The Yarrogin family has been one of the richest families in the Dunnstads for generations, having found themselves in that perfect middle ground where they made enough money to live however they wanted, but not quite enough money that they were famous world wide, and therefore constantly drawing the attention of thieves, whether sea raiders or tax collectors. So while they not net as much profit as other families, they were able to keep more of what they made, hence making them richer by default.

The Yarrogin family had made their fortune generations ago by purchasing huge tracks of land, and then being fortune enough to discover that there were profitable mines on those lands. This was proof that the family was blessed by some divine being above, and as such the family decided that only those of equally prestigious blood, or those rare who were greater, would be allowed to join the family. A lesser lord had once proposed to the daughter of a Yarrogin, and been rejected for he was deemed too poor. If there was any curse upon the Yarrogin family, it was, of course, that they were too blessed. They were wealthy, and all their women were quite beautiful, suitors coming from all over the world to seek their hands in marriage.

All this, Sera learned as she listened to a merchant ramble on. She raised an eyebrow at the fact the man bragged about people coming from all over the world, having only a few sentences ago saying that they maintained their status by not being world famous. Obviously both couldn't be true. She did her best to hold in the heavy sigh she wanted to release, instead just breathing slightly oddly, and blinked to keep herself from rolling her eyes. Oh, just get to the point already.

"But! The worst thing that could have ever happened has happened now! My daughter, my only daughter, my most beautiful daughter, my precious daughter! She has been kidnapped!" The man wailed.

Sera straightened a bit. "Kidnapped? How do you know?" She asked.

The man held out a note to Sera. She took it gently and opened it to read it. "To Donothan Yarrogin. It is due to your own pride and arrogance that you shall never see your daughter again. Had you been a less stubborn man, you would have grown old with many grandchildren by your side. Now, you will be alone on your death bed." Sera frowned as she finished reading it. She might not have been the hugest fan of the man, he did seem very full of himself, but no man deserved to have his daughter kidnapped. She finally allowed herself the heavy sigh. "I will do whatever I can to find your daughter," she explained to the man. "I have some friends, some real selfless hero types. I'll get in contact with them, and we'll track down whoever did this. Do you have any ideas who it might have been?" She asked.

The man nodded. "Of course! I know exactly who it was! It was that damn Rouger boy! He's a sailor, he is, and he's always had his eye on my daughter! Now, she knew she was too good for him, she did, so she was a good lass and told him so. Oh, but he is an evil man. He didn't care what was best for her! No, he only cares about what he wants! I promise you, he's the one behind this all!" The man began to wail again. Even as he did, the notification popped up in Sera's vision to accept or deny the quest. She hit the accept button with a sigh. Would anyone with a heart reject this quest? "I'll find her, I promise you," Sera said, and slowly began to back away from the man.

Once she was a decent bit away, Sera opened her message menu. She didn't really know too many people who had come here to be heroes. Though... the other day, she did meet someone who would fit that description. Aaron Steele, his name was, if she recalled correctly. She was a bit.... intoxicated.... at the time.

Sera

Hey, hero boy. Found a quest you might be interested in. Damsel in distress type deal. Can't really shining armor it on my own. I'll split the pay with you.... uh.... how's 70/30 sound? We can discuss it in person. Besides, pretty girl in danger? You don't do that kind of thing for the money, right? So yeah, you'd be fine with 75/25, right? Like I said, we can talk it out when you get here. I'd be willing to do 60/40, but only if I'm the one who gets to do the whole 'hero kisses the rescued girl' deal. Meet me at the Dunnstads main trading port. Promise I won't be drunk this time.

With that, Sera would send the message. Now, there wasn't much for her to do except wait. Well, she supposed she could send him a party invite as well.

Invite

Sera has invited you to their party. Accept?

 

In Another Castle
​

As our brave hero completed his last quest; having turned in the quest for the collection of pelts and stew for the Huntsman. He had made his way to the quest board within the Inn to celebrate. Having gathered and completed a side mission and the optional quest of turning into a crazed Psychotic woman. He'd earn some extra gold and what did he decide to do with it. Order a round of ale for those sitting with him. That was until he realized that they were all beautiful woman. Feeling a bit cocky he'd grin wide and flirt away, blushes exchanged, beer spilled and otherwise a good time had, that was up until he'd realized that it wasn't just one of the girls flirting with him, but all.

This, of course, setting free that infamous ego all men have; especially an Adonis-like man, such as himself. Sculpted to perfection, built like a bull and otherwise perfect to share his code with whom ever so desired it. Yet at the same time, it was this same ego which often got him into trouble or kept him from doing the very thing he could; the bit of discipline he had when he wasn't self-indulging in the liquor or the ladies. None the less between the feet which grazed his legs beneath the table ever so playfully rising up his pant leg, the girl up in his face, demanding he challenge her to a stripping game and the beauty beside him ordering all the tasty food he didn't know where to turn his focus.

It wasn't long from then that he'd take note of the sudden message invite coming to him, eyes shifting to read over the message sent to him by Sera he'd laugh and shake his head replying back with a slight hiccup. His mind racing some as he noted the party invite and accepted it before pausing a moment to think, before typing away. His fingers fluttering about as he poured words fast upon the messaging system; pausing to drink in between.

"I'm not sure, I'm a bit tipsy and that place seems awfully far away. The deal seems off but that might just be me but I'm not sure I want to turn down these three beauties. We got Boobies, ass, and chubbs. Chubbs is my favorite her lips taste like chicken. She's always eating but so thin, but you know what they say about girls who eat a lot, they are good at that one thing."​

He'd chuckle to himself and send a photo of each of them; well that or their specific quality. The brown haired chubby girl, the blue haired lass's breasts. The bar tender's ass and the final girl remained unknown, the one with which kept teasing at his leg with her feet. The mystery girl.

"I think I got me a chance for a three-way, I'd offer to make it a four but your not into me that way...wait are you..nevermind that isn't important. What is is that princess right...I'm scared tho, I've never bothered to see how realistic this game is, we don't gots to pee so I don't know if I gots my Peter or If I'm smooth as Ken. Could the Alcoa though, to be honest. I'd totally send a dick pic, if I wasn't sure you'd punch me through the text somehow."​

He'd say sending the text with a stupid Tongue emoji. Yet he'd soon become serious as he texts her one last time.

"But no worries beautiful, we can split it 60/40 but if she's an elf I get to tag team, cuz someone is getting the DM's tonight and I'm spreading this source code...HA..but seriously. Give me a bit, I got a mage buddy who owes me a favor or two. I'll have him spawn me to a place nearby. Give me an hour, gonna get some tongue game on. To make it up for You I'll send some more pictures....#BeJelly"​

He'd send the final text before indulging in his delusional and otherwise perverse desires. Not long into taking the blond back with him he'd shortly after escaping her grasps have sobered up and left to meet up with his friend It wouldn't be long, but an hour and a half; late. That he slowly appeared off near the Dunnstads main trading port. A faint smile passed as he rubbed the back of his head.

"Sorry, I'm a bit sober now. But before you hit me or change your mind. I brought presents. Besides that blonde...not the waitress but the armored chick teasing me. She was a freak and a half, very submissive and super into torture things. I'm afraid I had hurt the damn girl...great time though."
​

He'd say offering her a bottle of the good stuff, having paid a small fortune for it But what was a simple gift between friends. None the less he'd shift his gaze to the side and look about, hoping she wasn't too annoyed with his tardiness, let along the reasoning and lack of details. Knowing she had a thing for a bit of the lusty life and the ladies herself.

