@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

"Cold water really doesn't bother me much anymore. It's all the same feeling really. Ya know nerves and all." She watched him head into the back room and picked up two buckets feeling that was sufficient enough to clean herself. She then saw him come out with two pairs of clothes. She opted for the baggy sweats, knowing the jaw-string on the pants would help hold them up. She would have gone for the shorts, but the thought of having him see her bare legs made her stomach squirm. She headed towards the room he pointed to then before closing the door gave a quick shot, "Thanks! I won't be too long."

After a few moments of undressing, Jinx scrubbed away the dirt. The cold water drenching her skin felt more like a light whisper of cold, rather then freezing lake water. Her nerves barely registered the chill as she removed the grime from her stitches. Black tendrils of hair glued to her blueish white skin, covering the stab wounds and part of the long diagonal scar that ran from her left thigh up to just under her right breast. She tried not too look so closely at the scar, feeling self-concious about the wound. When she was finished she stepped out of the cleaning area only to look up at a mirror. The deep grey eyes that stared back at her seemed sad. She made the reflection smile at her, but it still seemed forced. Damn...I really haven't taken a good look in awhile. She rubbed her eyes, turning away to grab the towel, covering up the evidence of her past. She immediately felt better, after she dried off reaching for the clothes when she felt a real chill behind her,"Oh god..that is disgusting. How the fuck did you survive that."

Jinx sighed speaking out-loud now that she was behind a closed door,"I didn't."

A silence broke out and Jinx turned, her eyes glazing over the woman as she whispered,"In fact..I am working on borrowed time. Now before you freak out and cause a rukus. You will not talk to me in front of Jin. I wish to keep this talent to myself if possible, and I am highly skilled at ignoring the likes of you for years at a time, so don't try and force a reaction either. It won't work. As soon as we leave this room, I will not respond to you again. So you have five minutes to tell me what it's gonna take to get your ass out of this house."

The woman went from being shocked to stern,"I knew you could hear me! I WANT MY JONATHAN BACK! HE SAID HE WOULD COME TO MARRY ME..BUT HE HASN'T COME BACK FROM THE WAR! I CANNOT LEAVE WITHOUT HIM!"

Jinx sighed, shoving on the large sweater and baggy pants,"That is...the most cliche fucking story I have ever heard. Ever think that he fucked off, or even died on you. What if he's in the afterlife waiting right now, as we speak."

The woman shook her head,"That's the problem. I have no idea. He could still be alive and trying to make it back to me. I know it has been many years, but he could have survived."

Jinx sighed,"Where did he go?"

The lady clutched her hands,"Thalburn! He was a magic-user. I have to know if they killed him."

Jinx threw her hair up in the towel and then rolled her eyes,"Of course he's there. What do I get for finding him for you? Hell what's even your name?"

"It's Mia! Mia Wallace. I don't have much, but I have an old locket stored underneath a floorboard in Jonathan's old room. The new male sleeps there. In our bed, for crying out loud! Please please do this for me!"

"Fucking goats! Fine...I can buy a new pair of boots with that locket. I will head into town tomorrow and see what I can find. Now I have to get back out there. Remember! Silence. I will not respond to you out there. Okay?"

Mia reached out to put her translucent fingers against my cheek,"You are a blessing. Thank you."

Jinx gave a small smirk then exited the bathroom, carrying her items over to her backpack and scythe before moving to a small chair, across from Jin,"Sorry that took so long. Dirt found it's way into every crevice. I thought it over and I think going into Thalburn should be fine. I have some spare costuming that I usually wear when passing through human centered cities, so my appearance shouldn't be too much of a problem. I have a few things I need to check up on there, though."

She gave him a warm smile,"Oh and thanks again for the clothes. They seem a bit big but they are very warm."

Ris watched the exchange between Fae, Dike and Green Eyes with interest. Dike hardly seemed offended by the accusation of “looking suspicious”, it was mostly true after all and her little tête-à-tête wouldn’t have done anything to lower that suspicion. More than offended he seemed a little relieved that Fae appeared to be a good judge of character. He wouldn’t be leaving the group in the hands of an incapable man, that was for sure. Besides, he was used to following orders of people far younger than himself, something that he never had seemed to have a problem with. Green Eyes seemed capable enough, she judged. Besides, it was Fae’s message, if he trusted Green, that was the end of the matter.

As Green Ey- Darius introduced himself, Ris realised she hadn’t even given Fae her name in her rush for answers. She looked at Darius first and turned to Fae halfway her sentence, making eye contact to show him the statement was also meant for his ears. “I’ve got quite the collection of names I’m afraid, but ’Ris’ is more than adequate to describe me.” She said, a smirk on her lips. “Risk would be far more accurate though.” Rich mumbled, still loud enough for everyone to hear. Ris’ smirk only widened, and her companions smiled briefly at that. More than one story about their adventures of the past few months were on her lips, but Fae’s reminder of their lack of time let her swallow the words. He was right, the sounds of battle were too close to simply stand there at the edge of town, reminiscing.

As if to remind them of that fact, a loud noise startled horse and men just as some were mounting and others still saddling their assigned steeds. Luckily the horses were easily calmed, but they remained skittish, eyes pricked up and looking around to locate the source of the noises around them. A lone musketeer on a nearby roof was firing at some villagers who were attempting to escape Middleseed on foot. Fortunately it seemed like he hadn’t spotted the mounted group yet and they quickly split up, no time for proper goodbyes; Darius and Dike riding east, while the rest urged their horses west, following behind Fae. It felt odd to have Romeo’s weight pressing into her back, but Ris just felt relieved that they were about to escape the town.

Just as it seemed that they were leaving the scene unscathed, the soldier noticed them and managed to get a clear shot on Hilde’s horse, which was closest to him. It went down with a loud, shrill noise, throwing Hilde and Levi off. Without losing much speed, Rich turned his horse and picked Hilde off the ground, who landed somewhat ungracefully and held on tightly to him. Fortunately he was a good equestrian; he hadn’t had time to grab a saddle and solely relied on his posture to prevent falling off.

Meanwhile, Fae had managed to turn around as well and allowed Levi to pick up his pace and run alongside Fae’s horse. With a swift motion he grabbed the boy by the hackles and lifted him up behind him. Ris noticed that Levi was shaking a little as he grabbed hold of Fae’s shoulders.

The shooter seemed to yell something to nearby companions, but before he had the time to reload the group was already galloping off. To safety.

Isla

"I see," Isla said, hoping Lance was correct that this dark flame wielder wouldn't attack them upon arrival. Isla didn't have much else to ask her travelling companion, especially considering his answers seemed rather vague. She did however bring up camping now that they were a good distance from Moonbright village. She let Lance pick the spot, since it was much quicker using eyesight than her usual method of pushing through trees til she found a clearing, or listening for water.

After a camping spot was determined, Isla began moving on her hands and knees, clearing a spot free of rocks and sticks. Most people would begin making a place for a fire, but Isla never made a fire. Otherwise she couldn't sleep. So once the grass was free of bumps, Isla laid her satchel down, intending to use it as a pillow when the time for sleep came.

The shots that had been fired had frightened Fae slightly, but his reactions to grab the smaller boy as quickly as he could was just a matter of instinct, rather than decision. That isn't to say he wouldn't of helped him in the first place, this was more of his moral speaking to him. The reaction was quick, and he felt as if he may have hurt the poor boy. It seemed odd to see such a young fellow amongst a group of what he thought to be debt collectors, or bounty hunters. It worried him further. What if those he was lurking into his safehouse were to truly ridicule him of life? Well...at least he had someone to get the letter to the destination. It was a massive favour for his own part.

They had been riding for some time now. The fires and gunshots becoming less and less of an echo. It was getting moderately dark already, the Festival having happened during the near-dusk hours of the day. It would've been so beautiful if it had gone through properly. This upset Fae. It upset him a lot...

