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Kyle laughed at Jenny's antics. He donned the hat and just sat back. When the mysterious light came out, he simply nodded. Jenny caught the girl when she feinted. The Light may have had something to do with the heroes. He honestly didn't care. He began to shout orders to the crew. When Jenny came over, he simply nodded and began telling the crew to work faster.
(FYI I',m figuring the Airship works kinda like the solar ships from Treasure Planet.)
[[Warning: Short post! Warning: Short post! Warning: Short post!]]
Nudging Rynn's arm, the male seemed to wedge his head between her elbow and hip. His cold nose was pressed against her naked flesh and it seemed to bobble a bit as it situated itself in its new, but temporary, location.
As the warmth from her body was absorbed into his own, Nick's mouth slipped open just a crack. Although the gap was small, it didn't stop the stringy liquid from seeping into her leg and causing a damp spot. If a dam were to be built, it wouldn't do him any good. Although it would have stopped the drooling, it would have caused the male to suffocate. Neither option was that good, but both would make for great blackmail material, should Rynn decide to use it to her advantage.
"Nya, nya, nya," he purred lightly while still holding onto Rynn's hand.
An elegantly clad, high-heeled shoe tapped impatiently on the tarmac of one of the few private airstrips of the city Vesper. The shoe and its owner, Garnette Noelle Piccho, looked out of place there. With her auburn colored hair and expensive clothing, Garnette stood out like a flashing light, not that she minded, in fact she rather enjoyed it. Many in the city proper had thought that she was a Cor la'Ronk, but in actuality, she was a Kni la'Ronk, as they quickly found out.
Garnette looked towards the sky, arms crossed around her chest. This small airstrip in Nazzinivia was one of the last places on the planet that she wanted to be. While the volcano was a pleasant sight, the wind and dust were not favorable for her hair and clothes. She sighed, looking at a pocket watch she withdrew from the pocket of her long jacket. Patience was not one of her strong suits.
She was waiting for two different airships that should be arriving there, she just didn't know when they would get there. One of them had her boss, Jenny Lynn Walker aboard. Garnette had gotten word that her boss might show up in Vesper. Deciding not to risk not being there should she show up, Garnette traveled there in haste. This got here there before the rest.
The second airship would contain the reason she was not with her boss at the moment. Despite being the guard to Jenny Lynn, she did not even need one. Everyone knew it, but it was Garnette's job all the same. Appearances had to be maintained. The other airship would contain her spy. He had posed as the Ice Hero to gather some information on the rest of them. He had suggested to meet her there to tell her what he had gathered.
Finally, she saw the spec of an arriving aircraft coming towards the tarmac. Her foot sped up as she waited for the ship to land and the doors to open. Once they did, she could see that it was her spy who had arrived first.
"Hello there, Miss Garnette," the young man said, bowing slightly at her. Garnette smiled slightly, some might say it was a sweet smile, but it was all a ruse, though she did appreciate his formality.
"Li'ing, my dear. Come inside, let's get you some tea, and we'll talk," she told him, pulling him inside a small building near the tarmac, which she had rented out for the duration of her stay there. Once inside, she led him to a small parlor area where they both sat down. It put her back on an even level, with him being over a foot taller than her. "Now, tell me what you found out," she told him, after preparing herself a cup of tea.
***She was please when he told her everything. It was all good news for her and Jenny Lynn. Now all she had to do was wait for her to arrive. She looked out at the now dark tarmac. There was no way she was going to stand outside all night. She'd go out after she saw the aircraft's lights approach.
((Ignore this, wanted to react to Miel's post!))
Cole was glad to be back in New Vegra. As bad as the city was the majority of the time, it was still home for him. He couldn't say that he loved the city, but he was comfortable there and knew his way around. He had left there to follow a lead on his missing sister, but it came up short, leaving him to come home empty handed. He had even ignored a strange voice from his tiara telling him to go to the Dawn Castle to follow what led him to another dead end. Maybe he should have gone.
As he entered the city, his hometown, he followed his usual path towards the small apartment where he lived, passing some burned out buildings. He remembered the fires, they were common in the city, but these ones happened close to home. He lived around the corner from them and had watched them burn down after the owners refused to pay some criminals offering protection. They were people outside of his family's control. They had worried the fires would spread and take their home away as well.
He glanced at them again, something about them catching his eye, taking a look at a group of people who looked as though they were entering one of the buildings. It wasn't strange to see people stay in the buildings, the homeless often took refuge where ever they could find, but these people didn't look homeless nor like they were from New Vegra. And they seemed to be trying to help get someone into the building.
"Need help?" he asked before he could stop himself, walking towards them. He nervously pulled on his hat, making sure it was firm on his head. He would not want it coming off in a fight, revealing the obvious sign he was the Hero of Ice. After all, it could be a ruse or a gimmick to get him to enter an empty warehouse to mug him, it had happened before. Luckily he was stronger at night. As ridiculous as the tiara was, the ice power did help. Though it did set his natural body temperature lower than most.
As Light just ignored her and ran over to Nick, Jenna frowned. One she was extremely pissed at her and two she absolutely wanted to punch her in the face. But her anger at the small girl was short lived. Scrambling to her feet Jenna ran over to the group, her staff clutched tightly in her hand. She watched in awe as Kris climbed on top of Nick.
Mouth open in shock Jenna watched everything that happened, wondering what exactly was going on. It was confusing and then only thing she could get out of it was that Light was healing there hurt friend. Then as Light sort of burst into light and shimmered away Jenna looked up to the sky with a small smile.
She couldn't believe the sacrifice Light had just committed. To give up your life for someone else was truly amazing. Sinking down to her knees Jenna looked at Rynn and Gavyn. "Well that was just...wow," she muttered and looked at Nick's face. Jenna couldn't help but feel relieved as he looked loads better. "You guys go get him inside, have Adam help you. I'll take first watch don't worry."
Rising to her feet Jenna glanced at Adam. "Can you help them move Nick into the shelter? I'll take first watch." Turning around she walked a few feet away and sat at the base of the tree. Sitting where she was she was hidden in the darkness of the branches, it was the perfect place to keep watch. There would be ample time for her to react to any attacks.
As she waited Jenna brought out her four daggers that were hidden on her body. Each dagger was shaped like her element, they looked like black lightning bolts. Taking out her special sharpener from her boot Jenna began sharpening each dagger carefully.
Hearing someone approach the group Jenna quickly put her daggers away. Standing up silently she gripped her staff tightly and stepped out from the tree. She placed her body in front of the group. "No I think were alright but thank you," she said a bit coldly. There was no way Jenna wanted a stranger to help move Nick. All she wanted was this strange, but very handsome man to go away.
Jenna would protect them all with her life. There was no way she was letting this guy anywhere near them. Who knows who he was, he could be a la'Ronk spy or something. Jenna didn't want to chance him finding out they were heroes. She pushed her hair out of her face, which caused her earrings to sway and the moon made them shine in the darkness.
Cole was slightly surprised as a girl appeared from the nearby tree, stopping him from approaching the rest of the group. His focus had been on the group, more than the tree, so she caught him a bit off guard. He took a step back, raising his hands up, trying to show he hadn't meant any harm. At least it wasn't some sort of set up. "Alrighty then, just offering some help," he replied calmly, even offering a friendly smile. He didn't want to start a fight.
He knew that he should leave, go back to his home, only a few blocks away, and leave this group alone. It seemed like they might be trouble, but there was something that was making him want to stay with them. Could they be the other heroes? He knew there were others with powers like his, but he thought that they'd be at Dawn Castle. That's when he noticed the girl's earrings in the moonlight. Could they be? "Nah, impossible...they're supposed to be at Dawn Castle, not that it really concerns me..." he said under his breath as he looked at her earrings, unable to take his eyes off them.
