Riftun is positively overjoyed at all of the applause and especially takes note of Yuto's kind declaration of support for his request to allow Zaiobe to accompany the caravan. He also takes not of the mysterious half-elf man who raises a mug in support of the bard as well. Riftun offers the man a sweet and grateful smile before he hears Teruko and Torra call out to him above the din of the crowd.
Immediately Riftun's eyes go wide and his face flushes bright red as his companions call attention to his contributions to the group effort of the excursion into Brinewall. Sagacious Scholar? I-I get my own name? B-But I didn't really do... The bard rubs the back of his head and laughs awkwardly at the sudden call-out and waves off the compliments. His allies were really far too kind.
The red-headed bard is practically knocked out of his seat by Ragnhildr pats him heartily on the shoulder. The young man flails his arms and let's out a quick startled gasp before he manages to stabilize himself and turns to face the Ulfen woman with a shy smile. "O-Oh thank you very much! I-I just really have a passion for storytelling, I think it has a way of giving our actions meaning... But I-I'm sorry to say I have no formal training, my parents never al-... Anyways I was able to perform many times for the patrons of the Rusty Dragon in Sandpoint thanks to Ameiko!
The younger woman runs a hand through her hair, settling back on her heels. "Well. I will keep an eye on her for as long as I can. I make no promises as to whether I will be able to stop her from doing something malevolent, however."
Sandru continues his rounds in amidst the caravan. He's in deeper conversation with Aspexia at the moment.
Shalelu approaches Torra, her footsteps barely audible on the dry grass. "It sounds like you had quite the adventure. Do you think that bringing this Zaiobe into the caravan is a good idea?" She asks quietly.
Ragnhildr chuckles. "Well, you should look into it if ever you head to the Kingdoms. I know a couple who'd be happy to take on an apprentice."
She deflates as she says this, resisting the urge to run a hand through her own hair. It was clean enough. As clean as it was going to get anyway. Combing it with her fingers would make no difference. "I don't like her. I don't trust her. But I worried if I put my foot down, if I tried to forbid her from the caravan and insist we go our separate ways now, that Riftun would go with her. I know you never met him, but he was one of Ameiko's best friends for years. She was devastated when he left. If...when, she wakes up, I didn't want to have to tell her I found him only to immediately chase him away." She blinks and is startled to find a tear escaping. She hastily brushes it away and readopts a more neutral manner. "You're right that I'm acting more confident about her than I feel, but I have not lied. I don't believe she'll hurt anyone at the caravan while she's with us. She'd have nothing to gain and everything to lose from that. If I believed otherwise I wouldn't have gone along with this, Riftun or no Riftun. What happens afterwards...I don't know. Maybe Ameiko can talk some sense into him once she's awake. Or maybe Zaiobe will prove herself, and I'll have nothing to worry about. Either way at least I'll know I tried."
Riftun chuckles awkwardly, "Yeah right, well about that ummm... I d-don't really plan on returning to the homeland a-anytime soon but I shall definitely keep it in mind should I ever somehow end up back there miss... I-I'm sorry I don't think I got your name?"
The bard falters a little here clutching his stomach weakly. Hopefully this would all be resolved soon so he could try to find something to eat and take a bath.
Discarding two of the consumed thighs, Yuto starts to eat the third one smiling as he sees Riftun happy about the reception of his song and about Zaiobe.
Turning to right and left, he finds himself among no one really known, and when he is looking for a escape to go to rest, he stumbles with Andochtuir. Feeling it would be not respectful to say nothing, he forces himself to talk while scratching the back of his head "Th-thanks for offering yourself to help... a-and for taking care of Ameiko..." the young man looks around not knowing exactly what to talk about with the half-elf stranger "Sa-sandru said you are from Kyonin..."
At Shalelu's question, Torra thinks for a moment, then nods. "She is really good with the bow, and can fly! She would be great at scouting, I think, or hunting for food. I... I didn't actually talk to her that much, that was Riftun, but she did help us in the castle."
Seeing the four heroes each engage in their own discussions, Andochtuir approaches Losk instead. He was, after all, a stranger to most of them, and after the harrowing events of the day, they probably desired some privacy.
"Say, Losk? First, my sincere compliments on the chicken and vegetable stew just now. Could I perchance offer my assistance in helping with the meal's cleaning? Oh, and if you have a moment later, I was wondering if you'd be willing to offer a second opinion on these potions I made? While I'm reasonably sure they'd work, I believe you have more experience in this field than I do. But, well, I'd hate to fail our esteemed heroes tomorrow at a critical moment." The half-elf gives a polite smile as he begins helping with the cleanup.
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"I didn't say you lied. Only that you didn't tell the truth." She says, finally, shrugging, before she looks at Riftun. "He is not enchanted, so far as I can tell. That being the case, he is truly innocent and genuinely believes that he can make her into a hero."
"If there is one thing I have learned in my years in Westcrown, it is that no one can make someone else into a hero in truth. Repentance can only come from within. Others may inspire it, but ultimately, it takes a specific sort of courage to change oneself." She looks away from her sister, almost talking to herself, now.