"So what's the next step their boss. I got my gear, I'm ready to roll and rescue us some Princess booty. Although I'm dead serious, if there are any hot elf mages under 5'0 I'm making my waifu harem, no joke. Nothing sexier than a short elf with the ability to cast a spell on you and make you hers..."​

He'd say with a thumbs up as his shield rest firmly upon his back with the blade piercing through the sheath on it. His armor still lacking but perhaps enough to get him through what was needed given his mastery skills. Never the wiser the male would lean against one of the stands re-reading the quest log which was provided upon the quest sharing feature thanks to the party options. Reading it in greater detail he'd shake his head and sigh waiting for her to make the final call as to what they'd do from here.

@Sera Phim

 

Sera grinned when she received the man's first message back. Apparently, the two of them had a bit of a similar taste. She whistled once the pictures of the three girls arrived, as well as a fourth he hadn't said anything about. She grinned and began to type a message back. "Hot damn. I don't think I'd be able to choose between any of them. Those images are all being saved for later... You should be careful if they all want a piece of you, I hear it falls off if you use it too much within a short amount of time. Plus... wouldn't want to disappoint four girls in one day, now would you? ~ I do agree with your choices though. It's nice to have something to squish, no matter where they have it. Goddess, if I wasn't taken...." she sent the message, and noticed immediately that there was already another message sitting in her inbox. She laughed and shook her head, opening it up.

She laughed even harder reading the message. "I'll leave you guessing on that first part. Just because someone prefers one flavor of ice cream doesn't necessarily mean they dislike the others. Besides, your favorite can get repetitive if it's all you have. What about you? You ever try any... different flavor? >:( also, if you send me a picture of your penis, you better make sure to save it on your own device, because that will become the only way you are able to see it ever again. Well, actually, I'd probably let you keep the ashes as a reminder."

She put her hand to her face as she read the man's third message. "Child support is a thing in this game, just so you know. And I already am 'jelly'. I'm holding you to that promise of pictures, just make sure nothing of yours is in them. Alright, have fun, use protection, your shield don't count, make sure they finish first, find out if they're into girls, and get me their contact info!" She sent the message with a chuckle. He was probably... busy already.

When Aaron finally arrived, Sera made an over exaggerated show of looking at her wrist as if there should have been a watch. "What, has it been thirty seconds already?" She asked with a large grin. As she listened to him describe his conquest, she shook her head slowly. "Ah, so, not my type, actually. Ah, pity. It's hard to find girls on the other side of those desires. Means mine get left out so often..." She shrugged coyly. Her eyes widened at the gift of alcohol. "Oh, goddess. Alright, you might be on the list of my favorite men, right about now. I'm willing to up your share so the split is 55... uh, 57/43." She put the bottle away in her inventory where it would be safe. "I needed to get it out of my sight, if I opened it now, we'd never rescue that poor girl. But, as soon as we do... I'd be willing to let you have a glass or two with me, if you'd like."

When the man asked for the plan, and apparently described his ideal woman, Sera shook her head and made a noise that was a cross between a chuckle and a sigh. "The best ones don't even need a spell to do it..." she said, surprisingly in a sad voice. "But yeah, you can have any elves," she said, the sorrow seeping away from her voice. "But I get any Felis, and we can fight over any human girls."

Sera clapped her hands together and rubbed them. "Right, so the prime suspect is named Rouger, he's a sailor. While I was waiting for you, I did some looking around, apparently there are detailed ship logs kept for each company that does business out of this port. Rouger, as I've learned, works for one of Yarrogin's rivals. I've already taken the liberty of looking around, figuring out what ship he's on, and what his course is going to be. He is registered as being on the ship, and has a passenger, and he left port just yesterday. If we take a quicker ship, we should actually be able to catch up to him. You don't get seasick, do you?" She asked.

When they were ready to depart, she'd point him in the direction of the port. "Since you're the big brave knight with the shield, you're in front."
@Aaron Steele

 

The Plan
​

Lovely banter aside and the semi-flirtatious flow between them he'd arrived at the port in an arguably timely manner. Having been scolded for such atrocities and gained a friendly reminded that she was a spoken for woman he'd nod. Although that didn't change the fact she was quite the beauty and was sculpted in such a way he'd consider her worthy of his Source code. Her words though earlier about whether he'd tasted different flavors had sat on his mind though, not sure as to what she meant but deciding it wasn't the best time to ask. Not too long after the banter and his sudden appearance with a gift, he'd note her smile and sudden change in tone.

"Well if I'm honest, 60/40 is fine by me but under the condition, I get kissed one way or another. Need something to brag about when I get back to the bar. Aside from that, I'm golden with what's been discussed, all but the ship bit. What happens if we send off to follow said ship and he isn't there. He must know he is a suspect and probably trying to hide out. I'd certainly not try and be the first place they'd look. Have we checked the port before we left; bars? Hidden off in some inn room. They aren't star-crossed lovers whose families forbid the stuff right? I mean cliche's aside and such, these games usually leave some clues outside the ordinary. My experience lately is this won't be a simple one"​

He'd say as the duo discussed further. His mind shifting to the ship that was discussed to be the vessel of their travels. A bit of unease filled him as he thought more about it. Rubbing the back of his head, although it was just a game he wasn't the biggest fan of the thought. Probably because of the simple fact, it was just a game. So anything could be lurking about. On a ship, you're likely to be safe unless capsized by whales, attacked by sharks. Getting unlucky in a storm, the list was small. But in this game; it was far greater. Sea beasts, those which fly. Sirens possibly, he'd turn to look to the other female and raise a finger.

"How dangerous do you think this sea-faring task might be. I'm a man, I'm not afraid of water; just what might be in it. I know the game has been generous to some degree. But Sirens and sea beasts. I'd be lying if those thoughts didn't burden my decision or delay the inevitable. However, I need one simple promise. If we are utterly fucked, and you somehow survive. You need to tell the world I went out like a hero and to search for my body it needs to be turned into a statue to be idolized."​

He'd say with a cocky grin shifting his attitude to cover his reluctant desire to get on the boat as he took a deep breath and began to board the vessel. Eyes scanning about the ship once aboard he'd take note of the simplistic setup; but exquisite details. He was never surprised at how much work went into even the most simple of things. Hearing the sound of seagulls and the scent of the sea air hitting his nose he'd turn to the other and arch a brow. Pointing upward and about at some damage to the ship; claw marks and some possible repaired and replaced wood. Lips parting he'd shift his gaze from his partner to the ship's captain and begin his inquiry as to what it was that went down, given the condition of the ship; hoping to get insight into what is to be expected.

As it turned out the captain was quite forthcoming explaining that pirate like bandits attacked as well as some sea beasts. So he warned the duo that they may need to help protect the vessel, his gaze shifting from the captain he'd nod; already starting the 1st quest and a side one has popped up. This was perfect for gaining some coin but otherwise made everything connected if not a task. So this game if anything was far from easy; especially if you were one trying to become a hero. A hand beneath his chin he'd ponder some more on their journey, eyes shifting up to the sky admiring the beauty as he was lost in thought.

"You know, this game amazes me, so smooth, transitions are well. Perhaps too well, I can't help but feel there are some radiant quests, that will repeat somewhat. I may learn to fear the journey up the ships most. Although we've yet to see a giant dragon in the sky, let's hope that's just a joke for now."​

He'd say as the ship began to depart and he began to move about the cabins exploring and seeking out any hidden and fun facts. The usual Steele attitude to search every rock for some goodies and or secrets, perhaps finding out where the blasted key worked. Not sure if it was a rare item or common he didn't like the idea of bringing too much attention to it but he'd slowly motioned his way towards his partner, a fair amount of trust between them as they seemed to have mutual mind process as well as respect and an understanding of how things were to go; expectations. Lips parting he'd begin inquiring about her knowledge of the key as well as some minor information on the case.

