Resolution, Mishap, Adventure (Acacia, Ansley, request)

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The day of the abduction, a messenger was sent out to the Arch. Even horseback it would be a substantial time delay before the notice would make it to the great tree. A young page made his way to the height of the great tree where the Headmaster was, leaving a scroll with him immediately. He read it, getting an assessment of the situation and then closing his eyes with a sigh. It was known he was a powerful mage, and his assistance with rescuing two young noblewomen would be inevitable. All the objects in his office hovered as the messenger squealed and ran out of the office as the mage's anger rose.

"What a cowardly act..." Adrain states, quickly making his way to his personal quarters and putting on leather armor at the bottom closest to his body before putting his mage's robes and cloth back on. He then made a quick portal to the second district and manifested in a more off to the side area. As he quickly rushed to the nearest underground entrance, an arcane aura surrounded him as a spark would periodically fire off in the air around him. He walked past the guards, ignoring the initial calls to wait but seeing his magic and figuring out his status, they let him be. At the entrance of the underground, his eyes glew bright as he used his mind's eye and the Fruit to look past the material world and find the nest of the ratman.

Upon finding the location, he was quiet for a second, as he thought, then in a single moment he flashed through the tunnels, rapidly teleporting from point to point and bypassing the traps that were set, each magical trigger ignored. Upon approaching the lair of the ratman, he saw the disgusting piles of rags, bones, and assorted trinkets and treasures pilfered along with magical tomes, but more importantly the small glass jar the noblewomen were trapped in. As he stepped forward, he heard a shuffling behind him as he rapidly turned and fired a stream of fire down the tunnel, causing a high pitched squeal and a hideous visage of the ratman behind him engulfed in fire and squirming to try to put out the fire. He manifests another sphere of flame, but hearing the faint protests of the kidnappers, he opted to yield to the real objective and simply ignited the tunnel on fire briefly behind him as he went to pick up the jar. The spell to reverse would take time, and knowing the noblewomen they would less likely be keen on walking back through the sewers. He would take them up, reverse the spell, then come back to finish dealing with the ratman.

As he began to cast the portal, a howl was made as something leapt through the fire, the archmage startled, but moving to defend the prisoners by turning around, clenching the bottle against him as he felt a blade press into his right shoulder. A burning sensation filled him as he recognized it was some sort of magical poison. As a response, he emitted a shockwave of arcane power, blowing back the ratman before he could follow up the strike, and hastily finished the portal, leaping through it.

The poison however interfered with the magic, disrupting the mana as the portal's exit point ended up being at the Crystal Springs. Confused, but figuring out the situation after a few moments of thought, he staggered a bit, but remembering the real problem, he kneels down and unseals the top of the jar, laying it down on his side when the baronesses were aware of his intention and he stepped back.

He closes his eyes and being to cast a spell, weaving arcane energy in a number of glyphs as the miniaturization spell is gradually destroyed, the two women returning to their normal sizes after a few minutes. After a moment, he exhales, recognizes the state of dress the women were in, then turns away, facing away from the water and propping himself up next to a rock.

"...You're safe now." he says, having some hint of pain in his voice. "I fear the poison interfered with the exit portal and put us up here. It's not that long of a march back, I don't feel comfortable trying to portal again for a few very good reasons, mostly your safety." he says, exhaling deeply as he then begins taking his outer robe off, putting it to a side and starts to reach toward the area where he was wounded. He holds his hand up over it as best he can as he begins to channel another spell.

"...Take time to compose and clean yourselves as necessary, I need to tend to this prior to moving out." he says, then quiet as he begins trying to extract the poison with a water based spell.

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It seemed like it had been a really long time since the baronesses had been kidnapped and trapped in a bottle. Acacia lost track of the time, thought it had only been a day or two at most, she was sure. She alternated her time with talking to Ansley, pacing around the jar, and staring out into the sewer. It was dark and hard to see anything most of the time. Whenever the ratman did illuminate their surroundings, it wasn’t pleasant. There were bones scattered everywhere amongst old rags and piles of filth. The smell was the worst part, but even that faded in intensity after a time.

Acacia had almost given up hope of ever being rescued, and was actually trying to just be grateful that she was dying with her best friend, when a sudden commotion in the tunnels brought a new spark of life to her eyes. She both fearful and hopeful at once, afraid it was something worse but praying to the gods that it would save them. A bright fire erupted in the darkness, blinding in its intensity and her ears protested against the unearthly sound from the ratman, though it brought a smile to her face for the first time in a long time.

