[Research] Warden Armour

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 453 TWC: 8999 Tags @blazeedge Rook Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

Once more the scribe Rook remained silent, scribbling in her notebook as she had been doing most of the time. Yet when she spoke she had very wise and intriguing questions, making Bailin glad he invited her over to document the process. On the other hand she had also been the one to focus most on the more edible and drinkable part of the experiment, something which Bailin could not blame her for. Klide on the other hand suggested that they took a break as to get something to eat as it would probably take him several hours still to fix the plating, adding a thorough description of his plan and aesthetics on knights and clean armour, followed by making a small joke before continuing. [break][break] His next step was to produce his sword and tell how it was alive. Normally it would have been a strange tale, made up by a raving madman, yet for some reason the warden was not surprised, not anymore anyway. In this world they were living in there were stranger things happening than a living sword. “I see, I fear I am not as surprised as one might usually have been, though I presume this would be the moment where we suggest you have taken the ‘becoming an extension arm’ citation a tad too far?” the warden spoke, grinning from ear to ear. “That is fine with me; I doubt the game mechanics would allow us to handle weapons from others outside of a shop, lest things become very, very chaotic. Anyway, once you are set we can head into town and grab some lunch. I think I know of a fitting place. It is a small tavern, usually rather quiet, with an easy going patron and polite and kind waiters. The food is very decent and the drinks good. I have spent quite some time there when I did not own my home and the patron always took good care of his guests. I wonder if they still keep that half broken and squeaking stool in the corner, as well as the empty table, with equally empty chairs located in a corner, where none are allowed to sit upon, a noble thought to those whom vanished, presumed dead but not a body to be found. I think it is a nice and honourable idea. I admit, with this world’s mechanics finding a corpse would be something relatively hard to accomplish as we all return to the dust we are made of. Anyway, we will talk more on it once we are seated at the place, are you both ready to head out?” asked the warden of his compatriots as he prepared himself for a trip into town. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Klide was still organizing a few more plates but over all he was just about finished. He placed on last plate on the work bench before him and then stepped out into the back yard to cool his skin. He walked over to the river and submerged his head and hands. He wiped his face and neck in the cool water and then stood. Shaking his head vigorously like a dog, the water flew from his skin and his shoulder-length hair swung around, slapping his face a little. He was far enough away that none of his companions, nor any of their possessions, got wet. he then shook his hands to dry them a bit and said "Let us be off." The collar of his shirt was wet from when he had stood, and the cloth stuck to his skin, but he did not mind, and it would dry by the time they entered town, for it was a warm day, and the sun was shining bright, with few clouds to obstruct its light. "Come my friends!" He shouted back to his companions as he began to make his way around the house and towards the dirt road he had used to reach Bailin's house before. "Let us be off to a hearty meal. I will not deny that I feel a hunger today I have not felt in a while." With that, Klide was off, whistling a little tune and he planted his hands in his pockets. He had not smiled excessively as he shouted to his companions, but the joy could be felt in his words, and he had made sure that his tone was not one that was commanding, but rather was inviting.

Word Count: 286
Total Word Count: 10625+286=10911
Tags: Bailin , Rook

[Rook]

Rook was busily shuffling papers when when she realized the hammering had stopped. Bailin speaking of food perked her interest again and she looked to find the forge unmanned and Klide already out the door.

“Oh, yes. Food in town? I could use more ink as well.” She stood, sealing her inkwell and setting the quill to dry. It wasn’t exactly true, she had plenty of ink if she chose to only use black.

She left her papers, but took her bag. She was out the door and into that bright sunshine with renewed vigor. The light was momentarily blinding and the fresh air blew through her like the north wind had been laced with peppermint. She felt like she might prefer the workshop on a day of biting cold, but that aside it wasn’t her cup of tea. The thought of peppermint tea spurred her to haste.

Klide seemed a ways ahead, she assumed Bailin wouldn’t be far behind once his house was closed and locked. There would have been a time, she thought when this would have been everybody hopping in a car… or perhaps even ordering in. For a moment she could almost feel it like a lucid dream, the vivid memory of food with colleagues on a stretch of overtime.

“An empty corner? That must be hard to maintain… adventurers love to sit in corners.” She said to herself. Wondering how it could be achieved rather than considering the morbid light it cast over their situation.

