ROLEPLAY HQ - unsure-deal

He could smell the ash and blood, as Aidan ran, his heart beat quickly. He kept running through the forest, his sister right beside him. The day had finally come, of flames and destruction, the day he dreaded since he first heard of his ill fate in life. He wanted more time, he felt powerless like this running alongside his sister. At least till they were stopped, by the king's soldier pointing their swords at them to attack. Luckily his sister was quick to act and ensnared the man, trapping them in the trees above. They rushed away, getting a good distance, almost reaching the port town just outside the woods where they live. “Aidan hold onto this, we need to split up, these bastards want me and if they catch you...” she said calmly to her brother, handing him a book covered in cloth. “We must part ways for now, we will meet again” she reaches out to touch his cheek, “get onto the first boat you see and travel far, the boat will take you to where you need to go!" She placed a gentle kiss on his head, making Aidan tear up, his sister had been there for him his whole life. When his sister foretold his future when he was a baby. She, unlike their parents, was willing to face it with him, took him in and taught him all she knew. Aidan wasn't the best witch, he could barely cast a spell. His magic was weak unlike his sister's, the only talent he had was his medicine, potions, and cooking. His sister didn't have any talent in cooking so he had to step up or he had to eat weird stuff.

7:07 PM

He looked at her and looked ready to say something when an arrow flew past them, making their eyes widen and they rushed off. Aidan didn't want to part ways with her but trusted her words and wisdom. His heart heavy, he ran the other way, towards the port city, while his sister rushed deeper into the woods. The soldiers followed both of them splitting up, and Aidan could feel them behind him. An arrow flew past him, as he ran again, then another till finally one hit his shoulder, but Aidan kept going, not stopping as he entered the city of seas. He ran through the city, he was quick to lose them as he turned and twisted down alleyways. Thankfully for all the times he had to rush around, he finally made it to where he needed to be, by the boats. He needed to escape. Stowaway. He quickly looked around till he spotted a boat, he was quick. Not wanting to be spotted by guards that were most likely searching the city for him. He stealthy moved towards one of the ships, looking at it for a moment before sneaking into it. He looked around a bit before hiding inside one of the crates on board. It didn't have much inside, so he guessed many of it was taken off the ship or eaten already. Or it might be used to hold something. He wasn't sure, what he was sure is, it's his crate to hide in till this boat reached its destination wherever it was.

7:07 PM

@Vox

The Sapphire had been moored for two days, unloaded of supplies sold for drink. No one was onboard enjoying what comforts land brought before the morning. Except Echo. He'd clung to the rocky shore and returned to the boat to sleep, having no interest in the raucous party in the hotel. No one disturbed him until morning, when soldiers were knocking on his quarters door, making him groan and get up. Stumbling to the door he barely got it open before the men were shoving into the room. "Aye?! Get out!" His back hit the door frame. He'd barely had anything worn, just shorts and a large shawl over his shoulders of blue green scales. "We are looking for a criminal. Small man with a book. We need to examine your vessel." The captain demanded and Echo rolled his eyes, holding the front edge of the fabric about his shoulders. "Very well. I'll lead." Echo waved a hand and lead down into the lower floors of the ship. Most of it was empty, his men still onland, and down in the hold was a few remaining barrels of food and fresh water. One was out of place from the night before.... Echos eyes trailed on it and he hopped to sit on top, "Here ya are gents. No stowaways eh?" He grinned a wide smile that split dark skin, rubbing his jaw line. He knew the main might be in the barrel beneath him. He happily led the soldiers off the ship, snagging his coat and sword, and walking back into the cargo hold. "Aye. Mate. Get out the barrel." He hit the side of the barrel with the flat of his sword. "If I'm woken up at four in the morning you're up now if you're in there." Echo was a large man; standing 6'2" and built for the life he'd made for himself. The Sapphire was his, the crew was his, and he wanted to know why the hell there was a man in his barrels. Dark hair kept in braids reached just beneath his shoulder blades, pinned with gold clasps. Grey eyes were bright in comparison to deep tanned complexion and dark lashes. "You can get out or I'll tip it over." <@26426685352050

7:53 PM

6891>

7:53 PM

@kramptan

Aidan during the night felt his body feeling weak, he had lost blood but luckily the arrow had been a plug. He needed to remove the arrow and patch himself up, if he was good at spells he would heal himself but no... He wasn't good at it. He sighs softly as he shuffles around, he couldn't remove the cloak he wore unless he moved the arrow. So he looked at the book and unclothed it, he couldn't see what the book was but didn't think much of it he needed to survive. He took a breath and reached behind him and pulled the arrow out, sobbing in pain. It hurt, but he couldn't stop; he worked on patching himself up with what he had. It was sloppy, his hand was too shaky and he couldn't move his arm well since his shoulder was buring. He felt tired from all that and wanted to sleep. That was till he heard sounds, had he fallen asleep? He didn't know. Clutching the book tightly to his chest he waited. Unknown to him as he waited and listened, some blood had dropped onto the book, heating voices and men moving things around. Hearing one of them, Aidan believes it's the one sitting on-top of him, saying no stowaways. He heard them leave and let out a soft sigh that didn't last long as he heard the man come back. He held his breath, clutching his eyes tight and book tighter. Hoping he would move into a different box. "No! Don't... I-Im coming out... Please" he says, as he slowly puts the book down, and removes the top from where he was hiding. Using one hand not wanting to hurt his shoulder and the sight that greeted him made his eyes widen and mutter "damn it". He placed the barrel top to the side, the book was by his feet.

8:30 PM

The young male was average, 5'5, he had a small frail looking frame, his pale skin was dirty from ash and mud, his hair white and pale white lashes framed around and brightening the purple colour of his eyes, he was pale. His clothing was dirty and dark, hugging him tightly under his dark cloak. His hands are just as dirty, and rough from hard work in his own field. "I-Im sorry..." He says gently, his body felt heavy "I-I didn't mean to cause any problems for you. I-I just needed to hide for the night."

