#jocoserious

[Magnolia messes with the barrels outside the little shop at the end of the east pier, going inside and coming back out over and over as he fixes up the stock.

Jadis leaves the post office and slowly begins walking around spawn, trying to avoid the more bustling parts of the Wayships. Jadis notices the farm shop and the familiar cat that's standing outside of it.

Magnolia gets too close to Not be aware of his neighbour(...?). He looks at his book and quill, and then pats his trouser pocket.

Jadis approaches the distracted Magnolia. Looming over him as they stand a little too close. Magnolia looks up at Jadis, stepping back by a hair.]

[20:28:03] <[RP] Jadis> Good day, Mr. Candlewick

[20:28:28] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh, Yeah, good day 'n all

[Magnolia grips the book in his hands, shoulders tense. He eyes Jadis warily.]

[20:29:10] <[RP] Magnolia> d'ya... need, somethin,?

[20:29:44] <[RP] Jadis> I simply... noticed you... and thought to say... hello

[20:30:17] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah, uh, Howdy

[20:30:34] <[RP] Magnolia> Oh- uh

[20:30:53] <[RP] Magnolia> I've been lookin fer those cards i mentioned, havent found em yet, but

[20:30:59] <[RP] Jadis> Oh?

[20:31:05] <[RP] Magnolia> uh

[20:31:28] <[RP] Magnolia> No where to be seen, yep, but i still got a few places ta look

[20:32:19] <[RP] Jadis> I hope... you will be able to find... those cards

[20:32:28] <[RP] Jadis> Such a shame... if they were lost

[20:32:47] <[RP] Magnolia> i'm not sure either way, at this point

[20:33:02] <[RP] Magnolia> uh, they could be ashes, or just a tad singed

[20:33:15] <[RP] Magnolia> or in perfect order like the rest of the farm

[20:33:26] <[RP] Magnolia> just in th'attic or somewhere under a haybale

[20:33:51] <[RP] Magnolia> pretty organised now, but, not then

[20:33:56] <[RP] Jadis> An undignified place... for such things... but preferable to ashes

[20:34:40] <[RP] Magnolia> 's been a while since she was alive, can't help it

[20:35:14] <[RP] Jadis> Ah yes... I had been going to... ask

[20:35:46] <[RP] Jadis> Is she... buried in Ignis Fatuus... by chance?

[20:36:18] <[RP] Magnolia> Ignis... uh, That's the ol' cemetery 'round the town, yeah?

[20:36:31] <[RP] Jadis> In the swamp... yes

[20:37:24] <[RP] Magnolia> Mmmm... I can't say fer sure, no time to go 'round 'n pay my respects, but,

[20:37:27] <[RP] Jadis> I saw the name... Candlewick... on some graves

[Magnolia perks up.]

[20:37:38] <[RP] Magnolia> Really?

[20:37:51] <[RP] Jadis> Yes

[20:38:06] <[RP] Jadis> Quite old... like most of the graves

[20:39:22] <[RP] Magnolia> Well uh... m'gram was named Gloria, if that rings a cowbell

[Jadis tilts their head with a creak.]

[20:40:11] <[RP] Jadis> Hm... Perhaps

[Magnolia has to hold back a grimace, ears swivelling back for just a moment at the noise.]

[20:41:38] <[RP] Magnolia> Perhaps? You don't know, 'xactly?

[20:42:09] <[RP] Jadis> First names... are harder to remember... more familiar

[20:42:24] <[RP] Magnolia> s'pose that could be true

[20:42:38] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh.... Does Ferus stoke any flames?

[20:43:07] <[RP] Jadis> Oh yes... I think I saw that one

[20:43:54] <[RP] Magnolia> Then Gloria's gotta be there, that's 'er husband

[20:44:13] <[RP] Jadis> The graves were... next to each other

[20:44:53] <[RP] Magnolia> Good ta know the headstones 'ave survived the test of time, at least

[Magnolia relaxes. Just slightly.]

[20:46:05] <[RP] Jadis> Oh yes... age wears... but Dian hates to see... tombs damaged

[Magnolia nods understandingly. He doesn't know who that is, presumably a god or deity, but he didn't want to be rude.]

[20:47:54] <[RP] Magnolia> I'd hate to see 'em damaged, too

[20:48:15] <[RP] Magnolia> Burial upkeep is rough, now 'n again

[20:49:00] <[RP] Jadis> I have been doing my... best to help it... it's only right

[Magnolia nods again.]

[20:50:11] <[RP] Magnolia> I can respect that. Lotsa folk wish they coulda done the same, when they were younger. I hear about it from travellers passin' through

[20:50:43] <[RP] Magnolia> Takes grit and perseverence, 'specially after storms. 'SPECIALLY if you've got vandals 'round

[20:50:55] <[RP] Jadis> Dian tends to... scare off visitors... I'm afraid

[20:51:21] <[RP] Jadis> She so dislikes... the living

[20:52:11] <[RP] Magnolia> the livin'? why's she let you 'round, then?

[Jadis fidgets with its mask.]

[20:53:25] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... well... familiarity perhaps?

[20:53:35] <[RP] Magnolia> Ahh, yeah, that could do it

[20:53:44] <[RP] Jadis> She has... been looking out for me... for a while

[20:54:53] <[RP] Magnolia> Sounds like a good score. Reminds me'a cattle. They don't trust just anyone, but they're real friendly with those they trust. Not to confuse yer Dian with cattle, 'course.

[Behind Magnolia a little wolf head suddenly pops out of the water.]

[20:55:18] <[RP] Pekoe> I like cattle

[Magnolia spins around to look at Pekoe, ears perked and turned his way.]

[20:56:28] <[RP] Jadis> Oh... Young Master Pekoe

[20:56:32] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh, the-

[20:56:40] <[RP] Magnolia> Pekoe, yeah

[20:56:43] <[RP] Pekoe> Hi!

[20:57:00] <[RP] Magnolia> Don'tcha got caretakers ta look after ya?

[Pekoe climbs out of the water and plops on the floor. He is sopping wet with seaweed tangled around parts of his body.]

[20:57:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Huh?

[20:58:24] <[RP] Jadis> The good Doctor or... I don't believe I caught the others name

[20:58:40] <[RP] Pekoe> Oh!

[20:58:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Unc'a Nettle 'n Doc!

[20:58:51] <[RP] Magnolia> [Definitely remembering:] Yeah, those two

[20:58:54] <[RP] Pekoe> They're at home :D

[20:59:06] <[RP] Magnolia> 'nd why aren't you there?

[20:59:10] <[RP] Jadis> A child... should not be left... alone

[20:59:29] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm big!

[20:59:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Big 'nough to help on hunts!

[20:59:45] <[RP] Pekoe> Big 'nough to go swimmin

[20:59:58] <[RP] Magnolia> Not so sure 'bout that

[21:00:01] <[RP] Jadis> Even older children... should have a guardian nearby

[21:00:27] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah. You've got the adults ta look after ya.

[21:00:36] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm ten summers, an' the other pups all leave after two! So! I'm big 'nough!

[21:01:07] <[RP] Jadis> Only... ten?

[21:01:13] <[RP] Magnolia> Well, I guess... I can't judge.

[21:01:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Already ten!

[21:01:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Tha's what Mama says!

[21:01:39] <[RP] Pekoe> So I don' feel bad about not goin'!

[Jadis shakes their head.]

[21:02:11] <[RP] Jadis> Ten is still... young enough for supervision

[21:02:37] <[RP] Pekoe> The boat's're safe!

[21:02:43] <[RP] Pekoe> Can't even' drown!

[21:03:24] <[RP] Magnolia> Still, ya can't go 'round alone like that

[21:03:29] <[RP] Pekoe> Why not?

[21:03:41] <[RP] Magnolia> What if somethin' happened 'n you could'n tell yer caregivers anythin'?

[21:03:59] <[RP] Pekoe> What'd happen?

[21:04:08] <[RP] Pekoe> I don' stay dead! It's ok!

[21:04:11] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[21:04:14] <[RP] Jadis> You should wait... until you are tall enough... to see in a crowd

[Pekoe points at Magnolia.]

[21:04:26] <[RP] Pekoe> He's me-size

[21:04:35] <[RP] Magnolia> >:(

[Jadis glances at Magnolia and looks back at Pekoe.]

[21:04:55] <[RP] Jadis> Are you... a cat?

[21:05:28] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh, me?

[21:05:31] <[RP] Magnolia> 'least a little

[21:05:43] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm a pup!

[21:06:15] <[RP] Jadis> Then... you will get... taller

[21:06:28] <[RP] Jadis> Cat height... does not apply... to growing pups

[Jadis sounds slightly amused saying this.]

[21:07:05] <[RP] Magnolia> 'n if you don' wanna be stuck that height, you gotta eat yer... uh, prolly just meats?

[Pekoe looks Very disgruntled. Who are these adults to tell him what to do? Not his uncles, not his Mama.]

[21:07:22] <[RP] Pekoe> I eat my veggies

[21:07:25] <[RP] Pekoe> An' my meats

[21:07:37] <[RP] Magnolia> but yes [slightly aggressive:] cat height does not equate to dog height. Never has.

[21:07:57] <[RP] Magnolia> Right, yer not a carnivore 'xactly, are ya?

[21:08:24] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc says I'm a opportuny omnivore

[21:08:43] <[RP] Magnolia> You really are like'a real wolf, seems.

[Jadis' eyes slowly look back and forth between Magnolia and Pekoe as they exchange words.]

[21:09:00] <[RP] Pekoe> My Mama and Papa an' Rize an' Chai are wolves

[21:09:06] <[RP] Pekoe> An' I am too

[21:09:32] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm jus' slower

[21:09:49] <[RP] Magnolia> Hm. I guess that makes sense. Can't judge, still

[21:10:17] <[RP] Pekoe> Mama says I can be outside on my own 'cause it's safer here. An' Mama gets more say.

[21:10:23] <[RP] Pekoe> Than strangers

[Pekoe copies Jadis’ slow shifty eyes and looks at them both.]

[21:10:41] <[RP] Jadis> I thought... we were acquainted... not strangers?

[Magnolia sighs.]

[21:10:52] <[RP] Pekoe> I'on' know you

[21:10:56] <[RP] Jadis> We met... before

[21:11:12] <[RP] Magnolia> takes a lot t'be considered more'n strangers, these days

[Pekoe points at Magnolia, glaring at Jadis.]

[21:11:30] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... I was... not aware

[21:11:48] <[RP] Jadis> My apologies.... Master Pekoe

[21:12:13] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[21:12:30] <[RP] Pekoe> Did'ja know you don' drown here?

[21:12:39] <[RP] Jadis> I did not

[21:12:50] <[RP] Magnolia> Can't swim, wouldn't test that fer myself.

[21:13:02] <[RP] Pekoe> I' been under for two!! Hours!!

[21:13:06] <[RP] Jadis> You... cannot swim?

[21:13:23] <[RP] Pekoe> You're gonna drown

[21:13:36] <[RP] Magnolia> too busy writin' ledgers ta drown

[21:13:43] <[RP] Pekoe> Tha's not good, what'll your Mama say?

[Magnolia's ears swivel backwards.]

[21:14:05] <[RP] Pekoe> My Mama made sure I swimmed

[21:14:43] <[RP] Magnolia> some've us lost our Mamas early on 'n couldn't learn

[21:14:52] <[RP] Magnolia> fact'a life

[21:15:12] <[RP] Jadis> My... condolences

[21:15:15] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[21:15:22] <[RP] Pekoe> 'n no papa?

[21:15:29] <[RP] Pekoe> Or uncle? Or. The other one

[21:15:43] <[RP] Jadis> Master Pekoe... thats rude

[Magnolia tenses further, crossing his arms. His tail flicks.]

[21:15:52] <[RP] Pekoe> Why?

[21:16:10] <[RP] Jadis> It is... a personal question

[21:16:18] <[RP] Magnolia> Non'a'yer bees' wax, that's what.

[21:16:23] <[RP] Jadis> You do not ask... strangers personal questions

[21:16:27] <[RP] Pekoe> I don' have bees

[21:16:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc 'n Netty asked me questions when we meeted

[21:16:45] <[RP] Jadis> Did you not... scold us... for the same?

[21:17:12] <[RP] Pekoe> Nuh uh

[21:17:15] <[RP] Magnolia> better ta ask 'bout yer parents than 'bout mine. 'least i don't need'em anymore

[21:17:36] <[RP] Magnolia> yer still young'nough to lose yer tail.

[21:17:39] <[RP] Pekoe> I said you can' tell me what to do 'cause I don' know you

[21:17:47] <[RP] Pekoe> You don' age out of losing tail!

[21:18:13] <[RP] Pekoe> I met a wolf that lost its tail. It came to get one of my sib'ings

[21:18:18] <[RP] Pekoe> For makin' new pups

[21:18:23] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[21:18:30] <[RP] Pekoe> You can lose your tail any age!

[21:18:47] <[RP] Magnolia> can't see that bein' good fer the wolf

[21:18:55] <[RP] Magnolia> losin' yer balance like that

[21:19:09] <[RP] Pekoe> It couldn' talk to us good

[21:19:23] <[RP] Pekoe> Or turn fasty. But it could hunt!

[21:19:27] <[RP] Pekoe> An' make pups!

[21:19:43] <[RP] Pekoe> OH ! Do you have pups?

[21:19:58] <[RP] Magnolia> ....No. I don't

[Pekoe turns to look at Jadis expectantly.]

