Nicholas
*The day was clear, despite the frigid air that whipped through the mountain trails. The sun offered a mild respite to what had been a frigid journey, especially for the weather Kynia was used to. While her plumage wasn't for show, the rolling hills of Corol Ambo were clement for most of the year. The harpy had only seen snow in thin layers, and nowhere near enough for her to sink into if she wasn't careful. It had been unpleasant, to say the least.

But this was not a trip taken for pleasure. For Kynia was gifted with foresight, granted by her ancestors and her role as chieftain of the Faeplume flock. If the 'calamity' she had seen in her communions was to be avoided, her people had to unite. So onwards she trudged, noticing how the snow began to thin.*
"Oh. A village," *She chirped softly, the quiver in her voice lessening as the prospect of a warm room spurred her along the path faster. She soon found herself amongst hooded lanterns, stout and sturdy huts built into the mountains themselves. Her chirps turned to happy trills, trotting closer to a signpost and leaning on her tip-toes to read it.*
William
Caught in somewhat of the opposite situation as Kynia, Vena had found herself staying in this small village until the weather got even slightly better at this point, considering how long the changeling had already wasted in what was becoming an increasing large gold-sink for every day she spent in the inn. During her time there, Vena had adopted somewhat of a daily ritual, spending each morning near the entrance of the village, sipping a hot drink while waiting for the day the snow seemed ever so thinner.

Today almost seemed like that day, had she not been distracted by a newcomer- glaring up at a signpost with such distracted enthusiasm that it almost let rise to some instinctual feeling of 'I could pickpocket her' within the rogue. She was much too far away from any other village to attempt such a risky thing, instead approaching the harpy with a friendly smile.

"You haven't been travelling through the mountains have you? Even I'm hiding from the snow, and I doubt those feathers have helped as much as fur would." A strange comment, if Kynia didn't recognize Vena's race- since she didn't have any fur at all, currently in her normal form, with plain white skin, hair and pupilless eyes.
Nicholas
*Vena's words would reach the harpy after a few moments, seemingly preoccupied with hopping close enough to the sign to read it. At the mention of feathers, Kynia would cock her head in perplexion, then swivel her body to face the stranger. She shook her body free of snow, the downy feathers under her flight plumage puffed up from the chill.*

"I would usually fly, but the snow is too heavy. I am not a fledgling anymore, my down is too thin to rely on in this weather. Do you have fur? What sort of person are you?"
*The harpy's train of thought rolled aimlessly through the conversation, her eyes swiveling between the sign and Vena. Eventually she hopped closer, examining her head to toe; chirping curiously in-between her comments and questions.*
William
Vena held back a small giggle from watching the harpy shake off all the snow on her, freeing her feathers from it in an admittedly entertaining reveal. Vena had always been extra observant when it came to the characteristics of others, just in case they had to mimic them later on and she couldn't help but find Kynia's instantly endearing- possibly because of an already established fondness of bird's chirping and singing.

At their question, Vena seemed confused before looking down at herself and realizing she had misspoken. It wasn't that she hid who she was but referencing her abilities without any need to wasn't wise. 

"A very pale one," They answered vaguely, before sticking a hand out to shake. "Named Vena, and I can tell you now there isn't much of anything interesting on that sign or in this town."
Nicholas
"You are very pale, yes. Do you live in the mountains? It isn't very sunny here, so you would be very pale."
*Kynia would nod in agreement, staring at her hand for a moment. Recognition flickered in her eyes, raising a wing to return the gesture. The breadth of her flight feathers would brush along Vena's forearm, feeling an avian talon grip her hand and shake.

Another blank moment passed before the harpy recalled the next step, perking up at the mention of a name.*
"Oh- Yes, Vena. Good. My name is Kynia of the Faeplume. What does this sign say? Does it say anything about an inn? Or about harpies?"
William
"Definitely not, just held hostage here till it's nicer to travel." Vena replied, noticing Kynia's momentary confusion and wondering if it was perhaps a little silly to assume a harpy would know about handshakes in the first place. "I've never met a harpy before, guess around these mountains would be where I'd be likely to run into one."

A little bit of excitement struck Vena at the possibility of being able to shapeshift into a harpy, considering she had never even seen a painting of one before. Is flying truly as effortless as they make it seem? 

"'Kynia of the Faeplume'" Vena repeated, failing to recall any memory of the title. "Sounds important."

"Nothing about harpies...? But the inn's that way, only one but I reckon they've plenty of rooms- I don't seem to have any neighbours."
Nicholas
*Her exuberance soon turned to concern, her expression deepening with consternation.*
"I had heard stories of winged raiders in these mountains... Perhaps they're further up the trail. I hope my journeys this far from Anduillan haven't been for nothing."

"I will ask at this inn. Come, it is too cold to speak for so long out here."
*Kynia would shift gears almost immediately at the mention of free rooms, waddling towards the largest building amongst the hamlet; she assumed it was the inn.*

"I think it is. I am their chieftain, after all. Our flock is quite large for our lifespans."
*An air of pride entered the little harpy's voice, puffing out her chest as a broad smile painted her lips. At this point, she walked with her back turned to the building, watching Vena intently – she'd said nothing but interesting things so far, it would be good to continue listening.*
"Who are your people? You did not mention a tribe name."
William
"*Winged Raiders*? Harpies, like you?" Vena clearly shared some of Kynia's concern, even if it wasn't for themself. They would be long gone soon but this village could barely defend itself against a couple thugs, let alone a raiding party. 

Vena doesn't argue with her suggestion, following Kynia towards her correctly guessed inn-like building.

"Chieftain, whew. That is important." Vena said with surprise, wondering if she should be trying to make a far better impression. "Tribe- er- I don't think I have one, or people really. Suppose I'm a bit of an outlander."

Despite travelling on their own and barely talking to anyone since staying in this town, saying they 'didn't have people' out-loud stung a lot more than it should've.
Nicholas
"Harpies, but not like me. My flock doesn't raid civilised places, only the other tribes. Especially the Lamia..."
*Her expression darkened as her mind cast back to her younger years, recalling the conflicts between her flock and the dens that lurked in the patches of forest.

But it faded quickly, her aimless curiosity returning as they passed the threshold and into the relative warmth of the inn's interior. A few heads turned at the sound of chirping, mild panic turning to confusion. The attention soon dissipated, Kynia taking her time to soak in the environment.*

"Hm hm, in some ways I am important. I am the flock's link to our ancestors, something only the chieftain can do. But I am not the best hunter, or flyer, or tailor."
*She hummed, walking idly in quarter-circles around the landing in front of the main desk. The clerk wore a patient smile, glancing to Vena with a searching glare.*
"An outlander? My flock would call you 'pilgrim'. We learnt it from the elves. There is great bravery in being without the tribe, especially for a long time. Are you brave, Vena?"
William
"I've heard harpies are pretty fierce." Vena said as she offered a couple onlookers some rude gestures when she was sure Kynia wasn't looking in reply to their glares, downplaying the real stories she'd heard- which portrayed harpies as quite the violent creatures.

"So you're a historian? Or something more spiritual?" Vena asked before turning to the confused clerk, leaning on the desk and wordlessly pointing at the room keys behind him.

"I'm-" Vena's instinct was to declare herself a coward on the spot but a rare moment of confidence struck her as she looked down at her pure white hands. Not many of her kind would even appear as such, and then again not many of any kind would simply throw themselves into the wilderness in search of new adventure as she had. "In some ways and not in others."

"Reckon you'd be interested in something to warm to drink? My treat. I'd love to hear more about your tribe, or really anything. Been a while since I've had any good conversation."
Nicholas
"They can be. I hear the Western harpies are more territorial. The humans take less care of the land than the elves, there is less to share. Are you human, Vena? Or elf? Or maybe a dwarf? I've not seen a dwarf before."
*Kynia hopped back over to Vena as the conversation continued, glancing between her and the clerk. The uneasiness seemed to fade, the young woman smiling a little softer and fetching a set of keys. The harpy would stare long at the sign behind the clerk's head, her eyes brightening after a few moments as her wing sweeped behind her. A clattering of metal was heard as she took off for a second, dropping one too many coins onto the desk. Flustered mutterings followed as the correct change was separated, the clerk leaning down to hand her the excess.*
"Oh, thank you. Spiritual, I think. Our history is kept by older harpies than I," *She chirped back, trotting over to the window and watching the snowfall, trilling sadly.*
"I hoped the snow would wane faster... But it's going away slowly. But that would be nice, yes. I would also like to hear more about the ways you are brave."
Hope
*The key was slid over to Vena, the young woman raising a brow at her.*
"This is for you, ma'am? Or the bird?"
*The last word was stressed deliberately, casting a confused eye over Kynia as she bounced in place.*
William
"None of those, I'll show you in a moment- in fact I can show you your first dwarf as well." Vena vaguely promised, somewhat enjoying teasing the inquisitive harpy about Vena's own uncommon race.

