"I, uhm..." Luthor said in reply to Nahs asking for further compliments, looking rather confused by her straightforward and entirely unveiled request. "Yes, well, uhm...She certainly knows how to handle those bomb things. Every single one of them ended up hitting something." He smiled, the immediately realized the contents of his supposed compliment. Attempting damage control, he quickly added. "Also proving to be quite the dependable ally. And such shiny scales."
He followed the rest of the conversation in silence, taking it all in but leaving the others to speak. No questions that werent asked really came to him, and as usual he was content to let the talking be done by others. While it wasnt often, he had had his fair share of social failures in his time. "Heck, you almost just had one!"
As they left, Luthor laughed at Nahs question. "Oh Im certain you will find the food delightful. As far as Im aware your people doesnt have much of a tradition for cooking, right?"
"Is it odd that I find the clever one somehow more adorable?" Luthor half whispered to Kazimir, poking an elbow in his side.
Perception:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
Realizing the people pursuing the new arrivals might take some time to show themselves, he settled in, sitting down and wrapping himself in his cloak.
Tilting his head with a curious, bemused look, he scooted closer to Nah, eying "Boo" with obvious interest. "Thats pretty neat!" He said with a laugh, reaching a finger towards it. "Forgive me, but I have a hard time seeing how a Kobold came by the knowledge to build such a thing." He poked Boo a couple of times, causing him to wobble slightly. "It must be an interesting story, if you would tell it?"
"Oh nothing wrong with pink!" Luthor exclaimed, holding up his hands and shaking both them and his head. "Its just, ive read a bit about Kobolds, never heard of pink. Just curious." He said, scratching at the back of his head with an embarrassed look on his face. Hearing Nahs talk of scales and what color she was supposed to be, he chimed in, timidly, unsure how to word the next so as not to offend. "Its not like kobolds never have different colors from the tribe, isnt that sometimes a good thing? ill admit I wasnt always too happy about being different, I still arent sometimes, but it brought me here." He looked at his remaining friends, then the direction Daen and Cyanne had gone. "Atleast being different is never boring, and it tends to get you interesting company if nothing else."
----
As the camp erupted into a general state of chaos, Luthor didnt know what to do with himself. Already, missing Daen and Cyanne made him feel somehow smaller and weaker, and ended up remaining in place, following what was happening and hoping he wouldnt freeze up if things turned hostile.
"I, uhm..." Luthor mumbled as the arrival of the letter suddenly made his world collapse around him. True, their days had been filled with uncertainty, going from one unknown to the other, but amidst it all, he had atleast been able to count on the bedrock of their groups dynamic to keep him grounded. As much as he understood the what and the why, as he read the letter Lali handed him, he found himself feeling selfish, almost hurt, by the prospect of two of his friends leaving him. "Not you, US, this isnt about you!" He thought, forcing himself to refrain from dwelling on self pity.
He cringed visibly as Cyannes shouting erupted from the tent. His time with his parents and later Aron and Lirpeth had afforded him his share of situations as bystander to someone elses trouble, and he never knew what to do with himself, at once wanting to find something else to occupy his mind, but at the same time too curious to not listen.
Having slowly inched to stand near Kazimir (atleast partially subconsciously) as things happened around him, he stepped out of his shadow to accept Cyannes parting gesture. "Me, me too." He mumbled, rubbing his chin where she had kissed him. "Lets just agree to not make this our last goodbye ok?" He said, feeling his eyes subtly water at the edges.
A mix of a want for distraction and genuine interest in the Kobold Kaz had called "Nah" drew his attention, and he turned towards the diminutive creature in time to wipe his eyes. "So, Nah huh? Im Luthor, but I guess you know that though? Uhm, interesting critter youve got there, and..." He paused, straightened up and tilted his head with a questioning expression. "..And...youre pink?"
As per usual, Luthor had kept his mouth shut while Cyanne was talking to the kobolds. Most of what he would have to say wouldnt be of any actual consequence to the proceedings, and odds were just as good that whatever he said would not go over well. "Its her doing the talking for a reason." He thought to himself, nuzzling Rikka and catching Kazimirs gaze before shrugging and sighing softly.
The kobold brawl did manage to elicit a snigger which he failed to queel with his hands, though it hardly mattered considering what was going on. "You know, I can tell this is serious stuff to them, but its just so awfully endearing isnt it?" He whispered through his fingers, snorting again as the pathetic kobold fighting once more became too funny for him to handle.
Meeting Akiros again managed to sour his mood however. Without giving it much thought, he stepped between him and Kazimir, scowling at him with the closest approximation to hatred he had ever been able to muster. He wanted to say something, make a show of telling this man that he was watching him, what would happen if he betrayed them in any way. But he had neither the brawn nor bravado for such claims, so settled for the angry stare. Rikka for her part tried to assist, though her lack of facial expression just caused her to look more beady eyed than usual.
