[IC] St. Sappho Academy, Medieval Magic Academy (Invite Only)

[Rune_Alchemist]

Katherine & Meowka

---

As Katherine and her servant walked down the hallway, they would find it mostly to be empty. A few large windows gave them view into the courtyard, giving them view of the Chimaera and Maoin inside of it, though the two didn't immediately seem to notice Katherine and Meowka. The chimaera was too focused on the doll in front of her and Maoin seemed like she was about to pass out still. At the other end of the hallway, the it split off towards the left, likely meeting up with the area blocked off by rubble back at the entrance of the castle. There was another staircase that led upwards at the other end of it.

For the most part, this section of the castle didn't appear too different than any of the other places they had already seen by the party.

Miren & Eith

---

Miren followed Katherine back up to the previous hallway with Eith in tow, glad to get out of the dusty dungeons. She'd need some time to go over the book and find out what exactly the problem with, but with Livia and Katherine's help it should be easy to undo whatever it was had happened to Eith.

"A-ah? I'll see you back at the castle's entrance, then..." Miren said. "W-we'll start setting up camp and I'll start reading this book. Might take a few days to full translate, though." Miren started hopping off in the direction of the camp, motioning for Eith to follow. Unless Eith wanted to go somewhere else of course, they would make it back without any more incidents. Once they arrived, Miren would go about setting up camp a bit until all the others arrived before she started making dinner for everyone. Hopefully Maoin would return soon - the kitten could help with that.

Maoin

---

"Hm...is that so?" The Chimaera said with a hum. "It sounds as though you do not approve of this...companion." Not her place to say anything else, though. Angering the dragon would be a bad idea. She might be the strongest thing in the forests, but something like a dragon was beyond her abilities, especially a storm drake. So instead she'd let the kitten fall asleep, if a little. She wasn't an ungracious host...usually, as long as there weren't things scurrying about in her home.

Her ears easily picked up something moving in the grass. Something small and furtive, like a rodent. The chimaera turned her gaze towards the source of the noise, and was greeted with a small....human thing? The chimaera approached slowly as her tail jabbed Maoin unceremoniously in the side again.

"...House pet, is this your...thing?" She asked kneeling in front of the doll and snatching it up, holding its hand with one of her claws and letting it dangle freely as she gave it a little shake.

Luna, Marie, Sorcha, and Sol

---

The serpent hissed, its long, sinuous body contorting out of the way of the javelin, though unable to completely avoid the blow as the spear of light grazed its neck just under its head. If Luna had followed it up with another attack, there was a good chance she could have gotten a decent hit in. In one fluid motion, it lunged forward towards Luna, its maw aimed towards swallowing her entire body as flames licked the edges of its mouth.

Marie took a few steps back from the fight, frowning as Luna challenged the creature. Gah, if she had her arsenal she could easily handle this damned thing...but without it she was nothing more than a liability. It infuriated her. Damn it, if she even had just a normal sword she could do something with it, but she didn't even have such a pathetic weapon.

Sorcha continued to watch from the roof, glancing up at Sol.

"Luna seems to attract quite a bit of adventure, heh..." The dragon chuckled before taking a more serious look at the battle. She had confidence in Luna's abilities, but there was an obvious disadvantage the knight had. One was the fact that even if the Wyrm was a lesser species of dragon, it was still a formidable opponent with its more serpent like body, it was the most agile of the dragons. Then there was the fact Marie was down there. All dragons, even the lesser species were cunning and intelligent. It had likely singled out Marie because she was the least threatening and the easiest target to take out first.

If they weren't careful, if Marie couldn't defend herself she was going to likely get hurt.

Not that the dragon particularly cared about the demons well being after what she had done to Maoin.

[Roleplayer001]

As the creature predicted soon after the conversation came to an end and her mind was no longer occupied, the kitten returned to their cat nap. Unfortunately for the exhausted girl it would once again be interrupted by the snake-tail-thingy. Her eyes opened slowly as she addressed the creature's most recent interest - one of Katherine's dolls.

Maoin may not be a fan of her familiar, but Miss Katherine was a nice enough lady. Since she could communicate through these things, perhaps she could send a message? It'd likely answer the creature's question anyways. The cat pointed at the doll and shook her head. "No ... it belongs to a friend." At that, the girl began to speak as clearly as her shallow breathing would let her. "K-Katherine. Sh-She's friendly. Can you get my mistress? I'm not in a condition to ..." The kitten took a few breaths without speaking, trying to collect herself once again. "... to move very far. Please?" Hopefully that didn't sound too desperate, and hopefully the message would arrive intact.

The girl let herself lay on her side once again, ready to respond if she needed to and trying desperately to stay awake and see if there was any sort of return message.

Meowka's confident smirk died quickly as suddenly she felt her neck being jerked forward. The cat's eyes widened. S-she wasn't being serious about leaving her here. Right? At her hesitation though she felt herself being tugged along by the puppeteer and felt relieved, excited, and concerned at the same time.

Aside from a few token resistances Meowka let herself be led along by her collar silently up the staircase. Aside from a helpless, quiet, and involuntary whimper as they passed by the dog - Meowka didn't say a word.

She- she wasn't angry with her, right? Had she done something wrong? She felt like a sitting duck being walked along next to the woman, and her eyes continuously looked around the corridor to spot any threats.

The cat scowled and stopped for a moment to stare at her damned littermate but once again went silent as the collar in front of her was tugged on once again by the archwizard. When the archwizard finally paused in front of the staircase Meowka finally spoke. "You gonna let go - right?" The cat let out a giggle that tried to sound somewhat confident but utterly failed at it. And besides, due to their bond Katherine would be able to read her emotions anyways. "I mean, your hand must be tired?"

That was a good reason, right?

[Pyromania99]

Lunalel Lightsword

As the creature launched itself again, Luna knew this was her chance. Luna chanted and created a shield behind her. She quickly dodged out of the way as it rammed into the barrier. It cracked greatly, but held albeit barely. This gave Luna enough time to land a hit at it's head. A heavy overhand strike. After, she had time to pull back her weapon and give another strike to the side of the thing's head. "Hey, Marie. Have you figured out that riddle yet?" Luna gave a short chant again and her weapon changed back into a greatsword. She didn't really have time to get another strike in, but she was prepared for the creatures next... If it wasn't too tired yet. "Or do you know this thing's weak point?"

Katherine Lindall

"Take it easy for a little bit Meowka, ok?" Katherine said as she released Meowka's collar. "You probably aren't going to like this much, but you're a strong girl right?" With that, the puppeteer opened the nearby window that the Chimera and Maoin were visible from. She cleared her voice a bit to talk over to them. "Hey there gorgeous, mind letting my little sweetie there in your claws go? I'm Katherine and these dolls are like my children and a sort of extension of myself." She asked and informed as she summoned some of her dolls to the ground in the courtyard and they walked over to Maoin. "I'll have my dolls carry the girl out if you'd be so kind as to guide them. We can give you a good meal if you help, maybe let me look over your body too." The woman teased a bit, but they could feed another mouth couldn't they?

