Difference between revisions of "Jade Adventures Part One - RPLOG"
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| − | <div></div><br> <br>It was early morning when the ship had anchored into a small coastal hamlet. It was a trading vessel, so the lodgings weren't the best, and it wasn't bound for Auroon itself, but it was the best bet for getting in without waiting for who knows how long. The sun was just beginning to warm the land and the fog had rolled in thick from the tall forest of trees just outside the village. And it was noisy. Not the noise of beings in a village, which was comparatively quiet this time of day, but the noise of the myriad morning wildlife in the rainforest. Birds and bugs of the non-Being variety chirp and squawk and generally just give off the ambient life. Rixo is just disembarking, stretching out and giving a hearty yawn. "Haven't been to this little town in ages," she says, glancing up and into the fog.<br> <br>Fenris follows Rixo off the boat, carrying her luggage, since he carries none of his own. "I'm not sure this place awas even here last time I was here!" he says amiably, "Where to first, Sensei? Should I find something a little more local to wear?"<br> <br>Taking in a deep breath and letting it out with a quiet sigh, Rixo turns to Fenris and smiles. She packed lightly at least. "There are a lot of little places like this scattered around throughout the forest. In the true spirit of the land, a lot of places just pop up wherever a person of renown decides to kick up their boots. As for where we go first... That is your choice," she says, folding her hands in front of her. "You are the hero of this story. I am simply here to accompany, observe, and guide as needed."<br> <br>Fenris laughs, hefting Rixo's bag on his shoulder. "I always feel better after I've got some local clothes, a little local food in me, and I suppose there must be a local shrine we ought to visit." The tiger takes the lead, sauntering gamely forward toward the tiny settlement.<br> <br>And tiny it was! The buildings numbered such that a being could count them on their fingers. And by their nature, the buildings that served as both home and shop were cloistered near the dock, readily available for the traders coming to and from the seas. Of course, they managed to be near the town exit at the same time, an almost straight road leading from one end to the other. "A shrine? Hmm. Not that I can think of. There are only a few places that come to mind where Creators and worship of the First Text are significant enough to warrant shrines. Shouldn't be too hard to find a place to buy clothes, though. Even a small town like this has a seamstress. Food on the other hand... Well, that's up to anyone you can try to convince to supply a meal! Otherwise we'll probably be hunting our own."<br> <br>Fenris snorts. "Not that kind of shrine," he says, "Like you said, odds are good that there is or was a master of renown here. Always good to pay respects." The tiger looks around and shrugs. "Well," he says, "If there is no chance of a cafe. I guess we had better hunt something down ourselves and we'll see if I can still cook like a Jadelander."<br> <br>"Oh, well! That kind..." Rixo rubs her chin. "We do not often have shrines to the masters, but... I suppose you could visit the home of their descendents and offer your respects that way. That is not unheard of," she says, before glancing around. "And yes, hunting would be the best bet. These small towns to not offer much in the way of accomodations, since there are not many travelers, you see."<br> <br>Fenris nods at Rixo. "You never know if you'll get lucky and learn a thing or two from a retired master, or his students," he says, "But breakfast first!" The tiger fingers his ornate pendant for a second, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. Then he carefully sets Rixo's bag down and slips into the foliage.<br> <br>Rixo shoulders her bag and slips off towards one of the small, open-front shops while she waits for Fenris to return. The foliage is expansive. Once outside of the town, it's just trees and greenery as far as the eyes can see. Which isn't even very far, given all the fog and the density of those trees. Warm and humid, as could be expected from a rainforest.<br> <br>Fenris stands very still as soon as he has found a quiet spot a ways from the trail, listening for the cry of certain birds he remembers from his past travels. He produces a pair of long, thin darts from within his coat. Then he stands in patient silence.<br> <br>The birds are all around! At least, it certainly sounds that way. So many noises and cries of different creatures, and the occasional snap of branches in the distance heralding the frantic flapping of wings of birds escaping a forest predator. One, in particular sounds close, if Fenris has a bind to catch a bird. Within the a few yard radius, most likely.<br> <br>Fenris does not try to look for the bird, knowing that he would be inlikely to see it in the jungle greenery, but breathes out gently before holding his breath and throwing a dart toward the sound of the bird cry with a flick of air magic.<br> <br>As it turns out, Fenris might have been just fine looking for the bird with his eyes. For shortly after the dart is thrown, one of the birds falls silent from the chorus and falls from the tree. It's a brilliant, vivid shade of purple, with long tail feathers. One of the many, largely nameless birds that make up the fauna of the rainforest.<br> <br>"Hmm," Fenris hums, stepping into the brush to retrieve the brightly colored bird, "I think I remember the purple ones being good. Not poisonous anyway." The tiger quickly plucks the beautiful tail feathers from the dead bird, then goes about the work of dressing it with a practiced hand. After he is finished, he murmurs a few words of thanks to the bird, then leaves the offal and the bits he does not want for forest scavengers. Then he strides back toward the path, keeping an eye out for any useful or familiar herbs. "Sensei?" he calls, looking around, "Now we just need somewhere to cook. You don't have any friends around here, do you?"<br> <br>Rixo, by now, was waiting near the town center. Which was mostly just a well that the locals used as the communal watering hole. "You can just call me by name, you know," she says, grinning. "And no, can't say that I do. But I've never met any bad Beings around here. If we have something to offer them in return, I am sure someone would be happy to lend us the use of their kitchen." She holds her arms out, then, presenting a neatly folded outfit of forest green fabric. It was a hunter's garb, done up in the simplistic style that many Jadelands tailors are known for. A green tunic reinforced with dark brown leather in strategic points, and a pair of pants to match. "You did say you wanted some local garb, yes?"