[IC] Rise of the Shield Hero - From Another World

[vancexentan]

"Taking turns is a perfectly fine idea would you like to dance with Ferr first? Or did you have your eyes on me? I'm sure it may be clumsy at first but its...a more intimate dance than what some may think. Its about trying to...find a good steady motion with your partner." Cole tries to explain as he himself has only danced with family at weddings meaning he can only think about, and explain the whole process so much. "You're good at looking right Rivia? Can you take a look at some of the people dancing around this hall?" Cole asks as he looks over himself finding the whole process a bit hard he points out a couple of people on the far side of the hall who were dancing away from the large group to try and make it easier on his new friend.



"See that? Its sort of like that you need hands locked, going 'round in a circle taking in everything your partner is doing. Avoid stepping on their feet, and you'll get it down in no time. The man leads normally but...women here seem to be quite willing to lead the men in this country it seems." Cole observes a bit his tone changing to that of slight surprise as he is just now noticing that the women seem to be in the lead position if they're not dancing with an older gentleman. "Its not particularly supposed to be...uh romantic so to speak its more of...enjoying the moment with someone. In the moment of human dancing its you, and the other person. No one else needs to matter while you do your thing. Its like enjoying a talk with a friend in a more closer fashion." Cole says as he tries to do his best to have it make sense to someone who hasn't thought of being at a party. "But...this was just a suggestion if you prefer we can go pig out on the food, and then go off for a night of training afterward." Cole says his smile still on his face. "Ferr's probably already thinking about food anyway. Glutton that he is." He says in a teasing fashion.

[Omni5876]

Fer almost chuckled at Cole’s fatherly explanation regarding the woes and dangers of not conforming to social norms when Rivia eagerly stated he would teach the pair of heroes. Perhaps the Sword was younger than he but in this short time, his partner had seemed to mature into a veritable hero. In essence Cole was the de facto father figure. Then again, perhaps the blonde lad had always been this stoic and weight of the world on his shoulders type of guy. It occurred to him that he knew practically nothing of his fellow hero. The idea did not sit well with him. Their whole group was built upon trust and blind faith.

The shield shook his head to clear it of the dark thoughts that were starting to take roots in his mind. Cole’s explanation regarding the sensitivity of nobles did not help any. Here was a young lady basically willing to risk her life in defense of a kingdom which had people that cared only for appearances. Unconsciously he squeezed the wolf girl’s hand slightly. He felt a sort of kinship with Rivia. He had felt the same looks fall upon him merely for being the user of the shield.

His companion’s smile warmed even his heart. Not really because he was inspired by his speech but because he knew that Cole believed every word he was saying. Fer was beginning to believe that his mission was not only to conquer the waves and return home but to ensure that Cole lived up to the expectations he was putting on himself. After all, a shield is meant to protect. Be it soft flesh or heroic dreams.
Speaking of dreams, it seemed that the wolf girl had dreams of her own. What those dreams could be, Fer did not know but he could guess that they had to do with victory and glory. The almost innocent smile on her face made him remember his own little brother. He had been full of dreams. Again his hand squeezed Rivia’s unconsciously. Was he perhaps feeling some sort of sadness and fear for the girl’s future?

He sensed the young wolf girl looking up at him and even his tanned face became red but he did not let go. The young hero had interlaced his fingers on hers to show solidarity. It suddenly occurred to him that this was the way lovers held hands while walking round the central town plaza after Sunday service or during a Fair night. His cheeks felt impossibly hot and he turned away from the tilted questioning head of Rivia.

Thankfully Cole came to the rescue, ever the hero. Apparently his speech inspired the demi human who whole heartedly agreed with his blonde companion’s decry of being the protectors of the realm and the victors of the waves to come. The distraction was enough to allow Fer to let go of the young girl’s hand as smoothly as he could.

"Then can Ferr and Cole teach Rivia? Human dances that is. Rivia wants to fit in and not be a nuisance or hassle. It's what Father always wanted."

It appeared his retreat would not be as so easily attained. He had hoped to let Cole take lead. It seemed he was comfortable around girls. Fer, despite his outward behavior, was not too comfortable around the fairer sex. In fact, the only reason why he was able to function with Auriel around was because he saw her as an devine being more than a female.

Rivia had also been a safe bet to be around. Rough and tomboyish with her cute ears and fluffy tail she seemed more of a pet than a girl. It was not until he noticed he how his hand holding could be misconstrued and her looking up at him with her big grey eyes and soft face that he acknowledged she was a girl. The young shield had been all for dancing and cavorting to enjoy the festivities that were supposedly in their honor. But now, his confidence was slowly deserting him like sand trickling out a sack cloth bag with a tear in it.

"And if we can't dance together...then could we take turns?"

He gulped. His throat feeling suddenly dry. Fer’s eyes turned to once more seek support or rescue from the gleaming Sword Hero. He almost made a silent plea to his companion. It was not that he had anything against a demi human. In fact, he was curious about the unique mix between human and beast. It was things like this that reminded him he was in a fantasy world.

Still, a lad could still be shy around demi human lasses just the same. No amount of magic could change that. No magic could save him from this awkward situation except maybe Cole’s uncanny heroism and knack for winning hearts over due to his magnanimity and natural gravity or perhaps the sudden appearance of a divine being crashing through the banquet hall doors to draw attention elsewhere.
Thankfully, Cole, true to his calling managed to diffuse the situation. Then again, maybe he made it a bit worse. As the Sword hero explained the intimacies and closeness of the dance he used as an example, it made Fer have to acknowledge that no matter what, he would be in a very personal distance to his partner….whomever it may be. His own eyes regarded the lords and ladies dancing in the hall. These, he knew, had trained since childhood for such events. They glided effortlessly through he dancing floor as if on ice.

Suddenly, a realization came to mind. Rivia would not be like one of those ladies thinking they were being courted. The young wolf girl would more likely than not transpose what Cole was saying into a sort of martial training. If one looked at it, the dancers were nothing more than trained fighters performing a mock dance like he had witnessed in his own town where dancers swung machetes at each other .

This realization seemed to strengthened the Shield’s resolve. Especially because Cole mentioned how some dancers might be adding the romantic element to their shared experience. The young Shield hero looked in Rivia’s direction trying to see if he could guess what she was thinking. When his blonde companion mentioned food Fer almost praised him for his ability to divert the young girl’s attention from the awkwardness of the dance as it stood to something that was logical and could be accomplished without any hidden meaning.

Fer particularly appreciated how Cole had given him the opportunity to break away by agreeing that he was indeed a glutton and that a cart of food might be more interesting than a social dance. However, he wondered how Rivia might see it. This appeared to be her first interaction with humans and the young hero did not want her opinion and view, especially of the Legendary Heroes, to sour.
His baritone voice spoke up easily enough. “Honestly, my only aim is to get to know our new companion more. If that means dancing then so be it. If it means sharing a meal and breaking bread together, I am up for that too. So Rivia, it appears that it falls to you to choose and for me and Cole to oblige.”

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

Oblivious to Fers dilemma, it was only Cole grabbing her attention that saved him from an awkward explanation. She wasn't sure who she wanted to dance with first, so she tucked the thought away for now at least as her attention was moved from the sword hero to the dancers around them. Flashy, colourful dresses. Constant swaying and spinning. It was certainly a lot of motion, though she wasn't sure why they were spinning so much. Wouldn't you get dizzy and fall over? She felt dizzy just from trying to track them, so just shook her head as she looked away. The main thing she had gotten was that they were moving to the beat of the slow music filling the air. She didn't have much of a clue what he meant by 'lead' till she looked back, cocking her head to the side as she now noticed the first one to move was indeed the ladies, with the gentlemen following suit and the motion flowing on from there.

Tapping her chin thoughtfully, she supposed a dance always sparked off from one individual and then the rest flowed on from there. But they were so close, it would be hard to do as Cole said to do; avoid stepping on one another, no? Suppose that once again came down to the rhythm, the motion of the dancers. Moving like flowing water across the dancefloor.

The explanation of it being romantic or not was lost on Rivia for the most part though. Whether they even had the same standards and values for such a thing remained to be seen. "Rivia wouldn't mind dancing first. Rivia wants to try." Such nimble movements, coordination, the deft, subtle changes to suit both the partner and the pace of the song. There was no doubt about it. It would make a fine training exercise as well if she can get the hang of it! And this seemed like as good a time to learn it.

