Helo

Avalia

Time: Dawn
Location: Roshmi City
Interactions: Nabarra @nasty, Yuka @princess, Aiko @CitrusArms
Equipment: Sword, bow and arrows, small knife, wayfinder, fire kit, a pouch with 217 amas

---

Orias answered Aiko’s question, sharing his chance meeting with the dark elf and Nabarra’s subsequent fight with a mysterious assailant on the rooftop. He shared with the demon a few details of his life, holding back just enough so that he was not thought of as a prince but rather a disgraced noble who left his home rather than further bring shame to his family. He shared his dream, why he’d come to live in Roshmi City, a hope for a fresh start and a simple and peaceful life far away from past sins. It was true enough that he felt his new ally would understand him without having to reveal his full identity. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Aiko, but rather that Biren was now a name that did not belong to him, that prince was a title he could never earn back even if he wanted to. He’d done his family no good, nor his people, the only good that could’ve come from him being linked to the Biren family had passed when he had failed to die alongside the three other princes the night before. So he kept that secret guarded, but shared his fear for sisters whom he did not name, and mentioning only that they held significant roles within the Light Elf army.

They had done all they could for Nabarra and now her fate was left to the whims of the gods. Before he slept he said a prayer to Solaris to look out for the dark elf, to light her path back to health, and one for his sisters and his home, so that they would be kept safe and that the God of Light would aid them in war. Night gave way to morning and at first light, he repeated his prayers sending them towards the heavens as Solaris’s first rays broke the night sky.

At early dawn, he left the room and headed to the tavern below moving quietly so as not to wake anyone who still slumbered. Roshmi was a city that was always bursting with life and energy, even during the darkest parts of the night and the earliest hours of twilight. Today was different; few signs of life could be seen outside the windows of the tavern, the early crowd was slow to shuffle in, and even the air felt heavy today. The Twin-Headed Dragon was due to arrive in the city this very day, and despite the incompetence that King Kasai ruled with, a heavy tension accompanied the coming regime change.

From the handful of patrons that collected in the tavern for an early breakfast, he was able to catch bits and pieces of events from the night before. A young weasel-like demihuman shared what he had learned from his portable solar box of the battle the light elves had fought all through the night.

“All through the night, they fought, beatin’ back them damned dark elves with all the force of the Sun Elf army they did. Killed a big mess of ‘em. Course the light ‘uns lost a few too. Said they lost a good bunch of supplies too. But…I mean your folk ain’t gonna let ‘em win right? Your folk gonna set this all right, right?” The nervous weasel demihuman stared at Orais expecting an answer.

Elves lived long lives, other races knew that they also tended to confuse age and wisdom as being one and the same. So even without knowing a thing about him, here this young demihuman sat looking at Orias as if he had an answer. The truth was that he didn’t have an answer to anything much less this, but that wouldn’t help anyone. If the light elves were sure of an easy victory they wouldn’t have gone so far as to have summoned an alien race for assistance. But the truth wouldn’t help the weasel demihuman soothe his fears.

“You can count on it. The best of my folk are, no doubt, out there right now shaping those humans into elite warriors. I’m sure you’ve heard tales of what humans can do.“ Orias said, his face remaining stoic so as not to betray any hint of his own uncertainty. Their collective fates all hung on a creature of myth and story.

There was a relief in having not heard a mention of either sister, they likely were far from the front lines of battle. Had anything happened to them he held no doubts that it would be public knowledge, The Twin-Headed Dragon were fans of spectacle after all.

“Yeah, my dad always loved to tell the story of two sisters of fire who could summon a big ol’ phoenix to vanquish their foes.” The weasel’s eyes lit up with hope as he recalled the story.

"My grandmother told me one about a dashing lad who swept his enemies away with the force of a hurricane.” An elderly wolf woman spoke up and soon the handful of demihumans ate and shared tales of mythical humans and their mighty feats.

Orias picked at his plate of eggs and toast and hoped the stories held at least a bit of truth, that humans were enough to make difference in the war. Eventually, he turned back to the young weasel seated near him to offer some advice.

“Perhaps now is a good time though, to cut your trip in Roshmi short.” He suggested quietly.

“You know I have been meaning to visit my parents, they retired down in Myraimor, keep on tellin’ me how much they love that desert heat. Maybe I ought to trek down there.” The demihuman weasel replied in agreement.

Orias continued to spend his morning in the tavern below, chatting occasionally with those that had news to share. He was more willing to let Aiko have their rest if they chose to do so and waited for Yuka to return as she had promised the night before.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: River Port
Interactions: none
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter, Kaleb@FunnyGuy, Eris and Raven@Tae
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (a bit less than an ounce), rolling papers, and 191 amas.

