Theodas & Wren make a party at the beach

[01:37] Situated on the beach with a red tent tarped over their shoulders is Smurg, who had swished their palm tree rod out into the water. Loudly he could be heard grumbling, seemingly bothered by something or another. Between one of his teeth was noticeably a half-eaten fish of some sort, though it was a bit too 'mushed' to actually be figured out.

"Grah! Smurg fis-..." About to start moaning about something or another, his head suddenly gave a sickening turn alongside their neck cracking. Large red eyes had turned to stare right up to Wren and Theodas.

"Birds." Gravely and deep his voice sounded out, a hand reaching into a nearby sack.

"Why birds watch Smurg!?" Be it that they just got to their cliff spot or not, both of them had caught the Ogres eyes, and with it? The problems that came alongside it, which in this case...Was him suddenly chucking a whole handful of fish at the two of them like some sort of fleshy catapult.

"Me no like watch! Raaa!"
(Smurg)
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[01:42] Correction, she was not any better at this than she was last time!

Because as aware as she was of Smurg's previous outbursts, those flung fish are sent plummeting at speeds that surprise even herself! All she can do is lift her arms just to guard herself from the horrible, fishy onslaught.

"Yes, yes- I remember this song and dance quite well from a couple years back..." Wren murmurs, her arms lowering ever so slightly. "I promise we're not here to watch you, we're simply-... Looking for somebody."

Or someone, perhaps.

Hazy eyes fall to the sandy shore, each and every signature given a lookover. Odd, seeing as though there were several familiar ones amongst the group. That made matters quite difficult for her!

"I see some things never change around here, however..."
(Wren)
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[01:44] Julian stared serenely out into the ocean in a meditative trance.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[01:45] Nill had recently emerged himself, having prepared some food. As was custom for those out fishing on the beach. Well, those that belonged there that is.

He didn't know about why Julian was there.

More odd humans at their beach.

But instead... He just joinned Smurg in what is the customary Shadowmire past time.
(Nill)
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[01:45] Nill says, "So many of you..."
[01:45] Xian sits on Nill's shoulder, not engaging in the pastime at this moment. Merely enjoying the beach.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[01:46] Hank lies dormant in the sands of the shore.
(Reed 'Hank' Waterford)
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[01:47] {Item} You picked up Ghost Fish. Dropped by Kalia..
[01:50] Birds- No, he wasn't one, surprisingly! Theodas avoids the fish thrown in his direction with a crouch, and truthfully, he even pockets some of these. It wasn't his problem if the ogre was quite literally giving him free money.

"That's-- That's the ogre that threw fish at you?" Which meant that the attack was likely not too far from there. Truth be told, Theodas expected to have found them in the shadowmire, deeper inside so, instead of... A beach.

Which meant that his expeditions to it were not giving him any result simply because they were never meant to be so. Still, his eyes eventually scan the surrounding people, including the janitor from the school, before falling on... Nill.

Who had just recently emerged himself. "That is him." He spoke through gritted teeth, before properly jumping down the cliff! "You!" One hand pointed at the mutant. "What is your name?"
(Theodas)
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[01:56] Words entered one ear of Smurg, then out the other. Just like usual the Ogre was not one to listening to those he did not recognize. In fact, they were barely coping with Kalia and Julian, if only for the fact the two of them weren't much of talkers on his beach.

Only fishers.

"Nyehehe, me no care what dumb birds say." Crudely a laugh sounded out, as he saw Wren get fish-slapped by quite a few of the fish he had thrown. However, the moment they didn't see Theodas get hit was the moment his mood only fell.

"Bird down, or Smurgle make into gurgle." Briefly he looked at the antlered man, only to look up at Wren and give a simple threat.

Get off the cliff or be forced off, it was simple.

Whatever Theodas was talking with Nill about wasn't his business, after all, he was already off the cliff.
(Smurg)
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[01:57] Kalia takes a drag from her cigarette as she lowers her head to let Smurg do... Smurg things.
(Kalia)
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[01:57] Julian lights the cigarette extra nice for the dog girl.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[02:04] Was someone speaking angrily at him? He slowly moved his gaze to meet the two on the cliff. One of them somewhat familiar. But it didn't stir up more emotion.

Just a flat expression on his face as he studied the duo, and the one angrily yelling with their finger raised.

"Yes? What is it?" He asked somewhat flatly.

Was it another one seeking revenge for an incident that was near two years old?
(Nill)
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[02:05] Xian looked over to the man who was now at their beach, and demanding things of one of her kin. Ones like Julian were accepted simply by virtue of being polite and respectful to the monsters during their fishing time. But demands and threats? Well. That was hardly something she was willing to let rest.

Staring at the boy and then briefly to Nill she took flight again, fluttering near Nill.

"Bold, so very bold. Are you certain that's the tone you'd like to adopt on our beach?"
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[02:08] Quick to the point as ever, Theodas was...

