Aladora: An Elemental RP [O/A]

[Amiimii]

Tacita had been drug, against his will, into the rain by a very active and dancing Ebony. He, of course, did not partake in the dancing, as he was still dwelling on the fire elemental, but neither did he move from the rain. In truth, he was still attempting to figure out why he had intervened earlier, but he could find no reason. It also seemed that throughout the interactions of the last few minutes, three new figures had entered. Two of them seemed to be good friends, while the third knew somebody in the room. The rain paired with his naturally glazed eyes prevented him from seeing too much, though the air was clear in the building. Once again, the fire elemental had intervened, spouting bullshit. The first time, Tacita had prevented such words from entering the building, but apparently she was insistent on her ideals and nobody else'.

Tacita remained silent for a few moments before he decided to clear the misconception Ebony had. "She is not talking about death, she is talking about being murdered for no other reason that being a human being. There is a difference. In this journey, our deaths will not mean to live." He could only hope that she understood his words, as he had lost his ability to clearly focus and describe things the moment he let himself become angered by the ignorant woman. He turned and walked towards a seat positioned in the front and took it, choosing to let his seemingly unnatural arms fall to his side as he stared ahead and awaited the arrival of the elders. Despite all that had transpired, Tacita still could not help but find himself interested in Dezra.

Cici, on the other hand, was grateful for the rain. It helped to cool the place down, though it would become a problem for her armor. That was always something she could fix, anyway. But, she did not care for the other fire elemental, the one whom had been named Masao's, words. She looked at him for a moment after Dezra had walked away, and spoke before she could realize what she had said.

"Why are you sugar coating it after you just said you would not? I'm not stupid-I am no more than a meat shield for this journey. I never said I had neither the skill, nor the strength, nor the wit. First you all seem like this is the most dangerous thing in the world, and now you're telling me that I'll be fine if I'm strong? If you can't accept death, than you shouldn't face it."

For a moment, she was confident, until she realized she had said it all out loud. Luckily for her, it seemed the fire elemental Masao had already turned his attention elsewhere. She wasn't sure if he had heard her or not, but she could pray he would forget if he had. Or ignore her. It didn't matter which. It hadn't even been half a day, and she had managed to draw the ire of at least one elemental, if not three. Luckily, it didn't seem like the large man who had intervened earlier cared much for her, so she could rest her mind easy of that.

Even as she saw Dezra practically assault the water elemental whom had conjured the rain though, she could not help but dislike her. She would be the reason people died if she were not careful.

SillyMissMilly

Sin and Sacrifice

TheMeg00

[Beatus Sine Nomine]

As a plume of smoke rising in the light...

''Well then, you'll have to introduce me to he some time. It's been too long since I've been in such good company.'' Celethelel smiled, meaning every bit of what he'd said. It'd been far too long since he'd met someone who was such an offbeat sort of interesting. He'd been about to respond to her second comment as well, but before the girl could even finish the statement it seemed one of the fire elementals was already over here, and a good deal pissed off at that. Celethelel recalled she'd been on the previous trip from what had been said, so perhaps she was understandably angry with them. However, this was Celethelel. A man who'd never been truly upset a day in his life, and was perhaps physically incapable of such a feat. And right now he would not stand by and let anger take control of a situation, even if he was wrong to intervene.

"Excuse me," the air elemental spoke evenly as he moved between the two women. "But you're hurting her. If you would rather not join us it is understandable, but this young lady is your capable equal and deserves to be respected as such." he stated, directing the water elemental a few steps back from the fire elemental before inspecting the burn on her arm. "Here, let's try this." with a small motion he conjured up a handheld whirlwind and lowered it to the water, allowing it to take some of the liquid in before sending it to swirl around the burned arm harmessly. That tended to, the air elemental stood relaxed, but ready to diffuse any further confrontation. He was well versed in defending himself and others, and unafraid of whatever might be thrown his way. Of couse, his extreme objectivity and refusal to do anything other than deflect any physical contact tended to make those aggitated even more frustrated (something he never understood one bit), but that had never stopped him once he'd set his mind to it.



[OOC:Gonna be on mobile for a while, laptop is at home while I'm on vacation hence why things may seem a bit shorter. ]

"SillyMissMilly"

"TheMeg00"

...Attempt to capture me and I'm nowhere in sight.

[Eurynomoz]

Gerik Ahlgren

He had been wholly content to soak and cool off the rising heat that created a pressure behind his eyes; the on set of headache and general nausea brought on by copious drinks preceding his arrival. That moment's peace was perturbed briefly by Ebony's targeted bump, to which he mumbled something incoherently. Still, a lop-sided grin reappeared as he observed her dancing. This, too, was interrupted as the girl was taken by the arm. His expression darkened somewhat--and darkened more as he reckoned the assailant. Another woman, therefor making him powerless to physically intercede. Truly, if interceding was to be done, Gerik preferred that it be physical.

Instead he cleared his throat, about to speak up with strong, and almost certainly profane, words to encourage Dezra's relent. However, another man had taken up the role with florid, though arguably less convincing, prose. Yet other words caught his ear; ones that deserved some attention and riposte. And so, with awkward footing and circling to build distance from the group before him, Gerik turned to better address the warrior. First he raked back his soaked hair, pushed up his bandanna somewhat so as to keep it from slipping over his eyes, and then gestured towards Cici.

