"Do you have the balls to be a part of my squad punk!? You look like you just crawled your way out of the back alley! What do you got to offer huh!?" Rin Matsunaga questioned the strange man who had decided to fall in line with her team as Cole sighed, and looked over to the Shaman. "Not to pry but if you don't want to get insulted on a daily basis I'd probably pick a better squad." Cole suggested to him as Rin glared daggers at him. "Oh look at you, you fucking Gajin punk ass! Didn't expect you to try, and poach someone from me!" Rin said as a blonde haired bard who had been with the travelers walked over to Rin, and bowed. "I like this one's fiery spirit! Of course I'll be glad to join the bow hero!" The blonde haired handsome bard smiled as he watch Rin look down at him with disgust. "Calm yourself now Bow Hero. You can reject someone if you wish but you don't need to insult them."

An did nothing but chuckled at the fiery, aggressive spirit of the one with the Bow. Such a spirit from such a young person. It was good to know that the summoned ones were of fighting spirit. Stroking his facial hair slowly, An waited for Rin to finish speaking. Once she had finally stopped speaking, he prepared to retort.
"From the back alley, you say? But I have seen more than just the back alley of a sitting settlement. You tell me, young life, have you roamed the forests? Have you seen the mutters of Mother's wrath roam her bones?"
The shaman raised his staff dramatically.
"Tell me, one with the Bow, what Odyssey have you put yourself in?"

At first, Cleo was glad to see that the Shield Hero had a mind of his own, and a spine to use when standing up to the boy king. But alas! Fortune seemed to have frowned upon her as the Shield Hero stormed out of the room. While she can understand the feeling of not wanting to be a slave, she couldn't help but feel...a little frustrated. Of course, she may look like a child, but did he not know that appearances can be deceiving?

After watching the shield hero leave, she turned her attention back to the King. When he asked if she was from the church, she simply nodded. She didn't like the idea of a Church that neglected any one of the heroes. It reeked of foul play to her. She certainly wasn't from the church, but she wasn't going to cause any more fuss than what was already caused today.

After he made his suggestion, she found that it was best to follow that suggestion. She curtsied in response and politely answered, "Yes, Your Grace," She then walked over to Cole and she speaks to him, "I would like to offer my assistance to you, Sword Hero. At least until the Shield Hero comes to his senses, or a new one is summoned,"

"Right let's hope its sooner than later Miss." Cole said to the former volunteer to the shield hero, "Name's Cole by the way." he told her as he turned his attention back to the teen king as his assistant cleared his voice to ask for silence once more.

"Very well it looks like the adventurers have chosen their new commanders. Heroes from another world you will now each receive six hundred silver. Spend it wisely. You will be in charge of keeping your parties well fed, and in shape. You are the leaders of the movement against the waves. You are not alone. Procure all necessary equipment, and set forth on your new journey. You are dismissed." King Sanson said quickly as he quickly waved his hand and the door re-opened to allow all the heroes to leave. The Bow Hero Rin Matsunaga smiled at the golden haired boy whom had lined up behind her, and told him both to move their ass to the nearest inn. She moved so fast she more or less left the shaman man behind without a second thought. Gotta find somewhere to eat first off, and then whatever else.

Cole looked at the sword in his hand once more, and then at the two behind him. He hadn't said anything to the fox boy, a strange thing in this land no doubt but he'd ask questions later, and the mage girl. He looked at the clothes on his back, and sighed. "First off...we should look for somewhere to rest, maybe get some armor." Cole suggested to everyone. "Outside of that we may need to work on learning how to use our weapons properly. I've never wielded a sword in my life." before anyone could really respond Marcino whistled shrilly across the court annoying the young king greatly. "Alright you vagabonds I'll be at the Dragon Traveler's Inn on the south end of town. If you need me you can find me there, if there are any pressing matters ask'em right now to me." Marcino said as Cole quickly took him up on his offer, "Do you have any suggestions on where to find armor, and medical supplies sir?" Cole requested as Marcino scratched his head, and thought it over briefly. "The Armored Way, and the Grand Duchess Apothecary seem like the places to look kid." Marcino responded deftly as he sat down on the floor next to a pillar on the far corner of the room. Cole nodded, and then turned towards his team. "You ready?"