[Rune_Alchemist]

Maoin, Chimaera, Meowka, Kathernie

---

The Chimaera's ears perked at the new voice, standing and immediately turning to the source of the voice. Unfortunately for the doll in her claws, this equaled it getting a bit of a squeeze as the Chimaera stared threateningly at the human. This human...was with the dragon as well. And apparently an ally of this kittens. Which meant that if she did something, it was likely the dragon was going to be a bit upset. Tsk, so troublesome. Well, she had no desire to pick a fight with a high-dragon.

"Stare all you wish. This one does not mind." She commented slowly, sizing up the woman in front of her. These 'dolls'...so many of them. They smelled wrong. Like something that the demons here would have come up with. "Is this your ally, housepet? She smells of things better left not mentioned." She didn't take her eyes off Katherine as she asked Maoin the question. Free food though? It was a tempting offer. At least this one knew to give proper respect when intruding upon the domain of someone stronger than they.

"...Hmm, this one can't say it finds your bold words distasteful." She gave Katherine a slightly feral grin, flashing the human some of her sharp teeth. "This one will trade a meal for my presence. This housepet has peaked this one's curiosity." She relaxed her stance only slightly, still giving Katherine a challenging stare similar to that of a bear, or some other wild animal. "This one will lead them to the front gates." She walked past Katherine, her serpentine tail smacking her on the butt like it had done with Maoin earlier. "This one has to wonder how brave you are, human...so boldly stepping into a lions den."

She didn't give Katherine much time to answer before hopping through the window, as it was the only way for anything that couldn't fly or climb to leave.

Marie, Luna, Sorcha, Sol

---

The serpent hissed as its head met the barrier, recoiling in pain as Luna's hammer slammed into the top of its head. There was a sickening crack as the light hammer slammed into ts tough, hard scales, the bottom of its maw slamming onto the ground from the force. Luna's second strike, hit true while the serpent was recovering, slamming right into the side of its jaw. The serpent hissed in pain, its two arms lashing viciously out with its claws as it attempted to swipe at Luna.

"You expect me to know anything about this thing!?" Marie shouted back. She was nothing, if not observant and knew how to use it. "You might want to move though!" The serpent dove to the side, away from Luna its body whipping around and slamming into Luna's jaw if she didn't avoid it, before slithering some distance away. "It has some very hard scales, I don't think that sword is going to work-eh?"

Before she could utter another word, the serpents tail whipped back around, slamming into Marie's face like a whip and coiling around Marie's neck before sharply yanking her up into the air as it slithered away, carrying Marie with it. Its tail coiled around her body, attempting to squeeze the demon briefly as it stared at Luna, snarling at her in a seeming challenge, almost taunting her to come and get Marie, dangerous flames lining the side of its mouth.

It was clear though that it was feeling pain from the two large blows to its head. The hammer Luna used seemed to at least seriously cause it some pain. Even so, unless Luna acted fast Marie was probably not going to be alive for much longer.

Sorcha watched impassively, resting the butt of her glaive on the ground. If she needed to, she'd kill the beast in one hit. It hadn't even noticed her yet...though she didn't really want to save the demon.

[Roleplayer001]

Meowka blinked a couple of times as her mistress let go, letting out a sigh of relief. Take it easy - what? The cat blinked a few times and wondered where this sudden encouragement was coming from and what for.

She didn't hate the dolls THA-

Oh. Of course.

The prowler of the night felt her insides fume up just a bit as she took a few steps back from the window where her littermate would be coming through, carried by the dolls as if she was some sort of hero. "Oh yay, we are playing hero." Meowka grumbled, but not so loudly as to interrupt any real conversation.

Still though, she grabbed the Puppeteer's hand. She wasn't too happy about this half-breed whatever it is talking down to her mistress. By goodness, she was her mistress to tease, not anyone else's. "Look, mixture-thingy-whatnot, she has the Prowler of the Night by her side. You may be bigger than me, but I've scared bears away when I was two months old."

As for Maoin, when she noticed her rescue had arrived she remained awake for a few more seconds and in spite of her struggles her shallow breaths sent her back under into the low-maintenance mode of sleep, after a quick few nods that yes, she knew this woman.

[Pyromania99]

Lunalel Lightsword

"Marie!!" Luna said, recoiling from the blow she blocked with her weapon. It easily pushed her back a bit, though she kept her feet planted on the ground. "Damn you.... Magnus Malleus." Luna about muttered. She wasn't even considering how much she's been switching between her weapons. She was about to charge, but noticed the flames coming from the dragon's mouth. "So afraid of losing by your own merit you have to take a hostage? If it can even understand me. So be it, I'll end this. Scutum." A large shield of light appeared on her left arm, tall enough to cover her body, and wide enough to protect her sides. Both it and the hammer were light enough to where they didn't emcumber her movement but didn't lack in power or defense. She started to move toward the creature, ready to knock the creature unconscious as soon as she got close. Her strength was dwindling though, so it would be the end of the rope for her soon.

Katherine Lindall

"There's a fine line between brave and stupidity... However, I'd say I've more than stepped into the Nemean Lion's den before and came out unscathed. You don't look so feral though, so I'm sure we'll get along." Katherine said, eyeing the creature before her up and down, making a note about Meowka's comment of being a hero, followed by the cat grabbing her hand and saying something negative to the woman in front of them. Katherine sighed a bit but decided to make a follow up.

"She's cute isn't she? I find it hard to believe someone so cute could scare off a bear." She grabbed the cat's head and held it close in a short hug as the group of dolls did their best to get Maoin over the window carefully... Somehow succeeding. "So I'm fairly safe." That said, she couldn't keep her eyes off one thing of the woman in front of them. "That said, perhaps later you, I and those abs of yours could talk a bit more." She added unconsciously moving her free hand to the Chimera's stomach to feel up the muscles.

[Rune_Alchemist]

Chimaera, Meowka, Maoin, Katherine.

---

"...oh? A prowler of the night? Do you prowl because you are afraid of fighting your foes fairly?" The Chimaera replied, a feral grin spreading across her lips. The chimaera's tail tapped its head lightly against the floor before fixing her with a gaze that was clearly questioning her intelligence. She almost seemed ready to take the house pet up on her challenge, but thankfully for her Katherine was willing to cover for the cat.

"O-ohhh?~" The Chimaera clearly made a purr as Katherine ran her hand over her stomach. She had walked into the den of the Nemean Lion? And come out unscathed. "Hrrmmm...Perhaps this one would be...eager to show you its 'abs'." She took a step closer to Katherine, letting her feel her stomach for as long as the human liked for a few seconds before returning to what she had been asked too. "After...this one does as you have asked. Perhaps." She turned, the snake tail impertinently smacking Meowka lightly on the head as she turned to leave.

"Careful you do not prowl where you do not belong..." She turned and walked with the dolls to the entrance of the ruin. It was an easy enough trek, though the dolls had a bit of trouble carrying Maoin, though the Chimaera seemed rather off put by them in general she didn't do anything other than passively lead them.

When they finally reached the entrance, the sun was starting to sink fully over the horizon. Soon it would be night, but that wouldn't be much of a concern it seemed. Miren had already started setting up camp, with a little help from Eith. A large fire pit had been made, and Miren had set up a small make-shift kitchen and was starting to get to work.

With the appearance of the Chimaera and dolls though, the rabbit stopped what she was doing immediately.

