@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

f the soft mattress beneath them. "Bonam noctum, Salleone."

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

She surprised herself at how quickly she went from first name to short name. Their dinner together had been so enjoyable and there was just something about the professor revealing a vulnerable moment in his life that made her feel a little more connected to him. Just when she feels perhaps there's a hint of progress between them, he looks at her completely oblivious. It's like he cant pick up on her signals. Or... worse, maybe he simply doesn't want to pick up on them. The confusion on his face causes her shoulders to droop, and a twinge of disappointment to grace her features. it almost feels like he's shooting her down before she's even had a chance to fly. Does he genuinely not see that she might care for him? Or is he being obtuse, trying to evade her? "I just..." She sighs a little, exhausted from the day, "... curses are a bit of a weak area in my knowledge. I can't guarantee I could cure any magical mishaps." Her heavy eyelids close for a while as she pulls the covers tight around her shoulders, tucking her share under her feet and body. As if she's trying to wrap herself tight in a protective cocoon. "It's the main thing I want to research whilst we're here"

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone) -# Sorry for tagging twice, I had a brain fart lol

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Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

slightscribbles

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She shortened his name. He looks over to her again, a little surprised at how comfortable she got so quickly. Perhaps the cleric is too uptight or formal, but he finds it difficult to even think about shortening her name just yet, even with how it takes him a moment to pronounce the full thing correctly. Her firm tone when she confirms it's good he stopped messing with those things, followed by the next addition, he's a little unsure how to react. It's almost like the tiny things are a lot to take in for a few seconds and he needs a moment to buffer. "Ahm... yes, I do not intend to get cursed again. Once was enough." A small pause. "And what do you mean of use to me?" He really is oblivious, isn't he. Even though he can sense the growing attention and care from her he just can't... understand it. Possible he is also just overthinking all of this and she feels no such things for him at all. But what if she does? How and why would that have happened? He has not courted her proper, so he fails to see the connections. At least for now. He is not quite to the point in this book yet that would give him some valid things to think about.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

"Oh my... Al..." She whispers in shock, resisting the urge to reach out and place her hand on his, recalling how the last time that happened he flinched. Perhaps this dramatic entanglement with the cursed collar is a reason why he was suddenly so averse to her touch. Little does she know, it's not even the worst thing that's happened to this curious old fox. She redirects her desire to comfort him on to her pillow, clutching the cushiony softness with a tight embrace. There is at least some relief to hear that he doesn't mess around with such trinkets anymore, though he does have quite a lot of odd bits and bobs on display in his office, hopefully they don't all have stories like this. "Well, good" She says, a little firmer than she intended, as if she wants him to feel like his importance to her is growing by the day, so he better bloody well look after himself! "Because I don't know how much use I'd be if you go getting yourself cursed again." It's not like she's had much luck breaking her own.

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

Hearing his first name used opposed to his last, or even just his title, is still something he is slowly going to have to get used to. Simply nodding in confirmation to her echoing the effects he explained, he furrows his brow a bit in reminiscence at her following questions. His eyes turn downcast to blankly stare at his book. "I just did not speak at all unless I had to." He answers. "If I broke its rules, it would..." a slightly uncomfortable twinge in his expression, "choke me." He pauses, face falling into a bit of what looks like sadness more than anything. "Or shock me with magic. Sometimes both, depending on how hard I was fighting it." Not that he really had a lot of issues keeping silent in the first place. Talking to others has never been a strongsuit. There is not many things he will risk anymore. He's hardly the man he was when he was in his teens and twenties. Through his thirties and now his forties, he's simply refined himself. Plenty of time has been spent alone, or with the company of very few trusted individuals. The man sucks in a deep breath, schooling his tone and posture to a more refined form. "No matter." He exhales, opening his book up a bit more. "I do not dabble in such things anymore."

