The razed village further cemented Snow's resolve. It was a full on attack. A full on invasion. How could they even warn anyone? How could anyone even miss the army and plumes of smoke? Would they even make it? Would anyone even listen? He looked at the ruins... then remembered that they were dealing with the dead. He pushed to move them forward. Any time wasted was another village destroyed. He almost felt bad that they had to stop. Fergus brought up not being used to roughing it, and made a point about his feet. Blisters would slow them down, and the last thing they needed was time to recuperate.

A stopped night. Snow thought back to some days on the Threshold. How they had to go hunting sometimes for dinner cause there was no supplies. He was surprised he still remembered how to snare. He wasn't a fan, going without meat for so long and then having to rely on it. He felt bad for the rabbit. Just cause the squirrel was small, it lives. This was before Cilia and Axley brought the mushrooms. It was a bit of good luck. The Dragons watching over them. He checked everyones feet and conferred the road ahead. They were close.

---

At the village, the fishing town. Life. Precious beautiful life. Happy and ignorant. They were less than a day from the village. It was only a matter of time. Snow was about to speak before Fergus promoted something to raise their spirits. "Fried in-" the former monk made a face, hand covering his mouth. "Sounds vile." But the decision was made. Sasuke offered to front the money, and he felt his meager pouch. "And don't forget about dried fruits. Much cheaper." He added before looking to them. Beside himself, he smiled. Things were high, and maybe it was worth a celebration.

But there was priorities... Namely to make sure this town didn't follow the same fate. "It is important to treat yourself from time to time. Enjoy friends, we are alive. I should be just a moment." He turned his head. "I need to find the princi-" He watched Cillia transform herself into a lady. As per typical, her pragmatic determined nature shows forth again. She was willing to do whatever it took to survive, and even more so to safeguard what was close to her. The two day trek had shown a side of tireless selflessness. She walked into the pub with the an ere of purpose, and for a moment Snow seemed quite dumbfounded. "What is she-"

He folded his hands into his sleeves and followed after her. She leaned on the counter, sticking her hips out and seemed to get the tender's attention... as well as a few others. Snow understood quite quickly.

Redheads do get alot of attention, that and with Axley, their attention was not ignored. Even the two half drunk patrons elbowed each other and looked at the exchange that Cilia managed to put on with the barkeep. One took a drink and leaned over, trying himself to get a peek at her shirt, maybe get her attention with a hand on her back, on her hip. See how much it would take to get her for a night. His hand raised and placed it down-

Snow felt a man's hand on his thigh as he suddenly interjected himself between her and the patron. "Cil-" He stopped as he felt the hand, then turned, locked eyes with the man, they stared eachother down for a moment, before Snow smiled and the man quickly withdrew his hand, looking weirded out. Snow finally was able to address. "Cilia? What are you doing?" He said, trying not to sound accusatory. "We have enough for a meal, and enough to get to the Crossing." He smiled softly then when his initial thought was she was doing this for them. "You should save that look for someone you love. For tonight, relax with us. You earned it."

The hand on her back was not really a big deal since she had braced herself and it was her choice. In a very sick way, it helped to make her point that they could help bring in money to the inn. A Bard like Axley did not frequent inns like this often, so this could be a good evening. Even in a small town the music would draw people down the street and they had an epic story they could tell. She knew this would work.

Cilia turned to look at Snow with her back to the drunk patrons. "Being pragmatic," she said. She knew that after pirates come the prices go up, the same was probably true for wars. "At this moment, I can work to pay for a meal and lodging for us. So, I try. As we travel further and warn people, we may need what little we have to survive or the cost maybe more than I can pay."

She turned back and continued, "I know that the Inn Keep needs to provide for his family, but a Bard will bring in more business even here. So he might show us some kindness and help us out." She said questioning. It was a different tact than where she was headed. At least it was safer till the drunk accidentally grabbed Snow inappropriately thinking it was her or a fight broke out. If grabbed she would do what Snow had taught her in self defense, break the man's finger. Maybe that is why wasn't treated with dinner often.

She waved the others in, so the Inn Keeper knew who he was dealing with and looked pleadingly at him. "Or maybe the Inn across the square might be interested in a bard and a waitress for the evening," she said with a wink at the drunk patrons. She would do everything she could not to make it easy for him to say no.

Now that everyone had finally decided to get along, Axley was more than eager to get this long journey out of the way. Follow the river, and things should go smoothly, right? It was a long journey, longer than Axley had had since her fleeing of her old home. Fitting, in an odd, depressing way. She was not one to grow tired; she spent entire days on her feet working the streets of the Imperial Ruins, and a long trek through the woods would not put her out so easily, especially when she knew that, in spite of her relative worthlessness in the field, the rest of the group was relying on her to stay strong and stalwart, even in the face of danger. Danger that seemed to crop up everywhere they went, even denying them easy access to the first town they came across. She had nearly rushed in of her own volition, expecting, almost hoping that she would find respite from the wear and tear of grief and travel. Unfortunately, it seemed this town had already been razed to the ground by whatever forces stood in their way. How incredibly frustrating. At least they seemed they had moved on...but they still couldn't enter. It was too dangerous if any forces were left behind for cleanup duty or as a sentry.

With a weary sigh, Axley continued to plod onward. Another night in camp was not welcome, but Axley managed to make do by taking the first shift while everyone else slept, leaving her alone to voice her darkest worries to herself with nobody listening. That alone was more than a load off; she was finally able to argue herself out of her inner despair. They would persevere, one way or another, no matter what darkness stood in their path. By the time her shift had ended, she was a reinvigorated woman, filled with the energy and desire to press onwards once more. Her efforts were rewarded by a sleepy fishing village later in the day. Two inns in such a small town...it almost felt as though it were crafted for the both of them. Axley was hurting for some well-prepared food instead of simply survivalist scrap. She normally would have worked a night and gotten her rest. After two days, she figured doing such a thing might work again. Hearing Fergus and Sasuke mention paying for everything brought a scowl to her face. How patronizing. She wasn't of the elite class, but at least she could still earn a living, even out here. She'd just have to prove it.

Funnily enough, Cilia had the same idea. As Axley watched her quickly pull an easy makeover in ten seconds flat, the bard couldn't help but smile. She'd helped Cilia get a bit more in touch with her feminine side when they both lived at Snow's sanctuary, and seeing her blossom so easily was almost a success in her own eyes. She'd grown up so much in just the few years she'd known her. And yet, Snow seemed a bit concerned on the matter of her exposing herself for monetary gain. The glare from Axley as Snow questioned her actions could have cut a metal sheet in half before she softened her gaze somewhat. He didn't deserve that kind of anger for being concerned. "Come on, Snow. Cilia is just doing what she feels is good for us. And do you honestly believe I'd let such a young blossom be deflowered so easily? I've been doing this for a living. I certainly wouldn't allow someone I care for to fall prey to the pratfalls of exhibitionism." Axley calmly dissuaded Snow's concerns before joining the young rogue as she spoke of the pair's talents. "Axley here at your service." The bard took a theatrical bow, lute in hand as though she were about to put on a performance. "I've played at a great number of inns and taverns and would be honored to add your own to my growing list of haunts. For the simple cost of a meal and a bed, I will be sure to leave your patrons enthralled and unwary of the jade they're dropping just to stay and listen to my song."

