Bermuda Hex Rp Forum

Where : Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Peri, The Gang As usual, and as her mother had always said, Peri felt much better after a good night's sleep. She said goodbye to the little Party Tree that Khord had bought her (he was so nice !) as well as the sapling in the front garden before following in her group's tracks. After more travel than she liked to do alone (she encountered a weasel on the way that made her very suspicious for a minute, but she reassured herself that DD had in fact been eaten up by TikTik and therefore was probably not lurking around in mustelid form) she found herself in the camp which was unmistakably theirs--it was hard to miss the giant bug-guy. She got a very brief, very confused summary of what she missed which made her worry passionately for Khord, and she hurried off to the path that he had supposedly taken...and found him apparently doing his best to avoid a loudly hollering Scooter.  (2 Perception check to not walk into it, 15 Wis save to not just barge in and start blustering) She opened and closed her mouth again, before awkwardly inching her hand into the air and waiting to be noticed. 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Khord, Donny, Peri Feeling the healing aura close Khord's split lip, he couldn't help but think of the waste of magic it was on something so small. Seeing her almost running away embarrasedly, he couldn't help but shake his head, 'she IS gone.' He felt a little sad and a little relieved at the same time and that made him feel disconcerted. After putting on his armor he chose a direction and walked for a while. Donny came up to him. He looked at Donny a little confused when Donny talked about waiting for Khord. Getting a bit angry in response to Donny. "I said it would be later. We can talk about this when we aren't about to risk our lives facing demons and undead and who knows what. And For the record I don't dislike you Farmboy, you are a good kid. You just need to learn people have buttons you don't touch... EVER." He looks at Donny waiting for a second before continuing. "We can talk about this when we get back to regalport." Not noticing the small figure behind him, ripples begin to form around his feet as he Jumps, almost like he is flying, he lands on a large branch and disappears into the forest. After being reasonably sure Khord lost Donny he dropped down to the forest. He walked and walked until he lost track of time. He found a small tree that looked similar (he thinks) to the party tree with a stream flowing by that he bought for Peri to cheer her up. Thinking about Peri he grimaced, knowing she would probably raise hell next time she saw him, he hadn't exactly been on his best behavior with the 'interns' and he didn't even act the smallest bit like a leader. And they would definitely exaggerate the encounter with those monsters, he was fine and it wasn't a problem. He removed his armor, leaving on only his tank top and pants. As he uncomfortably waited he pulled off a branch from a nearby tree and began carving. Without thinking He carved several figures, each one becoming more detailed as the time passed until he finished up each one. He came to as he heard a branch snap and looked at the figures he carved for a bit. He noticed that he had carved people he had never done before, including some of the old group members. He wondered why he would do that as he looked up and called out, "Figured it was about time for you to find me."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Khord, Donny, Peri Peri's jaw dropped a little as Khord made an inhuman leap into the treetops and sped away. "Oh, wow, holy shit. I've never seen him do that when I wasn't in a life-or-death situation before. I don't know if it's cool or just--" she stuttered to a pause as she noticed that Scooter was still there. (8 Wis save to not be a dick ) "What the hell , buddy? It's not easy to piss off Khord, that's a fucking skill right there!" The kid's expression changed, and she wondered if he was gonna do something, but she ran off in the general direction Khord had disappeared to before he got the chance. And quickly realized that she had no idea how the hell to find him. She sat down in the middle of the loam, biting her thumbnail in thought. She had a vague thought about the Message spell, and Prestidigitation, and Druidcraft, and spent a few minutes chewing on her lips and drawing half-thought-out patterns in the air as she tried to figure out how you'd conjugate the Primordial for that spell before giving it up as a lost cause. Finally, she fell back on what she usually fell back on, and took a moment to try and relax, and connect at the world around her, and ask a favor of her best Friend. Without being fully conscious of it she found that she was walking through the trees again, slowly but with no tension, and when she blinked back to full awareness it was to a break in the trees caused by a winding river. Beside the river was a half-grown elf-willow tree, and beside the tree was Khord.  "Figured it was about time for you to find me," he said, and she made a face at his back, strangely skinny without the armor around it. "Hey, you're lucky I found you at all, you crazy squirrel! What would you do without me?" She settled in beside him on the bank, a respectful distance away, and while she didn't reach out to touch him she did grab one of his laid-aside pieces of armor and turtle'd herself tightly around it. See him try and run off without that! "You okay there, buddy?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik "Are you sure? I feel bad - this is the second time you've fallen already today. " Aurielle was giggling again, so she seemed fine apart from suddenly being on the ground. She had even somehow saved the omelet - which was pretty impressive. There was no mud around here, but Aren still felt guilty about making her fall into the dirt. Her face was peeking around the plate she was holding up, revealing her bright smile. A few strands of hair had come free of her braid, reminding Aren of a similar sight he had seen earlier that morning. He felt himself blushing slightly again. Man, he was really out of sorts today. He had moved to protect Aurielle instantly, without even thinking about it. Not that he would have done differently if he had  thought about it, but still. The fact that it had felt so natural was...he didn't really know what to think about it. The only other time he had done something like that had been back then - back when he had first found someone he wanted - needed  - to protect.  Aren shook his head to clear his thoughts. Now wasn't the time for that. He glanced back at Tik Tik, who seemed to be looking greedily at Aurielle's proffered omelet. He still didn't trust the creature, but the fact that he had at least talked to him yesterday in the cave meant that he clearly was not just some beast - it was worth giving him a chance, at least. Moving back, Aren carefully relaxed. He released the grip he had on his knife, though he still kept his hand near it. "Oh. Uh. Did you want food? Um - I'm sure Donny probably made you some, too. He was over by the pond last time I saw him, talking to Khord." Aren had no idea if Tik Tik actually understood what he was saying, but it seemed like he was listening, at least.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri Khord picked up a figure and rotated it in between his fingers. "First of all I am not a squirrel, they move better than I can. Second, I would probably get lost." Forcing a half-hearted chuckle to try and lighten the air, he examined it and noticed it was Peri sitting on a branch, wondering why he carved the old group he absentmindedly dropped it and replied, "Just had Donny poking around where he shouldn't have been, so I guess today could have been worse." Picking up another larger piece he shoved it into his pocket before grabbing the figurines of Cicero and Cassandra and, taking a deep breath, walked towards Peri. "How about you, feeling any better today?"  As Khord leaned down to hand her the figures he watched her face for the signs that always popped up, the pity, maybe some disgust, maybe the other weird emotions that he seemed to spark in people.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren (& Tik Tik) Tik Tik glanced down at the tiny dagger that was being offered in defense and made a quicknote, "This one doesn't like me, or fears me" Tik Tik absentmindedly chittered aloud as he eyed the being. He crouched down to make his level equal and gestured to the dagger, then back to his chest and the wrote in the dirt "STAB? I DO NOT FEAR DEATH" He leveled cautiously and brought his blood axe before himself and placed it in the dirt. He took a long stare at him, In my homeland drawing a blade means combat but these folk know differently. He turned slightly and lowered himself to a full squat to be at Winglady's level and chittered excitedly  and shook his head "thank you!" He brandished a small tan dagger and traded it for the food. Tik Tik tore into the egg material with his secondary hands and with his primary hands began drawing a square in the dirt around him making sure the axe was on the outside.