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[Redcoat]

Anikus looked out over the bow of the Arrow with a spyglass he'd picked up in Tyrael. They'd been at sea for the better part of a month, on course the whole way. And the whole experience had been profoundly unsettling.

Everything had gone according to plan.

They'd entered Tyrael and had a fine stay at a local inn. Nobody had tried to poison them, the innkeeper was remarkably polite and made good conversation, the townsfolk were accepting, his spyglass had been reasonably priced, and they had left port without so much as running around on even a single reef. Then, at sea, they'd avoided a storm by a wide margin, encountered no sea creatures larger than a perfectly normal, edible fish--of which they had encountered and captured many--and had winds favourable to them the entire duration of the journey. It was as if Fate was watching over them.

Anikus shuddered. That was not good news.

"Land ho!" he called, putting his fear--and probable shellshock, at this stage--into the back of his mind. "Clan lands, sighted off the port bow!"

He returned to his spyglass and examined the Clan lands more closely. It was hard to ignore the place's beauty. The beauty of this place swept over him--the ocean, churning yet serene, contrasting with beautiful green fields and rolling hills, dotted artistically with dark green trees swaying in the ocean breeze against the painted backdrop of the sky, watercolour clouds mulling around thoughtfully in the background. He was reminded of his native Arkova. In between the natural serenity of the entire setting, there was the port city--the name of which the scholar knew not--they were to approach.

It looked remarkably inviting. It was walled, as most cities were; but even this martial necessity took on an air of nobility and artistry. The white stone walls, topped with red battlements and turrets, seemed to cradle the city. The industrial, utilitarian port structures were overseen by beautiful, welcoming multi-tiered towers. Buildings, inside, were placed in contrasting and amalgamous ways; and yet unlike Stormguard, it took on an order of natural tumbling and variety, rather than the architectural chaos of that Gaardish hellhole. Narrow streets and ornate structures spoke to the ancient culture of this noble realm.

A market welcomed them into the square. Despite the fact that all he could think about were ambush positions, it looked genuinely peaceful. It was there they would pull into next.

Anikus gulped.

[illuminaughti]

In Tyrael, Dionys eagerly spent her dead master's coins. She had returned grinning widely to the inn that night with her arms full of neatly wrapped bundles. Those things now spread before her in the cabin on the Aniku's Arrow. The documents all scribed in her own hand were a desperate debriefing of all she could remember from her study in the field of the Mo’phai tablets and the long dead Maukai who once called the jungle their home. She also filled the pages with all the terrors that she had encountered since her escape and of the power that blossomed within her.

“Land Ho!” Her captain cried and she dropped her stylus and bolted for the deck. The brilliant sunlight caused her to squint as she emerged from the candlelit belly.

She took her place beside the mage and watched the landmass approach.

[Lyon]

Kaethe looked over the approaching city with no small amount of relief. Finally. No more crazy islands, no more demonic temples or underground jungles... just a nice, ordinary city. She sighed. Of course, this means that SOMETHING is bound to happen... She leaned against the railing of the ship, looking pensively towards Marketta, who was standing nearer to Anikus. She was still curious of why they had shared the experience in the Entity... from what she had gathered, it was unusual that they had ended up together. I don't even like her... although, it will be amusing to see what kind of pranks I can pull on her now that we're back in civilization...

Telchi sighed as he looked over the Clan town. I wish that we could have returned to the Icesheets, but I suppose that definite accounts of a Shard in the area take more priority than my people's vague legends. He shook his head. Still, that... nightmare made me wish that I could return. If any of the Telchi remain, I betray them by my absence... and if they are all dead, I betray their memory. He closed his eyes tightly.

From her position perched on his wrist, Hawk gave him a disapproving glare. Telchi winced slightly as her claws dug into his arm slightly. Stop being so self-pitying? Is that what you're trying to say? He tried his best not to let his irritation show. Don't want her to think I'm being insubordinate...

"So, Anikus, what's our plan?" he asked, wishing that Hawk would let up the pressure on his arm. If she wasn't careful, he was going to start bleeding.

[Vithar Megilaglar]

Takeshi looked over the port city, Bokkateki. As usual, it was peaceful, even idyllic. A place one could come and rest on their laurels, forgetting about the world at large.

A good place to retire. Or hide out.

:Both reasons why my father chose it as a home.:

Takeshi studied the city more. He'd only spent about five years here before he married Sakura, then they spent only two more in the city before heading off. However, it still felt like home.

"It's good to be back. Even if only for a while."

"Indeed, Takeshi. It's strangely peaceful though. Almost makes me nervous."