[21:20:15] <[RP] Jadis> Oh... was I included... in the question?

[21:20:19] <[RP] Pekoe> Uh huh!

[21:20:32] <[RP] Jadis> I...

[Jadis’ brow furrows.]

[21:20:43] <[RP] Magnolia> folk like us, on our two legs, it's a whole 'nother story when uh... havin' kids. er, 'pups.' more responsibility.

[21:20:57] <[RP] Jadis> No... I do not... think so?

[21:21:05] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[Magnolia looks at Jadis, eyebrows raised.]

[21:21:14] <[RP] Magnolia> You don't know?

[21:21:25] <[RP] Pekoe> Are you gonna die soon?

[21:21:39] <[RP] Magnolia> No mem'ries 'a- what?

[21:21:47] <[RP] Magnolia> that can't be related

[21:22:06] <[RP] Jadis> I... don't know if I... can?

[21:22:24] <[RP] Jadis> Perhaps.... I should've asked... Doctor Krayn that

[21:22:48] <[RP] Magnolia> Perhaps y'should, if it's concernin' ya

[21:22:26] <[RP] Pekoe> Y'make pups till you die. Tha's how Mama's other mates all went!

[21:22:49] <[RP] Jadis> Oh... that's... old fashioned... of her

[21:22:52] <[RP] Pekoe> Get too old to care for 'em an' then you die!

[21:23:05] <[RP] Magnolia> makes sense if she's uh, y'know. not like us

[21:23:11] <[RP] Magnolia> is she?

[21:23:11] <[RP] Pekoe> Old fashion?

[21:23:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Mama doesn't clothes

[21:23:32] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh, folk like yer mama aren't the same as us

[21:23:36] <[RP] Jadis> Thats... it doesnt mean... clothes

[21:24:12] <[RP] Pekoe> My Mama doesn' like two-leggers 'cause they steal her pups 'n mates

[21:24:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Says Doc 'n Net 're stealin' me! :D

[21:24:43] <[RP] Jadis> Hm

[21:24:44] <[RP] Magnolia> sounds 'bout right.

[21:25:13] <[RP] Magnolia> got a few dogs 'round the farm helpin' out

[21:25:18] <[RP] Magnolia> cats, too.

[21:25:23] <[RP] Pekoe> So you're gonna die soon. 's that why Doc talked to you? He talks to dead people

[21:25:37] <[RP] Magnolia> does he?

[21:25:38] <[RP] Jadis> No... I do not think I can die?

[21:25:43] <[RP] Pekoe> He does!

[21:25:43] <[RP] Magnolia> what??

[21:25:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[21:26:04] <[RP] Pekoe> You're like my Mama?

[21:26:05] <[RP] Jadis> The good Doctor... checked my health

[21:26:13] <[RP] Jadis> Your... mother?

[21:26:33] <[RP] Magnolia> you sure yer mama can't... die?

[21:28:03] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm ten. She's older. My last papa died of old at 9!

[21:28:11] <[RP] Magnolia> ...huh.

[21:28:42] <[RP] Pekoe> My now-Papa is four, an' Doc says he's good health!

[21:28:44] <[RP] Magnolia> Y'said the doctor checked yer health?

[21:29:03] <[RP] Magnolia> ...He checks animals too?

[21:29:06] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... yes

[21:29:39] <[RP] Pekoe> He checks everything with an' without blood!

[21:29:45] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you have blood?

[21:29:49] <[RP] Jadis> The good Doctor became curious about... previous injuries of mine

[21:30:24] <[RP] Magnolia> inj'ries?

[21:31:27] <[RP] Pekoe> Did you lose a tail?

[21:31:39] <[RP] Jadis> No... just some scars

[21:31:57] <[RP] Magnolia> scars? oh- sorry

[21:32:09] <[RP] Pekoe> :O

[21:32:18] <[RP] Pekoe> Can I see

[21:32:23] <[RP] Pekoe> How'd you get em?

[21:32:28] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... no...

[21:32:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Who'd you kill?

[21:32:33] <[RP] Pekoe> How'd you live?

[21:32:34] <[RP] Jadis> I had... to take off my shirt....

[21:32:47] <[RP] Magnolia> Y'can't ask those kinds'a things ta'strangers!

[21:33:05] <[RP] Magnolia> scars on yer abdomen must've meant somethin' deep

[21:33:17] <[RP] Magnolia> sorry fer the uh, detailin', if it's painful

[Jadis fidgets with their mask.]

[21:33:29] <[RP] Pekoe> Wow....

[21:33:30] <[RP] Jadis> Oh I... cannot remember

[21:33:35] <[RP] Pekoe> Aw dang

[21:33:58] <[RP] Jadis> The Doctor theorizes... I was a soldier... however

[21:34:09] <[RP] Magnolia> don't look like one

[21:34:22] <[RP] Jadis> I... would not know

[21:34:26] <[RP] Magnolia> y'look too... bookly?

[21:34:37] <[RP] Pekoe> It don' look like a book

[21:34:39] <[RP] Pekoe> What

[21:34:54] <[RP] Magnolia> like'a librarian 'er, well. what ya are. Witch

[21:35:38] <[RP] Pekoe> 'brarians can be fighters

[21:35:54] <[RP] Jadis> It is simply... the leading theory

[21:35:55] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc fighted

[21:36:00] <[RP] Pekoe> An' he's sticks

[21:36:09] <[RP] Magnolia> guess so.

[21:36:21] <[RP] Jadis> With the scars... and the tattoo

[21:36:36] <[RP] Pekoe> Tattoo?

[21:37:05] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... please do not ask me... to show you that... it is also... under my clothes

[21:37:17] <[RP] Magnolia> i don' wanna see no tattoo

[21:37:39] <[RP] Pekoe> Wha's a tattoo?

[21:37:46] <[RP] Magnolia> ink'n yer skin

[21:37:58] <[RP] Magnolia> they poke ya real hard, so the ink stays 'n never goes away

[21:38:02] <[RP] Pekoe> Huh

[21:38:04] <[RP] Magnolia> like a perm'nent drawin'

[21:38:11] <[RP] Pekoe> You're naked like Doc?

[21:38:16] <[RP] Magnolia> ????????

[21:38:26] <[RP] Jadis> ...Pardon me?

[21:38:32] <[RP] Pekoe> Bald!

[21:39:12] <[RP] Magnolia> i mean, most folk like us're mostly hairless, 'sides some places with more hair

[21:39:16] <[RP] Jadis> Bald...? Oh... I do not have... fur, no

[Pekoe nods.]

[21:39:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Naked

[21:39:55] <[RP] Jadis> I can... show you my hands... if you like?

[21:40:12] <[RP] Pekoe> Y'said no clothes off

[21:40:18] <[RP] Pekoe> Tha's clothes

[21:40:29] <[RP] Magnolia> gloves're prolly fine?

[21:40:31] <[RP] Jadis> I will... be generous... and allow... one glove

[21:41:08] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmmm

[21:41:50] <[RP] Pekoe> An' this isn't a trapment?

[Jadis blinks.]

[21:42:27] <[RP] Jadis> Trapment?

[21:43:02] <[RP] Pekoe> Yeah! Like...... stealing pups

[21:43:18] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm s'posed to worry about that

[21:43:19] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[21:43:19] <[RP] Jadis> I... am not a thief

[21:43:26] <[RP] Pekoe> ok!

[21:43:30] <[RP] Magnolia> no. less ya think we're botherin' ya too much?

[21:44:03] <[RP] Magnolia> not my nature ta steal, 'sides that

[Pekoe cocks his head.]

[21:44:32] <[RP] Pekoe> You're weird

[21:44:38] <[RP] Magnolia> weird??

[21:44:58] <[RP] Pekoe> mhm

[21:45:10] <[RP] Magnolia> i'm perfectly normal

[21:45:16] <[RP] Pekoe> Eh

[21:45:43] <[RP] Jadis> How... is Mr Candlewick... weird?

[21:46:20] <[RP] Pekoe> Well

[21:47:21] <[RP] Pekoe> You told me... what to do? And now you're. 

[He gestures at Magnolia who's taken visible steps away.]

[21:47:33] <[RP] Pekoe> Pushy 'n then not pushy

[21:48:03] <[RP] Jadis> Hm... that makes... sense I think

[21:48:32] <[RP] Magnolia> mmmm. Well my 'sponsibilities as an adult mean providin' care fer kids. i don' wanna make ya feel bad jus' cause i told you ya need guidance

[21:49:07] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[21:49:17] <[RP] Magnolia> too many big words?

[21:49:23] <[RP] Pekoe> I don' think I need guidance. I can swim. 'n you can't

[21:49:49] <[RP] Magnolia> well y'cant write a ledger, can you?

[21:50:06] <[RP] Pekoe> I write records on my harvests! I like numbers

[21:50:31] <[RP] Magnolia> [stubborn:] ...Okay. Right

[21:51:08] <[RP] Pekoe> How deep d'you think this is?

[Jadis silently watches the exchange, glad the attention is off them.]

[21:51:19] <[RP] Magnolia> Don't matter t'me

[21:51:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Don' you worry ?

[21:51:32] <[RP] Pekoe> Fall in, can' get out?

[21:51:44] <[RP] Magnolia> i don't walk close 'nough to the edge

[21:52:04] <[RP] Pekoe> 'n how d'you get to shops?

[21:52:25] <[RP] Magnolia> well... if i gotta, i try to keep my balance

[21:52:33] <[RP] Pekoe> An' when you slip?

[21:52:33] <[RP] Magnolia> but i don't usually shop 'less i got to

[21:52:49] <[RP] Pekoe> Slip? Fall in? Can' help y'self?

[21:52:54] <[RP] Magnolia> when i slip i got the reflexes to catch m'self. or Hal's round the corner 'n i can call

[Pekoe steps closer to the feline.]

[21:53:08] <[RP] Pekoe> Hal?

[21:53:16] <[RP] Pekoe> Big? Not here?

[21:53:22] <[RP] Magnolia> my- uh, best friend, yeah

[21:53:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Big 'n can' help if you fall?

[21:53:48] <[RP] Magnolia> eeyup?

[21:54:41] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm safer here 'n you. Where's your caretaker?

[21:55:17] <[RP] Pekoe> I swim. You don't. On water.

[21:55:40] <[RP] Pekoe> Your mama never taught you hunt

[21:55:47] <[RP] Magnolia> i don't need a caretaker. i'm 25 whole years.

[21:56:05] <[RP] Magnolia> 'course my mama never taught me to hunt, i didn't need to.

[Pekoe snickers.]

[21:57:05] <[RP] Pekoe> Like y'don' need swimmin?

[21:57:33] <[RP] Magnolia> I don't have time to swim.

[21:57:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Y've got time. Right now.

[21:57:48] <[RP] Magnolia> No.

[Magnolia takes a deep breath to calm himself. He’s trying his best with the kid.]

[21:58:34] <[RP] Magnolia> Why're you so intent on it?

[Pekoe pushes Magnolia back, using all the strength he can with his puppy arms.]

[21:59:34] <[RP] Pekoe> If y'ain' old. And y'can' swim. You're a pup

[21:59:43] <[RP] Jadis> Oh my...

[21:59:49] <[RP] Magnolia> Hey, don't play rough, kiddo, s'not very nice.

[21:59:55] <[RP] Pekoe> You're a pup. An' pups have t' learn.

[22:00:09] <[RP] Magnolia> I'm over twice yer age, s'nothin' y'need to worry about

[22:00:23] <[RP] Pekoe> Ages're diff'nt

[22:00:42] <[RP] Magnolia> how so?

[22:00:41] <[RP] Pekoe> Maybe you're pup for cats. Maybe tha's why you're tiny.

[22:00:46] <[RP] Magnolia> No.

[Pekoe pushes Magnolia back again. He glances at Magnolia’s throat.]

[22:02:09] <[RP] Magnolia> [warning tone:] Pekoe, I'm try'na say, 's not nice

[22:03:05] <[RP] Pekoe> Y'know wha's not nice?

[22:03:16] <[RP] Pekoe> Dyin' cause you're stupid

[Jadis inhales harshly as their brow furrows again.]

[22:03:18] <[RP] Magnolia> What?

[Pekoe shoves Magnolia back again. Magnolia lets him shove him back, moving slightly to the side this time so that the water isn't at his back. It is pretty obvious that Pekoe’s intention was to try and shove Magnolia into the water.]

[22:04:33] <[RP] Pekoe> Pups learn swimmin' in safe waters.

[Pekoe points at the ocean.]

[22:04:44] <[RP] Pekoe> Safe 'nough

[22:06:28] <[RP] Magnolia> I don't want to. I've got things ta handle.

[22:06:39] <[RP] Pekoe> Like what

[Magnolia gestures to the store.]

[22:06:51] <[RP] Magnolia> Stockin'

[22:07:03] <[RP] Magnolia> can't stock if m'ledgers all wet.

[22:07:04] <[RP] Pekoe> Y've been talkin. For a hour.

[22:07:17] <[RP] Pekoe> Why's ledger in pockets

[22:07:20] <[RP] Magnolia> Breaks're fine. Not wet breaks.

[22:07:31] <[RP] Magnolia> I need it fer my work.

[22:07:55] <[RP] Magnolia> I wasn't taught ta swim, that's fine,

[22:08:03] <[RP] Pekoe> Nuh uh

[22:08:12] <[RP] Pekoe> 's dangerous

[22:09:47] <[RP] Pekoe> You're not a good pup, I think

[22:10:07] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah, 'cus i'm not a pup.

