[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/acCZCUg.png[/img][hr]Jocasta [@Force and Fury], Yalen [@pantothenic], Ysilla [@Pirouette], Zarina [@YummyYummy], Kaspar [@Wolfieh], various NPCs.[hr][b][color=7ea7d8]Event:[/color][/b] Hugo's task [b]|[/b] [b][color=7ea7d8]Location:[/color][/b] Torragonese High Desert.[hr][hr][/center]
[center][youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHGmmlXjA5c[/youtube][/center]

[hr][color=7ea7d8][b]Part:[/b][/color] Prior to Meeting Point [b]|[/b] [color=7ea7d8][b]Collab:[/b][/color] Kaspar [@Wolfieh][hr][hider=Ayla x Kasper]
Ayla sighs as she makes her way out of the aqueduct. Giving herself a shake-down, a good ol’ wiggle as she closes her eyes and thinks to herself. [color=7ea7d8]“Box breathing, Ayla”[/color]. She imagines the shape of a box, and starts to draw it with her mind. As she does one side, she breathes in for 4 seconds then as she draws the other, she exhales for 4 seconds, with the 3rd side repeating as with the first side, then exhaling as the box completes, repeating itself. As she composes herself, she looks up to notice Kaspar still standing there, the poor boy being quieter than normal this morning as he doesn’t have his graphene to hand. [color=7ea7d8]“Imagined you would have been drawing the naranja tree.”[/color], smiling warmly towards him, [color=7ea7d8]“It represents the beating heart of this refuge”[/color]. 

Kaspar startles, eyes flickering to Ayla before glancing over his shoulder at the tree in question. The reminder stings like the juice on the abrasion, and he shakes his head to clear it. [color=#B8041A]“I… You’re probably right. It’s… beautiful,”[/color] he stammered quietly, glancing down to the floor. He was still shaken, but noticed that Ayla seemed to be, too, and tried to push his own distress aside for his friend. [color=#B8041A]“ Are you alright, Ayla?”[/color] he asked, voice soft as crimson eyes returned to her face, tracing it for signs of the upset that had been there a moment ago.

Ayla simply smiles warmly towards him, moving up along the back of Kaspar and wrapping her arms around him, leaning into his shoulder as if it was a pillow. [color=7ea7d8]“Things were only temporarily heated, they will recover. You do seem less like yourself than normal, talk to me.”[/color] She peers up towards Kaspar with those sapphire blue eyes of hers, [color=7ea7d8]“... or, if you would not like to talk, we can find a nice place to sit for a while.”[/color] She ponders upon the different possibilities, though her thoughts dwell on somewhere quieter. [color=7ea7d8]“Top of the refuge might give us a good view”[/color].

He jumped at the contact, stiffening for a moment before hesitantly curling his arms around the smaller girl. As his palms pressed into her back, the nightmare from the night before surged up his throat and he bit back a gasp, pulling his hands away. [color=#B8041A]“I…”[/color] He swallowed hard, mind grasping for some sort of reasoning. [color=#B8041A][i]I can’t? I… won’t[/i]?[/color] The two words jumbled in his head, until finally the boy sighed, eyes drifting closed as he settled for, [color=#B8041A]“I think a good view might be nice. For both of us”[/color]

Ayla tugs upon Kaspar’s hand as she tries to lead him towards the battlements, needing to ask a few questions of the friendly staff to help guide them into the right direction and end up reaching their goal as they look out towards the sands, the same position the tethered children were eagerly looking at them from when they first arrived at the Refuge. Other than the passes of the sentry guard, they were up here alone. [color=7ea7d8]“Never thought to be seeing Torragon, origem - home, again so soon”[/color], her eyes looking out along the stretches of desert. She was raised in Varrashasta, a vastly different sight as she gazed upon the seas of water, but for unknown reasons, gazing upon the seas of sand gave her some comfort. [color=7ea7d8]“Do they have deserts where you are from? First time seeing one myself”[/color].

Kaspar’s crimson eyes scanned the expanse of sand as he settled on the stone, breathing easier so far away from others. [color=#B8041A]“Helbahn is all forests and rivers. I’ve never seen so much sand in one place, or felt so much heat without fire,”[/color] he mused quietly, turning to glance at the girl beside him. Kerremand had not had deserts either, so he was fortunate to not need to lie about his homeland. [color=#B8041A]“I think I prefer the cold, in truth. Though Ersand’Enise is not so bad, either.”[/color]

She simply nods as she looks out to the expanse, [color=7ea7d8]“Often stay in the shade, red doesn’t suit my complexion. Unable to wear it well unlike others around here”[/color]. She gives a cheeky smile towards Kaspar, putting emphasis on who she was addressing with that statement. [color=7ea7d8]“Did you choose to join the Academy? Many appear to have counted their blessings when they were admitted”[/color].

