songerein | fifth shot ⊗ open february log

Entry tags:

fifth shot ⊗ open february log

Who: Anyone!
Which: Open February Log
Where: Various; Around Reverein; Corgi Tree
What: Building a dog training course; witch's brew herb gathering; spider thread traps
Warnings: None

⊗ a: dog park planning

[1. Seeking Assistance. Early in the month, Eustace will send out a quick journal message seeking assistance in building a training course for the dogs. He's also realizing he's been mostly posting about them... Well whatever.]

I'm currently looking into creating a designated area for the dogs to play and train in—something similar to a dog park. One will be in town while the other will be by the Corgi Tree. I've already scoped out a suitable location and while I should manage, if anyone is familiar in basic construction, I would appreciate the assistance. I'm also looking to acquire suitable materials, such as barrels, ramps, poles. Information of where I could procure some will be more than enough.

— Eustace

[2. Dog Park in the Making. Although he's doing this in both places, in town he can be found in one of the empty clearings around the Plaza, not too far from the Residential area. It's out of the way and quiet...or it usually is, but right now there are several dogs—both Flowers and Corgis—running around as he tries to plot something out.]

...Hm... A ramp could go here... And a tunnel over there...? —Hey, Del, stop dragging that wood!

[As he's trying to sketch something out in his journal, he has to tersely shout at the Flower pup who has decided to snatch one of the temporary poles Eustace had gotten and is dragging it around. The others are quick to make a game of it and start chasing the mischievous pup over some of the makeshifts ramps and barrel tunnels that Eustace had temporarily placed as he tries to get a feel of how it should look.]

Tsk... At least it seems to be working... ...—!?

[And before he can stop them, they rush out of the clearing boundary and run right towards whoever is passing by at that moment. Hope that person doesn't mind getting barreled into.

For anyone who may volunteer to help they can already be there or this could be their greeting.]

⊗ b: quest 202: witch's brew apothecary

[Ever since he heard about this from Tenn, Eustace has been wondering how the development was going and will stop by the apothecary to first meet with Tenn. Afterwards, upon receiving the rest of herbs he'll head out into the forest. Fortunately most of the names he recognized, but he has a bit of a cheat.]

Bri, Aerona, time to put your skills to the test.

[The two female corgis respond differently, with Briallen giving an indignant huff as she slowly paws the snow and Aerona more excited, the nub of her tail wagging nonstop. With the two dogs he'll head into the forest, both of them working hard to sniff out and if necessary dig out the listed ingredients.

Should they encounter someone, it'll be Aerona who will excitedly run up to them with a cheerful bark and hop in front. Should he already be partnered with someone, he'll just tell them to hang back.]

Let them do their work. It's been a while for them, but they should be able to get the job done.

[Despite this being the first real test, he seems very confident in them.

Bonus: If want a little spice, running into any of the native Wildland creatures while trying to gather the herbs can be done! Or they accidentally fall into some hole or cave, lot of shenanigan opportunities. Can also have the spider thread traps appear here as well.]

⊗ c: quest 206: spider thread traps

[1. Dispersing the traps. After learning about the leftover traps, Eustace is quick to venture out to try and find and clear them out. He had considered bringing one of the dogs, but he doesn't want them to get entangled so they're left behind.

Upon finding a trap, he'll try to either disengage it or cut through the threads, a bit impressed at their durability. He'll then cut through other parts ensuring the simple rigging is completely dismantled.]

...That should do it.

[He'll then proceed to gather and coil the threads along with anything else and shove them in a large satchel he wears on his back. He fully plans to try and find as many as he can so he'll be out there for a while.

2. Helping the Snared. Of course, it's not always easy. Sometimes he'll run into a trap that's managed to trap a small creature like a rabbit, sometimes a fox. It means his usual method won't work so he has to think of another way...