Distracted by Cyannes question, he took the spyglass and looked down upon the scene. "Could they be clearing out the surroundings for ease of guarding it?" He asked, looking and sounding about as unsure as he was. "No terrain to hide in or behind."
Sheating his hand in light with a practiced flick of his wrist, Luthor ran to Cyanne, holding his hand towards her, offering it. "Here." He called out, unable to quite reach her with the beast there.
"Well I personally already have a suggestion for some of it." Luthor said smiling, looking bashful as he swallowed the mouthful he had just spoken through. "What healing I have only amounts to so much, and id like to be able to branch out a bit in what spells I select." He nuzzled Rikka and looked at her, the two nodding their understanding. "So, a healing wand then?" He asked, pausing with a scoop of food in front of his mouth, looking around the table. "Cant be too expensive...can it?"
"Just lay into it proper Kaz, I can heal it once its down!" Luthor shouted, noting the rather awkward way he was swinging his axe. He then made more of an effort to distract the creature, waving his dagger around as if he was about to stab.
Pausing to look in the direction of Kazimir and his piercing voice over the noise, Luthor gaped a bit at the sheer power of it. He was usually so soft spoken, this was a first. He then looked at Rikka. "Well, time to give this new thing a try, huh?" He said to her, looking at the fleeing orphans as they started to slip away. "Lets see, how was it?" Rikka made a few gestures in reply, sensing where his memory was failing him. "Right, left over right, then cup the hands." He said, nodding and smiling at her.
Stopping in the middle of the street, he started gesturing, muttering in some strange otherworldly language that seemed to flow from his lips automatically rather than through any conscious effort.
Glitterdust (DC 16) on whichever one Luthor can see, with priority for the boy if he can see both.
"When were you home last?" Luthor asked, as he started searching the small home with the others, prompted by Kazimirs statement. "How old is he? What sort of boy is he? We need to know more about him to peice together where to look."
Noting the rather pensive and fidgety behavior that Kazimir had settled into, Luthor shrugged, putting on a cheerful smile. "Maybe youre right though Kazimir." He said as they continued down the street. "I mean you should be comfortable in your gear or its likely to become a problem. Maybe something a bit lighter?" He had barely spoken the words before a look of surprise crossed his face and his smile widened. "Like that?!" He said excitedly, pointing at a man a little down the street. Rather official and stately looking, the man which was likely a guard captain or something similar, wore a thick breastplace, armored plates handing from it to cover his legs down to his knees. His heavy boots were plated, and he wore metal gauntlets. He held a plumed helmet under one arm as he haggled with a street vendor. "Youd look good in something like that Kaz, dont you think? And it sort of light."
Being stopped by Kazimir, he looked a bit surprised by his question. "Worked up?" He asked, looking like he was processing it as he looked back at him in silence a moment. "Yeah, I guess I was." He looked almost defensive, a hint of a frown cresting his eyebrows. "And why shouldnt I? For someone returning from the dead you seem awfully reluctant to take steps to prevent it happening again." He pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing heavily. "Its selfish, but I dont just want you safe for your own sake." He shifted into an apologetic look, eyes dropping to the copplestone beneath them. "Finding you like that during the siege, it sort of, I dont know, "broke" me." He said, glancing up at Kazimir. "Im ok now, but Im not sure how I would handle it if it happened again. I feel like it would be that much worse."
A +1 breastplate would allow Fast movement to work, be cheaper and still offer pretty good armor.
Restive Rose:
Before Luthor knew it, the Restive Rose was a flurry of activity. He smiled wide at the show, bobbing from side to side in his chair to the music. Following the conversation was hard with all the delightful distractions, and quite frankly he wasnt much interested in the sorts of things that were being discussed. Besides, Daen seemed to be taking to it far better than he could himself. "Im liable to set him back with anything I say. Better just observe." He thought even as his focus drifted to the stage again. "Quite something isnt it?" He asked Kazimir, nudging him in the side and motioning towards the dancing women. Before he could get an answer, he was distracted again as Perli took part of the drink He stifled a laugh, snorting through his fingers.
Scurrying out of the crowds, dodging feet and snaking her way across the floor, Rikka returned, drawn by Luthors happiness and her task being rendered rather moot as the room had filled with people. Climbing onto the table, she gave the drunken dragon a sideways glance.
Man-tage:
Waving at Svetlana as she spotted them, Luthor politely waited off to the side as she ran to Kazimir. Though he had only experienced it the once, he was well aware of the euphoria of finding a dead friend suddenly alive.
