Jun 13 19:57:49 106 PA Making Unusual Friends

From Chronicles

Jun 13 19:57:49 106 PA

Kingsdale - Plaza Park

Desmond strides through the park slowly on this rain touched afternoon to be. The lunch hour nears, but the normally populous park h as cleared out mostly with the wind and rain that has whipped up. This has not given Desmond pause as he strides along one of the paths at a steady pace without added protection save for his denim garb. He's been soaked through, with the wind tugging at his hair, tendrils of it whipped up behind him carelessly. And amid it all he wears an expression of serene calm, a narrow of his eyes against the rain itself the only deviation from this.

Afternoon finds Emayn in the park again, or is it that she's never left? A long, tight black coat, zipped from shoulder to waist keeps out some of the rain, and the tails seem to make a half decent seat as she sits in the grass, looking out over a small pond. Every now and then, a rock will float her way only to be plucked from the air, and sent out towards the rippling surface of the small body of water.

Desmond's ears perk as he draws near to Ema's location. His nostrils flaring softly on instinct. That prickling sense of the supernatural. His ears flick back and forth for a moment, the brief manifestation not pinpointed, but he drags his awareness to the area around him. But his steady forward advance only briefly pauses and a few moments later the mentally active woman comes into view. His eyes move towards her, studying quietly as his advance carries her vaguely in her direction.

Ema's senses are, on the other hand, somewhere else, the world around her seeming to go unnoticed as she sits cross legged in the rain. Her own ears twitch a bit, should someone be paying attention to them, but otherwise she is the perfect mask of serenity, the stones and the pond the only objects in her little universe.

"Something vexes you." An observation offered once Desmond has drawn near to where she sits, his steady forward stride paused as he speaks. Though with a good number of meters between the two as he lingers on the path. His hands are settled in the pockets of his jacket, his calm eyes studying the woman slowly. His deep voice given just enough volume to be clearly heard.

Ema doesn't stir as another rock is pulled from the air, tumbled through her fingers, and flung to the water before her, "Hardly Vexed," she offers, "Just enjoying a little quiet time. I find the rain chases away the city folk, which I find agreeable." Her hands fold before her, elbows resting on her knees as she slowly lowers her chin to rest atop her knuckles.

"This is so," Desmond rumbles deeply in reply, his eyes lifting to scan the park's environs slowly. No other bodies in sight. "I suppose some do not enjoy the touch of the rain. Which is an odd thing." No elaboration given as his attention returns to Ema and his head is given a subtle cant. "You do not like the people of this city?"

Ema's head turns up finally, twisting a bit so that her eyes find you, "Do you, Kill Cat?" the question accusatory, her black and purple hair plastered against her face, "No, I find I can deal with them most of the time," her eyes return to the pond, "But there is something to be said for a little bit of quiet, only me and nature, no machines or factories, or the crying or laughing of spoiled children..." her shoulders shrug.

Desmond does not answer for a few moments, his eyes fixed on Emayn intently. But after those thoughtful moments pass he answers with the same even tone. "I do. There is a purity to it, as are all things natural. Primal. Simple." His eyes linger on her intently, though his expression doesn't betray an overt reaction just yet. "I can understand your thoughts. Simplicity is often something that is of allure to myself. Fortunately, it has not been hard to obtain."

"You are lucky," she almost chuckles, "Or perhaps not. I suppose most would worry about your allegiances, and give you a wide berth on that alone." a small head shake, barely enough to muss her hair, "I've found my own instincts betrayed me when I came here, or perhaps were overloaded. Now I take a few steps back, and approach the city with more caution." a small laugh, "People sure do like to meddle, though."

"If there are any who would worry, they need only ask of my prior deeds upon coming here," Desmond replies simply. "They speak for themselves." He decides to move a little closer. To a more conversational distance, yet he keeps some distance to reduce his natural loom factor. The advance slow and nonthreatening. "I do not think myself one who meddles, but I do know something of instinct and how it can mesh poorly with the social flow of a place like this. Perhaps I might share some insight, if you would elaborate on your uncertainty."

Ema grins, "I'm sure the tails of how you betrayed your creators, betrayed your reason for being would make for an interesting story, but nothing a Coalition propaganda machine couldn't fabricate." she smirks, and then laughs as you continue, a disbelieving tone to it, "Ah, no, I think I'll figure this out myself. I'm not sure what help a broken kill cat could offer," her head turns, eyes finding you again, "But I think the school of hard knocks is doing just fine, so far."

"And who are you?" Desmond is staring firmly at Emayn now. Though his expression has not changed, there is a subtle sense of displeasure in response to her words. "You know nothing of me nor my path in life, despite what you do seem to know." His tail, previously flowing in casual, automatic sways have stilled and his ears are perked forward.

"So you are not then, a Coalition experiment gone wrong? Wrong in the sense in that you no doubt greatly disappointed your creators?" her head tilts a bit as she holds your gaze, "You seem a bit old to be the result of a feral pairing, though I admit it is a possibility I did not consider." a small smile forms as she waits your reply to her first inquerry.

