2017 - One-on-one with Mason (Hikaru), Emily (Armella), Chantry (Rodrick and Rolland) and Jessi (Ruby)
Chantry: Rolland pipes up, “Well, Miss Ruby... I'm going to take a stroll into town... See what kind of mess I can stir up. Would you care to join?”
Jessi: Ruby looks at you with an exhausted, but humored expression. “Sure... I think some fresh air anda change of scenery should do some good. And I really don't want to lose track of ev'ryone... I'll join y'all, sure.”
Chantry: Rolland makes his way off of the airship, scoffing as a deckhand offers help. “Ugh! your hands are filthy, Sir! Have you been smearing your hair with grease each morning?! Miss Ruby, watch out, this oaf may soil your dress!”
Jessi: Ruby keeps glancing over as we walk, observing your new form and dress. Unable to help herself, she says, “It's really interestin' seeing you like... like this. Human. I mean,” she stutters, “Not that human's better, just... high class…” she looks more flustered now. “Wait--NO I mean.. Ugh. Sorry, I should just keep my trap shut, I end up puttin' both my boots in it.”
She blushes kind of ashamed, and looks away. “You’ve quite a different personality, I meant… That's all.”
Chantry: Rolland glances over at Ruby inquisitively, one eyebrow raised. “That's quite all right. Rodrick has a bit of... shall we say... a less refined side?”
Jessi: “I suppose... That is a very nice way of puttin' it. I suspect all of your, um… forms, tie into you? Each one is part of the whole you?” Her brow furrows. “You as in… well... Pardon, but if each one carries a different name, what's your real name?” She’s honestly trying to understand and means well, but is most definitely awkward about it.
Chantry: He smirks slightly. “Why yes... In a way. Each of the personalities within me shows through in my true form. His name is Rakk... I'm assuming you saw him when Rodrick was foolhardy enough to try to kill us... Ugly fellow, inn'it he?”
Jessi: “Mmmm…” Ruby tries to think back, and concentrates on what she remembers. “I--I dunno, it's more the shock of all the changin' that gets to me. I must say I'm slowly gettin' used to that. I wouldn't say that Rok.. Rh.. Rhak was it? That he's… ugly.” She looks over to gauge your reaction. She’s trying her best to be kind about all this, but is not sure if she's doing that great of a job.
Chantry: He chuckles quietly to himself. “Yeah, it was quite a shock to me as well when it started... anywho... there's a tea house. I hope they have steam buns, I'm famished!” He walks toward the tea house, his exotic wood cane click-clacking on the cobbles.
Jessi: Ruby smells the steam in the air. “Mmm that does smell good... Steam buns you say? That sounds mighty interesting, I'm not sure I've tried that before?” She follows after quickly, happy for a change of subject as she's not sure she wants to chance saying something else rude.
Mason: Hikaru sits at a table drinking tea rather slowly and politely, especially for Hikaru.
Chantry: He pushes the rice paper door open, his exotic leather boots and cane in his hand, muttering to himself. “Ruddy foreign concepts... who wants to take their shoes... Oh hey! Hikaru!” He begins waving his armload of boots and cane furiously.
Mason: Hikaru rolls his eyes and pretends he doesn't see him.
Emily: Armella sits next to him, drinking her sake and staring at the table, lost in thought.
Mason: He whispers to Armella, “Don't acknowledge him, don't encourage him.”
Jessi: Ruby follows in after, kind of confused, and stumbles trying to take her boots off. “Eh--what? They're here? Well that's like findin' a needle in a haystack...” She puts her shoes nicely in a bag inside her purse and walks toward the table with everyone.
Chantry: Rolland is stopped by the house matron. “No, ma'am I'm quite capable of finding my own way to a table. My companions are waiting for me over there!” He points at Armella and Hikaru, trying to communicate in his broken Wuxian.
Mason: “For the love of Tarj why is he so high and mighty...”
Chantry: Rolland walks over to the table, still muttering about the need to take his shoes off. “Can anyone explain this blasted custom?!” He lifts his shoes before sitting down.
Mason: “Politeness Rolland, something which you can't seem to abide.” He bows an apology to the poor matron.
Jessi: Ruby looks around nervously for any signs of the fellows from earlier. “Have you and the others been… safe here so far?”
Mason: “Yes we were fine until this great windbag blew in. Now we're all in danger of getting blown away by his excess of personality.”
Chantry: “I have enough politeness for things that make sense, Hikaru. Like being polite when ordering food and drink.” He motions to a worker to order steamed pork buns. “Also, bring me a bottle of your best Whisky. The older the better!”
Jessi: “Oh…” Ruby looks back and forth between you, and kinda mumbles her herself, “I think he's rather charming.......... you look more regal too, Hikaru! In that traditional outfit, I mean.” She blushes a bit and mumbles again about feeling a little stuffy.
Mason: “They don't SELL whiskey Rolland, it's sake.”
Chantry: “I'm sure they have SOMETHING...”
Jessi: “Does everyone here drink sake?” She glances around.
Mason: “Be my guest, you'll get it whether they have it or not.” He turns to Ruby. “Most of us drink sake, tea or other various Wuxian spirits.”
Chantry: Rolland scoffs. “You're dang right...”
Mason: “You know you have OTHER personalities Rolland, why was THIS the one?”
Chantry: “Because he would blend the best, obviously! Where else would a stuffy noble wanting to travel exotically go?”
Mason: Hikaru sighs distressfully.
Jessi: Ruby sees Hikaru's discomfort, and she signals for an order of... something. She’s not really sure she's asking right, but attempts to order the steam buns and sake as well.
Mason: Hikaru aids Ruby in ordering.
Jessi: “Thanks... I suppose it would do me well to learn a few phrases, huh?”
Mason: “Depends on how long we're here I guess, or how much time you plan to spend here in the future Ma'am.”
