ROLEPLAY HQ - crow-prince

The fae are illusive creatures, never letting their presence be known. Mortals had heard of them through stories, though no one suspected they would be real. However, the fae themselves were wellverse with nature, and wild magic coursing through their veins. Terrifying, and powerful many thought then to be. With their own society. And even now. Their crowned prince had gone missing. Ash opened his eyes. He felt the bindings around his hands, thick, metal chains, however they didn’t seem to be iron. He softly muttered a string of curses as Ash sat up leaning against the wall. “Breathe..” He whispered softly to himself. He was staying calm, Ash could still feel his magic, though it was weak. His eyes, a soft blue with flakes of gold, searched around the room. He could faintly see in the darkness, trying to come with a plan. He had to make it back home. @Al the Killer

Even out by the docks, the sounds of the battle on land could be heard. The enforcers had gone out to join the fight, not as soldiers, but as opportunists. Fae magic was, naturally, a threat to human order, but that only made well-controlled fae a highly profitable commodity. The Vultures had never particularly cared who they captured and sold, of course, but these conflicts always provided good opportunity with minimal consequence. If it had been Travis's choice, he'd have nothing to do with any of it. But that wasn't always how life panned out. He leaned against the fencing around the docks, waiting for the others to return with their quarry. The short blade that hung from his belt was of cold iron, but only to be used as a last resort; he liked to tell himself his business here wasn't violence, per se. Besides, he'd be good as dead if he damaged the product. As Hillard - one of the big guys, practically armed to the teeth no matter the circumstance - returned, Travis eyed the prisoner he carried. Fae, unconscious, already in chains. The chains weren't iron, but were enchanted by the ship's sorcerer to keep magic weak. Easy to handle. "We got a good one this time," Hillard said, grinning with all twenty of his intact teeth. "Heard the others call him a prince." Travis shrugged, unimpressed, before Hillard added, "might bring in enough to pay off your indenture, if you do a good job." Travis straightened up a bit and nodded toward the ship. He followed Hillard up to the deck, then down the stairs leading down to the brig's hold. Once Travis unlocked the cell, he stood aside to let the big guy chain up their new prisoner. Even spending most of his work hours down here, Travis always hated this place. But after Hillard left, he remained, locking the cell and settling into a chair outside of it. After a few minutes longer, the prisoner spoke. Travis looked straight at him, though his dark eyes didn't do much to break the shadows he sat in.

8:14 AM

"Are you injured?" he asked, standing up. His voice was void of concern; if anything, he sounded bored. All business. @Sad Boi Micha

There was silence on the other end. Ash could understand English perfectly due to the fact he tended to spy through, watch as time pass. Though, he wonder how well verse these humans were to his own language. His head was pounding, and he could faintly remember what had happened. Ash remembered the fighting, how he had tried to help, after that, nothing. His blue eyes stared at Travis, and narrowed as he kept watch. His hands slowly moved to his face to find the mask was still there. It’s what he wore to hide his face, it was curved, sharp like a crows beak, and helped hide his more, unsettling features. Ash took a deep breath, looking at his captor before speaking. His nails sharp like talons, slowly tracing on the floor. “Where are we going,” Ash spoke in English, though Travis could hear him mutter a few words he didn’t understand. Abiols and Reshi being the ones that were spoken clearly. “Is this what you did with the others?” @Al the Killer

Travis awaited the answer to his question, but received none. Uncooperative, then. But the promise of his portion of the payout was worth dealing with him. He'd waited years to earn enough to be free of his contract, after all, and a fae prince would bring in some massive bids. He crossed his arms when the fae spoke at last. "You're not in a position to ask the questions here," he pointed out. His eyes narrowed as he heard the fae speak in another language. "English. I won't understand you otherwise." That, and he didn't want to risk giving this guy the chance to throw around any magic, no matter how weakened it would be. Better to hold a conversation then, even if it set the dynamics off from what he personally would have liked. The human targets had been bad enough in terms of guilt, but he'd take a few sleepless nights over the fear that came with dealing with fae. He kept his expression neutral, trying to ignore his racing heart as he approached the cell. "We're headed across the sea," he said vaguely. "Where you'll be sold off to the highest bidder, and your magic will be kept well under control and used to serve the mortal world, instead of undermining human progress." One hell of a non-answer. "I can't say where the others are; they aren't on this ship." There were a couple of different transport ships, each with their own crew. Better to keep dangerous creatures separated, after all.

9:31 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

“Undermining human progress?” This came out as a low growl. Ash couldn’t believe what he had heard from this, of all the lies. “And where did this narrative come from?” It was clear he was angry, being taken from his people, his home, and feeling his magic that coursed through his veins weaken. There was one thing known about the fae. Their magic was wild, it is what kept the creatures alive, as they seemed to be made from pure magic. It was the one reason Ash Petmaer was agitated. He made a slow move to stand, finding his balance, he stalked over to the bars of the cell, watching his captor carefully. @Al the Killer

"It's common knowledge," Travis said evenly, as though this was a perfectly normal conversation that neither party had any reason to be upset over. "Wild magic and human society can't coexist. That's the entire reason for this conflict, isn't it?" He watched the prisoner just as carefully, and his expression softened slightly. "Don't take it personally, though; really, this is business, nothing more. We all play our parts in it." Now that Ash was closer, Travis picked up a torch from the wall and held it closer to the bars of the cell in order to see better, to check if the fae had any obvious injuries. His own features were illuminated, even as the prince's were covered by the mask. Dark eyes, strawberry-blond hair that never managed to stay out of his eyes and - most notable - the old scar that crossed his right cheek. The scar twitched as he narrowed his eyes, squinting at the prisoner. "As I was asking, are you injured? It's my job to make sure you're in decent condition when we reach our destination."

@Sad Boi Micha

“No.” That is all he spoke. The prince sat back down leaning against the wall though, he continued to look beyond the bars. He flinched softly as the light danced over him, but Ash took the time to study Travis. “This won’t work,” Ash finally spoke up again after some time, his voice low and soft, “you need to realize this now before something happens.” It wasn’t a threat per se. However Ash was less then talkative, shutting up afterwords staring up at the ceiling. In Ash’s mind he could almost hear the crowd caw, weak as it be. Travis saw how he messed with his restraints. Ash hummed softly, speaking soft words in his native language. A lullaby he always known. @Al the Killer

Naturally, Travis wasn't sure exactly what the prisoner was doing at that moment. What he did know was that it was unnatural, and he needed to put a stop to it immediately. He looked up at the ceiling. The ship had begun to float from the dock, but that wouldn't mean much if the threat was here below deck. He scowled and put his free hand on the hilt of his short sword. He pulled it out just enough to show that the blade was iron. "If you don't stop, I will be forced to come in there." He placed the torch back on the wall. "And that is not something you want." He forced his hands and breathing to remain steady. To show any signs of fear or weakness in front of a creature like this would surely mean to welcome death with open arms. @Sad Boi Micha

“Aliso de rivo sulo grevian krilosa.” He let out a soft sigh before glancing at Travis, Ash’s eyes showed no anger, but sadness. He motioned to his cuffs and glare. “I can’t just pray in peace?” The lullaby was a simple one, many fae from Ash’s kingdom knew. A simple prayer for protection, and that’s why it was so comforting to Ash. “Do you know nothing of my kind?” A simple question, said with such venom, “our magic doesn’t come from our words, at least not all of it.” Ash adjusted his mask ever so slightly. Keeping his eye contact. He wanted to pull it off, it was tempting too, but it stayed firmly in place. @Al the Killer

Travis shrugged, sliding the sword back into its scabbard. He wouldn't let himself feel shamed by someone whose primary importance was being his ticket out of there - assuming everything went according to plan. He'd heard plenty of things about the fae, most of which were wildly contradictory, and wasn't about to trust someone with a vested interest in escaping as a primary source. "Yet a component of it does," he said, sticking to what he could say with confidence. "And I'm under strict instructions not to trust a word you say, particularly if I don't understand it." That much sounded ignorant, even to him, but orders were orders, and he had no intentions of messing this up. He stepped back from the cell. "What's your name, anyway? Or should I just call you 'Prisoner' for this entire trip?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Ash, Ash Petmaer of the Hiłœw kingdom. And your name?” There was a soft click heard before the mask fell around his neck. He huffed, blowing a strand of hair out of his face. Now Travis could see his full features. Ash looked human enough, fair skin, and black hair with blue eyes. However, there was a scar near his left eye, from the bottom down his to his cheek, the ears having a slight point to them, his eyes would change ever so often from that cold blue to a gentle gold, but would change again once Travis blink. At one point, he thought he saw feathers creeping up Ash’s wrist. The more Travis looked however at the prince, the more his features changed, until finally, all seem normal now. “It’s rude to stare you know.” He spoke soft in a whisper. Ash felt like he could breathe easier now. @Al the Killer

Travis recalled the stories he'd heard, warnings that names had power. They were always vague on exactly what fae could do with a person's true name, but the possibility was enough to stick with the Vultures' 'first names only' rule. "The people on this ship call me Travis," he said after a moment's hesitation. "Of England." After he said that part, it felt silly to mention, but Ash had given the name of his kingdom, so he might as well give his. In the shadows, he couldn't see much. Enough motion to know the fae was simply removing his mask, and the shift of colours from those eyes that seemed so much brighter than a human's. Though perhaps that bit was simply his imagination. There didn't seem to be any consistency to it, and he found himself entranced, even with the prisoner mostly hidden in the darkness. Then he was caught, and hoped the shadows hid the embarrassed reddening of his face as he looked away. "Not much else to look at down here," he mumbled in response, burying his hands in his pockets. The sound of footsteps approaching pulled his attention away. Food most likely, for himself and for the prisoner. He turned away from the cell to meet with their visitor. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash perked up hearing the sound of footsteps. His eyes narrowed and he stood waiting. Before stepping more into the shadows. The man who was walking down had only been on this ship for a few months. Still, being a new man on board, he was forced to head down below deck to take food down to Travis, and the fae creature who stood in the shadows. Samual didn’t envy Travis, just glad he didn’t have to watch the new prisoner.. “How’s the prisoner,” Samual spoke in a low voice, casting a quick glance to Ash. “Captain seems on edge with this one.” @Al the Killer

Travis shrugged as he took the food. He'd never been one for conversation with the crew, but he hadn't spent enough time around Samual to personally dislike him. Yet. Time would reveal whether he was as bad as the rest. He glanced back at Ash before responding. "Awake. Uninjured, responsive. Spirited, but restrained enough. I'll keep the captain updated if anything else arises." He nodded in appreciation for the food, setting his share down before he carried the rest over to Ash's cell. "Stand backup until the cell is locked again, Samual. You know the drill with high-risk cargo; food delivery is a two-person job." He turned the key in the lock and opened it barely a crack, just enough to fit the tray of food through as quickly as possible. @Sad Boi Micha

The torch flickered at the cell door opening, the shadows seemed to grow thicker. However, Ash couldn’t access his full strength of his powers, his hands turned clawed.. Feathers sprouting from his hands up his wrist. He could feel the shadows in his hands, malleable with his influence. Samual reached for his own weapon, no one on the ship was without one, and it was obvious he was nervous of the prince. But soon everything just seemed normal with a blink of a eye. “… Samual. Travis,” the words seem unnatural on the faes tongue, his voice now soft, however there was a hint of anger still. “Thank you.” Samual shuttered slightly at his name being called out from the faes mouth. Glancing at Travis. @Al the Killer

Travis didn't take his chances with being momentarily distracted by the shadows. Instead, he set the platter of food down, quickly withdrawing and relocking the cell. Quick. Almost painless. He still looked down at his hands, as though to make sure that all of his fingers had survived the encounter. He knew he was being ridiculous, but a life of crime had strange ways of putting a person on edge. He gave a stiff nod. "Can't have you starving before we even get there." He turned away from the cell, locking eyes with Samual. After a moment, he shrugged. "Not like he knew your full name. I think they need your full name before they can use it to do anything to you." God, he sounded so ignorant right now, didn't he? He reminded himself that he shouldn't care what the prisoner thought. It didn't help. Still, he picked up his food and sat back down. "But yeah, thanks. This is hungry work." Actually, it often ruined his appetite, and left him a skinny wreck of a man, but that was beside the point. @Sad Boi Micha

Samual nodded before quickly scurrying up to top deck. Ash actually chuckled softly, he realized they were afraid of him, and yet at the moment he couldn’t do anything. Maybe though, he could use it to his advantage. “Are you really sure about that,” his voice was soft as he started eating. His eyes stared down at his plate, his movements slow. “Stories are all you know correct?” He stopped now his eyes a blazing gold, staring at Travis. Seems Ash was calmer now, the anger subsiding. He had to keep his head straight, he was the crowned prince after all. But something in his eyes told Travis he wouldn’t cooperate. @Al the Killer

This fae was fucking with him. There was no other explanation. Travis narrowed his eyes, clearly unamused. Because he was right. He had the disadvantage in terms of knowledge, and it was obvious. He sat upright, stiff as he poked at his share of the food with the fork. The prisoner, naturally, had not been granted the same courtesy of silverware. "Shut up," he said, because it sounded better than pleading with Ash to stop with the mind games. "If you were going to do anything with it, you already would have tried. And I never claimed that was my true name in the first place. It makes sense for everyone on the ship to use an alias." And yet it was not, in fact, universal. Ash didn't need to know that. Travis kept an eye on the fae prince as he began to eat as well. @Sad Boi Micha

“If I may, have you simply thought I don’t want to do anything with it?” Ash pushed the food towards the bars. He had eaten a good portion, just enough that Ash was content. “True. I could’ve cursed you, maybe even killed you by now with your name in mind. But you’re right, I won’t do anything with it.” Ash snapped his fingers, a show that he couldn’t do anything. Not with those cuffs on them. There was no guarantee that he wasn’t doing this for show however. Ash knew how to just fuck around a little, enough to get into someone’s head. Footsteps were heard in the cell. Ash paced around humming softly, thinking. How long had the ships been moving? His fingers tapped the side of his leg as he felt the ship sway ever so slightly. The smell of salt was strong on the ship. “May I at least ask one thing?” @Al the Killer

Travis had not, in fact, considered it. Any reasonable being would be trying to escape, right? Not that it would do them much good now that they were out at sea. He shrugged, somewhat reassured by the reminder of those cuffs. He'd be relying heavily on them; he only hoped they actually worked and the 'sorcerer' wasn't just some grifter. He watched Ash carefully, though he couldn't see much in the darkness that only grew as night began to fall. There was nothing about this he could trust, but he stayed seated for now, still... 'enjoying' would have been too strong a word for this meal. "You may ask," he conceded. "I can't guarantee I can answer." @Sad Boi Micha

“Why fight in a war designed to lose?” The question was simple as the trapping of footsteps slowed from the cell. The darkness and shadows seemed to grow thicker the more night fell as though natural around the prince. “You’re just bringing chaos in the order of the world.” Faes. Though many knew how wild them seemed. The truth was that these creatures were tuned to nature and the balance of the worlds. A slight shift coming ups send a world toppling. And the fae creatures were keenly aware of it. It was the main reason their history was filled with violence. Ash has seen many wars. Seen the pendulum of order and chaos swing. Both couldn’t exist without the other. But as far prince, he was expected to walk that balance despite his attribute being pure darkness. This is why a war like this troubled him. Without the fae, the mortal world would be at the seems. Yet without mortals, the fae realm would grow unbalance. “We all need to find the balance.” His mother once told him, as a little bit sat upon her lap as she brushed his hair, “No matter the path you walk, there has to be balance.” @Al the Killer

Travis wouldn't have been surprised if the fae's words were all nonsense. Or if the human justifications for it were, for that matter. Such was the way of war, he guessed. He shrugged, setting aside his now-empty plate. "I'm not a fighter, and this isn't my war," he admitted with a shrug. "It's business, like I said. We're all just doing what we need to survive." He stood back up and approached the cell. "Are you done eating?" He'd have to call someone else down for the retrieval, of course. Couldn't take any chances. If Ash was finished, he'd walk back and call up the stairs for one of the guards. Preferably someone stronger and less jumpy than Samual, but he didn't say that out loud. @Sad Boi Micha

There was silence before Ash sighed and nodded. Though he made no move to being the plate to the cell door. “Yes. I’m finished.” Was all he spoke sitting back in the corner. He rested his head on the side of the ship. He could hear the winds pick up he could feel the rocking of the boat. It soothed him. But at the same time, a knot formed in his stomach. “Alisbo, grivâ whÿmê hÿméł.” If the cell was illuminated enough, Travis would see the worried expression on his face as Ash became silent again. Just listening to nature, though his connection weaker then usual. @Al the Killer

Travis nodded and called up. "Hey, can I get an enforcer down here?" There seemed to be some sort of completion above deck, but he couldn't quite make out what it was. The wind howled and creaked against the side of the ship, but he thought nothing of it. It was normal for everyone to be busy when it was windy at sea, to avoid getting blown off course. That must have been it. He shrugged. "Just leave the plate near the door. They must be busy preparing." He looked up at the ceiling. "Sounds like a storm's coming." @Sad Boi Micha

“More then a storm..” There was a click, his mask fully on his face now as he came to the door. He wouldn’t elaborate, Ash just needed to wait. Some time passed before a large man came down the stairs. The clouds had opened up, rain starting to pour down from them, lightning appearing among the sky before thunder cracked. “A huge one out there.” The man spoke, Kaeden, one of the enforcers who worked on this ship for years. He had seen his fair share of storms but nothing like this. He nodded at the orison of. He had some respect for the fae. Enough respect for something that could kill you with magic. Kaeden looked to Travis, before looking at the crown prince who stood by the bars. Holding the plate of food. @Al the Killer

"What's that supposed to mean?" Travis asked, though the prisoner didn't seem especially interested in explaining himself. He sighed and waited in silence as rain began to patter over their heads. He looked over at Kaeden as he arrived. "Sounds like it." He got out his ring of keys, careful with his balance as the ship rocked and groaned. Again, he only opened the door a crack to grab the plate as quickly as he could manage. But he found himself momentarily distracted as what little light they had glinted off the beginnings of a puddle of seawater leaking in from the outer edge of the cell. "Go check for damage to the ship," he advised Kaeden, despite his full awareness that he was not permitted to give orders here. @Sad Boi Micha

Kaeden nodded about to go and check. But that momentary distraction of Travis is what Ash took advantage of. His hands were quick, getting in the gap of the cell door. Kaeden was quick to react, pulling out the iron short sword and being quick to try and force Ash back. He wasn’t stupid to swing it at the fae. But Ash used the momentum of Kaedens movement to put pressure on the cuffs. If he broke the cuffs. Some of his magic would return. He needed to break the cuffs. Thunder boomed across the sky, the ship swayed harshly, Ash braced against the bars, trying to keep balance. “Don’t let him get through!” Kaeden shouted, just as a snap was heard, the iron sword moving through the chains. @Al the Killer

Travis dropped the plate immediately to try and help force Ash back. "Don't break his chair," he warned Kaeden. As the ship jerked sideways, he nearly lost his balance. Travis gritted his teeth, biting back the urge to hit his colleague with a smartass comment about not letting Ash through being exactly what he was trying to do. Then he realized they were fucked. The first sound to give it away was the snap of metal breaking. "How brittle are those things?" he demanded. Then the ship pitched sideways in the opposite direction, and the second sound of certain doom came: the thundering crack of splintering wood. The water began to rise, filling the bottom of the cell. There wasn't much time to think - they were going down. "Ugh! Fuck it!" He swung the cell door fully open and, without thinking about it, grabbed Ash's wrist. "Lifeboats now!" If Ash didn't avoid the grab or pull away, Travis would drag him along toward the stairs. @Sad Boi Micha

The wrist that Travis had grabbed was indeed Ash’s.. Only thin. With soft feathers peaking out of the skin. As he was pulled to the stairs, the flash of lightning illuminated his features. His masked seemed to have melted into Ash, his face now angular and sharp like a birds, golden eyes glowing deep in the dark. His entire body was now covered with black feathers, his hands sharp as talons. A thin, long tail, with a sharp hook trailed behind. As Travis dragged Ash out in the open, large crow like wings unfurled. Travis had heard of a Faes true form. That they only take on human forms to not scare off any “prey” or anyone foolish to make a deal. In truth. The true form was made purely of one’s magic, untamed and powerful, and this seemed to be the crowns prince. Ash looked up, letting the rain fall on his face. He now felt free. Felt the magic swirl around him. He shuddered, not because he was afraid, but because he was overjoyed that he felt his magic coming back. A screech came from his mouth, a cry that seemed to rival the thunder. @Al the Killer

Travis didn't have time to look back or question why Ash's arm had changed so drastically. Instead, he pulled him along, up the stairs and up to the ship's deck. Abovedeck was pure chaos, plain and simple. Those with more sailing experience were fighting to keep the ship afloat, while those who were more used the the Vultures' land operations sought ways to avoid the danger posed by its potential sinking. The water was up closer than it should have been, and the ship continued to pitch from side to side. They'd come dangerously close to a small island, and pieces of wood could already be seen caught on one of the sharp rocks that surrounded the shore. The screech caught the attention of several of the crew members, even with the scramble for survival. As they turned to look at them, Travis caught his breath. He needed to get the restraints back on Ash. Quickly. "Where's the sorcerer?" he demanded. A voice that sounded suspiciously like the sorcerer in question could be heard screaming in panic from the water below. So, that answered his question. "Fuck." He headed toward where the lifeboats were anyway. If only the two of them got out alive, he wouldn't even have to share the profits when he turned this fae in. But there was already a mad scramble for them, the press of bodies adding dangerous weight to one side of the already unstable watercraft. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash saw the chaos. How everyone was afraid of losing their life, and Ash felt pity. Then he felt a pull to the lifeboats. One look at the small wooden boats, Ash could tell that the boats wouldn’t fair well in a storm like this. His claws dug into the wood of the ship, a voice that Travis recognized as Ash, despite how whispy and rough it sounded, spoke in his head. “No.” He growled out. No one else could seem to hear it, “To risky.” @Al the Killer

Travis stumbled back as Ash refused to be moved. Now was not the time to be keeping him in one place, but maybe he had a point. Or would have, if the options weren't either certain death on the ship or probable death in a life boat. He turned his head, narrowing his eyes at the stubborn fae. "Well then, you got a better idea?" he asked. It was mostly meant as a snarky retort, but honestly? If there was a way out that didn't end in him drowning, he'd take it. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash couldn’t help but to grin before suddenly grabbing onto Travis’s wrist and forcing him close. The Fae prince wrapped his other arm around the man before suddenly flying high in the air. Black feathers flooded Travis vision as he felt the air whipping at his face. Rain poured on the man as Ash flew high among the dark storm clouds. In the dark he could feel every little movement, every burst of energy the lightning granted. He was impervious to the storm, but being that it was dark it helped. Ash couldn’t say that dropping the human was tempting. Yet, he remembered what Travis said. How he is just attempting to survive. How this wasn’t his war. “Grivane” Ash cursed to himself as his clawed grip grew tighter. His tail wrapping around both of their waists. He couldn’t drop him now. @Al the Killer

Travis immediately tensed up as he was grabbed. "What are you-?" Then they were above the ship, growing ever higher. Face paling, he clung to the fae for life. There was no reason he wouldn't be dropped to his death. Not after what he'd had a hand in. And honestly? He couldn't deny that, if he did die here, it would be well deserved. He wasn't sure what was more dizzying; that realization, or their height above the water. He gritted his teeth against the claws digging into him. Still better than drowning, if he had to pick one. For now, he closed his eyes so he could focus and not feel like he would be sick at any moment. "Can we maybe... go to land, somewhere?" he managed to suggest, his voice weakened as he temporarily forgot all about the money the fae prince would bring in. All that mattered was getting out of this alive. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash gave a nod before flying smoothly for some time, then his eyes spotted land, one with a forest. He began to make his descent, landing softly on the wet ground. He felt at home among the trees, his form slowly receding, looking human. Ash had long let Travis down, having stepped a few inches back silently studying the man. He could try and run, but Ash was tired, the form he had taken took a lot of magic, energy. It was used only when needed, or when the body was to injured to keep up a human appearance. The rain quietly dropped on the canopy, causing there to be soft pittering almost with the sound of creatures around the two. Ash took a deep breath and sigh. @Al the Killer

Travis stumbled a few steps once he was free, then let himself fall to his hands and knees, grateful to be touching ground once more. He caught his breath, the adrenaline of their escape rapidly wearing off and leaving a wake of exhaustion. Pathetic. At least he still had that sword at his side. Some semblance of control over something. He slowly stood back up, brushing his hands off on the legs of his trousers. The forest was unfamiliar, wherever it was. And it was the two of them, alone, entirely unprepared. He'd lived in cities and on ships his entire life. This sort of survival scenario was beyond him. "Some shelter would be nice, if we can find it," he suggested, since he could at least think of that much. "Building one would have been more of a 'before the storm' task, if I had to guess." His mind spun around in his mind. Where were they? How would he get this fae, now unbound, to their original destination now? He didn't voice any of it out loud. That would have been the same as begging for death. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash frowned looking around before whistling. It was sharp, commanding and after a moment; a large crow landed on his arm. He put the crow near his forehead and gunned softly. Speaking in his own language, low and soft. Finally the crow took flight. Ash motioned Travis to follow, though he wouldn’t force the human. The crow would wait for the fae prince. Keeping a watchful eye. “If you want shelter follow me,” Ash called out to Travis. Not stopping. Before softly muttering under his breath. “Or don’t. It doesn’t matter.” @Al the Killer

Travis wasn't used to feeling quite this useless. Still, he followed along with the fae, unsure of what to do. It was all rather disorienting, if he were to be honest. One thing was sure; if the price wanted him dead, he'd already be dead. Or at least still on that ship. Though that raised more questions, if anything. "Why are you helping me?" he asked after a while. "Even I wouldn't have helped me, in your situation." He hastily added, "I'm not complaining! Just... Confused." He looked up, watching the crow for a moment. Then he stumbled and decided it was best to keep his eyes ahead as he followed. @Sad Boi Micha

“You’re right. I could leave you for dead. But at the moment I won’t.” It wasn’t much of a answer, and seems he intended that. The crow soon came to a stop near the mouth of a cave, hopping down to the men’s feet, pecking at the ground. Ash let out a little chuckle. “Thank you my friend..” Without hesitation he walked into the cave, but t was damn from the rain, but it was shelter. Ash sat down now stretching out and allowing the crow to hop up on his shoulder. The crow cocked its head at Travis, staring intently into his eyes. Ash whispered something to the bird, and he ruffled out his feathers before flying off. Ash whistling a soft tune as a goodbye. @Al the Killer

"Exactly. Why?" Travis couldn't help but ask. But he continued to follow until they reached a cave. A damp, cold cave, but a hell of a lot better than nothing. He'd had worse, at least. He followed him in and sat on a relatively dry-ish patch of dirt. He watched Ash and the crow, unsure if it was an ordinary crow or another fae. He tried to at least maintain eye contact with the crow. It didn't work; he blinked and looked away, unsure of what to say. After a while, still quiet, Travis lay back on the ground, looking up towards the ceiling of the cave. "There's no way the others survived, huh?" he commented after a moment. More an observation than anything; the only trace of grief was a hollowness to his voice, and even he wasn't sure what that really meant. @Sad Boi Micha

“Maybe some. But we sure as hell wasn’t going to survive.” Ash became silent, that question of why lingering. Sure he could’ve dropped Travis in the water, let him drown, yet that wouldn’t have helped his sense of rage, the sadness he felt for the war. He couldn’t bring himself to say it out loud though. “I don’t think the other ships survived either.” He whispered this. He wondered who else was captured. Was it those he knew? His guards, friends, or even the ones who resided in his kingdom who he sore to protect. He was glad he was wearing the mask, it hid his true emotions. “The crow is found back to his murder. He said he would scout out.” @Al the Killer

Travis nodded. Self-preservation, perhaps, without thinking that the man he brought with him was an enemy. Was he? Where did he stand now, really? Where was he supposed to go from here? "I see." He closed his eyes, listening to the rain pattering overhead, the sounds of the storm raging outside. He'd caught what Ash had whispered, and he was probably right. "Are you worried about the other captured fae?" he asked. "We're you close to those you fought alongside?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Of course. They were residents of the Ćrœś territory. They.. were my subjects to protect, my guards that I trained with. Some won’t survive. Some will. It doesn’t make it any less.. painful.” Ash spoke softly. He couldn’t help but smile at the memories, but the tears welled in his eyes. “Remember I said it’s pointless war? I still fought in it though, to protect my home. My people.” He didn’t know why he was opening up to Travis, but it made him feel better. He watched the man while regaining his composure, but looked up hearing the rain slowly stop. The stars now were shining bright in the sky as the clouds rolled away. Ash got up quickly going to the entrance to see them smiling. @Al the Killer

"War usually is pointless," Travis admitted. When was the last time he'd actually had something worth fighting for? Back then, he'd been too young to be any good at fighting for anything at all. He opened his eyes halfway. "I can't claim not to be the monster we all must have seemed to you. Even if I wasn't on the field, killing, I know my involvement." What he'd needed to do to survive, as he'd said. Even if it meant the only companionship he had were responsible for him having lost everything years ago. He'd always planned for the day he'd be free to claim his life for himself again, but never anything beyond that. Maybe he'd never really believed he'd survive to see his freedom. He sighed and sat up, looking toward the entrance to the cave. Water still dripped down, but beyond the overhang, it had cleared up. While Ash stood there, looking out, Travis stood once more. He approached slowly, quietly. His hand slid toward the hilt of his sword... then dropped away. What was the point? "So, any clue where we are?" he asked instead. @Sad Boi Micha

“Alisos rivo lune” he muttered softly, it meant one this. Stars guide us, he spoke it as though it was something to protect Ash. Ash paused before finding what he looked for, a constellation that marked where he was. Ash pointed to it stepping back towards Travis. “We are north from the Yūłįg territory. The nearest fae kingdom. As for human towns.. I’ll have the crow scout ahead.” Ash knew his territory by the stars, he dropped his mask, letting it hang around his neck as he took a deep breath in. “So. What do you plan now?” Ash wasn’t foolish. He knew Travis wouldn’t easily let him go, not after everything. Besides, he still had the cuffs on. The chain that was broken released the spell, but the metal cuffs still were around his wrist. With that he was a target. @Al the Killer