...Which is difficult. His knife is sharp enough to cut the thread, but it's tough so it's not a quick process. And the knife...well needless to say it would make any small creature nervous, and as a result it will start squirming, causing the trap to tighten.]

Whoa, easy—

[Really, really wishing he knew how to talk to animals right now— Just another thing on his list.

If he runs into someone else he might have gotten caught, he'll help them out. He also won't be opposed to working with anyone he might come across.]

⊗ d: wildcard

Not mentioned in the prompts but can be done are Road Repair, Rock Candy Crystals, and Cupid's Arrow. He can either be around to help deal with problematic arrows, be a target, or be a target of someone's affections. Feel free to hit me up on discord, PM, or

laenavesse for questions or further discussion!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[...They aren't chocobos, but it doesn't take Beatrix very long to realise she doesn't exactly dislike them. She isn't sure she'd have a whole gaggle of them, but maybe one... wouldn't be so awful.

At Eustace's explanation, the crease in her brow deepens just a touch, as if she doesn't quite understand.]

How did you come to be in such a position? This seems rather deliberate as opposed to something you... merely fell into.

[Ha ha ha ha. There's a wry grin at that before he reaches down to scratch behind the ears of a few who come up to him.]

For some it's rather similar...

[He then nods to the one in her arms.]

Iris and her family I found in town, by the riverbank. With a young girl we took them back here to the neighborhood and I set up a home for them. However, I don't legally claim them as mine—they are free to roam as they wish and should they choose someone to live with, they are free to do so.

As for the corgis—[He crouches down to more affectionately ruffle the floof of one of them.] They were living in a magical tree that seems to have been brought into this world. There were various circumstances, but I became their guardian to look after them. However, they're also the same—now that they can roam freely, they may choose to go where they wish and be with whomever they want.

It's true I've formed a bond with them, but I hesitate in trying to get them "adopted" due to the unpredictable nature of this place. I'd hate for them to feel an even greater loss and risk neglect should an owner suddenly disappear. So I just ensure they have a place to live and their needs are met while making it well known in case something should happen to me so someone else can take my place.

[He's thought it through, but to most people it really does look as if they're "his" dogs no matter how he may deny it.]

[Her attention dips onto the one she's managed to pick up. Iris is a wiggly one. Young, Beatrix assumes, by comparison of the others, though admittedly, she knows next to nothing about such creatures. Or pets of any kind, really. A general's social expectations do not permit her the ability to have such... things. Unfortunately.

As she listens, she affectionately rubs the top of Iris' head and right behind her ears thoughtfully.]

That is... very kind of you.

[There's probably a better way to put that, but Beatrix doesn't offer out compliments easily, hence the strange awkwardness that always seems to accompany them when she's feeling particularly charitable. She takes a moment to look over all of the dogs. There's no shortage of them. How nice it must be to be a dog.

No responsibilities. No queens. No complicated decisions to be made.]

It seems they are a bit... communal. Friendlier than I would have anticipated. I get it, though. Things here are... unstable. They ought not to suffer at the hands of that.

[Oooh, Iris is enjoying those ear scritches and she'll stop wriggling to settle more into Beatrix's arms so she can get more, her tail thumping lightly against the woman. And seeing their sister treated with care, the other Flower siblings will ease off and start running around them instead before heading off to play nearby. Adults are talking boring stuff.]

They are very intelligent, more so than average dogs. I assume it might be due to their more magical nature.

[He does notice how she seems to be enjoying holding Iris, though, a light grin forming.]

You're more than welcome to visit them any time.

[Just like that, the gaggle of dogs seem content to go on their own way. And Iris is... getting excruciatingly comfortable, which is an awkward experience for Beatrix, but no more or less awkward than her attempts to be somewhat personable.]

I have heard that animals are skilled with judging the character of those around them. Perhaps given their nature here, that is only amplified.

