She listened to @Akino Kokoro Ame as she worked, the pick digging into grooves and her arms working with the leverage her weight provided to pry parts of a handful of rubble at a time. She found a nugget of truth in his words just as she found a nugget of gold itself from her work. She certainly agreed that she didn't feel a call to joining under a common banner save that of her fellow rangers, hunters, druids, and the like who roamed the wilderness apart and yet together. There was a quiet understanding between their kind in game and people like Sabine in the real world. The gaps between the trees, the rustle of leaf and pine straw, the grit of trail under foot, and the wide horizons yawning before one claimed you as surely as any loyalty sworn could. It owned you and you'd never feel at home as you did under a canopy of branches or stars. "No, no they don't typically." She responded to his rhetorical question quietly. Not in the cities they didn't. In her walk of life though, if you ran across somewhere there was either a subtle dismissal as you went your separate ways or an immediate companionship where supplies, information, and campsites were shared. She'd once spent two weeks on a lake's shore with two married women who were happy to share their campfire and hunting grounds out in the middle of the park they'd all vanished into for their respective reasons. She didn't like the cities for the noise and she definitely didn't like them for the people. So, no, she knew exactly how unkind and callous people could be, but not in a personal manner. Gwyn and Sabine both avoided that nonsense. "I'm not sure that I entirely agree about why some people don't help," she said, "but I can't really say why or say what other reason there is. Doesn't make either of us right or wrong I guess. I wish I could believe that some people weren't just bad. That they were capable of touching something and it not ended up rotted or stained. But I don't. Sounds like a nice way to look at things and a better way to live. Less bitterness. I don't meet people like that though, well, didn't used to." The beast tamer wasn't necessarily moved by his belief, but she couldn't help but smile slightly at the eloquence he put into his words and used to underline his beliefs. He could have swayed even a god to action or to peace, she'd wager. She could certainly hear an even larger smile in his voice as he spoke to wrap up that particular speech. "I get what you mean. Though I don't like the title of hero, regardless of the name of the guild. It doesn't sit right. I'm not a hero. I'm more and I'm less, but I'm not ever that." Gwyn's lips twisted, but she wasn't sure what to call her own expression or emotion in terms of the hangup she had over it. She'd put the discomfort of a guild to rest and knew it was smarter, knew it was better, for her and for them. Strength in numbers. Strength of the wolf was the pack and vice versa. The hero thing was flavor for some and truth for others, but she was content to dance around it. She paused to snatch up the gold nugget she had found before and took a moment to survey the rest. Another diamond joined its kin, as well as another piece of coal. Which was, in honesty, just a diamond that hadn't been given enough time to reach its potential. She wondered what it was like to be something so mundane next to something so brilliant and to know you would never get to join it in that kind of glory. Good thing rocks were dead as door nails. The two metal ores clanged loudly in the cart and she felt the rabbit kick against her sternum for a second before he settled. She shushed him quietly and returned to the challenge. [ Coal: 3 | Metal Ore: 2 | Gold Nuggets: 1 | Emeralds: 2 | Diamonds: 2 ] [ Total: 56 ] Thrown dice: 29 63 58 4 98
"I agree with you. The title is an arrogant one, and worthless. Only worth something to pompous fools who wish to claim glory and fame. The only time it is the real deal is when its not sitting over your name, but on the lips of others. If you walk past people in the street, and they are smiling at you for helping save them or provide assistance, that's all a real hero needs. But never should it be something lauded and proclaimed, as it to say they are better. A hero is someone who walks away from glory, and into tragedy. Never yielding, never ceasing their stride towards good works. They live to help, pure and simple. So if you ask me, the fact that you spit on the title shows just how true to it you can be. Still, I believe you can be a hero." One. Two. Swing! One, two, swing! One-two, swing! The clatter of stone and steel never ceased, the blade of their picks gleaming in the few lanterns set up around the cavern. They rose, they fell, just like the banter of their conversation. The woman seemed to have a very middle-ground perspective. Which was far better than a pessimistic one, if you asked Akino. Likewise, he enjoyed the fact that she was humble. It was a mighty fine trait, and not one common among most of the folk in this game. Giving a loud, impressed whistle, he looked over his haul so far. Not too shabby. He was doing pretty slick with his four gold pieces, and four emeralds! With only two coal chunks to show for it, he was starting to wander if he might overtake Gwny's haul. He could see that she had uncovered quite a few diamonds though, so it was going to be a close one. Neck and neck, or pick and pick, as it were. A cat's grin replacing his previous dreamer's smile, the felis' tail gave his excitement up immediately. As his energy rose, so too did the speed with which it flicked about. If he was ever going to play poker in this world, he'd need to get a handle on that. Carrying the bunch of fine gems in the raw to his cart, he rolled them in, looking up at Ju-ju to see what the fuzzy fella was up to. He was sitting there patiently, batting a pebble back and forth. Upon sensing Akino looking at him, the panda-pom would bounce up and give a call to him. "We're not doing half bad, Ju! If we keep this up, we'll have enough coin to buy you a month's supply of bamboo! Or we could just go grab some from Adecus. Would you like that, bud?" The beastie's response was to do a quick spin, then return to chewing on his faux-chute. Chuckling, the redhead moved to a new wall, getting right back to it. "You're right, by the way. Neither of us can be wrong or right in a matter like this. But I do know one thing. If you believe at least one hundred people can do great good, then at least one of them will believe in his or herself and give it a shot. We can never lose hope, and we can never stop believing in the fact that we can do better. It is the age old dream that has been carried within us for thousands of years, and it is part of the reason we are where we are. If human's settled for what they were, instead of striving to do better, we would never have evolved the way we have." This was the truth for him, he sounded very resolute and passionate as he spoke the words over the clang-clang. Truly, he appreciated the girl for lending him her ear, despite how radical and hopeful his talk was. People often ignored or rejected any topics deeper than 'Who'd you feck last night, John?' It was enough to drive the young man mad with all his pent up thoughts; wonder and ponder had boiled him over, spilled from his brim to the point where one could see it physically. [Coal: 2] [Ore: 0] [Gold: 4] [Emerald: 4] [Diamond: 0] Points: 60! Thrown dice: 56 30 42 99 44 @Gwyn ap Herne