Plus there was always food later. Unlike how worn her current attire was, she wasn't exactly struggling to get by on food. She was a good hunter and excellent forager after all. If anything, the current swirling and mixing of scents and aromas was a bit off-putting when it came to the food. Less because most were a mystery, but mostly because it just seemed...strong. There was nothing wrong with a lightly seasoned meal...

"Umm...suppose Rivia will dance with Fer first? Then Fer can go and eat while Rivia and Cole dance. Moving on a full stomach is bad. Causes great pain after all." Nodding her head and crossing her arms over her chest, she seemed quite proud of herself for knowing what was a common fact for them in their worlds; stitches existing. Not that such a world existed among her tribe. Especially if Fer ate as Cole said he did; then he could become immobilised almost entirely!

[Whoami]

Late to the Party

(Mood Music)

Auriel left the powder room with a frustrated sigh. The blood had taken so long to come off, and it hadn't even entirely come out! Thankfully, the blood stain would be noticeable on her white dress if somebody was really looking for it. And with all of the motion causing her dress to sway, it'd at least be hard to pick out. Auriel had one other advantage to keeping the bloodstain hidden, and that was because she was so late. The party had gone on long before she would arrive. People would likely have had more than one drink, and surely the frivolities of the upper class will have dulled the senses of all of the party-goers too much to notice a small thing like the blood spatter of a broken nose.

Auriel stood in front of the great doors leading to the throne room. She reached for one of the door handles and looked around over her shoulder again, double checking to make sure she wasn't about to get another rude interruption. Seeing that she was clear, Auriel took the handle in her hand, and pulled the door open. She stepped through the doors to see the center of the room was host to a large swirl of dancing couples. Dancing was never her thing, not because she didn't like it, but because her wings were rather clumsy and required too much room to allow others enjoy a shared floor. That often meant that when Auriel was on the floor, she and her dance partner were the only ones of the floor, and such things usually led to Auriel being very self conscious and nervous. She would avoid the dancing.

Auriel was very quickly intercepted by a well dress man, a butler and one of the hosts of the party. He bowed and held out a large platter with glasses of wine neatly placed on it. Auriel smiled and took a glass of wine before the man stood straight, turned his full body to face the ballroom, and cleared his throat. Auriel was in the middle of sip when she realized what he was about to do. She quickly swallowed her sip of wine, "Mm- No-"

"Introducing Lady Auriel! Holy Warrior of the Church of the Four! The Guardian Angel and Companion of both the Sword and the Shield heroes!" he said, his nasally voice was clear and loud enough to echo across the hall.

Auriel had her face planted firmly in her palm when all eyes turned on her. She never got used to being announced. Even after all of these years, it always made her feel like she had to give some speech or perform some sort of trick to keep up with the magnificence of being announced. Auriel took a breath and lowered her hand from her face before smiling to the party-goers. "Erm... Greetings, my lords and ladies. Apologies for my tardiness. Heh... Eh..." Gods this was awkward! "Please! Don't stop the fun on my account! I am glad I can finally partake!"

There were some chuckles here and there and it seemed the energy was returning back to normal. Auriel let out a long sigh of relief and sipped her wine. She glanced sidelong as the butler who had announced her, "Thank you, sir. Er... Perhaps next time we can make my arrival a little less... Significant?"

The butler laughed and nodded, "Of course, milady. Please, enjoy the gala- but first, could I interest you in another glass? T'would seem in your attempt to catch up with the rest of the guests, your glass in nearly empty already."

Auriel blinked and looked back at wine glass. Did she really drink that much already? Oh heavens... Auriel's mind snapped back to when she had gone to the tavern with Cole and Fer before they left to help the farmer with their bandit problem. She was such a lightweight, and she could already feel the wine. Auriel cleared her throat awkwardly and blushed, a sign of embarrassment that was always easy to spot on her fair cheeks. "N- no, thank you. One glass is more than enough for me to catch up, it seems."

"Very well, milady. I believe I have accosted you enough for tonight. I will leave you be. If you change your mind for another drink later on though, you'll find I answer to summons quite quickly." he said jovially.

Auriel nodded slowly at that, "Ah, yes. Well that makes one of us." How late had Auriel been? Two hours? Three? With her mother's remorseless training, Calder's romantic pursuits, the gate guard's unshakable sense of duty, and Bander's childish rivalry and ensuing staining of her favorite dress with his blood, Auriel's luck couldn't have been much worse for finding interruptions. Not that all of it had been bad.

Auriel straightened her white dress a bit and scanned the crowd with her golden hues. It didn't take long to spot Fer standing on his own. She followed his gaze and found Cole among the crowd of dancers with... A demi-human? Who was that? She had never seen her in the palace before, and she had spent a lot of time in the palace growing up. Was he some demi-human nobleman's daughter from Shieldfreeden? Not likely with Zeltoble's general air of distaste for demi-humans. A slave then? More likely, but why would someone's slave be dancing with the country's nobility? She was a guest then. Not a slave. But also not a noble from Shieldfreeden... She had to be a guest's 'plus one' then, or perhaps part of an entourage. Or perhaps... No? Yes? Did they have a new member in their party that Auriel wasn't around to greet?!

Auriel made her way into the crowd, smiling, greeting, and being trapped in small bouts of gossip. As she maneuvered through the social minefield, she finally made her way to Fer's side. With the host announcing her arrival, she didn't need to tell Fer that she was finally at the party. She cleared her throat and let out another long breath, "You look charming." she said to Fer, noting the attire that the king's staff had no doubt put him in. He actually looked like he belonged to this world, even though Auriel knew he was entirely foreign. "Truly a member of Zeltoble's highest aristocracy."

Auriel brought her spear behind her and nestled it horizontally against the small of her back. She held it with both hands and did a curtsy in her white dress. It was difficult to tell if she was being ironic or genuine with the noble mannerisms, especially to a man who was very much against high born tyrants from his own world. When she straightened out, Auriel rested the butt end of the spear on the marble flooring and held it straight up. She brushed some of her golden bangs from her face and pouted a bit, "I'm sorry I'm so late. What was supposed to be one thing turned into several... several things, all in quick succession of one another. Did I miss anything important? Notably an introduction to her?" she cast a sidelong glance at the demi-human girl with a slight nudge of her head in Rivia's and Cole's direction.

[vancexentan]

Cole snickered as he looked over to Rivia, and nodded his head. "By all means take your time, and enjoy yourself after all this whole party is being thrown in the honor of us. Being a new member to the party is good to foster good relations within the party. Even if Fer seems to be more popular with the ladies than I am." Cole said with a good hearted smile as he looked over to Auriel and had to blink a few times before he noticed the wings. "So you don't just wear battle armor all day, and work at the church? And here I thought you'd have given up, and decided we were better off getting drunk by ourselves." Cole says to Auriel as he looks over her taking in the change of clothes. He had only really seen her in her battle gear, and casual outfit, and the look change at least made it clear she wasn't all business. "I'm not sure if Rivia would rather introduce herself but...she's the newest addition to our little party. The king seemed to have found another young adventurer not take up by Matsunaga, or The Spear Hero. It looks like we'll be travelling together soon...then again I remember that dude from the bounty office, and how he vanished and got lost in the woods so...who knows." Cole said shrugging as he tried to remember what exactly happened to that person. He just kind of...wandered off? Who knew? More important now would be a better time to focus on the matters at hand.

"It looks like Ferr, and Rivia will be having a brief dance. I hope that doesn't matter to the shield hero's one and only true party member." Cole says to her as he wonders if that would make Auriel think a little bit more of the scenario at hand in the matter. He wasn't exactly sure if Rivia even cared, or knew what was going on but he may as well air out things before something happened.

[Omni5876]

Fer followed Rivia’s line of sight towards the dancers. They looked like leaves in the wind. Spiraling through eh dance floor with seeming no rhyme or reason. Yet, at the same time the twirls timed as not to collide with the dancers next to them. A slight smile appeared on the young man’s face. The wolf girl was quite evident a smart one. Despite her lack of human society knowledge, she was brighter than many would acknowledge, to their detriment. Her sharp eyes picked up on the subtle cues that many took for granted.