After a moment, she snaps her eyes back up to Teruko, before glancing away again. "Do you think he is truly so foolish as to abandon safety for danger? Didn't he mention something about his friend in Brinewall?"
Ragnhildr laughs again. "Sorry, sorry. I forgot my manners. I'm Ragnhildr. I've been traveling these roads for a good few years. Pleased to meet you." She looks at Riftun carefully, her brow furrowing. "What brought-"
Losk looks up at Andochtuir with a wry grin. "Oh? Thanks f'r your kind words, an' sure thing, kid. Just, erm, keep in mind that my own concoctions're, hrm... a bit powerful." He mimes swaying a little. "'Course, they taste a far sight better'n anyone else's that I've found." The dwarf pauses. "But I think Yuto's trying to get your attention."
"Well, that's the thing! You could do anything really but if you're asking for my opinion and what I've seen of your talents..." The young man hums with a thoughtful inflection. "You could make a great caravan guard or even a scout! I-I can see it now, you flying high above the caravan, the sun overhead, casting your fearsome shadow over any bandit or worg that would seek us harm."
Riftun giggles. "I'd bet they'd go running with their tails between their legs."
"Of course, that's only if you would like to. A-And I'd love if you could accompany us back to the keep, though of course I understand if it might be hard for you to return there."
Riftun now looks rather befuddled as he tries to keep up with two conversations at once. His cheeks go a bit flush with embarrassment as his eyes dart around in confused shame unsure of where to look. "I-I'm sorry miss Ragnhildr... I-It is a pleasure to meet you and you may not understand this but... I'm trying to keep up two conversations at once... Would you mind repeating that last bit?"
Losk looks up at Andochtuir with a wry grin. "Oh? Thanks f'r your kind words, an' sure thing, kid. Just, erm, keep in mind that my own concoctions're, hrm... a bit powerful." He mimes swaying a little. "'Course, they taste a far sight better'n anyone else's that I've found." The dwarf pauses. "But I think Yuto's trying to get your attention."
"Hah! Indeed? It seems the old adage of dwarves having their prioties straight can always be counted on," Andochtuir says, letting out an amused snort over not being entirely sure if Losk was talking about super-potent alcohol, mixtures, explosives, or all of them. You never knew with those in their profession, but he'd gamble on the prior two in this case.
Momentarily absorbed in washing the dishes, he doesn't notice Yuto behind him until Losk explicitely points it out.
"Th-thanks for offering yourself to help... a-and for taking care of Ameiko..." the young man looks around not knowing exactly what to talk about with the half-elf stranger "Sa-sandru said you are from Kyonin..."
The half-elf quickly turns around and gives a friendly smile to the Samurai, somewhat relieved by the attempt at conversation. Frankly he'd been a bit worried that his appearance, with the battle damaged plate mail, decent collection of scars and even more vicious weapons, would deter his fellow warrior, but fortunately not! He definitely wasn't as meek as he sounded.
"And he'd be speaking the truth! Yes, I'm originally from Kyonin. Greengold, actually. It's a nice town, also the only entrypoint for an outsider to the land of elves. Most of them consider it an experiment of sorts, or a very large store to sell elven magic. Fortunately for me, I suppose, some see it as more, and it's also where the local, ah, 'blood mixology' tends to happen. As to how I found myself here: I am just a very stubborn physician scouring the world for clues on how to treat something that might not be treatable."
He looks up from the scrubbing of the pans and briefly washes one hand with fresh water before extending it to him. "I suppose we didn't get a chance to shake hands informally, so allow me to amend that. I have to say, I'm also curious as to how you ended up in Sandpoint, as a... foster son to madam Koya, I believe? Unless I'm mistaken, you don't seem to be from the local human races. Though, glancing at our company that is perhaps less of a rarity than one might expect..."
Yuto smiles, a bit more relaxed after Andochtuir refers to his friends "Ah, y-yes, I-I read Queen Telandia Edasseril has been very open mi-minded settling Greengold to get a stronger understanding with outside ra-races, which allowed some elves to cross blood with humans, giving birth to the ones like..." the prematurely grizzled young man shakes hands strongly with the half-elf after a second of hesitation.
Leaning over the table a bit, he takes a dish from the bucket and starts helping to wash them "My fa-father was the personal guard of Teruko Sama's grandfather. The-they came from Minkai together, tha-that is why I am here... I... I never got to know him, neither my mother, that is why the Mvashtis raised me" Yuto looks with a mixture of sadness and nostalgia while he picks up a piece of cloth and dries one of the dishes "I am bond to this trip both by my promise to Madame Niska and to fulfill the liege of my father to the Kaijitsu's" in a subconscious gesture, he places his hand a few seconds over the hilt of the wakizashi on his belt.