"I care little for them in the now," Desmond replies, his tone firm. "It no longer matters as I am free of their malign influence. But I wonder again who you are and just what it is that prompts you to act as you do towards me, a being you hardly know." His attention remains tight on the woman, his expression still showing that subtle displeasure.

"I'm just a girl, whose seen your kind in action before, and is smart enough to be afraid. Either you're a spy, a wolf among sheep, dangerous enough that," she sniffs again, eyes narrowing on you, any psionic signature she has dissapearing in a flash, "Or you've truly gone rogue, an even more frightening possibility, as, as far as I know, that isn't supposed to happen." She turns back towards the water, face lifting to let the rain fall on her face, eyes closed, "I am a survivor, i guess, and my instincts tell me you're dangerous. The Coalition is mobilized for war, and, as you say, we don't know each other."

"You have no need to fear, unless you act against me," Desmond states simply, his tone even and without overt threat. Though he does dip a hand to his thigh, casually pulling the near foot long knife that he has sheathed there at all times. Curved, perfectly shiny and without a blemish to mar it. But the weapon is deftly twirled to settle across his open palm, displayed with a lowering and tilt of his hand. "This is one of many trophies taken in acts done to defend this city at great risk." The knife does have one mark, small letters stamped on the attached hilt, not easy to read without being up close. "I co-own the Alibi and have made a place for myself here. Peace is what I seek now. Thus your instincts are, in this case, wrong."

"Spoken like a true sleeper," she says, smiling up at the sky, water cascading down her face, "I did not say you were a danger to me, merely dangerous. I assure you, in this case, my instincts are correct." her eyes open, head leaning back a bit further as she looks at you, upside down, with a grin on her lips, "I could maybe take a look, find the truth of the matter..." her voice trails off as she winks at you.

"Then do so," Desmond rumbles simply, showing no fear of her potential seeking. The knife is flipped back with a casual dexterity before sliding into its sheath squarely. He need not look to aim it. "You seem one who is entirely too paranoid. That may be the seat of your troubles. But as you wish, I shall leave that to you to muddle though. In that you are correct.. experience can teach one much, though the teaching is a often a painful thing."

Ema's aura returns as she opens herself up once more, grin becoming a smirk as she attempts to dip into your mind, "Paranoid? If a Deadboy in full armor walked down the street, would you just assume he's an OK guy, and no threat to you?" she shrugs, "I think you'd be a bit curious, maybe even a bit cautious. After all, Most deadboys are in the Coalition, as are, I dare say, Most Kill Cats."

"And most dog boys, yet there are many in this city. Those who have thrown aside the lie of their creators," Desmond returns without a blink. "So too, many make use of modified Coalition armor who have never been amongst them. DO you judge them all before knowing them as a potential threat?" He cants his head slightly and wonders, "But you may go forth and question who you desire. You may even question me, if you so desire."

"I only question those who approach me, there are very very few true coincidences," she chuckles, almost a snicker, "But you modify what I asked to suit your own sense of moral superiority. I asked about a true Dead boy, not a Modified suit. Modified at least implies the wearer is aware of the stigma that exists, even if you want to deny it." she grins up at you, "We've met before, you and I, though you clearly do not remember. There was a Dogboy you were with, and I, with a bit too much to drink, let my bias slip. You chastised me, if I remeber." a giggle, "Dog boys are different, though, passive, pets, non-threats. You are something all together different."

"Yes, I am a thinking being who has taken his life from those who would exploit it," Desmond rumbles in steady reply. "I find more fulfillment in art and reading than I ever did before coming to be here." His head cants slightly again. "I would be curious of someone who would walk through this city in unmodified armor. I would be certain that no true Coalition member could so brazenly enter the city without being shot on sight. Thus I would wonder why such a person would risk wearing so inflammatory a suit of armor when there are better alternatives available. I would not automatically assume they are the real thing, unless their actions gave hint to that much. Every individual deserves to be given a chance to show themselves for who they are. And you are more than 'just a girl'."

Ema laughs, her psi powers flaring to life as belled earrings ring out in accompaniment. She looks up at you and winks, "Well thanks for noticing," a teasing smile on her lips as a residual chuckle shakes her, her hand coming up to smooth wet hair back behind her ears, "I think though, that you're mincing words, which is fine. If it walks like a duck, and it talks like a duck..." she shrugs at you, "I'm not completely off base, anomolies are worth taking note of, you're training is still present, and you know that while I'm rough around the edges, the root of what I'm saying has merit, and makes sense. To assume you are a playful kitten would be infinetly more foolish than to assume you are a killer. Safer too."

"I asked no such thing of you," Desmond replies, his expression remaining firm. "I was trained to kill. And like any good warrior, I maintain my skills. When roused to fight, I am deadly in my way. As are many in this city." He lifts a hand, lightly placing it against his chest. "I only request that you not leap to conclusions." He turns then, his profile turned towards her as she adds, "And I will do the same."