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Khord, Peri "Much better, thank you!" Peri shifted around to be sitting on his armor rather than curled around it and held up her hands to accept whatever he was handing her. She hadn't seen him unarmored this close before and winced a little, because it looked like he should be hurting, but there was no smell of rot or decay and clearly he was moving fine so she figured he was doing okay. There were fresh scrapes on his callused hands, though, and as he handed her the trinkets she concentrated on bleeding a little healing energy into his knuckles, just enough to smooth over the worst of the abrasions. He pulled his hands back quickly and she had to bite her tongue to not say something, because if she'd learned anything by now she'd learned that Khord was a private person. The figurines were much bigger in Peri's small hands and she turned them this way and that to look at them in the dappled shade of the elf-willow. "Oh! It's Cicero! And Cass, right? Hey, you're pretty good at this, Khord." She made the figures bow to each other, then dropped a little kiss on each head. "Yeaaahhh...I think maybe Scooter means well but he sure does poke a lot. And he tries to act like he's the only adult in the room when clearly he is a tiny baby."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren (& Tik Tik) Auri was still incredibly new to this crew and even still fairly new to adventuring and being exposed to the world as others knew it outside of the secluded world view of her little temple, but Tik-Tik for as strange as he was did not frighten her. To her he was just another oddity in the world and as he had never made motion to try and harm her he was one of the oddities that she felt she needed to protect and care for. She had looked up to Aren and Tik-Tik standing over her and watched their exchange trying to read the situation between the two of them and seeing Tik-Tik start to become defensive right before he started eating, Auri rolled over and placed her plate onto the rock she had been sitting on moments ago. She wasn't ready to clean egg bits out of her hair today, but as her eyes traced down to the writings on the ground Auri gasped, "Tik-Tik, no Aren meant no offense, he was just trying to protect me! You surprised us!" Auri scrambled to her knees waving her hands back and forth gesturing as he presented the axe to Aren and then the dagger to her. She could tell the difference between the presentation of these items by his body language, the axe being a warning and the knife being one of maybe an exchange, but she didn't understand why he was creating a drawn box around himself. Someone had mentioned a box around him before, but she had never thought to ask why. "Tik-Tik, you don't have to give me anything, keep that. I just want you to have the yummy omelette that Donny made for us. I want to make sure you've eaten something good for you." She moved her hand slowly and deliberately towards the axe not daring reach for it or touch it and gestured to it. "Tik-Tik, Aren means you no harm, I promise." She then slowly moved her hand towards the lines Tik-Tik had created around him and asked softly in a warm voice. "Forgive me if I am being nosy but I wish to know why you draw this around yourself." 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri Seeing Peri wince, Khord sighs a little on the inside. "That's good you are feeling better. He is a good kid, but he should go home, he is going to get hurt." Heading back to the stump he was sitting on and grabs the other few figures. Picking up one that was holding a spear. He looked at Siegfried as he thought about the past and Aurielle popping into his head. Reaching up to squeeze the ring on a chain under his shirt. "Why did you choose the girl as our healer? There were plenty of others to choose from."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri "To be fair, he could get hurt at home too." Peri balanced little Cicero and Cass on her knees. "Why Auri? Hmm. Well, she knows how to work in a team--you saw at the tryouts, right? She kept a mediocre partner up for a long time...and we're not mediocre, so she should do even better with us!" She tapped Cass' tiny wooden mouth thoughtfully. "I hated being the only healer we had. If I were better then maybe we wouldn't have gotten hurt so bad, or lost so many people...I never really studied this stuff, you know? The only healing spell I know I learned from my grandmother. Just a little thing for when us kids got skinned knees and twisted ankles. I didn't train at a temple like a cleric, I just...read books, and listened, and imitated, and sometimes things happened and sometimes they didn't. Figuring things out the hard way. That nice old man who led the mage guild in Tantamar, the little book he gave me...it was all baby stuff, to him, probably, but it was stuff I'd never learned before." Khord wasn't looking at her, but tiny Cass and tiny Cicero were, so she tucked them away in a pouch. "I don't wanna be the best we've got, you know? You deserve better than that. Even the interns deserve better than that, and so does the prince. I'm better at killing stuff than healing stuff, anyway. Probably better to embrace it, I guess."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Clearly Tik Tik was not impressed with the puny weapon Aren had on hand. Not terribly surprising considering the giant battleaxe he was toting around, but it made Aren feel a little better to not be completely defenseless, at least. Tik tik then was scratching in the dirt for a second, making...Words? In common?  "Stab?...I do not...fear death"  Aren read the words as they were written. As he realized what Tik Tik was saying, he smiled - a little sadly. Well, at least he knew a little better where things stood. Tik Tik was indeed intelligent - but he wasn't smart. There was no point in explaining anything, though, so all Aren said was, " Ah. I see."  As Aurielle came between them a little desperately, Aren realized what he had almost done. He felt a quick surge of embarrassment, quickly taking his hand away from the dagger. He lifted his hands in what he hoped was a placating manner. "I'm sorry. You kind of snuck up on us, so you startled me. I don't intent to fight you, here." Though he didn't really feel like sticking around after that he didn't have a good excuse to leave. As Aurielle asked her question Aren couldn't help having a little curiosity, himself. He looked towards Tik Tik, still a little cautiously but without any hostility now.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Winglady jumped between to save the daggerman... is this fleshling courting? She is defending her mate.. explains to hostility but Tik-Tik is outsider race.. Tik Tik kept placing bits of omelette into his mouth as he watched Winglady talk. He visibly paused eating as he glanced down to the square around him, he took out the helmet of talky talks and placed it over his head. The act of reaching into someone else's being was still very unpleasant to him but this must be what the psions back home did when they were in their communion Am i evolving..? wait no it's just the helmet, tricksy magics. As he felt out he slowly made contact with Wind lady's mind and spoke directly into her thoughts "I do not leave the square, it makes people more comfortable when i'm caged" even as he said it a sliver of confusion was driven into his mind Like an animal, I am an animal. Tik Tik slowly placed the plate outside the box all the while keeping a keen eye on daggermate, then he saw his chance and struck forward giving daggerman a quick "highfive".  -rolled to strike 24 to hit AC- DD used to love those A happy chitter escaped him as the happy memories of playing games with DD . As he recoiled he scratched in the dirt "HERE?" This whole time he never made an attempt to look or grab for his axe laying in the dirt beside him. 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri "Yeah but at home you have people and things there to comfort you." Noticing Peri feeling down Khord stood up and headed over to Peri, ruffling her hair and gently saying, "You have done better than good enough for us. I don't deserve much but the last group was good because of you and you could pull this one together and make it even better than the last one. Don't worry too much about failing, just make the choices you think are good. The real secret to being a good leader is confidence." Handing the figure of his mentor, and maybe his hero too, to her, Khord pointed at it, "He taught me that. And you have both the charisma and the confidence, did you think I wouldn't hear about how you had talked your way out of jail time." He goes quiet for a second or two, letting out a sigh, and then places his huge hand on Peri's small shoulder.  "You are probably the best leader those kids can have, you care and you have enough fortitude to call them out when they mess up. And they listen to you." He hands her the figure of herself, laughing as she sits on a branch, swinging her legs. "now if you will give me a minute to put on my gear, I have been feeling so uncomfortable without it on." He begins to pick up his armor and put it on piece by piece, leaving the rest of figures where he dropped them earlier. With every piece that goes on he seems to become a bit more like himself that he normally portrays, a bit more confident and like a mountain that could weather anything without budging an inch, locking up the emotions back inside of him. Hoping the burden of other people's lives hanging on her decision doesn't hurt or break Peri.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Auri sat there on her knees watching Tik-Tik wondering who had possession of his new helm until he produced it and put it on. Moments after she felt a tingling creep up her spine as she felt him penetrate her mind speaking to her directly. His response made her usually cheery face fall as a look of sadness from understanding came across it. "Please forgive me Tik-Tik, but I don't want you 'caged' when you are with me." Her words were soft, but they sounded as if she might cry if the seriousness of her words weren't so strong. "You don't make me uncomfortable, you have as much right to stand beside me as an equal as anyone else with us does." She let out a soft laugh, "maybe more even. I mean you contribute more than I do." Auri leaned forward going on all fours as she reached out and brushed the line away, obscuring it. "You are one of us, and by the power of my god I vow to stand by you to the best of my ability Tik-Tik so long as you protect me too." She looked over to Aren, "The same goes for you. As long as this group will have me I will try my very best." Watching Tik-Tik strike out at Aren she tilted her head first in confusion but then in realization as Tik-Tik began to chitter in what sounded more like happy chitters to Auri. "Tik-Tik did you... Did you just high five?" Auri's mind flooded back to the children in the orphanage and the games they used to play and that was the only thing she could think he was doing because his movements didn't read aggressive to her. He didn't reach for his weapon per se attacking. Auri held out her hands with her palms out to Tik-Tik as an open invitation to repeat the action hoping she was right.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Aren watched as Tik Tik took out that magic helmet and put it on. He gathered that Tik Tik spoke something to Aurielle as he watched her eyes well up with tears. A second later, he felt the same odd sensation that he had last night, when Tik Tik had first put the helmet on and spoken to his mind. The feeling was decidedly...odd. As Tik Tik repeated the answer to Aurielle's question in his mind, Aren understood Aurielle's tears - though he didn't share her reaction. He relaxed a little more, smirking, "You know that's not actually a cage right?"  Aurielle seemed to be responding to Tik Tik as well - she was talking about how Tik Tik was perfectly normal and they were all equal. Aren didn't exactly agree  about all that, but it was true that they were part of the same party. They needed to protect each other if they were going to survive. That included himself and Tik Tik, whatever they may currently be feeling about each other.  He thought it was a little unnecessary for Aurielle to make a vow like that, though. It went without saying that they would be protecting each other, after all. Even so, a small warm feeling went through him as he heard her include him, as well - though she clearly intended to include the whole party. "Well, ah, of course. We're happy to have you Aurielle - and I'll protect you as best I can." Then, as Aurielle was erasing the scratched "cage" Tik Tik suddenly surged forward, slapping Aren's upraised hand before he could even react. Tik Tik then retreated back as quickly as he had left it. Belatedly Aren recoiled from the sudden movement, left hand again reaching for his dagger. "What the -- What in the Nine Hells was that?!"  Aren's head swiveled back and forth from Tik Tik to Aurielle and back. Despite the sudden slap, it didn't look like Tik TIk was attacking - he hadn't reached for his weapon, after all. Tik Tik was chittering loudly again. He looked...Happy? Aren was completely baffled.  "Was...Was that a joke??"  Aren could barely believe what had just happened. He blew out a long breath, one hand falling to his side and the other pinching the bridge of his nose. He found himself muttering a few choice words he had learned from Elaris under his breath. " Traako ... Don't do that again, please."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik As Winglady began getting upset in front of him, he cocked his head quizzically, This is new, what's this strange emotion. "I'm glad you don't find me uncomfortable, there's no reason to apologize. What do you do? I don't know what people do. Missus Peri uses scary magics that hurt" Pushing himself back slightly as winglady brushed away the square he pulled himself close and stared. After it was completely erased he slowly stretched out his legs and starfished sighing happily.  He continued chittering excitedly "YES YES GAME" He contacted Alen solely and whispered "It's not nice to swear at friends"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Aren cocked an eyebrow at Tik Tik's admonishment. That was almost as surprising as Tik Tik playing a trick on him.   "Well. I wasn't exactly swearing at  you."  Aren replied.  "Just...don't surprise me like that again."  He took a couple deep breaths in an attempt to calm down a little.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Auri looked to Aren startled a bit by his outburst, "he wants to play a game. He means no harm." Looking back to Tik-Tik she tilted her head then sat back a little and smiled. "I give out the healing. I make you feel better when the enemies hurt your body." She glanced down to her hands and sighed. I just hope I can be good enough, she thought to herself. "My magic is good for us."  Auri glanced to Aren with a look of slight confusion on her face unsure of the bits she was missing but she shrugged it off and turned to Tik-Tik. "Tik-Tik come find me later and we can play games when we aren't fighting the enemies.... And no cages, no more." She went to stand up a little unsteady on her feet at first. 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik (see Rowan's next post for Tik Tik's comments - post edited for chronological consistency) Aren turned his upraised eyebrow to Aurielle. "Yeah. I gathered that. I just wish he would be a little less...startling."   He grimaced as Tik Tik spoke into his mind again. "Excitable, huh? Maybe I am..." Now Tik TIk was doing some charade. Was that supposed to be him? Aren supposed it did look rather silly - but maybe that was just Tik TIk. A truly alien noise came from Tik Tik as he finished his show. Tik Tik then apparently decided to show off his armor, or something. Aren wasn't sure how hard Tik Tik was pressing that dagger in but it certainly wasn't going anywhere. "Um. Very Impressive, Tik Tik. I'll certainly feel better with you taking the blows." Was there a point to this?   As the strange conversation continued Aren realized with some alarm that he was starting to become used to the strange presence speaking into his head. Shaking his head to clear it, he addressed Tik Tik again, "By the way Tik Tik if you're still hungry Donny will probably have more food."  Aren sighed and mopped his face with his hand, suddenly feeling drained. Apparently Aurielle was feeling slightly out of sorts, as well. Aren noticed her wobble slightly as she was trying to get up. He moved to steady her "Woah, there. You sure you're OK?" At Tik Tik's final comment he felt his cheeks heat yet again. Coming up with no good way to answer his declaration Aren decided to ignore it, focusing instead on Aurielle.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik She felt a little light headed and put her hand out snagging Aren's shoulder. She shook her head and waited a moment hoping the feeling would pass. "I'm sorry I don't know what came over me. I'm ok really." She took a deep breath and attempted to let go of him and head back towards her tent. 