-Ranger Lodge-

The sounds of heavy footsteps and ruffling papers drifted through the window as Elson unfurled one of the lodge’s many maps upon the desk in Hroth’s office. The ranger cleared his throat before speaking. “As of this morning we spotted the main Gelban troop, consisting of roughly one hundred to one hundred and fifty armed soldiers moving due west some fifty miles here though dense foliage.” Droned the ranger as he moved his finger across the map, demonstrating the Gelbans’ exact movements. “At midday the troop changed direction to an east by north east heading. Assuming they do not change course again they should reach the falls in two days. One and a half if they move quickly.”

“Damn... We’re outnumbered three to one at best.” Swore the captain with a sigh. “What’s the enemy’s condition?”

“Haggard.” Elson answered, speaking plainly now that his report had concluded. “They have been in the forest a long time.”

“Then they’re going to be desperate to. Fresh supplies and warm beds are going to make very tempting target.”

“Wait a second.” Elder Her finally spoke, sounding more than a little confused. “The Gelbans changed direction in the middle of their march. Why would they do that? Why change targets from town to the Falls? The forest is as thick to the north as it is anywhere.”

“Yes.” Elson agreed. “And we don’t know.”

“The falls are thick with magic if you all haven’t forgotten. Maybe it has something to do with that?” Dr. Hemper mused.

“Oh and the Gelbans know something that we don’t? Every-”

“Oh we just might” Another voice floated its way out the office window. This one was different. It was almost melodic in nature, carrying the weight of breeding and class. Whoever this was sounded highly amused. the young ranger sitting outside the window knew as much about it as the town leaders inside. The room went silent as the four men turned to meet the new figure. “What?” The new voice asked feigning incredulity. “Never seen a man more important that you before?”

- Ariannah Lockhart - The Deep Breathe Before The Plunge

A trickle of black paint slowly ran down the doll's ghostly white cheek. Anna quickly soaked it up with a rag and placed it beside her. The toyshop was still and silent apart from the soft, sweet humming sounds the redhead was making. She dipped her brush into a mug of water and stirred it till it became as black as the night sky. The candle beside her flickered, casting tall, twisted shadows of the toys upon the wall.

The redhead smiled at her latest creation, having just finished painting it's eyes and gleaming grin. Then, her smile faded. She suddenly grabbed the rag and swiftly removed the cheerful expression off its face. She sighed as she buried her face into her long violet sleeve.

"I can't postpone it any longer..." she muttered. It was the celebration before all the tiny tots of Amber Falls had to travel and continue their apprenticeships. Ariannah wished that she could just stay here, in Mr Timberfell's store, but alas life wasn't going to be that easy. It never was...

She lifted her head from the safety of her sleeve, blew out the candle, rapped her red scarf around her neck (for warmth) and left the workshop in her darkening wake. She trudged towards the Sleepy Sheep Inn, her hands in her pockets. She felt like she didn't belong there. Many ignored her and some even had the audacity to publicly despise her, but she knew Zeph was waiting and at least that was one person she could count on.

She stopped outside the inn. She could see lights flickering from the windows and many jovial figures moving about inside. Their dark silhouettes reminded her of shadow puppets happily dancing around upon a bright background. Anna readied herself for whatever might await her inside. Perhaps she could just find a nice, quiet place to sit and remain out of the way and out of sight.

She stepped towards the door and almost overlooked the blue hooded boy standing right there. Anna glanced at him slightly as he tugged on his grey kitty. He looked rather perturbed and somewhat tearful.

"H-Hello. Why are you outside during the celebration? Is something the matter?"

As she came closer she recognized him as the baker's son. She smiled warmly, pushing her wiry red hair out of her eyes.

Lydia Chandler, ignored by Baldemar?

Lydia shrugged her shoulders as her words to Baldemar became unheard, only to turn around and glance around the inn. She had noticed that Junior was no longer there, where did he go? She had a soft spot for him. She always had sense of familiarity as one would call.
This night wasn’t really going too well for her; she only wondered how much worse it would be for the youngest apprentice. Lydia moved across and glanced briefly toward the table where she was at before moving towards the entrance door. She knew if she felt uncomfortable, outside would be the first place to go.
And then she went to the entrance door, opening it up to find both Ariannah and Junior there. She smiled slightly towards Ariannah nodding slowly, “Is everything alright out here?” she murmured softly readjusting her spectacles upon her nose before stepping around Junior and crouched down before him. “Junior, are you alright?”