"But if you were to make assumptions about me, what would they be?" she grins still, the question posed with mirth and curiosity, "Surely you're sense are not dulled, and you have some opinion that you're that you find yourself surpressing." she smiles still, eyes on you as her psi goes silent once more.

"I have expressed my own assumptions about you. "That you are paranoid. I could also assume you are one of two things. A sleeper yourself or one who fears the Coalition and those things that come of it." Desmond shakes his head slightly. "But such speculations are a futile thing, without basis in fact. Just as your own are not based on anything more than speculation and personal bias. Either way, so long as you do not tamper with what is not yours to tamper with, your path matters little to me."

"Oh? And who decides what is mine to tamper with? Should it be your morality? Or perhaps mine? Or the Coalitions?" her head shakes and she lets out a surprisingly pleasant laugh, "Everyone here is the same, so black and white, "My morality and rules should apply to everyone"." she turns her attention back to the water before her, "You are all so much like the Coalition in your assuredness that there is only one way to look at things. Yet I'm the odd duck." she waves a hand dismissively at you, her back still turned, "Enjoy your moral superiority, and leave me to my petty musings, then."

"Again you assume," Desmond states, looking towards Emayn. "I do not begrudge you your path, nor any other their own. Life is lived by individuals who seek differing things within the span if it. But everyone has those things they would not see tampered with by others. Even you." He pauses, considering a moment before he opines, "You also seem to think yourself so very persecuted. Now it is you who twist my words when I have spoken most generally."

"I only want people to say what they mean, and not hide behind bullshit and subjective comments." she snaps back at you, "I would not presume my morality applies to you, which is why I asked, yet you dodge and play around the issue, avoiding a question."

Desmond turns towards Ema and steps close then, his eyes fixed on her intently. "Very well. I hold some things deeply precious in this existence. Those who would disrupt those things have everything to fear from me. But beyond that, I am no judge. I have my opinions, but they are mine alone. I do not know where you come from, but it is obvious enough that you too hide things. You've avoided my own questions, but I understand that all have their secrets. Thus I would let you hold yours without prying." He pauses then and wonders, "Is there anything further you would question and gain a clear answer for?

Desmond turns towards Ema and steps close then, his eyes fixed on her intently. "Very well. I hold some things deeply precious in this existence. Those who would disrupt those things have everything to fear from me. But beyond that, I am no judge. I have my opinions, but they are mine alone. I do not know where you come from, but it is obvious enough that you too hide things. You've avoided my own questions, but I understand that all have their secrets. Thus I would let you hold yours without prying." He pauses then and wonders, "Is there anything further you would question and gain a clear answer for?

Another chuckles, "No no, I think i got it, don't mess with some nebulous things not worth mentioning. I gotcha, much safer and easier to let me assume, though you yourself find such behaviours distasteful." she shakes her head, "ANd I can't help but notice you didn't ask me a question. Though perhaps you assume you did, somewhere in that maze of words you so delicately constructed." a small laugh, her body stretches out, feet before her, arms planted behind her in the wet grass as she leans back, head tilting to look at you upside down again, "I've never met anyone who was so afraid of getting to the damn point. I sure hope you don't fight like you speak."

"There are three things. The Alibi, My Aimee and Kesslan," Desmond states simply. "Damage done to any of those will be meted back." He shakes his head slightly, arms lifting to cross over his chest. "And I asked my question some time ago. Who you were. Who I am is simple. A free being who is exploring a life of his own making and, as noted before, finding peace to be more fulfilling than war. So I shall ask you again, if you might finally give a true answer. Or you may continue to hold your secrets. Who are you?"

"Was that so hard? We don't have to go around and around" she says, her hands lifting as she falls back, legs shooting up and over and she pushes out again with her hands, propelling herself to her feet, "I'm just a girl, lost in the big city." she smirks at you as she adjusts her long coat which billows out just below her hips, "though if I were to assume..." a wicked grin, "You really mean who have i been, or who was I." she takes a second to push her hair back again behind her ears, "I was a hired gun, I'd guess you'd say." her hand rises and points towards you, forefinger and thumb outstretched gun like before she mimes the hammer falling with her thumb, "Now, I'm just a girl."

"Very well," Desmond replies simply. Whether or not he believes her words is left to the winds, his tone lingering in that firm neutrality. Though the palpable sense of displeasure fades. "A mercenary, then. A path many walk, one that I did briefly, but no longer. What do you besides that? Hobbies.. those things you do for amusement."

"I read, mostly, as of late," she says, smirking still, "Date, occassionally. I like to keep in shape, though not sure that qualifies as a hobby?" she looks up, seeming to consider it, "I guess it does amuse me, so we'll count it. Most recently though, I just try to stay out of trouble, though i've been in the market for work, which is surprisingly hard to find here." She shrugs, her face signaling that that is all she has to offer."

