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dndfuckhouse · 1 year ago

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Session 55 - Shopping in Sunlight

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> 🎵 Cliff Town / Spyro Reignited Trilogy OST

After wandering around for a little bit the party soon makes to meet back up again at a pre-discussed point in the marketplace, picking up a few things here and there on the way. Han volunteers to push the caravan do their meet up point, to which the party reluctantly watches occur.

She musters her strength under the hangover and huffs through her nose, bracing her arms on the wooden beams. Its quite impressive a feat, though she idly thinks that she probably wouldn't be able to do this for any truly long period of time. Carting it back to the inn proves doable enough, the group turn a few heads as they walk through dragging the caravan. By the time she sets it down outside of the inn Han's vision is a little blurry and she's sweating hard, that hangover is certainly taking its toll… but they arrive on time to meet Keva and Cimmorro.

Cimmorro: cimms literally just like this realizing what the hell is happening

Keva: "are you…….okay?" Han: hans got her hands on a wall, trying to dry heave silently "im. great." thumbs up Rokka: Pats han Cimmorro: "why did you…..?" he's vaguely gesturing to the caravan almost speechless Han: "………..wh…what else were we gonna…do…?" han's like duh Cimmorro: "leave it? where you bought it? we'd just make our way there?" Finn: "greetings!" finn waves and hops off the caravan gracefully. he looks veeeery proud of their purchase and looks at cimm expectantly Cimmorro: now he's just wide eyed almost gaping at finn, actually speechless. "??????…. you made her do this?" Han: "he said, i could do it, so i did it" trying to play it super cool like she's not still woozy Keva: keva fives finn the stink eye before getting han some water Finn: "there you have it" he gestures vaguely "she volunteered" as she should, he doesnt add "now would you care to inspect our lovely caravan more closely?" Cimmorro: "you are literally about to keel over!" Han "how dare you say that, i am not" shakes Cimmorro: "and none of you felt that this was wrong? no one stopped her?" he feels like he's speaking to children, so close to hitting finn upside the head but stops himself just enough. "fucks sake, lay off of it." then he helps han rest down somewhere nearby 😭what are they doing to our beautiful hungover queens Finn: finn rolls his eyes but doesn't comment further Han: bg han: I SAID IM GOOD AND I DID IT CAUSE IM BEST

Plum: "oh ease off cimm," plum says casually. "you think she'd let us stop her? i already tried to help her with her hangover earlier." plum honestly not seeing the big deal right now Psalm: "She wanted to." He shrugs Rokka: "I trust her! I would help if she wanted it too." He says while busying himself with the luggages Cimmorro: "you all saw her withering like a leaf this morning and thought, 'yeah lets let her do whatever she wants just because she wants to?' very comforting thought," he's visibly displeased. "let finn have a ride too no less, but sure. whatever she wants" Han: han thanks keva for the glass and downs it before snorting and giving cimm a stink eye "alright, im not five, you know. i said i could do it and i did it. no harm.' Plum: "no, i just think han is a grown person like everyone else in this party and can choose to do as they like if they want," plum raises an eyebrow Psalm: "Yes because she's a grown adult." Not seeing the problem Cimmorro: cimm squints his eyes. "and if i told every patient to do what they want because they're old enough I'd have more bodies stocking up the morgue. but clearly we see very different things." he finds all of this inexcusably irresponsible but is ready to turn away from it for his peace of mind. already looking forward to traveling with them with much less personal space than before Rokka: Rokka actually feeling a little bad and letting cimms word sink in his mind a little, fidgeting in his spot "s-sorry…?" He looks at cimm then at han apologetically Plum: "i think you're being a little close-minded, but if you want to play the part of han's mother because you think you know what's right for everyone then what do i really care," plum huffs. they're getting tired of everyone being so haughty for reasons they don't understand. Han: han starts choking after the hans mother part Finn: finn is still mad at plum but thinks this is based btw Keva: "is it close-minded to be worried about a friend's well-being just bc they're the one that made the choice…?" she mumbles more to herself than anything, most surprised about plum not seeing the issue but doesn't press further Plum: "i'm not saying i want han to exert herself carrying our caravan. but if someone wants to do something, what's scolding us all like children gonna do? i think assuming you know what's best for someone is annoying at best, is all." plum groans at keva. usually they leave all this shit alone, but today has been a real pain. "think of it this way, would you be happy if i lectured or belittled you about stealing all the time?" Keva: she snorts "don't you think less of me already?" and leaves it at that Plum: "no, i don't." plum says curtly. but they leave it at that too

Finn: finn walks up to psalm, goes on his tiptoes and whispers "do you think now is a good time to demand cimmorro and keva pay their share? 🤨" hand in front of mouth and everything Psalm: "I don't see why not…? It's your money after all." Finn: finn doesn't want to tell psalm he so badly needs a favor from cimmorro he cant afford to fuck up with him right now but he can say hes not good at reading the mans mood "well, as you know… it never ends well when i talk to him so… i-i wanted to know if you thought id get into trouble right now" Psalm: "Maybe just address it after we hit the road then." Psalm is surprised Finn is even considering the time and place right now Finn: finn pouts a bit and turns that answer over in his head….thatd be fine if it was just cimm, but keva owing him money is something he does not want to sit on for a moment longer than necessary…. he just nervously crosses his arms and fidgets while he thinks……….hmm

Psalm: Psalm just sighs and clears his throat, "Oh come off it Cimmorro. It's not like we're trying to get Han killed so I'm not sure what the issue is, or why some unrelated hypothetical even matters. Anyways, Finn covered the payment share for the two of you so pay him back when you can." he speaks up on his behalf bc he saw finn fidgeting Finn: finn looking at him like 😨 then at keva and cimmorro and he quickly regains his confidence "right… as he said, you two owe me 50gp each" he huffs Keva: keva's honestly confused why everyone isn't seeing cimm's point, but then she makes a clear face of disgust at the thought of giving finn money, even if she knows it's fair Cimmorro: his huffiness is abruptly swept with a clearly clueless "what?" at the mention of owing money. "payment for?" genuine but also looking at finn up and down expecting answers Finn: "the caravan" he says matter of factly and gestures at it, stemming one hand on his hip Cimmorro: "?" he blinks owlishly still just surprised of this outcome. "i think we have some kind of understanding. forgive me if I wasn't clear but i asked that you guys take care of it, as in, you're paying for it?" Finn: "you most certainly werent clear in that regard" finn blinks but quickly realizes he can use this to his advantage "seeing as you have provided the horses though, i would be willing to view this as suitable contribution" he smiles "that only goes for you though, not keva" Psalm: Psalm just looks at him like ???? Really???? but it's not his money so, whatever Cimmorro: "yes, well, i simply thought the fact that i got not only one, but two horses for us would be clear enough," he crosses his arms sort of impatiently. finn being suddenly amicable is suspicious and he feels like he doesn't want to be part of it. "but since it's already come to this just take the coin. I don't want this hanging over my head." he fetches the platinum from one of his pouches and gives it to finn, sealed and done Keva: needing to put all her mental energy into reining in her pride and not throwing the money at finn's feet. she manages to put her share into cimmorro's hand as well Psalm: "Sorry we can't read your mind. I'll try harder next time." Psalm just crosses his arms, not really sure what crawled up Cimms ass and died today. "Now on the topic of paying our guide here," he turns to mars, "would you prefer before or after the job?" Mars: He's just been watching this fight brewing thinking maybe they're not all friends actually 😭 and was about to maybe drag someone to go check out of the inn with him until Psalm asked him that. "How's about half before and half after? Leaves me with my own budget for any supplies too." Hasn't failed him so far. Psalm: "Makes sense to me. I suppose just let us know if you need an advance payment for anything if it comes down to it." Rokka: Rokka is escaping the bad vibes and taking the final luggage inside and just waits in the lobby also he got scolded + hes kind of scared 🫡 Mars: He just nods at that and hangs about awkwardly. "…. I'm gonna go check the luggage situation now…………………….." and he shuffles on out of there right to where rokka is 😭 Vinny: he goes inside to join the two and make sure they're properly checked out

Finn: "oh...huh..." finn is honestly dumbfounded about this and just stares at the platinum like an idiot for a moment before snapping out of it "n-no! i must decline this!" he puts cimms share back in cimmorros hands "i just told you you providing the horses is adequate! it is fair! do you not think me reasonable?" he doesnt acknowledge keva rn bc hes too busy being friendly with cimmorro Cimmorro: cimm is sort of reeling back kind of just unsure on how to take finn's reaction especially after the sour reunion he'd think he'd charge him more for it. he straight up just wants to say no he doesn't think finn is reasonable at all but what good would that do. "just take it!! if you don't want it then give it to someone else! I'll cover their share whatever!" Keva: keva holds her hand out to take cimm's share, more as a joke to piss finn off than anything Finn: finn immediately snatches his hand away, glaring at her before frowning at cimm, clearly upset "i suppose it is at the very least decent of you to be upfront this time" hes still a bit bitter about the inn rooming situation so he just shrugs and pockets it now "…consider the matter settled, then" he just avoids looking at cimm now, wishing he was anywhere else Keva: keva makes one last smirk-sneer before going back to tend to the horses, in her happy place, thriving

Psalm: "I'm starting to think we need an accountant..," Psalm muses aloud, watching the exchange Plum: "if we could just be clearer about our group decisions next time, money won't be an issue." plum frowns. "so let's all do that." Psalm: "Excellent suggestion, so with that in mind, we might as well just use the money we got from the airship crew to pay Mars. It's more convenient than trying to divvy up our own personal funds. Thoughts?" Plum: "fine with me," plum says Keva: "sure" Han: han shrugs in a "cool with me" way Psalm: "I'll tell the others when they return. I suppose all that's left now is to finish packing up the caravan then." Finn: "i didnt hire him" Plum: "are you short on money or something?"

Finn: "quite frankly plum, nothing about me is any of your business, aside from our mission in my hometown" Plum: "i'm not actually asking because i'm worried about your pockets, finn. unless you're saying you wanted to be the guide?" Psalm: "No decision regarding group travel is made in your own. I didn't suggest a guide either, but the group hired him, so the group pays for him-" Finn: finn sighs dramatically and gestures vaguely "what a nuisance you are! i had intended to joke around with psalm, who asked the question….but now i had to tell you instead" Psalm: "Oh." Another sigh, a lot deeper this time. Finn: finn just smiles at him, but its a pretty slimy smile Plum: "ohh, i'm sorry," plum says genuinely. "i thought you were being testy given how this morning's been, it was hard to tell. i'm sure if psalm had heard the joke he'd have loved it." Psalm: "No I wouldn't have," he says sarcastically. Finn: "that doesnt matter. its ruined either way" he deadpans and waves the whole thing off Plum: plum snorts a laugh Psalm: Psalm just looks at him like '_'

The party finished loading the caravan and checking out while Keva reigns the horses to the caravan, settling in to drive them in the front. The group get the vengabus rolling and make their way over to the marketplace with the caravan, keeping to the larger main roads, looking for something akin to a bookstore. The first place they spot resembling something that sells books is a larger library in the area, it seems to be run by the city's jasidian church.

Plum: "getting something to do for the trip psalm?" Mars: "It'd be a while so some light reading could be nice." <- never considered it Plum: "i'm starting to think so too.. it didn't occur to me before." Psalm: "I'm hoping that in-between fighting the drake and fighting the other members there'll be some downtime for reading, yes." Plum: "i figured it was something like that, yeah," tired laugh Finn: "whos staying to watch the caravan?" Mars: "…. I can stay out, don't really need any books." Despite previous convo with psalm and plum. "Though uh, I dunno, bring back something interesting if you find anything." He says to plum and psalm Plum: "sure, got a preference for anything?" Mars: "Nah, not really. I'll leave it to you two." Psalm: Psalm salutes him Rokka: rokka can stay back to watch too! Han: han nudges rokka "you want me to see something good for you? what do you like" o3o Rokka: He shakes his head I think I'm okay! Thank you though" he beams at her Han: the sun.. is so bright…!

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> 🎵 The Merchant / Dead Cells OST

As you enter the large building, you note the Jasidan tapestries and decorations that litter the furniture around you. The clerk at the desk thumbs their hands across a braille tome.

Cintra the Devout Librarian: “Lady's blessings upon you. If you need assistance in tracking down anything specific, don't be afraid to ask any of our acolytes in the building."

Finn: finn is gonna just try to find manga, specifically yaoi (but i dont intend to actually rly buy anything) Chip: you find volume one of banana fish Finn: he flips through it to see if it has any sex in it (not rly important i just felt like describing his bookstore behaviour)

Han: han pops her head out of the shop at rokka "frogs or edible grass" Rokka: He looks at her and tilts his head in confusion "uh?…..f-frogs….?w-why" Han: throws up a thumbs up and walks back in

Han: she gets the book on frogs but decides to walk around some more, accidentally making her way into the more arcane section. shes struggling to read most of the titles, until she comes across a word she knows in common on sight, "astral", piquing her curiosity.

Peering over the contents page and the back, Han ascertains it is discussing the same astral plane she knows, though the part about the differing accounts is interesting. She cant imagine other ways to get there on her own so the concept in itself is curious, she ends up picking up the additional tome.

Cimmorro makes an inquiry into a tome about drakes, picking up an additional tome for their future exploits, while Psalm inquires after one concerning necromancy. Though the book hes directed to seems to be more of a discussion on jasidan necromatic rites.

Cintra: as you bring up the topic the acolyte thinks to herself as she shuffles around a few tomes "weve had a few inquires about that as of late in fact, i have a tome here that could be of assistance in researching draconic beings" she hands you a big thick black book Cimmorro: "I've gotten wind of the news, so i can't say im surprised. but yes, that'll do!" slides the total over

Library Receipt Goosebumps (psalm) Balthazar's Ravings (psalm) Balthazar's Trysts (psalm) A Long Gone Wandering (psalm) Bakaldor's Grass, Tempting? (plum) An Alchemical Zodiac (plum) Malignant Swords and Dark Blades (plum) Photomasta's Weaving Loom (cimmorro) A Tea Drinker's Guide (cimmorro) Drakes, Dragons and Druids - A Biotechnical guide (cimmorro) The Enigma of Astral Projection (han) Friends of Fran (han)

Cimmorro: cimm goes back to the drivers seat of the caravan as soon as hes done buying Keva: keva goes back there too and peeks over at the books he's bought Cimmorro: he splays them over his lap to display and lets her pick what's most intriguing to her at first glance Keva: keva looks at the dragon stuff first bc that's more immediately of interest Cimmorro: he lets her borrow it while explaining what it is. "lucky we got a book about draconics. but it's also about druids? i fail to see the relation but curious all the same" Keva: she thinks back to what vinny said the previous night… how is she supposed to find a blue drake in here if there's no color… "vinny mentioned something about blue dragons and drakes controlling electricity…." she mumbles as she flips thru the pages…. Psalm: Psalm heads to the drivers seat area to keva, "I was looking to see if our necromancy book had a part two but no dice," he says. Cimmorro: "yes, this thing i bought from that merchant on the ship might prove handy to watch out for it since lightning can come with rain sometimes," he plays around with his weathervane orb but keeps to himself with his other books when psalm pops in Keva: she looks up from her flipping and blinks. she didn't even think there would be a part 2 "that's a shame, would've been fun on the long ride" Psalm: "A shame really"

Han: han comes out with her purchases and leans next to wherever rokka is chilling "i know you said u dont want book, but i got one on frogs… its got nice pictures" :3 Rokka: He stares at her with his mouth agape before responding " WOAH SERIOUSLY!? YOU DIDNT HAVE TO- I MEAN THANK YOU AND SORRY OH MAN THATS SO COOL UR SO COOL" his tail wags gradually picking up speed as he rambles on trying to properly thank her surprise gift Han: han noogies him to hide her face from him, clearly embarrassed "STOP THAT… I AM BUT IT JUST ONE BOOK Rokka: He let's out a hearty laugh from her noogies, relieved to know she isn't upset with him about not helping her with the caravan "AND I WILL CHERISH IT UNTIL THE END OF MY DAYS GAHAHA! I cant wait to read it!!!!!!"

Plum: "how are we thinking of splitting the driving?" Mars: "Well who here can drive in the first place." Plum: "oh, here." plum hands him the sword book. "you can read the others too, and psalm got some other ones as well" Psalm: "Let's see, there's horror stories, poems that are also most likely horror, political satire and political romance." Mars: He looks a lil shocked??? "Wait you actually did? Thanks…. Interesting book you got there." He looks the book with the edgy cover and skims a few pages in genuine interest. Plum: "yeah…it's no problem," plum says. they feel kind of bad mars has to awkwardly experience their party dynamic so that's partially why they bought it, but they're happy he seems interested in the book Mars: He seems a little engrossed but eventually puts it away. "I'll give this back when I'm done," miss ebony dark'ness dementia raven way is writing some riveting things about evil swords in there Plum: "no need, i'm not really gonna read it." Mars: He'd feel worse turning it down. "Alright ….. thanks again then." Scratches head. Plum: i'm gonna go ask han if she wants to share books too Han: 🥺 yes "actually, that grass one, i was eyeing for rokka too, haha, im glad u bought it" "i got this one for me" she shows the astral projection one "but i dunno how much is to learn from it.." Plum: "okay, then we can look through this grass one all together," they say, "whenever one of us isn't driving the caravan or something." they say it kind of tentatively. then they look curiously at the astral projection one, wondering why han might want it. "maybe vinny would know more about that?" Han: 🥺🥺🥺🥺 yay yippee… read together…. "oh, maybe he does? i didnt consider that…" i guess wizards know about magic tru…. Plum: "i mean… he knows a lot…?" talking about him like he's not right there

Finn: finn decides this is a great time to try and…. figure out how to proceed with vinny. honestly he might just give up on their friendship if today doesn't go as he envisions……..so he approaches the guy "hem hem" he clears his throat "vinny…. if you recall, we were to spend the day together… and i do explicitly need you for the next store we go to" he looks at him sharply Han: han looks around for- nevermind Chip: help

Han: han turns to look for him, sees finn approaching, turns back and goes "maybe later" :) Plum: ":)" Vinny: he glances over as finn approaches, taken out of his book appreciation reverie he tucks a couple of tomes into his side bag "o-oh? i'm sure we can all head over together then" he smiles and tilts his head Finn: "perhaps" he huffs "i dont need everyone to come…just you and…" he turns to name the other victims "cimmorro and psalm!" he points at them individually "you are to accompany me to our next destination!" Cimmorro: he side eyes finn when he's addressed and plants his eyes back to his book (currently skimming through the textiles one) as he replies "I'm busy" Psalm: Hes about to ask what it is she's flipping through (since he knows by now she can't read), when he hears Finn calling for him, and giving Keva a look he ducks out of the driving area and turns to face Finn Keva: keva just silently wishes him luck Finn: finn raises his eyebrows at him like 'you heard me' Vinny: he blinks "but we have a caravan…." he tries to not sweat at the weird group of men he seems to be gathering Psalm: "I don't mind but what's the destination?" Finn: "a jewelry store!" he smirks and puts his hands on his hips Psalm: That…..actually gets Psalm's interest. He had been expecting something slightly more inane. "Yeah, alright." He goes to put his books down by his other stuff. Finn: finn just goes ^__^ Plum: "i'd be interested in going to a jewellery shop," they give a deadpan look over at finn and vinny's direction Finn: "i dont care about what youre interested in!" Plum: "but you can't stop me from going? just pretend i'm not there," they roll their eyes. Finn: "dont be around me at the store, lest we be associated with one another" he huffs Plum: "you can't stop me from doing that either…?" plum says Psalm: Psalm gets the feeling if he asks Plum to come with, Finn will get mad at him so he keeps his mouth shut. but he gives Plum a look all the same like good for you!

Vinny: he huffs and looks between them "dont be like that finn" Plum: plums touched by this and by the look psalm gives them. they just weren't expecting it Finn: "huh?" finn turns to vinny with a perplexed expression "why?" hes demanding with his tone now Vinny: he looks like he debates even responding to this properly before shaking his head "it's… rude?" Finn: "and they were rude to me before, so its all fair, no?" Keva: keva just thinks to herself that if she thought like that she'd have strung finn up in the square by the balls bynow Vinny: he makes a face at finn but just sighs and shakes his head "if you want to keep being cruel, i suppose" Finn: "in fact, i do!" he replies curtly and then rolls his eyes "lets not keep wasting our time with such trivialities. i have far more important business to attend to, and id hate to uninvite you vinny" Vinny: he bristles a little but looks more disappointed than anything before turning to plum "yes lets all go..!" Finn: finn is actually shocked at this….not understanding what it is with that disappointed expression and vinny just inviting everyone suddenly…….he makes a note to uninvite him after all when they get to the store Plum: "yeah…. but i'll stay away then," they point their nose up and sniff, like they're pretending to cry. though they actually are hurt now so they're hoping the pretense hides that. Psalm: Psalm just pats Vinny on the shoulder when Finn isn't looking. "It's not every day we're on this side of the map y'know, might as well make use of the time while we're here." Vinny: he looks over at plum a little distraught as if thinking they really were that upset (enough to be brought to tears) and just makes a note to walk between them and finn at they head over to the jewellery store…

Keva: after psalm leaves she holds up the relevant pages shes found (in the dragon book) to cimmorro, seeing as he's ignoring finn anyway

Skimming through the pages of the tome as the others bicker, Cimmorro sees a series of draconic beasts that could potentially fit the profile of the drake listed in the job poster.

Cimmorro: cimm reads it aloud to keva at the same time trying to tune out the conversation beside him before he blows up another time this morning Keva: keva makes a face bc she has absolutely no idea how to know which one is the right one…. she ponders this and flips between the relevant entries while they go on their way Cimmorro: "we'll read more into it as we go. the day is still young," and he grumbles an "unfortunately" before taking the reins seeing everyone getting ready to go

The party make their way over to the jewellery store, some of them walking alongside the caravan, others riding it as they make their way further through the market area.

Mars: Mars is just GPS satnav-ing their way to a jeweler (horribly awkward convo with finn)

Keva: finding themselves at the jewelry store, keva half thinks to sell the earring sitting at the bottom of her pockets… after all, orin turned out to be alive. but she decides against it. who knows how will turn out… especially considering the group. in the end keva lets everyone know she'll be staying behind Cimmorro: cimm's also staying behind, he's interested in checking out the store but 1) finn 2) he's probably been here more than enough times + he still has rocks on him Rokka: Rokka will take a quick peek of the store out of curiosity, but since he doesn't wear jewelry he decides to go back to the caravan to read is cool frog book

Finn: when finn steps out of the caravan he dusts himself off before looking at vinny "as much as i said id hate it, i am hereby uninviting you from accompanying me. your assistance is no longer needed" he huffs before pulling at psalm's arm "only you are to help me psalm" Vinny: vinny makes a relieved face when finn isnt looking Psalm: "Right. I imagine you need a secondary opinion on whatever it is you want to try on?" He hazards a guess. Finn: "correct!" he nods and smiles, pulling him away from the rest of the group "when it was still looking like only han, vinny and i were to spend time, i had planned on sharing it with them… as much as i wouldnt want to let han know about my personal life, and now i no longer wish to share anything with vinny either but i digress. you see…" finn smiles sheepishly "i plan on getting engaged back at home! and i wanted to buy a ring from somewhere else so itd be more special" hes blushing a bit now "so i absolutely need a secondary opinion! i figured the more the better but…" he pouts briefly "theres no one elses opinion aside from yours i care to hear anymore" Psalm: Psalm stills for about half a second in complete and utter confusion, shock plain as day on his face. He has no idea how to ask what he's really thinking. "I was…unaware you had a fiancé." Finn: "i-i dont have one yet…but im sure thats to change once i propose!" he stammers a bit and scratches his head under his hat for a moment "i havent confessed yet…" he avoids looking at psalm for this "but i am now 23 and still unwed… it is a tad embarrassing" Psalm: This is making less sense to Psalm as this goes on. He doesn't get how that'd be embarassing, but he just chalks it up to some weird nobility shit that doesn't involve him whatsoever. "I might be missing some larger context, but don't you think it might be a bit rude to who you have in mind for this proposal to be so…how do I put this, non-committal?" Finn: "non-committal?" finn tilts his head, genuinely confused "i am here with you right now buying a ring, arent i?" <- doesnt get what psalm is hinting at Psalm: "Well, yes?" They are factually right now buying a ring Psalm supposes. He has no idea why this is relevant. "But I mean I'm just surprised that whoever it is you have waiting back home is alright with you trying to seduce random men. Although I suppose every relationship is different…"

Han: han looks over curiously, ignoring the finn induced mania happening again "what do you want from jewelers?" plum doesn't have a lot of jewelry on them right? so han gives them a curious look over Plum: "i don't know, i just like to look. maybe i an afford something for once is what i'm thinking " plum gives a contemplative look. "i like red, and the jasidians always look pretty nice, so." Han: "oh, to look pretty like cimm?? it would really fit you nicely!!" han gets sparkles in her eyes, finally remembering that wow, gems ARE pretty.. "especially since your hair is still red, it would match nicely..!!" RED SPARKLY PLUM…….. :) Plum: "well i don't know if i can look pretty like cimm, but thanks," they smile. "you wanna come look too? i believe it's an open invitation." Han: han looks as if she was the one insulted "you are very cute! you absolutely could look as cute as cimmorro!" she thinks on the invitation "if someone else watches cart, maybe… i would be worried about getting something thin chain like cimm's though, in case it tears…" Mars: "Probably not the wisest if we're going out into the wilds." Thinks back to some vague chain getting tangled incident Plum: plum is a bit taken aback. they blink back at han a bit surprised, "oh..thank you? thanks," they say. "i think keva and cimmorro might be sticking back? also true mars, i'd probably go for something sturdier anyways." Han: "exactly….. never seen anyone in mountains wear something like that. only when i came to city." she thinks for a moment "actually, thats not true. the elf tribes had plenty jewelry. but my tribe never did" she then fist pumps a little and joins Plum, saying a quick thanks to cimmorro and keva Cimmorro: he gives a thumbs up without looking up from his book Mars: Mars was gonna stay behind but saw what happened to plum and would head in too if they're heading in like okay cya u two…! Vinny: vinny would stay back if plum wasnt walking in bc he feels like he needs to stand next to them now Plum: wtf now i just have two guards maybe it was my harem all along)

As the two groups enter the store, Cimmorro and Keva examine the book on drakes for themselves, noting down anything of significance that could be their mystery target.

