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Rohan had indeed been listening, but the scion of giants was also deep in thought.
Rohan looked down at his hands, his arms, then to his feet that were ever so slightly melded into the ground. He wasn't even sure what was going on, the pure power of the hammer in his presence caused his skin to take on a more noticeably greyish cast, similar to rock, as his body seemed to harden It brought to mind memories of stone giants (perhaps something from his past?), but he could not hold on to it. Was this his family, his lineage, or something else entirely? He looked around to see if anything was happening to anyone else, but it appeared to be only him. Perhaps this was something greater then his understanding.
He thought for several moments while he was trying to figure out what was really going on, but decided that right now was not the time and just continued to focus on the stuff at hand...
Rohan had set the issue aside since emerging from Uskroth's Tomb, but found that he could do so no longer. For with each passing day, a need that the scion of giants could not explain had settled upon him, intruding in nearly all aspects of his life.
His thoughts were interrupted by Liesel-Marie's string of queries. Halgra? Did he say 'my brethren'? These druids died centuries ago? Rohan smiled as she looked at Silvermane, These were friends you fought alongside? You have seen many winters, my friend. Many more than I ever imagined.
And he doesn't look a day over 300, the Chief Defender said with a chuckle. She continued, her tone more serious. Slivermane has told me that the greatest gift that humankind possess is their ability to embrace the notion of 'eternal love'. For only those whose lives are brief can imagine such a thing. To live on, as elves do, is to leave behind joy and love and companionship because the elves know it to be transitory -- of the moment. The elves know that eventually, it will turn to ash.
There was a marked silence as her unusually somber words hung in the air. And in that moment, Rohan turned to Liesel-Marie, indicating to the Erutaki that he wished to speak with her away from the others.
Earlier that day, Rohan had consulted with Katrezra, the gnarled old half-orc seer, hoping to gain some measure of understanding what was happening to him. In doing so, the scion of giants learned that it was called "hearing the voice of the stone". It was a phenomena exclusive to stone giants, with those that experienced it often becoming elders of their clan. Gol-Kaa like Rohan typically did not possess the innate connection to the bones of the world, to the rock and stone, to experience such a calling. Katrezra had concluded that Rohan would truly know no peace until he answered the yearning, and that for him to do so meant leaving both Trunau and the members of Team Ruby to seek out a stone giant clan for guidance.
Rohan did not wish to leave the only people that he had come to consider his family, but given what was happening, he would be no good to them in his current state. For as much as the idea of leaving them behind pained him, the thought that what was happening to him could potentially cause them harm proved to be much worse in his mind.
So the scion of giants decided to spend one last night with his friends, his family, before setting out on his own the next day. The half-orc had told Rohan that the best place to begin his search was the Mindspin Mountains near the border between Belkzen and the western lands of Varisia, as the northern section of the range was filled with giants.
As this would be a spiritual journey, Katrezra had informed Rohan that he could take nothing with him save for the garments on his person. That meant leaving behind all of his possessions as well as the hammer Agrimmosh. With that, he presented Liesel-Marie the relic, that she was to hold onto it until such time that he could reclaim it from her himself.
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Liesel-Marie does indeed attend to Rohan's summons.
The surprise on her face is obvious as he explains his struggles and she tries to talk him out of it, knowing that his absence will create a void in Team Ruby, but also knowing that once, she felt a calling to leave the world of ice and snow that was all she had ever known and there was nothing that could be done but follow her calling. Why do I remember that now? It seems so clear, yet I haven't known of that since... since waking up in Trunau.
She shakes her head to clear it and sees Rohan sadly shaking his head. No, he's right. He must follow where the yearning leads. Then he drops an even bigger surprise as he hands her Agrimmosh. Holding it once more, she watches the hammer adjust itself to her size ever so slightly after being claimed by the man-giant.
She reaches out for a warrior's clasp. "The hammer Agrimmosh will be here in my hands waiting for you when you are ready to reclaim it. It will taste the blood and crush the bones of our enemies. It has slumbered too long and will know battle once more. Return to us safely, son of giants."
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Rohan accepted the gesture, then pulled the Erutaki in close, saying I know you will put it to good use. Tell the others only after I am gone. It'll make things easier.
He gave a soft chuckle as released her from his embrace. At least it will for me. Take care, of yourself and everyone else. And with those words, Rohan, scion of giants, turned to walk away. Though he wore a smile on his face, inside his heart was breaking.
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Nyym stayed back and watched as Rohan and Liesel-Maries spoke. After Rohan turned to leave after handing off Agrimmosh. As Rohan walked away, Nyym stepped up next to Liesel-Maries..
I hate that he is leaving, but I understand. I hope he finds the answers he is looking for. With him leaving, we should consider Aohdens suggestion and ask the 2 that came in with Frum and Vegazi would be willing to join us.
Nyym looked around at the immediate area at the rebuilding efforts that had already taken place.
I for one would like like to take the fight to the orcs for a change. At least then we will be able to keep the fight away from here. Our home has already seen to much death and destruction. And if anything from our past happens to present itself along the way, then we will handle that too
There was no amusement in his tone as he spoke. His family was splitting up. Some for their own reasons and others because conditions dictate it. Nyym was now comfortable with it and was very much looking forward to when they could all link back up and all their trouble be behind them.
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”This Grinderduck the giant. I don’t care about orcs - they are merely rough patches in the road to the giant. We will roll over them or around them. But I intend to send this giant to her maker with his own hammer. I saw a vision of how he created giants with this hammer. I’m going to un-create one with it. And. She. Will. Know. Why.”
The Erutaki’s eyes were watching Rohan walk away, but right now, her face might have been the one of stone. She looks at Nyym, ”I seek nothing from this, but debts to the dead of Trunau are owed. Let us collect on those debts.” She reaches out with her free hand and squeezes his shoulder.
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Nyym felt the same way. Looking to Liesel-Maries as she looked to hjm..
Indeed. And collect those depts we will. It's high time that this giant learned just how big a mistake she just made. I'm with you all the way. Grinderduck has a date with her maker. Let's us see to it that she doesn't keep him waiting.
Nyym looked back toward the direction of Rohans disappearing back..
And any that stand in our way can join her in hell.
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Tsadok being impressed once again with the quality and quantity of food prepared by Aiko. He savors every bit and sip of his meal picturing his family of long ago.
As he starts to sip his Molthuni Brandy, he see Aiko and motions for her to join him. And also motion to the barmaid for another Brandy for Aiko.
Aiko you once again prepared a great meal. And I apologies for the work I have caused you with this meal as well. And with that said Tsadok produces 20 gold sails and places in front of Aiko. I think that will show my thanks to you.
And he sits their and talks with Aiko for as long as she does. Talking of the past times of the city. Laughing and telling tales of long ago. It does Tsadok good to release every so often before he comes back to the reality of things.
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Time, I think, for this little gathering to adjourn, said Halgra, upon seeing the members of Team Ruby separate themselves into different groups. Enjoy tonight, for there is ever only one time that is truly important to those that lead the lives we do - now! It is the only time we have any power. Silvermane nodded sagely at the Chief Defender's words before turning to take his leave.
The haggard human woman followed suit, heading inside Ivory Hall along with her youngest daughter.
Aiko accepted the glass of brandy with a smile.
Aiko you once again prepared a great meal. And I apologize for the work I have caused you with this meal as well. And with that said Tsadok produces 20 gold sails and places in front of Aiko. I think that will show my thanks to you.
She lifted her head and stared down her nose at the gold coins that Tsadok had placed on the table, her reddish-orange eyes narrow, before setting down her cup and rising from where she had been sitting. Your benevolence is most appreciated and unexpected, she said while giving a slight bow. On behalf of those who worked in the kitchen, I humbly accept your gracious gift.
The Minkai woman motioned once again for a server. Take half of this and give it to Lady Larringfass, while the other half is to be dispensed evenly among the kitchen staff. The server nodded and moved quickly to gather up the money and head to the back.
Aiko resumed her place at the table. It is my duty to serve and I strive to do it well. Disgrace hangs over my head like a sword, and I am aware of its keen edge with my every action. At times, it can be more than flesh and blood can stand, but the true meaning of patience is being able to bear the unbearable.
She took a sip of from her glass. Aiko listened to the grey-skinned half-orc's tales with interest, but she spoke very little of where was from, save only that the land was called Jinin, preferring to allow Tsadok the opportunity to speak.
Aodhàn looked around at the rest of Team Ruby, noting that Liesel-Marie and Nyym were discussing something (probably what their expectations were regarding the mission given them by Halgra), as were Mesa and Nogusta. Leaving him free to talk with Kytynna.
This was not the way I wanted you to find out what I had been planning, he began, a look of consternation on his face as he watched Kyt push some stray hair behind one of her long ears to join the rest of the mass in her braided deep black bun. With a sigh, the Chelish bouncer continued. My mind is filled with thoughts and images not entirely my own. And I have no way to sort through them properly. I think they may hold some sort of clue to my, no - all of our pasts.
I'm thinking maybe the best place to start would be in Ustalav. But that's not a trip I can make alone. You've got more than just me to look after. This entire town is your responsibility now. And I won't keep you from it. So I'm taking Mesa, Nogusta, and Vegazi with me.
