hezulion.
descanso
Scouts returning from afield have been returning with reports equally conflicting and strange: some say there’s a beast of a man running about with an axe for an arm, and that he is seen only by day, and only from a distance, as though he knows to evade pursuers. Others say that no, the large bipedal beast appears only at night and wields a stick, alongside all manner of crude tools that seem to suggest the intelligence to set small traps. In the name of research, authorities want the beast captured, preferably alive, but if it starts to become a nuisance… [ Grants Lance +1 ]
Ares prepares to leave camp, amidst wild rumours of strange beasts stalking the forest. Hunting upon human flesh. There were reports the creature, or creatures, possessing almost human intelligence. He’s not sure he believes them.
Monsters are so rarely cryptid’s and beasts. They’re people in all their twisted glory.
Fundamentally though, it’s irrelevant. Whilst he’s no longer a mercenary by trade, over a decade on the battlefield have taught him never to flinch at any foe. Ares supposes if they can bring back something interesting for studies, the researchers will be pleased. The threat posed to nearby villagers however, is a more pressing concern. The lance in his hand is weighted, a comfort that grounds him. Mystletainn hangs upon his hip and a bow and quiver are slung across his shoulder. It never hurt to prepare thoroughly, especially against threats unknown.
A familiar shock of navy blue enters his vision. His posture relaxes somewhat, Felix was one of his few classmates who didn’t force him to engage in mindless conversation. Something he was a little embarrassed to be so relieved about but he had been trained to wield Mystletainn with impunity, not make sycophantic small talk with noblemen.
“Are you ready to go?” Ares asks, already making his way to the path extending from the camps clearning. He looks back, making sure Felix is at least following. The younger swordsman’s prowess left no need for concern, unlike some of their greener classmates. There was however, only one map between them.
@violentiaed
Felix was not bothered by the prospect of battle, even if the rumors regarding the situation were horrendous. Their only gripe with such a mission was an obvious absence of information — word of mouth proved itself to be useless, with conflicting retellings enforcing its true purpose of creating panic amidst villagers. This, however, affected the Blue Lion’s student very little: they went prepared, as they always did, a scowl still perched upon their facial traits. The indifference was as helpful as most shields, and it protected much more than Felix’s physical dignity.
They searched for Ares during a small interval, the weight of the blade in its sheath providing the only sensation of safety Felix knew. It wasn’t difficult to encounter their partner for the time being, and the Fraldarius even allowed themself to admit some relief for having the mercenary by their side. Ares was a reassurance of some sorts — Felix greatly admired his skills, and his presence was far from a nuisance. They understood each other well enough, the meaningless courtesies being forgotten in the name of urgency and life-threatening matters.
Felix greeted him with a curt nod, holding back a smile. Of course, he was armed to the teeth. It was almost endearing. ━━ Ready as ever. ━━ was the simple reply, accompanied by a shrug. There was no getting around their objectives, the only way to face being forward. They followed Ares closely, preoccupied with their surroundings and any possible surprises. ━━ Do you think we’ll find an easy trail?
