FunnyGuy

Avalia

Interaction: Myra @13org

---

Astra watched Myra look from slab to slab of the meat being cooked by the orcs. They all appeared happy to feast on and sell what they had roasted. Astra bet this was the safest place anyone could be in an orc settlement. Bellies and coin purses were full here. She trailed behind Myra, figuring she’d just buy something similar to the demoness or they’d just share. That bubble of thought was swiftly burst as Myra pointed at a large piece of meat. If Astra didn’t know any better she might have guessed Myra simply desired a few slices, but she had witnessed how much the girl ate at the Yenworth Tavern.

Two orcs worked the stall. One was bald, without facial hair and two deep scars on his face. One went diagonal across his forehead and the other went down the left side of his face. He appeared to be waiting on customers to buy while the other prepared the meat. The other orc had mess of black hair that made it down to about his chin with no visible scars.

The orc male running the stall looked upon Myra and Astra with a raised brow before he used his elbow to nudge the other.

“Hm?” The nudged orc turned his attention from the meat he was salting on the side to the two women approaching.

“Customers.” He almost chuckled, but instead wore a wide grin as he wondered what the small things were doing approaching he and his brother's meat stall.

“Hi there!” Astra put on her biggest friendliest smile. “We would like to buy that. Yeah that piece.” Astra pointed at the same piece of meat Myra desired.

“This? I'm not one to question a purchase, but you should know that we do not prepare the meat for traveling. That's something you have to do yourself.”

“Oh that's not a problem. We want it as is…. Oh and if you give us a discount, we'll make it worth your while.” Astra winked and smirked, making the orc raise a brow once more before letting loose a chuckle.

“You both might be way too tiny for my brother and I. We would break-”

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Stop! Just… I sincerely apologize that I made you think we were bargaining… that.” Astra noticed she was making a contemptuous face and sprung into damage control. “I mean, I've done some things with some orcs. Usually the runtish ones y'know. And they were good times for the most part I will admit, BUT what I'm bargaining for is free advertising.” The bald orc took a moment to think, his brother's attention was drawn.

“No. No deal. You want us to give you a discount and take your word that you will advertise our stall to others? And if it doesn't work, what do we even gain?” The other brother finally butt in, but his words didn't deter Astra.

“We'll just advertise right here then. You give up that piece of meat, we eat and advertise. And then we negotiate payment. We're much too tiny to run off with how large that piece is, so we have to eat it here. And if our advertising doesn't work, we'll pay the full price. If it does… we negotiate. Deal?”

“Hmmm.”
“Deal! There's no risk, brother and she might be able to convince some of her kind if she's good at this.” The mop-haired brother shrugged, which just meant he was okay with the deal too. Astra nodded her head smugly and finally looked at Myra while the requested piece of meat was grabbed to be served at the stall.

“Hey Myra, can I get just one bite? The first bite to be exact. You help me with this and I'll consider having you never wear clothes again.” Knowing what Myra loved and hated was all Astra needed to have things play her way.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Governor's Office, Avian City
Interactions: Governor Talasi Brightfeather
Mentions:

Equipment:

Cloth armor reinforced with mithral (armor in the picture)
Sin of the Father is a spear crafted from the wyvern’s tail that killed Augus’ father. The spear has a Return and Shift enchantment that allows it to become a sword
2000 amas

---

“Governor… they can't be so selfish. King and Queen Oceanheart declined just because the war has not reached their waters?!” Augus balled his hands into fists as he glared into the eyes of Governor Talasi Brightfeather. The two were standing in her office with the governor’s desk between them. The Governor kept a neutral expression as she had already let off her steam upon hearing the news come from the Aquarian Kingdom rulers’ lips. She half expected they’d choose to stay out of this war due to past instances.

“When they required assistance, there were few that bat an eye.”

“You mean when their entire kingdom was taken hostage by a group of slavers? They should be blaming themselves for being so weak and unable to control their heiress’ foolish ventures. Are we the only of our kind that has a lick of pride?” Augus was not holding anything back as usual.

