Alice sat next to Versle and folded her arms on the table. She couldn't stand the idea of drinking around strangers so it was only natural she'd sit on the side of the table with those who were like-minded. She was certain Nikolai and Adelaide probably wouldn't mind letting loose for a while. She was mildly aware of Adelaide being challenged to a drinking contest and hoped her sister had the brain cells to ignore him.

She was quiet for a while, seemingly content to sit there with her gaze down at the table. Her head was busy imagining the attack and how they could make the number of people they had efficient. Alice sighed and tapped her fingers on the table. Had they attacked with such a big group before? Having only her and her sister often benefited them. They were so used to each other that they synced up and read each other's minds easily, working together without needing to say a word. Sometimes less was more. Nonetheless, the situation could not be helped and she needed to figure something out. She hoped these men were smarter than some of them looked.

The voice of the man next to her made her raise her head. After a pause, she spoke softly, "I suggest observing the lizard from afar as there are questions we need to be answered such as... How fast is the creature? How big is it? Are we able to research it? Knowing something before jumping into a battle could be the difference between life or death, especially for those who fight in close range to the enemy." She raised one of her guns. "I am well equipped for distance and can offer myself to do such task before we all go into battle. Then knowing more about this creature, we may be able to divy up who's best suited for which target."

She set the gun down and cleared her throat to receive the attention of others. Alice knew perhaps they might find distaste in her speaking up but it did not phase her. "Everyone, introduce yourselves and tell us what you can do." Her gaze fell on the fox-like man. "Starting with you."

---

The fox found the excessive speed of events rather intriguing as he took to settling as a silent observer. A seemingly good decision with how the group were rushed out and within the blink of an eye had wound up at some tavern where a few members attempted to get a group drinking going.

An attempt to get to know each other and befriend each other. A most amusing effort with all the tension and ego stagnating the air around them. He, himself was no better in this regard, but unlike the rest who were rife with distrust and uncertainty, this kitsune was content with how things were going so far. Izu was also hardly the only one to notice this strange gathering as it was not often to get such a varied cast of characters *working* together if one could call it that.

For the time being he had chosen to remain standing (the chairs looking horribly uncomfortable and a minefield of splinters waiting to happen) on top of the fact of his haori's baggy nature proving cumbersome to sit in such a small space.

As such, the masked kitsune kept quiet, lurking nearly out of view to remind the group of his presence, but easy to be forgotten. That is, until one of the two ladies, the quieter one he might add began speaking about possible strategies transitioning to proper introductions.

Even if his posture seemed relaxed and carefree akin to one hardly paying attention to events happening around them, his fox-like ears remained perked all the while. Very much listening to the group's chatter before being pressed to go first.

A curious tilt of the head as his right hand slipped from of the sleeve to point a clawed finger at himself then lifted said finger to gently scratch at the mask in a pondering motion. A few soft wooden scrapes soon followed by a muffled titter.

" Who I am is what you see. A hunter and beast both but neither though I suppose it is a name that is desired, yes?" He spoke and though muffled could be heard well enough even with the breathily soft tone of his voice." Yes, a name. I suppose I could say Tails or fluffy but too cutesy or on the nose." Tilting his head with the tip of his right finger's claw gently pressed against his temple." Maybe feeling like a Gary? No no...Ichibald then?" A small shake of the head before standing up-right once more." I think simply fox shall do at least for now. And for what I bring to this group as the lovely miss has requested of us..."

Trailing off while going quiet and still. After a brief pause going on a tad too long for anyone's comfort had he pulled up his smoke pipe and took a big draw. Without warning he let loose a billowed puff of mellow pink color that enveloped the group.

A muffled snicker left his covered lips; eager to see their reactions to such an unexpected action. Might they think it an attack? Poison or paralysis. Those that didn't react right away would notice the sweet scent of strawberries and a mellow soothing sensation, otherwise it seemed harmless." And that is what I do. My aid is given freely, but times it will not be wanted." Was the last thing said by the kitsune before returning to his relaxed posture, paying little mind to any threat possibly directed at him for his little... demonstration.