<br> <br>Fenris raises the carefully dressed bird with a grin. "That is perfect!" he says, "Thank you. Hold on to it for me until after I get cleaned up." The tiger looks around the square for a likely home with a bit of activity. No need to wake someone. He stands away from the door and calls out a greeting. "Hello!" he calls happily, "We are travelers looking for some hospitality. I have brought a dressed bird as a gift!" | + | <div></div><br> <br>It was early morning when the ship had anchored into a small coastal hamlet. It was a trading vessel, so the lodgings weren't the best, and it wasn't bound for Auroon itself, but it was the best bet for getting in without waiting for who knows how long. The sun was just beginning to warm the land and the fog had rolled in thick from the tall forest of trees just outside the village. And it was noisy. Not the noise of beings in a village, which was comparatively quiet this time of day, but the noise of the myriad morning wildlife in the rainforest. Birds and bugs of the non-Being variety chirp and squawk and generally just give off the ambient life. Rixo is just disembarking, stretching out and giving a hearty yawn. "Haven't been to this little town in ages," she says, glancing up and into the fog.<br> <br>Fenris follows Rixo off the boat, carrying her luggage, since he carries none of his own. "I'm not sure this place awas even here last time I was here!" he says amiably, "Where to first, Sensei? Should I find something a little more local to wear?"<br> <br>Taking in a deep breath and letting it out with a quiet sigh, Rixo turns to Fenris and smiles. She packed lightly at least. "There are a lot of little places like this scattered around throughout the forest. In the true spirit of the land, a lot of places just pop up wherever a person of renown decides to kick up their boots. As for where we go first... That is your choice," she says, folding her hands in front of her. "You are the hero of this story. I am simply here to accompany, observe, and guide as needed."<br> <br>Fenris laughs, hefting Rixo's bag on his shoulder. "I always feel better after I've got some local clothes, a little local food in me, and I suppose there must be a local shrine we ought to visit." The tiger takes the lead, sauntering gamely forward toward the tiny settlement.<br> <br>And tiny it was! The buildings numbered such that a being could count them on their fingers. And by their nature, the buildings that served as both home and shop were cloistered near the dock, readily available for the traders coming to and from the seas. Of course, they managed to be near the town exit at the same time, an almost straight road leading from one end to the other. "A shrine? Hmm. Not that I can think of. There are only a few places that come to mind where Creators and worship of the First Text are significant enough to warrant shrines. Shouldn't be too hard to find a place to buy clothes, though. Even a small town like this has a seamstress. Food on the other hand... Well, that's up to anyone you can try to convince to supply a meal! Otherwise we'll probably be hunting our own."<br> <br>Fenris snorts. "Not that kind of shrine," he says, "Like you said, odds are good that there is or was a master of renown here. Always good to pay respects." The tiger looks around and shrugs. "Well," he says, "If there is no chance of a cafe. I guess we had better hunt something down ourselves and we'll see if I can still cook like a Jadelander."<br> <br>"Oh, well! That kind..." Rixo rubs her chin. "We do not often have shrines to the masters, but... I suppose you could visit the home of their descendents and offer your respects that way. That is not unheard of," she says, before glancing around. "And yes, hunting would be the best bet. These small towns to not offer much in the way of accomodations, since there are not many travelers, you see."<br> <br>Fenris nods at Rixo. "You never know if you'll get lucky and learn a thing or two from a retired master, or his students," he says, "But breakfast first!" The tiger fingers his ornate pendant for a second, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. Then he carefully sets Rixo's bag down and slips into the foliage.<br> <br>Rixo shoulders her bag and slips off towards one of the small, open-front shops while she waits for Fenris to return. The foliage is expansive. Once outside of the town, it's just trees and greenery as far as the eyes can see. Which isn't even very far, given all the fog and the density of those trees. Warm and humid, as could be expected from a rainforest.<br> <br>Fenris stands very still as soon as he has found a quiet spot a ways from the trail, listening for the cry of certain birds he remembers from his past travels. He produces a pair of long, thin darts from within his coat. Then he stands in patient silence.<br> <br>The birds are all around! At least, it certainly sounds that way. So many noises and cries of different creatures, and the occasional snap of branches in the distance heralding the frantic flapping of wings of birds escaping a forest predator. One, in particular sounds close, if Fenris has a bind to catch a bird. Within the a few yard radius, most likely.<br> <br>Fenris does not try to look for the bird, knowing that he would be inlikely to see it in the jungle greenery, but breathes out gently before holding his breath and throwing a dart toward the sound of the bird cry with a flick of air magic.<br> <br>As it turns out, Fenris might have been just fine looking for the bird with his eyes. For shortly after the dart is thrown, one of the birds falls silent from the chorus and falls from the tree. It's a brilliant, vivid shade of purple, with long tail feathers. One of the many, largely nameless birds that make up the fauna of the rainforest.<br> <br>"Hmm," Fenris hums, stepping into the brush to retrieve the brightly colored bird, "I think I remember the purple ones being good. Not poisonous anyway." The tiger quickly plucks the beautiful tail feathers from the dead bird, then goes about the work of dressing it with a practiced hand. After he is finished, he murmurs a few words of thanks to the bird, then leaves the offal and the bits he does not want for forest scavengers. Then he strides back toward the path, keeping an eye out for any useful or familiar herbs. "Sensei?" he calls, looking around, "Now we just need somewhere to cook. You don't have any friends around here, do you?"<br> <br>Rixo, by now, was waiting near the town center. Which was mostly just a well that the locals used as the communal watering hole. "You can just call me by name, you know," she says, grinning. "And no, can't say that I do. But I've never met any bad Beings around here. If we have something to offer them in return, I am sure someone would be happy to lend us the use of their kitchen." She holds her arms out, then, presenting a neatly folded outfit of forest green fabric. It was a hunter's garb, done up in the simplistic style that many Jadelands tailors are known for. A green tunic reinforced with dark brown leather in strategic points, and a pair of pants to match. "You did say you wanted some local garb, yes?"