Lost Dragons ((Myself and Serin))

[Dampylle]

Maximilian Draco was what many might call a loner. So it was no surprise that he was in this age old forest alone despite the fact that most would fear even coming near to these woods or the ruins found within. But Max was also not a man known for fear, far from it as he was one of the few in the many kingdoms who could be called Knight Errant. He was a wandering swordsman and in fact a knight though he had no sworn oath of allegiance to any given kingdom at the moment. But that was another story all together.

He moved through the trees swiftly and confidently wearing a jacket of light sectioned armor. At his hip hung a beautifully crafted sword and upon one arm was a collapsible shield. The odd part about his attire however was the large wrapped bundle that was strapped to his back, sticking from its wrappings was what appeared to be the hilt of a sword though it was larger than any typical blade would have... then again the bundle was a good deal larger than any typical blade as well. It made for a rather odd sight to behold should anyone else be lurking in the woods. His stride was filled with purpose and determination and his eyes scanned the woods as if looking for some sort of sign or indication of something in particular. Finally he paused and keeled to examine the foliage and the way the trail he was on was marked and nodded his head a bit as if confidant he had found what he was looking for.

There was the sound of snapping brush to one side and Max dove into a roll just as a gout of flame filled the space where he was moments before. With a flick of his wrist the shield on his left arm unfolded just in time for him to use it to parry a second gout of flame before diving over the tail of the Dragon that had finally revealed itself. His motions were graceful and lightning quick which was surprising given that he looked to be quite powerfully built. At the moment he also wore a makeshift helm with visor but that seemed more a determent than a help at the moment as it narrowed his field of vision. He dropped into a crouch and raise the shield just in time to take the brunt of another gout of flame before the dragon roared thinking it had won.

Suddenly though there was a resounding click as the flames died down and Max stood tossing the charred shield and several sections of the armor aside. He likewise tossed the helmet to reveal long flowing black hair and eyes of crystal blue which seemed perfect suited to the dashingly handsome face that was now revealed. His right hand went to the massive pommel over his shoulder even as his left reached around and pulled a drawstring on the bundle freeing it and letting its wrapping fall. Now the powerful young man was brandishing a sword easily four feet long if it was an inch and he moved with surprising speed now freed of the armor. He dove over the dragons first swipe spinning as he did so and slashing across the beasts limb in the process earning a howl of pain... he had drawn first blood. But he did not pause when he landed but instead pivoted and swung that mighty blade even as the dragon scrambled away, still he scored a large gouge in the beasts side. He saw the tail coming and ducked low as he charged forward... the dragons tail narrowly missed him but his charge forced the beast to rear up in order to scramble backwards. That was the moment he had waited for and suddenly he stood and brought the sword up in a might vertical swing that gouged the beasts belly, and then with a final lunge he drove that giant blade through the neck of the wounded beast.

As the dragon fell to the ground in its death throws Max dropped to a knee and mumbled to himself, "And to think Alan claimed me a fool for asking the Master to learn that style... will have to make sure to tell him about this next time I am in Asturia." He stood only when the dragon was clearly dead and made his way over drawing the sword at his hip, he used it to carve and force the wound in the beasts belly further open and then reached in with a gloved hand to draw out what he had came to these woods for in the first place, a Drag energist.

No sooner did he have it in his hand than he heard the approach of men behind him and a rather exaggerated applause before a gravely voice spoke, "Bravo... now when we finish we can tell them we killed a dragon slayer not just some fallen knight... you are going to pay for what you did to my brother."

 

[Serin]

An airship was on its way to Fanelia, carrying supplies toward the nation that was trying to rebuild itself. They were a group of merchants, skilled fighters and traders from Austria. Their leader, a young rebellious woman who was the daughter of their former employer, stood at the front of the bridge, glancing out at the glass windows that allowed them to see everything before them. Noting the flames that were coming out of the forest, her brows rose with interest. Her sub commander came to her side and noticed the flames as well.

“A dragon,” he said slowly as he glanced around the bridge. They all knew that there were dragons around Fanelia, for it was one of the most known facts about the small country. It was one of the reasons why merchants preferred to not travel on foot throughout the land, fear of running into one of the beasts. It would surely kill them and all their merchandise. This did not detour the young merchant though. She was the daughter of a wealthy merchant who had passed away shortly before Zaibach had fallen. Thus it became her job to take care of the company, which she did more than willingly. Not being able to stand court, she eagerly ran off to run the family business. It was in her blood, having the same sense of adventure that her father had while he was alive.

Leaning closer to the glass, the woman smirked and started barking out orders to her men to lower the airship. “I want a closer look at this dragon.” She said in a slightly husky voice. The men began to protest, not wanting to risk the ship, but a firm scolding from her got them to bow in submission. Soon the airship was descending, and the young merchant went outside onto the bow of the airship. She had climbed it all her life, ever since she was a child, and knew that she would keep her bearings. Crouching low to the bow of her ship, she held on and glanced down at the forest that was getting closer. She saw the slain dragon, and a few men corning the one covered in dragon blood.

The situation immediately appeared to be fowl. The men were fighting the lone knight, who appeared to be from the area from his garb. She immediately grabbed onto a loose cable and jumped off of her airship, swinging downward into the forest. Landing on top of one of the men who were going to attack the man covered in dragon blood. Unsheathing her blade, she brought it down on another and kicked the man she landed on down so he would stay there. With a playful smirk on her face, she winked at the man holding the huge sword and stood beside him, holding up her dainty saber. It had elaborate writing on it, clearly indicating that it was an antique.

“Need help stranger?” she asked in a chipper tone. The bodice around her torso was made of leather, as was the brown trousers on her legs. She had boots up to her knees and a sash wrapped around her hips. Her white shirt was fluffy around the shoulders, cut short to reveal her tanned skin. Wearing gloves over her hands, she gripped the sword tightly with her right arm. On her left was a jeweled ring, signaling that she was a member of a higher glass family. Her long curly locks flew about her shoulders and back, soft and silky looking as the sunlight hit it. Her green eyes flashed up and met the crystal blue ones of the errant knight.

 

[Dampylle]

Max's gaze was calm and collected as he took in the situation and flashed the young woman a rather dashing smile. He turned his crystal blue gaze to the brigands who had tried to jump him... he counted six of them standing but was fairly sure there were more of them than that. He recognized their leader as the younger brother of another brigand who had tried to get the drop on him in what was a less than fair fight to begin with... it had not ended well for the brigands. He smirked a bit and let his eyes drift to the massive sword still stuck in the dead Dragon. Without a word he took it and drew it from the beast and with a flick of his wrist sent the dragons blood flying to the crisp green grass at their feet. He brandished the massive blade with a shocking skill and grace before smirking and finally answering the young woman who had so recently arrived.

"It would be rude of me to refuse aid out in the middle of nowhere, and I would not want to seem rude." He turned his gaze back to the brigands and then drove his massive sword into the ground beside him before he once more drew the ornate longsword that hung at his side. It was beautifully crafted and seemed the sort of thing that would not be out of place in one of the royal courts or as a gift from the nobility. He dropped into the stance of a trained swordsmen as his eyes held a certain fire to them, "Since you did not bring any Guymelefs this time I guess I will stick to my longsword today."

The leader of the bandits snarled, "You used that sword to take my brothers arm you bastard." Max smirked a bit and then shrugged before resuming his flawless stance, "Then your big brother should not have brought a guymelef to a sword fight."

