It isn't always thievery, do I look like a common thief to you? [You wound her Justice, she's far more good looking and talented than some average thief.] Mostly I tend to make the guards not too fond of me, but it's worth it in the end. What's the point of living if you aren't doing something enjoyable?
I'm not too certain it's that kind of relationship, or it least it never seemed forced to me. [If all the times she's poked and prodded about it about it has anything to say anyway, it seems like a mutual affair at least.] I think he was perfectly fine with it from the times I saw and talked to him, Both of them were grumps when it comes to the matters of templars, protective of mages, lack of a sense of humor...absolutely perfect for each other. I guess it's good to know from a spirit's perspective that they mean no ill harm, even if it goes against hearsay about it.
I can't relate to losing any fingers, but I imagine it must have been tough. I'd be grateful too to have all my fingers and dangly bits. [She looks...a little disturbed at the imagery, but that's her overactive imagination to blame. She cocks her hip after a moment and smiles sympathetically at him.] You might be more law abiding than me, but then that's kind of your thing isn't it? Justice and all that. It's...different for sure, but I don't see why I'd be on edge with you.
There must be ways to enjoy yourself without doing wrong. [Go read a book or something, Isabela.
Justice nods along at the description. Yes, that definitely sounds like a spirit of justice.] Your Chantry does not teach mortals the difference between demons and spirits. Demons are the creatures that feed on your vices, and they are the ones that attempt to possess a mage in order to experience the mortal realm. Spirits thrive on virtue, and for the most part, we are content to be left alone in the Fade. I cannot imagine a spirit of justice forcing itself on a mage. Any of us would sooner die. I imagine that your Justice witnessed some abuse by Templars that it could not abide and offered your mage help, or perhaps it was trapped in your world and your mage offered to be a host.
[Despite her sticky fingers, Justice already likes this woman despite himself. She treats him like a person, not a threat. She reminds him a little of Sigrun, and he’d be lying if he ever said he wasn’t terribly fond of Sigrun.] Most mortals were unnerved by my appearance, and they feared what I was if they discovered my nature. Now I believe my mannerisms are the main source of discomfort. I am aware that I do not pass as human well.
Oh, I have plenty of ways to enjoy myself that doesn't break the law. [Mostly. Don't tell her how to live her life Justice.] A strong drink, a good roll in the sheets, It's not always wrong, simply questionable.
I tend to avoid dealing with them if I can manage, personally. Its always so boring and stuffy every time I've had to, always Andraste this, the Maker that, our way is the only right way for salvation and everyone else is wrong. I've never followed their teachings and I don't plan to anytime soon.
[Even if they might have a point in some matters, they never seemed to bend a knee to anything outside of their teachings. If Anders had anything right besides his incessant talk of the mistreatment of mages, its that the Chantry was not the beacon of glory they preached to be.]
I don't need the sisters or the Divine herself to tell me the difference, I've seen what demons are like firsthand. You're too far too honest to be one regardless. I tend to trust what I see over principles, so I'll take your word over theirs. I couldn't begin to tell you how they met, I just know that I remembered he was different from when I'd seen him last. Actually... [She gets a little quieter then, remembering there were things the people around them both weren't meant to know, and the last thing she wants to do is make a scene.] If it really is true that the people we know are either around and about here or taking a nap in stasis then maybe you'll run into him sometime so you can ask him yourself.
I'd be a bit unnerved at a walking corpse too personally, no offense. That'd probably be about the worst of it though, since I imagine you wouldn't choose to come across that way if you could choose otherwise. [For better or worse she's generally indifferent of others unless she has good reason to be one way or the other.] Well...I wouldn't go so far as to call it discomforting, but you could use some work on your approach. You aren't a lost cause though, look on the bright side! You've got all your odds and ends, now only your manners could use some work. A name too might help, or do you spirits like you just go by what you are?
You think so too do you? I tend to get along with anyone who understands the value of coin, especially so if they aren't afraid to get their hands dirty to do it.
[Isabela watches her carefully take out a bomb and examine it, and is a mix of concerned and hopeful for it's success. It's a gamble for sure as dealing with explosives always is, and boat's size doesn't really give them much room for error. Still, she can't help but feel its a risk worth taking as she watches the giant serpent glide underwater.]
I'd definitely be miffed at missing out on what looks to be good money if we're stuck with charred remains after all this work. [And though she isn't religious, maker help any merchant or trader that would have to deal with her or more likely both of them if they fail.] So our strategy is to aim low and hope for the best right? I can try and distract it while you throw, just tell me when to duck.
