darkSpyro

Ilasi graciously accepted the weapon from Maverick. She had little experience with such weapons, but a simple swing of the sword should be all she needed to cut off a tongue... right? Was she strong enough to do that?
"Thank you, Maverick," she said. "Well, I'm ready when you are. I wonder what kind of people we will meet..."

As Maverick finished accommodating the stuff from the hyperspace bag and also do a brief inventory, he realized he almost forgot to say something important.
"Oh, by the way Ilasi, I... I hope you don't mind, but I invited Angorita to help me with the sales... that is of course, if I can convince el capitán to let her leave the ship. She.. well, she may not have the best image, but she does have a way with words, so she could be a big help with the sales." Maverick said with some skepticism, knowing how strained Ilasi and Angora's relationship is. While he hoped that was a thing of the past, Maverick remembered how the troll was imprisoned on the brig when he was kidnapped, and if she was only recently released, then that would mean she and Ilasi didn't have much time to bond while he was missing.

Angora finished her meal, almost chocking once due to how fast she was eating. She felt bad for not attempting to enjoy the food Maverick so thoroughly and carefully prepared, but she didn't want to keep the orb man waiting. Feeling ready, she left the cabin, heading to the main deck... when she decided to do something else first. She changed her course... and headed to Veris' enclosure. She opened it without any doubts, and without even waiting for how the wyvern would respond to her presence, she hugged his wing.
"Well big guy. I'm off. I have to talk to your master first, but I may leave soon. Just wanted to say, thank you for everything..." Angora said with a single tear, really loving this wyvern. He was such a great form of consolation in both past and present that she wanted to show her gratitude, but she also wanted to say goodbye in case she never sees him again. There was a chance for the stranger to demand she stays on the island for a while, but there was also the possibility of Sere dumping her there, or in worse case scenario, be killed by the iguana beasts or some other wildlife, but nevertheless, she tried to maintain a positive attitude. It pained her to think she could never have a proper conversation with Veris like she intended, but she didn't know if Latnok would let Raclaw do her the favor, not to mention she didn't want to keep the stranger and Maverick waiting. Perhaps it was a silly thing to say goodbye at this point in time, but Angora was feeling so emotional she believed she had to do this display to avoid any future guilt.

Quote: A Guy

"So... Raclaw," Latnok asked. "I know you were a little disappointed, but the search has just started. There's still a lot to look for. I get this strange feeling, though... I've been asking myself what I really want. And I was thinking maybe, somehow, I'd find it here. I don't know how I got that idea, but it's a strong hunch. So I have that to consider as well." There was also the matter of the many creatures on the island - considering Sere had a device to "study" them, perhaps he would take a few samples.

"What you really want...?," Raclaw thought outloud. He had now seen that question repeated multiple times within the beloved Guardian's head and the fact that it only came after Latnok's experience didn't cause him to worry any less. It was the same experience that brought them apart, only to then bring them closer than ever before. With the collar claim and everything they had been though-- he knew or least highly suspected that Latnok would never leave him. No, they would deal with whatever troubled Latnok *together.* But still, the question only continued to linger despite all of that and it only seemed to grow as they got closer to Falcon's Beak.

"Perhaps it may be possible that we'll all find whatever we're looking for here, even if we don't quite know what that something is. I went out in search of my parents and while I may still yet find them-- I found you and I found Chester.," Raclaw then began to say briefly looking down at the little dog with a smile. "I had never expected to grow to like you as much as I had, to bond with you, and to grow with you. It was an unexpected development and yet... it was a welcome one. And perhaps whatever this new development may be for you may present itself as the same. And whatever we find here, we'll tackle it together.," the Fur Dragon then said leaning into the bonded Guardian. A dragon's loyalty, once earned, was a force to be reckoned with. And he had faith that both he and Latnok would get through whatever trials faced them together.

Veris tilted his head, giving Angora a confused look. He gave a few growls and hisses - If Raclaw were present, he would be able to translate it as "'Thank you for everything?' Are you not coming back?" Angora's tone and mood did not give Veris a good impression, causing him to visibly worry.

"Angora? Well... I'm sure we can manage..." she said uncertainly. Though she no longer disliked Angora, she had little confidence in the troll's ability to be polite and sociable with others. How could Angora manage that when she was so quick to blow up on Ilasi, who was risking herself to give Angora food in prison? She wasn't going to try to stop the troll from coming along, however.

Leoquin, meanwhile, wasn't quite interested in hanging about the town just yet - he wanted to check out some of the water wildlife first. Specifically, he would be looking for anything big and worth hunting. Shark hunting was always thrilling and kept him in good shape - would the creatures here be a different sort of challenge? He couldn't be too risky, however - he still had things to do here.

Maverick could sense Ilasi's discomfort, which made him conclude Ilasi still didn't like the troll that much yet. How he wished they could get along.
"Well, Angorita has improved a lot ever since I met her. You should've seen the rude mess she was that first time. Heh, but we helped each other through a lot." Maverick commented casually, still wanting to motivate Ilasi to give Angora a chance, but above all, have patience.

He looked at the stairs, wondering if Angora was enjoying her meal, when he remembered another thing.
"Oh, oh, sorry it took a while. I made you something. I was surprised with what happened here earlier and kinda forgot about it." Maverick apologized, heading to the barrels and picking Ilasi's platter, willing to warm it up if it became too cold. They would probably walk for a while, so a good meal was necessary.

Quote: A Guy

Veris tilted his head, giving Angora a confused look. He gave a few growls and hisses - If Raclaw were present, he would be able to translate it as "'Thank you for everything?' Are you not coming back?" Angora's tone and mood did not give Veris a good impression, causing him to visibly worry.