And with Smurg's threat having been presumably sent her way, Wren hunkers down, if only to give herself a better feel for the cliff's edge. "Fish and rocks," she corrects. "But nothing that didn't result in just a few minor bruises." And with as much carefulness as she could muster, Wren takes a leap of absolute blind faith.

Where she lands is either atop the sand or atop of Theodas's head- and fortunately for Theodas and herself? She lands beside him with an outwards force of mana to break her fall. A close call, considered she would've been otherwise skewered upon his antlers.

"I'm surprised you're so nonchalant after what happened that day. Don't you remember?" She asks, faded eyes finally honing in on Nill. His voice wasn't anywhere near as raspy as it'd been that day, and had she not recognized that signature of his?

She'd likely have never even knew it was him.

"And apologies," her attention shifts to Xian, "but the one I'd like to speak to is that one there." Nill, of course.

"I have something I'd like to return."
(Wren)
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[02:09] Broken from his meditative trance by the sounds of hostile tones, the Archsanitarian would turn his head to look at the two students who had wandered into the Mire's territory.

"Hmm..." Julian wracked his mind for the names of either of the students but came up embarrassingly short. He'd worked at the academy for nearly five fucking years and he still didn't remember everyone's name. Whatever.

He would clear his throat with an abrupt "Ahem." as he kept his gaze focused on the pair. Though he soon cut his dialogue short as he noticed the girl change the conversation's tone.

This was interesting, not many students chose to not antagonize the Mire's denizens, especially on repeat interactions.

He would remain watching from the sidelines, prepared to serve as an arbitrator if the need arised.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[02:09] Kalia barks. Because why not.
(Kalia)
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[02:10] Julian would stare at the retarded dog for a moment.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[02:17] Abruptly the Ogre stood up from their sitting position, fully giving berth to exactly how big he was. The 'tent' that had draped over his body fell, noticeably not even able to act as a cape when he was fully standing.

"Grah." Annoyed they growled, hamfists clenching with a distinctly audible squeeze. The power within the beasts hands and arms definitely fit his size, "Small fire, make smoke."

Getting distracted briefly the ogre gave a stomp, bringing himself a bit into the water before just kicking a full wave of water towards Julian, and Kalia since they were standing next to him.

More then likely Smurg was just trying to make steam from the flaming archsanitarian.

"Nyehehe...Smurg get fish." With Wren having landed onto the sandy beach, the Ogre wasn't giving any immediate 'care' in their direction, as his instructions had all been followed.

Instead the beast tromped his way to where Wrenhad fallen and slapped a hand over the cliffs edge. With that one slap, the fish that had piled up were turned into mush and then scooped into a pile that was directly dragged into his mouth, rocks, fish, dirt, and all others.

"Mmm."
(Smurg)
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[02:18] Smurg tries to make some steam by kicking a ton of water at Julian, and also a bit at Kalia because why not.
(Smurg)
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[02:18] wait untill i have 300 agility you dumb giant
(Kalia)
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[02:18] Julian just kind of stands there and lets the water turn into steam.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[02:19] Kalia is now a wet dog.
(Kalia)
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[02:19] Smurg says, "Nyehehe."
[02:19] Julian Sodynym says, "Reminds me of the bathhouse up at Ryukyu."
[02:19] Kalia says, "Piss off, mate."
[02:19] The Teraphim was, however, obviously rude. He had a thing that he wanted, and the other people in the path were just ones that truthfully he did not care about. He was in there for a reason, after all, but at least this place was very far from the Shadowmire itself.

At least that put him at ease, even if in the slightest. Jade hues stared over at the other denizens, and first, his answer went to the fae which questioned his attitude. It was received with nothing but a dry, wrought "Yes."

There is yet a glance towards Wren, and his eyes soon settle on the mutant again. "That is all we are here to do. There is something she'd like to return- For closure's sake, and due to the initial rudeness with which he approached her..."

A hand waves to gesture towards Nill, although his voice makes no attempt to disguise any contempt. "Perhaps you may consider others to be easy playthings, but I have an innate sense against that which happens and affects the well-being of someone I care for."

"At least, to the integral level which you attempted to." To him? It was clear that Nill's attempt was to make something worse than what had transpired, regardless of just how true that might be! "Still, I am not without some couth myself. For now? I would gladly try to solve this in conversation, as far as possible."

After all-

He was in what seemed to be a growing numeric disadvantage.
(Theodas)
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[02:19] Julian gives the lanky fucking dog a hug to dry them off.
(Julian Sodynym)
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[02:20] Julian Sodynym says, "I hope this doesn't come off as too creepy."
[02:20] Kalia says, "Stop fuckin' huggin' me 'ya fuckin' fireball."
[02:20] Julian Sodynym says, "I have an ongoing theme of molesting dog people."
[02:20] Julian Sodynym says, "I should talk to a therapist."
[02:20] Kalia says, "........"
[02:31] So many hateful words, coming his way. Especially from one who wasn't there that day. Thank goodness he had a voice still. He listenned, in patience. Arms crossing by force of habit, as he had stood and faced them.