Kyt crossed her arms, the pale skin brushing against the fabric of the light blue midriff top, which sat above light blue baggy ankle-cuffed style pants, her new hopeknife proudly displayed at the waist, and black leather tie up sandals. She stared at him with those large unblinking aqua-hued orbs of hers, her expression unreadable, her silence sending a shiver of doubt across his being.
His frustration was beginning to mount. Yell at me. Hit me. Say you hate me. Do anything other than just stand there staring at me like that.
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Liesel-Marie looks up from her conversation with Nyym, intending to ask Halgra or Silverman more questions, only to realize they have both taken their leave.
"Well, I guess we have our mission. Tomorrow we can ask where we are to meet the BloodTusk captain. Tonight, I don't feel like celebrating. She reaches back to pull her greataxe free and hold it in her right hand. With the stone Agrimmosh in her left, she holds them forth. "I believe I need to give some thought to using stone and flame to our advantage. Good night, my friend."
She takes her leave, headed toward her lodging for the night. She packs the few belongings she feels she will need for the trip before getting a candle and lighting it. As she did at the ceremony, she stares into the flame, looking for answers, but with a new question: How to use Agrimmosh to benefit their mission the best...
When the candle gutters out, the bloodrager stands and stretches, unsure if she found any answers, and climbs into bed to sleep.
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Nyym also turned to realize that Halga and company had retired. Turning back to LM in response to her dismissing herself for the night.
Good night to you as well my friend. See you in the morning.
Nyym watched her walk away for a couple moments before turning toward Aohden and Kyt.
Aohden? Kyt? I thin....
Nyym stopped his words before they could fully leave his lips. Having turned to see Kyt brush aside some stray stands of hair from her face. He thought it best to not disturb them. While he felt attracted to Kyt. Having witnessed what transpired in the tomb. He called his pride and silently watched for a moment in thought.
Aohden and Kyt are my friends. Jealousy has no business among friends. Besides, after what happened to Aohden in the tomb. He deserves a few moments of happiness.
Nyym moved back towards where the cleansing flame still crackled in the night. So much had happened. While it was a victory for Trunau. Everyone had still suffered from the loss of someone close. A husband, wife, brother, sister, father, mother, child.... The price of their victory had been to high. As Nyym stood there watching, he allowed his eyes to follow the embers as they rose and faded. Rising into the star lit sky carrying spirits into the heavens. If protecting his home requires his leaving to protect it. He would not like it. But he would do it. He would do it to protect his new home from any threat that stood to harm his family, friends, and home. Nyym took a seat on some steps and lost himself in his thoughts. He continued to watch the flames and those that remain to mourn their losses and celebrate the lives that remained and passed.
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The Erutaki looks up from her conversation with Nyym, intending to ask Halgra or Silvermane more questions, only to realize they have both taken their leave. Nyym also begins to realize that the Chief Defender (along with Mesa, Nogusta, Ruby and Silvermane) has retired for the night.
Well, I guess we have our mission. Tomorrow we can ask where we are to meet the Bloodtusk captain. Tonight, I don't feel like celebrating. Liesel-Marie reaches back to pull her greataxe free and hold it in her right hand. With the stone hammer Agrimmosh in her left, she holds them forth. I believe I need to give some thought to using stone and flame to our advantage. Good night, my friend.
Nyym turns back to Liesel-Marie in response to her dismissing herself for the night. Good night to you as well my friend. See you in the morning.
Insert Song: Led Zeppelin - The Battle of Evermore (Remaster)
She takes her leave, headed toward her lodging for the night. Nyym watches her walk away for a couple moments before turning towards Aodhàn and Kyt.
Aodhàn? Kyt? I think....
Nyym stops his words before they could fully leave his lips. Having turned to see Kyt brush aside some stray stands of hair from her face, she stares at the Chelish bouncer with those large unblinking aqua-hued orbs of hers, her expression unreadable. The half-drow decides it best to not disturb them. While he felt attracted to Kyt, he checks his pride and silently watches for a moment in thought.
Aodhàn and Kyt are my friends. Jealousy has no business among friends. Besides, after what happened to him in the tomb, he deserves a few moments of happiness.
Nyym moves back towards where the Flame of the Fallen still crackles in the night. So much has happened. While it was a victory for Trunau, everyone still suffers from the loss of someone close. A husband, wife, brother, sister, father, mother, child.... The price of their victory has been too high. As Nyym stands there watching, he allows his eyes to follow the embers as they rise into the starlit sky carrying spirits into the heavens. If protecting his home requires his leaving to do so, he will not like it. But he will do it. He will do it to guard his new home from any threat that stands to harm his family and friends. Nyym takes a seat on some steps and loses himself in his thoughts. He continues to watch the flames and those that remain to mourn their losses and celebrate the lives that remain.
And as the half-drow is pondering these things on his own, Liesel-Marie makes it back to the Ramblehouse. Though she is greeted by Cham, the Erutaki seems to caught up in her thoughts to notice. After making it back to her room, she packs the few belongings she feels she will need for the trip before getting a candle and lighting it. As she did at the ceremony, she stares into the flame, looking for answers, but with a new question: How to use Agrimmosh to benefit their mission the best...
Within the fire, Liesel-Marie sees sparks flying. A moment later, she hears the all too familiar sound of a hammer striking the anvil, as though something is being forged. The Erutaki begins to recall a conversation that she once had with Sara, the half-orc proprietor of Morninghawk's Fine Steel and seat holder on the Council of Defenders.
When you forge a weapon, you need three things: the right metal, temperatures over fourteen hundred degrees... and someone who wants to kill. Here in Belkzen, all three exist. Beyond Trunau's walls is a heartless place. Ruled by many savage orc tribes. Constantly at war. Me, I'm just a blacksmith. Minding my own business. And biding my time. I never wanted to make tools for killing, but I made the sacrifice for the woman I love. I'm not excusing my decision. That's not my way. But I see a lot of myself in you. Someday, razkiv, you'll have to make a similar choice. Someday, you'll have to decide what kind of smith you want to be.
The ringing of metal striking metal begins to fade as the candle's flame descended lower and lower. When the candle gutters out, the bloodrager stands and stretches, unsure if she found any answers, and climbs into bed to sleep.
After witnessing the arrival of the local hero Liesel-Marie, Aiko rises from her seat, as though she means to personally greet the Erutaki. However, the Minkai woman is put off from this, due to both her silence and the weapons she carries in each hand. Aiko decides it best to leave Liesel-Marie alone for now. Instead, she takes a cautious glance around the room.
Nothing seems out of the ordinary to Aiko. That is until she catches sight of a silver-haired elf turning away to avoid meeting her gaze. On another night, Aiko wouldn't have thought much about this. But given how Liesel-Marie had acted mere moments before, she decides to focus all of her scrutiny on this one elf.
Aiko's reddish-orange eyes shimmer briefly.
Much to her surprise, the Minkai woman sees a faint gray cloud cling to the silver-haired elf. Interspersed amidst the roiling aura are lightning flashes of vermillion. And the elf is not alone. There are at least two others in the room, but she does not know exactly where.
You there, she calls out. If something is troubling you, do not hesitate to express what that may be. Perhaps you might wish to do so outside, to avoid the prying of unwanted ears? She gestures with one hand toward the door, while the other she uses to grip the golden sash about her waist.
The silver-haired elf, feeling the weight of her eyes upon him, meets Aiko's gaze, revealing solid white orbs.
The Minkai woman says nothing more beyond this, but her gaze never leaves that of the elf as he rises from his seat. He is dressed in fitted pants, a shirt, a hooded cloak, and soft leather boots, all in neutral colors and the few buttons and rivets that can be seen are wrapped in dull, dark cloth.
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Nyyms keeps his movement slight sons not to tip his hand. Not reaching for the twin blades as that would be an obvious hostile move. No Nyym watches and waits. His keen senses on edge as watches his opponent. Then he remembered Aohden and Kyt just up the way and ever so slightly looked in their direction to see if they also had company. Keeping his own in his sight as well..
so much for a peaceful night of morning and celebration..
The numbers and where each participant was would dictate his actions. He also tried to recall if he knew this fellows symbol.
As Nyym searched for other opponents that he and the others would have to face. He was quickly reminded that a fight at this time would be very bad. With others celebrating and morning, they would not only be unaware of the danger till it happened, But in the Confusion of a fight. More of the townsfolk could potentially be injured or killed. After what they just went through and there reasons for being out tonight all tonight. That was not acceptable to Nyym. No, we need to avoid a fight if at all possible.
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Nyym
Nyym keeps his movement slight so as not to tip his hand. Not reaching for the twin blades as that would be an obvious hostile move. No, Nyym watches and waits. His keen senses on edge as he observes his opponent. Then he remembers Aodhàn and Kyt just up the way and ever so slightly glances in their direction to see if they also had company while keeping his own within his line of sight as well.
So much for a peaceful night of mourning and celebration..