---

Bowyn awoke to find himself laying on a wooden floor next to a small puddle of drool and a disappointed empty bottle. Immediately, he tried to jump to his feet but the room felt like it was spinning from his sudden movement. The dizzy fairy slowly sank back down to the floor with his back pressed against the wall for support. Through squinted eyes, he tried to look around the room, which was filled with a horrible blinding light from an open window on a wall across from him. His head pounded, he could hear a bizarre ringing in his ears. No, that’s not in my head. He thought as he realized the awful sound was a cacophony of seagulls shrieking as they flew around outside. Stupid, loud, fucking birds. He thought as he began to remember where he was.

A room, in an inn, by the beach in River Port. At least he knew where he was and he groaned with annoyance as he realized he was now terribly hungover and sober. Everything hurt, his back especially, from the weird way he’d passed out on the floor near the door, sleeping in such a way so that if anyone did enter the room he’d notice. His stomach was nauseous and tied up in knots that kept making him feel like he needed to vomit all while having nothing in his stomach to vomit up. A terrible headache and dizziness made standing up feel like a near-impossible task. But nature’s call rang and the need to piss eventually overrode the desire to crawl up into a ball and wait for death.

On his way out of the room, he noticed that Arn’s bed was empty and unslept in. The dwarf hadn’t returned to the inn all night, yet another instance of strange behavior from Arn. Eventually, Bowyn found a bathroom in the inn and used the sink to give himself a makeshift bath as well. He smelled significantly better and the sunlight became almost tolerable as he adjusted to being awake. He still felt like shit so he rifled through his backpack until he found rolling papers and zemak. Slowly, Bowyn began to break up the dried plant and did his best to roll it up despite his shaking hands. He sat beneath the window and took a long slow drag on the joint which burned unevenly as he did so. The earthy taste did little to improve his dry mouth or the taste of bile that lingered in his throat but he held the smoke in his lungs for as long as he could, then let it out with a light cough.

Bowyn thought back on the parts of last night he could remember; drinking with two elves was enjoyable, even he had to admit he liked them both better than expected. Eris had been quick to ensure the mead never stopped flowing, and both elves had a way about them that made it easy to feel relaxed with them. He remembered someone else joining them, Val, a feline, who had a lot to say about this Princess Annya. From the bits he could recall, the elven princess sounded much worse than Arn. The trio shared many of his same fears and reservations, they had even treated him like a friend, and without a need for secrecy between them all, he had let his guard down a bit.

The only problem with last night was the absence of Rue. He continued to wonder if she bailed to avoid him or to get away from the elves. He couldn’t fault her for either; elves generally were an insufferable lot but a feeling in his gut told him it was more likely the first reason. He signed as the zemak joint began to burn a bit too close to his fingers and slowly stood up, flicking the end out the window. Bowyn changed into the clothes that Rue had given him the day before and felt another pang of guilt for having upset Rue.

Bowyn then paced back and forth down the hallway outside of the room. He almost knocked on Rue’s door a couple of times, he wasn’t sure if she was still there or not but decided he didn’t want to wake her if she was asleep. Eventually, the pacing only made him feel dizzier and the sound of his footsteps began to grate on his nerves. He tried to think of what he would say to Rue, the best way to apologize, only to have his mind trail off on him and his thoughts drift to food. Bowyn started thinking about honey toast and his stomach growled.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Myriamor
Interactions: none
Equipment: The clothes on his back and a pouch of amas.

---

As Leaf awoke to greet a new day he had but one thing on his mind, breakfast. The day before had been filled with tension; the promise of a great war upon Avalia’s horizon, humans summoned by light elves to battle the dark elves, and the horrific broadcast of the murder of several princes. It wasn’t so much that he thought breakfast was more important than yesterday’s concerns, but he had faith that light elves could handle all that. And breakfast was a very important meal, one couldn’t expect to have a great day without it.

Trouble was his most loyal companion, Star, an aging cheetah, still slept, and without intervention, she might very well snooze right through breakfast. Now, what sort of friend would I be if he let her miss breakfast? Leaf studied the sleeping cat for a moment before making his move. He lept across the small room towards the bed where the sleeping cat lay. Then in a burst of impressive speed and reflex, Star was gone and Leaf tumbled forwards and into the wall next to the now unoccupied bed.

“You test my patience cub,” Star growled as she stretched, claws digging into the wooden floor.

Leaf, who now laid on the bed, feet propped against the wall and head dangling off the side of the bed, grinned. “Breakfast time?” He spoke and his stomach then growled to emphasize his point.

The cheetah’s ears twitched at the thought of food and Leaf spun and jumped from the bed landing feet first on the floor. It was absolutely breakfast time. “Race you to the market.” He added before he shot towards the door. He grabbed a pouch of amas off a table, knocking the table over in his clumsy haste, and headed out into the desert from a small home on the outskirts of the city.