---

Word Count: 250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 312 TWC: 9311 Tags @blazeedge Rook Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

Selecting the ‘lock’- option for his house Bailin quickened his pace as to re-join his compatriots on their way into the town, after Klide had finished reorganising his things so he could continue when they would return. It would probably be a simple task, yet an important one just like the smaller, and larger, tasks they had done before. Now the trio was walking through small, muddy roads on their way to find the chef whom could still their hunger. [break][break] “Well, we could always spend the rest of the afternoon shopping, finishing up the last bits of the crafting in the evening.” Bailin responded to Rook’s remark on her lack of ink. “As for the empty corner, I think an adventurer started, asked for it or something and it stuck. And yes, as it is pretty hard to keep an empty corner the owner placed a large poster above it. If memory serves me correctly it goes along the lines of something like this: for those who have died, vanished, have given up or have been given up, we keep this corner empty as to remember them and make certain they always have a spot when they are found or returned to us. I think it is a noble, idyllic and somewhat romantic notion, but on the other hand as Landers and us don’t always get along, I think it’s a warning as well as a request to not do as we please but that we also have a certain degree of responsibilities in this world, especially us adventurers. It is a rather personal note and opinion though, but perhaps that might be the reason why I prefer to frequent that particular establishment so often. But I digress, what do you two plan on having for lunch?” the warden asked of his companions as they walked into the outskirts of the town. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Klide stood in front of the house, waiting for his companions on the dirt road. As they joined up with him, he heard all that Bailin had to say. "Hmmm, I am sorry to say that I am not certain shopping through the afternoon is the best idea. I mean not to ruin your fun, but as I had said earlier, I still have several hours of work left with the armor. I am fine with us going in to a few shops and buying what we need, perhaps a few groceries and the ink Rook needs, but I would rather not spend more than an hour in shops. That is, unless we want to spend another night with Bailin, and finish the work tomorrow morning. Aside from my work with the armor, Bailin still needs to weave the coils into the armor. But, I suppose we can just plan and talk as we walk right? The idea of the corner does sound rather noble and romantic, but I like your interpretation. We as adventurers carry a larger burden than the People of the Land. They  have more to fear, for they have but one life, but we hold that one life in our hands, and must respect and protect that." He paused before answering Bailin's question about what they would be having for lunch. The forestry around them was quite beautiful in the noon light. many of the leaves seemed to glow above their heads and the light made them seem to be translucent. Klide turned his head back to his companions. "I... I think I will be having a few Cornish pastries, Sausage rolls, and perhaps a sandwich. As for a drink, probably just a glass of water. I have nothing I need to buy when we enter town, but what do you two plan on buying?"

Word Count: 308
Total Word Count: 10911+308=11219
Tags: Bailin , Rook

Note : Bailin, I'm thinking we could get some stuff from the list when we get to town. I wouldn't mind spending the afternoon shopping for what we need if you don't. If we do this, I would ask that you let me spend the night with you once more so that the armor can be finished the following morning. IT may make more sense if you bring up the trip over lunch and we decide then. It's just a thought though XD. I know you said you aren't a fan of combining threads, but you also mentioned that we could discuss the trip over lunch, so I thought this may work to our advantage.

[Rook]

Rook had to walk a little faster to keep pace. She had no problem with that though, and the thought of cornish pasties spurred her on.

“The ink I want is quite common. I’m sure it won’t be difficult to find on the way back from the tavern.” She said making her priorities quite clear. “I wouldn’t mind a stew, or curry… or pie… or soup.” She had to stop there for a moment when speaking became difficult.

The treacherous muddy road brought her back from her half baked fantasies. Ah, the sounds and smells of london, her appetite waned.

“I don’t know about responsibility. I don’t know many adventurers who are doing more than keeping themselves afloat.” Her thoughts drifted back the slum area in the city. A sadness drifted across her features. “Ah, but I think I like your way better. If we choose to take up the responsibility of caring for each other then maybe things will get better?”

The outskirts gradually gave way to London proper. The dappled shade of tree gave out to the buildings and bustle. It wasn’t so unnatural as it would have been on earth, the sharp lines of the city were softened by a century or ten of decay.

The topic of life disheartened Rook. She chose to try and bring things back to something more immediate.
“How about you Bailin, what do you like to eat?” She asked to bring things back to food. “Going to over-indulge like unnamed people?”