"Ha. I've...accepted that any peace we get on this journey will shatter in the most explosive way possible. So I end up enjoying the peace more."

"And fighting harder to get back to peace?"

"Indeed, Sakura."

Sakura studied the water, mulling over Takeshi's statement.

Takeshi looked over Bokkateki again. On top of several of the towers of the main city, bright mage lights hung, suspended on kite strings. They glowed a deep, emerald green now. Every city in the Kyokujitsu had a set of these mage lights, used almost exclusively as signals. Most people not of the Clans would see them as pretty lights.

Takeshi pointed his chin at the lights. "Fair weather and no threats. I wonder how long that will last."

"With our presense? Not long."

Takeshi and Sakura laughed. The city drew nearer, and now even the utilitarian port buildings looked like they were built by artists not architects. The port invited the Arrow, several deckhands already heading towards the docks.

Takeshi looked around. "Sakura, you know that old tale that people wove about Bokkateki hugging you as you entered port?"

"More true than it should be, eh?"

"Indeed."

The curve of the shore forced the original builders of Bokkateki to build it with on a curve. Thus, viewed from inside the port, it looked almost as if the port city was hugging you.

Takeshi turned towards Anikus. "Welcome, Scholar, to the Port City Bokkateki. I'm sure you'll find it pleasant." The capitalization was evident, as if port city was part of the city's name.

[Durandal]

Marketta had taken a good half of their journey simmering silently over the current burden that she was surprised survived past their escapades through the underground realm. Hawk was as annoying and demanding as she had been the first day they met her - the only thing that she seemed to let up was her demands towards the group - now that they were beyond her realm, Takeshi and Sakura were 'in charge', allowing the group some peace. Marketta had even become remarkable patient towards, if not immune to, Hawk's antics; unfortunately, though, there were points where even the most reasonable broke.

Other than the misfortune of allowing Hawk to accompany them, the trip to the Clan city was disturbingly calm and peaceful. Although in general circumstances she'd be berating herself for once again fearing this calm, the group's track record did not help. However, the topic did bring unwelcome thoughts; how far would she be willing to go for this crew?

Leaning on the railing of the ship, Marketta pondered said question. To her, it was dependent on loyalty, but their missions were slowly uprooting even that. What special bond did she have with these people? She had met them as a result of nearly taking their ship, and very little despite Anikus justified her even remaining with the crew after they docked. If she hadn't wandered into Anikus' cabin at that moment, Marketta likely would have left the crew once they found safe land; there had been no calling, no reason for such loyalty until she revealed where and what Anikus was looking for, and that was via a skill she thought she'd barely use alone.

She felt a fool. Life expectancy rates with this party were fairly depressing, and the plights even more hazardous, yet she trekked on with them for the hope that these shards would prevent the Valdich from dominating the world. Why was she still here? The crew had likely had time to bond for a long time now - she was a weak link, little was keeping her here except hopes to prevent a doomed world.

[Redcoat]

OOC: Regulation evasion powers, ACTIVATE! Now everyone post or I'm going to make some bloody heads roll.

---

"It's a beautiful place," Anikus said genuinely. "I just can't shake the thought..."

His mind immediately went to Sarkos. He then immediately shut up. Gods knew his party needed something to believe in at this stage.

"...Right, then. Disembark!"

And so they did exactly that. The lively port setting sped up the process, and within a few hours they were standing in the streets of Bokkateki in a group. The scholar looked about at the scenery. All in all, the place exuded a kind of calmless of spirit. Even at work, the people here seemed laid-back: more interested in having fun and living life than any of the enormous issues that had marred his life, and those of everyone around him, for the past few months. The contrast was evident. The party, with their battle scars, hardened demeanours and jungle stench, were outsiders here of the highest caliber. Not that this stopped the locals from being as friendly as ever. Anikus had to admire that.

They made their way to an inn, where a kind manager set them up with rooms and a fine lunch. As Anikus munched on his eggs, his head wanted him to return to business. His heart, however, was set on enjoying something--anything--for the first time in a very, very long time. He felt awfully guilty slacking off.

[Lyon]

Telchi paused outside the door of the inn, as Hawk pecked him irritably on the wrist. Damn it, why did I have to get stuck with this abomination? he thought irritably. He looked towards Anikus. "I suppose that I'll be outside if you need me." Hawk pecked him again and pointed down the street with her beak. "On second thought, I'll most likely be taking a long walk. Anyone care to join me?"

Kaethe, meanwhile, was taking a look around the inn and trying to determine what the most advantageous room position would be. Now I just need a good idea for a prank...