"Well I know you're not big on sharing or at least for free, but I have this key I came upon. It's to open some sort of door but I've yet to find it in my journey. Ever heard of it, the Aedrik’s Master Key? I feel like it's important, that or at least might lead to some cool gear or stuff to trade later down the line. Anyways, I feel like our best bet is to become familiar and build some relations with this captain. If he is this willing to aid strangers, imagine how he'd be with friends. So let's see if we can't kill some time working about the ship and such. Maybe earn some coin and his respect and friendship. Think it might work like that here?"​

He'd ask curiously before placing his hands inside his pockets looking down at his key and then shifting his attention towards the sea; the sounds of water roaring along the side of the ship. Their journey after the believed target and hope to rescue the princess. Making his way to the front of the ship he'd stare out at the horizon, the sight of land behind them long gone, it was just them and the mistress that was the sea; the question now was she going to be a kind lover or a rough one. Only time would tell just how she was fairing today; he was hoping the latter wouldn't be the case as he was still getting his sea legs, the stomach twisting some as he was prepared to chum the waters.

Eyes shifting back he'd try to smile and put on a brave face, yet his inner self as screaming to hold it together and not blow chunks all over; how could a hero get sea sick let alone embarrass himself before a lady and the captain. Swallowing hard he'd pull back and make his way towards the captain to ask him personally if he had any real tasks that needed doing or perhaps problems he could help them with. A faint smile passed as he realized he'd volunteered his partner for the job, yet at the same time had little issue with it due to their 60/40 deal. At least this way she'd get a bigger 60 so logically she should be fine?

@Sera Phim

 

Sera laughed at the man's comment that he needed a kiss so he would have something to brag about. "Did you just finish having something a lot better than a mere kiss?" She asked teasingly. A small twang of guilt panged in her chest. Even though she knew this was just friendly banter, a small part of her worried that if it progressed too far, she'd have to make a choice between Lucia and Aaron, and she knew she could only choose Lucia. Right? And this was just friendly banter, right? She wondered herself, though, at the man's suggested that the quest might involve them being star crossed lovers. "You think we might have a Romeo and Juliet on our hands?" She asked him. "Well, let's try to make sure they don't kill themselves out of stupidity. I think the boat is our safest bet. Yeah, it's obvious, but if it's wrong, I can teleport the two of us from the ship back to this town. Can't teleport us to the ship."

She grinned as soon as the man started talking about sirens. "Oh, please. If the two of us run into sirens while we're together, you'll be completely safe. They'll see you, see me, and any who didn't already will immediately start batting for my team. Or, well, I guess they could be like me, swing for both. Then we're both fucked, I guess, just not the fun way." She turned serious for a moment and raised her eyebrow. "Also, you do know that players respawn, right? NPCs don't, but we do. So even if we do die, we'll pop right back into down, just with some mental disorder affecting us. So, you know, maybe not much a difference for you," she teased.

She frowned as she stared at the boat and all the damage to it. "Yeah, I... I didn't realize it was in this bad of shape... I was planing on using some of my magic to speed the boat up, either hydromancy to move the water under us or aeromancy to push the wind into the sails, but that could take a back burner if you think we both need to be on guard duty. Especially if we run into any dragons, but I've not heard anything of that sort existing in this game, yet. I think those are late game encounters, not areas that are still for relative noobs."

Once they were on the ship, Sera stayed above deck, keeping her eyes peeled for anything out of the ordinary that would require her attention. Every now and then, she'd summon up a brief gust of wind to give the ship a bit of a boost in speed. She turned toward Aaron when he approached her and began asking her about the key he had. She smiled at him kindly. "Hey, Aaron. You know being a friend is a pretty good payment on it's own, right?" She asked him. There was a strange seriousness in her voice, as if the question had about three layers of what it meant underneath the surface layer, each one progressively trickier to put into words and more important than the last. She shook her head. "That said, no, I'm not familiar with the key. I mean, I've heard of it, but not encountered any of the doors it opens. Stop me if you already know this, but around the world, there are Aedrik's doors. No one knows what's inside them. Riches, powerful weapons, rare recipes, secrets to ancient powers, monsters that'll each you alive and then use your bones as toothpicks. Could be anything. I don't think a single player has opened one yet. Wouldn't that be interesting, if you were the first?"

She mused for a bit. "As for dealing with the captain, yeah, they're basically people. It's always good to be on their good side. He might not necessarily have extra work for us now, but in the future he might. We could make a pretty good duo, you and I. Solving problems for hire and the affection of beautiful women. I mean, even now at two jobs so far, you're tired for the second most worked with partner of mine." She frowned a bit, as if she hadn't meant to reveal how lonely she was.

She followed him to the front of the ship, and chuckled when she noticed he seemed to be struggling with something. She began to chant softly. When she finished, Aaron would smell and taste the soft spray of sea mist, but without the saltiness. It'd be a refreshing taste and smell, and the seasickness could be gone. "It's a bit of hyrdomancy and naturalmancy, working together," she explained. She frowned again, and looked back to the sea. "You know I'm joking, right?" She said, once again somber. "About the whole 60/40 thing? I..." she stopped herself, and let out a heavy sigh. "I've been having some financial problems, as of late," she said, but the quickness with which she said it would definitely cause it to sound a bit suspicious. She was a terrible liar. "And so I've been trying to get as much work as I can, to pay those off. But that doesn't mean you should get cut from your equal share. 50/50, we both get to kiss the girl if she swings our ways, deal?"

(I think we should switch to shorter posts now, I'm enjoying the banter between them, but I feel like I've written so much and progressing the plot will make it longer. Let's have a few transitional posts of medium length, not really advancing the adventure but just being on the ship, and then go shorter?)

 

As the banter continued he'd shift his gaze to her and smile, "Yeah, depends on your definition of better, although kisses can lead to things far more adventurous. However, I was merely joking, Steele may be many things in this world but the last thing I am is a house breaker. If you have a lover, your not on my radar in such a way." he said with a smile reassuring her that he understood and accepted her choice, arching a brow at her question in regards to the star-crossed lovers he'd nod,

"Yep, Romeo and Juliet But let's hope this doesn't end in death. I want to get paid at the very least. Besides, we must keep our minds open; it isn't like some Mario story where we know with one hundred percent certain peach dislikes Bowser and he kidnaps her; no pattern no true motive. But we noticed some sort of bias from the father; this for all extensive purposes could be the ploy for us chumps to slay competition for him. You did mutter something about that earlier. Look all I'm saying is let's not rush into this concept without thinking of possibilities. Besides we have plenty of time here on the ship to let these facts sink in as well as explore and relax. Consider our cruise here a nice chance to get to know one another and make some coin no?"

Hearing her agree and talk about a safety net there was little left to talk about except the actual execution of the plan and how she personally wanted things to go down. Yet seeing as that was awhile away; he shifts the topic to the sirens. Smiling warmly he'd listen to her words nodding in agreement when appropriate, yet her words on death he'd part his lips confused.

"Wait, so that option abot hardcore mode wasn't real. I don't get just one life befoe having to make a new character. Well that's a relief but there is a way to be rid of disorders; well game ones otherwise hell I'm sure I'd save up the gold to remove it right" he'd say teasing back having a fairly relaxed sense of humor. Yet a such he'd begin exploring and doing his thing; asking about the key only to get the response he did. A faint smile passed, "Being friends is fine by me, but you're not conning me into doing this quest with you free. That aside I'm sure it would be amazing to find that door. Open it and reap the rewards. Beast or not. I'd be like Sinbad from Magi, a fairly old anime but similar concept. I'd need to get a ship a crew and sail the world collecting my Djinn equips."