Towards Wren, he would nod his head. "If you wish, you can." That one at least talked with a modicum of respect. And so? They were acknowledged first.

But now to the matter at large. And towards Theodas in particular. "You presume too much. This is all about that incident that happenned awhile ago. Quite awhile ago? At the bridge, if I am correct yes?" A guess given, mostly due to the kitsune.

"Things change vastly with time. As have I." Certainly, he wore long sleeves, gloves on his hands...

And his skin had an unusual paleness to it. "You say I consider you playthings. I honestly don't feel much one way or the other about you. Only in that you're coming here with potentially hostile intention." He continued further, aimming to set his point clearly.

"And I believe we both have nothing to gain from that."
(Nill)
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[02:38] Wren had a lot of questions bubbling up inside that mind of hers. First of all- the custodian's presence was quite a curious one. To be hanging out with monsters of all sorts.

One could only wonder why.

Her gaze flickered, looking again for that faint thrum of Nill's auras, his words having garnered hardly a change in Wren's expression.

"It's been less than two years since you took my voice and scarred me, yet you wish me to believe you're a changed man." Deadpanned, Wren stares.

And it's likely an effective stare at that, given her blind eyes practically burned a hole right through the very mutant's soul.

"Had I believed you had chance of redemption, I wager you wouldn't have attacked me the day I humbly moved out of you and that ogre's way." If he were trying to play some sort of trick on her, it wasn't going to work.

She wouldn't believe it for even a second- that much was abundantly clear.

"Regardless of how much you've changed, the past has not. These have not." With her head tilted upwards, those faint scars would be put on full display. It could've been worse, all things considered, but scars were scars.

And scars were permanent.

"I didn't come here to play judge, jury, nor executioner. But as I said, I am here to return something and I'd humbly appreciate it if you'd give me the chance." From with her kimono's inner pocket, she pulls something free.

The very pipe he'd given her those near two years ago.
(Wren)
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[02:41] Smurg is just doing his stomping about and chewing down the fish and dirt now, seemingly taking a break from fishing to just tower over and watch all the 'smalls' and even the extra small Xian.
(Smurg)
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[02:52] Certainly, that wasn't what he expected. Wren had made her own point, but Theodas had his own- Perhaps it was motivated for different reasons, even if deep down he was just as selfish as others, perhaps even somewhat more. Those jade hues only expected a proper answer in the end, and it seemed he got none.

A sigh allows the Teraphim's posture to unfold, relaxing for but a moment before it assumes its former, altive self. "No." To be honest, it was a word which he had been willing to start this entire conversation with- He was quite bullheaded himself, but this was different.

This was, truthfully, personal. "You do not understand. In the teachings of Aschea, we are to expect balance- And peace with the spirits. How else would we truly learn?" One hand rises up, and he snaps. There is a brief attempt at tugging into the veil that pierces the realms, a flicker in reality, but...

It dies down in just a moment, and clearly leaves him somewhat worse for wear. "What we have to do is not an attack, no-- If that was the intent, we would have begun with that. My bow is still strapped to my back, after all, and I assure you we Teraphim have no technique that requires so."

"Instead, we offer you an honorable way out. You say you have changed- But I remember at our very first interaction, you offered me a fight while I was unaware of what had transpired." Not taking that fight was, perhaps, the reason why he was here. He could have gotten that petty revenge even before knowing of the fact, but he didn't!

"What I demand is only for an opportunity to bring a semblance of balance to this situation. If you wish to talk? Then so be it- If you can talk it out with her, I assure you I will have no qualms with it." A brief nod given. "But just like my nature is that of a child of Aschea, yours is that of..."

His hand rolls in the air.

Learning the names of other species was often void of pleasure, specially when it involved learning specifics with fewer samples. "Whatever you are."
(Theodas)
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[02:59] "Demand...Balance..."

The Fae who had held her tongue chuckled, petals adorning her head swaying in the breeze. Her emerald eyes glowing in the dark of the night.

"It's truly remarkable, the arrogance of people like you. You come here and demand things of us, when we already have so little to give. And then you come screaming about balance, when humans and their ilk have disrupted every balance they've shoved themselves into have they not?

Is not aiding them in itself an affront to balance after they've taken and taken and taken from kinds like ours?

Mother, help me but you're dumb."

Her eyes returned to Nill with a quiet shrug.

"I'd rather tell them to fuck off, but ultimately this is your call Nill. I'll follow your lead."
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[03:09] He honestly didn't expect them to believe him. Why would he? He knew far better of people. "And you haven't in that time?" He questionned back. Unlike Xian's tone, his still remainned the same as when he started.