The thought of them being the other heroes alone, made him unconsciously want to feel his own item. Trying to disguise what he was doing, he scratched at his hat, not wanting to take it off. As much as he tried to think that he didn't want to be a part of their group, he knew that his item would try to draw him to them.
((dammit post got deleted curses it was so good and so long boo.))
After cleaning up Nick's drool and managing to get him inside with the assistance of her companions, Rynn grabbed some of the old wood from nearby and lit a fire, making sure Nick and the other's wouldn't freeze that night. Rynn herself was quite energized and likely wouldn't sleep for a while yet, and so she decided to take Jenna some heat and keep her company for a while.
Rynn had neglected to hear the voices outside and so she assumed Jenna was the only one outside the burnt out doorway. Grabbing a torch in one hand, Rynn absentmindedly created a fireball to light said torch with as she crossed the threshhold. The minute she raised her emerald eyes, however, Rynn saw the stranger and realized that there was no way he could have missed her creating the fire. "Well shit." she said simply, continuing to walk over to Jenna and hand her the torch.
"Thought you could use a little light, warmth and company." Rynn said before turning her attention to the stranger. She supposed it was time to address him and find out if he was friend or foe (not that she was concerned, he didn't look all that threatening and four elemental heroes could easily handle one man).
"To whom do we owe the pleasure of this visit?" Rynn said, smiling sweetly, her velvet voice really quite unthreatening. Of course the fact that the smile soon became a grin and that the entire time Rynn had been playing with a small bit of fire between her fingers was a bit disconcerting. But she wanted the man to know that if he so desired to aggress upon them, he would surely lose.
[[Another short post - I'm trying not to skip over people.]]
Whimpering the moment Rynn left his side (he really didn't know she left, he figured she moved), the male latched himself onto the next closest person (still believes it is Rynn). Had he been paying attention and completely conscious, the male would have realized that Adam was his victim. Clinging to him much like a newborn clings to its mother, he cooed lightly into Adam's stomach.
Perhaps he was in a dream or he was, quite literally, out of his mind because the next action that came from Nick was something he would soon regret. Sitting up, his black hair flopped into his face. A quick kiss was placed on Adam's pale cheeks (although, they are probably flaming red now) before he retreated back to his resting position.
"Don't you worry. You and I... we... one day... us... we shall be married."
[[I couldn't help myself. It had to be done!]]
Gavyn took it upon herself to be the first to search the inside of the abandoned building. As she passed the threshold of the doorway her nostrils flared, filled with the smell of mold and ash. Looking around, it looked like it was at one time a bookstore. The main floor they walked into was filled with bookshelves, most of the books clearly ruined by a fire, but put in even worse condition by being doused in water as well. It was a sad sight to say the least, especially for someone like Gavyn who took so kindly to books. Lucky enough for them, this fire must have been long ago because the couches and chairs that were scattered amongst the room were dry. A long couch cloaked with a white sheet stretched against the wall on their left and she quickly went over and pulled it off, revealing a soft maroon material underneath it.
She placed the cup of medicine on a wobbly table beside the sofa and looked over her shoulder, hearing Nicks murmuring voice as it was carried into the building by Adam. Just as she turned her gaze toward them she saw the sleeping boy plant a kiss on Adams cheek. It was quite a sight, and due to Nicks slightly effeminate appearance (especially when sleeping) and the way Adam was carrying him, it looked a lot like a Prince and his bride. A faint blush passed over her cheeks, trying not to giggle but it couldn’t help but escape her lips. Quickly turning back trying to pretend like she didn’t see anything she pointed to the couch, “This is probably the best we can do right now for him.”
Clearing her throat she turned and rubbed her neck, “I’m going to go see what is upstairs for now, see if there is anything useful here.” If they were going to stay the night, she wanted to look in every nook and cranny of the building to assure nobody was already inside it. This city seemed like the place that had a lot of squatters laying about. There was a staircase at the far end of the room on the right, approaching it she looked up at the next floor, which was pitch black. Well there was no way she was going up there without any source of light. With that thought, Gavyn didn’t even have to ask, her ribbons began to glow shining a light blue hue around her body to guide her. Taking hold of the dusty railings she crept up the stairs slowly, the way the wood cracked and creaked below her made her nervous she would collapse right through, but luckily she made it to the top successfully.
Taking a breath she looked down the hall, thankfully this really was their lucky day. Not only was this place a business, but it was a family home as well. The owners must have lived in this apartment above, which wasn’t quite odd. To her left opened up to a very cramped kitchenette and small table and chairs. When her light shown in the direction of the room, rats scattered to their hide outs. It looked as though no fire damage was on the second floor, but the actual floors sturdiness was something of a concern. Slowly walking down the hall to her right she came to see a small bedroom connected to a bathroom. All the rooms were thankfully free of hobos or psychotics of the sort, sending a sigh of relief out the girls pale lips.
Stepping into the bathroom she looked around to test if things were possibly working inside, feeling around for a light switch, it didn’t work for a few moments until briefly it flicked on and off until a dim and unappealing light cast into the room, lighting up Gavyn in the mirror. Leaning forward she rubbed her hand on it, to make it easier to see her reflection. Leaning in close she dragged her dirty fingertips against her cheek to try and remove the dried blood, but it proved to be unsuccessful. The glimmer of a silver faucet shown behind her, catching her attention.
Her eyes lit up, perhaps maybe… just maybe she could push her luck and this place would have running water. Upon twisting the knob, she could hear the pipes begin to shake, but moments passed and still no water. Closing her eyes she took hold of the faucet and bit her lip, and the pipes began to rattle even harder, Gavyn was doing her best to break the seal inside until finally a faint pop could be heard and water burst into the tub. “Aha!” Extremely pleased with herself she let the merky water wash into the tub and drain out, as she swoosh her hand about the tub, loosening any dust or dirt inside it until the water ran clear.
It was true, she could make the best out of any situation. Going back to close the door she peered out the window in the bathroom looking down at Rynn and Jenna speaking to someone, she couldn’t see the strangers face but if the two strongest females were relaxed at his presence he couldn’t impose much of a threat. Going back to the tub she pulled the dress from her body, once finished disrobing she immersed herself in the hot water. Yes, she needed and desperately wanted to wash the blood and dirt from her body, especially the blood, but when the Heroine of Water immersed herself within water it was much like meditation for her.
Closing her eyes she leaned back, letting her head fall below the surface of the water, rubbing her hands over her face. The soothing silence that being underwater brought, cleared her mind, cleared her worries, and helped her center her power.
Raising one of her eyebrows Jenna watched the strangers actions. Realizing that he was staring at her earrings Jenna quickly hid them behind her hair. She stared hard at the man as he brought his hand up to scratch his head. Jenna had a very odd feeling, as if this man needed to be with them. That he was apart of there group. Is he a hero? She thought herself silently. But that couldn't be possible, they had all the heroes. In that moment Jenna realized that Li'ing was gone.
Then Rynn walked up to them and handed her a torch. She grabbed it with her empty hand. "Thank you it is getting a bit cold out here." Jenna watched Rynn play with the fire out of the corner of her eye. Now the man was going to know they were the heroes.
Clearing her throat softly Jenna glanced at the man once more. "What's under your hat?" She had this horrible feeling that something bad had happened. "You're a hero aren't you? Ice perhaps?" It was the hat and how he touched it after he saw her earrings that clued her in. Plus Li'ing had disappeared and if he had been a true hero he wouldn't have left. So Li'ing must have been a spy, gathering information on them.
Jenna made sure she was watching the mans face carefully as she waited for his reaction. It was going to be the first emotion that passed his face that would tell her if she was right. She was really good at reading the first emotions on someone's face.