Eventually, the group of riders had reached the tree-lines of the surrounding forest. The Thalburn were protective of these forests, which made them quite the ideal spot to hide a small encampment inside. As soon as they rode it, without slowing down, Fae looked around at the familiar sights. The trees of high stances, the fallen branches of the pond. It all seemed so familiar once more, as if the Two Encounters had finished yesterday. But it hadn't. And the base itself, if it were large enough to even call a base, was more likely to be abandoned after the 16th Detachment of Guerrilla Fighters had left for Alfheim. He knew there'd be very small storage of food already, and possibly a small working farm underneath the ground, a technique mastered by themselves.

It was when they approached a small hill, that he remembered where the door was exactly. He unmounted from his saddle, halting those behind him. He walked ahead, and held his hands out. It was as if he were caressing the grass, moss and branches that laid on this strange mini-hill. But for those who paid attention long enough found him halt in a particular spot. His hands plunged further into the grass and moss, before they retracted back out, a hatch, the size of a bent over man, slipped open and revealed a small entrance. Fae couldn't help but smile to himself. It'd been so long. Fae turned around, and looked at those who'd followed him. It did seem a bit more relaxed, the lack of the two messengers and townsfolk being murdered indicating this.

"Right...It's more roomy on the inside. It uses a tunnel system with makeshift breathing tubes stuck aside. The tunnels are approximately standing height, from what I remembered. The door is a bit small though, stops the threat of an armoured Thalburn Infantrymen from charging inside. Anyway...The dormitory is on the left passage, straight down. Don't knock any of the metal supports. Though they may not be loose, it's worth not crushing us all here, even if it is mostly just dirt, stone...and metal over our heads. Anyway...If you need me...I'll be by the desk...Yes, we have a few cruddy desks." After introducing the scene, he tied his horse down to a designated tree not too close to the entrance itself. It used moss and grass to provide minimal, but effective sheltering for the horses. That being done, he disappeared into the doorway, crouching on the way inside. Once he was sure that the others would follow, he sat down at a small, newly candlelit (Made by himself only seconds ago) desktop, where he sat down. There were chairs behind him, well...There was one chair.

While Jinx used the washroom to clean up, Jin retrieved something from a nearby cabinet. Though the item he retrieved was not done until after food was setup, stew. With the food on the woodstove, to cook. Jin sat again in the chair, now with A locket in hand, roughly the size of his palm. The locket was owned by Jin, not the one aforementioned in Jinx's discussion with the specter, or ghost-woman. Also it would probably be worth noting, possibly due to Jin being transfixed or focused on his locket, he knew nothing of the discussion or talking which Jinx performed while in the washroom with the previously mentioned ghost.

Jin's attention directed from the necklace and gaze shifted from the homes fireplace. Right as Jinx spoke to him. Surprisingly Jin was able to respond, despite the distraction within his fingertips. “You are welcome, my only concern rested with the clothing and if they fit. Seems I worried over nothing.”

Focus was split, between the fireplace, or better yet the locket, then Jinx. Whether this was noticeable by Jinx was unbeknownst to Jin. Every so often the man would open, then quietly or slowly close the locket. If the fiddling with the pendant was recognizable by Jinx, it would be more than obvious this item held grave sentimental value to the man. Then he remembered. "I almost forgot. Are you hungry? I know I am." Standing up, he went and checked the stew which he left on the stove. It was far from burnt, though greatly needed a few stirs which he supplied.



Lance decided to take refuge at the base of a massive hill. Aforementioned hill could arguably be detailed as a minor-cliff. Though with enough determination, or skill, said hill could easily be climbed. Planting themselves beside this hill permitted a decently safe side, while possessing view of each other way. Before the man started the fire which he built, a question was asked to Isla. “Would it be a problem for you if I started a fire, for warmth sake? If it does prove a problem, I can go without.”

While awaiting her answer, Lance observed their environment. The young man always seemed to be awaiting for something to jump out around the corner. As previously mentioned or noticed, never able to break his guard or awareness. If anything were to be seen, yet nothing out of the ordinary existed in sight, Isla would be immediately warned or foretold.



Four individuals stood with backs facing Moonbright-Village. A hooded individual stood among three others and somewhat centered the group. Together they made a 'diamond' type shape in standing. Furthest back, a man towered over the three in front, the hulking man stared seemingly absent minded at the stars above. Leading the group was a slender, yet muscular, woman adorned in outlandish martial arts attire. Eagerness and overconfidence radiated from this womans frame and her smug smile. To the right of the cloaked figure, stood a man of average build and height. Occasionally this man, adorned in almost luxurious clothing, would shiver and rub his shoulders/arms to try to regain body heat.

“Why can't I burn the whole forest down? Wouldn't that, as they say, be killing multiple birds with one stones throw?”

A tinge of anger laced the woman who stood first within the group. “That could endanger Lance. You know what'll happen if he gets hurt.”

“Oh, I do apologize. We mustn't hurt your poor brother. Which I might add, we are instructed to kill if he doesn't follow your plan.”

The hooded figure spoke, a soft and quiet voice entering the conversation. This speaking interrupted the martial artists next words, forcing her to listen rather than respond. “Last warning my dears. Not only have I already explained our plan, I will not say it again. Or shall I inform King of your disobedience?”

When the other two heard the cloaked woman's comment, they stopped arguing and almost looked scared. The hulking man furthest back in the group chuckled, after the other two shifted into being silent. Though the silence was broken as quickly as the towering man's attention was noticed. “I didn't even know you knew how to pay attention big-guy. Mind telling us what's so humorous?”

The monotonous expression of the man in back shifted to a wicked smirk. “Both of you act tough, though cowardice behold you once King is mentioned. Me no fear King. So me find your fear funny.”

The only comment made to the bulky man's remark, was by the martial artist. "Which makes you more of a fool then I ever imagined you to be."

No notion or movement was made towards Snake-thorn forest by this group. They merely stood upon the outskirts of Moonbright during this whole conversation. While staring into the direction of Snake-thorn forest. (These four NPC's character sheet will make their way onto the Character thread, once they interact with players.)

@Jin of Mana

The locket opened and closed within his palm, catching Jinx's attention right away. She figured that that was the same locket, the weeping widow was offering. She also noted the fact that Jin's mind was elsewhere. She smiled at his comment about the clothes,"Oh no need to worry. The drawstring is keeping the pants up. I usually am not this thin either. As said haven't really eaten in awhile. When I do, I usually fill out a bit more."

Jinx felt silly talking about her weight, she just hated the silence. Jin seemed like a solemn stay at home guy, who seemed perfectly comfortable alone. She hated that. Since she was three she hadn't been truly by herself, so being silent made her feel awkward and nervous. She stood beginning to walk around and look at the small little knick knacks Jin had lying around. At the mention of the stew she had been smelling since she exited the bathroom, she gave a wide smile, drool almost dripping off of her lips,"OH YES! Haha, I quite literally am starving! I was waiting for you to mention it. Smells great by the way."

She stood up following him to the pot where he gave the stew a few more stirs,"Damn! That looks so good. You don't know how lucky you got it here man! Nice locket by the way. Belong to an ex-lover or something? Maybe your mom?"

Jinx gave a cheeky smile then turned back to the living room sitting on the chair and putting her feet up. Mia floated into the room and sat at the table, looking at an open book with a pensive stare. Jinx blinked a few times then turned to look out the window, her eyes glazing over the dark light hitting the nearby trees. She tried to stare deeper into the forest but blackness was at the end of her sight. She turned back to Jin who again looked like his mind was elsewhere,"I don't know where your brain is buddy, but your wasting precious minutes of your life in that spot. You can talk to me about it, if you wish. All my friends..are dead...so no need to worry about me spilling the beans."

Jinx inwardly laughed. Haha, that was a good one. I have been waiting to use that for forever! Pun number 187, COMPLETE!