The man gets quite for a time before asking "Are-are those scars from the elves? People say they are a-arrogant and even belligerent to non pureblood elves... b-but those injuries seem terrible... a-and Elvina Naieath has been such nice with all of us... she even has a small hedgehog for a pet, I do-doubt anyone arrogant could love such a little thing tha-that much..."
"Maybe I just need some rest. It's been a long day." Shaking her head, Teruko heads back to the main cart.
Ragnhildr arches a brow, before shaking her head. "I was just wondering what brought you this far north, if you're not going to the Ulfen lands."
Lonjiku sneers. "If you think I have any command of you, then you're delusional. You're a disappointment, and you associate with the lowest of low - vagabonds, bastards, and criminals all. If I had any power, you'd be doing what is right for the family!"
"My fa-father was the personal guard of Teruko Sama's grandfather. The-they came from Minkai together, tha-that is why I am here... I... I never got to know him, neither my mother, that is why the Mvashtis raised me" Yuto looks with a mixture of sadness and nostalgia while he picks up a piece of cloth and dries one of the dishes "I am bond to this trip both by my promise to Madame Niska and to fulfill the liege of my father to the Kaijitsu's."
"You never knew your mother, either? You mean they both perished in a time before your memories awakened?" Andochtuir asks, momentarily forgetting about his current task. That was horrible, and probably paid a huge part in his stammering and seeming lack of confidence. "I... am sorry to hear that. Still, that speaks well of your foster family, to take you in as they did. And I'm sure your parents would be proud of your adherence to Minkaian honor concepts."
The man gets quite for a time before asking "Are-are those scars from the elves? People say they are a-arrogant and even belligerent to non pureblood elves... b-but those injuries seem terrible... a-and Elvina Naieath has been such nice with all of us... she even has a small hedgehog for a pet, I do-doubt anyone arrogant could love such a little thing tha-that much..."
The warrior traces both the upper and lower part of his left eye socket, following a set of parallel ones that both seemingly narrowly misses the target. "No. Most of these are from lesser demons or corrupted wildlife, others from monsters on the road. But yes, descrimination is... more prevalent than I'd like. Still, father was, or is, one of the nobles sent as advisors to the Mayor. I imagine he pulled some strings to get my brother and I a chance to be allowed into the mysterious capital city, Iadara. The price was ten years of military service in a problem region known as the Tanglebriar. Some looked down on us, and when my brother died, I... realised it was his dream, and not mine anymore. So I left."
There was a lot more to be said, of course. But perhaps Yuto didn't really need to know that his brother had been a much more powerful warrior than him, and that he himself hadn't seen nearly as much combat either. Among other things. But if the man was putting a lot of faith in him... it technically wasn't a lie not to share such.
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"I-indeed my mother died birthing me while my father was away protecting his liege. O-only recently exploring the Brinestump Marsh we discovered he died while trying to fulfill his duty of protecting the Kaijitsus..." for a second Yuto considers showing the note they found but he realizes it does not only concern his father but Teruko's and Ameiko and he just bites his lip "Yes, Madame Niska and Koya have been real parents to me. A-all the rest I learnt from the Tian books my parents left behind..."
Yuto gulps when Anndochtuir explains the origin of his scars, and he drops the dish he is drying when the elf reveals his noble origins "Are you an elven noble?!!! Oh, sorry, I-I am so sorry..." he attempts a clumsy vow "Wh-hat is the proper way to direct to you? S-sir Andochtuir? Oh, I-I am so sorry, I know so little about the elves..."
The young man is only even more impressed when the half-elf talks about the Tanglebriar and his demon fights "Y-you fought demons yourself? O-oh, I am so-so sorry about the loss of your brother... I-I am sure he was a great fighter..."
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"Are you an elven noble?!!! Oh, sorry, I-I am so sorry..." he attempts a clumsy vow "Wh-hat is the proper way to direct to you? S-sir Andochtuir? Oh, I-I am so sorry, I know so little about the elves..."
In a series of fluent motions, the half-elf instantly releases the brush he was using, uses the free hand to catch Yuto's falling plate, then uses the other hand to take over said brush before it falls in the soap vat. He looks around, a bit embarassed, when the samurai consequently shouts him being a noble for the entire world to hear and then bows before him. "Hush please, friend Yuto, and rise. What you're saying is technically true, but practically false. I'm now viewed as a... failure of sorts from the elven side, which is where my wealth would have come from. Whatever I might have had was cut off when I left, and I haven't seen my father in years. I would not want anyone in the camp treating me differently or having expectations I couldn't fulfill."
"Well, that, and father disappearing too."
Suppressing the thought, he gives an off-hand wave and a grinning shake of the head to whomever might be watching them; perhaps some would think it a joke. "You know, Yuto? There is one thing a wise philosopher once said: "If we only seek to rule one man, we are each of us kings". Shall we say that under his wisdom, the two of us are equals, and go from there tomorrow? I believe it would be an honor to stand by your side."
He extends a soapy hand for the samurai to shake.