As Nyym searches for other opponents that he and the others would have to face, the half-drow is quickly reminded that a fight at this time will be very bad. With townsfolk out both celebrating and mourning, they would not only be unaware of the danger till it happened, but in the confusion of a fight, more of them could potentially be injured or killed. After what Trunau just went through and with their reason for being out tonight, this was not acceptable to Nyym.
No, we need to avoid a fight, if at all possible.
The elf speaks to Nyym after approaching him, using words that are very reminiscent of Elven, but seem to lack the innate poetry in its cadence and tone the other language possesses.
Why aren't you disguised? You could jeopardize our mission walking around openly like that. The elf, a female, shakes her head as she reaches into a pouch and tosses Nyym a metal flask. Drink it and get your head in the game. You need to back up the other headhunters at the inn. That samurai isn't going to be an easy hit. She's surrounded herself with some hitters, but we're taking care of them with the nest of serus.
Araki Aiko
You there, she calls out. If something is troubling you, do not hesitate to express what that may be. Perhaps you might wish to do so outside, to avoid the prying of unwanted ears? She gestures with one hand toward the door, while the other she uses to grip the golden sash about her waist.
The silver-haired elf, feeling the weight of her eyes upon him, meets Aiko's gaze, revealing solid white orbs.
The Minkan woman says nothing more beyond this, but her gaze never leaves that of the elf as he rises from his seat. He is dressed in fitted pants, a shirt, a hooded cloak, and soft leather boots, all in neutral colors and the few buttons and rivets that can be seen are wrapped in dull, dark cloth.
After a tense moment of silence, the silver-haired elf speaks in oddly accented Elven. I want no trouble, samurai.
The response prompts Aiko to raise an eyebrow as she responds also in the Elven tongue. You know that word when few in these lands would. How is it that you do when others do not?
There is another here in this town that comes from the Dragon Empires, a bard. She has regaled those that would listen to her songs and tales of warriors associated with honor, sworn service, and the art of war. She called them samurai. I've seen you here practicing with your swords and just recently you spoke with that one (at this he points toward Tsadok) stating that you're from a place called Jinin. That's not any land on this continent, so I made the assumption that you were samurai. If I am wrong, then I humbly apologize.
Aiko smiles at the elf. It is I who should apologize to you for being so suspicious. Allow me to do so by buying you and your two friends a round of drinks.
The elf flashes a brief look of surprise, but raises his hands as if in protest. I am alone this night, samurai. I have no friends here.
The Minkan woman's eyes narrows, her smile vanishing. Then I must insist you drink with me. My personal conduct reflects on my family and my god; I will conscientiously maintain my reputation for the sake of theirs, even on the battlefield. Her last words are spoken, not in the Elven tongue, but that of her native Tian-Min.
Not missing a beat, the elf responds, also in Tian-Min: The strategy of war involves deception by nature, but the flag of peace is sacrosanct. I accept no negotiations from those who have attacked a foe under the pretense of arbitration or truce for their own gain; they have destroyed the trust that reconciliation requires. It is only when he finishes and sees her hardened expression that the elf realizes that he is caught.
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Tsadok continues to sit and drink with Aiko. He seems to be the one doing the most talking but in a way it doesn’t bother him and gives him some peace. He notices one of the people he was sent to get enter the inn. She seems to be in her own thoughts as she speaks to no one. He takes another sip of his brandy as he sees Aiko’s domineer change.
Aiko focuses her attention to a silver-haired elf, which draws Tsadok’s notice to the green tattoo over the elf’s eye. He continues to sit there not letting on that he understands what is being said. But at the mention of the term “Samurai”. However, when the elf points at Tsadok it cause a natural response. He sits up in his chair hands still grasping the brandy but his other hand drops from sight near Rocnork. Seeing that he has not even noticed anything going on, Tsadok tapes him on the leg.
With the Aiko saying two friends of the elf, it causes Tsadok to look about the room. Knowing that he has friends and more than likely have the same tattoo over the eye.
When Aiko speaks in a tongue that he no longer understands but it seems the elf does.
This is not going to go well now, he thinks. He glances around and finds nothing. Aiko must have had too much of the brandy.
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shi te shi ta
Tsadok
Tsadok continues to sit and drink with Aiko. He seems to be the one doing the most talking but in a way it doesn’t bother him and gives him some peace. He notices one of the people he was sent to get enter the inn. She seems to be in her own thoughts as she speaks to no one. He takes another sip of his brandy as he sees Aiko’s demeanor change.
Aiko focuses her attention to a silver-haired elf, which draws Tsadok’s notice to the green tattoo over the elf’s eye. He continues to sit there not letting on that he understands what is being said. Even at the mention of the term “Samurai”. However, when the elf points at Tsadok, it cause a natural response. He sits up in his chair one hand still grasping the brandy as the other hand drops from sight near Rocnork. Seeing that he has not even noticed anything going on, Tsadok taps him on the leg.
Aiko smiles at the elf. It is I who should apologize to you for being so suspicious. Allow me to do so by buying you and your two friends a round of drinks.
With Aiko saying two friends of the elf, it causes Tsadok to look about the room. Knowing that he has friends and more than likely have the same tattoo over the eye.
The elf flashes a brief look of surprise, but raises his hands as if in protest. I am alone this night, samurai. I have no friends here.
The Minkan woman's eyes narrows, her smile vanishing. Then I must insist you drink with me. Watashi no kojin-tekina kōdō wa, watashinokazoku to watashi no kami ni han'ei shi te imasu. Senjō demo, karera no tame ni seijitsu ni hyōban o iji shimasu. Her last words are spoken, not in the Elven tongue, but that of her native Tian-Min.
Not missing a beat, the elf responds: Sensō no senryaku wa shizen ni yoru azamuki o fukumu ga, heiwanohata wa seichidearu. Chūsai ya kyūsen no kōjitsu de teki o kōgeki shi ta mono wa, jibun no rieki no tame ni kōshō o ukeiremasen. Karera wa wakai ni hitsuyōna shinrai o hakai shi ta.
This is not going to go well now, he thinks. He glances around and finds nothing. Aiko must have had too much of the brandy.
Araki Aiko
The silver-haired elf is silent, his mind obviously racing through various scenarios to insure its survival.
The bard obviously could not tell you that.
The silver-haired elf's hand goes to reach beneath its cloak for the weapon it keeps there, but is stopped by Aiko's next question.
Which clan?
Nikumu.
Aiko nodded. The Nikumu, a name which translates from her own tongue to "Everhate", are regarded as peerless hunters, assassins with skills rivaling those of the dreaded Red Mantis cult. While conflict with the Nikumu is unavoidable, it will not be here in Ramblehouse.
No blood will be shed in this place, Nikumu. Not by you or I or our friends. She hopes that Tsadok and his companion will honor her wish, but understands if they choose not to. Her ways were not their ways. I have no wish to involve the Lady Larringfass in this.
Might be a bit late in that regard, Aiko. The plump halfling's words are accompanied by the familiar click of a loaded darkwood crossbow. She lines up the elf in her sight from where she stands, framed in the doorway leading to the kitchen, ready to fire off a shot should it become necessary.
If it is my life you seek, then I offer it on the field of battle. Away from this town. Away from this place. All that I ask in return is that, should I fall, for you to take with you my daisho and jisei back to Jinin.
The silver-haired elf seems intrigued. Speak your words.
Using the hand that has been gripping her sash, Aiko draws a symbol (死) in the air with her index finger before she continues speaking, switching from Tian-Min back to Elven.
Oh young one -
if you fear death,
die now!
Having died once
you won't die again.*
When she is done, the elf looks very thoughtful. He then places his hands together, open hand over closed fist, as he responds to the samurai in Elven. Clan Nikumu hears your jisei, your death poem. It shall be delivered, along with your daisho, when we leave these lands to return to our own.
Aiko bows, again her reddish-orange eyes never leaving his. All Beneath Heaven's Gaze is Beauty.
The elf grimaces as if pained by her words, then leaves the establishment, followed by two others.
When the three elves have gone, the Tian-Min woman visibly relaxes before turning back to face Rocnork and Tsadok. Truly, The Empress smiles upon us.
Up in Liesel-Marie's room, the three-foot long bat-winged serpent that hovers close to the Erutaki's sleeping form bares venom-filled fangs as it readies itself to strike at her exposed throat.
Return!
The telepathic call intrudes upon the seru's thoughts. It issues a low angry hiss. Though it wants to resist the issued command, it knows it cannot. The consequences for disobedience will jeopardize its nest-mates. The reluctant seru returns to the ceiling and slithers through the hole it had used earlier to gain entry.
On the street near Ivory Hall, the same command is heard by the serus sent to ambush Aodhàn and Kyt. Like their nest-mate, they also are loathe to break-off their attack. But the call is one that cannot be ignored. The two serpents spiral their way higher into the night sky before darting off, leaving their targets unaware of them ever having been present.
*
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Nyym catches the flask as he watches the one before him and the 2 serpent like creatures in the distance. But this female in front of him spoke as if he was one of her own. This caught Nyym slightly off gaurd..
It seems as though my past has arrived sooner then I had anticipated.
As he was about to respond, he noticed the 2 serpents start to withdraw away from Aohden and Kyt..
