Whilst the rest were ready to greet one another, Fae had already taken the early start, just like he told them he would. He needed to ensure that the route was going to be clear, without them having to worry about taking a life. This was a grudge between the Thalburn Kingdom and Fae's past, not a fight they needed to get themselves involved with. If he could at least provide them with that location he told them about, a safe haven for temporary usage, then he'd be doing a good deed for once in the past few years. His solitary secrecy gave him a reputation of generally not being helpful...Well this was one large leap along the opposite direction.

As he arrived to the street corner, there was noise...Not just any noise, the sounds of struggling competitors were at hand. When Fae had reached the street corner early, the road that had an alley directly to the village's horses, their ticket out of the hell MiddleSeed had turned out to be, he caught a glimpse of two figures. One armoured, and the other simply dressed in leather attire. One held a steel short-sword, capable of cutting limbs off of human bodies, whilst the other held a small dagger or knife, useful for taking jabs into the skin of the enemy. The one with the larger armour, and weaponry, was a Thalburn soldier. Fae stared around the corner of the building, seeing them struggle. It began to make more sense to him now. Seeing man and man struggle against one another once again brought accusations and theories into his mind. The fire...The chaos at the festival, it drew the Thalburn in, and gave the people a reason to revolt. Though they were few in numbers, and easily cut down, a small burst of inspiration came into the people. No wonder the King's men were here to seize control once again...They could not risk another word of an uprising, could they?

He watched more and more, seeing the take swings and one another. It seemed like the local male had his match made, swings become more and more wild as the battle cries grew more violent. They intended on ending the other's life, but to tell who's was in defence was completely out of the question. Fae could see the Thalburn soldier taking more and more advantages of the situation, and a deepening feel for interfering was boiling inside Fae's mind...But he could not, could he? He had a task of escaping the village without any hostility, plus the additional burdens he had on top of them.

The leather suited man fell onto one knee. The sword of the Soldier had slashed against his knee, causing him to collapse into the kneeling posture. It seemed to be over, but everything was happening so fast that time itself almost felt slow. A short exchange was made, the Thalburn soldier chuckling at the ideals of success as he raised the short-sword, clearly going to lop off the head of the disadvantaged opponent. But luck had him down, as his victory cheer only gave the man time to react, as the arm with the dagger lunged out. A piercing sound of blade and skin met, as blood spluttered out. The knife had dug into the soldier's neck, and the incapacitated man let go as the body fell. There was victory in the streets of Midd-

And at that point, before the man on his knees had a chance to even celebrate or unease his tension, another nearby shot from a musketeer brought misery upon the morbid bloodbath. A pint of more blood burst from his chest and back, as he fell without any realisation of his demise. The rooftops were making sure that any victory was not to last any longer than it needed to be.

Fae swung back across the corner he was looking around, staring behind him to see the group finally catching up. It didn't ease his nerves or tension, not one bit, as he knew this was where the more difficult part came in. Fae's hands shot up, as he signalled for them to pin up against the wall, and to wait until further instruction. Once he knew that their attention was focused upon him, he turned, staring blankly into the short crossing to the alleyway. The alleyway ahead was short and dark, a perfect spot to lose any heat or hide from the terrors that were marching around. The run was less than thirty metres, probably less than twenty, and yet Fae knew there was a threat lurking on the rooftop above. He turned, and stared deeply at the individual who spared him. For all he knew, this could be a one way trip to death, adding yet another name and number to the tally of the Thalburn massacre. It was not a scared expression, but one of almost comfort. If he were to die, he would die with the knowledge that he helped someone, or more.

His foot went into a posture, one that would allow him to kick off and run as fast as his legs would carry. And as he took one last, long breath...He launched himself forward. There was never an opportunity to look backwards, to see if anything was about to take aim at him. All he could do wa-



A whizz and a ping puffed cracked stone and paving between his feet. A projectile had crossed between his legs, slamming only into the area where his feet were apart. It happened just as he was about to enter the alleyway, and the sudden miss caused his legs to twist between one another, as his body seemed to trip and collapse into the darkness of the alley. His body almost fell completely limp, motionless to say the least. Like the man who was shot earlier, it almost looked like a direct hit. A minute passed, and Fae remained lying where he was. He had to confirm that he was not dead, but only to himself. Eventually, the time was right, and he could feel the slight pain in his left arm from the fall. You could've predicted that the Marksman was convinced of his shot, as he turned, moving further across the roof to rejoin his firing squad to rain havoc into the village centre.

Fae sat up. He took the bearings of his surrounding, the darkness and shadow surrounding where he sat. He could see, through where he was concealed, the group, expectantly waiting to see what had happened. Another twenty odd seconds passed, with his hand eventually pushing through the darkness. His fingers snapped as he quietly, at least as quiet as he could manage, urged the rest that it was safe to travel. The difficult part was finally out of the way...For now...

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

"Thanks, usually people aren't so kind when you first meet them."

Jinx snatched the top of her scythe and pulled it out of it's holster with ease, she tucked the base of the rod under the handles of both buckets then waded into the water. She ducked down and allowed the buckets to fill before she lifted up the rod to balance it on her back, letting her shoulders take on the bulk of the wait. She waded out of the water looking at the treeline for a few minutes her eyes glazing over the various plants and bushes surrounding her. This place was beautiful. She came back onto the shore and put her scythe on the ground. She shoved her hands in one of the buckets before reaching into her bag to grab out a small cylindrical case. She opened the clip and pulled out a large piece of paper. She then pulled out a small pouch and dug inside for a few pencils and a compass. She took some notes, jotting down a few coordinates and making a mental image of the area noting some trees species. After she was done, she put everything away and let out a quick breath.

