Calvin
*As Esme produced q great orb of magic from her finger tips, Almonde went silent as she'd curiously watch her. Pulling out the dagger was slightly concerning but she trusted that the woman knew what she was doing. A smile grew on her face as the wound began to close, listening with a lit up expression.*

```"Interesting, can't say I've met a witch in person before. I have heard about those who share in your title, but I doubt you'll eat babies especially with a bag full of nuts and fruit. I jest."```

*The devotee said in a joking manner, clearly influenced by easy air that this woman gave. A witch, she couldn't say that she was surprised. The hat being a big give away, but Almonde didn't know the world outside of the Capital. Outside of pages and words. A wave of relief began to wash over her shoulders, as the witch mentioned her more diplomatic personality and her desire to avoid conflict. It was clear that Almonde had more things in common with this witch than she realized.*

```"I suppose that's something we share, being one to avoid conflict and rely on diplomacy. I must say, I don't think I could have found better fellows to work with."```

*Almonde said before taking a moment to refill her tea, as the warm tea continued to boil over the flames. Sitting back down, her attention returned to the drows.*

```I don't have quarrels with drow, I mean I have never met one yet. But, from what I read. They are quite dangerous. Should we run into them, I'd suggest we have a cover story to why we are found. Perhaps we use their hatred for elves? Claim that we search for a poison to end elves? I don't enjoy lying, but a lie could make diplomacy make easier. But, it would be best to avoid meeting them if possible. I recommend we rest for tonight and regain our strength for tomorrow so we may start the search with well rested bodies!"```
.

*A hue of excitement and glee could be heard in her voice, the young devotee couldn't help herself as the idea of being on an adventure with a witch sounded like a bard song come true.*
Merle
*Esme cannot help but chuckle to the witch joke. They have never phased her even during the times of the onslaught of her coven. She understands the tall tales and at times, her sisters did not help the stereotypes surrounding those who practiced their art. But she wouldn't change it for the world even with how things turned out. Plus is it is hard not to maintain a positive attitude at times, for the jokes and beliefs surrounding witches can be both diabolical and ludicrous in all ways most entertaining. But she dares not dwell on it long, keeping proper manners and finishing half of her tea. She gives a nod.*

"It is good that we are of similar mind... But..." *Esme hums in thought.*
"If we are caught, playing into their strife can work poorly for us. They may wish to keep us around and ask for proof..."

*Has Esme dealt with drow before? Yes. The unseelie and the drow tend to linger closer than most would realize. Though not every family of drow support this theory. Their spaces are often shared and Esme has heard the stories. They will need to either bribe their way or manipulate their way out of the situation should one occur. But the witch hopes it will not come to that naturally. She may be human but she was raised with ancient elven values. Even her accent is of the old tongue and even after two hundred years, its near impossible for her to hide it.*

"It's best we remain unseen. The herb- actually it's a mushroom." *Esme chuckles as she pulls out her journal. It's her botany journal and most importantly, the sketches in here are beautifully accurate.*
"We need to collect a pixies parasol. It supports mana regrowth and wards off against mana instability. It gets its name from the fact pixies like to dance around it so... But I would imagine it is not them that we are to fear guarding it."

*She then nods in agreement to rest. If Almonde has further questions for her, she will not hesitate to answer. It is best to get these out of the way now so that they me be set off early in the morning with little to no interuptions.*
Calvin
*As laughter softly echoed between the thick brush, Almonde listened carefully to the witch's words. Slowly, realizing a strong accent of the old tongue which was odd but no alarming. Perhaps playing with drows is the equivalent of playing with fire, as a bad outcome is as likely as a good one. Almonde also become aware that she wasn't at lying, more towards being persuasion. The witch seemed more familiar with the drow which was welcoming to the young devotee. Almonde would stretch out her arms and her bones cracked, the sore arms of a long journey made harsh reminders. Esme would receive the devotee's full attention as she explained the mushroom in question. Almonde was no herbalist but her curiosity was quickly turned on potentially threats. Her eyes widened at the botany journal, studying the art which was quite well drawn.*

```"Impressive work, it almost looks realistic. I see the gods have blessed your artistic hand haha."```

*She would compliment the witch's art work and skill, the art gave the young woman a clear picture of what they were searching for. Almonde always had a love for arts. She took a moment to enjoy her tea, her eyes began to search around the camp as if checking a feeling of being watched. Yet, nothing of the particular caught her eye. Slowly returning to the conversation at hand.*

```"I see, sounds like a prized ingredient for magic. I shall leave the worries on the parasol to you. I am curious about what could be guarding it? Does it have natural defenses or attract predators? I know... Well... I know fairies can be mischievous but I am not familer at all with pixies. Please, tell me whatever you can or wish to."```

*Almonde said with a calm and curious tone, a soft yawn began to escape her lips. A hand quickly came over to cover her lips, realizing how rude it may look. Her body was certainly tired but she wished to be informed and familiar, knowing their sneaky quest into the caves may require a lot of silence or focus.*