It would seem that there has been a change of plan. The others are withdrawing. I could not possibly change with so many witnesses about. It would draw to much attention. Attention I am sure you would agree is something we wish to avoid at this moment.
Nyym keeps emotions from his face and body as he spoke. Not wishing to aggravate an already delicate situation. She would either realize he was truly not one of hers or not. Nyyms hope was that he could if at all possible avoid a fight at this particular moment. He had intentionally not shifted his seat to keep his Hope Knife hidden from her veiw.
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Nyym catches the flask as he watches the one before him and the 2 serpent like creatures in the distance. But this female in front of him spoke as if he was one of her own. This caught Nyym slightly off gaurd..
It seems as though my past has arrived sooner then I had anticipated.
As he was about to respond, he noticed the 2 serpents start to withdraw away from Aodhàn and Kyt.
It would seem that there has been a change of plan. The others are withdrawing. I could not possibly change with so many witnesses about. It would draw to much attention. Attention I am sure you would agree is something we wish to avoid at this moment.
Nyym keeps emotions from his face and body as he spoke. Not wishing to activate an already delicate situation. She would either realize he was truly not one of hers or not. Nyyms hope was that he could if at all possible avoid a fight at this particular moment. He had intentionally not shifted his seat to keep his Hope Knife hidden from her view.
The silver-haired elf glances toward where the targets of the two seru stood, noting their retreat. Looking back at Nyym, she nods in agreement with his assessment of the situation. We will discuss your indiscretion once we meet back up at our rally point. I trust you do remember where that is? The female doesn't bother waiting for a response. It's 9 miles northwest of this town, near the Mindspin Mountains. Once we all meet back up there, the priestess and the champion will determine our next course of action to eliminate the human samurai. I'll try to put in a good word for you. But you are a male, so there will be some sort of penance extracted. Now get going. I'll make sure there are no other stragglers.
And with that said, the elf walks past the half-drow, her form fading from view as she moves.
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Nyym watches as she leaves and starts to breath a sigh of relief when suddenly, she vanished. No doubt she did so not only to avoid notice, but to watch his actions as well. With this in mind, Nyym gets up and moves into a nearby shadow to obscure his movement from the view of others. With a look around to make sure he is truly hidden from view of those around him. Nyym plays his part of the ruse and vanishes completely.
I hope this works.
But unlike the female drow, Nyym moves back toward Aohden and Kyt and waits till it's safe to show himself again.
As Nyym curcked back. His mind was filled with new questions.
Who is this Samurai and why are they hunting him or her. She had the same tattoo as I do. Was I also an Assassin?
Coming face to face with a possible connection to his past brought on more questions then they yielded any answers. But now 1st and formost..
I need to join back up with the rest of Team Ruby so we can figure out who Samurai is and how we are gonna deal with this new threat.
This new development complicated things dramatically. But he had a time and a location. Maybe they could handle this before heading off on their next mission. They would have to. It was not a good feeling being hunted while on a hunt of ur own. Nyym decided he would stay invisible till back at the Ramble House just to be on the safe side.
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Up in Liesel-Marie's room, the three-foot long bat-winged serpent that hovers close to the Erutaki's meditating form bares venom-filled fangs as it readies itself to strike at her exposed throat.
Return!
The telepathic call intrudes upon the seru's thoughts. It issues a low angry hiss. Though it wants to resist the issued command, it knows it cannot. The consequences for disobedience will jeopardize its nest-mates. The reluctant seru returns to the ceiling and slithers through the hole it had used earlier to gain entry.
On the street near Ivory Hall, the same command is heard by the serus sent to ambush Aodhàn and Kyt. Like their nest-mate, they also are loathe to break-off their attack. But the call is one that cannot be ignored. The two serpents spiral their way higher into the night sky before darting off, leaving their targets unaware of them ever having been present.
Nyym catches the flask as he watches the one before him and the two serpentlike creatures in the distance. But this female in front of him speaks as if he is one of her own. This catches Nyym slightly off-guard.
It seems as though my past has arrived sooner then I had anticipated.
As he is about to respond, he notices the two serpents start to withdraw away from Aodhàn and Kyt.
It would seem that there has been a change of plan. The others are withdrawing. I could not possibly change with so many witnesses about. It would draw to much attention. Attention I am sure you would agree is something we wish to avoid at this moment.
Nyym keeps emotions from his face and body as he spoke, not wishing to aggravate an already delicate situation. She will either realize he is truly not one of hers or not. Nyym's hope is that he could (if at all possible) avoid a fight at this particular moment. He has intentionally not shifted his seat in order to keep his hopeknife hidden from her view.
The silver-haired female elf glances toward where the targets of the two seru stood, noting their retreat. Looking back at Nyym, she nods in agreement with his assessment of the situation. We will discuss your indiscretion once we meet back up at our rally point. I trust you do remember where that is? The female doesn't bother waiting for a response. It's 9 miles northwest of this town, near the Mindspin Mountains. Once we all meet back up there, the priestess and the champion will determine our next course of action to eliminate the human samurai. I'll try to put in a good word for you. But you are a male, so there will be some sort of penance extracted. Now get going. I'll make sure there are no other stragglers.
And with that said, the elf walks past the half-drow, her form fading from view as she moves.
Nyym watches as she leaves and starts to breath a sigh of relief when suddenly, she vanished. No doubt she did so not only to avoid notice, but to watch his actions as well. With this in mind, Nyym gets up and moves into a nearby shadow to obscure his movement from the view of others. With a look around to make sure he is truly hidden from view of those around him. Nyym plays his part of the ruse and vanishes completely.
I hope this works.
But unlike the female drow, Nyym moves back toward Aodhàn and Kyt and waits till it's safe to show himself again.
As Nyym circles back, his mind is filled with new questions.
Who is this Samurai and why are they hunting him or her. She had the same tattoo as I do. Was I also an Assassin?
Coming face to face with a possible connection to his past brought on more questions then they yielded any answers. But now first and foremost.
I need to join back up with the rest of Team Ruby so we can figure out who Samurai is and how we are gonna deal with this new threat.
This new development complicates things dramatically. But he has a time and a location. Maybe they can handle this before heading off on their next mission. They will have to. It is not a good feeling to be hunted while on a hunt of your own. Nyym decides he will stay invisible till back at the Ramble House just to be on the safe side...
Within the fire, Liesel-Marie sees sparks flying. A moment later, she hears the all too familiar sound of a hammer striking the anvil, as though something is being forged. The Erutaki begins to recall a conversation that she once had with Sara, the half-orc proprietor of Morninghawk's Fine Steel and seat holder on the Council of Defenders.
When you forge a weapon, you need three things: the right metal, temperatures over fourteen hundred degrees... and someone who wants to kill. Here in Belkzen, all three exist. Beyond Trunau's walls is a heartless place. Ruled by many savage orc tribes. Constantly at war. Me, I'm just a blacksmith. Minding my own business. And biding my time. I never wanted to make tools for killing, but I made the sacrifice for the woman I love. I'm not excusing my decision. That's not my way. But I see a lot of myself in you. Someday, razkiv, you'll have to make a similar choice. Someday, you'll have to decide what kind of smith you want to be.
The ringing of metal striking metal begins to fade as the candle's flame descended lower and lower. When the candle gutters out, the bloodrager stands and stretches, unsure if she found any answers, and climbs into bed to sleep.
Aiko presents herself to Cham and bows at the waist in a 45-degree angle, with hands in front (one on top of the other) below her abdomen while keeping her eyes to the floor. I must apologize for what transpired tonight. I have unintentionally brought trouble to your house. I await whatever punishment you deem appropriate.
The Minkai woman does not move or say anything further.
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Cham is taken aback by Aiko's unusual demeanor and behavior, so much so that the usually glib halfling has no immediate response to the Minkai woman's words.
When Nyym returns to Ramblehouse, he finds the inn's normally homey atmosphere filled with tension. He catches a glimpse of Cham holding her signature darkwood crossbow so that the prod and tiller were down toward the floor. The half-drow also notices Aiko standing contritely before the halfling while Rocnork and Tsadok are seated together at a nearby table, watching the unfolding situation play out.
No harm done, Aiko. You de-escalated the situation quite admirably. If anything, I nearly made things worse. As she speaks, she removes the bolt, then releases the tension of the crossbow's prod. So there shall be no punishment. Now, see to our guests.
Cham slips the bolt into her belt before she shoulders the crossbow and heads back into the kitchen.
Aiko remains in her bow for a moment longer before straightening up and turning to face Rocnork and Tsadok. Her face looks serene as she uses her hands to press down any wrinkles in her robes, then smiles. Will you be requiring anything else?
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Yes, some answers.
Tsadok states after the events that has just unfolded.
Who were these elves that has such a great interest in you? And why? Samurai. He proposes those question to which he hopes she would explain without much precise questions.
These thoughts flood through Tsadok’s head as he listens to Aiko answer to his questions.
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Nyym was about to step into a not so visible area of Chams establishment when he heard Tsadok questions to the young woman in front of Cham. The name Samurai caught his attention immediately and drew his attention as the scout side of him kicked in.
She's Samurai? And Cham has her crossbow?