Angora stopped the hug, getting ready to leave. She was even considering on saying goodbye to Dahlia, whom she didn't like that much yet.
"I hope I'm just being silly, but, well you know..." she commented, improving her mood slightly for Veris' sake. She heard the wyvern's hiss and growls, and while she recognized that as his attempts to communicate, she still couldn't understand the words. She did however, answered him as if she had understood, though she wished she could've known the words. She had some powerful magic herself, but it definetly didn't extended to animal communication. She wondered though if she could accomplish such a feat someday.

"Sorry I couldn't bring you food right now. I'm in a little hurry. Perhaps some other day. I can even bring you a toy, or maybe even make you one." she added, giving a genuine smile as she got ready to leave the enclosure.

Veris gave Angora a toothy grin in the wyvern equivalent of a smile. Perhaps Angora was just stressed. He wondered how she felt about the flight she had with him - or if there would ever be more. Those were matters for another day - for now, he waited patiently for his next meal.

Ilasi took the food without any complaints. "You're thoughtful as always, Maverick. Thank you," she said. She immediately sat down and began to eat as quickly as she could, not wanting to delay the journey. Then she wondered... would they encounter whatever brought Maverick here? Was it peaceful - some sort of rescuer? Or was it hostile, like those creatures who took him away? Best not to worry about it too much...

"Easy there Ilasi. Don't want you to choke. Just eat peacefully. There's no need to hurry." Maverick cautioned her, not wanting her to feel rushed. As she ate, Maverick looked around to see if Sere was nearby. He couldn't find him the first time, but he hoped that he would appear around the deck to ask permission for Angora to come to the island. He would do the same for Shade, but he was going to be much harder, so he wasn't even going to try.

Quote: A Guy

Veris gave Angora a toothy grin in the wyvern equivalent of a smile. Perhaps Angora was just stressed. He wondered how she felt about the flight she had with him - or if there would ever be more. Those were matters for another day - for now, he waited patiently for his next meal.

Veris' smile was quite scary, to the point that if Angora didn't know him, she would've believed he was threatening her. She blew a small kiss, carefully closing his enclosure once she was out. And now, it was time to leave. She was still skeptical about visiting Dahlia, and knowing Maverick, plus after the scary experience she faced on the last island, she knew he wasn't going to risk bringing the jumpy buffalo to this journey. Once in Dahlia's enclosure, Angora meant to say goodbye, even if it was brief, but once she opened the enclosure, she could see the horned animal, very asleep. The poor thing probably didn't sleep well these last days thinking she lost Maverick, but now that he was safe, she could finally sleep more peacefully.

Angora left the enclosure, not wanting to wake the poor creature. She wanted to say goodbye to her brig buddies, but she just visited them earlier, and she didn't want to cause them more worries after that terrible experience they had with the storm, but if this was really goodbye, she wanted to leave them with that last memory. As she headed to the main deck, she hoped she could encounter Raclaw along the way. If there was still time, she still wished to have that proper conversation with Veris.

As Angora said her goodbyes and walked on deck-- the fur dragon wouldn't be hard to spot relaxing next to Latnok and the smaller Chester.

As if on cue, Angora saw Raclaw as soon as she returned to the main deck, predictably with Latnok and Chester. She would've preferred if he had been alone, but she knew that would be asking too much. Really wanting to have that conversation with Veris, she approached the fur dragon. Maverick was with Ilasi, and she was having her meal, so she would have some time for this little goal. As she got closer, her nervousness was obvious.
"Raclaw? I... if I may... I was wondering if we... if you... can do me the little favor... of... talking to Veris?" she asked very meekly, even her ears trembling. She did lose her fear of Latnok at some point, but after their last conversation, Angora was really wary of him. This was a man who didn't even care whether she lived or die despite everything they've been through together, so she didn't like being near his presence. She was almost expecting him to interrupt the conversation, or even forbid Raclaw from doing her that favor.

Maverick spotted Angora from the distance, talking to Raclaw. He knew there was no hurry to leave. He still had to talk to Sere, or maybe Angora could do it herself, with Sere or though Latnok.

Raclaw looked up as Angora approached--noticing her meek tone and nervousness. 'No doubt the presence of Latnok.,' Raclaw thought slightly disappointed that the two still couldn't make up their differences and not entirely knowing about what had occured in the brig. Raclaw returned Angora's approach with with a somewhat meek smile before briefly glancing at Latnok and answering. The beloved Guardian didn't seem to be rejecting the troll's presence at least. "You wish to talk to Veris. I.. I would be glad to help.," Raclaw said with a slight nod somewhat disappointed in that Angora had only talked to him because she needed his abilities. "Latnok-- I'll be back soon.," the fur dragon then said looking again at Latnok and prepared to let Angora lead him to Veris. Chester briefly looked up, but laid back down upon a slight head gesture on Raclaw's part. Raclaw didn't want to leave Latnok completely alone before he left.

Latnok made no effort to stop Raclaw, though he doubted that Angora would ever have anything to do with him that wasn't self-serving. Raclaw was his own dragon, though, and was free to make his own decisions. "You have fun, then," he said.

Sere would not be on the deck, but would br in his cabin - updating his notes with the information on the map and what he had been told, and drafting up a plan of action for the next few days.

Ilasi did as Maverick suggested, slowing down to enjoy the food. It really was so much better ehen she could just appreciate Maverick's cooking and savor the taste. Still, she was very excited about what they could possibly find on the island, and the kind of people they would meet.

Maverick wanted to find Sere, but didn't want to leave Ilasi. He would wait for the captain to appear sound the deck, though if he didn't, he trusted he would be in his office by the time he looks for him.

At the infirmary, the sailor who had been eaten was attending himself. Ilasi had been overworked enough as it was, and he didn't want to disturb the pretty mermaid. As he attended himself, he could see he wasn't hurt in any way. Drooled and with a bruised ego for sure, but he was fine nonetheless.