"So..do you know any of the original names of the areas around here. Perhaps any landmarks. I can make you an official HAVEN INC. map, free of charge. Well maybe not free of charge. For helping me and all. The maps aren't worth much, but I can assure you the quality will one day be studied. You don't really deserve one after burying me and all, but I appreciate the use of the facilities."

She shoved her supplies in her bag then walked back over to the buckets, picking it up with a grunt and slinging it onto her shoulders. She slung her arms over either side of the handles, and gave a small laugh, cocking her hip as she faced the tree line,"So why did you run away to this neck of the woods? Or should I ask where your allegiances lie? Humans? Magic-users? I'm not biased by the way. I don't usually like the living in general. Too emotional."

Jin thought of what was asked of him, along with the offer of a map. Standing at the shore of the lake, he too observed the surroundings. Focus was less on the wild or nature. Attention was more aimed on threats. Sadly enough, Jin didn't know when to put his guard down in many aspects. Thus constantly had 'one eye open', so to speak, awaiting for negativity or danger to strike. "Don't know much about the forest, besides it possessing two names. I notice elderly, or people referencing the 'older name', call this place Snakethorn Forest. Due to the snakethorn bush which sadly enough, you found. Newer passerby call it Lostwood Pine. Or Lostwood for short. There is a cliff not far from my cabin, or here. Can easily be shown to you tomorrow, if you wish. As for the map, I'll gladly take a spare if you would be so kind." A pause was made, during this time Jin thought about her question on his allegiance. That was a tricky question and tricky answer indeed.

"Over the years I've come across the 'bad side' of both, Humans and Magi. However I don't allow that to create my verdict, of people i meet, in the slightest. I always give people a chance. But if they ruin the chance given it could be hard to fix my opinions." Another pause happened, thinking of his past. The reasoning to coming to Lostwood Pine. This break in speak, or thought, carried on a bit longer then the first. "As of how I got here. That's a trickier story to tell. I'll just leave it at this, for now. I was once apart of an Organization, of sorts. This group was not the kind which fought for good. Though commonly masqueraded as so. I doubt in the slightest this group is dead or inactive. Hell, one could even say I am waiting for the day which one of my past comrades shows up here. No doubt with the goal in mind to eliminate me for my desertion." Jin didn't look happy, actually horrifically monotonous or even somber, to be approaching this topic. Holding each bucket in hand, Jin's mind raced of thoughts of past. Though would easily notice if Jinx responded or said anything, as he wasn't completely lost in thought.



Spying the village known as Moonbright in the distance, both could see the lights which littered the civilization. The size of Moonbright wasn't incredible, though sizable to say the least. Another site which each individual (Lance and Isla) could see, was a man on a shoddy carriage. Obvious to onlookers, this man was an old traveling merchant. Once close enough Lance waved the man to slow down upon reaching them, to ask questions. The elderly fellow and a younger male hosted the horse drawn cart. Older man instantly pitching his ordinary spiel of what he sold. Apparently the man sold all sorts of 'general goods'. "I'm not sure concerning my friend, but I must respectfully decline your offer. I stopped you to ask if you held knowledge on someone. Being as you are a traveli-." Lance was cut short, the old man seemed irritable no sale would be had from Lance. Even mentioned something of if the information was worth it, he'd have to pay something in return. Lance frowned. "I require knowledge on a certain individual. A man rumored or would be known as 'one who can wield black flames. I heard this man was somewhere nearby here. Though no accurate information other than that, has been given to me."

The merchant asked. "Do you wish ill will upon this man? Why do you search for him?" The younger boy couldn't hide his emotions, it was obvious the boy remembered someone of this description. The old man put a hand on the grandson's shoulder, obviously telling him to stay silent. Before Lance could even reply, the old man spoke again. "You know what, either way, it's none of my business. Go to the Tavern. It's keeper will likely hold the information you require. But I for one, have no desire to share such knowledge." With that said. The cart would take it's leave unless Isla planned to buy anything, that is.

Isla

Isla stayed silent as the sounds of the approaching village came closer and closer, including the sound of a carriage seeming to have one wheel smaller than the other. The clomping of the horse became silent although the smell became stronger as they stopped, and Isla listened as an older man began to talk about goods that he was selling on his cart. She could feel more than one pair of eyes looking at her and Lance, though if she was correct, the second person was hiding or simply staying silent.

The exchange between Lance and the old man was... interesting. Neither one seemed to leave the conversation very happy and Ilsa simply stood back while the cart continued on its journey.

"I suppose it's to the tavern then..." Isla said, a closed lip smile on her mostly hidden face. She could easily find the tavern in most towns by just smelling for the yeast of the homebrew, though it was just as easy to let Lance lead for now.

"So, what exactly DO you plan on doing or saying to your black flame friend?" Isla murmured as bodies began passing by the two. A thousand thoughts would enter her mind and she would smell each person that brushed by her. She could tell what they had for breakfast; she could sometimes tell what they were thinking by their nervous tics or their sweat. The sounds of people's voices also revealed more than just their words but also their emotions. Whenever she had first become blind, towns like this were overwhelming. Now, she had become master of focus, while taking it all in at the same time.

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

Jinx listened patiently to Jin, lowering her buckets once again to take down some notes. She nodded when he offered to show her the cliff her expression calm and pleasant. Then he continued on with his talk of the past. His mind began to wander as Jinx followed along with his tale, remaining quiet until he finished. She spoke evenly, no judgement in her voice,"So you are just waiting here to die. If you know that this organization is still around hurting people, then why do you let them get away with it."

