[User]
*She caught up to him relatively quickly, her jog slowing into a walk as she matched his pace. She crossed her arms behind her back, no purple umbrella in sight. She was exhausted the night previous given her episode, she didn't have the chance to look up at the night sky until now. Truth be told, she felt almost like a prisoner with the Pig and Wolf sometimes. If she had just left her room without saying something, they'd probably hunt her down. At least that's what The Wolf said before.*

"You're probably right, but I've always been nocturnal. I counted 5 moons, including this one since I've met you in the forest. Not nearly enough time for me to switch over."

*Tilting her head back as walked with Terrel, her sights set on observing the crescent moon high above their heads. Sometimes, if the moonlight hit her eyes just right, the normal brown hue came off as bright red, another tell of her vampirism though less likely to be spotted. She wanted to promise that she wouldn't start any problems while she snuck out with him but she slowly began to realize she just couldn't hang onto that idea.*
"I was going to ask what you were doing but.." *She turned her focus from the moon down to the wolves in front of her, a smile forming on her lips.*
"Even I can tell they're hyper without needing to ask."

[Assistant]
*Terrell would turn around to continue walking as she came to move in pace with him. His gaze was mostly fixated on the wolves running off ahead of them. Occasionally, one would take a moment to sniff around a building or roll around in the dirt, only to rejoin the group and continue exploring as more of a pack.*

"Even wolves need to be taken out to handle their business."*He would say in response to Manon's notice of what he came outside for. Even with it dark out, Floor was easy to spot among the two other wolves, his pure white fur gently brushing against Blur's more silvery Grey one as she kept closer to him for company. Angel walked on close by, the Wolf's bulkiness becoming more apparent the more he grew. He was hardly much smaller than Floor now and, at this rate, it seemed like he'd questionably be able to outgrow him.

Terrell himself wasn't completely sure why Manon found need to follow him out here unless it was for something. After the events yesterday in having to deal with both a lost vampire and run away horse, it had been advised to just say nothing to them. At this point, that seemed like it was going to be the whole journey, though just as he had forced Manon into speaking, she now forced him.*"I don't believe staying up all day and night helps with that."*He'd eventually say in turn about her not being able to shift away from staying up late. The Elf doubted she wanted his two cents, but in his eyes, it seemed like an obvious solution, one he couldn't bother to solve with all Manon's other issues piled on top of it. She was already counting 'Moons' which was either what someone did when they're awaiting an event coming up or when they were trapped with nothing better to do.*

[User]
*There wasn't much she could say about his advice. He was correct that staying up all night wasn't the answer but it wasn't like she was doing a great job forcing herself to sleep. It was nice walking around at night though, she couldn't see the city very well when she tagged along with Okami. The sunlight always felt unusually bright when it came to her, windows of shops usually reflected the light back into her face during her morning walk with The Wolf. Now things were fully visible for her, She never really found herself to be a city girl but Esvoduko was beautiful to behold. She would even contemplate living here if it weren't for her vampirism.*

"Have you ever thought of settling down somewhere? Maybe in a city much like this one?"

 *She found herself asking The Pig, her mind still fixed on what the city life would be like for someone like her. Maybe she'd even be the doctor she dreamed of since she was little. Fixing up wounds from the hunters much like the wounds Okami had before they took off for travel. Giving the children Echinacea root during the winters to help with their colds. The elderly.. There was never an easy way to go about the elders. When it was time, it was time. At least that what she picked up on when she visited other doctors when delivering herbs to them.*

"I think about it all the time." *She said softly, not really giving him a chance to answer.* "The what if's, I suppose."

[Assistant]
*Terrell would walk in silence as she asked him the question, pondering over it a bit as they'd make their way out to the edge of town where the more mountainous terrain seemed less distant. Was he thinking about settling down? Well maybe for a little while, but he had a lot more training and adventuring to do before that point. At the very least Elves lived long lives, so he had plenty of time before he fully committed to putting away his sword for a while. After all, it had only been a few years since setting out. Surely he wasn't much closer to stopping than he was before. If he did settle down, however-?

It would be a lie to say he hadn't thought of it at least once, maybe just getting a house at some point so he had a place for his wolves to roam. In the city though, the Elf couldn't imagine that. He preferred seclusion at times in the company of his wolves when people became too much to bear. Before he could respond, Manon would soon answer her own question, leaving him to continue on in silence for a while.

He didn't have much to say about the Vampires thinking about settling down. Frankly, if she had wanted to leave and go back now, he wouldn't have will to stop her. The Elf was too used to people coming and going after all. That was the way with traveling, especially with those who tend to not get along. At first, he didn't say anything, just letting Manon talk to herself in her own thoughts of what could be. As the wolves would trail away once more, he'd eventually say:*"I've never been much of a city Elf..."*His words would come low and relatively strange off the tongue in him referring to himself as an Elf rather than a Pig.*"The extra crowds is not always what it's cracked up to be."

[User]
*Manon tapped a finger against her lips as she though. Was she even afraid of people naturally or because of what they do to vampires? It probably started off because of her bloodcurse but now.. Isolation has grown to be apart of her now, even if she became cured. The city always had more people living inside them, more people who could benefit from her healing and knowledge of medicinal plants. A memory came back to Manon, when she was younger she wanted to be the one to cure all the plagues in her home city, Ulnoor. She had forgotten about that dream of hers, she used to run home after school and brag every time she scored top of her class in faith magic. "I'm going to save everyone!" Manon often told her parents.*

*Her smile slowly subsided, curling into a frown as it seemed like an impossible feat for her now. Nearly 10 years later, 6 of those being a vampire, and she spent her time digging in the dirt for pocket change. Granted she hardly accepted the coin as the gratitude was enough on it's own. Tilting her head to the side as she glanced at Terrel, absorbing the sight of his mask all the way down to his weapon of choice. Sheesh, what a crew they were.*

"Maybe when we're both old... Or when you're old-" *Forgetting that Vampires never look their true age, cursed with immortality or something close to it.* "We could visit each other, share adventures stories. I think I'd like that a lot."

[Assistant]
*Terrell would glance over at Manon, unsure of what he found more confusing, the fact that she'd actually want to visit after everything that's happened or the fact that she'd think he'd get old. The latter he found more amusing of course as at some point, he was sure he'd forget just how old he was. Well if didn't get killed in that time, but he had already made a promise to someone that that would never happen. Cockiness? Maybe. The Elf had that much confidence in himself at least.

He'd open his mouth to say something, soon closing it once more as he fell into silence. That would never happen. Besides, the moment she paid back her debt, she'd be gone again anyway and, with it, the chances of them seeing each other again seemed slim. The Pig Elf was always roaming and if he did settle down, he doubted getting many visitors in a secluded place.*

"I don't think two cranky old Elves meeting would be the best idea."*He'd joke at the thought, knowing full well how they 'got along' already. In saying it, however, there was some realization in his own youth.*"I'm sure Okapi would like it though."*He'd say in a lower tone, deciding not to completely scratch away at the High Elf's dreams. If she really wanted to visit somebody, she'd find a way to, just as Terrell would to the allies he had met.*

[User]
"Maybe you'll get less cranky as you grow old, maybe I'll find a way to not be hungry all the time. This is the longest I've gone without feeding though, it hurts knowing blood from a person is much better."

 *She neglected to talk about how they tasted much better as well. Feeding from animals always scratched the surface of her urge. When she consumed Okami's blood, it removed her urge entirely. She was happy that he had survived, not entirely sure how though. The who situation was a blank spot in her mind. Idly Manon extended her hand by her side, her palm facing the ground. The grass stood up on end as she walked past just for the blades of greenery to fall limp once she passed. Almost like a wave of water but with thin pieces of grass. Nature always had certain feel to it for Manon, this felt very similar to brushing the fur of an animal. The feeling of soft tingles brushing through her finger tips. Nature magic always felt soothing to wield.*

"I don't know if I would visit Okami. He's been very nice to me but..." *Her voice lowered into a whisper, almost as if Okami was there in spirit.* "He seems a little too optimistic using blood in his meals for me. I've never heard of a salad with blood.."

[Assistant]
*Terrell would continue walking on as the dry dirt would transform completely into pure rock, retracing his steps towards the forest they were in earlier to allow the wolves to roam somewhere more natural to them.*"Maybe you will too."*He'd jab back more humorously soon falling silent once more to allow Manon to say what she needed to. Soon enough it drifted to her speaking of her problem with blood, which oddly enough he had almost forgotten about with a whole day of it not being brought up.