"Its definitely a good idea." Luthor piped up, looking surprisingly stern as he interjected himself in the conversation. "You may have been used to tending fields and wielding farmers tools before you went on this...quest. But now, you are doing decidedly different work, and passing up the best you can get is just foolish. We dont want a repeat performance!" As he spoke the last he looked a little angry, sligtly desperate, his body language having grown a bit animated. He calmed down a bit, holding up his hands to halt any reply or inquiry. "As for being heavy, yes, it is. But not the the extent you might think. Plate is made in such a way that straps and buckles lets the weight of it rest across you entire body." He looked thoughtful a moment, looking for the words. "Sort of like the pulleys used to raise a barn, making the weight far more manageable."
"Whats going on?" Luthor half whispered sideways at Cyanne, taking in their surroundings and looking very uncomfortable. Something seemed decidedly off by the scene and he didnt like it. "Have a look around, but be careful." He whispered to Rikka, who nodded and made her way down to the floor to go scouting.
Following Laliytsas lead, Luthor simply offered a hand to shake, along with his name. "Luthor, Luthor Rowe." Following that, he remained quiet during the discussion, though the mention of burned down taverns did cause a bit of worry to creep onto his face. "I hope its not the Thatchers?" He asked.
Once his worries were dispelled with the priests answer, he waited for the discussion to continue to its conclusion, before asking. "Being an established cleric of Erastil, I was wondering if there is any formal ritual or ceremony if one wishes to join his flock? Kazimirs return has prompted me to finally place myself in the hands of a higher power."
Beardy assault:
Managing to very politely freeze like a statue as what appeared to be a homeless man hugged him, Luthor soon relaxed into returning her hug as Lilly identified herself through the mess of hair and rags. "Good to see you again Lilly." He said, hands on his hips as he gave her an appraising once over. He nodded as she finished speaking. "Yeah, Greenbelt, ofcourse you are correct." He looked at the others, motioning at them as a group. "Took up the charter, got a good bit more than I bargained for, though luckily these fine people were part of the package." He went to Lilly side, shoulder hugging he and gesturing at the others again. "They are my friends now, just like you." He looked down at her, shaking her lightly from side to side. "Well maybe a bit more than you, we only had the two days last time. But theres ways to remedy that." He looked around, trying to get his bearings but soon giving up with his limited recollection of the city from his last short visit. "Maybe we catch up, get something to eat? We will probably have work for you before we leave, almost guaranteed."
As Daen takes Cyanne and Laliytsa aside, he spends a long time staring at the the surface of the table, before quietly addressing Luthor. "How bad is it?" he asks, lifting his chin and indicating his neck. "I haven't looked yet. I'm not sure I even want to." After a few moments, he sighs, shaking his head. "Look at me. Worrying over a scar like a vain nobleman," he mutters, pushing himself up from the table and heading over to his horse.
Luthor stepped closer, squinted a little, then grabbed hold of Kazimirs shoulders to turn him slightly and afford better lighting. "As Ive been saying more than I care to lately, Im no physician..." He started, tilting his head slightly and squinting again. "...So take this with a grain of salt when I give my opinion." He finished, stepping back a pace and hugging his torso with one arm, resting the other elbow upon it with a contemplative look on his face. "I think it looks alright really." He finally said, offering a reassuring smile. "Bit of an angry red color to it, but its been fading since the temple. If nothing else, Akiros gave you a clean cut, id be surprised if theres more than a faint white line if a week or so." He moved to Kazimirs, side, stopping and resting a hand on his shoulder. "As for being vain, thats hardly reserved for noblemen. Fretting over ones looks is something we all get to do, some more than others." He leaned in close, whispering sideways. "Dont know if youve noticed, but me and Rikka spend a little of our morning preparations fixing our hair." Rikka scurried from one shoulder to the other, locking eyes with Kazimir and nodding with what looked like a serious look in her eyes, as much as he was able to actually read a mongooses facial cues.
Giving his shoulder a squeeze and two quick pats, Luthor left Kazimir to tend to his horse, calling back over his shoulder. "I wouldnt worry too much. With luck it will make you look dashing...even more so."
Put on the spot:
Cyanne wrote:
She pulls back, straightens her spine, and pulls her hair back in a Lirpeth bun, securing it with a pin. Raising an eyebrow, she gives him the patented Lirpeth look. Penetrating, sardonic, intense. The look that Lirpeth used whenever she said, 'I don't suffer fools gladly, and you, young man, are being a fool.' It had quelled unruly students at the academy for over a 100 years.
"You have 'neither the experience nor the inclination to meddle'? Really, Luthor. You meddled. You meddled big time and I love you for it. So... I'm going to return the favor. Luthor, when are you going to tell Kaz how you really feel about him?"
Luthor laughed, recognizing the Lirpeth parody for what it was. His laughter grew as she began to speak in a mock imitation of Lirpeths stern voice. For many long moments after she finished speaking, there was only Luthors laughter and Cyannes expectant silence.
