Open Complete Lake Horatio Tides and Tales

MayoYume · Feb 25, 2023

The soft crunch of snow under her feet was almost rhythmic, reminding her that she had arrived at the worst possible time of year. Still, she had to admit that the entire scene was lovely - breathtaking in a way, even if a bit chilly. She smiled as she pulled the winter cloak closure around herself, enjoying the simplicity in it all.

The water lapped at the snow-covered beach, where it remained unfrozen. Places that had either broken away beneath the weight of something, or had failed to freeze entirely regardless of the chill in the air. Either way, Yume couldn't help but note the beauty in it all - a calmness covering the area that seemed almost serene considering the natural habit.

Absolutely beautiful, even if it's not picture perfect! Or, I guess it is picture perfect, just a tad cold. I can see why people like this place.

She settled down on the ground, careful to place the cloak between her and the snow-covered sands in order to stay as warm as she could. The last thing she needed was to accidentally give herself hypothermia in a place like this. Not that it would be anywhere near as dangerous as in the real world - but she tried to avoid that danger if at all possible.

I definitely need to come back here in the summer. Oh, and the autumn! The leaves much look absolutely stunning in the autumn. But swimming in the summer would just be...wondrous! I mean, the lake might be a bit cold, but...it's beautiful.

She'd gotten used to speaking aloud to herself, having encountered few others in this game. It was one of the joys of avoiding the main settlements, when possible. Dangerous for sure, but certainly far more enjoyable. And peaceful...some time alone, away from all the people who just want to be heroes. Not that she was against it by any means - people played this game for any number of reasons, but sometimes being away was nice, relaxing even.

The soft crunch of snow as she leaned backwards slightly reminded her of the weather, and she once more pulled the cloak around herself - content to sit and watch the few small shifts in the lake water that signified life, either the wind causing it to move ever so slightly, or something beneath the surface making its appearance known.

Magnolia · Feb 26, 2023

"Hmph. That can't be good... Why Starcalled roads must trespass such complicated regions?" The dignified man huffed, staring at the caravan that got stuck, and looking at the driver who was so ashamed he didn't know where to shove his face. "We will talk about this when we get to our destination..." He frowned, before turning to Magnolia.

"Magnolia, I will be taking care of this caravan, to see if this man can somehow manage to fix it... But I'm afraid there is nothing we can do for now... So go, there is a lodge by Lake Horatio. It isn't far from here... Go there and see if there is anyone to give us assistance, or to rent a couple rooms for us."

Magnolia sighed, with a faint mist escaping from her lips as she tried to hold the warm cloak tightly wrapped around her. The cold prickled her skin, that was only thankfully protected because of her maid dress, that while it didn't make the best of the job at covering her chest, it was surely thick enough everywhere else.

Her gaze raised, being able to spot the lodge from far, far away into the lake that was now mostly frozen, which just served as another reminder about how cold the weather was.

As she made her path toward the lake, however, a jovial voice echoed, making her instinctively shift her gaze toward the source of the voice. At first, she considered ignoring it, but in hindsight, being able to talk to someone first to see if they would be able to assist her master could prove to be more effective.

Aproaching, with steps as gentle and light as feathers, Magnolia's silence could only be betrayed by the crunching snow, as long as the other woman was paying attention.

"Excuse me-"

She greeted, ignoring the fact the other was speaking to no one in particular.

"Do you happen to know if the lodge is open?" She questioned. "My master's caravan got stuck on snow, and he is seeking for a place to spend the day, until he finds someone who can assist him to fix his vehicle." Her eyes scanned the woman, eventually resting her gaze on the woman's sapphire eyes.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 25, 2023

Her gaze broke away from the scene around her, turning to look at what appeared to be a shivering form, bundled against the cold and yet still somehow suffering from it. Yume took a second to take stock of what she was seeing, before realising the other was waiting upon an answer from her. Sheepishly, she shook her head.

I haven't actually made my way over there, yet...but I think I saw smoke rising from it earlier? Did you say your master? Are you an apprentice of some sort?

Her voice was soft, a slight joyful tone ringing on each of the words as she seemed to play with them. She found her eyes glancing back behind the girl, as if expecting to see a caravan sitting behind her - before realising that she must have walked some ways to reach Yume.

If you want some company, I could come with you. Just in case they're closed...maybe I can help out, somehow? I'm not really skilled in...rebuilding caravan's, but...who knows? More minds together is always better, right?

