Natural Mess

Beyond the Boundary

Sage looked around the massive room and her eyes landed on the giants. She'd never seen men so big and to move so quickly made her gut churn with anxiety. She watched Lord Cross stand up and address them. He even looked like a cruel man. Every part of him screamed intimidation. She slowly made her way toward the table, eyeing the delicious spread. As Four Swords spoke up her mouth formed an O and her eyebrows shot up. Was he deaf? Or maybe he didn't know what respectful meant. She was thankful that one of the twins spoke up quickly. However. she was soon scowling in his direction as he spoke on behalf of the "group." She did not like people speaking for her. Nonetheless she filled her cup with wine and raised it in the Lords direction shortly after the woman with the bad eye. "Aye" she found herself saying in response to the previous offers to accept such terms. She did this not to approve of the twin's attempt to take control but only to make up for Four Swords' blundering. An attempt to keep her head. Sage took a moment to consider the fact that nobody had returned from their attempts in the waste. She was indeed going to personally accept Cross' offer if the twin hadn't beaten her to it. The information about the area they were fixing venture into could be useful. That and supplies in return for only information? The longer she pondered it the more she wondered about its truthfulness. That seemed like a lot of stuff to just give away for a simple verification of truth.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage followed the group as she watched the people of the marketplace. The everyday hustle and bustle of the merchants was a welcome sight after her trek here from the last town. She couldn't wait to get back here and see what this diverse bunch had to offer. Even if she didn't have much to spend. Vulture's Roost's normal activity was comforting. ~How did such a vicious man come to be their leader?~ she found herself wondering. Having lived in Southern Gris for the last 5 years and loving to travel like she did, Sage found it hard to believe she had not visited this place sooner. Not that it was anything spectacular. Only that it was one of the very few places she had yet to see.

When the guard spoke she was reminded once again of Lord Cross's reputation. She wasn't disrespectful though and normally would have no reason to worry about losing her head. However, this was Alec Cross. She might "offend" him without ever knowing it. Sage vowed to keep quiet and thus hopefully depart with her head, and all other body parts, safely intact.

Beyond the Boundary

Nobody openly rejected the idea of the group traveling which wasn't all that surprising. She did not think anyone here was stupid. They knew the chances of surviving in the North were better in numbers. When the guard called down Sage whipped her head up to get a clear look at the guards on the wall. With the directions given the group began to move towards the opening gates.

Sage was thrilled to finally be going inside. Not so thrilled that she would be meeting with Lord Cross. She had heard rumors, as everyone else had, she was sure. She did not know if she should be apprehensive about this meeting but she was. Something didn't sit right with her. What care did Lord Cross have with their affairs?

As she filed in line behind the woman with the different colored eyes..or journalist..she hadn't decided what to call her yet, Sage was sure to walk a little off to the side so as not to have Four Swords completely out of view. Not that this was a necessary measure, what with the armed guards and all, but it was an instinct she'd adopted long ago, more of a compulsive need really, to be completely aware of her surroundings.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage listened to everyone one in turn making sure to note who seemed like they would be trouble. Anyone who was hired to get more than information could prove problematic. She'd make sure to watch out for the brothers and woman with the mismatched eyes just to be safe. In the middle of the the small talk a new member joined there group. and the first thing Sage noticed, was obviously his ridiculous demand for hot cider but more importantly the sound of metal clanging together. Upon closer inspection she realized the man was carrying four great swords across his back. She was taken aback by the insinuations this man was clearly trying to give off with his intimidating armory. Making a note of this man she turned back to the group. When it seemed that it was her turn to answer, Sage gave a small smile to the young boy and said "personal interest." It was a vague answer not because she had something to hide but because she didn't see a reason to disclose more about herself than necessary.

It was then she heard the journalist speak of the possibility of traveling in a group. Sage knew how true her words were and fully intended on sticking at least semi-close to anyone that chose to move in a group. She could tell this was a diverse group and figured the diversity would help keep everyone alive.

Sage's stomach cramped a little and she wished the guards would get this thing rolling so she could prepare herself for the harsh weeks to come. Hopefully it wouldn't all be for not and she could return home with what she was hoping to find.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage murmured her "yes" but that was all she offered. She didn't see why anyone needed to know why she was here. Her own personal interest stemmed from Rollan, the black smith that took her in. She had read Tikkis' book after Rollan had told her what an interesting concept it was. He didn't believe it was true but thought the idea interesting. Sage on the other hand did believe it was real, so she set out to see what she could find.

She was fully aware of the appraising looks everyone threw her way but it was understandable. After all she had done it to them. She enjoyed the young boys energetic, friendly nature. It was nice to see such a jovial soul. However, it was not enough to convince Sage to befriend him. She understood the practicality of traveling in a group while going through such a harsh area, but that didn't mean she had to like it. And she definitely did not like it. Some of these people could pose a real threat if she ever unintentionally, or otherwise, got in their way. She began to realize that there would be many more challenges than she first anticipated.