The realization of what had actually been said hit Luthor suddenly, his laughter abruptly cut short with a startled "What!?!" The surprise was sufficiently jarring, it caused him to lose his balance and tumble to the floor, landing on his rear end with a thud.
He looked up, bewildered, eyes dashing around, taking in her expression. "I..I dont....what?" He managed to stammer. He looked at her wordlessly for a long time, his breathing suddenly a bit labored. Finally, he closed his eyes as if to steady himself, then combed his hair with his fingers, slow, deliberate motions, his face set in a contemplative frown.
"Speaking of being obvious..." He murmured, looking up at her with a sheepish half smile. Then he shrugged. "Honestly? I dont know Cyanne." He exhaled loudly, leaning back on his arms, his feet rocking from side to side. "I...I see him as a friend, and maybe.." He paused, looking her dead in the eyes with a serious stare, emphasizing the first word as he continued. "...Maybe, something more. Been like that since the first few days after meeting."
He shook his head with an annoyed grunt. "You have to understand, but for a rare few times, Ive almost never thought of anyone in that way. Men or women." He slid himself a few feet across the floor, leaning against the wall instead of on his arms. "It wasnt just some throw away comment or hyperbole when I said I have no experience." He muttered. He glanced at Rikka who had scurried onto the table as he had fallen to the floor. She merely tilted her head, looking at him curiously. He smiled. "Yeah, youre as clueless as I am, arent you?" He said, reaching up to nuzzle her head.
He returned his gaze to Cyanne. "So Ive got three obstacles standing in the way of confessing anything." He said, moving his hand from Rikkas head, three fingers raised. "One, I have no idea how to even begin confessing something like that, two, Im not even entirely sure if theres anything to confess, and three, I dont even know if I, you know..." He trailed off, looking away, then glanzing back at her. "..Which way I..swing?"
Luthor was a city boy, in a way. His home had sat in something too big to be a town, yet somehow too small to truly be a city. Still, it had afforded him enough experience with city life to not leave him uncomfortable in the busy streets the way Kazimir was. At the same time though, the sheer scale of the city was new and exciting, and he took it all in, smiling wide and offering polite greetings to anyone who looked like they might enjoy the gesture.
Walking up to Kazimir at a brisk stroll, he reached out from behind, then hesitated a moment. The talk with Cyanne had left him second guessing every interacting with Kazimir.
Then he caught his stride, decided and walked up close enough to nudge Kazimir in the side. "Whats the matter farm boy, bit too much for your sensibilities?" He asked, chuckling slightly. "Dont worry, I sort of know what its like. I guess for you it must feel like the first time swimming in a big dark lake." He paused a moment to bow politely at a passing woman with a basket full of bread, then jogged to catch up. "The lake looks big and scary and you worry what might happen if you lower yourself into it. But then once you do, you realize its just water." He gestured at everything around with outstretched arms, turning in a full circle as they walked. "This is the same. Once you immerse yourself in it, its just people. Many, many people, but people all the same. And just like diving into that lake soon became easy, because you knew it wasnt as terrifying as it might have seemed at first, it is the same here. Trust me." He patted him reassuringly on the back, then jogged ahead to catch up to Cyanne, joining her in marveling at someone or something in the crowd.
At the talk of the charter and offered reward, Luthor shrugged. "I wasnt too worried about what I would be getting when I set out with the charter. Truth be told I took it mostly to get some direction, something to do."
A little while later at the square, even preoccupied with taking in his surroundings, Luthor noticed the horsemen. He leaned close to Daen as they rode off, half whispering, though loud enough that any of the others could easily hear. "Sooo, what was that about?" He asked. "The cyclops seemed to take more than a passing interest in you." He turned to Cyanne. "You as well." He paused then added. "The hair probably, though id imagine he had seen something like that before."
"So" He said, not missing a beat. "Have our strategists decided on where we go then?"
Luthor has nothing he really needs to make him a better combatant and explorer just right now, so when talk shifts to Kazs armor, hes gonna be rather insistent he be allowed to pool his money with him for something good.
He shook his head. "Not obvious, no. Noticing was a concerted effort between me and Rikka. I wouldnt worry too much on that front."
"Exactly what he doesnt want?" He said as she finished, looking slightly amused for a brief moment. "Cyanne, theres a difference between what you think you want, and what you actually need." He stepped through the door, closing it behind him, then walked to where she was sitting and pulled up a chair for himself.