Jinx stopped herself, shutting her mouth for a few minutes. Way to go Jinx, let's throw this guy's past in his face just because you have some sick sense of morality. She rubbed the back of her neck, "Look. I'm sorry. That was uncalled for. I don't know your situation, and if I found a spot like this I wouldn't be half-tempted to leave, but hiding like this is a bit cowardly."

Jinx took a step back covering her mouth,"Fuck. I'm sorry. I'm an idiot, who doesn't know how to keep her mouth shut. Look your talking to someone who can't exactly be called a 'survivor' so don't even listen to me. I...Yeah. I'm just gonna shut the fuck up."

Jinx picked up the buckets turning to face the tree-line, half expecting Jin to tell her to get lost or to burn in hell. Here she was talking about him being a coward after what happened to her. She looked down at her feet, remembering the anger she had felt at being lied to. No wonder she hated the living.

Jin awaited for Jinx to finish speaking, alike she did for him. Surprisingly enough, Jin chuckled at the end of it all. Partly due to her demeanor, other part due to himself thinking of the decent amount of truth behind her words. "Don't ever lose your straight-forwardness, Jinx. Some may dislike it, but it's a brutal sense of honesty which this world strongly needs." He complimented, yet maybe perceived as an odd way.

"Of course I want to stop them. Though that's far from easier said than done. Sometimes I wonder if it's possible. Especially considering the progress they've likely made in the years I've been here." An ever so faint tint of anger laced his expression, not because of Jinx, simply because of recollecting what he's speaking about. "Several comrades, who wished freedom from the group like myself, died during the events of our attempted leave. I wish to take revenge for them as well. But with the way this group operates. I need to wait. They'll come to me, then the trail i need to follow will be revealed. The path that will lead me to the group and hopefully their demise." Jin stared at the lake the whole time speaking. Whether noticeable or not, Jin's grip tightened on the handles of the buckets while he spoke. Attention adverting the water only to turn and begin walking back home, to the cabin.

Buckets in hand, venture was made towards destination. "Anyways. Enough of my ranting about the past. That is, unless some dire questions exist within your mind which need answering." Those were the only words he spoke during their travel back to Jin's Cabin. That is, unless she asked more questions or sparked more conversation.



Eyes swept their surroundings, mental notes were taken of any 'out of place' people or things. A few people gawked at the pair. Lance's weapons and metal-staff were a sight to be seen, abnormal to say the least. Isla's identity being mostly obscured or hidden by her cloak, was another curious sight for the locals of Moonbright Village. "That will be a topic covered, when the time comes." By that, Lance meant Isla would find out his intentions once the man was found. Honestly, Lance didn't entirely know himself what he'd do. Though attention was less upon what would happen, more as making it happen.

Entering the Tavern, the place was surprisingly busy compared to the outside 'nightlife' of the village. This was obviously the 'place to be' on times of unwinding or boredom for the villagers and even passerby travelers. Immediately when inside the Tavern, Lance looked at each and every individual possible or visible. Trying to calculate which ones may hold good information, or not. Senses told Lance, as the old-merchant suggested, talking to the Tavern-Owner or Barkeep would be his greatest choice. So he did.

Walking up to the counter, Lance spots no open seats. At least, not two next to one another so Isla and himself could be seated by one another. Standing behind two men, Lance speaks past, or over them, and to the Tavern Owner. "I need information. Concerning a 'man who wields black flame'. A Merchant leaving the village refused to tell me, along with told me you would be able to help me." The owner looked preoccupied with patrons, that was until attention of anyone who heard narrowed onto Lance upon hearing his question.

One eye squinted as though studying Lance. Not long after inspecting the man face shifted to study Isla. "Yeer both rather suspicious lookin' folk, to say the least." If they were to notice, several patrons who heard Lance's words were whispering about a forest. Lostwood Pines, Snakethorn Forest. Along with if the man living in those woods was the one which Lance searched for. Though Lance payed no heed to this, focus was narrowed onto the Barkeep for listening to his words. Yet guard still existed in case someone tried something."Whatzit worth to yee?" The barkeep asked.

Lance scoffed, quiet exhausted from travel and growing a tad irritable. "Enough to pull myself into this dreary town you call a home." Several locals seemed perturbed by the comment Lance gave. Though Lance didn't stop speaking, only smirked. "Worth depends on your status with the man. The hair missing from your head isn't your everyday balding scenario. I'm no fool." The barkeep scratched his balding scalp. "Now I'll ask one final time and nicely at that. Please tell me what you know." Isla would notice easily, the wicked or nasty tone laced within Lance's original demeanor. Though she may or may not realize, this was an act or bluff.

Patrons who became anxious by Lance's words and presence, got up. Either to leave completely or relocate to another section of the establishment. This enabled two seats for Lance and Isla. One of which Lance gladly took and sat down. Only themselves and one other, cloaked patron, sat at the counter now. "Now, now." The barkeep replied. "Calm yerself. Things don't need to be gettin' uppity aroun' 'ere. East. That's where you're headed." A deep sigh bellowed from the Tavern-owner. Halfway through his sentence, the cloaked individual who was at the bar, took their leave to a room within the Tavern/Inn. "Jeeze, one'd think after so many years, the man would be forgotten by know. Who knows if he even still lives in that Snakethorn Forest. But along with tellin' ye to leave once finished with your business here. That's all I have to say."

Lance expected the man to react much worse. In fact, Lance was a tad shocked they were even still allowed patronage here after his questioning. Though from the mans demeanor and tone, he knew his presence wouldn't be welcome in this Village much more. Faintly pushing an elbow against Isla, to gain her focus. Lance speaks to her. "You have any unfinished business for this village? I hope you've decided to continue traveling with me, as well. The company would be greatly appreciated." Once the Barkeep noticed attention was no longer directed at himself, focus went to the patrons around and supplying their drinks or food. Only to come back when Isla and Lance required his services.

