Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 10, 2023 17:45:54 GMT -5
The question gave the mage pause once again, sending a cascade of thoughts and emotions through their mind. Their dreams of late had been even more peculiar and cryptic than before, and their own aspirations for life going forward were nonexistent. Lo had no idea what they wanted out of life, other than to go about it under their own power and volition. They tried to recall the previous day, all that had transpired and been discussed. Noticing her impish grin, Lo finally recalled what she'd mentioned of places to go the previous day... or at least thought they had.
"I remember you mentioning some... acquaintances yesterday. One was local, one was to the south... the third I don't recall, but vaguely remember thinking might be the best place to at least sort things out. Was that journey still open, or are have options changed?" While it did take a moment for Lo to think of a way to discuss the question at hand, they hoped the reply was clear enough to Sylvari without being blatant to others. Just because they weren't afflicted by the horrors of the Tome, that wouldn't mean some form of pardon from the deeds already done. No sense in making their life any worse, or Sylvari's any more difficult than it already was.
"A wise friend once told me, 'Anyone trying to make the best of their own path while paving the way for others is a kindred spirit. No matter your past, circumstances, or upbringing, the actions you take and choices you make today and into the future are all I will ever know... and all I will ever begrudge a person.' I pledge that I will help you defeat this curse, and I will not rest until the day comes when you can smile freely again." The memory came through clearly for the first time since Lo had begun digging into the situation. Sylvari's words had held a kind of reverence, as if the conversation had been between her and some benevolent goddess. Whoever this friend was, those words had upended Lo's reality, both literally and metaphorically. The idea that someone in this world would gladly take on the suffering of others, ease them through it... expect nothing in return, and hold no judgements... it was as alien to Lo as the mage was to a bug, and made them feel equally fragile.
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 10, 2023 18:47:55 GMT -5
Sylvari dipped her head slightly, unable to show her pleasure with her eyes, as a small smile nonetheless grew on her face.
"Indeed, I'm glad you remembered. Vinny is a dear friend, and I am certain he will make a place for you. I intend to head that way for my oath anyway, so I will be permitted to accompany you the whole journey, if you should like."
Sylvari paused to wrap her hands fully around Lo's, giving another gentle squeeze of affection. "I'm so happy you're feeling better. I know you've been through so much, and your willingness to trust me in some small way is more than I could ever ask for. So don't get any ideas about a debt owed. Friends do this sort of thing for another. Even were it not so, my oath compels me to assist those in need. It may have been dumb luck, but I like to think the gods made our paths to intersect to grant you the gift of the rest of your life. You needn't worry about anyone controlling you any longer."
With her heartfelt words spoken, and after draining her glass, Sylvari sat back, her playful grin returning once more. "So, my dear mage, are you up to leaving today, or did you need more rest?"
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 10, 2023 22:15:53 GMT -5
The question turned over in their mind, laying out the pros and cons to each answer. Staying would mean a chance to recooperate and think, but it posed an increasing risk of exposure to unsavory situations. Going meant possibly putting Sylvari in a predicament where they could not easily escape, but also ensured they stayed safe and didn't cause this benevolent knight undo attention.
"Currently, I see it as thus: Staying is only delaying what needs doing, but poses a distinct and apparent mobility challenge. Departing today, if possible, would be best... but I'd be most comfortable doing so with a means of travel that is neither my own feet or yours as well. If that isn't possible, there's a warm bed and a gloriously overstuffed (normal, but Lo's only ever had a crushed flat) pillow that I'd happily occupy again. Go, if we can, and if not, sleep."
Lo sounded tired again, their last statement drifting off a bit as they teetered back and forth. They let out an exasperated sigh, their body protesting every thought that passed through their minds.. Taking another deep breath, they pushed back and stretched, joints popping their complaints like a bowl of popped corn. Once they were done, they picked up their staff and started for the staircase again.
"I'm going to rest again, please let me know when or if things are ready to go. Enjoy your breakfast." Was all Lo managed to eek out before the effort for more was too great to maintain. Taking the stairs with great care, and gripping both staff and bannister for dear life, they somehow didn't go tumbling back to the floor and crawled back into the glorious invention that was cushions. They drifted off within a minute or so, snoring softly as they pulled the warm covers nearly over their head.
