eightfoldjourney

[eightfoldjourney]

Agnea waved Noelle goodbye, slightly concerned about her new friend, but otherwise trusting that she could manage on her own for a while. The superstar had to make sure her concert preparations were in order, after-all. She'd definitely be sure to send Noelle a ticket a later down the line...

~~~

Back here again. Throné hadn't been to New Delsta in quite some time. This city always brought back uncomfortable memories, but there were some good ones attached to it, too... Of course, her memories weren't the reason why Throné had come back here.

Word had it that Agnea would be performing at the New Delsta theater again, and her old traveling companion's performances were one of the few things that could bring Throné out of her secluded little home. She was enjoying a drink at the inn, seemingly minding her own business, but subconsciously monitoring her surroundings. Some habits never truly died...

As Throné drank, she noted a young woman in a blue cloak enter. Nothing really worth noting there... Except for the oddly silent manner of the stranger's movements. Most might not even register such a thing amidst the other noises of the inn, but Throné couldn't help but take notice...

"Oh! Yes, of course. Please don't let me delay you getting to the theatre." Noelle insisted. "And thank you, both for the protection and travel company, but for showing me around today, Agnea."

She smiled warmly and bowed to the dancer.

---

Following her departure, Noelle would wander around the city a bit, taking in the sights.

Maybe she could scrounge up some things worth bartering with and treat herself to something here in the city. But this was something best done another day.

She eventually found her way back to the inn as the evening was setting in, and she would attempt to secure a room for the night while she planned her next move.

[eightfoldjourney]

Luckily for Rain, Partitio was a trusting sort, and not the most adept at reading deceptions... Even though he had become a little more wary about such things due to a certain incident in his past. He saw Rain exactly as presented: a traveling merchant and hunter setting out into the wider world for the first time.

"Heh. Friend, what you just described is the island of Toto'Haha. Smaller communities, plenty o' animals and monsters in the dense jungle, and never a lack o' work to be found, long as ya don't mind a little danger. Mind ya, the beastlings there prefer bartering to coin, but there are human settlements too."

Suddenly, Partitio leaned forward, his face becoming a bit serious. "Just, ah, mind ya follow the rules. There's a couple o' mighty fierce guardians on the island who protect the ecosystem, and they're none-too-kind toward poaching or overhuntin'. One of 'em is actually a good friend o' mine! I could maybe write ya a letter of introduction, if ya like."

Despite trying to appear aloof, the knight was paying very close attention to every little detail about the man. He made mental notes of how he acted and how he treated others, and much to Rain's delight, he saw how he treated the staff. He took a sip of his drink as well while being told about how Partitio traveled all over the land and spoke of Clockbank, New Delsta, and Montwise. Locations he would have to familiarize himself with or avoid talking about when sharing his 'history' with others.

When a question was thrown his way, Rain would let out a small chuckle before shaking his head. "No, like I said, I have mostly stuck to the wilderness. I have heard tales from those who passed by our area. It sounds like a great deal of fun. I do recall, whenever my parents took me with them to towns for supplies, some people were also discussing such, but as I said I have never had the chance to see such myself. Perhaps some day when I have enough funds, though I would like to find a location to settle in for the most part."

Another chance for him to gain more information. "If you know any spots that would not mind a hunter living amongst the populace and would be willing to buy from such a man, I would be willing to make a deal with you for such information. I am not just a hunter of game either, I am quite the fighter when it comes to monsters and beasts, so anywhere with a form of job-board for doing such tasks would always be very welcome too. Even if it is just a small community, I would not mind it."

[eightfoldjourney]

Glacis stared down at Nessa, as if trying to gauge the truth of the human's words with her gaze alone. After a moment, the great beast spoke again. "...I can see you are being sincere. Very well." Suddenly, Glacis descended, placing her talons on the ground. "If you intend to reach the Nameless Village before nightfall, you will need to be swift. Climb upon my back, and I shall carry you both there."

"Oh wow..." Ochette's ears perked up and her tail wagged. "Glacis has never allowed anyone to ride her before!" Mahina hooed in agreement. It seemed that both were a little awestruck by this sudden turn of events.