Draco watched as Jin and Jinx moved through the forest, he decided to go into the forest, telling Jin he will return before nightfall. Before Draco could settle down anywhere, he needed to know the whole area was safe. As he wondered through the forest, his Eagle scouted high above, also keeping track of where he's been. A feint crack of a twig pierced Draco's ear. He turned fast, his hands opening a hole in space and pulling a demonic spear, he threw it before he even saw what it was. The figure ducked and the spear destroyed the tree, no, obliterated it. "color=That's no way to treat an old friend." Draco's eyes were wide, he was angry. "How... How did you find me Ajay!?" Ajay laughed, straighting himself up and pulling the spear from the tree, spinning it in his hands as he slowly walked forward, causing Draco to take a step back. "[colorf7976a]He was real mad you left, Demon Mage. So he gave me... a unique power. Shades. I merely created thousands of copies of myself and sent them around the world.[/color]" Draco stopped being angry, his stance went from fight ready to relax. He slightly smiled, "Well... now I know that you can't fight. Youre just a mirage. Well good luck getting to me, Ajay." Draco snapped his fingers, the spear in Ajays hand exploded in blood, the shade was dispeled from the world. "Shit..."

Isla

Isla was reaching into her bag and feeling around for something, when Lance asked to start a fire. The young woman hesitated before her fingertips brushed the cool, metal handle of the hairbrush in her bag. "If you could go without I would greatly appreciate it," Isla said, feeling badly about her answer, but knowing she really had no other answer to give.

Isla then quietly pulled out the silver brush with roses etched it in and plastic bristles, and began running it through her dark brown locks. In her mind she could see her mother, sitting at the end of her bed, brushing her hair with the same brush. And though the face was blurry, the brush was forever etched in her brain.

After a few minutes of brushing, Isla stopped and looked in the direction she thought Lance was in based on when he last spoke. "So, what about your family? What's life like for a magic user who doesn't hate humans?" she asked.

Jin chuckled from Jinx's remark and statements on food. "After helping him out, during a tough time, A merchant i met about three months ago told me this recipe. Actually, i'm kinda glad someone other than me is here. My ingredients needed to be used up or risk becoming spoiled."

Then Jin thought of the words Jinx spoke about life, the locket in his hands, and etcetera. Putting the locket around his own neck, it's concealed by being placed under his shirt. "Quiet a while after this necklace was given to me, I did love her, though failed her. It seems the organization we once affiliated with is far from kind to deserters. Guess I was the lucky one who survived the fleeting of the group. She and a few other very trusted comrades were killed that day upon our attempt to leave and start our own lifes, pursue our own desires."

Standing up Jin moves the pot of stew to the other side, cooler side, of the woodstove. Along with proceeded to get three bowls and eating utensils. Two he filled with food, giving one to Jinx, the third bowl was placed upon the dining table not far from the stove. If not obvious, the third bowl was for Draco, for when he ended up entering the home. These actions were performed rather somberly, Jin rather deep in thought. Yet this silence was broken, when he spoke again to Jinx.

"I find it sorta interesting... The one who gave me this pendant, we often spoke of a tranquil place like this to spend the rest of our days or operate out of. Sometimes I wonder, why I choose to stick around a place which very conception was done with someone who I failed."

Jin then slowly began to eat, not due to being sad, because the food was still rather hot in temperature. Sitting back in the same spot as before, attention occasionally bouncing from three places. His meal, Jinx, and the front door. Attention to the front door, was in case Draco entered the home.



Lance smiled, not offended or irritated by Isla's choice. Lance responded to her desire of no fire being made. The massive bag which once hung on his back, was now deflated on the ground nearby. It's contents were the bedroll and blankets which now were setup. "Absolutely."

The man then thought about his family, man, had it been a while since that subject was covered. Part of Lance debated on how much information should be given to Isla. Greatly due to Lance's perception of, the more information Isla knew the more danger she could be in. "Anyone who asks you, how much you know about me. I don't care if I'm in danger, or not, don't let them know what I've told you." A brief pause happened, while a bit of breath was taken in. "I barely remember my parents, mostly my elder brother took care of me and my younger sister. A bit after my parents disappearance, or our abandonment. My brother, and subsequently my little sister and I, joined a group or organization of individuals. Until we were old enough, my sister and I were taken care of by my brother on his free-time, or our caretaker. I say caretaker, but it was more like a trainer. Since we didn't get much time to be kids, instead trained for combat. Once old enough, we were sent on missions with our brother or other members. Though I don't find their ideals similar to mine. So, despite the dangers, i left. Now I look for another man, who I knew when in this group. To see if he'll help me, or at least warn him that the organization is desperately pursuing us in hopes of eliminating 'loose ends'. We didn't depart the organization at the same time, but did a few missions and gained a friendship during our time within the organization. As for life as a magi who doesn't hate humans. Everyone deserves a chance. Though once that chance is ruined, one may not be able to get another. Of course, things are a bit hard and a lot of misfortune has come from my chances given to humans, and magi. But i'm willing to live with that."

Lance held no knowledge of how Isla would react to all this information. Honestly the feeling was pretty good to finally tell someone his worries or story. Yet as prior stated, Lance only hoped this information wouldn't get Isla into trouble in the future, or place her in harms path.

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

Jin's tale made Jinx smile. Mr. Handsome was in love once, go figure! Her expression turned stern as she noted the sadness hidden underneath his tone as he spoke of her death. For a split second she wanted to offer him her services, but for some instinctual feeling she remained silent. As Jin offered her the stew she pulled it down to her lap wanting to eat rapidly with gusto. Instead she listened to his words and spoke up,"You didn't fail her, Jin. She made a choice, took a risk. I don't know circumstance or context but I know what guilt looks like. I don't want to offer unsolicited advice, but I can understand loss a bit better then most. I can't speak for the dead, but I know if she loved you, she would hate you blaming yourself, for something completely out of your control.

She took a bite of stew, before pausing, her eye twitching in pleasure,"HOLY FUCK! THIS IS THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER EATEN!"

Regardless of the heat she took spoonful after spoonful into her mouth, until she was scraping the bowl clean,"Damn that was good. Dear god. You never know how much you miss food until you don't eat." She eyed up the third bowl with want before turning to look at Jin who still remained pensive,"You know I had a thing once. This guy named Victor. He was this librarian who used to stop by my farm whenever the library got a new map in. He was always so enthusiastic, explaining new routes I could take and books that would help me survive. He took all my firsts. First kiss, first..., and first love. ONLY love."

She paused smiling back at the memory of the brown-haired boy with blue eyes and freckles. She looked over at Jin,"Didn't work out of course. I wanted to travel and see the world, and he was expected to have a family. So we both went our separate ways, he getting married and having three kids, two daughters and one son, and I have my maps."

She forced her smile,"People make choices, and I don't regret mine, I hate children."

She laughed, moving over to the stew bowl to take some more after asking Jin,"Wow this conversation turned serious, didn't it? Tell me something you like to do for fun! I bet you paint unicorns in your spare time? Am I right? If I go in your room are there gonna be hung up unicorn portraits?"

Jinx looked over at his bedroom winking awkwardly.

Isla

Isla was a little surprised Lance was so willing to go without the warmth of a fire. In traveling with others in the past, she had had to move herself to another location at night because of others desire or need to have one. And then she simply rejoined them in the daytimes.

She furrowed her brow at Lance's warning, but nodded solemnly, a curious frown on her face while he spoke. She listened intently, not only hearing his words but the emotions behind them until he finished. It was a lot to take in, and so she didn't respond immediately upon him becoming quiet.

"You don't have to worry about regretting giving me a chance," Isla said gently to reassure him about the last things he'd said. "What ever happened to your brother and sister?" she asked, unsure if perhaps they were dead, considering Lance wasn't looking for them. For some reason, she didn't imagine a brother and sister capable of tracking down a sibling to 'tie up loose ends'.

The man solemnly sighed. Though sadness was not as apparent in Jin's tone or demeanor. Almost finished with his food as he spoke. "That does make sense. To be honest I haven't really indulged many people with this information. Except that same merchant who gave me that, and several other, food ingredients and tips. His words were quiet similar to your own."

Standing and about to get more food. Jin offers to take Jinx's bowl. Along with asking her. "Do you wish to have more? Or should I put away your dishes? Also, thanks for the compliment on the meals quality. If you could imagine, the original chef of that dish prepared it much better."