"Oh! W-Well, about that ummm... Y-You see I was just trying to meet up with a friend o-of mine in Brinewall. Kelda Oxgutter. She is a member of a raider-adventurer group a-and they promised to pick me up here and take me to my destination, you see." Riftun seems particularly uneasy at this line of questioning and makes to change the topic.
"But what about all of you? Sandru makes sense but i-it's unusual to find Ameiko and, particularly Teruko, so far away from Sandpoint. What is the destination of this caravan i-if you don't mind me asking?"
The young bard perks up now as he begins thinking on the future. "I-I really suppose I should be asking what you want to do though, Zaiobe! That's what's most important. I-I understand that you don't care for the caravan and, honestly, I'm not sure how long I plan on sticking around, other than healing my dear friend Ameiko I have little business with them after that other than, perhaps, hitching a convient ride for a time... but during that time I-I'd love if you would consided sticking around so I can work on upholding my promise to you and..." He rubs the back of his head a little embarrassed causing his braid to jangle and sway about.
"I'd really enjoy hearing more of your story if you're willing to tell me of course, I-I still think you'd make a fantastic heroine in an epic tale or saga someday."
Ragnhildr waves a hand in the direction of Brinewall. "Here. Something about an ancestral legacy of the Kaijitsus." Her expression falls slightly. "'course, then Ameiko fell ill, so now we're stuck here until we find a way to rouse her."
Yuto observes Andochtuir's quick reflexes in awe. This is a seasoned fighter he can really learn from "A-as you wish Si-sir Andochtuir!" despite he feels confused about his self-king reference, the young man smiles widely and shakes his hand "Deal. It will be an honor to fight back-to-back to unearth the Kaijitsu's Legacy."
While they finish washing the dishes, Yuto asks smaller questions about elven society and their kingdom. As the conversation wraps up, he wishes Andochtuir a good night and looks for a place to rest.
---
The next day, Yuto wakes up refreshed, looks to be in Losk's queue for breakfast and attempts to obtain a fried egg and some bread.
After breakfast, Yuto sharpens his katana, helps himself into his armor, hangs on his back the bow they got from Kikonu and presents himself in the center of the campsite, ready for another day of adventure!
"Ancestral legacy of the Kaijitsus?" Riftun repeats, one brow arched questioningly. He knew that Ameiko and Teruko had come from a noble family, one of Sandpoint's founding families in fact, but beyond the Sandpoint Glassworks and their estate he had no idea what such a 'legacy' could possibly entail.
"We'll make sure she's back to her normal, smiling self again soon. I promise." The red-head smiles and bows politely to Ragnhildr. "Thank you so much for your kind words Ragnhildr, I hope to see you more around here but for now I need to get some food a-and perhaps a bath. Lovely meeting you!"
Riftun dashes off to grab whatever leftover food he can and when he can, after he looks around to make sure absolutely no one is around who could see him he bathes himself thoroughly. His shoulder is still tender from the lizardman's club but, it's nothing a good night's rest won't cure.
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"I don't know much more than that. There's a letter that your friends found down in Brinestump Marsh from their grandfather, but nothing specific." Ragnhildr says with a half-smile. "You could ask Teruko, Yuto, or Torra about it. They were there. Hana's been... distracted since Ameiko fell ill, and Seishin, well... I can't really read him."
Later that night, Sandru announces that the caravan will accept - conditionally - Zaiobe's presence among them. When she's told, the harpy arrives and settles down on the outskirts, keeping wary eyes on the others.
The following morning is a steely grey, with the light of the sun hidden entirely by clouds, and the chill in the air tears heat from the limbs of the heroes and the rest of their caravan. People go about their daily preparations, making food and the like, but there is an air of wariness about the camp - their newest arrival is still not truly trusted.
Koya approaches the heroes when they're ready. "Elvina is... burdened with what happened in there last time. Unfortunately, that means she won't be joining you today." She glances at Riftun. "I'll keep an eye on your friend, young man. Try to make her feel a bit more welcome, hm?"
In the morning Riftun makes sure to bring some breakfast to Zaiobe before they depart in case she has any difficulty dealing with the caravanners.
After taking the time to comb his hair (It's a little messy, Ameiko always did it way better than him) he takes the time to stand by Ameiko's side, he squeezes her hand gently and whispers that they will be back soon with a quivering voice as he can barely hold back the tears looking at his formerly bombastic friend reduced to this state. He gives a sympathetic nod to Hana, who clearly cares much for Ameiko before joining up with the others.
He is happy to see the half-elf man from yesterday will be joining them. He looks so tall and strong compared to Riftun, a true warrior he reckons. Riftun approaches the man and takes his hand, rough and course from all the weapon handling, in Riftun's own soft, delicate hands that have clearly never seen a day of real work in his life. "Oh, I-I'm so glad you'll be accompanying us sir, umm... I'm so sorry, I didn't catch your name? B-But you have such a muscular physique I'd imagine you can protect us very well from a-any monsters that would seek us harm." The young man flashes a smile to the half-elf before turning his attention to Koya.