"Maintaining oneself is a responsibility for any who would deal in the trade of war," Desmond opines, his eyes lingering more casually on Ema. "Just as weapon is cleaned and maintained, so too goes the body and mind. Reading is a thing that I have found most intriguing and still do, now that I have learned it. The variety of works is impressive and the library here a favorable resource." He pauses a moment, then adds, "So too I find curious fulfillment in paths I had not anticipated before. Art and cooking the foremost."

"Who'd have thought." she says, a bit of surprise showing through her amusement, "Cooking even." a chuckle, "Wonders never cease. And a owner of a Bar, of all things. How the hell did you end up here?" head shaking once more now, "I bet thats a bit of a story."

"I have found that one cannot predict what will come," Desmond responds. "My experiences have made that much clear. Though in truth cooking is an activity like any other. It requires a certain focus and dedication. A precise knowledge of measurements and spans of time, though an instinct for when to ignore the structure of a recipe or improvise it to improve. Obvious not all think of it in such serious terms. Know you how to cook?"

"Not really, its too forumlaic for me. Like math." she shrugs, hands reaching behind her head to grab her hair. Her head tilting back as she slowly wrings it out. "Well prepared food certainly appeals to me, but it's usually easier to just eat out." she smiles, "How did you pick cooking as something to learn? Pick it out of the blue?" her head tilts, eyebrow arching as she seems to look you over.

"It has rules.. structures, but there is also improvisation." Desmond clarifies. "In books I have read, many created foods were formed from improvisation and intuition. Breaking the rules and doing new things." There is a brief, thoughtful pause before he adds, "I had always known the basics of cooking. Aimee taught me to look past the needs of simple fuel to see the art that is in cooking. The crafting and presentation both parts of the whole." It's about noontime and the park is mostly empty, the wind and rain of the day chasing many off to dryer places. Though Des stands without protection beyond his denim garb.

Ema too pays no regard to the rain, her long black coat cinched up tight as water seems to stream off it, past bare legs and sandled feet, "Cooking requires one be in one place for a while, and aquire alot of stuff. Having too much stuff, i've found, makes it harder to pick up leave when you have too. My job has always took me places in a hurry, so my hobbies tend to be a bit more...mobile." she smirks, offering another shrug to the big cat.

Braving this weather with seemingly no mind to it is a young teenage man, though some would probably be more likely to call him still a boy. Especially given his fine features, unsually silky hair and almost angelic like apperance. Which clashes rather noticeably with his worn and heavily used clothing. Sitches here and other obviously mark where the sometimes nearly threadbare clothing has been mended time and time agian. His movements however seem fairly aimless, the boy staring out at the world in wonder through startingly vivid yellow eyes.

"Elaborate cooking, yes," Desmond agrees. "But there are simple ways.. perhaps I could show you some time. Cooking simple meals in the field is where I began. But even there one can find expression. Though you could also look into art. A varied field where too one can find the elaborate and the simple and where there are no rules, save what one chooses to accept for their own.." He pauses, ears flicking outward, nostrils flaring softly. Senses tingling.

Ema can't help but look at the cat with a tiny hint of suspicion, her smile giving way to slightly purses lips, if only for a moment, "Perhaps." she offers, no large commitment there, "I'll stop by the Alibi, some time, and we can talk about it more." she looks around, smile once more beaten back, "Its getting late, though, and i've been in the rain for a while, and would very much like to get warm, I think." she hmms softly, turning to walk away, but spins halfway back, "Nice talkin to you, Desmond." she smirks, and turns back to walk away.

In this desolate wasteland of a lovely park devoid of people but still pretty in its it's own right, Sarik would be a little hard pressed to miss the rather large form of Desmond. And, the boy never having seen quite such a creature is instantly drawn near like a moth to flame. "Whoooaaa cooool!" He exclaims as he rushes over only to practically skid to a stop near the large feline. "What are you? Do you live here?Canyoutalk?Doyouhaveclawslikeanormalcat?"

Desmond simply nods towards Emayn, a touch distracted for a moment before he focuses on her again. "As you wish. Farewell." Nodding again, this time with more focus on the discreet parting act itself. Of course, then he's assaulted quite suddenly by a young and energetic individual. The quick approach prompts a discreet, partially disguised step back and a deep furrow of the big cat's brow as he digests the rapid questioning carefully. "Be calm," he rumbles to the end of the speeding series of question. "I am what you see and yes, I do live in this city. And I do have claws, yes." Innocent questions that he answers, more or less, honestly.

With those questions so readily answered, though his gaze is still a currions one Sarik seems to be brought up short of questions for a brief moment before he can come up with yet more questions to ask. He can be noticably seen to take in all that information like a sponge however before his tone calms down a little "What are you?" he asks then all of a sudden. There's no harshness to his tone. "I've seen things like you before but..not. They were like.. dogs or something." "The principal is the same," Desmond replies. "They are creations of the Coalition and so am I, though I have since broken away from their sway." His stance relaxes some and he squares his stance, hands linking behind his back. "But you may call me Desmond," he adds, head dipped slightly along with that introduction. "You are?"