And Wren's stare didn't bother at all.

The pipe was produced... His token of what lingerring humanity he had, that empathy. "And I am giving you the chance. I said you could earlier as well." It was what he figured she sought to return.

At this point with Theodas's words.

He saw talking to him as pointless. If not for another piece. "You're not the first to have come here with that aim." Balance. This one had a strange sense of it, he far preferred the vision of the other one's views.

Where did that one go? How he wished to talk with them while he held a voice again.

His hand was held forwards, an indication to let Wren know further. Waiting.
(Nill)
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[03:10] While all the talking was happening, the ogre finished off his meal and gave one momentary roar.

"Raaaaagh!" Going by the intensity of their voice, he was becoming more and more annoyed.

"Too much noise, scare fish." Already he could be seen turning away to return to their fishing spot. With how it was, they were annoyed, but not getting truly aggressive. Something that was new to the dull-minded being.

"Annoy Smurg!"
(Smurg)
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[03:18] "You speak quite a bit for someone who wasn't even present that day. Your words are quite ironic, however. If you mean to garner pity from me, then I'm afraid you'll do no such thing. After all, it was this one here who took something from me for a time to use as his own- something I already had so little of." A hand motions towards the mutant in question before Wren's pursed lips finally opened to let out a quiet sigh.

In truth? She should've been more agitated with those scars upon her throat. She should've been more forward. More fierce.

Yet even still she was calm, those somewhat biting words of Xian failing to break any skin. She'd been lied to far too many times already by the very denizens living upon that beach to take anything they said at face value.

"Now. Before Smurg starts to start throwing his fish again, I'd like to see how far I've come." A simplerequest- one likely to end without bloodshed. "I've no desire to see you maimed, either. If you are as changed as you say, then I'll believe it with my own eyes. I've learned action is far more effective than words, after all."

Lifting a hand, Wren motions it towards the cliff and vaguely towards the forest beyond. "If you'd be so willing."
(Wren)
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[03:32] At this point, the Teraphim only gave the fae a cursory glance, followed by a sudden, sharp exhale that almost mimicked a chuckle in a way once they mentioned his arrogance. "They have. That much is true- And do not misunderstand me when I say that I have understood the purpose of the woods." He gestured towards the boats that, apparently, were a gateway to shadowmire proper- Or at least, the way which every single one of them has gained access to this very spot.

"I do not care for the humans and what happens between them, and between you or them. I have grown past that, and my care falls upon a single person." His eyes avert to meet Wren, and even in that situation, he musters a brief smile--

Before his neck snaps back to stare at Xian. "But perhaps you should let me elaborate. You are not a disease upon this land, as many of said humans would preach."

"Shadowmire and its inhabitants, save for those spirits who come here to spread its influence further are but symptoms of a disease- Of a corruption." There is but a slight shake of his head. "Perhaps you think that my interest in this sole case means that I would jump to defend any other, but no."

"I seek to correct a mistake- As I said, to offer an honorable way out, for he still was the one to start an aggression towards her." While Wren seemed to be picking a path of much lesser aggression, the Teraphim knew better than to keep his interests from being laid bare. "And in the future, to cure the disease itself. After that, I can worry about the other, minor plagues humans cause in these lands."

"You are a lifeform much the same as a human would be, regardless of any corruption that ran in you. I told you this last time, haven't I, mutant?" A hand gestured towards Nill. "It makes no difference to me, honestly. You are but spirits within a vessel all the same. Corrupt or not, it is likely you have not chosen so- And as long as you are unwilling to spread it further, then I have no problems if you exist."

Unless they stood in his way to cure aforementioned 'disease', of course! But that went without saying, didn't it?

Still, it seemed that the Teraphim still maintained his arrogant, altive posture all the same- Even when being called out, it did not care for even a second. After all, his will was that of Aschea- And that is all that mattered.
(Theodas)
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[03:41] Wren's response left him uncertain... Something to consider, especially with later plans. Maimed...

"The honest truth is. I can not trust your words, just as much as I know you doubt mine." He couldn't help but see overlap between the two, however unintentional.

"Another has been here over the same reason, with the same request." He added further. "Yet they were not honest in the slightest." It was over the same exact situation, also for that day at the bridge.

"An agreement was established, they broke it, and yet I held my end of the deal. Perhaps that is just the nature of your kind." Gambles were worth nothing, especially when he had nothing to win.

And going off of Wren's word?

That was definitely a gamble.
(Nill)
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[03:44] She nodded and turned back to the pair. The Teraphim's words continued to rankle her so, she did what she did best. Taunt.

"Oh poor us Nill, weakened by such corruption we are truly lucky to have this man so interested in helping us! Maybe with passion such as his we'd turn to the light and leave the Mire entirely, completely forsaking our dear Mother!"

She chuckled, grinning her pointed teeth to the pair.