He nods his head solemnly at the announcement's she has to give and gives the older woman a sad smile, "Well, just please make sure Elvina is well cared for, she fought so hard with us all, she deserves a good rest. A-And please try to make sure Zaiobe feels included, I trust her and she's incredibly capable if you give her the chance."
Torra skips dinner entirely, her stomach still unsettled, although late at night her stomach begins to protest this treatment with ferocity, so she goes off in search of some flatbread she can munch on, as she cannot countenance the thought of anything more substantial - and certainly not meat.
She then goes to where Zaiobe has camped at the edge of the camp to sit with the harpy, asking her questions about the corbies and the lizard people, about herself, about Brinewall.
Awakened earlier than usual by hunger pangs, Torra is up before most of the caravan, busying herself with repacking her gear and fetching water and whatnot for Losk - anything to keep her moving and try to get warmer.
At breakfast, she refuses the bacon and sticks with a double helping of porridge, adding a generous helping of honey to the bowl. As Koya announces that Elvina will stay behind, the dwarf nods, seeming unsurprised. "Can't blame her, what she went through in there..."
Yuto gets a lump in his throat as Koya announces Elvinna will remain in the caravan today. He looks down to the ground, the idea has crossed his own mind a few times before getting up. The young man looks at Teruko, then at Andochtuir and finally nods towards Koya "Ok mother. Please take care of her, that ogrekin nearly ki-killed her..."
Once the group is all ready, he will start to walk towards the ruined town "Ho-how shall we approach the castle? If we think the main gate might be better guarded today, we might try to approach through the forest and climb the eastern wall. I-I think I can climb again the walls and set a rope for you all from the greenhouse do-down" almost subconsciously Yuto touches the magical ring on his finger.
He is happy to see the half-elf man from yesterday will be joining them. He looks so tall and strong compared to Riftun, a true warrior he reckons. Riftun approaches the man and takes his hand, rough and course from all the weapon handling, in Riftun's own soft, delicate hands that have clearly never seen a day of real work in his life. "Oh, I-I'm so glad you'll be accompanying us sir, umm... I'm so sorry, I didn't catch your name? B-But you have such a muscular physique I'd imagine you can protect us very well from a-any monsters that would seek us harm."
Somewhat, yet pleasantly, surprised by the bard not being disdained from his appearance, the warrior isn't immediately sure how to respond. It was probably that part of his brain still had to come to terms with that Riftun was a man - and the very soft touch of his hand really didn't help get over that. "My... name? It's Andochtuir - though, ah, some more close to me have called me 'Andy' in the past," He begins slowly, then catches himself and he smiles back. "Regardless, if you find this form pleasing, I believe you will be pleasantly surprised."
"Ho-how shall we approach the castle? If we think the main gate might be better guarded today, we might try to approach through the forest and climb the eastern wall. I-I think I can climb again the walls and set a rope for you all from the greenhouse do-down" almost subconsciously Yuto touches the magical ring on his finger.
Breaking the bard's handshake, he turns to the Samurai. "That sounds like a good plan. Admittedly, I don't know much of the inner layout, so I am predisposed to go with your opinion. Lead on I say, friend, and I'll take the front with you."
He draws his black fauchard and rests it on the ground, ready to move out.
Koya smiles wearily at Riftun and Yuto. "Naturally. We've taught one another a great deal in the past, and I don't intend to let her down." She looks more directly at Riftun. "Not to worry. I'll do what I can."
The young man is happy to have Torra join him and Zaiobe in the morning and gladly offers to share his toast with the dwarf as they sit about and exchange tales and information, he was trying to avoid carbs at the moment anyways.
He is fascinated to hear about the Kaijitsu legacy from them, he knew that Ameiko was a bold adventurer and that the family name carried some weight but this was truly shocking!
Riftun, himself asks about Torra's history and how they came across their incredible powers. Torra was so humble about them but it was without a doubt that they were one of the strongest in the entire group.
--------------------------
Riftun giggles at Andochtuir's surprisingly reserved response and is relieved to know this fierce, scar-cover man has a soft side to him. "I pleasure to meet you Andochtuir, that's a very elegant name you have i-if you don't mind me saying... umm, I may have to shorten it down a bit in the midst of combat though should it come to that, I hope you don't mind."
When Yuto inquires about the day's strategy Riftun plays awkwardly with his braid, running it circularly around his fingers. "Th-That may work, I-I'm not a particularly strong climber though, I-I'm sorry."
Riftun giggles at Andochtuir's surprisingly reserved response and is relieved to know this fierce, scar-cover man has a soft side to him. "I pleasure to meet you Andochtuir, that's a very elegant name you have i-if you don't mind me saying... umm, I may have to shorten it down a bit in the midst of combat though should it come to that, I hope you don't mind."
"Indeed? Well, thank you! That is kind of you to say. Feel free to use what you feel comfortable with in dangerous situations - Elven names are not the most practical there, I quite agree. 'Andy' will do for me, though I admit I am curious to which nickname you'd come up with for me. The others were... quite imaginitive."