Lance thought honestly and for quiet a few moments before responding. Truly thinking of what his siblings are doing now. Since he'd gone this far with divulging information, Lance figured he shouldn't really pull punches now. "My older brother. They probably have him doing 'top-caliber' missions as usual. I doubt he'd waste his time, or be sent to retrieve or eliminate me."

Lance then let out a weak chuckle. Obviously due to thinking about what he was about to say. "My little sister, on the other hand, I'd be shocked if she wasn't on the mission involving me. No doubt next time we cross paths she'll try to 'knock some sense into me'. Not only do we have a rather strong bond. Even if our superiors told her no, she'd be searching for me anyways. Unlike my brother and I, she is more of the 'cocky, act first and think after' types."

It reminded her of a home she had once known. Ris slowly inhaled the smells of wet dirt, pine trees, grass and all the other scents that were so familiar to her. Once the horses had passed the first few trees, she had immediately felt more at ease. After all this time, Ris was back in her element. She had spent the last few weeks, months even, in villages, towns and valleys where the lack of trees and pure air had always disturbed her. The wind rushing through leaves overhead sounded impossibly peaceful after all the chaos of the doomed town they had left behind. As they went deeper into the woods, the group slowed their pace considerably. The sun had long gone and letting their horses trip and fall in the dark wouldn’t be too helpful.

After some time, Fae suddenly indicated for them to halt, while there was nothing extraordinary about the place where he had decided to stop. At second glance, Ris noticed the very slight elevation of the ground. It reminded her a little of wild boars’ hidings she had come across every so often on her hunting tracks. The elevation was hardly worthy of the term ‘hill’, barely noticeable due to all the other shrubbery and foliage surrounding and covering it. Fae took a few steps towards the ‘hill’, leaving his horse in Levi’s care. Ris remained in the saddle a little longer, looking around at anything that might indicate a hideout. She had expected Fae to take them to another village, or a cabin perhaps. He wouldn’t have hidden any camping equipment out here, would he? If this really was a wild boar’s den, she cared little for staying here until morning when the beast would return. Ris made sure to keep an eye on Fae as she dismounted, who was now rummaging through the moss which covered the base of the ‘hill’ until suddenly he pulled back and a camouflaged hatched opened outwards.
Ris raised an eyebrow, even with her trained eye she wouldn’t have expected there to be a hatch over there. Impressive. Fae turned around, a faint smile on his face. It was obvious that he was glad to be here, and who could blame him, compared to what they had left, Ris was feeling overjoyed to be here as well. The group listened quietly as Fae explained the hideout’s layout, giving them directions on where to go for the different facilities.

After the briefing, Levi quickly offered to take care of the horses; unsaddling, wiping them down with grass and giving them some water and such. With as little words as usual, Romeo offered to help him and the two led the remaining horses after Fae. With a small smile, the boy promised to make them something to eat or drink with what he would find in the kitchen. In the meantime, Hilde and Ris accompanied Rich down into the hideout, leading him to the ‘dormitory’; a somewhat dank, Spartan room with six beds and a small closet. It wasn’t much, but it was more than enough to lay low and recover for some time, exactly what they needed. Hilde quickly explained what she had done thus far to help Rich and Ris send her off to gather a few buckets of water. She then turned her attention to Rich, instructing him to sit on one of the beds with outstretched arms, after which she soaked the bandages Hilde had hurriedly applied and carefully unwrapped them. Rich cringing slightly while she worked, finally showing signs of how much his burned hands actually hurt him.

“Unfortunately, most of my medical equipment is still in the boat, so I’ll just have to improvise a little, Rich. Hope you don’t mind. You can cry now, Hilde isn’t looking.” She added the last words with a smirk, hoping her words would distract him from the pain. The painkillers she had were still in the boat near Riverseed, along with her violin and other equipment. Rich merely shrugged, but a faint smile made his way to his face as well.

“A few scars here and there won't do my appearance any harm, don’t you agree? In fact, it'll only improve the whole brawly mercenary image thing.” Rich mused. Ris merely chuckled in response while inspecting the wounds. They should have been cooled as soon as Rich was burned, it had been over an hour and cooling was far less affective than it could have been.

“Ris?” Rich asked quietly, at which she mumbled something acknowledging. “Don’t trust that Fae alright? I have a bad feeling about all this.” Rich said, the usual mock completely gone from his voice. She looked up, surprised by the serious tone of his voice. After a few moments, she nodded. “I’ll keep it in mind.” Reassured, he sank back into the wall and let her carry on with her hardly adequate healing. She cooled the burns again with the flasks they had for drinking water, helped by Hilde as soon as the latter returned with more water.

“He’ll need to stay warm, please make sure that he remains covered with a blanket and his spare clothes, I have some you could use as well… Also, he should drink water frequently to ensure he doesn’t get dehydrated. If possible, he should keep on cooling his hands.” Ris instructed Hilde, after asking her to keep an eye on Rich, the latter protesting that he’d rather drink wine than water. Once she was sure Hilde was performing her task properly, Ris left the two alone. She knew little more than Hilde about medicine, and was of even less use without her medicines. She walked back towards the entrance, wondering where Fae had gone while she had checked on Rich. She came across Romeo who was sitting close to the hideout’s entrance, whom appeared to have taken the initiative of remaining on guard. His expression was even more grim than usual and Ris recalled that he had once told her that he deeply disliked the feeling of being trapped. Claustrophobia.

“Once things are clear I’m sure you can go up.” She told him, lightly touching his elbow to show she understood. He merely nodded, turning away from her and her touch like a hurt animal. Suppressing a sigh, Ris turned around to go in the other direction. It pained her to see how much the man had changed since Juliette’s death. He had never been outgoing, but this…

She quickly discovered Fae sitting at a desk, a candle lit up his face and plunged the rest of the room in even deeper shadows. Like most rooms in the hideout, this one seemed stably constructed, but decorated in a Spartan fashion. There was but one other chair near the desk, where Ris sat down. She coughed softly, to catch Fae’s attention.

“Hey… I just really wanted to thank you. For getting me and my companions out of there. You obviously know a lot more about what was going on there, so I doubt we would have been able to get out of there without your help.” She moved around on her chair a little nervously, it was awkward to admit she wouldn’t have been able to lead the group to safety. Besides, she was talking to a man both Rich and Dike had warned her not to trust. She examined Fae’s appearance carefully, her eyes lingering on his. That’s impossible, he couldn’t be…

After a few moments of silence, she continued. “And the hideout… It’s amazing, thanks again. I have quite a few questions as you might imagine. If you don’t want to answer, I’ll refrain from asking them for now, I’m your guest after all. If you have any questions of your own, feel free to ask me.”

@Jin of Mana & @Hippo AF

Jinx felt defeated at the fact her joke didn't put a rise in him, and passed him the bowl,"No problem. Good food is...good food. I think I've had enough. I want more, but I fear my stomach might rupture with one more piece of potato." She paused letting a yawn escape her lips,"Sleep would be nice though."

She was exhausted. After her long day of travelling, dying and pulling herself out of a grave, her body was worn down and ready to recharge. She moved to a small rug laying out on her back getting comfortable,"Mmm...I feel really safe here. You never really know how homesick you are until your in a home. Sorry...I won't bore you with the details of my loneliness. There aren't too many that I keep locked away. Actually I have made many memories on my travels. Good ones.."

She paused her eyes staring ahead in memory,"Bad ones. Anyway...be careful with the hot red-head outside. He's trouble. Also again. Thanks Jin.."

Within a few moments snores came off of the floor and Jinx was asleep, her black hair slung behind her as she breathed shallowly, the pale blue of her skin a contrast to the rug beneath her. She curled to the left pulling up her knees to get more comfortable. Sleeping on the floor of a strangers house was something Gilbert would very much object to, but in this case she felt safe and comfortable. Weird. Might as well enjoy the comfort now though, she had a very bad feeling that tomorrow would be one hell of a bad day.

