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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 2, 2023 21:02:02 GMT -5
Taki was enjoying a day of rest and gardening at home when someone from one of the many villages she'd worked with across the Isles came to the gates. Kamina had greeted them and guided them to the gardens. The shaman sensed their approach, set her tools into their rack and brushed off the dust from her outfit before she walked over to the entryway. "Greetings, I hope you've been well and your travels were safe getting here." She greeted the young man.
"They were, but I do come today with a problem many of the fishing villages and towns have been encountering in recent weeks. There are a group of people selling mundane items as something magical to tourists and it's disrupting many of the other legitimate businesses. Would you be willing to help us?"
"Hmmm... that does indeed sound like a problem I'd be able to solve... I've not taken a trek along the coast in a while either, so it'd be good to visit other villages at the same time. I'll make ready, and of course, feel free to take rest before you leave. There's fresh water from the wellspring and food in the kitchen if you need it." She replied, folding her apron and placing it in a slant lidded box next to her tool rack. She headed inside and gathered her traveling gear where she spotted Rina resting in her hive. "Rina dear, please tell Yukina and Keiga to get ready. We're going on a coastal adventure around the Isles, so we'll be away for a few days." She instructed the Flitten, who roused herself and went buzzing out the door.
With her gear securely packed, she waved goodbye to the messenger and headed down to the river where Yukina and Keiga were waiting. "We're ready Miss, what's the occasion?" Asked the Snowy Owl. "The fishing villages have been plagued with misguided merchants trying to sell mundane goods and disrupting the other businesses as tourists grow weary of the other stalls and goods."
"Hmph... am I allowed to drag them off into the sea Taki?" asked the Tidal Serpent, suddenly looking much more eager to get going. "Let's... see how things go... if it comes down to a fight, have no qualms with either of you enjoying yourselves... just don't get too reckless." She replied, harnessing Keiga and heading out by sea to the young man's village.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 2, 2023 22:27:00 GMT -5
Lillian sighed as she had fixed up her sea side cavernous home after the destructive events that had taken place. Some rebuilding had already gone on in the town but of course people wanted to blame the witch of the sea for the disaster saying she cursed them or willed it. On top of that they now tried to blame her for the selling of items supposedly magical only to be a scam. Luckily most were too scared to come near her home so it was safe however trips into town were becoming far more annoying with all the chatter an rumors going about.
"Fools all of them" she muttered rolling her eyes "Saying I stole someone's voice in exchange for this, made a potion for that at a cost and now all this." she huffed "Superstitious fools I never even id any of that! I fix a locket, make healing things and try to help but no" she muttered and wandered towards the shore outside of her cave. The entrance was colorful thanks to glass color bottles dangling and making beautiful reflections around the space. She walked to the edge of the water and tapped the surface in a pattern. Within moments a glowing manta arrived from the depths greeting her in a friendly manner "Morning. Ready for the day?"
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 3, 2023 4:04:27 GMT -5
After stopping off in the village, and running a strange person off who was selling Conch shells as some kind of magical device. Taking back to the sea, she continued along the coast. Keiga rode the waves as easily as a person might walk down a well made path. She was skeptical of the information that some of the villagers were keen to push on her about a local 'sea witch' who'd been terrorizing others. As they were traveling towards where she supposedly lived, Taki spotted another stand trying to set up and again ran the person off after interrogating them about the nature of their wares.
Standing on the shore was a young lady who roughly matched the description the villagers gave her, so she steered Keiga up onto shore. Yukina landed beside the Tidal Serpent and took a breather as Taki pulled off her pack and gear, leaving it beside her companions. She pat the Snowy Owl gently and walked up the beach with a gentle smile on her face. "Good day to you miss, would it be alright if I asked you a few questions?" Asked the shaman as she stopped about 30 feet away. She wondered how the girl would react, and readied herself in case things escalated.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 5, 2023 13:18:12 GMT -5
Lillian Paused hearing someone approach. She turned and raised a brow with a sigh "Let me guess- The villagers pointed you my way because they think every little bad thing is my fault hm?" she questioned before turning back to the celestial manta in the waves before her and feeding him patting his head as she waited to hear what the person had to say or tried to do next "I assure you I have and want nothing to do with those fools" she added as she stood back up after caring for the creature. "If you want information I suggest the water traders and the new band that has come into town with them" she remarked glancing over to the other to look them over to see if they were a threat or showed signs of distrust
Meanwhile the giant manta rose from the water and into the air doing little spins above the water seemingly in a playful mood at least for the time being. It's back shimmered with stars and galaxies along it as it moved. On the opposite side from the water sat the cave home gleaming with colored bottles refracting light around the area. It wasnt the best but it was home
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 5, 2023 13:41:26 GMT -5
"You are correct in that assumption, though now I might have a better idea as to why. Would you care to assist me? It would go a long way in giving other folks a chance to associate who you are with a deed they all seek to resolve... though I understand if you do not." She replied, curious but no longer on guard about the nature of the young lady. Why she secluded herself, one could only guess, but Taki wasn't the kind to spend time on such things.