"...O-oh? H-hi?" "Oh dearohdear what is this she looks mean." Needless to say, the bunny was a tiny bit uncomfortable around the decidedly larger woman.

"...you smell of rabbit, yet something different. Similar? Yet not."

"E...eh?"

"...hmm, no need to be afraid, rabbit. This one has been invited peacefully." She took a look around the camp then back to Maoin. "That one has fallen asleep however...Perhaps wake the housepet. Do you need help with this camp?"

"...uhm, w-we could use a bit of help, yes?" Miren replied, a but unsure.

"Hmm, then this one will lend assistance."

"Eh?" Yes, she was confused by this sudden appearance of this new person and by their offer of help. Maybe Maoin would have some answers? Miren would hop over to wherever the dolls sat the kitten down, and gently prod her to wake her up. The Chimaera went about helping set up the camp, easily doing any moving or things that needed doing.

Luna, Marie, Sorcha, Sol.

---

As Luna charged, a stream of fire blasted its way towards her, completely burning the ground and plants near it. Her shield held, the flames blasting off the front of it and fading off into nothing. Still, the intense heat charred her armor even slightly. Soon enough, there was a break in the flames as the Wyrm inhaled again, giving Luna the perfect opportunity to finish it off. It hadn't been expecting her to literally run through a wall of flame.

Luna's hammer first slammed into the leg holding its body up, surprised by the action it couldn't properly hold itself up, causing its upper body to fall within range of Luna's hammer. The second strike hammered right into the side of the serpents face - sending the creature sprawling to Luna's right, and slamming into the side of the castle. It's grip on Marie lessened, dropping her to the ground. Luna might want to check on Marie. She was laying, sprawled out on the remains of some burned pile of shrubbery.

"Uurff...stupid...lizard..."

...she was probably fine.

Sorcha smiled to herself, watching Luna finish off the Wurm. Haha...that could have gone so terribly, but Luna pulled it off in the end. That was her Knight for her.

"Hold tightly, Sol." Sorcha said, moments before flapping her might wings and gently landing some distance in front of Luna after a brief leap from the roof. She gave the Wyrm a seemingly scornful look before turning her gaze back to Luna.

"Now that was a spectacular battle!" She laughed heartily. "I almost thought you would need my help, hehe...but that's my Knight. You did well, Luna-" Before she could finish her sentence, there was a hiss as the Wyrm slithered into a corner formed by two walls of the castle, coiling its body and glaring at Luna, though it no longer seemed hostile.

"...Oh, what's this? Still some fight in you, creature? Admirable, but use that thick skull of yours." Sorcha said impassively. "Be grateful I don't feel like skinning your scales for arms and armor for my knight."

It hissed again, putting its claws in front of its massive coiled body in an almost protective seeming manner.

What would Luna do?

[Roleplayer001]

Meowka began to reply to the chimera's counter-challenge and began to step forward, "-afra-?" But her lips closed abruptly as her head was wrapped into a surprise hug and she was called cute. Cute of all things? Not tough, or terrifying, or sexy, but cute!? She wasn't sure how cute would keep her archwizard safe.

The cat was a little upset but as she brooded on those thoughts although her eyes widened as suddenly her mistress began to rub the chimera's abs. What? Of course, the words and reply only made things worse with the tail smack making Meowka want to fume. She hadn't been flirted with a lot in her time, but this was obvious. And it wasn't just coming from the dirty chimera either.

She was still holding hands with 'Miss' Katherine, but the bond would make it very apparent that she wasn't entirely happy about this at all - she wasn't exactly feeling adventurous in the moment and would have taken her hand away if it wouldn't be so obvious. She looked away from the older woman naturally as if ignoring her before finally saying something. A cold voice finally broke the silence.
"So ... where next, oh mistress Katherine?"

Maoin remained still, completely unaware of being moved as eventually she was ridden from her sleep by being prodded - again. The cat didn't even bother to open her eyes, simply tossing a nearby branch in Miren's general direction and cursing at her in Irish before closing her eyes once again.

Rude? Yes, but she was tired. She didn't have long to think though as she fell back asleep.

[Pyromania99]

Lunalel Lightsword

As Luna finished the battle, Sorcha decended upon the field. Of course she was just watching. Well, probably wanted Sol to see her in action... Well, it was more likely for herself really. Regardless, the Knightess walked over to Marie, to make sure she was fine. "Thanks for the compliment, but I really should be doing better. Would you be able to help me train some when we return home?" Soom enough, she found herself at Marie. "Let me see your neck." With or without the demon's consent, Luna took a look. It was slightly bruised but she seemed mostly fine. "Let me heal you." Luna put her palm at Marie's neck and muttered "Healing..."

Soon enough, whatever little damage there really was disappeared soon enough. "That should be good for now, Marie." Luna stated before standing, offering her a hand to stand. After she either accepted or didn't, the Knightess made her way over to the Wyrm. "Now then, you." Luna looked back to Sorcha, "Assuming that it understands speech then?" After a quick nod, Luna continued, "Would you like to explain yourself? I won't hurt you anymore... Supposing you don't try anything foolish, I suppose we can keep it that way."

Sol meanwhile, just stayed quiet. Luna was doing something important after all, and she didn't want to make a distraction for her. Plus, she was too busy staring at this large lizard dragon thing! It was cool looking!

Katherine Lindall

Katherine couldn't help but giggle at her kitten a little bit. "Oh my, unhappy are you? You don't look as cute with an unhappy face. Anyhow, we're going on a little foray upstairs." She tightened her grip on the cat's hand and pulled her up the stairs. "Why are you all unhappy? Just because I was flirting with that ball of muscle?

Once the two reached the top of the steps, Katherine turned to look her familiar in the eyes. "Are you upset I was flirting? Or perhaps was it I was flirting in front of you? Or perhaps... It was because it wasn't at you?" Her free hand slipped under the kitten's chin and lifted it to make sure her vision wasn't taken away. "Or am I wrong?" She added, squeezing Meowka's hand. She was mostly teasing the cat now, but if she could get the cat to answer that'd work as well.

Eith the Shellagh

Eith had done what she could, setting the fire and a few other things... But this new thing came in. It was... Strong looking. She definitely kept her eyes on this creature or whatever it is. After a bit of her working, Eith's curiosity overwhelmed her. She stepped up to the Chimera. "You look strong. Smell like many things. What are you? Was it... Chimera? Who are you? Name? I am Eith, of the Shellagh. 'It's a pleasure to meet you' as the humans put it." She offered a hand as she noticed the humans had done before in meetings. It's lucky for her that she learned these mannerisms after her seal weakened.

[Rune_Alchemist]

Chimaera, Miren, Eith, Maoin

---

"Eep!" The twig struck Miren right between the eyes, the rabbit making a rather adorable sounding yelp as she stumbled backwards from the sudden action, falling right on her butt. "Oowww..." She rubbed her backside, pouting at Maoin's sleeping form. Someone was cranky? Was she that tired? Then who was she going to get to help her cook for everyone? She couldn't cook for everyone and the new person here by herself!

"Hmm?..." The chimaera stopped, dropping a pile of wood near the fire pit. "You smell of fire and passion...but its a faint, almost as if a past memory." She replied, humming lightly before replying further. "This one is a Chimaera. Likewise, it is a pleasure to meet you, Eith of the Shellagh." She breathed in, glancing to the side before exhaling with a shake of her head. The serpent that was her tail seemed to frown before laying still on the ground.