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Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

slightscribbles

Yltrin

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@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

A dumb mistake? The phrase intrigues her. So far her opinion of Alestan is that he's a very careful man who is rarely anything less than perfectly composed. He doesn't seem like the adventurous type with a cavalier attitude who throws caution to the wind. She puts her book down, and turns to face the professor fully. Settling in against her pillow, a silent invitation for him to continue. She's keen to discover this new (or old?) side of him. The lashing rain outside had finally softened to a hushed patter against the windowpane, flames from the candlelight bathed the room and their bodies in a warm orange glow; the perfect atmosphere for a story. As he recounts his tale, Alestan's usual steady gaze flickers with a hint of something Sal couldn't quite place - regret? vulnerability? A small gasp escaped her lips whilst he explains that the collar had stolen his voice. She'd never have guessed the object was cursed. The thought of such a thing taking you by surprise, constricting you both physically and verbally... it sent a shiver down her spine. How long would it take to trust touching anything again, lest it strike out and leash you? "Oh Alestan..." She whispered, her voice filled with concern. "Only three words at a time...How did you manage? What happened if you tried to say more?"

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

He hums lightly in acknowledgement at her answer. He coukd kind of tell by the cover, anyhow. Not surprising, per se, as she is a druid. Not to be presumptuous, of course, as it is a subject available to any who need it. He wonders what her interest is in it, specifically. There is not quite a chance to ask her before she continues by thanking him for the entry. "Oh, yes, of course." Al answers, closing his book a little as he swaps his full attention to her. The question of what he had used to grant her said entry was bound to come up. With how the duo of items looked, it ought to have looked rather strange. "Not at all." He answers to if he minded parting with it. In fact, there is relief in his tone. "It was... a product if a dumb mistake." Before he was a professor, he dabbled in exploration. Spelunking, more specifically. For enchanted artifacts. It was something he always had a bit of a curiosity and interest for. Turns out, it did not return the sentiment, making it quite clear this man with certain tendencies to be both lucky and unlucky at the same time, was not really fit for it. "I spent a few years searching for enchanted objects, before Ren got me the job at the university." He explains. "That collar was one I came across. I failed to see what was so special about it, so when I touched it, it ah..." He slowly motions with a clawed hand towards his throat. "Kind of grabbed hold of me and did not let go." A pause paired with a small scoff. "It took hold of my voice as well. Turns out it was cursed. It kept me from speaking more than three words at a time." He raises his hand, "per reply, mind you." Adjusting a bit more to situated as pillow behind his back and resting his arm back down, he continues. "That book contains its curse. The only way to get it off me was to transfer it to something else."

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Her eyebrows raise, a little smile spreading across her face. A romance novel huh? Suggested by his good friend as a way to help him, perhaps maybe, to encourage him, give him some ideas on how he could sweep a certain someone off her feet?! "Mmm, sounds like a real mystery" She says knowingly. "Ah, mines not as entertaining. I'm reading about the flora and fauna of Chult" More specifically she's interested in the the diseases you can catch from the beasts that live there as well as any known antidotes and cures. Not for any particular reason other than insatiable curiosity. "Oh, forgive me, I don't think I ever thanked you for providing the entrance fee for me, so thank you, I really appreciate it! I've been wanting to come here for so long! What was the so special about that book and the leather thing anyway? I hope it was something you didn't mind parting with?"

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

He only gets through about one other page of his book before she asks him about it. "Oh, uhm, yes. So far." He answers, glancing over to her. "I am only on chapter three." He shifts his eyes back to the page, brows furrowing in focus and thought. "Ren recommended it to me, though I am not as much of a romance reader as he is." He scoffs at the memory of the moment the werewolf told him about it. "He said it would... help me? Somehow?" The cleric lightky shakes his head. "I fail to understand what he means by that." Returning to the story for a few more lines, he then pauses, looking over to what Sal's entertainment of choice is for the evening. "How about yours?"

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Oh... well, perhaps she should give him more credit. She wasn't expecting a harsh critique, but she figured her sleepwear would elicit a scoff at the least. In fact, so confident was the nurse in her expectation of her friend's reaction that she was fully preparing to sass him. She has no reply ready for the verdict of looking _cute and comfortable_, so she simply beams bashfully and curtseys at him. "Mmm, oh yeah of course, I don't have a side, i'm happy here." Rounding the other side of the bed she fishes in her bag and pulls out a rather thick field guide about the remote jungles of Chult. Then she joins him in the bed, wriggling under the covers, and props herself up against the headboard, casting her gaze to whatever he's reading. She wonders what it is, biography? science? Religion? "Good book?"

