RP:Quest - Drake's Consumption

The Preparation Meeting

Rilla had more time on her hands than ever now that she wasn’t human and she was taking full advantage. Looking for distractions, she’d settled on this. A puzzle and a chance to break in the recruits that she planned to use for scouting. Although the invitation had been open, Rilla knew who she expected to see meeting her in the library. The young vampire had settled in hours before, stretching out a whole new set of maps across the table she’d sprawled out at. Not much of a leader, she was almost dishevelled with her head in a book and her jacket hanging from her shoulders. She cleared her throat, some sound from outside of the room catching her attention to raise crystalline eyes to the door. Her jaw clenched, silent as she awaited her companions - if they chose to come at least. Between the legs of her chair weaved a small, dark grey cat, still thin and lanky. Young, but not a kitten anymore as he bunted against untied black boots, let his tail curl around the calf of her leggings. Comfort over anything at times like this - plus, this was not a fashion show. Save it for GOWNZ, kids. “I’m in here.” She called out to the sound, clearing her throat as she stood, hands rested on either side of the closed book laid out on the table to greet them.

Caltarok having only returned from his latest escapade to Frostmaw (particularly the frozen lake) for some ice fishing and solace. He had spent the whole night fishing in non-conventual means of using the fishing pole. But actually by taking a long dip in the amazingly bitter cold waters as his true self, the few fishermen that had been camping by the lake had awoken to Cal's splashing and breaking through the foot of ice that had formed on the lake's surface. Fortunately they deemed it the better part of valor to remain in their tents and quiet versus fleeing or trying to get the guards from Frostmaw involved. As was his custom when arriving or leaving the fort in light of day, he landed some distance from the fort to avoid being seen by the patrols in his true form even if he had used well-crafted spells to keep from being seen. He walked towards the fort with his uniform of the guild marking him as one of its soldiers despite having next to him in a chilled pocket of air, floating nevertheless, 75 pounds of freshly caught fish originating from Frostmaw. He hastily delivered the catch to the kitchen asking the cooks to please prepare a meal and send it to the library. He told them to fix, however, much and save the rest as he didn't know who would be there but Cal was going to eat a proper meal during the meeting that Rilla had requested for the new soldiers in preparation for a mission. With the meal settled and a promise given by the staff, he hastily headed for the library in his human form. The bow and cloak that he normally carried was left in his room still and only the guild issued short sword rested in the wooden scabbard on his hip. Upon entering the library, he would nod to Rilla with a "Lieutenant Commander" giving a brief salute before sitting, "I hope you don't mind that I asked the kitchens to bring along some food later as well."

Beldur wouldn't say anything as he looked at the group. His blue eyes like ice, looked upon the group. Seeing how nervious Rilla was, he smirks. He would use his knuckle of his empty hand to tap on the upside down helm. Shela's head poking up from it as if she was just woken up. "Wake up, sleeping beauty. You know you need to pay attention as well." He would then pull out the poster that was on the board. Perhaps after the others had taken the tabs, he just took the entire page. Offering it to Rilla before finding a seat. "I hope you didn't mind that I took the page at the last minute, ma'am." His own armor would be the same mythril plate that he wore before the dress code. Perhaps refusing to wear the guilds new armor. Or, more likely, they didn't have it in his size. His own longsword would lazily rest at his hip. His hand lazily petting the drake hatchling as she looks at Cal. Tilting her head as if something didn't match in her mind.

Demeter left the tournament and came straight back here, not feeling like camping out in a tree. Was not always comfortable, not as much as a bed to stretch her wings evenly out in instead tucked up against her back tightly. Constantly waking up to see what was around and moving, this place started to feel like home. With a yawn, hearing motion outside. Demeter got up, grabbing her cloak and boots not bothering to put them on as she descended from the stairs. Rubbing the sleepiness off her long eye lashes, hair stuck in multiple braids so no need to feel like having to fix it back up. The large wings trailing on slightly behind her, the sun making her squint. Why so bright? Then remembering she finished quite a few bottles flying home, and then when in her room. Maybe drunk dancing with no one looking, except Stig. Who just went to sleep instead watching the horrible moves. Clicking she was to meet with Rilla, and whomever else was to join them, heading to the library after hearing Rilla yell she was in there. Giving a lazy nod to Caltarok, and Rilla. The avian moves to where they are, pinching the bridge of her nose. Dropping her head to see Beldur, then to Shela. Shela got a smile and a playful flutter of wings at.

Rilla ’s familiarity with the new guild members was lacking, but she nodded to each of them as they entered, a habit long forgotten from her days leading clans. It was a strange bunch, and she wasn’t much of a leader, but Rilla smiled and sat once the others had. She’d never been one for formality, her guild armour long forgotten in favour of her usual non-descript all black. Her nose wrinkled, looking at Cal suspiciously. “Why do you smell like raw fish?” She asked bluntly, apparently Little One noticed as well and he began to weave between the dragon’s legs coyly before jumping up beneath the table onto his lap with a light chirp. “He’s a flirt, but he’s friendly,” she assured, “and call me Rilla.” She winked at him, shoulders raised with tension as she tapped her fingers against the tabletop. “Both of you.” Crystalline gaze fixed on Beldur who she’d known the least, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her lips before Demeter made her grand entrance. “Welcome, princess, good to see you.” She teased, crossing her leg and taking the map presented to her by Beldur. “Not a problem, we’re going to be looking at it a lot tonight.” Silvery laughter shook her nerves, laying out the maps of the Venturil mountains. “They’re more than a little lacking in this regard. For some reason no one likes to map out veritable dungeons of broody Drakes.” She chuckled, shaking her head. “And we’re going to be looking for something just as dangerous soon. Welcome to Scouting 101.”

Caltarok chuckles as he pets the cat now in his lap, "I'm sorry… I just happened to overhear in the halls that the cupboards were lacking in fish. So I decided on a trip to a lake to replenish last night. Only just got back to be honest." However, the joy dissipates briefly from Cal seeing the young drake. He couldn't recall what the ancestors told him about the cousin of dragon kind… was it something about wizards of old experimenting on dragon eggs or some other horror used to scare the younglings into obedience. No matter… whatever the story was… pity and sympathy was briefly seen in his eyes before he snapped back to the discussion of maps. Once again excitement and curiosity couldn't be curbed as he burst out, "Maps, you say? I have some of Venturil and a few caves from my trips outside the fort. But I haven't come across any that seem to show signs of drakes." Caltarok briefly considers if he should get out any of his own maps as he stares at the one already sitting on the table. With some subtle magic, Cal bends the light for himself alone to get a closer look for himself reviewing all the markers and notations already present on this map. Beyond this subtle review of the map he decided he would wait on Rilla respecting the chain of command.