Glacis averted her gaze. "Hmph. This is hardly a matter worth making a fuss over... At any rate, time is wasting." She lowered herself a bit further. "Make haste, and hold tightly to me."

Nessa would meekly raise her gaze for now not interrupting the two but merely...observing and listening. The Nameless village....it sounded vaguely familiar but not she did not wish to be hasty, for now her presence was small as the two spoke. Almost like a doormouse she would simply remain quiet.

But her mind was already carefully checking its own archive trying to connect the information they got so far and what are the possibilities. She was glad it was not a calamity, however someone toying with powers that could tip the fragile ecosystem here, why would someone do that? What was the purpose?

The answer lied in the Ruins for certain....

Before she could finish that train of thought Glacis addressed her, causing Nessa to straighten her back and nervously glance at Ochette to ease her mind. "Forgive me once again I know this might sound a bit bold coming from a human one such as myself but...." she would look up at the guardian, unwavering despite swallowing hard as she proceeds to speak.

"What I seek is knowledge and understanding, but also I am worried that whoever is responsible for this might be a human themselves. I....simply wish to stop a tragedy from happening by the hand of someone who is part of my people.

Thats all there is to it....no grand goal. "

[eightfoldjourney]

Castti always tried to prioritize non-lethal strikes when facing human opponents, but she was still surprisingly fierce when push came to shove. The apothecary knocked her second opponent outcold on the floor, while the other was left bleeding.

Once that was done, Castti turned her focus to Saya and her opponents. There was only one assassin left now, and they seemed to realize the precarious situation they were in. Suddenly, the assassin threw a flash bomb, blinding both women long enough to try and make a getaway.

Castti grunted in frustration, but then looked to Saya. "...You're hurt. Let me see your arm." She was injured as well, but unsurprisingly, the apothecary prioritized someone else's health over her own...

Saya's assailants stumbled from her counter-attacks, but seemed to recover just as quickly. Whoever these people were, they were professionals; not even her suddenly manifesting a blade out of nowhere appeared to faze them for long. The strangers simply moved in again. This time, one took the lead, thrusting a dagger... But it was a feint. The other leaped into the air and tried to come down on Saya from an angle.

Elsewhere, Castti continued to fend off her own assailants. They'd gotten one or two cuts in, but the apothecary took something from her bag and tossed it on the ground. A strange substance gushed forth, causing her assassins stumble awkward. Castti took advantage of the opening to cut one down with her ask, before attempting to subdue the other.

[eightfoldjourney]

"Heh. I can relate to that, somewhat. My Pa's the one who set me down the merchant's path from an early age. 'Course, that's in large part because I took an interest in it. Nothin' wrong with followin' in your parents' footsteps, long as it's the path YOU wanna walk." Just as Partitio said that, the drinks arrived, and he wasted no time giving the server a little tip.

Partitio had a drink as Rain posed his question. "Hm? Oh, most definitely! I travel all over. I've been to just about every town on the map, though when I go to the Eastern Continent, it's usually to visit Clockbank or New Delsta. Sometimes Montwise."

He took another drink. "I'd love to visit Merry Hills again though. Last time I went there was to watch a friend perform in the Galla! You ever been?"

it was during the pause that Rain would let out a small chuckle while scratching the back of his head. It was not often most people would choose to use his full first name rather than his given nickname. "Ah, a pleasure Mr. Partitio, but please, Rain is much easier to address me as." It truly did feel odd, but he knows a lot of people much prefer to address him properly, but given he is not using his knight title as well, it just feels too weird. He half expected a lecture or to be scolded for something upon hearing such.

When the man made mention he was the one to see in regards to business, he would let out a small sigh of relief while placing a hand on his chest. "Oh thank goodness. I was worried I might have to search for hours to find a proper location to sell my wares. If you would like, we can find an area and I can show you what I have." With any luck it wasn't too impressive or would cause him to stand out too much. The last thing he needed was to get the attention of a merchant who seemed to be quite the big-shot if his clothes were any indicator of such.