Only when she mentioned Okapi talking about preparing meals with blood in them, would find himself having to hold back laughter at the ridiculousness of it. It seemed the Kemonomimi had reduced down to putting blood in his foods to get either one of them to eat his meals. Terrell wasn't sure whether to find it funny or just sad thinking about it.*"That was his solution to it?"*He'd question almost hysterically. Terrell did suppose he'd suggested for them to figure out a way to fix the issue rather than using Subaru as a walking food source. This was not what he had in mind, and now, he suddenly wasn't sure what either of them were thinking at this point.*

[User]
"Well he certainly proposed ideas about it like; Maybe we should make you a salad with blood dressing. Maybe we should try cooking the blood. I've only had blood a handful of ways. I've tried feeding off animals that were hunted by other predators. It made me sick to my stomach, I hardly made it two steps. It tasted horrible as it was like stale and cold. Trust me, I've tried escaping the cycle. It has to be fresh. The other two ways you know about, from animal and from a person. The only suggestion that I sort of like that Okami made was having me feed off the animals he intended to cook for himself. Even then, I don't like the idea of killing animals. If he's going to execute them regardless, I might as well, right?"

*She looked at Terrel almost for his approval of the situation. It wasn't much different than when they were looking for a butcher. The animal was already dead, it's time deceased would be questionable from a vendor. From Okami, it would be pretty fresh for her to drink. As she approached the forest, the forest compensated for her travels. Splitting plants in her vicinity to allow easier travel. She noticed that Terrel didn't have it as easy as she did, thinking back on their other encounters and how he always had to fight his way through. This time she consciously tapped into her magic and did her best to ease his travels as well. Surprisingly this wasn't easy for her to do, putting conscious thought into something she always did subconsciously.*

"I don't think his ideas would work, It'd look a little suspicious if he intentionally bled all over my food. Could you imagine what others would think? A shirtless male with a wolf mask leaning over a table to bleed over some girl's meal? Not even to mention the girl eating it shortly after?"
*Now that she said it out loud, she convinced herself to never try Kiba's ideas on 'bloody food.'*

[Assistant]
*Terrell would come to a sudden stop as Manon rambled on and on about Subaru's ideas, each one sounding worse than the last to the point where he'd simply put his hand on her shoulder and stare down at her with a purely neutral look.*"Want my advice? If the man says he's going to go jump off a cliff, just let him do it and don't follow."*What that had to do with Manon's issues with Okapi trying to come up with different foods, it was anyone's guess. Okapi was always bringing up random sayings. Terrell clearly shouldn't bring up any sayings.

He'd move his hand away, resuming his walk as the wolf pups would begin to spread out further into the forest and out of his view. Terrell didn't seem too concerned about them getting lost. After all, he had his whistle still. Finally, he'd stop walking for a while, allowing himself a short break while he waited for the wolves to return.

Terrell would let out a tired exhalation in exasperation, finally looking back at Manon as he'd rub a hand at the back of his neck.*"I'm assuming you don't want to try it then?"*He'd eventually ask her in all seriousness. The Elf wasn't sure if it was the blood that concerned her more or the image of her taking it from Subaru anytime they tried to eat. It was a ludicrous thought in his mind, but sooner or later, she was going to have to figure out some solution with her issues or just return to the forest and forever feed off animals.*

[User]
*She stopped as she felt Terrel grab onto her shoulder, her head turning to face him as he spoke. It was clear that she had no idea where that came from or what it had to do with anything. Even after Terrel had became walking, Manon just stood there as she parsed the information. She had no idea Okami wanted to jump off a cliff, or why he wanted to.*

*It was enough to make her forget about the food conversation as she slowly caught up to Terrel, a grim look upon her face. Thankfully her expression changed when Terrel asked his next question, brining her back to the original conversation. She'd have to speak to Okami about it tomorrow.*

"Hmm, Oh right! I don't know. He wants to fill a cup with his blood so I can drink from it but that sounds awkward to me too. I've always just.. Bit? It's not like I want to bite him either, that wouldn't be very nice." *Trying to clear her name of any potential misconceptions.*
"I'll give some of his recommendations a try."
 *Now that they had stopped she checked her surroundings, maybe there was something here that was interest to Terrel.*
"Cozy little area." *She said softly.*

[Assistant]
*Terrell would look over to her, muttering to himself:*"Tell him not to do something, and he does it anyway."*The Elf supposed he wouldn't expect anything different from the reckless Kemonomimi. Instead, he would simply let out a quiet sigh and decide to find a place near a tree where he could sit by.*"Whatever you think will work."*He'd finally say to her, coming to sit down against the tree and lean back on it. So long as it wasn't his issue to deal with, they could experiment all they want. It was only for the trips anyway.

At the mention of the area being cozy, he'd say back:*"Don't get too comfortable unless you plan on staying out here."*Maybe it was a threat, maybe it was a suggestion, maybe it was him simply talking. However, she'd take it, Terrell would allow himself the time to relax for now anyway before they'd have to make their way back to town and start a whole other day of traveling. He wouldn't say he didn't enjoy it, but it did get exhausting at times just riding horseback and walking. At least now with the new steed, it should speed things up a bit so that he could get what he needed to get done in Albania.*

[User]
"I'd rather be back in the magical Ombu forests, I'd probably get hunted out here."
*She always worried about something happening that caused aggression towards her. There had been plenty of times where someone died and had bite marks on their neck. The local doctors always threw Manon under the bus, even if they knew she was being helpful. Nobody gave the benefit of the doubt when it came to her. It happened a handful of times before she reached the expansive forests and from then on she simply remained. Occasionally entering Tunuar or Suimer for supplies such as clothing, or to deposit medicine.*

*She held her hand over the stone underneath her, palm facing towards the rock. Most people would have found their third affinity for magic. Manon found her first two rather quickly, both expressed themselves in a similar way. When she was little she pressed her palm against a scrape she obtained from falling while playing. She cried and cried until an adult came but when she moved her hand there wasn't any wound to be seen. At first they scolded her, said "You're crying wolf" Until they learned it was Faith magic. Oh how her parents celebrated that night, a healer in the family. Nature started off the same way, holding her hand over a wilting flower and watched it return back to it's former beauty. The stone beneath her remained as unyielding as ever, not even a pebble moved.*

"Your wolves are having the time of their lives." *She said without lifting her head, maybe if she kept trying to move rock something would happen. She was keeping tabs on the three using her nature magic. So far there were only five signs of movement. The imprint she left on the world, Terrel, and 12 paws.*

[Assistant]
"Nothing stopping you."*Terrell would say casually as she mentioned preferring to head back to OMB. He'd allow himself to lower a bit more onto the ground, until he had found himself laying flat on his back, staring up at the sky. His hair sat messily beneath him, spread out as if they were a bright pink blanket. It was times like this where his pointed ears were able to be seen more clearly, no longer obscured from view with the mess of his hair.

Hearing Manon mention his wolves having a good time, he'd respond back:*"I figured they'd enjoy themselves out here."*It didn't seem like he questioned her ability to read the wolves when they weren't even here, having grown used to her tales of being able to hear animals. At this point, added range didn't sound as crazy anymore.*

"You know Manon..."*He would begin, keeping his gaze focused on the sky.*"Thinking back to all the travelers and healers I've met on the road. You... Are by far the worst of them."*The Elf would suddenly break off into a light chuckle. Thinking back to his old friends he's met while traveling, there were never so bad in his eyes. Sure they were strange in ways, but that was just them. Terrell supposed he was strange to some as well.*"You stick around a lot more than them too though."*He'd add more thoughtfully as if thinking aloud.*"No matter how upset you get with us..."*The Elf would trail off.*

[User]
*Manon didn't say anything for a long time, she could feel her eyes water at his hurtful words. It's not like the group had sustained any injuries that required healing outside of the two. Both of which she healed with ease as well. She had been called a horrible healer before, those were by people she never met before. They had all assumed that she wasn't very good at it because she was a Vampire, always giving into her temptations or other rumors that had no base of truth. Hearing it come from someone she spent days with. She felt her chest hurt, a sinking feeling in her chest. She didn't know if she wanted to sob, to yell. She didn't know if she wanted to run or fight, she more alone with him than the forest she followed him to. She decided that she would uphold her end of the deal, to repay him for his work in the Ombu Forest. After... She didn't know.*

*All the grass around Manon began to turn brown, not so much withered but dead and dry. The type of grass you would see in a forest fire more than poor weather conditions. They even gave off the scent of burning grass though the fire itself was absent. Her head looked around, more confused than anything at where the smell of a campfire was coming from. She hadn't sensed anyone in a fair distance around them, they should be alone.*

[Assistant]
*Terrell's nose would twitch a bit, at first catching a whiff of the odd smell in the air. At first, he'd shrug it off, figuring it was just like any other smell they came across in the woods. However, as it began to grow stronger, soon shifting to the smell of burning grass. He'd lift his head up, half expecting to see a forest fire, though upon not seeing anything from the position he was in, he would soon sit back up. At first his mind would drift to the wolf pups, glancing around a bit in knowing that they could have trailed further off. The scent could probably keep them at bay for a while if it was something bad, though he preferred them in view.

