[center][img]https://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/tombstone-mountain-range-yukon-territory-canada-stephan-pietzko.jpg[/img]
 [i]The slanted ground going inward was the valley that would lead to the arc going around the mountain. A not too often traversed path yet one still riddled with signs of battles having been settled here. Shields and helmets laid rusted. Merging in hue with the uneven ground and stones. They were scattered randomly through this valley.[/i][/center]

Time Stamp: 1:15 PM
 
It's noon now? Aste thought, rubbing her tears off the edge of her eyes. The surroundings hills does not look so familiar to her.
 
Squinting her eyes against the bright sun, the long sleep in the carriage had made her shoulders ache. The carriage has made a decent sleeping place for the magician Aste, but the uneven hilly roads made it less pleasant to be awake. Stretching her elbows, Aste look a good glance towards the back of the wagon. “Good afternoon---”
 
Aeden continued his constant vigilance as they resumed their trip. They had been lucky so far, but you could never be too careful. He glanced occasionally at Shye. He considered approaching her to start a conversation, but he really didn't know what to say. Another question was beginning to surface in his mind as well: why was Nailah coming along if she was not a member of the Alliance?
 
This was a mission of utmost importance. Was it really appropriate for her to be with the Alliance and know as much as she did?
 
Nyph soared above everyone once again keeping up an overarching view of the area. He felt a bit jealous of the attention that Gaston had received from the others. He felt a bit of an urge to compete with the griffon wyvern, but he did not want to put the group at risk. He would wait until everyone was resting at camp on their first night before starting the attention game.
 
Once underway, Tali resumed her usual walking and songmaking. No one had complained yet, so she figured it was at least keeping them occupied. Besides, such a large convoy would never be stealthy, so music would hardly give them away any more. She switched to her ocarina to give her vocal cords a rest, playing a lively jig for everyone. She did occasionally glance over at Lynn's carriage and towards Nailah. She was curious what they had spoken about, especially given the circumstances of the past day. Suffice to say, Tali was, unusually for her, wary of what may happen next stop.
 
Itzel tried to resume her scouting as normal, but her attention whoring mount proved impossible to motivate. So, she flew herself, often leaving rainbows dancing along the group or within the terrain nearby. She did some light hunting along the way, getting some easy to carry small game for next time they made camp.
 
Gaston, meanwhile, spent his time hopping between anyone that would pet him, focusing especially on Shye as she was willing to pet him and within easy reach. He would even occasionally knock at Lynn's carriage to try and get more attention from her. He even tried to get attention from Nailah. It seemed like he didn't have a worry in the world with nearly half the group scouting for them. He also occasionally pounced into brush or off a ledge to grab some small game. He carefully tied it to the side of the wagon, showing off his sapience and desire to keep things relatively clean.
 
With nothing much changing in their rather empty surroundings the group would simply end up seeing the fighting of horned goats. They would also see eagles soaring through the air. But most concerning were the vultures who fed on the scraps of something that died not too long ago nearby.
 
Time Stamp: 2:05 PM
The waters of the river that shared a connection with the ocean was visible to the far upper left side. Almost spilling with its fresh water reflection into the mountain side. But these rushing waters were still a bit of a ways away.
 
Dremmick kept up his patrol ahead of the group. Thankful that there hadn't been anything else in the way. He noticed the change in scenery though. The place was riddled with signs of battles past. He had the inkling of an idea to use his new staff to see the effects it has on his necromancy, but he figured there was a time and place for everything. When a large group of people were counting on you to scout ahead, it was probably best not to get sidetracked.
Lynn decided to nap on what she had been told. All that time in the carriage had her body craving the direct sunlight, so she moved from her horse back to on top of the carriage to sleep and sunbathe, only every once in a while happily interrupted by Gaston looking for attention.
 
Allard looked over to Aste as he heard her stir. [color=9ACD32]"G'mornin' lass. Or should I say, good afternoon?"[/color] he laughed as he turned back to face forward as he walked alongside the cart, Nailah riding in the front. [color=9ACD32]"It was....her words I can only say left me....uncertain. In short, I was told that I will come across great trials. Many being my past catching up with me. That I should learn ta rely on others as they rely on me, but....I always fear that in doing so, I may risk tha very ones I try ta protect."[/color] 
 
He was silent for a while as he walked. He looked down to the egg the servitor was holding. Something about it warmed his heart. As if the world was trying to give him a second chance at the life that was taken from him. He nodded to himself, [color=9ACD32]"When I joined this Allience, honestly, i was to see if I could find the ones responsible for what happened to my family, and tear them to pieces, or to find the end of my life trying....But now.... after meeting you,"[/color] he nodded towards Nailah, [color=9ACD32]"seeing my town an' old friends once more, becomin' a sign of hope for my people, and given new responsibility....I think... I have found my purpose once again, a reason to continue. And I will not let it be squandered once more, come what may."[/color]
 
Try as Shye might, she couldn't help but start to feel tired. The previous day of travel and fighting, the the rough, uncomfortable night, and then today, despite the bath, had finally caught up to her. Her pace was starting to slow, just enough to start lagging to the rear of the group, just in front of Tali. She tried to concentrate on the music to help her keep her pace up.
 
 When Nix was tossed off of Gaston, she chirped a little irritated at him before flying up to see Shye starting to merge more with the rear of the group. Nix flew down to Aeden and went to land on his shoulder, struggling to find purchase against the armor with her tiny claws. Once she got his attention, she flew back to Shye's shoulder. Shye gently pet Nix as she chirped a worried tone to her. The river wasn't too much farther. She partially hoped they would maybe set camp there, but that may just be wishful thinking. She could [i]kill[/i] for a decent night's sleep about now.
 
Despite the questions that swirled in Nailah's head, she continued the trip without thinking about them too much. Even though one could know a few aspects of it's future, it was still largely unknown and undecided. After all, exactly as the old woman said, now that she knew about her future, it could change. Other than that, she always lived her life one day at a time, it wouldn't change now.
 
After finally having crossed the forest, they encountered themselves in a huge valley, an old battlefield, as it was evident due to the obvious signs of battle. Rusted helmets, armor and shields dotted the valley. Some might think that was a bit morbid or sad, but unexpectedly, Nailah thought it only gave that particular valley a particular beauty. The signs of battle and death, side by side with the abundant life of the valley, eagles soaring in the sky, the lush, green grass and even the horned goats, that seemed to pay respect to the fallen warriors by battling against each other themselves.
 
Interrupting Nailah's peaceful contemplation, a voice sounded from behind the ox cart. It was Aste, who had finally woken up and was currently stretching herself.
 
[color=C86050]"Oh, hey there, sleepy head. Slept well?"[/color] Nailah asked, with a chuckle as she replied to Aste in the back of the ox cart.
 
As Allard turned to her and started speaking, Nailah silently listening to his words as he spoke about himself. Even though she always thought she didn't do that much when she first met him, she couldn't help but to smile when she heard him talking about it, how much he valued meeting her.
[color=C86050]"Sometimes, people need a bit of help in healing the old wounds in their heart. That's why we from the Temple of the Fallen Goddess are here."[/color] Nailah said, with a gentle smile.
 
[color=C86050]"When I first met you, you were suffering, stuck on the past instead of enjoying the here and now. A prisioner. But now I can see that the fire in your eyes are burning once more."[/color] She said, turning to Allard with a satisfied smile.
 
[color=C86050]"It's good, it's how life was intended to be lived. Live your life, chase what you desire and stay true to your feelings, what else matters?"[/color] she finished with a laugh.
 
[color=C86050]"Now... Changing subjects... Do you think it's a good idea giving Lynn a few lessons about self defense?"[/color] Nailah asked, with a thoughtful expression. It didn't take much to realize that she was asking that because of the words she heard from the old woman.
 
Aeden was a bit surprised when Nix attempted to climb onto his shoulder. Once she tried again he raised his eyebrow and chuckled. Nyph used to try the same thing when he was younger to just as much success. [color=ffd700]"You aren't going to fit there."[/color] His tone was very bemused.
 
After she gave up, Nix flew over to Shye. He smiled and chuckled again. He then noticed she was falling back slowly and steadily. She looked exhausted. He pulled back to her. [color=ffd700]"How are you holding together? A few more hours until we're done for the day."[/color]
 
Shye looked up from the ground to see Aeden there, checking up on her. She had just realized that she had been slowing down and had fallen back a bit in the group. [color=DC143C]"Oh, I'm fine, I was just enjoying the music and got a little sidetracked was all,"[/color] she lied with a warm little smile to reassure him. She didn't want him to worry for her more, not after all he already went through to help her. The least she could do is be able to walk to a river without some assistance like some cripple. She straightened up a bit and tried to seem more energized than she really was, as if she really was just lost in thought a moment ago. [color=DC143C]"But a decent night's rest does sound wonderful."[/color]
 
On one of her trips back to the group to check on them, Itzel saw Shye starting to lag behind and Aeden check on her. She only caught a little bit of the conversation, but it gave her a good idea that would both make her mount useful and perhaps give Shye some help without hurting her pride. She flew down to Gaston and got his attention. "You know, you might get more petting and attention as well as be better liked if you go let her ride you to give her a rest." As she referenced a person, she showed Gaston Shye.
 
As expected, once the idea of being known better and given more attention hit Gaston, he practically flew into action. He sauntered over to Shye and grabbed her in a claw, lifting her onto his back. He seemed overly proud of himself the whole time, acting as if it was his idea all along.
 
Shye was taken by surprise as Gaston waltzed up behind her and picked her up. Her eyes went wide in surprise, not prepared for what Gaston was doing.  [color=DC143C]"H-hey! Wait a min- woah!!"[/color] she exclaimed as she was picked up and placed on Gaston's back, sidesaddle. She was still for a moment as she took in what just happened, still wide eyed, her heart racing a bit. Her eyes softened a bit as she relaxed, and she slowly started to giggle, which then turned into a laugh, her hand covering her mouth. She scratched the back of Gaston's head and neck. [color=DC143C]"I guess I can't fool everyone...Thanks."[/color] She then turned to Aeden and smiled again. [color=DC143C]"Seems I've made a new friend."[/color] Nix hopped off and tried her luck again. kneading with her claws on Gaston's back before settling down and curling up.
 