“Augus, please. They are willing to continue trade and Myriamor is willing to establish new trade agreements with us. As for the other kingdoms, only the Sun Elf Kingdom has solidified its position in the war. The others are still coming to a decision.”

“Let’s hope they choose wisely. Ironhold and River Kingdom would be powerful allies. It would make up for yesterday’s attack on the Sun Elf Kingdom military’s supplies.”

“Indeed. How is the refugee operation holding up?”

“It’s been adequate. The amoras are getting to those fleeing Roshmi without issue, it is just corralling so many people into the quarters we built here. There are more refugees than we have accounted for, but this is not the permanent solution either. The Skyguard bird scouts are helping us map out the best route to Roshmi’s throne room while also dropping leaflets to motivate those remaining in Roshmi to take up arms. Once set, we’ll take the throne room and have Kasai usurped. Maybe push for some form of republic instead of an archaic monarchy.”

“You’ve been working hard as usual I see.”

“With assistance from the other masters of course.”

“Tell me. Are the rumors about demons true?”

“They are not rumors. Those monsters are fighting on the side of Malthemoor and the Aldrakh Tribe. There have been reports of patches of Uninhabitable Zones appearing across Avalia. We believe these areas may be where these demons are bedding down. Without further intelligence, I refuse to waste any lives to investigate further. For now, we’ll focus on the immediate. Roshmi.”

Young Justice

Location: Submarine
Interactions: Alisa @canaryrose, Kass @Mistress Dizzy, Talon

---

There was a long silence between Rain and Talon which as odd as it seemed, was a good thing. The tension between them almost seemed absolute, so as long as they were quiet and not at each other's throats, life was pleasant for the most part.

Despite his back and forth with Viktor, Talon continued to adjust the ship so that he continued to flank it and leave the rest of the team out of the submarine's line of fire. Even though Viktor was just standing there not saying a thing, he hated that some of what he was saying was right. He HAD to take the position Viktor told him to and that ate him up some.

Meanwhile, Viktor continued to watch and listen. But a sudden ping requested him on a private channel. With a click of the earpiece, he switched over. Alisa. She came in clear, but he could tell by her tone she was not entirely comfortable with calling him out. He looked down at Talon who had one hand balled in a fist. Viktor was going to say something but simply walked away without a word so he could reply to Alisa privately and not escalate matters with Talon.

“Cybergirl. I'm not surprised I somewhat agree with your thinking, but you fail to consider our mission's main objective. Sure, keeping a low profile is of the utmost importance. And we should do everything we can to maintain that, but should we use up our lives and resources in an encounter with this creature to remain covert?” Viktor's tone was starting to come across as a bit colder than usual. His eyes were peering through another window as he continued. “The answer is no, Cybergirl. Do you even see what's happening? Brightheart has already used some of her supply of UV. She will be less effective if we run into trouble with another threat or this squid we want to keep alive in the future. Nymph is without a suit for the time being. Who knows how her body will react to the saltwater if she's out there like that for too long. Metamorph's connection to fauna is seemingly absent when he's stern, as he is righ-”

Viktor stopped and his eyes widened as he watched Kila begin to struggle in the water. Without another word, he switched back over to the main channel to listen to what was going on while heading back to Talon.

“Ready the laser cannon and aim at the far end of that thing's head!” Viktor demanded, yet Talon didn't budge.

“No order was given. Get it through your thick head that you're not the leader of this team… and you never have been.” Talon said the last words with venom. The slight wince of Viktor's eyes meant the blow hit quite deep.

“Prepare for it then. At least aim at it. We need all our options ready.”

“Fine, but you are not making the call."

“I won't have to.” Viktor then addressed the others on comms. “Team. Someone get Metamorph to the submarine! We're out of the way of the… squid.” Viktor watched as the squid took a hold of Kila.