[Vithar Megilaglar]

Takeshi glanced around. As expected, Bokkateki was calm as ever.

So it would appear to everyone else. An underlying current of discontent slunk below the general cheer.

"Figured as much." Takeshi muttered.

"Hmm? Oh, you mean...this?" Sakura swept the city with a wide gesture.

"Yes. Something is not right. Like Sarkos. Except I get this odd feeling it's the entire Lands that's in this...ready state."

The whole conversation was muttered, easily lost in the volume of the docks.

"Let's go."

Takeshi and Sakura walked behind the group. Most of the men had a wakizashi thrust into their belt. That was normal. Some carried their katana as well, which was not normal at all. Some women as well carried their naginata.

Outsiders would assume this was normal; after all, Bokkateki was a port. Normally, the citizens were not so armed.

Takeshi and Sakura continued with the group, heading towards an inn. Takesih looked up at the name, quietly laughing. The Sword's Rest. It's sign was a simple, if stylized, sword stand, carrying a sword.

"What is it, Takeshi?"

"The inn. The Sword's Rest. We've needed one for a time. I also imagine quite a few of the sword-stands here are empty."

Takeshi glanced at Kaethe as they entered the inn. "I wouldn't suggest thievery or pranks here. It won't end well for you, especially if you're seen as a danger...or a threat to the...fragile peace."

Takeshi glanced around the inn himself. His study of the inn was interrupted by a somewhat quiet shout.

"Takeshi! Sakura! It has been too long, eh?"

Takeshi turned, seeing a man with a feathered green hat and a duster a similar dark green. "Vaylos! You've been keeping busy, I take it?"

"There's a lot to learn about your people. I knew someone who would've loved to come here." Even Vaylos' normally cheerful demeanor seemed slightly shaded.

"Ha. You don't change a lot. Why don't you sit with us?"

"Sure thing, Sakura, lemme get my things."

It didn't take long for Vaylos to get back. However, he stopped at the table without sitting down. He glared across the table.

"You!" Vaylos cocked his head back. Arrogance crept into his voice.

[Kamikaze_X]

That entire month onboard the ship, Thalmir continued to stay in a cheerful mood. In fact, the fact that they weren't attacked, maimed, or otherwise placed before the blade of some weapon made everything seem bright out - as if there was some hint of life out there. Misfortune, he knew, would surely come back to meet them - it always seemed to considering who happened to be leading them - but for now, he would enjoy the peace and quiet.

During that time, he found himself finally creating his new bow. He had been without one for so long, the wound that the loss of his old bow created seemed to open anew outside of combat and the stress of danger. Taking his time, in the silence of the cabin within the ship they sailed on, he sat day and night at a small wooden desk before candlelight, seeking to create his new recurve bow. All the materials he had gathered, he had toted upon his back, even while bound by Takeshi's magic.

It took a constant effort and that entire month to make his bow. But once it was complete, he looked upon one more powerful and sturdy than his older one. Smiling as he held it in his hand, he finished everything with a coat or polish. Perhaps now he wouldn't feel so.. naked. He had to depend on his claymore the entire time - and as proficient as he was in swordsmanship, he always felt more at home with a bow and quiver filled with arrows. After all, he was a Ranger.

.................................

The land they would spot by the end of the month, was such a place that Thalmir had never seen before. It was incredible - beautiful and tranquil. The people were of a breed unseen by his eyes and the eyes of most of the crew - excluding Takeshi and Sakura of course. As he looked upon them both, they seemed so at home here, back in their land. He was a bit envious, as he traveled all his life. He never really knew the feeling.

"This place, it's unlike anything I have ever seen..." Thalmir said as he walked down the gangplank from the ship.

The trees were of many shades of color, petals of pink flowed with the wind and fell upon the cobbled roads. The people strode with an air of honor and pride, yet an unspoken grace that not many other cultures could share. The architecture also appealed greatly to Thalmir, as he walked alongside his comrades and looked every which way. He couldn't help but act like any other tourist.

Entering The Swords Rest, a cozy inn with tavern, Thalmir followed the others inside. He wondered what their plans in Kyokujitsu would be...

[Lyon]

After such a long time spent in the jungle and at sea, Kaethe was more than ready to get back to civilization. Seeing as Anikus had paid for all of their rooms, she had no qualms about ordering a bath brought to her room's washroom. Once there, she quickly disrobed, carelessly leaving her clothes on the floor outside, and climbed into the tub. Warm water... one of the finest things known to mankind.

She grinned slightly as she remembered the prank she had pulled on Marketta in the jungle. Probably means I'm the only one likely to get a good bath around here... She'd be too afraid that I'd steal her clothes again. Kaethe chuckled to herself. Well, the kitty can probably lick herself clean, anyway...

