---

Even this early in the morning, the place is already crowded.

The Gray Flame, at an assured pace, walked in. His blue eyes, peeking from the two slits on his white mask immediately affixed on one of the tables where a woman sat; a beautiful blue-haired elven woman with similarly blue emerald eyes that looked too stands out to be part of Cloudsong assets.

"Ah there you are, I've been waiting for you..." she regarded them.

"You look stunning, Miss Carina, as always,” The masked man said with uncanny smoothness, but the blue-haired beauty didn't look very amused.

"And you, Mr. Gray Flame, never change." said the woman politely, as if letting the words be interpreted as a compliment they definitely were not. "Please sit down."

"There is no need. We won't stay long." Between answering and letting himself be at ease, the masked man tilted his head to glance toward his armor-clad companion briefly.

"That's unfortunate. Their selections are to die for." the woman said, in a more relaxed tone. Her next words kinda explained why she looked slightly grumpy. "Look at the lines. They said it would be one hour until my pancake was ready. It's on me by the way if you changed your mind."

"No, we are good."

"Very well." The blue-haired lady sighed and handed him a brown envelope from her bag. "Your eyes only."

Though nobody could guess the content, it was a brief read. The Gray Flame nodded as he tucked the opened letter into his vest pocket.

"There is one thing," she said. "The intervention from the Council is inevitable on this one. They will send an emissary to aid you."

"The council? That council? It seems information distributes crazily fast these days. Is this one of those last-minute decisions as well?"

"Yes, fortunately after some lobbying, the emissary was hand-picked by Lord Adnan himself."

Behind that white mask of his, it was hard to discern his expression, but his posture clearly showed his perplexity. Clearly, what the woman called fortunate was not at all good news for him.

"Adnan, that sneaky civet. What the hell is he planning this time..." he murmured.

The elven woman merely shook her head, as if the gibe fazed her no more. "Is there a complaint or anything that I can relay? Who knows, this Chivet of ours is known to be a good listener."

"No... just let him do his work in peace --maybe there is some silver lining in this... I guess. Just send my regards to your boss. He still owes me that one and he did this to repay me... gee!"

"I will tell him that."

The very mask he wore looked as if it would show a grimacing expression. "Please don't. I want to keep my salary and paid leave intact..."

The blue-haired woman, despite her nonchalant expression, sounded like she was suppressing a triumphant giggle. "Hmm. You know, this establishment also has quite a colorful dinner menu. And since you declined my offer, I was hoping that you could make it up to me."

Looking at the restaurant, The Gray Flame couldn't help but be impressed as well. Though the food was the main reason why people lined up to spend their money here, the interior quality was also top-notch; it was well-designed with South Coast's warm decorative styling that felt fresh and novel, and at the evening, they also had an ensemble playing a snazzy classical piece.

The fare wouldn't be cheap for sure, but at least Adnan wouldn't be taking his bonus. Besides, he and Carina had been friends for a long time and they didn't meet each other every week.

"It seems I can't say no this time. Fine, since you have decided on the venue, I will decide on the menu."

"No deal, Mr Gray Flame." the woman finally smirked. "It is supposed to be a make-up occasion, and you don't have any say in that!"

"Fine... fine... ink me the date after I returned from this assignment."

"Then I wish you a safe journey, Mr Gray."

"And you, a good day, Miss Carina."


The knight-errant remained largely unmoving through the exchange, only the muted groan of well-oiled steel marking the slight turn of his helmet as his gaze fell upon the morning patrons of the eatery. His entire presence wasn't subtle and he never tried to pretend otherwise, making it a strange choice for this old acquaintance of his to specifically ask for his presence, but he refrained from questioning... at least until they were out of earshot.

"I believe she had defeated you quite soundly in that exchange, Ser Gray." The echoing baritone rumbled with amusement, barely muffled by the unreasonably thick full-face helmet. The masked elven man did little to hide his displeasure.

"Heh-- This is the third time she ransomed my pay, and likely won't be the last..."

The duo made their way through the city, that had been in its full swing even this early in the morning. As the Gray Flame's attempt to not appear standing out was foiled by Engelbert's full-armor display, he decided to not bother and lowered his hood, letting his long gray hair free. It was starting to feel sweltering on his nape anyway.

It was early summer, which meant the idyllic, lazy air that had been the trademark of the city had been transitioned into a more energetic tone.
Despite already having Silmetirta Waterfalls (which was the largest in the continent) and Runna village as the tourist hotspots, Alkautsar opens its door to those who still seek a livelier experience a bustling city can offer; for the entire summer, the capital city roads and plaza would be more enlivened by night markets and smaller festive. Every venue and corner would be adorned by lamps of all colors, with pleasant music playing in the background.

"So, pray tell. What is it that the council wants this time?" said the Knight-Errant finally as they took turns toward the main road.

"Well, my friend. It was indeed surprising that the Council was involved itself this quickly..." The masked elf paused to peak at the swift stream below. At daytime, the ever-clear and ever-flowing canals that run beside every main road in the city would serve as the temperature controller that kept even the scorching sun during the peak of the summer at bay. The white trees that adorn the sidewalks would be replaced every few decades, but the waterways had always been there since the first foundation of this city was built.

"And What do they want? Hard to say. But they always have this obsession with the status quo, keeping things balanced. That sort of thing. It is hard to say who is ahead of who is now in the race of information-gathering between them and Varenheim.

The armored titan shrugged, crossing his arms before the right rose to tap his helmet where his chin would normally be. "I believed they didn't have any concrete lead, else we wouldn't even be here in the first place. Or at least I wouldn't. You, my friend, will undoubtedly be entangled regardless."

"Oh well. In that regard then I think The Cloudsong is already one step ahead. Go ahead and read it yourself."

Upon receiving the letter, Big Engelbert scanned it for a few seconds. It was short and concise, quite to the point. "What a timing, eh? I suppose we shall see what the near future holds." He passed it back to the elf with a mighty shrug, no hint of worry in his voice. "We'll be fine, my friend. We have faced worse before, did we not? Now, let us return to our employer. About time we depart."



Unlike most major cities in the continent, and despite the generic icon used in the map to indicate a capital city. Alkautsar wasn't a walled city, it was more like an urban sprawl with its spatial layout carefully planned. Ensuring that the city could sustain its own growth over centuries. The result was the newly built houses would be where the city limit was drawn. Having no wall, also allowed the city to have no shortage of open green space. Though there was a concern that the unwalled suburban could result in a poorly arranged layout, the elves seemed to possess a collective understanding of how to be orderly without needing a written law to dictate them.

