[color=lightgray][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/R1b4iCE.png[/img] [img]https://i.ibb.co/ycycMBXJ/Tommy-pre-meeting.png[/img] [img]https://i.ibb.co/S4tvw0RW/Chat-GPT-Image-Jan-23-2026-08-37-31-PM.png[/img] [/center] The early morning breeze glides around the keep urged forward by the rising sun. The chill of the night air gave way to the jungle's humidity as the port town settled into its daily activities. The beams of light broken by structure and foliage crept lower and lower as if to remind you that time will not wait. Less than two hours remain until the boat is ready. Tommy leans against what he assumes is a home at the edge of the path leading back to the rest of the shanty. In his haste to escape the keep before the others had made their exit, he failed to check if the structure was occupied. By now the thumping in his chest had made his ears ring and dampened his perception. The anxiety he had hoped to alleviate by tailing and vetting the rest of the gem laid survivors welled up as he heard the wood and iron doors collide shut from up the road. With a deep breath to try and calm his nerves Tommy could only hope any frustration from the meeting would not find its way to his throat. Meanwhile, Arya’s fists were clenched as she followed the group. The name-calling towards her and the conflict had made her so uneasy that she thought she might faint. Once the Prince shouted and swore at them, she had nearly jumped out of her skin. Her heart hammered so loudly she thought it might be audible to the others. Tears had welled up in her eyes as she hurried after the group. She pressed a hand to her mouth to muffle her fear and shrank into her hood, as if it might hide her completely. Stella’s talons were gripping her shoulders tightly, but she didn’t dare acknowledge her, lest they found out about her bird. Once outside and away from the pirates safely, Arya collapsed onto a nearby boulder and turned away from the group. Sweat gripped every ounce of her skin. She grasped her hair and vomited once over the side of it. Then, she began hyperventilating until Stella pecked at her head and grounded her. It took a few minutes, but she was able to regain control. Once she had her composure and was clean again, Arya turned to the group. [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/bQRk3Wj.png[/img] [/center] Menzai quietly followed the group, having retreated into his mind, thinking over all that had gone down. It left him feeling highly frustrated and perturbed by the way the prince had all but dominated the situation and left them with little option and little time to formulate any proper plan, the shrewd bastard. The reveal of the hidden men was merely a power play to prove his position untouchable, but the wolf saw this as a mistake; extending his hand unnecessarily, which gave them a better understanding of what they were dealing with, though he surmised the man still held more up his sleeves, much to his distaste. Upon exiting, the fresh outside air pulled the reflective wolf from his thoughts to find the others in a similar disgruntled state, though Arya appeared to be in worse shape, seeing her collapsed on a nearby boulder. He studied the hyperventilating tiefling with furrowed concern; the sounds of retching caught his flicking ears and prompted an unsavory wrinkle of the nose, which prompted him to turn away slightly, not wishing to appear rude. Alarmed by her deteriorating state, Menzai had stepped over to offer her a handkerchief, regretful that he had no water. He intended to offer encouraging words, but Stella seemed to have things handled, though he was unsure if he approved of the pecking. Meiyu regarded Arya’s collapse with the same interest she might give a dying insect. Vomit, frantic breaths, white-knuckled grip on a bird—weakness paraded for all to see. The girl was prey, soft and trembling, already marked for culling by the world she’d stumbled into. If a scrap of noise from a boy perched on a pile of refuse could shatter her, she would not survive a single dusk on cursed soil. Corin had found the entire exchange strange. A man invites people into his own home, tells them, [color=#6C2DC7]“Hey, I’ve got your friends prisoner, but it’s okay because I didn’t have them killed.”[/color] Thanks for practicing basic human morality, I suppose. [color=#6C2DC7]“Oh, by the way, get this thing for me, or I’ll lift the protection order.”[/color] In other words, he’ll tell them to gut the innocent people like pigs. There was hardly any effort for that man to call back his horde of mages and sellswords, much less so to summon them forth in that bravado-inspired display like he just did. The old man sighed. [color=#6C2DC7]“I suppose we are left with little choice then. I for one say we-”[/color] The group had begun its cadence down the road and away from the pirate den. They were likely well out of ear shot by this point but he still made an effort to create [i]some[/i] distance before saying much else. [color=#6C2DC7]“I imagine everyone here is in agreement on what to do? If not, I think we should deliberate now and figure out what in the hells we plan to do.”[/color] Arya listened to Corin, who voiced every bit of indignation she had about their meeting. [color=7998CE]“I… I don’t know what to do–we need to get away, but this island sounds too dangerous.”[/color] Fear gripped her voice as she trembled. Arya removed Stella from her perch on her shoulder and into her arms to grip. The eagle complied and listened intently. [Color=tan]“There’s little to deliberate.”[/color] Malik's tone was calm and matter-of-fact. [Color=tan]“The prince controls this den, our ship, and the survivors. Refusal gains us nothing except the opportunity to discover whether or not his threats are sincere.”[/color] He side-eyed Corin as he walked beside him, wearing his stoic stone expression as if it were carved onto his visage. [Color=tan]“The wiser discussion is how we prepare for a place everyone else here fears.”[/color] [color=7998CE]“We are prisoners. If we refuse, the innocent lives of those on the ship are gone, and if we fail, then we’re gone, and the survivors are still out of luck.”[/color] Her voice trembled, but she continued. [color=7998CE]“...There is little way for us to get off this island without the airship. I don’t… I don’t understand the cruelty.”