RP Between Degu, Rigby, Yam and Rook
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Rook — 08/09/2020
A hunt through the woods wasn't so strange for Quinne, but it'd been the first time he had taken the young reptilian children along with him. Small prey had been where he started with them, showing them how to properly track and be mindful of things that might try to stalk them too. There'd be nothing actually brought back, outside some of the wild fruit, but the boys hadn't quite gotten used to a bow yet. He had taken Trapper along, but had first left him near the forest's edge with Wight, and on the way back, the trio of children rode on his back.
Quinne held his reins with one hand to lead him and his bow in the other, starting the trek back to town with a lazy pace. Wight wandered behind them, perhaps not as content with the lack of food brought back (even if he did enjoy fruit), but the vampire figured he could deal with that later. Perhaps a proper boar hunt once the boys were asleep.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
It was the faceless flower-creature that had ensured the observer kept out of sight for the time being, yet the group as a whole had piqued its curiosity.
It hadn't been much at first; it followed at a distance, knowing enough of the hunt to keep out of the way, but savvy enough to use the undergrowth to get closer for a good look.
But it got greedy and it got closer as the entourage started to move again - and it got sloppy, not caring quite so much if it disrupted leaves and branches in its haste to keep up!
Rook — 08/09/2020
Quinne had overlooked the little stalker at first, but Wight and Trapper did not. Where Trapper was gone on trotting forward a little faster, the cryptid did the opposite and went over to where the noises came from. The vampire took a moment to calm the horse down, giving the reins to Marlo. "Don't go anywhere."
He wouldn't stray far from the boys and the horse, intent on putting himself between what was following them and that little group.
"Come out now." Quinne commanded, holding his bow up, but he didn't bother getting an arrow ready just yet.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
The sounds stopped immediately - whatever it was appeared to have realized its sloppiness a moment too late. There was a long stretch of absolute silence; nothing to indicate it had left, but nothing coming forth either. It was weighing its options. On occasion, there was the sound of something swallowing and bursts of short, wet pants.
And finally, slowly, out slunk something large, wolfish, horned and russet-red. Long tail and neck carried low, ears lowered, contrite. It would've been a proud looking beast had it not been covered in dust and burrs; body language intent on presenting something non-threatening, but it didn't extend to the thing's eyes, which were sharp and alert and flicking from creature to child to Quinne, constantly.
Rook — 08/09/2020
When something other than what he was expecting came wandering out, Quinne lowered the bow only to eventually slip it around his torso. Wight moved away as well and back over to the horse, though the vampire didn't move from his spot quite yet. "Can you speak?" He'd inquire, hoping the intelligence was more sapient than most and he'd take a look over its dirty body.
When it glanced to the children, he tensed the muscles of his forehead. "Nevermind them." One wrong look or move, however, was something he was sort of waiting for.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
An ear flicked up, and she raised her head slowly. Tail thrashed once nervously, involuntarily and catlike.
She'd shake her head, once - it was only slightly uncanny on such a weird animal frame, but enough to hint towards understanding.
She was well fed, usually well cared for - and utterly inept at being this far out of the city. Buried in that ginger mane was a plush, emerald green collar, also showing recent signs of scuffing, and she'd overall smelled faintly skunky. Sorry, kids.
Her eyes locked back on Quinne again at that command. She tilted her head quizzically, lowered her head, took one demonstrative step forward - along with them - and then raised it again, with a second head-tilt.
Rook — 08/09/2020
Once that scent hit him though, Quinne grimaced and decided to speak as little as possible. If he didn't have to breathe in, he could atleast avoid inhaling that smell, right? It had a collar, which meant someone else would be having the fun of bathing the creature.
It moved forward, and to lessen any chance of looking threatening, the vampire kneeled down before holding out a hand. Well, couldn't speak, but that didn't mean much. If he could see the collar, though, he figured he could find the owner.
Despite probably expected to stay, the trio of reptiles climbed down to get a closer look at the creature. Of course, without anyone keeping him steady, Trapper cantered off immediately to where home and safety waited.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
Quinne kneeling was cue for the tyger to move up a little quicker; she crept forward, tail erratically thrashing, and snuffled Quinne's hand (carefully - for how wolfish most of the creature seemed, her snout ended in a sharp little beak)!
There seemed evident wariness yet - undead wasn't a familiar or entirely trusted scent - but the man was not acting threatening, and the tyger figured that all groups like this would head back to civilization eventually! She'd rest the point of her beak on his hand for a while, slowly angling her head, once more.
The reptiles were tolerated with less hesitation in comparison, the uncertain thrashing of that tail easing into proper, ropy wags when they'd approached, and she'd offered some rumbling hums for each, shoving that long snout too-close into each of their faces (stench and all!) for some more boisterous snuffling!
Her ears would perk sharply at every distant shout - a man's voice, a couple women's voices. All over. Could've been birds. Could've been tricky fae. Hers?
Rook — 08/09/2020
"What a strange creature you are." Quinne said, idly wondering if she was one of the local fauna claimed as a pet, but she was certainly the first he'd seen like her so far. Since their adoptive father had gotten to pet her without a bite or a mauling, they decided this was a clear invitation.
Plus, she was wagging her tail.
"Wait-." It came too late, and the trio reached out to tentatively pet the smelly creature too. Wyn sneezed, and they all started chattering about the smell with no shortages of 'Ewwww's' giggled out. Obvious baths were in their future.
At the shouts, though, Quinne would look up and straighten again. He waited, just to try to make it if it was a couple people or birds mimicking sounds they've heard before.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
The tyger nodded once! But the swarm of children quickly became her main focus, and she'd bump and nuzzle against each - though headbutts were ginger - she knew right where those horns began and ended, and experience told her exactly how to measure where and how she'd bonk against her kids. They'd definitely have a story to bring back with that smell! (Perhaps to the jealousy of a certain pair of twins!)
Quinne on his diligent duty would've definitely made out some of the voices. They certainly would sound human (though here, one couldn't be too careful!) and some unwieldy tromping through underbrush to exeptionally sensitive ears would've definitely sounded
"ROSA" was a bit more distinct from one of the feminine voices, that time! And with that, it'd throw the rest into relief - there had been a LOT of "ROSA"s coming out of the women, and likely the man, too.
It would've been the man, at least... were he still shouting.
Because now, he didn't need to.
"...sir?"
Behind Quinne, standing there as silently as if he'd simply materialized right there on the spot.
It was a man, tall in the unwieldy way that indicated he'd gotten there in a rather short amount of time, hardly more than twenty, with black hair and an odd stare. He didn't look like the sort to sneak up on someone; indeed, he seemed outright uncomfortable (and likely wishing for his compatriots) - pale, peaked, a free hand clenching and unclenching; weaponless, there was nothing to grasp. The light was a little too bright, sounds and smells a little too vibrant, the shadows more comfort. But there was something trained about his bearing, nevertheless, hammered and forced into the shape of reflexive propriety, outdoor hunting-wear an ensemble of impeccable black and silver, emblazoned with a bird of green and flaming red, and pale shape not unlike the animal happily rolling around for the kids.
"...I don't want to interrupt, but...you may have something of mine."
Rook — 08/09/2020
The kids were happy to return the gentle headbutts and they continued petting sweet Rosa, much to Quinne's concern. Not because of the chance she'd get tired of it (she seemed to love the attention!), but due to the constant smell.
He pulled his own hand away when the calls for a 'Rosa' continued, but the sudden voice behind him caught him by surprise and he turned to face the young man, bewildered. He immediately stood, attempting to hide his surprise. Quinne stared back, noting the actions of his hands and that heightened feel about him. The light concerned him, even if the smell should have as well.
"Good evening. Sorry about that, she wandered over and the kids got a little curious." Wyn made his way over to Quinne, peeking around his legs at this stranger. "We've no intentions of keeping her."
Rigby — 08/09/2020
"That sounds about right. ROSA."
And the tyger sat STRAIGHT up with a whirr of a hum (though careful not to bowl over any children even then!) that bubbled over into a bright and relieved 'YIP,' one answered by the kid crouching over to hug that stinky mane after yelping and scolding her and frenetically scratch behind each long ear.