"...this one does not have a name. It gave it up when it no longer deserved it." She took Eith's hand, giving it a firm, strong grip before givng her a grin. "You are the one the houspet spoke of, aren't you? The remains of the experiments of the demons that once stayed here."

As those two conversed, Miren grumbled and walked over to where she had set up some pots, pans, and other cooking utensils noticing one of Katherine's dolls. She frowned, hesitating a few seconds before approaching the tiny thing. "Ah...uhm, h-hello? D-do you think you could help with the cooking."

Luna, Marie, Sorcha, Sol.

---

"Oh? More training? I certainly wouldn't mind a sparring match or two with you, Luna." Sorcha replied with a smile, not commenting on Luna walking over to Marie, instead focusing on making sure the Wyrm didn't get uppity again.

"Urf, I don't need you're help." Marie groaned, as she sat up, but Luna didn't give her much of a choice. The knightess placed a hand on her shoulder, and the other on her bruised neck - which surprised Marie completely as she felt the bruise healing. She blinked, unsure of what exactly to say. She...she wasn't sure how to react. She had never really had anyone just heal her of their own free will like that. Or not even do anything of their own free will. She usually had to shout commands and order people to do things like that.

So wordlessly, she sat up and said nothing to Luna, not accepting her hand.

She didn't need her help.

She was the heiress to the throne of Pride.

She didn't need help from anyone.

...

She cast her gaze to the ground, scoffing lightly at Luna's kindness as she walked over to the Wyrm.

"I wouldn't count on it being able to talk." Sorcha said, giving the Wyrm a decidedly arrogant gaze to which it simply responded to with an impertinent hiss. "Wyrms barely are able to call themselves a dragon. At least Wyverns can fly, but these land serpents are hardly deserving of such a title. I'm surprised it can even understand human speech." It growled again, but it seemed to understand that if it tried anything else it wasn't going to have a fun time.

But...explain itself?

How could it do that?

It cast a glance towards the upper levels of the castle before fixing Luna with a stare, lowering its head towards the knight and nudging her chest with the end of its nose. Sorcha growled at this, electricity arcing across her wings as she took a step towards the Wyrm who backed off, only a bit.

Meowka - Katherine.

---

At the top of the stairs, the castle remained mostly as it had been. There wasn't too much different, at least. The hallway above was a small one that lead directly to the floor above the doorway that would have been blocked off by the rubble from earlier. The passage beyond seemed to be a simple hallway with some decrepit old suits of armor, though nothing really notable of value. As Katherine would move further down the hallway they would eventually come to a large room - some sort of large bedroom it seemed. Perhaps whoever used to be the head researcher here used to live here.

Unlike the rest of the castle though, this one had previous signs of activity showing.

The room smelled vaguely of some sort of exotic incense. There were burn marks on the floor, and if Katherine were to take a look around the room she'd notice some very out of place implements.

Tools that were used in embalming, furthering cementing whoever had been here just recently had been of foreign nature.

[Roleplayer001]

"Oh my, unhappy are you? You don't look as cute with an unhappy face. Anyhow, we're going on a little foray upstairs."

Didn't look as cute with an unhappy face? She never attempted to be cute, though based on how much her owner mentioned her 'cute butt' or 'cute look' she was obviously very good at it. She followed along absentmindedly as she was tugged along, simply happy that she wasn't being dragged by her collar this time and paying very little attention to her surroundings as they approached the top of the staircase.

"Why are you all unhappy? Just because I was flirting with that ball of muscle?"

By the time they reached it though, Meowka's face was flushed and a scowl was written across her eyebrows. The archwizard looked into her eyes inquisitively, but the cat turned her face away to allow herself to at least hide her emotions somewhat. 'Ball of Muscle' wasn't exactly a praiseworthy name, but it had been quite clear from the way the wizard prodded the creature's abs that the Puppeteer didn't mind that.

"Are you upset I was flirting? Or perhaps was it I was flirting in front of you? Or perhaps... It was because it wasn't at you?"

Meowka's face flushed as she looked away. She felt embarrassed, and if what other familiars were saying was true her 'owner' could tell she was as well, which only made her cheeks fill with more blood and frustration. One of the kitten's eyes took a quick glance back at Katherine - the strange and pretty blue hair, lithe body, pretty face, cute clothes - and then her eye returned to where it was as it stared in another direction. She began to formulate a response, then started to shake her head and thought about simply walking away and ignor-

-she found herself looking straight at the Mistress Katherine, Archwizard, Mind Reader, puppeteer as her face was grabbed possessively by the older woman. The mage would simply see the embarrassment become worse as the familiar's face reddened to its deepest possible stage and her body shake a bit due to the nervousness surrounding the entire situation. Katherine would feel the girl try to back away or turn her head to hide her face but the woman's grip was firm and the cat was unable to escape.

"Or am I wrong?"

For a couple of seconds, Meowka maintained her state of panic. The cat gulped. "N-no, your not." If her owner was surprised by her responding, she'd probably be more surprised as the girl seemed to calm down, her panic for those few seconds reducing itself to the embarrassment anyone would feel when they said something like that.

With a cool hand she pushed her owner's other one down, and grabbed that hand as well so that she held both. "I-I'm sorry, but this is new to me ... Ronat generally avoided this subject or didn't really care." The girl took a couple breaths as she looked away before staring right back at Katherine. "Yeah, I'm not the only cute one here. Someone up here has an adorable smile and a childlike sense of wonder when she stumbles into something new, and its not me."

How was she supposed to do this? Well ... "You are tall and powerful, have hair of a shade prettier than the ocean, but most importantly you take care of me Mistress Katherine. Yeah, I like your attention. I'd like more of it, and it annoys me you'd give it to someone who insulted you and seemed to think you were 'unclean' like that when you have me by your side. Even if you force me into evil sometimes." The cat let out a small grin at her own joke.

Meowka let go of the woman's hands and shrugged. "But you're a grown woman, and you're the one in charge between us. I can't stop you from playing with others, but you can stop me. I guess I could argue about it, but you'd probably just have your dolls tie me up again anyways."

The cat paused before her face flushed a bit as she placed a thoughtful finger against her chin.

"Although that wouldn't be bad in certain contexts ..." She shook her head. "But yeah. There's that. You'll probably want to make fun of me, and I guess I can't stop you sweet cheeks." Meowka licked the woman's neck as if to prove a point, face still reddened from embarrassment. Finally the cat backed away and turned down the hallway, tail standing proud and tall as it lifted the edge of her dress. "Anyways, ya coming?"

[Pyromania99]

Katherine Lindall

Katherine was indeed surprised, and couldn't tell if she allowed the cat to move her cat down or she just couldn't focus on keeping her head forward. She stayed quiet through the cat's monologue. She was definitely confused by the girl's straight-forward manner in this way. Then she finished and headed off towards a room teasingly. "I can't really make fun of you when you talk so serious like this." She looked through the rooms that were available to look in as she walked by noting the suits of armor. "Damn suits of armor should just disappear..." She muttered as she walked past.