"What is this? Meat shield," he began, a gruff, hearty voice that nonetheless enunciated clearly. "If we're only to be fodder--thrown against any beast or man who stands in our way--then any fool with blade and board would suffice." Sidetracking briefly, he murmured, "Or...a great many fools," before cutting back in with full volume, "Surely we were chosen for our skills, our discernment. Experience. Burnable assets, we are not." Gerik's wide, lop-sided grin returned as he raised a clenched fist, "I, for one, can not wait for the challenge."

[OrigamiCubes]

Clay sat alone, listening to the drip of water that was forming stalactites on the roof of his cave. The sound was refreshing but it did not mask the panic that the man could feel building in his chest. Today was the day he had to meet the elders. He had been selected as one of the earth elementals to go on a quest? He didn't know, he couldn't focus properly. He was worried about the people, all of the people, how many had the letter said? He looked around at the rough hewn shelves and tables that decorated his house. He couldn't see the letter. He sighed and drew in a shaky breath. It would be okay, there the same as you. He breathed in again deeply and held his breath warding off the panic attack. Now you listen here Clay, these people will be nice, you can explain to the elders how you are glad they picked you but they will have to pick someone else because you want to be content in your cave he felt better already just thinking of his plan. The problem was confronting the elders to speak it. He shook his head, he was in a jam for sure"

The air was crisp as Clay walked towards Narran, it had been many a full moon since his last trip here and he had not stayed long, the clutter and busy lifestyle that accompanied city life did not agree with him. Clay preferred the solitude of nature, hunting for his food or foraging, bathing in waterfalls, there was nothing more refreshing that feeling the cold brisk flow of water running over your body. Clay smiled, he felt a bit better now, thinking of his home calmed him down it seemed. The man walked through the city center towards the grand hall, it was located in the richer parts of town. He smiled fondly as he walked the streets he had often looked at from his window. They hadn't changed much since he was a child, but not much ever did when you lived in a city. People came and go but areas could stay the same for god knows how long.

Clay stopped at the doors to the Grand hall and scratched the stubble of his beard. He could hear voices, feel a heat and it made him not want to go inside. There was also some liquid, water he hoped, running from underneath the door. It didn't feel safe, but that was Clay's entire reaction to the city so with a big breath he pushed open the door quietly and slipped inside, closing the door behind him. Inside he could feel the moisture in the air and saw what seemed to be a large group of soaking wet people. He felt his heart beat a tiny bit faster but curiosity got the better of him. He moved forward quietly untill he came to a man just past the front group sitting on a chair. He was pale and looked dead. "Umm...sir, excuse me. I was wondering if you could tell me where I may find the Elders? I have a meeting with them" his voice was timid and quiet. He didn't want to attract the attention of the rest of the group.

[Meg-Milly]

NPC Post

The large double doors to the grand hall opened together, a formal guard holding open each door as the elders entered. The Chief Minister in the front halted inches from the edge of the rain that was falling in the room. He didn’t even have to glance behind him to signal. Madam Verga stepped forward immediately, and shortly thereafter the water that had been brought into the room began to disperse from the ceilings and floors, and even from the chair cushions and tapestries. Without a word, the elders continued into the Grand Hall, ignoring the chaos of those that had been summoned. They each took their appropriate seat, with the Chief Minister taking the tallest in the center. They sat and stared at each of the individuals in the room, their expressions grave and solemn.

Finally, the Chief Minister stepped forward to address the group. “Brave citizens of Aladora, you have been chosen to put an end to the chaos that is wreaking havoc in our realm. Many of you may have experienced this turmoil in the form of storms or quakes or even erupting volcanoes. As you well know, if we are to survive, we must put an end to the havoc the elements have invoked. It has been one year since the last attempt. If you do not know by now, all but three died.” As he said this, his eyes shifted to land upon Dezra and Masao. “The prophecy has foretold these perils and we must rise to its call. The ancient tomes speak of four great beasts who guard four elemental crystals that are needed to resurrect the Great Dragon. We must gather these crystals and save Aladora.”

Last year when he had given this speech, he had been so full of passion. He'd shouted out the words as though there were no possibility that they would fail so miserably. He did not believe that he would be here to say this again; to send more innocents to a gruesome death. He could only hope that they had chosen more wisely. With a stern expression upon his face he continued. “As of now, we know that the beast who possesses the Crystal of Earth resides within Silva Forest. There have always been reports saying that anyone who enters the northern sector, east of the river, does not come back alive. The people of Aladora, as you should know, have been forbidden to enter the area because of this. As the crystal is believed to reside there we grant you permission to enter it. We know very little about this zone: only what we have learnt from those who have returned, the only ones to have ever escaped the clutches of the forest maze. We will leave it to your comrades to explain the many dangers and perils you will face within it.” The man paused, taking on a look of both warning and gravity. "Do not take their words lightly. Sixteen strong willed fighters went into that maze last year, and only three have made it out by the skin of their teeth," He then took the time to stare each and every one of them in the eye, making sure that they thoroughly understood the dangers that they were about to face.

As the Minister of the High Council finished, the Earth Guardian stepped forward, picking up where he left off, “The fourteen of you shall travel northwest, following the river around Allus Peaks. Silva has never been a safe forest and you should be wary of its creatures and plant life, as many are vicious or poisonous, or both. We wish you luck on your journey. Do not forget to gather that which you need in town, and arrive at the Northern Gates by daybreak tomorrow to begin your journey. If any of you have questions or uncertainties, now is the time to voice them.”