"Finally, a drink and some sense." Takin took the mug from the very large man and swallowed it down in big gulps. Wiping the froth from his upper lip and belching, he looked to the woman who knows business and has taken hold of the conversation. As she gestures to the fox man standing awkwardly to the side, he turns and gives him an appraising look. Lean and of middling height, the man does not strike an impressive silhouette if it was not for the mask covering his face. He has an air about him that implies either wisdom or mischief, with Takin leaning towards the latter. Quickly however, Takin finds his mind wandering as the curious fox has nothing useful to say before his attention being brought back by him blowing a large smoke cloud over the group.
"You do parlor tricks then? Do you also make the smoke run around in the shape of horses to entertain children? I have no doubt you hold your skills in great regard, however, I am unsure how our strengths will play together."
Turning back to the group, he regards each for a moment, making sure they are settled and focused for once. He knows the place for banter but now is a time for business, that being the business of killing.
"Speaking of strengths, simply put, that is where mine lie. Strength. Strength in body as well as the blade. I may be small, it has not escaped my notice that I am the smallest here, but I assure you that does not bely the extent of my strength. As for the sword, this blade of mine," He gestures over his shoulder at the dark blade which exceeds his own height. "Can be wielded properly by me and me alone with no handicap by its size. I am team Lizard Fuck as previously stated and I do not excel in the planning of attacks. If it benefits the others, I am more than willing to initiate the fight so information can be gathered, do not mind my health."
At that, he sits back in his chair, crosses his arms and nods to the man next to him, signifying his speech is finished.

---

Being led into the tavern, Rayland reached his hand out as he passed by the bar and took up a mug of ale. Once the group found a table large enough to accommodate them, Rayland found himself a nearby pillar to support himself as he leaned against it as well. It seems the group is going around doing introductions. Rayland sighed and noted that he should probably procure some small details about himself that he would not mind sharing but not important enough to be used against him later on...

Rayland took in mental notes of the people that went before him. There is a fox-kin, that seems to be a magic user, seemingly skilled in illusions and other small tricks. How useful would that be in the upcoming battle? Rayland thought to himself. Hopefully the man actually has some survival skills so Rayland would not have to drag his useless corpse out of the battle...

Then was the short man, who took hearty slugs of ale from his mug. Rayland smiled lightly, as the man seemed to have bravado to spare. This is good. There is always a use for headstrong fools who would not hesitate to rush into battle before assessing the situation. It kept the enemies occupied enough for Rayland to take calculated shots to finish off the enemies. When the short man pointed to his weapon of choice, Rayland pursed his lips in a sign of approval and intrigue.

Of course, who can forget one of the Varo twins. This one spoke up about being able to keep distance and allow for the gathering of information on their targets. How interesting, seeing as that was the plan Rayland had as well. Keep distance, observe without being noticed, and devise a plan to deal efficient and devastating damage to ensure mission success. However, Rayland saw that role to be one best fitted for himself, as he had to hunt other monsters and such by himself, so he was used to having to observe without being seen and record vital information. However, more eyes on the target will surely increase their chance of success...

"Ralyand Gerhardt. You all might know me. You might not. It matters not to me. I'm here to kill the monsters and claim the prize. That is all. I hope to not have to drag any of your corpses out after the monsters have been slain. However, know that if you get in my way of a kill shot, I will not hesitate to shoot through you to deliver the blow. Successfully completing the missions is all that matters here. If I can't survive this mission, then so be it. Best of luck to all of us." Rayland said, keeping his own introduction short and concise.