Travis looked up at the stars as well, though they didn't tell him much. He'd spent most of his time on shore or below deck, so he'd never learned how to navigate by the stars. So he went by what he was told, which was... also not helpful, as he wasn't used to the fae kingdoms, either. "I'm not sure. I might stick around for a while longer, until we figure out where the nearest town is." His presence would prevent Ash from being captured by other traders; for the most part, they didn't capture fae who were already considered another person's 'property', at least not in front of that person. His swordsmanship would have to do the rest. "After that... well, I haven't had much chance at a life beyond what I've been doing. So who knows?" Once they found the nearest human city, he'd be quick to sell Ash off. Maybe gain his trust a bit first, so there'd be less of a fight. A knot formed in his stomach at the thought, but he told himself it was anxiety and not guilt. @Sad Boi Micha

“Alright. If that’s what you want.” Was all Ash would say, he stretched, and with a crack, dark black wings sprouted from his back stretching out. “I’ll be back before sunrise. You better get some rest.” Before Travis could protest, Ash was already in the sky. A feather falling to Travis feet, and Ash’s silhouette being smaller among the stars. Ash felt free in the air, laughing to himself, but he had another motive for flying away. He just wanted to be in the sky, close to the stars. @Al the Killer

Or maybe Ash would leave him here on his own. That was... fine. He'd figure out a way to survive, and it wasn't like Travis could blame him for wanting to flee his former captor. Even if he could, the guy was already gone. He looked down at the feather and shrugged. "Yeah, alright. Bye." He settled down on the ground. Still damp, but nothing he couldn't live with. Despite everything, exhaustion overtook him within minutes, pulling him into a restless sleep. @Sad Boi Micha

Soon it was morning. Travis woke up to light streaming in the cave; but also the sound of soft singing. Ash sat at the mouth of the cave. Around him were a murder of Crows, a total of five, just strutting about. Ash’s voice was soft and he sang in his native language, in front of him was food, with meat he was cooking. Travis could see one crow staring down at him, perched on a ledge just about him. It cocked its head studying the human with judgmental eyes. @Al the Killer

Travis opened his eyes slowly with the soft morning light. The singing was nice, a soft sound even if he understood none of it, and the smell of fresh food hit his nostrils. Despite the cold, rough surface of the cave floor, it wasn't a bad way to wake up altogether. Then he made eye contact with the unexpected crow and jumped, startled. "Fuck!" He caught his breath. "Was not expecting you. Uh... hi there?" What was he doing? Crows didn't speak English. He sat up and turned his face away from the judgmental gaze, instead looking over at Ash. He really hadn't expected him to return, in all honesty. But since they were both here, he might as well not be completely useless. "Morning, Ash," he greeted, still a bit groggy. "Is there anything I can help with?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash glanced back at Travis hearing him be startled. Just snapped his finger allowing the crow to come to him. “Sorry about him, he says he doesn’t trust you.” Ash spoke so softly, gently petting the head. It was clear he could communicate to them, to understand them. “And actually. Yes, there is suppose to be a stream near by. We need water. This one will guid you.” He nudge me he crow closest to him and it flew to Travis shoulder. Perching there staring at Ash as though sad. @Al the Killer

Travis glanced nervously at the crow. Damn animal instincts... but it wasn't like he'd do anything to hurt the bird. Still, he shifted uncomfortably under the scrutiny and jumped at the chance to distract himself with a task. "Yeah, I can do that." He patted the flask of water that hung at his belt, mostly empty at this point, but easily refillable. "We'll be back in a bit." Hesitantly, he reached over to pet one finger across the feathers atop the head of the crow on his shoulder. "Hi there..." He could just hope this wouldn't get him bitten. @Sad Boi Micha

The crow cawed softly before flying into the trees. It would pause, looking at Travis making sure he would follow before moving to another tree. It only took about ten minutes before Travis found the stream. Crystal clear water flowing from some rocks, the crow perched upon a small stone, staring into its reflection. The forest wasn’t quiet, guess could be heard chirping, insects buzzing. He could see little minnows in the stream, swimming about aimlessly, among the weeds were outtie flowers. It was beautiful simply. Seemingly untouched by humans so far. @Al the Killer

Travis kept his eyes up toward the tree canopy so he could follow the crow's movements. Once they arrived, he rubbed the back of his neck with one hand and looked around, nearly breathless at the sight of it. He'd spent most of his life in cities. This? This was new, like something out of a storybook. It teemed with life, but not in a way he was used to seeing. "Where are we?" he breathed, though he knew he wouldn't get an answer. Remembering his task, he knelt beside the water and uncapped the flask. It was a decent size, but with two people plus cooking, he'd probably have to refill it frequently. He held it in the water until excess started to bubble from top, indicating its fullness. "Alright." He screwed the cap back on and stood up. "Back to the cave?" @Sad Boi Micha

The crow was frozen in place. Watching the other side of the river, and finally for the first time, Travis realized the forest got eerily silent. There wasn’t a sound that any animal made, just the babbling of the stream. It was like. Moment before a predator struck. There was just silence, and the watchful eyes of something else in that clearing. The crow seemingly watching something. Then a glint of light reflecting from metal, the flying of black feathers in front of Travis face, the loud call of the crow who was with him. It happened fast, and at his feet was an arrow, broken in half. @Al the Killer

Travis looked around as he noticed just how quiet the woods had grown. It was almost as though he could hear his own heart thudding in his chest, the anticipation of something horrible about to happen. He'd never had much of an instinct for danger, so if even he could pick up on it, that was surely a bad sign. He placed his hand on the hilt of his sword, jumping back at the sudden blur of motion. For a moment, he stared down at the arrow. No time to think about it; he had to get out of there. "Fucking hell," he breathed. He picked up the halves of the arrow, uncertain as to why, then ran off, listening closely for any further signs of danger. "Let's get out of here," he told the crow. "And th-" Hadn't there been some warning about fae taking a simple 'thank you' as a contract? Did that extend to this crow? He wasn't sure. "I appreciate you saving me back there," he said instead. @Sad Boi Micha

The crow only flew not seeming to look back. It guided Travis a longer way back avoiding the danger of the forest. Until it stopped at the edge of the clearing. Travis could hear talking at the mouth of the cave. “What do you think you are doing helping a human,” the voice was female, soft but stern, Ash shifted his gaze to the fae in front of him. Her dark hair was pulled up into a tight braid, she had pale skin that had a swirling black tattoo creeping up her arm, Prim, a old friend of his, she had no reason to hide her fae like features, gently blue scales curving up her neck, speckling her cheek. Her eyes were bright yellow, and gentle pare of blue monarch like wings draped over her shoulder. Beside her was a fae with dark oak like skin, she looked more human, but still had pointed ears, raging green eyes, and small black horns peeking out of her cut short, curly hair. While Prim had a bow and quiver of arrows besides her, the other fae had a sword on her waist. Ash let out a sigh, he looked at Prim, and her companion Ivy. They both worked under the fae kingdom of the forest as guards, he knew they would find him and Travis. “I wish for safe passage. I shall keep a eye on the human and keep war from spreading further.” “War has already spread further Ash! You were captured! Queen Daliah had no idea if you were even alive!” Prim burst out, she looked close to saying more, however a hand on her shoulder from Ivy stopped her. “We were worried Ash, all of us.” “It’s not that we don’t trust you, prince Ash, but if you were to fall then your kingdom wouldn’t have no royal to lead them.” Ivy spoke. Looking back at the fire that was starting to only be embers at this point. “And the others in this forests won’t take to kindly to a human being here.” @Al the Killer

Travis followed the crow back to the cave. As he heard the voices, he stopped outside, stepping to the side so he could stay out of sight as he listened. No point in interrupting, after all, and he couldn't help but be curious as to what was being discussed. Most of the finer points of the fae realm's politics flew right over his head, but he understood enough to get the general point. At the last part, he looked down at the two halves of the broken arrow in his hand. Clearly, he was an unwanted visitor here. Especially given his past line of work. After a moment's hesitation, he walked toward the cave's entrance, where he'd be visible to anyone who bothered to look. "Uh... hi," he greeted awkwardly. "I got the water." He held up the halves of the arrow. "Almost got killed, too. Does this look familiar to anyone?" He took a hesitant step inside, trying not to turn his back to anyone as he approached Ash. The most trustworthy one there, in his eyes, and he still wasn't sure the crow prince wouldn't murder him in his sleep. "I don't mean to interrupt though, so if you have more to say, just pretend like I'm not here." @Sad Boi Micha

“Good to see you made it back safely.” The crow that was with Travis soon landed into Ash’s lap before becoming a wooden charm. Indeed seems the crow that was sent wasn’t a true crow. The rest of the murder seemed to not have noticed this, just content to be in the trees watching the fae. Even the judgmental crow that stuck near Ash didn’t seem bothered. Prim and Ivy gave each other a look. Obviously they weren’t happy Travis was here, or sitting close to prince Ash. Ash cleared his throat making them sit up straighter. “Either way, I am to make sure Travis gets back safe, so please. If you would call off the hunters Prim.” Prim was silent before grabbing a whistle made from wood, to Travis it made no sound, but Ash seemed happy. “Thank you, now, Travis this is Prim and Ivy. They are old friends of mine, and head guards of this forest.” @Al the Killer

Travis sat down and let the others do the talking for now. So these fae had been the reason for the arrow, in a way. Good to know. He narrowed his eyes slightly to let the two of them know that he didn't particularly trust them, either. Which he found perfectly understandable, considering the whole attempted murder thing. "Right... back safe," he murmured, considering the fact that he didn't really have anywhere to go, aside from this cave. He shrugged it off for now and raised a hand to Prim and Ivy in greeting. "I'd say nice to meet you but, well..." He looked down at the broken arrow. "Can't say we're off to a great start." There was his ~~abrasive~~ winning personality showing through. No wonder he'd never gotten along with the other Vultures. He handed the container of water over to Ash. "So, did I miss anything interesting while I was being shot at?" @Sad Boi Micha

Prim and Ivy didn’t offer their own hand. Just say still, before looking at each other. They whispered softly, a language Ash knew, but Travis didn’t. Ash frowned at them before turning to Travis, “I’m sorry for the trouble you received,” he spoke quietly. “They aren’t fond of humans here. And they have a dedication to preserve the forest here.” He sounded genuine. He at least didn’t know the full extent that Travis was hunted. @Al the Killer

So it seemed 'not a great start' was an understatement. Travis had to admit, there was a certain poetic justice to the whole scenario. The hunter becoming the hunted. He'd call it a fall from grace, but he'd started from a pretty low point to begin with. "I've noticed," he commented back. "Can't say I blame them for it, but getting shot at still sucks. I'm glad the crow you sent with me stopped the arrow." He lowered his voice. "What are they saying?" @Sad Boi Micha

“I’m not foolish enough to send you defenseless, the crow that followed was a familiar of mine,” Ash took the charm out again, fidgeting with it silently as he listened to the two. He debated on telling Travis the truth. He knew how he truly shouldn’t trust a human, one who had all the intentions of selling him. Yet in the back of his mind, there was a nagging feeling. “They are debating on if they should report this or not.” He whispered. “Already the council of the far court knows of a human in this forest, if a hunt was called.” There was still information he was leaving out. Like how if it was reported Travis was the one who was responsible for Ash, then the Faes would call for his execution. Instead he spoke up to Prim and Ivy. “Travis helped me off the ship you know.” @Al the Killer

"A hunt?" Travis cast another nervous glance toward the two other fae in the cave. "So that arrow wasn't already a hunt? That sounds... bad. For me, I mean." Another understatement. He was sure Ash's determination to help him survive would only go so far. But it existed, nonetheless. And here he was, planning to repay him by selling him to the highest bidder. A pang of guilt settled in his stomach as he looked down at the cave's dirt floor. When the time came, would he be able to do it? Not logistically, just... could he bring himself to betray someone who'd already done so much for him? It went so far beyond the morally ambiguous into the territory of 'undeniably fucked up'. Then came Ash's next words, and he gawked at him. So it seemed the fae could lie after all. Or at least bend the truth beyond recognition. "I... tried my best," he said, sticking to the truth, himself. "I'll admit, for selfish reasons, because I didn't want to die." The only reason he'd done anything ever. "But now that the rest of the men on that ship are dead, I don't owe them loyalty anymore. That much, I can tell you with certainty. This was never my war to begin with." @Sad Boi Micha

The two eyed Travis, before eyeing Ash. They were weighing their trust in their friend, and a human they just met. “Alright. If that’s the case..” Prim got up sighing softly. She helped Ivy up to her feet. “We will let this go right now. But Ash, please be more careful.” Ash nodded before getting up. He made a motion for Travis to stay where he sat, while he walked the two out of the cave and to the clearing edge. @Al the Killer

Travis stopped talking, tense in the silence and exchanged glances that followed. He breathed out a sigh of relief once they agreed to let it go for now. Getting mixed up with the fae in any capacity had been a mistake, but at least he could get off relatively unscathed for now. But he could only imagine what they would do if anything happened to Travis. Once the three left, he did not stay seated. Too much nervous energy remained. He stood, pacing around the cave but not leaving it. He wasn't sure how long it would take for everyone to get the message about not hunting him anymore. Every decision he'd ever made came crumbling down on him in an avalanche of regrets. "'Join us and we won't kill you', they said," he muttered to himself, remembering the night the Vultures had killed his father. It seemed so long ago. "'It's your best shot of survival', they said." How many times now had he nearly died because of his involvement with them? He looked at the cave entrance, thinking about Ash. The fae didn't trust him, because he shouldn't. And yet... "Damn it," he breathed. If there were any left from the other ships, how long until they came looking for him? For the escaped prisoner? His hand instinctively went to the sword at his side, taking some comfort in the fact that he still had that, at least. @Sad Boi Micha

And even if they did come after them, he saw what Ash had done, and the prince would definitely not let them take him back. The crow that had watched Travis dropped down and hopped beside him. Watching him. Ash finally stalked back. Looking tired, he sat down, back against the wall after grabbing some food. “They are gone. So we bought some time.” To Ash. Some time wasn’t a long time. He glanced at Travis, his gaze could be felt even from the mask he wore. (edited)

10:29 AM

@Al the Killer

As Ash returned, Travis stopped his pacing and quickly took his hand off the hilt of his sword. Because looking like he was about to draw an iron blade in a fae prince was not the impression he wanted to give. Anymore. "Some time? Sounds ominous," he commented. "Anyway, you were making breakfast, right? And I got the water you wanted. Anything else I can help with?" He wasn't much of a cook, to be honest. They'd always had a designated chef among the Vultures, and he'd joined at a young age. But he was sure he could figure it out, for the sake of being at least a bit useful. @Sad Boi Micha

“No. Not right now.” There was a paused before Ash reached into his pockets before pulling something out. “I do need you to keep this on you at all times.” It was a necklace, one made from twine; a freshly carved symbol in a flat wooden circle. One that was of a feather. Travis knew a gift from the fae wasn’t anything simple. Ash reached out. Watching him carefully. @Al the Killer

Travis eyed the necklace cautiously, not taking it at first. Surely, there had to be a reason for it, but he couldn't be sure of what. He didn't have reason not to trust Ash at this point, but he still wanted to know why. But not before lightening the mood, just a bit, so he wouldn't get the wrong idea about his question. He batted his eyelashes at him. "Aw, for me? I expected a more romantic proposal, but how could I possibly say no?" he joked, before leaning forward and taking the necklace carefully. "Seriously though, what's this for?" @Sad Boi Micha

Even with the mask, Travis could see the pale skin of the prince turn red, but Ash didn’t seem to react otherwise. “It’s imbued with my magic. Allows for you to have at least have a fair advantage to other fae.” It was the truth. But what went unspoken was that he couldn’t use it against Ash himself, “I’ve been working on it ever since last night.” It was the main reason Ash had left e for that night. To be able to work in peace on something to help his newfound companion, even if he didn’t even want to save him at first. Ash got up, crouching by the fire to finish his cooking, silent now. @Al the Killer

Travis smiled a bit at the small bit of colour that appeared to grace Ash's face for once. Or what little he could see of it, at least. Amusing, that he'd had that effect. Almost cute... no, he wouldn't let himself think that. They had enough to worry about as it was. He instead nodded in understanding as Ash explained. Not that he knew how to use any sort of magic, but he'd probably figure it out sooner or later. Otherwise it would have been a useless trinket. He put it on, letting the wooden pendant fall onto his chest. "That... actually sounds very helpful. I appreciate it." Probably useless against the prince, but helpful if any other fae gave him trouble. "And I promise I'll only use it in defense." Because one way or another, his fae-hunting days would be over after this ordeal. Way more trouble than it was worth. For now, he stayed aside and let Ash get to work on his task. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash seemed to just nod at such a promise. He could tell Travis meant it, but he was still weary of such a thing, after all he was no stranger to a humans greed. His hands were shaky at first, mainly due to him dwelling on such a comment that made him blush, but they soon stilled. For a prince, Ash seemed to know his way around a camp fire, making a meal out of what little they had. Seems in making such a charm he had went hunting. @Al the Killer

Travis chuckled, noting how the prince still seemed just a bit affected by his joke. It had been an innocent enough comment, in his eyes, but to each their own. He watched him first, then the fire, not wanting to make things weird. The silence didn't bother him much; he was used to it. What did weigh on his mind was curiosity about the mysterious fae who had saved him time and time again. "Hey, Ash?" he asked after a while. "Or... wait, should it be Your Highness? Guess it's a bit late for that... anyway, why the mask, if you don't mind me asking?" He gestured toward the mask in question. "Even when it's just us. I mean, I've seen your face before, doesn't really look like you have much need to hide it." It was, overall, a decent face, but he decided that he should hold back on anything that could be construed as flirting. For the sake of Ash's sanity. @Sad Boi Micha

“Ash is fine,” he finally spoke after some time. He had to think about it, in truth any reason he would give would be askew, for it was mainly a comforting thing. He let out a soft sigh. “It’s important to me, something my late father gave to me. Not only that, it does hide some of my more.. fae like features. Every fae has them, some are easier to hide then others. And well, the ones that can hide it easier, you don’t even know that they are in the human realm,” the implications of that were messy, after all, if some could easily hide it then how many “humans” were fae? “It helps me hide among mortals. It can be charmed by glamour, allowing anyone to see a regular human if I so wish. A medium is better manipulated then my physical form After all. Only other faes can see what I truly am. Or, it hides my emotions, and when fighting in a war, intimidates, for no one will know what power I hold.” The answer was simple, but at the same time, he had broken all of his own rules. He showed Travis his face, his true form, his magic. He had only done that once in the past, something he cringe at when thinking about it. @Al the Killer

Travis leaned forward as he listened. Honestly, it was all rather fascinating to listen to, even if this knowledge would make it impossible for his life to go back to the way it had been before. Maybe that was for the best. "Hm... so basically, anyone can be fae? It's not always obvious, after all?" he asked. Back when the Vultures had taken up their whole fae-capturing business, he'd been taught that someone could always tell. He shouldn't have been surprised that that, as with so many things that had been told in service of the war, had been a lie. It was a war, after all; nobody was blameless, and everyone with any stake in it was willing to say whatever they needed to bet their side up in arms. "I'll admit, I don't know a lot about any of this." Understatement of the century. "But I'm open to learning more." Except that could have been misconstrued as wanting to learn things that could be used against the enemy. "Only what you're willing to tell me. But no offense... you haven't exactly done a good job of hiding among humans. You got captured, after all." @Sad Boi Micha

“Because I got captured in the battle, I don’t live among mortals.. No offense.” Ash handed Travis some food. Indeed he had hunted, squirrel and what seemed to be small quail. As well as some fruit. “I wasn’t in disguise. I was trying to go for my troop that had went missing. But, I got ambushed.” Ash sighed before smothering the fire, as it was not needed and would attract more attention. “I’m surprised though that you of all people would want to learn more.” Ash was eyeing Travis as Though trying too know his true intention. @Al the Killer

Even as he took the food, Travis's first instinct was to be offended by Ash's last comment. Beyond a indignant look in the fae's general direction, he gave no voice to it. Instead, he settled down and explained himself. "Before the crew that captured you got involved in the war, they - or, we, I guess - were no more than a gang of common thieves, kidnappers, and murderers," he admitted, looking down at his food. "Back when they killed my father, I bought my life from them in the form of debt." He'd been young at the time, too young to understand what he was getting into. He didn't say it aloud, for fear it would sound like an excuse. "So my best shot at continuing to survive was to pay off that debt in service to them. Now that the ship's gone down, I'm likely to be assumed either a traitor or dead, so no matter how you look at it, I can't go back." He looked up from his food, catching Ash in a steady gaze. There was an unspoken defiance to it, or at least an attempt to make himself look less vulnerable, less afraid, in spite of his next confession. "Now, instead, I'm lost here with you, and alive only because of your mercy and the willingness of the other fae to listen to you. My best chance at keeping both of those factors is to understand what I'm getting into here." He picked up a piece of fruit. "So I'd say my curiosity is both consistent and warranted," he concluded, then popped the fruit into his mouth. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash gave a long, slow nod, as he took a bite of quail. There was a moment where he was silent only thinking of Travis’s answer. “Alright. I’ll agree.” He found himself saying that so easily. He didn’t know why, but he felt like he should trust him. @Al the Killer

Travis was ready to argue more, but stopped in his tracks. Oh. Well, that was easy. Now he just had to sort through the questions running around in his mind, figure out what was most pressing and least likely to break what trust the prince seemed to have in him. "So is there just the one kingdom for all fae? I just assumed you'd have a more complicated system, maybe more variety... Are the fae who live among humans still considered part of your kingdom, or are they more like outsiders?" he asked.

4:24 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

“There is one main council. Who help many different kingdoms. After all, fae comes from around the world, with their own legends, and stories.” Ash paused giving a soft smile, “My kingdom was one of many. When my mother will pass down the title onto me, I shall be apart of the council, as well as taking care of my home.” He paused at the question of fae living among humans. It was a complicated history with it. He sighed softly. “At first they were considered outsiders, long ago, but they are still our people. We help them as much as they help us.” He put the flames out, not that there were much anyways, just glowing embers. Ash stood, before looking back at Travis. “Let’s head to the next village, there is someone who will help us.” @Al the Killer

Travis ate while he listened, finishing off his share of the quail and fruit. It was slightly better than what was available at sea, presumably because it was fresh. Once the explanation was over and Ash stood up, he did the same, taking a moment to stretch. Town sounded a bit more familiar than a cave in the middle of nowhere, even if he didn't know how far they'd be from the nearest one. He'd naturally trust the guy with the wings to act as navigator. "Right behind you," he assured him, walking toward the entrance of the cave. "Who is this 'someone'?" He looked ahead, considering for a moment. "Will it be safe for us to go into town? A fae and a human? Even with your ability to blend in among humans, it still sounds risky." @Sad Boi Micha

“It’s no dangerous then a human in a fae kingdom. I won’t look like a fae, only you and others of my kind will be able to see beyond the glamour.” He paused and looked back at Ash, “Don’t freak out either, with my magic, you won’t be affect by fae magic. You’ll be able to see beyong their glamour, and any illusionary magic they use.” Ash started to walk. As though he knew his way, and the forest. As though he grew up there. But soon Travis could hear the bustling of a town up ahead.

6:12 PM

@Al the Killer

Travis followed after Ash. "Please, when have I ever 'freaked out' when you used magic?" he asked, even though he had very much been freaked out the moment Ash had picked him up and started flying away from the ship. But he'd had plenty of reasons to feel that way, beyond the magic itself. Still, he held up a finger. "That was rhetorical. Don't answer it." The sounds of human chatter, horses, and the occasional carriage were unmistakable. He walked a bit faster until he was right beside Ash, then slightly ahead. He didn't wander off too far, not wanting to be separated. "So, have you been around this area before, or did you just do some really good scouting last night?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash just chuckled softly. He didn’t say anything else about it. The forest was alive now with birds, and little critters scurrying all about. Though Travis noticed most avoided the fae, all except the crows. “I’ve been here multiple times on trips with my family. So I know the area well. Though. I did scout. Better to be prepared.” Entering the town it seemed busy. Despite a fae wearing a literal crow mask. No one seemed to notice nor care just nodding at the two as they traveled. Ash led Travis to a bar. It didn’t even seemed opened, the door staying fixed shut. No movements from the inside. @Al the Killer

Travis stuck close to Ash as they reached the town. He kept an eye on their surroundings, but nothing seemed particularly unusual. Just a normal town, and not even as dangerous as the ones he was used to. He returned the varied nods of acknowledgement as he walked in silence, until they reached the bar. "I get why I'd drive you to drink, but I don't think now's the time for it," he joked, then knocked on the door. "See? They're closed." Still, they had to be here for a reason. He walked over to the nearest window to peek inside. "Seriously though, who are we meeting?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash was silent. He placed his hand on the door knob and Travis could see a faint spark from the prince’s hand, the door knob turned and opened. No one seemed to be paying any attention to this. “A friend of mine. One who can help us to safety.” After all. The other humans will be looking for them. Ash stepped into the bar. Looking back to Travis. The bar was dark inside. But seemed more spacious then the small appearance outside. Cleaner as well. He could hear a faint hum in the air. Before it ceased. @Al the Killer

"Aside from the most vague answer possible?" Travis asked. As he heard the click of the door knob, he looked back over his shoulder toward the door. Ah, magical lockpicking. That made sense. He stepped away from the window and followed Ash inside, closing the door behind. "Hello?" he called, stepping away from Ash to wander the spacious darkness inside. "Ash's fri- ouch!" He tripped over a bar stool, stumbling away from it. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash reached out a hand, quickly grabbing at Travis shoulder sighing softly. “Watch where you’re going okay?” Before he had the time to speak up, the door that seemed to lead to the kitchen swung open. A woman came barreling out wielding a small broom. She was wearing a plain black dress with a white apron on, the smell of food in the kitchen. “We are close get ou-.” She was stopped mid sentence, and froze seeing Ash. Her eyes wide, with excitement or terror, Travis didn’t know. This woman looked human enough. Her curly brown hair framing her freckled face. @Al the Killer

Travis flinched away from the broom, much to his own embarrassment. In the awkward silence that followed her seeing Ash, Travis recovered and cleared his throat. He looked between the two of them before speaking to Ash, his voice barely above a whisper. "You did say friend, right?" He lifted a hand to wave nervously to the woman before speaking. "Sorry to intrude, Ash just mentioned you'd be helpful with getting to safety. We're kind of... on the run right now. War and all." He realized all too late that he probably should have left the talking to the fae. Oops. Taking a step back, he fell silent for now. @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes. Friend. Kathleen you can put the broom down.” Ash chuckled. He found all this amusing somewhat, though he looked tired. Kathleen frowned and stepped close studying Ash. Before sighing. “Take a seat. Rest.” She looked up the stairs yelling, “Vince! Prince Petmaer is here!” Travis noticed Ash flinch at this. Before slumping down in a seat muttering to himself. Kathleen motioned for Travis to also sit, though he noticed her eying his necklace. “Ash when did you decide to get engaged to a human?” Ash almost fell out of the bar stool before just shaking his head. Kathleen looked from Travis to Ash with a eyebrow raised. Travis then noticed her wedding ring. Could feel the magic from it. It wasn’t as strong as Ash’s but. Different. @Al the Killer

Travis watched Ash's strange reaction. He seemed to have some history with Kathleen, to say the least. It was just too soon to say which one. Before he could decide whether to ask, the question about engagement was asked. He covered the necklace with one hand, a bit self-conscious, then held the other out as though to show off a ring. He had none, but oh well. "Just this morning. It was very spontaneous, super romantic," he joked, grinning widely as he tried not to laugh at Ash's reaction. He leaned back in his seat, resting an elbow against the bar counter. "Your ring... Is it magic, by any chance?" he asked. "I'm new to all this, so I could be wrong, but it seems like it could be." @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes. It’s like yours, holding my husbands magic so I can see into the fae world.” She spoke. Seemingly relaxing knowing that Ash trusted his own magic to Travis. From upstairs, down came a man, for a moment he looked human, until the ring caused the glamour to dissipate showing him the fae. Vince was a tall man, taller then Ash, and he could see golden scales running up his dark skin around his neck, up to his cheek, his eyes a striking green with a black slit in them much like a cats, his hair was in locs, a thin serpentine like tail that had golden scales was wrapped around his waist. And was he holding a toddler? “Kathleen, sweetie, seems the ruckus woke up Anthony. Can you take him?” Kathleen smiled and scooped the small child in her arms, Vince turned to Ash and Travis, a smile on his face but his eyes showed almost a weary look. “Ash. I haven’t seen you since your last travel up to the Naïrē Kingdom. Who’s this?” @Al the Killer

Travis turned and looked up at the man who had come downstairs. Did all of the fae have to be impossibly gorgeous? Maybe not as much as A- nope, he was not allowing himself to think that. He waved hello and smiled, trying to look as casual as possible despite the ever-awkward situation. "Nice to meet you both. Or three. I'm Travis. Not Ash's husband or fiance," he introduced himself. But, since he was enjoying Ash's reactions a bit too well, he leaned toward Vince and lowered his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "...yet." He sat upright once more. "I'll let him explain the rest, though." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash gave out a long sigh. He could already feel the headache coming on with this. Vince looked at him and sighed going behind the bar grabbing a bottle of whiskey. He slid a glass over to Ash before looking at Travis, as though to ask if he will take one. “I was captured when I was trying to get my men to safety. Their mage, the spell was strong, although I suspect that there is foul play on that.” Ash took a sip and paused before continuing. “When I awoke. I found Travis with me. When a storm broke he helped me escaped and well, I wanted to repay him. Right now. We don’t know what to do. I want to go back home. But..” Ash trailed off and shook his head. He didn’t know what to do with Travis. He could bring him back to the fae kingdom. But would it be safe? Better? @Al the Killer

Travis nodded and held out a hand for a glass of whiskey as well. It seemed wrong to just sit around in a bar and not accept a drink when offered, after all. He listened to Ash's explanation, even though it was all stuff he knew anyway. Once Ash trailed off, he pitched in to help out. "He has his kingdom to return to, but I don't actually have anywhere to go," he admitted. "It isn't safe for him to stay among humans with the war going on, and it isn't safe for me to go much of anywhere, since I've already been hunted by other fae once today." He took the glass of whiskey once it was poured and knocked it back all at once. The familiar burn was nice. Didn't help clear his mind, but helped fog it up just right to not overthink so much. @Sad Boi Micha

“Ah I guess you ran into the Naïrē guard huh.” Vince chuckled softly his tail swishing. “Yes, Prim and Ivy don’t trust humans. But all of Naïrē doesn’t. You just ended up getting lucky that they are Ash’s friends.” “That’s why it isn’t safe for us to go to Naïrē.” Ash finished. He slid the empty cup to his friend and shook his head simply. “I need to see the state of my kingdom. I need to help them. Not fail them.” Vince sighed helping up a hand. Stopping Ash from saying anything else. Vince looked to Kathleen and nodded at him softly. She frowned and went to Travis. “Travis, do you mind helping me out real quick? Let’s give them some space real quick.” @Al the Killer

Vince's attitude toward it caught Travis off-guard. Oh, they tried to shoot you? Classic Naïrē, they've always been quirky like that. His eyebrows rose up and he simply nodded in acknowledgement, setting the glass down. Part of him wanted to stick around, to listen to more of the conversation. But he'd learned the hard way long ago how to pick up on the fact that he was not wanted in the room at the moment. It wasn't even subtle this time. So instead, he nodded at Kathleen and stood up. "Sure thing." He looked around, sniffed the air. Still the smell of fresh food cooking. "Back this way, right? In the kitchen?" He walked ahead without waiting for an answer. @Sad Boi Micha

Kathleen shut the door and sighed. The back of the bar was equipped with a kitchen, one attached not only to the bar but the main house it seemed. A corner of it was filled with toys and a blankets. She sat down Anthony among the blankets. “I’m sorry about him,” Kathleen finally spoke up as she started to cook. Before motioning go a cutting board with Vegetables for Travis. “Vince is use to those things whereas it might be whiplash for you and I.” She chuckled at that. Not in a way to demean it. But, she knew how it felt. “It isn’t easy. And it won’t get easier. Just have to work through it.” @Al the Killer

At least Kathleen seemed nice enough. Genuinely welcoming, even. Travis shrugged and walked over to the cutting board. This much, at least, he could do without even injuring himself. He started to chop vegetables while they spoke. "Such is life," he commented. "Never does get easier. And it's fine, I assumed fae would have different attitudes toward some things than humans. Different experiences and all." He kept his eyes on the cutting board and the knife, not wanting to slip up. "You sound like you've got some bad experiences with Naïrē - am I pronouncing that right? - too. They're really that way about humans in general, I'm guessing?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes. It wasn’t this bad before the war, humans and the Naïrē didn’t get along before. The war seemed to have made tensions worse.” The war. How long had it been going on? She shook her head. Stirring the pot before putting in minced garlic and cut up potatoes. “I don’t have bad experiences. One good thing came of it, and that was Vince and Anthony.” As though hearing his name, Anthony crawled over to Kathleen, tugging on her skirt. He looked just like Vince almost. Dark skin, curly black hair. His eyes blue like Kathleen’s. “So what about you. How did someone stuck in the middle of the war, working with a hunter, get stuck with a fae.”

