Guild Ties Role-Play

[ATTN:  ALL]

TIME SKIP - 8 Days

Eight days have now passed for all characters.  What you would like to do with them largely depends on you, save for any traveling time periods that were already previously discussed.  Please keep those things in mind when you post your summary of what happens to your character(s) during these eight days.  Thank you!

Please note the following facts:

--The weather has been good: sunny with light clouds and warm weather

--If your time before the eight-long day travels should have ended and your destination is White Cross, your travels were delayed due to various circumstances (such as bandits, etc.) If you need assistance with this, contact the RPM or RPH

--If your destination was elsewhere and your travel period was less than eight days, feel free to reach your destination beforehand--however, you will need to summarize what you did during the days at your destination in decent detail.  

--Short posts that cover eight days of any character will not be appreciated by the RPM or the RPH

--If you have any inquiries regarding this time skip, ask the RPM or the RPH

- - - - - - - - - - - - -

Day Eight: White Cross Guild Hall

The Guild Hall is Empty. Deserted. Save for a ghost-like creature in armor, floating before the empty, quiet, and dark hall like a foreboding promise or warning. It will simply levitate there, hovering up and down, up and down. The hall's complete perimeter is surrounded by signs, signs that ask you to go to the nearby town, instead. It is known as Whitecker and although it is tiny, that is where the guild members currently reside.

There is no explanation for this strange, empty hall, nor is there any other explanation as to why the Guild members reside elsewhere, but the dark scorch marks upon the ground that surround the entirety of the Guild Hall speaks for itself. SHould one approach the ghostly figure, it will speak to you. (Please message Leah7 for a collab with the ghost).

The ghost appears as thus:

Zeddicus:

{ATTN: GROUP B, WHITE CROSS GUILD HALL}

The group journeyed in tow with the newly freed villagers; it was almost like a caravan. Each night they'd gather by the fire, with the villagers telling stories of their families, their homes- Offering to teach Ham and his guild mates skills or the tricks of their trades.

One such man they had freed, a fisherman, old and grey, with one eye having gone blind, glassy and glazed over. Another woman, a healer, elderly, crooked and bent; and in want of a few teeth. She'd been mute, but had offered her skills in patching up July and Claire with a few gestures none had so far been able to translate. Luckily, she'd been able to write, and tell the others which town she hailed from.

They reached Aer Town, the cradle of The White Cross, after a few broken wheels, bandits and tribulations. July had complained minimally about how stepping foot inside a church might have 'set her on fire', to which Ham had to explain it wasn't actually a church nor affiliated with religion in any way. She waved him off. Punctuating it with the singular word of 'fire' and nothing else.

Arriving at The White Cross guild hall, Ham noticed a few....peculiar details. The ground surrounding the building was scorched; a ring of ashen marks as if a fiery barrier had risen up around the hall. He, apparently, wasn't the only one to notice the peculiarity.

"Well shit." July summarized the bizarre nature of the scorch marks succinctly. Something was wrong, very wrong. She'd known White Cross to be a guild of spirits, exorcisms and the like. July had very limited knowledge of actual demons; though she herself was a fan of ghost stories and pulp rumors about demonic spirits and ghastly apparitions. But she knew about salt circles, and she knew fire was a recurring theme in most demonic endeavors. Hellfire and brimstone and all that.

She hopped down from her seat in the carriage, squinting at the building itself. The closer she approached she saw signs, and-

She stopped dead in her tracks, hearing the thud of her brother dismounting the cart. She heard his footsteps coming up to her side.

"Hey, Ham?"

"Yes?"

"You can see 'im too, right? I'm not losing it?" Her eyes did not leave the spectral being.

"Indeed, July, I can." Whatever it was, it didn't seem hostile. Just...resting there. Placidly, calmly. He knew White Cross dealt in spirits, perhaps this was some sort of guardian? That, or he was looking at a spirit that had driven them out of their own home. He approached the being, his stride smooth and confident.

"Greetings," He introduced. "I am Hamlet Napolitano, of Infinity Edge; what has happened to White Cross?"

July stood by and watched as Ham approached the...man? Ghost? Spirit? Hell if she knew. She was ready to hop in if it made any move of hostility towards her brother. She crossed her arms, her posture calm, drawled, eyeing the signs smattering the perimeter out of the corner of her eyes.

Whitecker? Why the hell was the entire guild in Whitecker? Whitecker was a speck of a town.

Her eyes went back towards her brother as she pondered what the hell could have happened here.

The armoured spirit, still having not pulled out its sword, now has stopped floating so aimlessly. Now, rather, it has lowered to the ground and rests more steady in its almost motionless levitation. When it speaks, the voice is decidedly male, though it also sounds otherworldly, ghostly as it echoes through the air and resonates upon the skin of those that hear it.

"Oh, my," Zedd spoke softly, "hello. I am...Zeddicus of White Cross.......I met four Napolitanos in my lifetime...and now, .....I meet two more... after my death. What an interesting turn of events; it is a pleasure...to meet you. Our Guild is currently taking safe haven from the marks you see upon the ground. At this time, the cause and purpose of the magic symbol is unknown. Please....remember....entry upon this territory is not advised."

July's eyes keenly focused on the ghostly man. Ghost, ghost was correct, yeah? He talked about 'lifetimes', and it wouldn't be beyond White Cross to have a ghost...spirit...person in their ranks. It sounded...tired, sluggish, in and out of focus. Perhaps the marks? And what did this being mean 'take safe haven from'? So it wasn't salt circles? She knew this was Ham's conversation, but she desperately wanted to pipe up and ask him about the 'four Napolitano's' he'd met. Wait- 'two'? She knew her and Ham looked alike, but she hadn't even introduced herself? How could this thing be sure? She might chalk it up to family resemblence if he didn't speak so...like that.

Ham was intrigued by the mans voice, odd, not of this world, obviously- and sluggish, beyond that. Perhaps something had been done to it? He was intrigued how he knew is sister was also a Napolitano, despite their family resemblence, his odd manner of speech gave him pause in that regard."A pleasure, Zeddicus. Might I ask why you remain here, and on a more personal note, who of my family line do you speak off when you talk of those you met 'in your lifetime'?"

A bit posher than she'd have asked it, but at least he asked.

Zedd chuckles, but his sounds are probably creepy to this fleshy lot. He doesn't care, though. He's used to all sorts of reactions, by now. It's a thing that he loves to see, but never comment on. "I am this Temple's Guardian. Our Guild Master....Ryushi....did ask me to go with him. However...it is my duty and solemn promise to keep our home...safe. I......have chosen to stay."

He looks over at the other party members, all moving in closer to stare, and he can also see a couple talking to each other in the back. They must be confused, but none of these faces are any that he recognizes. Still, these two are quite different than what he expected. He says, "I met your family....nine generations....past. Ortheyus, Anrava, Cornelliyus, and Sansier."

'Great, he knows of four of the worst people in our families history.' July hoped this guy didn't hold a grudge against them. The lot he mentioned were carved from some of the worst grain the Napolitano's had ever spat out. Not that, historically, her family had been known for their kindness and virtue but...shit. These were the evil cousins to the evil cousins.

He knew those names, as he was sure July did. "That's very noble of you, remaining here. If not hazardous to your health. If there is any assistance we can provide, we'd be happy to help you. As for my family, forgive me for pestering you, but how did you meet them? My family has branched in many directions but those four were..." Decorum failed him in describing the history of the mentioned relatives. "Scum, by any definition."

This time, Zedd laughs, his armour and floating form shaking from the amusement within the air. Although he doesn't mean it to, the laughter does sound a bit evil, "I stole from them. I stole so, so, so much from them.....that they held dear...they almost caught up with...me, but I got away with it..."

As he repeated the word "so," it was said slowly, accentuated with obvious and gleefull care. There was no regret in his tone, nor apology. He didn't offer one. He was going to answer the question about the man's offer to help, but now his thoughts were solely on his memories--pleasant ones, for a change. The topic at hand has been forgotten by the glowing spectre.