8:31 PM

@Vox

"They're huntin' you. Why?" He barked the words with a certain crossness, holding the sword so the point was trained on Aiden's face. His eyes raked over the small man with suspicion and barely concealed curiosity. He blinked as the man slurred through an explanation, hardly understandable, then buckled at the knees going down. Echo dropped the sword with a clatter to catch him to keep his head from cracking the floor. Aiden would wake in a room, staring at paneled ceiling, a thick quilt about his chest. A bandage was packed and wrapped over his wounded shoulder, feeling quite numb and comfortable laying on his side. The floor was covered by a plush red and white rug, an ornate wood table ladened with books, papers, and drink. He had always been a collector to the point of obsessive. The back wall was windows, covered in thick drapes to block out the morning so Aidan could sleep. In a crack of light, Echo had been skimming through the book in fascination. It all was nonsense to his eyes; twisting mazes of ink without origin to Echo. It didn't even resemble language to him. What's so important about this.... His crew were finishing loading their orders and he'd retreated to his quarters under his illness. They'd all seen his condition and often wanted him to rest rather than assist. Lifting a wine glass to his lips he set his cheek on a fist resting on his arm, flipping the book. He kept hoping it'd suddenly make sense.... The boat creaked as it bumped against the dock, outside loud from shouting and the movement of barrel and stock. "Strange..." He snapped the book shut leaving it on his desk, repouring himself wine. His spine was aching and his ears tight to bursting with pressure, and he knew he'd be needing to turn soon lest his health deteriorate. Echo had hidden his skin, tucked into a secret compartment in the ceiling of his bed compartment, not knowing if he could trust the human around it. His crew was one thing. They'd seen his form before and the

9:20 PM

damage that came..... Echo sunk back into his chair with a soft sigh. @kramptan

The Witch as he slept and was being patched up, muttered out for his sister. His dreams were filled with fire as he watched his home burn to the ground, tears running down his face, he watched as guards stood in front of his home with torches and turned to him. Aidan took a step back scared as they moved towards him, his sister behind him calling his name making him run towards it. Only to feel many hands grab onto him and pull him back towards the house as his sister runs away. He turned to see the hands belonging to the guards as they burned. Outside the dream as the book began to move and shake. He felt the warm flames on his skin trying to burn him alive, before finally waking up with a loud gasp. His heart was pounding as he stared up at the ceiling. He was confused, where was he, he looked around the room or tried to. His body still felt heavy but where he laid it felt warm and soft. So he didn't seem to mind, at the moment. “Sister…” he says out loud his voice soft yet rough, he closed his eyes till he remembered the book. His sister intrusted him with the book, he couldn't mess it up. He slowly tried to get up, to find the book. Only to cry out in pain when he moved too suddenly agitating his wound, that even the numbing couldn't numb it. “Book… where's the book” he called out, which made the book fly towards where he was. It was weak since the bound was weak. “Where am I…”

9:45 PM

@Vox

He startled as the book fell off his desk with a soft thump, and he bent to return it to the table but paused hearing the panic. "Easy. The books here." He set the book next to Aidan on the bed. "You passed out. Go easy on your shoulder." He advised, gently. "You're in my quarters on the Sapphire. The boat you hid on. We have departed shore. You're alright." Echo's voice was low, knowing the other may be sensitive to the sounds. He'd not fully understood the extent of the wound until the man had collapsed in his arms. "You bled alot. You're not gonna feel too good." He paused near Aiden by the edge of the bed, "Try to get some sleep." Unhooking the curtain he let it fall leaving him in comfortable warm, darkness. Echo stepped out of his quarters and locked it behind him, blinking hard in the bright sunshine. His Quartermaster stepped aside to relent the wheel to his captain. The sea was flat pretty blue, behind them the bright cliffs of the port slowly disappeared. "Full sheet and forward! We head for deep sea!" He smiled seeing the sails fall open with a rumble of wind, carrying them out. His mind lingered on the odd fugitive in his quarters. That book..... @kramptan

Aidan looked up at Echo, his eyes filled with fear at the sight of the large man. He could barely see very well, as he collapsed back onto the bed. His eyes remained on the large man as he spoke. He slowly nodded his head, and in a low voice, "th-thank you" he wasn't sure what the man had plans for him as the curtain shut as the tall man left him in the dark. He took a deep breath to calm himself, the space he was in was dark. He listened to the man's foot steps, with each step making him nervous till the man finally left the room. It was silent at least it was silent, only now did he hear the sound of the waves outside and the people's feet and shouts outside the room, slowly sound came as he didn't hear the pounding of his heart ringing his ears. Aidan was still scared, he was drifting away from what he once knew as home. Leaving his sister and home behind, even though she told him to, he couldn't help but feel shame that rushed through him as tears fell from his cheek. "Don't be stupid Aidan... Grow a pair you need to survive," he mutters trying not to sob, and close his eyes his hand reaching towards the book and bring it to his chest as he laid in the bed. He needed to figure out what to do, but first he needed to heal there wasn't anything he could do till he was healed, the man seemed nice but who knows how long that would last. Aidan looked down at the book, he couldn't see well in the dark but he had a feeling he knew what the book was, he just hoped it wasn't. He hoped, that because it was here it wouldn't make it the book cause... Why is it here if it was. He should be with his sister. @Vox

To the evening meals were made and shared amongst crew, able to enjoy the broaching night on the main deck. Alone in a placid sea of dark water, the moon lighting the surface to silver. A plate in hand he pushed open the door to his quarters, setting the dish on his table. Smoked fish and fruit didn't last long on board so he was sure to bring Aiden some. "Are you alive?" He sunk into his chair, toeing off his boots with a soft satisfied sound. "I've brought you food." Setting his head back against the headrest, Echo closed his eyes to doze. He was aware should Aiden move, but for all intents he looked asleep. He had questions but he knew to wait until the man was at least somewhat healed. He wasn't about to exhaust him further.... The roll of the ship was subtle but comforting to him, mind lingering on the feeling of swimming. The pull of the current and tide. Song of the water and the pressure tightening down, sinking through the dark. @kramptan

Aidan had been lured to sleep by the waves and rocking of the ship. He was sound asleep when the captain returned to his quarters, when the man called Aiden didn't speak as he slowly woke up. His eyes blinking awake. His body felt better, or at least less stiff as it normally did the bed felt comfortable. He could smell the fish, that made his stomach grumble a bit, as he slowly sat up. He blinked a bit more and looked out of the hole in the wall bed, he was being careful and silent as he moved. His shoulder felt good, unknown to Aiden it was healing a bit faster than normal. He looked at the man for a moment noticing he had gone to sleep before moving towards the plate and taking a bite out of it. It tasted heavenly, or maybe he was just starving and it tasted good. He honestly couldn't tell, he ate with his hands, careful to not be too loud in case he woke the man up.

6:33 PM

@Vox

"What's the book?" He asked without opening his eyes, voice low and edged with the sound of accusation. "It's magic. That I know. But what is it?" He glanced at his nails, skimming a thumb across them. "If I'm harboring a criminal I need to know what and why. And whether I should bother to protect and feed you rather than turn you in for coin." He glanced over the back of his hand, "so then, what is it?" He crossed his legs, hands against his knees, nose ring glinting in the faint light through the windows. His pale eyes focused on Aiden with a firm near glare, suspicious.

5:43 PM

@kramptan

Aiden jumped at the sound of the other man's voice, and quickly moved. Grabbing the plate to use to defend himself, he opened his mouth then shut it. He didn't want to tell this man anything, he shouldn't tell him anything, but the more he spoke the more... worried he became. He snorts at his words of protection, he knows the truth. Enslavement. That's what the path will lead him if he tells the truth, but even if he doesn't speak the truth he would sell him off to someone else or send him back to those bastards for coins. "... It's a spell book for witches... full of magic, that only the owner can understand" It wasn't a lie, but it wasn't the full truth, that felt safe to say. "I'm not a criminal... They just..." He frowns and sighs looking away from him. The young witch looked annoyed, "I don't need your protection. Just... Send me off to the next city or kingdom you go to, I'll leave."