He gives the bard a wink and turns to Teruko, his tone becoming more serious again as he goes on. "Miss Kaijitsu, I realize these may sound like empty words, but I'll do whatever I can to keep you safe and help get your sister back to us. I'd ask you to please stay behind me, but part of me believes that is patronising, and the other part thinks an intelligent woman such as yourself must know your strengths and weaknesses well enough to make the best choices regardless. Act as you will and I will improvise accordingly."
His gaze shifts to Terra last. "Of course, that offer goes to you as well, Miss... Volkio... Verlio... something...?" He tries to go on, but can't quite remember the dwarf's complicated surname. Perhaps he should have memorized that a bit better, he inwardly berated himself. Hopefully the caster didn't mind too much or turn him into a frog, or something. That would be embarassing. Well, more embarassing...
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Torra blinks at Andochtuir until she realizes he's trying to say her name. "Dwarven last names are patronymics. My last name means "Volioker's daughter". Volioker-dam." She doesn't seem offended in the slightest.
She turns to Yuto, nodding at Riftun in passing. "I'm not that good with climbing either. Riftun, did Zaiobe tell you of any secret passages into the castle?" She looks up, perhaps hoping to spot the harpy. "Having someone who can fly can be so useful, you could scout so much better from the air, get the lay of the land, see where the guards are..." She trails off, still looking up, but this time with a thousand-yard stare.
Riftun blushes a little and shies away from Andochtuir's compliment before turning his attention to Torra's line of inquiry. "I'm afraid Zaiobe didn't mention any secret passageways... I believe she was fairly unconcerned with them as she could just fly in and out as she pleased... I wish she were joining us today but ummm... I think she has too many memories attached to this place... memories she'd rather forget."
Noticing the distant look in Torra's eyes the bard gently squeezes her shoulder and smiles sweetly at her. "We'll be okay... I think Kikonu was the worst the keep had to offer... h-hopefully the rest of this can be done without much bloodshed though."
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Teruko's dreams had not been pleasant, and she needs to use makeup to hide dark circles under her eyes. She's not surprised to hear Elvina won't be joining them. Were it not her sister ill, her family legacy hidden in the castle, she wouldn't want to go back either.
As such she smiles warmly at Andochtuir when he joins them. He'd said he would, but she'd feared otherwise. "Thank you for coming with us. I hope the castle might be safer today with Kikonu dead, but it's difficult to know for certain."
"I'd ask you to please stay behind me, but part of me believes that is patronising, and the other part thinks an intelligent woman such as yourself must know your strengths and weaknesses well enough to make the best choices regardless."
It's barely noticeable, but someone looking closely might see her flinch. "Yes. About that. I...Riftun, you mentioned yesterday I seemed distracted. It wasn't the time or place to talk about this then, but you and Andochtuir should probably know why." She focuses on Andochtuir, as he knows the least about her family. It makes things a little easier. "My father died four years ago. Ever since his spirit has been, well, haunting me. Brinewall was once his home, and he has strong opinions about reclaiming it. Sometimes it's difficult for me to separate his emotions from my own. So if I ever seem distracted or...not myself, that's likely why."
She gives a very slight shrug of her shoulders. "I told Yuto and Torra yesterday, before Ameiko fell ill. She confirmed that I wasn't mad." Not that anyone has disbelieved her so far, but she knows the story sounds ridiculous.
More ridiculous than finding Yuto's dead father in Brinestump Marsh, still carrying a secret letter from your grandfather?
Come to think of it, a lot of ridiculous things had needed to happen for them to reach this place.
Eager to move on from the awkward conversation, she nods immediately at Yuto's plan. "That sounds fine. I doubt anyone at the castle has organized a proper defense yet, but they probably will be expecting us to return. If they're guarding anywhere it will be the main gate, so going a different way seems like a good idea." Climbing is normally something she'd like to avoid, but with a rope it should be doable. If nothing else she should be able to hold on while the others pull her up.
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Riftun is stunned by Teruko's sudden reveal. He had noticed she was acting strangely yesterday but he would have never, in a million years, have guessed that it was because she was being actively tormented by the lingering spirit of her dead father. The bard shivers at the thought.
"W-Well... that was very brave of you to share with us Teruko... If Ameiko has vouched for you than I have no reason not to believe you as well." He sighs sadly and looks over Teruko's outwardly calm demeanor. How did she manage to stay so poised in the face of such a strange and uncomfortable situation"
"It's truly awful that you have to go through this right now but you're very strong for facing it for the sake of your sister... I-I'll do some research and see if there is anything that can be done to excise this tormenting spirit within you."
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The party moves out, into the ruined village. The path is somewhat well-trodden - though it isn't immediately obvious when they arrive whether the dire corbies have patrolled through the village. As they swing down south towards the graveyard, they hear something.
"Wait! We need to talk." The voice is a tad higher than most, but beautiful nonetheless. Looking around, they see a tiny woman with butterfly wings standing on the gate of the graveyard.
Yuto listens a bit worried as Teruko reveals the problems that haunt her. While they work forward, he looks down and stretches his lips.
