[IC] Shepards of Ivalice: The Wings of Ruin

[Leolycan]

Children of Ivalive

Outskirts of Dorter Trade City

The reason for traveling to this last bastion of hope is your own. However, when you begin to see the ruined and desolate village cresting the hillside, you begin to wonder what hope is left. Ever since the rifts began to appear and the massive black dragon cast his shadow over the land; you've been merely fighting to survive the chaos. Steeling your nerve, you and your party would begin making your way to the once familiar city, only to be greeted by the signs of corpses and bodies strewn across the ground. The sight itself is daunting, able to disturb even the most battle hardened of souls. As you draw closer, you make out what looks to be a shoddily fashioned gatehouse, blocking entry to the city. It's clear that this work had been completed in haste, and probably just to prolong whatever time the residence had left... Or at least that's what you thought, as an arrow plunged into the ground just a few feet away form your caravan.

"Hold!" A young voice shouts over the open field, his voice echoing in the silence. Those with superior vision could make out the image of a long haired man in a full set of green dyed leather standing alone atop the fortification. If you proceed further, another arrow -drastically closer to striking home- would land not far from your person, "I said hold!"

Once the caravan had settled, the gate house would open slowly as a small party of chocobo riders would make their to meet you. Stopping a few yards away, another voice would ring out, though this one much more seasoned, "Welcome to Dorter! Or so it was once. You stand before the Children of Ivalice, now. If you seek refuge, we will offer what shelter we can, but at the cost of your labor. If you refuse to work, I'm afraid I must turn you away."

A few short moments of deliberation later, the caravan submits to these terms and are escorted inside the city. Once beyond the gate, all manner of people; both foreign and familiar, trying to eke out a living through all manner of services within the makeshift walls of this city. Not shortly after you began traversing the city streets, a rather large cart- it's contents hidden by a secured tarp- makes it's way past you and further into the city. If you should stop and ask, "Bodies. We're set to burn them, so they cannot rise again. Many more are becoming undead since the 'Beast' appeared, and we cannot risk them aiding our assailants."

Days later, seeing you survive few assaults and make whatever living you can within Dorter, another caravan has arrived at your gates. Though that fact in it's self is not odd, they claim to hail from a country that you've never heard of. Ylisse.

Shepards of Ylisse

Outskirts of Dorter Trade City

Ever since your departure from your homeland, your caravan has been assailed by numerous 'Risen' and what appeared to be reanimated corpses. Though the fighting has been difficult, Robin's strategic prowess has kept casualties to a minimum and has made significant progress in your advance. Though the land appears to be in ruin, you've managed to save a few of the native people and placed them under your care. It soon became obvious how different this world was from your own. Though this area seemed to home to a vast human population, odd new races you've never encountered soon took refuge in your camps.

Your journey has continued now for several days, every day marred by combat and loses. However, when questions began to abound, Robin halted the company, "We make for the coast! If we can cut the fronts we have to cover in half, we'll be better able to defend ourselves and begin reclaiming this land from Grima! I know it's difficult to see your friends fall as they have, but they knew the potential cost! Don't waste the precious time they've given us!" As if summoned by his words, a cavalier from the front rode in at great haste.

"Lord Strategist, we've spotted a settlement not far from here! They seem to have been able to hold a coastal city and fashion it into a garrison! We attempted to hail them, but were met with arrows!" the horseman added, though he and his mount showed no sign of injury.

"I'm sure they're just fearful. It's possible they think us brigands and bandits. I'll go and speak with them myself." Robin replied, signaling the horseman to follow. Some time later, the horseman returned and ushered the caravan onwards. Once the city came into view, you could tell that this bastion was merely a temporary solution, what with the makeshift gatehouse and turrets. Still, the gates were now opened to you, and you wasted no time entering the city. It was then that you notice Robin riding off. When questioning one of the guards, they stated it was to meet with the commander of the garrison. You can't help but feel the eyes of city upon you and your allies. Such a strange place, this Ivalice.

[Lugia]

Three days of travel didn't seem like much at first, but those days never seemed to pass, not only due to the horrendously understocked food supply, but because we had to fight every step of the way. We were nearly running out of food, and forced to eat whatever we could find by the time a city finally came into my sights. "Erion... I think we've finally made it. Dorter... I knew it wouldn't fall so easily. I knew good old Dorter could withstand these conditions. Though, if I had known it would be reduced to such a state, I would have gotten us more supplies," I say to my friend who has been traveling with me ever since I was kicked out of the nobles. Erion the moogle who was a chocobo knight, and his avian companion, Boco seemed practically drained from the adventure, but, it was finally at an end... or, at least a pit stop. With almost renewed energy, I sprint towards the city, only to almost run right into an arrow shot at me from the walls. The archer was, and I could smell her from here, a viera, and she had several human, gria, and other viera companions, all of whom were probably great archers. "Men and women of Dorter, I mean you no harm!" I shout to the archers, and they appear to have heard me, as someone shouted "Hold!" afterwards. I thought I was in the clear, then, so I continue forwards, only to have another arrow shot at me... this one was much closer than the last one, and honestly it made me fear for my life. I hear another shout from the man in charge "I said hold!" and tried my luck at getting even closer to the city. Thankfully, this time, I actually managed to get to the gates. I gesture for Erion to follow, as it was safe, now, and the gates open to reveal a few chocobo riders, all human, oddly, and another who wasn't on a chocobo.