[She wonders what that says about her, however. Iris, without even knowing her, seems to understand that Beatrix is not all serrated edges and heartless action. On the contrary, very little about Beatrix is heartless at all. Maybe Iris can see right through the charade.

She catches wind of the quirk in Eustace's mouth and pointedly turns her gaze aside.]

I am not much of a pet person. [She admits.] My role did not provide me the time to be so. I have not spent much in the presence of animals.

[Rather than Beatrix, Eustace is watching how Iris is behaving around the woman, noting how she really seems to be enjoying her company. He won't tell Beatrix this, but it's similar how she behaves around him, so yes, she definitely can tell that they're both softies at heart. He can also hazard a guess that Iris also wants to make Beatrix happy, so Beatrix will just have to suffer the puppy cuddles as he's going to make no move to help her.

In fact—]

Oh? You seem to be doing well so far.

[—just going to make things "worse."]

And you have plenty of time here. I was in a similar position as yourself, and now...

[Well. Even he never would have dreamed of himself taking care of all these dogs and building a dog park.]

[Beatrix says... absolutely nothing at first. What can she say, after all? She knows how she is, remotely, underneath the title of 'general.' That is to say, she knows she isn't all sharp and serrated edges, even if she's not keen to admit that to anyone. When it dawns on her that she's only more than a little awkward, she clears her throat.

At least she isn't colouring. Much. Maybe just a little. Her gaze draws aside for some moments before she finds her voice again.]

It does seem as if our time here is questionably... Well. That is to say, never can tell how long we will end up staying. I would not wish to disappoint any animal, however, even if it were to become attached to me. [She dips her gaze onto Iris and affectionately, she offers a rub to her chin.] Of course, my thoughts on people are much the same.

Mm... It's something I've wrestled with as well. [Moreso on forming...deeper relationships than just casual ones.]

However... I think we can allow ourselves some connections while we're here, whether it be for another month or a year. Who knows... [He feels a nudge at his leg and there's a soft smile as he pets one of the corgis ears.] Maybe they would feel more disappointed if we ignored them when they want our attention.

[Though is it just for animals? Or for people, too?]

[She isn't inclined to agree with that either. But that's coming from a woman who hasn't exactly been fond of making connections in her original world to begin with. To come here and expect something different out of her seems a little silly in her opinion. Not that... Eustace has any idea what she's like back in Alexandria and that's probably for the best.]

That is possible. I do not know animals enough to say. I suppose they are a bit codependent. It is unlikely that these dogs, after all, could adequately care for themselves without your assistance.

[Helpful to people and to animals. He's just a regular hero, isn't he? How nice that must be. She can't help but ponder as she offers Iris one more pat before she puts the puppy down. Probably not a good idea for her to get too attached either. That's dangerous.]

Or perhaps, you are able to provide them a better life than they would otherwise be able to provide to their own.

[Too late, she picked up the pup that's a lovebug and will love anyone and everyone. So Iris is going to just sit by Beatrix, looking up at her with such big eyes, her tail wagging a little against the ground.]

No... Perhaps a better life, but I think they would be able to handle fine with me. [Small pause.] At least the Flowers. [A small nod to Iris as reference to who he's talking about.] They were originally strays and would have grown up in the Wildlands had I not brought them here instead. The corgis, however, were in a more...questionable situation.

[That he won't get into detail unless she wants to know. Instead he looks at Iris and then just gives a small shrug.]

But whether you want it or not, attachments towards you will be made. And while you may choose to ignore it...there's nothing wrong in enjoying and experiencing the happiness it may bring.

[She raises an eyebrow. Iris just... sits there. And waits. Probably for more pats. And Beatrix is weak. She'll give in eventually. Before she grants herself that opportunity, however, she focuses on what Eustace has to share.]

I see. Whether they survive well in the wild or not, however, it stands to reason that their lifestyle is much improved with your interference. [That's not how she means to really put it. 'Interference' makes it sound like a negative, when it's not negative at all.] I mean to say that it is beneficial to them.