The only thing better than an excellent breakfast was starting the day with a good run before breakfast. Leaf ran, feet occasionally slipping in the sand but never quite losing his balance, and for just the briefest of moments, he almost believed he could fly. The warm sun beat down upon the city in heart of a desert oasis, and despite the handful of other places Leaf had seen, he knew no other city was as beautiful and free as Myriamor. He loved the way the air smelled here, the sand on his feet, and the wind that blew through his fur.

Star quickly caught up to him, the agile cheetah easily matching his speed but moving more gracefully than he ever could. Inside the main part of the city was a collage of beautiful sandy-colored buildings decorated with splashes of greenery that blurred together as the pair ran. Leaf weaved around people, jumping over the occasional obstacle in his path, as the scent of the various food stalls drew closer.

When he was almost at the stopping point he glanced around for Star and didn’t catch sight of the cheetah. Today was finally the day he bested the old gal in a race and Leaf couldn’t be more excited about his near victory.

“Loser eats a sal-” A flash of gold moved from behind a fountain and between his feet causing the feline demihuman to lose his balance and tumble forwards, landing in the shallow water. Leaf lept with all four limbs, higher than he really thought himself capable of, and threw himself out of the water. “A rotten trick.” He said as he tried to shake the water from his fur and clothing.

“Loser eats a salad?” Star asked with a sound that was somewhere between a purr and a laugh.

“I was going to say salmon.” He lied and leaned against the fountain dipping his paw in and splashing some of the water at Star. “Maybe you could find me one?” He asked with a toothy grin. Star then let out a soft growl of annoyance and shook the water from her own fur.

Now wet, a little tired, and very hungry, Leaf made his way to a butcher shop and purchased a few fresh cuts for Star before heading to a food stall where he purchased some sticks of grilled and spiced meat. Despite the dreadful encounter with the fountain he was now content with a full belly and ready to wander the city for a bit.

Avalia

The Runner

I Won't Let Go

---

Leaf on the Wind ⋆ 19 ⋆ Male ⋆ Demhuman

Appearance

Height:

5’10

Weight:

160lbs

Fur Color:

Cheetah print

Eye Color:

Amber

Psychology

Likes:

⋆Meat
⋆Hunting
⋆Running
⋆Adventure
⋆Stories
⋆Music
⋆Dancing

Dislikes:

⋆Cruelty
⋆Water(Can’t Swim)
⋆Failure
⋆Boredom
⋆Waiting
⋆Cold
⋆Uncontained fire

Fears:

⋆Loss of freedom
⋆Hurting people
⋆Dragons
⋆Water/Drowning
⋆What the world will become if dark elves take over

Sexuality:

Heterosexual

Personality:

An extrovert, eternal optimist, and seeker of new experiences; Leaf is outgoing and good-natured. A happy-go-lucky feline who tends to see strangers as a friend he is meeting for the first time. Leaf carries a kind and warm nature. He strives to follow the rule of law when possible and so long as the law is just, and believes in doing what is right. He will always help others, even if it is to his detriment, and cannot leave another to die or suffer if it is within his capabilities to help. He will almost always choose to protect others, even if it means risking his life, and even when it comes to his enemies he will show mercy when possible. Leaf naturally puts others first and he is quick to see the good in those around him.

Leaf is not without a temper, but is quick to forgive most things, and more than willing to set things right if he has wronged another. He is a proud cat, stubborn, and impulsive. He often fails to meet the high standards he sets for himself, and it has always been easier to forgive others than himself. He places great value on bravery, and he does not allow fear to hold him back. He carries courage not only in battle but in all aspects of his life; he strives to meet any challenge set before him, to conduct himself with honor, and do what is right. He has little patience, he hates waiting, boredom, and stagnation in life. Leaf craves excitement, new experiences, and adventure.

He is a simple cat, no great strategist, and prefers to use his physicality over wits. He is far too honest a cat to attempt to manipulate others. Lying leaves him sick with guilt over such things and he is only able to convincingly lie to himself. Leaf also trusts others very easily, often oblivious to the fact others do not share his hesitation to lie, cheat, or steal. His warmth and genuine nature draw others in, and he is fiercely protective and loyal to those around him. Leaf laughs easily, but his pride can lead him to take himself too seriously at times. When his mood turns sour he often sulks, grows quiet, or goes off alone to run. His energy tends to run high, endurance has never been an issue for him, but he also appreciates a good nap in the sun.

Background

Occupation

Freelancer

Living Immediate Family Members:

Thunder that Shakes the Mountian-Father, only known living relative, but half-siblings are possible.