The one without a mount welcomed me to Dorter, and even commented on its state of affairs. He then offered me a place to stay, with the Children of Ivalice, however, I responded with "I'm sorry, sir, but I'm a wanderer, I don't plan on staying here long... though, I will help with as much as I can, I'm still a mage, so I probably won't be able to do too much physical labor. My friend, however, can help bring in more chocobos, as he seems to have a way with the birds... but, as I've said, we don't plan on staying too long. I do thank you, however, for the shelter," the man seemed to almost ignore me as we were passed by a cart with an odd tarp over it. Considering what I've seen thus far, I almost shivered as I asked "Wh-what could possibly be under that tarp?" the man answered simply "Bodies. We're set to burn them so they cannot rise again. Many more are becoming undead since the 'Beast' appeared, and we cannot risk them aiding our assailants." I nod, recalling my trip here, and end up saying "Yes... I've seen many do just as such. It wasn't easy getting here, as I, rather short-sightedly didn't quite get all the food I needed for the trip... and, well, obviously, that and the walking corpses that decided they want to kill us," I continued walking around the remains of the city until I notice a familiar, bewitching aroma. I head off to the source of the smell, and spot a nu mou with meat sitting on a table near him. The meat appeared to be raw, yet salted as if he was preserving it for sale. I check my bag, and give her almost all of my gil, asking "How much will this buy? I kinda went hungry on my trip to get here, so..." she shrugs, and takes the gil, handing me some amount of the meat, which I quickly put in the bag. We won't be going hungry again for a while, yet... of course, Erion might not enjoy this meat, as he seemed to prefer the leaner fish meat, but this was more than good enough for me.

[Evanist]

After what seemed to be a very long travel, the city of Dorter was in sight, and soon enough me and Robert started to move forwards, with Robert deciding it was a good idea to go run towards the gate. Just then a arrow landed near where Robert was.
"Hold!" he then heard. He suddenly made Boco stop moving, his walking over all this time making him tired. Just then Robert walked forwards more and had another arrow land near him.
"Best to stop moving Robert! Kupo..." he then says. Aftwards the gates opened up, with chocobo's with their riders going outside. He listened to what was being said and breath deeply.
"Like my friend said, we are wanderers. And yes I do have a way with the birds. And any transportation I can help with... after my steed get some rest that is." he then says.
He was then welcomed inside the city, where Erion started to see the place for what it was. It made him remember of the times where he was stuck working hard with his family to make enough money to survive. Tough times in a tough district of the town he came from... these were really hard memories to forget. He then notice the tarp and heard Robert's question and the answer. He nods at this and gets down from Boco, petting his bird slowly on the side.
"Indeed, we had many encounters with those beasts... lucky we arrived here." he says calmly. He then fallowed Robert into town, before walking Boco over to the stables where the guards placed their birds. He asked how much it would cost to temporarily place Boco there, and the guard responded that 1 gil would do the trick. Erion nodded and payed for the rental spot in the stable, before going back in town, and heading to the fish market. He then smelled some fish at a distance that was still raw but being salted. He then payed 1 gil for a good amount of fish. He then went over and looked for Robert.
"Gonna let Boco rest for a bit at the stables. He had a long journey here and he needs some time." he says.

[Cyrania]

Jo-Anne

Shepherd of Ylisse

When the Shepherds entered the city, Jo-Anne's eyes were wide with astonishment. One reason was the state of the city itself; the squalor, dilapidation, poverty, crowdedness, hopelessness, and fear that was seen in the people and buildings as well as felt in the very air. "Was it like this in the future Mom and Dad came from?", the Taguel/Manakete silently wondered. " No wonder Dad turned into a worry wort. How did Mom turn out so normal then? If I had to survive in a place like this with no hope of the fighting ever ending, I would probably turn batty too. But Robin defeated Grima before, and if me and the others do our jobs properly like the Shepherds then did, he'll defeat that old lizard again."

Then her mind wandered to the other reason for her astonishment and one that brought with it one of her constant ruminations." Hmm, I wonder what the guy with the grey, feathery wings is like. He's stern-looking, but boy is he handsome. I wonder what a flying Taguel/ untransformed Manakete would be like... Jo-Anne, you need to stop imagining random strangers as husbands. At least get to know the guy first. Husband-hunting though needs to wait for later. Your mission is to stop Grima and protect those who can't protect themselves."