If there was some way to encapsulate antsy and too-controlled into one's bearing, this kid seemed to have managed it. Something vaguely noble or militaristic won out, called upon in fits and spurts, and he stood up straight. Though oddities still would surface; Wyn moving earned a slightly-alien movement of the young man's head, favoring one eye with that unblinking stare when regarding the little naga.
But he could still manage propriety. Or at least attempt it. He didn't extend either gloved hand (and seemed almost too-keen on picking out the burrs instead!) but he did nod. "Good evening. She...gets out. A lot." Almost by way of explanation. "I don't blame her. Didn't blame her. Can probably blame her for the smell though."
Regarding Wyn, after a beat and a little smile. "Hello. I've only ever heard of his sort, before."
Rook — 08/09/2020
The little beardie twins moved away when the tyger sat up and they joined Wyn, but didn't seem too concerned about this stranger as the naga was. "I'm glad she only came out with a smell, seems like a good companion." Quinne commented, reaching down to pick up Wyn when there seemed to be an odd stare towards his way.
It was a protective gesture, to be sure, but not one too aggressive.
Wight stepped out of the brush then, but upon a whispered word from his Master, the cryptid walked off in the same direction Trapper did. "Not many places around here with his race, I imagine. He comes from a more wild island." Atleast where the tribes were concerned. The Tether could be considered, arguably, a bit more refined. "I don't think I've seen you around before, my name is Quinne and you are..?" No hand had been offered at first, so the vampire didn't do the same yet.
Rigby — 08/10/2020
There was visible strange tension when the man spotted Wight, but it was so brief and so odd it could've only been startlement. Right?
But it did appear that this man could be distracted with and intrigued by foreign facts, even as his words were still somewhat stilted, and as he was picking at some of the burrs that had lodged themselves in his gloves and taken a considerable amount of Rosa fluff with. "I've heard of those islands. Read all about them, never been." It was a bit rueful. "But I wouldn't, I suppose."
There was something about the little rich boy inherent in the way he stood up straight, then. He rolled his shoulders and attempted to put on an air of vanity befitting his station.
"Marcello di Aiolfi, of the human courts. Of the Aiolfo of the Faewatch." The name was accompanied by a gesture to the silvery creature on his clothes; the green and red bird went without comment for now.
"And this silly creature is Rosa. My sister and my...our friend are...around, somewhere."(edited)
Rook — 08/10/2020
"Not really worth a lot of visits, if you ask me." Quinne said, despite his own. But, the boy infront of him was young and the vampire doubted any visits there would be fruitful or positive. "Visit nicer places, there are quite a few." He had noted the reaction to Wight, but didn't offer it any acknowledgement.
When Marc straightened his posture and mentioned who he was, Quinne would incline his head. "It is nice to meet you, Marcello. Do you often have a 'Lord' tacked infront of your name, or do you use another title?" Perhaps Lord was better suited for his father or an older brother.
"Rosa, a very nice name for her."
It was then Cienna came wandering out of the woodlands, holding up her silks and she glanced to the stranger with his very scaly children. "Oh! Hello!" She said, stopping by her friend's side. "I see you found her."
yam — 08/10/2020
Of all the times to be wandering around, and of course of all the times to be wandering into another group of newly-met people-folk, Iris had managed (though it was signature of him surely) to wander into these people-folk just as they were introducing themselves. Dressed in Pantone Veronica brocade accented in delicate, glinting gold floral embroidery and his dear ombre cloak, he both blended in and stuck out like a sore thumb.
What little visible skin there was near-glowed white in contrast, golden eyes ever lazy, lips ever smirled. With him, a reed basket over a forearm. Within, the following: a neatly folded, unfolded and then refolded note, a thin golden chain at least ten feet long and tied together with a red silk ribbon, several flowers and seed pods and what looked to be a half-eaten apple. How nice.
Iris did not introduce himself. He simply (slowly, but casually) wandered over, stood in quiet a moment, then (when the time felt right and no others were speaking) said, "'Tis a nice night for a stroll, is it not? Most pleasant indeed."
Degu — 08/10/2020
Speaking of faewatch, how about one of faewatch's most wanted riding atop a branch-antlered elemental lion? The fauna crunched quickly as something hefty moved towards them with haste but not at a run. Strange orange glowing could be seen between the trees and pinprick glowing green eyes from the beast. "Master Quinne!? It's Ganu" he called out as he drew nearer so that the clansman wasn't inclined to raise a weapon. Always identify yourself upon approach in areas of bad visibility, good practice, especially as a troll.
He finally reached them, pushing through the trees, looking alarmed for whatever reason. The sight of Wyn had him feeling an even stronger pang of protective urge but he quelled it. He sat there atop his gigantic, saddled lion and looked down at Marcello. He'd missed the introduction, he had no idea who this stranger was... but then Iris.
Wait. Iris?!
His eyes widened in surprise, a grin of delight burst forth "Iris!? friend, what are you doing here!?" he said but then that grin faded as he realised too quickly the implications. Marcello was eyed again, as were the trees.
If he were not held at weapons point he'd seek to dismount his lion, still standing at 8ft 1 inches even then. "Is everything alright, Master Quinne?" he had many questions but as clan leader that had to be his most important "Argus smelled ...a lot of strange things on our way home" a grimace given and he was trying to discern who smelled the most of dead-skunk and his eyes landed upon Rosa, a small smile soon followed. Curious creature.
Rigby — 08/10/2020
"Still...it's the worlds outside of the gates. Crossing them's usually for dignitaries and tradesmen... the benefits of being a legend. Not for...soon-to-be-captain-generals or heir apparent. Or...Lords." That title left his lips with apparent discomfort, a title too-large and too quickly foisted upon someone who'd not yet expected it. Perhaps there had been an older brother...
The words had still come stilted, laced with that slight pause often befitting those translating in their head. He didn't fully relax; there was still that odd bearing and the strange and erratic mannerisms leaking into his movements, but Quinne had perhaps accidentally touched on something he could express (and indeed, all three nobles dirtying themselves up at night chasing after their pet!)
But there was one thing that could distract Rosa from Marc's gloved attempts at grooming - and that was Cienna, popping up in this confusing woodland, and she'd made sure to shove past him on the way to get to her! Poor Cienna was now the target of the smelly headbutts and rather purposeful leans as Rosa tried pressing her side against the heiress' legs.
It was also a testament to the awkwardness of the encounter with how quickly Marc oscillated between that stilted, oddly-restrained propriety and a very-honest and undignified "HEY-!" and vain scrambling to grab hold of his pet as the big tyger muscled over, around and past him in order to get to her! (And reaching her before Marc could, to his somewhat awkward and evident dismay!) "Cie, nonono, she reeks, don't do it-!!*
Blessedly, she was likely spared the brunt of it as Iris arrived! This was altogether so much and so new for the tyger that she'd ended up breaking and pacing excitably in circles, snuffling at the kids again, ropy tail flicking, before ending on Iris and ventured poking that beak into his basket. ("Hello...I apologize, Rosa, NO!") [cont]
[8:09 PM]
However any further apologies to this new person were halted as the arrival of a font of magic, veritably bursting from the troll's potential, never mind the animal he rode in on. And Marc locked up a moment before the lion and troll arrived on the scene, a brief anticipation of their arrival. It wasn't like the vampire - the first man had not identified himself, but
He was wearing his own face. He could not.
A "CIENNAAAA, MARRRC-!" was an exasperated female shout, closer now.
He'd found himself slowly and almost stubbornly stiffening and standing up straight once more. something twisting in his core, fixing the newest pair with the hard and appraising stare of something less (or something more) than human
"Not that strange-!" was finally a croak that he'd hoped sounded normal, hoped sounded at all. "You don't have to bathe her!"