Out of the proper city limit, and away from any bricked building, there was an encampment located in a semi-open field. The master of that encampment was an eccentric-looking elven man who completely rejected the idea of settling inside the city. When asked why, his answer was as follows:

"Why not? I have been to many places. Buildings and fancy masonry are not where my heart finds its peace. But here outside. It is such a waste of moments to return to my homeland but not immerse myself in its pristine meadows and feel nature's embrace up close."

Sighing as if to prepare himself for more zany exchanges, the masked Gray Flame greeted the aged elven, who currently sat next to a small elm tree, sipping tea and reading the book he himself had written decades prior.

"Morning! Morning! Finished your little stroll I assume?!" The man jumped up from his seat and beckoned the two to follow. Vesemir Barandir looked like your everyday uncle with an unassuming appearance. White-haired and blue-eyed, his lanky features hid a sheer energy that even juvenile elf couldn't rival. Always jovial and enthusiastic, the aged elf pursued knowledge like a rabid hound that camouflaged itself with an approachable if not silly casing; like, what kind of scholar wears a silky suit, monocle, and a top hat?!

"While you were out... or in there, I have asked Stepen to procure me three carriages for our small little trip. One carriage full of provisions we need from the start until we are back. What do you think? I am thinking about getting the second. Clever plan uh?"

The Gray Flame was ready to just shrug it off and let the man do whatever he wanted with his coins, but since he was asking for his opinion...

"I don't think we need that much. The land of Twilight is not a barren wasteland with no game animal to hunt. I am afraid adding extra burden may slow us down."

The aged elf adjusted his monocle before raising his index finger, as well as his husky voice, but just only slightly.

"A-a-a! Better to be excessive with your preparation! That's what I learned during our trip to exploration to Nubia. We lost five good men in that desert... what a shame. Anyway, that's an important part of the plan. Don't you agree Mr Engelbert?"

"Very much so, Ser Vesemir! As they used to say in the army, 'proper preparation prevents poor performance'. It is better to overdo it a little than come up short, is it not?"

The aged elf turned at the Gray Flame smugly.

"See! Now that's what I call smart! Besides, we will have more people on this journey than we planned earlier!"

"So the pamphlet did the trick huh." The masked elf glanced at Engelbert. Like him, he also had no idea what to expect from Vesemir's newly recruited lackeys-- ahem, travel companions. Able-bodied people, trustworthy and fair... back then the sheer naivety was both laughable and pity-inducing the masked elf couldn't decide how he should express himself.

"So where are they," he said, trying to entertain his boss with a slightly forced enthusiasm.

The boss, Vesemir Barandir just stood straight, head facing the road in front of them with both hands resting on his cane.

"They will be here soon. You'll see."

---

Standing in front of the Adventure Guild's job board stood an elf. She wasn't particularly known among the branches and cities, but enough could tell you she was a healer. She was known to take on jobs that involved beginners who needed someone to supervise or just extra help to get use to it. She also tended to take the collection jobs; as they were never really popular.

Today, she was standing in front of the board, flipping through the pamphlets that had been put sporadically on it. She looked up as she felt familiar cold metal against her arm. One of the local and recently turned friend of a muscle head leaning against her and looking over her shoulder. "Yikes! You're thinking of going there? Everyone knows it's suicide.." He looked to her, blinking brown eyes in his tanned skin faced. "Wait, you do know that.. right?"

She looked at him for a moment before her eyebrow rose and she couldn't stop the near laughter smile. "Yes, Damin. I know that. Thank you for the reminder." She looked back to the pamphlet, closing it and shrugging him off. "But, I can only imagine the type of hard headed and power hungry fools that join. Someone has to heal all their wounds." She patted his armored chest with the back of her hand and walked to the counter where the job attendants are.

She talked with the woman there briefly, simply stating anyone requesting her would need to be told she wasn't available until she got back. When asked where, the woman only gave her a look of pity. Roxas didn't really mind. She'd been around for a while.. New sights might do her good. Plus.. where the expedition was going.. she wanted to learn more behind it; since it was.. by all true words, the homeland of Elves.

Setting out didn't take her long; gathering supplies for the trip just to get to the meeting point. She had chosen a place away from Alkaustar for a reason. It had grown repetitive and boring as she grew up. So she explored until she had found this place. Now she was heading back to her hometown. She mumbled to herself as she packed her back; and then pulled it on, looking around her room. She already had some of the kids in the town coming over and cleaning it periodically and taking care of her plants and the birds.

She left in the night, not really tired and seemed to walk to her destination. She liked walking; it let you enjoy the scenery more. Plus, in a carriage she wouldn't be able to stretch and enjoy herself.


Down the road from Vesemir's camp, the soft sound of a flute could be heard. Strangely enough, it wasn't coming from within the city, but like it would be traveling to go to Alkaustar. As the sound drew closer, it was easy to discern why. A white-blonde elven woman was playing on a wooden flute, a charm dangling from the end; though not what it was from this distance. Drawing closer revealed she traveled light. A single pack with a bedroll attached to the top and a white longbow attached to the side. A quiver sat at her hip, another charm dangling from a loop on the side.

She looked around as she played, and seemed to make way for the encampment. Her sounds stopped as she saw Vesemir standing by the road in his encampment. She moved over to the trio, barely looking them over before looking to Vesemir and offering a smile as she slid her flute into a strap on the side of her pack. "I'm here for the expedition. I'm Roxas."

---

Before the crossing into Varenheim territory, Tillius had one person he wanted to visit. It so happened that he was in charge of the border.

"Ah, Tillius!" Emerged from the camp was a middle-aged man, with short black hair, in military uniform beneath a red finely-cut robe. "How long has it been? Five, six years?"

"Around that time, sir." The orc replied with reverence, but his tone of voice lightened.

"No need for formalities anymore, you're no longer my soldier. Call me Marcus." The officer, despite having known this orc for decades, was still at awe at the shadow he cast when he stood in front of the sun. Warmly, he invited the orc into his tent for some catch up.

"It's like a proper house in here." Tillius remarked, being gestured towards the desk in which Marcus would sit the opposite of, the seat of a guest versus the seat of power.

