Time: Afternoon Location: Outside Ironhold Interactions: Sivaros @GingerBoi123, Kaleb @FunnyGuy, and Amisra @Tae Equipment: Leather armor, and two backpacks.
Blanket 3 days of rations (roughly) First aid kit Change of clothes Waterskin Tinderbox 30 amas
Tanithil rubbed his fingers against his temple as the new information was presented. Of course it's the opposite direction I'd love to be going. Oh well. He exhaled slowly, shooting Amisra a slight look as if to tell her this was her fault for them being in such a weird situation, but he ultimately shrugged and began to think of an actual helpful solution to their predicament.
"Well, I am somewhat versed in stealth-applied magics. However applying it to all four of us would be...a challenge to say the least. And for as long as we'd need it I think I'd run out of energy well before we made it to our destination." He brought his hand to his chin in a moment of perplexed thought, trying to think of various means he knew of to perhaps make it to the island in the north. "All I can really think of that's a reliable means of transport is a boat...and for the love of god if we have to sneak onto one again I think I will actually go mad. I don't suppose either of you have some kind of connection that would get us on the quickest sea charter there?" He openly asked the group.
He himself had very little connections in the way of sea-farers as most were only stopping in Ironhold for a few days at most. Not much of a repertoire to build with folks who would drink themselves dizzy and be gone before the next fortnight. Still, he figured that between the human who was close to the Light Elf princess and the actual "Bladedancer" or whatever title that meant of the Light Elf forces that surely someone had to have some idea or way to make their way onto the island.
Location: Guest House Time: 11am Mentions: Layla @Potter
Sitting at the table with all this prepared food looking at his cousin, Farim could feel a rather distinct set of emotions and tones in the way that Layla spoke that seemed all too familiar with him. He could tell she was having a bit of a morning to say the least, and while he didn't blame her for the curt and tense replies, he could still feel the sting of her tone. In-between lines of questions he could almost feel as if Layla were shooting daggers into his very soul. He had been part of many unpleasant dinners before, and did not quite desire to continue a forced conversation if there was no enjoyment for both parties. It wasn't so much that he felt unwanted but he certainly did not feel desired either.
He stood up slowly and picked up a small bowl, leaving some chicken curry in it for Thara to feast on in a moment. He gave a warm smile to Layla and spoke to her in a calm and polite manner, as was his usual cadence. "I think it's about time I took my leave. I was planning on heading to the festival and the time has already gotten so far from me. I just wanted to make sure the family is going well and that nothing...bad or nefarious was happening. All I could hear were the sharp words of my father saying that we were all made fools and I wanted a more precise opinion." He paused, moving the bowls together that were done with into the appropriate boxes they came with. He lifted the bowl to Thara's beak and let her peck and nibble at the morsels of food as he continued speaking. "But it is rather uncouth of me to drill my cousin with questions so soon in the morning. So I will let you enjoy yourself. I'll send a servant soon enough to clean up here and I hope to see you at dinner, Layla." He ended his talk with a smile and began walking towards the door and with the hand that Thara was perched on, delicately moved the door handle as to not disturb his bird. The door swung open smoothly and he took a slight bow towards Layla before leaving. As the door shut behind him he looked around to make sure no one was present and rolled his eyes slightly. Must everyone be so stingy today?
He walked back to his room, on the way finding female maid making her rounds through the common room. Farim recognized the woman from back home as one of the many staff that would take care of the Shehazdi Palace, and was happy to see another familiar face. He raised an arm and spoke directly to her, keeping his voice from being startlingly loud. "Pardon me, Ayisha. Would you be so kind as to check on Layla here in the next half hour? She will likely have some dishes to be tended too and some other small favors I'm sure." He flashes another smile, his eyelids coming slightly closed as he displayed his friendly persona. The maid, as if by instinct, nodded and smiled back to him, giving him ample reason to believe she would see to it that Layla would be taken care of. He briskly walked to his chambers and in a similar fashion to before, opened the door and walked into his room.
Farim entered his room and placed both the bowl and Thara on a nearby table. The bird happily began to nibble and eat at the remains of the chicken curry, leaving Farim to wonder if this was some weird form of cannibalism. He shook his head slightly and thought to himself. To animals, meat is simply meat. I doubt it means much to her if she is eating another bird.