6:08 PM

@Vox

"If I am to drop you somewhere it's without that book. Watch your tone and do not try me." Echo cracked a command, pushing up to fetch a bottle of wine from his cupboard. "Magic including curses?" He poured his glass sipping it lightly, returning to his chair. He had no fear of Aiden, even with the potential of magic. What would he do that'd make his life worse? "For now you're remaining on the ship. Chores begin in the morning." He advised. Part of the way through the day he'd hung a hammock in his room for himself to sleep. Aiden couldn't be moved with the general crew and if he remained here, Echo could keep an eye on him. @kramptan

"the book is useless to you, and no one can read it" he glared back at the man, not seeming to care of his tone. Aidan knew he should be scared, he knew he couldn't sock this man or cast a spell if he wanted to. He took a breath and calmed himself, he didn't answer his question about curses within the book. He almost crossed his arm if it didn't hurt his shoulder a bit, letting out a soft ow. His purple eyes followed him as he moved, and Aidan made sure there was a good breath between them. Not wanting to be in reach of the man. "I'll escape" he mumbles softly as he goes back to the bed he was laying in it. Closing the curtain so he doesn't have to see the man. He grabbed the book and clutched it to his chest.

7:22 PM

@Vox

"As long as you are on the water, I can find you." He tucked onto the hammock, gently nudging himself to rock. Sleep was never easy, especially with the tight pain beneath his skin. He felt like he would burst at the seams given enough pressure. Echo sighed knowing little more than he'd started with, dropping his head back to the canvas hammock. Maybe Aiden could help... maybe. He shifted to his side, back to the door, a thin blanket over himself. @kramptan

Aidan let out a soft sigh as he heard the other climb onto the hammock. Aidan mumbles softly in a different tongue, cursing himself and the situation that he put himself in. His sister told him to get on a boat, and he did and now he was trapped with a jerk who probably sold him out cause he's useless. He is nothing like his sister. He needed to leave, he really did, fuck waiting for himself to heal. He could leave now it's dark no one should be awake... But where would he be going. He quickly shakes his head, no that's not the point. It doesn't matter where he goes he can worry about that later. He waited for the man's breath to even out, before sticking his head out. Seeing he has his back to the door, Aidan slipped out the bed and tip toes out of the room. Trying his best to be silent so the man couldn't hear him. He closed the door and was careful, it was dark and people seemed to be in bed with a few taking watch. He kept the book close to him, and moved to the side. He looked out at the sea and couldn't help but find it beautiful for a moment, before taking his head and snapping out of it. He need to figure out what to do while not being spotted. He wasn't wearing a top or shoes, just a bandage and pants. He was sure someone would find that odd, especially his hair, and eyes. He needed to work fast, or someone might rat him out. That was when he spotted his ticket to freedom. He carefully sneaked towards the life boat and threw the book inside, before climbing up as well just then realizing he had zero idea on how to lower the damn thing. "I'm stupid" he says, before reaching out to the book, and hugs it. "Damn it sister this is a mess, what am I supposed to do... Why did you give me this book."

@Vox

A bag dropped into the lifeboat past Aiden, the Quartermaster smiling. He was a large man, tanned and lined skin cut through with light splashes visible past his low cut shirt. 6'4" and built like a warship, the man easily undid the rope lines and held it in place. "You want down right?" His common sounded like thunder, and though he spoke softly in the night his potential volume was obvious. "Clothes, water, food in boat. Go." He held the rope tight and pulled the lifeboat close enough Aiden could easily climb in it. "Make no promises Captain won't pick you up again. But you can try." The boat had its own small sail and rudder as well as oars, meaning he could get quite far. The Quartermaster pointed to a large visible star holding up Aidan's hand in his large one to show him how to measure the sky. "Go that way. Goes to port you came from." He motioned Aidan on to make his choice. @kramptan

Aidan looked panicked at being caught and raised his book to hit whoever was coming only to be confused. As the man spoke, he blinked a bit, as he watched the man undo the boat and held it so he could climb in easily. He looked unsure, when his hand was taken and held up to help him read the stars. He slowly relaxed more. Once he was finished, he slowly nodded his head. "Won't your captain be upset you're letting me leave though?' He was confused and unsure as he moved to the boat, climbing in and taking a peak inside the bag to see there was indeed food, clothes and water inside. "Thank you?" He looked unsure, though confused why the captain would pick him up, he waited for the male to lower the boat, and once the boat set foot on the water, he would begin his journey or try to, as he rows away from the boat. Though it felt like he wasn't moving far, he would use the sail but the wind was low and not heading the direction he was going. Any shirt break to rest his shoulder would set him back somehow. "Stupid sea!" He cursed it.

10:48 AM

@Vox

"Captain knows I do as I please." He lowered the boat, leaving Aiden to himself until the morning. ~~ He'd move away for about an hour and then slowly drift back. In the morning he was bumping gently against the Sapphire's hull, Mokkan leaning against the rail looking down with amusement. "Didn't get far." He grinned several other crewmates nudging and chatting about it. "We are leaving. Are you getting back on boat?" He called down, head tipping to the side amused. He knew the captain was around specifically the front of the boat based on the change of the weight and the crew desperately avoiding walking above the figurehead. "We've entered Pirate runs. Best get moving." He pat the rail and walked to the wheel, shouting booming commands. The sails were loud in the quiet morning the crews calls like birds. In the distance several boats had appeared from the morning fog which the ship was slowly turning to avoid, eager to give a wide berth. @kramptan

Aidan looked up at the man, and glare, chuckling his shoulder. "I would have gotten far if my shoulder didn't hurt. I had to stop because it hurt, which gave the sea time to drift me back here." He was also tired. "Tsk, like I have nowhere else to go since I can't go far!" He shouts out to the man above standing up, he wanted to punch that amused look off that jerks face. He didn't understand why he couldn't leave, was it his sister's doing or was there another witch on boat. He sighs as he waits, as he is helped back onto the ship. He flinched away from everyone, he almost hissed at them and clutched the book tighter. His purple eyes are scanning everyone, carefully.

11:32 AM

@Vox

"Go by the front. Best spot for ya." One advised tieing down the boat. The crew didn't give a damn about him unless the man was in their way and all of them were keeping an eye on the two ships in the distance. They were gaining. The Quartermaster Mokkan had taken over as it seemed Echo was missing, not in his quarters nor the lower decks. With the ship turned to the wind and full sails the Sapphire got moving damn quick, the waves split under the heavy bow. It became very obvious there was something beneath the deck boards, tucked behind the figurehead. It was moving now and then and making the boards creak heavily from weight. The ships adjusted course to follow the Sapphire and the crew were getting nervous, "We should tell captain," "Mokkan we need to get Echo," "We can take two ships," started bubbling up about the deck from the crew. A deckboy, a skinny lad barely 19, had gone to the front to see the two ships in the distance. "I hope we take the ships. That'd be fun wouldn't it?" He grinned to Aidan, enthused by it.