~ Veint Falko ~
~ Looking over Sandy ~

Veint was grinning cunningly waiting for Rem's response, yet when the response came his grin faded just a tiny bit into a half-frown half-smile as Rem kept teasing him with further comments about Veint's experience. It is not surprising that the interruption was god-sent to Veint, seeing that because of it the subject changed. Veint had no problems with either Zephrin or Baldermar, but he didn't really have problems with a lot of people that was the job of a bard.

He didn't know them that well anyway. He had rarely seen Baldermar around town but spoke to him rarely to never at all. Zephrin had actually commented on his formal outfit a couple of times and they otherwise came in contact when something needed a tailor's touch. Because of that and seeing a lot of others trying to interfere in the 'little' fight, some more successful than others, he decided that it would be best that he wouldn't interfere either.

Thusly he left the people arguing to argue and continued into more enjoyable business, "Yes” he started “after this lovely interruption it's nice to comment on something even more lovely" he gave them a knowing smile and then making a pause to let his words sink in "I have to say - even though I am sure I put my life at risk saying this -" he took a step away from Sandra "that Sandy you look quite smashing in that dress, startling so I might add, you should wear dresses more often they bring out your… eyes…" he commented with a chuckle, ready to avoid any punches that came his way from Sandra’s side a silly grin embodied on his face.

_________________

Junior blinked and looked up as he heard a soft voice address him. He vaguely recognized the girl; he hadn't actually spoken to her, much like how he hardly knew anyone here, but he could have sworn he had seen that wiry red hair before. Perhaps she had visited the bakery now and then for some of his mother's baked sweets? He wiped his eyes a little with his sleeves, hesitating to reply.

It was then that Lydia came outside and crouched down before him, asking too if he was alright. He looked between Lydia and Ariannah, his eyes watering again. "I-I'll be o-okay," he finally stuttered in response to both girls. "It's just...it was what that one boy said...the one with the pretty clothes...." He looked down at the ground, hugging Rhyme tighter. "He's...h-he's right, I am just a coward. I almost never come outside, and because of that, I didn't really keep track of things going on in the village. I...I-I didn't know, that someone was being treated badly. It's like he said, I was 'hiding away in perfect little world,' and no matter which way you look at it, there isn't any excuse for that, to be completely ignorant of the things going on around you, of other people's misfortunes...and to just stand by, and let it happen...." He sniffled and wiped his eyes some more. "I-I'm nothing but a coward! A no-good coward!" blurted out suddenly, then buried his face into his arms.

_________________

Ariannah's heart sank in response to the boy's sorrowful outburst. She automatically knew who the smartly dressed boy was and also who he was referring to. She half turned away, ashamed about what had happened. She was the real coward here...

She too knelt beside him, having noticed that someone else had come outside to see what was going on.
Anna began to hum a sweet, comforting tune. It was the kind a mother might hum for her child. Subtly, her scarf seemed to come alive. It extended and gently caressed his face, attempting to wipe his tear soaked cheeks.

She stopped and whispered something to him, "People often say things they don't mean out of anger. I don't want you to take any of that to heart. Would a coward travel to a strange town at your age? That seems mighty brave to me"

She looked at the blue haired well-to-do girl for a second as she got up again. "Where have I seem her before? " she thought. She looked down at the boy again.

"C-come inside. Can't let all that food go to waste"

And with that she stepped inside, beckoning him to follow.

-Irving McChesney-
Irving was rather late to the party. It was his own fault, really. He'd gotten deep into a book about Panteria again. He didn't normally read for fun, but lately his master had been pushing books on him, something about learning from the past. While he wouldn't admit it to anyone, some of the stories he found were actually pretty good reads. His mother had been pretty surprised when she found him in his room, and told him the going away party was starting. Slapping on his nicest white shirts and some plain brown pants (he never owned much in the way of good clothing), he started the long walk to town. His family's farm was on the far side of town, and it took him a good bit of time to reach the inn. Holding his left arm up against his body to support it, as he neared the entrance he put it down at his side. Spotting some people outside, he took a moment to identify them. He didn't know any of them well, but the name of the kid on the steps escaped him a bit longer. Hm... he's.... the kid of that knight..

