[IC] Mirror, Fox, Key

[Mokley]

Thursday dawned gray, damp and peaceful on the bolted city gates. On this kind of morning, the citizens of Enn would traditionally sit by the hearth with a cup of tea to discuss the weather -- but today they sat at their windows, peeking through the curtains at the clean cobbled streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of who would respond to the Traveller's call.

Beside the silent gate sat a weathered old wheelbarrow filled with iron birdcages of varying size and quality. It had not been there the evening before.

The hour specified on the flyer came and went. Another hour passed. The sun rose properly over the wall and dried the morning dew, and still nobody came to greet the small hopeful crowd that had gathered at the gate.

Just when it seemed clear that the flyer had been nothing more than a cruel trick, the Traveller approached sleepily from a night at the city's cheapest hotel. His appearance lived up to the rumors spread about him: the metallic grinning mask, the perpetual hood, the exotic clothes, the sword and pistol at his belt. He walked with his masked face tipped toward the clouds, a rucksack slung over one shoulder.

The Traveller stopped on the street. He stared at the crowd for a confused moment.

"Hi." He raised a gloved hand in greeting. His voice had a youthful pitch, and he spoke as if he were grinning through his words -- but his expression was hidden completely by the mask. "Call me Spook. You guys ready to go?" He stepped forward again, cutting his slow way through the crowd until he reached the front. He surveyed the group again, completely oblivious to anything they might have to say about the excessive wait they'd endured.

"I'm gonna ask you guys to split up," he said finally, making a noncommittal gesture. "You five there -- yeah -- you'll be . . . Broccoli." He pointed, and made another vague gesture that separated Team Broccoli from the rest of the group. "You, you, you, you and . . . you. You'll be Carrot. You people over here," he drew a circle in the air to encompass a group to his left, "you're Eggplant. The rest of you are . . . Rutabaga. Got it? Great. Each of you pick a team leader and grab some cages. We're heading out."

Spook turned and motioned over his head at a guard standing atop the wall. The heavy wooden gates began to creak and groan and rumble with rusty disuse. They had only opened halfway when the Traveller walked through them with a whistle, leading the way down a weedy road that curved between rocks and bushes and sunny groves of trees.

OOC info!

Don't forget to check out the latest announcement to find your team and posting guidelines. Most important of all, have fun and go nuts! :D

[Damiann47]

The wait didn't really bother Sharie, although when the second hour passed even she had to admit it was getting ridiculous. Quite a few people showed up, lot more than she expected actually, but guess because Travelers come around so rarely there's bound to be a lot of interest. Around when Sharie started having doubts, and was truly considering just forgetting about all this traveling business, it was then the Traveler himself finally appeared. He certainly gave off a mysterious air, not to mention that grinning mask of his was a little unsettling, and added even more to the man's mystery. Now what surprised her the most was how youthful he sounded, to Sharie the image of a Traveler was a old grizzled man with plenty gruff in his voice, seems she made the wrong assumptions after all.

His way of organizing them was... uh... odd. Sure it made sense to divide them into smaller teams, but the names are what made it weird, plus he pretty much clumped them together at random, he really was strangely nonchalant with his leadership position so far. After their instructions were given, Sharie turned to her band new teammates and reached up to rub her goggles, she looked unsure how to proceed. She then shrugged, the action caused her musket, which was handing by a strap over her shoulder, to clank against her belt. She decided to introduce herself first, "Well... my name's Sharie, guess we all get to be friends now, huh?"

---

TEAM BROCCOLI

@DFTBA @Crimson Raven @Jay Kalton @Magnato

[Crimson Raven]

Kelsier Solidor of TEAM BROCCOLI

_...ewww

Thats not what I was expecting. So thought Kelsier as he got up from where he was sitting on his pack he had brought, away from the rest of the group. He sholdered his pack, slung his greatsword over his back, grabbed a birdcage and followed the masked Traveler. Not commenting on the odd greeting and teams. His mind wandered back to the events of this morning. He had gotten up before dawn to turn in his offical resignation to the mayor and collect his final pay. Predicable, it caused quite a stir among the force. Their most skilled, promising person was, out of the blue resining from the force? Most of the veterans he has personaly trained took it philosophically, wishing him well on what ever he was doing, and thanking him for his service. The younger recruits had more mixed reactions, some were glad to be rid of a hard taskmaster (which he was) others were dismayed at the thought and begged him not to. He did not change his mind and he left after saying farewell.

His next stop was the little house, really a shack, that he and his mother lived in. He had told her everything and she understood, saying that she new that one day, he would follow in the footsteps of his father one day. He had packed the night before, so he said goodbye and left with a minimum of drama. He had arrived, still early, before the sun had risen fully. He has sat down and waited with philosophical patience. Some time later, he realized had dozed off and woke well into the morning, with the Traveler nowhere to be found.