@kramptan

Aidan felt unsure but moved to the front of the ship, wanting to get away from everyone. He only ever was around people when he had to go to the city and even then he always tried to go when there was less people. Aidan didn't know what was in this ship, it felt it. He also smelled it. Magic, something was happening. He was confused as he kept moving forward reaching the spot. He heard the echoes of people talking as he walked, at first confused as he looked at the two ships ahead. Till it clicked, "you gotta be kidding me... Im on a pirate ship... I don't wanna be a criminal" He quickly turned to the male next to him and blinked a bit surprised at the young man, "no it wouldn't be... I'll be a criminal by association." He looked at the two ships ahead and leaned forward a bit to see what type of ship was ahead. Maybe he could escape onto one of them during the fighting.

12:23 PM

@Vox

"We ain't Pirates. We do shippin'." The lad laughed, sitting on the rail, "But they are." He pointed, looking to the black flags, "We don't go out the way to hit ships, but if they come our way. It's us or them." He explained kicking his feet. The two ships seemed to move together, looking to box the Sapphire in. "Load cannon and gun. Focus left and follow Captains lead. No one moves less he does." Mokkan barked amongst further orders, "Mouse! Lad! You two protect 'im!" He ordered referring to Aiden and the two responded, Mouse giving Lad a gun and sticking to Aidens side. The two seemed to be twins; both with blond curls and green eyes. "Come on. We got a good spot to watch from." Both lead to below deck towards the very front, tucked beneath the bowsprit. Under them the hull had openings, covered by sheets. They'd be out of fire and be able to see both sides of the boat. Aiden had no choice; the men would pull him with if Aiden didn't willingly go. As one of the ships pulled up besides they started shouting about giving up, the other farther away by about 5 minutes. "Give up the wheel! You're being boarded to join the fleet!" "Not a chance. Bugger off. We have nothing to steal!" Beneath Aidan where the three were crouched, the boards vibrated and the twins grinned. As the man from the other ship started a command to aim Echo left from beneath them. Massive and furious, he hit the hull of the other ship with enough force to shatter through it. Wood splintered and the side of the pirates hull shattered like glass. Both boats drifted apart from the force of Echo. Massive coils, thick around as three men's armspans, glittered in the morning light and water and ripped apart the ship as he moved. The Sapphires men set onto the sinking boat like sharks, the Pirates confused by the massive serpent ripping them apart and letting in the sea. Echo went out the other side of the ship disappearing into the water and soon the far ship was joining their partner into the

1:16 PM

sea. Echo kept a human upper half though huge and with a scaled spine. Clawed hand pried boards off beneath the water and his body wedged in, twisting and forcing open the holes beyond repair. Men who jumped off board were pulled beneath the dark water and never came back up. Apart from some gun shots, not a cannon needed to be fired. Both ships were sunk within a few minutes, the Sapphires crew went out in lifeboats to collect anything of value that floated up. The twins grinned crawling out from where they hid, running to the top deck, looking over the edge to see Echo ripping into the ships under the water. He'd bring boxes and supplies to the surface for his crew to bring in. He was longer than his own ship, twisting and forcing himself down to sink to the bottom of the corals. Long braided hair surrounded him just as it did when he was a man, face crossed by a wide maw of a mouth filled with sharp teeth Aidan could see when he opened to let out bubbles. They gutted the ships within hours, taking even wood and metal to repair the Sapphire. New sails, fresh boards, barrels of food and drink, ropes and rigging, chests and boxes.

@kramptan

Aidan looked at the flags and groaned, "well there goes that plan" he says out loud, not like he was gonna do it now. He would rather stay here than on a pirate ship, more likely being sold there. He jumped at the sight of the guns in the twins hands, as Mokkan ordered them to watch him. "What- I don't need protection I can fig-" he didn't have much say as the twin dragged him down to the safe spot. "Technical you do have something to steal" he mutters under his breath only to gasp when he feels something move underneath him and his eyes widen at the sight before him. His eyes wide as he sees the sea creature before him. "N-no way... They're... That's..." He looked in awe and horror, his sister told tales about creatures like that. Some were born, some cursed. He watched as both ships were torn apart with ease, and the people who fell into the sea never returned. "I-Im never stepping foot in the water again" he says in a small tone, though he couldn't help but look at the large creature and find some beautiful in it. Aidan couldn't help but just watch in awe, following the twins when it was over. Leaning over as well to see Echo, his eyes glittering with curiosity and horror. After a while, as the men worked on gathering stuff and gutting the ships of their belongings. Aidan out of everyone's way held out the legendary book and stared at it for a moment. Hoping maybe there were some sort of instructions from his sister inside there. He goes to open the book.

2:19 PM

@Vox

Echo was too heavy to return onto the ship gasping beneath the water as his men returned to his boat with supplies. Mokkan remained in a small lifeboat to help his captain. His head was aching, chest on fire. His body was too heavy. He couldn't breathe. The surface fluttered as his breath sent bubbles above him. Control. Change back. Let go. Let go..... Echo's massive form slowly seemed to dissolve in the water around him until it was only a human, wrapped up in a shawl of scales dragging him down. The Quartermaster had to drag the Captain from the water, the crew pulling the lifeboat up with both men inside. "Pack the ship. We head for port." Mokkan ordered, carrying a wheezing Echo to his room. The third in command took control of the ship, the crew ignoring Aidan and leaving him to do what he wished. @kramptan

Aidan watched as the captain came back into the ship, and was curious about it. Was he cursed like those in his sister's stories as a child or was he born. He wondered. Maybe there was information in the book, but it wasn't like he could read it, he thought. As he flipped the first page only to be greeted with words, he could read. Which confused him, his sister told him that witches books couldn't be read by others. So why could he read it- "She's not dead, she not" he says out loud, he flipped through the pages and noticed a few pages missing torn out... Actually he noticed a lot of pages were, which worried him. He quickly closed the book then sighs, looking back at the captain's door before standing up and walking towards it. He hesitates but he knocks on the door. "Is there anything I can do to help?" He called out, not liking how useless he was being... But also he wanted a distraction and maybe get out of sight from people. Being in the open made his skin tight and put him on the edge. "I know some spells and potions that... Might help if you tell me what's wrong," He offered.