"Hey Aria," He said, forgetting the second half of her name as he was edging around and passing by the two to the door. "Lydia. And, uh, Shuriken." It was his last name, he knew, but he'd feel worse calling him nothing. Acting rather oblvious to Junior's state and the fact Ariannah was actually out and about, perhaps a bit too focused on the party inside, Irving went up to the door and walked in just behind Ariannah. Looking around at all the people gathered inside, all apprentices like him, his gaze fell upon the mountain of food. Licking his lips, Irving started on his way. He took the long route around folks, passing by as many people as he could to say hello, excitedly calling out people's names as he passed. Irving never stopped for a second, vaguely hanging back for a second to hear a response, but never starting up a conversation. "Hey! Veint! Rem! Sand- Dress? Emeline! Alex! Baldemar! Greg, Orcus! How's Spookin'?"

He took his good hand and gave Orcus a pat on the shoulder, but moving on quickly if Orcus tried a long answer. He knew him well from work. Not a bad fellow, though a bit creepy. Passing by one of the food tables he picked up a plate and started tossing food on it. Swinging up by the bar, he noticed the two there. "Hey Crimcha! Er... hey Will." He always felt a bit weird around Willaim. He had the job Irving always wanted, and yet he had no guts. Like, at all. Least not that Irving had ever seen. He told him so once, and avoided him ever since. Quickly turning away with his plate in his good hand and the other by his side, he walked over to where Renaldo and Malkizid were. "Hey Mal, Lara, Renaldo. You guys seem rather serious for this great party. Did I miss something good?"

_________________

- Sandra -

She couldn't help but frown as the two boys once against started to talk about their conquests. Or rather, Rem started talking about it again. Honestly, what was it with men and showing off? Luckily some far more interesting happened in the tavern, Zephrin, Mr. Fabulous himself was having a hissy fit. It was always amusing to see Zeph pissed off like that and just like always Sandra couldn't help but smile. Baldemar, the miner who she had always figured for the silent type was really giving it to Zeph and receiving in return. Please oh please let there be a fight, it would be so immensely amusing to see Mr. Fabulous try and take on a well worn miner.

But nothing of the sort happened, and all parties simply slithered away to whatever corner they had been sitting. Somewhat of a partypooper. Oh well, Rem had handed her back the flask, which she greedily accepted and was now hopefully willing to talk about something else than his conquests. And he did change the subject, to her. "You will do no such thing!" She quickly said, punching him in the arm with one her world famous arm punches. You see, the trick lays in not hitting the upper arm with the flat of your fist, but with your knuckles, that way it would hurt a lot more.

Sadly the punch had not come in time to deter Veint from making a comment, a shady comment at it. She glared at him with squinting eyes "You're lucky I can't run in these shoes or this dress, or else I'd punch you as well." Oh but she will punch him, whether he knew it or not, he was getting what was due. "Now enough about my dress and more talk about... something else... anything!" She took a large swig from the flask and felt the alcohol slowly spread a comfortable numbness in her mind, a blush started to show across her face that was not from embarrassment.

_________________

"Unfortunately I'm unable to keep in contact with everyone as well as I used to, Orcus. For that reason I'm unsure about Ariannah's current situation. However, I suppose you could go ask her yourself if you want to know how she is doing." Gregory gave Orcus a sly wink and a nudge, considering her to be just slightly below the age which he tended to associate with. He did not know much about her and her situation, and so essentially tried to defer conversation about her from him and onto the girl herself.

_________________
These are a few of my favorite things

Alexander took a very long pause studying her expression ,and as the smile on his face turned a bit devious, it's funnny how quick his expressions change when he drank ale. ''If you see me no I don't like that WHEN you see me.'' Alexander "s smile gave way to what he was really thinking. ""You just said you wanted to see me again.."" Alexander swerved with a goofy drunken smile and then continued...""Nope can't tell ya or even show ya jus yet, Eme, S'not done yet but I promise you'll be the first to see it.....I Think this ale is making me tired YAAAAAWWWWWN!!!!!!!!"" Alexander could feel the dreariness setting in."" I should probly be leaving before I"m too drunk to get home. Tell anyone who asks that I apologize for leaving so early........I Have to especially apologize to you though...""he took an akward bow as he stood up....""If,... When I find you tommorow I'll try....I will accompany you ....so long.""

_________________
I got friends on the other side ~

Lydia Candler, outside comforting the Baker Boy.

Lydia listened in to what Junior had to say as she crouched in front of him, she had felt sadness for him but she couldn’t help but think it was all Zephrin’s fault he was in this state. Lydia sighed softly, taking her hand to lay upon the boy’s shoulder, “Junior, you don’t have to pay any attention to what the boy in the pretty clothes said, alright?”

