[action;]

[for_altea]

[Perhaps a few hours away from Union, there's a stream which leads to a small spring. And there's trees. And there's distant mountains and grass and woodland and--

And the smell of cooking.

- and a campsite. Yes, firewood's burning, signalling the sun beginning to hang low in the sky. Yes, there's certainly signs of recent life.

A rather young looking teenager, quite short, and quite thin, sits just shy of the fire upon a folded, long strip of fabric. There's a bowl in his hand, but it appears he's feeding an eevee and a purrloin. He appears to be speaking to them as well.

That is, until the eevee hears your footsteps. She struggles from the youth's lap and bounds over, the whites of her (small) teeth not all that much of a threatening sight. ]

...Argent?! Please hold!

[Soon enough, the youth moves to her side, a gloved hand on the hilt of some longsword at his side. But looking to his face should inform any visitor that he shows little chance of actually attacking. His eyes are curious, tone gentle.]

Argent, please calm down. Forgive us, friend - for we are not used to visitors. We wish you no harm, unless you wish it upon us.

[The eevee continues to snarl. The purrloin soon saunters to her side as well, looking at this visitor almost hungrily.]

Comments

[for_realsies]

*Imogen had been taking Bluescale the Tyrantrum for a walk. Trying to see if anything jogged it's lost memories from it's time with that infernal machine. She did this from time to time to save the habitat the trouble of trying to keep the large beast in line. So she was very surprised to discover a campsite and a young man out in the woods.*

Well, you're getting really close to Union, so they might keep happening.

*Imogen crouched down and pulled a packet of berries from her pocket to offer to the two Pokemon, as a peace offering.*

And most of us wish nobody any harm.

*Tyrantrum growls. Small pokemon always look tasty to the big hulking monster.*

No! Stop thinking that. If you want to eat I'll send you back to the habitat.

[for_altea]

["Really close"? Perhaps a few hours' walk. That was good at least. Marth nodded slightly, removing his hand from Falchion's hilt as soon as she spoke. There was no aggression in her voice. That was good, too. And there's a small laugh.]

...I fear my friends are used to journeys further afield. I can only apologize again, on their behalf.

[The eevee's eyes seem to widen at seeing the berries, and she directs her snarling to Tyrantrum, though takes a few steps back, closer to Marth. Of course she's intimidated by something that size! But she's not going to stop pretending to be brave!

The purrloin seems unfazed, choosing to jump onto Imogen's shoulders and sniff at her face. And the purrloin simply opens her mouth, waiting for a berry to be put into her mouth. What is effort?]

...Ah, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Marth. This... [A small gesture to the eevee] is Argent. And the lady which has taken... liberty of your shoulders, is Sable.

[There's a small, and rather proper bow.]

The sun is beginning to set - and the air is turning chill. If I might... would you and your friend like to warm yourselves by the fire? It is not much, but...

[for_realsies]

*Imogen sighed at the large partner of her's, who was still eyeing the Eevee the same way he looked at his food bowl. She held up her warp band, they had wandered a lot further than usual today, and sent her partner back to the city. Still, not to be kept without some ally, she used the band to call her Sentret, Tailspin, to her side. Whose best trait are her eyes, the better to make sure Imogen's pockets go untouched. But no point saying such a thing!*

Long way from home, seems we're seeing quite a bit of travel here around the city. And for so long we thought we were all that was left! That was Bluescale, this one is Tailspin. And I'm Imogen! It is a pleasure to meet you all!

*She managed a deep polite curtsy, even with Sable on her shoulder. The motion clashed greatly with her energy and playfulness of her words. She fed one of the berries to Sable first, tossed one over to Tailspin, then offered a third berry to Argent. Polite and friendly as she always is.*

That I think would be best, at least for a little while. Although Tailspin and I usually travel after sunset anyway. It is a bit too cold to head back yet, especially with such polite company.

[for_altea]

That is good to hear. After you.

[the eevee seems to sniff cautiously at the berry for a moment, half opening her mouth, a little unsure about taking it. A small sound came from her, and she glanced to Imogen's face before taking it, scuttling over to the fire and lying in front of it to eat her berry. Purrloin, similarly, took her berry to the same spot. Taking that as a go-ahead, Marth then moved, to the fire - offering the cape which served as something to be seated on to Imogen, deciding to simply crouch at the other side of it. Manners!

He busies himself with stoking it back into a bright blaze with the aid of a bit more firewood. He seems to think a moment - before raising his head to look at Imogen.]

...I had noticed a lack of settlements and villages around these parts. I am sorry for asking what is likely a very obvious question, but would you mind telling me why that is...? Where I came from, there are a number of small townships and populaces. This area...