2:51 PM

@Vox

"He can't breathe well. Water in his lungs. We need him dry, warm and breathing." The Quartermaster was wrapping up his hair trying to get it dry, Echo stretched out on his floor. "Move his blankets please, and get clothes." When Mokkan moved the scaled sheet he cussed, Echo's side cleaved with a bloody wound. "Shit. Medical supplies. In his basket." He pointed, using a rag to mop up blood. "Must've been shot." When he searched to find a bullet Echo screamed and hit him hard enough the large man fell back holding his nose. "Shit." Echo dropped back, immediately going right back out semi-conscious, barely covered by his shawl. "We don't got a doctor. He's our doc." Mokkan admitted wiping off his bloody nose and lip. @kramptan

Aidan quickly steps inside and nods his head, he placed the book down on the table and was quick to move and do as Mokkan asked. He moved the blankets out of the way and went around to grab some clothing for the other. He grabbed the medical supply and brought it over. Wincing when the man got punched. "Ouch-" he says and shakes his head, "stop that you're gonna make his wound worse, and make him bleed out faster.' He opened the medical supply, and looked at Mokkan, "Just hold him down so he doesn't punch me and I'll get to work." he waited for the other to hold the captain down, before he went to work, using a tweezer-like item. he found inside the medical supplies and carefully poked around, before finding the ball pulling it out and putting it to the side. He then grabbed alcohol "sorry, I don't know where your numbing stuff is, and I don't have time to make one unless you wanna bleed out" he said to no one but himself really. He then poured a bit of it on the wound and then on the needle. Aidan was calm the whole time as he began to stitch the man side up elegantly and steady, stopping and pausing at time to let the man calm down before continuing. As he worked he didn't realize a soft glow coming from him, as subconsciously his magic numbed the pain a bit.

3:19 PM

@Vox

Two days passed without Echo moving. Mokkan kept close to his Captain with an obsessive passion, taking care of Echo while he slept. Aidan got put with the deck boy twins. Mopping the main deck, repairing sails, checking rigging ropes, organizing food and checking for rot. Both twins stuck to each other like glue and no one bothered to force otherwise. The crew had been together for two years, and some longer. They chatted like friends and family making the boat feel more like a large family collection than a work crew. The twins explained anything without provocation. Two of the men liked to play cards but would cheat. One harsh man kept a locket of his wife's hair in his necklace, but don't talk about it or he'd throw you off the ship. Mokkan prayed daily, many times a day. Echo couldn't read very well. The deck boys saw it all. Mokkan let Aidan sleep in Echo's quarters, the hammock giving at least a comfortable place to relax. When Mokkan thought the other was asleep, he frequently pet Echo's hair with shaking hands panicked by the length of time he was out. By the second evening, as Aidan and the twins came up from the lower deck, Lad paused on the steps, "Captains awake..." He and several of the higher crew were standing on the deck by the wheel, debating over a map. When Echo glanced aside and saw Aidan he tsked annoyed. "... And I want him locked up." He waved a hand, the Quartermaster moving to Aidan and motioning him to lower decks.

12:22 PM

@kramptan

Aidan when Mokkan wasn't noticing would check in Echo himself as well, it was just careful to make sure the other was healing fine, nothing beyond that in the past 2 days. He was unsure when he was thrown to work, but after an hour or so was used to it, happily jumping between different jobs and work when he could to keep him focused on something without worrying about if he'll make it to the next port. He also grew to like the twins, they happily explained everything to him even if he didn't ask it. He is the type not to ask, so it was nice that he had people just do it. It reminded him of his sister. He enjoyed sticking to the food, checking for rotten food was easier than all the other work. The more he learned of each person the more he couldn't help but chuckle, at how... Normal everyone is. Aidan had been thankful for being allowed to sleep in a hammock, he didn't feel comfortable yet to sleep anywhere else. He also used it to read the book. Learning everything he could though not knowing how to do any of that, and during the night and even day he practiced when he was sure no one was in sight. The only thing he seemed to master was summoning the book to him. His shoulder had healed, quickly, and had removed his cloak. Remaining in his shirt and pants and boots as he worked. So when the evening came on the second day, he didn't expect much to change, he thought he would be able to keep doing what he was doing. That was shattered when he peaked over the twins shoulder to see the captain, only to be stared with an annoyed look. Aidan couldn't feel insulted a bit at that then being told to be locked up like some animal. "Maybe I should have let him bleed out" he says out loud and turned around. He moved to where the Quartermaster motioned, "touch me right now Mokkan and I will punch you in the face like the captain did, but this time you won't bleed you'll be knocked out" It was bullshit, Aidan couldn't hit for shit, but he was a bit peeved by the s

1:53 PM

ituation. He went willingly to the cells in the lower deck. "So what pissed him off? That seeing my face sent me to the dungeon, I didn't even do anything."

1:53 PM

@Vox

"He can't get his scales free. He thinks you've done something." Mokkan did softly, showing him into one of the cells. It was kept near the same as the crews quarters rather than in the bottom bilge of the ship. "Just bear for moment. He's just... stressed. New to him. I will talk to him..." He reassured, passing through a mat and blanket to Aidan. Mokkan wasn't the kind of man for this. Dealing with Pirates or thieves was one thing, but he didn't go out of his way to cut men down. Echo was far the opposite. Anger drove that man like a hurricane. He took the steps to the upper deck, blocking Echo from going down. "Move Mokk!" "No. Go calm." "Shove your calm up your ass!" Echo shoved passed him stomping down the stairs. His scales were stuck up his sides and back, trousers tied on loosely to keep his modesty. "What the fuck did you do to me?!" He snapped, hair tangled and rough from salt water, dark circles under his eyes from poor sleep and stress. His back and parts of his thighs and hips were slightly scaled, glittering like sapphires. "Trying to force me to change isn't a good plan, asshole. Whatever the fuck you did stop it!" @kramptan

Aidan huffs and then laughs at what Mokkan, him doing something like that was insane. Aidan was way too weak, at least magically. He barely can start a magic flame without it going out within two seconds. He couldn't help the laugh again this time there wasn't any humor to it as he remembered the words others said to him when he followed his sister to work. He takes the mat and blanket and thanks him, before making his bed. His back to the man, as he entered snapping and raging. Aidan just ignored him, till he was finished yelling and he was done setting up. "I didn't do shit, fuck face. If you had two braincells you realize I don't have that kinda magic, cause if I did why the FUCK would I stay here. I would have left not cursed your scaly ass even more" he tsk and stood up dusting his hand off and move towards him. He paused when he saw him finally, his eyes running up and down him checking out his thighs and hips as the scales shined then went to his face and he couldn't help but wince at the sight of him. "You look like shit," he says, "go take a nap or something then maybe you'll have some intelligence come back to you"

7:45 PM

@Vox

Echo's hair physically fluffed, the waves unbraided and raising with his rage, "If I could relax I fuckin' would but instead I have to concentrate on keeping as a human! Because of whatever the hell you did. So figure it out and fix it with your unreadable little book!" He snarled slamming a palm into the bar. Mokkan wrapped broad arms about Echo's waist, picking him up off the floor, and carried him away. Echo yelled angry nonsense most of the way up the stairs moving up on his own as the Quartermaster pushed him along. He was left to his lonesome all day. Even when someone passed and the deckboys brought him food, they kept eyes firmly to the creaking wood floor and their mouths shut. Their entire aura was tension and anxiety, Echo raging and demanding high speed to port. They went the same speed even through the night, forcing shifts from the crew to keep their speed up. Echo needed to get to land and he needed to now. His skin ached, bones creaking, mind slipping as he kept going to the water in his mind. Mokkan frequently walked passed the cell, just in case the other may need him. @kramptan