---

Word Count: 250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 365 TWC: 9976 Tags Rook @blazeedge Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

“Thus we should be able to enjoy a good and long lunch, but not too long as to make it into the evening as the shops would probably be closed at that hour. A nice meat pie sounds good or perhaps a proper stew, as to answer your question, and no, I was not planning on over indulging…” the Warden grinned, “Are you suggesting I’m fat?” he replied jokingly, a grin running from ear to ear. “In regards for remaining afloat, yes, I regret to say there are those who are not managing or amounting to much when it comes to improving odds for others or managing to thrive themselves, personally, this is a life I had always dreamed of so I took it with both hands, the perks of a being a student with middleclass, government- employed parents is… well… rather daft and routine, a slur called daily life. This however is an adventure, something to thrive upon and help others as well. Maybe, just maybe, we could start those constructing that railroad between here and somewhere far away.” Suggested Bailin as they entered the tavern and Bailin picked an empty spot in the corner. It wasn’t too busy inside, probably because it was in the middle of the day and Landers and adventurers alike were out on either their jobs or some adventure. [break][break] “Well now, let me see, some sausages, pastries and a sandwich, a bowl of stew and what did you have in mind Rook?” Bailin recalled the lunch list as he gently sat down on one of the chairs of their table. “So after lunch we will head towards the store for some ink and then head back. I don’t mind if you two wish to remain another night at my place. Saskia is out hunting some scary thing I presume, maybe we could ask her for directions, maybe she is aware of another large town; that would be ideal for our… scheme and put things back on track.” Bailin said, jokingly. [break][break] “I suppose it would be time for us to order our meal and get back to business.” said the Warden as he waved over one of the serving staff. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Klide found himself in a small tavern. It appeared to be a slow point in the day for business. Adventurers and People of the Land were probably busy with work, quests, and personal lives. "Indeed Bailin, I think that that plan will be most efficient and time effective." Klide then chuckled to himself about Bailin's pun. "Though I have say Bailin, I doubt we have explored this world far enough from Londinium to warrant the funding and building of an entire train engine. Perhaps if we were to go on a long trek or adventure first the goal of mapping out the distant land and finding more distant places we want to connect. If we were to travel to, oh I don't know..." Klide paused to remember the lands surrounding England. "...Scotland. Yes, I think that one works, though I am no expert in geography. If we were to go on an adventure to Scotland then perhaps we could get funding for our train, and it might possibly even give people more motivation to help us build it. I am sure that if we went somewhere like Scotland, other people would want to as well, but they may be discouraged by the length of the journey, and a train is an easy solution, as well as being very efficient for large scale trade, as well as exportation and importation. The question now is what we would need for such a trip, and who would come along. It would be hard work, of that I am certain. Mobs twice or thrice as high a some of our levels. If we were to do something like this it would take a lot of preparation and gear, and we would need more than two people if we wanted to have any chance of surviving. I am curious to hear your thoughts on this. Also I hunger..." by that last sentence, Bailin had already waved over a member of the serving staff. "Yes, Hello. Could I please have some Cornish pastries, sausage rolls, and the most popular sandwich you have?" Klide handed his menu over to the man as he also asked for a glass of water for a drink. He then waited for his companions to put in their orders. "I have to say, I am a big fan of a world without large corporations, and without a government. If there is none, than it can not be corrupted." Klide leaned back in his chair and waited for his companions responses to the Scotland trip idea, and for them to order their food.

Word Count: 431
Total Word Count: 11219+431=11650
Tags: Bailin , Rook

[Rook]

“No no, some people are just blessed with incredible metabolisms. And immense eyes.” Rook wasn’t one to point out people’s weight. Certainly not when people were buying her a hot meal.

She approached the table with them, a dainty scribe, but as she sat she seemed to take a page from another book.

With the speed of an caffeinated mongoose, Rook had swept up a menu as soon as they sat at the table. Behind it she lurked, eyes like a stew-hunting hawk and teeth like an dentally aware alligator. The conversation flowed around her and she gave as much reaction to it as a stone may give the river. Given another couple of hundred years, such conversation may smooth off her rough edges.

It wasn’t until the serving staff emerged that she left that bastion of all that was wholesome, good and tasty.

“Yes, I’ll have the house stew, with a side of the fresh baked bread and butter. Also, a large cup of your milk tea.” She spoke to the waitress, and seemed almost reluctant to give up the menu when the said same staff retrieved it.