"I've been waiting for the snow to wane for about a week now. It's a bit of gambler's fallacy but I hope that means it'll do so soon." 

"The bird. That isn't a problem, yeah?" Vena sternly replied to the innkeeper, clearly a rhetorical question. "And we'd like something hot to drink each, cider or spiced wine whatever's the cheapest."
Hope
*The clerk held Vena's gaze for a tense moment, before sighing and shaking her head.*
"No, of course not... Her money's fine. You're not from around here, so I don't expect you to know."
Nicholas
*Her head cocked to the side, blinking quickly at the pair. Her wings fluttered as she hopped closer, examining Vena a touch closer.*
"Do you have art of dwarves with you? I have seen pictures, but not in person. What is spiced wine? I have seen cider, it is made with apples."
*Her attention flicked to the window once more, twittering impatiently at the falling snow. A small pout crossed her lips, though her tone didn't shift to match her face.*
"I do not like this snow, it has stayed too long."
William
Vena replied to the clerk with no more than a not-so-friendly smile before turning their attention back to Kynia. Maybe a bit rude of her but if anyone could understand just how pointless discrimination was, it would be Vena considering they have experienced it from a multitude of different perspectives.

"Restless, huh?" Vena giggled at the harpy's constant indecision on who, what or where she should be focusing. "Spiced wine's exactly what it sounds like- just the usual stuff with some spices and served hot. It's nice."

As they spoke, the changeling walked past Kynia and towards a small empty table near a window, facing towards the empty street outside. They briefly considered being a gentleman and pulling out a chair for their feathered friend but ultimately decided the convention was likely unneeded, instead simply sliding into the chair facing Kynia.

"Tell me about it, though I have to say I think I prefer it to travelling in scorching heats." They remarked before gesturing at the chair opposite of them. "Sit down and I'll show you a dwarf."
Nicholas
*Kynia followed closely behind, deftly climbing onto the chair opposite Vena's and floating into the seat. She kicked her legs as she marvelled at the furniture.*
"That sounds nice. I have drank wine only once before, it was a while ago."
*Her fidgeting lessened at the second mention of 'showing her a dwarf', her head scanning around the room quickly in anticipation.*
"Where is this dwarf? Are they nearby?"
William
"You've been missing out, it's usually a bit rich for my tastes but I once sto- I once had the chance to try a *Very* Fancy bottle and I have to say everything they say about finely aged wine's true." Vena said as she watched Kynia sit opposite of her, smirking as the harpy looked around the room for a dwarf.

For the first couple turns of her head, Kynia would see no dwarf in the room. Though, in a mere instant as she turned back, she would find that Vena had disappeared. In the changeling's place was a much shorter and somehow also much larger dwarven women, wearing the same (now incredibly ill-fitting) clothes as Vena had been wearing.

"Now I reckon this lass wouldn't agree with me' taste for wine." Vena said, her voice matching the new body completely- even if it was clear her dwarven mannerisms could use a little work. "They tend to stick to the beer."
Nicholas
*Kynia froze immediately. Her eyes sharpened, one wing unfurling to reveal a long, thin lance grasped between her hand-talon. Her voice lost its warmth, the avian shrillness overtaking it.*
"What happened to Vena. Who are you? How did you-"

*But their rising hostility halted a moment later, their nose twitching gently. Confusion seized her features, out-of-tune chirps following suit. The lance retreated under her wings as she pulled them around her like a cloak once more.*
"...I am confused."
William
"Woah- Calm down." Vena said, raising her hands in a surrendering gesture as her eyes remained trained on the lance. Despite her seemingly being focused on disarming the situation, it was clear in Vena's now expressionful face that she was planning on striking first if the harpy didn't calm down.

Luckily Kynia did and Vena let out out a long sigh as she slowly lowered her hands, changing back into her original form in an instant, like the dwarf had never been there.

"I'm a shapeshifter. A changeling to be precise, never liked the name though." They explained, holding a hand up as is shifted from Vena's to what seemed to a tabaxi's or beastkin's, with yellow fur and sharp claws. "Almost anyone I've seen before, I can turn into."
Nicholas
*She blinked slowly, her face blank as the cogs in her head turned. Her confusion soon turned to excitement, her eyes almost sparkling in wonderment.*
"Woah- Really? That's incredible. I've never seen that before, it's so convincing. Anything you've seen, really? Could you turn into something bigger? Smaller? Does it have to be a real creature or could it be a picture? What about-"
*Kynia continued with this flurry of curiosity, quickly hopping onto the table and bobbing her head. There was little sound as she landed, as she was very light.*
William
Vena briefly wondered if she'd rather have had this devolve into a fight instead of an excited flurry of questions. Still, she endeavoured to answer each one as Kynia asked.

"Anything I've seen, that's at least humanoid, about small as a gnome- large as an orc, paintings work but tend to lead to mistakes-"

 "Woah there!" Vena exclaimed, pushing herself and her chair back a little as Kynia hopped onto the table. "What about-?"

She asked, awkwardly looking around the room at the few alarmed patrons around them before focusing on the harpy in front of her.
Nicholas
"Oh- Sorry. I forgot. That is a powerful ability, but I would expect it is troublesome at times. Is this your original form? Are shapeshifters a people? Is that why you do not have a tribe?"
*Her exuberance halted suddenly, looking wounded as she retreated to her seat. Her wings wrapped around her further, covering her mouth as she watched Vena with a hesitant excitement.*
William
"It's- confusing more than anything, might sound a bit self loathing since it's something I'm sure a lot of people would love to be able to do but it's not like you *Become* The appearance you're taking, even if you look like it." Vena addmited with a sigh before realizing she was talking to a complete stranger about the type of stuff she usually makes a point of keeping to herself. It seems Kynia's excitable personality was somewhat disarming. "Nevermind, that doesn't make sense- I'm just talking nonsense."

"This is my original form, or at least as much as possible and when it comes to changelings its pretty rare to see, so count yourself lucky." Vena chuckled, giving Kynia a sly wink before changing shape into the inn's clerk. "For all you know anyone you've met could be one of us, and yeah- there are multiple. Never met another though."

"I don't think there's such thing as a 'changeling' tribe though, and my old 'tribe' weren't good people so I reckon I'm better off without."
Nicholas
*The harpy slowly unfurled her wings, allowing herself to become enraptured in the conversation again. She cooed sadly as Vena opened up, nodding gently.*
"Is it hard to find people who understand? It is hard to find people who will listen, especially in these lands. The humans are very guarded. But I am always me, you can be anyone. That would be scary to find out, if my people were slow to trust others."
*Her musings were cut short, trilling bashfully and lowered her head. While Kynia couldn't fully understand, she knew there were those who were suspicious of demi-humans - her journeys had not been without strife from the city folk, after all. But there were aspects she would never understand, so she bit her tongue before she said something foolish.*

*Again she gasped in wonder, though managed to subdue her reaction as she bounced in her seat. Vena's remark on her tribe perturbed her however, pouting slightly and shaking her head.*
"...Was it a family, you were part of? Not all families are kind, as I have seen. Some do not treat their young very well. They would be foolish if they did, you are a kind person."
William
"Doesn't seem like you have it any easier though, she-" Vena paused to point at herself, like pointing at an image of the innkeeper. "Seemed a little weary about you staying here. Nothing you got' to worry about, I'm sure but I doubt it's just this small village. I don't know about harpy culture but people do have a pretty good reason to be guarded though. I've found trust's too often not worth the comfort it brings."

Vena once again morphed back into themself, mostly to avoid an eventual reaction if she kept stealing the appearance of somebody still in the room.

"Not blood but sure, family. Just because I seem kind talking to you here doesn't mean I am though, Kynia. You seem sweet to me but I'm sure many others have seen you in a different light, judging my that blade you keep at hand."
Nicholas
"As I mentioned, the Western harpies are more territorial. It is hard for humans to tell the difference, at least at first."
*Kynia seemed unfazed by this acknowledgement, as this wasn't the first harsh reception she'd recieved. Her wings unfurled from around her waist, displaying the insides of her span - revealing the glittering blue and white feathers along the upper band of flight feathers.*
"These are unique to my flock, and I have the most of any Faeplume in a long time," *She explained with a flick of her chin, pride written all over her beaming face.*

*She perked up once more as Vena shifted back, still in awe of her ability despite the caveats she'd laid out. Her wings furled again, the harpy sitting down and glancing towards the kitchen.*
"No-one is always one thing, it is true. I am not always chieftain of my flock, nor am I always the only harpy in Ostia. You are kind to me now, and maybe you won't be in the future. But you could have taken advantage, especially with your abilities. You did not, so that means you are a kind person to me."
*It was only for a moment, but the harpy's presence seemed to grow. Behind her bright expression, a wisdom flickered, her smile far older than her size would initially suggest.*
"You are right to be careful. But kindness is always repaid by the kind."
William
Mesmerized by the display, Vena found themselves leaning forward, staring at Kynia and imagining the harpy flying through the air with her feathers on display, glistening in the sky. They quickly came back out of their fantasy as Kynia continued speaking however, wishing they had the chance to see such a display in person.