Before the other could answer, Yume was scrambling to her feet and dusting the snow off her form, before turning towards the lodge in the distance. She hadn't planned on visiting it originally, but when someone came asking for help...

Come on, shouldn't take too long to get there.

She smiled back at the girl before turning back towards the lodge, taking a few slow steps to give her new companion time to catch up. I wonder if she's a player, or one of the locals of this world...it's probably rude to ask. Content that she'd simply found someone to spend some time with, Yume put the thought aside for the time. It didn't matter who - or what - this person was, they needed help, and Yume was there to help, as much as she could.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 26, 2023

Smoke rising... That was a good sign. What wasn't a good sign, however, was that the lady in front of her didn't seem all confident on helping in a caravan, nor did she mention that anyone in the lodge would be able to help.

"Apprentice?" Magnolia muttered, shaking her head and opening her cloak to reveal her dress. "I am just a maid, madam." She corrected gently, adding a polite bow on top of it, just to ensure that the other, despite beaming with joy and cheerfulness, wouldn't felt disrespected for being referred to impolitely by a maid. Magnolia wouldn't trust pretty smiles to be gentle ones, especially when she wasn't sure herself if the other was Lander or Starcalled.

She would bet the latter, however, considering Landers weren't silly enough to lay on snow.

"Only if that wouldn't be a bother to you, madam." She said, ensuring that helping her wasn't an obligation- Far from it, in fact.

But the eagerness of the other girl to help was impressive, already metaphorically pulling Magnolia to follow her, only confirming for the maid that, in fact, that young lady was a Starcalled. Always so meddlesome and prestative. It would be a headache if she was a newbie, and was looking forward some quest reward.

Still, the help was met with a grateful nod.

"I am very grateful... Please, do lead the way, madam." She wrapped herself in the cloak once again, slipping another mist through her lips before calmly following the other woman, only for her to give one careful question - "My apologies, if I am being too rude... But madam was sitting down on snow... Are you sure you will be fine? You may catch a cold, or worse. It may even harm your skin, if some get into your clothes." She said.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Mar 1, 2023

Yume twisted around at the question regarding lying in the snow, her smile disappearing ever so slightly as she realised the implications. She hadn't stopped to consider the impact it could have - the effect on her very body, even if it was just digital. She'd come to realise, slowly and with time, that this place was unlike any other.

I...hadn't considered that. I really should know better, but...it was just so beautiful that I couldn't resist enjoying the moment. I guess I just...got lost in the moment. Ūpusu.

Yume shrugged slightly, causing the winter cloak to shift ever so slightly. Her entire outfit - a combination of whites and blues - reminded her of the winter landscape around her, causing her to smile slightly.

I shall keep it in mind going forwards...Arigatō, for caring about my wellbeing. Not many would go out of their way to mention such concerns, especially not towards someone they just met. Tokuni hen'nahito.

Her last comment came off as little more than a mumbling to herself, realising just how odd she must have appeared to the other woman. Laying in the snow, in the middle of winter - rightfully risking frostbite among other concerns, for what?

You mentioned you were...a maid? I haven't met a maid in quite some time, and certainly not one from this wo-er, this area. Gomen'nasai, for mistaking you for something else.

She stopped long enough to turn and give a partial bow towards the other in sign of her apology. Habits that she had been taught, in the real world, which she had carried over. She had no idea what those from this world would think of her actions, but she couldn't break the habits that she had been raised with, taught to uphold.

My name is MayoYume...it's a pleasure to meet you...

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 26, 2023

Magnolia looked at the woman as she spoke, with the fact that she had simply lost herself in thoughts being the reason she was accidentally trying to catch some cold or worse being enough to amuse the maid a little. Not that she voiced it, but she couldn't help but think that maybe the other was either rather clumsy or an air-head.

Perhaps she had even just saved her now, by simply asking for help.

"Don't mention it, madam. None should allow any harm to come to you..." Magnolia said, suppressing a reaction regarding the words the woman had slipped- Words that didn't belong Common, which could only mean she was a player. Feigning faint confusion, Magnolia tilted her head and leaned in as she continued moving. "Ari... Gatou..? Tokuni..? These are foreign words, madam. Are you from another land..? Perhaps... A Starcalled?" She asked, wondering until introductions were made.