Rye was tempted to go mining with the other two, but she already had a few points within the fishing contest. Oh well. Shrugging mindlessly, she remained quiet. Rye was still rather quiet since admitting that she didn't have a lot of friends within the real world outside of Terrasphere. She just had her job as a curator in a museum, her small cat, and herself. She talked to her co-workers sure, but it wasn't the same thing as a real friendship. Or at least, that's what Rye told herself. The felis's hands tightened on the fishing pole that she flung in, reeling in a small fish a few moments later. Tilting her head up at the sky, she inhaled deeply for a few seconds, then exhaled it. The large sigh was something she needed, and as she killed her most recent catch, she baited the rod at the same time. Then she flung it into the waters and waited. And waited. Several minutes later produced a large tug at the end of her pole, sending the felis nearly flying forward. This was about the same size from earlier! Smiling widely, she forgot about what she admitted about fifteen minutes ago and pulled the fish onto the mossy bank. Killing it swiftly, she loaded the large fish on top of the others and quickly baited the fishing line again. Another swing of the pole, and she was waiting for a few more minutes before she decided to reel the pole in again. Much to Rye's surprise, there was a small fish on her hook, wriggling like a worm and trying to get loose. Her face adopted a look of amusement, before she snagged it and carefully loosened it from the bait. From there, she added more on and flung the line into the water. This fishing has to be unrealistic, Rye thought as she scooped out a rather large fish from the water, pretty much falling in and grabbing it by both hands. As she killed it and flung it on top of her other kills, Rye slipped on a wet rock and went flying forward into the large pond of water. Hissing and spitting, the female flailed for a good while and generally looked unhappy. Oh, she knew how to swim, but she fell! Pouting briefly, she stumbled and slipped her way back up the mud to sit in her spot. Moments later, Rye was laughing helplessly. She had fallen into it, disturbing the fish! She would be lucky to even catch another one. Rebaiting her pole, Rye flung the line a little farther than usual and waited patiently while the others chatted next to her. After a few long minutes, the line tugged again. With another grin of exhilaration, Rye reeled in the line and was briefly amused at the medium sized fish she had pulled in. What else could she pull in next? Thrown dice: 100 58 7 79 33 total as of current rolls: small 6 medium 4 large 4 XL 1 current accumulated points of all rolls: total 51
"Sounds like you're progressing nicely, then." A tiny tug at his line pulled his attention back to the water, but he ended up frowning in disappointment as he reeling in the smallest fish he had ever seen. Calling it a minnow would be charitable. Even so, he laughed along with @Aaron Steele, then laughed even harder when the guild leader pulled in a similarly-sized fish. "My bad luck must be rubbing off on you," he teased in return, baiting his line and casting it again. It didn't take long before the bobber vanished underwater, and Zaos gripped the fishing rod tighter as he felt the size of the fish on the other end of the line. "Oh?" Several more pulls on the line followed, confirming that he had a large catch on his hands. The next pull was a violent one, nearly tearing the rod from Zaos' grasp and dragging the Faerin into the water. "Ack!" He let out a yelp when he resurfaced, scrambling to find his footing on the slippery bottom while still hanging on to the fishing rod. He wasn't going to let this one get away! The next few minutes were filled with tension as the small Faerin fought with the giant fish, nearly losing it several times. Sweat soon began to pour down his face as he wrestled with the creature, slowly backing up until he was back on the bank and the firm footing it offered. He could feel the strain in his arms and shoulders as he painstakingly reeling the fish in, but finally it sat on the bank next to him. Making sure it was dead, Zaos stumbled over to the cooking pot and grabbed some water. "Guess my luck changed," he joked weakly. Zaos was relaxing there when someone else arrived, recognizing @Akino Kokoro Ame from the meeting. "Hello, Akino," he said in reply to the man's greeting, flashing him a quick smile. "Thanks for the food!" He grabbed a meat-filled bun from the offerings and returned to his spot, placing the monster fish in his inventory before digging into the food. When asked about his motivations to join the guild, he thought about it for a while. Researching the guild system was his true reasoning, but the others didn't need to know that. "I seek companionship as well," he said at last. "Playing a game like this alone isn't much fun, and this guild sounded interesting." He grinned when @Rye Emerson fell into the water, amused by her cat-like reaction. "Not very warm, is it?" he called. His clothes had mostly dried out from his own impromptu swim, but he had no desire to go back into the water. Finishing his food, he cast his line out again. (Small Fish: 4 Medium Fish: 7 Large Fish: 6 XL Fish: 1. Total Points: 55) Thrown dice: 17 21 93 73 59
As the male had talked some sort of big game, ultimately getting hit by karma he'd soon realize just what was going on. Once Rye arrived and his banter sparked some key facts he'd smile nodding,"Alright, then we'll have to make sure to get you a piano for the guild hall to sing and play, unless you prefer to just sing, sure someone can play it." he'd say chuckling as they spoke, his brow arching, "No way, I thought I was the only one affected by this, well I mean. It's a bit different. Like I had no real desire to fall in love in the game if I may be so bold, but I then met Sera and well. My feelings seemed to emulate both here and the real world. I wonder if it's a psychological thing cuz of the VR." he' says contemplating more on the matter, "Imagine if that were true, some gruesome death experiences might trigger some real serious Post traumatic stress disorders in the real world. Maybe that is why we experience some of the pain and not all of it. Although, maybe that is why I've come to rather enjoy some of the more masochistic tendencies. I use to hate the feeling of hitting my fist against the bars in the gym; the pain was just terrible. But since becoming a berserker. I find it more exhilarating and it fills me with adrenaline. Maybe like some of those monks who break their bones so they heal stronger. I just crave the endorphins released through pain and relate it to pleasure and a boost." He'd say analyzing the new behaviors, "But maybe it's just us, what about the rest of you. Notice any changes in moods, mind sets and so forth. When I first got here I noted that killing stuff and fighting in combat was nothing; it was just a game. But having this so life like, it feels kinda real sometimes, too real. It's made me think twice about life and even got me feeling that sometimes it's more precious than we realize. Hell, I took up the paladin path to not only protect but give back life. It's a really odd feeling, but it's not bad. Almost like this game is teaching us lessons about our true selves and natures. Maybe that or it's fucked with us mentally. I can't be the only one who notices that when fighting you can feel your blade hit vital organs or see just how severe and damaged things get. I mean not to sound dark, but we kill monsters all the time. Even beasts, we can hear their cries, their final breaths for life and even ultimately become immune if not accepting of it. In a weird way, our tendencies although just a natural reaction in a game. Leave