Then, as if in response to his thoughts, he heard a familiar voice that sent a chill down his spine. You always did have a weird way of perceiving things, friend. Farim would whip around and see a pale-blue apparition resembling that of his long-dead friend, Malik. He always felt shocked and cold when he would appear, but lately he had grown used to his appearances. He still clutched the necklace he always kept around his neck, the pale-blue crystal almost shining in response to Malik's presence.
Must you always surprise me like this? I don't see you for over 2 months and suddenly you choose NOW to show up? Why? He breathed slowly, still clutching his fingers around his amulet and standing slightly taller as if to fix his posture. The ghost flashed a smile before speaking, emanating a slight warmth to his presence.My friend, is there ever truly a bad time for me to come around? You and I used to be quite the pair. Until...well, you know. Malik cringed slightly as he mockingly gestured to himself, slumping his head over as if to pretend he died again. Farim sighed and finally let go of his necklace, speaking in a more casual cadence to his friend. You were the one who wanted to practice magic. There is a reason we were always warned, my friend. I am truly sorry for what happened. If I could, you know I would've swapped places with you.
Malik floated slowly towards the ground, his feet bending to meet with the wood as if to stand on solid ground. He shrugged and shook his head in response to Farim. Honestly, you did far more with my death than I could've done with yours. I never would have thought to use your soul the way you use mine. I mean, alchemy to turn benign minerals to jewels that you then sell to merchants for an astounding profit? Only Farim the Merchant Prince would come up with such an idea! Farim raised an eyebrow, finally breaking the slightly somber tone of his and chuckling with his friend. But Malik spoke up once more and it brought Farim's face back to a neutral expression. However I simply wanted to appear and remind you to be careful. The other night was unlike anything I had seen. For the first time in both of our lives I could not even see where you were. What you were doing. Normally I am with you in the very necklace you cling to so dearly. But last night I had no idea where either of us were. My soul stayed with the necklace, but there was something powerful blocking me from seeing out into the real world. Someone in Caessonia is up to something, and it may be a trivial prank on the nobles or something far more sinister. Watch yourself and watch your family, Farim. I do not get a good feeling from this.
Farim walked slowly to the translucent image of his friend. He could make out finer details on the mans face, seeing that his ghostly form seemed to age as he would have in life. He took note of the slightly greyed hairs and perhaps a few too many wrinkles, and chalked it down to some aesthetic choice of Malik's. However, Farim knew that his little magic formula would only work for so much longer before the energy of Malik's soul was spent. Every transmutation he performed, every time Malik manifested like he was now, every interaction with his dead friend only sought to shorten the time Farim had left to see him. Farim walked towards Malik and stretched his arms around his pale form, a slight moment of serious reflection overtaking him before he could respond. He felt a tear well in his eye as he thought of the inevitability of death. Even in this shoddy imitation of life, he found appreciation for seeing Malik a few more times, and making something out of his passing. Someone as kind-hearted as Malik didn't deserve to just go quietly in the night, and Farim would make every second of this gift he possessed count. I will fulfill that dream I always told you about. I will make a name for myself and carry on your memory. I will surpass my father and rise to take the Sultanate just like we always dreamed of. I will build the best Alidasht you and my family will have ever seen for generations. You won't be forgotten, my friend. As he went to squeeze the slowly fading body of his best friend, he felt his arms collapse back into him, and Farim looked around to the now empty room. Thara was still eating as if nothing had happened, a few pleased caws coming from her throat as she devoured the last of the chicken. Farim laughed and walked over to the bird, petting under her chin with one hand and brushing the top of her head with the other.
"Come then, Thara. It is time we head to the park. I hear there is a fun festival there!" He took the bird and began to quickly walk from his chambers and out the front door. He took the nearest carriage, his bird happily resting on his shoulder while they got into the back of his ride to the festival. He told the driver to take their time so he could enjoy the ride to the park. He rather enjoyed the new scenery of the capital. His homeland would always be beautiful to him, but a change of location never hurt anyone. Sorian had plenty of good features to it, even if the capital may contain some...less than ideal occupants. But such is the way of any city, really. Farim continued looking on and taking note of any passersby, and as the carriage came to a stop he couldn't help but notice the large volume of sounds and people gathering in the beautiful park. The several stalls of pleasant looking food and many games he could see from afar definitely peaked his interest. Even though he had just ate he could still feel his stomach making room for more of Sorian's yummy delicacies and treats. He took a few steps from the carriage, his bird happily spreading its wings and tilting its head at the several new sites before her.
