RP:Fleeing Cenril and a Chance Encounter
Cenril - After Mage Gathering
After leaving the bakery and the other members of the Mage guild behind, Caltarok had meandered under the veil hiding him from detection generated by the sprites. He didn't really watch where he was going or worry about the undead finding him with their odd behavior from the light show that was occurring in the far west from the Xalious mountain range. His main focus was really understand the web of magic that Pyra and Slyphrena had wrought around him for protection. The two sprites have really pulled off a marvelous feat… Pyra was observing and dissipating all the heat from within Caltarok and regulate it to the natural temperature of his surroundings while the excess was pushed through to the ground under his feet.
Though Pyra's spell seem complicated, Caltarok began to understand the fundamentals of it after an hour of walking and observing the threads play out in front of his eyes. Turning from the fire sprite's spell, he was lost to the layers and webbing created by the wind sprite. Unsure where Slyph's spell began or ended; he gave up fairly quickly in trying to study it on his own. He knew he would have to sit and get Slyph to explain her spell to him in detail and work on each layer separately. Although he couldn't tell her stamina like he could the fire sprite as they were not bound to each other; he could only guess that she was at her limit and wouldn't be able to assist if he found himself in danger again like earlier that day with Gevurah and figure that had attacked.
Caltarok wandered aimlessly among the streets in Cenril. He would go down one street for a block to several blocks before cutting down an alley to double back the other way down another street. Knowing as a hunter, this assisted in general to confuse anyone that followed by normal means from determining where he was going (if he even had a direction). He believed at least for the time being that he lost his pursuer… or at least he had not been able to flush the being out between staggering, randomly pausing, or running at times. Presuming he was safe, he decided it was best to get out of Cenril and begin training in some magical defenses for the days ahead. His worse fear had already came to life… he was being hunted again… then the strange light from Xalious and Lionel's dire warning of dangerous days ahead.
Outskirts of Cenril / Kelay Forest
That Night
Caltarok at first headed towards the camp site he had established outside of Cenril only to pause halfway there. Already, he had been ambushed not by one passing traveler; but by two individuals that had threatened his life. He knew they weren't on the same side and he hadn't gotten the change to ask his teacher, Khitti; on how trustworthy the one was. But from what he knew, the drow would attack him just as quickly as she would consider him an ally. With great reluctance and lack of strength to maintain the spell, Caltarok had to release the transfiguration spell that was a constant drain on his mana.
In the matter of seconds, the human hunter found his bones elongating and the soft tan flesh hardening into a scaly hide. Wings sprouted out with a punctuated snapping before folding back against his body. Pain could be briefly seen as his body returned to normal at a pace to fast to manage properly causing him to pass out.
Slyphrena prodding Caltarok by varying means (not limited to large localized gust of winds to hit him with some logs from the nearby forest), "Cal? Cal? Come on Cal! Pull it together… we need to move. You told me how you didn't want folks to see you like this. You better be glad that amazing light show has everyone's gaze drawn to it rather then guarding the gates or the watching the road to see a dragon suddenly appear."
As a log hits him rather annoyingly across the head, opens an eye to stare at the sprite to see a mixture of pleasure at her handy work waking him and still have her arms crossed. He hisses at her in a way that almost seems like he is laughing about the bereavement given before shaking himself off and launching into the sky towards the Leafy Lodgings further in the forest figuring it was a place as good as any to rest and recover.
The next day
Caltarok awakens still worn from the hard press still worn but at least better for wear. He begins his spells again taking the form of a human hunter before setting out to the Kelay Tavern and a few drinks in Mesthank's tavern. He spends a few minutes to check out the board and finds a note seeking mages. A reply is left with Nancy the barmaid before he heads out to hunt and practice his magic with Slyphrena. His hope was to begin mastering the spell she used to hide him in Cenril.
A few hours later
Demeter stood against a tree, watching those that pass by. Noting what weapons, they carried, if any. What race they were if she could guess it. So many seemed too able to just blend in amongst humans in these parts, she was used to everyone Avian or those the trespassed. Learned about races from books until she entered the battlefield herself, been groomed since she was the age of three to wield a dagger. Only daughter to the Royal Militia, not only that only child. Her father wanted her to work as a battle mage, noting her pyromancy ability from a fairly young age. That was until the poison cursed her blood line, now she is the only of the Alabaster blood line. Demeter full height is that of 6 foot even, but with these heels she was a 6’3 and a quarter. Hip length braids cast down along her warrior frame, adorn in leather pants with many added pockets. Leather vest, sleeves with a normal neckline, keeping it modest. Her sword rest on her left hip, daggers hidden along her long tone legs. Grey eyes not faltering to take in anyone that moved around, even the ones in the shadows creeping. A vicious scar was across her face, a slight L shaped nose wrinkling up at those that looked upon her. Opening her flask, taking a short drink before securing it behind her on the belt.