With a wave of one hand, Keiga and Yukina wandered up to the shaman and relaxed. This was as good a place as any to take a short break before continuing their travels and gave Taki a chance to ponder more questions about what was happening. Were these folks an offshoot of some grander group? What were their motives? Why had they chosen the Isles instead of somewhere more populated? Had they been driven off the mainland or other coastal places already? The variables were many, and answers thus far elusive. The sellers weren't talking, so she knew she'd have to catch a supplier in the act, probably involving a messy conflict before any solid evidence could be acquired.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 5, 2023 21:00:26 GMT -5
Lillian gave a weak semi cold laugh at that "I save them from earthquakes and fire as everything crumbles and they still believe it was my fault somehow. I doubt they would change their minds for this" she replied as she looked up "I am not very welcome in town however living out here I see the ships that come and go. I suppose I can provide information if needed at the least" she offered seeing as the girl had relaxed some. "Docks aren't too far from here. I will warn you though the townspeople may be colder towards you if they see you associating with me. It is up to you to decide if I am more help or hindrance in such matters" she stated.
She wasnt sure how much help she would be but she was willing to try. Sure the town didnt like her but this place was home. She wanted to protect what she had even if it wasnt fancy and wasnt much. She pet the manta on the head as it drifted over to her nudging against her before moving towards the other two animals to see what they were with a sense of curiosity
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 5, 2023 23:43:11 GMT -5
"Very well, I shall accept your help, and in turn do all I can to change the minds and hearts of the people around the Isles. I understand what you've gone through, having been through many similar experiences in the past. It takes hard work, dedication, and going out of your way to be kind and help others with no expectation of reward. I too am an outcast, one who was exiled from their tribe and home by the machinations of others. It only stops you from living the life you wish if you choose to let it. Trust is earned, not expected or given... the same goes for respect and kindness... one deed isn't enough to change people, but it can be the first step down that path." She replied, watching the young woman interact with her own companion before it approached hers.
Keiga slipped partly into the water, coming face to face with the manta at a reasonable distance. With their front third partially in the water, the Tidal Serpent looked like a worm missing it's head. Taki chuckled softly as Yukina did a little hop and flap that carried her over to sate her own curiosity. All things took time, just as this meeting would be the first step into another journey, so too would time determine how it changed both the young lady and the shaman.
"My name is Shitakibo, or Taki if you prefer. Shall we begin?" She asked, doing her best to impart sincerity and kindness through her somewhat thick and hissing accent.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 8, 2023 17:55:49 GMT -5
"You truly believe that hm?" she questioned raising a brow as she looked at the others expression thinking before glancing at the two creatures interacting "Alright then. I am Lillian" she replied looking back to the other before nodding "I suppose starting now is best. They come to the dock not far from here. The new traders seem more questionable" she replied as she began walking along the water side towards the dock where the ships ha been coming an going. The villagers gave the two a wide birth as they reached the docks, lillian ignored them and gestured to one of the new ships "This is the newest to port" she explained looking up at it
"I can't say for sure but it may be a good place to start I would think. They may have some answers or clues as to what was going on here." she remarked and turned to look at the other to hear what they had to say. She tried to ignore the villagers watching her as she awaited the others response wondering how she would wish to go about all of this. She had seen different people use different methods, some a bit harsher than others
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 9, 2023 0:53:55 GMT -5
"Belief may not be the right term, but I do have faith in the accuracy of my own experiences. Anyone can change their minds about something, given a reason... but it does take effort, on both sides, to make that change a reality." She replied as they walked along the shore, Keiga and Yukina following along. She noted the reactions of the sailors and merchants milling about, but wouldn't go about bothering them just yet... so long as they didn't prove to be a nuisance themselves.
