Harvest, Plague Questline ~ 1/5

Ruvel had recently just finished the trade route on the mainland that had started in Lavanitir and ended at the royal castle, so was now heading to Hargeon town to get the ship back to Divide Island so he could get some rest. He had been for what seemed like months and couldn't wait to get back but stopped for a moment "Do I really want to go back right away?" he asked himself knowing that Cirven likely had some sort of training regime waiting for him when he got back "Why did you make the contract?" he asked what seemed like a rhetorical question but that wasn't the case, well at least not on this occasion; he also knew the answer to the question but still didn't like it given that he himself was being hunted. He understood that being by himself potentially made him a target but at the same time it made it easier to vanish but he was on his own so would only have his magic to help him, on the other hand he now had people to support him but he was now more exposed due to his work and it would make it harder for him to vanish so he realised that he couldn't win in either situation.

As he continued he heard talking and placed his finger to his ear like Alisha had told him, she had worried for the youth so cast a communication spell so he could keep in touch with the guild and they could keep an eye on him if needed. "Alisha?" he asked with a bit of a confused tone he had no idea why she would be communicating with him at current given he had checked in when he left the royal castle "I know I'm fast but I'm on foot so it's going to be a bit before I get to Hargeon town's port" he admitted, he could have summoned Bennu and got there in a few hours but he didn't like the thought of potential training with Cirven or one of the others. "That's fine, but are you anywhere near Beanstalk village?" she asked warmly. "I don't really know, I don't have a map on me but I know I have to pass it on the way. Why?" he seemed a bit concerned but suspected that it would be another pick up and delivery for him to do.

"We have an unusual job but given it's easy and along your route I thought you'd be interested." she said making Ruvel tilt his head "Sure, what are the details?" he asked couldn't see why it would be an issue as it wasn't detouring him so started to walk again "It's in beanstalk village, the reward is five hundred jewel and they want at least one sample of a new plant never seen before anywhere in Fiore so they can analyse it. The little information they have is that if it's touched you end up in a hospital for a few days so handle with care." she said making him sigh last thing he wanted was to be poked and prodded, who knew what he'd be like if they came with needles "Understood, I'll be there shortly" he said picking up pace seeing the village on the horizon.

After around twenty minutes he was almost at the entrance of the village, it was now he decided to place his unusual kitsune mask on, the mask it'self were it should be red were in fact black. His black hair now changed white with the silver steaks of his hair now being replaced with black ones. His normal pale blue and white clothing changing to what seemed like black and white priest clothing from the east and with his almost albino skin tone it would make him seem almost dead. As he entered the village his eyes now starting to analyse the place looking for potential ambush sites, threats, exits, vantage points as he always did. It was something that he had learned to do since he was younger so now it was just a natural instinct to do it due to not knowing who or what he could encounter. It was then he seen a strange male with red hair and was unsure wither or not he should approach given that he could see no marking indicating alliance. "You are?" he asked keeping his distance for the moment until he could be sure of the others intentions.

Word Count: 750

Doing rolls for our encounters

The member 'Ruvel' has done the following action : Dice Rolls

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'Monster Dice' :

-note: Forgot to mention in prior post that Oras is wearing his outfit, which covers every aspect of his body. His hood and mask block his head from view. Mah bad :p-

He stood at the borderline between the village and the forest, gazing into the vast sea of trees, brush, and essentially the massive number of different plants. All of which were known to him. From what he could determine, the plant would have something of enough significance that would make it relatively easy for him to notice, spotting the plant easily. This was mainly because most people didn't know a large amount of plants by sight or name. Not only this, but it was stated that this plant was never before seen. Therefore it must have some properties that are completely and utterly unique. Once Oras found one of them, finding the others should be easy. Especially if he uses his illusions to help him hunt. To be quite honest the plan was so simple because the task was simple. There wasn't any challenge to it really. Most would just tell the herbalist to take the risk and be done with it. However Oras was here not only for the reward, but because he too was intrigued by this unknown mystery plant.

What was the shape of the plant? Was it a parasite? Tree? Fungus? Was it magical or not? Did it have flowers? What sort of insects did it attract? Did it have thorns or poisonous properties? Was it strong, sturdy, stiff? Or was it delicate, soft, and bendable? Was it large or small? How deep did it's roots grow? Did they stretch outwards or downwards? There was a long long list of other properties that he wished to have answered. Most wizards wouldn't understand the significance of this sort of knowledge but it could prove vital one day. If this plant could heal a particular wound, or if it could be used as a poison against him, or if it had magical properties, enchantments never seen before. He needed to know. Not just for battle purposes, but for warning, or just generally informing the rest of the world. Oras could guess how it would impact his own path, but how it would impact the rest of the world. A world that was extremely gullible and would believe literally any idiotic thing sent it's way. He was unsure of how others would react. Then again it was their idiocy that kept him from interacting in the first place. In the end, Oras decided to keep the information to himself until convinced otherwise. At the very least he'd be giving the plant to the herbalist. She would, after all, be the one to investigate it the most, and more than likely would be wanting to add it to some list of plants in all of the known world.