"Rivia wouldn't mind dancing first. Rivia wants to try."

The declaration brought Fer back to the current situation and very suddenly reminded him of his own peril. Washed in a wave of awkwardness so suddenly he shivered ever so slightly. Still he managed to smile and nod his head in acquiescence. If he had known that to the demi human, the action would be no more than a practice of skill, the young Shield hero might be more relaxed. As it was, he wondered what her next decision of dancing partner would be. Cole’s comment about being a lady’s man did not help with Fer’s awkwardness. His answer came soon enough though.

"Umm...suppose Rivia will dance with Fer first? Then Fer can go and eat while Rivia and Cole dance. Moving on a full stomach is bad. Causes great pain after all."

Fer actually chuckled at her innocent appraisal and logic. The thin smile on his face widened and the small dimples on his cheeks actually showed. “Rivia, it would be my pleasure to be your dance partner. Though as Cole mentioned earlier watch out for my two left feet…” Realizing she might misunderstand the play on words he explained. “Having two left feet only means I am a bad dancer.” He was saved from further explanation by the loud shrill voice that rose over music and clatter.

"Introducing Lady Auriel! Holy Warrior of the Church of the Four! The Guardian Angel and Companion of both the Sword and the Shield heroes!"

Many eyes turned towards the speaker, Fer one of them. The young hero let out an almost inaudible gasp. None but sharp canine ears could have caught it. Her voice travelled across the hall but what she said was lost on him. His eyes were glued to the image of the winged warrior in her white dress. She looked very much like the angel he had first assumed her to be. Though in that dress, she was more. As she got nearer, his eyes still glued to her, the young man noticed barely discernible reddish spots that could have been mistaken as rubies or elaborate dying of the cloth. These spots did not seem out of place in the bodice belonging to a warrior angel.

Suddenly, Fer’s own face started turning red also. He had noticed that he was giving his holy companion undue attention. He had done the same to their wolf eared one too. “What the hell is wrong with me?” He demanded of himself. The young hero had been too keen in noticing the feminine and beauty aspects of these two warriors. Why was that? Was it because he was finally subscribed to the fact that this was not a dream or some sort of delusion? That these people were actually flesh and blood and not some figment of his imagination? Whatever the case, he needed to curb these teenage urges.

Thankfully, by the time Auriel made it to the trio, the young hero had more or less composed himself. Only a slight pink hue was left and this could be attributed to perhaps wine drinking or dancing exertion. He thanked his God for the darker complexion of his that hid it at least some.

"You look charming. . Truly a member of Zeltoble's highest aristocracy."

Fer managed to keep his composure as Auriel addressed him. “Um..” He started, a questioning smile at her comment. Was she being playful? Compared to the golden clad Cole, he was a pauper in hastily cleaned mail and worn and frayed cape that doubled as his travel cloak. She could not be playing, after all, Fer did not even know if the usually serious and dutiful angelic warrior even knew how to jest. Therefore, she must be trying to be polite. So, the young hero chose to take the compliment.

He bowed slightly and nodded in her direction. “If I am nobility, then you do honor to this world’s holy ranks Auriel. In my world, you would be revered. You look lovely.” Was all he managed to say before he felt the flush start to over take his face once more. He cleared his throat. “No need to apologize. You missed the boring parts perfectly.” Fer was about to introduce their newest member when Cole, ever the leader, did it for him. It seemed their fearless leader was also not affected by the formal dress their angelic companion was sporting. It made the Shield a little jealous of his male partner’s composure.

When Cole mentioned the Shield’s impending dance with Rivia, Fer jumped in. “My services have been requested by Miss Rivia here but I am sure that Cole would be more than happy to oblige you a dance as well Auriel. After all, I should not be the one to have all the fun.” A naughty smirk appeared on the young shield’s face. Payback for all the jeers in his direction. He offered his own hand to the wolf girl trying to escape the scene before Cole thought up any witty comeback.

His mind suddenly made a discovery. Cole and Auriel would make a much more perfect pair in the eyes of high society. The Sword was the King’s own recognized hero. Looking very much the part, he was just as eye catching as Auriel with her big white wings and magnificent dress. With the wolf girl as his partner, he was unknowingly looking even more like the Shield hero. Unknown to him, there was certain perception of who the Shield was and conferring with demi humans was one of these.

A smile crossed his lips as he looked at Rivia once introductions had been done. “Are you ready to suffer my two left feet?” His mind needed distraction as it had started to go down rabbit holes that did not have pleasant ends.

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

Oblivious to the rib jabbing Ferr was receiving from Cole, she just nodded her head. So, it was decided then? It seemed like Ferr was happy enough to agree, as was Cole. She was about ready to go to the dance floor with Ferr when her ears shot up, her body tensing up at the loud voice. She seemed to quickly relax though her eyes darted around for a moment. It seemed like the rest of the party goers attention had also turned to where the voice had come from, but considering the feel of the room there didn't seem to be danger? She looked at Ferr, following his gaze to the blonde, winged woman approaching. Even from afar, Rivia could tell this person wasn't like the majority of those here. The way she carried herself as she walked, her stature...there was no doubting it. She was a warrior. She just gave off that feel, that aura. There was also the slight stench of blood emanating from her, confirming this thought of Rivia's. Well, that and the spear she was carrying helped with this deduction of Rivia's.

And she was approaching?

As she began conversing with Cole and Ferr, Rivia's gaze wandered around the room for a moment before snapping to attention when she heard her name being mentioned. Wait, this was the other member of their party that Cole and Ferr had been mentioning was on their way? "Yes, Rivia can introduce herself." Tilting her head, Rivia seemed to study the other girl for a moment before nodding. For what reason she didn't seem to make clear. "Rivia Silvermane. You are friend correct? Rivia hopes to get along with you...same with Ferr and Cole." And she continued nodding as she talked, though her attention moved to Cole now.

What was he talking about? Bounty office person? And what was wrong with a dance? Was Auriel Ferrs mate or something? She wasn't sure on this, it was hard to get a proper read on this situation despite her best efforts at trying to. It didn't seem like that? But humans were weird...not that Auriel was human with those wings. Unless all humans had wings and Rivia didn't know? There was much she didn't know about humans so maybe?

Once more her attention snapped from the confines of her mind by one of the heroes voices, this time the voice belonging to Ferr as he spoke to her, nodding in agreement. Looking at his outstretched hand for a moment she reached out with her own and grabbed his with a surprisingly strong grip for someone of her stature. Or maybe it wasn't surprising considering her upbringing and behaviour up to this point? She didn't seem to know how to hold someones hand properly without crushing it though. "Rivia will be fine. Two left feet can't be any worse than wrestling a cream alligator."

With her no doubt guided to the dance floor, with the observations she had made she stepped closer to Ferr, a hand on his shoulder as the other stayed gripping his hand perhaps a little too tightly. "This is how it goes yes? Rivia isn't too sure."

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

[color=003471][/color][color=003471][/color]"This is how it goes yes? Rivia isn't too sure." Gripping his shoulder and hand with her own with a surprisingly, or perhaps unsurprisingly, amount of grip strength the wolf demi-girl looked up at him almost expectantly. She was looking to him to lead the way, at least at first, seeing as she wasn’t familiar with this form of dancing.

The fact that the wolf girl looked…well like a wolf, helped some but now that he was so close, Fer could not help but notice that she was indeed…well a girl. Her strong hands rested on his shoulder and he gingerly placed his own on her waist, the other holding her other hand. He noticed how there seemed to be a small fuzz covering the top of her hands and the sharp nails as her hand (paw?) curled over his own.

He was thankful for the Catholic sisters that ran his rural school back on Earth that taught him how to dance for the Quinceaneras. Otherwise, his threat of having two left feet would have become very real. As it was, he was having trouble concentrating. He was an inch or two taller than Rivia so he looked down at her, the twitching furry ears of hers making him look and stare. The fluffy tail would swish and wag over his hand. “Yeah, I think so. You learn quickly.” The hand around her waist tightened when she started to lag behind just a smidge. Realizing that made him gulp nervously.