"I'm not going to be fighting all day.", she argued back to herself. "There's always time to meet up with potentials. Besides, with all these different races, possible offspring of our union will always be fun to imagine." For the land of Ylisse had only three races, but this new land she found herself in had at least fourteen different races, ranging from humans to some small dog-like types to the feathered wing type she had just seen. There was even a couple bunny types, though white with weird furry balls that barely connected to their head, and some dragon-like types, though their wings were visible and useable without transforming. "This is perfect. Not only will this be my chance to prove to Dad that I can take care of myself. This may also lead me to finding my one true love."

[Leolycan]

Children of Ivalice

Having made yourself at home among the wayward populous; the Commanding Officer, Rodrick Vernire (a venerable human hedge-knight now leader of the Children) has seen to your accomodations. Though it has been only a couple of hours since a well dressed rider on horseback entered into the garrison's head-quarters, you've heard murmurs of the new band of people that had been let through the gate. They call themselves Shepards, though not of sheep. They claim to be a militia of their homeland of Ylisse, a nation foreign to you. You could attempt to approach them if you wished, but before you can, you're delivered a message.

@EvanistTo the one named Erion: He'd shortly be visited by a Seeq in chainmail armor carrying a letter. Though somewhat abrasive, Erion can tell the portly being is trying his best to be courteous, "M'lord," his speech a mix of gruff tones and snorts, "I come bearing a message, I have." With that, he hands you a wax sealed missive before bowing and running off... Awfully fast for one so heavy set. As Erion read over the letter, he'd realize he's been requested to tend the stables and the creatures within. Mostly chocobo of many colors, a few of the visitors horses, pegasi, and wyverns have been loged here. Though many of the riders are attending their own steeds, it is asked that he manage the beasts who have lost their owners. Though the Commander does not offer compensation in the form of gil, he's offered him a place to stay in the garrison for as long as he remain in the city. At the bottom of the missive is a small line of subtext:

'From one knight to another, these people have need of us. I pray you might aide us in assisting them.

Humbly,
Sir Vernire'

@LugiaTo the one named Robert: He is intercepted in his current task by the graceful visage of a Viera, dressed in a rather complimenting red gown with a pristine metal rod at her side. As she looks Robert over, he can't help but get the distinct feeling she is judging him. After a moment of awkward silence- and her ignoring whatever he may ask or say- she waves her hand for him to follow. As she turns to leave, she stops halfway; her eyes fixed upon Robert, waiting for him, "We've not long. Your presence is requested upon the wall."

Shepards of Ylisse

As you've began to take in the sites and sounds of the city around you, you can't help but notice the lack of a strong military presence. Despite this seeming to be a makeshift stronghold, there are very few guards; stationed mostly at the only entrance to the town and a few near the graveyard. Yet, despite their readiness to take up arms, they are few in years and just by the way they hold their weapons, you can tell most have never held them before. A senior mercenary closer to the center of your band merely chuckles, "Aye. Rather nice coffin they've built for themselves." This remark gains him the ireful stares of many within your own party, not to mention the few civilians who just happened to overhear.

@CyraniaTo the one named Jo-anne: As she went about whatever tasks she had set aside for herrself, Jo-Anne couldn't help but see a rather odd duo approaching her. One was the floating fluff-ball she had noticed earlier, seeming whimsical in nature in his slightly dingy white robes, holding aloft a small wooden rod in his hand. To his flank -and in stark contrast- stood a tall elegant woman with ears of a rabbit, dressed in a leather two piece that covered her bust and lowered body. They spent a moment looking her over before the little one spoke, "You are an odd one, kuppo. What tribe does this one come from?"

The taller female staggered her stance as her arms crossed under her chest, "It's hard for this one to say she is of our kin. Perhaps she has a name she wishes to tell?"

@EklispeTo the one named Arus: The outspoken words of his callous comrade behind Arus had garnered quite the attention of the crowd around them. As such, it seemed that every pair of eyes- both familiar and foreign- were staring daggers into the man.

"Oi! Can't these people take a joke?" The same mercenary whispered under his breath, just loud enough for Arus and few others to hear. Despite his dismissive claim, it's clear the man was merely trying to hide behind the guise of a jest. Though it seemed the damage had already been done as a trio of natives approached the caravan from Ylisse.

"You've alot of nerve stranger. Walking into our city, accepting our hospitality, and mocking our state of affairs. Nothing more than a cur if you ask me," A stocky scaled being called from the front of the group, flanked by a draconic winged female to his left and a rather porcine-looking man to his right. Though their anatomy were foreign to Arus, he could tell they held at least some hostility, "Vernire should've left you out of the keep to rot!"