Sin and Sacrifice

The Retarded Dove

Resonare Praeteriti

Digital Obsession

OrigamiCubes

Heathen_Goddess

Lucid Screamin

Iria33

[Iria33]

Kristen Shadowfordge

The dancing went on, as it seemed a guardian, and a healer entered the room. The sweet innocent calm was needed at such a stressful time, and it would be ruined by the female fire elemental. Kristen stood, her eyes focused, and her body ready to defend the water elemental as she hissed out in pain. Kristen even took a step forward. She showed no fear, only the protective nature of that of a true warrior. The smell hit her, and it only made her stomach roll. She knew that water only intensified heat. But the water elemental caused her to back down only because she was able to hold her own against the over the top Fire elemental.

The fire elemental was more then just pissed at the water elemental, but it seemed that she had lost sight of what was going on. The world was falling apart, and yes Ebony needed to be corralled, but it seemed she did not mind. But it was something that the fire elemental lost site of. Kristen remained quite, but eyed the elemental once things 'chilled out' once again.

Cici's comment went nearly unnoticed, and Kristen also noticed the way she relaxed once the cool water hit her and how she reacted to it as well. It seemed to take all the tension from the room, and had a calming affect upon the group even the male fire elemental. It was the Air elemental that seemed to stand up for Ebony, and the fact that they were equals. The Air elemental tended to her wounds, and Kristen visibly relaxed. She however remained standing, and waited for the response from Female Fire elemental.

Kristen nearly spoke up for the fact that they were all together here for the same reason, went past her as the hungover warrior Gerik spoke up. He called Cici out, He was right. Anyone could be a 'meat shield', but it took talent to make sure the Elemental's and the Guardians made it home. That was their job. She then realized that her own anger needed to be snuffed out for the same reasons. The fire elemental had her reasons, and Ebony was too much for her to handle at this time. Kristen let out a pent out breath, and sat down. Her eyes moved to a newcomer of the room. Kristen removed her hood, and the excess water fell to the floor.

He asked about the elders. That had been the question of the day. Where where they? Kristen proceeded to sit, but she eyed the newcomer, and sized him up as an Earth Elemental. His strong build, and short hair, his jaw line was covered by a beard, and it gave him a rather hansom look to him. Her eyes moved down from his brown eyes, to his full lips. He was nice to look at and she found herself staring at him. She quickly averted her eyes, and her cheeks flushed a bit. His words went in one ear and out the other, but he seemed to be rather lost looking. She could not help but smile. She took note of two more entering the room. An Air elemental, as well had joined the room. She took note of how she moved about the room avoiding the puddles. Kristen smirked at this as well.

The opening of the double doors saved her any further embarrassment, as the guard walked threw. Mentally she shook herself, and regained her composure as the guard followed in. It seemed it was time for the elders to make their entrance. Kristen stood at their entrance, and the excess water was leaving the room. The feel of it on her face was refreshing, and calming to her, and was missed once it was taken from the room, but Kristen in the end understood the meaning behind it. The Chief Minister took his spot and began after looking to each in turn. This set Kristen on edge, but only because when their eyes met, she felt a chill run down her spin. She felt true control in his gaze alone.

He spoke of the last attempt at controlling the elements. She had been recovering from her burns, and truly wished she was there to help but the healers kept her in bed rest for a very long time due to infections, and grafting of her skin. Kristen looked down for a moment wishing she could of been there to help, perhaps more of them would of survived if she was there to help? She took note of his glance to Dezra and Masao. And she looked to them in turn. He then spoke of the resurrection of the 'Great Dragon', and what the prophecy foretold. The very idea of doing so gave her chills once again, and she finally sat down.

The fact that only a handful had returned from the earth crystal maze. She narrowed her eyes wondering who would not take these survivors seriously? The Earth Elemental stepped forward speaking of how they needed to heed to caution of the Silva forest. She had been there, and skirted the section they had spoken about. She had been within their boundaries before her injury. She knew with an Earth Elemental's help, they would be able to navigate the forest and having her surviving skills and the knowledge of the area would come in handy. She remained quite until the end of the briefing.

"I have been within the forest, but never with in the maze itself. Though that does not mean don't understand the hazards to that what to expect. If it's even half of what I experienced just on the outside of the maze itself, then I am sure we are going to have to arm to the teeth for this." She said, and looked to the group.

Everyone in the room

That would be including, Digital Obsession, Lucid Screamin, TheMeg00, SillyMissMilly, Sin and Sacrifice, Resonare Praeteriti, Heathen_Goddess... I think that about covers it?

((Edited at the end there. She has never been in the maze, but knows most of the forest.))

[The Retarded Dove]

Miko Medino

She didn't listen to much of the conversation being spoken about with the others in the room. She believe that she was too blinded by the tapestry in the room. Among other things, Trainer's voice echoed in her mind telling her that-that could either be a good or bad thing. The rain as she entered became unnoticed to her, it was like her hair and skin rejected it. Technically, they couldn't possible reject anything, but maybe better words to put it was that they accepted it. Hearing the doors swing open a couple of more times she did not bare to look back, it was rude, or so she thought.