So the big guy wanted to test her? Adelaide wasn’t one to back down from a challenge, especially a challenge she knew she’d be hard pressed to fail. She simply smirked at Versle before grabbing one mug and downing it in seconds before doing the same with the other. She slammed the mug down, wiping at her face as she gave him a smug look. It didn’t even seem like she was fazed by the alcohol. ”Confidence, arrogance, what’s the difference really? I know I can back up my words and be assured that I can hold my drink far better than you likely think.” She said, as she signaled for another drink. She then leaned back in her chair, listening to the others speak and pondering the task ahead of them.

”Might I point out that the queen said ‘reptilian’ in nature, meaning it could be a large variety of things. While countermeasures may be simple, they may not be depending on what it truly is. If it’s some kobold, then perhaps counter measures are simple. But what if it’s a naga or even a basilisk? Even a dragon or drake could be described as ‘reptilian in nature’. I agree with my sister that we should observe the creature before rushing in at all in hopes to determine what it is.” She said as she turned to listen to the fox man ‘introduce’ himself. The puff of smoke enveloped them and she instinctively held her breath for a moment, before waving the smoke away from her face with a bit of a bored expression.

”How cute, perhaps we should call you Smokey. I’m assuming magic is your game then? Certainly can be useful, especially in dealing with a bruja.” She then turned to the small man with the large sword and nodded in acknowledgement of him. ”Perhaps you and the big guy over here should have an arm wrestling competition. I’d be very intrigued to see that. Maybe I’ll even reward the winner.”

Next was Rayland and Adelaide couldn’t keep from rolling her eyes a little at his introduction and the mention of the kill shot. ”Good to know you don’t have the skill to readjust a kill shot to avoid friendly fire. I’ll keep that in mind.” She scoffed before going on to introduce herself. ”The names Adelaide Varo and Alice here is my twin sister. While she likes to keep her distance, I like to get up close and personal in a…surprising manner. I stick to the shadows and my blade always strikes true. I’m much quicker than many expect and quite a bit stronger as well. I also specialize in poisons and my knowledge of monsters is extensive as I have a photographic memory and can recall most everything I’ve ever read.”

When Latrell brought up the issue of who to kill first, Nikolai turned to face the man with a smile, “ No need to be concerned. With me here, both targets will be easily squashed. Just drink up lad! Let’s have a little fun. ” As far as Nikolai was concerned, they had been given easy money. This mission would be a piece of cake.

Alice also decided to keep up the serious conversation. “Are you that scared of a lizard, Alice? We can deal with that stuff after we have some fun and get to know each other more.” He nudged her with his elbow and gave a wink.

She had asked everyone to introduce themselves, which at least would be interesting. He looked at the masked man that had been told to start off. The guy apparently did not even know his own name. Nikolai figured he had some sort of brain damage, especially when he requested to be called “fluffy” or “fox.” Fluffy proceeded to pull out a pipe and start blowing pink smoke at all of them.Nikolai waved her hand in front of his face, trying to dispel the smoke, but it seemed to swallow them all. "Well, I guess we know who's bringing the party favors," He quipped. "Could say we got a party animal in our hands.”

After a moment, he then added, “ Also listen dude I don’t know what you are trying to say, Fluffy, but you are gonna have to speak normally.” Even though, it seemed ridiculous that blowing smoke was all Fluffy had to offer, Nikolai did see the merit in it. It could come in handy especially in a situation they needed to escape.

As the introductions continued, Nikolai did note that Adelaide had brought up a good point that reptilian in nature could mean a lot of things. Still, he couldn’t bother to be worried about it, not when he was surrounded by so much alcohol.

Nikolai took the opportunity of silence to dramatically slam his hands on the table as he stood up to take the attention. With a drink in his hand, he leaned a foot up on the seat and flashed them one of his famous dazzling smiles, “Well I am Nikolai Maximillion as you all probably know. Yes, I am even more attractive in person!” With his free hand, he pointed to the glaive strapped to his back, “Yes. That is the legendary glaive of Nikolai Maximillion. The one that killed a Beholder. Don’t faint, ladies. And don’t you dare faint either Fluffy!”