Fergus' brow furrowed as everyone seemed to be a bit at odds over what to eat and who was paying. Cilia seemed to just ignore the squabbling and immediately went to work trying to earn a meal that was already going to be paid for, followed quickly by Axley. Snow followed the ladies into the Squeaky Wheel as well, leaving Sasuke and Fergus to thwir own devices outside. Frustrated with the behavior and apparent ungratefulness of his cohorts, Fergus grumbled to his fellow patrician.

"I swear... no matter how nice I try to be, the poor always seem to hate me just because I have the ability to help them. Do you get that much as a Tepet? Or is it just because I hail from the House of the Empress that I'm treated with a bit of extra disdain?" A sigh, then a hand motion for Sasuke to follow him inside. "Let's go in and get bitched at for paying for everything, shall we?"

Before the two patricians entered, the barkeep was treated to not just one woman trying to ply her trade, but a pair of them. Before he could formulate a response to the pair of them, a shrill yell was heard from the upper story of the building. The portly barkeep audibly groaned and said "I was going to warn ye... but the missus has sharp ears." As the barkeep spoke, a middle-aged woman stormed out of one of the guest rooms and down the stairs. She got right in the faces of Axley and Cilia, eyeing the two women up before going off on one.

"You tarts leave my husband alone. There'll be none of that shenaniganry in my place of business. We've all the help we need. He tends bar, the boy cooks, the girl entertains with song and flute, and I make sure it all looks shiny and clean. Now be off with you if you were lookin' fer a free meal or bed!" The look on her face was not one of anger, but of annoyance and distrust. Thankfully, it did not last.

Saving the day was Fergus, who overheard the tail-end of the apparent owner's rant toward his female traveling companions. "Now now, there's no need for that. I apologize. My friends here are just a stubborn pair, and used to doing things their own way. I assure you, we're all paying customers. Both for some foodstuffs from the delicious-smelling kitchen as well as some soft beds for the night. We've... been walking for a while." Kicking his toe against the floor at the end of his little speech to bring attention to the dirt caked onto his otherwise very fine boots, Fergus then flashed a few pieces of lesser scrip to show he had money to back his claim.

The woman's demeanor shifted almost immediately to that of a cheerful barmaid. "Well why didn't you lot say you were customers? Have a seat! JARRA! WHAT'S ON THE MENU TONIGHT?!" the woman literally shouted toward the kitchen. A few seconds later, the voice of a young man shouted back: "RABBIT AND POTATO FRITTERS, FRIED ONION BREAD BALLS, OR TURNIPS AND RICE WITH RED SAUCE! ANYTHING ELSE, MA?!" The woman ignored the last bit and returned her attention to the group of strangers in her establishment. "There ye have it. If none of that tickles yer fancy, we can see if we have anything else. But thems what's we got ready for quick eats."

Taken aback by the quick shift, Fergus then turned his gaze to both Axley and Cilia, his eyes giving a silent plea to not do that again. Taking a seat at a table near the bar, Fergus leaned over toward the barkeep and asked the man if he could get five mugs of beer. Rolling his eyes at the little display his wife put on, the chubby man seemed glad to have an excuse to get back to work and began pouring the drinks for Fergus' table. "PLEASE sit down, my friends. Let's get a good meal in us before we cause these fine folks any more trouble." A friendly wink toward the owner put a smile on her face. Being a lawyer was as much knowing how to sway people as it was knowing how to present a case... and Fergus was making use of that talent tonight.

As the barkeep brought the beers to the table, Fergus began to order his meal. "I'll have..."

Cilia's blood started to boil a bit and she put a hand on the axe handle she had hidden in her blouse. She was getting prepared in case the woman attacked her. Fergus' words brought her back to the moment and she headed to the table and with a little huff sat down. The nobles were use to being able to buy what they wanted. She came from a world where people bartered for what they needed. So what she tried was normal for her, to take care of them with what she could do. After a bit of huffing and pouting she said, "Thank you." to Fergus. It was painful as it cost her a bit of pride and independence.

She found the food to be good when it was hot. They were right, fat is filling but she did not stuff herself to the point of getting sick. But she did feel like she was carrying a rock in her belly for a while after they ate. But this was more to the fact that she had not eaten a big meal in a long time. She listened to the music and the conversations around her. Between the heaviness of her stomach and the noise of the crowd, she wanted to dart from the room. She looked at each member of the party and examined their eyes. She tucked a couple rolls and some cheese into her blouse for later that evening.

Snow's appeal was stiffled by Cilia and then Axley. Snow could only shrug. "I think you're both overthinking it." There was a general need for survival but this wasn't quite the same now. They found civilization, people and now they were trying to use them as much as they could. He felt the fire from both of them and he made a sighing face. "I care about you both and I have a bad opinion of it. What do you want from me?" He was a former monk... and he had his own demons to contend with.

He wasn't going to argue with them. He cared about them, they cared about the others. Him included. He smiled. "Well, if you're going to work, I might as well-" He undid the top of his robe. He was going to figure some things out and maybe some smoosing would get him the info of who the leader was and where he was.

Then the bartender and his wife barked at them, and Snow had to admit even he was a little shaken. The woman yelling making him go stiff. Snow lowered his head, "Apologies mame. Apologies."

Snow sat, kind of feeling a little guilty for the lack of faith he had in his friends. He cheered a bit. It was a nice thought.
"I wonder if this is how things would be if such tragedy didn't happen. Arguing about who does what for who. Kind of a family trait now that I think about it." He only requested tea and some fried onion bread balls. He ate them, the crunch was delightful. "Oh wow, thats not bad." He did speak. "When we secure lodging, we should seek out the precept of this town, notify the town what is coming. If someone else would like to come along. Might need another, we don't exactly carry proof."

---

Frustrated with the behavior and apparent ungratefulness of his cohorts, Fergus grumbled to his fellow patrician. "I swear... no matter how nice I try to be, the poor always seem to hate me just because I have the ability to help them. Do you get that much as a Tepet? Or is it just because I hail from the House of the Empress that I'm treated with a bit of extra disdain?" A sigh, then a hand motion for Sasuke to follow him inside. "Let's go in and get bitched at for paying for everything, shall we?"