me a bit concerned for my real life habits. Will I one day see something killed and not care?" he said questioning his own philosophies. Eyes shifting between three of them as he got too deep two quick he'd simmer down and try to relax. His pole reeling in a few fish, small, then medium. Before the fish was hooked; a tiny little thing on the line as he was reeling in. Before suddenly a big hit, his pole jerking him to his feet, "FUCK!" he'd say as the line nearly snapped; releasing the bail some as the fish took off, locking it once more he'd fight with it releasing the reel, trying to tire it out. Yet in doing so, he'd walk with it around the lake, it wouldn't take too long but eventually, this would lead to the catching of the extra large fish who had eaten his small fish; an upgrade so he wouldn't complain. As it seemed to be a struggle for power he had eventually managed to reel in the beast and grin, "There we go, took a while but finally, we got a good competition going." Having now taken the lead back he'd grin, his next to bites worthy of his good luck. Two more large. Yet this wasn't the end of his streak; no, it wasn't long before the other in the party to hit it big with fish. Watching each one noting what size fish they'd pull in. He was a bit flabergasted at the felis, "No fucking way, you legit caught an XL sized fish this quick. No way you cats don't get a boost, that or you are crazy lucky." he said laughing the latter probably being true otherwise he had a new business venture idea; involving lots of cats, fishing, and paid services in gold point as well as milk. Eyes shifting he'd cast his line in and out, catching various sized fish as he did so, only now once more speaking. "So, a sneaky kitty with claws. I like it. Your builds are interesting, to say the least. However, I can attest to that, I don't have many friends either, despite being as genuinely chill as I am here. It's more employees and acquaintances if not students and folks I train. I own and run a gym, in case none of this makes sense." he'd say before reeling in another fish. Thrown dice: 24 54 40 15 19 [80 Points: 4 Small | 9 Medium | 11 Large | 1 XL]
The combined clamor of their mining filled the cavern as they worked against one another to help one another... help another. It seemed the knight of a man leading the guild certainly knew one way to earn a few bucks and some influence. Fishing and mining for the NPCs would apparently net them a cash reward and, of course, would help them out. It was slightly disquieting to know that the NPCs lived, died, had children, aged, just like they would back home. Here they were immortal people from a foreign land, an entire realm different from that of the game mechanic population. Famine and war blighted this realm and their own. She paused in her work at the idea. People came here to escape their reality, but did they look at the NPCs and for even a second think "I'll die just like them?" No, no they thought this was a game and bad things only happen on screen or on paper in the real world. They came here and forgot they were mortal. @Akino Kokoro Ame continued to speak of heroes and whether they existed and proclaimed that the only heroes were the ones who never called or considered themselves that. She was happy enough to be distracted away from that depressing path and couldn't help the sharp laugh in response. "It's not that I don't think the title could be applied to me if I do good, more that I don't want it. I don't want people to smile at me in thanks or laud my actions." She moved gathered her reaped rewards once more to take to her cart as he did his. "I just want to be able to walk, to run, to fight, god, to climb. This game gives me that. If helping out NPCs by doing quests, slaying beasts, or standing in a dank cave that smells of moss and is starting to smell of sweat is heroic? Well, good for everyone else. I don't mind doing good, but I'm not going out of my way to do it. Just... existing. Not everything has to be more than it appears, monk." She said the final word with an obviously teasing tone. There was a good moment where they compared and she narrowed her eyes at her competition and cracked her neck sharply, playing up the faked tension for the fun of it. He paused to speak to his pet while she returned to mining, watching with sharp eyes as another diamond clattered to her feet. The two, long ears of her pet popped up over the top of her shirt and swiveled to follow the echo of the sound as it carried on down the tunnel. They vanished quickly from the sharp ping of the pick on her next swing. Akino joined in a moment later and they continued the odd little working song of mining through pick and rock and breathing and- talking. Talking, always, with this one. "Well that at least I can agree with." The image of soaring mountains and cliffs hung in the dark behind her eyelids as she closed them for a second to drink in the memories. "Challenging oneself, there's nothing greater. There's nothing better than the rush of moving up that extra bit. Climbing up to a precipice and thinking 'I can't go any farther than this' and then an hour later you're a handful of stone away from the next. In a day you climb a mountain and you stand at the top and think and say and scream: I did it." She was breathless with the wonder of it, an excitement building up in her chest as she spoke and a bone deep love colored her words. While Gwyn knew that wasn't quite what he was talking about she just couldn't quite stop herself anymore. "I can't begin to imagine anything as disgusting as settling. How can people be comfortable being... comfortable? That hoping and fighting for more only to obtain it and never be finished because there's still somewhere to go after you reach that point? I wouldn't give it up for anything. I'll do it again, here and back there. A temporary setback won't stop me and I'll be damned if electric dreams from a machine around my head think they can either." By the end of her words, there was a snarl under the surface that rode along with the passion. The next strike was powerful enough to send a powerful rattle up her arms and down into even the bones of her feet. [ Coal: 4 | Metal Ore: 3 | Gold Nuggets: 2 | Emeralds: 3 | Diamonds: 3 ] [ Total: 85 ] Thrown dice: 79 98 56 60 16
As the male continued to fish, his words filling the ears of the other's he'd soon rise from his seat and begin to walk along the pond one after another his luck once more sinking to utter shit, small fish after another, until he hit a few medium sized fish. "Hmmm, I think I'm a walk about for a bit, think more on this game and really get into it. I mean, maybe this specific spot is over fished now, getting nothing but crap fish. I'll turn in what fish we have caught and gather our gold. I also might think about renting some boats, I can't imagine the real keepers are staying this close inland. Matter of fact, no. I'm gonna go rent a few boats, while I'm at it. Be right back." He'd say reeling in his line in and gathering the fish, had anyone wished to give him a hand with such a task, he'd warmly accept the offer as he went off once more to gather the fish and place them in a small cart of sorts. Dragging them along the beaten dirt path to the man who rented him the equipment. His eyes shifting he'd offer the male the fish gathered, well over the expected amount, yet he'd try and haggle, doing the same back they agreed upon some fair assessment given he three XL fish caught thus far; now shifting his attention to the boats he'd rent a few and begin bringing them over. One by one, setting up some poles, new fresh bait and some water