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 11, 2023 8:38:57 GMT -5
Sylvari chuckled fondly, seeing Lo's lidded eyes and drooping head. She gave Lo a light pat on the back as encouragement and resolved to settle the matter of their transportation while they slept.
"It's a good plan, dear. I'll be sure to find an animal for you and plot a course for our journey. I'll collect you again when everything is ready for our departure."
With that, though she stayed long enough to make sure Lo could get all the way up the stairs without incident, Sylvari rushed to motion, happy to again have a directive in mind. She paid the innkeeper for their room and headed out to the city's stables to see what might be acquired.
Of course, for herself, she already had her Frigid Steed, Mercy, that was lodging in the holding stalls. For her steed's sake, Sylvari maintained good relationships with every stablemaster she visited. Thus, she was sure the kind man would have something on offer for her friend at a reasonable price.
After a short time spent looking and examining the available animals, Sylvari settled on a bay mare. She was sturdy and even-tempered, perfect for a new rider, as Sylvari wasn't sure about Lo's horsemanship, but maintained high spirits and had a fire in her eye. The justiciar happily handed over payment and a promise to return within the hour as she retraced her steps to their room.
Upon arrival, Sylvari slowly opened the door so as not to startle Lo.
"I hope you had a good nap, Lo. I've secured for us horses to make the journey. They await us at the city gates whenever you feel up to heading out."
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 11, 2023 9:52:04 GMT -5
Lo wasn't sure how long they'd slept, but it felt like it had only been moments. Slowly, they stirred awake as Sylvari returned with news. Had it really been so long? Arrangements were made? The mage marveled at this woman's tenacity, the effort she put into even the most minute of details... In that moment, they wished they had a small journal or notebook of some kind... a record of the lessons that were piling up from their newfound path and the righteous blade that had carved it from madness and shadow.
"Alright, let's head that way. Hopefully we can stop along the way somewhere for a few minutes if need be, but I'll make it either way."
The mage tucked their robes about their body, once more lashing it about much of their waist and abdomen for modesty's sake. It would also help stave off the likely harsh cold they'd encounter while riding, but that felt like an entire adventure away at the moment. Clutching their staff, they followed Sylvari out into the streets. While the stairs were difficult, much of the road was paved and level enough to ease the mage's weary travel to the gate. When they arrived, a pair of mounts greeted them... One a frigid steed of powerful proportion and an intimidating aura, the other a lovely mare that seemed much more approachable.
"Ummm... am I to presume the big fella here is your personal steed?" Lo's voice was nervous, though outwardly they tried to keep a facade of calm.
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 11, 2023 10:44:06 GMT -5
Sylvari smiled softly, seeing Lo's reaction to Mercy. The charger in question was a prideful creature and likewise pleased with the mage's unspoken awe. She breathed out softly, exhaling a small cloud of icy air and shifted her hooves, creating a billowing frost from below.
"That's right. Mercy here was a gift from a friend in Frost Gale. She is a steadfast and reliable companion, and has saved me more times than I care to count. She's a good girl," Sylvari affectionately nuzzled her face into the horse's neck, seeming unaffected by the cold air surrounding the steed. The justiciar retrieved a carrot from a nearby sack and offered it to Mercy, who promptly snuffled at the proffered treat before taking it in advancing bites. It seemed that for whatever else it was, a frosty horse was still a horse, and she crunched on the food gratefully.
"The bay is yours, a gift for our journey and your continued use. I made sure to select an even-tempered mount, as I wasn't sure of your skill in the saddle. I hope she is to your liking." Sylvari smiled kindly at the dragonborn. "Well, shall we be off? I can assist you onto the steed if you'd like."
Sylvari moved forward and knelt down, extending her armored leg at a right angle with the ground like a step for Lo to use on their ascent.
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 14, 2023 5:09:07 GMT -5
"I'd like to at least try myself first... just a moment." Lo replied, walking over to the mare. They approached cautiously so that the horse wouldn't be spooked, reaching out a hand to pat her neck gently. The mare huffed gently, calmly aware of the strange rider as she watched them move towards the saddle. Slipping their staff into a strap on the saddle, the mage used the pole as a second grip alongside the saddle horn. With a strained grunt, they pulled themselves into the saddle as one leg swung across. Settling into worn grooves, they took up the reigns after adjusting their robes and moved the staff to a holster designed for spears and lances. It looked a bit silly, like a lance's core with some simple iron bands on each end.