The knight tended to enjoy such people though, a merchant was much more straight forward to deal with than most nobles and even most people in general. So long as their was business to be had, there was a conversation you could share with them, and most times it would end in a pleasant manner or at the very least would not result in a screaming match unless one truly lacked class. If Partitio was anything like the others he's seen, this could mean a lot of gain and a potential confidant for Rain.

[eightfoldjourney]

A bow would have certainly been useful, or a spear... In truth, a large part of why the previous battles had been so easy was because Temenos and Sky were able to exploit their foes' weaknesses. The Frostwing Serpents, though, would prove a little more difficult in that regard.

Before Temenos could say as much, Sky used the same peculiar magic as before, turning herself into a giant. Temenos stepped back a bit to minimize the risk of being trampled. "Do watch out for their talons. There's not much I can do about their venom."

Almost as if on cue, a few of the serpents hissed and dove toward Sky, trying to sink their claws into her. Perhaps making herself into a larger target was not the most sound decision, but maybe her armor would protect her somewhat?

As Sky finished off the Mushrooms, Temenos reached into pouch to have an inspiriting plum or two, replenishing his supply of magical energy. He had to admit: this was going more quickly than expected... In large part due to Sky's strange and unnatural abilities. But just how much longer would that haughty attitude last, he wondered?

"Pride before the fall, young lady. Still, I suppose I should commend you for putting us well ahead of schedule. I... Ah, no time for talk." Suddenly, several shadows passed by overhead. Should Sky look up, she'd see several Frostwing Serpents circling, their eyes clearly focused on the pair of humans down below.

"Oh dear... This might be rather difficult."

[eightfoldjourney]

As usual, things are quite busy for me. I hope to at least get caught up on all the replies I owe by the end of the week. Right now, it's tough to even get one response done.

[eightfoldjourney]

Saya's assailants stumbled from her counter-attacks, but seemed to recover just as quickly. Whoever these people were, they were professionals; not even her suddenly manifesting a blade out of nowhere appeared to faze them for long. The strangers simply moved in again. This time, one took the lead, thrusting a dagger... But it was a feint. The other leaped into the air and tried to come down on Saya from an angle.

Elsewhere, Castti continued to fend off her own assailants. They'd gotten one or two cuts in, but the apothecary took something from her bag and tossed it on the ground. A strange substance gushed forth, causing her assassins stumble awkward. Castti took advantage of the opening to cut one down with her ask, before attempting to subdue the other.

Castti drew her axe, eyeing the figures warily. There looked to be four in total, all of them obscuring their faces with masks and hoods. "Who are you?" She didn't really anticipate an answer, but hoped to at least stall for time.

The stranger's did not respond. They moved as one, rushing in toward Castti and Saya with wicked-looking daggers. These people were fast, and Castti was narrowly able to dodge a strike on her left while lashing out toward the assailant on her right with her axe.

The other two went for Saya: one going high, the other low.

[eightfoldjourney]

"Ah, fair enough! How's about the local tavern? I can treat us both to a drink while ya show me what you've got." Partitio certainly didn't mind paying for both of them. In fact, it was a fairly common occurrence for the merchant. Nothing like discussing business over good food and drink, after-all.

Luckily, though much of Oresrush had changed after the addition of the railroad, the tavern was still right where it had always been: up an incline on the northeastern side of town. Partitio led the way, assuming Rain had no objections.

At this time of day, business was slow, with only a handful of other patrons. The barkeep instantly recognized Partitio and greeted him warmly. Partitio returned the favor, giving her a friendly wave before ordering a table for two. A moment later, he and Rain were seated. Once drinks had been ordered, Partitio decided to start with small talk.

"So, where're ya from, Rain? Somewhere on the Eastern Continent, I'd wager?"

it was during the pause that Rain would let out a small chuckle while scratching the back of his head. It was not often most people would choose to use his full first name rather than his given nickname. "Ah, a pleasure Mr. Partitio, but please, Rain is much easier to address me as." It truly did feel odd, but he knows a lot of people much prefer to address him properly, but given he is not using his knight title as well, it just feels too weird. He half expected a lecture or to be scolded for something upon hearing such.