[Durandal]

Paying for the last bowl of Sake, Marketta retreated to her designated room with haste. Although she had never had much experience with taverns, she'd always heard rumors now and again of how generally, were a woman to remain in a tavern overnight, she'll generally wake up in an undesirable place. Such assumptions on the local populace seemed rude to her, however sadly realistic. No matter the country of origin, there was always a bad side to every civilization. It just happened to usually appear at night.

Sighing with relief that she was able to return to her room without trouble, she silently made her way across her room, until she stepped softly on someone's clothe. Looking down, she almost groaned audibly as Marketta realized it was her clothing. Although Kaethe was certainly... Attractive, she still held sour feelings towards the same woman who decided to sneak off with her clothes. She was childish, arrogant, and sly; oh so irritably sly.

But, her brain mused, this isn't entirely dreadful. Thoughts formulated, and before long her frown became an inhumanely cheshire smile; she could have sworn her eyes altered as well. Putting down her backpack silently, she swiftly pulled a bottle full of red flakes from it, proceeding to lightly add the flakes to the equally red, oddly scant clothing. Finishing quickly with an unsettling snicker, she slipped the substance back into her backpack and quietly left the room, making her way down the stairs once again.

Let us see who has the last laugh.

[Lyon]

After some time, Kaethe reluctantly got out of the bath. Drying herself with one of the towels hanging on the wall, she walked out into the room. Apparently nobody else had been there yet, as her undisturbed clothes were the only thing remaining in the room. She pulled them on quickly, lacing up her shirt front and admiring herself in the mirror. I look much better now that I'm no longer caked with dirt.

As she headed down the stairs, she began to feel an unpleasant itch. She wrinkled her nose slightly, irritated, and, seeing that nobody was around, reached up under her shirt and scratched. However, the scratching only made the itch greater, and worse still, it seemed to be spreading under all of her clothes.

Somewhat worried now, she dashed back to her room and tore off her clothes in front of the mirror. Her eyes widened as she saw an angry red rash spread across her skin where it had been covered by her clothing. As she picked up her shirt again, she saw several red flakes fall out of it. She picked one up, looking at it quizzically, before she understood.

A plant of some sort, all over the inside of my clothes! It must have given me this rash... Her eyes narrowed. Marketta!

She picked up a towel, wrapping it around her, and picked up her clothes in the other hand. Stomping down the stairs, she headed into the common room. "Marketta, what did you do?" she demanded.

[Durandal]

Marketta looked at Kaethe with wide eyes, trying her absolute hardest to keep from laughing obnoxiously at the poor girl. Although it certainly was childish of her to seek revenge, now that she had seen the results of her prank, there was no doubt in her mind that it was entirely worth it. The thing that disappointed her, despite the results, was how easily Kaethe had found the culprit, however justifiable her prediction was.

"Hm? What do you mean, Kaethe?" Marketta questioned in a soft voice, sipping from her newly-ordered sake. Her voice was not quiet out of shyness or modesty of any sort, either - it was all she could do to remain in control; to keep from destroying her entire facade of innocence. If she could get Kaethe to believe she was not behind such an act, she may have to exit the tavern to conceal her laughter from her.

[Kamikaze_X]

Thalmir had contented himself toward sitting at a small circular table by a corner of the room. Picking up a book from an end table nearby, he started flipping through a few pages before attempting to read it. The writing was quite curious to him, and ultimately indecipherable. The characters were essentially foreign to him, considering how he had never journeyed this way before. Taking a sip of sake, he felt the warm rice wine fall down his throat, burning pleasantly the entire way.

Finally, a much needed rest. I think all of us need it..., Thalmir thought to himself as he felt his ribs. A small twinge of pain forced him to grimace for a moment. At least he was healing, if a bit slowly. In his peaceful state, he looked about the common room that he sat in. The people of this city were quiet, yet seemingly honorable. Manners and honorifics were present in their actions and speech, topped by polite bows and gestures toward civilians. He also noticed that the people gave the same respect toward foreigners like himself, however the feeling behind their smiles and bowing was a bit different. It was no different than any other city, however a facade of kindness was thrown as a veil over untrusting and curious perceptions by the locals.

Sitting in the quiet room was fine enough for him - at least until that peaceful silence broke due to the argument of Marketta and Kaethe. The latter, who stormed into the common room in not but a towel went straight for Marketta. Something was amiss, Thalmir guessed it was merely a petty squabble and closed his eyes, taking another sip of his sake.

