Bermuda Hex Rp Forum

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: everyone except Peri As Khord turned to Auri she had gone to strike him but her his hand caught hers at the wrist dwarfing her hand, but her words fueled by darkness and anger spilled out onto him. His emotions didn't register as the darkness overtook her, her eyes black now her face cold and lacking all the love and gentleness she normally possessed. She was so small compared to him but her bark was fierce as as his. His look of confusion and concern didn't even seem to phase her, it wasn't until he wrapped his arms around her that the darkness inside her caused her to sudden be concerned. She looked around and as he moved her step by step closer to the water and the darkness in her became desperate telling her to get away from him and the water but all her flailing was for not, she was not stronger than him and his grip on her would not ease. "Let go of me you fool! " Auri beat her free hand against his chest. "Aren... Don't let him hurt me!" The darkness was now using her voice and as Aren came to her aid it was to her horror that he was pushed away. Inside under all the darkness Auri was crying out inside desperate to break free of this darkness she hadn't known had been lurking inside of her all this time, waiting. "Khord you can still stop this..." Auri felt the water of the pool touch her and while it wasn't as pure as it had been when they first had entered the room, tainted by what all they had destroyed in the water, but all the same it seared her and the darkness. She let out an ear piercing scream until Khord's hand came over her mouth making sure she wouldn't choke on the water once submerged. Her hands tried to find purchase on his trying to pull his away. As he fully submerged them both she felt the radiant energy forcing back the darkness causing it to retreat into the deepest part of herself and her flailing and struggling stopped. The inner part of Auri gasped as she came back into the foreground, these internal tendrils of darkness forced to retreat and starting to feel her lungs burn a little she gave his hand over her mouth a gentle squeeze.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Khord, Aurielle Khord felt both pain and happiness as Aurielle screamed. Knowing that there was something evil inside her was a relief as he didn't want to think she could make that face at him. But this water seemed to be causing her pain all the way down to the soul and he knew that at least some of what she said was what she felt deep down. Khord's anger had already been doused by worry for Aurielle and the pool seemed to be helping. He began to think about what had just happened. Yes Donny had pushed too much but Khord should have been better than to lose his anger like that. Lost in his thoughts he suddenly felt a hand squeezing his own and he looked down at Aurielle, her eyes had become mostly cleared and her face once again had that gentle countenance. He inwardly felt much better about his decision and he stroked her hair awkwardly, trying to calm her down and push the last of whatever was controlling her away. Khord stood there trying to help her come back to herself before they had to leave the pool and just mouthed, 'thank you' to her, bubbles escaping his mouth as he looked at her. He smiled awkwardly as he let he go so she was just floating in the pool with him. He continued to watch her just to be sure and because it made him feel better than he normally does. He contemplated on how to apologize as he sat down as the bottom of the pool as the water and Aurielle's presence seemed to purify his mind some. The closest thing to a true smile played at his lips as he looked up at Aurielle before closing his eyes to think.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Khord, Aurielle Aurielle's hand gently squeezed Khord's and she felt him loosen his grip over her mouth first as he looked up into her eyes and saw that indeed they were hers again filled with a beautiful golden radiance but also a sadness and what looked like fear. Auri's mind was reeling from everything that had just happened and she was terrified that the consequences of her actions, of what they had all just seen lurking inside of her would have her exiled again, would have her pushed away from another group of people she wanted desperately to call her friends and maybe some day her family.  Despite what he had seen Khord was albiet awkwardly stroking her long hair which floated around her like ethereal tendrils having come undone from her braid in the struggle. She looked into his eyes and watched him mouth thank you to her, but for what? She had been taken over and had hit Donny, had shoved Aren and had tried to strike Khord too. Biting her lip and on the verge of tears that couldn't be seen in the water Auri used his arm which had loosened it's grip on her to pull herself close to him and she hugged him tightly for a moment trying to calm herself before a burning in her lung reminded her that she needed to surface and soon. Auri pulled his face up so he could look her in the face and shook her head before mouthing in return "no , thank you ." She leaned in and softly kissed him on the cheek before letting go and crouching down using his leg now bent from him going to sit down to launch herself back up to the surface.  She appeared breaking the surface of the water with a gasp, taking in the musty dark air like it was the sweetest thing she had ever tasted. She flailed for a moment then finding herself still floating a little despite the weight of her armor she looked up to her party between wet locks of hair, appearing much a drowned kitten. She wanted to swim to the edge and pull herself out of the water but looking around she felt ashamed of what she has done and felt herself slide down into the water so only the top part of her face was visible her, her eyes slightly obscured by her wet hair. All she wanted was to say ' I'm sorry. Please don't make me go. '

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Khord, Aurielle Seeing Aurielle saying thank you back to Khord made him happier than he thought and he began blushing as she kissed him. Embarrased by his actions he stayed down here longer than he intended and his mind wandered to nowhere in particular. He felt a small need to take a breath so he began to surface. Seeing Aurielle still in the pool he was curious about what was going he looked at her as he surfaced. Seeing that she was worried he was curious about what had happened while he was down there. He got her attention and whispered to her, "what's up? " Looking at her worriedly as he tried to figure what happened. Not getting a real answer and unable to figure out what was going on he scooped her up and pulled her out of the water with him. setting her down and going to get some towels and began to dry her off before he dried himself off.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Everyone As Khord and Aurielle submerged themselves a muffled scream could be heard emanating from the water - presumably Aurielle's. Aren had begun to rush forward to try to help Aurielle but found himself drawing up short as he heard that scream. He was confused - was there actually something possessing Aurielle? That was the only explanation for why it would pain her that much. The screams went on for a mere moment, but they felt like a lifetime to Aren. Suddenly the turbulent water stilled - which was almost worse as he waited for signs that Aurielle and Khord would come back. Suddenly he saw Aurielle's white hair breaking the surface. He rushed to the edge of the pool again as she made her way to the edge. His eyes were a little wide as he scanned her for signs of injury. It seemed like she was more or less back to normal - her visage had lost that terrifying rage he had seen earlier and her eyes were their normal color. Now, she just looked wet and miserable. Aren felt a wave of guilt crash over him as he realized that Khord had been right - or at least had done the right thing. And he - Aren - had tried to stop him. She wasn't moving towards him for some reason - she probably still remembered everything. He could worry about that later, though - once he made sure she really was OK. "Aurielle!" He called out. "Oh gods, I'm so sorry. Are you OK? What the hell happened?" Before she could respond though Khord surfaced next to her. Aren saw him whisper something in her ear, then pick her up again, this time carrying her out of the pool.  As the pair finally came to the edge of the pool Aren did a quick check to make sure Aurielle wasn't injured and really was back to normal. Finding nothing he let out a sigh of relief. "Oh, thank the gods you're all right." As his concern faded the guilt came flooding back. Aren quickly dropped his gaze from Aurielle's, taking several steps back. "I'm so sorry. I didn't know. I - I wouldn't have tried to stop him, I just - just didn't know!" Aren's tone tuned somewhere between mournful and bitter, now talking out loud to himself, barely audible. "I didn't realize..." He continued backing away, letting the rest of the group crowd around their two soggy members. "I - I'm gonna go find Kallen." Aren trudged back towards the entrance to the tunnel. Finding Kallen there, he clapped him on the shoulder again. "Hey, Kallen."  His voice sounded discouraged, even to him.  "Sorry to bother you again, but would you mind going back in to make sure Aurielle and Khord are all right? They need more medical experience than i have. I'll take over the watch agian" Aren tried to shake off some of the guilt gnawing at him, tried to put a little more spirit into his voice. "That was a great speech by the way. I think you're absolutely right."  As Kallen left Aren sat down on the stone floor heavily, head down. He knew he was feeling sorry for himself, but it was several minutes before he could find it in himself to raise his head and actually watch like he needed to.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Everyone Donny began to answer Khord's reply, "For the last time he was possessed, and you were doing the same brash actions! Only differe-." Donny was swiftly slapped by the gentle cleric, the metal gauntlet bruising Donny's face quite badly; and now was bleeding from the inside of his mouth. Donny recoiled from the shock to listen to Auri about being self-righteous. 'Nothing I said was wrong though?' He thought to himself, barely listening to the words Auri had for Khord who was able to dance around Auri's slap. Donny now frozen watching the events unfold, barely paying attention to what was happening. His mind racing about things, he was able to hear Kallen's speech about communication. 'Yes, that's all I wanted. I just wanted everything out in the open. Is that so wrong, is that..' Donny turned his back to the party, and made a wide arc around to avoid any eyes. He had begun tearing up, and didn't want them to see. "Fine." Was the only words, a few who paid attention would hear. Donny made his way behind the statue to think. He wiped his watery eyes, and the blood from his lips, and sat behind; not saying a word.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Everyone Fear had gripped her as she floated in the water her nose just barely above the surface so she could breathe. Surely they could never want such a broken and defective thing like her now that they had seen the darkness she carried within. The others before them hadn't wanted her and all they had merely scratched the surface in their adventures, they had watched her become dizzy and decided she wasn't good enough. They had thrown her out as if she had meant nothing to them and it hurt her. She didn't want to be alone again, not when she had just found so many wonderful people she might just be able to call her friends. Auri shrunk back hearing Aren calling out to her thinking, I shoved him aside, I pushed him away like he was nothing, just like he will do to me . Auri's eyes went wide as she felt Khord surface beside her and hearing his whisper she looked up to him and he could see the pain and fear in her eyes, but she couldn't answer him. She couldn't answer any of them, but there again Khord's arms were around her and he lifted her up out of the water placing her back onto solid ground before walking a way to find some fresh towels and for the briefest of moments she felt safe, but that too was fleeting as he walked away.  She felt about as low as she possibly could. She had caused her friends pain and heartache and all she could do was stand there staring at the floor shaking, soaked to the bone dripping with some form of what must have been holy water. A tear rolled down her cheek as she tried her darnedest not to fall completely apart. She didn't know what to say to Aren as he backed away from her making his apologies for something she'd never hold against him. Aren had been nothing but kind to her and it hurt her to see him like this, but her shame and fear was keeping her from calling out to him and saying what she needed to. Donny too, she knew she would have to find him later and beg his forgiveness for what she'd done. It was only when Khord returned to her side with a towel that she could even just barely look up to him and whisper out a tiny and broken "I'm sorry." She trembled as a tear rolled down her face and she couldn't even say it, only mouth it to him, 'I'm terrified.'