July couldn't help but respond to his statement and strange, otherworldly laughter with her own. She had to laugh at that, she had to. Ghost guy had jacked her asshole ancestors shit? That was priceless. That as hilarious. One hand now rested on her chin a catlike smile rested on her face. Was Ham gonna ask? He better, cuz otherwise she would

Ham couldn't help but give an airy rise of a chuckle in response. To the spirits laughter. It might have been unnerving to most- but he'd heard stranger cackles. "While I'm reluctant to say I admire you for theft, I can't help but applaud you for your choice in victims. But what, if I may ask, did you steal? Money, priceless paintings? Heirlooms?" He was as curious as he was sure his sister was.

Zeddicus now moved close to Ham, his blue-white bright light of a face now eerily close to Ham's as he attempted to whisper. His voice, although should have been a whisper and was spoken in a sing-song whisper, was not a whisper at all. It was full volume. "I stole...their trivoloties.....their heirlooms........their dragon egg....even their undergarments, in the dead of night....for laughs."

A few hours after leaving the fort Xiax could tell a few things. The first being that they where in a cart. It took awhile to process the sounds but he could hear the horses and the cart move. The second thing was followed quickly by the third. Xiax was surrounded by people, and he couldn't move...at all, not even his eyelids. There was utter panic, and a level of fear that no one could ever hope to describe. Eventually he had no choice but to sleep.

When he awoke again, he was staring up at the sky. There where people talking nearby but as much as he tried he couldn't manage to get his eyes closes or to turn his head. Eventually July threw a coat or something on him, and snapped at the people around her.

Later that day, after trying like crazy. He was finally able to start slowly to bend his fingers, his toes and even his eyes. They where able to take off the coat and ask him some questions. There was a solid bout of charades, in which he still couldn't give any great signal or talk. Ham had come to check on him, but didn't stay too long as July not so passively aggressively gave him a hard time. Xiax felt that July might have been a bit to harsh but he still lacked any real way to stop her from that. In a way it was impressive that July could be such a mother hawk without touching him.

By the time he had recovered enough motor control to actually move on the second day, he'd absolutely ruined any dignity or whatever heroic image he might have had with the freed hostages. Before going to bed, he'd been unable to communicate or let alone stop himself from shitting and then pissing himself. There was not going to be anyway to recover from that image being in anyone's head for sometime. In many ways this was almost worse than some of his other episodes he'd experienced in the past. The Nine had assured him that this was the best they could do for him, most of the alternatives had been death. Xiax still wasn't sure, but eventually he'd probably agree... just not right now.

July had been there most of the way, some of the others checked on him from time to time. He still wasn't able to form words yet, but he slowly was able to move on his own. When he'd asked for his pack by pointing at it, July had brought it over to him. Though the wickerpack was crushed, it wasn't really damaged that badly. Even as weak as he was, he was able to clumsily restore its basic shape without taking it apart. He was trying to repair the pack and his hands just refused to cooperate. Try as he might to fix his pack he was doing it more harm than good. By the time he'd dropped the spool of cordage for the fourth time he grew angry enough to punch the thing, which collapsed as he finally managed to form something close to the word 'damn it.' That's when Ham had come and tried to calm him down. At first July put up a little resistance at letting Xiax go with Ham alone, but Xiax could realize by the looks on the faces of the people they'd rescued that Ham was right. July however didn't protest when Xiax agreed to go with Ham, and had chosen to tag along.

Once they'd gotten away from that, Ham had eventually gotten to apologizing. Xiax had managed to form a few simple words, to object, but Ham didn't really seem to accept that. July had refrained from tearing into Ham, but not after a few snarky comments beforehand when they'd gotten out of earshot of the camp and before Ham had started to appologize. That was when Ham distracted Xiax with Yoga, it apparently helped Ham after using his powers. Unlike with July or Ilyana, Xiax didn't just know what Ham's power(s) where. He only remember what he'd seen and anything that Ham had explained but past that he couldn't remember anything more. Later when he'd asked the Nine about it, he'd learned it was some sort of time magic.

During the second night when the bandits had attacked, Xiax had little recourse but to hide in the cart while the rest of his guildmates fought. He'd tried his best to comfort those near him, but he wasn't sure he was very convincing. It was something of a surprise that Ham and the others hadn't taken any of them captive, instead they had all been killed. Xiax wasn't sure what the reasons behind that were but he was sure there must have been some. It just was hard to justify with the image he'd been holding of Infinity Edge, but he was sure that he just didn't have enough facts. Later before turning in, Xiax had asked.

July had explained 'If they had attacked a group that weren't us, that couldn't fight back. They would have killed them, or robbed them, or raped them, or sold them. They've probably done it before, too. If they'd surrendered, let down their swords and stopped fighting like cornered raccoons, done some begging for their lives, Ham would have spared them, tied them up, tried to find a 'kind' use for them. But they didn't. And they didn't deserve it, so good, I say. Bet plenty of people they killed begged too.'

It made a lot of sense when she put it like that. The whole thing could have gotten really tricky if any of them had been hiding magic and surprised them later. When he phrased that thought, July had gone on to clear up his doubts by agreeing and explaining that they had to do what was needed to protect the people they rescued. With the image of Infinity Edge maintained, Xiax was able to catch some much needed sleep.

When the third day had started, Xiax joined Ham for some early morning yoga. Ham commented that Xiax seemed to be improving, and it helped both of them start the day on a much better note even while he was still pretty bad at yoga in general. Xiax spent much of that day in the cart, painstakingly working on fixing his pack. Though it was frustrating, his hands at least seemed to be getting back to normal and he was able to restore it. He'd spent the time talking to many of the other normal people in the cart, learning this and that about them. A few of them had some difficulty accepting the fact that he'd actually been homeless a short while ago, while others became more friendly with him due to the camaraderie of their recent circumstances. By the time they reached the guild of Whitecross it was late afternoon and Xiax had finished repairing his things.

[OOC: I've still got to get with Leah about a collab, but no need to wait on me.]

Whitecker Town/Temporary White Cross guild base - 8AM~12PM

(ATTN : Open)

**Leaving open in case Nadleeh comes back before 1h ish**

They had been here for almost two full days, but in a way it was more effective to help the very small town at the same time. When he spoke to them about their problem, the small town gladly accepted to take them over. Even though it meant pretty much camping close to the village for some of them as the space was a bit restricted. Yesterday, Ryushi almost collapsed from exaustion of searching too much in the books about this symbol. It was driving him insane a bit. He found some interesting information of similar things but nothing quite like it.

This morning after waking up, he was already looking through more books they brought with them from their own library of spells and stuff. But some others had gone to check libraries of Aer Town and Nadleeh had gone to her church to look in their library. He grumbles and give out a ''UGHHhhhhh'' of frustration as he let himself fall back into his bed. The guild members insisted for him to have one of the free room the villagers told them they could take.

Eaden jumped on the bed and then walked on his stomach to then sit there. ''You should rest a little more.''

''I rested plenty, I'm just discouraged at this whole situation. And worried for Zedd. I know he insisted on holding up the fort, but I can't help, but be worried about him. What if the circle activate ? What will happen then ? ''

''For sure it is unsettling, but you need to remain calm, otherwise your ideas will be clouded.'' Eaden said.

''I know .... well I guess I'll go see how the others are going and go get some tea at the same time. '' He said while lifting off Eaden to sit donw and this one immediatly jumped on his shoulders.

He went to take a cup of tea in the other room and looked at his guild outside all sitting in circle and each checking books, coming back inside to pick up some more. There was a pile of seen and a pile of need to check. He decided to sit down and drink some more tea. It was calming his mind a bit. He felt a sudden movement on his shoulder and Eaden wasn't there anymore.

Coming back with what seemed to be a small bag of cookies, Eaden looked at Ryushi with puppy eyes.

With a small chuckle, Ryushi opens the bag of cookies for him and set them on the table for him to eat.

''You should eat as well Ryushi.'' Amelia said as she brought a portion from what they cooked at the campfire.

''Oh thank you, I was just thinking about what I should eat myself before I'd go back to more research.'' He said happily digging in.

''Glad I could be of help, I'll go back to the campfire in case someone would be seeking us.'' She said leaving with a smile.

Ryushi ate and went back to his research this time at the same table where he was drinking tea wondering when Nadleeh would be back. He hoped she found something better then their find so far.