Time: Afternoon Location: North Pass Wilderness Interactions: Annya @princess, Ismael @Th3King0fChaos, and Bron @GingerBoi123 Equipment: Leather armor over smallclothes, tooth necklace, warm boots, winter cloak, halberd, and
One bedroll a mess kit a tinderbox a waterskin 1960 amas
As Bardulf looked at the now slightly charred body of the animal that was teeming with life but moments earlier, he couldn't help but feel just a tinge of empathy for the creature. However, he knew it was the way of the wild...to hunt or be hunted. Annya's question grabbed his attention, prompting yet another moment of thought as he went over the options in his head.
"We are rather close. Maybe a quick jaunt back into town before we meet up with the others. They might think we're lost or something." He let out a single chuckle before leaning over and reaching a hand out. "Could I perhaps....borrow some rope?" He felt a tad embarrassed after seeming so prepared and not having something as trivial as rope with him. However, he knew Annya would have his back, and felt a sense of relief as she pulled the rope from her things and handed him a lengthy portion.
He moved fast, tying a harness of rope around the elk's torso. With a sudden "Hnnn!" from Bardulf, he began to drag the elk through the snow as he motioned the way they had just come. "Just make sure nothing is....watching us..." He said with a slightly ominous tone. Something was indeed there, just on the edge of his perception. It seemed to move with them so it clearly wanted to observe the pair. He kept himself alert and pulled the elk, finding it quite the hefty and obvious task as a trail of blood was left in the snow where the animal's wound was still emptying its bodily fluids.
After what felt like quite the walk, Bardulf and Annya made it into town, attracting the attention of several townsfolk. Some look at the sight of a dead animal carcass being dragged through town with disgust, others with admiration, and some with a look of hunger as they anticipated just what kind of a meal the meat could make. He took the game with Annya over to the hunting stall that was buying fresh kills and let the rope hit the ground. He let loose a strong pant as he looked up at her with a smile. "We did it! Our first actual hunt in such a long time. This is really...nostalgic."
Bardulf was cut off slightly as a man in a white robe rushed to the pair, a letter in hand. "Your Highness! A letter from the King! It is urgent!" A slightly surprised look came over Annya's face as she took the letter and hushed the courier. "Not so loud, would you! Now let's see what-" Annya's expressions continued to warp and change as her worst fears had been addressed to her. Everywhere war had broken out. Scouts reported Orc and Dark Elf collusion as well as several advancements on allied territories. Her presence was going to be needed in the days to come, so the King had sent for a royal escort to bring her back home post-haste, with or without her friends. Bardulf noticed the change in her looks, still trying his best to read just how serious this might be. She did not speak a word until she folded the paper back into its case. She smiled at Bardulf and spoke quickly yet directly.
"Bardulf...it saddens me to say this. But I am needed back home. I'm not going to lie. Things will be tough. The war is escalating and I don't want any of you in harms way yet. So I need you to tell the others to remain here. Continue your training. Follow every one of my rules...and don't even think of doing silly things like running about by yourself in the midst of night!" She paused to give Bardulf a serious glare, as if to scorn one of her children. But her tone returned to a more somber one as she continued. "I will send for someone to get you once I deem it safe, or you may inform me if you all leave the island. Just please...be safe and don't keep me in the dark if you all choose to leave. I know I can't force you to stay here forever but...I can't stand the thought of losing you all." Her eyes became slightly wet for a moment before she sniffed her tears back into her ducts. She breathed slowly, her chest filling with air before a slow and calming exhale washed over her. She reached her arms out and gave Bardulf a firm and unexpected hug, lasting several moments. His expression immediately changed as he seemed unsure just what to do or where to place his arms. An awkward attempt at returning the hug came from him, his arms slowly wrapping around her as if to join her in saying goodbye.
"I know what it's like to do what needs to be done. I pray you have the strength to see your people through this hard time. And know that we are all plenty capable. If we're going to get through this...it'll be because of you Annya." Bardulf smiled and released from the embrace, eyeing the courier who seemed to be feeling just as awkward for witnessing the heartfelt moment. Annya composed herself and immediately began commanding the elf to find her things and bring them to the nearest ship while she settles her affairs with the town leadership. Before he could say much more, she was heading off to do greater things. He couldn't help but feel sad to watch her go, but knew that it wasn't without purpose that she was leaving. She at least wouldn't be gone for good, like so many others that had left him in this shallow existence he called life.
