Way Down in the Hole — IC

[Scratcherclaw]

Alerio strokes Alba's mane, giving the wooded city a parting glance as the hooves trot southward. "We have a long journey ahead, Alba," he whispers to her. "But together, we may yet bring a new dawn to this land." He grasps the reins, his grip weak for a fleeting moment of contemplation, of remembrance. Then, it tightens, determined.

The air is cool, a breeze rustling the trees as he moves down the trodden path, alone again for the first time in many suns and moons. Alone. But not without allies. These bonds cannot be broken, and I will fulfill my promise. For them. As Vyridis fades on the horizon, replaced by rolling hills and foliage, he grabs the reins with clenched fists and coaxes Alba on, steadier and faster, toward home. El-unod, grant us safety and swiftness.

His flail jingles at his hip, hoofbeats clopping on the road like the rumble of thunder. A lone eagle soars overhead, graceful and commanding in the swift breeze. Through dawn and dusk, the Talon pushes onward, truly unfettered.

[Namelessjake]

Samiira returns Amelira's smile with a warm smile of her own.

"Different," she answers, before bringing her cup to her lips and taking another sip.

"Things did not go entirely to plan, it was certainly not how I would have approached things alone, but we were able to free many from their chains, and hopefully stopped many more from being enslaved in future. I'm not sure I would have been able to achieve all we did alone," she explains, her feelings on the mission mixed, with their achievements lying in the shadow of the deaths of Velasco and several of the slaves.

Alone I would have infiltrated them, bided my time, but with the storm time was against us.

[BartNL]

Hadrurus shakes his head. "She wouldn't. She made a choice that was only hers to make. I believe she will continue our mission, of fighting injustice. Just on her own for now, and in the battles she has chosen herself. I take full accountability, still. My heart aches, knowing I have lost her for now. My head hurt when I wonder if her being there could have prevented Velasco's death." The large man's eyes tear up as he chokes on his words.

[Chanchabruhh]

Pohaku listens to Hadrurus speak and sees the emotions fighting him and he offers a soft but firm grip on his shoulder and lets out a deep sigh and nod

[Fialova]

Josie's recent stint of melancholy briefly breaks while she heads down the street to her home. Though she knows it unlikely, she allows herself to be hopeful that when she opens the door, Cassandra will be there waiting for her. A spring is in her step for the first time in awhile as she makes her way up the staircase outside, leading to their small loft. A smile creeps onto her face as she reaches for the doorknob and twists, pushing the creaky slab of wood forward into her - their - room. 

Once inside, her smile immediately dissipates, her normal disinterested expression returning at the sight of the empty room before her. It is cleaner, how... nice, she thinks, as she notices the changes that Cassandra has made in her absence. It actually feels lived in. Not like a temporary reprieve from work, like it always has been. The faintest glimmer of the smile returns as she steps over to their bed, removes her shoes, and allows her bare feet to enjoy the softness of the new rug. How very her. Turning, she notices the letter placed on the bedside table and retrieves it, opening it to pore over its contents.

Zhou Si, her smile grows, seeing her name properly written for the first time since she'd come to this land. Her eyes flick back and forth as she reads each line, quickly absorbing the other woman's words. You miss me, huh? she thinks, towards the end, the admission equal parts sweet and amusing to her. Of course I miss you too. She finishes the letter with a large smile - even larger than it had been at the anticipation of seeing her lover. She stands again, stepping over to the desk and grabbing a parchment and quill to write a return message.

'Dearest Cassandra,' she begins, before looking it over. That is more than she put, and so formal. I shouldn't be so flowery. She sighs, before pausing a moment to consider her following words. The next hour is spent writing, and then second-guessing, several sentences in response. Her parchment ends up looking like a mess of crossed-out, scribbled-out, and rewritten sentences. She finally comes up with a fitting reply, in her mind, and rewrites it from the beginning again on a fresh parchment, the original of which she folds and places in her pack for later disposal.

Letter to Cassandra

Cassandra,

It has been a long time since anyone has called my by my real name, let alone written it. You did well, and I look forward to teaching you more about my home and native language as you ask. It is refreshing to know someone in this land is interested in it, even if you have some bias as to why.