Kaimele



Star Sound has been a flurry of action since they were approved to go Orea.  Lord Crye gets the best architect to build a grand hall.  He is allowing them to each have their own room and decorate it as they please.  Kaimele looks at the sizes of the bedrooms planned.  They are huge compared to what she has now.  She has already been overwhelmed with Lady Crye and the twins decorating her room here, she can only imagine what plans they have with a blank slate.  It took one shopping trip for her to realize that her tastes are much simpler than of the others.  They did not look down on her for it, but helped her to pick out tasteful items.


Because of this her first guild mission was put on hold.  It was quite profitable though since she was able to dance as Clementina again.  She has also brought Olivia into the guild hall.  Lord and Lady Crye both treated her quite well, complimenting her and Kaimele repeatedly.  Reese enjoyed her visit as well.


With Olivia’s blessing they went out on a date as well.  Kaimele even showed Reese around the family farm.  It was odd at first to show someone from a guild her homestead, but the feeling quickly went away.  Olivia even played her flute for them a little.

She finished up training with her fans and is sitting in the common area.  She looks up as a guest is shown in.  “Please wait here as I get Lord Crye for you.”  She overhears the servant telling a man.  She looks up and studies the guest.  He is a tall man with long black hair.  His face is scarred and one eye is closed.


~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jacobi



Jacobi steps off The Fetarrus and waves good bye to her Captain.  As he travels to the train station, he sees the Infinity Edge group.  He nods at Ilyana, who returns it with a wave.  He wonders if she knows of the quest that Mia gave him.

Traveling by train is never fun for Jacobi.  He’d rather walk, but he needs to hurry to Terrenia to get the information from Lord Crye.  Not only is it expensive, but the fellow passengers act weird around him.  Plus it is boring.  No bandits to beat up on.  He is not much of a reader.

There is one passenger who is catching Jacobi’s eye.  The passenger is sitting a few rows in front of him.  The passenger is acting overly skittish.  The passenger is covered up like they are trying to hide even though it is nice enough not to be.  In addition, he is looking over his shoulder at Jacobi.  It is obvious the passenger recognizes him.  Slowly Jacobi gets up and walks down the aisle past the passenger, staring the whole time.  The passenger appears to be just a bit older than Jacobi with dark hair.  That is all Jacobi could tell because the passenger has a hood on.

Jacobi stops at the end of the aisle and turns around.  He begins to walk back slowly, eye glued to the passenger.  He walks past, stops, goes back and sits next to the passenger.  “Nice trip we are having.  I noticed you were checking me out earlier.  Don’t get your hopes up, I am not available.”

The passenger pales when Jacobi sits next to him.  “Please, sir don’t hurt me…”  He brings his hand to his face and that is when Jacobi sees it.  The DA symbol on the guy’s wrist.

Jacobi smirks at the guy.  “Oh I won’t hurt you.  I just want to talk to you.  You are coming with me though.”  

It does not take much convincing to get the Conductor to make a short unscheduled stop.  Jacobi takes him and questions him.  He did have some information to help Jacobi on his search, however he was just an underling.  After he got the information he needs, he dropped the DA member off at the nearest jail.  One down…




He continues to Terrenia city on foot.  It put him behind a little, but he needed to clear him mind.  He looks around the city as he arrives.  Terrenia is a nice city.  He makes his way to the Crye estate where he knows houses the newly established guild.  Funny how they were not invited to the most recent meeting, but they let Nekron in.  He will be sure to bring it up.  He is brought to a room to wait for Lord Crye.  The room was empty except for one person who is studying him.

He puts his hand into his pocket, his fingers dancing on the key hidden therein.  He sees what is obviously the Star Sound tattoo on the lady’s arm.  He gets an idea and approaches her.

“Hello there young lady, how are you today?  I couldn’t help you checking me out.” He sets his hands on his waist.

Kaimele shakes her head as finally recognizes the Valorian tattoo.  “Forgive me, I am new to the guild.  I have to say I am surprised to see someone from Valoria here.

“Now that does nothing for a man’s ego.  I was hoping you can be of some assistance to me.  I am going on a mission and need someone to keep something for me while I am on the mission.  I know we just met, but I think you will be the perfect candidate for the job.  So can I trust you?”

Kaimele raises her eyebrow.  “That is awfully strange, you don’t even know me yet you are asking me to watch something.”

“It is because I just met you.  It means others don’t know you either, and won’t know you have this.  Hold out your hands.”  Jacobi demands.  Kaimele felt a shiver go down her spine at the tone of his voice, but does as he asks.  He sets the key in her hands.  “Like I said no one knows you have this, but me.  Keep this with you at all time, but hidden.  If anyone asks about it play dumb.  DO NOT show this or talk about his to anyone.  Not Mia, or any of the other guildmasters, NO ONE.  I will come back for this, and you will return it to me.”

Kaimele’s hands are literally shaking, she does not why she is so scared.  This man is freaking her out.  “Keep this on me and don’t tell anyone, got it.”  She folds her hand and places it into her pocket.  The faster this man leaves the better.

As if the Gods heard her, the servant comes in and tell Jacobi that Lord Crye is ready to see him.

Daisan

Daisan enjoyed his time with the unexpected guests.  The rest of the trip was uneventful, thankfully.  He had a lot of time to think, and while camping to write in his journal.  He has always been a detailed note taker, something that Miram and Rex loved.  Honestly he is surprised that the trip was so quiet, especially with the warning he got from Iasrite.

Finally he approaches the edges of the ruin.  He takes his crossbow off his back and arms it.  One never knows what is found at ruins.  His first impression is the same as any other ruins, beautiful and over grown.  Nature is trying her best to reclaim the ancient buildings.  As he approaches he sees smaller dome like buildings.  They are smaller, possibly dwellings.  There is a mist covering the ground giving it a creepy appearance.  Well creepy to most, he is used to this.

He walks by the dwellings seeing a larger dome in the center.  This must be a gathering area.  It is crumbled more than the other dwellings, but is still pretty much intact.  It too has vines covering it and leaf piles along the base.  There are three large arched entry ways.  They are taller than him and wide too.  He walks up to one of the arches and looks at the threshold.  The architecture of the structure is beautiful.  He would love to have a team here to explore it further, but now is happy to have this quiet time.  He wishes he had an artifact so he can see how the people lived so many years ago.

(ATTN: WHITE CROSS GUILD HALL)

A strange...noise, rose in Ham's throat, inaudible to those not in his vicinity. His posture did not change, and neither did his expression. But that...noise. It was high pitched wheeze, trying desperately to escape his lips. His chest shook slightly, but he did not falter. The noise grew louder, and Ham closed his eyes., turning his head down. His shoulders quivered slightly.

'No Ham, no, you're better than laughing at this,' The thought to himself, as that bizarre noise stuck in his throat rose in volume. He clamped his hand over his mouth as his upper body began to shake from trying to keep his laughter in. His raised his index finger as if to signal for Zedd to give him a moment as he desperately tried to maintain composure.

He heard Xiax, Xiax's voice- he wanted to muster a response but he knew the moment he opened his mouth he'd start wheezing like a donkey. Give him a second, a second and he'd be back there. Or, he supposed, he could send Claire- she had a way with calming people in a crisis- and the freedmen knew her better.

"Claire-" He eeked out, unsure if she was even able to hear him, trying to straighten himself. "Would you please?"

July, however, had no such qualms; letting out a laugh as wicked and amused as any had heard. He'd panty raided her great great- however many greats- grandparents! And taken their heirlooms, their triviolities and their-

Wait.

Hold on.

"Did you say dragons egg!" July leapt, literally and figuratively into the conversation, using her brothers trembling body for leverage as she leaned her elbow on his shoulder. As soon as she jumped on him, however, it forced him to let out a laugh. A full, deep rumbling laugh that he tried to stifle. "Shit, sorry- Manners, name's July. Nice to meet'cha!" She stuck out her hand towards him, wiggling her fingers invitingly, too engrossed in the ghosts prescence to pay much mind to anything behind her. Besides, her brother had it, or, Claire- they were both better with crisis' and calming people than she was, anyway.

"Hello, Juliette," Zedd says, "A pleasure...to meet you.  Yes.  I did say dragon egg.  I.....suppose that...it belongs...to you two.....now.  The egg is not...hatched."