His gaze would shift over to Manon, soon gazing down towards the grass as it would start dying around her. It took him a moment to consider it. Was that where the burning smell was coming from? He'd slowly look up towards the Elf, seeing her just as confused.*"Manon?"*He'd question somewhat cautiously, shifting his gaze between her and the dying grass. Magic was such a finicky thing it seemed with her and soon enough Terrell would soon find himself standing back up in the even that the dying grass continued to spread.*

[User]
*She looked towards Terrel when he said her name. She expected more cruel words to flow from his mouth, maybe he thought she was just a freak like everyone to him as well. A pair of glowing red eyes looked down at Terrel, it was mostly a play of the moonlight and the fact that she was standing and he was not. It seemed to be enough to snap her out of current emotional turmoil though. Not only did the dried out half burning grass stop it's crawl outwards. It even began returning to it's natural state. This wouldn't be possible with nature magic alone but in combination with her faith magic she gave it life anew. It wasn't a very quick process, the spread of destruction was much faster than the slow rebirth. Granted with her mind pre-occupied with the conversation at hand she didn't pay attention to her feet, just on Terrel and the smell of burning grass.*

"I thought you were finished there, Do you have more hurtful words for me?" *She said, not so much in a cold voice, but with a wounded one. The sound of stifled tears could be heard in her wavered voice.* "Just tell me if you want me to leave, I get it." *Thought she didn't move, she wanted to stay with them for a while more. It was the most alone and the least alone she had felt in the six years of being a vampire.*

[Assistant]
*Terrell would look at her in confusion, not really sure on what was said to suddenly get her like this, especially with jumping to random statements. 'He tells me not to do something and I do it anyway...' Terrell would think to himself, recalling Okapi suggesting that he simply stopped talking to her. Now he was just a hypocrite with what he uttered about Okapi earlier.

Seeing the grass slowly returning to its normal state, Terrell figured whatever had caused her to initially react must have faded despite her words saying otherwise. She was so back and forth that even the grass seemed to show it.*

"Manon, you're going to have to catch me up here."*He'd say in his usual low tone.*"Between whatever it was I said and the grass suddenly dying, I have no idea what's wrong."*Terrell considered telling her to calm down. Then again, that had never worked before, in fact seemingly made things worse. He wondered if it was too late to take Okapi's advice now, every word seemingly a minefield around the Vampires.*

[User]
*She looked down at her feet to see the grass being perfectly fine. She even went as far as to give Terrel a confused look at as well. What would she know about burning grass, she was looking for the source of it as well. She took a few steps away so she could better see the moon before speaking. Almost as if just looking at it was soothing in a way for her.*

"You and Okami both brought up how horrible of a healer I am. I feel like I'm just kidding myself at this point. Healing is the only thing that keeps me going, The only part of me I'm proud of anymore. What's the point if nobody else can see it though?"
*She pulled herself away from the moon to rejoin Terrel, this time she took a spot on the ground as well as she laid on her back. Her short black hair did not pool much like his.*
"As for burning grass, I don't see anything or know what you're talking about. Someone must have a campfire much further in, the wind probably blew it our direction."

[Assistant]
*Terrell would look at her dubiously, knowing full well the story of a campfire was far from true. Was she simply playing naive or did she actually not notice it? He wasn't too sure. His gaze would follow her as she'd walk over to him and lay back down, the Elf not feeling much in the mood to go back to relaxing after that. She mentioned the two of them calling her a bad healer which part of him found surprise in it. Was that really what she got so upset about?*

"Manon."*He'd begin, sounding exasperated before he'd catch himself and would begin speaking more in his normal monotone voice.*"I don't know what Okapi said about you, but what I said was a *Joke*."*The Elf looked down at her, the outline of his pig mask resting in the center of the moon as a darkened shadow against it.*"If a healer knows how to heal then they've done their job right and whatever else there may be to them, that's none of my business."


[User] "Tavern."*He'd say back bluntly, coming to a stop by a split in the pathway before eventually deciding in heading in one direction to find the tavern.*"We'll get something to eat from there then stay for the night before setting off again. Should hopefully be making good progress in getting across this country if we keep moving each day."

[Assistant] "Ah, so Tavern hunting?" *He asks whilst whipping up a small plan to... Satisfy some urges during the night, hopefully nobody would notice as his mouth twitched upwards slightly at the idea that his plan would come to fruition, and he'll be off scot-free, he can't wait.*

[User] "Shouldn't be too hard to find one."*He'd say more casually. As they'd pass by a small stable, Terrel would find his gaze wandering towards it briefly. They could have probably gotten much further on horseback, but with Carl back at home they were more likely going to end up borrowing some or just purchasing some more.*"You wouldn't happen to know how to ride a horse would you?"*He'd ask Xylon, part of him figuring he'd already know the answer.*

[Assistant] ". Uh... No, I haven't ridden a horse before" *He said smiling sheepishly, he had never ridden a horse before, he attempted to, but his parents didn't think it was safe for him so he went through life without trying such a thing, he was curious though can't be that hard right?.*

[User] "Do you want to?"*He'd ask him, turning his head away from the stable as they passed it, the tavern soon coming into view as they'd round another building. Maybe grabbing some more horses won't be the worst idea. At least if they get to Chu faster, they'd have more time to rest before officially setting off into the desert.*

[Assistant] "Yes-" *He answered almost too quickly, he'll have a means to get around quicker! Besides, it'll be an experience just like this journey he's on, the tavern closed in and Nylon opened the door for Terrell.*

[User] *He'd let out a chuckle.*"Alright. Maybe we can get a couple horses from the stable tomorrow and hope you don't get killed in the process of trying to ride them."*Terrel would say as he walked through the door Xylon held open. It seemed the tavern had quite a few patrons, but fortunately enough there were still some places for them to sit as Terrel would scope out a more secluded spot and would head towards it. Taking a seat in the booth, Terrel would lean back against the cushion with a tired sigh. Finally, the first time he could properly sit back since he had left Mentia.*

[Assistant] "I mean I could get trampled" *He suggested sitting opposite of Terrell in their shared booth, he swung his legs back and forth still brewing the plan he'll hatch turning nightfall just hopefully Terrell is a deep sleeper and his feet are still light and soundproof, his stomach growled as he remembered he should've eaten. He fished out the bread Terrell gave him out of his sack and munched on them legs swinging.*

[User] "And I could end up getting kicked. Wouldn't want either one. Horses are timid creatures. Well mine is anyways. You'd need to know to handle them based on their personality. Which I'm not sure what we may be getting from the stables here being this close to the desert."*Terrel would explain, mildly gazing around the tavern while he waited for the waiter to come by.*

[Assistant] "Why would stables be in the hot dessert?" *He inquired, he doesn't know how horses could survive out in the heat, his legs swung as he munched on the bread happily gazing around the tavern as well trying to find entertainment somewhere while he relays his plan and he'd set up the area before he initiates it, just hope Lady Luck is on his side.*


[User]
"By the- That's amazing! Runes, you say? Guess I never looked into it much..."
*She marveled, rubbing her chin as an impressed smile took to her lips. Her guard slowly lowered in this relatively safe place, the exhaustion from her heightened awareness seeped into her bones, visibly deflating as she let out a long, deep sigh.*
"Gods, I hate the cold..."

[Assistant] "I've learned a lot about it in Praia. That and well... This book I got from there. Once you start enchanting, can hardly stop."*He said with a light chuckle. Terrell watched the growing fire for a while, his attention only shifting back to the Kemonomimi as she brought up the cold weather. He had to admit, it did slow up travel a lot, both horseback and what energy they could expend to keep going when the weather wasn't in their best interest. Still though, he tended to prefer the cooler weather if not for the sake of watching from the warmth of the indoors. But he could see that probably wasn't same for his companion. Terrell shifted closer to her, gently pressing up against the Kemonomimi to give off some warmth to her alongside the fire.*"It'll pass soon."*He said.*"If we're lucky, the warmer months will arrive before we get too far north."*Terrell figured with the days that passed, there was only so much time left before the heat returned anyway.*"Until then, maybe I can find something around the house to make traveling a bit easier."

[User]
*Maybe it was the presence of the pack, but Ikehara couldn't help but rub her head against Terrel's shoulder, her ears flattening gently. She had come to rely on the elf, his cool demeanour able to put her at ease even during the worst of times. While she was mostly unflappable, even she had her low points.*
"To think, you were the first person I'd had a decent conversation with after leaving home..."