Your assignment sounds perfect for your skills, I am sure you will be splendid at it. I wish I could join as well, but I will be getting a new assignment soon. I am not sure what it will be yet, but I hope it is different from the previous one. Our mission to take out the Powder Kegs' operation was a success, but it came at a dire cost. One of the members assigned our groups seems to have deserted, and young Velasco was killed in the assault on the keep. To make matters worse, we have now learned that Alerio is leaving to return to his Temple, so that leaves me the last of our escapees still stuck together. 

I miss you too. I try not to. I try to focus on the mission and in leading, but it is difficult to be a leader when all I have known is isolation and self-reliance. In the past, if I failed, I had only myself to blame. Now, under my leadership, a young man whom we depended on is dead, and the woman I'd have sought comfort in is not here for me to lean my head on. The journey back from the fortress felt endless, and my status as leader a heavy burden.

Then I came home, and saw your handiwork, and, most importantly, your letter. Despite the hardships, you've managed to ease my worries and put a smile back on my face with your letter. I look forward to that day, when we are both here in the city, when we can explore it and get up to no good together. I can't think of a better person to spend that time with.

Your loyal hound,

Zhou Si

Proud of her work, and still feeling the elation from the small connection the letter had given her, Josie neatly folds her own response and places it in the same spot on the bedside table. She then places her shoes back on and leaves her home, closing and locking the door behind her. At the top of the steps she stretches before shrinking to the ground in the form of a common mutt, descending the steps on her four canine feet and leaving the property to take a stroll around town without being bothered.

OOC

With no one to interact with in person, and no followup correspondence to write until she next returns home, I'd like to roleplay a small slice of life period for Josie while the others are doing their RPs. She'd just be wandering as a dog, observing the goings-on of the city from that perspective, stretching her legs incognito. 

[ratwizard]

Pohaku & Hadrurus

Yzgo nods solemnly at Hadrurus, something in his expression changing, growing softer. "Thank you. These are the words I wished to hear. I will tell the others that she is hardly a liability."

"Take some time in the city," he says, gesturing in a gentle, dismissing manner. "I will see you soon enough for the next steps."

As you both turn to leave, you hear Yzgo speak again. "Pohaku, a moment."

The Okani stays behind while Hadrurus takes his leave.

Pohaku

"I've asked around about your sister. Nobody has seen or heard anything yet," he explains, a frown on his face. "I'm sorry I couldn't have better news. But we will keep listening, keep watching. If she's anything like you, she'll be thriving."

Samiira

Amelira listens carefully, eyes wide in enrapturement, both hands clutched on her cup. "That is a great joy to hear, Sami. Your talents may have lasted you in solitude for years, but it is clear that they are needed for more."

She looks out the window toward her son, her smile waning. "He asked about you. I mean — well, he always does. But in time he's grown more curious. Truly curious. I did not... know what to say. I have not told him the truth yet." Amelira looks back to you, and you hear the question from her eyes even if her mouth stays shut.

Josie - OOC

Sure, however makes sense to you. This will be my last DM update before I skip forward to the next Unfettered operation, but I can include a response in that post.

[Namelessjake]

"A child's curiosity can be boundless," Samiira says with a smile, as her thoughts turn to memories of her own children around the same age.

"He's probably not old enough to know the truth, not the whole truth at least, but I can explain enough to him for now," she says with a smile.

[Chanchabruhh]

Pohaku takes a breathe "Well Yzgo i appreciate you looking into it thank you and yes she is a wall of strength i have no doubt my sister is still out there taking on her own battles but i do wish for her to return to me at some point.. i do miss her very much.. thank you Yzgo."

Pohaku says as he forces a smile more or less like a smirk of thank you before giving him a sign of respect extending his arm over his heart and giving warriors salute from his people as he trusts him and respects him as one of his own

[ratwizard]

Mardia, 31st of Esperos — 6E Y79

Lucien

It has been three weeks, now, since you first met the man named Cymren in a cramped room of the Missing Talon Tavern — tears of desperation and pain in your eyes as you plead for a chance at redemption and purpose.