Damn him, damn that that self-proclaimed Fabulous tailor had no right to say what he did to the whole inn of apprentices. Even she was a bit hurt by what he had said. Lydia shook her head slowly, “That’s right, you didn’t know. None of us did, but that doesn’t make you a bad person Junior and you are not a coward either. You just need a little bit of a confidence boost.” Lydia had no idea what to do then when she had seen Junior curl up, but she wanted to try and hug him, comfort him.

But that was just when she seen Ariannah attempt to cheer him up, she had kept her silence as she listened and watched Arianaah’s own attempts. “Some nice words she had there..” she murmured softly to herself before she watched Ariannah get up off the stone steps and went to the door to open it up.

“A word of warning, I suggest you don’t go anywhere near that tailor or miner tonight. They have been fuming. That tailor had no decency but to insult everyone who stood inside.” Lydia spoken out aloud to both Irving who just came on scene and Ariannah without knowing that she was in fact that tailor’s Zephrin’s girlfriend, but she sworn she seen the toymaker before. She was certain of it. Lydia didn’t much care to go back inside that night; even though she had nothing to eat and she had other important things to attend to first. She was already on a plan to help Junior. “Junior, why don’t you come with me? I have something in mind that you will like..”

"Not yet you don't," Emeline responded, grabbing the boy by the back of his collar as he turned to leave. "Before you go I wanted to do those flyer things. Remember? I asked you to remember for me." It seemed a good enough time to do it anyways. It was starting to get late and it seemed like most everyone was there. She gestured for Alexander to sit still, "Don't move. Gotta see if anyone else wants to join. Promise I'll leave you alone afterwards."

She dashed off before he could reply. The girl headed towards the nearest table, which happened to be the one where Gregory and Orcus sat. She invited the two boys to join her to set off the fortune flyers. She continued her rounds around the tavern, inviting every single apprentice present. Some were familiar with fortune flyers, while the ones who weren't were given an explanation of 'something you throw up in the air- it flies away- brings good fortune- it's really cool.' It took her a few minutes to go around and ask everyone. She made sure to keep her distance from a drunk Sandra while inviting her and was careful when asking Zephrin and Baldemar. Emeline didn't expect everyone to join the activity; most of them were in the middle of conversations while some had just arrived and hadn't even eaten yet. Some might have thought it was dumb but she was excited and saw the activity suiting in light of the celebration. She had made a fortune flyer for every apprentice who would be leaving the next day which had taken her several hours to do. The girl encouraged everyone to come outside right away.

Emeline raced back to where Alexander waited. She snatched up her bag and grabbed the boy by his arm and pulled him towards the door, "Keep running off on you, don't I? Come on now." She was in such a hurry as she dragged the intoxicated blacksmith outside that she didn't check to see if any of the others had bothered to follow her.

Junior began to feel a strange sense of calm coming over him as he listened to Ariannah hum the soft, sweet tune. It reminded him of his mother and the kind of sweet lullabies she would sing to him when he had trouble sleeping at night after having a terrible nightmare. His eyes widened a little as her scarf came to life and softly caressed his cheek, looking up at the red-head as she whispered to him.

"People often say things they don't mean out of anger. I don't want you to take any of that to heart. Would a coward travel to a strange town at your age? That seems mighty brave to me"

He bit his lip and looked down at the ground. "I...I-I suppose..." he replied a little weakly, sniffling a little. He still wasn't entirely convinced, but he did feel a tad better, having Lydia and Ariannah there to comfort and reassure him.

He looked up and blinked as he saw a boy heading their way, giving a quick greeting to each of them before heading inside the Sleepy Sheep. He looked up at Ariannah as she stood up and began to head inside, beckoning for them to follow. He nodded a little and began to stand up and follow her, until Lydia suggested coming along with him instead. He blinked and looked back and forth between Ariannah and Lydia, feeling indecisive as to who to follow. "U-Umm...I...uh..." he stuttered as he tried to decide who to follow.

And then suddenly another girl appeared seemingly out of nowhere, rushing to the three of them and hurriedly telling them to come with her to take part in some activity of sorts involving...fortune fliers? What? Junior blinked in confusion as the girl left as suddenly as she came, eager to tell the rest of the apprentices who were present about the fliers.

Oh great, now there were three people Junior had to decide between! Junior whimpered slightly as he stressed over who to follow, a mental tug-of-war playing out in his mind. He sighed and looked over at Ariannah as he finally decided who to follow. "Umm...I-I'm really sorry, b-but I...think I'll go with her..." he apologized as he awkwardly pointed to Lydia. "B-But maybe I'll see you again later!" he added, hoping he didn't offend the girl, as he really didn't want to offend anyone by choosing one over the other. He began to follow Lydia, but remembering what Ariannah did for him (and not wanting to seem unappreciative), he quickly turned around and bowed towards Ariannah. "OH, um, t-thank you for comforting me...! I...I really appreciate it, miss...um..." he hesitated, as he realized he didn't know her name; the two hadn't properly introduced themselves yet.