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Middle of the day Who: Khord, Aurielle Khord took off Aurielle's chain mail to help her dry off. As he was grabbing a towel he heard Aurielle's whisper and he froze. Once he started thinking again he couldn't help but mutter, "What do you have to be sorry for?" Looking at her face he just saw a tear run down her face. Instinctively, he wiped it away before saying quietly, "there is nothing to be worried about. It will all be alright." Not sure what to say he sat behind her and dried her hair before complicatedly braiding it in a way Aurielle had never seen. Starting from seemingly hundreds of braids, he brought them together slowly in a checker looking pattern then separating them into two tails. As he was braiding her hair he suddenly remembered a song his mother used to sing. For some reason it felt right to sing it now. He began to quietly sing in a deep bass voice. "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." Khord continued on with the song as he kept twining Aurielle's hair together and throwing words in when he couldn't remember and humming at other times until he noticed he had finished braiding her hair. As he finished singing he grabbed another towel and helped her dry off as he reiterated, "Everything will be just fine Aurielle, I promise you that. You are alright now, everything is alright." He looked around thinking about how much everything had fallen apart in this fort and how some the blame rested with him. catching sight of Donny he decided to apologize when they got out of this place. He continued to sit behind Aurielle as he began to maintain his own gear, shivering a little as he realizes he is still soaked, but deciding to ignore it for now.

Location: Statue room Date/Time: Sometime during the day? (hard to tell in the underground) Who:  Kallen, Aren Taking back his seat at the edge of the cavern space, Kallen sat cross-legged on the rocky floor. He didn't usually give his opinion, aside from professional circumstances. My advice tends to be lackluster, why did those words just spill out? Now I'm the nosy one I guess.  He had begun ruminating on the lecture he wish he had never given when a hand met his shoulder. Kallen looked up to see Aren dropping down next to him. It was commonplace to look down at Kallen, his height made that unsurprising. What did stand out was even still, Aren never looked Kallen in the eyes as he spoke. That was not the confidence and spirit he had known the man to usually carry, something had happened. Letting the stillness of the room hold, catching its breath after the recent events, Kallen responded, "Of course, let me know when you need a break."  He couldn't bring himself to ask what had happened, not after listening to his own words over and over in his head. It just wouldn't be right; people need space. Kallen stood up with a smile and tapped Aren on the back with his fist, leaving it there for half a second longer than is custom, and walked away. Khord was still soaked, but was taking the time to dry and braid Auri's hair. I'm still confused what history they have, though I don't believe they knew each other before... Kallen remembered Auri's efforts in keeping Khord alive during the woods-running fiasco. Unsure what had transpired, everyone seemed to have calmed down. Kallen surveyed the space, noticing he had handed out things to the others, but not these two. Well that would be less than fair, what do I even have left.  Thinking, unmoving, Kallen stood only a dozen or so feet away from them. He dug into his bag, Anything, is there anything in here, something.  Aside from his survival kit, medical supplies, and some rations, all he had were a couple pieces of parchment and a small mirror. Kallen was meticulous with his hair. Something about the transformation required that he always be well-kept and looking the best he could. Sometime after Chem's help, Kallen bought this mirror to check up on himself throughout the day. He was embarrassed by the idea, so a small one, about palm sized, was perfect. He turned it around and etched "Always remember to see the light" into the back with his dagger. Then he sat down, took out the parchment, and began to sketch. Kallen was no artist by any means, but he had drawn anatomical structures with his mother for years. Without visualization, how could he ever understand what was going on in his patients? It started with a rough outline. Kallen would occasionally stop and look up at the two, look back down, and continue his work. Some time later, could be three minutes or could be thirty, he wasn't sure, Kallen looked at his attempt with satisfaction. He jotted down on the bottom "Don't forget to breath" and rolled it up.  Anything more would be acting like an overprotective parent, Kallen wasn't good with children. He walked over and placed the mirror by Auri's feet and the rolled up parchmet next to Khord. Today has been too long, he thought as he looked back at Aren. Let's hope tomorrow is a little bit more sane.  Kallen slowly made his way to the back of the statue in the shadow from its flame and made camp.

Location:  Base Date/Time:  Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Auri and Thaddius The night had started off well enough, she had dressed in he flouncy lacy dress given to her by the prince during her previous audience with him, and Khord had kindly bought her the bunny mask to wear with it. The rest of the night was a blur of crazy men, murder and blood. She had comforted many but that poor bard was on her mind as she left for the night beside Khord, unsure of her own way home. She his tears behind her mask hoping no one would notice and as they saw Thaddius start to bed down for the night she looked up to Khord and tugged on his arm. "You know we have to take him in." She knew he was strange and wasn't exactly their first choice but the Prince had requested it of them. Khord was pulled down to Auri and she softly threatened him with putting Thaddius in his living space if he didn't ask him to come with them. As soon as he did Thaddius followed them home and Auri kept close to Khord a little weirded out by their new party member but not going to turn him away. She had so much on her mind tonight and her heart ached for the people in their lives they had recently lost and for the bard who would never sing again. Khord had taken to her a little, mostly in a protective manner, but Aren who had before those battles at the fort been so kind to her was now ignoring her presence as well. Her hand clutched at the bag she kept her cookies in and as soon as their home was in sight she bolted for the door, making her way in and then out to the back into the garden where Tik-Tik had drawn his last box on the ground. She sat down in the box and curled up her head resting on her knees as she gently let out a soft weep.  Auri closed her eyes for a moment trying to center herself taking in all the noises of the night. With each slow breath of the now chilly air she tried to bring herself back in to a place of calm. Her hand went to the ribbon which held her mask in place and she let it fall away into her lap, the inside of it now stained with her tears and she closed her eyes. She curled up tighter and whispered her soft sad song knowing her words would not end up on the ears of those wo needed them most but maybe she was the one who needed to truly hear them most. Maybe it was her who needed that reminder that she was here now to do good, to lift her group up and give them the best she had, that they deserved no less than that. Her hands blindly felt for each of her braids and she undid them one at a time until all her soft long white hair surrounded her in a semi-ethereal shroud catching little bits of the breeze as she sat there alone. It was there she fell asleep curled up in the box Tik-Tik had left behind, her mind thinking on all the things that had happened since she had arrive there, and pondering all the things that were still to come.

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Aurielle As the courier departed after informing the group about the Prince's soiree, Aren turned to the rest of his party - those who were awake at least. Khord looked more bewildered than anything, seemingly uncertain of what to do in this situation. Aurielle was back in the kitchen. Aren couldn't quite see what she was doing but something smelled delicious so probably baking of some kind. Aren felt a shadow of guilt and regret crawl through him as he looked back at her, remembering his failure in the cave. Honestly Aren wouldn't be surprised if Aurielle wanted nothing more to do with him after that whole incident, so he'd been keeping his distance. In fact Aren had barely been able to look Aurielle in the eyes ever since then, though admittedly there hadn't been a whole lot of opportunity considering all they had been through. Khord had been sticking close to Aurielle ever since, and Aren had deferred to the more experienced man - his superior judgement and strength were better suited to the task anyway.  They decided to attend the soiree, thinking at least it would be a good chance to report to the Prince what had happened in the dungeon. As Aurielle went up to the girls' room to change she left a couple cookies behind, apparently the only 2 which she had been able to finish before the courier had arrived. She called down behind her - probably more to Khord but she hadn't specified - that they could have the cookies if they wanted.  Aren and Khord approached the cookies, curious as to what Aurielle had created. She had seemed to be pulling these cookies out of nowhere to feed to Tik Tik before he had left, and he had certainly seemed to enjoy them. This was likely their best chance to see for themselves what she had created. The cookies were very large - both were fully half the size of the plate they were on - and perfectly shaped. The dough was just a little fluffy and baked to a perfect golden brown. The chocolate mixed in was still warm and melted, and a fresh-baked smell was still wafting from them as the two approached. If there was a rating for cookie presentation where 10 was the highest, these would easily be a natural 20. As they each took one of the cookies - Khord cutting his in half - they nearly fell apart just as they were being picked up. Still warm from the baking process, the cookies just barely had the cohesion to stay in one piece if they were supported in multiple places, their bottoms baked to a very slightly harder crust from their contact with the baking sheet. Aren took his first large bite and his eyes shot open as the decadent flavors of the cookie filled his mouth. The dough was still soft and rich, cooked enough to blend all of the flavors perfectly and still moist enough to retain its soft texture. The warmth of the cookie began to suffuse through Aren's whole body, driving away some of the cold feelings he had had ever since they had left the statue's room. The added bits of chocolate melted in his mouth, adding layers of sweet, sublime flavor to the cookie. Truly, this was a confectionery made for the Gods, themselves.  Aren had never had a cookie like this before, and found that before he knew it he had devoured the entire thing in a few heavenly bites. He found himself amazed that Aurielle had been able to create such perfection. The cookie was unlike anything he had ever experienced before. He was reminded of memories that he had long thought lost - memories of a happier time, when his mother had occasionally cooked things similar to this when something good had happened. As Aren came back to the present, he felt his guilt and shame that he had nearly let Auri come to harm redoubled. Aren quickly went up to the bunk room to change into his own more formal wear he had acquired from the Prince, more convinced than ever that he was wholly inadequate in the face of such perfection. 