He blushed lightly at Ayla’s compliment on his wardrobe, meeting her cheeky grin with a small one of his own. [color=#B8041A]“It goes well with my eyes, or so I’ve heard,”[/color] he muttered, hand rubbing at the back of his neck. He waited a moment, thinking about her question before offering any response. [color=#B8041A]“I am honored to have been accepted to Ersand’Enise. It was, in part, a desire of mine—I would need to study the Gift somewhere, and this is the best academy available. But my parents sought this, too, for me. Not so many places teach Binding, and my… aptitudes make me poorly suited for most other schools of magic. For my learning, and my control, the options were limited.”[/color] Kaspar turned to his friend, tilting his head. [color=#B8041A]“And what of you? Did you choose this?”[/color]

Ayla tilts her head as she gives Kaspar a sarcastic grin, [color=7ea7d8]“Apparently the academy was too dangerous for my brother to attend, where did my parents get that idea from?”[/color]. After the pause as she awaits Kaspar’s reaction, the current situation hangs over them very prominently as she gives a laugh. [color=7ea7d8]“My brother Jorge was chosen to attend. He has been groomed as the heir of House Arslan since birth. Every waking moment is spent on his, our, success. In comparison, the disposable child, no one has expected greatness, is pampered like the family's pet cat and allowed to follow any desires”[/color], she stretches out towards the sun in a way Kaspar may associate with a feline familiar, [color=7ea7d8]“Not going to stop now, my path will be my own”[/color]. She moves her hand over Kaspar’s, squeezing upon it, [color=7ea7d8]“Now make your path your own as well. Be who you want to be, not what others tell you to be. That is the only choice we have in this life”[/color]. 

He listened quietly to her explanation, smiling in amusement at the way her stretching evoked imagery of the comparison she had just made. As an only child, Kaspar knew that no duties could be pushed off on another. What he lacked now in the skill to inherit the Elstrøm name and estate, he would need to work all that harder to make up for when his schooling was finished. Then her hand covered his own, squeezing it as if to emphasise her point, and he felt something choking up in his chest. [color=#B8041A][i]If only it were so easy. I don’t know who I would choose to be, if someone gave me the chance,[/i][/color] he thought, something sad and bitter coiling over his heart. He shut his eyes, inhaling sharply through his nose to push down the feelings, focusing on his job and the warmth of Ayla’s hand against his.

She simply continues to squeeze upon that hand, allowing him to share what he wants to, [color=7ea7d8]“Then that is where you start. Without any barriers, imagine what an ideal day in your life would look like. Once you have that image in your mind, come and see me again. Then we will take a look together at how we can make that possible.”[/color] She gives him a wink as she pats upon the hand, gesturing to the gathering people below them. [color=7ea7d8]“We should look at joining them soon”[/color].[/hider]
[hr][color=7ea7d8][b]Part:[/b][/color] Rest at the Ruins [b]|[/b] [color=7ea7d8][b]Collab:[/b][/color] Yalen [@pantothenic][hr][hider=Ayla x Yalen]
Ayla finds herself seated next to Yalen. It has been a while and they still haven’t spoken much together unlike the others in their class. She summarises that must be part of his personality, keeping his nose within his books and scriptures, but now far away from these distractions uses the opportunity to speak. [color=7ea7d8]“Where did you disappear to with Rita?”[/color], she smiles warmly as she looks over towards him.

Yalen smiled fondly at the mention of his new friend. [color=#FD5E53]”Nowhere in particular. I got dragged into a little playdate at the pool. Did I miss something important?“[/color]

She pauses for a moment, as there were a few revelations after his departure, but continues with the small talk. [color=7ea7d8]“Playdate? Guess you’re what they call a little sister type.”[/color], she grins widely, unable to resist teasing the boy as she moves to grab upon his hand, [color=7ea7d8]“You needed a good distraction, you have been very preoccupied lately. First with the Halassa, and then with Breakfast…”[/color].

[color=#FD5E53]”You and your friends really remind me of my big sister. You love to tease people.“[/color] Yalen made a face at her. [color=#FD5E53]”Ha ha, not that I mind. Forgive my odd behavior today. I just had a bad dream. I’m fine now.“ Though his face betrayed nothing, his grip around Ayla’s hand was a bit tighter.[/color]

[color=7ea7d8]“Good, we need to be al máximo today.”[/color], she looks down towards the hand, feeling it squeeze tighter upon her own in return. [color=7ea7d8]“Tell me more about your big sister, what is she like?”[/color].