<br> <br>Fenris raises the carefully dressed bird with a grin. "That is perfect!" he says, "Thank you. Hold on to it for me until after I get cleaned up." The tiger looks around the square for a likely home with a bit of activity. No need to wake someone. He stands away from the door and calls out a greeting. "Hello!" he calls happily, "We are travelers looking for some hospitality. I have brought a dressed bird as a gift!"<br> <br>The door swings open, an elderly pangolin woman standing on the other side to appraise the two. "A bird? What kind of hospitality do you seek in return?" she asks. The door was wide open, but she was standing in it. "We do not get too many travelers, but given that bird you may be better off seeking the village fletcher. They can make use of the tail feathers more than I would, but I would not turn down a gift bird."<br> <br>Fenris bows low to the pangolin. "Only the gift of sharing a meal," the tiger says, "My teacher and I are newly arrived and I would like to prepare a breakfast for her and for you. If you would allow me the use of your kitchen and some vegetables." He holds out the colorful tail feathers to the woman. "These are also a gift for you," he says.<br> <br>Rixo gives a bow of her own to the pangolin, but remains silent. "I do not have many vegetables, but you're welcome to use some of them if you wish. But not all of them, please," she adds after a moment, reaching out to take the feathers and stepping back. "This is a suitable arrangement. You may enter." The interior of the house is as simple as the outside. A single floor cabin with a floor of woven bamboo, a worn red rug laid out over it. There's a table with four chairs around it, and it's spacious enough. The decorations are few, and largely consist of things fashioned out of bone, or outright scrimshaws serving as memories of past conquests against great beasts.<br> <br>Fenris bows low again and follows the pangolin into the house. He wipes his paws carefully, then moves to the little kitchen area and starts to prepare the jungle fowl he has killed. He also acquires a little tuber from the kitchens stores and starts to work, collecting utensils and cooking like an old pro. It seems he even has a few packets of spices secreted away in his coat, that he adds to the mix. The savory scent of spices and simmering meat quickly fill the little house. "Give me just a few moments," he says happily, "And thank you for your hospitality."<br> <br>"Of course. Wouldn't be very good beings if we turned away strangers just looking to cook," the Pangolin says, moving to rest at the table. "Besides, you'll need your energy if you plan on taking the road out of town. It's a long walk to... Well. Anywhere else, really."<br> <br>Fenris goes about his business with professional efficiency, cleaning up after himself as he goes. After a short wait, he turns and bows again to their hostess. "The food is ready," he says, "If I could trouble you for plates? And is anyone else at home? There is enough here for five." The tiger waits for instructions before beginning to dish out food. "We are on a pretty fluid journey," he admits, "And if it is a long walk no matter which way, we go, where would you recommend?"<br> <br>"Up there," She replies, gesturing to a cupboard. "And no, not yet. My husband and daughter are still out hunting. My son left long ago on his own adventures. If you have no destination, then it does not matter where you go, truly. Except south. I would advise against that. To the north and west, you will find the path leading to the mountain. If you go north and slightly east along the coast, that will take you to Auroon. And west of here you'll find the tigers and their monastery." The two women tuck into their meals shortly after it is presented, Rixo with a bit more gusto.<br> <br>Fenris carefully covers the remaining food in its pot for the rest of the home's inhabitants, then takes his place at the table. "What is to the south?" the tiger asks, brow furrowed as he tries to remember the geography of the area, "It has been a long time since I was last here. It might be nice to visit the tigers." He digs into his own meal, a sweet and spicy preparation of the jungle bird with accents from the tangy tuber that he added. "The Grandmaster tried to marry me off the last time I was there," he says with a little nostalgic smile.<br> <br>"The south is where the Mistwalkers have their... Business," The Pangolin says with a manner of distaste. "It is unfortunate that it is also where the Golden Eagle Academy resides. But unless you're exceptionally interested in archery, you'd just as well avoid the south entirely," she says, Rixo giving a soft nod of agreement. "They're not a pleasant bunch, to be sure."<br> <br>"Mistwalkers?" Fenris asks, finishing his meal and setting his plate aside, "The name is familiar, but that is all. Who are they? I confess, I never had any reason to visit the Golden Eagle Academy. Are the Mistwalkers sudents?"<br> <br>"They're..." Rixo lifts her shoulders in a shrug, being the one to reply this time as she finished her own meal. The pangolin still working on hers. "They are fine practitioners of their methods, as to be expected. But whereas most people here would value honour and integrity, they value gold and results. Simply put, they are assassins and other ne'er-do-wells."<br> <br>Fenris frowns at the explanation as he retrieves the emptied plates and takes them back to the kitchen to wash. He returns a moment later and bows low once more to their hostess. "We are very grateful for your hospitality," he says, "And for your guidance." He straightens up and smiles at the Pangolin. "Is there anything else I can to to repay your kindness?" he asks.<br> <br>"You have done plenty, thank you. Any good Being of the Jadelands would've done the same," she says, waving a dismissive hand. "If you bump into my family out in the woods, give them a wave I suppose. But we've got a simple life out here. We do not need much."<br> <br>Fenris bows low once more. "Then we will be on our way," he says, "I think it would be good to head west and pay our respects to the Yamauchi family." The tiger takes the parcel of clothing from Rixo and steps outside of the little house to step into the brush to change his clothes.<br> <br>Rixo stands and offers a bow of her own, waiting for Fenris to leave before placing a small silver mark on the table and making hher way out after the tiger. "I have not been to visit the tigers in many years!" She speaks into the brush. "Not since I was just becoming a woman instead of a girl! It will be nice to see them again."<br> <br>Fenris emerges from the brush in his new clothing, his old things wrapped tightly in a bundle hung from his belt. He looks every inch a native. "It will be good to see the old Grand master again," he says, "I do not hear much from the Jadelands when I am so far away. It is hard to keep up with old friend from so far away. Especially when you are supposed to be too old to travel any more."