As he wound down from his laughter he realized the conversation was becoming a bit...Odd. Though he supposed, seeing as how they were currently talking to what seemed to be a ghost or a spirit. A dragon's egg wasn't too far out of the realm of possibility for the day.

While the idea fascinated him, a true natural marvel- like Xiax has said, the villagers needed someone to calm them down. He looked at his sister, who was almost leaping out of her skin in excitement and shaking the ghosts hand. He was sure she could handle herself.

"You must excuse me Zeddicus, it seems the people we arrived with are experiencing some alarm." He gave a courteous nod, his eyes shifting to Xiax. "I'm sure you wouldn't mind remaining with my sister as I settled the group?"

Well, that was what he said verbally. What he meant was, 'Please remain with my sister so she doesn't do anything stupid like attempt to have sex with a ghost or charge into the guild hall just because the ghost told her she shouldn't.' Not to say Xiax would have any sway over his sister, but after the fort he might have more than Ham had.

Shit he was cold. Super cold. Shaking his hand was like playing handsy with an icicle. But it didn't deter July in the slightest. If anything she clamped onto his hand more eagerly than before.

Her free hand reached around to collapse the backside of Zedd's hand after the other finished shaking it. "July." She corrected him lightly, not mad but not wanting to be referred to that name if she didn't have to be. "Do you mind?" She gestured her head down slightly to his single, icy hand now held between hers; smile still on her face. She understood he might not enjoy being touched. "Today's a warm one and this is just...cool. In more ways than one, if you don't mind me saying."

"My apologies, Porthos pranked me," Zedd says after blowing some cold breath upon the girl to cool her down, "I walked....right into it.  He said....to call you Juliette when......he knew you'd hate....it."

Xiax glanced back over towards the ghost whom July was enthusiastically shaking hands with then back towards Ham. "Um,, yeah. Sure." he really wanted nothing more than to go with Ham and Claire but it seemed like he really had no choice in the end, Ham was the Leader after all. Ok, it's name is Zeddicious.... sounds too much like delicious, at least he's not an icecream. Xiax remembered when July introducing herself sparked recalling the Ghosts name. Raising his hand just a little Xiax waved briefly, "Xiax. July can have my handshake, it's nothing personal."

Ham made his way back to the group, surveying the owl eyed crowd nervously looking at the glowing spirit. He raised his hands placatingly.

"There is nothing to worry about," He said, his voice calm, smooth. "He is a friend, a member of White Cross, Zeddicus. He explained to me what happened here, and where White Cross has moved to in light of recent events."

He heard murmers ebb throughout the crowd, and awaited their surely numerous and curious questions.

July's smile closed to cover her teeth from the icy wind. She wasn't used to cold weather, not to say she didn't enjoy it- and this was like a chilly, Hollstien winter breeze. Her smile widened once more as she kept Zedd's hand between hers, still. "Who's Porthos, how does he even know about my name?" Her questions were about to spill out when she finally acknowledged Xiax's presence behind her. "Ah- yeah, that's Xiax. He's my friend. Don't take it personal, touchings bad for his health."

Zeddicus nods his glowing head to Xiax at his entry, "Ah, a transfer mage.  A pleasure, Xiax.  Porthos says......you are the homeless man that used to smell ...of garbage.  He finds you much.....more appealing, now."

His next words are spoken with a ridiculous pace of slowness that almost seems to take forever, "Porthos is your great...great...great...great...great...great...great...great...grandfather.  You're...his favorite grandchild."

Xiax scrunched his face up in confusion, what is a transfer mage? And WHO is Porthos? The questions just kept piling up. Like this was shaping up to need lots of questions. Instead all he was able to manage was a lame, "That's a lot of Greats."

July's grin now looked to crack her face clean open. She looked to Xiax.

"Hey, it's cool- he's m- our 'homeless man that smells of garbage'. 'Besides, there are worse things you can smell like than garbage, anyway." She looked to him, then back at Zedd. "Never thought I'd hear that, though. 'Favorite grandchild'. Hey, Ham!" She careened her neck back to look at her brother who turned. "I'm a favorite!" The puzzled look on his face was humerous enough in itself, but he gave her a bewildered thumbs up nonetheless. She turned back to her spirit friend after giving him a little wave.

"But this...Porthos, grandpa, grandad? Dunno if he's okay with those titles. Is that how you knew me and Ham were Napolitano's? I'd say sibling similarity, but I am infinitely better looking." She squinted her eyes. "As for Dragons Egg, I thought those died out aeons ago, I'm sure it's just a rock now. But hey, a cool rock." She was suprised, she thought theft generally meant you now owned the item, for better or worse.

"Wait? He's your Super Great Grandfather?" Xiax said pointing to July, "I thought he meant mine. Now I am confused."

"Yes," Zed answers simply, "He follows you, somteimes.  He is here and....he told me.  As for your dragon egg....when you get to the town........ask Ryushi for his book.....on dragons...then, you can....ask me..for the egg."

July's face paled slightly, and her smile flickered. Sometimes? Did that mean her great great great gret great grandfather had watched her find booty calls in every town? Did that mean he was there every time she murdered someone? Did that mean he was there to witness the time she'd dragged Ham's mattress out to Chanda Lake on their birthday and waited for him to wake up and angrily swim to shore?

"How...on earth am I his favorite grandchild.." July muttered, face still slightly blanched. She pulled herself out of it quickly enough, however, looking to Xiax, sticking her tongue out impishly.

"Get your own cool, ghostly super grandad, scrub. He's apparently the only relative I've never let down. Well...I hope. But I thought if you stole something you were supposed to keep it? I thought that was kind of...the point." Though that did bring up a question in her mind- if Zedd could contact her dead relatives, could he contact Xiax's? Though, her family was known for being obnoxious enough that they wouldn't go quietly into the great beyond.

Xiax visibly relaxed and thought, Thank Gods that it turned out it wasn't his Great-great whatchamacallit great Grandgather. "He's all your's. Good luck." Raising his hands defensively at her teasing glad to have dodged that bullet. Glancing back over his shoulder he noticed that Ham and Claire were still talking down the crowd. This world just kept on getting weirder and weirder. First magic was bad enough, now there was ghosts, dead contract forming legion spirits and demons, and if he had just heard the Ghost right, their might be dragons too. Why couldn't everything just stay normal?

Zedd speaks softly, "Porthos says....you get your....everything....from his side of the family.....He was...an assassin of sorts, he...claims."

July looks like a child in a candy store, for the briefest of moments, looking between Xiax and Zedd with impish delight before a wave of suspicion crosses her face.

"An assassin? You mean to tell me somewhere in my long impossibly stuffy and drawn out bloodline there was an assassin? And he's a ghost and has been watching me knife people for ten years?" The entire idea sounded far more bizarre than her currently holding a ghosts hand or a dragon egg in her and Ham's name. "You sure he ain't Xiax's because that sounds a bit too ....good to be true."

Zedd simply shakes his head.

"Assassin Granddads, riding side saddle to all your knifings. Sounds like you've got it made July." Xiax tried for the dead pan response but his face betrayed him and he smirked anyway. "Gonna have to start charging royalties." He couldn't even keep himself from laughing a little.

"Fuck off." July responded flatly, her smile flattening to a line as she shot him a look. "But why do I have to get an owners manual before you can fork over the egg? Is the thing gonna hatch?" Her questions had a slight sarcastic tinge."Do I have to polish it, read it bedtime stories? Cuz if so, Xiax should read it too, I can't handle responsibility and I feel he'd make a decent nanny. Could get him a grandma apron and everything."

Now that wasn't fair. She could rag on him all she wanted, and he goes and jokes a little bit and boom, chipper and happy July goes away. So the dragon thing might actually not be a joke? "I don't care what color it is as long as it's fireproof." Xiax responded seriously, a bit worried at the implications of maybe raising a dragon. July was probably just trying to make another joke again, but the world did just keep getting more bat shit insane every time he turned around. I'll be lucky to hit 50 at this rate.

Xiax looked between the two of them when Zedd didn't respond. Ohh that had been a joke.... great move Dumbass, you even made the Ghost speechless. Good job. His cheeks colored a bit in embarrassment as he scratched his beard on his cheek. "Soooooo.... You said I'm a 'Transfer Mage?' or something?" Xiax said thinking of the first thing to repop into his head.