Beldur 's own familiarity with this new guild didn't seem to bother him. As a warrior first, he would nod at her explination. Seeing Demeter, however, Shela would chirp. Wiggling from her masters grip, she would leap down to 'attack' the feathers on the ground. Her claws padding at the feathers as he sighs. "Guess asking her to stay still during a lession is still too much to ask of her. Sorry if she becomes a distraction. She's still young." He wouldn't stop the hatchling, however. Perhaps knowing she'll come through when the time came. But for now, his focus returned to Rilla. "And you said 'drakes'? What business would we have with them? Other than Shela." At the mention of her name, the hatchling's head would perk up. Her mouth drooling at the mention of fish. If Demeter wasn't careful, Shela would pry drool onto her wings. "I usually travel through the mountians to Frostmaw. So I'm probably in the wrong range. So I'm curious as to what business we would have with drakes. If you don't mind me asking why we would need maps of a mountain range."

Demeter ’s gaze went from Shela to Rilla, “Thanks goddess.” Followed by a wink, chuckling deep in her chest rising. Smelling fish, she wanted to pinch her nose it was almost overpowering. Almost blaming Beldur for the smell, but the direction and the whom it came from got a raised brow. Placing her boots on once she sat, looking at the map. Back up when Cal explained why he smelled, shaking her head. “He isn’t sorry.” Lifting her wings up off the ground when she felt a feather get yanked off, looking to Shela tapping her lap if she wanted to join her. Attention back on Rilla and her map.

Rilla , as always, was not known for being horribly serious. A crooked smile lingered on her face and she shook her head at them. “No one needs to be sorry.” She corrected, far from stern as she shrugged at the trio. “I’m a terrible teacher, I just want to make sure no one gets us all killed later.” Waving one hand, she eyed each member one at a time before finally settling on Caltarok. “Are you a mapmaker then? Show me.” She requested with a tilt of her head, turning to Beldur to explain while he did. “There’s a woman called Elena who’s lost a couple - or six - sons to a treasure hunt.” She shrugged, face even as she watched his reaction. “We’re going to try and find him before the drakes tear him to pieces. The caves won’t be easy to navigate - no easier than the white on white on white of Frostmaw wilderness.” Her lips pursed, eyeing the dragon and avian in turn. “It’s not that I don’t trust you,” she said to Demeter, “I need to know that if we get caught, you’ll be able to think on your feet and get creative. We’ll be outnumbered if they catch us in Frostmaw. In the caves I can almost promise that once they’re dead, they’re dead.” Hunting for thralls was really messing with her mind. “Truthfully it’s been over a decade since I was in the caves out this way, so Cal if you’ve been inside please, take the lead.” She gestured to the dragon with a smile and a nod, sitting back in her chair.

Caltarok nodding would open his ever present satchel containing his scrolls of maps and two notebooks. One of which would be pulled out with several scrolls with varying markings in what seemed to be a violet hue. Glimpse of the other scrolls would show that they too had markings on the outside in different colors. Caltarok would begin spreading and layering the scrolls on top of each other. The one left on top would be an exact aerial map of Venturil and the nearby mountain range. However, Cal doesn't leave them on the table for long as he moves to a nearby wall with a small slit where a candle could be nested inside. Not using the candle though, Cal would begin working his magic to create a small dim ball of light inside the notch and cover it with the maps. It is then that Cal's skill really shows up. The overlay map now shows in finer details from the sheets underneath using different inks some of the cave entrances from Rilla's map with the actual paths of caverns that Cal had actually explored. "Yes, Rilla. I am a cartographer. The book I left on the table contains my notes and observations of terrain, wildlife, and plants not already noted on these particular maps. I have others, but these seem most pertinent for the mission." Returning to the table, Cal would begin another spell that would further enlarge the map hanging on the wall so that it would seem to be standing floor to ceiling in the library. Waving his hand towards the map, "As you can see these are the caves I found and have explored. And those…" smaller circles appear on the magic drawn map "are the caves at least marked on your map that I haven't been too or verified with my own eyes. That isn't to say there are not other caves. Different lighting can hide or reveal any cave as can proximity hide other entrances."

Beldur ::Shela would roll when the wing was pulled away. Drawing her out of the daze and promise of fish. Demeter's offer of a lap would be too enticing. With Beldur in his armor half the time, a soft lap over hard plate was a change of pace that she eagerly accepted. Her claws lightly kneading her before the hatchling settled. The cold scales would greet her hand if Demeter petted her. His attention however was on the mission that Rilla would be explaining. "Drakes are dangerous on the best of days. Doubly so for wild drakes. But at least the former is predictable in comparison. But you have to admit, seeing the mountains of Frostmaw glistening with snow is a pretty sight. But I digress. And it's good to have a map maker with us. Directions and I have a poor understanding." At the comment, Shela would roll her eyes. Huffing as if agreeing with the statement reluctantly. "If that's the case, then, it narrows down our search at least." He watches the spells as Cal explained. His chin resting on the armored fist. "But my question is where would we start?"

Demeter eyes studied Rilla, “No one will die, you have this, and I have faith in you. A woman who has lost sons, what are the ages? Any idea what they look like just incase we find the remains? Give her a piece of mind at least instead left wondering if they or any are alive? Knowing age, any details possible be helpful. Like say we find trails, what if we trail the wrong person in hopes?” As for quick on their feet she nods proudly, “I won’t let you or anyone of this team down, I vow it on my sword.” Caves, caves and get stuck in them with a pyromancer. “What kind of drakes we talking? I am assuming frost? If so, what are their weakness? How deep are the caves? If need, I will enter first and use fire magic to align walls in which direction we go to get back out safely if we need to run and regroup. I have been getting a better grip on flames when they are tiny. In other words, I can be the torch.” Demeter watched how Caltarok presented his maps, eyes narrowing trying to copy them to her memory just incase hoping not that the maps could get ruined. Demeter would slowly pet Shela, taking in everything the comrades said.