Dead Immediate Family Members:

Diamond in the Rough-Mother

Current Companions:

None

Current and Past Lover(s):

None

History:

Leaf on the Wind was born in Myriamor, the oasis within Avalia’s great dessert. His mother, Diamond in the Rough, died when he was very young and he has very few memories of her. He remembers the story of his name, how his mother told him of how he always tried to run before he could walk. How she knew he would grow to one day be as swift and graceful as the wind. He remembers his mother raising him on stories of the great heroes of Avalia, tales of honor and valor, and he dreamed of emulating that greatest as well. His mother who was always full of joy and song and dance, was there one day and gone another.

Then as a cub, he was alone; old enough to feel sorrow but too young to understand it all. He knew his father through name and reputation alone, a man nothing like the great heroes of old. Thunder that Shakes the Mountian, a wanted man who stole, cheated, and killed. Leaf had not yet met his father, he knew only enough to know that he had been better off without him in his life. And even though he was well cared for in an orphanage, kept fed, and treated well, it was not a home, not a family. Against his better judgment, he spent years searching, following every lead to try and find the last bit of family he had left in the world. Once it became clear his father was not in Myriamor, Leaf left his home for the first time, working for traveling merchants in the hopes that he could find a led elsewhere in Avalia.

Leaf finally found his father in Roshmi City, at a time when the young cat was no longer a child but not quite a man. At first, Thunder was all he wanted in a father, a strong cat who taught him to fight and made him feel finally at home again. He had a family once more, he had someone to teach him, to raise him to be a man. But what he found underneath the surface was a cold and calculating man. His father slowly manipulated him, used him, brought him into a criminal organization. For a while Leaf convinced himself that it was worth it, to be with family, to think he had a home. He stole, he hurt innocent people, he wandered so far from the path he had dreamed of as a cub. He did it all to gain Thunder’s approval, truly believing his father saw him as a son and not just another pawn to use.

Then he was nearly caught, and the thought of being sent to prison or losing a hand, or even his life, became a real and terrifying possibility. At that moment he knew Thunder wouldn’t lift a paw to help him, he was on his own and had been the entire time he’d been in Roshmi City. In his desperate attempt to escape Leaf mauled a Predator, one of Roshmi’s esteemed police force, nearly to death. Horrified at both what he had done and who he was becoming, Leaf left the Predator on the steps of the healing center and fled the city the same night. He never betrayed his father, but he never contacted him again either. He had never really been a father anyhow, it had only been a lie that he’d made himself believe.

He returned to the only place that had been his home, Myriamor, and waited for bounty hunters to come for him. But they never did, no one knew what he’d done and his name wasn’t attached to any of his crimes. He convinced himself that the Predator was likely healed and fine, and he could start over, forget what he’d done. So that is what Leaf did, he set out, determined to live an honest life and bring honor to his name. He worked for traveling merchants, going anywhere but back to Roshmi City of course, and focused on every new adventure. He found himself in the company of a cheetah who became his dearest friend and who he names, Star that Shines the Brightest.

Star that Shines the Brightest

Combat and Magic:

Strength: 6
Speed on Land: 10
Speed in Air: 0
Magical Ability: 0
Dexterity: 7
Weapon Proficiency: 5
Stealth: 8

Species of Demihuman

Cheetah

Best Ability from Beast Side:

-Razor sharp teeth and claws
-Speed and endurance
-Heightened senses
-Cat-like relfexes

Avalia

The Runner

I Won't Let Go

---

Leaf on the Wind ⋆ 19 ⋆ Male ⋆ Demhuman

Appearance

Height:

5’10

Weight:

160lbs

Fur Color:

Cheetah print

Eye Color:

Amber

Psychology

Likes:

⋆Meat
⋆Hunting
⋆Running
⋆Adventure
⋆Stories
⋆Music
⋆Dancing

Dislikes:

⋆Cruelty
⋆Water(Can’t Swim)
⋆Failure
⋆Boredom
⋆Waiting
⋆Cold
⋆Uncontained fire

Fears:

⋆Loss of freedom
⋆Hurting people
⋆Dragons
⋆Water/Drowning
⋆What the world will become if dark elves take over

Sexuality:

Heterosexual

Personality:

An extrovert, eternal optimist, and seeker of new experiences; Leaf is outgoing and good-natured. A happy-go-lucky feline who tends to see strangers as a friend he is meeting for the first time. Leaf carries a kind and warm nature. He strives to follow the rule of law when possible and so long as the law is just, and believes in doing what is right. He will always help others, even if it is to his detriment, and cannot leave another to die or suffer if it is within his capabilities to help. He will almost always choose to protect others, even if it means risking his life, and even when it comes to his enemies he will show mercy when possible. Leaf naturally puts others first and he is quick to see the good in those around him.