"Sway.. like a tree sways in the wind? I dont understand this expression." Sarik complains slightly, though not in any sharp tone as to be annoying. Though it's clear that this lack of understanding some how deeply fustrates him all of a sudden. "I..do not yet understand this language fully." he admits at last. "What do you mean by sway?" the request delivered in a somewhat demanding tone. "As to me. I am Sarik the Great! Destroyer of worlds!"

A brow lifts at Sarik's introduction. It might be obvious that Desmond doesn't buy the embellishments, but he doesn't bother countering the assertions. "In this moment, 'sway' means influence. The Coalition used to command me. But I have left them and they no longer tell me what to do. I am no longer under their sway." Pausing then to see if this is enough.

Sarik ohhhhhs.. there is thankfully some pause and respite from the questions for Desmond then as Sarik can clearly be seen to be making various connections. Indeed it seems to spark off quite a string of thoughts as he actually falls silent for more than a mere two seconds. Still, he finds more to throw Desmond's way eventually. "The Coalition.. those are the ones with the steleton armor stuff right?"

Desmond allows the youth to consider. And in the same moment he studies the young one, his brow furrowed . Curious in his own right at what his senses tell him, though he decides to refrain from pursuing that line just yet. "You are correct. A fitting motif for those who mean so much ill to so many." Pausing there, curious at what path the young one might yet take.

"I dont like them." Sarik says after another moment of thought. "Their mean and wont let me have fun." that last bit sounding akin to a petulent child. But that moment dissipates quickly as he perks up again "But there are none here right? I saw some.. somewhere ways..." he blinks a moment before pointing in a totally random direction "That away!.. in some town place."

"There should be no members of the Coalition here. Many like to make use of their armor, however. Likely that is what you saw," Desmond responds steadily. He and Sarik are standing out in the midst of the park, speaking. The rain falls and the wind blows this noon, but Desmond ignores the inclement weather, despite that he is only clad in his denim.

Rain, rain, and more rain. As much as he dislikes the precipitation, Leonard is out and about, entering the park beneath the portable cover of his large black umbrella. There is no haste in his steps as they take him over one of the paths deeper into the park.

"I think I like you!" The youth suddenly declares with much enthusiasm. "Your not bad for a cruurrrreature!" a not so subtle way of him covering up catching himself about to say something entirely different. A brief pause then as he regards Desmond with those vivid yellow eyes of his, such an odd colour for a human "Will you be my friend?"

Desmond does seem not quite sure what to make of Sarik in the wake of his words. The big male regarding him thoughtfully for a few moments before he nods his head once. "Very well, I will be your friend," he confirms. "However, for the moment I must away. My walk has run overlong and I must return home and dry myself before other matters are attended to." He dips his head towards the youth and adds, "I help to run the Alibi, in the Northern Dregs if you have need to find me. I am likely to be there."

Leonard's hand lifts in a casual gesture of greeting to one conspicuous feline as he nears the conversing pair. It could also serve as a parting wave, given the last few words that Leonard catches. "Afternoon..." His verbal greeting is slightly elongated to include the familaiar farmboy. "It appears everyone is out enjoying the wonderful weather." Some wit is present, likely directed towards the disgorging clouds.

Sarik seems oddly completely undistrubed by the weather, though it's clear his hair and clothes are practically soaked at this point. However he does not seem to note Leonard with any degree of familarity for a few moments before responding "Oh! Your that guy that was with that girl like.. a while back!"

"Greetings," Desmond rumbles to Leonard as the man gives his own greetings. Another nod to speaking of the weather before he looks towards Sarik at his own greeting for the human mage. "If you will both excuse me. Enjoy your day, however you spend it." His eyes passing between the two before he turns and starts to walk away steadily.

"Yes," Leonard confirms for Sarik with a growing smile of bemusement, "and you're the one who converses with bears, as I recall." A brief nod in farewell is given to the desparting Desmond before he continues the conversation with the agricultural technician of dubious nature. "Did you enjoy your venture into the Dregs?"

Sarik turns to watch Desmond go a moment before he declares to Leonard "Be right back!" before rushing over towards Desmond in an attempt to give the Kill Cat a supprisngly powerful, indeed nearly crushing hug "Thanks!" is all he'll say before running back over to Leonard with a slightly bouncy disposition. "Oh.. it was ok. There's alot of not nice people there."

The hug is unexpected, the big male's brow creased as he receives it without much return. Well, there will be a pat on his shoulder, but in the end Desmond nods and rumbles in reply, "You're welcome," before he turns to continue on his way.

Leonard arches a brow at Sarik's sudden, brief aside, then the other at the enthusiastic embrace. Both remain lifted as he watches the youth's return. "Apparently, you've found the nice people elsewhere, but the Dregs is not know for being pleasant, no. Not the best place to seek friends, or offer hugs."

"I know that!" Sarik responds derisively "I just wanted to see what it was like was all. It's so different from the rest of this place. Sides, I only hugged Desmond cause he was nice to me and is my bestest friend in the world!"