"They're beautiful, really. Never seen a pattern like it." They said, clearly genuine. "I reckon a flock of harpy's flying overhead has to be a pretty remarkable thing to see."

"Wise words and you know- I'm not sure I'd have it any other way. People are interesting because they're more than just the sum of their parts- always overcoming circumstance and all that." Vena remarked, resting her head on her palm as she sighed and looked out the window at the falling snow. She didn't agree with Kynia's last remark but figured it was best to keep that to herself, far too many times had Vena seen the kind exploited while the unkind prevailed- one of the few perspectives left within in Vena that allowed them to steal and lie while remaining as guilt-free as possible.

"Did you ever say where you were heading, or why you're headed there? Must be important if it demands the attention of a chieftain and disapproved of- if you're going alone."
Nicholas
*The harpy nodded in approval, both to Vena's agreement and her praise of her plumage. Her expression bordered on smug, but her jubilance seemed to take over quickly enough.*
"There are so many fascinating people, I can't wait to meet them all.," *She chirped, folding her wings to her sides as she flicked her gaze about impatiently.*
"Where is this drink you mentioned- Oh, I did not. It is very dire. It is also a long story, do you wish to hear it?"
*There was a graveness to her words, the carefree attitude melting away for another moment more as she glowered a the table.*
William
"Meeting people's fun and all but be careful, alright? Not that I think anyone needs to worry over you, 'seem to have things handled just fine." Vena said, subtly pointing behind Kynia as they asked about the drinks. "Right on time."

The same clerk as before, seemingly the innkeeper approached from behind the harpy and set down two ceramic mugs of spiced wine on the table as she gave Vena a mean glare, likely because of the changeling stealing her appearance just earlier. They really had been lucky enough to find a small village without too much suspicion of outsiders, or at least enough fear of them to avoid kicking a mischievous (and often somewhat annoying, as the innkeeper had already very well found out from having to put up with Vena for a week.) shapeshifter out the second they wandered in.

"Thanks~" Vena winked at the innkeeper, ignoring her obvious annoyance before turning their attention back to Kynia. "I like a good long story, so long as you don't mind telling it."
Nicholas
"I shall do so. Our people have been warned by the caretakers not to trust too easily, so I have been more careful."
*Despite the determination behind her words, it was clear she barely understood what was asked of her by the elves. Her lack of caution during her initial meeting with Vena was evidence enough.*

"Oh, thank you," *She chirped to the clerk, who glanced to her with another bout of confusion.*

"...Cause no trouble, harpy. There are stories about your kind in these mountains."
*She muttered, shaking her head and walking away swiftly. There was a pause, the harpy forestalling her reaction as she processed this response. But instead of a negative one, her face brightened; she began to sing quietly in delight.*

"The rumours were true! My journey hasn't been for nought... This is good, very good." 
*She nodded quickly, beaming and rubbing her chin. Her wing feathers bristled, a pensive state falling over her momentarily. It was broken once she recognised Vena's assent to an explanation, resting her little talons on the table. She stared at the mug as she spoke, her perplexed expression not matching her serious tone.*
"Then I shall tell you. As I have said, I am chieftain of the Faeplume. My people are unique amongst the harpy flocks, as our seer and leader are one in the same. When given time and focus, I can commune with the spirits of the land to gain wisdom."
*She picked up the mug tentatively, her talons tapping at it as the warmth pierced through her hands. The harpy sipped, shivering from the tart and smoky flavour.* 
"But my last communion was nothing celebratory, as I was warned of a Calamity that will befall all our peoples — not just the harpies, but all beastfolk. I left on a journey, to find the harpy tribes and confirm these stories."
William
"Caretakers?" Vena asked, despite already having a good guess at what Kynia was referring to. She had some experience with beastfolk that lived in the wild and they usually had some sort of contact with an external druid or the like who offered their help to a tribe. Vena had never actually been close enough to any of these communities to know if this was true, however.

As the harpy paused, Vena half-stood up, clearly about to shout after the clerk and say what she thought about the unwanted comments. At least until Kynia seemed unusually excited, leading to the changeling simmering down as they looked over to Kynia in confusion.

*'Commune with the spirits of the land- not sure I'll ever quite understand magic.'* Vena thought while Kynia continued her story, wondering what such an act looked like. The closest she'd been to anything magical aside from her own race were firebolts that happened to hit their mark while the thief attempted to run away.

"*Calamity*? And it's supposed to befall all beastfolk?" They repeated, trying their best to hide the skeptical tone. This story was no different than any old common street urchin soothsayer's tale to them, even if Vena didn't want to see Kynia like that. "What are we talking here? Forest fire, plague, blight?"
Nicholas
"I do not know. Only in recent decades have I begun speaking to the breadth of our ancestors, so my interpretations are surface-level... An issue with our unique situation, to be sure. Most seers play their role the day they can speak, guided by their chieftain."
*The harpy sighed, taking small sips of the drink as she continued her explanation. Her gaze was locked on the mug, her brow arched in a mix of concern and concentration.*

"I must confirm that these visions are as I've interpreted them, but that can only be done through the other harpy flocks. Only the smallest flocks do not have a seer, and they look to the larger tribes for guidance. So far I have spoken to one, but their vision is clouded after their years under the humans' thumb... I worry I will not find the answer."
*There was a sadness to her voice, her mind filled with the alternatives that may have resolved this situation faster. She looked to the closest window, peering out at the flurry of snow.*
"With the rumours that gather in these mountains, I'd hoped to find one of the larger flocks. The more isolated tribes are better attuned to the ancestors..."
William
"I suppose this sort of divination stuff is always pretty vague, isn't it?" Vena said somewhat sarcastically as she took a long sip out of her mug, sighing as the mulled wine immediately warmed her up. Hopefully some more would also warm her mind to the idea of spirits foretelling a doomsday for beastfolk and only beastfolk. Divination wasn't an easy magic to trust, not as real as teleporting across a room or summoning a plate full of food from thin air.

"Seems like you're close, how'd you know these other harpy's are going to be as nice as you though? The innkeeper's heard 'stories' but those usually aren't good when someone puts it like that. For all you know these harpies could be a band of raiders, killers- maybe even worse."

Vena felt a little guilty with how upfront she'd been with her pessimism but she found it very hard to believe that harpies lacked the same inter-conflicts any other race had.

"Sorry- I realize saying all that doesn't really help when you *Have* To find them regardless. Just be careful, yeah?"
Nicholas
"Ordinarily, it is not so. The spirits speak directly to us, so conversation is direct - if not a touch blunt."
*Her tone flattened as her expression did the same, eyes glazing over as she recalled the myriad lectures she'd recieved from great-great-great-grandmothers and similar.* "But to commune with so many ancestors at once is... Troublesome."

*The mention of harpy disposition was met with a shake of her head, Kynia smiling brightly in her refutation.*
"There will be none of that, at least the killing or worse. Despite how I may look to your folk, I have the chieftain's markings upon my plumage," *She reassured, shifting to better display her right wing; pointing with a talon to the odd discolouration near her shoulder feathers.* "Even their lowest caste scouts will recognise this. But this brings me concern, on whether to bring a companion... It may be dangerous for them..."
*Kynia pondered this deeply, worry creasing her brow as she tapped her chin. 

The thought seemed to dissipate quickly however, her attention returning to Vena with renewed interest.*
"I shall do so, thank you. I am interested in what brings you to these mountains, Vena. You wander alone, yes? Is there something you are looking for here?"
William
"Sounds- not great, actually. I never get the experience but from what I've heard most people wouldn't appreciate on-demand judgement from their 'ancestors', however far back that goes." Vena chuckled, even if Kynia's aura was far from cheery about it. She must have heard something deeply unsettling to have taken such a warning completely serious, even if the spirits had been so vague. Vena briefly thought 'At least it doesn't affect me...' before catching and quickly rearing in her selfish side as she remembered the many beastfolk who had done right by her, even if she wasn't the type to stick around long.

At the mention of bringing a companion, Vena would be lying if she said she wasn't a little tempted to offer herself. She did crave some excitement in her life after a weeks worth of boring downtime but maybe throwing oneself straight into a metaphorical hornet's nest and literal harpy's nest wasn't the best idea.

"Surely somebody'd be pretty safe in such important company, right? Would be a pretty bold move to harm a *Chieftain*'s companion." She remarked, wondering if copying such a mark could be useful should she ever run into other harpy's. 