buckets to host the fish. Eyes scanning each boat to make sure it was not only safe, undamaged and free of holes he'd motion those who showed up to join him, "Hey, come on guys, get in the boats and lets see what beasts lay asleep in the deepest parts of this pond." he'd say confidently as he took the first boat with him and pulled it into the water, "Who wants to join me?" he'd ask offering only one other to join him. His eyes locking with the first voice he'd here as he motioned for them to join him. Once inside he'd begin to row and smile, "Sweet looks like we are gonna be partnered up here. At least with two people per boat, we can utilize the bonus still. Although it might be harder to do so knowing we still can't exactly catch whatever we want as long as we want. We'll need to make trips back to sell and empty our load; I am not the lightest guy around so we'll have a lower weight capacity compared to others." he'd say rubbing the back of his head, "None the less, I think we'll be fine. I'm doing fairly well today; although honestly, we are doing fairly well in general." he'd say talking about the guild as a whole. Yet as they slowly made their way out towards the middle of the pond he'd grin. Gently rocking the boat he'd tease the other, "Rock the boat, don't rock the boat baby, rock the boat, don't tip the boat over..." he'd sing playfully before he decided to stop and wave his hand as if to console them assuring them he was done. His hands now on his rod, he'd bait it and cast that bad boy out into the water. Smiling now he'd try and old fashion method of jiggling the worm in hopes of attracting a dumb enough fish, whether this worked or not, usually mattered little so long as the result ended in a fish, big or not the size usually net some profit and for an easy task as such the set up he had used cost him a little under a few hundred coins, and already; they've broken even and made a nice profit. Although it was now past noon and well into three or so, getting closer to midday the male knew that he wasn't exactly going to make a million gold pieces. But he did know that if they did this a few times a month they'd be able to pay for almost anything the guild would need with ease; including properly gearing up his followers. But this was neither here nor there. His line getting a bit would result in his setting the hook and reeling it in, or up in this case as he caught his first fish off the boat; strangely satisfied he'd nod, "Alright, guess it might be best if we. Take into consideration the effects of bait, I feel this bait works adequately over here, compared to on the shore line, you ever fished in the real world, ever gut and deboned your own catch. I did a few times with my father. When he wasn't a drunken bastard he wasn't the worst man. I missed the days before the death of my mother. When I was a boy, we use to do this all the time." he'd say some before looking off into the distance sad some. Thrown dice: 91 27 12 25 37 [87 Points: 7 Small | 11 Medium | 11 Large | 1 XL]
Blinking up at @Aaron Steele curiously, Rye took a moment to process his exclamations of surprise before grinning at him as cheekily as she could. "Oops?" despite a slight sheepish edge, her green eyes sparkled both cheekily and playfully at the guild leader. Baiting her fishing pole again, the feline flung the line as far as she could across the fishing pond, lake, whatever it was. "Ha, I'm not that lucky." Rye muttered, thoughtfully rubbing her chin. "I just like to fish." she admitted carefully, stifling a yawn that wanted to take over her face. For a moment, Rye stared at the fishing pole in hand with a kind of tired look spread across her pretty features. Emerald eyes peered into the semi-blueish brown water indifferently, occasionally flicking upwards to blink at the fishing line in front of her. It took a bit, but when she felt the pole jerk lightly, Rye's head flew up to eye the lake curiously. What exactly was on the end of her line? A harder jerk and wider ripple caused the female felis's eyes to widen slightly. Then all of a sudden, the fishing pole was nearly yanked from her hands, but Rye furiously tightened her grip with ever wider green eyes. What the hell was happening? The prey beneath the surface was- the muddy grass beneath her bottom was moving? No, she was moving! Frantically yanking her fishing pole backwards and trying to reel in, Rye struggled not to be pulled in for the second time in a row. "What the hell is on the end of my fishing line?!" she vocalized aloud, her voice surprised and slightly frustrated. With her words, Rye's hands loosened slightly, and that was all it took for the young felis to be yanked forward with a cat-like shriek of surprise. The twenty-year old plunged into the cold water, warbling with unhappiness and shock. The fish she had caught was huge! Coughing violently, Rye popped her head above the water and dove under water to catch the extra large fish. Before Steele had taken the catches off, she would snag a few more fish while she was at it with the pole. A medium, a small, a large] and another small. Once she had helped him lug the other fish to the guy who would rent them the boats. With the boats in the water, Rye wiped her hands briefly and smiled at a few of her guild-mates with a distinct air of satisfaction. When Aaron asked who wanted to go with him, she forced down the urge to immediately volunteer. What if someone else wanted to go with him? "Ah, would you mind if I accompanied you too terribly?" she inquired before she could stop herself. Then she flushed at his motion towards her and she hopped inside the boat. As he spoke, Rye couldn't help but agree with what he was saying. To pretty much everything, as it was fairly obvious to her. "Hah, if we tipped the boat over, you'd be down in the water first." she teased, a joking grin on her face. "Let's just not have it sink under your weight, yeah?" Emerald eyes sparkled with humor as she added this additional crack at his weight. Snagging her own pole, she added bait to it and tossed the line fairly far out. "Yeah, I've fished before. I've a bit of an obsession with it really, as I genuinely love to eat it. I can usually fish enough to earn a several year supply of frozen meat." Bumping into his shoulder with a gentle smile and in a friendly manner, she resumed staring out into the lake with a semi-wistful gaze. "Everything's going to turn out okay in the end, you just have to make it so." she murmured quietly. Thrown dice: 14 99 92 47 62 (51 points: large - 4, medium - 4, small - 6, XL - 1)