It has been two weeks since your first task undertaken for the Unfettered: a busy-work jaunt to a small village on the outskirts, passing notes that you doubt were anything more than placebos meant to test your impulsivity. You recall the cold stares of the tradesmen and -women, the curt words they spoke as the handoff was made.

It has been one week since your last feed. Drunk off Drekkish wine (a tragic and mealy vintage, unbecoming and hardly representative of the region's true bounty), the two of you had found yourselves in the young man's quarters — the difference between kiss and bite lost to the daze of that evening, for one of you at least.

Tonight, lacking any other instruction or context, you've been called to the charcoal workshop, the closest thing to a consistent meeting place that the Unfettered has. You've heard from Kaulitz not to get used to it as the site is meant to change in another few weeks' time.

You arrive in the courtyard, the practice targets and conditioning equipment put away, the bare clearing unrecognizable as a covert meeting ground aside from the other half-dozen figures that converge. Yzgo, you recognize. The others, you don't.

Everyone Else

The evening of the following day since your arrival, you are called to the charcoal workshop, the closest thing to a consistent meeting place that the Unfettered has. You've heard from Kaulitz not to get used to it as the site is meant to change in another few weeks' time.

You arrive in the courtyard, the practice targets and conditioning equipment put away, the bare clearing unrecognizable as a covert meeting ground aside from your presence.

Yzgo is here, as is another face that you have not seen before. He is a short, lithe, elvish-seeming man; young in the cheek.

"Good evening," Yzgo says, his voice soft, hardly heard above the buzz of the cicadas from the trees outside the courtyard's walls. "It is good to see each of these faces again. I believe an introduction is in order." He gestures toward the newcomer. "This is Lucien. He has proven himself to our leadership with his words and his actions. And now that we have decided he will be joining your efforts next week, I am sure that he will prove himself to you."

The massive elf turns to Lucien, his head cocked down as he studies the younger man. "Lucien," he says, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Your inclusion here was no chance. Instead, it was a calculated effort. You join these five at a crucial moment in our series of targeted operations. You see, there were three others before you, three whose strengths we can no longer lean on. Cowardice, sacrifice, and inner purpose: each are the reasons why. But we have seen your ability, seen your diligence. It is true: you are a risk. As are any one of us, in fact. But risks are the tool of the oppressed, the revolutionary, the idealist. Risks are a weapon that cannot be disarmed. And I am not alone in saying that this group of you, from many places, and many skillsets? You are less a risk; you are a certainty. A certainty that the people of these lands and beyond will see a better future. And that starts here. Let us break all chains, together."

He smiles. "But enough of my rhetoric. Why don't you all welcome our newest Unfettered? There will be time to learn about each other on the road, but as my mother said, first impressions are never forgotten."

[Chanchabruhh]

Phaku will enter and take a look around giving a nod to everyone with a grunt and look towards Lucien before sizing him up

"Hm hello everyone and earths blessing to you all.. i see we have a new member i am Pohaku pleased to meet you." He says as rests his Halberd on the wall next to him and does a Okani warrior salute of respect before crossing his arms waiting for the others to speak

[Namelessjake]

Samiira studies the newcomer's face for a moment, taking in every contour and line, a habit learned over years of impersonating people.

"Samiira," she says, along with a nod by way of introduction. Hopefully the blemish on Ygzo's recruiting was only a singular error, she hopes.

"Nice speech," the assassin says, turning to Yzgo, teasing the elf slightly. "Who's next on the chopping block?"

[Scratcherclaw]

Lucien's gaze moves across the room, taking in the sight of his new apparent allies. Quite a colorful bunch. Like a theater troupe, but with more dirt and fewer frills. He listens to Yzgo's words, a pit forming in his stomach at the mention of risk, feeling judged as the outsider among these ranks. I guess he's right though. I barely know what in the hells I'm doing. But... I have to push forward. He lets out a quiet sigh. To have the devotion this man has for his cause. Is that something even I can have too? Better this than the Three-Eyed Prick though.