Nyym quickly took note that the room showed no sign of a fight. Nyym decided it best not to reveal himself just yet as he started scanning for more of the hidden reptiles or elves he had encountered outside. He also turned his hearing to hear anything that he could not see as he knew Liesel-Marie had gone to her room. He needed information before he decided his next course of action.
Yes, some answers.
Tsadok states after the events that has just unfolded.
Who were these elves that has such a great interest in you? And why? Samurai. He proposes those question to which he hopes she would explain without much precise questions.
These thoughts flood through Tsadok’s head as he listens to Aiko answer to his questions.
The interest isn't so much in me, but it does, however, concern me. The elves are members of Clan Nikumu. They are a notorious cult of deadly shinobi, trained in espionage and combat techniques.
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Nyym was about to step into a not so visible area of Chams establishment when he heard Tsadok questions to the young woman in front of Cham. The name Samurai caught his attention immediately and drew his attention as the scout side of him kicked in.
She's Samurai? And Cham has her crossbow?
Nyym quickly took note that the room showed no sign of a fight. Nyym decided it best not to reveal himself just yet as he started scanning for more of the hidden reptiles or elves he had encountered outside. He also turned his hearing to hear anything that he could not see as he knew Liesel-Marie had gone to her room. He needed information before he decided his next course of action.
[dice=perception] 1d20+12
Far from these lands is a city called Goka. Once a part of Imperial Lung Wa, it broke free when the empire collapsed and currently enjoys a golden age of trade and prosperity. Goka is a vital port city that rivals both Absalom and Katapesh in size and diversity, and serves as a gateway to Tian Xia for travelers from the west. However, Goka is most famous for hosting the Ruby Phoenix Tournament, and its numerous gambling houses. The tournament, held once every ten years, is hosted on an island off of its coast. The most recent one was held just four years prior in the year 7211, or, as those of your lands reckon it, 4711.
Infamous for its strange spectacles and exciting mix of fighting styles, the contest draws combatants and spectators from all over the world. The tournament takes place over a period of 5 days as the participants engage in numerous matches, exhibition fights as well as tests of skill with other contestants from around the world in order to become the Ruby Phoenix Champion. Once so named, the winner gets his choice of a single item from the legendary treasury of an ancient spellcaster and earns a reputation beyond imagining. A look of sadness touches the face of Aiko as she continues. But that year, not all who came to compete did so out of respect for the traditions of battle or even out of greed for the reward. There were, instead, those present that sought nothing so much as revenge and political domination. As the tournament progressed, a series of misfortunes began to befall the competition, sparking rumors of foul play - the poisoning of competitors, the sabotaging of intricate fight stages, and the kidnapping of the previous tournament’s winner. Throughout the tournament, others and myself sought clues to determine who was behind the sabotage. As it turned out, a tenuous alliance between the Golden League* crime syndicate of my lands, the Aspis Consortium** from your Inner Sea, and a pair that had been disqualified from the previous tournament was to blame. On the final day of the contest, the championship bout was against the Golden League’s champion, a hobgoblin bruiser, who the group hoped would win, propelling their gambling racket to new heights of profit. Their hopes were dashed as another would go on to defeat him. However, there was an attack, committed by the two from the previous tournament, hoping to wreak bloody vengeance on the Ruby Phoenix Tournament’s newest champions and the tournament itself.
When the excitement of the tournament had run its course, the champions found themselves to be celebrities in Goka, and even in other major Tian cities. One of the champions was a knight named Calrianne Blix. During the chaotic assault by the vengeful pair, she saved my life. When it came time for her to return once more to the lands of her birth, I pledged to travel by her side, until such an opportunity occurred where I could repay the debt I owed her. During our journey, she told me of her ancestor, a man named Fabian Blix and how he had been in charge of the spiritual needs of those that had been stationed at a place called Redlake Fort. During what would become the final siege of the fort, her ancestor died, but one of his sons escaped through a hidden sewer tunnel. After the events of the tournament, Calrianne had resolved to learn more about her ancestor.
But their newfound fame brought them enemies, and the champions had made more than a few in winning the tournament and foiling the plans of both the Golden League and the Aspis Consortium. They sent out agents to exact vengeance on their behalf. And though it took them some time to do so, they eventually came for Calrianne.
They ambushed us, using the cover of darkness. Not just nightfall, but magical spells of darkness, hoping to take advantage our inability to see in such conditions. At first, this served to hamper the champion's combat prowess, as Calrianne was unused to dealing with such tactics as practiced by those who had caught up to us. I gave what assistance I could, but in the end, their numbers proved to be far greater than just the two of us could account for.
I began to prepare myself for glory. Calrianne, however, had other ideas.
She called on me to fulfill my debt to her by carrying out the duty that she herself would no longer be able to perform. Knowing that I would protest, Calrianne recited a tenet of my warrior's code: I will honor the ancestors who have come before me and provided for my life. She then preceded to inform me that her ancestor Fabian had made it possible for me to be alive today and that I would be honoring him as well as her by doing as she asked. Her use of my warrior's code, while somewhat inappropriate, was clever. And she was not wholly wrong. With great reluctance, I left Calrianne to face off against the ones who had come to kill her.
I have spent the time since trying to learn more of this place called Redlake Fort. And while I possess a map, it would be foolish to attempt exploration on my own. It has been my hope that I could perhaps seek the aid of the heroes called Team Ruby, but they have been helping with the rebuilding of this town and that could take some time to finish. Time that, it would seem, I no longer have.
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Nyym was abit relieved that he did not hear the customary sounds of distruction that normally accompanied Liesel-Maries fights. He was still of the mind to check on her. But his information mode was full swing and locked back on what Samurai was saying. He still did not revert back visible just yet. Given how tence the situation currently is. The last thing he needed was to startle someone into a reflex reaction. But he also knew that he was gonna have to answer questions once they did see him. Questions that even he would be interested to know the answers to. Team Ruby was about to increase in size again. That he did not mind as they needed all the help they could get. That being said. Now knowing something of his past, or past attachments. Things may be abit tense for abit till these 3 fully trusted him. But he knew Liesel-Maries had his back should he ever be called into doubt. And Gods willing, they would get their hands on Fat Boy along the way. With that thought, Nyym looked back out towards Aohden and Kyt to see if they were making their way to the Long House yet. The more allies Nyym had present, the better he would feel right now.
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As Aiko is explaining her situation to Tsadok, the focus of her concern (as well as the grey-skinned half-orc), the members of Clan Nikumu, are vacating Trunau. As they gather beyond the town's walls, two of them engage in discussion about the night's events.
Xunus dos thalra l'samurai, Ildan? The female that Nyym encountered asks the one that met Aiko.
Usstan xunus, malla jabbress Nizana, came his response.
Belbau uns'aa dosst ssiggrins d'ilta.
There is a brief pause before Ildan responds, almost as if he is hesitant to do so. Il kluthak yornurn whol natha rivvil. Naut er'griff xunus l'samurai lgor doeb ussta dros'he whol tluin gaer, il zhahus izil ulu ragar l'byrren xuil uns'aa.
Nizana glares at the male, who is unable to meet her gaze. Vel'bol dkinoss zhahen dos izil ulu screa?
Y'sik taga jindurn ilta xuz gaer, il uriu yllui'th ulu jindurn udossa tarthe dal l'darla. Jal nindel il asks zhah nindel udos yutsu tu'ilta daisho lu'jisei ulu Jinin. The male finishes, his eyes lowered.
Lu'l'byrren... vel'bol d'l'ussen ul'kas Basilia Euol'gui? Orn nind tlu natha priqual?
The silver-haired male shakes his head. Usstan xun naut z'reninth nind orn unbuwun xuil udossta fuu'ux.
His answer causes the female to raise one of her delicate eyebrows. Bihurr.
L'samurai morfel biu xo'a ulu telanth xuil uss d'mina, l'uss ul'kas Liesel-Marie. Ol zhahus naut xunus. Gaer zhahen, rilu'oh, draa byrren naut abbilen xuil Basilia Euol'gui gaer. L'b'vecko kitrye-cretok lu'ukt abbil. L'samurai kluthak ulu inbal doera veir xuil l'mith uss. Ol zhah ussta zhadur nindel udos orn ssrig'luin ulu t'zaraw xuil nindyn draa.
Nizana nods. Belbau uns'aa ilta aphyon spekh.
Gi waelin uss - ka dos treemma aphyon, el nin! Inbalin tois h'uena dos wo naut el 'sohna.
The female's expression is without emotion as she listens to the recital of Aiko's jisei, her death poem. When Ildan is finished, she sneers. Lu'oh ves... eldalie.
Ildan says nothing as he waits to see what more Nizana has to say.
K'lararl l'xan'ss. Udos orn morfeth l'inth vel'drav udos yutsu. F'sarn zhaunus yathrin Miz'ri orn ssinssrin ulu belbau udossa natha dumoas p'los udos elgg l'samurai.
Ildan stands to, left hand striking his right chest. Siyo, malla Renor Drokk.
Nizana waves away the male absently, who immediately sets off to speak the other elves. Her mind is focused on another matter.