THe sound of Allard had greeted her for the afternoon. Aste contained her own gasp on how she slept through the whole morning.Squinting her eyes at the site of the outside. She thought that place was a marketplace for a mere moment, but its too quiet to be a town centre. The scattered and rusty remannet of the weapons and Armour had told her afterwards of the whole scenery. A remnant of a battlefield. She was taught never to take anything from such places, as they could be haunted with unpleasant evil spirits.but putting that aside, she wasn't sure on what battle had occurred here, but pray that that doesn’t serve as a bad sign.
 
She also felt out of place upon overhearing the conversation. She was sure that Allard was talking about Shye.
 
Another greeting from Nalilah, the lady of the Temple of the Fallen goddess.
 
On whether the young girl needed training, that was a good question. “The way of of the sword takes a lifetime to master, but I don't see why not for her to start at an older age.” Aste called Lynn old without shifting an eye. For a squire or even Apprentice, 20 is considered very old to start.
 
Allard chuckled, "Bah, nonsense, I think it's a great thing for her ta learn. Though, while I think she would still be plenty young enough ta start, gods willing she still has a long life ahead of her, but I think that teaching her the art of the sword might be a bit to....eh....[i]intimate[/i] for tha lass. Should focus on what she has."[/color] He pointed over to the staff that was resting on the carriage roof next to the laid out sunbathing Lynn. [color=9ACD32]"Take the staff of hers for example. That's essentially a thick bar o' solid steel with a rounded handle big enough for her hands to grasp in tha center. She controls it through her water manipulation to water inside those hardened glass decorations on the ends. The weapon would be insanely heavy even for most fit men, almost as if it was inspired by Oro weaponry. Aside from learning more offensive uses of her water manipulation, that would be quite a devastating weapon to run up against. She can control its movement, use it for maneuvering a battlefield, gain height advantages, deliver strong blows from behind a target while distractin' 'em. Oh! Just think if she could spin it it at high speeds before swingin' it around even. It would be a challenge just to get near her, let alone attack."[/color] Allard then stopped and looked around for a moment, chuckling and rubbing the back of his head. [color=9ACD32]"Ah, sorry there, I was startin' ta ramble a bit. Can't say I don't love a good fight, or analyzing' them. Call it a hobby.[/color]


[hider=The river Arrival][center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/456470853039947788/576613036182208512/RiversOceans_GrandCanyon_MultiDay_HiRes_015.png[/img]
[b]Time Stamp 2:45 PM[/b]
[i]A rocky edged river that goes into the ocean down below. A cliff and waterfall at the very ends of the river half a mile east. The river itself was over around 40 meters wide. The rivers waterfall drop was almost countless into the vast endless ocean.[/i][/center]
"[color=A0410d]We're approaching the camping site by the body of water. Get ready to settle down for some time, get the napping cots and snacks out.[/color]"
 
Garrett called to the team, almost about time for them to unpack some of their burdens and relax by the water. Perfect place for a swim, an even more perfect area to defend, if, say, a band of robbers were to approach them, they figuratively had the high-ground in the fight.
 
He dismounted Acrid and began to guide her with her reins, as a signal to slow the pace of the rest of the group. Ah wouldn't it be nice to relax in the open air for once. 
 
"[color=A0410d]Take a dip if you want, too.[/color]"
 
With little else to look at in this land of Gaia Algimar found the change of scene appealing. The stones were eroded from hundreds, maybe thousands of years. Purified waters running from ocean to river to the people who drink it. Yes Gaian water must be some of the richest in this world. Algimar walked to the running rivers edge. Knelt down and ran his hands through it. Cool to the touch but bearable due to the warmth of the sun. Though the cloudiness of Gaia made it a touch too cold to swim in without acclimation. He brought the water to his lips and began to drink slowly but deeply. He seemed to enjoy the water enough to remain there, drinking, for much of the start of everyone's arrival.
 
Finally awake, Aste proceeded to speak her thoughts about Nailah's question about teaching Lynn self defense.
 
[color=C86050]"Although it would be late for her to learn if she was aiming to be a master, I don't think she is too old to learn just enough to defend herself. After all... I don't think she is the type of girl who is interested in martial arts or fighting in general... In fact, I'm worried if she would even want to learn how to defend herself."[/color] Nailah said with a chuckle. Everyone knew how innocent and naive Lynn was. She was a good girl with a good heart and genuinely seemed to dislike violence.
 
[color=C86050]"Even if it's a bit late, I'm sure she could learn one thing or two to help her in emergencies. Enough to buy her some time to flee."[/color] she continued, thinking about it.
 
Allard too had a few valuable advices to give, as he suggested that making her learn how to wield a sword wouldn't fit her at all. Indeed, just as he said, the staff would fit her well, not only because she was already somewhat used to having one nearby her, but because it wasn't as lethal as a sword.
 
As he continued to talk about ways that Lynn could wield her staff, Nailah couldn't help but to notice he was getting just a bit overexcited talking about fighting, making her giggle.
 
[color=C86050]"I wouldn't go as far, though."[/color] she said, laughing.
 
[color=C86050]"But indeed she could use it with a frightening efficiency if she practiced enough."[/color] She continued.
[color=C86050]"Anyways... It's not a lethal weapon too, so she wouldn't have as much resistance to learn as she would with a sword or something with a blade!"[/color] Nailah continued, agreeing with Allard.
 
[color=C86050]"Plus with her magic and the way she controls her staff, it could be really effective."[/color] She continued, thinking about what Allard said.
 
After some time, they finally arrived on the river it was mentioned before the trip began. Some time to rest would be welcome. Not only that but being able to take a dip into the river and relax a bit would be really nice.
[color=C86050]"Finally! It will be nice to stretch myself a bit and relax in the river. You're welcome to join me too if you want, Allard"[/color] Nailah said with a playful wink to him, as she stretched herself and started walking towards the river.
 
[color=C86050]"Lynn, you said you wanted to swim too, right? I'm waiting for you there!"[/color] Nailah said as she passed nearby the Lassa girl with a playful wink.
 
Having arrived on the river, she was surprised to meet Algimar on the river's edge, appreciating the scenery and drinking a bit from the pure, crystalline waters. He seemed to be genuinely enjoying himself as he did so.
 
With a mischievous smirk on her face, she approached the man, stopping just besides him right next to the river and starting to undress herself before going in. Even though she was right besides Algimar, she did so almost if it was the most normal thing in the world.
 
[color=C86050]"I heard that water from Gaian rivers are wonderful for a woman's skin due to the minerals. I'm sure it must be quite refreshing too!"[/color] Nailah said, after taking off the clothes she used to cover her breasts.
 
[color=C86050]"Ooh~ And the temperature is just right too!"[/color] she said in a happy surprise, after finishing undressing herself and dipping the tip of one of her feet inside of the river before slowly getting on the water. Not before giving Algimar quite a good time to look at her naked body, glistening with sweat due to the trip.
 
After she got inside, she leaned forward in a slightly suggestive manner, using her hands to drink some water. Not surprisingly, that gave Algimar quite the sight from her behind.
 
[color=C86050]"No wonder you were so satisfied drinking it! Would you like to join me?"[/color] she said, looking over her shoulder with a mischievous smile to the man.
Tali strode over to the river without a single bit of hesitation. Water was a welcome change of pace. She stripped off almost all of her clothing, leaving just her bikini-like garments to not make some of her more conservative companions uncomfortable. Seeing Nailah naked again was quite enjoyable, so Tali made sure to brush against the woman as she passed. "Always up for a nice show, eh Nailah?"
 
She waded in until she could do a full dive, smoothly transitioning into a dive and beginning her swim. She glanced over towards Lynn as she felt the rather cold water. "Lynn, want to join me? If you get cold, just stick close! I'll keep you nice and warm."
 
Gaston found a comfy rock to sun himself on, positioning himself to watch over the group and the horizon. Anyone not used to his behavior would find his lack of attention seeking strange, but he knew that this situation might threaten his owner's secret, so he kept a very close eye on her.
 
Itzel found a place to sit by the river. She did not wade in nor even strip off a single article of clothing. If anything, she seemed a bit self-conscious and wrapped her wings around her body, hiding all but her head in shining rainbow wings.
 