<br> <br>Rixo purses her lips for a moment, nodding and glancing towards the forest. "Well. It's still morning. And it'll be a long walk west, so we'd best get started," the panda says, smiling and stepping over to the well to top off her water skin. "Lead the way, Fenris! Let's see if your travel worn feet still remember how to navigate this jungle," she teases, taking a third blade from her belt. Not one of her swords, but a machete, which she tosses to the tiger.<br> <br>Fenris reaches out a hand to catch the machete out of the air and lays a hand on his pendant, discreetly moving around his soul gems to access useful information. Then the tiger checks his bearings and treks forward into the wilderness. "It is good to be back here," the tiger says, "There is something in the air."<br> <br>"Humidity?" Rixo jokes, snickering as she follows along, folding her hands behind her back once more. "It is nice to be back, yes. It's my homeland, and no matter where I go, this is where I will always end up at once again. But that is the nature of the land. It's nicknamed Adventurer's Last Stop for a reason, after all. For those that roam the land, this is where most come to eventually settle down."<br> <br>Fenris saunters along with an easy stride, only occasionally having to cut his way through a vine that loops across the path. "The last stop?" Fenris asks, a grin sliding across his face, "How odd. It was among my first." The tiger looks over his shoulder at his newest traveling companion. "It is strange to talk like this," he confesses, "Most people have no idea how old I really am. I certainly don't bring it up. If it weren't for you and your surprising connection to my past, I am sure I would never have told you either."<br> <br>"Well, this is the land of adventurers, after all," Rixo says with a smile. "People of all walks of life end up here when life becomes too dull elsewhere and they find like-minded people here. Like minded people that often settle down for their twilight years and have a family. And you know you're going to get some odd looks if people recognize you, yes? And it's nice to know! Albeit... Well. I've seen stranger things, so I'm not put off. You're rather spry though."<br> <br>"You think we can just claim that I have achieved enlightenment?" Fenris asks, "Isn't that supposed to forestall aging? The tiger leads the way, walking in silence for a while, listening to the birds and the sounds of messy, exciting life echoing through the jungle landscape. "You think people will recognize me?" he finally asks, "Should I do something about it? I could claim to be my own son, I guess."<br> <br>"Maybe... It's been a long time, so you're probably fine. We have a family of tigers out here, so I'm sure most wouldn't look twice," Rixo says, pondering. "My father might recognize you. And anyone you've had significant interaction with in the past may." She falls quiet, then, looking up to the sunlight canopy. The fog is gone now, and the sky is hardly visible, but the green fronds are illuminated by the sun and provide ample light all the same.<br> <br>"Should I dye my hair?" he asks, "My stripes are different now, you know. Only they are different under my shirt where most people don't see." He walks easily through the undergrowth, checking his bearing from time to time. "I know the Yamauchi family pretty well, actually," he says, "Master Yamauchi was my teacher for nearly as long as your father was my Grand Master. Tried to convince me to stay and marry his daughter."<br> <br>Rixo turns her eyes back down towards Fenris, watching the back of his head for a moment. "Ah, well then. This should be quite a reunion," she says quietly. "We should be out of the rain forest in an hour or so more of walking, I think. From there... Well. You know the view," she comments, casting a brief look north, catching a glimpse of the towering snowy peaks through a crack in the canopy.<br> <br>"I'm sure the old man will understand," he says, then pauses, "He will be an old man by now, won't he. I hadn't really thought about it." The tiger continues to walk, nodding at Rixo's projection, moving on from thinking about his old mentor. "What are things like in Auroon, these days?" he asks, making conversation.<br> <br>"Yes, I am sure," Rixo murmurs, brushing her hair back and working on pulling it into her braid as the pair travel, the forest starting to grow a little thinner with the passing of steps and time. "Oh, they're largely the same. The Stouthorn family continues to maintain the palace throne, while the other families continue to have their representatives on the Royal Hand. Politically, all is as it was when you left. On the streets themselves, same thing... Presumably. I do not know what has changed since YOU were last there, you know. But I know things are fairly similar to how they've always been as I was growing up. New faces come and go."<br> <br>"Sounds like Auroon," Fenris says, "Four hundred years of history and most of it a repetition of itself." He takes a whack at a thick vine crossing what could charitably be called a trail. "All the really interesting things are too small to get into the history books," he says, "All the real living happens outside of the palaces and the courts." The tiger's mind seems to be elsewhere while he talks. Maybe thinking about the Yamauchi familt still.<br> <br>"It certainly is. Everyone lives interesting day to day lives," Rixo says, nodding. "But the books would be too large should it all be recorded. We're a land of people striving for the next big thing. And when someone makes it, that is what we remember. Every small town has their own independent history of deeds. But in Auroon? Only the biggest. The usual tournaments still happen. One of our disciples won the last one, you know," she comments a hint of pride in her voice before she moves on. "The silk farms are booming lately. Crop yields have been excellent, and we've been working on establishing new trade routes thanks to Captain Rafal. There are many things going on, truly. But not all of them are big enough to be worth mentioning to an esteemed adventurer like you!"<br> <br>Fenris turns and waves a finger in admonishment. "No," he says, "I am only your lowly student! You are the teacher and you get to decide what is important." The tiger grins and continues to lead the way. "Tell me about Captain Rafal," he says, "I don't think I have heard much about this brave legend of the sea!" He twitches an ear at the mention of the tournament. "And tell me about your big winner!" he says, "I hear that a Snowmark won the big tournament out in Caldera."