR THE CHAOS EMERALDS!"

"Fuck this--!" The stragglers (who had indeed been utterly terrified), bolted into the desert. They wanted nothing to do with this- surely, the emeralds wouldn't deny their spots in the afterlife for this, right??? But they didn't want to die--!

The remainders, like a singular organism- charged. A massive wave of rainbow-shifting Chaos Energy, bearing down on Dan. It crackled and popped- the energies of various Chaos Energy wielders shifting just beneath the shell. It was strong- at the easiest, a means of intimidation.

That had worked better than expected in some ways, at least their attention was solely on him for the time being, shame trying to get them to just make this easy wasn't as successful, even if fear was a clear element in their hearts it had just made them all the more stubborn from the looks of things.

"I'm really not a devil of Dark Gaia, but sure, think whatever you want......" He'd respond to their yells casually before grinning.

".......I'm far worse." Of course he was going to have some fun with it, this was far from the first time some had tried to kill him and it wouldn't be the last most likely.

With Jewel's attack knocking some of them off guard, it gave him some time to make a similar motion that he did only moments ago, using his fingers to influence the shadows of the night before the darkness would once again rise up in a larger mass, blocking the subsequent three missiles, more bangs following suit before the shadows returned to normal moments as if they hadn't even been there in the first place

To further incentivise their attention away from possibly noticing Strawbeet's previous movements or trying to retaliate against Jewel's throw, He'd begin to deliberately move closer to the other guards, stopping just short of their shields and within range of their own attacks.

"Cmon, if you want to slay the monster you've labelled me as, your not going to destroy me by hiding behind your shields like cowards, no one going to try and be a hero?"

Of course he was more than ready to defend himself and counter should any of them dare to actually try. It was an obvious bait but again, Dan was just having fun with it given their natural panic and accusations. "Last chance, if you run away now I'll let you go. If not, I'm going to deal at least double the amount of pain you do so openly to others!"

[reflections-of-mobius]

Jewel's eyes shot upward, watching as the darkness suddenly consumed a section of the air- and then he heard an all-resounding BANG as the missile of magic exploded against the darkness. A smirk crossed his face- surging forward, shield projected over one arm as he smirked. Okay, now he was hoping that Dan stayed around for future fights!

The guards who had seen the spectacle yelped- trying to dodge the hedgehog's attack. One even screamed 'DEVIL!!!!' in a panic as Dan's hand smashed into his shield- only for it to break. Chaos Energy shattered into shards, the spell- and all the energy used for it- essentially wasted from the demon-hog's 'warning'. The sound of the shield breaking- the massive CRCK- filled the otherwise-silent desert. All the guards went still as stone, even as Jewel slammed into one of them with a wild laugh.

Another missile shot from the tower- followed by two more. The guards tried to jump back- anything to regroup.

"We need reinforcements!!!"

"It's a devil of Dark Gaia!!!!"

"KILL IT!!"

Strawbeet rushed forward as the guards attempted to rally- a good chunk of them shaking together, shields all turned towards Dan. They slipped into the temple, the only evidence of their existence, the patches of indented sand that appeared several seconds after they were already several feet ahead.

"INCOMING!" Jewel yelled. He threw his shield- whacking two of the guards. The missiles were aiming straight for Dan.

That was one way to make an entrance, in most other cases Dan would probably have made a joke over it but considering the job, this wasn't the time for it as he watched the defenders spring to action, no hesitation at all on their part before that jettisoned light came soaring towards Jewel at high speed.

Both wanting to ensure their protection and to make his own presence known, with a flick of his fingers, the shadows below Jewel began to suddenly spring upwards, creating a makeshift barrier in the way of the missile before the resulting clash caused a bright bang leaving both elements void for the time being.

"Its time for you all to surrender, your outmatched here!" The demon-hog's voice boomed out in warning as he began to approach, while not as fast as Jewel, that bright emanating purple glow coming from his arm and illuminating through that darkness of the night to give them a clear sight of him as he walked out into the open, holding his hands out tauntingly.

"I will give you one warning." He'd continue before dashing forth at high speed towards one of the shields and swinging his forsaken limb into it as hard as he could! "The next blows will land on you! So be smart!"

[reflections-of-mobius]

"Damn, you're fun!" Jewel laughed. "Keep this up, and Wen'Ta might be oughta a job!" He was kidding,...but the startled 'HEY!' from Wen'Ta merely earned the rebellious mobian a laugh. "I hope you can come on a few more missions- provided you don't crap out, tonight."