Dremmick was already there at at the river when the others arrived. in fact, he had just enough time to bathe himself prior to their arrival. WHen the group arrived, Dremmick was siting by the bank  and leaning against a tree with his eyes closed, but he listened for their arrival. He let out a soft sigh as he opened his eyes and looked over to the group. Algamar, not to far from where he was, seemed to be getting a drink from the water while a few of the girls....made themselves more comfortable and went for a swim. When he saw Tali, he had the notion to talk to her about her servitor, but it seemed as though she was busy and he figured it could wait till later. After a while of riding,  scouting, and staying on guard, it was nice to relax a little. Though he still didn't feel like he should totally let his guard down, after all, they were still traveling, so anything technically could show up, and he was fairly skeptical of their most recent addition to the group still.
---
    Allard nodded to Nailah as she headed towards the river, [color=9ACD32]"I'd love ta go for a swim, can't say I had in quite some time, gotta make sure I don't sink like a rock,"[/color] he joked. [color=9ACD32]"I'll be over there shortly, just want ta check on tha egg."[/color] Allard met up with the servitor, who still seemed to be carrying the egg around. The egg seemed to shift every now and then, though nothing more. [color=9ACD32]"Seems like it doesn't have that much longer till it hatches. Could be any time this week really. Anyway, I thank you for watching it thus far."[/color] he said to the servitor.  After that, he decided to head to the river.
---
    Shye was quiet for most the rest of the trip. She wasn't sure what to say or do, to her there was this awkward air around her.  Here she was in the middle of a group of people, which she has never done before, and she wasn't sure how to start a conversation, much less keep one going. She never really conversed with anyone before. She was always encouraged to be seen and not heard growing up, and then she wasn't able to talk at all for the last few years until just recently. The sudden placement into a more sociable position was still a bit daunting to her. She got off of Gaston and gave him one last pet before he made his way to a rock to sun on. Nix was still fast asleep in the downy comfort of Gaston's feathers, purring peacefully. Shye went to the river with the others, since it seemed most were headed there anyway, and found a place to the side to sit. She took off her greaves and stockings, her pale skin a stark contrast to her surroundings. She rested her feet into the cold yet soothing water of the river, breathing a sigh of relief as she did so. Unlike a few of the other girls, she wasn't too keen on stripping down for a swim around the other men. [i]Well, maybe for-[/i] Shye shook her head at an intrusive thought, blushing slightly, though quickly regaining her composure.
---
    Lynn was napping on top of her carriage when she heard her name called. Her ears twitched as she slowly sat up and stretched her arms and legs, then arcing her back and tail in another stretch as she yawned. She sat up fully and looked around for a moment as if in a daze before realizing where they were. [color=7FFFD4]"OH! We're here! Yay, I'll be right down!"[/color] she shouted. Her staff seemed to nimbly scoop her up off the top of the carriage as if it were a part of her. She flew down to the river just in time to miss Nailah's little display and stopped at the edge of the river. She tiptoed to the very edge of the water, inquisitively, her tail flicking about as she curiously inspected it. The look and smell was a lot different from home, and when her tail wrapped forward and dipped into the water, the cold surprised her, goosebumps covering her skin for a moment. [color=7FFFD4]"It's a lot colder than I thought it would be...,"[/color] she noted out loud as her staff rested on the ground. Unlike at the baths Lynn kept her clothes on as she gathered up her courage and finally dove into the water, smoothly and quietly, manipulating the water so she didn't make a big splash. That was all Lynn needed. With a large open water area, Lynn felt quite a bit more free than she did on land. Swimming on her own, even without the help of her water manipulation, she flew through the water, her tail and fins fanning out and pushing her along at high speed. She would rapidly dart by Nailah and Tali, and then when it seemed quiet for a second, Lynn launched out of the water, high into the air. She had bright smile and was laughing the whole time. The sun glistened in all the water that was kicked up from her jumps, and she would land in the water just as smoothly as she had the first time. She was having the time of her life.
---
 
    Allard finally met at the river with the others like he said he would, and he had decided to dress down as well as not to get his clothes wet. He had a heavy loincloth on,one that actually gave him decent coverage as the outer edges of the cloth came about to about half the width of his legs on either side, and his left arm cover on to cover his shadow arm, so he was actually fairly decent despite the lack of other clothes. Allard made his way into the water and relaxed, letting his huge wingspan sprawl out far around him, finally letting them stretch. The water's temperature didn't seem to phase him a bit. [color=9ACD32]"Ah, this is perfect, just what the body needs after a day of travel."[/color]
 
Algimar looked up in confusion as Nailah neared his close vicinity. He briefly saw her undressing. However he looked back to the water. Not averting his eyes to gaze at her. Though her skin was an exotic hue and he was growing curious he declined to act on it. The flowing waters was all he needed to admire. Once Nailah was submerged enough did he gaze distantly at her and take note of what she said. "I believe it is said that the purity of Gaian waters are unmatched. Might want to fill up on as much of it as possible." He said. Whilst taking his own advice and putting down his flask and filling it with the new river water. He put it away on his back left belt behind his cloak. Looking to the sky for a moment he took note of the vastness of it. Not until Talise approached Nailah to join her and a few others did he look at the scene. They swam in the richest of waters now with no enemies in sight and no superiors to tell them what to do. He smiled silently. This alliance group was a bit of a luxury.
 
Tali got extremely mischievous and decided to test out her new use of her basic spell. She hid behind a rock and quietly hummed a small tune, summoning a monk of force that was far, far less visible due to less force used. She sent the female monk under the water over to Nailah and had the "attack" be a light squeeze on the rear. She thought it was a great success, maybe something that could eventually be used for distraction, though teasing her naked companion was the more fun test.
 
Dremmick watched with mild interest as the group socialized in the water. Nailah was, well, being Nailah, and Dremmick rose an eyebrow at her display, to which he got a slight twinge at his heart for a moment as if someone had kicked him but with more discomfort than pain. [color=A52A2A]"Yeah, yeah, I get it,"[/color] he mumbled under his breath to a slightly irked voice inside him. He looked over to the servitor that Tali had brought with her. He studied it for a while, his curiosity piqued. From what little he has seen of it, it seemed to loosely act on its own, even think for itself. He watched to see its movements, how lifelike they were, and if the movements were as smooth as an actual person's would be. He turned back to see Tali in the middle of playing a prank. He wanted to ask her some questions about the servitor, though, he would prefer it if he would be able to catch her while she was alone. He didn't want to ask about it with mixed company.
 
As Nailah submerged her body in the cold water, a wave of pleasure ran through her body. The temperature was indeed just right. Although she was somewhat annoyed that Algimar didn't react at all to her teasing, she continued simply relaxing an leisurely bathing her body in the water.
 
Little by little, the rest of the group arrived, starting by Tali, whom Nailah could feel staring her body as she bathed herself, brushing against her body as she passed nearby.
 
[color=C86050]"Beauty is made to be appreciated, isn't it? I'm not ashamed of my own body, besides..."[/color] Nailah said, with a mischievous expression to Tali.
 
[color=C86050]"Don't you think it would be cruel to deprive others of such sight?"[/color] she continued, with a giggle and a playful wink.
 
Exactly as Nailah had said to Tali, she simply continued to bathe herself without a care in the world, even as the rest of the group arrived in the river. Some, like Shye and Itzel were obviously embarrassed and a bit self-conscious about their own bodies, but other such as Tali didn't mind it at all.
 
Following Lynn's comment about the water being cold, Nailah couldn't help herself but to slowly go towards her to pull her inside the water in one go. Before she could do that, Lynn took courage and dove into the water. As it was expected of a Lassa, that was all she needed. It was almost as if Lynn was flying in the water, darting up and down. Her movements inside the water were agile, flexible and graceful. It was the first time Nailah had seen a Lassa swimming in person. She couldn't help but to be amazed at Lynn's display, even as she jumped out of the water.
Nailah let out a gentle and warm smile as she watched Lynn. Her happiness was evident as she continued swimming, laughing and smiling. It was really refreshing to see her happy like that.
 
Not only Lynn, but Allard also seemed to be satisfied as he got inside the river.
 
[color=C86050]"It's really refreshing, isn't it? The temperature too is just right, nothing like a cold bath to relax."[/color] Nailah said, looking to Allard.
 
It was then that Nailah suddenly felt a gentle squeeze on her behind.
 
[color=C86050]"Hey!"[/color] Nailah said, turning around with a mischievous and flirty expression. Instead of being embarrassed, alarmed or jumping in surprise like most people would, her reaction was calm, almost as if she was ready to provoke and tease whoever was responsible for that. Much to her surprise though, when she turned around she didn't anything at all.
 
While everyone else seemed to relax and started to enjoy themselves in the water, Aeden maintained vigilance. They were in a land strange to him, and it was potentially hostile. He barely flinched as a couple of the group members completely stripped as they entered the water partly because he was focused on threats that could come from around them and partly because of his past experience being a breeder for the Therosi. He would wash himself later when everyone was done having their fun.
 
As he maintained his watch, Aeden did occasionally pass glances over Shye. 
 
Nyph landed at the edge of the water and settled in the shallows. This was his reward to himself for a good day of scouting. At this point he had completely forgotten his urge to compete with Gaston.
 
Garrett observed the rest of the alliance as they made themselves known at the riverside. If anything at all it was enough to make him shake his head, either from the nuisance at having all of them around causing a ruckus and making their positions known to anyone in the area, or the sheer fact it was of course, over the top interaction. In some cases, over the bottom.
 
Guiding acrid by her reins, he'd lead her to the water and leave her there to give her some refreshing Gaia river water. Now that she's distracted with getting her fill of pure liquid, he'd reach into one of the large saddlebags that rested against her flanks, rooting around until he pulled out a set of fabrics, ropes, and metal stakes. The items required to create a tent. He looked along the riverside they decided to enjoy for the perfect spot to place these items; eventually he'd find the perfect plot a small distance away from the water itself, but no real travelling distance at all.
 
He set the items of the tent down for the moment, then heading to a nearby group of trees, checking himself for anything to use to at least remove one and work on it, no such luck. He returned to Acrid, rooting around in the saddlebags once more to find a hatchet, with the hatched now equipped he'd return to the tree he had his eyes set on. He started to chop at the tree, and after a few hearty cleaves, the tree was prepared to tip. He would help it down with a good bash with his shoulder, before he started to strip the bark and branches from it, this entire debacle would strike fear into the nearby birds, mostly because of the fact he is ruining one of their homes and making so much noise.
After some time he'd make two large pillars of wood, a large amount of 2x4 and 1x2 panels, and little wedges to accompany them as a form of archaically engineered nails to slam into wood pieces to hold them together. It was no small feat, but a knight and a hunter must learn to procure their own arrangements outside of a castle or a city, and quickly. He'd carry these wooden creations back to the plot of land he spotted for his tent. With his hatchet, he'd create two divots in the ground equidistant from each other, in the shape of a tight square, a perfect fit for the two pillars he made. Predictably, he'd place the pillars with a strong set of arms into their divots and kept them there with a good amount of displaced soil.
 