Rilla sat back and nodded, watching Cal as he showed off his craft. The cat hopped from his lap onto the table, tail up and flicking in the air as the smokey creature’s emerald gaze found the strange Drake. He chirped at it softly, fur along the length of his back standing up. Rilla ignored it entirely, Little One could fend for himself or he couldn’t. “This will be useful.” She muttered, head cocked as she studied his map. “From the rumors I’d heard they’re Fire drakes, but with my luck who knows.” She laughed to herself, normally she was surer on her own. “I’ve arranged for Elena to meet with us,” Rilla explained, turning to Demeter. “She’ll be able to tell us more about her sons, and supposably she has things she thinks ought to help. Not sure what it’ll do for us that it didn’t do for her kids, but …” she shrugged, leaning forward to rest her forearms on the edge of the table. “I can see in the dark.” Rilla acknowledged aloud for the first time. “And I want to try to get past the Drakes, avoid the fight as long as possible. Depending on what we find, we could use flames to blast our way out if we have to.” She mused, fingertips tapping along to Demeter’s breathing in a slow drum against the wood as she considered their options. Magic wasn’t usually a consideration for the rogue, her own skills laying more in her ability to disappear into shadows. “Beldur, how much do you know about Drakes? Are you our resident expert?”

Caltarok looked back at Rilla when she mentioned Elena possibly bringing things. He hadn't tried to do what he had for Lionel when they first met, but Caltarok wasn't sure if he could coax a spirit to search like he had with the earth spirit he bound into a rock to enable a message be delivered to Cal. However, he did speak up as another idea came to mind, "I may have another trick in my repertoire that I could use to find the boy. But it is a bit of a long shot and would require me a day to perform, if there is any luck. Yet… ummm… Elena, I think you said her name was. Would need to bring some personal effects of the boy and hopefully not too much time has passed." Cal wouldn't admit publicly the card he could play, but he did glance to Demeter and the young drake in her lap. He was really beginning to hope that the rumor told to him over a century ago was true regarding drakes and their inability to use magic. He adds softly though, "As for once we are in the cave, I can still generate a map much like this one once inside. It will be slightly harder to maintain as I won't have time to draw and have the base like I do for this parlor trick. But it is about the extent of my magic. I am decent with the bow thanks to Khitti's training and okay with my sword." He did take his seat though trying to rake his memory for anything that might be useful and ignoring the growing hunger pain as he was spending energy at a pretty rapid pace maintaining now his four different spells simultaneously.

Beldur would shake his head after Cal finished his testimony. "My expertise on drakes are limited to only Frost Drakes as I'm raising one. So one has to learn. But if your luck is bad and they are frost drakes, then we'll be able to have my knowledge. However, it would be wise to assume they're smart. Raising Shela, she's definitely smart. Although she can be highly territorial. So I doubt the other races of drakes would be much different on the territorial aspect." As if almost on cue, Shela would spread her wings. Trying to make her size bigger as Little One got closer. Hissing softly as if not wanting to share the soft lap. Beldur would move a hand to hold her maw closed. Feeling the familiar sting of the breath weapon that he shielded the cat from. When the attack ended, he would pull his hand away. Shaking his armored hand free of the needles of ice as he sighs. "Personally, I hope it is Frost Drakes. If they're fire, I don't know much about their hunting patterns. Frost Drakes still need unfrozen meat, however. So they tend to use it to defend what they deem as their territory." Motions to Shela as if the drake proved his point. "Not for hunting. That's claws and flight. I would assume the same can't be said for Fire Drakes." His hand lifts his sword and rests it on the table. The scabbard housing the blade was dyed blue and white to help hide it in the snow. "As for combat, I think it's safe that I be up front. I'm more of a defender and have experience in that field anyways. I'm sure Lionel will be eager to exaggerate my time with him, but he knows first hand my tactics."

Demeter :: Fire drakes, great. Maybe if they are lucky, she could bend the fire to move around them, or use her own to re-direct the drake’s flames from the group. Either way, the frustration of finding out they were not frost but fire drake appeared upon her face. Frost drakes would most likely be harmed from fire, fire drakes not so much. “Maybe her boys just didn’t use the items properly? If she hands us a pitchfork, I cannot promise to call it a match. I am glad you can see in the dark, that makes us be a bit more incognito.” If Frost drakes had ice breath, and these were fire drakes..Her eyes searched Caltarok, silently making sure he was okay. How would he handle it if they had to slay one? How would the little drake in her lap handle it? Moving her hand to rub knuckles along Shela’s throat. “Where are we meeting the grieving woman? If these boys went into a cave full of them, I hope she is not expecting anyone to found dead without luck. If even barely alive. I have heard drake’s make nest and plays bodies around the eggs for when they hatch. What are the orders on handling the drakes?” Listening to Beldur’s set of skills. “I’m offensive, blades in hand. If these are fire, I will say this. If you see flames starting to dance along my body, and they are coming after us leave. I will try to distract them.”

Rilla was probably never going to understand the ways people used their magic. The whole affair was foreign and interesting, the tactician (as out of practice as she was) was literally on the edge of her seat. “Fill me in, Cal. I’ll get you your personal effects if you tell me what you’re planning to try.” She said matter-of-factly, opening up a notebook and briefly scribbling down the idea in light ink. “In a cave I imagine your sword’s the best bet. But forgive my ignorance, can’t you -” she gestured into the air around him with one hand and a confused expression - “transform or something?” Laughing at herself, it was likely that this was somehow offensive and she shot him an apologetic glance. “I’ve no doubt that all of you have things you’re capable of that I’ll never be.” She looked each of them over, shoulders stiff though her face remained hopeful and soft. In the meanwhile, Little One puffed up further, his back arching as Shela reacted to him. The lanky cat scrambled off the table and into the shelves behind them, likely grooming himself and reassuring himself that he could have taken her. Rilla just laughed to herself about the whole thing, shaking her head as her bright blue gaze followed the animal in it’s rapid retreat. “She wins this round.” Rilla remarked, “it sounds like they’re brutal creatures from everything I’ve heard.” Chewing the inside of her cheek, she watched the animal in Demeter’s lap. “I’m hoping not to have to kill them.” She said softly, looking between the four of them - Shela included - “I’m hoping to get in and out with the kid without them ever knowing we’re there. I mean, look,” she glanced down at herself, easily the smallest person at the table by a wide margin. Between her size and relatively non-threatening features, Rilla was well aware that she wasn’t going to intimidate anyone, nevermind wild Drakes. “When we’re searching outside of Frostmaw I don’t want anyone to know we’re nearby. I was on foot alone because I didn’t want to risk someone getting nabbed. This should be nothing for four of us as long as we can keep it quiet when we do have to defend ourselves or the kid. When we’re in Frostmaw if we’re caught we lose the element of surprise entirely, and it’s likely that no one will be able to find us. Consider this like a test run in …” she paused, raising her eyebrows, “totally different circumstances, but it counts.”

