[ LOG ] - Kika, Lazlo, Shoon, Elza - Trackdown
Who: Lazlo, Hervey, Elza, Kika, Shoon
Where: Vinay del Zexay
What: Hervey goes to seek out his Captain at Vinay, dragging along a few companions who have business of their own to conduct.
When: After Hervey's post and before Shoon's post. D:
Lazlo: *totally looking around and gaping like a tourist as they walk through the city streets* ...this is like Middleport...only bigger. Much bigger. Wow...
Hervey: *can't help but roll his eyes a little, glancing around every now and then for a possible lucky glimpse of his Captain* ... Kid, you're lookin' like a country bumpkin...!
Elza: *takes a deep breath, inhaling the air as she quietly keeps an eye on the party from the rear*
Lazlo: Ahaha...sorry. *headscratch* This is my first time getting to explore, I didn't realize this Vinay del Zexay was so big.
Hervey: Well, it's one of the biggest ports 'round here... or something. *shrugs a little, not really having a clue as he turns his head to look over at Elza, maybe a little nervous* Too bad we ain't seeing any lizards on legs...
Elza: Hm. Knowing your luck, they'll attack us once we leave here. *spots the item shop and nods to Hervey momentarily* I'll catch up. *ducks inside*
Lazlo: *pauses on the street* So, you think Kika came here, Hervey?
Hervey: K-knowing my luck!? What's that supposed to mean!? *looks like he's going to go on a rant before Lazlo interrupts, and he looks back at the kid* -- huh? ... Yeah. She said she was somewhere obvious that she shouldn't be...
Lazlo: *looking around again* Well, this IS a port...so I guess it counts as obvious. Hm, I wonder if I should stock up on anything while we're here...
Hervey: *looks a little impatient, but concedes since Elza's already wandered off anyway* ... You need anything?
Lazlo: I don't think so...I mean, I only have one set of warmer clothes, but I shouldn't need them much longer.
Hervey: Barely even needed warm clothes with that damn second sun... *grumbles a little at the thought of it as he crosses his arms* ... Damn, where is she??
Lazlo: ...um. Hervey, is this the port where you guys docked the Grishend for the winter?
Hervey: ...? Yeah, yeah it is. Why're you asking?
Lazlo: *blinkblink* ...do you think she'd have come to hide out on her ship?
Hervey: ........ *stunned silence for a sec*
Hervey: ... N-no way! ... That'd be too obvious, right!?
Lazlo: Maybe. But it wouldn't hurt to check there, since we're in the area?
Hervey: ... *starting to feel a little stupid about this, wondering why he didn't think of this before* ... Dammit, come on, Lazlo, let's go. *actually goes to grab his arm, looking a little agitated*
Lazlo: *eeps* H-hey, Hervey! Shouldn't we wait for Elza?
Hervey: -- augh! *stops in his tracks and spins around, almost getting too carried away* Damn, what's she buying...?
Lazlo: I don't know, but...just give her another moment? *looking back at the item shop*
Elza: *comes out of the item shop and looks up* ...what?
Hervey: -- there you are! You coming?
Elza: *pauses* You look like you're about to find trouble. I'm coming.
Lazlo: *grinning* Oh, Hervey always looks like that.
Elza: *looks at the kid with the headband, then at the pirate with the ascot, and wonders to herself exactly what it is she's gotten herself into* That's true.
Hervey: Trouble finds me, thanks. *doesn't look too bothered about it though, letting go of Lazlo as he walks ahead to head towards the Grishend*
Lazlo: *cheerily following Hervey* I sort of wanted to see the Grishend anyway, so...if she's there, then that's two things accomplished at once.
Elza: *sees the boat in the distance and is impressed by it* I guess it would be nice to see a boat other than the one I live on. *goes with*
Lazlo: Oh, you're rooming on the beached ship? I thought about it...but I just took a room in the inn for now.
Hervey: You live on the boat back at Budehuc, eh? ... That thing's got nothing on this beauty! *boasting, just a little, as he also admires the Grishend from a distance, a stupid grin already forming on his face*
Elza: It's nice. I live right across from the baths, although with so many people...the baths have gotten...popular.
Lazlo: Yeah, I noticed. *beaming* Oh...wow, it really is the Grishend! *seeing her docked among a number of tall ships*
Hervey: ... You thought it was a fake or something? *says it kind of dryly, but there's this fierce grin of pride now as he looks much more in his element again* ... C'mon, let's take a peek around.
Lazlo: N-no, I just haven't seen it in a while. It's so odd to see it here, of all places. *eagerly following*
Kika: *Just stepped out onto the deck for some fresh air, and notices them on the dock* It's about time you showed up. I was really beginning to think Budehuc got wiped out after all.
Hervey: *running his fingers along the smooth wood of the railings as he walks, half of him expects not to find Lady Kika until...* -- Captain!
Lazlo: *waves* Kika!
Elza: *had seen this woman around the castle in the short time she had been back but didn't know her by name...as such, just nods to the greeting*
Kika: Come aboard. You can catch me up.
Hervey: *kind of just stands there stupidly, as if uncertain about what to do until she gives him the okay* ... R-right. Yeah. *hesitantly takes the first few steps*
Lazlo: *nudges Hervey to hurry up, since he can't pass by on the gangplank* It's good to see you, Kika.