Yalen looked up at the dark ceiling, suddenly lost in thought. [color=#FD5E53]”Colette? Colette is… so many things. Smart. Confident. Strong as an ox too. When I was brought to the orphanage she was the oldest one there. I could spend all day talking about her, but right now I can tell you that she has recently become a Sister of the Unconquered Sun.“[/color]

Ayla does consider things for a moment as she starts to slowly approach what she was wanting to discuss. [color=7ea7d8]“How were you treated at the orphanage, in comparison to the Refuge? We have seen what life is like in there”[/color], and heard the tales too… she thought, alluding to the difficult discussions Jocasta has expressed prior to their arrival. [color=7ea7d8]“You would have an unique perspective as both an Orphan and as a Tethered”[/color]. 

[color=#FD5E53]”Well, it’s hard to say how it compares to life in the Refuge. I haven’t seen anything to confirm Jocasta’s utter hatred of the place. The children I played with seemed happy enough. Although, I [i]am[/i] very concerned about the lack of freedom here. It seems like none of these kids realize there’s an entire world outside these walls.“[/color] Yalen paused for a few moments. [color=#FD5E53]”The monastery I was raised in was more than a place of worship. It was my home. I’ve been there since I was an infant. I suppose my parents suspected I would have the disease and left me there, and they couldn’t have chosen a better place to do so. The monks raised us like their own children. We wanted for little. Some of my brothers and sisters were more willing to embrace the Creator than others, but the order is  not a cult. We were free to believe whatever we chose to.“[/color]

Ayla smiles a moment as she imagines what life at the monastery might be like, though recounting her knowledge from back home, [color=7ea7d8]“In Varrahasta, the orphans used to play a lot by the docks. Many merchants would pay a shiny Corona for a pair of helping hands, if they were lucky, a coin from Revidia. It kept them from causing too much mischief, often growing up to be traders or dockworkers themselves. The girls often took care of the domestic duties and running of the place, dreaming of being married off to a rich merchant and seeing the world.”[/color], she slowly starts to approach closer to what she wanted to discuss,  [color=7ea7d8]“We might be able to help those at the Refuge, if they were willing”[/color].

Yalen looked a bit more focused on the conversation now. [color=#FD5E53]”Willing? Are we talking about something other than dealing with the aberration?“[/color]

She nods towards him,  [color=7ea7d8]“There is a reason we were chosen. Jocasta, myself, and you… the Aberration isn’t our mission… it is more the pretext.”[/color]. Her fingers interlock with his own,  [color=7ea7d8]“We can make a real difference in their lives, but I am getting ahead of myself. Think of our conversation as I repeat what Marci said in your absence.”[/color], she looks towards him, watching to see if he is starting to follow her train of thoughts. 

[color=#FD5E53]”Go on, I’m listening.“[/color]

 [color=7ea7d8]“Marci told us that the Refuge is lacking something important, something those orphanages have. A future, a life, a purpose.”[/color], starts to carefully craft the scene with her words,  [color=7ea7d8]“They have pool parties, food, drink, even…”[/color], she feels her cheeks blush red at the last one, but presses on,  [color=7ea7d8]“... but nothing to get them up for in the morning. The Refuge is not an Orphanage, it is Hospicio - Hospice. A place for the infirm and dying.”[/color] She found it so easy to jump ahead, struggling to hold back her ideas, now reeling herself back to Marci’s statements,  [color=7ea7d8]“There is something else about the Refuge, the real reason we were invited and not Duke Frannemàs, and most likely unknown to Torragon, they are training the Tethered here as living weapons. Weapons which can end a life from 10 miles away without a trace. Assassins.”[/color] Upon the last word, she looks gravely towards Yalen.

The young priest jumped to his feet when he heard the word ‘assassin’. 

[color=#FD5E53]”Assa…!“[/color] Yalen’s mouth clamped shut as he looked around the immediate area. Their travel companions weren’t especially close by, but might pick up on the conversation if the two of them spoke too loudly. 

[color=#FD5E53]”Assassins?“[/color] Yalen’s tone took on a whisper now. He sat back down and regained his composure. [color=#FD5E53]”I wouldn’t even believe such a thing if it weren’t coming from you. So this is what Marceline told you? What of Jocasta?“[/color]

Ayla tugs hard upon Yalen’s hand, causing him to sit back down beside her, leaning in close towards him as she puts a finger upon his lips with a distinct [color=7ea7d8]Shh[/color]. She looked around towards the others as he attracted attention, speaking louder, [color=7ea7d8]“ Ñoño ! Sit down”[/color]. As the sands settle, she returns to talking to him quieter, this time subtly using the gift to cover their conversation, [color=7ea7d8]“That is what Marci told us… as for Jo, don’t know … it is marked by the Clovers on the Naranja tree. Those are the ones recruited.”[/color]. She pauses to allow the information to be digested before continuing, [color=7ea7d8]“She agrees to do it because there is nothing else, no purpose”[/color].