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

Well, if he feels anything, it is slight confusion. This is what she was worried about him judging? There are worse things. Mushrooms with smiley faces are fairly... what is the word... tame. He cocks a brow in slight amusement, a light chuckle escaping him. "You look..." He starts, "comfortable." His tone is not in any way mocking, more so on the playful side, actually. "It is cute." Standing from the chair, he strides over to the right side of the bed. The side closest to the door. It's a habit, and it's likely it will never die. Not after... no matter. There is no need to get into it. Especially not with a coworker. For now. "I will take this side, if that is alright." Then, he sits upon the soft surface, wriggling a little to slip his legs under the covers, keeping propped up against the headboard with his book repositioned in front of him. Seems he really hasn't a care in the world for the circumstances. They call one another by their first names now, so he sees no issue, simply returning to reading from where he left off. Damn, this hunter is persistent...

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Well, godsdamnit! He looks good all tousled hair and muscles on display in his plain black vest. Why couldn't he be the type to sleep in one of those big dorky nightgowns and caps? No, instead he's gotta lie there looking like a hot frogging snack! She checks herself in the mirror again... And sighs... She doesn't know what his type normally is but she can only imagine she's the polar opposite in her whimsically cute mushroom PJ's. With a little frantic fumbling she tries styling the top with a half tuck. ... Ugh, now she's trying too hard. Never mind, she's hidden in the bathroom for long enough, time get out there and throw herself into the friend-zone! She strides out, stopping in front of the bed to model her clothes, pulling a couple of poses from all angles with the deadpan demeanour of a supermodel. "Well, what do you think?"

For reference

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

axir0

Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob]

.mushrooming

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob]

.mushrooming

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@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

For the entire time his travel partner, or, friend, rather, (first name basis now, remember?) is in the shower, Alestan occupies himself with a book he brought along with him, sitting on the desk chair with it. Its some romance novel Ren had recommended him. Its enlightening, as he described it. The cleric has never been quite as interested in the genre as his wolf friend is, but he humored him and said he would give it a try. It's a story of a vampire lord and a human hunter, following all the way from their chance meeting, the hunter moving into the castle to work for the lord, and of course them falling for one another in the process. A taboo love story with such detail and depth to its world and characters, filled with danger, politics and much more. Admittedly, it's reader hasn't been able to put it down. At least, not until Sal pokes her head out and speaks to him. "Hmm?" Al hums, looking up from the book, loose, shaggy hair swaying lightly. (Obviously he is not going to sleep with product in his hair.) Judge her nightwear? What is there to judge? He, himself, is in a black tank top (his toned arms on full display) and matching sweatpants. That is about as plain as you can get. "I will not." He confirms, tone laced with a bit of curiosity at whatever it is she is so worried about.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Back in the room, Salleone takes to the shower, spending a good hour in there, mainly due to drying her hair. She pulls her pyjamas out of her bag and dresses, she's been keeping them hidden, a little embarrassed by how cute they are. She wasn't expecting to be sharing a room with the professor so she just packed the first thing had to hand. The door to the bathroom creaks open and Sal pops her head out. "Ok... Alestan... you have to promise me you won't judge my choice of nightwear."

Outside, the storm rumbles around the inn, rain lashing at the windows, but inside is a haven of warmth and comfort. The atmosphere is thick with conversation, the crackle of the hearth, the enticing aroma of hearty stews and pies, spicy wings, freshly baked bread and a carvery with a selection of vegetables, large roasted hunks of turkey, ox, and boar ready to be served by a friendly hobgoblin. Alestan leads Sal to a cosy nook in the corner where they make polite comments on their surroundings before their server arrives to take their order. Whilst they wait, Sal suggests a game to pass the time. Surreptitiously casting her gaze around the room, she lands on a wizened old man in the corner. "What do you think his story is?" she asks. The professor comments that this game seems rather judgemental, how can you make possibly make assumptions about someone from one glance? Sal rolls her eyes, giggling. "It's just for fun. Look at the way his brow is furrowed in concentration" She turns back to her companion, "I bet he's worried because he's discovered some ancient prophecy here that foretells the end of the world." Alestan glances over and shakes his head with scoff, "It isn't anything so serious, he's trying to remember where his spectacles are, they are on top of his head." She playfully kicks at his ankle and laughs. Over the course of the evening they discover several characters between them: the assassin, the mad scientist, the secret princess, and the glamoured hag, each with a fully fleshed out backstory that perhaps even Olifyr Lockway himself would be proud of. Once they've filled their minds with stories and their bellies with fries & wings and pie & mash, it's finally time to return to the room, and of course, _the bed_.

