Toyotama-hime's musical ritual. [Quest]

Stage Hands

Although normally focusing on his work as a supporter in his adventures, every so often he'd wonder forth to the quest board and claim what is available at the time. First and foremost as a more steady income and more reliable flow of coin. Secondly as a chance to expand and add to his list of skill sets. Thus today he found himself once more upon the board, wandering over the various options he'd think. Another hunting quest, one to rid the world of slimes, another for a delivery. No, none of them were appealing to him for one reason or another, yet after a few minutes, he'd notice it.

The one quest to outshine the rest; a help wanted flier. It was a flyer asking for assistance; two stage hand wanted to help with Toyotama-hime's musical ritual. Now he hadn't really done much stage work but luckily this only asked for abled bodies and no real work experience seemed required. So he'd snag the sign and smile asking the agent available to assign him to said quest; moments later he'd receive his permission granting him approval for said task and he'd make haste towards the entertainment quarters.

Normally he'd stick to the more traditional work, but this sort of labor seemed to give more, at least in his mind. Not only would he get a new experience or would he be given a chance to work closely with others; more likely to be kind. But he could take the time to make friends and meet new people. something he failed to do in the mines and something arguably the dungeon delving as too cut throat for. None the less the thought excited him, though logically speaking he did it for many reasons. One of the prominent reasons, of course, being the simple factor that gods enjoyed entertainment.

His logic was that although anyone can swing a sword or do a quest in honor of the gods. Truth was, not all of them cared for combat and if he was trying to appeal to a god or goddess. He'd need to appeal to them in some manner of speaking outside combat; thus the theater seemed most logical. Although he wasn't performing. The mere fact he'd assist and help make sure that the play happened, to begin with, might appease a god to some degree. This also might be a chance for him to meet the most cultured gods and see what life is like outside his usual bruting nature.

So he'd soon arrive there just short of the location where they were supposed to meet, the amphitheater or opera house, whatever you honestly preferred to call it. After all, a rose smelled the same no matter the name. Lips curling into a smile he'd move forth, it felt odd seeing this part of the city so dead and dull; compared to the nightlife it would be hard to believe it ever died off. None the less he'd now stand before the one who appeared to be giving orders, a faint smile passing as he gazed about to the others who were helping.

While directions were given he'd smile and listen attentively. It appeared their first task s stage hands were to move the props to the specified location backstage; sorting them out by scene. This meant those already made and then assisting with those just finished or in the works. But after much more thorough and defined instructions for each task needed they were all dismissed. Turning to another; a shorter and younger looking elf he'd part his lips.

"This is gonna be fun huh? They already want to split us up and divide the work, at least their goals are clear and defined. Good thing I don't mind heavy lifting. Oh, the name's Damion DeAndre, what about you kiddo?"​

He'd ask curiously teasing the kid some expecting a name at some point. None the less he'd motioning him to follow as he began to lift and move some of the props needed to the back; lifting with his legs and putting his muscular body to use. Eyes focused on the boy he'd arched a brow as he continued his conversation some; now talking instead of listening.

"So what made you take this quest, why spend your time here instead of working somewhere with better pay or adventuring?"​

He'd ask some placing down the prop where it was to go, his body shifting as to return and grab the next few sets of the props and move them. He saw no harm and talking while he worked; he did it at the mines all the time to pass the time and distract himself.

"So tell me about yourself kiddo, for instance, you appear to be an elf of sorts. What's your story, here in the city in hopes of becoming famous? No, maybe your here to be an actor huh. That why your here in the theater? I can dig that, a famous elf actor. That in itself is a feat, although I'm not sure how that would fare, most elves live for a long time, sure would be one hell of a career."​

He'd chuckle to himself at the mere thought of it. Entertaining, to say the least, yet as his attention shifted back to his work he'd listen to whatever the male had to say. Once more lifting the heavy props, only this time he'd point to the other end of the large wooden prop; used for scenery he'd ask for assistance from the boy.

"Mind grabbing that side? I'm not too sure where this goes but I know they said to move this stuff up to the back of the stage."​

He'd say as he motioned for him to grab it so they could set it up in the background. Unsure where exactly it was to go he'd let the boy lead. Perhaps he had more experience in this sort of field. None the less the male had apparently met what could be his first friend in a long time; despite what his age might be he'd make the best of it.