Rook — 08/10/2020
"Indeed. Perhaps you won't have to be out here all the time depending on how far she wanders." Quinne said, reaching over to pat Rosa gently on her flank. When Iris made his presence known, the vampire turned his attention to him. "Very much so, but getting late. Are you going into the woods? It is quiet, so you might not be bothered by some of the more curious animals. Outside the birds anyway." Or the tiny reptiles, but neither of those were much of a threat.
In Quinne's arms, Wyn remained relaxed, but wide-eyed at all the people showing up. The sound of something approaching left the vampire a little on edge, but he turned when Ganu spoke up. "Yes, just returned from taking the boys out through the woods and met this young man. His Rosa here met a skunk...and of course, that smell is now covering many little hands." A smirk lingered, as he rested his free hand against the top of Sika's head. Not that he had strayed from petting her.
Cienna had almost reached for Rosa, up until they talked about the smell and she rested a hand against her lips. "Oh no, I'm sure my father would just love that." She offered a gentle smile to Iris, curious about this stranger and their basket of goods. However, the sight of Ganu took her by surprise (as did his mount) and she moved closer to Marc's side. More out of nervousness than anything, but they were now basically surrounded by strangers.
"We are over here!" She called out to the voice from the woods, wanting them both nearby and to have a bit more safety in numbers.
yam — 08/10/2020
"My dear friend Ganu! 'Tis a surprise, but a welcome one!" Iris without any sort of boundaries floated over to the troll and gave one of his big arms a boney little squeeze with one of his own. Backing up, he'd glance at the others, still rather unconcerned, and say without any regard to the potential secrecy of his 'mission', "Looking for something of the Master's, you see... 'tis most important to the poor dear, has him worried terribly. Dragged Luca and I along and everything." Well that answered that question.
Golden eyes flitted about the group- from the scaley little ones, the various faces that seemed to be in company of one another, the great beasts that were friend and not foe- there was a great number of things to process! ...and of course, this being Iris, he processed them differently than he really ought to and despite hearing the warning of stench and smelling it waft on the 'wind', he approached the tyger without an ounce of hesitance and offered the creature his hand palm-up to snuffle at.
"My what a wonderful beastie, she is, yes she is! Rosa? How lovely, how suiting, my my~" okay Iris tone it done. That sing-song nasal voice of his sounded oh-so-familiar with the tyger as if he had known her since her cub days despite only just meeting her. He seemed utterly unbothered by her snuffling his basket.
ADHD be damned and somewhat belatedly, he turned to Quinne, head cocking sideways whilst his braid fell from his shoulder to dangle behind. "I have been in the woods, young man, and have not been bothered once. Not that I would mind it, you see." though he didn't elaborate. "My name is Iris. Hello. Hello." he proceeded to say 'hello' to each person present, even the children and animals. (there)(edited)
Degu — 08/10/2020
Ganu smiled at Marc as he returned Iris' hug one armed. "Not terribly strange, but that companion of yours has likely smelled better" he motioned towards the Tyger with the fond stare of an animal lover but he resisted calling her over "When you bathe her, add some natron salts in with the soap, lest you want her to smell for the next few weeks." he chuckled deeply, though that smile faded at what Iris had said. Just as he'd thought.
"Lord Papaveri is here." he said to Iris but it was for Quinne to hear as well "Is he nearby? ...on a scale of 'cup of tea' to 'public duel to the death' how vengeful would you say he is, friend?" Ganu asked with concern, worried that poor Luca had been brought along.
Argus was sniffing with disgust at Rosa, rumbling and turning his head away to try and escape behind a tree for some distance from the smell.
The troll had missed the introduction, he offered a gigantic, three-fingered hand to Marcello "Ganu. Sorry to if my arrival startled you... my familiar smelled Quinne and strangers, I had to be sure my friend wasn't under attack." he said with a smile, his pupils reflecting in the darkness perhaps unsettlingly, his markings glowing softly.
His eyes lifted to the trees "It seems you are missed." he said in regards to the voices calling for them in the distance.
Rigby — 08/11/2020
"See, now we just have to figure out how to get her home without meeting mine!" These fathers clearly had something of a reputation.
Cienna moved closer, and with a slight, reflexive slink, Marc stepped into a better position between her and that magic. He didn't appear to have any weapons, but that didn't seem to matter.
Rosa seemed a bit annoyed that her Marc was getting ahead of her and warning people away from the pets. She didn't smell THAT bad, really! An exasperated whuff and Iris was deemed the new favorite for the next several seconds or so - at least until Argus tried to slip away. She had to follow it, naturally!
People were talking but the words slipped right on by - at least until Ganu offered his hand.
A spike of something intangible and strange. He almost seemed to reach, to want to reach, gloved fingers flicked, hand clasped and flexed; he instead opted for a dip of his head in greeting, instead, and ending with a soft "Your friend is fine." A beat. "Plesaure, Ganu."
A sudden spike of misplaced fear, a discreet grasp at Cie's hand and -
"A what, a lord's around? Causing trouble?!" And the third human of the night came stomping through the forest; a woman roughly the same age, dirtied finery emblazoned with the same green, silver tyger and fiery bird, but already considerably more animated. She'd entered the scene, frowning and taking in far more people than she'd been expecting when she'd first set out to wrangle that tyger. "...oh." And then a sniff. "...OH. Marc, you're taking her." Decision made, spare the girls.
Without much prompting at all, she ended up the one to offer her hand or clasp Ganu's, should it still have been offered. "Lady Enrica."
Rook — 08/11/2020
"My name is Quinne." The vampire replied, after the words 'young man' slipped from Iris' lips and he tensed up his posture. Papaveri's presence didn't surprise him, but it did concern him. It'd only be a matter of time until he figured out what happened, but Quinne asked no questions to avoid the risk of a suspicious response from Iris.
He bowed his head to Cienna, who offered a curtsy in response.
Cienna smiled to Iris' greeting, though she raised an eyebrow when Ganu spoke to Marcello and she sounded amused. "You are missed." She repeated, half-closing her eyes a moment as she glanced away. Marc's reach for her hand hadn't gone unnoticed and she placed her petite fingers in his, so long as she didn't distract him from shaking Ganu's.
"As for Rosa and your father, we could try sneaking into the cellar." She whispered conspiratorially to him, looking over to Enrica when she arrived and she would smile again. "Remember what he's suggested too, since you'll be bathing her, Marcello." The full name was usually not one she used, but in public, it seemed a lot more proper.
yam — 08/12/2020
Iris, ever the optimist and unable (unwilling?) to see Adamo as a lethal force to be reckoned with, only laughed. He laughed a jittery, musical little laugh and would raise a hand to limp-wristedly swat at the troll's forearm. "Har! I wonder." that isn't comforting in the slightest, Iris. "I suppose he is in a 'private gentleman's duel to settle things, first to be disarmed wins' state of vengeance. He is not nearly as vexed as you would expect. Perhaps he is simply behaving himself because he is around Luca." Adamo had never hurt Iris, but he had certainly had a temper toward him and in his presence more than once.
In response to the stranger's concern, a hand would wave dismissively. "He is not causing trouble. If he was you would be able to hear him from where you stand now!" While not entirely true, he wasn't entirely being false, either. From those distant eyes ignited a spark of actual presence and Iris let out a little 'ah', a slender, finely manicured finger raising. "Has anybody here seen a unicorn about? Eh- unicornus, yes? A fair hoof-beast with a long tail and a lone horn atop it's proud head. I seek one, you see. T'was lost and is sorely missed."
Whether Iris was intentionally tipping them off to protect the unicorn, avoid it, or collect it was anyone's guess. He may simply be stupid, though we like to think he's not. What was clear above all else though was how in-his-own-head Iris was. He seemed almost detached from the others' conversations. It didn't seem to be a selfish kind of detachment, either. He seemed only just lucid, which was the norm but not everyone knew it.
Degu — 08/12/2020
"Lady Enrica" Ganu repeated and took her hand, though he was now picking up on Marc's tension through the earth he stood on, the rigidity of his muscles were more than telling. The troll, ever trained in etiquette at least at a serviceable level, bent down and carefully pressed a kiss to the back of the Lady's hand before rising and releasing it.