The leader of the brigands simply snarled and nodded in the knight's direction, three of his men charged without a second though. What happened next was to say the least rather surprising. The young man parried the first thrust with a downward stroke then with a shift of his wrist reversed his blades direction even as a swift kick of his heal through the first parried blade wide... on its upswing it batted the second brigands thrust aside and then with a lightning quick motion it snapped back to stop a mere inch or two in front of the third brigands throat even as drove the elbow of his free arm into the second brigands jaw while simultaneously using the return sweep of his foot to take one leg out from under the first brigand. In what amounted to a few breaths he had grounded two and held the third on the tip of his blade.

"Then again... maybe you should have brought Guymelefs" In the end however the wisecrack was meant to prod them into sloppy mistakes, three men out of twelve as impressive as it may have been... was not a feat that would ensure overall victory. Max knew that he was fast but if more of them rushed at once he would be in a bit of trouble. So he taunted them and hoped the young woman who had descended from the airship was as capable as she seemed.

 

[Serin]

Hearing the stranger’s comment of not wanting to be rude only brought a smirk to the young merchant lips. Oh he’s good… she thought to herself when she saw how effortlessly he wielded the huge blade. He’s really good. Her green eyes flicked around the group, taking in the six men and immediately analyzing how difficult it would be to defeat them all with this stranger. She was rather skilled with a sword, for a woman, but she knew that with this stranger beside her it should be no problem. Knowing the hum of her airship anywhere, she could tell that it was getting closer, descending into the jungle to look for her most likely.

The dispute between the two didn’t really concern her thoughts. From what she gathered this man had injured the other’s brother and the whiny pipsqueak wanted some revenge so he got the gang together. How pitifully pathetic. Not even man enough to fight his own battles on his own... Glancing to the experienced swordsman beside her, she smirked seeing his blade and raised hers once more. Clearly they both had more in common than was originally thought. The mentioning of guymelefs intrigued her even more as well. She had her own locked up in the airship, but that was a matter to be attended too later. Her brows raised highly when she saw how swiftly he had parried the first three’s attack, and it made her smirk devilishly. Okay, he is better than good... I know that fighting style, he must have trained under someone incredibly special, just like-

Her thoughts had been cut short. Two men from behind rushed her but luckily she had heard the snapping of twigs. Immediately spinning around, her thin and graceful form bent as she moved, contorting almost to what seemed to be impossible feats. Her blade immediately whipped out and slashed at one of her attacker’s swords, sending it flying into the air. She immediately kicked him square in his jewels before slamming her booted heel into his jaw, a loud snap being heard. Clearly she was stronger than she appeared. Whipping around to the second one who was charging her, her arm stretched forward and unleashed an array of quick slashes toward his blade, moving almost faster than he was able to process. Thus the difference in their skill. He was a crude excuse for a swordsman, and she was an above par example of a swordswoman. Her father had seen to that little fact.

Quickly flicking her wrist, she slashed at the second man’s belly, cutting deeply, and held her blood soaked blade up toward the others that were surrounding them. Her chest was slowly rising and falling as she breathed, the bodice making it a bit difficult, but she was managing nicely. Spreading her feet out from underneath her, she grinned at a few and let out a low growl, meant to intimidate them. “Well come on!” she shouted, egging them on further. “What’s wrong, are you scared of a petty little woman? You are a bunch of sleazy beggars who deserve nothing but the divine punishment of our blades. I would sincerely advise that you reconsider your options.” A wicked grin spread across her lips as she spoke; clearly she was rather enjoying this whole adventure.

Suddenly the group that was attacking them heard ropes flying through the air and a crash through the forest. The nose of the airship suddenly appeared above them, and ropes were dangling down from the tip. A large figure was descending down toward them, and landed with a rather large crash. Standing upright, the bandits were faced with a man so tall it made even the errant knight appear tiny. Grabbing a large hammer, the giant man swung it toward a three of the bandits, making contact with one. The sound of his ribs breaking immediately filled the surrounding area. Wielding the large weapon with ease, the man’s bulging muscles and scar ridden arms showed that he was someone not to mess with. Clearly he could take out multiple men with one blow of his weapon. This in turn scared the bandits beyond belief.

“About time you showed up, Brawler.” The merchant woman said with a snicker. She jumped for another one of the men attacking her, landing squarely on his chest and slamming him into the ground, knocking all of the breath out of him which rendered him unconscious.

“Of course Mistress,” the huge man said with a deep bear voice. It made the errant knight’s chest quiver; it bore that much strength to it. Brawler then spun his hammer around the errant knight and took out another two of the attackers. All that was left was the leader and two of his goons. Brawler and the young merchant each took a side beside the errant knight, wide smirks across both of their faces as they stared forward. “So, care to dance?” she asked the leader as she flicked her blood tipped saber at him, taking a fencer’s stance.

 

[Dampylle]

Max was a bit surprised at the new arrivals size, people that him a bit over-sized just because he seemed a match for Balgus... and though he was a big man with the muscles to back it up this new arrival dwarfed him in size and strength it seemed. He was never one to look a gift horse in the mouth though and so was all to happy for the help as he noticed more thugs pouring from the woods to meet them. He also noticed the well muscled but still rather curvy young woman holding her own with the help of her giant friend. But then he heard a sound that would have frightened most in this situation and with it an angry howl from the bandit leader.

"Funny you should say that mister cocky knight... because I actually brought two friends of my big brothers with me today." and just as he said it two Guymelefs came crashing through the trees. Max closed his eyes and shook his head as she sheathed the long sword once more at his hip and walked over to the massive blade he left in the ground. It never ceased to amaze him how few people out there seemed to realize that he was probably one of the few men who would not be intimidated even by a Gymelef. He pulled the sword his master had gifted him from the ground and dropped into a very different combat stance as his gaze fell upon the new arrivals and he spoke only a few words though they were uttered loud enough for all to hear, "Guess you didn't learn last time."

What happened next was something most never could have imagined. This man without any heavy armor and that massive sword in hand charged the Guymelefs. Using his impressive physique and a well timed jump fueled by his own power as well as the weight of the suddenly swinging sword... He leaped over the giant of a man who had been addressed as 'Brawler' and even as Max flew through the air and swung that massive blade over his head. The first Guymelef managed to parry his blow with a resounding ring of metal on metal, only for the swordsman to plant his foot on its chest and kick off spining so that his blade swung in a horizontal arc towards the second Guymelef. His second opponent brought up a shield to gaurd against the blow and Max kicked off that with an impressive back flick that landed him just out of range of the first Guymelef's counter attack. He charged forward once more ducking under the sword of the second Guymelef and then shifting his grip planted his stride on the foot of the first Guymelef and leapt up following that leap with a second bound off its leg... and with a powerful upward arc of his blade he cleaved straight through the arm of the first mech sending its blade and limb to the ground even as he planted his foot and pushed off raising his sword to parry the blow from the remaining Guymelef. The blow spun him but he landed gracefully on the ground and used the force of that spin to continue into a spiral even as he charged forward and with a second mighty swing cleaved through the leg of the remaining Guymelef sending it tumbling to the ground.

In the confusion of that moment as the two Guymelefs were reeling he leaped up driving his blade through the energist of the fallen mech, then pulling it out with a leap and a spinning slash drove it into the energist of the now one armed Guymelef before kicking off and landing gracefully once more. As the bandits looked on in shock and fear he casually raised the blade and then rested it across his shoulders with a smirk... most of the thugs were already fleeing in fear and the color had drained from their leaders face.

"I think we are done here... unless you would like to go a round with me on your own... proper honorable combat given you think I wronged you... or we can let this end and be done with it." The bandit leader looked to the fallen Guymelefs and then back to this strange Knight and then simply nodded before turning around and bolting like a frightened child. Max then with one last elegant swing buried his blade in the ground once more and walked over to retrieve his armor and the wrapping for his massive sword. He gathered his things and then double checked to make sure the drag energist was stowed safely in the satchel on his belt before he turned to those who helped him and smiled.