@Soren Kalamalos

 

Stage Hands

As the male continued to contribute to the cause that was the play; lifting and moving things he'd hit the boy with some questions; most of which he appeared to answer relatively easily and quite quick at that. A brow would arch as he mentioned not reading the entire flier and why he was truly there. Yep, he was definitely inexperienced, his youthful appearance wasn't just that of the innocent, but one that lacked discipline. Well, at least this lesson would be one a lot less harsh than most learned in dungeons. Yet when he spoke of being a supporter, he didn't just have his curiosity; no now he had his attention.

"Wow, didn't think a kid like you would be a supporter like myself; either way it's a pleasure to meet you, Soren. I guess it's just in our nature to want to help others huh. Sure as hell beats the ideology we are just bottom feeders. But I can understand the desire to get experience outside of a few spots. I know a few friends who hadn't and put all their eggs in one basket. It makes job hunting harder as you can't do much or lack experience elsewhere. Personally, I use to work in the mines and occasionally help out in my father's shop. He is a black smith, so I know the pains of stress; even more so the desire to not fall into line like a common soldier. So no sweat kiddo, your not alone I can totally relate." ​

He'd say with a wink as the boy continued to aid moving materials the two carrying them. Listening to his response in return about why he was here he'd raise a hand to wave as he noted the boys uncomfortable reaction and look upon trying to answer, dropping the prop on his foot.

"SHIT!"​

He'd shout; the proper fine but his toe in a bit of pain. Before he fell back and looked to the male waving his hands.

"I'm fine, thankfully this didn't break. But yea, sorry to pry. It's fine you didn't have to share. Sorry if that was a touchy subject. All that matters is your here now right?"​

He'd say once more picking up the item in question and moving it towards the desired spot. Heading back with a minor discomfort, he'd eventually rid his pain altogether a few minutes later and a few trips in. As he made it back to a large prop asking for aid he'd notice the boy eagerly rushing over to help lift the prop in question. Lifting together stopping mid lift he'd set it back down.

"Hey, listen up kiddo, you're putting too much strain on your back. Never lift that way, it will only kill you in the long run. Instead, look watch what I do."​

He'd say walking over to lift another prop; of stone. Stance spreading a bit he'd squat down and lift up with his back straight and used his legs. Lifting it he'd move it with easy showing the boy proper lifting etiquette. His body soon putting the prop down before the boy as he walked up behind the boy adjusting his stance,

"Now you lift this, it might seem super heavy at first but if you lift it right you would be surprised how much stronger you are. Most of the time folks fail to lift something or reach their proper limits based on improper technique and cause their backs to give out. So let see if you can lift this one first, we'll come back to that larger one after. Let me grab the other one."​

He'd say as he grabbed the other identical pillar-like prop for the set. Lifting it properly he'd motion for the boy to follow. Placing it at an angle some as he squatted and lift another; he'd carry both over his shoulder with some ease. His natural strength and vitality showing itself as he wasn't even remotely tired after placing them down and looking over to the boy. Motioning him to follow and assist with what they were trying once more; hoping the object wasn't as heavy. If not manageable after dealing wth something far heavier but less awkward.

"Seem easier now? Bet you wish you knew this sort of thing when you were down in the dungeons; it's really useful. Some adventurers rehire me just based on that skill alone. You'd be surprised how much extra you can carry, I'd say if you practice and keep at it, you'd be able to carry an easy 25% more weight."​

He'd say awaiting clearance from the kid before they'd carry it up and finished the task at hand. As time passed the duo would easily move the rest of the props where they needed. By this point, they'd now be all set, yet now as time passed more proper were being finished and needed to be set up; such as curtains and wooden ships and all sorts of minor props, turning to the kid a forced smile would pass as he laughed some.

"Just when you think you're done, they keep pulling you back in huh? Well no point in crying about honest work, let's just get it done and see what else they got for us right? I mean the show must go on. Imagine the delight of a god's face upon seeing all our hard work. Speaking of, hope it ain't being to nosey but have you found a god?"​

He asked curiously as they returned to moving some minor props, his tone once more shifting to the curiosity that was his mind. The boy was an elf, weren't they usually religious if not very fond of the gods. What god would an elf choose? Outside those of the mine again, he knew little about customs and what other races did. The most diversity he saw was the dwarfs and occasional lycan who worked with them occasionally. But when it came to the dungeons everyone was rather secretive about that sort of thing, but a few shared words among the two couldn't hurt. He'd even opt for sharing first.

"I haven't quite figured it out myself nor chosen a god. So I guess you could say I'm son heathen."​

He'd say jokingly as he hoped to bring some ease to the boy and just keep it a calm and fun time while they worked hard. His eye fixated on the kid he'd pause all together as he parted his lips once more perhaps trying to prevent any discomfort in their conversation.