Cole realized that he was staring at the girl's earrings a bit too obviously when she moved her hair out of his eye line. He was about to apologize for staring when another girl came out of the building. The second girl completely caught his attention as she proceeded to light a torch with a fireball that she conjured. He watched as she came over to them, thinking whether or not he should stay. Despite his instinct to flee, something else came over him to stay.
As she asked him who he was and what he was doing there, he merely shrugged and tried to look nonchalant. "No one of interest. Just a local passing through on his way home," he told the new girl, not liking the way she was twirling fire around her fingers. All the same, he couldn't help but to focus his power to his hands, icing them slightly.
He became nervous again as the first girl put things together. How did she know he was the Ice Hero? Was it that obvious, even with his hat. His mind raced as he tried to come up with some reason or excuse or lie for his behavior. "Yes," he said, finally, resigned to the fact that he could not come up with any sort of excuse.
"So, you must also be Heroes, or Heroines more aptly," he continued after a moments pause. "Which ones? Fire, obviously, but what about you, umm?" he asked, nodding to the girls in turn. "By the way, you can call me Cole."
[[Since Riku27 is having issues posting, he asked that I throw this up for him.]]
Adam was about to answer Light's question when she suddenly darted away, Adam was confused as to why she would do this. Adam turned and watched her run over to where Nick and the others were.
Adam wondered What is she doing? Isn't Nick already okay? Adam watched as Light placed herself on top of Nick and began to glow. Adam bolted up watching as the brave elemental began to fade away.
Adam gasped it was as if he was losing his sister all over again, but it was okay to him. He didn't know what was wrong with Nick but if Light was sacrificing herself it must be a damn good reason. He stood in awe of the immense power Light was producing in the final burst of Light Adam had to shut his eyes or be blinded by the Light.
When Adam re-opened his eyes Light was gone, the other elementals were just as shocked as he was there group was one less now. Rynn and Gavyn lifted Nick and carried him into an abandoned building. Adam was speechless and couldn't fully understand what just happened.
Jenna told Adam she'd take first watch, and then asked if he could help carry Nick inside. "I will in a second sorry there is something I have to do first." Adam walked over to the spot where Light had vanished. And knelt on the ground.
His hands glowed with the green aura mist as he touched the ground, a field of pure white flowers bloomed around the spot where Light vanished, a stump formed in the center of the small field. With his hands still glowing Adam carved This field is dedicated to the Hero of Light, who overcame the Darkness
Adam walked towards the shelter, he was tired from the events of the day and laid on the ground near Nick, and closed his eyes. When suddenly he was grabbed by someone he opened his eyes and saw Nick at his waist. Adam tried to remove the leech and was suddenly kissed upon his cheek by Nick. Adam's eyes widened and as soon as he was out of Nick's grasp he quickly backed away.
Adam walked outside and saw the stranger standing near Rynn and Jenna, he approached them all and overheard Jenna ask if the stranger was the hero of Ice. Adam was curious and wondered the same thing.
Patting Kyle on the shoulder, Jenny Lynn then wandered over to Teresa. Sliding down ever so gracefully, she rested her rump against the wooden floorboards of the majestic ship. Her face was still delightful and filled with awe as she rested her wore feet. Tugging off her boots, she wiggled her toes in the cool air. A small 'ah' even pursed her lips when her toes were freed from their boot prison.
A yawn escaped as did another one. Eyes heavy with sleep, the blonde leader rest her head against the side boards of the ship. The last image that was ingrained in her brain was that of a starry sky. Smile on her face, Jenny Lynn drifted into a light sleep. The light of the morning sun would cause her to stir when it eventually came time to rise. To her dismay, the arrival and Vesper would awaken her before the rising sun.
Needless to say, her mind played visions of her past and of a future she sought to make true. Nicholas, she dreamed with a smile, you shall be my husband.
It was the sound of murmuring voices that caused the male to stir. His eyes flickered for a minuscule amount of time. Adjusting to the blackness that surrounded him, Nick finally gained his eye sight and noticed not a soul was in sight. A light whimper trailed from his lips into the air. How do you like that, Rynn left me. She's probably off kissing Adam. Well, you know what, who needs them. I'm going to go explore this house. I don't hear and humping, so it's gotta be safe upstairs!
With his body still drained and weak, Nick discovered his inability to walk. Rather than quitting, he decided crawling would fit him just find. It was less strenuous on his worn body and it also allowed him to sneak up the eerie steps. For being of a delicate weight, it was still enough weight to cause a few creaks to echo. But with the wind howling about beyond the walls, no one would even pay him a bit of attention.
Groping at the darkness, he felt his way off the stairs. It was when he was on that level that he saw what appeared to be a dim light creeping out from under a door. Curiosity piqued his interest. Chin to the floor and belly low enough to the floor that it almost became a dust collector, his crimson eyes tried to make do with what he could see.
So it was a room, that much he knew. But he did not guess it could be the bathroom. He actually thought it might have been a bedroom. Had he actually been thinking and not stalking around like a hunting cat, he might have executed his next action a little better. In fact, he might have aborted the mission altogether. But, being a man on a mission, he didn't foresee the possibility that a woman might be naked beyond the wooden door.
"Rawr!" he said as the door swung open. Pouncing so that his hands were perched on the tub, he bared his teeth with closed eyes. When the sound of water tickled his ear, his eyes shot open. A red brush stroke of paint was drawn over his cheeks as he hesitantly looked up at the ceiling.
"I swear, I saw nothing," he stammered out while still focusing his attention on the ceiling.
At this point, his heart was racing and he was feeling a bit squeamish. Not the sick kind of nausea, but rather the nervous butterflies feeling. His breath was heavy and timely in an odd rhythm.
A few seconds had hardly passed and it had already felt like a lifetime. The silence, aside from the rippling water, overcame him as he feared her striking claws. Sure enough, barging in and scaring her would result in some sort of physical infliction. Although, with a bit of hope in mind, he wished that Gavyn would assist with cleaning him up. The idea of being blood-free sounded heavenly.
Even before the man admitted he was he hero of ice, Jenna knew. His face told her everything she needed to know and she just had this feeling, like he belonged. When Adam came over to them she gave him a brief smile.
"I'm lightning," she said simply. "It's nice to meet you Cole, I'm Jennavieve but I go by Jenna." They all needed to sit down and talk. Now that they were looking at the real hero of ice they needed to figure out who Li'ing was. He knew there names and who had what element. This was going to be disastrous.
Jenna let out a heavy sigh and shifted on her feet. "I think we need to all go inside and talk. Were going to be in big trouble if Li'ing was a spy for the la'Ronk. I'm so stupid!" She kicked a rock next to her toes in anger. Jenna couldn't believe she didn't realize that Li'ing was a spy. He was so closed off and didn't talk to them. Plus it took her forever to realize he was gone. All of that was unacceptable to her.
Kyle looked up when the men started shouting something about being boarded. He had to laugh.
Then Let them board. he thought, seeing the girl board. She had a la'Ronk badge. He saw one of the men reach for his weapon, "If you touch that blade, Jensen, I will personally shoot you down."
"You're not me capt'n!" Jensen said, hefting the huge ax at the girl. With only the slightest move of his hand, Kyle embedded a throwing knife in the man's shoulder, causing him to drop the ax. It didn't deter him, however from pick up a smaller knife with his good hand and lunging at the girl. Kyle tsked as the crossbow bolt burrowed into the man's side. The knive had been a warning, the bolt was a kill shot. If Teresa had seen more blood in her life, he would've jumped down and stabbed the man, but the crossbow bolt left a much smaller hole an a lot less blood.
"Anyone else who wants to attack this young woman, do so at your on risk." The crew all looked down at this. "Hello Madame la'Ronk." he said, walking over, "Now what are we forgetting again? I won't ask you how you know my name, but I would like to know yours." he said, as politely as he could. "Somebody clean this mess up and toss the body overboard... Don't want it smelling up the ship."