Well, if someone desires dirty work to be done well, I can't say I'm not capable. [a grin; it would seem they are at least that like of mind.] Vex'ahlia.
[ By way of introduction of course, as she rolls the unlit bombs across the palm of her hand. Aim low..well, that's no tall order, but it's as good an option as any. ]
It's as good a plan as any. Two, to startle the shit out of it and have it attack from the water again, then one directly at its body.
[and, hopefully, make enough of a wound to distract before nailing it in vital points. Like gills. the waters around their boat churn, rocking it some in pre-emptive warning, and Vex crouches instinctively as she fishes about for a match, for tinder, something to make a spark]
All right! On three!
...THREE!
[ And with a hissssssss the first two bombs fly, well past the boat, detonating with aplomb and now small wall of water back the way it came. ]
Someone's gotta do it after all right? Besides, it just means we get a better cut for bothering to do it at all. [And she smiles right back because it's nice to have someone else around who really gets it.] Isabela. Glad to have you at my back.
Making it mad enough to come out of hiding to attack us and hitting it while it's down? Works for me, anything's better than this game of hide and seek it wants to play.
[Everything else she nods at in confirmation, watches Vex aim her bombs at the slithering beast under the water and steadies herself. Likely they wont have many chances to get it right with a ship this small, a beast so large. And she waits for the count, blades ready, focused on the reward ahead of them and feeling little fear and-
When Vex says three, she grips her blades harder as she hears the unpleasant cry of the beast before she sees it. After that its just muscle memory, years of rogue training leading her forward as she takes advantage of the element of surprise and slashes at the closest expendable part she can reach. Which of course turns out to be its neck, and it only cries harder as her blade catches on one of its gills and cuts deep. One of the bombs that had been thrown had made impact that she can only guess from the color of the water around them, and she just grins back at Vex when it starts thrashing away from them.]
Well, that went even better than I'd hoped it would. [And she laughs, feeling encouraged by their progress.] Just a couple more hits and we'll have us one big fish ready to be sold for as much as we can get.
That's the spirit. Keep that up and you'll be out there exploring what the world has to show you before you know it. I'm sorry I've forgotten to ask your name, how rude of me.
Looks like that'll be our only choice until we make it to a city or find something better around. [She just laughs, endeared by her eagerness. What a darling. She takes note of the various fauna in the distance over at shore, but spotting nothing that calls her to park the ship just yet.] I don't know my way around here as much as I'd like to, but I imagine that there must be. If you see a decent clearing before I do just let me know and we'll change course.
Isabela, though I suppose since we are on a boat of sorts it'll be Captain Isabela if you'd like.
[And she can't help but feel a pang of nostalgia at that, because it had been so long since she could actually address herself so, literal years even. It's nice to hear it again, even if her ship is temporary in the form of the rowboat they're on, and her crew is small to the point of it being just one other person. But it still invigorates her anyway, and she just grins feeling the wind on her face.
She leans forward a bit as she paddles, spotting something questionable in the far distance. It looks almost like-]
Say, does that look like a good clearing up ahead or are my eyes deceiving me from all this green and foliage about?
I'm flattered in your faith in me. I'll try not to let you down. [She doesn't entirely comprehend what a helicopter is, but she at least offers a sympathetic smile.] I've only been on the land or the sea before this, I didn't even know it was possible to fly. I'd prefer staying on the ground too if I were you, I'm surprised that you're still here to tell the tale.
You'd be right. I don't quite have the hang of everything going on here yet beyond a general idea, so any idea of where we're headed will help plenty. Or good gossip, if you know of anything interesting that's going on. [If anything makes travel easier in her experience, it's good gossip. Though she isn't adverse to learning more about the place either, if only to know what's ahead for where ever the ship is headed.] I don't have a good opinion of them just yet, but I'm at least grateful to be alive. I guess a change of pace would be a good thing too if it didn't involve how we all ended up here.
[ so she's dealing with a limited tech person. figures that be her luck. the idea of people not getting this shit is bizarre to her, but then again she would be confused as hell too if she came from a time where planes weren't real and television was equal to witchcraft.
ok. she needs to get out of her own ass and into the game if she's dealing with someone literally new to this and they are taking this situation better than she is. ]
We're going to El Nysa - it's a hodunk planet with a lot of the same crap every other planet has. Quarreling cities, terrorist attacks, and people trying to make it to the end of the day. The Orbiters are ok, they're just cryptic jerks who think that they're so cool when they talk in circles. They don't really bother us a lot though which is cool. [ if she had to deal with some higher powers telling her what to do with her life, she would not be having pleasant conversations with anyone. ] ...I'm Ermes by the way.