The tiny baroness watched anxiously through the glass as a figure came forward, holding off their kidnapper with more fire. “Ansley! Are you awake? Are you seeing this? I think we’re finally being rescued!!!” she said excitedly. She didn’t care that it was obviously a mage, not having the same severe dislike of magic as her friend. More than that, she was just immensely grateful and began sending hushed thanks to the gods.

Despite everything that had happened to this point, Acacia still squealed a little when the unknown figure picked up their jar. She quickly sat down and tried her best to keep herself from being thrown around in the glass. She couldn’t make out much after that but felt the tingle of magic in the air as the mage continued their defense and worked to open the portal for their rescue. A surge of alarm flowed through her as she heard the howling ratman and she quickly covered her face with her hands.

The sound of birds and running water reached her ears as Acacia took the first clean breath she’d had in a long time. A coughing fit ensued as she opened her eyes and looked outside the jar. They appeared to be in the middle of a forest by some hot springs. She wondered if it was the Crystal Springs but that thought didn’t last long as the jar moved. The mage was setting them down, carefully, placing the jar on its side. She shifted her weight, sliding on her butt as the jar tilted. Once flat, she stood, helping Ansley to her feet, and made her way out of the mouth of the jar.

The dirt was soft beneath her feet but Acacia didn’t have time to absorb that or her new freedom as the mage worked to reverse the spell. It took a few moments but then she felt a wave of magic envelope her, pulling and stretching her bones and muscles back to her original size, her organs ballooning and resettling into position. Altogether, it was a very disturbing process that left her aching all over. She pulled her robe together, a blush rising on her face but noticed that the handsome mage had politely turned away. She listened as he quietly explained the situation, looking around at the area as he did so, their predicament sinking in with a new realized horror and just nodding slowly to show she understood.

Acacia’s body was starting to shake with the force of all the emotions and she cleared her throat, trying for composure. “Thank you so very much, for risking your life to rescue us. I am Baroness Acacia Sutherland and this is my friend, Baroness Ansley Crawford,” she said, her voice catching slightly as she thanked him and gave the introductions. Such relief was evident in her voice, but it was tainted with the new fear of being out in the middle of the woods, largely unprotected.

“I don’t know how long we were down there but I’m sure by now some reward will have been put together. To whom do we owe our returned freedom?” She asked softly, watching as the mage tended to his wound.

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Ansley huddled with Acacia; conscious and watching with growing horror as the rat man took them into the bowels of the city. Even from inside the glass the fumes were nauseating. Her attention was soon caught by a blast and the excited whisperings of Acacia. Yes indeed it would seem they were being rescued…….by a mage! Oh how she hated magic. She braced herself against the wall of the jar as they were once again jostled and swung about. All she could do now was close her eyes tight and hope that soon this whole experience would be over. ”Please tell me when this is all over!” It would seem her dear friend Acacia; even after their whole experience did not share in Ansley’s aversion to magic. Really magic should be left to the gods and their children as it was in the ancient past. Magic was a burden on to them that should have never been given. To her it felt like a sin to use. She prayed to the ancient six as they were carted off and spun about. Silently promising if they lived through this she would pay proper tribute to every one of the gods.

Not long after this prayer a nauseating feeling washed over her as they were pulled from one spot in Nova to another a great distance away. Only a small relief was given as her nose took in fresh air instead of the putrid scent of the sewers. She dared to crack one emerald green eye open; the change of scenery had changed drastically. Slowly she blinked allowing her eyes to adjust to the brighter light of the outside world. Gathering their bearings quickly she deduced they were at the crystal springs; a notable spot frequented by the common folk. The springs were splendid enough however to attract even some of the more well-bred nobles out every now and again. Most typically during Ai’s cleansing after the blossom festivals each year.