His inner geek showing as well as a slight look into what he did with his time spent; mainly with his sister in the past. Yet in the background of his thoughts, he'd note her tone and words, a faint smile passing as he pats her shoulder, "Well you'll always have an ally in me. You can't help who you synergize with, but just because two folks work well together doesn't mean they need to be. I said it before I'll say it again; friendship is fine by me. Just don't hold it against me for the occasional compliment. Every woman deserves to be reminded of her beauty and worth; even if just by friends." with that said he'd turn to seek out some space making it less awkward; only to lead to his sea sickness.

Listening to her words it was too late; the sudden urge to throw was met with the sea being chummed and his face turning back, ugly sobbing as he groaned and upchucked again. Her words meant a fair deal but he made a deal and he wasn't going to go back on it, "Sorry...I...I think it's settling down...nope..." trying not to throw up he'd close his eyes. "Alright, sorry about that. No, we made a deal 60/40 is fine. Although I never do this for the money. I do it for the fame, the reputation gain and well for fun. If I cared about the money I'd become a crafter, try and buy my gold like those who spend real life currency on microtransactions and so forth. But it's all good. Now if you'll excuse me I'm off to get my tea. Really not feeling well."

He'd say as he left her presence aiming to get something to settle his stomach, the captain coming by teasing about needing to get his sea legs before informing her of their journey's progress along with possible work.All the while poor Aaron was left barfing over the edge and trying to eat some bread and drink tea to settle his nerves, maybe it was the mixed liquor from earlier or his sudden realization of the dangers of the sea. Whatever the cause was the seagulls seemed happy as one landed on his back dancing. Not far off at a distance appeared to be the startings of a whirlpool and some bubbles. Something was afoot.

@Sera Phim

[OOC: If you enjoy the banter I'll keep to that and you take the lead; give us a goal or something to do on the ship. I figured a seasickness might be a good natural negative for a tank to have if we got into combat. I just tossed something random at the end; let's see what you can come up with. Hope this was alright, sorry if not.]

 

Sera frowned at the man's words. "Well, she's not really a lover, per say," she found herself saying. She winced a bit, wondering why she spoke up but being unable to help herself but to continue. "It's hard to explain. We're.... well, I'm not her only. And I'm different around her, to the point that when I haven't been with her in a while... I wonder if I want to go back..."

"Of course, the chance that they are lovers is one I'm considering as well, though we don't know for sure," Sera said, grateful for a conversation to move on to.

"Hardcore mode?" Sera asked. She thought for a moment. "I don't remember hearing anything about that.... Are you sure they didn't mean like, since you're so ugly, your life is harder?" She asked with a playful grin and a nudge. She laughed when he said she couldn't con him into doing the job for free. "No!" She cried with a laugh. "All my plans, ruined!" She smiled at him. "Sinbad, from Magi? I can't say I'm familiar. I preferred comics far more than anime," she chuckled and shook her head. "In fact, this avatar is actually modeled after a comic book character. Not my favorite, but she was the same type of hero as my favorite. Well, for a while. He moved on to become a more powerful version."

She smiled and lowered her head when he said that all women deserved to be reminded of their worth. He'd also said beauty, but since she'd made this form herself, it didn't register quite as much, though both mattered. She whispered a thank you, but she wasn't sure if the sound left her lips or if it died in her throat.

When he made his comic about crafters, Sera put her hands on her hips. "You realize that I am a crafter, right?" She asked. This time when he left, she didn't try to follow him. He'd probably be throwing up soon, and she didn't really want to have to watch that. As the captain talked, Sera mused. She didn't really know what she could be doing to help around the ship. "I've been giving up bursts of speed whenever my mana allows," she explained. "Likewise, I've been keeping an eye on the waters for any threats."

Even as she said that, she noticed something out of the corner of her eye. The water was acting strangely. Before she could call out a warning, large tentacles burst from the sea, three on either side of the ship. Even as she looked at them, though, she noticed that at the end of each tentacle there was a head. No, they weren't tentacles, they were necks!

"Hydrian!" The captain shouted. "Faux hydra!"

"Hydrian?" Sera asked.

The captain looked at her like she was an idiot. "Hydrian, girl! The fake hydras. They don't regenerate, their stench ain't toxic, but they sure can turn a ship into a wreck! These seem like young ones, less heads. Even still, the young ones are vicious bastards."

"Leave them to us," Sera said.

The six heads roared in delight at the arrival of their hoped for meal.

"Aaron! Can you fight how you are?" She called to her companion.


(OOC: Yeah, that was totally alright.)

 

Hearing her pour her heart out he felt nothing but sympathy for her but had he said anything he was sure she'd beat him till he was unconscious, although he loved the idea of her crawling on top of him and beating his chest and getting rough he thought it might make for an awkward first date so he kept his mouth shut, this time. But at least she was receptive to his hypothesis; so there was that win. A faint smile passed as if to explain without words and change topics seemed to bring that alluring smile of hers out as he chuckled some at her jokes, cute. Turning her anger onto him and teasing to feel better. Whatever it took, so long as she wasn't so sad. An emotionally unstable partner would make for a bad time. Her nudge pushing him back into reality,

"Oh were you part of that deal when I signed up. Didn't think they'd torture me with a beauty who busted my balls all the time and not even in a good way." he'd say retorting back before carrying on explaining she could have got him to do it free, her reaction was priceless and worth the mention. Yet her dislike for anime over comics was surprising, "Oh I just thought you were into some really weird space hero anime. Kinky attire but not revealing enough. Should have guessed it to be hero based. Modesty hiding the perfection of such a nicely sculpted figure. Isn't this the time where you explain how that is how you look in real life then I say same, you call me a liar and I send you a photo over the phone when we are done." He'd tease as if they were some long distant lovers or something.

His smile fading he'd carried on, complimenting her then teasing, the sweet and sour taste he felt necessary to not come off so soft, "Oh, I'm sorry so your good with your hands then...alright. Might need them some time to help polish my sword if not give it a good repair." he'd say chuckling yet being serious in the literal sense. However, lady karma decided to punish him for his ways and as such he scuttled off to throw up. Sometime later as the bird teased dancing on him he'd swat it away as he walked over during her conversation with the captain and tease."She's right cap' she's giving this ship one hell of a blowjob, but it's pretty big, got to let her catch her breath." His lips curled into a grin before frowning and disappearing again ugly sobbing.

He figured the next time he wanted to say something he'd think first. Yet as he saw the hydrian appear he'd part his lips to speak but soon be met with the dangers of the beast. His shield popping up to block the incoming strike and get knocked back as he crawled on his hands, "Yeah, I'll be okay. I'm kinda pissed now so more focused on fucking this thing up." He'd say his eyes glowing a tint of red as he got on his feet and hunkered down. "Alright, you son of a bitch. Time to die..." He'd say moving in blocking and slicing at it a few times doing his best to gain aggro of the heads; leaving her openings and striking again whenever the aggro was lost; taking the occasional hit here and there at his backside.

"I'm tired of these mother fucking Hydrian on this mother fucking ship..." he'd say imitating Samuel L Jackson as he seemed to become more agitated, his eyes glowing a darker red as his hits appeared to become a bit more fluid and faster; slicing deep as he struck upon the beast; helping eliminate at least one of them. Eyes shifting back to her, "You alright love?" he'd ask curiously trying to block for her as he got swept up off his feet and partially eaten; considering his size. "Choke on my girth you stupid bitch, yeah how do you like that..." he'd say slamming the shield's corner into its eye and stabbing it a few times before being flung out and at the ship skipping like a rock some "FUUUUUUUUCK!" He'd say getting up again, popping a potion.