The young man raises his head surprised by the unexpected voice as they reach the town's graveyard "Wa-wait? Wh-who are you?"
Drawing his katana, Yuto observes the varisian stars in the tiny creature "A-are you Desna herself?" he looks into the graveyard where the day before they had seen signals of devotion to the goddess of travel.
Gasping initially at the sudden high-pitched shout for their attention Riftun hides himself behind the tall half-elven man. When he takes a moment to peek out around from behind Andochtuir the young bard's face goes from cautious fear to absolute delight.
"Oh my goodness! A real life lyrakien azata!" Riftun gasps cheerfully, holding his hand up to his mouth before running over to the small figure with a big smile on has face, practically bouncing with excitement. "Goddess! I never thought I'd be blessed enough to see one of your kind outside of the illustrations in the stories! I-I'm a follower of the Starsong myself and... and... and... oh just look at you, you're beautiful!" He chirps excitedly.
Glancing back at Yuto he waives his friend off. "Thank you Yuto but no need for the sword, this is a good entity from the plane of Elysium, since she's known as 'the traveler's best friend' I'd say we can trust her!"
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Torra's eyes widen in wonder as the tiny flying woman appears, her mouth forming an 'o' of surprise and amazement. She raises her hand, palm down and the index finger slightly raised, as you would when you hope a bird or butterfly might alight on it.
The lyrakien giggles at the thought. "No. Just a servant, is all. A little different than the one who built the statue." She gestures towards the northern end of the cemetery, though she still remains high on the gate. "I'm Spivey, a priestess of the Song of the Spheres, and once a companion to a mortal priestess, as well. Who are you all, and why are you in Brinewall?"
Spivey looks at Torra, puzzled. "I'm a bit too big for that."
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"My father died four years ago. Ever since his spirit has been, well, haunting me. Brinewall was once his home, and he has strong opinions about reclaiming it. Sometimes it's difficult for me to separate his emotions from my own. So if I ever seem distracted or...not myself, that's likely why."
She gives a very slight shrug of her shoulders. "I told Yuto and Torra yesterday, before Ameiko fell ill. She confirmed that I wasn't mad."
"'Madness...' it is a term I dislike," Andochtuir says, solemnly. "One used too often to describe something people do not understand, or fear. Too little research has been done into illnesses of the mind, too little effort taken when one can hide ignorance behind a vague concept. In actuality, it is thought to be a wide spectrum of-"
The warrior stops mid-sentence and shakes his head. "My apologies, Teruko Kaijitsu. What I mean to say is: I thank you for this token of trust, to share something this sensitive with a stranger such as myself. I take it then, that your sister knew he is real based on confirming something only your father could know? If that is true, and he seems to be upsetting you, have you thought on how to proceed? Would you wish him removed so you could be at peace? Or do you value his presence too much?I have no experience in exorcisms, but perhaps Koya might, or Seishin."
Not recognizing the creature but grinning at the responses of the others, the half-elf settles for giving the apparent azata a friendly nod. It didn't feel like his place to share what they were doing here, nor to which degree to do so. "Indeed? A servant of the Great Butterfly herself, come to greet us? What have we done to deserve such esteemed attention?" he asks, amused, sidestepping the issue for now.
"I take it then, that your sister knew he is real based on confirming something only your father could know? If that is true, and he seems to be upsetting you, have you thought on how to proceed? Would you wish him removed so you could be at peace? Or do you value his presence too much? I have no experience in exorcisms, but perhaps Koya might, or Seishin."
It takes Teruko a minute to respond. "For the first question, yes. There are things I know that I should not. Events I recall even though I was not present for them. It was enough for her to believe me. For the second question...what kind of daughter would I be, if I attempted to exorcize him against his will? I won't deny that it is sometimes an uncomfortable thing to share a mind, but he's still my father." She smiles. "Perhaps discovering the secrets hidden in Brinewall, the secrets my grandfather kept from him, will help him find peace. I would hardly begrudge him that."
There's a stiffness to Teruko's shoulders and she's not looking directly at anyone. She also has danced around actually answering the question of whether she would want Lonjiku to be removed or not. It seems she's trying to convince herself, (and Lonjiku by extension), that she would never try such a thing.
Teruko immediately recognizes the small creature, and her eyes widen in wonder. "A lyrakien..." She murmurs, even as Riftun says the same. "I take it you are the one maintaining the graveyard and the statue therein?" Remembering her manners, she inclines her head in what is either a very deep nod or a very shallow bow. "I am Kaijitsu Teruko. Our mission here is threefold; to uncover the source of a mysterious and apparently magical illness which has befallen my sister; to discover a secret legacy my grandfather apparently hid deep inside the keep before it fell, and to rescue Riftun's friend who was captured by the dire corbies within the castle."
Trusting that an azata would not intend them any harm, she is far more open than she would normally be.
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"Done? Nothing, really. I saw some of you passing through yesterday, and I was curious. Of course, it may be that Lady Desna guided me here for this purpose, but if that's the case, I wasn't told directly." She shrugs, her wings fluttering.
