[center][h3][u][color=#cbc66d] Roslyn Wicke [/color][/u][/h3][/center][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/vzhDyH3.png[/img][/center][center][color=#cbc66d]"You're talking to a simple, brewery girl."[/color][/center][h1][center]The Riddle of Lindenholdt Part 3.2[/center][/h1][center][sub]Date: Zales 32nd Location: The Inn [/sub][/center] [h2]The Holy Meal[/h2][hider=***********] It was not long before the sun, hidden behind a veil of clouds as it was, dipped below the horizon of jagged rooftops, steeples, and trees that made up Lindenholdt. Dinner was served, brought out by none other than a bedraggled-looking Margit, who was Mr. Hoefler's niece. Margarethe tailed her around, helping where she could and learning the job. People talked, for they had a lot to talk about. Some conversations happened aboveboard, around the dinner table, but it seemed that Lindenholdt, that burgeoning bustling town of whispers and secrets, had rubbed off on them. Roslyn pulled, first, Xiuyang and, then, Marceline aside. Evander approached the Revidian heiress next and Dorothea spoke with Marco before being spirited away by the group's tethered for a private chat. Johann, hoping to reach Marceline before she disappeared again, found himself listening to an apology from Roslyn instead, which he accepted in good cheer while admitting to an overreaction on his part. He came together again, briefly, with Evander, and they spoke in low tones. That left Edyta and Ingrid to mostly... be normal, which was an unusual proposition for both, in different respects. The former had just come out of the kitchen, having made pierogis for all of the students by hand and with the closest thing that her stony closed-off little heart could muster to love. Margarethe had delivered some of them and Margit had delivered the rest. She assured those who she spoke to that she was managing and that the money from this job really helped. She did not want Fritz, Rudy, and Emma to take bad jobs. [color=6ecff6]"So, cam'parii, gonna try some, or are you checking for poison first?"[/color] She was seated on a barstool, beer stein in hand, one leg folded over the other and swinging idly, and a smirk on her face. [color=6ecff6]"I mean, I wouldn't blame you if you did."[/color] Presently, she took a small sip, hiding the lower half of her face behind her drink. Ingrid was drinking some ice wine on such a decent night. She poked the pierogi with a fork, the crisped outer layer giving a soft filling. She cooed at the satisfying crackle, [color=8882be]"If you wanted to kill me so nicely, I happily accept it."[/color] Ingrid helped herself to the cheesy filled dumpling. Her expression was absolutely heavenly as she chowed down on the first one. [color=8882be]"So the rumors were untrue about your cooking,"[/color] Ingrid offered a genuine compliment to the chef. [i][color=#cbc66d]There's that word again... [/color][/i] Roslyn frowned a bit upon hearing Edyta say it again to Ingrid. Reflecting on her past lessons with Esmii, she recognized the word parii to be mouth. However, she had no idea what cam was. Something to look up later or ask Ashon the next time she crossed paths with him. Taking a break from her ale, she examined the food. She rolled it on the plate before she cut into it with the knife then brought it to her mouth. A small pop of flavor filled her tongue while she chewed, adjusting to the taste. [color=#cbc66d]"Not nearly as good as Johann's breakfast, but I like it."[/color] Edyta nodded. [color=6ecff6]"Yes. It's true. It's not nearly as good as Johann's cooking."[/color] She rolled her eyes and smiled faintly at Roslyn's blunt assessment and its timing. Then, she lowered her voice. [color=6ecff6]"Listen: tomorrow is Shune's day and we've set things up for a lot of discoveries."[/color] She scowled. [color=6ecff6]"Go out there and be brave. Ruffle some feathers."[/color] She picked at her own food and hated it, to be honest, because it was good but not as good as the pierogis her mother had made her as a child. Hers would never be as good. She picked up again after the momentary pause. [color=f26522]"But don't be stupid. Don't act rashly before you know the whole picture."[/color] She shook her head and glanced to the side, where Marceline was fast approaching, weaving her way through the tables. [color=f26522]"There are people who are trying to mislead you, to get you to unwittingly [i]help[/i] the forces of evil."[/color] A few misplaced chairs that most would've squeezed around had stopped the tethered in her tracks and she was forced to move them. Edyta had one last, hurried message. [color=f26522]"There are some in the church who think evil is stupid, but they are wrong. It plans. It waits. It deceives, and it is very good at these things."[/color] She glanced behind her shoulder and the girl in the green dress was moving again. [color=6ecff6]"Look for inconsistencies. They'll be small, but I think they'll be there. Good luck!"