"For so many reasons I'm afraid I find you and that perspective so utterly contemptible. But you've got your answers. So?

It seems the moral choice is yours. You can lower yourself to the level that you perceive us to be, or you can walk away."

Her legs crossed as she sat back in the air, grinning widely. She would be pleased with either solution.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[03:51] "You could fairly easily do the same to me, could you not? I want you to look around you a moment." A hand shifts, angling towards Smurg, towards Xian, and towards the newly emerged mutant as well. Simply put? Her and Theodas were clearly outnumbered.

"Were I to try to make use of excess force, it'd be quite apparent. I'd be powerless to stop the lot of them from joining you. Theodas as well is only one person." In truth? Were she to try anything funny or to even break that so called deal of his, she'd be the one in for a world of hurt.

"I assure you, I am not suicidal. Though it may look otherwise, seeing as I've stepped foot on this very beach knowing fully well it's home to you and your people..." Some might honestly see that as a dumb move on her part- and honestly? It probably was! But she was, at times, quite stubborn when it came to proving those points of hers. This time was no different.

"I would like to believe you, I assure you, but after what you've done to me, you surely mustn't be surprised that I'd like more than just words as proof." And so? It was for that reason she was offering him that fight.

A harmless one, at that!

"To be quite frank, I feel as if I'm the foolish one, offering to see how far I've come against the very man that stole my voice from me." After all, he could very easily do it again- and permanently, at that! "If I were here to have my revenge, I assure you I would've taken a much, much different approach. I'd have waited for you elsewhere." Away from the confines of the place he called 'home'.
(Wren)
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[04:07] Taunting. It was clear that Theodas came here for a different purpose, and yet, the fae had managed to nearly push him astray. Eyebrows knit together in the slightest, and for a moment, he seems ready to push forth an arrow out of his forearm- If they weren't taking his offer, then he'd have to--

No.

A glance is paid towards Wren, and his posture eases. "They do not accept it through honor, then." It was clear. They were not taking the offer which Wren had so gladly offered them, and they were likely only going to push Theodas further until they could get anything out of him.

Even with the tip of an arrow extending out of his forearm, almost ready to push itself out and into a bow, just in case they suddenly had a change in heart. Aschea knows Nill nearly had one, last time they met.

With that, the Teraphim walked closer to the hill. "If that is so, then we shall meet under much less friendly terms. Hide under whatever faux tauntsyou can manage."

"I do not have to put up with the meager thoughts of others, after all. The spirits taught me how much more valuable my time is." And with that, he prepared to jump uphill, a tap given at Wren's arm to warn her of his choice.

"I do not think he's going to accept anything but your own aggression, dear. Best not to stain your hands - The blood of the unworthy stains the spirit." With that, a two-fingered salute is given to them, and the Teraphim jumps atop the cliff!
(Theodas)
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[04:15] Theodas's words fell upon deaf ears. His intent was on another entirely.

Solely on Wren. His judgement, his mind. He was considerring it. "It is too much a gamble for me currently." He had his own aims as always, and stepped forwards, closer to Wren. "However, I will accept for a later date." He began.

"When that comes? I don't think either of us will know. But. I will make a few demands of my own. Stay true to your word, or your kind's word is forever naught but dust."

A hand reached out, waitting for the pipe Wren sought to return.

"I will give you the opportunity of a purely solo fight, you may bring a friend to meet up with me and my own friends potentially. However..."

He let out a deep breath.

"At that point we both leave them, so there are no outside influences. I will get to truly see if your word holds merit. And you will get to judge mine. Instead of either of us potentially being intimidated to act safely out of cowardice. Does that seem agreeable?"
(Nill)
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[04:16] Another laugh. More human concepts.

"Honor is code for 'rules we try and enforce because we've stomped your kind into the dirt.' You get that don't you? Your kind can afford to create artificial rules and codes of conduct because you can hide behind walls of men. And then you try and give us these rules, as if your kind really follows them when things get hard. Or even when its inconvenient.

So your little moral high ground falters when you weigh the sins of your kinds against mine.

And perhaps do yourself a favor, stop mentioning that bitch Aschea on our land. Mother doesn't appreciate such blasphemy.

But please do come back, we'd be glad to receive you. It's funny, the Teraphim we have no qualms with. We've even give one free passage to come and go as he pleases, as he only wished to observe us.

Isn't your kind even more endangered than my own?"

But Nill gave his conditions with a helpless shrug from Xian.

"Truly you're too kind to them Nill. They won't repay you for such."
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[04:21] There was but two words that caused the Teraphim to stop entirely. He waited, and took a deep breath- Even as Xian nearly talked over Nill, he couldn't hear but those two. Truthfully, Xian had been spending quite a while trying to get a rise out of him, and at this point?

She had managed to.