The kitrye-ilythiiri, the half-drow. He wears the Clan Nikumu insignia and yet does not recognize her. She, Nizana, the Black Fist of Akuma, is intrigued by the possibility he represents. Is he merely rothe, lost chattel, or worse, og'elend, a traitor to his people?
Priestess Miz'ri will have to be told, though Nizana is reluctant to do so. However, she understands that dealing with the kitrye-ilythiiri will require a different tact. Nizana turns back toward Trunau with a smile, and as she does, the effects of the magical disguise begins to wear off, revealing a shorter elven form with skin like polished obsidian and rose-hued eyes. Only her silver hair remains the same.
Usstan lor fau'lad ulu udossta huthin talthalra, lotha barra, she whispers before turning to race after her fellow drow.
Tsadok listens intently trying to follow the details of the clans where she is from.
These, Elves, have traveled to this land for you but not you. Is it the fact that you are the last to know of their treachery from the tournament? Tsadok posed the question.
But it does not make since for them to travel so far to kill one person. From their action then shows that honor does not mean as it does to you. There is something else…… He trails off as he looks at the Samurai.
This Team Ruby you speak of, I'm sure they will take up your mantle in this. The question is the half-breed, he bares the same mark as they do. Is he a spy, an exile, or just a fool? Answers would have to be given. Be I have seen them and been seen with you, so I will have to introduce myself to them. For knowing of them surely puts us on equal footing with them. Tsadok in so many words told Aiko that he will be at her side.
So let us discuss this Redlake Fort. Because I take it this is where you are to meet them in battle? And what should I look for to spot them in their treachery? He pauses before hitting he companion in the arm. You ready for another fight my winged friend? Using the word friend loosely, for the winged-one doesn’t seem to make friends well. Nor does Tsadok for that matter.
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Nyym having remained hidden to listen thought back on the words of this Samurai. Suddenly a location came to his mind from the task Halgra had already given the remaining members of Team Ruby.
Redlake Fort is where Team Ruby is supposed to sail from on our mission against the Giant and her hords of Orcs. This trip just got alot more interesting.
Nyym quickly did a mental calculation. The Female he had encountered had said they were meeting back up 9 miles NW of town close to the Mindspin Mountains to see if that was along they way to Redlake Fort.
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Nyym having remained hidden to listen thought back on the words of this Samurai. Suddenly a location came to his mind from the task Halgra had already given the remaining members of Team Ruby.
Redlake Fort is where Team Ruby is supposed to sail from on our mission against the Giant and her hords of Orcs. This trip just got alot more interesting.
Nyym quickly did a mental calculation. The Female he had encountered had said they were meeting back up 9 miles NW of town close to the Mindspin Mountains to see if that was along they way to Redlake Fort.
[dice=intelligence] 1d20+1
Tsadok listens intently trying to follow the details of the clans where she is from.
These, Elves, have traveled to this land for you but not you. Is it the fact that you are the last to know of their treachery from the tournament? Tsadok posed the question.
That would seem to make the most sense to me.
But it does not make since for them to travel so far to kill one person. From their action then shows that honor does not mean as it does to you. There is something else…… He trails off as he looks at the Samurai.
Aiko shakes her head at this. Honor is what drives them to travel as they have. While it is true that my honor and theirs are not the same, do not mistake that difference as a lack on the part the Xun and Clan Nikumu.
This Team Ruby you speak of, I'm sure they will take up your mantle in this. The question is the half-breed, he bares the same mark as they do. Is he a spy, an exile, or just a fool? Answers would have to be given. Be I have seen them and been seen with you, so I will have to introduce myself to them. For knowing of them surely puts us on equal footing with them. Tsadok in so many words told Aiko that he will be at her side.
The Minkai woman's reddish-orange eyes narrow at the mention of the mark on Nyym. A mark you say... Her words trail off as she ponders this for a moment before resuming. He has the trust of his companions, while we do not. A matter such as this must be handled delicately. As for your offer of assistance, it is greatly appreciated. I had no wish to draw others into this matter beyond the search for the fort.
So let us discuss this Redlake Fort. Because I take it this is where you are to meet them in battle? And what should I look for to spot them in their treachery? He pauses before hitting he companion in the arm. You ready for another fight my winged friend? Using the word friend loosely, for the winged-one doesn’t seem to make friends well. Nor does Tsadok for that matter.
I have no wish to draw them to that place. I would prefer to find where they have established their lair and hit them there. I'm sure it will be someplace underground. It will probably go down something like this: They will patrol their caverns in darkness, using stealth and their superior visual prowess. When enemies come near, they'll fan out and hide. When we wander into their midst, one in the patrol will attempt to illuminate us, whereupon the rest will attack with surprise, using their poisoned crossbows. Between the subterranean darkness and the poison, we would be at a disadvantage, while the Nikumu will have the advantage.
And that's not even taking into consideration any elite warriors that will be with them. The elite are disciplined and will serve as a rearguard to allow any others to escape. They will not stop fighting as long as they have allies fighting alongside them. If they have no allies and are seriously wounded, they’ll disengage and retreat, except for the last, who will fight to the death. Our biggest concern, however, will be the priestess. She’ll place more emphasis on casting spells so that the rest can do the melee fighting against restrained opponents without having to engage in melee herself.
Aiko gives both Tsadok and Rocnork the opportunity to allow her words to settle. She wants them to understand what it is exactly they will be getting themselves into with regard to her situation with Clan Nikumu should they accompany her.
Three is better than one, but the Minkai warrior knows that more will increase the overall likelihood of dealing with this matter successfully. And that will mean involving the members of Team Ruby.
But Tsadok's concern regarding the one called Nyym is a valid one. It will have to be dealt with.
In the morning then, she thinks to herself. We will settle this in the morning.
Aiko then speaks aloud, Let us talk further about this in the morning with Team Ruby and see what they will do. Once that is known, then we can make better plans.
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Tsadok follows the words spoken by Aiko. Knowing that it would be a hard fought battle inside a dark confined space. Then it sinks in,
Are these dark elves, that you are referring to?
Tsadok finishes of the rest of his brandy. Yes. A good nights sleep would be good. For I see it may be the last for awhile.
And with that Tsadok will bid Aiko a goodnight after the conversation finishes.
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Nyym had been listening to thier exchange intently. At the mention that the elves that had been here did not dark elves. He thought back to the female he had uncounted and the potion she had tossed him.
A disguise potion?
Clever. With that they could move about practically unnoticed. Nyym then thought back to her words of a good word. That could only mean she was a ranking member. How so he was not sure. But there was obviously someone else pulling the strings. He had unconsciously eased into an empty seat in a dark corner as he listened. Again, more questions then answers. But Nyym could not remember past his recovery after being discovered by Silver Mane.
With the darkness eveloping the corner, he sat in thought. They were here for here. But having bare the mark of there house or clan. Nyym was sure that they would now be looking for him as well. Would they try to turn him? Torture him as a traitor if they caught him? That thought sent a shiver though him. Would he be offered a choice? Douptful. As he faded back into view in the corner. He looked into a nearby looking glass at the mark he bore. Raising his hand to gently touch it. Tracing out its outline slightly.
Just who was I before and how did I end up in the employ of the man that would be thier doom? I wish I could remember something. Regardless. I will have some answers in time. But my choice is clear. I will not dishonor those that took me in and nursed me and the others back to health. I will stand with Trunau and Team Ruby.
Nyym rubbed his mark again..
This mark and those that bear it other then myself do not define me. My actions and my word does. They are not me and I am not them. If I ever were, then that to died with my memory.
This was his home and these were his people. This was his vow. This was his decision. As he though this. Nyym had pulled his new Hope Knife from its sheath and read over its inscription. He had earned this though his actions.
I am with Trunau for Trunau is with me. My home, my people, my honor. He looked towards where he had last seen Samurai. She works for Cham. She is living here. That's enough for me. I will stand with her.
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Nymm continues to watch and listen as both Aiko and Tsadok discuss the strange elves of Clan Nikumu from his seat in a dimly-lit corner of the room.
They refer to themselves as ilythiiri, the Minkai woman says in response to the half-orc's query, but yes, they are typically referred to as dark elves. The elves of Jinin refer to them as dhaerow, which means "face of shadow" or "traitor". That word has been corrupted into "drow" by those unable to handle the nuances of the Elven language.
Their skin ranges from coal black to a dusky purple. Their hair is typically white or silver, though some variation is not unknown. But, as you've seen tonight, the dhaerow are quite capable of disguising these features when the need arises for them to do so.
Aiko continues: And if their usual appearance isn't enough to set them apart from their kin, they also possess special inborn abilities. All elves have some resistance to magic capable of bending one's will, and the dhaerow are no exception. However, they have also demonstrated an extraordinary ability to avoid being affected by spells as well. The dhaerow are also capable of casting a limited number of base spell effects, typically producing a dim light that can manifest as a glowing figure or will-o-wisp-like balls, shrouding an area so that it is impenetrable to normal sight, and a glow lining around targets in a selected area.