12:38 PM

@Al the Killer

Travis set the knife aside once he was finished chopping the vegetables. Domestic work felt strange at this point, but in a way that he welcomed. "How did you know-?" He stopped short and looked down at the iron sword at his side. Even in its scabbard, he supposed it was easy enough to guess. Guns were more popular among those who didn't hunt fae, nowadays. "It's a long story, but pretty much as Ash tells it. We captured him. I was tasked with making sure he made it to our destination unharmed - or undamaged, as the boss put it - then the storm hit. We helped each other escape, but nobody else from the ship was as lucky." He looked away from her, feeling his face heat up with what had to be shame at this point. He'd been an idiot, getting caught up in a war like that. "I'm not proud of the things I've done. And now I owe Ash my life." @Sad Boi Micha

“You shouldn’t carry that if you travel to any kingdom.” This time she spoke gently. “We all did things we weren’t proud of. Trust me.” She sighed and took off her apron before seemingly trying to figure out what next to say. Finally she turned to Travis. “How long has Ash been using magic. Constantly after your escape?” @Al the Killer

He rested his hand on the sword. "Maybe not. It just feels... odd to walk around unarmed, after all this time," he admitted, a bit embarrassed to do so. God, he sounded like a child with a favourite security blanket. "But yeah, I guess I'll have to leave behind any iron weapons, depending on where we go." He stopped, considered the question. It was hard to tell. Sometimes, the magic seemed more subtle than others, but he knew Ash hadn't exactly shied away from using it. "Fairly often, at least. Why?" @Sad Boi Micha

She sighed and shook her head before opening a cabinet, then taking out a blue vial. “Make sure he drinks this and gets rest, or else he’ll be in worse condition.” Kathleen poured some soup into three bowls before looking at Travis, “have y’all eaten yet? We have enough potato soup for everyone.” She seemed worried. Though wouldn’t say why. Didn’t know how to say why. She glanced at the door leading to the bar. @Al the Killer

Travis took the vial and held it up to the light, looking at the liquid within. Such inspection told him absolutely nothing, of course, but it was worth checking out nonetheless. Something to restore magic, perhaps? He lowered it and gave a nod of acknowledgment. "He seems fine now, but I'd rather keep it that way, so I'll be sure to give it to him," he promised. "We ate before coming here, but I wouldn't say no to more." He grinned. He'd long grown used to not being sure when his next meal would be, so he knew better than to turn down the offer of one. "Thanks." His smile faded. "Everything alright? Is there more going on I should know about?" He turned his head toward the kitchen door, listening in case he could pick up any snippets of conversation between Ash and Vince. @Sad Boi Micha

“If to much magic is used, then the fae would be force into a hibernation state. It happened when Vince built the tavern.” She pushed past the doors. Careful with the bowls. Vince was sitting near Ash, patting his back softly. Shaking his head. Whatever they talked about seemed to have taken a toll on Ash, his mask in the bar. Vince gave a hard pat. Rousing Ash to look at the kitchen. He smiled seeing Travis and Kathleen. She set the bowls down before taking her seat beside Vince. @Al the Killer

Travis nodded in understanding before following her out of the kitchen. "Do you want help carrying any of those?" he offered. Once the bowls were set down, he sat beside Ash. But as great as food sounded after their trip to town, he had higher priorities. He took the vial Kathleen had given him and held it out to Ash. "Drink this," he said. "Kathleen said it'll help you feel better." He frowned. "And stop exhausting yourself like that. It's my job to be a dumbass and, quite frankly, I don't like your attempts to give me competition in that area." Which was as close as he'd come to admitting he was worried about him. (edited)

Ash stared at Travis, he seemed a bit surprised at how much Travis cared. He grabbed the bottle and nodded. Sipping on it. Travis heard Vince laugh, a deep laugh that was genuine. This caused Ash to shoot a glare, but Vince just shrugged it off. Picking up his child and sitting him on his lap as he ate. “Vince agreed to get us some help back to my kingdom.” Ash finally spoke after downing the drink finally. @Al the Killer

Travis pulled his own bowl of stew closer to himself to start eating while Ash took the potion. A good meal, and he'd be decently rested enough, too. But he paused once Ash mentioned returning to his kingdom. It sounded great for the fae prince but, well... He frowned slightly. "Your kingdom? You're sure that's safe?" he asked. "I mean, for you of course it is, I'm just... obviously an outsider there? Would I be considered a prisoner? I mean turnabout's fair play, but that doesn't mean I'd like it..." He trailed off, then sighed. He'd have to come to terms with the fact that he couldn't betray the fae who'd done so much for him already. "I've got no reason not to trust you. Maybe I just worry too much." @Sad Boi Micha

“You won’t be a prisoner. I won’t allow that,” Ash seemed. Stern with that. He wasn’t going to let someone be a prisoner, not without reason. “They will welcome you.” Vince took another bite of soup and sighed before getting up. “I hope you don’t mind air travel. It will take us about a day. So I’ll go in town and grab supplies.” Kathleen smiled and sat down her toddler before brushing her hands against her dress. She mumbled something about packing. Clearly intended on coming with. @Al the Killer

Despite everything, Travis couldn't help but smile a bit at that reassurance. He couldn't help but feel like Ash was... Honest. It was a quality he so rarely encountered, and had so rarely allowed himself to express, that he'd nearly forgotten it was a real thing. "That's good to hear." His smile soon faded. "I'm not exactly used to air travel. I'll tolerate it if I have to, so long as I don't get dropped to my death. Which I guess means now's a good time for me to start being less annoying and more useful?" He watched Kathleen out of the corner of his eye. "You're coming, too? What about the kid?" @Sad Boi Micha

“He’ll come with us. It’s a special thing to be invited to the fae kingdom.” Vince smiled and picked up Anthony. Setting the little one on his broad shoulders. “It’s good to visit the fae kingdom every now and again.” Vince left, Kathleen watching him with a soft smile. Before heading on upstairs. This left Ash and Travis alone in the closed bar. @Al the Killer

Air travel didn't exactly sound safe for children, but neither was travel by ship, and people did that all the time. So Travis assumed they knew what they were doing and simply nodded instead of commenting. He watched the three of them head upstairs, allowing silence to sink in for a few moment. "So... they seem like nice people," he commented. Which meant every instinct was yelling at him to run in the opposite direction. He'd forgotten long ago how to deal with kindness. But there wasn't anywhere to run to. "I get the feeling this won't be as simple as 'just go to the fae kingdom and everything will be alright', will it?" @Sad Boi Micha

“No,” it was spoke so plainly. It never is going to be easy and Ash knew it was better to not sugar coat it. Seems the elixir that Travis had given him was working, although slowly. Slowly his hand reached for the mask, before hesitating. That’s when Ash turned in his seat. Looking at Travis. His eyes a swirling black and fold. His sleeves slightly up, revealing his feathers along his wrists. The mask that hid who he was, or at least help him suppress it forgotten. “Are you scared?” His voice swooped to a soft whisper. As though he wasn’t asking the question to Travis. But to himself. @Al the Killer

Travis could at least appreciate the honesty. "Thought so," he said. Having finished his meal, he stood up, picking up his empty bowl and reaching for Ash's. "Are you finished with that? And you don't have to hesitate with your mask either. I've seen your face before, remember?" Although he'd been about to take care of the dishes, he paused, staying in place. The gesture seemed to have a bit more meaning than the simple removal of a mask. Especially when paired with that question. Travis's eyebrows lifted slightly as he regarded Ash, then nodded. "All the time," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper, himself. "But I've learned to live with it." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash nodded. Taking his hand away dropping it to his side. He wanted to reach out to Travis but he was afraid. Not of him. But Travis is right to be weary of going to the fae kingdom after, well everything. “You’re braver then most. Many wouldn’t confess that.” There was a pause, “even I wouldn’t confess.” It was a soft tone. Ash knew what he would do. And he was ashamed. He slowly got off the seat and stretched. It was time to get to work before Vince got back. @Al the Killer

Travis looked over at him thoughtfully. He'd gotten the impression that something was worrying Ash, and that response only served to confirm his suspicions. He started toward the kitchen and paused, looking back over his shoulder at Ash. "If you are, it can help to talk about it," he said, voice still soft. "I mean, if there's someone you can tell. And if we're going to be facing something even you're afraid of, I think I have the right to know." Especially as a human surrounded by fae, with no weapons or magic of his own, save for the protective charm Ash had given him. @Sad Boi Micha

“I’m worried about the war. How it is going to affect everything. I know most won’t be welcoming of you but,” there was a small trailing off, like he was lost in what to say. “It will be safer then you trying to hide from the Vultures on your own.” Ash motioned for Travis to follow him as he headed upstairs. He reached one of the bedrooms that the upstairs of the bar had, and went in. It seemed like a plain guest bedroom, but it still had a touch of home. Like someone regularly comes here. A painting of the rising sun on the mountain side, a painting of the moon, and the many constellations. The sheets were fresh. But Ash ignored all of it. Instead going to one of the wardrobes and opening. What should’ve been empty, was full with cloths. Many of them plain. When Ash straightened up he handed Travis a towel, and a change of clothes. “There is a bath second door to the left, if these clothes don’t fit you then I’ll ask Vince for a spare.” @Al the Killer

"Low bar," Travis commented as Ash talked about being safer than hiding on his own. Hell, he wouldn't survive on his own even if he wasn't being pursued. Still, he followed Ash upstairs and into the bedroom. It seemed the prince was a frequent enough guest here, if there were clothes in the closet already. He watched him, trying to keep away the sense of impending dread. "Your bedroom?" he guessed. "Once again, very forward of you." He winked, but took the towel and clothes. "I stink that bad, huh?" Now self-conscious, he turned his head to the side, sniffing at his own shoulder. Nothing he could pick up on, but he was used to himself. Regardless, a bath sounded luxurious. He gave a nod of acknowledgement, then left the room, following the directions to the bathroom. Once inside, he set the bundle down and stripped his clothes off. He turned the water on and waited for it to run warm, drawing a warm bath. Once it was properly full, he turned it off and sank down into the tub with a sigh. Now this was paradise. @Sad Boi Micha

The bath was nice and warm. And with everything that had happened, it was welcoming. There was a small end table with all the soaps one would even need. Ash stayed in the bedroom. Looking for another change of clothes, and a towel for himself. His mask was placed on a vanity table, forgotten as he looked out the window towards the mountains. In his mind. He was planning out the trip. What would come from it. How long it would be. He considered himself lucky that he knew where he was. But now he had new worries. Worries about what would happen to Travis. To his kingdom. He wasn’t worried about himself but. Ash shook his head hard. No. This isn’t the way things would go. He slump against the bed, a small jab of pain ached in his body. He was finally coming off of adrenaline. Able to be calm. @Al the Killer

Travis spent longer in the bath than he'd planned. He couldn't help it; it was the most relaxed he'd been in a long while, and there was no knowing how much stress the future may hold. He would enjoy it while he could. Even after he'd washed himself, he stayed for a moment longer. Only when the water had cooled to lukewarm did he move to leave the tub. He drained the water, then patted himself dry with the towel. Freshly washed, his hair was a lot softer, and its strawberry blond colour more vibrant than before. Not to mention he smelled a lot better than he had on the ship. He smiled, already feeling better as he pulled the clothes on. They were a bit loose, proper in length but made for someone less slim in figure. They would do, though. Once he got his boots back on, he gathered everything up and walked back to the room. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash seemed to enjoy loose fitting clothes. The clothes were plain, but soft and finely made. As he entered the room, he saw Ash sitting in the floor. His head leaning against the bed closed. His breathing steady. A pile of clean clothes sat beside him with a towel as well. But the prince was asleep. @Al the Killer

Travis stopped in the doorway, looking over at Ash. So he did sleep sometimes. Despite everything, he looked peaceful. Almost... beautiful. He pushed that thought away and set his folded clothes aside, draping the towel over the door of one of the wardrobes to dry. The floor didn't exactly seem comfortable, so he walked over to Ash, then hesitated. Would he be able to pick him up without disturbing his sleep? Well, the only way to know was to try. Very carefully, he reached down to pick him up and set him down on the bed. If he succeeded, he'd get in bed next to him and get some rest of his own, facing away. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash didn’t even seem to stir. Surprisingly. The prince was lighter then what he would seem. The tavern was quiet as Travis laid down facing away. Surprisingly. Rest came in the form of a few houses. A knock on the door breaking the silence. @Al the Killer

At some point, Travis had managed to drift off to sleep. He wasn't sure how long it lasted, but it was soon interrupted by the sound of knocking. He groaned softly and opened his eyes, hesitant to move. But he had to at least check. He got out of bed and picked his sword up in case it proved unwelcome company. Without a word, he walked over to the door and opened it just a crack to peek through and see who was knocking. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash wasn’t on the other side of the bed. The towel and clothes that he had laid out previously was gone. As Travis got closer to the door he could hear humming. It was Vince humming softly waiting for the door to open. He raised his hand again to open it. But stopped to speak. “Travis you awake? It’s time to get going.” How long has he been asleep? The curtains were drawn back, letting in some moon light. A full moon. @Al the Killer

Travis glanced over at the empty bed, and a faint feeling of panic threatened to tug at his insides. No, it was... probably fine. He might have just stepped out of the room to take care of laundry. As he turned toward the door and saw Vince standing there, he opened it further. "I'm awake, but I haven't seen Ash around. Is he downstairs already?" He looked toward the window, wondering if it was the same night a few hours later, or if he'd slept through an entire day. The latter seemed unlikely; he wasn't a very heavy sleeper, normally. @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes, it’s time to go while it’s night out.” Vince smiled at Travis. “We will be waiting outside.” And with that, he left downstairs. When Travis was ready and followed, he found the town in a dead sleep. Nothing seemed to stir, and the full moon casted light on the town. He saw Kathleen with Anthony in her arms asleep. Ash was with her. Stretching. His mask was down around his neck, he has changed into fresh clothing, his eyes shown a speckling gold, and black feathered wings were out stretched. He smiled at Travis. “Glad to see you to join us.” @Al the Killer

Travis got ready, not wanting to hold the others up any more than he needed to. A moment later, he rushed down the stairs in clean clothing. As promised, he left the iron sword behind. It left him with an uneasy feeling to do so, too vulnerable to live. He only hoped Ash would appreciate the amount of trust he was putting in the fae right now. He caught his breath outside, taking in the fresh air and the peaceful silence. Of course it was silent. Everyone else was sleeping, and he found himself almost wishing he was, too. Then Ash smiled at him, and he couldn't help but return the expression. Except his was a bit more nervous. "Wouldn't miss it for the world." He kept his voice low, eyes flitting about like anyone else might be around, listening in. "So we're flying, yeah?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes. But I won’t be carrying you this time, don’t worry.” Ash smiled as Vince motioned for everyone to start walking. It was a short walk, out of town, into the tree lines, Ash and Kathleen slowed, allowing Vince to disappear into the trees. There was the silent hum of insects, the rustling of trees. Ash’s wings were folded close to his back, a soft hum escaping his throat. From the distance, Travis could see a flash of golden light. The trees started to taper off, leading the three into the clearing. And from there, Travis could see Vince, or what stood in the large man’s place. A golden scaled dragon stood, the familiar green eyes showed a gentle kindness. Vince’s fae form seemed large enough to carry two people. @Al the Killer

Travis followed Vince. "I wasn't worried," he admitted. He had assumed Ash would be carrying him again, but hadn't been worried. "On second thought, probably for the best that you won't tire yourself out. Did you get enough sleep-?" He looked ahead to see that Vince had vanished, but nobody seemed worried about it. The flash of golden light, then the sight of a dragon, explained enough. A dragon. He should've guessed, considering his appearance even in a more human form, but in his defense, nobody meets a man and assumes the guy's a dragon. "So do we just... get on your back?" He looked to Kathleen for guidance, and followed her lead. @Sad Boi Micha

Kathleen, who seemed obviously use to this, climbed up effortlessly and held out her hand helping Travis on. “It’s more comfortable then it looks. The scales were warm, rigid, but Kathleen seemed comfortable. Though she seemed to hold on to Travis as Vince started to move. Getting up and stretching. Ash flew off first. Vince soon followed, the air was chilled whipping around the two, and yet the scales provided some warmth. @Al the Killer

Travis took her hand to climb up onto dragon-Vince's back. He shifted slightly until he was comfortable, apologizing quietly to Vince the whole time. Once he was settled in, he set a hand down to rest it on the warm scales. For some reason, he'd always imagined dragons would be cold-blooded. He tensed a bit as they took off, but soon relaxed, sure that he was secure enough. If Kathleen wasn't worried, he figured he shouldn't be either. He even chanced a glance down at the ground, but immediately regretted it, and simply closed his eyes instead. "Alright, this isn't so bad," he said, starting to convince himself. @Sad Boi Micha

Kathleen had let go of Travis now. Her hair was flying in the wind as she relaxed keeping her child close. She kept her eyes up on the stars of the night. Every once in a while Ash would fly near, make sure Travis and Kathleen were okay. Before flying ahead making sure the path was clear. And soon enough. He saw a shimmering barrier obscuring what was inside, he felt magic crackle through him, and seems Kathleen felt it to by her shiver. And she could t help but to look down below. @Al the Killer

Travis would occasionally glance over at Ash and give him a thumb up to let him know he was hanging in there. As they passed through the barrier, he shuddered at the odd feeling that shot through his body. Not painful, but profoundly uncomfortable. He glanced over at Kathleen, noting her reaction. "So I take it you never get used to that?" he guessed. His gaze followed hers, his eyes widening as he looked down at the realm of the fae for the first time. "Oh. Wow," he breathed. @Sad Boi Micha

The kingdom below was filled with floating lights, the area around was dense forests, yet there was some clearings, houses made of stone and wood could be seen hidden, at first small clusters, then there was one large tree, a clearing around it. This is where most of the floating lights were. Ash laughed, suddenly flying faster, disappearing in trees, clouds. Soon coming up and landing on Vince’s back. He was grinning from ear to ear, the excitement clear. He was home. He didn’t stay by Travis long. Soon flying in front of Vince guiding him where to land. @Al the Killer

Travis couldn't help but smile as he watched Ash flying around, his excitement contagious. For just a moment, he let himself feel like everything was going to be alright. Maybe they really would be safe here. The floating lights gave the entire place a magical feel, but not in the terrifying way he'd expected. It was, to put it simply, beautiful. Then the magic of the moment was broken and his stomach sank, not because of any feeling of dread, but because they were flying down to land and he was not used to this. The breath fled from his body as he gripped Vince tightly, not wanting to think about how far he had to fall if he did fall off. @Sad Boi Micha \

Vince was trying to be gentle in his decent, but being a large, heavy dragon didn’t seem to help. The landing wasn’t graceful, almost screeching into a halt more like. But they were landed safely. Kathleen slid off before helping Travis slide off as well, Ash landed, wings stretching out wide before folding in on himself disappearing, a few black feathers falling to his feet. Kathleen watched as the dragon grew smaller, before finally Vince was back to his semi human form. He stretched, a few bones cracking as though they had been stuck in the same position for a long time. “Welcome to the Gêlǐcæ kingdom.” Ash said quietly to Travis, close to him. His black hair messy from flying. @Al the Killer

Travis held on for a second longer, taking a moment to catch his breath and make sure he was still alive. Alive enough to feel the residual fear, at least. With a sigh of relief, he accepted Kathleen's help, glad to have his feet on solid ground once more. The flight hadn't been that bad. It was landing that he would never get used to. He walked over to Ash's side, looking away from Vince in case he preferred a bit of privacy for the transformation. "It's beautiful," he commented, glancing over at Ash. He was silent for a moment that almost felt like a Moment, before speaking up again. "Your hair's all fucked up by the way." What a close call. Aware his hair was probably also a mess, he smoothed it out with his fingers as he turned in a circle, looking all around him. A woodland, but one thriving with civilization as well. True coexistence with nature, in a way humans had never quite figured out. He smiled at the thought. "So, where to now?" he asked. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash ran his hands through his hair before smiling again. He didn’t answer but start walking, followed by Vince and Kathleen. “To the palace, my home.” Ash spoke softly, pointing to the bigger tree that was in the middle of the clearing. The lights seemed to guide their way as Ash hummed. In the distance Travis could feel the hum of magic, stronger as they got closer to voices. Houses circled the tree, the roads now cobblestones, however nature was still well alive there, animals scampering, vines creeping up on walls producing flowers, in fact there was a town square that lead off to the castle, filled with stalls and people, vines hung those floating lights cross each stall, music playing softly. It was busy for it being night, but slowly things crawled to a halt as Travis could feel eyes slowly draw to the group. @Al the Killer

Travis looked up at the large tree as he followed close behind Ash. He listened to Ash's humming, but found himself distracted by the magic around them. He had expected it, of course - it came with the whole fae territory - but it was still unfamiliar, when he was only used to being around one or two at a time, in the human world. Then there was more noise, the life of a bustling town square, lovely music and... And it was dying down, and people were staring at them and of fuck nope Travis did not like this. He'd always taken solace in the ability to blend in in human cities, to be more or less invisible. Being the centre of attention brought plenty of memories to mind, none of them good. He fell into step behind Ash. Unfortunately, he was both too tall and too obviously human to actually hide behind him. "Does this happen every time you visit?" he whispered to Kathleen. @Sad Boi Micha

“It’s not just us.” She whispered softly. And indeed it wasn’t. Everyone was staring at Ash, who kept walking. But Travis could tell he was still nervous, after all for all Ash knew, everyone thought he was captured, or worse. Either way they had thought he wasn’t going to come back. Thats when the guards came. They had saw Vince flying, and had mobilized, they paused, staring to Ash, then Travis and Kathleen. This caused Vince to stand in front of them. @Al the Killer

That was... good news, probably. Travis kept walking with the others until the guards came. He waved nervously, in part to show that he, at least, was totally unarmed and not a threat at all. Granted, that didn't keep him from staying just behind Ash. "We're guests of the prince," he attempted to assure them, resting a hand on the shoulder of the prince in question. He vaguely remembered the rumour he'd heard, that time passed differently in the faelands than in the human world and, unsure o whether it was even true, leaned in to whisper to Ash. "Hey... how long exactly have you been gone?" @Sad Boi Micha

The guards tensed up hands going to their weapons once Travis touched Ash. Whispers in fae language. Ash sighed at this before glancing to Travis. “Maybe a few weeks? Time moves faster here than it does in the human realm.” Ash whispered back. Before stepping forward to the guards. This caused them to stand at attention. There seemed to be a back and forth, the guards obviously seemed worried, Vince seemed to relax however as they backed off once more. Ash turned to Travis, a small smile on his face, forced it seemed. @Al the Killer

Travis immediately moved his hand away. Oops. At least the answer explained a few things. A week was long enough for his return to be a surprise, but not so long that a replacement would have been found. Which meant they'd stumbled into an awkward situation, but not a worst-case scenario. He smiled back at Ash, attempting to reassure him despite his own nervousness. Still, it was clear that the guards didn't trust him. Understandable. "I'm just gonna let you do the talking, and I'll be right here, not making any sudden movements," he whispered to Ash, and then proceeded to stand as still and as silent as he possibly could. @Sad Boi Micha

He gave Travis a soft smile, seemingly more comfortable now. He stepped forward and started to speak, the captain of the guard standing to attention, though looking like he was not trusting of this. Kathleen moved beside Travis listening carefully, she couldn’t translate in full, but she tried her best to help Travis. “He’s telling them we are guest, no part of what is going on.” She whispered softly. Vince still stood in front of them, waiting. The captain of the guard seemed to try and argue. Before Ash turned around and gently grabbed Travis by the arm pulling him forward. He said something to the guard, before motioning towards the ring that was on the necklace he was wearing. This caused the captain to go silent before sighing. @Al the Killer

Travis nodded, grateful for the rough translation to help ease his confusion. He'd have to learn the local language, if he was going to stay here with Ash. Still, he stayed right where he was, opting not to disturb their interaction until Ash fully cleared things up for him. Or that was his plan. He was instead pulled toward Ash by the arm. He stumbled, but quickly found his footing and gave him a puzzled look. It had been unexpected, but he could piece enough together from the gesture toward the ring. Toward that piece of the prince's magic. It seemed effective enough. He leaned in to whisper to Ash. "So what, you're introducing me as your consort now?" he joked, offering a wink. "Could at least ask me first." @Sad Boi Micha

“It signify I trust you, and there shall be no hostility for you.” Ash whispered back. But Travis couldn’t ignore the small blush that quickly colored his face. But it disappeared as quickly as it came. And Ash started to walk forward, the guards standing to the side to allow them to pass. “Stick close with me, please.”