Now, he had to set the area of the tent's ground, with his hatchet, alongside the power of his now reclawed bloodclaws, he'd rake at the grass around the two pillars, until he created a lovely looking rectangle of fresh Gaian soil, the perfect place to sleep on, well, once dried from the stored heat of the interior of a tent, of course. At the corners of this rectangle, and edges of the midpoint, Garrett would use the hatchet once more after relieving himself of the bloodclaws he oh so loves quite dearly now, returning to the pile of wood he made a set of six smaller pillars, which he would subsequently place and fasten in their respectful divots.
 
Now came the most relieving part of the construction, the fabric, unrolling the fabrics quickly, he'd take the shorter of the set of fabric, reminiscent of the rectangle he created and threw it over the pillars, adjusting any dropoff until a perceivable roof would be created. This was a gazebo now, not a tent. With the larger of the fabric set, he'd tuck edges under the roof, and thankfully enough there was a length of rope attached to the ends of these fabric pieces to tie together and fasten so as not to let them fall. Garrett did so, until a sagged tent would be created.
The construction was not finished yet however, with great focus and dexterity, Garrett took more lengths of rope, as well as the iron stakes he had set aside previously and began fastening more rope to the end corners and midpoint edges  of the tent, to be fastened to a respective stake. After this trip of itself, he'd trace his steps back toward all the stakes he had set in place, using the hatchet as a hardpoint to slam against the tops of the stakes to drive them into the ground. Little by little, stake after stake, Garrett  turned the saggy tent into what seemed to be a proper, tight-looking tent fit for living in.
 
This construction was still not over just yet, Garrett returned to the pile of wood left over, spacing wood out to turn into one-sided palates or barricades or sparse walls, enough to cover the lengthwise areas of the tent, using his now-trusty hatchet, he would take the wooden wedges he had so expertly crafted and slammed them into the spars of the wood, sealing the fate that they would be used as walls. This process wouldn't take long, a few alignments here and there before a loud slam of a wedge into a spar to a wall, and then, presto. With these barricade-like halfwalls, he'd set them against the tent lengthwise, digging the flat bases that made them stand up under the fabric to create what looked like it belonged, wooden halfwalls against the tent side. Eventually it would look like a perfect looking tent. That was all Garrett wanted at the moment.
 
Garrett stood himself and returned to Acrid and her saddlebags, his bedroll from the top rear of the saddle and heading himself inside the tent, unfurling it and marking a space as his own. He would head back to Acrid one last time to grab the meal Raquel had prepared for him and his journey and went back inside, settling a seat for himself on his bedroll to enjoy what she made for him.
 
Lynn finally started to calm down a bit, now gently floating around the surface of the water on her back around the others, humming contentedly to herself. Her eyes closed and enjoying the feel of the water, her tail working against the current to keep her next to the group. It seemed to clear her mind of the worries she had on the way down here. It wasn't the ocean, but the large body of water was still soothing. That was soon interrupted however when she heard Nailah call out to something.
 
Lynn rolled over in the water and looked to Nailah, though she still wasn't entirely comfortable with Nailah's nudity yet again, she wasn't as embarrassed about it as before.[color=7FFFD4]"Nailah, are you okay?"[/color] she asked, he ears fanned out listening to the things around them as best she could and her eyes alert. What could have possibly made her yell out like that?
 
Shye continued to sit quietly with her feet in the river, watching everyone around the camp. Lynn's swimming, Garrett making a tent, Aeden's glances at her, the last of which she noticed as she was already looking at him and he happened to turn to her, surprising her as she bashfully turned back to the river, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. She then looked at her hands, gauntlets still on and at the ready. She sighed as she started to unbuckle and remove them, setting them next to her along with the greaves. The thought about resting her eyes did cross her mind. The ground she was on was surprisingly fairly comfortable, and she felt like she could sleep as she laid her head down.
 
Itzel eventually settled down enough to let her tail free. Using the wicked looking stinger, she traced small circles in the adjacent water. She stayed absolutely, almost deathly, silent, preferring to be in her own mind. The group seemed nice enough, but she seriously wondered about cohesion. Most seemed to get along well, but some seemed much less concerned with privacy, which threatened her secret.
 
After her little prank, Tali sank beneath the surface, swimming as swiftly as Lynn, betraying her very strong Lassa blood. She explored the area for a bit, though she was abruptly stopped by a venturing tiger fish. It caught her by surprise and tore into her forearm with its teeth. Tali reacted angrily, her hand moving with practiced ease to her clothes to draw a hidden diving knife. She stabbed the fish multiple times until it was obviously dead. She surfaced with the fish in one hand, leaving a dark red cloud in the water behind her. She tossed the fish onto the beach and grabbed some spare cloth from her servitor. The whole way, her arm dripped dark green blood along the ground. With a mixture of her unharmed arm and teeth, she dressed the wound after treating the cloth with some antibiotic agents.
 
Once done with that, she walked back to the fish, glaring at it. "I am going to enjoy cleaning and cooking you." Then, she grabbed her diving knife and began the well practiced process of cleaning her new meal.
 
Once Lynn was able to see that Nailah was fine, as Nailah didn't seem to be worried by whatever startled her, however, alert as she was, she heard a struggle under the water. Tali surprised Lynn when she randomly arose from the water, her arm bleeding a dark green color. [color=7FFFD4]"Tali! Your arm!"[/color] she said in a bit of a panic. Her staff came to her in the water quickly and scooped her up as she  came out of the water. [color=7FFFD4]"Here, I can help, let me see your arm."[/color] Despite the bandages and ointment Tali already put on it, Lynn wanted to make sure it was completely healed without any room for infection as fast as possible.
 
A moment after she felt that strange grope on her behind and the following confusion after she didn't see anyone, she heard Lynn calling her, worried about her reaction.
 
[color=C86050]"Don't worry! I just thought I had felt something in the water."[/color] Nailah said with a giggle as she tried to calm Lynn down.
 
Despite her momentary state of alert, Lynn was calmer than before, apparently she had already spent the excess energy she had stored by swimming.
 
[color=C86050]"It was the first time I saw a Lassa swimming in person! It's quite a spectacle!"[/color] Nailah said, praising Lynn.
 
Talking about Lassa, Tali, who had disappeared under the water finally resurfaced with a big fish on her hands. When Nailah was about to congratulate her for her catch, she saw the angry stare she had towards the fish on her hand and the big wound on her arm, leaving a strange, dark green blood dripping along the ground as she walked.
 
[color=C86050]"Hey! Are you ok?"[/color] Nailah asked, looking to Tali. While she was indeed curious about the strange color her blood had, as it was obvious by her stare, she was also worried as the wound on her arm was considerably big, matching the huge teeth the fish she was carrying had.
 
Almost immediately, Lynn ran towards her to treat her wounds.
 
[color=C86050]"Lucky we have an experienced healer around. That fish really got you, didn't it?"[/color] Nailah said, with a chuckle, amused by Tali's comment when she said she would enjoy cleaning and cooking that fish.
 
Despite her not asking out of education, the unsaid question was as clear as ice in Nailah's cat-like stare as she took quick, discreet glances at Tali's wounded arm.
Walking out of the ox car, Aste walked to the riverside in her glidy steps. A water and glass spear might work very well, but its hard to say when the winter arrives. She washed her face from the cool and bristling river water, but her hands flinched for a moment upon seeing the slight trail of blood from Tailil.  A small injury from a bite wasn’t much to worry about, though. The crisp water had washed her fatigue away, and slight drools nonetheless, ...
 
The mirror like water reflected on her messy hair. Although hidden beneath her linen robes, she hastily combed back into a more presentable form, whilst pulling back the white hood and letting down a long grey hair. Though she had considered it to be messy, her hair had a slight curl, yet it shone elegantly under the bright sun. 
 
Aste tied her hair into her usual braid, as she let her pet Sparrow Valavin out of the cage. Valavin flew along the river. Should there be any of those bandits or even dangerous animals, Valavin has a bird’s eye view on that. But the sight of those bitey fish still made her feel queasy.
 
Algimar could tell the moment blood drew into the waters surface what was happening. One of them was being attacked. He drew a dagger from under his sleeve and listened into the water. It was a ferocious battle but one was victorious. Rising from the river was Talise who had her assailant in her grasp. He sighed. Luckily it went for one of the more capable fighters. Though given her hue of blood was likely a rare breed. Algimar thought on how unusual this 'Alliance' was. Perhaps they were mostly outsiders being used by the kingdoms. He unfortunately could relate to being an outsider.
 
The smell of fresh blood did make him feel a bit in need of some. Though Tali's blood did not seem at all delectable. Pure bloods made for the best feeds. That and seraphim. Algimar took a glance to Aeden to make note of his position. But as far as feeding went everyone may have interest. Not only that but the river was an obstacle from their position. From what he saw of the map their decision was mostly based on finding this resource of water to set up a camp. But how would they move forward?
 
Tali's work was interrupted by Lynn. It was rather welcome and quite adorable to see her all worked up and doting over her injury. She would heal up just fine, but she still took off the bandages to present it to the other Lassa woman. As much as she seemed unperturbed by the wound, Tali's arm looked well chewed and bad enough that short of healing magic, there would be a good few scars from the tearing teeth. It still dripped her blood as she held it up, a sign that without bandages or healing, it would keep bleeding for a long time.
 
"Lynn, I will live, but if you want to help out, feel free. It's cute that you are all about doting over me." Nailah came over and similarly took an interest in her wound, seeming to be more interested in her blood. Tali gave her a smile. "Yeah, it got me well, nothing fatal. I've had much worse in the sea by my house. I've had to deal with a shark twice my size while spear fishing. Also, my blood is naturally green, so don't worry about any curses or poison or anything. I just bleed green rather than red. I even have a cartilage skeleton rather than bone. Faster healing but easier to break." She gave both women a sultry wink. "It also, by my calculations, makes me thrice as flexible compared to the norm."
 
