Joe
*Her journey through the mountains had been rough as she guessed it would be; but thankfully she managed to get her wagon, horses and herself back into the familiar regions that she called home.*

*Upon her entry into the Steep Woods, she was set upon by her mother and various other woodland kin. Even though she was an adult by all accounts, her mother treated her like she was still small - but Nimue could only grumble with a smile as she caught up with her kin.*

"I'll come by the Grove proper in a few days mother, so don't fret. We've got time to catch up" *She remarked, once they neared the border of the forest that led into Aismir. She bid them farewell as she moved her wagon into the city; of which she was greeted by old locals that welcomed her back home.*

*Upon arriving at her late father's home and clinic, she was nearly smothered by her grandmother - the large barbarian of a woman may show her age - but her grip wasn't anything to joke on.*

*Nimue spent the rest of the day in the company with her grandmother; enjoying a home cooked meal as they chatted and caught up on things. It was only the next day that Nimue found herself working about the clinic - offering check ups and medicines in the place of her grandmother.*
John
The travel through the mountains was certainly a trecherous one as always. Ginji had to take his time with it, as rushing or moving at the wrong times might have alerted some of the local monstrous beings of the mountains. Knowing his luck, he would have awoken a giant from its slumber, and that is *Not* Something he would have been able to hunt. But now, having left the border of Ostia, Ginji now found himself in the region of Heathersteed. The cool air here was an inviting one that brushed against his skin like a gentle welcome. His body has always been acustomed for the colder weather, not having to wear extra layers of clothes. Just his normal attire and the red scarf wrapped around his neck was all he needed.

However, it was not any of the dwarven cilivizations that caught his eye, but rather the Steep Wood and the town of Aismir. Ginji was not one for their lifestyle, living underground or amongst the rocks. He was more in tuned with nature, amongst the trees where he felt free to stretch his legs as he was used to. Walking amongst the trees, he took a deep breath and held a slight smile on his face underneath his mask. Definitely a different feel than anywhere in Ostia. Less likely to get jumped.
Joe
*While working out in the gardens just next to the clinic, Nimue took a moment to look up and out into the open streets of Aismir.*

*A few things had changed she noted since coming home, but things still felt familiar. Already the rumors of the attack and dragon sightings had passed in and out of the clinic from the locals.*

*The rumors had led to various sorts of travelers passing through the region - she had even seen some merchants coming and going. Things were likely to become busy around the city and woods.*
John
The bends around each tree was certainly one that tempted Ginji at every corner. He knew it was safer to stay on the path, but... The thought of the beast that lurked in the darkened hideaways of these woods spoke to the inner hunter within. He wondered how well he would manage against such beasts. But, this was not the time for such a thing. Lest he wished to be found injured in the middle of the woods again. And this time, no Elys to find him and save him. Then again, the Elsir Vale was somewhere in this region, so perhaps one day he might stumble upon her here. But if he had to be rescued by her again, he would be ashamed and embaressed of himself for not taking better care of himself.

No, he instead came here partially as a resting point before traveling to other parts of Heathersteed. Perhaps Millder Dale, as that was a pleasant town. But another reason he came was because at this time of year, folks seemed to gather around in greater numbers than usual. It would be a perfect time for him to try and meet new people and make new memories to carry with him. He thought about doing a show at the tavern, hoping his hand at the lute would be enough to impress the local bards.

As he continued his journey, the roofs of Aismir came into view, as well as the scents of the local meals already wafting to his nose, triggering his stomach to growl. However, even if this town was a lot more accepting of outsiders and a variety of races, he was still a bit anxious of strangers, keeping his guard up for anyone who seemed suspicious.

Upon entering the town, the first place that he searched for was *Not* The tavern, but rather the clinic. Ginji had a knack for bringing in trouble, although normally unintentionally, so there was always *Some* New bruise or wound on his body. He wanted to make a mental note of now far the clinic was from the tavern, hoping it wasnt that much of a walk. One of the first few buildings near one of the town's entrances, he spotted a woman with markings on her face tending to a garden. He cleared his throat and lifted a half opened hand, a bit hesitant to get her attention out of the blue.