He shook his head slightly and collected his pay from the gamesman for the elk, and began the trek back out to the meeting spot to share the news with Ismael and Bron about recent events. Even so, as he wandered further and further away from town, he couldn't help but feel that same feeling of being watched. Normally he wouldn't be so bold as to walk out into the woods alone with an obvious predator lurking about, but he knew his friends were still deep in the woods, and he couldn't just leave them. He pulled his hood over his head and began to shift through the trees as best he could, wanting to shake the tail of whatever or whoever felt the need to observe his every move.
Farim had been smelling the delightful scents that he only assume would be a fine culinary experience for the past thirty minutes. His stomach slightly grumbled at the anticipation as he picked up a beef kebab and slowly worked on the juicy and tender meat pierced with a wooden stick that was firm and unyielding against any pressure his hands may give. He took several bites along the first kebab and took in the tastes. While not overly impressed, he found the gesture that another nation would seek to re-create his homelands dishes rather humble and flattering. Admittedly, there were improvements to be made. He could almost taste how quickly the meat had been prepared in an effort to impress him and the other nobles he told the owner he would be bringing this food to.
It was then he heard his cousin speak to him, almost as if to hiss her words ever so slightly at him. He had a feeling the only thing stopping her from chewing him out and kicking him out the door was the fact he brought some remotely delicious food. He did not care however, as he had been used to this kind of air about the room for quite some time. In fact, he became quite adept at displaying the best of poker faces in times like these. He smiled and gave a slight shrug as he moved the bowl of curry closer to him.
"Well, you aren't inherently wrong, Layla. There are some areas for improvement but it's nice to see our country's influence spread across the borders. But it isn't quite like the way the staff would make it back home." He took a moment to take a spoonful of curry into his mouth and with a smile taste the delectable sauce that was drizzled over the surprisingly well-cooked chicken. He smiled and took in a few more generous spoonfuls into his eager gullet. He takes one more spoonful and brings it to the beak of his bird, Thara, and lets her peck slightly at the food until she's had her fill, wiping her beak of any remnants shortly after. "I was meaning to ask...How have things been around here since your arrival? I have heard some words and rumors but I would like to hear it from a more trustworthy source if possible?" He turned to her and slowly ate as he awaited a response.
Time: Afternoon Location: Outside Northpass Interactions: Annya @princess, Ismael @Th3King0fChaos, and Bron @GingerBoi123 Equipment: Leather armor over smallclothes, tooth necklace, warm boots, winter cloak, halberd, and
One bedroll a mess kit a tinderbox a waterskin 1960 amas
He made sure everyone made it to the starting point easily enough, and upon seeing the tell-tale sign of a red stained rope on wrapped around the trunk of a tree, Bardulf would nod and turn to the others. "Well we made it. I wish you both a happy hunt, and we'll see you at the other tree. Remember..." He points to the rope, which began to look mildly morbid in the more well-lit afternoon weather. "Look for the red rope. If we don't see each other by nightfall then just make it back to the village and we'll look for anyone missing. It shouldn't be that dangerous but, you never know." He topped the slightly ominous words of his with an awkward smile as he would turn and walk with Annya along the Eastern path.
The trees did somewhat remind him of home, and the weather would be akin to some of the more harsh winters he was used to seeing. He turned to Annya as she spoke.
"Bardulf, I'm really proud of you."
He would hide smirk crossing his lips as best he could. Amidst all the rough times he'd been having, some light-hearted adventures and kind words were certainly a pleasantry he would appreciate. "Thank you. I try. Frankly all that talking has already worn me out some but we still have quite the hunt ahead of us." He would pull his hood up further, hiding his long hair and his footsteps would grew light on the snow. Even with all his effort there was still the occasional crunch of freshly packed snow that sounded underfoot. He paused as Annya did, noticing the sudden rustling in the distance. He read her lips with a slight turn of his head, figuring that she was offering him the first shot. He slowly nodded and prepped some magic he had been meaning to practice more.