Caltarok showed no sign of distress over the idea of need be harming of the drakes. Yet, inwardly despite any bravado he did feel a slight pang of guilt at the idea. Yes, they were not true dragons like himself and would be much below the radar. Nor was he as sure as Beldur that they held the same level of intelligence as a true dragon. But hearing no mention of magic from Beldur, he decided a small risk might be worth some good knowledge. He would close his eyes listening to the others, but his mind would reach out towards Shela's mind. Gently pressing on it, he would try to feel for her reaction before speaking mind-to-mind as only true dragons could, ~Little one… can you speak?~ However, his concentration is broken from the little one at Rilla's question. Without thinking, he answers aloud and directly into the mind of anyone whose mind would be unguarded, "What?!" With a cough and quick tap on his chest, he quickly recovers himself closing his mind tightly before any further stray thoughts occur. Again those tuned to such abilities may pick up the momentary fear before he sealed his mind. "I fear the only transformation spells I know are mere illusions. But they should assist in your thought of stealth." As if to demonstrate and lead people away from what they may have felt, he stood casting another spell that slowly made Caltarok look fuzzy and hazy almost as if everyone was drunk before settling over him fully. He would then move around the table with the sounds of his breathing and foot fall completely muffled by the layering in the spell that not only bent light around him but using wind dispersed scent and sound completely. Only those that could sense heat would be able to detect him as he didn’t have enough strength to add the next layer onto the already complex spell. As if to help prove the functionality, he would circle the table completely once before bumping into both Rilla's and Beldur's seat before returning to his own releasing the spell. His breathing labored from exerting so much with all the spells. Thankfully, it is at this time that the kitchen staff begin arriving with trays of food for the group and some raw fish for Shela and the Little One.

Beldur nods as he moves his hand from the sword to his drake. Petting her as he sighs softly. Shela would shoot her head straight up at the intrusive voice. Though there was no reply, she would clearly have heard something by the way she was looking around. Beldur's own mind was more disciplined but was still caught unguarded when he heard that "what" in his head. His hand moving from Shela to the hilt of his sword. His mind quickly closed off as his icy blue eyes scanned the room till he felt his chair get bumped. Not even noticing Cal's illusion till he finally reviled himself in his own chair. He seems to start to ask something, but decided against it as the fish was brought in. Turning his attention to another topic. Though his hand never strayed far from the hilt of his sword. Shela on the other hand would dive at the raw fish that was left for her. Leaving the comfort of Demeter's lap for the meal. Causing Beldur to shake his head at how greedy the drake was. "If your feline doesn't hurry, Shela will take his fish. Drake can be greedy. Doubly so if they like it." He would then pull his drake back slightly. Her claws hugging the fish as if to ensure no one was going to get it from her. And indirectly proving his point. "That said, Drakes are not heavy eaters. From what I've observed with Shela. This fish will be enough to keep her satisfied till dinner, for example."

Demeter watches everyone, listening. Having nothing to say at the moment. Other then staring at Cal picking up on the heat signature, once food arrives she grabs light meals.

Rilla nodded her understanding at Caltrok’s words, chewing the inside of her cheek as she watched the man disappear into nothing. She jumped as he bumped her chair, stiffening as her hands closed into fists on the table. A slow breath is drawn and released and she rolled her shoulders back. “Magic is wild.” She mumbled under her breath, looking down at her hands as she unravelled pale fingers. The addition of more people didn’t exactly help her case, cautious gaze watching each of them as they entered and left from where she sat. “And what do Drakes like?” She questioned once they were gone, clicking her tongue to the cat who chirped back, head popping out from atop a bookshelf, whiskers twitching to catch the scent. “I try to let him fend for himself,” Rilla explained, “he adopted me, not the other way around. He knows what he wants.” She stood then, resting a hand on Demeter’s shoulder on the way past to let the cat hop down onto one thin shoulder and down to the ground. “Demeter, you’ll be our way over whatever’s in there. It sounds like it’s pretty dangerous, and I don’t know about these gentlemen, but I’m no rock climber.” She chuckled, watching them as they got their food. “Last thing we need to do is get the kid, but all get stuck down there.” She shook her head, taking her seat once more. “If we’re really lucky,” her eyebrows raised deviously, “we’ll go home with some treasure.”

Caltarok smiled self-contently to himself, "On a good day, I could extend the spell to cover all of us without hindering anyone from seeing where the others are. Just anything that enters into the spells' affect range will automatically be included. Assuming that, the map, and a good meal prior; I should be able to hold it steady for twelve hours. Should be more than enough time for us to get in and out. As for your earlier question…. Let's just say I have my methods without magic that could potentially track the child. But I would need to be alone to do it, I was a hunter before Lionel recruited me as I was asking to be tutored in the sword after all. I could possibly find the place and send word via one of the hawks in our aviary or using Pyra to find Demeter."

Beldur nods as he relaxes in his chair. Holding his drake as she eats her fish with abandon. "I lived in Frostmaw for most of my life. Climbing the ice is part of life there. As well as falling onto your rear in the streets due to ice." He shrugs his shoulders as he smiles. "No matter, I'll come prepared with rope for climbing. I might not have magic, but my armor and shield is thick and Frostmaw is home. Even if I am a hedge knight." He would pet his drake as if to ensure she didn't see the other raw fish immediately. Trying to buy Little One as much time as possible before she finished. Her belly round with the mean and eyeing at the cooked fish and the raw one if the cat didn't get it. "Seriously, you greedy drake." He chuckles as he shakes his head. "But if there's nothing else, our mission sounds fairly straight forwards. Get a description of the boys from the mother. Look for the cave they're in. Retrieve them or what's left. And return. If we're lucky, we will be able to get them and our weight in treasure before the drakes know we were there. But the boys seem to be priority. Right?"