But he is here now, and thats what matters. Kelsier thought, bringing his mind back to the present. He could feel his excitement rising as he was soon to be free of the oppressive walls and free to wander the face of the earth, free to go where the wind blows. He studied his companions, a surprising number of one-and-twenty, incuding him. They seemed to come from all walks of life and had little in common at first glace. He spotted a woman with a long sword and he walked quicked his pace to walk up to her. "Its unusual to see a woman with a sword." He stated plainly. "But don't misunderstand me, I think it is a good thing for anyone to be proficient with some kind of weapon. My name is Kelsier, what is yours?"

@Vee

[needlingAsklepios]

TEAM CARROT

Novas yawned loudly, shaking his head as he waited for the Traveler who was supposed to meet them there. He wondered what the man would be like. Or woman, he supposed. It was a little rarer, but on occasion Traveler's were female. Looking over the group, he figured that perhaps that was a little more common than he thought. Interesting. There were a few people he wanted to know, and he thought he saw his handy work out there as well. A few people even had guns. He wondered if they might let him mess with them at some point... If these people were going to be his travel companions, he certainly wanted them outfitted properly.

However, time would pass, and Novas would sit there quietly. No telling what might happen with the traveler. Perhaps this was some elaborate prank, or maybe they would all be attacked. Not that that was likely. The most likely thing however, that he figured, was that the traveler would only pick 2 or 3 of them to accompany him. That would be... irritating, seeing as there were what... 20 some people around? Not being chosen to go would suck.

Then the traveler arrived, and Novas raised an eyebrow, smiling. The man was odd, and the mask on his face made it difficult to read him. Perhaps that was the point? Then he explained the teams, ignoring the moaning and groaning about the wait. Carrot... seriously? WAs this guy real. "Are you real?" Novas heard himself mutter under his breath. Still, they were all leaving, which meant no turning back.

He turned to his 'team' and smiled, glancing around. "Hello. I'm Novas. Its nice to meet you." He gave a short bow, and smiled at the small girl who was a part of their team. She was adorable, but why was she out here? It was going to be a hell of a dangerous trip, NOvas was sure. Did this girl not have parents who were worried about her? "Are you really coming, little one?" He asked, worry tinging his voice.

[hoppiholla391]

(@Irisity)
One person, at least, had no issue with waiting beside the gates for hours. Lily was quite used to waiting around for something (or someone, as it were) to happen. Anyways, she was in no rush—she had all her things lumped into a sack and stashed about her person, she was warm enough in her father's ill-fitting sheepskin jacket, and there were interesting people to look at. A guard captain, her favorite messenger girl—and Amelia. Lily frowned slightly, but resolved to keep an eye on her. The wilderness outside the city was no place for a little girl, or so everyone said; on the other hand, Lily was not 'everyone.'

Speaking of interesting people—their host, when he finally arrived, certainly fit that description. Lily, who had been leaning against the wall with her head back to try and catch a bit of sun, opened one eye to squint at him when he started to speak. Odd's bobs, but he sounded younger than her. At least he somewhat looked the part, with that strange mask and the sword at his hip. Lily had weapons of her own, but they were neither out in the open nor nearly as impressive as the blades and guns everyone in the group seemed to be toting.

When he split them up, she raised an eyebrow. "Carrot," she repeated, eyes narrowed but grinning playfully as she fluffed her hair out over her shoulders. "Is that an editorial comment, hm?" She glanced at her partymates, though, relieved that the urchin girl wasn't going to be sent into a group with complete strangers; to the three men, she gave a wink and a smile. No need to be unfriendly.

No one moved, for a moment; looks were exchanged, a few words of greeting spoken, the burly one worried after Amelia. When no one immediately stepped forward as the leader of their little group, Lily shrugged, and stepped forward to the cart. She took one of the larger birdcages under her arm, hooking a smaller one on her finger as she settled her sack across her back; the smallest cage, though, she grabbed as soon as she could, and held it out to Amelia with a smile.

"Here, bean," she said quietly. "If you are coming with us—look after this for me?" She hefted the large cage under her arm again with years of work to thank for what strength she had, and set off after the Spook, with one last long look back at the towering walls of Enn.

[Irisity]

TEAM CARROT

@hoppiholla391 @needlingAsklepios

Amelia woke from her normal spot on the bench, the morning cold brushing against her skin, causing goose bumps to rise on her pale arms. She shivered and rubbed her arms as she slowly woke, sleep still in her eyes. She yawned and sat up, surveying the other street rats. The rest were still asleep on their own benches or sections of the park. Amelia gathered what little she had and threw them in a sack on her back. "Bye guys!" She yelled at the sleeping homeless kids as she exited the park. Few stirred.

