From the Sands
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Arcite on 12-05-2012, 02:03:06</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>12-05-2012, 02:03:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The desert was a sea of sand in front of Vadya.&nbsp; Its dunes slowly shifting as the hot air blew in from the sea across the open land.&nbsp; Near the horizon black smoke rose in plumbs as the wreckage of a caravan burned.&nbsp; Vadya knew the group of vagabonds that had ransacked the traders, but she had no part with them.&nbsp; She would wait and scavange what they had left, which usually consisted of all the things she wanted, food and drink.&nbsp; She had no need for money since she left the center city Ur.&nbsp; She had lost her old life there and she did not wish to start anew.<br><br>Movement to left of the wreckage signaled her that it was time to move in.&nbsp; The others were leaving and she was hungrier than a basilisk.&nbsp; The sand beneath her feet hardened into a slate and with a push of her arms through the air the sand began to carry her towards her goal.&nbsp; Blood tinged the air with its coppery bitterness.&nbsp; Vadya lifted her hood and linen face mask to block the sting of the smoke.<br><br>The camels were gone, a wagon burned and three bodies lay sprawled on the sand.&nbsp; There blood turned the golden ground crimson and Vadya felt a tinge of remorse for the souls.&nbsp; They had not deserved what they received, but she was not about to waste her energy giving them a burial.&nbsp; She dropped her control of the sand and landed next to the flaming wagon looking in and grabbing the lone bag that was left.&nbsp; There had to be something in it she could use.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>12-05-2012, 04:28:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>You can't take the sky from me...</em><br><br>His ship sailed the through the sky as if it were gliding on melted butter.&nbsp; <em>The Sky Diamond.</em>&nbsp; That was the ship's name.&nbsp; It was a jewel of a ship and it was all his.&nbsp; The crew was small but they managed.&nbsp; He looked down at the wreckage that was smoldering...and watched the elemental float towards it.&nbsp; He grinned.&nbsp; Giving the order, Captain Steeltooth pointed down to where the wreckage was.<br><br>"Let's scare away the elemental down there and take what's ours!" he called to his mates.&nbsp; They were of both races, but it didn't matter.&nbsp; The crew was family and everyone else was their enemies.<br><br>Such is the life of a sky pirate...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>12-05-2012, 08:17:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Getting away from the smoke with her goods Vadya took a seat in the sand and began to rifle through it.&nbsp; She frowned and pulled out a book, a journal filled with data of sells and purchases.&nbsp; She upturned the bag, dumping the rest of the contents to the ground in a heap.&nbsp; a small purse of coins flopped out along with a few sticks of jerky meat and a small silver locket.<br><br>She scooped up the meat and chewed on it as she looked over the locket next.&nbsp; It was plain, no detailing what so ever and it was empty of pictures.&nbsp; She slipped it over her head just in case she found someone willing to buy it or exchange it for food.&nbsp; As she dumped out the coin purse into her hand a strange hum fluttered over the sound of the crackling fire.<br><br>Vadya's eyes looked over the land but she couldn't see anything of immediate attention.&nbsp; As the humming grew louder she turned her face to the sky.&nbsp; Her mouth dropped open as the sight of the air ship descending came into her view.&nbsp; She had experience with airship's and none of those experiences were any good.&nbsp; What she couldn't decide was why an air ship would be coming down in the middle of no where.<br><br>Standing up Vadya moved further from the wrecked caravan and readied herself for whatever might come.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>12-05-2012, 14:46:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The airship lands and the crew bounds out.&nbsp; The captain himself jumps down and surveys the area.&nbsp; He is dressed in a sleeveless trench, dusty jeans, a loose poet's shirt and a pirate's hat, a steel sabre on one hip and a gun on his left.&nbsp; His hair is long, black as ebony and past his shoulders in a long ponytail, his eyes crystal grey and his skin sun tanned.&nbsp; His various crew mates, seven in total, were all in different states of piratey type dress.&nbsp; <br><br>Stepping forward, the Captain draws his sword.&nbsp; "Best you step forward lass and give up what you found.&nbsp; First mate Kiryuu over there has control of the sand in this area and you cannot escape.&nbsp; Either we can talk, or they can shoot you dead.&nbsp; Your choice..."&nbsp; He grins.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>12-05-2012, 23:58:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With no definite escape from the crew as they came down and Vadya watched them pensively.&nbsp; Pirates, corsairs, brigands whatever title they went by they were petty thieves and bullies.&nbsp; She raised her hands as a show of prostration for the time being.&nbsp; "There is a lot of sand her sir, he can't control it all," she smiled lightly.<br><br>Picking the locket off her chest and letting it spin between her fingers she explained her own circumstances in the area.&nbsp; "I only just arrived at this wreckage myself.&nbsp; A small band of raiders took everything.&nbsp; This was all I found it's hardly worth a jug of water and a loaf of bread."&nbsp; She laid the trinket back down, the little silver oval fell under the edge of her tunic.<br><br>"It seems a bit small for seven men to go up against one woman for don't you think?"&nbsp; She raised an eye brow questioningly at him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 00:09:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Perhaps," he said as he walked up.&nbsp; He looked into her eyes and smiled a knowing smile.&nbsp; Looking at the locket, he snatched it from her and turned.&nbsp; "Gentlemen, it looks like we have a guest for dinner.&nbsp; The girl is new to the area and hungry.&nbsp; Since she helped us kindly with our scavenging, we are going to treat her likee family.&nbsp; Escort her onto the ship and make sure she is kept from harm or I will be taking hands."&nbsp; He grinned as he directed his men.&nbsp; "Now move!"&nbsp; The men responded with an 'Aye, captain!' and began to clean the area of any spare parts.&nbsp; Another elemental, the one the Captain called First Mate, stepped forward.&nbsp; "If you would follow me, Miss?"&nbsp; The man turned and headed for the ship, looking back to make sure the girl was in tow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 00:36:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya's sea green eyes opened wide and her mouth parted slightly.&nbsp; "Hey now, I'm not for sale here," she took a step back.&nbsp; She raised her face mask, her hood still covering her snow white hair, covering the deeply tanned skin.&nbsp; Only those deep sea eyes peeked through.<br><br>"I'm really sorry guys but I've had my fair share of your kind and I'm really not very interested."&nbsp; Like a geyser spewing water the sand around her and the other elemental erupted, leaving them both blinded for several seconds.&nbsp; In that time Vadya ducked and sprinted in an attempt to put some distance between them.&nbsp; Instead she ran herself right into the captain.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 00:43:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Captain caught her by the wrists and sighed, that same knowing smile on his face.&nbsp; "No, you are not for sale.&nbsp; But pull another trick off like that, and so help me, I will feed you to the sand worms.&nbsp; I was being a genuine gentleman and host, offering you at least dinner and possibly a ride to the nearest city, but if you cannot behave yourself, then we will sell you or worse.&nbsp; Now..." his voice lowers as he looks right into her eyes.&nbsp; "Which is it going to be?" he whispered dangerously.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 01:02:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya held his gaze steadily.&nbsp; Her one and only thought was 'Great, here we go again'.&nbsp; She sighed and nodded begrudgingly, "Alright, I'll take the generous hospitality."&nbsp; It sounded better than the the sand worms, but not by much.<br><br>Before she could do anything else she was surrounded and marched up onto the ship.&nbsp; It wasn't fancy, but it seemed well maintained.&nbsp; And it didn't look like a slaver's ship so even with the previous threat from Captain Pain-in-the-Neck she didn't expect it to be their primary objective.&nbsp; For a brief moment Vadya became a bit hopeful for this trip.&nbsp; She wasn't being locked in to a cell like the last time, maybe she'd get an actual bed.<br><br>Removing her mask and the hood on her sleeveless vest, the mass of white hair tumbled out around her shoulders.&nbsp; One thick black streak broke the snowy tendrils as it fell down the center of her hair.&nbsp; Without the extra coverage the hot wind actually felt refreshing againt her skin.&nbsp; "So captain-" she paused waiting for a name. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 01:07:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The captain seemed to ignore her as he went to his quarters and closed the door.&nbsp; The First Mate walked up once more.&nbsp; "I am Kiryuu, First Mate to Captain Steeltooth.&nbsp; Welcome aboard the <em>Sky Diamond</em>, fastest ship over the sands.&nbsp; Please, these quarters over here are yours.&nbsp; They're a bit small, but you have a bed and a bathroom all to yourself.&nbsp; The Captain dines in 3 hours.&nbsp; Some garments will be brought to you in an hour.&nbsp; Please choose one and dress nicely.&nbsp; It isn't everyday that the Captain has a guest from the shore."&nbsp; Kiryuu led her to a room and then turned and went back to his duties.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 01:18:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya frowned as the captain ignored her and closed himself into his quarters.&nbsp; Yeah, he was definitely a captain.&nbsp; The first mate had a bit more to say, though she couldn't say it was any more cordial.&nbsp; When Kiryuu mentioned the change in outfits Vadya found herself looking down at her own clothes.&nbsp; A knee length, sleeveless, belted tunic that was plain and covered in dirt and a dark brown woven vest with a hood.&nbsp; Her feet were wrapped in leather sandals that sported her dirty feet.<br><br>Okay, it wasn't the best looking outfit, but why did she need to change?&nbsp; It wasn't like the captain or his meager crew were anything special themselves.&nbsp; Before she could even object though Kiryuu was shutting the door behind himself and she was left alone in the little room.&nbsp; Vadya sighed and sat down on the little cot,&nbsp; "Balls."<br><br>Deciding to settle in she took several minutes to clean herself up.&nbsp; It had been quite a while since she'd enjoyed a real bath and felt almost embarrassed at the amount of sand that washed off her body.&nbsp; She was just drying off when a knock came at the door.&nbsp; The clothes she figured.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 01:35:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((Assume the clothes are nice, and pick something fashionable.))<br><br>After three hours, Kiryuu came to collect her.&nbsp; He would lead her to the Captain's Quarters and let her in.<br><br>Inside, the Captain was standing by a window.&nbsp; His manner of dress had changed.&nbsp; What was his 'pillaging gear' had been swapped out.&nbsp; He was now in nice black slacks, a button up white shirt, a red vest and a black suit jacket over it.&nbsp; His hair was pulled back into a long straight ponytail down his back and he was bathed and clean for the occasion.