[22:10:13] <[RP] Pekoe> No wonder you don' have a Mama or Uncle or Papa or anyone.

[Magnolia’s face scrunches up. Pekoe pushes Magnolia again and runs away, diving into the ocean.]

[22:10:45] <[RP] Jadis> Oh...

[22:11:08] <[RP] Jadis> That was... quite rude

[Magnolia holds his fingers to the bridge of his nose, pinching it as he breathes out slowly.]

[22:11:30] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah, well....

[22:11:36] <[RP] Magnolia> Kids're like that, sometimes

[22:11:58] <[RP] Magnolia> i was tryin' real hard t'be nice

[22:12:15] <[RP] Jadis> You did... admirably

[22:12:56] <[RP] Magnolia> but... don't think that ones got enough social 'xperience

[22:13:18] <[RP] Magnolia> don' think 'e understands people jus' yet

[22:13:47] <[RP] Jadis> I can... understand that

[22:14:02] <[RP] Jadis> I also... do not have much... experience with people

[22:17:37] <[RP] Magnolia> yeah, i mean, i don' see ya 'round often

[22:17:41] <[RP] Magnolia> if ever, really

[Magnolia jumps back in surprise when he turns to Jadis only to find them standing closer than expected.]

[22:17:59] <[RP] Jadis> I am... a bit of a homebody... I suppose

[22:18:18] <[RP] Magnolia> I'd say the same on that. can't always stay home, though, got things t'do

[22:18:48] <[RP] Jadis> I do not... but I am attempting... to be more social

[22:19:22] <[RP] Magnolia> [with hesitation:] Well... uhh, yer always, welcome ta be social

[Jadis straightens a bit.]

[22:19:55] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... how kind

[22:20:03] <[RP] Magnolia> long as y'don't try t'steal anythin 'r whatever else

[22:20:06] <[RP] Magnolia> yeah, well

[22:20:12] <[RP] Magnolia> kindness... goes far

[22:20:13] <[RP] Jadis> Oh no... I am not a thief

[22:20:22] <[RP] Magnolia> ju's sayin

[22:20:28] <[RP] Magnolia> jus'. whatevs

[22:21:36] <[RP] Jadis> I would be... delighted... to give your fair inn...a social call

[22:22:10] <[RP] Magnolia> Yes... well, uh, we're always available by letter,

[22:22:32] <[RP] Magnolia> could always just come 'round the inn side 'n sit for a spell

[22:22:35] <[RP] Magnolia> uh,

[22:22:38] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah

[Jadis steps even closer.]

[22:23:56] <[RP] Jadis> I will be sure... to do so

[Magnolia holds back a grimace.]

[22:24:13] <[RP] Magnolia> ...Gotcha

[22:24:39] <[RP] Magnolia> I'll keep'n eye out

[22:25:16] <[RP] Magnolia> don' come round later than sundown, though

[22:25:33] <[RP] Magnolia> we don't 'cept visitors after sundown

[22:25:35] <[RP] Jadis> Oh yes... it would be rude... to come calling so late

[22:25:58] <[RP] Jadis> Too much... to be done at night.. anyhow

[Magnolia feels around his pocket again.]

[22:26:19] <[RP] Magnolia> Uh, yeah, as a cemetery-keeper, that you are, I think, that makes... sense

[22:26:54] <[RP] Jadis> Oh... yes I suppose... you could call me that

[22:26:54] <[RP] Magnolia> i should... prolly git goin' though, 'less you've got more fer me

[22:27:07] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... my apologies... I have intruded on your work

[22:27:08] <[RP] Magnolia> I gotta round up the rest'a my stock

[22:27:14] <[RP] Magnolia> It's- it's, just fine

[22:27:27] <[RP] Magnolia> conversation is the fuel'a the mind, 'r whatever they say

[22:27:39] <[RP] Jadis> What an interesting... saying

[22:28:05] <[RP] Magnolia> Yes, uh.. some'a my folks used t'say it

[22:28:29] <[RP] Jadis> I see

[22:28:53] <[RP] Magnolia> i'll be seein' you, n' all that

[22:29:07] <[RP] Jadis> Of course.... good day, Mr Candlewick

[22:29:08] <[RP] Magnolia> don't be a... stranger, 'n have a good'n

[It’s mid-afternoon at the Wayships. Hal is approaching the mailboxes, humming a little tune as he opens to lids of both his and Magnolia’s. Not too far away, Pekoe clambers over a bookshelf, hunting down a scent that he had caught a whiff of… knocking over a pot in the process.]

[19:13:06] <[RP] Hal> [mumbled] ain't nothin for me, m'kay…

[At the sound of a crash, Hal’s ears swivel and he whips his head around to look.]

[19:13:09] <[RP] Hal> !!!!!

[19:13:25] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[ Hal approaches cautiously, but once he spots the young pup fully, a big smile adorns his face. As he does, Pekoe pockets the flower that had fallen from the pot and continues snuffling along, not realizing the other’s presence yet.]

[19:14:14] <[RP] Hal> Hey! Pekoe!

[Pekoe 's ears shoot up and he turns to stare big-style.]

[19:14:37] <[RP] Pekoe> I WAS GONNA PUT IT BACK LATER

[19:14:42] <[RP] Hal> ???

[Hal titters.]

[19:15:07] <[RP] Hal> Whatcha up to, little buddy?

[Pekoe scrambles to grab the pot, still sitting on the ground. Shoving the dirt back inside, he attempts to cover his tracks after realizing the cow was there to see his crime.]

[19:15:14] <[RP] Pekoe> NOTHING

[Hal watches as Pekoe scrambles around, not all too sure what the littler one was doing. His eyebrows crease down in concern.]

[19:15:41] <[RP] Pekoe> Flower!! Is ok!

[19:15:46] <[RP] Hal> .... y'sure?

[19:15:51] <[RP] Hal> y'don't need no help?

[Pekoe gently tamps the dirt around the flower roots, using some water from his backpack to water the plant.]

[19:16:46] <[RP] Pekoe> UHUH

[19:16:53] <[RP] Pekoe> All fine! Normal!

[Hal steps forward, in an attempt to check the sullied pot more closely. However, before he can get close enough, Pekoe scoots his small frame in front of the pot. The miniscule crack on the side of it has intentionally been turned away from Hal’s view.]

[19:17:53] <[RP] Pekoe> All!! Good!

[19:17:59] <[RP] Pekoe> No bad!

[19:18:01] <[RP] Pekoe> No bad!!

[Seeing that the pup is panicked, Hal can’t help but take a more comforting approach, softening his voice accordingly.] 

[19:18:19] <[RP] Hal> hey, hey...! 

[19:18:25] <[RP] Hal> y'ain't in trouble, promise ya!

[Pekoe squints suspiciously. A gentle huff from Hal, in response, and a smile.]

[19:19:14] <[RP] Hal> if sumn's wrong with the pot, the flower that's in it might not be able to keep goin'... I just wanna make sure it'll be awright, that's all!

[19:19:25] <[RP] Hal> mistakes happen, we gotta correct 'em proper-like!

[Pekoe squints suspiciouslier. This causes Hal to put a hand to his chest to show his utmost sincerity. Pekoe relaxes, nodding as he jumps down from the shelf and resumes his scent-hunt. A calmer smile from Hal, as he lifts and checks the pot, rushed in its correction. He takes note of the crack, taking to overcompensation, initially.]

[19:21:14] <[RP] Hal> hmmm... Dang. Well, I'll replace this here pot! I got some at home, somewhere, I'm sure…

[Pekoe does not look up toward Hal as he speaks, locked in and focused on his aggressive hunt. The source of the scent is near, and Pekoe is going to find it.]

[19:21:20] <[RP] Pekoe> Why?

[19:21:57] <[RP] Hal> This one got cracked! Might get worse if it don't get replaced!

[19:22:05] <[RP] Hal> The flower needs a proper home :)

[19:22:22] <[RP] Pekoe> Tiny crack! Won't bigger

[19:22:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Small little tiny. Not pup-small

[Squinting mischievously:]

[19:22:44] <[RP] Pekoe> .... 'lia small

[Hal tilts his head to the side just slightly, setting the pot back down as he does decide that Pekoe may be right.]

[19:22:52] <[RP] Hal> ... Lia?

[19:22:55] <[RP] Pekoe> your lia

[It takes Hal another moment, but once he realizes what the pup is saying, he grins along with an amused chuckle.]

[19:23:09] <[RP] Hal> Ohhhh! You mean Magnolia, don'tcha?

[19:23:18] <[RP] Pekoe> Yah

[Pekoe reaches his arm between the pot and the pillar, blindly grabbing for something scented.]

[19:23:41] <[RP] Hal> Heheheh! He might not like bein' called that, I reckon. but I'll keep that between you n' me.

[Hal continues to watch Pekoe’s strange behaviour.]

[19:23:51] <[RP] Hal> .... Watcha doin anyways, bud?

[At last, Pekoe grabs onto something and grins, pulling outward to reveal the culprit; a small chunk of honeycomb. His nose twitches as he sniffs at it, before holding it up and presenting it to Hal, proudly.]

[19:24:41] <[RP] Pekoe> Found!

[Hal looks down at the honeycomb, curiously quirking his eyebrow.]

[19:24:51] <[RP] Pekoe> Smells!

[19:24:54] <[RP] Pekoe> Yah!

[19:24:59] <[RP] Hal> Huh! Now what could that be doin' here?

[Hal gives it a sniff of his own. His cow nose can pick up the scent, as well. Traces of the familiar aroma of honey fill his nostrils, causing his ears to swivel in satisfaction as he smiles calmly.]

[19:25:11] <[RP] Hal> Mmmm! Honey's good.

[19:25:24] <[RP] Pekoe> ?? Bees? Bees honeycomb?

[19:25:54] <[RP] Hal> Well it smells a lil' like honey!

[Pekoe squints behind Hal's legs.]

[19:26:56] <[RP] Pekoe> No 'lia?

[19:27:35] <[RP] Hal> Oh, yeah! He's been right busy today, din't have time to come down here.

[19:27:51] <[RP] Hal> So i'm helpin' him out :)

[Pekoe nods aggressively, climbing on top of another bookshelf to be closer to eye-level with the tall farmer, puppy-glaring accusingly at him.]

[19:28:31] <[RP] Pekoe> 'Golia can't swim

[Hal winces.]

[19:28:55] <[RP] Hal> Yeahhhhh... He, um. Ne'er got taught, like I did.

[19:29:06] <[RP] Hal> I ain't a good teacher, m'self

[19:29:13] <[RP] Hal> Not with swimmin'!

[19:29:18] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[19:29:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Not safe.

[19:29:45] <[RP] Pekoe> Pups have to swim. Or'll drown

[A pit forms in Hal’s stomach at the mention of drowning. The thought of his best friend being in danger causing his stomach to twist. He tries to remain composed, however, in front of the child.]

[19:30:07] <[RP] Hal> Ahah, well, y'know.

[19:30:37] <[RP] Hal> He don't need to swim.... usually.

[Pekoe points at the water visibly lapping over the edge of the platform.]

[19:31:17] <[RP] Pekoe> What if.... fall in

[Hal 's ears swivel, pausing for a moment, as the danger presents itself clearer and clearer. Images begin to form in his mind of what could happen. He shakes his head, ears lightly flopping against his head as the hovering visuals get just a bit harder to see.]

[19:32:09] <[RP] Hal> .... Well. I'll tell you what. I'll try n' teach him somehow! For... The times when I ain't around to help him.

[19:32:24] <[RP] Pekoe> :O

[19:32:26] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[As Hal continues to attempt to push unwelcome imagery away, Pekoe speaks up again:]

[19:32:42] <[RP] Pekoe> He's gon' drown!

[19:32:50] <[RP] Pekoe> But!! Not!! If can swim!

[The nausea almost becomes dizzying for Hal, as a result. But he pushes through, once again. Though his voice remains unsteady.]

[19:32:55] <[RP] Hal> Guhhhhh.

[19:33:11] <[RP] Hal> Well, awright!

[19:33:26] <[RP] Hal> I'll teach him! n' it won't be a problem no more! Nope! No problem 'ere!

[19:33:35] <[RP] Pekoe> Yeah!!

[19:33:39] <[RP] Pekoe> Y'can't drown here!

[19:33:43] <[RP] Pekoe> 's nice!

[19:33:53] <[RP] Pekoe> I swimmed for all day once

[19:33:55] <[RP] Pekoe> No air

[19:33:59] <[RP] Pekoe> No drowning

[Discomforted, but still kind:]

[19:34:22] <[RP] Hal> Is that right?

[Hal tries to change the subject.]

[19:33:37] <[RP] Hal> Aaaanyway!

[19:33:59] <[RP] Hal> where's your, um...? they're yer uncles, right?

[19:34:27] <[RP] Pekoe> Netty's doin' housework

[19:34:37] <[RP] Pekoe> And Doc's doing. Doc things

[Hal gives an amused chuckle. Pekoe returns the conversation to the previous topic.]

[19:34:49] <[RP] Pekoe> I like swim-no-drown

[19:35:06] <[RP] Pekoe> One of my sib'ings drowned once.

[19:35:10] <[RP] Pekoe> 's bad

[Hal’s ears perk in shock, not expecting to be told something like that.]

[19:35:12] <[RP] Hal> .... oh!