<br> <br>Rixo grins at that and shrugs. "We are not in a monastery. My teaching role is largely non-standard here, until we are! Less work on strikes and maneuvers and more guide and traveling companion. But... As you wish! I have not met Rafal, myself. He is water folk, as to be expected, and an otter of small family name. Their family has long since worked for ours, though, working the trade. He was runner up in a previous tournament and used his winnings to finance his own, personal ship. Which he used to follow up on a personal project, as I understand it. And in doing so, he found a better sea route to other waters, and it brought some recognition, as all of the nation will benefit from is discovery." She folds her arms, then. "The tournament was won by Ferdinand of the Graceful Clan, triumphing over Haafgar of the Heavy Clan."<br> <br>"I always felt that you people got confused too easily about what it was you were teaching in those monasteries," he says, "Fighting is the least important thing I ever learned from any teacher of martial arts." He pushes ahead as he talks. "Ferdinand?" he asks, "No relative of yours, I am guessing? I don't seem to remember the name."<br> <br>Rixo shakes her head and reaches out to poke Fenris on the back of the head. "It is not about fighting. That is not why we practice strikes and technique. It's about discipline and self perfection. We practice it til we can do it without flaw. It promotes unity of body and mind, and the health of both. A false mind gives way to a false fist, and that is why we practice. We must attain a height of both physical and mental perfection. And no, he's no relative of mine. He's an ocelot. Quite a bit different to the pandas of my line."<br> <br>Fenris takes the poking goodnaturedly. "So you HAVE listened to your father's lectures!" the tiger grins, "Reminds me why I like this place so much better than Cliffside. The spirit invested in everything. The pride in excellence. It makes me happy." He stops as the trees start to thin and daylight once more starts to penetrate the canopy. "How far do you think it is to get to the Yamauchi monastery from here?" he asks.<br> <br>Not much further apparently. Well, that was not true. It looked a while off, but you could see it! Emergeing from the rain forest, the sun was a bit lower in the sky than it was when they went in, and the trees are gone, allowing unobscured sight across the brilliant green plains of the Jadeland Valley. And far in the distance, with its back against the cliffs of the far mountain rain, was the monastery. It was a clear sight from up on the hill, and it gave a great image of just how far it was. "We should reach it by nightfall," Rixo says with a grin, stretching out. "Fortunately, they will have beds and food, which I am looking forward to taking part of. And of course I listen. It is still fighting of course, but instead of emphasis on what we fight, I think about why we fight. What is worth fighting for. Fighting for friends, honour, family, our world. For personal betterment. For a good drink."<br> <br>Fenris nods solemnly. "An excellent lesson, Sensei," he says, then breaks into a grin, "Come on, time for a jog." He tosses the borrowed machete back to Rixo and pats the slight roundness to his belly. "It takes a lot of work to get time to pass you by," he says, "Hop to it!" Then the tiger breaks into a brisk jog, now that they are out of the jungle undergrowth, heading toward the distant monastery.<br> <br>Rixo catches the machete and tucks it back into its scabbard with a grunt. "That was a light breakfast and I'm a big bear. It's hard to run on an empty stomach," she protests, but run she does! Jogging after Fenris. "The women of my family age gracefully enough that I am not so concerned! I prefer to slow down and savour life, you know."<br> <br>"We won't run forever," Fenris calls, still jogging briskly, "Just enough to warrant a rest soon!" The tiger points ahead to a distant river. "We can catch something for lunch," he promises, "I am not such a bad cook, you know."[[Category:RPLogs]] |
Latest revision as of 22:59, 24 May 2016
Participants
Date
24/5/479
Log
It was early morning when the ship had anchored into a small coastal hamlet. It was a trading vessel, so the lodgings weren't the best, and it wasn't bound for Auroon itself, but it was the best bet for getting in without waiting for who knows how long. The sun was just beginning to warm the land and the fog had rolled in thick from the tall forest of trees just outside the village. And it was noisy. Not the noise of beings in a village, which was comparatively quiet this time of day, but the noise of the myriad morning wildlife in the rainforest. Birds and bugs of the non-Being variety chirp and squawk and generally just give off the ambient life. Rixo is just disembarking, stretching out and giving a hearty yawn. "Haven't been to this little town in ages," she says, glancing up and into the fog.
Fenris follows Rixo off the boat, carrying her luggage, since he carries none of his own. "I'm not sure this place awas even here last time I was here!" he says amiably, "Where to first, Sensei? Should I find something a little more local to wear?"
Taking in a deep breath and letting it out with a quiet sigh, Rixo turns to Fenris and smiles. She packed lightly at least. "There are a lot of little places like this scattered around throughout the forest. In the true spirit of the land, a lot of places just pop up wherever a person of renown decides to kick up their boots. As for where we go first... That is your choice," she says, folding her hands in front of her. "You are the hero of this story. I am simply here to accompany, observe, and guide as needed."
Fenris laughs, hefting Rixo's bag on his shoulder. "I always feel better after I've got some local clothes, a little local food in me, and I suppose there must be a local shrine we ought to visit." The tiger takes the lead, sauntering gamely forward toward the tiny settlement.
And tiny it was! The buildings numbered such that a being could count them on their fingers. And by their nature, the buildings that served as both home and shop were cloistered near the dock, readily available for the traders coming to and from the seas. Of course, they managed to be near the town exit at the same time, an almost straight road leading from one end to the other. "A shrine? Hmm. Not that I can think of. There are only a few places that come to mind where Creators and worship of the First Text are significant enough to warrant shrines. Shouldn't be too hard to find a place to buy clothes, though. Even a small town like this has a seamstress. Food on the other hand... Well, that's up to anyone you can try to convince to supply a meal! Otherwise we'll probably be hunting our own."
Fenris snorts. "Not that kind of shrine," he says, "Like you said, odds are good that there is or was a master of renown here. Always good to pay respects." The tiger looks around and shrugs. "Well," he says, "If there is no chance of a cafe. I guess we had better hunt something down ourselves and we'll see if I can still cook like a Jadelander."