As @Rye Emerson had commented on her luck, only to second guess herself upon her larger fish he'd laugh, as the banter continued on mildly as he spoke and went on his way gathering materials and the boats needed to venture off deeper into the waters. He'd eagerly let her join hoping some of that luck might rub off on him, that and the fact she wasn't bad on the eyes was a bonus. But mainly cuz he had a soft spot for cats and felis were always so adorable. They made good objects of admiration when bored; as they were very animated with their facial reactions. None the less the male would nod in agreement, "sure, why not. The lucky cat on my boat, hell yeah." he'd say teasing as he rowed the boat outwards. Teasing with the boat rocking and arching a brow at her comment, teasing back, "You agreeing that I'm fat." he said patting at his none-existant buddha belly. Sighing he'd casting his line into the water; having acquired his first fish, a Large one he'd cheer. "Hell yeah, already a turn for the best." he'd say before all at once begin seeing it was temporary. It was then, hit after hit. Small, small, small and lastly a decent medium sized fish."Well, this wasn't much different. Maybe we just used up all our luck with the fish in the lake. Either way, this is going to be one hell of a run, his lips would soon part to ask about her past experience with fishing in the real world sharing a bit into his child hood. As he seemed sad and distant now, he'd almost hadn't noticed his tone or facial expression. So when she bumped him in a friendly manner he'd chuckle, "Sorry, sometimes things just get on my mind and I dwell or get lost in my thoughts. I mean who doesn't remember their childhood. Some have better than others but to each their own. I wouldn't change them for better ones though. They made me who I am, literally. All that anger, hurt aggression. I turned it to work out, made me a killer athlete and gave me opportunities and such as I went along. I mean how often do folks get to play a sport they love. Get paid to do so, go to college more or less free and then apply all of those gifts to opening their own business. Again get paid for doing what they love and keeping fit. I mean, I give back to the community I'm a part of, training kids and doing all sorts of good for the youth. But overall I'd never give any of it up, they say god works in mysterious ways, I guess. Not really all that religious outside of the game though. Ironic huh, although it's easier to believe in a God who does things for you, or you can at least see the results from." he'd make light of the abilities he had; such as Illumancy being blessing, "None the less, thank you for trying to cheer me up @Rye Emerson, I appreciate it." he'd say once more getting a nibble and setting his hook. Reeling in the fish he'd pull them in one after another filling the bucket. "Hey, Rye...do you think this was a good idea, I feel like sometimes I try to create fun bonding exercises but not everyone seems as involved or committed to the guild. I feel like as the leader it's my job to draw interested and if I fail them in that aspect, well then it isn't so much their fault as it is mine for lacking the ability to provide a fun work environment. Although with each bit of coin we've earned we are that much closer to making the goal. So I've recently decided to look into gearing up. To do so it would cost me roughly 1, 700 gold. I have it but I'm also trying to help the guild get to rank three but that will take another 1,000 gold. On top of successfully completing a mission on hard difficulty. So do you think we might be able to do such a thing or am I aiming too high in a short amount of time? The goal has and always will be to do such things before the first world boss. But getting us geared having the funds to do such things can be so nerve wracking." he'd admit briefly. Before reeling in the next fish or two, "You know, I enjoy talking out my thoughts and such, you're a good listener. Well, you have no real choice unless you want to swim back to the shore." he teased waving his hand, "I kid, all shut up now, but before I do, what do you think I could do to help improve the guild. I plan to ask all attending members for their opinions on what they think needs impproving. Thrown dice: 3 74 6 90 55 [95 Points: 10 Small | 12 Medium | 12 Large | 1 XL]
When she got on the boat, she merely smiled at his 'lucky cat' words. As they simply sat there with their fishing poles in the water, Rye eyed him out of the corner of her eye as he began to talk about his childhood. A sad smile tilted at the corner of her lips as he spoke about how his parents made him who he was. However, as he rambled on about how he loved helping people with his business. Then it was like a shadow cast on her face as she reeled in her first fish on the boat: a small fish. "I love that you're such a good person, Steele." she murmured softly, tapping her fingers against her thigh and gaining a distant look to her usually sparkling green eyes. Now, they looked as dark as the lake beneath their feet. Dark, nearly fathomless, yet so wistful and sad at the same time. "From what I've gathered, you've had a sucky childhood. However, you were able to go to college for free with your skills." She closed her eyes tightly, sucking on her bottom lip heavily and absently reeling in another large fish. "Not all people were as lucky as you with that. I'm living off the royalties I have as a writer, and that isn't much because not a lot of people want to buy my books. That's not the point though. What I really want to be is a surgeon. I want to go to medical school, so I can help people the way I want to help them." Rye turned to face Steele, her eyes full of both worry and pain. "When I was little.. my parents weren't the... best of parents." She closed her eyes tightly and sucked in a breath. "Most of the time it was neglect. Other times.." Rye blanched at the memories and flattened her ears, tail curling around her waist protectively. "Let's just put it at this: they never wanted me. I was kicked out when I was sixteen, forced to live off of the streets and a part-time job someone gave to me out of pity. When I collected enough monies, I purchased an apartment and continued to write my stories. For the first time, I could do what I wanted. My VR was a gift from my employer, so be very very glad that you get to do what you love for a living." The felis violently reeled in another large fish, determined not to feel any more pity for herself than she already had. I'm never going to be able to go to university, or medical school. I should just... I don't know. I'm also never going to be able to hold a full time job. I- I'm so glad that Terrasphere came into my life. It's like rediscovering myself all over again. Turning to Steele, she firmly steeled herself (oh how punny of her) and took a deep breath. "Steele, don't ever doubt yourself. I feel like you made a good decision creating the guild. Initially, I was against joining and I even thought about rebelling a few times. However, you've shown how good you are. I know the world boss is coming up, but I want you to relax a little bit. Yes, we're going to grind like mad to get ourselves geared up and our Masteries leveled out, but have fun while doing it." Emerald eyes suddenly sparkled with a fond light. "You're doing a fantastic job of making things fun to do, Aaron Steele. Just have more faith in yourself." If only she could tell herself those exact same words, and know that she would be okay. She knew she was... damaged from her childhood. Smaller than usual, shying away from socialization... she knew the intense loneliness would damage her as well, because she only had her co-workers to fall back on. And they weren't always there for her. However, Rye was glad that her new friends in Terrasphere would be here to talk to, even if it was about inconsequential things. The young felis woman let out a shuddering sigh and reeled in another line with tightly closed eyes again. By the time she opened, she was stunned and slightly amused to see two medium fish dangling heavily from her fishing pole. Shaking her head fondly, Rye couldn't help the tears that started to burn at the corners of her eyes. No! No crying allowed! Furiously wiping at her face, she took a deep shuddering sigh and placed the two fish in a bucket. Thrown dice: 87 75 46 44 50 Tag: @Aaron Steele