[Well. Devoid was an understatement. He lowers his head again, concentrating on the fire.]

I am sorry to burden you with entertaining a foreigner's curiosity.

[for_realsies]

*Imogen casually leads the way as Tailspin takes up a position to her side. Knowing Imogen's eyes will be a bit less use in the firelight, so it's up to her to keep an eye out for trouble in the surroundings. Once Imogen takes her seat, arranging her skirts for the best modesty (as she believes this young man to be too proper for anything less), Tailspin hops up onto its tail and starts watching the surroundings.*

Are you kidding? I've never gotten to tell this story before, it's no fun to tell a story everyone knows!

*Imogen pulls out a small bottle of water and takes a sip, before offering it to Marth.*

Five hundred years ago, before the city and its walls, there was the old times. Humans spreading over the world like fire over dry forest. The world was theirs and it made the Elder Pokemon angry at the foolishness. And with it they reclaimed the world and the cities, for the wilds of their kind. But one human, we call them the Savior, stood up to them and pleaded the case for humanity.

The savior managed to strike a bargain, those with the Savior were given the city while the rest of the world was reclaimed. Those in the city built walls and towers, managing to carve a life in the small area we were given, making the most of all we had. But since the spread of people brought the old Pokemon out, we didn't dare spread past our walls.

There were small expeditions here or there out into the wilds, when we had to. And those who journeyed out to be sure things were not getting dangerous for us. That the wild ones did not plan to take our home, at least that's what everyone else feared.

Anyway, that was a long time ago, now we explore a bit more openly because of some recent... things. I usually go out because I'm very charming, and the Pokemon in the area are usually inclined to talk to me. It makes it easier to avoid the mistakes from before the city.

But enough about Union, where are you coming from? And your clothes are very different from within the city walls. I would love to get a closer work at the stiching, although the fabrics I probably know.

[for_altea]

[The Savior. He knew the story well. His own bloodline had claimed a direct linage, which of course had been their nobility. He continued to look at the fire as Imogen spoke, forcing the thoughts of them aside. However painful they were, he had to be attentive - he'd been brought up too well to be anything less in the presence of one speaking.

The story in itself was largely similar - though the news of staying bound to an area of land was certainly new. Ah, so that explained it... He couldn't help but allow himself a small smile at the mention of her calling herself charming.]

If I might, I am inclined to agree. ...Ah, you have an interest in clothing, lady Imogen?

[He looked a little thoughtful, but soon complied - moving closer so that his attire could be inspected. The stitching indeed was different. As was the cut, the hems, the style. Though it was plain to see it was garb intended for travelling, his tunic and breeches could have been classed as finery, well-made and of expensive material. His boots were well-cobbled, and his sword scabbard, circlet, and broach seemed to be made of finely wrought gold - antique looking. Perhaps even older than the savior.

He kept his head lowered, feeling slightly awkward as he was examined, yet he didn't offer any complaint.]

[rydiaofmist]

[Rydia stops in her tracks, knowing a defense display quite well--she would even be able to understand the small Eevee, should it choose to speak. She holds up her hands slightly in a submissive stance, and putting on as much of a comforting smile as she can.

The Goomy on her shoulder, if it did have hands and arms, would do the same. Instead, it settles for much the same expression as his green-haired companion.]

It's all right, I don't mean you or your friends any harm.

[for_altea]

[There's a small sound of relief, and at Rydia's words, Marth moves his hand away from the hilt of Falchion instantly. There's no hesitation in the act whatsoever - although this woman is a complete stranger, suspecting an untruth just isn't him.

....But it's Argent's style. The eevee itself does choose to speak, or rather, growl. Should Rydia choose to listen...]

"Hurt my prince and I'll hurt you! Don't think I won't! I might be small, but I can still take you AND your friend!"

[Although Marth could not quite understand the words, he understood the growl.]

My apologies. Argent's rudeness is my fault -- Perchance I've not introduced my friends to others as much as is proper. Might I ask your name, my lady? Should you or your companion wish it, we've food and a fire should you wish to rest for a while.

[rydiaofmist]

[Rydia looks surprised and almost laughs. Not an imposing sort, but a charmed kind of laugh--and one that she tries to not show her teeth--and she bends down to Argent's level.]

I promise I won't hurt your prince, and I don't doubt you could take Whyt and I.

[She looks up at Marth, shaking her head.]

It's all right.

Ooh, right! My name is Rydia, and this is my friend Whyt. [Boco was probably still off scouting.] And I'm all right, although you guys look a bit worn out. [Craning her neck, she looks at the pot.] Besides, I don't know if there's enough even for all of you, let alone for the both of us.