&nbsp; He turned as the door closed behind her, leaving them alone.&nbsp; "Good evening.&nbsp; I am Marcos Royce, Captain of this vessel, though most know me as Captain Steeltooth.&nbsp; Please, come in.&nbsp; Make yourself at home."<br><br>The quarters were big, the room large enough to fit a very nice, 4 poster, queen sized bed with silk coverings, a large dining table that currently held a feast of food as well as other tables with charts and various other things.&nbsp; The Captain came over and poured her some wine.&nbsp; "I don't believe we caught your name."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 02:20:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The clothes were uncomfortable.&nbsp; Vadya had never understood why women put themselves in torture chambers just to look nice.&nbsp; She had struggled for at least thirty minutes getting the corset on alone.&nbsp; She was sure she probably hadn't laced it properly, but since she couldn't breathe and it make her breasts look fantastic she figured she had done a well enough job.&nbsp; Then there was the bloomers and two petticoats.&nbsp; For all the undergarments that went with this way of dressing Vadya could have made several tunics to swap through.<br><br>Two separate dresses had been brought to her as well.&nbsp; One a sky blue with delicate silver and gold stitching depicting roses and lilies along the skirt.&nbsp; It had a scooped neckline to make use of the corsets 'enhancements'.&nbsp; The other was crimson with gold trim and delicate lace.&nbsp; It had a high neck with small carved buttons decorating the bust line.&nbsp; Vadya decided to go with the blue.<br><br>So when she finally turned up in the captain's quarters she was looking a far cry from how they had found her.&nbsp; She had brushed her hair and pulled her long bangs back into a small ponytail to keep them out of her eyes.&nbsp; She still lacked for make up but she wasn't an unpretty woman to begin with.&nbsp; The one thing she had opted out of was the stiff high heeled boots they and brought in, but with the long skirt of the dress her feet weren't visible anyway.<br><br>Despite being having a sudden sophistication to him now Vadya still found Marcos to be a prickly thorn in her side.&nbsp; Curtly she introduced herself, "Vadya.&nbsp; My name is Vadya.&nbsp; Just Vadya."&nbsp; She broke her gaze away from his and looked at the table and its lavish content.&nbsp; Her stomach growled audibly and she put a hand to her middle.&nbsp; "So, Marcos," she said his first name tartly in a show of defiance about making him her superior, "care to enlighten me on why exactly I'm..here?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 02:30:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos grinned.&nbsp; "Isn't it obvious?&nbsp; To have dinner.&nbsp; Please...help yourself."&nbsp; He indicated the food after pouring her the wine.&nbsp; He looked her over once and then looked at her face.&nbsp; "You hate the outfit."&nbsp; He chuckles.&nbsp; "it's alright, if it were me, I'd be in my leather and trench, but Kiryuu insisted that I dress up in this get up."&nbsp; He pours himself a cup of wine and then sets down the bottle.&nbsp; Picking up his glass, he walks back to his window.&nbsp; "We don't find many wandering by themselves in the Desert Wastes.&nbsp; Those we do are usually dead.&nbsp; You, however, are alive and mostly healthy, save for your hunger.&nbsp; Why is that?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 02:57:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya sat herself down cautiously at the table and sniffed the wine, wetting just her lips to taste before taking a real sip. "Why am alone and alive?"&nbsp; It seemed a silly question.&nbsp; "My people are from the sands.&nbsp; I grew up in Ur, but my family was from a desert tribe.&nbsp; It's in me to survive in the desert.&nbsp; I'm not like a city Elemental who just happens to have the talent they do."<br><br>It was a harsh thing to say about her own kind, but it was true.&nbsp; She picked a roll out of a near basket and plucked off a piece, stuffing it into her mouth.&nbsp; "As far as being alone well, I had companions before, just not anymore."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 03:08:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods.&nbsp; "There are not many of the sand elementals left.&nbsp; Kiryuu is one but he was also alone when we found him.&nbsp; He had nothing else however, and like you, was scavenging.&nbsp; He joined our crew four years ago and is now first mate.&nbsp; When we found you, it was like meeting Kiryuu all over again."&nbsp; He shook his head as he turned from the windows and came to the table.<br><br>"We are not a slave ship.&nbsp; Our intentions, when we found you, were to bring you to the nearest port.&nbsp; The Desert Wastes are our territory and not even the Royal Airship Navy can stop us out there.&nbsp; They leave us be while we plunder.&nbsp; We are survivors.&nbsp; The very best ones.&nbsp; And you are too.&nbsp; How would you like to join our crew?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 03:18:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You can't own the wild," Vadya muttered through her roll.&nbsp; She wondered what he meant exactly by there not being many 'sand elementals' left.&nbsp; Did he think that was all they could manipulate?&nbsp; If it was all Kiryuu could manipulate he was a pretty lousy Elemental.&nbsp; Maybe he just meant that there were not many elementals left from the desert.&nbsp; That was true.<br><br>Through many wars, migrating to the cities and just the harshness of the desert itself the elementals born to the deserts had diminished.&nbsp; In any circumstance though it was a shock to recieve the offer of joining the crew.&nbsp; She washed her food down with some more wine and wiped her mouth with the cloth napkin.&nbsp; It wasn't her idea of a great time, but considering her current position it may not hurt.<br><br>She sat back in her chair and eyed him, "I'm better, at surviving.&nbsp; Just saying.&nbsp; I guess it wouldn't hurt to stick around and give you machinists a few lessons in really working the desert over."&nbsp; It was big talk for a loner to be saying.&nbsp; Vadya smiled tentatively though showing her good will.&nbsp; If it kept her alive longer it might be worth the effort to melt into the ranks for a while.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 03:23:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles.&nbsp; "We can keep the wilds from others.&nbsp; No one owns the sky, yet we keep them away from our space.&nbsp; Them's the rules."&nbsp; He sits near her and watches her.&nbsp; "If you join my crew you are joining a family.&nbsp; The crew looks out for one another lass.&nbsp; If you are planning on joining, just to try and betray us, then simply tell me no and we will drop you off with some coin and a bit of food and water for your trouble.&nbsp; If you are serious, however, then we will take you.&nbsp; What do you say?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 05:16:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The last few times Vadya had been part of a 'family' things hadn't turned out so well.&nbsp; She had been doing find on her own for the most part.&nbsp; She should have just opted for the money and drop off, but...Vadya took another look around the cabin.&nbsp; It was difficult being alone all the time.&nbsp; The idea of being with a group, one that might work this time, was beyond tempting.&nbsp; Marcos seemed to be genuine in his offers.<br><br>"I'll join," her voice came out softer than she meant it to.&nbsp; "I'm not wearing this dress again though."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 05:18:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He laughs and offers her a knife.&nbsp; "You are free to cut it off if youd like.&nbsp; I've got spare clothes in the closet over there.&nbsp; I was...being courteous for my guest, if you will."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 05:38:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That or you were trying to get me to cut my clothes off, perv."&nbsp; She grinned and waved the knife away.&nbsp; "I'm good for now.&nbsp; Just really hungry."&nbsp; She took another bite of food and leaned forward on the table.&nbsp; "So you just, travel around the desert then?&nbsp; It seems like you would find a lot more in the way of loot in a more populated area."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 06:04:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"With two major ports on either side of the desert, there must sometimes be travel between the two by crossing the sands."&nbsp; he grins.&nbsp; "we make money and make a lea getaway.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Argleblather</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 07:17:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Bane knocks at the door, leaning against the side of the opening. She's fairly short, not much over five feet, dressed comfortably in dark slacks, and a dark shirt that almost completely obscures her shape. Her curly dark hair is pushed back from her face and her pale blue eyes shine with dulled annoyance. <br><br>"Marcos. There elementals from the sands are all collected. Are we going to be detoured by this one?" She tips her head, and raises her eyebrows toward the woman at the table. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 07:22:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos grins as he flicks his knife, embedding it into the wall just above Bane's head.&nbsp; "Bane, I disinctly remember the rule being that if I had a guest, I was not to be disturbed."&nbsp; He sighs.&nbsp; "As for this one...say hello to your new shipmate.&nbsp; Vadya, this is Bane.&nbsp; Bane, Vadya.&nbsp; Spread the word."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 07:24:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya ate her fill of food and sat back in the chair feeling satisfied.&nbsp; This new life she was about to embark into would be different, but she would adjust.&nbsp; Her first step to adjustment would be getting out of the awful corset she was in.&nbsp; She had a few more questions though.&nbsp; Before she had a chance to ask any of the questions though some one was interrupting them.<br><br>The way the other woman nodded at her set Vadya into a rage.&nbsp; "This one?&nbsp; What's that supposed to mean you little-" she cut herself short as she remembered the words 'family'.&nbsp; Oh, maybe she needed to rethink this.&nbsp; When Marcos introduced them Vadya found herself muttering, "Hello."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Argleblather</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 07:28:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Bane reaches for the knife, and uses it to dig under her nails, eyebrows raised. <br><br>"Hello Vadya." She says this blandly, but not coldy and tucks the knife in her belt. She looks back at the other woman for a moment then makes a faint nod of approval. She doesn't seem to be fawning all over the captain, which is a rather nice change from most of the sand mites the ship picks up while meandering from one dune to another. That's something anyway. <br><br>"Welcome to the ship, have you found quarters here yet?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 07:34:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"We will get her quarters after her and I finish talking.&nbsp; Unless there was something specific you wanted Bane?"&nbsp; He sounds faintly annoyed, though Bane knows that he gets over his frustration quickly when it comes to his crew.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 08:08:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya watched, her skin prickling with agitation.&nbsp; This was going to be a fun trip she could just tell.&nbsp; She had to give Marcos points for being a bit short over the fact that they were interrupted.