Lostwood Pine, or Lostwood for short, was a forest which stood somewhat in the center of several civilizations large and small. A far older name for this forest is Snakethorn forest due to a type of bush which is known to only grow in this forest. The Snakethorn Bush, which produces Snakeberries. These berries may look delicious but as name may foretell they are incredibly poisonous. Death is not slow from consuming these berries. Illness/fever are first symptoms followed by paralysis. If the anti-poison or antidote is taken soon enough, the road to death can be averted. If not, the body and organs will slowly but surely fail or shut down. This berry has been known to facilitate or be an ingredient in many renown poisons in the world. Especially due to how difficult it can be to pinpoint it's use/presence in the human body. The leaves on the Snakebush are green, yet edges are sharp/spiked. The berry itself is light-blue to white in color. There is another bush which looks exactly like the Snakebush which is not poisonous. The only difference is the non-poisonous brush has ordinary or non-spiny leaves.

Deep within Lostwood, a small clearing existed. Centering the small clearing was a cabin of sorts. Birds chirped, wildlife carried about their business and the sun shone high in the sky. Summer was going strong, in fact it was about the middle of summer-time and noon of that day. If one were walking close enough to this clearing, they didn't even need to see it, they would hear a most peculiar sound. Thunk, thunk, and more thunks echoed faintly throughout. The source of this sound was a man who slowly yet strongly swung an ax against the base of a tree. The man was none other than Jin. He was not only making the clearing a bit bigger, but utilizing the resources which could be found by the tree he was trying to fall.

The sounds of thunks and slams stopped briefly. Jin placed the head of the ax onto the forest soil and braced himself with it. Wiping his brow he cleaned his forehead of sweat. Sluggishly Jin's eyes scanned the tree, looking to see if he needed to move his position or anything else needed to be done. Then the mans eyes would shift to observing the surrounding area. Not easily did this man lose his guard, so checking the environment around him was something often done. Yet, again he would go back to chopping at the tree.

Isla

Isla sat on a large, smooth boulder, sunlight pouring over her. She was cross legged, hood of cloak folded back and equipment like her bow and satchel laying all about her. The blind huntress had been sun drying some strips of meat into jerky at this spot for a couple days, and now she was enjoying her patience by nibbling on a piece. She had become creative in her cooking methods since she refused to use fire. With her free hand, Isla scratched at some of the scar tissue on her right arm, exposed thanks to the baggy linen shirt she wore having the sleeves torn off it (they had been awfully puffy and simply got in her way). The off white men's shirt was tucked into some actually well fitting, if not tight, brown rough pants. She had traded for them a couple of months ago, needing the pockets it afforded for her small daggers she was so fond of. The 24 year old carried some basic, flat sandals in her bag, but almost always walked barefoot. The feel of the earth beneath her feet often guided her and shoes simply got in the way. Because of this, her slender feet were usually caked in dirt, leaving footprints if she dared enter an actual establishment. For now though, Isla was enjoying a cluster of trees and creek around some rolling hills. She often felt more at home alone like this than in villages anyway.

Isla swallowed the last bit of the jerky piece she'd been chewing, before fiddling with the edges of the dark hood hanging out around her neck. Her grey, white eyes stared aimlessly out in front of her, wisps of dark brown hair tickling her features occasionally when a crisp breeze would float by. Despite the state of her feet, they were very clean fingers that ran along the edge of the cloak before pulling it up and over her figure. Methodically, as if she had all the time in the world, Isla began packing her things, one ear listening to her own noise, the other ear taking in every other noise around her. While packing she also sniffed the air periodically, feeling in her gut that a settlement was merely a half days walk away.

It was a time for celebration, but also a time of preparation. Well...Now that it was repeated without context, you'd think it was entirely true. Yes, there was a very important event for MiddleSeed just around the corner, but there was also everything else outside of the bubble that was the town itself. The people did the best they could to block out the political downfalls of both their Kingdom and Outside regions. Places that were involving conflict and death, places that were falling apart just because one did not get along with another. They were very good at isolating themselves from reality.

But for now, there was something of great importance. As part of a much larger Musician's Union forged straight out of the old local Musician's Guild, the Concert of the Talof was afoot. MiddleSeed, much like many of the realm's settlements and cities, that inherited such a natural talent for the musical arts were amongst some of the more hoping of places. Annually, a selection process of voting would go through for these competing locations to gain the honour of hosting the concert in their own grounds. This year was big for MiddleSeed. This year, was their turn. Using materials from their richer quarry they owned the rights to, an open-air viewing and performance area was built in-between both the Village of MiddleSeed and the neighbouring Village of RiverSeed. It was a big time for them all, including those far from the settlement itself. The Concert was usually played to the Lords and Mistresses of the Cities alike, which attracted many musicians from all around. And from that, that brought Fae.

Now Fae, despite who he really was, was not the best of musicians. He could play well, he could play right...It was just his relation to some of the more mastered types. MiddleSeed was generally quite a peaceful settlement in the terms of the conflict, which made it easy for him to practice. It being under the Sarkath Doctrine, and with good protection and insurance from Thalburn's tyranny, it made it a risky task to raid. Though the King of Thalburn himself was not attending this concert, he had to allow it to take place on his 'Righteous Land'. Of course, with it only being within three days of now, the Village was filling up on the outskirts with small makeshift tents to accommodate for the performers. Well...There were only 35 of them performing. It usually went around through a different roster, meaning every Musician either with a minor partnership to the Union or relevance to them would get a chance to perform there. Even for a man who was used to the old recent years of violence and uprising...He still had time to play that sweet cello tune. Only a few more musicians were expected to turn up at this point, but that didn't bother Fae.

What did concern him, however, was that Thalburn were becoming more involved. He knew it. The streets had an extra garrison of Thalburn Militia, as if they were trying to segment off areas. Knowing the way they usually worked...Someone was getting pulled from public eye under suspicion. They always did it. And then, once gone, forever gone. This was the life MiddleSeed's secret refugees lived. The excitement of something regular, and the fear of the nearby foe that was right on their doorstep.

Time would eventually arise for Jin to stop swinging the ax against the tree. Enough chopping had been completed that Jin began to tie a rope around a desired area of the tree. Strategically or with precision, Jin tugged and pulled. Soon loud cracks bellowed from the tree as it began to fall. Luckily, Jin did not get hit. Standing not far from the fallen specimen, Jin reached in his pocket and pulled out a sharpening stone or whetstone and began using it accordingly.

Once the ax became sharp enough, Jin would debranch the tree. Smaller, much lighter twigs and branches would be located to a certain pile. Whereas sizable branches would be placed into another pile. After the branches were taken care of, Jin began preparing the tree and cutting it down to desired sizes or portions. Some would be used for firewood, other or certain sections of the lumber would be set aside for another project at hand.



The man hosted a decently sized bag upon his back. Cautiously, yet nonchalantly, one foot went before the other. Dangling below his pack were several metal rod like needles created of his magi-metal. Occasionally emitting a ring or chime while walking as they hit into one-another. Sword hung by his waist, within a sheath, left side. Resting on the shoulders, was a spear/lance, each wrist draped over for support and comfort. The man looked hot, the coat currently being worn was not for summer weather by far. Though, not only was bag full, but Lance did not feel like removing it.