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Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

axir0

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🚿 🚿 🚿 🚿

By the time he's out of the shower she's finished unpacking all her bits and bobs, apart from her rather large wash bag. She's also out of her tight leathers and wearing a far more comfortable autumnal themed ensemble. Soft boots with a knitted trim, dark leggings, a brown vest and an orange chunky knit jumper which hangs to the side revealing a lightly freckled shoulder, framed by the tumble of her light blonde curls and braids. As he drifts past her she catches his scent, he may have even heard a little '_Mmm_' escape her lips. The two of them together work nicely, he smells like the rain outside thrashing at their windows, she smells like the comfort of cuddles in front of a log fire with notes of cashmere, sandalwood and oud. "Alright, let's go" She smiles, grabbing the keys, waiting for him to finish his laces.

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Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

axir0

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@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

Oh. Yea. They haven't eaten properly all day, now that she mentions it. "Yes, fair point." He replies with a small chuckle, pulling out a change of clothes and throwing it over his shoulder. "I will not take long, then." It is better to get it out of the way now, anyways. It will leave the bathroom open for his travel companion for pretty much the rest of the night. Plus, it is a bit cold, given the weather outside, so the warmth will feel nice. Speaking of which, the storm has grown only stronger, rain now having begun to fall and tap against the window. The wind whistles by the window, racing past the leaves of overgrowth upon the outside wall. They're too high up for any trees to reach them, but the vines make up for it. Some even hang over the edges and corners of the stone framing, diving in and out of cracks here and there. Al turns and disappears into the bathroom, the light from it getting cut off by the door shutting. As he said, he doesn't take long. The shower can only be heard running for maybe ten minutes before it's off. It takes a little longer for him to actually emerge, having towel dried and brushed back his hair. It's curled a bit at its tips, wetness still somewhat holding on. It's obvious it wants to fight against the styling a little, but product keeps it held down nicely. For the most part. Now in a more comfortable looking set of casual clothes, a plain black shirt and comfortable black pants, the whole outfit complete with a (you guessed it) black longsleeved cardigan that tails just below knee-level. It's not like they have to be super dressed up to be here. But he still looks very nice. Smells nice, too. He's wearing a light cologne that smells like the musk of the rain outside with a hint of hydrangea. Moving back to the chair to put on a different pair of shoes, he looks over at the druid. "Just about ready when you are."

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING -# (super small reply!)

The little thrill she got from messing with him lights up her face despite her attempts to look neutral so she makes sure she's angled away from him, searching in her bag, bending down to plug in her charger. When she answers him she's still looking anywhere but in his direction. "It's ok, you go first. Are we going down for dinner? If so i'll shower later, i'm going to turn into a skeleton if I don't eat soon. "

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

With her leaning in just inches away, he leans backwards a little, the chair creaking a little with the motion. He's unsure how to react to the proximity. His lips slightly part while she sounds out her name for him, making each syllable clear with her tone and pronunciation. Perhaps he has taught her rather well, as that's also what he does when providing sounded out examples. Her eyes meet his, and something sparks in his gut. A small, rather staggered hum of acknowledgement rumbles in his throat before getting caught, knotting up a little, forcing him to swallow and shut his mouth into a thin line. Keep practicing. Yea. Wait... with what, exactly? What were they talking about? When she pats his shoulder and says he'll get it, he snaps out of it, quietly clearing his throat. Oh, that's right. Names. They're on first name basis now. "Mhmm." He replies, standing up and starting to sift through his own bag again. After a long few moments, he speaks up. "I am going to shower." He looks over to her. "Would you rather go first, or...?"