[Lugia]

Not long after I finish my transaction, a letter finds its way to Erion, and a Viera, a red mage who is oddly enough holding a rod rather than the usual rapier that they tended to wield, found her way to me. I decided not to say anything until she gestured for me to follow her. Given that I was supposed to be working here, I figured whatever she was going to lead me to was going to be at least related to whatever work I'd be doing behind, or, I suppose in this case, on these walls. A strange group of people, which included a Viera of their own entered the city as I was following the red mage. This viera seemed amazed by just about everything here, despite there being so little to be amazed about... particularly, she seemed interested in the men of the area. This viera was obviously foreign, as she didn't wear any of the usual, or traditional garb of the viera. One of the ones traveling with this stranger made a rude remark about the town, and the condition it was in, stating that it was better suited as a coffin, which instantly granted him more than a few enemies, in the form of onlookers and bystanders who heard what he said. I knew the city was in horrible shape, and I wasn't born here, nor did I live here for any significant length of time, so I wasn't really bothered by his remark... the mage who was guiding me, however, did. She glared at him with a look of pure malice, and I had to calm her down with "Let's be kinder to our guests, after all, we could certainly use their help, right?" it didn't work at first, but she eventually calmed down, and continued guiding me to where I'd most likely spend the rest of the day, or something. Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said about the rest of the town, as a trio of characters seemed pretty peeved at whomever made that remark. I honestly hope that the strangers won't get kicked out of town, they needed the protection as much as we did.

[Evanist]

Erion looked as Robert was going to leave. Having received the letter, Erion read it for a bit and then breath deeply, looking towards the entrance of the gate.
"Well... I guess I have some work to do... Seem they are missing some people in the stables..." he says, a bit annoyed. He wished he could have just gone and have a bit of time to get back some energy after the long journey, but it seemed they needed help here. His ears then perked up as he hears a comment some people... something about a coffin that they built themselves. Some outsider saying that probably. Erion frowned as he looked towards the guy and then shakes his head.
"Well... here I go kupo." he says, before heading to the stables. He knew he would need to take care of the birds, and possibly other beast that were there. Ever since the rifts opened, other strange creatures started to appear in the land. He just hoped that he would not be stuck doing all the stable work all the time here. They needed to fight against this new threat... As he continued to walk, he arrived at the stables. He breath deeply as he looked around, the place seemed to have gotten repaired a good amount of times, as well as rebuilt to accommodate different creatures. Boco was probably here anyway. He though about it. It would be good to just help out here for now until he could find a group that would go to hunt down the cause of all this. As he walked inside, he was greated by a human, who seemed a bit bored and annoyed right now. Erion showed him the letter, and the man showed him towards the stables of the mounts that didn't have any riders anymore. Erion then started to walk towards there, breathing deeply. At least his experience could be useful here.

[Cyrania]

Jo-Anne

Shepherd of Ylisse

"My race is known as the Taguel."Jo-Anne replied to the two's questions, wondering why they asked her in such a weird way. She was right there. "Would it be too much of a bother if I asked what your races are called?"

"Kuppo, this one is direct," the little, white one said. "And seems genuinely ignorant, kuppo. My race is known as Moogle by the humes."

"And this one's as the Viera," said the tall one.

"Humes? Oh, you mean humans?" Jo-Anne said pointing at a nearby example of that race. Then she heard one of the senior mercenaries chuckle about how the town made a good coffin. The Taguel looked quickly to see which one said that then turned back and said to the duo, "Don't worry. I'll punch him later for you. You've clearly done everything you can to defend this town and its inhabitants. He shouldn't make comments like that." Then she saw three natives walking towards the offender and sighed."Look, I better see to it that a fight doesn't break out over his ill spoken words. That's the last thing anyone needs. Maybe I'll catch up to you two later. The name's Jo-Anne by the way."

Then she darted to the area, seeing that one of the myrmidon was already trying to defuse the situation. But the silence of the offended wasn't boding well to his efforts. "Look," she said when she approached. "The last thing we need right now is to waste our weapons and lives squabbling over the extremely rude words of a uncouth mercenary. Our enemy is Grima and his Risen, not each other. If it would help things, I'm willing to punch him right now, rank or no rank, as a punishment for his insult."

[Eklispe]

Arus resisted the urge to sigh, a joke made in poor taste was many the cause of un-necessary violence, he never really saw the point of jokes. They seemed to be only good for causing trouble. He was once again amazed by the variety of races as he pondered how best to neutralize the situation. Where as taugel and manaketes were the exception at Ylise, it seemed in this place it was quite the opposite. You be hard pressed to find many humans here besides them selves it appeared. "Please, a poor jest but certainly not one a apology can't fix yes?" Arus asked, the question directed at both the source of the vulgar comment and the offended natives. He disliked the word natives, it was such a... tension inducing word. He made a mental note to use the word inhabitants in the future.