So there's your standard political unrest, difference in social class, and normal everyday life then. I swear, some things never change. I'm guessing this is all standard there as well too? [She gestures to the ship around them, the thousands of stars out in front of them.] I'm used to thinking on my feet, so if all of this is normal then I ought to get used to how it all works, eh?
Isabela. [And she just nods, taking the wheel in hand and guiding the ship along much like her old ship. Its a lot simpler to do now that they're working together, and the movements are slow but familiar.] If I've learned anything in life it's that the ones with power are always one to speak in riddles and be confusing to everyone else. Also that if they aren't telling you everything that's something worth looking into...but maybe after we make it to land again.
Bela, you're so much more than bones fear not. You could never be boney! Parish the thought. [Hawke makes a gesture indicating the other woman's curves.] You know a much better topic than spiders.
[Hawke shudders. Then leans back, rubbing her nose thoughtfully.]
What if I could sleep and get in trouble at the same time? I need to start perfecting that technique. Maybe start writing inciting phrases on my window?
Well I'd certainly hope not! I worked hard to have this figure, I'd hate to end up all skin and bones. I'd lose most of my charm if that happened. [That, and she'd need new clothes, and she likes her clothing of choice thank you. She grins when she looks Hawke over though, eternally grateful to have her here with her.] Oh I do indeed, which would you like me to go with first? Some dirty tale about back home or just about how pretty you always are?
You'd be the menace of the town! I'm sure you sleepwalking would manage to somehow get roped into even more than you do on a daily basis awake. [It's scary how easily she can picture it happening.] Hmm, maybe go with something like 'The Viscount or whatever they have here smells like farts' or call out the tastes of the guardsmen in bed. I'm sure an especially naughty guess will really get their heads rolling.
[She could in fact talk about herself all day, but it's worth turning the tables to see him so bright and fond. It's adorable really. She just smiles seeing him so animated and eager, because isn't he just the cutest thing?]
Are they now? They sound absolutely precious from the sounds of it, kind of like how precious it is listening to you talk about them. [She laughs. His fondness is endearing.] So you have birds tame enough to ride...and here I thought horses were as good as they got from where I come from when I'm not sailing. I wouldn't have minded having them around though, I imagine they're much more comfortable to ride on. Are they used for anything fun or are they just for travel?
[ He has his charm...at least, until he sticks his foot in his mouth. It's only a matter of time... ]
Ha! You say that now, but I can go on and on about 'em... [ ...It's true, and he will, if she's not careful. ]
Oh, they are way comfy to ride! Waaaaay better than the horses they've got here. And when you're not using them for travel, people race on 'em! Not to brag, or anything, but I'm kind of good at it...
Oh, no worries on my end. I've got no plans to die any time soon.
[Or ever if she can help it, looking back at the various close calls she'd encountered over the years. He works well with her movements though, and she'd never been worried, prepared to take it out by herself if she had to but it was nice all the same to have a competent fighter by her side. It was challenging to side step it's snapping jaws, but she just grins and swipes at it when she can, several scales getting knocked into the boat with them.
She's so distracted with being a diversion and toying with the serpent that when he launches his attack she simply pauses to take him in action, watching the serpent thrash and his fluid movements against it. Watching him land his final blow is especially spectacular to watch, and she takes in the greenery overtake it as it thrashes and gets water everywhere. It's almost pretty, seeing the plants amidst shining scales. The serpents thrashing is more pressing though, and though the boat is sturdy the last thing she wants is for the whole thing to capsize after all their hard work. She steadies herself and and mindful of it's passenger jumps, arcing her blades upward into it's throat to cut in deep and final to help speed along its death. The blood spray is less than ideal, but she's smiling all the same as it begins to slow its reactions.]
Well, consider me impressed with those moves of yours. Oh, but mind the head though. I'm sure someone might find that hideous face lovable at the market.
[ Cain waits to answer her until the serpent's come crashing down into the water, aided so neatly by Isabela's extra blows. He tumbles from the leviathan's head onto the boat, catching himself on hands and knees. With a shake, shedding water, he stands and wipes ichor off his blade. ]
I'm the one impressed. [ He shoots her a grin, then turns to the now-floating body of the serpent. ] But we can't take it all with us. We'll have to travel over land, I don't like the idea of trying to carry the whole thing that far.