Once she noticed that specific bedroom, her eyes narrowed, studying the implements in the room. "The hell is this? Embalming tools? Someone trying to make a mummy? And this smell... It's familiar... Incense was it? An ancient Egyptian of sorts? We'll have to ask that Chimera later..." What was someone doing with Embalming Tools here? It was odd. They couldn't have been here too long ago with this smell still lingering. It was then that she noticed the window in the room and took a peek out. There was a sight she had not thought she'd see. "Oh my, how are you all down there?"

Lunalel Lightsword

Luna followed the creature's glance upstairs and mostly ignored Sorcha's insults at the creature. She wasn't one to judge a creature or person on their characteristics. Though she was slightly irritated it decided to attack her and a non-threat... Specifically the non-threat. Still she was looking up when the creature poked her chest so her eyes went fairly wide before realizing Sorcha scared the thing back. Luna held her hand up, signaling Sorcha to cease for the moment. "Sorcha, you believe in me right? It knows that if it steps out of line it's as good as dead with Sorcha Ó Maoilriain at my side." With confidence, Luna stepped forward and gently patted the thing on its nose. As she knew Sorcha trusted her, she trusted Sorcha to follow up.

"Oh my, how are you all down there?" A voice called from above... A familiar voice. "Oh my, if it isn't the Dragon, the Knight, the Demon and the Mage-in-Training. And... A Wyrm of course. No offense but I stopped paying attention to your fight."

Sol had long dismounted Sorcha's back, luckily it was before the dragon had electricity arc between her wings. When the voice called from above, she was the first to reference her from below. "Ahh! Puppet-Lady! Luna fought this... Uhhh, Lindwyrm? And won! And now we're... Doing something..." She wasn't all too sure what they were doing at the moment. An interrogation?

Luna noticed that was around the area that the Wyrm looked up at. "Miss Lindall! Have you found anything interesting up there?" She asked.

"Aside the creepy suits of armor?" Katherine asked before pausing, considering if she wanted to mention the room she was in. Well, whatever. "Embalming tools, smells like incense of sorts. Someone was here fairly recently. Nothing else at the moment. I'm just going to go back to camp, a little bunny has asked for some help cooking. Head back as soon as you're done..." With that, the teacher exited the window.

With that, Luna looked confused. Embalming tools? Those were... Uhh, things to preserve bodies? "What's that even mean. We just missed someone?" Luna asked, peeking back at Sorcha, resting her hand on the Wyrm's nose.

---

"We didn't find anything horridly great... Don't see anything else of worth up here do you? Perhaps we should take these tools with us... Might force the owner to come looking for us..." With that idea, Katherine summoned a few dolls to carry some of the supplies with them. With the depressing supplies in tow, Katherine wanted to bring up her previous conversation a bit. "You know, Meowka, when she said I was 'unclean' she wasn't exactly wrong. It's not like I can deny that. You know just what I do, don't you?" She asked, fairly serious with her cat since she was as well.

Eith the Shellagh

"Not deserving of a name?" Eith vocalized as she thought slightly on what the Chimera said before realizing the thing in front of her was talking more. "What housepet?" It didn't take too long for Eith to realize she was talking about Maoin. "Oh, that annoying thing." Eith muttered pulling her hand from the handshake. "The remains of the experiments of the demons that once stayed here would probably be me." Eith confirmed. Her memories were tatters, but her horrid feelings about the place was most likely a good sign. Still, Eith looked over the Chimera in front of her quickly and nodded a few times. She was going to be blunt. "I'd want someone like you repopulating my pack." Less a request and more an observation. "Quite strong looking with advantages one can see plain."

Doll #7

Meanwhile, Miren asked a doll to help with cooking. This was just the perfect question. With the vast knowledge of Katherine's recipe book, this doll was in fact... Chef Doll! It nodded, fakely twirling it's non-existant moustache. It made a gesture towards the ingredients that seemed to be asking, "What are we making?"

[Rune_Alchemist]

Chimaera, Miren, Eith, Maoin

---

"You...want me to join your pack?" The Chimaera paused before a toothy grin spread across her mouth. Laughter followed as she spoke. "Quite the audacious one. This one did not believe so many people such as yourself existed in your so-called society." She paused for a moment, contemplating her answer. Really, a creature such as her following anyone? Well, she wasn't exactly opposed to it - but she wasn't one to simply roll over at the command of anyone.

"Fine," Her expression suddenly turned serious, fixing Eith with an aggressive glare as her toothy grin faded into a slight frown. "This one will consider it only if you prove strong." The Chimaeras intention would have been very clear, if her body language was anything to go by. She wanted Eith to prove herself that she was strong, and was worthy of her loyalty or capable of controlling her.

Miren meanwhile let out a relieved sigh as the doll agreed to help. She had never really interacted with the dolls much before, and she was slightly afraid that she wouldn't be able to communicate with them well. At least they seemed somewhat capable.

"R-right, so. First we're going to put on the meat. Cook it over the fire. All the pots and pans should be in place, so you'd just need to put the food on and make sure it doesn't burn. There's going to be a stew in one pot, and there's apples and some carrots and other vegetables in the supplies to make a salad with." As Miren spoke, she reached over to the small table she had set up to work with, reaching for a cutting tool as she began slicing some carrots and tossing them into a pot filled with water.

Luna, Marie, Sorcha, Sol.

---

Sorcha was visibly taken aback as Luna not only told her to play nice with this overgrown snake, she pet it of all things. A Wyrm! A lesser dragon! A thing that could barely be called a dragon! What, was she not cuddly enough for pets!? Luna could pet her all she wanted too! She had to make a point to close her mouth, as it was hanging open in slight shock. Calm, calm. It wasn't like Luna was going to take this thing home with them. It wasn't a lost puppy or something - it was a very dangerous creature that was obviously just a tad bit vicious if it attacked someone out of nowhere.

The Wyrm visibly retreated from Luna's touch, only for an instant in hesitation, but upon seeing the dragon trying anything it leaned into Luna's hand, rubbing its muzzle alongside her hand almost in the same manner a puppy or dog would. A few sparks of electricity arced between Sorcha's horns at this, and she folded her arms across her chest, tapping a foot forcefully on the ground. Hah, she was a grand dragon. A lesser dragon like this couldn't fluster her, nope!

The wyrm pressed its head into Luna's hand, before withdrawing and bumping her on the chest again with its muzzle. It seemed like it was trying to tell her something again but in this state it couldn't exactly speak, it seemed.

Marie for the most part started walking back to the camp at the front of the castle, seemingly disinterested and making a point to avoid Luna.

[Roleplayer001]

Meowka eventually ended up giving up her lead and followed the older woman instead with a small smile written across her face. Had ... had she actually won that conversation? With Mistress Katherine having no real reply? The cat largely ignored the going ons of the others, something about a land lizard, a flying lizard, and the knightess talking along with their red haired pet.

What was a twelve year old doing here anyways?

The cat shrugged however as the Archwizard continued on down the hallway, preparing to leave the castle alongside her until the woman asked her a stupid question. They had talked about this before, the first day they met. "Yeah, you bathe in evil everyday. No wonder she has considers you dirty." Meowka rolled her eyes to the heavens as if it was a silly question. "But look, that doesn't give her a right to call you names." Meowka spoke seriously. Yeah, the cat thought it was a bit silly for the wizard to not only hop in the water herself but drag her pet in as well, but she was a tough kitten. And besides, she groomed herself and her mistress (as much as she'd allow) afterwards, so it wasn't like any lasting harm was done by it.