The sheer audacity and lack of tact surprised him, certainly no one would say mercenaries were courteous but the man wouldn't have made the comment if he had any sense, or if Robin had been here. At the very least he would've been reprimanded for it. He briefly considered the worth of reporting the man later but decided it would cause more trouble than it was worth. "We only seek to give our aid in whatever form we can." Arus added in as another attempt at pacifying them. Surely the man would offer his apology and they could resume their business peacefully, though he dreaded what would occur if a fight broke out here. Without Robin and surrounded from all sides, even if they won, they would be forced to leave the city one way or the other.

[Leolycan]

Children of Ivalice

@Lugia As the Robert and his guide reached the top of the stairs, the red-dressed Viera would halt in her tracks as she used her hand to flag him onwards, "This one agrees... Reluctantly." As the two continue across the wooden platform, any glance downward would see the duo above the roofs below. Compared to even the sparsely bustling street to which you've been accustomed, the walls population is even more scarce; seeing only a handful of mages and archers lining the wall. Though they armed with only the bare minimum -and shoddily kept as well- it's obvious they are trying to maintain high spirits; cracking jokes and regaling stories amongst each other as they gaze out over the fields before the city.

This walk would continue for only a minute longer, a slender -yet firm- hand would attempt to hold the Nu Mou in place. It'd only take a minute to see why, as a human male: dressed in green robes, carrying a silver rod, and wearing a rather peculiar orange horn on his forehead; strode up to you before haulting.

"Lord, Summoner," the female's voice behind Robert spoke out, causing the man before him to bow his head slightly.

"Lady Trist, I take it this is the one Vernire spoke of?" As the Summoner lifted his head, he'd begin eyeing over the black mage before him, "I see... Well, I'm sure more fire spells would help against the undead. You do know the fire spell, right Mr.-?"

@EvanistErion's walk would be a fairly long one, as the stables would reside on the other side of town near the barracks. Sure enough, a variety of creatures were stationed here, ranging from the docile chocobo, to the fierce wyverns that snapped at anyone but their rider. The human that had greeted him was the town's stable master, though only recently so as the previous master had passed mere days before. As Erion steeled himself for what was to come, he couldn't help but feel his luck would be tested-

Stat Logs

Erion: LCK of 8

Modifiers:

Strange new species (-5)
Handling Experience (+5)
Creature stationed (+2)

Assistance:

Handler Ryan: (+2)

---

Results

Target: 10

Actual: 12

Success!

As the corral came into view, a few chocobos of multiple colors could be seen idly scratching at the straw beneath their feet. Though not to far away, the snarling and growling of a wyvern could be heard, it doesn't seem to have any effect on these birds as they curiously raise their head to see the Moogle approaching their pin.

Shepards of Ylisse

@Eklispe@Cyrania "Oi! Who's side are you on, exactly?!" The mercenary chimed in as the taguel offered to lay him out for their hosts. Seeming a bit disgruntled himself, both Arus and Jo-Anne could tell that the situation was swiftly getting out of hand. Yet, they both tried to settle the dispute-

Stat Logs

Arus: LCK of 6
Jo-Anne: Lck of 7

Modifiers:

High Tension (-5)
Unknown Populus (-5)
Obnoxious Ally (-2)
Common Enemy (+3)
Appology (+3)
New Friends (+3)
Offering to assitance (+2)

Assistance:

Livia the Viera (+3)
Cedwic the Moogle (+3)

Special:

The enemy has a name?! (?)

---

Results

Target:
15

Actual:
18(?)

Success!

and manage to difuse the situation. The two who had just greeted the taguel steped in beside the would be aggressors, the Viera placing a hand on the scaled one's shoulder.

"Your ire is misplaced, Va'gaji. These merely seek to aid us," Though spoken in a matter of fact tone, one could tell the Viera was attempting to calm the flustered creature.

"She's right, kupo. Look at their weapons and mounts! They could've given us alot of trouble by now if they wanted to, kupo," the one calling himself a moogle- his feet planted upon the soil- tugging at the hand of the porcine man.

Almost reluctantly, the scaled-one sighed and shrugged his shoulders, "Fine, fine..." His eyes now focused on Jo-Anne, "You spoke of a 'Grima'. Is that the Beast?" Those around the one called Va'gaji now turned their full attention to the Taguel.

"Wow... Defused the situation almost entirely. I'm impressed," As Arus looked over to inspect the source of the voice, he could see a ornately armored human on one of those feathered creatures. The man could be seen smiling beneath his chain-mail coif, merely eyeing over the situation.