"Yes," Zedd says, "I know little of them....Only that they exist.  I can tell......if a mage is a transfer mage...sometimes."

"You ever hear anything about them July?" This was the first time he'd heard anyone call him something like that.

July eyed them as they conversed. She'd heard of transfer mages, read about that whole spiel in one of the books in her and Ham's library. Boring as shit, but she supposed it was coming in useful.

"Yeah, way I heard it's kinda what Ilyana does. Magic power is carried from one person or being to another, your power qualifies, as does most magic given from outside sources. Like a uh...Hm," She furrowed her eyebrow thinking of something to compare it to. "A battery is the most common metaphor you're used to, I feel. Though in plenty of cases it's symbiotic. Like a fish latching onto a bigger fish and eating all the stuff that might start growing on him. But that's not the best example." She shrugged. "Ham would probably know more about it, or at least be able to explain it better. He's wordy."

Well that certainly sounded kind of like how he described it sometimes. The fish part was a bit weird but the battery was easier to understand. Maybe he should ask Ham about it later. He looked at Zedd, "What makes you so sure?" kind of curious and worried.

"I can see it," Zedd says, "I am chained to the transfer realm....as are you.  I can...see your soul....and your body...at the same time."

"Wow, Xiax, you have a soul? You traitor." July looked bemusedly at Zedd as he spoke before shifting her gaze to her companion. "Now I'm all alone with my dead, soulless physical body. Forshame."

Xiax looked a bit confused by Zedd's answer. July joking kind of cleared up what he wanted to ask though. "You don't see bodies? Just souls?"

"I see souls of the dead and bodies of the living," Zedd explains, "....I don't usually......see both at the same time."

"Wait... did he just say I'm dead inside?" He looked at July first to make sure he heard right, then to Zedd to make sure. "You didn't did you?"

"I can relate," July said with a smirk. "But I think it might have to do with the nature of your magic? I mean, it makes sense in my opinion."

"You exist in the transfer realm," Zedd says blankly, "You are not dead."

Was this supposed to be a 'yay' moment? Xiax kind of wanted to explode and just scream that he was alive and had a soul, but what kind of sick irony would that be yelling it at a ghost? Instead he was just sort of defeated, it didn't really seem to make any sense. Maybe he could find answers later, but right now he just wanted to go have a breather. Xiax twitched a pointed finger back towards the carts. "I'm gonna go find a spot to process all this." He turned to walk away, noticed Gale, having completely forgotten that he was there. "So sorry. You wanted to talk to July? Sorry I butted in."  Xiax got out before excusing himself.


Xiax seemed...upset, though he didn't say anything about it. Just...escaped, found an exit and double timed out of the conversation- as Xiax was want to do. She sighed to herself, watching as he walked away, looking back to Zedd, finally releasing her grip on his hand.

"Sorry...he's....sensitive about it." She said, once he was out of earshot, turning to see who he was talking to.

She squinted. Gale, that's was the kids name, Gale. Moody one, but no moodier than Xiax was turning out to be. But at least Xiax didn't make pump fakes at those uncomfortable forced smiles.

Ham, after answering a volley of questions, looked up as he heard his name called. He recognized him- Gale, he was from Infinity Edge. But what was he doing here? He dislodged himself from the now calmer crowd and walked out to meet the boy.

"Greetings, Gale." Ham smiled, despite the boys rather uncomfortable imitation. "It's good to see you; what brings you all the way out to White Cross?" What's left of White Cross, at least.

Theo grabbed a sword and dagger before they left for White Cross with the people following behind them. He fortunately found the sheathes for both of them and held them casting away the sword that summoned him. The first day with the group of people they had saved was an interesting experience for Theo. He had talked with people before, but not this many nor who wanted teach him things. He often dealt with customers that wanted to buy something or orders from Infinity Edge.

The next day after that people had gotten used to talking with Theo, but he knew he would change back to Zero at some point. He closed his eyes, using some free time when they stopped to practice using his sword. Knowing how Zero would act when around people she didn't know, Theo started to talk with Zero. "How are you my dear? I thought I would check on you while I had the chance."

"I'm doing well, just waiting to take over. Was their something you wanted to talk about?"

"Yes their was, I wanted to let you know that we attacked a bandit fort and that we were on our way to the White Cross guild. We freed some people they had captured and that those people are traveling with us. In any case I thought it would be beneficial for you to know this before hand."

"Thank you Theo, I will try to prepare myself for what is to come.

"Your welcome Zero."

When Theo came back to the carts they started back on the road. Theo had gone a ways away so that no one would hear the conversation. While they were riding in the carts the change happened. Zero shook her head, she felt discombobulated. When she came to her sense a few seconds later she realized she was surrounded by people, she didn't know or remember. Panic began to rise within her. She tried to calm herself down by thinking back on what she did remember. All she could remember though was leaving her shop for some trip, traveling to a castle and... and that was it. She knew there was something else, something important that she was missing. The panic within her kept rising though, it didn't seem like it would stop. Until she remembered her conversation with Theo before hand. It helped knowing what was going on, but it didn't help with how shy she was.

For the rest of the journey Zero didn't speak, she would use gestures or write down what she wanted. When people asked why the change she would write out that it was her magic and also that she is very shy. Most of the time during the trip Zero would try and stay by herself, not doing much with the other people they saved.

They were attacked a few times and they wheels of their carts would break, but eventually they made it to White Cross. Zero's curiosity got the better of her and she peeked around the door. She had expected to hear a lot talking and people moving about, but peering inside seemed to lead only to an empty guild hall. With strange symbols on the ground. The thoughts of what could have possibly caused this ran through her mind. Seeing Xiax, Ham, and July talk with the ghost in the front of the building, Zero wondered what the things they were talking about meant. She wasn't paying full attention to what they were saying. So she didn't get everything, but it did seem to be a weird conversation.

{Collab between me and Jerri}


The days of travel went well, for the most part.  It took three to get to the small town of Ratigoen, but that was one less night to sleep on the ground out in the open.  The trees were sparse around here and the road overly visible for her liking.  However, Ratigoen, small as it may be, was lucky as ever.  The very night they rested there, the town was attacked by a raid of bandits.  Reiza spent the time eradicating each and every single one, tying them up and tossing them into the little cell together where they all barely fit.

She recommended not feeding them with humor, but secretly, she meant it.  There's no shame in a little punishment for their deeds, but they really can't afford to care after a bunch of constant prisoners, for as small as they are.  The town will need to think of itself, as well.  She was able to talk to some of the survivors of the fight (well, some did die, of course, but not all) and determine a location of their base--not too far from there, either.  Just a mere four hours away.  WIth that, she dragged Scarlet across the plains and into the hills away from view where they found a happy little bandit town to tear into.

It wasn't but a couple of days later that Reiza rode into the Tavran ruins with a look of contentment on her face.  She was...euphoric.  The fight had been good and the bandits even had a bit of magic on their side.  Taking down an entire bandit camp, even as weak as it had been, was wonderful.  The small numbers made up for the fact that they had to deal with a fire user and now, those bandits didn't have a home if they were released.  That would be up to Ratigoen, though.
The Tavran ruins are of a soft place--Reiza has been here before.  There are dome shaped buildings--most of which are small, with much of the walls decayed away.  Only the frames now remained on most or all of a lot of the buildings, especially on the ceilings.  Everything is overgrown by vines, bushes, and the like.  All the green with tall grass and old mildew building up at the base of these tall structures is peaceful.

The smaller domes were obviously homes--but the central, dome building--the largest.  It was the throne room.  And it was Reiza's favorite room.  She quietly points to that big dome and heads in that direction, hoping Elizabeth will follow.  The rumors of "strange happenings' was too vague of a description for their lovely little quest, so although this was her favorite place to be, she's on edge.  It's too risky to relax, even in such a comfortable place--but from here, everything looks the same.

Elizabeth grew quite bored during the trip, only able to read when they stopped for whatever reason. Whether it be to eat or to rest. She became quite sore after awhile of riding. Having not been used to riding horses. She was relived when they reached the town of Rotigoen, it meant a nice place to sleep and good food to eat. She could also rest for a while and read more of her books.