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Auri and Thaddius Thaddius took some time acclimatizing himself to the house, wandering through the house was an odd experience flashes of remembering peaceful times like this came to him as he wandered. He took a deep breath of the faint smell of the kitchen, as he walked by, instantly reminded of the familiar cooking techniques he taught Donny. I wonder.. was he happy here? There seems to be discord here... Donny did mention missus Peri and Khord- A different voice chimed in -They hurt your little student Thaddius.  all terrible people *chuckling* Poor old Thaddius lived through chaos to come out with nothing- " Oh shut up, father hates it when you think like that Thaddius" he wanders past the kitchen not willing to step inside to pick up the old art. The rhythmic *thump* of his cane echoing throughout the house, he ran a hand through his dirty tangled hair and looked out through the back window and saw Auri crouching in the back yard. Is it my place to help yet? I mean... I'm at least... a distraction. "Father? Can you walk me outside?"  A familiar cold hand takes his as the giant slowly nudges open the door allowing Thaddius to walk outside, the brisk cold slapping him in the face. "Young lady it's cold out should you not come in and have some tea, hot cocoa? He was always a dutiful cook and i'm sure i can rustle something up!" He patted Father to keep him a couple feet back, he hobbled over and with a sigh slowly began taking a seat feigning the chronic pain of an old man. He sat for a moment in silence, allowing his voices to bicker back and forth over what was the correct course of action -There will be no surprise surgeries on a pure night like tonight, generally people do not like to be operated on without consent. Or at least from what we've learned correct? He looked down at the sleeping angel beside him and gently tried to rouse her from her slumber. "Sweetheart it's cold and i know you miss them, it's painfully obvious to see but you need to stay strong for yourself as well as your friends, they're counting on you. You've had it rough I can tell, but wake and at least talk to us about it okay?" He gently nudged her and worry in his voice was painfully obvious, a pang of memories flooded through him of taking care of the children back home and teaching them to read and write. Thaddius smiled to himself -Maybe this group will help me remember myself in time.

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aurielle, Thaddius As Khord was walking home with Aurielle he was still unsure why she said she was going to put Thaddius in the basement with him but she was obviously upset so he didn't bring it up. He was trying to think of something to say to comfort Aurielle but he wasn't sure why she was upset in the first place so he just stood near her trying to be quiet support for her. As the reached the house Khord went to say something but before he could get the words out of his mouth she took off, almost in a run, to the house. Being confused, Khord stood there for a moment before following her inside. Seeing Aurielle head straight through the house to the back Khord followed her, trying to think of what to say. Seeing her sit where the Thri Kreen used to stay outside he was even more confused.  Standing off to the side still debating on what to he saw Thaddius come outside and approach Aurielle, with his construct staying behind. He was about to say something to stop Thaddius but stopped as He started comforting her. As Thaddius talked he realized why she was upset and was embarrased that he couldn't understand her feelings. Even now his mind knew what she was feeling but some part of him couldn't understand it. He stopped as he thought about it and his realization startled him. He hadn't a home in a long time, he had places he stayed but he never really had a place called home. He hadn't had friends in that time either, he worked with people but never considered anyone friends, he would use them for his objectives and be civil with them but never made any lasting connections. He hadn't talked to his family in years either, he missed his mother and some of his siblings but he hadn't reached out to them. Khord wondered why he never did that, why he never connected with anyone on more than a superficial level. He looked at Aurielle crying and he found his answer... People leaving hurt and having his home destroyed again was something he couldn't handle. Something opened up in his mind, even though he wasn't sure what. As Khord came out of his thoughts he noticed Thaddius trying to rouse Aurielle and her stirring. He walked up to Thaddius and patted him on the shoulder and said, "Thank you, when she finishes wakes up can you take her to her room?" He thought that is might have been a good idea to bring in this crazy man. After saying that he headed back in and went down the stairs to the basement. He began to carve as he got lost in the same thoughts as earlier and about what he did to Donny.

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Auri and Thaddius Auri had fallen asleep curled up her head rested on her knees, the rabbit mask in her lap, so she hadn't heard anyone approach her. Her hair caught the breeze, little whisps of her hair float on the breeze as whats left of the leaves on the trees rattle and shake. Auri trembled in her sleep the cold of the night kissing the pale exposed skin of her tear stained face and her arms as she slept. Auri didn't stir as Thaddius made his approach, and then the same as Khord gently asked Thaddius to make sure she got to her room. She was a hard sleeper and right now she was lost in her dreams, it smelled like cookies there and they were sitting in the field, the sun was bright and warm. She was surrounded by the sounds of the camp and the people around her were all faces she had been coming to care about. Auri felt a cold breeze cracking away at the edges of her dream and darkness started to seep through and with a start Auri woke up to Thaddius nudging her standing too close to her. She fell back and away from him startled and his face being unfamiliar, coming out of the fog of sleep, she let out a scream. She scrambled back away from Thaddius, her mask falling to the ground with a clatter and a crack. Realizing if she stepped any further back she risked damaging the garden she tapped into her racial power and ethereal wings sprouted from her back glowing faintly of a radiant light, she slept up her wings flapping as she bounced backwards landing on the edge of the fence for a brief moment her mind in fight or flight and she had chosen flight. Within a moment she had made it to the roof and from there she ran across the roof to the nearest building and lept her wings carrying her.

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Auri and Thaddius Once they had left the Prince's soiree mishap Aren decided to scout ahead of Khord and Aurielle - there had been enough weirdness for one night and he was determined that nothing else would sneak up and surprise them. Fortunately nothing was lying in wait for them on their way back and they arrived at the house without incident - although they had two additional guests. Aren wasn't sure what was going to happen but he knew he didn't want to be around Peri when she found out they were now playing babysitter to a crazy old man and his giant construct. Considering that Peri had just barely started being friendly towards him Kallen and Aurielle he could only see that ending in disaster. Regardless, the Prince's orders were orders. Distasteful as it was they were stuck with him now.  As Aren arrived at the house he waited by the front door until Khord Auri and Thaddius came into view before entering. He made a small plate of food for himself before heading up to the bunk room - they hadn't gotten a chance to eat at the Prince's party, after all. As he made his way up the stairs he thought he heard running footsteps and a door slamming open, but the commotion ended there. Maybe Peri had gotten up and wanted to see her garden? Shrugging, he put it out of his mind and started getting ready for bed.  Suddenly a piercing scream rang out from the garden. It was a familiar scream - it had the same desperate tone Aren had heard in Aurielle's tent as she awoke from her nightmare. Before he even realized he was moving Aren was already back down the stairs and heading into the garden. As he entered he saw Thaddius, his construct a few feet away, standing alone on the path, near a small design that Aren assumed was one of Tik Tik's boxes. He was staring up at something in the sky, and as Aren followed his gaze he saw Aurielle, her angelic white wings spread out, fleeing in what looked like blind terror. "Aurielle!" He cried out to her, but either she didn't hear him or didn't recognize his voice in her fear. Not even slowing down, she flew up to the roof of their house and continued on, the glow surrounding her slowly fading as she moved away. Aren shot a furious glare at Thaddius. "Oi! What did you do to her old man!?"  Not waiting for his answer Aren spun around and dashed through the house to the street, hoping that he would still be able to see her.  (25 Survival) Fortunately in the darkness even though Aren couldn't see Aurielle flying over the rooftops the soft angelic glow surrounding her was visible even from the street, as long as you knew what you were looking for. Though he lost sight of her briefly, it only took about 10 minutes before Aren saw her sitting on a rooftop, gazing across the city with what looked more like worry than fear or terror. After breathing a quick sigh of relief Aren called up to her. "Aurielle! Are you OK? What happened?" Since it didn't seem like she was in imminent danger, after a brief pause he added, "Are...um. Are you stuck up there?"

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Auri and Thaddius At first her mind a foggy blur and she had bolted, one moment she had been in the field and everything was warm and bright, the next moment she was face to face with a creepy old man she barely knew, the cold night biting at them, and she had panicked. A surge of racial power had given her flight if only for a minute and at first she had jetted, but as she felt she was a safe distance away she slowed and eventually stopped realizing she was now lost. Looking around Aurielle didn't recognize where she was, she'd not really spent enough time in the town to know the layout and when she had walked with Khord and Aren before she had relied on them to guide her. Rubbing her arms to warm them she found herself looking from a roof top as her ethereal wings disappeared and her hair fell around her cause a little by the breeze, the little beams of moonlight shining through strands. She looked to the ground from where she was and realized without her wings she didn't know how she was going to get down, and without her team mates she didn't know how to return... Home. A grim sadness returned to her face as she realized how foolish she had been to take off like that and what trouble it must be causing. Auri carefully sat down on the edge of the roof pulling her leg s close to her shivering a little. "I just want to go home." Her eyes scanned the darkness for any help down below but now it was late into the night and many of the townsfolk had retired for the evening, most drunk from the nights festivities. The few that did pass her by didn't seem to notice her above and she grew worried, "maybe they don't know I'm gone..." She didn't see him round the corner but her name called to her made her look in Aren's direction. A brief smile came to her face as she saw him standing there, but a pang of sadness sliced into her as she remembered how he had avoided her since the incident at the pool. His words brought her back and he mentioned where she was sitting, "I... I'm not hurt, but I don't know if I can get down..." Her voice trailed off as she looked around for any way to get down. A nearby tree looked sturdy enough, promising as long as she didn't lose her footing or grip. 