She braced herself as the jar was opened and tipped; sliding on her bottom to the side of the glass. Acacia was quicker to her feet and offered a hand to which Ansley gratefully took. Her legs were weak from the experience. She fallowed Acacia out while adjusting her pink silk robe lined with fur at the hems. Gratefully she had thought to cover herself during the whole incident; never would she have thought she’d be stuck out in the open, so far from the castle dressed soo indecently. She barely had finished adjusting when another wave of magic washed over her; pulling her back to her original size. The experience left her leaping for the nearest bush as the contents of her mornings breakfast made a reappearance. When her stomach was done emptying itself she plucked a leaf from a nearby plant and wiped her mouth. Looking back when Acacia mentioned her name as she conducted the proper introductions. The fact her friend remembered her finer manners despite the strenuous circumstances made a twinge of pride spring up in Ansley’s heart. Acacia was demonstrating the very definition of being a noble; maintaining a cool head. Some city nobles looked down on the country bred; but none would be able to argue the girls outstanding strength of character.

Ansley walked back to her friend’s side; her head held high as though she hadn’t just been emptying the contents of her stomach. She took Acacias hand and patted it; now noticing the tremors that shook the girl. When the headmaster of the arch turned; for that’s whom she assumed he was. He certainly fit the description. She would dip into a small curtsy. Ansley distrusted mages as much as the magic they used, but her dislike would have to be put aside for good manners. The man did rescue them from a very unfavorable position…even if he did put them into another unfavorable one. Though it was an improvement. Even if he was a mage his intents were to bring them back to the castle and not sell them off like cattle. ”Indeed; my thanks are in order as well.” Ansley pulled a pink ribbon out of her pocket and began to braid her long brown hair; which had since dried in the time they had spent in the jar. She finished the braid and coiled it up into a bun which she tied off with the ribbon. Even if she wasn’t decently dressed she might as well not appear completely unkempt. She did however need to relieve her bowels desperately. She excused herself to go find a remote location to do said activity; all wall horrified that she would have to do such a thing out in the middle of the woods. It was so uncivilized. However her father who spent so much time as a solider traveling; had made sure Ansley was no stranger to the backwoods. If the situation called for it she could survive; unhappily of course but she was capable.

She returned feeling much relieved; ”If I recall you are the Headmaster of the Arch of Ages; thank you for your efforts and I apologize you were injured in the endeavor. As unfavorable as walking in our state of dress is; I’m quite done with magic today. So walking is quite the preferred method; I don’t think I could handle anymore magic today.”

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Adrain paid little heed when Ansley went off to relieve herself, momentarily occupied with his attempt of first aid to his shoulder, only looking at Acacia when she inquired as to who he was along with Ansley inputting that he was the Headmaster. He nodded, then looking at the two women, standing with his hand clenching the wound behind him and smiling to show strength, his eyes closed as he bowed.

"Yes, I am Duke Adrain Kaiaru, Headmaster of the Arch of Ages." he states, not normally flaunting his nobility title, but it seemed relevant to bring it up now for the two Baronesses. "I didn't do this for a reward Acacia, only to correct a wrong by somebody who used magic for the wrong purposes. It was my intention to deliver you two to the castle and return to capture that thing to face justice but things happen." he says with a slight sigh. He looks at Ansley, seeing that she had some sort of contempt for magic in her words. It was unfortunate, but people were entitled to their beliefs.

"There may be some more magic used before this adventure is done, but for now I'll refrain unless it is needed." he states, then returning to his seated position and leaning against the wrong, exhaling with some pain as he uses his good arm to reach into a pouch, pulling out an inscribed crystal. He holds it near his mouth, channeling mana through it as he spoke.

"Iris, are you reading? Remember you have to say Valferis in order to reply since you don't use magic to reply. I got myself into a bit of a situation...I'll tell you the full story later, but the short version is this: I rescued two kidnapped baronesses from a dangerous situation but I took a knife wound to my shoulder in the process of escape which disrupted my portal. I am under a poison of some sort interfering with my magic, lower magic should be fine but I wouldn't want to try a portal. We are at the Crystal Springs, about half a day's trek back to the castle. It wouldn't be too bad, but I need you to bring me some things. Two horses, two sets of women's clothing as high a quality you can make at short notice and insulated...body type petite woman with normal curve sizes I guess, a full day's worth of rations for four people, oh and I suppose some bandages and a potent antidote for magic interfering poison...if you are at the Arch you should be able to get it from the Alchemy, if you are in the city. go to the second district and find a clinic owned by Tresor de Lys, it should be fairly easy and tell her Adrain got poisoned, she should take it seriously enough to provide a potent formula...thank you for this Iris, I'm sure you'll scold me later for rushing off without you on this but there was a lot of flash teleportation involved and time I felt was of the essence. If you have to buy things, show them my insignia and to credit it to me and I will cover the expenses." he says, then powering down the spell once the conversation with Iris would finish, then looking at the Baronesses.