He manages a charming smile, well-practiced to hide his fangs and conceal the uncertainty stirring beneath the surface. "Yes, Lucien Lejeune," the man manages. "I am grateful that you and yours agreed to take this chance on me. I won't let you all down." Though his accent is a peculiar one—a regional variety of Ghrystok formed as generations of natives and Imardanians comingled in Chevalle—his words remain steady, confident, and earnest.

"A pleasure, Pohaku and Samiira," he adds with a nod, taking Yzgo's mother's extremely common advice to heart. That's what Sabine said when she refused to shop at the closest grocer... because another customer insulted her and the grocer didn't "defend her honor." Of course she probably started it anyway, the bitch.

He clasps his hands together nervously, though his visage remains collected. "I'm looking forward to getting to know each of you, and proving myself as more than just a handsome stranger." He flashes a smirk, quickly turning it into a lighthearted smile to not appear cocky. First impressions. I need them to like me, just in case they find out.

[Fialova]

Josie looks over the man, taking in his physique and facial expressions. She does not find much to be immediately impressed by in his stature or how he holds himself, but she knows Yzgo is not one to shower compliments without reason. "Greetings, Lucien," she says to the elf, holding out a hand to shake as the others had. "I'm Josie." Hopefully he will prove to be as useful as the others we now lack, she thinks, remaining steely-faced at the thought, no longer grieving the loss of Velasco or the departure of the rest.

"I doubt you will be able to fill all three gaps in our roster, but if Yzgo believes in you then I imagine you will be quite useful in our missions going forward." She offers the man a weak smile, glad to be accepting an elf into the fold. So many of us fight in service of the elves who have been so systematically targeted by slavers, it is nice to see more of them choosing to fight as well. He is certainly brave to do so. Though I suppose we all are, to choose this life. 

 

[BartNL]

Hadrurus steps forward and offers Lucien his hand.

[Scratcherclaw]

Lucien manages a smile, shaking the hands of the other two and noticing the second opted not to introduce himself. A quiet type, I guess. Broody. He gives a nod to Josie and replies, "That would be a tall order for anyone, but maybe I can fill at least two. I can't imagine the coward Yzgo mentioned would be hard to surpass." He shrugs. "But I'll do my best to fill the empty shoes that came before me." At least the one pair is easy. But sacrifice and inner purpose? I'll be living in a wide-casting shadow for some time.

 

[ratwizard]

A tall, broad-shouldered, and aging human steps toward Lucien, offering a thick hand as well as a careful nod. "Brandys," he introduces himself to the initiate with a weary smile. "Welcome to our growing number, despite the sounds of it."

Yzgo claps his palms together, grinding them like a millstone. "Good. Now, let us speak of your next task."

"Reza Reza," he begins. "For those who do not know them, they are a group of dwarven ritualists that splintered from their greater community in Kelbis, perhaps fifty years ago. They've a fortress somewhere in the mountains of Valdurn, though they bear no relation to those living there. Reza Reza are what Cymren calls an outlier in this scene — instead of selling their captured slaves to places like the Hole, they perform twisted blood sacrifices in their Gods' name. However, they themselves are not our target per se."

"Instead: the Principality of Yjolvich. For the last year, Prince Gizegas has been casting a blind eye toward Reza Reza's raiding, pulling much of his support away from border villages and allowing his people to be dragged away or forced to pay tribute. Separately, things came to a head when the Prince declared a trade war against the industry leaders in Vyridis, and while we do not necessarily share all of Vyridis' aims and especially not their wealth, it is a matter of necessity that the Unfettered take action. Because of the growing tensions, our contacts and agents embedded in Yjolvich are now at risk of discovery or even greater danger."

"And so, Cymren's plan is two-fold. You will track down and adopt the personas and raiment of Reza Reza ritualists. Masquerading as their blood sages and barbarians, you will attack deep into the heart of Prince Gizegas' territory, at a mining camp close to Yjolvich itself. You will spill the blood of any of his soldiers and guards there to drive the point home. Our agents will have gathered there ahead of time, and you will extract them under the guise of kidnapping. In doing all of this, the Prince's unofficial contract with Reza Reza will be broken, and he will be forced into war with them."