Rivia was too inexperienced in such dances to know if Fer was any good at them or not anyway, but she could sense the tension within him. Though she knew not what was putting the man on edge, one could tell by the way he gripped, the way he breathed, the slight stiffness to how he moved. Was Rivia the cause of putting him on edge? She wasn’t sure. It wasn’t the first time, nor would it ever be the last time if it was indeed the case.

Of course, she was thinking this for entirely different reasons than the one Fer was currently subjected to. Blissfully ignorant, she swayed somewhat out of time with him, her brows furrowing in annoyance. She was out of sync with him and out of tempo with the music. She at least understood this much, but she was also confused why this dance was so…slow? It was putting her off as she tried to go slow, but she could feel by Fers grip she was going a little too slow…wait could this dance be purposefully slow to allow one to train their timing? After all, not everything needed to be at a faster pace.

“Rivia always has been quick to learn.” Nodding to herself as she seemed to work out how to do this ‘training’ in her mind. She stepped in a little closer now, her eyes training onto his moving limbs as she continued to try to match him. “If you don’t learn quick, then you’ll die fast. That’s what Father always said.”

Her speech actually made Fer relax. The young Shield Hero did not know how old Rivia was exactly but when she spoke she sounded so innocent that he could not help but think of her as a little sister. This helped him relax and it actually helped with their tempo as he began to also become more fluid as they swayed and twirled. He chuckled at her example of death to those who did not adapt. The same was true in social situations. These sort of dances were how high class nobles also did battle.

“Well, I can say that you will learn the party dynamics pretty quick. You will certainly be of much use…unlike me.” He chided but there was a hint of truth. He felt that he did not apport much to the party. His quick gloom had caused him to misjudge the distance between them and another couple. In order to avoid a collision, he pulled Rivia hard against him using his strength to stop their momentum. He was not a hulking man but the enhanced strength given to him by the Shield would definitely be felt by the wolf girl as she was forcefully pulled. “Sorry about that Rivia. I was not paying attention.”

Fer used this as a signal that perhaps it would be best if the two of them took a break. “I think you have suffered my company enough. I am sure Cole will perhaps be a better partner.” In truth, he was more embarrassed about his private thoughts regarding his role in the party than the dancing. Still, he hoped that he and the demi human had bonded enough. “If you still feel adventurous, I may dance one or two more songs after you give Cole a try.” He smiled kindly at her. Yes, thinking of her as a little sister did help.

The movements she had no problem following, as she seemed to be light on her feet as they moved in their circular motion around the dance floor. It was really just a matter of the timing, which she was slowly getting a handle on as Fer seemed to relax more. At his comments, her ear twitched for a moment. She went to say something but at that moment, she was dragged in close to him.

It was so sudden she hadn’t even realised it had happened till her face was being smothered into his chest. Her attention had sorely been on the rhythm of their dance, long had she forgotten about the other dancers. So she hadn’t even realised they were about to collide and instead thought that this was part of the dance. Was she meant to pull on him back? Just as that thought entered her mind, he suggested they stop.

Her ears seemed to drop at such a suggestion but nonetheless, she nodded as she looked back up at him. Nodding as if agreeing with the words that followed, she began to speak. “It’s fine. Fer is good at dancing, Rivia can tell.” She wasn’t really one for flattery, so she meant it. At least she could convey that properly even without words. As they made their way back to the others, she felt the need to pipe up about one thing, however, having been cut off before.

“Fer is useful. Fer is strong, Rivia knows. Rivia can tell. Keep at it.”

The young hero did notice the drooping of her ears at having to stop. In her eyes, he could see that this was a challenge she meant to conquer. The wolf girl did indeed have much drive. Fer was certain that translated very easily into courage in the battle field. All of Rivia’s comments regarding battle and skill meant that she was a good warrior. So he did indeed feel bad about making her stop. “Thank you Rivia. It is kind of you to not berate my dancing skills. I would be glad to share another dance once you are done with Cole.”

He hoped that this invitation would make up for his abrupt stop of their current session. As they walked back, he could not help but notice again how regal both Cole and Auriel looked. They almost complemented each other. He would not say that Rivia and he were more alike. The wolf girl had an air of leadership. After all, she did say her father was the tribe’s leader. Humble she may be but she was as noble as any here. Only he did not truly fit in.

The hero was brought out of his musings by her encouragement. He chuckled and smiled at thankful for her praise. “Again, thank you Rivia. That is high praise coming from a warrior such as yourself. Dont worry, I will not cry myself to sleep over my shortcomings. I actually hope that I can learn some things from you.” Again he gave her a smile one would give a younger sibling.

The pair approached their other friends. “Well Cole, I guess it is your turn to share the floor with Rivia. I hope her feet are still in good use after suffering my two left ones.” He chided looking sideways at her and winking. Turning to Auriel he bowed and extended his hand. “Do you dare to rise up to such a challenge Auriel? We can see if your battle training has prepared you for this.” The mood was light. Few would think that the four of them would soon face the dreaded waves.

[vancexentan]

Cole claps his hands, as well as a number of the more fairer nobles of the group gathered as few as they may be. The legacy of the shield hero is not quite as prestigious in the church as some would like but he was still one of the four. Cole thought the dance went well especially considering the context of the animal girl's first human dance being something like that. As well as Ferr's own inexperience it was clumsy but not quite as bad as it could've been. As he chuckled at the question posed towards Auriel, Cole himself chuckled. "I fancy Auriel feels more comfortable in battle garb than a dress but I would be careful of his feet out there Auriel if you choose to take on your lord's challenge." Cole began as suddenly he caught wind of another tune different from the people playing for the people at hand. Unlike the violins this was a woodwind instrument a flute. As Cole looked around for the tune of the noise because he could feel the magical power emanating from the song almost as if it demanded his attention. "I present to you all the slayer of wolves, mountain lions, and bane of all those who call the sky home her excellence the Bo-" started the attendant at the door as suddenly he was shoved aside by a burly looking young man. Cole immediately felt alarmed by what he saw next in scarily rapid succession he, and everyone else heard her clearly. "Behold me across the sky streaks the holy light, it will extinguish all evil! Flare Shot!" Rin Matsunaga shouted clad in not a dress, or any type of suit but her battle armor as suddenly and as boldly as she entered the room. Cole felt sluggish his body not moving naturally it was like his limbs were made of jelly. He couldn't stop her was it the music the handsome bard next to her was playing on the flute.

The shot rang up towards the chandelier and exploded sending a absolutely blinding amount of light around the room to anyone who dared follow the arrow with their eyes. Even those who did not were met with the cold sting at their eyes as if someone had suddenly placed the summer sun right in their faces a few minutes away. The arrow not only sent the chandelier falling, but also obscured what was happening next as the next words rung cold in Cole's ears. "Pierce Evil! Pierce the world itself! My will demands it! ---- shot!" Rin Matsunaga said furious as if she was the one being attacked her instead of the attacker. For some reason her call shot was obscured it sounded as if it were gibberish. Regardless Cole's movements finally catching up to what he intended to do was his hope of stopping this mess, he unsheathed his sword. "My will unbound break my limits, and break the wills of my enemies! Meteor Strike!" Cole called out as he let loose a strong wave of energy. Matsunaga's eyes widened slightly surprised as suddenly one of the young ladies whom was following jogged forward in front of her. "Shield us! A barrier is erected in this time of need!" she called out as she threw up a barrier wall of blue energy in front of her. Regardless confident that his meteor strike would beat Rin's attack he moved forward.

Cole's meteor strike surged forward as well...and went right through the attack of the bow hero. His eyes widened in fear as the arrow came within seconds of hitting him. Why would Matsunaga do this? How could she do this? Then the words caught up to Cole's Ears. "Mirage Shot!" Cole's eyes widened, "A fucking debuf-" Cole said as suddenly the arrow popped in the air in front of him and he felt his entire body spasm. He gagged and nearly fell over like someone had suddenly smacked him in the face with something ridiculously foul. The Meteor strike surged forward towards the shield wall and impacted with it heavily. The mage follower of The Bow Hero struggled, and her strength gave way the meteor strike broke the shield and the soldier grabbed the mage sending her to the floor as Matsunaga quickly sided step the impact of the meteor strike leaving a massive impact mark on the wall behind it. Cole struggled to stay on his feet. As Rin approached him ignoring her fallen comrades and punched Cole square in the jaw sending him back but not to the floor as he staggered. "You! You're fucking with me aren't you! Think you're fucking better than me! Fuck you! Fucking dick head bitch ass mother fucker!" Rin said enraged as she tried to punch Cole again but this time he dodged only to be met with a smack to the face by the bow hero's bow. "There's three fucking people of worth in this shit hole kingdom and you're doing this! What a load! SOME HERO OF THE PEOPLE YOU ARE." she said with venomous words as she prepared to hit Cole again. He could only mouth out, "What the hell!? What are you on about!?"