Quote: A Guy

Latnok made no effort to stop Raclaw, though he doubted that Angora would ever have anything to do with him that wasn't self-serving. Raclaw was his own dragon, though, and was free to make his own decisions. "You have fun, then," he said.

Angora was relieved with Latnok's approval, though she could see his disappointment. While she knew Raclaw was still a free dragon, she couldn't help but to think the young Guardian still had some hold on the fur dragon. Latnok's disappointment was predictable, but she could see Raclaw seemed that way too.
"You... you don't have to do it if you don't want to." Angora said to Raclaw, feeling like she had offended him somehow. When will it be the day where she could say something without offending anybody? While she still wanted to talk to Veris, she wasn't going to make Raclaw do her the favor if he didn't want to.

"No no.. it's not that. I'll be glad to help you to talk to Veris. It's been awhile since I've visited him anyway.," Raclaw quickly said offering a gentle genuine smile. He realized that Angora could've picked up on a bit of disappointment that wasn't directed entirely towards her. He had hoped that Angora and Latnok could one day be able to be near each other just to be each other. Or rather that he, Angora, and Latnok could all be near each other without an excuse to be required on someone's part. He offered a nod to Latnok and Chester before walking off with Angora.

The little dog would stay behind to keep Latnok company-- following Raclaw's non-verbal instructions and having found a comfortable position anyway. The little Beagle liked both Raclaw and Latnok and had placed himself in a position that could accept petting from both beloved companions. The little guy had quite the comfortable life now-- new friends, a new collar of his choosing, and new places to see and explore. He could even talk to his new friends directly and without requiring anyone to interpret canine gestures/sounds. Or rather they could understand canine sounds now, which was a rarity.

As the two left, Latnok sat down, petting Chester just like he always did. "Wonder what Veris will have to say about everything," he said. "Angora has fed him before, so he can't take too badly to her. Well, while we're waiting, anything you might be interested in doing around here, Chester?"

Veris waited in his enclosure patiently. He was starting to get hungry; perhaps dinner would be coming soon? He was somewhat restless on account of not having gotten his typical morning flight for so many days in a row. Even after the storm, it seemed that his human was too occupied in many other matters. He wondered how Sere was doing, and hoped his human was still alright.

Angora walked with Raclaw, ignoring the pool of drool from where the sailor was regurgitated. She wondered where he was, but that wasn't important right now. In part, she believed she was doing Raclaw a favor too, letting him get a rest from his controlling friend. Like Raclaw, she had faith in a better relationship with Latnok, but the young Guardian seemed to be still against it, not taking any pity in her predicament and even wishing her dead... or at least not caring if she did. Chances were slipping again, but Angora didn't care anymore. She was disappointed that Latnok's relationship with the fluffy dragon didn't soften his heart after all as she once hoped.

Once arriving to Veris' enclosure, she decided to cease this rain of torturous thoughts in order to appear before Veris without any negative expression on her face.
"Hey big guy. Sorry to have worried you earlier, but I didn't want that last conversation to be the last. Look who I brought." Angora commented with a small smile as she opened the enclosure bigger so that Raclaw could be visible. Finally she could do what she wanted to do for a while. She realized she didn't bring any snacks to Veris, but he would have to settle for just the company.

As Angora opened the enclosure door to reveal his presence-- Raclaw immediately set-up a temporary connection between Veris, himself, and Angora. This connection, as it had done once before, would allow for Angora to understand Veris just as he could for as long as he maintained it. It was much simpler than having to indirectly translate via a 'middleman' and he didn't mind expending the energy for both Veris and Angora's sake. "Hey there.," he said to Veris with a gentle smile. Although he didn't visit as much he probably should've, he considered the wyvern to be a friend and the closest thing to another dragon in the Guardian base. They even shared a mental connection and the wyverns thoughts of 'FOOD!!!' sometimes even made it to him from afar.

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As the two left, Latnok sat down, petting Chester just like he always did. "Wonder what Veris will have to say about everything," he said. "Angora has fed him before, so he can't take too badly to her. Well, while we're waiting, anything you might be interested in doing around here, Chester?"

Chester happily accepted the petting as always-- petting being most dogs' favorite thing in the world. That was a sentiment that both he and Raclaw could agree with, as funny as it sounded. "Hmm.. Well-- I've always been curious about the beach. And after seeing Raclaw swim... I'm half curious as to what he sees in the water. From being afraid of it to purposely swimming in it.," Chester then said looking up at Latnok. The little guy found it curious how Raclaw was so quickly able to get past his fear of water and figured that he might as well try it himself if they were going to spend so much time surrounded by it anyway. He would of course understand if Latnok wasn't willing to potentially risk his life on the island again.

Veris wasn't quite surprised to see Angora back so soon, though he wasn't completely expecting it - it seemed that she was in a down mood more than anything. "Angora! So Raclaw can help you understand me now? Can you finally understand me now? Where is my human? He always seems too busy to stop by these days. How have you been? Do you have any more stories? Why were you so sad? Did Latnok cook any more food? Food will put you in a better mood!" There were many things Veris wanted to ask her at once, if she could finally understand him.

"Well," Latnok began, "I can't say I'm an expert on teaching a dog how to swim. I know how I do it, but... our anatomy isn't quite the same. Besides, I don't know what's around the island - I think we should at least have a merman around for the lesson, like we did with Raclaw. Hmm..." Latnok heard about one of the locals, a hunter - so hunters were evidently here. "Maybe some of the locals use hunting dogs? Perhaps they know how to swim?" Helping Chester swim would make moving around the island much safer for him, especially in the event that they got separated for any reason.

At the infirmary, the sailor was done with his self examination. He didn't have any burns, leading him to believe that he either didn't reach the stomach or the acids were either weak or slow. Devoured by some foreign beast and be spat out alive? Not exactly an experience everyone faces, at at least lives to tell about it. While he was still terrified about what happened, he knew that once he shook off the feeling, the experience would make one terrific story to tell, one that many probably won't believe, but he knew the truth and that was enough.