"What are you two bickering about? You're making a bit of a scene. We're guests here you know." Thalmir said, placing the book back on the end table by his seat.

[Lyon]

((JP!))

The thief completely ignored Thalmir, instead confronting Marketta. "What do you mean, you don't know what happened?" demanded Kaethe, her face red. "I get dressed after my bath and suddenly I have a fast-developing rash that leaves nasty red marks all over my skin! Who else would do something like that?"

"How did anyone get your clothes without your knowledge to begin with?" Marketta asked, trying to avoid a direct answer for as long as possible.

"I wasn't wearing them at the time," said Kaethe, clutching her towel tightly. "I was taking a bath!"

"Yes, we all tend to do that, Kaethe. Unlike that one time, however, I'm sure there was a door between anyone and your clothes."

"You know perfectly well there was a door there!" exclaimed Kaethe, not caring that she was making a scene and seemed to be attracting a lot of attention. "It's a room, after all."

"I'm kind of baffled as to how anyone could snatch your clothes, then. Wouldn't they have to enter the same room?" Marketta quipped, no longer needing to withhold the facade. The conundrum she was proposing made it far too easy for Marketta to conceal her relishing.

"About time you admitted it!" said Kaethe, glaring. "There'd better be a cure for this, or I swear, I'll... I'll..."

"Admit to what? I'm offended that you think I'm doing this to you. As well, what is it, exactly? I can't cure things if I don't know what they are."

"What do you mean?" asked Kaethe, looking suddenly worried.

"I mean I can't treat something without first seeing what it is. Unless you'd prefer I pull something out of my backpack at random and decide that's the cure?" Marketta explained, patting her backpack which was no beside her.

Kaethe looked huffily at Marketta. "Well, then, if you need to see it, come back to the room and I'll show you. I'll even give you a sample of the herb that did it to me, although I'm sure you'll claim not to recognize it."

"I'd probably recognize it, don't worry." Scooping up her backpack, she allowed Kaethe to lead onwards.

Once they had reached the room, Kaethe dropped her clothing on the floor and gingerly unwrapped her towel. She stood somewhat uncomfortably in the middle of the room, waiting for Marketta's diagnosis and wishing that she was wearing more. It wouldn't normally have bothered her, but there was something about Marketta...

Marketta closed the door behind them, ensuring it was locked before she turned around - which she soon wish she hadn't. Although the rash had, as planned, very easily spread throughout her body in the short time she gave the substance, this did not save Marketta from the blood that rushed to her cheeks immeadiately. Gawking at Kaethe momentarily, she soon composed herself, nodding her head as she rustled through her backpack for the correct treatment.

"There is no 'cure'. It's a simple inflammation. This ointment should treat it just fine - wash yourself with water to remove traces of the herb, use the ointment, and it should go away in about a hour. As for your clothing, you may wish to wash them as well." Holding out a simple bottle, she awaited Kaethe's reaction.

Kaethe lunged forward to grab the bottle and then, somewhat ashamedly, held out her hand. "Um... thank you. I suppose." She picked up her clothes and began washing them with what was left of the bathwater.

"You're welcome." Marketta replied simply, heading for the door. She wondered if it was possible for Kaethe to feel guilt - it would be quite interesting if she was able to. Maybe, just maybe, she'd return from washing her clothes and apologize to her. Such thoughts however were far fetched, and even she doubted the possibility.

As soon as Marketta left, Kaethe sighed with relief. I'm glad that she gave me the bottle, at least. She tested some of it, wiping it across the affected area, and was gratified to see that the inflammation went down somewhat. This stuff works wonders!

Ten minutes later, much less itchy and wearing her freshly washed clothes, Kaethe descended the stairs and approached the table where Marketta was sitting. She shifted uncomfortably from foot to foot as she waited for the other woman to notice her. Finally, she spoke up softly.

"Um... I'm sorry about that whole thing in the forest. I was being... umm..."

Marketta sensed Kaethe walking up behind her, however her attention only adjusted when she began to apologize. Wide eyed, she almost choked on her unfinished sake when she heard the woman utter the words 'I'm sorry'. Turning around with a sincere expression, she smiled; not with a cruel, 'I win' smile, but a kind one. "Apology accepted, Kaethe, and thank you. I see the treatment helped it immensely?"

She's not bad after all... now why would I have pulled that prank on her? ...Hmmm. Maybe because I was immature... Kaethe realized that she had been standing silently for several moments and hurriedly said, "Well, yes, the treatment was a lot of help, although of course you can't see, since... well, what I mean is that since I..." She hurriedly shut her mouth. "Yes. Thank you."