Leaf is not without a temper, but is quick to forgive most things, and more than willing to set things right if he has wronged another. He is a proud cat, stubborn, and impulsive. He often fails to meet the high standards he sets for himself, and it has always been easier to forgive others than himself. He places great value on bravery, and he does not allow fear to hold him back. He carries courage not only in battle but in all aspects of his life; he strives to meet any challenge set before him, to conduct himself with honor, and do what is right. He has little patience, he hates waiting, boredom, and stagnation in life. Leaf craves excitement, new experiences, and adventure.

He is a simple cat, no great strategist, and prefers to use his physicality over wits. He is far too honest a cat to attempt to manipulate others. Lying leaves him sick with guilt over such things and he is only able to convincingly lie to himself. Leaf also trusts others very easily, often oblivious to the fact others do not share his hesitation to lie, cheat, or steal. His warmth and genuine nature draw others in, and he is fiercely protective and loyal to those around him. Leaf laughs easily, but his pride can lead him to take himself too seriously at times. When his mood turns sour he often sulks, grows quiet, or goes off alone to run. His energy tends to run high, endurance has never been an issue for him, but he also appreciates a good nap in the sun.

Background

Occupation

Freelancer

Living Immediate Family Members:

Thunder that Shakes the Mountian-Father, only known living relative, but half-siblings are possible.

Dead Immediate Family Members:

Diamond in the Rough-Mother

Current Companions:

None

Current and Past Lover(s):

None

History:

Leaf on the Wind was born in Myriamor, the oasis within Avalia’s great dessert. His mother, Diamond in the Rough, died when he was very young and he has very few memories of her. He remembers the story of his name, how his mother told him of how he always tried to run before he could walk. How she knew he would grow to one day be as swift and graceful as the wind. He remembers his mother raising him on stories of the great heroes of Avalia, tales of honor and valor, and he dreamed of emulating that greatest as well. His mother who was always full of joy and song and dance, was there one day and gone another.

Then as a cub, he was alone; old enough to feel sorrow but too young to understand it all. He knew his father through name and reputation alone, a man nothing like the great heroes of old. Thunder that Shakes the Mountian, a wanted man who stole, cheated, and killed. Leaf had not yet met his father, he knew only enough to know that he had been better off without him in his life. And even though he was well cared for in an orphanage, kept fed, and treated well, it was not a home, not a family. Against his better judgment, he spent years searching, following every lead to try and find the last bit of family he had left in the world. Once it became clear his father was not in Myriamor, Leaf left his home for the first time, working for traveling merchants in the hopes that he could find a led elsewhere in Avalia.

Leaf finally found his father in Roshmi City, at a time when the young cat was no longer a child but not quite a man. At first, Thunder was all he wanted in a father, a strong cat who taught him to fight and made him feel finally at home again. He had a family once more, he had someone to teach him, to raise him to be a man. But what he found underneath the surface was a cold and calculating man. His father slowly manipulated him, used him, brought him into a criminal organization. For a while Leaf convinced himself that it was worth it, to be with family, to think he had a home. He stole, he hurt innocent people, he wandered so far from the path he had dreamed of as a cub. He did it all to gain Thunder’s approval, truly believing his father saw him as a son and not just another pawn to use.

Then he was nearly caught, and the thought of being sent to prison or losing a hand, or even his life, became a real and terrifying possibility. At that moment he knew Thunder wouldn’t lift a paw to help him, he was on his own and had been the entire time he’d been in Roshmi City. In his desperate attempt to escape Leaf mauled a Predator, one of Roshmi’s esteemed police force, nearly to death. Horrified at both what he had done and who he was becoming, Leaf left the Predator on the steps of the healing center and fled the city the same night. He never betrayed his father, but he never contacted him again either. He had never really been a father anyhow, it had only been a lie that he’d made himself believe.

He returned to the only place that had been his home, Myriamor, and waited for bounty hunters to come for him. But they never did, no one knew what he’d done and his name wasn’t attached to any of his crimes. He convinced himself that the Predator was likely healed and fine, and he could start over, forget what he’d done. So that is what Leaf did, he set out, determined to live an honest life and bring honor to his name. He worked for traveling merchants, going anywhere but back to Roshmi City of course, and focused on every new adventure. He found himself in the company of a cheetah who became his dearest friend and who he names, Star that Shines the Brightest.

Star that Shines the Brightest

Combat and Magic:

Strength: 6
Speed on Land: 10
Speed in Air: 0
Magical Ability: 0
Dexterity: 7
Weapon Proficiency: 5
Stealth: 8

Species of Demihuman

Cheetah

Best Ability from Beast Side:

-Razor sharp teeth and claws
-Speed and endurance
-Heightened senses
-Cat-like relfexes

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter, Eris@Tae
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (1 ounce), rolling papers, and 91 amas.