"Not even kidding you, it happens to me all the damn time. It gets annoying, but you also get used to it." Sasuke was clearly as irritated as his counterpart, but he chose not to make a big deal of it. "We're a pair of patricians in the company of several very high-strung people. Their pride isn't going to accept what they see as handouts. But in my mind, I think they've more than earned it at this point."

Still, he couldn't hide his disappointment at their actions the second they walked up to the bartender. Sasuke felt the sting of jealousy as Axley did what she did. But, if anyone could have seen it, it would only have been Fergus catching the sight of him ever-so-briefly clenching his jaw to keep himself from impulsively saying something nasty about the place. Still, there was a subtle fire in his eyes at the scene. He wasn't tossing around scrip for those he gave a crap about so that everyone could see them choose to debase themselves like this.

But, he was here for business, after all. As much as Sasuke wanted to remove some uncouth hands trying to grope his friends, business demanded restraint. And business needed to be good if they wanted to move on and keep from getting themselves killed by those dead things back there, and avoid starving in the process. Speaking of business, he had a feeling that Axley and Cilia were about to have their asses chewed out by... a burly maid? Nope, it was the bartender's wife letting loose like some sort of beast from the attic. Sasuke didn't have much time to do anything about it, as if he'd stop the fun in the first place.

Saving the day was Fergus, who overheard the tail-end of the apparent owner's rant toward his female traveling companions. "Now now, there's no need for that. I apologize. My friends here are just a stubborn pair, and used to doing things their own way. I assure you, we're all paying customers. Both for some foodstuffs from the delicious-smelling kitchen as well as some soft beds for the night. We've... been walking for a while." Kicking his toe against the floor at the end of his little speech to bring attention to the dirt caked onto his otherwise very fine boots, Fergus then flashed a few pieces of lesser scrip to show he had money to back his claim.

The woman's demeanor shifted almost immediately to that of a cheerful barmaid. "Well why didn't you lot say you were customers? Have a seat! JARRA! WHAT'S ON THE MENU TONIGHT?!" the woman literally shouted toward the kitchen. A few seconds later, the voice of a young man shouted back: "RABBIT AND POTATO FRITTERS, FRIED ONION BREAD BALLS, OR TURNIPS AND RICE WITH RED SAUCE! ANYTHING ELSE, MA?!" The woman ignored the last bit and returned her attention to the group of strangers in her establishment. "There ye have it. If none of that tickles yer fancy, we can see if we have anything else. But thems what's we got ready for quick eats."

Kiss ass. Sasuke really didn't like that woman, but he at least respected her for doing her job efficiently. One moment she goes full banshee mode on everyone, and the next she's kissing the lawyer's muddied boots. As poorly as he thought of the bar security, he at least knew that whatever it was cooking, it smelled pretty damn good.

"I'll have a large helping of those rabbit and potato fritters." Sasuke noticed straightaway that Fergus had chosen a table with the best lighting in the room. Fergus's very fine clothes were painfully conspicuous to everyone in the room. Not what I wanted, but I at least should play it for all it's worth.

Sasuke made equally sure that his sword was just as plain to see as Fergus' clothes. If he wants to warn these people, now would be a good time to do it. In the meantime, Sasuke passed an extra yen over as a tip. Even if he was a borderline savage, Sasuke knew he was a noble and with that came certain hard requirements in the way of etiquette. Tipping was common courtesy, and it wasn't as if he bothered carrying around fractional currency these days, anyway.

On the side, Sasuke made sure that he had easily enough cash to go to the general store and order dried fruit and meat for the road. This region was known to be treacherous, and there was also a chance that they'd go days on end without being able to kill something big enough for all of them to eat. Hopefully, just hopefully, he'd also be able to pick up a few cheap weapons like knives the rest of the group could easily use. He hated that most of the group was so poorly armed, and he was borderline obsessed with being prepared for journeys as hard as this one.

Axley's face didn't show a skip of a beat as her business proposal was shot down the moment the shriek of what could be no less than a banshee was heard overhead, and didn't even bat an eye as she was talked down to by the rather assumptive and, dare she say, hot-blooded woman who seemed to claim ownership of the place. No, what she did instead was quickly stay the hand of her partner in crime. She could sense the animosity coming from the younger woman, and violence would get them absolutely nowhere. She'd had her fair share of rejections before; it was all part of the job, though she rarely had one so...close-minded and shrill. She debated simply packing it in and marching her way over to the other inn across the way, but before plans could formulate in her head, the voice of Fegus was quick to drown out any thoughts.

Seemed she was stuck taking the handout one way or another. To contradict the lawyer at this point would look terrible to the rather judgmental woman who changed tune faster than she did between songs, and as much as she had her pride, she did not have any desire to mess up their time here along with her own. With a weak sigh, Axley put on a winning smile, bowing her head and saying nothing more on the matter, silently hating the moment until she could get out of the limelight. It could be a cruel mistress, it could, but the owner was quick to move on...so she might as well follow suit.

Chasing Fergus to the nearest table, Axley frowned for a moment at the choices. After what little they'd had the last few days, if it wasn't on her dime, might as well go for the food that sounded the most delicious. And that was..."The fried onion balls, please." Axley could remember the last time she'd had fried food; it was a couple of weeks before she'd lost her livelihood the first time. It was a rare treat for her to indulge in 'lowlife food', as her father had called it, but somehow it always was more scrumptious than the dinners he deigned to cook whenever he was home. Always a curious happenstance, especially when she looked back on it.

With the barrister, Snow, and Sasuke likely handling the more urgent parts of business that evening, that left time for Axley to simply try and relax for the night, something she hadn't had the opportunity to do in the last few days. Usually to relax, she'd tune her lute and play a song for herself, but she knew she couldn't risk doing such a thing on the main floor, lest she invoke the ire of the owner yet again. She hadn't played in days now...a rare streak for her to uphold and one she intended on breaking the moment she got the chance. Likely later, once everyone went to sleep, she might play herself a lullaby. But until then, dinner had been served, and all thoughts beyond hunger fled her mind as she took the first delicious bite. When all you'd had but jerky the last several days, this may as well have been prepared by the gods themselves.

"...ing is in order, Master. We are about to activate them now. Agreed, we cannot have another mishap like in the former capital. Yes. I understand. Lieutenant, inform the thaumaturges that they may proceed. Yes, master. We will be heading to the northeastern coast next. No issues to report, no. Understood, master. The war against Pangu Prefecture will no doubt be bloody enough to achieve our goal, especially since the elements of surprise and overwhelming force are on our side. Once the orbs are detonated, their forces and any resistances outside of the Tepet and Cynis legions will be in complete disarray. The western front is reinforced heavily. No survivors will get past them. Understood. Yes, master. We will not fail. I thank you for your concern, but I am fine." Cackling Harlot stepped away from a strange device that looked like a bowl of liquified soulsteel and looked to the sky for a moment before whispering "I have to be. For the sake of this world and everyone left alive in it."