Quote: A Guy

Veris wasn't quite surprised to see Angora back so soon, though he wasn't completely expecting it - it seemed that she was in a down mood more than anything. "Angora! So Raclaw can help you understand me now? Can you finally understand me now? Where is my human? He always seems too busy to stop by these days. How have you been? Do you have any more stories? Why were you so sad? Did Latnok cook any more food? Food will put you in a better mood!" There were many things Veris wanted to ask her at once, if she could finally understand him.

Angora flinched with so much talking, even starting to wonder if this was such a good idea.
"Hold it hold hold it! Yes Veris, I can understand you. Just calm down. A little step at a time, alright?" Angora urged, Veris almost looking like somebody else. He really looked eager at the prospect of somebody understanding him.

"Listen, sorry I left so rashly before. I didn't mean to upset you. I just have so much on my head lately. Sere... the captain has been quite busy lately, but I'll try to keep you more company than before." Angora said, though not making any promises. She knew Veris must've been wondering why she didn't visited him in such a long while, but if she told him she was in the brig, he would question why, and she wasn't in the mood to revive that experience. It would simply get her all emotional again, not to mention it was also the time when Latnok made that horrendous comment.

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"Well," Latnok began, "I can't say I'm an expert on teaching a dog how to swim. I know how I do it, but... our anatomy isn't quite the same. Besides, I don't know what's around the island - I think we should at least have a merman around for the lesson, like we did with Raclaw. Hmm..." Latnok heard about one of the locals, a hunter - so hunters were evidently here. "Maybe some of the locals use hunting dogs? Perhaps they know how to swim?" Helping Chester swim would make moving around the island much safer for him, especially in the event that they got separated for any reason.

Chester recalled seeing Raclaw swim for the first time, remembering how Raclaw had done it in part because of him. He had been forced to take a bath and Raclaw had rewarded his efforts in part by purposely jumping into the than very uninviting water. It has also been the only way for Raclaw himself to take a bath due to lack of proper facilities for dragon bathing aboard the Enduring Legacy. "Hmm... could we ask?," Chester simply said looking up at Latnok. Part of Chester couldn't believe that was actually *asking* to learn how to swim, but another part of him was still somewhat curious especially after seeing his beloved Raclaw do the same. And if all three of them knew how to swim, than they could go to even more places together.

Veris' thoughts quickly rushed through both Raclaw and Angora's heads-- the wyvern clearly very excited to talk to someone.

Veris did as he was told, slowing down as he laid on the ground. "Okay. Thank you! How are things out there? I haven't gotten to see anything yet. Did you get to eat anything new and delicious? Can we hunt here? Are there people here? Do they like dragons? Or are they 'bad'? Like the last human Latnok gave me?" Despite his best efforts, Veris still found it somewhat difficult to slow down with so much to ask at once - somewhat like Dahlia, except with the ability to finish his thoughts before moving on to the next one.

"Well, I'm sure we could ask Leoquin or Ilasi, when they're less busy," Latnok said. "I think Leoquin went off hunting or something like that - a bit reckless if you ask me, though I would probably do something similar. And Ilasi... well, she's probably tied to Maverick right now. So Leoquin would likely be our best bet. If you're referring to the islanders, I'm sure that they'll be willing to work with us." The islanders seemed very pleasant so far, despite their somewhat intimidating appearance.

As Ilasi continued eating her meal peacefully, Maverick got to think about a lot of things. Many things went through his mind, but one in particular was about Ilasi's parents, and what they expected from him. He waited for the mermaid to be almost done with the food before speaking.
"Ilasi? Is there's... something in particular you want to do in life? I mean, the ship's work doesn't have to be forever. I spent a lifetime at sea and I really started to miss land. I want to know what you would rather do. Your parents think I'm this rich, successful businessman, but that's so far from the truth. I took the traveling merchant life more to explore the world rather than make money. I still make good money, but it's mostly about the exploration. But as you can see, I've faced many life trials, as well as my friends. I want to spend my life with you... but... I also want to help others." Maverick commented sincerely, thinking very hard about the future. He and Ilasi have had their fair share of strains in their relationship already, but now that they took it to the next step, he wanted everything to work out somehow.

Quote: A Guy

Veris did as he was told, slowing down as he laid on the ground. "Okay. Thank you! How are things out there? I haven't gotten to see anything yet. Did you get to eat anything new and delicious? Can we hunt here? Are there people here? Do they like dragons? Or are they 'bad'? Like the last human Latnok gave me?" Despite his best efforts, Veris still found it somewhat difficult to slow down with so much to ask at once - somewhat like Dahlia, except with the ability to finish his thoughts before moving on to the next one.

Angora shook her head at the prospect of Veris still talking about food. He hadn't changed much. At least it wasn't the only thing he talked about.
"Not much new food you can try on a ship. But hey, if you want food, Maverick can..." Angora started to say, when she stopped mid sentence. She had just processed the last thing the wyvern said.
"Wait. Hold it right there. Human? What do you mean the last human he gave you?" she asked, starting to think the worse. Did the Guardians really went that far? Or did Veris meant it another way?

Ilasi gulped down the last of her food before standing up and answering Maverick. "Well... I honestly don't know now," she admitted. "I was hoping to be successful... someone my parents could be proud of. But it seems that no matter what I do, it'll never be enough for them. So now? Well... I don't quite know yet. I don't have any major lofty goal, except to keep moving forward. I try to help people where I can, but it's not always easy. Throughout everything I've done, I've seen many suffering people, many dying or dead people - and I realize that there is only so much I'll ever be able to do. And though I get frustrated every time I fail someone, I... well, I have to accept that there's only so much one person can do. I just wish I could do more, you know? But enough of that. I guess I'll just see where life takes me - where life takes us, rather." This constant sense of disappointment, though noticeable to some, was not something she had gone into detail with before now with Maverick. In a way, it felt relieving to be able to tell someone.