In his left hand, he pulled his fingers together, as if to make a gesture with his hands. A slight spark began to circulate around each fingertip as he slowly pulled them apart. A circular arc of lightning magic solidified between his fingers as he pulled them further and further apart. His right hand reached over, and as if drawing the string on a bow, pull the lightning back. His stance was firm and deliberate, as if to mimic that of someone using a longbow. However his hands felt not nearly enough tension as you normally would from a bowstring. He instead imagined and visualized the picture of an archer about to prime their killing shot. His left index finger pointed outward while his other fingers curled towards his palm. His right hand and hip rotated to position behind his right shoulder. A streak of lightning was formed and pulled from the pinching of his first two fingers from his right hand until it reached the pointed finger from his left hand. He smirked, seeing his imagination taking physical form as an arrowhead formed just in front of his left fingertip. He breathed slowly, and took aim for several seconds. The buzz of his magic hummed against the still air, but seemed to not quite hit his prey's eardrums yet. He used these precious seconds to line up his shot towards a rustling bush, and let his shot fly.
Location: Guest House Time: 1030am Mentions: Layla @Potter
In the brief moments before Layla spoke, Farim felt an all too familiar tinge of emotions almost seep from under the door. As if to warn him to "stay away", he could feel Layla's general discomfort at his arrival, but he paid it no mind. His family was...eccentric and sometimes outright cranky, but after a good meal even the fiercest of animals can enjoy a moment of peace......he hoped.
He took a brief moment to fetch Thara from his quarters, only a few steps down from the door he had been placed at, and gently propped the door open before leaning down to pick up the several wooden boxes that were packed with flavorful scents that would likely fill the room. He figured that a high-energy greeting would likely get him the meanest stink eye he'd seen, comparable to his father's, so he opted to speak in a mellow tone that was still filled with that selfsame jolly nature of his.
"Layla, my cousin. I hope you are doing well. I couldn't help but notice you were gone this morning and still hadn't left your room." He organized the food and gently shushed Thara as she began to make slight coo's and caw's at the delicious looking food that was surely for her. "Not that it's any of my business. It has been some time since I've talked with most of you, and I do miss you all. How have things been in the days coming here?" He slowly and gracefully unpacked the plates and cutlery that were provided in the boxes and laid the meal out before them.
For the appetizers, beef kebabs and a chickpea platter. The main course was split into two main dishes: Lamb chops for Layla and Chicken Curry for Farim. To round out the meal, Farim had gotten some Caramel Crisps he figured Layla would enjoy as well as some Coconut Bites for himself, although he had a feeling there would plenty of sharing going on. He did not mind it any, though.
"Well? What do you think? I've yet to try any of their food but the presentation is something else, at least."
Time: 2:20pm Location: Odds and Ends Interactions: Annya @princess, Ismael @Th3King0fChaos, and Bron @GingerBoi123 Equipment: Leather armor over smallclothes, tooth necklace, warm boots, winter cloak, halberd, and
One bedroll a mess kit a tinderbox a waterskin 1960 amas
Bardulf felt a slight tinge of pride and accomplishment seeing this little event of his come together. He would've been fine with any pairing honestly, but thinking on it Annya likely made the best call. Having a hunter with each group would prove to be effective, and Bron was clearly in his element here. As a huntsmen himself, however, he did have some experience with snowy winters and heavy forests. The German winters from his home were none the kind to him and his village. Even in snowfall he had to make the trip with his dad to hunt game and gather what could be found, for food was much more scarce in the winter time. This town seemed to have no such problem, however he still found it somewhat nostalgic if he would be able to bring back a big elk...maybe even some smaller game to give something back to this lovely neck of the woods.
Bardulf took a single coin from his pouch and flicked it into the air, letting it fall into his palm before turning it over on the back of his other hand, hiding the result. "Right...if it's heads, Annya and I get the East Path. Tails, we get North." Slowly, he lifted his hand and smile grew on his face as the symbol of the face of the king of the Light Elves minted onto the coin was what graced their eyes. He nods and puts the coin away, packing his other things in a swift motion and looking to the group. "Well then, let's head to the starting point together then!" He took a few broad steps towards the door, heading out in to the frigid winds that were complete opposite to the warmth of the shop. He made sure everyone was following before leading the group towards where he had marked earlier in the morning.
