[color=darkgray][center][IMG]https://i.imgur.com/KcJygoU.png[/IMG][/center][hr][B][COLOR=GOLD]Location:[/color][/b] The Telescope & Strategy Room
[b][color=gold]Interactions:[/color][/b] Poppy, Cerise, Akaia
[b][color=gold]Mentions:[/color][/b][hr]

Erik wore the warmest of smiles watching Lysandra wheel herself from the Telescope & Strategy Room. He had always enjoyed her company and her witty remarks but it was not the only thing keeping his attitude so bright at the moment. It was the simple fact that he felt so fortunate to have this group… the Commune. It had taken years to get here, and it was never easy even if he made it seem that way. Despite his happy demeanor, however, a hint of sadness shone through. Small, but present, and he could feel it. Encroaching on him. Erik suddenly dug into his pocket for his wallet. 

Mahogany brown, dingy, and something no one ever used anymore. It’s not like one could fit blood beads or any other sustainable resource within its confines. Once he opened the leather accessory in his hands he grabbed a single piece of folded paper that he forced to fit snugly into one of the card-pouches. He took a step towards the table where the map lay and set his wallet down so he could carefully manipulate the slip without unintentionally tarnishing it in any way. He unfolded the worn piece of paper, revealing the short neatly written message contained. 

[sub][center][i][color=white]Keep your heart[/color][/i][/center][/sub]

Erik looked upon the three words for a brief moment before giving a slight nod towards it. [color=gold][i]Always.[/i][/color] With a shallow yet deliberate breath, Erik buried the hint of sadness down as deep as he could manage before he couldn’t feel it any longer. Then just like that, he returned the slip to his wallet as carefully as he removed it.

[color=gold]“I have to get ready or they might leave me behind… but first!”[/color] He spoke aloud. Erik started for the doorway, his signature smile again worn comfortably and confidently as he ventured down the long hall of the Crow’s Nest. His eyes were focused forward as he had no reason to peek into each room he passed. Normally, Erik would, but he didn’t have enough time. His feet would soon come to a halt as he stood square in front of the Memorial of the Fallen.

[color=gold]“Hey old friends.”[/color] He greeted with the grandest smile he could muster. [color=gold]“Just wanted to check in with you before we head on another mission. Shouldn’t be gone for too long.”[/color] He shrugged nonchalantly. [color=gold]“We’re just retrieving some samples from a dying mistle in the Ruined City, but you should have seen how excited everyone was when I briefed it. It reminded me of old times…”[/color] He paused, but his bright demeanor did not wane as it had before. [color=gold]“Anyway, I have to get myself ready to go! And of course, I’ll bring a souvenir back.”[/color] He promised before he strolled around the garden towards his room.

Just before he could reach his doorway, he spotted Poppy, Akaia, and Cerise in the medical area. Erik was aware of Poppy’s desire for that particular area to be kept peaceful and calm but he viewed his excitement as uplifting, not disturbing. 

[color=gold]“Great job taking care of Akaia, Pops! And excellent smile! 8 out of 10! Keep it up!”[/color] Erik’s delight was carried by his excited tone before he entered his room to grab a few items he could pocket. He grabbed his gas mask that sat at the edge of his desk and looked around the room for his bow. He was always just leaving propped up somewhere. [color=gold][i]The hammock![/i][/color] He remembered quickly setting it down there after returning from the meeting with the Provisional Government. His swords were over in the armory where he’d head next, but he made the effort to stop in the medical area.

[color=gold]“Hey you three! Or wait, it’s five! Licorice and Laplace!”[/color] He acknowledged the two crows, giving each one a single nod before his gaze shifted to Akaia. [color=gold]“Glad to have you back. Think you’re up to go out again?”[/color]

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