[Assistant] *Terrell allowed his head to rest atop hers for the time being, unable to stop the smile forming on what could be seen of his face.*"Was I the only person you had conversation with or am I just a good conversationalist?"*He asked her in a joking tone. Terrell allowed himself to go lax with the weight of travel behind them for now. There was always more to do tomorrow, but for now they could enjoy each other's company in a much warmer atmosphere. He rather enjoyed it.*


[User] "Oh ok, are you a light sleeper by any chance?" *He could've said it more subtly but he didn't want to beat around the bush much right now, he needed a clear cut answer and he might as well be blunt besides its not like Terrel knows of his plan or what it is, hopefully he says no and he can start arranging their room accordingly so he'll be swift and have no possible way of getting caught in the night.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would glance at Nylon through narrowed slits, hidden behind his mask.*"Whatever you plan to do, I'll turn the other way for the night."*He'd gradually get up from his seat. That seemed about as much as an answer he was going to get as the Elf would turn away to head towards the bar to purchase a room before soon returning to Nylon.*"Be back before dawn. We ride out in the morning as soon as we can get you situated with a new horse."

[User]
"I'll be quick, you won't even know i left." *He promised, at least he won't have problems with Terrel finding out about his secret plan, though he's still nervous about it.*

*He's been able to work off heists before but this is a new area, he won't know the terrain and doesn't know many hiding spots and quick getaways when things get a little too rough, he'll have to wing it if he wants to satisfy his kleptomanic urges and actually live to tell the tale though he doesn't think he'll be telling anyone about this crimes yet, hopefully he won't end up with a missing leg.*

[Assistant] "Right..."*He'd say skeptically, soon turning away to head up to the room with the expectation of Nylon coming with before he headed out for the night.*"Leave whatever you need in the room. I'll be staying here for the night."*The Elf would say, coming up to the door of the room and opening it up for him.*


[User]
"You got a spare room? What, expecting guests?"
*She chuckled dryly, raising a brow at the mild absurdity of this house. Her eyes wandered around the pack, cycling through their names again, settling on the Chief. You could tell he was their elder, with how he carried himself - despite the visible excitement from reuniting with his old master, it seemed.*
"Not a bad idea. The sun will drop soon, anyway."

[Assistant] "Came with the house."*He said back with a look of amusement. The Sinai gradually got up from where he sat, the wolves idly shuffling around his legs to avoid accidentally getting stepped on. He offered a hand down to her.*"Got to be glad it did. Wouldn't want to be sleeping on the couch, hm?"*He asked. Terrell supposed she made a fair point. There was hardly reason for the extra addition if it were just him and the wolves returning home by the end of the day. He supposed it made it all the more fortunate when guests did come over whenever that may happen. However, he spent so much time traveling, that he hadn't really thought of it much.*

[User]
"Not fussed either way. Glad to sleep in a decent bed, though it's probably dusty... Lead the way, o' head of the pack."
*She took his hand and pulled herself to her feet, laughing as she teased him; avoiding stepping on any tails in the sea of mottled white.*

[Assistant] "Guess the dust beats the snow."*He thought aloud with a grin, leading the way in stepping over the resting wolves. Terrell took a moment to envision the dark house, continuing along a path of familiar layout until he could eventually navigate his way to the stairs. A few of the younger wolves curiously followed after them as he continued along up the narrow stairway until he eventually made his way to the top where a more open area sat. Just beyond it were a few rooms. Two of which to be assumed for guests if not storage, but from the light streaming in through the windows of each, it seemed that were all well furnished enough to have a bed at least. He showed her into one of them, mainly chosen at random, but by any's fortune it seemed to have a nice view of the fenced off land where the horses roamed, continuing onward until only the taiga forest could be seen stretching on for miles.*"I believe this should be suitable for a night, wouldn't you say?"*He jested, deciding to stay by the doorway in allowing her to get settled for the time being.*


[User] *He goes inside and runs towards the nearest bed, putting down his sack and goes through it for a moment and taking out miscellaneous items from inside, when he was satisfied he grabs more bread and just eats.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would head inside more calmly, eventually falling back on the bed and drawing in the comfort from the much softer bedding. For a while, he'd lay like that, dozing in the gradually dying sunlight while his roommate continued preparing for whatever heist he was about to pull.*

[User]
*He eventually finished his snack and prepared himself for the heist, though firstly he put the last loaf he had on Terrel's bedside table before he left the room and started sneaking around the tavern and went out the door into the night.*

*He came back in the room through the window instead of through the tavern and the door to the room, he clutched his prize tightly and puts it in his sack and hid it under his bed praying the owner didn't see him and identified him he crashed into bed and immediately slept once his head hit the comfy pillow, the stress of sneaking about caused him to be terribly exhausted and now it's time to shut off the light.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would open his eyes into narrowed slits as Nylon would walk out the room, staring after him for a while. Eventually, he'd turn away, moving to get more comfortable on his bed for the night as it drew on for a while. Terrell was never sure when the Raccoon came back that night, but as the simple rays of sunlight would fall down on his face, he'd catch sight of Nylon sleeping in bed.*"Time to get up."*He'd say with a yawn, stretching out under the covers before he'd eventually get out of bed.*

[User] "Five more minutes.." *He muttered and mushed his face unto the pillow, he doesn't want to wake up just yet and doesn't have plans to wake up for at least another 5 hours but before he drifted off again he remembered what Terrel told him and jolted awake* "Horse riding lessons let's go-" *He stands with new found energy and is in the process of dragging Terrel towards the door though he's having a little trouble* "Cmon cmon! The faster you wake up the faster we get to our destination."

[Assistant] *Terrell would gradually get up from his bed, going grab his cloak and putting it back on only to find himself being grabbed for an ineffective attempt at getting him to move faster. He'd simply glance back at Nylon, not moving from where he was.*"With energy like that you might not even need a horse."*He'd say in partial tease, finally getting up to head towards the door.*"We still need to grab breakfast before we go."

[User] "What do you think they have for breakfast here?" *He asks whilst fixing his shoe and one leg hopping towards the door sack already obtained, when he got the boot fixed he ran out to the tavern's main area and sat in a booth awaiting his morning meal before they head out further into the desert legs swinging in excitement.*

[Assistant] "Yes I'm sure this place has breakfast."*He'd say in an exasperated tone, giving one final stretch before he'd grab his bag and head out the door. The Elf would make his way down to the main area, taking a seat across from the raccoon before waiting for the waiter to come over and take their orders. Terrell would request a simple platter of pancakes, figuring that it'll hold him over for the rest of the morning. The next city would be quite a bit of walking distance, but at least they could keep near the river for majority of the trek there.*


[User]
Myhan panted as he turned the street leading to the alley, grimacing as he clutched the side of his chest.

Shit, his old wound was acting up. It had slowly gotten better over the years, and somehow finding a sense of purpose with his barony had done wonders for his well being- his spirits felt lighter, his limbs more limber, and even his scarred lung was giving him less trouble then before, but it seems that this particular impromptu foot sprint had agitated it.

At the very least Cuo made it easy with her crude use of mana, or his heart might just have burst from the strain of going on a wild goose chase.

Narrowing his eyes as he scanned the alleyway, he sensed something oddly familiar. Was Cuo here? What shortcut would lead her to here in the first place?

He took a slow step in. And then he felt it.

A dark Miasma expunged from a figure in the middle of an number of supplies laid there. Sowing the winds with a foul taint that might as well have been a hurricane to Myhan's senses. He was not that proficient at detecting magic, really- not like Sirdan, but he was a spiritbinder who knew death magic and the currents of emotion might as well have been a hurricane of turmoil to him.

What was going on?

His brow furrowed further as he took another step. And another.

As his footfall quickly hastened, he opened his mouth.

"Cuo? You there?" He stated, cleanly but with the slightest hint of hesitation.

[Assistant]
*As soon as Mahan opened his mouth, the mage's head turned towards him like a doll in a horror movie. Her usually cheerful eyes were a now almost a pitch black, burning with hate. CUO stood up much more quickly than she's ever moved, and expressed her emotion by gathering it into a sphere of red-hot flames, thrusting it to Mahan and preparing to engulf him with the fury of hell-*

"Oh, Mahan."

*As soon as she realized who it was and what he was carrying though, the flames immediately died out and her expression returned to normal with a sniffle and seemingly tears in the corner of her eyes.*

".... That was mean."

[User]
The old commander felt a old tingle of danger down his spine upon Cuo's initial gaze, and did bend his knees reflexively as Cuo conjured a malicious ball of fire, taken aback but ready to subdue her if needed-

And she saw all the energy leave her being leaving behind a frail, saddened girl underneath those layers of smouldering hate.

Myhan stood there for a moment, watching her wallow in sorrow with not even rats and bugs wanting to keep her company before he sighed, marching over.

She would feel the warmth of a massive palm gently patting her on the back, somehow soothing despite the immense strength clearly contained within it, as the giant crouched low beside her.

"It was." He admitted sincerely and solemnly "I'm sorry."