2:07 PM

@Al the Killer

Travis grinned and tried not to laugh as he noticed Ash's apparent embarrassment. But there were more serious matters to focus on. He stuck close to the prince, following him as he walked onward. Teasing him more could wait. "You got it, boss," he agreed, falling into step beside him. "Will I have the chance to learn the local language? I'm not sure it's a good idea for me to be lost, clueless, and dependent on you the entire time I'm here." @Sad Boi Micha

“You will don’t worry, let’s just, get through this right now and I’ll tech you.” Ash smiled. He had let go of his arm, and Vince and Kathleen fell behind him. “Right now let’s just focus on getting to the castle.” Vince mumbled, glancing to the guards following them. Ash sighed and shook his head. The castle was a great oak tree, taller than the rest in the forest, magic stumbles carved into the bark. Travis made it past the stone walls that lead to the main courtyard. Even though it was night, blue flowers were in full bloom, giving off a faint light. Two guards stood at the entrance of the oak tree, and seeing Ash gave a bow as the group passed. Inside, the interior was bigger, the floating lights lining the ceiling, and books clicking on the floor that seemed to be marble. Warmth could be felt al around, and the castle was buzzing, many different fae going back and forth, seems their arrival caused quite a stir. Finally, a set of doors was where they stopped at, they seemed heavy, large with different carvings in the wood. Ash let out a nervous sigh before turning to Travis. “This door leads to the throne room, I have some business to sort out. Do you want to come with me or I can have someone escort you to get settled.” Ash looked at Travis, was he worried? Ash knew the toll magic, and being thrusted into a new world could take on Travis. @Al the Killer

Travis smiled back, but felt the absence of Ash's hand on his arm more profoundly than he cared to admit. He followed along anyway, staring in awe at the signs of life and magic that seemed to surround them whatever they met. It was a lot to take in, but wonderful at the same time. Of all the times he'd dreamed of escaping his old life, he never could have imagined this. Yet a part of him still worried this might be some sort of trap. But Ash seemed just as nervous, if not more, than he was. "Not like I have anything to unpack," he said with a shrug. "If it's all the same to you, I'll go with you." He grinned. "Cause you're not getting rid of me that easy, buddy." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash nodded, smiling a bit. Before taking a deep breath and pushed through the doors. The doors lead to a throne room. One that was big, candles flickered with bluish flames as a throne sat in the middle. The oak wood it was made with having gold accents, and Ash soon bowed before it. Before the occupant of the throne. A tall, thin woman, with raven black hair pulled into a braid. A thin gold crown weaving itself like branches with flowers that never wilted adorning it, an emerald green dress dark against her pale skin. Her eyes were a deep blue, looking at Ash, Travis couldn’t tell any emotion. @Al the Killer

Travis followed him through the doors, looking ahead at the woman. The queen, he assumed. At least, there seemed to him to be some resemblance between her and Ash. The dark hair on pale skin, the general air of power around them. Regardless, she didn't seem like someone whose bad side he hoped to be on, so he followed Ash's cue, bowing as well. This was fine, probably. He looked up at her but avoided direct eye contact, trying to figure out what sort of reaction she might be having. He couldn't read her expression or body language, so he joined her in looking at Ash. Better to let him do the talking still, until he got some idea of what was going through her mind. @Sad Boi Micha

“Hěvæ, mother. I’ve returned home,” Ash looked up at her now, his dark eyes to her blue. Slowly he straightened up. She got up, walking to Ash. “Hěvæ, Ash.” Her voice, at first commanding, caused Ash to look down at the ground before looking back at her. When she next spoke, it was softer as she pulled her son into her arms. “I’m glad you’re back. I’m glad you made it safe. But what in the hells were you thinking.” Ash sighed, before hugging her tight. Soon they both let go and she looked at Vince and Kathleen nodding, before her steely gaze turned to Travis. She snapped her fingers, the guards in the room leaving. “And what is he doing here?” She went back to her throne, sitting. Looking back at Ash, her face cold. “He helped me and—“ Ash started but under the gaze of he went silent. “Dont lie to me, you know I can tell.” She was sharp, before sighing mumbling on her own language. “You even gave him a ring imbued with magic. Ash. You can’t just do so to anyone, especially after the army saw you get captured.” “I trust him, and I trust both had to help each other, or I wouldn’t even be here.” Ash stepped closer, before sighing running a hand through his hair. “Mother, both you and father trusted me to be king of our realm one day. You have to start trusting my decisions.” There was a silence, the queen staring at Ash, before looking to Travis. Her face was still, like stone, but he could see it in her eyes, distrust, worry, anger, but mainly a tiredness. As though she had been awake all this time. She was staring at him, at the ring before sighing. Shaking her head coming to a decision. “Fine, I shall trust you Ash. He and your friends can stay for as long as they may. However, should anything come from this that puts our kingdom in danger, I’m afraid I’ll have to close off the realm to them.” Ash nodded, giving another bow of his head for respect. He knew this was the best he was going to get for the time being. Knowing that the war is still going on

4:28 PM

, that things have not calmed yet. @Al the Killer

Hěvæ. Travis assumed it meant hello, but would keep it in mind and ask later just in case. Maybe practice the pronunciation, since it sounded different from any English words he knew. He stayed where he was, unshrinking under the queen's gaze. It was no look he hadn't been given before, and under equally high stakes at that. He couldn't exactly blame her for being cautious. Her son had gone missing, after all. It meant a lot to lose family - he knew that firsthand. Still, his hand went to the ring anyway, as though that would help him. "I wouldn't harm your son, Your Majesty," he said, attempting to help ease her worries a bit. "Or anyone else here. I've had enough of fighting to last myself a lifetime, I think." He managed a nervous smile. "He knows what he's doing, at least." After all, it wasn't like he could use the ring's magic against Ash, even if he didn't owe the guy his life - that much had already been made obvious from the beginning. The best he could do was just follow the flow now. @Sad Boi Micha

There was a silence that followed her. Her eyes staring at Travis, her mouth closed in a thin frown. “We shall see how far you come.” “Ash, the troops would love to see you tomorrow.” She then sat back down, calmer. “For now. You and your friends deserve rest.” “Ah, of course.” Ash nodded and lead them back out before letting out a breath even he didn’t know he was holding. Travis noticed the curious stares as Ash lead them through the castle halls. Words had already spread fast it seemed, but their eyes would quickly turn away. The tour was small, main points were the upper floors which held the bedrooms. Vince and Kathleen getting one across the hall, while Travis had a room next to Ash that seemed to connect. “Just in case you need something.” Ash explained, in truth. Ash liked being close to Travis, knowing he could trust him now. He also guided them through the main halls to the dining hall, ballroom and training ground. A few guards seemed to linger around the training grounds. Giving Ash a bow as they passed. As Ash walked he would steal glances back at Travis. Trying to gauge if everything was okay. Or simply too much. @Al the Killer

But goddamn she was intimidating. Travis had not come prepared to meet Ash's parents even though, in hindsight, he should have been. He swallowed nervously, but nodded in agreement to her vaguely ominous statement. It was a relief when they less the throne room, even with the stares they were getting. When they reached their rooms, he took a moment to walk back and forth through the doorway between his and Ash's rooms. He pretended his delight was mere amusement at its existence, but in truth, he was relieved to have him close by. The one bit of familiarity that made this whole new world a little easier to deal with. He grinned at Ash. "Anything at all, huh?" He winked. "I knew you liked me deep down." He followed him through the rest of the tour, until it seemed they'd seen just about everything. Then again, he could have been wrong about that. Either way, he took a moment to speak up. "Is there anything I should be doing in my time here?" he asked. "Anything to help around the castle, get settled in, make myself useful...?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Come with me tomorrow, to the training grounds.” It didn’t take long for Ash to answer. “Right now, there is nothing to do but get use to everything. And have me teach you. Of course, I don’t know what all will happen. Or be possible.” Ash had promised to teach Travis what he could, and he intended on keeping it. He seemed confident in it. Not as worried as he was before. “The harder part is over at the moment. My mother can be, protective at best. As long as things calm down, things will go smoother. For now, you don’t have to be useful, just learn.” Ash couldn’t help but to give Travis a smile. They were back in their rooms. Kathleen and Vince already in theirs. @Al the Killer

Travis nodded, unsure when he'd become so ready to agree to everything Ash asked of him. Probably after the second or third time the prince had saved his life. It wasn't like it was an unreasonable request, given the circumstances, and he was the one who stood to benefit most. The future was uncertain, but at least he could trust him through all of this. "Then I'll learn." He smiled back without thinking about it. "Not too sure the training grounds are the best place to learn the language here, but we'll see what tomorrow brings." He paced around the room as he spoke, getting a better look at everything than the cursory glance he'd gotten during their tour. It was more comfortable than he was used to, but not as overwhelming as he would have expected from a palace. Either the decorators had opted for simple elegance, or he was more prepared for life here than he'd thought he would be. @Sad Boi Micha

“You can learn a lot from different places. From the kitchen, to court, to the battlefield. There isn’t just the language you’ll learn, but the magic I’ve imbued in the ring.” Ash sat down in a chair by the bed. The room was simple, with a double bed, pale green sheets and covers on it, deep oak wood making up a small bookcase and desk. It was mainly, empty. As though waiting for someone to live here. “Besides. I have one more favor to ask for you.” He leaned forward, eyes flashing golden for a moment. His mind tugged at all of his thoughts, trying to figure out a simple way to ask this. “I need a guard, someone I can trust. I’m not asking now, you still have much to learn, and I’m not demanding, it’s an offer you can turn down.” There was a pause before he looked away. Shaking his head. “Travis, there were many things that could’ve happened. Sometimes I thought you were going to betray me at first, I don’t know why I saved you after everything. But I’m glad I did.” @Al the Killer

Magic. Travis had known he'd be able to access it, of course, but even then he hadn't imagined he would be learning to use it. At the mention of a favour, though, he stopped his pacing. This seemed serious, and he'd have to listen, to give Ash his full attention. He walked over to the bed and sat down on the edge of it, careful not to disturb the covers. His eyes widened slightly in surprise as he spoke of needing a guard. Further when he mentioned thinking Travis had been planning to betray him. "Ash..." The words sat heavy in his stomach. How could he have even considered it? "There's something you should know, first." He looked down, his heart racing. Fear and something unnamable. "I... at first, I was going to betray you at the first human settlement we came across. I owed a blood debt, and I thought selling you out was the only way I could be free of it. But after everything you did for me, I knew I couldn't do it." He got off the bed to kneel in front of him, half-expecting to be executed in response to his confession. "I owe you my life." He bowed his head. "Even now, I am fully at your mercy. If you will still have me, I would be honoured to be your man." Wait no that came out wrong. His face heated up. "As in guard! I mean guard. After I've learned enough." @Sad Boi Micha

There was a silence, Ash watched as Travis got on his knees, how he bowed his head. Heard the confession, heard the fear. His eyes softened as he reached out, placing his hand gently on Travis’s shoulder. “Travis. Stand, please.” It came out as a whisper almost, concern and a softness that wasn’t there before echoed from his voice. “I know. Well, I knew the thought must’ve crossed your mind at some point. But. You didn’t act on it, you did not betray me. The opposite in fact, you listened to me, and you didn’t do anything to cause me harm.” Ash sighed softly before reaching a hand out for him, Travis felt warmth coming from it. Gentle and steady, “I’m glad you came with me, and I’m glad you are willing to stay by my side.” @Al the Killer

As Travis looked up at Ash, he realized that he hadn't really hidden his thoughts or plans well. Of course he'd picked up on them. He smiled softly and took his hand, standing up. Ash had kept him safe throughout the escape, saved him from a fate he'd been certain was his only possible future. The least he could do was return the favour by making sure the prince also remained safe. "Of course I did," he said softly. "You gave me a place to go when I had none. I'd accompany you almost anywhere." He told himself that it was because he felt indebted to him, but wasn't entirely certain that was the sole reason. He couldn't help but feel a fierce loyalty toward him that went beyond any debt. He looked down, placing a hand over the wooden disc on the necklace Ash had given him. A precious gift, and one that he would learn to use soon. "Was there anything else you wanted to ask?" @Sad Boi Micha

“No, I just, wanted to talk to you.” Ash said softly, “I do want to thank you for everything though. But I feel like everything isn’t over yet just now.” He gave a smile. Having gotten his hand back down to his side. He wanted to stay more, to talk. But knew how tiring it was for all this to happen, a soft sigh escape his lips as he walked to the door. “I’ll see you in the morning Travis.” @Al the Killer

Travis tried to ignore his heart practically skipping a beat as Ash admitted he just wanted to talk to him. But the prince was already walking away, and a part of him wanted to ask him not to go. He opened his mouth, closed it, grasped for the words to ask him to stay without sounding pathetic or clingy. He sat on the edge of the bed, leaned forward, and tried once more. "If you want to stay and talk, we can," he said as Ash reached the door. He rubbed the back of his own neck with one hand, looking away. "I mean, I'll admit, a sleepover sounds kinda juvenile, but I'm not really against the idea, y'know?" It wasn't like he'd had a childhood to begin with, and Ash was good company to have around. "Unless you want to avoid... I dunno, how scandalous is it in your culture if you sleep in someone else's room?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash stopped himself. Hand on the door knob, before letting out a small chuckle, letting it develop into a laugh. He turned on his heels, looking at Travis. A grin on his face. “You still surprise me Travis.” He came to the bed, “I’m sure it will be fine.” @Al the Killer

Travis had seen plenty of magic in the past few days. He definitely counted Ash's smile among it, if he were to be honest with himself. He smiled back, then moved to the side of the bed further from the door to make room for him. No point in inviting him to stay the night then hogging the entire bed for himself. "Glad I can still surprise you, then," he said. "Especially since it seems like I'll be sticking around for a while." He folded his hands behind his head and looked up at the ceiling. "It's been an... interesting few days. I guess I've got you to thank for that." @Sad Boi Micha

“Oh really now?” Ash got comfortable, laying down staring up at the ceiling as well. He couldn’t help but chuckle at the sentiment. “It’s been something else hasn’t it. An adventure I never really imagined.” A soft sigh came from his lips. His eyes fluttering close for a moment. Just a moment. As though he couldn’t help but to have to think on things. He had been close to Travis before. Close to him in general, close to saving him. To dropping him. Close in ways that he didn’t know he could be to someone. “Things could’ve been so much different.” Ash whispered. He opened his eyes, turning to Travis. There was almost a playfulness to his eyes. He’s always seemed so serious lately, only a hint of playfulness from time to time again. @Al the Killer

Seeing him this relaxed was a novelty, but Travis would have been lying if he'd said it wasn't nice. He nodded in agreement and, as Ash's eyes closed, looked over at him. Moonlight from the window outlined his profile in a soft pale glow. He was nice to look at, without the mask. The mask was nice for a certain air of mystery, but his face was something else. Soft black hair fell back from a face with the sort of features that were at once human and beyond the dreams of any mere mortal. He found his eyes wandering toward his companion's lips with poor timing, as the prince's eyes opened. Travis blinked and tried not to blush faintly, failing because it was not the sort of thing within conscious control. He couldn't help but feel like he'd been caught snooping around something he had no right to. Still, his eyes met Ash's, and he smiled. "You've got mischief in your expression," he teased, taking a moment to sit up. "What's on your mind?"

4:17 PM

@Sad Boi Micha

“Just thinking of the time here I missed, and the mischief I use to get into.” Ash propped his head up on his hand, couldn’t help but grin seeing Travis blush, finally feeling like it was even for the amount of times Ash himself did. “It also makes me wonder what to show you first.” Travis could almost see the gears turning in the princes head as Ash thought of what next, and for once that question wasn’t met with uncertainty. Not now, he chuckled as he glanced out the window. His dark eyes sparked in the moonlight, and he ran a hand through his own hair. “I’m glad to have you here.” He knows he said it before. But now, there was a different tone almost to it. @Al the Killer

Clearly, Ash was up to no good, and Travis was all for it. After all, he assumed whatever he had in mind would be harmless, if he was considering it while Travis was already on thin ice with the Queen. He glanced toward the window as well, but couldn't help stealing another look at the prince. He liked seeing this side of him - it was something new, and Ash seemed happier right now. "I'm sure you are. Someone to pull into your schemes? A partner in crime?" he guessed, mildly amused. "Whatever it is you're planning to show me first, I'm all for it. I know we said we'd rest, but it's not that late yet." Was it? He wasn't used to time in the fae realm, and it would take a while for him to adjust enough to gauge what did or did not count as 'late'.

4:18 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

Ash chuckled getting up from the bed stepping to the opened window. A soft breeze came through, and in a moment. Black wings unfurled from Ash as he held a hand out to Travis. “Let’s go,” he spoke. “If you trust me not to drop you.” His wings were outstretched as though waiting for this. It was clear that no matter how much Ash flies in one night. It was never enough. @Al the Killer

Travis stood and followed Ash to the window. The breeze disturbed his strawberry blond hair, and he tucked the stray strands behind his ear to keep them out of his face. The idea of flying didn't really surprise him anymore. He took Ash's hand gently and nodded. It wasn't like the prince hadn't had opportunities to drop him previously, back when he'd had far more motivation to do so. "I trust you," he assured him. "Should I hold onto you?" He tried to remember how they'd flown together that first night. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash just grinned. He seemed happy at this statement and nodded. He let Travis get in a comfortable hold, his own arms wrapping around the man. Before stepping out of the window. The wind blew in both of their faces, for a moment falling, before Ash’s wings unfurled out fully. Higher and higher they soared, able see above the kingdom below. Rising above the trees, the sky seemed to light up bright with stars, the full moon shining. Ash was much more gentle this time around with Travis, going at a pace that was comfortable unlike the quickness he had done when they first met. “This never gets old.” Ash called above the wind. Laughing ever so softly, before seemingly spotting where he was heading. “Hang on.” He started to descend, riding the current of air the trees broke away to a small clearing, a crystal clear lake below them. @Al the Killer

Travis wrapped his arms around Ash's waist, standing close to him. "Like this?" He stared at Ash for a moment, then they were falling from the window, then soaring in the air. He gasped as the air was pushed from his lungs and his arms tightened around him. The air rushed past them, roaring in his ears. The original shock of the loss of the ground faded, and he laughed with Ash. As he glanced down at the ground, the fear from there first flight together was no longer there. Ash wouldn't let him fall. That much, he could be sure of. He smiled, tightening his arms slightly as he received the warning. "Holy shit," he breathed as he looked down at the clearing they were arriving at. It was beautiful. Secluded, but not in the way that isolation often prompted a reasonable sense of fear. "So... come here often?" He kept hold of Ash even after they'd landed, taking a moment to get his land legs back. @Sad Boi Micha

“This was one of my favorite spots, whenever I didn’t want to be found I would sneak here.” Ash didn’t let go, his wings slowly folding and disappearing behind his back. “Which, admittedly, was a lot.” When Travis finally let go, so did Ash, slowly walking to the lakes shore. The moonlight seemed brighter here, the lake having a few fire flies, gently glowing in the night. Flowers grew here, swaying in the breeze. It was calm here, unlike the bustling kingdom or cities, as though nothing could break the silence. Ash stepped into the lake, wading in the water going a little bit past his ankles. “Do you know how to swim?” @Al the Killer

Did that mean Ash had brought him here so they could be alone together? Travis pushed that thought away, lest his imagination run wild, and let go of Ash. That didn't matter. What mattered was that this place was important to Ash in a sense, seemingly a secret he was sharing with him. He watched the fire flies floating around as he followed Ash to the lake shore, stopping short of the water. "I do," he answered. "I spent a lot of time at sea even before I joined... Well, you know..." He trailed off. "That is, I traveled a lot with my father, since he was a merchant, so I had to learn to swim. Just in case." He hadn't bothered putting shoes back on before they'd flown out of the window, shook there was no harm in taking a step into the lake, letting the cool water lap around his ankles. "I just think if we came back in wet clothes, people would ask questions." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash just chuckled at this but came closer to Travis, it was obvious he wasn’t thinking the same, just wanted to enjoy this night. “Not if we come in the same way we snuck out.” Ash hummed slightly in response. “Plus, flying like we did have time to dry you.” Oh how clear he had done this many times before. He stopped short of arms length, his black hair swept out of his face as he stretched his arms. The sleeves of his shirt drooping slightly showing. Ash looked up at the full moon, a soft content smile on his face. “Legends say when the moon is full on nights like this, the spirit of the lake is alive.” He gave out a breathy chuckle casting a glance to Travis. “Of course, that’s what humans who know about this place say. It’s actually even better than that.” @Al the Killer

He had a point - nobody had seen them leave, so it was unlikely their return would be noticed. They'd be fine, and he could relax and actually be carefree for once. He smiled and waded out a bit further, feeling the water rise around his legs. He hadn't heard the legends, but he also hadn't known about the lake. "What's the real story, then?" he asked, curious as he looked down into the clear water. No wonder people told stories about it - it reflected the moonlight beautifully, shining like something out of a fairytale. He listened as he walked out further, then dropped back, letting the water catch him but keeping his head above the surface so he could still hear. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash smiled and followed suit, letting himself float above the surface. “The true story of the lake dates back when this realm wasn’t protected from humans. There was one human woman who was different. Many avoided this realm, claiming it to be haunted, wanting to stay out of the way. But she was different.” Ash hummed softly as he spoke, floating in the water. “Every full moon she would come to the waters edge, pay her respects to the fae around, especially to the Lady of the Moon.” As he told the story, fireflies seemed to dance with the stars. There was a peaceful silence, only allowing Ash’s voice to cut through the air. “One day. The Lady decided to come down, curious of the human. Instead of being scared, the woman was happy to finally get to meet her. Years flew by, and even when the realm started to become closed off to outsiders, the human woman would be allowed to make trips across a thinning vail due to the full moon. All to see her love.” There was a pause as he sighed. “Of course, the Lady of the Moon was ageless, while the human woman grew older. And one final night, the Lady had one final request for the fae king who allowed them to see each other all this time. To allow the human woman to pass on in this realm.” @Al the Killer

Travis floated on his back so he could look up at the stars, his arms splayed out to the sides for more buoyancy. The loose cloth of his shirtsleeves floated on the surface of the water, light enough not to be pulled under. The night was beautiful, the company and the story peaceful. A part of him wished he could stay like this forever, listening to a love story that ended in death, but could not be called a strategy. A woman who lived a full life, and a love that transcended realms. "That's beautiful." His voice was hardly above a whisper, as though speaking at his normal volume might disturb the tranquility they had found here. "Did he grant her request? What does it mean for a human to pass on in this realm?" And here he was, unsure whether he would ever leave the fae realm. He decided he was fine with it if he didn't. There wasn't anything left for him among the humans. Except the debt that had put him on that ship in the first place. @Sad Boi Micha

“He did, he knew how they both loved each other, and the human woman respected the fae and their culture, never bringing about trouble.” Ash chuckled slightly watching Travis from the corner of his eye. “She stayed for two days here, the Lady of the Moon staying by her side when she could for those days. And finally, she passed on in her lovers arms. As for what that means? I’m not exactly sure. But on the anniversary of the woman’s death, they both can be seen dancing together on the lake.” He then started to float closer. Ash stared up at the moon, there was a sense of longing, as though he knew something he didn’t want to. “It was my great grandfather on my mother’s side that granted that. I wonder what he would’ve done with how things are now.” @Al the Killer

Travis kept his eyes on the moon, thoughtful. It may or may not have been true, but it was a nice love story to think about either way. He liked to think that the human woman passing in the realm of the fae meant her soul lived on forever, eternally close to her beloved. A sort of evaluating life after death, more tangible than any similar promise made among humans. "It's hard to say. War changes a lot of things," he said softly. He turned his head to look at Ash. "What would you have-" The act of turning his head disrupted the balance of his floating position, and he was rewarded with a mouthful of lake water. He flailed until he was treading water again, coughing up the water that had threatened his lungs. He was fine, perfectly safe. But embarrassed, and worried he'd disrupted the peace of the moment. "Sorry." He cleared his throat. "What would you have done, in his position but with the way things are now? I can't imagine it's an easy choice to make."

5:45 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

Ash was at Travis’s side staring at him a bit worried before laughing slightly. Easing the tension slightly. He tilted his head at the question his hair dipping into the water as he thought before sighing. “I don’t know. I can say I would do anything to prevent it, to stop something so.. needless. But I’m not in that position.” Ash sighed, he knew there wasn’t anything he could truly do to prevent this. “I would’ve let her pass on, for respect of her, and the Lady.” There was a pause. As Ash was deep in his thoughts for a moment. “I want to stop this war Travis.” @Al the Killer

It wasn't a surprising claim. Ash had experienced the horrors of the war firsthand and was, from what Travis had seen, a bit idealistic. Of course he'd want to stop the war. So did Travis. The difference was that Travis didn't have the same power in this situation as the prince. But the claim gave him hope, no matter how expected. He tucked a loose strand of soaked hair behind his ear before looking at Ash again. "I'm sure a lot of people on both sides of it want this to be over," he commented. "The question is, how do we end it?" He hadn't meant to insert himself into the situation, but he'd already been dragged into the war, hadn't he? If he could help in some way, why shouldn't he try? @Sad Boi Micha

But that one question, the statement of we seemed to catch Ash’s attention. It surprised him, but only for a moment, he then felt relieved. Ashe wasn’t alone in this. “Well, ideally we would find common ground, there is a balance of everything. Good and evil, nature and nurture, human and fae. Fae can feel the balance between each a little easily but..” There was a pause before Ash got an idea. “Do you want to feel it?” Ash put a hand on Travis’s shoulder and looked up at the sky, the moon had moved slightly across the sky from when they got to the lake. But it wasn’t quite there to prepare for it to set. “We still have a few hours before we are forced to go back, and the place isn’t that far.” @Al the Killer

Travis had heard it mentioned before, the balance to human and fae natures. It was always spoken in such vague terms, though. Still, he listened, then moved closer to Ash. Whether explicitly or not, he had offered to help. He wasn't about to back down now. If a human experiencing the balance as fae did could help ease the conflict, just a little, he would try it. "I want to," he agreed. He looked up at the moon as well, then back down to Ash. They had time, and out here there wasn't anyone to interrupt... whatever the process was going to be. "What do I have to do? Is there a specific place we need to be for this?" Was it like a ritual, or a more casual opening of an eye he hadn't known was there? @Sad Boi Micha

“There is a place, one that has more energy than here,” Ash then started to swim towards shore. Dragging himself out of the water. “And you won’t have to do much, as long as you’re open to it.” Ash paused for a moment. Shaking out the water in his hair. He held out a hand for Travis, but he looked a bit worried. Just for a quick moment looking at the woods. @Al the Killer

Travis followed Ash to the shore. Once on dry land, he wrung some of the water out of his hair, then tucked it back so it wouldn't get in his eyes. Something seemed to be bothering Ash, but he couldn't figure out just what it was. He offered what he hoped would be a reassuring smile as he took the prince's hand, following his gaze toward the woods. "I'm open to it," he said. "Lead the way." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash took a deep breath and nodded, before walking into the tree line. He was silent for the most part, his hands running over some of the trees as they passed, as though looking for something. Taking a left, then a right. Keeping on the path. The trees were starting to get dense, and something laid heavy in the air. The ring around Travis’s neck seemed to glow, reacting to magic near by. “Take a few breaths, and then a deep one.” Ash seemed to have found what he was looking for, pausing for a moment hand against a large oak. “Hold it as we walk through.” @Al the Killer

Although Travis could feel something in the air, he couldn't say what it was. He looked down at the glowing ring as he instinctively breathed deeper, as the air felt thicker. Then they stopped at the oak, and he did as he was instructed, acutely aware of his breathing as he did. Three normal but deliberate breaths then one deep inhale. He held it in and waited, watching for the tree to do anything. He expected a doorway or arch to appear in its trunk. Or were they just going to walk through it as though it wasn't there? Either way, he instinctively closed his eyes as he followed Ash forward. @Sad Boi Micha

Travis felt Ash guide him forward. The sensation was like going underwater. The pressure changing around him, then nothing. It felt normal. “You can breathe now.” Ash spoke gently. Around them the forest seemed to have melted away, replaced now with a garden, vines creeping up high stone walls. A cobblestone path leading in to a small statue. @Al the Killer

It was over quickly. As he was given the go-ahead to breathe normally, he let his breath out in a heavy sigh and opened his eyes to their new surroundings. It was... Beautiful and confusing, all at once. "What is this place?" he asked in awe. He let go of Ash's hand and walked ahead down the path and stopped at the state, leaning over to take a closer look at it. He didn't reach out, unsure whether it was okay to touch anything or not. "Amazing... I'm not sure I'll ever get used to magic." And that was fine. It meant it would never lose its wonder, and he needed some of that in his life. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash hummed slightly looking around the garden, it hadn’t changed much. “This is the true heart of the kingdom here. The birthplace where our magic come from. And only few can find it.” Ash watched him with a gentle smile, walking down the bath to the statue. It was of the sun and moon, with a crow sitting in between it. Vines creeped up the base, and there was flowers blooming on them, for a moment it felt like the crow was watching the pair. There was two stone platforms at the base of the statue, Ash sitting on one. “If you truly want to learn more about balance, and magic, this is the place to start. And with me here, it should go smoothly.” Ash patted the seat across from him, waiting for Travis to sit. @Al the Killer

Travis took his seat on the other platform and faced Ash. It didn't escape him that even being shown this place was a privilege, another huge sign of trust. A gift and a burden; he couldn't afford to fail Ash now. He took another look around, taking in every detail of the garden. The birthplace of magic itself. He drew in a deep breath and nodded. "I'm ready to learn." He smiled, nervous but ready nonetheless. "I trust you." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash nodded at this, and then took Travis’s hands. His own was warm, fitting almost perfectly in his companions. The moment they touched, Travis could feel a connection between them. “Just breathe and stay calm.” Ash warned. Before he started to change. This time, his true form appeared slowly, as though not to startle Travis. First his hands changed, the feathers becoming more pronounced. The talons gentle against the humans skin. His wings unfurled out, stretching high as that hooked tail rested in on the ground. Ash’s faces morphed into that angular bird like shape, having a closer look at it it was almost like a bird skull, with gentle glowing eyes. He sat a little taller at this, as though his human form was just too small for him, with thin black antler like structures from the top of his head. With each breath Ash took. Travis could feel the prince’s energy moving through him. Much like with ever breath Travis took, Ash could feel his energy in turn. “Close your eyes. Focus on my breathing.” Ash’s voice wasn’t like their own, not like it was on the ship. It was calmer, echoey in a way. “Count to three and open them again.” @Al the Killer

Travis's breath almost caught in his throat as he felt the connection. Then he heard the reminder to breathe and did exactly that as he clasped each of Ash's hands in his own. His breathing synced with the Prince's as though it were the most natural thing in the world, and he found that the show transformation didn't bother him, so much as it fascinated him. He'd never seen anything like it, as his friend changed from one creature of beauty to another. His true form, then. Closing his eyes was easier said than done, but he did. Three seconds, his lips forming the shapes of the numbers silently, then he opened them again. @Sad Boi Micha

When he opened them, he saw what Ash was referring to by balance. With it being the heart of the Ćrœś Territory, he could see thin thread like lines coming from different things in the garden. There was even a thin line from the ring around his neck connected to Ash. Each string coming to the crow in the middle of it all. “This is only a glimpse of what we can see. Each string represents a balance with ourselves, and things around us.” Ash spoke soft, his white eyes trailing the strings. “Every action connects us to the balance, each actions has an effect on that balance. Some good, some bad, but that is needed. Even our energy and connections are balanced. Which, is why you can feel my energy going through you.” His tail then flicked to one particular connection, one that was connected by two strings leading out of the garden. “Fae and humans have a connection that can’t exist without the other.” Ash stared at the connection, it looked thinner than the rest of the lines, looking fragile, thinner. “With this war, the connection is bound to be broken.” He became silent, not going to speak of the consequences. @Al the Killer

Travis didn't dare move, aside from turning his head to see all that he could, worried that letting Ash's hands go or leaving the platform would mean breaking the vision. Everything had a thread leading toward the crow statue, creating a complex network of connections. He considered Ash's words, what he said and didn't say. The consequences didn't need to be spoken aloud. Without the connection, there was no guarantee anyone would survive. "We'll destroy ourselves and each other with this war," he concluded softly. "It needs to end, but how?" It wasn't like they could show every single human the connection, one by one. He had no leverage among other humans; he was just some guy who probably wasn't even missed back in the human world. What would strengthen the connection, then? His eyes remained glued on the fragile strand. How much longer could it possibly hold up as it was? "I want to help, Ash. In any way I can." He squeezed his hands gently. @Sad Boi Micha

“Then we need to show humans we aren’t as dangerous as they think. That we can coexist.” Ash spoke, a plan starting to form in his mind. “Humans are afraid of us due to our wild magic correct? It’s no different than a human using magic however. The main difference is this.” His tail flicked to his form. It’s what allowed him to fully see the connections, allowed Travis to see as well. A form of pure magic, strong but at the same time, weak. “If we can show them that, then maybe, we just have a chance.” Another deep breath, Travis felt the energy again, a bit stronger this time, rolling over him like a warm wave. “Our kingdom won’t be hidden forever. I can feel a looming presence, like how you feel before a big storm approaches. And I’m afraid if our kingdom is attacked, there will be no way to stop it.” Slowly, Ash let go. The strings fading away from Travis’s vision. But he could still feel it, the weight of the balance, of the connection Ash and him shared. Ash slowly stood up, stretching out in his form not wanting to change just yet. “If we can show that. You and I. Maybe we will have a shot at this.” @Al the Killer

"Some humans don't really like humans using magic either," Travis said. With the rise of technology in the human world, magic was becoming even less popular. It made it a challenge to get people, especially those in power, to see reason, but maybe it was a start. Showing that humans could understand and use the same magic might ease the sense of inequity, at the very least, and the fear of the unknown. Fae would just be beings that looked a bit different. Which had also been the basis for many human conflicts, but none as destructive as the current war. As the sight of the connections faded, he slowly let his hands drop into his own lap. But everything had changed, even if it looked the same. He nodded at Ash's words before standing as well. "Let's give it a try," he agreed. "You can teach me magic, and I'll teach you about human technology. I know you may not need it, but it's good to know what they'll be coming with if they do attack and how it works." And it would help him feel more useful if he had knowledge of his own to share, no matter how practical. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash was silent, as though thinking of it. It would indeed help him and the rest of the fae in not only his kingdom, but the other kingdoms and territories. Of course there would be the problem of trying to get people to trust Travis. His hands stretched to the sky, his sharp face looking at the stars. “I would love that.” Ash’s voice now returned to normal. A whisper of a sort. As his true form subsided, slowly becoming his normal height, the feathers receding only covering his wrist, and some in his hair. The antlers falling to ash. “I want to learn about your world as much as you want to learn about mine.” Then there was a pause, before he spoke again, softer this time. “* Aliso rivo lune*.” He mumbled. It was what he had mumbled at the ship, and Travis had heard him sing it softly to himself. Ash took a moment before looking down at him. “It means, “Stars guide us”. We view the stars as the way to live by, a small part of an old lullaby taught to new fae. We will need it now.” Ash then held out his hand, knowing it would be time for them to head back to the kingdom. @Al the Killer

As Ash spoke of the stars, Travis looked up. They were clear hear, patterns and connections of their own all but visible now. He'd so rarely taken the time to really look up and notice them back in the human world, when his mind had been on surviving until the next day. It took a moment for him to notice Ash's hand stretched out toward him. "I would love to hear the full lullaby sometime," he said, taking the fae's warm hand in his. "But first, back to the palace?" He got ready for the flight there, holding onto Ash as he had before. The fear from their first flight was gone - he knew they would make it there safely. No storm, no enmity between them. Just trust. @Sad Boi Micha

And Ash started to fly. His grip gentle on Travis as his wings took them up high. Ash could t help but to test his chin on Travis’s head as they flew, not talking this time over the wind. Just enjoying it. His mind was filled with idea in what to tell him first, of course first in his mind was the language. Then the customs. Ash took a deep breath, as they started to descend slowly, and just as Ash said, no one had noticed the two sneaking back in.