"I'm not done with you, I haven't finished." Jumping into the air he'd come down striking at the base of his blade slapping another head away with his shield, "I'm a split you in half, you whore...then I'm gonna skull f...." he'd continue on screaming his vulgar things and gaining aggro before he realized his health dropping to near fifty percent. Perhaps another head or two gone; the ship still littered with some he'd take a moment to back up into her guarding with his shield, "Well, this looks like it's quite the adventure already, what do you say we tag team this thing and spit roast it when we are done. I could use a good meal; bet it taste like fish..."

he'd say chuckling as his hand reached back to protect her with the shield as he accidentally brushed his hand against her ass, "Wait that's not...my bad." he'd say running off into the Hydrian, "SAVE ME FROM SERA!" he'd shout jumping at one of the heads hugging it . Watching it shake frantically, "Even the Hydrians don't want me, I'm gonna be forever alone." he'd say chuckling before stabbing it a few times then puncturing the roof of its mouth before falling back once more. "You got a purdy mouth their boy...real purdy." he'd say with a grin, turning to see if he could make her crack a smile and enjoy the fight. "Bet these bastards got summoned by my lunch...sick." he'd say as he shook his head in disgust.

@Sera Phim

[More banter some action, take the lead and show me what you can do baby ;) <3 ]

 

Sera raised an eyebrow and Aaron and gave him a grin. "Busting your balls in a good way? And here you called that poor girl earlier a freak and half. Does that make you two freaks? So what's that.... four or five between us?" She laughed, including herself as a target this time so he didn't start to feel like she was getting mean with her joking insults. It was nice, being able to rib someone. The fact she could take as good as she gave is why she felt okay doing it. "And besides, would you rather it be me, or some ugly chick busting your balls?" She smiled again when talk turned to the outfit she was wearing, and how she looked. "You're calling this kinky? Boy, you oughtta see what I prefer wearing. But, no. This isn't how I look in real life. Same height, still a short girl. But I already know this is how you look in real life. Alonso gave that way, remember?"

"Oh, I'm pretty good with my hands, all right," Sera said. "But it's been a long time since I've polished any swords. Maybe a bit too long." She paused. "Wait, I lost track. Are we talking metaphors or literally. I was thinking metaphor. If you do mean it literally, I make swords a lot." She looked away from his seasickness bout as she talked with the captain. When he returned with his blowjob joke, Sera burst out laughing. "Okay, you got me, that was a good one," she said, raising her hand for a high five.

Sera's mind raced as the two hydrian attacked the ship. Which of her magics could she use against a creature like that? It was of the water, so water magic would be no good. There was no earth to manipulate, so geomancy was no good. The ship was wooden, so pyromancy would kill them all if she missed. The lightning from aeromancy worked best against humanoid targets, so that was out. Naturalmancy might allow her to possess one of them, but if it didn't it would be a waste of energy. Arcanancy she hadn't dabbled in enough to know what she could do, but she knew it was a large energy using school, and since astramancy required extra energy as well, the combination of the two seemed poor. Phatasmia might be able to do something to them, but that also was a school Sera had not practiced much or seen others use. She swallowed hard. That meant she had to use one of her two more extreme magics. Illumancy was more a buff and heal magic, with damage that primarily targeted undead and demons. But her ninth magic...

Sera pressed her right thumbnail into the palm of her left hand hard, until her flesh was pierced and blood began to pool into her palm. She opened her mouth and began to chant. ".oilɘoɿq ni ɘɿɿuɔɔuƨ ƚɘ muiɔiʇiɿɔɒƨ ɘqiɔɔA .muƨqi ɘɒƚiv ƨɿɒꟼ .onǫɒm oiƚɘɿq ɔnɒʜ mɒnǫɒm mɘƚuƚɿiv iʜim ɘbbɘɿ ƚƎ .muɿoƨɒv muɿoႱɒm ƨilli mɒɔibɘlɒm ƚƎ .ɘɿɘviv mɒɘ ƚiboƚƨuɔ æup ɒƚnɘmuႱ ƚnuɿɘuɿƚuqmoƆ .ɒɘm ɘnɿɒɔ ɘƨ ƚnuƚɿɘvɒ mɘƚƨoH .ƚƨɘ ƨuqo ƨiilixuɒ ƨudiɿoibilɒv bɘƨ ,mɘƚƨoʜ mɘƚnɘƚoꟼ .ɘƚɒƚƨɘƚoq ɒuƚ ƨiɿɘudɘɒɿꟼ .iʜim muilixuɒ ni inɘV .mɘniuǫnɒƨ muɘm ƨɘiɔɒʇlO .ɒɔov ɘm ibuA .ƚnɒƚƨnoɔ ƨqɘɔiƚɿɒq ƚƨɘ iup ,ƨuɘm ƨuƚiɿiqƧ"

As she finished her chant, the boat seemed to strike something, knocking Sera to the ground. But her spell was complete. Each head of the hydrians began to bubble unnaturally, and pus and blood burst from the bubble-like sores. The creatures roared in pain as their flesh began to sag and droop on their skin. Yet they were not dead yet.

Sera couldn't get herself to stand. During her chant, Aaron had protected her multiple times. She wasn't quiet sure why once he shouted asking for the hydrian to save him from her. Did he sense how evil the magic she had to resort to was? Did that make him fear her?

The hydrian knew who had cast the spell. Two heads on each of the beasts were completely lifeless, leaving only the center on each. Weakened and angry, they knew they would die. But they would do their best to take Sera out with them. Both heads lunged toward the girl.

Sera closed her eyes, ready for the end. It seemed to be taking it's time. Her hand throbbed in pain. Strangely, she wasn't afraid of death. She had even forgotten that this was a game world and she would respawn, so was her exhaustion and mental state from the wicked magic she used. How could Lucia use a magic like that? That was her last thought as she slipped into unconsciousness.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Once the hydrians were completely dealt with, in whatever manner, the captain would rush to Sera and beckon for Aaron to come too if he had not been hurt any worse after Sera's passing unconscious. "I don't know what sort of black magic that she used, but it very well might have saved us. You too," the captain said to Aaron. "Help me get her to my quarters, she can sleep it off there."

Once Sera was placed in the captain's own bed, the captain would turn to Aaron. "You should stay with her. The men... well, they're sailors. Pretty girl, unconscious, might be a witch? Even decent men forget their morals for even one of those, but all three? Stay by her side. I'll send someone to fetch you when the ship we're chasing is in sight." With that, the captain left his cabin, leaving the two alone.

(Leaving that space between for you to do the rest of the battle, whether you want to just finish it quick or not.)

 

Listening to her he'd smile, If only she had a clue, but that wasn't as important. However, there was something about her that would have made such good waifu material, or wifey. He was unsure what the kids were calling it nowadays. Boy did he feel old, despite being young, there was that gap between him and the young one's and it was odd to think about, but clearly, his terminology was still quite off. He'd remember one time back in high school even as a senior things were different. He had overheard some freshman using lingo and it baffled him.

They called it bun'n it. He for the love of him couldn't figure it out, but then later came to find out that bun'n it was their term for sex; cuz like a hotdog you put it in a bun. So, whatever equivalent she would have been to an in-game wife he'd have definitely considered it. After all, there would be a spouse bonus no, why not marry someone you frequently work with. Although it might have been a bit early for such decisions, the fact she was still seeing someone or spoken for made it difficult.

However, the fact she was short, only raised her chances with him. Even in Real Life, Aaron had a thing for short girls. Made for quite the workout bouncing them all over the place, but perversion aside he'd simply smile and admire his sight. As the events continued to unfold, hearing her take on his joke on blades he'd smile and leave her to guess which it was, because at some point or another he'd probably desire one or the other. So why decide now, let her ponder some. But it wouldn't be long before the combat broke out and the duo began their fight, the two going at it slaying the beast little by little left the creature with all but a few heads.