The only problem being that the town was attacked during the night. Elizabeth wasn't much of a fighter, but when it came to using the enemies attacks against them, she could do that. When she used her magic at least. Luckily for her Reiza seemed to be taking down most of them. Elizabeth tried not to use her magic, but in the end she did. Creating a portal in front of her to stab the air instead of her. While he was confused with what just happened, Elizabeth quickly side stepped around him to push him down onto his face, and sat on him. Trying to get his hands tied behind his back. Once she did that she had looked up to see that Reiza had gotten the rest of them.
Elizabeth let Reiza talk to the villagers on what to do with the prisoners they now had. From what she had overheard of them talking, there was a bandit camp not to far away from here. Reiza dragged her to where the bandit camp was. All the while Elizabeth was trying to flirt with Reiza for a few minutes. For when she used her magic, the deadly sin of lust had come out. Though Reiza paid it no mind and didn't care about it. Once that was over Elizabeth told Reiza that she was sorry for what she had been saying before. She didn't mean to make it awkward. Elizabeth let Reiza do most of the work, she cleaned up what was left with a dagger.

After that they went back to their journey. Elizabeth was yet again sore from riding a horse. She wondered what would happen to those bandits that were in Ratigoen. Once they reached the ruins Elizabeth looked around at what was the Tavran ruins. It seemed like a big place with many structures that were used for various purposes. Seeing that Reiza was heading for the main building Elizabeth followed suit. It would be better to stay in a group.

Gale sprinted toward his guildmate only stopping a yard short, dust trailed through the air.
  "Illyana's orders, I was sent to meet up with you guys. How is she doing? I was caught up in personal business when Dark Ascension attacked," Gale studied Ham's expression and tried his best to match it.

Ham did not flinch as Gale hurtled towards him, stopping a yard short. At Gale's words, Ham briefly pondered how Ilyana could have known they'd stop here- but he quickly dismissed his surprise. He'd learned long ago to not be skeptical of her keen foresight or intuition.

"Well, the timing was impeccable I must say. As for Ilyana, she is quite well, still recovering after the attack, but you know her, very little can keep her down- at least not for long." He smiled warmly at the boy, giving a friendly look, arms clasped loosely behind him.

'You don't have to bother Gale, I know you. You don't have to fake it.' Were words Ham wanted to say, but, for fear of embaressing him, he remained silent. If this is what Gale did to make himself feel less uncomfortable, he wouldn't call him out on it.

 "Good, good," Gale craned his neck past Ham, "JULY! How have you been!?"

Ham looked behind him, in the direction of his sister, who was still in the company of Xiax and Zeddicus; and also seemed to still be fully enamored with the spirit. He was unsurprised when she paid little notice to Gale.

"Forgive her, she is quite...mesmerized by a rather unique member of White Cross. A spirit, his name is Zeddicus; very friendly, despite a few odd mannerisms. Though, knowing July she could also be ignoring you to fuck with you. I can never tell." He looks back to the rest of his group, scattered each their own way. Though Zero was suspiciously missing. Ah, she was an A rank, he didn't need to babysit her. "Though, I must ask if you know of the rest of our group, Claire Lockhorst, an invaluable asset to our team, Zero, and our newest recruit, Xiax- the older gentleman by my sister. They'll give you their own introductions in due time I'm sure." He looked back behind Gale, raising an eyebrow. "And it seems you have your own traveling companion?" His smile was peppered surprised amusement. "Made a friend, have we?"

Gale's face twitched involuntarily. "Yes, he's a curse breaking expert from Rhodes. We've been getting along well. Which reminds me you didn't happen to hear anything while I was gone, did you?"

Ham took note of the face twitched, quirking an eyebrow in slight curiosity. "I have heard many things in your absence Gale, care to be more specific?"

Gale mused a moment. Ham was one of the few people who knew about his condition it, however, it didn't stop Gale from trying to not appear obsessive.
 "Did you find any dark wizards in Ascension with that made you think of my condition?"

Ah, so that's what this was about. Ham quirked his head ponderously for a moment, his gaze twitching upwards as he tried to remember. Mission reports, eyewitness accounts, his own experience....nothing.

He finally shook his head. "Not that I can recall. There might have been one, but it was rather hectic at the time, so if anyone saw something akin to that I doubt they brought it forward.

Gale was crestfallen, he was hoping the battle might have forced the wizard that cursed him out of hiding. He could feel a wetness on his skin. Gale snapped back. Side effects of his new magic.
  "Too bad, with the new magic I've learned I probably could've taken down a few dozen. Maybe gotten promoted," Gale bluffed.

Ham kept his exterior composure to a t, but internally he wanted to roll his eyes. With Gale, it was....difficult to tell if he was joking, or serious. Even after all the time had known him, it never got any easier. "Ah, I am sure you would have. Might have even beaten out me." He responded, amused. "Did Ilyana tell you what we've come to do? Or give you any further instructions?"

Gale stared blankly.
  "Can I level with you?"

Ham had stoped being bothered by Gale's trademark blank stares long ago, so the only expression he gave was one of curiosity. "Of course."

"I'm me. You and Illyana both know I as much a liability as an asset, so I assumed it's either so you can keep an eye on me, or because collateral damage is okay. So, you know, the usual.  I'm either here to help or stay out of the way."

Ham thought of their current group for a moment. It almost seemed like he was being set up with a bunch of liabilities. Sure, Ilyana, herself, had set herself off with Nymeria and Sylmeria; but this group was...special...in it's way. Xiax, the heroic human touchbomb, Zero, who had sat back and watched Claire almost die, and his sister, who was hopefully over her quest for revenge. He knew in Xiax's case, it wasn't his fault, and was in fact glad he had the oppertunity to take Xiax out on his first mission- the other two, however..

Ham reached out to place his hand on the shorter boys shoulder, grasping it comfortingly. "Gale, you're learning. There is no shame in that, you are not a 'liability' you are a guild member, and wherever your weaknesses lie, we shall fill the gaps. As your teammates, as well as your friends. You know me, Gale, I keep an eye on all my teammates, and I know you will be more of an asset than a liability."

 Gale could feel the wetness returning. He shrugged. "Anyway, best we catch up with the others. I gotta meet them too right?"

Ham patted him once more on the shoulder, smile on his face. "Of course, I-" As he started turning he heard screams and exclamations throughout the villagers, they were pointing- pointing at the guild hall.

His heard kicked into a panick- July, Xiax, were they- He saw Xiax, and he saw his sister too, looking- looking at-

'Shit.' The word blared in Ham's brain. He should have been keeping an eye on her- he should have known where she was. Zeddicus had asked- told them to stay out of the guild hall. There had been signs all around, why hadn't she read them? Why hadn't she listened? Ham released Gale, starting off towards Zero, fast as his legs could take him.

"Remain calm, please- Don't attack, no one attack." He halted for the briefest of moments, holding up his hand to the panicking freedmen, and to deliver a firm order to his guild mates. He looked back towards the hall, cursing once more in the privacy of his head, trying to remain level headed and calm at least on the exterior. At that, he blinked closer to the building, closer to Zero, or at least, her landing spot.

  Gale looked at the situation. Saw the ghost, and July. He could only assume the ghost was angry at his guildmates. Gale felt something bite his hand. He had to help Ham. Even if he didn't know how.

'Stay calm,' Ham had said. 'He's not dangerous!' HAM HAD SAID.

And she had been stupid enough to believe him! Sifa never considered herself a coward- but a red, raging ghost gave her an undeniable sense of panic.

Not to say blondie hadn't deserved it- She'd ignored all the signs, and the spirit bouncers words- and just waltzed right on in. She'd heard people say she was an A rank- how was someone this airheaded and careless and A rank!? Now she was going to get something thrown at her by a ghost and get injured and mother would never let her go outside again-

Still, despite her fear, she was pulling people back, behind the carts, in case any debris went flying. She saw Hamlet move forward, his back to them. Blink, he'd used his blink! She peeked up over the cart to watch as Iero, the fisherman, tried to pull her down.

"Get behind cover you idiot!" He hissed at her, yanking at her tunic sleeves. But she didn't care- this, this was something that you got to see once in a lifetime!