[color=#FD5E53]”She? Marceline? If she’s involved then she put herself in a lot of danger by revealing her secrets. Is she the one asking you for help or…“[/color] Yalen began to trail off. 

Ayla shakes her head,  [color=7ea7d8]“Not directly, maybe indirectly, maybe confessional. She wasn’t able to finish…”[/color], she tilts her head towards the direction of Zarina, who now seems to be deep in conversation with Marci, [color=7ea7d8]“Though it appears they have made up”[/color]. She moves her eyes forward,  [color=7ea7d8]“Been thinking to myself, what can a daughter of a Duke of Torragon do?”[/color], she gives a sly smile before turning to face Yalen,  [color=7ea7d8]“Petition King Sancho on their behalf. He would be interested to find out what happens here, and imagine if those skills could be put to other purposes…”[/color]. She beams brightly as she goes into her sales pitch, [color=7ea7d8]“Let's turn the Hospice into an Orphanage, the Adopted Children of Torragon. Instead of being treated as fragile burdens, make them treasured resources. Allow them opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. Like an orphanage big sister, the older ones can run the Refuge, no need for Wardens.”[/color] She gazes intently towards Yalen as she chews on her bottom-lip. The boy is the first to hear about this plan, and as a Tethered himself, she wonders about his thoughts upon the matter. [color=7ea7d8]“It won’t be perfect, but it will be better. Move them closer to other people like a big city, allow them to experience real life they are being deprived of”[/color].

True to his nature, Yalen was a patient listener. As Ayla laid out her plans for him he quietly nodded his head and looked at her intently without interruption. He began to speak again once Ayla stopped to take a breath. 

[color=#FD5E53]”Your idea is ambitious to say the least, but I do like it. I’m worried you might be overlooking something though. If we tethered make for such potent weapons as you say, don’t you think the refuges were designed the way they are on purpose? We may not be looking at a neglected bureaucracy, but something far more sinister. If you rock the boat too much you may face consequences from powerful people.“[/color]

Ayla had considered this, returning to an earlier point. [color=7ea7d8]“Assuming you are correct. Wouldn’t they want this knowledge hidden from others? The secret weapons of Torragon on display to the world by inviting us here.”[/color], she shakes her head, [color=7ea7d8]“Duke Frannemàsis not too far from here, his men could resolve this issue upon request without the presence of forasteiros.”[/color] She sighed as she paused for a moment, carefully considering his words. [color=7ea7d8]“King Sancho is pragmatic. If we petition him, we won’t be the ones held responsible. Cannot say much for senhor pervertido”[/color].

[color=FD5E53]“Hmmm… well, I suppose you know better than I do when it comes to the political side of things. You never told me you were a duke’s daughter. You’ve given me a lot to consider, but I do need to know, what is it you’re asking of me?”[/color] Yalen retracted his hand and placed both of him in his lap.

Ayla watches as the hand is removed away from her, [color=7ea7d8]“Does that... bother you, Yalen?”[/color], her blue eyes seem to shine with surprise as she notices a formality creep into his voice. [color=7ea7d8]“Wanted your opinion as a friend. Your own insights to this situation.”[/color] Her eyes watch upon the hands placed upon his lap, as if looking for movement.

Yalen seemed to pick up on Ayla’s uneasiness, because he gave her another reassuring smile. [color=FD5E53]“Bother me? No no no. I’m just feeling a bit overwhelmed. You all have such powerful magic and are important people to boot. Me, I’m just a country boy from a Miattan border town. It makes me wonder why Hugo needed my services at all.”[/color] He tapped his chin pensively. [color=#FD5E53]”As for what I think, well, I share your point of view. I just don’t want you to get in over your head. No matter what happens, I’ll support you.“[/color]

Yalen looked around yet again to gauge the perception of those around them. Everyone was ignoring them thanks to Ayla’s sound dampening. His eyes were especially drawn to Marceline and Jocasta. 

[color=#FD5E53]”If Marceline is training to be one of these so-called assassins, then did Jocasta…“[/color] When he realized what he was saying, Yalen’s face turned a bit pale. His eyes went back to Ayla as he waited for her to say something.

Ayla simply smiles brightly towards Yalen, moving her hand back upon his as it rests upon his lap, she leans in to whisper, even with the sound proofing.  [color=7ea7d8]“Do you like Jo, Yalen? You have been bringing her name up a lot.”[/color], a somewhat mischievous sparkle in her eyes as she grins like a Cheshire cat.  [color=7ea7d8]“She is pretty. You have been looking towards her quite a bit this morning too”[/color]. 