[Pyromania99]

Katherine Lindall

"Name-calling is just that, Dumb-Cat." Katherine told Meowka, making a bit of a point. "Nothing worth sweating over. We are neither King nor Duke and those people are the only ones that need to worry over such a thing." She patted her pet on the head a couple of times before speaking again. "Rather, the idea is to prove them wrong... In other cases, incredibly right. Depends." The two were walking down the steps at this point and Katherine was definitely ready to eat.

Lunalel Lightsword

Sol hid slightly behind Sorcha for a bit, but realized quickly that was not the best idea. She was... Irate. It really seemed safer over by Luna and the Wyrm. "Luna, can I?" The girl asked. With a quick nod, Sol came over gently. Luna continued to pet the creature to make sure it stayed calm and took a peak back at Sorcha who even she could tell was... Irritated or angry? Either way, she patted the Wyrm and assured it that Sol was good.

"This girl is my sister and she's just going to pet you."

Sol hesitantly reached out and touched the creature. When it didn't bite her hand off, she continued to pet it. Quietly, she also added to Luna, "I think Dragon-Lady doesn't like you petting this one."

Luna didn't especially want to admit it, but had noticed this earlier. "Yea..." The Dragon was an easily jealous one wasn't she? "Sorcha, would you come over and pet this one here? It's like a cute little dog... Just a lot bigger... And scalier. I also think it wants to say something, but well... It seems impossible. Would you happen to know a way? I'd owe you."

Eith the Shellagh

"A challenge to a fight? This one could do aught but accept... However, I am hungry. I would only accept this kind of fight with both of us on a full stomach." Eith looked over at Miren and then back to the Chimaera, pulling closer into a whisper. "Besides, we could probably ask for more food after the fight." This was obviously the thought process of someone who's mind was mostly on food.

Doll #7

The doll nodded at the bunny's instructions and clapped it's hands together, calling some of the dolls nearby, spreading the jobs out to multiple dolls. One doll per pot and pan and two to help Miren if she needed. They saluted the girl, ready to help.

[Rune_Alchemist]

Chimaera, Miren, Eith, Maoin, Marie.

---

"Ah...? Quite the gluttonous one you seem...be careful to not take more from the forest than necessary...or ask more from those generous enough to lend you aid." The chimaera replied with a smirk. This hound was intriguing...though a little annoying, to be honest. Such was most people not accustomed to life in the forests, she supposed. "But this one does not dance to the whims of others, Shellagh. If not now - then tomorrow morning when both of are well rested." Her ears twitched, swiveling in the direction of the nearby forest.

"This one has things to make certain of and take care of after the meal." Honestly...she might just go with these people, even if this Eith of the Shellagh lost their little duel. They were intriguing, really. Perhaps it was because she had been away from others for so long, but they had been amusing to converse with, just slightly. Besides, she was curious to see how well civilization had advanced in her long absence from it.

Marie had made her way back to the camp now, taking a seat on one of the wagons and remaining silent as usual. Her eyes lingered on the Chimaera for a bit, but ultimately said nothing. No one worth talking too.

"Hmm..." Miren tasted the stew, a ladle in her hand as she contemplated adding something else to it. Miren, was nothing if not fast in a kitchen. Most of the food was cooking away over the fires and for the most part just needed to be watched to make sure nothing burned. Stir the stew, put in some spices and maybe add a bit more vegetables to it. With the help of the dolls, by the time the others arrived from wrapping up whatever it was they were doing the food would likely be done and ready.

Luna, Sorcha, Sol.

---

"You want me, a grand-high dragon to pet a lizard like that?" Sorcha replied with a scoff. "You have to be joking, Luna. That thing likely has the memory of a fish. It probably can't even remember what it was doing twenty minutes ago." The Wyrm didn't seem to pay attention to Sorcha's comments, instead focusing on the pets it was receiving from Sol and Luna. It rubbed its muzzle against Sol's hand as it gave a pleased growl...before opening its mouth and licking the entirety of Sol's face and nuzzling her face again.

"I'll try speaking with it," Sorcha said with a huff. "But I don't think it'll have something relevant information for us." Sorcha walked over, giving the Wyrm a cool glare as she spoke to it. "Know that I'm only doing this because Luna asked me too, lizard." She said coolly. The creature turned its head to Sorcha silently as she approached, withdrawing a bit from the other dragons presence.

"So what do you have to say for yourself, hm? Just a hungry animal or did you have a reason for attacking my knight?" The Wyrm hissed lowly, looking around the area for a few seconds before growling, shaking its head. "...hmm?" Sorcha's wings flapped curiously as it replied. That...that couldn't be right, could it? Well, that was certainly something if this thing was to be believed. She didn't trust the validity of it entirely - Wyrms may be simple minded creatures by they could be cunning if they wanted to be. "You...you are certain?" She frowned, holding a hand to her chin as the Wyrm lowered its head with a nod.

"Ugh, I feel dirty for asking this, but Luna - " Sorcha turned to the knight. "There's something I need to make sure of. I do not want to force taking a creature such as this on you, or strain yourself too much with a second familiar, but I think it is possible for you to do so. Or, alternatively Sol could likely do it. Either way, I can not understand it entirely as we are too different but I think it is urgent we hear what it has to say." She looked back to the Wyrm.

"So I would suggest at least, taking it as a familiar, even if only temporarily."

[Pyromania99]

Lunalel Lightsword

”Take a second familiar? I suppose it’s possible?” Luna said, imitating Sorcha in putting her hand to her chin. ”Are you sure of this?” She continued. Sorcha didn’t seem too happy with the idea in general.

"I don't like it," Sorcha replied with a grimace. "And I am not certain I trust it, but if what I think it's saying is true, someone told it to attack you."

Luna and Sol’s faces both turned shocked. ”What the hell.” Luna muttered. She put her hand to her chin. Well, it was quite possible to use the familiar contract to force the truth out worst case scenario. ”Very well. I don’t think Sol could do this with as little magic training as she has anyhow.”

She turned to the Wyrm, ”The sooner this is done the better then. We both promise something to the other correct? Then, Wyrm, I suggest we promise to each other companionship for now.” She looked at the creature in front of her, ”Do you accept?”

The Wyrm tilted its head to the side, almost as if it didn't quite understand for a few seconds. Companionship? Well…it…it could do that, right? Aha, yes! It could have a human do things for it and it could pester that haughty flying rat, too! Yes, yes, this was good! So the Wyrm nodded, a bit too eagerly. It held out its nose, nudging Luna's hand with its muzzle again.

Immediately there was a reaction as the contract was accepted on both sides. There was a surge of magical energy that would leave Luna feeling quite drained as she felt more of her already exhausted supply leave her. There was a flash of fire as the Wurm in front of them changed into something much more humanoid.

Wurm

She was standing just around Luna's height - or rather, sitting? She still looked like a human, but her lower body was that of a serpent and her hands ended with sharp claws that could easily cut through steel. She had black hair, tied back into a ponytail. Thankfully her body was covered in a number of scales that ahem, covered most of her private parts for now. Golden, serpentine eye stared at Luna.