[color=7FFFD4]"Its caused by chlorocruorin in the blood. Unlike some sea life that use it in their plasma, however, it seems Tali has a type that actually acts efficiently as her blood,"[/color] Lynn suddenly explained as she concentrated on a form of water that wrapped around Tali's arm and started to glow a faint light blue color. [color=7FFFD4]"It's rare, and I honestly have only heard about it at the infirmary and some medical accounts."[/color] Lynn looked up to Tali, [color=7FFFD4]"Its better to fix a wound as fast as possible, it leaves less room for any infection to set in."[/color] Lynn looked down and saw the bleeding cease as the wound closed. Any foreign debris and blood was pushed away by the water, forming its own bubble of waste as not to let it rest on the wound. Once it was all closed up, the water was removed from her arm and cast out with the waste. [color=7FFFD4]"There! All better! How does it feel?"[/color] Lynn asked, her bright smile returning now that the arm was healed.
 
Nailah watched both curious regarding Tali's blood and watching Lynn's experienced hands as she treated the big wound on Tali's arm. Just like Tali said, it was indeed cute the way she was worried, but Nailah could also see that Lynn knew very well what she was doing.
 
[color=C86050]"Really? Is it unique to you or maybe your family?"[/color] Nailah asked after Tali explained about not only her blood but her anatomy.
 
[color=C86050]"Regarding your bones, there are other Lassas which also have cartilaginous skeletons, right?"[/color] Nailah asked, looking to both Lynn and Tali, obviously curious about all that.
 
When Tali mentioned being flexible though, Nailah couldn't help but to giggle mischievously at the way she looked at her.
 
[color=C86050]"I would [i]enjoy[/i] putting that statement to the test..."[/color] Nailah said, with a mischievous smirk to Tali.
 
Lynn's explanation about Tali's blood, differently from Tali's was unexpectedly serious and technical. Answering Nailah's previous questions, she said that it was indeed very rare, as even Lynn herself never saw such thing before, having only heard about it.
 
After Lynn finished treating Tali's arm, her bright smile immediately returned to her face, much to Nailah's surprise. If she looked at Nailah at that moment, she would find her staring at Lynn with a smile and a surprised expression.
 
[color=C86050]"That was surprising!"[/color] Nailah said with a giggle.
 
[color=C86050]"I didn't knew you were so serious about your job, it's almost as if you're another person!"[/color] Nailah said, with a gentle smile to Lynn. 
 
Aeden started to turn his attention to Dremmick as he maintained watch. He had a clear idea why most of the group was here, since most of them were representatives sent by each realm. He came to the conclusion that Nailah was here for the hell of it; a reason he did not approve of, but the morale of the group seemed overall greatly improved by her presence.
 
Aeden approached Dremmick with a serious and thoughtful expression. [color=ffd700]"Dremmick, right? Aeden."[/color] He was fairly sure they hadn't truly been introduced since their first meeting was followed up by Dremmick effectively losing consciousness. [color=ffd700]"I am curious. For what reason are you with this Alliance? Don't get me wrong, I am by no means insinuating you are untrusted. I am simply curious."[/color]
 
Dremmick raised an eyebrow at Aeden as he walked up to him. Strange. Of all the people who decided to talk to him, it was the one who seemed repulsed the most by him last time he remembered talking with him. [color=A52A2A]"I have never known someone to ever be just 'simply curious', especially when they state it twice."[/color] he said, his eyes narrowing slightly for a moment before continuing. [color=A52A2A]"Anyway.... I can't quite say it's too complicated a reason really. I got caught up in one of the Aion's raids in Nero and escaped through one of their portals. I helped in a quest to bring back the seer to keep Mirror off my back and then they wanted to recruit me into their Alliance..... I nearly left them with the damn thing, and to be honest I still feel like I have made the wrong decision."[/color]
 
Dremmick stood quiet there for a moment thinking about how much the curse had spread since he joined, sighing before continuing, [color=A52A2A]"I guess what I'm hoping for is that King Vrondi is as helpful as the seer said he is. I have a few loose ends I need to wrap up, and a wrong or two to right, and having Vrondi's resources at my disposal could prove useful."[/color]
 
Aeden chuckled at Dremmick's comment about his repeating curious. [color=ffd700]"You're right. I stand corrected. I am very curious."[/color] He listened carefully as Dremmick gave a quick history of how he got into the Alliance nodding occasionally. [color=ffd700]"It makes sense that Mirror would be vigilant in regards to a blood magic user like yourself. I would be as well, except for what I saw of you the first time we met. From what I've seen our entire trip it seems you have no choice but to constantly use it."[/color]
 
Aeden paused as he considered the final part of what Dremmick said. [color=ffd700]"I hope you are able to right those wrongs. Regret is the greatest killer of men."[/color] Aeden was hardly satisfied with the little information he received, but it was enough for him to have an idea of the man that stood before him. Dremmick did not appear to be someone that would respond well if pressed, so Aeden concluded the rest would have to be earned through time.
 
Dremmick looked to Shye for a moment after Aeden mentioned his first time meeting him. If Dremmick were honest with himself, he was quite guilty of making fast judgments as well. Though its been what has kept him alive, he wondered if all of them were right. It certainly wasn't the case when he went after her. [color=A52A2A]"Sometimes...things don't seem to be as they first appear, hmm? Judging a person on their first appearance is what can keep one safe.... even if it is wrong sometimes."[/color]
 
When Aeden mentioned him senseing his blood magic, Dremmick smirked a bit.[color=A52A2A]"So you can sense when it is being used? Interesting...Now that [i]is[/i] something a bit complicated. I'll just leave it at this. Healing my body only tends to make certain problems....worse. I'll manage, so you should concentrate on the others if they are injured."[/color]
 
[color=7FFFD4]"Oh yes, there are plenty of other Lassa with cartilaginous skeletons. It is just genealogically passed down from your parents like any other trait,"[/color] Lynn explained. [color=7FFFD4]"I got my horn and tail from my father's side of the family, but most of my features from my mother's side of the family, even my Sol blood. Somehow, I got more Sol traits than my mother did, but it is what allows me to heal so efficiently.[/color] When Nailah spoke about how serious she was about her job, Lynn looked a little surprised and considered the statement oddly seriously. [color=7FFFD4]"W-well, I  need to be. I can't afford to mess up or not know enough. Malpractice or lack of knowledge can leave a patient in a worse condition or even dead..... That's why I try to concentrate as much as possible when I heal, it's very important!"[/color]
[color=9ACD32]"And ya do a fine job from what I hear, lass!"[/color] Allard shouted over to them as he climbed out of the river. [color=9ACD32]"I heard ya gone an took over healin tha people outside tha medical center, even operatin' after ya ran low on yur magic. They even called ya a 'walkin' potion' if I remember correctly. But hear me out, I only tell ya this because I'm concerned for ya lass, as are some of the others. Healin' is a fine art, not ta be taken lightly, however, a healer that can't fight in a small group like this can be a target. If ya can't rightly defend yourself, other people can be hurt protectin' ya. And if you fall, that is a lifeline that is severed. Have ya been taught any way of keepin' yerself safe?"[/color] Allard said to her, finally getting around to what has been on some of their minds.
Lynn looked up at Allard, eyes wide that the giant man and her head tilted cutely to the side. [color=7FFFD4]"Defending myself?[/color] Lynn softly repeated as she looked back down. [color=7FFFD4]"I see, you are all worried I may endanger the group if I can't defend myself. That is... reasonable. I know a few things my father taught to me![/color] she said energetically, [color=7FFFD4]"It should be able to fend off some foes I think! But....I, uh....never had to use them in actual combat.."[/color] she admitted sheepishly at the end.
[color=9ACD32]"Hmmmm, sounds promisin',"[/color] Allard said encouragingly, [color=9ACD32]"Maybe you should practice with someone a bit, eh?"[/color] Allard responded, then looking over to Nailah, winking to her.
---
Shye noticed the commotion with Tali in the water and stood up, ready to combat a threat, but it was over quickly. Shye had already pulled a flame to her hand from the fire runes in her gauntlets sitting next to her, but when it seemed like everything was fine and being handled, the flame dissipated. She looked down to her feet and noticed that they were now dirty from being wet and standing in the dirt. He eyes narrowed ever so slightly at this.
 
Daintily, she crouched down to pick up her things and she walked over to the tent and campsite Garrett had put together, smiling warmly to Aeden as she passed by. [color=DC143C]"I will see if I can rest in the tent Sir Garrett placed. If so, I will be in there if anyone is in need of me."[/color] Before entering, she bathed her feet in fire, burning away any debris, effectively cleaning them off, and walked in. She saw that Garrett was already inside, not surprising as he did set the tent up. She wasn't altogether sure what to think of Garrett overall. She had no reason to hate the man, and didn't  resent him like it seemed some of the others did, though the nagging thought of his plan going awry still forced its way into her head. She knew it wasn't really his fault, how could he ad known that would be the outcome? And after all was said and done, her son was still safe and she was as close to freedom as she had ever been.
 
 She gave Garrett a small formal bow, holding her belongings close to her chest, [color=DC143C]"Pardon my intrusion, Sir Garrett, but..., would It be alright If I used this shelter for tonight? I know I'm not an official member of your Alliance quite yet, and if you preferred I stayed outside, I would understand."[/color] she asked
 
Nailah was surprised by Lynn explanation. Surely having a cartilaginous skelleton would make one much more flexible... It surely could lead to interesting situations. Nailah couldn't help but to send Tali a mischievous look after Lynn mentioned that. Even though she didn't say a word, the message on her eyes and expression was clear. She wouldn't forget Tali's comment about being flexible.
 
[color=C86050]"Despite you being a cute, innocent and adorable girl, I can see you are very serious and responsible when the situation requires you to be so."[/color] Nailah said, with a warm smile as she gently caressed Lynn's head. This time, it was clear both to Lynn and to others looking that Nailah was praising her not as a cute, naive little girl or her 'little sister', but as a woman and a professional healer.
 