"Very well, let's see what is trying to go unseen and end this before the Isles are tainted by this nonsense." She said to the young woman as her eyes took on a misty blue glow. All about the area were spirits milling about, though they were quite thinned in and around one particular ship. A sly grin crept across her face as she signaled Yukina to circle the boat and keep watch for threats. Keiga slipped into the water, probably to lurk by the boat in case someone tried to make a watery escape.
"I would venture a guess that this is our culprit... stay alert, there's no telling how they'll react to what is about to happen." She told Lillian, then strode onto the deck of the boat like she were a passenger. Someone came running across the deck, thunking their worn boots across the weathered boards.
"Oi... ya ain't me crew, get outta 'ere, 'fore we has ta deal with ya rough like."
Taki turned her strange gaze to the man, who began to visibly sweat across his brow.
"Oh? You would threaten someone who was here to inquire about your wares? That doesn't seem very business-like of you, and here I was ready to enjoy spending some excess coin on the rumored magical trinkets making their way across the Isles." Despite the withering glare, her voice was gentle and calm.
"Shiiii... ummm... Sorry miss, cap'n's down in da hold, I'll fetch em."
"I'm glad we understand each other. No apology necessary."
Once the man had left, she scrutinized the ship. It was more a barge than an open ocean vessel, with a wide, flat keel and short pair of masts fore and aft. The port side seemed to be set up for loading and unloading goods, though the starboard side looked to have the tackle for something like a dredger or shellfish traps. Not the typical kit for a merchant vessel, but that only deepened her suspicions that the men were not only selling lies but harming the local ecosystem to do it.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 11, 2023 21:24:34 GMT -5
"You really believe a person can change their stars?" she asked tilting her head a little as she walked. It was interesting to see the way others thought of things and to hear their beliefs on things. Lillian listened and then paused at the others next words but nodded watching the shift of color in her eyes wondering what it was she was doing growing more curious as she watched the others circle a boat. She however remained quiet and merely watched the events unfold "ah right..." she remarked wonder how the other was so certain but followed in any case.
Lillian kept her head down and remained quiet to avoid any confrontation or issue, her ears flicking to make sure no one was whispering near them. Lillian lifted her head just a little in order to gaze around the vessel some as she awaited for the captain to arrive. She wondered what the others plan was but if truly needed she was ready to back up this individual if needed. Her gills moved a little in her discomfort as her ears perked a little bit for approaching footsteps. She glanced in the direction the faint noise was coming from.
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 11, 2023 22:05:13 GMT -5
The captain was a wraith of man, gaunt and looking starved save for his bulbous belly. He wore black breeches, long boots and a vest that barely seemed able to keep itself draped across the shoulders.
"My mate here said you wanna discuss merchandise? Well go on, what are ya after?"
"It has come to my attention that there are several merchants selling lovely shells which hold some form of magic. I'm intrigued and was hoping I could procure the finest example... if it is indeed what was proclaimed."
"Tch... bloody merchants... what even are you? How did you know it was my boat?"
"Now now... I am of the Orochi, natives to the Bamboo Forest. As far as your vessel is concerned, I won't be telling you how I know, trade secret."
"Of all the fool... Ya bunch o' idiots, kill 'er!!"
"That's not a wise plan ser, unless you and your crew would like to see the bottom of the harbor personally..."
As the man was signaling the attack, having caught on to the shaman's ruse, she caught his swaying hand. With the reflexes of a cat, she held his hand open and stared at the poorly done marking tattoed on his hand. Without a word, her Guardians appeared to either side of her and bathed the deck in their aura. The crew visibly strained, weakened by the debilitating effects it had on any who wished to harm the shaman.
"Scorched Ones? You're associated with that piss poor band of ungrateful bastards?"
"I ain't tellin' you anything lady... piss off."
"Oh? I see... well there's no reason for me not to butcher you and your crew then... maybe I'll even use them for some... unsavory experiments I've been pondering." She was trying to solve this without violence, though her first bluff hadn't been very good. The others hesitated at the mention of experiments, and playing off the naturally supersticous nature of sailors and thugs was always a source of amusement to the shaman.