Aidan jumped and flinched back when Echo slammed his fist against the cell bar. The bars that kept him from getting strangled by the said man in front of him, cause the way the man looked at him. 'If looks could kill' he though to himself. Aidan watched scared as Mokkan carried Echo off. He looked at the twins and was a bit upset that they wouldn't talk to him as he was behind bars but didn't push it. Though it kinda sucked that he lost what he was guessing was a maybe friendship, he really liked the twins they were funny and entertaining. He remained silent after that, he asked for his boob and then silence. Though he sometimes hum a song his sister used to sing to keep himself focused during the day since he couldn't do anything. What could he do... That was when he decided to open the book to see if he can find anything about this damn curse. As the ship sailed out and he heard shouts to hurry up, Aidan started to get scared a bit. He could be free but... The chance the man might throw him to the people chasing him was possible. He started tapping his fingers against his book before spotting Mokkan he quickly rushed to the bar and finally breaking his silence, "Mokkan... Please tell me there's good news, and I'll be stuck here for the rest of my life till the idiot realizes I didn't do anything and he isn't going to sell me off to the people hunting me down..." @Vox

"I don't know. He's angry. He wants to get to port to get off the sea...." He said softly rubbing his face in a wide, tired hand. "Best to stick close to the deck boys or me when you aren't in here. Just... just let him cool off." Mokkan unlocked the door sighing softly, "He's in his room. Has calmed down some...." He let Aidan out, heading to the hammocks further down the length of the ship, ready to lay down and nap until he was needed again in a few hours.... The deck boys waved Aidan down when he'd walked onto the main deck, offering out an orange. "Sorry we couldn't talk... Captain said not to when you're in the cell. 'Hes a prisoner not a guest'" Mouse mocked Echo's angry accent waving his arms around. @kramptan

Aidan nods his head at Mokkan words and sighs, rubbing his forehead. "Sorry Mokkan" he says as he watches the man let him out and looked a bit unsure before coming out of the cell. "I'm trying to figure out what's wrong but the book is pretty big and... Pages are missing like they were torn out. I think it was my sister's doing." He then heads towards the deck and sees the boys, quickly rushing over to them, and accepting the orange when the twins offered it to him. Aidan looks at Mouse and snickers at him words, "if there's ever a play about your crew you should sign up as the Captain. You got him spot on" Aidan jokes lightly before putting his book down, and flipped it open. "Now I have to read all this before we make it to shore, I'm not about to be sold off to those... People" he says, he then starts to peel the orange and munch on it annoyed.

8:49 PM

@Vox

"We're going to a good port. A mage there helps captain I think. He's always calmer after we visit." Lad cut open an orange stripping pieces off. "He's being really weird now though." "We work for a crazy snake man..." "Yea but the pays good." "Not being in jail? Yea. Good pay." Lad rolled his eyes at his brother. Echo passed them on the deck to get over the railing, Mokkan lacing arms around him and pulling him back onto the deck. They played the 'game' a few times more before Mokkan just locked him in his quarters, making the man scream in rage and beat on the doors. "Crazy snake man...." Mouse repeated and Lad giggled, rolling his eyes. "That book. It's magic right?" @kramptan

Aidan eyes widen when the boys mentioned a mage, and was about to ask more about them when he saw Echo walking. He half expected to be dragged back to the cell, only for the man to walk past them completely. He blinked. "Wow" he says in shock, as he watched the man play with his friend, though he doubt this is playing, only to be grabbed and locked into his room. "Guess someone's in time out by Mokkan" he jokes, then looks at the twins before nodding his head, "Yeah, it's magic. Strong magic, also has some dark magic. My sister says that anytime new magic is made a new page is made in the book... Though pages are missing. I'm not talented enough to cast spells, my skills lie in potion making, my sister is a caster this is her book" He flips through pages, trying to spot any pages about the curse. "Book it be nice if you could help me find this please-" he let out a soft gasp as the book flipped through it self, his hand raised up as he watched in shock as the book stopped on a page. He looked at it and read it mumbling softly to himself. "This is it... This is the curse!" He shouts getting excited, only to let out a soft groan, "But the page are torn... But I think I can help him with his current problem."

6:47 PM

@Vox

"He'll need it..." Both glanced at the quarters door as it physically creaked on its hinges. Echo, using the butt of an old rifle, knocked the door handle and lock off the hinges. Furious, hair a wild tangle, he dropped the rifle with a clatter and edged out the door. "Echo don't..." Mokkan murmured and groaned dropping his head back as the captain half climbed half fell over the rail and hit the water with a loud audible smack. "Fucker!" Mokkan whipped a fruit at the water furious, then set about with the on call crew to get moving properly again. Both twins burst out laughing until Mokkan threatened to throw a fruit at them two, which sent them skittering to a lower deck. @kramptan

Aidan watched in shock and horror as he saw the crazed captain run off and jump over the railing. Aidan wasn't worried, from what he read the other should be fine. He couldn't help but also chuckle lightly at Mokkan state, before shaking his head. He wasn't about to get a fruit thrown at him so he stood up. He waved at Mokkan and called out, "Mokkan when we reach land take me to the mage, he might have what I need to fix this" he says then begins to walk down, he sees the sun setting and call it a night.

7:08 PM

@Vox

"Just stay in his quarters. We don't have a space below for you." Mokkan sat on the stairs that sat framed the quarter doors, heading up to the wheel. He stared silently at the water, hazing out as if he was trying to focus on something. As Aidan settled for the night, he felt a tugging at the back of his mind. Not enough to keep him from falling asleep. He opened his eyes in the dark. He knew he was beneath the water, so far down if it was day the sun would not reach. He could process the crush should have killed him. He swam through the dark, hands in front of him; tipped in long black claws webbed in thin membranes. Small stripes in his skin glinted and glowed softly. It brought fish to him to fill his stomach. He liked the taste of the meat.... Ship. Crew. Fish.... The concepts idly rolled through his thoughts like slow rolling tide. He went deeper; passing a stone ridge. From the dark a pod of big, pale whales rose their greetings bringing comfort. Most knew he didn't want to fight them. They also knew he'd win. Dark... cold. No food was enough. He was still hungry. Fish scales scratched his throat and bones crunched between his teeth. Crabs shells shattered like glass but the meat beneath was soft and sweet.... He was too big for land, too small for the sea. Too hungry to sleep. Comforted with the support of the water, he was free. Free to go deep into the ice cold crush of the deep. Mokk. Boat. Book. Why had that book been so important.... A tightness in his chest burned in his lungs, but water gave no reprieve. Bubbles tickled up his face rumbling with his breath, making his eyes hazy. He couldn't breathe.... Drowning.... @kramptan