Flin frowned as the Shield Hero stormed out. He was the only one who seemed particularly interesting and wise to him. But him leaving like this, told him otherwise. It was foolish to anger the king, and his statement about cutting off the Shield Hero's fundings made it all the more apparent. Flin certainly did not want to get on the king's bad side. He'd keep this moment as a strong reminder, in the back of his mind. He looked into Auriel's eyes as she spoke, easily seeing her brim with happyness. Apparently he'd left a good impression on her. He didn't expect it, but he was glad that he did. It made him feel less nervous.

"You can just call me Flin. My full name is Flin Meeru." He said with a smile. As the king opened the doors and soldiers walked over to hand each of them a bag of gold, he snatched it out of one of the soldier's hands and sighed in relief. Finally, he was free to do as he pleased. At least for the time being. "We should look for a place to stay, first." He spoke to Auriel. He listened to Cole's words, and what he said made sense. But he wasn't about to let this guy guide his hand. Who the hell did he think he was? "Right. Duly noted." He said to Cole, with some spite in his voice. He listened to the locations that Marcino mentioned. "Alright. Let's go, Auriel!" He said, in a kinder tone. He left the building in a hasty pace, but made sure that Auriel was able to keep up. He did not feel comfortable being around so many people.

"Do you know of a good place where we could stay?" He asked Auriel, as he examined his spear more closely in his hand.

An went after the Bow Hero in hopes of tiring her out. He chased her tail as much as he could, but at last, he was lost in the crowd of people. There was no sign of the fiery hero, and the shaman soon gave up. He had to admit, that one had some good stealth skills. That he could approve. And she was fast for her size too. Alone, the man turned around and backtracked the way he came from.
Soon enough, he saw familiar faces walking down the streets. The winged one who had a confidence problem before, and the other hero with a different weapon as well. It was better together than alone, wasn't it? He approached the group through the crowd(which seemed very enthusiastic about making way for him). When he was close enough, he spread his arms wide and made his presence known to the hero and his follower. The bear skull clattered.
"Greetings, fellow adventurers! I seek to join you in your grand quest!"
Then he scratched his cheek.
"...actually I lost myself chasing the one with the Bow."

@Whoami@Jensoman

----Time Skip Next Day roughly 2:00----

The next day was a quick one as the groups were banding together to try, and form a solid cohesive unit for the troubles to come Rin Matsunaga the Bow Hero has vanished. The Tiger's eye had confirmed that she had left the city to go hunt monsters after buying armor and supplies. After learning she could get stronger by killing beasts in the wild he had figured she wanted to go get as much experience as possible. She had been followed by the bard. However something much more dire was announced by King Sanson himself as he gathered the remains in the hallway.

"I should've known better than to leave the summoning in the hands of a novice. And now I waste even more time having to bring you all back into my halls when you could be out bettering yourselves. Forgive me Spear, and Sword. I am only doing what I can with what is alloted to me. A scout found the Shield, pitiful as he was, had gotten into an altercation with a group of thugs in the back alley. His legs failed him, and not even the infamously one note shield was enough to save him...is what I would say if it turns out that shield wasn't his. The shield on his arm was more of a shadow according to my own scouts. A fake. Imperfect from its summoning. I guess I should've known why else would the shield support a man who can't even walk on his own?" grumbled the King as he tapped his chair repeatedly and clutched his head. "So I had the group re-do the summoning ritual...and they produced a result...I hope he's better than the fake." King Sanson said as he had the guards bring in the shield hero. Sword the church girl where is she? "The church called her back to protect the chapel in case of a monster attack. She won't be able to join our cause." commented Cole as the King sighed, and gripped his chair. "Nothing is ever simple is it? Fine then I will give you, and the shield additional gold." commented Sanson as he waved his Hand of the King to do his job and procure the funds.

As Cole turned around to see the Shield Hero Enter he waved him over, "Hey buddy you alright?" Cole questioned to the new arrival. Cole had now been decked out in some simple iron armor with some leg braces, and a other protective gear. He had thankfully been able to procure his own supplies when he, and the girl did their rounds around the city last night before he went to bed, and she left. He never got her name. "Don't worry I already gave him all the information I gave you he should be up to par with all of you."

Fer was suddenly enveloped in a bright flash. He closed his eyes against the blinding light on instinct and covered them with his left hand. There was a burning sensation on the same site that had been wounded by a knife not seven days before. He gritted teeth but there was no pain. The warmth had been more startling than anything.