"But sir..." one of the men began, only to be cut off by Kyle.
"So you're offering to share a bed with Jensen tonight, Beiny?" he said, eyes cold and voice emotionless. When he saw the man's face pale he smirked. "Then I suggest you listen to your orders." he said with a snarl.
"Now, what were we saying?" He said turning back to the young woman.
Teresa woke up to the sound of fighting going on above her. Or at least she assumed it was fighting. It was banging and loud and kyle was shouting though she wasn't sure the words. Uncurling from the ball she has ended up she decided to go investigate. Her long hair which had been previously bound on top of her head had managed to come undone and hung in curls down her back almost reaching her waist. She ran towards the main deck of the ship just in time to hear kyle asking who someone was. and made it on to the deck in time to hear him threaten the other sailor. She was shocked. Not really at the fact kyle would threaten a man it seemed right up his alley, but that he had so much at one given time. She felt bad for the Beiny (she assumed this was the sailor being threatened, he was only voicing an opinion.) She also wondered who this Jensen was though she assumed he was another sailor, she had fallen asleep that night before she had learned anyone's name.
And then as all of that raced through her brain a mile a min, she noticed the dead body on the floor and the pretty la' Ronk girl standing at the other end of the deck of the ship. She recognized the family symbol on the girls badge. But not the girl herself. Biting the urge to panic about the dead body and start asking 50 billion questions that were going through her head, she put on her best noble la' Ronk face and curtsied to the other woman "Hello Miss Riddle, I recognize your family name from your badge, but i don't recognize you. Have you spent any time Kishmal? Also i really must insist you fully cooperate and answer any and all of Captain Gear's questions. First and for most, who are you? He seems quite willing to kill people tonight who displease him."
She nodded to Kyle in a silent apology for undermining his role as captain. However the stranger was clearly la' Ronk and for all his good traits Kyle was not and that meant socially this lady didn't have to tell him anything. Teresa knew nobles, and how to interact. And she was good at it. This girl was her equal in every way, the badge she wore at her hip noted it at every level, and while she was still to far away to read the first name, the family name and rank stood out clear as day. She hoped Kyle would follow along and ask questions and not shoot the girl. she had made the connection from the crossbow in his hand to the dead sailor. She had no illusions that he would hesitate to use it if he thought the situation demanded. And there really was no reason for killing anymore this could be solved with words. She moved forward to stand closer to the action or the aftermath, oh gods dead bodies smelled! She waited to see what would happen next.
((Short Post))
Adam looked at the new hero of Ice, still somewhat sad over finding out that Li'ing was apparently a la'Ronk spy. Adam listened to the Ice Hero introduce himself as Cole.
"Pleasure to meet you Cole my name is Adam Celt I'm the Earth Elementalist. Welcome to the Clan! I suggest we all head inside before anyone gets suspicious."
The peaceful silence that immersing yourself under water brought was something very tranquil. But that silence was broken suddenly, causing the bathing girl to shoot up out of the water rapidly, her eyes popping open as wide as they could. When she came face to face with the Hero of Darkness, she let out a loud yelp. “Ai~!!” Within seconds, instead of attempting to cover herself up with her hands she used some of the water from the tub to bring about a wall of water between them,
The water itself was not clear, and Gavyn’s silhouette was still visible, but the wall served as a screen that eased her severely embarrassed mind. Pulling her knees up to her chest she rest her hands back in the water, the wall continuing to stand between them. “You swear you didn’t see anything? You didn’t mean to sneak in here while I was bathing right? Because that wasn’t sneaky at all.” Her voice echoed amongst the ceramic tiles that walled the room, faint swishing of the water moving with her body accompanying her voice. How awful would it be that the first time a boy saw her naked body would be an accident!
Her heart was still racing, no pounding against her bare chest and her face would not seem to remove the powerful blush across her face. Her cheeks were so warm, she had a right to be embarrassed though. But Nick, in that second they stared face to face, was his face red as well? Then that must mean he had no intentions of committing such an offensive act of voyeurism. Taking a deep breath, she was relieved to come to that deduction, and felt like she was able to relax her shoulders again.
The steam and hot water was heating up her already flushed skin as she sat in the tub, awkwardly sitting in silence for a few moments before changing the subject entirely, not wanting to dwell on the past few unfortunate seconds. “You shouldn’t be up and about right now you know…” Looking through the wall of water she could see his silhouette by the doorway. “You need your rest, even if you feel alright right now, you will be even more worn out later if you don’t recover fully. Adam even made you a medicinal drink to help you in your recovery.” She couldn’t fight off a smile, but it did not show in her motherly words. It was nice to see that he was up, and acting as silly as ever, even if it did bring about an unfortunate and awkward situation.
Then the notion hit her mind, “Oh! You need to get washed up don’t you?” If that much blood and dirt stained the skin of the water maiden, than he must be far worse. “Well, I’m almost done. I really was dilly dallying, I tend to get swept away into the moment when I surround myself with the loving embrace of my element…” Snapping back to attention she went back to scrubbing off the dirt and blood from her skin. “Sorry, I’ll be out shortly.” She spoke happily, humming to herself while still being put at ease by the divider between them.
Still in shambles from intruding on Gavyn, he just knelt there with a blank expression on his face. The red blush still stained his cheeks, but his mind had wandered elsewhere. He was running rampant in his mind. Pissed at himself for his rudeness, Nick felt so ashamed. Everything he stood for, everything he said he wouldn't do, he just did. His world crashed around him. Eyes, losing their human touch, became dull and lifeless. Drained and filled with shame, his black framed eyes just remained attached to the last item of his focusing - the ceiling.
An endless pit of guilt rocked at his soul. A frown now hung on his face. When his eyes finally came-to, he saw a reflection that sent a shiver down his spine. A pair of red eyes were looking back at him. They seemed so... lonely. Searching for answers, Nick's eyes quivered when they turned up nothing. A ripple quaked the crimson color to a less luscious shade. Almost gray, the last remnants of red finally faded.
"I'm a monster," he whispered as his hand reached out to the glass before him. Caressing the smooth mirror, his eyes remained lifeless and emotionless. The look on his face even mimicked the lack of expression in his eyes. The only hint of color on his body was the dried crimson blood that was splashed onto him. His eyes, although they were without concern, traced every ounce of blood that decorated his pretty face.
New pools of blood splattered onto his skin when his fist made contact with the glass. Shattering and embedding itself into his knuckles, Nick banged his head into the wall. Kicking the door, he fumbled into the hallway.
Bleeding seemed to be the only way Nick could feel alive. The pain in his heart numbed his body and caused him feel unhuman. The sinful taste of of guilt still lingered on the tip of his tongue. His heart was still pounding and, now, his brows were sweating. His pace slowed and his vision was beginning to dwindle. As his eyes started fading, his heart, too, took a drastic dip. If skyrocketing was bad, halting to a weakened pulse had to be worse.
Body folding over itself, Nick's forehead made contact with the wooden floor beneath him. As his weight became concentrated in one area, the boards began to warp and buckle. Snapping under the pressure of his weight (being vacant for so long really wore the boards out), Nick fell through the floor. It was the booming thud that trembled the building that would alert the others of his stirring.
Thankfully, his fall was broken by a pile moldy hay. It wasn't good for him to breath in, but at least his fall didn't bring about his death.
Laying there in the hay, he stared up at the hole his body just created. Nick's eyes wavered before they fluttered back open. Life flickered before him. He could almost see the light at the end of the tunnel, but something was holding him back. Although the light was egging him on, hoping to consume him, Nick fought back the desire to give in. He had no interest in dying, not yet, at least or so he liked to believe.