[/color] Anger sparked in her eyes as she looked at Corin and Malik. [color=7998CE]“I don’t think we have much choice. I… I don’t think we can say no, but every part of me wants to.”[/color] She turned away and pulled the cloak tighter around Stella and herself. [Color=tan]“[i]Ayra[/i].”[/color] Malik called sternly. [Color=tan]“None of us wanted this.”[/color] Malik’s gaze drifted westward, as though he could see Khovaire itself from this distance. [Color=tan]“But panic will not carry us from the Principalities. You are an archer. Steady yourself… People are counting on you, are they not?”[/color] He had turned to face the tiefling with a raised eyebrow. [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/6fSUjpt.png[/img] [/center] Arya glanced at Malik, and for a moment, she almost glared. This man did not know anything about her. He did not have the right to judge her reaction. Still, he was right that people were relying on her–but they weren’t here. She scowled, took deep breaths, and turned away from the group. The wolf contemplated and ruminated on what to say after hearing three discuss their thoughts; each of them sharing a great disdain against being used, but were trapped within the Prince’s palm at the time being. A dissatisfied huff of his nose as he took a step towards the tanned elf. “[color=ee82ed]There is no need to press her, Malik. Allow Arya some time to breathe. We have all been put through a most strenuous meeting.[/color]” The wolf spoke up, maintaining his stoic composure, then partially turned towards the tiefling who offered him a nervous smile out of appreciation for defending her. “[color=ee82ed]But what Malik said is true. People are relying on us, and our time is short. I understand the difficulties grappling with the Prince’s deal, outlandishly cruel and recklessly disregarding of lives it may be for us.[/color]” He paused, growling his own frustrations briefly before motioning towards Corin. “[color=ee82ed]As Sir Corin had put it, well painting the situation we find ourselves in, we have little choice but to be in agreement, loath as I am to say so.[/color]“ Shaking his head with a wary sigh. “[color=ee82ed]If we must do this, then keep in mind the survivors we must fight for; escape from this island would be meaningless were we to abandon those innocent, though I fear for the unknown dangers of this island, and were that we were given more time.[/color]” Further proof that the prince did not care one way or another how their expedition turned out. “[color=ee82ed]And there is the fact that the Prince knows of our shards. A most worrying added development, as he may intend to take them, and his desire for this trinket is the only thing holding back his hand.[/color]” He rubbed at the bridge of his nose. “[color=ee82ed]We find ourselves at a most unfortunate disadvantage, though I have no intention of letting it stand. We must work together to find the prince’s weakness…some form of leverage to ensure he keeps his word, for a pirate’s promise means little, and I expect betrayal awaiting us otherwise.[/color]” The prospect did not sit well with him, but it needed to be brought forward to the group that betrayal was likely plausible. Meiyu’s golden eyes slid to the men, their bickering little more than background noise. A thin, humorless smile ghosted across her lips. [color=7DBC89]“You flatter yourselves,”[/color] Meiyu cut in, her voice sliding into the conversation like a razor through silk. [color=7DBC89]“If the Prince wanted the stones in our flesh, he would have peeled them out right then and there. He had the numbers, the steel, the mages, and the absolute element of surprise, even if some suspected he wasn’t alone. He could have slaughtered us on the floor, or more likely, locked us in a deep hole to experiment on us one by one before ripping the gems out for his own loyal cutthroats. Perhaps this little voyage is a test to see what these shards can do before he makes a move, but it still gives us the freedom to discover their power and prepare.”[/color] The wolf growled softly towards the snaketress, cutting words though there was truth in her mocking tone. Nothing was preventing the prince from simply doing away with them. Perhaps, he mused, the prince was curious about the shards' powers, though feared the potential fallout were he to press them then. “[color=ee82ed]Then we must use this freedom to discern these shards' capabilities as well.[/color]” He added softly on a pondering breath. Corin held up his hands in a brief rebuttal. [color=#6C2DC7]“All I asked was if we were in agreement, and if [i]not[/i] we deliberate.”[/color] He crossed his arms and heaved a heavy sigh. [color=#6C2DC7]“So it sounds like those three are in agreement, so what say the others? And once we get a resounding yes from all, [i]then[/i] we can talk about the much wiser discussion of what to do next.”[/color] Corin shot Malik a less-stoic look of annoyance. He was not a fan of this new version of Minerva. [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/mkX3JnH.jpeg[/img] [/center] While the others spoke, Bastion’s gaze lowered to a tiny hermit crab making its slow, determined way across the uneven stones near his foot. Its shell was too large for its little body, or at least Bastion thought it looked too large, and every few steps the creature seemed to wobble beneath the weight of it. When a voice rose too sharply among the group, the crab vanished into itself, legs and claws tucked away until only the shell remained. The Warforged’s gaze lifted to meet Corin as the man finished his words with a request to hear from the others. Bastion had thoughts, he had frustrations with the so-called prince and the situation placed before them… Yet really, he didn’t believe any of that mattered. So instead of adding to the pile of opinions, he spoke the only truth that really meant a damn to him. [color=30A4D9]“Where you all go… I follow.”