Dr. Bingley was maintaining his composure, keeping Alisa's words of confidence in mind, but his breathing had gotten a bit heavier as the situation began to escalate. Sure he expected a bit of danger, but nothing like this.

A panel at the bottom of the submarine opened up and ejected what appeared to be a cannon that adjusted to aim at the squid. On the weapon system control panel in front of Talon, the weapon appeared to be calibrating as it tried to obtain a fixed line of fire. Both Talon and Viktor stared intensely at the control panel.

“I'm not going to order you to shoot it, but how do you think this plays out if you don't?”

Talon kept to his disposition and did not fire the weapon, awaiting Kass' next course of action. He would just try to ignore Viktor, but it was getting difficult to watch how events were unfolding. He felt a bit sick, as there was a part of him that wanted to pull the trigger on the squid or as Viktor called it, the target.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Aldrakh
Interactions: Myra @13org
Mentions:

Equipment:

Outfit (left)

---

Standing in the woods decorated in blood and body parts that had exceeded the appetite of all but gluttony, was Vrexen. His form was still towering, yet he was as still as the trees around him. Dark red stained his exposed fangs while blood dripped from his claws. All was silent until through his teeth he spoke

“This world I will.... Their flesh and armor.... The weak…. My strength…. I…. Everyone…. We…. They…. This world I will change. Their flesh and armor twisting. The weak vanish. My strength grows[. I eat. Everyone bleeds. We thrive. They die. This world I will change. Their flesh and armor twisting. The weak vanish. My strength grows. I eat. Everyone bleeds. We thrive. They die. This world I will change. Their flesh and armor twisting. The weak vanish. My strength grows. I eat. Everyone bleeds. We thrive. They die. This world I will CHANGE. Their flesh and armor TWISTING. The weak VANISH. I GROW. I EAT. Everyone BLEEDS. We THRIVE. They DIE. This world I will CHANGE! Their flesh and armor TWISTING! The weak VANISH! My strength GROWS! I EAT! Everyone BLEEDS! We THRIVE! They DIE!”

Though he was shouting again, it was not as loud as his roars from moments before. Though all around and within him were dead, Vrexen was still fighting. Fighting his transition back into sanity. This is the form he claimed. Not of the body, but of the mind. The mind that thirsted for violence so much he cannot contain it. The incident at the Malthemoor docks was nothing. Traven was nothing. He thought of chasing the Dwarves that escaped, but it was much too late. Perhaps the Orcs and Dark Elves nearby? There were so many down there, but they were too useful. Lilith needed them. She needed this war and allying with the Dark Elves was the path since so few of her children were in Avalia. Only amounting to several dozen. It was no wonder that order ruled this realm.

Vrexen’s body trembled as he stopped his fighting, and allowed his lesser nature to rule him. His body slowly shrunk back down to normal size. He lowered down so he was on all fours and with a low discontent growl, he ran forward. He had reveled in violence, yet he remained unsatisfied.

---

“You two are gonna get fuckin’ fat, y’know that? All you demons ever do is eat and according to Vrexen, there’s one that represents gluttony of all things. Like why?” Astra rolled her eyes but all the while she was chuckling. She wasn’t all that surprised that Myra would pay more attention to snacks than the rest of the things she named. “Come on, I think they roast tons of meat over this HUGE ass fire!” Astra figured if Myra wasn’t worried about whether or not Vrexen returned, she wouldn’t bat an eye either. But if Vrexen was gone, then that meant traveling to River Port was the best option from Aldrakh. In Astra’s opinion, it was the best settlement in the River Kingdom. Aldrakh wasn’t bad, but it was only a matter of time until Astra got an ax plunged into her face for having a smart mouth. “If we ever part ways, I recommend this place. They might try to buy you, but remember, you know your worth. They hunt, they mostly eat and serve meat. And they’re pretty simple. In a good way of course.” Astra looked around to make sure her words were safe.