Argus let out a big sad "RAauuuu!" of complaint as Rosa came after him and bounded away, whining and complaining like the big sabretoothed softy he was. He ran in a circle around the group, trying so hard to get away before seemingly disappearing. The saddle fell to the ground and a house-cat sized version of him, looking more like a norwegian forest cat than anything, ran from beneath it and climbed quickly up a tree with a tiny hiss.
Ganu laughed and reached out for the big saddle "Stop being anti-social Argus. Come on down." he put out an arm and the feline leapt down onto his shoulder with a low growl and glowing glare down at poor Rosa.
"Only trouble for me I expect." he finally added to what Marc had said and cast another glance to Quinne. "If he's practically on my doorstep I expect he's after me. Arrange a meeting for us, Iris? leave a letter around here in the woodlands fastened to some sage and I will find it." he knew Argus would, at least.
His concern turned towards the mentioned unicorn "I must return home. It was good to see you again my friend. And you, friends...I hope your companion smells a little better by the morn" he mused, fixing the group of relative strangers with a warm smile. "Quinne." he nodded to his friend and clasped his shoulder before reaching down to give Wyn a gentle hug against his calf "See you soon kiddo." and with that, unless stopped he'd be off on foot, given that his mount had shrunken.
Rigby — 08/14/2020
The clasp for Cienna's hand searched for support, and not a moment too soon as his sister moved in for the talking, instead. Something about it quivered. Not fear, not relief, but something perhaps adjacent to both and reminiscent of his illness she'd seen from before.
But it also seemed to act as anchor; that coupled with the appearance of his twin seemed to ensure enough lucidity to follow the conversation about this rogue noble.
And shoot her a look of pantomime indignance when she agreed that he was the one ultimately cursed with the stink! "Oh, she's not escaping this one either!" ("YOU lost her, Marc!" was a quick little hiss in return!) Followed by a little, far-more-human twinkle in his eyes and a little nod. Rosa was going in through the cellar after this!
But returning to the conversation, and mention of duels and odd cagey unicorn questions, and his following "What did you do?" was silky and curious, the control slightly more natural than before.
Iris assured Richa about Adamo and how one could hear the guy coming. A squint and swivel of her head, a spark of wary amusement in her expression as it too slid back to the troll. "Really! Fancy yourself a duelist, then?"
Rosa yelped at Argus' transformation into his travel-size, but then she rumbled lowly, stopping just short of launching into her full and resonant howl and satisfying for a more rolling hum, rising and dipping in cadences that could've almost sounded conversational. She'd followed him keenly then, perching her forepaws on the tree on which Argus had escaped, and retreating to her haunches once he'd fled to the troll.
Rook — 08/15/2020
"I should get these three to the bath before the smell bugs me further." It was damn near all around him at this point and heightened senses only further threatened to give him a headache from it. He set Wyn down in time for Ganu to hug him and he nodded to the troll, looking to Iris a moment after. "See you later." He offered to the more familiar of the bunch and he'd step as well, followed by the trio of scaly children to their house. Inwardly, he hoped he had something there to rid the kids' hands of the horrible smell.
Cienna would offer Marc a concerned look, resting her other hand atop his now once she noticed the tremble. "Do you want to take Rosa home now? Have some tea in the garden? I'm sure my parents won't mind." But only after the tigre got cleaned up! She watched the troll leave, but said nothing, though she gave his own furry companion a curious look. Given neither showed signs of being a threat, she relaxed a bit more now.
yam — 08/15/2020
"I shall." Was the only response offered to Ganu before Iris glanced this way and that, casually of course. "I suppose I should be on my way then. I must play the messenger." goodie. "T'was nice to 'run into' you all, of course. And to see such lovely creatures." he peered fondly at the tyger and Argus, clearly unbothered by the skunky perfume Rosa wore. Which was seriously bizarre because NO ONE liked skunky smell. "Off I go then. Good evening boys and girls, behave yourselves." he'd offer a curtsy-bow, one heel-booted foot stretching out and off to the side slightly in a strange accent to his gesture. With a sweeping of his cloak and a cheery 'Arrivederci!', so too was the Iris off, likely forgetting to do or say something to be polite to the company. That was his way, though.
Degu — 08/15/2020
"A duelist? no." He said a little too seriously before realising he'd said it so, he tried to lighten it up with a smile "Just a man who will do what he must." there was a moment when he realised, though that... these people he was looking at? they were his peers. All his age... gods he felt old and tired sometimes and only 20 (well okay a couple of years older than them if you count the troll years but that's still not a huge gap). Perhaps it was to be expected, he was huge, his people aged quickly and died young without their gifts and even then...
He seemed to zone out. Mind racing privately, searching the last time he'd had friends his own damn age? could he afford to be a young man anymore? Ganu enjoyed the company of his older friends, his clan mates, but this had left him wondering if this wasn't something missing in his life.
"Uh-" he cleared his throat deeply, realising he had skipped the other question of what he'd done. He simply smiled "Just the right thing." was all he'd say, they could speculate on it all they wanted..not that Iris hadn't given them enough puzzle pieces to go over when they got home.
With Iris heading off he smiled with appreciation for his friend, patting his shoulder as he left. "Thank you, Iris. I've missed you... lets hope this does not force a wedge between us" he knew Iris wouldn't take a stance against him, the fellow gardener was far too neutral, but Adamo might give him little choice.
"I'd best go, like I said." he eyed the three strangers and bowed his head, turning to leave. The mention of tea in the garden- garden! garden.
He passed a tree but then grasped it with one huge, long arm and swung back around "Oh before I leave... I am a professional gardener...especially good with topiary, if you... have any need?" that was an in, right? Poor Argus in miniature swayed on his shoulder, looking moodily at Rosa. "Well, think about it! I'm the house with the strange ...sheepish llama thing outside."
"And a new fence, just on the last edges of the forest. Can't miss it" he beamed "Well! good evening to you all" and with that he turned back around the tree to continue for real on his journey home, grinning and talking to Argus quietly "Well you never know. It has been a serendipitous night, perhaps there is a reason for that, hm? ... of course...not including the Lord Papaveri part, but who knows, perhaps the man retains some fondness for me regardless." probably all mostly inaudible, but the indiscernible mumbling of him talking to his familiar followed him away from the scene.
Rigby — 08/16/2020
"Yeah...yeah." To Cienna.
Richa shared a surreptitious and mildly-boggled glance with Cienna at Ganu's proposition - think that would even be remotely allowed? Then again...employment wouldn't be the same as 'equal' by nature - despite how he spoke around this Iris and...strange-sounding visiting and vengeful Lord...
If it was to be her decision, she'd have to think it over, and she did dip her head in return with utmost propriety at his parting. "Good evening, then. Buona serata, Iris." (And a quick and savvy little grab at Rosa's scruff without breaking the flow of her mini-bow once the tyger attempted to sneak after Argus!"
Marc was still, head tilted, stare locked onto the troll. "Until next time."
And once the troll departed, he'd lifted his hand to the vampire, an aborted salute or wave somewhat more uncertainly. "I apologize for the smell!"
And soon it was just the three; on the departure of all things supernatural, Marc visibly relaxed, took a deep breath, and finally managed a grin. "Tea sounds excellent, 'course, Cie!"
Rook — 08/16/2020
At Ganu's proposition, Cienna was intrigued and somewhat unsure. She knew she hadn't much place to speak for Marcello and Richa's house, but could only offer a small bit for her own. "That would be something you'd have to talk to my brother, Tomm..aso about, if you want to try either of our Houses." She'd almost called him by his nickname, but that wasn't proper either! "He handles things like that while our father handles other things." Mostly getting to slip into his role as Heir, possibly, which she was fine with.
It meant she could chase wild tigres and run amuck with wild twins.
"Have a good evening, you three." A curtsy followed, and the Heiress rested her hand back against Marc's arm, smiling. "What an interesting turn of events, we must do this more often." She would tease gently, and now with unfamiliar company away, she decided to relax a bit on her more formal posture. "Let's go have tea, Marc, Richa. What blend tonight? Maybe a nice herbal.."
