Fer's perception of the winged warrior rose after her passionate speech. There was no doubt in his mind that it came from her experiences as a holy warrior and defender of the weak. The young Shield hero had seen battle and death too and knew that no one spoke like that if they had not suffered defeat as much as victory. Marcino must have struck a cord and he could not faulth her for wanting to prove the gladiator wrong. He himself had not spoke against the older adventurer's words only because he knew his limitations and he knew he needed his help. Auriel however, had already proven herself in battle. At least more battle than he or Cole had seen against creatures he could not even imagine with weapons that brought you close and personal into their space.  

He placed a supportive hand on her shoulder and looked into her eyes. [color=003471]"Auriel, we depend on you as much if not more as we depend on Marcino. You are absolutely right that knowledge of a weapon comes from more than just their use in battle."[/color] His mind took him to the many times he had to clean his side arm and clean the rifles of older men who felt it was the younger lad's place to do their dirty work. He had come to familiarize himself with the weapons to such extent that he could build up or tear one down in his sleep. This knowledge had saved him plenty of times during malfunctions where others had been left weaponless and as such, sitting ducks in a very dangerous time. 

His hand was still on her shoulder an ever so slightly squeezed as he spoke.[color=003471] "For what it's worth, I have no doubt of your abilities and just as Marcino explained..."[/color] His tone took on a semblance of the older mans tone [color=003471]"...I am completely useless in offense."[/color] He turned to the older man.

[color=003471]"Marcino, is hunting these balloon something that can be done right now? If so, I will gladly go with Cole to get as much practice as we can in."[/color] He then turned to Auriel. [color=003471]"No offense Auriel but you do not seem to be at your full potential. However, I am not one to order around so if you wish to also come with us I suggest you observe how me and Cole fight and provide pointers. I am sure if we need rescuing Marcino will not let us die such lowly a death. Either way, we will rely on your knowledge of our weapons. I am more than glad to spend any down time learning the history of this world, this weapon a..and yours."[/color] He remembered his hand was still on her shoulder and flushed a bit as he hurriedly took it off. He wondered how easily it had been to talk to her. None in his previous life had even seen him show emotion. He cleared his throat and nodded towards Cole. [color=003471]"If you don't mind Cole, I will have to lean on your willingness to be the point man and I will provide support as much as I can. I am ready when you are."[/color]

He turned to Marcino again.[color=003471] "Please lead on..."[/color]