Demeter nods, "I will do what ever is needed for us, use me as distraction if need. Help fly out what ver is needed from me." Looking to Cal, "He knows how to find me, but the quest is more important. Comes to get the child or children out first and to safety do it. Not second guessing I mean it." Her gaze was hard on Cal,

Rilla had never put effort into magic, it was not her forte although recently she’d become more and more a part of the shadows than ever before. She watched, listening silently as her cat hopped down from her shoulders, cautiously approaching the plate, low to the table with eyes turned black with fear. With a front paw he pulled a fish closer and as quickly as he did the last time, Little One had the fish in his mouth and was running out the door of the library. Rilla almost stood to follow, but there was only a little more business to conduct before she could chase the cat anyway. “Do what you have to do, the whole magic business is not for me.” She waved a hand. “Just tell me what I need to know about it so that I don’t wreck the whole thing.” She stood, not even bothering to clean up. Rilla knew full well the next person to use this room would be her. And if it wasn’t well, so be it. “The boys are the main priority, everything else comes second. Just like that boy.” Pointing out the door with one finger to where Little One had disappeared to. “Who is probably going to leave half that fish somewhere annoying. I’ll send word when we’re meeting next. Thanks for coming.” With that, Rilla skirted around the table, leaving the door open as she went off in search of the cat who blended in altogether too well with the inner workings of a fortress.

Caltarok moves to stand. "I just need something of the boys that still holds his scent and a knowledge of how long ago he disappeared. Till then, I will train and study some." He decides to head back to his room after first collecting the plates of the dishes ate and dropping them off at the kitchen. He didn't look at Dem for fear that she realized what he was thinking of doing with the articles to help their search.

Beldur nods as he stands. Shela trying to snag one of the cooked fish as he heads towards the door. "Till we meet again. I'm going to train. But no matter how simple the mission is, we should treat it as if our lives are on the line." After a few moments, the sounds of training could be heard from the training hall. Shela on the other hand, came back. Proving her master right about drakes greed and taking as many fish as she could carry with her out of the room. No doubt annoying her adopted parent when she returned to him.

Meeting with and scarring the client

Caltarok having received word that Elena was arriving at the headquarters earlier in the day had taken upon himself with the assistance of the staff to prepare the great hall for her arrival. He had the staff prepare dishes to help her relax from her long journey and for the questions that would possibly overwhelm her… he figured. He really didn't know what to expect from the woman as it had been pondered if she was more distress about losing the change of her boys bringing back riches over losing them altogether. He really didn't get these humans way of thinking. But water, teas, and small trays of light food would be set out for snacking. He even accounted for Shela to help ensure that the sight of the frost drake wouldn't cause undue panic for the woman. Caltarok himself set at one end of the tables covered hidden partially in the shadow with a warm pot of caf in front of him.

Rilla probably should have shown Elena to Semper herself for all the worrying she did over it now. It had been a long time since she’d allowed her marks to come to her, and to do so set her pacing through the halls of Semper. The meeting time nearly came and went while she walked the halls silently. It was only at the last possible minute that she wandered into their meeting place. She surveyed the room for a moment before picking a chair, turning it around and sitting backwards on it with her forearms rested on the back of the chair. “Huh,” her head tilted to one side, looking over the spread he had gotten ready, “thank you for remembering all the humans.” She said, looking to Caltarok in the shadows with a sheepish smile. “I’m notorious for forgetting at this point, never assume a meeting with me will have snacks.”

Beldur would have gathered as many maps as he could of the Frostmaw countryside. Having visited his homeland during the time apart. Shela would be perched on his head. Her claws carefully covering an eye as she hissed at women of the guild that got too close. She grew noticeably. But far from being what was considered a teen in the Drakes term. But she was easily long enough to reach from his head to his belt from her perch. Seeing the familiar faces from last time, she chirped and relaxed on his shoulder. If drakes could purr, she would definitely be doing so against his jaw. He would lift a hand to pet the drake when he laid the maps on the table to prepare. Knowing that they would need help and to have it to compare to Cal's maps. Taking a seat near the end, he would try to ensure Shela was in the shadow. Thankful of the thick wolf fur topping on his scale and cloak that she partly hid in. Letting her sleep, hopefully while they spoke with Elena. His head dips to Cal and Rilla. Seeing them first. "Think these maps will help with your own. I noticed yours didn't have labels, just notes on what was there."

Demeter flew over as quick as she could from where she was before, flying up as high as she could from above the clouds. Doing such calmed her helped sate the fires desire to break free from within. Landing distance away to wrap her wings in her cloak. An outsider was in her home, the place she has felt like was home at least. Moving through the halls and doorways until she had arrived in her normal leather attire adorn with blue accent this time. Nodding to any of those around when looked about. Giving a nod to each, moving over to sit down beside Cal. Moving her hand over to pat his shoulder in a Greetings to her sky brother.

Lionel || Elena had quite the adventure on her way to Vigilanti Semper. The southern stretches of Venturil's vast primeval forest were home to flesh-eating birds of considerable might. Shortly beyond the forest's clearing, a swamp was home to all manner of vile beasts the color of slime with great branching tentacles in every direction. To be sure, there were giant turtles as docile as a duckling, too. But it was hard to concentrate on that when imminent death was down below. Above the swamp, you see, was a lengthy boardwalk constructed by Venturilite authorities to allow for -- relatively -- safe passage. Elena had recently been informed that part of the boardwalk came crashing down due to poor maintenance, not two moons past. The tentacle beasts dined well that evening. Even after crossing the boardwalk, it was a return to the whereabouts of those self-same flesh-eating birds; some simply preferred it on the other side of the swamp, after all. A dusty road followed, with ever-bigger birds with prolonged beaks and feathers of many shades. If the previous birds were dangerous, these oversized turkeys were downright dangerous. At least the little lamb-like animals further down the trail seemed harmless; that is, until Elena tripped over one and a small herd raced to break her body apart limb by limb. Elena would have been dead a dozen times over before reaching Vigilanti Semper, were it not for the courage of a good paladin-in-training named Rorin Garecht. With swift swordplay, he lured every foe into his range. With pure vigor, he slew every threat to his client's safety. Rorin's escort duties evidently only extended to Semper's gates. Just as quickly as he'd come before Elena, he was gone. Stomping, exhausted, across the courtyard, the mother of many sons found the command wing easily enough, bolting in and glancing at the assembled lads and lasses who awaited her arrival. "I'm so hungry, I could eat an octorok," the woman complained. Food and beverage was soon within her.