"Yes, if they have nothing better to do than sending us to this speck of rock to catch smugglers like spearing fishes in the shore, we better make this as comfortable of a stay as possible, otherwise they get lonely, restless, discontent." Marcus replied, adjusting his robe as he sat down. "That brings me to you...what are you doing here? I don't suppose you make all the trip here just to see me, do you? This cold little hellhole."

"No." Tillius replied. "I want a crossing into Varenheim."

"Ahh, hmmm." Marcus nodded slowly. "I suppose I should ask the purpose of your trip for the sake of paperwork, but I already know what you're going to do over there."

"If that is the case, then may I?" Tillius asked.

"Hmph, sure." Marcus approval, a little bit too quickly for Tillius's liking. "What, you want some money too?"

"Is that it? You're not going to inquire why an orc is going into elven territory, or even try to stop me?"

"Couldn't stop you from not abandoning Curio eight years ago, why do you think I can stop you now?" Marcus shrugged. "You do whatever you want over there, it's not my business to attend to personal matter."

"Then you can provide me the appropriate paper for the crossing." Tillius continued

"That will be done." Marcus said. "Also, if you're going into Varenheim, feel free to make use of your old gear. I can find you a spare if you don't have any. Let people know who you are."

His last parting word was vague, but if it was something he was lent for free, Tillius wasn't going to reject it. It was a trip to the Twilight land after all. Saved him a lot of money getting his own gear.

---

A few days passed and several long marches that wasn't necessarily out of the ordinary back when he was still in service, Tillius arrived at Vesemir's camp, where it was publicized they would be forming up. He seemed to be one of the earlier ones, or that there wasn't that many who heeded the call. Nevertheless, once he gave the man in question the travel papers and the poster he sent across the region to the Adventurer's Guild, they let him in.

He sat down by a tree, and seeing how he would just be waiting for other adventurers to arrive, Tillius sat down by a nearby tree to try and catch some quick 'Z', having to be vigilant of some wildlife and thus lacked adequate sleep the night before. It wasn't long until the sun intensified, and his sleep undermined, so he proceeded to use his large shield as a makeshift cover, letting it lean on him. From afar, it didn't seem like anyone was there, only a large chunk of metal board laid against an old tree.

---

The aged elf leaned forth, holding his cane behind his back, and enthusiastically offered a handshake. "Well meet my Dear Roxas! I am Vesemir Barandir. An archeologist, historian, and like you, an adventurer."

He twirled and beckoned to the entire encampment with his gloved palm. There were some chairs and a table under a young elm tree east side of the encampment. Next to it was a horseless carriage with a pair of passenger benches fitted on both sides facing each other, and something or someone seemed to be sitting against that tree; an orcish male desperately trying to continue his nap by shielding himself against the inevitable sunrise.

"Please make yourself comfortable!" Said the elven man again, now indicating at the boiling kettle on the small campfire in front of the seats. "Would you like a tea? Coffee perhaps? Don't mind Young Tillius over there, he is catching up on some sleep."

---

The elven woman looked to Vesemir more; letting her eyes scan as he beckoned further in. She didn't shake his hand, though it wasn't to be rude. She noted to giant shield, eyes averting to the caned elf as he told her it was an orc. A smile crossed her lips at that. Definitely someone who's seen battles..

She looked to the seats as she moved closer and shook her head. "Ah, no thank you. I don't drink or eat anything I haven't bought myself. General rule for me." She offered him another smile, not taking the seat. "I'll look around; maybe catch sleep myself. Walking for a week with little sleep tends to.. deprive one of it. I'll get the details with everyone else who shows up." She offered a wave to Vesemir and moved away from him.

Her walk around led her to the carriage with benches. She shucked off her bag, grabbing her bow and flute. She pulled the bow over her head to carry it, sliding the flute into her belt. She hummed as she looked around, eyes moving to the ground, and then raising to the sky. She was looking for wood or a bird. Glancing to the tree, led her to decide to try not to disturb the orc, so she walked past the tree, further away into the open field; picking up a loose branch next to the tree on the way. She sat down, sliding a dagger from the sheath at her back as well as laying the bow to sit at her side and started chopping at the branch, softly humming to herself still.

Rezello

---

As mid-morning arrived in the city of Alkuastar, the rising angle of the sun let a single beam of light break through the mostly-closed windows of an otherwise dark tavern room, landing upon a sleeping Rezello.

It's time.

His single uncovered eye opened as he awoke, throwing off the blanket he had been resting under and shifting his body until he was seated on the side of the bed.

"It's time."

Standing up, he made his way over to the window on the other side of the room and opened it completely, allowing the sunlight to fully illuminate his temporary lodgings. He gathered his things, donning his boots and brigandine before strapping the plate elements of his armor on over them.

You're certain about this?

"Absolutely."

Making his way downstairs, he stopped at the bar, dropping a few silver coins onto the countertop. "One last meal, and then I'll be closing my tab." After finishing his food and a final mug of beer, Rezello set out into the city, making his way towards the outskirts to reach Vesemir's camp. As he walked through the streets, he ignored the strange looks he received from some of those he passed. Instead, he let his thoughts turn to the first time he had set foot in Alkuastar, several years ago; it was the first major city he had visited on his ten-year journey, and in some ways it reminded him of Scheel before it had fallen into ruin.

Arriving at the field that the camp was situated in, it seemed he wouldn't be the first. Looking between those currently in the encampment, Vesemir's unusual choice in clothing caught Rezello's attention, and thus he chose to approach him. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but I take it you would be Vesemir," he started, giving a quick bow in greeting. "Name's Rezello. I'm here for the journey to Nuria."

---

As Nanashi had his master urn on his possession, the lone shinobi departed to the town into mainland's harbor. With enough fortune that had been inherited on him by Eiko, he have more than enough money to travel into his master birth place. Boarded into the ship and spent his travelling time on the sea nourishing himself every meal and watch the sea waves before he gets into sleep.

Upon arriving to the land. The shinobi was amazed how beautiful on the elven city. Discovering the culture of elven structure, the community and their cuisines. During that time he asked for directions until someone pointed him into Adventurer's Guild.