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Khord, Aren, Auri and Thaddius Startled by the ear splitting scream, Thaddius stepped backwards and immediately fell on his ass. "Listen missy I wasn't meaning- oh she's- Young people know how to be respectful" He slowly got up watching the wings unfurl with a strange beauty, as she leaped up the house and out of his view. Hmm did i over- Of course not i was being worried like a teammate should be! He sat rubbing his rump as he knew he'd probably feel the ache tomorrow. immediately hearing Aren yelling at him Thaddius slowly turned "Now you see i was just worried that the poor girl would get- Well what the F- He ran too! I tell ya these kids" Thaddius scornfully stomped at the ground before pressing down his robes. I really must clean these someday- wonder how much a maid would cost.. " That boy sure did seem mad... wonder what that girl did to him to make him so worried about her- must beeee lovee" Thaddius laughed to himself thinking about his young lov- Wait what young- Did i..? Once again confused Thaddius turned to father and rapped on his chest with a knuckle thinking to himself. "I must've I was always the smartest of teachers...I could fix anything as well! broken hearts, broken bones all the same to good ol, Chef Blaze" He turned back to where Auri used to be laying and mused to himself This is what that one fellow used to do.. Sad to be in a mental cage like that.. needs to come home to them. Picking up the cracked mask he peered at the pieces before muttering a small incantation under his breath sealing the pieces back together like nothing ever happened. "At least i can return this.." he fingered the edge of his own mask as he wandered back into the house.  Taking out a piece of parchment from Father's bag he wrote "Sorry for the scare, I'll promise to keep a distance from ya Auri, here's your mask ya dropped it" Thaddius left it on the kitchen table before returning back to Father in the back yard. "Come on ya big lug, lets find us somewhere to sleep... dunno if there's anywhere that's unclaimed in this place and i'd hate to take someone else's.. Father go get a blanket from inside I'm gunna sleep in the living area" Thaddius went through the nightly ritual of writing down today's events in his journal so he wouldn't forget anything and had Father build him a small nest out of the bed that would've been his in the bunking area. "Well goodnight Father, Tomorrow is a new day i suppose, I'll keep tryin my hardest!" He leaned out and fist bumped Father and curled up into the massive constructs arms. 

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren looked up at Aurielle he saw her brief smile as he called her name, which quickly fell as she saw him. Ah. She was probably hoping for Khord... Glancing away Aren heaved a deep sigh. Well, he was here now. Aren glanced back the way he had come to make sure, but didn't see anyone else pursuing them. Khord was probably still in his basement room, unless he had heard Aurielle's scream. And hopefully Thaddius hadn't followed either. As Aren turned back to Aurielle and her predicament, his momentary relief as she said she wasn't hurt was quickly replaced with renewed anxiety as she started looking for a way down, eyes settling on a tree of dubious stability. She didn't actually mean to climb down did she? Considering her dexterity she was more likely to fall and break her neck - honestly Aren didn't think she'd ever had to climb anything in her life. He pinched the bridge of his nose briefly, holding a hand up to get her attention. "Hang on, Aurielle. I'm glad you're not hurt, but don't try climbing down that." Aren looked around briefly for anyone still awake, but as it was long past midnight it seemed everyone had already gone to bed - there didn't even seem to be any guards around. Aren nervously remembered that Firebolg who had transformed into a Direwolf. He had planned to see if he could find a ladder or something, but maybe it was a good idea to get her down as quickly as possible. "All right, just hang on a second. Let me climb up there to make sure you don't fall at least." Aren would be damned if he found her like this just to have her fall off the roof. As Aren approached the tree he felt his anxiety swelling again. His hands were clammy and his heart was beating rapidly in his throat. He took a second to steady himself. Oi come on man. He thought to himself. It's not even that high. Just up to the roof and you're good. All right? Calm down, man. Calm down. Consciously keeping his breathing steady, Aren deftly worked his way up through the branches until he was close enough to offer Aurielle a hand down. The branch he was standing on was thick and sturdy, but he kept his other hand firmly wrapped around another branch anyway - perhaps with a grip a bit tighter than it needed to be. He was also very carefully not looking at the ground.  "Here. Grab my hand."  He smiled at Aurielle to try to cover his nervousness. "I can at least make sure you won't fall trying to get down."

Location: Base Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren glanced away and she witnessed his deep sigh, she couldn't help but feel like a bother in his eyes, but she tried to bury the feeling as he he called out to her. The tree was probably their best bet right now seeing the lateness of the hour and with most people who had access to a ladder far away. She watched Aren make his way to the tree, but even she could read the anxiety on his face. 'He doesn't have to do this, and yet he is anyway,' she thought to herself. Watching him climb up the branch Aurielle shifted on the roof trying to get closer to the tree where the branch reached up towards her so as to be as close as possible when he made it out as far as he dared. As hard as he tried to hide his nervousness Auri read Aren, but she didn't make a scene out of it. She quietly began to sing as she wiggled closer getting to the edge reaching her hand out to him , "On a long road, miles to go, Its winding and cold and its covered with snow, But I ask you what we all want to know, Where are we going from here..." Her voice was soft and sweet as her melody carried on the breeze. She smiled reassuringly as she reached further out allowing herself to let go of the edge of the roof grabbing for his hand, putting her faith in him that he would not allow her to fall and she kicked off of the roof towards Aren.

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren carefully made his way along the tree branch towards the roof he was vaguely aware of Aurielle scooting closer towards him. She was singing a little tune as well - though Aren was too preoccupied to pay too much attention to it. It was at least reassuring that it seemed like she wasn't as worried anymore.  The branch ended a little short of the roof, forcing Aren to walk out a bit farther than he was comfortable with. Although the branch he was standing on remained plenty thick enough to support him, as he walked further out it began to tremble and sway with every step. As Aurielle reached out to grab his hand there was a half-second where he came close to losing his balance with the shift in balance he needed to pull her off the roof. Aurielle, for her part, kicked off the roof with complete confidence as she took his hand - somewhat misplaced confidence as she failed to adequately look at where she was landing, causing one of her feet to slip off the branch. Aren was able to react in time to stop her from completely falling off the branch, holding onto the hand he was grasping to allow her to catch herself. Even so, he was almost pulled out of the tree himself. "Oh shit."  Aren felt the exclamation pulled out of him as a trill of fear crawled up his spine. He regained his balance quickly, but as he glanced toward the ground several stories away he felt a little tinge of vertigo - which he suppressed ruthlessly. He looked back toward Aurielle, the flash of fear causing him to snap at her a little. "Oi what the hell are you doing jumping at me like that?" He took a deep breath. As he calmed down again he noticed his hand was locked in an almost painfully tight grip around Aurielle's. He immediately reduced some of the pressure, still keeping a firm grip but hopefully not painful at least. "Sorry, Sorry. You scared me a little, losing your balance like that. You gotta be more careful in the dark, yeah?"

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Aurielle made her leap of faith from the rooftop to the tree branch occupied now by Aren, his hand in hers but she had misjudged her landing and her foot slipped as it hit the branch. For a moment she had felt free flying through the air wingless, her hand in his and all at once her heart dropped, but Aren's grip had grown tight, almost painfully so around hers as he worked to stop her sudden descent. He had been pulled towards her as she dropped, getting a good view of the ground below them as he was nearly pulled from the tree himself, but though the branches swayed with the sudden addition of weight and movement they did not break. Auri let out a frightened squeak as she dropped, but then felt her other foot catch on the branch and her free hand snagged another gripping it tightly, her hair following behind her in a glorious untamed white mane. Her momentum carried her until she was right in front of him, nearly being stopped by him if it weren't for her left hand on the branch out to the side above her. She stood now within mere inches of him, the closest she had been to him since she had shoved him aside and this would have been thrilling, as it made her heart beat faster for a moment, so much so she could feel it in her throat. She'd looked up to him her face flushed from the excitement of the leap and the proximity of being so close to him, though she didn't understand the impact of the latter until he was snapping at her. Her whole body shrunk back as if he'd struck her, his grip on her wrist kept her from going far, but her face revealed everything she was feeling, deception after all was not her strong suit. Guilt, sadness and fear appeared on her face and her voice cracked a little as she felt choked up now trying to make her apologies to him, "I.. I'm ss...sorry Aren," she managed to stutter out. She winced a little trying to shift her wrist and stuttered out, "I.. I didn't..."  It was at this point he loosened his grip on her wrist but did not let go, his apologies fell upon her but her stature remained small, and fragile, as if at any moment this tough little angel girl may break apart like her mask had when it had clattered to the ground. "I..I'm s...sssorry," she was attempting not to cry as she stood there the branches swaying a little with the breeze catching strands of her hair obscuring her face a little as she looked down attempting to avoid eye contact with him. "I di..didn't m..mean to scare y..you. I f..f..forget others d...don't see t..the way I d..do."  Auri felt like a small inadequate bother and now the stutter that had plagued her for so long in her youth was making an appearance and she just wanted to sink away out of sight. 