"Remember, escalation is key. The Unfettered is not enough. The wealth and ties that Vyridis holds is not enough. We must force the leaders of Ghrystbehn into action one by one. We must play them against the slavers, the supremacists, and even each other. Do you understand? I presume you have questions. Please, let me hear them."

[Namelessjake]

Ah the bigger picture, Samiira thinks as she listens to Yzgo talk, having heard similar words from Krendal numerous times over the years. These soldiers and guards might not be slave owners or slavers themselves, but they still stand between us and them, even if it may be unwittingly, she thinks, returning to a series of familiar thoughts, ones she has dwelled on much throughout her career as a assassin.

"No questions here, it's a sound plan," the serranborn replies, looking to the others wondering if they might have reservations, particularly the newer and less tested members of the group.

[Scratcherclaw]

Lucien listens, mouth agape, as Yzgo explains the mission ahead. Twisted blood rituals. That's... familiar. He lets out a sigh, not expecting his hopeful road to redemption to take such a direction. Doing bad things for the right reasons. Is that it? I suppose if they're complacent, then they're just as guilty? He frowns, finding himself lost in the complexity of morality. But, I have to trust them.

The half-elf shelves the thought, knowing the outcome must be important for them to be tasked with it. Well, if anyone can masquerade as a cultist, it would be me. Hells, the rest of them may need a lesson or two. And there are some things you will never forget... He crosses his arms and cocks his head as the leader finishes speaking. "You say these are dwarven ritualists, yes? How are we to pass as dwarves?" Perhaps two dwarves in an overcoat might pass for an orc, but this? "Or have others heard their false promises and joined their ranks as well?" Hells know ours was a diverse one, with desperate and ambitious alike brought in.

[Fialova]

Josie smiles as Yzgo speaks, the mission sounding exactly like the kind she was so accustomed to, though on a much larger scale. Finally, something I am actually good at, she thinks, the idea of hunting down people complicit in, and accepting of, the region's slavery filling her with a sense of calm approval. 

"If this prince is so eager to allow those under his protection to be taken for these disgusting rituals, I'll be glad to put his plans to an end. Scum like that are the reason I joined the Unfettered in the first place," Josie says, her words calm despite the biting tone. "He and this cult alike need to go down, so yes, I am eager to assist."

Listening to the newcomer's question, she raises an eyebrow and turns back to Yzgo. He makes a point, but I would expect that was already considered, or else this assignment would be going to an all-dwarven group of agents. Though perhaps it is an oversight, let's see what he says.

[Namelessjake]

Not a problem for me at least, Samiira thinks at Lucien's words, though she keeps quiet awaiting Ygzo's response, not wanting to disrupt the briefing with another reveal of her shapeshifting abilities.

[ratwizard]

"They are primarily dwarven, yes, but since their schism with the original Kelbis chapter, they've grown to include a wide array of members," Yzgo explains. "Orcs, primarily, though our sources have also mentioned seeing humans or even elves amongst their number. It seems that blood is blood, and they seem neither likely to discriminate in member nor in victim."

"In addition, some of the ritualists adorn themselves with rather... extravagant flair and garments. Depending on how you might mimic them, your identities could — and should — be made considerably obscured."

[Namelessjake]

"I imagine any witnesses will likely be concerned with their own safety, over getting a good look at us too," Samiira adds.

[Scratcherclaw]

"Ah, no further questions then," Lucien says with a confident nod, needing little guidance when it comes to sacrificial cults. Extravagance and adornment, hm? Thank the hells, I was worried we'd be forced to wear plain black hooded robes. Those always itched like a whore at sunrise. His thoughts wander in familiarity. Though my attire certainly made a statement. A crown of thorns, raven feather cloak. Those cultists may be evil, but they did not spare an effort in fashion.

"That is true too," he replies to Samiira. "And whatever witnesses may be too overcome with fear to remember much. Fear tends to cloud one's judgment and memory, I've... observed." Fear and lust both, the most primal of urges.