Yalen was completely caught off guard and leaned back slightly. His face was caught up between surprise and embarrassment. [color=#FD5E53]”H-hey! Where is this coming from? I thought you and Zarina were quite different, but I guess I was wrong!“[/color] The red faced monk turned his head away and exhaled. [color=#FD5E53]”I… w-well, I’m certainly interested in her, but I think your suspicions are a bit misplaced. She just… I had some dreams last night and they weren't the good kind. I saw her in them, and because of that I had a hard time being around her this morning. Like I said, I’m over it.“[/color]

Ayla softens her smile as she removes her hand away from him, [color=7ea7d8]“If you change your mind, there could be a good word put in on your behalf.”[/color] She finishes her playful tease as she returns more seriously to the discussion. [color=7ea7d8]“Let’s hope they were merely bad dreams, there are desafios - challenges ahead.”[/color]
[/hider]
[hr][color=7ea7d8][b]Part:[/b][/color] Journey back to Refuge [b]|[/b] [color=7ea7d8][b]Collab:[/b][/color] Zarina [@YummyYummy][hr][hider=Ayla x Zarina]
Ayla leans over Jocasta, kneeling beside her as she is giving the poor girl a hug as she pulls her close as she is slowly unwrapped from that fetal position. It seems that Jo became serious for her friends, offering everything she had to save the party from the froabasses. She gently guides her into the upwards position as she starts to speak, [color=ffdead]“I tried to get the wyrm,"[/color] she rasped, [color=ffdead]“but I couldn't. The Froabasses are... nine miles from here, with their food. They won't be bothering us anymore.”[/color] Ayla continues to simply hold upon Jo, feeling the body trembling within her arms, the skin clammy. [color=7ea7d8]“We need to get her back to the Refuge, Marci, can she ride with you?”[/color], she appears around at the carnage left over from the attack, it seems they would need to be doubling up anyway. [color=7ea7d8]“Zaz! We need your help. Need to get Jo onto the camel”[/color], she looks around as she shouts out, trying to locate the tall Virangish girl to support her.

Zarina had just dodged death by horrible disembowelment from the now vanished flock of carnivorous beasts, and it took her a little bit to fully process everything. When he name was called, she shook her head and sheathed both her blades. The camels were still behind her, as she had stepped forward to guard them, especially the supply wagon, as well as the more defenceless ones of the group, [color=C78A2C]”Hmmm? Yeah, sure.”[/color] she was drenched in sweat, hair greased up with dust accumulated on it and the elastic that kept it tied ripped and gone. She was a mess, but her mind stayed sharp. Zarina gestures for Ayla to take a step back so she could use her size to quickly hoist the living super-weapon onto the mount and ensure she was properly fastened via the riding equipment made for Tethered while also tying the supply camel to Escarra’s for added safety. A couple of verifications later and she’d give the animal a couple of taps on the rear, [color=C78A2C]”Stay behind her, Marci. Make sure she doesn’t wobble too much.”[/color] she then sighs and peers over at Ayla, [color=C78A2C]”Let’s go.”[/color]

[color=ffdead]“‘m fine,”[/color] Jocasta insisted, slurring her words slightly. [color=ffdead]“Just overdrew. Need…”[/color] She swayed dangerously, only for Marci to grab her. [color=ffdead]“Rest,”[/color] the older Tethered finished. [color=ffdead]“I’m sorry.”[/color]

In turn, the little lion was pushed up the same way Jocasta was onto Zarina’s camel. The Virangish pseudo-creature whisperer kept on land for now, mostly so she could keep better tabs on both the convoy and the supply camel tied to the mounted camel, [color=C78A2C]”You’re not hurt, Ayla? You’ve got …”[/color] she points at her own left brow, indicating that there was a bloodstain over Ayla’s eye.

Ayla wipes her brow with her sleeve as she looks around, they have some reprieve from the attack, though the situation has certainly escalated. She was hoping to try to round up some of the Tethered to help with the Sandwyrm, but now there would be no choice, as their home will be assaulted by the creature. [color=7ea7d8]“We were too late to stop them, we need to head back and warn the others and prepare to defend the Refuge…”[/color]. She looks out towards the sands, she had hoped to replicate their earlier success with the Thumper, stopping the aberration in its tracks. She looks down to see Zaz continuing to look at her with concern, [color=7ea7d8]“We should be okay. Made sure to rest on the journey here”[/color].