"Oh, of course, my deepest apologies..." Magnolia halted, bowing deeply once again. "My name is Magnolia." She introduced herself, finally before peeking up, not raising her bow. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Madam MayoYume. Once again, I give you my sincerest apologies, for my inappropriate behavior for not identifying myself to you."

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 26, 2023

Yume glanced at the other person for a brief couple of seconds, trying to connect what they were saying. She'd heard the term Starcalled before - another player had used it, once. A defining term, for those who had come from the world beyond. She struggled for a few moments more, trying to remember what they had used for those born in the game.

Landers...you're a lander, aren't you? Erm, one of the people from around here, right? I'm...not from around here, you're right. I come from...somewhere far away.

Yume suddenly realised that the other woman was still bent in her bow, as if waiting for something. Uncertain, but knowing what her etiquette required, she returned the bow - ensuring to go no lower than Magnolia.

Oh, right...the lodge! We should go see if there is someone there who can help you and your master out!

She turned back towards the lodge and took several steps forwards before she realised that the other may not have been following. Turning back, she reached for Magnolia and grabbed the maid's arm.

Dragging the girl, she continued towards the lodge with a smile on her face. She began chatting the moment that they were in motion once more, deciding that the least she could do was to break the silence.

So, you said you're a maid for your...Masutā? What is it you do, then? Like serving tea, and food and cleaning and stuff? Do they pay you well? Oh! Are you pledged to their family?

Her words had become faster as her excitement grew. She'd only met a maid once before, back in Japan. A woman who had been indebted to the family she served. Yume wondered if Magnolia's situation was similar.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 26, 2023

Magnolia didn't respond to Yume's question regarding if she was a Lander or not, offering very little but a faint purse of lips, one that the other couldn't probably even see due to how she was bent, and how quickly she was to hide her feelings. "I do live here." She said, and limited herself to just that.

Her eyes shifted up as she noticed Yume bowing as well, only making her blink as she rose her head again. "You shouldn't bow to a servant like me, madam Yume." She spoke, but the woman was already moving, only to halt herself and turn to grab her arm, making Magnolia's eyes widen slightly, in the faintest emotion of surprise as she was tugged. "M-Madam..?" Her eyes shifted from Yume and her arm, only for her to have the reminder that she was a Starcalled.

Yes, they were far less reserved.

This lack of reservation became even clearer as the woman meddled in Magnolia's life, making the maid ponder for a moment. "I serve my master completely, I do anything he tells me to do. Anything, anytime, be it domestic tasks and even something less... Casual." She said, resolute. "They... Do pay well. But I'm not pledged to the family, no..." Magnolia said. "I work for others too, but this master I work for the most, is the most generous and kind." She admitted, truthfully.

Magnolia then paused, looking at Yume.

"Starcalled are those that comes from the stars... I do wonder, madam Yume, if it isn't must to ask... But why you, such a fair and cheerful madam, is doing in this barbaric world? What are you trying to accomplish in Arcia?" She wondered.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 27, 2023

The maid spoke about the tasks - albeit loosely, and without any confirmation on exactly what, something that Yume noticed but knew better than to expand upon. It was interesting, to say the least, to know that some habits from the real world - the world beyond TerraSphere - existed here.

Barbaric...? I don't know if I'd give it that terminology...it has it's issues, that's for sure. As do many other places...like the place where the...err...Starcalled, come from. No world is without it's problems.

She stopped then, turning to look at the maid with a smile and a slightly cocked head, her eyes shining brightly as if in defiance of the idea. Her words were spoken slowly, and softly, a calm cadence to them as she tried to explain her perspective on it.

No where is entirely perfect...but if you look at the small things, you can see beauty within the chaos. Small glimmers that give people hope, and happiness.

She spun around, letting her dress flow ever so slightly in the wind that was caused by her movement. The giggle that she let out seemed to pierce the air, breaking an otherwise serene setting.

I guess...to me, it doesn't matter how dark and dreary a place may look...it's what's behind that curtain, that veil of sadness...that's what matters. I don't believe that anywhere is inherently bad, or evil...and this world has a lot of good to offer! You just have to look for it, and you'll see it.

Yume suddenly remembered their destination, grasping onto the maid once more and pulling her towards the lodge again. They'd already crossed over half the distance towards the log-cabin building, and Yume was excited to see what the interior looked like, now that she'd noticed it at all.