The night was going smoothly. Fergus had eaten a DOUBLE helping of the fritters and split an order of the turnips, rice, and sauce with his fellow survivors. It was now that he said they should talk to the mayor of the town and inform him or her of what brought them here. The sharp-eared tavern owner overheard the lawyer and informed them that "Master Hsu" would likely be at the docks in the morning. It seemed he always liked to inspect the town's livelihood and make sure everyone was taking care of their boats. "If you lot are gonna room here anyway, I'll let him know you mean to have a word with him when I go down to buy fish for the chowder tomorrow morning. Until then, make yerselves comfy."

It wad always amazing what sort of changes a couple dozen yen caused in people. For Fergus, it was not much. For many working class, it was a week's wages. For an unlucky few, it was nearly a month's wages. Regardless, he was glad his resources had come in handy. "Right, then. I'm going to go see a man about some proper weapons. This little thing might dissuade a cutpurse, but it'd be no real help if I ever ran afoul of a brigand or pirate or what have you. I'll be back."

As he turned to leave, Axley grabbed Fergus by the arm and "asked" him to have her sword repaired or reforged or otherwise made combat-ready in some way. The look on her face said "this is not a request..." continuing to keep up appearances of being a friendly and well-mannered man despite his frustration with Axley's previous refusal to accept his charity, Fergus smiled and nodded as he took her weapon. On his way out, Fergus handed the tavern owner's daughter two yen for her lovely flute playing.

A few minutes of walking led Fergus to the smoke of the smithy. Not surprisingly, it was next to the local stables. Horses needed to be properly shoed, farm tools needed repairs, and so on. Fergus headed up to the door just as a muscular young man was coming out. "Oh. Hello sir. Welcome to the Amaranth Stables and Smithy. I'm Gareth. I help my father run the place. Looking for... hmm... weapons and armor, I take it?" Before Fergus could ask how he knew, the young man continued. "You're clearly not a farmer, and you have no horse with you that I can see. Not much other reason to visit other than weapons or armor. So what can I get for you?"

Fergus smiled. This young man was a smart one. He would go far in his trade, so long as he managed to survive the war. "I need a pair of swords, a couple handaxes, a spear or halberd, and a shortbow if you happen to have any. I know you can't make any armor on short notice, though. So we will have to manage without for now."

"I'll have to make one of the swords, but it'll be ready by morning. As for the bow? We have one. It's a lovely piece, hand-crafted by an Exalt from House Cathak before the war. His wife had been a tournament archer, who died in a terrible accident during an event she was participating in. He gifted one of his masterworks to our mayor, who gave it to my father in recognition of his contributions to our town. I can't sell it." Again, the young blacksmith interrupted Fergus just as he was about to speak. "I'm just pulling your leg, sir. It's a nice piece, for certain. But it's just a simple yew bow that I reinforced with a couple strips of metal for extra oomph when you let your arrow fly. Plus it hurts more if you hit a guy with it. And yes, I can indeed sell it."

Laughter was unavoidable. Fergus had to admit, the young man had a great sense of humor. And so they went about working on an acceptable price for the weapons Fergus intended to purchase for the group.

Cilia at a bit of this and that, not wanting to over eat. She stayed away from drinking alcohol rather drinking cider. For the most part Cilia stayed quiet through dinner and kind of kept to herself. She kept to the wall to shield herself from the eyes and hands that might roam. The anger and hurt bubbled inside her. Like a dog, she wanted to snap and growl. She had put herself out there as a woman and was rejected in front of her friends. It was emotionally dangerous ground that she threaded on. Wanting to be noticed, wanting to contribute, and wanting to be safe. If one of the men said something about it, she would probably explode.

So she leaned back on the bench against the wall and closed her eyes, pretending to be drifting off to sleep. She listed to the music and the conversations around her. Men talked about the fishing and the weather. Sailors talked about the sea and home. She did not hear word about the Imperial Ruins or refugees. Fergus would be letting the Mayor know of what was going on. So tonight, she had the luxury and burden of doing nothing.

After Fergus went off to shop, one of the drunks from the counter attempted to come make another attempt at a roll in the hay. As he stood across the table trying to catch her attention, she remained quiet and calm. She knew well enough that starting a fight was not going to help her attitude. So she just did not respond. When he threw a coin at her, she let it hit her. She started to rise knowing that someone else would probably intervene before she could. But in her mood and knowing that drunks were easier to fight, as long as they did not fall on you, and good knee to the genitalia would dramatically reduce his interest in her, she bent over to pick up the coin from the floor to return it to him. Then started to move.

The need for speaking to someone tonight was resolved. It would be until tomorrow. Tomorrow. He hoped they had that long. Snow sighed, he ate his greasy unhealthy food and supped at his tea. He was preparing to settle himself. Stabilize himself. Go back into the calm of his scripture and the texts. Axley had an idea and he was happy to ask her, share the idea. "Well, I do owe you a little play session. Hopefully my pretty face makes up for the lack of practice." He says, rubbing his cheek with a warm grin. All was going to be settled and Snow decided for a moment that he might have deserved a moments peace.

He was going to suggest perhaps they all speak of happier times whilst they have music to reminisce on. They all had hard lives, all dealt with tribulations, but what were their thoughts of gateway. Favorite foods. What would do with a talent of jade and weren't running for their lives. It was pointless and wonderful. Maybe they could sing together whilst the more robust among them got plastered.

But one by one they all went off to conduct their own buisness. Ferguson was kind enough to offer them a night of leisure but then didn't stick around to enjoy it himself. Sasuke seemed interested in the weapons that Ferguson was provisioning. Snow made sure to add. "I need tools more then weapons." He had his walking stick and that served him well enough the past years. He was sure he'd have to defend his opinion.

Then he saw something strike Cilia who had become pouty ever since she was shut down in her attempts. Snow turned his eye and saw that Cilia was going over. He sipped his tea. "They aren't worth your time or your energy. You know what your goals are, as do we. Suffer not the ignorant, though if they are going to be throwing things all night, I might just help you teach them a bit of common decency." He had to deal with thugs before. Talk first, but most of them didnt.

---

It wasn’t long at all before Sasuke was done with his meal. He even had seconds, but those were gone just as fast. As much as he thoroughly enjoyed this meal, daylight was burning and he needed to get on the move before the sun went down. He paid for his meal, and left a little extra something for the people there.

There were several things at the top of his list to get. Throwing knives were at the top, followed by weapons, although he observed that Fergus had those well in hand. He mentally moved immediately to the next very pressing item, that being food for the journey. He knew that jerky, however good it might taste and keep, was going to feel like just a chewing exercise if that was all they had to go on for rations after the first week or two. So, dried fruit was in order.