"Ah, *Me*" The changeling seemed disappointed at the conversation turning to her but she obliged and answered Kynia's questions. "To be frank, it's not as interesting a journey as yours. The truth is I barely know where I'm heading, just- can't stand being in the same place so long. I'm not really the settling down kinda' person. Much prefer the faster and coincidently more dangerous life."

"I figure, everybody's staying holed up in their towns, in their villages, they're not actually making any use of their life. I just want to be able to say I did and maybe make a difference while I'm at it."
Nicholas
*Kynia nodded in approval, understanding Vena's sentiment quite well.*
"There are many in my flock who prefer our own company, who do not like speaking with the other tribes. The only ones they tolerate are the caretakers, for they aid us in many ways. It is a shame..."
*She trilled sadly, the words of warning she recieved from the elders of her flock before her journey dancing in the back of her mind. Her neck feathers bristled as she retreated into them, glowering at the table for a moment. 

She took another sip, again shivering at the taste, though smiling as the flavour grew on her.*
"Wandering is fun, I have found my journey to be filled with lots of interesting things. But I have found few friends, so far. When you move around, people seem to forget easily..."
William
"You don't seem like that, which I suppose is befitting a chieftan but I'd go as far to say that despite the danger and peril- you might even be a little excited to meet outsiders." Vena teased, fairly confident in her deduction considering Kynia hadn't displayed any distrust towards the changeling while revealing their purpose here, at least aside from the shock of Vena's first shapeshift infront of her. " 'Course I don't know you. Maybe you're just really polite, or I'm just great company."

"I try to remember people, I think its important. Might just be because I want to be remembered and-" They pause, briefly imagining a few memories of her 'work'- sneaking by people, regrettably being close enough to hear the anguish when someone finds their pockets empty or the worst of it all- tricking somebody while wearing the appearance of another, experiencing true trust in *Them* But not directed at *Them*. "What I do doesn't exactly leave me in the position for that, or at least to be remembered fondly. I don't want to talk about it though, so I wouldn't bother asking unless you're a fan of vague answers. Which from what you've told me, I'm guessing you're not."
Nicholas
"Perhaps so... We see few, it is always nice to see new faces."
*She admitted, a warmth colouring her cheeks. The harpy beamed at Vena's waver of confidence, chirping happily.*
"I would say the latter, Vena. I am told I can be- Blunt? But you have treated me well despite that. That makes you the best company, for me."

*Kynia cocked her head at her answer, the implications clearly missing her entirely.*
"I do not think I am, no. But I trust your reasons, so I will not push. I hope you find more to remember you fondly, besides me."
*She drained the last of her wine, her neck disappearing into her ruffles as she shivered once more - this drink was too much for her all at once, it seemed. Her disposition hardened once more, a tentative thread meeting her words.*
"If you are wandering, maybe you could join me? I would not put you in danger, of course. You would be free to leave if the situation became dangerous. There will be payment as well. I expect I will not find many other willing travellers here..."
William
"And I'm not about to run out of new faces anytime soon." Vena joked, tempted to shapeshift again but ultimately dissuaded by how much attention the two were already drawing. Instead she took a long drink of her wine, finishing the last half of it in one go before replying. "I like blunt- being it never did me any favours though. I'm not about to change because of a little adversity, though."

" 'preciate it." The rogue said quietly, glad that Kynia wasn't pushing- especially after the next offer. Maybe Kynia trusted Vena but even at that, the harpy was surely smart enough to steer clear of someone like Vena when it came to jobs that require some more delicate handling. So long as she simply seemed like a capable traveller or simply someone strong enough to prove more useful than the average villager? Then they could remain friends, and hopefully end up separated long before Vena had to reveal her worse side.

Despite already making up her mind, the changeling paused before replying- a little bit of tension never hurt anyone, after all.

"Sure- but if you're paying me then I'm not running soon as it gets dangerous, after all that's why I'm coming in the first place, right?"
Nicholas
*The tension seemed to rattle the little harpy, her body bracing as if ready for a charging beast. The anxiety in her form was blown away with Vena's assent, smiling broadly and bouncing in her seat.*

"Most excellent! This will go well, I think. But yes, I expect you to prioritise your safety, Vena. No matter how dangerous it gets between us, these harpies and I are kin — they will not harm me without consequence from within their flock."
*Her tone was grave, her age seeping in as she seemed to put her foot down on this matter. It quickly melted into consternation, tapping a talon against her lips.*

"Hm... With your ability, it may be more useful for you to take a guise. How much can you change the features you copy?"
William
Kynia's overly excited reaction to Vena agreeing earned a small giggle out of the changeling. They wondered if all harpies were as obvious with their emotions as she was. It would be refreshing if they were, after spending so long around defensive villagers. 

"Yes Ma'am." Vena replied sarcastically, already sure that Kynia's self sacrificing demeanour wouldn't stop them from stepping in if these harpies tried to threaten her.

"I *Can* Change some things, like colours-" Vena said as she shapeshifted into the same dwarven lady as before, this time with mismatching blonde hair. "And I can partially transform, to some extent-" She continued, reverting to her original form before changing her hand to match Kynia's, talons and all along with a couple feathers.

"But that's the extent of originality. If I'm to become a harpy and don't have a painting or something of another, the best I can do is be you with some slight differences."
Nicholas
*Kynia's head bobbed as she listened, pausing briefly to narrow her eyes at Vena's sarcastic assent, but returning to her deep thought soon after. While some of the wonderment remained, the harpy seemed to be scrutinising the changeling's alternative forms more closely, especially studying the partial shift.*

"Hmm... A painting...?"
*The cogs in her head turned slowly, but an idea soon struck her. Her back straightened as she met Vena's eyes once more, fumbling over her little pack as something was fished out. She set the item on the table with a heavy clack, the worn metal still boasting some heft.*
"Take a look at the picture in this locket. Perhaps you can take some features from this form."
William
Vena displayed her imitation of Kynia's feather's as proudly as the harpy did, allowing her to study them as much as she wanted. While the body attached was distinctly Vena's, Kynia wouldn't find a single flaw in the talons they had replicated- it seemed so long as they had an appropriately well studied source the transformation was perfect in every way.

"Someone special in here?" Vena asked as they reached to pickup the locket, inspecting the exterior in their hands for a moment before flicking it open.

The changeling couldn't help but wonder if Kynia had considered that as much as she could effortlessly appear like a harpy, Vena would still have to put on an act to really *Seem* Like one. Though in their experience most people tend to trust their eyes more than their gut, something that has allowed them to get out of situations that in hindsight would've made it very obvious they were not what they appeared to be.
Nicholas
*The locket was large enough to fill the harpy's whole talon, the image inside large enough to boast some detail. Depicted inside was a portrait of a woman, clearly harpy in features, though taller and more shapely than Kynia. A warm, maternal smile rested on her face, her large eyes lowered demurely. The resemblance was clear, Kynia making this crystally so.*
"My mother, long passed. It was in my fourth decade that we lost her, so memory of her rests only within my flock. I do not know how much of one's form you can change, but this may assist you in that."
William
Vena had expected such a locket to have someone dear's, and likely deceased's picture inside but still frowned; not out of sympathy, but out of worry. She had been asked many times before to take the form of someone's late family or partner, if not for the purposes of harpy-diplomacy but the few times she obliged led to very awkward consoling amid some stranger's emotion breakdown. 

Trusting Kynia however, Vena took a couple moments to stare at both the picture inside the locket and Kynia before pausing.

"Er- The wings, do you have holes in the back of your shirt?" They asked, glad they had realized before attempting to shapeshift. "I would just take mine off but it's not like we're alone here. 'Could try it without but they're pretty important, wouldn't want to get it wrong."
Nicholas
*The question confused the harpy, but stories of angels and their physiology floated to her mind's surface to explain Vena's query. The cloak that draped around Kynia was slipped from her shoulders, revealing the layers of thick cloth wrappings that covered her in piecemeal. Her feathers obscured the rest of her body, fluffy down filling in the gaps between. Her wings unfurled, the loss of the cloak presenting how they connected to her torso - her arms and wings were one, small talons on her wingtips that flexed like hands.*
"No holes, we do not wear clothing of that style. It would be no issue if you wished to, but be careful not to tear the arms with your wings."
William
"Oh!" Vena said, stuck between deciding if she should now be excited to experience such unfamiliar biology or embarrassed at their assumption. Favouring the former, they excitedly stood up and took of their coat before moving to Kynia's side, somewhat invasively studying her. "Okay, shouldn't be a problem now."

Next, Vena took off their tunic, revealing another sleeveless layer below. The changeling was immediately reminded just how cold it was but hoped that the feathers would at least somewhat alleviate it.