Caltarok travels with his green/brown leathers and a long bow held lightly in his right hand with an arrow resting gently against the grip of his bow. His overall body posture relax as he emerges from the trees. Two sprites rest along his shoulders, one taking the form of a hawk made of flames while the other as a young lady sitting elegantly with her legs crossed and hands resting gently in her lap. Though there was no wind blowing through the trees, Caltarok's short messy hair and his cloak seem to be blowing in varying directions. Upon closer inspection, it can be seen that the young lady and Caltarok in discussion regarding the slight changes of the wind surrounding him. At one point the wind would blow carrying his words, "…like this?" Parts of Caltarok would seem to fade or blur as the magic Caltarok is trying to weave would change the air around him causing light to bend/reflect differently in a way; but it can be easily determined that he was definitely practicing the craft.
Demeter heard new footsteps to the area, turning her head she looked over. Seeing first, the hawk made of flames. When and where did those become a thing? Next, she noticed the short, very short woman sitting on his shoulder. Almost wanting to smirk at her thought of, ‘whole new meaning of angel and devil on the shoulder.’ The wind around him did not match for the one blowing, that alone caused her scar eyebrow to raise in question. Not only that he was seemingly zapping in and out, what the heck was up with him? He was by far the oddest she has spotted thus far. Speaking over the loud crowd from the nearby tavern, “Try looking at the leaves, it will help spot where to fake your own wind.”
Caltarok faltering at his magic as someone calls out to him about the fake wind. Slyphrena smiles at the avian lady before leaving backward to fall from Caltarok's shoulder before gliding up before him manipulating the air current in a complex way that only the wind sprite could, "See Cal! This is what I kept telling you… you are using too magic and not enough 'finesse'. Wind magic is about strength as much as subtlety. I just don't get it… how are you able to hunt as well as you do but cannot manage this?" The wind sprite then flows towards Demeter almost dancing on the wind, "Thank you for pointing out this oaf's problem… he didn't seem to get it from me." Giggling, Sylphrena moves along creating random wind currents to send the leaves dancing and causing other travelers a hard time. With a deep sigh, Caltarok shakes his head watching Slyphrena again wondering what is it that makes her so different from Pyra. Releasing his hold on the magical current within and around him, Caltarok turns to walk towards Demeter. With the releasing of his magic, the fire sprite also disperses into floating embers. Caltarok bows his head slightly, "Hello there miss."
Demeter was far from use to someone like – her – to speak to the Avian, watching her dance around then cause the disruption of wind. It did not bother Demeter, but made her charcoal feather move about on the large wings. Her nose cringed, shaking her head. Looking back to the others around her, then back to the male that is now walking towards her. Offering a high pitch whistle to call Stig to her, if he had tiny friends, they be hard to take down if they were to attack. Her owl could take them out for her while she worked over big boy there. Staring hard at the one that turned into ash, once a flaming bird. “Hi oaf.”
Caltarok sighs hearing himself called as an oaf before muttering under his breath, "Slyp… What did I do for this punishment?" Noticing the owl for the first time tilts his head in consideration before turning his focus back to the avian, "That's a wonderful bared owl there. Pet or just a friend?" He had yet to meet any Avians nor to know their relationships with birds. He was looking forward to this interaction and chance to truly learn about Avians. Unsure if it was polite or rude, he kept back a compliment regarding the lovely shade of her wings but it could be seen plainly his admiration as he gazed at the wings. Some part of him envied her if only because his transformation spell kept him land bound a freedom he sorely missed in her presence.
Demeter hand lifted to rub along Stig’s beak before he flew up to a branch directly above Demeter’s braids of honey hue. “My only friend and only one I can trust.” Even with the distance he had between them, the dragon could catch his favorite scent coming from her. Her wrist up to her neck adorn with tribal tattoos interweaving with the family crest. Looking from Stig back to the male near her, seeing where his eyes were looking. Such gaze caused her wings to move forward and back as she took a step back herself. Flames danced behind her grey orbs, giving a warning not to touch her charcoal wings. The tribal ink began to form crimson outline, starting to quickly pulse. “Those two, pets? Slaves? If slaves, where can I purchase one.”