He had none of those things in hand -- just a day and a half’s worth of rations, and that would never get him (never mind the rest of the group) out of town, never mind to the next. Since Fergus already had weapons and ammunition taken care of, Sasuke rapidly made the assumption that he, too, felt there was little time to waste.

Seems like we leave early in the morning, then. The notion only made too much sense. He had no idea whether that army was still behind them, and spending hours delaying needed purchases might hasten their collective demise at the hands of those same dead pieces of shit that wiped out the Ruins. So, he resolved to get supplies before the sun went down and finally get some much-needed rest.

Axley had finished what ended up being quite the delectable bit of onion and fried fat and was quietly wiping her mouth when she spied Snow and Cilia having a bit of a spat with a rather forward barfly. Probably drunk, she figured...the two of them could certainly handle that problem without Axley having to intervene in a particularly unpleasant way. Best not to make a scene anyways, right? Axley figured after this, she’d go up to whatever room she had for the night and practice a bit on her lute. Fergus had already left with her blade to get it reforged, thank the gods….so that just left calming down everyone to get some rest.

As if on cue, she spotted a familiar body headed towards the door, which brought a singular raised eyebrow to the bard. Sasuke sneaking out to do business once again? Axley sighed. He was always straight-minded, thinking about nothing but his next job, or the security of his team...did he even know how to relax anymore? She doubted that, somehow. With a shake of her head, Axley rose from her seat. “And just where do you think you’re going?” Axley shot rather pointedly at the only person by the exit, making it quite clear she intended to chide him. “I hope you weren’t planning on leaving so soon to nightfall.”

“Just getting supplies before the sun goes down. It will save us time if we intend to leave in the morning.” Sasuke kept his answer short, sweet, and to the point. He had no idea what he did wrong this time, but daylight was burning and he wanted to be back well before the sun said “nope, I’m gone” for the night. “Was there something you need from the general store or something? That’s where I’m headed.”

As expected. Going out for supplies, with evening close at hand. Axley’s stare would practically burn through Sasuke’s head as she folded her arms. “We have to warn the mayor in the morning, remember? We can’t leave until then, and he’s already in the center of town. Might as well swing by there tomorrow, that way we can conserve energy without getting all stressed out. Relaxation’s important to morale, you know…”

Sasuke shrugged. “All the more reason to do that stuff now. If we swing by in the morning, we can warn the mayor and get on the move without any extra effort.” He was so used to angry people by now that her look of intense displeasure might as well be directed at a boulder. “Is there something wrong with that?”

Of course he’d resist. He was so intent on being prepared that he couldn’t even manage to think about a night off. Axley knew he’d shrug her off, but why was she so frustrated with that? “Yes, there are several things wrong with that. First of all, you’re making me very annoyed.” Axley drew closer to the sellsword, the burning look of annoyance still lingering in her eyes. “Second, if you’re going to be all gung-ho until we die, then you’re gonna die of stress before zombies or cannons or anything else.”

Axley snapped her fingers, directing him to turn back at her and meet her gaze. “You wouldn’t let me down like this, now would you? Or are you going to make me break out my lethal weapon?” Axley was going to make this man relax if it was the last thing she did. At the very, VERY least, the two of them needed to catch up, and this could very well be their final opportunity to. “The choice is yours.”

Sasuke couldn’t help but chuckle. All this over taking a break? He had to give it to her. At least she was persistent, and at least she was at least trying to look after other people, in her own way. After all the fighting, marching, and general crap they went through on the way here, a few hours of rest was the least the group deserved.

Once again, Sasuke shrugged. It was clear that he was too dog-tired to argue over something as small as this. “Alright, but we’re going to have to hurry it up in the morning. Mayor or no mayor, we need to get those supplies and get out of town quickly. If we can’t do either, then all of us are in for a rough march.”

That said, he stepped away from the door… but quickly took the opportunity to stare death straight at the unruly drunkard at the bar that he had noticed. Since he was staying put, he might as well do his part since that filth happened to be looking in Sasuke’s general direction. Sure, the monk had it handled and the girl was likely used to it, but it didn’t hurt to take half a second to pitch in. Not only that, he was the only one in the bar who was so obviously armed to the teeth. Besides, if it ended in blows, knocking people like that around was easily one of Sasuke’s favorite parts of the job.

Having done his duty, he looked at Axley as if nothing at all had happened. ”So… now what?”

Finally. Axley was actually mildly disappointed he didn’t fight a little harder. It would have segued better into her plan for relaxing the night. Regardless, the relenting of her friend brought a smile to her face. “Yeesh. You’ve gone soft. Few years ago you’d have fought me just to have to stay in for a dinner.” Sasuke had nearly brought her on his arms deals in the past, and it had taken common sense and her patented death stare to get him to think more wisely. Perhaps he’d grown up a little in their time apart.

“Well, personally, I’ve been getting antsy with all this marching and running without even so much as a break. I personally am going to my room. You are free to do...whatever, I suppose.” Axley cast a side-eye at the drunkard, but he was more than dealt with for the time being. “So I’ll leave that to you, I guess.” Axley spoke leadingly, knowing he’d likely get an idea of where she was going with this. She turned back to the innkeep, taking the key to the room Fergus had already paid for, and turned away from him, heading towards the stairs to the second floor. Before she did, however, she brandished her lute for Sasuke to see before holding it in her grip tenderly, already getting to tuning her precious instrument. To anyone who’d heard her conversation, they might have gone in the completely wrong direction. But Axley had a date with her lute in mind, and certainly would appreciate the company.

Sasuke’s wheels began to turn, and a brief moment passed in which Axley used her charm to subliminally suggest to Sasuke some sort of activity that might keep him from inevitable boredom down below. It was true that he’d grown up a bit, but in Sasuke’s mind it was more a matter of knowing when to pick a fight and when it was best just to let things happen. With the drunkard forcibly tamed, Sasuke had already lost his potential punching bag. His head had already fizzled out after trying to go through what few ideas he could come up with for entertainment before Axley started waving that lute around. Well that’s actually a solid idea. At least I don’t have to deal with anything awkward tonight.

“If you want company, I can lend a hand where I can. I haven’t sung for anything in years, so I could use a bit of practice.” Sasuke paused, and decided to nonchalantly continue. “At least I’ll know whether or not I sound like a pig in heat during the next party before it starts.”

It took him a moment, but finally he was giving the response she wanted. She knew how much he had enjoyed her playing two years ago, and now that she was doing it for a living, she had honed it beyond her skills then...at least in her opinion. She let Sasuke follow behind her, walking down a plain hallway before picking the door on the left the key fit into, opening into...oh. Axley nearly smacked her face in annoyance. “Double room. Shoulda figured. I guess CIlia’ll have a roommate, at least.” Axley took three steps and flopped onto the first bed, sighing happily at the feel of a real mattress, not just some straw-stuffed sack that she had known during her worst moments of poverty. Perhaps the inn was not extravagant, but it was enough.