He heard mumbles from all around as soon as the group had settled into his humble abode. It was a name he could call it. Nostalgia and melancholy spurted from the walls and drowned his vision with everlasting memories. It was a trip to be cherished, and feared, with connotations of good and bad times to surface the shadows they'd hidden within. Fae was indeed where he belonged, where he had trained to live and cope. This was the habitat for himself, the master of the Ring Forest. The darkness of the hideout acted as a screening area, for where light shadow puppets of flashbacks could be projected onto the walls and floors. The show of what he'd been through here kept recalling over and over. It was bliss. It was until he was pulled back into the reality he should be living in.

She returned. The girl, the woman. He hadn't learnt her name still. Remarkable. To think he'd learnt more of her own team than herself was quite a peculiar way of making allies, or enemies. She had done a standard cough to grab his attention, which had indeed worked. The silence he was gifted with was easily broken, but by all good measures. First, there came the gratitude. This, indeed, surprised Fae. In all honesty, it touched his soul and heart. To hear, after all these years spent working in the low-life area trying to fight a secret war, and to finally get gratitude from revealing himself as a subject of the realm...It made him smile slightly. It was a genuine smile. Not a cheeky, confident or friendly one...One of self-pride. That sense to thank the person back without any need of words. It was a simple emotion, but one that spoke more than any adviser could. She then began asking questions...Well, hinting towards them. It was about time that Fae would give her what he bargained for. That is fair...

"Right...I can already answer those questions without even the need to be asked..." He took a deep breath. This was the first time he'd be speaking to an outsider about this. Whether it would benefit him, or not, was out of his own control. He could only pray against the latter.

"More than ten years ago, during my child/teenhood era, there was something that lived throughout history, and will do forever. I'm sure you heard of what the Thalburn were dealing with in the papers of the realm, the heralds of the streets. Rebellion, they would cry, correct? Not many believed it, but those who did...Well they weren't half blessed with good-will, I'll tell you that...The Ty' Un Rebellion, Fighters of the Old Tongue, as our opposition nicknamed us. We were led by a man of the name Sarkath, very infamous. The Thalburn had been exposed for their exploits in their lower citizens. The oppressive nature gave us a cause. We were to get as much corruption in the Realm as we could, or die trying...Through Unity and Strength..."

He paused, trying not to get too patriotic about his pause. Though she herself did not look bored, but more like a child listening to a story, he was sure to not take any chances. A good connection to those living in his house would be the better way to start things off, especially after what they saw him do in MiddleSeed. Why was he telling her this? Well...His mission was out of the way, to get the documents and messages over to the Alfheim. If he were to die doing what happens next, then he'd have died knowing he did right.

"Heralds of different places depicted us differently. A religious cause, some said...Military strength, another. We were more than that. We were a bond of Magi and Humans alike, settling differences aside to conflict the largest danger in our very time. The war and oppression between man and magi was more than enough to bind us together. We took advantages of our strengths, weaponry, knowledge and powers. This allowed us to become a valuable asset against the Thalburn, and other factions that aligned with them. Rebellion of old Tongue is named for our speciality. We are all taught in an old Language that Sarkath used to first build the army up in secrecy. Vy Nu, my own name in the tongue, set me into my own individual spot. An army of many religions, cultures and races...But with one banner to follow. What we fought for was to be given back to rightful leaders before the days of oppression...Well, it was going to be like that...The Battle of Two Confrontations, I'm sure you've heard of that. Eight years ago, it was....I was there, after the Settlement Campaign that kicked it all off. Inside the Thalburn walls, everyone outside was almost slaughtered...Including Faran, the catalyst for this introduction we share..."

He paused once more. Reminding himself of the massacre from either side, it was difficult to think about. How his partner and friend, Isiah, was cut down by the ruthless captain. The one's who wore special armour and handled special weapons, and hunted down the largest of threats. The ones...Like the Hunters of MiddleSeed. He questioned his chance of survival knowing they knew about him now...Fae did not want to think about the massacre anymore. It was haunting his expression.

"Faran was a friend of mine, still is...He is a good man, just...He's different. He was a headline hero for the Ty' Un rebellion, his Magi abilities with the art of the Fire Pike made him a formidable opponent. It's what saved him in the end, as well. He still fights publicly...Trying to show that the Thalburn and its associates can still be damaged, even without the large force that we once had. What happened at MiddleSeed...It was just his sign, unfortunately he had to do it during my time there."

Fae turned, now looking up from his desk. He could feel her eyes burn into the back of his skull without moving, listening to every detail stated. She wanted answers, this woman, and she was determined to get the ones she wanted.

"That woman you saw me kill...She must've been a part of a Thalburn force more secretive than the regular Expeditionary Force or Guards Regiment...She attacked me anyway, so I reacted. I've been living in MiddleSeed for a long time, trying to hide myself from the Thalburn, right under their noses. I don't even know how many numbers of us there are, but what I do know is where to find them and raise the awareness of their need again. That letter...The one I gave your friend, was a documented piece of evidence regarding the Thalburn Settlement Operations, the expansion of their kingdom, and a possible declaration of war against the other cities and Kingdoms of this realm. It also contains a completed document, explaining the mechanics of their firearms. The musketeers, remember? We salvaged parts and sent them over in secrecy, about ten villages did. We might be able to develop our own firearm team before the end of the week or so...Depends if they make it or not."

He unsheathed the hatchet still in his sheath. Taking it out, he rubbed a finger across the blade to ensure it was still in its sharpest form. Either way, the groggy finger left the metal, and he placed it down beside the candle. Sitting up straight, he looked at her once more. Perhaps...He could get some answers herself.

"Look...I know how everyone else feels about me, how you'd feel. Suspicion, scepticism, worry...It's been easy to see that...Your expressions, low conversations 'out-of-sight' and that thirst to find out more. I don't want to be seen as any hostile to you, but if that is how you feel, I can respect you for doing so...But either way...Who exactly are you? I've heard them calling you Ris, but you said you go by many names before..."

Jeanne Christina Roussin

Fae smiled as she expressed her thankfulness. It was an honest smile which took her aback a little. For some reason she hadn’t expected that, it made him look a lot younger, around her age. A lot more human. She listened carefully to his story, her legs crossed and hands lying relaxed in her lap. When he paused his story to look at her, she didn’t interrupt his story and continued to listen intently. Due to having studied the history of several of the nearest kingdoms, she had heard the name of Ty’Un or Sarkath’s Rebellion mentioned before, but she had never heard any details beyond the mentioning of the Battle of Two Confrontations and the very inadequate description of ‘it was a small rebellion, doomed to fail and so it did’. To actually meet someone who had participated in these events and was willing to share his own experiences of what she had been taught about was unimaginably fascinating. The scholar tucked away deep inside of her craved for something to take notes with, but the pragmatic mercenary leader just sat and listened instead.

Fae continued speaking of the noble goals his Rebellion had strived for, becoming more passionate about it as the words streamed from his mouth. Ris’ expression softened, his enthusiasm was contagious. Wouldn’t that be the perfect solution towards all this hatred and fighting; Uniting as one to fight a common enemy? But it had happened before, history told of alliances made and broken once the common enemy was defeated, internal strive always resulting in friction between Magi and Humans over time… Such a hopeless time they lived in.

‘Human and Magi alike’… Those four words gave her goose bumps and let the feelings of unease return. She had stopped to inspect his features, convinced that even Aleks wouldn’t be so crafty. Still, there was another, perhaps even more dangerous possibility that she had hardly dared to consider as of yet. It could be that Fae was indeed who he said he was… And more, he could be a Magic User himself. The thought unsettled her more than she dared to admit. She was genuinely grateful for his help and more than that, he appeared to be the kind of person she could befriend given time. She liked his honesty, and respected how he could put his trust in her; opening up about the secrets of his past just like that to a stranger. She on the other hand was still very much distrustful towards any strangers, one could even call her paranoid sometimes. Not one of her finest traits, but she had her reasons… As for witnessing him murdering a woman in cold blood, most of her current companions had killed in a brutal fashion before, and not always out of self-defence. And despite that, they were good people.

She had stayed silent while he explained more about the Revolution, Faran and the woman whom he had killed. That all explained so much, such as the words he had spoken and she hadn’t understood. She had rather not learned more of Faran though. Learning about their backstory always made Magi targets seem more human to Ris, which made it harder for her to hunt them down without any feelings of guilt or sympathy.