Caltarok considers the words being asked in relation to the sprites, "Friends, I would guess in a sense. The one is spell bound to me after many nights practicing what an old mentor told me. The other… well as for sprites… I am not sure what she is. I have never met a sprite with so much life as her. She isn’t spell bounded, but she does love to follow me and help me practice using the air with my magic." Caltarok glances off to where Slyphrena had last gone to see she once again has fluttered off. He smile briefly, "Really, she is probably the closest I have to family these days." He had noticed Demeter backing away from him and the ready to strike posture she held since he had walked over. Hoping to disarm her and put her at ease, "But forgive my manners. Alas, I do not know the customs of your people. I am Caltarok. A hunter and cartographer by trade. May I ask to whom I have pleasure of speaking with?" After introducing himself, he realizes the he still held his bow and the arrow in his hands, he quickly places the arrow back into quiver on his back and shoulders his bow. He had actually forgotten they were in his hands having grown accustom to their feel from his length of hunting and remain ever vigilant since leaving Cenril the night before. Without them in hand, he flexes his arms and shakes his arms to relieve his own muscles as well as remove the jittery feeling he has from them suddenly being empty.
Demeter quickly reached for the flask she had on the back pouch above her round behind, opening it to take a long drink from. Instantly the crimson outline of the black ink stopped pulsing, placing it back where she got it from. “The one that called you oaf is like family to you? I would rid of it quickly, family will betray you or try to get you to do things for their own ego or even goals.” He gave his name, her brow arched high. “I am Demeter Viviane Alabaster, the Lamashtian. Pyromancer warrior.” Caltarok disarmed, the flames in her eyes began to fade. Placing her left hand to rest upon her sword, not trusting him. Everyone was a suspect to be a potential enemy. “Merry met, do you always try to talk to just anyone? How do you not know I am thinking of all the ways to slice you open?” she pushed off the true, standing her full height. The charcoal wings spreading straight behind her, when fully out they were longer than she was tall.
Caltarok smiles watching the Avian knowing for most beings he was well outside the simple striking range. He had no disillusion that she wasn't nimble and probably fast enough to strike at him. But neither was he ever truly unarmed as some bandits had learned and even the assassin that hunted him had learned. Caltarok had a bit of a knack for escaping tight situations and though he couldn't fight as well as some humans; he knew in the time it took some to strike he could return to his natural form with all the possibilities it provided. However, her name struck a chord with him as he had just keep Mesthank's barmaid a note for a Ms Alabaster. Ignoring the questions brought up leaving it to the lady's imagination on whether he was a fool, arrogant, or had means to show the disinterest to the subtle undertone of a threat; he instead asks his own question, "Demeter Viviane Alabaster, you say? As in the Ms Alabaster seeking a mage per the board down the road in Mesthank's glorious tavern? If so, then maybe I can be of assistance… why do you seek a mage?"
Demeter would lie if she claimed she was not caught by surprise that he didn’t call on her threat and tried to test her skills. She was so use to the fellow militia that it would had busted out into a tiff. He ignored it even. Switching subjects at that, and what he spoke of caught her off guard which if he noticed reflected only in her eyes, her facial expression remaining stoic. “To simply put it, further train my abilities.” With that said she pulled out a smoke from behind her pointed ears, lifting her thumb as a tiny flame dances about lighting it. Drawing a long puff, exhaling the smoke up into the hair.
Caltarok chuckles catching the subtle shock if only briefly. He definitely had to give this avian respect… she definitely had seen much in the way of battles and carried the air of a long practiced solider. But as if expecting the answer she had given him for why she sought out the mages, he bowed is head in thought for a second. He himself was just an apprentice by luck and chance thanks to the warrior guild sending him to tutor under Khitti for warrior training. But he did feel the responsibility given by Ordh's words and the solemn ritual held in Cenril; that no chance was to be taken. As if deciding on the course of action, "I am an apprentice mage, myself. Currently out hunting and practicing on my own at the moment as you saw. But I can maybe help assist you in getting an introduction with the mage guild by discussing it with my master and asking her or another senior member to meet with you; if you'd like. But before I do so… I must ask something from you for my own curiosity." Expecting a favorable response, Caltarok roots in his pouch for a small stone branded with bands of white and blue to present to the avian warrior.
Demeter went back to glaring when he chuckled at her, taking another long draw and exhaling. “Master? You are a slave? That explains it, why you are so open to speaking to just anyone. Just a regular damsel in distress looking to befriend someone to free you. Sorry sweet cheeks, I am the one the returns slaves back to their masters for a reward. Or I’d buy you off of them to sharp my blades. None the less, yes, please get the right person to come my direction. Should I pay you for the information?” The woman gave a nod of her head to Caltarok, “You may.” When he went to dig through his pouch her hand gripped tightly over the sword, lifting it up slightly from the shealth to be ready. Pausing as she saw the small stone branded with bands of white and blue. “What’s this? Do you plan to try to capture me and put me inside of it? Maybe I been wrong and you just been sent by the High Avian courts to collect me.”