Veris didn't think much of Angora's question, giving the same sort of enthusiastic answer. "Yes, Latnok gave me a human the other day," Veris said. "He was big and fat and juicy, like a prize pig!" As Veris described the human he was given, he licked his maw, recalling just how the human tasted. "I'm usually only given humans who have been bad; for some reason, the others prefer to take the not-bad humans and throw them into a hole they dig in the ground, and it's a bad thing if I try to eat them. It's a waste of good meat; but maybe there is some magic ritual. The humans I work with know a lot about magic. I don't really understand it, but if that helps things out, then sure!"

It didn't take long for Angora to know who Veris was talking about. While the thought did crossed her mind, she never expected the Guardians to go as far as to feed humans to Veris regardless on their behavior. She had to do a brief pause before speaking again.
"Well... whew, that is news to me. I mean, I know you'd eat almost anything, but... well I didn't think humans were on... you know, the menu." Angora expressed, the color of her face changing slightly with the thought. Now she knew the real extent of this wyvern's gluttonyShe wanted to tell Veris she was partially responsible for him to have that human, but if he knew the man was a prisoner, he would most likely ask questions.

Angora decided to shake it off, and was thankful that not all prisoners were thrown to such a fate. The man was at least dead before being thrown to Veris, but it was still a scary thought.
"I, heh, better be on my best behavior in that case." Angora then added, trying to joke about the matter in order to tone down the rather fearful thought.

Quote: A Guy

Ilasi gulped down the last of her food before standing up and answering Maverick. "Well... I honestly don't know now," she admitted. "I was hoping to be successful... someone my parents could be proud of. But it seems that no matter what I do, it'll never be enough for them. So now? Well... I don't quite know yet. I don't have any major lofty goal, except to keep moving forward. I try to help people where I can, but it's not always easy. Throughout everything I've done, I've seen many suffering people, many dying or dead people - and I realize that there is only so much I'll ever be able to do. And though I get frustrated every time I fail someone, I... well, I have to accept that there's only so much one person can do. I just wish I could do more, you know? But enough of that. I guess I'll just see where life takes me - where life takes us, rather." This constant sense of disappointment, though noticeable to some, was not something she had gone into detail with before now with Maverick. In a way, it felt relieving to be able to tell someone.[/b]

Maverick gave her a small kiss on the lips before replying.
"It's not healthy to think such things Ilasi. It's great that you want to help, but you can't carry the whole world on your shoulders. I want to help also, but I can't expect to be successful all the time, even less be disappointed about it. What can you gain from being disappointed? Only stress for yourself, something that can be contagious. If you're going to be contagious, it better be from good things, no? And your parents, they do love you, I can tell, even if they expect too much from you. But no matter what they expect, you should still feel proud of yourself. Nobody can do everything, but if you're a good person and are good at what you do, should anything else matter? You have some beautiful, useful magic. You cure people. You purify water, the most important element of the world. Those things alone are far more accomplishment than many people do in a lifetime. And even if you don't know what to do in life, then just let it run it's course like you said. It's more fun that way anyway." Maverick lectured with sincerety, surprised at himself for coming up with such a complex speech.

Veris drooped a bit hearing Angora speak like that. "I wish I will never need to eat you," he said. "I think my human might not like you very much. Sometimes I think he needs to take time to eat and relax. This happens sometimes. Things are okay for a bit - but then something happens and all of a sudden he... uh... get lost in doing... something. I see other humans relaxing, but never my human - and it makes me sad." Veris' tone was much sadder than before - what he said was likely something that had been wearing on him for a while, for longer than just the current journey.

Ilasi shrinked back and blushed when Maverick kissed her - still not being used to having someone who would want to kiss her. She quickly recovered, however, trying to not make Maverick feel like he was doing something wrong. "Yeah, I guess you have a point. It's just... I've worked so hard to try to be helpful and useful that when I can't be, it's just really frustrating. I always think of how I could've fixed things... even if I don't know if I could've fixed things. But you're right. I just need to keep moving on. WE will keep moving on, and we'll have a good time with it!"

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"Well, I'm sure we could ask Leoquin or Ilasi, when they're less busy," Latnok said. "I think Leoquin went off hunting or something like that - a bit reckless if you ask me, though I would probably do something similar. And Ilasi... well, she's probably tied to Maverick right now. So Leoquin would likely be our best bet. If you're referring to the islanders, I'm sure that they'll be willing to work with us." The islanders seemed very pleasant so far, despite their somewhat intimidating appearance.

"If the islanders have other dogs like me-- they may be our best bet.," Chester said as his eyes lit up. It came to his realisation that it had been some time since he had actually interacted with another dog. Sure-- he had the dog-like Raclaw and had briefly seen dog-like creatures from another world, but the last time he actually interacted with another canine had to be back when had helped free that pack. A small part of him wondered how they were doing and what they had done with their new collar-free life. They had recognized him as a honorary member despite the fact that he was now very much collared and had two loving friends/masters to look after him. He liked his new life and he liked Latnok. What other dog could say that they had the friends he had? And what other dog could say that they had rode a dragon-- and their own fur dragon friend/master at that? He had no complaints.

Raclaw allowed Angora and Veris to talk, not interrupting and merely listening to the ongoing conversation. His ears drooped somewhat at the mention of Veris eating the prisoner and at the mention of Sere's having never taken a break. The Guardians were more or less his family now-- Sere being very much included in that. That was something he would have to try to fix. Somehow..