[19:35:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Made Mama sad

[Hal frowns sympathetically.]

[19:35:36] <[RP] Hal> M'right sorry to hear that…

[19:35:59] <[RP] Pekoe> 's ok! Mama n first-Papa made new ones a couple'a years later!

[19:36:23] <[RP] Hal> Yeah, but…

[19:36:31] <[RP] Hal> I mean.

[Hal considers if he should have a conversation on loss and grief at this moment, with a young child who doesn’t seem to grasp that concept. He decides to shake his head. Surely Nettle or Doc will teach him about hard topics like that someday.]

[19:36:50] <[RP] Pekoe> Pups die sometimes!

[19:36:56] <[RP] Pekoe> 's life!

[19:37:16] <[RP] Hal> .... I-I guess so!

[Hal huffs out all his air, trying to get past the melancholy of the conversation. As he does, Pekoe sniffs at his breath.]

[19:38:38] <[RP] Pekoe> D'you? Meat?

[19:38:44] <[RP] Hal> huh?

[19:39:00] <[RP] Pekoe> 'Bart's a frog with hair. Are you? Cow that eats meat?

[Hal chuckles a bit, used to this kind of question.]

[19:39:55] <[RP] Hal> Well I ain't the same kinda cow that y'eat! But yeah, I do sometimes! I prefer potatoes though :)

[Pekoe nods, thoughtfully.]

[19:41:02] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm wolves you can tame, can't onions

[19:41:13] <[RP] Pekoe> But Netty couldn't tame me

[Confused;] 

[19:41:28] <[RP] Hal> yeah?

[19:41:38] <[RP] Pekoe> Yah

[19:42:20] <[RP] Pekoe> Your Mama n Papa, not? Cows?

[19:42:27] <[RP] Pekoe> Cows from field?

[Hal glances away, a bit sullen.]

[19:42:51] <[RP] Hal> ... Naw. They looked like me.

[19:43:16] <[RP] Hal> Y'see, sometimes two things can look similar, but they ain't the same thing, y'know?

[19:43:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmmmm

[19:43:32] <[RP] Hal> I think we got whatcha call, umm…

[19:43:36] <[RP] Hal> Common ancestor?

[Hal is unsure of himself in his explanation, but he carries on.]

[19:44:06] <[RP] Hal> But m'family n' I were differn't than the cows ya milk n' eat

[19:44:20] <[RP] Hal> same goes to Magnolia! he ain't the same as little kitties.

[19:44:18] <[RP] Pekoe> Mama makes milk!!

[19:44:22] <[RP] Pekoe> Others!! Milk!!

[Hal smiles, nodding.]

[19:44:31] <[RP] Hal> True!

[Pekoe nods back.]

[19:44:33] <[RP] Pekoe> Real kitties can swim

[19:45:04] <[RP] Hal> Well buddy it ain't that Nolia ain't a real kitty, he's just a differn't sort!

[19:45:51] <[RP] Hal> We... Don't got the exact same instincts as 'em, but..

[19:46:33] <[RP] Hal> Well, I dunno! I ain't good at 'splainin things.

[Pekoe squints. This causes Hal’s eyebrows to crease, nervously.]

[19:46:54] <[RP] Hal> .... Somethin' wrong?

[19:47:12] <[RP] Pekoe> Are you any cow? Mama's mama's mama?

[Once again, the cow is confused.]

[19:47:46] <[RP] Hal> .... Not sure i'm gettin' ya <:)

[19:48:10] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[Pekoe shoves the honeycomb back in the pot crevice.]

[19:49:27] <[RP] Pekoe> 're you just a human that looks cow? Or is. Cow? In. Like when mix wheat to get better wheat.

[19:49:30] <[RP] Pekoe> Breed?

[19:49:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Cow in your breed? Ago?

[19:49:45] <[RP] Hal> Oh!

[19:50:53] <[RP] Hal> I mean... hmm.

[Hal puts a hand on his hip, shifting his weight as he thinks.]

[19:51:40] <[RP] Hal> .... I actually dunno! Never got taught about that stuff too much.

[19:52:19] <[RP] Hal> I just know what I know!

[19:52:48] <[RP] Hal> There's a lotta stuff I dunno!

[19:52:49] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[Hal shrugs.]

[19:53:06] <[RP] Hal> guess i never thought about it too much!!

[19:53:08] <[RP] Pekoe> ... ok

[19:53:09] <[RP] Hal> :)

[19:53:26] <[RP] Hal> Sorry if that ain't a good answer, bud!

[Then, rapid fire questions from the pup hit Hal all at once.]

[19:53:37] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you hooves

[19:53:50] <[RP] Hal> kinda!

[19:53:50] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you winter coat?

[19:54:00] <[RP] Hal> .... Also kinda!

[19:54:03] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you fly-birds?

[Hal tilts his head.]

[19:54:13] <[RP] Hal> Beg pardon?

[19:54:21] <[RP] Pekoe> Birds sit on you eat your flies?

[19:54:27] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you horseflies?

[19:54:31] <[RP] Hal> Oh! Heh, not the last I checked!

[Hal comically looks around for any birds in the area.]

[19:55:25] <[RP] Hal> .... Nope! No birdies here!

[19:55:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmmmmm

[19:55:54] <[RP] Pekoe> Ok

[19:56:20] <[RP] Pekoe> Who's Goliath to you?

[19:56:33] <[RP] Hal> Goliath?

[19:56:37] <[RP] Pekoe> Cat?

[19:56:40] <[RP] Pekoe> Your cat?

[19:58:07] <[RP] Hal> ... You talkin' bout Magnolia again?

[19:58:09] <[RP] Pekoe> Yah

[Hal perks up again, with a big smile.]

[19:58:20] <[RP] Hal> Oh! well, he's my best friend! :)

[19:58:33] <[RP] Hal> I've known him since we was real little!

[19:58:51] <[RP] Hal> Ain't never been apart in all these years

[Thoroughly shocked;]

[19:58:48] <[RP] Pekoe> HE WAS LITTLER?

[19:58:52] <[RP] Pekoe> How littler

[Hal laughs heartily, amused and endeared by Pekoe’s childish perceptions.]

[19:59:06] <[RP] Hal> Yep! He was even littler back then! So was I!

[19:59:20] <[RP] Hal> I was 'bout your height, once!

[19:59:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Me-size when born?

[19:59:44] <[RP] Hal> Psh, nawww! I was prob'ly 'bout…

[Hal glances around for something to compare the average baby to. He spots the very same pot that started this interaction.]

[20:00:08] <[RP] Hal> .... Maybe that there pot!

[20:00:26] <[RP] Pekoe> Tiny.....

[Hal nods gently, still smiling.]

[20:00:27] <[RP] Hal> When I was born I was reeeeeal small

[20:00:44] <[RP] Hal> Just a little thing! Couldn' do much like that! Just toddled!

[Following Hal’s example, Pekoe looks around the area as well. Hal watches curiously as the pup scurries toward another clay pot across the area that housed a little poppy flower, approaching and pointing to its head as Hal mozied over, as well.]

[20:01:51] <[RP] Pekoe> Flower?

[20:02:04] <[RP] Pekoe> Me-size. Mama said I was teeny tiny

[20:02:13] <[RP] Hal> n'awww!

[Hal smiles as he coos, imagining what a little puppy version of Pekoe could have looked like. It was thoroughly delightful.]

[20:02:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Born puppy-shape, though!

[20:02:36] <[RP] Pekoe> Normal shape!

[20:02:41] <[RP] Pekoe> Jus' real 'ittle!

[20:02:41] <[RP] Hal> Heheh, I figure!

[20:03:29] <[RP] Hal> I bet you were cute as a button :)

[20:04:05] <[RP] Pekoe> Buttons?? Are cute?

[20:04:22] <[RP] Hal> Heheh, well I think it's just a silly lil' sayin'

[20:04:25] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[20:04:33] <[RP] Hal> Some buttons're cute though!

[Pekoe presses a button on his spider backpack, legs shooting out the sides. Hal raises his eyebrows, intrigued by it.]

[20:05:12] <[RP] Pekoe> Cute?

[20:05:21] <[RP] Hal> hmmmmmmm

[Hal muses over the button, humming as he lifts a gloved hand to his chin. He was being silly about it intentionally.]

[20:06:30] <[RP] Hal> ... I think it's cute! Spiders can be cute when they ain't gettin' vicious!

[20:06:47] <[RP] Hal> Maybe that's just me, though

[Pekoe nods, pressing the button again to retract the legs.]

[20:07:22] <[RP] Hal> Cuteness is, um....

[20:07:31] <[RP] Hal> Subjective. I think that's the word!

[20:07:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Spiders tried eatin' me 'n not other pups. Mama hated it. Mama thinks all spiders 're ugly bad evil.

[Hal winces again at the sudden information.]

[20:07:53] <[RP] Hal> woof....

[20:08:03] <[RP] Hal> yeah, I don' blame her…

[Pekoe barks at Hal after his interjection, and Hal’s ears perk up. Then, he realizes.]

[20:08:05] <[RP] Hal> ope! Heheh.

[20:08:36] <[RP] Hal> guess I did woof at ya, didn' I?

[Pekoe nods. Hal pauses… And decides to have a little more fun.]

[20:08:45] <[RP] Hal> ..... Woof! :)

[Pekoe barks big-style. He's still a puppy. Endeared, Hal continues to be playful with the pup. It takes him back to simpler times, to be silly with kids.]

[20:09:07] <[RP] Hal> Woof! Arruff!

[20:09:45] <[RP] Pekoe> You talk like pups

[20:09:51] <[RP] Hal> heheheh

[20:09:55] <[RP] Pekoe> Nothing-noises

[20:09:58] <[RP] Hal> Guess I do, huh!

[20:10:15] <[RP] Hal> Yea, I mean. Sometimes even when I'm speakin' real words I say a whole lotta nothin'

[Pekoe blinks.]

[20:10:43] <[RP] Pekoe> Like. Wawa baba booboo?

[Hal laughs again.]

[20:12:04] <[RP] Hal> Well, it's more like... Sometimes people can be speakin’ whole books at ya but they don't make a lick'a sense.

[20:12:11] <[RP] Hal> Y'know?

[20:12:19] <[RP] Pekoe> Hm

[20:12:20] <[RP] Hal> Sometimes I lose the point.

[20:12:25] <[RP] Hal> Happens a lot, really!

[20:12:31] <[RP] Hal> Mainly with 'Nolia

[20:12:45] <[RP] Pekoe> Tha's the hearer's fault

[20:12:52] <[RP] Pekoe> Talker's saying things.

[20:12:57] <[RP] Pekoe> Hearer's gotta hear gooder

[Hal thinks on this.]

[20:13:22] <[RP] Hal> Hmmmmm.

[20:13:33] <[RP] Hal> Maybe!

[20:14:00] <[RP] Pekoe> No' may-be. Just be.

[20:14:17] <[RP] Hal> Heh, awright

[Hal looks toward the ships. How long has it been? He still needs to stop by a few of the ships for supplies, he just got caught up in talking with Pekoe, who also looks, noting the position of the sun. Hal huffs.]

[20:15:24] <[RP] Hal> I gotta get goin' n' do what I gotta do, but!

[20:15:39] <[RP] Hal> I'm lookin' forward to you n' Doc comin' to the inn, y'know!

[20:15:42] <[RP] Hal> Can't wait :)

[Pekoe looks big-eyes-style.]

[20:16:15] <[RP] Pekoe> I wanna but Doc said he's busyyyyy or he f'rgets

[20:16:21] <[RP] Pekoe> :(

[20:16:34] <[RP] Hal> N’aww, that's too bad! M' sure it'll happen sometime soon!

[20:16:54] <[RP] Hal> Maybe he's just gotta get a breath of fresh air n' eat some good food :) it'll center him!

[20:17:20] <[RP] Pekoe> He gets lotta air

[20:17:30] <[RP] Pekoe> He's gota brain damage

[20:17:32] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[20:17:38] <[RP] Hal> Oh!

[20:17:43] <[RP] Pekoe> 's normal for him

[20:18:01] <[RP] Hal> I didn' know that about him! Then again I don' know much about him at all

[20:18:17] <[RP] Hal> But, maybe I'll get to know him a lil' better when y'all come!

[20:18:23] <[RP] Pekoe> He knows guns an' science an' wars an' vampires an'

[20:18:32] <[RP] Pekoe> Letters

[20:18:46] <[RP] Pekoe> All of em

[Hal nods sagely, hearing about many things he himself knows nothing about. Except for maybe the letters. He hopes. He centers himself again.]

[20:20:14] <[RP] Hal> Awright buddy, I'll see ya later, m'kay?

[20:20:38] <[RP] Hal> keep eatin' good!

[Pekoe blinks, looking at the sun. Fast goodbye, and it’s not even time to run home yet?]

[20:20:30] <[RP] Pekoe> ? Ok!

[20:20:44] <[RP] Pekoe> I'ma go find more smells

[Hal smiles as he starts to step away.]

[20:20:51] <[RP] Hal> heheh, you have fun with that!

[And finally, Hal walks toward the ships for his supplies, like he promised. And Pekoe splits off also, sniffing the air before stalking toward some barrels.]

[There is a hustle and bustle of people moving about spawn as they go about their daily tasks, shopping. Several figures loiter about spawn, waiting to see the Magician whose posters have littered the entrance for several days…]

[Viola scribbles in a book as she leans against a post. She turns to check the poster, hopefully she's here on time?]