Caltarok shakes his head amusement still clearly on his face. "No my teacher just happens to be a skilled mage and warrior. So I am under her instruction in both swordship and magic. I am not a slave… I only use th… hmm… the word most readily available for translation from my native tongue. You can relax… I am just going to use a spell and this rock as the focal point for surety." As if to explain himself, Caltarok calls upon the wild magic that resides around them and in the soil underneath. Thankfully, this was a simple spell from his childhood that was always used during high meetings so he had been able to memorize it even before he could call upon any type of magic. The rock glows faintly and with the acknowledgement of Demeter a link is establish between her and Caltarok through the rock. The stone itself would assist in bringing clarity and detecting truth/lies to varying degrees by providing a feeling right or wrongness in the words spoken. Caltarok continues on speaking, "With this stone, we shall know if other speaks truths with clarity. I do this for selfish reasons all of my own. As for the High Avian court, I know not whom you speak nor care why they may seek after you. I only wish to know if all you seek is knowledge in the arcane arts, if you are seeking just to study or to become a member of the mages guild, and that you do not seek to harm any of her members whether they be humans, elves, or any other race that walks these lands." The stone would give the impression of truth for everything but the selfish reasons… there the magic would reveal a layer of falsehood with a layer of truth behind his words. To each being, he had understood that the feeling of clarity would be different based on their being.
Demeter did not release her sword, instead she gripped to it so tightly her knuckles went white. “I see, these lands are very odd indeed. I will maybe one day relax if I ever trust you. I didn’t even trust my own fam-“ she stopped speaking when he said what the rock would do catching up with her mind. As the rock began to glow her sword came up higher from its place of rest, she paused waiting to see what he would do next. The ink upon her body changed from black to navy as the curse reacted to what the magic he was producing. “I only harm those that seek to end my life or harm me. I will and always be relentless and viscious in order to protect myself. Next time, ask permission. I do not like this feeling flowing through my veins.” Ooc We can finish tomorrow. I am free from 8am to 2:30 pm central time
Caltarok smiled mischievously, "Ah but I did ask your permission. Just didn't ask about linking us spiritually through the stone or this earth-base spell. However, you are so guarded and hard to read that catching you off guard was simpler and to be honest, more fun. But you haven't precisely answered all my questions and you do not need to worry, I will not attack or harm you for any reason this day and if you feel the need to draw blood me as payment for the violation. I will let you… But I ask that you do not touch or drink my blood. It would be disastrous." Hardening a little, Caltarok presses his one question again, "Are you only seeking the knowledge or do you have hopes of joining? So I can relay the information accurately, please."
Demeter stared long and hard at him. “Exactly my point, you know nothing about me. How do you know when you can break the spiritual link? I am a Lamashtian, that means a cursed Avian. I have dark curse, a poison my blood line calls it running through my veins.” She looks at her tattoos, “Not only that my tattoos are swirling with the same blue magic of that stone now. What if you break the link and it makes me pass out or harms me?” Demeter was very frustrated; all she knew about this curse was how she had to drink certain liquids. “I am seeking them, seeking to join to further my knowledge and home my skills. So it is a yes to both. I want more knowledge, more understanding and only way to do that is to have the smallest bit of hope I can join if not I will seek others out to other loyalty and aid from.” Crossing her arms, finally releasing the hilt of the blade. “You’re not young enough for me to want your blood, nor elven or human.”
Caltarok releases the spell with as much gentleness as it would have came across. Though Demeter's words had startled and shaken him especially about him not being human or elven, Caltarok kept his smile on to prevent giving away. Although he began to worry what had given him away, he believed his transfiguration spell was nigh perfect due to having changed everything to even the smell he produced to confuse even those of lycan abilities in so many distract ways that even his ability to draw magic was hampered. Tilting his head in consideration of her words, "I may not be an expert mage or able to cast defensive or offensive magic very well, m'lady. But this spell should have no after effects part of the reason for the stone is to isolate the spell from working directly on the hosts being effected. Instead it is dealing with something more and something less than the physical and the qualities of the land actually punctuating and bringing to forth a deeper understanding. But in either case, please forgive me. As you said before about being too trusting, there are some major forces at work that would see all ravaged and any semblance of life removed from all planes of existence." Caltarok had to admit at least to himself it may have been rash and perhaps the nature of the spell itself is what gave him away… it was a rare spell that only a few races used and only dragons with any regularity. Could she have been that knowledgeable already or really had she only been guessing? He certainly hoped for the latter as any other possibility left deep concerns.