&nbsp; Vadya pushed her chair back and stood up gathering up the ridiculous amount of skirts she had on.&nbsp; "You know what, this is probably a good time to stop anyway.&nbsp; I'll go change back into my tunic and you can go on...doing..captain things."<br><br>Vadya eyed Bane once more.&nbsp; She herself was at least a full head taller than the small woman and she wished she could use that difference in height to be intimidating.&nbsp; There was no being intimidating in the blue dress though.&nbsp; The most Vadya felt she was likely to do was make herself hyperventilate because of the corset and black out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Argleblather</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 08:12:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Bane smiles back at Vadya as she brushes past her, moving only slightly. <br><br>"Captain, hadn't you better tend to the new- member of our family? I'll spread the word that she's welcome on the ship among the crew, and will be joining us." As she speaks to the captain she bobs her head slightly, not quite a bow, but enough of an acknowledgement of his authority on the ship. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 08:18:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Bane..." he says in that voice that stops any of his crew.&nbsp; He walks forward and leans in, looking like he is about to kiss her...<br><br>...and then reaches and takes his knife back.&nbsp; he then straightens up and looks at her.&nbsp; "Tell them she is part of the crew.&nbsp; Tell Kiryuu that she is under his watch while she learns the ropes and tell whoever is on duty to steer tonight to head for port.&nbsp; We have some cargo to unload."&nbsp; He then turns and follows after his newest addition.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 08:27:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya made it back to the little room she had been first shown.&nbsp; She placed her tunic and belt out on the bed so she could reach them without effort after she undressed.&nbsp; Stretching her long arms back she unhooked the dress and let it fall to the floor.&nbsp; She stepped out and was pulling off the petty coats when the door flew open.&nbsp; It was Marcos, but that didn't stop Vadya from screaming sending a gust of strong wind flying at him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 08:59:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos hadn't meant to open the door like that, but he was slightly frustrated.&nbsp; And while being frustrated, his tended to be blunt and honest.&nbsp; Me opsuehs opens the door with the gust of hair, hitting hi back in the hallway.<br><br>"AH...sorry.&nbsp; I thought you had, ow...by now...sorry, I'm babbling about home..." And so the ranting went for a minute.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 09:19:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((Hah, it took me a couple tries to make out everything you said there))<br><br>Vadya felt her face flush hot with embarrassment and grabbed Marcos by his shirt and pulled him back into the room and shut the door with a slam.&nbsp; "Whatever, just get in here.&nbsp; I'm on a ship with a bunch of strangers, you'll have to forgive me for getting spooked."<br><br>She stripped the petticoats, leaving herself in the corset and bloomers.&nbsp; It might have been considered a revealing way to be standing for city folk but Vadya wasn't city folk.&nbsp; She wasn't naked so it was enough clothing to hear whatever it was her new captain needed to say.&nbsp; &nbsp;She crossed her arms in front of her chest, "What is it you need?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 09:26:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I wanted to make sure that you didn't take Bane's comments to heart.&nbsp; She watches over things sometimes...watches over me.&nbsp; Like I said, family."&nbsp; He sighs and shakes his head.&nbsp; "My apologies for her behavior.&nbsp; I spoke with her and everything should be fine.&nbsp; Tomorrow you learn duties with Kiryuu.&nbsp; If you have any questions, ask him.&nbsp; Tomorrow, we head for port."&nbsp; He turns and heads for the door.&nbsp; Stopping, he turns.<br><br>"And you looked very beautiful tonight Vadya."&nbsp; He smiles and then heads for the door again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 09:34:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Beautiful, the world stopped Vadya cold.&nbsp; "Marcos, uh...thank you.&nbsp; You clean up nicely yourself."&nbsp; She let her arms drop and ran a hand through her hair.&nbsp; How long had it been since she'd ever had a compliment like that?&nbsp; Forever.&nbsp; She let him leave and went back to changing into her tunic.<br><br>****<br><br>On deck the third member of the Sky Diamond's crew, Trent, was just waiting for the captain to come out.&nbsp; He was a tall blonde haired fellow, white skin that was sun kissed brown.&nbsp; He had icy blue eyes and was built like a rock.&nbsp; "Captain!&nbsp; Did we really take on that scraggly thing we found?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 09:38:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos heads back to his quarters with Trent in tow.&nbsp; "No, we took on an Elemetnal named Vadya, and you'll do well to remember that.&nbsp; Did you forget that every person of this crew was found or taken in, one way or another?"&nbsp; He looked over at Trent as he pulled off his coat and vest.&nbsp; "Treat her like you do the others.&nbsp; My ship, my rules.&nbsp; Now go.&nbsp; We got a long day tomorrow."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>13-05-2012, 10:28:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent stopped short of the door and sighed.&nbsp; "Yeah alright."&nbsp; Who was he to question the captain's decisions?&nbsp; The conversation was definitely over so Trent decided to go back to his cleaning duties.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 00:09:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos closed the door to his quarters and after clearing his table, went to bed.&nbsp; <br><br>The next morning, the ship was aiming for port.&nbsp; It was still yet a few hours out, but the Captain was up bright and early, back in his trench and ready for the day ahead of him.&nbsp; The crew soon stirred from sleep as one by one, Kiryuu woke them up.&nbsp; Marcos was on the front of his ship, telescope out and looking ahead of them from the bow, his hair loose from it's ponytail and wavering in the wind.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 00:21:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya had managed to procure a set of trousers and a shirt from the stock of clothing that the crew had.&nbsp; She didn't think that her tunic was quit the right gear for what she was going to be doing now, but she had kept her belt, hoodie-vest and her sandals.&nbsp; When she emerged onto the deck she immediately spotted Kiryuu.&nbsp; She hadn't been given any tasks yet and she wanted to know where she might be the most useful.&nbsp; The only problem was she didn't really know if she had any talents for a ship.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 00:41:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kiryuu was barking orders as he slowly walked across deck, the crew running to comply.&nbsp; When he spotted Vadya, he was near the Captain, who was still looking ahead of them.&nbsp; Stepping to her, his eyes narrowed slightly.&nbsp; "The plan is to pull into port today to unload some of the cargo that we have collected.&nbsp; As you are new, teaching you will take time.&nbsp; However, you can begin by scrubbing the deck.&nbsp; Mops and buckets are just below.&nbsp; Make sure the whole ship is scrubbed.&nbsp; We may be pirates, but we aren't dirty or pathetic.&nbsp; Now move out!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 00:54:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The way Kiryuu's eyes narrowed made Vadya begin to wonder if the only person who didn't mind her being here was the captain himself.&nbsp; She nodded at her new cleaning duties and turned to find what she needed.&nbsp; Trent was already working a mop back and forth over the deck, a bucket of water near him along with several scrub brushes.&nbsp; Deciding it was as good a place as any to begin Vadya headed for him.<br><br>"Excuse me, do you mind if I share your bucket?" she hesitated next to the brick wall of a man as he turned and eyed her with suspicion.&nbsp; He snorted and kicked the bucket towards her, splashing water over the deck as it went.&nbsp; "You aren't going to make it very far being so timid, Scraps."&nbsp; Vadya blinked and slowly circled her hand in the air causing a blob of water to rise into the air.&nbsp; "Scraps?"&nbsp; Trent snickered and flicked his mop at her, "Your new name."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 01:06:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kiryuu walked over to the helmsman to watch the crew from the back of the ship.&nbsp; Marcos, after having stared at the open sky for 15 minutes, finally turned around as he put his telescope inside his trench.&nbsp; "We make port in a few hours.&nbsp; After we sell the cargo, you all have leave.&nbsp; Ship leaves at 6am tomorrow morning.&nbsp; Be here, or get left behind."&nbsp; He grins and heads below deck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 01:49:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya wiped the dirty water from the mop off of her face and scowled.&nbsp; She turned from Trent and threw her water bubble across the deck, spreading it as far as it would go before getting a scrub brush and getting to her hands and knees.&nbsp; It was only the first day, she kept telling herself, just give it time and it might get better.<br><br>It wasn't about to start looking better soon though.&nbsp; Trent kept an eye on her as she scrubbed, waiting for her to get back to her feet before whipping her in the knees, sending Vadya to the floor.&nbsp; She screamed as she fell and the water she had used now soaked her clothes.&nbsp; She got back to her feet growling.&nbsp; "That is it!"&nbsp; Before Trent could even finish laughing he had a face full of water.&nbsp; He coughed and sputtered as he tried to catch his breath from the soapy onslaught.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 02:09:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kiryuu steps forward but Marcos stops him with a look.&nbsp; Stepping up to the two, he growled.&nbsp; "Enough!"&nbsp; His voice is sharp but not too loud.&nbsp; Looking at the both of them, Marcos turns to Trent.&nbsp; "Explain," he says quietly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 02:48:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent quickly stood at attention and lowered his eyes towards the deck, "Just having a bit of fun sir."&nbsp; Vadya huffed, "Fun?&nbsp; You call knocking my feet out from under me fun?".&nbsp; This crew was out to get her.&nbsp; Her hands balled into fists as her hair fluttered in the slight current of air that began to twist around her.&nbsp; Her green eyes flew to Marcos, his face grim and angry.<br><br>If that was how these pirates wanted to play then she would sure as hell play.&nbsp; Taking a deep breath Vadya steadied herself.&nbsp; "You know, now that I think about it, it was fun.&nbsp; A lot of fun.&nbsp; No problems here...captain."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 03:12:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos' eyes narrowed at Trent but when Vadya called it fun, he turns to her with a quirk of a brow.&nbsp; Nodding in understanding, he turned.&nbsp; "Deck scrubbed by the time we hit port or the two of you will stay on board while everyone else goes to port.&nbsp; Understood?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 07:43:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent gave a quick salute, "Sir, yes sir."&nbsp; He quickly picked his mop back up and went to work.&nbsp; He wasn't losing shore time over the new squid.