"Thanks for the assist, I am Maximilian Draco... wandering swordsman and general trouble maker if you believe what they say about me in the taverns."

 

[Serin]

The female merchant was staring at the whole scene with wide eyes. She’d never heard of anyone taking on guymelefs before on their own. It was simply unheard of! But here this knight was, defeating them even. She was simply amazed and awed, a bit shocked as well. This was definitely something she wasn’t accustomed too, and it was a pleasant surprise. Brawler stood beside her protectively, a bit unsure if the man they had helped would turn on them next. It was his duty to protect the young woman beside him. With one hand constantly on the hammer, his free hand held her shoulder, dwarfing her appearance even more.

As the pair watched the knight fight, the merchant sheathed her sword after cleaning the tip. Crossing her arms, she smirked as her eyes followed his every movement. Once he was finished scaring the piss out of the ring leader of the group, she watched him gather his things before staring him boldly in the face as he introduced himself to her. Reaching out her hand, she grasped his in the way many wandering merchants would, checking for a blade. She didn’t fear him though; she was doing it out of friendship. There was a wide grin on her face and she promptly bowed her head to the side as a proper lady would.

“No need to mention it! What else are your friendly neighborhood band of merchants for other than to bail a friend out when they’re in trouble?” She chuckled softly before speaking more seriously, but it was clear that she had a sense of humor about her. “It is nice to make your acquaintance Maximilian Draco. I would definitely say that you are a grand swordsman. It’s so hard to find men nowadays with your skill. There’s just the King of Fanelia now and Sir Alan who possess such skill. I must say, I am rather awed by your performance.” Brawler now took his other hand and gave it a gentle shake, clearly not wanting to hurt him in any way.

“Impressive lad.” He said simply as he stared down at the young man, clearly still testing his intentions.

“Oh my manners!” the merchant exclaimed as she tipped a nonexistent hat toward Max. “My name is Bridget La Fontaine.” Giving him a wink, she quickly darted away from the two men and jumped up onto one of the damaged guymelefs, clearly inspecting it. “Hey! Do you think we could salvage this and sell it for spare money!?” she shouted as she started tugging at part of it to see how durable it was. Brawler immediately shook his head and rolled his eyes as he glanced down toward Max. Clearly Bridget was a merchant through and through...

 

[Dampylle]

As the young woman spoke Max was once again wrapping that massive sword of his carefully and fastening the ties around it once more before hefting it and placing it on his back once more. He was used to the looks of shock since to his knowledge only two men ever fought the way he just did, and his master had passed on in the heat of a battle defending Fanelia... so that just left him. He took her hand in a firm grasp and shook it when offered, he noticed the way she checked his wrist seemingly out of habit which was something he had seen often from merchants in his travels. He could not help but chuckle when she mentioned other swordsman, both of whom had trained under the same master as him and one of whom he had actually trained with before they parted ways.

After his chuckle he did decide to make a comment and inquiry though, "Sir Allen? You mean Alan Schezar I am guessing... yes I suppose he is rather skilled, never beat me when sparring though... but a good man and a noble knight just the same." He flashed a rather amused and somewhat cocky smile as he then took the hand of the large man noting the gentle nature of his handshake. Brawler was clearly a man well aware of his own strength and the way he eyed Max seemed to suggest that he was also rather protective of the young woman and cautious given what he had just seen. Max nodded his head slightly in a show of thanks and respect before answering the large man, "Not as impressive as the man who taught me I fear... maybe someday I can do his name the honor it deserves."

Max nodded his head to Bridget as she introduced her self, then almost laughed as she leapt to the damaged Guymelefs that were the results of his handy work. Her excitement and comments made it clear his estimation of her handshake was correct... she was indeed a merchant. As Brawler shook his head Max was inspecting his light armor and then shook his own head before he mumbled to himself, "Damn light armor never seems to survive a bout with a dragon... fire slagged the shield mechanism too... might as well junk it." Max then sighed a bit and walked over to lay his ruined armor at the feet of the dead Dragon as he took a knee and bowed his head in respect. It was true he needed the energist but that did not mean he could not show respect to the powerful beast and honor its sacrifice for his need. He remained that way for a few moments before he stood once more and then walked towards the others.

"I do not suppose you are on the way to Fanelia by chance and could offer me a lift? I have a small place just outside the city proper and need to make my way there to take care of a few things before I head out again."

 

[Serin]

Bridget heard the comment about Alan and nodded in agreement. She understood what he meant. Alan was a different type of fighter than this man. If anything, he resembled the King of Fanelia more. The merchant was completely oblivious to what was going on after that, she was too engrossed in figuring out whether the guymelefs were salvageable or not. Brawler noted how Max discarded his armor and said that he should junk it. it was true that armor like that would not last for long against a dragon, or in heavy fights, thus why the larger man didn’t invest in it. But the young lad had an effective strategy and he couldn’t think of a way to suggest a change without seeming rude.

Brawler turned toward Max, watching him pay respects to the fallen dragon. He immediately could register that the lad was from Fanelia, and upon hearing the question, nodded his head. “Indeed we are. We are bringing supplies to the king. Giving you a lift should be no trouble at all Sir.” He said softly, trying to not ruin Bridget’s excitement over the suits. She was already writing numbers in the air for how much she could get for the metal and other working parts. Shaking his head once more, he spoke to Max, leaning closer to him. “Just, pardon her eccentric behavior.” He whispered before standing straight again, whistling up at the airship before shouting. “Come get these pieces that Our Lady desires to salvage!” His voice was certainly loud enough to be carried up to the airship, and men could be seen scurrying about it as they started to descend on the ropes. Apparently they were used to salvaging things they found.

Bridget was now jumped off of the guymelefs and returned to Max and Brawler’s sides. “So, did I hear something about a ride?” she asked, eyes sparkling up at Max. “No problem at all! Just climb aboard!” And with that, Bridget jumped onto one of the ropes and swiftly began to climb up the 100 feet or so that the airship hovered above the ground. Her agility and strength was rather surprising for a woman, but if you knew Bridget it would all make sense. Brawler in turn grabbed a thicker strip of rope, clearly to support his added weight and started to climb the rope at a much slower rate.

“Need any help Sir Max?” He asked before getting too far off the ground.

 

[Dampylle]

Max simply shook his head politley and double checked to make sure the massive blade on his back was secure before he leaped up to grip one of the ropes and began a rather rapid ascent. His travel worn attired hid a physiqe that was not simply well built but also toned and defined, it was the mark of a man who spent a great deal of time training his body as well as his skills. So while it was true he did not match brawlers considerable size a seasoned warrior would likely think twice before engaging this strange swordmsan in combat. It did not take long for Max to reach the top of the rope and vault over the railing with one hand using the other to balance his landing, another subtle hint at the mans skill as it suggested he was used to carrying the weight of that massive sword on his back more often than not.

He stood gracefully, his long black hair billowing in the wind making him almost look like something out of a fairytale. He realized he had not been back to Fanelia proper in quite some time. It was true that he stopped at his families little home by the waterfall outside the city from time to time, but that was more because of the hidden cave where he could hide his armor among other things... and because that was home, a place to rest his head from time to time when he needed a break from wandering. But he realized he should spend at least some time in the city itself, if nothing else he should visit his masters grave and memorial. His only worry was that remnants of the royal guard might recognize him, and that could attract the attention of the king. He was not a fugitive or anything of the sort but he was not yet sure that any noble deserved his oath of fealty... and knowing that the young king trained under Balgus after his fathers death he worried that if Balgus had spoke of him the king might approach him hoping for a new Knight of Fanelia.