Sage's stomach gurgled again and she began rummaging in her pack for the last of her granola bars. Halfway through the search she decided it wouldn't be wise to show these strangers any sign of weakness and being ill prepared for this journey would show exactly that. So she closed her satchel and and resumed her listening.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage Marcs

Name: Sage Marcs
Age: 24
Gender: Female

Appearance: Sage stands 165cm (5’4”) and weighs 65kgs (145lbs). Her average build body is toned with muscle, but not enough to make her bulky. She’s in very good physical shape. She has golden brown locks that fall to her shoulders in silky waves. Her blueish gray eyes, rosy complexion, and full pink lips give her a soft, feminine look that is only marred by a long scar running from the skin right below her left ear to the middle of her neck.
Clothing: Sage wears a form fitting black cotton trousers accompanied by a long sleeve gray thermal shirt that also hugs her body. Her snug clothing has been carefully chosen to allow unrestricted movement. She has donned an olive green fleece jacket and thick gray wool cloak with a fur lined hood for her trip through the north. The black cotton gloves she wears are only because she knows she will need them on this journey. Sage hates to have any part of her body restricted, especially her hands. Her attire is brought together by the black, mid-calf, combat-like boots she always wears.

Weapons/Belongings: Sage always carries the five throwing knives she hand crafted to perfection. They are made of a strong steel and reach 6 inches in length. Sharp on both sides the skinny spade shaped blades blend into a thin grip with an open ring on the end that makes the daggers perfectly balanced. She keeps three of these belted to her hip and one in each boot. She has a small pouch with the few coins she has tied around her neck. Sage also carries a satchel that holds the few things she can actually call hers. This includes a whetstone for her knives, journal and pen for logging her adventures, a few letters she has held onto since childhood, and a first aid kit because she always seems to need one.

Magic: none

Personality: Sage mostly keeps to herself. She has gotten used to being alone and prefers it that way. Sage does not easily enter a friendship as she has trouble trusting anyone. She is not mean though just standoffish. She can be “charming and sweet” though, if it helps her out in the situation. Sage tries to be civil but her snarky attitude is easily coaxed out. Her spitfire tendencies do not often keep her in the good graces of people she meets, so it’s best for her to stay away from others. However, on the off chance Sage were to trust a person completely she is very caring and loyal. She does not believe in leaving a friend behind.

Short History: Sage Marcs was orphaned at the age of 12, thanks to a man her parents called a friend. Sage was in her tiny room when the man attacked. She stayed quiet until she knew that if she stayed any longer she too would be dead. So she ran from her room, startling the man who struck out with his knife, leaving the gash that would become a hideous reminder of that day. Luckily surprise was on her side and she was able to make it out of the house without any further harm. Her parents suffered a very different fate. She didn’t know her next of kin and was thus left on her own. Sage learned very quickly how to take care of herself, growing tough physically and mentally. Working her way across the continents she settled in southern Gris at the age of 19. There she was taken in by a blacksmith that taught her the trade. She spent the next 5 years working in secrecy at his shop, crafting beautiful weapons of all shapes and sizes. She also spent this time practicing her combat skills and became very good at close quarter encounters. Even though Sage likes to travel she will always return home to the father-like figure who gave her life meaning again.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage had spent the last several days trekking up to Vulture's Roost. She could see her destination now. Wrapping her cloak tighter, she picked up the pace, eager to be inside the walls. The cold had not been kind to her these last few days and her face was chapped along with any other skin unfortunate enough to be exposed. Lucky for her it wasn't much. She could use a rest and supplies. Her stomach growled as if to remind her that she had not eaten nearly enough that day. For the first time since leaving her home she was beginning to wonder if this journey would be worth it. But it would take more than a little raw skin to dissuade Sage from something she had set her mind to. Her whole body was practically frozen and she knew she'd definitely have to don a few more layers for the harsher north lands. She detested this idea, already hating the heavy, tangled feeling the thick cloak brought.

As she neared the gate she was met by an interesting group of people. Silently observing each one as she made her way to the gate Sage stated to the guard that she was headed north and was told she'd have to wait. "Of course" she mumbled to herself, sarcastically. With a nod she backed away slowly a moved to a spot away from the others. Socializing wasn't her thing. Sage kept her eyes on the two large men, very similar in features, as they were the only ones who looked immediately like they might be a danger. Her eyes quickly floated through the small group of people, observing them each a little closer. Her eyes landed on a young boy and his rough looking companion. She for the life of her could not figure out why two such people would be heading North. She glanced at the tall man who was engrossed in a book. Interesting way to pass the time. Sage would prefer to be over a blacksmith's anvil, feeling the heat from the fiery metal as she created something that was one of a kind. Not to be deterred from her scoping mission, Sage's eyes landed upon the last member of the part. She was taller than Sage but that was as far as her observations went because she didn't make it passed the woman's eyes. One was discolored and Sage wondered why she wouldn't just cover it up. Careful not to get caught staring, she quickly moved her gaze to the ground at her feet, waiting idly as she listened to her surroundings.