[Chanchabruhh]

Pohaku nods and looks to think for a moment "Hm ritualistic is something i can play into since that's how we did a lot of ceremonies back home but is there anything like really specific we need to know i think i got it down but just want to double check here."

[Fialova]

"Fortunately, becoming unrecognizable won't be hard for me," Josie says with a shrug, pondering their instructions and what the others might do to blend in. I suppose I am fortunate to never need a reason for disguise, when I have one that blends in nearly everywhere already. "I am happy to aid in anyone else's disguise, as loyal companion or ferocious beast. Should they not be keen on a hound in their midst, I can always scout the surroundings and await an opportunity to enter unnoticed."

[Namelessjake]

Well if Josie is bringing it up... everyone else already knows anyway, Samiira thinks, turning to Lucien.

"It's better that you know now. Josie possesses a power that allows her to transform into a hound," she explains. "I can also change my appearance at will, so appearing as a dwarf will not be an issue, for me at least," she adds.

[Scratcherclaw]

Lucien listens to the divulgence of secret abilities, mouth somewhat agape in surprise: surprised that they shared so freely, yet not surprised that such powers exist. Well, that was awfully forthcoming. He glances at Josie, her abilities sounding all too familiar. She's not...? No, only those stuffy clergy got that "blessing."

"Unexpected, but a welcome boon," the young vampire says, giving the pair a quick smirk. "I've heard rumors of those with similar abilities to yours back in Ellisport, Miss Josie. But to meet one such in the flesh." Heard rumors, fought beneath the midnight sky... Damn those werewolves to the hells. He lets out a quiet sigh, wondering if he would be so readily accepted if he revealed his own nature, or if he would be deemed a monster. It is one thing to transform into a beast at will. But it is another to be an undead abomination that feeds on the living. He frowns. No. I am not an abomination. I am me. And I will prove the Church wrong.

"In the interest of being honest," he begins, a twisted knot forming in his stomach. His internal fear takes hold, desperately pleading not to reveal the whole truth. He winces, knowing he has to reveal something, and lets out another sigh. "I... was raised in a cult not unlike this one we now face, stolen as a babe from what I can tell." He pauses, still finding it difficult to reveal this truth. "I've since escaped and seek to atone for what they made me do. But, this also makes me uniquely experienced with ritualistic cults. I hope that knowledge will be of some use."

[Fialova]

"I was not aware the Church had others with such a skill, interesting," Josie responds to Lucien, raising an eyebrow at the news. They are not kind to outsiders with different beliefs, so it is unlikely they are devotees of the Hound as well. It would be interesting to know what specifically he means. She listens as he explains his pasting, nodding at his final words.

"That does make you a useful asset in this task. I hope you will be eager to share with us your experiences, even if they are painful. It could help us in understanding our current foe, and how to beat them at their game." Did Yzgo know this when assigning him to our group? It seems strange if that is just a coincidence. Fortunate either way.

[BartNL]

"I am no stranger to costumes." The large man says, some annoyance in his voice. I don't like this. Isn't there another way to deal with this? But if there's not, I can't refuse. No, the goal is good.

[ratwizard]

Yzgo seems untroubled by the collective admissions, a crooked smile on his face as he listens quietly. At Pohaku's question, the massive elf turns and nods. "You should make for a village named Ebrez, in the hills north of Yjolvich. Mostly elves there, and with that, a bit of sentiment with the Iron Tide, so don't overstay your welcome. Ask around for Tobiko. Old bastard of an elf who used to be one of Olatya's runners, way back when I was a pup. He won't give you much, but I think he's still in the know on Reza Reza's activity around there. Might be he can help you track some of them down to study — or ambush. Your call, just get the job done."

"As for the lead contact in Yjolvich, you're looking for Azumil. Short, thin orcish fellow with a bald head. You'll be striking Lowbucket Mine, and Azumil will gather the rest of our contacts once the time comes."