"Speaking strictly ambitions, would Daen be better served with a conventional pairing with a woman of the exact same mindset as himself? Probably." As he spoke he slid his chair over until they were side by side, the pulled her into a one armed shoulder hug. "Would it bring him any happiness though? Definitely not. Would it even make him miserable in the long run? Probably." He looked past her face to her other shoulder, meeting Rikkas eyes as she perched there. He nodded at her, some unspoken understanding between the two. "I mean, take me for example." He started, gesturing with his other hand to his chest. "If not for the Inquisitor, I could probably have stayed at home, been left to wrestle with what I am on my own. I would have gotten what I wanted, to stay with my family, but with time it would have soured and been ruined. Same with Daen and a "proper lady" He said the last words with an exaggerated tone. "In the short run he would get what he wanted, but he wouldnt be happy." Rikka stepped bodily into Cyannes hair, running her paws through it, stroking it.
"Dont dwell on what you did in the stables." He continued after sitting silent a few moments. "If it had been me or Kazimir he would have chewed us out about it all the same. Thats really got nothing to do with you and him. Besides, I dont take it you want him to go easy on you just because you two are sort of a thing, do you? I mean, you like him for who he is, and not just those ears, right?" He nudged her shoulder with his fist, smiling.
"As for this past of yours, what exactly is there to overlook? The dancing? Quite frankly, if thats an issue for him im not sure hes worth the trouble. Have you discussed it with him at all, or just silently wallowed in your doubts about it?" He didnt let her answer just yet, quickly adding. "And on the subject of doing good? Yes, you are." He smiled, the gesture slightly overbearing, like a parent or older sibling. "Doing good and doing well are two entirely different things. You could do something good and end up making things worse, or do the wrong things and yet end up doing well regardless. We are a team Cyanne, our success and failures are for all of us to share."
He had turned to face her as he spoke, her shoulders clasped in his hands. In the silence that followed, he lets his hands drop to his sides, standing. "We need you Cyanne." He said as bluntly as he could manage, trying to leave no doubt as to the absolute truth of that statement. "Me, Kazimir, Laliytsa, Daen...Rikka and Tango." He turned, opening the door but not leaving just yet. "That really shouldnt have been in question, but I hope you trust me to speak for the others as well as myself on that front. Maybe now that weve settled that, you can focus on thinking about you and Daen." He removed his shirt from where it was wrapped about his waist, putting it back on. "That is between you and him, and I have neither the experience nor the inclination to meddle with whats going on between you two."
Maybe it was the slouch as Cyanne left, maybe it was the peculiar feelings Rikka was giving him in relation to the way she spoke. Whatever the case, Luthor for once managed to notice that something was wrong even if noone had spoken of it. Finding her where she had retreated to do paperwork, he knocked gently on the door, pushing it open. He hadnt come right away, instead finding more work to assist with, no less sweaty than he had been when entering the stables.
"Got a moment to talk?" He asked, pushing the door open to the point that he could lean on the door frame and still have clear view of her. "Not about me though, about you." He gave Rikka a glance, and she nodded. "About you and Daen actually. Seems like you arent saying what you are thinking, atleast not to him." He nuzzled Rikka, then nudged her. She leaped down and made her way to Cyanne. "If you cant talk to him now, maybe talk to me? I worry you are going to explode and say something you will regret if you dont vent somehow."
Luthor had been silent on the ride home, and hadnt really spoken much since they arrived back. It had happened alot lately, but then again, there had been so much going on he had needed time alone, even in the company of the others.
He had sought refuge in Erastil, but it wasnt until Kazimirs resurrection that he had realized just how hollow that devotion had been, nothing but a way to cope. It wasnt until after that miracle that he had truly felt something. He wasnt yet sure if it was just another case of false devotion, gratitude in disguise.
But it felt every bit as real as he thought possible.
He looked up from the work he was doing, his gaze following Daen and Kazimir as they entered the stables. He had offered to help with work at the post, now shirtless and sweaty. He wasnt strong, but the mandatory exercise at Aron and Lirpeths had afforded him enough brawn to be able to cope. Still, his delicate hands werent used to hard work, and he grimaced, rubbing at the latest blister. "Kazimir says theres something great about the aches after a days work. I guess its an acquired taste." He mumbled to Rikka as she handed him another nail to start hammering into place.
Hey everyone. Much like Lali, I havnt been in the right head space to post anything for a solid week (maybe more?). Thought it was about time some proof of life was handed out to you guys.
Luthor stood still as a statue, a look of utter surprise and disbelief plastered on his face. His mouth hung slightly open with dumbfounded awe. "I-I...How?" He managed to gasp as his legs gave out beneath him. He propped himself up against the edge of the pool, barely able to sit up straight. He had been so tightly wound keeping calm and trying to move past the death of his friend, the sudden relief at seeing him alive had robbed his body of all its strength. Rikka for her part scurried to the edge, eyed the water, then decided to go the long way around the edge.