Tanithil Malaggar
Time: Afternoon Location: Outside Ironhold Interactions: Sivaros @GingerBoi123, Kaleb @FunnyGuy, and Amisra @Tae Equipment: Leather armor, and two backpacks.
Blanket 3 days of rations (roughly) First aid kit Change of clothes Waterskin Tinderbox 30 amas
Rolled up Tent 3 days of rations (roughly) Small dagger with purple hilt (gift she doesn’t know about) Waterskin Tinderbox 20 ft of rope
Tanithil spun around towards the Light Elf who had thrown around the term "we" so casually. "Hey woah woah woah there buck-o. 'We' did not forge any pact or agreement. All I said is that we plan to get the hell out of here." He pondered for a moment as he spoke. The addition of two more fighters, both of whom seem plenty capable to hold their own, would increase their chances if they got into an ambush. The human alone could probably punch well above his belt in terms of firepower. He let the shadows of his gauntlet recede onto his back, almost cloaking his clothes in a weird perception-defying magic that seemed to hide him from the back. He slung the pack of his front and thrusted it onto Amisra, making sure she held onto it before letting go.
"That being said. It would seem we all want to just simply leave the premises, and it makes perfect sense for us to travel together. Strength in numbers and all that. As for where the Princess is, I haven't the faintest clue. I hardly want to travel the land looking for her, so what I can promise is that we can maybe come along until it's best for the two of us to skedaddle." He looked at every one of them for a few moments before letting out a sigh, as if to signal he's finally relaxed some, despite the impending threat of being scorched standing about 15 feet to his right. His gaze fell onto Amisra, speaking in a much more calm and jovial demeanor.
"I mean...that's all assuming you're okay with that and don't want to go running off into the sunset to gods know where. Think you can quell the spirit of vengeance for sometime until we have an actual army to face off against the...actual army?"
Blanket 3 days of rations (roughly) First aid kit Change of clothes Waterskin Tinderbox 30 amas
Rolled up Tent 3 days of rations (roughly) Small dagger with purple hilt (gift she doesn’t know about) Waterskin Tinderbox 20 ft of rope
Tanithil felt a growing vein on the side of his brow. However, sensing the lest hostile energies between the two, he lowered his hand and straightened his posture. As he stood up he slung the bag draped over his front side towards Amisra. "You talk as if you can take on an entire army single-handed. You're good, sweetie but not that good. Now take your things so my back doesn't give out." He rolled his shoulder as the light elf spoke to them, almost confirming Tanithil's suspicions. He knew that woman fairly well despite his misgivings for her. She wouldn't be marching on something like Ironhold unless she had the means to rip it from the very mountain it rested in. He turned to Sivaros to address him, still wielding the darkness on his hand, yet not pointedly at him. "Don't look at me. My 'plan' is to get her and split like a log. I have no intentions of staying here with that crazy bitch running around wreaking havoc. Fuck the Dark Elf Army, fuck Zarra, and fuck this whole war to be honest."
He heard another voice trickle into his ear drums, along with a sudden rise in heat. He turned on his heel and saw what looked like a light elf, yet they wielded fire magic as a human would. Well fuck me. The summoning rumors are true and on top of that, one of the bastards is staring us right in the face. He stepped a few paces out from the other two to properly face the self-proclaimed human who was walking towards them. "Sorry to say you all have the wrong crowd. We aren't looking for any humans and we certainly aren't looking for any dark elf generals whom we wish to separate their heads from their bodies." He glares at Amisra before gesturing towards Kaleb with his shadow gauntlet. "Whatever business you have with them, count us out. They could all drop dead for all I care, save the few who have the sense to realize this war is stupid as hell. Now, can I help either of you with anything else or are we going to stand around flashing our bits and bobs until we're riddled with holes from dark magic and arrows?" He stood there, keeping a slight stance about him, but wanting to keep the two lesser-known men guessing what his next move could be. Truth be told, he hardly had an idea what his next move would be himself if things decided to flip upside down.
Location: Guest house/The Gossamer Time: Around 10am Mentions: Layla @Potter
Farim, having properly learned of Saiya's intentions and somewhat of her plans, decided to go on finally start to explore the capital of the Caesonian kingdom. He had read in the paper before leaving for the hall something about a place called 'The Gossamer'. Farim really enjoyed well made food, and he read they were holding a special event filled with the cuisine of his homeland. He felt it only necessary to see how others saw his nation's food, and how well they would emulate it. He made his way to a nearby stable-hand to have them ready a carriage to take him across the noble district. Luckily, the driver who had taken him into the city originally was also available for him today. He flashed a smile to the man and gave a slight bow in his direction before stepping into the small carriage.