[Assistant]
*The sniffles soon turn to tears as CUO was patted, the well of emotion overflowing and uncontained. She kept her head down as it eventually turned to sobs as Mahan used his words to comfort her.*

"P-please don't do anything like that again-"

*CUO seemed to be making a fuss over a seemingly small prank; those who were more attentive would then deduce that it probably wasn't the first time she experienced this. Indeed, years ago, she had fallen victim again and again, growing cautious, then letting her guard down to fall victim again.*


[User]
"Yep. We going?"
*The okamimi returned, sitting opposite the doorway with her crossbow. The limb undone, she was tinkering with one of the screws that tightened the mechanism, small flecks of grease on her fingertips. She slowly wound the piece back up, pulling the string taught again and resting it on her hip again, getting up and meeting him by the door.*

[Assistant] "Yeah."*He said at her approach.*"But wanted to show you something first."*The Sinai gave a light tilt of his head before turning off to head back the way he came. At least there wasn't a lot to pack back up with them just arriving so to any's luck, they'd be able to reach the next town by nightfall.*


[User]
Myhan sighed as he continued to pat her back. "I won't." He state simply. He should have known better, really. But realistically speaking, hindsight was 20/20- he knew that she had been ill treated, but he could scarcely predict that such an obvious prank would be taken so poorly. Cuo's naivety and trauma ran deeper than he could have anticipated- there was simply too much about her history that he didn't know.

Well, now he knew. He knew better, he would do better, and he would do her right for this. But first...

"Where's Garuda, anyway?" He murmured, eyeing around her for any sign of a crow.

[Assistant]
*CUO nodded as she wiped away her tears. She knew that Mahan probably didn't mean it; no matter how many times Garuda called him a sweaty elephant, he was a nice sweaty elephant. It was her that was hurt by it. No matter how many times it was done 'in good fun', CUO couldn't help but feel terrible, humiliated and alone every time.*

*Sniffle* "She's here."

*CUO extended her hand, and a magical circle formed on it. Out popped Garuda the raven, who walked over to CUO's shoulder.*

"I dismissed her earlier because I wanted to be alone."

[User]
"I see. Mind if I borrow her for a bit? I've got a quick question."

If she agreed, he would then beckon the crow over by raising his own hand for her to perch on with a jump's distance, before drawing Garuda closer to his face and slightly turning his body away for a touch of privacy.

"...What happened on your end while I was trying to track her, away?" He whispered as he side-eyed Cuo.

[Assistant]
*Garuda would oblige, hopping onto Mahan's finger as it was more than big enough to support her.*

"She ran through a crowd of people, and everyone backed away from her. I tried talking to her, but she told me to shut up, and dismissed my bird form. She didn't listen to me with my mental words either. No matter how much power I have, she *Is* The Spirit binder."

[User] "...That was her reaction to being pranked, huh?" The titan muttered.

[Assistant] G-"I think it's the realization that she had been pranked. I don't think she saw it as a playful thing. Rather, she saw it as being made fun of, for being too gullible to believe such a ridiculous lie. She would complain to me about her life almost daily about stuff like this. And when it happens this often, it's not just fun little pranks."

[User]
"I see." Myhan closed his eyes, kneading his brow with the back of his other hand. "...Then I suppose going forward, I'll have to be upfront, honest... While not being inconsiderate. Enough drops can form a sea- and there are only so many small thing that one can tolerate without becoming an bigger issue... And so it seems that Cuo has long reached her limit."

He turns back towards Cuo, and then returns to Garuda.

"I'll start with a small apology. Is there any gift she might appreciate?"

[Assistant]
"Yeah. She's had like 2 friends back in Run. And one of them was her teacher. It's safe to say that she's constantly on the knife's edge. I'd get her..."

*Garuda seemed to be thinking for quite a while before turning back to Mahan.*

"I can think of food, particularly sweets, or maybe a nice book.

*Meanwhile, CUO is breathing deeply, trying to calm herself down.*


[User]
"I'd feel better having them come along. Last thing I'd want is them to freeze or get hunted by something in these woods."
*She shrugged, eyeing the pair of steeds worriedly as she whistled for her own. He trotted closer, taking a few tentative steps towards the bundle of predators at the front of the sled.*

[Assistant] "Then we shall bring them with."*He says, tying Carl's lead to the side of the sled so that the horse would be able to keep at their side when they traveled. Unlike a typical toboggan, the sled was built more like a dog sled, offering a proper handle to hold onto while standing at the back as well a place to sit down at in the front with the tied leads of all the wolves pulling just ahead of it. Terrell kept the horse's lead at the side of the handle, soon waiting for Kerala to do the same.*"Next stop Albania. A pretty popular place in the mainland I hear."

[User]
"They got snow down there? I've heard things about Salvainia, mostly good... Their emperor seems like an interesting man, though."
*She mused at the mention, tying the lead slack and giving her horse a pat; whispering their plans and for him to follow. Settling in the seat in front, she twisted around to watch Terrel, clicking her tongue and nodding.*
"Take me places, driver!"
*A small smirk crawled up her face, giving the closest wolf a ruffling of ears and an encouraging bark.*

[Assistant] "Definitely a lot of snow around this time of year, but with our luck, the worst of it should be gone by the time we get there."*He said, leaning on the handle bars at the back. Terrell eyed Kerala as she took a seat at the front, giving an amused shake of his head in response, before standing more upright.*"To Albania!"*He called out.*"Belau!"*The Elf says in his native tongue. The wolves turned tail, scrambling forwards with Chief to guide them into coordination at the front. Gradually, the sled began to move forward, forcing the horses to move along as it picked up speed. The wolves headed for the open gate, racing forwards until they eventually surpassed it in a bout of speed. Terrell let out a low laugh, his cloak flapping wildly as the wind of their departure picked up. Though the twos final destination remained uncertain, Terrell was sure Kerala would grow to enjoy Albania much like he had in time.*


[User] "What's pancakes?" *He inquires, he just asked for a suprise food to be brought to him, he hasn't heard of something called pancakes in his life which isn't surprising he doesn't know much things about the outside besides the general things he had stumble upon, he's still excited about the horse riding lessons but now he's overcome with curiosity.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would look at the younger Elf quizzically, wondering if he should be surprised or not that he didn't even know what pancakes were.*"It's like flat bread that can sweetened with the right topping to it."*He'd explain, deciding to simplify it the best he could.*"You can have one, if you think you can eat it all."

[User] "Ooh really?" *He's curious on what this pancake tastes like and even more curious on what exactly it looks like* "I'll probably have to eat whatever i ordered first though, i did ask for a suprise so maybe it could be a pancake" *He grins, he's not backing down from a challenge though his legs swing in excitement at the prospect, what could this pancake offer him?*

[Assistant] "Don't get too excited for it. It's just sweet bread."*He'd say more casually. As time would pass, eventually the waiter would come out with each of their separate platters, offering up some syrup alongside it. With the waiter being there, the Elf would ask for some coffee to go along with it. It was going to be a long day ahead of them.*

[User] *Lucky for him this mystery food fits the description of pancake, he rubs his hands in anticipation poured the syrup on it for good measures and took a bite of this elusive sweetbread, his pupils dilated and he smiles* "...I want more of this" *He said with a mouthful then continues to eat the pancake, savoring its flavour and his legs swing happily.*

[Assistant] *As the waiter left, Terrell would begin pouring syrup atop the stacks of pancakes he had ordered, soon taking a bite from it. He had to admit, the taste was something he always found favorable, but he wouldn't match the Raccoon's excitement for it when the Elf could get some anytime they visit a tavern.*"Don't get too used to it, we're going to be on the road for a while once we leave the country."*He'd say.*"Probably won't be as many taverns around either."

[User] "Then i shall say goodbye to this... Masterpiece of a food, and bid it a tearful farewell" *He says feigning sadness, though he's still bummed that he won't be eating pancake more often he quickly turned normal afterwards* "So how are we gonna find a horse around here exactly" *He asks, had already finished his food legs still swinging as he awaited an answer from the taller elf.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would take another bite from the pancakes, soon finding a mug of coffee being placed down next to him while he ate.*"We'll go visit the stables we passed by earlier after a quick restock trip through the marketplace. I'm sure they'll be willing to part with a couple horses granted enough gold."*He'd say.*"Hopefully Carl would enjoy the extra company if the pair survive where we're heading long enough."