Slowly he felt the warmth decrease. He opened one eye experimentally and noticed that though he could still see spots, his eyes were regaining their vision. He opened the other eye and his vision soon recognized he was in a dimly lit room with what looked like stone walls. A slight glow at his feet caught his attention and he managed to catch the receded light of some sort of intricately carved circle. Though his eyes had returned to normal, there was still a warm feeling in his left forearm. Instinctively he retracted it to his chest and placed his right hand upon it. Instead of skin, the right palm felt metal.

He raised his forearm to his face in alarm, almost slamming into his nose. His eyes hurriedly inspected the scene before him. There was something that appeared to be some sort of ornate jewelry but he would later come to know it was a bracer that extended from behind his wrist bone to 4 inches before the bend of the elbow. There seemed to also be a sort of jewel but the color seemed to change and swirled as if there was some sort of smoke inside it.

“Welcome Shield Hero” a voice spoke and brought Fer out of his musings and inspections. People seemed to materialize from the shadows robed in white. He introduced himself as Master Eric. Fer cautiously took in he was surrounded but felt no ill will towards him. Still he remained on the alert, every now and then taken glances behind and to his sides making sure nobody was advancing for a surprise attack.
“Where am I?” He had spoken in Spanish but unbeknownst to him, his Shield was translating. “I am sure you have many questions. Please come with me and I will explain it all” Fer cautiously followed the man and noticed the other monks(?) filed behind them at a respectful distance.

As he was led past an open courtyard, he noticed that it was dark but the hue in the sky resembled the early pre-dawn hours he had spent on lookout. Fer followed the robed man only because he wanted to collect more intel on where he was and how he came to be here. The buildings and people seemed nothing like the humble huts near the train station or the tan leathery inhabitants of the mountains. Even the lofty homes of the rich in his country could not compare to the architecture he saw as he traversed a walled compound. His mind fought with the idea that this could be a castle from one of the stories his little brother was so found of. But he decided to concentrate on the here and now and leave the wondering for later.

Finally they arrived at a wooden door which opened into a decent sized room with a bed and room enough for a table and two chairs. There were no windows and judging from the distance traveled, they must be near the center of the complex. Fer continued to look around unsure of what to make of his situation. The monk sighed in understanding and he motioned for the young man to sit on one of the chairs. “Please sit Shield Hero. I know this is too much to take in but I shall attempt to explain as much as I can.” Fer made his way to the chair but did not relax his guard in the least. The monk offered him a smile and launched into his tale to a captivated Fer. When he was done he waited for the young man to ask any questions but Fer had too much to mull over without adding to the mix.

The monk excused himself and left the young man still sitting on the chair. His mind racing and trying to grasp what he had just been told. He could not be dreaming as his mind was not capable of coming up with the setting and premise which had been presented to him. His little brother would have been the one who had read extensively.

He could not be dead for even though he had not been religious, the few times they had gone to mass portrayed a heaven and hell much different than the modestly fancy room he now sat in. Having no other explanation for his current situation, he had to work on the premise that what he had been told was true. That on his forearm now rested some sort of magical shield and he was one of four people who had to somehow help the people of this place against monsters, based on the descriptions.

He was still deep in thought caressing the bracer in his left arm when he heard a few knocks at the door. He blinked his eyes and wondered how much time had already passed. He made his way to the door and opened it. An armored clad soldier with an open face helmet stood respectfully a few paces away. “My apologies Shield Hero, but you are summoned by the King.”
The young man followed the soldier through the halls. Once they came to the courtyard again he noticed it must be early morning based on the shadows. He was silent, only nodding as a few people greeted him in a deferring tone he was not used to. Soon they arrived at the tall doors that led into the throne room.

The doors parted and Fer saw before him a throne where a young looking man sat and two equally looking men stood near it looking in his direction as he entered. This made him feel a little self conscious due to how appropriate the others seemed to dress and his own clothes made him stand out. He was wearing a white T-shirt that boasted a young Michael Jackson but that Fer had no idea who it was. His jeans were also worn and faded.

One of the young men at the front motioned for him and asked him “Hey buddy you alright?” Fer nodded his head. Even if he was not, how could he possibly communicate that everything around him was not ok. So he kept his mouth shut and moved forward. He was unsure what to do since he had never been before a King so he awkwardly did a hand motion and bowed as he had seen someone do in a movie before. His voice was tight and unsure as he spoke “Good morning, Mr. King. I am Fernando Gutierrez….uh…I was told I’m here to help….after..can I go home?”
His eyes tried not to meet the King’s it was not that he was afraid but he had always been taken advantage of and everyone in leadership had left a distrust in his heart. However, he knew the fastest way home had to be to finish whatever duty he had here and perhaps they would send him home.