Speaking of the herbalist he should probably inform her before taking the job. He looked around to make sure nobody would notice before activating his ability. Instantly, an illusion form of Oras appeared beside him, looking completely physical and identical to him in every detail. After it formed he sent the illusion to the nearest house. He was fortunate that the herbalist lived close to where he was currently observing. Otherwise she may have ended up standing outside of his current range. The illusion had no physical properties. It would not be able to open any doors, though it could just pass right through. No, it would instead be able to speak to her, as if it was himself who was speaking. Using this illusion, he was able to communicate to her that he accepted the job, whilst continuing to observe the forest. He wondered. If this mysterious plant had some sort of magical properties, perhaps it could give him ideas on what his next spells should be.

Then he heard a voice from behind and turned around, looking through his black visor and under the lip of his hood, his eyes falling on a figure who was also cloaked and masked. The black and white robes reminded him of a priest. Particularly form the east side of Fiore. The mask itself resembled a kitsune and was also black and white. He found it interesting to find someone who actually wore one of those masks outside of a festival of some sorts, but then again he was wearing priest clothing. It wasn't too out of the ordinary. What made the overall appearance interesting however, was the fact that he looked so pale he almost seemed dead. Even this however didn't phase Oras. It was simply another interesting fact upon first contact with the stranger who approached him. Speaking of which. Oras believed the man's question was out of place. Asking who a person was could be used in multiple versions. The most common was after greeting a stranger, and kindly asking what their name was. Another verison was when a man of power demanded to know the identity of a person of interest. There were many other ways to use the phrase, but these two were the most common ones. The immediate impression the man gave was the second, and yet it wasn't in a commanding tone. While it sounded of curiosity, Oras noted that the man was keeping his distance from Oras. A wise move... It was about time.

"I feel no need to reveal my identity with anyone unless they sought to work with me or if it were of importance." Oras spoke in a very plain and even tone as he usually did while in this mood. He wasn't aiming to insult, drive away, or other negative thoughts that usually entered people's minds when he spoke. It was simply his way of saying 'give me a reason to share my name to a stranger'.

Word Count: 945
Total Count: 1,476

Ruvel felt no real reason to communicate with the person whom had requested the help knowing that Alisa had most likely communicated with the herbalist on his behalf. He placed his hand under his mask rub his eyes thinking he was seeing things as the other seemed to be wearing a cloak and mask that he hadn't previously 'I need rest, I've been on the road way to long' he thought to himself knowing that he would have to hold on a little longer as he decided to accept this job along the way, he didn't completely understand why he placed his mask on as such a task he would be able to do under the guise of the legal side of the guild but something told him that something darker was at work and so wanted to take no chances on the matter.

lowering his hand he listened to the cloaked figure in front of him "You can call me moon, I accepted a task to look for specimens of a new plant within this village for a herbalist." he said stoically, he wanted to raise his hand to his chest but managed to go against his norm knowing that when wearing his mask he had to change mannerisms or he could be easily tracked putting the rest of his guild at risk and that was the last thing he wanted. He knew that new discoveries such as plants where a big thing, the properties could mean new medicines and perhaps foods but on the other side he knew they could possibly be used as poisons or drugs to harm people so antidotes would need to be made to combat such a thing. 'We don't need anyone else like he and I in the world' he thought to himself as he took a few steps forward "I shall repeat myself, who are you and what are your intentions here?" he asked believing it was only right that since he had given his name and intention the other should do the same as a sign of good faith, if he refused he would take care of the issue before it became a problem, then deal with the job.

"I believe the task here is of importance, as you yourself must realise if your intentions are the same as my own" he could only speculate at that time why another would be in the village until the other told him one way or another. "Such a discovery is big be it good or bad, if good the possibilities for new medicine is unfathomably, on the other side however it could be a powerful poison or neuro toxin" he said with a sigh knowing it went far deeper than that but he wanted to get this sorted as soon as possible and get moving due to needing rest and he didn't do it very well in places he wasn't use to.