A row of water came rolling down his cheeks. His past was poking at his brain. He could feel each of his demons rip at his flesh. The eyes of those around him seemed to eat him alive. He didn't mean to make them all feel that way. He never meant to bring them to their graves. It wasn't a game of wrong and right. It was the blindness that needed to be recognized. No one, not a single person, knew what toyed at the strings of his heart. Everyone just seemed to bat their eyes and believe that he was just a perverse man without a bit of compassion. Someone who was filled with deeply pitted hatred. They were foolish and wrong. Was no one able to see that it was because of them that he became such a soiled, foul man? Had someone shown him a bit of friendship, Nick might have turned out a better man. Perhaps even a gentleman.
Why. Why must I suffer. Why can't I just die. No matter what I do, I seem to fuck it up. Gavyn, I didn't mean to hurt you. I... I guess I just didn't want to be alone. I hate being alone. I hate it. Why does it always happen. Why does everyone just go. Why. Why can't they see that it brings tears to my eyes? Why do they think I don't need them. I need them more than they would ever need me. Just look at me. Without them, I just end up getting hurt. It's always been that way. Ever since the beginning, I've been this way. And then, when people finally decide to help me they end up dying. I can't keep doing this. I need to just... leave. As much as I don't want to be alone... maybe it's safer. I can't hurt anyone. If I'm alone then I don't need to worry about their feelings or hurting them. After all that I've become, I'm only one. I long to die. I'm still waiting for a love I'll never have.... All my dreams that I've laid to rest, they just taunt me. I'm just... one. I'm all... alone. I'm on my own here... no one left to... save me. Will I really... die... alone?
Is that really how you feel, Nick? Do you really think that lone wolf attitude of yours will bring peace to your friends? Do you really think love has vanished? Do you really think you'll die alone?
Jenny? What are you doing here? Why do you even care... you left me....
Stop being a whiny emo brat. Man up! Take responsibility for you actions. Moping around and expecting to be babied will get you no where in life. If you want to wallow in self pity, then do it, but don't expect anyone to like you.
Are you saying... people will like me if I stop... crying? If I stop... hurting?
Trust your friends. Put your faith in them. They will make the pain go away. You won't be alone and you might... find someone who will love who will love you for all eternity.
How? How can they.... How is such a fairy tale even possible for someone like me? Just look at me... I'm nothing.
Fine then. Rot away. Die. No one needs you. You're worthless. You just slow everyone down. No one wants you. You're just a burden. A pathetic excuse of a hero. You can't do anything right. Do us all a favor, kill yourself. Do it, do it now. Do it so we can move on. Use that sword and plunge it through your heart. End it. End your life. You want to die, so just do it. Admit it, you've been seeking death since the day I left. Ever since the day your brother died. Ever since you were born.
Jenny... how can you say that... did I really mean nothing to you. Do I really mean nothing to the world. Why was I picked to be a hero then? Was it not my... destiny? It has to be, why else would I be here. Why else would I be taking these guys to see Devyn. If I wasn't to be here right now, I'd have been killed before reaching Dawn Castle. You're wrong. You're wrong Jenny, I am not worthless. I'm needed. I will be... I hope. No, I know. I know I will be needed because I will be the only one to... defeat you. I won't let my friends fall to your blade. I must live. I have to make it so that our blades shall clash. I will not allow you to be the one to kill them. I must protect them. I won't let their lives be wasted on me. It's time I start acting like the man I want to be. It's time I start to fight for what I believe in. I won't let you or anyone else come between me and my destiny. And I won't let you hurt my fr-f-friends.
"I'm fine," he said rolling over onto his knees. Pushing himself up, he refused any help that was offered and crawled over to the wall beside him. Resting his head on the wall, his eyes darted to the outside sky. His view of the stars brought a smile to his face. "Everyone," he bit his lip "I'm sorry. I won't delay us any more. I'll be less... reckless from here on out." His deep crimson eyes flickered with a flame of hope. The courage he needed to press on was fueled by his desire to protect his friends. Making a promise to himself, Nick turned to the group and smiled. "I'm Nicholas A. Fusion. The whiny, emo, prick of Darkness. If you dare hit on Rynn, I'll send you to the depths of hell 'cause I already called dibs on her." Winking at her, Nick crossed his arms behind his head and laughed. From here on out, he would be a different man.
Another smirk crossed the woman's lips as Cole did everything but flat out say he was the real Ice. She couldn't honestly say that she'd predicted it, because she hadn't but it certainly hadn't surprised her when she'd found out. But, being in the position she was in, Rynn didn't have the luxury of allowing a freak out over what information he'd gleaned from them.
"Jenna don't be hard on yourself for not noticing, none of us did. He had a reason for doing what he did, and chances are high that he was a La'Ronk, but we'll deal with that when the time comes." She turned her attention back to Cole, smiling at him. "I haven't exactly been discreet about my part, as you saw me coming out I'm sure you noticed that I am fire. But my name is Rynn." She sat in quiet as the other introductions were handled, and then she heard a nice loud crash from inside the house.
"Excuse me Cole, I must handle whatever emergency just happened in there." with an exasperated smile, Rynn bolted inside to find Nick lying on the floor and a nice large hole above his head. With a whistle and a smirk, Rynn turned her green eyes upon Nick "Quite a fall you had there. You alright?" Rynn offered him help but he brushed it off, and with a sigh she followed him outside, a knowing grin still on her lips.
At Nicks introduction, Rynn started laughing and placed her hand on his shoulder "Well I guess that's one way to say hi. And while I thank you for the compliment, since when do you have ownership of me?" she chuckled at Nick, good-naturedly making fun of him. The pretty fire heroine was just thankful that Nick had come out alright.
"I figured with your dogs here you could handle it yourself, but Jensen has been annoying the entire voyage. And I needed to shoot something. The kill shot was a total accident." he lied. No need to make himself seem too bad ass. He noticed she hadn't answered his question but didn't particularly care. It wasn't important anyway. He smirked at her introduction and politely nodded to her curtesy, not that he thought it was directed at him.. He knew better. La'Ronk only bowed to La'Ronk. "So I presume you will be joining us on our grand voyage huh?"
A smile slid onto his face as he looked up at Rynn. "I thought it was appropriate. And I believe you already know the answer to your question. Despite being surrounded by a mob of heroes, you're usually the first to rush to my side. I suppose it could be a motherly habit, but I think we both know it's more than that. Besides, I can't call dibs on Jenna or Gavyn. Gavyn's too pure for me and Jenna tries to hit me with lightning. Well, I guess I could call dibs on someone else... yes, I shall do that. It'll be a precaution. Adam, I call dibs on you."
A deep exhale came from his direction before his eyes closed. "Now I know you all want to power through the night, but can we all please get some sleep. We'll need our strength if we're going to look for my friend Devyn. Besides, I have a bad feeling that he'll inform us we need to travel to my homeland in search of a book. I would have brought it with me but I... I seemed to have misplaced it."
As his friends started to yawn, Nick, too, let out a nice yawn. Flopping onto his side, he laid his head down on his previously injured arm. His slender frame just made a pretty pathetic wall-like structure. The shoulder area down to his hips was definitely the height point on his body, with his feet and arms coming in last.
Bending his body some, he almost formed a very rigid 's' like shape with his body. His breathing had slowed and he wasn't fidgeting about like the average person would. Where he laid was pretty much where he would awaken when the sun would kiss his eyelids in about six hours. A sense of peace and tranquility pulsed through his veins as Nick drifted into a light sleep. With the shadows dancing around him, the male knew the group wouldn't be completely vulnerable as he could feel an enemy move in, should one decide to attack.