Seeking a village which passerby proclaimed it's name to be "Moonbright". Currently, Lance was searching. Not for something, but someone. The individual which Lance looked for was not any of his siblings or family. In fact, the person was an old friend of his own. Only problem stemmed from lack of information of his friends whereabouts. Lance was also quiet reluctant to explain his pursuits to just anyone. Walking led him into a small forest-thicket type area, for if traveling continued onward Moonbright Village was rumored to be discovered. Spotting a creek in the distance, the clangs and rings of his movements could be heard during his approach of the water source. Dropping to a kneel, Lance inspected the small river. Before Lance even attempted to replenish his water flask, or drink it himself, a palm full of the creek's water was acquired and inspected. To sedate his worry or 'better judgment', this water would need to be 'purified' or brought to a boil to ensure it was safe for consumption.

Isla

The cloaked young woman had collected almost all of her items, when an unnatural sound went off in the distance. Like a cautious deer, Isla instantly seized up except for her head. She had one hand reaching out towards her satchel, but it was frozen while her head moved in little twitches so her ear was more directed towards this chime.

The metallic noise rung out again, and Isla scrambled, pulling the last of her effects to her person and sliding off the large boulder. Her back and head pressed against the stone, cheek to the surprisingly smooth surface while her lithe fingers slid a small dagger from a pocket. Only the tip of her nose and below escaped the shade of her hood, and the fingers which held her weapon had pink scars tearing through them, looking like climbing flames ironically. It all gave her a rather menacing appearance. Her breath seemed so incredibly audible to her, but she knew the sighted wouldn't notice like she did. Not to mention whoever was walking up to this very spot was making enough noise to scare everything nearby. There would be no way they would perceive her breathing.

Finally the progressively louder metal sounds were so close, Isla gripped her weapon in preparation to fight. But instead of continuing, the noisy traveller paused before reaching her. A tiny splash of water. Thudding leather. Who knew how many weapons this person carried? It had to be many. Isla swallowed hard, hilt of her dagger pressed onto her palm and blade peeking between her fingers. This was always the part where she had a choice to make. Yell friend or foe? Yell human or magi? Stay quiet and hope she escaped notice? Attack unprovoked? The last option was one she'd never used though she couldn't say the same for others who had run across her.

Isla thought quickly and came to the conclusion that whoever was simply a few feet on the other side of the boulder must be incredibly weighted with all this clanging metal. She was confident that if she could determine their intentions before they could rid themselves of the load, then she had every ability to escape. So the woman closed her ineffective eyes, her rarely used voice on the deeper side for a woman but cracking slightly - "Friend or foe?"

Jinx Haven

"Eighty-five degree's north and twenty-nine degrees west. Are you sure Fretta? I brought your granddaughter that watch, so you better not be lying to me."

Jinx was horizontal to the road, her boots kicking at the dirt as she tried to push the straggles of curled hair off of her face. She had her hood on to hide the blueish white skin tone and scars, but her hair was always trying to escape any restraint she placed on it. A grizzled old soul of a woman stood in front of her pointing to the thick woods to the right. The woman nodded, despite the crink in her skeleton,"LIKE I SAID! Follow that way and you will find a good enough cliff to get a good overview of the village. I remember the spot like it was yesterday. Rinaldo and me spent many a night on that hill."

Jinx shivered, envisioning this tiny little corpse getting it on with a smarmy little Italian man. "Ya....Thanks Fretta If you're still moping around the road I will come back to see you in a bit, but for Christ's sake try to move on. Rinaldo might be waiting."

Frettaa laughed,"That old crone! That man is still alive and kicking. Riddled with the crabs, I hope. Anyway..I will see you again, cold one."

Jinx shook her head, adjusting her pack as she headed into the woods, her boots kicking up dirt as she pulled out her compass and headed into the dark. The forest itself was busy with the sounds of birds, the whistling of leaves and a mild thunk that Jinx judged was a woodpecker or some other beast. Her white eyes glazed over the greenery, looking over every stump or tree to indicate where she had traveled. She kept moving forward, the pains of lethargy not really a concern to her, unfortunately the same couldn't be said about the pangs of hunger. It had been two weeks since she could afford to consume something and even if eating wasn't entirely necessary, her body craved food just like everyone else on this god-forsaken planet. A growl erupted from her stomach, bringing her back from her thoughts and out of nowhere she noted a berry bush highlighted by a split in the green canopy. She licked her lips, eyeing the fruit as if it was a godsend. She darted over at full speed, ripping off the small globes to shove them into her mouth. They tasted good. Slightly sour but delicious, the nectar was..the nectar was..NUMB!?!

"FUCK! I am so damn stuppeeee.."

Jinx turned rigid, her limbs going numb as she slumped forward, hitting the side of a stump as she rolled onto her back. She foamed slightly at the mouth, her eyes rolling back as she flailed. Great! Good one Jinx! What did we say last time, look before you eat!! You better hope some direwolf doesn't come and take your leg again. Shit...I really have a death wish. It wasn't long before a blackness faded over her, leaving her body open to the wilderness as the effects of the deadly poison took it's toll.

Fae heard a knock on his door. As he drew himself away from his prize-possession, a sigh let itself lose from his jaws whilst his right hand opened the bolts and handle to see who'd be knocking at this time. Yet before the door was even open so much as to see who this individual, or group, was, the figure pushed through the door-way. Faran Ge'Cao, a somewhat mystical acquaintance to Fae. With a grin on his face, he would always barge inside as if they were best friends. Truth was, Fae was never really fond of the man. A magi with a strange personality, even for someone laying low he was odd.

The two had been in touch with one another since the downfall of the rebellion. Both of which the two fought in, they were now laying low in this town committing to the secret duties that the Thalburn Guardsmen were trying to root out. Whilst Fae had been on the sabotage and less-struggling frontal confrontations, especially with how his Magi ability worked, Faran was more of the straight on assault type of man. He was older than Fae, only by about 5 years, and was powerful with the ability he contained within his blood. In some areas, Fae feared the man. He was suspicious, and not always referring his actions to benefit the Rebellion he was a part of, as if he had moved onto new morals. Fae hoped dearly that he had not moved on...

"Fae, my friend...All set for your Big Night, I see?" Before he gave Fae the chance to reply after rudely invading his home as if it were his own, he continued in a huskering voice. "Lot of people coming in just to play at one small gig...Strange isn't it?" He was replied with a frown.

"It's not strange, y'know...This town is renown for the connections to the Musician's Union. We've been blessed with an honour like this..."

"Pfft...More like a blessing of boredom...Where's the extra living, you know? Go out and kill something like we used to back in the day...Maybe an old woman in a shack, just sitting and rotting away watching her cabbages grow forever..."

"You know very well that we do not do that...We sore an oath to maintain a worthy amount of peace with complete and utter reason, hence why we started this mess in the first place. And here we are, having you suggest we go defy the bloody o-" He was interrupted by a grinning Faran. He thought that it was just a one off experience, and that Fae was only reacting because he could. Truth was, he always was like this...Because Faran was an immoral imbecile.

"Shhh...You are so mellow-dramatic. Anyway...I'll let you go to your little Concert...Expect me to pop back if there are any problems...y'know that the amount of people freely coming into MiddleSeed makes me worried of who they might actually be."

And after that, he waltzed out of the door in the similar fashion to how he entered. After waiting in silence for the door to close, Fae let out a gigantic sigh of relief. Now he could tend to his precious tool in silence, with the sun nearing dusk. Once it would've gone over the horizon, the Concert will have started, and eight acts in, the MiddleSeed Triplet would've entered. The Triplet simply consisted of three local Cellists, Ronan Harrit, Rosalina Oslo and Fae Nikia. All at a similar skill level, they divided the parts up of who got what part evenly and fairly. But with only one song being allowed for the gig, there had to be a very difficult choice of what they were to play.