When the elders entered the room, she could feel the water evaporate and crawl over her body like tiny bugs. At first, she didn't realize that it could be the elders, but assuming that it was not her or the other water elemental, she had assumed that it was the elders. As the elders began to make their way to their seats and explained the details, she stood there looking at them intently. She did not let them leave her sight, in fact, when they looked at her -her eyes were still on them. It was slightly creepy, but she just wanted to show that she was attentive.

"Would you happen to know what will happen to Silva after we retrieve the crystal? Will everything return back to normal? Or at least subside into something less harmful?"




OOC:(( I accidentally lost my post from trying to edit the layout. I don't remember exactly what the exact words were, and I could not retrieve everything perfectly.. I hope this will kind of suffice))

[SillyMissMilly]

His mouth started to water a little at the scent of the fresh bread, he'd eaten before coming to the great hall but the time he'd spent waiting had worked up his appetite. A small grumble in his tummy practically had him jumping up from the wall to go and greet the woman. Yet he didn't, instead he looked to the ceiling where a large amount of water had been amassing. Thepuddle belonged to the strange looking water elemental with the long silver-blue hair. At once he realized just who she was. His coworkers had often spoken of a strange female water elemental by the name of Ebony, and she matched the description. They'd always told him of her lack of social skills, and brains. She had often caused them trouble despite her good heart, as she just didn't know her own strength. Xadrian now recognized the woman as someone he should watch out for, especially in terms of Dezra. He knew the fire elemental was never going to put up with her... And then it started raining. The guardian let out an exasperated sigh and rested his forehead in his hand. Dezra had already started steaming and heading over to Ebony, no doubt to cause him more grief.

But yet again he was rooted to the spot before he could act on his thoughts. An all too familiar energy had come into range of his aura sensing ability. Immediately his muscles tense and his face turned into a scowl. 'What is she doing here,' he thought angrily. Already he could hear the blonde woman's voice as she approached with a few others, guards he presumed. Sure enough she came walking through the doors, and to his dismay, she was not shackled, gagged, and blindfolded. Even worse yet was the fact that she decided to come and stand next to him. He tried his best to ignore her, but as she leaned against the wall beside him and began to mimic him he began grinding his teeth. It was a bad habit of his, and one of his biggest tells when he was angry. "More like it hasn't been long enough," he grumbled, "what the hell are you doing here anyways? A piece of trash like you would never do anything for the good of others." the look he gave her while he spoke was one that could kill. Xadrian's eyes glowed with icy rage while his face remained as still and expressionless as stone. Of all the air elementals the elders could have chosen they had to choose Cherise, the woman he'd caught trying to rob a sacred temple. He wanted nothing more than to see her rot in prison.

The entrance of this woman had distracted him entirely from the bread, the rain, Ebony and even Dezra. However she was not enough to distract him from the long awaited entrance of the Elders. Once the speech was finished Xadrian pushed himself from the wall and headed out the door. Normally he was the type to stick around and socialize, but after his run in with Cherise he was in no mood to act happy for anyone - especially her. Once he made it to his house he prepared his things and cooled off a bit before he headed out to his favorite place to eat. It would be a long while before he would return to Narran, if he ever did, so he wanted to enjoy it while he could. After his meal and a visit with his friends he returned home for the last time that day for some well deserved rest.

Once dawn had arrived Xadrian awoke, double checked his preparations, ate and left the house. The guardian headed for the city gates where everyone was to meet.

OOC:

TheMeg00

[Amiimii]

Tacita had been just about to answer the young man who had arrived just moments after he had taken his seat, but was interrupted by the elders themselves. It had taken them far longer than Tacita would have liked, and he even made a fool of himself in the process, something he still had to apologize for. Glad he didn't have to answer any questions, Tacita was complacent to simply sit and listen to the elders speak of how they were to save the world. This didn't interest Tacita in the slightest. Everyone he cared about was already long dead; he was here for his own gain. His own, personal, selfish reason. No other reasons mattered.

As such, he left immediately after the elders had stopped talking. Any further words would not aide him. He knew what he had to do, and knowing more or less didn't change that. Tacita left the building, and took it upon himself to eat. Having no home, he had no time constraints, and nobody to say goodbye too. Once he had his fill, he sat against the city gates where everyone was to meet. Here, he would spend the night, likely to be awoken when everyone arrived the next day.

Cici followed just about the same route. She chose to leave the building as the elders finished talking, needing nothing more than those words to ascertain that she would be sorely tested throughout this journey. All she needed to do was be a meat shield for the entirety of the journey. There couldn't possibly be a more complicated explanation that was necessary.

She did the same as Tacita, eating before retiring for the night. The difference between the two was that she had a room at a local inn thanks to the earnings of her last job. Come morning, she ensured she had a small bag of things she needed for her equipment before setting out. Along the road to city gates, she happened to spot one of the men who had been in the building. She couldn't place him, though.

"Hey," she greeted, doing a short jog to catch up with the figure before proffering her left hand somewhat awkwardly as she walked, as she always held her sword with her right hand. "I saw you in the building yesterday, but never got to meet you. In case you missed the raucous I caused yesterday, I'm Cici, a warrior who will be accompanying you on the journey."