"We...we don't have to talk about it if you don't want. But, I'd like to learn more about you Soren, you seem like a cool kid. A bit wet behind the ears but hell, no reason we can't be friends and help each other out; I mean the more you know the more valuable you are in our society no?"​

He'd say warmly trying to keep positive and make the boy feel welcomed.

@Soren Kalamalos

 

Stage Hands

As the actions followed through from the chatter to the mishaps to even the teaching of proper lifting the kid was a natural and a quick learner. This would take him far in life. Yet upon completing the work already assigned they'd be met with the work that wasn't ready to move at the time but had slowly begun to pile up. Eyes shifting he'd tap his chin some as he stopped; when the boy revealed the god of choice. By this point he hadn't met many and this was one of the reasons for him doing this task to begin with. His lips would curl as he spoke.

"Briareus? Huh, sounds like a nice god. At least he isn't discriminatory. That's always a good sign right. Might have to meet them at some point get to know them personally. He may be a viable candidate; although I don't plan to jump into any family just yet; I want to experience and get to know them personally."​

He'd say noting the boy smile some; the first time yet. So this god must have made quite the lasting impression. That or perhaps he had some stronger feeling towards the god; either way it was none of his business as he smiled back. Helping move what little remained of the smaller props. Yet he'd note his comment about the boys past causing some discomfort perhaps not in his facial features but based on his reaction and voice. He wasn't the brightest tool in the shed but growing up working in his father's shop gave him plenty of time to learn how to read people. A skill he was good at and this boy showed signs of discomfort. Perhaps not blatantly but enough to warrant attention, but enough that he might subtly give some hints.

"Alright, man if you're sure. Well for starters got any family here besides yourself. Maybe your mom, dad. Hot older sister who is single and into humans?"​

He'd say joking some but being somewhat serious as he had a thing for elven woman, the beauty, the physique and the way the presented themselves. The thought alone of the possibility made him blush some as he shook his head.

"Sorry about that little man, that was probably too much. I apologize for being too forward, I won't lie tho, you elves have some of the best looks around, even your less appealing elves still have most of us humans beat I'd say a solid 7 at your races worst. Even the men are quite attractive. I'm straight and all so don't think I'm coming onto you or anything. But I can admit it when I see another good looking man. Kid you;re gonna be a heart breaker, just you wait. Keep training and working out like me and you'll have all the money, fame and woman you can get."​

He'd say teasing the boy as he caught the prop they boy might drop due to words.

"Easy there kid, don't want to get fired for dropping things. It would be a shame to cut our time to get to know one another short, you seem promising, maybe someone worth hanging out with once in a while. Ya know either in dungeons or in general. Now let's finish what little is left and see if we can't see what is left for us to do."​

He'd say as they finished up what was left for moving props before talking to the director of said play. It was then they'd be assigned the task of assisting with the moving and setting up of the scenes now that they were ready to practice. Sitting on the side waiting to change scenes as instructed he'd nudge the boy some

"Can you believe their singing voice, man I'd kill to have a voice like that...didn't you say you were here to sing or something originally. Think you could keep up with them? Come on give us a song, let's see what you got kid? Never know they might lose a man or need back up a singer in the background to help out."​

He'd tease as his arms were folded and he listened to the boy; either being denied or given a taste of what he could do. It would be moments later he smiled patting his back before motioning for him to assist as the curtain closed and they had to quickly set the stage once more.They'd go at that for several times during a brief moment here and there. Eventually, it led to the male turning a crank nonstop to create false waves for a ship scene causing the waves to move back and forth and the ship to shake up and down. His attention shifting to the male as if to motion for him to hit the curtains like they were to do, so they could end the scene.

Surprisingly the life of a stagehand was more difficult than he thought but then again he wasn't new to stressful situations nor opposed them. Yet the play itself seemed entertaining and had a sense of elegance and sadness. He looked forward to seeing how they would pull it all together in the short time provided. He was sure that months of preparing went in but in the short time he was part of it, he was proud; the next and final scene playing he'd note the time. The actors had but a few hours before the doors would open and the play would begin. Resting now he'd pour some water and food set aside for them and offer Soren some.

"Yo kid, rest up and eat. We got a big show tonight and we can't let the cast down. So let's just rest easy and eat a bite before we prepared for the show, sound good to you?"​

he asked before biting into a sandwich that was provided for them as he smiled warmly and drank water trying to keep cool. The last thing they'd want is to dehydrate or pass out from exhaustion.