Maverick put a hand on Ilasi's shoulder, understanding her feelings.
"Well, frustrations are a natural response to unpleasant situations. It can't be helped. You just need them to get out of your system. It's the best thing to do, especially if you have someone willing to help." he commented warmly, more than willing to be that someone.

Quote: A Guy

Veris drooped a bit hearing Angora speak like that. "I wish I will never need to eat you," he said. "I think my human might not like you very much. Sometimes I think he needs to take time to eat and relax. This happens sometimes. Things are okay for a bit - but then something happens and all of a sudden he... uh... get lost in doing... something. I see other humans relaxing, but never my human - and it makes me sad." Veris' tone was much sadder than before - what he said was likely something that had been wearing on him for a while, for longer than just the current journey.

Angora shook her head slowly, looking at Veris funnily.
"Veris, it was a joke." she said with a small laugh, not expecting him to take things so literally. The atmosphere changed when Veris reminenced on his master's lack of happiness.

While Angora despised the idea, she still wanted to try to talk positive about Sere in front of his beloved mount.
"You're right though. Sere needs to learn to relax... and... be a little kinder..." she said rather quietly with those last words, slightly embarrased that even Veris could noticed how obvious his master's dislike for her was.
"Sere will never listen to me. Like you said... well, he doesn't like me... at all. But perhaps Maverick can help him... the way he always helps me. You know, the hairy human? He's amazing! He can even cook some delicious meals, and he doesn't even have magic. Maybe I can convince him to cook something for you." Angora commented, not embarrased to express her fascination for her big hearted friend. Maverick was still nervous around Veris, but if they could have a proper conversation with Raclaw's help, she knew that could change.

"Well, then, I guess it's settled," Latnok said, continuing to absent-mindedly stroke Chester's fur. "Guess we'll just wait for Raclaw to finish up. Hope they don't say anything that hurts our wyvern friend's feelings too bad." Latnok wondered what his life would be like now if he had had a dog before joining the Guardians. Would he have done so, if so much as a dog cared for him?

Veris, unsurprisingly, perked up at the mention of food. He couldn't recall trying Maverick's cooking, but if it was like Latnok's, it was definitely something to look forward to. "Delicious meals? I would like a delicious meal! ...I don't know. The hairy human doesn't like me. He always wants to avoid me. Maybe I did something I wasn't supposed to do?" Veris couldn't quite understand why Maverick was so apprehensive - fear was something he attributed to prey and enemies, but not friends.

Angora shook her head quickly, finding it ridiculous how Maverick could dislike anybody. His father perhaps, and maybe the Guardians at some point, but the occasion was still rare.
"He doesn't dislike you Veris. He's just a little afraid of you. You are quite intimidating in appearance after all. You can rest assure though that he doesn't hate you. Maverick doesn't hate anybody. He's just tends to be nervous is all. With Raclaw's help, you can talk to him too, so he can stop being afraid of you." Angora suggested, looking at Raclaw. She would appreciate if he could do so, but once again, she wasn't going to force him or anything.

"Oh, but just keep a secret that you eat humans, you know, just in case." Angora then suggested, knowing that wouldn't be too well suited with her friend. Still, the thought made her exited. Maverick managed to stop being so wary of Shade. Veris should be easy.

Raclaw gave a nod, indicating that he would be okay with it. "Angora is right-- you've done nothing wrong. And.. and I can help.," he offered with a smile.

Veris gave Angora a confused look. "What if he wants to feed me a human later?" he asked genuinely. He realized that there was probably some reason or another, though, so he put it aside for now. "...Okay. I can do that! And then we can talk, and he can bring me food!" Veris licked his maw as he typically did at the thought of food.

Angora knew now that she would have to try to keep her promise. Veris already has the illusion of trying Maverick's meal, and it would be too rude of her to disappoint him.
"Well see? Raclaw already accepts. And I don't think you'll be fed another human too soon, or at least not in front of him of course. Your master knows him quite well and knows he doesn't like to see things like that. We will leave to the island, but I can ask him to do a meal for you before we leave. Ok?" Angora said as she patted his wing, realizing by now she took too long with him. Maverick and Ilasi were probably waiting for her already, not to mention the stranger of the orb.

After a brief petting, she got ready to leave, when she turned around to look at him and the enclosure.
"You feel lonely here, don't you? Sere doesn't take you out as much as he use to, does he? Look, I can't promise you anything, but I can at least try to convince your master to let you out for a while. I... I'm not sure how to ride you, but I've flown with Shady many times. And of course, only if you want to." Angora said with some skepticism, feeling bad for Veris being cooped up in that enclosure. The few times Sere did take him out, they were too brief, and Veris didn't have the time to hunt anything. If Sere let her take care of him, not only would he have some freedom, but he could also protect them from any more monstrous meat eating iguanas. She really hated the idea of making such request to Sere, but it was for Veris and if Maverick or Raclaw could help her, then better.

Veris gave Angora his typical toothy grin, in full anticipation of the meal - and of Angora's other suggestion. "I can't wait to fly and have more food!" he said eagerly. "Please make sure you come back..." Veris still remembered Angora's earlier comment with the implication that she might not return - which would be a real shame at this point. She was always kind to him and kept him company even when his human couldn't, and he would hate to see her go.

Angora nodded, leaving the enclosure with Raclaw in tow. She almost hugged him in gratitude, but desisted the action, feeling it would be too embarrassing. As they walked, Angora could only think on how she would be able to make such promise. She hasn't even solved her own restriction to the ship and she was already jumping the shark with this promise. She was illusioning the poor wyvern too much, though if she couldn't leave the ship, then at least she could keep the promise on one of Maverick's meal. She knew her friend well. He wouldn't deny her a favor, and after his experience on the island, she knew he wouldn't have any rush to return.