Blushing, Marketta cleared her throat as she pushed the not-so-distant memory from her mind. "You're welcome, Kaethe. A-anyways, you want a drink? On me." I could get used to a humble Kaethe. Indictating the vacant seat beside her, she awaited for the thief to finally unwind after such an ordeal.

Kaethe smiled and sat down. "I'd like that."

[Redcoat]

<JP!>

"Me!" Anikus replied. He knew that voice. Vaylos! he thought. Speak of the devil... "Slain any dragons lately?"

"Ha!" Vaylos shook his head. "I'm no dragon slayer. Surely you, a scholar, would know that. Unless, of course, you faked the whole scholarly act to win some hearts."

"Too much work lately to be winning over any hearts," Anikus said, knowing that Vaylos would know what he meant, without actually knowing details of the assignment. "What in Her name brings you to this place, anyway?"

"Adventuring. You might call it studying abroad." Vaylos studied the rest of the group. "You don't travel with the scholarly types. You make for one sad scholar, you know."

Anikus laughed a bit. Just like Vaylos to judge them after the hell they'd been through. "Don't come to conclusions too quickly, friend. We've scholars enough in this crowd!" he said, trying to be cheery. Vaylos and he had an understanding, of sorts, but he could get under his skin at times. Or perhaps it was how he felt about his group. "Perhaps I will write a long, long treatise when I return to the Capital, though. Gods know it would do me good, with all the reading I've left behind."

"You would. I'm not likely to read it." He glanced at Takeshi and Sakura, both of whom were ordering a meal. "How'd you drag them into the hell you carry with you all the time? Where do you carry it? In that small house you call a bag?"

"I've a talent for misadventures, as you of all people ought to know," Anikus said, smiling impishly. "You must admit, the Headmaster did recover from the shock."

"Barely. I heard he's still afraid of thunder to this day." Vaylos' face went from friendly to serious. He wiped some dust from his lapel, revealing a pin that Anikus knew all too well. "I know you enough to know you didn't come here for vacation. So...why?"

"Her Majesty's business, I'm afraid," Anikus said, his tone darkening severely. "I presume you're aware of Magical Conspiracy Number Four?"

"Ah. That. Did you come here for information?" Vaylos leaned back, once again seeming to stare down his nose at Anikus.

"This is a bit of a vacation stop, actually. You'd understand if you'd have came with us," Anikus mentioned, shuddering slightly before continuing. "I suppose a little bit of research is in order. What makes you mention that?"

"Ask Takeshi. Even better, ask Sakura. As a Chr... Well, the roles they play mean they know quite a bit regarding the subject." Vaylos glanced over at the pair. They were coming back to the table. "They come now. Maybe you can ask if you wish. I'll tell you this, there is a lot you don't know about the subject."

"Maybe I will," Anikus said, beginning to be fed up with Vaylos for the time being. He chuckled a bit. "And I'd like to remind you who got out of the Army!"

"I felt like serving Arkova for more than a few months. Eventually, decided to leave and...see the world." Undertones told Anikus that "seeing the world" translated more into "finding out about the subject".

"And what've you 'seen'?" Anikus asked, interested. "Hopefully we've seen through Black's gambit?"

"Black's gambit is set up well. I think I might be missing a critical piece. Or maybe a critical move..." Vaylos looked up. "Ah! Takeshi, Sakura! I think Anikus has some questions for you."

Anikus looked up at the pair. Something told him that Fate, that horrible, horrible man in the sky, was watching this meeting, writing out what would happen next with some sort of nefarious, horrible grin on his face. But perhaps, just once, he would be kind.

"So, my friend here tells me you've some information that might be useful..." he said, looking around. Nobody appeared to be listening in. "It would be a great help to the quest."

Vaylos nodded, letting Takeshi and Sakura take the spotlight.

Takeshi smiled slightly. "Ah. Yes we do, in fact." Takeshi looked over at Sakura. The latter shrugged. Takeshi started again. "Tomorrow, we can make a short trip to a more relaxing - and private - location. There's more knowledge there than we can care to remember."

"Of course," Anikus said, deeply understanding the need for privacy. "And will our friend here be joining us?"

"Yes. I will not be left behind." Vaylos puffed out his chest.

"Ha. We wouldn't think to leave you, Vaylos." Takeshi shook his head, a small grin on his face.

[Durandal]

(Another JP, MothaFUCKAS)

Kaethe put down her fourth bowl of sake and laughed somewhat unsteadily. "I don't know if I've said thank you yet. So thank you," she said, carefully enunciating her words.