_________________

☽Aldrnari - Ranger Corps Lodge☾

Aldrnari frowned as she heard the rustling of papers. The problem with eavesdropping was that she couldn't see what any of the adults were looking at, so she had no idea where exactly on the map Elson was pointing to. Thanks to his specific report though, she had a general idea of where the army was. She had been that far into the woods only once, following a monster of a bear with Hroth. It was too dangerous to just leave be, as it was straying nearer and nearer the village to hunt. Now it served as a rug in the great room of the lodge, just in front of the main fireplace. That far out in the forest was crowded close with huge trees and densely tangled with undergrowth, almost impossible to navigate. It would take the army some time yet to wind their way through the trees and hack their way through the undergrowth. Though, the frightening thing was that their going was only going to get faster and faster as they got closer to the falls, and to the town.

The fact that Elson said they were worn out was good, for the moment. It said that the army was going to be moving slowly, even more slowly than just having to navigate the thick wilds would. Which made the fact that they were heading to the falls all the more puzzling. Yes, the falls were magic, everyone in town knew that, but Aldrnari wasn't sure what exactly the magic did. SHe hadn't heard of anyone ever trying to take the magic water for their own though, but then again, she hadn't been expected to closely study the history of the town. While a possibility, that wasn't the only potential situation at hand. Maybe another theory would present itself as Aldrnari listened.

Or it wouldn't, as it turned out. There was a stranger in the lodge. A noble of some sort, by the pompous note in his voice. It was very strange. She hadn't heard the telltale stomp of boots on the wood floor, but this man was obviously in the doorway, come in while she was sitting listening to the men speak. That was one of the reasons why Hroth's office made such a terrible meeting place when there was only one ranger in the lodge. It was fine if the meeting were all rangers, for they would hear the footfalls on the wood floors, and take any intruders by surprise. It was for this very reason that the floor was raised several inches from the dirt below it, not that any of the villagers ever noticed. The only place where there was a gap wider than that between the floor and the earth was the root cellar, but that was hidden at the back of the lodge, directly below and connected to the kitchen. Feeling uneasy, Aldrnari quietly pulled her bow off of her shoulder, and drew one of her arrows from her quiver, and nocking it to her bow every bit as silently as she had been trained to. Noble or not, there was an intruder in her home, and if he did anything dangerous, Aldrnari would pop up from her hiding spot and shoot him without a second thought.

_________________
Zath: Behold, Karo: The only woman in existence who can make Fenix shut the fuck up.
Redsnow: That, and, frankly, if Karo doesn't like you that much, your character is probably going to die soon after his acceptance anyway.
Keiran: Bad RPs don't get picked, unmemberable RPs get ignored.
Zelosse: I don't usually laugh at blatant attitude, but when I do. It usually involves Karo.

Ariannah smiled and nodded at the tiny tot.

"My pleasure. my name is Anna by the way. Sorry for not mentioning it sooner" she said as a boy suddenly stepped through the entrance from behind her. he seemed to greet them all vaguely and disappeared inside before she could return the greeting.
She winced slightly as the blue haired girl suddenly began to berate Zeph. What he did was inexcusable but he must've been put under a lot of pressure to crack like that. She then mentioned the "Miner". Who was this again? It did ring a bell, but then again Anna didn't know many people in town. She hoped that there wasn't a scuffle.

Anna, noticing rapid movement towards the door, quickly stepped aside as a few kids hurriedly rushed out of the Inn. Something about fortune fliers? It was all a blur that left her a bit bewildered. She swiftly slid inside before anyone else decided to leave and found herself confronted with tables stacked with delicious food and drinks. All around her the local apprentices were either talking or eating. She looked around for Zeph, hoping that he was ok. She shyly moved towards a table and ,with her normal hand, grabbed a plate. It all looked so good and she hadn't eaten anything decent for hours. Keeping her other hand hidden within her pocket, she piled an array of meats and veg upon her plate and then looked around nervously for a quiet place to sit.