&nbsp; Vadya merely picked her brush back up and started heading away, "Yeah, got it.&nbsp; Sir."&nbsp; She would have to get used to the titles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 09:30:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That goes for all of you," he calls out to the crew of the ship.&nbsp; "You all have duties.&nbsp; Get them done or no leave.&nbsp; The rules have not changed."&nbsp; He moves and heads for below deck to go over their cargo.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 11:32:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				By the time the buildings of the city could be seen on the horizon Vadya was drenched in sweat and exhausted.&nbsp; She had done her best to stay on the opposite side of Trent so they wouldn't have any more major run ins, but now and then a rag would fly across the deck and one of them would be hit in the head.&nbsp; She had finished stowing the gear she had been using and went to the rail of the ship to look out at the city.<br><br>It was sprawling and filled with an unimaginable amount of life.&nbsp; They were close to the shore now, the land green and brown from the grass that was trying to overrule the sand of the desert land.&nbsp; A deep aquamarine spread out for miles to the west of the city, meeting with the blue of the sky far in the distance.&nbsp; Inside the city mobiles and carriages could be seen rushing through the cobbled streets.&nbsp; A myriad of air ships were gliding in and out of the air docks while sea faring ships hung around the cities bay.<br><br>Vadya found herself sighing in amazement at the brilliance of it all.&nbsp; It reminded her of the first time she had seen a city built by the Others, non-elementals.&nbsp; They were so different, so artificial looking.&nbsp; Metal shone across a multitude of buildings, decorating their roofs or doors.&nbsp; She admired what the Others were capable of when they put their minds to it.&nbsp; For a moment Vadya found herself smiling at the ingenuity of the city.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 11:35:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos goes to stand next to Vadya.&nbsp; "Beautiful isn't it?&nbsp; A hive of technology and life."&nbsp; He grins as the ship begins to pull into port.&nbsp; "Go help the crew unload the cargo and then see me when you're done."&nbsp; He turns and heads for his quarters.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 11:55:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It's interesting, I'll give you that much."&nbsp; Vadya sighed as she was given her next orders and started for the holding bay.&nbsp; Hopefully with the amount of focus they would need to get everything taken care of no one would have time to mess with her.&nbsp; But Vadya had to wonder if this was the life for her.&nbsp; she had never really worked under anyone, she wasn't used to it and she couldn't say she was enjoying it.<br><br>After they docked the whole crew hurried to unload what was on the ship.&nbsp; It was a fair amount but with everyone working in tandem it went quickly.&nbsp; Trent hadn't even bothered her the whole time.&nbsp; As the rest of the group begin to disperse Vadya made her way back to Marcos' cabin.&nbsp; She was filthy, covered in dust from the cargo she had moved and sweat from the exertion.&nbsp; She kind of hated to be seen like this after having looked decent for one evening.&nbsp; But it wasn't much different from how they had found her.&nbsp; Vadya accepted the fact that she would probably just never be a constant beauty.<br><br>She knocked on the door, waiting for someone to answer.&nbsp; Unlike the woman who had just walked in before Vadya had some sense of privacy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 12:11:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos opened the door and stepped aside.&nbsp; "Come in.&nbsp; There's water on the table.&nbsp; Grab a seat."&nbsp; He closes the door behind her as he grabs a small jug of water and sits down, putting his feet up on the table.&nbsp; "You wanna talk about what happened with Trent?" he asks evenly, not sounding upset, just curious.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 12:54:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya was a bit taken aback by the line of questioning.&nbsp; To wait so long before bringing it up again caught her off guard.&nbsp; But as she thought about it it she figured she shouldn't have been that surprised.&nbsp; Before answering Vadya poured herself a glass of water and downed it, wiping a few water droplets from her lips.<br><br>"What exactly is it you're wanting to know?&nbsp; What did he really do or why did I suddenly change my attitude?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 13:04:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I want to know if you're handling it ok.&nbsp; I know what he did and I have a guess as to why you changed your attitude."&nbsp; He took a long drink as he got up to look out the window.&nbsp; "My crew is tight knit.&nbsp; We haven't had someone new in over a year.&nbsp; It will be hard for some of them to adjust."&nbsp; He turns to look at her.&nbsp; "Bane may get jealous.&nbsp; You are beautiful and we've had women come on this ship simply to faun over a Captain.&nbsp; Something I am not terribly keen on."&nbsp; He shrugs.&nbsp; "You are part of my crew now.&nbsp; As part, I get the right to worry."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 13:18:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya felt her anxiety ease a bit and then rise again.&nbsp; Marcos could talk to her as a person when it was just them.&nbsp; He tried to keep the air of authority but not by much.&nbsp; She wondered if it made it that much harder accept him as an authority figure.&nbsp; Vadya just gave a shrug, "Look, it's..just as different for me.&nbsp; It's been a few years since I've had any long lasting companionship.&nbsp; And no offense, but it's been even longer since I've had anyone telling me what to do and how to act.&nbsp; So, if I don't exactly fall in line, well, it isn't that I'm not trying."<br><br>She refilled her glass with water and sipped it a bit more slowly.&nbsp; "I guess I do wonder if this is something that will work for either of us."&nbsp; Vadya paused feeling her face redden.&nbsp; "I mean...as a unit.&nbsp; Not you and me personally."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 13:21:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos chuckles.&nbsp; "Why Vadya, a crush on the Captain already?"&nbsp; He grins and shakes his head.&nbsp; "If you want to stay, then it will work.&nbsp; But you are free to leave whenever."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 13:41:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya grinned and rolled her eyes, "In your dreams maybe.&nbsp; I am way to much woman for you."&nbsp; She nodded at his sentiment about things working out and sipped from her glass again.&nbsp; "Yeah, I suppose you're right.&nbsp; You have any tips on places to go around here?&nbsp; The only cities I've been to were half way around the world from here.&nbsp; Can't say I'm very familiar with the area."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 13:48:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos gives a laugh as he sets the jug down.&nbsp; "Challenge accepted."&nbsp; He offers her a hand.&nbsp; "Come my dear, I will give you a tour of the city and we will see just how much woman you are."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:09:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya looked at his hand, "What?&nbsp; Oh, oh no! No no no no, I'll be fine on my own really.&nbsp; Besides, I'm dirty and you're clean."&nbsp; She paused there and wiped a smudge of dirt on his face and chuckled.&nbsp; "More clean.&nbsp; Really you don't have to."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:20:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If I did not want to, I would not offer."&nbsp; He smiles, still offering her a hand.&nbsp; "And if you feel the need to clean up first, then I will wait."&nbsp; He looks at her, waiting.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:30:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You're not nearly as charming as you think you are, just so you know." Vadya took his hand and got up from her seat, allowing him to lead her to the door.&nbsp; "I'll meet you on the dock in twenty minutes,&nbsp; Just let me bathe and put on some fresh clothes."&nbsp; She went on to her room, bathing quickly and tripping over herself as she through on a new pair of pants and a clean shirt.&nbsp; For a minute she fought with the decision to tie her hair back but finally settled on leaving it down and just gave it a quick brush through with her fingers. After throwing on her vest and sandals Vadya strolled off the ship feeling a renewed invigoration.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:34:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos was standing on the dock waiting.&nbsp; He had cleaned up, thrown on a new pair of pants and sleeveless shirt under his sleeveless trench.&nbsp; When she arrived, he turned around and smiles, offering his arm.&nbsp; "Well Miss Vadya, are you ready to see the city?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:45:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya only took hold of his arm long enough to pull him forward, showing her eagerness to get on with things, before dropping it.&nbsp; "I'm telling you, you're not going to get any where me.&nbsp; Figuratively speaking, since we are actually going some where...together.&nbsp; Nevermind."&nbsp; She took a deep breath getting angry at herself for letting him fluster her the way he did.&nbsp; He wasn't even that handsome, not compared to...she shook the memory away.<br><br>"So, Marcos, where are we headed first?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:47:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos laughs and points down a street.&nbsp; "I figured we could eat first and then traverse the bazzar.&nbsp; There's a place here that serves an amazing breakfast.&nbsp; Real eggs.&nbsp; What do you say?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 14:57:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I could always go for food,"&nbsp; she smiled at him, following close as he led her through the streets.&nbsp; To ease some of her own tension Vadya began with the small talk.&nbsp; "So how long have you been a captain?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:04:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Six years.&nbsp; I acquired the ship with Kiryuu and we began to travel.&nbsp; The Wastes has been the best place for us and we've been calling it home with the Diamond."&nbsp; He looks at her.&nbsp; "What about you?&nbsp; How long were you traveling alone?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:27:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Seems like forever."&nbsp; She sighed and thought it over for a moment.&nbsp; "About five years.&nbsp; Give or take a life time."&nbsp; She smiled, but there was a deep pain just underneath the surface of her seemingly happy nature.&nbsp; "You lose track of time after a while and even when you get a calender you forget when things began anyway.&nbsp; Five seems about right though."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:32:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I can understand that."&nbsp; He falls silent, remembering his own pain, but pushing it back down again.&nbsp; Arriving at the shop, he opens the door and lets her in first before following.&nbsp; Leading her to a table, he sits with her.&nbsp; "You want to talk about it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:44:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya cocked an eyebrow, "What's to talk about?&nbsp; It's all a far away life.&nbsp; I'm here now, with you..and your crew."&nbsp; She put on a smile as a server came to give them menus and take their drink orders.