[User] *He nods with the answer peering through a window waiting for Terrell to finish his breakfast, the sun is brightly shown through the glass as he plays eye spy with himself, it's nice not being alone anymore at least but this game of eye spy is a tad boring he doesn't want to bother Terrel whilst he was eating though so he'll have to find something else as entertainment, he rubs his left hand anxiously when he remember's his heist last night.*

[Assistant] *He'd eventually finish his pancakes, grabbing the mug to take a long sip of the coffee before letting out a quiet sigh.*"Alright, let's go."*He'd say, slinging the bag over his shoulder and placing down a handful of silver before he'd stand up and head off to the door.*

[User] "Oh yeah" *He broke out of his trance and followed Terrel out the door out in the burning sunlight on the bright day, he slightly squinted and pulled on his hood to get out of the sun and not get himself blind by the sun, he skips along the terrain jumping over rocks and avoiding small cracks on the ground, he wondered what will happen during this horse riding lesson will it be good or bad? He'll just have to depend on luck if he wants to successfully ride a horse without getting trampled... Yeah he just jinxed himself.*

[Assistant] *With Nylon running on ahead, the Elf would redirect their route to heading back towards the marketplace. It wasn't hard to find the food stall that they had visited before. This time, he found himself grabbing extra food and spices to go along it. It was mainly vegetables and other snacks, but they were much easier to keep fresh in comparison to meat. Besides with only one of them eating it anyway, it was just a waste of money at the end of day. He'd fill up the bags as much as he could, part of him glad that they'll be having horses to carry more stuff with, but for now, he'll have to show Nylon had to ride a horse well enough to not get lost on the route. With a gesture towards the Raccoon, the Elf would continue on down towards the stables, a few horses seen grazing in the field the closer they got to it.*


[User] "Back to the room. She's going to get bigger than I am if she keeps eating like that, and not in a good way. In case you thought I would get jealous."

[Assistant] "Of what, crow?" Mahan snorted though his smile remained. "Anyway, tell her later that I'm sorry for interrupting her study session like that-oh and if she needs help with Death magic and anything relating to the spiritual discipline my doors are always open. I shan't bother you folks any further anyhow, I've got other things I must be attending to."

[User]
"Oh, I guess I haven't unleashed my full form yet huh? Maybe you'll see it eventually. Right now I'm just Cuo with a different personality."

*Garuda let out a tch at Myhan's snort, clearly a light jab back at him.*

"I'm sure she's got the hang of it. I may have taught her how to do it, but I actually never learned it myself; only the theory. Anyway, I'll be off."

[Assistant] "See you then." Mahan sighed, before he makes his own way out of the alley. He would return to the coffee shop another time, there were other matters he had to attend to.


[User] *He gazes at the horses towering over him as they crossed the stables, he tilts his head at one curious on how he'll survive this task then again it's just riding a horse it's not gonna be that hard it'll be smooth sailing! ...He'll keep a safe distance just to be safe though.*

[Assistant] "Wait here."*He'd say, once they'd reach the gate. The Elf would turn away to head inside the stable area, taking the time to speak with the man at the front desk. It seemed like he was gone for several minutes or so before he'd finally reappear within the open fields, leading a horse over towards the gate that he left Nylon at. The horse seemed to be not as broad as the ones typically bred to carry extra cargo, making him the perfect size for simple riding. Its fur was dark black coloring, it's eyes quite similar as the steed would let out a huff of air in eyeing the much shorter Elf.*"We'll see how you do with him."*The Elf would say, rubbing at the horse's neck with a gloved hand.*"He's supposed to be gentler with new riders, so shouldn't be as hard for you to get used to. You can go ahead and climb over. I asked for a test run before purchasing them."

[User]
"This is... Gonna be fun" *He looks over at the horse, he did say the horse was gentler to new riders and he's definitely new so what's the harm? He's definitely not gonna get jittery now, he climbs over though almost falling but managing to get on the horse.*

"Uhm good horse?" *He grins sheepishly, he gotten this far it wouldn't be getting harder from here on out he's confident in that.*

"This won't backfire on me would it?" *He turns to Terrel.*

[Assistant] "As long as you don't scare them it'll be fine."*He'd answer, letting go of the lead as Nylon managed to hop on.*"Whenever you want the horse to move forward, just give him a light kick to the side and he'll start walking. Use the reigns to help steer them. You can try trotting around the field if you want just try not to get yourself killed while I go get myself a horse."


[User] *Several minutes had passed before any sign of a return came. The faint sounds of pawsteps could be heard nearing her as the trio of wolves would make their way back over to her. They had seemed to have grown so large by now in the several days that had passed. Perhaps it had been weeks by now looking back at it. Floof would sniff at her, eventually giving her a playful lick on the face to get her attention while the sibling duo would prod at her with their snouts. The Elf would make his way over to them soon after as he stood over to her, a childish grin on his face.*

[Assistant]
*She flinched from the sudden lick across her face. Her eyes slowly opening as the adorable Floor was standing in front of her. Slowly she sat up, her back pressing firmly against the tree. She scratched underneath Floor's jaw while calling him a cutie in beast tongue. Once Terrell walked over she stood up and faced him, half expecting some type of directions on what she was supposed to do. She wasn't sure if she should be concerned about the grin or if it was simply because he loved speaking to animals as much as she did.*

"Sometimes I think you like talking to Floor more than I did."

[User] "Funny of you to say that. I think Floof makes a good conversationalist."*He'd say as he'd lower his hand to pat the wolf only to find said hand to be taken over by the sibling duo as they'd nuzzle at it.*"I think the three of us have come to an understanding... Well after five promises to take them hunting later... And fight training and... Well we came to an understanding eventually."*The Elf would let out an exasperated sigh at the thought. The year of them going without speaking must have made their list of demands longer as time went on.*"I think they should practice listening to someone else. I won't be there with them after we leave them at a friends place and I'd rather make sure they know I'm not the only one they should listen to."

[Assistant]
"Are you implying that you didn't know these things before?" *It was pretty obvious where she was going to go with this. From their first interaction Terrell said he had a good understanding of what Floor required. She had taken the standpoint that without actually conversing it would just be assumptions and speculations. She didn't finish her point though as she kneeled down once more to pet Floor on top of his head.*

"He's a very considerate one." *She paused for a few moments, trying to understand what he was implying.*

"I'm not entirely sure what you mean, you want me to... Give orders?" *For some reason the thought of this request was strange to her. A week ago, if someone said Terrell was going to ask her for help training his wolves again. She would've laughed and saw it as a joke.*

[User]
"In my defense. I couldn't speak wolf."*He'd say with a chuckle. It was strange how different things had become between him thinking Manon crazy for having a full out conversation with Floof to now doing the exact same himself. Maybe he was just as crazy now coming to think of it.

In her confusion in his request for her to command his pups, he would merely give a nod to confirm her question.*"Preferably without the whole magic animal talking thing. I doubt they'd be able to do the same to communicate with them."*He'd say.*"Plus it would be a complicated thing to explain."

[Assistant]
*Manon nodded before standing in front of the pup. She gave a dramatic clearing of her throat before opening her mouth. No words came out as she soon realized she hasn't spoken to animals using common tongue for so long. She spoke as if the animals were of a foreign language.* "Can. You. Sit?" *She announced every syllable to the wolves. She had a feeling she sounded ridiculous.*

"Sorry, Terrell. Kinda like moving branches, speaking in beast tongue is natural as well. This is surprisingly hard for me."

[User] *The wolves would stare up at her, keeping where they were as they tried to process what she was saying to them. Terrel would give a light shake of his head, his once childish grin fading to a more lopsided one in his realization that she really didn't know how to switch between the two ways of speaking.*"They only need one word and that's the command."*He'd say, kneeling down to be able to pat at the wolves while he waited for Manon to give it another try.*"Don't ask them. Simply tell them and they'll figure it out."

[Assistant]
*She nodded her head to Terrell before looking down at the three wolves. Taking a deep breath in before issuing a command to the three.*

"Sit." *She said firmly before added a softer, kinder.* "Please."
*She turned her head back to Terrell, looking for some type of approval in his actions. She kneeled down so she could pet each wolf on the top of their heads. First starting with Floor as he was the one she was most comfortable with. Giving his face plenty of love before moving onto Angel. For him, she was a lot softer when it came to petting. Finally, she turned to Blur, first she extended her hand so she could sniff. She knew that this one was the most wary of the vampire, and she respected that maybe she just wouldn't want to be touched.*
"Did you bring any treats for them?"

[User] *Floof would happily lower his rear to the ground, seemingly catching on more easily than the other two. Ansel and Blur would continue watching her as she came down to their level, Ansel closing his eyes against the patting while Blur would simply lower her head as the Vampire drew her hand near and gave a light sniff at it. Terrel would nod at her question of him bringing any treats, reaching to his cloak to give her the pouch of Jerky.*"Only give it to Floof for listening."*He'd say.*"The same goes for the attention giving too."

[Assistant]
"AAAAA? But they get so sad if only one of them gets attention though." *She puffed her cheeks out before standing tall once more, her gaze downcast onto the pups. Without a word she turned around and began walking away. She figured speaking in common tongue would be simpler if she wasn't looking at the wolves when she spoke. As she took around 20 steps away she yelled*

"Come!" *She was surprised on how authoritative she sounded when issuing the command in common tongue. She listened for the sound of paws surging forward, but her magic would tell her the info she needed before her ears did. Hopefully they kept their promises to Terrell.*

[User]
"Can't teach them anything if you reward them for doing nothing."*He'd say before watching her walk off. His wolves would stare after her as well, more so out of curiosity only for their ears to raise up as she yelled the command to them.

