Jomari stopped running and hunched over, hands on his knees as he panted hard. Despite his best efforts, Nuallán was still faster and far away from him but at least he could still make out what he was saying. "I just... G-Give me a moment... Catch my breath..." He stammered, his heart beating fast from being tired all day long and now running across the shifty sands.

The sands... Nuallán said the earth came in all states. No matter how different they were from each other, they were still all the same in composition. As the elf continued to run and follow the tracks, Jomari was left to ponder what he said. He stood up properly, watching how the sands were easily blown and dispersed by the wind but every grain still found its way back down, back down to its home. He looked up and gasped in amazement at the bright stars shining in the night sky. As he did, he remembered a key moment in his life...

Nanay Minda and Tatay Carlos would join Jomari when he was younger in stargazing, resting on a hammock that was tied between two trees. They would tell him the stories of his forefathers. Despite the continued efforts of the invaders to ruin and defile their culture, some of it managed to survive and had been passed down from generation to generation.

"And Father said there is only one God, that He is both the ruler of Heaven and Earth." Young Jomari said one night.

"Oh, don't believe anything that comes out of that snake's mouth. That's all a load of buffalo crap they say to brainwash us. Ow!" Tatay Carlos said when Nanay Minda twisted his ear and glared at him. "Watch your language, Carlos, or I'll feed you to the dogs!" She threatened him and he could only mumble and roll his eyes in response, earning a giggle from Jomari. No matter how tough of a man Carlos thinks he was, he was still no match for his wife and they both knew it.

"Listen, Jomari." Minda caressed Jomari's cheek and looked at him in the eyes. "Did you know our forefathers believed in more than one god? It's true!" She said enthusiastically when the kid widened his eyes in surprise and wonder. "They believe that everything in this world has a god that protects it and they made it their duty to worship all these gods. It's quite tiresome but they never falter in doing this task. Do you know why?" Jomari shook his head. "Because they also believe that these gods, these spirits, are all worthy of respect and worship. Besides, if it is true what Father said about there only being one true God, wouldn't it be lonely if you get to rule only by yourself?"

Jomari slowly nodded, still in the process of understanding what his step-mother said. "Where are they, Nanay Minda? Where are those gods?" Minda sighed and kissed his forehead. "Look at the trees around us. The running river where you and the kids always bathe in. The fire we create to heat our food. The animals that thrive in this forest. The very earth we walk on. The moon, sun, and stars in the sky. Look around you, Jomari. The gods are everywhere." Nanay Luzviminda said in a dreamy voice, looking back up to the sky. Tatay Carlos smiled and ruffled the little boy's hair before he too looked up at the sky. Jomari did the same ahd they cuddled together in the blanket of the night, surely remembering this moment for the rest of his life.

Right now, Jomari closed his eyes and breathed deeply, stretching his hands from his sides slowly up toward the sky. As he did, the sands would also disperse upwards. He could feel it, the connection he had with his element. He couldn't explain how but he could not deny the feeling he had in his heart. "Nanay Minda, Tatay Carlos. I hope you're doing well. We'll see each other again, I promise." He said, smiling peacefully for the first time since he arrived in this world.

He brought his hands down, palms facing the sands below and they swirled beneath his feet. He chuckled to himself and finally embraced the weirdness of this world, now knowing what to do. With one foot back and a motion of his arms, he created a wave of sand that he rode on. He laughed in glee, feeling the cool wind blow against his face as he managed to travel over a long distance so quickly and easily catch up to Nuallán. "Jump in, quickly!" Jomari shouted at the elf when he was only a few feet away from him, thinking of using this sand wave to swiftly follow the tracks left behind by the bad guys.

Time: Morning
Location: River Port-Inn
Interactions: Rue @Potter
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (a bit less than an ounce), rolling papers, and 191 amas.

---

”Do you want to leave with anyone else?”

Bowyn thought for a moment on Rue’s question, unsure if he was the right one to make that decision. He didn’t trust any of them, and after what the elves had just pulled he didn’t like either of them very much right now. He also knew himself enough to know his judgments on these things weren’t always practical. He’d thought Arn was the last one he should trust, but in a time of crisis Arn proved to be level-headed, and the dwarf had trusted Bowyn enough to make his decisions. Unfortunately, Arn was no longer an option. The opposite could be said of Eris, who he had previously thought was pretty alright for an elf, and he’d clearly misjudged that assessment. Kaleb seemed tainted by his association with Eris now, as did Annya. The only one he was sure of was Raven, the known human, volatile with her newfound powers, an unsafe companion, but not someone he could not hold a grudge against given her circumstances.