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik This time as Aurielle put her hand on his shoulder, Aren could feel nothing but concern. She felt unsteady, even as she insisted she was fine. Aren wasn't willing to just let her try to carry on like that. He put his hand over hers as she tried to pull away, forcing her to continue using him as support.  "Oh, no you're not. You used a lot of power yesterday. You're probably just tired from that or something." He smirked playfully at her,  "You should have eaten the whole omelette. Here, come sit down, I'll see if Donny made some extra."  Aren guided her to a nearby chair and made sure she sat down before heading off to find Donny.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik "You're easily stressed daggerman, reminds me of DD. Very excitable" Tik Tik chittered as he spoke into Aren's mind in an attempt to show off his own language. In a mocking manner Tik-Tik jumped and grabbed at a invisible dagger to his side in order to impersonate his look of surprise when Tik-Tik high fived him. The closest thing to a chuckle came out of Tik-tik in the mention of hurting his body, he took out a tannish dagger and pressed it into his chitin, it didn't pierce and instead grinded into it. "I am born for battles, unlike those who wear armor. Thats why i take the front and will take the blows" his slightly confident demeanor dropped at the word "magic" an audible hiss escaping him. "Magic only causes issues.. but.. i trust winglady" He knew the que when he was being asked to leave and stood as winglady asked to find him later, "I am always around, always bored, always protecting" he began the process of standing as he noticed wing lady seeming unsteady, he reached out and steadied her "You need to rest, daggerman will protect you, as he is your mate correct?" Tik tik was stuck in the awkward place as they suddenly left him then decided to sit anyways. so he simply just stood watching the odd courtship that was unfolding before him.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik-Tik Unsteady on her feet and lightheaded she felt both Aren and Tik-Tik at her side immediately and looked up to them suddenly cheeks flushed and embarrassed. "Really I'm... " Her words trailed off as things began to spin a little and she allowed Aren to help her to a chair. "I'm sorry you guys." Tik-Tik's comment and question caught her off guard causing her to blush a deep red. "No, Tik-Tik," she let out a soft laugh though it was a little stained, "Aren and I aren't like that. He is a good protector though." She found herself in a chair looking up at Aren and Tik-Tik. "Yeah maybe you are right Aren." She watched him take off to find Donny and looked over to Tik-Tik. "Are you ok Tik-Tik?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik-Tik He shrugged, kicked at some stones and brought himself to her level, Tik-Tik hated this feeling. One that he has been ever growing since the lost of his friend DD, he couldn't explain his thoughts to someone else without feeling alien. I will try with this one "Asking Tik-Tik if he is OK Is a hard question, I know you mean mentally but Thri-Kreen aren't emotional beings, physically i'm at the peak of hunting and mating age. But me.. I've been lost since i left home. I have no home, not anymore " Tik Tik sat on the ground still resting at almost head height with Winglady his secondary hands fiddled and his primary hands wrote in Thri-kreen the name of his loved ones back home. "So by your terms no. but i still live don't I?... you on the other hand, whats wrong?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik Auri curled up in her chair her, her knees to her chest and her head resting on her arms. Her world was spinning less now that she was seated and her golden brown eyes watched Tik-Tik as he spoke into her mind. She studied his movements and the noises that he made trying to make note of them to better read him.  "I'm sorry you feel lost." Auri's fingers found a link of chain in her armor and she fiddled with it absently as she spoke with Tik-Tik. "It's hard to be away from home, harder still not having one to go back to." A sad smile played across her soft lips as her eyes became distant, her mind wandering to a time long since gone. "Home is far away, and I don't think I would be welcomed back there. You don't get to question the way of things where I am from." A soft sad laugh left her lips. "I suppose that is part of what drove some of us here. I'm not sure anymore what Home means to me, but I hope someday I can find it." Her eyes focused back on her companion and she sighed, "It is ok to not be alright. Just know that I am glad you are here with us. I am glad that you live." The metal ring shifted in her fingers absently still. "Probably what Aren said. I overdid myself last night and then falling into the water this morning, and I suppose I haven't cared as much for myself. Maybe I just need a nap." Auri reached out a hand to Tik-Tik, "please be patient with daggerman, I mean Aren, Khord and the rest too. They just don't understand you yet, but some day they will." Auri closed her eyes and let her hand fall feeling tired now.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik "Sometimes being on the road is better than home" Tik Tik lifted his left arms up and pulled at a section of his  to reveal a torn section of chitin. The distinct pain of the spear being driven through his side from behind still fresh in his memory despite it being years. Subconsciously his secondary arm wrapped around the cracked chitin.  He let out an odd chuckle and as much as he put an softer tone on his words "I understand the inability of questioning others all too well, I was seen as one of the weaker in my village but i will prove them wrong" Knowing Winglady was upset but unsure what to do he extended his primary arm and slowly patted her on the head "Home is where I'm welcome, I think I've found it. We'll find yours too" As she extended her hand Tik-Tik caught it before it fell, pulled her close and promptly lifted her holding the tiny being. "If you're sleeping you're going to your tent" He stood back to his full height and began striding towards the tents knowing where everyone slept by now.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny Aren wandered through the camp, looking for Donny. Idly, he wondered if Donny had even finished his conversation with Khord and come back by now. As he walked, Aren finally had a little time to think about the morning's events. A lot had been happening in a short amount of time, and Aren's thoughts were still disorganized.  First, Tik Tik. The giant bug-man had made a terrible first impression on Aren, literally eating DD right in front of him. He had shown a penchant for violence and an utter disregard for life when he had mercilessly killed their orc prisoner, as well. All of that, coupled with his inability to communicate, had led Aren to think the worst of Tik Tik. However, he had never actually threatened Aren - despite all of Aren's hostility towards him. He even seemed to have a fondness for joking around, as weird as that seemed. And he seemed to regard Aren and the rest of Bermuda Hex as a sort of pseudo-family, or something. All in all, Aren still couldn't bring himself to really be friendly with Tik Tik yet, but he thought he could at least trust him for now. Aren smiled a little to himself. The world was much bigger than he had realized, after all. Which brought him to the more complicated issue: Aurielle. Aren's face began to heat a little as he recalled the events of the morning. He didn't really know quite what to think about the young cleric. Well - she was around his age, so he could hardly call her young. She was certainly beautiful - her white hair, golden brown eyes and her cute little nose especially stood out as he saw her in his mind's eye, but the rest of her was lovely, as well. But Aren had seen beautiful women before without feeling what he had this morning. So what was it about Aurielle that was different? Aren couldn't explain why he felt such a need to protect her. The only other person he had felt like this for was Kyla... Aren tried to rack his brain, but couldn't come up with an answer. He shook his head slightly to himself. For now, it didn't really matter anyway. He knew why he was here - he had his mission and he couldn't afford to be distracted. Plus, the rational part of his mind knew that there was no way she felt the same way about him. If anything, he had probably been annoying her this morning, treating her like she couldn't take care of herself.  Aren finally spotted Donny not too far away, by himself near one of the campfires. Aren changed course to approach Donny. "Hey there, Donny! Hey, sorry to bother you but did you happen to have any more of those omelettes? Aurielle and I were still feeling a little hungry so I figured I'd see if there were extra. They were really good, by the way."