Jessi: When Ruby is brought the sake, she pours a second small cup and slides it over to Hikaru… the first time she’s offered him alcohol. “Well… that’s true, now isn’t it?”
Mason: Hikaru eyes the small cup, carefully picks it up, and slowly drinks it.
Chantry: Rolland blows the dust off the bottle the matron brings him. “Lovely! See Hikaru? They have a McCallun 25!” He pulls the cork and smells it before pouring a glass. “Pork bun anyone?” He holds up the bamboo basket and gestures to the table.
Mason: Grumbles to himself about the idiocies of going to foreign country to have food from home.
Jessi: Ruby can’t help but smile, for a moment. “I suppose at this time you're not technically Hikaru... and you're not Armella… Not since our escapade earlier. I'm going to hire you, to help with….my airship. If you catch my meanin'.” She looks at the pork buns being offered and takes one daintily from the basket. “Thank you, Rolland, what a mighty fine dish that appears to be! I’d love to try one.”
Emily: “You people are rather odd.” Armella takes a steam bun and grumpily eats it. She is rather blank faced and looks at the table again.
Mason: “I understand ma'am. That would be acceptable.” He turns to his friend. “Armella what's wrong, you look like you ate the wrong thing.”
Jessi: “Are you not feelin' well? These are... really, really good!” She eyes the pork bun with intense interest. “You should try one...” She pushes it over to you.
Chantry: “Pardon me if sake leaves an undesirable taste in my mouth.” Rolland picks up a pork bun and bites into it, followed by a sip of whisky. “Ahh, delightful...”
Emily: “I don't normally drink, but I'm fine. I'm just thinking, what's wrong with being odd? Nothing. It's like what's wrong with having different types of flowers?”
Mason: “…Flowers?” The idea is lost on the combat-driven Hikaru.
Emily: “Yeah, flowers, they're all different but beautiful in their own way. What's wrong with not wanting to destroy the ones that are different?”
Mason: “Well nothing I suppose…” He looks to Ruby for help.
Jessi: “I…” Ruby’s at a loss for what to say, and looks back and forth between the two of you.
Emily: She is getting kind of upset but drinks more.
Jessi: “I don't... think... that's bad? Not destroying flowers...” She’s attempting to pick her words wisely. Her brow furrows, and she observes Armella carefully.
Mason: Hikaru tries not to be dense, but is very dense.
Jessi: Ruby sips her sake, thinking about what you said and trying to apply it. “Well everyone's a bit odd… everyone's a different kind of flower... they all have their pretty petals on the outside, and different smells. Some have... thorns.” She sneaks a slight glance at Trident sitting at the bar, engrossed in her own thoughts.
Mason: Hikaru looks at Rolland wondering if he knows what she meant about flowers.
Emily: Armella puts her head on the table and grumbles. “If I had just did what I was told this wouldn't be happening.”
Jessi: Ruby looks back at you with concern. “Did what you're told? Sweetie, I mean... you've been an amazing help on all these expeditions, I don't think you've ever done anythin' wrong?”
Mason: “If there's anything I know it's that I do the wrongdoings Armella, not you.”
Emily: She looks at both of you. “Perhaps not wrong to what you think, but I was in the wrong from the point of view of those who are tracking me. To not obey when you are supposed to know better is worse than doing wrong when you don't know anything.”
“It's not like I haven't done anything like that before. I have. The one time I say no to it.”
Mason: Hikaru stares blankly, and then works really hard at trying to figure out what she means.
Emily: Armella puts her head back on the table. “I'm going to regret drinking in the morning, aren't I?”
Mason: “Not if you keep drinking.” He looks at Ruby a little nervous. “I mean, yeah… but coffee helps.”
Jessi: “Well...” Ruby looks around, still worried those guys are somewhere in town; she’s not sure what to say. She looks back at Hikaru. “It’s… okay. Moderation is the key to life.”
Ruby clears her throat, and looks a little sheepish. “Armella sweetie, I... I mean… who was it wrong to? Was it something against... Tarj?” She looks conflicted, trying to think of something you'd do that's heinous, but can't picture you doing it.
Mason: Hikaru looks incredulous at Ruby, like, “What is she talking about?” then all the pieces fit into place. “Ooooooooh.”
Chantry: “Armella, I haven't gotten the chance to talk to you much, but from my observations, the only thing you could do that's wrong would be forgetting to take your shoes off before walking into this place... or overtipping back home... or paying somebody for junk they shouldn't be selling. My point is, the only mistake you can make would be doing something by accident or out of kindness.”
Mason: Hikaru nods in agreement.
Jessi: Ruby sees the comprehension on Hikaru's face, and gives him a poignant look. “I agree with Rolland on that as well.” She concludes.
Mason: “That fits into how you were when we were kids Armella. You might be willing to beat the trash out of someone, but they only ever deserved it.”
Chantry: “Unlike Hikaru and myself, I believe you wouldn't do something wrong on purpose. For you to do something wrong, you would have to forget or overlook something. You are good to your core, and no one can fault you for that. We,” he gestures to himself and Hikaru, “have to struggle to be good. We've fought it for so long that sometimes doing what's wrong just comes second nature...”
Emily: Armella lifts her head looks at you, and takes another drink. “Kindness...I could have at least made it more painless.”
“Do you really think that I'm all that nice? I'm not. Not all the time. I have to make up for what I've done. I should go up to that stupid man and bash his face in. Then at least he'll leave me alone....”
Jessi: Ruby just listens intently, feeling the pain behind your words.
Mason: Hikaru smiles maliciously. “That could be fun--I mean, maybe.”
Chantry: “Which man? The hierophant?”
Emily: “Yes, but they would just send another. It would be more beneficial to all of you if I were to just turn myself in. Then they would leave you all alone.”