"My guard will bring us supplies, but it will take some time. You two should probably try to relax as best you can and rest for the trip back, at least you are at a springs such to allow for bathing to clean off the sewer smell." he states, then looking to where a ring of stones was from a previous campfire and raises his hand, a fire manifesting in the center for warmth as he then exhales once more.

"You will be back in the castle soon, you are safe, I promise." he states.

@irismaedeha

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Acacia watched as Ansley adjusted to their situation. She knew her friend didn’t like magic and could see that the prospect of having to depend on this mage was making her unhappy. As Ansley went off to do her business, Acacia distracted herself with sneaking glances at her rescuer when she thought he wasn’t looking. He was very handsome, though it was impossible to guess his age what with his silver hair but toned body.



Her observations were interrupted by Ansley’s return and greeting, the added part about her dislike for magic bringing a small smile to Acacia’s lips, which she hid gracefully behind a sleeve. The suggestion that this might be the Headmaster of the Arch of Ages had Acacia running her eyes over him yet again, this time with scrutiny and disbelief. Of course, she had heard of him but had never met him personally nor had she exactly asked around for a description.



Adrain didn’t keep her waiting either as he soon introduced himself and explained his intentions. The young baroness hid her surprise well when he mentioned he was a duke. She hadn’t known he was part of the court. She was impressed he wasn’t interested in the reward though. That spoke volumes about his character. “Either way, we are very grateful, Headmaster. I don’t mind having to walk back. There’s no need to do anything that would make your condition worse, after all,” she added, smiling warmly at the archmage. Already she seemed to have calmed down quite a bit, the distraction of conversation worked wonders.



Acacia watched him curiously when he pulled out the crystal and listened as he began speaking to it. It seemed that the Headmaster was quite resourceful as well and she breathed a sigh of relief as she listened to him instruct someone to bring them supplies. She could hear that their journey would take a few days, which she didn’t mind, but at least he was being considerate with asking for the clothes and food. She was finding better qualities by the minute.



The young baroness nodded in understanding as Adrain explained that he had been speaking with his guard. That made sense for a noble though she was surprised that he had left without the guard in the first place. Though hadn’t he mentioned something about time being important? That was a pretty good reason.



Acacia shook her head to clear her thought as Adrain reminded them that they were at a hot springs and they could bath to clean off the sewer smell. Her face broke into a large, excited grin for a moment before she looked down and realized she was still in her lavender robe. She had nothing on underneath it in which to bath. A light blush rose on her cheeks as she looked helplessly to Ansley for a solution. “A bath would really be quite nice but, well, you see my lord, we were actually kidnapped from a bath in the first place and, well…. These robes are the only clothes we have,” Acacia admitted quietly, looking at her feet.

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Ansley was more than appreciative to hear that the mage would keep the magic down to a minimum. Magic did truly make her uncomfortable, and if it could be avoided that much better. Acacia seem enamored with the mage; but Ansley knew she didn’t share the same unease about magic as she did. But honestly it was awful; magic may have gotten them out of this mess, but it was what got them into it to begin with. That and there was no real way for non-magic folk to fight back in a situation like that. Least to her knowledge. Adrain however was proving to be a man of character as he graciously turned down thoughts of a reward for their safe return. She may be a baroness but her family was not swimming in riches. Yes they could afford nice things; much nicer than most. But not without work and budget. A reward on such short notice would have hurt her family’s business; though her dad would have likely given it up gladly for her safe return.

His promise of refraining from magic unless needed was not kept for long; as he immediately started using some to call a person named Iris and light a fire. Communicating with this person Iris she could see as a necessity and could look past it. BUT the fire….the fire could very much have been started manually. Her lips pursed but she refrained from saying anything; as he was injured and she supposed that starting a fire to keep warm would be a little difficult while injured. As he talked however Ansley looked up at the sky…half a days trek. Well it was likely shorter but in the winter it very well could be that long. But if the Iris person was brining supplies for them to travel back then they would be sitting around here in nothing but their robes for quite some time. However she did note with interest that there was a type of poison to interfere with magic. Perhaps she was maybe a bit too hasty thinking non magic folk had no way to fight back…