Now the waiting began, the endless torment between the origin of all hopes and the deliverance of actual bread. Far from a daily occurrence.

“Scotland? I’ve heard the locals are unique, no doubt the game dialed that up to eleven since the starter city was London.” She tried to segway her answer in. “Actually I wasn’t listening. What was the question?”

---

Word Count: 250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 375 TWC: 10351 Tags @blazeedge Rook Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

“I am merely jesting dear Rook.” Bailin grinned as the scribe responded as if she were defending her previous statement, “I agree, my, my, dear grandmother, what big eyes you have.” He continued, grinning, as the scribe sat down and Blitzkrieg’ed a menu. Klide was more conversational. [break][break] “But Klide, that is not really an issue, as a mechanic I should be able to create the engine, which would mean we only require both the tracks, wheels and something to place the engine upon. Though I admit, trekking through the vast, unknown wilderness sounds interesting, as if we were true adventurers and explorers on their way to Terra Incognita, if my latin is still as rusty as it used to be. Well, we’re in what’s supposed to be England and Scotland was located north of here so, theoretically speaking, if we head north we should find Scotland… Indeed, that might be a… wiser course. Discover first, build or connect later. I presume we will need a lot of food, weapons and clothing, a lot of people and perhaps some things to carry it all, though I suspect it would be wiser to discuss this with all participants, rather than thinking everything out. It would send the wrong kind of message, making people less involved.” Bailin responded to Klide as both Klide and Rook ordered their food. [break][break] “I’ll have some meat stew if you please.” Bailin told the waiting staff and he handed his menu over as well. “Well, I think I have to agree with you Rook, Scots as far as I know tend to be a bit… different from the British, so if they amplified that as you suggest, we’re in for a real treat.” Bailin grinned, “As for the question: would you be interested to join us and could you perhaps make like a poster of sorts so we could find some people whom might be interested in joining our little expedition to the north?” Bailin asked of Rook with a gentle smile. [break][break] It took a short while for the order to be served, though it was probably a lot sooner than what it used to be in the real world, as the waiting staff came with the bowls and cups of damping sustenance. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Bailin's thoughts were well received as Klide sat in silence and heard all the Warden had to say. HE then began his response. "Ah, but Bailin, I didn't simply mean the engine when I said "steam engine" I meant the steam locomotive in its entirety I apologize for the misunderstanding. I should have been more clear in my meaning. Aside from the engine, we would need not only tracks and wheels, but the entire engine compartment, tanks for the steam and water, pistons, a furnace for boiling the water, an area with access to the furnace doors: exempli gratia a chamber with the train operator, and lastly either a second cart, or an extended separate section on the engine cart; which would contain the coal used for the fire. As for the exploration, I agree that it may seem as simple as walking north, but I doubt it will be that easy, nor do I mean to imply that you think it will be easy. I think you know just as well as I that at a certain distance from Londinium, things can get rather... difficult. If we do make a trek such as this than I agree that we will need a plethora of food, tools and weapons, and clothing and armor. As well as something in which to carry all of it in, for which I would propose we use a large wagon of sorts. And as for other people, I think it is a grand idea to have several companions with us. In many ways it would be like a traditional party in an Role Playing Game, but it would also be like a traders caravan, and if we were to bring goods with which to trade with the Scots and other Persons of the Land we meet on out adventure then maybe we can even make monetary profit from such a quest. But I suppose you are correct. Getting supplies before finding others interested, and consulting with them about what to get, would be rather presumptuous and may bring offense to some who wish to be involved as well. If we end up leading an expedition into the north, I hope that we can quickly find a synergy with any companions we have. Synergy, trust, and unity in combat could mean the difference between life and death on such a adventure. Though I suppose our main goal with this is to have fun." Klide finished with these words, trying to lighten his own mood from all of the more serious stuff about danger and death. He smiled as he finished those words and then took a sip of his drink, which had just come as he finished his rant. "Ah yes, that hit the spot. I too would like to inquire about your plans of joining us Rook. Are you interested at all? I know nothing of your skill in combat, but I have already seen some of what you can do as a scribe, and having one along never hurts. It would also be nice to have a few companions we know, instead of just a bunch of strangers." And as he finished these words, Klide began to munch on his sausages, pastries, and sandwich.