Chantry: He thinks to himself a moment. “As much as this pains me to say...” Rolland physically looks like he's in pain. “You should avoid him. Leave him be. As much as I'd love to help you beat his skull in, we should avoid falling victim to that temptation.”
Emily: “Would we leave then? To be hunted? I truly wish that were not a part of Tarj's church. But fools fear what they don't understand.”
Chantry: “I've been hunted since I drew my first breath, why should my next be different?”
Mason: “And I have been on and off, being on both sides of the law. I've always just eliminated all the threats as they approach, no loose ends.”
Emily: “But that doesn't mean that it's okay. If I can get you two out of at least one hunt that would be good.”
Chantry: “They hunt that which they do not understand, because they fear it. They fear you because they don't understand why you left. They fear Hikaru because they don't understand part of his bloodline, and they fear me for what I am. They haven't asked why or what, they just do the damage and try to sweep it under the rug. They have no sense of morality when it comes to what they deem wrong, only that it's wrong.”
“Who cares if the magic person they're hunting is nothing more than a crying infant, only a few days old in this world? They fear her because she has a mark or blemish that they interpret to mean magic, and so they cast her off the cliffs and into the sea... A helpless baby, no means to defend herself... all because they are driven by fear.” As Rolland finishes his sentence, he grabs his drink and downs it, which is HIGHLY out of turn for Rolland. He looks shaken.
Mason: “…I can't stop any person from taking their path. But I could go with you if you decide.”
Emily: Armella stares at Rolland then Hikaru. She stands up. “I think I need to get some air. Please excuse me.”
Chantry: “I apologize if my words have hurt you. It was not my intention, Miss.” He stands up as Armella does.
Mason: Hikaru looks at Ruby and when Armella gets outside. “Has she been like this for a while Ma'am?”
Chantry: Rolland sits back down and pours another drink, looks at it, shudders, and then downs it as well.
Jessi: Ruby stares at Rolland too, somewhat in shock; she's not been sure of what to say for the last few minutes, feeling somewhat an outsider to all of this...but feeling the intensity of pain thick in the air, of heartache, of horror...she stares down into her cup.
Mason: Hikaru actually looks calm, although concerned.
Jessi Ruby stammers. “I... I'm not sure. She seemed more easy goin' when we first met. But I suppose, especially during this last trip, she has become more introverted than before.”
Mason: He fondles his revolver. “We could always try to solve the problem for her.” He gets a fire in his eyes. He also isn’t smiling, which he would do if he were more enthusiastic, and less vengeful.
Jessi: Ruby continues to drink her sake, not really caring for her motto of moderation at the moment.
Chantry: Rolland grabs a few more glasses and pours a shot of scotch into each, before sliding one to both Ruby and Hikaru. “To family.” He raises his glass.
Mason: Hikaru downs it in one gulp, and grimaces at the burn.
Jessi: Ruby takes it gingerly. “To... Yes, to family.” She lifts it and slowly drinks the whole glass.
Chantry: Rolland gestures with his glass to the heavens, then drinks it with one swallow, a tear forming in his eye.
Mason: Hikaru gets a little glassy eyed. “Family huh?” He looks at the glass with an angry intense sort of look that screams, “I need more alcohol for this NEW conversation.”
Jessi: Ruby nibbles at another pork bun, her appetite somewhat lost but she is desperately wanting something to do with her hands.
Chantry: He puts a stopper in the bottle and tucks it into his bag, and then mumbles to himself. “Not that much of it is left...” It feels ambiguous if he’s talking about the alcohol or family.
Mason: He slams the glass down a little too hard and turns away wiping a tear that sprung unbidden.
Chantry: A single tear rolls down Rolland's left cheek. “Careful with the glassware, my friend...”
Jessi: “Well...” Ruby sighs slightly, slurring. “It's been nice. I mean... all of this travelin'. It's really like havin' a lil makeshift family. Even with all the squablin' and quarellin'...”
Mason: Hikaru fumbles for a second with his emotions and then hurriedly gets the matron to bring another bottle of whiskey. He downs two whole glasses in quick succession, his glass shaking in his hands both times, before he seems even a little more calm.
He looks at Ruby meaningfully as though the thought hadn't occurred to him.
Jessi: “I know it doesn't.. make up for the real thing though.” She finishes off another cup of sake; not sure how much she’s had. She doesn't even seem to notice you ordering more, or perhaps, doesn't seem to mind so much as she used to.
Mason: Hikaru reaches over and grabs Rolland's shoulder, unexpectedly warm, and Ruby's hand. His face is torn a little between awkward embarrassment and relief at the physical contact.
Jessi: Ruby tries to blink away the fuzzy stupor from her eyes, realizing with surprise her hand is being held.
Chantry: “Better a makeshift family than none at all... Although... Rodrick would probably torch me for saying that, if that were possible...” He says with a slight chuckle.
Mason: “It's all I got left, so may as well make it worth something. But Armella is part of that f- f- f-“ He whispers, “Family, so we can't let her go alone.”
Jessi: Ruby’s quiet a moment. “No... no we can't.” She squeezes your hand, really noticing how young you still are, under all the weight of responsibility and years of hurt.
Chantry: “Not quite True, Hikaru... You always told me that your mom wasn't with the rest of your family. She escaped. She could still be out there somewhere... Don't give up on that... Remember what I used to tell you...”
Mason: “I don't know that Rolland. I never saw her. I just... don't know.”
Chantry: “Well, I'll do my best to put it how that dolt Rodrick would put it... ahem. Well stop sobbing in your drink, toss it back, and know it in your heart that we'll find her. Ugh, that was... distasteful. Why did I do that? Remind me never to do that again. His words are vile.”
Mason: “Not so vile as yours Rolland. He smirks through a grimace.
Jessi: Ruby looks at Hikaru. “We'll find answers.” She stares at you for a long moment, almost awkwardly long, not used to drinking at all.