[/color] He answered. His optics scanned across the group briefly before his solemn gaze returned downwards to where the little crab had been. It was gone, but like the weight of the far-too-large shell the little critter carried, Bastion felt heavy with the bulk of what he feared was on the horizon. [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/F8yTBdp.png[/img] [/center] Meiyu moved with slow, serpentine grace, gliding past their outrage as if it were smoke she could simply walk through. [color=7DBC89]“The Prince actually gave us a valuable gift,”[/color] she murmured, her gaze drifting toward Malik and Corin. [color=7DBC89]“He revealed that our shards make us a beacon. To anyone with an ounce of arcane sight, we are glowing lighthouses. This is very useful information, though quite annoying.”[/color] She sighed in irritation before continuing her thoughts. [color=7DBC89]“Frankly, the boy has been a remarkably kind ruler. We live in a world that just dragged itself out of a massive war; it is far swifter and safer to eliminate outsiders than to let them live. Yet he gave us protection and a fair exchange. If we walk away from his terms, that protection lifts, the survivors die, and we will be hunted. We could try to find someone else to get us out of here, as I initially intended, but I see how unwise that is now. If you try to find another captain to sneak you off this island, you'll more than likely find yourselves isolated in the middle of the ocean, having your throats slit and your bodies dumped into the sea.”[/color] She smoothed the dark silk at her hip, mind already counting down the seconds, every heartbeat a drumbeat toward the next move. [color=7DBC89]“The Prince warned us that we can be seen from miles away, and I despise having a target on my chest—especially if we are sailing straight toward a likely magical island where a beacon like this likely spells doom. I am going to use what time we have left to find something in this port to mask this little magical flare.”[/color] Phia had approached the group silently, a small brown bird perched upon her fingers. She brushed her thumb gently over its feathered chest and murmured softly to it. Then she lifted the bird close, pressed a kiss to the top of its head, and raised her hand to let it spring into the morning air, its wings carrying it up toward the rooftops. Only then did Phia turn her attention fully to the group, worry still lingering in her amber eyes as she stepped forward from behind Meiyu. [color=F97FCA]“I heard a little,”[/color] she announced softly, her fingers settling around her staff. [color=F97FCA]“We should seek the shops for something to mask these little magical flares, then?”[/color] [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/bXEJIHg.png[/img] [/center] The wolf, upon noticing Phia, rejoined the group, hopeful the momentary solitude had helped calm her mood. With a quiet, practice glide, he appeared at her side, giving an appreciative nod towards the shop suggestion, then whispered comforting words and a promise to gather some food and water before they set off. “[color=ee82ed]If you have need of anything, sweet Phia, let me know. For now, I must muse on how we approach dealing with this mysterious island’s fog.[/color]” With a soft brush of her arm, an inspecting check, taking note of worry in her eyes, and Phia had gently rubbed Menzai’s arm comfortingly in turn. A momentary studying peek in Malik’s direction before stepping away, moving his way to the back, where he spent the walk in deep thought, thinking of the meeting and what connections or purpose the shard had in all of this. Though Phia did wonder how they would know if whatever they purchased worked, if they themselves could not see the flares. A slightly raised eyebrow from Malik showed that he too had inquiries on the matter, but all in all, he was content with the direction of the discussion. His gaze shifted from Meiyu to Phia, conversationally side-stepping the look he had received from Corin. [Color=tan]“If such a thing can be purchased, we should not delay,”[/color] Malik addressed to the others before his eyes shifted towards Meiyu. [Color=tan]“Do you know what we are searching for, Meiyu? Or do we proceed blindly?”[/color] He inquired genuinely, naturally pushing efforts to the next possible objective. Tommy could not help himself, he ground the dirt under his boot in anticipation as the group slowly closed the distance between them. He knew unless the serpent Meiyu had announced the interloper, the others would pay a random child no mind. He could not afford running the risk that they would not approach on their own, not that he had expected it anyway. Disregarding [i]her[/i], Tommy would have to strike up conversation as they passed with the hope that he could earn enough time to unveil the shard he shares with the rest of them. Out of the corner of his eye he could see them, halfway between him and the keep as they approached. Only time will tell if using Tommy for this proves to be a boon or bane. Drawing nearer, Meiyu scanned the group's surroundings as they went along, searching for a specific Little Fox as she addressed Malik. [color=7DBC89]“Blindly is an ugly word. Let's call it a hunt,”[/color] she murmured [color=7DBC89]“The cheapest shield is lead. A thick lining will choke out basic magic, though if what the Prince said is true, the most we can hope for with that is that it dampens the magic. We’ll have to get creative if you don't want to walk around wrapped in heavy scrap. It can be effective, but crude.”[/color] She glanced at the nearby shopfronts, her eyes calculating. [color=7DBC89]“A proper abjuration charm or spell would be better, but in a port like this, something strong enough to mask these shards will cost a king’s ransom. We’ll likely have to pool every coin we own to afford even one. It won't be easy.”[/color] And that’s when she spotted him a ways down the road, but still she said nothing to the others. Let them discover him on their own. [color=7DBC89]“Shall we see what the locals are selling?”[/color] [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/0RC28y0.png[/img] [/center] [color=#6C2DC7]“I will take everyone’s banter as being in agreement then.”[/color] Corin reached out to smack Bastion on the back with a firm friendly touch. [color=#6C2DC7]“Where you go, I go, battle buddy.”