Blue Chromatic Dragon 3-5 metres tall | Lightning and Electricity Magic known to be vain and territorial, blue dragons soar through the skies over deserts, preying on caravans and plundering herds. They’re known to be careful combatants and take a great sense of pride from their kills.

Keva: keva doesn't know much about the geography here so she asks cimm "is there a desert where we're going?" Cimmorro: "none at all. some areas could be dry sure but i wouldn't classify it as a desert… maybe a different one then? unless this one got lost for whatever reason."

Blue Dragon Wyrmling 1 ½ - 3 metres tall They're the young version of the blue chromatic dragon, similar in nature, but less territorial as they cant keep it.

Cimmorro: "tis a child so i doubt it would leave its nest. though poachers do exist so who can say…"

Copper Metallic Dragon 4-6 metres tall | Acidic and Gaseous Magic With a blue orange sheen to their scales, they're reported to be great pranksters, joke tellers and riddlers, they are typically seen as having even-tempered natures and appreciates similarly minded folk. They are also highly territorial however and are known to become hostile when their homes are impeded upon.

Keva: "maaaybe this one? though the bounty didn't mention anything about acid…" Cimmorro: "yeah, I'm sure traces of acid or the aftermath of it would be hard to miss."

Guard Drake 2-3 metres tall | varies depending on the type A guard drake is a reptilian creature created out of dragon scales by means of a bizarre and grisly ritual. When trained properly, a drake is obedient and territorial, which makes it an excellent watch beast that can follow simple commands.

Cimmorro: cimm pauses to look up from the book quizzically "I've known draconic lineages are territorial so I'm curious why one is acting out in this region. it's not been an issue before. something must've really infuriated it" Keva: "wonder if it has anything to do with what we heard from the knights back in shorewater… i thought maybe it could be this one, but the bounty mentioned the attacks are happening exclusively at night, so i doubt it's a guard dog protecting its master's things"

Cobalt Dragon 4-5 metres tall | Magnetic Force Magic Cobalt dragons are seen as cunning and overtly cruel amongst its kind, seeking to dominate any creature it comes across in its hunts. They’re known to hunt from the shadows, preparing traps in its territory to help ensnare its prey as opposed to using its own physical might.

Keva: keva makes a 😬 at this one, but looks at the other entries to double check there's not anything that matches the desc better…

Steel Dragon 5-7 metres tall | Acid and Poison Magic Rarely spotted in their draconic forms, steel dragons are known to be shapeshifters that enjoy living secretly amongst two legged societies and cities. In their dragon forms they move in almost feline-like manners and possess a curious and amiable nature.

Sapphire Gem Dragon 3-5 metres tall | Sonic and Psychic Magic Militant and territorial, clashing and conflict is often seen as part of the very nature of sapphire dragons. They're known to fiercely defend their own lairs, and send out assaults against their rivals to plunder their own hordes for themselves.

Fume Drake 1 metre tall | Heat and Smog Magic Fume drakes are mischievous creatures that arise from the lingering magical energy of a dead dragon. They resemble small, legless dragons formed from clouds of blue smoke. They delight in causing pain and confusion in other creatures.

Keva: keva sighs "looks like it's the cobalt one, huh… and it doesn't say how to best deal with them..?" Cimmorro: he sighs and nods. "and magnetic force sounds like a pain in the ass already… perhaps vinny might come up with a counter" Keva: keva eyes at all the metal jewelry cimm's wearing

As the two continue discussing the topic amongst themselves, the rest of the party enters the store, shopping around and chatting as they eye the wares in front of them.

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> 🎵 Theme of Dominique / Bloodstained Ritual of the Night OST

You enter a small storefront off the main road, filled with pristinely kept wooden and glass cases displaying glittering gems and jewels. Rings and Jewellery are strewn about the store under careful lock and key but glitter beautifully in the light, as a dragonborn clerk eyes them with keen intent.

Oboron Dex the Shrewd Jeweller: "Just right for a gala i think, and such a beautiful colour too. Do inform me if you're browsing for anything in particular, but I'm sure you'd make anything shine with those good looks of yours!"

Mars: "Can't go wrong with a simple stud or loop." Plum: "yeah, i think maybe some new earrings would be nice," they say. "see anything you like, any of you?" they're also going to ask the shopkeeper if they have any earrings that aren't enchanted or water related. Oboron: the man leans forward tapping his chin "hmmm we certainly do, ive recently got in a lovely golden and red pair this morning. they're carved in the shape of sunflowers" he smiles as he gestures to the pair in a case in front of you Mars: "Nah I'm still good with mine." singular dangly thing that it is Plum: "ooh, okay thanks," plum says, looking at them carefully. they're gonna pass though, they've spent enough money today they're starting to think. at mars they say "true, don't fix what's not broken and all that." Mars: hes just like [nod] "How's about you? Anything catching your eye." @ han Han: han's been following plum like she's their tail, "hmm.. not really…… i like stuff but its still hard to thinking about me wearing it…." Plum: "wanna try something on? you could always see how you feel after putting it on." Han: 🤔 true.. no harm no foul…. han picks a very simple chain with a inlaid gem charm hanging off it, in the shape of rose. she struggles putting it on by herself before sighing and going "some help..?" Mars: "Sure yeah might wanna. lean down a bit….???" Han: squats a lil Mars: clasps it on……. "So what dya think." Han: han stares in the mirror shyly, moving this way and that way "….its pretty cute, i guess…" she looks for a bit longer, but her eyes slide off the necklace and somewhere else "ah, maybe i should not have asked cimm to cut it off…" Plum: "your hair? it can always grow back," they say in their usual blunt tone Han: she sighs "ye, cimm said that too, but i am just realizing more and more that i really miss it….." Plum: "well maybe there's a potion out there that causes hair to grow fast? i'm sure i could make something like that if you really want," they don't mean it too seriously but why not Vinny: vinny tilts his head to gaze at han "if you'd like something like that i could brew it in a jiffy" he smiles as if to reassure her Plum: "there you go, leave it to the expert," plum says, jerking a thumb in vinny's direction. <- not being sarcasticHan: 🥺"thank you… i think i would like that…."

Finn: "oh!" finn laughs a bit "to tell you the truth psalm, i have no idea how he feels about me… and if i end up getting rejected, i wouldve wasted my time not trying to enjoy myself on this arduous journey" he clears his throat "dont misunderstand though…i truly am in love!" hes blushing again Psalm: "That's fair," *at least he thinks it is, he has no idea. "And I'm guessing we're to be meeting this not-fiancé of yours when we arrive?" Psalms looking around at jewelry too but he's too distracted to really take note of anything Finn: "certainly!" he smiles and sighs, thinking of his love to be and turns to properly peruse the wares now too "i was thinking of either an opal or obsidian…although quartz would match his hair nicely as well…and mine too" he gestures vaguely "and i fear obsidian might be too gloomy…although the way we came to be is not at all a bright, jovial story, so if you put it that way…" finn just keeps on rambling "what about you psalm? what would you want your engagement ring to be like?" Psalm: Psalm is really trying to put together some modicum of understanding about this whole scenario and failing. "Nothing wrong with gloomy in my opinion," Psalm says. He's a bit curious now though, but all the same he asks with palpable hesitation, "And how exactly did you two meet?" At the question he just shrugs, "I've never thought about it," he lies. Finn: "hmm" finn puts a finger to his chin like a cute anime girl "not under the best circumstances…he was lost… in a general 'lost in the limbo of life' way and not the 'lost in the street' way, yknow-" he looks at psalm in absolute shock at the response though "youve never thought about it?! what?! y-you really do lack romantic ideals, dont you?!" he leans against the displays dramatically, genuinely incapable of understanding how psalm has gone through life like this "dont tell me….youve never been in love psalm? do you even know what youd want your ideal lover to be like? have you never thought about your wedding? what youll wear?"

Psalm: Psalm's like "I see. I must say I'm jealous." Must be nice to have met someone under such adversity and yet perservere enough together to get married he muses to himself. He pulls a face at Finn's being shocked. "I'm not lacking in any romantic ideals." He crosses his arms, "I'd rather not get into any details either, but since you're sharing with me." He waves his hand dismissively, "I have been,and I may have given it..a little thought." (Read:a lot of thought) Finn: finn stares at psalm with the biggest meow meow eyes imaginable "only a little?" he clutches his hands together "o-once we take care of my engagement situation we'll have to take care of your love life in general! oh its too cruel…." he shakes his head "perhaps we will find you a lover yet…in these drake infested backwaters….." he grimaces a bit at his own words there at the end "or perhaps in my lovely antessa!" he beams Psalm: Psalm is relieved Finn isnt pressing him for details. "A love life is the farthest thing from my mind right now Finn." He's wondering why Vorde hadn't mentioned anything about this now honestly, but he supposes nothing changes about their mission with or without the knowledge. "You think it'd be best to get their preferences before picking an engagement ring?" Finn: "why?" finn tsks and tilts his head…but he does respond to the question "i-i never had the chance to ask him about such things…. anyway… his hair is brown so keep that in mind when i talk about obsidian or light colored gems, yeah? i should ask the shop owner to show them to us more up close…" he sticks his head out looking for them Oboron: the man walks over and gives you a sunny smile "need assistance gentlemen?" Psalm: "I just don't have the time right now." Psalm runs that over in his head for a bit before going "Brown hair? Surely you don't mean Orin?" Finn: "sh-shut up!!" finn gestures at him wildly, clearly flustered and red in the face before turning to the shopkeep "y-yes! could you let me take a closer look at your gems? obsidian and quartz specifically…" Oboron: he nods and opens the case up, pulling out the two gems to hold in his hand to display in the light for you "such lovely colours on these i find…" Keva: keva gets a shiver suddenly in the caravan

Psalm: Keva is not going to like this… Psalm thinks, but that's just going to have to be something that's dealt with when they reach their destination. "So let me get this straight, no judgement here, but you want to propose to your hired servant while also maintaining the ability to go off and have fun with whoever in case the proposal fails. Is that right?" Finn: finn just whisper yells at him "CAN THIS WAIT UNTIL WE ARE OUT OF EARSHOT HERE?" quickly Psalm: PSALM IS TRULY PERPLEXED BUT HE WHISPER YELLS "THEYRE NOT LISTENING TO ME." Finn: "PLEASE" HE WINCES Psalm: Psalm rolls his eyes but relents. Vinny: he pats han on the back "nothings too out of reach han!" he gives a wary glance to the yelling from finn and psalms side of the store Mars: Hearing the slight shrieks on the other half of the store mars looks back at psalm and finn and whispers to the rest of the group. "What's gotten him like that…." Han: she smiles at vinny and then grimaces briefly at finns/psalms screamwhispering before deciding to ignore it "any kind of jewellery you look for, vinny?" han talks quietly back to mars "ugh, who knows… finn is just kind of weirdo…. have to treat him like baby. like hes okay but also weird…….." han trying to think how to explain any of this before just going "i dont really understand him" Mars: He just ends up mentally wishing whoever his fiancee is luck before turning back to Han and Vinny. "Suppose there's no point it thinking it right now with how cantankerous he was this morning." he ends up mumbling Vinny: he stares a little longer and also turns away shaking his head "hm? ah i don't wear much myself particularly. maybe when i was younger… though i do like rings, i dont typically keep any on due to my work though" he laughs "i also dont quite understand our friend finn…" he stares into the middle distance Plum: "no, not really. a baby is a good comparison. best we don't worry about it. you gonna get the necklace, han?" Han: han nods after plum "hes, like, very fragile..? in his mind…?" she nods to herself like shes making sense. then she turns to plum "yea, i like it. kinda of nice to wear something delicate" :3 Plum: "yayy, and i love roses too. nice choice," they say, genuinely pleased to be a part of this moment. Mars: He fully turns away from the finn convo because okay ♥ not his problem ♥ yay ♥ anyway. "Its nice, color suits you." He gestures vaguely to his head to mean han's hair but thinks maybe he shouldn't have done that maybe she didnt notice. Han: han goes pink and makes an unimpressed expression "okay, thanks, you guys are embarrassing now, i will go buy it" she makes her way to the cashier Oboron: as you approach the dragonborn he gives you a pleasant smile, wrapping the item in a careful parchment package

Finn: [to the shopkeep]"most certainly!" finn laughs nervously "i-i should perhaps say im looking to purchase my engagement rings here… and i am just not sure which color id love more on my fiance!" he sighs dramatically and eyes them with an intensity…. "do gems… have any meanings associated with them?" Oboron: the man smiles with a toothy grin and places the gem back with a flourish "oh, lovely! we have plenty of band sets here that are often used for marriages and proposals" he gestures to the obsidian "these are said to block and absorb negative energy, stones that provide protection to those who wear them… they draw out stress and tension, good boons for a happy marriage!" he points to the quartz "these are said to stand for spirituality and wisdom, they're good luck charms for those who have difficulty grasping their emotions, and inspire them learn and grow… also a good boon for a happy relationship i should say!" Finn: finn clutches at his head as the shopkeep goes on "both are good choices…it is as you say…" there is a strain in his voice "truthfully, im even less clear about which one id like to choose now…" he looks at psalm now "psaaaaalm…." he whines… clearly wanting to hear his opinion on the meanings Psalm: "I feel I shouldn't be asked to weigh in so strongly on something that hardly concerns me." Psalm says, truly exhausted. He should've declined coming. Despite this, he tries to gives a somewhat decently thought out answer "Obsidian's nice. Given his circumstances it feels more fitting also." Finn: finn assumes a thinking pose… ideally he'd get both… the white one for himself, the obisidian for his love…. but then they wouldnt match! this was truly worth despairing over! after a moment more of looking between psalm and the shopkeeps hand he finally sighs and vows to make a choice "despite how nice it looks i-ill… ill take the quartz… after all… q-quick i need you to put the obsidian away before i change my mind!" he pleads with the store owner Oboron: the jeweller nods his head "an excellent choice sire! i'll pull up a set of quartz rings just this second" the dragonborn walks off with a spring in his step before returning with two bands, embedded with quartz gems, glittering under the light Psalm: Psalm like 'why am I here right now' to Ghester in infernal Ghester: ghester speaks up in your mind "well, i suppose you could have gotten out of it like our good wizard?" Psalm: "Beginning to hate my lack of foresight. I thought it'd be more like when I helped with his ball makeup." Ghester: "you really ought to keep on your toes around the young man, though i will admit to being amused from my perch up here" Psalm: "Wouldn't expect anything else from you." Ghester: "imagine if i didnt like it!" Psalm: "Perish the thought Ghester, or I'd have suffered for nothing." Ghester: he lets out a proper laugh

Finn: finn sighs in relief when the choice is finally made "you were very helpful… thank you" finn beams at the jeweller, clearly excited… finn thinks that if he still had a heartbeat, itd be going crazy now…! as he often thinks. anyway, he hands over the 150gp with a shaky hand just from how excited he is and marvels at the rings, totally absorbed by their beauty…… but he remembers psalm is there too so he says "a-and im grateful for you too of course psalm… this is a very important step in my life and im on my own in regards to it… thank you for helping me with something so precious" he smiles brightly but gently, a rare sight Psalm: Psalm was going to say something to continue questioning this random turn of events but he'd feel bad about it now… "I'm still perplexed but, sure." Finn: finn looks truly happy for once and nods "im only realizing now how much of your time i mustve taken up with this… did you want to shop for yourself too? id be happy to return the favor of giving secondary opinions of course…" Psalm: "No I'm alright, I've spent enough on books as is." Finn: "mm.. ill wait in the caravan then! stay or come with me, if you wish" he smiles and steps out with a spring in his step Psalm: "I want to check some more stores so I'll head off with the others. But don't think we're done discussing this."

The party reconvene at the caravan and head off towards the direction of a general supply store next, stocking up for the long journey ahead of them. Along the way they continue to chatter amongst themselves.

Cimmorro: quick sending spell to willow "landed in krenic. what was the instant mail service you used? also drake problem on the road home. will look into it. tc love u" Willow: you hear the sound of bells chiming in the distance before willows voice responds thoughtfully "i see, a drake… stay safe travelling. it was the blue room's telegram service, there's one in bakaldor. love you as well cimmorro" the voice cuts out afterwards

Jasper: as he and keva debate about dragons, he lets jasper skitter into the caravan while it's still empty as to help her familiarize herself with it. while looking through the drivers window though he spots rokka reading on his lonesome and goes, "hey, rockster. you're out in the wild often right? know anything about dragons?" Rokka: he stops reading his book and gives Jasper his full attention, "JAPSER!! you are correct I was out in the wild for a gooooood time, but i've never ran into any dragons out there! Just your usual woodland critters and stuff…." he pauses to dig his own brain "oh! i know they're big and can probably blow fire out of their mouths like RAAAGGHHHH!!! At least thats what I've heard" he pats jasper's head as he says the last part Cimmorro: cimm smiles a bit and finally after the rough reunion earlier in the morning. just glad for rokka's enthusiasm and seeing jasper play with him. "ah… well, we got a book here that's all about em. wanna read it too?" Rokka: he takes a quick look over at cimm before looking back at jasper "can I? Isn't cimmy still upset about this morning?" feeling a little wary about asking to share books with cimm, he skims through his frog book again "maybe if I offer to share my frog book he won't be upset anymore? argh no one told me maintaining friendships would be this hard" he grumbles more to himself clearly still stressed over this mornings ordeal Cimmorro: cimm just hangs over the window amused that rokka took the conversation to his daughter. he just listens and watches them talk, seeing how it goes. truthfully he is still a bit mad, but not at rokka at this point at least. eventually he goes, "I hope she's not telling you that I've got donuts to share…" a little teasingly Rokka: whipping his head towards cimm's direction, a little surprised at the spark of conversation from him "WUH? no! it's the cool dragon book!" he points "said I can take look…if thats okay with you…" he holds up his own book to him as a peace offering,"and if you want to read about frogs I have this one han gifted me….we can read it together! I can't lend it because it's from han and I have to cherish it ☝😌 " he adds Cimmorro: he chuckles a little. "i do like frogs. come up here while we wait for the others so we can read, then. I don't want to be inside." he turns his back on rokka to take a proper seat back while waiting for him. "take jasper with you if you'd like" Rokka: he begins to smile seeing how cimm didn't turn him away "REALLY!? AWLLRIGHTTT" he quickly picks jasper up and sets her on his shoulder before he moves over to where cimm is "you're gonna loveee this book!" Cimmorro: "yeah? let's start with your favorite one then" he grins then shuffles and gets the box of donuts beside him to offer to rokka while he rambles on. "you want one?" Rokka: "ok!!" he quickly flips through the book and points at a picture "loook at this mountain chicken!!" he excitedly taps the book "It's a weird name for a frog HAHA [insert fact here]" after rambling he looks at the donuts "SWEET THANKS!!" he eagerly grabs one and shoves it all in his mouth "dyou wahnna rehd eht?" he asks with his mouth full Cimmorro: that manages to get cimm to laugh out loud. "is it really called that? huh, it says here it's because their legs look like chicken drumsticks." rokka basically gobbling up his food has him go like "ah! the icing might get all over the pages"

Finally the group arrive outside the store, a few of them electing to stay and watch the caravan whilst the others head inside.

Finn: finn volunteers to stay with the caravan this time Mars: none of that peasant shopping for him

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> 🎵 Tony's Shop / Persona 2 Innocent Sin OST

You find a larger general store taking up the entire ground floor of a building in the marketplace. Crowds of people browse its shelves and crates as they stock up on basic neccesities for the rough Krenic roads. A tall tiefling woman shifts stock near the front as you eye the floor.

Knackon the Bust Labourer: “If you need something off the high shelf call me over. Yesterday we had an acolyte nearly crush herself under a bag of rice…"

Keva: "which of these kits do you all want? we'll have to get a lot for feed all of us" Han: "i would get modest and see if we can hunt? at least game." Psalm: "I think modest should be alright with our current funds.. but in the interest of saving money… hmm" Keva: "do we have enough left over from the money we got from the airship after paying mars? or are we splitting this?" Psalm: "I think it was 2kgp, how much are we paying Mars again?" Keva: keva shrugs bc she couldn't read the paper with everyone's names and prices on it Psalm: "I believe it was something like 50g a week… and he wants half now half after.. Can't recall if he'll be paying for his own rations or not though." Mars: before anyone says anything he's at checkout buying a backpack, bedroll + wterskin and 3 crates of rations.

Han: "the road we will be taking, is there any precaution we should take for terrain?" Mars: He thinks a bit on it. "Dry, craggy, windy. Rocky plains mostly, some mountains." He starts listing off while he's still browsing. "You could forage, though it'd be a bit tougher." Han: "hmm…. is it possible to get up mountain? or too risky?" she sighs on the forage response "i have druidic means to find us food, but if there isnt plants to begin with, its useless…" Mars: "There's a mountain pass if that's what you're wondering… We'd be passing through it even, It'd be hard but not impossible to hunt up there. There's plants too, so such means should still be doable…." Though he's not a druid himself, he's been through the region though, definitely plants, sweet sweet grasses of bakaldor…… Han: "i mean more like, in case one of us fall off." she contemplates this, and says more to herself "maybe thats more of snow problem. nevermind. atleast if anything happens, i am confident about assist with food" Mars: "Falls off… Well ideally none of us would be falling off." HE BLINKS. "But uh… if you need help foraging food I can help out too if you'd like." FALLS OFF…….. Han: "ideally, yeah. gotta be prepared for anything though" grins at him ^_^ looking at him buying the ration boxes, she says "just to be clear, if food becomes problem, i am including you in people to feed, so we can do it as team. regardless of finn or anyone says, okay" Mars: He just looks at her going off like WTF 🥺 … OKAY

Vinny: seeing him stare longingly at the fresh food on display vinny opts to buy mars a slice of pumpkin pie, feeling smypathetic to his small budget

Putting their heads together, psalm and keva maths out how many rations they need to buy to last them until antessa, taking the funds out of their airship money. They decide to load all the ration crates on the roof and tie them down.

Keva: keva starts to load up the van with the crates one by one… she thinks to ask rokka to help but decides to leave him alone since he's reading with cimm Vinny: seeing you go vinny moves to aid you in the process Han: han helps keva moving ration boxes 😗 Plum: i'll also help Psalm: Psalm also helps….? but how helpful he is well…is anybody's guess really Han: he helps with moral support.. by struggling for a minute before someone else comes and picks it up instead, making them feel strong Mars: mars just picks up psalms dropped groceries Finn: finn had kinda dozed off in the seating area but wakes up from all the noise and watches everyone carry the boxes while thinking to himself 'how bothersome' before disappearing into the bedroom…not gonna get involved with that!

After strapping all their newly bought necessities to the roof of the caravan they make off to the next destination to purchase the very same for their two strapping horses.

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> 🎵 Coasting / Transistor OST

You walk into an open air tent of sorts, with all manner of animals and beasts settled in pens or cages along the floor. Hay bales and feed are scattered around as others come and go, entering to observe the animals. A man in an apron walks to and fro, deftly moving heavy items with ease.

Julian the Toweing Handler: “Don't get too close to the little rats, kid had his finger nearly nipped off this morning. Think they're feeling a little ornery… slimes are plenty friendly though!"

Psalm: Psalm has a dog(?) now and doesn't know enough about horses so he'll hang back in the caravan as well this time Han: han trusts the animal devotees club to devote so hard so she stays in the caravan, reading more of the astral book properly Mars: silva doesnt really need to eat but she might have fun flying around an animal store… though he's a bit worried about her getting mistaken fro a loose animal and just parks them both in the caravan Keva: keva looks at the horse armor long and hard considering the implication

Rokka: "YEAHH! frogs are funny" he laughs with him, happy cimm is enjoying the book just as much as he is "OH WHOOPS! wouldn't want to ruin this book! Must cherish!" rokka looks in the stores general direction "d'you wanna go check out this animal store? MAYBE WE CAN SEE SOME ACTUAL FROGS" Cimmorro: "yes i was going to say you can stay and read more while i buy some things for the horses but you should come with. it'd be fun to identify the frogs together" Rokka: "AWESOMEEE" he carefully puts the book away and waits to go in with cimm Cimmoro: they go in the store and go like omgggg ^w^ cuties!! jasper also going like OwO at everything

Plum: seeing that mars has stayed back, plum takes the time to ask him a question. "hey, would you know anything about the dusk swamplands?" Mars: "We'd be passing through it." Han: nvm han listens to plum n mars gossip 😗

Being reminded of the last Mars thinks back to the last strange rumour he heard about the place. Strange beings were appearing in a lake town, claiming to be related to the people who lived there…but no one had ever seen them before….oooohh… wait how did that end again. he thinks they sunk the town.

Mars: astagfirullahalazim ^ real mars response to this "Any particular reason…?" He tries to ask as he recalls a weird story about the area. Plum: "i'm following a rumour i heard about the place," plum sighs, "but i'm not a very seasoned traveller so i'm just wondering if you knew anything about the area or how i might make my way there."