Max had nothing against Van Fanel, in fact quite the opposite... he seemed an honorable and noble young man. But Max was yet testing his mettle as his master had before him, that is why he wondered far and wide pushing the limits of his skills. He knew that when he was in the court there were comments about Balgus finding a proper heir for his teachings but Max did not feel he was worthy of such praise just yet. He would not even consider such an offer from the king nor would he seek out the remaining Blade Masters of Gaia until he was sure he was worthy of the praise people seemed so quick to give him. Skilled though he may be he was not Balgus, and he did not feel he was yet ready to stand beside the legend of his master.

He watched as they hauled up the damaged Guymelefs and could not help but notice the puzzled looks of many of her crew. So few had ever seen such damage done to the massive suits of armor and he doubted anyone outside of Famelia had any idea such a thing was possible. He made his way towards the cabin and stood outside it looking out in the distance at the capital of his home nation and spoke softly to himself.

"I should at least pay my respects before I see to Kaiser and get back on the road... just have to hope things don't get complicated."

 

[Serin]

Brawler eventually got up onto the deck of the airship, and promptly walked past Max as he entered the cabin. The large man vanished inside of the ship and remained to be unseen for quite some time. Bridget was in the meantime barking orders out to her men on where to store the guymelefs. They loaded them into the cargo bay of the airship, hoisted up from the ground with cables and rope. The merchant quickly took her spot on the bridge, watching as they got closer to Fanelia to make their way to assist the rebuilding country. Bridget turned toward Max and nudged him with her elbow, noticing how good looking it was. It made her smirk, but other than that she appeared to have a good amount of control over her feminine urges.

“So tell me, what are your plans after going to Fanelia? Are you travelling anywhere in particular? Because we could certainly use someone like you around when we have more precious cargo to transport.” Her hand slowly reached up and her fingers slowly toyed with the leather belt that was wrapped around her throat a few times, forming a collar almost with the way it was coiled around itself. Lowering her hand, she glanced up into his crystal blue eyes with her emerald ones. “But don’t feel obligated or anything, it’s just an open ended offer. I can compensate you more than enough though for your services.” She said softly as she walked toward the front of the bridge.

The sash that was tied around her hips gently whisked around as she walked, there was an obvious sway in her hips that most women had, although hers was less ladylike for a woman of her noble blood. Her hand rested upon the silver saber at her side as she stared forward, the airship preparing to dock in a designated area where they could unload their supplies. “I’m hungry,” she said sporadically toward Max before walking off of the bridge. “Come join me!” she said ecstatically as she dragged him through the belly of her ship.

After many winding corridors, they reached the mess where Brawler was cooking something that smelled delicious. She immediately stole a roll from a pile and sat on the counter that the giant was using to sort ingredients. “I can’t wait until we get some better food supplies. I’m tired of eating beans.” She said with a sigh patting her belly. Bridget acted more like a man at times than a lady, but it was rather refreshing for many of the crew.

 

[Dampylle]

Max was a knight but he was not blind, so the way Bridgets full bust bounced as she bounded around as well as the rather exagerated swap of her lush hips leading to those toned legs was not missed by him. He reminded himself though that he was a gentlemen and so had to remind himself that he was not supposed to stare no matter how appealing the curvy captain of the airship might be. He was thankful when she spoke as it gave him a distraction, he really needed to spend less time in the woods all alone.. maybe then he would not find himself stairing at the first georgous woman who came along.

"I figure I might visit my masters grave... then head to my families place outside town to finish a bit of a project I am working on. No idea where I will go from there to be honest. I am mainly traveling to test and hone my skills as my master did before me. The way I see it a swordsman can not know the limits of his skill or improve them if he does not test his metal." Her offer held a certain appeal, a warm bed might be a nice change of pace from knights under the stars... especially on those colder nights. Bridget seemed playful enough but he also thought he caught her eyes lingering once or twice and that made him wonder if maybe she had a bit more of an interest. He pushed that thought aside though. Allen had always been the one who the women fell over not him.

He considered her offer though explaining Kaiser might be a bit complicated, after all it was not the most common sort of thing to come across and she was a merchant after all. But he also knew that because of how his prized machine worked it could not be taken by force since it simply would not work for anyone else. Before he could answer though she had grabbed his incredibly well muscled arm and was dragging him through the myriad hallways till they reached the galley.

Max took a seat beside Bridget though he was a bit more willing to wait for Brawler to finish preparing whatever meal he had in the works. Max unslung the massive blade from his back and leaned it against the wall beside him as he noticed how Bridgett seemed far less worried about the niceties of conduct than most women... maybe that was part of why the group full of men did not really eye her over the way she likely would be by most men. Max however again could not help but notice, but in the end reminded himself that at the moment he was simply hitching a ride and even if he did come back she would be his employer in which case such thoughts could get him in trouble.

 

[Serin]

Everything on Max’s agenda seemed more than adequately possible on Bridget’s itinerary. She gave him a swift nod so that he would know it was plausible in her mind. As they sat in the galley, Bridget was quickly eating a roll like she had eaten nothing for the day. Watching Max set his blade down, she slowly set her saber between her crossed legs and handed Brawler spices whenever he needed them. “If you did decide to join my gang, we would do whatever was needed to get things done for you. We don’t mind making pit stops. After all, it could be profitable for the gang and theyhave been complaining for more shore leave.”

She sniffed hungrily at the food and her stomach let out a rather loud growl. “Brawler, how long until food’s ready?” she whined softly at him. Turning to face Bridget, Brawler held up a few of his fingers. Whimpering again, she slowly nodded and waited for the meal to be finished. Looking at Max, she gave him a soft smile and a wink as her fingers once again began to play with the belt around her neck that acted like a collar. “So tell me, are you been travelling for some time?” she watched him curiously as she toyed with her neck wrapping. Even for being a merchant, she still smelled nice and was feminine enough.

“After we go to Fanelia, we were planning on returning to Asturia to get the ship worked on. Does that interest you at all? The only thing I can promise is that with our gang, there’ll be a lot of adventure. If that fits your fancy, perhaps you should consider my offer more thoroughly.” She smiled softly and turned to Brawler as he handed them each a bowl of hot bean soup. Sighing a bit as she blew on it, she slowly began to eat it once it was cool enough. “I can’t wait to have some meat...” she said longingly as she imagined having fresh stores of food. It was apparent that she really wanted to land and replenish the stores of the ship.

 

[Dampylle]

Max unwittingly let his eyes linger for a few moments on the lovely curves and toned figure of the captain. He chuckled a bit to himself without explaining why, he really did need to spend less time in the wilderness... though he had to admit there were many women who did not possess the toned body of Bridget let alone the full bust and hips to make it seem all the more alluring. But Max imagined that Brawler frightened most who noticed her more enticing traits away before they even had a chance to comment. He considered her offer but then decided she deserved fair warning even if he was not sure he would tell her about his little toy just yet.

"Perhaps, would be easier to find ways to test my skill if i did not spend so long in the middle of nowhere... but it is only fare to warn you that for several reasons, trouble seems to have a way of finding me.... as for your other question, I have been away since before the Zaibach war for the most part, my master died early in the war and my family passed before that so I have not had much reason to linger here." He nodded his thanks to Brawler and then blew softly on his soup before letting it rest for a moment then began to eat. Even how he ate hinted at his upbringing for he handled even something so simple with practiced manners and elegance. He heard the comment about Asturia and remembered talk that Allen had helped King Van with the Escaflowne... maybe he should pay Allen a visit after all.

He nodded his head slightly in appreciation to Brawler for the meal then took some bread to dip carefully into the soup. He had at least one major concern though and it was the very thing that had brought him back to Fanelia in the first place. The drag energist for Kaiser had cracked and he needed a replacement, but how was he supposed to explain that a wandering knight not only had a guymelef tucked away... but an Ispano Guymelef. He gave a puzzled sigh of sorts and then looked to the lovely Bridget before he spoke once more with a rather serious expression.