The three were good friends indeed. They knew a lot about one another, minus the fact that Fae was a half-blood Magi, or that his past recognition name of Vy' Na. It wasn't like he did not trust them or anything, but with the Militia occupying the village based on the concert, and the Sarkath Doctrine, there was too much of a risk if they knew. They didn't hate them or anything, Rosalina being a Human and Ronan being a Magi himself. Besides that, all he had to do was focus on his concert. Packing his cello into a rugged casing crafted by the local tailor, he set outside to trek towards the staging and performing area of the concert. He knew that Faran would not intrude him there. And he hoped that Faran would not do anything too stupid that could endanger himself, the Ty' Un rebellion or simply Fae himself. Hope never got him very far, anyway...

Reaching a decent stopping point, or time for a break, Jin stepped away from work at hand. Hard labor left the man, to his perception, covered in sweat and 'gross'. Finding a suitable spot to rest the ax, Jin began to leave the clearing of where his home stood. Direction headed was none other than a nearby lake. Before the departure Jin grabbed two buckets for fetching water.

While traveling back and forth to this lake, Jin always made sure to be cautious. Trying to observe or find any 'changes' or outright tracks of possible people traveling through the area. Not only did he find what he commonly watched out for, Jin found a body. Quickening his paces Jin reaches the stump located nearby Jinx who laid on the ground motionless. Taking one final check of the surrounding area, Jin kneels down. Taking another look of the scenario at hand, he adds up what happened. Spotting the nearby snakethorn bush, Jin shakes his head in sadness. Though an idea enters his mind, looking around, Jin finds something of need. A small flower-brush which could be turned into an anti-poison for the Snakeberry poison.

Using a rock and the bottom-side of one of the buckets, Jin essentially utilized a 'makeshift' mortar and pestle. Grabbing a flask of water which he had on person, Jin took the 'antidote' and used the water to cause Jinx to consume it. IF one were to observe Jin performing these actions, they would easily notice this wasn't the first time it'd happened. Once the task was completed, Jin jumped from shock. Foolishly failing to check beforehand, Jin now realized how cold Jinx was. Body temperature resembled someone who'd been dead for hours or even longer. Upon this realization and after his minor 'jump', Jin emitted a heavy sigh of sorrow. "Snakethorn claims another victim." Were the only words Jin mustered before picking up Jinx. Jinx slung over his shoulder, Jin began his return to home.

Leaving the body or corpse, would only provoke wildlife to come and take it as a meal. Then it would only be a matter of time before the dire-animal which indulged in the feast wandered over to Jin's cabin. Something Jin would strongly like to avoid. Not to mention, Jin couldn't very well feel OK with the concept of leaving someone dead without a proper burial. Laying Jinx down not far from his cabin, Jin goes to retrieve a shovel while putting the buckets back. Once the body was buried, he would continue with what he originally planned. So grabbing the body again, Jin walked over to the outskirts of the clearing, walking several trees or feet into the forest. Where he would start digging the grave.



After hearing the words 'friend or foe' Lance directs attention towards Isla. One wouldn't say Lance's facial expression was ice-cold, but it would easily be perceived as monotonous. Immediately upon locking eyes on her, Lance began studying the individual. Taking various mental notes of everything he saw or even assumed. Yet all those thoughts occurred behind the scenes, so to speak. Without hesitation or pause, Lance responded to the words spoken to himself. "Since you asked instead of outright attacked. I'd have to say I'm not your foe." Continuing to observe the woman, a question arises.

"Now it's my turn to ask a question. Feel free to not answer. How strong is your eye-sight? Not only were your eyes closed for quite some time while asking me your question, but they are no ordinary color. Or at least, the only individuals I've seen with such eye-colors are in fact blind." Lance did not stand, still at a kneel. The palm which hosted water now empty. Left and right, to surroundings, eyes flickered as Lance observed if any allies of Isla existed. Lance also looked for firewood or dubre which could be used for his process of purifying the water from the creek which he was near. However a majority or mostly all, of attention rested on Isla while he awaited her answer.

Jinx Haven

Please don't let this be piss..Oh god, please don't let the liquid running down my throat be pee. Okay..okay...not bad, tastes good. Feel a little better, eyesight's coming back, and..oh HELLO HANDSOME!

Jinx remained still, unable to move any part of her body, regardless of the fact her brain was fully functioning. Her eyesight slowly came back from the blackness and she looked up to see a black haired fella look at her with sad eyes.Hey, no need to look so sad..dude...I get it..you haven't seen curves like this before.

He gave a heavy sigh,"Snakethorn claims another victim." HAHAHA. He thinks I'm dead. Oh darling, the maggots haven't even taken root yet. Hey what are you..Okay, bit grabby on the curves Romeo but the view ain't bad.

Jinx swung nicely from side to side, as she was picked up, her view was obscured by a large lower back and a pair of glutes. She noted a sway in his walk that signified that they were walking.Shit, he left my scythe back there. I hope it isn't lost. I paid too much for that weapon. He probably didn't even notice where I put it. Damn...OH HEAVE...

Jinx felt a twitch as her body hit the ground, and she watched from an odd angle as he walked around his house grabbing a shovel.What is he doing? WAIT! IS THAT! HOLY MOTHER OF DEATH!! HE'S GONNA BURY ME! DUDE! DUDE! I'M ALIVE! COME ON, YOU'RE NOT GONNA MAKE A COFFIN OR SOMETHING? OH AND THERE HE GOES. DIGGING. SHIT! SHIT! COME ON BUDDY! WAKE UP JINX! SIGNIFY THAT YOU ARE MORE THEN JUST A CORPSE! GOD DAMN IT! NOOOO!

Jinx's eyes widened only slightly as Jin kept digging, completely aware, yet still unable to do a damn thing to stop this madness from happening.

Along the side of a road was a small wooden structure, a bar. The wood had been attacked relentlessly by the blistering sun, peeling away over the years. The windows were permanently dirtied with gruff, making it difficult to peer in and out. Inside the bar was overbearing with overlapping chatter between men and women. The bar itself wasn't very clean, the bartender was also 'unclean'. Draco however sat in the corner of the bar, next to the window. The sun fighting to peer through the window, but only a slight beam managed to break the defense of dirt, encasing his mug with rays. He raised the glass to his mouth, the violent taste of alcohol burned his mouth and throat. Draco ignored all the chatter, the soft music that was playing, however a conversation peeked his interest.

A young man, blonde and short, with a clean set of close but rough skin, began speaking to the barkeeper. The bartender was big and very bulky, but his right eye was forced close, a fresh looking scar engulfing over his eye, probably from a more recent bar fight. The young blonde man lowered his mug and began talking, "Hey, Curly?" The bartender raised his head and merely grunted in response, "You heard about Voyage? That disgusting group of mages tearing up villages all across the land." The blonde man took another swig. Draco however stopped, he focused completely on the conversation but looked as if he was off in his own world. "Yeah well anyway, one of the members left" Curly finally spoke, "Who? And why?" The blonde moved his mug, indicating a refill, "The Demon Mage, or more referred to, The Master of Demons. As for why, who knows? But a village was hit, and only 5 members were seen, same as the last three raids. And since that bounty came around, we can only assume Voyage put that bounty out." Curly began to refill the mans drink, before grinning and slightly smirking, "Well who cares, the less of them, the better, dirty mages." Curly handed the man a drink, the blonde grabbed it and again, began talking, "The bounty was released, but no picture. Only a description, 6 foot, red hair and often seen with a bird, specifically an eagle"