Amelia walked down the cobble streets, her heart pounding. She wouldn't have to stare at that boring old sunset anymore. She woukd hopefully be gazing at a new horizon by this time tomorrow.

Spooks, the man who set out the ad stood there, with his metal smile and large glass eyes. More and more people started to gather around the mysteries Traveller. Amelia wandered what sunsets they wished to see.

Spooks divided them into groups. He placed her in carrot, causing her to wrinkle her nose in disgust. She never likes carrots. She trudged over the group and--

"Miss Lily!" Amelia yelled in delight at the sight of the woman. "Why have you come here Miss Lily? Won't you miss your shop?"

Before Lily could respond, a tall man asked if she was actually coming. "Why, of course I am!" She out her hands on her hips in defiance. Miss Lily handed her a small bird cage and asked her to keep it. She beamed at her new possession. "Oh, of course I will Miss Lily!"

[DFTBA]

TEAM BROCCOLI

Andica slunk quietly through the dark streets towards the gate, one hand on Kavinika's leash and the other clutching her large cloth sack of supplies. It was awkward to carry and bulged in weird places. She hadn't had time to plan her escape or what to take with her, and it had all been gathered in furtive silence as her family slept around her. It had felt like a betrayal, but her decision had been made. There was no turning back now.

At least, so she had thought until the sun rose ever higher and still Spook failed to appear. The poster she had seen had said "be ready to leave immediately", she was sure. The line played over and over in her mind as she fretted in the shortening shadows of the gatehouse. This traveller had seemed to provide the perfect opportunity to be gone before she was missed, but now as the hours ticked by, it became ever more likely that someone from her family, or worse, her fiance, would think to find her here and come searching.

Andica didn't think she could bear that. This had seemed so much easier in the dark house, anger and frustration still fresh in her head. If her father appeared here, arms outstretched and calling her name, she might not be able to stay away. It was cruel to them to run away like this, she knew, and not at all what they deserved for raising her with kindness. It was Santini Quade she was fleeing, not them, but her family would surely take it the hardest.

She thought she caught site of Dane once, out in the street, but her little brother's head of shaggy blond hair didn't come any closer to her hiding spot, and disappeared off up the street. He had hardly gone, however, before Spook appeared at last.

After hearing his instructions, she bounced quickly towards the front of the group, hard on Spook's heels as they got around the gate and out of sight of the street behind. With that settled, she could look around her her teammates.There was one, a guy with a big sword and a guard's uniform, who immediately walked off to speak to a member of a different team. Not the sharpest tool in the shed, that one, or so she surmised. That left herself, a woman with a white dress and red hair, cousin Samieh (and she thought she had been dodging her relatives) and Sharie, the girl in gloves and goggles who had just introduced herself in a slight aristocratic accent..

"As you say" Andica replied. "My name is Andica". She dropped a rough curtsey before reconsidering the action. They were going out of Enn now, where you didn't have to bow before nobles. They were here as teammates, travelling companions, friends and... equals?
"Good to meet you, my friend" she amended herself, this time extending a hand to shake.

@Crimson Raven @Damiann47 @Jay Kalton @Magnato

[needlingAsklepios]

TEAM CARROT

@Irisity @hoppiholla391

Novas blinked. The two seemed to know each other. Interesting. A ginger and a child. This was going to be a fun first day. His smile was genuine as he ran a hand over his beard, heading towards the bird cages. He hoisted one as well, grabbing one that was large, but not overly encumbering. He might be over six feet tall, but who knew when they would reach their destination, and carrying such a massive thing for several miles would be irritating to sat the least.

So she was coming. He wondered if the child would last. The red head... he wasn't overly worried about. she seemed like she was able to care for herself. The others in their team seemed self reliant as well, though they hadn't said to much, so he wasn't sure. Sometimes those that seemed the strongest succumbed the quickest. "Well, so long as you are coming, I am glad to meet you." He said, smiling at the little girl. The defiance she showed was cute, and he enjoyed the look of her.

He turned to the ginger, the one Amelia called Lily. "Hello Lily. Its a pleasure." He said, using the same name Amelia had. He held out a hand for her to shake. Novas wasn't familiar with prostitutes or flowers really, and he didn't recognize Lily for her profession at all. He however, was wearing the clothes of his trade, and had the trademark coal stained hands, hair, and face. Every wrinkle of his skin was tarnished black, and no amount of soap would ever remove the year old stains. Along with that, he had a myriad of burn scars over his forearms, and two on his left cheek. He... well, he wasn't a very beautiful man, to say the least.