Demeter knew or had an inkling that the spell he used was ancient, she was trained to pay attention to every single detail. Unless he was human and was trusted with certain fae folk highly hidden magics, and somehow able to cast it. With that thought her nose wrinkled up, shaking her body as the tattoos went back to black but the crimson outer line was back. “Expert mage or not, I wonder how you know that spell. Or enchantment what ever you want to call it. You may have not been lucky if I hadn’t sated the curse, I don’t know what all could happen to any casting magic if it isn’t sated. Especially towards me.” Moving closer to him, circling him as she studies the details of his person. “You know my answer, now a question for a question. If you lie, the veins on your neck will pump harder. Signalling higher beats of that heart.” She pokes his chest as she rounds back in front of him. “What are you? You tell me, I will tell you. Deal?”
Caltarok shakes his head and calmly replies, "I refuse to give you a precise answer to your question. Suffice it to say, that you are correct that I am not human or elven in nature. Nor am I an avian in disguise." He watches as she circles like he has seen the humans do at times before judging to 'buy' another being. A silly notion in his opinion as there seemed to be no magic used to control the other beings or oaths provided. Continuing on undisturbed by the judgement, "Suffice it to say that as you fear your council trying to hunt and collect you… I hide whom and what I am so others have no preconceived notion before we interact and to avoid those that would rather just kill me outright." Although, Caltarok knew there was one already out there planning to do so by commands of Caluss. He only hoped yet that the assassin hadn't figured out that Caltarok skipped town rather than staying at a tavern as he told the other mages. A nervous twitch might been seen as his mind wondered about the assassin and worry seen on his face briefly as he continues speaking, "But given time perhaps I shall trust you enough to reveal my secret, m'lady of the skies."
Demeter nods, her circling him was only to size him up. “High courts don’t like to leave the nest so to say. They would hire those of lesser races to them, so if dies it dies. No loss to them.” She saw the nervous twitch and her eyes soften along her face. “Seems we both have those of the past the wish us harm, just a guess.” She offers her hand, “I will be furthermore honest with you. But first I think we need some drinks. I am not scared to hide who I am or what I am. I hope they find me so I can send gifts of the heads with those they send. Or maybe they think I am gone and will destroy myself, or best to toss this aside and worry about bickering with the other courts. Where I come from each elemental Avian is in its own court. I belonged to the fire realm.”
Caltarok nods slowly, "Perhaps we can meander down to Mesthank's to get that drink you mention and continue the discussion? I am quite intrigued if I may be so bold to say about the innerworkings that you hint at of the avian courts. I will gladly buy the drinks and food." Caltarok gestures down the road to the east in offering.
You said, "if accepted, I will run to cenril real quick to grab some gold real quick"
Demeter nods, “I shall meet you there, and reserve us a table. See you soon Caltarok.”
KELAY Tavern
Caltarok meanders into the tavern waving at Mesthanks and looking over for the table that Demeter would have reserved. Although he told the Avian that he was headed to Cenril to get the gold, he had actually doubled back into the forest to grab the pouch of gold he had hidden there. He knew he could travel the distance in under half a day if he desired to release the transfiguration spell, but he was doing his best to keep hidden from the assassin and not to reveal his true nature. Instead, he grabbed money he had hidden before coming to the tavern. Taking his seat across from Demeter, he couldn't help but look around wondering if Nikola was around or off traveling. No sooner than he had settled did Nancy call out in greetings and letting them know she be there soon to take orders before returning her attention to the table she was currently waiting on. Caltarok commented casually, "A little more busy than I last remember… must be from those fleeing or coming to Cenril's aid or from the bloody show of force last night from Xalious"
Demeter had sat at a table with her back to the wall, “That was quick, Caltarok. May I call you Cal?” If she had knew where Cenril was she would probably put the two together that he had some pretty fast legs, either way she didn’t. Figuring it wasn’t far from where they were know, grey eyes looked up when he spoke again, tearing away from Nancy. “What show of force in Cenril last night? You are the only third person I have met here, well since I have arrived to Kelay that is. I think that is what this place is called. Is it?” She leaned over the tables resting on her elbows, putting out her smoke. “So, what happened last night that I had missed? Also, what is the drink of choice?”