[If his looks translates to curse words, the look in Isabela's eyes would equal passive annoyance, and maybe a few rude gestures. Not that she still isn't grateful for him going along with it besides his irritation at being interrupted, but he didn't have to be such a grump about it.
Still, she keeps her smile in place while mentally crossing her fingers hoping that the group of men will just give up, and think that maybe if she was here she wasn't now. And she feels luckier than ever that she hadn't run her mouth when she found them, so they can't identify her by her voice. She thinks of her soon to be spent earnings she literally received for her catch not too long before all of this went down and internally groans. Well, its the price she pays for silence.]
Of course darling, you always did like the best of the best right? I haven't been in town long but I can at least treat you right, like old times. I owe you that much after being gone so long with little word.
[And she pulls out the money to hand to the bartender as he comes over, glad to see him get in front of one of the guys looking for her as he listens to her companion's order.]
Oh, you do remember! It's always been easier for me to drink and forget about if its bad enough, and not quite a loss like awful brandy or wine. Still gets the job done in getting me there too. Although...I think the last time I drank that much was at a wild party forever ago. I remember I woke up the next day missing my knickers.
[Oh, but does she remember. The whispers mentioning sturdy sails and a hardy crew, the endless potential of the sea...she just sighs wistfully at the thought.]
It may have said some rather sweet nothings in my ear, yes. It's nothing I haven't come across before though, so I didn't know if it was just another tempting deal with some unknown catch or if I was having a rather pleasant dream. But you say they've actually come true then? [And here she was guessing it was just another empty promise, or carrot on a string for her to jump hoops towards.] You know, you make a good point. Life is far too short to dally around without at least giving it a shot, right? I guess I can find it in me to behave...just a little if it really is something that can happen.
[She listens to her speak, enjoying how sure of herself she sounds, how well she knows the lay of the land of the place. She can't help but feel fortunate in a good number of ways, running into her.]
I personally think anywhere that has a week of shameless hedonism is already ahead of the game, shows it's not afraid to be daring. And I like daring, its leagues better than complicated politics. [Politics, which were always boring and a tedious chore to practically everyone.] Ooh, I like a woman with ambition. Sounds like you've got a plan then, but I can't help to be I'm curious. What kind of work do you do that's so competitive?
[ As sappy as it is to admit, helping people is one of the major aspects she likes about her job. Money is perfect — it judges not, unlike a lover but maybe her 30s are making her shift gears to a different view.
Or maybe there's a good business in helping people. ]
I work less in the hedonism department and more in mercenaries. I own a guild — originally in Olympia but we're fighting to find some footing in Wyver. There's already a claim here. [ A pause, one that shows a bit of childish annoyance. ] I don't like being told where I can and can't work.
I'm sure you'll find someone to top, maybe just not me. [Okay, just one more. She had to, it was right there and waiting and everything. She just grins, unashamed and incredibly amused.] I've got years at sea under my belt and a lot of colorful language I picked up from my crew to thank for my own. Hard not to pick up in a situation like that, but it at least keeps things exciting.
[Ten years on and off the water with a group or rowdy pirates would give anyone a foul mouth.]
I'd much prefer a nice warm bed but we make do with what we can right? At least we aren't entirely alone, so we can keep watch if we need to. After all, if it isn't bears it's giant spiders, and I really don't know which is worse.
[She just shudders, because bears might be the bane of Thedas but nothing quite compares to giant spiders dropping from the ceiling. At least you usually see a bear coming.]
Isabela, formerly captain Isabela. The pleasure is all mine. So, color me curious. How familiar are you with where we are, or is it all unfamiliar waters to you too? And you're...Dalish, aren't you? [A pause.] I didn't think I'd come across anyone else from Thedas so soon after waking up here.
You're ridiculous. [ It's said with good humour. Already, she reminds him of a few of his friends back home.
She brings up a good point. It definitely makes him think for a moment. ]
I couldn't really pick. They're both pretty terrible, but the with the spiders it'd probably be a slow death. Paralytic poisons and then the slow eating. You know, perhaps the spiders are worse.
[ So it looks like she won this one as well. But, as jokes are given the smile soon turns into a curious line across his face.
Isabela. A former sea captain. Now that's...definitely very familiar sounding. Hadn't there been an Isabela in Varric's "Tale of the Champion." Hadn't he been friends with one? Could this be she?