Once on the main deck, she saw Maverick and Ilasi at the exact same spot where they were before. The same with Latnok and the dog. She 'escorted' Raclaw to his friends, managing to look at the old Guardian in the eyes and mouthing the words thank you as gratitude for lending her his friend, even though it was suppose to be Raclaw's free will to do her the favor. It was hard to do it, but looking at Latnok and showing some gratitude, even if it was without a voice, would be practice enough for when she confronted the much harsher Sere.

Ilasi gave a nod, and a smile,.though small initially, crept over her face. "You know, I wonder who this person is that would be willing to help me," she said. "I bet you he's a kind, loving, handsome man..."
Ilasi stopped when she saw Angora head out, bringing Raclaw over to Latnok. Would Maverick call her over, then? That would be their cue to leave.

Latnok appreciated the gratitude - but he found it misplaced. "The one you should be thanking is Raclaw. I don't tell him what to do," he telepathed. He was still satisfied with the gesture, though annoyed by its implication.

Maverick wished Ilasi could continue, but saw why she stopped. Perhaps this little trip could help Ilasi not to feel so uncomfortable around Angora.
"Guess she bonded a little with señor Raclaw. That's good. She needs the interaction." Maverick assumed when he saw his little friend with the fur dragon, misinterpreting the action. He was getting ready to leave when he just remembered about Angora's permission.
"Well, time for me to find el capitán. Angorita can't come with us without permission. I hope you can help me convince him Ilasi." Maverick asked politely, knowing two voices were better than one in cases like this. He knew his girlfriend didn't particularly liked Angora, but also knew she didn't hate her either, so that was some progress.

Angora didn't responded to Latnok, knowing he was right but not thinking much of it. She was grateful to Raclaw, but this wasn't going to be the only favor. She would thank him later and leave him to explain to Latnok the rest of the favor. Latnok wasn't being mean, but she could sense his annoyance. Not that she expected any more of him though. As she turned around, she saw Maverick and Ilasi walking and headed to them.
"Hey Maverick. Talked to Sere yet?" she asked, through she knew the answer.
"Was about to do that Angorita. Come on. It's better if you're there too." Maverick suggested, hoping he could have Ilasi's support on the matter.

Ilasi was okay with coming along for the talk with Sere. Though she doubted that they would be able to change his mind if it was already made up, it was at least worth a try. "I'll be coming, too," Ilasi confirmed. "Maybe some time out here will help you forget about what happened on the ship, at least for a while. Besides, I doubt the captain is too concerned about you getting lost... oh, uh, I didn't mean it like that! Just... well, it's just how it looks..." Ilasi shrank back after her callous comment, frustrated at such a careless, insensitive blunder.

Angora rolled her eyes at Ilasi's comment, but her little smile indicated she wasn't taking it the wrong way. Maverick consoled her.
"It's alright Ilasi. We can take care of each other." he assured, with Angora nodding rather shyly. She still remembered her reunion with the orb man, but she wasn't ready to say anything.

As they walked to Sere's office, the troll took the moment to say to Maverick what happened below with Veris, and the little promises she made to the wyvern.
"Oh, I see, so that's why señor Raclaw was with you. Well, I can cook him a quick meal, as long as he doesn't bite my arms off when I give it to him." Maverick said rather jokingly, still very wary of that wyvern.
"Heh, you're such a wimp. If you're still too afraid of him, I can give him the food. And then Raclaw can help you talk with him. You'll see there's nothing to worry about. The poor thing even believes he's doing something wrong because you're so cautious around him." Angora explained, with Maverick now starting to feel guilty about it. Now he knew a talk with Sere's mount should be necessary.
"Well, not sure if el capitán will allow us to let him out, but I can at least cook him that meal. We'll have to ask el capitán to give you permission to explore the island first. First things first. If we manage to get that permission, then you can make the request yourself. I figure the poor wyvern must be so lonely there too. That's why I try to take my dear Dahlia out often. I would let her out on this trip, but you know, I don't trust this island's wildlife." Maverick expressed, still remembering how Dahlia was injured on Alya's island. Maverick wasn't willing to put her at risk like that again.

Once the trio reached Sere's office, Maverick knocked on the door, not even bothering to check if it was unlocked or even partially open.
"Well, this is it. Good luck to all of us. Say Ilasi, you took care of Dahlia while I was gone I figure?" he asked, though he knew his girlfriend wouldn't leave his own beloved mount abandoned. He had no idea how much the two of them were devastated by his disappearance, so Maverick was determined to make up for lost time. Dahlia would have to wait though.

"Dahlia was very uneasy during the storm," Ilasi answered Maverick. "She didn't... it was hard to get her to eat most of the time... and I don't blame her for that. When she-"
Ilasi was interrupted by the sound of the door opening, revealing a tired-looking Sere. "I take it there's something you need to discuss with me," he said, correctly concluding that this wasn't just a visit for leisure. "Please, come in." He stepped inside, beckoning the others to follow as he headed to his desk. "Last one in, close the door."

Maverick nodded to Ilasi, having said enough and grateful that she took care of Dahlia when he couldn't. They entered the office, with Angora being last and closing the door. Maverick then went to the point, wanting Sere to take some time to rest.
"Yes indeed capitán. Mis disculpas for troubling you señor, but I was wondering if you can give me permission to take Angora with me on the island to sell some of my belongings. And also..." Maverick began to say, quite skeptical with the second part.
"know Shade is in training, but perhaps he can come with us later too? You know, to stretch his wings and such." Maverick asked, surprising Angora that he would be daring enough to bring Shade into the mix when everyone know how limited he was.

Sere seemed disinterested, as he continued drafting plans and schedules for the upcoming days on a piece of paper, only looking back occasionally to show that he was still listening. "She can go, as long as she avoids trying to ruin our reputation with the locals. I don't believe I need to state that I won't take kindly to such actions. As for Shade, speak with Laszur or Latnok about that matter - and he is to stay far away from the local town. I want them to have absolutely no reason to fear us. If that is all, then you are free to go." Sere continued jotting things down, occasionally referring back to the map given to him by the locals.