"Like I said back in the bar- you don't owe me anything, just...consider it a friend helping a friend." Though he was sure the bar-tender outside had paid Dan, or was holding rings as a means to pay him...the hedgehog didn't strike them as the type to take up a job like this for fun.- And the bar tender wasn't one to not pay for outside help- favors never really counted in that crazy mobian's eyes.

"It's gonna be a real party!" Jewel beamed as he moved to land a hand on the other's shoulder- guiding him deeper into the hidden section of the building. Tonight would be FUN.

[]

Strawbeet breathed in slowly, feeling their Chaos Energy shift through their being. They had to be careful...their illusions were *top notch*, but even they couldn't stop a noise...so for now, they had to put their faith in Dan and Jewel. Their eyes were closed, ears twitching as they listened- the spell slowly slipping over them, inch by inch.

|| Let's cause some mayhem. ||

Jewel's chuckle cut off on the radio. From a nearby rock, green flashed into existence- and then a wild cry as the lamb jumped over the makeshift hiding-spot, and charged. There were at least six glowing shields that came to life in response- each a differing color, but all with the same symbol on their fronts- seven gems, surrounding one big one in the center.

"WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOO!!!"

He was charging straight down the middle- ready to shatter those ranks. The temple the group was raiding stood proud, a short tower nearby seemingly devoid of life...before a glowing streak of light fired out- aiming straight for Jewel. It whistled through the night air- a missile, a shooting star- with the only wish to kill.

"Even if I was captured, I've not known any containment capable of holding me so far." He'd respond with a smirk, be that statement a cause for concern or just an added layer of security to the group would be their own choice to make of it but the demon-hog was confident enough that wouldn't become an issue in the mission.

As his attention returned to Strawbeet, offering another smile seeing that they appeared to be easing up again, Dan shook his head. "Nah, you've done enough for me tonight, don't you worry about it. If anything I'm the one that owes you still technically."

The expression slightly shifted to a more serious one as he was informed about his new tasking for the raid, it sounded easy enough. "Break shields, break the guards, cause a racket, you got it." A part of him already having an idea on how he could draw attention to himself.

"Heh, I'm used to working alone but no worries. It'll be nice to have a teammate for once, lead the way." Tonight was going to be interesting one way or another.

[reflections-of-mobius]

Jewel didn't stumble back, though his arm did twitch for a moment as Dan broke the shield. He wasn't pouring tons of his Chaos Energy into it- but going based on the amount he'd seen the Chaos Temple mages use. A smirk formed on his face as Dan broke through the barrier. It was by no means flimsy for a guard of the temple..so to have his power easily be above that, not even winded by the attempt...

"Pffff, no. You're on the team, tonight." He grinned. "We could use you while Wen'ta's recovering- just try not to get yourself captured while we're out there." Though Jewel was just about certain the Chaos Temple would be labeling Dan a 'demon of Dark Gaia' based on that limb of his alone.

Strawbeet blinked- suddenly pulled out of their worried fog by the hand drifting before their eyes. Bloody-red hues flicked upwards to the demon-hog's expression, the frown of concern that had been on their muzzle slowly fading.

"I--- yeah, I'm fine." He stood up slowly, a little shaky from the adrenaline that had been pumping through his veins a minute ago. "...I don't know how to thank you, Dan.- But...I guess drinks are on me, when the raid's over?" They offered a small, shaky smile. They'd be fine when it was all said and done- they just...needed a few minutes to recover from the whirlwind of the last two.

"Jewel can show you our gear.- Since you'll be replacing Wen'ta, it's gonna be up to you to deal with the shields and the guards who make them... You'll need to cause as much of a ruckus as you can, so I can sneak in and free the acolytes. Jewel's gonna be your backup." Falling back into something resembling normalcy...that, he could do.

"Don't worry, the shields I conjure aren't like those flimsy temple foils." Jewel nodded his head. "C'mon- I've got an earpiece with your name on it."

Dan would remain silent as they looked between each other, waiting to see what the decision would be before one of them seemed to accept his little challenge, bringing up that unusual wall of green in front of them as they explained their 'terms' so to speak.

"Fine with me." Raising his good hand up whilst he spoke, proceeding to gently tap the surface a moment to get a better gauge on just how tough it was, it was sturdy to be sure, before thrusting his arm suddenly towards it a second time with enough force to shatter it with relative ease which only served to reinforce the demon-hog's confidence.