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As he snapped at her Aren saw Aurielle physically shrink away from him. He was a little confused by her reaction - he didn't think he had warranted such a negative response. Sure he shouldn't have snapped at her but her reaction almost made it seem like he had threatened her - like she was afraid of him. Ah. Is that it? He wasn't sure why she would be afraid of him, but that seemed to be the case here at least. Aren looked at Aurielle worriedly. Her expression was sad and fearful, and she wouldn't meet his eyes. Her pure white hair - which had billowed out behind her far more angelically than that servant/secretary being he had seen in his vision yesterday - was now blowing around in the night breeze, partially covering her face. Aren's memory unbidden flashed back to the last time they had been this close, a few days ago in her tent. A lot had happened since then but here they were again - in a slightly different scenario. All right, well regardless of how she felt about him their first priority should be getting out of this tree. He took a deep breath, trying to soften his expression. He was here to help her, after all. And maybe she was just scared from having almost fallen - Aren sure had been. "No, no you're fine. I'm sorry. It's just...you can't jump onto a tree like that. Are you OK?"  Aren still hadn't let go of her hand even though she pulled away, making sure that she had at least him for support. Honestly Aren felt that he was taking as much reassurance from the contact as she was.

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As they stood there on the branch Aurielle's hand still in Aren's a soft muttering could be heard as she tried to calm herself to make the stuttering stop. "W..when...n.. t..the hope o..of m..morning st..starts to f..fade in me..." Her mutters were shaky but taking a breath she continued, "I d.don't d..dare let darkness, h..have its way with me." Aren's voice brought her back into the moment and she looked up to him as he apologized to her. She shifted a little adjusting her footing nervously, "A..Aren I'm the o..one who should apologize.Th..That was stupid of me." As her foot shifted some of the bark beneath her broke free and she slipped with a squeak. Her hand in his still, instead of falling away from the branches, she found herself up against Aren's chest unsure if she had simply slid that way or if he had pulled her towards him. Looking down to the ground below then up to him Auri blushed deeply realizing how close she was to him. "I...I'm ok, but.. we should get d..down. I'm a..afraid I'm not much u..use without w..wings." 

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aren looked at Aurielle it seemed almost like she was trying to make herself as small and unnoticeable as possible. She was letting her hair blow over her face, obscuring it under a veil of white. Aren recognized the song she was trying to sing - it was the same as the one she had answered his with in her tent. She was having a lot more trouble getting the words out this time, but clearly that song had some special significance for her. She still seemed a little apprehensive, but at least the song looked like it had calmed her down somewhat. She still stuttered as she refuted his apology, but at least she was coherent now. Aren let out a long breath to help himself calm down, as well. "Yeah...well, it's turned out ok yeah? Just maybe be a bit more care-Ah!" Aren broke off as Aurielle shifted on the branch and her foot slipped off again, causing her to start falling with a small yelp of surprise and panic. This time, though, Aren was more prepared, instantly tightening his grip on her hand and pulling her towards him using his other hand wrapped around a branch as leverage. He perhaps used a bit too much strength, though, as Aurielle was pulled not only back up onto the branch but completely up against his chest. Suddenly a shock of white hair filled Aren's vision causing him to pull his head back, trying to blow stray strands of hair out of his mouth. As her slight weight settled on him Aren was acutely aware of how she was pressed against him. Seeing her blush he felt embarrassment begin to affect his face as well. He cleared his throat, "Ah...Yeah. Yeah, you're right. Let's get down from here."  Aren began to move back towards the trunk of the tree, where the branches were thicker and more stable. Keeping a firm grip on Aurielle's hand he gently pulled her along, continuously looking back to make sure she wouldn't slip again.

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Auri stood there a long moment embraced against his chest while Aren decided the best route back down the tree. When he had decided on a route she felt him move away from her and Auri tried her best to keep close behind him. She was more cautious of her footing on her way down trying to be aware now of the patches of loose bark on the tree which had caused her to slip just minutes before. His grip on her hand the entire way down would have normally been a bothersome hindrance but something about his hand on hers brought warmth to her and helped shield her from feeling the cold wind of the night, bringing her a sense of safety. 'Maybe he really does care, ' she thought to herself as she made her descent. 'He could have left me by now but he chose to stay, and to brave the heights for me.'  Auri's cheeks flushed a bright pink at the thought and she followed him down the tree only letting go of his hand as he needed it to descend down the trunk to the ground. Auri grabbed onto the last branch sliding herself down the trunk to the best of her ability. Her hand slipped from the branch and she dropped the couple of feet to the ground below her dress puffing up catching air before she landed safely beside him with a small squeak. Standing momentarily with her back to the trunk of the tree Auri took a deep breath and reached out her hand to Aren taking his hand back for a moment as she summoned the courage to say the things she felt. "A...Aren. I want y..you to know I am sorry." She hesitated a moment before continuing on. "In the d..dungeon, that wasn't me." She forced herself to look up to him her golden eyes catching bits of starlight and torch light causing them to sparkle. "I'd never intentionally h..hurt any of you. Something dark took me over and I...I'm s..sorry I failed to hold it back." Auri began to feel a tightness in her chest as she forced herself to say the things she was afraid to say. "I am so a..afraid that I am not go..good enough to b..be here. I don't want to be the bother that I am, I don't wish to be weak, to be a b..burden." She bit her lip for a moment trying to summon the courage not to shut down. "I like being here, I like being helpful." Auri flushed again as she thought about everyone in the group including those who had gone. "I like all of you so much and I l..l..like you Aren. You have been so k..kind to me." Her face dropped as did her voice as she managed to choke out, "I d..don't want to be sent away a..again."

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle The next few minutes went by quickly as Aren and Aurielle descended the tree. Aren led the way, keeping a firm grim on Aurielle's hand to help guide her down behind him. It seemed that she was being more cautious now, and they were able to get out of the tree and back onto the ground without further excitement. As Aurielle finally dropped the last few feet to the ground Aren turned towards the street, breathing a long sigh of relief. "OK. Glad that's done."  He said, mostly to himself.  Suddenly he felt Aurielle's hand find his again. A little surprised he turned to look at her. She had her back to the tree and her gaze was troubled. She was struggling to meet his eyes, seemingly summoning all her courage to say something. Aren felt his face become serious as he listened to Aurielle, who was clearly uncomfortable and forcing herself to talk about things she'd rather not. Her golden eyes were sparkling as they met his, her pupils huge to try to see in the dim light of the night.  Aren blew out a breath as Aurielle finished, taking a second to collect his thoughts. "Yeah. I kind of figured it was something like that when the pool water seemed to have an effect." Aren decided to get his own failure off his chest to answer her sincerity. "Honestly Aurielle, I was sure you'd have a grudge against me for what I did back there in the cave. Khord had realized what had happened to you and I...I didn't. I tried to stop him, even." He smiled bitterly. "I guess for once it's a good thing I'm so weak, otherwise you might still be possessed now." Aren paused for a second, considering whether or not to continue. "And don't be ridiculous, we'd never send you away. We all want you to be here, with us...we all like you Aurielle. And I like you, too. Honestly considering...some of the people here now I'm just surprised you're sticking with us - any party would be lucky to have you." His gaze had been wandering around a bit as he talked but now he locked his eyes on Aurielle's. "We need you here, and we'd never send you away, Aurielle. Believe me."

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Aurielle but her lip waiting to hear him out before she responded her voice small but growing more steady. " I'd n..never hold a g..grudge against you Aren." Auri's hand gently squeezed his as she continued, "a..at the time you did what you thought was r..right. I won't fault you for that. I..If anything it shows th..that you care."  Her cheeks were still flushed a lovely shade of pink as she stood before him.  His words had been kind and reassuring, keeping her warm deep down. A small smile broke across her face as she stepped close to Aren, her hand leaving his as she slid her arms around him. Auri stood there just gently hugging him for a few moments. "Thank you Aren. For caring." During this embrace she didn't meet his eyes, her cheeks still flushed but her head came to rest against him for a moment. "And .. I don't think you are weak... Your strengths show through in other ways. All of ours do ." Auri blushed a little deeper at this but if he looked down at her just right he'd see her usual warm smile had danced back upon her lips.

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Aren could almost feel Aurielle's confidence coming back as he talked, seeming to take his words to heart. He could see her posture straightening up a bit and her voice began to steady. As she tried to reassure Aren in turn her face was still flushed but she began to meet Aren's eyes. Though her words didn't do much to assuage Aren's guilt her intent seemed to get through and he gave her a small, still somewhat bitter smile. "Yeah. Something like that. " He said softly, almost to himself. Though they had been standing fairly close together Aren was caught off guard when Aurielle stepped into him and gently wrapped her arms around him. He stood still for a second, unsure how to react. As Aurielle maintained her embrace Aren felt a host of emotions he hadn't let himself feel since this whole mess began to well up in him. Things still hadn't been set right yet - not by a long shot - and they wouldn't be until he had found Kyla again. However, here in this moment Aurielle's support and assurance that she forgave him his errors in the cave gave Aren more happiness than he had felt in a very long time. He wrapped his arms around Aurielle, briefly drawing her a little closer to him. He was glad for once that he was so tall - as Aurielle rested her head against him he was able to turn his face away so that she couldn't see his expression. He wasn't sure what his face would be showing at this point but he was sure that he didn't want Aurielle to see it right now. A small laugh escaped him. "Donny was...was right about you, you know."  His voice shook a bit as he spoke, though he steadied it quickly. "You are strong. Stronger than me, at least."