Come on, let's get inside and warm up and see if anyone there can help you - who knows, maybe there's a traveller there who has a cart of their own? Or perhaps an old...erm...carpenter? I guess...not really sure who would work on wagons, to be honest...

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 27, 2023

That woman was thoughtful even for Landers, it seemed. She was that type of person, one that even cared for data that mimicked life to perfection... Which included Magnolia herself, even if she was an UI-Locked. The way she tried to avoid revealing the truth to Magnolia made the maid soften slightly, but not enough to make her expression make even the slightest change.

"This world indeed has a lot to offer. But sometimes, it almost feel abandoned by the gods." Magnolia said, truthfully, but maybe metaphorically too. The gods were the developers, or whoever was the puppetmaster of this theatre.

Before she could voice anything, however, she was quickly dragged once again, making her suppress a gasp at how tactile the other woman was.

As they finally stood by the door, Magnolia reached her hand to knock it, waiting for a response before glancing at Yune.

"I've heard of Starcalled that can't go back to the stars once again, a consequence for their sin of being able to return from death multiple times... That doesn't scare you, madam Yume? To never be able to go back to the stars?" She questioned, wondering if the girl knew about the UI-Lock.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 27, 2023

Yume glanced up at the sky as Magnolia brought about the conversation towards one that many had feared - in fact, the reason that many had avoided this game entirely. The consequence of losing oneself to the system, entirely. Dying in the real, to live forever in the virtual.

As she glanced upwards, she saw a shimmering in the sky that seemed to stand out from the general glow that covered the remainder of the sky. A sign, perhaps. The smile that was on her face was small compared to the previous ones, and as her eyes continued looking upwards one would almost swear there was a hint of...happiness, or hope, to her expression.

At first...maybe. Returning to the world beyond would be...preferable, I guess. There's still a lot out there for me - a lot that I leave behind every time I come here. But...this place, is miraculous in it's own way. Perhaps it has been sabishī by the gods as you've said...

Her face turned downwards, locking onto the face of the maid as she continued her line of thought. There as still a distant expression to her face as she spoke - as if thinking a memory aloud, or clearly speaking thoughts that were hidden within her mind.

...but I think that they are missing out, then. This world has so much to offer...so much to give, if you just know where to look. Mayonaka no shunkan, anata no yume ga anata no shin no jōnetsu o shimeshimasu yō ni. It is the Midnight Dreams, the Mayonaka no yume, which show us what the world can truly be...every hidden crevice to be explored, every friend to be made...every new culture to be explored. The things we do not see, until we search.

She'd raised her hands in front of her, palms open and upwards in response to the old teachings. Habits that she carried over from her own heritage, without thought or consideration.

That...that is the reason that I stay here. That I come to this land, again and again...to find those Mayonaka no yume.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 27, 2023

Magnolia listened to Yume's words carefully, casting a brief glance to her lips, to the faint smile that she showed. While Magnolia didn't wish to step on a mine, she couldn't just ignore someone that, maybe or maybe not, were too innocent to simply be allowed to suffer in the danger this game could offer.

The mention of it being 'preferable' rather than something more certain made Magnolia feel a pang of concern, even if she didn't show it externally. Her eyes and face turned to look at Yume's, trying to read her emotions, trying to understand what those words meant- And to try to understand if there was any ulterior motive for the fact she was playing the game.

Tired of life, maybe? It was a dangerous mindset, one that Magnolia hoped it wasn't the case.

What she didn't expect, however, was for the woman to take a more poetic stance about what she was talking- And the way she seemed so passionate about it...

Magnolia pursed her lips, then muttering- "Midnight... Dreams..?" She questioned, frowning and leaning in. "Madam Yume, what are those..? Can..." Magnolia pondered. "Can I help-"

But before she could finish her sentence, the door opened abruptly, with a blonde youngster blinking while looking at the two of them.

"Welcome to Lala's Lakelodge, may I-"

The girl greeted, only to have her words cut short by a red haired faerin lady, that had an imposing expression and stance as she neared with a fiery brim in her eyes.

"WELCOME, BELOVED CUSTOMERS!" The faerin beamed, swiftly nearing the girl. "Mary! What are you doing?! It is the first customers in two days and you greet them all low-spirited like that?!"

"Boss, you don't even know if they are customers."

"Of course I don't know. But with your attitude, even if they are, they soon won't be! Besides, look, one of them is a maid, which means this lady here is probably filthy rich-!"