"Oh if this is how strong their defences are, this is hardly going to be a concern. Does that satisfy your curiosity or do you need any further tests?" He'd ask the lamb, though within the moment he hadn't noticed any Strawbeet's quiet words or even the slightest notion of their innermost thoughts but after having 'passed' the demon-hog would look on over at the Quokka, shooting a smile at them.

"You ok there bud?" Dan would begin to wave his hand just in front of them as if to try snapping them out of what he perceived as a trance. "Nothing to be spooked about y'know? Honestly its fine."

[reflections-of-mobius]

Strawbeet couldn't believe it. If Selim had known that Wen'ta was too hurt for tonight- then why hadn't he--? The quokka was practically shaking. They didn't have much of a choice- either he sought help from Dan, who seemed like the only option...or those innocent mobians and humans were going to die. He took in a breath as the demonic hedgehog easily shot down their attempts to ward him off.

"...what...?" Fighting the Chaos Temple was no simple task. And here Dan was, willing to jump straight into it. Their eyes dilated slightly, flicking between their allies and then to the other- seeing the others already more than willing, nodding for him to accept---! He blinked, attention drifting between the two limbs.

Dan didn't seem the type to lie,...

But they didn't want to risk it---....

Did they have a choice?

"Alright! If you're that confident, I'm sure you'll have this no problem." Jewel raised an arm. There was a small spark- and then a flash, a green semi-translucent wall appearing between the lamb and the hedgehog. He grinned. "If you can break this- you're in. It's about as strong as steel, which is about how hard the shield spells are gonna be on the guards."

Strawbeet's ears flicked.

"...thank you." Whether Dan passed the test or not...the fact that a stranger was willing to help in this plight...it made a small part of the quokka feel lighter. The resistance had been under their command for years now- and it felt like it was always shrinking. Members being captured or converted- or just leaving. It had grown in its early days,....and then faltered...and now- there were so few left.

"Of course, if you can't, I'm just gonna push you back out into the bar area." Jewel winked. "Sooooo! Do your best! Licer, Wen'ta- can you two get the gear for tonight? And then rest. Something tells me we're gonna do just fine."

"I don't know who that is, but if its the bartender, then yeah." He'd answer Jewel, returning the smile in the moment before attention shifted to the familiar face.

While the warnings were appreciated, it didn't mean too much for Dan who assumed this would just be another simple mission of sorts. So even as Strawbeet would try to somewhat convince him otherwise it fell over deaf or more accurately stubborn ears.

"Ehh, trust me, I have enemies everywhere, one more won't bother me, sides, its not like I live here so they can't exactly hunt me down and if they do, they're more than welcome to try." Giving the Quokka a slight grin as if to try and reaffirm some sort of confidence.

There was a concern that raised in his mind however, magic? for all of his strengths and abilities, that was one aspect he never had a answer for.

"Look, if you just need a 'muscle' of sorts, I can fill that role. I might not look it, but I can cause serious damage with just my fists, that includes the good one." Briefly motioning to his normal limb. "If you need something broken with a good whack, I can do it."

While there was no way to immediately prove just how strong he was, he'd look at them as if welcoming the chance for someone to ask him to show it in some form to prove his words weren't just that.

[reflections-of-mobius]

A few ears twitched- but it was ultimately Dan's voice that caused the group to actually look. They hadn't felt threatened by the other's presence- after all, they only felt threatened by those who seemed haughty...or were actively concealing their Chaos Energy, save for the brief flickers that hinted towards the trainings of the temple.

Strawbeet spun, their eyes snapping to find the hedgehog they'd helped earlier. They blinked, their attention flicking between the group and Dan- or, he supposed, Omen.

"I---are you- sure? I mean, I can't send in..." They shook their head.

"Selim sent you, didn't he?" Jewel stepped forward with a small smile. Strawbeet's ears twitched. Selim must have known Wen'ta was injured...had he...? "Well Dan, we're more than happy to have the help! And I'm sure Wen'ta would be happy to hear it- yeah?" He glanced back with a grin, to where the snake-mobian was currently resting. She had a large gash down her arm, eyes unfocused- one looked like it was still dilated from something.

"So long as he can throw a solid punch...but that aura's something else."

Strawbeet's head was beginning to spin.