Hervey: O-ow! *yelps a little under his breath and he picks up his pace, though he still looks slightly dazed*
Elza: *quietly and carefully follows everyone up the gangplank*
Kika: *Grinning* You too, Lazlo. I wasn't expecting such a crowd. Quite the pleasant surprise.
Hervey: They thought I was up to a bit of trouble. *wry grin when he sees her expression*
Lazlo: Haha...well, I wanted to stretch my legs, and I was a little worried too...though not as much as Hervey was. *nodding to her*
Elza: *shrugging* I had to come here, anyway - an extra set of eyes wouldn't have hurt him.
Hervey: *bristles a little, almost seeming embarrassed* I wasn't worried! ... I mean, I knew the Captain would be okay, but -- I just -- gah!
Elza: *shakes her head, a slight smile at Hervey's backpedaling*
Kika: *Chuckles at Hervey, then looks to Elza* I don't believe we've met.
Lazlo: *beams unconcernedly*
Hervey: *just looks really flustered right now, and decides to shut his mouth for a few seconds to recompose himself*
Elza: Elza. Formerly of Harmonia's Howling Voice Guild. Good to meet you...?
Kika: *Nods in reply* Kika. It's a pleasure.
Lazlo: Have you been safe, Kika? Everything is all right?
Hervey: *seeing as Lazlo is asking, he decides to join in, too* Y-yeah. Those damn crazy-ass knights were after you...!
Kika: I've been well enough...Come. We can go to my quarters. It's a bit more private there...away from any prying ears.
Hervey: R-right. *... can't help but look around when she says that, possibly seeming a little agitated at the idea of eavesdroppers* Let's go. *maybe a bit too enthusiastic, he leads the way*
Lazlo: *following, even if he remembers where they are. It's only polite to let Hervey and the captain go first*
Elza: *as always, brings up the rear, looking around her to see if she sees anyone suspicious keeping track of their movements*
Kika: Well...For lack of a more specific question...What happened?
Hervey: ... With the way the Queen went down, or...? *he shakes his head* 'cause I mean, I don't have a damn clue! She went completely outta' control...
Lazlo: From what I heard...she was going to destroy the castle. But a bunch of people jumped in to stop her.
Kika: ...I see.
Hervey: *pauses, as if unsure if he really wants to know* When did you... try to poison her?
Elza: *just listens - for most of this story, she was still in the infirmary and had no knowledge of much of this*
Kika: Ah Yes...Exactly two weeks ago...mid-morning.
Lazlo: So... *looking at Hervey and thinking* ...that must have been right when she went berzerk...and the knights were shouting about it.
Hervey: *looking back at Lazlo, having no tmuch of an idea* ... So she bailed right in time, huh...?
Lazlo: Kika...did you really try to...kill the Queen?
Kika: ....No. That was by no means my intention.
Lazlo: *breathes a sigh of relief*
Hervey: Then... what were you trying to do!?
Kika: Just knock her out...so we the Rune could be extracted. It was a good enough plan, it just didn't work quite as we expected.
Hervey: *looks a little more relieved at that, but part of him is disheartened, as well* ... We?
Lazlo: Wow. Yeah, I guess so...
Kika: Yes, there was a group of people involved...
Lazlo: ...is that why Sigurd warned me to stay armed? Even if I didn't come anywhere near the actual fight.
Hervey: *may or may not be getting a little miffed here* ... Who?! Sigurd was involved??
Kika: ...No. He wasn't involved...Best I can figure he was told by Geddoe.
Lazlo: Oh. That figures. But...how did they get you involved, Kika? I wouldn't have expected it...
Hervey: What the... Captain, you told Geddoe, but not...!? *can't even finish that sentence, trying to keep his cool here*
Kika: ...Calm down Hervey. Geddoe was involved in the group that helped plan the...intervention. I simply offered myself up, because I knew I could get close to the Queen.
Lazlo: Really? *sort of in awe, at that*
Hervey: ... You could've gotten hurt! *too busy being worried to be in awe* Dammit, my job is to protect you!
Elza: *quietly admires Kika's bravery - in the histories she had read, the Sun Rune was nothing to mess with and she could have gotten herself killed had she not been as careful as she was*
Kika: Hervey. *Suddenly Stern* I wasn't aware your job description was so concrete.
Hervey: --tch! *that's a bit like a slap to the face, and despite him wanting to argue back, he just shuts up again, clenching his teeth as he looks away*
Kika: ....I appreciate you worrying...but I can take care of myself.
Lazlo: *not interfering in this, looking at the ceiling*
Hervey: I've been sitting around this damn castle doing nothing for months, and the one time I can actually watch your back, I'm not needed... *mumbles it a little, seeming pretty bitter*
Elza: *feeling the notion that this convo would be perfectly okay without her standing there* Um...if you all will excuse me...? *nods politely to everyone and goes outside to wait on her travelling companions*
Kika: *Honestly feels really bad about this...and it shows a little. She sighs* Can we talk about this later?
Lazlo: *watches Elza go but for some reason doesn't even think about following*
Hervey: ... Right, sorry. *stubborn apology, and he looks at Lazlo as if expecting him to say something*
Lazlo: *confused look back* ...ah...so...it's all right for you to return, Kika. I mean...the knights aren't yelling for your blood and I think they're all still in in the infirmary anyway.