Beyond the Boundary

Sage Marcs

Name: Sage Marcs
Age: 24
Gender: Female

Appearance: Sage stands 165cm (5’4”) and weighs 65kgs (145lbs). Her average build body is toned with muscle, but not enough to make her bulky. She’s in very good physical shape. She has golden brown locks that fall to her shoulders in silky waves. Her blueish gray eyes, rosy complexion, and full pink lips give her a soft, feminine look that is only marred by a long scar running from the skin right below her left ear to the middle of her neck.
Clothing: Sage wears a form fitting black cotton trousers accompanied by a long sleeve gray thermal shirt that also hugs her body. Her snug clothing has been carefully chosen to allow unrestricted movement. She has donned an olive green fleece jacket and thick gray wool cloak with a fur lined hood for her trip through the north. The black cotton gloves she wears are only because she knows she will need them on this journey. Sage hates to have any part of her body restricted, especially her hands. Her attire is brought together by the black, mid-calf, combat-like boots she always wears.

Weapons/Belongings: Sage always carries the five throwing knives she hand crafted to perfection. They are made of a strong steel and reach 6 inches in length. Sharp on both sides the skinny spade shaped blades blend into a thin grip with an open ring on the end that makes the daggers perfectly balanced. She keeps three of these belted to her hip and one in each boot. She has a small pouch with the few coins she has tied around her neck. Sage also carries a satchel that holds the few things she can actually call hers. This includes a whetstone for her knives, journal and pen for logging her adventures, a few letters she has held onto since childhood, and a first aid kit because she always seems to need one.

Magic: none

Personality: Sage mostly keeps to herself. She has gotten used to being alone and prefers it that way. Sage does not easily enter a friendship as she has trouble trusting anyone. She is not mean though just standoffish. She can be “charming and sweet” though, if it helps her out in the situation. Sage tries to be civil but her snarky attitude is easily coaxed out. Her spitfire tendencies do not often keep her in the good graces of people she meets, so it’s best for her to stay away from others. However, on the off chance Sage were to trust a person completely she is very caring and loyal. She does not believe in leaving a friend behind.

Short History: Sage Marcs was orphaned at the age of 12, thanks to a man her parents called a friend. Sage was in her tiny room when the man attacked. She stayed quiet until she knew that if she stayed any longer she too would be dead. So she ran from her room, startling the man who struck out with his knife, leaving the gash that would become a hideous reminder of that day. Luckily surprise was on her side and she was able to make it out of the house without any further harm. Her parents suffered a very different fate. She didn’t know her next of kin and was thus left on her own. Sage learned very quickly how to take care of herself, growing tough physically and mentally. Working her way across the continents she settled in southern Gris at the age of 19. There she was taken in by a blacksmith that taught her the trade. She spent the next 5 years working in secrecy at his shop, crafting beautiful weapons of all shapes and sizes. She also spent this time practicing her combat skills and became very good at close quarter encounters. Even though Sage likes to travel she will always return home to the father-like figure who gave her life meaning again.

Beyond Death's Veil (Sightles and Natural Mess)

Lily rolled her eyes even though she knew Lewis wouldn't see it. ~a run would probably do me good right now~ she thought. Lily finished up what she was doing and walked toward the stairs. "yeah I'll do that." she went to her room to fix her hair, grumbling the whole way about what an inconsiderate jerk Lewis was. Once she'd fixed her hair she began hunting for her headphones. ~I know they're in here somewhere~ finding her headphones under her bed she grabbed her phone and King's leash from her dresser and headed back downstairs. As she found the shoes she'd haphazardly thrown she looked around for her dog. Whistling, she sat down to tie her shoes and clipped Kings leash on when he came bounding in and covered her with with wet kisses."enough of that." Lily said to her companion. "I'm going out. Try not to destroy anything" she called to Lewis in an annoyed way, as she reached for the door.

Beyond Death's Veil (Sightles and Natural Mess)

"yeah. You definitely know nothing about me." Lily said angrily, referring to the fact that Claire was just a corpse. "especially to me? What does that mean? I haven't done anything to you." Lily pulled herself off the couch and went to the kitchen, looking for something, anything to get her away from Lewis. She settled on the dishes. She couldn't believe this. He was treating her like she had ruined his life. Worst guide ever.