"E... Excuse me. My apologies to bother you, but I am not from here, so I was hoping you might point me in the direction of the clinic. The buildings all look the same in these parts, and I would feel much safer knowing its location were trouble to come my way."
Joe
*Nimue looked up at the fellow, taking note of his ears and appearance; not a local for sure. She stood up and pointed to the clinic just next to the garden* "The clinic is right here, guess ye senses led you where you wanted to go. But ye shouldn't find much trouble here in Aismir, sure most folks look like the tough and rugged types - but tis how we live in the region."

*She'd pick up one of the small rakes and get back to fixing up the garden plots, while asking* "You passing through the area or are ye another one of those adventurer types - guess with the talk of demons and even dragons appearing has gotten all sorts of folks coming and going. I was hopeful after coming back home I'd be able to escape from all that, but wishful thinking."
John
He looked at the building from the side, taking a few steps away from the woman to see that there was indeed a sign on the other side that said "Clinic" On it. He let out a slight laugh at his mistake.

"Ah, silly me, haha. I would have gotten my answer in a few more steps. Thank you, kindly. I've been to this town before only a few times, but I've only ever crossed here depending on the time of the year. Compared to Ostia, I know this region is a lot calmer in comparison. Buuut... Some of the locals dont quite take kindly to a performer they arent a fan of. Especially after having consumed quite the amount of drinks. One time, I had someone throw a bottle at me and nearly missed my head. So... I'd rather not take my chances."

He paused for a second or two as he contemplated introducing himself to her. Not something he was used to, but... If he wants to be able to be closer to people and not scare them, he needs to start somewhere. Slowly, he walked towards the fence that divided the main road and the clinic's garden, giving her a slight blw before extending a hand out to the woman.

"A pleasure to meet you. My name is Ginjiro. While I am not necessarily an adventurer like those others, I am accustomed to roaming the lands as I do not have a *True* Home of my own. So more so just passing through, but at least wanted to partake in the lively culture of Aismir."
Joe
*She stood back up and returned the gesture with a nod of her head, and giving his hand a shake, her grip was semi rough as she kept her expression neutral* "Nimue Reuben, and ye might find yourself in luck among the taverns if you've come to perform - I would just suggest departing the taverns if things begin to get rowdy."

"If ye need medical care, I or my grandmother can provide it - I also sell potions and that sort if it interests you. So ye came from the Ostia region, spent a few short years traveling the region myself, but always feels better to be back home as I would say."
John
His ears perked up a bit at the mention of her running the clinic and selling potions. Letting go of her firm grip, he clasped his hands together as he spoke a bit more confidently.

"Oh, do you know how to make potions? Considering this is a clinic, I would assume they are healing potions. I have actually been meaning to find someone who is able to teach me how to. You see, I am not really... Wel versed in magic. I've tried a few times to learn healing magic, but to no avail. So my next option is to learn how to make healing potions. My... Mentor... She knows how to make potions, but not any of the healing variety, as she has magic for that. I wish to learn so that I can be like her, so... Might you be able to teach me? Oh, of course, when you have time. I do not wish to be a bother and disturb your schedule. Im certain you are busy."
Joe
"Potion crafting or some throw around the term alchemy, or even Elixirist - isn't always about using magic to make said potions, tonics, or even poisons" *She remarked, standing up and motioning him to follow her into the clinic* "But knowing some magic can assist in making ye brews stronger - but I don't think I could teach ye myself, but I don't mind showing you how to make some base level sort of potions without magic. Most would just call those medicines or salves; and even the ones I make use mostly herbs with just a small bit of magic to boost them."

*The inside the of the clinic was rather homely, if not cozy, there were various woven and carved furniture about, along with many types of plants. She'd led him over into what was likely a brewing room for her potions, and had various types of tools one would need in such work. She welcomed him to sit or stand by the main table, while she fished out her current healing based salves.*

 "So these here are just some basic salves I've made using the proper sort of herbs and plants; what sort of knowledge did ye mentor pass on to you in relation to potions and that sort?" *She asked him, before mentioning the names of the two salves - Healing Salve and Mending Oil.*
John
"Ah, no no. I didnt say I wanted to make potions that required magic. I said that *Because* I am incapable of using magic myself to heal people, or myself, I wish to learn how to craft potions to do so. I've tried a few times from the wandering word of mages that caught my ear. Every time was unsuccessful, to say the least. Unsure as to why."