---

Bowyn nodded, satisfied as he caught the uneasy look on Kaleb as the elf studied the wolf. It seemed the elf would be thinking twice before doing anything to upset Mooney and Bowyn liked that added sense of security. His ears caught distant shouting that echoed loud enough to be heard over the normal noise of the port town, coming from one of the nearby shops. The winter fae rolled his eyes at the continued lack of civility that ran rampant through the rest of Avalia. Wouldn’t find a scene like that back home. He thought and Kaleb went on to suggest they grab a drink rather than search for Arn. Since they’d already run into Rue, Bowyn saw no need to argue. In fact, he and Kaleb seemed to be on the same page.

“Ya know, you speak more sense than any elf I’ve met.” Bowyn said, more than a bit surprised but willing to hang around the flashy elf if it meant they were going drinking. Kaleb had mentioned earlier he was looking to party and once the elf had a few he’d be much easier to get information out of. Mainly why an elf had to travel to River Port to join an elf-led war. Certainly, the Sun Elf armies would be more than willing to take on new recruits, unless Kaleb thought himself a more valuable asset, useful to the princess herself. Was he one of those older than dirt elves who could summon humans at his whim? Hopefully, a few strong drinks could loosen some secrets from him, and to Bowyn alcohol could really only help any given situation.

Then another elf, this one introduced herself as Eris, linked her arm with Kaleb's, and offered him toast. Eris went on to share the details of the earlier heard commotion. A pair of elves had started a fight with a shopkeeper over prices, attacking the vendor and frightening another demihuman who was tired of their violence. And of course, in the midst of all the conflict, was a dwarf there eyeing up one of the elves. Wonder who that dwarf is. Maybe Arn got tired of looking for a princess and settled for whoever caught his wandering eye.

“Bowyn.” He said gesturing to himself after Eris introduced herself. “And Kaleb here was just suggesting we grab a drink, and since I’d rather not run into the local enforcements here, I suggest we head over there now.” He added then glanced over at Rue to hear her thoughts on it.

---

Time: 7 pm, Soller
Location: Aiko's room
Interactions: Nabarra@nasty, Yuka@princess, Aiko@CitrusArms
Equipment: Sword, bow and arrows, small knife, wayfinder, fire kit, a pouch with 117 amas

---

It was decided Yuka would indeed leave to find an antidote and the lioness was soon gone. Aiko continued to tend to Nabarra’s wound and Orias, Orias waited unsure of what to do. Healing and wound care were just another one of his lessons that he had written off in his youth as useless. What did a prince need to know of medicine when they had servents for such things? One of the many mistakes of his youth, a youth spent learning only how to cause harm, to wield a blade, and of how to care for only himself. And what had changed? Sure, he now made blades for others to wield, years as a blacksmith in the foolish hope that the work of forging raw materials into something of use would, in turn, reforge him into something of use. But when the raw materials used were of such poor quality you couldn’t hope to forge anything worthwhile. The same, likely true of elves.

He could’ve helped Nabarra on the rooftop, maybe even prevented all of this, but he had left the dark elf to sort it out alone. Why? Because she shared the face of his people’s enemy. Have I changed at all? Or am I still repeating the same failures? Is this why, despite the prayers and offerings to Solaris, my magic still fails? And just like that there it was again, the looming shadow that followed him. The remembrance of so many failures; when he acted, when he did not act, either way, the same result. So he paced the room, occasionally pausing by the door to listen for any sign of intruders just in case anyone from the tavern had violence on their minds.

“So, this shapeshifting ability, not very common amongst other fox folks right? Useful though, a lot better than a 3 ama cat mask.” Orais spoke, attempting to make small talk with the likely not a demihuman as the awkward silence only served to allow his mind to wander.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (1 ounce), rolling papers, and 91 amas.

---

Bowyn nodded as Kaleb assured him that he had a more reliable source than Arn who confirmed Annya was in River Port. Maybe it was true, but it didn’t bring him any comfort. His thoughts still focused on Arn and everything he’d heard from Kaleb about the dwarf. That jackass, too busy ogling, not the type of guy you place your faith in, the rascal. Kaleb had painted a clear picture of who Arn really was, one that Bowyn found easier to believe existed than a truly humble and honest prince of any sort.

Perhaps Kaleb was Bowyn’s lucky charm because right as the elf offered to help find Rue and Arn, Mooney strolled up to them. Where the wolf was, Rue was never far behind, and soon Bowyn spotted her as Rue landed with enough grace that any bird who saw her would feel a pang of jealousy.