Still, she has a slew of questions that he won't ignore. After all now he has his own.]
It's good to meet you Isabela, you can call me Senren Lavellan.
[ He wouldn't be dropping his title right now. That could wait. ]
I've never been to this part of this country so I'm afraid I know little of the waters we're on or where we are. As for the Dalish thing, I suppose it's the tattoos that give it a way. [ So that was a yes to confirm that. ]
I wouldn't blame you for thinking that. We're a small number among the waking. A few of my friends and acquaintances are awake among our number. However, now I have a few questions for you, Isabela.
Do you know a certain dwarf named Varric? Famous author, wrote "Hard in Hightown." Impeccable chest hair?
[Well at least he's trying at all, which is more than she could ask for. At least one out of the two of them was prepared to travel by sea, and she'll take up the reins for it when she needs to.]
Well that certainly sounds like something out of a nightmare. Were there any casualties? Did they find the ones responsible? Either way I can only imagine your healing magic was useful through all that, right?
[She's suddenly extremely grateful to have missed out on the whole thing, even though she doesn't understand how so much could have even happened with her understanding of time. It's all so confusing.]
So, I'm guessing Wyver is our destination then? Have you set up shop there too, complete with adoring fans of the feline persuasion?
( He did his part to help research the cure, of course, but he wasn't around much during the first spread of the disease for it to feel like he accomplished much. As far as what happened to the people that were behind it goes, though, )
The attack was an organized effort by a group that marks themselves with M tattoos. Some of their members were killed, but most of them were captured and used as bargaining chips for passage into Wyver. We also found the leader, but he ended up killing himself before he could be taken into custody. ( It was not as satisfying an ending as it would have been had he been brought to justice. But he was dead and out of the picture now, and that was a whole lot better than having him get off scot free. )
Theirs were the only fatalities, though, thank the Maker. I don't plan on sticking around Wyver for very long. Once we get back, I'll be packing my things up and heading back to Olympia, back to the clinic there.
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Justice
I'm not too certain it's that kind of relationship, or it least it never seemed forced to me. [If all the times she's poked and prodded about it about it has anything to say anyway, it seems like a mutual affair at least.] I think he was perfectly fine with it from the times I saw and talked to him, Both of them were grumps when it comes to the matters of templars, protective of mages, lack of a sense of humor...absolutely perfect for each other. I guess it's good to know from a spirit's perspective that they mean no ill harm, even if it goes against hearsay about it.
I can't relate to losing any fingers, but I imagine it must have been tough. I'd be grateful too to have all my fingers and dangly bits. [She looks...a little disturbed at the imagery, but that's her overactive imagination to blame. She cocks her hip after a moment and smiles sympathetically at him.] You might be more law abiding than me, but then that's kind of your thing isn't it? Justice and all that. It's...different for sure, but I don't see why I'd be on edge with you.
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Justice nods along at the description. Yes, that definitely sounds like a spirit of justice.] Your Chantry does not teach mortals the difference between demons and spirits. Demons are the creatures that feed on your vices, and they are the ones that attempt to possess a mage in order to experience the mortal realm. Spirits thrive on virtue, and for the most part, we are content to be left alone in the Fade. I cannot imagine a spirit of justice forcing itself on a mage. Any of us would sooner die. I imagine that your Justice witnessed some abuse by Templars that it could not abide and offered your mage help, or perhaps it was trapped in your world and your mage offered to be a host.
[Despite her sticky fingers, Justice already likes this woman despite himself. She treats him like a person, not a threat. She reminds him a little of Sigrun, and he’d be lying if he ever said he wasn’t terribly fond of Sigrun.] Most mortals were unnerved by my appearance, and they feared what I was if they discovered my nature. Now I believe my mannerisms are the main source of discomfort. I am aware that I do not pass as human well.
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I tend to avoid dealing with them if I can manage, personally. Its always so boring and stuffy every time I've had to, always Andraste this, the Maker that, our way is the only right way for salvation and everyone else is wrong. I've never followed their teachings and I don't plan to anytime soon.
[Even if they might have a point in some matters, they never seemed to bend a knee to anything outside of their teachings. If Anders had anything right besides his incessant talk of the mistreatment of mages, its that the Chantry was not the beacon of glory they preached to be.]