SillyMissMilly

[TheMeg00]

Anger is like fire. . .
It burns it all clean

Dezra Reiloch

Dezra knew already that she was going to have trouble with this one. The girl seemed to have no common sense whatsoever, and figured that bringing in rain and dancing around in it was a good way to spend her energies. Sure, she had a little heating problem, but that was minor, and persisted because of senseless activities like this. What was worse, the water elemental didn’t even seem to be phased by it. She had exclaimed briefly in response to the burn – which Dezra did feel just the slightest bit of remorse for, though not anywhere near enough to comment on it – but otherwise she seemed completely unaware that there was any trouble at all. The girl was a disaster waiting to happen. They couldn’t afford to have such a wildcard on this sort of expedition, not to mention that Dezra would not put up with being rained on every five minutes.

The furious elemental had been just about to continue expressing her frustration to the girl when the air elemental had stepped in, and those burning eyes turned to him instead. She clenched her teeth for a moment and drew a breath, attempting to cool and calm herself, but it was clear that she had no patience for the situation at hand. Finally, with an icy tone, she levelly spoke to the one who had stepped in on the insane girl’s behalf. Fortunately, this time the earth elemental had only chosen to simply correct the water elemental and not step in himself.

“This girl is not our capable equal. She clearly has the mental capacity of a toddler. We cannot expect to complete our mission if we have to spend our energies babysitting a grown woman.” She had managed to keep her voice level as she spoke, and in general the fire elemental was calming as time was going by. She was still angry, certainly, but she had regained control of her little outbursts and returned to her usual manner of cool contempt. Something about being back here, she supposed, as well as the numerous other surprises that had occurred already today, had set her off in an unexpected way.

With that said, Dezra decided herself that the conversation was over. She did not give the man time to respond before she had simply turned away from him, moving to one of the walls and positioning herself under one of the tapestries. It wasn’t much help against the rain, but it was something at least. Her eyes turned towards the door as it opened, expecting that finally the elders had gotten their business taken care of. Instead, she watched as a small blonde walked in. The face was familiar, but she had difficulty placing it. She watched her curiously as the girl walked directly towards Xadrian and took a place next to him. She seemed excited to see him, but it was clear even from here that Xadrian did not share those sentiments.

Dezra observed this quietly until the door opened again, and her head snapped back to it. Still it was not the elders. Another man stepped in, bringing their number to fourteen. While she was relieved to see that it wasn’t another child walking through the doors, she found fault quickly enough: the man seemed confused, lost even. Did he not know where he was, or what he was here for? From this distance she was uncertain what he had said, but his expression gave almost as much away as his words. Just another red flag on Dezra’s list.

Finally, the elders made their grand entrance into the hall. She watched their entrance with an obvious disdain. At the very least, they had gotten rid of the rain. As they gave their speech, she glanced once in a while to Masao. It hadn’t been long ago that they had been hearing a similar monologue alongside another group. Déjà vu..

When they had finished, Dezra wasted no time. The others could hang around and ask questions for as long as they wanted, but she had sought to get out of this hall from the moment she had stepped in. It seemed that a few of the others had a similar plan, and she filed out with them. Although she did not respond to the question offered by the warrior, Dezra had overheard it on her way out, and she smirked at her words as she passed through the doors. She thought she knew what was coming. That poor girl had no idea..

The next morning, Dezra was one of the earliest to arrive, although it seemed that a select few had made it out before her. As she arrived she settled into a seated position next to one of the gate posts, closing her eyes as she waited for the rest of the group to join them. Her outfit had changed, as she was not foolish enough to go on such a quest in a dress! Instead, she had found a leather top and trousers, all fitted, and similar in design and color to her previous outfit with much more flexibility. The neckline came high across her throat, and the sleeves to her wrists. She was not the armored sort of warrior – truly, she was no “warrior” at all – and so instead she wore studded leathers as a meager form of protection, allowing for what was most important to her: movement. At her hips was a pack containing a few necessities and minimal rations, two simple daggers for a moment of crisis, and a flask of water. She made a point of bringing little, for she expected that they would be able to provide for themselves along their journey.

Aladoran Elemental
Keeper of Fire

Resonare Praeteriti

[Eurynomoz]

Gerik Ahlgren

As the elders entered, Gerik held position. Not until they passed their collective gaze over him did he realize he'd all but frozen, then relaxing his fist and posture into a sort of shrug before shuffling over to his pack. From there he listened without interruption. It was pragmatic to not voice how their words of caution were received as words of encouragement.

Gerik slipped out after shouldering his pack once the group finished. Last minute preparation stole him from whatever appetite he had for lingering and mingling; despite his persistent, if somewhat diminished, inebriation. No, while the evening remained young, there were other matters to address.

An hour was spent among the few shops still open, bartering what little he had to spare in favor of raw currency. Truly, currency didn't get any more raw than in the form of scrap silver. It meant for a lousy exchange rate when looking to reuse the payment, but such was the way of things. A solemn life lesson to discourage drunken gambling. After having acquired sufficient funds, he purchased a sizable portion of dried rations to fill out his nearly emptied pack. Along with a handful of other provisions; chief among them, supplements such as valerian root and ginseng, to provide examples of opposed effect.