Upon entering the clinic, he got a sense that was quite familiar to him. An inviting warmth that was meant to soothe the mind and soul of those that came in here. It reminded him a lot of his mentor's house when she first brought him in. And she has brought injured guests there too, so it could be identified as a clinic if he wanted. He carefully looked around the place, being mindful of his tail not to knock over anything fragile, holding it close as it wrapped around his side.

"My mentor, she... Well, as knowledgeable and kind as she is, she did not have too much knowledge in crafting potions. She used a potion on me once to help me calm down from my weary agitated state. She claimed it was a healing potion, but it was a sleeping potion instead. To which she used magic to tend to my wounds afterward. So all I know is a calming or sleeping potion, but I would rather not put anyone to sleep if they didnt need it. As for herbs and plants, she also has a garden to which she instructed me on the herbs she has im her possession. But... The names escape me."
Joe
"Ah, I understand - well as ye mentor likely showed ye - different herbs and plants can be used to make different sorts of medicine to help treat folks. I can show ye what I used for these two salved based ones, I'm still working towards drinkable healing potions myself."

*She would bring out a few tools one would use to prepare things* "One can think of potion crafting much like cooking, as my father used to say - ye need to have the right tools and know a few things in order to be prepared. Crafting potions without using or adding any magic into the mix, is much like cooking."

*Nimue then passed her fingers over a few books in a nearby bookcase, looking for something* "Tell me of ye past attempts, just hearing how a potion or that sort is made is quite different from doing it yourself. Was always more of a visual and hands on type when my father was teaching me."
John
"You're working *Towards* Drinking potions...? Does that mean there are potions that are not consumed? I have much to learn if that is the case."

He stood on the other side of the table, making sure he was not getting in the way of Nimue and her work. Although she couldnt see his eyes througu his mask, it was clear that he was paying close attention, moving his head to different angles so he was able to understand it better. His tail swayed a bit, hanging low as it moved around the tiny particles of dust and dirt.

"I suppose I am a visual and hands on learner, as well. The only times I ever learned anything was when residents of towns I've visited showed me how to do it. Or I would watch from afar if I was too nervous of causing trouble. Ironic that I am not an auditorial learner, considering... Well, you know, haha."

To emphasize his point, he flicked his ears a few times to put attention on them.

"Last time I tried to make a potion like my mentor, it didn't quite have the effect desired. I tried to make a sleeping potion like her, but instead it left me with a feeling of exhaustion yet unable to rest up to get rid of it."
Joe
"There are certainly drinkable types of potions out there, some give different effects - though they can be costly given whatever items are needed to make them. But potions is sort of all around term so to speak" *She motioned to the salve and oils.* "Healing potions themselves often tend to have some bit of magic added to them, often to speed up one's recovery - the field is large to say the least."

*She brought out a book from the shelf, opening it up while still listening to him* "So a sleeping potion, I've something akin though its more of an oil that you could burn or even toss or rub onto areas near your nose or eyes; least for its effects to work as it soaks into your skin. Do ye recall what sort of herbs or items were used for said potion, there are alot of herbs I know that can bring about the effect of sleeping?"

*She'd show him a few pages in the book, of which seemed to show some basic herbal remedies for sleeping aids, though they weren't the potion type so to speak.* "Though sounds like whatever you made just kept you awake, sounds like that coffee drink some taverns in Ostia had... Though sounds like a bad case of insomnia."
John
"Im certain it wasn't coffee. Perhaps it *Was* An insomnia potion. Whatever the case may be, I do not want to make this again. I can only be thankful it exhausted me and not anything worse that was detrimental for my health."

As Nimue flipped through the pages, he suddenly placed a finger on a page of a certain herb. He leaned in a bit to get a better look, trying to make out the exact look of the herb through a drawing compared to the real thing.

"I... Believe this is what I had used. I dont remember much of the herbs and ingrendients, but I recall this one. It was either... Chamomile or lavender. I was told others could be used, depending on the plant used. She also mentioned Valerian Root, but advised to be cautious of it as its effects were quite strong."