These very heads were now the source of a dark magic; one Sera cast in a time where Steele's joke might have gone terribly wrong. His joke aimed towards possible danger to his caressing of the bottom now appeared to consider with a possible fear of her dark magic. Although the latter may have startled him; it was not something that would turn him off and away from an ally, just might make him second guess his wise ass remarks, he enjoyed himself and his looks that end result was horrid and something he'd avoid at all costs.

Stabbing away at the beast as he had fallen back and landed he'd note it going at the female who was now passing out before him; unconscious. His shield blocking one as he spun and chop the other's head off. His health low enough that the boosted Berserk state caused severe damage. Severing the head. Yet as he stopped to strike the other it would have attempted to eat her in the process. His eyes widening as he saw this stabbing at the beast and watching her lump in the creature's throat slid lower. His blade missing his chance, but severing the beast again he'd watch it's body slowly slide off and sink into the water.

running he'd open his menu disrobe and remove his gear. As the body sunk off and into the water, he'd grab some rope and dive off towards the water. The crew shouting that he was a madman and a fool he'd ignore as he dove down and would rip open the neck reaching for her hand, pulling her out struggling he'd fight hard to free her. Once he had he'd see a shimmer of light above as the distance now long enough he'd been pulled back up. Holding onto her with one arm and the rope with the other he'd make-shift the rope around them and tie her to his back side. Once secure he'd slowly pull himself and her up along the side of the ship.

The strength and ability to do so just as difficult as it would be in real life; as the game's mechanics didn't cover it; so natural ability and know how seemed to be all he had. Eventually tired and breathing heavily he'd manage to get them both aboard with some help at the end as he was untied and tried to check on her. Not breathing the crew would bow their heads and apologize. A counter of sorts appearing, meaning she hadn't died. Leaning over he'd listen to her heart beat and proceed to give her CPR. Lips meeting her force air into her lungs as he tried again and again before finally water would come up as he rolled her over. Still unconscious as a side effect he'd hear the captain beg for him to help carry her to the quarters to rest.

Nodding he would agree, wiping his eyes; had he been crying or was it sea water? Relieved he'd try to rest some for a moment before lifting her up fatigued and carrying her to the bed within the quarters. Once laid to rest he'd hear the captain and smile, "I already planned too, a man who risked his own life to save a woman like here wouldn't risk anything bad happening to her right?" He said as he slumped over sitting his back to her and closed his eyes to relax. As time passed he fell asleep. The door would open some soon, the captain just coming in to see what was up. Had she awoken she'd soon find out what happened. His clothes still wet and smelling of the ocean; her own too. Yet as the captain spoke he'd smile.

"He be a great man, that boyfriend of ye. Really loves you. Once you passed the damned sea beast ate you alive. He slew its head and jumped in after you. Never seen a man more ballsy, not even I would have done it. Fool or not, it's clear he cares. None the less, once he saved ye, ya wern't breefing. So he gave you some kind of kiss and played wit ye breasts. Somehow it made you cough up water and you seemed to be alive again.

Either that man's a god or he's some sort of witch too. None the less He came back here to watch over you; poor lad must have been dead himself to fall asleep. But I'll leave you be; were not far off. Someone said they saw the ship from the mass, we're nearing our target."

As the captain left and the door shut, Steele would wake up quick raising an invisible sword and shield as if to protect her. "Wait what...shit I fell asleep, is she?" Turning back he'd look to her and smile, "So how'd you sleep princess? Enjoy your nap." he'd say some before rubbing the back of his head, "Oh something happened and well, we both got wet and I may have had to get rough with you some. Sorry, it wasn't in a bad way." he'd say not sure if she knew what happened before sitting on the bed.

"So, you feeling okay like your chest isn't sore or feel like there is water in your lungs?" He'd ask curiously as his hand placed upon her knee, eyes staring into hers as he smiled warmly, "Did you want me to see if they have another blanket, maybe some fresh clothes to keep warm?" What was with him, was Steele falling for her or was he just a man of honor; despite his perversion? Only time would tell.

@Sera Phim

OOC:Drama! Enjoy, balls in your court. I await to see your response.

 

Sera's dreams were haunting. She found herself in a large cream-colored room. The walls went up so high that Sera could not see the ceiling. Was that even possible? There were no doors or windows of any kind in the room, and while there was no light source, the entire room was visible with no appearance of any shadows.

What followed was even stranger. Sera watched as it seemed like something stepped out of her. She felt it pass through the front of her skin, never having touched the back. The figure appeared exactly like her, only instead of any being the correct skin color and hair color, or any type of color, the figure seemed to be made only of pure green energy. Also, she was completely naked. It was at that point that Sera realized she too was completely naked.

She moved to cover herself, but even as she did a second figure stepped out of her. Then a third. Then a fourth, a fifth, a sixth, and a seventh. Each figured looked exactly like her in every way, except for their colors. Yellow, blue, orange, indigo, red, violet. They lined up in a circle around her, this time in the correct rainbow pattern but in such a way that violet flowed into red. Those two seemed to stand closer than any of the others, and indeed, Sera thought their hands seemed to drift sword each other multiple times.

Sera spun slowly as she tried to keep her eye on as many of these figures as she could at a time. Yet as she spun, a glasslike shimmer slowly seemed to form around her, separating her from them all. With a gasp of horror, she realized she was trapped in a seven sided prism shaped exactly like Roy! She slammed her fist against the glass, and she heard six voices of laughter, each so close to her own. She looked and saw that only the violet form was silent, her head lowered as if in sorrow.

Suddenly all the forms dissapeared, and now the room grew dark. One laughter still echoed throughout the room. A familiar laughter. Instinctly, Sera's knees weakened at the sound of it and she had to fight the urge to kneel. The shadows seemed to coalesce into the shape of a woman, but this one did not resemble Sera, but rather Lucia. "Did you enjoy the taste of my power?" The being asked her, and Sera knew that this being was the one which let her use Malefimancy. "I can free you, from this imprisonment. Give yourself to me, even as you have given yourself to the one who's form I use."

Sera opened her mouth to beg for freedom, she couldn't stand to be trapped for even a moment longer, but even as she did, a bright light burst from behind her. She turned to see another familiar form, this time a man. "Aaron?" She asked, tilting her head in confusion.

The man shook his head, though he did appear like Aaron, he seemed to be made of light. "I choose only the form of the most moral person you knew. I... I would suggest you seek better friends, dear child."

"Be gone, you fool. She is mine!" The woman hissed. The man sighed heavily. "She has not chosen one way or the other. Not yet," he turned back to Sera. "Child, do not give into darkness. Do not be corrupted by her whispers. Embrace the light."

Sera looked back and forth between the two as both set their hands against the prism. Light and dark began to flash between the two as they waged a war of magic, with the prism as their battle ground and Sera caught in the middle. She fell to her knees and clutched her head in pain. "Why do I have to choose?" She screamed.

She gasped for breath as she awoke, her dream over. She bolted up and panted. "Dream," she muttered. "Just a dream..." The door opened even as her widened eyes were slowly adjusting to the fact she was back in reality - or at least one type of reality.

The captain's words sounded distant to her. A part of her felt like she should protest against the word the captain used to describe Aaron's relationship to her, but it was nice to actually have such a term suggesting an equality. She laughed softly at the way the man described Aaron's heroics. "Yeah, he's not bad. Don't let him know, though. His ego is big enough as it is."

When Aaron awoke and seemed panicked over her, Sera smiled gently. She didn't answer any of his questions, but instead leaned over and put her head on his shoulder. "I... I was worried you'd leave me," she said softly. "Because of how evil that magic was. I.... I don't want to ever use it again, but what if I have to? Why? Why do I have to choose? Why can't I have both of them? Why can't I be both of yours?" She asked. It would probably seem to Aaron like she was going a little crazy, and if he hadn't moved her head away, he might notice his shoulder getting even more wet as tears streamed from her eyes. "I was so scared... I was trapped. I didn't know it was that bad. Is that how they always feel?" She asked.