[/color] With that, she collected the couple of finished plates that were in front of her and turned to greet Marceline. Roslyn's grin widened at seeing a spark of warmth Edtya had shown. With each time they crossed paths, she had noticed the nun's frozen demeanor had melted. Cracks started to show there was more than an ice queen beneath. She didn't lean in when Laska's words became quieter, but she didn't ignore them. At the mention of helping evil, her grip on her fork tightened before she set it down. She recalled Viiqii's bog monster and Belleville's Sanguinaire attack hiding something more sinister. Instinctively, her eyes moved to her wrist. Three demonic events-counting this one- in the span of five months. Was it more than simple misfortune and coincidence?[/hider][h2]Blanketed Affairs[/h2][hider=************] She recalled Xiuyang's words about it. It reminded her that she needed to make a request of her friend and possibly check on her. Better now than later. [color=#cbc66d]"If you'll excuse me I think I have a few things to deal with before tomorrow. Try not to flirt too much, Ingrid. Someone might get jealous. Have a good evening."[/color] With those words, the small girl ordered two more ales and then moved from her seat toward Xiuyang. Roslyn set the mug in front of her other one before taking the opposing seat. [color=#cbc66d]"Looks like you were getting empty."[/color] Nursing her own for a bit, she added in a softer tone before she took a sip. [color=#cbc66d]"Everything... okay?"[/color] [color=slateblue]"I'm only empty if I need to leave the table,"[/color] Xiuyang whispered conspiratorially, tapping the gourd at her hip. Still, she took the mug gratefully and chugged, as one did. [color=slateblue]"MMMMmmmm~?"[/color] She raised a brow at Roslyn's query. Lightly slamming the mug down, she wiped her lips and rested her chin on her palm. [color=slateblue]"Well, sure. Maybe a little antsy spending Caldores 'alone.' To me, this seems more like, y'know... that thing where like, the one who [i]really[/i] needs to be asked if they're okay is you, but because you were raised selfless an' all that, you ask somebody else, because that's what you grew up doing. There's, like... a name for that. Surely there is. If there isn't, I should name it."[/color] She pondered for a moment. [color=#cbc66d]"Likely is, but beats me what it is. "[/color] Roslyn shrugged, laughing a bit with a smile. It didn't last long. [color=#cbc66d]"I can understand that. This place reminds me of home so much, I regret missing Caldores last year. The reason feels petty now that I think about it."[/color] Roslyn recalled the fear she felt last year. She rotated the mug's top with her fingers twice, taking her time with her words. Finally she continued. [color=#cbc66d]"Truthfully for me? I don't know anymore. I feel like I am staring at the edge of insanity and one wrong move..."[/color] She took a breath and trailed off. [color=#cbc66d]"Also, you're avoiding the question. I don't know you as well as your family, but I can tell something is wrong. I can't place my finger on what. Before we go back to the school, you and I need to sit down and talk. Both of us not holding back, agreed?"[/color] [color=slateblue]"Our burdens are growing, but so are we. Could you imagine the Roslyn or Xiuyang of one year ago handling what we are now? While still clinging to sanity?"[/color] Xiuyang replied sagely. [color=slateblue]"I can humor you later if you really want, but none of my worries or anxieties are anything more than typical for a girl who's soon to be wed. That is to say, it'll just sound like bragging."[/color] Roslyn tsked with her finger. [color=#cbc66d]"With Dami's aid, I'll be the judge of that. And last year me would've frozen in place at telling of spooky stories."[/color] The tension in her posture relaxed as she drank half of her mug, moving onto the last thing. [color=#cbc66d]"Now that I have gotten that off my chest, I have a favor to ask. Can I burrow that inferno blanket tomorrow? I rather not be freezing my ass off in the cold. Using magic all the time is draining, honestly."[/color] [color=slateblue]"My divinely appointed protection? My only source of warmth in this cold, cold town?"[/color] replied a persecuted Xiuyang with shifty eyes. [color=slateblue]"You don't regret selling it to me, do you?"[/color] [hr] Somewhere, elsewhere in the inn, Jana felt as if her quality wares were being sorely underappreciated. She wasn't sure what gave her the sudden feeling, but it was there nonetheless. [hr] Roslyn leaned in with a smirk. [color=#cbc66d]"I miiight be."[/color] She pulled back and turned serious again. [color=#cbc66d]"Seriously, no. I'm glad you got it and it's been useful this trip. I might've packed too lightly and didn't expect this place to be so damn cold. Of course, I don't expect you to loan it out to me for nothing."[/color] Pausing for another sip, she continued. [color=#cbc66d]"Name your price and I'll even toss in one of the beer flavors you liked the most. When we get back to Ersand'Enise of course."[/color] [color=slateblue]"Bruja. Temptress."[/color] Xiuyang pulled the blanket tighter around herself. Whether it was the alcohol, or Laska's change in mood, something had lifted her spirits a little. She was concealing a smile behind that blanket. [color=slateblue]"My price is in sweet buttery goodness from that bakery. A half dozen a day. With interest. And if you don't give it back, I'm making you my pillow on the return trip. Payback for the trip here. Your move, Miss Wicke."