Despite his confusion and lack of knowledge, the way Ginji did not turn away from Nimue actions and words, showing his willingness to learn despite having no knowledge of the sort.

"How long have you been crafting potions? Must have been for quite some time with how knowledgable you are in the matter. I'm... Not sure how long it would take me to learn what I hope to achieve, but I will do whatever it takes."
Joe
"Ah you'd be right about Valerian Root, it like chamomile or lavender alone can be used as a natural way to fall asleep - but if not used in the correct manner the side effects can be headaches, to even insomnia. Now you can combine it with other herbs, but it should be the least amount less it alter the final results."

*At his question of how long she had been working with potions, she just chuckled* "Well I grew up surrounded by nature and learned under my late father, though much of my potion crafting came from trial and error - and even seeing if I could improve on already established types of potions. I suppose you should ask yourself, is this a field you simply wish to step into for the sake of learning how to craft useful potions for yourself; or something like a job?"

"Ye did say you were a performer no? Tis not always easy to be a traveler and wanting to do potion crafting unless you bring your supplies with you - of which is its own list to be frank" *She thought of her useful wagon and all her needed tools.* "For now what would ye like to try and make first, we can go for something simple so we can see what steps you might be missing. And maybe can avoid mishaps like another insomnia case."
John
"Er... What I am is a bit of a complicated story, in all honesty. I'm not an adventurer, per say, but I also wander around constantly, never staying in one place for too long. Half of the time I am hunting to not onky survive, but perhaps make money off of it in a town that would accept my wares. The music part came from me wanting to entertain myself on lone nights, something to soothe me on my journeys. Eventually I got to a point that I figured I was brave enough to try my skill on stage... With the mask on, of course."

Ginji looked around at all the tools, to which caused his ears to flatten slightly. He didnt have any of these things with him, and the only two places he knew of that had such tools was back at Elys's house, even if a simplified version, and then this very clinic. He would have to make long journeys and stock up just to be ready for when he was in between places.

"Well... This is less for me and more so for others I may come across on my travels that are injured. People like myself, specifically in Ostia, who are casted out and may not get the help they need. Traveling like I am now helps me find new methods that may prove to be better than what I already know. But... Due to my lack of crafting a equipment... Is there any healing potion that I can make on the go? Something that could be made with tools meant for cooking...?"
Joe
"Something on the go, well if that would be the case ye might be better knowing some basic first aid... Besides depending on whereabouts you might find yourself, you could lack ingredients needed for even the most simple of potions."

*She pondered, but knew that one could certainly make a few minor brews with just cooking tools. But they could be very crude when it came to the final results.*

"Some basic or simple potions can be made with cooking tools, though results can vary. My father would say how picky some potions are to craft - that's all I can offer on the matter."
John
Ginji crossed his arms, ears flattened a bit at the disappoint in the answer. Not anything that was her fault, of course.

"Hm... I see. Potion crafting is certainly proving to be a harder endeavour than my master made it out to be. There's a lot that goes to it that one might assume upon first glance. *Alright*... So, perhaps another question would be if there are any brewing kits that one might be able to travel with? And if such a thing exists... How much does it cost? Im ashamed to say I do mot have much of a fortune to my name as most of my earnings were robbed from me months ago near Bridian..."

Ginji pauses to take a quick look around the cllinic, looking at the different vials, medical supplies, as well as the beds for patients. There was something Nimue had said earlier that was revolving around in his head.

"By the way, is there something wrong with adventurers? Ive passed by a few here and there, but never has any sort of issue. You sounded... Displeased... At the thought of adventurers arriving to this town. Did you perhaps have a bad experience with an adventurer or two?"
Joe
"I sounded displeased? My tone is often like this, neutral and forward so to speak. I've nothing wrong with adventuring types - they often bring good business for towns and that sort. Aismir has always welcomed the outsider types, if anything most locals can't stand the high and mighty folks - take the nobles of Ostia for example."