Mason: Hikaru lets go of the two of them and tosses another drink back. He looks at Ruby. “Heh, haven't drank much have you?”
Chantry: “Well I never...! I'll have you know, out of all of us, Rolland is usually the one most liked! And please... this is just an afternoon sip... Oh you mean Miss Ruby. Ha.”
Jessi: She squints her eyes, and looks between you both. “I'm not sure I have... I can't remember the last time I've drank... socially.”
She pauses. “We're... on this here expedition. We're flying all over the Terra.” She waves her hands flippantly. “What's to keep us from finding more than what we seek for good ol' Luther? There's plenty out there...”
Mason: “I know I'm looking.” Killing intent raises by like, over 9000.
Jessi: Ruby’s voice has lost some of the southern...ness, somehow, and it seems slightly lower than usual.
Mason: Hikaru snaps out of it. “Heh, if it weren't for the occasion, I probably wouldn't be touching the stuff thanks to you.”
Chantry: Rolland looks at her, intrigued.
Jessi: “That's…. true.” She slurs a bit and smiles at Hikaru, her voice suddenly smoother, slower, deeper like an older individual. “But... I do like to drink at high class events... sometimes. It's a beautiful way to get to know your audience. What did you say the history of this liqueur was?”
Mason: “I'm not so certain, although I'm sure Rolland... Are you alright Miss Ruby?”
Chantry: Rolland pulls out his pocket watch and opens it, obviously not checking the time due to the fact that he's blatantly looking inside the lid, and mutters to himself. “I'll find a way for us to be together again, Darling...”
“Huh? Oh yes...” Snaps his watch closed with a sniff and sits up straight. “Which drink? The sake or the whiskey?”
Jessi: “Rolland?” She looks over at you, with a most different expression than before. “Oh, well…” She bats her eyes. “Both seem to have quite the intriguing history. It seems you know your spirits very well? I have a large collection of rose wines I cultivate at my villa, but I'm somewhat new with other branches of that tree.”
Mason: Hikaru looks at his drink then at you, and back and then shrugs and tosses another one.
Chantry: “Ah, I love fine spirits. Each has its own story, and each is more different than the next! Although they all kind of stem from the same branch.”
Jessi: Ruby’s taking more drinks of the sake again, until it's almost gone. Her voice is still completely different than normal. “Might I inquire, where did you happen to learn such riveting details of the art? Absolutely fascinating subject...” She eyes Rolland with a strange look, completely affected by the alcohol in some way.
Chantry: “The whisky is a McCallun. Very northern. Aged in an oak cask that has been seasoned with sherry. It has notes of sweet citrus, light spice, and vanilla. The rich caramel color comes from the cask itself, no artificial color or dye has been added.”
Jessi: “How beautiful the flavors combine together, it's like an orchestra... Rich and... Mysterious....”
Chantry: “It is a single malt, meaning it has not been blended with another scotch or whiskey. Prefer Caorunn Gin myself. Sake is made primarily from rice and water, with the aid of yeast and a healthy bacteria known as koji. The koji is sprinkled on top of the rice water mixture, which converts some of the starch into sugars, and the sugar is in turn used by the yeast to make alcohol. It is kind of a simple alcohol, not so complex and full bodied. Sake is more of a single flavor, rather than a depthy one.”
Jessi: She twirls her drink in the glass, slowly, listening with an uncalled for attentiveness. But is roused by something arbitrary, and her voice seems to slip back into the deep southern slur, heavier than usual. “Now now now cowboy... Caorunn Gin is also a mighty fine liquor. To me it's got a.... hic kick like a horse in heat. Wouldn't ya know it, but I'm not really one for drinkin. The church is all for thinkin and for doin, and it's mighty hard to do either when you're…”
She stares at her cup again, then up at Hikaru with a funny look. “Wait, a'bout how much did I give you, ya youngin'?? You ain't old enough to drink… what was I thinkin'...” She fumbles and pushes a cup of tea to you instead.
Mason: Hikaru smiles maliciously.
Chantry: “Ahh, Caorunn. A nice gin. Made in copper vats using various berries, mint, rose petals, and other delicates to infuse the water which is then boiled and destilled down to a fine alcohol. Best served with ice and buttery cookies. Or straight.”
Mason: “With more to accompany it.”
Chantry: “Quite true, but a few drops of water to open the floral notes will help make that gin be more flavorful and smooth.” Rolland leans forward on his elbows, smiling with genuine pleasure at the discussion of his favorite subject.
Jessi: She draws the cup of tea back to her, and starts to sip it instead of her alcohol. Her frown transitions to a forlorn, shy expression. She stutters heavily, “I'm s-sorry, I--I don't usually d-d-drink like this, it m-makes me all queasy and n-nervous... iced berry tea and buttery cookies, t-that sounds nice though... This t-t-tea reminds me of h-home.”
Mason: Hikaru grunts. “Why’s that Miss Ruby?”
Jessi: She lets out a long sigh, forgetting she was mad at Hikaru about drinking again. She looks up at both of you, watching her so closely, and gets even more nervousness to her voice. “I-i-i... I'm not sure, I-i suppose it's floral.. f-fruity like my f-father often m-makes...”
Chantry: “Say, Hikaru... Miss Ruby is looking a bit... ill. Do you suppose she might need some of that tonic we came up with for Ruck?”
Mason: “And one of us should probably check on Armella. She's been gone for a while.” He stumbles up.
Jessi: “I-i'm really n-n-not one for drinking hard l-liquor...” Her body language kind of curls up, and she lays her head on the table, behind her arms.
Mason: Hikaru begins to make his way out of the place.
Jessi: “A-armella…” At the name she looks up, then straightens up again turning to look around the room. “Where'd that gal head off too? She better not be gettin' in no trouble, or I'ma be more upset than a basket of bees.”