Word Count: 489
Total Word Count: 1'239

Oras watched as the figure stood there silent for a second or two, not responding immediately. Thus Oras saw no need to add any more. The masked individual would be given time to think as Oras wasn't exactly in a rush. Researching took time to be sure, but just because it took time didn't mean Oras couldn't take a sample with him and research it the following day. Then the figure lowered his hand, seeming to become less aggressive now that he had received a response from Oras. The illusionist knew from personal experience however, that anyone with a high reaction time could appear as if they were lax in defenses, when they were in fact on high alert at all times. This man was no exception. Lowering his hand could very well easily be a ploy to lure him out of a defensive state. He then gave Oras what he assumed to be an alias, just as Oras would give others his own alias. When he mentioned how he had taken an assignment that included reaping a few new plants as specimens for an herbalist Oras was a little intrigued that another individual would accept the exact same job. At the exact same time.

"As fate would have it, so have I," he replied to Moon in a rather dry and flat tone, as if he really didn't care what he was doing. Or about the job in general. Oras watched with narrowed eyes as Moon took a few steps forward, not moving an inch himself but at the same time ready to retaliate at a moment's notice. It was a good thing Oras ensured that his fear aura was down. Otherwise this individual, if he truly was as cautious as Oras was, would have attacked rather than speak and request information. After stepping forward, Moon repeated his earlier question. This man seemed determined to know Oras' intentions no matter what. And he disliked it. The fact that this man had taken on the same job as Oras, and that he was prying for information? It couldn't be a coincidence.

At least that was what he thought until Moon started sharing why he was taking the quest. This guy, although not the perfect image of one, had a hero like aspect of wanting to keep the world safe and eliminate every and all enemy in sight. He let silence hang there for a moment before speaking.

"Verus. That is my name. I'm here to complete the same task for the jewel and out of my own curiosity of this plant. And even if I did want to use it for some 'dark' purpose and you did somehow kill me, what would that change? Someone will always be there to pervert and twist anything into a weapon, no matter how hard you try to keep the world safe." He looked at the man through his thin black visor. "Do you wish to continue interrogating me?" He asked. The question was rhetorical and also a distraction. For he had conjured one of his physical illusions that had been roaming the edge of the forest close by, as it could only travel fifteen meters. He could see what the illusion saw and spotted the purple plant. He could harvest and examine one after dealing with this individual, and thus he had the illusion attack the plant and destroy it. It wasn't very strong and easily damaged it seemed. At the same time, his illusion was effected in some way and dispersed. Still, it was one out of five.

Word Count: 568
Total Count: 2,044

1/2 weak killed.
0/1 normal killed.
0/2 hard killed.

Ruvel watched the persons body language, every slight movement he noted just as he guessed the other held apprehensions on him, he had the same about the other. He himself was of no threat on his own but that didn't make him any less a threat given what his summons could do and he had no qualm in harming himself to take out a threat to himself, a mission or to the guild whom he called family and home and as it stood he didn't know if the one in front of him was an enemy or ally so thought it would be better safer than sorry. 'How do I continue? His body language shows he isn't offensive...' he asked to his summons, it was the first time he was dealing with this kind of situation, normally he was told if her was going to have company. 'Don't let your guard down kid, just because he doesn't seem like he is an enemy doesn't mean he isn't; first appearances can be deceiving' the warrior summon replied back.

Ruvel knew what he was being told was basic logic but at the same time he didn't trust anyone anyway, he found out that it can just cause more issues and spell more pain for him when they did turn traitor. "Well at least we are on the same task it means that the work load can be halved then Verus was it?" he said trying to lock the name into his mind just in case they worked again at a later date, he guessed that he was using a pseudo name but he didn't blame him given he was doing the exact same thing, but his was for safety reasons for those he was suppose to hold dear and was a mandatory thing from what Cirven had told him. "I am not curious about the plant's capabilities at current, that is for herbologist to sort out, my task is to get samples to the one who issued the job nothing more, nothing less" he said starting to move closer once more, he knew his clothing wasn't the exactly normal for the location, he had no idea why he had chosen such a look but he had done so, it was ironic given he didn't believe in gods and that if they did exist believed they deserved some of the pain they gave others.

Listening to the rest of what he said he couldn't micro smirk under his mask "If I believed you where a threat to me, my task or my guild then you would have already been neutralised by now." he said calmly as he let out a sigh "They would not be my concern unless they where here right now and prevented me doing my task" he explained with a shrug to him it was a fact and one that wouldn't change regardless. It was clear that he cared only for the task at hand and that everything else was mute to be tended to as and when it was requested. "Maera" he whispered under the mask instantly a small giggle and the delicate jingle of a bell would be heard as Ruvel's hair started moving "Maera, the new herbs where can some of the samples be found?" he asked quietly not wanting to announce the little fairy's presence knowing that she was shy around strangers. He knew it would take her a bit of time but he didn't mind his eyes keeping on the other for now, knowing there's more to the other than what he was seeing but for now he held his tongue on the matter.