Isla

Isla rolled her eyes at first when he basically told her to wait, but then she thought that perhaps Lance didn't know what he was going to say or do after all. She stayed quiet though, and followed him to the tavern, entering and feeling a couple eyes turn towards them. It smelled like ale and smoke and musk faintly, conversations flying through the air and the thudding of people playing with darts in one corner.

Isla slightly bumped into Lance when he stopped up by the counter, taking a small step back afterwards and letting him do his own questioning. He seemed to insist on being quite blunt, despite who she assumed to be the barkeep, acting fairly normal. Her ears perked up to several whispers about the Snakethorn forest, about the man Lance was looking for, and some disgruntled assessments of both Lance and Isla by the locals.

The scooting of stools and chairs across the wood floors assaulted Isla's ears, and she gently gripped one of her daggers under her cloak, unaware if the patrons were leaving or going to surround the two travelers. But heavy boots shuffled away from the pair, out the door, and Isla breathed out calmly. Seemed Lance was right about Moonbright locals just wanting to be left alone.

"I don't need anything. And yes, I would like to continue traveling along with you as long as you'll have me," Isla spoke just loud enough for Lance to hear her. She then turned and headed out, having done her usual routine of counting steps in and out of buildings so she'd know how far to the door. 30 steps and she lifted her hand and it hit the door. She held it open for Lance before pausing in the street that seemed to be getting quieter, the air cooler. It must be evening.

"Are we continuing East, or shall we stay here for the night?" the young woman asked, knowing there was likely an inn, but she was also used to camping.

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

Jinx looked up at Jin with surprise at his response to her brunt answers and then gave him a shy smile at his compliment. Like before, Jinx remained silent as Jin began discussing his past. Her expression turned somber, as his tale turned dark. Should you offer to bring back his friends for a time. No. Sooner he finds out what you can do, one request becomes too many. She looked over at the lake he was viewing when his tale came to an end. Jinx spoke up quietly, the buckets she was carrying sloshing about as she moved,"Well..I wish you luck when you meet them. If by chance I'm in the area, call on me. I may not look like much, but I have some...skills."

As they made there way back towards the house, Jinx noted Draco off to the side. She looked him over again, a smile curving up her lips as she winked at him. She walked past heading towards the house,"I mean..the scythe isn't just for show. You think I carry this large piece of metal for funzies! You have no idea how many times the blade has given me a haircut from hell."

As they reached his home, Jinx lowered the buckets, lifting up her back leg to do a couple stretches,"Took almost two years to grow it back though. Worst thing about dying, takes my body forever to a. heal, and b. grow my fucking hair! It's a real problem. Actually the real problem is bugs. As a woman who cares heavily about looking hot, pulling maggots out of your stitches really breaks down your confidence."

Jinx did a few more stretches nodding towards the door,"So uh. Gonna show me inside, or let a girl rot to death. Oy Sparky! You going to sit there all day."

Jinx motioned to Draco, placing her hand on her hip, as she shot him a come hither look.

Jeanne Christina Roussin

In utter silence, Ris and the others stood crammed together against the alley wall. After the neck breaking speed of the search for Hilde and Rich and the hurried catching up with Fae, it felt unnatural to wait like this, unmoving, awaiting Fae’s signal. Her nerves were starting to pop up again after being pushed down by adrenaline.

Judging from the direction Fae had led the in, as well as the sound of nervously whinnying horses, carrying over the noises of short-lived battles, it seemed that they were heading towards the town’s stables. Thankfully all of them knew more or less how to ride a horse. That is, as far as she was aware of. Moreover, that would mean that Fae's safe place was elsewhere and they would be leaving Middleseed behind. The sooner they were all out of this town, the better, Ris thought to herself. It seemed like the Thalburn were intent on creating a massacre here. As much as she hated running away and saving her own skin, it would be pointless to go up against a number of well-trained soldiers with her little band. They were capable enough, but catching criminals and fighting an army were two completely different undertakings.

Time seemed to slow as Fae looked her in the eye, his expression bordering on sadness... And a sort of... Determined calmness. This man had seen horrors like this before, had experience being hunted like this, had experience fleeing a town, leaving behind all of his posessions.... He was so much more than she had thought him to be.

Before she had properly collected her thoughts, he stalked out of the alley, leaving one bewildered girl and six impatient individuals behind. All of them were bright enough to stay out of sight and as silent as possible, while watching Ris and Fae for further instructions. The latter seemed to be doing fine, making it halfway across-

When suddenly Fae went down with the loud -BANG- of a carrycannon. He knew... That look... He knew what he was walking into... Ris thought, frozen for a moment. Levi was the first to react, getting up and rushing forward to get to Fae’s side. Ris stopped him in his tracks before he was able to run onto the adjacent street.

“He’s hurt, madam Roussin. We should help him, he might bleed to-” Levi started, looking at her with wide panicky eyes, only widening further when Ris put her hand over his mouth and shushed him. Warily she looked up at the roof where a Thalburn soldier was still partly visible. She waited a few agitating second until she was sure he hadn’t noticed them.

She removed her hand from Levi’s face once she was sure he would remain quiet. “Listen and think with me for a moment Levi, if he’s dead we won’t be able to help him much at the moment.” She began in a soft, calm tone. “If he’s not, we still won’t do him any good by running out on the street and getting shot right next to him. Right? Let’s wait for those soldiers to lower their guard. If Fae still hasn’t shown any signs of life by then, I’ll sneak up to his body and I want you to watch my back, alright?” Levi merely nodded at that, seemingly overcoming his nervousness and looking her in the eyes with a serious and focused expression. It felt a little odd, but Ris felt a sense of pride as well to see him look so determined. It helped when you knew exactly what to do and what was expected of you in situations like this.