Holding onto the straps by the camel’s cheek, Zarina was essentially guiding the last member of the chain they formed. The sand had gotten colder, and she could always hop on if it got too hot or tiresome, [color=C78A2C]”Good.”[/color] she simply answered, eyes darting between the front and somewhat behind her. The camels had since calmed down and were going at a constant but slow pace, [color=C78A2C]”I’m going to need you sharp. There isn’t just the Wyrm to think of.”[/color] she lowered her voice, words semi-articulated and the camel’s breathing made it somewhat difficult to hear her. Good thing Ayla was a sound mage.

Her attention was on Jocasta after another round of shifting eyes. What she had just displayed and what had been revealed not all that long ago– it all made Zarina very anxious. An anxiety that was surprisingly efficient at keeping her awake and aware, [color=C78A2C]”What do you think of her? Full honesty.”[/color] she nudges her chin in the direction of the Tethered pair, [color=C78A2C]”She’s by no means just some fragile little flower. I don’t even think my mother could match what we just saw.”[/color]

Ayla pondered the question for a moment before answering. [color=7ea7d8]“Jo is my friend. We are probably her only friends. She needs us more than it looks like, she is very lonely.”[/color] She reflects on when they first faced the Halassa, how she noticed the performance she displayed before them. [color=7ea7d8]“She has been holding back because she is scared, scared because of those who used her in the past. Imagine being so powerful that everyone around either fears you, or wants to use you.”[/color] She tilts her head towards Zaz, a sly smirk as she teases her playfully.  [color=7ea7d8]“We guess that you have to get used to being called Zamira now?”[/color]

Zarina did not succumb to humour. Her cold and cautious gaze remained, [color=C78A2C]”I don’t know if she is scared.”[/color] her eyes narrow a little more, [color=C78A2C]”Keep quiet about it, but she did confess to being from that very refuge-”[/color] halfway through this confession she looks up toward Ayla with her gait slowing just a little more as to make the camels lag behind just a little, not enough to get any attention though, [color=C78A2C]”Like Marci. Like Amanda. She was like them.”[/color] lips pursed, she looked at her friend expectantly, to see if she was piecing together what Zarina was presenting.

Ayla nods, understanding, [color=7ea7d8]“She was another of the Clovers. They trained her well.”[/color] simply looks a little saddened, [color=7ea7d8]“Been discussing how to resolve the situation at the Refuge. This programme is not sanctioned by Torragon, why do you think the school was asked to get involved? Imagine the potential if it was, these children will be treated like national treasures. They can have a real purpose, a real existence, than being hidden in the dark remote regions like this.”[/color] She simply watches Jocasta and Marceline from their position, [color=7ea7d8]“Going to petition the King on their behalf. A chance for experiencing real life.”[/color]

As Ayla went on with her plan, Zarina returned her attention to what was forward. She was paying attention, but the cub’s words of hope did little to actually uplift Zarina’s mood, [color=C78A2C]”How do you keep an attitude like that when we just saw two people and a few camels get eaten alive in front of us?”[/color] partially a reflection, partially an awkward attempt at humour, Zarina ended up sighing, [color=C78A2C]”It’s all nice and good, to have such ambitions and a big heart, Ayla. But let’s ground ourselves for just a moment. Està posible?”[/color] she pauses to adjust a strap on the camel’s saddle before continuing, [color=C78A2C]”I want you to remember what we discovered the other night. And then factor in this morning and the little lies our Tethered friend has been telling us. Good reasons or bad, doesn’t matter when you think about it.”[/color]

She sighs as she looks towards Zarina, a look reminiscent of earlier, [color=7ea7d8]“How can we expect her to believe in us, when we don’t believe in her?”[/color]. The tone is critical, but softens, going quiet as she considers the earlier spoken words,  [color=7ea7d8]“Why dwell on what cannot be changed, when we have the power to change the future?”[/color]. Looks towards the Caravan as they begin to set off,  [color=7ea7d8]“How often did you speak to those here before yesterday? Through our shared experiences, we are forging bonds of friendship, and it is these bonds which will get us through our trial ahead of us”[/color].

[color=C78A2C]”Ayla.”[/color] Zarina closes her eyes, leaves her mouth agape to take in a few deep breaths, and then continues, [color=C78A2C]”Use your brain, not your heart. At some point it becomes condescending.”[/color] the restraint was something to behold, though she did exert herself quite a bit at this point, [color=C78A2C]”I’ll explain, since I didn’t make it clear enough.”[/color] they were deep in the desert already, and Zarina was still walking by the camel, clearly unperturbed by her decision, [color=C78A2C]”The one that died before we arrived. You know, what we overheard at the morgue. Sudden heart attack from a ranger. We hadn’t even met the group they had mentioned and one just dropped dead. Do you recall Marci’s detailing of how good Tethered are at doing that? Killing from afar?”[/color] she nudges at the camel’s saddle, encouraging it to pick up the pace a little as they were lagging a little too much, [color=C78A2C]”Then, another ranger disappears in the night. And then I find out Jo’s got history with the place.”[/color]