The lone shinobi entered the place, met up by the stares by the table dwellers and people who are inside the facility. Surely, people got have an attention to someone who ain't familiar appearance. Despite those tracking stares at him, the lone shinobi focused to walk ahead into the clerk. He asked about the place and the clerk gave them a hand aid into the board for the information. The shinobi went ahead the board to scrutinized the information with no one trying to approached him. With a reasonable time of reading the sign, he is not stopping and went straight to the exit and the silent moment filled back with a normal noises again.

Attained the map of the location with cost of price by the merchant who had been with him on the sailing time. Tracking down path line by walking. Did break when it was necessarily for rest and food and also made a stop for some landscape viewing. Arriving the entrance of Vesemir encampment.

Venezia, the bustling capital of Helvetia, a founder country of the Council of Nations; a veritable metropolis, Venezia served as the republic's central seat of government and largest settlement, where commerce, culture, and politics flowed in and out of its massive ports. Then, at the very heart of the city was the Palazzo Consolato, where the reigning Consul or Consulesa and their family resided.

Speaking of, Frederick Konstantin had been serving as Consul alongside his beloved wife, Consulesa Helena Konstantin, for a good few decades now. Known as the 'Auric Consul', Frederick was known far and wide throughout the continent and even beyond as a leader who brought his nation into a golden age. By building upon the foundations laid upon by his forefathers since five centuries back, the Auric Consul brought the republic to even greater heights. Whereas other nations were busy feuding with each other and crippling themselves through endless petty wars, Frederick - like his predecessors - deftly maintained peaceful stability for his people. As a result, it was inarguable that Helvetia is a shining beacon of progress, wealth, and peace amongst the sea of ignorance and hatred.

Perhaps this was why the red-haired Consul was blessed with many boons in his personal life, aside from his beautiful and shrewd wife, he also sired five children, all of them bright lads and lasses. However, even amongst them, one stood above the rest, his youngest, Lady Evelyn Theophania Konstantin or, more casually, Eve. At only twelve summers old, Eve had already proven herself to be the brightest mind Helvetia had ever seen since recent decades, and considering the republic's de facto status as the world's leading nation in technological progress and higher learning, it was quite an achievement indeed. The Young Mistress' hunger for knowledge was insatiable and though she might still be considered a child, she already had massive ambitions and goals to pursue, and one such goal happened to involve the ancient and mysterious Land of Twilight.

As of the moment, the youngest of the Konstantins was in her personal study, performing final checks on the things she'd bring for the long trip ahead, most especially her self-defense equipment. "Alba Dorata, durability... optimal, photon edge circuits... functional," The young redhead murmured to herself as her keen mind studied her self-made artifact, "Schwarzerblitz, mechanisms... zero complications, crystal cartridge supply... adequate." Meanwhile, her parents - the Consul and Consulesa - were in the room with her, watching their excitable daughter. The former boasted a proud smirk while the latter was less than thrilled at the prospect.

"Are you sure about this, love?" The goldilocks Consulesa whispered an inquiry to her husband, a not-so-subtle worried frown on her blue-eyed visage.

"It'll be fine, love," The carmine-haired Consul replied in an equally low voice, adding a short reassuring chuckle, "After all, I've already arranged for him to serve as Eve's escort, something he may or may not yet already know, but will discover very soon regardless.."

"Oh?" Helena's concerned frown slowly shifted into a mix of relief and curiosity, "If I may ask, who is this... 'he', Frederick?"

"Ah, just an old colleague of mine," Frederick's confident smirk never relented, "Unfortunately, he prefers to keep as low of a profile as possible and as a colleague, I aim to respect his wishes, regardless, all you need to know that he's more than capable, our daughter will be in good hands."
..........
.....
...

Some time later...



Unlike some of the other applicants who might have stumbled their way to the staging grounds, Evelyn moved with purpose as she trekked her way to the outskirts of the city, heading directly to Sir Vesemir Barandir's encampment. Along the way, the young artificer prodigy - with her doubtlessly noble apparel, eye-catching carmine locks, and bright amethyst irises - certainly attracted the gaze of more than a few onlookers, inflicting various emotions upon the people of the city; curiosity, bewilderment, surprise, and concern being a few examples. However, the subject herself had no time to be humoring them, for she was on a quest of utmost importance!

Eventually, the Konstantin scion arrived at the designated place, a rather large camp with three parked carriages, but the best proof that she was in the right place was the presence of a white-haired, blue-eyed, and lanky senior elf wearing distinctive apparel, an aura of exuberance oozing from him despite his apparent age. Oh my, indeed, it's as father said, one look and you won't mistake him for anyone else. The one and only Vesemir Barandir, plus other individuals who were most likely her fellow would-be adventurers. Splendid.

Curling a confident smile, Evelyn sauntered over to enter the camp's vicinity proper, "I see health and fortune remain by your side always, Sir Barandir," the redhead announced her presence with a greeting, "I trust you've heard of me, we (the Konstantins) have sent a correspondence to you beforehand," Eve made a deliberate pause as began curtsying with all the peerless elegance only those born and raised in nobility could muster, "Evelyn Theophania Konstantin, at your service." before proceeding to straighten herself, even as her eyes began scanning those who had arrived before her.

First, there was the famous wandering knight, Sir Engelbert the Fearless (allegedly), clad in his armor as usual, the plated warrior never seemed to remove them under any circumstances anyway. Well, if the knight of stellar repute was among Vesemir's band, things were looking swell already.

Second, a platinum-blonde Elven woman wearing earthen-colored clothing, an archer judging from her equipment and going by the presence of a flute among her belongings, also the one responsible for the beautiful melodies Evelyn heard moments before her arrival.

Third, a mighty Greenskin fighter bearing a shield almost as large as he was, though he was with them in body, his mind was somewhere else, hopefully he was having a pleasant dream.

Fourth, another imposingly tall heavily-armored knight, clad in leaf green tapestries, although unlike Sir Engelbert, there was something... unusual about the dark-haired young man. It was as if he was less wearing his armor and it looked more... fused to his skin, at least it seemed that way for his mask-like helmet.

Fifth, a swordsman who looked quite foreign, exotic even, what's with him looking like a vagrant and a warrior simultaneously. An exile from his homeland, perhaps? At least Eve thought so, considering everything about him appeared to be worn down by endless travel.

Curious individuals, the lot of them, all strangers yet the artificer prodigy was sure she'd get to know them in due time, but for now, she had an acquaintance to speak to...