Flin shrugged as the shaman came after them. He didn't exactly like being followed simply because someone else wasn't available, but he wasn't about to order him to leave. As long as he didn't do anything that annoyed him, anyway. "Whatever, just stick with us then." Flin simply replied, advancing further to the cathedral as he was guided by the angel before him. He still had plenty of questions for Auriel, but this whole experience had tired him out somewhat. He'd been treated kindly by Auriel's mother and Auriel, and given an excellent meal. The delicious food replenished his strength somewhat. Thanks to them, he'd felt more at home within this new world. He was given a room to stay in, and fell asleep peacefully.

-------------------------

Flin hopped out of his bed the next day, eager to get started. He was given another great meal, and finished his plate. He walked through the cathedral afterwards, looking for Auriel. They'd bought some basic armour for himself yesterday after Auriel showed him around the cathedral, but never got around to actual training. But before he could do as he intended, soldiers asked him to head for the castle.

Now he was within the throne room again, to meet the new Shield Hero. He didn't seem to want to be here, much as Flin felt when he first came here. Flin felt the same, but he didn't feel as frightened and confused as he was at first. "Hey, I'm Flin Meeru. The Spear hero." He calmly said to Fernando.

"My name is King Vincent Shield Hero...and I told them to inform you of all the current information did I not? Blasted fools...no you can't go home as much as I detest the fact that I must pluck you three from different worlds you won't be able to go back until you cleared the waves." Vincent said groaning as he rubbed his ears slinking back into his throne as if the mere notion of the incompetence of his people made him sick. "King's right buddy. I'm sorry but we're going to need to work together to help these people out. If we don't we're going to die, and then they are. I may not look like it but I'm from a world like yours." commented Cole as he turned to the spear hero. "Speaking of which I'm curious. Who's the president of the united states in your world spear hero?" questioned Cole as he wondered what exactly the summoning meant. He had a suspicion the fellow heroes may not actually be from the same world as him. He figured this was a good way of knowing considering how tumultuous the country's systems are.

The young Shield Hero nodded towards the one holding the Spear just as he had to the Sword when he had been addressed. He had not tried to ignore him but his question had been more pressing.

Fer listened to the King’s assurances and nodded his understanding of the situation. He took a deep breath as his path was now clear before him. The prospect of going home gave him a resolution that would be one tracked and as solid as stone. His voice was clearer and his face lifted to meet the young King.

“I understand King Vincent” His voice carried without fear or doubt. “Your people did tell me about having to help but did not know for sure if I would be able to return. I will do everything I can to help you but I ask with all respect and hope that once my time is over if you can help be return. I must return” The last part was said in a lower tone. His mind suddenly was flooded with memories of his sister. He had failed to protect his younger brother and he did not want to let his sister down.

The jewel on his left hand glowed and swirled with colors for any that were paying attention to see. The young Shield Hero’s recollections were interrupted by the one holding the sword. Fer turned towards the young man. His mention of being from a world like his struck his curiosity. Why had he said a world LIKE his? The brows on Fer furrowed into concern. He had thought that he was the only one. If he was not, he would have believed that all would have been summoned from the same place.

He lifted his eyes towards the ceiling as he tried to remember the name of the person that had been asked of him. He had very little knowledge of items out of his immediate mountain cluster of rebels but once or twice he had been sent as a spy and messenger to the cities that had been occupied by American troops which were helping the rebels against the Socialist Government. His voice was unsure as he replied “Regen? Reguan? I am sorry I don’t know how to say it.”

Then he replied on a more sure tone equally meeting each of the two men. “I do not know how I am here but I will help. This seems like a dream but I don’t think it is. I will do my best to help because I have to return to where I am from. I will need help to understand how to help because I only know very little of places like this from movies or pictures.” He extended a hand in the customary gesture of greeting first to the Spear and he would shift it to the Sword once and if the first one took it. “I am Fernando but you can call me Fer if you wish.” He had heard

The young man knew that if he was to succeed on ending this war/conflict then he would need to get all the help he could get, all the training he could get, and all the equipment he could get. He was used to working with less but based on what he had seen, funds were available to not have to do without.