[/color] He walked in tow with everyone, pondering the thought of hiding their magical presence with dampeners. Could such a thing be made? If so, what would the framework be like? Where would the spare magical power be stored? Then Corin began to mutter under his breath, lost in thought about the intricacies of magical dampeners before blurting out. [color=#6C2DC7]“So magical dampeners, then we go meet our ship friend?”[/color] Menzai had been lost in thought, pondering over what Meiyu had mentioned about beacons, curious about the fact that they were potentially glowing when he had assumed them empty of magic, but the prince’s acknowledgement of the shards and hidden associate proved the case otherwise. It irked him, being unable to notice or track them; a spell likely disguised them, and yet they were exposed against their will by shards assumedly meant to help? And were there to be anything on the island capable of sensing magic, then they were at a further disadvantage than he feared, with the fog leaving them blind. A place where his enhanced senses would serve little use, much to the wolf’s frustration. To be offered a most fascinating hunt of intrigue and magical mysteries, but forced to go with lives at risk and survival, and made horribly stacked against their favor, it soured him and left him feeling cheated. As he thought on how to proceed, the soft metallic clang of Corin’s hand striking Bastion snapped the wolf from his musing; his ears flicked at the gem knight’s mention of magic dampeners, which pulled his attention to the magic shop. For a moment, he peered into the shop before glowering through the window as if trying to see something, when an idea came to mind as he shifted his left eye under the lid. Menzai’s brows furrowed, finding the prospect of testing it here now in a public space or taking proper precautions, fearing how it could react. [center] [img]https://i.imgur.com/W0j20Ns.png[/img] [/center] With a disconcerting sigh, the wolf turned back towards the group, holding up a hand. “[color=ee82ed]Pardon the interruptions, everyone. But, before we proceed, there is…something I wish to try, that is, concerning the shards. If what Lady Meiyu said about them being beacons to be true, then the dampeners may prove ineffectual and lacking without some understanding of what they are omitting or leave us open to whatever danger lurks on the island.[/color]” Pausing as if hesitant to suggest it, the risk proved worrisome, though the pressure of time gave Menzai little choice and any chance to gain info, anything to aid in the group’s survival. A sobering shake of the head, feeling a slight tingle in his left eye, almost as if a spark of anticipation felt. “[color=ee82ed]I have an ability that may enable me to activate...hm, or awaken might be more apt? With it, I may be capable of seeing what those mages witnessed.[/color]” The raised hand moved to scratch at his chin gently. “[color=ee82ed] I cannot say how the shard will react. So, I wish to leave it to the group to decide whether to attempt it, though, know that I intended to do such testing at a more appropriate time, but time is what we lack currently.[/color]” Sensing Arya’s calmer emotions, Stella had stopped pecking at her head and was now offering solace by wrapping her wings around her. The idea of hiding their glowing shards was reasonable. Arya sniffled, wiped her eyes, and turned back to face the group. She remained quiet until her voice was steady. [color=7998CE]“I agree on hiding our shards… and that we are unfortunately left with no other option.”[/color] Arya commented finally, and let out a heavy sigh. Anxiety gripped her like a blanket. Stella folded her wings, sensing the calmer emotions from the tiefling. Arya glanced down at her arrow supply. [color=7998CE]“I would like to purchase more arrows, and maybe another weapon.”[/color] Bastion had been listening as his companions discussed their options, speaking of spells, precautions, and possible ways to mask the strange aura of the fragments now bound to them. They were practical concerns, and yet Bastion found he had nothing meaningful to add. The longer the conversation continued, the further his mind drifted from the present, pulled backward through memories stored too clearly within his arcane processors. A boy’s laughter echoed somewhere in him. The sound of quick footsteps through polished halls. A voice bright with endless curiosity, asking questions Bastion had never known how to answer. [i]Do you dream, Bastion? What would you do if you were not assigned to me? Do you think warforged get lonely?[/i] The memories came with cruel clarity: afternoon sunlight across a training yard, a wooden practice sword held in small hands, a grin full of mischief, the weight of a promise sworn in silence, and the heavier weight of the failure that followed. It was not until Bastion felt a small tapping against his metal frame that the world around him returned. Once. Twice. Three times. He looked down, and for a moment, the present fell away entirely. Standing before him was a boy no older than 12, with soft lavender hair falling in loose, elegant waves around a youthful face. Warm amber eyes looked up at him with a curiosity Bastion knew too well. He wore the fine clothes of a young noble, though rumpled in that familiar way, as if he had once again escaped his tutors in search of trouble. Prince Tirian. His charge. His friend. The boy he had failed. For one impossible heartbeat, Bastion almost believed it was truly him. That the years had folded backward. That the Mourning had never come. That he had kept his promise after all. Then the image wavered. The lavender hair blurred. The amber eyes shifted. Tirian’s face dissolved like mist beneath morning light, and in his place stood someone else entirely. Not the ghost of Bastion’s past, but a stranger in the present, waiting before him. Bastion stared down at them, silent, as the ache of memory slowly loosened its grip. [i]Tap tap tap[/i] Tommy's finger tapped on the warforged that had stopped in thought a few steps away from where he was waiting for the group to pass. He did not know they could do that. With the warforged staring him in the face there was officially no backing out now. [color=#50C878]“Excuse me mister, are you okay?”[/color] Bastion stared at him for longer than he had expected, unmoving, silent, almost as if he was analysing Tommy. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/8LvDHYrd/f0ee528e-3bdf-49ff-9828-8aac4cb85eda.png[/img][/center] The new voice had stolen Phia’s attention, and despite the worry weighing on her, her amber eyes lit up with enthusiasm. [color=F97FCA]“Hello, little friend,”[/color] Phia stepped closer and lowered herself into a crouch beside him, careful not to position herself too close. With a warm smile, she unfastened a small pouch from her belt and opened it to reveal a collection of colorful marbles, each one shining under the morning sun. She held the bag open for him to select one. Corin looked past Bastion at the small…child? There was something off about him. He couldn’t place a finger on it. But calling this boy a child felt wrong. Calling him a boy felt…wrong. Corin turned to face him and offered a nod in acknowledgment of his existence. [color=#6C2DC7]“And what might your name be, friend?”[/color] He chose a broad term as he waited to see which marble he would pick from Phia’s hand, a shred of whimsical curiosity. Menzai waited to see what the group would say to his suggestions, pondering if he could even pull it off. The sound of metal tapping elicited a curious flick of his ears as he turned his gaze towards Bastion, finding the warforged staring down at something as if lost in thought, or in a trance, seemed more precise. Lowering his gaze with a queer raise of the brow at what appeared to be a child at first look, which left the wolf curiously confused. Had he been the source of the small footsteps he heard at times? He observed the small one silently as the group’s attention quickly surrounded him. Phia moved to his side within seconds, offering one of her marbles, a sign they could be trusted. Then Corin spoke up, asking the question likely on each of their minds. Tommy recoiled at Phia's sudden approach. He took a sudden step back as she knelt down, hand still held aloft from getting Bastion's attention while the other instinctively grabbed at his shirt. Despite her gentle movement and warm demeanor he still observed her with caution. She displayed her pouch of marbles in such a way he knew it was an offering. The still aloft hand gently reached to the bag retrieving a yellow marble he likened to the sun or bright blonde hair. He looked at it for a moment like it summoned a memory. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/whGRWbs8/781163f5-5b98-4368-b135-6e8ffcf834d0.png[/img][/center] [Color=tan]“The better question is, who are you with?”[/color] Malik's tone cut through Phia's softness and pushed Corin's friendliness aside. The group was slowly gathering around Tommy, Corin and the new elf asked him questions almost in unison. A shnort of laughter burst out from the Yuan-ti woman that quickly turned into a cough, then a sniffle, then her rubbing her nose to hide her amused smirk. [color=7DBC89]”Sorry,[/color] she began, deadpan. [color=7DBC89]”Allergies.”[/color] Meiyu's outburst had drawn his attention, she said it was allergies but he could swear she laughed. Regardless he was being questioned and refusing to respond would be of no benefit. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/CK09M5HS/ff604bdc-a82c-4147-8b3c-bb1d314f0399.png[/img][/center] [color=#50C878]“I… My name is Tommy.”[/color] Menzai, noticing the small ones' anxiety around them, had opted to stay back for the moment, concerned that his appearance might only frighten them. Figuring it's better to give Tommy some time to adjust to the group, a weird and possibly scary bunch, they must look to outsiders. While Malik’s cutting question had given him pause to inspect the area, his ears and nose were scouring for any possible hiding allies, taking in Tommy’s scent only to have his nose crinkle. Finding no traces of hidden allies, but found an unpleasant odor that showed they had not bathed for some time. The wolf had only now taken notice of how filthy some of the group smelled after all the rushing and treks under the hot sun. He had no desire to spend the travels surrounded by this rank aroma and became determined to request some time to bathe before setting off. He withheld for now, with the group still fascinatedly curious with Tommy as he resisted the urge to cover his face with his sleeve, not wishing to give the wrong impression before even introducing himself. As he worked to keep himself composed, a shnorting laugh called his attention to the snaketress who had quickly tried covering up with the flimsy excuse of allergies and gave her a brief, pointed look, disapproving of the snickering. Bastion, slow to react in the moment, carefully lowered himself down to one knee, gentle with the motion. He had learned long ago that his size could frighten those who were small. His optics softened as much as arcane glass and crafted metal could manage. [color=30A4D9]“Hello, Tommy.”[/color] He said softly. Bastion’s gaze drifted briefly to the marble in the boy’s hand, bright and golden beneath the morning light. For one painful second, he remembered another child holding another small treasure in a similar way. Then he pushed the memory down, not too far away, but into its rightful place. [color=30A4D9]“You asked if I was okay.”[/color] His head tilted slightly, as though the question itself was one he had not expected to receive. [color=30A4D9]“That was kind of you.”[/color] He looked over the boy once more, not with suspicion, but with concern. The others had asked their own questions, and perhaps they were right to do so. This place was dangerous. Prince Dane had made that abundantly clear. But Bastion could not bring himself to treat a potentially frightened child as just another threat. [color=30A4D9]“I am…functioning.”[/color] A pause followed, and then, with a bit more honesty, he added, [color=30A4D9]“Though I do not know if that is the same thing.”[/color] His gaze lifted briefly to Malik, Phia, then Corin, then the others, acknowledging their caution. When he looked back to Tommy, his voice remained even. [color=30A4D9]“My friends are asking because this is not a safe place, and we have been given many reasons to be careful. But you came to us anyway.”[/color] Bastion’s hand rose slowly, palm open, not reaching for the boy, but rather offering him a gesture of peace. [color=30A4D9]“Are you alone, Tommy?”[/color] [i]Are you alone?