"Oh, well! That kind..." Rixo rubs her chin. "We do not often have shrines to the masters, but... I suppose you could visit the home of their descendents and offer your respects that way. That is not unheard of," she says, before glancing around. "And yes, hunting would be the best bet. These small towns to not offer much in the way of accomodations, since there are not many travelers, you see."
Fenris nods at Rixo. "You never know if you'll get lucky and learn a thing or two from a retired master, or his students," he says, "But breakfast first!" The tiger fingers his ornate pendant for a second, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. Then he carefully sets Rixo's bag down and slips into the foliage.
Rixo shoulders her bag and slips off towards one of the small, open-front shops while she waits for Fenris to return. The foliage is expansive. Once outside of the town, it's just trees and greenery as far as the eyes can see. Which isn't even very far, given all the fog and the density of those trees. Warm and humid, as could be expected from a rainforest.
Fenris stands very still as soon as he has found a quiet spot a ways from the trail, listening for the cry of certain birds he remembers from his past travels. He produces a pair of long, thin darts from within his coat. Then he stands in patient silence.
The birds are all around! At least, it certainly sounds that way. So many noises and cries of different creatures, and the occasional snap of branches in the distance heralding the frantic flapping of wings of birds escaping a forest predator. One, in particular sounds close, if Fenris has a bind to catch a bird. Within the a few yard radius, most likely.
Fenris does not try to look for the bird, knowing that he would be inlikely to see it in the jungle greenery, but breathes out gently before holding his breath and throwing a dart toward the sound of the bird cry with a flick of air magic.
As it turns out, Fenris might have been just fine looking for the bird with his eyes. For shortly after the dart is thrown, one of the birds falls silent from the chorus and falls from the tree. It's a brilliant, vivid shade of purple, with long tail feathers. One of the many, largely nameless birds that make up the fauna of the rainforest.
"Hmm," Fenris hums, stepping into the brush to retrieve the brightly colored bird, "I think I remember the purple ones being good. Not poisonous anyway." The tiger quickly plucks the beautiful tail feathers from the dead bird, then goes about the work of dressing it with a practiced hand. After he is finished, he murmurs a few words of thanks to the bird, then leaves the offal and the bits he does not want for forest scavengers. Then he strides back toward the path, keeping an eye out for any useful or familiar herbs. "Sensei?" he calls, looking around, "Now we just need somewhere to cook. You don't have any friends around here, do you?"
Rixo, by now, was waiting near the town center. Which was mostly just a well that the locals used as the communal watering hole. "You can just call me by name, you know," she says, grinning. "And no, can't say that I do. But I've never met any bad Beings around here. If we have something to offer them in return, I am sure someone would be happy to lend us the use of their kitchen." She holds her arms out, then, presenting a neatly folded outfit of forest green fabric. It was a hunter's garb, done up in the simplistic style that many Jadelands tailors are known for. A green tunic reinforced with dark brown leather in strategic points, and a pair of pants to match. "You did say you wanted some local garb, yes?"
Fenris raises the carefully dressed bird with a grin. "That is perfect!" he says, "Thank you. Hold on to it for me until after I get cleaned up." The tiger looks around the square for a likely home with a bit of activity. No need to wake someone. He stands away from the door and calls out a greeting. "Hello!" he calls happily, "We are travelers looking for some hospitality. I have brought a dressed bird as a gift!"
The door swings open, an elderly pangolin woman standing on the other side to appraise the two. "A bird? What kind of hospitality do you seek in return?" she asks. The door was wide open, but she was standing in it. "We do not get too many travelers, but given that bird you may be better off seeking the village fletcher. They can make use of the tail feathers more than I would, but I would not turn down a gift bird."
Fenris bows low to the pangolin. "Only the gift of sharing a meal," the tiger says, "My teacher and I are newly arrived and I would like to prepare a breakfast for her and for you. If you would allow me the use of your kitchen and some vegetables." He holds out the colorful tail feathers to the woman. "These are also a gift for you," he says.
Rixo gives a bow of her own to the pangolin, but remains silent. "I do not have many vegetables, but you're welcome to use some of them if you wish. But not all of them, please," she adds after a moment, reaching out to take the feathers and stepping back. "This is a suitable arrangement. You may enter." The interior of the house is as simple as the outside. A single floor cabin with a floor of woven bamboo, a worn red rug laid out over it. There's a table with four chairs around it, and it's spacious enough. The decorations are few, and largely consist of things fashioned out of bone, or outright scrimshaws serving as memories of past conquests against great beasts.
Fenris bows low again and follows the pangolin into the house. He wipes his paws carefully, then moves to the little kitchen area and starts to prepare the jungle fowl he has killed. He also acquires a little tuber from the kitchens stores and starts to work, collecting utensils and cooking like an old pro. It seems he even has a few packets of spices secreted away in his coat, that he adds to the mix. The savory scent of spices and simmering meat quickly fill the little house. "Give me just a few moments," he says happily, "And thank you for your hospitality."
"Of course. Wouldn't be very good beings if we turned away strangers just looking to cook," the Pangolin says, moving to rest at the table. "Besides, you'll need your energy if you plan on taking the road out of town. It's a long walk to... Well. Anywhere else, really."
Fenris goes about his business with professional efficiency, cleaning up after himself as he goes. After a short wait, he turns and bows again to their hostess. "The food is ready," he says, "If I could trouble you for plates? And is anyone else at home? There is enough here for five." The tiger waits for instructions before beginning to dish out food. "We are on a pretty fluid journey," he admits, "And if it is a long walk no matter which way, we go, where would you recommend?"