“I just have to say, I’m very willing to believe Faran has his reasons for acting like he does, I suppose even Magi do.” Her jaw tightened and her opinion on the other race could easily be read in her grim smirk, frown and mocking tone. She locked eyes with Fae and while she felt he understood and possibly would agree with her, she still needed to express her frustration.

“But despite his reasons, he hurts innocents and ruins lives of those uninvolved in this seemingly unending conflict between races. Call me idealistic, but I don’t believe in killing or hurting innocents just to make a statement. Revolutions strive for change, but change always requires blood. The sacrifice of blood belonging to those willing to shed it, I can accept, but not the blood of those unwilling to die for an abstract concept such as change.” She breathed out sharply, it had been far too long since she had let out her opinions and they tended to bottle up inside of her, becoming sharper and sharper until they seemed to physically hurt her. Ris looked away from him as she ran a hand through her hair, sweeping the loose strands out of her face.

“I’m sorry… That was uncalled for, wasn’t it. It’s a worthy goal you strive for, but Magi… I… I’m just a woman of very little faith… Faith in people I suppose. Reason of why I’m always distrustful towards strangers, nothing personal.” She smiled curtly at that, unconsciously grabbing the pendant hanging around her neck, caressing it softly with her thumb, her expression blank while she descended into the labyrinth that were here thoughts again.

“Ah.. You asked who I am, didn’t you? Lemä stop me from rambling.” She seemed to relax a little again, the way he had posed the question confirmed that he wasn’t who she had feared him to be. Or his acting had to be even better than she knew it to be. “The way I phrased it before seems a whole lot more mysterious and interesting than the actual story I’m afraid, so I’ll keep it short for the sake of not boring you out of your mind. My whole name is a mouthful, so people simply call me Ris, a nickname my aunt gave me once. But feel free to pick Jeanne Christina Roussin, Rous, Chris, Tin, Fiddler, Vilda Dačhar, Princess Arrow or Risk if you prefer.” She said, an amused smile remaining on her face this time as she counted down names and nicknames on her fingers.

“And before you ask, yes, they all have their own story and no, I won’t share them yet, those require a fire, snow and something hot to drink. Back to your question, I’m from a town up north called Elmend, you might have heard of it due to its woodwork and the faith of Lemäika, though the first is more famous I believe. I left that town a few months back. I don’t intend on going back, so I suppose it’s of little relevance to you. Right now I’m what you could call the leader of this small band of Magi Hunters. There’s somewhat of a guild in place we all belong to, but nothing too well-organised. We track down any rogue Magi with a price on their heads, which is why we are after Faran now and apparently why we came across you. All of us have our reasons to join in such an enterprise, mostly out of a deeply rooted hate for Magi or just as a way of making money… I don’t feel it’s my place to share everyone’s story though.” She shrugged a little apologetically. “I believe that should about answer your question, it seems a little overboard to share my entire life’s story with you right now. And thank you for answering quite a few of my unasked questions."

"And before I forget, there’s something more practical I’d like your opinion on; Would it be possible to travel to Riverseed sometime soon? I’m afraid we left some of our supplies behind in our optimism, supplies we might very well need. Or do you believe it would be wiser to wait a few days before asking the gods for a favour again?” Before he could respond, she held her hand up, her expression growing a lot more serious.

“But more importantly, I have two other questions for you. Why now; Why would you incite the revival of your rebellion after all these years? It seems like your goal was to stay out of sight all these years… Why not act earlier or later?” She paused briefly before asking the question that was bothering her most. Afraid of what he might answer and the possible consequences. “You told me a little of who you are… But what are you. Human or Magi?” She leaned a little forward in her chair, keeping eye contact as she rested her elbows on her knees and her chin on her intertwined fingers. Involuntarily her eyes kept shooting back to the blade he had pulled out, now lying on the table. She didn’t feel too threatened by the gesture, but nevertheless cursed her thoughtlessness in leaving her weapons in the dormitory. If Fae would end up killing her, she just had to make sure to make enough noise to warm her companions. They still outnumbered him, even when not counting Rich and Levi.
A comforting thought.

Isla

Isla stretched as Lance looked thoughtful, wrapping her cloak around her as it got colder and she assumed, darker.

"Hmm," Isla said, a frown on her face when Lance explained about his siblings. They sounded particularly dangerous, almost like targets she would choose to get rid off in any other situation. But considering they were Lance's siblings, she supposed if they ever ran into each other she'd at least hesitate.

"It's too bad," Isla murmured, laying down and cuddling with her satchel like a pillow. "People like that have lived when my siblings had to die," she again said quietly, eyes closed and thoughts tumbling as she tried to sleep.

Fae suddenly felt a sense of trouble, sorrow and fear flood through him when she spewed out her first responses. It was the expression, and the tone...It gave him something to be quite fearful about. The grin, the jaw tighten, the mocking voice...Had he introduced a biased group into his homestead? What's more, were they going to be happy with him being of both blood? The way she listened had filled him with confidence, up until the last five words. 'I suppose even Magi do.' He wanted to respond, but she continued, and he listened on.

She continued further and further down the rabbit hole. She wasn't creating a good impression to him. After seeing someone who potentially spared him out of sympathy, to only reveal as some sort of grudged individual started to cause his hair to stand on loose ends. She talked about Faran, in ways that gave him conclusions in his mind. She had seemed so lovely, so kind-hearted at first. It was someone he thought he could finally get along with, and relate to in some matters. But what she explained about Faran's actions began to prove an obvious answer. She was told by someone to chase after Faran, maybe with money or honour on the line. It began to make him tense up further. He had no need to attack anyone, because that wouldn't be the way of Sarkath. But this woman, had no idea who contracted her in the first place, did she?

Jeanne, as he had given her the name due to her many titles, rambled about her life, her birthplace. Religious as such, it seemed to confuse him. Did her religion portray hatred and inequality throughout life? From what he knew, there was nothing of that from her origins. The coin that needed to be brought into her hands made him uncomfortable. What if he were just the next target, and she'd already won the game of cat and mouse? She tried justifying herself, but was contradicted by what she had said before. 'Nothing personal' didn't seem to fit her side of the story; the tale of her past seeming to cancel it out as if she never said it in the first place. It was time, at this point, to retaliate with his words. Peaceful needed to be his course of action. Nothing could be done to antagonise her.

"Before we get to that answer...Let me just question you on some of your descriptions...A religious woman, you must be? Hailing from a place like such, referencing in casual blasphemy towards the local icon to that religion? I'm not a well informed man about this particular faith, but what does it believe in? Does it cherish equality and justice amongst the races of this realm? It doesn't add up to me, unless of course the religion supports the idea of biased segregation?" His tone had slightly changed. It wasn't violent, no not one bit, but it was different, less relaxed. It almost sounded frightened to some degree. She would see it, his general worry. He was never subtle about his emotions when he needed to be.

"So you're a mercenary too? Hired because of a big price. Take the highest bidder, no matter what the reason is...Or who the bidder was? You are aware of who sets these prices on Magi, do you? I wouldn't be surprised if the Lord General of the Thalburn had set such a bounty on Faran, seeing as the two have run into each other before...But what would anger such people? Oh, that reminds me...That concert was filled with many Thalburn representatives. Now, I can see your...Anger...Towards Faran for the casualties in-between, and let me assure you...So am I? But what does that make me? Does that make me any different from you? I bet Faran himself even regrets it. He usually does...You know, especially because he kills for a cause, and not cash." His words were flowing quickly. His mind buzzed with questions and answers that were too quick to catch up with, even for himself. She could be readying a dagger as they spoke. Fae had to plan his words carefully, because in no doubt she was going to cut his throat. He better make it count.