As they continued through the market, the smell of roasted meat filled the air, causing Astra to grin. As they moved past stalls they had no interest in, the two would find Dark Elve soldiers and Orcs crowded around a large fire pit with various shapes and sizes of different meat from the surrounding fauna.

“And they eat everything. Everything they can hunt and all the parts too.” Astra was glad she and Myra were lithe enough to squeeze between the bodies of the crowd. “You pick, I buy.” Astra raised her pouch of amas and jiggled it.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: River Port
Interactions: Eris, “Valerie” @Tae, Kharne @Kazemitsu
Mentions:

Equipment:

Male Outfit
Backpack (top right)
Bow and quiver of arrows

---

Kaleb laughed along with Raven after she performed her Harley Quinn impression once more. The act had actually brought a genuine smile on his face as he found Raven to be quite entertaining. It was not common for someone else to perform just for him and actually be good. However, his smile soon faded as Raven spoke of her late father and how he had been the only person that supported her career. He couldn’t help but think of his mother who had passed recently as well. A sigh escaped him but it was audibly masked by the deep breath Raven took coincidentally at the same time. Trying to hide his somber expression, Kaleb pretended to look off at something and briefly shut his eyes. Like putting on a mask, he turned back to Raven with a look of interest as she spoke of her father being a fan of his.

“Well, thank you for the compliment.” He chuckled a little, but the smile didn’t stick. Kaleb couldn’t keep his act up. Not because he was emotionally unable to, but because he could relate so much to Raven. She did not need an act, but instead someone to just talk to. “My condolences by the way. It’s not easy to talk about. Trust me, I know, so if you ever uh… If you ever just want to talk… about anything. I think you’re cool enough to listen to.” He smiled as he said the last bit in order to bring the mood up.

It wasn’t much longer when Eris addressed the two humans about a dragonborn searching for her. He remembered her mentioning the guy and yes he was aware this man was large, but…

Jesus christ… Kaleb looked towards the hulking dragon man Eris drew their attention to with wide eyes. He glanced at Raven who appeared to be a little uncomfortable seeing one of her companions. Kaleb hadn’t remembered Raven saying anything negative about the guy, and it appeared he was the only one that actually came out to find her as the dragonborn appeared to be searching by himself. Poise, poise, poise! Aaaaand… Kaleb awed expression quickly morphed into one of confidence as Kharne was called over by Raven. Got it!. Kaleb raised an open hand momentarily before dropping it as his wave to express friendliness at a distance. The last thing he wanted was for Kharne to go all Liam Neeson on them.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Myriamor
Interactions: Leaf @Helo
Mentions: Rosaria @potter

Equipment:

Pocket watch
Black stetson
Hat and Cowl
Black Duster Outfit
Repeating Crossbow
12 Iron Bolts
Champ (Oak Horse)
One-horse open sleigh
Hunting knife
Rope
Saddlebag
Black neckerchief
Tinder box
Canteen
Matches
Two Gold nuggets
$40

---

Slick couldn’t help but smile at Leaf’s expressed excitement. Not only would he have some good company, but he’d also have himself a little helper. If Slick had known what the big plan was he might have been tempted to get it done with the bit of resources he gathered so far. Sure, he was supposed to use his magic to make things right in this world, but there was no way to practice them now that there was a bounty on every human head. He also had his crossbow. Only several shots for it, but he’d earn some more amas to purchase more. It was just how he had earned his dollar. With work! Good, bad, and sometimes even ugly, but currency would keep his belly and ammo pouches full.

“One sniff of her scent, huh?” Slick took a brief pause from scanning the nearby shops and stalls to eye Leaf. The ability to track was something he’d keep a mental note of. It wasn’t a common skill and many people varied in how skillful they actually were, especially when faced with clever evaders. “As much as I’d love to see you sniff a piece of the lady’s undergarments and go sniffin’ around town with your nose up for her… I’ve never met the lady, so I got nothin’.” Slick shrugged with a brief sullen expression. “I’ll just need your eyes for this favor, but we can definitely go fishin’ for ladies with that nose of yours another time.” Slick gave a nod and a wink before looking through the window of an eatery, spotting a flash of green.