Word Count: 609
Total Word Count: 1'848
Health: 200/200
Mana: 119/125
Maera's Knowledge 1/3

This 'Moon' character was going to hang on his back the entire day wasn't he?  Oras, who was here to get the job done and do his own research on the plant, was still here talking with the robed, masked figure.  This man looked like he belonged to a church or temple, yet he sounded like he belonged in one of those 'righteous guilds' that served the greater good.  And yet when he spoke again he sounded more neutral than good.  Perhaps Oras misread or misheard him a moment ago, or perhaps the man chose different tactics according to Oras' response.  At any rate his words gave him no hint as to who he was and whether or not he was a wizard.  One thing to definitely note however was that he took a moment or two to think yet again which could possibly mean he was indecisive.  While Oras liked to have time to form a plan, he was also quick to make decisions.  Was this man the same way?  Or was there more to it?  Before Oras spoke the man moved forward even more.  Oras remained the same.  Not moving his position, and yet always ready to retaliate.  To an untrained eye he would have looked like a statue, or as if he were not expecting anything and just standing there.  Something told him however that this man wasn't inexperienced as others.

"I've learned to rely on my own skills, not the skills of others.  The herbalist isn't a magic user and thus I doubt she'll recognize it if she came across it.  Even if she did, the chances of her identifying what it's properties are exactly would be at a very low percentage.  Besides.  Whose to say she will tell you the entire truth?" It was something he had learned.  People who seemed to have good intentions many times turned out to be using you to their own ends.  For example.  The bandits at the Hargeon town were indeed out for the jewel, but it was clear to Oras that the captain of the guard, just by that look in his eye and the way he spoke to Oras, was making plans.  Whether he wanted to use Oras for a task, or use him to rise to a higher position was unclear.  But he did want to use him.  The company whose building was threatened to be blown up by a fired employee only wanted him to prevent the destruction of their property.  They didn't care about the individual in question.  It was the fellow employees who paid him in the end.  Mankind was corrupt.  All of them.  And that was the end of it.

The man then answered his words previously about the world and it's corruption.  And he couldn't help but chuckle lightly.  Only sharp ears that were listening for any sort of sound would have caught it, and even then it wasn't very loud.  Was that arrogance or confidence?  Oras believed it was safe to confirm that he was a wizard now.  What type of wizard however was the important part.  And at any rate, Oras was mastering illusion magic.  However this magic was unique to any other.  Once he had fully mastered it's power, the very world the people stood on would no longer be real.  He would reveal the truth to everyone:  Nothing is real.  Reality is a myth, an illusion.

"So you are part of a guild then.  That's good to know."  The man fell silent again and Oras conjured another illusion off in the distance.  While the illusion searched he thought he heard something and focused in on the wizard, the illusion pausing it's movements.  He thought he heard the man whispering.  He saw movement in the man's hair.  At the same time Oras heard a giggle and a clear ringing of a bell.  This was something he hadn't encountered before and he was unsure what to make of it.  However the only reaction from Oras that would betray that he heard or saw any of this would be his eyes, and those were very well guarded by his mask.  He would not let any detail slip, and thus dispersed his illusion so he could better focus on this wizard.

Word Count:  710
Total Count:  2754

1/2 weak killed.
0/1 normal killed.
0/2 hard killed.

Ruvel's eye turned to the right hearing the light jingle of the bell that came from beneath his hair "You have the information?" he whispered, allowing for the small fairy to find her bearings but knew it would likely take her a little longer for the moment so would have to deal with the one in front of him a little longer it would seem his eyes going back to the other masked figure as he continued to study the one whom called themselves 'Verus'. 'I don't have time to be dealing with him, I want this task done so I can get going...' he sighed silently below the mask 'Manners...' Aelona said with a cross tone making him instantly roll his eyes 'How many times do we have to go through the fact that I don't have those, I was more concerned with living long enough to draw my next breath' he sent back to the forest elf only to hear her huff 'Give him some leniency, he's been on assignment for the last six months, unsurprising he would want to get home.' Edaenz sent to her woodland companion who sighed knowing that the priestess of the wind was right on this occasion but it still didn't sit to well with her how Ruvel was at times.

"I know you are trying to read me, because I am doing the same to you.." he had already came to this realisation by the way the other stood and it was also the smart thing to do when faced with someone who hid their true identity "It is a waste of time to do it to me." he continued but didn't go into the reason behind this and nor would he ever do so as it did not concern the cloaked man in front of him. It wasn't that he was indecisive in any way, shape or form his pauses where him trying to decide the best way to continue down the path he was walking and would change as it was needed, of course every now and then there where other factors such as his summons speaking or he himself requiring guidance that made him pause, but even that was brief. Due to these constant changing factors within the equation it made him harder to read if not near impossible.