Finn: finn, drawn to the store by the filthy smell of animals, comes in and immediately decides to buy a rat (he is handed one in a small cage) finn goes back to the caravan sleeping area to drink the rat he just bought right there (uhh kinda animal cruelty ig) he drains it completely and doesnt have the mercy to kill it beforehand so it squeaks and squirms a little. with the deed done he now has a rat corpse on his hands and a useless little cage… he puts it back in the cage and then exits the caravan again, as if nothing happened, assuming no one is gonna stop him or even pay attention to this…. hes just gonna dump the cage as it is in an alley

Finn exits the caravan discretely making sure nothing is out of place on his person, assured he's looking just fine he steps out. Immediately he trips on the step and catapults face forward and face plants into the dirt street in front of him, his cage goes skidding across the ground, the rat corpse flopping about inside. His hat falls off in the scuffle, dealing him 20 radiant damage from being lit by sunlight.

Theres a heated meat and mist rising from his face as if he were burning as his face begins cracking like dust.

Keva: keva ties the ribbon on amos before placing him back her hood and hauling the horse armor out to protect the horsies and sees ^ happen, she drops the armour and tries to shade him with her cloak until he has his hat back on Cimmorro: uhhh cimm just kinda is like ??? till he realizes whats going on and grabs for his hat to cover him Han: hans gonna kick into high gear seeing finn fucking disintegrate before her eyes and just cover him with her cloak?! Rokka: hearing the sizzling sound rokka jumps over and tried to use his body as shade Psalm: Psalm is minding his business reading the first balkazar*(?) Book or whatever when they pull Finn half dead into the caravan Mars: "Yes I've heard of something there as well is it-" And then Finn walks past them and falls face first into the dirt and the sizzling sound ahppened and he's just kind of confused like wait i thought they hated this guy. Gets up to look better tho Plum: plum also jumps up to look but everyone is swarming finn so much already they just hover Vinny: vinny walks over from where he was browsing the store and also glances over confused, though slightly worried with this groups track record Keva: we're beating him up Han: han straight up panics and casts pass without trace, asking finn in a shrill panicked voice "are you okAY?!"

Finn: the pain is unbearable hes not been hit by sunlight in forever! finns kinda out of it, scrambling to reach for his hat while squinting his eyes shut completely. luckily cimm is there to help with that and he just clings to whoevers closest, probably cimm "inside, inside" he winces and repeats pathetically, pulling his scarf up to hide his scorching, crumbling visage, some tears rolling down his cheeks from the pain… Cimmorro: cimm will assist without complaint, he's kinda just jarred seeing this happen at all since he's only heard of it Han: han just hovers over finn with her cloak Rokka: rokka follows along to help cimm guide finn indoor + blocking peoples view of him Finn: finns shaking and clutching at cimm "m-my coffin is my coffin…?" he trails off "put me in…" Cimmorro: cimm hurriedly takes him there hopefully with hans help rn bcs good lord "is that all you need or? I don't think my healing can help-" defo sounds a little panicked Mars: He's like assessed the situation and connected the dots and figured he should've connected the dots sooner with that weird suitcase in the sleeping area. "Yes the…. coffin would be what's best for him." He says a little disappointed. Finn: "'s all i need" he slurs the words a little and groans…. definitely cutting the dashing figure of an elderly man on life support rn Mars: cimm blinks from finn to mars like "ah? you know then? i guess I'll take both of your words for it… still… should someone be watching him rest?" Han: han leans right next to finn's ear, hopefully out of cimms earshot entirely "if this is emergency, my offer still stands" Finn: finn barely processes this but nods weakly, his brain filing the information away for later "i just need it to be dark now!.." he nearly sobs, definitely unsubtle unlike han Han: han just nods and leaves his side, re makes sure all the blinds are closed

Psalm: "I'm not leaving the caravan for now if you're worried." at cimmorro, Psalm volunteers gesturing at his book. You leave this guy alone for two minutes… Plum: i can hang back here too," plum raises a hand. "What the fuck even happened?" Cimmorro: "i didn't see the entirety of it but from the looks of it he tripped on himself. and, well, daylight" Plum: they just make a wordless o shape with their mouth, like damn Mars: He looks like he was gonna say something but holds back a little bit. "Unless someone's gunning for him he's… better off ? recovering in there." He looks like he's having a hard time picking out nicer words than what he's used to more than hesitant. Cimmorro: cimm just raises a brow at his odd manner of speech but decides it's a matter for later. "right… plum and psalm can keep watch then while we finish up here." Mars: They both just reach an understanding of 'later' and mars just looks back to the sleeping area (or the door at least if they closed it lol). Rokka: rokka leans towards the coffin and whispers loud enough for finn to hear "let me or anyone know if you need anything!" Finn: "okay…" finn groans out miserably, not sure if hes only crying from the pain right now… "i-if you could just…make sure the lid is properly shut.." he heaves and holds his face, curling like a shrimp freely now that he has more privacy and more importantly, the dark comfort of his coffin Rokka: "g-got it!" he quickly pats the coffin shut, double checking every spot to ensure it is tightly sealed

As soon as Finn re-enters the darkness of his coffin he can feel his skin begin to heal, and the harsh pain of the radiance quickly fades, instead a peaceful transient feeling takes hold as his body stitches itself back together.

Finn: enveloped by the peaceful, transient feeling and his skin beginning to heal puts finn at ease… so much that he can start processing what happened. he cant actually believe everyone came to help him immediately… he thinks he saw keva shielding him too. even her. with no bitterness at the forefront of his mind he examines that carefully and closely… vinny and mars probably know now… what should he make of all that? he feels like he owes everyone something now… how ridiculous. with these thoughts in mind finn lets the feeling take him and he begins to drift off

Keva: she will put the rat + cage back in the alleyway discreetly while the others take care of finn, doing her best to not look at the poor wretched thing before returning to the caravan with everyone else and hovering by the door Vinny: vinny hovers outside next to her "wh..what happened?" he's alarmed by the entire group involving themselves in this Keva: "finn's hat fell off and now his face is melting" she's glad she can't see it anymore, still disturbed by the sight Vinny: he blinks eyes wide as he balks "w-why was his face melting!?" Keva: she snaps her head to look at him, confused, "he's-- wait, you didn't…?" her brain scrambles to catch up "i think it's fine now so, don't worry too much about it" she goes back to equipping the horses to get her mind off what she just saw Vinny: he continues staring at her absolutely perplexed "…? d-didn't what? its normal for his face to melt…?" he folds his arms hugging himself if to give them something to do other than anxiously tap as he watches her walk to the horses Keva: "he just…" she feels bad leaving vinny out of the loop, esp when he's clearly concerned, but she still tries to choose her words carefully as she focuses on strapping things on "he shouldn't be in the sun, and he was" Vinny: he glances between her and the door as she speaks "…some sort of condition..?" he furrows his brows as he realises something "that's the reasoning for the clothes, is it?" he's almost mumbling under his breath now as he continues "a curse..? maybe a hex…" Keva: keva thinks to tell vinny that she doesn't think there's much he can do about this one, but decides against it and keeps working away

Keva: "did anyone bring the feed in?" she calls out while she finishes up the armor Vinny: vinny blinks out of his stupour and fumbles a little "oh-ah ill help out..!" and moves off to grab some of the set aside bales to store Cimmorro: cimm's just gonna nod and try and help with this bcs man. da fuck Rokka: rokka mindlessly answer "i can help" and quietly goes to help cimm likew tf just happened Cimmorro: FROGS.. FORGOTTEN Rokka: FROGS FORGOTTEN……..

Keva: once she's done armoring up the horses she rests her head on one of their bodies, listening to its heartbeat while she tries to shut the nasty images from her mind… after a moment she gives the horse a pat, telling herself quietly 'time to go', and climbs back into the driver's seat

Finishing stocking up, the group make off to their last stop, the blue room arcana guild set up in the city. Inside some of them sit and chatter as they make their way over.

Psalm: Psalm just goes back to reading. Plum: "right well.. about that rumour…" plum says to mars awkwardly Mars: Now that things calmed down a bit he just looks back at Plum. "So everyone just knew that…?" If they're this business as usual about it Plum: plum drags a tired hand down their face. "yeah, pretty much. except vinny, bless him." Mars: "Alright, just keeping it from him then." He pinches his brow.

The party manage to locate their destination easily enough alongside the caravan, though as they approach they note a plume of smoke on the horizon. As they arrive outside the building they see a series of soot covered wizards walking in and out of the store coughing and carrying damaged items out into the street.

People stand around watching or staring as they walk past in the marketplace, one of the wizards grumbles to themselves as they rub their hair, their titular blue hat abandoned somewhere, seems the place isnt doing so great this morning.

Keva:

Cimmorro: from the driver's seat, cimm tries to get the attention of the guy. "ah, err is this a bad time to do business here…?" Wizard: the wizard grunts as he looks over towards cimmorro "ahhh…. well if you wanted to buy an item im gonna have to ask you to wait till we see what he have that's still usable" he rubs his eyes "if this was those guild goons im going to brew a fire bomb so big it burns…" he grumbles under his breath as he thinks to himself Cimmorro: "items would be of interest, yes but i was also to inquire about your telegram service-" he just eyes the guy again. "what even happened?" Wizard: the wizard furrows his brows and shakes his fist "someone rigged our cauldron to blow the next time someone activated the boiler, so this morning it blew up the whole damn shop..!!" he folds his arms and taps his foot impatiently "were clearing it out for a bit so we'll be out of commission ah- but" he glances up at you as if regaining his sense and trying to put on some semblance of customer service "i take care of the telegrams, i can shoot it off if youve got the gold on you, make some friggin' money back on this shithole of a morning…." he grumbles

Listening in from inside and squinting out at the street, mars thinks on what he knows of the guild wars of Bakaldor. The blue room is an international arcana guild and this isnt their home turf. He could assume its locals getting mad at newer properties trying to move in but theyre not that new, truly anyone could be mad at them really.

Cimmorro: his eyes go a little wide "why would they…?" he asks kind of limply, not sure if he wants to get involved in this. "ah, the telegram, I'm here to ask for the service fee, mainly. i don't have anything ready at the moment, I'm afraid… 😅 " Wizard: the wizard sighs as he droops "its 100 gold per message, flat fee no matter how long the message is…" he looks around the marketplace again as he thinks "and if you want some basics, pickle's across the road there. she'll probably have something that catches your eye" he turns away now seemingly decided cimmorro's done with this conversation as he spots another wizard wobbling while holding a box "ahhh! lift with your knees bermy!" he runs off and away from your chatter Cimmorro: "oh, thanks…" he listlessly tries to call out but the man kept moving. he turns to look at where this pickle is before he begins leading the caravan there. he speaks up to keva next to him "that's the guy that does that instantaneous letter service if you want it," then also lets the others know "100gp for a letter sent to anyone in portcus, if you lot fancy it" Han: "your city has proper postal service, right? i would rather use that.." Cimmorro: "yes we should, unless it blew up also…" he laughs a little shallowly. "this one is special though, you don't need an address, just a recipient. perfect for those who move about. tis how i got willow's letter back in shorewater." Han: "its only letters, right? i have gifts to send, so…" pouts "ill wait" Cimmorro: "ahhh. yeah letters only. i can show you where the regular postal is after here." Keva: keva thinks about sending orin some of her letter practice…. Mars: mars considers the letter service but ultimately doesnt go for it but he does end up remembering smthn

The party roll their caravan over to the stall pointed out to them across the street, as they glance at the scrambling wizards nearby.

youtube

> 🎵 Open Shop Theme / Recettear OST

You step up to a small arcane stall set up in the market place, freshly written spell scrolls hang drying in the open air above a halfling wizard. She moves to and fro as she scralws markings into the paper, the odour of nearby alchemical materials tinge the air.

Pickle the Fickle Magician: “I can write ya' one if we don't already have it up, just pick it off'a the list. No guild discounts by tha' way so don't ask!"

A few of the party step out to grab a few things from the stall in front of them, in the meanwhile plum and mars continue their earlier conversation inside the caravan.

Mars: "But yes- rumors, I heard of a town with strange folks appearing out of nowhere, some say the town drowned…? Among other things." Plum: "right. thanks. familiar with the subject then, i guess?" they frown. "uh, not the rumour i heard, but okay. but you've never been around there then?" Mars: "Familiar with it, but I haven't been there in a while, and I didn't frequent it either… So my knowledge might be a bit out of date." 😅 Plum: "oh, okay.." plum says, deflating a bit. "nothing about doing favours for the feykind or anything?"

Mars thinks back and recalls hearing mutiple stories about fae beings in the dusk swamplands. In regards to favours he remembers one story saying if you carried 3 rocks across a certain stretch of land for them, dryads would gift you something in return.

Plum: plum gawks at mars for a moment. "wait actually? that sounds like exactly what i was asking about………i think." plum reaches for their bag and pulls out a tattered notebook, in which they've taken some notes. "you wouldn't happen to know any more, would you?" Mars: “Fey and such isn’t really something I can recall off the top of my head I’ll admit. Just small smatterings of stuff locals in the area know.” Mars muses. “I hear fey pacts and promises are harsh or odd, typically, but fair in their rewards.” Plum: "yeah..that makes sense. probably more magic bullshit i barely understand," they grimace. "but i guess i have no choice." plum hesitates. "i'm just asking…. because i haven't travelled much. so i thought you might know more about traversing that area. i actually have no real clue how to go about it." they don't want to ask outright for assistance so they're having a hard time phrasing it. Mars: He thinks a little bit on where they’re heading and the path they’re taking, while near the dusk swamplands it doesn’t really pass through the main bulk of the swamp… “Its a tricky place… I tend to avoid it and I don’t cross it often… but tell you what, what we don’t know we can always find out more of. We’re heading to Cimm’s town, yeah? A Jasidan sort of place? Bet you they’ve probably got some sort of archive of the matter. Maybe they’ve got more on the subject being closer to the area than Bakaldor.” Plum: "that's…true…" plums says, suddenly realising that they had hardly considered to ask around with all of the things always going on, and their thinking about the party more than themselves. "thanks, that's a good idea. i probably should've asked at the library, now that you're saying it. duh…" they're not sure how to say mars doesn't need to go out of his way to help, but they don't know if that'd be rude so they don't. "and yes, we're heading to cimm's place next. i think vinny's here to help him with someone back at his temple who's been cursed.. or something like that." Mars: O.o…. o.O…. “I remember hearing about a curse…” He says briefly before thinking off about something, he turns back to Plum though. “Probably a bit hard to squeeze in a library revisit now… unless you don’t mind splitting off and meeting up again later. Otherwise, Coralwash might be a better bet.” He doesn’t seem 100% sure about it though, but he’s also not sure if Bakaldor would have anythin on the subject that doesn’t take extra time and digging that they don’t really have. He scratches his head a little thinking if he should ask if there’s anything in particular Plum would like to know about fey stuff….. but keeps his mouth shut instead

Plum: "yeah, though i'll leave the details up to cimm. i'm curious about it actually, so i hope he won't mind me poking my nose around." though after today they're unsure. "also right, exactly, it's fine. i don't think splitting up is a good idea right now, anyhow." they give a wary glance to finn's coffin. "by the way, when you say that fey pacts are harsh or odd, i can only think that something like bringing three rocks across a stretch of land means that the rocks are actually gonna be huge boulders. something i'd need to use my head for, maybe?" they start thinking to themselves about whether they could learn any shrinking spells. "i really don't know that much about fey, though we bumped into some fairies in the woods the other day and i can't say with confidence that i want to fuck around with that." Mars: "The worst thing he can do to your request is say no…" Or he'd scold you within an inch of your life, but you can always survive something like that. But he just nods at Plum's example instead. "But yeah, stuff like that. Stuff you'd have to use your head about, stuff that are never what they seem. From my few encounters, I know they operate a little differently." He crosses his arms but one hand raises to flick his earring a bit in thought. "Things that are completely within reason for them could be unreasonable for us, harmful at worst, and the things we say could be offensive beyond belief to them. But they're not impossible to deal with, you just gotta-" He waves that free hand around in a vague gesture and a grimace. "Just gotta figure out the middle ground." Plum: "true, everyone's just been pissy today. i mean they usually are but i thought after a couple weeks it'd have gotten better by now," they make a face. "and gotcha. wouldn't say i'm great at using my head, but i'll just have to figure itvout when i get there. it just sounds like another culture is all, can't be too hard. and i'm already getting practice being offensive by accident, i think." at this they glance over at finn's coffin again. then they pause. tentatively they say, "by the way, i wasn't implying you should help me look all this up when we get to coralwash, or anything like that." they wave their hands a bit nervously. "just thought asking you would be a good place to start.." Mars: He straightens up at that, taking stock of plum’s words and reaching a better understanding of how this group is. Though he can’t really reserve judgement too quickly, its only been a night. And speaking of, perhaps he was being a bit too forward. “Right, well if you need an extra set of eyes to skim through books, I’m not… unwilling to help.” He says rather vaguely. He happens to like Plum so far but if they don’t want his help then he wouldn’t push it. Its not like that library’ll eat them right? Right. Plum: "i just don't wanna add to your work, is all," they say, which is mostly the truth. they wonder if it's obvious how wet behind the ears they are with adventuring, even having gotten embroiled in all the weird shit that's happened since they left talornia. probably pretty obvious. "actually, i'm not sure i really get what your work is fully, aside from making sure we don't get lost. but you seem pretty experienced, which is cool. where have you been before? also thanks then, i appreciate it." they give mars a slight grin.

Mars: “Its really no trouble at all… If anything I feel like I’ve troubled you all more than the opposite, hitting some books would be nice.” ….Cool..!?????! He tries to hide his disbelief. “I’ve been to more places than I can easily recount, I usually hunt monsters alone-“ among other things sentiment goes woefully unsaid here “-so playing guide and traveling with a group this large is admittedly new.” He realises that he’s being vague about where he’s been, which might not seem like a good look for being their guide. Maybe they don’t really believe him. “I mean uh- If you want to hear about where I’ve been- I can tell you more on the road- when we have time and we didn’t just…” gestures vaguely in the direction of Finn’s coffin because he’s still a little flabbergasted at that ngl. Plum: "huh? not really, no. definitely not compared to how today's been going," plum frowns. "but you deal with monsters too? i'm feeling a little better about us going to take on the dragon then, i think. also sure, as i said i've really never been to too many places until now, and i like a good story." they look over at where mars gestures, with a somewhat unimpressed look at the coffin. "you seem to be familiar with that kinda," plum waves their hands vaguely at the coffin as well, "situation." Mars: “Not… personally, I just know when to look out for signs of it. Its not everyday you hear a guy sizzle after tripping on himself. Dragons, vampires and fey aren’t a part of my daily schedule. Its more… Manticores, barghests, packs of blink dogs, the odd spectator- stuff like that.” He starts listing off before quickly cutting himself off or risk finding himself rambling. “The basic of dealing with a dragon is… hopefully the same, try to talk your way out of a fight and fight if its unavoidable.” He looks a bit conflicted at the prospect actually and seems to be hoping its a drake rather than an actual dragon. Speaking (vaguely) of Vampires. “… Don’t suppose anyone was planning on saying anything about that….. Though actually its likely none of my business.” He seems to pivot that line of thought. He’ll be fine so long as Finn doesn’t start anything. Vampiric related that is. Who knows what Finn the guy underneath all of that will start tho. Plum: "yeah, there's really no explaining that away," plum mutters. they listen with interest, wondering if they've ever heard of any of those creatures. manticores maybe. "hmm, talking doesn't seem to go down very well for us. i hope dragons are more talkative than c-" plum pauses. weirdly enough psalm's face flashes in their mind-- the most tight-lipped member of their party would probably not appreciate letting their newest addition be privy to all the cult stuff. it suddenly seemed a bit unfair to have mars come along with how unlucky their group had been so far. plum shifts uncomfortably. "never mind," they say. "i just hope a dragon's willing to get along with us, then. but i'm not hopeful. and no, we weren't. sorry… it kind of really is only his business, somehow. honestly i forget until he comes stomping out in that black outfit in the mornings." Mars: “Nah yeah I only really realized when I said it out loud… Actually makes what Cimm asked me this morning makes sense.” He wonders now mostly about what Plum was going to say, but perhaps much like Finn’s vampirism its not his place to pry. Maybe they’ll tell him about it on their own… “Its… fine? Really, mostly just thinking of dietary restrictions and how to plan around it.” He kind of thinks about how long it would have stayed a secret in the first place, he doesn’t know much about their diets but he knows they have to eat right?? Eventually? In a sense???

They continue chatting as the others move the caravan on to their next desination in the city, planning to leave her gates soon enough...

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Notes

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 The Party has spent quite a bit of Gold👛 🦇Finn is healing in his Coffin⚰

#recaps

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jacksonb · 5 years ago

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It had been 157 days since I’ve seen you, but who is counting? You’ve been in Charleston for over 6 weeks now, and it was complete happenstance that we were close again geographically. When I found this out, I wanted so bad to ask you to if we could see each other, but I didn't want to seem desperate. So, time went on and one night you texted me asking if I could meet you and your family in Asheville. I, of course said yes and we agreed on a meeting place and time.

The whole way from Boone my mind was racing, but I didn't want to get ahead of myself. I got to Tupelo Honey’s early and anxiously waited against the wall near the entrance. I saw you walking down the sidewalk with your new haircut. Of course the rest of your family was with you and I wanted them to like me so bad, but I knew I couldn’t overdo it. We all hugged and I tried my best to seem composed... We sat down for lunch and your dad and I instantly started talking. Your mom also chimed in and I really enjoyed getting to know them. Your sister is literally me in female form, so we obviously get along. I also met Keva, your niece, who was just undeniably adorable.

We made small talk at lunch and we walked to Wicked Weed where we enjoyed some beer and good company.

After that, we drove to Sierra Nevada, and this is where the real story begins.

We sat on the back at the of the brewery - insanely beautiful and the weather was perfect. At this point, all of us were getting comfortable with each other and it was felt more relaxed. Rick ordered some finger foods and we sat there enjoying the evening. I sat beside you and your mom, which I ended up adoring. You had been holding Keva almost the entire time, and for some reason, I was avoiding looking at you two. So I talked to your dad about wine and beer and the hill country. I talked to JL about pregnancy and how the salon was doing. I talked to Rick about being a dad and life was treating him. I talked to your mom about being adopted and my family. It felt so natural the way that everything flowed.

Keva eventually woke up and was starting to cry. You calmed her down and I could hear you whispering in her ear....... Backing way up, the last time we talked in May you told me that you didn't kids. Anyways, you were whispering to her and I looked over at you.... Which I had intentionally avoided looking at you because I knew what was going to happen if I did. I saw your beautiful hair draped Keva’s little head and your fair skin reflecting some of the fire that was beside us. The wind was gently moving your bangs and I could see your lips moving while you were talking to Keva. You looked at me and gave me the softest smile - the smile where your dimples show and your blue eyes were both gentle and vulnerable. My heart literally melted. It was another one of those moments where I knew that I was destined to be with you. Like fireworks were going off in my head behind you.... It’s so stupid because it sounds so trivial, but I just know. So that took about 15 minutes for my heart to get back to normal. You eventually got up to change Keva and your dad was talking to one of the waitresses about things to do in Asheville. I didn't hear the context, but he pointed at me and said “I hope my daughter marries this young man”. It took me so aback that I just awkwardly smiled and chuckled. JL heard everything and was just staring me down with this giant fucking grin on your face. She was pretty drunk, but I would love to have her as a sister-in-law. We would just get into trouble together and cuss at the world. Your dad asked me if I would ever move back to the East Coast and I said yes. He then told me that he wants you to be closer and that it everything would work out fine.... Which also left me mildly confused.

You had this big sweater on with a denim shirt and a skirt. Your bangs hung gently over your forehead. A totally new look for you, but your eyes are still the same.

I had to say goodbye and hugged everyone. JL was the first to hug me and I shook your dads hand. He said “I’ll see you soon” and that made me really happy.

There are so many details that I’m missing, but this trip seemed very intentional. You’re flying to Montana tomorrow and then you’ll be back in CO. I’m going to talk to you a week from today when we move all your stuff back to your place.

I am so in love with you, and I finally realized that last night and I’m so thankful for that. I would follow you anywhere you went.

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xfilesnews · 7 years ago

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FanWorks Wednesdays - how-i-met-your-mulder

by Keva Andersen

One of the things I love about The X-Files fandom is that even after all these years we continue to welcome new fans into the fold. And these young fans bring fresh enthusiasm and new ideas and share those gifts with us “old timers.” There are episodes of the show that are older than this week’s author but don’t let that fool you. Meet @how-i-met-your-mulder! Also known as skuls on A03, she has a body of work that’s impressive for any author, let alone one who is relatively new to the show.

If you’ve ever wondered how you would do in a situation in your past if you knew the future, here’s your chance to watch Mulder and Scully navigate that. “Half-Light” goes AU just after “Home Again” when a shooting transports Mulder and Scully back to 1993. It’s a great ride through different times and universes that keeps you guessing.

And if like me you’re dying to see if Mulder and Scully are reunited with William in Season 11, “Polaroid” is just the thing you need. The uneasy navigation of two families and how William adjusts is a great read.

The X-Files Rewatch Series is a great companion to your own rewatch, and explores the scenes we didn’t see during the episodes we’re so familiar with. In this world, Mulder and Scully finally get to take in that football game, for instance.

We talked with how-i-met-your-mulder about inspiration, writing, and of course, The X-Files.

How long have you been a Phile?

Coming up on two years in late October! I actually remember the exact date that I started the show because it was also the day of a wedding I was in. I started watching the show on Netflix the morning of, and I found the fandom online a few weeks later. Those first few seasons remain a vivid and amazing experience in my memory.

What was your first episode?

The Pilot.

How long have you been writing fic?