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Gods her name sounds so hot on his tongue. Not that she will be telling him that, of course. Frogs! Is she on her period or something? Why is she trying to mess with him? This is not going to help her get through the tenday without clawing the walls. "Watch my lips" she instructs, as she bends forwards slightly, mere inches from his face, her gaze focused on his mouth. "Sa-lee-OHH-nh" Soft sapphire eyes flick up to consider his emeralds briefly, until... "Keep practicing." She snaps back up, patting him on the shoulder as she saunters past to finish emptying her bag. "You'll get it."

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

Loosening his first shoe enough to slip off, he does so, placing it neatly under the desk before starting on the other. This is when her jacket ends up plopping on its surface not far in front of him. He slows in his motions with the laces, currently having them slid over his fingers so he can pull and loosen. Ok, so, maybe he has heard her say her name before literally down in the front office, but his ass was not paying attention. He slightly turns his head, eyes flicking to look up at her fron his bent over position, a brow raising. Then, he yanks the laces, holding them between his fingers as he softly inhales. "Sall-e-one." He repeats, a bit slower and deeper. He straightens up, kicking off the second shoe next to the other, tilting his head at her. "Better?"

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

A playful smirk tugs at her lips, oh how the _turn tables_! Now he's the one who needs tutoring. He's mostly got it, but with that sensual accent she's going to need to hear it one more time, just to be sure, of course. With a deliberate flick of her wrist, she unzips her jacket, tossing it carelessly on to the desk, then turns to face him, taking a few, measured. Steps. Closer. Her eyes, alight with a mix of amusement and intrigue fix on the man before her, loosening his laces. "Say it again."

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

, pulling it off his arms as he passes by her, just the air he disturbs brushing against her. Placing the item of clothing on the back of the desk chair as well, he sits down, still facing her, and begins to take off his shoes. Usually he’d have done that sooner, but these are laced up a lot more than his regular every day sets.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

One curious dark blonde eyebrow slowly arches skywards at how naturally that suggestion just rolled off his tongue. Is this a seduction tactic? Did he grow so accustomed the embrace of her arms during their journey that he's hoping she'll hold him more intimately tonight? Or is the concept of sharing a bed free from awkwardness because he harbours zero romantic interest in her? For a moment she hesitates to answer as both outcomes play on her mind. Whilst her physical attraction to him is undeniable, a casual fling or a quick romp are the least of her desires. Plus she isn't quite ready to pack in the fantasy that something could happen between them yet. Delululand is fun and free of consequences, real life is... messy. Ok, if it doesn't bother him, she'll be damned if she lets it bother her. She pulls her clothes from her bag and carries them over to the wardrobe. "Well, I've never shared a bed with someone I wasn't on a first name basis with and I don't intend to start now..." Her blonde head peers around the door frame so she can see him, a little challenge sparkling in her eyes that encourages him to cross the boundary into friendship. "...Alestan."

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@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

“It is improper of me to let you do that.” The professor is straight to the point. His tone is not harsh at all. On the contrary, it is rather soft. It’s clear he appreciates her trying to turn the offer, but he simply cannot allow it. However, if they cannot reach an agreement, well, that only really leaves one other realistic option. “Or we can just,” he tilts his head a little in consideration of what he’s about to say, ”share it.” No need for either one of them to get all sore and knotted from lying on the floor. It would save them a trip to a masseuse, especially considering they are here for just over a week. “I personally do not mind. It makes sense in the long run.” Always on the logical side, he is. The man is not really thinking about the specific type of discomfort the druid may be trying to avoid. Just the pure facts of the mater regarding their circumstances alone. Bending over his bag, he opens it and starts digging a hand inside, pulling out small items such as a comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, the works. “Though if it is something you would prefer not to do,” standing back up straight, he looks over at her before starting to head for the bathroom, “then do not worry about it.” Slipping silently out of sight, the bathroom light flicks on, it's warm glow seeping out into the small hallway by the entry. Through the open door his organizing can be heard as he sets his items nicely upon the counter.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Too anxious to talk, she follows him to the lift and as soon as he apologises she blurts out her own. "No no no, that's ok, I'm sorry, I should have thought!" She appreciates his chivalry in offering to take the couch but argues that he doesn't have to do that, whether he listens is another matter. At least the room is nice, simple but it has everything they need, including a bathroom ... wait that's not good, he's going to hear her using it. Gods well that's the mystery between them gone! Maybe she can cover any noises by turning on the taps, would that work?! Or would it just sound like she pees like a racehorse? This isn't going well... Oh and look, seems like no-one will be sleeping on the couch after all! "Well ok, hear me out... you drove us here, so I insist that you take the bed, and I'll take the floor."