As he sat there chatting it up with her he'd remain silent and listening intentively as she spoke. The line he had reeled in was covered with fresh bait, yet he'd real in bait fish. A smaller little fish he'd considered using as live bait was soon tossed into his bucket, as such he'd cast his line back out and nail another bite just moments later. This time it as a smaller fish, yet as he seemed to bring it closer to the surface the light hit it just right and caught the eye of a large mouth bass; a particularly annoying fish for others, good for him. The sucker grabbed the bait fish swallowing it whole along with the line. None the less this was a guaruntee catch; thank Tyl. such great justice. None the less he'd pull up the line and pull it over boad; the amount of fish now bordering a need to return to shore and remove the fish. Regardless of his catch though he'd cheer and look over to her yanking the line out to remove the hook. Sighing he'd cut the line instead of causing the fish pain. His hands now focused on the retying of a proper fisherman knot the male would quickly do one, using the spare gear off to the side before casting out his line this time. A small bait fish as he would call it soon came by and ate his bait, the damn bugger seemed to clean it off. A few more rinse and repeat events of this bullshit and he was fed up. Setting the hok just right on the small fish and dragging it aboard. Lips curled he'd throw it in the bucket. "Fuck that fish.." the male would vent angrily as he seemed to be in a semi joking manner, his next cast out once more laying waste and nailing a large fish, "HELL YEA SEAKING! Talk about eanding a big one, shit is huge." he'd say reeling in the large fish as if to brag some. HIs line cast out once more brought in the final fish as the boat began to take down one more notch."Shit, maybe fifteen more fish and the boy will start taking on water; so lets prepare to leave after another round or two of fishing." he'd say with a smile, his eyes shifting some as he noted the water shimmer some; the light hitting it just right as the sun appeard just right over head; the water althogh deep was fairly clear, "Ooo look at them all. Just swimming around unsuspectingly. To bad it's randomized, but still. There seems to be very large fish near the surface, but way down deep. I wonder how deep this goes..." he'd say as he shifted a brow and began to grin playfully teasing, "I bet there is some super awesome sword at the bottom of this lake. Excaliber or some shit. Maybe a giant sea monster like Nessy waits for us to catch her.." he'd say teasing more Changing up his bait once more he'd toss the line down and let it keep going deeper than normal, until it hit bottom his hopes that something bigger might be dwelling down in the depths of the abyss. Either way truth or not, the male knew that he'd find out one way or another. While he jigged and let it be he'd look to @Rye Emerson and analyze her some, "Rye...what made you want to be a cat, I often ask folks this question. Usually I assume they like cats, feel like a cat or are some mix of crazy cat lady and furry." he said teasing before he rubbed the back of his head, "No disrespect or judgment tho. But it's interesting how folks associate themselves with animals better than humans. I can get it and totally understand. Had their been a wolf race, I'd have gone that probbably." he'd say shifting his gaze up to the sun, "Ever just feel so akin to night like you belonged there. The day time just not being your ally. Like the creatures of the night and the fear that instills most only adds to your adrenaline, you feel more alive and otherwise desire nothing more than to let loose and be yourself?" he'd say as he got another bite trying to set the hook before reeling it in. Hearing her words and as the banter shifted towards her childhood he'd frown, "So why not become a surgeonhere, grab illumancy and heal folks..." he'd say interupting rudely before apologizing and noting her reaction and pause. A hand reaching out he'd scratch at her ears, hoping to make her smile unsure if that was a thing for cat people; an intimate yet caring motion made to try to comfort her."We don't need to talk about it if it's too painful. I know the feeling, some scars run deep." his smile passing on as he listened to her talk more he'd arch a brow, "Where do you live, are you any good at writing. I have a buddy in the newspaper business here in Boston. I know it pays decent and I got a few spare rooms at my building open. I could even use a writer for a piece or two about the gym. Maybe a weekly interview for some of my Hall of famers, just to show the community whats up and the schools know we care. I think if you'd like we could work somethign like this out." he'd say stopping his ear rubs to try and make her smile. As the conversaton shifted towards that of the guild and himself he'd laugh some leaning over to kiss her forehead, "Thanks Rye...I needed that. Sometimes when your hard on yourself, you lose sight of your own good deeds; and find it hard to hav faith in yourself. Ironic for a man who puts his faith in others so easily." He'd say as he noted her tears, a hand reaching over to wipe them. "Hey no crying or I'll cry." he'd say smiling warmly his own eyes watering some, "Don't do this to me Rye...not cool." he'd say sniffling hopig his goofy teasing might make her smile. Thrown dice: 50 84 69 55 80 [105 Points: 12 Small | 13 Medium | 14 Large | 1 XL]
Through her observations of @Aaron Steele, she noticed how he'd make the little jokes. Like getting faux angry at a fish for making him cut his lines... Rye would have to bite the insides of her cheeks from struggling to refrain the urge to smile fondly, if not a little sadly at him. At mentioning Excalibur and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster, the felis couldn't help but laugh a little at his silliness. He was such a jokester. Eventually though, Rye merely sighed and continued throwing her line out into the lake. Maybe she should be a little more gentle with the hooks instead of ripping it out like a savage. "What made me decide to be a cat?" Rye tilted her head thoughtfully and her tail lashed behind her quietly. "It's true those kind of people would probably be the felis race. I guess... it's someone I'm not in the real world. I like cats a little, but not so much that I would be a felis right off the bat. I've certainly wondered what it's like to have ears and a tail in the real world, but I would prefer having the wings of a bird. Being someone I'm not could be a bad thing, but it's so interesting seeing Terrasphere through the eyes of one of the creature races. I have actually sat back and pondered on this kind of thing, admiring how the creatures of the night could be just themselves, because it would be just them and nothing else." Then she hesitated. "I actually considered one of the fae races, but I turned them down for the additional features." She gestured at her facial markings, ears, and tails before turning around to face him and gently take out the hook from a largemouth bass. "This is what I look like in the real world aside from the markings, ears, and tail. I didn't really change my appearance aside from that." While she ranted on how her life sucked and how he should treasure his, Rye would absently note the fact that he was a good listener. A very good listener. Something that only drew the young man closer to her own heart. It was a god damn shame that his heart was already stolen by another woman, because otherwise Rye would go after him herself. If not very subtly at that. Once he spoke about Illumancy, Rye clamped her jaw shut and closed her eyes. "I... don't know. Something drew me to beast-taming, something drew me to roguery and ranged weapons." the young felis woman looked suddenly vulnerable, but that faded once Aaron rubbed at her ears. Slightly shocked, she leaned unconsciously into the touch, unaware of the