"Ah, well I'm glad to hear that you've made friends." Leonard looses a chuckle at the enthusiasm. "What brings you to this comparatively fine city? I can't say that I've seen you before that night amidst the rubble, not that I'm acquainted with every one, of course." He is acquainted with at least one other, however, made evident by the arrival of a dark and rather damp raven. It slows its descent with a flutter of feathers to alight upon Leonard's shoulder beneath the umbrella. Unfortunately, this also spatters Leonard with some of that shedding water, and provokes a look of annoyance from man to bird.

Sarik studies the bird somewhat critically as it arrives, the boy lightly 'prodding' with his senses to see if there is, as he suspects some sort of magical nature about the bird that may indicate a familar. "I dunno.. this seemed like a nice place to stop for a while." the youth says, shifting those vivid yellow eyes to stare at Leonard. Oddly even sopping wet by this point, the youth still seems to be hard pressed to ever actually look even remotely half bad. "Kinda new here..." he admits after a brief moment. "Sides they had all sorts of spiffy magical things! ANd other things I've not seen before and.. umm.. they didnt shoot at me like others did."

Leonard nods, noting the shift in Sarik's attention to his fine, feathered friend. "He doesn't bite, if you're wondering, although he is curious of whether you do." The bird that is far more than a simple animal returns the intent study in kind, peering with its own ebon orbs. "Regretably, there are many whose first response to anything they don't understand is to open fire. It is quite frustrating, to say the least. I've been shot at, myself, as magic is one topic that most of the trigger-happy are often ignorant of."

The mention of magic clearly catches Sarik's attention like none other before.. except perhaps also the mention of candy and other sweets of course. "I suppose that's true.." he says sounding a little cautious at this point. "Though, I must admit I wish knew about the arcane arts." he frowns then in reconsideration of his words "Or more to the point of spellcraft itself."

"I think you've come to the right city, then, if you're curious of magic." Leonard gives the man, whom he has every reason to suspect is more than such, a smile. "There is no shortage of those adept in spellcraft, in varying forms and focus, myself included. I am Leonard," he offers his own introduction before motioning to his corvid companion, "and this is Edgar."

Sarik clearly of course however would never, ever be more than he appears. Ever! He's just that good at hiding what he is.. yup yup! "I am Sarik the Great! Destroyer of WORLDS!" He offers in enthusastic exchange of names. Of course such childish claims can only be made by one who's both young and ignorant. Not to mention it doesnt really sound like he has any true belief in holding such a title beyond the mere fancy of a child.

A brow arches somewhat at the appelation, but Leonard takes the boisterous claim by tone rather than word. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Sarik. Well, so long as you aren't too eager to destroy /this/ world, at least." His smile remains , and even curls further. "If you're curious of other worlds, though, I'm sure that I can arrange a visit."

Sarik nahhhs "This world is interesting enough for now. I'm sure by the time I get bored of it and decide to destroy it I'll have no problems finding my way to othere more interesting places!" There's a certain degree of childish claim to that statement, but.. there's some odd underlying certainty to it as well. At the very least the lad most certainly has some releatively strong magical and psionic potential, notable to those able to sense such things. "Sides.. was kinda hoping to learn a few new tricks first..." he says sounding a touch crest fallen.

"I do hope it holds your interest for a great while, in that case." Leonard doesn't refute his claims, but isn't about to encourage them, either. "What tricks might those be? You seem to know far more than appearances imply. I assume that is intentional?" He motions to the youth's choice of apparel.

"Welll... I guess it will." Sarik conceds with a slightly petulant tone, though there's no real sense of an actual desire to destroy the world in his tone, nor was there ever really. However at Leonard's question the blinks a little and gives the man a currious look, with one then shortly thereafter directed at the man's familar. "Nah... people just think I'm stupid cause I'm young is all..." he says "I mean yeah ok there is alot I dont know but that dont mean I'm stupid."

Leonard shakes his head. "Oh, I don't think you're stupid, Sarik. Curious about many things, ignorant of the finer aspects in many matters, but not stupid. In many ways, you and Edgar have much in common. Wouldn't you agree?" His question is directed to the one at his shoulder, and a response is given from the same. "Potentially more in common with myself than you, Leonard, as I am certainly not stupid, either." In addition to the very non-avian timbre, there is a mild note of disdain.

Sarik ooooohhhs "It talks!" again that youthful exuberance returns. "Thats cool!" as so many things are by his measure apparently. "I wonder if he tastes of magic though if you eat him..." he then looks to Leonard "Have you ever eaten a talking bird before? Do they taste of magic and squishy goodness?"

"It does," Leonard chuckles at the observation, then cannot help but smirk at the musing and questions, "and I wouldn't know how he tastes. That is a curiosity that he's had of others, though, so I hope the two of you aren't planning to bite one another. Someone is liable to take offense."

Sarik psshaawws "Im not scared by some lame talking bird!" he challenges, staring at the familar as he says it. Though he soon enough looks back to Leonard. "Buuuuuttt anyway. We were talking bout magic right!?" the subject is apparently one the youth enjoys greatly as it seems to thus far be the only subject he keeps enough attention for to go back to. "Can you teach me anything cool?!?"