She watches Hikaru go, and without looking away says to Rolland, “You've taken good care of 'em. I'm glad he's had a father figure in his life, after losin' one so young.”
Chantry: “Don't stand up now, Miss... Give me a minute to find it...” He starts rummaging in his satchel. “Dang it, I know it's here somewhere... it's always in here... where... is... it?!”
“I appreciate the kind words, Miss Ruby. Won't be a minute before you're feeling nearly back to 100 percent!” He goes back to rummaging in his bag. “AHA! Here it is.” He hands you a small vial, filled with a dark red liquid that looks nearly like blood, but has more of a pinkish swirl to it. “Drink this, and give it a few minutes. Don't worry, it’s just ginseng, cactus fruit, and a few other things.”
Jessi: “Hmm...” Glossy-eyed she eyes it, and takes the vial, drinking it in a long, slow sip.
Mason: Hikaru gets outside and looks about for Armella.
Emily: Armella is standing outside, about to come back inside. She looks calmer but still a little flushed.
Mason: Hikaru smells of whiskey, but walks over. “You alright Armella?”
Emily: “Yes, I'm fine thank you. I'm sorry if I made you three worry. I guess I get rather odd when I drink.” She nods to Hikaru. “We should go back in, in case they worry. Or at least if Ruby worries.”
Mason: “That would be best. I think Armella.” Kind of smiles good naturedly, which is an odd sight for him. He motions to the door.
Jessi: “Oh my head... I feel like I fell asleep for a moment there.” Ruby looks at the vial. “This is quite interestin'... did you make it yourself?”
Chantry: Rolland pulls a few more vials from his satchel and sets them on the table for Hikaru and Armella for when they get back. “I've known Hikaru long enough to tell that he'll want one of these, and guessing by how she nearly fell over walking out, I'm sure Miss Armella could benefit from one as well.”
Jessi: “I reckon so... I don't blame the poor fella. Or you...”
Chantry: “Quite! Well, young Hikaru helped me as well. We had to find something for... well... we will just call it... Ruck and Hikaru's nightly outings...”
Jessi: “I see...” She shakes her head, trying to clear out whatever fogginess is left. “It seems to work wonders. I might need to ask for your help in learning some of these brewin' tricks. I do like alchemy, on occasion...”
Chantry: “Well I'd be honored to show you how to brew up a batch of hangover cure!”
Emily: Armella goes back inside and returns to the table after removing her shoes. “Well it looks like you are enjoying yourselves.”
Mason: Hikaru comes back in and grabs the bottle of whiskey and begins to pour himself another glass.
Chantry: He smiles as Armella returns to the table. “How's your head, Miss? A little fuzzy? Swimming? Foggy?”
Emily: “Perhaps a little fuzzy but I will survive I think.” She smiles slightly back before looking at Ruby. “I'm sorry if I worried you Ruby, I did not intend to have my feelings show like that.”
Chantry: He puts his hand over Hikaru's full glass and pulls it to himself, sliding a vial of reddish liquid back towards him before downing the glass with a smile.
Mason: “Siiiigh. Alright Rolland.” Downs the stuff and grimaces, shuddering.
Jessi: Ruby looks at Hikaru, looks away, does a double take. “Wait.. yes, exactly. No more for you sweetie, you've had enough. You're gettin' as drunk as a weevil in a wine keg.”
Mason: He folds his arms like a kid and buries his head in it.
Chantry: Rolland proceeds to choke on the subpar whiskey Hikaru ordered in his haste. “YUCK!”
Jessi: Ruby turns to Armella. “No worries, Miss 'Mella! I know I need to clear my head sometimes too... And it's good to talk with... friends, and family...”
Chantry: “Hikaru, how many times must we go over this? Top shelf when drinking with Rolland, whatever you want with Rodrick, and this... swill... with Ruck...”
Mason: Hikaru mutters. “It wasn't for you Rolland.”
Jessi: “Well it ain't for you neither, now.” Ruby looks at you and rubs the back of her head.
Chantry: “Wasn't for you either, my friend... You have had enough about two glasses ago.” He nods at Ruby’s sentiment.
Mason: Hikaru grumbles under his breath again.
Chantry: “Armella, are you quite sure you wouldn't benefit from one of these? It will clear out all the cobwebs and fuzziness from you head.” He holds up a vial.
Jessi: “I agree, it was... very nice. Very well produced, I must say.”
Emily: “I think I will be fine. I should accept the consequences. As long as I don't drink as much as Hikaru does, I don't think the after effects will stay as long. But thank you.”
Mason: Grumbles some more, something about alcohol and a need for drink.
Chantry: “Fair enough. If you change your mind, just let me know.” He puts the vial back into his bag. “Hikaru, would this tea house happen to have cherry blossom tea?”
Mason: “Yeah, yeah. Get me some chrysantemum while you're at it and please, be polite to the matron.”
Chantry: “Polite... yes. I shall try. Do I... Do I raise my hand and wait for them to come to me, or do I go up to the counter...?”
Mason: “Raise your hand, what I mean is don't be condescending.”
Chantry: “Ah... yes. I shall do my best.” He raises his hand and waits, and in broken Wuxian orders the desired teas. “I hope that I said that right... Last time I tried to order cherry blossom tea I got smacked for speaking ill of the matron's daughter!”
Emily: “This language is quite odd, but it is nice to listen to.”
Mason: “You did alright.” Hikaru pulls his head out of his arms and stops pouting.
Chantry: Rolland visually relaxes at receiving confirmation that he didn't insinuate bad things about the daughter's night habits. “You were hoping I'd get smacked again, weren't you?”
Mason: “Just a little.” He smirks.
Chantry: “I know you too well, Hikaru...”
Jessi: Ruby chuckles at the banter between the two of you.