"My president is Jack Baker who won against the incumbent Frank Wayne. Suffice to say I believe we can confirm we're from at least two different worlds. Kind of like how this world is far different from my own. Like how there doesn't seem to be any guns." Cole said as he considered the fact as he turned to the shield hero. "Also my name is Cole I'm the legendary Sword Hero, and the numb nuts over there is the spear hero. That girl is his companion. It seems our party has shrunk so we should stick together while Rin does whatever she wants to do." Cole said as King Vincent interjected and clapped his hands together, "I think the Bow Hero may have had it right. Go find that good for nothing sniper, and have him train you. Two weeks for a crash course in martial combat? Its doable....and remember my kingdom is possibly dead if you screw it up." King Vincent said firmly reminding them that their lives were the main reason others would live. "I...I don't really think I can understand where this is going to go but I'll do my best I can't speak for the others." Cole said painfully aware now that this would be quite the stressful life from here on out...at least it was better than college.

"Hey you there girl with the spear hero, Auriel right? Are you sure you're ready for this? I understand you must think highly of us but we're rookies too. We'll become stronger but it won't be easy for any of us." Cole questioned his charge plainly speaking he folded his arms together across his metal breast plate.

Fer hand was extended to shake the other two Hero’s hands. His grip would be firm but not menacing. He wanted to inspire trust but not initiate any sort of competition. His cool manner, however was dashed when the angelic figure emerged from besides the Spear. She introduced herself as Auriel but the rest of the sentence was lost to the young Shield Hero. His eyes took it all in but immediately were drawn to the wings sprouting from her back. Perhaps he should revisit the notion that this was Heaven or a version of it but he knew deep inside his own being that this was not that place. However, this cemented the idea that he was indeed not in his world.

He tried not to stare and knew that his mouth was beginning to slacken into an open mouthed embarrassment. He was saved by the distracting comment of the Sword. He immediately turned to Cole and nodded.

“I am sorry. I do not know who those people are. I am not from America. I believe you in saying that this is not our world.” His eyes shifted to Auriel as if this would make his point. He listened to the King’s make his announcement. While it was true that Fer had been given a brief summary, his mind was struggling to remember and to make sense of what he had been told. The more he saw or heard the more it made sense. He understood about the Dragon Glass and the Waves and the fact that the Four (?) of them were to be the pillars that would help this world survive. All of that was the preamble for the real goal and aim which was to get back home.

He knew that he would have to get stronger. He looked at the people around him and noticed their manner dress. They were armored and armed as people expecting to do battle aught. He looked at his own meager clothing and turned to Cole as he seemed to be the one that perhaps knew the most or at least had the most initiative but he also ensure to make eye contacts with any of the current party to signify that any one of them was welcomed to answer the query.

“I think I need to get some equipment. I was also told that I am not able to use weapons that this…” and he brought up his left arm to indicate the bracer like shield permanently attached there. “…would be what I use in fights but I don’t know what to do with it. It does not even look like a shield. Perhaps training can help? If I remember the person correctly, he said that the Wave would be here in two weeks? I am not sure if that is a long enough time so the more I practice the better I can help.”

His gaze shifted to Auriel who seemed to be well versed in fighting. His skills as a scout had at the very least taught him to how measure up a person to assess battle proficiency. He gave her an appraisal look and then moved a bit closer extending his arm. “I am sorry if I did not introduce myself earlier. I have never seen….” He gazed fleetingly to the wings and then quickly back at her” … I have never seen the things I see here in this world but it is very nice to meet you Lady Auriel and yes I will need your help. I think we all will.”

He smiled but there was tinge of sorrow. He had known many people from his troop who had started a campaign together and few to see its end. This world might be different and have different people and weapons but war was war. He wondered if he would be able to be efficient in this battle field. He did not know the terrain, the enemy and ( lifting up his left arm to stare at the metal bracer in his arm) he definitely did not know his equipment. He made a mental note to learn as much as he could about the capabilities and the “magic” that he could easily feel from the jeweled object.

He took a deep breath looked at his companions and a dedicated and resigned tone said “ Ok, what do we do and when do we start?”