While they were far from formally trained as a rider, they were at least aware of the basics. With a gentle tap, Lo walked the mare about the area for a few laps, getting acclimated to the horse and letting her do the same. Once satisfied, they returned to Sylvari's side as she was getting herself settled in. The clouds of steam on everyone's breath, even the knight's frigid mount, made the Draconynh shudder. It was going to be a bitter journey through the Ashlands, even with the volcano having recently blasted itself apart by some cult resurrected 'god'. Lo'd heard rumors and hushed whispers, but the Crown was keeping any information about it's true nature tightly controlled. Hopefully they wouldn't encounter any of the weird creatures or angry displaced monsters now terrorizing the area, but that didn't seem likely.
"All set when you are, hopefully the weather's a little warmer once we get into the Cradle..." Lo said with a slight smirk on their scaled face, though it seemed more like a nervous response than some sort of joy or excitement.
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 14, 2023 11:38:10 GMT -5
Sylvari smiled as Lo swung themselves up in the saddle, surprised that they had the strength to attempt such a maneuver themselves. I suppose the apothecary's medicine did its work. Her worries for the upcoming journey were somewhat allayed as Lo proved themselves to be capable enough in the saddle. They were no master horseman, but, then again, neither was she. At the very least, their horse wouldn't need to be lashed to Mercy: a comfort, as the frosty steed was a considerable asset in battle.
Hearing her friend mention the cold, Sylvari once again unslung her cloak and threw it over their shoulder's protectively. She looked at them warmly, her smile full of compassionate care, as she fastened it loosely about their neck.
"I don't catch chill very easily anymore. The cloak should provide some cover from the environment, at least. We will make as much haste as you are comfortable with for warmer pastures, alright?"
With that, the justiciar, urged Mercy into an easy trot, conscious of the need to stretch horses' muscles properly, particularly for days of extended travel. Such easy motion would serve a dual purpose of making sure Lo was comfortable at a pace more than a walk.
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 16, 2023 16:57:33 GMT -5
"Thanks... for everything." The mage replied, carefully tucking the warm cloak around their body. So much of the last two days still made no sense to Lo... From this intense, selfless knight, to the destruction of the tome, to their withered state. Sometimes they still caught themselves glancing at shadows, wondering at every sound if the next would have golden eyes behind it... but it had already been more than a day, and the Shadow wasn't patient with it's torments.
As Sylvari started forward, Lo did their best to follow the trail. The pace wasn't difficult, but the mage struggled to keep their mind from wandering off. Sometimes this wasn't a big deal, just empty moments of following along. Sometimes though, it looked like the Draconynh was on the verge of tears, staring into the depths of some unseen existential horror. They were, in a sense, the flood of memories locked behind the machinations of the Shadow now free from their cage. It took great effort to try and overcome, wearing on them little by little as they traveled.
Barely two hours, though blissfully uneventful, were all Lo could do. They were starting to slump in the saddle, shivering as the bitter cold robbed what warmth they could find. Internally, they were cursing their weakness, their pathetic state.
"Syl.... SYL!" Lo called over the gusting winds, not sure if she would be able to pick up that they were falling behind. Panic gripped the mage, their throat dry, eyes darting about the snow covered landscape as it seemed to close in around them. They came to a stop in the middle of the path, shaking in the saddle, wide eyed and terrified...
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 18, 2023 10:48:44 GMT -5
Sylvari had kept a close eye on Lo throughout their ride, as she had complete faith in Mercy's sure-footedness. Thus, she saw Lo go through the various emotions that must have been powerful indeed to show so plainly on their face. She saw looks of emptiness, of loss and wondering. She also saw a few times where the dragonkin cried. Her heart desperately wanted to hang back, to comfort them until they were strong enough to continue, but she restrained her instincts.
In the first place, she wasn't sure these feelings weren't tied to the proximity the pair still were in relation to their torment. Sylvari knew from first-hand experience that familiar places would tug at one's heartstrings even if they were dominated by bad memories. Moreover, for as kind as she liked to think herself to be, Sylvari was keenly aware that their friendship could be described better in hours than days. It was entirely possible she wouldn't be able to comfort them, or that they wouldn't want her doting. She had intruded on their privacy quite enough.