(
Kika: Are you quite sure? ...And the Queen?
Lazlo: Uh... *looking at Hervey* I haven't really heard from her...they really did a number on her, though. They sealed the Rune away.
Hervey: *that seems to jog his memory a little, and relenting on his stubborn behaviour, he pulls a letter out, still looking at Lazlo as he holds it out to Kika* The Queen had a letter for you.
Kika: Hmm? *Starts to open it*
Lazlo: *totally didn't know about that, kind of boggled and impressed again*
Hervey: She said it was only for you to read, so... *shrugs a little* Maybe it's an apology. *his voice is a little sarcastic*
Kika: *Scans the letter quickly, and nods* I see...Well I suppose we can return whenever you're ready. I'd bring the ship back, but I'm not sure I trust that river to be navigable quite yet.
Hervey: ... If you need my help with getting the Grishend back out there, I'm all yours, Captain. *seems a little reluctant, though*
Lazlo: Oh. *sags a little* And here I was kind of hoping to sail again.
: Well... You'd know better than I what the conditions are like. How's the ice further north? *Question directed at Hervey, as if to let him know he's still important*
Hervey: Practically gone, after the fiasco with the second sun. Helps that spring's really setting in. *keeps it simple as he shrugs a little*
Kika: Practically? Do you think we could take her home, or not?
Lazlo: I think so? I didn't ask the other captains what their plans were, but I know Admiral Egan was chafing to come for his ship.
Hervey: ... Yeah. We can take the Grishend home, Captain.
Kika: It's settled then. We can make way when everyone is ready.
Hervey: *nods just a fraction* I'll have to go get Shoon and Elza.
Kika: *Looks to Lazlo* Perhaps you can get them... *looks back to Hervey* I'd like to have a word..
Lazlo: Ah...sure, I can. Shoon was lagging behind, I'll make sure he's onboard.
Shoon: *is busy looking for Hervey and the others now that he's completed his business in Vinay*
Hervey: *looks a little hesitant at this point, wanting more than anything to get out of there... so when Lazlo gets the job, it doesn't do much to help his attitude* Alright...
Lazlo: *ducks outside and goes down the gangplank of the Grishend, looking around the port*
Kika: Hervey...
Hervey: *tries to interrupt her, feeling a little bit like a kid after all this* ... Look, I'm glad you're alright, Captain.
Shoon: *looking around the docks,* Man, I probably shouldn't have gotten distracted by that tattoo parlor...but, hey, I got an awesome new tat.
Kika: *Interrupts him back, looking rather interested in the floor all of a sudden* ...I'm sorry.
Lazlo: *spotting the gladiator, since he looks so different from everyone else, and waves* Shoon! Shoon, over here.
Shoon: *sees Lazlo and heads over to him* Hey, did you guys find her?
Hervey: *that makes him look startled, but the expression quickly changes to uncomfortable as a fidgetty hand begins running through his hair* ... You don't have to be. You did what you had to do. Apologizing to your underling's the last thing you should be doing.
Lazlo: Yeah, she's onboard her ship. *gestures over his shoulder at the pirate craft behind him* This is the Grishend. I think we're going to take a fast way back and sail home.
Shoon: I see. *cocks his head at it* Well, that makes what I just did all the more apporiate then. *starts heading towards the boat*
Lazlo: Where did you run off to? You had some kind of mission right when we got here...
Shoon: I saw a tattoo parlor, and decided I wanted a third one. Besides, I only came along to kill monsters. And I did that on the way here.
Kika: Perhaps... *More soft spoken than she usually is* But I still like to think of you more as a friend. If I felt I had time before leaving, I would have told you.... I didn't want to involve you in the plan. I knew full well it was dangerous.
Hervey: *that makes him grow a little agitated again* Captain, I'm not -- dammit, I'm not some little kid like Nalleo you gotta' go around protecting. It's because it was dangerous that you should have told me! *frowning a little at her, which is uncharacteristic*
Kika: *Getting a little frustrated* That's not what I meant.
Lazlo: ...a tattoo...I see. Well...um, good? I guess we're going to stay on board for now, until the ship is ready to leave. Uh...Kika and Hervey are talking, we should probably stay on deck.
Hervey: Then what the heck did you mean!?
Shoon: OK. Whatever. *sits on the deck, a good fifteen feet away from the railing*
Lazlo: *putters around the ship making sure it's in sailing-shape, checking ropes, etc*
Kika: *Raising her voice quite suddenly* I didn't want you to get hurt!
Kika: .... *Looks away suddenly, looking just as out of sorts as she feels*
Shoon: *looks over at Lazlo* You need any help? I know exactly zip about boats, but I can, I dunno, pull something.
Hervey: *that catches him by surprise again, but his anger is enough to keep him being unreasonable rather than quieting down now* ... And what happens if I don't want you to get hurt? What then!? Dammit, I know you're my Captain, but why do you have to be so damn selfish!?
Lazlo: Uhh...not yet, but if I need any assistance with the lines, I'll call for you. It's definitely not a one-man job.
Shoon: Kay. *begins to meditate*
Kika: *Looks back at him, obviously quite upset* I think I've earned the right to be selfish for once in my life!
Hervey: *forces a humourless laugh, shaking his head* Well, be selfish about something worth being selfish about! Don't try to be some stupid -- martyr -- while I sit around on my ass worrying! It's not meant to work that way! I'm the one who's gonna' die for you!