"I may have actually understated that last bit... there is a good chance that if you take me on it will attract some very unpleasant people, but I can not say much more than that."

 

[Serin]

Bridget turned to Max and rested her hand on his knee, giving it a good pat or two. “Dear, what you fail to realize is that we are always getting ourselves into trouble. Seriously, don’t stress yourself out about it. We are a tough crew.” Hearing him mention wandering before the war with Zaibach, Bridget nodded and continued to eat her soup. She noticed how Max ate with better manners than her, and tried to be more polite. The woman had been raised with manners, just had forgotten a lot of them being stuck on a ship with a bunch of men for months on end. When you’re away from high class society and life for long periods of time, things tended to get jumbled, at least in her case.

They were now alone in the galley; Brawler was disbursing soup to the other shipmates and had waved his hand at Max’s thanks for the meal. the man was used to being in charge of feeding everyone on the ship. Despite his large appearance, he was rather sweet once you got to know him. Hearing Max sigh, Bridget turned to face him and listened intently as he spoke about attracting trouble.

Slowly lifting her hands, she unclasped the belt around her throat and slowly unwound it, holding the leather in her hands as she stared at him. There was a long scar along the right side of her throat, and she flicked her hair back so Max could get a clear look at it. “I was serious when I mentioned trouble not being an issue for me and the gang. Trust me, we will be alright.” Quietly rewrapping the belt around her throat, she covered the scar up once more and smiled at him as she re-crossed her legs.

“I’m not saying you have to make up your mind right now, but think about it. We will be docked in Fanelia for a few days, so we won’t be going anywhere.” Finishing the rest of her soup, she slid off of the counter and put the bowl in a sink. Gripping her saber, she winked at him and started leaving the galley. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go make sure we land correctly. You are free to wander the ship and explore, just don’t break anything.” She flicked her hair over her shoulder before climbing up the stairs that led away from the galley. Her chest bounced as she ascended, and it only made her femininity stand out more boldly.

 

[Dampylle]

Max could not help but notice the way her large breasts bounced as she made her exit. He marveled at the fact that no one around seemed to see her as the busy and toned bombshell that she clearly was. He did not know why but he was not going to press the matter. His thoughts drifted to what he needed to do back at his home... renewing the bond and setting the new energist would not take to terribly long but he could not just walk into Fanelia without draping the large cloak over Kaiser to ensure no one realized it was an Ispano. It was no crime to own a Guymelef or even an Ispano Guymelef but Max always worried about drawing undue trouble because of it.

He finished his soup then reached down to his hip to ensure he had the treasure that had brought him to that forest in the first place. He felt the weight and warmth of the energist where it rest at his hip in the satchel. He stood and nodded to Brawler again then made his way up to the deck. His gaze was out on the woods of his homeland and the fast approaching city. If he took her offer, even if it was just to save him time on the trip to see Allen, he would need to bring Kaiser to the ship and that could be trouble if those bandits had not given up. But if he did not try he ran just as much if not more chance of someone noticing or finding out as he traveled to Asturia.

He would visit Balgus' Grave when they landed then would go see to the neccesary preperations on Kaiser and make his way back to the docks. He would simply have to hope that nothing went wrong. IT did not take long for the ship to land and make port. Not long after that he was in the area near the palace and made his way to a stone monument to the fallen blade master. He took a knee there and closed his eyes before speaking softly, "I am not quite there yet Master but I am getting closer... I will travel into the other lands once more and seek out challenges and ways to improve... and maybe when I return I will be a worthy successor."

He then stood and made his way out of the city and down a winding path to a fanciful house that seemed partly carved out of the mountain wall. To its side was a beautiful waterfall and it was towards that sight that his gaze drifted. In the end he made his way inside though and took a quick shower then grabbed a fresh change of clothes and packed up several changes of clothes and a fresh set of armor just in case he needed it. With that satchel thrown over his shoulder he made his way not towards the bolted door at the front of the house but rather towards an ornate bookshelf at the back of the house. He ran his hand along the bottom of one of the shelves and found a catch there pressing it even as he pressed down on a bevel in the desigh and there was a loud click. Max slid the shelf out a bit to reveal a hallway behind it and then pulled it closed behind him.

Moments later he was unlocking a large armored door and entering a cave that was hidden behind the waterfall. There standing near a platform was a sight to behold... a black Ispano Guymelef with ornate trim, one of its arms adorned with what looked like a shield and a red cape draped from its shoulders and at its hip what appeared to be a wicked looking blade. Max made his way up to the platform and then took at the Drag Energist mumbling something softly as if speaking to the giant suit of armor and then he cut his own hand and pressed the energist into the receptacle in the armor. He then bandaged his hand and opened the great suit of armor placing his satchel inside and then climbing in himself. The Guymelef came to life at his touch and with a massive hand reached out to retrieve a simple black cloak which he then draped over its massive frame. The hood of the poncho like garment also served to hide the rather distinct look of its helm. Suitably hidden from prying eyes he opened the massive metal gates and then locked them behind him before walking out through the waterfall and making his way back towards the city proper.

It did not take long to reach the city using Kaiser as his transportation and he stuck to the main roads in the city itself so that he would not have trouble traveleing towards the docks. Even wrapped in this traveling cloak the Guymelef drew stairs but Max did not dally enough for it to be an issue. Soon he was at the docks gazing on the ship once more and called out from within his Guymelef, "Is Bridget aboard... she made me an offer not long ago for passage and maybe a bit of work."

He ignored the shocked looks of the crew, he knew that they likely would not have expected him to arrive with a Guymelef but he could not leave it unguarded for long... he would not risk his families home that way.

 

[Serin]

The members of the crew who were in charge of the cargo bay were a bit shocked when they saw Max approach from inside a Guymelef. It wasn’t something they were expecting. Granted they knew that Bridget had a strange ability to attract those who had interesting pasts or things they were carrying with them, but this by far was the largest surprise they had ever seen. Someone spoke to Max, informing him that Bridget wasn’t onboard but that she would be relatively soon, and that he might as well just part his Guymelef in the back because they had a feeling Max was going to join the crew. Actually it was less of a feeling and more of the fact that Bridget had shouted it to all of them before leaving the airship.

The men scurried around the floor of the cargo bay, moving things around so that Max could walk inside with the machine without ruining any of the crates that were being removed. Eventually the crew started to fight with each other about what should go where, but Brawler soon took care of that. The large man was delivering more food to the crew, and had seen Max from within the Guymelef.

His face didn’t change much when he saw it, Brawler actually remained quite calm. After a few orders being barked out by the huge man, the crates were moved and he motioned Max further inside of the cargo bay. Directing him with his large hands, Brawler eventually got Max’s Guymelef to one of the mounting seats, next three other Guymelefs. The one that was directly next to his though was unique, too unique. Once Max was done setting his Guymelef in the seat, he would be able to properly take a look at the Guymelef beside his.

The Guymelef wasn’t as large as his; it was a bit shorter and possibly faster. The cape wasn’t pulled over it; instead it was fully exposed to view. Clearly it wasn’t being hidden from anyone. The suit appeared to be functional, but Max wouldn’t be able to tell without investigating it, which he couldn’t do because he didn’t know who it belonged too. The Guymelef was black like his, but almost a bit lighter in color. The bone-like pieces that comprised of the suit had some gashes and scratches, clearly having been used in battle more than once. The head of the suit had a distinct look to it that Max should have been able to recognize. This was clearly not just any regular Guymelef, this was an Ispano. He could see the crystal cortex that would house the energist that powered the machine and surprisingly there was one inside. This suit must have belonged to someone on the ship. Or perhaps it was being delivered somwhere? He couldn’t say for sure, but it was definitely something he’d have to investigate further.