Draco had enough, he didn't want trouble to come again. He slowly rose from his chair, the beam slowly fading into nothing, the sun blocked from the bar. As he walked towards the exit, his hand reached for the door handle before the blonde spoke again, this time, loud and directly at Draco. "Hey you! What's your name?" His hand slid off the door handle, slowly turned his head to face the man. A man moved between Draco and the door, a big guard looking character. Draco fully turned now, his attention was on the man, but apparently the shouting attracted the whole crowd of people, all staring at him. "I asked you a question!" He add, impatient. Draco finally spoke, his soft monotone voice showed no sign of any emotion, "My name is of no concern to you. So say what you want, so I can be off." The blonde guy stood up and walked over, stopping about two arms length away. "You fit the description of a very high bounty, and you got up to leave as I started to say the description." Draco was silent, this blonde man smiling with greed. Draco shrugged, holding out his left hand, palm up, ready to hold something. His hand was in front of one of the dirty glasses, "I really wanted no trouble..." As if on command, an Eagle flew through the glass, smashing it on impact, the dark color of the sky was visible. The Eagle had a dagger in its beak, dropping it in Draco's hand before perching on his right hand. The bar was full of humans, all gathering weapons and ready to fight. "[color=00808]All around me is destruction.[/color]"

The guard was the first to make a move, grabbing Draco's arms, with no resistance from Draco. The blonde dashed towards Draco, small dagger at the ready. When he got close, he swung, aiming for Draco's neck. The last thing he saw was Draco dropping, lowering himself from the grip, the dagger slicing the guards neck. Draco raised his arm, pushing himself and extending his body towards the blonde. Draco's blade pierced the mans heart, the speed and force causing the man to fall backwards, Draco flipping over the body and landing in front of it. Blade at the ready and the crowd lowering their weapons. Draco holstered the weapon, slowly turning and exiting the building. Draco sighed, "Wherever I go, destruction and pain will follow..."

Isla

Isla could feel the gaze of the other traveler fall on her. She could only wonder if his eyes noticed her weapon or if he would be too surprised and simply try to study her face. That seemed to be what most people with eyesight did... judged someone's personality by looking at their face. Isla found other ways to judge. Smooth or jerky movements, the quiver or strength of a voice.

At the man's quick response, Isla felt a few of the tighter muscles in her body slack. She was still prepared to turn and sprint like a rabbit but for some reason, the man hadn't moved an inch. She would have heard instantly thanks to his windchime-like load, but he must have only turned his head when he heard her voice, and not his whole body. Interesting.

There was a brief pause, where Isla took in his scent from a breeze barely moving between them. Man and sweat. Not surprising. And as the man spoke again, she could hear the clear quality of his voice. He certainly wasn't afraid of her, and although slightly exerted sounding, she was sure that was from the walking he must have been doing to get to this spot.

The actual words he spoke deflated her slightly. As soon as most deduced she was blind, she was treated like a leper or like she would be easily intimidated. Neither was pleasant. This one might be different though. He'd used an awful lot of words for something that could have been asked in three words (are you blind?). But instead he gave her a choice in answering, signalling respect, and he mentioned her eyes, signalling his observance. 

"Yes, I'm blind," the woman answered matter of factly, moving both her arms now to her sides so they rested under her cloak. She let a small moment of silence occur before her curiosity spoke. "What is your name... and why are you carrying a percussion group on your person?"

The taproom of the Dancing Duck, Middleseed’s finest (and only) pub was extraordinary hot and somewhat musty that evening. Small wonder, filled to the brim as it was with sweating bodies and how hot a summer’s day it had been. The scent of food and coffee fought the sour smells of sweat and beer, and the air was brimming with loud voices and laughter. Most of these customers had taken a day off, just to be sure not to miss the festival. Bets were being placed on who would be the evening’s best performer, and some were already discussing the pieces that would be performed. Beer and wine had been flowing since early afternoon and everyone seemed to be in a good mood. A festive mood.

One of the obvious exceptions to that rule came walking into the pub just then. A tall, stern-looking fellow with a crossbow strapped to his back. His hair as dark as his expression, brows pushing deep lines into his forehead and lips pressed together firmly. His two companions entered after him, one man broad-shouldered with a weathered face, the other a more refined sort of muscular with blonde hair falling to his shoulders. The two laughed about something and shoved their stern companion into the crowd of people. Hardly anyone bothered with the three newcomers, strangers were expected during a day like today. The only one really giving any reaction of significance was a young chestnut-haired woman sitting next to a teenage boy and blonde woman who were enjoying some drinks. She smiled, waved and called out to the trio. With much effort, elbow work and muffled apologies, the three made their way to the table and somehow managed to find space to sit down.

“Glad you guys could make it, what on earth kept you so long? We took the liberty to order some food, which I hope the budget allows, Dike.” Ris said smiling, gesturing to a stack of three empty- and three full plates that were crammed together on their table. She looked up at the broad-shouldered man, waiting patiently for an explanation for his tardiness. While the other two started eating, Dike nodded appreciative at the food and started rubbing his beard as he recalled the afternoon’s events.

“Guards. More than I’d expect in a lil’ town like this, even if it’s a festival day. Seems like some Thalburn units are involved. Asked us to get rid of our weapons, looked suspicious they said.” Dike shrugged as he pulled a plate towards him. “One did remember seeing our guy, an hour or two before us. Seems you were right about his head start. Thanks to Rich we'd almost stayed there and spent the night in jail instead.” He added scuffing, earning a muffled cry of protest from Rich who had already started eating. Ris nodded thoughtfully.

“That adds up to our side, a serving girl remembers seeing him here. Presumably he ate his dinner and went about his business an hour ago. Judging from his display of arrogance in that last town I doubt he has gone into hiding. Which would be an impressive feat in itself in a town as small as this. He’ll be at the festival, probably planning to cause some sort of ruckus. I’ll explain our next steps as soon as you three finish up.” The others nodded and mumbled some approving words. Ris put her elbows on the table, interlaced her fingers and letting her head rest on top as she stared intently at Rich. “So tell us, how on earth did you manage find trouble this time Rich?”

Rich dabbed his mouth with a handkerchief and smirked slightly as he began his story. “As you all know I respect the law as much as the next person, as I was sure to inform our dear friend Guard. ‘I’ll happily leave my knives with you.’ I even told him.” He lowered his voice for a dramatic effect, whispering only loud enough for the five others at his table to hear. With a swift movement he took out a knife to illustrate his story, a bemused tone in his voice and a sly grin adorning his face. “This one’ll fit nicely between your guts, don’t you agree? Maybe it’d look better a little lower, around.. Here.” Both Dike and Levi started laughing loudly as Rich demonstrated on a startled Hilde how he had pricked the guard in places where decent folks shouldn’t be pricked. After being punched in the stomach by Hilde, Rich continued his story slightly out of breath: “Or…. Here’s another proposition. I can simply take them with me, eh? Save you.. The trouble of looking after them.' He paled like a ghost and changed his mind about confiscating my daggers fast enough... But how was I to know that pathetic excuse of a guard is the son of some union's leader?"

“Thank Lemä for the miracle of galleons in the right hands then.” Ris chuckled, leaning back and smiling broadly. “You and your damned sense of theatre will get us all killed some day.” Hilde sighed, disapproving lines stretched into her forehead, but a grin made its way to her face as well. “Shame it’s a music festival. If it’d be a competition for the best actor we’d have the winner in our midst.” Dike added with a big smile. They all laughed heartily at, Rich made a mocking bow and even Romeo seemed a little less stern than usual.

After their dinner the group split up, Dike and Romeo would stay behind to keep an eye on the swiftly emptying pub and the main street to make sure their target wouldn’t slip back into town unnoticed while the others were at the festival. Rich protested against the idea of leaveing his comfortable seat "With beautiful view" he had added, winking at one of the serving girls, but he gave up soon enough as he caught eye of Ris her expression. The time for jokes and laughter was over. It was time to hunt.