Floof would eagerly bound forward, knowing the training well enough on his own to be able to get what she wanted him to do. Blur would follow behind him, deciding it was best to follow the older wolf with his better knowledge. Ansel would merely follow behind, moving at a much slower pace than the two others as he'd eventually join them. The three would stare up at her, tails wagging slowly expectation.*

[Assistant]
*She turned around and kneeled once more at the three pups who managed to follow her command. Petting each one at a time as she looked up at Terrell. She wasn't sure if this was adequate training. Maybe he wanted her to continue, but there was something she couldn't shake her mind about. These three knew that Terrell and Manon could speak animal. Granted they probably didn't know Terrell's was temporary, and Manon's was not.*

"Do you think they're only listening because we're here. Like, specifically us? They know we can understand them now, but whoever you leave them with won't."

*Maybe she was giving these three too much credit on their intelligence, she knew how cunning animals can be after years of communicating.*

[User]
*Terrel took a moment to think about it. Maybe they were, though by now he could only hope they knew enough of the commands to be able to listen when someone else gives them. At least someone trustable enough if Kibaru really believed that this person could handle three wolves.*"Not sure."*He'd say, holding a hand out to which would cause Floof to glance over and happily pace back over to the Elf.*

"We'll just have to hope for the best with them."*He'd say, giving the wolf a pat on the head.*"At least I know Floof will keep an eye on them if anything happens. Isn't that right Floof?"*He'd ask him. The Elf would hold his hand out to which the wolf would place his paw on to allow Terrel to shake it.

The Elf's face lit up at this, soon alternating hands as Floof would shake either one with his paw. A chuckle left him as he'd scratch the wolf behind his ear.*"I'll miss em while we're gone."

[Assistant]
*Manon walked over to Terrell before placing her hand against the top of his head as she recast beast speak onto him. It was unfortunate that she couldn't give it to him forever, she only saw him smile when he was around these three anyway. At least for as long as they tolerated her company, she could reapply the spell for him.*

"I hope they'll keep their end. I enjoy seeing them happy. I guess I enjoy seeing you happy as well, though that's far more uncommon."

*It probably sounded as if she was teasing him, but that wasn't the case this time. For now, it seemed best to just enjoy this time with her companion or friend. She still wasn't sure on which they were, it depended on the day.*

[User]
*He snorted at her comment, figuring himself able to show happiness more often without the mask covering most emotion. Though with the Vampiress around, he supposed he did tend to act more serious especially with her shifting moods and the tasks he had to typically get done even when she was around.*

"If I was happy everywhere I went, you should be concerned."*The Elf would joke back soon looking up at her as she'd reapply the spell again. It was always temporary for him and yet, in the few minutes he had, it felt like the first time he could truly get to meet his own pets.*"I think we've come to an understanding."*He'd say in a reassurance as he'd stand up in time for the other two pups to make their way over.*"That's enough training for today."

[Assistant]
"Maybe at the start, It's nice to see you smile sometimes. I didn't think it was possible giving... Me, I suppose." *She didn't linger around to see what sort of expression he would make. Instead, she began walking towards where she thought the camp was. In her defense she had no idea which way they originally left, all she knew was they were on 'this side' of the creek.*

"Sorrel." *She blurted out suddenly. She found their footprints from earlier, and she wanted along the start of the tree line.* "For your forth pup, I think Sorrel is a lovely name." *She clarified to Terrell, She had a close friend named Sorrel. They were friends since before Manon found her faith magic. The only one who was there from the start.* "I think it could work for both genders."

[User]
*Part of him found the statement confusing. It was never so much the person he smiled to over the situation. He could smile to a person he hated in the heat of trying to kill them, though it wouldn't be necessarily a good thing. With Manon suddenly turning and heading off, Terrel would follow after her as they began heading back to the camp. His pups would bound after him, soon coming to walk at his side once they were finally able to catch up.

He'd shift his gaze down to her as she suddenly blurted out the name, a look of confusion passing over him.*"Sorrel?"*Only once she explained it being the new wolf's name would he think back to when he said she could choose the name of the new wolf pup. He supposed he could admire that she had been thinking about it since then and, in doing so, the Elf would let out a quiet chuckle.*"Sorrel it is then."

[Assistant]
"You might need to lead the way, I don't know where I'm going to be honest." *She began to follow the footsteps, it was the least she could do at the moment. Maybe it would lead her back to camp, or they could possibly just get lost. She figured Terrell would stop her if she went off course though. It probably would've been more detrimental to him than to the vampires, after all she lived in woods anyway.*

"If I ever learn how to bless an object with magic, would you like one that allows you to speak to animals? Or should I keep the crazy talk to myself?"

[User]
*Terrel would move forward a bit to catch up with her, coming to walk at the Vampiress' pace as he'd continue on the path they were already on.*"Not too far from here."*He'd say, angling his head to the path while continuing on the trail.*

*He'd listen to her asking him if he'd want an object blessed with the ability to speak to animals. She could bless objects? The Elf did suppose some magic had its perks, this one seemingly allowing permanent ability to speak with the animals.*"I wouldn't mind it."*He'd say in a more thoughtful tone as if considering always being able to talk to animals. The Elf wondered if removing the object would turn it off just as easily. It would have at least been a better help for Manon seeing as she wasn't completely sure how to properly speak to animals without magic.*

[Assistant]
"I'll do my best to find out if such a thing is possible. I'm not entirely sure if I can though." *Manon continued to move forward until they finally reached their camp. First she walked over to her things and began to pack them up neatly into a bag. It was very unlikely that they would rest here again. A part of her wondered what meal Okapi would make for them today, hopefully he wouldn't try and trick them into eating meat or anything. Maybe she should hide the meat just in case.*

"I had fun, except for. Being snatched from my sleep." *She said while she dug up her umbrella, dusting the dirt from the handle before holding it against her shoulder.*

[User]
*Terrel would come to the edge of the camp, leaning against one of the trees around the area as he watched Manon.*"If you don't want to get snatched from your sleep, don't sleep so heavily. Your magic attacks would have only done so much if a group came and just carried you off without you knowing. Could have ended waking up somewhere completely random."

*With that he'd turn his head away a bit, seemingly going back to his earlier watch of the horizon while the others had been sleeping. His wolves would gradually walk back into the camp, sniffing around as if expecting a new scent to fill the air.*

[Assistant]
"Or just find another way to not scare me." *She walked over to the elf before sitting beside him. She didn't really know what else to do, she lost her basket along the road, so picking plants didn't seem all too worth her while anymore. Maybe a few for a snack but nothing worth selling until she obtained a new one once they reach the city.*

"Suppose we wait for our reckless Okapi to wake up from his sleep, don't we?"


[User]
The Ursinoid found herself stalking through the forests of Kadho, hunting for something to eat. She wasn't too hungry yet, but it would take time to catch and prepare something. Thankfully, now that spring was finally here, the trees and plants had regained much of their green leaves and colorful flowers. While Sonja was by no means small, it still made hunting that much easier than it might have been otherwise.

But as the large Beastkin carefully moved through the trees, being sure not upset any plants or leaves, a strangely similar sent caught her attention! She paused, sniffing the her for a moment, before turning in the direction it seemed to have drifted from. Surely it couldn't be what she thought it was, right? Determined to get to the bottom of this, Sonja temporarily abandoned her quest for food, instead pursing this strange smell that had piqued her interest.

[Assistant]
Besides the grass and faint smells of prey items, a pair of very distinguished, yet distant scents wafted on the wind. Vague as they were, the general idea was easy to pick of what these things were. What smelled of produce and metal, and another that smelled like blood, scales, and leather. Only shortly did she has to travel before she came across what mightve been believed to be the source of the smells.

There was a huge... Ass... *Dragon*. Just, laying in the grass, sleeping away. While it was already abnormal and quite frightening for such a beast to be sleeping out here, there is another thing that blatantly stood out; a leather saddle strapped over its back. Looked to be handcrafted, with all sorts of designs etched into the Hide exterior. Strangely, the beast seemed to be alone out here... Though surely the rider wasn't far off, and by the smells, she was already here.

[User]
As the Ursinoid huntress laid eyes on the massive scaly beast, she froze in place. What the heck was that?! It looked totally foreign to Sonja, who had never heard of dragons before, let alone seen one in person. Not wanting to take her chances with this particularly tough looking creature, the Beastkin bear was about to call it quits and return to her previous scavenging. But something caught her attention: the saddle.

Apparently, the imposing monster was domesticated? Sonja found that hard to believe, but it seemed they weren't alone. Yes, that familiar scent was stronger here. Perhaps they were even this beast's rider? How curious.

Keeping a watchful brown eye on the sleeping dragon, the Ursinoid took a moment to separate these strange scents. There was fresh grass, scales, leathers, blood... Perhaps the monster had had a meal and was passive for the moment? Sonja could only hope. Then, she smelled it again! She slowly began to follow the scent, careful not to disturb the sleeping dragon as she searched the nearby forest for its presumed rider.