Aidan woke up with a shout in the captain's quarters, his hand around his throat as he struggled to breath. He took deep breaths as he was sitting on the bed. His mind was racing of what that was, he dreamed of the sea, under the water. He remembered how it felt, how real it all felt. The taste of blood and raw meat on his tongue, he couldn't help but make a face as he slowly got up trying to make sense of it. He placed a hand on his head and took a deep breath in again, closing his eyes then remembered, "... Is... He ok?" He couldn't help but feel worried, "Why did I dream of the captain... That made no sense." He stands up and grabs his book to try and make sense of it. "Ok book do your thing, explain what happened to me" he looked at the book and it didn't move, making him sigh, "fine... I'll look for it myself" He grumbles a bit and started flipping through page after page. As his mind thought back to the dream, was it real? Was captain actually drowning..." He groaned before standing up, to leave he needed some fresh air this was obviously just a nightmare. He thought to himself, but something in him wanted to tell Mokkan to rush into the water and dive in, and grab the man out.

7:51 PM

@Vox

Mokkan didn't move from his seat all night, staring at the sea, even as the ship had moved far off where Echo had gone in. His eyes were laced with dark circles, twisting his fingers. He had a long strip of cloth one of Echo's large scales laced on it like a bead. The islands were in sight in the distance, the lights glittering in the dark. "Still not called... still nothing..." Mokkan was muttering to himself, audible as Aidan took the steps past to the uppermost deck. "We'll be at port soon. I advise you run and run far." A sailor advised as Aidan passed to look out at the sea. "You can get gone before Captain gets a hold of himself..." @kramptan

Aidan looked at Mokkan and wanted to say something but decided against it especially with the way he looked. It's fine it's fine. He walked to the railing, nodding his head at the man's words. Though mainly to say he heard him, not agree with him. This was a mess, just a few days ago he would be home making the next meal for him and his sister now he was out in the ocean with nowhere to go if he thought hard about it. Once he on land he could remain with the mage to help him learn, but he couldn't stay there forever. The people hunting him down were gonna find him eventually. If he goes on his own he has an even higher chance of being caught or sold away or worse. He heard of bad things that happen to people like him, there's also the chance he puts others in danger. He also can't leave things as it is, what if it was his fault. The book might have caused something, he didn't know what the book was capable of but it seems to have a mind of its own. He lets out a loud sigh, before moving away and begin to make his way to Mokkan, "Mokkan," He says calmly, he didn't have the heart to tell him about his dream, what if he was wrong, what if he was drowning not Echo... But he couldn't remain silent, "drowning... I mean, I had a dream that I was swimming deep under water, thinking about you and fish, and the ship... but I started to feel like I was drowning." "I don't know if this was... A dream or a warning. I'm kinda scared, for the captain." He says gently.

8:52 PM

@Vox

"That... hurts more than I thought it would." He sighed pushing up, "How deep was he?" He asked honestly interested in it. "He can't drown under water. Problem is when he becomes human. He should be fine..." He looked back out at the water behind them. "People who are more open-minded... he can connect to them sometimes. Share himself with them. Normally he shares with me... he's just sort of talking." Mokkan shrugged a little. "The more he uses his scales the harder it's been for him to come back. It's been getting worse. As the... thing, he's got no control. Barely keeps himself together for us. We're all criminals. He protects us." He leaned on the rail, voice lilting sadly. "Suppose he's gonna have to leave us soon." He ran a hand through his hair with a sigh. "We will be at port soon. There's a mage there. You should meet 'im. Weird lad. But good." Mokkan hit the rail lightly with a palm, turning back to the ship wheel knowing he'd be needed to come into port. @kramptan

Aiden looked at him for a moment thinking of what he said, "Pretty deep, from what I saw it was... Getting darker, but I doubt it was cause I'm open minded. I'm pretty sure the book has something to do with this, if the book didn't interfere I'm sure you would have gotten the vision." He was trying to resure the man in front of him, he also wanted to believe that. He looks at Mokkan and frowns when he mentions the captain leaving them soon, "No he still thinks of you all, I heard his thoughts. He thought of fish and food and swimming but he also thought of you and the ship. The curse will be broken I'm sure if it" He slowly nodded his head and chuckled lightly, when he called the mage weird, "I can't wait to meet him, I haven't met a mage before. My sister always kept me away from witches and mages."

6:05 PM

@Vox

"I'm not sure you can call Callyx either of 'em. A weird nut with a love of bugs, though absolutely." He chuckled shaking his head. "We will be there soon." He patted the rail lightly turning aside back to the wheel. The island was lush, full of trees and thick plants. The village climbing up the hillsides. It was a small port to refill and shelter in the shores of the archipelago. The crew eagerly docked, excited for some time on land. Mokkan waved Aidan to his side while the crew bustled about with the dockcrews, tossing the ropes and tieing them down. "I'd not touch any of Cal's things. He's a bit... odd." He lead up the hill through the village, the road packed dirt and the houses well cared for. The people were sailors and the few who made their living with trades. Callyx's house was tucked into the hill, carved into the hard stone of the ancient mountain. Wooden beams and colored glass windows made the front facade, his door carved with symbols. Mokkan opened the door and gestured Aidan to enter. @kramptan

Aidan looked at him, and slowly nodded his head as Mokkan spoke, thinking about the man he remained silent. Aidan was never a big fan of bugs so it should be fine with him not touching anything. "Thanks Mokkan" he says, and began to walk off. He looked out at the sea again and opened his mouth to say something but decided against it. He left and began to walk off looking for a cloth to cover the book, not wanting someone to notice it while he was walking around and causing problems for everyone already. He decided to use the bedsheet, and tied it up, before wrapping it over his shoulder. A trick he learned from his sister, he couldn't help but smirk at that. He walked alongside Mokkan when he waved him over, and followed him looking at everything, It was the first time he had gotten away from his port village. Aidan looked at the house they were making their way to, he noticed the colours and symbols, he looked unsure for a moment before following inside. The symbols felt familiar to him, but shrugged it off. He looked around the house then at Mokkan, "so this is the mage? House?" He was unsure how to say it, "Hopefully he has some stuff for me..."