Finally Vena shapeshifted. Like the many times before there was no sign of transformation, Kynia would simply find that the changeling that had once stood before her was now a female harpy.

Vena had copied all of Kynia's mother's features that were present in the photo however it was clear she had to use Kynia to fill in the rest- though the similarities turned out to fit in quite well considering the two were related.

"How do I look...?" Vena asked nervously, hoping that she hadn't forgotten something embarassingly important.
Nicholas
*She flexed her arms to display as much of her wingspan as possible, seeming not to mind the changeling's proximity. On the contrary, the gratitude she felt for Vena's attention to detail curled her lips noticeably enough. The cloak would drape over her once she stepped away, Kynia blinking a few times to acclimate.*

"...You look just like her. It is very good."
*The harpy's voice weighed heavy as she looked over Vena's new form, talons pressed to her chest as she approached slowly. Kynia sweeped around her in a circle, examining her in complete silence for a minute or so. Once she returned to face her, she smiled broadly - a mix of nostalgia and sorrow colouring her features.*
"Yes. Just like her. This will do fine, I think. You will not need to speak, I do not think - chieftains often travel with attendants, who are often relatives. The resemblance will be in our favour... How do the wings feel? I don't know how much you can feel them..."
William
Rather than risk saying the wrong thing, Vena remained silent as Kynia inspected them, instead following the harpy's gaze and taking in their own new form. While the changeling had done it many times before, taking an unfamiliar form always had a short learning curve as they grappled with not only the new body but all of the sensation that came along with it- afterall Vena's abilities weren't just skin deep, she was as much of a harpy as Kynia.

"I feel a lot lighter and the wings are-" Vena paused to lift her arms up, clearly marvelling as the wings stretched out in turn. "Strange, they catch a lot of cold air..."

Once Kynia had finished studying her, Vena took a single step towards her chair before tumbling forward, barely catching herself on the table, digging into the wood with her talons while letting out a flurry of panicked chirps.

"New feet." Vena said with a deep sigh, wondering if the chirps had really come from her or Kynia. "Gonna take a second to get used to."
Nicholas
"Elder harpies will have less and less down feathers in-between, you will need to keep the insides covered for the most part. You will fly well, however."
*Kynia chirruped, a seam of novelty presenting itself from advising someone on how to use a harpy's body. To demonstrate this, she unfurled her wings and drew them around herself, folding one wingtip over the other. The impression was given that she wore two cloaks, one far thicker than the other.*

"Ah!- You will spread your weight out more, and be careful not to press your talons into the floor! It will make you slip."
*Panic spurred Kynia forwards as Vena stumbled, partly from worry; partly from the sight of her mother almost falling over. It dissipated as she giggled softly, offering her arms to assist Vena's first few steps.*
William
Vena matched Kynia's giggle as she held the harpy's arm and took a couple experimental steps, seemingly getting the hang of it pretty quickly even if her fall left Vena with a embarrassed flush of red on her face. While she was fairly open about her abilities, this was the first time she'd ever shapeshifted into something so new in the presence of not only one person but an entire inn (if not also a very empty inn) of onlookers, who were clearly to trying to remain subtle and failing as they watched the two.

"*Fly?*" Vena said, glaring at Kynia with wide eyes. It was a scary, if not incredibly alluring possibility- barely being able to walk didn't bode well for her other harpy-related abilities however. "I don't know, I'm not exactly an expert at this Kynia. Not lookin' to break a couple bones jumping off some roof."

As she spoke Vena experimented with what Kynia had shown her just before she fell, wrapping her wings around herself as if they were a cloak. She immediately felt much warmer, letting out a small happy chirp. 

"Those noises you kept making weren't all on purpose, huh? I guess it's cute- and not as bad a betrayer of mood as a tail."
Nicholas
*The harpy's cheery disposition was touch more serene than before, relishing in this new experience as she took on a mentor's role. Vena's incredulity was met with a blank stare, Kynia tilting her head slightly.*

"Hm? You would not break bones, harpies are very light. Even young harpies pick it up very quickly, and you are an adult - you would be fine."
*She spoke of it very nonchalantly, though her actual experience with teaching fledgelings was questionable at best. The series of chirps were met by her own, Kynia almost bouncing with her excitement.*
"Yes, very much so! There is much to glean from our songs, which I can teach you in part. Your song is very pretty, Vena."
William
"I'll trust you, even if it seems pretty unbelievable that I would be able to fly just because of these." Vena stretched her arms outwards in a pose much more natural for a human looking at their palms than a harpy looking at their wings. Uses aside, she couldn't help but remark on the beauty of them. Kynia had said these feathers were unique but did that mean other harpies would pale in comparison to this? Or did they all have different, but equally beautiful feather? "I've grown to love my own appearance, unlike many of my kind- but I have to admit, it's nice to be so colourful even if I usually don't like to draw the attention forms like this bring."

Even if she should know better by now, Kynia's excitement and offers to teach Vena about their culture continued to surprise her. She had to assume that Kynia was unlike most of her kind, judging by how little information on harpies seemed to exist.

"Thanks." Vena replied shyly, tempted to try make a chirp of her own volition before deciding against likely embarassing herself. "If you're really willing to teach me I'd love to learn. Do harpies really sing? Like birds? Never really been the best at the human version..."
Nicholas
"I will show you during our journey, how easy a harpy flies."
*She puffed out her chest in her pride, nodding decisively as she rested her hands on her hips. It quickly shifted to another bout of joy, hopping closer and gently running her talons along Vena's plumage.*
"You've made a beautiful plumage, Vena. I would not be surprised if your original form's beauty translates directly, I've not seen such feathers in quite some time."
*Kynia was full of praise, twittering out a meandering birdsong in response to the changeling's question.*
"The smaller kinds do, our sort and some of the forest harpies. The mountain harpies have great and powerful cries, which have their own beauty - perhaps not to the layman's ears, though. And I do not believe that."
William
"So long as you go first." Vena half-joked, hoping being pushed off a cliff or the like wasn't in her future.

The changeling allowed Kynia to feel her feathers, awkwardly standing tall as they did in a poor imitation of how the harpy proudly displayed themselves. Vena wasn't able to keep the cold facade as soon as Kynia implied their real form was as beautiful, immediately earning an embarrassingly cheery chirp from Vena.

"Come on, you're making me blush- I don't do well with praise, never know what to say back."

"And you'd better believe it, not unless you want proof after I've had a little too much to drink. Maybe I can learn a couple harmonic chirps while I'm like this though- can't begin to imagine how I could sound like you just did, though."

"Speaking of sounding like you, anything real' important I should know before trying to pretend I'm a harpy? I can take most of my ques from you Kynia, but I don't want to mess up and ruin this meeting with these other harpies- I know it's important."
Nicholas
"I would do so, yes."
*Kynia chimed back flatly, removing her hands and trotting back a few steps. She brightened at Vena's birdsong, seeming to glean more meaning from the sound than any speech.*
"You don't? Most give praise to share their happiness, it is a reward on its own." *She folded her arms and hummed approvingly, shifting to ponder her query.*
"Important? Hm... It depends on what you wish to know. I can tell you of our physical forms, and parts of our culture. But the flocks are long separated, our customs are all different. I suppose some basics will be..." 

*The harpy paced around Vena once, returning to her front with a far sharper expression.*
"Eye contact is a powerful thing for our kind. Only equals and challengers are met by eye, so avoid it with anyone who isn't clearly a servant or a worker. Soldiers will make eye contact almost constantly in challenge, so do not worry about etiquette with them."

*She then displayed the insides of her wings once more, the glimmering feathers held flat against her span.*
"The insides of one's wings are for intimidation and ceremony. Greetings to elders and chieftains are given with them turned outwards, accompanying a bow. Lower castes only recieve a bow."
*Following her explanation, the bow was demonstrated. There was a degree of elegance the little harpy didn't seem capable of, yet she sweeped her arms with the grace of a noble.*
"I would suggest you try it, if only to get used to the feeling."
William
"Guess I don't have much practice, don't take this as me feeling sorry for myself but it isn't very often a blank palette without so much as irises is called beautiful." Vena said somewhat spitefully, contradicting her last statement about growing to love her appearance- clearly some insecurity still lay deep inside the changeling, even if they weren't likely to admit it. She didn't let the feeling last though, instead focusing on Kynia's briefing.

While Vena wished she did it more often from a tourist's perspective, learning the cultures of people she planned to imitate had to be her least favourite part of it. Back when she had taken herself a little less seriously, Vena had found out first had just how violently someone can react when their very perception of the world is thrown into question by a mischievous shapeshifter and learned that even if most were ignorant, just the slightest combination of slip-ups could lead to suspicion or worse.