It was a moment before she got back to her lute, carefully working the kinks out of it and making sure spending time outdoors had not damaged it. “I had a feeling you might need a bit of this if we were going to catch up again. If I remember one thing, it’s that you always listened.” A faint smile ghosted her lips as she plucked a string, hearing it make the exact tune she wished it to. “Perfect.” Axley closed her eyes, her fingers gently tracing along the strings. “Any requests?”

“The only songs I know have to do with fighting, so it’s all up to you. I know pretty much all of them, but nothing else, really.” Sasuke never really kept good company after he and Axley had parted ways. It was always with some mercenary company, a random military unit, or even a noble’s household guard. Just about the only songs he vividly remembered were either ones meant to scare people off the field or get the troops ready for battle during a tense night of waiting for a terrible dawn to break. Hopefully, it won’t be either one for us.

No request? Axley gave Sasuke a curious eye for a moment, wondering just what he was thinking in that moment. Nothing had stood out to him before, so perhaps she’d have to find that song he had forgotten somewhere. Axley thought to herself a moment, thin fingers tapping the varnished wood gently before she nodded. “Okay, I think I have one I can give you.” Axley closed her eyes as she always did; it truly helped her feel the flow of the music and the tone of her voice if she could shut out everything around her.

Her song was an old favorite of hers, one she played most during the late evenings at the bar when things would wind down...or whenever she felt down late at night. Her fingers gently played across the strings, working out the gentle tune of an old lullaby her mother used to sing her back before she had been forced to learn to be a noble’s wife. A simple, yet hypnotic song, simple to play yet always a joy to listen to, she liked to suck others into the tiny world she seemed to make for herself whenever she played her music. The words were of her own invention-the lullaby itself had been childish, so Axley had written her own lyrics, detailing the end of an era, the final warrior standing over his new kingdom and the wonders he knew he’d bring to those standing before him in awe. A very soft, yet reassuring song that Axley used to calm a crowd down for the night. She didn’t even know how he was reacting; she had lost herself in her world, only hoping he had joined her in it.

There wasn't much in this world that could make Sasuke's mind shut up for once. This was one of those precious few things. Sasuke had fought for years, for people and causes he didn't give two shits about. For him, it was always the next fight for survival. For the first time in two very long years, something vaguely resembling hope entered his life. At the very least, keeping it alive somehow seemed like a worthy crusade.

Before he knew it, he had joined in. He really did sound like a pig in heat at first; it had been that long since he sang a proper song. But, he found his voice and actually sounded decent - well, in his humble opinion at least. The song was simple enough, and he sang along where he could. It was in this moment that Sasuke very briefly forgot about this painful, miserable world. It was the only beautiful moment he had witnessed during the past two years. For once in his life, Sasuke was glad that he had chosen the path of a warrior. Now, he could protect the very few beautiful things that still existed in this wretched world. And for now, that was good enough for him.

Axley’s world had a welcome intruder-granted, a somewhat off-key intruder-but one she gladly embraced nonetheless. Occasionally she would get a drunken voice to join her own in song, but this was the voice of an old friend, whether she’d deceived him or not. Once the song had come to an end, Axley kept her eyes closed a moment longer, simply wanting the world she’d created to be the one she’d opened her eyes to. One free of the strife, worry, and apocalypse that plagued them. One where she was free to simply pursue her desires, her friends by her side. Alas, it was not to be so when she returned to reality, but at least one smiling face was still there.

“And here I thought you forgot all but the war songs, you dirty liar.” Axley playfully punched her friend on the shoulder, sighing. “This used to be the song my mother sang to put me to sleep, though with obviously much different lyrics. It’s one of the few pieces of home I still have, besides my sword and my lute. So it feels special to sing that every now and again. If I’m all that’s left of the Crawfords, maybe I can find some way to make my name right again. End of the world’s on us, after all...maybe they’ll forget the shithole my life was.” Axley laughed softly, but sighed weakly at the end. She suddenly felt very vulnerable. She drew closer to Sasuke, using the larger man’s shoulder to lean on softly. “I know I’m the least capable of fighting of us all.” She spoke gently, her eyes fixed on the floor as she tried to keep herself from worrying too much. “I worry I won’t be of much use if hell decides to catch up to us again. And Fergus has the connections at Lord’s Crossing…” It was clear Axley questioned her role in the group. Even if she was strong...it wasn’t in the right ways for their journey.

When she suddenly leaned on him, he blushed a little, but took it in stride. She was a trusted friend, after all. With that said though, Sasuke knew she was genuinely selfless in saying this. He felt compelled to say something… He just struggled to find something [i]good[/]. Comforting people wasn't exactly his strong suit, after all.

"In all my years of fighting, I've found the toughest wars aren't won with strength of arms." Sasuke gave her one of the most certain looks he'd had in years. "What matters is your strength of heart. As long as we stick together, they'll never beat us."

"You've already managed to do the impossible by making it this far. I'd take you over a hundred swords any day of the week." Sasuke knew it was a pretty stupid line to say, but he knew it was the truth. She survived all the forces of hell could throw her way. He never met a hardened merc or even any Tepet with half that strength of will.

"Besides, if I've learned nothing else, it's pointless to fight you. The same goes for those guys as well." In a way, Sasuke was right. Even if it was a stupid joke meant to set her at ease, he genuinely felt that she was far more valuable than she gave herself credit for. It was just that he didn't know how to get that message across.

Even though Axley knew what he said was a load of bung, Axley couldn’t help but smile a little. “Then you’ll have to show me how not to dislocate my arm swinging one of those swords. I’m not using my lute as a weapon.” If she wasn’t getting it reforged into something usable, she likely wouldn’t have been using her ceremonial blade, either. Only two tangible relics remained from her old life, both precious in different ways. Still...she could tell he was trying, and that was comfort in and of itself. He wasn’t usually a particularly comforting man, she knew that much. The real world was cruel, he’d say, and bluntness was the only way people learned...yet to her, he’d lie to her face to get a smile.

It still worked.

“Well, fighting Cilia would at least get the girl all fired up.” Axley smirked and shook her head. “She’d be your type too, you know. She’s a fighter just like you. Might need to start picking your prize trophy wife before the apocalypse comes and swallows them all up.” Axley was goading him now and enjoying it; romance was never a topic either of them brought up between each other, and one Axley used to avoid considering how they had been introduced. But with the world beneath them suddenly seeming far away, it felt right to poke a little fun his way.