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle As Aurielle stood in Aren's returned embrace it felt as if a weight had been listed off of her and for the first time in days she let her worried and doubts go. For the first time in days she didn't feel like at any moment she would be asked to leave. Auri relaxed as she stood there and at the mention of Donny a soft laugh left her and she stood back looking up to Aren. "Donny? Well he isn't all wrong I mean I got that sword out of the ground when he couldn't, but as for you. "  Aurii smiled warmly at Aren and shook her head her hair a fluffy halo around her. "You are stronger than you give yourself credit for Aren. Braver too..." Auri leaned in reaching up took Aren's face in her hands and pulled him down to her level. Upon tippy toes she leaned forward and gently kissed Aren upon the forehead. Then letting go of his face she poked his nose softly. "Whatever and wherever your journey takes you I hope you remember that, and I hope you are surrounded by good friends. I hope that includes the others and I!" Letting go of Aren Auri felt a shiver run down her spine as a cold breeze cut into her again. "Uhm, Aren? Do you know the way... Home?" Auri looked around and was unsure of her surroundings and looked back to Aren her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she realized how far they had traveler in just a about a minutes time.

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Aren chuckled a little at Aurielle's response as he pulled away. "Yeah that did happen, didn't it...but that's not the kind of strength I was talking about."  Aurielle didn't seem to quite know what he meant but that was fine. It was probably better that way, anyway. As he looked down at her Aurielle was smiling again, for the first time it seemed since the incident in the cavern. The expression looked far more natural than the worried look that had plagued her since then.  Aren didn't quite know how to respond to Aurielle's kind words, but before he got a chance to say anything he found her hands pulling him down to give his forehead a benevolent kiss, almost in benediction. Bewildered, he couldn't even react as Aurielle then proceeded to poke him in the nose. "Y-Yeah..."  He managed to stammer out. He straightened up quickly, taking a second clearing his throat to try to organize his thoughts.  "Um...well I don't plan on leaving anytime soon at least  I kind of just got here, after all. We both did, in fact." The cool night breeze cutting through the air felt nice to Aren but he saw Aurielle shiver, reminding him that they were out well past midnight at this point. At her question Aren paused for a second to get his bearings. He didn't exactly know the city too well yet but he remembered the route he had taken to find her easily enough. He should be able to get back pretty easily. "Oh. Yeah we should probably get on that shouldn't we. I'm sure the others heard your scream, too - they might be worried. Here, come on." With that Aren turned and began walking toward the house. After a second, though, he glanced back over his shoulder at Aurielle, "Speaking of, what happened? Did that old man do something to you?"

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Her hands had gone to her arms across her chest in an insecure defensive posture when Aren had mentioned her scream, her face had already been flushed but now her head hung low and she was avoiding his eyes again. She hesitated a moment before going to follow him knowing she was going to sound like a silly little weak girl again. "N..no he didn't." She shook her head. "I went out back to be alone and i...I must have fallen asleep. When I woke up... He was there... I was startled." Auri held herself closer as she walked. "I... I'm sorry Aren. I d.. didn't mean to w..worry any of you."

Location: Regalport Date/Time: Night of the Devouring Who: Aren, Aurielle Aren hesitated for a moment, cocking a skeptical eyebrow at Aurielle as she answered - though with her head looking at the ground now she probably wouldn't see it. "Ah. Well, that's good then. I was afraid he had done something, but I'm glad you're all right."   He turned and began walking towards their house again as she finally started moving behind him. "Well. Running halfway across the city might be a bit extreme but frankly I don't blame you. The guy's definitely creepy - and he's clearly not right in the head. I'd sure as hell be surprised if he was right next to me when I woke up. I don't get why the Prince made us take him in. Surely there's a better way to keep an eye on one oddball than to put him in the group that you're sending on an important and dangerous mission, right? It makes no sense to me." Aren's voice had become a bit emphatic as he ranted. He blew out a long breath to calm down a bit. "Sorry, I'm ranting. I just hope he doesn't get himself or us killed somehow while we're doing this."  

Location:  Lastpoint Date/Time: Fuck if i know Who: everyone Tapping back into his old strength was a comforting experience for Thaddius, he may have forgotten who he was but the similar crackling arcane power that he was able to surge through his body was definitely a confidence boost. Turning back towards Father Thaddius eyed him worriedly, He fell too easily, i need to work on his armor or he won't be able to keep the others safe. He reached up with Fathers assistance and unfixed the cloak around the constructs shoulders and began the process of mending the holes. I should incorporate a bite into father, strike fear into this captain ink, As he worked he remembered the mask he remade for Auri and hopped to his feet wandering the ship mask in hand cane in the other till he found her currently lounging with Khord and Aren. Taking a deep breath he re-positioned his own mask to cover his face, he leaned into his cane heavily and coughed to get her attention. "Ah hello miss Aurielle. You dropped your mask in Regalport and it broke so i fixed it for ya, nothin special." he gently holds the mask forward face first towards her. 

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: Fuck if i know (the most appropriate method to track time) ~2.5 weeks post bone devil? Who: Everyone Being on a ship brought back some memories for Kallen. Just a few - ones of loss, anxiety, growth, and newfound focus. It wasn't long after his expedition that he met up with these companions from Bermuda Hex. For some reason, stepping aboard the small vessel with those he knows so little about seemed comforting. The group was different, chaotic even. With the release of Donny and Tik Tik from their ranks, a void had been left behind. Kallen didn't always understand people, but he grasped that it is unrealistic to always cooperate. He wished the best for the two friends on their journeys while the rest continued theirs.  Cicero was different. Not in a negative or judgmental way, almost refreshing. His outlook on the group, though vastly different from its inception it seems, brought stability. And his magic was exciting. It looked like he would get along with the others for the duration of his stay, how ever long that becomes. The many days at sea showed Kallen how well the group was working together. Not a perfectly clean slate after the statue room arguments, but enough that a family was forming. We need to dig through the dirt today to see the flower tomorrow...should write that down, Peri will enjoy it . The fights with whatever those aquatic beasts were displayed further their growth, as a group and individually. Everyone, both new and old, looked after one another in their own way, Kallen thought with a smile. He surveyed the others as he finished his meal. Cicero had a look to his face that showed deep contemplation. Maybe I'll wait just a bit before striking conversation,  Kallen surmised this island held some significance to the arcane user. Thaddius had scuttled his way over to Auri about something; he was an interesting character. Still unsure how he got here, with praise from the Prince things should work out. He held his own surprisingly well, though that machine protected me at its own downfall.  Kallen stood up and investigated the anatomically fascinating structure of Father from a distance. He then walked up to Thaddius, waiting for a chance to avoid interrupting his conversation, and tapped him on the knee, "I'm sorry to see the state of your companion. They did their best supporting me in the fray, without which I would have sustained much more terrible injuries. If there is anything I can do to help, I would be happy to lend my support."  

Location: The Ship Date/Time: 5 Days into the voyage Who: Aren, Cicero His shift over for now Aren climbed down from the crow's nest, carefully making his way back to the deck of the ship. It felt like he'd been up there for days before being relieved - he knew he'd brought it on himself a bit by volunteering back in port but someone else could take the job sometimes at least, right? The first few times he'd been put up there had been awful, and even now he felt like he was about to get thrown from the spot every time the ship rocked. At least when he was up there he had plenty to grab onto for stability. Still, he heaved a sigh of relief every time he was able to climb down. Hopefully this voyage wouldn't take too long, and end without any more fights like the one the other night with the sea hags.  As Aren made his way towards the mess hall he spotted Cicero, also apparently off duty for now. Aren found himself curious about the man - he had been with Peri and Khord before going his own separate way,  back when Aren had first heard about Bermuda Hex. The tales about the group - especially their feats at Tantamar - had been the very reason Aren had set out to join them. He had already been a major contributor in the fight they had had, especially in how he had prevented several spells from going off. Aren was pretty sure things would have been a lot worse without him. Most important, though, was that he seemed much more approachable than Peri or especially Khord. He'd been nothing but polite and even seemed genuinely interested in getting to know the team - something neither of the other original members had been. He seemed like someone who would actually talk if Aren asked questions, rather than completely shut down.  Aren diverted his course, swerving to pass by Cicero. As he approached he stopped a polite distance away, "Hello, Cicero." He began to try to get the man's attention. "Um. Hey. My shift's over so I was about to go down to the mess hall to get some food. Care to join me? If you aren't busy, of course."

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil? Who: Everyone Thaddius continued to hold out the mask waiting for Auri to take it and shifted slightly turning his current masked face towards the tiny man before him. He glanced towards the motionless form of father who silently stood against the wall waiting for the next order from Thaddius. "He's... okay, as long as he just falls and i have access to his body i can always work on him to bring him back. But gladly I'm an old fellow so have some young blood may be of assistance! Also you have tiny nimble fingers. Also couldn't help but notice but did you bite that individual? I don't believe i've ever seen a kender that bites just so effectively" Thaddius lifted his mask for a moment and gave Kallen a wink, which is completely ruined by the fact that one eye is always closed. "Maybe i could lend my support! But honestly i think Father may have taken a liking to you eh father?" Father from across the room slowly nods, his patchwork mended armor creaking in protest. "Also i believe you have some sort of enchanted ring of some sort? Could i take a looksie at it?" 