"Guess that means I shouldn't be making eye contact with you right now?" Vena smirked, seemingly making it at a point to continue her direct eye contact. "I'll cut it out when we're around other harpies but for now you're just going to have to deal with a little insubordination from your loyal *Attendant*, whatever that is."

"Got it, my liege~" Vena teased before confidently stepping forward and matching the bow Kynia had down with surprising accuracy. "Might not be a singer but I'm a pretty good dancer, matching someone's movements must come naturally with a body made for imitation."
Nicholas
"You are very elegant, Vena."
*Kynia replied simply, chirping quietly and smiling.* "If none have said this to you yet, they will in time. I believe this wholly."
*Perhaps the harpy was naive on how others treated Vena, but she seemed to be earnest. Her question about eye contact was met with a few steps taken closer, Kynia making a point to maintain her gaze.*
"As my attendant, you can look me in the eye. You will be considered an extension of my authority, not a subject of it. Only those outside our flock will need to worry about meeting my eyes - you will see how the flocks discipline those who step out of line... But you will be safe, the most they can do is snap at you."
*There was a moment's anxiety in her last statement, worried that she had implied Vena might be harmed during this visit.*
"It might be a lot to keep in mind, but this is safer than bringing an outsider. I will not allow them to touch you, Vena. I promise you that."

*The sound of flapping wings met the changeling as she straightened, Kynia attempting to clap with her talons - her wings getting in the way, even as they were furled. Disappointment darkened her features, glaring at her hands as if they had failed her. But exuberance quickly overtook this, nodding happily.*
"That was excellent, Vena. I would love to see your dancing, we have very little of the sort in our flock. Some of the larger harpy tribes dance instead of sing, we may see some soon."
William
"And you're very sweet, feathers but I think the only one competiting for the 'elegant' title here is you." Vena smiled, seemingly experimenting with nicknames for the harpy. 'Feathers' might be a little on the nose but it worked while the two were the only harpies in the room. "I'll take it though, I suppose elegance has many forms."

As Kynia stepped towards Vena, maintaining eye contact, the changeling was surprised to find themselves genuinely intimidated. Perhaps the Chieftan did have the authority to back up such an important title after all- or some strange ingrained harpy instinct towards eye contact happened to match culture.

*'I'll see how the flocks 'discipline' those who step out of line.'* Vena nervously repeated in her head, immediately imagining some of the worst cases possible. Kynia's reassurance didn't help ease her nerves much either.

"You don't have to worry about me, I can handle myself- even if that means taking some weird harpy punishment to keep my cover. Can't be that bad, right?" Vena said hopefully, unsure if she wanted the question to be answered or not. "Just- Don't stick your neck out for me. "

The harpy's sad attempt at a clap earned a small giggle from Vena before she attempted the exact same thing- managing to get a little closer 

"Hopefully they've got similar styles as everyone else, it's no fun if I don't get to spin anyone 'round."

"You don't actually know where these harpies are yet though, do you?"
Nicholas
*The compliment caught Kynia off-guard, already caught up in Vena's demonstrations. She trilled quietly, shrinking slightly and trotting a few paces away.*
"Ah- This is not true... But I will accept your praise, thank you Vena."

*She turned back and flashed a bright smile, the blush still reddening her cheeks. There was a pause as the changeling spoke of 'harpy punishment', a graveness falling over her eyes.*
"...We shall see. I will do my best to keep the situation under control. If we tread carefully, it will not come to that."

"As for where... Yes, I do not know. They will be deep in the mountains, their roosts most likely built into the peaks themselves. The stories I have heard are of raiders along a few named paths, which will narrow down our search."
William
Vena may not be as versed in birdsong but even she could tell that the small compliment had a surprising effect on Kynia. She had expected the Chieftain to have received more than their fair share but maybe that wasn't the case after all. She silently planned to exploit this- wondering in the back of her mind if she was just reframing a good deed as some mischievous act to appease herself.

Kynia not being blunt about harpy's methods of punishment definitely ruined any chances of Vena reassuring herself. She didn't even attempt to think about how they might react if they found out Vena was not one of them.

"Walking up mountain trails in this cold, looking for harpy raiders isn't exactly as exciting as witnessing as exploring a whole nest of them but all excitement needs a lil' downtime beforehand." Vena said, wondering if looking for the harpies might actually turn out to be the most exciting part. If the two of them did just end up playing nice and doing what Kynia came here to do, there was a chance Vena would simply get the thrilling job of standing next to the Chieftain while they talked for hours before politely leaving.

"And you know- if it did go bad and they aren't willing to talk to you... I could always just ask as someone they'd trust a little more." If this were Vena's job, that would've been her immediate approach but considering she was trying to hide her less respectable tendencies, she simply passed it off as if she was unsure about such a plan herself.
Nicholas
"It will give us time to practice your mannerisms. Repetition is the best teacher," *She sung encouragingly, flapping her wings as if to imply their practice would include that activity as well. But it wasn't clear; the little harpy had already moved on. Vena's implication was quickly picked up, Kynia pressing a curled talon to her lips in thought.*
"Hm... Perhaps, but it would be a delicate thing. We know little of how their flock functions, if the seer would be isolated enough to fool our way in. I would rather keep that as a last resort, as cooperation with the chieftain is preferable."

*She trotted back over to their table, plopping down in her seat once more and staring into her mug. As if on que, her stomach growled loudly.*
"Uoh... Perhaps some food is a good idea, after that excitement. I would like to leave as soon as the snow dies down, I expect their raiders will be doing the same."
William
Vena was pleasantly surprised (and confusingly, even to her, disappointed) that Kynia had entertained her idea. Perhaps the harpy was much more devious than they let on.

"Jus' letting you know its a possibility, hopefully this'll end up as nothing more than a nice chit-chat over whatever likely foul tasting teas they make up in those mountains." Vena said as she followed Kynia to the table, remaining standing to the side as she looked at her discarded shirt and coat, frowning. The feathers may be nice but she definitely envied the harpy's additional layers.

"Won't hear any objections from me, I'm was just about ready to leave this village even if it were still snowing."

"She'll make something for you" Vena pointed over to the clerk before leaning closer to Kynia and whispering. "But I'll warn you now, it *Won't* Be good."
Hope
*The clerk in question had been watching them for a time, her expression slowly coming down from utter bewilderment. She'd just watched Vena shapeshift into a harpy, which had left her questioning which of her forms was the original. For now she said nothing, eyes narrowed at them as Kynia glanced to her.*
Nicholas
*The harpy blinked a couple times, then looked back to Vena with a blankly.*
"Is she a bad cook? Or do you mean she will ruin the meal, on account of my ancestry?" *Kynia hummed the question, making her understanding of the situation clear enough. Before the changeling could reply, she was trotting over and speaking with the clerk with a far-too-cheery inflection. This seemed to be enough to catch her off-guard, responding airily in affirmation. Returning to the table, Kynia smiled and nodded happily.*
"She will bring us their dinner meal, though I do not know what it is. If it is insufficient, I have rations I acquired in Anduillan that we can use instead."
William
"Just a-" Vena started before sighing as the harpy rushed away. Hopefully the innkeeper had anything but a pie on the menu today- Vena had been stabbed, burnt and hurt in all manner of ways before but she could remember the taste of the first dinner she had here far better than all of those combined. It didn't help that the clerk seemed to like her a little bit more back then, forcing Vena to pretend it was nice as they stayed and chatted for far too long.

While Kynia spoke with the innkeeper, Vena secretly taunted them from behind the harpy- winking and displaying her wings until the much much polite harpy turned around and she quickly rushed back into an innocent pose.

"You're going to regret that but ya' can't say I didn't warn you. I do have a couple spices with me though, the real hot stuff. Assuming harpies can taste spice?"
Hope
*She almost snarled at Vena, snapping her head away and storming through the back door. Muffled shouting could be heard; some of the other patrons looked askance towards the noise, some towards the pair of harpies that clearly were the reason.*
Nicholas
"We can... I think. Spices are rare in our flock, only the herbs and flowers we could find amongst the hills are part of our cultural meals. Anything else was gifted by the caretakers, and they were very odd things."
*The harpy rocked left and right in her uncertainty, producing a strip of dried meat that she nibbled on between words.*
"We can still eat raw meat quite easily, but vegetables can be troublesome for the stomach..."
Hope
*It wouldn't take too long for their meals to arrive, the clerk dumping the bowls onto the tables - somehow managing not to spill any of the broth despite her negligence. It seemed to be a plain meat stew. No spices, not even any seasoning on the meat.*
William
*'She'll miss me when I'm gone.'* Vena arrogantly thought, chuckling to herself as the clerk stormed off. Maybe she was starting to push some limits but surely if they had put up with Vena for almost a week they'd manage a day or two more.