When turned back to them to confirm yes they were going to be there a while and then suggest perhaps using the chance to use the springs Ansley nodded. ”You’ve proven to be a gentleman so far; as much as I distrust magic I do trust your intentions Duke Kaiaru. I thank you for your efforts and expense on our behalves. I think I will go bath to get this wretched stink off me, Acacia please do join me.” She turned to her friend who seemed awfully hesitant do to their state of dress. ”Acacia; if I remember correctly there are a network of springs. I’m sure there is a pool out of viewing area from the Duke. But within earshot. That and thus far Duke Kaiaru has behaved quite admiralty. I also will not be showing up to court smelling as if I spent the night in the slums. It is already going to be horrific for our reputations when it gets out we were out of the castle in nothing but our bathing robes. Never mind the circumstances that got us here, there will still be negative consequences down the line.” Ansley frowned; yes there would be aww you poor dears and that must have been traumatizing…but meanwhile they’d be snickering behind their fans at the dirty details. Whomever said that woman were the fairer sex must and most definitely had to be a man. For when it came to cattiness; the majority of women in the court were anything but fair.

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@tagged

616

we must be K I L L E R S

CHILDREN OF THE WILD ONES

Thankfully, Iris had been at the Arch when she’d received his message, so supplies came easily enough and she wasted little time. After replying to him and gathering everything he asked for, Iris hopped up on one of the horses, having loaded most of the supplies on the back of the other. She knew where Crystal Springs was, having ventured there once or twice on her own. Adrain was certainly right in thinking she would scold him later; she was hired for a reason.

It took some time, seeing as traveling with two horses is not as easy as with one, but Iris eventually found them. Once she’d reached the correct area, she sniffed them out herself, smelling blood primarily. 

Iris hopped off the horse, and led them both by foot, tracking best she could. By the time she found the source of the blood, the two maidens Adrain had rescued were off cleansing themselves, meaning Iris came across Adrain on his own. You sure aren’t making this job easy. Iris said, making her presence known. She grabbed one of the bags attached to the horse and rummaged through it, finding the vial she’d been told was an antidote. I was at the arch, and the potions guy there told me this should work. Iris knelt down and handed the vial at Adrain, flicking him in the forehead. How long have they been in the springs? Iris asked, trying to find out how long they would be waiting.
 

WHERE DO WE HAVE LEFT TO R U N ?

ulla

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Acacia nodded her agreement when Ansley spoke. Duke Kaiaru did indeed seem to have only noble intentions and had thus far proven to be nothing but a truest gentleman. Ansley’s reasoning then was quite sound and the young baroness smiled, nodding again. “That’s a very good point. Duke Kaiaru does seem quite trustworthy so far. I was not aware that the springs had such a network but that being the case, I shall be more than happy to join you then. This smell is most foul and I shouldn’t like to show up in court this way. You are right, it will be quite bad enough with the gossip as it is,” Acacia said, frowning slightly at the thought.

She hadn’t even been in the court that long and had noticed that gossip seemed to rule among the women. There was no shortage of snide comments about each other and it was sometimes enough to make her hide in her room. Acacia wasn’t dumb enough to think she was excluded in any manner, not with her background. She wasn’t a castle born baroness after all, but rather had been born and raised out in the country.

Still lost in these thoughts, Acacia followed Ansley away from the Headmaster and further into the springs and the woods until they came upon one of the smaller pools that was surrounded by trees and bushes. It would suit their needs just fine, the thick foliage being difficult to see through.

The young baroness looked around warily before shrugging out of her lavender robe, which she draped carefully over a nearby branch. Her lightly tanned arms immediately wrapped around her exposed bosom and she grimaced at Ansley. “I cannot remember the last time I bathed outside in such a manner. I’ve heard good things about this place though, so perhaps this will be one of the more enjoyable parts of our little adventure,” she said, laughing a little at the end.

Acacia made her way into the pool, sitting carefully and then sinking into the water with an audible sigh. After a moment, she slid herself all the way in, using her hands to rinse out her long, dark tresses. Resurfacing after a moment, she settled in to soak for a bit. “Ansley, this is truly relaxing. This water feels amazing,” she said, surprise coloring her tone. She hadn’t expected such from a wild spring but she almost preferred this to the castle baths.