Caltarok nodded to Rilla, Beldur, and Demeter as each in turn entered the hall. He wasn't much for words this day. His mind partially fried from all the extra hours he had been putting into training with archery, the sword, and his magic. He hadn't yet learned how to master any new elements as he would have under the old tutelage, but he was getting more efficient with what he did have at least. But his thoughts turned quickly back to what was on hand as the woman, disheveled as she was came into the hall. He had little doubt that she was the client… Elma? El? Elina? Well whatever her name… this was the mother of the boys they had heard about. Indiscreetly, Caltarok used his magic to parse and collect the air around her. As quickly and smoothly as this occurred, the trapped air pocket would be moved and closed into a bottle much like one might with certain kinds of smells or perfumes. Later, he thought, perhaps he might be able to use the air… it be extremely difficult… but maybe he could use it in his natural form to hunt the ridges for a familial scent if there was nothing better. A long shot, but worth the risk. A glance would be shot at his sky sister partially for her approval for this train of thought.

Rilla looked up at Elena as she entered, crystalline gaze fixed onto the weary woman before giving a slight nod. “Elena, it’s good to see you again.” She offered a smile and shuffled her chair forwards, closer to the table as she looked each of them over in turn. “Let’s stick to the food that Caltarok had put together for us.” Rilla winked at the woman but her jaw clenched and she reached out, tapping her hands on the tabletop softly in time with one of their heartbeats. “Elena, this is Caltarok, Demeter, and Beldur.” Rilla said, gesturing to each of them as she said their names although the woman was already busy eating. Who was she to stop her? “We’re going to find your son.” The tapping stopped and she pushed back auburn curls with one hand. “Or do our best at the very least.” Slender shoulders shrugged, nearly hidden in her oversized jacket - it was back to Frostmaw after this.

Beldur would be looking over one of his maps. Shela would've perked her head at the new smell. The large man's hand moving to pet the drake out of habit. He wasn't about to stop the woman from eating either. But, they were tasked with a duty and he intended to see it through. "Ma'am, if you may, can you take a look at the maps? If you recognize any of the names you might've heard your son's mention, please tell us. It might help narrow down our search area." Hearing Shela chirp, he sighs as he tries to keep the drakeling from scaring the woman by glancing to Dem. Only the words "She stole your rations," were whispered. The Drakeling looking to Dem before starting her hunt for Dem's rations in revenge. Hopefully the drake would be unseen till after Elena left.

Demeter quirked a brow at what he was doing, feeling his magic flicker along her flesh like static when he cast it so close to her. Offering him a nod, agreeing with his train if thought and action to try to follow the scent in hopes saving the children. Demeter watched the woman that lost her sons closely, what kind of woman was she? Questions filled her mind if she was honest and wanting her sons home, or didn't care just putting on a show maybe wanting see if we would find a treasure and hand that over to her. Whole reasons her sons were gone possibly. Or honest. Hopefully honest or she will need to be held back for the words that would cut this woman like blades would come out between pale pink lips. "Aye, what she said. Do our best. What were the boys wearing?" A quick glance to Bel, narrowing her brows.

Lionel || Elena froze mid-bite. Everyone was staring expectantly. Worse yet, she hated shrimp. And this latest thing to enter the woman's mouth? Definitely shrimp. Swallowing shellfish and pride alike, the heartbroken mother cleared her throat and peered at the maps which Beldur had skillfully ushered her toward. "Caltarok, Demeter, and Beldur," she repeated the names when Rilla concluded introductions. "Beldur, Caltarok, Demeter. B, C, and D. And Elena makes E. One of my sons' names began with 'A.' But he's dead. We'll never have a perfect alphabetical chain." The peculiar lines were delivered with a viper's sorrow. She seethed. Seven sons, one and done. One remained, perhaps. Each had vowed to take care of her when she inevitably aged out of her own confidence. Each lusted after treasure more than their mother. Quite like their father, Jon Arryn, whose infamous tryst with a certain Venturilite harlot had resulted in suicide. Elena's life was marked by tragedy. Much of it was due to her own behavior -- her sons had sought riches in order to provide for her because she had beaten into them the belief that they must be successful for her sake, and her ex-husband's 'tryst' occurred long after she claimed she'd kill him if they stayed together -- but Elena herself would never consciously recognize her role in all this, let alone accept it. Like hell would she admit it aloud. "Dead, dead, dead. I live and they die. It's agony, you see." At last, she crouched over the table and gazed at the maps. Licking her finger to taste the last of a poignant cocktail sauce, she hummed and hawed until she found what she was looking for. Tapping a fairly uncharted portion of the cartography, she shook her head sourly and sighed. "Here. There's a cave here. That's where they went. Here," she repeated with a certain sadness. Eyeing, Shela, Elena grimaced and stood upright again, placing her hands on her hips. "She looks friendly enough, but if she's here to eat the last of the family line, I'll just as soon start running, lad."

Caltarok looks at the spot not shown on Beldur's maps that Elena pointed out nodding to himself. He knew the area fairly well though he didn't recall the cave, then again the caravan he was with at the time had avoided leaving the forest trail. Oh… well… he was going to get to explore it now! However, the woman's behavior… Caltarok really struggled to understand the lesser races. For someone supposedly grieving for their children… This struck him as odd. Anger… Tears… Anguish… These things he understood. But the joking about names… He couldn't resist himself. He reached out to her mind a gift of his kind shifting through her thoughts gently… carefully so as not to be noticed. Doubtful though that a simple farmer… troubled like this woman appeared to be… would have detected him unless he spoke mind-to-mind or used more forceful techniques. Retreating from the touch like it was acidic and jerking back in his chair, Caltarok felt dirty… vile… and that he downright was going to need several good washings to purge the filth of this woman's mind from him. Her comment about Shela thought caused a rile from him… perhaps due to already being on edged, but the sound of his sword being partially drawn could be heard as he spoke softly belying his true emotions, "Madame… You do not need to worry about Shela at all. She is one of us and no harm will come…." With unneeded force, Caltarok shoved his sword back into the scabbard with a loud click.