As for the cha'quess, the half-elf, I do not know if he possesses any of their inborn gifts. It may be that the strength of his heritage goes beyond mere appearance and is sufficient enough for him to exhibit them to some degree. In which case it is all the more imperative that we approach the others carefully when it comes to him. A fully dhaerow opponent can use them to devastating effect. Assuming that he is similarly gifted, I have no wish to discover how well he can use them should we make an enemy of him and his allies.
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Tsadok turns his head to look at Nym sitting at a nearby table. Well I guess he's heard most of the conversation, now we will know which side he stands with.
Seems he possesses some essence of the dhaerow.
Aiko sighs heavily as she turns to look where Tsadok was now facing. Now is not the time for this, she says. If a confrontation is to be had, then let it be before those he calls allies. That way it can be dealt with openly rather than behind their backs.
The Minkai warrior's eyes never leave those of Nyym as she continues to speak. 'As I Would Think, so Shall You; As I Would Feel, so Shall You; As I Would Do, so Shall You; As I Would Not Harm, Nor Shall You; As I Would, so Shall the Clan; As the Clan Would, so Shall I; As We Would, so Shall You. The People are as One, and Never Shall I Stray From This, Nor Shall You, For to Digress is to Diminish You and Your People'. I have already made it clear that there will be no blood shed here. Not by me, not by the dhaerow. Not by anyone. Upon this, I must insist.
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Nyym deep in thought as he stared at the inscription on his new Hope Knife. Apon hearing that he has certain abilities, he casually looked upto see that he had indeed been spotted. Slowly so as to not seem threating back into its sheath. Turning towards Aiko.. with a nod in her direction. Then turning back towards Tsadoc.
I have no wish for conflict here in Chams Longhouse. It has already seen to much with the attempted assassination of Lady Ruby. While Cham has indeed had her issues with me. This is her place and I would not dishonor her with conflict. You are correct in that I have abilities of those who wish combat with Aiko. I know you have questions. But I must tell you that I have no memory of my life before being nursed back to health by the people of Trunau. But I do have this.
Nyym pulls out the bottle that the female had handed to him..
The female I encountered outside mistaken me for one of her own and chastised me for not being disguised. She handed me this bottle. I believe I am correct to assume this is how they hid from plain site. The people of Trunau would not be none the wise in the day of morning and celebration of the lives we lost when the Orcs came. They are meeting
9 miles northwest of this town, near the Mindspin Mountains.
Turning to Aiko..
Your journey is taking to Redlake Fort. We of Team Ruby have also been tasked with going there. Though obviously not for the same reason as urself. I see no reason why we can not travel together. I will speak with Liesel-Maries when she wakes. May be better to have more in numbers as it will not take long for her to figure out I am indeed not one of them. I am sure they would wish another encounter with me as well. As far as I am concerned, you are a resident of Trunau as you work here with Cham. She trusts you and thats enough for me. You do not know me so I will understand if the 3 of you are not so trusting of me. I do bear thier mark after all. Were I one of them, i could have already struck, but you are not my enemy and i do not wish you as my enemies. You could also think I am a spy simply put here to locate you. Again I would not blame you. Feel free to ask any member of Team Ruby of me of you wish. Even ask the people of Trunau. I am sure they will be happy to talk of my deeds and those of the rest of Team Ruby. As to the time and place the dhaerow. Where it up to me, I would not meet them at this time and place. Knowing now that I am not one of them, they could very easily be laying in wait and using me as bait. Better to fight on our terms. Not thiers. I have given you both reasons to not trust me and avenues in which you may learn of I can be trusted. I leave the choice to you.
Nyym thought for a moment and then without hesitation..
As I Would Think, so Shall You; As I Would Feel, so Shall You; As I Would Do, so Shall You; As I Would Not Harm, Nor Shall You; As I Would, so Shall the Clan; As the Clan Would, so Shall I; As We Would, so Shall You. The People are as One, and Never Shall I Stray From This. This Oath I give to you.
With those last words, Nyym leans against the back of the chair with both hands clasp together and visible resting on the table. He shows no expectation of conflict as he rests easy in his chair. While he had wished others of Team Ruby were present, Nyym did not feel threatened at all. He also wished to avoid the wrath of Cham should anything had went down. Having faced her sharp tongue already. It was not an experience he wished to repeat.
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The nameless dark-haired girl crouches on the tundra, intently watching the herd far away. In the middle distance, she knows they are there, the men and boys, the ones that refused to let "a girl" participate in their hunt. The boys know she is a better shot and a stronger warrior than any of them, but they tell their fathers and the other hunters that it wasn't her that brought down the reindeer. One of the boys did it, 'the girl' just dressed the kill because that's woman's work. That's what they say.
They left her in the village, but today, today she is going to prove something. She is going to be a hunter for the village and the men will see. They will know. So today she hunts - she hunts the herd and she hunts the hunters.
Her father says she should keep her name, it is a good name, but boys her age that feel they are men or soon to be, they cast off their childhood names and they pronounce themselves nameless. They will have a spirit quest or a vision or a dream and in that experience, they will find their truename. The boys laughed when she said she was now nameless. She was better than any of the boys now proudly nameless and so she cast off her name.
As she watches the hunted and the hunters, she can hear her father's voice as he chuckles, "My darling daughter, I am proud of you. I am not proud of you because you will bear me many grandchildren. I am sure that is not the road you will travel. I am proud of you because of your spirit and your fire. There are tales of my ancestors that had literal fire within them, that were able to call forth the flames to protect themselves and to aid their family. I can feel that in you, see that in you. One day, you will find that fire." She closes her eyes and feels his massive rough hands on her shoulders once more as he turns her to face him. "Do not let the fire consume you. Take your time, learn to control the fire. Then you can use it, when you control it. Not before. Do not be in a hurry to show your strength. It matters not what others think. If they find you to be not a concern because you are a woman, so much the better. You will find them easy to control because they underestimate you. Take your time, learn to control your strength. Then you can use it, when you control it. Not before. Remember these things, for me, for our ancestors."
She opens her eyes. The herd has gotten closer. The hunters crouch, using a slight depression in the land to hide their presence. The wind blows the scent of the herd to the hunters and beyond, to the nameless girl.
Suddenly, she knows that she is not alone. Turning her head ever so slightly, she sees to her right another figure, a wolf stalking the herd. Another hunter. A hunter never alone. Where there is one, there will be more. It doesn't see her, not yet, but surely it picked up her scent, surely it is looking.
She looks around - there they are, further back. She should be frightened, one girl alone on the tundra against a score or more wolves. There's no way the hunters can get here in time to help her. But she feels no fear, none at all. What she feels is anger, frustration at the injustice of the timing. It has been a poor year and they are late in the season. The village needs this hunt, needs it to be a good hunt. She needs this hunt, needs to make her name with those that think her just a girl. Her frustration builds as she stares at the wolf. She's not prepared for this fight. She has her spearchucker, carved by her own hand, and spears, but those are for the herd. They will avail her little against a large wolf. And a skinning knife. Nothing more. The frustration becomes anger, becomes rage, a rage that threatens to overwhelm her, cause her to not think, only act.
But that's not what her father wants. It's exactly what he fears. So she stares at the wolf, feeling that rage, feeling the heat like a fire, dangerous and unstable, and she reaches out to it. She imagines pulling the extra fuel from the flames, to the edge of the fire ring where their lesser flames sputter and die, until what's left in the middle are coals. Hot, manageable coals. Now they are a tool to cook with, to warm a tent with. Or to burn the unwary with. In her mind, she reaches out to pick up one of the coals - it doesn't burn her hand, it feels warm and comforting, calling to her - and she's back on the tundra, feeling that warmth in her hand, and she raises from her crouch to one knee and throws it at the wolf. Flames splash against his flank, and he yelps, unaware of her until that moment, until the pain of the fire. The herd doesn't hear - they are upwind and far away, but one of the boy hunters turns to see the girl facing off with this angered wolf. She reaches into the coals in her mind, but changes her mind and pulls a firebrand from the side of the fire ring, its tip still a white-hot coal. She stirs the coals with it once, and then holds it before her.
It crackles and burns in her hand. What the wolf sees, what the boy sees, is a club of fire. She holds it in both hands. She swings it at the wolf though he's clearly too far away. It's a warning from her to him. The fire in her hand crackles and burns and seems eager to burn the wolf. She feels the hunger, encourages it. The wolf feels it, fears it. The wild animal wants no part of fire. His instincts tell him to run from fire, return when the ground has recovered and become green again, return when the hunting is better as the birds and the hares and the foxes come back to reclaim their nests and burrows. His yellow eyes stare at the girl and her fire and his lip curls in a snarl, but he makes no sound. Even a wolf knows there is nothing gained in threatening a wildfire. He turns, not taking his eyes from the fire, and moves toward his fellows. Soon, he is running, fleeing a wildfire as surely as if it had spread from one horizon to the other. Instincts have kept him and his pack and their ancestors hunting these steppes for hundreds of years. Instincts are respected, not questioned. The other wolves, seeing his flight, do not question why, they follow. Something that causes one to run is enough to cause all to run. They will live to hunt another day by avoiding this threat.
The girl stands, fire in her hand, watching them go. Her rage has not cooled, but she controls it, owns it, and when it is time, she quenches it and the fire disappears from her hands. She stares at her hands, amazed that neither is blistered or charred. No sign of the fire remains.