Her sobs grew, and she put her arms around Aaron and squeezed hard. After several long minutes of this, she would finally be able to collect herself. "I.... I'm sorry. I... had a bad dream," she said, hoping that would explain it all. "You were in it," she offered. "Well, not you. But he looked like you. I think he was trying to help me."

She looked down at her wet clothes. "Yeah, though... some dry clothes would be nice..." She wrinkled her nose, the smell finally hitting her. "You smell horrible," she said, a weak smile growing on her face. She sat silent for a moment. "I realize you saved my life," she said. She moved closer to him, then paused. Then, she gently put her lips against his cheek, close to his ear. "Thank you," she said once she moved back.

(OOC: Long ass post, but that first part needed to happen lol. You can advance plot again, if you'd like, or I can do it in my next post. Either works)

 

As she spoke, resting her head on him and he gazed down at her he'd smile some shaking his head laughing, "No. Now why would I go and do a thing like that...wait, there isn't another man now is there." he said teasing, "because you said you were with a woman and I remember distinctly requesting you give me the chance to win over your heart." he'd say again teasing as he leaned in some pressing his forehead to hers, their lips close enough that one might mistake the attempt for a kiss. His hands rising up would ruffle her hair as he pulled away. "I couldn't leave you anyways, your actions are those of your own. I am not one to judge you, that is not my place. I am but a hero, if we decided who was and wasn't worth saving then we'd have no right to call ourselves the hero.

Sometimes we must kill, but only when there is nothing left worth saving. When one is too far gone, plunged into the depths of darkness; giving into hate. Those who wish to kill others are the ones we have to try and save the most. However, in the case of things such as beast, they have no instinct beyond the basics instincts to live. Something unintelligent and that can't be helped; so we give them mercy. Those who are to far gone, no longer have their humanity and like beasts, we give them mercy; beg for forgiveness and go about our lives. But those with even a glimmer of light, hope. It is those who we save, those who live. Over time, their light will grow or it will fade; turning to the beast.

As for you, I see it. Unlike these monsters, we fight, what you claim you are. Unlovable, something to be feared. No, I see a light.however small it may be, reaching out. A fire gasping for oxygen. With some care, and fuel to keep it going, I plan to make it a raging one, one of justice, peace, love. I will help you realize who you really are, the hero or the villain. Either path you walk, any choice you make will be of your own accord, of your choice and it will define you. But it is with that definition I hope with my aid, will unite our lights; be it a single candle together two souls combined or two candles side by side protecting one another from the dark. I won't ever give up on you, my light is too strong; I will protect you from the darkness as long as my light stands firm."

He'd say smiling, before arching a brow confused by her words; noting the tears. Wiping them he'd shake his head and smile, "Wait why are you crying. What choice do you have to make, between who? I'm confused, I never said you'd have to choose between me and this darkness. I said I'd be here no matter your choice; I'd never give up on you. I'd be your light, you could be my darkness. We could Co-Exist in harmony, keeping one another in check." He'd say laughing some before biting his lip some,

Feeling her arms around him made his heart beat faster, his stomach flutter as his arms wrapped back around her slender frame; muscular arms holding her tight. Perhaps too tight which might explain the squeak as he loosened his grip. Her words still explaining as he chuckled some resting his chin over her shoulder, "Sounds like me, sounds better than me in some ways. But definitely something I'd do..." His eyes shifted as he thought about it. Her joke passing by him after he offered to get clothes. But her following actions caught him off guard as she kissed his cheek and thanked him. A heavy tint of pink covering his cheeks, "Y-your welcome..." he'd say tuning to hide his face. "Alright I will go grab some clothes...although can I be honest?"

"I've been thinking about this a lot lately. I'm a shielder, but I think I could be more...a hero is fine but what kind. I think...I think it's this moment I've figured it out. I....I'm going to become a paladin. A Holy Warrior who protects and heals those hurt, ironic though. A man so perverted and damaged himself, seeking purpose in fixing and protecting others; at the cost of his own life. Yes; I'll become a paladin. I'm going to look into this. Remember this day, this will be the day I decided to become a Paladin, but not just any Paladin." he'd say turning around smiling wide; a goofy grin no longer hiding his blush.

"Your Paladin. Alright, I'll look into this when I get back, til then stay dressed til I get back with clothes for you alright?" he'd say chuckling as he walked off and out of the room to get some clothing. Returning he'd knock on the door, "All decent, I got the clothes." He'd say entering hoping it was clear as he placed them on the bed and pointed out towards the door. "I'll just go change on deck....alright?" he said heading towards the door as to avoid making it awkward.

@Sera Phim
OOC: Your turn, you take the lead; this is your story. I'm just a side character.

 

Sera blushed when the man said he had requested a chance to win her heart. "I don't remember anything like that," she huffed. "But you're certainly not wasting that chance..." she breathed, not sure how to respond to them being so close. The tension dissolved quickly when he ruffled her hair instead of doing anything else.

When he gave his big speech about being a hero, she found herself listening closely. To his voice, more than his words, up until he started speaking about light and candles. "I think... I think I'd like to be a candle. Maybe not exactly a roaring fire, or anything like that. And maybe not exactly the type of candle that gets rid of all the darkness in a room... but it does sound nice, to be involved in bringing about a bit of light."

As her arms were around him, she knew she'd made her choice. But this time, she resolved to go slower. A lot slower. She noticed the blush on his face and couldn't help but to giggle. She grabbed his hand, feeling the dampness from where he had wiped her face to clear it of tears. She held it the whole time he talked about being a paladin, unless he pulled away. At that, she couldn't help but to have a hearty laugh and a big smile. "I can see it. I guess I already did, in a way. You'll need someone at your side to make sure all that perviness doesn't get you in trouble, though." She poked his side with her spare hand. "But hey, I know a bit of illumancy myself. Not much, it's my second least used magic, right after.... that other one. But maybe I can help you practice once you start learning it?"

She let go of his hand for him to go get the clothes. When he came back with fresh clothes and offered to go change on the bridge, she frowned for a moment. "That'd be public indecency. And, honestly, you know the stereotype with sailors, you really sure you wanna strip near a whole bunch of them?" She asked. That did leave a conundrum of what to do. She sighed. "Alright, both of us turn around, don't face the other, and no looking. I mean it! No looking," she said, taking her fresh clothes from him and backing away. She turned around, but kept an eye on him until he did the same.

She took her time changing, doing her best to wipe off any water or saliva still on her with her shirt once it was off. When she had finished, she started to turn around herself, but quickly caught herself and didn't. "Is it okay for me to turn around?" She asked. Briefly, she wondered if he had looked. Not that she would have particularly minded - she was shirtless the first time they met anyway.

Once they were both decent, she would try to usher Aaron out of the room so that any awkwardness wouldn't linger. By the time they exited the cabin, the ship they were trying to catch up to was within a stone's throw of their own ship. "Wow," Sera said. "We made good time."

Proper hails were made, and the two ships pulled along side each other. A plank was set for the two to walk across. Sera deftly leapt onto the plank and crossed with ease. She turned back to Aaron and grinned mischievously at him. "Don't worry, I'll catch you if you fall," she said.

Standing on the ship's deck, beneath the mast, were a man and a woman, their arms interlinked. "I think those might be who we're looking for..." Sera said to Aaron, motioning to them. "She doesn't look very kidnapped to me."