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny Donny walked into camp with an rather serious, and perhaps a slightly upset one as well. As he approached there were a plethora of thoughts and words were shooting through his mind; mostly unpleasant ones. He was distracted walking, stumbling on some rocks and twigs every now and then, he barely noticed Aren't walk up to him. The only moment he realized his presence is when he began to speak. Donny quickly put back on his smile, even though it may have not been as bright as usual. "O really? I'm glad you liked. Ummm not really, I mean I got more ingredients to make it, but I kinda wanna save them. I'm unsure how long we'll be here so I wanna make sure it can last." Donny scratched the back of his head a little bit, and have an awkward chuckle.... "Hey... I'ma head into the dungeon. If anyone is looking for me let em know for me, will you?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aurielle, Aren, Tik Tik A sad smile had appeared on her face as she watched Tik-Tik show her his vulnerability and kindness, which she had not yet seen in him before. Before she fell away into the darkness, sleep overtaking her, she had taken in all the Tik-Tik had to say and show her, and for her it struck close to home causing her dream state to take her places she did not wish to return to. She did not fight him in the slightest as he took her falling hand and then pulled her into his arms. Auri wasn't small compared to say Peri, but by comparison to Tik-Tik her form was light enough even with the armor to be easily carried for a short distance. Her long braid of white hair swung freely from side to side as Tik-Tik carried her, her head rolled towards him resting against him. If someone felt her, her skin would be warm to the touch and it had flushed pink in her cheeks. At times, even in that short walk to her tent, her body twitched fitfully in his arms and it was clear her sleep was not restful as she fell deeper down the rabbit hole of her mind. As far as she had ever been told she'd been left at the temple orphanage as a baby, unwanted, no note or clues to where she may have come from. She was left with a blanket wrapped around her and a single copper piece, probably all the family who abandoned her could afford to give as charity for taking her, making her their problem.  Everything else was given to her by the temple, even her name. Over the years Aurielle had seen many children left in this manner, others had been brought to them or had been found wandering the deep forests that surrounded and protected the temple from the majority of outsiders. Everyone who grew up there received the same education, the same religious teachings, they were aware of other gods but the one they were to pray to was the old one and only him. It didn't matter who you prayed to before, this was your god now. Those who questioned the teachings were punished harshly and those that followed and showed promise were rewarded and some of them were brought directly into the fold. Those few were given greater teachings but also held far more secrets, and at first she hadn't noticed the changes in those who had been taken, but as she grew older and time went on she showed her own promise and they came for her too.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny Donny looked to be in a bad mood - Aren supposed that his talk with Khord hadn't gone well. Not all that surprising, given Khord's mood earlier. He put on a smile as he realized Aren was there, but anybody could tell he was pretty upset. Aren decided to play along with him - no reason to upset him more by digging here. He frowned a little at Donny's response, though. "Oh, is that so. Yeah ok - that makes sense. Don't want to run out, after all."  Nothing for it - he was going to have to get other food for Aurielle, then. The frown deepened as Donny declared he was going into the dungeon. "Um. Alone? I mean I know we pretty much cleared the first floor but you sure about that? That demon is still down there, I'm sure."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny Donny was grateful that Aren had not seen his foul mood, he didn't like to unload on others. So Donny kept his smile still scratching the back of his head. "Yea I know, I was gonna talk to the little guy. He seems pretty friendly, besides I wanted to see what other kinda items he's got. Beside he said his room was safe." Donny laughing some more when he finished talking. 

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny, Aurielle, Tik Tik? Donny's fake smile looked almost painful now. It was making Aren a little uncomfortable. Man, how badly had their conversation gone? "Yeah."  He began slowly, trying to keep the skepticism out of his voice. "All right, then. Be careful down there, all the same. I'll let Peri know where you went when I see her."  Donny's fake laugh was almost more painful than his fake smile.  Leaving Donny to his own devices, Aren started thinking about what he would bring Aurielle in place of more omelettes. He had seen some berry bushes ripening nicely over by the pond, but it would take an hour for him to go gather enough food to be relevant so that wasn't really an option. Well. Rations weren't exactly tasty but they would hopefully get the job done. Aren stopped by his tent quickly to grab a meal's worth of the rations he had stored there before heading back to where he had left Aurielle.  However, to Aren's dismay when he reached the area where he had left Aurielle he found her gone. Aren's began to panic as his mind immediately flashed back to a scene from a year earlier, when he had first found Kyla missing. He struggled to control his breathing. All right, calm down man. Deep breaths. Think!  Following his own direction, Aren took some deep breaths in an attempt to calm himself. After a minute or two of this his mind started working again. OK, OK think.   It's the middle of the camp, so it's impossible for someone to have taken her. No sign of a struggle either. She must have left for some reason, then. OK. Where would she go? She was feeling tired, so maybe her tent?  Having forced himself to calm down, Aren nodded to himself. His heart was still beating far too fast but as least his head was clear. He had a plan of action, too. He started heading in the direction of Aurielle's tent, walking perhaps a bit faster than normal. He thought he saw Tik Tik out of the corner of his eye but didn't see Aurielle with him so didn't pay him much mind.  Aren reached Aurielle's tent in short order. Moving had helped him calm down further, so he was able to stop himself from barging into the tent, instead stopping short and softly calling out "Aurielle? Are you there?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Donny, Aurielle, Tik Tik? Auri soon was placed by Tik-Tik within the safety of her tent. He had been gentle with her and placed her on her bedroll covering her up with a blanket before leaving her. Her sleep was fitful and she spent most of it tossing and turning. She spoke to herself in her sleep muttering bits and pieces, "be careful... Please no... "  A voice cut through the darkness of her dreams as she looked around she tried to follow the noise in her dreams running towards the familiar voice but dark tendrils of nightmare tried pulling her back. Unintelligible noises could be heard from her tent as her face was now buried in her pillow but she couldn't quite wake from her sleep.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren approached Aurielle's tent, he began hearing what sounded like moans coming from it. There were a few words scattered here and there but the majority of the noises were wordless. "Aurielle?" Aren called out to her again, but the moans and noises continued. Aren hesitated at her tent entrance. Should he wake her up? She had seemed pretty out of it earlier - she probably needed a little more rest before they went back into the dungeon. And Aren was certainly reluctant to enter her tent without her knowledge or permission. But, considering how much noise he was hearing she was probably having a nightmare. Aren was no stranger to nightmares himself, and he well recalled how he frequently wished to wake up once he was caught in one's grasp.  Swayed by the desperate sounds coming from Aurielle Aren decided to wake her up. He entered her tent - if his voice wouldn't do it hopefully he could at least shake her awake in short order. Upon entering he found Aurielle tossing and turning fitfully, face pressed into her pillow. She was sweating as well, clearly not gaining much benefit from her rest. Aren let out a soft sound of concern. He kneeled down next to her, putting his hand on her shoulder and gently shaking it. "Aurielle!? Aurielle wake up. You're having a nightmare."