What? Sasuke knew he was as smart as a sack of bricks when it came to romance, and he knew something was coming. But, Axley was always a step ahead of him on that front, after all. It only made sense that this one still hit him out of the blue. A reddened face bore the marks of Axley's victory, and there was no denying that she won that round.

Sasuke had to say something to make a comeback, and say it fast. With a playful nudge, he smirked back. "That's if you haven't gotten to her first." It was life's little moments that made it bearable. He wanted this to last forever, but the back of his mind was always gnawing at him like a cancer to press forward. He only dreamed of the day when he'd no longer worry about that anymore.

Axley couldn’t help but scoff at the sellsword’s comeback. “Oh, you’d like it if I just started making out with the redhead, wouldn’t you.” Axley left her position nestled on his shoulder to give him a light shove. “Dirty pervert.” Axley stifled a giggle before sighing contentedly, leaning back in for a bit of support. For such a well-built man, his shoulder was more comfortable than it had any right to be. She shook her head, thinking about the future...if there was one. What would she even accomplish in what was left in the world? Would she even have a husband? Or would she simply continue being a bard in some city somewhere? And what kind of aspirations were those?

“We’re going to be alright, right?” Axley spoke again, still worried about what was to come. The dark legion had destroyed all of the Imperial Rubble in mere hours. She could only imagine what they’d do to the rest of the area, especially once humanity began putting up resistance. They had to inform the highest-up about this if they were to stand even a chance...no doubt at some point they would be hunted down if any word got out on their escape.

Sasuke felt her warmth leaning in on him, and barely resisted the temptation to give in and just let it happen. "We will. We just have to be smart about it, that's all. I don't think it will be easy, but it's not impossible. Just know that whatever happens, I've got your back. That's a promise."

After his dealings with the blacksmith's son, Fergus headed back to the Squeaky Wheel. It was starting to get dark, and he was finally feeling the exhaustion of walking for so long on minimal rest. On his way back, he bought up a handful of sugar snacks from one of the village kids selling them outside the bakery. "This should help lift everyone's spirits. Thank you, young lady." said Fergus as he handed her two yen for the treats. It was a small gesture, but sometimes a small act had a big impact.

Heading inside the Squeaky Wheel, Fergus was greeted by the owner. Giving her a handshake and thanking her, Fergus went upstairs and knocked on each of his companions doors. If the knock was answered, Fergus smiled and handed over a couple of candies. If it wasn't, then that meant more candies for later. And with all that settled, he decided it was time to catch up on sleep. There were still some locals downstairs eating and drinking and having fun, but not him. Mere moments after he hit the bed, Fergus was asleep.



Fergus was woken up by a heavy knocking on his door. The owner was here to inform him that the blacksmith's son was here to deliver his order. "Yozi's take me, that was fast. I didn't expect things to be done until this afternoon at least." Upon heading downstairs, Fergus greeted Gareth and was astounded by the quality of the weapons he had bought. When told they were done already, Fergus expected them to be functional but low-quality... but they were each of very fine make. "How did you m-" Gareth chuckled, causing the patrician to pause. "My pops and I run a smithy in a trading town on a river. Everything you asked for was already made ahead of time. The only thing that needed any actual work was this." At that point, Gareth handed over Axley's sword. The blade was a bit thicker and the grip had been slightly extended to aid in balancing the weapon, but all of the expensive adornments had been preserved.

The breakfast menu at the Squeaky Wheel was as simple and hearty as the dinner menu the night before. The fried onion bread balls were still available, as well as a ham steak with two eggs and corn bread, and lastly a bowl of oat gruel with fresh strawberries and sugar syrup. Fergus ordered the ham, eggs, and cornbread. It was a complete meal, and would keep him satiated for quite a while. He made conversation with a couple of townsfolk who were curious why he was there, but did not disclose the attacks on the ruins. Causing a panic would only complicate matters. It was better to explain things to this "Master Hsu", who was apparently an authority figure in the town. As a local authority, he would be better equipped to explain things to the people he represented.



The barkeep had gone into the kitchen to help his son get ready for the lunch customers, the owner was upstairs cleaning, and Fergus was picking at an order of the onion bread balls he had bought to share with one of the locals. It was at this point that the daughter of the owner and barkeep returned to the Squeaky Wheel. "Hey, mom! Master Hsu is here! Wasn't there some folks here that needed to talk to him?!" To this, Fergus smiled and told the local that they could have the rest. "I'm one of those folks, dear. Thanks for letting us know he's here." And so it was that Fergus headed out to meet this "Master Hsu" person. Hopefully he could do something to help these folks stay calm in the face of open war with another Deathlord. It was a faint hope, but Fergus was trying to think positively.

After dinner Cilia went up to her room. The room was small but warm with a wood fire in the corner. She could hear the crowd from downstairs whooping and hollering, drinking and telling stories. It was the sound of life. The windows had simple drapes that could be pulled. She had requested hot water for a bath and planned to soak in the tub till she was clean. Two candles sat on a table in holders lit with a third on the table. The glow of the candles light was the color of honey that had been warmed and flickered as it danced in a little draft caused by the heat of the fire. Hanging on a hook above the fire was a large pot with water warming.

Fergus knocked on the door offering her candy which she delighted in receiving. She put one piece of the candy into her mouth after she thanked him. Trying not spit on him, excitedly told him about the fact that the room had a bed and they brought a tub with hot water and real soaps that smelled like flowers. The smell of which also scented the room.

After Fergus left, Cilia enjoyed the bath till it was cool. She soaked in the tub for almost an hour. Then she washed her clothing and hung it to dry by the heat of the fire.

Then like a princess, she climbed into the bed with its down comforters and pillows. The heaviness weighted her down, like her dog had when the cuddled in. Sleep came upon her and she was so tired from the running and the tub that she did not dream that night.

---

In the morning she woke to a light tap on the door then a key turned in the lock. It was the maid coming to empty the tub. She turned Cilia’s clothing so that the other side would be completely dry. She offered to bring her breakfast, figuring that Cilia only had a single set of clothes. This also delighted Cilia and she snuggled back down into the warmth of the bed as the maid poured the dirty wash water from the tub out the window. The fire was relit and oak logs stacked to burn.

Breakfast was a feast for a girl that was use to savaging for food. Ham, eggs, bread, and other items were on a tray. Cilia ate carefully in the bed not wanting to spill anything or waste it and then she nodded back off to sleep.

---

She finally woke again and headed down to the main room, dressed with her hair freshly braided and smelling of rose pedals. She sat in a corner talking with a young lady doing embroidery as she waited. She greeted her friends and headed out with them to meet they mayor. Hoping that it would do some good.

Not much happened that night. Merely a time to rest. A time to reflect. A time to pray. Even at the ends of the world, the monk still felt he had to pray. There still had to be something worth giving thanks. Praying towards. He knew the gods got stronger through prayer, and there weren't many left who prayed. His faith was but a drop in a dry sea, but a mountain can be built by pebbles. He accepted Fergus' candles and he big his companions a good night. He slept unsoundly, but he slept.