I don't need the sisters or the Divine herself to tell me the difference, I've seen what demons are like firsthand. You're too far too honest to be one regardless. I tend to trust what I see over principles, so I'll take your word over theirs. I couldn't begin to tell you how they met, I just know that I remembered he was different from when I'd seen him last. Actually... [She gets a little quieter then, remembering there were things the people around them both weren't meant to know, and the last thing she wants to do is make a scene.] If it really is true that the people we know are either around and about here or taking a nap in stasis then maybe you'll run into him sometime so you can ask him yourself.
I'd be a bit unnerved at a walking corpse too personally, no offense. That'd probably be about the worst of it though, since I imagine you wouldn't choose to come across that way if you could choose otherwise. [For better or worse she's generally indifferent of others unless she has good reason to be one way or the other.] Well...I wouldn't go so far as to call it discomforting, but you could use some work on your approach. You aren't a lost cause though, look on the bright side! You've got all your odds and ends, now only your manners could use some work. A name too might help, or do you spirits like you just go by what you are?
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Vex'ahlia
[Isabela watches her carefully take out a bomb and examine it, and is a mix of concerned and hopeful for it's success. It's a gamble for sure as dealing with explosives always is, and boat's size doesn't really give them much room for error. Still, she can't help but feel its a risk worth taking as she watches the giant serpent glide underwater.]
I'd definitely be miffed at missing out on what looks to be good money if we're stuck with charred remains after all this work. [And though she isn't religious, maker help any merchant or trader that would have to deal with her or more likely both of them if they fail.] So our strategy is to aim low and hope for the best right? I can try and distract it while you throw, just tell me when to duck.
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[ By way of introduction of course, as she rolls the unlit bombs across the palm of her hand. Aim low..well, that's no tall order, but it's as good an option as any. ]
It's as good a plan as any. Two, to startle the shit out of it and have it attack from the water again, then one directly at its body.
[and, hopefully, make enough of a wound to distract before nailing it in vital points. Like gills. the waters around their boat churn, rocking it some in pre-emptive warning, and Vex crouches instinctively as she fishes about for a match, for tinder, something to make a spark]
All right! On three!
...THREE!
[ And with a hissssssss the first two bombs fly, well past the boat, detonating with aplomb and now small wall of water back the way it came. ]
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Making it mad enough to come out of hiding to attack us and hitting it while it's down? Works for me, anything's better than this game of hide and seek it wants to play.
[Everything else she nods at in confirmation, watches Vex aim her bombs at the slithering beast under the water and steadies herself. Likely they wont have many chances to get it right with a ship this small, a beast so large. And she waits for the count, blades ready, focused on the reward ahead of them and feeling little fear and-
When Vex says three, she grips her blades harder as she hears the unpleasant cry of the beast before she sees it. After that its just muscle memory, years of rogue training leading her forward as she takes advantage of the element of surprise and slashes at the closest expendable part she can reach. Which of course turns out to be its neck, and it only cries harder as her blade catches on one of its gills and cuts deep. One of the bombs that had been thrown had made impact that she can only guess from the color of the water around them, and she just grins back at Vex when it starts thrashing away from them.]
Well, that went even better than I'd hoped it would. [And she laughs, feeling encouraged by their progress.] Just a couple more hits and we'll have us one big fish ready to be sold for as much as we can get.
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Looks like that'll be our only choice until we make it to a city or find something better around. [She just laughs, endeared by her eagerness. What a darling. She takes note of the various fauna in the distance over at shore, but spotting nothing that calls her to park the ship just yet.] I don't know my way around here as much as I'd like to, but I imagine that there must be. If you see a decent clearing before I do just let me know and we'll change course.
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And I'm You-- You Watanabe! Nice to meetcha!
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[And she can't help but feel a pang of nostalgia at that, because it had been so long since she could actually address herself so, literal years even. It's nice to hear it again, even if her ship is temporary in the form of the rowboat they're on, and her crew is small to the point of it being just one other person. But it still invigorates her anyway, and she just grins feeling the wind on her face.
She leans forward a bit as she paddles, spotting something questionable in the far distance. It looks almost like-]
Say, does that look like a good clearing up ahead or are my eyes deceiving me from all this green and foliage about?
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Ermes
You'd be right. I don't quite have the hang of everything going on here yet beyond a general idea, so any idea of where we're headed will help plenty. Or good gossip, if you know of anything interesting that's going on. [If anything makes travel easier in her experience, it's good gossip. Though she isn't adverse to learning more about the place either, if only to know what's ahead for where ever the ship is headed.] I don't have a good opinion of them just yet, but I'm at least grateful to be alive. I guess a change of pace would be a good thing too if it didn't involve how we all ended up here.