Therefore, it was only when her companion stopped entirely and began weakly calling for her that the justiciar halted her steed and did an about-face to come to Lo's side.
"What is it, dear? Are you too weak to go on?"
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 26, 2023 21:59:52 GMT -5
Lo managed to nod, though it was clearly an effort as they shuddered in the saddle. They looked as if they were riding at a breakneck pace, though they were still as a statue. The cold felt like it radiated from within the core of their very being. Lo fought the desire to black out again, the pounding darkness at the edge of their vision. The mare beneath them seemed unsure what to do, though she patiently stamped and moved about in place to keep herself warm. They sighed through shuddering breaths, trying to push it all aside... They could barely keep their hands around the reigns, but they hated the idea of being such a heavy burden to another more.
They stared at the backs of their hands, boring holes in them with a furious gaze. Every fiber of their being willed their body to cease it's endless spasming and carry on. It made no difference but to exhaust their concentration further, until they were all but delirious sitting in the saddle. Something orange-red flickered across their vision in the darkness, drawing their attention to the grey-white wall of snowy haze.
Through the snow blind storm, a powerful saber cat with thin, mostly translucent skin that radiated heat and flames appeared. Skewered into it's side was a gleaming spear of gold wedged into it's inferno lit ribcage, it's thick tail wrapped around the haft but unable to loose it. Delirious, Lo dropped from the saddle and into the now shin high snow. They shuffled along, the world having blurred to a hazy static except this twinkling flame in the distance. Like a moth, they were drawn to it's wild dance while being utterly oblivious to the snarling, gnashing sounds of it's frustration. Their body shuddered and protested, yet begged for all it's worth for any warmth they might find, everything else had become a blur of pain again...
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 27, 2023 11:03:27 GMT -5
Sylvari was too focused on her friend to notice anything around them being amiss, even failing to notice the growing wind and onset of snowfall, unbothered as she was by the cold. She reached out to comfort Lo by pressing her hands softly to their shoulders to steady them.
"Lo, dear, we can stop here for the night. I'll make you a warm fire and we can get some more of the apothecary's medicine."
As the justiciar's attention was directed to fish the tincture out of her pack, lost amongst her various baubles within, she didn't notice Lo slide out of the saddle and begin moving towards a dangerous animal. When she turned back with a victorious smile, Sylvari was met only with the view of Lo's horse running off into the snowy gloom of nightfall. Her momentary indecision of deciding whether or not to pursue the mount cost her precious seconds where she might've caught glance of Lo.
She could sense their emerging space arcana only faintly, and moving out of the range of her awareness [Chaos Touched]. Quickly, she dismounted her faithful steed and began trudging through the thick snow towards her wayward companion, desperately worried for their welfare if they might catch frostbite on top of their other ailments.
"Lo! Don't worry, I'm coming to get you! Just hold on, darling!"
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Dec 30, 2023 1:18:49 GMT -5
'Must get warm...' The thought pounded at Lo's mind, a need so primal they could hardly resist it. Snow sapped even more heat from their limbs, sending a painful needling sensation coursing through their nerves. Exhaustion pushed a dark haze over the edge of their vision, but the bright glow of fire refused it's embrace. They stumbled into the radius of the heat and fell to their knees, throwing their arms wide as the burning creature approached.
As the haze cleared from their vision, the error of their choice became apparent. A pair of glowing yellow eyes wreathed in flickering flames stared back at the mage, it's body flickering and flaring. Soaking in heat, Lo's thoughts cleared and they were able to analyze the situation with much greater clarity. Before them stood a flaming cat, about four hundred or so pounds and with a gleaming spear sticking out from their side. It's tail was coiled around the shaft but didn't seem to be able to dislodge it.
Still as could be, the creature watched them with an intelligent gaze. It probably had no clue why they'd wandered through this hellish storm to risk life and limb, but it watched them instead of attacking first. Beyond knowing not to make any sudden movements, the Draconynh was utterly lost on how to handle such a creature. Nonetheless, their body was grateful for the warmth in this frigid weather. They were practically reverent, a level of serenity that only such a dire situation could bring. If it chose to strike them down, at least in this moment it would be because of their decision.