A sudden connection is made. Arus and Jo-Anne feel a slight kinship grown in the face of their ordeals. Rank D established

[Lugia]

I was led to what appeared to be a secret gathering of, well, anyone who can/should attack from a distance. This, of course, included me, as well as the viera who tried to kill me earlier with arrows. I couldn't tell who it was, as I couldn't really see her when she attacked, but I knew she was here... whoever she was. Before I had a chance to ask who it was that tried to make me into a porcupine, I was greeted by a summoner... who wore very strange clothing. All summoners did, and I still had no idea WHY they did, so I decided against mentioning it to him... as he probably wielded much more power than I could ever hope to muster. He asked for my name, as well as whether or not I could use the 'fire' spell. I answered with "Robert, sir... and yes, I can cast the most basic of fire spells... that being said, I can't cast anything more than the basic spells, unfortunately. Despite my appearances, I am not a very accomplished mage, yet, to be honest with you," I then think about the strangers for a moment, and recalled a certain way they spoke that led me to believe that they might have encountered these exact beasts before. I would have said something to the summoner, or anyone, however, I couldn't just suggest we leave for a moment to ask them about anything on what amounts to hypothesis and rumor. No, if I was going to tell them to go seek help from our visitors, to take advice from them, I would have to base it on cold, hard facts... or, I could just ask the visitors if they've survived this exact, or a similar, scenario before. If I simply told them to take orders from these visitors because they might have been through this and survived, they wouldn't do it, and they'd call me crazy.

[Evanist]

Erion walked forwards in the stable, carefully, moving slowly as he looked at each cage of the mounts, as well as a wyvern at a distance. He sighed calmly, before starting off with the first pen, grabbing a good amount of food for the chocobo's before entering the pen. The chocobo of a green coloring looked at him intrigued before Erion placed the food in the feeding pen, and then moved near the chocobo as it started to feed. He then observed the bird, and started to groom in slowly.
"There there... everything is alright..." he says in a calming voice. He continued to take care of the bird, making sure it didn't have any injuries before leaving the pen and closing it, heading to the next pen. He continued to work like this for a while, taking care of the birds calmly, not having anything happen until.... he was in front of wyvern's cage. He looked up at it and then gulped his saliva. Just then Ryan then stable owner arrived near him.
"Impressive isen't it... a beast from the land of Ylisse." he then says, as Erion looked at the creature.
"Yes... Kupo...." he says, worried a bit right now. It was definitely bigger then him. How can those people even ride these creatures and not have them go wild and go cause problems... he didn't understand. He wasen't going to try riding one, that for sure... at least not until he is sure he isn't risking his puff ball by trying.

[Eklispe]

Arus give a sigh of relief and turned towards the armored stranger. "Chalk it down to some peaceful friends than skill. Though I thank you for the compliment none the less." He would've explained what Grima was but it seemed they had their eyes on Jo. Instead he continued conversing with the stranger. "I am Arus, from the looks of you you're either a guard or some sort of mercenary like us. Might you give me your name?" Arus inquired. It couldn't hurt to make as many friends as possible, in particular when the individual in question looked to be quite capable.

[Cyrania]

Jo-Anne

"If the Beast is a giant dragon that's in charge of the Risen, then yes that is Grima." The Taguel told the the scaled one called Va'gaji and his friends. "He was defeated in our lands by our leader, Robin, some years ago. We've come to this land to defeat him once more." She then went on, answering any questions of theirs to the best of her abilities and pointing out those who could give better answers. As the trio continued on, Jo-Anne turned to the Viera and Moogle and said, "Thanks for the assist. Things would have probably got a lot worse without your help."

"Kupo, it was nothing,"said the moogle. "You've come to help and shouldn't be thanked by a fight. The name's Cedwic, kupo," he said while offering his hand.

"And this one's Livia" said the viera.

Shaking both their hands, Jo-Anne said,"It's a pleasure to meet you."

[Leolycan]

Children of Ivalice

@Lugia "Well, even simple acts can have massive effects. You'll be taking up post with Jili-" The robed man speaks, motioning to the Viera that led you here, "and manning the wall tonight. You're free to retrieve whatever effects you feel you need and return here within the hour. As for the funding... Just tell them Rimein sent you, and you should be good." With a knowing wink, he'd turn to look out over the field, his once prominent smile fading slightly, "It's a nasty business, having to kill those you've already seen put down. But we living must do what we must to survive. I trust you'll do the same when the time comes," With a glance back to Robert -that could only be described as sympathetic- the one called Rimein bowed his head politely before turning to leave.

"That one is a good man. Odd, but well intended," The familiar voice of the one now known as Jili spoke out from behind the mage, "You have little time to gather things. This one will wait for you at the base of the stairs," If the Nu Mou should turn to look upon her, he would see the red mage turning to depart.

@Evanist "This one was brought in by those people at the gates. Apparently the rider took an arrow and fell from his mount. He... Didn't survive the fall." Ryan spoke out as he now shifted his attention to shoveling out the soiled straw from the previous pen, "Since then, he won't let anyone touch him. Snaps at anyone who even tries... Careful if you try anything with that one, hate to have to clean your viscera from the stalls." If the moogle turned to look at the boy, he would see a subtle smirk across his face. Appearantly the last remark was supposed to some form of dark humor.