Since January 2016. I'd had a few ideas for fic prior to that, but I'd always been too afraid to write them down. Actually, several of my earliest fics are still unpublished and stored in my docs.

What inspired you to start writing?

I actually had the idea that would turn into “Half-Light” back in December of 2015. That was the idea that made me want to start writing fic, but all I could get down from it was a few sentences, so I chickened out of writing more for the time being. Later on, I had the idea for the first fic I actually wrote down (which ended up being incorporated into “The Unspeakable Fear of Things”): an alternate version of IWTB if Emily had lived. I could hear the voice of Emily so clearly that I wanted to sit down and try to get some of it on paper. I ended up writing feverishly for two days, and having so much fun with it that I was determined to keep writing.

Who is your favorite XF character to write?

I write mostly Mulder and Scully (who are both super fun to write about), but I also love writing from the perspective of various side characters. I don't know if I have a specific favorite... Mulder's fun to write because I like incorporating his sarcasm and such into the narrative. But it usually depends on the story I'm telling, where it feels like one narrator fits more so than another.

Are there any XF characters you dislike or find too difficult to write?

I've been working on a story from CSM's perspective that's been really hard. It's hard to really examine his side of things because a lot of his actions contradict each other, and he's pretty mysterious on top of that. I have a lot of trouble with Teena Mulder and Diana Fowley, because they're both really complex characters with questionable feelings or alliances.

Is there a story you're most proud of or that's a favorite?

Probably “Half-Light,” because apart from being my oldest fic idea, the rewrite is also the second longest thing I've ever written. I've always had so, so much fun writing it, and I always miss working on it, even after rewriting the entire thing.

Where can people find your work, and what's the best way to send feedback?

I post everything on Tumblr, but I'm also on AO3 under the handle "skuls". I appreciate feedback in any form. My inbox on AO3 and Tumblr is always open, and I also check the tags on reblogs. People are so, so sweet in the feedback they send, and I'm incredibly grateful for all of it.

Do you take fic prompts from fans?

Of course! I love writing prompts, especially when I'm blocked on all ideas. I usually take prompts on Tumblr.

Have you written your own original characters outside of fandom?

I do! I've actually been writing original stuff a lot longer than fic, since I was about 7 or 8. It's been a dream of mine to get published for a long time. I actually wrote an entire book last year, a mystery about a small-town group of kids digging into a disappearance from 30 years ago.

Anything you’d like to share about your writing process?

I'll write almost anywhere, usually on my phone. I've written in quiet moments at school before, on the couch while the TV is on, in my room alone with all the lights off... I usually try to get things down as soon as possible when they come to me because I don't want to forget the way they sounded or looked in my head. I remember one time I was called down to watch a storefront one time in the middle of writing “The Progression (And Regression) Of First Names,” and since I didn't want to stop, I grabbed a notebook and started scribbling even though I never write longhand.

Do you have a favorite author? (fanfic or published!)

All the fanfic writers I've read are absolutely amazing, and I'm so so grateful for what they do. Some of my favorite published authors include Gillian Flynn, Margaret Atwood, J.K. Rowling, Rick Riordan, Laurie Halse Anderson, John Green, and Stephen King.

Is there any advice you'd give to aspiring writers?

Read and write as much as you can. Reading helps you to pick up on things like style, vocabulary, description, character development, plot, inspiration and ideas in general. Pay attention to how others write and find techniques you like, but also look for ways to make your writing unique and give things a distinct voice. Write as much as possible to help build on these skills. Someone once told me that you will never reach your peak in writing--you're always improving, growing, building skill. As long as you keep reading and writing, you will always be getting stronger as a writer.

Anything else you'd like to share that I missed?

Just that I'm incredibly grateful to both The X-Files and the fandom. I feel like writing fic has helped to improve my writing incredibly, and the amazing support from the fandom has helped as well. Thanks to everyone for reading and showing your support!

Thanks to how-i-met-your-mulder for talking with us!

Is there an author you think should be on our radar? Message us here or hit us up on twitter!

#FanWorks Wednesdays #XFN #fanfiction #fanfic #The X-Files #XFiles

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musicianswanted · 5 years ago

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Ten Ton Slug – Hunting Ground [Official Video]

youtube

Ten Ton Slug – Hunting Ground [Official Video]

Song recorded, mixed and mastered by Ciaran Culhane Recording, Limerick. Video directed and edited by Padraig Conaty All music written and copyright Ten Ton Slug

Follow the slime online: Facebook: https://ift.tt/25Oc7RE Instagram: https://ift.tt/34aSszp

Physical releases, merch and more at: tentonslug.bandcamp.com/merch Music available digitally on all major streaming outlets

Huge thanks to everyone involved in helping us with this. Ye know who ye are and we won’t forget.

Full video credit: Filmed at the See House in County Cavan, Ireland Directed & Edited by Padraig Conaty

Cinematography by Philip Blake Production Design by Noelle Slacke Starring Tommy Sharkey, Katrina Brady & Mark Connolly Focus Puller – Stephen Hayden Camera Loader – Zoë Nolan Lighting Assistants – Sean Smith Paul Farnan Make Up by Keva Morrissey Griffith Art Dept by Noel Nash Sinead O’Reilly Shane Carroll Costume by Catriona O’Brien & Helen Foy Production Assistants Paula McQuillan Aimee O’Reilly John Farrelly Ray Fitzsimons Cian Conaty Thanks to Betty & Dessie Harrington Will Govan Robert Dancey Fiona Kinsella Cine Electric Catriona O’Reilly Karina Charles

OUGH!

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#IFTTT #WordPress

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jyungar · 6 years ago

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Kaddish For Mum

Nothing forces me to confront The divide within me, Between Kavana and Keva, Between, The soul torn between its desire for epiphany, d’veykut, experience of the oceanic pleroma, and the realization that that ritual, custom, minhag, tradition Halacha…survives the erosion of time and enthusiasm of revolution. Nothing forces me to confront That divide within me, More than the KADDISH. The daily grind, the volume of text to daven to merely arrive at Kaddish The anxiety of getting to shul ahead of davening To grab the lectern Or just make the first kaddish in time (Which bookends the entire service) The services requiring your presence throughout, with no interruption. All this designed to not grieve Mum But to enact a millennium of custom, ritual behavioral norms of Grief’s expression within the halachic legal framework and tradition. All this business has dragged me back to the halachic altar From where I fled long ago for the spiritual pastures of a freewheeling romantic hassidic piety.

Where I have fought the battle against hidebound orthodox thinking And brain dead piety,

Neither the German medieval pietists nor the heady French elite scholars, But the fertile divide between the latter day Lithuanian scholarly tradition and the rhetoric of the Baal Shem Tov’s students as my teachers, That first generation of Masters, working through his spiritual revolution, some 200 hundred years ago.

Now, however, the recitation of the mourner’s Kaddish Forces me back to the benefits of repetition The mantra like quality of its recitation And the polyphony of joining others An orchestra out of tune with itself, Some with the same pitch, others tone deaf, Everyone with a slightly different pronunciation Betraying their roots, often as Baalei T’shuva with No roots, but aping the Rebbe who influenced them most. And it is the repetitive quality that may be working through me To acceptance Of the travesty of death Of the outrageous absence of HER in my life Of the emptiness of the apartment without her perched on the easy chair Listening to Heifetz, Kreisler and Pearlman. The anger is slowly subsiding The oceanic waves of grief still occur The dark depression subtending it all, Yet the very focus on the pecking order each day The negotiations with other mourners Of who shall take the lectern, (The pecking order of who has greater halachic mourning status..) Watching the clock at home warily, Ordering the events of the day around these service times, Arriving before the davening when often the shul is empty, And the attentiveness to the moment the reader ends the previous prayer Triggering the cacophony of “magnified…sanctified, may His great name be blessed….All of this..

The attention away from Mum and on this ritual….stuff….

Is the chemical composition of acceptance and the rabbinic genius and the practice of minhag Yisroel. I liken it to the keva/Halacha/ritual performance of the wedding ceremony Where the reading of the ketuba in archaic Aramaic takes some 8 minutes And all listen or muse while the honor is bestowed upon an elder to recite it word for word.

The Bride and groom accept this, despite the preposterously archaic sums of money Set aside in the “contract” …the ritual reading takes place nonetheless. These rituals adorn the ceremony and hang like fruit To be plucked because of tradition and hallowed in time in the nature of things That get repeated generation after generation. It is less the ratio/mind/cause and more of the tone/ritual communal custom/minhag That causes the transmission of praxis.

“Surely it is foolish to hate facts. The struggle against the past is a futile struggle. Acceptance seems so much more like wisdom. I know all this. And yet there are some facts that one must never, never accept. This is not merely an emotional matter. The reason that one must hate certain facts is that one must prepare for the possibility of their return. If the past were really past, then one might permit oneself an attitude of acceptance, and come away from the study of history with a feeling of serenity. But the past is often only an earlier instantiation of the evil in our hearts. It is not precisely the case that history repeats itself. We repeat history—or we do not repeat it, if we choose to stand in the way of its repetition. For this reason, it is one of the purposes of the study of history that we learn to oppose it.” Mum is actually teaching me through her absence Her loss Her present absence Each time I think when reciting the Kaddish By her absence And the halachic behavior it triggered in my observances For this year As her son And mourner No greater bond Acknowledged in Halacha This need for keva/repetitiveness. Her structured disciplined life comes to mind, it Triggers a memory from childhood days of daily practice of scales and arpeggios on the piano and my mother’s stick ever present should I slack in the daily routine. She was harder on herself. Did this bring out the rebel in me all these years? To refuse authority, be it political or halachic? The maverick with a guttural hatred of tyranny and the heretical refusal to bow to Rabbinic authority? Does this Kaddish now bring me full circle to the daily Genuflections -the five bendings of the knee during Kaddish, Albeit kicking and screaming, as I did as a child, A metaphorical hint to the need to return to the primal site of trauma The mother as agent of violence, discipline, repetitive scales and arpeggios until perfection? Now from the grave sending this message etched in my loyalty to memorialize her daily? For a year in this Kaddish, the prayer for the dead, or maybe this prayer for the living? Maybe the Kaddish is sent for me? From beyond the grave? Religion, and the Kaddish, can be used as a religious strategy that practices both a positive dogmatism, in the sense of giving support and structure to the mourner, and negative dogmatism, in the sense that it structures the process of mourning for the mourner, but not in cooperation with the mourner. By performing a ritual, obligated or voluntarily, the mourner repetitively performs the act of mourning, which is more essential than definition or interpretation. Because the Kaddish is stronger as a rhythm than it is in terms of its content, the rhythm and sounds become like a mantra when it is repeatedly and mechanically recited. Kaddish is teaching me the value of repetitive ritual, the recitation, mantra-like, of Aramaic words..encoded in Halacha and historicity, forcing me back to the discipline of practice and the acceptance of authority outside myself. Thanks Mum. Once more you influenced me. In your absence your teaching reaches me In my Kaddish in the key of C# minor, I feel the discipline you always tried to instill, Your absent presence once more, Sanctified, magnified, may her name be Blessed, Mum.

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madilow · 7 years ago

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COLORS: KEVA MICHELLE

THE BASICS

What do you do?

I am an artists first, painter/drawer, I’m a preschool teacher because of student loans lol

What made you decide to do this?

My heart is set on art because it’s always been an escape for me since childhood, a way for me to express what I haven’t or couldn’t always put into words. Teaching, whether art or anything else, was a gift that just came naturally as I grew older. I like being able to help people.

What is the toughest part about what you do?

The toughest part about being an artist and teacher is staying consistent in both areas without neglecting the other...balance I guess.

What is it that you enjoy the most?

I enjoy being an inspiration & blessing to others, like having people actually cry over paintings I’ve done, and like telling me that they’re inspired to go harder because they see how hard I go, like all of that blesses me and makes the difficult days worth it.

What do you feel is your greatest skill when it comes to creating?

I feel like my greatest skill is my use of color through out my artwork. I just like playing with color combinations, seeing what will work, what doesn’t, and how I can draw viewers in with it.

What gives you inspiration?

I draw inspiration from my life, be-it my faith, my reactions to current events or how I may be feeling on a given day, I draw from within, it keeps me going. I also like seeing other artists do great things and seeing their work, that gets me hyped.

How do you find balance between your creative pursuit & your everyday life?

I’m still trying to find balance between the two. I have found that it’s important for me to create for myself everyday. I remember when I first started working as a teacher, I wasn’t taking time to create for myself and it put me in a bad place creatively. That bad place ultimately played out in my interactions with the kids, coworkers, even family. It wasn’t until I was advised to pick up a brush at a training workshop for work that it dawned on me that I was neglecting a huge part of who I was. Since that day, I’ve made a vow to myself to always create, even if it’s a small sketch, in order to feed what I am and always will be first, an artist.

Do you have a favorite quote?

“To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time” from James Baldwin, simply cause it’s true, but to not stay in a hurt place, I follow up with Romans 13:10, love does no harm to a neighbor, therefore love is the fulfillment of the law, cause we all need more love.

THE SPECIFICS

I noticed a lot of your work has a lot of religious influence, what role does religion play in your personal life?

Religion plays a big role in my life, more so my relationship with God. I’m learning that religion itself will have you thinking that just because you sit in a pew, you’re going to heaven. Like nah, it’s so much more then that and through my art, I plan to share. I’m far from perfect but I thank God for working in me and through me to help spread His love & message, flaws & all.

Do you feel like this will be something you delve deeper into in the future?

I always say I fear the day when my brush stops and my pen starts, that’ll be the day I stop painting and get back to writing sermons and studying more. I do want to go to school for theology but until then, my pieces will do the preaching for me, I’m in no rush so when God says so, I’ll go.

Do you have future plans for your work?

In the future I’d like to see my work travel. I have some clients who’ve moved to different states and taken my art with them, but I want to have my work in multiple states, I want everyone to know my name and art.

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received?

I think I’ve already said it, but just to create everyday, for yourself. I was told that in order to be an artist, one has to create. To stop creating would be death to who you truly are, an artist. So just keep creating, keep feeding the artist within and remain at peace.

Don't forget to follow Keva Michelle on IG. The user name is [@]kevamichelle2511.

https://www.instagram.com/kevamichelle2511

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timelessfm · 1 year ago

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𝚆𝙴𝙻𝙲𝙾𝙼𝙴 ! below the cut, you'll find the list of accepted players. before we move on, i will once again let myself sound like a broken record and extend a huge, huge thank you to every single one of you who's applied. all of your applications have been a joy to read & the choices were so damn difficult to make. i'm sorry to everyone who hasn't got in but i hope you still keep this group in the back of your mind and if there's ever an opportunity to apply again in the future, i hope you consider it ! i genuinely had a blast reading everyone's work and it was truly a pleasure to get to meet all of your characters. i appreciate your hard work and your enthusiasm so much, you guys have no idea how happy i am that you've given this such a lovely welcome and had nothing but kind words to offer. once again, thank you <3 and congrats to everyone accepted ! please follow the checklist and i can't wait to hear from you !

artemus yang as 𝙱𝙰𝙻𝙳𝚆𝙸𝙽 played by keva

your application has been such a ride and it's been some of the most fun and creative writing i've seen in a while. i absolutely adored the way you captured baldwin and london's relationship, the quote-unquote meet cute got me so excited and i was hooked from the very start. congrats !

alice garcía-xú as 𝙱𝙸𝚂𝙷𝙾𝙿 played by mia

i am so obsessed with alice's backstory and the way she was introduced to the bureau, i just can't wait to see where the mystery of her husband's death goes. aka i can't wait for shady bureau business. congrats !

dilan shah as 𝙲𝙷𝙾𝙿𝙸𝙽 played by cass

you captured the vibe i was going for with chopin perfectly ! the bright-eyed enthusiasm, the neverending curiosity, the way chopin is so desperate for approval from their new teammates. dilan is a character with so much potential and i can't wait to see it play out. congrats !

gael esai tiul as 𝙳𝙸𝙲𝙺𝙸𝙽𝚂𝙾𝙽 played by clow

the sheer amount of detail in your app literally brought me to my knees. i loved the historical setting you placed dickinson in and man, was your application a joy to read—so immersive and i couldn't wait to read more. and not gonna lie, the death part? got me emotional. and the jump ! i'm so excited for gael. congrats !

choi in-su as 𝙵𝙰𝚄𝙻𝙺𝙽𝙴𝚁 played by pi

i'm so happy you reached out with this idea to me and i can't wait to see faulkner in action—a character so out of place, who had to learn the world anew but the way he agreed to it like that, almost as if he knew exactly what he was doing. it was another app with an insane amount of care put into the details and the historical context and it was so damn impressive. congrats !

alfred powell as 𝙵𝙸𝚃𝚉𝙶𝙴𝚁𝙰𝙻𝙳 played by aaron

you had me at the combo of math and jazz and ella fitzgerald. i love how self-assured and no-bullshit alfred is and the relationships part of your app was so clever and had me laughing out loud. and the way it finished with fitzgerald wondering and questioning—ahh, i want him to get those answers now. congrats!

jonathan liyuan cheung as 𝚂𝚃𝙴𝙸𝙽 played by mimz

as the local cain enjoyer, your stein truly just hit all the spots for me. the idea of the bureau making a mistake and the ripple that one single event sends across time is phenomenal and i love where you went with it so much. i am so excited to see stein in action. congrats !

miriam rosenbaum as 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚁𝙴𝙰𝚄 played by laine

i am so obsessed with miriam's fall from grace—that one little slip that ruined her life....or did it. i love how you explored her conflicted feelings about the bureau and i adore the idea that she suspects that the senator's death that ended her career was something that the organisation had a hand in. and the graveyard visit got me needing tissues for real. congrats !

raphael pérez de la peña 𝚆𝙷𝙸𝚃𝙼𝙰𝙽 played by seb

you really know how to paint a picture, truly felt like i was talking to raphael myself. and you got me absolutely screaming with the part about his parents' fight. getting to meet your whitman was such a journey and i can't wait to continue it. congrats !

adelina “ada” montalván as 𝙾𝙲 ( agent code name pending ) played by taryn

ada is such a phenomenal character, i just couldn't stop thinking about her. i love the idea of her being displaced in time like this and then the bureau orchestrating her life to look the way they want it to but not without its price. i am so so excited to see where you'll take her. congrats !

#tfm:accepted #freaking out v much rn but we did it hee hee #off to bed now so the rest of the discord links will b sent out in the morning!!

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damajority · 7 years ago

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DaMajority Fresh Article https://www.damajority.com/biscette-pascal-top-morne-stars-5k-saint-lucia/

Biscette, Pascal Top Morne Stars 5K - Saint Lucia

Biscette, Pascal Top Morne Stars 5K

Scores of athletes and fitness enthusiasts from Dominica, Grenada, and host nation Saint Lucia took part in the inaugural Morne Stars Gros Islet five-kilometre road race and fun walk on Wednesday, December 13th 2017. A celebration of Saint Lucia’s National Day, organised by four-time Club Relay champions, Morne Stars Athletics Club, the event took participants through Corinth, Corinth Estate and Marisule.

In the men’s division, the run was dominated by Road Busters. National athletes Michael ‘Mega Boost’ Biscette and Michael James set a strong pace on the flat, fast course, until Biscette began pulling away on the slight uphill of the Marisule Highway, eventually winning in 19:26.34, just 10 seconds ahead of James, 49 seconds ahead of Vinus Stanislaus, the top under-20 competitor, and Dominica’s Jonathan Celestin.

Among the women, however, it was Grenada’s Kenisha Pascal who took home the top prizes in the early morning run. Her run of 18:35.72 earned her sixth place overall in the field of 60. Second across the line for the ladies was Chantal Glasgow of Road Busters, whilst 15-year-old Keva Pierre, hailing from the Nature Isle, the Commonwealth of Dominica, took third place and first in the junior division.

The top male and female runners were rewarded with gold medals, a trophy, and a cash prize of $500.00 each. There were trophies as well for the oldest male and female entrants, Charles Sayers of Corinth, and Leona Roberts of Dominica. Also awarded trophies were the youngest registrants, Kadian Pierre (Morne Stars) and Quest Gaston (Road Busters). Everyone taking part was given a bag and water bottle.

Overseas runners, elite local athletes and walkers alike expressed their delight at this event, which the club hopes to make an annual affair. For its part, the executive of Morne Stars thanked their sponsors, all of those who came out to participate, and the officials who gave generously of their time, not to mention the Dominica Athletics Association and Road Busters, especially their president, John Gaston.

Among the companies and agencies proudly supporting the Morne Stars 5K were LUCELEC, Multigraphic Services, Gemini Impressions, the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Sandals Resorts International, Princess Inn and Guest House, Flow, Ti Spa at Calabash Cove, the Saint Lucia Football Association Inc., and Blue Waters.

TOP RESULTS:

Men’s Open / Junior

Michael Biscette (Road Busters) 16:29.34

Michael James (Road Busters) 16:39.08

Vinus Stanislaus (Road Busters) 17:17.77 *

Jonathan Celestin (Dominica) 17:17.84

Jervonne Agard (Road Busters) 17:17.91 *

Dave Jn Pierre (Road Busters) 18:57.65

Donald Pierre (Morne Stars) 24:35.09 *

Women’s Open / Junior

Kenisha Pascal (Grenada) 18:35.72

Chantal Glasgow (Road Busters) 22:43.00

Keva Pierre (Dominica) 23:27.24 *

Laura-Lynn Liméry (Road Busters) 24.43.25 *

Candra Massey (Road Busters) 28:15.71 *

50 & Over Men

Charles Sayers (Road Busters) 23:00.22

Anthony Neptune (Road Busters) 22:01.41

12 & Under Boys

Quest Gaston (Road Busters) 28:41.56

12 & Under Girls

Sierratina Hilaire (Morne Stars)

Luwanda Adlien (Morne Stars)

* Junior athletes (Under-20)

Click here for photos:

https://www.facebook.com/pg/MorneStarsAthletics/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1657964590916042

#flow #Gemini Impressions #lucelec #Ministry of Youth Development and Sports #Morne Stars 5K #Multigraphic Services #Princess Inn and Guest House #Royal Saint Lucia Police Force #Sandals Resorts International #Ti Spa at Calabash Cove

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starsandamorphinetoast · 7 years ago

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Dandelion, mint, and keva. 💚

Dandelion- when you make wishes, who are they for?I'm going to interpret this to mean who do I personally wish for, and the answer is, I don't know. I'm in love because I'm perpetually in love, but I don't have a specific person to be in love with, so I guess I'm just channeling it into the world so...everyone. Mint- what song gives you energy?I Wanna Get Better by the Bleachers. Kava- Post your favorite color scheme. Will do! I'll post it in a minute. Thanks!!❤️

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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

youtube

> 🎵 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...

-----

Notes

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

#recaps #smile

0 notes

dndfuckhouse · 2 years ago

Text

Session 48 - Farewell Misty Isle

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> 🎵 Krell Steel Freight Blues / Void Bastards OST

The party stand still within the shack watch as the corpse upon the floor begins to open its eyes, drenched in blood and dried dust. The man blinks before he begins to cough and hack, rubbing his throat as he slowly begins to sit up. In the mirror they begin to see the three other witches begin to cheer excitedly.

??: the elven man shouts jokingly “he’s alive! he breathes! the earth’s twice damned!” ??: the dwarven woman follows with a shout while grinning “mornin’ kyzer you dumb son of a bitch!” while the tiefling shakes his head at their candor.

The newly arisen Kyzer looks around blearily at the witches in the mirror and then the rest of the group pressed against the wall next to it with a raised brow as he recognizes them, confused, but seemingly lax despite the circumstances.

Kyzer: “ack, stop shoutin’ at me right after i’ve- now what in the...” he takes stock of the room and building before looking at his own body pondering “now the hell’s all this, gods my back hurts…” he stretches slightly while rubbing an arm against his back Keva: no one can see her but keva’s like [tails.jpeg] Han: han from the door like 👀 Rokka: rokka frozen in the corner freaking out a bit Cimmorro: cimm is staying a good distance away, outside, from you all but is just judging everyone partaking in this

Kyzer makes to stand up slowly, taking in the tableau as the tiefling speaks up in the mirror.

??: "you'll be glad to know revival works even if were in other bodies now, thanks for the test run" he seems nonchalant but pleased at the mans reappearance Psalm: he asks "What's the last thing you remember?" Kyzer: he shakes his head rubbing away some of the blood on his face as he turns to psalm "hmmm..? thought i was havin' a nightmare honestly" he looks around the room as the witches in the mirror look around curiously at the appearance of another voice ??: the elven man speaks up "some invisible weirdos helped out, be sure to thank 'em" Kyzer: he laughs hoarsely in response "i've met 'em once already" Han: han goes "does this mean i can get off the floor now or..." Kyzer: kyzer looks over towards you near the door and smirks in response "if ya feel like it" Han: "i was asking the others but thanks for confidence" 👍 Psalm: psalm drops the invisibility since it's no longer needed Keva: keva jumps a little seeing her grungs appear suddenly by her side again

As Psalm dispels his invisibility, the witches react with surprise at the appearance of a messy Keva.