"You call another being mother. And you dishonor the name of the Blessed Mother on the same sentence." Fingers rolled around that extended, crystalline bone, and he turned around, allowing it to fully prop itself out...
(Theodas)
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[04:21] * You have been awarded 1 Roleplay Points! *
[04:21] ... Shooting that arrow straight at the fairy.
(Theodas)
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[04:22] Vahloren says, "I highly doubt ill need to assist in form, so ill just enjoy the slaughter."
[04:28] Another time, then.

Wren chews on his words for a moment, clearly contemplating them for a time. Another day, then. But for what? To gain some sort of advantage? To bide his time until he had something of interest? It was a gamble, just like he said.

"...I'll accept your terms." She finally speaks. "We'll bring one friend each. Anything more and we'll consider there to be hostilities from the very moment we so much as see one another." That much she wouldn't disagree on.

"From there, we'll part ways and see just how much truth our words have." With fingers tightening around the metal pipe, Wren goes to offer it forward-...

...only to pull her fingers back as Xian's words makes the Kitsune's breath hitch in the back of her throat.

"She shouldn't have said that." And sure enough? It's but a breeze, that arrow. It sails directly past her- right towards the fairy without so much as even a second's falter.

"Theodas!" The Kitsune turns. "She wants that rise out of you and you know it," she bites, brows furrowing up at the Teraphim atop the cliff. "Whether or not you manage to beat her in a show of strength matters not if you play directly into her hand. She's a trickster. It's not worth it."

All fae were, after all.
(Wren)
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[04:28] A blade of wind cut it out of the air as her emerald eyes glowed, staring at Theodas with the same manic grin.

"And you do the same to our Mother, on our own land. I'll be pleased to offer your blood to her foolish man."

With that she zipped up the cliff, a torrent of wind around her, ice spikes caught in its torrent, both protecting her small form in a glimmer of prismatic light, and preparing to launch off in a barrage of crystalline death.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[04:31] In the same breath, a hand lashes out, sending forth a fiery wall in an attempt to block the feisty fae's path. Big flames go whoosh.
(Wren)
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[04:32] The Bloodmistress desires the blood of the blasphemer.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[04:33] Xian darts around the flames with her tiny form.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[04:40] {Won Aggressive RPB against Xian Antirrhinum}
[04:40] ** Theodas has inflicted an injury upon Xian Antirrhinum. ("Temporary Injury", "Temporary Injury", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (2 days)") **
[04:58] The fairy responds in kind, as expected. Truthfully, the Teraphim didn't really know what to expect, but he did have one goal in mind. He was winning this fight, no matter the cost- His arrows went one after the other, occasionally finding their target in the Fairy.

The black cloak of Leonaus was nearly missing its golden lining due to the constant winds clashing against his skin, small flesh wounds carving their way into the otherwise brittle and crystalline Teraphim. It was obvious that while his skin and overall countenance were soft, his skin was made of stone-

Or rather, of jade. It broke in crystalline pieces, but each one of them joined the other for a storm, each arrow making its way and seemingly shortening the space in the world- Diving into the shadows, Theodas continued to assault her, until finally his magic manages to catch up to her.

A flash of light, the Teraphim skips out of reality for a moment, only bright, jade hues staring unstopped at the Fae. And in but a momentary surge, he reappears, a strike of his palm given directly at her back--

'Shooting' her directly against a tree. "Perhaps you ought to consider your words again, scum. The Blessed Mother has me as her personal guardian and voice - Yours is nothing more than a simulacrum of something your minds can't comprehend."

Ever so arrogant. Ever so prideful. And yet, while that strike was aimed directly at her essence, the Teraphim's manipulation of spirits only seemed to grow momentarily, until a symbol in crystal sprouted around her chest.

It was tiny, but it fed on her own mana. And it was... Nothing but the usual symbol that was seen hanging over the Vale, or often brandished by Teraphim. Emerald and Jade, coalesced to form that very symbol. "Perhaps you'll come to learn the consequences of standing against the true nature of this world."

Him, of course.

"And next time I tell you to stop- You do so." Or else- He'd enforce his will through these means.

Certainly, he had some difference from the other Teraphim.
(Theodas)
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[05:02] Thrust against the tree, the mischievousness was gone, a glare of pure hatred staring into his eyes. She trembled as the crystal grew on her, spitting back.

"And there it is. You take this position of moral superiority right up until you're mad. Then we're scum. You don't want us cleansed, you want us dead, stop lying to yourself!"

But the moment she was branded? Well everything changed.

The Fae screamed, ice coating her fingertips, immediately trying to gouge at the crystal growths, ice turning sanguine in a moment as she tried to grip at them in her fury, nothing more than wordless rage coating her being as she fluttered erratically.

She'd never let such blasphemy sit on her flesh unmarred.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[05:06] Try as she might to stop the inevitable, that fairy was swift, leaving Wren sighing beneath her breath as it managed to dart around her flames.

Of course. Things always had to end like this, didn't they?