July was...taken aback, to say the least, by Zedd's sudden outburst. When she saw what caused it however, she was hardly surprised.

'That's what you get for trespassing in a guild hall. Hundred signs and a spirit telling you to stay the fuck out and you don't listen...' She watched calmly, perhaps a little too uncaringly as her guildmate was bitch slapped by a table. Well, a table wielding ghost. She was still a tad...miffed about the Claire situation, if she'd been hurtled through the air- it would have been different, she would have helped. But Zedd seemed to be more focused on getting her away from the building. Speaking of Zedd- damn, she thought she could get angry, Zedd was in a class all his own.

She heard cries from the crowd, and saw her brother advance on the situation, probably to pull Zero away- all those terrified little villagers...

She scowled, craning her neck to look at what she assumed was still her newfound 'friend'.

"Hey, Zedd, buddy- sorry bout her, and we'll be leavin' and all- but maybe tone down the floating furniture? You're puttin' all the good little villagers in a bit of a panic." She tried to at least get him to put the tables down, and she was hoping he could still be reasoned with, flying furniture was never a good sign, in her experience.

[Attn: Ilyana, Sylmeria, Ryuko]

Every chance Nymeria got to practice with Edel, she'd go off on her own with her "sibling" and go over the basics: running, jumping, and light sparring. She felt guilty leaving Sylmeria to Ilyana and Ryuko, but she was confident the two could keep Sylmeria safe and out of trouble, for the most part. Every session left Nymeria mentally winded for a brief moment. Running, especially was taxing on her mind. Every so often she and Edel both would have to stop running to prevent one from plowing straight into a tree. If any of the other members caught her practicing with Edel, she'd say she's just doing some aerobic exercise to keep fit for the mission. She didn't trust Ilyana would buy it so easily but she hoped the others weren't so dubious. With all the open space and group travelling, it was hard to avoid watchful eyes.

Throughout the trip, Nymeria figured Ilyana would tell them where they were going and why, yet she'd been silent about it the whole time. At this point, Nymeria stopped considering it. There was probably a reason Ilyana didn't tell them of their destination, but what were the chances Nymeria would find out? She spent most of the trip minding her own business, reading a novel if she wasn't training, riding, or napping. The train made things a little more comfortable, but the cramped space made for small room to practice. Nymeria opted to get in many hours of hours of napping that she missed before. Every now and then she'd inhabit both bodies as long as possible, just for the hell of it. Her longest record stood at 20 minutes. Whenever Edel was out of use, he would lie on Nymeria's bed with his eyes closed, as if he were in eternal slumber. Nymeria made sure her room door was closed at all times.

As the Terran Mountains drew closer, Nymeria's heart rate rose. She hoped to whatever god out there that they would go around the mountains, or take some path through it. What ever it was, it wouldn't involve climbing. Then she met the mountain people, spent the night resting in one of their huts, and received climbing gear the next day. Then she remembered her mere existence was a pile of horse manure on the gods' faces, and that they were deaf to her pleas and hers alone. This must be divine retribution, if nothing else.

Daisan

The peace that Daisan experiences is shortly shattered when he first heard, then spotted, two people enter the room.  They have not sensed him yet.  He observes them closely.  They appear to be two women, who appear to be each other’s opposites.  One is tall and blonde, the other short with black hair.  He does not recognize them from Sheherazade.  Isarite was insistent that he bring others.  Would he have sent them or are they bandits or thieves?  They do appear to be armed and wearing packs, but at the same time relaxed.  Have they been here before?  He stealthily lowers his crossbow and arms it.  He approaches them quietly, his crossbow pointing at the ground, but still ready at a moment’s notice.  “Hello ladies, may I ask what business you have at Tavran Ruins?”  His tone is friendly, for now.    




Kaimele



Kaimele watches the man as he leaves.  There is something about him that makes her feel uneasy at the very least.  There is a thought tickling her brain that makes her think she should know of him.  She suddenly wants to be alone and goes to her room.


~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jacobi



Jacobi follows the servant looking around slightly as he is lead to where Lord Crye is.  The decor reminds him of Quinn as it is very opulent.  The servant stops and knocks on the door.  Jacobi knows the procedure and waits to be announced.  He glares at the back of the servant’s head with his eye.  His arms are crossed.  “Lord Crye, long time no see.  It is about time you threw your hat in the guild arena.”

The door is opened, the lord looks up and gestures him in quickly.  Lord Crye grins from ear to ear, his arms opened up wide as he moves up to the man to clap his shoulders with a laugh and gesture of familiarity.  He had been alone, looming over paperwork with boredom and this--this--was a more than welcome break from all of it.  "Jacobi!  My old friend!   It's been....a long time.   How have you been?"

"Would y-you like a drink?"  The servant asks.

"Bring some of my finest ale, Brastus."  Lord Crye says immediately, "Heard about my Guild, did you?  I've gotten five members, including myself.  I'm rather proud of each of my fellows--would you like to meet them?  Oh, I can't wait to introduce you to them, you're going to love the--they are going to freak out when they learn who my war buddy is!"


“If they all look like the beauty I met in the common room, I will be happy too.  Unfortunately I am in a bit of a hurry.  I am on a mission and time is fleeting.”  Jacobi gives him a smirk.  “I am not one to turn down some ale though.  I heard through the guildvine that you were the ones who blew up the DA hall.  Great job!”

"One of them, yes," Crye replies with pride, puffing up his chest, "Still--I got three pretty ladies and one upstanding gentleman.  We're outnumbered--for now.  Ha!  Still, sure you don't want to stay a night?  Think about it, my friend--I can help you all you need and you probably need rest from your travels."

“Maybe I will think about it after our business is done.  We missed you at the last guildmasters meeting.  I thought for sure they would have invited you.  You missed a lot, but maybe it is for the better.  Anyway I was wondering if you guys did any recon before blowing up the DA guildhall?  My mission is to track down the stragglers, but I hope to find V.”

Crye scowls, "Nope.  Not really.  We went in, provided distraction and then just blew shit up.  Normally, recon would have been a way to go, but Aurella was way too pissed and she made the plans.  We were in and out so quick, it was unbelievable.  When that woman is mad, she's terrifying--which is saying a lot, considering she's primarily a diplomat.  Still, she's a battle strategist underneath all of those politics.  I'd never go to war against Quin, that's for damn sure."

“Isn’t that what politics is, granted without the fighting.  Damn, that means I am back to square one.  It was worth the trip though.”  Jacobi grumbles.  “Il is healing slowly, but she looked better at the meeting.  I never thought DA would go rogue.  I knew they were sort of shady and that is a lot coming from me.

"Yeah," Crye says, "Though I have been tracking a few...sources on whether or not I can find some of the remaining members that are grouped up.  Still waiting to hear back from them.   If you're willing to wait, I'd be happy to share what I find."

“If I didn’t know better, that sounds like an invitation.  Staying here may tarnish my reputation though.  They may thing I am going soft.”  Jacobi lets out a hearty laugh.  “Are you sure that your guild is ready for stories from the old days?”

"We gotta learn from somewhere, my friend--I can't be the only teacher these kids have."  Lord Crye says, "Besides.  Warm beds, alcohol, surrounded by a city filled with women?  Why would you dream of turning that down?"

“You don’t have to sell more to me.  Before you introduce me to the others, I do have a request.  Keep an eye on the raven-haired beauty for me.  I cannot tell you why, just consider it a personal favor.”  Jacobi answers.

"An eye on her?  Whatever for?"  Crye asks, genuinely curious.

Jacobi looks at him in the eye.  “Once again, I cannot tell you why.  If I could I would.  You know how I hate secrets.  So are any of your guild member up for a little sparring?”

Crye grins again, "I doubt they'd fare well, my friend.  You'd defeat them all within moments.  However, you're free to ask them.  We can have dinner tonight as a Guild and I'll introduce you then.  Until then, you and I can get you settled into a room.  How does that sound?"

“No need to be so formal, just point the way.  So how does Blazing Sword like you being on their turf?”  Jacobi asks.

"They don't," Crye replies, "We're establishing elsewhere.  This place is just temporary."