??: the dwarven woman shouts "ahh there's one of our collaborators!" Kyzer: he blinks then looks over at the grungs wearing the hats and squints a little as he puts his hands on his hips "...ack, a dead man's shack ransacked" he ambles over to his desk as if to check it over "gonna have to fix the floor too..." Han: han crawls into the building but sits on the floor cross-legged "if it makes you feel better, outside is worse?" Kyzer: he gives you an unreadable face before shaking his head and looking back at the desk muttering something under his breath Han: grimaces in apology

Keva: keva gives those in a mirror a glance, before focusing on kyzer "...what happened to you? we weren't gone that long and we came back to someone else in your body" Kyzer: he looks over at you and leans back thinking for a moment "so it's actually still around here?" Han: han peaks thru the door to the outside "still tied up n knocked out, if you want it" Kyzer: he bobs from side to side as he thinks "he took it...?" after a moment more of thought he blinks "ah, i'm starting to get it" he smirks at his right arm "explain's this" ??: the tiefling in the mirror pipes up "apparently they found you in a basement, bled out like a cow" Kyzer: he sighs and folds his arms again "yeah, startin' to remember that..." Keva: "do you know who it was?" Kyzer: he thinks then walks over to the mirror, speaking up "thank's for the assist guys, i'll ring ya back in a few once i get my bearings" as he smirks again the three begin to protest ??: "what, aw cmon-!" ??: "after we just REVIVED YOU-" ??: "as long as you actually ring-" Kyzer: he then knocks the mirror thrice, cutting off the image, returning it to a normal mirror, he looks at this reflection and speaks "never seen this guy in my life"

Keva: "do you remember what happened when you were attacked?" Kyzer: he tilts his head this way and that then makes to walk outside "was round' here..." and walks out the door, though he's soon distracted by the carnage of his burnt fields, he pauses to put a hand to his forehead and almost laughs Han: LOOKS AWAY GUILTILY Keva: "if you're really going to live forever then at least you have all the time in the world to fix it" keva tries LMAO Kyzer: he leans backwards and rubs his face "how the hell'd you all even get to burning half my grove down anyway..." Keva: "self-defense" Kyzer: he almost pouts before puffing a gust of air out "i'm putting a thorn wall at that entrance..."

Han: han puts up her hand n starts counting "one: do you really need to know who this guy is? it doesnt seem like he had deep roots here. two: what do we do with the mystery-guy-in-kyzers-body? actually-" she pushes the door open and yells out "group meeting!!" n waits for cimm and finn to come over Finn: finn shoots @cimmorbo a look like 'are we attending?' 🤨 Cimmorro: he gives you a look like he doesnt wanna but also has no choice so he begrudgingly walks close enough but still by the door frame mostly Finn: he situates himself right beside cimm as he feels equally unenthusiastic about this Han: [she repeats herself]

Kyzer: he looks around at finn and cimm and gives them a wave as they approach "mornin', fellas, skulking about my yard?" he steps out onto the front clearing to survey the environment with a grimace Cimmorro: "........" cimm is really trying not to say anything rude so he just clamps his mouth shut and looks away Finn: finn openly grimaces at the man but doesn't dignify him with a response, looking away as well Kyzer: both your reactions seem to amuse him and he smirks again as if rejuvenated "never seen a guy doused in 'is own blood before?" Cimmorro: cimm mutters "vinny did it better" behind gritted teeth then turns his attention back to han Plum: plum is unamused with cimm and finn rn ngl Finn: finn @ cimm rn

Kyzer: he turns back at the rest of the group and points near the back of the shack "heard something strange there, ambled over...then" he mimes getting punched in the back of the neck "whack, lights out for me" Han: "taken out pretty easily huh" twirls her own hair Kyzer: "that's the strange thing... i can sense when people come in 'ere, but not whatever that was" he smirks "bit unnerving i'll admit" Han: "oh" han makes eye contact but looks away in thought "thats weird" Kyzer: he laughs "ain't it?" he looks away at the plants again "next thing im sitting in some hole, choking and clawing at my neck with two hands" he shrugs "guess it wasn't a dream after all" Psalm: "Bit unsettling to think you were caught off guard then." Plum: "that is weird, how do you usually sense when someone comes by?" Kyzer: he looks at you and smiles "this area's ah...my domain i suppose. the plants here are my eye's and ears..." he wiggles his fingers jokingly "an extension of ma' senses" Plum: that's kinda what they figured.. "so someone waltzing in here with a simple invisibility spell wouldn't get very far past you?" Kyzer: "somethin' like that i'd see through easily, plenty of tricksy types in these woods who're fond of 'em"

Cimmorro: "anyway, i was thinking that we could at least get his name. but at this point i don't really care. i was mainly thinking of what the boss would need" Psalm: "At the very least we should pen a report for Vorde. Since our arrival is some ways off..." 🤔 Cimmorro: "we got into contact with him and he said we could spare him the details until we meet" Han: "we dont have name, and i doubt we get it from anyone around here. unless we want to keep them prisoner for vorde" Psalm: "Then I guess our work here is done...?" daring to be hopeful Rokka: "can....can we go back now?" rokka mumbles Cimmorro: "yes well, he said he would bring some of his network over to have a look-see. but then poses the question of where we would leave this guy...." cimm wonders if kyzer would be Hospitable enough to keep his murderer in his shack until then but he really doesn't care to ask Psalm: "I meant on paper, you're right in that we can't just leave him here." Cimmorro: "might i also remind everyone if we intend to keep him alive we should find a way to restrain his way of burrowing into the ground" Psalm: “Did Vorde indicate when someone from his network would arrive? I doubt it but I have to ask." Cimmorro: "he did not. only told us to leave before tomorrow" Psalm: Psalm head in hands jpg Han: han says mostly to herself "they didnt burrow they just.. stopped being physical" Cimmorro: "either way it's a problem, is all i'm trying to say" Keva: keva's looking for a way to clean herself up a little around the shack

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> 🎵 Peat Fields / Roadwarden OST

While they’re discussing, Han walks over and picks up Kyzer’s original unconcious body to bring over to the group.

Kyzer: as you bring him over kyzer comes to look "aye, my handsome face... dragged 'im through a mincer..." Psalm: out of half genuine concern/half curiosity Psalm asks "you're not going to be able to return to your own body anymore right?" Kyzer: he smirks at you "i don't know a spell that swaps me back permanently, whatever this jackass did's outta my purview.." he folds his arms "maybe i'll ask him" and he laughs wearily Psalm: "Not a bad idea." He shrugs Kyzer: he thinks to himself "dunno if he'll be chatty.." he then looks around "that reminds me, where's.." he scans around him until his eyes land on vinny, he smirks before walking over "i'll 'ave that back if ya dont mind" Vinny: vinny almost startles before he gives a relieved sigh and hands the wooden staff back to kyzer "er, of course...! it's ah.. very well made" Kyzer: kyzer smiles in reply "grew it myself" Vinny: vinny clasps his now empty hands and nods "i could tell..."

Plum: [to vinny] i want to ask him about more effective ways of concealing your presence like spells or something since someone got past kyzer's garden Vinny: as you approach vinny he blinks as if taken out of a minute of contemplation before responding "ah... hm well there are spells that let you cross the planes and travel that way... more complicated than invisibility, they could have also teleported in somehow for an instant sneak attack i suppose" Keva: "didn't we find teleportation things in the shack?" Vinny: "im not sure what those sigils were for to be honest" vinny scratches his chin Keva: “maybe kyzer knows?” Vinny: he thinks "black magic and blood magic are different schools of magic... but i suppose there's no harm in asking?" Keva: "i don't know anything about magic so, it's all the same to me" Vinny: he smiles apologetically "right right er... well its like speaking different languages really" Plum: "hmmm that's true.. annoying if that's the case though" plum. they turn to kyzer and ask "sorry for all the questioning, but yeah i guess if someone teleported their way over here you wouldn't have known, then?" Kyzer: kyzer looks over at you and thinks "i'd 'ave sensed them appear but... if they were strong enough they could have taken me out in one whallop i suppose.."

Plum: "right.. i guess we can head out now. sorry for uh..." plum's brow furrows in slight embarrassment "burning your place up." Kyzer: he makes a face like he's holding back a laugh "well im alive again so i wont curse ya' this time, that alright with you?" Plum: plum closes their eyes and frowns, even more embarrassed. "yeah, that's fine." Kyzer: he ruffles your hair with one hand "lucky me" Plum: they don't move away or anything but they just stand there like "?????????" Psalm: "Are you alright with us leaving him here?" * gesturing at body* "Maybe we should've killed him..." psalm wonders Kyzer: "you got plans? i gotta wonder why the hells you're all in this forest in the first place" he gives you a smirk Psalm: "You don't think us showing up at random questioning you about your body snatcher speaks for itself?" Kyzer: he laughs "remember when you told me you were looking for a cure for that one?" he points a thumb at finn Han: han lols Psalm: Psalm just laughs dryly like "Did I say that? I can't remember..." Kyzer: he laughs with you "real comedians here, you oughta' form a troupe" he looks over at the corpse "sure, leave 'im. we'll have a good chat. s'long as no one else surprises me. maybe ill hide away for a bit..."

Han: “this one" punts body "had secret hidey hole, if it might be use to you" han will point out the direction "also they are definitely one who was stealing people around town" Kyzer: he puts his arms on his hips and squints at the ground "i'd like a look at that.." at the mention of the kidnapping he raises a brow and laughs "well look at that, solved what i asked of ya' in the end didnt ya" Han: 😁

Han: "then, thats all questions answered?" Psalm: “Not even remotely, but if we were instructed to leave we might as well leave." Han: "all questions that we can get answered, answered" dead eyed stare at nothing Cimmorro: cimm doesn't say anything but makes a small gesture or nod acknowledging he's good to go Rokka: rokka already inching towards the door while nodding Keva: "is there a way i can get cleaned up" keva gestures at the blood all over her Kyzer: he looks over at you "was jus' gonna jump in a pond myself" he smirks "there's a few round 'ere somewhere" Keva: "fantastic" she says flatly Kyzer: he snickers "forest livin'" Han: han punts vinny "can you" does magic hand gestures "her" points to keva Vinny: he stumbles a little as you punt him over before realising whats being asked "o-oh, sure sure!" he snaps his wrist and speaks an incantation

The dirt, blood and mud is lifted off of Keva, she stands fresh and clean again alongside her grungs.

Han: han nods in appreciation Keva: keva blinks and says "oh, thanks" after giving herself a quick onceover she adds "rather handy, that" Vinny: he smiles "and one of the first things we learn too"

Back near where Han has now set down the body, Kyzer begins propping him up near the shack, getting used to having two arms again.

Kyzer: "i'll be makin' a wall after ya' leave. don't leave anything behind now" Cimmorro: cimm just instinctively checking if jasper's on him when he hears that Psalm: “Take care of yourself." 🫡 Han: whispers to him "sorry about flowers" >_< “pleasure meeting you!!" as she steps out Plum: "byee" plum says, resisting the urge to say sorry again Finn: finn steps out without another word or another look Keva: keva just gives a wave as she leaves with her grungs who are still wearing his hats Rokka: "yeah sorry about uh...everything!" as he scuttles off Han: han pats rokka 😔 Kyzer: he gives you all a lazy wave not looking back "everything grows back eventually, easy walkin' now..."

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> 🎵 The Forgotten Village / Folklore OST

The party all head out of Kyzer’s grove, stepping back onto the shaded path leading to its entrance through the trees. As they do, behind them a bush of thorns begins sprouting from the ground, building up until it forms a wall in and around the bushes and shrubbery behind them.

Han: "oh he got on that fast huh" Plum: "can't really blame him" Rokka: "glad that's over, i'm sooo over being stuck in the forest" Han: "this place is kinda fucked up honestly.” Psalm: "What happened to being excited to find witches" 😃 Han: han nods seriously in contemplation "well i got my wish, the witches were cool. and little fucked up too. i respect that." Cimmorro: "honestly, the witch part? mostly fine. more cult bullshit? getting tired of it" Han: 👆 Plum: ^ Psalm: “Agreed.” Rokka: “VERY” Han: “also as much as it sucks, i do think we should head back .. through... the forest... now" Rokka: rokka groans Cimmorro: "we could probably just head back and recuperate at the ship and wait for the town to open up if we'd like to look around and restock before departing... not like there's much else we can do out here and frankly i'd rather not have another thing jump at me when i'm exhausted"

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> 🎵 The Library / Kentucky Route Zero OST

The parry trek out of the hidden pathway, back in the fields and plains of Greenpea proper, then begin to head back to the path they’d taken to get to the small town.

They have an easy enough time with Han and Rokka at the helm, and soon enough are on their way back through the forest, on the path bracketed by glowing mushrooms once more. The darkness and the mistiness of the surroundings settles over them as they remember how pitch dark it is in the forest still.

Though as they reach the path again, Keva’s grungs both disappear in a poof of sparkly smoke, the faint sound of pixie laughter rings in their ears as the hats they were wearing hit the ground.

Keva: keva picks up the hats and shakes out the pixie glitter from them, muttering "so long" quietly to no one

They continue on their way, thankful for the ever present pathway shrooms. The sounds of nature and water bubble in the dark around them, peacefully yet eerily. They find themselves enjoying the darkness after the commotion before they all of a sudden notice something.

Blinking around they see small glowing orbs of light, barely noticeable, floating amongst them all as you walk, a few even sit idly on people's heads and shoulders.

Keva: she groans "what now"

Han moves to touch them, finding her hand somewhat phases through them, they dont appear to be any kind of bug to her. Cimmorro also examines them, noting that they remind him of Will o’ Wisps, though they dont hurt at all like contact with one of them would. When he focuses on where one is touching him he feels a comforting feeling, soft and rejuvenating, as opposed to painful. They continue to float amongst the group as they walk.

Rokka: rokka places his hands on the little creatures burrowed in his fur as if to protect them Han: thats freaky, han starts shooing them away with her hand Psalm: >ignoring it Cimmorro: "they seem to be harmless...?" he says outloud, raising a brow still curious Rokka: "oh, ok!" he says but still cautious Psalm: "I trust nothing here anymore." Psalm says but in an exhausted way not a mean way Plum: "fine with me" plum says "lets just get outta here already" and they yawn. theyre trying to remember if theres a bath on the ship Cimmorro: cimm snorts at that but doesn't disagree, while walking cimm idly tries to talk to the one on his shoulder, greeting it a curious "helloooo?"

Tgere's no response back as Cimmorro tries to walk and chat them up, they dont seem to be coming from anywhere, rather the group seems to have walked into where they float around instead.

Vinny: he thinks aloud "a mutation of some kind perhaps..." Ghester: he follows up in your heads "even now the forest shows us something new" Psalm: @ ghester “great" Plum: "of will o' wisps???" Vinny: he smiles at your reaction "i can believe anything at this point really... even mutated ghosts" Plum: plum shudders at the thought of them being ghosts.. "right..cool..." Vinny: he falters a little awkwardly "er...friendly ghosts?" Plum: plum laughs a little at this Cimmorro: "kinda wanna keep one in a jar 🤭" he jokes "but that might anger them..." Vinny: he makes a face at you that’s the equivalent of 'i hope you're kidding'

Out of curiosity, not trying to trap it, Cimmorro takes out an empty vial and angles it to see if one of the wisp stays inside. As he positions the vial he watches it get stuck for a few moments before it phases back out, floating back into the open air.

Cimmorro: "awww" he pouts but not completely disappointed since it was still an interesting experiment in his mind Vinny: vinny sighs to himself in relief Keva: "what would all these ghosts be doing out in this forest?" Plum: "i mean this place is pretty crazy, i can't imagine getting lost in here goes well" Rokka: "WAIT GHOSTS!?" Keva: "i wouldn't expect lost souls to be friendly" Plum: "why not?" Vinny: he thinks "maybe the environment changes them..." Keva: keva kinda looks at plum surprised "why? you'd be okay dying lost in a forest, with people you care about not knowing what happened to you?" Plum: plum thinks about it for a moment "eh, i guess i'd prefer that to other ways to die" Rokka: rokka moves closer to han or whoever is near him cringechamp rn Keva: keva mutters a little "i'd rather just not be so unlucky, but that's not something anyone can control" eying the orbs of light she says "i feel bad for them, but... i suppose if they've made peace with it"

With the talk of ghosts Cimmorro looks around to see if he spots any skeletons or corpses around the area, but sees nothing of the sort.

The party continues on, not paying much mind to the orbs of light. Eventually after a short amount of time the wisps disappear as slowly as they came. The group find themselves feeling rejuvenated from the experience, and a bit more energized and level headed. They experience the equivalence of a short rest.

Cimmorro: omfg i thought that said we gained a level for a sec Han: i cant even use a short rest for anything Psalm: Stop that I get my spell slots back YOU EOULDNT UNDERSTAND Han: LKADSKG;LKRWAFLK;ASDJGAWED Cimmorro: okay never mind the warlock eneds it Han: I WOULDNT IM SORRYYYYY Cimmorro: its like psalm just needed that really quick drive thru at mcdonalds lets he wont survive the rest of the road trip

The group continue down the misty path in the darkness of the forest, ears keen on their surroundings. As they continue walking down, suddenly they see a fish drop down out of the sky, slapping directly onto the ground in front of them. It continues wriggling about on the ground, its looks about the size of a tuna, glowing a bright pink.

Cimmorro: "omg. jasper. dinner!" Finn: finn just groans in frustration Rokka: "WHAT THE" Cimmorro: pokes it with a stick after i look up Rokka: "w-wATER IT NEEDS WATER" rokka points Han: han leans over cimm to poke it more

The group look up at the tree canopies above and don't see anything in the pitch blackness, though they have to assume it fell from there, it wiggles as Cimmorro pokes it more. He makes Jasper sniff it, after a few moments of sniffing she looks like shes about to take a bite out of it.

Han: tuna sized...

As he messes around Han looks around for a water source, spying a small pond near a tree parrallel to the path.

Cimmorro: "you sure? it might give you a stomach ache.. i don't know what it is" Han: @ rokka "do you want to try throwing it over there?" points to pond Rokka: "on it!" he quickly picks the fish up and walks a bit towards the pond to toss the fish in it "swim on little bud" Han: hans eyes on rokka at all times like not even blinking Cimmorro: cimm is watching the fish

As Rokka drops the fish into the pond it lands with a divers splash, disappearing into the water. After a few seconds the pond lights up a bright pink and flashes as you hear a showman's voice speak from it.

??: "thank you! thank you! thank you very much!"

After a few moments the group hear a strange wobbling sound and suddenly see something spat right back out of the water. A small string wrapped paper package hits the ground in front of them as the light in the pond disappears.

Cimmorro: I KNEW IT WAS GONNA SPEAK Plum: fucikng aesops fable chip has us doing rn Cimmorro: cimm steps closer to the package and just ??????? then turns to everyone going ???????? Han: hans like bow drawn the second smth shot out of the pond and now shes just like tails jpg bow in hand Rokka: "YOU'RE WELCOME!!!!" he waves at the pond Plum: plum is starting to get annoyed, putting their hand on their face and dragging it down. "can we please get the fuck outta here already" Psalm: Psalm already walking away HES TIRED OF THE WHIMSY Cimmorro: TIGHT WHIMSY KINDA ANNOYING RELEASE ME Finn: finn joins you

Cimmorro picks up the package as Rokka watches on behind him, as the group walk on they follow behind examining the item. Cimmorro gets a sense the contents are enchanted in some way, as he unties the string, inside he sees a small grouping of pressed and dried four leaf clovers.

Rokka: "ooohhh" Cimmorro: "seems like it's laced with magic" Rokka: "good or bad magic? I don't want any more bad ones" Cimmorro: "I don't know? lemme check. nevermind we have the perfect person right here" puppy eyes at plum Rokka: rokka puppy eyes at plum too Plum: plum glares at the package for a second, softens up and then takes it Cimmorro: cimm goes yayyy Keva: keva remembers the inkwell she received earlier "ah, can you do this after, if you're not too tired?" holds it out them Plum: "shoreeee" plum says (not disagreeably), raising an eyebrow more at keva being considerate than at the inkwell

Finn: finn clears his throat awkwardly "it seems that youre as exhausted as i am, yet i cannot suppress the urge to ask... why did you come to my aid earlier in battle?" Psalm: "Yeah I'm planning on just sleeping for the next several days..." he starts before trailing off, genuinely caught off guard. "Why? What do you mean why?" Finn: "there was no reason for you to come to me... or perhaps you were worried for han? thatd make more sense" Psalm: ?????? "I was helping you both.? I think in a life or death situation if you can help someone it goes without saying?" He pauses. "Or well, evidently not." He like mutters under his breath " 'why?' “ Finn: finn raises an eyebrow at that "there is no reason for any of you to aid me. i trust you havent forgotten what i am? life or death... im no longer tethered to the concept" he sounds somewhat displeased Psalm: "Alright next time I'll leave you to fend for yourself then." * eye roll * Remembering that he's easily misunderstood he goes "That was a joke." Finn: finn scowls more at the clarification, almost wishing psalm hadnt explained "had you not clarified, i certainly wouldve believed you" he then sighs "dont prioritize me in battle. im the most expendable member of this group...im best suited to facing danger head on" Psalm: Psalm like why does he seem like he'd rather I wasn't joking....🫠 "One, no one is expendable, but youre arguably the least expendable one here. Two, I'm not prioritising you, I'm helping. At no great cost to myself even, if that makes you feel better. Failing to see why this is an issue when you could just say thanks."

Identifying the items while Finn and Psalm have their conversation in front of them, Plum hands them back to their owners explaining the effects. Clovers that give its owner a bit of extra luck and an inkwell that never runs dry.

Cimmorro: "sounds, positive...? in any case i think rokka should have it... i was about to let my cat eat that thing" Plum: "i also think rokka should have it" plum says, handing it back to rokka and then handing keva her inkwell. they bark out at a laugh at what cimmorro says Rokka: "reallyy!? I can have it!?" he perks up excited to have a new cool and cute thingy Cimmorro: "you saved it, brother. also, an infinite inkwell is so useful too" Keva: keva holds it out to you "not for me" Cimmorro: cimm blinks "you can use it soon enough! besides, i already have a quill that saves me a ton of ink" Keva: she think to argue for a moment but decides against it and instead turns the inkwell in her hands as she walks Cimmorro: cimm is just pleased she relented (for now) Plum: "yeah keep it, if anything youll always have a full inkwell to hit someone in the head with" Keva: that makes her snort and smile Cimmorro: cimm laughs as he thinks of the strange choice of weapon

Rokka: "YEA--wait, i'm your brother...?" Cimmorro: "no, what i mean is, it's like a friendly term, yknow? bro, broseph.. not an actual brother-" vague hand gestures Rokka: "oh ohhh!! okay....haha." he awkwardly laughs a bit embarrassed Cimmorro: "yeah.. haha.. sorry for confusing you.." >awkward

Cimmorro: cimm just explains how to attune to it while they walk (to rokka) "you gotta put your soul into it rockstar..." Rokka: "my soul? so...kind of like this..?" he clenches both his fists and tightly shuts his eyes like "mmmmmmph!!" Cimmorro: cimm tries not to laugh but he is amused "yeah kinda, honestly you just have to concentrate it for a while. best to do it when you'd be undisturbed though. like back at the cabin since it would take a couple of hours" Rokka: "oohh! I think i kinda get it!!yeah yeah" he nods appreciatively "thanks cimmy!! ur really smart!" he gently smacks cimm on the back Cimmorro: cimm after u smack him on the back for the nth time "no.... problem" Chip: kids in the back of the car while mum and dad r fighting Cimmorro: FR THEYRE COPING RN Han: lit how han feels rn Psalm: It's bc they stopped for mcdonalds now they're arguing about what to order, Finn like we have food at home Han: tuna... Chip: we have tuna at home Finn: mctuna......

Finn: finn thinks for a moment, its hard enough to thank people as is but thanking the man whos rejected him in bed? an even greater challenge. he crosses his arms and grips at his sleeves "once again, i can only conclude that you are clueless" he eyes psalm coldly "but i will express my gratitude if i must. it was ..." he grits his teeth "reassuring. to have you there. considering the trouble that absolute clutz of a woman got me into" he cringes at the memory of saving han Psalm: Once again Psalm is amazed by the fact that Finn is insulting and complimenting(?) him at the same time."Oh for the love of-if youre gonna insult me why even bother thanking me then," he sounds more confused than anything, albeit kind of irritated because he's exhausted even after the short rest they just had. "And you should follow your own advice you know, prioritising Han's safety put you in danger. Kind of hypocritical of you to get on my case about it." Finn: "i told you im expendable" he shakes his head in disbelief "while youre under contract with my uncle, i wont let you die. no matter how much i wish i could..." he smiles at the last part "that should be reassuring for you, no?" Psalm: "While I'm under contract with YOUR uncle YOU'RE the expendable one? And that makes sense to you? I cant say I'm reassured at all." Finn: "im no longer asking you to comprehend, youve proven that youre incapable of that" finn sneers, but inwardly he wishes a second tuna would fall from the sky and hit his head, killing him instantly. this isnt what he wanted to say to psalm or ask, he didnt want the conversation to go this way at all "simply accept that i wield my sword for you for the time being" Psalm: Still not really understanding why hes being insulted out of nowhere but not taking the bait, he just grits out "As long as you accept that I can't have you and Han or anyone else dying on my fucking watch, which means that I'll have to help you from time to time even if you seem to hate it. Glad we could reach an agreement." Plum: plum \ mentally facepalming at finn Finn: finn nods, even though he disagrees "i will accept that, i suppose. youre very adamant about not leaving me room for anything else..." he sighs and gestures dramatically with one hand. he opens his mouth to say something else but examines psalm for a moment... maybe he wont be able to ask what he wanted to ask. but he can still talk to the man! "what makes you say that anyway? i did not think you attached to this group, much less myself" Han: han in the back group like wide eyed horror with a weak smile staring at nothing, whispers desperately "i wanted to say thank to finn for pulling me out of fire but now it feels like a bad idea....!" Plum: PLUM LAUGHING QUIETLY AT THAT Cimmorro: CIMM CAN'T EVEN LAUGH HE'S JUST LIKE. SHAKING HIS HEAD AT NOBODY IN PARTICULAR BC HE'S ALSO JUST AT A LOSS

Psalm: "Great," he says sarcastically. "And I don't think I need to be the best of friends with anyone to not want them dying around me, you included. Not sure what about this is hard to understand." Psalm kind of just raises his eyebrow at Finn looking like he wants to say more but doesn't push it because he doesn't care right now. It’s for the best. Rokka: this is stressing the baby (rokka) out Keva: i think keva just tunes out anything finn says that she doesn't need to hear Finn: finn gives psalm a puzzled look, one that suggests 'you actually care about strangers? youre so weird' but decides thats an argument for another day and thus chooses to continue the walk back in awkward silence instead

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> 🎵 Frontier Cavern (Theme) / Pikmin 2 OST

The party continue down the path, becoming accustomed to the darkness and the ambience of the forest at this point, though its still overwhelmingly eerie. Glancing up at the path they suddenly recognise it opening up once more to the entrance of Duskridge.