Marketta, buzzed herself, had decided to allow Kaethe to primarily drink, chuckling as she slowly fell deeper and deeper into a drunken haze. It would have been a lie, however, to say she had not been affected by the alcohol. "You've already said thank you like, tons of times now. Yo-ou're welcome though."

"Thank you," said Kaethe once again, giggling at her own wit. "Still, I ought to stop spending all of your money on liq... liqu... wine." She pushed herself back from the table, forgetting that her chair had no backrest, and fell flat on the floor. The thief looked quizzically up at the ceiling. "That's strange..."

Marketta bust out into an unrestrained laugh when she watched Kaethe collapse to the floor. Recovering from the hilarity of her fall, Marketta finally began to speak. "I-I think you should get to bed, that sake literally knocked you out." Giggling further, she made he way off her chair, offering Kaethe a hand to get back up.

Kaethe took the hand gratefully, leaning heavily on Marketta's shoulder as the other woman helped her up the stairs. "I probably should. I'm very tired, you know."

Yawning, Marketta realized she herself likely needed some sleep as well. "Yeah. Sleep would be nice." Helping Kaethe all the way up the stairs, Marketta lead them into their room, leading Kaethe to her bed so she could put down her backpack, which felt heavier than before.

Kaethe kicked off her shoes and began fumbling with her shirt-laces. "Damn it, they're all tangled up!" she muttered. "Marketta, help!" In her current intoxicated state she thought nothing of what she was asking.

Self-awareness seemed to do little to help Marketta, as she felt herself blushing once again, furiously. Although Kaethe's question was innocent at heart, actually helping her would be rather awkward, if maybe a little satisfying. Wait, what am I thinking?

"Uhm... S-Sure, sure. I'll help." Putting down her backpack, she went over to Kaethe, untying her shirt laces. If Kaethe had noticed her, she'd likely have regained some humility from the inhuman red that was awash on Marketta's face - ruby red, in fact.

"Thank you," said Kaethe, smiling brightly and slipping out of her shirt and trousers. She yawned widely and laid her head on the pillow, not even bothering with the sheets. "Good night..."

"Uhm... I... Goo-ood night!" Marketta immeadiately decided to strip down herself, ignoring her naked companion for her own safety. If I blush any more I'll bleed from my cheeks. She thought, lying down in her own bed.

[Redcoat]

Anikus and the rest of the party were in bed. There was something strange about that. Sure, he had a bed aboard the Arrow, but this bed in the Sword Rest was clean, and warm, and he was clean, and he could relax. The ground was static, unlike the sea. As if that wasn't enough, his belly was full of warm food and strong ale, and the next day, he was going to do some archival work. He was even happy to see Vaylos, of all people. Something told him he didn't want to know what information Takeshi and Sakura had to offer him, but he felt braver in this place.

The party also seemed to be enjoying themselves. Especially Marketta and Kaethe. Something told him that something else was up there, but he decided not to pry. He was simply glad to see everyone happy. For once.

[Lyon]

Kaethe woke a few hours after sunrise, feeling well-rested and more than slightly surprised that Anikus had allowed them to sleep this long. Then again, maybe he was doing business on his own. I wouldn't mind the chance to see a bit of this city if that is what he's doing.

She looked around the room, seeing that Marketta was still sleeping. I have to hand it to her, she was much more graceful than I would have been if our positions were reversed... The thief quietly rose, walking across the room to lean against the wall near the head of Marketta's bed.

She looks so peaceful when she's asleep. Makes me wonder how she could ever have yelled at me when she was awake. Kaethe smiled. Then again, I probably did deserve it. She stiffened slightly at a noise, then realized it was just Marketta stirring awake.

As Marketta slowly regained consciousness, she was provided with the most calming of sights. That is, she awoke to see the eyes of Kaethe staring down upon her. She couldn't help but notice a sense of longing in her eyes; however this did little to detract from the fact she awoke to such an awkward situation.

Remaining frozen for what seemed like minutes, Marketta pieced together the most calm response she could muster from the depths of her barely-aware mind. "Uhm, hello. You're early to rise." She could have come up with a more preferable reply, however her mind refused to function in such ways. Not at this hour.

"Good morning," said Kaethe with a grin. "I was wondering how long it would take you to notice." Her smile grew slightly fainter. "Back at the guild we would have started taking bets. We were all light sleepers. It was the only way for us to avoid losing our stuff."

Surprised, Marketta couldn't help but feel sorry for the woman. "Were the guildmembers your friends? Or was it a more... Businesslike relationship?" Marketta couldn't help but feel slightly awkward mentioning relationships, but she continued onwards anyways.