"I suppose I should ask. Do we have anyone who truly wants to be a leader?" He said, turning to the entire team carrot to ask that question. "I also feel we should all introduce ourselves, to say the least. It would be smart to at least know each other's names as we walk."

((Figured I'd post once more before I disappear for the next 8 hours))

[Bubsy 2]

TEAM EGGPLANT

Several Hours Ago
Preparations had been put in place. Someone else would run the store. It felt wrong, but what could Emma do? She didn't want to leave Forivel's legacy into uncertain hands, but she at least vetted the replacement. She closed the shop for the last time, at least as it would be in her tenure. It was bitter, but she had no time to waste crying over it. She had to prepare for their journey, and there were still goodbyes to be said. She headed to her parents home. She spent the majority of her time living here, and the rest at the cramped bedroom at the back of the shop. She entered the front door, coming into a rather uneventful domestic scene. Her family had been assembled, which was lucky, because Emma had not told them she was leaving. No one took special notice of her entrance, because it was typical for her to come home at this time. No one took notice of the pack on her back either. It had been filled with all she would need, important medicinal plants and remedies, clothing, a journal and writing utensils, food. She intended to write a book of the plants beyond the wall and their uses. It was a serviceable reason, no one would ask why she was leavening, no one would know she was running from guilt. She cleared her throat, and said rather casually, "I'm leaving with the Traveler today."

What happened after that didn't matter. They were surprised, then they said tearful goodbyes, and Emma left. She only had one more person to say goodbye to.

She found herself on a windy path, taking measured steps. She was in the Botanical Gardens. She was saying goodbye to her favorite place- and her mentor. Forivel always wanted to be buried among the plants. It was a secluded grove, surrounded by trees planted in his honor. He was well liked by the other botanists. She kneeled in front of the headstone, placing her hand upon it. She didn't need to say anything, but the tears she had been holding back finally came.

When it came to be time she found herself on the path to the gate. She knew it would be a long time before she saw Enn again. As she came upon the gate she saw several faces she recognized- Meryn, Lux, Theodore, Roy, and...? There was a blond haired girl that looked markedly familiar, but Emma couldn't place her. ...Unless? No way. She knew who it was.

Sanaa Dufor.

She remembered her from when she had delivered the medicine to the Dufor Estate. Emma was frozen, still out of sight, breathing wildly.

No way. No way. This isn't happening. This can't be. Why? Why would she go with the Traveler? This was supposed to be a fresh start. This isn't fair.

The fact that Lux was also here made it all the worse. She remembered talking with her about the Marquis' death last time she was in her shop. It was natural that she would be questioned, but she knew Lux didn't really suspect her. At least she thought she knew. They were friends, after all.

Emma had to get it together. She tried to calm herself, but she still felt like a mess. She couldn't lose this chance- not even if Sanaa was here. She wouldn't get another chance to leave the city. She approached the group, deciding to engage with Lux. She approached the girl, waving at her, "H-h-hey Lux! If it isn't my favorite detective! Are you going along with the Traveler?"

She tried to sound calm. She really did. But, if anything, she drew more attention to herself. She tripped over her words, something very atypical of her, and she obviously sounded nervous.

Thank god the Traveler came.

He divided them into groups.

Sanna, Lux, Roy, someone she did not know.

How can I be this unlucky.

She tried to address her group, who had possessed the auspicious name of Eggplant. "Hey everyone." She said, putting on her best smile. She was a little calmer by now. "I already know most of you, but I'm Emma." She was doing her best to avoid the gaze of Sanaa Dufor.

@Skittles @t2wave @Darinthus @Vee

[Takashi]

TEAM RUTABAGA

Telio's family took the news of his departure as one would expect. Tears, a last supper together, one last word of advice from his father, and one last hug from his mother. However, neither of them could truly object to his decision. He was an adult now, and he had already proven himself successful both in his craft and financially. He has completed all outstanding work, closed his account books, and there were no obligations tying him to the city any longer. Well... there was one person who objected.

"Telio Lenocci, stop right there. I know what you are up to, and I think I deserve an explanation!"

How did he even find out? Telio thought as Baron Dupoir ambushed him on his way to the city gates. "Sir, with all do respect, I am a free man and this is simply what I wish to do with my life. I assure you that there are no personal grievances between us that have influenced my decision... No, the Baroness is a lovely woman and I am proud of the many portraits that I made of her... This has nothing to do with payment. I have already accumulated a small savings under your employ that I'm sure will help me on my journey... No sir, there is nothing you can do to change my mind. If you'll be needing a replacement artist, I can recommend my friend Turel Argot, but that is all I can do for you... Yes sir, I wish the best for you and your family."