Caltarok nods, "You may indeed call me Cal, if you desire. I think I will be getting an ale with the vension here. I'm not sure what I saw fully myself… but someone or many individuals was wielding a large amount of magic. The magic was directed at Arh’Nuk, the blood moon or red moon… depending on how you call it. Not sure what was going on but the magic ca…" Nancy in her normal grace comes to their table. Having overhead the conversation, she interjects with some of the gossip from traveling merchants, "Are you talking about that searing light? Not sure what is happening but a few merchants traveling from Xalious stated that whatever it was has gotten the beasts riled up. Some said it look like it may have been the work of the mage's guild but no one was close enough yet to give a true sighting. But anyways, what can I get you all to drink or eat?" Nancy would provide Demeter the note that was left in response to her board request for any mages (if it hadn't already been collected). Caltarok shakes his head at Nancy's interruption before placing his order of ale and a medium rare venison along with thanks ahead to the cook and Mesthanks.
Demeter listened closely, not exactly desiring anything but knowledge and further training herself. When Nancy came to their table she straightened up, “Strongest liquor you got, and two shot glasses. He wants ale and venison, as he just said, so I will have some venison and some fruit.” Looking to Caltarok for verification making sure what she ordered was okay since he was paying. If she was going to tell her story, her past, there will be shots shared. Attention back to Nancy as she took the note, “Thanks.” She said with no emotion, “My venison cooked the same way with some rosemary.” Once Nancy moved away, she offered with a nod of her head for the male to move closer. “Mage guild, eh? They might be fun to join after all. What kind of beast would be getting riled up?”
Caltarok shrugs, "That's fine with me. Please be sure to keep the lady's mugs full for her, Nancy. I'll be paying this time for the both of us." As Nancy turns to leave with the order, Caltarok picks up where Nancy left off and trying to answer Demeter's question, "To be honest… that is the first I am hearing about this. I haven't seen any merchants… But my guess would be the wild dragons without a mind… Or it could be whatever creatures are found in those mines that the dwarves built in the Xallious mountain… or just the mountain cats becoming more aggressive." Caltarok leans forward and whispers. "All I know is there is something stirring in these lands. I couldn't follow the discussion but the mages I was with last night were extremely worried about this. If you do join us, there may be tough times and a need for your particular skillsets I'd imagine." Leaning back, he continues glancing around to make sure no one was paying any more attention than normal to the conversation, "Though a few months back there was a bulletin out about a party that left Cenril in shambles… people turning to something not quite alive… a disease or curse I know not. And whispers of a dark god being behind it all. Dark times, I daresay. Dark times."
Demeter :: “Wild dragons? What kind of dragons? I’ve always wanted to touch a dragon, develop trust with one enough for it to be my alley. Any of my foes would run at the sight of my fire and a dragon’s fire breath if they dared to come for me. Don’t worry that handsome face, I have no enemies here.” Mountain creatures? Mountain cats? The wild creatures of the area became ever more a focus to observe. “I do enjoy my skill sets being used, feels wonderful when my blades sing and my fire released. Almost like a high of sorts.” When he said dark times her eyes held the smile that would had been upon the pink lips. “Dark times means war, means battles. Above it all, a lot of training.
Caltarok makes note of her delight regarding the dragons. Perhaps in the future they can indeed be friends and allies. Though the thought of her shock of the revelation might be worth the enjoyment, but all good things in time. "For the wild dragons, there are ice, black, white, and silver ones that I have came across. But all of them are without minds or reason… I am not sure you can befriend any of them. Though merchants in the North have been selling the younglings as pets." He tried his best to disguise his disgust at the idea but knew whatever force had long ago robbed his kin of what made them true dragons made the selling of their young as pet miniscule in the grand scheme. For now, he wanted to get to know Demeter better and work towards that level of trust that is earned and shared between comrades in arms. "May I suggest then that if I get an audience between you and Khitti that perhaps you ask her about the joining the warriors guild too? You will probably find many chances with them to spar and dance with your blades. But yes, a lot of training and battles seem to be ahead."
Demeter :: When he brought up the ice dragons, her wings dropped. “I’d like to avoid the ice dragons, those buggers hurt and freeze wings too easily. Dragons are one of the most elegant creatures, driven only by survival anymore. The kingdom had skulls of dragons for thrones, or décor. I thought it was a bit wicked, not in the good way.” The thought of children ripped from the parents caused the grey eyes turn a burning crimson, anger showing visibly. With an exhale the grey returned, not letting her emotions control her actions. “Maybe I can find away to stop the merchant from selling their young, by selling their own children to show them how it feels. See how they like it.” She gave him a nod, “Yes, I didn’t know there was anything warrior related. Outsider and all.”