"You might not want to start with this then." Vena said, reaching into her jackets pocket and producing an plain brown pouch, filled with an intimidating mix of brightly coloured spices. "But considering I'm trying out wings for the first time, what's a harpy trying some proper spicy food~"

Clearly a challenge, one that Kynia would be wise to turn down. Vena has accumulated something of an obsession when it came to spices, always trying the hottest food she could find in whatever new cultures she found herself in.

"I'm still learning to like raw meat, probably a bad habit to pick up considering half of the digestive systems I can have might kill me if I eat something raw."

Vena immediately grimaced as two bowls of unappetising stew were set infront of the pair. Tentatively, she reached forward and gently shook the bowl- watching as the whole thing swayed like it was one entity.

"At least it's not a pie. Might even taste a little better than it looks..." She sighed, clearly scarred from past meals. "How's harpy food? I'm hoping worms aren't a delicacy or anything like that..."
Nicholas
*Kynia's interest was easily piqued by the spice pouch, her nose perking from the unfamiliar scent.*
"What is it? You said spices? What kind? Is it all spicy? I know some types are milder, do you have those too?"
*A flurry of questions flew from the harpy, eyes sparkling with renewed excitement. 

Vena's question regarding harpy food returned her attention to the bowl, furrowing her brow at its consistency.*
"This looks too solid. Has pie been worse?" *At first she asked, though quickly abandoned the train of thought as the answer dawned on her on its own.*
"Worms and insects are for birds, not harpies. We hunt bigger animals: Deer and moose and direwolves. Predator meat isn't as tasty... Too stringy."
William
"A surprisingly pleasant combination of two of the hottest spices I've encountered on my way here. I *Do* Have some milder stuff in my backpack upstairs but I'm running short and unlikely to get anymore unless I plan on circling back to Ostia. There's much worse 'nostalgia' waiting for me there than homely meals though."

Vena was tempted to insist that harpies were birds, if just to ruffle Kynia's feathers but she wasn't sure just how accidentally offensive that may be.

"It was *The* Worst."

"And I hear some insects don't taste as bad as they look, can't imagine the same about a direwolf though. Never been the best at hunting myself, even as something with all the instincts and senses for it. I suppose harpies probably go for a much more straight forward swoop-down approach though?"
Nicholas
"I wouldn't want to exhaust your supplies..."
*She cooed, growing more reserved at this information. She continued to stare at the bag, clearly very interested in how it would change the taste of this otherwise bland meal.*

"Yes, especially for harpies of our size. Hunting bands work in groups of at least five, since our prey can be larger than a single hunter. But our weapons make quicker work than talons."
*Her disposition shifted quickly, an analytical undertone to her words as her eyes stared off into the distance. At the mention of weapons, Kynia slipped her thin lance from under her wing; setting it on the table.*
William
"You can have some of these, nothing special about *This* Batch." Vena insisted, pushing the bag towards the harpy. "I'll warn you against though, it's hot. Really hot."

"I have to say I envy the whole tribe culture, hunting for the sole purpose of feeding everybody else instead of profit. It's nice, even if I'm not suited for it." Vena replied while inspecting Kynia's weapon, gently turning it over before leaning under the table and into her boots (which had been discarded before, a fact that was absolutely mentioned in text and need not be looked for in posts above this one.) .

From the two boots she produced an excessive four knives, two shaped for throwing and two other vastly different daggers, one incredibly sharp with a silver coating and what seemed to be Elven writing on the side and the other: steel, slightly duller and far older.

"And those are just the ones in my boots." Vena smirked, setting down the daggers. "I don't like being caught off guard- or unarmed."
Nicholas
*Kynia was quickly in awe of her array of weapons, tracing a talon along the Elven script.*
"This looks familiar. I think the caretakers had weapons like these, did you get it from a similar place?" *She asked quickly, only noticing the bag of spices after a minute of examining Vena's daggers. She picked up the burlap and inspected it, her nose screwing up from the intense scent. The bag was opened up, her talons used like a claw as she scooped out a small amount of the interior. Dropping it into her stew, she gave the mixture a stir; though only the colour changed significantly.*
"The big folk live very differently to us. I can tell there is more to their cultures, more history. But I prefer our way of living, there is less trouble this way."
William
"It's a parting gift from an old fling- a wood elf." Vena explained, idly spinning the dagger on its handle like a spinning top as she spoke. "She was sweet but I wanted to continue travelling and she had commitments where she was."

Vena elected not to include the part of the story where the two lovers stole the dagger from a nobel's carriage on their last night together. Maybe she'd expand on it once Kynia trusted her more- it is one of her go to stories when someone asks about her exploits.

Letting the dagger unceremoniously fall on its own, Vena took a very small pinch of spices (concerningly slightly smaller than what Kynia had took) and spread it over the stew.

"Trouble's fun sometimes. You oughta try living like 'the big folk'- ever been to a city? Maybe you wouldn't get treated great where I grew up but there's a whole lot more to get up to than in the woods or one of these tiny villages."
Nicholas
"Oh. That is sad, but also nice. I have heard a few stories from travelers about relationships like this, they say they were unhappy about it ending, but glad that it happened... I am often confused by these conversations."
*Kynia puzzled aloud, the topic seeming to be a fresh one for her. She chirped in surprise as the dagger clattered to the table, staring at it blankly and entirely missing the smaller amount Vena added to her dish. 

Vena's question snapped her attention back, tilting her head slightly.*
"I have been to a city, yes. My last search was in the mountains around Anduillan, I met a half-harpy there. She was very direct, but a kind person. The people there were very suspicious of me, but I managed to buy some things - supplies and the sort. They were very good."
*Her tone lightened despite her sub-par report of her last visit, trilling happily. Clearly her standards had not been set for how cities and towns operated.*
William
"Most relationships end eventually, you really do have to appreciate the good times over the bad- else you'll end up bitter and forget all the good." Vena quietly cooed, clearly spending a small moment remembering something pleasant before snapping back to reality. "I assume a Chieftan would have some sort of arranged marriage planned. Tribes are usually less wishy-washy about love, maybe harpies are different, though."

"I grew up in Ostia- only ever went to Anduillan once or twice though. Afraid to say the whole kingdom's like that, I tried to never let it get to me- never disguise myself as a human but it was pretty rough. Only thing I have to thank my old 'tribe' for is that they were the type that people didn't pick on haphazardly."
Nicholas
"Yes... It is true."
*Vena's phrasing seemed to summon up a memory, her tone flattening as her eyes wandered from the table. The distraction was brief however, giving a long and melodious twitter at her assumption.*
"Perhaps, in time. I am not so old as to require an heir... I do not know who would serve as my brood-father..."
*Kynia spoke more softly on this subject, her ruffles rising to cover her face as she concealed a small blush.*

*There was a sadness to her birdsong, taking the changeling's view on the rest of Ostia poorly.*
"That's a shame... They have so many things to see and do, I would have liked to partake more..."
William
"That is... About as blunt as I expected. 'Husband' or just 'Partner' comes off a little more romantic though, don'tcha think? To be frank, I'm never having kids- and I live far too dangerously to have to worry about ever getting a chance to change my mind." In contrast to Kynia, Vena seemed to believe herself very certain about what she wanted in the future. In reality, she had only ever experienced very quick but passionate relationships- always moving on before anything got too serious.

"You're tough; Maybe Ostia's not getting any friendlier but I'm sure you'd manage if you ever wanted to go again." Vena said, cooing softly as she remembered a few of the good parts of her childhood.

"Assuming we're not about to end up prey to a tribe of secretly cannibal harpies in the next couple days."
Nicholas
"Romance..."
*The harpy cooed dreamily, now distracted by something completely different. Again she blushed, snapping back to attention in a mild panic.*
"Ah- Y-you won't? I see... This is sad, I would enjoy meeting your little ones," *She chirped quietly, a little deflated by the fact - though how Kynia would even meet Vena's prospective family was a mystery, seeing as they were a wanderer.*

"I shall need to do so, eventually. There are places that report sightings of harpies, it is easier to look there than listen for rumours. And... I do not think that is likely... But we shall see."
*Her feathers bristled at the thought, as much as she denied the thought. Her attention returned to the meal, picking up her utensils and taking a mouthful. Her eyes clamped shut, her face warming considerably. Her wings unfurled and beat slowly, as if to cool the air around her face. She eventually swallowed, panting and shaking her head slowly.*
"Ancestors... It is very spicy..."
William
Vena quietly giggled as she watched the harpy retreat into their imagination at the mere mention of romance. 

"I could alwags meet your future kids though. Maybe I'll show up as the attendant to an important Chieftan from another tribe, I'll be pretty good at playing harpy by then, you might not even realize." Vena teased, wondering if she was going to accidently leave a slight bit of distrust in the harpies Kynia meets from here on out. "You oughta' write where your tribe is on a map for me, assuming you don't move too much."