“Right now, you’re the only one that I trust, Rue. So, I think it’s best if you pick who we travel with, and I will follow your lead. Just the two of us might be too dangerous, especially with some many dark elves out and now, maybe even demons.” Bowyn, as always, remained true to his word, he told Rue he’d trust her, and while he hadn’t said he’d trust who she trusted, he’d at least try and work with them.

Her next question, about where to eat, was far simpler. “Right now all I want is a cold drink and some honey toast. I was thinking we could get food at the stalls and maybe pick up supplies if we need anything for the journey. And, I guess we’ll also have to figure out where we’re going to go from here. That is if you're up for walking around?”

Time: Morning
Location: On the deck of the Harem
Interactions: @Tae Lizzie @Potter Tigerlily @Alivefalling Barboda @Helo Nym
Equipment: The clothing on his back: A unbuttoned dress shirt of the pirate-y variety, leather breeches, matte black in color, leather boots, in surprisingly good shape. Dagger, borrowed from Tigerlily

Tesoro cringed inwardly at the sound Tigerlily's tail made as it transformed back into a pair of legs. He would have subconsciously admired the woman in front of him. She may have even caught him staring. "No. Not leaving you to the sharks. Though I can push you back into the sea if you'd like? Then maybe I'll dive in and join ya for a swim. Seems like a good day for it." He said with a mischievous grin on his face as well. When Tigerlily thanked him, it felt oh so odd. The pair were at each other's throats not 24 hours ago. Guess a skirmish really changes people. "Don't...mention it" Tesoro said, his tone elevating ever so slightly at the end as even he doubted the genuineness of what he had just said.

There was more commotion from the other ship, and a sound that could be taken as a gunshot. Tesoro looked towards the direction of the sound, feeling rather uneasy. The deck of the other ship looked empty previous, as it still does. However, if a shot was fired, that means there were more hostiles below deck. However, he does not doubt the combat abilities of the ones that made their way onto the ship.

However, it would seem their nightmare was just beginning.

The crew made their way back to The Harem. Tesoro took notice of the ones that walked back. Nym, Helio, Barboda...carrying Lizzie? When Barboad set Lizzie down and said what he said, Tesoro looked about slightly, seeing if anyone sprung into action to treat her wounds. "I-" He began to speak. "Tigerlily, can you please bandage her the best you can? Regardless of how much effect it will have. I'm sure she would not want to go out with gashes on her body... Please." He said calmly. Then he looked at the rest of the crew that came back to The Harem. Afterwards he peered over to the other ship which was still afloat. He made a small "tze" noise through gritted teeth and calmly walked below deck...

When he would return, he would be carrying two kegs of powder on each shoulder, filled to the brim. Previous injury be damned. He set the two kegs down with a thud against the side railing of The Harem. Snatching a nearby botefeux and some scrap cloth, he unplugged the kegs and stuffed the bits of cloth back through the holes. Using the lit botefeux, he lit the cloths. As the cloth burned, he stepped behind one keg, squatting down and hugged the wooden barrel. Pushing himself and the barrel up with his legs, he hinged his hips back and with one forward motion, he thrusted his hip forward and his upper body followed. With a roar, he tossed the first keg at the bow of the schooner. The barrel flipped through the air and landed at the front of the ship. The impact caused the wooden barrel to crack open and the cloth ignited the powder contained within, causing an explosion. "Nym, get us underway, anywhere. The next barrel is going to sink the bitch." He looked at Nym once then turned away. He then walked up behind the other barrel, cloth burning away. Standing off to the side of the keg, he hugged the barrel and hefted it up to the point where he was standing with in against his chest. Torquing his body and rotating his arms and shoulder about 90 degrees, he spun forward violently and 'curled' the barrel towards the schooner with another roar. The barrel tumbled smoothly through the air and landed at the base of the main mast of the other ship. The impact caused the keg to explode and severely damage the mast, if not blowing it clean off.

Tesoro stood where he was, huffing and seething with rage and simply stared at the battered schooner.

Time: Morning
Location: Myriamor Plaza- Summer Harvest Festival
Interactions: Caelan @Alivefalling Slick @FunnyGuy Aurora @Mole
Equipment:Clothing,Backpack, Sketchbook with drawings, various drawing supplies, iPhone, charging cable, strawberry pocky, earphones, and a pouch with two rations of food, water flask, a bar of soap and a few other portable hygienic products.