After that conversation, Telio didn't care that the weather was cloudy and damp. He reveled in what occluded rays of sunshine he could, for he would never have to draw Baroness Dupoir again! Not holding a teacup, not looking to the left, not in a red dress, not in a blue dress, And certainly not with that ridiculous fake smile she always made for his portraits. Oh, and he would get to explore the world, see things that people only dreamed of, etc. etc... and those things most definitely would not include Baroness Dupoir!

Telio approached the gate in high spirits, whistling a happy tune to himself. He wasn't sure what he was going to need for this journey, but he brought along with him some common senses essentials. A filled up waterskin, some dried meats and rations, some bandages, and of course a whole bunch of art supplies. Even though a large crowd had gathered, the Traveler hadn't shown up yet, so he took out his sketchpad and began drawing the last landscape he would ever make of Enn. He had no hatred and quite a bit of fondness for his home, and this showed in his final drawing. He remembered that when he was younger that building had a weather vane, so he drew one in. There used to be a small garden over there before the flood, as well. By the time Spook showed up, the drawing was finished, and as far as Telio was concerned, his final work in Enn held more truth than anyone's eyes could reveal at this time.

Spook was bizarre. Telio immediately decided that he liked him. He and three others were ordained "Team Rutabaga," an interesting choice, but unique to say the least. Telio then realized that he had never drawn a rutabaga and wondered what an insignia would look like... but that would have to wait; manners came first. "Hello everyone," he said in a cheerful tone as he fell in with his group. "My name is Telio Lenocci, son of--" He cut himself off when he realized that there would no longer be a need for formal introductions. "Actually, just Telio. It's a pleasure to meet you all and--"

Once again, he cut himself off when he realized that he recognized one of his teammates. "Miss Anzivino! It's been ages. I suppose you couldn't stand being cooped up in the aristocracy?" They had both grown a lot since they last met, but neither had changed so much that they would be unrecognizable. Telio had gotten along well with her when they were younger, and he was optimistic for more of the same. He made no mention of a team leader because he had a feeling that a certain swordsman would claim that title very quickly, which was fine by him. Telio had no experience bossing people around, nor did he have any desire to do so.

@Turboshitter @c3p-0h @Apokalipse

[Bornlucky]

TEAM CARROT

---

Theodore Taylor is many things. He was simple man. A Tailor. A Father. And recently a Widow. And he would soon to be a Traveller, in search of his children to tell them of their mother's fate. But one thing he isn't, he is never late. As he arrived at dawn with several bags of equipment and food to make his travels a comfortable one. Although now that he looks over his fellow soon to be travellers which made him think he might be ill prepared, as some of them are carrying weapons either clearly on their person or within their clothes which has slight outline of hidden weapons under their coats and pants. It should be for the best, Theodore's was not meant to be a fighter, his daughter was, not him his, hands are calloused from tailoring and knitting, not from practicing combat and he would never forgive himself if he took somebody's life.

Alas when he was thinking to himself, a strange masked person appered and spoke with the voice of a young adult, even without his face in view, Theodore could still hear the grin he was speaking though Theodore wondered why the person wore a mask and he interested im his odd clothes it was not one of Enn styles. But The strange Traveller, supposedly called Spook, separated the large group into four smaller groups named Carrot, it was bitterly ironic, carrots were his daughter's favorite food and she was a terribly picky eater so it was more prevalent then it should've been.

Theodore nodded at the instruction from the strange mask person and he grouped up with his group, a woman, a young girl and two men including himself it was five people in the group. He trusted them to support each other, he had to, and he had to help in his own small way.

The blacksmith spoke up about introducing themselves. When the others didn't reply right away, he decided to introduce himself first.

"Greetings, my name's Theodore Taylor, I was a tailor and now I'm a Traveller like all of you." Theodore introduces himself to the group, he spoke in his usual soft voice and gentle smile.

"I'll forfeit my choice of being the leader, I will help in any manner that's needed, but I'm no leader."

[Magnato]

TEAM BROCCOLI

The day had started normally, her parents didn't ask any question about where she was going or why she was going, they never did, but they would always leave fresh bread for her to pick. For a second she thought about telling her parents that this time she wasn't going to be out for a couple of days, but as she thought harder about it she felt her bread becoming increasingly saltier and a bit wetter. "No way in hell I would let them see this, they would try to convince me to stay and become a baker" she thought.

Not that she had a distaste for bakers, maybe in another life, in a fairer place without nobles to steal the precious money they made in the form of harsh taxes. In Enn all she could do was to constantly bash against the law and one day or another the law would caught up and she knew pretty well the officers wouldn't be limited to just punishing her.

Before going into the meeting she made a quick stop in one of her gang's hideout to get some gear: a bow, a couple of traps, a knife and a piece of fur should she move into a cold place. With that she felt ready to finally check out what was so hot about the out-wall world and to leave this corrupt city behind.