Without a word, she grabbed Luna's hand and placed it on her head with a dopey grin as her serpentine tail wagged behind her.

”Not quite what I was expecting.” Luna said, her eyes scanning the newfound familiar’s body. The serpentine tail caught her eye more than anything… Well, maybe aside those claws. ”Can you speak? Do you have a name?” She asked, lightly rustling the Wyrm’s hair though with the hair tied back there was very little she could really do.

Eagerly, the Wyrm leaned into the pettings it was receiving.

"S-shameless…" Sorcha grumbled off to the side.

For a few seconds, it seemed as though the Wyrm hadn't heard Luna at all and was too focused on receiving pets from the knight.

"A-ah! Uhm, uhm," The Wyrm gave a confident grin as she finally processed the question. "Yes, yes, of course I have a name!" Her voice was a higher pitched one, but if flowed eloquently. "A great land dragon such as I, of course, has an equally amazing name!" She held a hand to her chest confidently and fell silent.

A few moments rolled by, until she gave a sideways glance away from Luna.

"...I forgot." She said with a dismissive chuckle, causing Sorcha to facepalm.

Luna quickly followed Sorcha in the facepalm. ”Well, we can’t just keep calling you ‘Wyrm’ I suppose. How about, ‘Avaline’?” Luna asked the Wyrm, seeing if she was fine with that name.

The Wyrm's eyes lit up as she was given a name. She gave a confident, pleased grin and pushed her head further into Luna's hand.

"Yes, yes, Avaline is a splendid name." Ahaha, yes! Success! She had gotten away with getting a name without saying she didn't have one! Yes, she was a genius yes! She continued to sit there enjoying pets, seemingly forgetting she had been asked what exactly had happened here.

”I’m glad you’re happy, but Avaline, I need to ask you. Sorcha mentioned that you said someone told you to attack me. Who was it? Why did they?” Luna asked, stopping with the pettings and instead putting her hands on the Wyrm’s shoulders. She wanted Avaline to take this seriously of course.

"A-ah. Right." Avaline replied, scrunching her face up as she tried to recall who had asked her to attack the silver-haired girl. A few seconds later she placed her hands on her hips, before proudly stating. [b]"…it wasn't you. It was that silver-haired girl. They told me if that if I killed them they'd be my friend."[b] Her tone sounded like if she thought that was 100% okay.

”You did go for her first didn’t you…” Luna mentioned before looking back at Sorcha. ”Do you think it’s related to those Embalming Tools that Miss Lindall found?” She asked, after petting Avaline on the head a bit. She turned entire to Sorcha, though Sol walked up and examined the entirety of the newly transformed Wyrm.

”Wow, this is interesting. I’ve never seen this before. The actual contract that is. So you are the same big dragon as before? You got really pretty!” Sol said as she watched in amazement, grabbing the Wyrm’s hands so she could examine them.

"Hm, it's possible." Sorcha replied, deciding that was all of the information they were likely to get out of 'Avaline'. "We should tell Marie, as well as Livia once we get back. If someone is trying to kill her…well, it's probably nothing new but not many people would know who Marie is outside of the underworld."

Avaline simply grinned brightly at Sol's compliment, letting the tiny human hold her hand and examine it. Yes, yes, now she was getting the praise and compliments she deserved! Her life of being bullied for not being a full dragon was over, haha.

”I don’t think she’s trying to pull the wool over our eyes.” Luna said, getting closer to Sorcha so she could whisper. ”Her thinking seems a little simple.” Luna added with a bit of a chuckle as she pulled back. ”Thanks for letting me do this… She said before pausing for a moment. She thought to herself for a couple of seconds before asking another question. ”Sorcha, be truthful with me. Are you… Angry or irritated? Maybe… Jealous…?”

"…huh?" Sorcha's head tilted to the side as she took a second to process what she as being asked. "A-angry?! Jealous? Pffft…I'm…I'm…" Sorcha's gaze looked towards 'Avaline' for a few moments before returning and meeting Luna's gaze. "I'm a dragon. I get jealous when things that are mine do stuff with things that aren't mine. Especially fake dragons such as that."

Well, at least she was being honest. ”Geez, Sorcha.” Luna said, scratching the back of her head. ”I mean, you know you’re my partner and number one person… Dragon? Well, whatever. You know what I mean. Oh, or were you jealous more from the pettings and pats on the head?”

"Pfft, n-no of course not!" Sorcha lied rather badly. "I am a grand dragon. 'Pettings' are not something I want. I am not a cat." She grumbled.

”Oh? Is that so? I suppose I should just go over to Avaline and pet her before I tell her to follow us to camp.” Luna said, starting to turn around, hoping to bait Sorcha into telling the truth.

Sorcha visibly grimaced as Luna turned around. Cruel! Since when did Luna become this cruel!?

"W-wait-" She grabbed Luna's hand before she had started to walk back towards Avaline. "I-it's not easy to just say something like that. F-for a dragon, at least." She grumbled, face turning a shade of red. "Our pride is a fickle thing sometimes and its…difficult to do things because of it sometimes." She let go of Sorcha's hand as her gaze turned to the ground.

"…but if you were to pet me and tell me I'm a good dragon I wouldn't exactly mind…"

Luna smiled since now Sorcha was being honest. ”I had to go that far to get you to admit it too.” The Knightess chuckled as she put a hand up to Sorcha’s head. ”Sorcha, you’re a good dragon.” She said as she rubbed her familiar’s head. ”Just be truthful with me alright?”

"Theeen if I were to say I love you would you believe meeee?~" The dragon rather impishly asked with a grin as she leaned into the pet.

Luna giggled a little, ”Love me? Like family?” Luna asked while she kept petting the dragon’s head. That was the only thing that she could understand really, or thought she might have meant.

"Heh," Sorcha chuckled. "Well, yes…anyways," Sorcha pulled back, giving her wings a flap as she looked over to Avaline and Sol. "We should be getting back to camp. If someone is after Marie then we shouldn't leave her alone." She paused for a moment as she sniffed the air. "…and it should be about dinner time, and I'm hungry."

”Alright.” Luna said as she removed her hand from Sorcha’s head. ”Oh, one last thing. Avaline. No more just randomly attacking people ok? You make more friends being nice than you do being mean… Though some people attack you before that happens…” She said, looking between Avaline and Sorcha. ”Maybe it’s a dragon thing.” She muttered aloud.

"But if people run from you when they see you, the only option to befriend them is to attack them, right?" Avaline replied, completely serious.

"I have no idea what you're talking about…" Sorcha chuckled dismissively just after.

”I think you’ll have more people running toward you now.” Luna said to Avaline before turning to Sorcha, obviously holding back a laugh toward her. ”Alright, let’s head back.”

Sol jumped on Avaline’s back though, ”Can you carry me back?” Looking absolutely adorable. ”I bet you don’t know how to use utensils! I can teach you if you carry me back!”

"E-eh?" Avaline replied with a pout. "I totally know how to use you-ten-sils!" She had to sound out the word as she replied. She had never heard that word before, but yes she was a clever dragon and wouldn't be so easily defeated! "But yes, I can carry you back!"

Sorcha merely rolled her eyes as she started back towards the entrance of the ruin.