[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"I blame you and Marci for it. And you strike a hard bargain."[/color] Roslyn leaned back in the chair, her thumb and finger stroking her chin. [color=#cbc66d]"Might be hard if the bakery is closed, but I will work something out. You got a deal."[/color] She held out her hand to seal the deal. [color=#cbc66d]"Now, I need to work up the courage to apologize to Johann. Not a good idea to let him stay mad and I do feel awful for upsetting him like that."[/color] Xiuyang looked at Roslyn's hand for a moment before shaking it, as if she didn't quite believe that she was taking this offer so seriously. [color=slateblue]"I don't think what you said really warrants an apology, Rose. It shouldn't have upset anyone. I'm certainly not apologizing for what I said,"[/color] she replied with a snort. [color=#cbc66d]"It shouldn't have, but it did. Truthfully, someone has to make the first move and I'm used to it being me. I have nothing to lose."[/color] She withdrew her hand and finished the rest of her drink. She winked as she started to leave the table. [color=#cbc66d]"Will come to get the blanket tomorrow morning. Enjoy it while you have it. "[/color][/hider][h2]Secrets Among Friends[/h2][hider=*************] Meanwhile, Marceline had been accosted by Johann, who had offered a half-apology for his outburst and tried, by indirect means, to extract one from her. The tethered had dodged his repeated and increasingly obvious invitations and the 'conversation' had ended, moments ago, as awkwardly as it had begun. Marci rolled up to Roslyn as Johann hung about. [color=598527]"Me or him, Rosy, 'cause you look like you've got things to say and so do I."[/color] She flashed a little smile to soften her brash statement and let her friend know that it was a joke. Truth be told, she [i]did[/i] feel a touch guilty about she'd been with Johann, but insincerity of his apology and the way he'd gone about trying to extract one from her had done little but trigger a natural instinct to push back. [color=#cbc66d]"Aww, Marci, why must you make me choose? That's horrible."[/color] Roslyn playfully whined as she pretended to pout. Of course, it was short lived and her eyes glanced between them. Marceline had already tried to get her attention and denying her a second time felt wrong. [color=#cbc66d]"You know it has to be you, right?'[/color] She turned to Johann with an apologetic expression. [color=#cbc66d] "Don't go too far, all right Johann?"[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Let's head somewhere out of the way, shall we?"[/color] She gestured for a nearby wall where foot traffic was far less. Johann forced a smile and stabbed at his food and nodded. The social structure of the girls began to solidify in his head. Marceline was a wild child, a sensory junkie, and a gambler who had escaped a confining childhood and believed in her own genius. She controlled the others by remaining a constant force within their minds, either by her wit, the resources she offered, or the fear of displeasing her. She could not be ignored and, he hypothesized, was probably terrified of such an eventuality. Roslyn, meanwhile, was a mother hen in training, socially astute and yet, somehow, not in touch with herself. She rendered her presence so inoffensive and loyal that all ended up confiding in her and none could say a bad word without being seen as in the wrong. Perhaps the idea that anyone might think ill of her was the Hendlishwoman's personal terror. Xiuyang was shiftier than the others, constantly in evolution but not so different from her friends. The hardened skin and airs she had once put on were still there to an extent, but she cared less about control. She'd molded herself into a straight shooter - an equal mix of Marci's wit and daring and Roslyn's caring loyalty. Without her, the others were lost and, without them, perhaps [i]she[/i] was. In any case, he waited, realizing that their little clique was something he might be able to become friendly with, but he would never break into it. That was the implacable reality. [hr] Marci, at least, didn't contribute to the foot traffic. [color=598527]"You still feeling okay, Rosy?"[/color] She was straight to the point and her eyes held that alertness that they often did when she was searching for something specific. [color=598527]"For what it's worth, I think you'll be alright, but this has its risks."[/color] Roslyn tried not to flinch when she heard Zast whisper in her ear. He was already pissed at her for the generosity of the deal with Xuiyang and she felt his claws dig into her arm. A part of her wondered if he left any marks or not. She had no time to look now. With a deep breath, she weighed the emotional wreck she really was. [color=#cbc66d]"Not the first time I've faced something or someone much stronger than me. Especially something like this. I might be getting numb to it."[/color] Edyta's warning still stayed at the front of her thoughts as she picked her words carefully. [color=#cbc66d]"Good idea to have the cards stacked in my favor, right? Speaking of that, you recall the experiments we had with Leon's twin hats?"