And then, last but definitely not least, ...him; the ashen-white hair, fair complexion, elven ears, and - ironically enough due to its intended function - most distinctive of all, the eerie white mask. Yes, just as Vesemir was, there was no mistaking this Elven fellow. He was none other than the Gray Flame himself, "To think I almost missed you amongst this eccentric party we find ourselves in, Sir Gray Flame," Evelyn flashed a grin as she nonchalantly approached the man twenty four decades her senior, "It's an honor, and considering we'll be relying on each other for the journey ahead, pleasure both." Apparently, he and her father had history, the good kind, well, time to see if he was as capable as papa said he was.

"And the same sentiment goes to all of you as well, fellow adventurers." Evelyn declared to the group in general to finish her introduction.

@Mas Bagus @A5G @Visyn @Conscripts @Valkon @Louise Ironside

---

Carnatia scooped the last of her breakfast into her mouth, before wiping her mouth with a napkin. Each gesture was meticulous and deliberate in their graceful mannerism, something that betrayed her noble background despite her insistence on being 'a mere adventurer'.

She then smiled in delight, before her lips curved downwards in a small frown at some disappointment at the fact that it would probably be a while until she could sample such a delicious dish. Indeed, the Herb-Infused Morgia Jewels Pilaf with Saffron-Buttered Basmati Rice was just the treat she needed before she departed on the expedition to the Land of Twilight. Her stay in the most luxurious inn in town was costly, but well worth it. She...probably spent more money than she should have given that she could stayed at a cheaper inn, but alas, that was simply how things are.

She sighed, as she tried to justify her poor financial choices tactical financial choices.

'I-It's not as if I'm some sort of out-of-touch highborn. But as a former daughter of a Duke, my taste simply can't be helped. Were I to force myself to stay at a cheaper inn, I wouldn't be able to relax and recuperate as well, thus possibly turning in suboptimal performance on the expedition. Indeed. Verily! 'Tis all more for pragmatism absolutely not merely because I am a former noble. Not...entirely at the very least,' she thought, trying to convince herself more than anything.

Having settled things in her mind, Carnatia paid the last of what she owed to the proprietor, before heading out to the stable to get her horse. Between the inn and the new horse, Carnatia had but a paltry sum of money remaining. She did have a horse previously, but...she had sold it to make ends meet just before her last job. She could probably make do were she to rent a room at a cheaper inn, but once more, she's avoiding turning in suboptimal performance. Yes, purely pragmatism. Most definitely.

It's not as if she could not camp. As an adventurer, being able to camp was a necessity—though she had to admit she had no idea how to even begin camping before meeting her old master, the wandering Monk Tokimune—but really, should the chance arrive Carnatia would most definitely recuperate in luxury. It's really nothing different from some adventurer who likes to gamble in their downtime or go to the massage parlour or what have you. It was her money at the end of the day. Furthermore, as she would insist over and over again. There was a dimension of pragmatism here.

Getting on her horse, Carnatia held reins in her hands before starting to head to the rendezvous point. Before long, she reached the encampment outside the city limit.

She looked around for a bit, noticing that several individuals had arrived, before moving toward her employer, Vesemir Barandir, who had been referred to her by her Eldest Brother, Rodrigue de Luson. They had some contact via letters thanks to Rodrigue's introductory letter, but this would be the first time they met.

As such, for the moment, Vesemir was supposed to be the only one who had known that she hailed from a Duke household of Westernant. And she would like to keep it that way, for as long as possible anyway.

"Good day. Apologies for my slight tardiness. I am Carnatia, pleased to have formally made your acquaintance at last."

Forbann Spiser

He wondered how he did it before, while he was in the army. Marching day after day. and to top it all off, he didn’t bring anything with him in his haste to escape. So now his feet were sore, he was hungry and sleeping on the dirt was starting to become easier, which he wasn’t sure was a good thing.

As he trudged along, the sun shining above and mildly cooking him inside his armor, he saw a commotion further ahead. A cart,tilted on the side of the road,a mule beside it and a man imprecating and a woman weeping.

They were so caught up that they didn’t even notice him closing in. After the tension most Humans feel whenever they interact with him, they told him of how something scared their mule, making it freak out and tilt the cart in its panic.

While the mule was calm now, the cart was far too heavy to put upright, and now they were stuck in the middle of nowhere, the closest city was days from there on foot.

Well, Forbann couldn’t help but feel for the couple. Helping them wasn’t too much of a bother,being an Oni does come with its advantages afterall, and in their gratitude, they offered to transport him to the next city over. Forbann’s sore feet were accepted, of course.

Over the journey, Forbann learned that the couple was going to join a caravan going to Valenheim, and when he confessed he was headed there too, the couple was quick to suggest to him to take up a job as a caravan guard,at least for the length of the journey. They could even put in a good word with the Caravan master.

---

Guarding the caravan wasn’t that hard, as except for one weak attempt by some bandits, the journey went smoothly. The caravan master was even cordial enough to point him where he should go to get to the rendezvous point.

Talking about it, it seemed that Vesemir was a fan of the outdoors as instead of finding himself at an inn or estate, he was faced with a camp outside the city.

Letting himself in, so to speak, he noticed that he wasn’t the first to arrive.

An orc taking the chance to sleep, an elf humming and carving, a strangely stoic human, an armored figure and a masked one together, and a man with half a goblin mask was talking to an elf that dresses as a stereotypical rich person.

And in the middle of it, a red-headed noble-looking child was seemingly speaking

.
"And the same sentiment goes to all of you as well, fellow adventurers." Evelyn declared to the group in general to finish her introduction.

Though he only heard the last part, he gathered that she too, was part of the expedition.
He wondered why though. The twilight land was no place for children, so she must have some reason beyond her. Maybe she escaped her noble family or something? No matter

“Well met. I’m right in assuming this is the Expedition rendezvous? If so, i’m Forbann Spiser and may we help each other in the Journey Ahead”

---

True to his words, suddenly there were already several people made their way to their humble playground. And after warmly welcoming the elven lady into the fold (and getting a rather cold response in return), Veseimr had already in the middle of accepting another attaché. This time a strange-looking human male wearing a broken goblin mask.

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but I take it you would be Vesemir,"

'In the flesh! The one and only!" said the aged elf while the man greeted him and bowed.