For her surprise she soon saw a familiar face, her cousin Andica, but her attention would be quickly focused on the Traveller himself, what an odd fellow, odd mask, odd behavior and an apparent disinterest from her group. To top all that he barely looked like he cared about guiding them. Nevertheless, it was her only chance to leave and she had to take it.

Soon she noticed everyone in the group were introducing themselves, and she tried her best to look civil but she couldn't help but to giggle at Andica. "Oh please the hound is more noble than you" she teased "What are you even doing here? Mom told me you had finally got high in life, yet here you are, leaving town" as soon as she finished the question she waved her hand to the others "I'm Samieh by the way. I guess we will be on this one together eh?"

@DFTBA @Crimson Raven @Damiann47 @Jay Kalton

[twave]

TEAM EGGPLANT

@Skittles@Darinthus@Vee@Diggerton
The choice to leave was not an easy one. Sanaa had never really been free to move about the city much. Never in a million years had she imagined leaving Enn. Such a thing was unheard of, particularly of nobles. At least that was what she had always heard. She had not told anyone of her plans lest someone step in to stop her. To some extent she was excited to be doing something new. But the butterflies in her stomach said otherwise as well.

Having packed some essentials she set off for the defined location. Arriving on time she was surprised to see that there were quite a few others there already. Just as surprising was the range of classes it had drawn. From paupers, nobles, and everything inbetween. There were only a couple nobles that she recognized, and even then they had been passing encounters. Likely from one of the socials she had attended.

Not that it mattered who else was there. Surely everyone had their reasons just like her. A few others arrived after her and they collectively waited for the Traveler. It took longer for their host to arrive than anticipated. Finally he arrived and Sanaa took note of his strange appearance. Interestingly there wasn't any speech or proper introduction. No they were haphazardly divided into teams named after vegetables and told to grab a cage. Curious way to start. One of Sanaa's teammates spoke up and introduced herself as Emma. But, likely much to the young woman's relief, Sanaa didn't appear to recognize her. "Hello Emma. My name is Sanaa. I guess we're going to catch something." Figuring they'll have plenty of time to introduce themselves she took a cage and headed after Spook.

[jordy0403]

TEAM RUTABAGA

I was waiting, while others came and went. Some I recognized, others I didn't, but most of us were out here for one thing, this traveller, Spook. When it seemed he wouldn't come at all, out he came from a hotel. "Hi" He said. He divided us into teams, all of which had odd names. Broccoli, Carrot, Eggplant, and, the on I was in, Rutabaga.

This will be interesting, I thought, I was with a Fiametta, Meryn, Sweeney, and Telio Lennoci, as he introduced himself. I didn't know any of them personally, but I knew their names at least. As Telio was talking, I walked over to where a rope was hidden, and pulled it. A trap I had set earlier activated, with a buckets worth of water falling down on the others in my team.

Chuckling to myself, I went back to the other 'Rutabagas', they all knew what I had done, yet I felt no grief over it. "What? Some water never hurt anyone."

[DFTBA]

TEAM BROCCOLI

"I'll tell you in a couple of hours" Andica replied darkly, giving Samieh her best quelling glare, and hoping she's get the message to drop that subject faster than a piping hot head of broccoli
"Anyway, I'm just glad we'll be off now, finally getting into the journey. Speaking of which..." She turned back to Sharie.

"Hey goggles, think you can lead the Brave Broccolis?"

@Crimson Raven @Damiann47 @Jay Kalton @Magnato

[Damiann47]

Enn wasn't a small city by any means, so it was curious that those two had some sort of preexisting relationship, although Sharie wasn't quite sure what kind it is... but that really wasn't her business, at least not yet. Now it was clear that, Andica that's her name right? Well it was clear she didn't like whatever that Samieh girl was trying to bring up. Guess it's never too soon to start the drama.

Sharie cocked her head, "Guess I should be flattered, but uh... why me? I'm a complete stanger, shouldn't we chat a little before deciding on a leader? You know make sure we're more informed before we decide." Also while she didn't say so, she didn't exactly like being called 'goggles.'

---

TEAM BROCCOLI

@DFTBA @Crimson Raven @Jay Kalton @Magnato

[DFTBA]

TEAM BROCCOLI

@Crimson Raven @Damiann47 @Jay Kalton @Magnato

Well, perhaps not then. This had just got a bit awkward. Andica had hoped not to get caught up in this, too much. They were still hovering around the city gate, where she could be seen and dragged back. Picking a leader had really just been an excuse to hurry their departure, and they could always change later if they needed to or, obviously, found out what the leader would have to actually do. She had been called on her bluff, however, and now needed to come up with a justification on the fly. She fretted for a couple of seconds, bouncing back and forth on the balls of her feet while stealing nervous glances back at the city.