A hunt through the woods wasn't so strange for Quinne, but it'd been the first time he had taken the young reptilian children along with him. Small prey had been where he started with them, showing them how to properly track and be mindful of things that might try to stalk them too. There'd be nothing actually brought back, outside some of the wild fruit, but the boys hadn't quite gotten used to a bow yet. He had taken Trapper along, but had first left him near the forest's edge with Wight, and on the way back, the trio of children rode on his back.
Quinne held his reins with one hand to lead him and his bow in the other, starting the trek back to town with a lazy pace. Wight wandered behind them, perhaps not as content with the lack of food brought back (even if he did enjoy fruit), but the vampire figured he could deal with that later. Perhaps a proper boar hunt once the boys were asleep.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
It was the faceless flower-creature that had ensured the observer kept out of sight for the time being, yet the group as a whole had piqued its curiosity.
It hadn't been much at first; it followed at a distance, knowing enough of the hunt to keep out of the way, but savvy enough to use the undergrowth to get closer for a good look.
But it got greedy and it got closer as the entourage started to move again - and it got sloppy, not caring quite so much if it disrupted leaves and branches in its haste to keep up!
Rook — 08/09/2020
Quinne had overlooked the little stalker at first, but Wight and Trapper did not. Where Trapper was gone on trotting forward a little faster, the cryptid did the opposite and went over to where the noises came from. The vampire took a moment to calm the horse down, giving the reins to Marlo. "Don't go anywhere."
He wouldn't stray far from the boys and the horse, intent on putting himself between what was following them and that little group.
"Come out now." Quinne commanded, holding his bow up, but he didn't bother getting an arrow ready just yet.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
The sounds stopped immediately - whatever it was appeared to have realized its sloppiness a moment too late. There was a long stretch of absolute silence; nothing to indicate it had left, but nothing coming forth either. It was weighing its options. On occasion, there was the sound of something swallowing and bursts of short, wet pants.
And finally, slowly, out slunk something large, wolfish, horned and russet-red. Long tail and neck carried low, ears lowered, contrite. It would've been a proud looking beast had it not been covered in dust and burrs; body language intent on presenting something non-threatening, but it didn't extend to the thing's eyes, which were sharp and alert and flicking from creature to child to Quinne, constantly.
Rook — 08/09/2020
When something other than what he was expecting came wandering out, Quinne lowered the bow only to eventually slip it around his torso. Wight moved away as well and back over to the horse, though the vampire didn't move from his spot quite yet. "Can you speak?" He'd inquire, hoping the intelligence was more sapient than most and he'd take a look over its dirty body.
When it glanced to the children, he tensed the muscles of his forehead. "Nevermind them." One wrong look or move, however, was something he was sort of waiting for.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
An ear flicked up, and she raised her head slowly. Tail thrashed once nervously, involuntarily and catlike.
She'd shake her head, once - it was only slightly uncanny on such a weird animal frame, but enough to hint towards understanding.
She was well fed, usually well cared for - and utterly inept at being this far out of the city. Buried in that ginger mane was a plush, emerald green collar, also showing recent signs of scuffing, and she'd overall smelled faintly skunky. Sorry, kids.
Her eyes locked back on Quinne again at that command. She tilted her head quizzically, lowered her head, took one demonstrative step forward - along with them - and then raised it again, with a second head-tilt.
Rook — 08/09/2020
Once that scent hit him though, Quinne grimaced and decided to speak as little as possible. If he didn't have to breathe in, he could atleast avoid inhaling that smell, right? It had a collar, which meant someone else would be having the fun of bathing the creature.
It moved forward, and to lessen any chance of looking threatening, the vampire kneeled down before holding out a hand. Well, couldn't speak, but that didn't mean much. If he could see the collar, though, he figured he could find the owner.
Despite probably expected to stay, the trio of reptiles climbed down to get a closer look at the creature. Of course, without anyone keeping him steady, Trapper cantered off immediately to where home and safety waited.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
Quinne kneeling was cue for the tyger to move up a little quicker; she crept forward, tail erratically thrashing, and snuffled Quinne's hand (carefully - for how wolfish most of the creature seemed, her snout ended in a sharp little beak)!
There seemed evident wariness yet - undead wasn't a familiar or entirely trusted scent - but the man was not acting threatening, and the tyger figured that all groups like this would head back to civilization eventually! She'd rest the point of her beak on his hand for a while, slowly angling her head, once more.
The reptiles were tolerated with less hesitation in comparison, the uncertain thrashing of that tail easing into proper, ropy wags when they'd approached, and she'd offered some rumbling hums for each, shoving that long snout too-close into each of their faces (stench and all!) for some more boisterous snuffling!
Her ears would perk sharply at every distant shout - a man's voice, a couple women's voices. All over. Could've been birds. Could've been tricky fae. Hers?
Rook — 08/09/2020
"What a strange creature you are." Quinne said, idly wondering if she was one of the local fauna claimed as a pet, but she was certainly the first he'd seen like her so far. Since their adoptive father had gotten to pet her without a bite or a mauling, they decided this was a clear invitation.
Plus, she was wagging her tail.
"Wait-." It came too late, and the trio reached out to tentatively pet the smelly creature too. Wyn sneezed, and they all started chattering about the smell with no shortages of 'Ewwww's' giggled out. Obvious baths were in their future.
At the shouts, though, Quinne would look up and straighten again. He waited, just to try to make it if it was a couple people or birds mimicking sounds they've heard before.
Rigby — 08/09/2020
The tyger nodded once! But the swarm of children quickly became her main focus, and she'd bump and nuzzle against each - though headbutts were ginger - she knew right where those horns began and ended, and experience told her exactly how to measure where and how she'd bonk against her kids. They'd definitely have a story to bring back with that smell! (Perhaps to the jealousy of a certain pair of twins!)
Quinne on his diligent duty would've definitely made out some of the voices. They certainly would sound human (though here, one couldn't be too careful!) and some unwieldy tromping through underbrush to exeptionally sensitive ears would've definitely sounded
"ROSA" was a bit more distinct from one of the feminine voices, that time! And with that, it'd throw the rest into relief - there had been a LOT of "ROSA"s coming out of the women, and likely the man, too.
It would've been the man, at least... were he still shouting.
Because now, he didn't need to.
"...sir?"
Behind Quinne, standing there as silently as if he'd simply materialized right there on the spot.
It was a man, tall in the unwieldy way that indicated he'd gotten there in a rather short amount of time, hardly more than twenty, with black hair and an odd stare. He didn't look like the sort to sneak up on someone; indeed, he seemed outright uncomfortable (and likely wishing for his compatriots) - pale, peaked, a free hand clenching and unclenching; weaponless, there was nothing to grasp. The light was a little too bright, sounds and smells a little too vibrant, the shadows more comfort. But there was something trained about his bearing, nevertheless, hammered and forced into the shape of reflexive propriety, outdoor hunting-wear an ensemble of impeccable black and silver, emblazoned with a bird of green and flaming red, and pale shape not unlike the animal happily rolling around for the kids.
"...I don't want to interrupt, but...you may have something of mine."
Rook — 08/09/2020
The kids were happy to return the gentle headbutts and they continued petting sweet Rosa, much to Quinne's concern. Not because of the chance she'd get tired of it (she seemed to love the attention!), but due to the constant smell.
He pulled his own hand away when the calls for a 'Rosa' continued, but the sudden voice behind him caught him by surprise and he turned to face the young man, bewildered. He immediately stood, attempting to hide his surprise. Quinne stared back, noting the actions of his hands and that heightened feel about him. The light concerned him, even if the smell should have as well.
"Good evening. Sorry about that, she wandered over and the kids got a little curious." Wyn made his way over to Quinne, peeking around his legs at this stranger. "We've no intentions of keeping her."
Rigby — 08/09/2020
"That sounds about right. ROSA."
And the tyger sat STRAIGHT up with a whirr of a hum (though careful not to bowl over any children even then!) that bubbled over into a bright and relieved 'YIP,' one answered by the kid crouching over to hug that stinky mane after yelping and scolding her and frenetically scratch behind each long ear.