"Let's see... I was working on a spell that could let your bones walk about while your flesh hung upon a hook like a coat... or maybe the one where your own guts would wiggle and worm their way around inside like living bugs... what else..." The entire crew paled, some dropped to the deck and started heaving their last meal at the very horrific thought alone. A deadly grin worked across her face as she flicked her long, grafted tongue about the captain's face.
"I've got the perfect experiment for you captain... one that would allow you to serve as a breeding vessel for all manner of unsavory beasts." She whispered in his ear, the tips of her sharpened fangs brushing against the vulnerable parts of his neck. His eyes rolled back in his head and he passed out, dropping to the deck like a sack of rotten potatoes. Shaking her head, she looked to Lillian, her demeanor playfully wicked.
"Would you be a dear and fetch the local guard? This is indeed the source of our problems. I'm going to investigate the ship's logs and the cabin below." She stomped her foot twice on the deck, and Keiga slid his bulky frame up from the depths below. At the sight of the Tidal Serpent, those few still standing simply surrendered. "Keiga, stay with Ryu and Keta and keep these test subjects from scurrying off like bilge rats." She said.
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Jul 13, 2023 22:26:05 GMT -5
"I will see what I can do" she nodded not fully sure if the guards would listen to her. She however would try. She walked from the boat looking around with her usual unamused look. The sight on the boat was interesting if she had to assign a word to the strange scene she supposed. She however didnt care too much to dwell on the situation and instead walked to the guards on the edge of the town waving a hand "The ship with the false magic is caught." she pointed to the ship. The guards looked at her then to one another not moving as if they didnt believe however after a moment they stepped forward "If this is a lie or trick witch you will be locked away" one growled as they pushed past her and began walking to the ship to examine it. As they boarded they looked around confused "The hell happened here?" they questioned, as one prodded the captain with the blunt end of his spear. They looked around waiting for an answer to the question. Lillian had boarded again after a few moments however she said nothing and stuck by the exit quietly making sure no crew tried to run off
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Post by Shitakibo on Jul 18, 2023 3:48:31 GMT -5
Searching through the captain's quarters, Taki managed to find the logs and records she needed for evidence. As she was making her way back onto deck, she bowed politely to the guards.
"Good day gentlemen, these men are responsible for the recent string of merchants scamming tourists with fake 'magic shells'. I have in my hands the records from the captain's own quarters, including manifestos incriminating the entire crew in this crime to the Isles."
"Hand it over... let's see..." The senior guard thumbed through the pages, then paled as he pieced together the implication.
"This is a serious matter now, we'll take it from here. Thank you for bringing this to our attention."
"Please thank Miss Lillian, her information and knowledge of the area all but negated the guesswork of where to find the culprits."
"Really? That's... most folk don't seem to take kindly to the lass, but then someone occasionally speaks of her helping others. I'll see about spreading the word to the guard, perhaps at least some of them will ease up."
"Excellent. Would you like any assistance in getting this gaggle of fools transported?"
"That's quite alright. I'll send word to bring a proper squadron." The man turned, looked to one of his partners across the way and gave a few hand signals. The other guards immediately switched their formation, while the addressed left immediately. Once complete, he walked over to Lillian.
"Thank you for your help, and my apologies for earlier. I'll... try to get everyone to do better..."
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Post by Lillian Morrows on Oct 10, 2023 20:39:38 GMT -5
Lillian watched the interaction keeping quiet and to herself as she usually did before her eyes widened in surprise at her name being mentioned. It certainly caught her off guard and she felt her face heat up a bit. She found herself to be even more surprised by the captain of the guard speaking directly to her and the kindness of his words and apology. "Oh it...it's alright. I dont know if they will listen but i am happy to know that some people do not think ill of me" she replied with a small nod. She had given up hopes of any locals actually talking to her. All just believe the scary stories and far fetched tales told by other villagers. This was strange... but.. she didnt mind it. It honestly seemed rather nice that things could possibly change..that people wouldnt give her a wide berth and whisper aroun her when she had to go into town and such. Maybe change wouldnt be so bad. Yet she was worried to her her hopes up too high, after all the higher she built her hope the more she could come crashing down to a harsh reality. So for now she just enjoyed the small moment
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