[color=C86050]"Indeed she is."[/color] Nailah replied as she heard Allard shouting, as he climbed out of the river.
 
[color=C86050]"What about you? Any unfortunate encounter with a bloodthirsty fish?"[/color] Nailah asked with a giggle.
 
[color=C86050]"Lynn might be busy but I wouldn't mind taking care of you."[/color] She finished with a discreet wink and a flirty smirk. At that point, Allard would already be accustomed with Nailah's flirting and regular provocations.
[color=C86050]"Oh! That's right!"[/color] Naliah exclaimed just after Allard asked if Lynn knew how to protect herself.
 
[color=C86050]"You should start taking self-defense classes!"[/color] Nailah said, with an eager and confident expression.
 
[color=C86050]"I could be your sparring partner!"[/color] Nailah said, agreeing with Allard, who had discreetly suggested her to be Lynn's sparring partner.
 
[color=C86050]"If you manage to keep me from getting close to you or touching you, other possible adversaries will be nothing but a joke for you!"[/color] Nailah said, with a wink.
 
[color=C86050]"Before we start though, we should know your proficiency at handling your staff. You can control it with your magic, right? That could be a huge advantage when fighting against experienced opponents due to the weird angles which you could strike them from."[/color] Nailah said, waiting for Lynn's answer.
 
It was incredibly obvious that Nailah was probably more eager and excited to teach Lynn than Lynn herself would probably be to learn though.
 
Tali listened to Nailah and Lynn chatting as she finished prepping the fish for cooking. She set aside the meat and stood up, stretching her body. It seemed Lynn was going to learn some fighting. "When it comes to fighting, I can also help some, though I would say if Lynn seems ill suited for melee, we may want to ask Itzel. She seems to use a bow as her primary weapon, so she may be able to help train for fighting at range."
 
She then teasingly leaned up against Lynn. "If you get all sore and tired, I could always give you a massage and cuddle." She winked at Nailah before continuing. "I'm sure if you are really tired out, Nailah would be happy to help me pamper you even more."
 
Itzel, meanwhile, had since moved to clear some space out in the camp. She then took a breath, focusing and then summoning enough crystal to form into a shelter for Gaston and herself. She shaped it to allow for protection from the elements, though its front was still open as she liked the fresh air. Once the crystal lean-to was finished, Itzel then grabbed a couple thick blankets from Gaston's saddlebags, laying them out to give some comfortable padding and protection from the dirt.[/hider]
 
[hider=The Hydra Attacks]
Whilst the group was tending to their wounded a taste of the fresh blood that flowed in the waters depths was whiffed up by a monstrous entity. One conjured by the imbalances in the natural flow felt through out the land of Gaia by the most sensitive of souls. Indeed this creature was linked to the essence of the earth. Or in this case the waters. The edge of the river began to bubble as a slight warning to those above. One that Algimar who hadn't grown tired of observing the river up close took notice of immediately. He stepped back and placed a hand on his hilt.
 
[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/456470853039947788/585332720813473803/18lvbil48xffzjpg.png[/img]
[i]Three heads twice the size of most down below whose neck reached as high as twenty feet. Their jaws snarled hungrily and though they moved individually their bodies were connected within the waters. Their three tails tangled behind them to appear as more. It was thanks to the rocky terrain that the rivers edge went straight down into the depths of the rivers floor.[/i][/center]
 
Allard turned around when he heard something rise from the water. Immediately he fanned out his wings and drew his heavy blade, presenting himself as a larger target. "Oi! Hop to, we got company!" He shouted to everyone, alerting anyone who wasn't quite yet aware of the creatures presence. Other than Algimar who was already at the shore, Allard was the next closest, waiting for the monster to act.
 
Lynn looked up and saw a large beasf, similar to the water dragons from home, but still quite different from any she had seen before. At first Lynn shrinked back, her ears folding down as she drew her staff close. But then she got an idea. Back home, she would use her singing to calm patients, and as once told she had the gift of the siren's song. When she was young she tried to practice it in hopes of a competing in the queen trial, but as that time passed, she focused on using it to help patients and one time, an out of control domestic sea dragon. Maybe....maybe she could use it now?
 
"I have an idea!" Lynn told Tali and Nailah as she dashed ouf towards the creature. She hopped on her staff and slowly rose up a little in the air. With a deep breath she looked up to the hydra and started to sing. It was a simple old and well known folk song a lassa girl and her lover who was  bound to the land. But it was a slow and calm song, hoping to make the monster more relaxed and calm down from whatever disturbed it.
 
Dremmick stood to the side, a few pieces of paper between his fingers with different symbols written in blood. While he was obviously concerned with this creature, he couldn't help but keep looking back in the direction of whatever battle was going on in the mountains. There was flashing in the distance like any storm to the untrained eye, but he could feel the presense of the powercul souls that gathered, not to mention the tugging at the earth he felt.
 
 Shye was caught off guard by the sudden breaking of the peaceful atmosphere, Nix flying off Gaston and instantly to her, chattering the warning to her. She didn't have time to put her stockings and greaves on, however she did put her gaunlets on and came out of the tent to see what it was, her eyes widening at the sight. She waited for an opening to arise, if they were to fight, she would try her best to help exploit it.
 
The beast's third head on the right snapped down towards Algimar. A roll of his seemingly stiff form evaded the attack. But luckily the beast did not push further. Perhaps it was used to paralyzing its prey with fear. Or it was young and inexperienced with this sort of prey. All the same. It began to reel its head back whilst Lynn began her song and Allard stood before it. The head on the left and in the middle observed Lynn and Allard. The left head began to lull a bit into a trance but the center nudged it back to focus. If one head would be affected another would undo it. That was it for Lynn's ability it seemed. Water welling inside all three of their throats for a torrent of water strong enough to clean the  skin off of flesh was unleashed in a two foot wide spray that stretched towards Allard, Lynn, and Algimar.
Running further away was Algimar's strategy for avoiding the blast. But he dived behind a few old run together boulders by the water. The water rained down from the tip of the stone into a rainbow colored spray onto his head. Getting wet was not in his plans. This adventure was affecting him in ways he didn't expect already. Yet he knew to expect the unexpected. Drawing his blade which was a black one and decent in length, width and sharpness. "Not even a siren that can lull hydra to sleep. Damn Tearians cheaping out on help."
 
As soon as the hydra appeared, Tali sprung back, swiftly taking position away from the fray. She signalled her servitor, who tossed her the ocarina. After catching it, the woman brought it to bear and waited until Lynn made an attempt to lull. As soon as it seemed ineffective, Tali began playing her heroic epic, summoning and archer to loose an arrow at the middle head's eye.
 
Itzel came out from her shelter as soon as commotion began. She spent most of teh time between Lynn moving forward and the beast resisting the song moving into a better position. The watery blast did not take her by surprise given the big tell about it. She burst forward with a strong flap of her wings and fell in front of Lynn, smacking her hand to the ground. A huge wall of crystal sprang up from the ground to intercept the blast going towards her companions. She looked towards her usually lazy companion. "Gaston!"
 
Gaston had perked up as danger arose, but he stayed back to observe the situation. As soon as Itzel called him, he surged forth, flying over to Lynn. Giving her no say in the matter, he deftly grabbed her in his claws and flew her back away from the direct fight. He did carefully set her down, but she had no time to complain or thank him before he was flying back towards the hydra. He flew up higher into the air and began to take occasional nips at the hydra, seeming to probe for a weak point.
 
Nyph immediately hid as soon as the monster revealed itself. It had startled him badly while he relaxed at the water's edge and he really did not have much ability to help in this fight. His stinger would be hard pressed to find a sweet spot, and if it even did his venom would likely barely slow the creature down.
 
Aeden rather than drawing his sword summoned his Blessed Spear. He got into a position where he could maintain relatively equal distance to each of the members of the group while he could also throw his spear at the beast when the first opportunity presented itself. This would be a good test of this Alliance's ability to cooperate in a battle.
 
Despite the small accident Tali had, everything was going fine until that moment. Nailah herself was excited to teach Lynn a bit about self-defense. Not only that but Allard and even Tali offered themselves to help her. Little knew they, that the time for relaxing and resting was about to end...
 
Without any prior warning, bubbles started to come out from the edge of the river, together with a mass of water raising above the water, indicating that something big was moving in the riverbed. Algimar was the first to notice since he was right next to the river. Nailah took a while to notice, but the second the bubbling started to get worse and the creature responsible for that started to make a shadow in the river as it surfaced, Nailah immediately stopped talking and looked to the river.
 
It was then that three heads with huge maws and sharp teeth got out of the water. Their necks were connected to a single body. Together with the three tails behind it, it was impossible to not know what creature was that.
 
[color=C86050]"A Hydra?!"[/color] Nailah asked, surprised and alarmed. Who would have thought that they were bathing carelessly together with a Hydra moments ago. Maybe it was Tali's blood who awoken the creature.
 
Allard shouted to the group alerting everyone who somehow had missed the ruckus caused by the creature. With it's blade in hands and fanning out his wings, he was already ready for battle.
Lynn, in the other hand, appeared to be quite scared initially, but suddenly she said she had an idea, dashing towards the creature, before taking a deep breath and started singing, trying to make the creature sleep.
Unfortunately, the creature showed itself resistant to Lynn's song. Even though one of it's heads was affected a bit, it quickly snapped out of Lynn's song thanks to one of the other heads nudging it to cut the effect Lynn's song had.
At the same time, Algimar was already fighting against the creature, as one of the heads snapped down towards him, forcing him to roll to evade the attack. Not satisfied with only that failed attack, the Hydra prepared itself for a breath attack, water welling up dangerously on each one of the three head's throats.
Fortunately, Itzel and Gaston were already ready for the attack. Itzel flew in front of Lynn, calling forth a wall of crystal to protect her while Gaston grabbed Lynn and took her away from the frontline.
 