Luthor had heard of people coming back from the dead, he even believed it to be true. Yet somehow seeing it truly happen, a real miracle before his very eyes. It caused tears to well up in his eyes, a joyous smile parting his face from ear to ear.
Getting shakily to his feet, halfway scrawling, he follow Cyanne into the water. He was laughing. Falling the last few feet, he wrapped his arms around Kazimir, hugging him tightly. He held it only a few short moments, then pulled back slightly, his hands moving to grasp Kazimirs face. His hands shifted across Kazimirs features, confirming what his eyes were seeing. "How?" He asked in a loud, hoarse whisper, wide eyed, still smiling.
"Good work!" Luthor halfway shouted, smiling broadly from the exhilaration of a battle won. His outstretched hand wielding the dagger trembled slightly, and he lowered it, stowing the dagger in its sheath. He walked up to Laliytsa, his hand already glowing. "Lets get tjat looked at." He muttered as he searched for the right area to touch.
Healing Hex:1d8 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
Luthor thought he should say something following Jhods rather awkward and informal speech, but he couldnt find the words. Truth be told he wasnt sure Kazimir would have cared much for grandiose speeches in his memory. Still, he had to say something, anything.
"Kazimir was a good man, a good friend." He started, hands folded in front of him. "It wasnt a friendship of shared interest, ambitions or any number of other things one might associate with friendship." He struggled a moment with emotion, his lower lip quivering slightly. But this time he managed to quell his reaction. Over the last few days he had come to terms with reality as it was, to the extent that he could finally control himself. He straighted his back and blinked a few times. "Kazimir was a gentle, kind hearted soul in a savage world. He knew what was good and right and wouldnt...couldnt back donw and allow injustice and evil to prevail while he could still fight it." He smiled a tender smile, looking at Kazimirs lifeless, yet somehow serene face. "He was every bit as good as I hoped everyone would be, but had never truly seen, a confirmation that such character was not reserved for ephemeral immortal beings." He looked around at everyone. "Whatever else he may have accomplished, I like to think, wherever he is, he smiles knowing he has left us all better, kinder by his example."
He was quiet a moment, then looked up a bit sheepishly. "Thats..thats all I had to say really. If its all the same I would prefer to clean him with magic."
"Closest friend?" Luthor repeated absentmindedly, looking up with a sort of lazy surprise etched on his face. "I hadnt really thought of it like that." He looked thoughtful, then somehow both sadder than ever yet smiling a genuine subdued smile. "I suppose youre right about that. If anyone would know it would be you."
He accepted the seed, looking around for a good place to plant it. He looked to Jhod. "Religious studies were never my forte, is there any place thats especially suitable?" He turned to look at a nearby oak, a thick stocky trunk topped by a thick tangle of twisting branches. It looked as if it could withstand anything nature could throw at it. "Perhaps here?" He walked into the shadow cast by the trees branches, gesturing at the ground.
As Cyanne began her spontaneous song, he swayed slightly to the tune, joining in the chorus the second time, his voice timid and bashful. As the third chorus came around, he managed to raise his voice, matching Cyannes volume. Luthor had no real musical or lyrical talent, but as Lirpeth had attested, his voice was better than most. Their voices harmonized well, and as the last words were sung, he was once more teary eyed, but smiled happily.
Luthor was just finishing his discussion of Erastil with Jhod when Cyannes voice drifted in through the cloth of the tent. "Thanks, I will come to you again if I have more questions." He shook Jhods hand, then went back outside. Asking Jhod about becoming a member of Erastils flock had not gotten him the answers he expect. It was really very simple for common people. "You need only know in your heart that he is yours and you are his. Past that its up to you how much of your life he will fill." He repeated what Jhod has said again in his mind, committing it to memory. "I would suggest you observe his holidays, try to attend sermons when you can, and think of him when you rise in the mornings and when you lay down to rest at night. Then decide from there." He nodded to himself. He was going to do just that.
Walking up to Cyanne he said nothing, instead simply leaning on a tree and listening. As she finished and turned to Kazimir, he realized that she probably hadnt even noticed he was there. He managed a smile, nudging Rikka with his head. "Looks like she is going to be alright." He whispered, then walked to his bedroll. Seeing his friends come to terms with what had happened helped assure him that he himself was going to be alright.
Luthor didnt recover in the days that passed. Kazimirs death had left him in a stupor, performing tasks and conversing with a subdued, detached demeanor. Since consoling Cyanne, he had hardly smiled and had kept quiet unless spoken to.
Around the campfire, Luthor sat and sipped on a cup of prestidigitationed water. "Still not quite right. I wonder how long it took Cyanne to get this down?" He wondered, a whisper of a smile arching the corners of his mouth.