[Chanchabruhh]

"Hm sounds good to me i'm ready to head out whenever everyone else is." I suppose my ancestors look to make me test myself in other areas aside from my ferocity but if it is for a cause i deeply care for then i shall answer

[Namelessjake]

Ambushing a Reza Reza group would be a good way to gain convincing disguises, and getting to kill some of those bastards ourselves will be nice, Samiira thinks, nodding along with Ygzo's words as she takes in the information. Ebrez, Tobiko, and then Azumil in Yjolvich.

"Then it sounds like we have a first course of action," the serranborn says. "As am I," she adds after Pohaku speaks.

[ratwizard]

"Good. Your sense of initiative is pertinent, actually," Yzgo says, looking between Samiira and Pohaku. "We have decided for this operation that the two of you will serve as its leaders. And one last thing — Cymren has sourced a small stock of riding horses. You may bring them should you wish. But if they are killed or left behind, we will not be able to replace them so easily as they arrived."

OOC

If there are any non-magical & mundane armor, weapons, or other adventuring gear you wish to outfit yourself with, now is the time to requisition it from the Unfettered. After this point, your equipment choices will be locked in. Please take a look through your sheet and confirm any final changes.

You also have the option of taking riding horses. However, if they die or are left behind, you will not have access to them on the next operation.

[Namelessjake]

Info

What do the travel times to Yjolvich look like on foot vs a horse?

[ratwizard]

OOC

It's roughly 125 miles from Vyridis to Yjolvich.

Typical travel on foot, I'd treat as 25 mi / day, whereas on horseback you'd be at 40 mi / day. So it's a difference of taking 3 days versus 5 (each way).

[Namelessjake]

Pohaku must have led in fights before, but me a leader? Samiira thinks, surprised by Yzgo's revelation with working as part of a team still a new phenomena for her. And why the change? Are Josie and Hadrurus being punished for Velasco's death? She wonders, unsure if her own leadership will be any better.

She nods at Ygzo, accepting the responsibility.

"It's quite a trek to Yjolvich, taking the horses should save us a few days. We can always tied them up out of sight before attacking the mine too, so they shouldn't be in any danger," she says, looking to Pokahu to see if he agrees.

[Scratcherclaw]

Lucien feels some relief at Josie's words, glad his new comrades aren't holding his past against him. I guess we all have a past we're running from. I hope they'll accept the other secret just as easily though. He listens intently as Yzgo continues explaining, not wanting to miss any key details and end up jeopardizing the mission or their safety. Lots of elves in Ebrez, huh. At least that should make it easier to blend in for me. But I should still tread carefully. Who knows how they feel about half-breeds.

He looks to Samiira, nodding to the leader's suggestion. "A sound suggestion. The quicker we are there, the longer we have to... study our prey." And prey they shall be. I could use a feeding...

OOC

Gain Tent & Bedroll

[BartNL]

Hadrurus smiles, and for the first time in days he seems to relax somewhat. Pohaku and Samiira will do a good job. I hope they won't struggle as much with the burden of command as I did.

OOC

I refill any pitons/javelins/etc. lost

[Chanchabruhh]

Pohaku looks to Samiira and gives a nod

"Yes taking horses would be what i would say if we are trying to get to our destination quicker and more efficient plus yes hitching them somewhere away from the mines just incase would be a good call here, I can be a leader i led a few battles in my homeland and in a few arena team fights what do you say Samirra i beleive you could be a efficient leader and you have my support." 

He says as he crosses his arms waiting to see if anyone has anything to say

[Namelessjake]

"And you mine," Samiira says in reply to Pohaku.

OOC

I’ll take some thieves’ tools, thought I had some already but it appears not.

[Fialova]

Josie feels a mixture of relief and regret at Yzgo's announcement. I thought I'd be more excited, to no longer bear the burden of leadership. But why? Are we going to be changing leaders frequently, or did the two of us prove ourselves unworthy? The pain of her own failures quickly washes away again, however, as the relief more completely replaces it. But then, I'd never desired to lead to begin with. I am sure the others will succeed where we faltered. "I believe you will both do well," Josie says, offering Pohaku and Samiira a warm smile.

OOC

gain tent, fire kit, bell and whistle