He grinned at Adelaide playfully and then readdressed his gaze to the group, "I don't like to brag, but I've been adventuring for quite some time now, and let me tell you, I've faced more beasts than I can count. Some people say I'm lucky, but I like to think that my perfected skills and my wits have something to do with it."He paused for a moment as if considering something. “ "Speaking of skills, I'm also pretty good at drinking, dancing, and charming the pants off beautiful ladies." He flashed a playful look at Alice and Adelaide.“ "But don't worry, I won't steal your hearts, at least not until after this job is done."

He then raised his glass in a mock toast. "So, here's to a successful mission, plenty of loot, and lots of good stories to tell afterward. Cheers, my friends!"

Listening to the introductions of the around the table was nothing short of an ego contest as far as Versle could tell, but if that's what this crew needed in order to acclimate then so be it. An eyebrow raised as he watched Adelaide down the first mug in a matter of seconds, the gusto in her words an interesting sound as she continued to egg him on, before turning her attention to Nikolai. The smaller framed man, Takin, seemed to be the nearest to his own skillset. Definitely an interesting choice to carry around a weapon larger than yourself, but he seems confident enough in his own skills. The fox-kin skulking in the corner blowing smoke rings amidst the group seems to be a weird choice for the task they've been given, but as Versle isn't much acquainted with magic himself, he let the others make the decision on its worth. Rayland and Nikolai both seem to share a similar personality in the likeness of "I'm the main character here", but at least they are interesting enough in their own rights. Versle ponders quietly while listening to the group, surely there was most to these people then they let on. Why would the Queen have summoned such a wide range of skills for something as seemingly simply as a lizard and some witch? His thoughts drift off as he thinks about Alice's suggestion of observation. With the unknown amount of usefulness each person brings to the table, it doesn't seem a bad call to have some extra information.

Versle slams down his drink as his turn comes around. "Guess that means its my turn. Versle is the name, and as you can clearly see by my size dwarfing all of you, punching things really hard in the face is my game." A soft nod to group as he speaks. "So we've got the wildest group of circus extras gathered here to take down a lizard and some witch in the mountains. Has no one else thought that there is more to this than meets the eye?" He says with an air of curiosity. "I've been in these mountains my whole life, nothing like this has ever appeared here before. I'm not opposed to giving the 'hunters' their chance at recon if that's what they feel is needed, but something about this assignment just doesn't seem right."

Opening the floor to more discussion, he waves his hand to the beermaid to bring the next round as he finished his current drink. Looking to Adelaide as if to test her constitution, "don't forget to breath between drinks" he chuckles to himself as he fully gulps down his next drink.

---

The reactions to his little prank had proven a mixture of both interesting and boring. A trick that worked quite well on rookies which led to bouts of panic or hostility at first. This group, however, quickly showed the difference between rookies and expert and skilled hunters and with it came plenty of overconfidence that swelled along side their egos.

While a harmless prank, it was also a method to glimpse some things about this so-called rag-tag team by their reactions. None were amused nor impressed by his antics. As far as they knew he was simply a masked fox viewed likely the weakest of the group who seemed to little else than childish illusions. Exactly how the kitsune preferred it. Not like any in this group cared one iota about the other; those that couldn't suppress their human instincts typically tried to brag and impress the females. Humans and their constant need of procreation; a bunch of constantly horny beings which most other races found pathetic and sad, his opinion though was more on in-difference excluding whenever the humans became obnoxious or obsess with flirting and open sexual mannerisms. Save for when it actually causes trouble and drama for whatever group he was with making for some amusing chaos and from the looks of this group, chances of things getting heated would likely happen sooner than later.