"I would give you some pointers but I reckon anywhere I used to go and anyone I used to know wouldn't be very welcoming." Vena said as she finally gathered the strength to try the stew- cooing quietly as the spices managed to cover up the normally bland flavour.

"As adorable that reaction is, don't feel like you have to finish it. Then again *I* Am working with the same taste as you, so you won't have any good excuses if I finish it and you don't, feathers~"
Nicholas
"...Oh, you could do that. I would hope for you to reveal yourself at some point, your welcome would be great."
*The true extent of Vena's powers seemed to dawn on the harpy for the first time, her expression blanking as her mind spiralled into the possibilities. She met her avian eyes once more, suddenly beaming and chirping happily.*
"I shall do this, once we find one. Do you have a map? Most travelers have a few."

*Kynia quickly shook her head, taking another spoonful and shoveling it into her mouth. Her face reddened once more, but her reaction was slightly more subdued. Her swallow was less laboured, breathing out slowly.*
"I can eat this, yes. It is a nice flavour, if very intense. Where did you get these, Vena?"
William
"Don't worry, I'm not looking to trick you. 'Course some might say it's in my nature though, so who knows if I'll be able to resist." Harpy's might be obvious with their emotions but Vena noticed that didn't mean they were predictable. It almost seemed like Kynia's default was (literally) chirpy, and every other mood passed as quick as it came.

"I've got a couple maps upstairs, all pretty shoddy but I'm sure you'll be able to figure out where you live on one of 'em. Oh- but check out this," Vena said, suddenly reverting back to her own form. She stuck her arm out across the table, displaying her wrist as a black tattoo of a rough map of Jeskan appeared on it. "I had a bit of a phase as a kid, liked looking at maps- thought I'd become a cartographer. As you can see, didn't work out."

Vena quickly reverted back to her harpy form, taking another large spoonful of the stew, as if to prove a point.

"I got these not so long ago, right where Dark Ire and Lilac meet. The former's not known for its spices but turns out you can manage to scrounge up a something pretty good with the right know how- and to clarify, I'm definitely not the know-how type- this is the work of the same elf I was just talking about."
Nicholas
"I would hope your tricks will be more fun than disruptive... But we shall see, in the future."
*The harpy swayed left to right in her seat as she hummed, having already concluded that Vena was to be trusted despite her suggestions of a mischevious past. Unless she was truly devious, Kynia had seen enough kindness from her in their brief acquaintance to conclude as much. 

She started back as the changeling reverted and pushed her arm forward, leaning in curiously only moments later.*
"Woah... That is quite detailed for an ink drawing on your arm. You have a skill for this, yes."
*Kynia had not visited Jeskan, so the layout was unfamiliar for her. A talon traced a few of the key locations, her head twitching left to right in her close examination. Her head drifted once Vena withdrew her arm, grabbing at the table to break her dizziness.*

"...Oh, yes. I know the area," *She returned airily, staring into her bowl for a few long seconds. Her attention returned with a few quiet chirps, eyes narrowing at how easily she ate her food. As if in challenge, the harpy would shovel a similar portion into her own mouth - the result fairly obvious from her last few attempts.*
"Ack- The wooden elf, yes. This is... More than I could handle as a regular meal, I think." *She managed through spluttering coughs, her feathers bristling with each hack of her lungs. She recovered quickly, though the rest of the bowl was pushed aside.*
"There are flavours from my homeland I would like to show you one day, Vena."
William
"You'd be fun to mess with- *But* You're safe, we're friends." Vena cooed, idly scratching the table with her new talons. "I'm really no deceiver, or at least I don't want to be. Doesn't mean I'm not good at though." 

"I don't but I 'ppreciate you saying anyway." Vena chuckled as she withdrew her arm, taking a moment to look at the tattoo herself before she transformed back, smiling nostalgically. "Definitely couldn't do it now but I guess if I ever end up home- and I won't, I'll know my way around."

 "Ever visited? The Ire's its own kind of pretty but it wasn't the most pleasant place to sleep rough in. Too many bugs. 'Course if you ever change your mind about bugs being exclusively a bird's food it could become harpy heaven." The changeling teased, watching as Kynia's hubris betrayed them and they quit just a second spoonful into the stew. "You'll learn to like it, we have at least one more meal together ahead of us- maybe I'll let you have some of the milder stuff from Jeskan."

"I'd love to try all of them!" Vena replied with a happy coo as she wrapped her wings around herself, clearly also not so enthused about the stew. "I reckon the snow won't be here long, it's usually far heavier this late."
Nicholas
*Vena's phrasing was mysterious to the harpy, but she was satisfied with her reply nonetheless. A moment's pause followed as her mind cast back, leaning against the back of her chair and hummed aloud.*
"I have not... I took the boat to reach Ostia, I didn't go near the mountains or the swamp there. I have heard rumours about it, though. Goblins and swamp beasts in the water."

*Kynia pouted, first at the suggestion of eating bugs, then at her continued teasing about the spices. She bounced in her seat as her arms folded, her wings unfurling slightly.*
"Our people are fierce hunters, we'd need not hunt such small prey... And I would prefer that, it seems I cannot handle these as of now..." *She tapped the bowl with a tentative talon, her nose sniffing at the meal and turning upwards slightly.

She cooed back with a similar cheer, her attention snapping to the window a moment later. She hopped from her seat and waddled over, gasping at the thinning snowfall.*
"You're right! We should prepare soon, then. I have my supplies already, I expect you have things to put away?"
William
"Bleh, boats. Every time I'm on one I end up horribly sick. I won't go into detail but it's bad." Vena seemed a little off-colour at the mere thought of boating but with a shake of her head and flurry of chirps she managed to snap out of the feeling. "Goblins weren't the worst, you *Can* Reason with them- even if they aren't so trustworthy. I didn't have much trouble with the beasts thanks to my company but the odd times I was alone were a little dangerous, especially if you step on the wrong thing in the water."

Kynia's pouting only seemed to encourage the changeling, earning a cheery coo from her as she listened to Kynia defend her fellow harpy's honour.

"What do you say we don't try and see if we can't find anything to hunt after a couple flying lessons? Give you an opportunity to show me some of that fierce hunting?"

"I pack pretty light, been ready to leave for a while now. I reckon we might even be able to leave tomorrow morning if the snow's still showing signs of lessening."
Nicholas
"The sway of the boat reminded me of my time as a hatchling, wrapped in her wings..."
*Kynia recalled the memory fondly, turning on her heel and twittering happily. Her face dropped the next moment, suddenly very aware of Vena's provided form. Was it disrespectful, to allow someone to wear her mother's face? Conflict clouded her features, shuffling back over to the table with her eyes glued to the changeling. 

It passed soon after, bobbing her head as she tried to remember her last encounter with goblins.*
"Mm... They are smarter than they look, especially in groups. They have tricked my people before, out of fair kills and out of their tools. But the goblins in Corol Ambo are very tame, compared to the stories I hear of those in the West... It seems that most things are harsher here."

*Again the harpy perked up, eyes glistening and sharp at the prospect.*
"Oh yes, that would be very good. We will find much better meat than what theys serve here. I wonder what beasts roam the cliffs here..."
*She hummed for a minute or so, genuinely pondering the breadth of fauna that they may come across. Vena's readiness distracted her once more, Kynia nodding deliberately and hopping from her seat.*
"Then to sleep we should go. I have been walking for a while, now I feel tired."
William
Vena winced as she watched Kynia's expression turn from one of nostalgia to discomfort, well aware of the conflict that had just struck Kynia. The changeling's mouth opened for a moment as if to reply but closed again soon after as they decided it was best left alone, at least while her form remained new to Kynia.

"Spent a night as a goblin while I was there, they seemed pretty disorganized and I thought it'd be fun. Terrible living, food- but taste buds seemingly made for it and often despicable personalities. Yet there was *Something* About it, 'freeing' I think I'd describe it, more than what most tribes living in the wild can match."

Vena put her talons to her chin as she pondered what they might find. Before the snow, the mountains had proved a breeze to hunt in for even an amateur like her but now, even if it cleared up, finding game seemed like it would be quite the task. 

"Wild goats, perhaps? Ram? Maybe it's best not to speculate and leave the first thing we stumble on a surprise." Vena mused as she stood up, lifting her shirt and jacket and staring at them. She wondered if it would be worth cutting wing holes in them but left the decision to the morning, hopefully after she's had a chance to ask Kynia if she has any spare harpy-fitting clothes.

"Sleep sounds good, reckon I'll stay like this- these feathers are definitely comfortable~. We'll talk in the morning and hopefully be able to set off. Gods, I could use the change of scenery."
Hope
Yes! I can open up the next channel now, or we can pause for a bit - restart it at a later date. It's up to you, I'm game for either scenario
Reply in our OOC channel, I just remembered-