If there was some way to encapsulate antsy and too-controlled into one's bearing, this kid seemed to have managed it. Something vaguely noble or militaristic won out, called upon in fits and spurts, and he stood up straight. Though oddities still would surface; Wyn moving earned a slightly-alien movement of the young man's head, favoring one eye with that unblinking stare when regarding the little naga.
But he could still manage propriety. Or at least attempt it. He didn't extend either gloved hand (and seemed almost too-keen on picking out the burrs instead!) but he did nod. "Good evening. She...gets out. A lot." Almost by way of explanation. "I don't blame her. Didn't blame her. Can probably blame her for the smell though."
Regarding Wyn, after a beat and a little smile. "Hello. I've only ever heard of his sort, before."
Rook — 08/09/2020
The little beardie twins moved away when the tyger sat up and they joined Wyn, but didn't seem too concerned about this stranger as the naga was. "I'm glad she only came out with a smell, seems like a good companion." Quinne commented, reaching down to pick up Wyn when there seemed to be an odd stare towards his way.
It was a protective gesture, to be sure, but not one too aggressive.
Wight stepped out of the brush then, but upon a whispered word from his Master, the cryptid walked off in the same direction Trapper did. "Not many places around here with his race, I imagine. He comes from a more wild island." Atleast where the tribes were concerned. The Tether could be considered, arguably, a bit more refined. "I don't think I've seen you around before, my name is Quinne and you are..?" No hand had been offered at first, so the vampire didn't do the same yet.
Rigby — 08/10/2020
There was visible strange tension when the man spotted Wight, but it was so brief and so odd it could've only been startlement. Right?
But it did appear that this man could be distracted with and intrigued by foreign facts, even as his words were still somewhat stilted, and as he was picking at some of the burrs that had lodged themselves in his gloves and taken a considerable amount of Rosa fluff with. "I've heard of those islands. Read all about them, never been." It was a bit rueful. "But I wouldn't, I suppose."
There was something about the little rich boy inherent in the way he stood up straight, then. He rolled his shoulders and attempted to put on an air of vanity befitting his station.
"Marcello di Aiolfi, of the human courts. Of the Aiolfo of the Faewatch." The name was accompanied by a gesture to the silvery creature on his clothes; the green and red bird went without comment for now.
"And this silly creature is Rosa. My sister and my...our friend are...around, somewhere."(edited)
Rook — 08/10/2020
"Not really worth a lot of visits, if you ask me." Quinne said, despite his own. But, the boy infront of him was young and the vampire doubted any visits there would be fruitful or positive. "Visit nicer places, there are quite a few." He had noted the reaction to Wight, but didn't offer it any acknowledgement.
When Marc straightened his posture and mentioned who he was, Quinne would incline his head. "It is nice to meet you, Marcello. Do you often have a 'Lord' tacked infront of your name, or do you use another title?" Perhaps Lord was better suited for his father or an older brother.
"Rosa, a very nice name for her."
It was then Cienna came wandering out of the woodlands, holding up her silks and she glanced to the stranger with his very scaly children. "Oh! Hello!" She said, stopping by her friend's side. "I see you found her."
yam — 08/10/2020
Of all the times to be wandering around, and of course of all the times to be wandering into another group of newly-met people-folk, Iris had managed (though it was signature of him surely) to wander into these people-folk just as they were introducing themselves. Dressed in Pantone Veronica brocade accented in delicate, glinting gold floral embroidery and his dear ombre cloak, he both blended in and stuck out like a sore thumb.
What little visible skin there was near-glowed white in contrast, golden eyes ever lazy, lips ever smirled. With him, a reed basket over a forearm. Within, the following: a neatly folded, unfolded and then refolded note, a thin golden chain at least ten feet long and tied together with a red silk ribbon, several flowers and seed pods and what looked to be a half-eaten apple. How nice.
Iris did not introduce himself. He simply (slowly, but casually) wandered over, stood in quiet a moment, then (when the time felt right and no others were speaking) said, "'Tis a nice night for a stroll, is it not? Most pleasant indeed."
Degu — 08/10/2020
Speaking of faewatch, how about one of faewatch's most wanted riding atop a branch-antlered elemental lion? The fauna crunched quickly as something hefty moved towards them with haste but not at a run. Strange orange glowing could be seen between the trees and pinprick glowing green eyes from the beast. "Master Quinne!? It's Ganu" he called out as he drew nearer so that the clansman wasn't inclined to raise a weapon. Always identify yourself upon approach in areas of bad visibility, good practice, especially as a troll.
He finally reached them, pushing through the trees, looking alarmed for whatever reason. The sight of Wyn had him feeling an even stronger pang of protective urge but he quelled it. He sat there atop his gigantic, saddled lion and looked down at Marcello. He'd missed the introduction, he had no idea who this stranger was... but then Iris.
Wait. Iris?!
His eyes widened in surprise, a grin of delight burst forth "Iris!? friend, what are you doing here!?" he said but then that grin faded as he realised too quickly the implications. Marcello was eyed again, as were the trees.
If he were not held at weapons point he'd seek to dismount his lion, still standing at 8ft 1 inches even then. "Is everything alright, Master Quinne?" he had many questions but as clan leader that had to be his most important "Argus smelled ...a lot of strange things on our way home" a grimace given and he was trying to discern who smelled the most of dead-skunk and his eyes landed upon Rosa, a small smile soon followed. Curious creature.
Rigby — 08/10/2020
"Still...it's the worlds outside of the gates. Crossing them's usually for dignitaries and tradesmen... the benefits of being a legend. Not for...soon-to-be-captain-generals or heir apparent. Or...Lords." That title left his lips with apparent discomfort, a title too-large and too quickly foisted upon someone who'd not yet expected it. Perhaps there had been an older brother...
The words had still come stilted, laced with that slight pause often befitting those translating in their head. He didn't fully relax; there was still that odd bearing and the strange and erratic mannerisms leaking into his movements, but Quinne had perhaps accidentally touched on something he could express (and indeed, all three nobles dirtying themselves up at night chasing after their pet!)
But there was one thing that could distract Rosa from Marc's gloved attempts at grooming - and that was Cienna, popping up in this confusing woodland, and she'd made sure to shove past him on the way to get to her! Poor Cienna was now the target of the smelly headbutts and rather purposeful leans as Rosa tried pressing her side against the heiress' legs.
It was also a testament to the awkwardness of the encounter with how quickly Marc oscillated between that stilted, oddly-restrained propriety and a very-honest and undignified "HEY-!" and vain scrambling to grab hold of his pet as the big tyger muscled over, around and past him in order to get to her! (And reaching her before Marc could, to his somewhat awkward and evident dismay!) "Cie, nonono, she reeks, don't do it-!!*
Blessedly, she was likely spared the brunt of it as Iris arrived! This was altogether so much and so new for the tyger that she'd ended up breaking and pacing excitably in circles, snuffling at the kids again, ropy tail flicking, before ending on Iris and ventured poking that beak into his basket. ("Hello...I apologize, Rosa, NO!") [cont]
[8:09 PM]
However any further apologies to this new person were halted as the arrival of a font of magic, veritably bursting from the troll's potential, never mind the animal he rode in on. And Marc locked up a moment before the lion and troll arrived on the scene, a brief anticipation of their arrival. It wasn't like the vampire - the first man had not identified himself, but
He was wearing his own face. He could not.
A "CIENNAAAA, MARRRC-!" was an exasperated female shout, closer now.
He'd found himself slowly and almost stubbornly stiffening and standing up straight once more. something twisting in his core, fixing the newest pair with the hard and appraising stare of something less (or something more) than human
"Not that strange-!" was finally a croak that he'd hoped sounded normal, hoped sounded at all. "You don't have to bathe her!"
Rook — 08/10/2020
"Indeed. Perhaps you won't have to be out here all the time depending on how far she wanders." Quinne said, reaching over to pat Rosa gently on her flank. When Iris made his presence known, the vampire turned his attention to him. "Very much so, but getting late. Are you going into the woods? It is quiet, so you might not be bothered by some of the more curious animals. Outside the birds anyway." Or the tiny reptiles, but neither of those were much of a threat.