---

The next morning, he was happy with his oat gruel, strawberries, his tea. The simple things. He woke up with the pain at his shoulder and his hip. Its been bothering him every day, particularly when he gets up at dawn. He rubs his shoulder, rotates it to work the kinks out before getting his hair tied in a pin. He took advantage of the water bath, merely dumping the water on his head and then giving himself the merest sponge bath to himself merely to feel fresh. When he was ready he came down stairs and settled in, strumming his Sanxian to pass the time until his companions awoke.

Fergus was first, followed later by Cillia. Regardless, he'd gave each a proper. "Good morning. Hope you slept as well as I did. Been forever since I dreamed of music like that." He lied, but he wanted to encourage them.

Master Hsu was apparently there and when it was called, the monk stood. "The name sounds familiar..." Possibly another immaculate from back in the day, possibly. He got up following Fergus out. "I just hope we have enough time." He implored before stepping out with the patrician out into the street to meet the Master.

---

Sasuke was already up well before dawn. He didn't know whether it was the company or the strangely comfortable bed, or that filling meal, but last night he had gotten his best sleep in years. Still, he woke up at his usual time, which was almost always just a few minutes before daybreak. By the looks of things, he was up first.

His breakfast was simple, but just as good as the night before. Some dried fruit and ham from their pantry, some eggs, and a bowl of oat gruel with more fruit to sweeten it up was all that was available that early in the morning. He made sure to eat plenty; lunch was certainly going to be later than usual, and Sasuke suspected that this would be an extremely busy day.

At precisely the crack of dawn, Sasuke was out of the building and headed directly towards the general store.



Sasuke's shopping was effectively complete. He had gotten as much food as he could reasonably carry, along with a simple bow for the group, complete with a simple, very compact quiver of about a dozen arrows with a sack full of arrowheads for future use. He was as good as shit with a bow, but he knew he could at least use it in a pinch at close range... Or, he could simply give it to someone in the group who actually knew how to wield it well. In either case, it was better than a normal hunting bow, with some good stopping power but not too much tension for the group to be able to use it quickly and efficiently. Sasuke had a feeling the group would appreciate the extra accessory soon enough.

He missed Fergus at the blacksmith, but still took the time to his weapons sharpened and a couple of good throwing knives added to his inventory. His strange knife with its oversize spear-friendly pommel was also refitted with a longer, sharper blade for close combat, but this cost a pretty penny. Regrettably, the smith lacked enough remaining quality steel on hand to make combat-grade armor in stock outside of easily-made hardened leather chestplates. So, Sasuke had to content himself with fixing and reinforcing his battered chestplate, which had taken a rough beating during his fight with that Abyssal exalt. There was always a chance she could re-emerge, and it always paid to have a stronger piece of armor to last a few more precious seconds against that freak of nature.

By the time it was all said and done, Sasuke was down by a whole quian of scrip, but it hardly mattered: he had bought enough supplies for the group to make it through the next couple weeks without having to make a kill or forage for food, and he was confident he had bought enough arms to complement the weapons Fergus had gotten the others (whatever those were). Fergus was a smart man, after all, and Sasuke bet on the fact that the lawyer had enough time, money, and good sense to adequately supply the others with the most needed materials, out of what the local smith had on short notice.

Sasuke was back at the Inn precisely in time to see Fergus and the others stepping out to meet with the Master Hsu person that the innkeepers had mentioned the night before. Steeling himself for a likely very uncomfortable confrontation, he swiftly joined the others to regroup and distribute their freshly-bought rations of jerky and dried fruit before going out to meet their man of the hour.

The rest of the evening for Axley had gone relatively uneventfully. Seeing that Cilia had chosen her own room, Axley ended up letting Sasuke sleep in the other bed, deciding to simply sleep in her mangy bard's outfit caked with dirt, blood, and grime...why again? As Axley fought to sleep, she had to combat such thoughts of idiocy before she finally drifted off, allowing the exhaustion from the past several days and the absolute fluffy splendor of the soft bed to carry her into a deep, dreamless slumber, the first real sleep she'd had since the cataclysm struck the Imperial Rubble. She was out well before Fergus returned to give candies; she was wholly unaware of his kind gesture, relegated instead to trying to be as well-rested as possible to tackle what was still quite some journeying left to come.

She awoke to an empty room. No doubt Sasuke had woken at the crack of dawn and left to do the shopping she had denied him the evening prior. That worked out well for her, as she was finally able to shed her dirty clothing and call down to the inn's staff to request some bathing water. If she was going to be meeting the mayor, she wasn't going to look like she'd been dragged through a muddy trench to do it. Her morning was spent soaking her dirty feeling away, letting a bar of goat fat soap scrub away all the uncleanliness she could find. She took a relatively quick bath, doing what she could to soak her clothes and wash them while the water was still hot. The morning was relatively cool and breezy, so Axley took to hanging her wear outside the window, allowing the gentle wind to dry her clothes while she flopped back into bed, enjoying the downy goodness of the comforter for what little remaining time she could. She doubted she would be seeing such luxury again soon.

With clothes dry and a full night's rest, Axley donned her bard's gear once again and headed downstairs, casting a quick glance to the owner's husband and ordering herself a simple ham steak, hold the eggs and double the cornbread. Just the way she liked it back at the taverns she had populated doing her job. She was in the middle of happily digging into her final hearty meal of her stay when Fergus had presented her with her ceremonial blade, newly reforged at the ironsmith's and returned before she'd come downstairs. The changes were subtle, but when Axley gripped the hilt of the blade it no longer felt unbalanced and wobbly; it had been reworked on the fly into something more than usable in combat...while retaining her family's crest and intricate design. It was not a master's work...but certainly well on the rise to mastership. She'd have tipped the one responsible if she had the coin spare.

With little else to do but wait, Axley finished her breakfast and made small talk with the owner's daughter. Turns out she was multitalented in the musical arts; while she mostly entertained with the flute, she had been practicing the fiddle as well and was near ready for a public performance. Axley gave her what advice she could, especially in the manner of playing to the crowd and other helpful advice to help her stand out in the mind's eye of the average inngoer. Making an impression was just as important as the music one played, after all. She was unfortunately forced to cut her little lesson short, however, as it seemed one 'Master Hsu' had decided to come to them as the leader of the village. Axley bade the young girl farewell before joining the others, silently keeping towards the back of their small group. Diplomacy wasn't exactly her forte. Best to let the lawyer and mercenary handle this conversation.

[RP ON TEMPORARY HIATUS. WILL UPDATE AT LATER DATE. STAFF, DO NOT ARCHIVE]