[/color] There it was again: the little start, the flinch. Marceline had always relied on her tethered sensing more so than her intuition or natural perceptiveness, but there was something going on with Roslyn. She'd have bet Zenobucks on it... or at least one location - the one by the stadium. She wasn't great at this sort of thing... or maybe she wasn't giving herself enough credit. [color=598527]"Just... if something was wrong, you'd tell me, hmm?"[/color] The tethered glanced away. [color=598527]"I have your back, alright?"[/color] Not sure what to do with her hands, she took the easy way out and rested them on her wheels, pushing a couple inches back and forth restlessly. Then, came the bit about the hats. Marci arched an eyebrow. [color=598527]"Hard to forget 'em. ...Why do you ask?"[/color] There was so much Roslyn wanted to spill and not just to Marci. However, Zast's words preyed on her fears and despite all they had been through, they had no reason to stand by her. Not if they thought she was crazy. [color=#cbc66d]"I will admit... It's hard. There's times it feels safer to put it off than risk it. Especially since you and Xiuyang mean a lot to me."[/color] She took a deep breath. [color=#cbc66d]"Right now, I don't think there's enough time to say everything I need to. Especially with what's happened and going on."[/color] Moving onto the easier topic, she revealed her thoughts in a much quieter voice. [color=#cbc66d]"I got an interesting one from the society faire. I'm not sure what all it does, but I think I can use it to give me the ability to understand Kerreman. Maybe. I haven't tested its full capabilities yet." [/color] She licked her lips then held out her finger to keep Marci from talking. [color=#cbc66d]"If anyone talks in Kerreman, I would rather be able to understand them. Karl von Mollern knows I can't speak it after all and I want to have an ace in my sleeve."[/color] Marceline was, indeed, about to speak, and being suddenly shushed made something inside of her prickle. Her hands went still on her wheels for a moment, but this was Roslyn - fucking [i]Roslyn[/i]. It was her turn to hold up a hand in pause. [color=598527]"Ah, so what you're saying is that you want me to be your kelawi pig."[/color] She nodded exaggeratedly and made a 'perfect' sign with one hand. Roslyn had not deflected but, at the same time, she had. [color=598527]"Sounds great, Rosy, but I think I'm gonna anchor first. Just in case."[/color] She started to back away from the table. [color=598527]"Oh, then, whatever it is that you're hiding, you can also tell me before my brain turns to mush and I have to reset. That way, there's no pressure."[/color] She winked, trying to balance things between 'light' and 'knowing'. Roslyn's hand rubbed the back of her neck. That sheepish look returned as she tried to hide the discomfort from the fact Marci had read her far too well. Deep down, she made a note to learn how to say things better. [color=#cbc66d]"Yeah, when you say it that way, it sounds really bad."[/color] She bit her lip. [color=#cbc66d]"So far, it doesn't seem dangerous. But I'm starting to learn not to fully trust anything anymore. As for telling my secret, fine. Something tells me that you'll get it out of me one way or another."[/color] The last part wasn't accusing, but rather stated fact. In truth, Roslyn found the notion comforting that both Xiuyang and Marci cared enough to dig. Maybe there was hope. Marceline smiled and winked. She backed up a push and began to turn, taking up much of the space in the narrow hallway. [color=598527]"I'm glad we have an understanding,"[/color] she chirped, her cheer a perfect mix of artificial and genuine. [color=598527]"Now, where's this hat you're going to mulch my brain with in the hopes of learning Kerreman?"[/color] She shook her head. [color=598527]"I am nothing if not a company man, bawss. I'll do anything for the success of this endeavour!"[/color] She giggled and rolled ahead, presuming that their destination would be the dark forbidden keep that was Roslyn's room. Roslyn shook her head with a smirk, waiting for her friend to move. She started to follow Marci when she realized she still needed to apologize to Johann. With a soft sigh, she glanced his way and realized it would have to wait a bit longer. Her friends came first. [color=#cbc66d]"Unfortunately, you'll have to overcome your dreaded foe: the stairs. It's in my room on the upper level."[/color] Marceline groaned and leaned back, lolling her head behind her and regarding Roslyn upside-down. [color=598527]"Ugh. Bruja. You've found the limits of my loyalty."[/color] They arrived at the foot of the stairs and she took a moment to draw before floating quickly up and settling on the upstairs landing. Roslyn's door was just a few pushes away, and now, it came time to reach out for the fabric of reality. In, Marceline breathed, and out. She steadied herself. Here she was, in this space and this moment. She sensed the infinite threads leading away from it, in every direction, even those she did not understand. She chose one, cut it, and bound it to her like a tether. She was anchored. [color=598527]"Lead the way!"