[Omni5876]

The young shield hero regarded the clapping people around him with hint of embarrassment. It had not been his aim to be the center of attention but he had been a fool to think that none would pay attention to him even if he was not Cole. After all, there would be those who would delight in documenting and witnessing any of his faux pass if possible. Why that was, he could not accurately say but scenes like this reminded him that he was always to be on the alert. The political world of court was not a game he knew how to play.

As it was, he was still enjoying spending time other than training with his companions. Though he could guess that both Auriel and Rivia would much rather spend their time sparring. Both were warrior women and battle would always be their first love. The man who won their hearts would have to brave indeed.

The young shield hero had to agree with his fellow hero regarding Auriel and her garb. However, the way she ported herself, there was no doubt that she had at least received some sort of court training. After all, the church was a very influential presence in the kingdom. Even in his own world, there were times when priests and deacons were seen as above the law and holding their own law that the local magistrates could not fully challenge.

Fer had started towards Auriel when the change in music began. He felt dizzy, as if he had just stood up too fast. His ears followed the sound of the speaking voice of the herald. There was no need for introductions. Somehow, his jewel bracelet gleamed slightly and the shield hero knew he was in the presence of yet another Legendary Hero. Seeing as he had met, at least briefly, the Spear hero and he travelled with the Sword, this must be the Bow hero.

A sudden jealousy surged inside the Hispanic male. If he was the user of the Bow he could apply all the skills he had learned and be much more useful to the party. Why had this world decided to give him something he was not trained in? How had he even been selected for that task? There were many questions involving his receipt of the Shield. Questions that would have to be left to latter to be answered.
The wielder of the bow was anything but subtle or sneak as most users of bows are. In fact, she was boisterous and bullyish. Something you would expect of an ax or mace wielder. More surprises awaited Fer as the Bow shot a sparkling arrow to the chandelier. His eyes burned with the last image they had beheld before the room exploded in brightness. Add rashness to the growing lists of faults he was fiding with the newly arrived Hero.

In reaction, the bracer that housed his shield in his arm glowed and a burst of light later found Fer sporting a regular looking Heather shield. Even blinking his eyes, the young hero could do very little other that guess what was happening as he heard shouts around him between Matsunaga and Cole. Where they fighting? He tried moving towards the sound of Cole’s shouting. At least he could offer his shield as protection.

His body moved slowly, as if walking in water. However, thanks to his shield given enhancement, he was much faster than possibly even the others in his company. Still, the feeling of being weaker alarmed him. His resiliency was one of the few things he brought to the party. By this time, his eyes were at least able to see blurry. In time to see Cole go down on one knee. The sound his companion emitted alarmed the shield hero. He rushed as fast as he could to get in front of his companion and shield him

“Cole! Are you alright? What the hell is going on?” His own concerned questions were drowned out by Matsunaga’s foul mouth. Through teary eyes he saw the two struggling figures. Was she punching him? What the hell was her problem? What had Cole ever done to her? In a few more steps he would be upon them.

Using his shield as a battering ram, Fer used all his power to crash into Matsunaga. He hoped his momentum would send the Bow hero flying. Hopefully Rivia and Auriel had not been as foolish as he and watched the arrow fly but he had been mesmerized by the shining arc it had made. His first priority was to protect Cole and then to subdue this rampaging bitch.

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

All seemed to be well with the group as the duo returned, though Rivia seemed a little disappointed for it to end so soon. She thought she was just starting to get the hang of it but suppose she would have a chance to do with Cole now. Or at least that was the plan, but as she went to talk to Cole after he was done speaking Rivia suddenly clamped her hands over her ears. What was this sudden debilitating noise? Rivia let out a mix of a growl and a whimper as herself and everyone around her felt their bodies suddenly become lethargic. What in the goddamn hell was this screech? Now Rivia was no stranger to music, but this melody was something demonic to her as she dropped to the ground, curling up in a ball as she desperately tried to keep the noise out of her ears. She barely even heard the follow up explosion from Rin's ability, it was only when the entire area became a lot more lit did she finally strain her eyes open, pain evident on her face as she blurrily saw someone attacking Cole.

Ferr was quicker to move than her, getting between Cole and Rin by attempting to slam into the bow hero. Finally getting her bearings back, she felt something far more intense than the pain in her ears. Anger. Adrenaline. With another snarl, as Ferr slammed into Rin Rivia would scramble to her feet, drawing her dagger in the same instance before winding back and chucking it at the bard. Even as the sharp projectile made its way to the man with the accursed musical instrument, she began to rapidly close the distance between her and that screeching annoyance. If he was the one causing this pain, then he was her target. She was sure Cole and Ferr could handle whoever the hell it was attacking Cole. She ran across tables, her movements more akin to a wild animal than any form of finesse as she just kept pulling out more daggers and continued her assault on the bard even as she closed the gap.

And if someone got in her way? She wasn't going to be afraid to either cut them down, push or shove them, or just simply wind back and knock them the fuck out. Her eyes never once left the bard as she fixated her entire attention on him, leaving no doubt she was coming for him.

[vancexentan]

"Lessen impact!" shouted the young mage girl who had been saved by her warrior friend as she managed to stand up back on her feet. The spell cast directly on her party leader, Rin Matsunaga, caused the frontal bash of Ferr to feel like little more than a playful shove. It would seem Rin's group had been doing their homework Cole said as he coughed heavily unable to fully concentrate due to the effects of mirage shot. Rin growled as she looked at Ferr, "What the fuck do you want you god damn stooge? Shouldn't you be off taking a cannon ball to the face for some orphan or some shit?" Rin growled at him as she saw the animal girl, Rivia, charge at her bard. "Cassus! ON YOU"! Rin said as she shifted back to Ferr pushing back at him with surprising vigor. "If you don't fucking mind the real heroes are trying to figure out why the sword is being a colossal tool!" Rin told off Ferr as she glared back at Cole, "So how about it huh?! You wanna explain why you're not saving the fucking world huh!? I'm out there hunting fucking mountain lions, shitting on bandits, and helping these useless fuck nobles and YOU are the one who's partying? What was that bandit bitch you caught the one causing the waves?! Because last time I looked at that stupid fucking dragon hourglass time was still ticking!" Rin glared knives into Cole's soul. "We're heroes...we're suppose to...inspire." Cole tried to say as Rin spit on him. "I'm a fucking gangster and I've been more of a fucking hero in the past few days than you're even going to be at this rate you twat! I can't do this by myself and that shit head new lance hero hasn't even bothered to talk to anyone since he got here!" Cole wiped the spit off his face his demeanor unchanged by the pure disrespect. "The king...needed us to do this Rin."

==

As the bard watched as the animal girl approached him and called out by his boss Cassus merely smirked and stopped playing the tune he had been playing. The slow down effect had worked its charm, and now it was time for a different tune it looked like. "Lift like the peoples' spirits. Levitate." the bard said as suddenly chairs, food bowls and other objects sent hurdling at Rivia as he reached into his pocket he called out for the warrior's help who nodded and charged forward at Rivia from her eastern flank to try and cut her off. "I won't let you hurt Cassus! I don't want to hurt you either! Just let Lady Rin come what she came here to do!" the warrior tried shouting towards rivia though the bard didn't think it would work and the now guardless mage watching intently at what the shield was doing to try and help her own leader.

[Whoami]

Intervention

(Mood Music)

Auriel was about to turn both of the heroes down for dancing. It wasn't that she didn't want to. It was more to do with the fact that her wings made dancing in a crowded environment clunky. Though that was the easy excuse, deeper down in Auriel, she was simply embarrassed since she wasn't practiced at dancing. She was also worried that she'd make a fool of herself and a fool of her dance partner because of it. Thankfully, Auriel didn't need to answer as the door burst open, stealing everyone's attention away from the festivities. Including Auriel's.