What little funds remained had sufficed to find himself a humble room to rent. The final hours before slumber entailed the last maintenance on his gear that he may be allowed for quite some time. Gerik laid out each weapon, from bush knife to long sword, refining whatever imperfections might be on their edges. Deliberate care went into the long sword, as its edge was maintained in a peculiar fashion. From the precise point to about a quarter down the blade, it was treated to be sufficiently sharp for push and pull cuts without completely compromising edge durability; from the second quarter, the edge was considerably more stout, better suited to sustain direct chops and contact with other weapons, though the edge continually refined into cutting relief as it approached the cross guard. Once finished with the lot, Gerik coated all exposed steel with oil before stowing the weapons for the night.

__________

Much to his own surprise, he'd awoken at the proper time to depart. Of course allowing time for a full meal and to clean up, Gerik thereafter took to the early morning streets. Life already breathed through the place as early risers went about their business, setting up store fronts, receiving deliveries, and so on. Gerik, however, reckoned little of this with full attention. Complete readiness overtook whatever slop of drunkenness painted him the earlier night.

With preparedness came more revealed gear; the gauntlets and greaves, stowed during the prior meeting, were in position and strapped securely. Hung by a leather tie on his left hip was his buckler, its peculiar spikes pointing downward. On the opposite hip, his short sword, positioned with greater confidence and accessibility on his belt. Leaving, of course, the long sword on his back. By comparison, his prior appearance was terribly disheveled, though perhaps a fact only truly appreciable by fellow veterans; those who have fought to find the perfect distribution of equipment and weapons on their frame. By how Gerik carried himself, it was evident he'd long since found his.

Gerik's straightforward travels eventually brought him to the north gate, where he saw he wasn't the earliest to rise after all. He didn't see fit to announce himself as he approached. But, as he did, he drew in a deep breath of the fresh air. "Ah! I love that smell," he started, but affected a look of some perplexion. He directed this towards Dezra, "Is it rain that approaches, perhaps?"

[Sin and Sacrifice]

Let the Fire consume me
Let the Fire burn!
Let the curse flow through me
Let the Fire burn!!

Masao Reyen

Masao's introduction was cut short as the double doors of the Grand Hall swung open. He turned his gaze to find guards entering the room, and he knew they had finally arrived. His mood sunk a little, more to his sullen norm as they entered. As he stated before he didn't really care for politicians, and these old bastards were a few of the worst in his eyes. As they passed, Masao turned and made his way to a nearby wall and stood against it with his eyes towards the floor. He didn't care to watch them while the spoke. In fact, he'd rather be off meditating or resting, he was sure this would all be the same information as before, why should he have to hear it again?

When the Elders were situated and began their speech, Masao would occasionally glance at the others rather than them. He was curious to see the responses people would have to what the old men had to say. Every now and then he'd catch a glance from Dezra, who he assumed felt just about as he did. Thankfully the speech was kept short, and once they were finished, Masao quickly snatched up his sword and was out the door. He didn't care to stay and converse over the matter. The thought of what Cici asked and what the Council said came back and made him chuckle lightly as he passed through the courtyard. What could they truthfully prepare them for? The last time had gone so far away from plan that it was hard to say what could happen. Of course they would have to speak on the maze, but he felt it best that be left to the journey. Why work them up on the maze when their concentration would need to be set on getting there first? The forest held many more dangers other than just the maze and earth demon.

The fire elemental spent the rest of the night in and out of shops, picking up the remainder of the supplies he'd need and having his sword sharpened. Finally he made his way to a tavern, and after a meal and drink, rented one of the spare rooms. It was nothing more than a desk and bed, but that's all he needed. Masao had a large amount of money from trading, but rarely ever found use for it. His life in the Norrik forest and Gerik desert forced him to learn survival skills, making him learn to be self-sufficient. Confident that he had done everything he could to prepare himself, he laid on his bed and was deep asleep after a long exhausting day.

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Masao took little time getting ready in the morning. He ate a large breakfast at the tavern, wanting to be well nourished for what laid ahead of them. He found his way to northern gate, feeling a large amount of deja vu as he did. He shook his head, keeping the thought from his head as he reached the gate. It seemed a few of the others had beaten him here. He had honestly hoped to be the latest so they could just leave, but he would wait. Finding a spot against the wall of the gate, Masao sat with his back to the wall, eyes closed as he rested until their departure.

I pound the walls
I shake the cage
I will not fall
I will not fail!

Location: Northern Gate
With: Nobdoy
OOC:

[TheMeg00]

Cherise Beaumont

Cherise was enjoying how annoyed she was making him just by being there. Surely he hadn’t expected to see her again, especially not somewhere like this. Usually she legitimately attempted to draw people to her side, but in this situation she knew that she was long past it, as it had been with the guards before. Seeing as there was no chance of it, she opted instead to have as much fun with the situation as she could. As he called her a piece of trash, she feigned offense with a gasp and a surprised and shocked expression. In truth, she was surprised he had not said worse. “My dear, you don’t mean that. Of course I would assist in something as important as this, this—” Cherise waved a hand dismissively at the rest of the room. “-Whatever business this is. Obviously, it is of the utmost importance, and the elders summoned me personally.” She feigned a significant self-importance. While she did think quite highly of herself, she was going a little over the top now. All for effect, of course.

And just like that, as though it were on cue, the elders entered the room. The old folks had impressive timing. Cherise leaned back casually against the wall, glancing at Xadrian with a smirk, and then turned her attention back to the old folks as they drawled on and on about some dangerous mission. The girl shamelessly yawned through most of the speech, and except for that first few seconds her eyes were anywhere but on those speaking in front of them. She was attempting to get a feel for the others in the room, to see what sort of personality types she would be working with. There was quite a variety here, and she would have to tread carefully. Fortunately, she was good at that.