The faerin cleared her throat.

"Oh, my dear customers, please, it is way way too cold outside, please, come in~" She opened the door widely, gesturing for the two of them to enter. "It is a pleasure to see such a lovely lady, and her servant. What a shame, to see you two, shivering in cold... But don't worry, we will warm you up really quick... Maybe you need a drink? A warm one? Hmm? Hmmmmm?"

Magnolia paused to look at the two of them, glancing at Yume and bowing slightly, to sign that she should go in first before she followed along.

"A glass of water would suffice, madam." She told the faerin.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 27, 2023

Magnolia had begun to ask something, as if to clarify something that Yume had stated. Before the maid could ask anything beyond the beginnings of a thought, however, the door had burst open and given way to two very opposite individuals. Yume founds herself staring in wonder, and a slight amount of amusement at the blonde and redhaired women who clearly operated the lodge itself.

Upon being requested to enter, and almost immediately offered with goods to drink. Not that she entirely minded, the interior of the lodge itself appeared almost quaint, in a way. Not that she had time to run her eyes over it in more than a passing, before it was her turn to answer.

Bowing slighty, Yume made her request in a soft, almost hesitant voice - far more reserved than she had been just moments before.

I would appreciate a...Hottochokorēto...a heated chocolate drink...if you have one?

Her order placed, she turned her attention to the task at hand once more, realising and remembering why they had come to this place to begin with.

Uhm...actually, the reason we were here was because of my fr-my Shiriai...they ran into some trouble on the road, and apparently require some assistance. We were hoping that you would be able to help with that...

She took a half step back and bowed her head slightly, letting Magnolia's form take the front and centre position within the conversation. She had assumed that considering she knew little of the event that had occurred, it would be best to let the other speak - to provide a more accurate, detailed description of the help required.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 28, 2023

"A glass of water and a hot chocolate... Okay. I will be right back."

The girl took notes of their order before turning away, giving a concerned side glance at the two as Yume spoke about a trouble on the road.

Lala, however, didn't seem and less feverish about her customers, something that only didn't bother Magnolia as much because her attention shifted to Yume as soon as she nearly slipped a 'friend'. Were they already that close? They had barely met.

"A problem on the road, you saaay? Mind telling what it is?"

Magnolia's eyes returned to the faerin, pausing for a moment to ponder before elaborating:

"Our caravan sank its wheel in a hole we couldn't see due to the thick snow, and it broke its structure." She explained. "We were wondering if you, madam,would have someone that can remove our caravan from this predicament, and to fix it." Magnolia said.

"A broken caravan. Hmm, I will admit I won't have someone today to help you out, but I will send a message to someone that may be able to help us out tomorrow!" A small smirk then crossed her lips. "Meanwhile, you may spend the night in our Lakelodge! Since we are going to offer you a fixing service and you staying is just consequential, we may give you some discount on your stay~"

Magnolia paused, thinking deeply about it before side glancing Yume. "I suppose there is no other choice... My master doesn't like to be late, but he is wise enough to know that faring snow with a broken caravan is way too dangerous." She sighed.

"Here is your order."

The girl approached with a platter, with both the glass of water and the hot chocolate mug laying on it.

Magnolia took her glass, taking a brief sip of it before glancing at Yume. "I will escort my master then... And explain the situation to him." She said, turning to face Yume completely. "I'm very grateful for your help, madam Yume... If only I could thank you in a better way than just words." Magnolia bowed.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Feb 28, 2023

Words are more than enough, considering how recently we met...and let me assure you that it was my pleasure. You provided much lovely conversation, and accompaniment while we came to the lodge. Were it not for you, I may have missed this experience entirely.

She took her own order, carefully blowing over it before taking a sip cautiously. The aroma met with the flavour almost perfectly, far better than she had expected. Although she wasn't entire sure what she had expected, if she were being honest with herself.

If you wanted...and I'm assuming you're returning for the night, yes? I could be here for a little bit longer, if you desired more conversation. Plus, I would be very interested to see whom it was you worked for - and perhaps learn about what services they offer! You never know when you need the help of a travelling merchant, or traveller in turn...

If she were being honest, she simply wanted to spend some more time with Magnolia. Although the girl was reserved, she showed a kindness in her behaviours that Yume rather enjoyed. A pattern of behaviour that befit someone of their station, all the while hinting at something more beneath that facade.