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

The bathroom is just a few steps away from the entry, the mirror behind the sink reflecting back at them a little through its cracked open door. Something is missing. Al walks in after Sal, closing the door behind him. For some reason, he cannot place what feels off. Walking up to the desk, he looks about the area again. Overall, everything really does seem quite similar to the rooms he has had before, what could possibly be- ... There is no couch. Taking a deep inhale, the cleric places the strap of his bag on the desk chair, a long exhale following suit. It's fine. He can just ask for one of those roll-in mattresses. If worst comes to worst, he can just sleep on the floor. He'll serve his penance.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

"...Only one room currently clean and open." (_Sorry, what??_) Why did it not occur to her to book a room in advance?! Of course you'd have to book during the holidays! "...Though it only has one bed" *(_Sorry, what?!) Well what are they gonna do now?! "...We'll just have to go with that then." ## (SORRY, WHAT?!) Ok... there's nothing to panic about, she can always go into cat form—though, she tends to return to normal if she's asleep for too long. Ok, here's the plan. Cat form, lay on the couch and pretend to sleep, wait for Al to start snoring then she can safely sleep. All that's left is to set an early alarm, wake up before him, cat form again and not only will he not perceive her, he wont get a glimpse of the adorable mushroom pyjamas she packed too! Gods, what a farce.. "S—Salleone Willowmoon" She timidly answers, looking to Al with apologetic eyes, already angling to shoulder the blame herself.

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

The one time he doesn't plan ahead. Or, no, wait, he did, he just... fuck. He forgot to actually book a room because he distracted himself the night before they left with the- Nevermind! "O-oh. I see." He replies, a bit sheepishly. "Though it only has one bed." The woman adds, raising an eyebrow and shifting her attention between the two visitors. She seems almost smug. Like this prospect will make them leave and no longer bother her. Alestan pauses. What choice do they have? None, really. Time to face the consequences of his actions. Or, more like his non-actions. He can take the couch. Its fine. It wouldn't be the first time he's fallen asleep on a piece of furniture other than a bed, nor is it the worst. "We will just have to go with that, then." He finally answers. The Sister's eyes shift back down to the logbook, her hopes of them bailing snuffing out like a spent cigarette. "Names." She states, her tone a thin line of smoke as she picks up the quill from its tiny ink pot. "Alestan Scion." The cleric answers, a tad quietly due to the fact his mind is already yelling in panic trying to come up with a good excuse to give Sal.

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING Sorry if there's typos! 😄

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Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

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Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

axir0

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The nurse is a little disappointed they got the monk who is desperate to get rid of them, but she also kind of understands her attitude. The comment about the temple's full rooms has her a little nervous too, hopefully there's enough room here! Now they're finally in and out of the cold, Sal follows Al to the check in desk, whispering about how she can't wait to get into some comfy clothes and come down for dinner.

"This beautifully humble structure is the Temple of Oghma. If you are interested, services begin at 12pm, and are led by Lorekeeper Kei. The small building just to the left are the communal baths and steam house. In the past this was the only place to wash but thankfully we now we have the luxury of plumbing in the bedrooms." Finally! Something modern that the little monk actually approves of! "Which brings us on to the lodgings. Unfortunately, as a cleric of Oghma you would have been allowed to stay in the temple, but we seem to be pretty popular during this time of year and the rooms are full. However, the bedrooms in the House of Rest are very adequate. Come, I will check you in." The Monk hurries to the the House of Rest, a three-story building which provides seekers with a place to rest and store their gear while visiting Candlekeep. Though the edifice and interior still have that old rustic charm, the furniture and decorations inside are well maintained and clean. She stands behind the check in desk, waiting for them to approach.