[/i] Of all the questions, that one struck him. Tommy had ignored Malik but something about Bastion saying it felt like it targeted something he had suppressed. [color=#50C878]“Alone?”[/color] Tommy clutched the marble in his hand and pressed it into his chest. In some ways no, but he knew what they meant. He felt small pondering the question deeper than intended, a sense of gloom welled up as his mind dug for anything that would allow him to reject the notion. But nothing came, despite the life he wanted and the steps he had taken. He knew it was true… he was alone. [sub][color=#50C878]“I guess, I am.”[/color][/sub] Tommy said in a meek whisper not wanting to say it out loud. Not for their sake, but for his. Something resonated in the back of his mind, bolstering his confidence. [color=#50C878]“Just me… sir.”[/color] Tommy said directly to Bastion, reaching out to touch his outstretched hand. Bastion took it, offering him the gentlest handshake a Warforged could possibly give. Arya observed the situation and the small child. She watched Meiyu shnorting with laughter suppressed as a cough, and wondered what had her in hysterics. That would be a question for later. She watched the group crowd around him and remained on the outskirts. Stella chirped in her ear. [color=lightskyblue]”What is he doing here?”[/color] [color=7998CE]“I don’t know.”[/color] Arya hesitated. For a split second, the group was focused on Tommy. A quick run to her right would separate her, and maybe she could find her own way home. After all, tracking and survival were her speciality. The thought was quelled by Stella adjusting her grip on her shoulder and then pecking her head to go investigate. Arya sighed, a long drawn out one, and moved towards Tommy. She listened to the others quietly and then, she looked down at Tommy. [color=7998CE]“Are you a child? How did you end up here?”[/color] She paused, then glanced at the group. Her voice became quieter, as she glanced around then addressed the others. [color=7998CE]“How do we know this isn't some weird test or bait by the Pirate Prince?”[/color] A very audible sigh escaped Malik after hearing her final question. [Color=tan]“The Prince already tested us, Arya. Most were just too trapped to notice.”[/color] Malik’s gaze focused on Tommy. Arya glanced at him and scowled. Where was Wendel? [Color=tan]“I see little reason for him to employ [i]Tommy[/i], who has only managed to slow us down.”[/color] His gaze washed over the entire halted group only to return to the “boy.” [Color=tan]“Reasonably so… But we have other priorities.”[/color] [Color=tan]“Tommy,”[/color] there was neither pity or suspicion in Malik’s tone. [Color=tan]“If you are truly alone, heed my words for your own survival here in this [i]place[/i]. Port Verge rewards caution. Stay to the crowded areas and remember this above all else… In Port Verge, nothing is free.”[/color] Malik gave him a firm nod before stepping off. [Color=tan]“Let us not dally here too long.”[/color] Bastion watched as the elf began moving away, remaining close to Tommy as to keep him safe and sound given the way his companions had already begun bombarding the poor child with questions and advice. The new arrival Malik spoke in a way that Tommy found dismissive. Now of all times he found himself wishing he got the feline instead of this jerk. Although at this moment he bit his tongue and decided to ask about the fate of Minerva later. Although Malik dismissing Arya’s theory about being a spy for the prince was welcome. Phia did not quite agree with that notion. [color=F97FCA]“Hello Tommy.”[/color] She greeted him softly. [color=F97FCA]“My name is Phia.”[/color] She smiled at him, then tilted her head as she spoke once more. [color=F97FCA]“Do you know the location of your mother and father? …I can walk you to them.”[/color] [color=7998CE]“I agree with Phia,”[/color] Arya added, and moved to her side. [color=7998CE]“you’re alone, right? How did you get here in this den of thieves?”[/color] She glanced around quickly to see if anyone was watching, then turned back to the small boy. She was unwilling to add her name, so she did not add onto the greeting. Phias questioned the location of his parents, something he had not thought about in a long time. He really didn’t have an excuse for that one. All that left him with was the truth, but that was not something he was willing to share. [color=#50C878]“I don’t have those, Mrs. Phia.”[/color] With more members slowly surrounding him Tommy had turned to face Phia and had absentmindedly started slowly backing into Bastion. The Warforged placed a hand on the boy’s shoulder to steady Tommy and to let him know that he was right there and would allow no harm to come to him. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/Z6YLgSyB/bdb34296-ca9b-40e7-b37a-f419bbaeb572.png[/img][/center] Menzai continued to observe and listen to the bouts of questions voiced by the group. He felt for the small one being possibly alone, as Bastion had brought up something he knew well, while Arya had put forth the possibility of another test by the prince. Mallik had shot that down, though in an unneeded, condescending tone; the tanned elf continued to have him wish for Wendel, even Minerva..almost. Shaking his head as he returned his attention to Tommy, Phia, and Arya, asking sweetly under the assumption he was a child. “[color=ee82ed]I do not think Sir Tommy here is as young as his small stature and youthful appearance seem, Sweet Phia.[/color]” Menzai spoke up softly as he approached slowly to stand across from where the ladies were, a step further than they so as not to overcrowd them. Then he gently lowered to his knees to make himself eye level, where he stared at Tommy for a long moment, pondering his questions. “[color=ee82ed]Greetings, Sir Tommy, my name is Menzai, and I know these questions must be a lot. So I wish to only add two more that may answer some of the others.[/color]” A curious tilt of the head as his eyes searched his person. “[color=ee82ed]Were you perhaps aboard the ship with us? And, do you have a peculiar shard lodged within you somewhere?