A shame that she hadn’t been able to bring her violin, Ris pondered as they crossed to the northern side of the nearly abandoned town. Then again, she wouldn’t be allowed to take part in the concert since she wasn’t a union member and besides, the violin case would only get in her way when chasing their mark. She silently promised herself to perform in the next edition of the Concert of the Talof, a nice thought which wouldn’t be likely to become reality.

It was only a short walk but the sun had already set before they found the town’s inhabitants, scattered across the grass and on some rough walnut benches. A collection of seemingly important people -or at the very least very rich ones judging by their clothes- had been seated in a colourfully decorated gallery closest to the stage. Despite the enormous crowd, it was fairly silent on the meadow and a beautiful melody could be heard. A drum, several flutes and some instruments Ris couldn’t quite distinguish. Without even noticing it she adjusted her tempo to the music as she walked around, clenching and unclenching her fists. Searching the crowd for a familiar face. There were so many people here… An applause signified the end of this performance and a jovial man entered the stage, announcing that the next troop would be the sixth act. He said a lot of other things that Ris hardly payed attention to.

Walking around, waiting, checking if the others had noticed their target, watching, listening, checking for anything out of the ordinary. Act seven, eight and nine had slipped by without any progress.

Come on Faran, I don’t have all night… I need to get a better look at this crowd... Ris thought to herself. The stage had been erected a fair end out of town and she didn’t trust her acrobatic skills enough to try and climb the gallery, which was the tallest structure on the field. The gallery... That might be it! Hurrying her pace, Ris rushed forward as fast as she could without bumping into too many spectators. If Faran was planning something, he would doubtless do so near the stage, drama-queen that he was. And if she was lucky, Ris might just know one of the high-ranking invites and get access to the gallery itself, from which she could observe the crowd more easily. Why hadn’t she thought of that earlier?

Just as the eleventh act was starting, everyone was startled by a loud scream. Within seconds flaming tongues started licking the left side of the gallery and both musicians and spectators began scattering. Panicked screams and shouts filled the air with a horrific new tune. The flames joined in, roaring, devouring the dry grass and gallery not far from where Ris was standing. The bright light made it easy to spot several fighting figures of whom one was unmistakably Hilde with her spear and shield. Rich quickly fell in beside her, fighting none other than Faran, who was setting fire on any who came too close. Ris took out her bow, but in all of the confusion and with the panicking spectators running around it would be impossible to get a clear shot without any innocent bystanders getting hurt. A group of guards appeared under the impression that Hilde and Rich were the culprits, moving in to fight them. Giving up on her bow, Ris took out her knives and darted forward, coming to Hilde and Rich’ aid who were now busy keeping the guards off' them, shouting how they weren't the ones the guards should be after.

As soon as she spotted Ris, Hilde pointed behind her at the village and boomed over the roaring flames, shouts and colliding metal: "He went that way, I think Levi is on his track. Go Ris, we'll manage here." It took Ris a moment to assess the situation but she soon realised Hilde was right. With a nodd Ris turned around, quickly running along with the crowd in search of Levi.

It took her surprising little time to find the boy, bent over with his hands on his knees, catching his breath in an alleyway. Luckily for them Middleseed wasn't a large town. "Lady Roussin, he went.. Into that house, m'am." The boy said huffing and puffing. Ris lay her hand on his shoulder and nodded respectfully. "Good job Levi, go and find Romeo and Dike as fast as you can and bring them here. I'll need them to break open the door. Understood?" All fatigue seemed forgotten within moments and after some sort of salute the boy darted off. A big smile on his face.

Ris took her time stringing her bow now, watching the house Levi had pointed out for any suspicious movement. It seemed like an ordinary enough house, large enough for a small family like most houses in thise town. But now that she payed close attention she noticed a faint but obviously recent burnmark on the front door. I was clear that this was the house she needed. Ris was tempted to burst in by herself, but the thought that she'd decorate Faran's face with some of her feathers if he would be kind enough to show his face outside that door was satisfying enough for now.

Finally the grave would be dug, though the depth of the spot was nowhere near four feet. Jin then grabbed (Jinx) the body and placed it into the respective spot. Grasping the shovel again Jin slowly began to cover the grave, and Jinx, with the pile of loose dirt obtained by digging the spot in the first place. Once the task was completed, Jin looked around for something to serve as a headstone. Yet no luck in that situation simply led him to leave and return towards his home.

Reaching the cabin, Jin would put the shovel to it's respective place, then go for the two buckets again. Standing outside the cabin, something odd took place. Jin absolutely hated the feeling which was currently being endured. The feeling of being watched. Motionless the man stood, studying the surroundings, waiting for any sort of movement within the treeline which surrounded his home. Currently, Jin noticed nothing out of ordinary. Nor did Jin spot any dangerous plantlife lurking nearby. So merely waited where he stood for the time being.



Lance released a small chuckle when hearing Isla's question. Now a pivotal point arose. Lance possessed several different stories or responses which he could pitch when someone asked about all his metal/equipment. Outright telling people his status as a Magi, was highly unfavorable out of his options. Simply due to the negative reactions it could cause. Not sure if Isla noticed beforehand, Lance flicked at the spear on his back, along with rustled the sheath holding the bastard-sword at his hip. "Blacksmiths tend to be easier with repair-costs when you possess metal on-hand. Since then they do not have to forfit the materials and only supply their labor or skill with a hammer."

The answer which Lance gave was his most commonly used one. Not only did it make the most sense, but this answer was given to him as advice from an old friend. Sadly enough, this 'old-friend' was someone who he hoped to never see or cross paths with again. Almost as though he forgot, he also stated. "Oh, almost slipped my mind. My name is Lance. It's a pleasure to meet you. And you are?" Taking into consideration Isla was blind, Lance gazed properly at their surroundings. Noticing her weapons, well her bow. Lance couldn't help but wonder how she was able to accurately shoot or aim with her hindrance of lacking eyesight. Though figured it was far to soon in their meeting to be asking such questions.

Why is it people do this? was the only question he had running through his mind as he rushed towards the now burning stage. A few hours earlier he had walked into town hoping to listen to some music and enjoy the company of some fellow music lovers near the stage. This festival was supposed to be one of the best to occur.

Now that festival was ruined and the once sturdy stage was a huge hazard to many near it. Thankfully, the heat was pushing many people away, but the flames rapidly deconstructing the wooden structure didn't care about trapping them underneath the dismantled parts. Using his talent, Darius subtly reinforced and slowed the fall of several beams so he could help people get those already hurt away from the burning structure. Once he was sure they were safe, he stopped using his talent and looked for others that were potentially in trouble.

Spotting two people fighting some guards, he started running towards them to see if he could keep the conflict from escalating. Hey, what the heck is going on?! he shouted as he got closer, hoping to disrupt the fight long enough to get some explanations going.

This was really happening. Finally, on the stage in front of lords and ladies, generals and captains and those of other high importance in order to gain recognition from another persona. Though the recognition could possess some danger to his true identity, he could not care less. A goal that he always wished to pursue had finally been set into plan, and he was to succeed with the help of his friends, Rosalina and Ronan. The wonders that the life of tranquillity amongst some of the most well known musicians was truly enticing. If only they could play more than one song, maybe the name for themselves would be higher and greater! And now, gathered around the waiting queue of performers, they listened to what they were playing alongside.