It proved to be a smooth ride, and much less noisy considering it was just him riding. He took a moment to reflect on the previous night, and despite his best efforts, only saw fuzz and haze when he recalled anything beyond getting into the carriage with Saiya. He shook his head slightly, giving up the fruitless endeavor and turning his eyes to the sight of an elegant building he knew to be the very place he was looking for. The gold-lined architecture and marble pillars were all fine choices in his mind. His carriage came to a stop just before the front entrance, and Farim stepped out to take a look around. "Taslim, I'll be just a moment, no need to find a stable for her just yet." He turned and walked into the restaurant with a slow pace, taking those extra few moments to absorb and appreciate the atmosphere. It was hardly a few moments after walking in before he was addressed by a bubbly young woman.
"Why hello, sir! Welcome to the Gossamer, where every guest is treated like royalty~. Do you have a reservation with us today?" Her stance was proper, and her speech annunciated and polite. Her tone was pleasing to Farim's ears and he took a slight bow in her direction, as was his custom. "Why hello, miss. My name is Farim Hafiz, and I regrettably do not have a reservation with you all today. I had simply heard of your lovely 'Taste of Alidasht' special and wanted to see if I could bring some back with me to where I am staying while I visit."
The woman paused for a moment, a slight break in her positive character as she flipped through her book, as if to find the name 'Hafiz' by miracle. "Um, sir...I am very sorry but we don't usually do orders to be taken out. I....uhh.." She became slightly flustered, unable to think of a response in the moment before a slightly stern tone pierced the general hustle and bustle of the restaurant. "My my! If it isn't one of the lovely Shehzadi whose culture is the reason behind this whole event! I do say, it is an honor to even see you here interested in my chef's finest cuisines! Rachel! Do not worry about the logistics, let us take this fine man...you said your name was Farim?...Let us take Farim's order at once! I demand it for the best customer service I can provide!" The large man approached with a quick yet friendly demeanor and immediately stuck out his hand. Farim met his eagerness in kind with a firm handshake of his own as he locked eyes with the Caesonian man. "Simon's the name! I run things around this lovely establishment. Don't mind Rachel here. It's her first day and she is doing splendid! We normally don't do any kind of dining out however for someone of your nobility I can only do the best for you all today. Am I too assume you are bringing it back to another daughter of the Sultan? The Grand Vizier? Pardon my intrusiveness but I must make sure every customer is cared for with all of my power and precision!" Simon spoke loudly, yet kindly as he pulled a menu from nearby and handed it to Farim.
Farim was rather taken aback by the almost aggressive hospitality, and offered a gentle but quick nod to the man. "Please, you do me no disservice by offering me this kind gesture. I was not aware taking food out was not usually available, but I am humbled that you would allow me this kind favor. I shall pay a fine gratuity in kind for your generosity." He took a moment to look over the menu, reading quickly until he stumbled upon the 'Taste of Alidasht' section. He took a few moments to properly think and remember what exactly his cousin may like, and hoped that his memory would prove the best of him. "If I could....I would love to have some beef kebabs and the chickpea platter. I think Layla would appreciate those...and could I get...Chicken Curry and some Lamb Chops? Finally for desert....Some Caramel crisps and coconut bites...oh I love some coconut bites~." Farim spoke slow enough as he noticed his words being written down eagerly by Simon, wanting him to capture everything properly.
"Right away! My top chef's will have this ready in no time at all! As for the total..." Simon was quick to make sure payment was upfront, and Farim obliged. He paid double the price for the food, soliciting a wide-eyed reaction from Simon who dashed into the kitchen. "This order is NUMBER ONE PRIORITY!!" Farim's wait was not long, and after what felt like a dozen or so minutes Simon came rushing from behind the kitchen with small, yet sturdy wooden boxes, four total, brimming with smoke and wrapped in clothes to help hold the food and contain the heat within. Farim reached for the boxes but Simon insisted he carry them to his carriage. Farim reached behind his head with an almost embarrassed expression on his face as he scratched at his hair. "You are too kind, Simon. And you as well, Rachel. You make lovely conversation and will be an excellent host. I will be sure to recommend you all highly." Simon's eyes watered and it began to seem like the grown man could sob right then and there. As he packed the food into the carriage and bid farewell to the Alidasht noble he quickly turned and gave Rachel a rather enthusiastic hug. Many townsfolks could hear the words 'promotion' and 'head of house' being uttered over and over.