Kika: *Shaking with anger, and perhaps fear* No one is ever going to die for me again! I think not wanting to be left behind again is a pretty damn good reason to be selfish!
Shoon: *sighs and goes to stand near Lazlo* They're pretty loud, aren't they?
Hervey: *grits his teeth, sensing a defeat here, and so he's going for a different approach now* ... No one has to die if you just ask for help! What the hell am I even around for if not to back you up!? I'm not some -- some guy who's just meant to sit there looking all pretty!
Kika: I know that! I told you I'm s- *lowers her voice a bit* sorry...
Lazlo: *polite cough* We really shouldn't be listening. A captain's confidence is important to the crew.
Shoon: *rolls eyes* is it really listening when can hear it through the walls? Not that you actually make out much.
Lazlo: Well, we could walk down by the bowsprit. And, uh...check the rigging. Yeah.
Shoon: Check the what now?
Hervey: ... *stands there and takes a deep breath so that he doesn't suddenly engage in another shouting match* ... Look, forget it. ... Let's just forget this ever happened. I'm glad you're okay, alright? ... Let's go back. *clenching his fists a little, he turns around to start heading out to fetch Lazlo and Shoon*
Lazlo: The rigging. *points to the lattices of rope that bind all the sails and masts*
Shoon: *stares at it* So how do you check it?
Lazlo: Oh, just look it over to make sure the ropes aren't fraying anywhere.
Lazlo: You can even climb up it, to the top of the mast.
Shoon: Ummm.... OK, I'll try.
Lazlo: Be careful, Shoon. *though climbing the rigging is old hat for most sailors*
Kika: *Grabs his wrist to stop him, though again doesn't look him in the eye, still quite upset* I mean it, I.... I want you to forgive me.
Shoon: *staying on the deck for the most part, leaves the rest for Lazlo, 'cause he does not want to fall into the water*
Lazlo: *grabs the latticed ropes and climbs steadily partway up the center mast, mainly to check the sails for holes and such*
Hervey: *a part of him doesn't really want to move, but the irrational part pulls his wrist back as he looks at her, still looking frustrated, though there's a hint of regret in his expression now* ... There's nothing to forgive, Captain. *and then, without pausing* Let's go, we're keeping Lazlo and the kid waiting.
Shoon: *to Lazlo* I've decided. I'm not climbing up this thing.
Lazlo: That's all right... *mostly focusing on not falling, here*
Kika: ...Right....I'll be up in a minute. Get ready to make way.
Hervey: *looks partly relieved that the issue has been avoided for now... though he doesn't look too happy as he climbs back up on deck, eyes searching for Shoon, Lazlo and Elza* ... Alright, kids, we're going now.
Shoon: Yo.
Lazlo: *clinging like a spider to the main mast rigging* Ah...really? Hang on!
Hervey: *looks a little surprised to see Shoon* ... Where the hell have you been? *absently looking up at Lazlo*
Lazlo: *carefully climbing hand-over-hand back down to the deck*
Shoon: I got a tattoo. Finding Kika was your thing. I just came along to beat monsters up.
Hervey: ... A tattoo? *glances back at Shoon once he's satisfied Lazlo won't fall on his face or anything* Where? Show me.
Kika: *Sits down, covering her face in her hands, trying to compose herself* Damnit...
Lazlo: *dropping down onto the deck with a firm thud and brushing off his hands* Ah...Hervey...
Shoon: *pulls up his shirt and his down his pants a little to show the blue star he has where leg an hip meet*
Hervey: *raises an eyebrow at the tattoo, about to make some remark about it... but he just shrugs and nods* Not too bad... Yeah, Lazlo?
Shoon: I figured for my third it should be something more... I dunno. Intimate, I think.
Hervey: Something to show off to the ladies or... whoever, eh? *a bit of his old grin returning*
Lazlo: *sort of ignores the tattoo-showing for the moment* Uh...is everything all right?
Shoon: *flushes* What was that?
Hervey: ... Everything's fine. Everything'll be fine. *says it as if it repeating it will make it true* ... Let's just go, alright? We've got a lot t'do with only the few of us here.
Shoon: *adjusting his clothes back into place while glaring at Hervey* I am not going near the rail, and I am not climbing anything.
Lazlo: *nodding* Okay. I'm ready to help with anything, just give the order. It's my turn to call Kika captain.
Hervey: ... Going to sit in a corner hugging yourself, then? *says that to Shoon, maybe a little amused, but he looks serious again when he nods back at Lazlo* ... Yeah, you know what to do.
Shoon: Fine, maybe I will.
Hervey: ... Wuss.
Lazlo: Aye, aye! *goes to unfurl all the sails and prepare to raise anchor when the order is given, looking totally at home on the ship*
Shoon: Hey, I know squat about boats, and I can't swim all that good.
Hervey: ... Just do what the other kid tells you. *kind of watches Lazlo belatedly, half-wondering what the heck he's doing here... and then he sighs, pushing himself to move* Alrighty, I'm gonna' find Elza and just make sure she's with us before we take off. Don't fall overboard~
Lazlo: Shoon! You can help me raise the anchor, when the captain gives the order. I'll need your arm strength.