Once looking back to the Wyvern though, Erion noticed something he hadn't really noticed before. Despite the intimidating exterior, and brutish mannerisms, he could swear the wyvern was... crying? Or at least somethign was happening to it's eyes. They looked downtrodden as the creature rested it's muzzle upon the floor before closing it's eyes.

"Anyways, if you wouldn't mind heading back into town and picking up a couple of potions? Have a few wounded birds and such that need some attending," Ryan would walk up to the moogle holding out a small leather bag, "Fifty gil in this. Should be enough to get at least two. If you can haggle them down and get more, it'd be greatly appreciated."

Shepards of Ylisse

@Eklispe The armored man couldn't help but chuckle as the myrmidon approached him, idly tugging on the reins of his mount as it slightly shifted from beneath him.

"Well met, Sir Arus! They call me Holliander. But feel free to call me Holli or Ander, no preference," It was at this point that the myrmidon would notice the man was rather weathered, his beard and eyebrows gone white with age. Yet, something more subtle would catch the Arus' attention. It was then the man on the bird cracked a knowing smile, "Yes, I'm not like most others. So of the people around here would call me a Sword Saint, or Holy Swordsman. Though I'm not a fan of titles, you'll find it helps at the pubs around this land." It becomes quite apparent that this man has a highly better disposition then the others around you... Then again, he is one of the only ones that openly smells of liquor and mead.

"So, Sir Arus! You carry yourself like a warrior. How about I buy you a round at the tavern once you're given leave, hmm?"

@Cyrania"So you banished this 'Grima' to our lands to save your own." Va'gaji spoke pointedly, obviously disgruntled about the revelation as he turned toward those who had followed him before, "Let's go. I'm sure Commander Vernire would want to hear about all this." And with that, they left without another word.

The Viera and Moogle would provide much better company, the smaller one chiming in, "So, Jo-Anne, how are you enjoying your stay at Dorter, kupo? This place was much more vibrant in it's prime... But we're fighting to get it back, kupo!"

The Viera would roll her eyes, seemingly annoyed by the moogle's outgoing nature, "Cedwic speaks true... But this one would trade the city for the forest any day." With that, she'd eye over the Taugel, "If you'd like, this one could introduce you to her sisters. There is a small grove not far from here, where they assemble."

Unknown

@Crimson Raven How he got here, Garbranth would not know. What his purpose was, Gabranth would not know... The only thing clear to him now was his need to run. Though no stranger to the sword, the overwhelming numbers of the beasts that pursued him would have easily taken his life if he had remained at that odd church. Accompanied by an unknown woman, he'd continue to bolt through the unfamiliar forest, doing his best to flee.

"I can't believe it... It worked!" The lady would remark, seeming almost oblivious to their pursuers... That is until an arrow was lodged in a tree just in front of her. With a sudden yelp, she'd continue running alongside the armored man- her tone suddenly changed, "Where are we going?"

The warrior would have no clue, all he could do is run. There was a hill just a little ways ahead. If he could make it there, perhaps he could see a place to hide from this horde. Just as the thought would fade form his mind, a shambling assailant would appear cresting the hill. It's clear this one was once a warrior, his armor rent and broken with his blade tattered and chipped, but the spark of life had left his eyes long ago. What faced the warrior now was nothing more than a walking corpse, but it's raised blade betrayed it's purpose... It was here to kill the man and his newfound companion.

[Crimson Raven]

The warrior, in his massive suit of armor and tattered cape that may have had a symbol on it at some point, didn't respond to his companion's questions. "Just keep running." He said. As Gabranth ran, he was impressed t the apparent weightlessness of his armor, although for some reason, not surprised. At the appearance of the monster Gabranth had to make a quick decision. "Go on ahead," He said to his companion. "I will distract the thing long enough for you to get away. "But what about the ones pursuing us?" She asked. "Do not be concerned, I will make it." He responded. "But-" She tried to argue "Go." He said. She dashed off, slightly to the side to flank the monster. Gabranth drew his swords, and charged the monster head on, meeting it at the top of the hill. He acted on instinct, he slashed overhand at the monster an followed it with a side slash from his second sword. Keeping his momentum forward, he continued into a pair of double slashes in an all-out attack. Being in combat was exhilarating. He had some idea he had been a warrior before, he certainty felt he knew what he was doing.