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ok. she needs to get out of her own ass and into the game if she's dealing with someone literally new to this and they are taking this situation better than she is. ]
We're going to El Nysa - it's a hodunk planet with a lot of the same crap every other planet has. Quarreling cities, terrorist attacks, and people trying to make it to the end of the day. The Orbiters are ok, they're just cryptic jerks who think that they're so cool when they talk in circles. They don't really bother us a lot though which is cool. [ if she had to deal with some higher powers telling her what to do with her life, she would not be having pleasant conversations with anyone. ] ...I'm Ermes by the way.
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Isabela. [And she just nods, taking the wheel in hand and guiding the ship along much like her old ship. Its a lot simpler to do now that they're working together, and the movements are slow but familiar.] If I've learned anything in life it's that the ones with power are always one to speak in riddles and be confusing to everyone else. Also that if they aren't telling you everything that's something worth looking into...but maybe after we make it to land again.
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[Hawke shudders. Then leans back, rubbing her nose thoughtfully.]
What if I could sleep and get in trouble at the same time? I need to start perfecting that technique. Maybe start writing inciting phrases on my window?
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You'd be the menace of the town! I'm sure you sleepwalking would manage to somehow get roped into even more than you do on a daily basis awake. [It's scary how easily she can picture it happening.] Hmm, maybe go with something like 'The Viscount or whatever they have here smells like farts' or call out the tastes of the guardsmen in bed. I'm sure an especially naughty guess will really get their heads rolling.
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Prompto
Are they now? They sound absolutely precious from the sounds of it, kind of like how precious it is listening to you talk about them. [She laughs. His fondness is endearing.] So you have birds tame enough to ride...and here I thought horses were as good as they got from where I come from when I'm not sailing. I wouldn't have minded having them around though, I imagine they're much more comfortable to ride on. Are they used for anything fun or are they just for travel?
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Ha! You say that now, but I can go on and on about 'em... [ ...It's true, and he will, if she's not careful. ]
Oh, they are way comfy to ride! Waaaaay better than the horses they've got here. And when you're not using them for travel, people race on 'em! Not to brag, or anything, but I'm kind of good at it...
[ But really, only kind of. ]
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Cain
[Or ever if she can help it, looking back at the various close calls she'd encountered over the years. He works well with her movements though, and she'd never been worried, prepared to take it out by herself if she had to but it was nice all the same to have a competent fighter by her side. It was challenging to side step it's snapping jaws, but she just grins and swipes at it when she can, several scales getting knocked into the boat with them.
She's so distracted with being a diversion and toying with the serpent that when he launches his attack she simply pauses to take him in action, watching the serpent thrash and his fluid movements against it. Watching him land his final blow is especially spectacular to watch, and she takes in the greenery overtake it as it thrashes and gets water everywhere. It's almost pretty, seeing the plants amidst shining scales. The serpents thrashing is more pressing though, and though the boat is sturdy the last thing she wants is for the whole thing to capsize after all their hard work. She steadies herself and and mindful of it's passenger jumps, arcing her blades upward into it's throat to cut in deep and final to help speed along its death. The blood spray is less than ideal, but she's smiling all the same as it begins to slow its reactions.]
Well, consider me impressed with those moves of yours. Oh, but mind the head though. I'm sure someone might find that hideous face lovable at the market.
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I'm the one impressed. [ He shoots her a grin, then turns to the now-floating body of the serpent. ] But we can't take it all with us. We'll have to travel over land, I don't like the idea of trying to carry the whole thing that far.
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Bigby
Still, she keeps her smile in place while mentally crossing her fingers hoping that the group of men will just give up, and think that maybe if she was here she wasn't now. And she feels luckier than ever that she hadn't run her mouth when she found them, so they can't identify her by her voice. She thinks of her soon to be spent earnings she literally received for her catch not too long before all of this went down and internally groans. Well, its the price she pays for silence.]
Of course darling, you always did like the best of the best right? I haven't been in town long but I can at least treat you right, like old times. I owe you that much after being gone so long with little word.
[And she pulls out the money to hand to the bartender as he comes over, glad to see him get in front of one of the guys looking for her as he listens to her companion's order.]
Oh, you do remember! It's always been easier for me to drink and forget about if its bad enough, and not quite a loss like awful brandy or wine. Still gets the job done in getting me there too. Although...I think the last time I drank that much was at a wild party forever ago. I remember I woke up the next day missing my knickers.