"Up there," She replies, gesturing to a cupboard. "And no, not yet. My husband and daughter are still out hunting. My son left long ago on his own adventures. If you have no destination, then it does not matter where you go, truly. Except south. I would advise against that. To the north and west, you will find the path leading to the mountain. If you go north and slightly east along the coast, that will take you to Auroon. And west of here you'll find the tigers and their monastery." The two women tuck into their meals shortly after it is presented, Rixo with a bit more gusto.
Fenris carefully covers the remaining food in its pot for the rest of the home's inhabitants, then takes his place at the table. "What is to the south?" the tiger asks, brow furrowed as he tries to remember the geography of the area, "It has been a long time since I was last here. It might be nice to visit the tigers." He digs into his own meal, a sweet and spicy preparation of the jungle bird with accents from the tangy tuber that he added. "The Grandmaster tried to marry me off the last time I was there," he says with a little nostalgic smile.
"The south is where the Mistwalkers have their... Business," The Pangolin says with a manner of distaste. "It is unfortunate that it is also where the Golden Eagle Academy resides. But unless you're exceptionally interested in archery, you'd just as well avoid the south entirely," she says, Rixo giving a soft nod of agreement. "They're not a pleasant bunch, to be sure."
"Mistwalkers?" Fenris asks, finishing his meal and setting his plate aside, "The name is familiar, but that is all. Who are they? I confess, I never had any reason to visit the Golden Eagle Academy. Are the Mistwalkers sudents?"
"They're..." Rixo lifts her shoulders in a shrug, being the one to reply this time as she finished her own meal. The pangolin still working on hers. "They are fine practitioners of their methods, as to be expected. But whereas most people here would value honour and integrity, they value gold and results. Simply put, they are assassins and other ne'er-do-wells."
Fenris frowns at the explanation as he retrieves the emptied plates and takes them back to the kitchen to wash. He returns a moment later and bows low once more to their hostess. "We are very grateful for your hospitality," he says, "And for your guidance." He straightens up and smiles at the Pangolin. "Is there anything else I can to to repay your kindness?" he asks.
"You have done plenty, thank you. Any good Being of the Jadelands would've done the same," she says, waving a dismissive hand. "If you bump into my family out in the woods, give them a wave I suppose. But we've got a simple life out here. We do not need much."
Fenris bows low once more. "Then we will be on our way," he says, "I think it would be good to head west and pay our respects to the Yamauchi family." The tiger takes the parcel of clothing from Rixo and steps outside of the little house to step into the brush to change his clothes.
Rixo stands and offers a bow of her own, waiting for Fenris to leave before placing a small silver mark on the table and making hher way out after the tiger. "I have not been to visit the tigers in many years!" She speaks into the brush. "Not since I was just becoming a woman instead of a girl! It will be nice to see them again."
Fenris emerges from the brush in his new clothing, his old things wrapped tightly in a bundle hung from his belt. He looks every inch a native. "It will be good to see the old Grand master again," he says, "I do not hear much from the Jadelands when I am so far away. It is hard to keep up with old friend from so far away. Especially when you are supposed to be too old to travel any more."
Rixo purses her lips for a moment, nodding and glancing towards the forest. "Well. It's still morning. And it'll be a long walk west, so we'd best get started," the panda says, smiling and stepping over to the well to top off her water skin. "Lead the way, Fenris! Let's see if your travel worn feet still remember how to navigate this jungle," she teases, taking a third blade from her belt. Not one of her swords, but a machete, which she tosses to the tiger.
Fenris reaches out a hand to catch the machete out of the air and lays a hand on his pendant, discreetly moving around his soul gems to access useful information. Then the tiger checks his bearings and treks forward into the wilderness. "It is good to be back here," the tiger says, "There is something in the air."
"Humidity?" Rixo jokes, snickering as she follows along, folding her hands behind her back once more. "It is nice to be back, yes. It's my homeland, and no matter where I go, this is where I will always end up at once again. But that is the nature of the land. It's nicknamed Adventurer's Last Stop for a reason, after all. For those that roam the land, this is where most come to eventually settle down."
Fenris saunters along with an easy stride, only occasionally having to cut his way through a vine that loops across the path. "The last stop?" Fenris asks, a grin sliding across his face, "How odd. It was among my first." The tiger looks over his shoulder at his newest traveling companion. "It is strange to talk like this," he confesses, "Most people have no idea how old I really am. I certainly don't bring it up. If it weren't for you and your surprising connection to my past, I am sure I would never have told you either."
"Well, this is the land of adventurers, after all," Rixo says with a smile. "People of all walks of life end up here when life becomes too dull elsewhere and they find like-minded people here. Like minded people that often settle down for their twilight years and have a family. And you know you're going to get some odd looks if people recognize you, yes? And it's nice to know! Albeit... Well. I've seen stranger things, so I'm not put off. You're rather spry though."
"You think we can just claim that I have achieved enlightenment?" Fenris asks, "Isn't that supposed to forestall aging? The tiger leads the way, walking in silence for a while, listening to the birds and the sounds of messy, exciting life echoing through the jungle landscape. "You think people will recognize me?" he finally asks, "Should I do something about it? I could claim to be my own son, I guess."
"Maybe... It's been a long time, so you're probably fine. We have a family of tigers out here, so I'm sure most wouldn't look twice," Rixo says, pondering. "My father might recognize you. And anyone you've had significant interaction with in the past may." She falls quiet, then, looking up to the sunlight canopy. The fog is gone now, and the sky is hardly visible, but the green fronds are illuminated by the sun and provide ample light all the same.
"Should I dye my hair?" he asks, "My stripes are different now, you know. Only they are different under my shirt where most people don't see." He walks easily through the undergrowth, checking his bearing from time to time. "I know the Yamauchi family pretty well, actually," he says, "Master Yamauchi was my teacher for nearly as long as your father was my Grand Master. Tried to convince me to stay and marry his daughter."