Leonard's smirk grows to a bemused grin at the challenge and subsequent shift in topics, while Edgar remains silent at the provocation. "Possibly, but that would depend on what you consider cool. My particular studies and knowledge are primarily of other beings, other worlds, but I do know other tricks." Which may well explain his own curiosity of Sarik.

Sarik ohhhs.. "Well.. just bout anything really." Sarik admits, finally being forced to face the sad realization that his magical talents are.. presently somewhat lacking. "I mean I can do some basic stuff..." he says conjuring up a Globe of Daylight. "But notthing really cool like a forcefield or something useful."

"All have their respective talents, Sarik," The conjuration draws Leonard's full attention and his smirk relaxes to a pleasant smile, "and must begin somewhere. You consider that basic, but I've yet to learn that, myself. I do know an invocation or two you might find interesting, though." As one hand points to the sphere of light, his other gestures with a word of Dragonese. Per Sarik's suggested example, a dome of energy coalesces about them both.

There's a definate sense of interest at the dome being brought into existance, one hand fearlessly reaching out to touch it, and a far more considerate gaze given towards Leonard. There's also something distinctly inhuman about the eyes now. It's difficult to pin down but it would be obvious to anyone seeing such a look. Still, the youthful enthusiasm remains, hinting that perhaps it's not a mere obvious act that it may seem like to most. "Perhaps a trade then?" he asks in fluent Dragonese/Elvish though even there there is an obvious almost child like expression of the words. A certain.. giddiness and a hint of a lack of control that most would have in making a more serious offer. "I understand this is the way your kind does things." finally a more blatant admission that no.. he's not human, what ever he actually is.

The enthusiasm appears shared, if Leonard's tone and smile are any indication, although it is intrigue as apposed to giddiness. He responds in the same tongue, although the limits of physiology and study do mar his pronunciation. "It is considered polite to offer an exchange, and I would be glad to share knowlede. I am curious as to how your kind does things, myself." The fact of Sarik's nature was already suspect, so the quasi-admission is hardly a surprise. From Leonard's own words, it would not likely be a negative even if it were.

"That fact had... admittedly had to be explained to me by.. some angered parties in a place called Tolkeen." Sarik says softly, and there's a certain degree of.. unease as he mentions the place. That childlike cockiness dissapearing a moment, a clear indication he'd run into something that he's all too well aware was far greater than he. Or at least some one. "Though I do not understand why you all seem to value these little.. pieces of things called..." there's a frown as he cant think of a proper term in his, apparently native tongue and switches mometnarily back to english "'Credits'"

"They make trading easier, I suppose." Leonard rolls his shoulders, still speaking in his non-native words with the simplistic explanation. The mention of Tolkeen does evoke his own, momentary unease, and he shifts the topic with question. "What else would you care to know, Sarik? I will share what I can, in the hopes you might aid with my own curiosity." A somewhat belated gesture evaporates the field about them before he notes, "We can speak elsewhere, if you prefer."

Sarik bounces the globe of daylight abit in a thoughtful manner before dismissing in turn, though he seems to at least take clear momentary enjoyment playing with the spell like a yo-yo. "I am fine here as anywhere." the boy says in response to that, his head tilting slightly to one side as he gives Lonard an odd look, as if it does not occur to him that most people would be uncomfortable standing about in rainy weather all day.

Leonard is not especially surprised by this, but he does have his umbrella, at least. He finds amusement in the play with the globe and chuckles. "Very well. Other than the rain and magic, what else do you, or your kind, enjoy, Sarik? You seem to know mine better than I know yours, as I am not even sure what kind you even consider yourself." The question couldn't be witheld, and his interest is readily apparent.

"Oh, I suppose others do not enjoy it as I do. And I'm sure in time I shall be of the same mind as they. But for now.. for now it's all such a wonderfully new experience!" Sarik responds, the youths tone growing more enthusiastic towards the end. "As to what I am..." he winks "Thats a secret!" There's a slight giggle at that, as if he takes some ammusement in it, playing with that information like a game.

Of course it wouldn't be so easy. Leonard smirks at the witholding of secrets, but not harshly so. "I understand, but I had to ask, as I like to discover new things, myself. Not everything can be a secret, of course, or no one would ever share anything, such as our exchange. Everyone would become quite bored, I think."

Sarik readily acknowledges such wisdom "Yeah! Thats true.. but .. umm.." the youth fidgets slightly as he clearly tries to explain an experience without tipping his hand too much. "Umm. Ted! Yeah.. uhh I'll call him Ted. Ted toldmeIshouldkindakeepsomethignssecret." he babbles out quickly as he scratches at the back of his head in an entirely sheepish manner. "Said it would not be.. a good idea to tell everyone cause then bad people would want to try and hurt me."