Word Count: 540
Total Word Count: 11650+540=12190
Tags: Bailin , @rookalrdidge

[Rook]

Scotland, exploration and adventure awaited.

“I don’t think so.. Doing so would be both unwise and unkind. I don’t have many combat levels, it is especially taxing on the tank to keep lowbies alive in areas they aren't supposed to reach.” She said matter of factly. “Posters I can do, but there will be a material cost.”

No is sometimes difficult, for a moment her appetite waned with a kind of social guilt.
It didn’t help that the stew was a little too hot for her, she had to blow on each spoonful… ah, but the flavor turned things around.

The sauces, the meats and vegetables. On the buttery bread, the heat of the stew melted the butter and made the combined mouthful so satisfying, almost creamy. For a moment the joy of it overcame her, and she had to pause mid-mouthful. What had she been doing with her life until now.. why had she accepted the abject poverty of her circumstance and hoarded up her gold pieces until now.

“Mmmm.” She smiled in bliss and the her view of the world shrank to the size of a table. Taking small spoonfuls and chewing carefully, she regulated the stew to bread ratio so a piece of crust would be available at the end to clean the bowl.

“What’s the point of Scotland, anyway? More areas for high level players? We aren’t exactly cramped in the known world as it is.” She said between savoring bites, failing to read the mood.

---

Word Count: 250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 437 TWC: 10595 Tags Rook @blazeedge Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

Taking a bite from his stew the warden listened to both Klide and Rook voicing their views over their hearty lunch. Once they finished Bailin started to formulate a response that would include both of their responses. After a few bites the warden came up with something that would hopefully entice both of their answers. “So the locomotive itself, yes that might prove a tad more troublesome. Though I admit, what you describe is encompassed within the mechanic’s steam engine construct, bar the tracks, platform, and wheels. The pistons should probably be adjusted and some added as well, but those are details for later as we first would have to find some place that would be actually worthwhile of having a railroad connection. Which would be one of the reasons to go to Scotland, or at least try and find it?” the warden explained in response to both Klide and Rook. [break][break] “Indeed, though Rook has a point, it will probably be for the higher ups, though, what if the way home is in Scotland? I don’t feel a particular need to return home, yet I presume there are some whom might wish to return. I agree, we would need to gather quite a lot of supplies, including proper, functioning armour for wardens.” Bailin said with a wink and a grin. “I think it would be wiser to plan for the day when we go there, once, someday, perhaps. When that time comes, I think some posters would indeed be a welcome way of recruiting said party members; as such the investment would probably be well worth it. The choice in companions would indeed be a second thing we should remain aware of, if for example you two were to hate each other, that might lead to issues during the expedition. A rather dangerous thing whilst being in hostile territory.” [break][break] Taking another bite the warden searched back for things he might have missed that he deemed to be worth mentioning, but bar the lack of cramped space he came out blank, more or less. “I agree, we haven’t been cramped but think of it like this: at some point all will reach the higher levels and thus are stuck with things they already know, making life rather boring and repetitive, with no chances of growing or change. Those are also dangerous moments, and to add to it, it’s an adventure in itself, not because we are stuck, but because we just want to see what is around the next bend, corner, mountain and hill, and so on. We’re a curious race and we’re in a whole new world we’ve never set foot upon before.” Said Bailin, grinning like a fool as he took another bite, leaving is compatriots hanging a bit, leaving his response very, very open to interpretation and without a conclusive end. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Klide was nomming away at his food while he listened to his companions. He had finished most of the Cornish Pastries and Breakfast Sausage Rolls, and was about half way through his sandwich before he decided to respond to what had been said. He took a large sit of his water to moisten his lips and add some more fluidity to his voice, as well as to help wash down the food he had just devoured. "I suppose you are right with the entirety of the train being mostly a mechanics work Bailin, though I should hope that I can be of more help that simply making tracks. As for you Rook, well I suppose it is entirely up to you. If you do not want to do it then I will not push you to. You had every right to refuse, it was just a thought. However, I have to say I am quite surprised by that question. Why Scotland? Well as Bailin said, the spirit of adventure, the need to learn and discover and explore, the want to get out there and see something no one else has seen. I want to see if there are any other People of the Land up there. Do you not think that this is also a way to help all the People of the Land? Think about it, if we clear an area of mobs and add our train, than the People of the Land will be safer from wild dangers, and the merchants of this land, Person of the Land or Adventurer, will have about twice the consumers and producers to trade with. That alone would be a good enough reason to go on such a dangerous journey and work hard to build a train. But as I said, this is not even about the money. It will save lives. We spoke earlier of responsibility as the immortals of the land. We have that responsibility to help the people, and I intend to do everything in my power to help. No needless deaths because grandpa went to get some wood from the forest, or because little susie went out to play. I will be the silent guardian of these people, and I will stand in the shadows saving them when they need it. Once the project is done, and they do not lose their lives, and the lives of their loved ones, they will not thank me, or Bailin, or anyone else who worked on the rail way or on the initial journey to find the route to Scotland. People are like that. Until something bad happens, they tend to be rather oblivious to the good. Only those who have suffered will realize that the train is not only for the wealthy bigots who want a bit more coin by selling their goods to the Scots. Nor is it only for the High levels to train on the mobs that may or may not be there. In the end, all we can do is give both the discovery and building our best, and hope  that no one chooses to use then for doing wrongs to those weaker than them. But I suppose we should look a little less broadly at both topics." Klide took another sip of his water. He was a bit parched from the rant without stopping for a breath. "Bailin, I agree very much with that concern about companions not liking each other, or major disagreements in a course of action. I suppose the best solutions for that would be: Firstly, to meet with everyone together before we set out, so that we all get to know each other and understand our motivations, goals, and plans for the journey. Secondly, we should appoint a leader. I suggest that is be someone we can trust but also with a high enough level and enough combat experience that they could lead us practically and knowledgeably. I have heard tales of a dwarf who suplexed Stonehenge, so he has some form of experience and may be just the man... or rather dwarf for the job, but that is only just a passing thought. I can not simply decide a leader based off of rumor and a whim. Bailin also brings up a good point with how we will all eventually be higher level. People grow and come nearer to the max level everyday, and it is only a matter of time before we match the highest players in our levels. Then almost everyone will want to have something more challenging than a level 5 boar to fight with. I would rather solve a problem that is sure to happen, before it actually becomes a problem. We would not some of them to start playing god or taking inspiration for the tale 'The Most Dangerous Game' would we. People are odd creatures, and I am sure that there are some adventurers here who would even hunt the villagers for fun if they got too bored. Forgive me, these are not very bright thoughts are they... I apologize for speaking of darker things when we are simply trying to enjoy a meal, and have a little chat to organize our ambitions. He took a small bite of his sandwich. "I do hope we do not have to deal with the horrors of war in this land, though I get the feeling it will happen regardless of my feelings about it. Klide muttered to himself as he waited for a response to his peculiar rant.