[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Oh really now? Stop being so dramatic. It should be no issue for the great Marci to overcome."[/color] Roslyn's accent came out a bit more than she intended. She had been light-hearted until they reached the door. All her anxiety came rushing back and she stopped in her tracks. Last year her would've turned back and darted away. Instead, she gritted her teeth and reached for the handle. Praying to whichever of the five gods might listen, she hoped Marci kept her word. She pushed the door open and held it open for Marci to come inside before she shut it. No point risking a sound bubble since Laska seemed busy downstairs. At least, she hoped so. [color=#cbc66d]"Okay, first off, this is going to sound crazy, but it starts with this."[/color] she pulled up her sleeve. On her wrist was the greed stone fastened with rope and now glowing. [color=#cbc66d]"I am not sure what it is, but currently it has a Cazenax named Cawuio-Zast stuck inside of it. No one can see him, but me."[/color] [color=598527][i]Ah, so you're crazy, I see.[/i][/color] The thought nearly came out in words, but Marceline stopped herself. Perhaps, had it been someone she didn't care about, she might not have. Instead, she went with something more conciliatory. [color=598527][i]Well, then it's a demonic artifact and you need to throw it away now.[/i][/color] No! That wouldn't do. If it [i]was[/i], it would mark her as an enemy and work to influence Roslyn to destroy her. [color=598527]"And it speaks to you and tries to influence you, right?"[/color] This sounded... eerily familiar. Why Roslyn hadn't thrown it away immediately was beyond her. [color=598527]"What does it... want?"[/color] Vaguely, she seemed to recall a cazenax by the name of Zast: a nasty little thing. Roslyn had purposely remained between Marci and the door after she closed it. It took all her will to simply blurt out the truth and pray that her friend didn't say she was crazy. She waited in silent dread. Any moment, she envisioned Marci wheeling away from and telling her to stay away. Why did she tell her? When a question came, Roslyn felt her legs buckle beneath her. She slowly lowered to the floor and all the exhaust she held bled out. [color=#cbc66d]"In the recent month, yes. I've been trying to ignore him-"[/color] She stopped as she glared at the space beside her. [color=#cbc66d]"-trying to ignore him. Not easy. As for what he wants, I've been trying to understand it. He's not straight forward. He's always trying to get me to listen to him, try to make a deal."[/color] Marceline considered. [color=598527]"Well, I'm no rezaindian,"[/color] she admitted, [color=598527]"but I've done some research."[/color] She tilted her head to one side. [color=598527]"Has he offered you anything yet?"[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"I haven't bothered to listen to any of his deals. Any time he starts, I shut him down. "[/color] Roslyn put her hands in her lap as she inhaled. [color=#cbc66d]"Truthfully, I'm really starting to get tired of demons. Counting this little event, this will be my third encounter with them. My second with a grand one. "[/color] [color=598527]"It really is kind of fucked up when you think about it,"[/color] Marci offered. [color=598527]"There are just these... otherworldly entities whose sole purpose seems to be trying to come into our world and wreck shit."[/color] She paused and her expression softened - became worried. [color=598527]"And wreck people."[/color] Two big pushes and Marceline was there enfolding Roslyn in a hug. [color=598527]"You should've told me sooner, dum-dum,"[/color] she murmured into the other's shoulder. [color=598527]"but we'll figure it out together - and Xiuyang.... and maybe Ingrid or Seviin or Zarina."[/color] She smirked a bit as she realized what a long list of friends they now had. [color=598527]"Or Ayla might know a thing or two!"[/color] She considered. [color=598527]"Or Marco! Maybe even Edyta."[/color] She made the sign of the Pentad. [color=598527]"As like... a last resort. Say -"[/color] she began, pulling back and taking a moment to adjust one of her feet on its footrest, [color=598527]"The sword that we had a vision of - from the training session with Zarina - does your greed goblin..."[/color] She trailed off, implying the rest of the question. Roslyn sank into the touch. It helped more than Marci knew and things felt right. Felt safe. Her head buried into the shoulder, tears starting to flow while that tight weight in her chest eased up. She had been carrying this burden silently for nearly five months now. Too frightened to share fears that seemed so silly now. [color=#cbc66d]"I agree."[/color] She pulled back as she wiped her tears with the back of her hand. The lost sleep seemed to show through the faint powder on her skin. Another sign of suffering she had endured. [color=#cbc66d]"I was just scared that you, Xiuyang, and everyone would think I'm crazy and walk away. I already lost Esmii and Niallus to Belthagor. I almost lost myself too. I-I can't lose more friends and I don't want to hurt anyone of you."