"Name's Rezello. I'm here for the journey to Nuria."

The archeologist opened his mouth in an unmistakable amazement. "Oh ho-ho. Now that's the spirit! I like a young man with a clear goal such as you. Let me introduce you to our Navigator, and fellow ruin enthusiast. This is Mr Gray Flame, and this one is Mr Engelbert"

Beaming as he guided Rozello toward the masked duo, The Gray Flame already felt that this journey would be amusing.

"Wassup!" he regarded the masked human and tapped his white mask, indicating their distinguishable characteristic. "Welcome to the club."

Because of the sudden influx of people signing up for the journey, Vesimir had left the trio to do his welcoming meet and greet. Next was a seemingly worn-out foreigner, who immediately explained to Vesemir that he was on a personal quest and would like to tag along. Another one came, riding a horse. A young lady with a certain degree of aristocratic air about her. Unsurprisingly, both she and Vesemir acted like they had known each other for quite a while.

Or maybe it was just the eccentric elf's usual antics? Who knows...

There were already some trivial conversations started between the trio until The Gray Flame's watchful eyes caught a glimpse of another redhead, and Vesemir himself doing a bow too deep for an elven standard. Their conversation could be faintly heard

"It is a great honor to have with us. Young Lady Evelyn. I hope both of us can benefit greatly from this journey to enlightenment."

Not sure how many moments passed after that. The petite young lady was already in front of him now after just a few blinks

"To think I almost missed you amongst this eccentric party we find ourselves in, Sir Gray Flame," "It's an honor, and considering we'll be relying on each other for the journey ahead, pleasure both."

The masked elf was left agape. So dumbfounded he couldn't form any sentence to respond. She? Here? And to *there*? Of all places?

"What the hell that fool Konstantin was thinking about? I thought he was sending one of his Aides! I swear those nobles, elves or humans are equally reckless!

Stuck between trying to force out a few harsh words that thankfully didn't manage to sound past his throat, and a strong feeling to add Konstantin after Adnan to his personal curse-list. The white mask managed to regard the young lady appropriately by saying:

"It is... err honor too. I will be in your care now."

That was the best he could muster. Hell, he might add a smile if he could show it. A teenager like her didn't know any better, it was us, the adults who should have practiced a wiser way of thinking.

"And the same sentiment goes to all of you as well, fellow adventurers."

Said Evelyn, but the Gray Flame had moved toward his boss. Whispering what sounded like a suppressed admonishment.

"Sir Barandir, are we really going to allow her into the group? Obviously there is a mistake or trickery at play here."

Glancing one second at the 12-year-old. The Gray Flame didn't rule out the possibility that this unfortunate and confusing situation was the result of 'her' own doing. Oh yes, he knows what she was capable of, and at some point was impressed by it.

"I must admit I was surprised myself. But what's the problem? It was commendable that a lady of such a young age is interested in this dream project of mine. Such enthusiasm is rare, Mr Gray Flame! Who are we thinking we deserve to snuff out such a noble passion?"

"But the journey is dangerous."

Politely excusing himself from the person he was currently talking to, the aged elf squared his shoulders to face Gray Flame. There were angry glints in his eyes as he spoke.

"I've been to many voyages I believe no less dangerous than this. Mr Gray, and this miscommunication will not be corrected. Because there is nothing to be corrected. She will go with us, and that's final."

Biting his lips-under-the-mask, The Gray flame nodded and retreated, one rule in this line of business was to not debate your client.
Besides, he had done his share to appear rather convincing.

Returning to Evelyn, the masked elven man sighed before initiating a casual conversation. "How was your dad?"

---

Roxas has laid down at some point, but turned he body slightly to see that more people had joined the encampment. She finally stood up, dusting herself from her carving session, grabbing her bow and moved past the tree and Tillius. Her eyes drawn to his shield once again. She gave a small smile to herself, moving to her bag and grabbing a leather wrap.

The elven healer found herself standing Tillius and his shield. Her eyes scanned it as quickly as she could, taking in the details before she plopped herself against the tree; but not in the way of trying to disturb him, perhaps on the other side of the tree from him. She opened the wrap, revealing more intricate tools and grabbed one, starting to carve out the shape of a shield form the block she had made from the fallen branch.

As she carved into the wood now, she pulled at her magic; letting the charm on her quiver pull it into her mana system to let her use it. Soft swirls and tendrils of silver with flecks of amber starting to whish and gently lap at her as she carved; it looked almost ethereal.

---

Soldiers being soldiers, Tillius never really fell into deep sleep if he is not on a comfy bed, albeit he learned to tune out the casual chatters of others in the distance. However, the sound of carving behind him was too strange for him to not be alarmed. His red eyes shot open, holding onto his shield to stand up. He was ready to unsheathe his sword as well, but held back his instinct until he learned who or what this was. This was no longer a battlefield against rebels after all.

To his maybe surprise, maybe confusion, maybe relief, maybe a combination of all three, it was just an elf carving something. His alerted posture relaxed considerably, as he let out his breathe. And in case he had caused any unpleasant surprises, he held up a palm in apologies, and/or to show that he didn't mean any harm.

"Are you one of Vesemir's people?" He asked the elf, retracted his palm, and stepped out from the trees, revealing himself fully.

@Visyn

---

Roxas frowned as she now had a shadow on her work from the sun. "Oh, you're blocking the su...uunn.." Her gaze moved up, and continued until she was leaning back on her hand to see Tillius' face. She sat like that for a moment, before giving a wide smile and laughing softly. She stood, dusting herself. Her silvery magic all but lost now. She looked up to him, giving him a smile still. "You are.." She covered her mouth with her hand for a moment.

"Definitely taller than I thought you looked.." She strained a little, looking to him; barely reaching up to his chest in the first place. She couldn't help the little laugh that escaped before she waved him down a little, hoping he would comply so she didn't have to strain her neck anymore. "Here. This is for you." She held out the piece she had just been working on. It was a to-the-tee wooden sculpt of his shield with all the dings and scratches on it, the only added thing was the beautiful carved flower in the middle.

@Conscripts

---

The lone shinobi went straight on the nearby grass field to lay down flat as the Task Master accepted him to tag along. Resting his whole body on the comfortable grassy platform, staring on the sky. Canvasing his master wishlist on his head.

The first one. She wanted a rice field on her birth place.

Why?

