middleofsomewhere | Wings of Wonder: NPC Interactions and Investigations

There's a pause as Jingyi speaks, the front two Sali turning to each other to speak quietly, as if discussing what he has just said, debating on the next steps, contemplating this threat.

But then... Then there is a dinosaur. One of the Sali calls out in concern and there is a ripple of what can only be described as panic through the three back Sali.

Before the leaders can even call a command to fight or pause the Sali who cried out lets off an arrow, straight at Takechirou.

"What did I just say about arrows?!" Jingyi mutters, using his sheathed sword to knock the arrow off target, landing and lowering his still-sheathed sword immediately after. He is not the diplomacy guy, but he definitely knows standing around with bared weapons means he is being aggressive...

... In front of people shooting at them! Come on! But no, he doesn't need to go to that place yet.

"He's one of ours! We were all sent over to help the," his mind scrambles for the term, he heard it on the SCA, "Forever Ones! From the one on the central island!"

Yeah, names of the Forever Ones are beyond him. Hopefully his companions have that covered.

It's a good thing Jingyi is so quick to move. "AAURRRUU-?!"

Well, fortunately for Takechirou, all his posturing means he can duck down in anticipation of the arrow. Stretching upward to lovingly display the flowers on them means there's a lot of room to bring that head back toward the ground.

For his own sake, and for Kiyoiri's as well though, he just sort of scrunches down; even if there is now a sad little vanilla petal on the ground in front of his eyes. Perhaps if he's lucky the other Forever Ones will add their own flowers, and he won't feel so bad- both about this, and about throwing a wrench in diplomacy.

Dinosaur muttering and rumbling aside,, Kiyoiri clears her initial panic as best she can from her face before carefully sitting up from the now lowered rex.

"...Hemla, the Forever One of the middle island, sent us here," she announces as clearly as she can. "...Elidibus spoke to them..." Glancing back toward where the Ascian is, she waits for him to contribute in more detail. "...Please!" she calls again, trying to keep her nerves down. "Don't shoot again!"

Jingyi deflects the arrow and Elidibus is already on the move to close the distance, shield swiftly brought to bear and seeking to cover Kiyoiri and Takechirou from another angle in case of further arrow or attack.

The sword remains sheathed, a clear sign of defense rather than attack.

"We are travelers who have come to offer our aid to your world. As my companions have said, we have spoken to the Forever One named Hemla on the island we first arrived upon. Their advice guided us to this eastern island, seeking the advice of your sages."

He speaks with a calm confidence, one who is used to handling tense situations. One could even call the polite tone soothing, seeking to bring reasoned thought back into central focus.

"I apologize for the exuberance Takechirou has shown. His intent was not hostile." Briefly his gaze shifts to Jingyi. "Forgive me. Will you allow me to continue to speak on our behalf?"

The Sali looks like they might just shoot again but one of those at the front holds out a hand, shaking their head. They listen as Kiyoiri, Jingyi and Elidibus begin to speak and as they mention yet again the Forever Ones the two leading Sali step forwards.

"We will not shoot."

They look between the three... Four including the dinosaur, which at least seemed to be obedient to the girl.

"Did you come with the storm?"

The answer is, well, yes, he'll allow Elidibus to talk.

He even nods to him!

... He still speaks, because he's been shot at, knocked arrows out of the air, and remains tired, so people asking straightforward questions gets him answering just as directly.

"No, we came after. Because of the storm."

See, now he'll leave it to Elidibus to explain more! While he lets his tail lash once behind him, then settle back into a more relaxed sway.

A simple pat to Takechirou- stay there you silly fool- and the girl shakes her head.

"We come as part of a rescue and aid effort...construction, medical, and more importantly investigation- whatever this storm is, we came to banish it and repair what has been done by it."

She does not say too much however- Elidibus after all, is taking point on explanations here.

Elidibus nods in return to Jingyi. He has nothing against what the two say on their behalf and uses the time constructively... by putting away his shield on seeming faith in the words 'we will not shoot'.

He has none of course. But the situation is better handled right this moment by the display and he is confident in the ability to react if this changes. Despite the current limitations on his person.

"It's as my companions have spoken," Elidibus offers next. We have been tasked to offer what aid we can. Our group has arrived upon the central island. Groups such as ours have set out to make contact."

It isn't entirely a lie and there is a fair amount of truth in the Ascian's words. Besides they are a group now. Smoothly, Elidibus nods an apology toward Jingyi.

"Pray forgive the delay to catch up. We had some last minute business to attend before leaving the camp."