In Quinne's arms, Wyn remained relaxed, but wide-eyed at all the people showing up. The sound of something approaching left the vampire a little on edge, but he turned when Ganu spoke up. "Yes, just returned from taking the boys out through the woods and met this young man. His Rosa here met a skunk...and of course, that smell is now covering many little hands." A smirk lingered, as he rested his free hand against the top of Sika's head. Not that he had strayed from petting her.
Cienna had almost reached for Rosa, up until they talked about the smell and she rested a hand against her lips. "Oh no, I'm sure my father would just love that." She offered a gentle smile to Iris, curious about this stranger and their basket of goods. However, the sight of Ganu took her by surprise (as did his mount) and she moved closer to Marc's side. More out of nervousness than anything, but they were now basically surrounded by strangers.
"We are over here!" She called out to the voice from the woods, wanting them both nearby and to have a bit more safety in numbers.
yam — 08/10/2020
"My dear friend Ganu! 'Tis a surprise, but a welcome one!" Iris without any sort of boundaries floated over to the troll and gave one of his big arms a boney little squeeze with one of his own. Backing up, he'd glance at the others, still rather unconcerned, and say without any regard to the potential secrecy of his 'mission', "Looking for something of the Master's, you see... 'tis most important to the poor dear, has him worried terribly. Dragged Luca and I along and everything." Well that answered that question.
Golden eyes flitted about the group- from the scaley little ones, the various faces that seemed to be in company of one another, the great beasts that were friend and not foe- there was a great number of things to process! ...and of course, this being Iris, he processed them differently than he really ought to and despite hearing the warning of stench and smelling it waft on the 'wind', he approached the tyger without an ounce of hesitance and offered the creature his hand palm-up to snuffle at.
"My what a wonderful beastie, she is, yes she is! Rosa? How lovely, how suiting, my my~" okay Iris tone it done. That sing-song nasal voice of his sounded oh-so-familiar with the tyger as if he had known her since her cub days despite only just meeting her. He seemed utterly unbothered by her snuffling his basket.
ADHD be damned and somewhat belatedly, he turned to Quinne, head cocking sideways whilst his braid fell from his shoulder to dangle behind. "I have been in the woods, young man, and have not been bothered once. Not that I would mind it, you see." though he didn't elaborate. "My name is Iris. Hello. Hello." he proceeded to say 'hello' to each person present, even the children and animals. (there)(edited)
Degu — 08/10/2020
Ganu smiled at Marc as he returned Iris' hug one armed. "Not terribly strange, but that companion of yours has likely smelled better" he motioned towards the Tyger with the fond stare of an animal lover but he resisted calling her over "When you bathe her, add some natron salts in with the soap, lest you want her to smell for the next few weeks." he chuckled deeply, though that smile faded at what Iris had said. Just as he'd thought.
"Lord Papaveri is here." he said to Iris but it was for Quinne to hear as well "Is he nearby? ...on a scale of 'cup of tea' to 'public duel to the death' how vengeful would you say he is, friend?" Ganu asked with concern, worried that poor Luca had been brought along.
Argus was sniffing with disgust at Rosa, rumbling and turning his head away to try and escape behind a tree for some distance from the smell.
The troll had missed the introduction, he offered a gigantic, three-fingered hand to Marcello "Ganu. Sorry to if my arrival startled you... my familiar smelled Quinne and strangers, I had to be sure my friend wasn't under attack." he said with a smile, his pupils reflecting in the darkness perhaps unsettlingly, his markings glowing softly.
His eyes lifted to the trees "It seems you are missed." he said in regards to the voices calling for them in the distance.
Rigby — 08/11/2020
"See, now we just have to figure out how to get her home without meeting mine!" These fathers clearly had something of a reputation.
Cienna moved closer, and with a slight, reflexive slink, Marc stepped into a better position between her and that magic. He didn't appear to have any weapons, but that didn't seem to matter.
Rosa seemed a bit annoyed that her Marc was getting ahead of her and warning people away from the pets. She didn't smell THAT bad, really! An exasperated whuff and Iris was deemed the new favorite for the next several seconds or so - at least until Argus tried to slip away. She had to follow it, naturally!
People were talking but the words slipped right on by - at least until Ganu offered his hand.
A spike of something intangible and strange. He almost seemed to reach, to want to reach, gloved fingers flicked, hand clasped and flexed; he instead opted for a dip of his head in greeting, instead, and ending with a soft "Your friend is fine." A beat. "Plesaure, Ganu."
A sudden spike of misplaced fear, a discreet grasp at Cie's hand and -
"A what, a lord's around? Causing trouble?!" And the third human of the night came stomping through the forest; a woman roughly the same age, dirtied finery emblazoned with the same green, silver tyger and fiery bird, but already considerably more animated. She'd entered the scene, frowning and taking in far more people than she'd been expecting when she'd first set out to wrangle that tyger. "...oh." And then a sniff. "...OH. Marc, you're taking her." Decision made, spare the girls.
Without much prompting at all, she ended up the one to offer her hand or clasp Ganu's, should it still have been offered. "Lady Enrica."
Rook — 08/11/2020
"My name is Quinne." The vampire replied, after the words 'young man' slipped from Iris' lips and he tensed up his posture. Papaveri's presence didn't surprise him, but it did concern him. It'd only be a matter of time until he figured out what happened, but Quinne asked no questions to avoid the risk of a suspicious response from Iris.
He bowed his head to Cienna, who offered a curtsy in response.
Cienna smiled to Iris' greeting, though she raised an eyebrow when Ganu spoke to Marcello and she sounded amused. "You are missed." She repeated, half-closing her eyes a moment as she glanced away. Marc's reach for her hand hadn't gone unnoticed and she placed her petite fingers in his, so long as she didn't distract him from shaking Ganu's.
"As for Rosa and your father, we could try sneaking into the cellar." She whispered conspiratorially to him, looking over to Enrica when she arrived and she would smile again. "Remember what he's suggested too, since you'll be bathing her, Marcello." The full name was usually not one she used, but in public, it seemed a lot more proper.
yam — 08/12/2020
Iris, ever the optimist and unable (unwilling?) to see Adamo as a lethal force to be reckoned with, only laughed. He laughed a jittery, musical little laugh and would raise a hand to limp-wristedly swat at the troll's forearm. "Har! I wonder." that isn't comforting in the slightest, Iris. "I suppose he is in a 'private gentleman's duel to settle things, first to be disarmed wins' state of vengeance. He is not nearly as vexed as you would expect. Perhaps he is simply behaving himself because he is around Luca." Adamo had never hurt Iris, but he had certainly had a temper toward him and in his presence more than once.
In response to the stranger's concern, a hand would wave dismissively. "He is not causing trouble. If he was you would be able to hear him from where you stand now!" While not entirely true, he wasn't entirely being false, either. From those distant eyes ignited a spark of actual presence and Iris let out a little 'ah', a slender, finely manicured finger raising. "Has anybody here seen a unicorn about? Eh- unicornus, yes? A fair hoof-beast with a long tail and a lone horn atop it's proud head. I seek one, you see. T'was lost and is sorely missed."
Whether Iris was intentionally tipping them off to protect the unicorn, avoid it, or collect it was anyone's guess. He may simply be stupid, though we like to think he's not. What was clear above all else though was how in-his-own-head Iris was. He seemed almost detached from the others' conversations. It didn't seem to be a selfish kind of detachment, either. He seemed only just lucid, which was the norm but not everyone knew it.
Degu — 08/12/2020
"Lady Enrica" Ganu repeated and took her hand, though he was now picking up on Marc's tension through the earth he stood on, the rigidity of his muscles were more than telling. The troll, ever trained in etiquette at least at a serviceable level, bent down and carefully pressed a kiss to the back of the Lady's hand before rising and releasing it.