He rose up his upper body and scratching, perhaps if she was still and with him and do all her plans, it might go work. But right now he was just all alone. The only he can do the favor is to release her ashes on the heart part of the birth land.

The shinobi decided to stroll around the camp.

Rezello

---

"Oh ho-ho. Now that's the spirit! I like a young man with a clear goal such as you. Let me introduce you to our Navigator, and fellow ruin enthusiast. This is Mr Gray Flame, and this one is Mr Engelbert"

Rezello turned to the two, one heavily armored in a distinctive suit of full plate and the other garbed in a mask and clothes suited to an adventurer who relied more on their dexterity and perception - and perhaps a bit of magic - to protect them than what they wore. Engelbert and Gray Flame; names that carried with them substantial reputations, and which Rezello immediately recognized. Given the latter's history of traveling into the Twilight Lands and returning unbroken, it was hardly surprising that he was present for the expedition.

"Wassup!" he regarded the masked human and tapped his white mask, indicating their distinguishable characteristic. "Welcome to the club."

Rezello gave a nod as the elf tapped his mask. "A pleasure to meet you both, Gray Flame. Engelbert. Always good to be working with veteran adventurers."

Soon after their introductions, more adventurers began to arrive. The first, a young girl with hair and clothes of scarlet. A member of high nobility, by the looks of it. That one so young would be joining them on the expedition took Rezello by surprise, and it evidently had upset Gray Flame, who had moved to speak with Vesemir on the matter in hushed tones. Though he didn't catch what they were saying to one another, it was evident by the end result of their conversation that the girl - Evelyn, by her introduction - would, in fact, remain a member of the growing party.

Well, this is an interesting development, isn't it? Who knew adventurers were starting so young nowadays.

Ignoring the voice in his mind, he watched as another adventurer arrived. A young woman, also with a head of long red hair, though it seemed to shift to orange along its length. Dressed in clothes in equal measures protective and ornate, the way she carried herself made it clear that she too was, or at least had previously been, a member of nobility. Of what nation or family, however, was unknown to Rezello; he hadn't concerned himself with the general affairs of the nobility since the fall of Scheel - and even before then, he paid little mind to those beyond the city - thus her name indicated nothing to him.

Around the same time, another individual entered the camp - what appeared to be a massive man, too tall to be a human or elf, encased in a threatening-looking suit of heavy plate armor. Another wandering knight, perhaps; a welcome addition against whatever perils they may face on their journey.

Meanwhile, in the rest of the camp, it seemed that the sleeping orc had awoken and was now conversing with the elven woman who had arrived shortly before Rezello. Additionally, a fairly out-of-place looking man was walking around the camp; whether he was another new arrival or if he had simply evaded Rezello's sight up until now, he could not tell.

Oh my~? What an interesting turn of events. At first, Evelyn believed that she was the last to arrive, but she was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong. Two more interesting individuals made their presence known; the first one was an armored swordswoman riding a steed, a fellow human who shared a nearly identical hair color and style as herself, albeit her locks had an orange ombre to them and she sported amber irises instead. She was... gorgeous, for a lack of better words, at least Evelyn believed so. Little did the young girl know, she admired her father so much that she became subconsciously partial to people sharing his traits, and the warrioress who just introduced herself as Carnatia definitely qualified as one, small differences in detail aside. As such, without even realizing it, Eve found herself not-so-subtly staring at the exiled noble...

"...-eh?" Fortunately for her noblesse oblige reputation, the other new arrivals broke her out of her trance by introducing himself. An absolutely massive specimen of an armored knight, towering above even Engelbert and Tillius, the de facto tallest member of the group. Eve had to crane her neck up as high as she could go just to even gaze at his collarbone area. Like Engelbert, she couldn't see much due to Forban's full armor, but he most likely wasn't human, nor elven, one of the Djinn races, perhaps? Nevertheless, he appeared to be a cordial fellow, well, as expected from Vesemir, the entrepreneur explorer was eccentric, but not stupid, "Indeed you are, Sir Spiser, please make yourself at home." Evelyn gestured toward the encampment, taking the initiative to invite the gentle giant into the group.

As for the Gray Flame, due to the convenience of having confidential information courtesy of her father, Evelyn found his reactions to her presence to be... within expectations. After all, the only one guaranteed to know she's coming was Vesemir, while the masked elf was up for debate. However, judging from this turn of events, it was safe to conclude that Gray wasn't informed beforehand, or at least not the whole picture. Fufu~ She found the result to be quite amusing. Soon enough, they finished bickering with victory firmly in the hands of the monocled elf.

By the time Gray returned to her, Evelyn was already wearing a small, subtle, yet noticeably sly smirk. A single expression that spoke a thousand words, a facial gesture that basically said "It's all proceeding according to my plan~". Out of all the possible questions he'd ask her, inquiring about her father was among the most expected, very well, she shall humor him, after all, they're old friends, "Father dearest is doing well, Sir Gray, thank you for your concern. To add, the same can be said for mother and my brothers and sisters as well," After a short pause, Eve coyly clasped her hands behind her back as she leaned forward ever so slightly, "Do forgive my presumptuousness, but if you're worried for my well-being, please don't. I'm very much capable of taking care of myself."

To give proof to her claim, Evelyn brandished her enchanted rapier from its scabbard, then began performing deft swordplay, showing off the results of her training, her performance further augmented by her equally-enchanted dress. She then finished off with a flourish, the tip of her sword ending up being pointed toward Gray's collarbone, "And this is but a small sample of what I can do, Sir Gray."

@Mas Bagus @Deide @Randomguy

---

"Ah glad to hear that..."

Inevitably, the Gray Flame's somewhat casual response drowned in the sheer eagerness to prove oneself. Sword, thin and swift was drawn, stance guarded. While The Gray flame stood there unmoving. Listening, judging, and assessing. How long was the last time he met her? Ah, 3 years ago that felt like just yesterday. A bratty child she was with a lot of things to say and show off, with a father that ceaselessly fed that ambition of hers.

So he let her do her things. Swings here, and swish there, twirl one and pirouettes two, and all wrapped up nicely with a somewhat brazen sword-pointing against his neck.

Then it was over. She smiled, smugly proclaiming that this was but a small sample of what she could do. Of course, he didn't dispute that.