 

A faint smile passed as the talked, his actions following through as he felt the urge to kiss her so he'd do just that, but upon her forehead. Feeling her arms around him and her holding one hand he'd leave it be a bit listening to her words before the clothing conversation came up; disappearing. Returning he'd hear her thoughts about the sailors, "Oh are you sure, I figured you'd fight them off me cuz you don't like to share, but if your the type to sit back and watch...I'm afraid there isn't much of a show there for you to see." he'd say laughing some before he'd inquire on her feelings further. Hearing her offer. A faint blush passing he'd rub the back of his head looking down and away, "You really think I'd turn that up. Hell if you weren't so into this turn around thing I'd strip down and let you see what you're missing out on." he said teasing some before slowly sliding up his shirt and sighing, turning his back and following along with her plan.

A faint blush passed as he turned his head some to peek, barely missing her as she spoke. Biting his lip some he'd grin and drop his trousers standing gallantly naked he'd give her the okay, hands on his hip and standing proud feet spread some waiting for her to fall into his trap."You have a cute butt...oh and I'm totally dressed, in my birthday suit." he'd say like a wise guy; being a bit cocky with his figure; given how he treated his body and worked hard for it to be the way it was. It came to no surprise he wanted to mess with her and boast some; being confident in himself he took a shot in the dark, perhaps turning the otherwise wise ass into a blushing schoolgirl; but did he.

Regardless of her reaction, he'd smirk some cockily as he got dress and gave her a wink. Perhaps a bit more awkward than intended she'd rush him out the room, "What, no tracing of my muscles or licking of your lips...really underwhelming, I was hoping to hold you in my arms and have that long lustful look followed by that brief moment where our lips almost touch and you just bite my chest instead angry before pouting off while I stare at the glory that is your ass. But this plan, yeah, way more fun...then again still not a single candle. So time and patience I suppose." he would say hoping his words might get to her, if not plant some seeds of thoughts in her mind. A friendly reminded that he is not only a guardian but probably going to be the leading cause of her heart attacks.

As they saw the ship not far off he'd walk over slowly putting on his low end gears as he walked over towards the other ship, watching her walk across the plank, "Oh, you sure. I was admiring the view." he'd say jumping a bit on the plank to make them bounce, "Oh you'd save me this time, my hero, shall I give you a kiss my brave warrior." he'd say teasing some before his hands slid over to her waist gently guiding them as they walked across, "Mmm feels like I've found where my hands belong, But then again you woman got better balance than men, wide hips better center of gravity." he said teasingly before sweeping her off her feet and carrying her bridal style before letting her own and noting her words,

"Shit your right. Guess I was right, Yo! You two some sort of lovers whose parents hate each other. Maybe you two making some kids some day. Like me and my lover?" he said sliding up behind her trying to play on a feeling of mutual understanding as he leaned down kissing Sera's neck noting the other males smile. "Play along." he'd whisper laughing some wrapping his arms up around her pulling her body close.As they made their way over he'd pull off, sliding one hand around her waist reaching out to shake hands and make small talk. Perhaps updating the quest log with more information. His hand gently squeezing as to tease at Sera's side he'd listen to the banter some before turning to the other.

"That reminds me of the first time we met, she was totally drunk, topless and that was when I knew I had to be with her. So beautiful, all the scars, imperfections, each told a story and I knew I wanted to be a part of someone with such character, so many stories and the best part. She could handle her liquor. Got to love a woman with a beautiful body and who can party with the rest right." he said his hand pulling her a bit close as they banter continued and he slid a hand lower towards her butt seeing how far she'd let him go with his little ploy at the same time get away with as much as he could.

Eyes shifting to her with a grin testing the waters as he teased her but at the same time noted another sailor staring and chatting. Pausing he'd walk over and wave him over to whisper into his ear, "Call her that again and I promise you I'll break your jaw the next time." he'd look confused as he went to question him only to get popped in the chin hard. Returning he;d shake his head, "I'm sure you must be glad these men aren't saying that about your lady. Oh that she's easy on the eyes and easy to reach between the thighs. I'd really consider heading home. I wouldn't trust some of these men on the ship; unless you personally know them. Even on our ship, the captain warned us; men at see a pretty lass. What say we bring you home. We can protect you two. We'll explain what's up and resolve the issue. Sound good?" he'd say as he looked back to Sera hoping his actions were approved by her.

@Sera Phim

 

Sera wasn't entirely sure how to react when she turned around and saw Aaron stark naked. She gasped and took a step back and started to turn back around, worried she'd turned around too soon. But he did clearly give her the okay... She began to laugh. "You jerk!" She said, throwing her dirty clothes at him. He certainly wasn't bad looking though. And... "Oh my goddess!" She said. "Did you seriously.... did you make it bigger just because you could?" She asked and laughed even harder. Not mockingly, but rather treating it all as the joke it was. "Get dressed," she said with a chuckle as she shook her head. "I guess it's not technically a picture, so my previous threat doesn't stand." She grinned at him.

His furthered teasing of her was met with the same laughter. But before they did leave the door, she did grow somber for a moment. "In all seriousness... I would prefer anything between us move a bit slowly. I... I at least need to talk to the woman, fully explain everything. End that relationship before I move on to another. Even if everything hasn't been healthy for me, it's the right thing to do," she said. "So just... keep everything with our clothes on, for a while?" She asked. She wouldn't wait for him to answer as she exited the cabin.

She rolled her eyes as his hands traced her hips as they crossed the plank. She decided to ignore both the man's comments. His attempt to lift her was met with a shriek and another bout of laughter, but no actual resistance. "No, put me down," she said, but by the smile on her face and the laughter in her voice she would assure him it didn't bother her.

At their play of being a couple to better connect with the other couple, Sera felt strangely comfortable. She laughed when he shared how they met. "I was not completely drunk!" She cried, nudging Aaron playfully. "No wait, I protested the wrong part," she hung her head and laughed a bit. "Okay, yeah, I was pretty wasted. But this guy was all sitting dark and broody at a fireplace! Though I'll be honest, I don't remember much other than that," she said with another laugh. That laughter was cut short and she jumped a bit when Aaron touched her ass. She smiled wide. "Dear, we're in public," she remind him. She turned to the girl and shook her head. "Men, am I right?"

The girl gave Sera and understanding nod, and then smiled at the man. All three watched Aaron's little show, and the man and woman shared a look when Aaron said they could go home. "My father," the girl said. "He doesn't approve of Rouger and I."

Sera looked back to the ship. Sure enough, the remains of the fight earlier had still not been completely cleaned off. "Do you think your father might approve once he knows how mighty of a warrior Rouger is, how he single handedly slew a hydrian to protect you?"

Rouger tilted his head. "But how would we convince him of such a thing?"

Sera gestured toward their own ship. "Well, we have one's head back there."

Rouger and the girl took a step away to talk between themselves. Sera used that oppertunity to turn to Aaron. "You okay with letting him take the credit, letting them use our story as theirs?" She asked him.

The couple returned, and the girl spoke. "We want to thank you for doing this. Yes, we will return with you. I don't want my father to miss out on meeting his grandchild..." she touched her stomach lightly.

Sera's eyes widened and her mouth opened in excitement. "Oh my gosh! I'm so happy for you!" She turned and basically drummed her hands on Aaron's arm. "They're having a baby!" She squealed.

When Sera was eventually calmed down, she would lead the four back to the other ship to where the hydrian head was. "Now... I can open up an Astral Gateway, and we can just teleport back to town, be back instantly. Is everyone fine with that?"

"Oh, please," the woman said. "With the child, I have had terrible seasickness." Rouger nodded as well.

Unless Aaron ardently objected, then, Sera would begin her chant, waving her arms in opposing circles until a purple disk began to float before them. "Just step through here, and we'll all be back home," she said. "Someone make sure to grab the head."