Word Count: 922
Total Word Count: 12190+922=13112
Tags: Bailin , Rook

[Rook]

She couldn’t tell if she’d hit a sore spot, or had simply not noticed the conversation becoming passionate while her focus was limited.

Listening to them speak Rook became quite convinced that they all came from different worlds.

“Bailin, a way home may be in Scotland, it’s true. It may also be in the dungeons under London or through a fairy ring. …” Rook stopped herself, there was no need to trample his enthusiasm just because he’d dared to waive the scent of hope under her nose. “No, don’t worry about that. The expedition, are you certain it would be best achieved overland and not say, by boat?”

Klide was clearly a martian. He was talking about valor and protecting the innocent, it made her uncomfortable and it showed. She squirmed a little in her seat. How do you face somebody who, in the same situation chose a higher calling of service to others and self sacrifice.

Rook felt judged. She swallowed her first reaction. This bitterness was not going to improve her steadily cooling stew.
“While I believe that better transport for the lander will improve their lives a lot, I don’t think that increasing their wealth will do the same. Keep in mind that aside from events, monsters spawn in zones. And respawn endlessly. We cannot grow a farmer’s plot into a hostile zone and expect monsters to not invade it.” She paused for a moment. “And the presence of higher level adventurers attracts monsters in Elder Tale.”