Just as she was about to sneak out of the alleyway and check on what she dreaded to be Fae’s lifeless body, he started moving ever so slowly. She allowed herself to sigh in relief once he made it into the adjacent dark alley. With some quick motions she signalled for the others to cross the street one by one. “Oh dear, I can’t wait for this to be over…”

Ground floor possessing a cooking/kitchen area, along with a lounge room and study. Secondary floor hosting the master bedroom and two guest sleeping quarters. Most extravagant or outstanding thing of the ground floor, was the massive iron/metal wood-stove. The wood stove which also a 'cooking-stove'. Finally, a spot in the corner, somewhat near the stairs which led to the second floor, a hatch existed. Said hatch was the pathway or entrance to the basement. This was where Jin preserved or kept all of his food. Along with resources gained from hunting, such as pelts or tusks. One bucket set aside, for later use. Jinx' and one of Jin's water-buckets would be used for bathing, if needed. Then the final water bucket would be for other uses. Such as food/cooking or etc. Releasing a heavy sigh, the man spoke. "Welcome to the abode. Rooms are upstairs, the biggest or master bedroom is mine. I'll fetch some clothing for ya in a minute." The bucket which was held was transferred into a spot built in the wood-stove.

Taking refuge in one of the living-room furniture, a sort of recliner or chair, Jin realizes he had yet to sit. The man wasn't exhausted, though recently realized fatigue was a bit apparent. Eyes slowly inspect the surroundings, only to stop upon him saying. "It's not a lot, but better than camping in the wilderness." Stretching out, Jin relaxes more and awaits any questions or comments from the others.



Lance followed suit with Isla, exiting the building when door was opened and held for him. Standing outside, a deep breath is taken, Lance looked left and right to inspect their surroundings as well. "I think it's best if we travel a bit longer, then camp when we tire or find a good spot. That is, if you don't mind." A brief pause in speech occurred during Lance's calculations or thoughts. "Taking consideration the Barkeep and locals reaction to my demeanor in there, I'd rather not stick around this village longer than needed." On that note, he would begin walking east. Presumably towards Snakethorn forest. Though if Isla protested leaving the village, he'd stop in his tracks.

Hearing the horses, Darius realized that this group might end up leaving town, which could cause a problem. If they all got out alive and left town, he would be free, but would soon have a bounty on his head due to his earlier actions. Thinking this over, he was startled by a loud crack and looked over quickly enough to see the man flop down into the alley opposite. Holy shit... was the only thing going though his mind now, the idea of having a bounty on his head seemed a little less worrying compared to death. Numb with shock, he couldn't do anything other then stare at the man, barely noticing the actions of those near him. Hours had seemed to pass as he waited for someone to help him snap out of it when the man suddenly started moving again, slowly and cautiously motioning for them to cross. Following the others, Darius felt his nerves calming, and realized what he could do to help keep a bounty off his head. When they passed a mutilated body later on, he took out his spare glasses and the paper he had smeared his blood on, after using one of his throwing knives make a small cut, and tossed them on it, hoping it would at the least buy him time.

One by one, the rest began to follow over cautiously. What their reactions were from the whole experience was more than anonymous to himself, but at this moment in time, it could not matter. Once everyone had gathered into the alleyway, which was nerving him with regards to how large it was, he began to move slowly within the shadows they were all concealed by. This time, he decided to speak. It was in a small, quiet and raspy voice, but was still clearly his own.

"Right...We all okay?" He listened to any small points made by the others, but did not answer those that asked about what had happened to him. It would take too long of a time to explain, and time was something not in their grasp. In fact, it was so far away from them that there was a risk Fae even asking the question in the first place. Yet the garrisons pouring around the city's buildings were occupied with the uprisings that now began to settle into play. This was the narrow chance at escape made wider, seeing as they had reached the stables.

Once Fae had led them to the mouth of the alleyway, the stable became fully visible. It was more of a stop for the local horses, those sometimes entered in races, those used for farming work and those used for marketing trips. There they were, six horses, all aligned together with tight leashes onto their posts. Strong in size, but varying in width, they all seemed to match one another in their own ways. MiddleSeed wasn't a town of horse-breeding, like Reedstan further to the West, but it had managed to grow a good amount of their own. They were not owned by anyone, and were in fact public. This was what made the town so collectively bonded as one, as a community of true organisation. Well...That was until now.

Fae walked past each of the posts, and with a single swipe each time, he cut the rope tying them down with his right arm, which held the sickle-ended hatchet. Before each horse would bolt off in the panic and heat, he would comfort each one with a few seconds of patting, murmuring words of comfort. It was as if him and the beast had connections, much like they would to anyone who lived here. It was quite remarkable. He began to lead the horses over to the individuals, before finally handing the last one over to the woman.

"It's a thirty minute ride south-west. It has the requirements and room to fit my desires, and perhaps yours. Those who had it before me abandoned it during some...complications." He sighed, looking around at the numbers. There were seven of them, plus himself. Eight individuals...It wouldn't work out. This led to him sighing heavily, placing the tips of his fingers against his forehead. "Look...This may really annoy the shit out of you...But two of you lot won't be able to come...The location is specifically designed for six individuals due to the role of its emplacement." He gave a very sympathetic look. His expression showed his deepest apology, rather than his words. "But..."