“Rue.” Bowyn grinned as the immediate sense of relief washed over him. Rue was fine, and even better, Arn was nowhere to be seen. Although Rue was smiling, her eyes were tinged with sorrow. Was he to blame for that or was this Arn’s doing? And where was Arn? Out trying to ogle a princess? Probably having a grand time exploring the intricacies of diplomacy.

He frowned as Rue announced that Mooney wouldn’t attack and Kaleb went on to refer to the wolf as a pet. “Pet? I wouldn’t let him hear that. Ol’ Mooney here can hold a grudge. And he doesn’t attack because she doesn’t want him to. Best to keep that in mind, some big, nasty teeth on this one.” Bowyn said, and he spoke calmly like it was just as a fact, rather than a threat. It was better to have strangers think Rue tamed vicious beasts as bodyguards. And it would clue Rue in that he saw Kaleb as nothing more than another stranger.

“Guess who Kaleb’s looking for? Annya. Seems like her being here is Avalia’s worst-kept secret. And, Kaleb here, happens to know Arn as well, small world huh.” Bowyn added, stopping himself from adding in that he’d heard nothing good about Arn from elf. He didn’t want to point out that he was right, it wouldn’t help anything. One elf’s words weren’t solid proof of anything and there was no need to disappoint Rue.

Avalia

Time: Evening, Soller
Location: Outside The Nest
Interactions: Nabarra @nasty, Yuka @princess, Aiko @CitrusArms
Equipment: Sword, bow and arrows, small knife, wayfinder, fire kit, a pouch with 117 amas

---

Aiko’s swift and adept hands immediately went to bandage Nabarra’s wounds. However, the dark elf remained unresponsive, even despite Yuka’s best efforts to goad a reaction from Nabarra. He turned to agree with Yuka about purchasing more potions and noticed the change in the demihuman’s expression. Yuka’s eyes had glazed over and a look that made it seem as if she were very far away replaced the overly confident grin the demihuman normally wore. Just as quickly as the lioness had fallen into a haze she snapped back out of it. Based on her strange and erratic behavior, Orias could only assume she was inebriated with something other than just alcohol. Whatever was going on with the feline though was simply a lesser concern. The lioness seemed to know exactly what potion to get, and the feline appeared to be the obvious choice to move quickly through the city.

“A fine suggestion, you think you can manage without becoming distracted? Because if we want to undermine Kasai and his repugnant alliance, we will need this elf on our side. Who better to undermine dark elf forces than one of their own?” Orias spoke softly with eyes focused on the lioness. While he didn’t doubt her hate for Roshmi’s king, he had little confidence in her ability to approach things with a sense of gravity or urgency. The idea of this rebellion, of preventing the full weight of this alliance from crushing Roshmi City and corrupting it into a place of darkness, felt like the first worthy endeavor in decades. To regain any favor with his own family was beyond hope, but with Solaris, this might be his best chance.

---

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (1 ounce), rolling papers, and 91 amas.

---

Bown’s pace picked up as Kaleb lead him to where he had last seen Rue and Arn. While the fairy didn’t disagree with anything the elf said, every word about Arn clawed at his mind and further aggravated him. He only caught bits of what Kaleb said, Arn, salivating like a wolf, Arn, making no effort to greet Kaleb. Typical prince behavior, to toss a friend aside when they aren’t of use. He thought as he shook his head. Bowyn was fully convinced that everything he’d seen of Arn earlier was probably fake, trying to gain his and Rue’s trust for whatever scheme he was up to. Everything Kaleb continued to say only added to his anger with Arn.

Ogling. The word slithered around in Bowyn’s head. He couldn’t even picture Arn the way he had earlier, there was no mental image of a mild manner soldier who couldn’t understand sarcasm. Now all his thoughts of Arn had morphed into a treacherous prince with hungry eyes like a predator. Ogling Rue. And Rue was trying to help the dwarf, out she searching for a princess on Arn’s wild goose chase. It didn’t even sound like Arn was looking for Annya in the slightest.

“Ogling.” Bowyn repeated the word with disgust, making no effort to veil his opinion on Arn. “That creepy little tree stump.” He muttered to himself as he looked around the street Kaleb had led him to. “You sure this princess is even here? Maybe Arn lied about that too?” He asked Kaleb in a hushed tone. Bowyn only believed Annya to be here because Arn had said it, and he was certain now that he couldn’t trust anything that came from Arn. The back of his mind nagged that he really shouldn’t trust this strange elf he just met either. But Kaleb made sense, everything he said just proved Bowyn was right about Arn.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (1 ounce), rolling papers, and 91 amas(30 amas added from posting bonus).