&nbsp; When it was only them again at the table Vadya leaned forward, studying her menu but keeping her mind on Marcos.<br><br>"So, Kiryuu is pretty much the best friend I gather.&nbsp; What about the ra-ah..Bane.&nbsp; Bane right?&nbsp; What's the story with her?&nbsp; Obviously she has a thing for you if she gets jealous over you being with other women."&nbsp; Vadya took a quick glance up and smirked, "even if they think you're no slicker than rusted pistol."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:52:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Lying to yourself gets you nowhere."&nbsp; He chuckles.&nbsp; "Each has their story.&nbsp; Best you get it from them however.&nbsp; It will get you closer to them.&nbsp; Build the connections you need to make."&nbsp; The waitress comes back with the drinks and they put in their food order.&nbsp; "I can only tell you things of me.&nbsp; Trust me, better that way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 15:57:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yeah well, if I get maimed in that process I'm holding you accountable.&nbsp; Here's a question you can answer for me, what got you interested in taking me aboard your ship?"&nbsp; Vadya gazed at him with her green eyes over the edge of her glass as she sipped from it.&nbsp; It could have been upon a whim, but if he had such a small, tightly knit crew and there hadn't been any new comers in over a year, then why now?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 16:04:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You were just like us.&nbsp; Each one of us has gone through something.&nbsp; We were each alone when found.&nbsp; Slowly, we've built a home on that ship.&nbsp; We have our flaws...some of them deep flaws.&nbsp; But we've dealt and melded.&nbsp; We found you.&nbsp; You have fight in your eyes.&nbsp; You want to live..move forward.&nbsp; Just like us."&nbsp; He smiles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 16:21:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hm," she eyed him thoughtfully.&nbsp; "Do you always try to act so well put together?"&nbsp; She snickered and layed her chin in her hand.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 16:23:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grins.&nbsp; "Do you always assume that a pirate is nothing more then a despicable scoundrel?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>14-05-2012, 16:33:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She laughed lightly, "I knew one that wasn't so bad.&nbsp; He liked to give being a pirate a bit more flare though.&nbsp; 'I'm a corsair!' he'd always say every time I called him a no good pirate."&nbsp; She chuckled to herself, "It's the same thing.&nbsp; He could mae it seem like it wasn't though."<br><br>She looked at Marcos again, really looked at him.&nbsp; Vadya didn't like the way he could make her dredge up so many old memories.&nbsp; She didn't like the way his smile and stormy eyes could make her feel like she did in the old days.&nbsp; Maybe it wasn't all just him though, she wondered.&nbsp; Maybe she was just finally ready to let go of what she lost.&nbsp; She hovered her hand over her glass, bringing up a few drops of the iced tea she had ordered and flicked them at his face teasingly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 06:35:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles as he licked his lips where the droplets hit.&nbsp; "And there she is, finally admitting that she enjoys the flirtation with me.&nbsp; It's about time you know..."&nbsp; He laughs heartily as their food arrives.&nbsp; "Dig in, Vadya.&nbsp; Enjoy your breakfast!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 06:45:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya laughed as she began to dig around in her food.&nbsp; "Whatever, you're just seeing what you want to."&nbsp; Together they ate with little more talking except for the occasional comment on how delicious the meal was.&nbsp; When they were finished Vadya was giggling to herself.&nbsp; "You know, you might actually be likeable if you were so completely sure of how awesome you THINK you are."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 07:36:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He laughs as he pushes his plate aside.&nbsp; "You must understand lass, if I don't find me great, then who will?&nbsp; One must love oneself first you know."&nbsp; He downs the rest of his water and smiles at her.&nbsp; "There's nothing wrong with a little confidence.&nbsp; Do well to remember that lass."&nbsp; He grins and stands.&nbsp; "Come," he says as he drops a few bills on the table.&nbsp; "Let us go see the bazaar."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 07:49:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She got up from the table with him and walked out.&nbsp; She stood a little closer feeling a little more relaxed, but still didn't take his arm.&nbsp; The bazaar was several blocks down, closer to the shore.&nbsp; Just the walk there had Vadya gawking at most of what was along the streets.&nbsp; Dress shops sported gowns one hundred times more elegant than the one she had worn the night before and rich women would walk out with two or three garment bags.&nbsp; Weapon shops of all kinds were placed here or there, young boys stared into their windows with wide eyes.&nbsp; The streets were alive with all sorts of different people.<br><br>As they approached the bazaar though things really changed.&nbsp; The population was a greater mix of middle and lower class individuals.&nbsp; But it didn't matter who was shopping, the eye catcher were the stalls that sprawled for blocks.&nbsp; Any manner of item could be found.&nbsp; Finely crafted jewelry to home spun rugs.&nbsp; Food stalls could be found every few feet, their exotic sweet aromas mixing together to create something totally new.&nbsp; Vadya was glad she had eaten before they came other wise her mouth would have been pouring with drool.<br><br>"I haven't seen a market like this in....so long."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 08:09:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, welcome.&nbsp; Look around, see if you find anything you like.&nbsp; I gotta find something for Trent, as his birthday is coming up soon."&nbsp; He grinned as he lead her deeper into the bazaar where all sorts of people were calling out their wares.&nbsp; Marcos seemed to be in good spirits as he went from one stall to the next with Vadya, looking at all manner of things.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zad</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 10:51:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				'Stop! Thief!'<br>The young man raced through the crowded bazaar, acrobaticaally dodging the people in the market, launching himself of a stall and landing on a canvas roof. He sighed to himself, and took out his prize.<br>'All this for an apple?' Troy whispered to himself. The loyalty of the guards to the merchants was astonishing, almost as if it was their second source of income. It probably was, now that Troy thought about it.<br>A sickening rip tore through the sheet Troy lounged on as a blade cut through it, intent on dissecting the thief. Troy reacted quickly, launching himself up, then bouncing to the stall across the way. His feet hit the sheet that covered the roof, and he again soared into the air, aiming for the centre of the street.<br>'Better luck next time, my friends,' Troy said, with a sly smile as he sprinted through the crowd, leaving the confused guards behind
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 11:17:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya had been busy looking at a new set of clothes when all the commotion began to head in her and Marcos' direction.&nbsp; She looked up as women shrieked and men shouted while jumping out of the center of the lane.&nbsp; She could hear voices shouting 'Catch him!' in the distance.&nbsp; Then a young man came bursting through the crowd like a canon ball.<br><br>He didn't seem to be carrying anything on him other than a piece of fruit.&nbsp; She knew what it was like to have to steal to survive and even steal just to get something new.&nbsp; As he came closer she rushed into the lane and caught him by the shirt pulling across into a narrow alley.&nbsp; Just as soon as they were out of the way she was slipping off her hooded vest and handing it to him.&nbsp; "Put this on and put the hood up."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zad</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 11:24:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Triumph was evident on Troy's face. he would be enjoying a big, red, juicy apple tonight, regardless of the price they put on his head, if they put one on him at all. It was the best feeling, running through the crowd that dispersed as he sprinted. It made him feel-<br>CAUGHT! Someone grabbed the scruff of his shirt and dragged him into the alley. It was a woman, stronger then he would have thought. The guards ran past as she gave him a hooded vest.<br>'Put this on and put the hood up'<br>Troy smiled, obliging politely. Once the garb was upon him, he turned to the woman once more.<br>'You have my thanks, milady. But who are you?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 11:28:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at him, so many memories of similar situations pouring into the front of her mind.&nbsp; She pushed them back and held out a hand.&nbsp; "Vadya. Look, they're going to be hounding for you for a while yet."&nbsp; She looked past his shoulder towards the narrow opening.&nbsp; She could see Marcos still across the way.&nbsp; "Stick with me for a bit yeah?&nbsp; I'll help keep you covered until things die down."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zad</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 11:31:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Troy smiled to himself. Why was this woman helping him so? Did she perhaps relate to him in some way? Was she a rebel against the guard? Or was she just a nice woman trying to help a lad in need?<br>'Thank you, milady,' Troy said, bowing his head, 'please, lead the way'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 11:41:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya laughed and waved a hand dismissively at him.&nbsp; "Please, no need to be so formal.&nbsp; I'm a woman but hardly a lady.&nbsp; Just call me Vadya."&nbsp; She eased around him going back to the opening of the alley and peering out.&nbsp; Things seemed to be calming down around the area, but she decided it would be best to wait just a few more moments before taking him back into the street.&nbsp; "Speaking of names, I didn't catch yours."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zad</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 12:03:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Troy raised his head as Vadya checked the street adjacent to the alley, and licked his lips, trying to rehydrate himself after his running match with the law.<br>'My name is Troy, Vadya,' he said lightly, taking her previous comment into consideration, 'and I thoroughly agree with you. Waiting in a dark alley in the city is the safest option'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 12:09:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She cocked an eye brow at him.&nbsp; "What are you afraid of a little alley?"&nbsp; She smirked and turned back to the street walking out casually.&nbsp; She motioned for him to follow, the crowds thoroughly recovered from the upheaval.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Zad</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 12:16:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Troy was taken aback. Him, afraid? Had she not seen the wave of guards chasing him for an apple? The blade that had nearly pierced a place no blade should ever go? No, Troy was not afraid. More cautious. Alleys were notorious crime spots in this city. But, nevertheless, he was relieved when Vadya turned to access the street again. Eagerly, he followed