Fae took out a small rugged piece of paper and an ink capsule from one of his few satchels on the webbing he wore. He leaned against the posts that his chosen horse was originally tied down to, and he began to scratch out words. These were, again, words like no usual ones. They used a strange lettering system, that had altered, yet sometimes similar, alphabetical markings. An encryption, obviously, but in the truth, it was the language spoken by himself earlier when the woman had first met him. It didn't take long for him to splodge the ink onto the paper and prepare a letter. He sealed it up with a fold, before quickly using some string to hold it together in place.

"Whoever isn't going to come with me...which is two of you...One of you, or both...will be given something of the up-most importance. It's more important that anything I'm doing, besides providing a place to hide for the time being, because of who it'll go to." Fae pointed back at the buildings behind them through the alleyway. Some were burning from the fire's spread, some were ransacked from the soldiers. He thought of what to say, because it could change the course of these individual's histories. "This is not the first time something this horrific has happened...The Thalburn are covering up something from its past, our past...my past. They do this whenever a single sign of danger to their power is at hand...In the past years, thousands were killed and taken from the streets without realisation. And the worst part is, no one beyond the combat zones are aware of it. This letter...This single letter I wrote, can change that for at least now. Whoever takes it, goes to Alfheim...find a building called the Burnt Oak and deliver it to the worker known as Hera Noa, a tall blonde woman. It's a long journey, I know...but the heart of a power lurks in that city's walls that's been scaring the Thalburn for long enough."

He looked between them all. There were more than the woman had said there were in her group. Some were not aware of the agreement, which could've made them potential candidates for his task. But then again, he knew that the people of this world were wise not to trust anyone else. He saddled onto his horse, having the letter still ready for collection in his hand. For all he knew, as long as they knew he was not aligned to either specified side would make him trust-able. And trust was exactly what he needed, as well as them...

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

Jinx followed behind Jin as he entered his house, with her buckets in tow. She looked around, finding it vaguely familiar to her farmhouse back in Alfheim. It was quaint and large enough for a single person to feel comfortable. Aside from the old grizzled woman staring aimlessly out a window. Her form was misty, the outline of bone and flesh hidden within the area. Jinx barely even glazed over the woman, even as her grey eyes turned to look over at her with distaste. Souls were everywhere..like rats to peanut butter, houses were a gold mine for the dead to stick to. Jinx looked over at Jin, noting that he gave no notice to the lady. Good. Less he knew about the bitch the better. Jinx pretended as if nothing was there, keeping the creepy soul in the back of her mind. "Your house is lovely! Your decorating is a bit on the slim side, but eh looks homey! Bathroom? I would sit, but again..covered in dirt!"

Jinx brought her buckets over to where Jin had placed his and then gave another quick stretch as she dunked her backpack and scythe to the side. She then pulled off her boots, leaving them by the door, after seeing how much dirt she was dredging in. As she entered the living room she noted that the woman had left her spot by the window to move towards the hatch in the floor. Her form melted into the wood, disappearing from Jinx's view. She let out a breath, feeling more comfortable immediately. "Definitely better than camping. I haven't slept in a house for weeks, so this is super appreciated."

She waited patiently for Jin to show her the bathroom when a voice spoke from behind her,"He's coming back for me. He promised."

Jinx turned rigid, not daring to turn around, already angering herself that she reacted. Don't notice me. Don't notice..."You can hear me?"

Oh swiss fucking cheese. Jinx spoke up to Jin,"Don't move. There is a spider. Oh..no nevermind. It's just a speck of paint. My bad. Ignore me."

She laughed awkwardly, as the woman came into view, a sadness apparent on her face,"What am I thinking. Of course you can't hear me. It's been years since anyone has said my name, let alone notice me. WHY ISN'T HE HERE YET!"

Jinx felt bad for the woman, but not bad enough to make herself noticeable. She kept her eyes on Jin, trying to calm herself enough before she let herself be found out.

Taking in Fae’s words, Ris’ expression darkened significantly. Splitting up had never proven to be a good idea for their group, even more so when it included two strangers. Ris took a few moments to think over Fae’s words, biting her lip in frustration. Could be that he was lying of course, that there was more room in his hideout… Regardless, it wouldn’t be the best of plans to irritate the one they relied on for shelter, liar or not. It would be best to go along with Fae’s wishes, at least for now. Which brought her to the next topic; Who to send to Alfheim and who to keep close? The new guy –whose name she wasn’t even sure of- would have to be one. It was bad enough to rely on one stranger, let alone drag along another. The real question was who would accompany Green Eyes. Rich wouldn’t be useful in a fight any time soon, he would have to stay behind and recover whether he liked it or not. She definitely didn’t want Levi to go on a long journey with some stranger and Romeo and Hilde would most likely outright refuse the task since it wouldn’t involve killing or hunting down Magi. That only left her and Dike.

“Give us a moment.” She said quietly to Fae wile handing the halter of her horse to Levi. A curt hand movement urged Dike to step away from the group for a moment. Seeing their lack of time and the imminent danger, they didn’t go very far. They merely walked far enough so that their hushed voices would be inaudible to the group.

Ris hurriedly shared her deductions thus far, making sure only Dike could hear her words. “I’d like to stay behind to get some more information from that Fae. And I need someone I can trust to go along with that other guy. Besides, I know how to keep in contact with you and it’d be rather helpful if you’d be able to learn more of whom Fae is trying to contact and why exactly. He mentioned something about a rebellion before…” She could almost hear Dike’s reservations, painstakingly obvious to her in his twitchy eye and the wrinkles created by his eyebrows. “I know that look, Dike. No, of course I don’t trust him completely, which is why I want you to do some research of your own. I’m no longer Sophie’s silly naïve girl, Daniel.” She added, her voice but a little hoarse.