Sophie had glanced up at Caelan, silently wiping her own eyes. His words made her feel a pang of guilt. If she went home, she'd be leaving behind any number of other humans to die like that. But could she do anything to really stop it? Could Caelan? She wasn't sure if it was just better off they all went home, but Caelan clearly did not plan on that. No one else seemed as upset as she did. She would drag down the group if she continued acting like this, but she wasn't sure how to just let it roll off her shoulders like them. After a deep breath, she moved over to pick up her bag and looked at Aurora and Slick, "I'll go dry off and change." She was rather abrupt as she moved back to the changing room. There was a rack of towels nearby for them to use. She took one and went into a stall. After a moment, she returned, back in her dress this time. Sophie rocked on her heels anxiously as she awaited the others.

Time: Morning
Location: River Port
Interactions: @FunnyGuy Darius @samreaper Menzai
Equipment: Old hat, Clothes from a dead elf, Steel Sword


Dante looked at Darius for a moment with a smirk then looked back Menzai. “You can skip the sir in our names there Zai.” He laughed and continued talking. ”So, what kind of agreement are you looking for?” Dante asked before the waiter came back with their food. The smell was delicious and he was starving. “Ah, this is the slime day special; it looks amazing.” He told the waiter. The dish was multi-coloured jello surrounded by a variety of fruit alongside another plate containing a beefsteak with mushrooms and some mashed potatoes decorated with a variety of herbs and spices.

Dante took a bite of the steak and it was the juiciest mouth-watering steak he had ever tasted. The herbs complimented the steak with divine flavour. Dante was speechless as he neatly yet hastily zoned on his meal as he waited for a reply.

Nuallán heard Jomari's words on the background, winded and exhausted. While Nuallán knew that humans had a lot of potential, maybe he was expecting too much from them when he thought Jomari would be able to get a grasp on his powers and already make use of them so quickly, even after he tried explaining it to him. Still, maybe it was for the best. Not only Nuallán had no intention of showing any mercy to her mistress' captors and didn't really know how Jomari would react to seeing that side of him but he also didn't want to be slowed down by him.

Just a few moments after Nuallán heard Jomari's voice though, he started feeling a strange vibration and movement in the sands below him, gradually getting stronger, to the point that it made running impossible due to the shifting and moving sands. The moment he looked back, he was thoroughly surprised to see that the reason for all that was that Jomari was successful in understanding his own element and making use of it.

Riding on top of a wave of sand, Jomari shouted to Nuallán to jump on it, which he did almost reflexively as it approached him. While Nuallán's expression didn't change from the dangerous one he had when he started chasing his mistress' captors, he was still surprised with how quickly Jomari was able to grasp his abilities. In silence, he turned towards Jomari as he gave a silent nod of approval as he looked forward again, making sure to not lose the footprints they were following.

---

Menzai remained quiet for the moment while the two brothers got settled and made themselves comfortable. This time used to study each of them in turn; unable to help but be curious seeing as he was the first of his people to see any human in hundreds of years. At first look they seemed so...ordinary and yet he could sense something from them, what it was he couldn't say. Some more observation and information would be needed but his inquiries needed to be put on hold for the time being.

His ears visibly flicked upon hearing Dante speak up; a clear sign they were very much real though being referred by a nickname brought a small, displeased frown to that otherwise near blank face. Yet, he held his tongue for the time being as the two likely had plenty of questions for the strange canine suddenly requesting to join them.

Waiting till both of them had the chance to speak and was grateful to see that Darius was not bothered at being referred to by his formal manner." Before I answer, I must request to refrain the use of nicknames. Please, if possible, call me Sir Isanami or Mr. Isanami if the first suggestion proves too formal." Stopping there for a moment to gauge their reactions to his simple request before carrying on.

Ignoring the small twitch of his nose caused by the enticing and tantalizing scent of steak and sweet fruits tickling his nose. Nothing he couldn't handle, but as expected being surrounded by all the different kind of smells coming from the food proved a bit distracting to his sensitive nose.

" As for the agreements mentioned. Besides the minor request I have two others with simply allowing me to join in your travels where I may help in whatever endeavors and goals to be completed. Secondly, when my protection or aid is not in need that I be seen and treated purely as an observer. Whatever personal incidents or troubles that involves no harm or risk of safety will be such that I will not get involved." He finished with a small nod of his head as he once again peered over each of them in turn, taking in their reaction and facial expression.