By time she makes it back up that cliff herself, the underway battle draws nearly to end-- all in time for her to catch those words of hers before the shrill shriek of rage pierced the air.

"...Does she often provoke these sort of reactions out of people?" Wren asks, head canting towards Nill.
(Wren)
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[05:13] Nill rose a hand, hearring Xian's frantic cries, something he wished didn't happen. And instead?

He'd clamp it down on Wren's shoulder, hard if permitted. "It seems, our date. Has been moved up." His words were tense, biting. Finally a different tone in his voice evident.

"Shall we?" A fairly potent undercurrent to the words he spoke.
(Nill)
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[05:17] There were two feelings obviously emanating from him. His lips, tugged into a straight line, exuded an indifference that was already starting to poke its presence otherwise. He was not lying when he said he did not care about their presence- And he truly did not.

They were not Teraphim, after all, and they hadn't earned the rights to become exceptions. And yet, his eyes and the chin ever-so-slightly pushed upwards revealed a contempt for the creature. "Do not attempt to get a rise out of me again, fae."

"You? You're scum. The others? I do not care about them just as much." A free hand moved, pulled towards him.

His crystalline growth continued to spew out, pulled by the Teraphim himself. Clearly, he stopped for a moment, but emitted a single word to properly announce his intent.

"Stay." And with that, he turned his attention to see if he and Wren could make for a peaceful exit- But it seemed not. That bow was quickly readied, waiting to see if any of the others would try to stop the results of their fight as well.
(Theodas)
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[05:18] Instantly did her eyes snap to the hand that clamped upon her shoulder, that vice grip threatening enough to let a gentle heat smolder about her body.

She wasn't about to attack, no, but if he tried to pull any fast punches? It was obvious she was ready to retaliate.

"Do know that I tried to stop it from happening." In her hands, that pipe she still gripped was lifted- only to be instead slipped back away within the confines of her kimono.

He wanted his revenge- and who was she to take away from him the very same thing she wanted?

"You want exactly what I did just moments ago. To deny you the chance would make me a hypocrite." Her gaze narrows, and for a moment, her head tilts to the side- motioning towards the field still scattered with crystals and ice.
(Wren)
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[05:20] Xian was deaf to any of his derision. Her hatred for him had muted everything except the desire to remove the growths, her chest bleeding around them as she continued to pull, dig.

Her form continued its erratic flight. Prayers to Mother Nyx running through her mind as she worked mindlessly at this task.

She would likely need to be stopped before harming herself even further.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[05:32] The still-sandy skeletal visage of 'Hank' had shambled it's way from the shores of the beach after hearing the commotion and awakening from his dormant state. As he approached the scene it appeared as if a fight had taken place, with Xian, the fairy he had often seen with Nill, who was also present.

Along with two outsiders.

Deciding that the priority was the fluttering and erratic Xian, who was damaging herself further, he made his way towards her and attempted to clasp her between his bony hands gently to stop her digging. So much as she didn't put up a fight, anyway.

During this attempt, his gaze turned to Nill, who was already in the middle of combat with one of the outsiders, so Hank figured that during the commotion it may be easier to get Xian out of the area and back to the Mire safely.

He was unsure if Nill would be safe if left alone, so he hesitated to leave. His gaze now shifted to Xian, and his voice entered her mind.

"Fae... Unsure... Help Nill… Or Take You..?"

He seemed to be asking for her guidance on the situation, although he doubted she was in the mind to be making decisions right now.
(Reed 'Hank' Waterford)
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[05:37] True to her word, there's no attempt at Nill's life the moment those sparks fire. Her fire scorches the land, but always misses the mark. She fights to trip him up- to trade blow for a blow, her every strike blunt.

Her fire was no where nearly as hot as it could've burned- and those eyes?

Unlike last time, there was no golden glint. No blessing of her star- and yet? She'd clearly grown! The way she moved was different. She was confident now, and when it came time for that final blow?

She surges forth in a blitz of starlight, her shoulder the first to strike him square in the chest- and once winded? The side of her staff comes crashing into him with the sole purpose of seeing him floored.

Her staff twirls, and with a sudden thrust, it goes straight for the throat-...yet stops just short. "I could kill you if I wanted to," Wren murmurs, clearly winded and out of breath from their little brawl.

"But as I told you? I didn't come here to play the role of judge, jury, or executioner. That hasn't changed- and it won't, for that matter." Her free hand lifts, if only to fish out that pipe from within the confines of her kimono before that spear-like end of her staff is drawn back and away from his throat.

And instead of any further hostilities.

The pipe is extended in an open palm, offered for him to take. She meant all the words she said.
(Wren)
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[05:40] Gripped she squirmed but was prevented from harming herself further, another cry of anguish coming from her. Burns, injuries, all of that she could suffer in silence, but branding her with something directly opposed to their dear Mother?