Shoon: *sticks his tongue out at Hervey and goes to help Lazlo, staying as far away from the rail as possible and still be helpful*
Where: Vinay del Zexay
What: Hervey goes to seek out his Captain at Vinay, dragging along a few companions who have business of their own to conduct.
When: After Hervey's post and before Shoon's post. D:
Lazlo: *totally looking around and gaping like a tourist as they walk through the city streets* ...this is like Middleport...only bigger. Much bigger. Wow...
Hervey: *can't help but roll his eyes a little, glancing around every now and then for a possible lucky glimpse of his Captain* ... Kid, you're lookin' like a country bumpkin...!
Elza: *takes a deep breath, inhaling the air as she quietly keeps an eye on the party from the rear*
Lazlo: Ahaha...sorry. *headscratch* This is my first time getting to explore, I didn't realize this Vinay del Zexay was so big.
Hervey: Well, it's one of the biggest ports 'round here... or something. *shrugs a little, not really having a clue as he turns his head to look over at Elza, maybe a little nervous* Too bad we ain't seeing any lizards on legs...
Elza: Hm. Knowing your luck, they'll attack us once we leave here. *spots the item shop and nods to Hervey momentarily* I'll catch up. *ducks inside*
Lazlo: *pauses on the street* So, you think Kika came here, Hervey?
Hervey: K-knowing my luck!? What's that supposed to mean!? *looks like he's going to go on a rant before Lazlo interrupts, and he looks back at the kid* -- huh? ... Yeah. She said she was somewhere obvious that she shouldn't be...
Lazlo: *looking around again* Well, this IS a port...so I guess it counts as obvious. Hm, I wonder if I should stock up on anything while we're here...
Hervey: *looks a little impatient, but concedes since Elza's already wandered off anyway* ... You need anything?
Lazlo: I don't think so...I mean, I only have one set of warmer clothes, but I shouldn't need them much longer.
Hervey: Barely even needed warm clothes with that damn second sun... *grumbles a little at the thought of it as he crosses his arms* ... Damn, where is she??
Lazlo: ...um. Hervey, is this the port where you guys docked the Grishend for the winter?
Hervey: ...? Yeah, yeah it is. Why're you asking?
Lazlo: *blinkblink* ...do you think she'd have come to hide out on her ship?
Hervey: ........ *stunned silence for a sec*
Hervey: ... N-no way! ... That'd be too obvious, right!?
Lazlo: Maybe. But it wouldn't hurt to check there, since we're in the area?
Hervey: ... *starting to feel a little stupid about this, wondering why he didn't think of this before* ... Dammit, come on, Lazlo, let's go. *actually goes to grab his arm, looking a little agitated*
Lazlo: *eeps* H-hey, Hervey! Shouldn't we wait for Elza?
Hervey: -- augh! *stops in his tracks and spins around, almost getting too carried away* Damn, what's she buying...?
Lazlo: I don't know, but...just give her another moment? *looking back at the item shop*
Elza: *comes out of the item shop and looks up* ...what?
Hervey: -- there you are! You coming?
Elza: *pauses* You look like you're about to find trouble. I'm coming.
Lazlo: *grinning* Oh, Hervey always looks like that.
Elza: *looks at the kid with the headband, then at the pirate with the ascot, and wonders to herself exactly what it is she's gotten herself into* That's true.
Hervey: Trouble finds me, thanks. *doesn't look too bothered about it though, letting go of Lazlo as he walks ahead to head towards the Grishend*
Lazlo: *cheerily following Hervey* I sort of wanted to see the Grishend anyway, so...if she's there, then that's two things accomplished at once.
Elza: *sees the boat in the distance and is impressed by it* I guess it would be nice to see a boat other than the one I live on. *goes with*
Lazlo: Oh, you're rooming on the beached ship? I thought about it...but I just took a room in the inn for now.
Hervey: You live on the boat back at Budehuc, eh? ... That thing's got nothing on this beauty! *boasting, just a little, as he also admires the Grishend from a distance, a stupid grin already forming on his face*
Elza: It's nice. I live right across from the baths, although with so many people...the baths have gotten...popular.
Lazlo: Yeah, I noticed. *beaming* Oh...wow, it really is the Grishend! *seeing her docked among a number of tall ships*
Hervey: ... You thought it was a fake or something? *says it kind of dryly, but there's this fierce grin of pride now as he looks much more in his element again* ... C'mon, let's take a peek around.
Lazlo: N-no, I just haven't seen it in a while. It's so odd to see it here, of all places. *eagerly following*
Kika: *Just stepped out onto the deck for some fresh air, and notices them on the dock* It's about time you showed up. I was really beginning to think Budehuc got wiped out after all.
Hervey: *running his fingers along the smooth wood of the railings as he walks, half of him expects not to find Lady Kika until...* -- Captain!
Lazlo: *waves* Kika!
Elza: *had seen this woman around the castle in the short time she had been back but didn't know her by name...as such, just nods to the greeting*
Kika: Come aboard. You can catch me up.
Hervey: *kind of just stands there stupidly, as if uncertain about what to do until she gives him the okay* ... R-right. Yeah. *hesitantly takes the first few steps*
Lazlo: *nudges Hervey to hurry up, since he can't pass by on the gangplank* It's good to see you, Kika.