---

Word Count: 250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 564 TWC: 11159 Tags @blazeedge Rook Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

Savouring the flavour of the stew Bailin thought of yet another witty and elaborate response to what his companions had said. Slowly, whilst shifting a piece of meat from one end of his plate to the other and back again, the warden slowly spoke, responding first to Rook for it was what she said that was freshest in his memory. “Aye, that indeed might be true, though there is but one way to find it out if the theory hold is to just go there and see. It could be I’m right and you’re wrong, could be you’re right and I’m wrong, we could both also be right as well as wrong. There are, in my opinion, several ways to find out if there is a way back and where that might be. Well, to be honest, I don’t, but presuming that the land holds more secrets and has not been plotted and mapped all that properly yet, I deem it wiser to go overland, what if we miss the essential fairygate by going over the sea? On the other hand, the same could be said for going overland. Like a friend of my father once told me: there is no good plan until you know the results. “ Bailin said with a grin, scooping up the piece of meat and eating it before speaking further. “And I think you probably will be able to assist with more than just the tracks, Klide” Bailin responded to the blacksmith. “ Klide, although I agree with the view, isn’t it a tad… comic-book like? The silent, unsung hero and the likes? I think it would be a lot wiser and more efficient to have Landers do their own protection. Not because we, as adventurers, shouldn’t but, what if we find a way home? That would leave the Landers as new born babes in a world of wolves, because we vanished and they relied too much upon us. We should perhaps train and teach them. To stand and hold their own even when we’re not around.” [break][break] He had noticed that Rook had reacted a little bit… uneasy when Klide was speaking, but it could also be that she really needed to use the bathroom but for some reason figured the two men at their table would be offended if she did. [break][break] “That dwarf seems like an interesting character, though I doubt I’d enjoy being suplexed, though perhaps we should meet or ask him first, what if he does not want the role? We should establish that first, then, if he agrees, set up some guidelines and lastly meet with the people who will join us.” Bailin responded to Klide, taking another bit of his stew before concluding that it could become a long, long lunch if he responded to Klide in more detail. The discussion was interesting but they were digressing more and more. Thus the warden decided to respond to Rook instead. [break][break] “Hmm, on that bit I would have to agree, though with higher wealth Landers could buy better equipment, reducing the need to expand. However that would indeed keep the monsters in play. Perhaps we could reach a balance between the expansion, increased wealth and to keep the monsters in check, regular patrols or a rapid response force, like the Royal Guards but, well, a tad slower.” The warden said, hypothetically in response to Rook’s valid points. [break][break]

[Deleted]

Klide listened to Rook and Bailin talk about the possibility of Fairy gates and munched on his food as he did so. Bailin turned to him and reassured him that there would likely be far mor than the tracks to do for the train. He then said that although he agreed with Klide's view, it seemed a bit comic like to him. "Well yes, I suppose. But is there anything wring with that. Maybe it is not so bad to like my like a bit like a comic book character. This is a world we could never have imagined back home. We have lands all around that have never been explored before, a feeling only people three or more centuries ago got to feel. We use blades in stead of guns, and  magic potions to heal our wounds. We are immortals, gods almost, and we live among the mortals of this land as equals. I guess wht I am trying to say is not that we should suddenly develope a god complex and want everyone to bow before us, but that if this world has so many possibilities, then I see no harm in living in the shadows. Being the "Silent, unsung hero." In a way, I think I have always liked the idea. I was always a bit shy on the other side, also always a bit far from any social life. I guess this might even serve as a tribute to that side of me. True it may be wiser to allow the People of the Land to protect themselves, but I will not stay my blade if I see one who needs help. I know that is not what you are saying, you mean that we should treat it like the old proverb "give a man a fish and he will eat for a day, teach a man to fish and he will eat for a life time." but is it really that bad to have someone in the shadows, in case something comes along that is truly dangerous to the lives of those who have only one? And if we find a way home? So what? That gives us an option to leave, it does not force us to. i agree that we should train them nd make sure they are ready for a time when we may not be here, but as long as I can, I plan on staying here along side them, leaving my shallow footprints and giving to them small things they may never notive or appreciate. I am sorry if this sounds silly and "comic book like" but I guess that is just how I am wired" Klide finished as he took a little bite of the last of his sausage rolls. "Pardon me for changing the topic so abruptly, but I think we should perhaps plan on leaving this breakfast soon. We have stayed here for quite a while already, and we are getting far deeper into topics than we have time for if I may say so."

Word Count: 508
Total Word Count: 13112+508=13620
Tags: Bailin , Rook

[Rook]

Rook had plenty of time to eat her stew as Klide spoke. She had always preferred to at a table with company and mild conversation… she could hardly call this mild though. Still, there wasn’t anything for it but to enjoy the stew and the company.