She couldn't stand it, it drove her beyond even the madness that normally entrenched itself in her being. It seared through her consciousness.

Still those words did manage to penetrate her agony, and the words screaming to remove the crystals from her body.

Her eyes roamed to Nill. It seemed he was fine. But she'd give no commands from the grip, hatred continuing to emanate from her.

Though her arms clearly were still pushing against him, trying to continue her flagellation.
(Xian Antirrhinum)
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[05:46] He was trying to resist it. Trying to hold back, not fall prey to what he desperately wished to. However, that grip he had on Wren's shoulder earlier.

It was a sign of his true feelings there. Damage to a denizen of the mire, is damage to the mire.

And THAT is unacceptable. These two must not return, for whatever purpose. That was why he pushed it forwards, made it now. And he would have to take the gamble.

Since the gamble with Theodas's return was far too great. The occult surged around him as he made his way forwards, onto the battlefield. However, in the end?

His aim, his display?

It'd be a failure. Ending up amongst the grass, as she taunted him above. Unable to move a muscle amongst the flames and cosmic magic. And what could he do? Slowly, he laid there, still... The occult fading, his eyes closed, before finally raising, that look of rage and hatred slowly fading from his face.

And he'd reach forwards taking the pipe finally. Before saying but few words more. "Your friend should never return here." He certainly was in no position to demand it. And with that, battered, but not maimed, he made his way towards his kin, gesturing them back onwards to the beach.
(Nill)
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[05:52] Despite Xian's attempt to continue writhing about, Hank did his best to keep her kept between his hands. As quick as he'd turned to Xian and asked for her guidance, it seemed that as he turned back around Nill had been defeated in battle. Thankfully however, it seemed that he was otherwise fine, since he was making his way towards them.

His gaze turned to Wren and Theodas only briefly, but he chooses not to speak to them telepathically as he often does to those who pass the area. Now is not the time for chatter.

He begins to characteristically shamble his way through the forest and back to the shore so long as he was unhindered, continuing to hold the Fae within his grasp.
(Reed 'Hank' Waterford)
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[05:56] With Reed picking up the fae instead of trying to intervene further upon the fights that had happened, the Teraphim finally lets down his bow. There is a slight regard of those bright emerald hues as Nill mentions he should not come back, if only to properly disregard it in his mind.

"I do what Aschea wants." It is as far of a response as he's getting, with Theodas still holding the high ground for now, the weapon from Lady Elliwyn still held tightly in his hand. "Nin avánië."

A more typical teraphim leave, as he waited for Wren to join him on the way back to their home.

It had gone out of control, but...

... Did it matter, now?
(Theodas)
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[06:04] Dealing with the occult was an awfully finnicky thing. At any second, Nill could have snapped. He could've tried to hurt her, if he so dared. But throughout all of that? Wren had endured little to no harm.

He'd kept his word, just as she kept hers.

So when he moves to finally make his way back to the others? She lets him, having absolutely no intentions of stopping him or anyone else that chose to watch.

"It's best that you don't, Theodas." She replies upon hearing his words. Cocky as he were, she'd be certain to have a fair few choice words with him the moment they returned home. But for now?

She offers a sideways glance towards the direction Nill went.

"Whatever you had in that pipe is still there, for what it's worth. I never smoked and I didn't plan on it, so-..." He'd have all the reed in the world to himself, if that's what he'dput in there.

"You'd make more use of it than me." With that being said? She turned, doing well to make sure Theodas was ushered off and ready to head back home. He and Xian mixed like oil and water and she for one preferred they parted ways sooner rather than later.

"We've no reason to be here any longer- nor any reason to return. Let's go."
(Wren)
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[06:04] Casually watching the situation in front of him unfold, he somewhat gets a chance to watch the two young people he met few days ago in action. He was simply observing and wasn't trying to interfere under no circumstances.

This was their problem, he wanted to see how they handled themselves against the monsters. He was impressed from what he witnessed from Wren, he probably lost track of some of her attacks but nevertheless, he was surprised by her strength at the end of the day.

He rarely applauded someone but just for this situation only, he would clap slowly.

"Esshar sure got some interesting people if you ask me" The Rhoynish muttered to himself while watching from the tall tree in front of him. He half way attempted to blend in with the trees which wasn't good cover at all but he made it work.

He wondered what made the duo to come over to this side of Esshar, there must've been a hint in their previous conversation about thisbut he couldn't remember at this point.

He sighed deeply, one thing he hate about mysterious life forms is that they possibly feed on peoples souls. He shook his head slowly but he understood if the creatures took that route.

He pocketed his hands, still watching Wrin fight until she defeated Nill. He weakly smirked but was proud with Wren for what he had witnessed.

He eyeballs the mysterious life forms he currently cannot make it from observing from the tree. He yawned, he covered his mouth with his hand that he quickly removed from his pocket just to cover his mouth with it.

(Halvard)
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