10:29 AM

@Al the Killer

Travis lowered his head slightly, closing his eyes. For once, he allowed himself to feel safe in Ash's embrace. Perhaps the sky wasn't the wisest place to feel safe, but he'd never been the wisest man. The flight was over far too soon, and he opened his eyes as they descended for a gentle landing. He knew the exact moment that his feet touched the floor that he was safe to let go. Yet he lingered for a moment longer. "Thank you." He kept his voice low, as though the conversation were a secret. It might still be, since their outing had been. "For the flight, and... everything else." He trusted that Ash would know he was referring to their agreement, and to showing him the connections he'd been so ignorant of before. Even now, he could feel it.

11:27 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

For a moment Ash didn’t want to let go, and when he heard Travis thank him. He pulled back just smiling, his eyes soft. In truth, Ash should be thanking Travis, thanking him for allowing him to show what Ash can always feel. “Get some rest, tomorrow I’ll teach you all I can.” Ash spoke softly. Gently letting go of Travis. “You can stay here tonight. I’ll wake you once it’s time.” He started towards the bed. Ash’s wings were gone, only leaving a single feather on the windowsill.

11:56 AM

@Al the Killer

Travis's own room was right nearby, quite literally connected to Ash's. Most likely, the grouping of rooms had been built as a royal couple's suite, even if its current usage was more practical in nature. Yet the moment Ash offered, he knew he wouldn't say no to staying in the room. He smiled softly and nodded, pausing by the windowsill to pick up the feather. Unsure of what to do with it or what the etiquette with that sort of thing was (if it was anything like a stray hair, picking it up was already a bit weird, he imagined), he set it on the bedside table before sitting on the edge of the bed. "I look forward to it, then." He made himself comfortable in the bed, making sure to leave space for Ash. "Goodnight, Ash." @Sad Boi Micha

“Goodnight.” Ash whispered softly, laying down in the rather large bed. The night went on as peaceful as it could, not even dreams could touch the two here. With Travis being right beside Ash, he felt comfortable, content even. Knowing that there was no one who dared wondered into the crown prince bedroom anyway. When the morning came, Ash rose early. A old habit that the prince had picked up, and yet looking at Travis, Ash didn’t want to wake him up just yet. It wasn’t until there was a gentle knock on the door that Ash got up from the bed going to the door. Moments later, Ash was back, this time shaking Travis gently. “Travis, it’s time to wake up.” He gently spoke @Al the Killer

In his dreamless sleep, Travis found it easy to remain for longer than he normally would have. While he slept, he shifted position toward the nearest source of warmth, draping an arm over what he wasn't awake enough to realize was Ash. Once he was sufficiently cozy, he didn't stir again until the knock on the door came. Even then, it was a barely-perceptible shift and groan as the warmth moved away from him. Then he was being shaken gently, and rose back to proper consciousness. "Hm?" His eyes opened slowly, and it took him a moment to remember where he was. "Already?" He sat up and yawned. He'd gotten plenty of rest, but peace also left him groggy. He looked toward the door, blinking as his vision and mind cleared. After a second, he stood up and stretched his arms over his head. @Sad Boi Micha

“Hey Travis.” Ash chuckled when Travis finally woke up, stepping back for just a moment. “Yeah, it’s time to wake up. A lot to do today.” His voice was soft as he hummed going around his bedroom grabbing a new pair of clothes for Travis. Making a note for a few sets to be made up for him in particular. Walking back over to the bed Ash set the pair of clothes down on the bed. “You can get changed into these, it should be comfortable for you so.” @Al the Killer

Travis stretched as he got out of bed, still a little reluctant to move. But the day would probably prove itself worth getting out of bed, now that he was here and had discussed the future with Ash. With a brief thanks to Ash, he picked up the clothes he had left on the bed. They looked close to his size, but he'd have to try them on to be sure. For a moment, he stood there awkwardly, then remembered that he did technically have his own room. "I'm going to get changed real quick. I'll be back," he promised, then walked out to the adjacent room. He changed quickly. To his relief, the new clothes fit comfortably. The top hung loosely over his frame, but in a way that was clearly intended by the designers. He returned to the room he'd shared with Ash. "So, what's next? Breakfast?" he asked, hopefully. @Sad Boi Micha

“Of course.” Ash spoke. Stopping for a moment to look at Travis, he stepped a little closer before gently adjusting the hem of the shirt. “Hold on, let me just—” He didn’t even fully realize what he was doing. When Ash was done though he took a small step back. “There, perfect.” Now, there was a small blush to his face, and Ash gave a small blink before turning away, clearing his throat. “After we will go down to the training grounds. I want you close to me alright?” He started to the door before looking back with a small smile. “I’ll teach you everything you need to know.” Ash lead Travis through the castle, meeting up with Kathleen and Vince. Anthony was looking around, curious but sticking close to his mother. They were sat down eating when they both joined them. The breakfast looked normal enough, bread with jam spread on, eggs, sausage, and it tasted amazing. Kathleen chatted about how she was wanting to look around with Anthony, and Vince wanting to come with Travis and Ash. Once they were done, Kathleen was the first to depart, and Ash glanced to Travis, seeing if he was ready before getting up to head to the training grounds. @Al the Killer

Travis's face grew warm, but he stood still while Ash made his adjustments. Of course, he could dress himself perfectly fine, but the attention was... nice, in an odd sort of way. And, on seeing Ash's embarrassment, he couldn't help but smile a bit as well. At least they were on the same page in that regard, even if he still didn't particularly mind the odd moment. He nodded in agreement about staying close to Ash and followed him out of the room. He took note once more of every turn they took, determined to be able to navigate the castle alone should the need ever arise. He couldn't be in the prince's way all the time, after all. Once they reached the dining room, he sat down beside Ash and prepared his own plate while they chatted. He only listened at first, but soon found himself actively participating, asking Kathleen questions about hers and Anthony's plans for today. Overall, it was... nice. Was this what having a family was like? After the meal, he stood up and held a hand out to help Ash do the same. "Ready?" He smiled, then joined him on the way to the training grounds. @Sad Boi Micha

“We break up trainings to two groups that rotate from day to night.” Ash hummed, “I generally lead them, and today, you’ll learn a bit of magic as well.” Ash seemed confident to it. The training grounds were small, to the left of the main castle, and already there were a group of fae that were training. All warriors. They didn’t seem to notice the three enter. “In order to use magic, you’ll have to wear the ring.” He spoke softly. Glancing to Ash, his eyes soft but serious. “For now, I’ll translate. But listen close to the dialect.” Ash turned back to the group, his expression changing as he watched. His gaze becoming sharp as he had his arms crossed. With a sharp clap Travis could feel magic crackle in the air. “Ařæ! — Attention!” This seemed to catch everyone’s attention. Stopping what they were doing and turning to Ash. Most of them weren’t surprised, Travis recognized a few as the guards who stopped them when they first arrived. “I am glad to be welcomed back after my absence, and we have two guest. Vince from the Naïrē, and Travis, a human who will be helping us. I expect you to treat both with respect. Understand?” @Al the Killer

Travis followed Ash to the training grounds, memorizing the path once more. The crowd that awaited them was... daunting, to say the least. He had spent years of his life surrounded by fighters, sure, but they had been human. While ahead of him in terms of combat skill, they had all been on the same level when it came to magic. Now, it was not the case. He nodded to Ash and Vince to show that he had heard the advice, removing the necklace just for long enough to slip the ring from it around his finger. Even he snapped to attention when Ash said the words, instinct reacting to his voice. Or perhaps it had been the magic he'd felt affecting him as well. Ařæ... He would remember that. He remained silent through the introduction. When it all was said, he waved awkwardly to the group in greeting, before realizing it was probably better to bow, and compensating by doing exactly that. He could only hope he was not making a fool of himself. Judging from the looks he got, hope was futile. He stood upright, avoided eye contact, and let the moment move on to the training itself. He had no weapon, but idly spun the ring around the finger. That seemed to get some attention, and even to lessen the general sense of judgment from the warriors. Of course anyone close to the prince would be given some semblance of respect. @Sad Boi Micha

And respect was given, even if it was begrudgingly. At first, it was the basic start, warm ups, hand to hand. Soon the magic, being paired off one by one to be against each other. Travis paired with Vince. “Watch how your opponent moves.” Ash stood next to Travis as the first match begun. “Magic comes from self, and sometimes from help by an amplifier or an item that holds magic. Much like the ring.” His eyes flicked to Travis looking at him with a small smile. “That rings indeed holds my magic, but it is amplified by the mana in your own body. Making it as much yours as mine.” Travis could feel the area grow tense, easily identifying the magic in the air. Being in the midsts of it, it was different from what he was use too, Ash kept an eye on him to make sure it didn’t overwhelm. The next fight soon was lined up. Ash then spoke once again. “People think magic can be commanded, and for the most part, it can.” There was a small pause as it started, the stark difference to the two fighters were clear. One more reserved, one that was aggressive in their approach to it. “Everyone has different styles, but each warrior worth their salt knows to respect magic. The more you respect and allow it to work with you, the powerful it will be. It’s apart of you, after all.” As that fight ended, soon it was Vince’s and Travis’s turn. The draconic fae stretched, getting ready as he looked to Travis with a smile. @Al the Killer

Travis hardly looked at Ash as he stood next to him. Instead, he focused on watching the first match. Combined with what he had been told about magic, it was beginning to come together, the pieces of knowledge coming into place. He didn't watch the physical combat as closely. That, he had been taught, to an extent. No, it was the flow of energy that mattered, the shifting of power he would not have been able to see prior to the night before. It ran along the connections in the world between all living creatures. Not creation, but the changing of what had always been there, manipulated through the energies that each of them carried. As the first fight ended, he took a moment to close his eyes and simply focus. The magic from the ring hummed and connected with his own mana. Now that he could sense both, it seemed so laughably simple. How easy it had always been, with two energies that were meant to balance each other. Human and fae, always connected. He opened his eyes and smiled at Vince, trying and failing to not come across as a bit cocky. Now to put everything to the test. "Ready?" he asked, falling into a prepared stance as he faced off against Vince. He couldn't explicitly see the connections tying themselves to the fae anymore, but he could feel it. That was all he would need. @Sad Boi Micha

“Ready as you.” Vince chuckled stretching. He seemed comfortable here. Two smaller draconic wings coming from his back, not fully sized from when he carried everyone to the kingdom, just big enough to support him in flight. Golden scales coming up more on his hands and arms to his neck. His tail not wrapped around his waist. Vince was ready for a fight. If he was worried or going to hold back he didn’t show it. Everyone around the two having backed up to a larger circle. “Match start!” Ash called out. Starting the match. Vince moved first. He was taller than Travis, but with his wings and tail it slowed him down. The draconic fae knew this well, but his specialty was close up. Travis could feel the spark of magic that came from Vince before it happened. It felt like a heat coming from his hands as a flame was produced. It felt like the strings were being pulled. Moving and adapting as magic was used. @Al the Killer

Travis ran the calculations through his head while he could. Big guy, probably slower. Keeping his distance would help for defense, but casting any sort of attack spell at a distance would be new territory for him. He'd take the chance. As Ash gave the signal, he stepped back, then darted to the side. Heat. He focused on shifting the balance in favour of cold, but the best he managed was a pleasant breeze through the arena. Hardly a counterattack. He kept his distance, taking advantage of his own speed to dart about the limited area they had. He could focus on experimenting with magic he had not yet used before another time. Right now, while he was new, he could lean into the power the prince had given him, manipulate the existing energy just enough to use it. Shadowy magic expanded from the necklace he wore, gathering in his hands. Perhaps not quite tangible, but enough for a temporary blinding attack. At least, for an attempt at one. @Sad Boi Micha

The magic felt familiar. As familiar as the first night he met Ash. When Ash first transformed. The shadowy magic was cool, calm. It felt malleable in his hands, like it would fold into what he wanted should he try. As long as he kept it stable. It was as Travis wanted. The shadows seemed to grow more before shooting out. Going for Vince. Who reacted sharply by trying to move away, to produce another spark of a flame. But the magic Travis had used was faster. The shadows binding around him. And for that moment, Vince could not see. Stumbling back. @Al the Killer

Now. While he was off-balance, Travis could make a move and hope for the best again. He wasted no time in gathering more of the power and sending it forward. It felt malleable, so he manipulated it further. Something more solid this time; a knockback spell, one that he hoped would land the dragon fae right on his back. After all, he didn't want to cause real injury. Except maybe to Vince's pride, if he did pull this off. But while the magic didn't come from his own body, he was using it to channel the magic. He could feel himself growing lightheaded. He'd had no chance to build up magical endurance, nor was he quite sure how to control the flow of magic so he wasn't using more than he needed. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash watched with great interest. Taking notes on Travis’s stance and endurance. He knew Travis could do it, and seems it was correct though there would need to be more work to be had. He frowned seeing Travis’s movements. Could tell how it strained on his body. Vince indeed fell on his back. The shadows dissipated when he did. He sat up staring Travis down, before giving a chuckle. “Not bad kid.” But he was up again. Whispers filled the air as the rest of the people were watching. Vince took a steady step forward. Keeping his eyes on Travis. Prepared if another attack come on. @Al the Killer

Travis kept his distance, trying to get the flow of magic under control. It was over... was it? Either way, he could feel it slipping away from him. The shadows surrounded him, wisping toward Vince as Travis tried to stop them. Then it all worked at once, and the shadows drew back, some returning to their natural state on the ground and others draining back into the necklace. He blinked, catching his breath as he looked over at Vince. "Th-thanks," he said. "...How long does this match go, again?" Because he was pretty sure if it wasn't a first-hit kind of thing, his performance would rapidly decline. @Sad Boi Micha

“Usually until one of us can’t fight anymore.” Vince spoke, he glanced at Ash who nodded. “Though you did land a good hit. Especially for your first time using magic.” Vince walked over to Travis holding out his hand. It was a friendly match after all, there was no need to push it any further. “Plus.” He said in a low voice. “I think you just gained some attention with the troops.” Travis noticed how everyone stared. They had seen humans fight with magic, but nothing like that. So it indeed made them stare. But it wasn’t hostile it was simple curiosity, and some with respect. He saw Ash leaning against the wall, a smile on his face as he nodded towards Travis. @Al the Killer

Travis breathed a sigh of relief, fully aware that he still had a lot to learn even as he shook Vince's hand. Then, at Vince's next words, he looked back at the gathered troops. It was... nice, seeing that he'd managed to gather attention that wasn't distrust or disdain. His attention returned to Vince, and he nodded. "Right. Good match, Vince. We should practice together again some time." He walked back to stand beside Ash, briefly returning the smile. Exhaustion remained, but he'd be able to stay standing for the remainder of the training session. Especially with a wall to lean against. He turned to face the open space, making sure to observe the remaining fights closely. "I'll work on the whole control and endurance thing," he promised Ash at a whisper. @Sad Boi Micha

“You did good for it being your first fight with magic. Don’t put yourself down over something small as endurance.” Ash spoke softly. His eyes glancing over to Travis. “You’ll build it over time. You and I can practice once you rested, as it’s best not to push yourself to far.” Ash couldn’t help but smile though. He was clearly proud though, having watched the fight intently. “After this. I want you to teach me some of the things you know.” Ash was curious about human technology. “If you want.” @Al the Killer

Travis nodded, grateful for the break, and for the sight of Ash's smile. He must have done something right, at least. Talking about human technology would be a lot less tiring, so he'd manage that without any real problem. Except for finding a way to describe it to someone with very little familiarity. "I'll tell you anything you want to know," he promised. "But I think starting with weapons will be a good idea, since that's what you'll have to be on the lookout for most. They're not the same as magic, but can be just as destructive. Probably more." After all, magic had uses other than causing harm. @Sad Boi Micha

“So things have advanced?” Ash’s eyes flicked over to him before settling back onto the training. A frown on his face. “Thats.. worrisome.” He knew technology has advanced in the human realm. But with there being a different flow in the fae territories, there were always things that he didn’t know. “During the fight before I was captured, we were ambushed. Is that what they had?” Ash thought back onto Travis’s words last night. About how they would need to be prepared as a result of if they brought those weapons to a fight. @Al the Killer

"Things are always advancing," Travis explained. "Humans are nothing if not creative." He sighed. "...Unfortunately, we normally use that creativity to find new and interesting ways to kill each other. And to kill fae, for that matter." He thought back to the day he had met Ash. Ash had already been captured by the time Travis had seen the prince, but he could certainly guess what would have been brought to the battlefield. What he must have faced off against before the Vultures had swooped in. It was predictable, to someone who had lived fully in the world that had produced them. "Humans do still carry swords in battle. Sabers are standard issue in their militaries still." When had his own species become a them to him? "But the blade is generally a last resort. Gunpowder's really popular now, so I'm guessing they would have been carrying rifles or pistols, and likely had a few cannons with them." He tried to think of a basic description, one that didn't rely too much on prior knowledge of human technology. "A cannon is that big iron tube that makes loud noises and shoots huge, fiery projectiles. Guns are like that, but a lot smaller and faster. They all need to be reloaded at some point, and that can be a time-consuming process." @Sad Boi Micha

As he spoke. Travis could see Ash processing the information. His eyebrows furrowing and realization could be seen flickering on his face as Travis described them. “That’s terrifying.” Ash mumbled ever so softly. “But you are right, everything is always advancing. And maybe the fae realm should as well.” The last piece was said quietly as he looked around. The fae realm was quicker with time. And yet, when has it really changed for Ash? While it wouldn’t have bothered him at first, with the prospect of war coming onto their realm. No. He would not think like that right now. “Okay. That’s a good place to start.” Travis could almost see the gears turning for Ash. @Al the Killer

Travis stayed quiet once he was finished talking, giving Ash time to consider what he had just told him. It must have been a lot to take in. From what he had seen so far, the fae had never focused much on advanced technology. When everyone could use magic, it probably seemed redundant to build machines to make things easier. But now they would need every advantage they could get. He leaned closer to listen as Ash spoke quietly. "Maybe," he agreed, just as quiet. He wouldn't be surprise if the idea proved unpopular. "But it's not my place to say... I may not be an expert on... well, anything, but I think a general idea can still help. I think combining technology and magic could give you some good results." Assuming they could work together, at least. He straightened up, but kept an eye on Ash, wondering exactly what it was running through his mind right now. HIs expressions weren't always readable, with or without the mask. "Okay," he confirmed. "Is there anything else you wanted to discuss right now? I shouldn't stop you from overseeing the training here..." @Sad Boi Micha

“It looks like Vince has it covered.” Ash said with an amused chuckle. Vince had started another sparring match. This time against two other soldiers. This time, there was no holding back. Ash gave a small sigh. “I’ve known that man for many, many years. And he never once changed. He can handle it, besides. Talking like this is nice. It gives me..” There was a pause as Ash turned his full attention to him. “Peace of mind. I guess.” He glanced back to the battle, and stepped back in time for a loose shot of magic to hit the wall where he was. Causing everything to stop and fall to silence. Ash looking toward the two who were currently fighting Vince. “Vince, looks like you could use a break.” Ash called. He looked to Travis with a small smile before going into the fighting area. Vince took Ash’s place beside Travis. “This will be quick.” @Al the Killer

Travis followed Ash's gaze to watch Vince. "He's good," he commented, facing the battle fully to watch his technique, and that of the other soldiers. "No peace of mind like telling you what sorts of weapons you'll be facing off against if humans manage to attack... But yeah, I get what you mean. It really is-" His eyes widened as the magic veered out of the sparring area. Without thinking, he jumped forward to push the prince out of the way, not stopping to wonder if Ash might already be stepping back by himself. The magic hit just behind him, and he stopped to make sure he kept his balance, looking over at Ash. His arm remained around the prince before he realized they were being stared at and let go. He should have considered that Ash's reflexes were perfectly fine. "You're alright?" he asked, smiling to hide his mild embarrassment. Maybe he'd overreacted after all, but he'd already sworn his loyalties to him, in a sense. He stood facing the match again as Vince joined him. "Good fight out there. You know, until the..." He pointed at the spot on the wall that marked the near-miss. @Sad Boi Micha

Travis could feel Ash’s surprise when he went to protect him. Could feel Ash’s hand on his shoulders, a gentle squeeze and a small ”Thank you.” before he had left. Vince stared at the spot for a moment. “Yeah. Yeah that can..” He paused slightly, before staring towards Ash and the other two. “Not our best moments.” He chuckled scratching the back of his neck. As Ash stood in front of the two, they nervously glanced at each other. Because while it was training. He was their prince as well. “Don’t hesitate now. There is no reason for that.” Ash spoke as two large black wings appeared from his back. “Think of me as your enemy. Give it all you got.” They still casted a glance to each other, yet it seems Ash’s encouragement outweighed their hesitation as the set off. Working together. Ash was fast. Zipping up into the air to dodge their attacks. Shadows seemed to gather in his hands to take up form, as though it was claw to be molded. Shadows appeared at the two fae’s feet, locking them in place as Ash dived down. Travis could feel the weight of magic in the air. Could tell that though Ash had told them not to hold back, he was. They couldn’t avoid the head on blast as Ash dived down, wings tucking to his side. This cause one to be knocked out of the ring, into the arms of the rest of the soldiers waiting for this to happen. The other one skidded close to being out of bounds. But was still standing. Travis and the other fae could feel electricity crackle in the air as the fae gathered his magic. Before directing it to Ash who shot up again. Using his wings to move smoothly to glide through the air and move from the lightning shots. @Al the Killer

Travis chuckled as well. "You guys got caught in the moment and nobody was hurt. It happens," he said, looking over at Ash. "I don't think I've ever seen him really fight before. Now's as good a chance as any." And as he watched, he understood why that power he'd wielded had been so hard to control. It wasn't just that it was wild magic and he was inexperienced. The prince was truly a force to be reckoned with, and Travis couldn't take his eyes off him, studying his every movement. The fact that he'd been captured in the first place was almost hard to believe. "Damn," he breathed, thoroughly impressed. "I am... Relieved we're not enemies anymore." @Sad Boi Micha

“While fae magic is wild, and can be molded into any nature. There is always an element to it.” Vince hummed watching as well. “Since I’m a draconic fae, I lean more towards flame. While Ash? His nature is shadows. His father before had that nature as well.” Lightning hit Ash’s wing. Causing him to fall. They disappeared before he hit the ground, landing and rolling, using the momentum to propel him forward. Their energies clashed together as the two men went hand to hand. Using magic to block another’s blows. Or to push them back. But when the other got distracted enough with a shadow. Ash swept their leg. Causing them to almost hit the ground face first, if the prince didn’t grab onto the collar of their shirt. “Good form, magic needs a little more restraint. Focus on hand to hand for a while and you’ll make a fine opponent.” Ash brought the man to his feet, dusted him off, before going over to Vince and Travis. @Al the Killer

"And mine came out as shadows because I'm just borrowing from what Ash gave me," Travis said. "I think I get it. Interesting." From the sound of it, that element might shift if he found a way to better connect with the magic, but for as long as it didn't feel like his, and he wasn't fae, it made sense that he wasn't naturally shaping it right now. "Does Kathleen use m-?" He stopped as he saw Ash fall. He took a step forward, then thought better of it. It was a sparring match; if they'd gone too far, they would stop. He hoped. Still, he could only relax once he saw Ash sweep one of his opponents. "Good fighting out there," he told Ash. "I'd say we should spar sometime, but I'm not sure I'm ready." He grinned and patted his shoulder. "You're fine, though? That seemed like a hell of a fall." @Sad Boi Micha

Travis could hear Vince chuckle as he stepped forward when the prince fell. It wasn’t one where he was laughing at Travis, but a realization. “It’s good to see someone else care for Ash. Especially the way you do.” He teased slightly. It was low enough that only Travis could hear as Vince stepped away from the two. Patting Ash on the shoulder hard, saying something in a different fae dialect that Travis didn’t recognize. Something that made Ash elbow Vince as he walked away. But now Ash focused his attention on Travis, feeling the humans hand pat his shoulder made him smile. The only thing that seemed to show for the fight was some scraps when they were doing hand to hand combat. “Thank you, and I promise I’m fine. The first thing you learn about flying, especially if you will fly mid battle, is how to tuck and roll if you’re falling.” Ash chuckled. Then, his eyes glanced to the right past Travis, to where the training grounds connected to the main castle. There a guard stood with a letter, and his mask. A few string of curses were muttered on his breath, because he knew what that meant. He knew what king of meeting his mother was wanting. “Ařæ! Training done for the day. Get to your assignments.” Everyone who had been standing at attention nodded at this, being quick to leave after cleaning up. @Al the Killer

Travis's face reddened slightly at Vince's comment. "I..." He looked away and spoke just as quietly. "I owe him my life, and swore loyalty accordingly," he said, unsure if it was an explanation or an excuse. Luckily, Ash saved the day from further awkward commentary, and he was more than happy to greet his friend. "Hm... no wings, can't relate," Travis joked. "But that's probably a lesson I could use anyway, with how many flights I've been taken on lately already." Then, just like that, the lighthearted moment ended. He looked to the guard first, then to Ash's expression before his own changed, growing more serious. He had no clue what was going on, but he understood that it couldn't be good. He stood a bit closer to Ash, a silent signal that he had his back all the way, and spoke in a low voice. "Trouble, I'm guessing? I can go with you, if you want." Wherever he'd end up going. He was sure Ash wasn't about to read a letter delivered by a guard then just stand in one place. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash had broken the seal to read the letter. A sigh coming from him as he grabbed the mask snapping it on. “It’s a fae council meeting.” He said almost quietly. “I’m afraid you’ll have to set this out for now.” But Ash placed a hand on his shoulder. “But I’ll send for you if I need you.” It was spoken as a promise. As he disappeared with the guards. Vince sighed slightly, a bit worried it seems. @Al the Killer

That only caused Travis's concern to intensify. He nodded anyway, since it wasn't exactly his place as an untrusted human visitor to broach their confidentiality rules. Besides, Ash was bound to be safe while surrounded by the rest of the fae council. His brows knitted together with worry, but he stepped back and bowed his head. "Alright, if you say so," he said. "When you do send for me, I'll be there as quickly as I can." He stood there and watched Ash vanish. The prince had looked grim. There was no way it wasn't something serious. After a moment, he looked over at Vince, who seemed just as worried. "Any clue what it could be about?" @Sad Boi Micha

Vince was silent for a moment before sighing. “If it’s a council meeting and with his mask, it’s not a casual one. It’s a war meeting.” Vince had seen that look in Ash’s eyes. Had seen the worry, and seen how he had changed. Shifting into a the role of not just a prince, but a general with the click of his mask. “Why don’t we go to the library? They’ll know when to call us if needed, and I’ll even help teach you the draconic dialect.” Vince smiled at Travis. Trying to push his worry aside for Ash, and how much the prince would take on. @Al the Killer

Of course, nothing about the situation sounded casual to begin with. "Emergency war meeting?" Travis guessed, because he was sure Ash would have said something if this had been planned. "...Shit." He found he couldn't smile back, even at the suggestion. It wasn't like he could read much in English, never mind in fae languages. But he needed something to occupy his time, and to keep him distracted from the worry that filled him. "Yeah, alright. I said I'd learn the language, so let's get started. Thanks," he said. He started toward the nearest door, but stopped there to let Vince take the lead, since he didn't know the way, himself. @Sad Boi Micha