Adam laughed upon hearing Nick introduce himself to Cole "I'm glad to see you finally accepted who you truly are!" patting Nick on the back as he said this. Adam felt bad that Jenna was being so hard on herself about Li'ing, no one could've been able to tell if he was a la'Ronk he hid it extremely well.
Adam walked over to Jenna and placed his hand on her shoulder "Rynn is right no one could've known he was a spy for the la'Ronk except the la'Ronk, or other spies. Don't be hard on yourself Jenna."
Whilst comforting Jenna Adam overheard Nick claiming 'Dibs' on him, Adam turned towards Nick with a confused expression. "See that tree Nick?" Pointing to the tree he had created earlier "I would rather fuck that than you. I'm sorry but no...never going to happen."
Adam walked over to Cole laughing at what Cole probably was thinking of the heroes so far "We have quite the different personalities each of us, but we all share a common goal. But I must reiterate again that we are all out in the open and probably should move to a safer location."
Grumbling under this breath at Adam's noisy interactions, the sat upright. Within the ten minutes he had dozed off he had managed to get bed hair. Even though it was usually a mess, it was even more so now. There were parts that were matted to his head and then there were pieces that tipped out to the sides. His fringe ended up crossing into an "x" between his brows, which caused him to send a puff of air up his nose. Lifting, it hovered there for a moment, but soon flopped back down to mask his eyes.
"I'm a bit disappointed that you would rather fuck a tree than me, but to each is their own. It's a bit too kinky for me, but, hey, you're the Earth Hero." He waved his hand in a limp manner before the placed both arms before his crotch. His legs crossed around his arms, which caused his back to arch some. Looking down, a yelp-like yawn escaped before his eyes looked up to the group. A nice dark ring covered his lower lids, indicating he was exhausted.
"Listen, we can either shut up and sleep for a bit, or we can fuck the whole idea and just wander about without rest, food, and water. I, for one, don't want to go head on head with a la'Ronk without a wink of sleep. So why don't you just shut up and sit down. If you so chose to leave, then leave. I can't do much without my beauty sleep, so, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to continue my napping."
Flopping over so that his body was now on the opposite side it previously was on, he looked up at Cole. "So you're the true Hero of Ice? How exciting. Not. I hope you're just as quiet as the fake Ice Hero." He really didn't like the idea of knowing that Li'ing wasn't a real hero and, like his comrades were assuming, he figured he was a la'Ronk spy. However, Nick didn't want to jump to those conclusions yet. "Stop whining about Li'ing. So what if he was a traitor. We will crush the la'Ronk no matter what. If they want to get some dirt on us, I say let them! It just proves that we've got the upper-hand."
His crimson eyes lifted and stared at Rynn. Without saying a word, he hoped the woman would side with him and join him in a little slumber party. Although, Nick had a sinking feeling that she would side with Adam. For some odd reason, a level of jealous pulsed through his body. He couldn't help but dislike Adam (and even Cole) for there was a chance he could steal his woman. Yes, his woman. Even if Rynn wanted nothing to do with Nick, the black-haired Hero of Darkness had made up his mind that Rynn would be the one he wanted. Not to mate, per say, but to protect and confide in. He fought for the people, but he many fought so that Rynn could be a free woman. You could even say he was fighting for Gavyn, as he felt bad for intruding on her.
Cole watched the interactions of the other heroes. They were certainly an odd bunch, then again it was late and they were probably tired from the day. Cole was the type to get the benefit of the doubt, especially if he didn't know them. "Hey, nice to meet you all," nodding at the group as a whole.
"We should move inside. This city is very dangerous at night," he told them, motioning towards the abandoned building they were staying in. Growing up there, he knew the dangers and knew that the city would not be quiet as it had been in the short term. He wanted them to get out of there before anything big happened.
He looked at the Hero of Darkness and could tell he might be trouble later on, especially as protective as he seemed, more concerning the girls, but Cole could deal with that.
"Crushing the la'Ronk...hmm, I could go with that," he repeated, nodding, thinking of his sister. Maybe going with them could achieve multiple things at once.
He looked over at Jenna, seeing how poorly she felt about not seeing that the other 'Hero of Ice' was a fake. He went over to her and leaned down towards her. "Don't worry about not seeing it. It's as much my fault, I didn't show up at Dawn Castle," he told her, hoping to make her feel better.
"I may find you attractive and amusing" Rynn said, grinning as she walked up very close to Nick, her lips only a breath's distance from his face "But that does not mean you have ownership of me. I simply like to take care of own..." One more sharp toothed grin and Rynn moved away from him, chuckling at Adam's comment.
"That tree is fairly attractive, I must say Adam." Rynn smirked, casting her sidelong glance between Adam and Nick, waiting for the quick retribution of a playful punch from one to the other. But it never came, and Nick made a suggestion to which Rynn was quite willing to agree with. Sleep was a very very good idea for all of them- they'd had a long day and an emotionally draining night. Bidding the others goodnight, Rynn walked inside to where Nick was sleep and laid out her bedroll, placing it a few feet away from Nick. Covering herself with her cloak, Rynn curled up and did her best to fall asleep.
(short post yay! -_- )
Finally getting the last bits of dirt and blood off of her skin, Gavyn stood up and let the water drip off her body, wringing her darkened curly locks dry she reached for her satchel on the floor that had another dress similar to the crème colored one she had gotten dirty but it was light blue. “Okay Nick, I’m all do--” Her sentence was cut off by the sudden crash in the room.
Quickly pulling the long and wavy dress over her head and down her body she let the partition of water fall back into the tub and jumped out, quickly stepping back to avoid cutting the bases of her feet. Worried at how quickly he had become upset she slipped on her sandals to follow him but instead heard nothing more than a loud snap and thud as his body collided with the floor below them. “Nick!” Rushing over, the girl was careful to not get too close to the hole in the floor where the boards had clearly given way under his pressure and looked through at the now newly dust covered boy.
He was quick to roll himself up out of the bed of hay he landed in and assure the others that he was alright, but the truth in that statement was a little more than questionable. Gavyn couldn’t help but worry about the state of his mind, the “Prince of Darkness” really was fragile in a lot of ways… but he most likely would never admit it. A smile came to her lips as he spoke of Rynn, in all honesty he probably wouldn’t still be holding on if it wasn’t for her. She was his guardian in a lot of ways, much more than just flirtatious encounters.
Looking around, the Water Heroine was stuck. She either had to jump down into the hay or attempt to jump across the large hole in the floor to make it to the stairs… But with the force of the jump would most likely crash through as well. Pressing her lips together she really didn’t like the idea too much, but it looked less painful and realistic than the leap. Closing her eyes she jumped, pulling her legs up so her butt hit the pile of hay in a dusty “poof”.
“Oof~!” Scuffling to her feet she patted down her dress and walked off, pleased that she did it in a graceful manner. Although she hoped that this would be the last bit of energy she had to exert for the night. Even though she had that rejuvenating bath, all that healing had really sucked the pep and energy out of her. But it didn’t look like the excitement would end anytime soon. Overhearing on the other heroes she was brought up to speed on the fact the previous Ice Hero (Who she never actually met in the first place.) was actually a fake, and a spy for the la’Ronk. As if that wasn’t enough, the real Ice Hero was making his introduction as well.
It really wasn’t that big of an issue presently, Gavyn just had that bloated brain feeling she often got when trying to study late at night. At least he was polite, and spoke more than the previous member of their party. When she wasn’t acting so lightheaded she would attempt to actually greet him more personally like she has with the others. As for right now, she offered him a wave and a smile.