He listened to the man talk and smiled briefly under his mask "heh.." is all that would be able to be audible 'Crystal a man after your own heart, likes verification.' he sent to the dragonic goddess of magic, or so she claimed he still believed there was no such thing as a divine being which was strange given his mentor was a god slayer. 'He's a wise man if that is the case Ruvel' she sent back before going silent 'Does he sit in a library all day too?' chimed in Barthenz making Ruvel move to rub his temples knowing where this discussion was heading. "Just because someone claims not to be a mage doesn't necessarily make it true, also, where they may not be a mage they likely have a colleague that is who would check for the magical properties of such a plant" he said with a shrug, he still didn't really care on the matter he wasn't a herbologist, he knew which plants where good for basic healing and which could be used for harm through watching others or what his summons had taught him but that wasn't something the other didn't need to know.

"I have found those who study nature do so to get to the root of the information, do forgive the pun it wasn't intended it was just the best synopsis" he said lowering his hands from his head now Crystal and Barthenz had stopped arguing at least for now, he wished they where more like Shindara and his twin Amuul but they where of the same element and used the same kind of magic where Crystal and Barthenz may as well be on different plains of existence when it came to their views on things. "It is true however that she may not give all the information and the information she could give could be indeed false" he continued, he had every intention of taking a sample with him as just because he didn't care about the plant it didn't mean that others wouldn't find the thing of some interest to help the guild in some manner.

Being a demonslayer he heard the man's chuckle but for now decided to play dumb as if he hadn't, he had found doing so was advantageous at the best of times. "I am indeed part of a guild, you on the other hand have yet to find a place call ho-" he said his eyes going to the left once more hearing the jingling sound from under his hair "Maera?" he whispered in a low voice that even a slayer would find difficult to comprehend his words "East two, north one, west one, south one" she whispered just as low back, he heard it clearly from being so close to the little fairy and nodded a little "understood, thank you.." he whispered to her 'You best rest, that was likely tiring to you big sister' he sent to her hearing the jingle of the bell vanish shortly after as he moved to turn east "There's a few in every direction" he said starting to walk off towards the general direction of two of the samples.

He couldn't care if the other believed him arrogant or confident, in reality he knew he personally couldn't take him out but the summons in his arsenal where a completely different story. He did take pause as he seen some strange plants that seemed to be moving "Odd" he knew not everything was as it appeared and thus knew these were not the plants he was looking for, in fact the seemed to dash towards him "Great killer plants.." he thought to himself "Edema... Aelona..." he said calmly watching as a tall, slender woman dressed in tight black clothing and pale purple hair came from the shadows, she looked annoyed that was for sure more so as Ruvel began to glow a pale green colour  an elegantly carved wooden arch seems to grow from the ground. Once at maximum height an Elven woman with longish pale blue hair and silvery eyes walks through, wearing leather armour. After a quick bow to Ruvel she clipped him at the back of the head "Really?" she said looking to Edema with a glare and met with one "Will you hush? Edema could you?" he asked watching as the tall woman seemed to make a seal in front of her which entwined the two plants in what seemed like webbing before walking back to the shadow she came from. "Aelona, fire arrow" he said calmly like he had calculated what he was doing.

Grumbling a little under her breath the elven maiden drew her bow string four arrow appearing between her fingers with flaming tips after a moment she released them allowing two to hit each enemy. Normally this wouldn't be able to take out both at this current time but due to them being trapped within webbing and hit with fire both plants had been taken out with a single strike of Aelona's bow. "Are you going or going to hang around a little longer?" he asked the other making her shrug and follow him as he walked off knowing the fire would burn itself out after a few minutes as it would have nothing to burn on "I don't recall plants attacking normally" he said looking to the elf that walked behind him almost as if a guard protecting someone of importance "They don't without reason and for them to do so without reason means darkness or corruption Moon" she said her voice sounding somewhat saddened and irritated that someone was trying to play god with nature.

Word Count: 1'336
Total Word Count: 3'184
Health: 200/200
Mana: 100/125

Summons:
Aelona's Aim - 1/3
Maera's Knowledge - (on cooldown)
Endema's Web - (on cooldown)

Enemies:
2/2 weak killed.
0/1 normal killed.
0/2 strong killed

The wizard who called himself 'Moon' stood there as still as Oras. It was clear, most likely to both of them, what the other was doing. Analyzing each other, looking for anything that would give them a hint to the real personality, strengths and weaknesses of the other. Oras had nothing so there was nothing to offer but his cautious personality and the fact that he was alone. This man however had a guild, which meant there was much to investigate. Not to mention that this little bell jingle got his attention now, and the fact that the man was whispering. His immediate thought on the matter was that he was communicating with someone else. To whom, or how was the part that needed answering. The most likely answer was that he was using a spell to communicate with someone. It would explain the bell jingle for certain but that theory had holes. He could have a device of some sort that allowed him to communicate with others. After all, the technology non wizards were developing were becoming quite impressive. They were actually beginning to remind him of magic in some cases. Of course there was also the third possibility that there was someone else here with them even though Oras could not see them. He didn't like this possibility but he included it nonetheless. Unless solid evidence proved otherwise, he didn't dismiss any idea, option, or possibility easily.