Upon further inspection it was a woman wearing green garments. He didn’t immediately say anything, not wanting to raise the expectations of the pair. The woman was seated with a group and breakfast would be the first thing to do upon strolling into town after a long carriage ride. Even if he was wrong about this woman being Rosaria, getting something to eat seemed like a good idea.

“I think that might be her.” Tilted his head up in the direction of the restaurant. “We gotta be careful though so we’ll sit close, watch, and just listen. It’d be awfully rude if we disturbed that group’s breakfast anyhow..” Slick didn’t care all that much. In truth, he just didn’t want to cause a disturbance that would put too much attention on him. Before the two could reach the entrance to the Myriamor Bed and Breakfast, Slick suddenly chuckled. “I mentioned usin’ our eyes and ears but you can use that nose of yours too if you like.” He chuckled some more as he stopped and looked up at Champ. “Pick a table for us while I get Champ situated out here.”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Myriamor
Interactions: Leaf @Helo
Mentions: Rosaria @potter, Mika @Tae, Kuroi @hide on mana

Equipment:

Pocket watch
Black stetson
Hat and Cowl
Black Duster Outfit
Repeating Crossbow
12 Iron Bolts
Champ (Oak Horse)
Boxing gloves
Hunting knife
Rope
Saddlebag
Black neckerchief
Tinder box
Canteen
Matches
Two Gold nuggets
$40

---

So it is a score… Well, sorta. Slick could feel a growing heat behind his ears that was definitely not caused by the rays of the harsh sun. Besides, he and Leaf remained in the shade, which was far more pleasant in the dry heat climate that engulfed Myriamor. Sure, Slick didn’t know the guy anymore than the duster on his back, but he liked the kid and he could sympathize with him too. Leaf had presented reasons for not committing hor- cat theft, but Slick found more reasons to do it anyway. To Slick, a man who lost a hand because of thieving just had a physical reminder of why thieving was and will never be suitable for ‘em.

This was Slick’s chance to test out his skills on a brand new pasture, and if things were as similar as they were where he came from, he thought he and Leaf would find themselves successful. Add to the fact that he was a nobody here in these parts, made Slick even more assured he wouldn’t get caught.

“Clever on you, Leaf. We can definitely discuss that matter at a later time. I’m itchin’ for a little excitement. Been sittin’ around too long and a great adventure…” Slick paused as he looked Leaf in the eyes trying to discern what he would say. He didn’t feel threatened by Leaf, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t bring trouble if the truth was let out. Slick wasn’t from this world, so he would tell a half truth to keep his story sensible. “It’s somethin’ I’m hopin’ for.” Slick nodded his head so the two could walk through the market area, with Slick leading Champ by the reins. He didn’t want an eavesdropper to conveniently hear everything he had to say from a stationary location.

“It’s not really up to me though. I’m bodyguardin’ a beautiful young lady who’s lookin’ to tour this desert town and meet up with some of her old friends. In these tryin’ times, a young lady like her can’t travel through these parts alone and a skilled stud like myself can’t just turn down amas, a gorgeous damsel, and a chance at some excitement.” Slick had a playful smirk on his face so Leaf could only speculate what sort of excitement the man spoke of. “And I ain’t her only bodyguard if you’re thinkin’ about why I ain’t right beside her. I’m takin’ a little break. The other guy is one helluva killer though. I saw the man just walk up on a fella and snap his neck. POP! Just like that! He’s one of them silent but deadly types I tell you.” Slick was exaggerating, but he wasn’t outright lying. Slick was sure Kuroi could do it. A guy like that wouldn’t just lie to him while petting a fox pup and sipping water in a damned bar of all places.