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Ansley was glad Acacia agreed to bathe after all; she really did want to wash this stink and the feel of magic from her. As they walked to a more secluded pool, Ansley picked some leaves from an evergreen bush, gathering some of the fragrant leaves into the excess material of her sleeve. When they arrived at the pool, Ansley placed the leaves in a neat pile on the black stones that littered the area. She shrugged off her robe which reeked horribly and hung it on a nearby branch. She slipped into the water; with a grateful sigh as she submerged herself into the warm water. She undid her braid and let her long brown hair go; shortly after dunking her head below the water. Ansley came back up and pushed her hair away from her face and reached for the leaves she had gathered; crunching them in her fist and dunking them in the warm water before going on to scrub her skin with them. The scent that came from the leaves was a pleasant pine smell. Which successfully neutralized the awful scent that clung to her from the sewers.

”It has been a while for me as well; aside from very special circumstances it would be highly inappropriate for us to be bathing here. However the springs here are used for purification ceremonies; considering the circumstances of us arriving here, it would make perfect sense that we came here to rid ourselves of the filth that was thrust upon us. In fact once we are properly cleaned, I think it would be very appropriate that we say a prayer while we are in these sacred pools.” It was no secret that Ansley was highly religious; to bathe in the sacred pools of Ai without a prayer would be sacrilegious for her.

After Ansley scrubbed every inch of her body; she bowed her head in prayer. ”Ai goddess that reigns; Our purity as noble maidens has been compromised by that of man. We beseech you to cleanse us of the filth and taint that was thrust upon us.” She placed her hands over her heart and finished her prayer. Already feeling much better as a smile appeared on her face. She did fully agree with Acacia that this may be a silver lining to a dim situation. She nodded once more agreeing that the water did truly feel amazing. ”This water is not tainted with the magic of man; the castle baths require complex spells set in place in order to fill the baths back at the castle.” By this point the pine scent had filled the area making the bath all the more pleasant. ”I look forward to going back home; this adventure has certainly taken its toll on me. I do hope we are spared the gossip until we at least get some rest.”

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Acacia watched as Ansley gathered the leaves, curious as to the purpose. Once they reached the pool and Ansley began to scrub using the leaves, Acacia looked at her, impressed. Then, deciding that was an excellent idea, stood and walked quickly to a nearby bush that had caught her eye. The lovely color gave the plant its name and doubled as her favorite: lavender. She followed Ansley's lead, taking a handful of the leaves and then making her way back to the pool. She crushed them the same way and scrubbed at her skin until the lavender scent mixed with the pine from Ansley's leaves.

Acacia sighed pleasantly and settled back into the water, listening as Ansley spoke and nodding. She had heard that the pools were sacred and knew they shouldn't be bathing here but for the situation at hand. So when Ansley bowed her head in prayer to Ai, Acacia joined her, repeating the words quietly after her friend. "That was a lovely prayer, Ansley. You are as dutiful as ever," she complimented the other baroness, smiling.

As she listened to Ansley explain about the baths, she smiled knowingly. Acacia knew well that her friend did not like magic at all. "I did not know that the castle baths were built in such a way but your aversion to them makes sense. I am truly sorry that you have had to deal with the added unpleasantness of magic in this situation, Ansley. I know well that it bothers you greatly," she said, sounding as apologetic as she insisted she was. "Getting back home will certainly be quite nice, and I do mean home. As soon as we get back to the castle, I'm arranging for a visit to my family's estate. Perhaps I can escape the worst of the gossip for a while that way," she announced thoughtfully.

Finally, Acacia stood again, using her hands to wring out her long brown hair. She combed through it as best she could with her fingers and then proceeded to try and wipe the worst of the water from her skin. After that was done, she pulled her lavender robe back on. The thick wool clung to her damp skin and she tied it firmly, fussing with the white fur collar until it covered her completely. The long sleeves were capped in more fur that got in the way a bit as she tried to adjust her hair. Once she was satisfied with the fit of the robe, Acacia turned to Ansley. "We should probably go back soon," she suggested. She was a bit concerned about being out here unaccompanied and also worried about the Duke.

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”Thank you; I will really have to make time to visit the temple to give thanks for our safe return. I thought we would have been well out of Nova before we’d see the first sign of a hope to escape.” Ansley smiled at her friend knowing she did actually feel for her aversion to magic and how much of a toll it took to have it used on her in such away. ”Magic is something that was born with the deities and should only be used by the deities. If it was meant for us the fallen goddess of magic would not have been punished for giving it to the mortal race. We simply are not meant to have such power….just look at how many people miss use it so. At the very least I think more regulations should be put on the mages who do use it. Unfortunately you need mages to enforce the rules on said other mages.”