He stood there a good while and continued to whisper his conversation. Oras waited till it sounded like he was most distracted before taking one silent step forward. If he could hear the conversation then he could get a better idea of what he was dealing with. The movement was utterly silent and was made in slow motion so that even with heightened senses he wouldn't be able to hear, see, or sense him moving. He might be able to notice that he moved a step forward, however without any nearby markers besides grass to determine his position, he really wouldn't be able to tell. If Oras had chosen to take another step or two, then he would have been able to determine whether or not he moved. Of course if his magic involved space then it was possible he knew everything that happened in his vicinity. He thought about it for a moment and decided that it was an excellent spell to know and would work on developing it in the future. If Oras could know everything that was happening on the battlefield, including small details such as words being spoken, simple hand gestures, etc. then he could easily have the upper hand in a fight. Especially when he could already see through the eyes of his illusions.

Speaking of which he went ahead and conjured another physical illusion and sent it off to scout for another one of these plants. The illusion phased through trees and brush alike, all the while keeping out of Moon's visual range. He needed to worry about sight not sound. This illusion couldn't make voices or sounds like his other illusions. Each of his creations had a specific purpose. For example: His fear aura did exactly that. Over time, those fighting him would be given an overwhelming feeling of absolute terror. And terror not only screws up other senses and one's self control, but it also keeps them from focusing. This is a crucial part in battle and thus fear is a powerful weapon during it. So far he can only effect wizards of his own class, this being the D class. However even so, the visual change of the world is still visible to other wizards of higher class. The only difference is that fear and terror isn't inserted into the wizard. There is still a benefit to it of course, despite that the main factor no longer functions. The more the world changes around them, the more their eye is straining to follow. The more there is to keep track of, the more difficult it is to hit your target. Especially when there are multiple versions of them.

Then the man spoke in higher volume again, speaking once again to Oras. His attempt to move closer and hear the next conversation would be fruitless it seemed, since it was clear this man wanted to end the discussion. He stated the obvious, that they were both attempting to observe and analyze the other. What he said next however amused Oras. That it was a waste of time to observe him? If he was referring to appearances then yes. With being covered head to toe as Oras was, he had to agree on that point. However body posture. Actions. Habits. Personality. Manner of speech. Mannerism. There were fare more ways to learn about a person than just this. Moon may believe Oras would gain nothing from this, but he begged to differ.

"There is never a single path to one's destination, but many," he said. This would be all he would say on the matter and thus he let it drop. Oras watched as the man rubbed his temples which seemed out of place. However it helped him discern that it wasn't a device of some sort he was using to communicate with. That left two options then: Either he had a spell, or someone else was there with him. He would dismiss neither however the first of the two seemed less likely as there were flaws with that theory. Still nothing was impossible he thought to himself. Moon replied to what he had said in regards to the herbalist and Oras was becoming more intrigued. So he had thought of it too then. Perhaps a conversation with this man might be entertaining after all. Unfortunately it seemed that neither of them was willing to converse for very long.

It was true that the herbalist could have a wizard as an ally, friend, or assistant, however even if that were the case, Oras would choose to study the plant himself. He wasn't a master of plants, however he ensured that he knew enough about nearly every subject so that, along with his analytical nature and sharp senses, he would be able to discern the true nature behind the subject. Oras didn't trust anyone but himself... Actually he trusted two other individuals. His mentor, who left him after he reached a certain point in his training. And his childhood friend whom he hadn't seen since he was ten years old. It was a fifty fifty chance that she was alive or dead, and thus he had been hoping to find her one day. If he didn't though that couldn't be helped. At any rate he didn't trust this herbalist in the slightest and would rely on his own research and that alone. It seemed that Moon understood this too. Therefore Oras said nothing but instead gave a slight nod of approval.

He was in the middle of confirming his position of a guild and stating the obvious that he was by himself when it seemed he was interrupted again. Oras paid close attention though it seemed like he was oblivious as usual. This time he was able to make out a voice. It was extremely faint so it was hard to tell, but it sounded similar to a female's, so for the moment he would need to assume it was a feminine being. That crossed out the spell option which meant someone was here besides Moon. Other than an extremely faint voice that sounded a little feminine however, he could discover nothing else. Especially since it seemed to be a quick discussion. Moon seemed to return his attention to Oras and informed him that there was one of these plants in every direction. Oras knew. His illusions were honing down on one now. This plant was larger and thus he rightly guessed they would require three attacks rather than one. Thus three of his illusions surrounded the plant and shot at it from each direction, each cutting the base of the plant simultaneously and cutting it down. Before they vanished Oras saw another plant and knew where that was.