Rilla barely stifled her laughter at the whisper from Beldur to his hatchling, giving Demeter an upward nod as she spoke. “That’ll definitely help,” she cleared her throat, “I’m sure there will be others who didn’t make it out of the cave. No need to fuss over each of them.” Harsh as it was, it was probably better to be realistic. Or at least that was what Rilla had decided, her jaw clenched as she watched the others. Should she be leading them into this place? This was why Rilla had come to work alone, her gaze landing back on the weathered woman. “Did any of them survey the area before going in? Any idea if anyone has ever made it back out of the cave?” Her voice was pressed, not that anything would change what had to be done. “And the entrance to this cave, how will we know we’ve got the right … Drake infested cave?” She shrugged, back rounding as she leaned forward, resting her arms on the back of her chair. If it registered with her that there was something odd about this woman, Rilla didn’t let on. Instead, at the sound of Caltarok’s blade, her brows raised and nails dug into the base of her palm. “Let’s skip the measuring contest, yes?” Rilla said simply, her stare unwavering from the man. “Elena is here because she needs our help. Her sons are missing and likely dead at the hands of drakes. Let’s forgive the morbid humor and focus on saving the kid. I’m sure that Elena means nothing by it.” With that she looked back at the woman expectantly. “Right, Elena?”

Beldur sighs as his hopes were dashed. Though Shela wouldn't worry with the craven women. But she would hiss at her when she pointed out she was there. Trying to snatch whatever bag held Dem's rations before fleeing back to her master. Coiling around his shoulders as he looks to her. "Behave, you silly little thing." Looking back to Elena, his own eyes turned cold at her words and lack of motherly concern for her sons. He nods his head in thanks at Cal's words. His own thoughts were much more hostile at the comment of his drake. His own hand moving from his sword to focus at the task at hand instead. "In any case, why would your son's go to uncharted territory?" He would pass the map to Cal. Hoping to see if his clean maps had the area charted. "Please tell me you've been over the shrimp stain or seen this area at least?" Trying to keep himself distracted from her words while a hand lazily lifted to pet his drake, regardless on if she acquired her prize or is pouting at the failure of doing so.

Demeter looks to the woman’s eyes, no tears. Didn’t seem to have any trace or sighs of grieving. Then how her words sounded when talking about them being 'dead' no emotion. "Only agony because you sent them to their death, and they didn’t return home with the treasure, yes?" Sitting up straighter, looking to Shela. "She should and I would enjoy watching it. You have no emotion when speaking of them dead, no voice cracking no tears." The avian leaned over the table, flames sparking to life behind her pupils. "Why didn't you help those boys? For second time...what were those of your womb wearing when they left?" Demeter temper was rising, she spoke more about Shela then her sons. Feeling Caltarok’s emotions did not help the rage burning like a fresh cut, the crooked nose wrinkled up in disgust. Ears twitch at the sound of a sword being lifted slightly, “How about you tell us the truth before we risk our necks to save a boy that you should be out saving, if was just you and not a child needing saving. I would happily tell you to kiss my grits and move on.” Hearing Rilla’s words she sat back, arms crossed tightly. Plucking a cigarette from behind her ear, lighting it from a new trick she been working on. Pulling heat from the surrounding areas, with a circular wave of her hands a small thermal gust rushed along the paper to light up. Inhaling long and hard before she exhaled with hatred filling in her eyes. Only fading for a moment when she gave Rilla an apologetic nod, eyes showing such but Demeter could be harsh with her words and actions. This should had never been a mother rubbed her the wrong way in all the ways, itching to slam her face into the plate of shrimp.

Lionel || Elena hissed. "I don't remember," she snapped at Demeter. It would have been enough if the lamashtian had forgotten her question had gone unanswered. But she just had to push it, didn't she? "How am I expected to remember what each and every boy across my brood happened to be wearing the day he scampered off into the cave with the twin jade dragon statues out front? How was I to know they were walking into their doom when the man in the red robes told everyone in town about a place filled with treasure for the taking? Albert never rode a horse in his life. He let the horses dominate him instead. Useless git. Saxon was a field hand 'til the day he was caught stealing onions. Can you believe it? Onions? Bent Bradley's legs never worked to begin with, which meant he never worked to begin with, which meant when his brother Jean-Luc invented a wheelchair for Bent Bradley, I wished them both well. Off they went, never to be seen again, all dressed in browns and tans and oversized boots." Evidently, Elena divulged useful answers only when engaged in the fine art of fitful self-defense. "Peter the Great was hardly adequate, let alone great. He fell into a well one day and dragged the family yak down with him. He made it up, hence his so-called greatness, all on his own. The yak? No one ever bothers confirming the obvious. And what of Annabelle Lee, my third-youngest? He died at sea, they said, only for him to return and die in a gods-forsaken cave instead. Mordred was next, claiming he had spells and tomes and more at his disposal. He wore a sapphire-tinged shawl, that one, mad lad. Dead. My only remaining hope is with Henry. Farmer's overalls and the gaudiest fedora in all the realms. Probably dead." She spat on the floor and dropped a dozen-od potions, poultices, and a jingling sack of coins upon the table. "Shame on you. Shame on you all. For shame, making a poor woman remember foul things. For shame. But you've agreed to the contract. There's your down payment, straight out of my late husband's will. The poor man. It was suicide," she insisted, clearly leaving open the door here for murder instead. "The rest for the safe slaying of drakes. Fetch the treasure and all's the better. Find my son and you're miracle workers, but I've given up hope for Henry." With that, she marched out of the command wing, redder than red.