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>15-05-2012, 13:39:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos looked up as Vadya came back, a grin on his face.&nbsp; He holds up what looks like a small blue crystal with some kind of purple looking powder on a leather string.&nbsp; "For Trent.&nbsp; Faerie powder.&nbsp; Said to help keep sailors safe against demons.&nbsp; He kind of has that superstitious streak in him."&nbsp; He chuckles as he pays the merchant and pockets it away.&nbsp; He then begins to walk slow with Vadya in tow, no doubt Troy following them.<br><br>"So, I see you have learned from my ways and have picked up a stray..." he says quietly with a grin.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 07:51:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya made a face at the little trinket.&nbsp; Faerie powder indeed.&nbsp; Dyed sand was more like it.&nbsp; She couldn't believe that people still bothered to think there were magics like that in the world anymore.&nbsp; Whatever made Trent happy though she supposed.&nbsp; When Marcos insinuated that he had taught Vadya any sort of lesson in the last two days she stopped dead in her tracks.&nbsp; "Excuse you?&nbsp; Oh, I don't think so.&nbsp; I have my own reasons for what I did and they definitely do not include you being any kind of influence."&nbsp; She didn't know why the comment had made her so angry, but it was all she could do to turn around grab Troy and start hiking in the other direction.&nbsp; She did, however, lean back to the young man, annoyance written all over her face.&nbsp; "That's Marcos.&nbsp; He's a smug, self important, jerk.&nbsp; He also happens to have an air ship and a bunch of lackeys and likes to play pirate."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 07:54:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He laughs and bows.&nbsp; "My apologies Vadya.&nbsp; Twas only a joke lass."&nbsp; He nods at Troy.&nbsp; "Stick close and we can get you fed soon.&nbsp; Looks like you may not have eaten in&nbsp; days."&nbsp; He looks around for any other guards and then nods toward an exit.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:23:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It's been a while, but I do appreciate the bit of help," Troy nodded as they headed out of the bazaar.&nbsp; It almost seemed like they were in the clear when a group of guards who were at the exit noticed the face of the man in the hood.&nbsp; Immediately he was swept up, his arms hooked together behind his back.&nbsp; It had happened quickly enough for Vadya to be taken completely off guard and all she could do was get out of the way while the thief was hauled away.&nbsp; For a moment she had thought about giving him a chance to escape, but it she didn't need to make trouble for herself by rescuing him again.<br><br>So she stood by Marcos, thoughtlessly taking his hand as an anchor.&nbsp; "He still had my vest.&nbsp; Damn."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:27:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'll get you a new one..."&nbsp; He squeezes her hand gently.&nbsp; "Would you like to stop by a clothier before we head back to the ship?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:37:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The squeeze brought Vadya back from the places her mind had drifted to.&nbsp; She looked down at their hands and carefully let his go.&nbsp; "Maybe in a little bit.&nbsp; I kind of want to sit down.&nbsp; The beach is pretty close, I can smell it.&nbsp; Do you..mind?"&nbsp; She looked into his eyes, a deep unrest could be seen behind hers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:41:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He shakes his head.&nbsp; "I don't mind at all.&nbsp; It's been awhile since I've been there myself."&nbsp; He smiles and leads her out of the bazaar.&nbsp; They pass stalls and people, shop owners and customers.&nbsp; He finally dodges down between two buildings and they end up on a mostly empty path.&nbsp; After another five minutes, they walked down a boardwalk and the ocean lied before them.&nbsp; "Would you like to take a walk?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:49:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya shook her head and walked down across the sand to the edge of the shore.&nbsp; She stopped just at the edge of the water and sat down, letting the cool of the sea wash over her feet through the straps of the sandals.&nbsp; The thief had been there for only a few minutes, but he had drudged up a lot of old feelings.&nbsp; When Marcos came up beside her she spoke quietly.<br><br>"Have you lost a lot of people in your life?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 08:59:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Ok im off to bed...good night everyone!
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 09:02:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((Wow...wrong reply box...ignore that for me please...))<br><br>Marcos nods once.&nbsp; "I have...a long time ago.&nbsp; Those wounds heal..but never completely."&nbsp; He looks over at her.&nbsp; "Who did you lose?"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 09:14:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Hah no problem!)<br><br>She nodded, he was right about that at least.&nbsp; "A lot of people.&nbsp; Just about everyone I come into contact with really.&nbsp; That's kind of why I started traveling alone."&nbsp; She gazed out over the water watching the ships out on the horizon.&nbsp; Down the beach a family took advantage of the warm day, the children splashing in the water as their parents looked on from a beach blanket.&nbsp; She remembered why she stopped coming into cities now.&nbsp; They were just painful reminders of everything she'd almost had.<br><br>The sting of tears threatened to spill from behind her emerald eyes and she quickly wiped them away.&nbsp; She didn't know this pirate well enough to give him the privilege of watching her hurt.&nbsp; She tried to put on a happy face and break the tension.&nbsp; "I'll go ahead and apologize before hand in case my presence causes you to take a sudden trip to the after life." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>16-05-2012, 14:13:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles and gives her a grin.&nbsp; "I'm willing to take that chance."&nbsp; He looks away when it looks like she is going to cry, giving her a private moment.&nbsp; He then reaches into a pouch and pulls out a leather cord with a claw holding a sky blue diamond.&nbsp; He holds it out for her and smiles.&nbsp; "Here, a welcoming present."&nbsp; When she looks at it, she notices that every one of the crew was wearing one as well, including the Captain.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 05:08:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya took the necklace and turned it over in her hand.&nbsp; It was lovely and brilliant, the diamond glimmering from the sun.&nbsp; It was a gesture of selcome to her new 'family'.&nbsp; And yet Vadya found it difficult to accept such a thing.&nbsp; "I don't...know if I can take this."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 05:10:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looks out to the sea.&nbsp; "Are you afraid?" he asks quietly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 05:39:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Afraid, she could have argued that she had nothing to be afraid of.&nbsp; As she rolled the word over in her mind though she realized that that was the exact word to describe how she felt.&nbsp; "Yeah, I guess I kind of am."&nbsp; Vadya palmed the pendant and took a breath following Marcos' gaze out across the sea.&nbsp; "You can only lose so many 'families' before you start thinking you just aren't meant to have one."&nbsp; She placed the necklace around her neck then and looked at him.&nbsp; "I hope you can change my mind Marcos."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 06:03:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiles as he looks at her, reaching up to finger the diamond for a moment.&nbsp; "One of us.&nbsp; One of our family.&nbsp; We don't use that word lightly.&nbsp; It truly means something to us.&nbsp; I hope that I can change your fear.&nbsp; I hope that we can change it together."&nbsp; He lets the diamond go and cups her face a moment before letting it go.&nbsp; He turns back toward the city and the sun begins to set.&nbsp; "Let's start heading back.&nbsp; I'll get you that vest."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 06:26:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She fought the urge to lean into his hand.&nbsp; He could talk smooth and he wasn't as rough as he tried to be when acting as captain.&nbsp; But she didn't to make their relationship into anything further.&nbsp; She stood up with him and dusted the sand off of her pants.&nbsp; "Just buy me some cloth and thread and I'll stitch my own.&nbsp; Won't be the first time and it probably won't be the last."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 07:03:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles.&nbsp; "If that is your wish."&nbsp; he grins as he leads her to a clothier.&nbsp; "Take your pick.&nbsp; On me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 07:13:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya had chosen a soft leather and strong thread to hold it together.&nbsp; It was a bit pricey, but Marcos didn't seem to mind.&nbsp; Afterwards they went straight back to the ship.&nbsp; Vadya tucked the necklace under her shirt before the boarded again.&nbsp; She didn't know why she was uncomfortable with the others knowing about the necklace.&nbsp; "Thanks, for the day.&nbsp; It wasn't as awful as I was expecting it to be."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 07:59:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods and smiles.&nbsp; "Thank you for being my companion.&nbsp; You are an excellent conversationalist..." he smiles and leans in to make sure only she hears.&nbsp; "And I'm pretty sure I had the prettiest woman in the whole city joing me for my excursion..."&nbsp; He smirks as he straightens up inner in cap again and begins to walk away.&nbsp; "If you're up for it, there will be dinner in about an hour from no, dinner in my on my chamber."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 08:58:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She mocked him as he walked away, "Dinner in my chamber.&nbsp; I'll think about it your majesty."&nbsp; She give a deep bow and rolled her eyes.&nbsp; She hated sweet talkers, she'd probably go.&nbsp; The rest of the crew was still out in town as Vadya went back to her room to deposit her things.&nbsp; She took the extra hour to start measuring and mapping out her new vest and before she knew it there was a knock at her door.<br><br>Standing up she opened it, surprised to find Trent staring back at her.&nbsp; "Steeltooth wants to see you," he said glumly.&nbsp; Trent was apparently not a supporter of his captain spending any unnecessary time with the elemental.&nbsp; Vadya frowned slightly, "Thanks, oh and..happy early birthday."&nbsp; As Trent stepped back looking stunned by her words, Vadya moved past him closing her door.&nbsp; She wiggled her fingers at him as she headed back up top.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 12:53:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When she arrives at his quarters, Marcos is once more, looking out the window.&nbsp; He has cleaned up from the day and has left his sleeveless trench hanging on the back of one of the chairs.&nbsp; He is in slacks that go over his boots, a half buttoned short sleeve red shirt and a sleeveless white shirt underneath.&nbsp; His hair is cleaned and brushed back into a long ponytail once more.