He was there to give his aid to the best of his abilities as he was still a professional. Yet, doesn't mean he couldn't have his fun; considering in particular that everything about this job was fishy. Enough so that others of the group actually took notice of it which was both surprising and expected of experienced hunters. Still, people like successful hunters tended to consist of egotistical attention or power seekers to the point of often missing easy and obvious dangers or hints of a trap. Here the fox assumed no one else would pick up on it and while he could elaborate on it but seeing as he lacked any other clues or information at the moment and chose to remain silent lest he gave some unintentional misunderstanding (his bread and butter) though doing so with topics like these would more likely make him seem like an enemy or saboteur, as such one had to pick and choose what matters to infuse his bit of chaos into.

And as the introductions carried on, each member spoke of some of their capabilities while making sure not to reveal their entire arsenal. Ever the cautious and careful sort, hunters were and he was no different though his manner of doing so was probably due to a different kind of motivation.

By the time introductions was finished he had been given two nicknames already and looked down as a cheap entertainer. His head shifted, mask hiding the sly smirk worn beneath.

His eyes shifted between each of the individual he would be traveling with for some unknown amount of time. Taking in and studying their features along with the pitch and mannerism of their speech though his attention would soon be directed to the talking metal machine.

The device moved and spoke which was easily enough to get his attention and would be sure to properly inspect it at a later time.

For now, though was figuring out their next plan of actions, but first the robed fox slipped the pipe back within his sleeve then took a step in Nikolai's direction where he gave a small and quick polite bow." Apologies. Tis the habit of kitsunes." A playful titter following his apology." I will endeavor to articulate more clearly and loudly." He said while raising his voice only slightly higher than his previous whispery volume.

A clearing of the throat." And for what Mr. Godfrey has suggested, I approve though I also wish to add suggestions to make plans and gather supplies in preparations for tomorrow morning." Tilting his head, scratching at his head pondering momentarily before holding up his right hand with two clawed fingers raised." Perhaps do so in pairs? Might do well to get preparations done more quickly and... " Trailing off as building up bonds as he originally intended to say did not apply as none here wished or desired to be pals or friends save for the two sisters, but after thinking another moment piped up." Ensures none of the group is alone to be ambushed or attacked and the like." He said, finishing what he had to say then went back to being a quiet figure barely there.

Gratefully reaching for a new ale as it is brought to the table, he takes his time drinking this one as he contemplates the group and their introductions. Most of them turned out to be the general adventuring hunter types, regardless of their posturing to the group. Fight, kill, make money. Nothing special for the most part. There were a couple minor outliers, like the fox, the crazy little robot thing and of course the guy that thinks everyone should already know his "handsome face."

"Now that the pissing contest is over with, I would like to acknowledge a few good points. As The Mountain so astutely observed, if there was a bitch witch and a overgrown lizard in these mountains, someone would have noticed before. Seems like someone has taken up a vacation home here. Good news is, usually that means that they're not really "dug in" yet, so as our Robot Tamer so kindly offered, first light is probably going to be our best bet. The sooner we attack, the less prepared they will be to defend."

Takin gestured with his mug to each as he mentioned them before finishing the rest, setting down the mug, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair.

"As I mentioned previously, I am not one big for planning shit. However, if the party sees fit, it may not be a bad idea to have some recon done pre-engagement. Seems like The Drinking Queen here is well suited. If she sees anything too fucking weird we can rethink things, otherwise I'm just gonna go cut some shit up and hope y'all are behind me. I don't need preparations but if Fluffy is too scared of the dark, I'll watch a back or two, carry a pack or two, whatever."

Finished saying his piece, Takin sits and waits for the others to finish discussing. If he's needed, someone will ask for assistance, or they won't, he didn't much care right now. Tomorrow, there would be death. Either the monsters, or them. Maybe not all of them, a couple look like they'll turn tail if things go south. But for now, they drink. ♪ Drink, drink, drink. For tomorrow we may die.♪ Softly, he chuckles to himself, finding morbid humor in his thoughts before he snaps his attention back to the table and looks around to see if there's another round of drinks yet.