[19:16:58] <[RP] Viola> Hmm. Well, it's Sunday. It's evening.

[A shadow falls over Viola as someone very tall reads the poster over her shoulder.]

[19:17:47] <[RP] Viola> Hmm?

[19:17:51] <[RP] Viola> Woah! Hey-

[19:18:00] <[RP] Viola> Can I help you?

[19:18:06] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... Apologies miss

[19:18:18] <[RP] Jadis> I was.. merely reading the poster

[19:18:49] <[RP] Viola> Oh, ah, of course.

[19:19:03] <[RP] Viola> There's supposed to be some sort of "Magician Consultant" here today.

[19:19:22] <[RP] Viola> I wanted to see if it's the real deal, or just like, a fancy party trick

[19:19:28] <[RP] Jadis> Yes... I am quite curious to see them as well

[19:20:15] <[RP] Viola> Oh, sure, sure.

[Viola sticks out her hand.]

[19:20:44] <[RP] Viola> I'm Viola

[Jadis accepts with their gloved hand, nails clearly quite long under the fabric]

[19:21:20] <[RP] Jadis> Jadis Degaré

[19:21:28] <[RP] Jadis> A pleasure, Miss Viola

[19:21:46] <[RP] Viola> Very nice to meet you as well. Are you new around here? I know most of the people who live here

[19:21:59] <[RP] Jadis> I have been here... quite some time

[19:22:35] <[RP] Viola> Oh! Just must've never crossed paths. I'm usually all over the world, so strange that it didn't happen

[19:22:49] <[RP] Viola> Well, happen sooner, I should say

[19:22:57] <[RP] Jadis> The world is large Miss Viola

[19:23:01] <[RP] Jadis> but I have… been around

[19:23:34] <[RP] Viola> Don't have to tell me twice, I've barely been out past the desert in the West, and people say that there are temples buried under the sand far further than there

[19:23:47] <[RP] Jadis> How... fascinating

[Magnolia stands next to Hal cautiously, waiting for something to happen- someone to appear.]

[19:18:21] <[RP] Magnolia> [quietly, to Hal:] don't suppose the clock was wrong. seems like there's a few folks at the poster...

[19:19:25] <[RP] Magnolia> just don't stray too far. it's busy out here today

[Hal looks down at Magnolia, smiling gently with a nod]

[19:19:40] <[RP] Hal> awright, lead the way

[Magnolia stamps his feet onto the planks below, frustrated by a wait time he's put onto himself alone. An ear flicks, and he stomps over to the posters with the same energy, not facing the two by them and trying to just read the poster again.]

[Hal mosies along gently behind his smaller friend.]

[19:24:33] <[RP] Magnolia> Doesn' it take little effort to be on time for somethin you planned yourself???

[19:24:57] <[RP] Hal> Aw, settle down, Nolia, hah

[Jadis turns to Magnolia and Hal.]

[19:24:52] <[RP] Jadis> Ah. Misters Candlewick and Copperboot

[19:24:54] <[RP] Viola> Woah, lots of people here today for this thing, huh

[19:25:05] <[RP] Viola> Candlewick and Copperboot...?

[19:25:07] <[RP] Magnolia> gggggh., Hello

[19:25:15] <[RP] Hal> howdy!

[19:25:32] <[RP] Hal> you must be, ummh...

[19:25:34] <[RP] Magnolia> Right. Howdy. I'm Magnolia. Candlewick's the last name

[Hal struggles to come up with a name for a new face.]

[19:25:47] <[RP] Magnolia> You uh. Seem kinda f'miliar

[19:26:09] <[RP] Magnolia> But I don't know you. I kinda.... know you? 

[Magnolia gestures to Jadis vaguely.]

[19:26:35] <[RP] Jadis> Yes. In passing

[19:26:30] <[RP] Viola> Where do I know you two...?

[Viola taps her fingers on the back of her book]

[19:26:58] <[RP] Magnolia> [Bristling:] Kindlewheat Farm. We bring much as we can to the market.

[19:27:14] <[RP] Magnolia> I 'magine it's prob'ly that

[19:27:38] <[RP] Jadis> Such... a lovely farm. I have seen it from town.

[19:27:50] <[RP] Hal> n'aww, thank ya kindly…

[Doc idly walks a little way away from the group, watching Ion skulk around above the people milling about spawn.]

[Viola snaps her fingers]

[19:28:03] <[RP] Viola> The Froglight Festival! It was maybe fifteen years ago, but you two were trying to see how many frogs you could catch by the old docks!

[19:28:15] <[RP] Hal> !

[19:28:25] <[RP] Hal> shucks, you remember somethin' like that?

[19:28:47] <[RP] Magnolia> Tha's prob'ly right.

[Viola taps her temple]

[19:28:55] <[RP] Viola> I've got the best memory of anyone I know

[19:29:49] <[RP] Jadis> A good memory... is quite a blessing

[19:29:09] <[RP] Hal> 'scuse me, can't say the same about m'self, hah!

[19:29:19] <[RP] Viola> Hmm?

[19:29:20] <[RP] Viola> Oh!

[19:29:24] <[RP] Viola> Viola. I'm Viola

[Hal extends a hand to Viola, for a firm handshake]

[19:29:49] <[RP] Hal> Hal Copperboot!

[Viola shakes Hal's hand firmly.]

[19:30:01] <[RP] Viola> Very nice to re-meet you

[19:29:53] <[RP] Magnolia> [in an unhappy tone:] Right happy to meet ya.

[Viola looks at Magnolia]

[19:30:11] <[RP] Viola> And you...

[19:30:15] <[RP] Viola> Did you have a sister?

[Magnolia stiffens for a moment before settling himself back down, realigning himself next to Hal.]

[19:30:52] <[RP] Magnolia> No, I didn't. Only child.

[19:30:57] <[RP] Viola> Oh...

[19:30:59] <[RP] Viola> Oh!

[19:31:07] <[RP] Viola> Very nice to re-meet you as well, then

[19:31:29] <[RP] Magnolia> Yeah, well... nice to meet you 'n all that

[Ion swoops down towards the group on elytra, appearing before them suddenly in a burst of fireworks.]

[19:31:40] <[RP] Viola> Woah!

[19:31:45] <[RP] Jadis> Oh…

[Magnolia scrambles backwards in surprise.]

[19:31:45] <[RP] Ion> hulloo future clients

[Hal startles just a bit from the loud sound, ears perking as he goes to grab for Magnolia protectively.]

[19:32:49] <[RP] Hal> Uhh! quite the entrance, there, hah!

[19:31:55] <[RP] Ion> apologies for my tardiness

[Doc follows Ion to the group.]

[19:31:58] <[RP] Doc> Mnm, so that's what you were doing up there.

[19:32:07] <[RP] Ion> hows it going folks?

[19:32:19] <[RP] Jadis> I am.. well

[Viola gives a little round of applause]

[19:32:35] <[RP] Ion> thank you thank you

[19:32:48] <[RP] Magnolia> You oughta be less tardy if you're wantin' to make good impressions!

[19:32:51] <[RP] Ion> i am the magician, ion by name

[19:33:11] <[RP] Ion> i will be your world's resident consultant

[19:33:17] <[RP] Ion> lucky folks

[19:33:22] <[RP] Magnolia> consultant?

[19:33:44] <[RP] Ion> specialising in potions, but with expertise in transport and animatus

[19:33:50] <[RP] Ion> speaking of which

[19:34:10] <[RP] Hal> ?

[19:34:16] <[RP] Ion> gifts of the trade

[Ion hands a sack to each person, the clink of gems and bottles can be heard]

[19:34:23] <[RP] Doc> What is this supposed to be, a gift bag?

[19:34:47] <[RP] Ion> providing modern magical technologies alongside an assortment of magical items

[Jadis peers into the bag it was handed. Inside is a potion, a cake, some amethyst & coal, a waystone, and a warp stone.]

[19:34:50] <[RP] Jadis> An array of items....

[19:35:07] <[RP] Viola> How interesting...

[19:35:30] <[RP] Ion> if you should have any questions, hesitate not. I am still setting up the establishment, but we should be fully functional in no time

[19:35:40] <[RP] Doc> Establishment?

[19:36:03] <[RP] Magnolia> Why would we want these 'magical technologies'?

[19:36:20] <[RP] Ion> for ease of transport mainly here

[19:37:00] <[RP] Magnolia> Ease of transport? We've got 'orses

[Hal takes a peek into the sack he was given.]

[19:35:51] <[RP] Hal> aw shoot, nolia! lookie here!

[19:36:06] <[RP] Magnolia> Huh?

[19:36:14] <[RP] Hal> there's some pretty little gems in here!

[19:36:22] <[RP] Doc> Ooh, gems?

[19:36:32] <[RP] Magnolia> Looks like amethyst... I think?

[Pekoe lands in a scrambled roll at spawn, elytra tucked in. He looks around and spots Doc.]

[19:36:36] <[RP] Jadis> Modern magicks?

[19:36:51] <[RP] Jadis> Would you.. elaborate miss?

[19:36:59] <[RP] Ion> of course

[19:37:06] <[RP] Viola> I'm also very, very curious about how this works

[19:37:06] <[RP] Ion> this seems an old world

[19:37:13] <[RP] Ion> old magics abound

[19:37:23] <[RP] Ion> but developments have been made

[19:37:41] <[RP] Ion> i hark from the central worlds, where magicians work on new technologies

[19:37:48] <[RP] Ion> like these warp stones

[19:38:01] <[RP] Ion> no longer do you need to travel to a special point

[19:38:05] <[RP] Viola> ...Woah, all the way from the core worlds?

[19:38:14] <[RP] Ion> they allow instantaneous transport

[19:38:23] <[RP] Ion> yes the core worlds exactly

[Pekoe quietly sneaks around to stand behind Doc, grabbing his leg.]

[Doc jolted for a moment, glancing down and seeing the child, he returned to the conversation.]

[19:38:29] <[RP] Doc> Oh, the core worlds? What does that mean?

[19:38:39] <[RP] Doc> Who are you? What's your name.

[19:38:46] <[RP] Ion> i go by ion

[19:39:01] <[RP] Ion> you may call me magician ion for now i suppose

[19:39:02] <[RP] Doc> Like the charged particle, ion?

[19:39:04] <[RP] Magnolia> core worlds're big-name worlds full'a loads of big folks who don't know simple ways.

[19:39:12] <[RP] Viola> Is it true that there are libraries there bigger than a mountain?

[19:39:37] <[RP] Doc> ...Wouldn't that depend on how big the mountain is?

[Ion focuses on Magnolia]

[19:39:41] <[RP] Ion> I object to that statement, I'm afraid I don't know your name, feline?

[19:39:54] <[RP] Magnolia> It's Magnolia Candlewick.

[19:40:00] <[RP] Magnolia> Don't call me that.

[19:40:13] <[RP] Ion> i see

[Hal scratches the back of his head awkwardly, with a nervous grin.]

[19:40:51] <[RP] Magnolia> I'm sayin' that core world folks are too high strung in their luxuries to enjoy a good pot roast. or Horses! a waystone, really?

[Viola begins to jot down notes in her book.]

[19:41:22] <[RP] Ion> a good folk like yourself, I suppose I will need to learn the lay of the land from you

[19:41:23] <[RP] Hal> they're just different from us folk, Nolia! don't mean they ain't good people, too!

[Magnolia shuffles in his spot.]

[19:41:51] <[RP] Magnolia> Fine, fine

[19:41:16] <[RP] Doc> What's a core world?

[19:42:09] <[RP] Magnolia> Can someone answer that question? I'm not good at explainin'

[19:42:20] <[RP] Viola> Oh, the core worlds?

[19:42:25] <[RP] Ion> a core world is an interconnected community of folks from many different worlds, but it's true I'm new here. there are all sorts of plants that i need to learn to incorporate in my daily magics after al

[19:43:09] <[RP] Viola> They're also filled with ancient knowledge, different spirits and gods, and SO MUCH forgotten lore

[19:43:14] <[RP] Viola> Oh to travel to a core world...

[Pekoe crawls on top of the waystone to see everyone, frustrated with having to duck around it to stare at Viola and Ion]

[19:43:30] <[RP] Doc> Everything is filled with spirits and gods

[19:43:46] <[RP] Viola> Sure, sure, but the core worlds have DIFFERENT ones

[19:43:49] <[RP] Viola> Can you imagine?

[19:44:02] <[RP] Magnolia> There's spirits 'n gods here. they're good'nough for me.

[19:44:13] <[RP] Viola> Oh yeah, this place is filled with lots of that stuff from wayyyy back in the day

[19:44:16] <[RP] Doc> No. Dead gods are still gods. All of them are the same everywhere and they all exist in all worlds

[19:43:14] <[RP] Jadis> There is... old witchcraft here.... you could perhaps reference

[Ion turns to Jadis]

[19:43:51] <[RP] Ion> old witchcraft you say?

[19:44:17] <[RP] Jadis> I am... a practicer myself

[Viola points at Jadis]

[19:44:38] <[RP] Viola> We're gonna have a conversation later

[19:44:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Does that make you a witchcrafter?

[19:44:37] <[RP] Ion> intriguing

[19:44:53] <[RP] Jadis> A witch. Young master wolf

[19:45:09] <[RP] Doc> And what quite does that entail?