She wasn't expecting to see the bow hero or her party show up. Auriel had recalled the last time she had met the bow hero. She was abrasive, rude, and very very loud. Auriel didn't like the girl, but her oath to servitude under the four heroes forced her to be indifferent. They were her destiny. She had to respect them even if she really couldn't. Auriel outstretched an arm when Cole moved in to attack, only to see that the bow hero's party was very quick to intercept all of the attacks that came at them with clever use of magic. Things began getting out of hand...

Auriel's golden eyes jumped between the two heroes, then to Rivia, then to the bow hero. This was going to devolve into a brawl where no one would come out it with anything good. She clenched her jaw and stepped out into the middle of the dance floor which was still relatively clear. She needed to stop this. Regardless of whichever hero would end up wounded in this altercation, allowing any single one of them to reach that point would mean that Auriel was failing at her job. And she refused to let that bastard Bander be made right. She didn't need to look at him to see the grin on his face. She could feel his eyes burning into her back. Auriel took a deep breath and outstretched her wings to full span. She channeled some mana as well, letting it flare out in golden light from her body. Auriel yelled out to interrupt them from their squabbling, "THAT'S ENOUGH!"

She gripped her spear tight and landed the butt end of it on the marble floor. Auriel stood tall and strong, removing any courtly elegance from her posture and replacing it with pride and strength. She looked between the three heroes, but her gaze was mostly on Rin. "Hero or not, this is not a way to conduct yourselves in a royal court!" Auriel stood her ground, "Who are you to criticize Fer and Cole, Rin Matsunaga? How many waves have you defended the world against? None. The waves are all that matters in the grand scheme of things. That is the ultimate purpose of the legendary heroes. As you have so clearly pointed out, the Dragon Hourglass is still measuring time. And there isn't much longer before the last grain falls and the skies turn red and fire rains on all the lands. Where then? Where is the sense in fighting now of all times? Why risk injury at such a crucial juncture?"

Auriel looked to Cole and Fer, "These sorts of galas are most important when held on the brink of cataclysm. It is an opportunity to relax and find peace before chaos. To forge fond memories to cherish and strength relationships worth fighting for. It is good for the soul, so no warrior ever becomes rotted from the inside out and cynical as you have so obviously become. You might have the prowess over the other heroes, but when our darkest hour comes, it will be the heroes who have learned to love this world that save it. Not the ones who see this simply as some chore they got pulled from their world to do."

Auriel's wings came back in, and the radiant golden light began to fade away. The winged warrior sighed, and turned toward the king. She did a curtsy in her dress and bowed her head, "Your majesty. I think it would be wise to allot a room for these three heroes so they can set aside their differences and find common ground."

[vancexentan]

"The same can be said of your patron saint, the shield hero. But the big difference is I just got back from putting down a demon summoned by a rogue mage outside the capital, and your master is over here partying with the god damn nobles. Why? For putting down some ex-gladiator? Shit that is fucking cruddy than breaking someone's god damn motorcycle." Rin says very much unimpressed by the attempt Auriel made to shift the room in her favor. As the King entered the room having previously been making small talk with some count, and duke of the realm his expression shifted to pale disdain for the whole situation at having to be dragged into it. "I see no injuries, just some mild bruising, a large light show, and I see a mage doing her duty to make sure that doesn't happen." comments the king as he looked over to acknowledge the bow hero's young mage who blushes. "What? Flare shot, and mirage shot are the attacks used by the lady bow right?" the king inquires to one of his aides who nods and confirms it she was wearing full armor in case something broke out which it seems it did. "The bow hero's brashness aside I find it troubling a non-hero would deem to be so openly critical of a hero sent here to save us. Especially one of the servants of the shield hero. Has the bow been wronged by the shield?" comments the king as he looks to the shield still pushed against Rin.

"The shield hero can stay here and play with his dick all day for all I care, he hasn't bothered me, my beef is with the only one here worth a shit. Cole's the sword right? He should be out there, just like me, working his ass off to be capable of carving a god damn mountain in half with that sword instead of being your fancy pants showoff to the crowd boss man." Rin growls out. "There you have it. This conflict was meant to spring the sword hero into action, and as one with no labeled servants as of yet you should be better Sword Hero. But the blame falls to me. I had hoped to raise spirits, and calm the minds of the aristocracy. But it seems in my folly I have angered one of my saviors. A most humblest of apologizes Mistress Bow. And to you Lord Sword I hope that I don't make another choice that would distract from one's duty in the future, I am sorry." The king says bowing his head. "I should be better...but everyone...has their limits...I wanted to show them that even I am human enough to...be with them that they can reach out to me." Cole states trying to provide his reason behind allowing this all to occur. "A fucking huge ass nerd once told me things called MMO's were like this sort of dumb shit. Something about heroes saving the world? Guess what genius we're not human we're practically god damn deities to these people we don't have the time to be human we're going to need to become Super heavyweight tier ass kickers if we're going home. And fuck me am I going home after all of this. I'm not being buried or turning into light like those other guys." Rin growls pulling back away from Cole his distaste ridden all over her face.

[Omni5876]

Perhaps it was the fact that he was still disoriented from the blinding light and the de buffing spell, or perhaps it had been the spell that had been place on Rin by her mage, whatever the case, Fer had felt as if head rushed head long into a solid mountain. He felt the impact on his shoulder and his forearm and almost bit his lip as the edge of the shield came up to meet his face. He growled at his own pathethic showing as much as the Bow Hero’s dirty mouth.

“What the fuck was her issue?” The Shield wondered as he was juggled about as if he was nothing more than an after thought. Or perhaps he was. His eyes narrowed. This crazy bitch somehow she was the voice of reason. Who in their right mind would believe that this was any sort of way to talk to anybody. If she had a grievance then she should present it properly. And where does she get off making it seem like Cole and his party had just lazed about doing nothing.

The young Shield Hero had never really struck a woman but the way that Matsunaga was behaving, she was no lady. Fer tightened his fist. He would gladly go to town on this crazy woman until his knuckles were bloody. He felt a slight tinge of anger against Cole too. Why was he cowering before this bellowing cow? “Cole, you do not have to explain yourself to this crazy person. Waltzing in here and throwing out accusations and behaving like some sort of toddler going off on a tantrum.”

He then turned to Rin. “If you are complaining that we are not worthy of receiving a dinner after the capture of Rayla Winters, you may be right. But don’t come bitching to us that nobody even cared to invite you. If you want to be a loner so bad then get the fuck out. We owe you no explanation.” He then spit at her feet, a bit of blood with it.

From the corner of his eyes he saw Rivia run into some trouble with flying dishes and furniture. Though the hero did not know much about their new companion, he knew that it would take more than silverware to stop the wolf girl. “Scratch their eyes out.” Thought the Shield hero. An anger rose inside his being. His heart began to burn and the usual green glow of his gem turned a slightly red color.

Suddenly Auriel’s commanding voice chastised them like fighting children and Fer felt a bit of shame rush to his face. The shame only grew when he realized that he found the angelic warrior very attractive as she displayed her own authority and tried to talk some sense into all of them. What she said was true. Only her could truly say that she had faced down monsters. The shield hero took a few calming breaths. Perhaps hearing Rin call him useless and pointing out that he may not be a real asset to the party added to his own inner turmoil and made him explode. He offered Auriel an apologetic smile.

Obviously accustomed to court and its politics, the angelic companion addressed the king, probably to mediate. Fer heard Rin’s annoying voice again spouting some nonsense about enjoying the feast. He felt his blood boil again. “Was this girl stupid or something?” Her logic was twisted and seemed quite childish. He would have swung at her again but withheld his hand trying to not cause anymore shame to Cole or Auriel.

Politics will be politics and he saw that the King waned to keep his nose clean. Somehow, Fer knew that if it had been him or Rivia who had started the altercation the mood would be much different. His tanned face turned a dark shade of red as this boy king set himself to chastising Auriel. The Shield Hero shot daggers at the fair faced ruler. The gleam of his gem reddened again and the air around him became static with suppressed anger. “Especially the servant of the Shield hero”. Those words reverberated through his soul. “This fucking bastard! Such a push over that he will grovel to a wordy foul mouthed bitch!” He wringed his hands but controlled himself.