Lydia waited patiently for Junior’s decision of where to go, it must have been hard for him to decide whether to go back inside with Ariannah whom she simply nodded and smiled when she had told them her name, leave the inn with her or go with the girl who had suddenly came outside with the fortune fliers. What is this? Lydia had looked thoughtful for a moment, the fortune fliers seemed like a good thing to do, but she was already set in showing Junior what she had planned. She was certain Junior would like what is in store for him.

The apprentice clockmaker smiled lightly as she heard Junior’s decision and held out her hand towards him, “Come along then.” She waited until she watched him begin to follow her, keeping a steady pace as they both began to walk down the cobbled streets.

It would seem that Lydia was leading them the way towards the young apprentice’s grandfather’s clock shop. The girl stepped up to the entrance door and peeked inside through the glass door, it was all dark inside except for a light coming from a back room. The girl opened the door with a spare key, and motioned for Junior to come inside before closing the door behind them.

Even though it was dark she took Junior’s hand and carefully led him closer to the lit background, “Grandfather, are you here?” after a reply, she let go of Junior's hand, glancing towards him. “Just wait here for a moment, okay?”

Ask her, myself? he repeated, his face turning blank again, both from the possibility of talking to someone else about what was surely a sensitive subject, and talking to a girl about it, a young one too. He didn't have much experience with them, but they seemed to be loud, shrill and a unpredictable when emotional from whenst he'd had to talk to them. That sly wink and nudge didn't help matters either, which Orcus decided was best to just completely ignore before they made things worse instead of frowning at the familiarity like he should have. Anyone looking for it may have noticed the possibility of a little confusion inside him as he struggled with the proposition. I..suppose that would be a possibility. he said, that little hesitation betrayed in his voice just serving to make him feel worse, this was exactly why Spooks didn't socialise, it gave the impression that they were human.

He really didn't want to ask her himself, he didn't want to ask anyone really, the only reason he'd asked Gregory was because he was already talking to him. His grip on his staff tightened slightly as he wrestled with the proposition, slowly forcing himself over to the idea that he really should look into this himself, when fortune spared him for now with another duty in the form of carpenter girl. Besides, he couldn't quite remember what she looked like, apart from the hand detail. He was pretty sure she was a short redheaded girl, but that kept leading him to think she was a baker for some reason whilst he was positive she was a toymaker. He must be getting two girls mixed up, very embarrassing, Frost would have punished him if he discoved a blip like that. I shall leave it as it is for now. he said, back to his normal emotionless self thanks to the dealt-with-problem. She is leaving this town with us tonight I assume, along with any bullies. So there is no point in bringing up upsetting memories whilst this current problem is being solved.

He rose from his seat as he answered and left his staff balancing perfectly on the ground, the old warped staff staying upright on it's own as Orcus swiftly pulled his hood down, wrapped his old scarf around himself and pulled the hood back up, looking away from Gregory so he wouldn't notice the bruises or even just get a good look at him. It is time I bid you good evening and good fortune Gregory. he started, his formal tone adding to the monotomy of his voice. I am sure we will talk again at some point but as for now, goodbye. As he spun towards the door, stepping forward, he grabbed his staff from it's resting point and strode out, keeping as straight a path as possible as he nudged, stepped ar simply strode through the few groups at the exit, it helped that paths in crowds had a tendacy to open up for him, one minor bonus to being a spook, or any other profession such as guards or doctors. People got out of the way of emergency services, plus, being rumoured as a class-A creep in a profession full of class-A creeps helped a little. Pardon me. he muttered politely as he stepped towards the back of Ariannah, the staff being on one side or her, his arm above her and his body on her other side as he walked past, his cloak brushing against her slightly before he swiftly passed on and out after Emeline.

_________________
“One day you wake up and realize the world can be conquered.”

{At the Bar}

Crimcha nodded with a smile as he stood by William. "Happy to help, buddy. If you need anything else, just ask. I'll just be nearby eating." He moved over to a nearby seat looking over the bar counter and began moving on toward his ham slices, using his fork to fold them up to make them easier to chew at. His bright eyes began surveying the room again, noticing how many of the others had moved away to new areas.

Wait... Maybe I could get Zephrin to make a smaller poncho like this one? He pondered, a large piece of ham hanging from his lips. Goodie! I'm sure he'd love to work on it. And I'd finally have something that didn't... He looked down as he noticed he had shifted too much and caused his collar to push up over his chin. He pushed it back down, trying to wipe away the bit of greasy ham juice that was now at the top of his poncho.

He looked up as someone called his name, waving while holding his poncho in a napkin in his left hand. "Hiya, Irving!" He called back, the frilled poncho flickering in the air as he waved at the other boy. Crimcha then went back to trying to clean off the small, barely noticeable stain, grumbling under his breath.

