Rathiain Bukead Anviltank
The Cursed Son of Creation
Rathiain Bukead Anviltank, reclined quietly, a silent observer amidst the lively chatter of the adventurers gathered in the expansive chamber. Each voice carried weighty opinions on the matter at hand, speculation weaving intricate patterns that mirrored the teachings of the masters. Yet, Rath remained cautious, knowing that truth often hid behind veils of uncertainty. The prospect of embarking on a quest for treasure seemed promising, but he couldn't shake the nagging doubts of potential obstacles—guarded riches or formidable entities—that could thwart their endeavors.
A small sigh escaped Rath's lips, the sound tinged with an otherworldly quality, akin to the distant hum of ancient magic resonating through arcane artifacts. He took a sip of his drink, the liquid offering a brief respite from the weight of anticipation.
When Budi, one of the company, leaned in to catch a scent of Faline’s hair, Rath resisted the urge to intervene. His mentor's words echoed in his mind, cautioning against rushing into the role of a self-proclaimed hero. "Wait until someone asks for help," they had advised, "for they may not need nor want yours." And so, Rath remained still, observing each individual's reaction, silently assessing the group dynamics that would shape their journey to find their masters.
Nestled discreetly within the confines of Rath's armor lay a magitech bird, its form a fusion of arcane energy and mechanical ingenuity, concealed from casual observation. The bird's eyes sparked to life, reflecting the pulsating arcane energy emanating from the suit. With a sense of curiosity, it surveyed the room from its perch on Rath's back, seamlessly blending its mechanical form with the magical aura enveloping it.
Amidst the ongoing debate about their course of action, Rath sensed the group's collective determination to embark on a quest akin to grave robbing, in search of a long-lost treasure. The notion unsettled him, stirring a knot of discomfort in his stomach. Leaning forward, he sought solace in the quiet companionship of his magitech companion, Flitz.
As Flitz flitted around Rath's shoulders and descended onto the table, Rath remained lost in contemplation, his thoughts consumed by uncertainty. It wasn't until the magitech bird pecked at his armored arm that Rath roused from his reverie, acknowledging the silent plea for guidance with a nod. The bird responded with a motion that seemed to convey a sense of satisfaction, though its mechanical features lacked the ability to display emotion. Retreating to its "bird's nest" atop the spine of Rath's armor, it emitted a series of magical mechanical chirps before powering down into sleep mode, its presence a silent sentinel within the shadows of Rath's suit.
Only after that did a well-rounded dwarven woman enter, bearing trays of food with a buoyant step. Rath observed the cheerful demeanor with which she served, addressing Dorian as "Boss" with a lilt of genuine warmth. Though it seemed peculiar, Rath found himself appreciating the positive energy she exuded. As she approached him, offering his meal, Rath nodded deeply in acknowledgment, a gesture of respect for her hospitality.
"Expression: Thank you for the meal." Rathian conveyed his gratitude to the dwarf woman. Once again, his voice carried an otherworldly resonance, reminiscent of ancient magic coursing through arcane relics. However, this time, a subtle warmth imbued his tone, hinting at a smile that transcended the peculiar sounds emanating from him.
He glanced at his meal, another sigh escaping his lips as he cast a fleeting glance around the room. Reluctant to leave the comfort of his solitude, he triggered the magic within his suit, causing the helm to split into several sections. Each segment retracted, unveiling his youthful visage, devoid of the rugged features typically associated with adulthood. Rath's appearance, akin to that of a young teenager yet to undergo their growth spurt, rendered him distinctly androgynous. Coupled with the suit's modification of his speech to a near-sexless tone and its feminine displacer beast form, Rath feared being perceived as too soft and weak, despite his forty years of age.
Avoiding eye contact, Rath focused on his meal, his companion Flitz chirping briefly before sensing his master's distraction and returning to slumber. Rath lifted the bowl to his nose, savoring the tantalizing aroma before invoking a spell, enveloping the food in a shimmering aura of magical energy. With a whirring resonance, the magic infused the meal, enhancing its flavor and vitality. As he ate, Rath consumed his meal with ravenous fervor, as if driven by an insatiable hunger. Upon finishing, exhaustion weighed heavily upon him, evident in his hastened consumption. Glancing around the room, Rath silently offered gratitude to whatever deities may be listening for the lack of attention drawn to his voracious appetite, or perhaps, the feigned ignorance of those who had witnessed it.
Observing others claim bunks for the night, Rath's smile would have betrayed his fondness for sleep if his face were still showing. He sought solace in a secluded corner of the room, away from the bustling activity, ensuring no one would mistake him for a mere coat rack. With a wave of his hand, he cleared the area, invoking the magic of his suit to cleanse and imbue the space with the soothing scent of fresh lavender. In mere moments, the corner transformed into a haven of tranquility.
As Rath reclined back, preparing to surrender to the embrace of sleep, he felt a subtle shift in the air. Arcane energies responded to his need, coalescing into plates similar to those within his suit. These constructs formed beneath him, providing stability and structure, allowing Rath to lay down without discomfort or awkward posture. Leaning back Rath locked his suit into a reclined almost laying down position, embracing the promise of slumber. The weight of exhaustion lifted from his shoulders as he surrendered to the embrace of sleep, welcoming its embrace with a whispered sigh of contentment.