Vince lead the way to the library. It was large, with different books, all in fae language. Vince was quick to pick some out, including one that was different from all the rest. Vince was a patient teacher. Explaining how the fae language relied on not just the phrase, but the tone and action that accompanied it. “Ash was right in the sense of it’s good to learn immersed in the environment itself.” Vince hummed slightly. Having the book he picked out opened. “It’s how I first learned the Ćrœś dialect when I first came here.” Vince had also pulled out a map that showed the fae territories. There was three main territories that held its different kingdoms. The biggest being the Ćrœś, which held the main kingdom of Hiłœw where Travis was now, as well as two smaller provinces. Yūłįg, a smaller territory that held the Naïrē kingdom and one other kingdom, where he and Ash landed after the storm. And the Mījæ territory, which held only one king of Īaśņ. “The Mījæ lost some kingdoms in past wars.” Vince sighed slightly looking over the map. “While each kingdoms have different dialects, I find Ćrœś to have the easier dialect, and of course draconic, though not many know about it.” There was also a small blacked out spot on the map. Right about the Yūłįg territory. @Al the Killer

Travis often struggled to pay attention to long lessons on a singular topic, but he tried his best. Luckily, there was variation between politics, geography, and language, so he could follow along by asking to shift to the next topic when he felt his attention drifting. The map, unlike everything else, was easier to keep track of. This was familiar territory, not in the sense of what was on the map, but as far as format went. He looked closely, trying to memorize as much as he could. "And Croœs will be most useful for me to learn, too, while I'm here," he acknowledged, since that was the region they were in. "How similar are the dialects to each other? Would I be able to travel to another region and still understand most of what people were saying, or would it be like a completely new language?" He leaned in closer and pointed toward the blacked out spot. "And what's that? Or what was it?" ((Apologies for butchering some spellings, I can't type certain letters on my phone.)) @Sad Boi Micha

(It’s fine! We can do without the special characters then to make it easier on you! I’m sorry for that!) “The dialects are similar with key differences. It’s the tone shifts that matter.” Vince was also writing things down later for Travis to look over. “While as Draconic is more of a different style than that of fae. It’s an old language that is dying out I’m afraid.” Vince explained with a soft sigh. As though as though it was a shame for it to die out. He glanced at the map where Travis had pointed out. He looked at the map as Travis pointed at the blacked out spot. Many maps had that spot. Just beyond Yulig up in the mountains. It was a sizable area, and Travis saw Vince’s face change ever so slightly. He gave Travis a smile though. “That was Hrashima. The kingdom of dragons, where my people are from.” He picked up a book that seemed much older than the rest and thumbed through it before finding what he wanted. He turned to book towards Travis, showing off a diagram of the territory. The words were different from the usual fae writing he had seen. “This book was written by a draconic scholar, and gifted to the Croes territory so our history could be preserved.” Vince was gentle with the book, closing it. @Al the Killer

Travis didn't miss the tense he used. Was, combined with the way it was blacked out, told half a story. He looked over the diagram as carefully as he could in the time he had. Of course, he couldn't have read it to begin with, but he kept the book in mind for the future. It might have some helpful historical information. "What happened to Hrashima?" he asked. "Are dragons separate from other fae, or a specific variety?" The more he learned, the more he realized he still had yet to learn. Yet, even with all his gaps in knowledge, he found himself feeling more at home here than he had in years of traveling with the Vultures. Maybe it was the fact that he could consider Ash, Vince, and Kathleen friends. Or maybe it was the lack of constant threats to his life. (It's fine! You'll just be able to tell whether I'm typing on my computer or phone based on spelling. Lol.) @Sad Boi Micha

“Dragons are fae yes, we have the same wild magic as the rest. However our origins, culture, and life spans are different.” Vince gave a gentle smile, deciding to answer the easier question first. “Our legends state that the original Draconic fae was born directly from wild magic and the sun. And our kingdom was located high in the mountains closest to it.” His serpentine like tail seemed to flick ever so slightly as he talked. A certain spark in his eyes. He seemed to not have talked about this in a way, excited to do so again. But then he sighed slightly. “As for what happened? Lots of factors as to why it’s no more. It happened years ago, when I was still really young. Thats how I ended up in the Naire kingdom.” His smile soon returned however. “And then lots of years later, I met Kathleen. And now we have a family.” He spoke again, softer. “And I can pass down my history to Anthony when he is older.” @Al the Killer

It made sense. All civilizations fell eventually, and he wasn't about to ask more about those factors. It might have been a sore topic, after all. Everything else seemed more than safe though, so he tried to think of more questions Vince might want to answer. "High in the mountains... Closer to the sun? Makes sense," he said. "What were the mountains like? With everything going on here, I don't think I'll be traveling any time soon, so you'll have to excuse me if I have too many questions." He smiled though, more than happy to let his own curiosity show. This was a good way to pass the time, to hold back his worry about whatever was going on in Ash's meeting. "Oh, and you are offering to teach me the draconic dialect, right?" @Sad Boi Micha

“The air was thin, and the seasons could be cold. But it was home, it felt so warm.” Vince said with a gentle sigh. Smiling as he remembered it. “And yes. Of course I will.” Vince would teach Travis, being careful not to overwhelm him with information, first starting on the basis of the Croes dialect and using draconic to build on it. After some time, the doors to the library opened, causing Travis is pause, Ash stepping inside. His mask was off, around his neck as he sat down next to Travis, glancing to the maps, and books that were opened on the table. @Al the Killer

Travis gladly went along with the lesson. As he felt his focus beginning to wane, the door opened and he looked up to see Ash in the doorway. He stood up in an instant, locking eyes with him as he tried to read his expression. He'd come back from the meeting, but that alone didn't say much about how it had gone, aside from the fact that it could, technically, have gone worse. "How did it go?" he asked, stepping around the table to walk over to the prince. "Can you talk about it, or is it all confidential?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash looked tired. But smiled at Travis when he came near, having missed his presence in truth. When had he started to miss him? Ash motioned for Travis to sit with him. “It went..” His voice trailed off with a sigh. “As well as you could expect a meeting with the council heads of the kingdoms.” He pulled the map a bit closer pointing at the boarder of the fae territory, and the human territory. “There has been an increase of activity here. And the council thinks that the human army is planning an attack soon.” Ash looked up from the map, and saw the way Vince looked at him. A hint of worry on the Draconic’s face. @Al the Killer

Despite the dire situation, Travis couldn't help but smile back. He sat beside Ash and looked at the map with him. He understood more than he would have an hour ago, and found himself glad that he had accepted Vince's invitation. As he considered the new information, he looked between the two fae. "So we don't have long to prepare," he summarized. "Do you... I understand if I'm not trusted enough here, but do you need someone to collect information from the humans? I mean, they'd consider me one of them..." He'd never tried his hand at espionage before, but it seemed like the sort of idea that might work. Except for the matter of communicating information to Ash. Or the risk of getting caught. @Sad Boi Micha

“No.” It was quick, firm from Ash. “No I can’t risk..” Ash stopped for a moment, surprised at himself. He knew the danger of sending Travis out, and sure it could be the easier way of it. Yet, Ash couldn’t imagine putting Travis in danger. Vince seemed to sense how he felt, and glanced to him with a small frown. “Ash, don’t be so quick to push the idea aside. He has a good point my friend.” With Vince’s interjection, Ash became silent closing his eyes to think, the gears turning into his mind trying to find the possibilities. Of not what was happening but what could happen. “Okay..” Finally he let out a sigh, opening his eyes to look at Travis. “If you are sure this could work. Then we can arrange a plan.” @Al the Killer

Travis blinked, not expecting the idea to be shot down so suddenly. Almost protectively, it seemed. He opened his mouth, but had no clue what to say, and was ultimately grateful that Vince stepped in so he wouldn't have to say anything. He shut his mouth and nodded along, taking a moment to think more about what he might do. The idea had been impulsive, but Vince was right; it might not be a bad idea. "Right. We'll have to plan out some details ahead of time. I mean, if I'm coming from fae territory, they're bound to have questions," he said. "As close to the truth as possible might be best, combined with some fae stereotypes to make my loyalty to humanity and whatever story I come up with believable to him. The storm hit our ship, the prince escaped, and I was kidnapped and taken here, before barely managing to escape with my life?" @Sad Boi Micha

“That could work.” Ash hummed softly. “They would possibly be more inclined to trust you if you did say you were our prisoner. But what if they advance quicker than we think we you get caught mid battle?” After all, Travis barely had time for training. He had his mind opened to the connections, which did help in a way. “What about the council? What were they wanting to do?” Vince asked, glancing at Ash. “They wanted to wait.” Ash sighed. “Set up an ambush here and here.” He pointed to the map where they were planning the attack. “But I tried to discourage it. It would make things more complicated and we would lose more people.” @Al the Killer

Travis hadn't thought about that, and needed a moment to consider. "I plan to get out before any battles," he said, uncertain now. "But if it comes down to it, I do have your magic. I know I haven't mastered it, but I'd have surprise on my side. A burst of magic would be just enough to let me escape. We should also figure out how I'm going to get information back to you." He looked down at the map to consider how the ambush might go. Safer to be there to catch the human army by surprise than the other way around, but Ash was right: casualties would still be higher than a pitched battle. But inevitable in all situations. "We'll lose fewer if we know exactly where the attacks are going to be coming from, right?" he asked. "If we set up traps first, attack where they won't expect..." He wasn't sure exactly how this worked; he wasn't a general. He wasn't even a real soldier. "What if... I mean, I'd be with them for a little bit. If I have time to sabotage their weapons or something before I leave, that might help?" @Sad Boi Micha

“If you can sabotage it. It would give us an advantage, and we can give you a communication stone to keep in contact.” Ash mumbled. Before looking at Travis. “I was just hoping it wouldn’t escalate this soon.” After all, he was wanting to avoid this war. “I mean.. they did ambush your troops and captured you Ash.” Vince pointed out gently. “I get you don’t want this war. But it’s still going to be here a little longer. You of all people should know this.” Ash couldn’t help but narrow his eyes at Vince. He knew the man was right. The capture of the fae prince, who then escaped, would escalate things on both sides of it. “We need to present this to my mother, and the council.” Ash got up, and looked to Travis with a weary smile. “Well, you’ll get to sit in on your first meeting.” @Al the Killer

"I'll do it," Travis promised. "Just show me how to use a communication stone before I go." He stood back up as Ash did. Vince had a point that the war had already escalated, and wouldn't go away any time soon, but he couldn't help but feel sorry for the prince. He'd just returned from being captured, and this was a hell of a burden to be thrust onto him so soon. "I just wish the meeting was under better circumstances." He placed a hand on Ash's shoulder and offered a reassuring squeeze. He had no further words of reassurance when he himself was not reassured. Whatever happened would happen, and the best they could do was try for as good an outcome as possible. Now was time to plan for exactly that. "Let's go, then. After you, Ash." He stepped aside to let the prince lead the way, trying to ignore the knot of worry in his stomach. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash lead him through the castle halls, pulled his mask on as the guards let them through two sets of large doors. The room was huge, with chairs around a large, circular table that had a map, and currently there was six fae sitting there. Queen Lilith sat at the head of the table staring at the map, her expression unreadable with a mask exactly like Ash’s covering her face. Two fae’s were currently arguing, a king and another queen. The words being thrown out sharp and cutting, Travis recognized the queen speaking the same dialect he heard back in the forest they had stayed at, and the other was speaking in the Croes dialect. But it stopped midway as the doors opened. Ash didn’t bow, not like a prince would have. But stood at attention like a general as he spoke. “Hevae.” He spoke calmly as he took a step forward at the table. “I come with a plan.” “Ash.” His mother sighed, before glancing at Travis and spoke something he didn’t know. But Ash didn’t flinch just took a step forward. “I have a plan.” Ash said again, firmly this time as though he was planting his feet in the ground, refusing to move, speaking in English. “You don’t know the technology like Travis does, you can’t send a soldier to get information either. An ambush can work but it’s a temporary solution, and one that would cause more of my people, our people to die. You need us.” Ash wasn’t wrong. He knew he wasn’t wrong. But there was still a tightness in his chest. He spoken against his mother before, but never in a war meeting, even with him acting as General. Never in front of the rest of the fae royalty. But his mother wasn’t reacting. Not yet. Only giving her son, and Travis a hard stare from the mask. @Al the Killer

The tension was the first thing to hit Travis as he followed Ash into the room. He stood frozen for a moment as the argument suddenly went silent, then scrambled to bow. Still, he kept quiet at first to let Ash speak. After all, he knew that he was still not fully trusted here, and had no authority among a group of royal fae. Or any group, for that matter. He lingered a step behind Ash, like either a bodyguard or a lost puppy. He wasn't entirely sure which, yet. He wanted to reach out and reassure the prince, but this didn't seem like an appropriate time or place for such a gesture. Then it went quiet, and he felt the need to fill the silence with something. "If I may speak for a moment?" He waited before continuing. "I understand your hesitation, Your Majesty," he said. "But I have sworn an oath of loyalty to the prince and, by extension, all of Hilœw." At least he could show he knew where he was. "If I need to swear it again in front you and the other fae royalty, I will. Should I fail to aid you properly, I will make sure the cost is on my head alone." It was risky to make such promises, as he knew what the weight of his words would mean if he did fail. But he remained as unwavering as he could. Admittedly, knowing he would have Ash's support helped. @Sad Boi Micha

Now this. This got everyone’s attention. At first their gazes would be on Ash, but the moment Travis spoke up their attention turned to him with a frown. Ash was rigid, knowing to let Travis talk, trusting in what he was saying. He almost flinched hearing that promise fall into the quiet room, but force himself to speak. “He has indeed sworn his loyalty.” He reaffirmed. “You would make a promise like that to a fae, a ruler no doubt?” Lilith spoke firmly, her eyes narrowing on Travis, as though trying to see through him. “You realize how dangerous that is no?” Ash was about to speak, but his mother just raised a hand standing up so slightly. “And how shall we trust you on this? It is human nature to lie.” She continued after a while. “What are you even planning to do?” @Al the Killer

Travis nodded to show that, yes, he did realize, and he did mean it. He made every effort to appear confident, even as his heart clawed at his chest like it wanted to get out and flee from his own stupid decisions. "The fact that I am making that promise, with a full understanding of the danger, should show that I am serious about it," he said. "It's my understanding that pacts made between fae and humans are every bit as binding as pacts between fae, regardless of human nature. Don't correct me if I'm wrong; as long as I believe that's the case, you have no need to think I'm stupid enough to test it." He took a moment to let his words sink in while he considered just how to present the plan. "You know where the human army is. I know how they think, because I am human myself, and because I once believed what they said about you. If I run to them under the guise of an escaped captive and feed them information that is either practically useless, already known by them, or false but difficult to disprove, they'll believe me. I'll stick around for long enough to learn their battle plans, sabotage their weaponry, then make sure I'm not being followed when I come back." He bowed his head. "With your permission, of course, Your Majesty." @Sad Boi Micha

Queen Lilith was silent, everyone was silent as she didn’t let her stare leave Travis. In truth, she watched him with interest, her mind trying to click the pieces together. And what she found, seemed to please her as her frown lightened up, straightening out to a thin line. “And you trust this man with your life?” She spoke finally, her question directed to her son. There was almost no warmth to her voice, but there was a hint of amusement. Ash took another step forward. Placing a one hand over his chest, and his other behind his back as he bowed. “With my life mother.” It was quiet, gentle. One everyone heard. Whispers came from the rest, far language. But Queen Lilith raised her hand, quieting everyone around. A smile on her face. “By early light, you’ll leave the kingdom and head into the human camp. From there, we have to trust you.” She paused for a moment. Waited for someone to object, and when none came. She nodded. “Ash, you shall show him how to use a communication stone, and prepare for it.” She nodded at him, gesturing them both to leave the council. @Al the Killer

Those few moments passed in tense quiet for Travis as he awaited the Queen's decision. For a while, an irrational part of him worried she might yet decide to have him executed, just to be safe. Of course, she didn't. Only a fool would destroy what they could use, and he was under the impression that Lilith was no fool at all. That didn't lessen his relief as she spoke. Granted, he wasn't any safer now, given his task. But it gave him a chance to prove himself. "I will see to it that your trust is not misplaced," he promised. As they were dismissed, he waited for Ash to lead the way out. "So, I would say that went well," he whispered to the Prince. But what if he hadn't? Had he gone too hard with that promise? Had his words been out of turn? He glanced back, admittedly still nervous. "It did go well, right?" @Sad Boi Micha

“It..” Ash casted a quick glance back as well as they walked through the empty halls. “It went better than I thought it would.” He said this with a small sigh. He would walk close with Travis, a bit more relaxed now as they walked, but a frown was on his face, the meeting replaying through his mind. While Ash was impressed and proud of Travis, something seemed to bother him. He watched a guard pass by, before speaking once they were alone again. “You know you didn’t have to promise to put your own head on the line.” Ash spoke in a soft tone, “I appreciate it though, I appreciate you.” Ash looked at Travis, looked at him in a way that showed that he was indeed truthful to it, but there was still a sense of unease. Because while Ash knew Travis was the one who suggested it, was the one who promised. Ash didn’t want him to go. @Al the Killer

Travis looked over at Ash, not entirely convinced it had been unnecessary. "That's what I'm doing anyway, isn't it?" he asked. "If I'm caught, they'll kill me, and I wasn't planning on returning until the job was done anyway." He stopped walking. Standing closer, he reached for his hand, only hesitating for a moment as their hands brushed together. "I appreciate you, too, and I trust that you won't let me be executed if I do somehow manage to fail without being killed by the other humans." He smiled. "I just need you to have the same amount of faith in me, if it's not too much to ask." He pulled his hand away and stepped back abruptly, as though burned. Or, perhaps, as though he'd just realized how oddly intimate the moment might have appeared to anyone passing through the halls. Even platonically, it was likely inappropriate for him to be seen so close to the Prince in public. "I don't want to disappoint you either, whether my head was literally on the line or not." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash was silent as he listened to Travis, he could feel the human’s hand barely brushed against him before pulling away, resisted the urge to grab it. Guilt formed in his chest, heavy as a stone as they walked. He trusted Travis, he had faith in him. But has he truly showed it? Finally Ash sighed, “I’m sorry.” He had stopped walking now. While his arms stayed at Ash’s side, he fidgeted with his thumb slightly. “You’re right, I need to have faith in you like you have faith in me,” he started, “and I do. I do have faith in you, and what you promise.” He looked out the window, looking away from Travis when he seemed to be trying to figure out what to say, or more so how to say it. “You won’t disappoint me. I know you won’t.” @Al the Killer

Travis gave him his moments of silence, as many as he needed. He wanted to seem patient, but that didn't stop his relieved breath out as Ash spoke, nor his soft smile at the response. Mutual trust, of course. What an odd thing, but one he wanted more than anything to get used to. He wanted to believe he could do this and, if Ash did, that made it a little easier for him, too. "Good," he said brightly, because he didn't know what else to say. "Then I'll be sure to come back with whatever information I can find, and without an army of humans chasing after me." He turned away from the prince and started walking away. "Now, you were gonna show me how to use a communication stone, right?" @Sad Boi Micha

Ash nodded leading Travis back to the library. Vince was still there, Kathleen and Anthony sitting together on the floor. Seems they were waiting for the two, worried about everything. “The council has approved of our plan.” Ash finally spoke, a smile from him. Vince watched the prince, worried almost. Ash had moved to the other side of the room, where an oriental oak cabinet sat, opening it, he pulled out two round jade stones with a hollowed out center in the middle of it. He handed one to Travis and the other he held in the palm of his hand. “These stones channel magic specifically for relaying messages from one person to another. The moment you hold it, your magic is connected to the stone, and sync with the matching stone.” He shifted the stone slightly, and Travis could see engravings in the inner ring. Looking at his own, it had the same inscriptions. “Unlike normal magic, this one has a verbal component, if you saw the work while you’re holding the stone, then it will send out your message.” Ash rubbed his thumb along the inscription. Before speaking. “Ulke.” He spoke. The stone glowed as he whispered something into it. The stone that Travis held glowed slightly, a pleasant warmth in the palm of his hand. Holding onto it, he could hear the message Ash whispered. “With this, as long as you hold the stone, only you can hear the message.” @Al the Killer

Travis couldn't really blame them for being worried. A part of him still was, too. But if he could pull this off, they could prevent so much loss of life that it would be worth the risk he was taking. Still, he let Ash break the news, before following him to the cabinet. He held out a hand to accept the jade stone, then held it up as though that would help him get a better look at it. Ash's voice entered his mind, warm and familiar. He smiled and looked down at the stone in his own hand. "Ulke," he repeated. Once the stone began to glow, he whispered to it, but found his voice was muted to his own hearing. "Like this?" he asked. He observed the way the stones glowed and, assuming he'd gotten it right, relaxed a bit before looking at the others in the room. "And none of you heard what we just said, right?" After all, if he was to use this sort of magical item for espionage, he needed to make sure absolutely nobody else would hear it. @Sad Boi Micha

Vince shook his head. “No one will hear that unless they have the matching stone.” “Or they have a powerful mage blocking communication, however that’s a powerful magic most can’t have.” Kathleen hummed slightly, putting down the book she had been reading currently. “That is a very little possibility however.” Ash nodded in agreement with her, slipping his stone in his pocket. The prince seemed to be relaxed, not hesitant about the plan anymore as he glanced out the window. Knowing that the time was coming. “I’ll have a guide show you the way until you get to the edge of the forest, once you leave, that will be our own communication. I’ll hold off our attack as long as we can.” He turned to Travis, hands behind his back. “We are counting on you.” Despite the heavy words, a small smile was on his face. “Now, we should rest for a little before you are sent off.” @Al the Killer

Travis wasn't too worried about the possibility. Sure it existed, but every human he knew feared magic, associated it only with the fae nowadays. Of course they did. If they understood how the world was connected, they wouldn't be so set on their war against the very balance of nature. He was ready now, that much he knew, to the point where he hadn't expected Ash to insist on resting. "Do we have time for that?" he asked, uncertain. Even so, he couldn't help but return the smile. He never could. "I mean, I'm not complaining... if we've got time to rest, let's go." His hand squeezed tighter around the stone for a moment, appreciating its cool weight in his grip. Another connection to Ash, and one that would get him through this mission. They were counting on him, and he was counting on his own ability to not let them down. "So I'll go in, learn their plans, sabotage their weapons, then get right back here... am I missing anything?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Once you get out, we’ll be right there for you.” Ash nodded. “And we have a few hours, might as well use it for rest.” Vince and Kathleen got up, holding Anthony’s hand. “We will leave you guys to it.” Kathleen spoke softly. “Be careful Travis.” The three left, and after Ash made sure everything was in place, lead Travis back to the rooms. “I’ll wake you when it is time to be ready.” @Al the Killer

Travis had no doubt in his mind that they really would be there for him. Hearing it said was still a comfort, though. "Careful as ever," he promised Kathleen. "Wait, no... more careful than that." He'd done some foolish things in his life before, as most people had at one point or another. Now wasn't the time for them, though. He watched them leave, then followed Ash out of the room and back to his own. "Thanks," he told Ash once they reached the room. He didn't actually know if he would be able to sleep, with everything that had happened. With everything that could happen. What he did know was that his magic use during his earlier spar with Vince had taken a lot out of him, so he had to at least try. He clapped a hand over Ash's shoulder like an old friend and gave him a nod. "I'll see you later, then." With one more smile toward him, he turned away to sit on the bed and remove his boots so he would be able to rest better. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash smiled slightly nodding, before going to his own room. Yet, the prince wouldn’t be able to sleep, staring up at the ceiling. In his mind, he was going over every possibility, every situation that could happen. This caused him to slowly close his eyes, sleep taking him slowly. Of course, Ash didn’t sleep long. Waking up just before the first rays of early light. It was early, far too early, most still would be asleep. But the mission weighted heavily on Ash. He didn’t change much, grabbing a black cloak, and his mask. Before knocking on the door that connected to Travis’s room. “Travis? It’ll be time soon.” Ash called out. He did t want to come in without permission, instead waiting to see if there would be a response. “I’ll be waiting here to escort you to the edge of the kingdom.” He stepped back. Looking around the room for a moment. He had everything, and he trusted Travis. That’s all Ash could repeat in his head. @Al the Killer

The fates surprised Travis by allowing him to fall asleep rather easily. It was restful, dreamless, a deep oblivion. He couldn't be certain exactly how long it was, but when he woke up, the windows were still dark and Ash was knocking on his door. "Hm?" He yawned and stretched his arms over his head, fists accidentally thumping against the headboard before he opened his eyes. "Time already?" He sat up and ran his fingers through his hair. It was long and tangled, but he opted not to too much more about it than a basic run through with his hand. It only made sense for him to look a little disheveled if his 'captive' story was to be believed. He got out of bed, changed into fresh clothing, and put his boots on. Despite his grogginess, he went through the motions quickly, not wanting to waste a single second of time. He spared one glance in the mirror before opening the door. "Alright, let's do-" He was cut off by his own yawn, which he hid behind one hand. "-this." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash nodded. It seemed most of the castle was still asleep, the night sky pitch black only dotted with a few stars. They seemed to watch as the two left the castle grounds and past the city, walking deep into the forest, only a few guards nodding to them. Ash said nothing as he walked, only looking back at Travis to make sure he was still okay as the forest slowly started to change. “Here is where I can’t pass.” Ash spoke quietly. Before putting further ahead to the north. “Keep going that way, and you’ll be able to find camp, after sabotaging the weapons and getting the information, get out. I’ll be waiting for your signal.” He turned to Travis, and silently took off the mask, giving him a gentle smile. For once, Travis could see the emotion in Ash’s eyes. The worry, and yet there was something more. Trust. The prince trusted him. “Aliso rivo lune, Travis.” Ash whispered. @Al the Killer

Travis followed him out quietly. This all felt very... He wasn't sure. There was a small instinct telling him they shouldn't be doing this, even though he consciously understood its necessity and everyone here already knew and agreed with the plan. He kept up with Ash, only falling a step behind to let him lead the way through what was still unfamiliar territory for him, personally. At last, they stopped. He faced Ash and nodded. He knew the plan, of course, but he felt something more needed to be said. He just wish he knew what, so he could say it. Instead, he simply returned the prince's smile. "I won't let you down," he promised, then paused to try to remember what those words Ash said meant, if he'd learned them. He reached out to clasp Ash's hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Take care, Ash. I'll return soon." He looked further north, where the campfire smoke from a small encampment was just visible. @Sad Boi Micha

They were the same words he said on the ship, the same words he told Travis in the garden where the strings intersect. Stars guide us, Ash had told him. And though the last star melted away with the rays of dawn, it always seems to watch. Ash let Travis grasp his hands, letting them warm his own hands. For a moment he also squeezed it gently, and without thinking he pulled the human into a hug. “Return safely. Thats all I ask.” He whispered. Before letting go. He stepped back into the shadows of the trees to allow Travis to go. Almost perfectly blended in. Now Travis was alone in the forest, there was silence beside the soft bird calls. The camp wasn’t that far, far enough for Travis to still make it look like he had escaped. @Al the Killer

Travis's eyes widened in shock at first as Ash hugged him, but as soon as he recovered, he wrapped his arms around him in turn. It was nice to know that Ash just wanted him to return safety, but he knew he'd made a promise to the fae court. In doing so, he had tied his safety to his success. "I will," he whispered anyway, and let go of him. Then he was, it seemed, alone. He paused to run his hands chaotically through his hair, trying to make enough of a mess that a capture and escape story would be believable. Then he turned and ran, tripping over a tree route at one point and falling onto his hands and knees. Good; he didn't want to arrive too clean. He spent an additional moment in the dirt for extra measure before pulling himself to his feet and running at top speed for the human encampment. It was time to bullshit like his life depended on it. Because it did. @Sad Boi Micha

The encampment sat near the fae’s territory a few feet from the forest. From within the guards were changing shifts, and people started on their routines. The general, Sebastian Grium, leading the soldiers was inside his tent, going over the maps and plans he had gathered. Of course his attention would be drawn to the commotion outside, guards yelling that something— or someone was coming out of the forest. A soldier coming in to fetch him. “Stop him.” Was all he said to a soldier. Who nodded stepping forward, keeping in the territory a gun raised. “Halt!” The guard ordered. Keeping his aim steady. “State your business.” Sebastian frowned, looking to the man. He seemed roughed up, didn’t look like any fae, but the general was aware of the tricks that their enemies brought. @Al the Killer

Travis stumbled to a halt at the order. He didn't need to fake flinching as he held his hands up; nobody liked facing down the barrel of a gun. He took a moment to catch his breath, since he hadn't been much of a runner. Besides, his adrenaline was running high. Just not for the reason he was about to give. "Don't take me back there, I-!" He stopped and blinked as he looked at the guards, then let out a sigh of relief. "Oh. Finally, another human." He looked back over his shoulder as though worried he was being followed. "I was held prisoner after the transport ship I work on got caught in a storm. I just escaped." He kept his hands up, not about to make any sudden movements until that weapon was out of his face. @Sad Boi Micha (edited)

“Put the gun down man.” Sebastian ordered. The soldier followed the command immediately standing at attention. “You’re safe here now, you can come forward.” Sebastian was a large man, watching Travis with his arms crossed. He kept the encampment running smoothly, and made sure that whatever was in the forest didn’t cause trouble before their attack. And Travis could tell he was studying him. Even as he allowed him to come near. The general knew about the transport ship incident. How some of the fae prisoners were rumored to escape, and only a handful of humans survived. “Come on inside the came and state your name son.” His voice was deep, rough. @Al the Killer

Now this would be the hard part, harder even than staring down the barrel of a gun. Travis had already determined that he would stick as close to the truth as he could without giving away anything that might hurt Ash. Common knowledge and anything that happened in the human world, he couldn't risk getting caught in a lie about. Manipulate smarter, not harder or however the saying went. He stepped forward and slowly lowered his hands as he endured the scrutiny. "Y-yeah, alright." He nodded and followed the big guy into the tent. He would remain standing unless instructed to sit. "You can call me..." He trailed off on purpose, then shook his head, as though just remembering he was safe now. Humans couldn't do anything with his true name. "Sorry, I mean my name is Travis Drummond. How should I address you?" @Sad Boi Micha

A flash of pity showed up on the generals face watching as Travis was hesitant. He couldn’t imagine what the fae had done to this man. “I am General Sebastian Grium, and General is just fine.” He reached out a hand for Travis to shake. “Let’s get you some breakfast and we can talk about all that has happened. The Vultures were convinced that you, and the rest of the men on your transport ship were gone.” Sebastian watched Travis, waiting to see how he would react with the news, a small frown on his face. “A ship that survived said they saw a man being carried off by a large bird fae. Was that you?” He finally asked after a moment. @Al the Killer