[for_altea]

"Glad you understand. I'll be watching you! Don't even think of anything bad!"

[Argent seems to move back to (a bemused) Sable at that, but true to her word, keeps her eyes on Rydia. Marth watched the exchange with interest. Of course, she could hear. Her attire was different to the others he had observed around Union as well. Yet at her introduction, he bowed politely, speaking softly.]

It is a pleasure, lady Rydia. My name is Marth. The [Needlessly...] vigilant one you have spoken with is Argent, and Sable is over there.

[At being told he looked worn out, he simply laughed, it almost sounding tired. She's correct, of course. He wanted to press on to Union for the night, but Sable in particular was most insistent she wanted to stop right there and then. So, they'd made camp -- almost at the finishing line. ]

You are very perceptive. We have journeyed from an abandoned village from that direction. [A small point into the distance.] It was quite exhausting. The terrain beyond this area is not kind. [But nor was what befell that village.]

....It was razed, though nature appears to have claimed it now. It appeared long since abandoned, and thieves were in the act of pilfering what was left of people's belongings from it. ...It is much too late to do anything of value... but they had to be stopped.

[What they were doing was practically graverobbing. And he had stopped them. Most fled, of course, with only moderate to serious injury. Sable seems to say something to Argent.]

"And it was hilarious the thieves thought us ghosts. I highly doubt they'll return. .... Argent, dear, are you really going to spend all night looking at that child? It's exhausting me just to look at you..."

[rydiaofmist]

[She chuckles.]

Just Rydia is fine. It's very nice to meet you all.

[His story.... The smile slowly leaves her face, exchanged for one of surprise and, something else: a bit of anger. A village, burned to the ground? She clenched a fist at her side and lowered her head slightly, the news hitting a bit too close to home for her.]

Those poor people...

[for_altea]

....I cannot agree more. Whomever did that, for whatever reason... if there is anything remotely akin to justice left in this world, they must be brought to justice.

[The Purrloin seems to be conveying the conversation to the Eevee. If Rydia's listening...]

"That's humans. Some Enlightened are even like that too. But look at her, talking like it's happened in the last five minutes. More like five years ago. Marth didn't notice, he wasn't around then. I was~! I had a cute little den around those parts before I moved to the forest, saw the whole thing. That place? I know it. It was called Mist... though the name Charcoal seems to suit it more now. I don't even know why Prince Marth bothered with risking his life to protect it. It's gone. Even the ghosts have left. So thieves want to steal everything there worth stealing. Who cares?"

[rejected_trash]

[Through a bit of luck, Sync has found the one long shadow that's a bit ahead of the rest even if the hour is late, and it hangs lower still as he takes a few paces forward. There is a chirp, and Scherzo, Sync's Fletchling, perches on his shoulder. While it is regarding Argent with amusement, it turns shortly to focus on the Purrloin.]

I can't say I am either. My home is convinced it is the only human civilization in this region.

[for_altea]

[And the Purrloin's looking at Scherzo! She tilts her head slightly, and speaks to the tiny bird pokemon.]

"Don't waste your energy, little one. Catching and eating you would be too much trouble right now..."

Thank you. [Marth responds, moving his hand away from Falchion. Thankfully, he didn't have to unsheathe it. Not, like Sable, for the sake of too much trouble. Nothing of the sort. He simply doesn't want to fight needlessly. Of course he doesn't.]

You are an explorer? Should you have need of it, I would offer any rest you might require here.

[rejected_trash]

[Scherzo chirps happily at Sable's reassurance, puffing up and tucking his head under a wing for a nap. Small talk can wait.]

You sure? I could be a bandit.

[Regardless, Sync steps out of the shadow finally.]

You don't seem to be from Union; your clothes are different. [Though on a second pass, Sync sees what might have been a few Union-made items, and comes over to the fire to warm up a little.] I might rest for a bit though, I didn't plan on being out this late.

[for_altea]

I am certain. Besides that, if you were a bandit, would a blade not be between my ribs before you would have responded?

[The question's innocuous, lighthearted. Unfortunately, Marth wasn't ...quite one for mistrust. More's the pity. He moves to allow the stranger access to the fire, moving to collect some water from the stream for the stranger, and refills a bowl with... well, what's been cooking, leaving it at his side if he so requires it.

Of course, what's been cooking isn't exactly... nice. Mainly it's a broth made with whatever could be found. Not!poisonous leaves, not!poisonous roots, and other bits and bobs deemed semi-edible. Compared to union food, it's going to be disgusting. But it's sustenance, that's all that matters... to Marth, anyway.]