*She would fix things around a tad* "As for kits, I do know you might be able to buy some here in the city. Though perhaps you could find better help at the Battle School some ways outside the city. Though the open markets also do see various types of merchants able to make their way into these parts... You could barter with them or work out a possible trade if you're lacking coin."
John
"Well you did say you had hoped to avoid the oncoming of adventurers, but I digress as you did just say you were not displeased. I... Could take a look at the open market, but my luck has neger been great when it comes to bartering and working up a good exchange. If I don't make a decent amount if coin from a performance or two at the tavern, I will have to be acting as some merchant's fetching dog just to get what I need. Not... The worse situation I have been in, admittedly. At least it would be for a good cause."

"Now, as for that Battle School, I *Have* Heard of the school upon my passings through this region. Although... I thought the school was mainly for warriors wishing to learn the ways of strength? I've heard the master of the school is skilled in the blade and the bow. If they do offer a few lessons in potion crafting, as well as offering a travel kit for brewing, then perhaps that shall be my next destination."

Ginji carefully took out his two daggers that he mainly used for hunting. He held them in a way to make sure Nimue could tell he was simply examining them. Last thing he wanted was her to think he was going to threaten her, alerting any guards or warriors in the area.

"...But perhaps it may benefit me to go regardless. I could use a few lessons, personally, as all my training came from trial and error. And that is just for hunting and self-defense against the beasts of the world. People can be... Well, a whole different kind of beast, and I'm certain you have seen your fair share of the cruelties people can do to one another."
Joe
"Ah, I only said that because I had been traveling and encountered many myself, I'd hope to have a break myself from such encounters. Least for a while, I see the confusion."

*She nodded her head as he spoke* "I'm not familiar with the Battle School itself, but it might prove helpful to ye. They'd likely be able to give some help - suppose you'll see for yourself if you visit. As for making coin, you might be in luck around the few bars and taverns."

*At his words of the cruelty of the world and it's dangers; she nodded her head with a frown.* "Aye, I've seen my fair share of trouble and woes. Some worse than others - all ye can do is be prepared and know how to handle yourself. Hopefully I've been able to offer what assistance I can, we're ye curious of anything else, Ginji?"
John
"I do believe you have given me an ample amount of information, even if a bit of it did not assist me in what I was looking for. *But* That comes from my lack of knowledge for potion crafting, to which you have taught me a lot. I believe now I shall take my leave and make my way to the open market, seeing if I may get my hands on a traveler's brewing kit. If you happen to come to the tavern later, perhaps I might see you in the crowd. Although... Depending on how the performance goes, you might be seeing me back here in this clinic."

He let out a sheepish laugh as he stepped away from Nimue's brewing table, headed back towards the door. He paused before turning back to look at her.

"But perhaps that would not be such a bad outcome, either. If I return here, perhaps I may have the chance to hear some of your tales going out into the world. You seem like the type to have quite the bit of stories on your belt. And perhaps during then, I might also get a lesson in brewing again? After all, if I am to take up brewing to help those in need, the basics would be a good start for someone like myself."
Joe
"Aye, you're welcome to drop by again depending how your plans play out" *She began, walking him to the door and back outside.*

"Best of luck and fortune to ye Ginjiro, hopefully when you come by it won't be with any injuries. And I'd be glad to give ye a lesson in potion brewing, I hope ye time in Aismir will be fruitful."
John
Ginji gave her a nod of his head, almost a slight bow, as he held himself up high, making his way out the front door. He looked back once more to make a mental note of the clinic, wanting to remember its place for later. Who knows, if Ginji is to one day learn to make potions as well as Nimue, then he could be another person here to aid anyone who is injured. The small steps to take to make a difference in this world. He made sure, in his mind, that he would stop by later to get that brewing lesson. A sense of confidence sparked inside of him as the flames of determination lit up. He felt more sure of the future that was opening up to him.

Of course, that confidence lead him to the front doors of The Three Cups tavern. His body felt paralyzed for a few seconds as he took a deep breath. He held a hand up to his mask, pushing it further against his face in hopes it would help conceal him more from the crowds he was going to face.

"It'll be ok. You got this. They arent going to hurt you. They'll love your performance."

With that quick pep talk, Ginji lifted himself once more and disappeared into the tavern.
Timothy
```End of RP - Thread may be used by others if they so wish for location etc.```