They find themselves confused how they’ve already made it back, considering the trek to Greenpea was much more eventful, but the lantern lights and path widening are just as they were before.

Han casts a quick detect portal spell to check, and finds she doesnt feel the same dim portal aura as they cross the threshold into town.

Cimmorro: "freedom at last question mark" Han: han looks back at the forest "yes, we do seem to be actually out... i want to sleep..........." crawls back to the ship Cimmorro: "neat.... good work guys..." wobbles over back to their room too Plum: "thank fuck" Psalm: psalm heading straight for the bath

The party amble back to the pelican for the night, walking through the empty and sleeping city. Even the few stragglers they were seeing around before seemed to have turned in, making it seem even more haunted then it did when they first arrived. The guardsmen near the airship and hanging around port give them nods as you approach and board the airship once more.

Vinny excuses himself and turns in as most of the group head to the communal bathing area, it appears to contain about 3 rooms with closed single baths and then a long communal one for soaking in. As they wander in they see a night worker cleaning one of the sinks give them a slightly shocked look at the state of their haggardness before he quickly ducks out.

Cimmorro: cimm just gives the cleaner a tiny smile "long night for both of us?" Worker: he gives you a look as hes ducking out "er...reckon' yours been longer than mine..." he scuttles away

Cimmorro: cimm isnt feeling abhorrently anti social rn so he wouldnt fight for a private one if anyone else wants it Han: communal bath yolo Rokka: communal bath yolo Plum: communal bath yolo Chip: wildlands babies Plum: freaks who love a sense of community

Cimmorro: realizing finn might want the private one after that thing with psalm Psalm: They're in the adjacent private stalls Cimmorro: hes listening to psalm's breathing thru the wall Psalm: JSHFBvdbajw

Han: han spends like 15 mins discreetly in the dresser alone fixing the burnt edges of her hair. and then when satisfied she cannonballs in yolo Rokka: rokka washing himself and the little creatures w him Cimmorro: cimms gonna go to communal one then too and prepares jasper for a bath time after all the mud

As Finn, Psalm and Keva enter the private stalls they're surprised by the amenities on the shelf. They spy nice bar soaps and bath salts, among herbs and other types of incense. Though the bath itself isn’t too large, they suppose this is half the reason the rides so expensive

Keva: keva curiously just, dumps everything into the bath bc she doesn't know what's what Chip: the water looks very foamy and bright blue...and smells pretty good..! Keva: she's delighted. keva's playing with the bubbles as she soaks... cleans up amos too and talks to him quietly "i played witch for a bit today, would you believe?" as she lightly tries to shape some suds into a hat on his little head

Psalm: Psalm spends a good amount of time smelling each salt lol for the PERFECT BATH Ghester: he voices an opinion on each one you smell despite the fact he himself cannot smell them Psalm: just me and the bestie about to take a bath

Finn: finn lights some incense up and dumps whatever he deems nice into the bath. surely two nice bath salts create the ultra bath salt.

Rokka, Han and Cimmorro spy similar amenities dotting the wall over the long communal bath, though somewhat less elaborate. They see spots to put their own cleaning tools and to light something sweet smelling in the room.

Rokka: "scruba dub dub doot doot doot! scruba dub dub a doot doot doot!" Plum: plum just chilling do not disturb

After her first divebomb Han realises the bath is not as deep as she thought it was, whacking aginst the tile she groans in pain. She sits on the side recovering slightly the rest of the time.

Cimmorro: scoots closer to han while she's recovering from her pelvic injury and quietly ask "how's the hair? i know you don't like cutting it so 🥹 " Han: han blue screens for a second cause she wasnt expecting cimm to remember "umm....... its... i dont know." she brings it to the front to show cimm "i cut off all burnt bits. felt like i was gonna be executed the whole time." Cimmorro: "omg, do you get punished for it?! or do you just feel that down about it" either way he gives her a light pat on the arm "it'll grow back >_< fire was mostly my idea, i feel a little bad" Han: han thinks a lil "umm..... you know, i dont know if anyone ever got punished for it. just felt wrong." she turns to cimm with a withered look with a smile "i did yell for anyone to light it up.. its fine, did what we thought was best. are you okay?" Cimmorro: "i understand... it's not like you wanted it to happen though! it was an accident, so..." he tries to comfort her with reason. "oh and yeah, i'm all fine," suddenly self conscious he examines himself for a moment "i was hit a little badly but not as bad as you or the others were really" Han: han looks back at her hair and plays with it a bit "yes, i suppose......." feels like theres something shes leaving unsaid. she throws the hair back and sinks into the bath "should i not be concerned if you were hit less?" 😒 "i will be concerned" hmphs n looks away like a baby "im glad it wasnt too bad though" Cimmorro: cimm lets her sink but laughs softly when she practically pouts at her show of care "that's not what i meant, but i appreciate you for looking out for me. didn't think you cared for me that much :3c" Han: splashes cimm 😐 Cimmorro: EEUGHHGE UGHG HOEKK PTOO Han: han satisfied cat smirk

Cimmorro: after the childish splashing he offers to han "if you wanna try cutting it so it's at least even, i'm just one knock away k?" Han: she pulls her hair again, like shes making sure its still there, and makes a withered expression again "ill. ill keep it in mind. maybe later. ... thank you" nudges him with her elbow Cimmorro: he gives you a thumbs up "now help me bathe her" gesturing to jasper to lighten up the mood again Han: hans about to complain but seeing how well behaved jasper is she pipes down n helps Cimmorro: "she needs the most help with under her wings" cimm shows han how to wash them gently Han: han calls rokka over to help w all the other lil guys he got hiding in his fur now

Psalm: Bath done psalm gonna head up to his room and pass out tbh Plum: im also gonna head back to my room Cimmorro: cimms gonna help with all the critter baths then wash up himself too before tucking in Han: han will wash up but wander the deck for a little bit before finally going down to sleep Keva: once keva's gotten her fill of bath play time and washing up keva's going to make her way to bed too.... sniffing her skin and hair bc she smells good for once and thinks to herself how rich people get everything as she sneaks into her and psalm's room to not wake him up Finn: finn spends an insane amount of time in the bath then. like he stays until 5am minimum.

The night goes on as the party put the evening ordeal behind themselves for the moment, they all head back to their rooms in their own time and ready themselves for bed. Exhausted they pass out and sleep until morning comes.

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> 🎵 Moth to a Flame / Beyond OST

As Psalm lays down to rest for the evening he finds himself pulled from the familiar landscape of a dream into a pitch blackness. One he’s seen and felt before. Ss he floats suspended, he waits with bated breath for the inevitable. Above him a line of bright lights comes to life one by one just as they have before, and the great inky shape of his patron makes itself known to him in the darkness.

The colossal cracked eyes stare down at him, similar to the times he’s seen them before, they appear in good spirits, for whatever that’s worth.

??: their cacophonous voice echoes in your head, forwards and backwards all at once “hello again, luckless one” Psalm: This is something Psalm will probably never get used to "Er... hello again..." ??: "yes. hello hello" the eyes lean in closer "you've moved on. see new things. you do good work" the giant hands reappear once again, one settles under your feet, allowing you to stand while the other gestures at the blackness "doing as asked. good choices. i am pleased luckless one, a worthy ward. worthy eyes. i think so" they pause for a moment as the eyes lean back again "i've a boon. another gift, for you" Psalm: psalm flashing back to every annoying conversation or dumb situation he's been in in the past week or so and just nodding like, "Glad to hear it." When they lean in closer he leans back a bit though, but he appreciates being able to stand up instead of floating aimlessly...! ??: as if sensing your thoughts the eyes slant upwards as if smiling "you've shown me much. of the world. things and people. that which i cannot see."

The being’s other hand comes to settle open palmed next to the one under Psalm. On it he see’s a brief bright white light appear before its enveloped in a dark shadow, the shape of it shifts and changes until he sees the shape of a black dog on all fours stood atop it. White lights shine in its eyes as it stands alert

??: "a dog to hunt. to stalk. to keep company" the dog quickly runs up to your side, suddenly friendly it lets out a bark, nudging your legs and panting. Psalm: Psalm watches the dog a bit out of curiousity before saying "I was beginning to get tired of Ghester, so the timing couldn't be better. Thank you.” ??: you hear a huffing sound as if the sounds of the ocean were reversed, you assume its laughing "the more the merrier, luckless one. ghester knows it. in fact. knew it once" they lift the hand that had the dog on it before as it shifts away into the blackness "been a while for it, since company. loyal. only for your eyes to see" the eyes lean close again "it will be in your shadow. a new comrade" Psalm: "I'm not sure I feel that way about my current companions, but I do like dogs." He's curious about the comment about Ghester. “I'm sure said companions won't take to this very well considering how apprehensive they were about Ghester in the beginning... maybe I'll keep it a secret." ??: "i dont mind. an amusing idea" with a bark the dog lays down on the ground comfortably before melting into the ground, the blackness of its shadow now settling under your feet "stay safe luckless one. that is all, for now. i will see you again. sometime"

The hand beneath Psalm begins curling up around him, though instead of being crushed in its grasp as he has before he is simply held there. Strangely comfortable in its grip he begins to feel himself lose consciousness as the lights above it begin going out one by one.

??: "you've earned. peaceful rest" as your eyes fall shut you feel your consciousness fade, and yourself leave the space once again. Psalm: psalm's last thoughts before going back to sleep are something along the lines of like "YOU BET I HAVE"

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> 🎵 Twilight River (Working) / Pikmin 2 OST

Psalm awakens the next morning with a small cough of black smoke, less intrusive than the last few times. Feeling rested and back on their feet as morning comes, The party all consider how to approach the day and little time they have left in figstup.

Rokka idles about the town a little but doesn’t get up to much as he waits for the airship to take flight once more. He finds himself a little sick of the place, and takes the time to stretch his limbs a bit.

Psalm and Keva make off at different times both to find a bookstore of sorts. They bump into each other at the same time inside the same sleepy used bookstore carved within the trunk of a grand tree. A sleepy half orc clerk sits at the desk near the back as they peruse the shelves.

Keva: keva just gives psalm a casual "morning" before going on her way to look for a cheap notebook or journal and msth to write with Psalm: he waves back but otherwise says nothing

Keva quickly finds the things she’s looking for, an empty journal and a quill and walks over to purchase her items, leaving the store soon after. She spends the rest of the day poking around the town and people watching.

Psalm sticks around a while, looking around for something interesting. The first tome he notices is one titled Elements and Elementals.

Elements and Elementals - the book is a collection of stories and essays focusing on a first-hand account of the journey from life to death told to the author by a ghost, a resurrected individual or a soul called forth from the other realms. an interview printed in the front speaks about how the author says critics say she sensationalizes the tales a bit to make death sound more frightening than it is, to which she challenges them to explore death on their own and then come back to talk about it.

Undecided he puts the tome away before looking for another, he stumbles upon a book titled ‘A children's guide to necromancy’.

A Children's Guide to Necromancy - It appears to be a picture book containing procedures regarding conjuring and exorcising ancient horrors of the deep seas, you cant quite tell if its fictitious or not, but the illustrations are quite nice.

Having a vested interest in ‘occult shit’ he puts the book aside for purchase, looking for anything else interesting in the store. He spies another tome titled Our Friend the Cactus.

Our Friend the Cactus - a dense acedemic treaty on the biology of cacti. If one has the patience it is very interesting in its own way. the book also details a large number of edible cacti, as well as those that can be used as water sources in the harsh deserts.

Psalm: he mutters "this sounds boring as hell"

Putting the tome back, Psalm gives the shelves one more look before he spots a book titled Shock and Awe.

Shock and Awe - A collection of poems written by an orcish adventurer and skald. the majority of the book is an epic saga, recounting the various deeds of the adventuring party the poet was a part of, with later short poems about specific aspects of adventurers' lifestyle. The later poems touch on a wide array of topics, such as the joys of a shared victory, longing for hearth and home, and the simple pleasure of splitting a foe in half lengthwise.

Taking an interest he adds to tome to the pile, then heads to the desk to purchase his items. On the walk back he hears Ghester pipe up within the back of his head.

Ghester: "packed and ready for the next ten days of our journey?" Psalm: "I'm hoping these poems last me the journey... if not... well I suppose I'll just learn necromancy." Ghester: you hear him snicker "in such an easy to understand format i'm sure we'll pick it up in no time!" Psalm: "Hope Keva doesn't mind. ^_^ "

Back on the airship, Plum readies themself for the morning as Finn checks in with them briefly.

Finn: "will you be going out?" finn opens the lid of his coffin enough to speak to plum Plum: "yessir," plum says, shuffling around to start their day. they check that none of the windows are open also. "why, you wanna come with or you need something?" Finn: "absolutely not... ive had enough of this place!" he sighs for dramatic effect "ill stay here and relax" Plum: "not a bad idea" plum says casually, but they head out anyways Finn: "later" finn says quietly as they head out and he shuts his coffin lid again

Plum makes to check out the local herbs and plants in the market square stalls, they recall the island is a little renowed for its uniqe strains for brewers and potion crafters.

They stroll up to one of the stores in the market square, the shopkeep gives you a jolly morning call as they peruse the items. What stands out to them the most as they eye the display are the dried stems of something called 'Ghostbloom' and the sharp petals of a flower called 'Winter Diamond'.

Ghostbloom - used in brewing to achieve a more neutral flavour

Winter Diamond - they look quite fancy, but seem to only provide a cooling mint taste, the shopkeep tells you if you crush them up and sprinkle them over the top of a drink it looks like snow.

Purchasing some of the petals, they then walk over to another stall and greet a lounging shopkeep in her chair, peering about the display they find something called Witch Weed sold in bundles.

Witch Weed - you're told they're a swamp plant that when touched give your skin a purple rash, though when dried and used in drinks it seems to provide a tangy aftertaste, almost like iron.

They give the item a pass and say goodbye to the shopkeep before checking out another stall. A young girl exaggeratedly calls them over to eye the wares. and they scan the boxes and spot something called a Boggle Cap inside.

Boggle Cap - a small dark grey mushroom that oozes a pale green sort of oil, she tells you its usually used to increase the viscosity of brews, but the oil itself is surprisingly sour and tastes good when eaten on its own as well.

Plum gives the item a pass, thanking the young girl before the idle about the town for the rest of the day.

Han heads off to check out the weapons shops, of which there are few. She manages to stock up on arrow supplies before becoming a little restless. She wanders about the cliffsides near the ocean.

Han: wondering why her mood is so shit, briefly wondering if theres a brothel that leans into the witch aesthetic rly heavily on here, then shes like augh i cant go...... then she realizes why shes rly bothered, and not one to think for too long... she hits up a few stores for some rags and some medium sized wooden sticks, and heads to an edgecliff outside of the town, trying to no go deep into the forest n keep on that cliff.

Able to go about finding what she needs, Han finds a small outcropping on the coastline within the city where no one seems to be roaming around or coming by. She gets to work setting up a small funeral pyre, the size of a square foot.

When she’s done she sits for a while, gathering herself, before pulling her hair tight and cutting off most of the parts that got burned off, putting it in the pyre and setting it aflame. As it burns she offers some blood into the fire but does nothing else and just sits and waits for it until the flames go out. Spending the rest of her day sitting near the cliffside.

Back on the Pelican, Cimmorro wakes after Vinny, bumping into him as he returns from a morning bath in their room.

Cimmorro: cimm yelps a bit and blinks in recognition "wuh good morning! how are ya feeling?" Vinny: he rubs the back of his head "certainly better than last night 😩" he walks to his bed and messes around with his suitcase putting things away "best sleep of my life ive had in a while at least..? exhaustion will do that i suppose" Cimmorro: cimm gives him a sympathetic smile. "ahhh, yeah i was worried we bit off more than what we could chew for a moment... but as long as we're in one piece i suppose...! 😵 " he sort of tails behind him as he continues "i'm gonna head out to check out the shops in a bit, are you gonna stay in here?" Vinny: he laughs a little "if im breathing i'm thankful" he then looks over with a blink "oh yes, i was planning to at least check out the herbaries" he scratches his chin "maybe components too... plus it'd be nice to see the city during the day..." Cimmorro: cimm decides to drop the topic of the events of last night as to not sour the rest of the day. "oh, sweet. want to come with me? i'm aiming to find some components as well and! i wanted to ask you something for han too" Vinny: he nods "i don't see why not" before shutting his case and putting on his overcoat "time to greet the brisk morning air, we can talk as we go"

Cimmorro: cimm just wears something easy and casual with a cloak to help with the morning breeze. he walks alongside vinny as he chatters about as they head out "yeah so, you remember how you were making that dye for han? and saw how bad the fire got to her hair right?" a pause as he comes with a realization "actually is yours fine...? you were in that fire for a while!" he cranes around vinny to examine his hair Vinny: he nods as you speak "ah yes i do recall that...and your rainbow potion" he smiles until you mention the hair before he blinks and turns his head touching it with his hands "ah. i didn't think to check..." he flusters as you eye his hair, it doesn't seem too bad looking, though more scraggly looking than usual when you stare hard Cimmorro: cimm goes behind vinny yelps, "ruby mother-- you have a bald spot!" with a dramatic gasp shortly followed by a laugh "...just kidding. you're fine but might need combing... and some conditioner" returning to walk alongside him with a snicker Vinny: he claps his hands on his head worried, eyes wide for a moment before you drop the joke and he sighs relieved but a little annoyed "maybe i'll buy a balm in town..." he starts messing with his fringe a little Cimmorro: "do you also make your own stuff for hair care? that relates to what i was gonna ask for han" he looks up in thought "i was wondering if you can also make a potion that would make her hair grow to length again? it seemed pretty important to her. not sure if she'd take it but! it's an option at least" Vinny: he thinks "not really for my own, no. but ive made them as products to sell before so i've some experience, nothing too fancy" he nods at the question "i can throw something together to promote hair growth if she'd like. the ingredients aren't too rare for something like that, so we could find it alongside the dye" he smiles encouragingly Cimmorro: cimm seems visibly relieved. "ohhh, i'm glad! yeah i'd like to look around for it then. if she turns out she doesn't want it then it's good to have one around just in case" he nods as if he's approving of his own idea. ("yes i am so practical and smart") Vinny: he laughs a little in response "always prepared, you are cimmorro" Cimmorro: "even with all the preparation, somehow i still find myself in the strangest predicaments these days" he sighs.

The two find an arcane shop and purchase some needed components and arcane paraphanelia. Cimmorro manages to haggle a bargain out with the shopkeep with the great assistance of the merchant Vinny by his side.

Cimmorro: cimm makes the purchase and after walking away he's just like 🥹 at vinny "you saved me a good handful just now" Vinny: he claps you on the shoulder with a laugh "well, this is basically my bread and butter haha, the importers in shorewater haggle harder actually" he looks down at the items he purchased for himself in a small satchel "this ought be most of what we need for our hair experiments... i also grabbed a few simple brewing tools, should last us" he looks up at you again with a smile "mission accomplished!" Cimmorro: "i don't know how you do it or how my bewitching charm fails me so often but i suppose it's to keep the flow of life in perfect balance so i shan't complain." he looks into the distance woefully as if he's carrying the entirety of the world's burdens by having -2 cha. then he goes yaaaaaay yatta wooo at vinny getting his brewing tools "i'm excited to see you cooking! but ah but i actually have one more stop.. i wanted to buy a book to keep me busy on the ship. and uh, spellbook" Vinny: he smiles "its more about knowing the base prices for things than charm really, and the collectors tax and.." he almost goes on but stops himself "sure, i think i saw a bookstore around the corner?" he thinks for a moment "why the need for a spellbook?" Cimmorro: cimm is like. unsure whether if he wants to be amused that vinny is taking the jest too seriously or be insulted that he didn't acknowledge that he is in fact charming. his thoughts cut short as vinny brings up the question though, and he almost turns a little flustered even. "ah. well, how do i put this... seeing all the things you could do got me thinking and i wanna try my hand at practicing... i already have a couple of scrolls so i thought, why not...?" he kinda starts avoiding vinny's eyes at this point not quite sure how to say what he wants to say Vinny: his eyes widen and he smiles brightly "really? cimmorro that sounds great! its a wonderful experience even getting into it in a beginner level!" he gestures with his hands almost excitedly recalling his own experience, like he's almost about to shake you "it's like a whole new world opens up in front of you. well you already have experience with magic of course, but even just learning the theoretical side is so interesting! like discovering the functions on which reality exists and is built..." he tempers himself a little realising how excited he sounded "e-er well i mean to say, im sure you'll find it insightful for your practice, though it's alot of reading old tomes and careful precision haha" he folds his hands as if to put them away and continues smiling at you Cimmorro: he's reduced to staring and listening to vinny as he goes about his spiel, half amused and half relieved. not like he was worried that vinny would make fun of him for admitting an interest but perhaps it's more on the side of being glad to see the outward supportiveness, esp at this point he does look up to vinny in a way. when he finally lets out a laugh he says "i already do a lot of scanning through countless pages, so what's more to add to the list? although..." he thinks over his next words "i'm still an amateur with reading arcane runes and jargon, i'll admit.. so i was wondering if you could assist me? whenever you have time of course...! i know i already ask a lot from you as it is so don't feel like you have to! by the way!" shyly kicks a pebble on the ground like a loser. Vinny: his face brightens again as you suggest the idea "oh come on, i know the basics like the back of my hand at this point, it wouldn't be much trouble, so why not?" he pats you on the shoulder amicably after "besides the next run on the airships gonna last us a bit, might as well have something to do besides laze around" he taps his hand to his chin thinking again "we should get a couple of the starters for enchantment then illusion... they're usually the easiest... then..." he starts getting lost in his own head planning an arcane shopping list, he seems grateful for the distraction on the journey ahead

The two go on chattering on the party go about their sleeping, shopping and contemplation on their final day in figstup.

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> 🎵 Nalhegrande / Granblue Fantasy OST

As dusk comes about they find themselves sitting comfortably in their rooms and dotted around the deck of the ship. as the ringing and shouts of the crewman accompany the take off of the pelican once more. For the time being they bid the sleepy misty island of Figstup farewell in the dark of night. The lights glitter in the distance as the mists and forests of the island overtake the island once more.

Next stop, Bakaldor, the capital city of Krenic.

Notes

—

🏹Han got A Haircut and filled up on「 Arrows✨ 」

🗡Keva bought「 An Empty Journal✨ 」and「 A Quill✨ 」

🔮Psalm bought 「 Numerous Tomes ✨ 」

🍺Plum bought some 「 Winter Diamond ✨ 」

💎Cimmorro bought 「 Various Arcane Components✨ 」

#recaps #YIPPPPEEE

0 notes

dndfuckhouse · 4 years ago

Text

session 33 - Introductions and Invitations

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> 🎵 Sword Search on Koholint Island / LOZ: Link’s Awakening (2019) OST.

After having spent the whole of the morning walking around the group find themselves drawn to the smell of fish wafting around the city square and head over towards the nearby café to refuel themselves over lunch.

After being greeted by the upbeat waitress they seat themselves and begin pondering the menu. The feeling of the bright midday sun beating down on their heads while the cool seaside breeze blows through keeps them company amongst the townspeople in the city square.

Cimmorro: the image rn is finn cimm han plum rokka in the same table..... psalm also but at the edge??? Chip: dnd cafe marching order being determined rn Celebrity Guest Aki: WHY DOES THIS SOUND SO UNBALANCEDD Rokka: BC IT IS Psalm: achieving total mental blankness trying to imagine this Keva:

Finn: im ordering nothing because i literally cant eat or drink Psalm: just ask for the bloodwine alone Finn: yeah ill just inconspicuously ask for fish blood in isolation Plum: they got that just for you actually the blood drink, god put that on there for you finn Psalm: yeah we called ahead

Noticing Keva struggling with the menu, Cimmorro moves to lend her a land subtly. Meanwhile Plum tells Finn they can order the dish that comes with fish blood and split it with him if he’d like.