Travis shook his hand, his grip a bit loose. He genuinely brightened up slightly at the mention of breakfast though, since he had skipped that particular meal this morning. For the best - let the humans think he'd gone hungry. People tended to ask fewer questions the more pity they felt. At the description of the rest of the crew being presumed dead, he looked down. "...I see. I guess there wasn't much hope with how far out at sea we were." His face held a pained expression, and perhaps some of it was genuine. While he wouldn't have called any of his crewmates friends, they'd been all he'd had. He'd eaten, slept, and traveled beside them for most of his life. Some pangs of loss would only be natural. "I think that was me. That was the prisoner I was guarding, some sort of fae prince. He flew from his cell, captured me..." He stopped and looked up at Sebastian. "How long has it been? I haven't had any real sense of time since I was brought here." @Sad Boi Micha

Sebastian let go and started leading Travis to the camp. The men who were waking up watched Travis enter. “The prince huh.” Sebastian hummed slightly. He was about to ask something else, but paused at Travis’ question. “It’s been two months now since the storm sank many ships.” Sebastian answered as he sat down by the fire. Soon the rations of breakfast were served. Many of the soldiers around camp coming and going to grab their portion. Each one glancing to Travis, pausing to watch, but a glare from Sebastian caused them to scatter off. “They lost all but one ship in that storm, it wasn’t natural.” He shook his head. “But, the one that survived, their captive did as well.” @Al the Killer

Travis looked around at his surroundings, wearing the clueless expression of someone way out of their element and still a bit disoriented by it all. In truth, he was committing each detail to memory. Once the job was done, he would have one shot at escape. He couldn't afford to fail because he'd failed to account for some small detail. "Two months?" he asked as he joined Sebastian by the fire. "I never would have guessed it had been that long. Weeks, maybe. I guess time really is different here." He sat down with a sigh of relief, taking his feet off the ground as though he'd been walking and running for quite some time. Once breakfast came around, he looked to Sebastian for approval before taking a ration. He could pretend it was a behaviour picked up from the fae, with the cruel irony being that that particular trauma was real - stemming from his time with the Vultures. "Not natural... do you think it might've been caused by fae?" he asked, brows scrunching together in concern. "I'm guessing the ship that survived was the same one that saw me get carried off." He had to wonder about the captive. The question was, how could he ask without being suspicious? "I just hope that prisoner didn't escape." @Sad Boi Micha

The camp was small, the perimeter marked by a makeshift small fence. The tents close together with the fire in the middle, and two tents that seemed to be on the outskirts. “Maybe. The sea itself is unpredictable, but to have all but one ship survive? It’s the only thing that makes sense.” Sebastian paused for a moment, glancing at Travis. “They didn’t. In fact, they’re the reason we were lead here.” He nodded towards one tent that was on the outskirts of the camp, one that seemed to be guarded. The two guards not armed with guns, but iron swords. “Showed us the way to the opening after some..” Sebastian trailed off shrugging. “Convincing from the sorcerer we have here.” He said it so plainly. Which made sense, Sebastian’s job was to invade into the far realm, using one of their own seemed logical. He took the last bite of his ration looking at Travis. “You might’ve well get some rest. Stay within the camp, we haven’t seen too many fae come to the boarders of the forest, but you never know.” @Al the Killer

Travis followed Sebastian's gaze to the guarded tent. There. If he could find a distraction when the time came, he would have to make one more stop. It wasn't part of the plan, but he could only imagine what 'convincing' had included. Or what else they might decide they wanted from their captive. He turned his head back down to focus on devouring his meal like a man starved. Never mind that his appetite was a bit soured now. He picked his head up as he was told to rest. "I won't wander off. Not knowing what's out there... Will you be staying here, too?" he asked. "I don't think the rest of the men really want or trust me here yet." They had given him several looks, after all. He looked down, his eyes distant, the look of a recently-traumatized young man. Which... he supposed he sort of was. He had finished eating quickly, so there was time to rest. Or to act like he was resting, when what he needed to do was plan. And inform Ash of the change in the situation. @Sad Boi Micha

Sebastian clapped his hand on Travis’ shoulder. “If I’m not in my tent I’m out making sure my men are in line. No one will harm you here son, you’re safe.” And with that, the general got up, walking back to his tent. Leaving Travis alone in the middle of the camp. And yet, the general was right. Besides the glances and whispers, much like that of the fae court, no one approached Travis. A few even gave him a nod in passing. Everyone believed that he had recently escaped from the cruelty of fae, believing that made him less of a threat for now. @Al the Killer

Travis jumped slightly at the gesture, but offered an awkward smile. It was a blessing, really. Going totally unacknowledged was too much to ask, but being free to familiarize himself with the camp was the next best thing. If all else failed, he could just pretend he wasn't sure where he was supposed to rest. He stayed by the fire for a moment longer, warming himself and taking a second's rest while he considered his next possible actions. After a few seconds, he stood up and began to wander. There was the second tent on the outskirts that he needed to consider, the one without the prisoner. What was in there? He glanced that way to see if it was guarded, before turning his attention back toward the inner camp, looking for the locations of weapons and food stores while seeming to search for a place to rest. Of course, the command tent was easy enough to identify. He'd check it out when Sebastian was working with the men, to see if there were any marked-up maps. For now, after his initial scan of the area and its resources, he stepped into one of the other tents to find a space to rest. Or to pretend to rest, as the case may be. His mind would not rest any time soon. @Sad Boi Micha

The second tent on the outskirts didn’t seem to be guarded, though it was close to the fae’s tent. Around the camp it seems the armory was next to were the storage for rations and other supplies was right beside each other. A rotation of guards going in to grab their arms before going on their assignments. Everyone here had something to do, the schedule running tight despite the interruption with Travis. Stepping into one of the tents, he found that they could house two people for a sleeping area. One side seemed preoccupied, maybe a little messy, with books scattered about and supplies on the bed. It was clear that whoever preoccupied this tent didn’t seem to be use to encampment life. The other side it seemed no one has touched. A perfect spot to rest for now. @Al the Killer

Travis spared a glance at the more lived-in side of the space. A less experienced soldier, most likely. Whoever it was wasn't here, so he'd just have to hope they wouldn't mind the new roommate. He sat on the edge of the empty bed to remove his boots for a moment, before laying down, turning toward the tent wall, and pulling the blanket over himself as though to sleep. Listening for any new arrivals, he dug the communication stone from the pocket he'd kept it in. "Ulke," he whispered, quiet as could be as he held the stone in his hand, still hidden beneath the blanket. He closed his eyes and focused. "...Ash?" It should work, he knew; he remembered exactly how this was done, after all. He kept quiet until getting some indication that the secure connection was created, just to be safe. He wouldn't say more without hearing a response. @Sad Boi Micha

The stone was cold in his hands, and when he said the phrase, it glowed ever so dimly. He felt a gentle spark from the stone, heat warming his hands, Travis could feel the pull of magic, the connection being made. “Travis?” He head a whisper through his mind. Echoing and reverberating, the voice carried a tone of relief, as though the prince was waiting just for this call. “Im here. Did you make it safely in the camp?” Ash was in the library, trying to keep himself from pacing all over his room. He had kept the stone close when he heard Travis’ call. The prince held the stone gently in his hands as he asked his questions. @Al the Killer

Travis closed both hands around the stone, not wanting to risk any sign of its glow being visible. Not that it was likely through the blanket. Still, he couldn't help but smile as he heard Ash's voice in his mind. Even from this distance, it was... nice to hear him again. Reassuring, almost. "I made it," he said. "I've been welcomed in, and encouraged to rest for now. I have the layout of their encampment figured out, and their armory will be easy to access, but no word on their exact plans just yet..." He trailed off, uncertain of exactly how to explain the next part. "I... I did find out how they got here. The humans here have a captive from the Vultures' surviving trip. I haven't seen the captive yet, but I can't leave without at least trying to free them, too." The tent was guarded, but perhaps there would be a brief window of opportunity during the changing of the guards, or he could find his way in through some other means. @Sad Boi Micha

A string of curses in Ash’s language was heard from that. There was a small pause as Ash sighed. This is what he was afraid of. “Okay. Do what you must, but be careful.” Ash spoke calmly now, any trace of anger that was there before wasn’t present. There was a bit of silence for just a moment before Ash started to speak. Trying to find a plan. “If you can know when they will try and invade, we can intercept them, catch them off guard. When that happens I need you, and the fae if possible, to be out of that camp.” Ash continued, thinking about what could happen if he was still in the camp. “I’ll be waiting on your signal Travis.” @Al the Killer

Although he understood the anger was directed at the situation rather than himself, Travis tensed slightly at Ash's reaction, on instinct alone. He forced himself to relax, an act which was considerably easier once Ash spoke calmly. He let the silence settle in as well, listening to Ash speak again before saying anything. "I'll be careful," he promised. "And I'll try to find out what I can. Time and location." The sabotage itself would need to be subtle. Things that wouldn't be noticed until it was too late - a few loosened screws on their cannons, for instance - or could be blamed on wild animals, such as barrels of gunpowder knocked over. He could manage that, he was sure. Then the army would leave for their invasion, and he would get the fae and get out. It wasn't a perfect plan, there was still so much that could go wrong. But it was a plan. "I'll let you know as soon as possible. Hopefully, we'll be in touch soon." @Sad Boi Micha

“Alright. I’m cutting connection.” Ash said after a moment. “I’ll be waiting.” The stone grew cold as the connection severed. And everything went quiet, the only voices being the people around camp. Travis alone in the tent. Then, there was footsteps, someone cursing under their breath as the tent flap closed. @Al the Killer

Travis pocketed the stone and closed his eyes. The moment of rest, true or not, didn't last long before he heard someone step into the tent, cursing to themselves quietly. He rolled over to face the new arrival, pushing his hair away from his face with one hand as he opened his eyes. "Morning," he greeted, taking a moment to look at whoever this was, taking in whatever details he could without staring. "You must be the other person staying in this tent?" He spared a glance toward the other side of the shared space. @Sad Boi Micha

The person froze seeing Travis. He seemed to be in their early twenties, probably the youngest person here, and they didn’t even seem to be a soldier. He was a little too thin, eyes seemed tired, hair a little too long, he didn’t look like he belonged here. Close to their chest was a heavy book bound in leather, the seal of a sorcerer engraved on it. “You must be the one who showed up this morning.” He blinked, green eyes watching Travis as he shuffled to the other side of the tent setting the book down. “The one who came from the fae’s territory?” He didn’t look at Travis now. Just starting to collect the books putting them back into the chest that was tucked into the corner of the tent. Although, Travis could watch him glance over at him curiously. @Al the Killer

It didn't take a genius to piece together who this was. Travis wasn't sure yet whether sharing a tent with the camp sorcerer was useful or a risk. Hopefully, he wouldn't have to be here long enough to find out. For now, he sat up and stretched his arms over his head as though he'd just been napping for a moment. "Yeah. You must be the sorcerer?" he guessed. He didn't need to hide his unease; the magic of sorcerers may have been tolerated, but that didn't mean most people were comfortable with it. He still made an effort to mask it though, out of courtesy. "The one who found the way into fae territory?" Well, the work had been the captive fae's, but bringing up the process of convincing them seemed like it might sour the mood. @Sad Boi Micha

The sorcerer was silent at the moment, occupied with clearing off a space for him to sit. But he sighed slightly at the questions. “Yes, I’m the sorcerer.” Finally put away the supplies, before sitting down on the bed, stretching. “You can call me Blyth.” Blyth eyed Travis for a moment, not because he was annoyed, but he seemed to be cautious. He knew sorcerers weren’t liked, it was the main reason why the other side of the tent stayed empty. It took a moment for him to speak again, realizing he could’ve come off as rude. Blyth ran a finger through his hair. “Forgive me for being rude, I just didn’t expect anyone to choose to stay in this tent.” @Al the Killer

Travis nodded, accepting that the sorcerer probably wasn't the friendly sort. Fine by him - he was, quite literally, not here to make friends. "Alright, Blyth," he agreed with a nonchalant shrug, clearly ready to accept that to be the end of the conversation. Then Blyth spoke again, and Travis looked over at him. "It was the first one I saw with an unused bed," he admitted. "Anyway, if the General trusts you enough to keep you around, I'm guessing I don't have anything to worry about... You did seem pretty annoyed when you walked in, though. I'm hoping that wasn't about me being here?" @Sad Boi Micha

“No no, it’s not you.” Blyth shook his head. “It’s simply because of the others. That’s all.” He admitted. “Besides. It’s not me that you have to worry about.” He went quiet at the last part, stopping himself before he could say something wrong. After all, he was still in the camp, knew what not to say. Tensions were already high with them being on the edge of the fae territory, it didn’t help they were keeping a fae prisoner. “You can stay here. If you don’t mind me being a sorcerer.” There was a slight akward pause. “Though I don’t think there is any empty space here.” @Al the Killer

Now that was interesting. "There's something I have to worry about?" he asked, then frowned as though in concern. "Is it the captive the General mentioned? Aren't the guards enough to keep any fae prisoner here secure?" He glanced toward the door tent. Maybe he should be worried; it wasn't like the prisoner knew he was here to help. He took a moment to breathe, apparently to steady himself. "Better a sorcerer's tent than with the fae," he lied. "Anyway, this bed was empty before I occupied it, so that's good enough for me." @Sad Boi Micha

Blyth seemed to flinch when mentioning the fae prisoner, shaking his head. “No. As long as you stay away from that tent, you don’t have to worry about the fae. She— It isn’t strong enough to escape.” He was quick to change his words. Try and hide the mistake. Blyth looked out to the tent flap. “I’m more concerned about the trigger happy guards just waiting for conflict to come out of that forest.” Blyth watched as Travis seemed to steady himself, frowning at this. He couldn’t help but to sigh, feeling as though he put too much on Travis, after all rumors spread fast, he heard about what happened. “But. I’m sure you’ll be fine. You seem to have more experience dealing with people like them, then I do.” He shrugged getting up. “I have to get on with my own rounds. But if you need anything, I think the general is in his tent.” @Al the Killer

The slip-up didn't escape Travis's attention. Nearly humanizing the alleged enemy... He reminded himself that the sorcerer was still working with the humans, nonetheless. Trying to convince Blyth to change sides in this conflict would be too risky, and he didn't have time. "Yeah, I get it. I saw the looks I was getting when I came out of that forest." He shrugged. "I don't think they'll do anything, though. Not against us, at least; we're on the same side, after all." He settled back into his bed, laying down and turning away again. "Go ahead and do what you've gotta do. I might get a few more minutes of rest before seeing if the General has work for me." Those guards really would be a problem, then. He'd need a distraction, or at least a way into the tent that wouldn't stir suspicion. If the General has work for me... Perhaps that was it. He stood up after a moment, straightened out his clothes, then put his boots back on for the walk to Sebastian's tent. @Sad Boi Micha

The camp was busy as noon started to set in. A change of guards, duties being swapped, and Travis found himself at Sebastian’s tent. The general was in the middle of doing paperwork when Travis came in. He didn’t look up at first, thinking it was another soldier. “Yes yes what is it?” He glanced up and smiled seeing Travis. “Ah, it’s just you. Had enough rest?” He put down the pen and ink, motioning for Travis to come closer. The generals tent was about the same size as all the others, but where the second bed would’ve been there was a desk that he was sitting at, a chest of papers and maps beside it. Inside was neat as though he was barely in this tent, except for the desk he was currently using. @Al the Killer

Travis stepped closer only after getting the go-ahead from Sebastian. He glanced down at the papers scattered around the desk, the natural curiosity of anyone in a new, cluttered location. The maps might be useful if there were any markings on them, but only if he could find a chance to look closer. Even if he couldn't read much, markings and land mass shapes might be familiar enough. But for now, he spoke with the General. "I have, thank you," he said. "Blyth was kind enough to share his tent. I hope I'm not interrupting your work too much, but I was wondering if there was anything around the camp I could do to help out? Since I'm here anyway, I want to make myself useful, even if I'm not exactly a soldier." The smile he offered was awkward, but eager, the look of someone who wanted to help, but wasn't sure how. @Sad Boi Micha

The scattered papers seemed to be from higher up, a few marked places around the forest, and a letter he was writing. Sebastian hummed in thought, drumming his fingers lightly on the desk. It was clear he was trying to find something for Travis to do, eyeing the man slightly. “Well, we could have you go through our inventory. It’s light work, but it will keep a man busy.” He said. “There is some other light work around camp that we can have you do, it would take some things off of Blyth’s hands.” He knew that light work would probably be for the best for Travis. Sebastian knew he was part of the vultures, thought it wouldn’t be no different from that. @Al the Killer

Travis nodded along. He likely could have worked any task to his advantage one way or another, but inventory seemed particularly useful for him. "Yeah, I don't mind inventory. Just checking what we have on hand and what we'll need more of, right? I've done that before." Most of what he'd done before had been lighter work. Keeping watch over prisoners, for the most part, but the occasional inventory check or simple repair. He spared another glance at the papers on the desk. "Is there a list I need to check off, or should I just go start counting?" Any written component would be a challenge, but he'd manage, he was sure. @Sad Boi Micha

Sebastian grabbed a piece of paper that was on a stack. “Here is a list, just write down the number next to the item, and then turn it into me or Blyth.” Sebastian gave him a nod with it to send him off, turning back to his own papers. With all the soldiers around, and after believing Travis to have just escaped from the fae, seems he didn’t think Travis would be in any trouble. The supplies tent wasn’t hard to find, right there next to where the weapons were stored. Usually there seemed to be soldier running in and out of the two, getting their respective items that they need for their tasks. But there was a lull in the noon hour, with people already working on their rotation, a shift change wouldn’t be held until late in the afternoon. @Al the Killer

Travis took the list. "Thanks," he said, folding the paper in half for now. "I'll get right to it, General." He stood there for a moment, trying to figure out the correct form of respect to show before giving the world's most awkward salute and leaving the tent. It would do, probably. He started with the weapons tent. Her looked at everything gathered, then down at the list, before raising an eyebrow. "...Wrong list for the wrong tent, then," he said aloud to himself, before walking to the actual supply tent. His brief excursion to the 'wrong tent' told him one key fact: the canons had been welded together. There were no screws that could still be loosened, at least not without reaching down the barrel and using some knowledge he simply did not have. Another method would be necessary. For now, he knelt by the first crate of supplies and set to work on marking everything off. @Sad Boi Micha

Both tents were equally large, carrying their respective items. Weapons held the canons, guns, gunpowder, bullets, and the items to clean off the weapons with. A few iron weapons also were kept here, though almost every soldier walked with one. Storage held almost everything the tent needed, and wasn’t different from the regulars supplies Travis would normally see, though there was more of it. Seems that they were preparing to stay for a while, judging by the food rations. He wasn’t disturbed while counting. Only twice did someone come into the storage tent, and they payed Travis no mind. Choosing to instead just continue on with the tasks they were given themselves. @Al the Killer

Travis remained alert throughout the process. When others were near the tent, he counted normally, not a single conspicuous movement to his behaviour. He would keep note of what was taken if it was something he'd counted already, ever the diligent worker. When he was alone, he set aside a few extras in a smaller box among the shadows, things that wouldn't be missed. A hammer here, a long nail or stake there, small tools they had a few of handy. Most of what he would need was in the weapons tent, but backup supplies wouldn't hurt. When he was finished, he stood up, his knees cracking slightly. He stretched for a moment while they remembered how to be legs, then carried the list with his counts out of the tent and back toward Sebastian's tent to see if he was there or he'd have a moment to snoop. @Sad Boi Micha

Stepping inside the tent, Travis didnt find the general inside, meaning he must’ve been with the troops. His desk was neater than when Travis first saw it, a stack of papers tucked away on a corner, and the map laid out. The map showed the surrounding area, the camp, the forest, and the mountains beyond it. There was a marking for the camp, and seemed a path was laid out to go into the forest. Yet, it seemed to stop half way, as though they didn’t know exactly where to go. Seems that information wasn’t available to them at the time. @Al the Killer

It was the opportunity he'd hoped for. Travis looked back over his shoulder to make sure nobody else was behind him, then looked over at the map. He memorized what he could, working out how to describe it when he next spoke with Ash. He could guess well enough what might happen once they reached the edge of their knowledge. Scouting, likely. The fact that the army wasn't entirely sure yet was good news, too. He turned his head to either side as though trying to figure out if he should just set down the paper, then decided to bring it with him. If Sebastian was busy, he could simply bring it to Blyth, see if the sorcerer accidentally let any other information slip. For now, he turned to leave the tent. @Sad Boi Micha

As he went to leave, Sebastian came in, holding a plate of food, he stopped seeing Travis glancing to the sheet of paper he was holding. “Travis! There you are.” He stepped past him placing the rations down before motioning for him to stay. “I can see you finished with inventory.” He sat down and held his hand out for the paper. “You know. I was also about to find you, I have something I need to discuss with you.” @Al the Killer

Travis stepped aside to let him walk past. "I did." The last bit sounded... almost concerning, but his own activities were likely what had him on edge. The General still appeared to be in good enough spirits, and he would have expected a more grim demeanor if something was wrong. He stood across the desk from Sebastian and held the paper out to him. It was marked off, the tallies a bit messy but the numbers carefully written to be legible. He genuinely had tried to do a good job. "What is it you needed to discuss with me, Sir?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Now, I understand you just escaped from your.. ordeal.” He spoke carefully, setting the paper aside after looking over it. “But I was hopping that you could tell me a few things about what you know.” The general leaned slightly, looking at the map, his eyes scanning it. Before he looked back at Travis. His expression had changed into something serious, but Travis could also tell he was tired. “We don’t have much information of what we are dealing with inside the forest, it’s too dangerous to step inside, so we don’t know what we are dealing with.” Sebastian sighed slightly, shaking his head. “Frankly? I am not keen on putting my men in danger. Especially dealing with a fae kingdom whose prince had already escaped once.” There was a slight pause, letting that information settle. Watching for his reaction. @Al the Killer

Travis should have expected it. After all, an escaped prisoner would have insight that the army lacked. So did he, but that he couldn't say much without betraying the side he was actually on. He looked at the General thoughtfully. Maybe he should have felt a bit bad for how he was about to lie to him. Sebastian didn't seem like a bad person - just misguided, and not likely to be convinced otherwise any time soon. But he'd have to put thoughts about likability or aside when there were bigger things at stake. "I can't guarantee I'll be much help," he admitted. "I was pretty freaked out the whole time, as you'd expect, and they were speaking this strange language I don't understand." It was still mostly true, in the sense that he'd only started learning it. "I didn't see any weapons like what you have. Swords, sure, but no guns or anything... I don't think they know about gunpowder." Information about weapons would be safe to tell someone who'd already faced off against them, after all - it would be common knowledge for those on the front lines. Still, he furrowed his brows as though trying to remember something useful. "There's the prince, but I don't think I saw the king or anyone like that. Maybe their nobility's small, maybe none of them thought showing up to see a prisoner was worthwhile. They did seem frustrated when I refused any of the food they gave me, so I think the stories about food in the fae realm being unsafe are true. The water is fine - I could only refuse that for so long before I needed it, since I've been here for... I think a week in fae time?" He shrugged briefly, before lifting his head higher. "The woods were pretty disorienting when I escaped. Paths leading to nowhere, times when I felt I was walking in circles, stuff like that. I only got out because I saw the smoke from your camp, so you might want some signal like that to follow back, maybe set up some landmarks during the advance..." @Sad Boi Micha

Sebastian took all of this in, nodding along as he listened to Travis before frowning. It is what he could expect, but it didn’t make it any less frustrating. Still, Sebastian didn’t show it. “It’s more helpful than you think Travis, we only know what’s been told to us by the vultures and by different generals who have been in battle with them, so any little thing is valuable.” He smiled as he said that. “With this information I think I have a plan, but for now you’ve done enough. There should be more food in the center of camp. Why don’t you go ahead and eat?” Sebastian had already started to write what he can. Taking a bite of food every once in a while. He was just going to let Travis go on his way, but stopped mid thought before he could even step out. “Oh. And if you see Blyth, tell him to report to me.” He called out to Travis. “He’s either in his tent, or near the edge of the camp.” @Al the Killer

Travis couldn't predict exactly what the plan in question was. He'd have to see what he could find out, possibly inform Ash of what he'd told them in case he could figure it out. At least if he could figure out what signals Sebastian planned to use, he could tell the fae how to track the army's movements. For now, he simply nodded. He wasn't too hungry yet, but he never refused a meal when he knew shit might go down at any moment. "I think I'll do exactly that," he said, smiling. "Thanks, General. For everything." He turned to leave, pausing as Sebastian spoke again. He nodded. "Yeah, I'll go find him for you first." And if he could overhear snippets of their conversation, all the better for it. He walked out, starting with finding Blyth first of all. Food could wait a few minutes. He started with their tent, poking his head in to see if he could find him there. @Sad Boi Micha

Blyth wasn’t in the tent, no sign of him. Nor seemed to be around the camp. But when asking around a soldier pointed towards the second tent that stood at the edge of the camp. “He usually hangs around there during meals.” The soldier nodded towards the tent. “He goes there first before checking on the captive.” Another huffed. “Thinks he better then us because he has a grasp on magic. Could knock him down a peg or two, see how well his magic—” Though shut up when the soldier gave him a glare before he could say anything else. “What. You think so too.” Was all he grumbled looking back into the fire. @Al the Killer

Travis looked toward the direction of the tent the soldier had indicated, listening to the conersation between the two. He cocked his head to one side as he looked between them. And here he'd thought the Vultures could be immature with their petty rivalries. No wonder Blyth had seemed perpetually annoyed with camp life. "I think he just feels unwelcome here. Or at least out of place. Still, at least we're all working toward the same goal," he commented, keeping his response as neutral as possible. Getting anyone here annoyed at him would not work to his advantage. "Anyway, thanks for pointing me in the right direction. I'll leave you two alone now." He saluted both of them, then walked toward the tent. "Hey Blyth, you here?" he asked, poking his head into the tent to see what was there. @Sad Boi Micha

Blyth was sitting in the middle of the tent back turned to Travis, his hair was now up and an empty plate was tucked near the entrance of the tent. There was a small oriented chest by his side that seemed to have intricate carvings in it. Travis could feel the traces of magic when he poked his head in, Blyth humming to himself, book in front of him as it flipped through pages on its own. However, it quickly disappeared when he heard Travis’ voice. “Yes. I’m here.” He looked over his shoulder at Travis, a questioning look in his eyes. @Al the Killer

Travis's magic sense was still not refined enough to tell what kind of magic Blyth was using, so he leaned sideways to see if he could pick up on anything else. He didn't get the chance, as the book soon vanished. Maybe he should have kept his mouth shut, after all. Questions would be suspicious, so he cut right to the point. "The General wanted to speak with you about something." He shrugged. "He didn't tell me what, but it seemed important." He looked back toward the entrance to the tent. "And I've gotta say, I can see why you thought I wouldn't be alright sharing a tent. Some of the soldiers can be pricks... you have to deal with that on a regular basis?" @Sad Boi Micha

Blyth seemed to mumble a few curses under his breath as Travis mentioned that the general needed to talk to him. Gently pushing the chest away from him, and picking up the closed book keeping it close to him. “You get use to it after all this time.” Blyth sighed, despite the fact that Travis had told him that the general was waiting, he didn’t seem to be in such a hurry. “If I keep my head down they don’t bother me as much.” @Al the Killer

Now Travis really wanted to know what this was all about. "Still, it might get worse. Just... Be careful out there, alright?" he suggested, almost genuinely concerned. "Anyway, I won't keep you. I've gotta get some dinner, myself." As much as he also wanted to check that chest, if he lingered around, it would be suspicious, and the last thing he needed was to be caught snooping. So he walked out instead, and grabbed a meal as promised. He would wait a few more seconds before opting to take a seat somewhere just within normal earshot of the command tent. @Sad Boi Micha

Travis could hear the conversation from his spot, though it seemed Blyth was starting to get frustrated. “I’ve already told you, I’m not doing it.” “Now there is no need for that.” Sebastian snapped, before giving a sigh. “Blyth. I’ve given you a lot of freedom here, allowing you to have a seprate tent to do your magic, not forcing you to have guards around the prisoner when you go talk to it, I even allowed you to be in my camp despite you having no experience. I’ve been generous haven’t I? And all I’m asking is for one thing.” “One thing that could put us in harm.” Blyth shot back. “You don’t know—” “I know that those things won’t attack one of their own. Which is why I suggest that you take the prisoner. Scout for a bit.” Sebastian cut in. “I’ve been lenient with you. Remember that. I expect you and the prisoner to scout tomorrow, and that’s final.” @Al the Killer

So that was the plan. Travis ate as he listened. If scouting would happen tomorrow, it would be best to have the prisoner gone tonight. Tell Ash, free the prisoner. Disrupt their information network, sabotage the weapons, and get out of there. And at some point, Blyth would have to tell her of the plan, meaning the guards would be sent away. He couldn't rely on that; he needed to relay what he'd heard to Ash before he acted, so the prince was prepared to counteract the army's plans. Still, there was something about Blyth... he resolved to be nearby when he spoke to the prisoner. Something told him that was the final piece that needed to fall into place. For now, he finished his meal and returned briefly to his tent, to avoid any suspicions of eavesdropping. After a moment, he would look out, toward the prisoner's tent. Night was beginning to fall and when it did, he would only have a few hours to get everything done. @Sad Boi Micha

The camp started to slow down on activities, and with there being no signs of fae, seemed to have relaxed. With the patrols for the night being switched, and Sebastian staying retired in the command tent. Travis seemed to have his plan. When he poked his head out, Blyth was sending away the guards with a wave of his hand, they seemed to grumble, yet left their post allowing the sorcerer to be alone. The chest from earlier underneath his arm as Blyth ducked inside. @Al the Killer

Travis took a moment to make sure he wasn't watched before stepping out. The patrols were out, but the camp was otherwise quiet. Still, he walked carefully, afraid to make a sound, as though even breathing too loudly would alert the entire encampment to his intent. A thought crossed his mind, though. With the timing of Blyth's earlier arrival in their tent, he had been near it when he had been using the communication stone, which meant one of two things. Either he hadn't sensed him using magic, or he hadn't cared. His mastery was not ideal, but there was just one thing he wanted to try. He focused on the connections around him as he walked, on the shadows he passed through, and tried to will them to conceal his movements as he approached the tent, listening for anything that may have been said or done within. @Sad Boi Micha

For a moment, nothing seemed to happen. Then the shadows seemed to bend to his will, his steps growing quieter, senses growing sharper. With their help, he could hear inside the tent. He could almost feel the presence of magic, both Blyth’s and the prisoner though it was faint. The voice he could hear was that of a young woman, strictly speaking in the fae’s language. Though Travis wasn’t fluent, he could pick up a few words that Vince and Ash had helped taught him. “Deal.. want to.. Home.” Was what he could make out. The tone of voice was upset, begrudging almost. “Please, slow down. I don’t understand.” Blyth sighed. For a moment there was silence, Travis could hear faint scratching, as though something was being written. “Our deal? I’m still going to honor it. I won’t break it.” Another bout of silence, faint scratching. “I know, but I’m just asking you trust me, you’ll be free tomorrow if everything goes right.” There was sounds of faint writing, but then, it stopped. The shadows seemed to grow darker for just a moment as he could feel the fae’s presence more clearly. Then, he heard the fae speak. “Prince Ash?” @Al the Killer

Travis strained slightly to listen, and lost focus after they spoke of a deal. A deal with the fae prisoner did not exactly point toward full loyalty to the human army, and he didn't even want to think of the consequences if Blyth was found out. Somewhat emboldened, he took a step closer to see if he could read the writing. Then Ash's name was spoken and he stopped in his tracks. Of course. If he could sense their magic, they could sense his, and since his came from the prince... He couldn't risk any commotion, and he'd already been more or less found, so he stepped into the tent fully, letting go of the magic that had hidden him. It left him drained, and he nearly lost balance, but it wasn't as bad as the outburst of shadow magic the first time he'd used it. He held up his hands to show he wasn't holding anything and spoke in hushed tones. "Not quite. I'll explain later, but I'm here to help." He glanced at Blyth and prayed silently to anything that might be able to hear that he hadn't just made a terrible mistake in judgment. "Just... keep quiet, and we can make a plan to get you home, Miss." @Sad Boi Micha

Both Blyth and the fae had shot up from where they were sitting, with Blyth being in front of her, she stared down at Ash with a thin-lipped frown. She was tall, almost standing to over Blyth, staring at Travis with eyes that always seem to reflect when the leaves change with the season, skin dark as mahogany with freckles on her face, her braided hair pulled back. The fae woman was wearing a gray tunic shirt with brown pants, cuffs similar to the ones that were fitted to Ash still around her wrist, although they seemed tampered with if he could feel her magic earlier. “You’re here to help?” Blyth repeated in a question, almost wearily. “And why would you do that?” The tone had delved into a harsh whisper. Blyth knew that he couldn’t call the guards, not without incriminating himself, fully aware of how delicate this situation was. Still, he couldn’t help but to be on edge. The fae woman frowned looking between the two, before picking up another paper and pen. “Calm” was written on it, as she handed it to Blyth. It seemed that the two found a way to communicate, even if it was limited. @Al the Killer

Travis kept his voice low but urgent, knowing they couldn't afford to be overheard. "Look, everything in the human and fae realms is connected," he explained. "As a magic user, I'm sure you can feel that, on some level. These worlds depend on each other, and the war is threatening to destroy the balance we all need. I can't stop the war singlehandedly, but I can disrupt this army's plans. It's a start." He rested a hand over the necklace Ash had given him, knowing that the survival of fae and humans wasn't his only reason. Ash had given him his trust long before he'd deserved it, and now he intended to earn it. "What's your plan to get her out of here?" he asked. "If you need a diversion for it, I think I've got an idea."