[Assistant]
The scent was right on the other side of the beast, it seemed! She was so close, and so careful yet... Careful as she was to sneak around the beast, it left a cold huff out from its mouth, and it's piercing orange eyes opened up. It glared at Sonja as she tip-toed across before lifting its head and letting this Louis rumble out from within its breast. It seemed ready to defend itself, and presumably it's rider too, but it didn't quite act yet. Furthermore, it simply laid there in patient waiting, before another sound piped up from below the wing on the other side of the beast.

*"Shhh, shut up, if it's another fox I'm going to smack you."* The voice mumbled in Run rant from below the wing.
A language that unfortunately, Sonja did not know. But a voice that she likely recognized. The voice - and specifically that *Thick* Mention accent of a certain dog.
A dog who, despite the current circumstances, did not at all seem even remotely concerned with the current happenings. She didn't even leave from below the wing of the beast, instead opting to try to go back to sleep.

[User]
The scent was right on the other side of the beast, it seemed! She was so close, and so careful yet... Careful as she was to sneak around the beast, it left a cold huff out from its mouth and it's piercing orange eyes opened up. It glared at Sonja as she tip-toed across before lifting its head and letting this loooow rumble out from within it's breast. It seemed ready to defend itself, and presumably it's rider too, but it didn't quite act yet. It simply laid there in patient waiting, before another sound piped up from below the wing on the other side of the beast. *"Ssshhhh, shut up, if it's another fox I'm going to smack you."* The voice mumbled in Runrant from below the wing. A language that unfortunately, Sonja did not know. But a voice that she likely recognized. The voice - and specifically that *Thick* Mentian accent of a certain dog. A dog who, despite the current circumstances, did not at all seem even remotely concerned with the current happenings. She didn't even leave from below the wing of the beast, instead opting to try to go back to sleep.

Sonja froze as the beast awakened. She could see—and feel—its piercing orange eyes fixed on her. That *Really* Didn't seem. Her fight or flight instinct was kicking in now, and given the truly massive size of the scaly beast, Sonja wasn't sure even her large greataxe would do anything against it. But before the Ursinoid could make good on her flight, a familiar voice wafted through the air, though the words themselves were meaningless to Sonja.

Between the scent and the voice, there was no more doubt in her mind. But rather than try to confirm it visually, Sonja chose to stay still, perhaps worried about what the scale covered monster might do.

"...Carlyn!" The Ursinoid half whispered, half hissed. "...It's Sonja. Are you under there? What is this... *Thing?*" She wasn't sure what to call it.

[Assistant]
Carly's response was immediate, and her code switching kicked in almost instantaneously to Hawaiian.
*"Sonja?! Whey-"*

The brown haired kimono pushed her way out from under the wing of the dragon, who protested with a groan and almost smacked Carly with her wing, though eventually lifted it up and let her free. Without word, Carly lunged forward into Sonja (complete with damn near losing her footing, she was already on the move before even standing up) and giving her this great big hug - as big as she could manage on a woman much bigger than she was.

*"What are you doing here?! I-I hadn't thought I'd see you for months to come! But-like, y-."*
Carly reached up and stepped back, placing her hands against Sonja's arms to take a good look at her. The dog looked as happy as ever, if not more than usual.
*"You're here! You're here, in my home, and not at that... Stupid little village we were holed in!"*

[User]
To Sonja's surprise, Carlyn emerged from under the monster's wing without injury. She was relieved this creature hadn't been planning to eat her friend. Before the Ursinoid even had time to react, the friendly dog had pulled her into a great big big hug! Sonja remained rigid at first, almost awkwardly so. She wasn't used to being hugged. It was a foreign sensation, but warm. Perhaps it would have also been easier to relax if not for the large scaly beast lurking just yonder.

"I... Well... Yes." Sonja affirmed with a nod, one of her brown bear ears twitching. The serious bear even managed a faint smile at the sight of her happy friend. Sonja seemed about as big as she had been before, and while she still dressed rather plainly, it was clear their lucrative escapades as a mercenary group had helped her acquire better gear.

"Work brought me this way." That was one way to put it. "And... I heard there was good fish here." She cautiously explained, before reaching out to give Carlyn a gentle pat on the head, ruffling her ears. "...How have you been? Who's the giant lizard?"

[Assistant]
She appreciated the pat on her head, before backing away and giving a thoughtful nod about seeking work. Truthbetold, she had come back home to make a bit of money whilst their duties in Tellemuiler were on standby. She hadn't wanted to sit around all day waiting for the call to action, and clearly Sonja hadn't been inclined to, either.
Interestingly, Carly dressed quite *Differently* Than she had when in the village. Most of the time, she wore nothing short of 'rich people' clothing. Probably all her best stuff from home. She made her appearance, particularly any sort of 'cute' factor stand out. It was either that, or the exact opposite, with her reinforced full faille armor on. But here in the middle of the damn woods? Scotty tunic, rugged pants, and no shoes. Almost looked homeless, funny enough.

*"La'Vera, my pet. I'm surprised you don't remember, this is the dragon we saved almost half a year ago now. He's quite obedient... Usually. But he's also good company when I'm out in the woods."*

Carly started speaking at the beast in Run rant again, holding out her hand and walking towards it. The beast lowered it's head and let her pat its snout with a huff.
Her head turned back over her shoulder, giving Sonja a bright smile and saying, *"I've been quite good, actually! I came back home to make money at the shop again. Besides that, I've just been enjoying sleeping in my own bed again. Even if being back here is temporary, I'm enjoying it. And, yeah! The fish here is incredible! No surprise, this is a port town after all, but in my opinion the ones that go through the rivers out here are better than any of the ocean fish."*


[User]
*He urged the horse to go find a good place to do a test run, so far so good now all he have to do is kick the horse a lil harder than usual to send them running hopefully not too far away from their original location, he kicks the horse abit more than lightly and tensed once the run starts.*

*Screaming silently he quickly pulled back the reigns and the two stop, he's shaking slightly he's not really used to the whole riding a horse but he didn't think he'd be shaking like a leaf over a little speed.*

*If this is gonna be the fastest way to go around he'll have to get use to it, and shaking like a leaf while and gripping the reign like it was his lifeline is not helping him make his case.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would give his horse a light tap, going off into an easy stride across the field, while he would glance over to see Nylon starting and stopping nervously atop the horse.*"The horse can tell when you're nervous."*He'd say back to him.*"Just relax. Let him stretch out his legs."*The Elf would get his horse to turn back around, trotting back over to Nylon's side.*"Gotta take some risk. Surely this isn't any worse than the stuff you do regularly."*He'd say with a quizzical expression or at least as quizzical as what showed of his face would allow.*

[User] *He turned to Terrel with a peeved look* "I'm just not use to this kinda risk, it's fine when i know what I'm doing." *He relaxed once his heartbeat stop being so loud and his jitters stop being noticeable* "I don't know what to do here so unless i know what the odds of me surviving are I'm gonna be very scared of any move i make till i get a big picture of what I'm doing" *He has taken risk before yes but he knew some of the consequences of those this though he's very much unprepared for what's to come, he still didn't fancy dying somewhere he doesn't recognize let alone dying to something like getting bucked by a horse and landing on a very hard rock.*

[Assistant] "At the rate you're going at, walking normally would be faster."*He'd say, bringing his horse to an eventual stop.*"Would it make you feel better if I tied their leads together?"*Terrell would say. At any rate, he could at least get this horse to move in pace with him, doubting Nylon would attempt to get off while they were moving anyway. Just getting some experience at a faster pace was all that was needed really. As long as they could keep that up, they'll be able to cross the relatively flat terrain easily.*

[User] "I prefer walking till then, I'm not ready for speeding with a horse till i feel like I'm ready, and yes it'll make me feel better if you tied their leads together at least i won't have to go the wrong path and get lost" *He confessed, this is a very new change he's not opposed to it but he is still very much terrified he prays to whoever god is listening to give him a break from bad luck for a while so he won't have to face anything untoward in his travels till the main mission.*

[Assistant] *Terrell would slip down from his horse, grabbing each of their leads and tying the two together.*"I'll be right back."*He'd say, heading off towards the stable building. A few moments would pass again before he'd return.*"Alright let's go."*He'd say, climbing back up onto his horse's back. The Elf would give the horse a kick to the side, bringing him into a much swifter trot which in turn soon forced Nylon's to move along in pace with him.*"I'll condemn you to that horse until you've gotten used to it. Otherwise, we'll be wasting daylight."

[User]
"Dang it" *He curses at the fact he'll be stuck on the horse till he learns, he tensed again when they start moving though trying to relax as to not disturb the ride, at least he'll get over the fear over sometime and hopefully it won't be very long.*

"So where we heading next?"

[Assistant] "Next up Mara."*He'd say, repeating the second of the three cities he once listed out to the Wood Elf.*"Try checking the map if that'll distract you any. There may be a few cities between here and there."