====Retcon Spear Hero to be replaced by an NPC Spear Hero who wandered off Due to Player Leaving====

As Cole looked at the man's hand in front of him he considered his words, and then remembered that a shield by definition was a defensive weapon. He felt bad for him meaning him, and the spear hero, and the bow hero would also need to protect him and that made the odds intangibly more difficult. Cole held his hand up to his face, and for a moment with his sword just a bit away from him and then sighed as she sheathed the weapon, and used his right hand to shake the shield hero's hand. "I wasn't aware...however with the other two long gone it seems it will be up to both me, and you to work together. If you're willing to guard for me, and Auriel then please by all means do so." Cole then turned to Auriel. "I'm not sure how experienced you are..but I'm counting on you two. Together all three of us can save the world with the help of the bow, and spear regardless." Cole said raising his hand in the air. "First order of business we're off to the shop I got my armor! We're going to get you both something to wear. And a weapon for you Auriel...unless you have one. Then we're going to see Marcino!" Cole told them as he looked over the two new friends he had made as a squire came in and shoved a bag of gold into the shield hero's hands. "Oh yeah that was meant for you. You can use it to spend on armor, or food."

Fer took in Cole’s words. The uncertain tone was not lost to him as their current battle readiness seemed to dawn on the Sword hero. Out of the corner of his eyes he saw the Spear one depart and caught the look of dejection and sadness on the face of the young woman. He turned fully to Cole and nodded yet again, this time as acknowledgement of the part he was to play in the party. “Yes of course Cole” he said the name experimentally to ensure his tongue could form the words and to see if his direct address of the young Sword hero would be welcomed. Seeing no obvious issue with their familiar addressing, he continued. “If I can’t help by having a weapon then I will use this shield in any way I can. I will be your shield…” he turned to the approaching Auriel. “And yours too. Please do not think that I meant any disrespect when I spoke to you earlier. It is just that I am slowly getting used to this reality. Where I come from you are considered a great being, a warrior of God and a person of great power.” He smiled, a warm smile that showed a bit of his lost childhood. “It may take me a bit to act like you don’t have those pretty wings on your back but thank you for making me feel easy.”

He was interrupted by the small bulk of the coin pouch being shoved into his hands. When the Sword verified that the money was for him, the young Shield hero hesitated. He had never had much to call his own even before joining the rebels and the weight and sound of the pouch insinuated that this was a small fortune. However, the words of Cole made him realize that the kingdom trusted and relied on them to the point of funding their training and more than likely any campaign they were to embark in. He nodded his thanks to the King with a small bow of his head as if assuring the young monarch that the trust of the people would not be wrongly placed.

He turned to Cole and asked him the directions towards the merchant the Sword had previously used assuming the Sword would know best what sort of materials and wear to use. Then he spoke to both of his companions. “Please go ahead. I will buy what I need and meet you at the camp site.” He made sure to commit to memory the landmarks and direction the Sword hero provided for him and then he excused himself from all and took at a trot towards the direction of the merchant quarter. He took in as much as he could of his surroundings. The Castle was lavish, with thick walls and high parapets. The soldiers gave an air of capable martial prowess and from what he could see, they could more than likely deal with any conquering force. This made him realize that their need was even greater to summon people from other worlds. His mind recalled Auriel that had so selflessly dedicated her life to their cause. While he knew that her calling was also in service of the people who passed them on their way, he still felt grateful and touched.

This could be in part to the sense that in his past “life” nobody was looking out for him. He had to carve his place into the world and fight for all he had. There had been no hand up, or no shoulder to lean on. He set his jaw as sour memories flooded his mind. He pushed them away remembering that he was here now and for however long it took to stop these Waves, he knew in his heart that the two besides him would indeed watch his back and he vowed to the heavens that he would watch theirs. He would give his last breath before he would see Cole or the angelic Auriel fall.

His musings came to an end when he recognized the sign on the door that Cole had described. He stopped in front of wooden door. Fer looked briefly to the design of an anvil with a helmet on top and two swords crossing to confirm this was the place and then stepping forward opened the door. The smell of oils, leather and metal quickly assailed his nostrils. Much different from the smells of cattle, food, and people he had just walked through on the market area. While enclosed, the smell was not musty. His eyes adjusted quickly to the inside lighting and was then able to truly appreciate the space. The walls displayed armor of all kinds, sizes and materials. Weapons also hung from walls or were sheathed in leather holders for easy viewing.

The shop was not big but it was well stocked. From behind a counter a man appeared. He was no doubt the owner and creator of the many items in this shop. A young lad seemed to be busy polishing the armor pieces but somehow still managed to stay within ear shot, the apprentice no doubt. The man, a brawny fellow with the weathered skin of one who has spent countless hours near the forge, approached Fer and addressed him in a deep and reverberating voice.