[19:46:01] <[RP] Jadis> Depends on your... interests I suppose

[19:45:54] <[RP] Ion> this appears to be a group of people that can aid greatly in the magic development of this world. We should have tea sometime

[19:45:55] <[RP] Magnolia> a witch? like those folk that sacrifice animals to the nether rather than spirits?

[19:46:25] <[RP] Doc> You can sacrifice anything to anyone, that doesn't matter a tick

[19:46:43] <[RP] Magnolia> I s'pose... 

[Magnolia’s tail flicks]

[19:46:47] <[RP] Jadis> I have… no interest… in the nether beyond its sand

[19:47:02] <[RP] Doc> Everyone is some amount of dead, after all

[Ion glances at Doc, momentarily distracted.]

[19:47:52] <[RP] Pekoe> [whispered:] Doc, how many dead 'm I?

[19:48:11] <[RP] Doc> [whispers:] You're on the far not dead side of the scale.

[Pekoe nods gravely]

[19:48:20] <[RP] Ion> well, should you have questions of a magical nature, I am the one to which you can address those

[Hal scratches at his nose, placing a hand on his hip as he listens to these people talk about something he has no clue about.]

[19:48:41] <[RP] Hal> That's, uhh

[19:48:45] <[RP] Hal> Nice n' all!

[19:48:52] <[RP] Doc> What if I do not want to do that.

[19:48:55] <[RP] Jadis> I will... be sure to take you up on your offer... of tea sometime

[19:49:02] <[RP] Ion> fantastic

[19:49:08] <[RP] Hal> I think this is a lotta stuff for a simple feller like me, I'm good how I am!

[19:49:17] <[RP] Hal> Thank ya kindly, though!

[Viola finishes scribbling in her book]

[19:49:21] <[RP] Viola> Oh I have SO many questions

[19:49:21] <[RP] Ion> my good sir, doc? is it? It appears your son is curious at least

[19:49:36] <[RP] Doc> My what?

[19:49:45] <[RP] Ion> your ... child?

[Viola points at Pekoe]

[19:50:08] <[RP] Viola> The little guy on the stone

[Pekoe stares at Doc. He doesn't remember what son means.]

[19:50:39] <[RP] Doc> This is a sentient wolf.

[19:50:48] <[RP] Doc> Go on, introduce yourself

[19:50:56] <[RP] Pekoe> My name is Pekoe! My mama and papa are wolves

[19:51:02] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm a wolves!

[19:51:23] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc's my.... aunt?

[19:51:28] <[RP] Ion> oh, my apologies for the error, we see all sorts of families on core worlds you see

[19:51:36] <[RP] Ion> aunt, got it

[19:51:38] <[RP] Doc> Sure. Close enough

[Pekoe grins proudly. He still has baby teeth to lose]

[19:51:20] <[RP] Jadis> A pleasure, young Master Pekoe

[Pekoe stares at Jadis. Jadis stares back]

[19:52:22] <[RP] Pekoe> You have hunter eyes

[19:52:42] <[RP] Jadis> My thanks? For the... compliment

[Pekoe blinks. Jadis does not.]

[19:52:35] <[RP] Doc> I do not bring my children with me when I travel.

[19:52:53] <[RP] Doc> Not when I do not know the content of the world

[19:53:15] <[RP] Ion> ah, a fellow traveller, good good

[Pekoe's tail wags, and he hops down from the waystone]

[19:53:39] <[RP] Doc> Why is that good.

[19:54:06] <[RP] Pekoe> 're you gonna sacrifices Doc?

[19:54:09] <[RP] Ion> just nice to have folk on the same page here, is all

[19:54:20] <[RP] Doc> No, I worship no god.

[19:54:36] <[RP] Pekoe> No, no, is . [points at Ion] That guy gonna sacrifices YOU

[19:55:04] <[RP] Doc> Oh! Well, they wouldn't be the first to try. But no. No one is going to sacrifice me.

[Pekoe nods, and starts staring at Hal. It’s never seen someone so big.]

[19:54:42] <[RP] Magnolia> y'want folk on the same page so you can spread about your magic, I assume?

[19:55:00] <[RP] Magnolia> I won't have any quarrel with ya unless you're hurtin' people or ruinin' the land

[Hal nods, agreeing with Magnolia]

[19:55:05] <[RP] Ion> I would like to help out in what way I can, yes

[19:55:05] <[RP] Magnolia> That's all I ask

[19:55:24] <[RP] Magnolia> Well....... alright.

[19:55:49] <[RP] Ion> i would never want quarrel with the honest folk of this world

[19:55:44] <[RP] Viola> Then welcome to the world Magician Ion!

[19:55:57] <[RP] Ion> thank you kindly for that

[19:56:45] <[RP] Magnolia> Well... yeah, welcome

[Hal notices there's a tiny set of eyes on him, glancing over]

[19:56:20] <[RP] Hal> [smiling warmly:] Hey, lil' bud..!

[Pekoe big ol' autism stare, jumps at the acknowledgement]

[19:56:47] <[RP] Pekoe> H-hi!

[Hal gives an endeared chuckle.]

[19:57:05] <[RP] Magnolia> if you're goin' hungry you're free to barter with us farm folk. We've got plenty.

[19:57:40] <[RP] Pekoe> My Unc'a Netty has farms, too

[Hal gives a friendly grin. He has a missing tooth and his smile is a little crooked.]

[19:58:04] <[RP] Hal> No kiddin'?

[19:58:07] <[RP] Magnolia> Lots'a folk've got farms.

[19:58:19] <[RP] Pekoe> Yeah!! And he let me make em bigger!!!

[19:58:26] <[RP] Pekoe> They're SO bigger!

[19:58:29] <[RP] Magnolia> You?

[19:58:42] <[RP] Pekoe> Me!

[Pekoe looks very proud of this, tail wagging.]

[19:59:17] <[RP] Hal> N'aww! I bet you're gettin' real strong doin' a lotta that work, huh?

[19:59:26] <[RP] Magnolia> [Awkwardly:] That's a lotta work.

[Pekoe nods vigorously, practically vibrating with excitement.]

[19:59:46] <[RP] Hal> I bet you'll be just as big as me, one day!

[Hal puffs out his chest with a wink at Pekoe, who giggles]

[20:00:15] <[RP] Pekoe> You're really big!

[Hal grins again, with a soft, fond chuckle.]

[20:00:30] <[RP] Hal> Yup!

[20:00:49] <[RP] Hal> I got this big doin' lots of work on the farm n' eatin' all my veggies!

[Pekoe looks at Magnolia]

[20:00:38] <[RP] Pekoe> You're me-sized

[20:00:44] <[RP] Pekoe> How big're you gonna get?

[Magnolia’s tail flicks]

[20:01:08] <[RP] Magnolia> Not any bigger, I'm stuck like this.

[20:01:24] <[RP] Hal> Well, you're still strong too, Nolia!

[20:01:39] <[RP] Magnolia> I'd be stronger if I wasn't the size of a tomato.

[20:02:06] <[RP] Pekoe> You're like... 5 tomatoes

[20:01:53] <[RP] Pekoe> Did you forget to cook the veggies before eating 'em? Doc says I have to cook half of 'em or else I don't get all the nutrents

[Hal puts a comforting hand on Magnolia's shoulder]

[20:02:23] <[RP] Magnolia> I cook all my food! I'm a very good cook

[20:02:31] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmmmm

[20:02:33] <[RP] Hal> Even if ya ain't as big as me, you've still gotta ton of stuff i ain't got!

[20:02:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Not a better cook than Unc'a Netty, I bet

[20:02:48] <[RP] Hal> ya run a whole inn!

[20:03:19] <[RP] Magnolia> I run an inn with a whole breakfast assortment. I'm a pretty dang good cook.

[20:03:28] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmmmmm

[20:03:55] <[RP] Pekoe> Unc'a Netty's got the best food

[20:04:07] <[RP] Magnolia> [in a dry doubtful tone:] I'm sure.

[While Pekoe talks to the farmers the others continue talking about more magical topics:]

[19:57:10] <[RP] Doc> You [he points at Jadis] Tell me about your interest in the nether sands.

[19:57:46] <[RP] Jadis> Ghosts and.... souls. Are an area of interest.... for me

[Ion also intrigues before getting distracted by Viola]

[19:58:33] <[RP] Doc> Mnm, delightful. We may have to converse at a later time.

[19:58:46] <[RP] Jadis> Of course..... good Doctor

[Doc cracks a.. weird smile.]

[19:59:21] <[RP] Jadis> How rude of me... I have not... introduced myself to you

[19:59:31] <[RP] Doc> And not I to you

[19:59:37] <[RP] Jadis> Jadis Degaré

[20:00:38] <[RP] Doc> A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I'm Doctor Krayn, though most choose to use the nickname

[Neither offers their hand to shake. The two simply observe each other.]

[20:01:14] <[RP] Jadis> An honorable profession.... Doctor Krayn

[20:02:15] <[RP] Doc> Well, I'm glad you think so.

[Jadis stiffly nods in acknowledgement.]

[Doc turns to watch Pekoe talk to Magnolia and Hal. Jadis turns to watch Viola and Ion.]

[19:58:53] <[RP] Viola> Magician Ion, you have to tell me all about the core world you came from

[19:59:10] <[RP] Ion> oh, thats a long story, far too long for right now i fear

[19:59:27] <[RP] Viola> Oh, really? Dang, that's too bad

[19:59:53] <[RP] Viola> If you ever need to learn anything about our world, or have any books you want to trade, I run the library system! I'm always...somewhere in the world

[19:59:53] <[RP] Ion> but tell me about you my lady, I believe you are a local here?

[20:00:08] <[RP] Viola> I am indeed

[20:01:01] <[RP] Viola> Born and raised here, and now I work to keep the library stocked, and go out to the temples and shrines to find more research about the world

[20:01:09] <[RP] Viola> There's a lot here, it's a pretty old place

[20:01:41] <[RP] Ion> fascinating, this library, i will have to visit at some point

[20:01:57] <[RP] Viola> PLEASE you're the most interesting thing to blow into town in a while

[20:03:42] <[RP] Ion> that's quite the compliment

[Ion glances at a nearby clock]

[20:03:53] <[RP] Ion> oh i would love to chat more

[20:04:02] <[RP] Ion> but i must keep track of the time

[20:04:15] <[RP] Viola> Oh, of course. Can't keep a busy magician!

[20:04:18] <[RP] Ion> i have a personal project to attend to, i'm afraid

[20:04:32] <[RP] Ion> but lets chat sometime soon, my good lady

[20:04:39] <[RP] Viola> Aw, well it was great to meet you, and thank you for the gift

[20:04:49] <[RP] Viola> I'm so looking forward to it

[20:05:03] <[RP] Jadis> Farewell, Miss Ion

[20:05:06] <[RP] Ion> and for all you folks, i am happy to serve as your humble magician consultant

[20:05:13] <[RP] Ion> fare thee well for now

[A burst of fireworks light at Ion’s feet and they disappear in the puff of smoke]

[20:05:47] <[RP] Viola> Woah! Just disappeared

[20:05:53] <[RP] Viola> That Magician is something else…

[Hal startles from the loud sound]

[20:05:54] <[RP] Hal> shoo-wee!

[20:06:04] <[RP] Magnolia> Don't they know some'f us have sensitive ears???

[20:06:14] <[RP] Doc> Magician, what a title for yourself. Sounds like a gimmick

[20:06:20] <[RP] Jadis> An intriguing sort...

[20:06:30] <[RP] Viola> I mean, coolest thing to happen here in a while

[Hal places a hand over his chest, taking a breath.]

[20:06:30] <[RP] Magnolia> You'kay, Hallie?

[Hal smiles at Magnolia, with a nod]

[20:06:49] <[RP] Hal> i'm good! i'm good…

[Magnolia relaxes slightly]

[20:07:01] <[RP] Magnolia> Okay...

[Viola notices Jadis silently observing everyone.]

[20:06:47] <[RP] Viola> Oh, Jadis, right?

[Jadis’ head slowly turns to look at Viola]

[20:06:53] <[RP] Jadis> Yes...

[20:06:54] <[RP] Viola> You said something earlier about witchcraft?

[20:07:00] <[RP] Viola> You're really a witch?

[20:07:09] <[RP] Jadis> I... am

[20:07:23] <[RP] Viola> This day just keeps getting better!

[20:07:32] <[RP] Viola> Maybe this letter will finally get them to come visit...

[20:07:41] <[RP] Jadis> I have been practicing... for a long as I ... can remember

[20:07:54] <[RP] Viola> Oh my gods, what sort of practice do you do?

[20:08:06] <[RP] Viola> Do you have tomes? A grimoire?

[20:08:20] <[RP] Viola> Something even cooler???

[20:08:26] <[RP] Jadis> Books are a useful.... resource, yes

[Viola beams]

[20:08:40] <[RP] Jadis> I also... deal in cards

[20:08:44] <[RP] Viola> Cards?

[20:08:48] <[RP] Viola> Like playing cards?

[20:08:55] <[RP] Jadis> In... a way

[20:09:17] <[RP] Viola> Oh wow, even playing cards could be used for witchcraft...

[20:09:32] <[RP] Jadis> They can be... quite useful

[20:09:58] <[RP] Viola> Super, super cool

[20:10:00] <[RP] Jadis> They provide... information... usually

[20:10:36] <[RP] Viola> Have you always had your materials? Where do you get them? Do you make them yourself??