---

A quick flash of excitement sparked in Bowyn’s eyes as Kelab mentioned seeing a winter fairy with a dwarf and a large dog following her. Had to be Rue. Although the way Kaleb phrased it, put on Bowyn on edge, and he grew quiet. He didn’t pay much attention to the rest of what Kaleb said, if he’d been paying closer attention he would’ve noticed how strange it was that the other man had nearly called Rue a pixie. Or he might’ve found it odd that Kaleb had simply said a dwarf rather than called Arn by his name. But Bowyn was only thinking about Rue, and how this elf had definitely seen her, and how it almost sounded like she was trying to get away from Arn.

But then he thought of the large dog Kaleb had also mentioned. Mooney, for sure. And Bowyn was pretty sure this soft-looking elf wouldn’t know a wolf from a dog until it bit him. If Rue was in any danger Mooney wouldn’t just be following along with Arn. Unlike dwarves or elves, wolves could be trusted. Wolves didn't deceive, they had no reason to, and Mooney would protect Rue no matter the cost. Bowyn knew that, even without the ability to speak directly to the wolf, he knew Mooney was as loyal as any domesticated animal. So if Arn was up to anything, the dwarf hadn’t acted yet, or he’d have to go through Mooney first. So as of whenever it was this elf saw them, Rue was still safe. This was good news then. Rue was still safe and smart enough to be keeping herself out of Arn’s reach.

“Think it might’ve been a wolf?” Bowyn asked, although he was already certain it had been. He doubted there were very many winter fae hanging around River Port. He wondered what it was like to be so sheltered you could look right at a wolf and mistake it for a pet. “I think we should head over to where you saw them, Arn and Rue, and the wolf. Then we can all go and search every tavern and hot spot in town for the princess. And, added bonus, Arn’s been offering to throw amas around all day.” He added, figuring he’d thrown in the right incentives to rope Kaleb in. Running into this elf might’ve actually been a stroke of good luck; either Kaleb could help him warn Rue that Arn was dangerous or if the elf was a friend of Arn, they could leave Arn with the elf and Rue wouldn’t have to worry about the dwarf being left alone. It seemed like almost a solid plan as long as this elf wasn’t more trouble than Arn.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: River Port
Interactions: Kaleb @FunnyGuy
Mentions: Arn @Omni5876, Rue@Potter
Equipment: 1 hunting knife, a flask of alcohol, a backpack, small tent, blanket, waterskin, rope, fire starting kit, lightmaker, cooking pot, a bar of soap, some drugs; skaula (8 grams) and zemak (1 ounce), rolling papers, and 61 amas(30 amas added from posting bonus).

---

Bowyn nodded, listening and thinking over what Kaleb had said, as the other man followed. This elf had confirmed Bowyn’s suspicions about Annya. Exactly what he expected of an elven princess; spoiled, selfish, and useless. No surprises there. At least this elf talked a lot of sense. Kaleb went on to suggest Bowyn imagine this town was wealthy. He gave a sad chuckle, the elf certainly had a point. No one seemed overly concerned with the war; they were shopping, drinking, and feasting. He could only imagine how much easier it was for those who lived in opulent palaces to further ignore problems when they couldn’t even see over their gilded fences.

Unlike Kaleb, Bowyn was not so concerned with secrecy as the man mentioned the humans brought to Avalia. Like most things, Bowyn had a strong opinion about this subject and he was not afraid to voice his full thoughts on the matter. He spoke casually, not caring if his thoughts on summoning humans, or the entire Biren line, bothered the elf.

“Humans, yeah, that right there; typical monarch behavior. Summoning humans to clean up their mess. Shoulda dealt with dark elves right the first time. But no, those light elves of the past chose to keep their hands clean, push their problem off to the rest of Avalia and ignore it until it turned around to bite them, and all the rest of us, right on the ass. And now they’re still trying to pass this shit off. To an alien race. Can you imagine? Snatching up creatures from an entirely different world to use them as pawns in a war. A war they caused. Between you, me, and the rest of the damn world, the entire Biren family is one big shit show. Humans didn’t deserve this.” It didn’t matter to Bowyn how powerful they could be, only that they never had a choice in coming here.

“And I do not work for Arn, and I’m not helping you. I work for me. I’m helping me. Look at me, you think I hang out around princesses? Don’t even know what she looks like. You, you kinda look like you might. But I met Arn at a tavern and thought it sounded like a good idea to find this Annya, see if I could help cause the dark elves pain. And that is not out of any goodness in the heart.” Bowyn wondered about the elf, how he knew Arn, if he had worked for him, or if he was still working for him.

“And let me know if you see Arn around. He’s with a friend of mine; similar complexion, but better looking, and she’s still got the wings.” He added, vaguely describing Rue. He kept an eye on the elf, to see if he’d seen Arn and Rue around, and to see how he’d react. If Arn was up to something maybe this elf who knew him would know something about it.