"And I can see it in the expression...There'll be a cliche amongst the group, won't there? Magi killed a family member, I presume? It isn't an angry mock towards the issue, any issue like that is sad. But if something, anything, is remotely similar to being wronged in the past does not justify the actions you've just described to me. What is it that ALL magi are guilty of, exactly? Do you not just hunt down humans, or only take orders from dictators? Why not just grab a job for the Thalburn King? I hear he pays more money for practically the same job...Don't you stop to think about individuality? Not ever Magi user is a war-criminal. I've seen both sides. There's no difference except abilities. It's either you fear them, or you are jealous of them. Both of which don't show much thought being put into a matter. If it were the other way around, wouldn't you agree with my statement, if I were hunting down Magi or Humans? And if you are only hunting down the Magi for coin...Well then, I don't think I should bother putting my opinion forward on that. And with what Faran did...Don't you think it's wiser to openly act for a cause, than to hunt in the shadows without one? Might give you something to think about."

His voice had lowered as he took to his feet. It wasn't mocking, angered or hostile. It was sorrowful, defensive-ish and almost informative. It was his job in life to do this, to ensure he expressed himself before death. Fae's arm took the hatchet from the table in where it was placed and into his sheathe quickly. It didn't indicate any type of hostility or attack, seeing as he moved away before committing to such an action. He had to give it to her, she was strong in her faith...Even if it was against what he wanted in life. Confidence in opinion was not something that was common these days, and many just followed the common rabble.

"I can respect you for being so strong and confident to tell me all of this information. Must take a lot of gut and self-discipline to do so, am I right?" Perhaps his flood of questions against what she had said was too much for her, or perhaps not enough. He didn't care. She'd kill him no matter what, wouldn't she? Especially after he answered the last question. He moved away from the desk slightly, and lit another few candles and lanterns around the room, lighting it up more. Documents and letters pinned onto the wall became visible. Each had stories of missions, of combined operations between the members of the rebellion.

"So let me just answer that question truthfully, even with the fear of my own safety...I'm a half-blood. Magi and Human parents...Magi powers are present, but not as powerful or long-lasting as the rest. You want more comforting with knowledge? I can form an outer-layer of skin, or armour, consisting of hard rock-substances as a short defensive. But after saying that...Are you going to kill me? You hate Magi right, and I'm half of what you despise, if not your group. So if you plan on doing so, go ahead...But heath what I have to ask. Does me being one make you fearful, like most magi do when near a human? Does me being one make me untrustworthy, despite me putting all my trust in you this minute? I have many prices on my head, why not claim them now? Because there's a world that I can see, somewhere in the future...Where I know what I've done today will end what you might do now...If you do it, that is...Jeanne.."

Jeanne Christina Roussin

"Before we get to that answer...Let me just question you on some of your descriptions...A religious woman, you must be? […] It doesn't add up to me, unless of course the religion supports the idea of biased segregation?"

“Blasphemy?” She interjected, a somewhat amused smile playing around her lips. “Ah, yes, some more common religions forbid their followers to name their god by their names don’t they? We call upon Lemä, the mother whenever we need her, and like most mothers it can irritate her if one keeps on calling her name, but it’s nothing near as serious as ‘blasphemy’. My religion has very little to do with any of this. Lemäikan are obliged to be strong, kind, compassionate and fierce like the Mother herself. It’s a very informal religion compared to most others I’ve learned of. Lemä is just a fact of life, rather than some faraway deity. I wouldn’t call myself a ‘religious woman’ either, it’s not like I’m a priestess… We don’t have a set of strict rules, aside from treating one another like brothers and sisters… While we might fight, we’re all bound by blood in the end and should try to get along. Magi are said to be the odd one out in the family though… Unnatural creatures… I’m not that good at explaining it really, it has always confused me… Please, let’s refrain from starting a theological discussion, I’d love that some other time but not now.”

"So you're a mercenary too?” Fae continued, barely letting her finish her explanation before verbally attacking her on another point. “Hired because of a big price. Take the highest bidder, no matter what the reason is...Or who the bidder was? You are aware of who sets these prices on Magi, do you? [..] Don't you think it's wiser to openly act for a cause, than to hunt in the shadows without one? Might give you something to think about." He stood up and started walking around. She just remained sitting, taken aback by his sudden fierceness, the judgement in his voice. It hurt her more than she would have expected. Especially since many of these questions were ones she asked herself whenever sleep refused to come to her at night. He continued without giving her a chance to interject, this time speaking of his heritage, what he was, what he could do and posing her confronting question after question.

"… There's a world that I can see, somewhere in the future...Where I know what I've done today will end what you might do now...If you do it, that is...Jeanne.."
Jeanne… It had been a long time since anyone had called her that. And for reasons she could hardly understand herself, the rush of his words combined with the sound of her own name from his lips made her lose her carefully crafted composure. She felt her face grow hot at his accusations, but decided to just ignore it, hoping that he wouldn't notice her embarrassment.

“You… Have no idea who I am or who my companions are. Sure, you can call it ‘stereotypical’, but let’s see you deal with your fiancé, your child, your wife being killed by a certain group of people. Let’s see then, if you have enough compassion in you not to start hating those responsible.” She looked at Fae with a bewildered expression, she just didn’t understand how he could say such a thing.

“It’s the hard truths you want from me? Fine, I’ll heed your words and be completely honest with you. I hope, I truly do, that not all Magi are monsters and of course I don't blame them all for what some did. But every single one I met has only giving me more reason to distrust their kind... You have no idea how hard it is to just let your hopes be shattered time and time again... Only to pick it up and offer it to the next... I'm distrustful for a reason." As she spoke, the fire inside her chest grew, fanned by the fear that he might be right, she stood up and continued talking with large hand gestures as she grew more passionate in her monologue.

"In truth I only joined this whole circus to find someone I have some business to settle with. And knowing him, he’ll show up on the wanted lists sooner or later. You can think all you want about me, but I DON’T kill or hunt people just for money. And even if I did, do you honestly believe that killing for your own ideals is better than killing to survive? You take lives either way and your victims won’t profit from this better world you’re striving for. As I said before, I’m fine with people laying down their lives for the things they believe in… I’m not fine with innocent people being killed for things they don’t believe in. Sure, call me a hypocrite, but I try my best only to go after those who deserve it and then I still try not to kill them. Thank Lemä Dike agrees with me and that he does research of his own on the targets we chase…. Faran frequently kills innocents, he might not intend to do so, but he does. I can’t believe that you’re so blind as to think he should be left alone. He will make the same mistakes again, whether he regrets his actions or not. Just look at the sheer amount of incidents he has caused in the past year. So don’t… Don’t go ahead and think I just go on a killing spree whenever I’m in need of cash. Don’t presume to think you know me after spending only a few hours with me.”

Ris sighed deeply, sitting back in the chair again as the anger subdued as suddenly as it had been inflamed. She started rubbing her temples once she realised she recognised the fearfulness in Fae’s voice and expression. It always bemused her how older, stronger and taller people could be fearful of her, but she didn’t show the bemusement this time. “You really don’t need to fear me Fae. As I said when we first met, I don’t kill or hurt people… Even half-Magi, just for the sake of it. If anyone here should be frightened, it should be me. You’re the one with the weapon after all.” She added, holding her hands up to emphasize that she was unarmed. “And I’m really sorry if I made such a bad impression that you’d think I’d repay the one who provided shelter for me and my friends by killing him. My words might be sharp, but I have some humanity left.” Humanity… She still couldn’t believe that Fae wasn’t completely human. It confused her and she really had no idea how to respond to him.

The implications of his unique heritage made her fall silent for some time. His participation in a rebellion like his suddenly made much more sense now. While she still saw the two races as destined to be at war forever, his very existence proved that a compromise, maybe even a permanent reconciliation was possible. Such a reconciliation was in fact a reconciliation of the two pieces of his identity. No wonder he was striving for peace… His specific power also explained how he had survived a hit like the one he had taken in Middleseed…

Magi and human… The impossible romance. It sounded so painfully familiar. She couldn’t help but think of what had happened with his parents. Had they died, trying to protect one another? Had they split up with a child underway? Had they been killed by someone who detested the idea of the two races coming together? Surely such a relation couldn’t have anything but a tragic ending. For once however, she refrained from asking her questions. Instead she just sighed, trying to fight back the tears which she felt burning behind her eyes. The sadness from memories Fae had brought back, the beginning of hope, embarrassment at the realisation that his words hurt her so much because there was truth in them, angriness at his judgement but most of all confusion and tiredness made her slump back into the chair. She pulled her legs up and under her while letting her face rest in her hands. She wouldn’t let him see her cry, before he’d feel pity… Or worse, think that she was trying to manipulate him with a crying-fragile-girl-act.