[20:10:51] <[RP] Jadis> Some... are found... some... were made

[20:11:14] <[RP] Viola> Woah. Woah! I've gotta be writing this down

[Viola flips open her books and begins writing.]

[20:11:51] <[RP] Jadis> You have an interest... in magicks... Miss Viola?

[Viola laughs almost awkwardly, pushing up her glasses.]

[20:12:09] <[RP] Viola> I have an interest in everything

[20:12:27] <[RP] Jadis> How lovely... to be passionate about so much

[20:12:47] <[RP] Viola> I think I'd go crazy if I didn't have some sort of passion

[20:13:55] <[RP] Viola> Would you ever be able to show me some of your books?

[20:14:08] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... possibly...

[20:14:22] <[RP] Jadis> I am afraid I am rather... disorganized

[Viola laughs almost too loudly]

[20:14:40] <[RP] Viola> Oh girl, you haven't seen my office

[20:14:51] <[RP] Viola> I'm under the definition of disorganized

[Jadis tilts their head sharply... Did Viola hear a crack? Viola furrows her brow slightly, but her smile doesn't falter.]

[20:17:16] <[RP] Jadis> Ah.. then perhaps... you would find something.... in the mess

[20:17:37] <[RP] Viola> Yeah....Yeah! I'm super good at finding things

[Jadis' head returns upright as sharply as it tilted]

[20:18:34] <[RP] Jadis> What.... do you do... Miss Viola?

[Viola pauses for a moment too long before responding]

[20:19:09] <[RP] Viola> Uh...oh! I'm the librarian. Or well I'm A librarian

[20:19:33] <[RP] Viola> I have different libraries around the world I travel to, and I keep books there from certain regions

[20:19:51] <[RP] Viola> It helps me keep in touch with the farther flung locals too

[20:19:46] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... no wonder you are so.... ravenous... for information

[20:19:56] <[RP] Viola> Yeah seriously!

[20:20:04] <[RP] Viola> I'm always looking for more stuff

[20:20:30] <[RP] Jadis> Well... you are free... to drop by sometime... and peruse my books

[20:20:38] <[RP] Viola> I would so so absolutely love that

[Viola scratches down something on a piece of paper]

[Jadis glances at the paper but says nothing. The paper is mostly half written notes and questions, the last thing Viola appears to have written is "lead for Asha?"]

[20:22:18] <[RP] Viola> Awesome, awesome, awesome

[20:22:49] <[RP] Viola> Thanks for indulging me, it will absolutely happen again

[20:22:57] <[RP] Jadis> Of course, Miss Viola

[Viola checks her watch.]

[20:23:09] <[RP] Viola> Oh shit! I'm gonna be late for dinner

[20:23:18] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... farewell then

[Viola waves goodbye as she puts her book into a sidebag]

[20:23:33] <[RP] Viola> Bye Jadis, awesome to meet you!!

[20:23:40] <[RP] Jadis> A pleasure to meet you

[Viola runs off further into the wayships. Jadis turns to the others after Viola disappears from sight. Silently observing.....]

[After Ion left Pekoe had gone back to asking Hal and Magnolia questions:]

[20:04:17] <[RP] Pekoe> Are your mama and papa the savanna cows? Netty showed me some of 'em, you've got horns like 'em

[Hal glances away, caught off guard by the little one's question.]

[20:05:02] <[RP] Hal> uhh!

[Magnolia looks to Hal very hurriedly to look for his reaction.]

[20:05:11] <[RP] Hal> y'know? uhh.

[Hal struggles to find the right words.]

[20:05:33] <[RP] Magnolia> They're just like him! Not cows!

[Pekoe cocks his oversized puppy head]

[20:05:55] <[RP] Pekoe> not cow?

[20:06:33] <[RP] Doc> Pekoe, sometimes horns are inherited, and sometimes not.

[20:06:43] <[RP] Pekoe> Like yours?

[20:06:50] <[RP] Doc> Mine are not inherited

[Pekoe nods]

[20:07:26] <[RP] Doc> Does that make sense.

[20:07:27] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc, they have a farm like we do!

[20:07:36] <[RP] Pekoe> And the tiny one likes to cook! Like Netty!

[Hal begins to hang back just slightly, letting conversation unfold without him for a spell.]

[20:07:47] <[RP] Magnolia> >:(

[20:07:53] <[RP] Doc> ... Yes. I heard something about that

[20:08:15] <[RP] Pekoe> OH

[20:08:20] <[RP] Pekoe> Do y'all grow 'em all?

[20:08:28] <[RP] Magnolia> Like, crops?

[20:08:38] <[RP] Pekoe> We grow 'em all 'cept pump'ins and melons

[20:08:49] <[RP] Pekoe> Mhm! Crops!

[20:08:50] <[RP] Magnolia> We grow em all, we've got the space for it

[20:09:06] <[RP] Pekoe> Even pump'ins and melons?

[20:09:21] <[RP] Magnolia> we're a lil low on pumpkins 'n melons, considerin' a recent festival, but yeah.

[20:09:34] <[RP] Pekoe> Wowee

[20:09:40] <[RP] Pekoe> That's so cool!!!

[20:09:51] <[RP] Doc> Do you want pumpkins and melons?

[20:09:57] <[RP] Magnolia> we also raise a bit 'a livestock. They're good eat'n.

[20:10:05] <[RP] Magnolia> uhhh, me?

[20:10:12] <[RP] Magnolia> Or the lil one?

[20:10:13] <[RP] Pekoe> I don' like harvesting them. They're too big

[20:10:29] <[RP] Doc> Him, and very well.

[Pekoe nods]

[20:10:26] <[RP] Magnolia> Hal harvests 'em

[Hal joins the conversation again once mentioned:]

[20:10:36] <[RP] Hal> yessir, i do!

[20:10:59] <[RP] Pekoe> I like the pigs, they're fun eating

[Magnolia nods.]

[20:11:09] <[RP] Magnolia> Pigs're my favourite

[20:11:18] <[RP] Magnolia> both as animals and as eat'n

[20:11:35] <[RP] Pekoe> Do you have cows? We have cows

[20:11:44] <[RP] Magnolia> we've got plen'y of cows

[Pekoe side-eyes Hal about that]

[20:11:58] <[RP] Pekoe> For.. eatin'?

[Hal glances back with an unknowing smile.]

[20:12:25] <[RP] Magnolia> [sigh:] Yes, for eat'n.

[20:12:32] <[RP] Pekoe> Hmm

[20:12:35] <[RP] Doc> Farms can serve many purposes

[20:12:42] <[RP] Magnolia> We also have wolves like you

[20:12:45] <[RP] Magnolia> 'n cats.

[20:12:50] <[RP] Pekoe> :O

[20:13:14] <[RP] Pekoe> My pack lives in my den, 'n we have some other wolves for protecting the aminals

[20:13:36] <[RP] Hal> Wolves make mighty good protectors!

[20:13:36] <[RP] Pekoe> Do your pack live in your den?

[20:13:48] <[RP] Magnolia> aint got a den, got a barn

[20:13:57] <[RP] Magnolia> they sleep there or with me 'n the farmhouse.

[20:14:25] <[RP] Pekoe> Barns're for aminals, yeah?

[20:14:32] <[RP] Pekoe> 'n not people?

[20:14:40] <[RP] Pekoe> But? He's not a cow?

[20:14:41] <[RP] Magnolia> Animals 'n produce 'n hay

[20:14:53] <[RP] Doc> People can live in many different places.

[20:14:54] <[RP] Hal> Who, me?

[20:15:08] <[RP] Magnolia> Hal lives in the barn, still

[20:15:14] <[RP] Hal> Yeah, Imma cow! Differn't sort, though.

[20:15:27] <[RP] Pekoe> That one said you weren't a cow, though!

[20:15:30] <[RP] Magnolia> diff'rent sort.

[20:15:54] <[RP] Hal> Well, uh, I ain't the same kinda cow as the ones ya milk n' eat!

[Pekoe nods]

[20:16:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Like Netty couldn't collar me!

[20:16:31] <[RP] Hal> Yeah, we're all a lil' differn't!

[20:16:36] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[Pekoe nods]

[20:17:01] <[RP] Pekoe> Fun world

[20:17:07] <[RP] Hal> Yup!

[20:17:15] <[RP] Pekoe> Cow 'n Kitty

[20:17:21] <[RP] Pekoe> I'm Pekoe

[20:17:35] <[RP] Hal> [With a welcoming grin:] Nice to meetcha! I'm Hal!

[20:17:38] <[RP] Magnolia> Int'restin' name. Did you pick it?

[20:17:46] <[RP] Pekoe> Nope!

[20:17:56] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc has fun tea names

[20:17:58] <[RP] Magnolia> Me neither. Name's Magnolia.

[20:18:09] <[RP] Magnolia> Doc?

[Pekoe points at Doc]

[20:18:19] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc

[20:18:24] <[RP] Doc> He knocked the canister off the counter. I said the name and he responded to it.

[20:18:24] <[RP] Magnolia> Ah.

[20:18:27] <[RP] Hal> Howdy, Doc!

[20:18:34] <[RP] Doc> Hello.

[Hal extends a hand to shake Doc's, country style.]

[Doc does shake his hand, staring at him.]

[Hal gives a firm handshake, and a grin, before stepping back.]

[20:19:06] <[RP] Pekoe> Hal-olia

[20:19:20] <[RP] Magnolia> Hal-olia?

[Pekoe nods.]

[20:19:29] <[RP] Pekoe> Halolia

[20:19:45] <[RP] Magnolia> Are you just combinin' our names?

[20:19:45] <[RP] Hal> wuzzat mean, lil' bud?

[20:19:49] <[RP] Doc> He likes to combine names.

[20:20:00] <[RP] Pekoe> Noc <3

[20:20:05] <[RP] Magnolia> Kids're strange. Makes sense.

[20:20:10] <[RP] Hal> heheh, you're a silly guy, huh?

[20:20:14] <[RP] Pekoe> Noc 'n Halolia 'n Mapa 'n

[20:20:45] <[RP] Pekoe> Mama says I'm weird

[20:20:48] <[RP] Hal> halolia soun's like some kinda soup!

[20:21:06] <[RP] Doc> Everyone is some variety of weird.

[20:21:13] <[RP] Pekoe> 'n Doc says that when I tell him

[20:21:23] <[RP] Doc> Because it is correct

[20:21:31] <[RP] Pekoe> He says that a lot, too

[20:21:45] <[RP] Hal> Well y'ain't wrong!

[20:21:52] <[RP] Magnolia> I see kids sometimes at the inn. They're all weird 'n their own ways, like you

[20:22:07] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[Hal tilts his head towards Magnolia:]

[20:22:13] <[RP] Hal> we're weird too, you n' me!

[20:22:26] <[RP] Magnolia> I guess so

[20:22:16] <[RP] Doc> I am seldom wrong

[20:22:24] <[RP] Pekoe> All the other pups growed up an' left the pack

[20:22:36] <[RP] Hal> Yea?

[20:22:40] <[RP] Magnolia> Do ya grow like a wolf or like a person?

[20:23:24] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc says person, 'cause I'm still a pup 'n everyone else growed

[20:23:36] <[RP] Doc> Yes, and you walk on two legs.

[20:23:41] <[RP] Doc> And talk.

[20:23:41] <[RP] Hal> musta gotten mighty lonely, huh?

[20:23:51] <[RP] Pekoe> Mama talks, you just don't listen

[20:24:11] <[RP] Doc> Perhaps she just does not talk to me.

[20:24:27] <[RP] Pekoe> She calls you mean things

[Doc nodded, sighing.]

[20:22:42] <[RP] Doc> Pekoe, would you like to visit their inn at some later time?

[20:23:24] <[RP] Magnolia> Inn's always open for guests.

[20:23:37] <[RP] Magnolia> Speakin' of... we should get back'ta the farm, shouldn't we?

[20:23:51] <[RP] Hal> !

[20:24:08] <[RP] Hal> yeah, guess we oughtta

[20:24:18] <[RP] Magnolia> Well... our farm is, uh,

[20:24:34] <[RP] Magnolia> East and a lil south 'o here

[20:24:49] <[RP] Pekoe> Wha's it called?

[Doc pulls out a small map and pen]

[20:24:51] <[RP] Doc> I'll mark it.

[20:24:52] <[RP] Pekoe> Your farm?

[20:24:55] <[RP] Magnolia> Kindlewheat

[20:25:00] <[RP] Pekoe> Like fire?

[Magnolia stiffens very suddenly.]

[20:25:13] <[RP] Magnolia> I guess.

[Hal steps back a bit more.]

[20:25:35] <[RP] Hal> Y'know, I think, uh.

[Pekoe nods, oblivious to the sudden tenseness he’s caused]

[20:25:38] <[RP] Pekoe> Our farm doesn't have a name I think

[Doc’s takes notice of their reactions, staring intensely.]

[20:25:50] <[RP] Magnolia> We should be goin', it's plen'y late

[20:26:05] <[RP] Magnolia> I've got dinner to cook 'n animals to tend

[20:26:23] <[RP] Magnolia> You two have a save ride home, however ya got here

[20:26:34] <[RP] Hal> yup! yup.

[20:26:36] <[RP] Pekoe> I flew in! Like Netty does!

[20:26:47] <[RP] Magnolia> Right.

[Hal offers one last, albeit forced, smile to Pekoe]

[20:27:18] <[RP] Hal> You keep eatin' good, y'hear?

[20:27:22] <[RP] Pekoe> Yessir!