Hervey: O-ow! *yelps a little under his breath and he picks up his pace, though he still looks slightly dazed*
Elza: *quietly and carefully follows everyone up the gangplank*
Kika: *Grinning* You too, Lazlo. I wasn't expecting such a crowd. Quite the pleasant surprise.
Hervey: They thought I was up to a bit of trouble. *wry grin when he sees her expression*
Lazlo: Haha...well, I wanted to stretch my legs, and I was a little worried too...though not as much as Hervey was. *nodding to her*
Elza: *shrugging* I had to come here, anyway - an extra set of eyes wouldn't have hurt him.
Hervey: *bristles a little, almost seeming embarrassed* I wasn't worried! ... I mean, I knew the Captain would be okay, but -- I just -- gah!
Elza: *shakes her head, a slight smile at Hervey's backpedaling*
Kika: *Chuckles at Hervey, then looks to Elza* I don't believe we've met.
Lazlo: *beams unconcernedly*
Hervey: *just looks really flustered right now, and decides to shut his mouth for a few seconds to recompose himself*
Elza: Elza. Formerly of Harmonia's Howling Voice Guild. Good to meet you...?
Kika: *Nods in reply* Kika. It's a pleasure.
Lazlo: Have you been safe, Kika? Everything is all right?
Hervey: *seeing as Lazlo is asking, he decides to join in, too* Y-yeah. Those damn crazy-ass knights were after you...!
Kika: I've been well enough...Come. We can go to my quarters. It's a bit more private there...away from any prying ears.
Hervey: R-right. *... can't help but look around when she says that, possibly seeming a little agitated at the idea of eavesdroppers* Let's go. *maybe a bit too enthusiastic, he leads the way*
Lazlo: *following, even if he remembers where they are. It's only polite to let Hervey and the captain go first*
Elza: *as always, brings up the rear, looking around her to see if she sees anyone suspicious keeping track of their movements*
Kika: Well...For lack of a more specific question...What happened?
Hervey: ... With the way the Queen went down, or...? *he shakes his head* 'cause I mean, I don't have a damn clue! She went completely outta' control...
Lazlo: From what I heard...she was going to destroy the castle. But a bunch of people jumped in to stop her.
Kika: ...I see.
Hervey: *pauses, as if unsure if he really wants to know* When did you... try to poison her?
Elza: *just listens - for most of this story, she was still in the infirmary and had no knowledge of much of this*
Kika: Ah Yes...Exactly two weeks ago...mid-morning.
Lazlo: So... *looking at Hervey and thinking* ...that must have been right when she went berzerk...and the knights were shouting about it.
Hervey: *looking back at Lazlo, having no tmuch of an idea* ... So she bailed right in time, huh...?
Lazlo: Kika...did you really try to...kill the Queen?
Kika: ....No. That was by no means my intention.
Lazlo: *breathes a sigh of relief*
Hervey: Then... what were you trying to do!?
Kika: Just knock her out...so we the Rune could be extracted. It was a good enough plan, it just didn't work quite as we expected.
Hervey: *looks a little more relieved at that, but part of him is disheartened, as well* ... We?
Lazlo: Wow. Yeah, I guess so...
Kika: Yes, there was a group of people involved...
Lazlo: ...is that why Sigurd warned me to stay armed? Even if I didn't come anywhere near the actual fight.
Hervey: *may or may not be getting a little miffed here* ... Who?! Sigurd was involved??
Kika: ...No. He wasn't involved...Best I can figure he was told by Geddoe.
Lazlo: Oh. That figures. But...how did they get you involved, Kika? I wouldn't have expected it...
Hervey: What the... Captain, you told Geddoe, but not...!? *can't even finish that sentence, trying to keep his cool here*
Kika: ...Calm down Hervey. Geddoe was involved in the group that helped plan the...intervention. I simply offered myself up, because I knew I could get close to the Queen.
Lazlo: Really? *sort of in awe, at that*
Hervey: ... You could've gotten hurt! *too busy being worried to be in awe* Dammit, my job is to protect you!
Elza: *quietly admires Kika's bravery - in the histories she had read, the Sun Rune was nothing to mess with and she could have gotten herself killed had she not been as careful as she was*
Kika: Hervey. *Suddenly Stern* I wasn't aware your job description was so concrete.
Hervey: --tch! *that's a bit like a slap to the face, and despite him wanting to argue back, he just shuts up again, clenching his teeth as he looks away*
Kika: ....I appreciate you worrying...but I can take care of myself.
Lazlo: *not interfering in this, looking at the ceiling*
Hervey: I've been sitting around this damn castle doing nothing for months, and the one time I can actually watch your back, I'm not needed... *mumbles it a little, seeming pretty bitter*
Elza: *feeling the notion that this convo would be perfectly okay without her standing there* Um...if you all will excuse me...? *nods politely to everyone and goes outside to wait on her travelling companions*
Kika: *Honestly feels really bad about this...and it shows a little. She sighs* Can we talk about this later?
Lazlo: *watches Elza go but for some reason doesn't even think about following*
Hervey: ... Right, sorry. *stubborn apology, and he looks at Lazlo as if expecting him to say something*
Lazlo: *confused look back* ...ah...so...it's all right for you to return, Kika. I mean...the knights aren't yelling for your blood and I think they're all still in in the infirmary anyway.
(
Kika: Are you quite sure? ...And the Queen?