I don't want to impose, though...so I understand if you'd prefer a night of peace and quiet. I can only imagine what sort of...experience, being stuck without transportation might be! But...if you want some peace and quiet, I understand that as well.

She gave a soft smile, letting her eyes close as she grinned at the maid. She hoped that Magnolia would want to continue their little discussions, and spend the night together - but Yume knew that sometimes people just wanted space, especially after trying times and a long day. Either way, she was prepared for the other's response.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Feb 28, 2023

The compliments, and the curious desire the woman had to talk to Magnolia, did bring the faintest of the blushes across the deadpan maid's cheeks.

"I hardly think a night of peace is antagonical to your presence, madam Yume." Magnolia said, looking at Yume, wondering what was her interest in a data such as her. Perhaps she just liked to talk to a fairly advanced AI, so impressive that it could even trick itself into a fake consciousness... Or perhaps, she had something in mind that Magnolia did not have.

Whichever was the case, Magnolia, and the fairly advanced AI copy of Petra she was, couldn't help but desire a bit more of interaction with the hen lady.

"What I mean is that I would really appreciate to have you around, and to spend this night with you, madam." She said, straightforwardly. "This said, I will be looking forward seeing you soon." Magnolia said, bowing deeply before turning away, casting one last glance before waving a goodbye and continuing her path back to her master...

"That's the place, Magnolia?" The man crossed his arms in front of the building, peering over it with his usual judging gaze. "It looks as barbaric as one would expect to be the favorite spots for adventurers. An exotic choice, for sure... And perhaps, our only one for now." He glanced to Magnolia. "Very well, introduce me to the owners."

With a bow, Magnolia obediently followed his order. "Yes, Master..." She said, pushing the door open and allowing the Master to go in first, along with the poor driver that didn't hear the end of the scold he received after the fluke with the caravan.

Magnolia was quick to introduce her Master to Lala, the owner of the Lakelodge, who was eager to try and already snatch some golds from him, by offering all her hospitality and unusual services.

While the man was occupied, Magnolia's eyes traced the surroundings, trying to find the hen lady.

Was she truly going to come to a second meeting, or was that a mere moment of Starcalled's whim. Even if it was the latter, Magnolia would understand it, and wouldn't be ungrateful either, after all, she did enjoy the small moment they had together.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Mar 1, 2023

Yume smiled over the hot chocolate as Magnolia took her time departing, giving kind words of dispatching and offering her the chance to avoid another encounter - something that Yume was disinclined to do, at least for the time being.

You shouldn't keep your master waiting, seeing as you've been away long enough...I'll await your return, at least for a while yet.

And she'd done just that, at least for a time. Nearly twenty-minutes had passed, and Yume saw no sign of Magnolia returning. She'd been within the game for a long time, and figured that there was at least the need to check on her real self, to ensure there were no concerns in the world beyond.

A quick word with the owner, a room purchased and excluded to for privacy, and Yume had logged out of the system for a few moments to ensure there were no concerns.

Her return was prompt, albeit almost another fifteen minutes later. She had returned to the room that she had rented, as if nothing had changed in the small period of time that she had been away. Something that she was content to find.

She had re-entered the main common area, just in time to find Magnolia - and whom she could only discern was the foretold master, and another - being greeted by the owners of the establishment. She waited off to the side as the group conversed, only moving when she spotted the maid glancing about, as if looking for her.

A soft wave of her hand a smile, before she approached the group. She glanced between Magnolia and the others, before deciding to allow the maid to complete the introductions, relying on her own upbringing and teaching in a world where she was at a loss for proper etiquette.

It's good to see you again, Magnolia-san. I see you found the others without worry. Watashi wa ureshī. Have you secured lodging for the evening, or assistance?

She didn't look towards the others, keeping her eyes on Magnolia as she'd always been taught to do, waiting for the maid to complete the introductory cycle itself. The entire time, she kept her small, welcoming smile on her face, simply happy to see that her companion had returned.

@Magnolia

Magnolia · Mar 1, 2023

After introducting her master, Magnolia glanced at Yume, offering her a greeting bow. "The pleasure is all mine, madam Yume." She said, then raising her eyes to the lady she had just met. "You truly had waited for me. My apologies for taking so long, but also, I am very grateful for you, madam..."

Albeit, it only made things more intriguing. That lady truly seemed of pure intentions, or her ulterior motives were strong enough for all of this effort to be worth it.