"To the left are the Pillars of Pedagogy, here you can use our silenced reading rooms to peruse our less volatile collection of books at your leisure." -# (Writer's amendment - I attached an updated bit of the Candlekeep map because the Pillars of Pedagogy are named "Necessariums" in the old map, which basically means "Toilets" it looks like they updated it in a later book so this area actually has a function instead of just being one ginormous bathroom. "If you have need for clothes or tailoring the Erudite Outfitters and Clothiers will provide their services for a fee, ᵗʰᶦˢ ᶦˢ ᵃˡˢᵒ ʷʰᵉʳᵉ ʸᵒᵘ'ˡˡ ᶠᶦⁿᵈ ᵗʰᵉ ᵍᶦᶠᵗ ˢʰᵒᵖ" She seems to quickly gloss over that last bit as if she's embarrassed that this proud fortress of knowledge and lore has a tacky gift shop with little logos printed on cups and gaudy coloured keyrings. In fact she sees it as a point of pride that she can't find her name on the fridge magnets. "The House of the Binder will provide a scribing service if you'd like a copy of our books and scrolls, though of course, the majority of books in The Great Library will be off limits." She seems to have no qualms about making copies of the books, probably because she uses this service a lot, aiming to make her own mini Candlekeep in her room. "Over here is The Hearth: our tavern and dining hall, you'll find it's a lot bigger on the inside than it is on the outside, that's thanks to the artificers of Gond and their geometric amplifier." You won't find her in here for longer than is absolutely necessary.

"Good" the monk continues her spiel, quickly rattling off the names of the buildings surrounding them with all the enthusiasm of a true misanthrope who is desperate to get out of the cold and back her books; none of which talk, ask questions or bother her—well, apart from that particularly chatty one she keeps trying to lose. "This here is the Court of Air, towards the back is the Emerald Door," She turns to point at the slightly luminescent door, glowing green in the dim light. "Behind that is the Great Library; admission to which is not automatically granted, you must make an application and a monk will accompany you at all times, lest you get lost in it's labyrinthine halls and extradimensional spaces." The monk eyes them as if she's already praying their access to the Great Library is denied, she really doesn't like outsiders touching the _precious books_! "Over there are the old stables, which as you will have noted, by the amount of cars we have cluttering up the place, there isn't much need for nowadays." This seems to be a particular point of contention for the monk, who sometimes wishes she was born at the birth of Candlekeep, when the raw, traditional, beauty of the castle wasn't marred by eyesore of tourists with their modern machines. Hearing her tone of disdain, one of the senior monks at the gate turns to glare at Sister Fronicka. She grumbles under breath and coughs, continuing with a very mild improvement to her attitude.

-# hang on, gotta research! I'll reply soon!

It's only as Al hands over the book and it's leather piece that she realises its meant to be a collar. A collar etched in runes that's specifically tied to this book. Are you meant to wear it whilst you read? An image of Alestan, poring over the mysterious tome in his office, tugging a little at the collar around his neck invades her minds eye. The monk probing their minds for ill intent smirks as he gives her a knowing look, it's not like he's taken a vow of celibacy to be here. Sal catches his look, confused by his smirk at first, then she realises, *detect thoughts*. With a sharp inhale she quickly she clears the image from her mind and firmly averts her gaze away from his. Thankfully, Al's offering is accepted and the stocky little annoyed woman leads them inside. Sal can't quite believe it, she half expected them to get turned away just like she was sent away 10 years ago because her mentors offering was not deemed valuable, but now she finally gets to enter! Accompanying the clank and scrape of the metal is the sound of many voices chanting. The courtyard, currently devoid of people as the storm picks up, is covered in glittering decorations for Wintershield which flutter and flip around within the rising winds. "Any questions before I begin?" The squat little monk asks Sal wants to ask what the chanting is about but the disinterested look on the little woman's face tells her she wants to wrap this up as fast as possible, so Sal simply shakes her head.