Lazlo: Uh... *looking at Hervey* I haven't really heard from her...they really did a number on her, though. They sealed the Rune away.
Hervey: *that seems to jog his memory a little, and relenting on his stubborn behaviour, he pulls a letter out, still looking at Lazlo as he holds it out to Kika* The Queen had a letter for you.
Kika: Hmm? *Starts to open it*
Lazlo: *totally didn't know about that, kind of boggled and impressed again*
Hervey: She said it was only for you to read, so... *shrugs a little* Maybe it's an apology. *his voice is a little sarcastic*
Kika: *Scans the letter quickly, and nods* I see...Well I suppose we can return whenever you're ready. I'd bring the ship back, but I'm not sure I trust that river to be navigable quite yet.
Hervey: ... If you need my help with getting the Grishend back out there, I'm all yours, Captain. *seems a little reluctant, though*
Lazlo: Oh. *sags a little* And here I was kind of hoping to sail again.
: Well... You'd know better than I what the conditions are like. How's the ice further north? *Question directed at Hervey, as if to let him know he's still important*
Hervey: Practically gone, after the fiasco with the second sun. Helps that spring's really setting in. *keeps it simple as he shrugs a little*
Kika: Practically? Do you think we could take her home, or not?
Lazlo: I think so? I didn't ask the other captains what their plans were, but I know Admiral Egan was chafing to come for his ship.
Hervey: ... Yeah. We can take the Grishend home, Captain.
Kika: It's settled then. We can make way when everyone is ready.
Hervey: *nods just a fraction* I'll have to go get Shoon and Elza.
Kika: *Looks to Lazlo* Perhaps you can get them... *looks back to Hervey* I'd like to have a word..
Lazlo: Ah...sure, I can. Shoon was lagging behind, I'll make sure he's onboard.
Shoon: *is busy looking for Hervey and the others now that he's completed his business in Vinay*
Hervey: *looks a little hesitant at this point, wanting more than anything to get out of there... so when Lazlo gets the job, it doesn't do much to help his attitude* Alright...
Lazlo: *ducks outside and goes down the gangplank of the Grishend, looking around the port*
Kika: Hervey...
Hervey: *tries to interrupt her, feeling a little bit like a kid after all this* ... Look, I'm glad you're alright, Captain.
Shoon: *looking around the docks,* Man, I probably shouldn't have gotten distracted by that tattoo parlor...but, hey, I got an awesome new tat.
Kika: *Interrupts him back, looking rather interested in the floor all of a sudden* ...I'm sorry.
Lazlo: *spotting the gladiator, since he looks so different from everyone else, and waves* Shoon! Shoon, over here.
Shoon: *sees Lazlo and heads over to him* Hey, did you guys find her?
Hervey: *that makes him look startled, but the expression quickly changes to uncomfortable as a fidgetty hand begins running through his hair* ... You don't have to be. You did what you had to do. Apologizing to your underling's the last thing you should be doing.
Lazlo: Yeah, she's onboard her ship. *gestures over his shoulder at the pirate craft behind him* This is the Grishend. I think we're going to take a fast way back and sail home.
Shoon: I see. *cocks his head at it* Well, that makes what I just did all the more apporiate then. *starts heading towards the boat*
Lazlo: Where did you run off to? You had some kind of mission right when we got here...
Shoon: I saw a tattoo parlor, and decided I wanted a third one. Besides, I only came along to kill monsters. And I did that on the way here.
Kika: Perhaps... *More soft spoken than she usually is* But I still like to think of you more as a friend. If I felt I had time before leaving, I would have told you.... I didn't want to involve you in the plan. I knew full well it was dangerous.
Hervey: *that makes him grow a little agitated again* Captain, I'm not -- dammit, I'm not some little kid like Nalleo you gotta' go around protecting. It's because it was dangerous that you should have told me! *frowning a little at her, which is uncharacteristic*
Kika: *Getting a little frustrated* That's not what I meant.
Lazlo: ...a tattoo...I see. Well...um, good? I guess we're going to stay on board for now, until the ship is ready to leave. Uh...Kika and Hervey are talking, we should probably stay on deck.
Hervey: Then what the heck did you mean!?
Shoon: OK. Whatever. *sits on the deck, a good fifteen feet away from the railing*
Lazlo: *putters around the ship making sure it's in sailing-shape, checking ropes, etc*
Kika: *Raising her voice quite suddenly* I didn't want you to get hurt!
Kika: .... *Looks away suddenly, looking just as out of sorts as she feels*
Shoon: *looks over at Lazlo* You need any help? I know exactly zip about boats, but I can, I dunno, pull something.
Hervey: *that catches him by surprise again, but his anger is enough to keep him being unreasonable rather than quieting down now* ... And what happens if I don't want you to get hurt? What then!? Dammit, I know you're my Captain, but why do you have to be so damn selfish!?
Lazlo: Uhh...not yet, but if I need any assistance with the lines, I'll call for you. It's definitely not a one-man job.
Shoon: Kay. *begins to meditate*
Kika: *Looks back at him, obviously quite upset* I think I've earned the right to be selfish for once in my life!
Hervey: *forces a humourless laugh, shaking his head* Well, be selfish about something worth being selfish about! Don't try to be some stupid -- martyr -- while I sit around on my ass worrying! It's not meant to work that way! I'm the one who's gonna' die for you!