Keva: she's not really looking at the menu much.... you probably just see her watching everyone else and checking the number on the menu for the thing they order Cimmorro: okay well he's going to look at you for a good second, contemplating if he should offer to help but realizes that might be a bad idea so he's just going to go get the waitress' attention and go like "what would be your best sellers here? and what you would recommend?" Cherry: she hums and thinks "i'd say the sea bed or the prawn's eyes usually sell pretty well! the salty dog ale is a local specialty as well, id recommend it if you aren't made queasy easy" she says with a laugh Keva: trying to picture wtf sea bed and salty dog could mean Cimmorro: (dwfl he wanted to order the sea bed) cimm nods at her and looks at the menu "10 sp for the sea bed... fish and bread sounds appealing today huh i'll have one," he says alla this w/ intention for keva to hear. and adds, "i think i'll just have a glass of water though, thanks" Keva: she looks at cimm for a moment, silently feeling grateful, and says "same as him" tilting her menu a bit towards cimm and hands the menu back

Plum: plum turns to finn and says "i could order this," and points to the caver's treat, "and you could have the cup of blood that comes with it, if you're hungry." Finn: hes already spacing out when plum suddenly speaks to him, whipping his head around a little startled. "oh" admittedly, finn wasn't hungry, or thirsty, but plums attentiveness does touch him a little. he nods. "that is very kind of you plum... if you truly do not mind, then ... id appreciate that." Plum: "sure, no problem" plum says to finn and takes a sip from their drink. they wave the waitress over to order one ＣＡＶＥＲ＇ＳＴＲＥＡＴ

The Group’s Orders ~ 🐟

Plum: Reaver’s Luck, Caver’s Treat Rokka: Berried Salmon, Reaver’s Luck Psalm: Berried Salmon Han: The Phoenix, Fishers Teeth (takeout - Caver’s Treat ) Keva: Sea Bed Cimmorro: Sea Bed

Taking the orders, the waitress gives a nod and scuttles off. After a small wait the dishes are brought out, the scent of fish overpowering the place. The group find their meals appetising and begin to dig in and chatter amongst themselves. Finn stealthily transfers the bloodwine into a cup of his own he can discretely drink from while Keva wraps and saves a slice of the bread for later consumption.

Finn: he clinks his glass with plum to thank them for the fish but before he takes a sip he blinks "oh... what are we to do with the fish plum?" Plum: they clink their mug with finn's and then gives him a confused look. after a moment they look like they're trying not to laugh a little. "what made you think i wasn't gonna...eat it?" plum asks before picking up a fork. Finn: "i simply thought it might be a bit much.. is all.." feeling a little stupid for having asked now. "and it is meant to be eaten with the blood after all.. " Plum: "oh, nah. it was two gold pieces so i'd better finish it, honestly," plum says and starts eating. "also i don't really want the blood," they stop and make a hand gesture as if to say that finn can just go ahead and enjoy the blood himself. Finn: he fails to control himself and finish listening to plum, chugging the glass in one go, feeling particularly satisfied and sated for now. "ah, please... i will pay for it of course, you ordered this for my sake" he says quickly as if he didnt just drink that like a possessed man Han: finns eyes do the cat silly time thing Cimmorro: yess finn goo you fucking horse Han: vibrates in his chair cause he got the blood zoomies

Plum: "or we can just split it" plum says casually, not saying anything at the change in finn's demeanour for a moment there. it'd probably be rude to seem a bit surprised.

Rokka: “LOOKING GOOD” Cimmorro: "kinda pog as they say...." cimm gives his thanks to wee jasus christ and begins to eat in a decent pace... just focused on eating Rokka: halfway through chewing rokka talks with his mouth full, "watsh pogh" Cimmorro: cimm looks disgusted at you, once again, for talking with your mouth full. and just goes. "oh you know like- [does the pog face for a split second]" before going back to his food though he looks up at you again the next second and goes like "oh right. rokka, here." he slides 35gp across the table to you. "for the time at nickels." and he just goes back to eating Rokka: "ohhh so then if i wanted to say my food is "pog" i can just [makes the pog face]?" he looks down at the money "oh! you didn't have to pay me back....thanks though!" le pockets money Han: han goes (mgs ❗ noise) and starts fishing in her side pocket too "wait i owe you for bedroll and rope" and hands rokka X gold Rokka: he then turns to han "WHAT!!! NO, NO ITS OKAY!!" he tries to push it back to han Han: she doesn't even touch it again and goes back to food "i dont like being in debt" Rokka: he stares at the xgp before reluctantly taking it seeing as han refusing to take it back "alrigghtt. thanks hannn" Han: 😇 Psalm: he watches Rokka’s exchanges for a moment. "It just occurred to me that now would be a good time for that drink you owe me." Cimmorro: cimm looks at rokka and psalm and goes "i'm starting to learn that it's a bad idea to be in debt to you psalm" Psalm: "I think I'm pretty fair all things considered 😇 " Cimmorro: he just sighs and goes back to his food

Rokka: his head whips over to psalm like !!!!! "i-WHAT--oh! yeah....do you.......want to share my drink?" Psalm: "No I don't...?" Rokka: well, then.......what do you want?" Psalm: "One salty dog ale please (: ." Han: did chip plan for this joke. its too perfect? Psalm: WAIT YOU'RE SO RIGHT Han: I LEGIT THOUGHT IT WAS A GAG U WERE DOING AND LOOKED AT THE MENU Chip: LIFE FINDS A WAY....

Ghester: you hear a chuckle in your head followed by a voice that says "well he's a good sportsman about it" Psalm: "It was his idea to play." Rokka: he looks around "HUH WHAT?!" Ghester: "that makes a person more reluctant sometimes" he then laughs at rokka's reaction Psalm: he scoffs. Rokka: he abruptly stands up from the table and shaking the table in the process "OK WHATS GOING ON"

Getting agitated by Ghester’s repeated remarks, Rokka bolts up from his seat ending all other conversation in his wake, the rest of the party stares at him, grabbing their plates instinctually in case he flipped the table over. The waitress in the meanwhile hands Pslam his newly purchased drink on Rokka’s dime.

Ghester: "oh he's gotten excited" says the voice Rokka: “WHO!?” Psalm: psalm is just drinking casually

Cimmorro: when rokka finally settles down, cimm just looks at him like 🤨 before looking at psalm again, "speaking of being fair, why don't you tell us about your little friend... ghester? you said you'd tell us about them, no?" Psalm: * doesn't remember what he said * "Yeah alright. I introduced Plum and you already right?" Cimmorro: he nods "introduced us... but we don't even know who or what you introduced us to" Rokka: just looking up at the sky like "....hello?" Plum: they had jumped at rokka's reaction but at the mention of their name by psalm they think they can guess what's happening now. Finn: he was gonna reply to plum but because of all the commotion his attention is focused on psalm rn, but he is bouncing his leg under the table Keva: she just has no idea what's going on

Psalm: "Your guess is honestly as good as mine." @ ghester "You want to explain? I myself am not really sure what to say." Ghester: he chuckles before speaking into the rest of your heads "hmm... well you may call me ghester. i am a companion of sorts to your lovely friend psalm here. pleasure to meet you" Rokka: "ghost...........?" side eyes psalm Psalm: "No I don't think that's quite it." Rokka: “then what?” Psalm: he just shrugs Rokka: rokka slowly nods as if he gets it but he doesnt

Keva: she jumps a bit "what the fuck" Plum: plum shivers at the sudden voice in their head. "i really thought the cult would be the weirdest thing with y'all and yet." Han: she squints her eyes "can you like, read our minds? do you have a body? are you stealing psalms...?" han leans in quizzically and stares at psalm Ghester: he laughs "no i cannot read anyone's mind, not even his. nor do i hold any control over him, i dont think he'd quite appreciate me doing it even if i could" he thinks "i dont have a body, though i feel like maybe i did once, a funny thought to have these days" Han: she pouts thoughtfully but her brain is actually empty "hmmm" Cimmorro: damn so no cock penis? Han: hate your ass Finn: im just imagining the voice of the book from nier rn for this guy Chip: YOU SHOULD THATS HIM Plum: oh my god that was the decided voice, thats so horrible Han: liam obrien haunts us everywhere

Finn: he does squint at psalm, but he thinks that ghester’s voice is quite pleasant so its not like its a huge hassle. after psalm told them about this, at least. he is a bit irritated over having thought he was hallucinating it a while ago. Plum: "doesn't sound like he's been with you for too long" Psalm: "It's been a couple weeks. Maybe a month." Plum: "wow, that's shorter than i expected. i've already known you fuckers for a week by now." Cimmorro: he just kinda looks confused towards psalm and responds to ghester "uhh huh... are you the reason why he coughs smoke or..." Psalm: he’s just blinking at Cimm like oh you saw that lol whoops Ghester: "not directly, but its related. i guess you could say im a conduit for his magic. in charge of watching over him" Cimmorro: just shaking his head at psalm and how he said they've only been together for a short time... like what is wrong with yall

Finn: "and you just.... hid this from us?" Ghester: he chuckles at you finn "thats a funny response" Finn: "im sure it is after youve messed with all our heads" bouncing his leg quicker Psalm: "What reason would I have to tell you? It's not like I've known any of your for all that long." Plum: looking at finn like you good bro Finn: "if you didnt want to tell us you should do better to keep your parasite out of our minds then" Ghester: "ooh quite harsh" Psalm: “Right? Yeesh. Why am I being put on trial here? He called you a parasite (lol)." Cimmorro: "i get the feeling that you don't wanna share more about this. but i just wanna know if you communicating with the rest of us like this won't harm us in any way..." no video game rpg sanity drain so to speak Keva: squinting like wtf does magic do to you...... is orin okay...... Ghester: "oh nothing to worry about there, my job is to keep him safe. If you are his friends then this extends to you as well, quite the opposite of harm" he turns his attention back to you psalm and laughs at his joke Cimmorro: cimm just hums at this, not entirely convinced but it's good for now Finn: just staring at you for a moment longer before looking away, expecting psalm to understand without actually saying anything because he's awful. Psalm: Psalm just 🤨 ...? and just decides to go back to his drink. Finn: finn: dear uncle, ive witnessed another cringe moment. this is number 10 in the top15 list

Psalm: "I think friends is generous :j , but rest assured that for now your life isn't being slowly siphoned away from you or whatever it is youre worried about. At least I don't think it is /s" Ghester: "i wonder why you would even put the thought out...? Psalm: "Because it's funny?" Ghester: [sigh] Plum: "thanks, i feel a lot better about that now." Rokka: just staring at u dead on sarcasm flying over "wait......HAVE U BEEN FEEDING OFF ME" Ghester: he laughs jovially at you "theres nothing on you to eat dear boy" Han: han thinks 'damn... does he mean rokka has no brains to eat....'

Han: she thinks for a bit "do you have big range? before you cannot hear us?" Ghester: "hmm from wherever our good man here is standing i can hear about 120 or so feet...granted you yell when you are far away that is" Han: "does that mean you hear through psalm? and here i thought you would be useful for undercover work" han sighs a bit Psalm: "I have to agree with you on that one. Kind of disappointing." Ghester: "not necessarily, if he cant hear i still can. i can talk to you all if you are all that far away as well even if he himself isnt close" @ psalm "and here i thought you were my one ally at this table" Psalm: :j Han: "oh hmmm... that suppose that is useful..." han thinks abt strategies.. Keva: she sarcastically mumbles "just what i always wanted, a ghost from i don't know where doing god knows what, listening in on whatever i'm doing" Ghester: he laughs Rokka: he mumbles to himself after hearing this "scary..." Cimmorro: well then he stifles a small laugh and looks at keva "what could possibly go wrong, yeah?" Keva: "can't think of a single thing" Psalm: "It's thanks to him (and plum) we didn't lose your money to Rickert though. So I'd say for now the pros are more than the cons." Ghester: "oh such rare praise" Cimmorro: "oho is he not always this nice to you?" Ghester: "tis' a heavy burden i carry" Psalm: "Stop framing it like I'm picking sides" Ghester: [laugh] Plum: "true, and he's more personable than his host," plum says jokingly Psalm: "Alright, alright already." psalm waves everyone off Han: han is like 👁 but also snorting at this

Cimmorro: "aww you poor thing... psalm be more nice... i think ghester does care about you, you know... he immediately went to me when you were unconscious." Psalm: he just rolls his eyes Ghester: "well... as far as charges go i could have been given far worse" you feel a warm presence before he snickers "try not to bully him too much" Han: "far worse?" Ghester: "hmm well imagine if i were companion to someone completely silent...now that would be a trial" Han: she ponders the previous thought "you are right (@ ghester) at least psalm is funny sometimes." Psalm: 🤨 "Okay, pester Psalm hour is over now. Hope you all had your fun." SWATS THE AIR IN FUTLITY Ghester: [laugh] Plum: they wants to say we're not even talking to you we're talking to ghester but they'll leave him alone Keva: she snorts at the try not to bully him and pops a piece of bread into her mouth Cimmorro: he smiles at the warmth but also "no bullying, not even in your honor? you are so humble, king..." and just laughs at psalm swatting everyone off Psalm: "I try." Ghester: he laughs "you'll be fun to be around im sure" Keva: "oh he likes you" like someone talking abt a pet taking a liking to someone Cimmorro: "he knows how to pick them... " he laughs and responds to ghester "if you ever change your mind on bullying psalm, you know who to call"

Plum: "you changed your mind pretty fast, huh?" @cimmorro, plum is amused they're not making fun of him Cimmorro: "oh i'll still get him whenever i can. just leaving the offer with ghester in case he wants to join in." Plum: "oh, i meant on warming up to psalm's mind demon in the first place, but true" plum says Cimmorro: "oh well he's a charmer. what's not to like" he laughs Plum: "agreed" Ghester: "flattery will get you everywhere" Plum: "hah, i guess that's true ain't it." flattery's not really their thing, but they give an amused laugh.

Finished with their food and their curiosity over Ghester for the moment sated, some of the party get up to go pay for their meals while others continue to sit and chat. As they do Han continues messing about and pulling Ghester’s attention over.

Han: she covers her mouth with her hands and whispers to herself "ghesterrrrr can you hear me? tell psalm he looks like a strawberry." then get distracted and moves her hands "actually, can you move things? or are you simply ghostly" Ghester: "i cannot. lest i am a weapon psalm has willed me into and is...well using me to move things" a beat passes "all these ghost comparisons are amusing" Han: "ooooh... maybe living weapon... cool :D" Psalm: "He's what I've been fighting with this entire time." Keva: she’s gonna get up and head to the counter where she spies people paying for their food, and as she passes psalm she kinda gives a little shrug like "i tried" to change the subject lol Psalm: psalm nods, benedict cumberbatch salute

Han: she has lightbulb moment "your weapon that seems to change every time i look? and that you never actually carry on you?" Psalm: "Yes that would be the one."

To drive the point home psalm has Ghester discreetly apperate in his hands as a short sword for Han.

Cimmorro: psalm like yosuke persona 4 pulling out his katanas at the convenience store and gets arrested for it Psalm: I ASSUME EVERYON EELSE HER JUST HAS WEAPONS HONESTLY LIKE I THOUGHT THAT Cimmorro: NO ONE WHIPS IT OUT IN A RESTO Psalm: HDG WELL I DO NOW Cimmorro: AND THEN WE HANDED PSALM CHAN OVER TO THE POLICE

Han: "ghester, can i have you?? it would be super useful to change from bow to glaive in second.." han is v excited now Finn: he’s getting up yet, being intrigued by an ever changing weapon........but he feels too awkward to actually comment on it. he thinks han's reaction is kinda cute. Ghester: he laughs jovially again "sadly you cannot have me, him and i are bound. you'll have to look elsewhere, though im flattered by the thought" Han: "aww booo" han pouts and flicks at the sword (if its in arms reach anyway) Psalm: "I'm amazed you even asked honestly." on the outside psalm is :/ but on the inside psalm is like 😏 Han: HAN LOOKS AT PSALM PUZZLED Psalm: PSALM JUST LOOKS BACK AT HER LIKE WHAT? Han: she shrugs and lets it go

Chip: the pact is marriage <3 Keva: exactly, ordained by psalm's patron Psalm: why areyou trying ot homewreck me he's happily married Cimmorro: damnn psalm already taken before this campaign even started... how can we homewreck that beautiful marriage Chip: next quest Psalm: OI

Having had their fun messing with Psalm the rest of the group get up to go pay for their meals. The party idle around deciding what to do next, as they chat Han orders and waits for an additional meal to be prepared for her to take back to the Swallow’s Perch for Ferrie and the others.

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> 🎵 Village of Rynoka / Moonlighter OST

Han: oh before everyone starts leaving han is like "oh oh oh, ferrie chris insists everyone stay at the swallows perch.. its free food and bed " Rokka: "WHAT" Han: "yea :D" Finn: finn gives you this look 🤨 Han: "you included" Rokka: rokkas tail wagging at mach speed bc free roof and food epic!!! "THATS AWESOME!!! TIME TO GO PACK THEN" he quickly gets up and immediately heads home to do as he said Han: han waves bye :D.... Rokka: waving in the distance as he runs off Finn: "i ... see" he cringes at the fact that he will need a new residence soon, and that this is the most convenient option. however, he absolutely doesn't want to be stuck with the others. bad enough that they'll have to travel together for so long

The group split off their separate ways, Han sticking around to wait for her food, though Finn also sticks around to continue chatting with her about Ferrie’s offer.

Finn: finn rolls his eyes and crosses his arms. "ugh. not much of a choice, is it?" he pulls up his scarf more before continuing. "if you want me to stay so badly theres something youll have to do for me first." Han: HAN LOLS INTERNALLY and cocks a hip "what might that be? dont overestimate how badly i want you" Finn: finn makes a grimace, you can tell from his visible eyes. "ive no interest in women, give that up this instant" (so full of himself he believes that) he begins rubbing his temples. "anyway, itll give you an opportunity to be closer to me, i suppose." and motions for you to come closer Han: han guffaws "what?? and i have little interest in small men that cant handle me. whats that got to do with your favour?" she seems entertained and leans in Finn: finn is confused by hans push and pull, was she hoping to charm him somehow like this? when she leans in he yanks her down more to a comfortable level (by her hair) and whispers "i will say this as clear as i can to" an insult lies in the tip of his tongue but his scolding uncle appears in his mind "you. i want you to stealthily move my coffin to that inn, once i have to leave my quarters. youre the strongest so i trust youre capable. ill reward you if need be" Chip: WHY IS THIS THE GREEN M&M COPYPASTA JUDE ? Cimmorro: P;'TLQ30TO305O-0RQOFASF CHIP ILL ILLL MAUL YOUHG Finn: finns done fighting w cimm he needs someone new to hate him Psalm: finn's moral compass is his uncle its not even an angel devil him situation, its vorde

Han: han’s entertained demeanour drops immediately as her hair gets grabbed and shes mad and even madder that she didn't catch that so she just grabs finns hand painfully as he holds her hair and whispers with contained anger without even listening to whatever finns saying "dont do that. if you want to play friendly." Finn: he winces when she grabs his hand like that. normally he would not yield just yet but a fight in direct sunlight, with their bulkiest party member, is not what he needs. he lets go of her hair quickly. "i assumed it was fine to be playful around you. my apologies." <- genuinely meaning this Han: han is silent for a second "... just not the hair" and she drops finns hand "what did you say you need" Finn: "note taken. not the hair." he rubs his hand before going on his tip toes to talk to her instead this time. "i need you to move my coffin the day i move out. but obviously i dont want the whole city to see us with that thing, if you catch my drift." taking on a neutral, dry tone. Han: han thinks briefly "consider it done. i can burrow the inns cart and hide your coffin... actually, what exactly .. is it." Finn: finn blinks a little in surprise, not having expected her to still do it after he's pissed her off. his eyes get a little bigger, 🥺 like. "you will? i.. thank you. we can work out the details closer to my departure..." Han: han is like augh 🙄 at the puppy eyes bc she is immune to them "yea, just tell when to show up" Finn: "ill let you be on your way then." going off his tippy toes and waving goodbye for now Han: han waves him bye too......... cherry wheres my takeaway Cimmorro: how yall going to explain to ferrie chris abt finn's coffin Keva: dont worry about it its his burden to bear Celebrity Guest Aqua: His jesus cross to drag

After waiting a few more minutes Han is handed her takeaway, she soon scuttles her way back to the Swallow’s Perch with the meal, heading in she notes that Cimmorro isn’t back yet either. She promptly hands the food over before getting ready to work on the clock for the rest of the day. Layne joyfully takes the lunch as its handed to him, Ferrie steals a bite from it as well while Jessep stares at it and remarks he's full.

Soon after the two’s conversation, Finn heads back to the blacksmiths to get his rapier worked on for the day, finding no need to head over to the Swallow’s Perch for the moment. The rest of the party head to their inns to prepare and transfer their belongings over, Plum and Cimmorro however make a brief stop off at Vinny’s store first to check in on the goings on and to see if he’s returned yet.

The two glance at the building once they reach it, though it doesn’t exactly look to be open. Squinting through the window they see Cole bumbling around behind the counter in the back. Cimmorro waves at her from beyond the window though she doesn't seem to notice prompting Plum to knock on the glass instead.

Cole: you see her head swoop over like : D ? before she recognizes the two of you, and comes over to the front door, appears it was locked after all, as she wrangles it open the bell jingles "hey guys!" Cimmorro: cimm goes hiya and asks her if everything's been good around Plum: "hiya, i'm just here to buy one or two things" Cole: "yep I've just been cleaning up since vinny still isnt back" she tilts her head with a sigh before turning to you a bit more chipper plum "oho... were closed but ill make an exception for my new pal" she gives you a wink and ushers you in Plum: they jump a little at that and are a bit embarrassed now. a bit red, they scratch the back of their head and say, "i mean, you don't have to. i was just lookin' for shit to buy for my mom and pop before they got here... nothing serious." Cole: "aw dont worry about it, and if its something that easy then its all good for me to let ya nose around" she smiles as she waves her hand Cimmorro: "still no show huh, don't have any news when he'll be back too?" Cole: she frowns as she walks over to the counter "no... but if he isn't back tomorrow ill go over and see if they'll let me poke my head in..." she shakes her fist "he's...got important obligations here... yknow!" next to her one of the cats on the counter meows Cimmorro: he leans over and tilts his head looking at the cat "indeed, very important obligations." he pats the cat's head. "oh but don't get into trouble trying to get him though haha... in any case i oughta be going but i'll be peeking in from time to time. let him know i'm looking for him if you get the chance though, yea? thanks cole" he gives her a smile before gesturing to plum that he'll be heading back first Cole: she folds her arms "aauugh guards and wizards.... but sure thing, i'll...twist their arms somehow!" she gives you a cheery wave as you trot off Cimmorro: he kinda just smiles while shaking his head at that as he walks on off Plum: plum waves goodbye to cimmorro. they're kinda curious because they thought cimmorro was gonna buy something but whatever.

Going off ahead Cimmorro trots off back to the Swallow’s Perch noting Vinny still hasn't been able to return to his own store just yet. Walking back he gets a quick idea and shoots off a sending spell towards him to ease his mind over Cole and Ezra’s current statuses.

Cimmorro: "yoohoo, this is cimmorro. we found cole and ezra all safe and well. they've been back at your store since yesterday. no need to worry." Vinny: after a brief pause you hear a quiet sigh of relief in your head followed by words said in a whispered hush "i cant quite speak right now but. thank you so much, i mean that genuinely" followed by the typical silence Cimmorro: cimm scrunches his face a bit but will continue going abt his merry way then

Soon after he makes his way back to Swallow’s Perch, second after Han, and settles in their shared room. In the meantime Plum takes the time to pick out a few items from the store shelves as gifts for their family, chatting with Cole once they bring them back over to the counter to purchase them.

Chip: the cat seems to stare at you for the duration of this transaction Plum: "what's this one's name?" Cole: she turns her head and scratches its head "this ones coal" Plum: plum snickers. "what? did vinny name this one before or after meeting you??" Cole: she laughs "before! before! this guy here's my senior teaching me the ropes" the cat starts purring Plum: "right, how long have you been round here again?" Cole: she stretches back thinking "hmmmmm a year ago now...probably two actually" she scratches her chin "it's a nice city though, the airs so ...fresh around here even though its so busy" Plum: "yeah it is nice. too bad i'm not sticking around for much longer, i wanted to see the ocean better " plum says, mostly conversationally. "anyways, thanks for the stuff. and good luck getting that wizard lady to let go of vinny, also." plum huffs out a laugh. "poor guy." Cole: she pumps her fist "im getting him back here at some point at least! maybe ill wrangle ezra into it..." she thinks to herself before turning back "you should head down to some of the docks soon, they're real fun for peoplewatching" she says with a smile walking over with you back to the front door Plum: [pumps fist in return] "maybe i'll do that later then, thanks. seeya." Cole: she sees you out with a wave and locks the door behind you as it jingles, getting back to...you're not sure what she was doing actually. Finn: PLUM GOT HER ROUTE UNLOCKED Han: DONT SQUANDER UR CHANCE FOR A CUTE GF Plum: i will Han: oTL

Content with their purchases Plum heads back to their inn to begin their transfer to the Swallow’s Perch. Slightly ahead of them, Psalm and Rokka return to the Hole in the Wall and get the few things they have all sorted to go.

Heading out they note that at the front desk this time appears to be Artie as opposed to the other two employees that work there, perhaps they have their hands full with something at the moment. He silently notes the duos departure and mail transference with a surly nod.

Artie: at mention of the swallow’s perch he tilts his head and remarks “good place. got decent pie there” sending you on your way Psalm: "Also, if Ruth and Esther Brimdrorvi come looking for me can you direct them down the street please." Artie: he nods silently Psalm: Nice Rokka: i give artie my farewells and wait for psalm bc wynaut

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> 🎵 A Tavern on the Riverbank / The Witcher 2 OST

The two make their way to the inn next door, after a bit of chatter with Layne he leads them upstairs and directs them to the empty rooms they have upstairs on the first floor, adjacent to Cimmorro and Han’s shared room.

Rokka: "what room are u going to?" Psalm: "I have no preference." That being said he just goes up to the first empty room he finds and opens the door. Rokka: he nods and walks a little further down the walkway and goes into the second room

The two each take an empty room for themselves, forcing those who show up afterwards to decide who they’d prefer to room with. Across the street Keva also checks out of the Out and Inn similarly asking for her mail to be rerouted. At the counter are the two twins who quickly send her on her way

Flinn and Pin: they remark that one of the dwarves there will give you beer at a discount if you tell him a funny joke, but do not specify which one. Keva: she makes a face like 🤨 but with an amused smile "okay... thanks?" and heads over to the swallow's perch

As Rokka and Psalm settle in across the way, Cimmorro in his room takes has a thought and decides to shoot off another sending spell to another important recipient.