She turns toward the hunt, afraid that the wolves have ruined everything. Three hunters, a man and two boys, rush toward her, but stop when they see that she is fine, that no wolf feasts on her. The man is angry, the boys bemused. The man points toward the village. He doesn't even come close enough to argue. He stops, and he points. Beyond the three, the girl with no name sees the herd, untroubled by her or the wolves, and knows that the other hunters wait. And it will be a good hunt without her.
Head held high, the girl turns toward the village. She does not acknowledge the hunter. She leaves not because of his anger. She found something today much more important than the respect of the hunters. She no longer cares that the boys lie about her prowess or that they think she is 'just a girl'. She knows the truth, and that is enough.
Liesel-Marie's eyes suddenly open in dimly-lit room. It takes a moment to realize she is not in her father's tent, not in a bedroll under some long-forgotten tree in a forest she does not recall. She is home, in the city of Trunau, in Cham's, in her room. What has awakened her, she cannot say. What dreams she has dreamt, she cannot recall. But she remembers pride and satisfaction. She ponders for a moment why her first reaction to waking was that she was not in her father's tent. Since arriving in Truau and being found by Silvermane, she cannot recall a time when she thought of a father. She had often wondered if she had been an orphan, unclaimed and turned out by a primitive community that could not support her. Her lineage is clear enough in her face, but her history - her family, her birthplace, her childhood - remain clouded in the mists of memory for her.
She can feel that it was a good dream. The night is quiet, the orcs have been routed, and the Erutaki warrior resolves to see if that dream can be recaptured. Soon, she is asleep once more.
Nyym deep in thought as he stared at the inscription on his new Hope Knife. Apon hearing that he has certain abilities, he casually looked upto see that he had indeed been spotted. Slowly so as to not seem threating back into its sheath. Turning towards Aiko.. with a nod in her direction. Then turning back towards Tsadoc.
I have no wish for conflict here in Chams Longhouse. It has already seen to much with the attempted assassination of Lady Ruby. While Cham has indeed had her issues with me. This is her place and I would not dishonor her with conflict. You are correct in that I have abilities of those who wish combat with Aiko. I know you have questions. But I must tell you that I have no memory of my life before being nursed back to health by the people of Trunau. But I do have this.
Nyym pulls out the bottle that the female had handed to him..
The female I encountered outside mistaken me for one of her own and chastised me for not being disguised. She handed me this bottle. I believe I am correct to assume this is how they hid from plain site. The people of Trunau would not be none the wise in the day of morning and celebration of the lives we lost when the Orcs came. They are meeting
9 miles northwest of this town, near the Mindspin Mountains.Turning to Aiko..
Your journey is taking to Redlake Fort. We of Team Ruby have also been tasked with going there. Though obviously not for the same reason as urself. I see no reason why we can not travel together. I will speak with Liesel-Maries when she wakes. May be better to have more in numbers as it will not take long for her to figure out I am indeed not one of them. I am sure they would wish another encounter with me as well. As far as I am concerned, you are a resident of Trunau as you work here with Cham. She trusts you and thats enough for me. You do not know me so I will understand if the 3 of you are not so trusting of me. I do bear thier mark after all. Were I one of them, i could have already struck, but you are not my enemy and i do not wish you as my enemies. You could also think I am a spy simply put here to locate you. Again I would not blame you. Feel free to ask any member of Team Ruby of me of you wish. Even ask the people of Trunau. I am sure they will be happy to talk of my deeds and those of the rest of Team Ruby. As to the time and place the dhaerow. Where it up to me, I would not meet them at this time and place. Knowing now that I am not one of them, they could very easily be laying in wait and using me as bait. Better to fight on our terms. Not thiers. I have given you both reasons to not trust me and avenues in which you may learn of I can be trusted. I leave the choice to you.
Nyym thought for a moment and then without hesitation..
As I Would Think, so Shall You; As I Would Feel, so Shall You; As I Would Do, so Shall You; As I Would Not Harm, Nor Shall You; As I Would, so Shall the Clan; As the Clan Would, so Shall I; As We Would, so Shall You. The People are as One, and Never Shall I Stray From This. This Oath I give to you.
With those last words, Nyym leans against the back of the chair with both hands clasp together and visible resting on the table. He shows no expectation of conflict as he rests easy in his chair. While he had wished others of Team Ruby were present, Nyym did not feel threatened at all. He also wished to avoid the wrath of Cham should anything had went down. Having faced her sharp tongue already. It was not an experience he wished to repeat.
Then we shall discuss our business concerning the fort in the morning, and it shall be done in good faith. At this she turns to regard both Tsadok and Rocnork intently, in an attempt to forestall any protests that either could put forth.
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Tsadok listens to the words from the one called Nyym. And remembering the words spoken of this Team Ruby, Tsadok believes the words being spoken.
Then it seems a long conversation is forthcoming, perhaps it would be better to have rested heads for that to take place. A question to be asked, what happens when his memory returns… His thoughts trails off as he gets up to retire to his room for the night.
Till morning….
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Nyym nodded his head in a gesture of agreement as he spoke.
Till morning then.
Nyym was grateful that this matter was approached in a non violent manner. Cool heads win the night. Nyym couldn't help letting his mind drift to questions of his past. Just what exactly led me to be in the employment of the man that would be his end. Little did Tsadoc know. But Nyym was also wondering the sme thing. What happens should his memory return. Just how much farther does this go. Who else will turn up. Will they be friend or foe. Will his past become to dangerous for him to remain in his new home of Trunau. Nyym could not and would not endanger others with his past. But he also knew that he had no wish to return to his old ways. He had a second chance in life and he was determined not to waste it. With that thought in mind. He rose with the others and like them, he headed to his room to try and sleep. He also still had not spoken to Brinia. He had turned Rodricks Hope Knife over to Halgra for the ceremony. With everything that had taken place. Nyym knew he may not even get the chance to speak with her now that things were starting to spiral in several unexpected directions at once.
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Though she does her best to not let it show, a sense of relief washes over Aiko. Had it come to something other than a verbal altercation between Nyym and Tsadok, she would have dealt with both as the situation demanded.
For now, however, the matter has been postponed to allow the involvement everyone close to the situation. The cha'quess Nyym and his companions in Team Ruby, Tsadok, Rocnork, and herself will all gather in the morning to see where things will stand between them.
Enrico Deiana - FF7 CC: The Price of Freedom Music Remake
And even as one potential crisis is temporarily averted, elsewhere in Trunau, other events are transpiring.
Liesel-Marie settles back into slumber after awaking momentarily from a dream...
Kytynna escorts Aodhàn back to Sanctuary where they will spend the night before setting out on their respective journeys...
Mesa plays a tune on her shamisen for some of the locals under the watchful gaze of Nogusta...
Rohan stands before the town's main gate (whose towers' sides and roofs glisten in the moonlight due to the shields and breastplates of defeated orcs that adorn them), waiting for it to open so that he can begin his westward trek toward the Mindspin Mountains...
And at the Trunau Countinghouse, bodies of priests lay scattered throughout the building in various states of unconsciousness as a silent shadowy being swiftly makes its way to where Melira, its mistress, is being held captive...
The early morning finds Aiko greeting the sun in her customary fashion, performing what appears to be a detailed choreographed pattern of movements with a pair of weapons: one a curved, single-edged blade with a circular guard and long grip, the other a shorter double-edged sword.
As always, the goal is a simple one - to internalize the movements and techniques so that they can be executed and adapted under different circumstances, without thought or hesitation. This is the essence of the first precept that is the warrior's code: “One Body, One Soul,” a directive to strive to align her intentions with her actions. She knows that her sword and swordplay, entrusted to her by those who have mastered their craft, deserve to be wielded by a skilled hand. And though her movements (at least in her eyes) are uneven and difficult compared to those performed by her instructors, to those watching, her movements display a smooth simpleness that no novice could possess.
When she is done, Aiko returns to her room not only to wash away the sweat from her practice, but to prepare herself for the encounter to come. She begins by slipping her swords through the layered belt-sash around her waist, first with the shorter weapon, then the larger blade, both on her left side, cutting-edge down* (at least for the longer sword).
She is mindful of the second precept of the Ichimeio, the warrior's code: “Honor Is All,” for without honor, a warrior is nothing more than a savage with technique.
It is this that governs her actions now. She is placing her trust in the cha'quess Nyym with the hope that he is nothing like the dhaerow of Clan Nikumu whose mark he supposedly bears. But while that might be her wish, Aiko is prepared for the possibility that he is, in fact, as deceitful as his full-blooded his kin.
And if that proves to be the case, then she will not hesitate to strike him down.
Aiko places her left hand on the tsuka, the handle, of her long sword and opens the door with the right. As she exits her room and makes her way toward the top of the stairs, the warrior pauses only a moment to allow herself a smile before taking the first step down.
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Liesel-Marie rises with the sun. After some basic exercises and stretching, she gathers up her gear and heads for breakfast. She sees the foreign woman descending the stairs ahead of her. She hasn't met her yet, but she has always seemed nice enough.