[/color] At the question about the sword, her eyes lowered in shame. [color=#cbc66d]"He was getting to be too much that I had to figure out a way to shut him up. I made the deal in this case. I offered to get the sword if he'd shut up. He said he would until the end of Caldores. Until then, he's been a pest."[/color] She twisted the edge of her skirt for a moment. [color=#cbc66d]"I will admit, I'm a little scared that anyone involved with the church might lean into... letting the gods sort it out more than actually helping."[/color] Once they'd let go of each other, Marci nodded with a grim but supportive determination. [color=598527]"One, you should've told me sooner, and Xiuyang, and possibly Seviin and Ingrid."[/color] She shook her head. [color=598527]"Two, this is bad, but we've dealt with worse."[/color] She pursed her lips and took a half-push back. [color=598527]"Three: fuck Belthagor, I'm gonna kick his ass. Yes, you heard that right. Four!"[/color] she crowed, ticking the point off on her fingers, [color=598527]"I'm tough as old boots to kill and I always have a plan."[/color] She grinned smugly. [color=598527]"And five, amiga: I wouldn't trust anyone from the church any further than I could throw them, except Marco. I'd get him involved, pronto."[/color] Marceline considered. She was not a mutant and did not possess a sixth finger. [color=598527]"Six, that sword is probably a boon. I would get it with or without a little green devil whispering in your ear."[/color] She shuddered. [color=598527]"[i]Gawds[/i], he must be so creepy!"[/color] When Marci finished, Roslyn shook her head. Belthagor had tried to change her and that hurt beyond anything she could put into words. He made her helpless and killed her friends. She wouldn't let him get away with it, even if he terrified her. She had the biggest reason out of her friends to ensure he never returned to the world. [color=#cbc66d]"No, Marci. If anyone is kicking Belthagor's ass, it's me. He tried to change me against my will. Killed my friends. I will make sure he regrets not finishing what he started."[/color] Any quivering in her voice had been replaced by a surprising venom that didn't belong in a sweeter nature. [color=#cbc66d]"But I won't shun the help. One problem at a time."[/color] She took a moment to center herself as she smiled meekly. [color=#cbc66d]"You have no idea, Marci. Honestly, I punched a hole in the wall because he pissed me off so much."[/color] If Marceline was taken aback by the shift in Roslyn's voice, she did well not to show it. Rose would bear watching. She would not lose someone close like the Hendlishwoman to a demon. Instead, she focused on the positive. [color=598527]"Well,"[/color] she joked, [color=598527]"now I do."[/color] She nodded as she considered. [color=598527]"You'll use that magic compass - the same one we used for the bodies - to find the sword, won't you?"[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Yeah, of course. I was planning on doing that tomorrow. It was just hard with everything happening to find time to do it."[/color] Roslyn inhaled then picked herself up, [color=#cbc66d]"Now, we need to get that hat sorted before we get riled up again. And Marci... can we have another sleep over? It was the first time in a while I've slept pretty well. "[/color] Marceline considered. The time pressure was building and she was starting to grow a headache. [color=598527]"Long as your chapeau doesn't turn my brain to mush, I'm game. Mi casa es su casa."[/color] She winked and held her hand out for the hat. Roslyn did a bit of rummaging through her stuff until she found it. She turned to face her friend, recalling what she knew of it. [color=#cbc66d]"Okay, so the one thing I do know about it is that it can transfer memories. I caught a roommate stealing from me thanks to it. It seems to have a rest state after use, so I can't use it over and over. "[/color] She then passed it over to Marci. [color=#cbc66d]"You need to keep it on for a few seconds before I can take it back."[/color] Marceline took a moment to study the hat. She could feel the magics within it: scary strong and complex chemical magics, and a particular fear seized her. She had felt magics of this general ilk before. She had felt them when the vulture had laid his hands upon her nine-year-old head and erased a girl named Nina. Instinctively, Marci wrapped her arms around herself and her pulse quickened behind her ears. [color=598527][i]This is not that. This is not that.[/i][/color] She cleared her throat, took a deep breath, and tried to flash Roslyn - who was relying on her and could not have known - a reassuring smile. It settled on her head a bit like Domino and exerted a similar feeling to his hundred little suction cups. Tingles ran through her scalp and then up and down her body, from head to waist and back. She shivered as it worked and did her best to think of times she had learned a new word, childhood grammar lessons, correcting people on their Kerreman: anything that might help her friend, she tried to bring to the fore. Then, she felt a pain between her temples and knew it was time to take the accursed thing off. Her hands wasted no time in plucking it from her head and setting it on her lap. Her world spun and her head throbbed and it took a moment for both to fade. [color=598527]"Well, that was fun!"