Cimmorro: "ulle!!! it's your cimmy. i wanted to show off what i can do now ehehe i'm going to be so cool when i get back" <--- he sounds very excited Ulle: you hear a confused sound in your head in response before spluttering noises and a response "whoa i was-bleh, eating a sandwich just now you scared me! haha this is so cool hey hey mahalia ! cimmorro just spoke to me-" before it cuts off

As Han’s shuffling about and doing some menial tasks around the rooms on the first floor she overhears the sending spell and pokes her head in to spy on Cimmorro. At the same time Keva soon arrives at the inn, getting the same spiel from Layne downstairs she heads up to the first floor hallway staring at which room to pick while Han blocks one of the doorways.

Keva: she does not want to room with psalm and his spying ghost. she does not want to room with rokka bc headache. she does not want to room with han bc headache........... but she figures she has to talk with cimm anyway so........ least of the evils Chip: women and cimm united front Cimmorro: clerics who respect women

Han: "were you talking to someone?" Cimmorro: cimm plops his back into his bed, completely relaxed and thanks wee jas in his head "ohhhh... this is one of the best things you've ever let me have!! thank you, thank you, lady wee jas >_<" and then notices han come in and acknowledges her. "hm? i was casting a spell... did you need anything?" Keva: keva's standing behind han blocking the doorway, in that time she is considering whether she should change her mind Han: she shrugs "nothing, just heard u talking, got curious- AH" at keva teleporting behind her and stares at her for 2 seconds before going "im going back to chores, bye" and scuttling off Cimmorro: he just looks at you two like 🤨 Keva: she moves out of her way and says bye back after she's already left like 🤨 "any room in here?" Cimmorro: he looks at you for a moment before understanding what's going on "oh you're staying here? that makes things so much easier for me. yeah there's room, though han can be a bit energetic" he laughs and points at a spot in the room Keva: she looks back in the direction han left for a moment "yeah that's going to be fun" /s, she'll go over and plop her few things down Cimmorro: a laugh "she's like that... though she can easily be distracted lolll... i think she'll be more focused on dress making than at you, for tonight at least." Keva: keva tosses her cloak on the bed while mumbling "thank the gods for that." turning to cimm "does she work here or smth?" Cimmorro: he nods at you as he sits back up on his bed "she was already here when i arrived a few weeks ago. i'm sure she's been here for way longer" Keva: "hm. well, don't let me get in the way of what you were doing." and she gonna climb onto her bed and take out a little bit of bread to feed amos Cimmorro: he watches you do that for a sec before going "okay, i'm still beat from going around the stores earlier myself so... we can talk about what you want to do with your outfit later. give it some thought meanwhile.."

As Keva settles in, Han remembers to head over to Ferrie Chris and notify her that Finn will probably be showing up later in the week.

Han: "the pampered one will come later... ill borrow the cart to fetch him, if its ok.." Ferrie Chris: she tilts her head from where shes bent over moving crates "hm? sure whatcha need it for anyhow? Han: han shrugs "he needs some stuff moved" Ferrie Chris: she squints "how much stuff could tha' guy have...?" she shakes her head "eh 's fine, we moved most of the stuff earlier in the week anyway" Han: SHE SHRUGS HARDER

As the two of them chat Cimmorro and Psalm both begin the process of attuning to their newly bought weapons in their rooms, though Psalm also goes through the additional ritual of designating his new scimitar as his pact weapon.

Ghester: for the latter ritual ghester is silent the entire while until the end in which he lets out a sigh, quickly remarking how strange a sensation that was Psalm: "Strange how?" Ghester: he ponders the thought a moment "like growing another limb, despite the fact that i dont have any in the first place" Psalm: he nods like he gets it even though that's kinda weirdchamp

As the group settles for the afternoon Plum also arrives at the inn, the last of the party to make their transfer for the day. Receiving the same spiel as those before them they waddle up to the first floor, deciding to pick whoever is behind the closest door to them for their roommate, the result being Rokka.

Chip: for your viewing pleasure

Cimmorro: AKFHJLKASFKSAJFAKLWFKAL Han: EMO A;LKDHGKLLKDSF Keva: I'M LAUGHING THAT GHESTER AND AMOS COME WITH US NOW Chip: your government assigned leeches

Rokka: his ears twitch and he turns towards the door "come in!!" Plum: "oh it's you rokka, nice. you don't mind being roommates do you?" Rokka: he perks up seeing plum enter, "oh plummy!! hi!! i don't mind at all in fact im glad we can be roomies hehehe" rokkas tail wags in delight Plum: "ok great, what are you up to for the rest of the day, then?" Rokka: "hmm" he taps his chin and looks up to think "nothing much unless you wanna do something with me? :D" Plum: "i'm not up to anything today, so sure. got anything in mind?" Rokka: "we can work on that music box you got!!" Plum: "oh, right! forgot about that thing." plum says, and starts fishing around in their bag of holding until they pull out the ＭＵＳＩＱＵＥＢＯＸＥ Rokka: he moves next to plum and leans his head closer to them "i don't know much about fixing music boxes so I don't think i will be much help but i can cheer you on :D" he tilts his head a little "whaddya think it would sound like once it can play" Plum: "i think it'll probably play, just not very well. i'm not even sure how this thing is broken. also thanks, if you cheer me on that means i definitely have to fix this thing though." plum says, lifting the box carefully to peek at it. Rokka: "yeah i had a feeling it would sound like that too...i cant wait to hear it in its full glory" rokka goes 🥺 and speaks with a little gentler tone "i just thought its another way i could help you is all." Plum: a little embarrassed now plum just says "right..." and trails off. then after a moment of looking at the box they say, "y'know this thing might not actually be broken after all. so it only plays on a full moon, right? and i thought that was just some kind of charm attached to it for fun or somethin', probably is. but other than that it's a functional music box. think the seller thought that little catch to it meant it didn't work." plum says this all in one go without realizing because they like to talk about magical objects. "personally," they continue, "i don't think that means it's broken. i think that just makes it more special. i could probably make it so that it plays all the time though, what do you think?" Rokka: he silently nods throughout plums explanation simply enjoying them talking more than usual in one sitting, "thats a bummer we gotta wait until then for it to play but if you can make it play ALL the time that would be super cool of you plum!" he gives them a thumbs up Plum: "well i can try, anyways."

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> 🎵 Tired Rynoka / Moonlighter OST

Plum begins working away at the music box as Rokka sits attentively beside them for the rest of the day. In their own mind they decide their course of action is going to be to change the enchantment into a dual purpose one. A person will still need to wind the music box on a full moon to have it play, but it will also play whenever if Rokka is the one to wind it.

Getting to work on inspecting it Plum finds the enchantment is inscribed weirder than they’d thought it would be once they actually get a look at it. Most of the evening is spent trying to make out the creators handwriting, but it is solid progress nonetheless. After much interpreting they see the enchanted name signed near the bottom thusly " -ＲＡＮＤＯＶＵＳ / THE GREAT AND BEAUTIFUL"

Han: randovus instant fave character no lie Rokka: whoever this is i wanna fight them Plum: chip was it that the seller thought it was broken??? Chip: yeahp Plum: oh LOL Chip: zafar like what in the....not gonna ruin my day [puts on shelf] Plum: hHHHFHFG

Plum: "this guy's handwriting fucking sucks" Rokka: he makes a weird sound of agreement as he doesnt wanna admit it "mmmnnyyeeahmnn?????????" Plum: "anyways, that's all i got for you today re: this thing. might take me a couple days." plum says, without telling rokka what exactly they're intending to change about the box until it gets done. Rokka: he oohs and ahhh through the process of what plum does "neat! you got me excited now that I know i can probably hear it sooner!" his tails lazily wags in content and a little nostalgic spending time with plum like this in a room as they remind him of his siblings Plum: "yeah, i'm pretty excited too. and its fun working on something for...fun. i feel like its been forever, even though its only been like, a week. feel free to tune in next time." Rokka: "yeah! i getchaaa especially with what we've been through having some time to just enjoy like this is nice hehe" he tilts his head at plum "really?? then please let me know whenever you choose to work on it! I will be there to watch and cheer asap! thanks for letting me watch plum " Plum: "any time. i can make it a little task while we wait for the ball and all of that." Rokka: he stares at plum for a moment seeming to ponder something "plum, you're really nice. I like you, can we be friends?" he says without his usual loud and cheery tone. this time being more calm as he asks genuinely for the first time Plum: "h-huh?" plum says after a beat, suddenly turning fully red in the face. "man, rokka, why do you sound so serious... and! a-anyways! i thought we were already friends?" Rokka: "I just never-- wait what???i---" he struggles with finding words to respond as he didn't think plum thought they were friends "you.....we're friends? really? really really friends?" he looks expectantly down at plum Plum: "oh i mean i just assumed since we get along and we're stuck in this large group for now. maybe i jumped the gun there, sorry. but yeah we can be friends." plum says and scratches at their face, feeling embarrassed. "you're making me feel kinda embarrassed over here, saying "i like you" to people so bluntly, y'know." Rokka: he lets out a small gleeful laugh with a smile growing larger each second "ah...ahah!! yess!!!!!!!!" he ruffles plums hair "Sorry, I just like to be honest, hehe," now in a very great mood he cant help his wagging tail Plum: [is ruffled] "no it's fine, just caught me by surprise. i like to be blunt too 🤨 " plum says and coughs a little awkwardly. Rokka: he just grins at plum before plopping onto his bed with a content sigh followed by a mumble "my first friend.."

As the afternoon ebbs on Cimmoro also finishes attuning to his new healing knife in his room, the other two going about their business in silence and settling in. Finally he moves and stretches, and gives the knife a stare, he decides to give it a whirl and to check whether he’s been scammed or not. He tightly gripes the blade with one hand and makes a swift cut on his hand, he makes a low hissing sound as he does, alerting the other two briefly as they spot his hand bleeding for a couple of seconds

Han: han just stares like 🤨 Keva: keva was feeding amos the little snack thing she bought from the pet store, but when she hears cimm hiss, she looks over her shoulder. when she sees the blood and the knife she jumps a bit in surprise like "what the fuck?"

However, despite how quickly he made the wound, once he expends the charge, it heals just as quickly, glowing slightly for a brief moment as the skin stitches itself back together, like there was nothing there in the first place. They watch even as the blood quickly rises through the air and zooms back into his body from the wound.

Han: she stares at the immediately closing wound "that..what?" Keva: she's also staring in confusion and curiosity Cimmorro: he watches the wound heal itself, wonder in his eyes and then immediately puts his palm up for han and keva to see it stitch up like ":D SICK...!!" Han: "is magic? thats cool" she pokes the part where he sliced himself Cimmorro: he breathes out in relief "wuhahhu... looks like i got my money's worth..." when han pokes at his palm he goes like "yeah! you wanna try?" Han: "fuck yeah!" han holds out her forearm excitedly >:D Cimmorro: "it only works when i do it though" he's taken aback by your enthusiasm but likes it regardless. cimm swipes the blade on your arm, making a clean cut [will use charge] Keva: she makes a 🤨 face at han's enthusiasm and closes up the jar of treats to put it away as she says "no thanks" .... she does turn back to watch tho

Cimmorro slices again this time on Han’s arm.....blood...a second...thwoosh the body stitches itself back together immediatley and the wound is healed.

Cimmorro: "aw cmon we can do it one more time" once han's wounds begin stitching too he looks back at keva like "see? see?" Han: "oooh.." han goes over the wound with her hand "its only a bit tingly... wanna try it over actual wound?" Cimmorro: he turns to han looking confused for a sec like "... wait are you injured?" Han: "no, but keva can stab me" :D “or you stab with the knife normally. i just trust keva to make it count” 😌 Keva: "you're really excited about being stabbed" Cimmorro: cimm is wondering why han wants to hurt so badly rn and his mouth is just agape Han: "wounds are an honour" Cimmorro: "what... well, i guess?" Han: "well, more in battle than in here but still" Keva: "is that why you tend to go into things without thinking" Han: "without think-?! i think a lot, thank you !!!!" han sounds offended Keva: keva makes geralt from netflix "hm" noise "kay well, i'm not stabbing you so" Han: han pouts "your loss" then goes back to looking at cimm expectantly with her forearm to him Cimmorro: "okay, ladies.... let's...." he sighs "this dagger can do as much damage as it can heal, supposedly... so... to test?" he looks like he doesnt want to tho Han: "to test!" >:) Keva: "we already know it works. why do we have to do this" Cimmorro: "just to be sure!" Han: "to test!" han repeats Cimmorro: "you're not going to hold this against me are you? if i stab you like real stab?" cimm is starting to wonder if this is a good idea Keva: keva puts her hand to her face Cimmorro: he makes a fake stab against the air right now just to make sure han knows what she's asking him to do "like this, stab stab" Han: "huh?? why would i?? plenty of family have stabbed me, just do it" she doesn’t flinch Cimmorro: he completely sputters at that "do-what tthe ?!? the HUH?" Keva: keva's slient for a moment in shock as well and then "...gods you're so weird" Han: han tsks impatiently "i can do it myself, yeesh" takes out her own dagger Cimmorro: "no, WHAT? STOP" Keva: "(medieval fantasy equialvent of jesus christ)"

Han makes a clean slice along her forearm without flinching, taking damage, much to the displeasure of her two roomates.

Han: the dagger looks similar to the hammer shes taken out before, one solid chunk of blueish metal Keva: she winces watching it happen and is like, getting up off her bed Han: "nnnow try it" :) Cimmorro: cimm looks horrified not bc of the wound but bc of han just being so.... han. he clicks his tongue while he makes a weary slice on her already open wound, expending a charge

With a glow the wound stitches together again and the blood zips back in, the wound is not fully healed but it looks alot less bad now, closer to a papercut but long across the arm.

Han: "ooooo~" Cimmorro: cimm lets out a sigh of frustration and keeps han's arm in place while he grabs his holy symbol to cast cure wounds on the leftover cut :( Han: han lets him but is like :/ Cimmorro: cimm lightly blows and pats on her arm as if to check if he missed a spot then lets her go once cleared out. "this thing is more for emergencies, it looks like" tilting the doctor's blade a bit with his free hand Han: han wiwis for a sec Keva: keva relaxes back onto her bed once the wound is healed Cimmorro: "since we'll be travelling together for a while it's good to let you guys know what this does, though i won't use it unless i really have to... i don't like relying on things aside from what i already know anyway..." he puts it away and then looks at han like :| "no more stabbing yourself like that" Han: han goes 😤 "this was for teeeest!" Cimmorro: cimm remembers how han also just nonchalantly sliced her arm in the blood chamber and he rubs at his eyes at the memory "you do this kind of thing so often!! what the hell was that about your family!! uggh" he just keeps rubbing his eyes rn trying not to think of what he was to deal with the next coming weeks Han: han just goes 😟 but says nothing Keva: keva notices the look on han's face and says "anyway." Cimmorro: cimm stares at her and sighs and shakes his head Han: han gets weirdly shy under the attention Cimmorro: "no more hurting yourself. if that's what your family liked to do then whatever. but don't do it around me.. don't like seeing it" he says that rather harshly but there is a hint of concern Keva: keva like a sibling looking out the car window while the other kid gets chewed out Han: han is still like 😟 "no its.. they didnt.. uagh" she looks frustrated by both not wanting to talk about it and not knowing how to explain it, and just drops the thread entirely , pacifying cimm with a non commital "i wont, i wont" Keva: keva just quickly raises and lowers her eyebrows, thinking well that sounds convincing in her head Cimmorro: cimm doesn't seem convinced, but it's not like he expected his words to do anything immediately. he exhales and waves his hand around to clear the air "well... anyway. you two know what this does. don't go stabbing me back when i bring you conscious with this pls..🙄 " Keva: keva waves a hand like yeah yeah Han: han snort laughs a bit and also agrees Cimmorro: he shrugs as if to say he's just trying to make precautionary measures "nice. well okay you are cuties dismissed 👏" he hops off his bed and walks out the door peace out

Cimmorro scurries about preparing things for later on, and as sundown and evening comes the rest of the party settle into their rooms and comforts for the night. Han however, after a bit more pestering of Cimmorro, heads out after clocking off her shift, and walks off towards a familiar destination in the city.

She weaves her way in and out of a few alleys and streets in the business district before entering one of the taller buildings nearby. Despite there having been no rain recently she also spies puddles of water near the outside of the building. Shrugging it off, she heads inside and up a few flights of stairs down some interior hallways, past the doors of a couple other businesses

it’s pretty quiet in the area compared to when she’d usually come around, with the sounds of people revel making and drinking typically filling her ears. She quickly comes to the entrance of the place she’s looking for, the words ‘The Bone Pit’ scrawled nested into a carefully illustrated poster nailed to the front of the door.

youtube

> 🎵 Through the Valley / Pyre OST

She opens the door and steps inside, finding herself in a small lobby area of sorts, connected to a larger room that appears to be a bar floor with hallways leading upstairs branching off it. Though looking about it appears pretty empty and quiet, not silent however, some chatter here and there and the sounds of things being moved echo through the place. As she stares about it appears pretty sparse, its then that she notices a whole bunch of cleaning supplies stacked around the place.

Han: she just says loudly "hellooooo?? ruel? stella?"

As Han yodels out the names, someone shuffling around the larger bar floor seems to notice and comes running over, she recognises the woman as Stella, a short pink haired girl.

Stella: “ahh sorry there!!” she gives a cutesy wave “were closed right now for -er” she blinks now seemingly recognising you “oh my gods haaaaaaan, i'm being forced to do manual labouuuur- save me pleaaase” her tone changes to an uncharacteristically whiny one as she dramatically walks over pouting and shaking a mop that she’s holding in her hands.

Looking at her Han notes she’s not in what her typically style, instead in clothes that appear to be much more shabby, probably for cleaning. Behind her she also spots a taller person, whom she recognises as Ruel, a half orc woman leaning herself against a broom

Ruel: “...stella that’s like the 5th walk in, did you even put the closed sign out front..?” shaking her head as if she doesn't even expect an answer from the former. Han: han laughs at stella "you are such a baby." she notes their dress and says "cleaning day? do u want extra hands?" Stella: she lazily throws her head back with a groan “auuugh because of the lockdown the other day the good big boss decided this would be the perfect time to scrub down the whole place” she holds the mop out in front of her “this isnt in my job description y'know, i'm going to have to get my nails redone and everything after this, its tough work looking this perfect” she continues huffing a little before actually realising you asked a question "ah? oh no way we cant make customers help out, bad look..." Ruel: while she chats ruel crouches near the floor fiercely inspecting a stain in the wood near a bar table Han: "with the amounts of fluids this place sees daily i cant believe it took you this long to do deep clean....." han grimaces a bit but its still finds stellas baby attitude funny so it gets a bit lost. "and what? there are no customers around, no one sees me here. i asked a couple hours off." Stella: "ehh well it gets cleaned regularly but i guess she really wants these bar floors finally annihilated" she grimaces at the comment before looking back at you "y.........eaaaaaah but if i got caught doing that i'd get an earful is the thing" she waves her hand noncommittally though she looks like she is internally fighting off the temptation to just let you Han: han is just holding back laughter at stella like ppfftt "im sure you can do it, youre big girl" and then walks over to ruel and opens her arms for a hug Stella: she groans again and shakes the mop menacingly at you Celebrity Guest Aqua: is this like those clubs where they gotta hose the floor every morning or is it a nicer establishment Han:

Cimmorro: hate that gif so much dawg Chip: STOPPPPP Han: I AHTE THIS GIF TOO IT PLAGUES ME Plum: what is that fucking gif lord

As Han walks over to Ruel with outstretched arms she stands up curiously staring at her with a quirked brow.

Han: "i know ure off work but one hug pleeeaaase" >_< Ruel: she stares at you again but eventually sighs and opens her arms out invitingly like 😓 Han: "Oh! i actually came over to ask. me and some ..." han makes some grimacing/thoughtful expressions "friendsss?? like saved the town or whatever and they invited us to be guests at the new ball, do you guys wanna come??" :3 Ruel: ruel just ?? confused face at the question after the hug Stella: she turns her head towards you leaning on the mop completely disbelieving "if you ya want to invite me to a party han you dont need to lie about how cool it is" she says wrly Han: she probably has let go of ruel at this point lolol "no we talked to the king and shit.." han shrugs "its in 2 week, cimm, that priest guy, i dont think i told you about him, he even drew me a dress!" she starts looking around her bag "oh i must've left it with him... well anyway!" han is still in a chipper mood "you guys and the swallows perch are my only friends around so i thought i would invite you" she does get pink at this lol Ruel: she makes a face like 😑❓ silently thinking to herself Stella: she walks over and slaps her hand across your stomach jokingly "yeah and what did the king tell you?" she seems to be a little embarrassed about the only friends statement but is way to distracted by the ridiculousness of the gala thing Han: "uuhhh he was like [han tries to imitate his voice] thank you so much, here is 5000 gold, we are doing ball in 2 weeks, invite your friends. i have the gold to prove it" han opens her heavy ass stash and shows the girls the coin

Stella looks like shes about to crack another joke until Han opens up the bag, after which both her and Ruel open their eyes wide in surprise. Stella looks back between Han and the bag multiple times in shock

Stella: "th... first of all this is like, all platinum han, and second......i...." she stops mid sentence like she doesnt know what to say out of shock Ruel: she pipes up after "........you know they did say they were gonna rehost it...." Stella: at this she seems to snap out of her awe and stares up at han grabbing your giant arm and shaking you "HAAAAAN. YOU CANT BE SERIOUS THE GALA??? LIKE WITH THE ROYALTY AND EVERYTHING??? Han: she gets shaken around "yes, those guys, i dont rlly understand the big deal, ferrie chris was also excited about them?" Stella: "YESSS HAN THOSE GUYSSS" she seems to calm down a little though still gripping your arm "okay okay well im not gonna shoot for the moon or anything so i dont care too much about them but do you know how many rich nobles go to those parties.... the connections i can make there..." she then begins shaking your arm again "and i can brag about having BEEN to the palace my gods what am i gonna wear... i need to create the perfect ensemble, andrella is NOT gonna hear the end of this from me" Han: she laughs "i thought you might like it." she turns to ruel "how about you?" Ruel: as you turn your attention to ruel stella continues babbling to herself while shaking your arm, ruel stands nearby with her arms crossed thinking over it thoughtfully "honestly i am not sure i'd be good schmoozing somewhere so high class but" and she lifts her eyes up seriously with a glint and a thumb on her chin "the opportunity. is way too good." Keva: the egirls looking to get paaaaiiidd yeeeessss Chip: stella getting ready to have 100 business cards made Keva: are they bedazzled Chip: gel pen as well Keva: the other side is sequins that if you run your hand over it it reveals other colors and a message lmao Han: wait thats genius Keva: "stella" one way, "see the stars" the other Han: UA;LHDSGKH;KHWKH3LKESGKDX

Han: she just heehees "i went dress shopping with cimm today, hes gonna help get something tailored, you want dresses too? i can pay" Ruel: her eyebrows go up "oh no no, we can get that done ourselves fine, you're already inviting us and everything" Stella: she nods next to you feverishly "han i love you oh so dearly, now even more so, but i have my pride" she lifts a fist "and its telling me to go all out on this look...." Ruel: she nods sagely agreeing with her Stella: she quickly relaxes to a more joking demeanour before continuing "i appreciate the thought though as ludicrous it is for you to offer you big lug, if this works out i wont even have to annoy you to give me free drinks" she says with a smile ^__^ Han: han giggles then stops abruptly "what!! you said you annoy me because i dont let you tie me up!!!" <- she is faux sad Stella: she lifts a finger "i can have multiple reasons to annoy you" Han: she tsks "im glad you two are alright tho 😊 when you think the deep clean will be done?" Stella: she slaps your arm with a laugh at that Ruel: she thinks a moment "judging by how powerful these wood stains are... i'd say another two days with the others helping out" she folds her arms with a smile looking back at you "i'll be sure to expect a visit now that you're rolling large..." she squints her eyes and tilts her head afterwards though thinking on it "...kind of dangerous carrying all that actually" Han: she snorts at the wood stains comment "i dont have a lot to use it on anyway but thieves would be stupid to go for me" puffs out her chest "i will visit... soon? i will be leaving soon after so yeah.." han think thonks Ruel: she laughs at the chest puffing Stella: at the last comment stella tilts her head "ohhh??...flying the coop? you gotta tell me when we can go out for drinks or something, i'll have to console poor ruel.." she mock wipes her eyes Ruel: she rolls hers and grabs a cloth, getting back to working away Han: she shrugs "dunno, got one other bossman now and he wants us to go to antessa..." han trails off thinking about routes and times "you can grab me whenever you have free day. OH ferrie chris wants have do a banger too..." Stella: "damn moving up in the big leagues of freelancing now, cross country" at the second comment her face lights up "ohhhhh yes! when you have a date let me know i'll free up the evening" she says with a >:) grin Han: han is jsut ^O^ heeho evening successful, STARTS BIDDING THEM ADIOS? "no sex, no cleaning, im useless here" pouts again

Han scuttles off back to the inn satisfied with having said her piece, making sure to tell Stella to stop slacking off as she goes. The party all spend the rest of the little of the evening left idling around and killing time before finally heading to rest and bedding down in the dark.

Notes

💎Cimmorro and 🔮Psalm attuned to their weapons of choice

🦇Finn upgraded his sword to a +1 weapon

🍺Plum got an evenings work in on the music box

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦👨‍👨‍👧‍👦 Most of the Party relocated to the Swallow’s Perch

#recaps #210124 #this one took a little longer than the usual to get out yahaha

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