The carriage made another smooth ride back, the aroma from the food filled the cabin easily. Farim's stomach grumbled at the promise of warm and delicious appetizers and desserts to be had, yet he staved off the temptation to look at the food. He wanted to preserve it and let Layla have first choice after all. The driver came to a very smooth stop, as to not disturb the contents of the boxes, and jumped to the back to help Farim carry the boxes up to the guest house. "Thank you Taslim. You are a big help, as always." Taslim nodded in appreciation and the two men brought the boxes up to the door to Layla's room. Farim placed them down next to one another and reached into his pocket and grabbed a couple more gold coins. He placed them into Taslim's hand and smiled. "For the trouble." He chuckled softly at Taslim's enthusiastic nod and pep in his step as he made his way back outside for whomever would need his services next. Farim turned to the door and gave it three gentle knocks. "Layla, my cousin. I know you haven't left bed all day and I would like to bring you some food. May I come in?"
Time: Afternoon Location: Ironhold gates Interactions: Sivaros @GingerBoi123 and Amisra @Tae Equipment: Leather armor, and two backpacks.
Blanket 3 days of rations (roughly) First aid kit Change of clothes Waterskin Tinderbox
Rolled up Tent 3 days of rations (roughly) Small dagger with purple hilt (gift she doesn’t know about) Waterskin Tinderbox 20 ft of rope
Tanithil felt the cold wind rushing against his face as his wings continued to carry him over the city. Luckily with the cover of darkness, the natural sources of light from the city below barely illuminated him, if at all. A few scared children or sharp eyes is about all the attention he would garner. He scanned from above to see if he could possibly find Amisra, but with how high he was his vision proved to be insufficient. He only hoped he would make it to the gates before her. Calculations began wracking his mind as he thought about her travel time, how long she'd been running, if she'd take breaks, if he would be fortuitous enough to have someone stop her mid-sprint for a moment. Many factors to consider as he sped towards the gates. The light of day bled in through the hollowed-mountain face, and through its massive gates Tanithil could see the cloaked figure of Amisra running through the crowds, a dead sprint quickly becoming a more focused trot as she weaved around crowds of people making their way in and out of the city.
"At least she is trying to be discrete." He spoke softly against the whistling winds. He followed her as closely as he could without gaining attention, swooping below the top of the arch that was the main entrance. He waited until she made a break towards what he believed was the direction of the dark elf army. He gazed along the horizon and could not make out any obvious bodies at a glance, but still opted to begin his descent to stop her from going any closer. As he tucked his wings and let gravity and velocity control the major portions of his fall, he noticed another figure step deliberately in front of her. He groaned as he saw their attention was clearly on her, and she would likely cut him down where he stood if she felt it necessary. You better not... He thought to himself, as if to telepathically speak to her.
The distance between them closed rapidly, and he flipped his body so that his feet were facing the ground and his wings fanned out to slow his descent. He clapped his hands together and two dark-purple blobs of darkness formed around his legs and feet, bracing his lower body for the slight impact he would have upon reaching the ground. A hundred meters became 50, then 20, then 10, his feet hit the ground at an angle, sliding and kicking up a cloud of dust and dirt as he swung his body in between the two elves. One hand outstretched towards Amisra, the other forming a claw as his wings dissolved and crawled along his arm to form a shadowy gauntlet around his hand. His fingers became much more dangerous as the shadows crested to the tips of his digits and coming to a point, ready to strike at a moment's notice as Tanithil took notice of the situation. He would certainly look quite distinguished and likely threatening if not for the two large and bulky bags that were draped over his front and back.
"Nobody move or do anything crazy." His eyes stay locked onto the light elf, wanting to make sure he didn't make any suddenly hostile moves towards them. His mouth however, addressed his friend in a slightly aggravated tone. "Mind explaining to me what the hell you're on about? If you think you can do what I think you're trying to do, you're not only suicidal but you're nuts. Today is not the day to be the hero."
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