---

Speed stat: 8 | No. turns: 4
Gabranth runs toward Risen A
Gabranth Attacks Risen A
Gabranth Attacks Risen A
Gabranth Attacks Risen A

[Lugia]

I simply nod, and look over to the wilderness surrounding the town. I notice one peculiar thing on top of a hill. Taking a closer look revealed it to be a zombie. "Everyone! Zombie on the hill!" I shout to everyone nearby on the wall, hoping that they'd listen to a novice like myself... of course, even if they didn't, I'd offer my own aid. Strangely enough, it seemed to be fighting some unseen individual, as it had its sword raised as if to strike them down. Even if it was shambling away from the town, I'd rather there be less zombies in the world than more. I focus, clear my mind of distractions, and try to cast my most basic fire spell, making sure to aim at the zombie. The rest of those stationed on this side of the wall would most likely offer their aid, that is, if they heard me and weren't mad at me for yelling. The zombie... what could it be attacking, or, rather, WHO could it be attacking? Were there yet more wanderers about who weren't quite as fortunate as I was and who managed to either unwittingly attract, or accidentally run into a zombie? If there was one zombie here, shouldn't there be more of them, after all, it's not like they're rare... then again, maybe they like to stay away from properly fortified cities for easier prey... and easier recruitment. After that bit of thinking, I fire yet another spell at the zombie, hoping that if the last one didn't connect, this one, at least, would.

---

10 SPD
I looked over to see the zombie ? STAT
I shouted to everyone on the wall about the zombie 11 LCK
I aimed a fire spell at Risen A 5 SKL, 17 MAG
I skipped an action. NO STAT
I aimed another fire spell at Risen A 5 SKL, 17 MAG

[Evanist]

Erion nodded before taking the gil, and looking back at the wyvern, having seen how it reacted. It seemed... really saddened, which might explain why he would act like this... It probably was still too sad about his rider's death. Behind that cold exterior, it seemed like there was a gentle heart. He breath deeply and then looked at the moogle.
"UNderstood... I think I might be able to handle that." he says. He then takes the bag of gil and run off into town. He then looked into each stall, looking at each of the owners. He was searching each stall that sold potions, checking the prices and comparing each of them at each stall. In total there were 3 stalls that sold potions, with one of them selling higher then the rest, but rather far from each other. This gave Erion a idea. Quick thinking and bargening... He moved quickly to the stall with the highest price. He looked at the potion. He then started to bargain with the owner, talking about the prices of the other places he went to. He then waited, and actually waited a bit far away from the owner, making it feel like he was going to search for other shops for potions. He then came back and talked about the prices of the potions of the lowest priced shop owner and started to bargain, attempting to get 4 potions for 50 gils. He then started to head back after this was done, handling the potions to the moogle.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bargening with shop keepers, using arguments about prices of other shops, attempting to lower the price to get 4 potions for 50 gil: 8 LCK

[Cyrania]

Jo-Anne

Jo-Anne chuckled a bit at the moogle's question and said, "Well, I can't really say much about how I enjoy my stay yet since I've just got here and had to settle down a potential fight. But I can imagine how it was in its hey-day and how it will be after Grima's defeat." Then the Taguel sighed and looked back the way Va'gaji went. "We thought Grima was dead for good. We didn't know he would come back somewhere else. We didn't mean for him to come here or anywhere else..."

"And we know you didn't mean to, kupo" replied Cedwic. "Va'gaji is just on-edge like most are, wondering how to keep as many people alive as possible and what is the enemy. The fact that your "Grima" came out of nowhere for us hasn't helped that, kupo. But still, its not your fault and it's not fair of him to insinuate it's yours."

The green-haired Taguel faintly smiled,"Thanks for that. Maybe you could show me around town while my troop is still here." Then she turned to Livia, " And I would be happy if you would introduce me to your sisters. I guess..."

Then the three of them heard a fireball, no, two fireballs, being thrown from the wall. Jo-Anne turned back to her new friends, "Should we check out what's happening?"

The white-robbed moogle replied,"Kupo, yes we should".

And the viera replied,"This one is interested."

So the three ran to the wall to see what was happening, hoping that it wasn't signaling an invasion of Risen.

[Eklispe]

Arus resisted frowning. It seemed no matter where you went everyone still wanted a drink. He put on a smile, "Well I'll keep your offer in mind though no doubt we will be busy for some time with accommodations and what not." He paused when he heard the cry of zombie from someone on the wall. He really should learn what to call the many races that lived here, no doubt it would be troublesome if he didn't learn them sooner or later. He considered riding out, it seemed they had nothing to do here until Robin returned and they knew what to do. Therefor it would be selfish not to attempt to help remove the risen, though no doubt there were enough guards on the wall to deal with it.

"At the moment though it seems that my aid could be used, farewell for now." he said offering a wave to the "Sword Saint", quite an impressive title, perhaps he could learn something from the old man, even if he did seem to have a habit of drinking. He turned his horse setting it at a canter as it ran out the gates. He saw the source of the trouble and immediately set his horse to a sprint, the risen would no doubt be killed by the time he arrived but if there were more it would be troublesome. Of course fighting from horseback wasn't his specialty so he would jump off when he got close enough.