Chantry: “Hikaru, I'm glad you found a friend. Though I guess you technically found more than one.
I'm glad he crawled to my doorstep when he did... he was damn near dead! He's been my best friend in... oh my... years... many, many, years...”
Mason: He winces at the word friend and grumbles under his breath.
Jessi: “Near dead? Goodness Hikaru, what in the world did you get yourself into to be in that state?” She pauses, “Or perhaps I don't want to know…” she thinks, knowing it was improper to ask.
Mason: Hikaru’s shoulders sag and he looks very meaningfully at the alcohol in front of Rolland. But then a fire burns in his eyes. “My uncle did.”
Emily: Armella pushes a teapot and cup towards Hikaru.
Jessi: “I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring that up…”
Mason: He scowls but doesn't look angry AT Armella. He looks at the tea, and makes a face at it.
Chantry: Rolland stands up, bidding Armella and Hikaru a good evening. “Well Miss Ruby, I do believe we should be getting back to the airship. We are, after all, supposed to be in charge, according to the church. Well, you are...”
Jessi: “Oh! Right, right as rain. I'll be heading along too, then. We will see you..."new recruits" later.”
Chantry: Rolland walks to the door, once again muttering about the need to take his shoes off. “Seriously, the floor is made of wood. What harm can supple leather boots do to it?”
Jessi: Ruby stands up and tries to flatten out some of the wrinkles in her dress, picks up her purse, and turns to follow you back outside. “That is very true, seems an interesting custom to be sure!”
Chantry: “It is quite an annoyance, I assure you. Look at this outfit! It does NOT look right without the black leather boots!” He sits down on the stool outside and puts his boots back on, buckling them on and muttering about putting fingerprints on the polished silver buckles.
Jessi: Ruby chuckles as she watches you re-boot your feet. “It does look somewhat silly without them on, doesn't it?” She leans against the side of the tea house, and slips her shoes gracefully back on.
Chantry: He stands up and brushes the wrinkles out of his frock coat and pants, before straightening his top hat. “Well, shall we?” He gestures down the road with his cane, extending his arm to Miss Ruby.
Jessi: “I think we shall.” She smiles at the gentlemanly gesture, and somewhat shyly puts her hand on his arm as they make their way down the cobblestone road.
Chantry: He steps over a mud puddle, taking extra precautions to make sure his coat or boots don't get a speck of mud on them. “Blast this town, with all its mud holes and uneven cobbles!”
Jessi: “Even as a big city, it still feels so.. rural, ya know? Compared to back home I mean.” She looks up and down the street at the bustling activity, the shop vendors, and the children playing. “I'm sure to them it's quite grand, though...”
Chantry: He exclaims distastefully as a couple of children run past, splashing in the mud puddles, followed by Rolland shouting at them. “Bratty children! To think, that I spent good coin in your village, so you can... Ahem. Sorry, Miss Ruby. Forgive my outburst. Children are always messy, and I don't appreciate messes.”
Jessi: She gives you an interesting look. “It's quite alright. I think I have some boot shine in my bag aboard the ship, we'll fix those up quite well when we return. Cleanliness is a virtue, they do say...”
Chantry: “That they do...” His eyes wander from shop stalls to the next, as if looking for something. “Do you enjoy shopping, Miss Ruby?”
Jessi: She gazes around, intrigued by all the strange items for sale; somewhat familiar in places, but exotic nonetheless. “I must say, I do find a great joy in it. It's one of my preferred pastimes. You never know what you will come across, and what you might need later on the road... it's best to be prepared, and why not have fun doing so?”
Chantry: “Quite... however, I'm afraid one of the items I need has eluded me for quite some time...” His eyes still wandering.
Jessi: “Has it? I can keep a lookout for you, I do have somewhat of an eye for unique items...”
Chantry: “Perhaps... I suppose... Maybe... yes. Another set of eyes might be helpful... I'm looking for a ring. I lost it, long ago... It is made of the finest silver, engraved with swirling shadow and has a large black gem set into it.”
Jessi: “I see...” Her eyebrows furrow, attempting to picture it in her mind. “What type of black gem would you say it had? Obsidian, pearl, onyx, jasper...? Cut any specific shape?”
Chantry: “I'm afraid the type of stone eludes me... It is cut in a square shape, with a bevel on each side creating an elevated face on the stone itself.”
Jessi: “How interesting... it sounds very exquisite.... Do you recall when you last saw it, or... perhaps where?”
Chantry: “Unfortunately, I do not. I last remember it being in a box at my shop, but that was a number of years ago. I fear it was stolen, but I continue to hold hope that it will turn up.”
Jessi: “I see... I will do my best to keep an eye out for it. It is precious to you, I take it?”
Chantry: “It is... the woman I grew up calling Mother gave it to me, and told me that I must give it to... well, that part isn't important, as I myself still aren't sure whom I am to give it to... but I desire to have it back in my possession desperately...”
Jessi: She thinks a moment... pauses in walking and takes out a gray, fabric notebook from her purse, along with an ivory pen. “Since it is of such import... I will do my best to remember what you've told me, that I might assist you in finding it.”
She jots down all the details provided on a clean page, even sketching a small, uncanny version of what you described to her. “Should I come across it I will do my best to get it to you” She smiles, and slips the notebook back in her bag.
Chantry: “I... I will also tell you, no matter the temperature, the ring feels cold. No matter how warm, the ring remainns cool to the touch. I know not why...”
Jessi: “That is very unique indeed. I suppose certain material may do that? Or...” She trails off, and questions the thought in her mind--magical, perhaps?
Chantry: “My mother said more would reveal itself as the true owner became known to me, but I haven't the slightest idea who that is... I just know that my mother left me the task to return it, and I wish not to fail her wishes.”