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As she was pulled back into the darkness tendrils of charcoal smoke wrapped themselves around her yanking her back, suffocating her for a moment then the darkness was pushed away to the edge of her vision as she stood there, a younger version of herself wearing the robes of her temple. A shiver went down her spine as she looked down at her hands, then hearing a noise she turned around to find herself in a group of people in similar robes, some with small differences. "No.... no no no...." Auri mumbled in her fitful sleep starting to thrash. Her dream self saw the scene before her and her eyes went wide, "Not again..."  The robed figures stood around in a circle around as one of theirs was kneeling before them, a face she had grown up with, a face that now broke her heart. Auri unconsciously at first began repeating the song that had been sung to her when she was little to calm her and the other littles down as she tried to back away, though this nightmare would not allow her to retreat. Bits and pieces of broken song came though to her physical form and would be heard by anyone who was near enough to her sleeping form.  "Hope of morning...let darkness.... worth the fight" Her nightmare form tried to ride it out shaking her head trying to ignore the scene before her but it was as she had remembered, dark words, old words were said over her friend, they were summoning something, something she couldn't know was so dark and this girl, she was the vessel. It was unknown to Auri then, but she had been brought there to heal the girl if something went wrong. There were not many in the temple who were gifted in the healing arts and though she had very little power or experience at the time she was some of the best they had. But something did go wrong and as she looked down to her hands she swore she could see and feel the blood upon them. Looking up there was the girl, eyes a glow in a wholly unnatural way and she was right in front of her covered in blood, the same blood that was on her hands. The girl screeched letting out an unholy noise and it was then Auri could hear Aren's voice ringing through, causing distortion in her nightmare state. The girl's hand reached out to grab at Auri just as she felt herself ripped from the nightmare to awaken with a gasp, on her back unsure of where she was and with Aren over her his hand clutching her shoulder in what Aurielle could only assume was him trying to wake her.  Aurielle burst into tears not making much sense as she sobbed out, "I wasn't good enough. I couldn't stop her. I couldn't help them." By this point Auri had come to a sitting position and her face was in her hands as she openly wept in front of Aren. Any feverishness she had now broken with her nightmare and lightheaded feeling had now finally passed, but she would carry the scars of her past not on her skin like many of her new friends but deep in her heart hidden under a bubbly smile, under kind words of encouragement, under all gentle things she did. She wore a mask of saccharine sweet demeanor, all love, life and light but in all honesty she was just as hurt as the rest of them, she just normally hid it better.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren shook Aurielle she violently jerked away, eyes flying open. Aren could clearly see the fear in her eyes in the seconds before she realized where she was. She sat up and started crying, sobbing out,&nbsp; "I wasn't good enough. I couldn't stop her. I couldn't help them." Ah. A Memory nightmare, then. &nbsp;Aren thought. He was a little surprised - the cheery Aurielle didn't seem like she would have had any experiences which would have scarred her this deeply, but he guessed she just was able to hide them well - either that or she buried them as deep as possible... Aren had his own demons, but he had never been on this side of things before: having to try to console someone who clearly had significant mental trauma in her past. At a loss, he hesitated for a moment before awkwardly putting his arms around Aurielle in an attempt to comfort her.&nbsp; "Hey, you're ok here. You're safe." But Aurielle wasn't showing any signs of calming down soon. In desperation, Aren thought of the song that his mother used to sing to him to calm him down. The one she had been singing that day - right up to the moment she died. The song somehow always had a way of comforting Aren, even now when everything was gone. Aren knew he had a terrible singing voice, but began to sing anyway, hoping it would have the same effect on Aurielle. With his arms still gently around her, he softly began: " In the dark of the night I walk alone, pale light of the moon lighting my way Suddenly I thought I saw you there with me, sweetly sleeping in the soft glow of the night Without knowing I was still alone beneath the glowing moon I called your name hoping that I could find some rest with you But as I drew closer I realized I'd have to leave again to wander all alone evermore As I walk I remember your strength. How you always had a smile on your face. Though I know you are far, far away, my memories help me continue through the night Without knowing I was still alone beneath the glowing light I called your name hoping that I could find some rest with you I've always believed that one day I'd see you again So I continue to search evermore Through the storms and the lightning I am always searching for you Through the cold winter nights as I'm falling asleep There isn't a day I don't think about it All that I can do is hope that one day I will see you again I find myself wondering sometimes if I will suddenly find you right here by my side Though I know that such fantasies are nothing but mere dreams They give me the strength to go on Though I do not know how long I'll walk the moonlight all alone I know that I would gladly wander for eternity If it meant that in the end I could see you again So I can be with you evermore" As Aren finished he found his own eyes had teared up. Suddenly becoming aware of what he had just done, he quickly released Aurielle, embarrassed. (For melody/music used see&nbsp; <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bAPhU9YSIE" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bAPhU9YSIE</a> )

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aurielle came back into the world so confused and panicked, tears in her eyes and suddenly Aren's arms were around her as she sobbed her face in her hands. She could feel his warmth surrounding her and holding her close. At first she sobbed uncontrollably her body shaking, feeling so small and frail. His voice was far away at first and she only caught bits and pieces between sobs but as he continued his soft words became clearer and in his arms she trembled less. He could have been the most atrocious singer in the world but his song had a calming effect over her. There was no way for him to have known that music was one of the things that calmed her nerves but as she sat there in his arms while he sang he tense body seemed to relax a little at a time. By the time he had finished his song she was resting against him not completely calm, but no longer in hysterics. Her voice was small, barely audible but if he was listening her would hear her. "I'm ss..sorry Aren, you sshh shhouldn't have to see m..mm.. me like that." There was a tinge of sadness and shame in her voice as she sat there avoiding eye contact with him her mess of hair having fallen in her face the braid having come loose in her fitful sleep.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren sang he felt Aurielle slowly begin to regain control of herself. Not all at once, but slowly her sobs dwindled to miserable sniffles, which in turn began to die out. Aren felt her lean against him ever so slightly. Once he finished he heard her speak in an incredibly small voice - so soft that he could barely hear her. But, at least she had recovered enough to speak - a good sign. If her nightmares were like his at all she'd probably be fine now. Aren let out a small laugh in response to her words, smiling sadly in an attempt to lighten the mood a little. "It's ok, Aurielle. It's ok. I know what it's like to have nighmares, too. Don't worry about it - you look fine." &nbsp;He released her gently, one hand remaining on her shoulder as he gazed down at her. Her white hair that had been tied so tightly earlier had come loose while she was tossing and turning, falling to cover her face. Aren moved his hand from her shoulder to pat her on the head gently. She looked so fragile like this - perhaps because she was? Aren waited a moment, letting Aurielle calm down a little more before pulling away. Why had he come here again? Oh right - the food. "Um. Well. Sorry about barging into your tent like that - I heard you having a nightmare and figured you might need some help. Um. Anyway. Donny didn't have any food but I grabbed one of my extra rations." He took out the food he had brought, carefully laying it down in the tent next to Aurielle. "Here. I hope this helps you feel a bit better." Original errand completed and becoming more uncomfortable with the situation by the minute, Aren rose to go. He couldn't rise to more than a crouch in the small tent. He felt himself blushing again, even though Aurielle was stubbornly not looking at him. "Um. I'll stay right outside for a bit in case you need something, if you want. Unless you'd rather I leave?