@Soren Kalamalos

 

Stage Hands

As he shifted his gaze to the male when he spoke of family. He'd smile, seeing the kid happy sure was a nice change of pace considering his constant poker face. Yet when he spoke you could hear the loving tone of his voice; a warm smile creeping further across his face. It as good to see he wasn't alone in love for their parents. Yet as he hesitantly spoke about singing he'd eventually hear the kid; a few nods passing in approval. He had a nice set of pipes on him, but this didn't change the fact he could use practice and a bit of confidence. But he'd never say it to him.

"Nice voice Soren, maybe with some time you could be out on stage instead of working back here huh?"​

He'd tease some before rubbing his head some eating. The question asked was a good one but how was he to break it down in a sense that wouldn't talk the boys ear off for the time they had left before show time.

"Well you see...my life is complex. I have been a supporter for three years now, all of which have taught me to trust mainly myself and be cautious with who I join. Trust me, Soren, if anything be cautious with that, supporters are expendable. Even me, hell this one time I and this mage girl got stabbed and left for dead, I managed to get us out but she didn't make it. So, be careful not everyone in this world is nice. Aside from this, I don't have a god so I've yet to unlock my true potential as many keep telling me. But to be fair it's not an easy choice and I've been drowning in the very thought. I quit my job in the mines to try and become an adventurer which I'm failing at miserably. So you could say my life is tough..."​

he'd say some frowning before it shifted to a smile

"But like you kid, I got a good family and that is all you really need. That and a handful of friends worth keeping around. Just do me a favor and don't be afraid to speak up if you need to. If anyone ever gives ya shit in a dungeon say something if it's getting dangerous bite your tongue but as soon as you get out, go ahead and let me know. I'll beat some ass, no shame in my game. I might be a support but I'd put someone on their ass faster than you can blink. Besides no one messes with my little buddy." ​

He'd say putting a fist up for the boy to bump, unsure if he knew the custom. None the less He'd try to be as kind and compassionate as possible. Yet this brief moment would be interrupted as he returned to eating swiftly when the director mentioned the five-minute last call. His attention shifting to the kid he'd look to the side as he got up and began to prepare for the show; the seats now slowly filling.

"Well kid, you ready?"​

He asked curiously as he prepared to adjust the set, behind the curtains.

@Soren Kalamalos

 

Stage Hands

With the boy embarrassed of his own skill and the compliment it wouldn't be long before he shared his experience and then gave a helpful suggestion. To which he was thanked before the room on the other side began to fill up, A faint smile passed as the male chuckled at the very thought. How exciting, to go out and see a play, yet how many of them were adventurers and how many were gods, surely there must be a way to divide them, perhaps the balcony seats and private boxes. None the less he stared from afar he'd await the play to begin as everyone took their places. As the play was to begin and music was heard he'd run back and start to open the curtain tugging swiftly on the massive line thus opening his side, hoping the boy had done the same to open the other side.

Rushing from there he'd have to immediately begin moving some props to the side preparing them as close to placement as he could while the scene was still going on. As the actors, however, moved about the scene he'd assist the ones running off swiftly change clothes or adjust their costume handing them the props as needed; make up crew and clothing doing the majority of the work as the lights fell upon the single target and the clapping began, rushing back to close the curtains now. Rushing to place the props for the next act with some others; it would be all set or so it would seem.

This was when the curtain would open and the scene began only to note the actor not having his sword on him; a love scene where he'd need the blade not available. Eyes shifting to the boy he'd look at him and frown. Swallowing hard his lips would part as he prepared to play rock paper scissors.

"Welp one of us has to rush out and give him the sword,but I got an idea as to how as to not break the illusion and magic of the stage; we challenge him to a duel for the love of his honor...we can toss him the blade then and have a mini sword fight on stage before dying and yeah. The only problem is who is gonna do it?"​

He'd say as he prepared to play rock paper and scissors for it, his first shot rock as he looked at the boy,

"Best of three?"​

His second chance paper, followed by if need be third time rock. No matter how it would turn out one of them would have to follow through with the plan; dressing the part and singing some; challenging the male to the duel. Sword tossed the fight would begin as the clashing of swords were heard and the main lead stuck the other; fake ketchup spurting from the mouth as they were to fall dead upon their back as the devotion of love passed and the curtains would go down. A happy sound of clapping was heard as some laughter was shared and they began collecting themselves; while the brief intermission was to take place.

By this point they were given enough time to change out the costume if needed and help set up for the next act; a big thank you was expressed from the crew for the quick thinking and adjustments made that didn't take away from the play as the crowd seemed to enjoy it too. A faint smile passed as the male nudged the young elf and winked.