Zarina let the information sink in a little longer, but she continues before giving a chance to comment, [color=C78A2C]”Now, we see what she can do. If someone this powerful is actually on a warpath, Ayla, what the fuck do we do? Because you can kiss your bleeding heart initiative goodbye if we’ve got a vengeful Jocasta that won’t take no for an answer.”[/color]

Ayla rubs upon her temples as she tries to process the information.[color=7ea7d8]“So during the Halassa attacking us, she decided ‘Oh, lets kill a random person over there’ ?”[/color], she tilts her head as she looks towards Zarina, [color=7ea7d8]“You always had an active imagination, wouldn’t it make more sense for Marci or another Clover to do it. Either way, last night, Jo decided to wheel herself to the rangers room, remove a body, no blood anywhere, went down to the stables body and belongings in toe, packed up the horse with belongings, then made them all disappear, then snuggled up into bed when we were touring the Refuge?”[/color]. She simply groans as she rubs her temples more, growing frustrated, looking down exasperated towards Zarina. She pauses for a moment, holding her hands up, [color=7ea7d8]“Let’s assume you are right, however improbable… … … how are you going to stop her?”[/color], there is an emphasis on the you in the statement, one which was not expected to be answered. [color=7ea7d8]“Perhaps you won’t be as dismissive of appealing to her bleeding heart”[/color].


[color=C78A2C]”Random?”[/color] she raises a brow, [color=C78A2C]”She’s from there. If she did kill the ranger, it wouldn’t be random. That’s the point. Why NOW do they start dying? People supposedly used to harsh conditions.”[/color] she shakes her head, [color=C78A2C]”What sounds more crazy? The meticulous crime you’ve just described, or one person warping dozens of Froabasses in one instant?”[/color] she stares at Ayla, deadpan, [color=C78A2C]”Actually, if one could do that to a bunch of massive creatures, wouldn’t doing it to one man and a horse be easy? You’re acting like I’m just guessing, but this actually pieces conveniently together.”[/color] and then a big exhale. She slows herself down to check on the rear camel briefly, checking for any potential wounds and the such before returning to her friend, [color=C78A2C]”There’s very little I can do if she’s resigned to exacting any sort of action. And I’ve sort of promised to get Marci outta the shithole,”[/color] she raises her free hand near her mouth and bites down on her now dirt-covered nail, [color=C78A2C]”But if things get dangerous with her, you might be the one we need to quell the flames. As frustrating as you may be now, I think you get it right sooooometimes. Mostly. A lot.”[/color]

Ayla cannot help but smile as Zarina conceded her position, [color=7ea7d8]“We would be best placed if you are wrong, so don’t rush in being right in this matter.”[/color] Zarina clicks her tongue, [color=C78A2C]”I’m talking to your corny butt, aren’t I? As tame as I can possibly be. But you get it now, don’t you? Someone this strong stuck with first years on a convenient mission. You don’t need an imagination to figure this out.”[/color] Ayla points out the obvious in return, [color=7ea7d8]“Hugo chose us for a reason. We are in Torragon after all.”[/color], grinning as she gestures towards herself. [color=7ea7d8]“Our real mission is to make things right, to correct the wrongs in this world. If Jo was on a warpath as you said, she would not need deception, the Refuge would be gone before the Wyrm got to it. We got to believe in our friend, and a friend also knows how to steer you onto the right path.”[/color]

[color=C78A2C]”Or something’s holding her back. Thing is, we don’t know. I’d like to think you’re right, Ayla.”[/color] she continues to nibble her thumb’s nail, [color=C78A2C]”I really would. But the truth is, we’ve only known her for a day. I can assure you, trust wouldn’t come that easy where I’m from, and I’m definitely not ready to let my guard down.”[/color] Zarina hops over to sit on the camel’s saddle, right behind Ayla. She reaches out for the reins and takes over the steering, [color=C78A2C]”You see the good in her, even after what we just saw and heard.”[/color] she smiles warmly behind the Arslan cub, [color=C78A2C]”Someone’s gotta consider the worst possible scenario, though. Especially when dealing with … That calibre.”[/color] she gives a passing glance to the camel carrying the passed out Jocasta.