Brawler turned to look at the opening of the cargo bay to see Bridget coming on board. She was debating with a few people, clearly about how to deliver the supplies to Fanelia. It was clear from the expression on her face that there was quite a few things she was dealing with at the moment, and Brawler immediately shifted his form, causing a few of the men swarming around Bridget to back off. Clearly he had quite a bit of influence in the crew’s behavior around her. Perhaps he was the reason why Bridget wasn’t married? He was the ‘knight’ fending off suitors. Perhaps it was due to her request, or her deceased father?

Regardless, Bridget looked up at both of them and gave the men a tired smile. After wiping her brow with her gloved hand, she stared up at them both and put her hands on her hips. “I swear, they argue so much the night before they get shore leave it’s not even funny.” She was referring to the fact that many members of the crew were trying to get their job done as quickly as possible so they could go raid the nearest pub. Bridget wasn’t as frugal as some merchant pilots, but nothing could beat getting drunk in a pub at night. She was considering it herself when Brawler snapped her from her thoughts.

“Perhaps we should stay at an inn tonight?” the way he spoke to her was clearly that of a father, perhaps Brawler had been more of a surrogate parent to her than was visible to the naked eye. Bridget contemplated over the thought for a few moments before Brawler patted her shoulder, leaving the two to talk. “I will deal with the men, you take care of him.” He was clearly referring to Max, and the large man started shouting at the crew, scaring them into working faster. Bridget smiled as he left and turned to look at Max. She hadn’t seen him for a few hours and realized what he had been up too. Her eyes were immediately transfixed on the Guymelef next to hers, and then stared at Max blinking a few times.

“I take it that’s what you were referring too when you mentioned trouble.” She held her hands above her head and stretched before folding them behind her head. Standing there for a few moments, her body swaying as she thought, she smirked at Max and gave him a wink. “It’s nothing we won’t be able to manage. It’s not the only suit we have on board, so don’t worry about it.” she said pointing to the other suits that were across from him. It appeared that she also had two regular functioning Guymelefs along with the two that they were going to try and sell for a profit. Clearly Bridget was a collector with unique taste. It wasn’t surprising at all that she was a merchant.

Turning away from Max, she started to walk down the cargo bay before pausing, motioning him to follow. “Well don’t just stand there, let’s go get something to drink at the inn.” She gave him one of those winks that she tended to give quite often, and kept walking out. The crew appeared to be leaving as well, rather excitedly actually as they piled into Fanelia’s streets. Bridget made her way through the bustling crowd and eventually arrived at a local inn. Buying rounds for her men, she held up her pitcher of ale before taking a hearty swig from it. She retired to the upper floor of the establishment and crossed her legs, leaning back in a chair as she enjoyed her drink. Watching the men laugh and drink, telling stories she’d heard a million times, a smile crept across her lips. This was her home, her family. There wasn’t anywhere else she would want to be.

Glancing up at Max, she smiled at him warmheartedly, clearly pleased that he had decided to follow her into the town. “So, how did visiting your Master’s grave go earlier?” She asked as she lowered her feet off of the small table, inviting him to sit beside her as she watched the men enjoy themselves.

 

[Dampylle]

Max was securing the massive form of Kaiser, still covered by a simple beige hooded cloak that obscured the truth of what it was including the ornately carved mask that was part of the helm. He exited his concealed treasure and made sure it was secure before his eyes glanced to the smaller black ispano seated beside it. That was a bit of a surprise though he said nothing about it for the time being. Instead he simply turned his gaze out over the cargo bay and noticed the way that Brawler acted in the defense of Bridgett, a surrogate father it seemed... that was something he had once upon a time in his master but the war had taken that from him. He heard the comment assuming that it was just having a Guymelef that was the trouble he was referring to earlier and shook his head, "Not quite... but all things in due time."

He leaped down elegantly from Kaiser even as Brawler so willingly left Bridgett with him. It was an act that surprised him given how protective Brawler had seemed only moments before and he was sure that his random glances had not gone unnoticed by Brawler. He wondered if that meant he had impressed the large man or earned his trust in some way. He tried not to let his mind linger on it because he did not want to get himself into trouble so soon after arriving. He could not help but watch the sway of her hips as she insisted he follow her to the inn and pub though. He still had his sword strapped to his back as he followed and his thoughts began to wander as he thought on the fact that she might have something to say about Kaiser sooner or later, at the very least she would likely want to know where he had acquired such a Guymelef.

He followed her to the inn and for the first few moments was by himself off to one side of the pub, at least until she motioned him over. He made his way over and sat beside her. When she had her legs kicked up, shapely though they are, it was easier to pass her off as just a member of a ships crew... but when she shifted as she had and invited him closer it was far harder to ignore her feminine whiles. He shrugged a bit at her question then answered, "As well as can be expected I suppose... there was no trouble so to speak, seemed that some of them men you were dealing with were a bit more forward than Brawler approved of though I noticed." He accepted a drink and took a sip then pondered his next words carefully, "He seems rather protective of you, I was actually rather surprised when he left you alone with me after seeing that."

 

[Serin]

When she heard his comment about the grave, she nodded slowly and drank from her ale. She herself knew that sometimes visiting graves could be consoling while other times aggravating. “I wasn’t asking about trouble Sir Max.” Bridget narrowed her eyes at him before smirking at him. She hoped that he would understand what she meant, and she went back to drinking her ale before his next statement hit her. Her eyes shifted toward him as she blinked a few times.

“Sometimes it can be hard being a female merchant. Men don’t take you seriously, so sometimes I need to be a bit more forward and brash than usual. Don’t worry thought, everything is under control and will be fine.” Smiling at him she leaned back in her chair and took a glance at her men, barking at them because she could tell that a few might get into a fist fight with each other. “We’re here to celebrate fools!” she yelled through grit teeth. Turning back to Max, she nodded before answering his question.

“My father died when I was younger. And of course being daddy’s little girl, I got the family business much to my mother’s displeasure. Brawler was my father’s right hand man, thus why he is mine. He helped raise me and has been like a father after mine died.” There was a warm smile on her face as she sipped her ale. Max could tell from the look in her eyes that she did love Brawler like a father. Then a playful smirk crept across her cheeks.

“I guess your Guymelef impressed him.” She giggled playfully at him before looking back down at the main floor of the tavern. “Don’t worry; it doesn’t bother me at all. And if you want to talk about your Melef then I’ll listen. But I won’t force it out of you. I will however let you know that the one next to yours is mine.” Her emerald eyes met his crystal blue ones, a glint of mischief in them as she watched him.”

 

[Dampylle]

Max shook his head a bit but it was with a smile, "No not here, to many ears for my taste to discuss that subject... and I somehow doubt Brawler is keen on leaving you alone with some wandering rogue of a swordsman who has been drinking." He chuckled a bit at that part, though she had called him sir he seldom really felt like a knight these days. Aside from his skill and his family name there did not seem to be much in his eyes that set him apart from any other wandering warrior out there in the wild world of Gaia. He sipped at his ale and then ordered another before leaning back and stretching, unwittingly giving quite the view of his broad chest and sculpted arms to those who bothered to look closely enough.

"My father died when I was young so I can relate to that, all I had after that was my Master... but the beginning of the Zaiboch war took him as well so now it is just me by my lonesome. So I have not spent much time in any given place. Just wandered and tested my mettle against any challenge that the world gave me. It has not been an easy life but it has been interesting more often than not." His crystal blue orbs met her sparkling green gaze and he could not help but wonder what mischief danced in her eyes. He knew that she was a strong woman and that seemed able to handle herself. The scar she had shown also suggested that she had seen her share of trouble over the years. But still he wondered what exactly she might have in mind.