"Wait--- wait!" They raised their hands. "---Before we even consider it- Dan- Omen- are you sure you're okay with this? I mean, you'd be making an enemy of the Chaos Temple...do you even know how to break a magic barrier?" A part of them wanted- was practically begging- for Dan to join the fight, but...they couldn't risk it. They didn't want another innocent life tainted by this hidden rebellion.

"C'mon Beets! It's a chance to save the acolytes!"

The promise of pay was already enough to get his attention given his current need for it as he looked on in interest at the bartender. "Alright..." More would have been said but given the 'interruption' by another patron and the hushed tone, the demon-hog didn't speak further choosing to simply to finish his own drink.

In the process of doing so and waiting assumedly for the bartender, he'd then notice the note on the paper, reading it before pocketing it before anyone else got any idea to take a cheeky look themselves. Stretching himself out briefly, the demon returned to his feet, glancing over at the bartender and giving a nod before following the instructions.

Of course, he wasn't exactly sure how to open the passageway up when he came up to it.

"Beets, you know we can't make it without Wen'ta."

He'd just about hear on the other side, giving it a push allowing him to enter before it closed up again just as quickly. The noise of such and following footsteps may have even been audible to the group as they discussed what to do.

"You'll save them." If they weren't aware yet, they would be now as the demon-hog walked into view, answering the question as he reached to his pocket and held up the piece of paper. "A raid huh? Well it looks like I'm your new assistance."

"Name's Dan, some call me Omen."

[reflections-of-mobius]

Strawbeet just smiled in return.

"You're welcome.- I hope you have a good time in Sanden." They couldn't get him wrapped up in this..and they wouldn't. They wanted to make sure the strange visitor didn't get pulled into any Chaos Temple nonsense- and they could only guess how long it might be before he found a decent job. It was no attempt on the quokka's part to indebt Dan to them- a thought that hadn't even crossed their mind as they'd slipped away to go check on their friends.

The bartender glanced across the tavern- scanning the crowd for a single face he didn't know. Something in his eyes seemed to twinkle for a moment before he turned his attention back to Dan.

"...it involves a friend of mine. Don't worry, I'll make sure that you're properly compensated." His voice had dropped slightly. He could risk letting that much be overheard- but not much more. He moved to clean a glass on his side of the counter,- drifting for a moment to fill out another customer's order. He passed by Dan as easily as an evening breeze- save for the drifting paper that slowly came to a stop nearby.

"I need some ice!" Another customer called. The bartender exhaled, pulling out a small slip of paper and handing it to the customer. The customer slapped it on the lukewarm tankard- and ice instantly began to form on the outside, the paper slowly shriveling as if it were being burned.

On the paper that had come to stop near Dan, there was a short message.

Help Strawbeet on a raid tonight. 100 rings. Wall behind and to your right.

[]

"But if we have to wait until you heal.." Strawbeet paused. Their teeth were grit as they tried to breathe evenly. All those... "--We can't afford to."

"Beets, you know we can't make it without Wen'ta." Jewel moved, his hand resting on Strawbeet's shoulder. The lamb's eyes were full of concern- trying to pull his friend back from doing something they'd regret.

"But what about those acolytes, Jewel?" Strawbeet's hands clenched into fists. "--What about what'll happen, if we don't get them out of there? What do you think the Chaos Temple'll do if we don't save them?" They couldn't let anyone else fall- they wouldn't. But several mages would be guarding the march across the desert- and their magic... Wasn't enough.

"Oh I can take just about anything, right now, I just need something down my throat." Responding with a chortle, voice still sounding somewhat hoarse with that prior wandering through the desert that even the weakest form of drink was close enough to a fine wine.

As Strawbeet offered to cover the expense of it too the demon-hog looked on in surprise.

"Wha? Really? Wow thanks very much!" That was a lot of kindness in that one stranger, might have been one of a kind even still it wouldn't go underappreciated even if Dan somewhat also felt like he really was indebted to them now over this, even more so than already when money was involved.

In that moment the demon-hog was a little pre-occupied in watching the bartender make his drink as Strawbeet slipped away, all too eager for the sensation of liquid down his throat. It wasn't until another glance or two he realised they'd even gone.

So once the bartender spoke up, naturally curious azure eyes would meet their own. "That would depend on what it is exactly, but I'm happy to listen to what you need." Taking the moment to finally take his drink, practically gulping it down.