This was absolutely intended to be a group. Right Jingyi? Kiyoiri? One thing is sure. Elidibus is really good at making words believable.

Elidibus turns back to the sali commanders.

"If it is possible we would like to meet with representatives of your people and be allowed to present our goals on your world. Barring this, that we might be allowed to pass on the message to your sages that Hella has imparted to us."

Elidibus inclines his head respectfully.

"If it must be that you need take us into custody, we would surrender ourselves peacefully to your authority."

"You were tasked? By who?" There's curiosity but also suspicion. They glance at each other at Elidibus' words and for a moment there is another hushed conversations, with many glances at the three... four of them.

"You may give your message to us. Each of us represents our people, there is no need to go further."

"The giant sentient vessel that abducted us to make us heroes of the Void," Jingyi says, completely deadpan, and with his tail swooshing behind him. He looks about to say literally anything more, when—

It occurs to Elidibus that this Jingyi must be a very young dragon.

Who apparently doesn't know the definition of letting one person speak for them all. Or discretion. People might notice the slight sigh that escapes the Ascian, provided they're not distracted by the stunning candid nature of the young dragon's answer.

Otherwise, Elidibus's expression doesn't waver, nor does the polite tone of his voice which very neatly interjects over anything else Jingyi might try to say. Anything.

"My companion's words may sound confusing if you're not familiar with the Void between worlds or what we call Voidtreckers." Elidibus doesn't attempt to claim Jingyi's words are far from the actual reality. In fact, he chooses that moment to allow a wry smile touch his lips.

"The vessel that conveys us seems to act independent from its organization. And it has called us from our various worlds without consent. But many of us do agree to carry out its missions to offer aid to world such as yours. Whether we are heroes for it or simply trying to survive our circumstances is something for you to decide."

As the sali offer a counter proposal, Elidibus studies the natives of the world. Finally, he nods.

"In that case, there are multiple messages we would like to offer. First, from Hemla. The Forever One wishes to inform those whom it would concern that they are fine. They have also suggested their school can aid us. Your world's energy is foreign to us and is causing some difficulties. We would like that message to be passed to the school Hemla spoke of."

The Ascian pauses for a moment to gather his words again.

"As I mentioned our arrival happened on the central island. We have established a small camp there and would like permission to remain. Please tell your people that we are willing to offer aid. Whether it's help with repairs, rescue or escort. If you need more willing hands or someone to investigate certain areas, we may be approached. If there are those of you who simply wish to speak and learn more about us, that too may be accomplished."

Then he turns to address Kiyoiri and Jingyi. Though the latter gets a very stern look however briefly. "Do either of you have messages you wish to add?"

Kiyoiri, frankly, visibly rolls her eyes at Jingyi's words. Great job pal. Elidibus recovers for them quite well. Patiently listening, and waiting, she moves so that Takechirou can actually stand again. Best to continue any conversation without someone smushing themselves onto the dirt.

"Mm. Only a few things... Among our determined tasks in investigating the source of this storm and how to banish it, some of us were going to visit the western island... ...if there is anyone in need of help there, it would be good to know so that we can assist..."

A pause, and she looks to Takechirou. "...Somewhat unrelated though...but Takechirou as my partner, is meant to take the form of something or someone, a 'hero' who will be of most help, from my home. He took this form after Hemla got excited..."

...

"...I apologize for him frightening you, but...I have to ask if you would agree that this looks more helpful, because it was unexpected..."

"RRRrrrrrr...?" Takechirou, as much as a tyrannosaur can, looks somewhat insulted.

Jingyi, who is not unaware of the stern look but largely immune to it, simply shrugs his shoulders.

Jingyi's words just seem to confuse them and though that confusion doesn't disappear through Elidibus' explanation it does lessen, they recieve nods from the two Sali at the front.

The Sali behind mostly look confused.

"We will deliver the message from Hemla and thank you for bringing it to us. We see no issue with allowing you to remain on the central island, there are no settlements of our people there at the moment. We shall spread the word that you are to be allowed to rest there."

Another glance, at Takechirou this time. "If Hemla preferred him this way then we would not disagree, he does seem a helpful creature. There is much to be done, the storms have caused a lot of damage. We would share aid with you, if there is any assistance you require."

Like for like. A fair trade.

Elidibus leaves the matter with Jingyi at the stern stare. Even if he has plans to bring something up later, right now would not be the best time by any means to hash out How to Diplomat.