“Klide, I don’t think there is anything wrong with your style of doing things. I think it’s a noble aspiration. Very direct and forthright. I’m sure Bailin agrees, even if he feels it may not be the most realistic approach to problem solving.” She gave Bailin a look that spoke volumes about expectation while saying nothing at all. Rook wasn’t the best at giving looks.

“Simply living in this word has changed us all. Of that I’m sure. Some of us have flowered, others withered.” She didn’t fit either category.

“Bailin, it doesn’t matter which of us is right or wrong about the way home. Using that as a carrot is cruel and unusual in itself. It’s salt on an open wound, the hope itself is painful.” She was going to say more, but couldn’t find a way to do so politely. Instead she finished the stew, popping the last of the crusty bread into her mouth and soaked it with a sip of tea.

She chewed and wondered why butter was so salty.

The mug warmed her hands, she found it enjoyable to clasp it and hold it near her mouth taking a small sip whenever she had the impulse to speak again.

---

Word Count:250
Tagged: Bailin @blazeedge

[Bailin]

[nospaces]

HP: 100% MP: 100% RH: Saurum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) LH: Sarum Progressive Riffle (lvl 20) QS: Golden Hilt (lvl 21) AR: Flak Jacket (lvl 21)

WC: 320 TWC:  11479 Tags @blazeedge Rook Theme Song TS Credits Cortana

“Hmm, I hadn’t looked at it that way, it is true that I have risen, flowered as you have said and there are some who indeed have withered, though I never thought of the general idea of getting home at all would be painful, but that might have something to do with my life being generally boring, whilst here, it is as one grand adventure the moment I step out of bed. I am sorry if I caused you harm or insulted you with my, well, blatant ignorance. “the warden spoke, rather shocked at his own incompetence to take heed and into account the emotions of others. Silently he took another bite, his plate now nearly empty, subtly biting his lip as if he was angry with someone, or something, in this case himself. [break][break] Taking a deep breath Bailin looked up again and slowly spoke, a small tremor being audible in his voice: “Perhaps we should indeed make good friends with the Landers, ask them if they happen to know anything about grand, magical things or tales of ancient times, as a way to look for the means to get those who wish to go home to actually be able to go home. For that purpose we should indeed help the Landers, though personally I don’t think we should make them too dependent upon us. In simpler words: we are in their world and we know near nothing about anything, thus if we get friendly with the locals, the Landers, we should be able to find out more information. If for example the Fairy Gates were working before we arrived, there is a large chance our arrival and the Gates malfunctioning are connected, however we need information for that. And yes Klide, I agree, we should head back and finish up. It would appear our breakfast has increased our workload quite a bit.” The warden spoke with a sour grin. [break][break] OC note: I am still sickly, but I didn't want to stall you two any further because of me ;)

[Deleted]

Klide had shared his thoughts and very quickly, he had gotten a reply. Rook expressed he feelings, and Klide liked that she called it "...a noble aspiration. Very direct and forthright." It was a description that he felt was very kind, though possible too kind for such a simple idea. “I agree. Living in this word has very likely changed us all. But if we are talking in terms of flowers, then I think I am blossoming now." When Rook made her statement to Bailin, Klide decided to add his input. "I do not want to come off as rude, but I do not think I will help with any searches for a way out anytime soon. I hope I am not coming off as selfish, It is just not a priority for me." Bailin added his input and then mentioned getting closer to the People of the Land. "I agree Bailin,  but know that it was never my plan to make them be dependent on us. I want to help then so their lives are a little easier, not so they can not live without us. If they have it a little easier, and don't loose as many of their own, they cn perhaps make advances of their own and they can prosper. That is what I hope to achieve. And if they want to give information in return for my help, then I'll gladly accept it." With that, Klide decided it was high timme to leave breakfast. He knew that they were having a good conversation here, and it would be rude to cut it all off suddenly, but they really needed to get going as well. "Excuse me for a bit." Klide said as he stood and pushed his chair in. He walked up to the server who had come to their table and handed him a few coins with some extra coins as a tip. He walked back the the table, placing his palms atop it and saying "I think I'll wait outside, sorry for leaving you like this, but I think I need some fresh air. Just come join me when you are done eating and we can go shopping." Klide took his hands from the table and exited the building. A few meters from the door, he saw a bench and sat down in the mid day light.

Word Count: 394
Total Word Count: 13620+394=14014
Tags: Bailin , Rook