“Welcome please come in…ah so again we have the honor of the patronage of heroes…” He said as his eyes scanned the young lad before him in firm and experienced manner. “Judging by your clothes I assume you are here to be armed and armored?” His question was more of statement but Fer still nodded. “Very well young man, is there something in particular you are looking for?”

While Fer was not versed in the medieval times of his world, he knew that what he needed was something mobile and a full suit of armor as those displayed in the shop would not allow him the mobility he needed. He swallowed to prevent his voice from cracking and said as confidently as he could. “I need the ability to be mobile and but still have my vital organs be protected. I am sorry if that does not help.” His voice sounded less sure as he spoke and the last was said in down tone.

The big man looked at Fer for a few seconds and then nodded. “Very well, I think a shirt of mail under half chest plate and segmented shoulder pauldrons should do the trick. Do ye require a helmet lad?”

Fer shook his head. He had never really fancied something on his head. It dampened the sound and as a scout that harmed your abilities. As the smith moved to collect his things, Fer noticed a short sword hanging from a nearby wall. He approached it. As he did, the apprentice did so.

“h..hi sir, I am Kemp ca…can I help you with something.” The voice was more excited than nervous and it made Fer feel uncomfortable.

“uh..no thank you I was just looking at that sword…um can I hold it?” He said as his hand pointed towards the sword in question.

“oh yes…of course.” The eager apprentice got the sword from its place and offered it to the young hero. Fer reached for it but as he did so he was surprised by a flashing sign right before his eyes similar to what someone with glasses experience when there is a scratch or streak on them. The sign read

CAUTION-RULE VIOLATION!

Fer stopped short of holding the blade as he wondered what this was. The apprentice, thinking the hesitation was due to politeness, all but shoved the grip into the hand of the hero. What happened next stunned both boys as there was a spark and both landed on their bottoms.

“What in the all the hells…” Came the booming voice of the smith. After finding both youths on the floor and a sword a few feet away the annoyance turned to laughter. “ I see ya boys learned first hand that the Shield Hero cannot wield any weapons. Why do ya think in dina offer it?” His laughter boomed again.

Fer got up and offered his hand to the young lad, which refused, as if scared he would get shocked or worse. “Alright lad, take these here things and go put ‘em on.” The big burly hands thrust the armor into Fer’s hands and the young Shield hero stepped into the changing booth. A short time later he reappeared.

“Well, they seem to fit. Move ‘round a bit. Feel it out” the smith said making motions with his body that Fer imitated. “ok, well now we come to the part the customers don’t like. I will take 150 silvers for the set.”

The young man retrieved the bag from the convenient loop of the belt made specifically for that. He poured out a pile into his hand and then counted it out to the big man. “Thank you, sir.” He said and the big man chuckled.

“no haggling? You really aint for ‘round here huh? Alright, well you know where to come if ya need an upgrade.” Fer thanked him again and then stepped out the door. The sun was much lower in the sky than when he had arrived and he silently cursed. He secured the pouch to his belt again and took off at a jog.

He made his way through the city. The crowds were less as the day’s activities came to slow. He followed the directions given to him by Cole and while it took him a little bit he arrived at their planned meeting place just as the sky was beginning to be tinged purplish blue. He was breathing a bit hard but he soon realized that the run in armor would have exhausted him normally. He wondered if the shield had anything to do with that.

After a minute or two he addressed his companions. “I am sorry. I hope I am not too late. Even if we don’t have time to get in a long practice, is it possible to go over what we know of these legendary items? I am not too certain about the writing that appears in the air when I do something.” He said remembering his earlier experience at the shop. “Also, I have noticed that my body feels stronger and more resilient. Finally…” he said spreading his arms as to show off his new armor “….What do you think? The smith recommended this.”

He was surprised how easily and how much he was talking and saying. Few in his old life would even know what his voice sounded like. He spoke only to brief his findings or to warn others. The pair before him however elicited feelings of closeness and friendship. Why? He did not know but he knew that his trust was not misplaced.