"I know. I've destroyed one already," he said as he turned and made his way into the forest. He created another illusion that followed the wizard but ensured that this illusion was far smaller in size and remained in the bushes, keeping it's image dulled and darker colors. As Oras made his way to the other plant he observed through his illusion's eyes he saw two figures appear beside him. They had appeared out of nowhere. One of them had bow and arrows and shot a flaming missile toward one of the plants, destroying it instantly. He listened to them speak to each other before dispersing the illusion. He had the information he required on the wizard. And since he was skilled in stealth he had ensured the illusion wasn't spotted. If the wizard's eyes were on the illusion it wouldn't move. You couldn't tell if it was an illusion or not when one: It looked as real as anything. And two: when it wouldn't move under his sight. Once all eyes were off of it was when it dispersed. This illusion didn't effect the physical realm but could make sound if Oras chose for it to.

Once he dispersed the spell he saw another plant and pulled two throwing knives out of his void bags, throwing them both at the plant's base, nearly cutting it in half on the first go. The plant reacted by releasing a gas of some sort. Of course Oras wasn't near it so it didn't effect him. He stopped moving forward and threw one last dagger that finished it off. That was all. He reviewed what he knew on the wizard: He was a member of a guild. He preferred to keep details about himself secret. He observed and studied others like Oras. And he was most likely either a celestial wizard or a summoner. He didn't have much info, but it was a start for certain.

Word count: 1,687 words
Total Count: 4,441 words

Enemies:
2/2 weak killed.
0/1 normal killed.
2/2 strong killed

Ruvel sighed a little under his mask 'I am not feeling to well Aelona, and with him watching us I do not feel at ease to speak out loud' he sent to the the woman whom walked beside him who merely nodded showing she understood and agreed with Ruvel's words. 'You both seem similar on certain things' she commented to him making him roll his eyes 'I use summons, not quite sure what he uses.. yet..' It was almost like he was issued a personal challenge and he would get to the bottom of it. 'We both study what is around us before jumping to conclusions but that is common sense, that many seem to lack it seems.' He sent back to her, with how he was raised not doing such a thing could end a persons life, it was that simple. He had noted how the other had tried to hide the fact that he was using his magic and though he had no real way of telling which due to his magical senses being somewhat none existent in comparison to other mages he had come across, he had found a way to turn the weakness to his advantage and honed his senses to certain types of magic. The types he was able to sense with some clarity were shadow, darkness, light and illusion to be more exact so he had come to the conclusion that the others talents laid within one of those four types, he had yet to see which.

It was true he had noticed the other was cautious by his demeanour and how he tried to hide his casting, but he also noted that the other seemed knowledgeable and took nothing at face value so it stood to reason that the magic he could use stood within one of the four that could alter a persons perception or break their reality completely. He placed his hand to his ear "Am I meant to have bumped into someone here?" he asked to Alisha his eyes looking around the area for the plant he was meant to be taking a sample of "Not to our knowledge, why?" he received back "Well there's a strange male here, he wears a mask and cloak... blue eyes I think, he seems to be a scholar and is on this task too" he sent back wondering if they knew who this person could be "Do you have anymore information Moon?" she asked knowing if he wasn't using her name then he had his mask on "None at current but I will get back to you as I find out more" he said taking down his finger from his ear "Okay, remain safe Moon and return home soon. Jester is looking for you." she said with a giggle, that only made him cringe a little because it knew that some sort of training was bound to be following it.

'He was right the mere way a person stands can tell you a lot about a person' Aelona sent to him only making Ruvel sigh a bit more because he could hear a lecture coming on 'Yes, but as we both know I change such things as needed, I am not a mountain or an oak tree...' he began to her wanting to shut down this conversation before it even got started 'I am more like a willow that is caught in a constant breeze' it was the best analogy he could come up with and knew it was one that the forest maiden couldn't argue with considering it was true. Seeing a strange plant he knelt in front of it "I know this will hurt but I do require the sacrifice so we can learn more about you" he said wrapping his sleeve around his hand before taking the sample plant and some of the soil around it so that too could be analysed wrapping it in a piece of fabric before standing and walking off to find another.