8:58 PM

@Vox

The house was lit by the ceiling. Cocoons hung above their head just inside reach, glowing faintly from their interiors. The entire space gently glowed soft and comfortable. Containers held insects. Thick walled jars protected bugs. Shelves held books and cases and boxes and so much unidentifiable nonsense no one could know what it was all containing. Open terrariums left butterflies to use the open air of his home, collecting on open surfaces and the floor. Long stick bugs the length of Aidens arm held onto branches and plants in pots. "One moment! Watch your steps!" A low voice called from inside. Mokkan shuffled further in careful of the moths and butterflies on the floor. "It's Mokk." "Aye-ah Mok. No Echo?" From the dimness of the next room padded a horned man. From white waved hair spiraled ribbed horns to which butterflies clung like jeweled passengers, claws wrapped around a several jars in his arms filled with tiny beetles in terrariums. "Nay. Need to talk about that." Mokk said lightly. The man set down the jars, approaching them then noticing Aiden. His skin was pale albino white occasionally scaled over with dark plates, a wiry tail lashing behind. His feet were tipped with long claws like his hands. He'd bent to reach Aidens height chuffing "And whose this?" He was easily as tall or taller than Mokk, but he walked in a half crouch lowering him. Slitted eyes followed Aidan, curious. He shook his head dislodging butteflies. He only wore a long tunic that barely covered to his thighs. Snuffling softly like a dog he touched Aidans hair and looked him over. "Magic user. Interesting...."

@kramptan

Aidan followed behind Mokk, he wanted to be careful of the insects on the ground so was careful. He thought the home was very beautiful it reminded him of his sister but instead of insect everywhere it was small light balls she made and put in little bottles. The young magic user looked at Hybris in awe, he never saw someone like that before, his mouth slightly open as he moved towards them. Forcing him to till his head back then back down when the man lean down to his height "Ah- I'm Adrian sir..." he says politely, he tilted his head to the side almost puppy like curious at the creature, he made a sound when the man sniffed and touched his hair. Then called him out to bring a magic user. "Yas, I am..." he says unsure, but there was no point lying about what he was, "though not a very good one mind you, I'm still... Learning." He looked a bit uncomfortable as he played with his shirt before speaking up again, "We were curious if you had some stuff... Or knew where to look for it. I think I found something that might bring the Captain back hopefully. Maybe not break the curse but slow it down till we can find a way to break it?"

10:59 AM

@Vox

"No one is finished learning magic. Even those born from it do not know all." He'd turned away to organize his jars, setting them atop shelves or on his worktop in some organization that made sense to him. Butterflies returned to his hair, wide wings slowly opening and closing, their wings glittering like gemstones. "If you break his curse you must remember you take away a part of him. He was the leviathan first." Hybris chuffed over his shoulder, "If it is his wish to remove it, I can have no part. I help him return to a human body once only out of my debt. Nothing more." He turned and hopped onto a hanging hammock chair swinging slightly. "But explain what you've found." Gently rolling a hand he used another to tug his braid to the front of his shoulder. Stroking it seemed to be a comfort. "He's said he wants it gone before." Mokk tsked crossing his arms. "He's also expressed to me he is happy in the sea. He is my charge just as you were once." Hybris didn't rise to the quartermasters anger eyes flicking to the large man. "You left! And now do nothing as he gets worse!" "My role changed. Do not test me, Mokkanin." Hybris sighed once Mokk spun on his heel to leave, slamming the door behind him. The horned man's tail flicked angrily in frustration, "Explain your findings, Aidan." He continued gently, holding out his hands to a massive beetle that flew to him out of a seeming need for comfort. "But know I will not do much without a deal. I seek to preserve one of the last leviathans in as pure a form as I can." He held the rino beetle petting its carapace. The animal was massive, nearly the size of a newborn rather than the normal palm.

@kramptan

Aidan looks at the butterfly in awe before flinching as he listens to the males both fight. He didn't get the full picture it seems, so he wasn't cursed...but fighting himself? He wasn't sure but he wanted to help any way he can. He looked at Mokkan then at Hybris before jolting and glitching when the quartermaster began to yell and then storm off slamming the door behind him. Aidan slowly turns to the Shopkeeper, and swallowed a nervous laugh that threatens to escape his chest. "I- I found a spell that could sooth him, not really cure him, but he mentioned being in pain and he said something about the curse acting up ever since I showed up on the ship. which I swear I didn't do anything." He hesitated at first, then began to reach behind him and pull the book out, "I... Found it from this book, the pages are missing" he says gently, "It was my sister's book. Now it's mine I guess? I don't need your help-help, I can do it. I just need you to point me to where to go to get what I need for the potion. I'm very good at making potions." He quickly realize he has been rambling and looks a bit embarrassed, "I'm sorry, I'm rambling"

12:12 PM

@Vox

"I can't read. So you'll have to for me." He said lightly, holding the beetle in his arms. He didn't criticize nor mention the rambling, letting the man continue. With the others reading he pushed up to get what he did have, motioning the man to continue. Taking down bottles he gently scooped insects out of his way to pack a container for the other. "I have no idea if it'll help. But you can make it with these. I've changed some, as that recipe is quite old." He tied labels about the neck of the containers. "I've labeled the replacements. Dried and powdered are not the best but it'll be good enough." Sighing softly he set about to make a recall, taking one of the cocoons from the ceiling. He snapped it free from its moorings offering the basket of materials and the cacoon. "Here. Use this as a recall. Crack it under the water when you undock. Focus on the intention. Just make sure he has enough space." Hybris held them out sadly. He hated this all. Hated that he was helping at all. "There's also letter sends in the box. Roll the letter and give them it. They'll bring it to me." His tail lashing and body language anxious, he picked back up the massive beetle, "Now go away." @kramptan

Aidan watched the man move about the shop and looked uncomfortable, he didn't like forcing someone to do something. He obviously is very against all this but he needed their help. "Thanks you, and I'm sorry. I-I don't really know what's going on, but I promise I won't mess with it anymore just sooth his aches till he's ready to decide what he wants to do with no regrets" Aidan's voice was soft, as he takes the items gently in his arms, "I'll be sure they return to you" He bows his head respectfully and begins to leave the shop, thanking the man again in a small voice. He then started making his way to the ship, since he had everything he needed. At least some of the stuff, but he was sure the ship had a pot or at least something he could to make everything in. He felt a bit more confident as he made his way to the ship only to pause when he spotted something. A wanted poster with his face, it what he assumed is his face cause his name was there. He panicked a bit and lifted a hood up to cover his face. It didn't seem there were many of them, they just started putting it up. He quickly rushed off to the ship, should he head the ship. He didn't want others to get in trouble because of him.

1:27 PM

@Vox

Mokkan took a step behind him with a quiet grumbled word of reassurance. He didn't want to stay longer than he had too. As a soldier crossed the street the quartermaster got hold of the back of Aidan's shirt to take him down a different path. "Did the bastard help?" He let go of the other, looking down at the things in their hands. "He's always been an ass." He motioned the man onto the ship then followed on. A brief check over the crew and he took up the planks. "We leave now." He barked and took to the wheel. Only once they were firmly at sea did he leave the wheel to talk to the mage. "Hold until the night. Then we can call him back. I've seen it happen before so I can help but I don't have no magic. You'll have to do the spell stuff." He sighed softly, "I'm going to go lay down. Please call me before you start...." He offered a hand to shake, "Thank you. For taking care of him..." @kramptan