Seeing as Rynn decided to go along with Nicks suggestion of finally taking a rest she gasped a sigh of relief. “Thank goodness… I feel like I’m gonna collapse.” Her words were even lighter than usual as she glanced around the room. There was a large armchair that looked quite comfortable at the moment, (even if it was run down and dirty, anything would look inviting right now.) so with that she made her way over to it and slung her legs over one arm and slunk her body down so her head rested on the other arm. “Mm.. “, she moaned happily as her body melded to the contours of the lumpy seat, her mouth letting out a great big yawn. Letting her head fall to the side, the long damp strands of her hair fell over the side of her face as she slowly slipped into a peaceful state of rest in attempt to rejuvenate her body.
Growling, the woman's eyes shot open. Bounding onto her heels, she toppled into Kyle before shaking a fit at Kyna. Snarl still on her face, the blonde flicked her hair from her eyes before a smile parted her face.
"Tch, you just want to wreck havoc on the world, Kyna. Don't lie. You enjoy the thought of squashing the little heroes."
Kissing her teeth, she walked over to the two creatures that accompanied Kyna. "Why hello, sweeties. Jenny has some treats for you, yes!" Pulling a piece of jerky from her pocket, she dangled it before their dog-like noses. As the scent of the meat distracted them, Jenny ran her fingers through their fur. It was coarse, but in a soothing sort of way. Smile coming back onto her face, she twisted her head up to look at Kyle. The moonlight in her eyes caused them to shine and shimmer a metallic blue color. Her face was masked with a great many shadows, but the bright light from above helped to light her face up so that her expressions could be read.
A yawn escaped from her smiling lips, which caused the woman to bend at her hips. Stretching, she laid a pair of blue eyes on Teresa. "Teresa, I would like you to keep your eyes on this woman. She's of the same class as you, but, like yourself, she sought out the life of adventure. You might be able to learn a thing or two from Kyna."
Exchanging a grin for one of Kyna's, Jenny walked forward to embrace the woman. You could say they were friends, but that wouldn't be all that accurate. They had a history, but it was a little more complicated than some. There was a time where the two ran about the streets of Kittmund causing chaos, but that week of terror was short lived. Jenny was engaged to the Prince and it seemed to put a damper on their friendship. Having known each other for a small amount of time, Jenny couldn't help but wonder what their friendship would be like had she not been swept into the Mon la'Ronk lifestyle.
"We should be arriving at the port within the next few hours. Until then, perhaps we can shut our eyes. We'll be able to sleep more when we make it to Nick's house. I'm assuming he'll be a wonderful host, so he should grant us a pleasant stay."
Folding her hands behind her head, Jenny looked up at the moon. "She's beautiful tonight," she whispered under her breath. Eyes closing, she could almost hear the faint voice of a man. Yes, you are beautiful. The words seemed so surreal. For so long, Jenny had prayed to hear those words come from Nick's mouth, but the day that would have happened, she was swept away to the world of the la'Ronk.
There was warmth before him. Shuddering due to the new-found heat that entered his skin, Nick sniffled. His mind toyed with the desire to inch away. Being from a cold nation, Nick often found the cool air to be peaceful and soothing, but there was something about this warmth that drew him near. Like a bug is attracted to the light, Nick was attracted to this field of warmth.
Not daring to open his eyes, as he feared his dream would explode with a rather unwanted ending, Nick moved toward the heat. He hadn't realized it was coming from Rynn until the woman's face popped into his dream. Her eyes were looking into his own as he watched their intense stare. That grin of hers then swept onto her face, which brought a grin to his own.
Peace surrounded him. It had been a while since he had last had a calm dream. For the past few years, Nick had endless nightmares. They were usually a continuation of previous nightmares. Nightmares from his past were laced together with his present nightmares, creating a terrible story that played vividly in his mind.
It was then when Nick's nose nose found the bridge of Rynn's neck. For a moment, his breath just shot down her neck, caressing her shoulders with his delicious aroma. As the time passed, Nick could feel her warmth pour into his own body. Warming his core from the center out, a smile dotted the sleeping male's face.
Looking more peaceful now than ever, Nick's arms wrapped their way around Rynn's body. With her shoulders rested against his chest, he was sure the woman could feel his heartbeat in her back. It was a little faster than he liked, but it wasn't a bad thing. Rynn was more than aware of the fact that Nick had taken a liking to her and he saw no harm in showing her this.
Nose nestled beside her ear, the black haired male slid his other hand (the one against the floor) between the little gap between her neck and the floor. Once it was through to the other side, he tugged his arm up and rested it on her bosom. The other arm, the one that wasn't pinned beneath her neck, was rested respectfully on her hip.
Smile still on his face, he whispered lightly to her. "I can go back to my corner, if that would please you. But, if it's all right, I would prefer to stay right here. I like it here." Trying his hardest not to tickle her ear with his lips, Nick closed them and kept them still for a few minutes. When the pursed, he let lose a small sentence. "By the way, thank you for saving my life." With that heavy burden off his chest, Nick went back to his dreaming. As much as he liked the thought of having a date with Rynn (that's what his dream away about), he much preferred the back that he was cuddled up beside her as that was reality and not some little desire his mind wished to create.
A small stroking motion caressed his hips before Nick retired his affection. He had other things he had to worry about. Focusing on Rynn would mean he wasn't focused on the shadows outside. Granted, having her nearby did wake him up some, but it was more of a distraction than a good thing. Nonetheless, Nick welcomed the warmth and the happiness Rynn brought into his life. For that, he was more than grateful.
Adam peered over at Nick cuddling up to Rynn "D'awwww!" Adam said, sarcasm oozing off of the statement. "You know when he's curled into a ball like this it just makes you think he's not emo! To bad..." Adam couldn't help but chuckle to himself after saying this.
Upon seeing Gavyn heading into the house to sleep Adam spoke up "Gavyn has the right idea, we all need rest so let's all sleep. I'll take watch in my tree...I'm going to name her Martha. I'll take watch in Martha!" Adam swooped up into the tree a took place in the seat he had made earlier and readied himself for a long night of watch.
She felt a figure move closer to her, a hand wrap around her and a chest come to rest against her back. Though Rynn was nearly asleep, she was awake enough to know who it was and what was happening, and this night, Rynn decided to allow it, to give in to what she actually wanted to do in that moment and feel the soft comfort of another person beside her as she slept. Very few things could replace the feeling of having someone hold you as you slept, having the irreplaceable warmth of another body lying next to you. The quiet concern and subdued care that it signaled was something that comforted a part of Rynn buried deeply beneath layers of bravado, courage, and flame.
As she felt Nick's body wrap around her, Rynn nestled herself against his chest, her back touching his wherever it could. She curled up more tightly, allowing the circle of his arms to hold her more easily. As his hand found its way to her chest, Rynn moved it ever so gently to a more appropriate spot, giving him the slightest of momentary burns so he'd know she'd figured out what he'd been trying to do. His cuddling was very welcome, but Rynn couldn't allow him too much freedom too fast. A smirk crossed her lips, however, and it was all meant well. She allowed his hand to remain on her hip, not minding that at all.
"I thank you for your compliment Nick, but it took many people to save you, I am not the only one who contributed." she whispered softly, so that only he could hear her "and feel free to stay here as long as you like" she interlaced her fingers with the hand that she'd removed from her chest "I like your company just as much as you like mine, and even though I may create physical warmth, there's a different type of warmth that comes of being close to someone you care about." Rynn's voice was still a low whisper, it was not loud enough for it to even be noticed that she was speaking by anyone but someone in her immediate area, and the only person in that area was Nick. And Rynn was thankful for that, she could only show so much tenderness at this point. They needed her strength and they needed her authority. But for this night, she could be tender.