He had only half been listening to Jhods story, realizing halfway through that he had heard it before, or maybe a similar story. As Jhod left, it was more Cyannes tone than her words that made him look up and speak. "I think he was making a comment about Kazs...sacrifice." He said, noticably saddened. Despite traveling with Kazimirs body, saying the words still felt like a sudden, painful reminder. He inhaled deeply, holding the breath before letting it go, steadying himself. "Its a reminder of what he died for, to help make life better for others. Its the very essence of his faith, giving yourself for the community." He took another sip. "In a way its good to be reminded. It helps...a little."
He fell silent, shifting in his seat and looking thoughtful. "Ive never given much thought to religion." He suddenly said, staring into his cup. "At the end of the day, gods are people to. Immensely powerful people, but people all the same." He turned his cup in his hands, circular motions, causing the water to whirl around within. "It seemed so silly to me, paying homage to someone just because they are somehow greater than myself. But I realize now, thats not really what its about." He looked up, his eyes big and shiny in the firelight, a look of realization on his face. "Its about what they stand for. People pay tribute not because of their power, but because they are paragons of an idea, an ideal to aspire to."
He fell silent again, once more looking into his cup. "I...I think Erastil is for me." He finally said without elaborating further. A moment later he got up, emptied his cup, then made for Jhods tent. "Do you have time to talk?" His voice drifted back to the others at the fire, before he a moment later disappeared inside.
Hadnt given any thought to who Luthor might worship and figured he simply didnt subscribe to any faith. Erastil really is the embodiment of everything Luthor would look for if he decided to pick.
I once played a synthesist summoner whose Eidolon was basically a sentient suit of powered armor, linked to the armor he was wearing. It didnt despawn when he went unconscious, and had a stealth penalty. Im all for fiddling with the rules to make stuff work.
Too mentally exhausted to care about bashfulness, Luthor simply met her hug like a statue. Listening to what she said, his rigidness left him and he returned her hug without reservation. In the hours that had passed, he had all but shed every tear he could muster, having finally found refuge in tending to the bandit graves. Despite Daens practical insistence that a mass grave was both more efficient and deserved, he nonetheless dug individual holes, stopping after the second, his hands blistered more than they had ever been.
"I didnt see those last moments." He said, his voice flat and barely above a whisper. He released his hug, pulling Cyanne out at arms length, his hands on her shoulders. He met her gaze with red and tired eyes that yet somehow still radiated an optimistic spark. "But I think we both know you didnt drag him anywhere." He looked sad for a moment, then mustered up a timid yet genuine smile. "I saw the lance you know. Kazimirs charge had so much weight behind it it shattered." He crossed his arms, leaning on himself. "Now Im no weapons expert, but you dont do that if your heart isnt in it."
With a lazy look of realization, he raised his hands to his shoulders, nuzzling the mongeese with a renewed smile. He returned his gaze to Cyanne. "He knew what he was doing, he knew what might happen. We all did, even if some of us didnt want to acknowledge the possibility." He scooped up Tango and Rikka, stepping towards Cyanne and draping them around her neck instead of his own. "So no more of this, "its all my fault" nonsense, okay? I simply wont allow it. So what if you came through this without a scratch? Do you think he would want it any other way?"
He reached out and rubbed her shoulders consolingly, subconsciously mirroring Lirpeth. "We have to be strong and be a peace with things as they are." He looked weary now, his solemn, content expression revealing itself as the facade it was. A tear escaped one red eye, rolling lazily down his cheek. "We wont be today, not tomorrow, not for a good while, but we have to hold it together. We cant afford to be consumed by doubt. You have to be strong. I know you can, and you will."
He suddenly needed to be alone. He was no hypocrite, he would act on his own advice, but not now. He could feel it, the brave outward composure faltering and another bout of despaired grief moving to take its place. Losing his grip after what he had said would do noone any good, least of all Cyanne. She needed time to realize the truth of his words on her own.
"It has been a long day. We should all get some sleep, or atleast try."
Luthor looked up, an angry, almost rage-filled expression on his face. "He isnt even cold yet and already you think of burial?!" The last few word rose in volume, threatening to turn into shouting. "Did he mean so little to you?!" When he spoke again his tone was mocking. "Well, thats that I guess, better get him in the ground before he starts to smell!" As the last syllables left his mouth, Rikka interrupted, a loud shrill cry which stunned Luthor into silence just as he was about to say more. His expression went from surprise to shock and finally embarrassment. He turned his eyes to the ground, then started to sob.
"I...Im sorry, its just..." He fell silent for a while, then looked up teary eyed with a half smile. "That is a good idea Jhod, I think Kazimir would have liked that."
Well, this is embarrassing...Ive actually managed to associate you so much with your character, I flat out forgot you arent a he. Imagine my surprise when I clicked the images and just sat there for a moment with an idiotic blank stare, trying to connect the dots.
Im honestly a bit disappointed in myself right now.