"Good job," he said that instead, adding a small amount of enthusiasm into his voice to let the girl savor her undisputed triumphant moment. Her big and round purplish eyes glanced at him and felt like angling for 'buts' and 'however' commentary. Sadly the Gray Flame has none.

But he will remember this. Like any other important things that might be useful for later.

Forbann Spiser

---

"Indeed you are, Sir Spiser, please make yourself at home." Evelyn gestured toward the encampment, taking the initiative to invite the gentle giant into the group.

"Many thanks" He nodded to the red-headed child, and fully entered the camp. Looking around,he found a stump that looked tough enough to hold his weight, and sat himself.

Just as he was about to entretain himself with his Ferrokinesis, the masked elf came back to the now very snarky-looking child.

"Do forgive my presumptuousness, but if you're worried for my well-being, please don't. I'm very much capable of taking care of myself."

To give proof to her claim, Evelyn brandished her enchanted rapier from its scabbard, then began performing deft swordplay, showing off the results of her training, her performance further augmented by her equally-enchanted dress. She then finished off with a flourish, the tip of her sword ending up being pointed toward Gray's collarbone, "And this is but a small sample of what I can do, Sir Gray."

Her skill with the blade seemed adequate enough, even if the technique themselves were far too fancy,more akin to dueling moves.
What was noteworthy though, was that a child had such skills. Is she one of those fabled prodigies?

"Your skill are quite good for one so young!" He praised, Clapping his hands, the gauntlets Clinking togheter,but he soon continued, his first thought about her presence still in his mind.

"Though, if you'd humor me, why did you join the expedition? From what i gathered, the Twilight Lands are one of the most dangerous places a person can find itself in, so you must have strong reasons to adventure there" and to help cut any anxiouness that this question might bring the young Lady, and to sprone her, he revealed his own reason.

"I myself are here on a...Vacation so to speak. I never left my homeland,you see, and with all the problems brewing there, i though a change of pace was what was needed. And this job gave me both an excuse to leave and brough me to a place that,if nothing else, should be exciting to be in and were my homeland problems can't reach me."

He had initially thought that Vesemir's overly idealistic recruitment ad was a failure, but turns out most of the prospective hires are cutting it close. Within an hour of the stipulated departure time the prospective hires appeared one by one, turning the rather sad display of three escorts into a respectable squad well over thrice the number. Engelbert had to admit that he was almost worried for a moment.

He knew Tillius who had arrived earlier, currently napping. There's the other elf that goes by Roxas, who disappeared to the side after the introduction. Quite the introvert, that one. Next up was a man with a grinning mask seemingly welded to his face, followed by a foreigner that didn't even say anything but seems to be sticking around regardless. And then there's the two noble ladies that looked similar enough to be related, though they didn't act like it. And finally, a huge mass of muscle and metal that somehow moved in near-total silence.

It's certainly novel to have to look up to meet someone face to face.

Rezello gave a nod as the elf tapped his mask. "A pleasure to meet you both, Gray Flame. Engelbert. Always good to be working with veteran adventurers."

"Well met, mister Rezello! Likewise, looking forward to working with you." He offered a nod, though his attention was immediately taken up by the little performance between what must be the oldest and youngest of the group. Engelbert nodded appreciatively at the swordplay, the transition flowing smoothly from one move to another. Very much a textbook duelist, but admirable for one so young. It ends with the rapier stopping a hair's breadth away from the elf, eliciting a rumbling laughter from the knight.

"A fine display, Lady Evelyn!" He clapped rather enthusiastically, gaze falling upon the rightfully exasperated elf. Another bout of laughter echoed through the clearing, the heavy baritone less human and more like an imminent landslide, a gauntlet-clad hand firmly patting the Gray Flame in the back. "She certainly showed you who's the boss, old friend."

Behind that white mask came a soft groan. "I think one boss is enough already." he said, indicating at Vesemir who were now talking with his quartermaster Stepen and someone else. Another stray adventurer joining in? No... certainly not, it was a Varenheim official who arrived with him at some point of the time. The conversation seemed quite argumentative, but resolved rather quickly afterwards.

Not even bothered to bid the leaving official a farewell, the midle-aged Vesemir strode toward them. The archeologist's lips twitched, his gloved hand ballled. He didn't look very happy, but was quick to regain his composure.

"Is there something wrong?" Gray Flame asked. The archeologist waved his hand in the general direction of the departing official, clearly disgruntled about the short chat.

"Just those pesky officials whining about our little campsite having more people than what it allowed to. Hurting local lodging business and blah-blah. They demanded us to leave for causing public inconvinence. Can't you believe it? Home doesn't feel like home anymore."

"Policing public gathering now? I'll never understand elven laws. But home is not just a place, aye? It is the memory, the state of mind you associate with the physical location." Engelbert quipped with a shrug, craning his neck to glance at the sun's position. "Regardless, I believe we are scheduled to depart soon enough so we'll be out of his hair soon enough... unless we're still waiting for someone, Ser Vesemir?"

"Come to think of it, you are right." he turned, placing his hands behind his back and breathed the fresh air audibly. "Perhaps the true home lies beyond the dense forest and old ruins. Very well, there is no point for us to dally any longer."

With a renewed spring in his steps, the eccentric elf strode to the middle of the camp and loudly clapped until the din of conversation faded and all attention focused on him. His eyes swiveled around, letting the silence build up for a few seconds before breaking into the speech.

"Everyone, may I have your undivided attention for a moment?! First I want to say thank you for coming. It is an honor to see this much enthusiasm, and I say we are off to a good start already. This expedition will be dangerous true, and some say we are delving into a bleak road of no return. But dangers and comforts are less important than the truth that awaits to be uncovered. Let the fools remain stagnant, idly descend as history drags them. Lifeless, eroded, like pebbles become sand. We choose to be different. Forerunners we are, aglitter are our deeds. Whatever happen, soon the latecomers will seek our vestiges! That will be all, let us depart this place." The archaeologist's fiery spirits was in full view now, each words uttered with the conviction of someone that truly believed in it. Engelbert clapped from his corner as the camp truly came to life, the caravan hands dismantling the camp and loading it into the carts at a speed that belied years of experience.

Within a short moment, none remained in the clearings as the expedition party ponderously trundled through an increasingly overgrown road. Whether they'll emerge back from the expedition or forever lay in the depth of the wilderness, only time will tell.

But for now, Nuria awaits.