Fer pulled back. A dark smile on his face as he turned to Rin. “I hope that your bow is as good as your mouth is at spouting nonsense. If it is, then there will be no need of any other Hero to stop the waves. If it isn’t, then I guess we will be rid of that very same mouth.” He turned to the King. Insolence written in the fake smile he gave the boy. Fer bowed low. “As you has state O Great King. My time would be better spent training and staying out of the way of true heroes. I retire to that purpose.”

Next he turned to Cole. “I will always be by your side Cole no matter what. My loyalty is not to this realm, or kingdom or other Heroes. You are better than this loud mouthed Bow Hero can ever hope to be. Don’t let her tell you otherwise.” Giving Rin a contemptuous smile he walked out stopping by Auriel. “My apologies Auriel. Perhaps you should give Cole your counsel. He will need you.” He continued on his way out and called out to Rivia “Leave them alone Rivia. I am sure they put up with much following that around.” The young Hero tossed his head towards the Bow.

Many eyes followed him with disgust. Some even murmured about his base behavior. Fer did not care. He knew these same people would come begging him for help when the Waves would turn up. His steps echoed in the hall as he passed trough the great doors on his way out.

[vancexentan]

"Alright enough of all this nonsense. Shay mind fixing the Sword Hero up?" says a voice from across the room as a young girl with green hair prances forward her loose fitting robes moving to and fro as she suddenly walks past Ferr without a word and walks up to Cole. "Ew...that's a nasty spell alright off with it." she says clapping her hands loudly as she summons a spell circle around the two. "In the grace of the Four Heroes I call upon my magic. Cleanse Curse!" she says loudly as the spell engulfs Cole as the wave of nausea coming off of his body cleanses he blinks in quick rapid succession. He looks down at the small green haired girl called Shay apparently. "Well I guess that saves Nina the trouble of doing it. Alright I'm going to the god damn tower if you dumbasses want to berate me there go ahead." Rin says as begins to walk away from Cole not bothering with apologizes as she turns her back to the shield. "And don't worry even at my worst I'm probably better at murdering monsters than you'll ever be blunt head." Rin retorts to Fer as she walks towards the door escorted by the guards.

Cole felt conflicted he had chosen not to retaliate more than he had at Rin. He already caused one hole, and he figured bad mouthing her would cause even more tension. She took him more seriously than Fer it seemed and so did the king if his comments to Fer would be believed. But he knew that the shield would solve that problem over time. "Who do I owe the pleasure of the healing?" Cole asked quick to thank his helpers. He can talk to fer in a bit once he's done consolidating with the other two. "I'm just your everyday average friend of House Melromarc! Shay Din is at your service my lord the sword!" Shay said with a big smile on her young face as a red haired girl approached. And just when he had enough with Rayla...The girl was garbed in a number of fancy clothes but her muscles more than gave off that this was not your average lady of the court. "Alright so since Vinny can't officially be seen doing much I guess I will have to after all." the girl said with a big excited grin on her face. As one of the guards approached she took his sword right from his belt and told him to relax. "I am Edusa D. Melromarc. Seventh in line to the throne, and classed fighter. IF you don't mind I'll have your back from now on. The Sword ain't alone no more." Edusa said as she suddenly knelt to the floor with the sword pommel offered to Cole.

Cole was confused very quickly by how a royal family member would offer them his services. Vincent looked openly very annoyed as he glared down at the kneeling girl in front of him. Cole couldn't read him but it wasn't disapproval more so than anxiety. Cole didn't have a choice in the matter then. He grabbed the girl's sword and took it. "Then you are now a member of the Party of the Sword." Cole said to her as he returned the blade to her and then she the guard. Edusa stood up her grin still very confident. "Heh told Ma that I would find a way to get in." comments Edusa as Shay laughs at the statement. "Well its not Missus's fault you're so violent." Shay tells her friend teasing as Edusa shrugs it off. "Violence is fun, its how you tell creeps to bug off and the world's at stake anyways. Besides the shield hero's party can't just be the only friends of the sword hero." Edusa comments more so to Cole than Shay as if explaining the situation.

"There this party is here by canceled please return to your estates and please sleep calm knowing that the Sword Hero's first official follower is of my own family's cadet branch." comments Vincent trying to quickly move on from the whole affair the guards do as he bids and start to escort the party out. "Feel bad for King V. Never asked for that you know my lords. Real handful it is. Especially with the assassination and all. He's doing good so far though. And sorry my lord I'll help when I can but i'm no traveler." Shay says as Cole notices she was not added to the party like Edusa. "My first follower..i'm happy to meet you Edusa." Cole states with a more at ease expression. "I was starting to worry no one liked me."
===
Faces of Shay, and Edusa D. Melromarc
https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/96458754

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

Well, it seemed like the bard quite rightly didn't seem too keen on letting Rivia reach him. Not with that murderous intent around her at the very least. Quite understandable really, what else would you do when you saw a wolf person coming to rip your throat out? However, as he launched the projectiles at Rivia, intercepting her own rather than be dissuaded by the barriage coming her way, instead as a chair came at her while atop a table, she shifted her weight to turn and jump towards and atop of it. You see, she had this great plan of launching herself off of it and over to the bard with a feat of superhuman strength and ability. However, she failed to take into account the bard could probably just drop the chair as she tried it. You know, just in case she could actually do it. So why wouldn't he?

Crashing to the ground with the chair, she grabbed it to deflect the other projectiles, growling in annoyance. Throwing the chair at the projectiles as the partygoers scattered from around her, she rolled behind a table to assess her next move before she heard and saw a hulking figure over her. One of stronger looking guys who had been with the bard and Rin had come over to intercept her it seemed. You see, she much preferred this to fighting some flying chair or bowl. Speaking of which, she had to roll out of the way before a bowl of hot soup crashed down where she was.

Eyes darting around, she got into a low stance, ready to fight the man and get to the bard to stop his annoying tricks when another loud voice filled the room. It was a voice familiar to Rivia, causing her ears to twitch for a moment before she stole a glance back. It was Auriel. Wait, wait, wait. That person attacking was a fellow hero?! Rivia was that shocked that she forgot about the projectiles until she realised a bunch of cutlery was coming at her, barely rising her dagger in time to deflect some forks and knives from hitting her. Though it did cut her cheek slightly. It was only once she heard the king telling everyone to stop that the projectiles did, though Rivia's eyes continued to dart from the bard, to the fighter and a glance behind her at Vincent.

Rivia was so confused. Why was Cole and Ferr in trouble? This mad woman was the one who attacked them! Rather reluctantly, Rivia lowered her weapons which no doubt caused a nice sigh of relief from the fighter in front of her. He didn't seem keen on fighting her, so suppose he lucked out here.

Now Rivia couldn't follow this conversation at all. It seemed like everyone was getting mad with everyone? Cole seemed upset, the King seemed upset, Auriel seemed upset. What on earth was this complex situation? For someone as 'simple' as Rivia, she mightn't ever understand politics and human dynamics. At least she was certainly hopeless with it right now anyway. All she knew was that Ferr was walking off. Unsure, she followed after Ferr as it seemed that Auriel and Cole were caught up with the king. Besides, maybe Ferr could explain what was going on to her?

"Ferr...what happened? Rivia is confused. Why is everyone angry with everyone? Why aren't we fighting anymore?" Catching up to Ferr, she grabbed at his sleeve the moment she could to try and get him to stop.

[Omni5876]

On his way out, Fer’s recognizance eyes did not fail to notice the innocent looking young girl in red hair that moved past him towards his Sword counter part. Even that childish visage was not enough to fully hide the power that was hidden under that childish face. It did not escape his notice that Rin seemed to be at the very least acquainted with them as she did not oppose their cleaning of Cole. Perhaps it was more than knowing each other.

Fer only offers the Bow Hero a grunt in derision at her attempt to bait him. It was in his benefit, in the whole world’s benefit that Matsunaga be able to live up to that claim. After all, none of those summoned would be able to go back to their old lives unless the waves were stopped. Regardless of what he wanted, the young shield hero could not bring himself to wish her ill. A foul taste began to register in his mouth as he walked but he decided spitting in the floor again was much too crude.