[color=7ea7d8]“Planning to bring up my plan at a convenient time, and as for your concerns, the King won’t tolerate such a rebellious tendency. If it is done once, it can happen again.”[/color], sighs out, [color=7ea7d8]“Don’t think even my voice would be able to help them then.”[/color] Zarina speaks over Ayla, [color=C78A2C]”Speaking of. I was gonna say …”[/color] she steers the camel just a bit further to the side, just to be particularly safe and not get any sudden eavesdroppers, [color=C78A2C]”Both of them, they mentioned a revolution. Like they had planned something of their own.”[/color] she whispers right by the sound mage’s ear.
Ayla grumbles as she feels Zarina’s arms around her as she takes over the steering, the girl’s body being pressed against the back of her own as they are stuck together between the humps of the camel. [color=7ea7d8]“You must be doing this intentionally now, knowing we are stuck together like this”[/color], her voice mumbling to confuse her lips, even though a twist of her fingers is cancelling any sound. She tilts her head as she looks up, the height difference causing it to lean against her shoulder as she tries to examine her face. [color=7ea7d8]“Or were you not planning on sharing this information with me.”[/color], sounding disappointed in this revelation.

Zarina tightened her hold on the other passenger and rested her clenched hands over the saddle, [color=C78A2C]”I was going to mention it, but you were keen on disproving me. Soooo, I focused on that. Because I’m right.”[/color] she looks down with a cheeky smile, [color=C78A2C]”I don’t know the details. They want to meet with this Amanda person. Tell us the whole truth, or something along those lines.”[/color] the Virangish girl leans back against the hump behind her, gently enough to not hurt the animal but eventually the creature adapts to her weight being applied to the bump, [color=C78A2C]”Kind of makes your own plan an issue, if they’re gonna wave the flags of rebellion. If we all survive the Wyrm, anyway.”[/color]

Ayla frowns more, [color=7ea7d8]“Then that means we just need to make sure we get to this Amanda before or as we do. If we convince her of our plan, she should be able to temper the others, and then we can save them from both señor pervertido and themselves”[/color]. She smirks for a moment as she watches Zarina, [color=7ea7d8]“operación corazón sangrando - operation bleeding heart, ahoy!”[/color].

Zarina snorts at the terrible naming convention, [color=C78A2C]”Yeah. It did sound like they valued that person’s input. Let’s just hope you can mix a bit of brains in your speeches.”[/color] she then gives a couple of pokes to Ayla as a tease, [color=C78A2C]”But.”[/color] the moment of levity had subsided, now Zarina’s tone is drier, [color=C78A2C]”Consider yourself too. Those close to you. You are fucking with a source of weapons for many interested parties, including Torragon most likely.”[/color] again she quieted down, her chin poking the other’s shoulder to keep the whisper close to Ayla’s ear, [color=C78A2C]”Depending on how it goes, the world will know Ayla Arslan helped disrupt a Tethered Refuge, staining the Arslan name in the process. Don’t forget, most of the world hates ‘em.”[/color]

Ayla shakes her head simply dismissing the concerns easily, [color=7ea7d8]“There is no concern, my loyalty has never been questioned, neither has House Arslan despite those rumours.”[/color]. She pushes herself backwards against the girl as she makes herself comfortable, wiggling herself in position as she plots for another catnap before preparing for her big speech to influence the shifting sands of the desert. [color=7ea7d8]“The King’s eyes and ears would be my own on this matter”[/color], she places her head against Zaz’s shoulder as she gently wraps an arm around her, securing a hold as she closes her eyes. [color=7ea7d8]“Thank you for caring”[/color].

Zarina sighs, her expression out of Ayla’s cone of view. She was not particularly reassured by the answer, but refrained from adding anything more. The kitty wanted to sleep, and the Virangish rider had to keep an eye on the caravan as well as the cargo camel walking beside her own. The evening was quiet, the air cooler and Zarina mostly still– cat bound. They still had a little bit to go, and she only had the sights to really keep her distracted at this point. The coming hours were going to be rough, she could feel it.
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[hr][color=7ea7d8][b]Next:[/b][/color] It is time to meet Amanda...
[hr][hider=TL;DR Summary]
Friendship building with Kaspar
Encouraged Kaspar to become his own person.
Friendship building with Ysilla
[i]Pending[/i]
Friendship building with Yalen
Discussed life at Yalen's Orphanage and Orphanage life in Varrahasta
Ayla shared her plan on how to help with the Tethered. Yalen voiced his agreement and also concerns about consequences.
Ayla shared information about the Refuge-trained Clover Assassins.
Yalen shared his dream.
Ayla helped Jocasta get upon the camel with Marceline.
Friendship building with Zarina.
Zarina shares concerns about Jocasta and recent events.
Ayla shares her plan to help the tethered with Zarina.
Zarina shared that the Tethered at the Refuge are planning to revolt.
Zarina raises concerns around the consequences of Ayla being involved in the mission.
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