Caltarok nods, "Yes… outsider, of course… The avian cities are very secretive and don't tend to allow outsiders within their borders. I know that is even more so for dragons as many kill them on sight." Demeter's words had lightened his heart to hear another being talk about defending the younglings and returning retribution. He had a similar sentiment, but he was going to find out who was stealing the young or if they were abandoned due to lost of reasoning from the 'lost ones'. As Cal considered on how to ask Demeter how she managed to get away with the high council stopping her; Nancy approached them carrying the ale for Caltarok and Mesthank's strongest brew. As she sat the drinks down, she provided the normal rhetoric of naming the drinks while placing them and the mugs in front of Cal and Demeter. As soon as Nancy would finish delivering the drinks and saying how the food be out shortly, he just came forward and ask, "Why did you leave the fire tribe's city?"
Demeter leaned back in her chair, not crossing her legs like most ladies do. Then again, most ladies wore dressed and she did not like them. Feeling it labeling and sexist to do so. “Yes, especially the fire kingdom. We never liked any of the other avian. Constantly at war, or marrying children off for a short live truce.” She stopped speaking when Nancy arrived, pouring them both shots handing him one of the glasses. “Salute.” She knocks it back before pouring another one. “Let’s go with the long story, then you can ask questions.” Taking her next shot, inhaling deeply. “My father was the head general of the fire kingdom’s royal court, we call them Kar. I was his only child, my mother ran off with assumed the water heir. In order to keep peace, my father accepted the plea from the King to go out and slay the necromancers that been preying on the water kingdom. Somehow they got through their barriers.” Next shot was readied, “Thus, my father took the elites out. Found what they thought was the Provectus Malus, but it was just her husband. My fathering believing females are the weaker of magic folks, slain Larue’s husband. Not just stopped there, but he killed their children.” She took her third shot, pulling out rolling paper and dried leaves as she made herself a smoke. Lighting it to take a long drawn out hit, “He didn’t stop there, the elites finished killing everyone. Burning the bodies, and taking the ashes so they could not be reborn as the undead by any of the strays.” Another draw of the smoke, “He sent everyone ahead, thinking it was best. His ego always shining brighter than his intelligence. Larue had arrived with a small hunting party, they took my father down. Forced him to ingest a poison, also a liquidified curse one might call it. Causing any he married and any of his blood line to become a cursed avian. We were called the Lamashtians. If do not ingest youthful blood, as my father took from her and her blood line so she did too, we lose our wings. Become dangerously weak, a cold could kill us. We become no longer an avian but a human. My family would not embrace what we had to do, the fire king outcast us after so many years. I was an adult when he exiled us because of my family lying about what happened. I was being trained, and soon I bested my father because he was growing weak. The King wanted my head because it was against the avian rights and laws, he rather us die off. I poisoned the king into a deep sleep until I could far enough away to be safe. I traveled for years till here.”
Caltarok listened quietly nursing his own mug ale being careful not to drink to heavily that he lose grips on his normal spells. Shortly after Demeter finished explaining things, Nancy had brought the two venison dishes one with rosemary and the other without. She hurriedly moved along to cater to other guests. Unsure of how to really respond, he just nodded. "To be an outcast is definitely a hard road and your curse with a hefty cost. Though the politics seem rather hectic to say the least." Caltarok didn't want to focus on the lady's lost or to give any type of sympathy not because he was cold-hearted. But he seen enough warriors and many of them to strong offense to anything made them seem weak. He knew now more than anything Demeter was not a weak individual having endured all that.
Demeter shrugged, “What doesn’t kill me made me stronger, and the person I am today. No reason to dwell and live in the past. The past is behind us, and we are now our present. What we do with the present is our own story to write. I, for one chose to continue being a warrior and a mage. Grow in strength. Revenge against them? No, they aren’t worth my time. They can take their own wings and shove it where the sun doesn’t shine. Eventually, they will kill each other off. While, here I am enjoying a drink and continue my training. Living, while they will all be dead by each other’s own ego.” She picked up a fork and knife, cutting up her steak. “Plus, past is ones true enemy.”
Caltarok responds in light nature, "Aye. That is true. The past is one's truest enemy threatening to prevent them from growing or learning. But also it is good sometimes to look back to see what knowledge can be gleaned or mistakes avoided in the future." Caltarok admitted to himself at least that he definitely hoped she would join both guilds and when the missions required him to take a partner in arms that she be available. Her strict focus and pragmatic look on things would definitely be useful not to mention that at least that she didn't have the aversion to dragons like other avians. "I will do my best to get you an audience with someone from both the guilds, Demeter. And as time permits, perhaps we can spar? Unfortunately though, I am having to keep hidden as much as possible… I am hunted and ill-equipped to face whatever the being is." Working slowly on his meat, a part of his mind was wondering about Slyphrena and her strange absence… or lack of commotion. Although, he hadn't the magical prowess to spell bind her like he did with Pyra; he hadn't been without her for any length of time for several months so the absence was disturbing.