The master, after finishing his orders, approached the maid and the lady, prompting Magnolia to introduce them.

"Master, this is madam Yume. The lady I told you about." She gestured politely.

"Madam Yume, I see you are the fair lady Magnolia told me about, it is a pleasure." The man courteusly greeted her. "My name is Trevor, and you have my gratitude, for helping Magnolia to find us shelter. If there is any way for me to reward you, please let me know... Otherwise, at least allow me to pay for your stay, if you intend to." He said.

@MayoYume

MayoYume · Mar 1, 2023

Yume waited patiently as Magnolia introduced the man - Trevor - to her, before listening to his own greeting. In response, she folded her hands before herself and gave a Saikeirei, holding the deep bow for a few long seconds before straightening herself.

It is a pleasure to meet the one whom Magnolia-san serves, so diligently. I cannot speak enough the kindness she has shown me, and the care that she took in my well-being. You have earned yourself an excellent servant, indeed.

She kept her eyes on Trevor, knowing that it would be inappropriate to look away until the formalities had finished. Although she hadn't always spent time with her father's side, she had more than enough training in the culture from both sides of her family.

I thank you for the kind offer, however I've already purchased a room for the eve, and could not rightly expect you to cover another when you yourself have such a hard time already. Yoroshikuonegaishimasu, for the offer.

She glanced about the small common room, before flashing a smile and waving towards one of the tables.

If you would be so inclined, however, I have yet to have dinner...and would appreciate your company in such a fine establishment as this. Perhaps not the most...Sōdai of places in this region, but it carries a rather quaint imagery to it. And I can attest to the staff whom maintain and operate it, providing nothing but the highest levels of service to those who they entertain.

She gave a slight bow of her head towards the blonde and the Faerin girl whom operated the location, hoping that she was including them appropriately.

@Magnolia

Zera Leigh · Mar 1, 2023

White winds blew restlessly over the tarp, the material rustling with the changes in direction. Snow had begun to accumulate over it almost immediately and before long, a mound of snow sat quietly next to the lake. The slow-moving waters and gentle winds providing the only sense of movement in an otherwise still landscape. The only thing out of place was the simple rod of polished wood that jutted out from the darkness beneath the mound of snow and the near-transparent thread that was attached to it. Off in the water, a simple hand-painted wooden sphere bobbed once, then twice, before it abruptly dipped beneath the water.

The rod shifted once, the motion small but firm, it shifted again, and then a third time, while the silence was abruptly disturbed by the splashing of a defiant fish. One last yank of the rod took all the fight out of the creature and soon it was lazily being dragged up to the tarp by the fishing line, leaving a broken trail in the snow behind it. It disappeared into the shadows beneath the tarp and for a moment, all movement stopped, then the tarp rose higher and higher until it fell to the ground. Pounds of snow rising and falling as if they were naught but cotton on the shoulders of the giant that stretched his arms over his head and yawned.

Zera scratched his chest beneath the heavy coat he'd purchased the other day, a big grin on his face. He'd been fishing for a few days now and had finally managed to catch enough for his goal. He looked down at the pile of snow-frozen critters and with a quick movement bundled them up. He folded up his tarp and grabbed his backpack, throwing it and the fish over his shoulder before letting out a yawn. It was about time he got back to the lodge. He wondered how the ladies working there were doing. Hopefully they'll be happy with his haul!

"Gotta thank miss Mary for that book of poetry she let me borrow too!"

He chortled to himself delightedly, his two meters and hundreds of kilograms of muscle marching their way briskly through the snow as if the winter chill didn't bother him at all. When he finally arrived he looked up at the lodge and huffed out a contented breath. This was the life. Fishing, quiet, good food, a good book, and good company to talk to. He marched up the steps with heavy footfalls, before pushing the doors open. From the perspective of those inside, a monster had thrown the doors open and now loomed in the entry with the shadows of night and snow concealing his features. Only a pair of nearly-glowing ice-blue eyes blazed beneath a heavy hood.

He stepped inside and threw off his hood, revealing his tanned skin, golden hair, and boyish smile.

"I'm baack! WA HA HA HA! Looks like there are more guests! Not to worry! Got a big haul this time ladies! Plenty of fish to go around!"

He announced his return as uproariously as usual before making his way over to the counter and setting down the tarp before putting the fish atop it to not make a mess.

@Midnight Dreams @Magnolia