While the two walked, Slick was looking through the open windows of the shops he and Leaf passed by, trying to find Rosaria again. He could have gone to go find Mika and let her know her friend was in town, but that would simply be a waste of time. “You know I think I can get you in on this job if you can help me out. I’m lookin’ for a pretty black-haired elf in a green ‘n’ brown get-up that ain’t so pretty. I think she had a bow and was with some others when I last spotted her, but I’m sure she’s in this market.”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Aldrakh
Interactions: Myra @13org
Mentions:

Equipment:

Outfit (left)

---

“You heard it too?” Astra looked towards the west along with many others. The sound wasn’t followed up with anything more so it was easy for most people in the market area to return to business as usual. However, Astra’s gaze lingered for a moment longer. Was that him? I fuckin’ hope not. She thought before continuing her dealing with the stall vendor. Astra’s brows were furrowed now. She was not very fond of Vrexen, but she found him useful in some aspects. He was a Demon after all, and Malthemoor would not summon such alien creatures to this world if not for their usefulness.

Once the price of the painting was settled, Astra took a step back from the counter with a hefty amount of amas tucked in a pouch. She jingled the bag and forced a smile at Myra. You’re a whole lot better than he is, but I need to mold you some more. Astra let her eyes scan the rest of the wares before speaking to Myra.

“Do you know if that roar was Vrexen’s? I feel like you’d know better than anyone… But you also don’t speak. Fuck.” Astra sighed before shrugging. “Whatever, he asked for violence, and I’m sure he got some. Anyway, do you see anything you like here? Clothes, hygiene products, toys… a snack maybe?”.

Young Justice

Location: Submarine
Interactions: Kila @DClassified, Talon

---

“Once we’re all outside, it would likely be best to maneuver out of the ink cloud, less damage to the vehicle…and only prepare to use lethal force if Mirage deems necessary.”

Viktor looked down at Kila’s two fingers pressed against his chest. The action left zero doubt in anyone's mind who Kila was addressing when it came to following Kass’ orders.

“Sure.” Viktor replied, watching the back of his teammate as he walked away. As commendable as Kila’s loyal support to his leaders was, Viktor found it to be a bit too much. Like over-seasoned meat or a glass filled up to the brim. He was briefly reminded of the events that occurred in Las Vegas. I shouldn’t be surprised that you would stick to the path presented to you by a superior. Viktor turned back towards Talon as the team began to exit the submarine.

“Talon, you should keep at the flank of the target. In case lethal force is deemed necessary.” Viktor said with a small twist in wording. I am not so conventional.

A low sigh escaped Talon as he felt he might have done that without Viktor’s unneeded suggestion. He felt like he would find himself arguing with the control freak soon enough about whether or not they should preemptively use the weapon systems. Kila’s verbal support of Kass gave Talon confidence in her plan and the feeling he’d be doing right by standing up to Viktor if it came to that. Once the valve on the outside was shut, the submarine arced around the giant squid so it could be clear of the ink and maintain a good firing position.

“Do you have to hover over me?” Talon was already not fond of Viktor, but now the guy had become his Coal of all things. He was sure Viktor would perch on his shoulder if he could.

“No. It’s not required.” Viktor answered quickly as he watched things unfold through the nearest window. Talon turned his head slightly so he could shoot a glare at the cross-armed brooder standing over his shoulder.

“Then can you… go somewhere? I don’t think you can protect Dr. Bingley from here.” Talon turned back to the dashboard, enjoying the silence from Viktor’s lack of words. However, there were no footsteps to accompany the lack of words, which only meant he wasn't planning on leaving after all.

“Interesting… You actually bring up a fair point. I can ensure Dr. Bingley’s safety from this location if I take into account your poor situational awareness in navigating this vessel thus far. Besides that and the fact that we do not enjoy each other's company, I believe we work well together. Me being here. In this spot. Ensures our team’s success.”

Talon sighed again.