“Alright… This complicates things. Please, just let me pretend you didn’t say anything about that… Don’t tell Hilde or Romeo about your heritage, no matter what. They don’t have any mercy left in them. Being as ‘cliché’ as they are.” She mumbled through her fingers, putting the last sarcasm she could muster in her voice. She slowly breathed in and out, trying to calm herself. “Rich is in it for the money I believe… He wouldn’t care much about your heritage, but don’t go yelling any louder about the bounties on your head. Levi will likely not believe you… I… I can hardly believe it myself.” After a short silence she added “I’m sorry about your parents, they can’t have had it easy…. I know, oh I know.” She tried to swallow it away, but the first tears already rolled down her cheeks. She tried her best to smile and wipe them away, but the smile was as fragile as her voice and the tears just kept coming.

“I’m fine… I’m fine. It’s… It’s just b-been a long day.” She stood up, listening to a sudden impulse that occurred to her. “I’m taking one of the horses, I’ll get those supplies I w-was speaking of… Rich needs medicine… Be sure to get some sleep. And… Romeo… Relieve Romeo from his w-watch… We all need our sleep.” A week smile crossed her lips, she didn’t dare look at Fae and wished he hadn’t lit those other candles, hoping against hope that he wouldn’t notice how she was breaking down. She just really needed to get away, be alone for some time.

As the the setting sun was about halfway below the horizon and with MiddleSeed not having been visable behind them for a while now, Darius checked how his mount was doing before pulling up next to Dike. Waiting until the man noticed him, Darius said, "Do you think we should slow our pace and start looking for someplace to camp the night?"

Dike looked to the side, expecting the young man riding next to them. After that he looked from the moon that had come out and was shining brightly, to their surrounding area while considering Darius' question for some time. Involuntarily he looked back at where the town had disappeared behind the horizon as well. "Good call. Best look for some cover as well, in case some of those boys decide they fancy a nighttime chase." With those words, he slowed down his horse and started looking around for a sheltered position not too far from the road. After some time they rode past a group of trees, which Dike pointed out to Darius.

"Thanks" was the only thing he said as he nodded in agreement to Dike's idea of finding cover. Slowing his horse as well, he started looking around. When Dike pointed to group of trees, Darius took a moment to look at them before saying, "That will probably work." As soon as they had dismounted, Darius tied up his horse and took a moment to look for a good spot that couldn't be seen directly from the road. Upon finding it, he took a moment to check his travel pack and make sure he had everything on him. After showing the spot to Dike and setting up camp, he sat down and propped himself against a tree. Thinking of home a bit, he pulled out his throwing knives and started practicing with them on a nearby dead log.

The two had refrained from making a fire in case there were indeed people chasing them. Most of Dike's supplies had been left at the boat in Riverseed, as he and his companions hadn't expected a hurried departure. Something he should have known better about, being in this profession for such a long time. Had he started to become forgetful and lazy over the years? Dike made sure to unsaddle and wipe down his horse with some grass, it could catch a cold and become sick if just left out here covered in sweat. After that he set down his rucksack with woefully little supplies. Fortunately it was a warm summers night, and so the lack of a fire and blanket wasn't such a bad thing. He unsheathed his sword as soon as he had found a comfortable stone to sit on and started wetting the blade. Meanwhile he shot some looks at his newest companion, who was slowly turning the log in a Swiss Cheese lookalike.

"Not bad. Might want to open your other eye too. It comes most natural to aim with one eye closed, but once you have enough skill it's better to use both your eyes. Seems like you have the skills alright, you'll see it helps." After this sudden piece of advise, he continued. "So, Darius. What brought you to Middleseed with such poor timing? And where you from?"

Noticing Dike sitting down to sharpen his blade out of the corner of his eye, Darius was bit startled by the man's sudden advice and stopped mid flick, keeping ahold of the knife to make sure it didn't go flying someplace else. "Thanks for the advice, I'll try it out."

Returning his gaze to the log and taking the advice, he started throwing his knives anew while listening to Dike's questions. As the first two thudded into the log a bit farther from his target then he wanted, he took a moment to think before replying. "Well, I actually came to see the music festival. I'd heard that it was going to be one of the best performances yet, and since I love music I decided to drop by. As for where I'm from, I guess you could say I'm from a not well known but definitely unique place. It's a small city where most stuff is powered by steam. You end up seeing more pipes then plants there, and luckily enough the place is situated right next to a huge vein of coal, so besides a bit of trade between nearby towns and farms, it's kind of self sufficient. What about you? What were you and your friends there?"

"Steam you say?" Obviously the thought of a whole town completely running on steam perplexed the man and he sat silently for some time, lost in thought. "I've seen a thing or two on my travels, but a steaming town... Must be quite the sight." Meanwhile he continued to wet his blade with strong, sure movements, which had become such a routine over the years that it didn't require his full attention.

"Officially I'm the leader of that sorry group." He broke the silence and smiled broadly at Darius. "Though I'm allowing the girl you met before, Ris to think she is. Think you two are 'round the same age. A little too keen on raising her voice and slow to admit her wrongs, but she's a fine gal. I have to admit though, as an old friend of her family I'm not really unbiased... A shame you're stuck with me then. The two girls in our group are musical ones, I can hardly hear the difference between a flute and a horn." He added the latter with a muffled laugh.

"We're Magi bounty hunters. Were in town chasing a particularly dangerous one. A fire-Magi, nasty sort. Has been causing disturbances for the past few years, often ending in folks killed or towns burned to the ground... Sad to say today wasn't any different." His smile disappeared as he spoke, and instead his left eye started twitching slightly.

"Eh, it's interesting to say the least, but the air is very stuffy." Finally getting more used to using both of his eyes, Daruis got his last knife to sink in right next to another one. While listening to dike, he smiled as he heard him talk about the small group Darius had met earlier, a laughed with the man a little as he described his lack of musical inclination and of Ris, the one who Darius had thought was the leader. "Ahh well, I don't mind trading music for experiance, which I'm guessing you have a lot of."

Deciding he'd practiced enough, Darius put 6 of the throwing knives away into their respective slots on his travel pack and tucked the last on into a hidden sheath on the inside of his shirt while continuing to listen. His skin chilled a bit when he heard that they were Magi bounty hunters, but knowing that he himself didn't have a bounty on his head, he was able to keep himself calm. "That explains some things, considering all that's just happened," he replied, looking up at the moonlit trees.

After a bit of time he said. "To be honest, my personal philosophy is to give everyone a chance, human or magi. But after seeing what he did today, and hearing what you said, it probably would be better if he didn't get another chance, wouldn't it?" by the end of his sentence, Darius's tone was, although serious, a bit sad.

Dike remained silent for some time again,testing the sharpness of his blade and deciding it was acceptable once again. He carefully sheathed it again and put it besides his rucksack.

Finally, he replied with a shrug."There are some people who are better off kept away from society. Dangerous criminals. Honerable thinking that, giving everyone second chances. But at some point you have to stand up for what's right, instead of letting others walk over you. And in my experience, Magi are often the more dangerous kind of criminal, with their powers and whatnot. Rather than bounty hunter, I like to see myself as a freelance lawman." He added, smiling to make his words appear a little less serious.

"But enough of me rambling about my job, I think we should devide watches. I take the five, you the last?"

Laughing a little, Darius replied, "I think I may have worded my statement a bit oddly. I meant to say that I try not to judge anyone I meet and I'm polite to them until they give me a reason not to be. I fully understand that there are some sick people out there that probably get what they deserve and I'm glad there are those like yourself that put them away. I just try to give anyone I meet the benefit of the doubt, until they prove otherwise is all.

Setting his pack on the ground to act as a makeshift pillow, Darius layed back and said, "As for watch, sound perfect."