Deaglan enters carrying a horrific looking disembowled deer corpse with bits of a dead, rotting, infant child sewn onto it in terrible places while looking dissheveled, filthy, and murderous. That was the short of it. The long required a listing of grievances and a sizeable host of horrors. They trailed behind him on wet, rattling bones. The carcass was a fresh ruin. It streaked blood across the floor. A sodden, sorry gallon of it or more. The hide had been peeled back from muscle and bone and he hauled it like a make-shift tarp wrapping. Too small, unfortunately, for it to veil the nightmare it carried. This payload was delievered uncerimoniously with the opening of his gnarled hands. The rough, scarred fingers swollen from years of hard work. Or murder. Or the working of nightmares. All that was certain was the disboweled corpse left upon the tavern floor. Two lungs pulled through cracked ribs to drape along a flayed back. The legs of the doe broken at odd angles, trailing behind. Exposed bits of pale skeleton rattling together where the meat had been stripped off, one would hope, upon the journey here. Atop what should have been the creature's head was, crudely, sown a horrific crown. An infant humanoid's deformed skull, dirtied and caked in mud, with wide eyes gelatinous from rot. Within the hide
Demeter almost smiled, instead her eyes went soft showing she was not as ready to attack or be defensive as before. “Only thing I look back on is my training and lessons, not the people. They mean nothing. Only thing that matters is those the fight at your side, not behind your own back.” She finished her steaks quickly and drank the rest of the ale in the mug. “I- appreciate that.” Her words were almost forced, was not something she said often. “Yes, we can, shall we use magic or just blades? I don’t fight fair either way.” She poured them both another shot unless he hadn’t taken his yet. Raising the shot glass, “To spar partners, and may you prove worthy to be an alley at my side.”
Caltarok lifts his glass to hers, "Indeed… spar partners and hopeful alli…" He stops mid sentence to stare briefly at the strange elf and even stranger carcass being dragged behind. He now understood why Mesthanks pretty much kept straw on floor of the tavern. This whole time he had thought it was the rowdy drinkers that came and went in the tavern. Instead, it was of crazy elves that had strange fetishes and strange stuff they brought in like wild beasts bringing a fresh kill to the den. At least in the case of wild beasts, the spilled blood never lasted long unlike the places of humans, elves, and the like. Knocking back the drink in his hand, Caltarok finishes his own meal and returns his attention to Demeter, "I don't mind unfair fights…. Truth be told. No battle is ever fair. But you may have me over the sword and possibly magic at the moment. All I have really practiced with is my bow as hunting doesn't provide many opportunities to fight with a sword or in the same fashion as fighting an intelligible being.
Demeter took her shot, not paying mind to comment on the person that just entered. But to say she didn’t care to look would be false, she indeed did look. “Exactly no battle or war is won over being fair or not cutting corners to get to victory. Even been head butted by an orc. It is not fun. Some of the most fun and memorable fights are dirty done.” When he brought up a bow versus a sword, she did smirk, “Actually, I can teach you how a bow is just as deadly as a sword.” The grey eyes studied the corpse, noting the child parts attached to it. What the heck was this person trying to build? Or had he hunted it? Either way it smelt, and she did not need to think about the rot upon the carcass the smell gave it away. “You can strangle someone or cut the throat wide open just like a sword. Use it to trip those around with it.” Taking a long draw from her cigarette before releasing the scent that was anyone’s favorite to hide the smell, not wanting it to ruin the taste of the liquor.
Caltarok nods in agreement as he had thought about such techniques in the past, but having not a sparring person before to practice with really did limit him. All the jobs he had up to now had only placed him in combat with wildlife and nothing up close or personal. The closest thing to a bi-pedal creature may been the ice trolls in Frostmaw…. But he normally took then down without ever being caught or noticed. As such he had grown very accustom to stalking and moving quietly when he needed to when hunting or exploring to avoid detection. Thinking of the prospects of his own growth in weaponry; he was certainly excited and the joy could be seen clearly, "That sounds like a great idea. Maybe another time perhaps? For now though, I fear I must go in search of Syphrena and return to Khitti soon for my lessons."
Demeter nods, “Take care Cal, I stay around these parts. If need help, you know where to find me. Look forward to our own lessons.” With that she stood up to leave, as soon as she was outside she took off towards the clouds.