4:37 AM

@Sad Boi Micha

“I knew I wasn’t crazy, knew something was off.” Blyth mumbled under his breath slightly. But then shook his head, now wasn’t the time for that. “Since the general was so insistent on forcing us into the forest, I was going to make it look like she escaped during my scouting.” They both settled into sitting positions now, etched into the fresh dirt seemed to be a small map of the forest, the fae woman looked down at it, seems they had been trying to come up with a plan for a while now. “However, even that is risky on its own.” Blyth continued after some time. “Already they could blame me on letting her go, and if that happens it won’t turn out well for either of us.” @Al the Killer

"Then your best recourse is to both escape together," Travis said, making sure to address both of them so the fae didn't feel left out, even if he wasn't sure how much English she might understand. "I have one more thing that I need to do here, but I don't think I can do it quietly." He sat down on the ground. Separate from the map of the forest, he drew the layout of the camp with his finger, little more than a rough outline of where things were. He hummed to himself for a moment as he looked down at his handiwork, then at the map of the forest. "After I leave this tent, I'm going to set up... let's say a fireworks show here." He pointed at the spot that marked the weapons tent. "Once you hear it, the camp will be in a panic. It'll draw the guards' attention, but I'll be out of sight before then. That's your cue to run." He looked at the map of the forest. "Does either one of you know a good spot to meet after?" He asked Blyth first, then attempted to translate the question for the fae as well. Granted, he was still clumsy with it and uncertain she even spoke the same dialect, but the attempt was made. Hopefully enough to be understood. @Sad Boi Micha

Her eyebrows furrowed slightly, before she seemed to understand nodding. It seemed the fae woman was able to understand a little, just enough to give information. She pointed towards an area that seemed to be by what looked like markings for a river. One not too far from camp. “Okay, what else is it you have to do here?” Blyth questioned. Not looking from the map. And why are you helping us?” @Al the Killer

Travis looked down at the map, memorized the location she was pointing at, and nodded. "Then that will do. Make sure you stay well-hidden; I'm sure you're both very skilled, but I don't want you two to be stuck facing an army on your own." Then Blyth asked his questions. Travis didn't take his eyes off the map, pausing to think for a moment before answering. "I've made my mistakes in the past," he said. "I want to set things right, and I want to prove that Prince Ash's trust in me was not misplaced. Besides, I can't just leave you two here with them. If the humans manage to defeat the fae, do you really think sorcerers won't be their next target, Blyth?" He stood back up and stretched for a moment. "As for the rest of my task... you have plenty of gunpowder here and an even number of cannons. The ideal amount of both for this army to have is zero. I'm gonna lower their ability to harm the fae so we don't have to worry about as many casualties. On either side, if the General is smart about it." The less detail he went into, he figured the better off they'd be in the event that something went wrong. "Just run when you hear the explosions... so, we've got a plan or what?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Yeah, it’s a plan.” Blyth nodded before turning to the woman. “Willow, we need to get the cuffs off.” The fae— Willow, nodded and handed over her wrists. The cuffs clinking ever so slightly. Gently, Blyth took both of her wrists and a soft glow emitted from his hands. Travis felt how warm his magic was. Blyth was mumbling under his breath, having to rely on the spoken components of magic more, having to keep focus. Then, the cuffs fell away useless on the ground. Willow smiled slightly rubbing her wrist as she spoke “Thank you” @Al the Killer

Travis glanced over his shoulder, but they are still being left alone by the guards. Of course they'd welcome the excuse to not be around the fae. His attention turned back toward Willow and Blyth once the cuffs came off. "Aliso rivo lune," he told Willow, then focused once more on pulling the shadows toward himself for concealment. He snuck out of the tent and toward the weapons tent. From there, he knew he had little time. As quietly as he could manage, he picked up the coil of fuse used for the cannons, then turned the cannons themselves so that their barrels faced each other in pairs. It took a moment to work out how to load them but, once he did, he cut several equal lengths of fuse. Most led to the cannons, but one dipped into the barrel of gunpowder. "Please work," he whispered, acutely aware that this would be a big explosion and if he miscalculated, he might not make it out in time. He bit his lower lip and found a flint to light the first spark with. @Sad Boi Micha

“Aliso rive lune.” Willow softly responded with a smile. The shadows seemed to blanket over Travis once again, allowing him to quietly make his way into the tent without any prying eyes. Anyone who got close enough would’ve just feel a faint chill as he passed them. The night was silent save from the idle chatter of camp, and the fire that sat in the middle. The first try didn’t light the fuse, nor did the second. The shadows seemed to shift with each movement, the faint sparks causing the darkness to pull back slightly. Then the third attempt, the fuse hissed with life as the flame ate away at it. @Al the Killer

Panic had begun to rise after the first couple of failed attempts. Then at last, success! He set the ends down carefully, not wanting to extinguish the flame as it made its way along the length of fuse. Faster than he expected, and the shadows' avoidance of the sparks did not escape his attention either. He did not have much time. Cursing under his breath, he turned to see if he could slip out beneath the back wall of the tent, but it had been well constructed, and was too sturdy for that. There was only the door. He stuck to the edges of the tent, willing the shadows to gather around him as he made his way to the door, slower than he would have liked. Once he reached it, he cast one last look at the fuses to see how far they had burned already, then turned and ran. He would have to take his chances on whether the stealth he'd managed would hold up now. @Sad Boi Micha

The shadows gathered around him as he ran out, sensing his need for stealth. Travis managed to make it away from the tent in the dark night. Thats when the explosion happened. Travis felt himself get knocked off his feet, landing hard on the ground. The shadows scattering away from him like rats. But no one seemed to have noticed him just appearing, as yells of fire was heard throughout the camp. The sound of men running either towards or away. “Someone put the damn fire out!” Travis heard Sebastian bark over the chaos. “What the hell even happened?” Looking up, his vision blurred as he felt the heat of the flames. For a moment, he saw a fox staring at him, almost with the same eyes that Willow had, before it turned and ran for the forest. @Al the Killer

He ran, then he flew, and absolutely not in an intentional manner. The ground rushed at him, knocking the air from his lungs upon collision. For a moment, it was all a blur, smoke and a persistent ringing in his ears that made it harder to make out the chaos in the camp. He lifted his head and blinked, spotting the fox. He had to follow it. Covering his mouth with one hand to suppress any coughing, he stood up. There was no time to focus on the pain, or the fear of encroaching flames. He glanced back, but nobody was paying attention to him. He gritted his teeth and ran in the same direction as the fox. Once he broke past the tree line, he paused behind a wide oak - he assumed it was oak, but his own knowledge of tree identification was admittedly rather limited - and risked a glance back. Just to make sure he was not being followed. Escaping and setting up a liaison point was pointless if he'd just end up leading the enemy to it. Only once he was sure the coast was clear would he run to the spot by the river. He could still feel the heat on his back despite being further from the flames, and the ringing, while it had died down slightly, lingered still. @Sad Boi Micha

The forest was still, not a soul in sight. The fox ran into the underbrush, would slow down slightly to give Travis a glance and allow him to catch up before disappearing again, coat shining with the light of the moon. After getting further from the camp, the forest seemed peaceful even. Travis made it to the rushing river, the fox was gone but there stood Willow. The hem of her pants were rolled up and she waded in the water, feeling the coldness on her skin. Looking back, she smiled at Travis. “Thank you” She spoke softly. Quietly almost like any noise will break the peacefulness of the forest. That silence didn’t last long as Blyth came from the foliage, stopping short of seeing the two, eyeing them as though to look for injuries. “Everyone okay?” He finally asked after glancing behind his shoulder. @Al the Killer

Travis caught up and caught his breath, smiling back at the fae. They'd actually made it. He wouldn't say they were out of danger yet, but it was progress. Right now, he wanted nothing more than a dip in the water to cool down, but he wasn't ready to relax that much just yet. He could hear clearly enough now. "You don't need to thank me," he said. "I just did what seemed right." He looked back at Blyth. "I think we're fine. I might be a little burned, but I'll live. Are you alright?" He looked past Blyth, just to be absolutely sure he wasn't followed. "I should update Prince Ash on the situation," he said. "It will just be a minute, but would you mind keeping watch? I don't want anyone from the camp sneaking up on us." While they were some distance away, it wasn't as far as he would have liked. @Sad Boi Micha

“I’m fine, I don’t think they will notice us missing until the fire is put out.” Blyth sat down on a rock that was at the edge of the river, looking around at the forest. “Uh yeah, I’ll keep watch.” Willow seemed to settle beside Blyth pulling her knees to her chest as she sat on the round rock resting her chin on her knees watching the river. As Travis reached for the stone he could feel the warmth from it. “Travis?” Ash’s voice rang in his head, he could hear the concern that echoed through. “A scout said that there was an explosion. What’s going on?” There was a small pause before Ash spoke again. “Are you okay?” @Al the Killer

Travis stood by the river as he picked up the stone, its warmth indicating that Ash had already begun to reach out. He smiled at the welcome voice that sounded in his head. Something stirred in his chest at the clear concern, but there was no time to be sentimental. This was a status update, not a personal call. "That explosion was my doing," he admitted. "Given the construction of their cannons, there was no quiet way to sabotage them. I'm safe, and I used the distraction to extract their fae prisoner and a sorcerer who is contracted to her." He could only hope he hadn't made a misjudgment in trusting both of them. He rubbed the back of his neck with his free hand, but quickly winced and pulled away. The flesh was still sensitive, and the mere touch of his hand had made it feel like that spot was on fire. "The army here does not know much about the layout of the forest, and were going to rely on their prisoner for scouting it out. My information is limited, I'll admit, but Blyth has been with them longer and worked more closely with their General, despite being unwelcome by the other soldiers. He's likely to know even more, if we can provide safety for the two of them." He looked toward the light from the raging fire that blazed on in the distance. "Preferably before the fire goes out and they notice we're gone." @Sad Boi Micha

“Alright, I’ll have two scouts escort you guys back to the castle, just stay there.” The stone cut out, Ash must’ve been talking to someone else, but was still warm in his hand. The connection not fading. “They should be there soon.” Travis could still see the fire raged on, they probably still had a few more minutes before the chaos died down, just enough to get away. Blyth was watching the bellowing smoke with keen eyes, thinking. “I need to go Travis, I have to meet with the council, make sure they know you succeeded.” There was a small pause before the prince spoke again, a small moment of what Ash could say. “I’ll see you soon.” With that, the stone grew cold, the faint warmth leaving. Willow glanced over to Travis, having been watching him since he had started talking to Ash, as though she was curious simply. “So, what’s going to happen now?” Blyth finally spoke up. Shifting his body so he was facing Travis. @Al the Killer

In that brief pause, Travis held his breath, his mind turning over an infinite would of possibilities for what could be said next. Ash's next words, though predictable, left a dull ache he couldn't quite understand. He let out that breath and nodded. "Yeah, see you soon," he agreed as the stone cooled instantly. He slipped it back into his pocket and turned toward Blyth. "The prince is sending a couple of scouts to bring us back to the castle. We'll be safe there." He smiled. "So if you're gonna betray us, do it now," he joked, fairly certain Blyth wouldn't. He looked further into the forest. The small rest he'd gotten earlier hadn't been much, and the adrenaline from their escape had begun to wane. Still, he kept a sharp eye out for the promised scouts. @Sad Boi Micha

Blyth just gave a tired smile. “Dont worry, I have no plans too.” It didn’t take long, seems they were closer than expected as two fae’s stepped out from the trees. Travis recognized them as the two who fought each other during training. Giving a nod to Travis, they looked over at Willow speaking to her. Even with him not knowing what’s going on in the conversation, the glances towards Blyth was clear. Trying to figure out how much to trust them. And seems Blyth knew as well, as he ducked his head slightly. But Willow shook her head going over to the sorcerer and pulled him up by the arm. “Follow us.” The scouts soon spoke, motioning towards where the castle was heading through. One lead the way, while the other was behind making sure that no one would ambush from behind. When the kingdom edge came to view, Travis could see Ash waiting with a few guards. Pacing slightly before stopping seeing the small group. @Al the Killer

Even if he couldn't for the life of him remember their faces, a rush of relief flooded over Travis to see a pair of familiar faces. He walked over to Blyth while the scouts spoke with Willow. "I'm sure she's vouching for you right now," he assured him quietly. "Don't worry, they're reasonable." Then it was time to go and he followed along, looking ahead with anticipation. It wasn't long before they reached the spot he'd last seen Ash, and where Ash now stood. He quickened his steps ever so slightly until he stood in front of the Prince, fully aware of the foolish grin on his own face. "Told you I could do it," he said in breach of courtly manners, because he'd never been good with emotional moments and a boastful 'I told you so' was far better than expressing his own worries. Still, after a moment, he did manage, "it's good to see you again." @Sad Boi Micha

Ash just couldn’t help but to grin at this, at the break in decorum, at Travis’ words. “It’s good to see you again as well.” He said, his sharp eyes softening slightly. Before looking over to the rest of the group. Willow and Blyth were bowing. Showing their respect to the crow prince. He frowned slightly, looking to Travis before stepping closer to them. Speaking first to Willow, in quiet tones before nodding and turning towards Blyth. Who wouldn’t look up at the prince. “I welcome you to the Croes territory, and to the kingdom of Hiloew. I am Prince Ash. Willow has told me you protected her as well as you can? As well as made a deal?” While Ash’s tone was steady, a small hint of curiosity could be heard. “You may speak freely with me.” Blyth swallowed hard, looking up at the prince. “Yes, I tried to protect her the best of my ability. And I willingly entered a pact with her to get her home, in exchange for learning from her.” Ash didn’t let Blyth see his emotions. But Travis could tell he was pleased by this information as he couldn’t hide the small twitch of a smile. “Very well then, I grant you safety in our kingdom, I shall allow the both of you to rest before I ask more questions, the guards shall escort you both to the guest chambers.” He then turned his attention to Travis. “You have earned a rest as well, though I’m afraid that must wait for just a moment longer in order for us to discuss things over, if you’re up to it.” @Al the Killer

Travis stepped aside to let Ash pass, listening to the conversation to see what he might be able to understand. Small bits and pieces, though the low volume made it harder to understand. Then the conversation was over, and he couldn't help but perk up at the mention of rest... After a discussion, but that was to be expected. He nodded. "Yeah, sure thing," he said. He was still awake enough for that, at least. He glanced back toward the direction he'd come from, but they were far enough for things to seem peaceful, save for the smoke above the trees. "Now, are we all ready to head back?" he asked, since he couldn't be sure how long it would remain quiet. There should undoubtedly be changes in the battle plans, now that their scout was gone, and he couldn't be sure whether the human army would try to push forward with their limited knowledge and resources or wait for reinforcements. @Sad Boi Micha

Ash gave a nod before walking back to the castle, in step with Travis. As Willow and Blyth were about to be lead away, the fae woman gave one last bow to the prince, and a nod to Travis. The rest of the walk almost seemed silent, Ash’s thoughts running on repeat in his head as they got closer. Every once in a while his dark eyes would glance over to Travis, studying him almost, worried mainly of injuries. But as they got to the door he took a deep breath entering. Instead of the council meeting consisting with the other kingdoms, Travis saw that it was Queen Lilith sitting still in the seat at the head of the table expression unreadable, Vince who gave Travis a warm smile, and a tanned skin fae he hasn’t seen before. He stood tall in a black and white uniform with a sword at his waist, white hair neatly tied back, sharp dark eyes, as clear wings that resembled a dragonfly twitched as he studied Travis. Vince and the other fae both bowed to Ash, as Lilith gave a nod for Travis to sit down. Ash remained standing, “Travis has stayed true to his word, sabotaging their major weapons, and recovered an ally we thought was lost, and a human sorcerer.” He paused looking over at the map splayed out on the table, a frown on his face. “With this, we have our own opening.” “I would like to hear from Travis about what he saw, and about this human sorcerer that he brought with us.” The new fae spoke up, turning towards Travis with arms crossed. “After all, every little bit of information is needed now.” @Al the Killer

Travis could tell the adrenaline from earlier had fully faded because his back felt like it was burning again. He wouldn't have described it as pain, so much as irritating sensitivity to every movement his shirt made against his skin, and an itchiness that paired poorly with the feeling that it could peel away at the slightest provocation. Minor burns, if he had to guess, but still something he hoped to check with a healer later on. Save for the tightness in his jaw, he tried to hide it. At least it distracted from the soreness where he'd fallen on his hands and knees. He followed Ash into the castle, this time remembering to bow as he saw Queen Lilith. He smiled back at Vince, resisting the temptation to offer two thumbs up in a situation that felt decidedly too formal for such gestures. Instead, he took the cue to sit down, wincing with a sharp intake of breath as his back touched the chair. He leaned forward for the sake of his own sanity, folding his hands on the table's surface. He described his arrival in detail, his meeting and eventual alliance with Blyth, the layout of the camp, and even the supplies they traveled with. At the end, he summarized a few key points. "Their numbers are small, but seem experienced. Their General, Sebastian, believed me easily, but I doubt we can rely on him being so trusting in the future. Human cannons can be sabotaged by turning their barrels to face one another and firing both at the same time, and gunpowder is generally kept together, and can be ignited with a bit of flame. They are being sent without much knowledge of the fae realm, and were relying on scouting efforts," he explained. "I only told their General what he expected to hear about your realm - it is disorienting, dangerous and easy to get lost in. I mean, that goes for any forest, but the human fear of fae isn't exactly rational." @Sad Boi Micha

“Yes, but thanks to your efforts it bought us invaluable time.” Ash spoke up, looking down at the map. “They can’t afford to come into the forest now, not when they are vulnerable like this. If we use this to our own advantage, we may be able to start the process to end this war peacefully.” “If I may, Prince Ash.” The new fae, Alais, spoke up interrupting the prince. “I know you aim to bring peace among the two realms, much like other rules before you. But might I suggest that it’s far too risky for such a move.” Alais crossed his arms, before letting out a sigh. “As royal adviser, I urge you to reconsider your stance. We don’t even have a means of communicating with their own leader without putting the last of the royal family, or anyone else in danger.” Ash frowned at this. “But the balance. You can’t just want to put everyone in danger like that!” “And you can’t let your judgement become clouded. Especially due to your own feelings.” Alais snapped back.”there are many other ways to mend the balance. Ways that kept it from coming undone. Whether that be closing the realm completely. Or fighting back and forcing them to back off. You may be acting general, but you are not yet king, the decision is not yours to make.” “You can’t shut the realm off completely.” Vince suddenly spoke up. He had been silent, watching the proceedings but he frowned. “That causes a new danger to arise. And what about those who live outside the realm, those who live among mortals?” Vince was trying to choose his next words carefully, looking from everyone before looking to Queen Lilith. “My queen, you’ve seen first hand what happens when we ignore balance. It’s the reason I lost my home, my family. And I do not want to see that happen here. Ash may not have the crown yet, but he cares about his people, and those outside of this realm. And I trust him enough to follow his judgment.” @Al the Killer

Travis looked over at Alais as he spoke. It was risky, but they had an advantage, too. And if the realm were to be closed off, what would become of him, or Kathleen? Or Anthony, who carried both fae and human blood? He couldn't speak for the fae, but he had seen firsthand what happened to humans when they became divided. The less people understood, the more violent they became. He would know - he'd been caught up in it all, once. Isolation would be, in effect, a mass sacrifice of the fae who lived in the human realm. And he couldn't be sure it wouldn't work both ways around, in which case he wouldn't be safe, either. But humans were the aggressors in this conflict. What right did he really have to speak up on the matter? He gave Vince a grateful look as the draconic fae spoke up. "If I may speak up for a second?" he said, looking toward Queen Lilith. "Isolation never works as planned in conflicts involving humans. They will see it as an escalation, and fight harder to force their way into the fae realm. Their fear is based on a lack of understanding, and cutting them off from the balance altogether will only feed into that." He sighed. "And if there's one thing we - as humans - are good at, it is unfortunately destroying what we fear. I get it if you don't want to trust my judgment, but Ash has been on the front lines of battle, himself. He knows what he is talking about." @Sad Boi Micha

Alais was about to speak, but Lilith cleared her throat rising, causing the fae to back off. staring at his queen. “It is clear my son has great faith in his plan. And I see no reason to doubt him.” She gave a nod to the prince. “As queen, I look forward to seeing your resolve. Alais, for now on the crown prince shall be given the chance for his plan, and you shall help him.” “As you wish, my queen.” Alais nodded, not daring to disobey Lilith, and Ash seemed to relax slightly. “I suggest we draw this meeting to a close then, and give those who came back a chance to rest.” “Yes, that sounds good.” Lilith spoke up. Everyone was getting up, bowing to the wind queen as they took their leave. “Ash, can I talk to you alone?” Ash glanced at Travis before nodding. Staying behind. “Of course.” Vince stood beside Travis, leaving with him the doors to the meeting room closing behind them. “You did good.” Vince spoke. Glancing at him. @Al the Killer

Travis shared that glance with Ash, wondering if he should offer to stay behind. But the word 'alone' was pretty unambiguous, to say the least. Besides, he had to admit that the idea of rest right now was irresistible. He nodded, attempted a reassuring smile, and stood up to leave with Vince. The stinging and burning flared up again with the movement. He was sure he'd be alright, but for now, it was irritating, and he wasn't sure he could afford the distraction. His training had only just begun, after all, and he had promised to help protect Ash. "Thanks," he told Vince as they walked out. "I think I'm getting decent at this whole magic thing, too." He rolled his shoulders back and winced. Maybe there was one more stop before he could rest. "Do you have any apothecaries around here or something? I think I got a little burned in that explosion. Nothing big, but I should do something about it if I'm gonna get any sleep." He looked around the corridor as he spoke, at the rest of the fae returning to their daily lives. Maybe this was his home now. It certainly felt that way more than anywhere he had been in the mortal realm. His place here was a far cry from the begrudging cooperation he'd had with the Vultures, at least. @Sad Boi Micha

Vince glanced over to Travis when he mentioned burns. “Yeah, let’s go get you fixed up while Ash is talking to the queen.” Vince lead Travis deeper into the castle, past the kitchen and near where the training area was, but instead of turning for it continued on straight. A large wooden door with carvings of vines and different plants, opening it and heading inside Travis could hear fragments of a conversation in the fae language. “I told you to take it easy. But didn’t listen to me.” A stern voice carried through. “Now lay down and rest.” “Oh boy. She does not sound pleased.” Vince sighed slightly. “Our healer here is kind, but can also be very strict.” The small little medical office seemed busy, with soldiers resting in an adjacent room, herbs laying out on different desks in the small room where the two stood, a tall bookshelf to the left with thick tomes that seemed well read. “That’s only if you don’t listen to her.” The voice of Kathleen was heard. She looked up from a book she was currently reading at a desk, hair pulled back. Vince smiled seeing Kathleen, wrapping his arms around her. “When have I not listen? Except for maybe, a couple of times where I didn’t.” This response caused Kathleen to just roll her eyes with a playful smile. With that the fae woman in question came out of the other room. She was a short woman, with black hair cut short, eyes that seemed to resemble embers, olive toned skin. She had wings of red and orange and purple resembling a sunset. She came close to Travis, an aura of warmth coming from her. Before she looked at Vince who instantly gave a nervous smile. “Well, I’ll leave you to it!” He said as he let go of Kathleen, quickly backing out. He paused to look to Travis. “I’ll let Ash know where you are.” Was the last thing he said before completely leaving. “Troublemaker.” The fae woman mumbled in her own tongue. Before looking at Travis. “You must be.. Travis. Yes?” @Al the Killer

Travis paused by the door, taking in the sight of the carvings along its frame before following Vince into the medical office. "Pretty sure healers have to be strict," he commented to Vince, mildly amused at the untold story that came with Kathleen's response. "Have you tried cooperating with her? And hi, Kathleen." As the dragon fae backed out of the room, he turned toward the new face. Judging from the voice - same as the one he'd overheard through the wall - she had to be the healer in question. She hardly seemed intimidating enough to warrant Vince's hasty retreat, but he'd been wrong before. "I am," he confirmed. "And you must be..." He trailed off, realizing he hadn't caught a name from Vince. "...the healer," he finished, more awkwardly than intended. "Sorry. If you're too busy, I can come back later." @Sad Boi Micha

“Pyria. You may call me Pyria.” Pyria hummed as she went for one of the messy desks, grabbing a stack of papers. When she heard Travis say he could come back later, she stopped and narrowed her eyes. “Sit. It’s my duty to look over everyone.” Kathleen watched as Pyria looked over Travis before the medic just shook her head. Something was said in the fae language, more than likely ingredients as Kathleen had gotten up to grab them. “It’s just first degree. Minor. But this will help the healing process.” Pyria said glancing at Kathleen as she set everything on the desk working on the salve. @Al the Killer

The command was enough that Travis immediately sat in the closest chair he could find. No wonder Vince had seemed mildly intimidated. He sat as still as possible, not even wincing if the burns were touched. As he'd suspected, it was nothing serious, but even a minor injury was better off treated than ignored. Considering the explosion he'd set off, it seemed he had gotten off easy after all. He turned his head to see what Kathleen was doing as Pyria confirmed what he'd thought. "Alright. Is it a one-time thing, or should I reapply it every now and then? Anything else I should be doing?" He was unfamiliar with the treatments for burns, so the more he could learn now, the better. He eyed the ingredients, trying to see if any were common enough in the human world to name. "And what's in it, anyway?" @Sad Boi Micha

“Apply it, and then wrap a bandage around the area.” Pyria didn’t look up as Kathleen placed a small wooden container in her hand. She was gentle when applying the thick paste, her touch light but firm. “Hypericum perforatum, it will sooth the nerves and irritated skin, as well as some ginger roots. Helps with the pain. Apply it once a day until the redness is gone. From how it is right now..” She paused giving a hum. “I would say in three days or so.” She glanced up at Travis after she was done, stepping back, letting Kathleen step in as she did the bandages. Kathleen gave him a smile as she placed them, not doing them to tight but just enough that it would protect the wound. Before placing a lid on the container handing it to Travis. “I’m glad I came in at the right time.” Ash’s voice filled the room as he opened the door. A small smile on his face as he gave a nod to Pyria who was already busy once again sorting papers. “I take it everything is okay?” @Al the Killer

Travis leaned forward to let her work. Some of the relief was immediate, if only for the cooling effects of the paste on his skin. "Sounds like a plan, Doc," he said, sitting back up once the bandages had been secured into place. "I'll let you know if anything else comes up." He set the container in his lap and sat back up. He pulled his shirt back up over his shoulders as Ash walked into the room. He smiled at him, still working on securing the buttons. He stretched his arms over his head before picking up the container of paste. "All good," he assured him, standing up. "How'd things go with the Queen?" @Sad Boi Micha