At the current time, a beautiful harmony of four reed-based instruments, unique to those of the players that used them. The originality to their pace, movement and instrument alone was enough to entice the audience, as quiet and almost inaudible whispers bustled around in appreciation and approval of their ability and skill. Jealousy would fling through anyone at this point, especially when seated next in line for a performance. Nerves would usually kick in at this point, but what was there to go wrong? Fae had practised this many times, over and over with the group, until they thought it was perfect. And to be honest, it could not get any better in how they played it. On the Bass part of the song, Ronan would take that role for the specified song that they had chosen. Usually, Fae was known for taking that spot, filling in the necessary parts rather than the more impressive ones. However, Ronan himself thought that it were a better idea for Fae to get used to playing the First Part, Rosalina also taking the Second Part to mix in with the tune, darting in and out of it like a cage fighter.

And so, he could hear the applause. All three of one another stared at one another. It was time, indeed. A good time, though. It was a festival of celebration, and in these next few minutes, they would lead the joy and happiness that was to come. Truly remarkable as an experience, and truly beautiful for the ideals of peace and unity. Just the way Fae enjoyed it.

One by one, the three walked onto the open-air staging with claps from the audience. Despite the desperate times in the realm, no one here could resist but to smile, even Fae himself. The trio took the cushioned chair that had been laid out by the stage hands and organised them into a reverse arrow, pointing away from where they'd be playing. Ronan sat in the centre, Rosalina to his right and Fae to his left. This would balance out the focus, making Ronan, who had less boast of in this tune, more centred than the two actually playing more complex riffs. Towards the back, a session percussionist sat, waiting for the song to start. She'd practised the song a few times, as any session musician would do, and was prepared to simply add the basic backing beats to accompany them.

And so, as the crowd had settled, one by one, they looked each other in the eyes. Fae to crowd. Crowd to Fae. Fae to Ronan and Rosalina. Rosalina and Ronan to Crowd. Crowd to Rosalina and Ronan. Ronan to the woman in the engineering clothing. The cycle continued forever, it seemed, before they gave the nod of rhythmic patterning. And eventually...They began to play...



Some of the crowd smiled in appreciation as one by one the parts filled and mixed into one another's. Fae held a posture of complete concentration, not wanting to mess up any of the melody's notes or rhythmic timings. And to say from the perspective of both the crowd and the triplet themselves, he did a fine job at it. All of them did. Flawless in comparison to their practices beforehand, as if the audience in front of them had let out an inner perfection within their skill. Some of the guards posted even ended their conversations to simply listen. The synchronisation of both randomised slurred notes from both of the tunes, mixing with the staccato notes played by Ronan's backing.

Within time, the song seized, and the uproar of hands clasping against one another repetitively brought more than just a smile to the three cellists. The took to their feet, and bowed as accordingly, arms resting on the neck of each instrument whilst the back did all the movement. And off they took, down to the stage's exit route. That was it. They were done.

"That was incredible! Did you see their reactions?" Fae could hardly contain his self-approval and joy.

"If I saw that reaction again, I'd probably cry with happiness. And then do it all again...You guys really hailed the spot out there, and made sure to swing into their appreciation." Ronan grinned uncontrollably. He held out the hand of a farewell, as they were all to retire to their homes for the evening until the end of the concert entirely.

"Not without your help and rhythmic synchronisation! Now...I'll get off to pop this lovely thing back into its case...I'll let you guys know when we're heading out again for the closing ceremony!" Shaking the hands of both of his comrades in the musical industry, he lifted his instrument and headed off to the town's single-house district, where he hoped to settle down for a short while. If only that were the case...And the upcoming events weren't to distort that future he hoped to live.

Time passed. The cogs within the clock ticked away as the silence was disturbed by a noise outside. It lasted for a while. Shouts of some sort. Maybe laughter over an act? Or the ruckus of a delay? It wasn't something he was going to investigate. He couldn't. He had to remain indoors.

More and more time passed, and a sense of anxiousness would start to swell up in Fae's mind and body. The noise was loud, even though it was faint through the walls. But a creaking sound from the floors and supports made it something to become paranoid about. As if it were an issue that would lead to something horrendous, he simply waited. And in order to feel more comfortable, he headed into the main room, slipping on the webbing forged similarly to his Ty' Un gear from the days of the past. It gave a psychological thought of protection. Though itself was not a suit of armour like those of the Guardsmen that were now patrolling the area outside his windows and street, it gave a small amount of minor-stabbing resistance, as well as defence from impact on natural flooring and surfaces. The same room held his weaponry, one of which was the Thalburn Medium-to-Long ranged crossbow, designed to be more resilient than the typical wooden kind found by most mercenaries and villages. He was not expecting to use it, but that sense of safety was always a kind thing to deliver...Especially when the noises were getting more clear.

As if it were a gust of wind, the door swung open, with a rush of heat pouring inside. That instant, that heat that rushed in...It only followed to one answer he knew that was right, one that was painfully annoying to know. Faran. And to his real surprise, he was right...Except this time, Faran had a look of panic aboard his expression, as if there were an issue. As he entered, the supports in the roofing creaked...

"F-Fuck...Fae...Fae the-...They're here..." He began with a mouth full of breathlessness. Air sucked in and out of his lungs with quick rapidity, as if it were a race. Something wasn't right...Why had he came here? And why would he be worried of all people? "It's...It's...The Bounty Hunters...the ones after me...A-And...And I saw things...On the roofs...Armoured men like no other...just...Leaping as if in pursuit of me...I...I don't know if they are after me...After you...You think it's about the Ty' Un? About our participation in th-"

The sound of landing boots forced them to break speech, swinging around. Fitting, only just, the description of what Faran had stated, draped with clothing that concealed the face. A dagger in one hand, and an instrument of destruction in the other. They met eye to eye, looking at one another in almost near silence. Another faded out of the shadows of the roof-struts, looking down from an open hole created in the side of the house. Their hands, both contained the same weaponry. A blade, supplied straight from the Thalburn armament. Fae could tell...The recent increase in handheld weaponry exports from MiddleSeed had risen by 20%, and those fit the same design as the ones he'd watch the blacksmiths make. The other tool, was of the new age weaponry. A handheld cannon, as it was nicknamed, it held canister ammunition designed to fire small shrapnel or metal projectiles out at a further, if not then similar, ranges as the crossbows of the majority's marksmen. Ammunition was generally made within villages like MiddleSeed, a foothold into their production as they hoped to eventually grow into a mass number. Once again, Fae knew this because of the plans he'd once exported to those of companions further up the villages, in the hopes they'd reach some form of Ty' Un Blacksmith.

The one on the floor made contact through vocalisation, speaking through the clothing that concealed her facial identifications, minus the eyes. It was low, threatening and slightly disturbing, seeing the weapons drawn alongside to what she was saying.

"Well, well, well...Two birds...One stone...Sweet of you to lead us to another comrade of yours, Mr. Ge'Cao...Gives us less time hunting and more time to relax..." Fae could sense the grin of satisfaction from her tone. But that would've soon faded once Faran had used his burning hands to have propelled himself off of Fae's chest, pushing him down to allow himself to escape as he darted towards the window. A quick reflex from the hunter's left arm as she raised the Hand-Cannon, firing whilst the echo boomed through the confinement of the building. With the ring being a success, the projectile found its target into the wall, just right of Faran's head. He leapt, flinging his body through the nearest window as he continued his escape.

But the Hunter in front of the staggering Fae did not move from her position, instead signalling for her companion to go after Faran, or to report the encounter...Either one was up for debate. Meanwhile, the clothed woman turned back to Fae, who was now standing, in a defensive posture. His legs shuffled to the left, drawing his arm, holding him up whilst he leaned against the dining table, towards the display holsters for his trusted side weapons, the duel hatchets, equipped with a pike's blade on the hilt of one, and the hook of a farming scythe on the other.