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Everyone At Thaddius' wink, Kallen showed no facial changes that would give away his current thought, while stealing a quick glance at Auri and Khord: This guy is definitely odd, but can't say he is any more so than the others.   "I didn't know they, ahem, Father held held his own opinions. Fascinating, really. I am glad he likes me though"  Kallen stated, smiling at the hunched over gentleman. "I do have some experience working on bodies, albeit ones made of flesh, just let me know what you need. I could also take a look at that eye of yours if you want."  Kallen tried to make out possible sources to the man's current ocular circumstance, but with the mask mostly in the way this proved too difficult without closer inspection. Avoiding pressing Thaddius too much after meeting him only recently, Kallen continued, "Only if you want, of course. And, the biting thing is a little embarrassing. I get carried away sometimes. Anyway, this ring is something Peri handed me from a trip just prior to your arrival. It supposedly helps me fall more slowly if I find myself in that predicament...again. I tend to put myself in out of reach places. Here, I don't mind."  Kallen removes the ring and hands it out to Thaddius.

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Everyone "Father does and he doesn't, he speaks to me just like the other ones but he won't speak to you or listen to you. But  trust me Kallen, he is most definitely interested in you!" Thaddius leaned on his cane again opting to gesture to father, as father got closer he slowly began to sit down just barely plopping unto father's knee. "Now you Kallen, you're curious about me but i am curious about you. From what i've heard you're very private, do you have family? someone you love? Do you travel for glory? for power? you young people interest me greatly" Thaddius gently pulled away his mask again and from his bag of holding pulled out a set of massive spectacles which he slowly placed upon his nose. At once Thaddius' eye flickered open a glowing dark red iris with a pitch black surrounding it, a small flicker of eldritch energy pulsates for a moment before his eye closed again. "Trust me, it works fine. It makes me see even better to be honest, but i appreciate the offer"  As soon as the ring is handed over Thaddius immediately starts pouring over the ring his other eye sparking with a bluish hue as his fingers began tracing the ring over and over again. "Intricate carvings i must say!"  Rolled an 11 for trying to imprint the construction process to memory, but used warlock ability "Third Lie fault" to reroll for a 21 Almost immediately after holding it there's a moment of silence as he stares a little too long and suddenly sighs in frustration "usually... i can... THERE WE GO MAMMA" He hops off father's leg and fist pumps into the air doing a short little jig, "Mages always trying to imbue their creations from my sight! The doctor hasn't lost this time!" He suddenly latches back on to where he was and gently hands back the ring "ouu my back can't keep up with you younglings any more. But uhmm from now on once i've acquired enough funds i can just recreate that ring and its enchantment!" His smile grows ever wider and he glances around and steps closer to the kender "I can remake any magic item if i'm just given enough time with it, money and time with it" 

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Kallen, Thaddius, Father? That eye was not something he had ever seen before. Glancing quickly at it before Thaddius closed his eye once more, Kallen could tell there was something else at work aside from common physiology. Very interesting. He doesn't seem to want to talk further on the topic, though.  The prior barrage of questions from the old man had made Kallen take a step back. Recognizing the silence, he finally answered.  "...Yes, I have a family and people I care about. I think it's quite vital to cherish something you value. I tend to refrain from talking about myself though, sorry."  He says as he looks away briefly. This man is rather curious about everything. It's nice to see that in people. Kallen continued,  "Youngster is also a relative description, my age is approaching 40. Still, I admire your will and determination."  It was at that point that Thaddius' voice  exploded with sudden excitement. Unsure just what had occurred, Kallen watched him fiddle with the piece of jewelry before handing it back. "You can duplicate this? Exactly what would you need to do so? I believe Peri and the others would be ecstatic to hear of this possibility."  Kallen thought for a moment, If he could truly make multiples of such an item, this is a skill worth recognizing. Is this why the Prince held him in such high regard? Maybe he can...  Kallen had studied numerous methodologies on poisons and other concoctions. The long sleepless nights he spent deciphering the basics was not in vain. But, to further his understanding he needed a push in the right direction. Kallen looked back toward Thaddius' one open eye with strength and light shining in his own.  "I don't wish to pry, but do you have any experience with alchemy?"

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Kallen, Thaddius, Father? Glad to have someone that actually talked to him like a normal human being for once he casually sat back onto fathers knee letting his cane fall into the giant's open hand as he began to straighten his back. The normal frail look suddenly coming together as a man that hadn't quite lost his edge, he replaced the mask over his face. "That's fine, if you don't like talking about yourself what do you talk about then? The only family we really remember is Donny and his sister so I'm trying to regain the memories of my family... Isn't that right father?" Father nods and thaddius continues "soon you'll be like me old and grizzly but i doubt you'll lose that edge. But yes I can duplicate any sort of magically enchanted items or potions. Alchemy? Yes of course I mispl- someone took my own alchemy set a long time ago but this brain" Thaddius taps the side of father's head above him, stops then taps his own head "This brain still keeps all those formulas in check, among the whispers and sweet nothings of the past... future an-an-an-and of course the present" He cackles for a moment under his mask before returning to a calm demeanor "So Dr, what do you need made? Poison? healing? love serum? alchohol? I can do it with time and money" 

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Kallen, Thaddius, Father? "To put it simply, I often stay silent."  Kallen took a moment to review all that has happened since joining Bermuda Hex. Has he really avoided idle conversation like he used to? No, something about this amalgam of characters pulled at him. His facade was weakening. Maybe it was time to push past his previous self-made rules to life. It was easier to stay levelheaded when connections were distant, and that was most easily done by little communication. Kallen looked at Thaddius and Father, then at the rest of the members, and finally back at the old man. "I think we're all looking to gain something by being here. I didn't know Donny that well, but I can share with you what I saw."  At that, Kallen recounted an abridged synopsis of Bermuda Hex's adventure prior to Thaddius' arrival, making considerations to highlight Donny's actions from what he could remember. "...Finally, he and the insectoid companion, Tik Tik, left on their own. To where I am not certain. Pieces of this I assume you heard from the letters though." Kallen then noticed Cicero's fixation on the cave entrance where they had docked. At first, he had provided the idea of scaling the cliff-side to speed up their investigation, but the arcanist showed the desire to continue headfirst into the cavern for some other reason. "Depending on how much longer we prepare before going forward, do you have enough time to instruct me a bit?"  Kallen then took out his old, worn notebook on information he has gathered regarding potions and poisons. "I collected a rough number of plants and items from beasts that we have fought previously, I would greatly appreciate your help in this manner." Kallen is proficient with herbalist's and poisoner's kits, and has collected items during the woods/dungeon travel. He has a basic understanding but more in poisons and first aid, less so with direct potions. He is willing to share a vial of succubus blood and bearded devil blood to hear Thaddius' thoughts. 

Location: The Ship Date/Time: 5 Days into the voyage Who: Aren, Cicero It was as though he'd never been away. Cicero had come to appreciate the ocean again in his time at the Tempest Isles. The Changelings there had made him feel more welcome than he could have thought possible, and their knowledge in seafaring and cargo had helped him to reconnect with the sea and the sky that he'd loved and hated and loved again. The air had seemed to rush past him as he had stood on this new deck, and even amidst the arcane storm conjured by the hags, he'd felt more than content in the pounding rain and lighting lighting up the sky. Cicero had felt alive. The new members had so many stories to unfurl–this much he could tell just by surveying their faces. Such unique individuals, all with fully-lived lives of their own before crossing paths and being selected, beyond all figuring or reason, to defend the Lhazzar Principalities from those who would destroy it entirely. Here now, he stood below deck off a bit to himself, turning the golden oak leaf over in his hands and ultimately lost in thought. The long scars that arched across his shoulders and back stood pale and almost white in their scarring against the blue of his skin, and as of late, he'd been more and more inclined to wearing them like badges instead of the shame he'd known from them. A lesson well learned, but not always well received.It was only after a voice began to address him that he was dragged back to the present, and the Air Genasi looked up to see the young man, Aren. The sorcerer offered a warm smile of his own. "Ah, good afternoon, Aren!"  He replied with energy, putting the golden leaf back a bit quicker than he'd intended to. The outlook of food drew a growl from his own stomach, and Cicero grinned a bit sheepishly. "Now that you mention the fact, I actually think I've forgotten to eat this morning, myself! Lunch would be a welcome addition. If you'll have me, I'd love to join you. Perhaps you'll regale me of your time in the Bermuda Hex? I've had only a couple letters to keep me up to date, but the story is half the fun of an adventure told again, no?" His barefooted steps tapped lightly as he walked beside Aren, lighter and almost floating as he moved across the deck. If nothing else could serve as an indication, this man was in excellent spirits.

Location: The Ship Date/Time: 5 Days into the voyage Who: Aren, Cicero As Aren called out Cicero started slightly. Aren's eyes were drawn to a flash of something gold as Cicero put the item in his hands away rather quickly. He flicked his eyes back up to Cicero's face as he responded. "Ah. Well we can't have that can we? Let's see what the cook has for us."  As Cicero fell into step beside him Aren tried to evaluate him out of the corner of his eye. He had never seen a genasi before, so it was difficult not to stare. It was a good thing he had already seen so many things in Bermuda Hex which he had never even dreamed existed before now - he was starting to become almost inured to the experience.  Cicero seemed to be almost floating over the wooden planks that made up the floor of the ship. His footsteps were light and made almost no noise, though Aren couldn't tell if it was because of Cicero's spirits or because he was an air genasi. As few flashes of what looked like scars were visible on the man, standing out starkly on his blue skin. Cicero's good mood was slightly infectious, and Aren found his own lingering trepidation from his time on lookout fading quickly as they walked - though he kept his demeanor calmer.  "Ah. Of course - though... I think I may have said this before but, uh... my time here has been rather brief so far. I'm afraid my regaling won't take very long. And the events of the time were...rather chaotic." Aren's face fell a little, and he paused for a moment before continuing,  "Honestly, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious about you, as well. The Prince called you the, uh, Sorcerer of the SIlent Sea? Um, I apologize but I've never really heard that title before - though I am still new to the Principalities, so that's probably the reason." 