When the man made mention he was the one to see in regards to business, he would let out a small sigh of relief while placing a hand on his chest. "Oh thank goodness. I was worried I might have to search for hours to find a proper location to sell my wares. If you would like, we can find an area and I can show you what I have." With any luck it wasn't too impressive or would cause him to stand out too much. The last thing he needed was to get the attention of a merchant who seemed to be quite the big-shot if his clothes were any indicator of such.

The knight tended to enjoy such people though, a merchant was much more straight forward to deal with than most nobles and even most people in general. So long as their was business to be had, there was a conversation you could share with them, and most times it would end in a pleasant manner or at the very least would not result in a screaming match unless one truly lacked class. If Partitio was anything like the others he's seen, this could mean a lot of gain and a potential confidant for Rain.

[eightfoldjourney]

A brief message from the Travelers

Ochette: "You know, there's no wrong way to live your life, so long as you're not causing needless harm to others."

Castti: "Discovering yourself can be a long and difficult road, but it's a journey we must all undertake."

Throné: "Don't ever let anyone tell you who or what you're allowed to be, because your freedom is the most valuable treasure you have."

Osvald: "Love takes many forms, and all of them are equally precious."

Partitio: "Ya can't put a price on happiness, so get out there and go find your own!"

Agnea: "Know that there are always people ready and willing to cheer you on, no matter where you path leads you."

Temenos: "It's okay to doubt yourself at times, because that's all part of the process to uncovering your own truth."

Hikari: "Only through love and acceptance, both of ourselves and each other, can we hope to build a brighter tomorrow."

[eightfoldjourney]

Oh man. Kind of surreal to think I've already been running this blog for two years. I know my activity is sporadic as hell and replies can take an eternity, but genuinely, thanks to everyone who's stuck around and RP'd with me for all this time. Here's hoping we can continue this journey for a while yet!

[eightfoldjourney]

Glacis gazed down upon the young woman suspiciously, but quickly forced herself to put her reservations aside. "Hmph. I assume the 'urgent matter' you refer to is the increase in monster activity across the island."

Ochette nodded. "Yeah, that's right! We were hoping you might know something. We talked to Terra earlier and he had no clue what was going on..." The hunter shifted her bow. "You don't think it has anything to do with the you-know-what, do you?"

Glacis was silent for a moment, before speaking. "No. This is no sign of calamity, but rather, the result of foolish meddling. Something has transpired in the Nameless Village, Ochette. The monsters within the ancient ruins there have been provoked, and are pouring out elsewhere across the island." Glacis shifted her gaze back to Nessa. "But tell me, human: why have you come? As the appointed guardian of Toto'Haha, it is Ochette's duty to resolve this matter. For what reason do you accompany her?"

She was grateful for Ochette being considerate of her, since in reality the young woman was still growing into the boots of a vagabond. Its been so long since she had to hike to these sort of hikes, if they were not on such a mission she would most likely want to take more time to enjoy the view.

But time was not something they could afford now.

"Ah, it reminds me of the Professor a bit " she cant help but to chuckle a bit, she admired Osvald greatly, while she never saw him being extremely mad, she had a feeling that sight would be terrifying and she hoped to see that at any point.

Slowly she would stand up again ready to continue once again. "But what about mmm....her views on humans? Does she hold us in any sort of regard?"

[eightfoldjourney]

As Sky finished off the Mushrooms, Temenos reached into pouch to have an inspiriting plum or two, replenishing his supply of magical energy. He had to admit: this was going more quickly than expected... In large part due to Sky's strange and unnatural abilities. But just how much longer would that haughty attitude last, he wondered?

"Pride before the fall, young lady. Still, I suppose I should commend you for putting us well ahead of schedule. I... Ah, no time for talk." Suddenly, several shadows passed by overhead. Should Sky look up, she'd see several Frostwing Serpents circling, their eyes clearly focused on the pair of humans down below.