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

He notices the detect thoughts spell. It is not abnormal here, so he doesn't fight it, allowing them to discover the two of them mean no harm and are here for genuine reasons. The large double door entry cracks open, a heavy sound of dragging chains and creaking metal accompanying the castle opening its jaws for them. The woman continues leading inside, her hands clasped together in front of her, the other four robed individuals watching like hawks as they enter. As the doors start to creak and scrape closed again, the crashing of the sea against the earth all around the fortress reaches in one last time before it's muted by the heavy thud of the entry sealing shut. The woman finally turns to face them, her expression still very monotone, not unlike the cleric in front of her, yet there's a crease to her brow signaling some type of displeasure. Or perhaps distaste. "I am Sister Fronicka. You are to refer to me by that name and nothing else. I am your guide while you are here for your ten days. Are there any questions before I begin?"

-# Ffs, ok, yes, we know you know lmao

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Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

slightscribbles

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Once his travel partner confirms she's ready, he leads on until they reach the massive front gates, four individuals robed in purple standing in wait to receive them. -# Writer is too tired/lazy to make tuppers and go super into detail with this aspect, so bear with me. The stocky woman approaches and speaks up. "What tithe do you bring?" Her tone is straightforward. Almost emotionless in how direct the question is asked. Al holds a finger up, signaling them to wait a moment as he reaches into his bag and pulls out the locked book and leather object with it. Upon closer inspection, his travel partner should now notice the leather piece is too small to be a belt. It's also covered in runes etched into its surface. The cleric holds them out, but the woman doesn't accept it with her bare hands. She conjures a mage hand to accept it for her before she begins looking it over, thougoughly and completely, physically and magically. Once done, she shifts her indifferent gaze back up to the cleric and druid. Its at this point Al unzips his jacket a little, just enough to pull out a pendant with the symbol of Oghma on it. An identification that he's a cleric under that specific god. The woman only hums in acknowledgement before sending the magic hand to take the items away, turning and gesturing for them to follow.

-# Just checking to see if Sal knows what they're casting on them

@Axiro {Tav: Alestan} - PING

Overall the ride wasn't too bad, in fact it was pretty exhilarating once she let herself trust Al drive them here safely. The worst part was that she had to down her hot coffee at the services faster than she'd like because they had to beat the storm. She gets off the bike, stretching her legs and fishing her bag from its storage. The fortress of Candlekeep is incredible and imposing, designed to be a bastion of knowledge. Answers to questions you haven't even thought of yet may lay inside, waiting to be discovered by hungry bookworms; but not any old bookworm is allowed to peruse the pages the monks here guard. Adequate and particular payment much be provided first, hopefully Alestan has just thing to secure their passage. The nurse pulls off her helmet, holding her ponytail so the wind doesn't whip it into her face. Her expression a mix of anticipation and excitement to see what lies inside, and also to get warm by a fire, eating some sort of hearty stew with crusty bread, safe and cosy while the grey skies and oncoming sheets of rain pelt the tough weathered buildings. But first, the purple robed monks await their offering. "Ready!" The little stocky woman at the end seems particularly vexed to see them approaching, and another already seems to be casting a spell. -# they're casting detect thoughts to make sure they're not looking to destroy the books or come here for nefarious purposes

@Slightscribbles (Tav: Salleone)

It only took about two hours or a bit over to arrive. They of course stopped for gas or other necessities when needed on the way, but due to the distance of the inclement weather, they didn't waste much time. As expected, once they're at the entry and parking, the sky has grown dark, wind picking up and blowing through the crevices of the massive fortress itself. The air smells of moisture, and paired with the imposing shadow of the sharp castle-like towers, it provides an imposing feeling. Like eyes are upon them, pinning them down with a gaze unlike any other. Like the gods themselves are the judge, joury, and executioner. Turning off the bike, Al directs Sal off the bike first, then follows suit. Reaching into his bag, he pulls out the bike's cover. Seems his bag is enchanted as a bag of holding as well. -# Because his writer is zooted and forgot to remember to mention he took the cover, too. Once the bike is safely shielded and they have collected all their items, he starts leading to the main entry area for visitors. Once there, he pulls his helmet off, holding it in the crook of his arm as he looks to the druid. "Ready?"

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