"Sorry, I'm just a bit on edge, keen to throw out a name and get going, you know? I picked you because you were the first to speak up, you're a bit older than me and my cousin here, you didn't wander off like that other guy, and she" - she indicated Scarlett - hasn't said anything yet."

[c3p-0h]

TEAM RUTABAGA

Meryn was leaning against the city wall, a bit away from the others, as they waited for Spook. She glanced around at the various faces. She recognized almost everyone, though she could only remember the names of a handful. This was who she was traveling with, then. Meryn eyed the few weapons dotting the crowd, and shifted her bag on her shoulder. Her few meager belongings were stowed within the worn, dirty cloth, a small knife hidden in her boot. Most of her money had been given to a few of the street kids the previous night, though she had enough to get by for a while still. Would she need much more? Some of the people around her seemed to think so. The only sign of her nerves was the silent rhythm her fingers tapped against her leg.

Then Spook finally showed up and gave them their assignments. It was rather anticlimactic, really. Meryn had no idea what a rutabaga was. Based on the other group names it was probably a vegetable of some sort…? Whatever it was, it sounded exotic. Or poisonous.

With a quiet sigh, she pushed off from the wall and made her way over to her group members. Best get acquainted, she supposed. She'd just arrived when the artist, Telio, started talking to the noble girl. What was her name again? Honestly, all the nobles sort of blurred together for her, and most of them thought to highly of themselves to hire the mute street rat to do their deliveries. Meryn was perfectly fine with that. Her eyes slid over to the other girl in the group, the baker. She couldn't seem to grasp her name either, but the corner of her mouth quirked up when she remembered the smells from the girl's shop.

Meryn's thoughts were suddenly cut off though, when a sudden downpour dropped onto her, soaking her through.

"What? Some water never hurt anyone."

And there went any motivation she had to get to know her group members. The picture of serenity, Meryn took off her bag and dropped it to the ground. Grabbing the back of her collar, she yanked her sopping jacket over her head, her dark braid tumbling down to her waist. With the way her loose jacket and hood hid her features, some who didn't know her might've been surprised at this point to discover she wasn't a boy.

Meryn casually grabbed two ends of her jacket, and began twirling it around until it formed a tight chord. Then with out warning, she let go with one hand and used the other to give her jacket a vicious snap in the militiaman's face. With that, she swung her jacket over one shoulder, and then picked up her bag and dropped it on the other. Meryn turned on her heel and took her first steps outside of the wall, grabbing a cage without slowing.

Excitement thrummed under her annoyance and she sped up after Spook. She slowed when she was a step behind him and a bit to the side. Meryn didn't bother to hide the way she looked up at him out of the corner of her eye, a question on her face.
@Takashi@jordy0403@Apokalipse@turboshitter@Mokley

[Irisity]

TEAM CARROT

@Bornlucky @needlingAsklepios @hoppiholla391

Amelia noted the other man, who gave a father/grandfather vibe off to her, and decided it was a good time to introduce herself. "I'm Amelia." She would've said "nice to meet you" but she had no mother or father to properly teach her manners. She noticed Spook walking away and she didn't want to be left behind, so she threw away the idea of becoming leader herself before grabbing Novas' and Miss Lily's hand before dragging them off. She turned her head to shout at the others. "Hurry up! We have an adventure to go to!" Even though she was a little girl, she still managed to drag Novas and Miss Lily with her (probably because they relented their adult strength, but don't tell her that).

Amelia stared in awe as the sun peaked over the hills, the light filtering between the leaves of the trees. A gentle breeze swept through her hair and settled onto the path leading to somewhere, anywhere, and nowhere. She giggled and bounced on the heels of her feet. She'd get to see her new horizons soon.

[Darinthus]

TEAM EGGPLANT

*

To Roy, the entire concept of being out of Enn's woods for a long period of time was entirely foreign. The tall green haired figure wandered the streets aimlessly, hopelessly lost as he attempted to find his way to the destination. As he walked he clutched the tree book tightly to his chest, and despite being as lost as he was still walked in determined strides to an unknown destination.

"City gates...city gates and no trees..." Roy frowned, still marching forward in determined uncertainty. The streets that normally bustled with crowds found themselves eerily empty. The once numerous glances he would receive found themselves limited to the occasional passerby, only for them to walk a little quicker to their destination. Roy thought somewhat on the worried some glances he received, clutching the tree book with one arm and swinging a heavy woodcutters ax with the other. Then it dawned on him, something that should have seemed pretty obvious with all the strange looks he had been receiving.

Is it possible that he could be...late?