_________________

Junior nodded his head to Ariannah as she told them her name. "Oh, okay. I'm Junior, by the way," he returned the introduction before following after Lydia. "Well, um, it was really nice to meet you, Anna! Hope to see you later!" he called back to her as Ariannah headed inside the Sleepy Sheep. Junior turned around and followed behind Lydia as she led him away down the streets. Junior looked around him, somewhat in awe. For as long as he had lived here in Amber Falls, he had never realized how pretty and peaceful everything looked at night, under the moon and stars' light. Oh, certainly he had looked down at the village from his bedroom window, and he had seen the stars so many times before falling asleep, but this was the first time he had actually stepped outside at night, and it truly felt like a different experience than seeing all this from his window.

Finally, it seemed the two reached their destination. Junior peeked up at the clock shop, noticing how dark it was inside, save for a small light in the back. He nodded silently and followed Lydia inside after she opened the glass door, following behind her as she led him by the hand through the darkness and into the light. He looked at Lydia as she let go of his hand and told him to wait there. "Oh, o-okay," he replied in a whisper, subconsciously feeling as though they had to be silent and not disturb the calmness of the dark.

_________________

Lydia left Junior alone, but there was still a soft warm glow from the open door coming toward him, enough so he can see the small lit space around him, should he panic the light was there. All that could be heard from outside the backroom was the almost whispering voices of Lydia and her grandfather.

“Hello Grandfather, would it be alright if I gift one of our creations away to a friend? He could use some cheering up.”

“I don’t see why not, who is the friend?”

“Kurokage Shuriken Jr, the baker apprentice.”

“The son of the Amber Falls Knight” Lydia’s grandfather looked amused before nodding, “Then most certainly.” Lydia smiled, “You are the best grandfather.” The girl hugged him and then taken one of the most recently made smaller hourglasses from the shelves in the backroom, she thought it would be one of the most easiest clocks to use and it would help the boy with his baking, but there was also one thing else she had planned to give him. A leather-bound journal from under the desk, she knew still was unused, sure her grandfather thought it was fine to take.

The girl had all she needed and then went back outside to where the boy stood, holding the journal and small hourglass toward him, the hourglass of which was beautiful clear glass with almost white sand and gold metal frame which had a rather beautiful and intricate design on the top and bottom. “Hey Junior, I thought you might like these. They are to help you with your baking, the hourglass to measure the time and a journal to record all your recipes.” She smiled kindly towards him.

Junior watched as Lydia disappeared into the backroom. He looked around him curiously as he waited, looking in wonder at all the different sort of clocks that laid around the shop or on the walls, or some that were left disassembled on top of tables, perhaps waiting to be fixed and put back together. He'd never seen so many clocks before, and he marveled at the designs of some of the clocks that hung on the walls, especially the ones that looked like they were designed as bird houses or log cabins.

Junior looked back to the door as Lydia came back, his eyes lighting up in awe ans she held out to him a leather-bound journal and the most beautiful hourglass he had ever seen in his entire life! He looked up at Lydia's face, his eyes wide and incredulous as she offered the gifts to him. "R-Really? This is for me?" he asked her as he took the precious gifts in his hands, a large smile spreading on his face as he stared at the small hourglass, the gold frame and glass glittering from the dim light. He set the leather journal and hourglass down on top of the nearest table he could find and then threw his arms around Lydia, hugging her tightly. "Thank you so much, Lydia! I love them so much, and I'll make sure to take really, really good care of your gifts!" he thanked her happily, the gifts having succeeded in cheering him up, just as Lydia had hoped.

_________________

Sabeam Nightshade – At the bar...

There was shouting and yelling either due to a drunken brawl or just because some people just cannot get along, 'there is no lets hold hands together and praise unity here,' she thought while ordering a drink of water while changing her mind about leaving her items anywhere. 'Someone might rummage through my belongings,' the fletcher thought again while adjusting herself on the wooden bar stool. A clay cup was placed in front of the young teen filled with cool clear water to which she drank the fluid and sighed. Others were also at the bar trying to either socialize, while forgetting about the argument or were just trying to have a drink. Sabeam never really ever took her raven hair down so she figured that nobody recognized her this way, 'that's positive' she though while taking another sip of her water. 'After dealing with that strange girl from before I really just don't want to even go there.' The fletcher thought again silently while leaning forward slightly resting her arms on the wooden bar.