It was at that time he saw the menu hosting the listed meals the establishment offered which he responded by lifting his right arm that had been hidden within the long sleeves folded across his lap. His right hand was raised, revealing those sharp fingernails that were more akin to claws where he would give a small wave in a declining motion.

" I offer my thanks, but I must decline as I lack any monetary funding to pay compensation to this establishment." He directed as politely as possible to the server before shifting his hand till only his index finger was up." However, if possible, I would request for a glass of water if it not too much trouble and with it I extend to you my appreciation." The wolf added along with a kind nod then lowered his hand to slip it back within the long sleeve where they rested along his lap once more.

---

Uzul made note of Kuroi's excellent show of self-discipline in the situation. Whether this equanimity originates from his soul or if this is a byproduct of Kuroi's training was unknown to Uzul but either way, it would be helpful. Uzul cupped his hands and had Kuroi step into them. Uzul started by taking a small step forward, following them by a series of incrementally springier steps, hopping from one rocky ridge to the other. It all cumulated at the end of the ridge, compressing Uzul's body into a tense spring. Uzul's body strained against the forces he was imposing on himself and retaliated by launching up, releasing the built-up energy into a magnificent leap. Uzul at the last minute changed the direction of the energy to launch it into Kuroi's feet, sending him high into the air to get a vantage point of the situation.

Uzul prepared to do another leap to grab Kuro to break the fall for him as Uzul knew he could manage a fall from high in the air but Kuroi he was not sure about. After that, it was time to make a mad dash after the princesses.

Time: Morning
Location: The Harem
Interactions: @Alivefalling Barboda @princess Helio @Infinite Cosmos Tesoro @Helo Nym @Potter Tigerlily
Mentions:
Equipment:




Lizzie felt herself going in and out of consciousness, but she could still hear her crew speaking. The pain was immense and she knew this was how she’d meet her end. Surprisingly enough she wasn’t afraid, she was dying after protecting her crew. She was on the seas, her home, the place she loved. She much preferred this death over that which would have happened back on Earth. Being hanged was something she hoped would never happen to her and she was getting her wish.

Barboda apologized to her and promised to avenge her, a sentiment she truly appreciated. Tigerlily even seemed concerned about her, despite their rough start to their relationship. Nym spoke beautiful words and, while her heart ached a little, she felt more at peace at hearing them. Helio did what he could to ease her pain and it was only after this that her eyes opened for a moment. She saw the tears forming in Helios' eyes. Slowly she reached up and caressed his face. ”Don’t ya fret, I feel little pain now thanks to you.” She said softly to him, smiling before slowly removing her hand and then looking over to Nym.

”Thank ya, my friend. Yer words bring me great peace and I am glad to have ya by my side.” She said to Nym, trying her best not to wince as a small wave a pain went through her. She didn’t want them to worry over her. She then glanced to Barboda.

”Make that bastard pay.” She said to him with a grin. She was surprised to actually be seeing his face, but found herself oddly thankful to finally know the man under the helmet before she was gone. She then looked over to Tigerlily.

”Show this world how fierce us lassie’s can be, yeah?” She gave her a playful smirk, but then she did wince and grit her teeth. She had one more person she needed to address, she couldn’t leave yet. She desperately wanted to fade into the darkness, but she couldn’t. Not until she addressed Tesoro.

After a moment, Lizzie opened her eyes and met those of Tesoro. ”I may have to put off our fight for a little longer. A shame as I was quite looking forward to it.” She let out a small chuckle, but it quickly turned into a cough. Blood came with the cough and her breathing became just a bit more labored. ”Take care of them and I’ll make sure the sea continues to favor all of you once I’m back with her.” She continued on, but her voice was weakening quickly and her breathing was beginning to slow. She slowly closed her eyes and was ready to drift off into the darkness.

”Thank ya….all of…ya…” It was almost a whisper as it came out and moments later Lizzie was gone, the breath having left her lungs completely as her spirit returned itself to the sea.

---

Time: Morning
Location: River Port Beach, headed to Tipsy Tavern
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy & Annya @princess
Mentions: Bowyn @Helo Inori @Shard
Equipment:

---

Eris grinned over at Kaleb as he told her she was anything but common. ”You’re very sweet, you know that?” She said softly to him, finding that she actually felt a small bit of endearment towards him. He was her human and she felt a small bit of possessiveness towards him, but she wouldn’t admit that to anyone but herself. Annya moved to the other side of her and began helping support Eris, which she wasn’t about to complain about. She would gladly let others take over most of the work of carrying her along.