With that, Lord Crye leads the big man up to his room to let him get comfortable, as well as offers him a comfortable set of clothes, like he always does.  He has dinner prepared and invitations to the guild members sent--it's all done rather promptly after he shares a glass of strong mead with the man and chats about the "good old times."   The man is in good spirits.

Collab Between Leah-san and I


Attica scowls, "Well, first, we're gonna pick up a friend from Blazing Swords.  Then, we'll head to my hometown.  I know he'll be there.  He likes to return, sometimes.  Get people riled up, mess with their heads.  I know he's an S Rank, but I think us four together can take him down.  My inaction on him for this long is what has lead to Lady Tsundre's near-death experience, so...I'm not going to sit on the side lines any more.  I hope you understand."

An eyebrow arched, Yuzu casually leans forward with her elbows on the table and her fork sticking out of her mouth. She stares flatly as Attica goes on. Eventually she sits up, taking the utensil out, and pointing it. “You’re the boss, kid,” she says. “We make a quick stop to grab your buddy, then it’s off to kill us an S-Ranked Bastard. Sounds like a plan to me.”

Attica nodded, sitting quietly as she waited patiently for Zarkas to return.  He eventually came down the steps with his bags over a shoulder--three bags, apparently.  This guy had more on him than Attica carried for a week's worth of a trip.  She looked at him oddly, but didn't say a word, choosing instead to keep her hands firmly in her lap.  From there, they took their exits after a few brief farewells to the Guild Hall and then they travelled on via horses and a train.

It took a total of six days to get Gren from Blazing Swords.  She had the other two wait outside while she went in and fetched him.  The guy came out looking...well, frazzled, at best.  Still recovering from injuries.   They were talking to each other as they approached Zarkas and Yuzu, familiarity obvious between them as she held on to the man's sleeve.

"Woah, that's Gren," Zarkas says at a whisper while they are getting closer, "That teleporter.  Man, look at his scars....he's been through some shit.  That's an old motherfucker, right there."

Along the course of the six day journey, Yuzu dominantly kept to herself. When they were on horseback, she took up the front of the formation, with Zarkas at the back. If they were attacked from behind, he could block the path. If they were ambushed from the front or sides, Yuzu could blast their way through. A simple tactic, but effective, if her time with Quin proved anything. Amidst repeated attempts by the kid to speak to her, Yuzu was largely quiet. Responding as a lazy older sister might to an overly eager little sibling. Seldom more than grunts, and flat looks.

Getting on the train, Yuzu was decidedly uncomfortable. A small, metal tube, filled with people seems like the perfect place for a live bomb with a temper. But they finally arrive at their first destination - the Blazing Swords Guild Hall. As instructed, Yuzu waits outside, hands in her pockets. Soon the kid reemerges from the building, an old man in tow as she tugs him by the sleeve like a pet. Yuzu grimaces. “Teleporter, huh? Fantastic…” she says. She catches the sideways look he gives her before shrugging and approaching the pair. “Last experience with one of those wasn’t the best.”

As she reaches the two, she looks the man over. “So, you’re Gren,” she says in as flat a tone as ever. Her gaze falls on Attica. “Ya sure got the kid singin’ your praises. She tell you what this merry little band of misfits is doing?”

Zarkas smirks at Yuzu's comment regarding her last teleportation experience--he could relate, but has not personally experienced it.  Still, he found it a little amusinig, but was smart enough not to say anything as the two approached.   They got close enough to talk, but Yuzu was taking the lead on this one.  Excellent.  He simply waves at them as Attica smiles sweetly upon her return.

Gren grunts his confirmation with a bitter tone to Yuzu as he looks to Attica below him and says with his garbled, mangled voice that was badly damaged due to his facial scarring and inury of his past, "Introductions, Attica."

Attica sheepishly scratched her head, "Right.  This is Zarkas and this is Yuzu.  I don't know what Zarkas does, but Yuzu blows shi--stuff.  Stuff up.  Really good."

Zarkas nods his head, "Ice defense mage."

Yuzu glances down at the kid, then back to the old man. “Seems to keep her pretty well entertained,” she says. With a flick of the wrist she sparks up a small showing of fireworks in the palm of her hand. From there she shoves her hands back into her pockets. “All right, kid, we’ve picked up your friend. Onto step two, from here, right?”

Attica smiles, "Well, Gren wants to take us to the armory. After that, we can saddle up."

Gren nods, pointing towards a building at the side of the guild hall, "Quarter master, Fireworks."

Attica giggles at the nickname, but says nothing as they are guided to the building, but Gren flops out more garbled words, "You, too, Frostbite."

Yuzu stares flatly as the old man grunts at her and their tagalong. Her eye follows his hand to the armory, and she blinks at the building. “Fine. And it’s Yuzu, ‘Pops’…” she says, making her way inside with her hands in her pockets. Once inside, she casually looks around. She gives an impressed whistle. “Credit where it’s due. These guys sure have a lot of toys.”

Gren begins the process of getting Attica fitted for her armor, also offering both Zarkas and Yuzu the opportunity to be fitted, as well.  Additionaly, he offers each of them weapons and Attica happily already has her weapons of choice, so she doesn't have to worry about that one.  This process takes about an hour or so before they are able to walk out of the building with an armored little girl, who is poutinig about the weight.  She doesn't like the bracers on her arms at all, apparently, since it slows her arm movements.  She'll get used to it, though.

It is then that they mounted up and began to travel to Attica's hometown--a mere two day's travel from here.  It was up near the Hallows, Attica informed them, just far enough away from the great forest's edge.  A good thing, too, because that forest is dangerous beyond all imagination.  The trip is agonaizingly slow--for Attica, anyway.  She talks a lot, asking each of them questions which are generally only responded with grunts from Gren and shrugs from Zarkas.  Though, Zarkas did manage to ask Gren a few questions about the war--a topic the man didn't seem entirely eager to discuss.

Yuzu snickers at the obvious discomfort that’s befallen the kid, dismissively shrugging it off when she’s called on it. “You’ll thank everyone later, kid.” She forewent armor of her own. It didn’t mesh with her abilities or combat methods, being more of a hinderance than a benefit. She did, however, see to it that she walked out with a pouch filled with bullets. No gun, just bullets. Along the way she fiddled with one to keep herself occupied while pretending to pay attention to the kid’s chattiness. Accompanying that was her father’s hunting knife - a finely crafted tool from the days of her family’s higher societal standing.

Slow though the trip was, Yuzu kept mostly quiet, listening to the conversations of Zarkas and Grey, only speaking up when directly addressed. Her eye catches the man’s grimacing at every one of Zarkas’s war-based questions. “There will always be those who can’t take a hint,” she says to herself.

Upon the second day of travelling, Attica slows her horse to a stop just at the foot of a hill.  Her expression is all serious, now, her tone quiet.  She doesn't say a word, but there is no town visible around them--this mysterious hometown of hers doesn't seem to exist.  Zarkas didn't ask, as he was a bit chilled by the little girl's change in behavior, analyzing it quietly for himself.  He wasn't quite sure if she was okay or not.  Is this the place?  Will they be traveling more?

Gren moved a hand onto the young girls shoulder, comforting her without words as he gazed upon the small creature with a sadness in his old eyes.  What comes next is a small tear down her cheek as he jumbles out his usual butchery of their language, "You okay?"

Attica frowns, "Not today, but I will be.  We're almost there.  I...you and I know that I will be the bait.  What you three choose to do from there...we should discuss before moving forward.  We should plan.  Gren is most familiar with his abillities, so we should talk that over and then go from there. "

Gren says, "First we check and make sure he's there."

Attica scowls, "How will we do that unnoticed?"

"Recon," Gren says, pointing to himself.  He holds up two fingers, "Then plan."

Yuzu keeps an eye on the kid, all throughout the last leg of the trip. The shift in demeanor doesn’t go unnoticed, though she keeps her mouth shut. Everyone’s got things they don’t want to talk about, it seems. When they finally come to a stop to group, she’s the first to dismount. “Fine,” she says at the prospect of doing recon before throwing a plan together. Though her eye falls back on the kid. Bait, huh? Bold, but was that really wise? Not that it’d matter with someone like this. “I can go look around, too. Since I can read my surroundings, makes learning the landscape easier. It'll come in handy." With that, Yuzu turns to be on her way, hands in her pockets.