[/color]” By now Tommy had fully backed into the kneeling warforged, Menzai was sharp enough to clock the absurdity of a kid suddenly approaching this group of strangers in the pirate den. It might have taken longer if Thomas didn’t return the patchwork shirt this morning. The quality and style of his Stormreach clothes did not match the locals attire at all. But this was the moment he was working up to, he had to reveal his matching accessory but all their questions had fully taken Tommy's attention. [color=#50C878]“um…”[/color] Tommy glanced up at the gem shard embedded in Bastion's chest. The hand he just used to shake Bastion's rose in the air to point at the center of his armor. [color=#50C878]“That?”[/color] He looked back at Menzai waiting for confirmation. Bastion looked down at the fragment that had implanted itself into the sin on his chest. Menzai’s eyes followed the small one backing away towards the kneeling Bastion, a slight frowning crease of the brow, concerned he may have come across a bit too intensely. The wolf looked up to the warforged’s shard pointed out by Tommy and gave a simple nod. “[color=ee82ed] Yes, have you seen such a shard before then?[/color]” He inquired a little more. Meiyu had remained silent after her little “allergy attack”, her arms crossed as her golden eyes flicked between the group. She agreed with Malik—the clock was ticking, and they didn't have time to play babysitter in the dirt. But watching the "child" finally reveal himself slowly was all too entertaining. She took a slow step forward, her smirk returning as she looked directly at Tommy. [color=7DBC89]“So curious, yes?”[/color] Meiyu purred, her voice a smooth, dangerous vibration. [color=7DBC89]“I mean, he certainly didn't tail us all this time just to stare at the iron giant. Go on, Little Fox. I'm curious to finally [I]hear[/I] your little story. That way we can get back to the matter at hand.”[/color] The serpent finally spilled the beans, he figured it was possible but now they all knew he was their unknown shadow she spotted the night before. Or was it before that? With her it was anyone’s guess. [color=#50C878]“I… uh… think.. ”[/color] Tommy struggled to find his words, their impatience was growing on their faces only suppressed his ability to talk unabated. Nerves took hold with Phia and Arya still so close and now Meiyu had joined Corin and Menzai in staring him down for the answer. Tommy turned his head to face each one of them in turn realizing that he had gotten himself surrounded. His knees turned in leaving him stood awkwardly between the small crowd. Even with Malik walking away in dismissal of him did nothing to ease his nerves. Finally his eyes settled onto the hooded face of Arya, the nights sky reflected on her skin reminding him of home. For a moment he felt like he was back home watching stars from the roof of Gideon's house. He reached up to rub at the back of his neck, partly to soothe himself but also looking for the gems resting place in tandem. His fingers brushed along his hair quickly making contact with the gems uneven surface, his gaze snapped to Menzai wide eyed like he just had a realization. Though he would not disclose that it was because he forgot where the gem had embedded itself the day before. Sliding his hand up from his neck to the hairline he lifted the hair behind his left ear exposing the skin beneath. As his head turned right the sun bounced off the jagged gem shard that laid obscured behind his hair the whole time. Bastion stooped down to look at the boy’s fragment closely before peering down at his own chest to compare. Though he said nothing as Tommy spoke once more. [color=#50C878]”I can’t see it, does it look like his?”[/color] Tommy stood still knock kneed with a scrunched face and furrowed brow almost like he didn’t know if he wanted the answer or not. He shut his eyes tight as he waited for anyone to say anything. Meiyu found herself only smirking further as her eyes caught that gem. At that point, she didn't need to wait around any longer. [color=7DBC89]“That's my good little fox. Welcome aboard.”[/color] She said, surprisingly gently, as she walked past him and gave a brief pat on his head, following after Malik. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/v4Thkd4c/da3bdd67-4525-45f0-b27b-4565bbbd889c.png[/img][/center] Tommy flinched under Meiyu's touch, expecting something far worse than a pat on the head. As he watched her walk he felt a little disappointed their little game of hide and seek ended so soon. Phia inched closer on her toes and craned her neck until she caught sight of it: a jagged sapphire gem, just a few inches before his ear. For a few seconds, she watched it glimmer beneath the morning sun, then her smile faltered. Her brows knit together as the prince’s words echoed in her ear. She inched back in quick little movements so that she was positioned right before him once more. As she looked down at the small boy, a memory almost rose from the trenches of her mind, as it always did, only to fall back beneath the surface. All she managed to catch this time was the distant laughter of a child and a flash of a blurry face. [color=F97FCA]“It does.”[/color] Phia confirmed finally after some thought. Then she slowly reached out to offer her hand to take. [color=F97FCA]“ … Would you like me to get you something to eat, Tommy?”[/color] [Color=tan]“Tsk! Bring the boy along or leave him!”[/color] Malik had stopped his advance, completely puzzled as to what was holding the others up. [Color=tan]“We do not have the time to gawk in the streets while we still require preparations.”[/color] He folded his arms over his chest, not leaving any doubt of whether or not he was scolding them. Menzai had watched as Tommy looked to each of them, awkwardly hesitating as if wrestling with whether to answer or not. The way he paused, gazing at Arya’s starry sky-speckled face, had been curious, seeming entranced for a moment, then with a small brush of short-brown hair, revealed a shard embedded in the back of his neck. There had been a saddened crease of Menzai's brows, having his suspicions confirmed, though such a fact sat poorly with him. The wolf did not like the thought of one as young and sweet as Tommy to be stuck carrying one, unknown as their capabilities or purpose still were. His gaze turned to Meiyu, concerned and irked at the fact that they had been tailed, with it going past his notice. A sign he needed to hone his senses further, but taking in Tommy’s appearance; found he could not blame him for not approaching them. Whether it be that he found them intimidating or unable to find the time with how rushed the group had been of late, so he saw no need to be angry at the small one. Instead, he found his temper directed towards Malik, who had chosen to bluntly suggest they hurry up with his continued tactless lack of manners. With a gentle push of his knee, Menzai stood up, turning partially towards the tanned elf. “[color=ee82ed] Malik, I would advise you to learn some patience and manners the next time you speak. I will not tolerate such rudeness any further.