[20:27:26] <[RP] Hal> heheheh

[20:27:26] <[RP] Magnolia> G'bye, y'all

[Magnolia and Hal begin heading for a nearby nether portal]

[Pekoe smiles bigly and waves at the other two, then zeroes in on Doc]

[Doc waved goodbye as well]

[20:27:37] <[RP] Pekoe> Doc would you harvest pump'ns for me

[20:28:02] <[RP] Doc> Yes, I will get some melons and pumpkins growing. I need some anyway for potions.

[20:28:08] <[RP] Pekoe> :D

[Pekoe begins trying to move through the spawn, tugging on Doc’s hand.]

[20:28:57] <[RP] Doc> Hold on a moment, I need to speak to the witch

[They both turn and look at Jadis, who had been inspecting the things given to them by Ion, but looks up at the mention of its name.]

[20:29:39] <[RP] Jadis> You wish... to speak?

[20:29:56] <[RP] Doc> That's correct..

[Pekoe nods and runs away to stare at fish in the water]

[20:30:28] <[RP] Jadis> Then... my time is yours... good doctor

[20:31:06] <[RP] Doc> There is a soul in you, yes?

[20:31:23] <[RP] Jadis> Yes, I believe...

[20:31:56] <[RP] Doc> I can see it, your soul, I mean.

[20:32:03] <[RP] Jadis> Ah....

[20:32:12] <[RP] Jadis> How... reassuring

[20:32:24] <[RP] Doc> I have never been accused of being such.

[20:32:33] <[RP] Jadis> My... apologies

[20:32:48] <[RP] Doc> Not to worry. Have you ever seen your own soul?

[20:33:02] <[RP] Jadis> I have not

[20:33:12] <[RP] Doc> [In a slightly manic tone:] WOuld you like to?

[Jadis tilts their head, and steeples their fingers.]

[20:34:38] <[RP] Jadis> What does it... entail

[20:35:36] <[RP] Doc> We have several options. I can create a sculpture, or a gemstone.

[20:35:55] <[RP] Jadis> I will... simply be seeing it?

[20:36:15] <[RP] Doc> Yes. If you cannot see souls normally, I will not attempt to shift this.

[20:36:35] <[RP] Jadis> I cannot... see yours

[20:36:47] <[RP] Doc> That is not a good benchmark. Mine is not in my body.

[20:37:03] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... how... interesting

[20:37:36] <[RP] Doc> I keep it elsewhere.

[20:37:50] <[RP] Jadis> I have... no preference... to how I see my soul

[20:38:39] <[RP] Doc> Very well. I will construct a replica

[20:39:18] <[RP] Jadis> Such an… intriguing proposition.... for someone you just met

[20:39:43] <[RP] Doc> I have removed souls in people I have known for briefer. I enjoy the poppy in your hat.

[20:39:52] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... my thanks

[20:40:14] <[RP] Doc> They grow often on battlefields and corpses.

[20:40:19] <[RP] Jadis> Yes they do

[20:40:40] <[RP] Jadis> Quite.... a lovely flower

[20:41:00] <[RP] Doc> Have you ever seen a battlefield filled with poppies? After the battle?

[20:41:12] <[RP] Jadis> Not that I... recall

[20:41:39] <[RP] Doc> I suppose it would be difficult for others to see. Especially now.

[20:42:20] <[RP] Jadis> I'm not sure that I am unfamiliar... with battles

[20:42:43] <[RP] Doc> That is fortunate for you.

[20:43:08] <[RP] Doc> Your pupils are very small.

[20:43:35] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... Are they?

[20:44:03] <[RP] Doc> Yes. They are. How familiar are you with battles, would you say?

[20:44:23] <[RP] Jadis> I do not know

[20:44:38] <[RP] Jadis> I know... very little.. about myself

[20:45:02] <[RP] Doc> How unfortunate. Perhaps I could assist with this issue.

[20:45:12] <[RP] Jadis> Ah...?

[20:46:05] <[RP] Doc> Is that where your interest in souls lies? Trying to reconnect your past?

[20:46:27] <[RP] Jadis> Yes.... in a way

[20:48:06] <[RP] Doc> Well, if you like my help, it is available.

[20:48:19] <[RP] Doc> if not, it does not change the availability of my assistance.

[20:48:26] <[RP] Jadis> A kind offer

[20:48:40] <[RP] Jadis> I will... take you up on it... someday

[20:49:03] <[RP] Doc> Yes, I presume you want to do some research on your own to begin with

[20:49:46] <[RP] Jadis> I appreciate... the consideration

[20:50:22] <[RP] Doc> I am here to do research on the souls of these worlds, it would be irresponsible to not offer my assistance.

[20:51:04] <[RP] Jadis> I would offer... my services... to you as well then

[20:51:21] <[RP] Jadis> if you are ever in need of.... assistance

[20:51:20] <[RP] Doc> And what are the services you provide?

[Doc raises an eyebrow.]

[20:52:00] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... things related to ghosts... or some spirits... divining....

[20:53:06] <[RP] Jadis> Magicks along those lines

[20:53:09] <[RP] Doc> Oh. I do not assume I will need assistance with such things. I am generally capable of handling such things on my own.

[20:53:44] <[RP] Jadis> Ah... forgive my... presumption... in offering.... help

[20:54:36] <[RP] Doc> It has been a necessity for me to learn due to my... unique circumstances

[Jadis nods in acknowledgement]

[20:56:38] <[RP] Doc> Do you know your age?

[20:56:45] <[RP] Jadis> I do not

[20:58:18] <[RP] Doc> Does this world have any historical records?

[20:58:50] <[RP] Jadis> I suppose.... if there was... Miss Viola would know

[20:59:11] <[RP] Doc> Mnm. That may be a good place to start.

[20:59:26] <[RP] Doc> I will speak to her

[21:02:04] <[RP] Jadis> Do you have... any other questions for me... Doctor Krayn

[21:02:41] <[RP] Doc> Not at the current moment. I will contact you if that changes

[21:03:13] <[RP] Jadis> Of course.... It was... good to meet you

[21:03:20] <[RP] Doc> Likewise

[Doc looks around to depart but doesn't see Pekoe through the bustle of spawn.]

[21:04:37] <[RP] Doc> Hm. I will need to find Pekoe before I depart

[21:05:01] <[RP] Jadis> I believe the young Master... went to the water

[21:05:09] <[RP] Doc> Why do you call him that?

[21:05:33] <[RP] Jadis> It is... only proper... to be... polite

[21:06:13] <[RP] Doc> It is not a phrase I hear often

[Doc looks in the direction Jadis indicated and sees Pekoe watching the water]

[21:06:34] <[RP] Doc> Ah, there he is. Have a safe trip home. Jadis.

[21:06:42] <[RP] Jadis> Too you.. as well

[Jadis fiddles with the warp stone from Ion, suddenly disappearing in a puff of purple particles.]

[Doc approaches Pekoe]

[21:07:21] <[RP] Doc> Have you caught anything

[21:07:26] <[RP] Pekoe> I saw a fish eat a fish

[21:07:34] <[RP] Doc> Did you enjoy that?

[21:07:41] <[RP] Pekoe> Ye

[21:07:54] <[RP] Doc> Would you like a fish?

[21:08:04] <[RP] Pekoe> Yeah!

[Doc grabs a knife from his bag before jumping into the ocean. He brings back a dead clownfish for Pekoe.]

The Wild

  In worlds where the Wild One takes up the domain of the Wild, it is generally worshipped by homesteaders, caretakers of nature, and explorers. It favors those that respect the lands they travel through, even being noted to have lead injured people to healing herbs and lost people back to civilization. 

  Prayers to the Wild One include flourishing of local flora and fauna, for means of harvest, beauty, or simple ecosystem health. Regardless of prayer or sacrifice, the Wild One leaves wide swaths teeming with wildlife, unbalanced ecosystems suddenly balanced, once-barren landscapes growing even the most sensitive plants. 

  Those who abuse the land and its life are more likely to be killed by wolves when the Wild One is present, be it the Wild One itself or its pack.

The Untamed

  In worlds where the Wild One takes up the domain of the Untamed, it is prayed to by caretakers of nature and explorers, and specifically feared/loathed by farmers and land developers. Similar to its nature when in care of the Wild, it is seen to lead the lost back to civilization, but most often it is seen to 'ruin' cultivated lands, be they farmland, lawns, or some other manicured land. Spaces deforested to become pasture sprout full-grown trees and understory, crops fail and native plants grow in their place, predators and prey alike return to lands that had been cleared of them. The Untamed Wild One takes the efforts of players to use the land, and revokes them as it wanders through. 

  The Wolf is most likely to take up this mantle in heavily inhabited worlds, ones whose Gods have abandoned the domains of Untamed or Wild altogether. Its presence is easily noted as reports of farm failure spread, including reports of livestock slaughter and oft-permanent sport-hunter deaths. 

  Some believe that enough cruelty towards the land summons the Wild One, but results of testing this are almost always inconclusive because followers of it flock to the worlds as soon as word gets out. These followers act in its stead, some taking care to replant and care for the tarnished land, and others hunting the causes, killing them or otherwise 'bringing them to justice'. For this reason, this author heavily suggests that such tests not be partaken in or even proposed.

Family/Parenthood

  Worlds in which the Protector takes up the domain of Family, usually taking it from a resident God, the only indicator is a large decrease in familial and marital abuse, as perpetrators both known and yet unknown go missing, and incidents of death due to childbirth and child death drop drastically. Tamed dogs in these worlds often play a part in the protection of the family, leading the abusers out and away from their families, protecting children from preventable injury, and leading help to children in need. 

  In these worlds, those with families and those who have lost family members alike pray to the Protector, to defend their own and to keep others from experiencing the loss they have. Offerings are left on stoops or on the edges of wilderness as wolves are seen in the area. Those hoping to become parents or lovers may pray to the Protector, although it is unknown if it takes up any part of the domains of Love or Fertility.

The Hunt

  The Hunting Hound or Sneak, as it is known when it takes up domain of the Hunt, takes up more than just the act of hunting. It is the God of both hunter and hunted, aiding those fleeing harm and helping those who hunt for sustenance. It does not aid all who hunt, for example, those who hunt for sport and those who do not respect their prey do not see boon from the Hound. It respects the reason for hunting, and it respects the prey that is hunted. Those fleeing consequences for the harm they have caused do not see boon from the Sneak, same with those who cause undue harm in their efforts to escape. 

  It has been known for packs of wolves to distract hunting dogs from fox hunts, to nip at the heels of horses and mules whose riders leave behind the fruits of their hunts. It has also been noted for wolves to chase those running from consequence into the nets of their pursuers. 

  Alongside those acts of consequence, it is also noted that wolves in these lands may aid in hunts, herding prey towards waiting hunters, protecting them from aggressive mobs, and even, in rare cases, nursing those who succumb to the elements to health enough to return home. 

  The Hound is worshipped by hunter and escapee alike, with hunters leaving offerings of part of their catch and the hunted making small piles of what foods they can afford to give up. 

Travel/Wanderers

  The Wandering Wolf, or Wanderer, is oft worshipped regardless of its presence the world. Those who travel for any reason may pray to it, although those who travel to find new land to abuse only pray to it when uneducated on it or when the Wanderer is known to not be present. Signs along trails may feature paws, or a wolf's head, or some other motif of the Wolf to denote its being protected and maintained. Those who wander without direction pray to the Wanderer in hope for an end-game, protection, luck in finding supplies, and any sort of aid in their travels. Many who regularly travel between worlds carry some sign of the Wolf on their bags, making it easy to find companionship with fellow travelers. 

  Despite 'living' this domain the most of all its mantles, it is unknown if the Wanderer ever has only been in possession of this domain. Often, it has been paired with others, such as Family or the Wild. 

Temples and Offerings

  Temples to the Wolf in the worlds it visits are temporary, open-concept, and not often visited. It is rare for the Wolf to visit them, although it is known to visit more shrine-like temples to take food offerings. Due to its nature, offerings are often made by larger groups, to minimize the loss of food and animal life. Worlds where many families make bigger offerings to the Wolf often experience upset, thought to be because of the Wolf's distaste for the waste. 

  The Wolf is not known to visit temples or shrines when players are present, and may even attack or flee the world suddenly if cornered. Approaching it is inadvisable.

Worshippers/Cultists

  Wilders are those who follow the Wild One, worshipping it regardless of presence in the domain of the Untamed. They wear wolf insignia, often wolf masks when their worship breaks laws. Players from any walk of life may join this sect, although they are not well-described due to their secretive nature. Wilders have also been known to enforce the efforts of the Wolf as the Protector, attacking those who harm their own family and aiding those in need. 

  Trekkers are those who follow the Wanderer, working to make travel safer without harming the environment about the trails they blaze. Rocks carved with the head or paw of a wolf, cairns topped with bones or shed antlers, and general symbols of the wolf painted on trees and stone walls are all trail markers made by Trekkers. It is common for travelers to follow these markers without worshipping the Wanderer due to its prevalence in highly-travelled areas, even maintaining and spreading the concept without knowledge of its origin. Trekkers are generally hunters, traders, or frontiersmen, many of whom have never even been in the same world as the Wanderer. 

  Pack-members are those who wander between worlds, carrying the symbol of the Wanderer and communing when they can.  Wander-packs can be found in many worlds, especially Core, with inns and taverns designated as Dens to host these followers of the Wanderer. These places often also serve as libraries, tales written down by travelers or those who have heard their tales.