This was all supposing she even arrived the next day. She had been released from the guard to a temporary watcher of the council’s choosing for the night, and she anticipated that it would not be much of a challenge to escape. It would likely be some guardian, someone with a big head that would think too much of themselves to think that she could possibly slip away. Her prediction wasn’t completely unfounded. A lot of men seemed to have a serious superiority complex when it came to taking on a small creature like herself. Cherise wasted no time leaving the hall after the elders had finished, and she even managed to sneak her way out of the building with the small group that had fled immediately – or so she had thought. She had just turned to separate herself from them and made it a couple of streets when she was saw an older woman in her path wearing a long dress of dark blue. The girl instantly recognized the woman, her confidence dropping considerably.

”Cherise” the woman said calmly, her sharp gaze unsettling the girl. ”I hear that you’ve been causing trouble – stealing, of all things. I thought that they must have the wrong girl. The girl that I taught was far too lazy to put in that sort of effort. And yet, here you are.”

Cherise stared at the woman with disdain, her eyes narrowed sharply. “You’re who they’ve sent to detain me then, Deidra,” she said slowly.

”I didn’t think it was the wisest idea, either. I told them that you should be treated equally to any other common thief and have your hand removed. They insisted that you were their only option. It seems that their first choice was unable to make it.”

“So I’ve heard.”

”We started a pool, though. We were going to take bets as to whether or not you would make it. However, it seems that no one believes that you will. So we’ve decided to bet on how long.”

“Shut up and let’s go, you old b***h,” Cherise sneered irritably. She turned without another word and headed off ahead of her. She knew where they were going. The old woman gave a painful, high-pitched scream, screeching like a banshee about disrespect. Cherise winced at the noise, but she was done paying attention to her. She did not flee, though. They had done well in picking her keeper for the night.

---

The next morning, Cherise arrived on time and in one piece. With the hag gone, her mood had improved significantly, and she seemed to be back to her normal self pretty quickly. She had cleaned up and redressed in a few slight, fitted pieces that fit close to her figure and showed off a few of her womanly assets with very minimal armor. She wasn’t exactly the fighting type. She preferred to find whatever means necessary to get out of it, and showing off a little skin tended to help in her experience. Still, she did her best to look as though she was trying to take this seriously, and she wasn’t exactly flaunting it. Her bow and arrows were placed across her shoulder, and her equipment and daggers were again at her hip. She’d managed to snag a couple of odds and ends for food as they had gone through town from the shops preparing to open. It wasn’t as though she intended to stick around for the entire trip anyway. She planned to slip away as soon as the opportunity presented itself. A day or two, tops.

She looked over those who had arrived. Of course, she considered bothering Xadrian a little more, but she supposed she would let him off the hook for a little while. There were others here that she could interact with. The pale man, to be honest, gave her the heebie jeebies. The warrior in bright red armor was speaking to Xadrian, and the guy that she could have sworn was drunk the day before was speaking to a dark haired elemental. Her choices limited, Cherise played a quick game of eenie-meenie with the two men that had not yet been approached. With her decision made, she headed for the creepy pale guy, who appeared to be sleeping. She kneeled down in front of him, her expression worried and a little uncertain.

“Excuse me,” she spoke up cautiously. “Excuse me, sir. I’m sorry to wake you, but I believe I saw you yesterday. Are you on this quest as well?”

SillyMissMilly

Digital Obsession

[SillyMissMilly]

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Ebony's face looked a little confused at Tacita's words, she couldn't understand exactly what he meant. The idea of dying not meaning to live just didn't make sense to her. It just seemed like there were to many new concepts running around in her head at once and she couldn't sort them out. She tilted her head to the side as he walked away. It made her a little sad that he'd decided to leave her company as she already thought of him as a friend, but she bounced back quickly.

After her few words to the female fire elemental the floaty man who'd been dancing with her came and stood up for her. She didn't realize that was what he was doing as she didn't realize she was really being bullied. She had assumed the woman's actions were an accident or that was just simply how she always talked. Luckily for her, someone recognized that Dezra may have gone a little too far. Ebony let the man move her further from the haughty woman to inspect the burn. She watched eagerly as a little ball of wind formed in his hand and mingled with the water she'd made rain from the ceiling. Next it carried the water to swirl around her arm creating a cooling effect on the affected area. In all reality the burn didn't hurt, only the initial shock had, or rather her delayed shock. She grinned up at him and said, "thank you butterfly man!" In her mind the wind and water that swirled around her arm was super cool and looked like the prettiest armlet ever!

It didn't take long for the moment to be broken as Dezra chipped in with an insult. Ebony's eyes narrowed at the woman but no one would be able to see this due to her long bangs. "I am not a toddler!" she protested crossing her arms. "At least I can control my powers enough to not hurt my friends, and I don't loose my temper like a whiny baby either," she said matter-o-fact-ly. The last part was said to the woman's back as she walked away so she wasn't sure if she'd been heard or not. Either way Ebony wasn't too concerned. After that last comment she was sure the woman was probably just having a bad day anyways. She just didn't like it when people took their anger out on her. Sadly, she was pretty used to it, she didn't know why but people always seemed to blame her for everything, "Oh well," she murmured and shrugged her shoulders.