Argus let out a big sad "RAauuuu!" of complaint as Rosa came after him and bounded away, whining and complaining like the big sabretoothed softy he was. He ran in a circle around the group, trying so hard to get away before seemingly disappearing. The saddle fell to the ground and a house-cat sized version of him, looking more like a norwegian forest cat than anything, ran from beneath it and climbed quickly up a tree with a tiny hiss.
Ganu laughed and reached out for the big saddle "Stop being anti-social Argus. Come on down." he put out an arm and the feline leapt down onto his shoulder with a low growl and glowing glare down at poor Rosa.
"Only trouble for me I expect." he finally added to what Marc had said and cast another glance to Quinne. "If he's practically on my doorstep I expect he's after me. Arrange a meeting for us, Iris? leave a letter around here in the woodlands fastened to some sage and I will find it." he knew Argus would, at least.
His concern turned towards the mentioned unicorn "I must return home. It was good to see you again my friend. And you, friends...I hope your companion smells a little better by the morn" he mused, fixing the group of relative strangers with a warm smile. "Quinne." he nodded to his friend and clasped his shoulder before reaching down to give Wyn a gentle hug against his calf "See you soon kiddo." and with that, unless stopped he'd be off on foot, given that his mount had shrunken.
Rigby — 08/14/2020
The clasp for Cienna's hand searched for support, and not a moment too soon as his sister moved in for the talking, instead. Something about it quivered. Not fear, not relief, but something perhaps adjacent to both and reminiscent of his illness she'd seen from before.
But it also seemed to act as anchor; that coupled with the appearance of his twin seemed to ensure enough lucidity to follow the conversation about this rogue noble.
And shoot her a look of pantomime indignance when she agreed that he was the one ultimately cursed with the stink! "Oh, she's not escaping this one either!" ("YOU lost her, Marc!" was a quick little hiss in return!) Followed by a little, far-more-human twinkle in his eyes and a little nod. Rosa was going in through the cellar after this!
But returning to the conversation, and mention of duels and odd cagey unicorn questions, and his following "What did you do?" was silky and curious, the control slightly more natural than before.
Iris assured Richa about Adamo and how one could hear the guy coming. A squint and swivel of her head, a spark of wary amusement in her expression as it too slid back to the troll. "Really! Fancy yourself a duelist, then?"
Rosa yelped at Argus' transformation into his travel-size, but then she rumbled lowly, stopping just short of launching into her full and resonant howl and satisfying for a more rolling hum, rising and dipping in cadences that could've almost sounded conversational. She'd followed him keenly then, perching her forepaws on the tree on which Argus had escaped, and retreating to her haunches once he'd fled to the troll.
Rook — 08/15/2020
"I should get these three to the bath before the smell bugs me further." It was damn near all around him at this point and heightened senses only further threatened to give him a headache from it. He set Wyn down in time for Ganu to hug him and he nodded to the troll, looking to Iris a moment after. "See you later." He offered to the more familiar of the bunch and he'd step as well, followed by the trio of scaly children to their house. Inwardly, he hoped he had something there to rid the kids' hands of the horrible smell.
Cienna would offer Marc a concerned look, resting her other hand atop his now once she noticed the tremble. "Do you want to take Rosa home now? Have some tea in the garden? I'm sure my parents won't mind." But only after the tigre got cleaned up! She watched the troll leave, but said nothing, though she gave his own furry companion a curious look. Given neither showed signs of being a threat, she relaxed a bit more now.
yam — 08/15/2020
"I shall." Was the only response offered to Ganu before Iris glanced this way and that, casually of course. "I suppose I should be on my way then. I must play the messenger." goodie. "T'was nice to 'run into' you all, of course. And to see such lovely creatures." he peered fondly at the tyger and Argus, clearly unbothered by the skunky perfume Rosa wore. Which was seriously bizarre because NO ONE liked skunky smell. "Off I go then. Good evening boys and girls, behave yourselves." he'd offer a curtsy-bow, one heel-booted foot stretching out and off to the side slightly in a strange accent to his gesture. With a sweeping of his cloak and a cheery 'Arrivederci!', so too was the Iris off, likely forgetting to do or say something to be polite to the company. That was his way, though.
Degu — 08/15/2020
"A duelist? no." He said a little too seriously before realising he'd said it so, he tried to lighten it up with a smile "Just a man who will do what he must." there was a moment when he realised, though that... these people he was looking at? they were his peers. All his age... gods he felt old and tired sometimes and only 20 (well okay a couple of years older than them if you count the troll years but that's still not a huge gap). Perhaps it was to be expected, he was huge, his people aged quickly and died young without their gifts and even then...
He seemed to zone out. Mind racing privately, searching the last time he'd had friends his own damn age? could he afford to be a young man anymore? Ganu enjoyed the company of his older friends, his clan mates, but this had left him wondering if this wasn't something missing in his life.
"Uh-" he cleared his throat deeply, realising he had skipped the other question of what he'd done. He simply smiled "Just the right thing." was all he'd say, they could speculate on it all they wanted..not that Iris hadn't given them enough puzzle pieces to go over when they got home.
With Iris heading off he smiled with appreciation for his friend, patting his shoulder as he left. "Thank you, Iris. I've missed you... lets hope this does not force a wedge between us" he knew Iris wouldn't take a stance against him, the fellow gardener was far too neutral, but Adamo might give him little choice.
"I'd best go, like I said." he eyed the three strangers and bowed his head, turning to leave. The mention of tea in the garden- garden! garden.
He passed a tree but then grasped it with one huge, long arm and swung back around "Oh before I leave... I am a professional gardener...especially good with topiary, if you... have any need?" that was an in, right? Poor Argus in miniature swayed on his shoulder, looking moodily at Rosa. "Well, think about it! I'm the house with the strange ...sheepish llama thing outside."
"And a new fence, just on the last edges of the forest. Can't miss it" he beamed "Well! good evening to you all" and with that he turned back around the tree to continue for real on his journey home, grinning and talking to Argus quietly "Well you never know. It has been a serendipitous night, perhaps there is a reason for that, hm? ... of course...not including the Lord Papaveri part, but who knows, perhaps the man retains some fondness for me regardless." probably all mostly inaudible, but the indiscernible mumbling of him talking to his familiar followed him away from the scene.
Rigby — 08/16/2020
"Yeah...yeah." To Cienna.
Richa shared a surreptitious and mildly-boggled glance with Cienna at Ganu's proposition - think that would even be remotely allowed? Then again...employment wouldn't be the same as 'equal' by nature - despite how he spoke around this Iris and...strange-sounding visiting and vengeful Lord...
If it was to be her decision, she'd have to think it over, and she did dip her head in return with utmost propriety at his parting. "Good evening, then. Buona serata, Iris." (And a quick and savvy little grab at Rosa's scruff without breaking the flow of her mini-bow once the tyger attempted to sneak after Argus!"
Marc was still, head tilted, stare locked onto the troll. "Until next time."
And once the troll departed, he'd lifted his hand to the vampire, an aborted salute or wave somewhat more uncertainly. "I apologize for the smell!"
And soon it was just the three; on the departure of all things supernatural, Marc visibly relaxed, took a deep breath, and finally managed a grin. "Tea sounds excellent, 'course, Cie!"
Rook — 08/16/2020
At Ganu's proposition, Cienna was intrigued and somewhat unsure. She knew she hadn't much place to speak for Marcello and Richa's house, but could only offer a small bit for her own. "That would be something you'd have to talk to my brother, Tomm..aso about, if you want to try either of our Houses." She'd almost called him by his nickname, but that wasn't proper either! "He handles things like that while our father handles other things." Mostly getting to slip into his role as Heir, possibly, which she was fine with.
It meant she could chase wild tigres and run amuck with wild twins.
"Have a good evening, you three." A curtsy followed, and the Heiress rested her hand back against Marc's arm, smiling. "What an interesting turn of events, we must do this more often." She would tease gently, and now with unfamiliar company away, she decided to relax a bit on her more formal posture. "Let's go have tea, Marc, Richa. What blend tonight? Maybe a nice herbal.."