He shook his head back and forth, trying to purge the negative thought out of his head. He couldn't be late, not today of all days. He had a lifelong goal he was going to fulfill, and no MATTER what...

...he was going to see those trees.

**

"No matter what." He ended to the confused looking woodcutters, his eyes fixed in determination as he clutched onto his book a little harder.

They all looked at the green haired woodcutter a little blankly. Someone coughed amidst the men. One of the head woodcutters, a burly man with an intense beard, stepped forward with some concern in his eyes.

"Roy...are you sure this is what you want? I asked you to pick up a review manual for the initiates, now your telling me you want to leave Enn with a stranger. Is something you've really put a lot of thought in?"

The green haired woodcutter nodded, not letting up on his intensive gaze. All these men practically were his family, and now he was telling all of them that he was leaving. Possibly for good. Many of them didn't take him seriously at first, however the more and more he held firm the more faces began to turn a little solemn. 'To lose a hell of a woodcutter...' were many of the common murmurs among the crowd. Roy may have been slow when it came to plenty outside of the forest, yet there was hardly anyone that could match his prowess with an ax. The woodcutter had a love for trees many of these men couldn't even begin to fathom, yet they all could eventually understand why he was making his choice. There wasn't a single person who could find the right argument to convince him to stay.

The intensely bearded woodcutter walked up to Roy a little teary eyed, clutching an intricately carved woodcutters ax with both arms. He wanted Roy to take it, as a sign of remembrance for all of them. They all half expected Roy to get lost before officially leaving Enn, but for those with the uncertainty of his return felt as if it was a fitting gift. The best woodcutters ax for a woodcutter they all respected, and perhaps coddled a little too much.

They wished for him to cherish it always.

**

"WOAH cool! Thanks for the ax!" A beaming child reached for the gifted ax, only to immediately drop it on the ground due to its weight. They other children assisted in picking up the dangerous weapon, all of them admiring to lovely craftsmanship. This was a gift that they would cherish always.

"But big bro, this was a present to you right? Why would you give this to us?" A little girl looked up at Roy with the same concern that the other woodcutters did, still not comprehending that he was planning on leaving. Roy reached out and grazed her hair with his hand, warmly smiling as he beckoned to the ax that was strapped against his back. "I like my ax."

"But it was a gift big bro! How will you remember your friends? How will you remember us!" The girl began to cry a little harder, as with many of the other children watching their mentor leave. Roy however still warmly smiled, resting the dangerous weapon to the ground and bringing all of them in for a warm embrace. He was a simple woodcutter with a simple dream, but even he understood the frightening concept of loss.

"The Woodcutter Creed states the idea of replacement, planting a new tree after one is taken away. In a way this ax is my way of giving back and planting a seed in your hearts, that someday you all will grow up to love trees as much as I do. I don't need anything to remember you all, as I will always remember my memories among these woods. Use this ax to create new memories in my absence, and no matter what?" He waited to allow the children to answer.

"REMEMBER THE WOODCUTTERS CREED!" They all giggled, still teary eyed but sending their friend off with a smile. Roy did not know if he would seem them again, but no matter he would never forget them. They enjoyed his passion for trees, and he would always be thankful for that.

He would always be thankful for his precious memories among the trees.

"Wait, if you want us to create memories with an ax then why didn't you give us yours big bro?"

Roy blankly stared at the girl who asked him this question, pulling out the ax from its strap and also holding it close to his chest. "I like my ax..."

***

Over time all of them accepted his choice to leave, as difficult and hard as it was to let go. None of them knew for certain whether he would last a day or century in the world outside of Enn, but they all knew what they needed to let him know:

"Big bro...the city gates are that way."

***

Despite all his wandering Roy eventually found his way to what appeared to be the city gates, though he harbored extreme disappointment towards the lack of trees in the surrounding area. Approaching Enn's walls he grimaced at just how ugly a place could be without the proper amount of trees. If the green haired woodcutter ever had his way then the entire city would be a forest, despite how extremely impractical that would be. He glumly wandered in being one of the last people to show up, though curiously staring at the masked traveler as he found his place among the crowd. Oddly enough no one was giving him odd glances as usual, too busy looking at the Traveler to look at him.

The woodcutter didn't care though, and despite his negative attitude towards his environment he knew that would change. Roy knew that once he stepped through those gates his life would change significantly, and he might achieve his goal in seeing those trees that he so desperately needed to. He didn't pay attention to his group assignments and he didn't pay attention as Spook and the others began to filter out. His head focused on his book and his ax: the two items that would be his tools in following the Woodcutters Creed. He focused on just what kind of trees he would find outside the city walls, finding himself bubbling with anticipation at the thought. This was it...this....wait....

He ran forward to catch up with the others, waving his ax wildly in the process.

*