brief purr that started up in her throat. "I live in Maine, up by the coast of the Atlantic Ocean." she murmured quietly. "Portland, Maine. Not far from Massachusetts. And I've written a few books, yes. Not sure if you know the name Raven d'Lias. I have a few collections of short horror stories, and a couple of novels." Throughout their conversation, she would absently reel in a few more fish: large, medium, medium, and medium. As he pressed a brotherly kiss against her forehead, Rye found herself smiling fondly up at him. "You're a good man, Aaron. Never doubt yourself, you hear?" she murmured softly. As he wiped his thumb underneath her eyes, Rye smiled up at him slightly wobbily and gave a light laugh at his words. "It's a real shame you have your heart set on someone else. However, I find myself enjoying the thought of close friends, if not as close as siblings." She never really knew the art of having younger or older siblings, as there weren't any kids before or after her. As she glanced over the amount of fish they caught, she let a smile of bemusement cross her face. "I might take you up on that offer someday," a bitter look flashed across her face. "It's only a matter of time before I'm fired from my job for the wrong reason." Then her expression lightened as she looked over the fish. "Maybe it's about time we take the fish back?" Thrown dice: 99 67 18 3 100 (total amount of points accumulated: 110) (total amount of fish accumulated): 30 small: 9 medium: 9 large: 10 XL: 2
As the duo fished happily and he made small talk she seemed content if not a bit more relaxed by his actions. Hearing her speak on the matter some and laugh at his silliness he'd grin wide. Lips parting he'd shift attention to the female as she finished answering his question, "Oh is that so" he'd ask as he reeled in a fish; a fair medium sized fish. Listening to her talk he'd laugh, I couldn't deal with the Fae too tiny, I already feel smaller in game than the real world." he said as he pointed to himself, "You are looking at who I am in the real world, no changes, well I'm slightly smaller in game. It can't handle the guns" he'd say laughing a good hardy laugh, "Jokes aside I'm serious about that. Although I like to think I'm a bit cuter too. the nose on these avatars doesn't do justice." he'd say joking some more before poking her forehead, "Hey if that's true than your pretty cute outside of game too, must be a real heart breaker." he'd say winking flirting some playfully as they brought in another fish. The boat reaching near capacity he'd stop and once more reel in his line and begin to row. As he did he'd slowly but surely arrive at the shore and once more collect the fish for them and turn them in, coming back he'd smile at her and put the empty buckets in once more before rowing back once more. Arriving a bit closer to land to save some time, he'd smile, "Let's try this spot. Feel free to see how crazy your luck is again." He'd say as he too tested his luck, reeling in one after another, his points racking up slowly. He'd shift his gaze to her as he saw her latest catch; once more the boat thumping down, "Well fuck...Look at that monster." he'd tease poking at the XL fish she caught, "That's what two in under a few hours. You are indeed a lucky kitten." he said with a smile as he cast his line out once more leaning back some relaxing Once more discussing as she spoke of Maine and where she lived he'd nod. "Been there once, also been to the York zoo, really nice place. But I'm surprised you've yet to mention how yall have the best lobster in the world," he said chuckling as he poked fun at their state mascot. None the less he'd nod and continue through with his actions kissing her forehead in a brotherly manner, hearing her words he'd blush, "Thanks, I try to be a better man tomorrow than I am today." he'd say trying to be somewhat witty. Yet her next few words made him blush a lot, "Well, erm...I'm flattered and honestly quite honored at your words. I'd be lying if I wouldn't be interested in seeing how far the dating system works here. But to be honest, the relationship I and Sera has is one of an unusual standard. I'll introduce you to her and if she likes you...well." He'd pause blushing more,"We will just see how the meeting goes." he'd say with a smile as he pat her knee, "besides, I think sera might get jealous if I brought home a kitten without her okay, then again I'm sure she'd love to cuddle with you in bed just as much...I wonder how the Source coding works for your kind. Do you have litters like real cats." he'd tease trying to make her blush some if not poke fun at her being a cat. His hands firmly upon the pole would real in another fish, "But whether you join my family with sera or remain one of the guilds siblings you'll always have a place with us. We take care of family, don't ever forget about that." As the two talked a bit more he'd look to her, "Again, I know you nailed a fat one but I think we can stay out a bit longer. I'm about to reel another one in anyhow." he'd say laughing. His eyes shifting towards the sky some, "I don't remember have I introduced any of you all to Sera?" he'd ask curiously before placing his rod between his legs and smiling, "I always carry a photo of her, it reminds me when I'm feeling down, why I try my hardest. I made a promise to her that I'd be her light, just as I made a promise to the guild So long as I'm alive and well, you will all have a home, a place to rest your head and a family who will love you. Real or not, this world is what we make it and I choose to make it one worth being in. Part of the reason I became a paladin. It's far better to help create a world of happiness than one of misery." he'd say confidently as he felt a hard bite, "Ooo, looks like we have a live one." he'd say fighting with the fish, the adrenaline kicking in after a while of nothing going on but banter. Thrown dice: 8 40 14 7 43 [118 Points: 12 Small | 15 Medium | 17 Large | 1 XL]
Akino moved about his work, deciding to fall silent for a time. He'd work his jaw raw, talking over the ideals and dreams of brighter futures. High morals and all that were always a great topic, but sometimes a fellow just wanted to listen. Often enough, people were reserved in their thoughts. So, when Gwyn began expressing how she felt, he was eager to devour the words and absorb them into his heart, to better understand his guild mate. Why was it that she preferred the simple things, and wished to avoid praise? The young man could understand avoiding getting a full head, but the blonde was so grounded that he doubted any soul could flatter her; the tongue of an angel likely couldn't wrap her heart up. She seemed someone who delighted in the baser, carnal pleasure of life. Sweat, hard work, climbing and running. If so, he could relate with this sentiment, but it still stirred wonder. When she confirmed his thoughts a moment later by proclaiming how dearly she desired to climb, he felt a pang of curiosity. The idea of what they were doing being defined as heroic was an odd one, he'd give her that. But it was, in its own way, an act of kindness. None-the-less, it was mainly driven by Steele's desire to earn gold and build up the guild reputation. There was no reason for them to do this otherwise. The villagers easily could do the work, and earn their own gold and food. This was just beneficial to them. So, calling it heroic would be wrong. Mutually beneficial, mayhaps, but not heroic. Sighing heavily at the end of her words, he'd wipe sweat from his brow, catching the beads that threatened his vision. Seeing clearly now, he decided to take a moment and consider