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle As she had calmed down listening to Aren sing Auri felt confused by everything that had happened today. Why were people being so kind to her? Aren had tried to help her so much today and even the very distant and broody Khord had come out of his she'll a bit so to speak and had allowed her use of his towel. Tik-Tik had been kind enough to carry her back to her tent and cover her up when she had start to feel ill. Even Donny was so kind as to make them all breakfast when he clearly didn't have to and now here Aren was again, in her tent being kind, offering her comfort and rations. Using her sleeve she wiped her face, her white locks of hair still obscuring it. His words were so gentle, she had stopped sobbing and she had composed herself a bit. She wasn't past what she had saw in the nightmare but now she was trying hard to push down those feelings to at least a manageable level, maybe she wouldn't be all cheer and bubbles today but she refused to let the others be brought down with her. "Aren, could... Could you just sit with me for a little bit? " Her fingers had found purchase on her blanket on her lap and was clutching it anxiously, her body a little tense as that little voice everyone has inside told her ' look at you. You are a hot mess. He's got better things to do .'&nbsp; She winced at this thought and then shook her head just a little her hair swaying with her. " I'm sorry, please forgive me. I know you have other things to do. " She bit her lip and finished with a moment later. "You don't have to stay if you don't want to or have somewhere to need to be. I don't want to be keeping you from anything." Auri tried to let out a soft laugh, though it ended up sounding a little sad. " I'm sure there are things we are both supposed to be doing." She tried to put on even just a fraction of her normal Auri smile, it wasn't much but it was the best she could muster for the moment.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle At Aurielle's question Aren turned back in surprise. "Oh." &nbsp;Though taken off guard Aren obliged, immediately returning to his seated position beside her. He smiled at her. "Of course I can - I'd love nothing more. There isn't much for me to do now anyway, now that miss Peri's back." &nbsp;It was clear to Aren that Aurielle was hurting. How could he possibly turn away?&nbsp; That said, Aren didn't exactly have much experience comforting others. Unsure of what to do Aren remained silent, waiting to see if Aurielle wanted to say something. Just in case, he placed his hand near hers, inconspicuously offering it for support.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri When Khord held his hand out for the armor piece she was holding Peri passed it over, still looking at the little wooden figures of two people she didn't recognize. "Fortitude. I like that. I'm starting to believe that caring is highly overrated, though, you know." when he finished with his armor she stood up with him and leaned against his metal leg for a moment, heaving out a sigh. "Thanks, Khord. I'm glad you're here. Let me know if Scooter bothers you again and I'll settle him, he's scared of me."&nbsp;

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, late morning Who: Khord, Peri Khords eyes narrows a little as she brings up Donny bugging him and almost growls. "If he doesn't back off he will learn that you aren't the only one he should fear." He shakes his head before patting Peri's shoulder and starts to head out. "I will meet you back at camp, sit here and relax, there is another Party Tree for you to enjoy." He points at a tree that looks a little like a party tree but not really. "Remember, you just need to be confident, you got the skills to back it up." Khord disappears into the forest as he heads back to the camp.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle Auri's eyes had trailed down to the floor as the voice in her head had caused her doubt that he would stay for her. It genuinely surprised her when his response was actually positive. Within a few moments she found him by her side sitting awkwardly a silence settling over the two of them alone in her tent.&nbsp; Her inner doubts were piping up again trying to get a word in edgewise to bring her down further, 'He's only here because he pities you. ' Auri's head shook a little as she tried to ignore the thoughts. She bit down on her lip for a moment before releasing both her bite and her grip on her blankets. Trembling slightly she took a deep breath in slowly then exhaled slower trying to dispel her own demons. 'He wouldn't still be here if he didn't care just a little bit, pity or not.' Glancing over she noticed just how close Aren was to her in her little tent and she remembered how good it felt just to sit there in his arms as he sang softly to her. What she would kill to have that feeling again. It was the first time in a while that she had felt genuinely safe, like nothing bad could get to her. He had his own calming effect over her. She hoped he would not pull away from her as she slid her arm between Aren and his core sliding her hands to his, she leaned against him her head resting against his shoulder. Aurielle rested against Aren feeling safer next to him as the darkness in her mind started to recede, but it was too quiet in the tent. Auri wasn't sure how he would feel about her singing or if she would just sound like a lunatic but she knew the music would make her feel a little better and would continue to calm her nerves. Her voice started out soft, sweet and small but it truly had a sort of angelic quality to it, a sort of calming effect. the first song she could think of, she could only remember the chorus to but it had stayed with her all these years and it made her feel safe. "When the hope of morning starts to fade in me I don't dare let darkness have its way with me And the hope of morning makes me worth the fight I will not be giving in tonight" It was the only part she could remember but it had gotten her through many moments that would have otherwise have broken her over the years. It also helped that her voice was at least a little pleasant to listen to. As her song trailed off she sat quiet for a moment trying to recall another song, but at least she had calmed down from where she was mere minutes earlier.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle Sitting in silence Aren waited patiently for Aurielle to say something. She had stopped crying at this point but she was still far from her normal, cheery self. However, Aren was taken completely by surprise when instead of saying something Aurielle leaned against him, he hand finding his and her head resting gently on his shoulder. Unsure how to respond Aren hesitated for a half-second before gently wrapping his free arm around Aurielle again - not pulling her any closer, just providing what support he could give. She smelled good - like fresh air on a cool spring day.&nbsp; Then Aurielle began to sing - in response to him? She didn't sing for long - just the chorus of a song - but Aren was amazed at the clarity and calmness of her voice. It had an angelic quality to it, and as Aren listened he almost felt as though all the weariness and frustration he'd gained through talking to Tik Tik earlier was melting away. He found himself closing his eyes as he listened, to simply appreciate the beauty of what he was hearing.&nbsp; Then it was over, and silence descended on them once again. Aurielle seemed calmer in his arms - the song must be a comfort to her in the same way his mother's was for him. "That was a beautiful chorus." Aren said. Opening his eyes he glanced down at Aurielle - though he couldn't see much past all the white hair. "I'd love to hear the whole thing sometime, if you're willing." Aren hesitated for a second before continuing. "Are you ok? Do you want to talk about it?"