“I’m fine! You can’t tell me anything I don’t already know about the situation! And I’m not going to do anything that goes against what Kass ordered us to do!” Talon snapped, which didn’t seem to make Viktor react in the slightest. He just continued to observe his team out in the water while also listening in on comms.

“False… I’m sure you just listened to Kass’ plan in repelling the creature. Do you know that it won’t work? And when it doesn’t, there is a high possibility you will be made to use lethal force… But let’s follow Kass’ instructions to the letter. Her confidence is there, but does she know her team as well as she believes she does?”

“You done?”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Myriamor
Interactions: Leaf @Helo
Mentions:

Equipment:

Pocket watch
Black stetson
Hat and Cowl
Black Duster Outfit
Repeating Crossbow
12 Iron Bolts
One-horse open sleigh
Hunting knife
Rope
Saddlebag
Black neckerchief
Tinder box
Canteen
Matches
Two Gold nuggets
$40

---

“Well I guess a deal’s a deal then.” The fairy admitted as he counted up Slick’s amas. Slick sneered as the Fairy was looking down to gather the coins up.

“We didn’t ever make a deal, remember? Somethin’ about first come, first served.” Slick shrugged as it hadn’t become too much of a problem for him. He just didn’t like how quickly the Fairy changed his tune all of a sudden. He’d dealt with these types before. The type of man that turned sweet as honey once you greased his hands with cash or gold. Slick took a glance at Leaf who was touring the stables on his own and wondered if the cat-man was attempting to try his luck with becoming friendly with horses again.

“Oh yes, you’re ri-” The fairy was suddenly interrupted by shouting from Leaf. The Fairy scowled at Leaf while Slick was a bit surprised to see Leaf show a fiercer side to him. Looks like the cat has a bite. With Leaf’s departure, the Fairy muttered something under his breath before leading Slick to the stable where his purchase was being kept. Despite being excited about getting his trusty steed, Slick couldn’t help but look toward the lioness Leaf was so burnt up about. He could understand why the cat-man would be upset with having a fellow cat confined the way it was. Though he had not experienced the horror that was slavery, Slick heard plenty, and it wouldn’t be so far of a reach to think he wouldn’t feel the same as Leaf if he saw one of his own in such a condition. Staring at the horse a while, he wondered if its situation was the same. There had to be horse-men in this world, too. And I thought this place was complicated before… Now it makes sense why Kuroi bought that little critter and got him out of a cage.

“The saddle, horseshoes, and reins come with the purchase. Any other accessories like saddlebags, blinders, and armor will have to be purchased elsewhere.”

“Seems fair to me. I already got myself a saddlebag I’ve been usin' on my person.” Slick motioned toward the saddlebag he had slung over his chest. He started removing his slung crossbow first and set it down on the dirt ground before standing back up to remove the saddlebag in the same fashion. In the meantime, the Fairy opened up the stable to lead the horse out.

Once situated, Slick finally looked up at his new companion. Champ was a beauty and not something Slick thought he could afford back on Earth.

“Nice to meet ya, Champ. Slick’s gon’ take good care of ya.” He grazed the back of his palm against the horse’s neck before attaching the saddlebag and finally mounting the majestic creature. Slick felt like he could jump out of his boots over this moment. He’d ridden too many times to count. It was like walking for him, but having this familiarity in a place so far and so different from where he was from was just incredible. For a moment he didn’t even move and just sat upon the horse, taking it all in. “Well… It was a pleasure doing business with you fella.” Slick had Champ trot out of Sturdy Stables and walk in a figure-eight pattern a few times in front of Leaf while making sure not to knock any roaming townsfolk over. He eyed Leaf some before noticing a peculiar look in his eyes.

“Sincere apologies about you seeing what you saw in there.” Slick said as soon as he could before stopping beside Leaf and dismounting. “Hey, I know that look. What you cookin’ up in that brain of yours?” Slick raised a brow at Leaf who looked like some of the other outlaws he rode with. It was the look they got when they had hatched up some genius scheme to land a huge score.