Thankfully, it turned to the side and unraveled it's tail from the spear. Stepping closer to the stranger and wrapping it's prehensile tail around their wrist. Tugging gently, the creature almost pulled them over into the snow. Surprised, they steadied themselves before standing up and walking over to the creature's side. While the tail hadn't burned them, it's heat was intense and lingered for a moment when they were released. Carefully, slowly they reached out and ran a hand over the cat's smooth skin.
When it didn't lash out, they simply nodded and took hold of the gleaming metal shaft jutting from their side. They could see it was wedged at an odd angle, as if it had been thrown from great distance. They could hear the crunch of boots, the clatter of plated armor coming from behind but didn't want to shift their focus from the task at hand. There was no telling if their body would hold out or have the strength but they would try regardless. Gripping the spear, they half expected to be tossed aside by the crackling electricity coursing over it's surface. Strangely, it dissipated at their touch as Lo braced themselves and tugged with all their body trying to pry the spear free.
|
|
Fighter's Guild
IS OFFLINE
20
Renown
Crescent Isles
"I only bite if you want me to, dear"
793 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Sylvari Dawnsage on Dec 30, 2023 17:14:28 GMT -5
Despite her acuity with night vision [Ebon Eyes], the swirling blizzard cut all practical sight for the justiciar, who was forced to rely on the sense of her friend's gently roiling arcana, drawn like a moth to a flame. Strangely, as she got closer to where Lo had apparently stopped, the ambient lighting grew brighter and brighter. Confusion dominated the vampiress' face until she got within a few paces of the source, which was no longer obscured by the biting frost at such a close distance.
It was a great predatory feline, a fierce hunter that growled as Sylvari approached. She held up her hands placatingly and noted that the beast didn't seem keen on moving. As the justiciar slowly craned her neck to get a view of the side of the creature, she saw the reason why. Pulling with all their might at a spear lodged firmly in the creature's flank was Lo, who was looking quite a bit livelier than they were before entering the creature's zone of heat. It was plain to see that Lo was struggling to extricate the weapon from the beast.
I don't know why you are risking death on this hill, Lo, but I will do my best to help. Walking forward slowly, keenly aware of the suspicious eyes of the great cat on her, Sylvari made her way behind Lo, taking hold of the spear with her armored hands. She was certainly the two of them working in concert could remove the object, particularly with her inhuman strength [Bull Strength]. She would also heal the animal afterwards, if it allowed her.
Sylvari's voice came soft and steady behind her friend. "We pull together on three. One. Two. Three!"
|
|
Adventurer
IS OFFLINE
1
Renown
Dragon's Cradle
85 POSTS & 0 LIKES
|
Post by Loex on Jan 11, 2024 14:32:15 GMT -5
Barely aware of Sylvari's presence, Lo nearly toppled the two over as they pulled the gleaming spear from the creature's back. It grunted and hissed in pain, a small gout of flame searing the wound closed as the feline stood in the deep snow. It was clearly melting a hole, which bubbled and steamed at it's feet. Lo held the spear tightly in both hands, planting it's spike for support as they tried to gather their senses. Feeling the press of someone against their back, they were finally able to recall what had been happening and looked back sheepishly to see Sylvari.
"Ummm... sorry for running off like that... I'm not sure what came over me."
Looking around, they realized the steed had probably bolted at the first sign of trouble... not that Lo would do any different in their shoes. Feeling warmth against their back, they turned to see the feline staring at them with it's fiery eyes. It's skin had cooled, calmed somewhat and taken on a glassy, obsidian sheen. It's powerful tail swayed as it took another step towards the mage. Unsure what else to do, they stood very still as the radiant heat grew.
Despite bracing against the spear, the mage was nearly toppled into the snow as the warm, glossy plates of the feline pressed against their leg. Panic set in, though the warmth called to their fickle and enfeebled body like a moth to a flame. Lo released their death grip on the shaft and fell atop the cat's sad as one might see a turtle bask in the sun. Some instinctive part of them wanted the warmth, even if it meant not seeing another day. The frigid cold befuddled their senses, sapped the heat from their bones, and made them shake violently, painfully.
The Magma Ignalis lay down in the snow, wrapping part of their tail around the mage while they bask in the steaming heat. They could only imagine the incredulous look on Sylvari's face, but the heat was worth her bringing down her hammer on their head if she saw fit.
|
|