If you would like, you can rest as long as you need. Would you tell me your name?

[rejected_trash]

I might have to start carrying one for that.

[Marth's humor is a bit morbid, but Sync pays it no mind. Picking up the bowl and staring at it for a long moment. Scherzo chirps and nudges against Sync's head. Glancing at the Fletchling with a measure of disdain, he takes a spoonful, and makes a face.]

Ug-Thanks. [He takes a big drink of water.] Call me Sync.

[thedivinevoice]

Ah, certainly not. I was merely surprised to find travelers in such a... place...

[The woman who has appeared in the campsite trails off as she gets a better look at the face of the boy who sits before her. The flickering flames cast such shadows across his face that she can hardly make out his features accurately and yet it was unmistakable -- ]

...

...........Mar-Mar?

[for_altea]

[He's surprised. Very much so, actually. Why is this woman looking at him as if she knows him? And... Mar-Mar? What is this? He stammers slightly, remaining as polite as ever, of course! But he... just doesn't understand. He's disarmed, entirely. As is Argent.]

"Mar-Mar?! Prince Marth knows this woman?!"

[Sable just gives a switch of her tail.]

"She's a shifter. Probably half-mad. Don't let it bother you, dear..."

[Marth, of course, shows none of the apathy Sable is all too apt at giving. He steps closer, holding his hands up slightly to signify he means no harm.]

I am deeply sorry to cause you grief, but I fear you have me mistaken for another. If I might ask, who are you?

[thedivinevoice]

[Tiki will continue to stare, his words scarcely reaching her through the fog that had suddenly enveloped her mind. The banter of the Pokemon isn't registered at all.

This person was...

This person...

It was impossible...]

I... Yes. Of course. You... You look very much like someone I once knew. Long, long ago.

[A shaky smile - Tiki doesn't lose her composure often, and she finds that she isn't quite certain how to recover it.]

Please forgive me.

My name is Tiki.

[for_altea]

[It was certainly the oddest introduction he had ever had, but Marth barely contemplated it. What was important was the fact that this woman - Tiki - looked almost as if she'd had all of the blood drained out of her face. He extended a hand slowly, eyebrows furrowing with concern.]

No- there is nothing to forgive, lady Tiki. Please forgive my directness, but you do not look well. If you would come with me, it would likely be best that you warm yourself by the fire. Would you find that agreeable?

[He'd feel a great deal better if she chose to. It isn't as if she looks weak, in fact, pretty strong. But she also looks like she's about to faint...]

[thedivinevoice]

Perhaps that would be for the best.

[Even his voice... But no. There was no use in thinking upon such things. It was purposeless.]

I had sought to aid you in this wilderness should you have need of it... but it appears I have fallen into the opposite role. But still - why is it that you are wandering in this place?

[notepad_necromancer]

[After the accidental video of her that her Duskull companion caused just the day before, Eucliwood had started to make her away away from the city again. The smell of someone cooking is what drew her to this small campsite. She normally didn't eat all that much, so she was rather hungry.

Not that she'd ask for any, but maybe just the smell would sate her temporarily. She'd lapsed into a sort of meditative state when she felt the surge of emotions from the Eevee who rushed towards her.

Her Duskull giggled mischievously at the small fox Pokémon as Eu stared blankly at it. Then she glanced up at the young man who apparently was bonded to this particular Pokémon. While Eucliwood normally strayed away from human contact unless it was necessary, fleeing would look suspicious. She shakes her head at the mention of harm. Eucliwood didn't like fighting. She paused for a moment, taking her notepad out of a small, frayed bag at her side before jotting down a note.]

It's fine.

[for_altea]

[A mute? His eyes struggled in the dim light to read the note, and he nodded lightly, moving his hand from Falchion to indicate he meant no harm. Argent continued growling though, her gaze now fixed on the Duskull which had laughed at her. Of course she was percieving that as an insult. She was a proud creature, very much so. However, none of that could be seen in the youth.]

It grows dark. As you are no threat, it would honour me should you feel you are inclined to rest here for a while.

[Polite as ever!]

[notepad_necromancer]

[While Eucliwood definitely wasn't mute, it was best that everyone believed she was. She didn't want to have to answer any questions about her voice or what it was capable of. Her gaze drifted to the two Pokémon for a moment, and she had to struggle not to smile a bit at them. It was pretty cute.

At his suggestion, she hesitated for a moment, but shook her head again. It had been such a long time since she'd actually held any form of actual conversation with someone other than a few written words, and the food smelled very tempting, Eucliwood just...couldn't bring herself to accept his offer.]

I can't.