&nbsp; He turns when she enters and smirks.&nbsp; "Well, I appreciate you joining me.&nbsp; I hope Trent wasn't too...impolite?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 03:56:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				From his window he can see Kira walking tentatively across to the ship, a couple of inches above the surface.&nbsp; Each foot is supported by a quick upwards current of air and she places her steps deliberately, pausing between each one.&nbsp; With more practice it was possible to walk normally but Kira wasn't overly skilled at it yet and it lent her gait a distinctive halting movement.&nbsp; As she got to the side of the ship, the curve of the bow now hiding her from the window, she strengthened the currents and swayed alarmingly as they raised her to a level where she could step onto the ship.<br><br>She grabbed a rope to steady herself as she climbed down from the railing and mentally congratulated herself on not falling.&nbsp; This time.&nbsp; The bazaar had been disappointing.&nbsp; No charts that she (or the ship, technically, though she often forgot it) didn't already own and none of the roasted birds she so enjoyed.&nbsp; Trent was walking to oversee some routine repairs and she shot him an eyebrow flash.&nbsp; He'd been in a foul mood since the captain had brought his new fancy woman on board and while Captain Steeltooth could afford to ignore it Trent was technically her superior and she had to be a lot more sensitive to his moods.<br><br>With a not-strictly-necessary wave of her hand she blew a wrench over to one of the workers and returned his nod of thanks.&nbsp; Trent nodded behind him where the new girl was just heading into the captain's quarters and Kira gave him a sympathetic smile.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 04:21:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I can handle Trent, I'm not a little girl.&nbsp; I could probably kill him if I had to before he'd even had his pistol drawn."&nbsp; Vadya hadn't bothered to dress up this time, but she was cleaned up, her white hair tied back from when she was working on her vest.&nbsp; She walked up next to him and looked out the window, catching the fleeting image of a girl younger than her walking past.&nbsp; "I wished him an early happy birthday, I think it threw him a bit," she chuckled lightly.<br><br>*****<br><br>Outside Kira caught Trent's attention.&nbsp; He met her on the deck and glared towards the captain's door.&nbsp; "I get she was wandering by herself, but she's not one of us.&nbsp; That woman is a wild animal.&nbsp; I don't trust her."&nbsp; He looked down at Kira, she was one of three elementals on the crew the other four were all regular humans.&nbsp; Well, until Vadya had joined, now there was an even number of each.&nbsp; Kira though was not one of the tribal elementals from out in the waste lands.&nbsp; "What do you think of her?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 04:35:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods and smiles at her.&nbsp; "I'm sure."&nbsp; he chuckles and then leads her over to the table for dinner.&nbsp; As they sit down to eat, he looks thoughtful.&nbsp; "Do you have any questions about anything?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 04:45:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looks at the door to the captain's quarters for a while then shrugs.&nbsp; "Don't see how she'll be much use, if we're honest.&nbsp; Figure its just going to be another person to clean up after while she gets wined and dined in there.&nbsp; I tell you, her rations and whatever he's spending on her better not come out of my share, thats for sure.&nbsp; If she works her passage, thats fine. If not"&nbsp; she holds her palm up and a tiny cyclone forms in it for a moment, disappearing when she clenches her fist over it.&nbsp; "Storms happen, people get blown overboard.&nbsp; Even elementals"<br><br>In truth she didn't overly care.&nbsp; If the girl worked her passage then great, less duties for everyone.&nbsp; If she didn't then it was no great hardship.&nbsp; The major problem, to her mind, was the effect on the crew.&nbsp; Confined spaces - and while an airship was a decent size it didn't feel like it on a long voyage - mean people have to get along and any disruptive influence could make everything unpleasant for everyone.&nbsp; If scraps, or whatever her real name was, was going to be a source of trouble then, well, any crew worth the name had ways of dealing with that sort of thing.&nbsp; <br><br>"Guess the best we can hope for is he gets bored with her soon." she finishes, more to herself than Trent.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 05:05:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya took a seat and stared at the meal on the table.&nbsp; For once in a very long time she wasn't very hungry.&nbsp; She did however fill up her glass witha bit of wine and sipped at it lightly.&nbsp; "I've been wondering, do you have any plans for when we leave here?&nbsp; Or do you plan on just flying the skies until you find something to scavenge?"&nbsp; She looked at him, eyes calm and cold.<br><br>****<br><br>Trent scoffed and put on a grin, Kira didn't look very intimidating, but she could be a fire cracker when pushed.&nbsp; He put a hand on her head mussing her hair.&nbsp; "What a weird thing it would be if the one and only sky funnel happened to board our ship while she was busy batting eyes at Steeltooth.&nbsp; I say we run her through rounds and see how well she keeps up."&nbsp; He turned his icy blue eyes down on Kira, "Have any ideas on where to start?&nbsp; I'm being kept an eye on for smacking her with a mop, so we've got to be careful on going about this."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 06:45:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oy"&nbsp; She frowns and smoothes her hair down again then sends a quick breeze through it to regain her windswept look.&nbsp; "But yeah.&nbsp; Give her the dirty jobs and see if she pulls her weight."&nbsp; She glances round the ship for inspiration and lights on the repair work she noticed earlier.&nbsp; "Lass is a savage.&nbsp; Tell her everyone takes their turn doing maintenance.&nbsp; See how well she handles a wrench and a..." she blanks for a moment as she tries to think of another tool.&nbsp; She'd always claimed that she had important navigation things to do when someone tried to rope her into working on the machinary, to the extent it was a bit of a joke on the ship.<br><br>"... a set square"?&nbsp; she finishes lamely.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 07:22:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods and smiles.&nbsp; "There's a couple of jobs Kiryuu picked up to take some cargo to the opposite port.&nbsp; And we're going to salvage on the way.&nbsp; Why?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 07:57:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya looked into her cup at the wine, swirling it lazily.&nbsp; "Just some thoughts."&nbsp; She looked back up at him with a light smile, "Pirate thoughts.&nbsp; It's nothing to run by you now.&nbsp; But, if you want some actual adventure, just let me know."&nbsp; She sipped her wine again.<br><br>****<br><br>Trent laughed, Kira trying to act like she knew anything about mechanics was hilarious.&nbsp; She had a good plan though, the newcomer was a savage and probably didn't know much of anything on how an air ship actually ran.&nbsp; If she couldn't pick up on what to do to keep things going smooth then what use could she be?&nbsp; Everyone knew how to scrub a deck, they didn't need a maid.&nbsp; "I hear ya."&nbsp; He beamed a toothy grin at Kira and then turns it into a smirk.&nbsp; "So, have dinner plans?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 08:10:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos quirked a brow and smirks.&nbsp; "Really now?&nbsp; Something fun I hope?&nbsp; Tell me what you have in mind."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 08:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She raises her eyebrows in suprise.&nbsp; "I thought you were in too foul a mood for socialising?&nbsp; You've been storming around with a face like thunder since scraps got here.&nbsp; Hell, there was talk of having a whip round to get you a bottle of rum just to keep you out of everyone's way."&nbsp; Suddenly very conscious of her hair she smoothes it down again.&nbsp; <br><br>"Ha, I wonder if I could collect that if I put you in a good..." she realises where that conversation looks like its going and trails off with a grin.&nbsp; "Perhaps better rephrase that, hadn't I.&nbsp; I wonder if I could...no, that doesn't work anyway."<br><br>"Bah" she flaps a hand "You know what I meant.&nbsp; And I'm pretty hungry actually.&nbsp; So lead on."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 09:18:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya folded her arms on top of the table and stared hard at the grain lines of the wood.&nbsp; "I know a place that houses a very peculiar item.&nbsp; That item itself is only worth something to me, but in the rest of the area there is plenty of treasure to be found.&nbsp; Enough to buy another ship if you wanted.&nbsp; But, it's quite a distance from here and the amount of danger involved might not be worth it to you.&nbsp; I wouldn't blame you for not wanting to go there just to keep everyone alive."<br><br>She took a shaky breath unable to believe she was even bringing this topic up.&nbsp; It had crossed her mind while she was sewing, but it was ludicrous to plant the idea.&nbsp; She wasn't trying to be deceitful and in fact the ruins she spoke of did in fact have an untold number of riches.&nbsp; But the little figurine she wanted to retrieve was not worth the risk.<br><br>****<br><br>Trent chuckled, "Yeah, well, I guess I'm just not thrilled with the new prospect Steeltooth brought on.&nbsp; I mean we weren't even looking for any more crew."&nbsp; He sighed and looked at the door again, "Did he take you into his cabin that much when you were new?&nbsp; I just don't want some tribal bitch getting his head all twisted around."<br><br>He shook his head letting it go and grabbed Kira around her waist tossing her over his shoulder.&nbsp; He was ready to be in a better mood with someone he actually liked.&nbsp; "What are you in the mood for m'lady?&nbsp; Other than being a suggestive tease?"&nbsp; He laughed and smacked her on the butt before putting her down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 09:35:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods as he listens.&nbsp; "I see.&nbsp; Do you know where it is?&nbsp; Have a map and such?&nbsp; Or what dangers lie ahead at least?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>18-05-2012, 09:53:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, we ate together a few times when I...oh my god!&nbsp; What are you doing!" She trails off into shrieks and giggles as he throws he over his shoulder and then a louder shriek as he slaps her.&nbsp; Breathless with laughter she pounds ineffectually on his back until he puts her down.&nbsp; Once she got herself together a but she smoothes down her skirts and punches him playfully on the chest.&nbsp; "You're an awful man Trent.&nbsp; An awful man.&nbsp; And its only because I" she continues primly "am such a generous and compassionate person that we're going to have lunch."<br><br>Say what you will about the captain, there was more than one airship where a female on board would have a very unpleasant time indeed.&nbsp; Voyages could be long and most crewmen were male - on a lot of ships it was pretty much felt that any female coming on board would get what she deserved.&nbsp; Not on Captain Steeltooth's ship though.&nbsp; <br><br>Oh sure, there was horseplay and it wasn't the first time she'd been hauled over Trent's shoulder but he'd never even let his hand linger somewhere inappropriate - just a playful spank on the ass then straight back down.