Ansley nodded agreeing it would most definitely feel good getting back home. That and the point about visiting her family sounded like the very thing she needed after this ordeal. ”Indeed; that sounds like a wonderful plan. We can arrange to travel together, I would very much like to see my father after this is all said and done.”

When Acacia stood so did Ansley agreeing that yes they probably should start heading back. At least she was feeling cleaner….though her robe didn’t smell like it. That would certainly have to be taken care of when they got back. Hopefully the person the duke had contacted had brought clean clothes. So the smell of the robe would only be temporary. Ansley dried off the best she could; braiding her wet hair and coiling up once more so her hair would not soak her further. She then put on the smelly robe and once it was tied to her satisfaction motioned for Acacia to lead the way.

When they got back to the spot where the Duke stood she spotted another rather strange looking female. The woman had horns for crying out loud; Ansley on that matter kept her opinions to herself. Half animal or not the woman had brought transportation and hopefully clothes. ”Good afternoon; our thanks for coming to our aid. It is greatly appreciated.” She gave a small curtsy. She turned back to Adrain. ”Are you feeling any better?”

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"Yeah, I know. Sorry for that Iris." he says with a small sigh. "I let my rage allow me to make less than perfect decisions and was worried these girls would be killed if I waited. They are the...mm...traditional type of young noble woman." he says, figuring Iris would get they were the softer, more fragile sort. "But in all circumstances, thank you Iris." he says with a pained smile to the satyress.

He nodded when he got the potion and read the instructions before he drank most of it, leaving about a fifth of it left. Adrain would remove the garments and armor in the way of the wound, leaving his torso exposed for a time as he looked at her. "I'll need you to apply the remainder directly to the wound where the entry happened to negate the infection point. I'm sure you'll relish in the opportunity to cause discomfort." he says with a self-defeating poke at himself as he then moved to lay on his stomach, using his garments and amror to lay on. "Afterward if you can bind it properly I would appreciate it. I didn't want to cauterize that flesh, still don't. The one with shorter hair is really magic adverse so I have to use it less. I should have asked you to bring my spear in case." he says, then waiting for Iris to do what had to be done.

It would likely be at some point that as Iris was done tending the wound, the two Baronesses would return. He knew they might be flustered at his exposed torso, but at this point he didn't care since he was having an injury treated, not trying to have an ulterior motive. As he began to put his armor back on, even with the wound it was still better than not having it especially if he has to fight directly, he responded to Ansley.

"It's treated now at least...in any case, Iris here brought you clothes and food. She can go with you to help you with the dressing if need be, I'll get things prepared to leave, but if you two need to eat first then we can wait a bit and I'll heat up tea." he says, then moving to the fire for a moment, moving his shoulder slightly to get it back used to moving.

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@tagged

616

we must be K I L L E R S

CHILDREN OF THE WILD ONES

Iris shrugged, No one really said I cared if it was easy though. Difficult can be fun. She added, to lighten the mood. It wasn’t entirely his fault. Just.. next time warn me before you do something like this. You can reach me, as you just did, before it progresses this far. I never said you had to wait for me, but at least give me a heads up. Iris snorted, imagining her trying to catch up on their little quest, but she really didn’t know what had happened. When he explained the women to her, Iris rolled her eyes. Oh joy. She sighed, keeping the rest of her comments to herself. No need to thank me- you know as well as I do I would have done this even without it being my job. And that was the truth- as nice as Kail was, Adrian was the only one in this world who had so far tried to even get to know Iris. She really appreciated all his kindness.

When he exposed his torso, Iris raised an eyebrow mockingly. Here? Now? Oh sweetie I highly doubt thats appropriate. She stuck her tongue out and took the vial from him, preparing to do as he asked. As he repositioned himself, Iris rolled her eyes again. Why do you assume I enjoy your pain? It only brings me laughter every now and again. She teased, doing as he asked, pouring the liquid on the wound. Whatever painful reaction he would have, she would remain quite, not enjoying his real pain at this point. She nodded and hummed when he asked her to bind it, beginning to do so. She tried to imagine what the two noble women looked like, but nothing came to mind. Nobles in her world were just barely less dirty than the regular folk. 