"Oh dear... This might be rather difficult."

Had Temenos poured more energy into it, he could have formed a shield that completely negated the monsters' attacks rather than simply dulling the impact. That, however, would have meant exhausting ore of his energy reserves. Surely the mercenary could handle a hit or two...

Ah, but then there was another strange incantation. Suddenly, the mushroom's attack struck its kin, leaving a slightly bewildered Temenos to ponder what had just happened. Such peculiar magic... But alas, no time to contemplate it, as the mushrooms were quick to adjust and rush toward Sky yet again.

Temenos was no real scholar of magic; he was a cleric, first and foremost. However, it would be a lie to say that he picked up no magical tricks during his journey. Light wouldn't do much good against these overgrown fungi, so...

"Strike them down!" Temenos called forth bolts of lightning upon the fungi, once again dazing them where they stood. He'd need a plum or two after that, but hopefully Sky could finish things off from here...

[eightfoldjourney]

Castti drew her axe, eyeing the figures warily. There looked to be four in total, all of them obscuring their faces with masks and hoods. "Who are you?" She didn't really anticipate an answer, but hoped to at least stall for time.

The stranger's did not respond. They moved as one, rushing in toward Castti and Saya with wicked-looking daggers. These people were fast, and Castti was narrowly able to dodge a strike on her left while lashing out toward the assailant on her right with her axe.

The other two went for Saya: one going high, the other low.

Castti cocked her head. "You think it's outside? Hmm?" She tried to contemplate what it could be. A plant, perhaps? One that grows in the region? Something began clicking into place in Castti's mind, and a wave of dread washed over her.

"Oh no... I have a bad feeling about this..." Before Castti could say anything else, a group of robes figures suddenly emerged from the shadows. Castti looked up and narrowed her gaze. "Saya, be on your guard!"

[eightfoldjourney]

Wanted bounty poster

"...I did not ASSASSINATE Harvey. He destroyed himself, in the end..."

Take from: @eyesofcuriosity

Tagging: @songofsilentechoes, @linklewinklewoman, @moonlitsorceress, @the-storm-chaser and anyone else who wants to do it.

[eightfoldjourney]

Agnea nodded, waving goodbye to Gil before walking back out onto the street with Noelle. At the other woman's comment, Agnea cocked her head. "Hmm? Oh, you don't need to worry about that! Like I said: I can get you a ticket, easily enough!"

Agnea glanced back toward the road that lead to the upper district. "On that note, I'm afraid I may need to get going soon. I have to report to the theater... You can find your way back to the inn, can't you?"

"We can move on." Noelle assures Agnea. "Perhaps we can return in the evening for drinks. But I'm fine at the moment."

She chuckles. "It helps to be off the ship, so I don't feel tossed about."

"I would dearly love to hear the full version of this song. I hope I can secure a ticket to this upcoming performance."

[eightfoldjourney]

This man seemed to have his head in the clouds a bit, not that Partitio was one to judge. Rather, he found himself silently wondering where Rainald was from. The style of dress was a little hard to pin down, but definitely not from around here...

"Name's Partitio. Good to meet ya, Rainald." Partitio gave that a brief moment. He wasn't really the sort to flaunt his wealth or status, but a lot of people did tend to take pause when the merchant introduced himself. After-all, he WAS the co-owner of one of the biggest businesses in Solistia, though again, fame was more of a byproduct than a real goal for him.

"Well, whatever you're trade, if you're lookin' to do some business, I'm your man! lemme take a gander at whatcha got, if ya don't mind."

A Mercantile Meeting

Ah, Oresrush. It was good to be home. Partitio stepped off the train and took a big whiff of the desert air. This place had changed a lot since the construction of the railroad, but that scent also brought with it plenty of nostalgic memories.

A shame he couldn't afford to stop and reminisce for long. After greeting a few people at the station, Partitio made his way to the market. As ever, the merchant was drawn in by the promise of commerce, and was looking for new potential wares to add to his inventory...

@wanderlustknightofmagic