Jessi: “I see...” She watches you, trying to read your expression. “I may have some contacts back home who might be good leads to start with. I will let you know if I hear any wind of it.” She looks around at the stalls as we pass by. There are a great number of beautiful jewels here, but none quite like you described.
Chantry: “Quite... That's how it is nearly every town or city I go to. Many, many beautiful pieces of jewelry, but none are the ring I seek...”
Jessi: “Well, hopefully it will surface someday. I take it that… your years in life, similar to Azandar's, is much longer than my own, but I suppose for the time I am here, I can help. I enjoy helping... where I can.”
Chantry: “Age is... relative. It's difficult to explain.” He scrunches his face as if trying to figure out how to put thoughts together.
He stops at a stall and sees a small blown-glass crystal rose. “This is quite beautiful.. Something like this may come of use to me later.” He signals the shop owner and after a few minutes of attempting to communicate, purchases it and wrap it up carefully.
Jessi: She contemplates what you said all the while, unsure of how old you might be, or how to think in terms of living so many years. “I suppose it's like.. how us humans feel, looking at other creatures? Insects.. plants.. everything has its season?”
Chantry: “The best way I might describe it is like this... A tree starts life as an acorn or seed, and then grows into a sapling relatively quickly... once it becomes what we call a tree, that's the end of it's growing cycle, but it also isn't... it may grow to be hundreds of feet tall, but it is still just a tree...”
“Just because the tree has grown old and tall, doesn't mean it has changed from a tree, and yet, it is different from that of the tree growing nearby from the acorn or seed fallen from the larger tree.”
Jessi: Ruby walks with you slowly, thinking about that and trying to imagine being the said tree. “That's an incredible way to look at it.. it helps give me some perspective. Is that.. difficult then? Being a tree, and watching time pass around you?”
Chantry: “Throughout the tree's life, it has many uses. while it is young, it is springy enough it can be used to make a bow. As it grows older and larger, it loses that springy capability and becomes rigid in its ways, and hard to bend with the wind, but it can now be used as shelter or shade. It can grow larger still, though, and provide even more of the aforementioned. Once it gets to a certain size, it could even be used to make a great vessel, allowing travel around the world. Though the tree as we know it must be killed to do so, doesn't mean the wood harvested from it has no use or function. That is how age is to me.
Time does pass around me, yes. At times, it is like being a stone in a mighty river. Fast, unforgiving, and harsh. At other times, it is like a babbling brook. Slow, calming, and peaceful...”
Jessi: Ruby remains quiet for some time, pondering your words. The implications of such a difference in life, and how it can shape the goals, dreams, and focus of a being; creating a difference in perspective regarding what truly matters during one's life.
“I must say, I feel I've learned a lot today. About y'all... about, well... well just, a lot of things.” She gets quiet again.
Chantry: “It's quite alright, Miss Ruby. Rolland is much more personable than Rodrick, albeit not the most comfortable for him... That must also cause a bit of confusion... That each of Rakk's forms has a different name, personality, and traits...
Jessi: “What makes you feel so uncomfortable being Rolland?”
Chantry: “Exactly that. Rolland is very open and quick to share. Rodrick is more reserved and protective of the secrets we all hold.”
Jessi: She looks shyly forward as they walk. “It's.. not too strange I guess. Everyone has different faces they show to others. I guess yours is just more, personified, that's all.” She thinks. “I can see how your different forms conflict but, also complement each other. It's interesting to study, really... even if I'm still getting used to it.”
Chantry: “Think of it this way.” Rolland grabs a pair of silk gloves and a pair of lace gloves from a nearby stall, paying for them. “Your hand is Rakk. The current glove you have on is Rodrick. Same on the inside, but different on the outside and has different uses from such a glove as this.” He holds up the silk glove.
“This silk glove is Rolland. Smooth, comforting, and inviting.” He removes the glove Ruby is wearing and replaces it with the silk one. “And this lace glove, is Rhys. You've not met him yet. He is... odd.” He replaces the silk glove with the lace one. “Still your hand underneath, but different on the outside.”
Rolland once again changes gloves on Ruby's hand, replacing her original glove back on her hand, before placing the silk and lace pairs of gloves in her hands. “Lots of metaphors, I know. Maybe the physical gloves can help make sense of it all.”
Jessi: “I see... no no, the metaphor is not lost on me, I promise.” Her eyes get kind of distant for a moment, then come back to the present. “So.....” She smirks. “Which glove would Ruck be?”
Chantry: Rolland lets out a loud laugh. “Ruck would be more like a tattered, dented, rusty, beer stained armored gauntlet... Hard, to the point, and stinks of alcohol and bad choices.”
Jessi: Ruby giggles jovially. “I will say, he gave me a bigger fright than a fox in a hen house... when I first met him, I mean. I just...” She keeps laughing. “I just remember seeing him rushing toward us, and poor Hikaru was...” She covers her mouth from the laughter. “I'm sorry, it--it was terrifying in the moment, but looking back it was quite humorous.”
Chantry: He chuckles loudly. “Yes, Ruck is much like a fox in a hen house... Or a Buffalo in a tea shop. Causing a mess with every step, but not meaning to.”
“And Ragnar would be a thick pair of leather working gloves... charred, scratched, scarred, and not pretty, but still effective and useful. You haven't met him either. He's quite the character.”
Jessi: “Hmm... is that so?” Well I look forward to meeting them... someday.” She smiles. “New meetings are best when the time is right.”
Chantry: “Very true. Rakk has use for all the forms he uses, but they, like gloves, are only used when needed. Rodrick is the preferred glove, merely because he is the most comfortable and safe.”
Jessi: “A nice, pair of comfortable gloves is often best for the day to day... I can agree with that sentiment.”
Chantry: “It's a good one, inn'it? Speaking of gloves, as I have no need for those.” He gestures to the silk and lace gloves in Ruby's hands. “You may keep them. Please accept them as a gift, a token of new friendship.