Watching his every movement, the Hunter narrowed her eyes, only then noticing him make the move for his weapons. Her body thrusted forward, like the projectile she had fired only seconds ago, as her drawn dagger collided with something of the same material. A quick reflex had saved Fae from the first strike, allowing a hardened boot to kick back the attacker. Furniture moved out of line as the steam-rolling hunter barged a path throughout their blockade. His hatchets now drawn from their display, a fair fight was on board...Trained hunter, versus experienced Guerrilla...She scrambled to her feet quickly, gaining an attacking posture.

"You just gave me a reason to gut you where you stand...I have all the proof I need to justify this..." A battle-cry lunged from her lungs and lips, as she made another attempt to swing. There was not a chance that Fae could pull off another blockage through his Hatchets, meaning that he could only attempt to avoid her strikes. There was no chance of him ever using the Crossbow holstered onto his back, either...Especially with his ammunition elsewhere, and the time it would take to aim and fire at this close of a range. Darting across the marble floor, he slid a couple of metres to her left, trying to get past her. This only resulted in him colliding into her warpath, causing the two to end up on the floor once more. Fae grunted...This wasn't a generic one-versus-one, where swings and skillful move sets were brought upon one another to create quite a sight...This was a fight simply of improvisation, one that would end very quickly with one or the other dead.

The hunter was closer to the door. The door itself was not of anything impressive. Weak material, only designed to keep the weather out, but not Guards of the Thalburn, it could easily be broken or simply knocked out of lock by applying sudden force to it. This hunter gained a footing, just about as the time Fae had also. The two were not fully in a stance ready to combat again, but the knowledge of his own homestead gave Fae a slight upper-hand. He ran, not even in a gripped posture, and tackled his arms and shoulders into her gut, pushing her back against the door.

Unaware of who may be standing on the other side, a few seconds passed of the two recovering from the fall onto the stoned pavement outside. This was it, it was act now, or never act again. Without any hesitation, and sure enough regret that was soon to follow, he raised his left arm, containing the hatchet with the Pike's blade. It was instinct. The will to survive the fight...The arm came down, piercing her chest and lightly dabbed armour, before the blade dug out of her body, before the motion was repeated...again...and again...and again...Stabbing quickly without realisation, he totalled 11 thrusts before his arm stopped, as well as the struggling of the woman, who's scream had faded off. The hunter was dead, a hunter with an insignia of Thalburn Militarisation upon her shoulder...To think an hour ago, he was playing to an audience, and now killing the first human since the refuge of the Ty' Un...

Isla

Isla smirked slightly when the person chuckled, but it disappeared as she heard his pause before explaining the metal.

"Hmm," was all she responded with though, turning her dagger over once before hesitantly sliding it back in its pocket. She didn't quite believe him, but he still didn't seem like an immediate danger.

"Isla," she answered him, realizing there wasn't much sense in keeping her face covered if he'd already noticed her blindness. So she lifted her arms and moved the cloak hood back. Her eyes seemed to stare above him rather than directly where they should. 

"It's nice to meet you as well, Lance. Do you know if there is a village nearby? And if it's human-friendly?" Isla asked, her natural voice much more melodic and smooth when not nervous like she had been upon first meeting the man.

Lance's responded. "You're more than welcome to accompany me. Not only is there a nearby village, but I'm headed towards it. The place is called Moonbright Village. It is Human-friendly. From what I hear they are not fond of Magi, yet don't exactly kill them on sight if one passes through. Merely allow them to pay or trade for resources needed, then with a hurried attitude send them away." Lance paused for a moment, not sure if his purpose should be told to Isla. Though goes on a whim and explains anyways. "I warn you now. My appearance there may not be welcome once I begin pursuit of my goal. I need to find information on 'a man who wields flames of darkness'. Such questioning or detail gathering could attract negative attention, no doubt. I've been hunting this man for several months now, so if you have any information on him. I'd be appreciative if you shared it with me." Part of what Lance stated was truth. In fact he was looking for a 'man who wielded black-flames', though he wasn't exactly hunting the man.

Isla

Isla stayed quiet for a while after Lance spoke. She was taking in everything he said and was turning it over in her head a little longer than the average person might. "I see," she eventually said quietly, only taking a little pause before speaking again this time. "I have heard of Moonbright, though I've never been there before. We can head there together," she decided. "Whether fortunate or unfortunate, I do not know of this man you seek. As you can see, flames and I don't get along. I'm not sure I'd like to confront such a magic user. But I'm used to being shoo'd away anyway, so that won't matter to me." Isla lifted her arms, showing the dazzling scars trailing from her fingertips to her elbows. The scars, her blindness, and the cloak were what seemed to make so many uncomfortable and caused her to be unwelcome even among the humans at times. She lowered her arms again and tilted her head in a questioning fashion. "Shall we leave?"

On that note, Lance stood, they took their leave of the small creek. While walking, Lance asked another question. "Why are you concerned on Moonbright's acceptance of magi? I understand if you wish to not answer, though i'm still curious." Lance doubted she would answer, or give him indication of her heritage. Yet Lance, even not looking so, was constantly on guard. Better yet, the man didn't know how to relax or ease said guard. Not only was he waiting to see if something said would trigger a negative outcome between himself and Isla. But a part of himself always awaited danger which could theoretically lurk around any corner or moment. As before, each step or every so many steps. The metal rods or needles dangling from his bag would chime as they collided with one another as consequence of his movements.

Isla

Isla gave a slightly surprised look at Lance's question, walking near enough to the man. After all, it would be hard to lose him considering the metal sounds emanating with every step. "I'm not concerned with their acceptance of Magi, but their acceptance of humans."

NOOOO! GOD DAMN IT! IF YOU PUT ME IN THAT HOLE SO HELP ME I AM GOING TO UNLEASH HORRIBLE POLTERGEISTS ON EVERY...AHHHHHH! Shit I'm in the hole.

Jinx didn't move as Jin picked her up and placed her in the shallow grave. The sides of the pits cracking off and falling on her clothes as he turned away to grab the shovel. Her face turned towards the dirt as suddenly light droplets of dirt began to hit her form. MOVE YOU STUPID BODY! STUPID BERRIES! AGHHHHHHHHH! Okay okay..calm down Jinx..it's just dirt. Breathing is for chumps anyway, and that closing in feeling is just like getting snuggled in a cold, damp sleeping bag. Don't let the crippling fear of suffocation get you down. Good news is you'll add this to the bucket list of things you have never done before. OH SHIT IS THAT DIRT ON MY FACE. EWW.HEY HEY! WHAT IS THAT? GET THE FUCK OUT OF THERE WORM! YOU WEREN'T INVITED TO THE PARTY.

After a few minutes after the grave was filled, Jinx began to retain some feeling in her fingers.The grave was silent, the dirt slowly growing compact around Jinx's mute form. CAN'T BREATHE! Holy shit this is painful. I mean I won't die, but I am in a very uncomfortable position right now. I got to get the fuck out of here! Wait a minute. I didn't hear a sermons. Dude buries me and can't even come up with some decent final words. 'Cute dead gal.' 'She had nice cans!' 'NOOOO!! WHY DID YOU TAKE SUCH A BEAUTIFUL CREATURE!" Nothing. Nice. Okay this is becoming way more painful to ignore. Oh! got a hand! Two hands..Oh here we go baby. Come back to me sweet life..lift me out of this dark, dirty hell!