[color=C86050]"So guys... Any idea how to deal with this thing...?"[/color] Nailah asked as her claws started to glow due to the high temperature. Nailah had read and heard a few stories about Hydras, but she knew only a little about them.
 
[color=C86050]"I doubt it likes fire though..."[/color] Nailah said to herself, with a smirk as she assumed a low posture. With her feet firmly planted on the ground, her talons digging in the earth below it and her right hand touching the ground for support, Nailah waiting for the perfect moment to attack.
 
Aste sniffed at the sight of the creatures emerging from the wates. Taking a couple of step back from the boundaries of the river, she held her flow of magic, only by a mere trickle. She’ll put her trust on Lynn to Tame that beast. Ready to cast out any spells should things go awry. She wasn’t so sure on what that thing called a Hydra could do, but that attempt of soothing had been foiled by its other head. Aste doubted that such a thing relies on the sense of sight alone. But since Lynn could distract one of the head, that might be considered a certain success. That attack on the group had proven its hostility, but she hoped that no bloodshed could be made from the confrontation, not especially with that ‘old’ apprentice around. 
 
Putting on the Divine Element Ring, Aste churned out the flows of Fire and Light. The flows of Aste magic converged into a neatly casted shield of invisible fire. Layers and Layers she strengthens the shield that she casted out, to fend off against any further attacks from the Hydra. Holding off the cast to maintain that shield of magic, Aste focused to work on the next spell, preparing the first trails of Light.
 
With Algimar firmly hiding behind cover the hydra's head refocused on where the other two were having a troublesome time. The Hydras prey, so it seemed, was tougher than a few deadly cannons of water it sprayed could perish. But just as it did the middle head had an arrow lodged into its face below its eye. However the arrow merely scraped its scales and left hardly a cut. Seething with a curious yet anxious feeling it snarled out at Talise who attacked it for its pressurized water was a bit off aim when going for Allard. Now the gryphon was flying about one of its heads and neck. Visibly irritated the hydra's heads would snap at the gryphon with its fangs bared. It seemed to believe it would be enough to deter the gryphon long enough, if not it might have to actually try to kill it.
 
Dremmick moved up just behind the front line. He looked over the ones fighting before he pulled out a paper from his pack. It was one of the ones that he bought from the shop, an emblem drawn in dragon blood. He nodded as he took a stance. [color=A52A2A]"ITZEL!"[/color] he shouted out to her, [color=A52A2A]"Cover me with a wall until I give the word to drop it, everyone else, be ready to back off the hydra on my command!"[/color] Dremmicks normally hazel eyes turned a bit more yellow and started glowing from under his hood as he tapped into his power. He held up his cursed arm with the paper stuck to his palm as he aimed it towards the beast. He widened his stance and braced his arm with his left hand. Blood fell from his bandaged arm and rose around the page, making an intricately designed ring around it. the blood ring started to glow and resonate with the paper, spinning as it gained power. His clothes started to dance as if in the wind, pushing his hood back. Suddenly, little jolts of lightning started to surge from the page and around Dremmick, steadily becoming stronger as it arced around him and to the ground as well. His plan, instead of casting an instant lightning spell from the page, he was pouring more of his own energy into the attack as well as some of his own blood, as he was dragon blooded as well, so he could amplify the spell into a much stronger form. However, this would require a charge time and leave him vulnerable. If he had to move out of it at this point, he would first have to discharge what he had, so he wanted to make sure he made a shot that was worth it. [color=A52A2A]"Just be ready if this isn't enough to take it down"[/color]
---
Allard dashed forward, using his wings to propel him under the attack instead of retreating back. He heard what  Dremmick said, but didn't respond. Right now, he had a hydra's attention to keep. Speaking his incantation, his right arm that was holding his weapon glowed a yellow, putting full power in his arm, and with his shadow arm being able to copy his right arm's ability, it too started to faintly glow from under the arm wrap. Keeping his head on a swivel for the other heads, he moved in to engae the one that shot at him on the right. Allard would look to plung the sword in a focust thrust into it's neck at the base, aiming to punch through the tough hide with the blade angled up toward the head, then, he would attempt to move his power to his wings to thrust himself into the air and pull the sword up with the neck, to fillet the long neck wide open.
---
Lynn saw the blast of water being readied at her, her ears drooping in terror as she realized what was going to happen. The jet of water would be too strong for her to control, and she wouldn't make it. Just as she had this thought however, Itzel landed between her and created a crystal wall that took the blast before them, spraying water about everywhere. Before Lynn could say anything however, she was pulled away by Gaston and set outside of direct conflict. She was speechless as she sat there, thinking about what could have happened. She was a little in shock, and now the fear started to trickle in amongst the adrenaline. She had never been in combat and even in pearl she saw very little of what was going on. Lynn looked about seeing everyone fighting. She had to do something but what? Just sit around and wait for someone to be injured? Lynn was worried for her companions and new friends, but she wasn't sure what she could do to help. She then saw Dremmick, charging an attack, and got an idea. She moved back into the fray, gliding quickly to Dremmick. 
 
[color=7FFFD4]"Here I can help you,"[/color] Lynn stated, a bubble of water coming from her water jar and changing color to a glowing blue.
 
[color=A52A2A]"A bit busy,"[/color] Dremmick said through gritting teeth though focused on the spell in front of him. [color=A52A2A]"What is it."[/color](edited)
[color=7FFFD4]"Drink this it will improve your concentration, and thus your magic ability. Don't worry, it won't heal you..."[/color] she said the last part more a a plea to convince him, remembering what he said in Pearl about not healing him. [color=7FFFD4]"I want to help... but I don't know how else I can right now..."[/color]
 
Dremmick sat for a moment, briefly shifting his eyes only to look to her and then back to his task. [color=A52A2A]"Alright, we'll give it a shot."[/color] He wasn't overly thrilled with the idea, but it would be interesting if it worked. Definitely something to note. The idea that a healer would want to be involved on the front somewhat amused him. He smirked a bit, [color=A52A2A]"Hit me."[/color] His mouth slightly opened as Lynn fed the enchanted water to him. Nearly instantly, more bolts of electricity poured out from his arm and the page, an arc barely passing by Lynn causing her to yelp. [color=A52A2A]"Interesting... Fall back, I'll be ready soon..."[/color]
 
Lynn did was she was told and quickly flew back out of the combat zone, watching everyone to make sure they were alright.
Shye, like Nailah, took a position on the oposite flank of her and waited for an opening. She didn't have her greaves, so her mobility was a little more limited than normal, yet not her agility. If she noticed someone falling or about to be hit where they couldn't defend, she would try to move in to intercept with a heat blast. her gauntlet claws were already glowing and ready, she was carful not to let the m touch the ground to start a fire.
 
The Hydra attacking Allard was easily able to amp up the pressure and strike the stone wall descendant. This would slow Allard's already amply low pace. Enough so another head, unoccupied now by gushing water towards Lynn's and Itzel's direction could stop its spitting and reach down with a slide across the ground to bite Allard from his side and hold him in its mouth sideways. If successful it would raise its head back up whilst holding the Descendant in its jaws.
The third head however used a whip of its tail which were raised up higher than the heads just further behind. This allowed it to observe the entire enemy group and hiss in a wild determined snarl at their bared weapons and flaring souls.
 
Tali visibly frowned when her attack did nothing, so she moved in closer, staying out of reach but within her next spell's range. She struck a rather...suggestive pose before singing an enticingly sweet melody. Her magic targeted the hydra heads, trying to worm into their minds and make them mistake each other for enemies, more specifically, Tali.
 
Itzel heard Dremmick and flew over to him. Rather than creat another wall, she instead took position in front of him, shield up. Making another wall would cost her energy she was not apt to use at the moment.
 
Gaston, upon having some attacks targetting him, took some evasive flight. He obviously hit a nerve, so he took the chance to dive into their blind spot and go for an attack with his claws along the spine of the hydra.
 
The Hydra was definitely a dangerous opponent, but so far the group was managing to deal with it without any incidents. Despite it's strong attacks, Aste and Itzel were using their magic to block it's attacks while Itzel and Algimar were doing the best they could to distract and try to wound the beast.
 
Despite the shock due to the Hydra's attack, Lynn also seemed to be ok as she hurried towards Dremmick, using her magic to help him as he continued blocking the Hydra's attack. Even from a distance, Nailah could feel Lynn's desire to help after seeing everyone giving their best.
 
In a coordinated effort between Dremmick, Itzel and thanks to Lynn's magic boosting the former's power, Dremmick prepared a fearsome blow with his cursed arm while Itzel covered him until the spell was ready. His eyes started glowing with an intense yellow light as his arm started crackling with electricity, getting stronger by the second as he continued charging his attack.
 
Meanwhile, Allard was doing it's best to keep the Hydra's attention focused into him, in order to buy the others time to prepare their attacks. As he dashed towards the creature, using his shadow arm in conjunction with his other skills to further strengthen his attack . Both of his arms started glowing yellow as he tried to plunge the sword on one of the Hydra's necks. Unfortunately, the Hydra saw his advance and was ready to retaliate as a second head, the one who was spitting water towards Lynn and Itzel stopped and prepared to lunge towards him with it's powerful jaws.(edited)
Nailah would have done something until now, but the hardest part of that fight was that all three heads were working together, two attacked while the third one kept watching the battlefield, alert to any possible 'sneak' attack. It was then that Nailah heard an enticingly sweet song coming from Tali. Assuming a suggestive pose, which almost distracted Nailah instead of the Hydra, she started singing, using her magic in an attempt to distract the heads. Judging by what happened earlier with Lynn, even if her magic wasn't able to distract the heads for too long, it would be enough to give Nailah the brief second she needed to strike.
 