It took Dike some contemplating, his arms crossed and left eye still twitching slightly. Not long after that he nodded, seeing the reason in her words. “Alright, I’ll play the carrier pigeon for now. Just send a message to Irene or Lucas if need be, I’ll be sure to pass by them on the way to Alfheim.” He took a few long strides to return to the waiting group. “Also, I think it would be nice if we could get at least one horse, seeing how we’ll be travelling the greater distance.” He added, raising his voice a little so that the others could hear him.

Ris nodded in agreement, she had been thinking the same. “Levi can ride with Hilde. After all, it’s only thirty minutes, right? And I can share a horse with Romeo. That way, the two who are going to Alfheim will be able to make a better time.” She shot Rich a menacing look before he could complain about riding alone. Fortunately her expression proved enough to let him shut up for once. “With that message being as important as it is, I doubt you’ll have any objections, right?” She turned to look at Fae at that last sentence and finally she turned to the man whose name she still didn’t know.

“We decided that you will accompany Dike to deliver the message. Feel free to decline, you can go wherever you want. On foot that is. I’m not responsible for you and neither are you obliged to join our little undertaking, but I would advise you to get as far away from this place as possible.” She told him, perhaps a little harsher than necessary. She just wanted to be sure that Dike wouldn’t end up with someone who would be unmotivated to help him if need be. And travelling a long distance in a world like this, one would surely end up in trouble one way or the other.

After listening to everything, Darius realized there was more going on here then he knew about. From the words the man spoke to everyone's reactions, he both knew and felt in his gut that he would probably be sent off to deliver the message, seeing as he wasn't all that acquainted with any of them. So when the woman who seemed to be the leader approached him and told him that he would be headed to Alfheim with the man named Dike to deliver the message, he wasn't very surprised. He quickly nodded and, trusting his gut, replied, "No problem, I understand and I'll help make sure that some good comes out of these horrible events." Rubbing the fingers of his right hand against his palm as he listened to the chaos, he added as as an afterthought, "My name's Darius by the way, but you can call me Dar if you want."

He listened to them. The hesitation that came with the accompaniment under the associated name of Dike proved to be quite tense. If he were to decline, there'd be little hope for ever getting it done. This letter, which was written in strange alphabetical fonts, seemed unreadable in places. It was the perfect way to stop anyone if they were caught to not unveil the plans. Fae was also exceptionally pleased with the acceptance of the stranger now identified as Darius. He seemed fine to be accompanying the fellow 'Carrier-Pigeon' as they called it. Fae managed to smile, only slightly. The horrors of the town were still in his mind.

With a long, stretched arm, he laid the tightly sealed letter down into Darius' hands, instead of Dike's. He had plans for this arrangement, ones that seemed to come with a good explanation.

"Darius, is it? Well...I'm trusting you with this package...You look less suspicious, and Dike has the right persona to ensure you are well protected. Just do as he says, unless it conflicts with the mission." He whipped back around on his horse, looking back at the woman. It seemed quiet, the sky around him. Despite the shots of gunfire that kept ringing up, he felt somewhat safe. Even though she was going to kill him, of course...

With a gentle nudge of his leg, the stallion trotted over towards her place. Fae looked down, despite a minor sense of fear and happiness striking his emotion, as if he were a general. He wanted to be happy with what had just happened, but this was not the place. He'd spent years in that place, that town. To leave it all behind, after dodging so many patrols and using it as a safe house, after taking memory after memory within these walls and homes to only leave behind...was difficult, to say the least.

Fae had never had any intentions on leaving this settlement. He wanted to call it home. Fae had never really had a home, due to the constant shifting of homes during the Alfheim Economy Crisis. He wanted to call it home because it was a place he could settle at. Fae had spent years building a new life on top of his now shadowed true intentions. Once the war was over, and it would be over one way or another...He was going to live here...Settle down, find a nice woman and start a family. All of that seemed far fetched. Especially now, with what he could make out as his neighbours homestead on fire. It fuelled a small amount of hatred, and disgust, from within his heart. But it wasn't the Thalburn's people he hated. It was all in his emotion now...Fae returned his view back onto the woman.

"We...Need to leave now. The Thalburn will do perimeter securing once they flush out the remainders inside the town. Then they'll re-garrison the town and fortify it, or something like that. We haven't got the..." He stopped himself. Fae's mind recollected what had happened this day. Faran. The Fire. The Thalburn Hunters. The Woman who threatened him. The Woman who saved him. The Woman who gave him a chance to redeem himself, but possibly finalise the steps to the revolution...He remembered the fire, the fighting man in the street, gunned down at small range. It hurt him. This hurt Fae a lot...

"We haven't got the time to stay around. I'll take you to the place now. It's not too long of a ride...Just into the nearby forest on the outer-rims. As for you, Darius and Dike...Don't...Please don't fail this. If you succeed in this, and I ever meet you again...I'll lay down my life for you on your command." He turned around on the horse, and nodded to the woman again. It was time to finally move, to finally run from what he wanted to stay back and fight. Even if it were useless, it was a way he wanted to die...

But instead, all Fae could really do was give himself another chance to run and hide, like he always did. When was it the time to bare the sword and meet every one of his loved and close individuals out 'There'? Why wasn't he dead? Without any answers, and a group as his burden...He rode out into the distance, straight towards the hideout of sudden salvation.

.

Isla

"Agreed," Isla said with finality. She stuck close enough to Lance, heading East out of the village, and kept silent thoughts to herself. She wondered in her head why this magic user had no curiosity about her. He'd not questioned her age, her family, her past. She could only assume either he didn't care to know or was too focused on his mission to think to ask. After all, all they had right now was time to get to know one another and there was silence. Isla let out a soft sigh, fingers playing with the strap of her satchel.