After a few long moments the dirt on top of the grave shifted, moving up and down when suddenly a bluish hand erupted from the ground, gripping the grass along the edge of the dirt. It wasn't long before a second followed, and then a head and upper torso. Jinx bit her lips pulling against the dirt as she let out a vicious snarl and an agrivated,"ARGHHHHH!!!"

It took a few more pulls to finally drag her form out of the pile. She moved to lay on the grass breathing out violently as black bile began to drip down her chin onto her shirt. "Whole...new...respect...for...zombies."

Jinx rolled over onto her stomach, feeling still returning to her limbs as she began to stand and brush the smeared dirt off of her clothes. She squirmed for a few minutes, reaching into her bra to pull out a worm which she flicked at a tree,"This is it. This is literally the moment I have become the stereotype."

Suddenly a thought grew in her mind and a broad smile broke past her blue lips," I really shouldn't waste the opportunity...should I?"

She laughed, raising her arms as she began to walk forth into the woods towards the direction she believed her grave-digger had travelled. She grunted, letting one leg limp behind her, "BRAIIINNSSS...BRAIIIINSS..I WANT TO EAT...YOUR BRAIIINNSS!!"

Suddenly she saw a shape coming through the clear and her grunts became more gutteral, which helped due to the scratchiness of her oxygen deprived throat.

Jin's attention was ensnared by a nearby noise. Focusing towards the source of the sound, eyes laid upon Jinx, the person who should of been buried. Look of utter confusion and thought consumed Jin as he observed the figure, Jinx, waltzing towards him. Immediately the man entered a fighting stance. "I presumed you dead, though that may not be the case." Stiffly, instinctual the man stood his ground. Slowly a pool or smog of darkness would pool around his feet, as Jin summoned some darkness in case of need. "If any conscious mind exists, I suggest you stand down now." Jin's voice was stern upon his last remark. Showing not only his seriousness but intent to cause harm if provoked. Both buckets which he held for prior task-completion laid on the ground nearby his feet. Focus only rested on Jinx, who now sluggishly walked towards himself in her 'zombie' like fashion.



An eyebrow raises towards Isla. Though this action was not acted cause of her. The eyebrow was more raised as a reaction of himself misunderstanding or misspeaking. "Oh, my mistake. Why would you show concern of their acceptance of humans?" Lance would not reveal his status of magi as long as it benefited himself. Though would easily dance along the line of questions revolving such things. Commonly Lance would, if possible, question a newly found person on their views. The persons views would then instill his ability to react or act accordingly.

Lance did not hate humans, nor did he hate Magi, as a whole. Only hating circumstance which they thrived in. Constant war or strife between both 'factions' caused far more hatred than was needed within the world. Thus Lance gave every individual 'benefit of the doubt' before acting. Atmosphere of individual can greatly effect action, something which he strongly believed and acted upon. Only once someone showed their 'outright and true hatred' towards either race did Lance choose to act fiercely or negatively. Even then, he simply chose to avoid himself from said party or individual.

Isla

"If you haven't noticed," Isla said with a smirk and slight laugh, "there are some settlements that are nearly all, if not all magic users. Humans aren't always the most welcome. Even if they were, I hate being outnumbered. Makes me nervous. Considering the world we live in," she explained, getting quiet towards the end, all while continuing her trek with Lance.

Isla was quiet for a little bit, considering whether or not she should open up to this man or not. It was nice when she did find a temporary companion, so she could speak to someone besides herself.

"I... I suppose I also already feel vulnerable enough, you know? I mean, I feel perfectly capable of taking care of myself, but at the same time, I'm a human, a woman, blind... that makes me seen as an easy target. To say I get attacked regularly would be an understatement." Isla didn't say much after that, and her expression remained smooth, but admitting such things made her feel vulnerable in a different way. Since Lance could easily decide 'you know, she is an easy target' and turn on her.

Crouching low in the alleyway, Ris held her drawn bow in a firm grip. Despite having experience with hunting rogue Magi for five months now, she still got overly tense whenever a fight was imminent. In the twenty-one years of her life she had hardly any experience fighting humans with an intent to kill. She had fought and killed a decent amount of animals, but that was hardly comparable to fighting another human being. If possible she preferred to deliver their targets beaten but alive… Faran would however be very unlikely caught without victims falling on either side.

Her throat felt too tight and her breathing too fast, but her senses were also keener, alert to anything. Seconds passed by in an exasperating slow pace… With horror Rin realised she hadn’t checked for other exits out of the house. Faran could easily have left the house through a back entrance without her realising. But it was too late for preparations of that kind without risking exposing an unwatched front… She softly cursed herself. Relying too much on her fellow hunters was a flaw she would have to get rid of.

It might be better to move in by herself instead of waiting around for Dike and Romeo, she pondered while the seconds slipped away. That door didn't look very strong. But then again, it could very possibly stop a lightweight like her and ramming the door wouldn't be a clever plan if she wanted to remain inconspicuous. Her nerves strangled her throat as she laid an arrow on her bow and tugged at the string. Realising she was holding her breath, Ris forced herself to breath out slowly. Relax, she told herself. In the distance she could still hear people yelling and Ris recognised the sound of water splashing over buckets in nearby streets. Shifting her point of focus back to the house across the alleyway, she heard some muffled voices over the noise in other parts of town.

A loud bang startled her so much she almost dropped her bow. What had happened? If anything the sound reminded her of the fireworks she had often seen and heard at festivals… Had Faran set off some sort of explosives? Sluggishly Ris gathered her wits. Listening intently, she could clearly hear someone shouting inside the house now. A woman. So Faran wasn’t alone after all. The woman owning the house trapped inside? An accomplice? Another bounty hunter? Ikis may know who was shouting at the hands of the criminal. Ris got up and quietly moved across the alley, up to one of the windows to see if she could loo-

The sudden, unexpected crashing sound of breaking wood startled her so much it froze her to the spot. Two figures came rolling through the mess of splintered wood, pushing one another down and around. One a woman whose face was obscured by a piece of cloth. The other a dark-haired, bearded man who obviously wasn’t Faran. Both were armed and seemed intent on killing the other. It took but a moment to take in this information, but before she could even start to wonder who these two people were or what their role was in all of this, the man had pinned the woman down on the cobblestones. He restrained her with his right arm raised his left hand, clutching a hatchet-

A shrill scream died on Ris’ lips as the man brought down his arm. Over and over, he raised his arm up, only to plunge it down again into her chest. It didn’t take long for the woman to stop struggling. Her blood pooled around her, spattered on the man, the walls, the splintered pieces of door... Even after her spasms had stopped, the man kept on hacking… Ris couldn’t bring herself to look away, petrified and unable to move away from the sight of this horrific murder. It seemed an eternity before he finally put down his hatched, looking as numb as Ris was feeling.

When he finally looked up, he almost seemed to wake up from a trance. As he looked in her direction, fear gripped hold of her stomach. You could be his next target, fear screamed. Run while you can, instinct shouted. Stay perfectly still, maybe he won’t notice you in the shadows, reason pleaded. Ignoring all of those feelings, looking into the strangers’ dark brown eyes, Ris regained control over her senses. She rapidly raised and steadied her bow, noticing there were spicks of clear red marring the beautiful maple. She took a few steps back and pointed the arrow at the man’s face.

“Drop your weapon. Now. Or I’ll put an arrow through your face. Who was she, who are you and where is Faran? Why did you kill her?” The words tumbled over her lips, she couldn’t stop them quite rightly. She cursed herself for the quiver in her voice and how her eyes kept darting between the body lying next to the man. She could still see his the blade piercing skin as she closed her eyes for but a moment …

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