About the socks...in the bookshelves? You manage to get out of him why he would put them there? I cant think of any scenario where "I know, ill put them in the bookshelves" is the obvious conclusion.
As for my sock situation, mine dont go missing, they just die in the line of duty, full of holes.
"But which one Kesten? Which one?" Luthor said at a near whisper, not looking up at the man. Prompted by Rikkas feelings he tore his eyes from Kazimir, looking at Kesten with a blank stare. Seeing the cause of Rikkas worry, Kestens wound, he lazily reached out a hand, its inner glow weak and bereft of enthusiasm.
Healing Hex:1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7
"If anyone else is injured, bring them to me Kesten." He said meekly, returning his attention to Kazimir. His thoughts on practicality, he finally pushed his friends eyes shut.
Yeah, in my head I had it laid out like ive gotten used to seeing such things in movies, like when Gandalf fell with the Balrog and such. Receiving Cyannes Message just didnt match with what I wanted to do.
There. I struggled a bit with this one, but I think this is the most appropriate reaction. He has barely had time to get over the bandit execution, then bravely pushes himself to do "what needs to be done" despite his nature, then has his first fully confirmed friend in years die.
Yes, everyone in the group is his friend and he trusts them, but there is a deeper level of friendship that goes past that. Call it "best friend" or whatever, you know that friend you know better than the rest.
Kicking his horse into a run, Luthor made for the corner of the fort, slowing to a halt as he reached it. Edging forward to see what was going on, he sighed with relief as he took stock of the initial scene of surrender and victory. Then he noticed it, something was wrong. At first he didnt know what he had subconsciously registered, his eyes darting around the scene, taking in every detail, frantically searching for the cause of the soul crushing chill which had suddenly settled in his gut. Distracted by the movement of horses and men, several moments passed before his eyes fell on Kazimirs motionless shape. For a fleeting moment his optimism flared up. "He has my spell working on him, in a few days the most he will have is the bruised ego..." He thought, before noting Daen and Cyanne riding off in pursuit of what he recognized as Akiros even at this distance. "Why is noone checking on him, helping him, why...?" In an instant, optimism and naivety were driven from him like morning dew before the rising sun. "No..." He gasped, kicking his horse into motion with far more force than was necessary, pushing it into a gallop despite the short distance.
"What are you standing around for!? Someone help him!" He called, practically falling out of the saddle as he yanked violently on the reins. Not bothering to stand he crawled the last few feet frantically grabbing at Kazimirs shoulders and with great effort pulling the big man into a seated position, propped up against himself. "What do I do!? I dont know what to do!" He called, desperately willing his powers to manifest again, but to no avail. His shaking hand moved from one arrow shaft to the next tugging uselessly at each in turn. He clutched at Kazimirs throat, trying to stem a flow which had all but stopped, smearing his hands in blood. "Kazimir...Kaz...what do I do?" He asked feebly, looking into his friends motionless face. Sleepy, half shut eyes stood in stark contrast to his tear stained cheeks and a mouth frozen in a pained grimace, wordlessly, silently telling the story of his last moments.
It was more than he could take. The execution of the bandits, by Daens hand and his own and now Kazimir, dead. It had only been days since their talk had cemented their friendship, days since Luthor had realized that rare feeling of having someone who knew how he felt and shared his concerns and thoughts. It was such a rare thing, to meet someone truly as good as he wanted everyone to be.
And now he was gone.
All strength left his body as he collapsed under Kazimirs weight, the big man falling into Luthors lap. Sobbing uncontrollably, he cradled Kazimirs head in his arms, resting his own upon it, forehead to forehead. "I understand wanting not to care, but don't go down that path - it's not one men can easily return from. Caring makes you human, and it makes you strong." Kazimirs voice from that night repeated in his head. By Kazimirs side, Rikka wedged herself under his hand, as if the offered petting would somehow spur the man back to life. "Is this strength Kaz? I dont feel strong...I feel weak, weaker than ive ever felt..." He croaked between sobbing gasps.
With no resolve left, not knowing what to do, he simply sat there, rocking back and forth, unwilling to let go.
Blissfully ignorant of what was transpiring, Luthor picked up the downed mans weapon, afraid to wake the burly man with his puny dagger. There was no doubt in his mind that failing to deliver a decisive blow could mean his death at the hands of his would be victim.
"I will never get used to this Rikka." He sighed, lifting the blade and striking, gravity doing most of the work.
Ah, but you see, cats are attracted to boxes, so it wouldnt teleport out. Remember the old cat saying, "if it fits, I sits."
Btw Kazimir, something just occurred to me and I thought id mention it for the future. Whenever you have to move on horseback and wont be able to attack anyway, taking a Full Defense action should probably be the default unless you expect opportunities for attacks of opportunity.