He downed the recently delivered ale and then ordered another as well as something a little stronger. His eyes wandered a bit without him realizing it as he took in Bridget's large bust and toned body once more, she might be called amazonian if she were taller but as it was she was simply a very tempting and well muscled package. He smirked a bit and then downed the recently delivered ale and leaned back to rest a bit. He realized he should know better than to eye her like that... if Brawler caught him looking at her like that he might find himself in a bit of trouble. Part of him however wondered if it just might be worth it.

 

[Serin]

“Zaibach took my father as well,” Bridget said grimly as she stared into her ale. The colored liquid was a pretty color to the woman, and she could see her eyes reflection inside of it. “Not directly, but it was defiantly due to the war and their lust for power.” She glanced up at the dimly lit inn, her crew now fully intoxicated and trying to pick up the local women. “A few soldiers ambushed and raided the ship, in turn killing him with their blood lust. I remember watching him fall on the desk as the soldiers left. I held his giant hand in my small one until he finally passed.” Her eyes shook a bit as she remembered the event, but quickly wiped them to prevent any tears from falling.

“Now they are gone though, and that’s what’s important. It’s our job to prevent another power, another empire like that from ever rising again. That’s one of the reasons why I’m helping Fanelia out of my own pocket; we need more nations like theirs to change the world.” Seeing how much ale Max was ordering, she couldn’t help but smirk to herself. Then she noticed how defined his muscles were and forced her gaze to divert. Other than Brawler, she wasn’t used to being around very strong men. It was rather common to see her beating up on the crew than them beating each other up. Bridget had managed to establish that she was an equal, and they feared her wrath if they dared to put her in a bad mood. She wasn’t able to drink as much as a Max, but she could still hold her own rather well. Perhaps this night she just wasn’t much into the mood for drinking like the others. From a passing bar maid, she ordered a second round of ale for herself and some roasted meat.

Bridget could feel eyes on her, and shot a glare around her as she searched the second floor. Seeing that no one was looking at her, she suddenly realized that it must have been Max. A very faint blush slowly crept across her cheeks but she immediately took a large gulp of ale. She knew that she was rather attractive for a woman, but had always had issues accepting it. brawler had done a good job of scaring men away, so she didn’t have to deal with the fact that she was seen as ‘pretty’ by people. The scar upon her neck, as well as a couple others, was what she considered beautiful on her body. She was rather backward compared to women of the time in her standing, but it was simply how she was raised. Her father had come from a long line of strong, independent women, women whose example she desired to follow.

As the roasted meat and ale arrived, she tipped the bar maid well and started to eat. Offering some of the meat to Max, she winked at him as she chewed on it, savoring the taste. “I’ve missed this...” she said as she chewed and watched her men. “I’ve missed the happier times...” Now leaning closer to the table as she ate, the distance between her and Max was less. Her emerald eyes glanced over at his as she wiped her cheek with a napkin, not all of her rich upbringing went to waste. “I suppose you aren’t used to a lot of interaction with people hmm? After being out in the woods for so long. Part of me envies you. I’ve thought about buying a cabin in the forest for quite some time now, just living there in the peace and quiet without a care in the world.”

 

[Dampylle]

Max finished his ale then downed the glass of potent spirits as well before accepting her offer and savoring the roasted meat of his homeland. He also motioned that his drinks should be replaced. He did not speak for a time as he thought about what she said. He had always been a bit of a loner and so had never really given it much thought to be honest. His families home was outside the city after all and so the woods and mountains were more home to him than the city really was. They traveled to the city for needed supplies and so his father could speak to the King... his father had sworn fealty to the King but there was no familial oath for the house of Draco. It was why he was technically considered a Knight Errant.

Finally he spoke, "I suppose I am more used to keeping to myself... my home is no small cabin but it is outside the city and more a part of the mountain and forest than anything else. I suppose my wandering has given me a lot of time to myself as well, just me and Kaiser out in the wilderness save for the animals and the land." He sipped his fresh ale and continued to work at the roast meat when it was offered to him. He was also suddenly aware of just how close Bridget was to him and had to force his eyes, and his mind, from wandering once more.

It was part of why he was nursing the tankard of ale and eying the hard spirits once more. It was a distraction to dull his senses just enough that he could fool himself into thinking she was just another merchant and not a powerfully built and buxom beauty, he smirked and suddenly thought that might take more ale and spirits than the pub had to offer in the long term. One advent of the long times he spent alone is despite looks that easily rivaled those of the knight he used to train against, and a body of sculpted muscle much like that of his late master... he had far less of an impression on how it affected those around him. So he was neither cocky or overconfident in his appearance. He slowly nursed his ale before he continued with his earlier questions.

"Yes the prevention of such abuse of power is why my family never offered a familial oath of fealty... each generation choose a king or kingdom and it ends with the death of the one who uttered the oath." He took another sip of his ale before continuing even as his crystal blue gaze stared out into the night, "So I am guessing Brawler is rather particular about who he leaves you with then... seems the protective sort... though I suppose out in the woods he could relax a bit if he wanted."

 

[Serin]

“I envy you in that you are making your own path. Granted I am doing the same, to an extent. But I know that being from noble family of Asturia my loyalty is secured. I do primarily keep to myself as well, excluding the crew. I avoid my family as much as possible, which you’ll probably see once we dock in Asturia. I am sure that my mother will be there waiting to whisk me away and put me in a dress.” Bridget made a sour face at this thought. “I’ll probably sneak out in a crate again...

“I do hope though with this new found peace things should be much easier for me and the crew to travel and trade, discovering long lost treasures. Thus why we are here in Fanelia. I am paying for this little adventure out of my own pocket because I want to see other nations and more people rise up to change the world. With Zaibach gone we have a chance at doing that finally.” Sipping at her second ale now, she glanced over to Max as he mentioned Brawler leaving her alone with people. She couldn’t help but chuckle and immediately nodded.

“He is rather particular about that. I don’t know if my father made him promise to keep me unwed or what.” She laughed a bit before staring at the glass in her hand. “I am thankful though, he keeps my mother’s attempts at marrying me off in a stand still.” There was a bit of sorrow in her eyes. Like most women who were well to do in Asturia, it was highly probably that Bridget’s mother was trying to marry her off into a wealthy family to keep their family wealth booming. Max could clearly see that an arranged marriage was not on the young woman’s agenda.

“I actually got the idea of living in a cabin from him. Before he started traveling with me on the ship, he had retired to a little cabin in the country. It was always so peaceful there when my father was still alive; he would take me there to visit when my mother was away traveling.” She gave Max a bright smile and finished off her second helping of ale. “Perhaps you’re someone he actually feels I’ll be safe around.” She said as she ran her finger around the rim of the glass, clearly in thought. The ale was clearly affecting her, her cheeks were pink and her eyes a bit glossy, but she still had firm control over herself. Her eyes were wandering a bit more and she caught herself staring at Max more than once. Realizing that she should probably retire for the night before she made a fool of herself, she slowly got out other chair and bowed her head to him. “I think I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity to sleep in a real bed, so I will see you in the morning.” She winked at him before walking up the stairwell to the third floor of the inn, disappearing at the top of the stairs.

Upon entering an empty room, Bridget removed her boots and collapsed on the moderately sized bed. Letting out a loud sigh, she rolled over and held a pillow, enjoying the freshly cleaned sheets. It had been quite some time since she slept in a nice bed, and she was thoroughly enjoying it. Removing her clothes, she lay in her undergarments staring up at the ceiling. She was wondering about Max, his past, the Guymelef, and why she couldn’t keep her eyes off of him. Smacking her cheeks a few times, she rolled over and held a pillow close as she forced her thoughts to go silent, passing out where she lay.