Spivey nods at Teruko. "Well, I don't do much, but I do try to keep things clean there. The people buried here were worshippers of Desna, after all, and the goddess' statue is blessed, so I felt that I should keep it preserved." The green-haired celestial considers for another few moments.
"Oh, so are you clearing the castle of those dreadful creatures? That makes good hearing. While I can keep them away from here, there're far too many of them for me to deal with." She frowns. "I did see the Ulfen come here a few weeks ago, but I didn't realize that one of them was captured. If I had been more attentive, I could have stopped your friend from going in." She bows her head at Riftun. "I'm sorry."
The lyrakien hesitates a moment. "Lady Desna has been granting me dreams of late - within the castle lies a shrine once dedicated to her, but now desecrated by another, vile force. Could I trouble you all to look into it? It may be that this is somehow related to your other quests, but... I can't say for certain."
Riftun returns the azata's kind gesture and smiles shyly. "I-It's quite alright miss sometimes bad things happen a-and we can't go placing the blame on ourselves. This is the fault of those creatures within the fort, not your own miss Spivey."
He then raises his head and looks around at the graveyard happily. "Anyways, i-it's a pleasure to meet a fellow servant of Desna out here n the middle of Brinewall. And can I just say, what a magnificent job you've done of maintaining the cemetery here! The place looks lovely."
"The knowledge that this shrine within the keep has been corrupted is just awful, however! Do you know how this came to pass? O-Or perhaps how to remove the corruption? I fear it may somehow be connected to our dear Ameiko's condition as well." The bard stroke his chin thoughtfully as he puzzles over this new information.
"Hmm... Riftun might be correct. Does Ameiko have some sort of special connection to Desna? Is she her patron goddess?" Andochtuir asks the others, who knew her better. "Or perhaps it is not Desna, but rather her position as the Eldest Kaijitsu, thus the rightful inheritor of this 'Legacy', if that is how it works in her culture. And this shrine would be somehow bound to her that way..."
"Oh, n-nice to meet you Spivey" Yuto smiles and follows Riftun's advise sheathing his katana "W-we can try to help. My fo-foster mother is a priest of Desna herself. I am sure she will be happy to meet and talk with you. Her name is Koya. I am co-convinced she will want that shrine to be restored"
"D-do you know what kind of creatures are those be-below the castle?"
Spivey bobs her head side-to-side. "I don't know how. Probably the current inhabitants, though. I don't know how to remove the corruption - save perhaps by destroying the shrine or reconsecrating it. I don't have that kind of power, though - not for either of those things."
The celestial considers for a moment, looking at Andochtuir curiously, but says nothing in response to him, instead looking at Yuto. "Well, that's good news! Maybe she'll have the power to disrupt the shrine. Failing that, there should be a sacred item there... I think." She shrugs. "That's the impression I got, anyways. If you bring it to me, I would be truly appreciative."
"As for what's below the castle... I don't know, but it's bad. Evil to its core." Spivey shudders. "Another reason I've been avoiding going there."
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Unnerved, Torra looks over her shoulder towards the castle. She had thought that Kikonu was the worst in that place, but what Spivey was saying sounded like there was something, or someone... worse.
Something bad enough to corrupt an altar of Desna. She sighs, her eyes turning back towards the direction in which the caravan lay. "I wish Sesishin was here. Or Koya. I'm not good with this faith stuff."
"Neither am I," Andochtuir freely admits. "Should we ask Koya to come with us, now that we know this? As an experienced priestess, she might stand the best chance of consecrating it. And she might want to see it regardless, being a Desnite," he reasons.
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"Hmm... Riftun might be correct. Does Ameiko have some sort of special connection to Desna? Is she her patron goddess?"
Teruko shakes her head. "To the best of my knowledge Ameiko primarily follows Shelyn. She venerates the North Star when she travels, but they don't have a special connection. I believe the family legacy is a more likely cause." She considers for a moment. "What little I know of my grandfather does not include whom he worshipped, but his letter said our family's 'greatest treasure' was hidden in a vault. Not a shrine."
"Although whether it's related or not matters little." She manages to look at Spivey without looking down at her. (A useful skill when dealing with dwarven craftsmen.) "We will look for it as we search the castle, and do what we can once we've found it. To do otherwise would be an insult to the goddess."
The warrior nods at Teruko's words. "Fair enough. So, back into the castle it is, then."
"W-we better look for the shrine and once we have the way cleared, we ca-can call Koya and Se-seishin..." Yuto suggests.
Then, he vows to the lively fey "Tha-thanks for your guidance Spivey. As mother often says: Be Ready for Challenges and Unexpected Friends" the young man smiles, and if it seems their new little friend has nothing else to talk about, he adds another aphorism he learned from Koya "Feet Are for Walking" and starts making his way to the fortress' ruins.
Seemingly fixated on the idea of the corrupted shrine Riftun wears a slight frown of concentration.