"Adam if you're jealous I'm sure someone would cuddle with you..." Rynn said with a quiet chuckle, hearing Adam's highly sarcastic comment. She knew that he meant it in good humor, but it also reminded her of something she didn't want to face at the moment- in the morning to real world would come back. Rynn didn't want to face it, not yet, she didn't want to remember that so many had died and that they were responsible for many more, but she had too. Rynn could never forget the ones that she'd lost, whose deaths she'd caused. She couldn't forget Adam's sisters or Nick's brothers or the families of the others. The mission had to be done, and no matter how much Rynn wanted to allow her emotions to overtake her and to start a fiery passionate romance, she knew that there was something more important to be done. But those thoughts were for the morning, and this night- this night, Rynn could indulge in something other than hate fueled fire. She could indulge in a softer glow.
Teresa decided there was something Kyna wasn't telling, but Kyle wasn't asking and Jenny Lynn knew the girl so she decided it wasn't worth pressing it right now. And besides her only advantage had been a slightly higher social rank which if she used again would completely undermine Kyle's authority and probably anger Jenny, two things she really did want to avoid. Especially since Jenny said she could learn from this Kyna. And she did want to learn, all of this was new to her and much harder to navigate then the endless politics and court games that had ruled her life previously. The rules were different and she needed to learn them all. She turned towards the new girl " its a pleasure to meet you Kyna, I'm Teresa Relline, only daughter of Senator James Relline."
She smiled she wasn't sure if she liked the newest addition to their group but that wasn't a reason to not be friendly. She remembered the lessons her mother had drilled into her head when she was as young as five "Smile at anyone you meet, its easier to be a friend then an enemy. And on top of that a smile shows you're confident and not frightened, If you act as if you are not frightened or nervous no one can take advantage of it. Confidence is a shield against those who wish to make you a pawn in their own games. If they want you on their side they must work much harder now. She had thought some of the advice was stupid over confidence could get you killed, but her mother was right on most accounts, if you are nervous and acted weak everyone was stronger then you and able to control you, and back home that meant your downfall.
((SO sorry I've been gone! Hopefully I got everything..lol))
Hearing Rynn tell her not to be hard on herself Jenna looked over to her. It was easy enough to say but hard to do. Mistakes on the streets were not ok, you usually died or got into some kind of trouble. After she left her parents she quickly learned to not make mistakes. But she nodded anyways and agreed with there leader. She wasn't the only one that made the mistake.
Then when she heard the loud crash Jenna's eyes went wild, scanning the area for any danger. Her hands clenched tighter around the torch and her staff, until she realized it was just Nick. Letting out a heavy sigh she shook her head. She listened as Nick told them to get to sleep. Jenna didn't even know if she could fall asleep. When Adam walked over to her and rested his hand on her shoulder, Jenna gave him a smile. He was the only guy shorter than her so she didn't have to look up like usual. "Thanks Adam," she said as he walked away.
As Cole started walking towards her Jenna watched him carefully. When he leaned down closer to her she couldn't help but study his extremely handsome face. After hearing his words she smiled up to him softly. "You shouldn't blame yourself either. I'm beginning to realize it's none of our fault. But thank you, you made me feel better." Leaning up Jenna placed a kiss on his cheek then stepped back with a smile.
Tossing her torch on the ground Jenna quickly kicked dirt on it to snuff it out. Once she was sure it was out she pressed the button on her staff to shrink it and then placed it back in her boot. "Hey Adam if you get tired come wake me up and I'll swap you places. Please don't try and keep watch if your tired. You'll need to be some what rested for tomorrow," she called up to the earth man in the tree. Then glancing back at Cole she gave him another small smile. "Goodnight," she said then walked into the building. Jenna went all the way to a corner and sat down, resting her back against the wall. After wrapping her cloak around herself she pulled her hood up so she was completely covered. Her hand rested on one of her daggers.
Adam waited in Martha, seated peacefully with his legs crossed on a seat of intertwined branches. Made more comfortable with leaves he grew on the branches. When Jenna called up to Adam about watch Adam smiled.
"While I do thank you for offering I think I'll be fine watching tonight, I don't sleep much as it is so I should be fine."
Adam cracked his neck and began to watch in all direction ever vigilant, ready to alert his friends at the first sight of the la'Ronk.
"It's going to be a long night..."
Believe it or not, the night was rather peaceful. Only a few wild Vesporeon lurked in the shadows, but they paid no attention to the heroes. A few little creatures scurried about, but they were more than terrified of crossing paths with the heroes. As the night started to fade to an end, a creature called in the distance. It was a sign that morning was coming.
As the rays of light kissed the earth, the heroes would begin to stir. Although they were well rested, their minds would still be sore from the strain that was now forced upon them. Body rested, but still exhausted, they would finish their current mission - finding Nick's friend.
With the first day behind them, the heroes can awaken with a new sense of pride and hope. They are the heroes of the world and they made it through one day. Who knows what horrors await them, but there is one thing that is certain, they will stop at nothing to bring peace to the land. Have faith in them and they will win. I know I believe. Do you?
With night still playing a role in the delayed arrival, the crew was able to get a bit of shut eye before they would be awoken by the morning's rays. When they would finally come to, they would be hovering over the city of Vesper. Within no time, Teresa, Kyna, Jenny Lynn, and Kyle would be off the ship and being met with the lovely Garnette.
With the strongest la'Ronk assembling, it is only a matter of time before the heroes start running into trouble. What will happen? Well, my friends, I cannot tell you that for not even I know. All I do know is that trouble is a brewing and there is a storm on the horizon.
[[ All posts should now be moved to Vesper. You might want to reflect on the night's journey. If interested, you can talk about the city below them. ]]
Gavyn had already been awake for quite some time as the other heroes began to stir as rays of morning light peered through the slats of the boarded up windows.
Being one of the first to fall asleep, and because she slept so deeply it was expected she would be one of the firsts to awaken. It seemed that even after she had freshened herself up and blinked away what was last of her morning sleepiness the clan was still not quite fully mobile.
In order to pass time quietly she decided to examine what she could salvage of the burned up book store. Like she assumed last night, the majority of the books were severely damaged to the point she couldn't even open the bindings. But there was a section in the front corner that had a few rows that seemed to be untouched by the fire and only sprinkled by water.
Her eyes and fingers grazed the books bindings as she eyes for something that caught her eye, it wasn't long before she slipped a large black leather book from it's home. Taking a seat she opened up the book of fiction entitled Holy Rogues, smiling and pulling out a blueberry muffin from her satchel. It was an interesting read, taking place in a fictional world... told from the point of view of a pessimistic man who had just been told he was destined to save the world. But he would not journey alone, as Gavyn read on it was revealed the main character would have to seek out a band of misfits to help him on his quest.
A giggle escaped her, for she thought the main character was quite amusing yet oddly familiar...
Morning came too quickly for Cole, as it always did. He had fallen asleep quickly, once things had died down the night before. Faster than he would have thought with all that had happened. He would have never thought that he would have joined the heroes, despite being one.
The morning sun hit his face, waking him. Cole's first instinct was to roll over, which ended with him falling onto the floor from sleeping into a sitting position. That woke him quickly, maybe even a few others as well.
He looked around, trying to tell if he woke anyone. He could see Gavyn looking around the burned out building. He knew there was probably not much to be found, most of the buildings like this one had been pillaged long ago, but she might find something of use.
Cole thought about going to his apartment. It was not far away and he might be able to pick a few things up they might need. He had a decent amount of money stashed away there, which would be useful in getting anywhere.
Without saying anything, he slipped out of the building, heading towards his apartment, which he reached within minutes. Going inside, he grabbed a bag and started gathering the things they might need, money being an important thing. He took what all he wanted and needed and left, unsure if he'd ever see it again.
On his way back, he stopped at a beignet street vendor, getting enough food for everyone for breakfast. He didn't know when they'd get something decent to eat again. Holding onto the bag of food as he bit into one of the sweet pastry. "Hey guys, breakfast," he announced to the group, holding the bag out for people.