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Kallen, Thaddius, Father? "So then am I your experiment at talking with flesh in blood again? Seems like you've made promises to yourself to not talk and you're pushing those boundaries. See myself i am the opposite, I used to talk too much... or too little..? either way I know carry myself the opposite in order to counteract that previous mistake. " Father nodded enthusiastically as he spoke and mentally did a categorization of his own thoughts, realizing quickly that the mistake is something of a chunk of missing memories, his enthusiastic nod quickly faltering before getting caught back in conversation. As Kallen continued to muse about Donny he pulled out a small journal and wrote everything he said word for word. It was good to hear that Donny hadn't brought his dark past with him and tried to make good in the world even if it didn't work in this group. "Actually his letters stopped as of late, so that's partially why i came to investigate. But i'm glad he found a friend in Tik-Tik, personally i'd be intrigued on what makes that creature able to stay up all night, i don't know if i'd be able to keep my scalpel away from him" Thaddius takes the journal again and makes a note: Dissect creatures if possible, enforce their attributes into father? or into those around me... or into me?! snapping back to the current state, Thaddius was slightly taken aback at Kallen's offer, he physically perked up then slumped slightly. "Don't tease me, Donny was my only other previous pupil and... I couldn't... I'd love to actually! My proficiency mainly lies in mechanical reconstruction but i do dabble in Alchemy and I do believe i could cook up something delicious " the word hung in the air as it almost sounded like he was physically salivating at just the thought of being able to study and "play" with ripe ingredients once again.

Location: Lastpoint Date/Time: 2.5 weeks post bone devil (I think is how long the trip took to Lastpoint) Who: Kallen, Thaddius, Father? The way Father moved and "added" to the conversations with gestures continued to baffle Kallen. He...it...? Father seems to be more and more alive the further I investigate his actions. Can it reasonably contemplate by itself? I will have to save these questions for another time.   "I have not added humor to any statement in our conversation thus far, I firmly wish for your guidance if you have the experience. It seems that although it is neither of our primary focuses, in my opinion we could become quite successful in the field of Alchemy, especially so when adding Peri's background. I believe she has done some reading as well. Our previous encounters provided us a lucrative gain, let us make the most of what I gathered."  At that, Kallen carefully reveals the two separate vials of succubi and bearded devil blood. While removing and cleaning his glasses before placing them back, Kallen continued,  "As I stated earlier, I shy away from most conversations. That being said, I feel as though we will get along well. Dr. Kallen Aleric, it's a pleasure."  Kallen stands up, offers a bow, and extends his hand to the quirky yet mysterious old gentleman who will likely liven up this already bizarre team. 

Location : Lastpoint Date/Time: after the battle Who: Peri, Cicero, others Peri knew very well that none of them would be any help to anyone in their current drained and damaged states, but it didn't make her feel any less antsy to go and see if it was really Bree in the cave and if she really did need their help. They needed to rest, and regain their health, but that was also a little rough with the smell of burnt pork heavy in the air. She went up to Cicero like old times, and rested her head against his back. Some of the others were giving her the weird look she'd been getting all day, and she turned her face away from it. " Hey, Blue Boy, " she said uneasily. " You're not sore at me, right? I don't understand, not really. I didn't understand you very well on the ship after Tantamar, either, but it wasn't any problem to sit with you until you felt better. Why was this the same? " Prestidigitation had sealed up the rents in her clothes but the sluggishly-bleeding wounds underneath kept re-wetting it with blood and it was getting more and more tiring to recast the cantrip, so she just picked at the soaked bits. " Scooter--you didn't meet him, I wouldn't think--anyway, he was an intern who was with us for a bit then left. Just when he was growing on me, too. He yelled at me about all sorts of things...like me not crying about people I don't like dying, and stuff. He said I was super creepy because I laughed when we found DD's body--DD was a dick, I didn't like him at all, and he killed small animals to cast his spells. And I didn't even kill him myself. Why was that creepy but it's only right and natural for Aren to tear some guy's tongue out and chop off his feet and hands, and I'm wrong for saying not to? " She was trying to keep her voice low, and tucked her head further into Cicero's skinny back. " I don't understand, Cicero. Anything, these days, maybe. "

Location : Lastpoint Date/Time: after the battle Who: Khord, Aurielle Following Aurielle Khord noticed the emotions displayed on her face. As she stopped and sat down with her back against the wall he tried to think of what to say. Unsure of himself he just crouched down and patted her shoulder for a while. After a little bit of silence Khord finally spoke up, "Um... you know. I might not be the best person to talk about this since I was born and raised for war..." Sighing knowing he wasn't going to say this well but deciding to continue, "But sometimes torture is necessary. I don't see the necessity in it this time, but Aren seemed like his emotions was overriding his good nature, which means he went through something bad. You should talk to him about it, it might not make you feel any better but at least you will understand him better." He looked at her and said, "But remember your feelings right now are a good thing, people should feel disgusted and bad towards doing this type of stuff... no matter how much it might be needed. You are a good person and aren't made to do bad things and that is a good thing." He stood up and watched over Aurielle protectively. Thinking about what had just happened and a little ashamed about how he felt nothing watching that.

Location : Lastpoint Date/Time: after the battle Who: Khord, Aurielle Aurielle couldn't say why she had felt the draw to put her hand on Aren's shoulder as he did things that normally she would consider incredibly wrong, but she did, she'd even cast guidance on him. It made her felt unclean in a way she couldn't describe. It had been one thing to threaten with those atrocious cookies she had made, but this was something else entirely.  When Aren went to torture again it was someone else that put the man out of his misery, but she had already turned her back on the whole scene. As soon as she could and while the dust was settling Aurielle made her way across the water her ring not allowing her to disappear into its depths as she made her way just out of sight.  Since the incident down in the underground Khord had seemingly taken a shining to Aurielle and it wasn't long before he had appeared around the corner having followed her. He'd become a guardian in her life and wasn't ever terribly far away it seemed. She backed herself against the wall and slid to the floor taking a deep breath as Khord had come to her side and had crouched down beside her his mountainous form somehow seeming to stay gentle and genuinely trying to be comforting towards Auri as he spoke. As she felt his hand upon her shoulder her eyes rose to meet his under his mask, "Khord..." Auri went quiet as he spoke still trying to take in all that had just occurred as well as Khord's words of wisdom and experience. "I don't know what to say."  Auri's hands felt warm and for a moment she could have swore they were covered in blood as she sat there. Letting her shield and mace fall free of her hands and clatter to the ground she looked down to her hands, but there was no blood there. She'd only imagined it, but the look upon her face before she shook herself free of it was telling, before she had come to Bermuda Hex she'd seen darker things. Honestly it wasn't her first time with torture, though deep down it still bothered her. Necessary evils always did. She slid her hands under her thighs out of her sight and Khord's locking her hands together under her. "I am not one to judge his actions. I've no right." She curled up a bit trying to get comfortable so she could just take a moment to rest and breathe before they moved on.

Location : Lastpoint Date/Time: after the battle Who: Khord, Aurielle Khord thought for a moment as he saw Aurielle shrink into herself. After a bit he said, "You have every right to judge, no matter your past. Just because you have done something you don't like doesn't mean you lose all rights to think about what others do. Maybe that gives you even more right to judge, you know what he just did more intimately that others who are only bystanders. You have felt what doing something similar does to your soul and heart, know the pain it brings others.You should try and warn others so they don't have the same regrets" Khord goes silent for a second as he puts his thoughts in order, before saying solemnly. "Besides you are his friend, it is your duty to caution him from doing things that he will regret, to be his guidepost for when he loses his way. You should help him be the best person he can be, whatever that means to him. A friend is someone who supports what the other is doing but also guides and helps them when they need it. He may have good reasons for doing that. But would the people he is doing it for appreciate him doing that in their name?" Khord begins to walk away slowly to give Aurielle some space. "I've said more than enough. What you do is up to you but if you ever need someone to talk to just let me know."

Location : Lastpoint, Gill's cave Date/Time: after the final battle Who: Thaddius, Aren After spending an exorbitant amount of time to clean off and do his usual maintenance on father, he opened up his bag of holding to look at some of the loot that secured from Gill's stash. Lots of money to be found here... i could create lots of magnificent trinkets for the party... speaking which i should go ask the party about their assorted shiny trinkets. Glancing around Thaddius stood and told Father to watch over the young pirate and took off towards the group again, looking over the party he wasn't content in what he saw. Many bruised and hurt individuals till his eyes fell upon Aren "Ah fuck it lets kick the hornets nest" he began shuffling ever closer and made sure his mask was in place before clearing his through before Aren. "Hello Aren, how's it going? I couldn't help notice that you're hoarding some magic trinkets i was wondering if i could take a look at them? I said it earlier but i am capable of memorizing blueprints for magic items. Also I'd like to apologize i made a quip at you torturing that man, that wasn't becoming of me I don't know your past. Anyways if i could take a few moments with enchanted items that'd be grand" Thaddius slowly traced a finger along the edge of his mask as he spoke.