further, elbow resting on his pick. Had Akino's mind not turned pensive, he'd have voiced rather passionately how deep every action was. There was nothing in the world that did not have a layer underneath. Not in this world, nor the last. They were bodies of mass, floating along at billions of miles per an hour. The Earth was given life by a massive ball of nuclear fission that could swallow the planet whole a couple times over. It gently dosed all the life on their rock with low-level radiation, responsible for all the mutations that drove evolution onward and likely created our species. The same nuclear process could happen at any time, if our bodies ever became solid. See, molecules never truly touch. They are in a constant state of war within and around us, propelled away from one another by invisible, electromagnetic barriers. None of this, not a single drop of water nor the stone they stood upon, was actually solid. It was all an illusion, believed to be solid because our own invisible force fields felt pressure when it came in contact with other force fields. They never actually "saw" a thing in the world. It was all reflections of light, and our brain's explanation of said reflections. The whole world was a fun house, a life of mirrors every time they woke. No thing comes about from nothing. Something had created them, and something had created that something. That something was the force of life called God, to him. To her, who knew? The young man did know, that something had occurred in Gwyn's life, her other life. It had shaped her outlook on reality, and her outlook on life, and her approach to this game. Something inspired both the passion and frustration that mingled in her tone. So, on another day, he'd have to argue the point with her. Not today though. Crackin' his neck with an audible pop, and scooping up his score with two hands, he'd deposit in his cart and then take a seat by the high rock the food was resting on. The felis would begin to rummage through, grab a slab of meat, slap it between two pieces of cheese, and consume it in two whole bite. An impressive feat, to the young man's stomach at least. Chewing it over, he'd eye what he'd gathered, then he'd eye the blonde. She was fascinating, and a good person. Good in the manner of having no real ambitions other than doing what it was she wished to. Good in the manner of having simple love for activity in her heart. Opening a bottle of sun-brewed tea, he'd take a swig from it as his gold orbs gleamed her way in the dark. A smile settled on his features as he placed it on the ground, and finally spoke up. It had been some minutes of silence. "Nothing is impossible, Gwyn. No matter the setback, you're going to come back at it with a fire stronger than ever. You appreciate your climb more because of what you have gone through, and you will be wiser for it. You are wiser for it. Simple truths, for simple pleasures. What does not kill us makes us stronger. And you are stronger now, than before your setback. Deny it, if you want, but it will remain true." He'd take another swig from his drink then, letting a few more moments sink the friendly words in, before he'd offer his only disagreement to her beliefs. "Everyone is different though, right down to where they find peace. Some find peace in the struggle, others find it in not living for the next precipice, but the one they stand on. It's all beautiful, all the same." Rolling his shoulders, an indifferent smile on his lips as he closes his eyes and soaks the moment of his own peace in. "You want a sandwich? I can make one for ya, if you'd like to keep working." He offered, without opening his eyes. @Gwyn ap Herne [Coal: 2] [Ore: 1] [Gold: 7] [Emerald: 4] [Diamond: 1] Points: 92! Thrown dice: 33 52 62 94 53
"Aslan, that's enough snacks for now." the charcoal haired girl chastised the male lion cub. Eyeing him with her gaze she quickly lifted the bowl of raw steak high above her head as he climbed up onto her lap, his claws digging into her thigh. Letting out a protesting yap he intently stared at the metallic bowl, attempting to bat at it with a lazy swipe. Yapping once more in annoyance at his failure. Granted he could have easily reached the bowl if he really tried. "Look at you!, you're too fat to even try!." She laughed at the poor feline. "Elly, stop teasing your pet and put him to bed." A voice chastised the girl in a ironic sense of karma from another room. The Doctor who had been training her to be an animal expert. "Aww but, we're not ready to leave each other yet!" She pouted. Giving a glance to the room where the man resided she sighed and looked down to her friend. "I guess..." Leaning down she plucked a small kiss on the cub's forehead, then rubbed her cheek against his. Feeling the rumble of his loud purring she giggled before tapping him on the nose. "Go on!, you heard him. It's bed time! " Without any hesitation Aslan pounced off of Elyssa's lap, rushing out of the room to find his cage. "Alright!, done!." She called out to her teacher. "I'm going to go home now then!." She added on, dropping the bowl to the side table. Slinging a half torn back pack she made her way to the exit. "Wait?, I have a message?" Walking through the outskirts of the Adecus forest she opened her mailbox. "Oh, it's Aaron again." Deciding it best not to skip parts of her guild leaders message this time she examined the words. A contest?, seemed simple enough. A hunting one to be exact. Well...fishing. But she was experienced in both. Hopefully she would be good with a fishing pole. Since she had only killed fish with a well guided spear. "Wait...A HUNDRED GOLD FINE!?" roaring the words, a poor snoozing Loki startled awake from his nap. Rolling violently to his feet he rushed to his master's side, hair standing on end. Fangs bared. "I can't believe this..." Realizing that if she waited anymore time she would have to pay mentioned fee. Kicking off of the ground with as much force as possible she bolted through the forest. At least she wasn't too far away. Spotting the water where her guild resided Lai'ordi broke through the treeline. "GUYS I'M HERE! DON'T TAKE MY MONEY!" she roared, her major concern being on the extreme lack of gold she possessed. The girl already had to deal with Mortemer siphoning her skills for food, she didn't need her guild mates taking her income. Gasping for breath she collapsed to the ground, laying on the shore line with her back to the ground. "Work...IRL..late...yadi yada.." She mumbled on until energy bar regenerated some. Sniffing the air Loki walked over his master, a smell taunting his senses. Analyzing the players before him his eyes eventually setting on the crystal blue water. The source. "Loki wait for me!." The huntress called out to her beast. Standing from the ground she slowly walked over to the assortment of fishing equipment. "I guess I just take it and go..." Picking up a suitable fishing pole and bucket; Lai'ordi ventured the shoreline. Rather than going by boat. "Mr. Steele!, I'm going for the fishing contest!, Sorry I'm late!." She called out to her leader. @Aaron Steele "Hah!" Casting out the line of the fishing pole Lai'ordi watched her string intently. All she had to do was wait for the fish to take her bait. Hopping out on a couple rocks in the water Loki licked his lips as he gazed hungrily into the water. it seemed the Lion cub either wanted to aid his master or his stomach. either way it might assist her in getting points. Looking to the water as vibrations coursed through her pole Lai'ordi smirked, this was going to be fun... Thrown dice: 53 48 88 9 42 1 Small 3 Medium 1 Large 0 Extra Large Total: 10