"Ted was right to warn you." Leonard admits as he considers Sarik, his smirk inverting to a frown. "There are people like that and they've tried to hurt me, as well." He pauses briefly to shake his head and dismiss whatever thought was prompted. His lips don't quite make it back to a smile, but the frown does leave. "There are less people like that here than elsewhere, but they still exist."

"Yeah... it was also nice of him not to eat me!" Sarik adds quite happily. Oddly however there seems to be no hint that he's kidding in that statement, as light hearted as it may be. Certainly this boy creature has not been hanging around with your usual crowd of people to say the least. "I should try to find some nicer clothes at some point though.. but Ted said I should stick to simple ones for a while untill I learned not to rip them all the time..."

Leonard arches a brow at that admission, but can't argue the logic. "That was nice of him. I can help you in acquiring better clothes, if you wish. Maybe some that won't rip so easily. How do you tear them?" He quickly adds, with a mixed grin, "Or is that a secret, too?"

Sarik errmmms "I dunno! I just.. do. Often!" he admits a little sheepishly. "Ted said I dont take care of them enough and that I should be more careful.. cause their like.. not as strong.. or something." he says, seemingly forgetting for the moment that he really shouldnt be talking about these things. But he's so caught up in having some one to actually talk to like this. "I just.. kinda forget about them at times."

Yes, Leonard's mental notepad is merrily scribbling as he chuckles. "I understand. I'm sure that we can find you something you'll like. Several changes, even, just in case they become torn. Would you like to do that? We could also speak of magic further, or maybe you're hungry for something other than Edgar?" He hesitates slightly at his last offering, belatedly realizing that a generic inquiry of food could prove unwise.

"I already ate a few days ago. Dont really feel hungry right now." Sarik responds with an entirely too casual a tone, as if it did not occur to him that most people have to eat several times a day. He then giggles a little "Hee hee.. that farmer was sooooo mad! He was all like 'Hey you! Get away from there!' and I was all like 'Rawr! Come and stop me' and then he totally ran away sreaming in the funniest way I've ever seen!"

"Oh?" Leonard looks him over appraisingly. "You don't look especially scary to me. Or were you just loud?" A lifted brow and a mild tone of challenge accompany his words.

"What? No of course not silly!" Sarik exclaims "I just kinda like.. I umm..." he trails off realizing he's revealing too much again. "I turned into a really big scary monster thing and went roaaaaar! ANd he's like Spirits save me! And he ran away in the silliest way I've ever seen! Even that one time I got mad and ate this one guy who wouldnt give me what I wanted and all the other people were like Oh no! Run for your lives!"

Leonard lets out a short laugh. "That /would/ tend to send people running away, I'd think. Especially the eating. It can be fun to scare, but be careful they don't get mad and come running back with weapons."

Sarik wellls "Yeahhh.. one time I landed in this village and was all like Rawr! Fear me! And ate a few people.. but then these other guys on these horses were like.. NOOoooo you cant dooo that!" He snorts a little "And then they used these glowy swoerd thingies and chased me around and shot at me... and then beat me up and said I wanst allowed to do that anymore or they'd kill me."

"Most people don't appreciate being eaten," Leonard notes, with mild amusement, even, "or watching others eaten. It sounds as if you've learned that. All still need to eat, of course."

Sarik bahs "If people were not supposed to be eaten then they wouldnt be so squishy!" he whines "And crunchy and tastey and stuff!" ironically of course he seems to speak to Leonard, who is exactly one of such beings as if he were not. A good sign? Or a bad one? It's hard to say at times, certainly he seems to have yet to develop much regard for other beings either way. "Though I suppose some are ok.. one gave me candy!"

Leonard does pause to consider his statement, a counter-argument, or possibly running, himself. In the end, he simply offers, "I hope that you would not eat friends, at the least. All the more reason for me to wish to be yours, as I don't think I'd enjoy a role as food."

Sarik eyes Leonard, as if seriously considering the question. Indeed, he keeps on considering it for a rather uncomfortable period of time before finally giving a slight shrug "Nah, I guess not. You've been nice to me like Desmond, so I -guess- we can be friends." the tone slightly sulky at that, but it picks up again "Sides you said you'd teach me some magic stuffs!" and that, is ever so cheerful and happy a tone. Like a child being offered a sweet. "Guess.. guess I cant do that if I eat you."

"I will," Leonard nods, and his smile now fully returns, "and I couldn't do that from inside your stomach. It would be my privilege to be your friend. I can help you, you can help me, and we both can learn and experience new things." He glances upwards at the rain. "Hopefully, the weather will be more cooperative in the future."

Sarik nods "Cool! Yayyyy new friends!" he says enthusiastically before going to sweep Leonard up in an equally crushing hug to the one he gave Desmond. Not enough to kill, though it's possible he'll actually leave abit ofa bruise about Leonard unless the man is wearing armor. "Oh.. I gotta run!" he then declares "Or else I'm gonna turn into a pumpkin!" and with that he's off,jumping and skipping a ltitle bit.. before suddenly turning into a large bird in the space of a few seconds and flying off.. forgetting to take his clothes with him as he crawls out of them and takes wing...