Rin was not entirely wrong. She was meant to be a better hunter than he. Being one who had used a bow and arrow in his previous life, Fer knew that if somebody with enough aptitude was able to wield such a simple looking weapon, it would be quite deadly. Add magic in to the mix and the long range lethality of the Bow could be compounded.

Magic. There in lay the possibility of making him if not more offensive at least a better defensive or support asset. The way that the song had made him sluggish and disoriented made him wonder if such spells could be acquired by anyone. There must be a reason why each of the candidates were chosen to wield their specific legendary weapons. Fer did not know why he had been selected to wear the Shield. Perhaps it was his natural predisposition to protect. Or perhaps it was his desire to preserve life.

Whatever the case, he was stuck with the Shield so he should do the best he could. The green light in his bracer gem gleamed as if in objection. “I did not mean that you are a burden or less than those other weapons. But you have to admit, you have been keeping many secrets from me. I need to learn how to use you best.” He sighed deeply. It was a good thing that Rivia and Auriel were melee type fighters.

Speaking of fighters , that Edusa girl had introduced herself as one to Cole. Both seemed to share the same last name as the boy king. Fer’s eyes narrowed. He was sure that opportune group assignment was not all chance. From what he had heard, Melromarc was a matriarchy first and foremost. Were the sisters somehow trying to make a move for the throne or in some way undermine their male relative? Fer sighed again. Politics were a pain in the ass. It was probably better if he just concentrated on getting stronger to defeat the waves and go home. The politics of his homeland were a bit less complicated.

However, it worried him that Cole was so easily entangled by their smiles. Was it because they were cute little girls? Was his blonde companion thinking with his groin rather than with the one on his shoulders? No, the Sword hero could not be that simple and shallow could he? Fer shrugged to himself as his armored boots kept him moving forward. That was all he could do. Move forward and do his best. Cole would do what he would but the Shield hero had promised he would follow and protect him. That would be enough for now.

By this time, the soft steps of the wolf girl caught up to him in one of the long corridors of the castle that led out. Her confused voice snapped him out of his musings. His eyes went wide in surprise as it took him a second to recognize who was talking to him when he turned after his sleeve was pulled. “Oh….Rivia..” He said surprised. Shit, he had forgotten about her and Auriel in his irritation. He looked back towards the great hall. Should he go back and talk to Auriel? No, it was probably best somebody keep and eye on Cole and the Malromarc girls. Hearing the wolf girl’s question his face contorted.

His right hand scratched the side of his head. “Ah, how to explain.” The young shield wondered. It was plainly obvious that the wolf girl may not grasp the finer points of politics. He was having trouble following it all himself. He motioned Rivia to walk with him with his head. “We the Heroes are supposed to protect the world from the waves I am sure you know. The problem is that we are not of this world and so start off really weak. We just managed to barely bring down a bandit queen named Rayla Winters. That is why the king had thrown that celebration.”

Fer stared ahead as if re telling the story to him more than answering Rivia’s question. He continued in an absent voice. “Apparently, the Bow hero thought we should be practicing and getting stronger rather than going to parties. I cant say she is wrong. I have been having that same thought. The problem is I don’t know much about how to make my Shield stronger and we don’t have that much time left. So I decided to try and study some magic and learn more about how my Shield works.”

He turned his brown eyes to her again. It was strange that such a cute looking wolf girl even existed but that was also a very capable fighter. He offered her a kind smile with some apologetic hints written in there. “You know, I did promise you a spar and after having endured my dancing I think you more than earned it. Would you like to help me get stronger?” The Shield sounded sincere. He looked in the direction of a passing guard. “But not here, I don’t like the idea of having the Bow hero or any of her underlings barging in.” He also did not like the idea of the king or those two girls keeping tabs on them. “I know of a place you can come if you want.” He offered not wanting to assume that Rivia would follow him blindly.

If she accepted, the place he would take her was the very same place that he and Cole had first learned to battle the orange balloon monsters. It was out of the way but not secluded enough that any whisperings of the Shield conducting any clandestine operations could be started. As he approached the exit gates he could not help but look back towards the castle. Its fancy façade hid many secrets and probably dark ones at that. He hoped that Cole would be ok. Not safety wise but more mentally. The blonde guy was probably home sick and the honey like smiles of those two sisters were sure to draw him in. Another sigh escaped the Shield’s lips as his booted feet moved him forward.

[vancexentan]

"Shieldy seems like one moopy guy. Should I go punch him in his shield until he cheers up? Or is he the type to need to go brood?" grumbles Edusa as she folds her arms looking at Cole. Cole's face was one of confusion had they not just gained a new ally despite all of this mess? As he watched Fer leave he wondered if his own silence had caused this he had not been the best leader but he had been doing his best to be a good neutral party in all things so far. Perhaps he should be more confident, or at least fake it. Because he didn't feel confident he was a nerd less than a week ago. People walked by him and expected him to be at a grocery counter, or fishing up in Maine. Here? He didn't quite know what he was besides an apparent legendary hero. "Its up to him to figure out what he wants. I'm not sure what's going on anymore. But if Fer needs time then so be it. I'll let him have his time." Cole stated as he turned to Rivia, and bow his head. "I'm sorry that you've been thrown into this mess. It must be so confusing but...in reality I'm not much different Rivia. I'm not going to tell you to go after Fer, or stay here with me. Because that's something up to you to decide. Or you could go to a tavern, or meet the bow hero, or a number of things. I just want you to choose what you're most comfortable doing." comments Cole as Edusa groans audibly. She walks over to Rivia and smiles at her, "Rivia was it? Name's Edusa Melromarc nice to meet you, your cheek's cut want Shay's help?" comments Edusa as she looks over to the small green haired girl who had helped Cole who keeps her distance as to not impose.

"Wait shieldy? You really just called the legendary shield hero, Shieldy?" comments Cole with a smirk on his mouth as the royal shrugs, "Man I was never the religious type. And living people ain't gods to me they're just people. The old shield hero? Maybe? Who knows. If shieldy wants me respect he'll get it when he wants it." Edusa says back at Cole waving a hand as to brush away the comment. "Hmmm now that I take a look at your fur...you're really cute you know." Edusa says meaning it more as a compliment then a flirt.

[Lunarlord34]

Rivia Silvermane

Brushing off the Princess's concerns, seeming to have no clue who she was and she was far too occupied with going after Ferr, it didn't take long for the wolf demi human to catch up to him in the halls of the castle. Not that the bleeding from her cut had stopped, but it didn't seem to be a concern for Rivia. Was she even aware of it? Well, that remained to be seen.

When Ferr turned around, he would find Rivia looking at him with that same tilted head and possibly even more confused face that she had shown during their earlier conversation. Seeing as he was continuing walking, Rivia moved to walk beside him and listened as their steps seemed to echo throughout the empty hallway. In a way, this was partly distracting for Rivia. She didn't like how she could hear their own footsteps, but listening to Ferr was a main priority right now.

"But why are the heroes fighting?" She nodded her head as he spoke, seeming to follow along for the most part though she still seemed confused by the bow hero's antics it seemed. "Rivia understands training and growing stronger. But Rivia also knows a King is the alpha, the chief. So if the King says to do something, don't the heroes have to listen?" She seemed almost in pain as she tried thinking over this in her head. Yeah, nope she couldn't understand this bow 'hero' at all. She really didn't like her, or that fellow with made her ears hurt with that music and magic.

Though at the mention of sparring, her mood immediately lifted. If the way she perked up her head wasn't enough of a clue, then the way her tail began wagging like a dog about to go on a walk did. He had barely even finished answering the question and she was already immediately nodding her head frantically in agreement.

"Mhmm! Rivia would love to spar!" She didn't even seem to mind if the bow hero or her lackeys decided to join. Not that the thought came to her mind, but if they did then that was even better. More foes, the better. And she could pay back that annoying bard as well, it would all be wins in her book. So she happily followed him to wherever he wanted to lead her. That might be a slight concern seeing how easily it was to lead her along, but maybe it was just the faith and trust she placed in a hero.