Kika: *Shaking with anger, and perhaps fear* No one is ever going to die for me again! I think not wanting to be left behind again is a pretty damn good reason to be selfish!
Shoon: *sighs and goes to stand near Lazlo* They're pretty loud, aren't they?
Hervey: *grits his teeth, sensing a defeat here, and so he's going for a different approach now* ... No one has to die if you just ask for help! What the hell am I even around for if not to back you up!? I'm not some -- some guy who's just meant to sit there looking all pretty!
Kika: I know that! I told you I'm s- *lowers her voice a bit* sorry...
Lazlo: *polite cough* We really shouldn't be listening. A captain's confidence is important to the crew.
Shoon: *rolls eyes* is it really listening when can hear it through the walls? Not that you actually make out much.
Lazlo: Well, we could walk down by the bowsprit. And, uh...check the rigging. Yeah.
Shoon: Check the what now?
Hervey: ... *stands there and takes a deep breath so that he doesn't suddenly engage in another shouting match* ... Look, forget it. ... Let's just forget this ever happened. I'm glad you're okay, alright? ... Let's go back. *clenching his fists a little, he turns around to start heading out to fetch Lazlo and Shoon*
Lazlo: The rigging. *points to the lattices of rope that bind all the sails and masts*
Shoon: *stares at it* So how do you check it?
Lazlo: Oh, just look it over to make sure the ropes aren't fraying anywhere.
Lazlo: You can even climb up it, to the top of the mast.
Shoon: Ummm.... OK, I'll try.
Lazlo: Be careful, Shoon. *though climbing the rigging is old hat for most sailors*
Kika: *Grabs his wrist to stop him, though again doesn't look him in the eye, still quite upset* I mean it, I.... I want you to forgive me.
Shoon: *staying on the deck for the most part, leaves the rest for Lazlo, 'cause he does not want to fall into the water*
Lazlo: *grabs the latticed ropes and climbs steadily partway up the center mast, mainly to check the sails for holes and such*
Hervey: *a part of him doesn't really want to move, but the irrational part pulls his wrist back as he looks at her, still looking frustrated, though there's a hint of regret in his expression now* ... There's nothing to forgive, Captain. *and then, without pausing* Let's go, we're keeping Lazlo and the kid waiting.
Shoon: *to Lazlo* I've decided. I'm not climbing up this thing.
Lazlo: That's all right... *mostly focusing on not falling, here*
Kika: ...Right....I'll be up in a minute. Get ready to make way.
Hervey: *looks partly relieved that the issue has been avoided for now... though he doesn't look too happy as he climbs back up on deck, eyes searching for Shoon, Lazlo and Elza* ... Alright, kids, we're going now.
Shoon: Yo.
Lazlo: *clinging like a spider to the main mast rigging* Ah...really? Hang on!
Hervey: *looks a little surprised to see Shoon* ... Where the hell have you been? *absently looking up at Lazlo*
Lazlo: *carefully climbing hand-over-hand back down to the deck*
Shoon: I got a tattoo. Finding Kika was your thing. I just came along to beat monsters up.
Hervey: ... A tattoo? *glances back at Shoon once he's satisfied Lazlo won't fall on his face or anything* Where? Show me.
Kika: *Sits down, covering her face in her hands, trying to compose herself* Damnit...
Lazlo: *dropping down onto the deck with a firm thud and brushing off his hands* Ah...Hervey...
Shoon: *pulls up his shirt and his down his pants a little to show the blue star he has where leg an hip meet*
Hervey: *raises an eyebrow at the tattoo, about to make some remark about it... but he just shrugs and nods* Not too bad... Yeah, Lazlo?
Shoon: I figured for my third it should be something more... I dunno. Intimate, I think.
Hervey: Something to show off to the ladies or... whoever, eh? *a bit of his old grin returning*
Lazlo: *sort of ignores the tattoo-showing for the moment* Uh...is everything all right?
Shoon: *flushes* What was that?
Hervey: ... Everything's fine. Everything'll be fine. *says it as if it repeating it will make it true* ... Let's just go, alright? We've got a lot t'do with only the few of us here.
Shoon: *adjusting his clothes back into place while glaring at Hervey* I am not going near the rail, and I am not climbing anything.
Lazlo: *nodding* Okay. I'm ready to help with anything, just give the order. It's my turn to call Kika captain.
Hervey: ... Going to sit in a corner hugging yourself, then? *says that to Shoon, maybe a little amused, but he looks serious again when he nods back at Lazlo* ... Yeah, you know what to do.
Shoon: Fine, maybe I will.
Hervey: ... Wuss.
Lazlo: Aye, aye! *goes to unfurl all the sails and prepare to raise anchor when the order is given, looking totally at home on the ship*
Shoon: Hey, I know squat about boats, and I can't swim all that good.
Hervey: ... Just do what the other kid tells you. *kind of watches Lazlo belatedly, half-wondering what the heck he's doing here... and then he sighs, pushing himself to move* Alrighty, I'm gonna' find Elza and just make sure she's with us before we take off. Don't fall overboard~
Lazlo: Shoon! You can help me raise the anchor, when the captain gives the order. I'll need your arm strength.
Shoon: *sticks his tongue out at Hervey and goes to help Lazlo, staying as far away from the rail as possible and still be helpful*