 

[Dampylle]

Max felt the ale and spirits having an affect on him though not quite the one he expected. Even as he noticed Bridget taking longer and longer glances at him while she spoke of Brawler trusting him and her desire not to simply be married off to some rich family... his own eyes went more and more to her lush figure and those fiery eyes. He found himself tempted to mention that generations of knighthood had left his family fairly well to do but that he had no such concerns since his mother had died in childbirth and his father fighting at the side of the King of Fanelia. When she stood he found his eyes glued to the sway of her full hips and the bounce of her large bust when she went up the stairs.

He shook his head a bit and then looked down at his ale and finished it and the meat she had ordered. He wondered why he could not stop looking at her as far more than just a merchant or employer, when he looked he saw a strong and very attractive woman. Part of him wondered if Brawler had some agenda of his own but that simply made him chuckle and then he finished the glass of powerful spirit and leaned back to close his eyes. Though his minds eye was no less affected by his thoughts than those he had just closed, and it too was filled with images of her lush curves and toned limbs. He felt himself flush at those thoughts and something inside him stirred a bit.

He shook his head clear for a moment and then stood and walked over to the barkeep, he tossed enough currency on the counter to cover his drinks as well as everything that Bridget had ate and drank and a decent tip for the server. The barkeep raised an eyebrow and spoke softly, "The young lady already payed for everything." Max shook his head a bit then spoke softly as well and slide even more currency across to the man, "Let her pay for the crew, but this should cover her room as well as the meal and drink we had and my room... so you can remove those charges from her tab." The man shrugged but then nodded and took the money.

Max made his way up to the room that had been arranged for him , he wondered for a moment how large the rooms on the ship were... he did not mind cots or even bedrolls but he had the means ti get a few beds for those deserving if the room were large enough and he new a few craftsman in Asturia so perhaps he could see to something when they arrived there. For now he striped down to his undergarments folding his clothes and placing them at the bedside upon a chair, he leaned his weapons against that chair as well and then lay down and closed his eyes. He lay there with his powerful frame uncovered and simply relaxed on the lavish bed letting himself drift off to sleep.

 

[Serin]

Bridget awoke the next morning early as she always did. After stretching around in the bed, she picked up her scattered clothes off of the floor and got dressed, pulling her boots on over her feet. Making her way downstairs, she was adjusting her bodice as she met the person in charge of the inn. Not even caring to see the tab, she just asked how much it was and paid it before making her way toward the ship. Knowing that most of the men were still asleep, she took the chance to return to the ship and take a quick bath.

Once cleaned up, she rubbed herself down with some fragrant oils before putting on a fresh shirt and trousers. Attaching a bodice with embroidery on it around her middle, she pulled part of her hair up into a high bun then wrapped the belt around her throat to cover the long scar on the side of her throat. Now she was ready to get to work and would do so. As the sun rose, Bridget sat in her small office in the airship, writing up request orders for supplies that she would take into Fanelia with her.

Once the sun had gotten an edge on her, Bridget left the ship and walked through the busy streets of Fanelia. She rather enjoyed the liveliness of the city, already seeing some of the supplies they had delivered being put to good use by the civilians. Stopping at an armory, market, and linen store, she ordered what she needed before deciding to take a leisurely stroll through the industrial district. After ordering some raw materials that could be used for repairs on their ship, Bridget found herself sitting at a little bakery eating some bread. Her emerald eyes flicked around the crowd a few times before shifting the saber at her side. It had been a long time since things had been so peaceful, but it was a pleasant change to how things had been during the war with Zaibach.

Once she was finished with her breakfast, Bridget started walking toward the ship, a bounce in her step as she waved to members of her crew as they started to emerge from the inn. When she was closer to the ship, she barked a few orders out to the crew who were loading up supplies. Grabbing a few things as she inspected the crates, she helped the men secure a few in place so they wouldn’t move once they were back on route to Asturia.

Smirking a bit, she went to the bridge and patted Brawler’s shoulder in greeting as she sat upon the railing between the upper and lower levels of the bridge, her legs swinging a bit as she watched the members of her crew monitor the instruments of the ship. It was all typical maintenance they did while docked somewhere for more than a day. Bridget glanced around at the ship a few times, wondering if Max was wandering through the city or somewhere on the ship. Immediately feeling her cheeks flush a little, she shook her head and smacked her cheek to get her head out of the clouds. She had things to do, and she did her best to distract herself with them as the afternoon slowly approached.

 

[Dampylle]

Max had woken early as he often did. The inn was still quite when he rose from the bed and then donned his traveling garb silently. He moved with the practice ease of a man who was used to being out on the road rather than at home, he quickly found the small wash basin and used to rinse his face and then strapped the ornate long sword to his hips before once more shouldering the larger sword and securing it to his back. He tossed a few coins on the counter of his room for whoever was tasked with cleaning up the rooms and then made his way out into the city even as it was just waking. He had a set of decent enough clothes stowed back on kaiser but if he was going to see merchants, artisans, and eventually the court it occurred to him that he might need a bit more.

So first he headed outside the city and back to his home in those early morning hours and retrieved a tightly wrapped parcel from his dresser. He had not worn it since he had attended the funerals of his father and the king but it was the sort of finery expected of a proper Knight. He then retrieved a small lock box from his desk and opened it, inside lay a signet ring, a pendant with his family crest, and a bound volume whose pages held proof of his lineage... marks of a noble birth. He sighed a bit and shook his head, it was something he was not particularly proud or fond of to be honest. Somewhere down the family lineage the knights of his line had been wed to various daughters or sons of noble birth, never any heirs to the throne mind you but nobility just the same. He was glad though that his mother had been a simple attendant to the queen and his father a knight... he had grown up here outside the city and though he visited the royal courts had never been forced into being a part of them.

He secured the lock box and the parcel holding his court finery. He made his way back to the city with a practiced stride. He noticed the merchants were setting up for the day and he purchased some sweet bread for his breakfast as well as a few packages of local blends of tea to take with him. He made his way back to the ship even before the merchants had brought their wears to be shipped. He was not sure what they wanted him to do, especially as his skills lay mainly in swordplay and the occasional need for diplomacy if he was on familiar terms with those he was dealing with.

In the end he simply checked on Kaiser and stowed his things there before sealing up the impressive Guymelef once more. He then double checked to make sure the large beige traveling cloak still hid the true nature of his Guymelef and that the crimson cloak affixed to its shoulders was neatly hidden beneath the traveling garb. When he was satisfied with that he made his way up to the deck where he saw everyone busying themselves starting the days work. He found a quite and secluded corner of the deck behind the captains cabin and sat down with his long sword in his lap and the great sword he carried laying in front of him and closed his eyes. It was an old practice and most swordsman never bothered with it anymore but max found that centering himself and clearing his mind every so often was rather helpful.

By the time the others were into the full swing of the things and Bridget was looking out over the deck he was making his way out towards the front of the ship. There he began to go through sword forms his motions were smooth and practiced. He started slowly and elegantly at first and when he finished with the long sword he began the same exercise with the great sword. He took a short meal break to find some food in the galley and then returned to the deck for further practice. By the time afternoon rolled around and the day was warming up he felt a bit warm and so carefully removed his jacket and shirt folding them neatly and then began to go through his forms though this time with a bit more speed and force. By the time he took up the great sword again there was a light sheen of sweat to his muscled form. By this point Max had switched back to the long sword once more and it sliced through air with the sound of rushing wind. The glint of the afternoon light on his sword seemed the perfect match to the way the light reflected off that light sheen of sweat on his tanned skin. He was oblivious to any who might have looked his way as he performed this dangerous dance that set his powerfully corded muscled rippling with practiced motions that came as easily to him as his next breath.