[/color] she teased, with a shudder, holding the hat back out. [color=598527]"I can confirm that it's safe... if a bit unpleasant."[/color] She rolled her neck. [color=598527]"Your turn!"[/color] Roslyn wished she hadn't asked for Marci's help now. The girl instinctively wrapped her arms around her defensively after investigating the hat. It was like a memory had been triggered and she felt remorse for asking for her friend's help. She knew that look far too well. It had been a habit that never broke, even now. This was cruel of her. To ask Marci to do this when the thing gave her the creeps. It was too late to stop now as she watched her friend place it on her head. [color=#cbc66d]"Liar. I already know how unsettling it is. I'm sorry for putting you through that."[/color] She placed the thing on her head. That familiar discomfort spread across her scalp like fingers crawling across her brain. If it hadn't been the second time she had experienced it, she might've shown a reaction. [color=#cbc66d]"Wie klinge ich?"[/color] (How do I sound?) Roslyn asked, her accent surprisingly voided of her Hendlish origins. Marceline's hands managed to detach themselves from her sides, and she waved dismissively. [color=598527]"It had to be done,"[/color] she declared, [color=598527]"So, we did it."[/color] Then, came the true test, and... well, Marci felt like a bit of a fraud, to be truthful. She'd learned Kerreman first, but had spent so much of her adolescence in Torragon and then in Ersand'Enise, that she hardly felt qualified to offer a fine critique of Rose's pronunciation. She considered, though. [color=598527]"Honestly?"[/color] The tethered shrugged. [color=598527]"You sound completely passable to me."[/color] She nodded. [color=598527]"Now..."[/color] Ugh. She was still a touch hazy, but she needed to switch tracks here. [color=598527]"You're doing research and that could be valuable, but you're trying to get busted before all else, right? Did we have a rat for that in case we needed one?"[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Yes, Already thought of that. Edith. It makes the most sense since she's a deputy and it might take the heat off her after the last attack. Make Karl von Mollern think she's still loyal. If he's apart of it."[/color] Roslyn took off the hat as she placed it back in her pack for now. [color=#cbc66d]"I'm going to stick to the story that I'm the only one that might suspect the demonic ties. That means I have to go alone."[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Perk about being a tethered, I know you'll be my guardian angel. And for that, I love you."[/color] Roslyn didn't hesitate taking another hug. [color=#cbc66d]"Just remember, you're also my anchor. I'm not sure what I would do without friends like you, Xiuyang and the rest."[/color] After a bit, she pulled back and walked out with Marci. [color=#cbc66d]"Now just one last person to talk to before I retire for the night."[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Perk about being a tethered, I know you'll be my guardian angel. And for that, I love you."[/color] Roslyn didn't hesitate taking another hug. [color=#cbc66d]"Just remember, you're also my anchor. I'm not sure what I would do without friends like you, Xiuyang and the rest."[/color] After a bit, she pulled back and walked out with Marci. [color=#cbc66d]"Now just one last person to talk to before I retire for the night."[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"Perk about being a tethered, I know you'll be my guardian angel. And for that, I love you."[/color] Roslyn didn't hesitate taking another hug. [color=#cbc66d]"Just remember, you're also my anchor. I'm not sure what I would do without friends like you, Xiuyang and the rest."[/color] After a bit, she pulled back and walked out with Marci. [color=#cbc66d]"Now just one last person to talk to before I retire for the night."[/color][/hider][h2]Earnest Apology and Fragile Trust [/h2][hider=**************] Marceline smirked ruefully, knowing who that was. [color=598527]"Buena suerte, amiga."[/color] She shook her head. [color=598527]"My loyalty doesn't extend [i]quite[/i] that far."[/color] She pinched a bit of air, sighed as she reached the top of the steps and, then, as Roslyn descended, gathered energy and floated down over the guardrail moments later. Johann jumped on the spot, apparently not having noticed Roslyn. [color=goldenrod]"Oh! Rosy!"[/color] he exclaimed, once he'd twisted on the spot. [color=goldenrod]"What can I do for you? I hope my cooking didn't make you sick, or..."[/color] He grimaced. [color=goldenrod]"Was it about that other thing? I'm sorry if I somewhat... lost myself there."[/color] He shook his head regretfully. Johann shrugged easily enough. [color=goldenrod]"Oh, I wouldn't worry about it,"[/color] he replied, waving the issue off. [color=goldenrod]"Sure, you could've said it better. Your timing definitely left something to be desired,"[/color] he snorted, [color=goldenrod]"but that was mostly my fault."