Aranea
It may have said some rather sweet nothings in my ear, yes. It's nothing I haven't come across before though, so I didn't know if it was just another tempting deal with some unknown catch or if I was having a rather pleasant dream. But you say they've actually come true then? [And here she was guessing it was just another empty promise, or carrot on a string for her to jump hoops towards.] You know, you make a good point. Life is far too short to dally around without at least giving it a shot, right? I guess I can find it in me to behave...just a little if it really is something that can happen.
[She listens to her speak, enjoying how sure of herself she sounds, how well she knows the lay of the land of the place. She can't help but feel fortunate in a good number of ways, running into her.]
I personally think anywhere that has a week of shameless hedonism is already ahead of the game, shows it's not afraid to be daring. And I like daring, its leagues better than complicated politics. [Politics, which were always boring and a tedious chore to practically everyone.] Ooh, I like a woman with ambition. Sounds like you've got a plan then, but I can't help to be I'm curious. What kind of work do you do that's so competitive?
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[ As sappy as it is to admit, helping people is one of the major aspects she likes about her job. Money is perfect — it judges not, unlike a lover but maybe her 30s are making her shift gears to a different view.
Or maybe there's a good business in helping people. ]
I work less in the hedonism department and more in mercenaries. I own a guild — originally in Olympia but we're fighting to find some footing in Wyver. There's already a claim here. [ A pause, one that shows a bit of childish annoyance. ] I don't like being told where I can and can't work.
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Senren
[Ten years on and off the water with a group or rowdy pirates would give anyone a foul mouth.]
I'd much prefer a nice warm bed but we make do with what we can right? At least we aren't entirely alone, so we can keep watch if we need to. After all, if it isn't bears it's giant spiders, and I really don't know which is worse.
[She just shudders, because bears might be the bane of Thedas but nothing quite compares to giant spiders dropping from the ceiling. At least you usually see a bear coming.]
Isabela, formerly captain Isabela. The pleasure is all mine. So, color me curious. How familiar are you with where we are, or is it all unfamiliar waters to you too? And you're...Dalish, aren't you? [A pause.] I didn't think I'd come across anyone else from Thedas so soon after waking up here.
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She brings up a good point. It definitely makes him think for a moment. ]
I couldn't really pick. They're both pretty terrible, but the with the spiders it'd probably be a slow death. Paralytic poisons and then the slow eating. You know, perhaps the spiders are worse.
[ So it looks like she won this one as well. But, as jokes are given the smile soon turns into a curious line across his face.
Isabela. A former sea captain. Now that's...definitely very familiar sounding. Hadn't there been an Isabela in Varric's "Tale of the Champion." Hadn't he been friends with one? Could this be she?
Still, she has a slew of questions that he won't ignore. After all now he has his own.]
It's good to meet you Isabela, you can call me Senren Lavellan.
[ He wouldn't be dropping his title right now. That could wait. ]
I've never been to this part of this country so I'm afraid I know little of the waters we're on or where we are.
As for the Dalish thing, I suppose it's the tattoos that give it a way. [ So that was a yes to confirm that. ]
I wouldn't blame you for thinking that. We're a small number among the waking. A few of my friends and acquaintances are awake among our number. However, now I have a few questions for you, Isabela.
Do you know a certain dwarf named Varric? Famous author, wrote "Hard in Hightown." Impeccable chest hair?
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Anders
Well that certainly sounds like something out of a nightmare. Were there any casualties? Did they find the ones responsible? Either way I can only imagine your healing magic was useful through all that, right?
[She's suddenly extremely grateful to have missed out on the whole thing, even though she doesn't understand how so much could have even happened with her understanding of time. It's all so confusing.]
So, I'm guessing Wyver is our destination then? Have you set up shop there too, complete with adoring fans of the feline persuasion?
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( He did his part to help research the cure, of course, but he wasn't around much during the first spread of the disease for it to feel like he accomplished much. As far as what happened to the people that were behind it goes, though, )
The attack was an organized effort by a group that marks themselves with M tattoos. Some of their members were killed, but most of them were captured and used as bargaining chips for passage into Wyver. We also found the leader, but he ended up killing himself before he could be taken into custody. ( It was not as satisfying an ending as it would have been had he been brought to justice. But he was dead and out of the picture now, and that was a whole lot better than having him get off scot free. )
Theirs were the only fatalities, though, thank the Maker. I don't plan on sticking around Wyver for very long. Once we get back, I'll be packing my things up and heading back to Olympia, back to the clinic there.
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