Angora was very surprised to see Sere being so agreeable, but given the state of his mode, she suspected he was on,y agreeing to the request just so they could leave him alone already.
"Gracias so very much capitán. Don't worry. We'll be on our best behavior." Maverick assured, vouching for Angora. She had no interest in ruining anything, so Maverick knew he could trust her with that.

They all got ready to leave, when Angora realized she almost forgot something very important.
"As a request from my part captain, can I take Veris out? He's so alone in that enclosure, and he misses going out." Angora asked meekly, knowing how skeptical Sere was when it came to his mount. She didn't promise the wyvern going out, but she did promise she would at least try.

Sere gave a sigh at ANgora's request. He was going to instinctively flat-out reject it - but realized that Veris hadn't had much time to get the exercise or attention he needed during the storm, and hadn't gotten a flight this morning. At the very least, it would allow Angora to make herself useful. "...Go ahead. Tie yourself in well if you're flying, and make sure he doesn't fly over the town or do anything else to make the locals uneasy," Sere commanded, before getting right back to his work. "Will that be all?"

Angora nodded, very surprised at how agreeable Sere was with absolutely everything. It was almost too bizzare. But she stick to her theory that he just wanted them gone in order to have a peaceful moment.
"Ok sir. Thank you captain." she said with a rather trembling lip, unable to help still feeling wary of him. She didn't like the idea of thing herself to Veris, but riding him was probably going to be much more different than riding Shade, so she would obey. She could let him fly by himself, but he'd probably go crazy with so much freedom, and it wasn't worth risking him flying near the locals and scaring them off.

After they left Sere's office, Maverick got prepared to leave for the kitchen.
"Alright then, we can finally leave. Ilasi, would it be too much trouble if I ask you to help Angorita in convincing señor Laszur or señor Latnok to let Oscurito come with us? I want to head to the kitchen and prepare that meal for Veris and win us some time." Maverick said, wanting to be present but not wanting to delay their trip to the island any further.

He then looked at Angora.
"As for talking to the wyvern, well, we'll need to have señor Raclaw with us, unless we postpone the conversation until after the trip." he then said, contemplating the possibility that the wyvern may be too busy to have his moment of freedom to want to talk to Maverick at that very moment. He would give the mount a meal, but the talking would probably have to wait.

"I would be glad to help in any way I could," Ilasi said. Once again, she wasn't sure exactly how she would, but coming along couldn't hurt, at the very least. She as very surprised that the requests to Sere went over very well, considering his mood as of late. He seemed to comply more out of indifference than anything else - but a win was a win.

Veris remained in his pen, pacing back and forth. He was already anticipating the food Maverick was preparing for him, and was really hoping for the opportunity to fly once more.

Maverick headed to the kitchen, taking two large hams and started to cook them in high fire to speed up the process, pouring them with a gravy of his own mix. Knowing Veris, he wouldn't mind if it got burned by a little bit. As he cooked, he started thinking about the poor sailor that was devoured by the beast that almost did the same to him. He wanted to do something for him, but he had no idea where he was, not to mention he didn't want to delay the trip any further. There would be time for that. For now, he was just happy to be there, and that Sere was so agreeable even if he wasn't very enthusiastic about their requests.

At the deck, Angora approached Laszur, still keeping an eye on the bored Shade, bitter that he wasn't even allowed to have a decent cleaning. She knew she could talk to Latnok about the matter, but she wasn't in the mood to talk to him after that unpleasant last conversation.
"Laszur? If we may please, we'd like to take Shade to the island for a while. We'll make sure to stay away from the locals. We've already talked to the captain, and he's okay with it as long as we have yours or Latnok's permission." Angora explained calmly, knowing the galud didn't like her too much either, but he was still better than Latnok. At least she had Ilasi there to back her up, even if she was only doing it for Maverick's sake rather than hers or Shade.

Laszur didn't seem quite pleased with the idea, but he didn't have any reason to contradict it - except one. "If he is leaving, I will be coming with you," he said. "I still have a job to do - and the Scourge getting used to not having you around is part of that. Besides that, I don't trust you to stop him from murdering people like he has before. I'll keep an eye on you two."

Angora was disappointed with the condition, yet nevertheless, it was to be expected. She still couldn't interact with Shade, but she would have Veris to take care of, which was more than enough.
"Ok sir. I understand. Thank you. I'll be taking the captain's wyvern anyway, but I want Shade to have some little excercise for a while too." Angora explained calmly, remaining very polite to the galud. She imagined Shade would be jealous of the wyvern spending time with her, but this deal was the best she and Maverick could manage. At least Shade would roam the island and feel mostly free for some time, and that should be enough for him. Before leaving, Angora looked at him beggingly, wanting him to be on his best behavior and stay away from the locals. She knew Laszur would make sure of that, but she would too.

Back at the kitchen, Maverick was done with the meal. It was something quick and simple, and knowing that wyvern, he didn't even bother decorating the platter. As he took away the meat, he was looking forward to that conversation with Veris. After what Angora told him, he was starting to feel ashamed of being afraid of the wyvern. He was so gentle with the little troll, and he never means any harm to her or him, so his fear was truly misplaced. Shade was bigger and even more dangerous and he wasn't afraid of him. The problem with Veris was that he was far more gluttonous, which made Maverick nervous and cautious. Still, he wanted them to get along.

Laszur gave a simple nod before returning to Shade - who he hadn't granted permission to clean himself yet. "What are you doing?" he demanded to know. "Do you remember what I told you? Do you think I'm that forgetful?" It was rather brazen of Shade to do such a thing while Laszur was still up and about - Laszur couldn't help but wonder if this was just a deliberate effort to be defiant.