Kaethe looked somewhat uncomfortable. "Friends... colleagues... doesn't really matter now. I lost contact with them when I joined Anikus." She shifted her position, tapping one foot. "So..."

"I see..." Marketta replied, herself trailing off. Unfortunately for her innocence, this immediately meant realizing Kaethe had yet to properly dress herself. At all. Marketta would be lying if she said she didn't look Kaethe down, but as soon as she did she looked away in guilt and embarrassment, trying to hide yet another blush. "Perhaps we should get dressed and rejoin the others for some breakfast?"

Kaethe, somewhat contrarily, sat down on the foot of Marketta's bed. She grinned wickedly as she caught Marketta's facial expression. "Why, I do believe you're embarrassed! I don't quite understand why, though... it's nothing you haven't seen before." Kaethe had learned quickly not to be ashamed of her own body, and if she wasn't, why should anyone else be? "Besides, breakfast will last another hour at least, which gives us plenty of time to chat."

Marketta wanted to groan. If it was the one thing that bothered her most about Kaethe's attitude was her lack of humility and boisterousness. Not even when sober did she seem to understand the term 'awkward'. Her usual, self-conscious approach wouldn't cut it. If anything it'd likely push her to further lengths. Inwardly sighing, she admitted she never did think she was good with wit.

"You ah, didn't seem so boastful last night." Marketta quiped, trying to spoil her fun. Hoping her blush had resided, she attempted (attempted being a key word) a sly smile.

"That was because I was dealing with an unexpected situation that could have been a deadly disease!" said Kaethe. "One never knows what horrible plagues could have been in that horrible underworld." She shuddered. "Thankfully, it was just a prank." She paused a moment before grudgingly admitting, "A good one, too. But now I'm back to my usual beautiful self... wouldn't you agree?"

Cursing her socially awkward self, she tried to think of a response. A little too late, as well. "Yeah, you're right." Marketta responded, her mind taking a couple seconds to realize that her mouth had suddenly betrayed her. Here we go, Marketta thought, holding her tongue for dear life.

"Thank you," said Kaethe, completely unaware that Marketta had slipped up. She stood and stretched. "Well, I suppose that we could head down now, if you really want to..."

[Vithar Megilaglar]

Takeshi rode out early in the morning, not waking Sakura, although the latter would know why he was absent.

The road was, for now, empty of the usual port traffic. He looked around. The road was quickly surrounded by trees, although Takeshi noted the nigh-invisible patrol trails used by the Wardens to keep banditry in check. The road itself was paved with cobbles, causing the forest to echo with a rhythmic clopping. Takeshi looked around.

"It's good to be home, for whatever it's worth," he muttered. He continued to follow the road, until he reached a fork in the road. He followed the right fork into the forest. It was thicker here, and path was smaller; no wagons of trade goods had to use this path.

The path was far from straight; several yards from the edge of the path, the reason was evident: a stream bubbled past.

Takeshi glanced at the stream. It flowed heavier than usual as the snows that still clung to the higher hills and mountains melted. Takeshi crested the small hill he was on and got a glance at a comforting sight.

Clinging to the side of a valley, a small, walled cluster of buildings sat. Although the walls looked pretty, rather than functional. A tower rose high, and globes of light similar to those in Bokkateki (steady, emerald green) hung above the tower.

Takeshi smiled, and continued to follow the road. The buildings were white, with similar curving slate roofs to Bokkateki. The road lead over bridge that jumped over a waterfall. Takeshi looked down.

"Still a long drop, son?" The speaker was tall, and looked like he was etched from stone; albeit caring stone. He studied Takeshi with a keen eye. The man's voice would have been the pride of any general.

"Yes indeed father. I assume the months have treated you well?"

"Better than they have you, it seems. Tell me good news brings you here." Another man, this one bearing a much softer expression, spoke with a more scholarly and quieter voice.

"Fear not, she is fine indeed. I, however, must make some requests."

"Indeed. What form will these requests take?"

"Are the spare resthouses still unused?"

"Yes. Do you have a party coming here to rest or something?" Takeshi's father asked.

"I do. And it's a larger party. And the library...?"

"As intact as my daughter would have left it." The other man, presumably Sakura's father, followed up.

Takeshi bowed as deeply as he could on a horse. "I must collect the party. Be warned. One among the party is...painfully inquisitive."

Takeshi rode back towards Bokkateki. He arrived at the Sword's Rest shortly before the first wagon-traffic left Bokkateki. He entered the inn. Sakura and Vaylos had already claimed a table.

"They'll be ready to receive us, Sakura. Just have to await everyone getting down here first."