The second Tali started Singing, Nailah dashed forwards, with the same ridiculous burst of speed and agility she had shown some times before. With agile and precise movements, she went from the backline to the frontline in a mere instant, using her allies bodies to interrupt the line of sight between her and the hydra. Finally reaching the frontline, she arrived in the very second that one of the Hydra's heads was sliding across the ground to bite Allard. Suddenly appearing from behind Allard's large frame, she would use her claws, which were hot due to her fire magic to dilacerate one of it's eyes.
If successful, Nailah would use the momentum from her speed and when her claws struck the hydra's skull behind it's eye, she would grasp it firmly, throwing herself upwards and standing on top of it's head. After such a strike to it's eye, the obvious reaction for the Hydra was for it to immediately stop it's attack and flinch due to the pain, pulling it's head back, away from where Allard was. On that moment, Nailah would make a clone appear besides her and use the head's movement to send it jumping towards the third head, which was overseeing the battlefield. With the clone being merely a feint, she would send it jumping for the left eye, followed by her jumping almost immediately after, to the right, using her own clone to break the line of sight with the third head, guaranteeing a successful strike. After that, she would use her claws as she jumped down, plunging them into the Hydra's neck in order to get her down to the ground safely while leaving deep claw marks on it's neck.
 
Talise chaotic discord was effective in one thing. Annoying the large scaled beast. Talise was not the size of a single head of the Hydra. They would see each other begin to grow deformed or misshapen. But it was more of a mildly disorienting spell. One clearly not used on a creature of this magnitude.  With slight disorientation it whipped Gaston with its tail as it went for a clawed strike. The third head to the groups right remained vigilant, making sure to cover the others blind spots. Especially given that all of the Hydra's prey was more visibly identifiable. But soon even the musical chaotic murmurs of Talise's soul would be shaken off by serpent.
While Nailah was fast the notorious third head watched her descent from the back rows to the front. Within it's possible intelligence it multitasked thwarting Gaston with tail whips and reacting to Nailah. Before she could reach Allard a gush of water was sprayed to keep her at bay. Though it was a simple spit it shot with enough force to blow a small crater into the ground it struck when Nailah inevitably avoided it. Though it would still slow or misalign her direction to save Allard.
 
As the beast tried to bite down on Allard, he held against it at first with his arms, though he was able to push against it alright, it seemed his ten foot arm span wouldn't be enough to convince the hydra to drop him. [color=9ACD32]"I'll have ya know, hydra, that I don't plan on becomein' part of ya dinner."[/color] His wings then pushed against the sides to relieve his arms, at least, until they started to glow with his power. The pushed against the jaws of the beast, situating themselves. Once set Allard burst his wings outward with all his strength, aiming to break open the hydra's jaw, making its bite worthless. If successful this would drop him to the ground in an unstable glide now that there would be a few holes in his wings.
 
Shye stayed by the others who weren't in direct contact, ready to move in should the hydra pick a new target. Her stance was low and ready to sprint, her hands balled into fists with built up energy, the telltale waves of heat pouring from them and distorting their image.
 
Lynn remained at the edge of the fight, hoping nobody would get hurt, holding onto her staff in case she needed to dart in and grab someone.
 
Dremmick could feel the spell reach its charge limit, lightning arcing all around his arm. [color=A52A2A]"Alright, clear away from  it!"[/color] he shouted out to the others. Waiting for Allard and the others to move out of the way Dremmick would then change his stance. He dragged his left foot around in a semi circle and stopped it in front of him. He drew his right arm back and with a step forward with his right foot, a twist of his body and  a forward open palmed thrust of his right hand the spell would fire. The spell paper in the middle of Dremmick's blood crest would shred to pieces and disintegrate as numerous bolts of lightning erupted out from Dremmick's palm to the hydra.
 
With its teeth sunk into the Gaians back and front the tough hide of the Oro would be thoroughly tested. If not for Allards shadowskill he would find himself unable to best this beasts strength. A legendary feat observed by all. But not one that left him unscathed. For his body would be full of holes from the various spears that were the hydras teeth. It was the breaking of said teeth that made the hydra drop Allard not his resistance. It may have been the Hydras luck as well that it dropped Allard when it did. For it may very well have a broken jaw. It snarled in pain as it's teeth were a few dozen short. A handful lodged into Allards wings.
The imperfect casting and amplification of the chaotic spell unleashed by the cursed descendant arched in various directions. Aimed to a large target but as an arch of lightning hitting the waters behind the beast clearly showed. It was not an attack able to be aimed properly by the caster. A gamble even, one that would cost the caster much of their soul. Yet the successful strikes resulted in a terrible roar from the beast. One that was evoked by the smoking wounds it suffered across it's left heads neck. The effect coursing through the entire Hydra. It sunk within a few seconds. Not dead, but not in the mood to hunt. Or so it seemed as the seconds went by without the creature so much as leaving a trail of bubbles on the surface.
Algimar emerged from behind the still dripping wet stone boulder he narrowly used as cover from the Hydra's onslaught. Only by a incredibly lethal chaotic spell of lightning did the beast meet its match. To think someone in their ranks had such destructive abilities. He looked at Dremmick from afar. Then to the rest of the group. Allard in particular. Was he mad? Rushing in like that and from the looks of it narrowly escaping without severe wounds. Despite his Oro hide the Hydra's bite was still incredible. It was up to the healers now to mend him. This was all too conveniently terrible, Algimar thought to himself. Like a distraction from something worse. He stared at the high up mountains they walked past earlier. The clouds were white now but remained whirling around its edge as if covering something. By the sound of it, a storm, or an epic battle. Whichever it was Algimar could feel the winds change because of it. The Hydra was only lurking and emerged for its love of storms. Storms that toppled ships. The Nuxta attacks were getting weaker by the night, yet were still happening. During the midst of their attempts to defeat him was he making moves to annihilate them all? Only now did Algimar feel the imbalance of the world may haunt their every moment of rest out here in the wilds. Returning to Nero couldn't come sooner for him. [color=black]"Well then... I suppose we don't have to worry about anything else attacking us from these waters... Unless something worse lays below..."[/color] Fear was never Algimar strong suite. So he watched the others reactions. Just what were their plans moving forward from here? He did not want to spread fear, but time seemed to be growing limited.
 
Focusing on her spells, Aste took notice of the spell that was casted by Taril. The spell had certainly worked well enough for the Hydra. On the second part, that spell of Aste was about to complete, a messy one, but still, since that hydra had been unnerved a bit for that spell. She was glad that the hydra did not attack her, the shields of invisible fire isn’t really a shield at all, but its just a construct of walled fire. And fire and water of the Hydra do not mix very well.
 
Reaching to her Magical source, Aste completes her cast of Illusion, right about to put that Hydra under another of the effects.
 
And that was when the Hydra got defeated,  by some foul magic of the other members of the alliance. But perhaps she should work more on her casting speed, once in a while at least. 
 
But that spell of Illusion might not be for waste. Aste altered the use few flows of her light magic, before working to simply recast her illusion. The stretch of river faded, the water were clearer than it used to be.  Anything in the river bed could be sighted from the top. She’d need to confirm, should the Hydra still alive or dead, or escaped.
 
Just as Nailah was trying to get nearby Allard though, the Hydra's third head saw her when she began moving herself and let out a gush of water in order to keep her away. Not expecting the third head to notice her movements Nailah had no time to adjust her path and was forced to stop her advance in order to not be hit by the water gush.
 
Thanks to the third head stopping Nailah, she wasn't able to save Allard from the Hydra's back as she could only look as the Hydra sunk it's teeth on his hardened Oro skin. Fortunately, Allard also had a few surprised for the Hydra as he burst his wings outward to forcefully open the Hydra's mouth, breaking a good deal of the spears that were the Hydra's teeth in the process.. Even though trying something like that would be considered nothing but madness or maybe desperation to most, Allard was able to clearly match the Hydra's strength, a remarkable feat which most people couldn't even think of doing. 
 
Despite Allard's surprising demonstration of power, he wasn't left unscathed. Even though he succeeded in breaking free of the Hydra's maws, which was clear by the dozen of holes on his body and the few broken Hydra teeth, which were still stuck on his body.
 
Thanks to Allard distracting the Hydra though, Dremmick had finally finished casting his skill. It wasn't needed much to see that it was an extremely dangerous skill to use. Both to the user himself and to those who were nearby, be them a target or not due to the sheer power and the chaotic nature of the spell, making it nearly impossible to aim accurately. 
Even though Dremmick's technique missed the target, hitting the water nearby the Hydra, it's sheer power was enough to affect the creature to some extent. Wounded and having clearly underestimated the party, the Hydra submerged, going away for now.
With that situation dealt with, Algimar, who was pinned behind a rock almost the entire time due to the Hydra's powerful attack, came from behind the boulder, still dripping wet as he looked to the rest of the party, with words that could be interpreted as both good news and bad omens.
 
[color=C86050]"I can't really say if we're either really lucky or really unlucky..."[/color] Nailah said, rolling her eyes with an audible sigh.
 
[color=C86050]"It would be nice if we could have a nice bath and relax a little without a monster appearing soon after."[/color] she continued with a smirk.
 
[color=C86050]"That said, not everyone got out unscathed of this little 'encounter'..."[/color] Nailah said again, looking to Allard with sharp eyes that looked almost like daggers.
 
[color=C86050]"You may be big and obviously strong, but you're not immortal... Can you try at least once to preserve yourself instead of rushing in head first?"[/color] Nailah said, scolding Allard as she reached to one of the Hydra's teeth, pulling it out with a precise and agile, but definitely not delicate, movement.
 
[color=C86050]"By the Goddess... Any healer who travels with you is certain to have a lot of work..."[/color] Nailah said as she examined the Hydra's teeth for a while before turning back to Allard.
 
[color=C86050]"Why don't we give Lynn some rest? Now... where do we start... We do have to close and cauterize the wound first, don't we?"[/color] she said, with a smile that did little to hide her anger as she raised her claws to Allard, still glowing hot.[/hider]