[/color]” He snapped with an aimed soft scowl his way, then his features softened once more as he returned to the group, where he found Phia sweetly trying to comfort Tommy. Menzai let out a wistful sigh. “[color=ee82ed]Though I am averse to admitting his words hold truths. Still, it would do no good to rush too hastily as well lest we forget anything we may need. And, as for Sir Tommy..[/color]” Lowering his gaze to the small one, his nose wrinkling, a part of him had found it difficult to remain so close for the reason he preferred not to say. To protect Tommy’s dignity, the wolf walked up to the halfling, the effort bringing a sting to his eyes following the briefest whiff he could afford, and gingerly placed a clawed hand on his shoulder. “[color=ee82ed]Sir Tommy, it seems you had a rather difficult night, as we did. I intend to take a moment to bathe, as the chance has slipped me. I would ask you to join me, while the rest can handle the shopping.[/color]” He had spoken kindly, yet his tone and slight tightening of his claws on the shoulders hinted it as a request, one that was not up to debate. [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/qFsPF7Rm/bd7f78d4-5918-456c-8cf8-cac0440f4273.png[/img][/center] From behind the group, Corin had finally spoken up. From Malik’s assured rushing of the plan to the group's curiosity over this newfound companion of theirs. [color=#6C2DC7]”For someone who is trying to leave you sure have a lot to add to the conversation.”[/color] Turning back to address Malik. [color=#6C2DC7]“We all know you can’t go to the island alone. So you’re stuck with the rest of us. You can go sulk in some far off area until we’re done, but rest assured we’ll make it on time.”[/color] [color=#6C2DC7]“And you. Tommy. I like the innocent game you’re playing here. But I think it’s time we addressed the obvious. How does an orphaned child make it all the way out here without being killed about a dozen times over? Either you’re a real good sneak, or you are the luckiest son of a bitch I’ve ever seen.”[/color] It would seem the group would potentially be splitting into two groups, and to not hold them up any longer, he proposed a middle ground. [color=#6C2DC7]“We only have like, what, 3 hours? So let’s talk a little on the move. You can bathe with the wolf if you want, but I think it’s important we at least collect the…individual and move along since we are on a bit of a time crunch.”[/color] The group was ready to start moving again, but Tommy still had much to process. He had taken Phia's hand accepting her offer, despite having actually eaten he knew they still had not. Then there was Menzai who had placed his hand upon Tommy’s shoulder suggesting that a bath was in his near future. The prospect of meeting them and ending up in a revealing situation was a thought that took him off guard. Then, if that had not been enough, before Tommy could protest, the quiet knight spoke up from behind the others asking about the time left before the boat would be taking them to dangerous waters. Although Tommy could not help himself on the time remaining. [color=#50C878]“I thought it was two hours?”[/color] Tommy asked with his head cocked in confusion. He felt Menzai's gaze on him, his suggestion seeming more heavy handed than before. [color=#50C878]“Do… I have to? Can it wait?”[/color] Slowly, Bastion rose from his kneeled position, the motion careful so as to not crowd the boy who had backed into him. When he stood, he did not step away. Instead, he remained where he was, a quiet wall of metal and blue light at Tommy’s back. [color=30A4D9]“They will not force you, little friend. I will not let them.”[/color] The Warforged declared as he reached down to take Tommy in his hands and gently lifted him up, placing him atop his broad shoulders. [color=30A4D9]“Though I agree that a bath and a meal would be a good idea for a young organic like yourself, it shall be your decision and no one else’s. But one thing is for certain… We are running out of time. Like others have suggested, we need to keep moving.”[/color] Bastion gave Tommy’s leg a reassuring pat as he stepped forward. [color=30A4D9]“Hold on tight. I shall be your loyal steed for this journey.”[/color] [center][img]https://i.ibb.co/VpSK1CX1/6726991e-6af3-4b23-9bf4-a30fe9859fb1.png[/img][/center] He wondered if it was Menzai or Phias hand that would end up taking him for his fated cleansing. It was not the bath that bothered him, it was what they would see beneath his gear and clothes that gave him pause. Several questions were sure to be asked that he was not quite ready to answer. Before either could decide Bastion placed his hands under armpits lifting him before he would process the chunks of metal now gripping him from both sides. [color=#50C878]“EH!?... Whoa… Hey!”[/color] Tommy’s voice cracked as he squeaked out small protests as Bastion placed the small boy on his shoulders before beginning to move forward. Despite the smooth stride Tommy still gripped Bastion's armor like he was aboard a ship being tossed in a storm. [color=#50C878]“Fine… I’ll take the bath.”[/color] Tommy relented, figuring if they would be together for a while they would see eventually. The group split up to pursue their separate goals during the dwindling downtime. Completing the prince's task would guarantee safety of those still aboard the ship as well as the means for all of them to leave the principalities. With one more member wearing the fated gems they moved forward to prepare for their journey to the island even the pirates dared not approach. And still, the boy felt uneasy. As if something was missing. [/color]