She heard the voices and the foot steps before they actually arrived, but took no notice to them, as they weren’t her priority- he was. She continued binding the wound, only glancing at their direction when one started speaking to them. She cocked an eyebrow as she watched one of them eyeball her, clearly confused by Iris’s form. Yeah, I have clothes for you both, just let me finish wrapping his wounds. Iris spoke, her voice anything but caring for the two as she turned her head back to her boss.

Once she was down, Iris stood back up, wiping the grass and dirt off of her fur, and turned to the horse with the clothing she’d brought for the girls. One of the dresses was grey and white, a lovely forested pattern down the middle. Very simplistic. The other was all black with gold accents on the elbows and waist. Iris unfolded them both and handed them out the girls. Pick one, they’re roughly the same size.


Dress one[/ur]
Dress two

WHERE DO WE HAVE LEFT TO R U N ?

ulla

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Acacia smiled warmly at Ansley as her friend thanked her for the compliment and nodded. “Yes, that is a good idea. I will gladly accompany you to the temple, Ansley,” she offered. She was also very grateful for their rescue and would be more for their safe return.

Ansley’s strong views on magic made Acacia feel conflicted, as usual. She could see the benefits of it, though she had to agree that it was often misused. There was also no doubting that mortals were clearly not supposed to have it, as Caster had been thrown from the pantheon for giving it to them. However, she nodded as Ansley pointed out that the only way to enforce regulations on mages was with other mages. It was a vicious cycle.

Her mood perked up instantly as Ansley mentioned them going home together, though, and she smiled warmly at her friend. “Oh that would be most wonderful! Traveling is always so dull by oneself,” she exclaimed, now looking forward to the trip a little more.

Acacia waited patiently as Ansley dressed herself, fussing with her hair and robe as well before joining the other woman for the walk back to the duke. They found him accompanied by a strange woman the likes of which Acacia had never seen before. She knew it rude to stare so instead focused her attention on Duke Kaiaru,which turned out to be the wrong choice as well as she noticed he was without his top. A brief blush graced her cheeks as she turned her eyes quickly downward to avoid being rude. “I’m glad to see you were able to get your wound properly tended to, Duke Kaiaru. I shall pray for you a quick recovery,” she said quietly.

As Ansley thanked the woman, whom Adrain introduced as being Iris, Acacia nodded. She looked up again, focusing on the woman’s face and smiling warmly. “Thank you very much for your assistance,” she said politely. The idea of real clothes was exciting and she grinned as they were presented with the two dresses. “They’re lovely. I like the grey and white one, in particular.” she said, reaching for that one. Ansley could have the black and gold. She thought the more noble colors would appease her friend.

Acacia waited for Ansley before heading back over to the secluded spring to get dressed, not wanting to bother Iris further. The two of them could help each other, if need be, though the dresses were simple enough. The dress she picked out went well with her coloring, bringing out her grey eyes.

As soon as they were dressed, she headed back. “Will we be heading back today, my lord, or did you intend to rest more first?” she asked Adrain. She could understand either decision, for they both had their own pros and cons.

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As soon as Ansley arrived she averted her eyes from Adrain’s exposed torso. A light blush on her cheeks. She did not fault him for it, after all he was tending to an injury. Ansley nodded as Adrain mention that Iris brought clothes. Clothes would be nice. ”Thank you, Duke Kaiaru you have been very kind. However let us not delay in traveling home."  Ansley frowned as the goat woman spoke; she had manners as rude as the animal she was combined with. Never the less Ansley nodded her thanks as she let Acacia have her pick of clothing first. Secretly being very glad that she chose the grey and white; she did enjoy the black and gold one a bit more. But she wasn’t about to complain even if Acacia had picked the other color. After all clothes were clothes; and it was better than the pink robe she had on currently. Ansley took the other dress ”Thank you; you wouldn’t have brought any undergarments by any chance?” Ansley looked hopeful; but if need she would go without; people would be none the wiser. However a lack of a breast band much go somewhat noticed; especially in the colder conditions that they had found themselves in. Ansley looked back towards Acacia when she asked if they were staying; she supposed if absolutely necessary she would stay. But really she would rather be heading home; she wouldn’t be able to rest peacefully if they stayed overnight so close to the forever forest. It simply wasn’t safe.