&nbsp; Not that she wanted him to of course - goddamit, why was she conscious about her hair again - it was just that he never had.&nbsp; That's all she was saying.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 04:02:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent grinned and gave a lazy bow, "Well, I am cetainly honored by your graciousness m'lady of the navigation room!"&nbsp; He laughed crooked his arm for her to take.&nbsp; "There's a pub over by the wet docks that's pretty cozy.&nbsp; I mean, it isn't slammed with people, if you're interested."&nbsp; He looked away keeping his chin high, trying to act as if he wasn't all that excited to be having some alone time with Kira.&nbsp; They were friends, shipmates, that was it.<br><br>******<br><br>Inside the cabin Vadya took a longer swig from her glass.&nbsp; The sweet bitter taste of the wine kept her grounded in the immediate moment.&nbsp; As she sat down the cup she licked her lips and turned her gaze to lock with Marcos'.&nbsp; "I don't have a map, but if you gave me one I could find the general area.&nbsp; It's an old city, fallen under sands so we may have to do a bit of searching.&nbsp; And the dangers, well, between wild beasts, falling rubble and other possible search parties...we could run in to anything."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 08:20:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos thinks for some time before grinning.&nbsp; "I hear adventure calling.&nbsp; I will need to run it by the crew.&nbsp; They will, of course distrust it...so you had better make a good case for it..."&nbsp; he chuckles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 08:26:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She took his arm and returned the smile.&nbsp; "A cozy pub.&nbsp; Sounds...cozy.&nbsp; Although I'm a little annoyed that you want somewhere with few people - ashamed to be seen with me."&nbsp; She laughs before he can get offended.&nbsp; "Come on.&nbsp; If I try to lift us both then one of us will fall and I'm not gracious and compassionate enough for it to be me.&nbsp; Unless you want to get wet, we'd better take the gangplank."<br><br>She sticks her tongue out at one of the crew before he gets a chance to make any comment; it was clear he'd just been about to.&nbsp; A small breeze scatters his neatly laid out screws and she laughs.&nbsp; "Better get on with collecting them.&nbsp; I'd love to help, but I'm afraid I am being wined and dined.&nbsp; In secret."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 09:00:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent grinned and waved lightly to his crew mate, "Women eh?"&nbsp; He put his arm around Kira and walked with her.&nbsp; "I am not ashamed to be seen with you.&nbsp; I just want to be able to hear that shrieking voice of yours."&nbsp; He braced himself to be hit for his snarky comment.<br><br>*****<br><br>Vadya ran a hand through her hair, several locks falling back down in her face.&nbsp; "Couldn't you just tell them you got a tip from an anonymous source?&nbsp; I'd really rather not have them gut me if things don't turn out as expected."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 09:59:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods.&nbsp; "I could.&nbsp; very well.&nbsp; But you...you owe me.&nbsp; Keep that in mind."&nbsp; He reaches for his wine and takes a deep drink.&nbsp; "Tell me about the item you want..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 10:06:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course i do," she rubbed the sides of her temples taking in a deep breath.&nbsp; Maybe she could grow the figurative balls to stand up to the crew about why they were about to throw their lives into peril for the sake of a trinket and adventure.&nbsp; "It's nothing special to anyone but me.&nbsp; It will be made of carved wood, about eight inches in diameter."&nbsp; She thought about the delicate carved pattern and sighed.&nbsp; "It will probably look strange, just a bunch of repeating patterns inside of repeating patterns."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 10:09:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He glances at her ans quirks a brow.&nbsp; "And what does it do?"&nbsp; he takes another drink before turning to her, looking into her eyes.&nbsp; "I am all for helping my crew, but the truth comes first, yea?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 10:42:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She met his gaze and sighed lightly.&nbsp; "It doesn't do anything.&nbsp; It's just a carving.&nbsp; It just means a lot to me.&nbsp; You don't owe me this, and all that you stand to gain from it is picking up some ancient loot along the way.&nbsp; It's probably in your best interest not to even."&nbsp; She picked up a butter knife and ran her thumb over the serrated edge thoughtlessly.&nbsp; "It's just something that was given to me and I had to leave it behind.&nbsp; I just want it back."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 12:03:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos looks at her for a long moment before standing and beckoning her to follow.&nbsp; He unrolls a couple of maps of the Desert Wastes and stands back.&nbsp; "Give me coordinates.&nbsp; I will look into it with the Nav.&nbsp; If anyone knows about the places in the wastes, its Kira."&nbsp; He stretches and cracks his neck as he waits for her to pinpoint where they were going.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 20:05:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You silver tongued devil."&nbsp; When they reached a moer populated part of the city she took her arm back.&nbsp; It would probably be fine but some wouldn't like to see a human and an elemental walking arm in arm and there was no point in looking for trouble.<br><br>"Do you know where we're going after here?&nbsp; Back across the desert?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 07:04:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya looked at the map a long time.&nbsp; She placed one finger on an island and traced it through several countries, her memory working.&nbsp; Finally, after several minutes, she brought her hand to rest in the north western desert.&nbsp; She tapped her finger on the map.&nbsp; "It's in here some where.&nbsp; I'm fairly certain it is anyway.&nbsp; It's been a few years, things could have changed.&nbsp; The sands may have covered it completely."<br><br>*****<br><br>Trent shrugged his broad shoulders, "I talked to Kiryuu earlier.&nbsp; He said we have cargo to run south.&nbsp; After that I haven't heard of anything else."&nbsp; He sighed lightly to himself at no longer having her arm in his.&nbsp; But, the world was what it was.&nbsp; Trent himself wasn't really a fan of elementals unless they were his ship mates.&nbsp; Then again he wasn't really a fan of anyone who wasn't his ship mate.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 07:28:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos nods as he finishes looking at the map.&nbsp; Rolling it up and setting it aside he nods and smirks at Vadya.&nbsp; "I suppose a little adventure after we drop off some more cargo coulodn't hurt.&nbsp; Supplies are best gotten there anyway."&nbsp; He grins and heads back to the table.&nbsp; Picking up his wine, he drains the glass and smiles as he pours himself another.&nbsp; "Just remember my dear...you owe me.&nbsp; Now...come finish dinner?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 07:42:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vadya frowned at the table.&nbsp; She didn't feel right, so instead of taking up his offer to finish the meal she pushed back away from the table.&nbsp; She had only had a couple glasses of wine, the food was still warm and waiting.&nbsp; She might regret not having any later, but right now she wasn't hungry.&nbsp; "No thanks captain.&nbsp; Just call me when you need me, I'll be in my room until then."<br><br>She gave Marcos a quick look and shook her head.&nbsp; This would be an interesting voyage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 07:44:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Are we going to be in port for your birthday" she asked as she looked round the pub, then back to Trent&nbsp; "cozy."&nbsp; And warm as well, a roaring fire in such a small place meant that the overweight barman had sweat running down his face.&nbsp; Reducing the flames would be rude but she created a small breeze in her face.<br><br>"So who's paying?"&nbsp; She took a coin from her purse and flipped it up.&nbsp; She had eaten with most of the crew at one time or another and it was ship tradition that the bill was paid by the loser of a coin toss.&nbsp; Usually people didn't let her do it though, and she was happy Trent hadn't moved in time, because she did this.&nbsp; Before the coin hit her hand it was caught in a small gust of wind and she lazily turned it over and over, making it quite clear she could bring it down on whichever side she wanted.<br><br>"Heads or tails?" she grinned wickedly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>DarkNevaeh</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 07:52:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcos watched her go, taking a thoughtful drink of his wine.&nbsp; Before she got past the door he called to her.&nbsp; "Vadya.&nbsp; Careful with the next few days lass.&nbsp; This trip?&nbsp; Takes us out of our normal route.&nbsp; Means you need to get along with the mates.&nbsp; Try.&nbsp; Learn.&nbsp; Talk.&nbsp; And be careful."&nbsp; He smiles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 11:09:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The little pub was uncomfortably warm with the fire going.&nbsp; Trent wondered why they even had a fire going, it was the desert and even though it was growing dark and the air was growing cool, he just didn't see the point in it.&nbsp; "I'm guessing we might hit the next port in time, it would be nice if we did anyway.&nbsp; Why you plan on throwing me a party?"<br><br>He chuckled, but the laughter was short lived when he saw the coin.&nbsp; "Kira, come..." he sighed, he had wanted to pay for the meal, but it looked as if that wasn't going to happen.&nbsp; Or if he did it would be because she made it that way.&nbsp; In a bland voice he called it, "Tails."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NatalieB</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 14:23:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She looked a little surprised at his tone and then widened her eyes slightly as she realised the reason.&nbsp; Trying to bring a little levity back she sent a sharp gust of wind blowing it into a dartboard on the wall.&nbsp; The coin wasn't sharp enough to stick in, of course, but it made a satisfying thud when it struck.&nbsp; "Bullseye" she lied - that kind of fine control of a gust was far too difficult and while she hadn't seen precisely where it stuck it would be pure fluke if it had been a bullseye.<br><br>Craning her neck to see where it had landed she saw it had come up tails and, after leaving a long enough pause that she could be fairly sure Trent saw it and knew she was cheating she announced "Heads.&nbsp; Unlucky, sweetheart.&nbsp; I'll have the fish stew."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: From the Sands</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arcite</strong> on <strong>24-05-2012, 13:49:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trent looked at the coin and then back to Kira.&nbsp; He smiled lightly and shook his head.&nbsp; "Fish stew, disgusting."&nbsp; He sat her down at a table and then went to the bar to place their order and get two large glasses of beer.&nbsp; When he returned he sat Kira's down carefully.&nbsp; "Sorry it isn't fancy.&nbsp; I'm saving what I can for a birthday extravaganza."&nbsp; He held up his glass in cheers, "Let the booze flow free and the girls..." he stopped thinking of his present company, "dance freely."
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>