The young woman with the violet eyes waited for things to die down, relatively speaking, so that she may attempted to try and get herself some food once again, hoping that someone would not try to bother her. She scanned around the dining hall while noticing that things still seemed a little tense but have subsided, for the moment. She picked up her bag slumping a strap over her shoulder and started making her way over to the table where the food was laid out. 'Mashed Potatoes, gravy, chicken thighs, lingonberries, butter drowned green beans!' She thought while her mouth started to water again to which she picked up a simple plated and again started to gather foods that she loved and enjoyed. The her eye spotted that cake, the monster cake that was a towering fortress of confectionery delight. "I'll come back for you..." she spoke under her breath while heading over to a table that was quite vacant to which she immediately sat down and slowly started to eat her meal, savoring each little morsel.

_________________
You've tried so hard until now, you needn't blame yourself.
You've treasured your Rose Signet until now.
I shall give you a kiss as your reward.
This is your consolation.

Baldemar: Back to Basic.

Baldemar sat in a darker part of the bar overthinking what had happened. That prick actually had the guts to say everybody in the village where cowards. He could understand that some where less adventurous like that kid junior but cowards. But what really stung him was that Zephrin called him a bully He was not a bully was he? As he was contemplating this That silent girl Sabeam sat down at the same table she must not have noticed him. Hi how are you? He asked carefully not to startle her. Baldemar then blurted out. I know whe havent seen each other often but I'm not a bully right? I've never pestered anybody exept Seams but thats just harmless fun. I cant even remember A time when I havent at least helped somebody in the village. He looked at her with eyes like she knew all the anwsers he needed/

_________________
Dragonborn Dragonborn, by his honour is sworn, to keep evil forever at bay
and the fiercest foes rout, when they hear triumph's shout.

Dragonborn for your blessing we pray, and the scrolls have fortold, of black wings in the cold
that when brothers wage war come unfurled, Alduin bane of kings, ancient shadow unbound
with a hunger to swallow the world.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9eGtyqz4gY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j50u0zUeCmU

Sabeam Nightshade - A table thought abandoned...

Sabeam sat there in silence while enjoying her meal, not even noticing the rather tall young man with the deep earthy tan flesh. The raven haired woman sat there eating her scrumptious meal when she heard a male voice speak with a sort of odd tone, to her.

Hi how are you?
Just before she was able to say something Baldemar immediately spoke.
I know we haven't seen each other often but I'm not a bully right? I've never pestered anybody except Seams but that's just harmless fun. I can't even remember A time when I haven't at least helped somebody in the village.

He seemed to ramble on as the fletcher just listened to him speak, granted he was not like that other girl who was out right hitting on her just after one sip of ale. 'Maybe I should try this socializing thing one more time...this one doesn't seem too strange.' The teen thought silently while turning her attention to the other. It then dawned on her that this was one of the young ones that were in that argument. With a sigh she spoke while keeping her violet eyes on him. "To be quite honest I know very little about you, the things that I have heard though the proverbial grape vine is that you lost your father in that cave in that happened a while back," she paused while taking a napkin, cleaning off some of the butter of her finger tips, "I heard from Donovan that you didn't stop hammering and picking at that rock...from what I gather you are the type of person that won't leave anyone behind. " Sabeam then drank some water from her small crockery cup letting the cool water clear her throat. Now, Baldemar, you just said you are not a bully, but what is a bully exactly? Someone who is constantly bothering someone because the bully is missing something about them self?" She asked while her tone was rather cool. "Maybe a particular someone thinks that you are a bully because they feel you are missing something and unknowing to you, you are lashing out with little pranks and little picks that you would deem 'not so bad' maybe others cannot handle your humor?"

Sabeam paused again while watching the reactions of Baldemar making sure that he was alright, "now, again, I know only a little about you or what you do...so take my words as much as you would take salt." The raven haired fletcher spoke while turning back to her food and started eating again.

_________________
You've tried so hard until now, you needn't blame yourself.
You've treasured your Rose Signet until now.
I shall give you a kiss as your reward.
This is your consolation.

Lydia nodded and smiled toward Junior after she was asked if the journal and hourglass was for him. She was hopeful that he would have liked the gifts she had bestowed upon him, and she felt rather relieved that he did. In fact he was exuberant about it. Lydia grinned as she watched the young boy place them down on the nearest table and then dived in to hug her; she was slightly taken aback by the overly enthusiastic hug. Lydia simply smiled and hugged him in return, “You are very welcome Junior.” Lydia shook her head and laughed a little at his words, “Oh, I know you will take very good care of them.”