Turning to the air elemental who'd come to her rescue she said, "I'm Ebony by the way," and stuck out her left hand for him to shake. This was of course improper but she didn't know any better, she only knew that you were supposed to shake hands when you introduced yourself. As she spoke she tilted her head way back so that she could see him from under her bangs. "And thank you for the pretty armlet! It makes my arm feel nice," she added cheerily. Were he to take her hand he would find that her handshake was very strong and firm, and more like that of a large man's than a slender woman's.

Soon after that the Elder's Finally made their entrance. Ebony bowed deeply to them as they passed, just like Mammy had told her to. She listened to what they had to say but most of it went in one ear and out the other, all she really retained was that they were going on a super epic quest full of lots of danger to go and get a treasure from somewhere really dangerous. All other details were lost save for the place she was supposed to meet everyone in the morning. At the end of their speech they invited everyone to ask questions. Putting a finger to her chin she tried to think of one, however because she didn't really remember anything she couldn't. She was then pulled from her thoughts a girl with pale hair spoke up as well as the lady who'd been laughing hysterically. Finally she also thought of a question and pipped up, "What do we do if someone dies!?" she blurted out.

Ebony had stayed and listened to everything that was said before she left the building with the last of the adventurers. Unlike the other adventurers Ebony did not stay at an inn. Rather she spent the night with a good friend of her Mammy's. This lady was much like her mother in many ways, especially the part about being an old kook. They had a pleasant meal and the woman helped Ebony prepare for her journey, she even gave the girl some armor to cover her legs, and a corset style chest piece to go over the top of her dress. When morning arrived the old lady made sure Ebony had a decent breakfast and was out the door in tie to meet the others.

It wasn't that much further ahead that Ebony could see the gate and a few of her soon to be friends gathering there. Rather than walking she skipped happily along, her large scythe thunk-ing into the dirt with every bounce. She grinned happily with her hands clasped behind her back and a small messenger satchel resting on her hip. Once the was standing within their company she happy said, "Morning everyone!" as chipper as ever.

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OOC:









TheMeg00


Resonare Praeteriti

[OrigamiCubes]

The elders entered shortly after the Earth Elemental spoke, his question he had asked the man before him was left hanging in the air, it had answered itself it seemed. Clay took a seat now towards the front of the group, his head swiveling around to gauge the other people in the room, the other elemental, there was fourteen on the in the room, two of each element apparently with healers and warriors and all sorts thrown in to aid them in their quest for...what had the elder said? Crystals. Clay's eyes had widened at that point, crystals were nature, minerals that had been exposed to a immense amount of pressure and heat. To say they weren't common was a misunderstanding. He had never seen anything more than a piece of agate or a geode cluster, and then that had been in a museum as a child. His curiosity in this quest had piqued it seemed, he would stay for now, besides he had always needed to get out and meet people, shame he was an introvert and hated to socialize eh?

Earth Crystal, if I just see this whole thing up until there they won't need me, what good would an earth elemental be after that? the thought flashed through his mind quickly and helped him be calm as he decided on his actions to partake in the quest. His head turned as people spoke out their concerns or there experiences with the maze and forest they were required to travel to, a warrior in particular told of how she had been to the edge of the maze and how they would need to be armed to the teeth. Clay shuddered. He didn't own armor of any sorts and the only weapons he had was a dagger fashioned out of flint. His hand to hand skills were just above average, and that was only because he had been bullied as a child in school for being an elemental freak who liked his own company. The man bit his lip and ran through the list of supplies he would need to gather....or steal...he didn't have money after all, he lived outside of the city walls living off of the land.

The meeting over the earth elemental sat on his own, pondering the speech that had just been delivered to him, when he did stand and look around he realized he was the only one left. Clay sighed and relaxed slightly, he was glad he was alone now, to think and not have rabble and words thrown about the place. He didn't understand how people could talk about nothing for however long. He preferred to say what needed to be said and then be quiet again, his words carried more power and strength then and were not wasted. Leaving the hall Clay walked the dead streets of the city, much more at ease with how quiet the place had become. He hummed as he walked and headed towards the market, enjoying the breeze as it blew down the streets between houses, feeling the rough cobble on his bare feet. A smile appeared on his face, if only the city could remain like this forever he may just join back into society, hell after this he may even want to, things were about to change, Clay knew that much, what would change and for better or for worse? He had no idea.

Arriving at the marketplace the earth elemental was relieved to find a vendor still open, he sheepishly edged towards the stall and picked out a simple satchel. Quietly he slipped it from its hook and placed in items he believed he would need that wouldn't be common in the wild. While the vendor turned his back to get something from behind him Clay took off, he wasn't a quick man but with his heart beating like a drum and adrenaline coursing through his body he managed to make it to the gates before he even realized. He noted that the man he had tried to talk to earlier sat by the arches but Clay choose not to disturb him, he wandered away slightly untill he found a decent sized rock where he could sleep away from the gate while still having a view of it. After the stress of the day and worrying about the quest sleep came quickly to Clay.

The next morning after he had awoken Clay picked a sprig of mint from a bush near him and placed it in his mouth before picking up his satchel and slowly walking towards the group that was amassing at the gates. When he was close enough he cleared his throat quietly. "H...Hi guys" he muttered staring at the floor.