The response of the sali to the explanation does offer some insight; namely that Voidtreckers are unlikely to be known widely amongst the sali, whatever their stance on outsiders or aliens to their world in general are. At the same time, outsiders are not completely dismissed even in the midst of a threat such as the storms. And thus, there is room for future relations.

"Among our foremost concerns is knowledge," Elidibus answers. "As my companion said, we've been asked to investigate the anomaly to the west as well as other endeavors. But we're also strangers to your lands and customs. What you can offer to add to our understanding dangers and your people, as well as your needs would be welcome."

Elidibus considers momentarily. Then appears to recollect a matter that may be relevant.

"When we arrived we found an abandoned settlement and have made our encampment there. But we also discovered a number of beasts which may have belonged to the people who once lived there. What we could find and calm have been corralled and there are those tending to them as best we can. But you may wish to send someone to reclaim them soon."

As much because the train's passengers do not know the specific needs as to take the burden of their care away so they can get on with their mission. At least, that would be the nature of Elidibus's intent, along with a more positive impression to the sali.

The Ascian then pauses and glances at the other two again in case they have more to add.

Takechirou, predictably, preens at the words of the Sali.

Kiyoiri however simply nods. "Thank you. ...I am relieved to hear that," she says honestly, sighing at the dinosaur. To that end... "...All that we can ask, is for the knowledge of what dangers are ahead that you know of, and of those who need our aid." Ah, wait no-

"...Mn...though, knowing if there are any poisons to be wary of to the West is also vital, both for our safety, and for the treatment of any in need there..."

Jingyi, standing there and looking less put upon now that people have stopped with arrows and his explanation wasn't totally tossed aside (he was honest, and no, it wasn't going to make sense, but since when would it? They showed up out of pretty much nowhere!) he looks up at the group of sali and... frowns.

"What native animals are on the other islands to watch out for? What have you observed about the flying things that came in with the storm? Can we help anyone affected by the storms, is there a way?"

"Yes, those herds were ones we checked on regularly but have been unable to since the bridges failed. I thank you for keeping them safe." The Sali nodded.

"I know of no poisons West. Though what is a poison to you may not be to us, so be wary of plants you do not recognise." A small hum. "Though if you were to be bitten by a steel weaver, that would be venomous. Our largest predator on this island is the White Guardians, do you know of what we speak?"

They nodded, "The birds... We have not seen them before the storm came but there seem to be many types, we have observed birds with feathers like knives and also those that burn to the touch."

"We've yet to run into the White Guardian, as you call it." Though he does glance at the other two to affirm that. "...Our information is limited to the point it is safe to presume we know nothing."

Elidibus pauses to consider what's been said. "The birds do not resemble any you've seen before? Not even a species they might have been changed from?"

Kiyoiri nods. "Thank you," is all she says to the warnings- though it is at least clear she is taking the words seriously and holding them in her mind. She seems honest in the statement that she has no other questions- perhaps she has picked up on the method of trade the Sali so live by and respect.

...In return, then- "I will make sure to restrict any medical aid I give, to physical means," she assures. "...Bandages, splints, water...you have my word that I won't risk anyone's health with magical means," Kiyoiri says with a small bow. Given that her little medical magic involves numbing someone on contact, that is probably for the best.

"Then all birds are a problem to handle," Jingyi says, uncrossing his arms. "Don't know about this White Guardian. It's not possessed or anything, is it?"

When you have one fear.

"The herdbeasts, do they need any special care?"

"I would hope the White Guardian is not possessed. Though." They hummed. "We are not sure what the red storm has done to them, to any of the creatures of these islands. It is possible."

Which is perhaps not reassuring. "We have not seen these birds before. The storm has never brought birds in the past. Our herds are very self sufficient though the woolies can be... docile. It is best to keep them away from any of the cliffs."

They nodded at the three of them, at Kiyoiri in particular. "We thank you in advance."

That one fear earns Jingyi another glance from Elidibus. More accurately, not that he knows it is a fear. But it is noted that the dragon had asked specifically about possession and it is probably going to be Brought Up at another time. The Ascian seems mildly curious about the detail but it fades and his attention returns to the Sali group leaders.

"There is likely a great deal of information to exchange. If you have questions for us or words to convey to our people please let us know. We should soon return and let them know what we have found." After a moment's pause for thought, the Ascian adds, "Until you have spoken with your people, is there any place it is best not to trespass?"

Well, at least warning can be sent, even if it's received too late.

Wings of Wonder: NPC Interactions and Investigations

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DPS, DPS, Healer.... Tank! Okay check!

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Okay so. Elidibus. Obviously Tanks with a bulkwark of WORDS.

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