Caltarok listened as the woman spoke and though she may not be aware of it now. Later she might feel calmer as he tried to place seeds of hope in her mind. Though dragons had talent in mind-to-mind and sharing of senses (those with real talent); the celestial dragons had a way at least of seeding minds… mostly to calm or more oft' drive people away from places they shouldn't. But with a mind like what he saw with Elena… He seriously doubted any amount of seeding would help. Her mind was more brambles and thorns and a vast desert parched of anything sweet and calm. No matter… she gave answer to Demeter's questions and a very 'apt description to this cave. Quickly, he retrieved from his bags the required drawing noting the game trails and rugged terrain leading up to the cave. Some of the notes scribbled nearby marked the cave as dangerous. But not because of drakes… other spots on the map would denote where Caltarok had found drakes during other trips. No the note on the cave was marked more for the rumors Caltarok heard from the caravan drivers and their guards when he traveled from Frostmaw to Venturil previously before joining. He would fetch his notebook out containing the rumors setting it nearby for anyone to look over.

Rilla shook her head as Demeter spoke, her face even before she looked away. It was only moments later that Elena began, giving them the answers to the questions they had answers. The entire while Rilla’s face was even, her eyes never leaving Elena until she had gone off into the stone hallways where Rilla could follow the sound of her, angry and tired. She waited, quiet for a moment until there was a beat of calm and she turned in her seat to face the trio. Keeping her voice low, Rilla straightened. “You want that ordinary woman to run into a cave of monsters so that she dies too?” Rilla asked evenly, tonguing her cheek. “Not everybody is capable of what you are. Not everyone will always be as ‘good’ as you are.” Her nails dug into her palm as she looked between Dem and Cal. “If you think that Elena is suspect, you tell your inner circle. You will find out more if you can keep your disdain quiet. We brought Elena here for information and because she has things that she thinks will help us.” She stood, turning her chair around the right way as she crossed to the potions the woman had left behind. “We could have gotten that information and more from her if you could have kept your mouths shut.” She snapped, only to draw a breath and release some of the tension that crawled up her back. “You tipped your hand too early this time. A lesson for next time.” Rilla was hesitant to leave, but the sound of the woman was getting further and there was no way that Elena could make it back home alone. “Next time there might be more at stake. All of you get ready. We’re finding the kid because regardless of what you think of his mother, he doesn’t deserve to get ripped to pieces.” With that Rilla was off, following after Elena if only to ensure that she got home safely. She was no great Paladin, but she could keep her from dying on the trip back.

Beldur would be ignoring the woman at the moment. While his own code of honor stayed his blade, it couldn't stay his thoughts. Nor his disgust at the woman's lack of care and her abusive language towards her own offspring. The detailed descriptions helped, though the verbal abuse, he wondered if it was right to return the sons to her at all. Shaking head as the hand on Shela's head left. Trying his best to help Cal narrow the search based off of Elena's words and the place she pointed on his map. After a moment or two, he would sigh before looking to Rilla, knowing her to be the most realistic, and possibly the most level headed of the group at the moment. But he couldn't help but agree with Rilla. A sigh escaping his lips as he waited for her to leave. "Thankfully she can't read minds. Else she'd have included me on that list of keeping my thoughts to myself. For now, we have to tolerate her. . . Unfortunately." He shakes his head as he gathered his stuff. Looking to the pair before he left the room to join their leader. "In your experience and what I've said about Frost Drakes, what are your thoughts on the likely hood of them surviving?"

Demeter mumbled under her breath when the woman began to speak, so defensive. Defensive because of guilt, if they found the treasure Demeter would try to persuade her comrades to not give her all of it but maybe a nimble of it. She spoke like she wanted the boys to be dead, only caring about the treasure. Her husband, a suicide? Demeter highly doubted this, she had no remorse for anything. She didn’t need to say what she has done, Demeter could tell how her words fell upon ears. How her words were emotionless, she didn’t cry. Lifting a single brow as she began to explain her son’s, and their attire after stating she wouldn’t know. Finishing up her smoke as the nasty female left the room, “Hope you trip and fall in a scorpion pit.” She says barely above a whisper. The flames within the optics left, noting how red her face was, most likely with anger for being called out. Groaning, “Can we please save the boy and split the findings with him to let him get far away from her before he ends up in a grave too? Heartless wench, I don’t know how to use my heart and I am not even that cold!” Looking over to Caltarok, “What notes do you have for us?” Pulling a move, she saw, and bats her eyes trying to look innocent for what she had done. “Least we got answers.” She cringed as she looked upon Rilla, knowing she was most likely in trouble. Rilla’s words were right, but right now Demeter would allow that woman to enter the cave and die like from what Demeter thought sent innocence in to die for greed. “Understood.” Was all Demeter said, standing up to tighten her cloak. “My bag for travel is in my room.” She said to no one as an owl came within the room, holding the satchel in its claws. Once Demeter took the bag, Stig perched upon her shoulders. Looking between Beldur and Caltarok, “Something is not right, I think we are walking into a trap.”

Caltarok just sighs, "Best I can tell, there are rumors that a group of thieves used the cave as their hideout. Not sure about before, but supposedly an ancient civilization lost to time skilled with strange and forgotten magic. Beyond this, I don't know. I may try to go ahead and get a better idea of what is there…" Caltarok glances at Demeter, "…I won't dare enter till everyone arrives. But getting the lay of the land to make sure there are no dangers or traps leading into the cave. As the caravans never mentioned seeing/hearing of the drakes, there may be a second entrance. But this is just speculation on my part." Caltarok stands from the maps, "I need to go to my room, collect my gear, and rest. Beldur can you take the map with you and we agree to meet in this location? Tell Rilla for me? That tongue lashing was more than enough…" Caltarok would look at Demeter as he was not very happy with the talking down given to them by Rilla, but he didn't blame her for it. He seen some of the woman's memories and he was extremely confused by what he saw. He would need to meditate to differentiate the truth from what she told herself as truth, but he would never do so as he didn't want to understand the woman any further. Touching Demeter gently on the shoulder, Caltarok would depart heading towards his rooms. If the others noticed, there would be three moonstones resting on the table with gentle runes carved into them. If one would pick up the stone, they might find the note underneath that would state "crush the stone to release the spirit within to summon me, Caltarok."

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RP:Quest - Drake's Consumption

The Preparation Meeting

Meeting with and scarring the client