"Not bad huh? Maybe we should rethink our roles; show biz ain't looking that bad is it."​

He teased before putting the finishing touches on the scene then grabbing something to drink. The play almost over and the night going well.

 

Stage Hands

Having won their game and fate cruelty would be forced upon the boy as he took the sword out and did his acting. However, brief it was before he smiled some and held back his laughter at the boys comment. His own smile creeping into a grin as he simply couldn't hold back anymore and let out a hardy laugh.

"You did good kid, no need to be so afraid. You did well and helped save the play. You should be proud of yourself killer, you slew the audience at least giving them a good laugh."​

He teased some ruffling his hair as he seemed still shaken and running off towards the water; yet unbeknownst to the duo one of those searching for the boy was within the crowd; whether or not he noticed was to be seen yet. However, this didn't change the fact that the boy seemed on edge. Patting his back some he'd smile and grab a drink as well using the best of the time which remained to relax before getting back to the play.

Once more as the room filled and murmuring was heard, his arms began cranking the device as the curtains opened; the big final act building up as more and more things continued forth; props moved and the curtains opening and closing to shift scenes the male would exhale heavily as he soon placed the last prop opening the curtains for the final scene. His eyes fixated upon the actors he'd smile warmly and look upon them with wonder; as the final scene played out they'd close curtain upon it; a standing ovation from the crowd was heard with some whistling and cheering the male turned to the boy giving a thumb up before the cast came out to give their bow and curtains raised once more.

Soon it died down and the event wrapped up. The room slowly cleared and they were left with clean up; yet it appeared a member of the audience had managed their way backstage and even spoke; calling out to Soren. The male had a gruff look and seemed the bounty hunter type. Maybe a slaver. As he then looked to the boy he'd arch a brow.

"Who is this clown?"​

He'd say cockily s the male introduced himself and claimed the boy as property.

"The fuck you just say about my elf?"​

He'd say claiming the boy and standing up now, taller than the male in question he'd soon look back and smile.

"This elf isn't a slave, he is my hired aid. We do things differently around here and slavery ain't looked upon here kindly. Don't get me wrong I can see why you're so pissy. He's a hard worker but the fact is, he is now my assistant. I paid for him he is mine, so long as our contract is still a thing your shit out of luck. Matter of fact, you can feel free to swing by the adventurer's guild and file your complaint there, but I wouldn't imagine they'd listen. As I said, slavery ain't a thing here. So the boy and his family are under my protection and work for me as my aides.

Now if you wana take them back you better be ready to tussle cuz the second you make a move I'll lop your fucking head off and won't think twice. Now you seem like a reasonable man and know that I'm not the type to fuck around. So we can do this the easy way or the hard way. If you insist on the hard way I'll have you and your crew locked up the moment a guard sees you around here. If you want to let it go and never come back to bother me or my friend here again. I'll consider it your word and make it a binding verbal contract, fall back on it and by right I or the boy can kill you legally. Oh...and here is a little something for your trouble delivery boy.." ​

He'd say dropping some coin before him as the male grunted and walked off his blade slamming down upon the money as if to taunt him into acting stupid. Eye shifting back after seeing the boy he'd glare.

"Really...dumbass. You didn't think it was important to tell me you were a runaway slave."​

He'd say approaching the boy.

"Welp I guess your ass is mine now."​

He'd say in a serious tone before smirking a bit and full on laughing some before ruffling his hair.

"No worries little man slavery ain't cool here. Besides I got your back, any more secrets you got their buddy? I can't help protect you if you're not honest with me. I'm dead serious, though if you have a sister you need to tell me I would love to marry an elf and you wouldn't make a bad little brother."​

He teased more pulling him into a headlock and ruffling his hair some before sighing heavily. Their task was gone they play went off without a hitch, and the problem had been averted, all that was left was to make sure the elf boy got back safe. A warm smile passing his face he'd offer the boy his hand.

"Come on short stuff lets get you home safe and let your pops know the good news, not that you were probably all that worried you have a god protecting you; far more powerful than me. But it's always nice to know someone else has got your back. Oh, don't forget to grab som grub and drinks before you go it will only get thrown out."​

He'd say as he prepared to lead the boy home; grabbing some food and drinks for their journey. A warm smile passing as he hoped the boy although perhaps afraid or shocked might have enjoyed the fact he wasn't alone and someone out there was indeed looking out for him. A shift in his gaze passed though at the idea of finding an elf bride seemed less and less likely a faint smile passed as he closed his eyes and he opened the backstage door,

"You coming kiddo?"​

He'd ask Soren as if he was unsure whether the boy needed a minute? If so he'd give him all the time he needed.