Jessi: Ruby looks down, admires the Wuxian silk and lace, and gives you a truly genuine smile. “Thank you... I appreciate your willingness to be a friend to me. I...” Her face becomes somewhat downcast. “I understand I've been somewhat a bother on this trip, I've been very out of my element. I apologize for anything I've said, or might say, in ignorance. I will do my best to improve, and be a good ally and friend to you in return.”
She smiles sheepishly again. “Well, to you.. and to Rodrick.. and even to Ruck. And to the rest of your family I've yet to meet.”
Chantry: “Well, depending on which glove is on at the moment will depend on how we react. Unfortunately when Rodrick is the glove, Rolland and the rest are mere spectators, in a way. That I have no idea how to explain. The others know what's happening, but can't interject or effect the situation.”
Jessi: Ruby nods in understanding. “Unless Rodrick is meant to switch with them, given the situation?”
Chantry: “Quite right!” He inclines head and raises a small flask pulled from a jacket pocket. “Now you're getting it! Cheers!” He takes a small drink from his flask.
Jessi: “I'm glad! I mean, that I'm understanding better, and all. Thank you for the very thorough explanation.”
Chantry: “My pleasure, Miss Ruby. Well, we have arrived back to the airship, and since it's still here I'm going to hypothesize that Alastair didn't fly away with it or burn it down. After you, Miss...”
Jessi: “It seems so. Perhaps I can extend a bit more trust to him as well, I dare say he's at least more trustworthy than that brother of his...” She steps up onto the ship ahead of you. “I will find you that boot polish as well... I know it's here somewhere.”
Chantry: A loud noise followed by grumbling and cursing is heard from near the dock. “Damn him!!” With each word there's the sound of clothing being punched or shoved into a bag. “Why. Does. He. Need. So. Many. Clothes!?” Rolland's bag comes flying over the railing, overstuffed with coattails and a boot top hanging out from it, followed by a top hat being tossed over the railing. An annoyed looking Rodrick walks onto the airship. “Hi, Ruby...”
Jessi: She blinks, somewhat in shock, but collects herself as quickly as she can. “H-hi Rodrick! Welcome back. I mean, you've been here of course, just.. Right. Anything I can help you with?”
Chantry: “Not necessarily. I know Rolland will chew me out if I leave his clothes like that, so I should probably clean them and hang them up... I'm guessing by the overpowering taste in my mouth he was drinking again...”
Jessi: “Um... just a bit... we all went down to the tea house.” She puts her hand to her forehead a moment. “I think we all got a little carried away, I'm sorry.”
Chantry: “May I ask you something...?” He sees the gloves in Ruby's hands.
Jessi: “Oh!” She looks down at them, then back at Rodrick. “Y-yes?”
Chantry: “That moron told you his glove theory, didn't he? About how each shapeshift is a different glove?”
Jessi: “Um...” She looks down at the gloves again. “He did say something akin to that, yes... I thought it was a very nice analogy? I mean! Not to... simplify the complexities of such a unique gift, I just mean...” She furrows her brow, not quite sure what she means at the moment...mentally blames it on drinking too much earlier, although she's sure that has passed now.
Chantry: “Oh no, it's a good theory. Mostly accurate, but Rolland leaves an important fact out... Rakk is damaged. He uses other forms as his face because he himself is broken... That's why I am the main face.”
Jessi: “Oh...” She looks at her hands, which have their normal gloves on. “I see... I'm sorry to hear that he...is like that. It... was still nice meeting him too though, if.. only once.”
Chantry: “Rolland seems to think that I'm the damaged one.”
Jessi: “No, I.. well.. no one is perfect. I suppose every face might have its flaws. I mean! Just.. people in general, you know?”
Chantry: “Oh I know what you mean. Each of us has our flaws. Rolland is too open. Rhys is just... weird. Ruck is too animalistic and simple. Ragnar... well, he's not so bad... just quirky... and Rakk... like I said, I think he's the worst of all of us. He's like a raw nerve.”
“And... me... I'm too angry.”
Jessi: “Rakk... Rolland said all of--well, you--were part of him. Would you say otherwise? Are you all separate from him?”
Chantry: “Rolland is right, and wrong... PART of each of us makes up Rakk... at least that's my theory.”
Jessi: “I see...” She blushes and puts the gloves nicely in her purse. “I um... I'm sorry if you feel I learned too much, with Rolland being so... well, open about everythin’. I do appreciate you--the whole you--that is here with us at this time.”
Chantry: “While I might be annoyed at Rolland for telling you those things, I guess... as much as I don't want to... I need to thank him as well. You should know those things, and they probably made more sense coming from him than me. So, in that aspect... I'll do my best not to hate him... for now.”
Jessi: “I appreciate that... and I'll do my best to keep your information in confidence, or whatever you so wish. As crazy as it seems…” She looks out at the city. “I think it's good we're all here together. It just feels... like it needs to be this way, somehow. Which seems strange, I wouldn't have said that a month ago. We're all so different, like oil and water.”
Chantry: “Oh no, that's a terrible mix! Oil and water don't do anything but stop the oil from burning properly! And damn straight... Sa'ar has served me well... Let's hope you never have to fight alongside anyone but me... or maybe that troublemaker Ruck...”
Jessi: “Sa-ar?” Ruby tries to repeat the name, to make sure she got it right.
Chantry: “You got it... It's one of the only fond memories I have of my Father... him telling me stories of a great warrior who sacrificed everything to save the world.”
Jessi: “Really? That sounds like an interesting story, I'm not sure...if... that I've ever heard that one? Would you mind telling me sometime?”
Chantry: “I'm sure Rhys would, when you meet him... he's the story teller. I'm just the one who breaks things.”
Jessi: Ruby laughs a little. “Fair enough... when I meet Rhys, I will be sure to ask.”