Sol cheered and hugged the Wyrm around the neck, ”Luna’s right, see, we’re friends and you didn’t attack me.” Luna chuckled and followed Sorcha, petting her lightly on the head.

Eith the Shellagh

"Fine. Do you know any place that won't catch on fire?" Eith asked the Chimera. Obviously, she wanted to fight without reserve as she knew the Chimera would want as well. "I don't want to catch the forest on fire. Should we just go into the building then?" Eith asked, ready to move at the Chimera's suggestion.

Katherine Lindall

At about that time, Meowka and Katherine arrived on though Katherine took time to lock down the supplies they found in the upstairs. "Alright,I want a perimeter on the camp, with a plenty of eyes on these. Let's see if we get a visit from the owner." Soon enough she found herself walking over to where Miren was making the food. "Oh my, what delicious food do we have here tonight?"

[Rune_Alchemist]

Chimaera, Miren, Eith, Maoin, Marie, Luna, Sorcha, Sol.

---

"Heh, very well then." Chimaera smirked. "A meal tastes much better after a hard-fought hunt anyways, wouldn't you agree?" Without much more warning, the Chimaera turned, sauntering off back to the castle. "Follow me then, Shellagh. Let us see if you are worthy of having the this one under your command."

The two left the main area, heading back to the castle. It would be a fight in the dark, but such a hunt was exciting. Not to mention it wasn't like either of them would have trouble with it. She knew just the place that would be perfect for it, too. Chimaera gave Katherine a playful smirk as they passed, but said nothing else for now.

"Ah! Hello Katherine." Miren greeted her. "Thanks for letting the dolls help me by the way...with Maoin...erm...out of it I wouldn't have been able to do all the cooking myself." She gave Katherine a bright grin. "And there's some stew, some fresh vegetables, and some fish the chimaera was kind enough to lend us." She put the ladle in her hands on the table as she hopped over to where the fish was grilling. "Then there's some potatoes and smoked lamb. Sorcha wanted to bring those. I'd erm, ask her before eating those though." She gave a nervous chuckle. "Uhm, there's probably some other things in the wagon, but we should save that for breakfast tomorrow...ah?"

It was about then the rest of the party returned. Sorcha, Sol, Luna and...another person? Miren frowned. Another new person? Did they even have enough food for this?

Avaline slithered into the camp, with Sol riding on her back.

"Here we are tiny human!" Avaline proclaimed proudly, hands on her hips. Ah, there were so many different people here, weren't there? She was actually rather intimidated - but that, that wouldn't dissuade her, no! She could handle some people. "Ah...you mentioned food...but I don't see food?" Avaline replied with a frown. She didn't see any deer or rabbit here...well, she did see a rabbit but that was not food-rabbit.

"Mmmm..." Sorcha inhaled deeply as she walked over to where Miren was cooking. "I smell mutton and ale!" She heartily chuckled as she spotted Maoin, who was sprawled out on the ground not too far away. "Ah?" Sorcha walked over to the kitten, giving her a little prod. "My, someone had a fun day of adventuring without me." She chuckled. "But I can't have you sleeping on me now, Little one."

[Roleplayer001]

Gah! She simply wanted to take a nap, and this finger was jabbing her. The cat took a couple swipes at the offending object before speaking slowly. "Fuck off ... goddamn uncivilized mongrel ..." The cat's exclamation was as powerful and excited as the typical teenager's who was woken up too early.

...

...

Little one?

The cat shot immediately up to attention and began to stammer out an apology. "Sorcha I'm so-" The servant immediately began to cough as her lungs pleaded for air, forcing her explosive plea to be silenced. Which having to do didn't exactly make her more calm, especially given the situation. A small stream of sweat began to pour from her eyebrow.

After a few moments of breathing she made an effort to stand, using a nearby tree to help herself up so she could stand at attention. Of course as soon as she rose to her feet she realized everything felt wobbly and that she had the coordination of a three year old amputee.

"D-didn't realize it was -" A couple breaths. "Y-you." The cat tried to offer an apologetic curtsy, but ended up nearly falling over and to catch herself. A bit of fear was in her eyes as she looked up to meet Lady Sorcha's gaze before she lowered it submissively.

From the corner of the camp, Maoin's ears picked up her sister snickering. The cat would have shot her a death glare if she probably wasn't already dead herself.

At least their conflict would be resolved, although by an angry dragon.

Meowka followed the puppeteer with a slight scowl on her face from the insult. As the woman set about ordering her drones, the cat continued to follow still thinking about what she had said.

"Fish. Just fish." The cat pointed her finger at the bunny. "Its my favorite and my mistress doesn't give me enough of it." It didn't really occur or matter to the kitten that the fish had belonged to the mongrel - they were far too tasty to question their origins.

Then the cat had a realization about what was bothering her. "So you wouldn't care if I call you sweet cheeks then? Or snores-too-loud? You aren't a King or Duke to my knowledge." The prowler of the night had given her that name, partially hoping it'd bother her just a bit. Until the food arrived, it seemed the cat was satisfied with conjecturing with herself about what she should call her master.

Or, snickering at her litter mate's predicament as a mischievous smile crossed her face.

[Pyromania99]

Everyone

Katherine gave a curious look at the Chimera and Eith as they walked by, of course she'd keep a tab on them, just to make sure. But knowing that hound just barely, she knew that she'd be back for the food. So she turned back to Miren. "Well, I'm just glad to be of help." She told the bunny before following her view change to the other returnees. "I wish I could say I was surprised, but you know better. Surprising that she would have made that Wyrm into a familiar."

She had to hold back her laughter when Maoin said some uncouth words at her mistress. It's not one of those things you see very often. Not to a master that really cared mostly likely. Speaking of, her cat seemed intent on making something up. That needed rectified. Leisurely she walked over to Meowka and patted the kitten on the head. "By the way, Meowka. I just thought of something for your sake. You should probably keep the name calling in check if you don't know how to properly do it or it's towards the person that takes care of you and you swore to keep an oath to. After all, wouldn't you just hate if one day you stopped getting food to eat." If Meowka didn't get this as an obvious threat, she'd probably have a hard couple of days to come.

Meanwhile, Sol was excited for food. Not that she could really see it from where she was positioned on Avaline but she was sure she could smell it! "Ehhh? You can't just smell it? The bunny is cooking the food. Do you.... Not know what cooking is? Or do you know exactly what it is, just like 'you-ten-sils'?" The girl questioned, teasing the Wyrm a bit. Avaline had been but a giant land dragon until now after all. It wouldn't be too weird that she didn't quite know what utensils were, or cooked food. "I mean, I don't mind teaching you how to use these things."

Luna watched their conversation lightly before she noticed Sorcha go and wake up Maoin... And the cat had just said something very... Yea... Luna made sure she was nearby just in case. She knew Sorcha well, but she didn't know the warlord side of Sorcha very much. One of the downsides of that part of their relationship.

Then it dawned on her, Marie! Right! After giving Sorcha a light pat on the head, Luna made her way over to where the demon was. "Marie, we learned something after you left. Apparently, Avaline was sent after you. Err, that is, the Wyrm. It was sent after you-- She was-- Anyhow, someone apparently told her she'd make friends if she attacked or killed you. I made her a familiar so she could speak. Anyways, keep an eye out."