Rixo turns her eyes back down towards Fenris, watching the back of his head for a moment. "Ah, well then. This should be quite a reunion," she says quietly. "We should be out of the rain forest in an hour or so more of walking, I think. From there... Well. You know the view," she comments, casting a brief look north, catching a glimpse of the towering snowy peaks through a crack in the canopy.
"I'm sure the old man will understand," he says, then pauses, "He will be an old man by now, won't he. I hadn't really thought about it." The tiger continues to walk, nodding at Rixo's projection, moving on from thinking about his old mentor. "What are things like in Auroon, these days?" he asks, making conversation.
"Yes, I am sure," Rixo murmurs, brushing her hair back and working on pulling it into her braid as the pair travel, the forest starting to grow a little thinner with the passing of steps and time. "Oh, they're largely the same. The Stouthorn family continues to maintain the palace throne, while the other families continue to have their representatives on the Royal Hand. Politically, all is as it was when you left. On the streets themselves, same thing... Presumably. I do not know what has changed since YOU were last there, you know. But I know things are fairly similar to how they've always been as I was growing up. New faces come and go."
"Sounds like Auroon," Fenris says, "Four hundred years of history and most of it a repetition of itself." He takes a whack at a thick vine crossing what could charitably be called a trail. "All the really interesting things are too small to get into the history books," he says, "All the real living happens outside of the palaces and the courts." The tiger's mind seems to be elsewhere while he talks. Maybe thinking about the Yamauchi familt still.
"It certainly is. Everyone lives interesting day to day lives," Rixo says, nodding. "But the books would be too large should it all be recorded. We're a land of people striving for the next big thing. And when someone makes it, that is what we remember. Every small town has their own independent history of deeds. But in Auroon? Only the biggest. The usual tournaments still happen. One of our disciples won the last one, you know," she comments a hint of pride in her voice before she moves on. "The silk farms are booming lately. Crop yields have been excellent, and we've been working on establishing new trade routes thanks to Captain Rafal. There are many things going on, truly. But not all of them are big enough to be worth mentioning to an esteemed adventurer like you!"
Fenris turns and waves a finger in admonishment. "No," he says, "I am only your lowly student! You are the teacher and you get to decide what is important." The tiger grins and continues to lead the way. "Tell me about Captain Rafal," he says, "I don't think I have heard much about this brave legend of the sea!" He twitches an ear at the mention of the tournament. "And tell me about your big winner!" he says, "I hear that a Snowmark won the big tournament out in Caldera."
Rixo grins at that and shrugs. "We are not in a monastery. My teaching role is largely non-standard here, until we are! Less work on strikes and maneuvers and more guide and traveling companion. But... As you wish! I have not met Rafal, myself. He is water folk, as to be expected, and an otter of small family name. Their family has long since worked for ours, though, working the trade. He was runner up in a previous tournament and used his winnings to finance his own, personal ship. Which he used to follow up on a personal project, as I understand it. And in doing so, he found a better sea route to other waters, and it brought some recognition, as all of the nation will benefit from is discovery." She folds her arms, then. "The tournament was won by Ferdinand of the Graceful Clan, triumphing over Haafgar of the Heavy Clan."
"I always felt that you people got confused too easily about what it was you were teaching in those monasteries," he says, "Fighting is the least important thing I ever learned from any teacher of martial arts." He pushes ahead as he talks. "Ferdinand?" he asks, "No relative of yours, I am guessing? I don't seem to remember the name."
Rixo shakes her head and reaches out to poke Fenris on the back of the head. "It is not about fighting. That is not why we practice strikes and technique. It's about discipline and self perfection. We practice it til we can do it without flaw. It promotes unity of body and mind, and the health of both. A false mind gives way to a false fist, and that is why we practice. We must attain a height of both physical and mental perfection. And no, he's no relative of mine. He's an ocelot. Quite a bit different to the pandas of my line."
Fenris takes the poking goodnaturedly. "So you HAVE listened to your father's lectures!" the tiger grins, "Reminds me why I like this place so much better than Cliffside. The spirit invested in everything. The pride in excellence. It makes me happy." He stops as the trees start to thin and daylight once more starts to penetrate the canopy. "How far do you think it is to get to the Yamauchi monastery from here?" he asks.
Not much further apparently. Well, that was not true. It looked a while off, but you could see it! Emergeing from the rain forest, the sun was a bit lower in the sky than it was when they went in, and the trees are gone, allowing unobscured sight across the brilliant green plains of the Jadeland Valley. And far in the distance, with its back against the cliffs of the far mountain rain, was the monastery. It was a clear sight from up on the hill, and it gave a great image of just how far it was. "We should reach it by nightfall," Rixo says with a grin, stretching out. "Fortunately, they will have beds and food, which I am looking forward to taking part of. And of course I listen. It is still fighting of course, but instead of emphasis on what we fight, I think about why we fight. What is worth fighting for. Fighting for friends, honour, family, our world. For personal betterment. For a good drink."
Fenris nods solemnly. "An excellent lesson, Sensei," he says, then breaks into a grin, "Come on, time for a jog." He tosses the borrowed machete back to Rixo and pats the slight roundness to his belly. "It takes a lot of work to get time to pass you by," he says, "Hop to it!" Then the tiger breaks into a brisk jog, now that they are out of the jungle undergrowth, heading toward the distant monastery.
Rixo catches the machete and tucks it back into its scabbard with a grunt. "That was a light breakfast and I'm a big bear. It's hard to run on an empty stomach," she protests, but run she does! Jogging after Fenris. "The women of my family age gracefully enough that I am not so concerned! I prefer to slow down and savour life, you know."
"We won't run forever," Fenris calls, still jogging briskly, "Just enough to warrant a rest soon!" The tiger points ahead to a distant river. "We can catch something for lunch," he promises, "I am not such a bad cook, you know."