"I would agree that sparring would be good but let's see what Marcino has to say. He's supposedly one of the toughest snipers in an entire nation. If someone with that experience is at our beck, and call so to speak we should hear him out. I trust you're strong Auriel but I'd like to have a second opinion on the matter." Cole told her as the shield hero went his own way he told Auriel to follow him. "I've also met some contacts I'd like to meet later when I went out looking for a place to sleep. Ended up going to the same place the big guy went to. It's nice enough and when the people recognized me as the Sword Hero they gave me a free room. Rather nice of them all things considered." Cole told Auriel as he walked to the door after bowing to the king and giving him a proper goodbye.

Cole walked through the castle, and then out of it ending up on the streets of the city where he went along the pathways, and all the guarded checkpoints of the city. The city was full of citizens going about their lives selling goods, and doing chores. Many people stopped to gawk at Cole in specific as he waved to them. "I must admit...I'm not use to this attention, and I am certainly not use to it being positive." Cole confided in Auriel as he walked through the streets. He patted his iron armor adjusting it slightly it was costly but not too much so. His blue cape that flowed out from his back was a bit fancy but he got it at a store when he bought a second set of clothes. It cost him a penny but it made him look cool, and regal which is why he picked it. "I hope you're fine with me I know you wanted to join with the spear. But looks like he left you out in the dust like the Bow Hero did us. I'll do my best to help you get stronger so help me do the same." Cole told her as they arrived at the tavern.

Its robust, and loud hall was heard from inside as Cole entered a large dark skinned man with an eye patch, and rough clothes called out to him. The barkeeper had been friendly to him when he arrived. "Hey kid how you doin'?" the keeper asked as Cole nodded, "I'm fine just taking it one step at a time." Cole told him as he went over to the corner where Marcino sat. Large scars were visible on his chest now, his intricate bow was sat to the side of him, and his dark hair was messy. A large keg of beer sat next to him as he clicked his fingers together. "Hey rookies! On me!" Marcino said as Cole walked over and sat down at one of the chairs on the lone table Marcino sat at. "What about the shield?" Marcino asked as Cole informed him that new shield hero was going to get some armor, and come back to meet them here. He told them to wait and about five minutes later in came Fer. "Hey kid over here come on and sit down we got some stuff to talk about!"

"I guess it was true what they say about you Melromarc church people. You can't stomach even a passable drink like this eh angel girl? And good to see you didn't get shanked like that fake hero kid. Hopefully they didn't overcharge you on that armor." commented Marcino as he drank from his own mug of ale. He leaned over, and scratched his stomach as he looked at the three people here. "Let's make this clear. We don't gotta be friends. The big guy in Zeltoble tells me what to do, and I do it. My days of being an arena pit fighter, and adventurer may have come to an end but I'm going to be straight as possible with you. Legendary weapons won't do anything for either of the two heroes here. They may as well be fodder for the waves as they are now. If my information is correct, and it usually is, Mister Shield over here can't actually fight people unless he finds trying to kill someone with a flat end of the shield a viable option. And Mister Sword won't be hitting anything at range anytime soon. And with that little girl wandering around doing who knows what means the Bow Hero won't be of help to you until the Waves hit. Its the man, or woman, who wields the weapon that makes them special." Marcino explained very bluntly as he smashed his mug down on the table and leaned forward.

"I may not look it but I'm pressing sixty years of age right now. I've been fighting since I was 13. And because the heroes don't got any experience flailing those things around I'm going to suggest this: fight some Orange Ballons just outside the city. Infestation of them came up recently annoying little shits. But they're weak. If you somehow die then you weren't worth being called a hero by a long shot." Marcino said as he turned his attention to Auriel. "And as for you church girl. You got some experience I can see that much. But much as that counts for something it doesn't mean much against a wave if you let that confidence over take you. So don't go thinking you shouldn't ask your buddies at the church for some sparring practice when you're not helping the trainees over here." Marcino commented further was Cole pushed himself up out of his chair, and stared hard at Marcino.

"I may not know how to use a sword but neither of us seem to be physically incapable of learning quick. I think all of us can be prepared to do all we can." Cole said to him as he stared the man down as he cracked a amused grin at the Sword Hero, and then shook his head. "Well that's it right there kid. You don't want to learn quick. You want to learn right. Learning quick means mistakes. So take your time, and keep at it don't push it. No one masters a craft in a day. Ain't that right little lady?" Marcino laughed as Cole frowned but couldn't exactly fault him for speaking that way. He sat back down, and crossed his arms trying to think of a proper schedule for the orange balloon hunt. But he was almost positive that the others would say something first.