Kaleb had quite the opinion on what Bowyn would be like and Annya reassured her that Bowyn would hopefully understand. Eris thought back to the last vision she had of Bowyn and knew that likely wasn’t the case. The winter fairy didn’t seem to be one that forgave easily nor was he incredibly understanding. Perhaps he’d even consider not continuing on with them, but she supposed they’d see. ”Well if anything it’s something to worry about later. For now, I just need some rest and a drink. I do quite enjoy the Tipsy Tavern and I think you will as well, Kaleb.” She said with a grin.

She’d briefly glanced over at Inori just before he departed and she felt a little relief once he was gone. After the broadcast that happened, she was also feeling a bit wary of the demon. She couldn’t really care less about what happened to the other humans, but now that Kaleb was here she was concerned for him. They knew little of the demon that had approached him and, even though he claimed to not know Pride, she didn’t entirely trust him. ”What do you think we should do about that little demon if he does return? I’m not sure about him.” She quietly asked Annya once he was gone.

Time: Morning
Location: River Port Beach
Interactions: Annya @princess , Saorise @Potter Raven/Eris @Tae, Ismael @Th3King0fChaos
Equipment: Cobalt Saber, Cobalt Half Plate, 1490 Amas, Map of Avalia, Lantern, Water Flask, 3x Torch, x10 Travel Rations, Washing Brush.

Kharne was quite surprised by Red's softer side with Raven. She always came off as a hardass, whether by her words, her actions, or how she held herself. So this softer side came as a small surprise. Then again he was fairly soft with the white haired girl as well. She had an air around her that made him feel like she needed protecting. Well until she could summon tornadoes at will. Then she could go about protecting people with natural wind-based disasters.

While Annya hugged and spoke to the girls and worked her magic Kharne gathered up his armor from the pile it was in. He'd have to clean it back at the inn since they needed to get moving. The two girls would follow the giant and Ismael back to the inn. Ismael spoke, telling them to keep close to the pair. "Keep a steady pace and don't get distracted, we're going right to the inn. If you need to, hold into my tail so we don't get separated." He rumbled down to them as he bundled up his armor to carry it comfortably with one arm. The other hand held that giant blade of his, the loops and sheathe for it were attached to the back-plate of his armor.

Of the group it seemed Kharne and Ismael had been the least affected by the quartering of the human. "What did you do before you were conscripted, Ismael?" He questioned, still keeping the younger man hidden. Some people were conscripted into mercenary work or even in the military these days if skirmishes were happening and not enough manpower was had.

Time: Morning
Location:Avian City
Interactions: Aiko @FunnyGuy Augus IV
Equipment: Dress and thigh-high socks(Slits on the inner sides of the sleeves), Black boots, Pouch with amas, Lipstick, Mysterious bag of fun drugs


"Let's get you a transmission bracelet then, Kold-"Yuka then winked at him, "I mean, Prince Orias, your glorious highness. Your princeyness!" She couldn't blow his whole elaborate cover of being a fake prince. It was working way too well. "I love gadgets! I love conveniences! Lead the way baby bird!"

Once they arrived at the shop, Yuka was practically shaking with excitement as she took in the sight of all the stuff.

At the sound of the fetus's words, she turned her body to face Orias and blew him a kiss, "Buy me something nice darling husband~" She giggled and then took a moment to take in her surroundings. The polished marble shelves were interesting to her. Avians were sure uppity up here. She loved a high-class convenience store. She clicked her tongue and gave the shopkeeper finger guns before moving into the isle to browse.

First up, she went right toward a pillow in the isle of travel supplies and took it in her hand. Yuka bit her lip with a smile as she concentrated on squishing it. Squishy, squishy...Her movements got aggressive for a second then she put it down and moved on from that adventure. The rest of the isle was just boring travel shelters and blankets so she moved on to the next, where she found a bunch of different eye protectors. Placing some black ones on her face, she began admiring herself in a small mirror. Oh look at you. She decided to keep them on as she walked around.

That was when she found the gold mine of the store. Her eyes flashed as she locked on the rope on the top shelf. Yuka zoomed over to it and began unraveling it with unbridled energy.