"If you're hungry I have a little food to share," she said matter of factly.



Lance hadn't realized how hungry he actually was. Situations like this, Lance would hunt, or would of actually bought something from the village which he had originally been so quick to leave. Though as steps continued forward desire to not go back, or leave, became greater. "If required we can do a bit of hunting today or tomorrow. But I would love some food, if you have enough to spare." Eyes would always scan the area, only once in a while stopping and focusing upon Isla. Alike always, the man never knew how to drop his guard.

Lance would have asked about Isla's past. Though considered waiting. Lance wanted themselves to be a bit more comfortable with each others presence, before he asked more about her. Not to mention, Lance was a bit more consumed with the mission at hand than he'd like to admit. Finally, the figure cloaked in Moonbright Tavern, gave Lance an unsettling sensation. Partly the reason to why he refused to let his guard down, even more so now, than usual.

Isla

Isla opened her bag while she walked, fingers brushing past some of her belongings before feeling the jerky strips she had taken from earlier in the day. She took two and held them in Lance's direction so he could grab them before closing the pouch that rested on her hip.

"I enjoy hunting, so I wouldn't mind doing so if the opportunity arises tomorrow," Isla said with a shrug. She was quiet for a moment before she added "My brother and I used to hunt all the time. Some things I wouldn't let blindness take from me," she smirked, thinking about how it made most people nervous when she picked up her bow to shoot. No subtle snap of a tiny twig escaped her notice any time they passed a tiny creature along the road.



Lance accepted the offering of jerky, slowly partaking after doing so. The man was a patient one, that trait was even noticeable during eating. Though, in a polite manner between eating, he spoke. "I would be rather grateful if you hunted us food during this venture." Lance couldn't help from a faint chuckle in between words. "I can hunt, but i'm no expert to say the least." Honesty would tell that Lance was a horrible hunter.

Walk not ceasing, conversations continuing. "I do have two questions for you. How old are you? Also, how long have you been hunting?" Lance debated on asking more, yet something steadied his words. Lance figured without any rush to leave Isla's presence, they'd have plenty of time to talk.

Isla

Isla gave a smirk and soft chuckle when Lance mentioned his lack of hunting abilities. She didn't mind at all, but most people were much quicker to announce how positively fantastic they were at such things even if it was a lie.

"I'm 24," Isla replied, a little surprise coming through in her tone. "And... I suppose I've been hunting about 10 years now," she paused, thinking back to try and remember the first time her father took her to the woods with a bow.

He had been a sturdy man, over six feet tall and dirt permanently ground into his knuckle creases. His grizzly brown beard came down to the dirty beige collar of his shirt, over that was thick dark brown overalls. His heavy boots felt like they shook the ground a little every time he stepped, but that could have been Islas imagination. After all, in their home, their father was God.

Isla held onto her dad's handmade bow in her much smoother, whiter fingers. He had gotten her her own hip quiver though, filled with straight, tipped arrows. They had found a spot by a tree, bushes everywhere to easily conceal them. They sat in silence, and yet the daughter cherished every second. From that moment on, hunting was Isla's special thing.

"Can I ask, why exactly you're looking for this person we're headed towards? Or if there is anything else I should know about you, magic user?" Isla said before her memories brought on too many emotions.

Seeing the man who nearly died earlier walk up to him and Dike, Darius expected him to give the letter to Dike. But when it was handed to him instead of Dike, it surprised Darius a little. (Why the heck would he give it to me of all people? I'm definitly less experienced then Dike.) But after hearing his explanation he understood his reasoning a little. Quickly pocketing the letter in his travel pack and then securing the top, Darius turned to Dike and calmly said, "You should lead the way once we're out of town, since you probably know more then me about the route there. If that doesn't work for you, just tell me."

Jin wasn't paying incredible amount of attention towards Jinx. Though forgetfulness didn't completely seep in. Pointing to a room on the ground floor, which door was closed. Jin tells Jinx. "That room is the bathing room. There should be proper tools to wash up in there. If you want your water warm, you'll have to put it into one of the pots on the stove. Honestly, even then, in my opinion the water doesn't keep warm for long." Remembering how many buckets they brought, Jin noted. "Also, if you need, feel free to use the rest of the buckets. Worse case scenario we fetch more water."

Coming to a stand, Jin leaves and goes to his room. When he comes back, two outfits are in hand. One a more casual or lazy (Sweatpants and long sleeve shirt, sort of deal) and another more sporty outfit. (So secondary set being t-shirt and shorts.) Placing both outfits on a chair, near the washroom door. "Feel free to choose what you like. Your current attire can be cleaned tomorrow. Or if you like, a trip down to Moonbright Village, or Thalburn can be done to fetch new wears. Though be warned, Thalburn will not take kindly to our Magi-status if it's discovered." The situation would of been a lot more dangerous or dire than Jin lead it to be. Thalburn tended to execute Magi if discovered. After that, Jin went back to his original spot.



"Then you have far more experience hunting compared to I. Maybe one day or time you can give me some pointers." Lance spoke with a faint smile. Despite her views on Magi, Lance truly enjoyed Isla's decision to travel with him. Turns out, being alone was getting to him more than he realized. "My actions towards the man greatly depend on his own. We both share a similar status, the organization we once affiliated with. I have a warning to give him, though I hope he doesn't think me a threat. For I'm not against defending myself." Lance hoped she wouldn't press further on the matter. Explaining this organization to great detail, could not only anger or upset her, but also put her in grave danger. Knowledge of this group was not something easily obtained, the members of this group tended to enjoy keeping it that way.