[/color] He tapped his solar plexus and nodded slowly, rocking back and forth a bit as he did so. [color=goldenrod]"I was out of sorts. Margarethe -"[/color] His voice sunk. [color=goldenrod]" -might look harmless, but she isn't, and her appearing like that and trying to work her charms on you..."[/color] He pursed his lips and shrugged again. [color=goldenrod]"It just put me in a state of mind."[/color] He flashed her a reassuring smile. [color=goldenrod]"I know you're good people, Rose. Don't worry, and thank you."[/color] He gestured for her to come in for a hug if she wanted. [color=#cbc66d][i]I wonder about that sometimes...[/i][/color] Roslyn thought, but didn't air her doubts aloud. No one needed to hear her insecurities. [color=#cbc66d]"That's something I can agree with you on. It's sadly a flaw I'm struggling to work on."[/color] Her expression softened at his statement, stirring up her nurturing nature and curiosity. The truth about Margarethe and him was something to deal with after everything else. When he gestured for a hug, she wasted no time. Perhaps it was the raw emotional state she was still in or that human need. No matter the reason, she returned the same energy as he gave. [color=#cbc66d]"My brother would be chiding me for this behavior. Saying how childish it is, but thankfully he's not here. Thank you and don't let her ruin your mood. Things will turn out all right in the end."[/color] Johann released her when they were finished, taking a deep breath and nodding. [color=goldenrod]"Oh, and tomorrow, you're... doing something, right?"[/color] He'd overheard bits and pieces and was, naturally, curious. [i][color=#cbc66d]Why didn't I put up a sonic bubble? How much did he hear? Or was it from the earlier conversation?[/color][/i] Roslyn narrowed her eyes slightly, but kept her smile. Meanwhile, her mind panicked at what to say. Why was lying so hard? Ultimately she decided on a little bit of the truth rather than a whole lie. The last thing she wanted was to entice his interest too much. [color=#cbc66d]"Johann, have you been eavesdropping on me?"[/color] It wasn't a harsh accusation, but rather a small playful tease. It was a small page from Xiuyang's book that she hoped worked. She didn't give him a chance to answer. [color=#cbc66d]"I'm a little flattered, truthfully. I figured I would try and distract myself. I am not eager to sit in the Inn all day."[/color] [color=goldenrod]"Well, a fellow can't help but overhear things in such a small space, and we're all sharing among allies, right?"[/color] He chuckled. [color=goldenrod]"So, what's so distracting that you're willing to walk out into a snowstorm for it?"[/color] He paired his question with a smile. [color=goldenrod]"You've piqued my curiosity."[/color] [i][color=#cbc66d]So much for that working. [/color][/i] Roslyn's smile dropped a bit as Johann seemed hooked on what she had said. Inwardly, she debated on how trustworthy the man before her was. She wished she could simply vanish from the conversation and melt into the floor. Alas, she wasn't a greyborn or even a proper temporal mage so she couldn't get away with it. Roslyn took a deep breath. [color=#cbc66d]"It's... hard to explain. Not sure you'll believe me if I told you. Though hearing what you just said, that does sound silly doesn't it?"[/color] She tried her best to hide her discomfort by keeping her hands on her skirt. The conversation had gotten away from her now. Johann furrowed his brow for a moment, considering. Then, he cracked a sheepish smile and shrugged. [color=goldenrod]"Sorry to have made you uncomfortable."[/color] He shook his head and began to rise. [color=goldenrod]"People are entitled to their secrets and I wouldn't fault you for keeping one."[/color] Roslyn had braced for him to pry some more, but thankfully he didn't. Her hands released her skirt and settled down at her sides. [color=#cbc66d]"I don't blame you for being curious." [/color]She considered something for a moment. [color=#cbc66d]"I'm hoping the cold air might help and afterwards -if you're around- maybe we can sit down and talk. I feel like I barely know you, really."[/color] Johann shrugged good-naturedly. [color=goldenrod]"Well, I try not to air my dirty laundry out."[/color] He scratched at the back of his head and let out a rueful chuckle. [color=goldenrod]"Except when it gets out beyond my control. The truth is,"[/color] he sighed, [color=goldenrod]"I'm not all that interesting, bit of drama with an old 'friend' aside."[/color] he nodded amenably. [color=goldenrod]"We should talk sometime,"[/color] he agreed. [color=goldenrod]"Just... promise me you'll be careful around Margarethe."[/color] [color=#cbc66d]"You're talking to a simple, brewery girl. Nothing amazing there or interesting to look at really."[/color] A little hurt slipped through her words as she couldn't help, but think of Vel. His letters had ceased a month or two after he didn't return. She didn't need to know why. It was like he found better prospects. At least that's what she assumed. Her expression took on a more serious one. [color=#cbc66d]"I don't think she'll try anything after being friendly, but I promise. You have a good evening, Johann."[/color][/hider]