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle Aren's arms found there way around Auri as she began to sing and though he didn't hold her in any sort of tight embrace she found herself just comforted by his presence. When she had finished her song she had sat there trying to remember the rest of the words or any other song from her childhood, but her memories from that time with a bit blurry. She remembered chunks of the good from back then, but many things had been buried away and then she was on her own. She took only what she could carry and what she could get away with, but she knew she could not return there.&nbsp; Aren's voice brought her back into focus as she sat back a little. "I wish I could remember the rest of the song. It is so long ago..." Her voice trailed off for a moment before she continued. "I.. I have a hard time remembering them, the songs... and the people who sang them." Auri's hands went absently to a lock of her long hair and she clutched at it as she tried to remember. "I will be ok. Somethings just are better buried I guess." Auri bit down on her lip for a moment and shook her head. "I just can't right now. Some things are better buried." She gently pushed a little of her hair aside and a soft but sad tinged smile was revealed upon her usually cheery face. "A.. Aren. I just.. I want to thank you, for sitting with me. I know it seems silly, but.. it means a lot." Auri shifted the way she was sitting so now her legs were under her, the blanket sliding away as she sat forward her arms sliding around his waist as she went to hug him. She held this hug for a few moments before sitting back tilting her head to try and hear something better. "Its a ways off... but I swear I hear Donny calling us." Enough time had passed that it was now time for them to go head into the Fort again. "You should go ahead. I have to take care of a couple of things. I'll catch up to you!" She gave him a little warmer smile, a little closer to her normal self again.

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle Aurielle's response was a little vague, but it's not like Aren didn't have things he wanted to keep secret, himself. So, even though he found himself wanting to know more he didn't push, didn't ask for her to confide things that she didn't want to even remember. Instead as she pulled away he simply nodded, saying, "Sure. I understand. We all have things we don't want to remember." &nbsp;Aren felt a warm feeling rising up in his chest as she thanked him. "Of course. It's not silly, we all need some support sometimes. I'm glad that I was here for you when you needed it." &nbsp;Aren smiled down at her. "If you ever need me, feel free to come find me. I'd be happy to help again if you need it."&nbsp; Aren found himself surprised again as Aurielle came back to give him a hug. As her head rested on his chest this time Aren found his heart speeding up somewhat alarmingly, even as he returned the hug. He caught a small glimpse of her smile, looking much happier now, more like she usually was. As she told him about hearing Donny Aren frowned a little. Wasn't Donny already in the Fort? Well, whatever - he recognized a dismissal when he heard one. Aurielle was already doing a lot better than she had been, and needed some time alone to fully pull herself together. He could respect that. "Right. Sure. No problem, I'll go on ahead." &nbsp;Aren rose to a crouch again, turning to exit the tent. As he was exiting he turned back towards her, putting two fingers to his brow in a small pseudo-salute and grinning. "I'll be counting on you in there, so don't keep us waiting too long!" Outside the tent, Aren took a moment to stretch his arms upward. He hadn't really noticed in the moment, but holding a position like that in such a cramped space was actually pretty rough, and he had stiffened up a bit. He looked up as he finished, smiling up at the cloudless sky. The smile widened into a grin as he started walking towards the entrance to the Fort. He was able to suppress it before people started gawking at him for looking like an idiot, but for some reason he had a good feeling about today.&nbsp;

Location: Outside Fort Date/Time: second day with Prince Rygar's men, morning Who: Aren, Aurielle Auri watched Aren's face fall a little as she mentioned hearing Donny and tilted her head a little wondering what was on his mind. She already knew it was bad form to be late but she wouldn't give them a lot of faith in there looking a hot mess. With his little salute she let out a soft melodious giggle. "I won't be long." A light blush appeared on her cheeks as he left her with those words but Auri just shook her head and grabbed her brush trying to quickly make herself look as if she hadn't just had a resurgence of darkness from her past. Sometimes she had nightmares like this but they were few and far between which she had been grateful for up til now. The past was a blur and the more she thought on it the more it made her head hurt and made her feel dizzy. She couldn't afford that right now and she didn't want to let her party down. They had been nothing but kind to her since the try outs and they were putting their faith in her ability to keep them up when the time came. Running the brush through her hair a few more times she pulled her hair back into a quick braid keeping it out of her face for the most part other than her overgrown bangs. She smoothed out her under clothes and armor before grabbing for her trusty mace and shield. "I've got this," she whispered to herself. She would face whatever came ahead with a smile and the power of her god behind her, and with that she headed towards the fort knowing she would be a bit behind but hopefully they wouldn't need healers quite so fast.&nbsp;

Location: Dungeon, Ritual Room Date/Time: second day, after the fight Who: everyone except Khord Aren dragged himself to his feet. He was still exhausted from the fight, but after taking a few minutes to bandage the worst of his wounds at least he wasn't in danger of bleeding out. He took a second to look around, taking in the situation. It looked like everyone was still here, except for Khord who had run off - hopefully towards the entrance. Donny looked a little exasperated taking to Tik Tik, who was refusing to move or take his axe back. Aurielle was alone in a corner, huddled up hugging her knees. It looked like Peri and Kallen were both off doing the same thing Aren had been for the last few minutes: bandaging and recovering from the succubi's mental attacks. Nizzan was the only one who looked unfazed by the fight, gazing around with aloof smugness. Aren looked around nervously. They needed to rest but with that ghost-dragon thing around this wasn't the place to do it. It didn't look like anyone was planning to move anytime soon, though.&nbsp; "Guys we need to get out of here." He called out. "That thing we saw is still around here somewhere, and we're easy pickings if he shows up right now. We'll keep going tomorrow."&nbsp; He walked over to Aurielle, favoring his right side as he walked. He offered her a hand up. "Come on. We don't want to stay here any longer than we have to."

Location: Dungeon, Ritual Room Date/Time: second day, after the fight Who: everyone except Khord Tik Tik stands up, picks up his axe, brushes past cookman and silently stalks out of the room. Refusing to look at anyone just silently taking the clue given to the group. Usually Tik TIk who is too lazy to carry his weapon and constantly drags it, instead holds it close to himself and as quietly as possible.

Location: Dungeon, Ritual Room Date/Time: second day, after the fight Who:&nbsp; Khord (22 on the con save throw so he runs for a while) As Khord headbutted the Thri-kreen He felt something take a hold of his body and he couldn't move. He struggled to get free as he noticed he couldn't he started to remember when he first woke up, unable to move, his body racked with pain, the blanket feeling like it weighed as much as a mountain. And he struggled, and struggled harder, burning what felt to be his soul he finally broke free and then he just took off. He ran, as fast as his body would take him, out of the dungeon and then in a random direction. He kept going, barely avoiding most obstacles and outright hitting some as he just kept on running, from the past, the pain from everything. Panting, heaving, sweat pouring down his massive body, he refused to stop. He just kept running until everything went white, even his past disappeared into the void, and he felt peace as his body fell forwards.