He thought about what the other had said about different paths to the same location "Might be true but then, all those paths might end up at the wrong location anyway" he said to himself, Aelona looked to him and chuckled "True, but all it takes is one correct path to get to a persons true self" she said to him making him huff "Remind me to blow up that path then Arrow" he sounded somewhat annoyed that made her stop "In doing that, it's true they couldn't find you but you would also lose yourself in nothing but lies and illusions, it's not something you need in your life Moon we all agree on this so now blowing up things" she lightly scolded her young summoner who put the sample in the dip of his sleeve for when he would hand it in to the black sails herbologist.

'You should know by now he wouldn't do that kind of thing, besides he knows we wouldn't allow him Aelona' Seiyuki mentioned making Aelona nod knowing it to be true, it still didn't sit right with her that he was speaking in such a way, but for now held her tongue but it was something they would have to talk about at a later date. 'Careful with that plant Ruvel, it's not giving off a good energy' she sent to her summoner through their bond 'Aelona?' he asked not understanding what the Elven maiden was talking about 'Something doesn't feel right about it to me but I can't put my finger on it, I will take a sample with me though' she sent back if her face could be seen it would be one of concern and worry but her kind would be able to get to the bottom of it quickly. Ruvel nodded knowing if it was concerning her that much then it would be best for her to take part of the sample he had hidden to her because of her people's link to nature they had a six sense about such things and knew better than to argue with her on such things.

As he had walked away he had no idea what the other had said about knowing that where at least one in each direction. As he continued down the path his eyes went to the side as he seen the ripples of something that followed them 'You've noticed?' Aelona asked him 'Of course I have, he is trying to find out my magic but in doing so I have found out his... he's an illusionist' he sent back to the elven maiden slightly behind him 'Wouldn't he know yours?' she sent back 'Unlikely only reason I now can pin point his type is because I can't sense magic as a whole so had to train myself to recognise things due to my blood' he hated the fact but still it was something he couldn't help. Upon the walking he came across purple plants 'Those don't look normal' he sent to Aelona who frowned under her mask drawing her bow and like before the tips of the four arrows catching on fire as she let go each of them hitting one of the four plants ahead setting them on fire due to them being plant life "You realise I hate doing this right Moon" she said anger in her voice "I know, but they could be dangerous right Arrow" he said in return watching her nod.

Moving into his top he brought out a charm and threw it to the ground "Seiyuki" he muttered a snowfall will appearing in the otherwise warm surrounding, a woman with pale skin, ice blue eyes, long white hair and wearing a white, blue and ice blue kimono now standing where the charm once was "You called me Moon?" she asked calmly, he just nodded towards the squealing purple plants that would still be on fire. "Ah yes, I see" her voice never changing tone as she threw ice needles at each the fire knowing that they would not melt at Aelona's flame arrow as it was still classed as their summoners magic. Soon they fell over not making a sound allowing Ruvel to pass like before he carefully used his sleeve to take the plant "Thank you for your sacrifice we we might learn" he said before taking the plant and a small soil sample and placing it within his sleeve before heading back the way he came in the hopes to bump into the illusionists. 'Please both go and rest, I'm sure I'll be fine.' he sent watching as the wooden arch from which Aelona came appeared once more, with a bow she moved back through it as she did the wood receded back into the ground from which it had came. 'I think I will decline and stay a little longer, we worry about you' she said walking beside him making Ruvel roll his eyes 'No need to worry, please your clan is in the middle of a life celebration you being leader must be there' he sent back making her smile lightly 'Very well' with that a snow storm passed and with that Seiyuki was gone 'I'll need to remember to make a new charm later' he thought with a sigh as he continued walking once more.

Word Count: 1'557
Total Word Count: 4'741

Ruvel cared little for what the other had seen, there where many branches of summoning and all the other could likely figure from what he seen was that he was a holder summoner thanks to Seiyuki's charm, this however was far from the case. It was true that a Seiyuki had a charm as a requirement for her summoning, but she was the only one who had such a stipulation the others where merely by cast by their names or sacrificing some additional magic or his health in which he had a dagger that would take only what was needed to call the summons in question; but at current nothing so drastic was needed. He would have to keep in mind at the moment just which summons he used when which put a heavy limitation on him until their masks where done.

Standing he headed back the way he came just wanting this task done so he could get back home, but something in the pit of his stomach made him feel like he had stumbled onto a rabbit hole with no end in sight. Regardless he had accepted a task and would see it through no matter where it took him and with whom, seeing that the other had left the area he decided to walk towards the herbologists home and seen how the other was there walked behind him "My apologies for being tardy miss.." he placed his hand into the dip of his top and pulled out a small folded cloth and held it out to her in both hands "Within it the sample requested with some of the nearby soil" he said calmly, without another word or even glance to the other he turned walking away. As far as he was concerned he had done his task and could go back to the guild. His hand went to his ear once more "Job done, heading back" he said before lowering his hand never stopping.

Word count: 328
Total word count: 5'069