[Weakness does finally kick in and it's an excellent time for it to do so. She makes it seem begrudging, the way she kneels down to give Iris some more attention. Whether she's stalling for time or just fishing for some appropriate way to respond is up for debate.]

I confess to avoid forming attachments where and when I can. [She manages to utter out.] I suppose my time has not allowed me the luxury of such things. Even had it, such... amicable nature serves my influence poorly

[How will her subordinates respect her if she doesn't lead them with fear and intimidation?]

[Yes, good, Iris. Show Beatrix the beauty and wonder of dogs—

Iris is very please and closes her eyes happily as she bumps Beatrix's hand, her tail wagging more quickly in delight. Though who knows, maybe a few others may want in on the petting...

And of course, Eustace is watching all of this with a knowing eye. Yes, he understands...he understands well.]

I was the same. In fact, dogs used to avoid me. [Which was...painful.]

But as I said, you have the opportunity now. No appearances to keep up, no obligations. [A small shrug.] If you don't like it then that's that, but if you find yourself enjoying it, I see no reason for you to hold yourself back.

[He doesn't realize it because he's focused on dogs, but he should listen to his own words—]

I find that rather difficult to believe. You have been annoyingly personable since we met for the first time.

[It's a compliment really. As close to a compliment as Beatrix can give, anyway. She's not very good at that either. In fact, she just sucks at this whole 'person'ing thing. At least she's trying.

She does take what he has to say seriously, however. It's worthy of her mulling over. The moment she actually began to realise that she appreciated the company of a select few. The challenges they've brought with them. The things they've made her think about. It's all unnerving. Unlike her, perhaps. Maybe unlike the her that she's accustomed to. These aren't things she knows how to convey properly. If at all. And in this world... Well.

There's a mess of complications. It's not as simple as it seems.]

I am unsure of how to feel about it. [It's a surprising amount of honesty from her.] It is complicated. I am... appreciative of the... assistance I have received. From you. From others. Voicing it is more difficult than it is for me to simply feel it.

Edited (wow, how dare you, italics) 2022-02-18 06:29 (UTC)

[There's just a small laugh because he can hardly believe it himself. But he often looks back on those many...far too many years when he closed himself off, and while he was already softening, he's certainly softened more since being here (dogs definitely helped—).]

If you consider me being "personable," then I can only imagine how you feel towards those who are truly social. [Several people come to mind.]

But it's fine. I've found a simple thanks from people like us can be more profound to those who aren't used to hearing it.

[He can vividly recall the times when he's shown appreciation or given a compliment and just received a shocked stare.]

Truly social.

[She echoes him curiously, finding him perfectly sociable in comparison to herself. Although it seems they were once more like one another in the past. Perhaps prior to any sort of adjustment he's seen fit to go through.]

I find you plenty social.

[She thinks over what gratitude means coming from people like them. What gratitude means when she uses it in her rare moments. She can never be straight forward about it, but... It means a lot to her.]

I suppose you are right. Profound and surprising. I should be certain not to use my gratitude overmuch, lest someone become accustomed to such kindness from me. I should not like it much if someone suddenly came to think I was... likeable.

[He snorts.]

The people from back home would wonder if you'd gone crazy if they heard that...

[Though to be fair—he has become more social here.]

But I think it's too late...at least for one "person."

[Said "person" being a dog named Iris. And now there are more dogs that are coming around to sniff up Beatrix. If Iris is giving her the clear, then surely this lady is nice!!!]

I have never cared much what others thought of me. I do not think that would change even in the presence of people from your world.

[Or so she says. It is possible that Beatrix cares more than she lets on and simply doesn't want to admit to that. It lessens just how intimidating she is, after all.

Her attention turns onto Iris and then the other dogs that are coming to join them. Maybe a sign that she's overstayed her welcome? Maybe because Iris is getting attention and they all want attention. Either way, she seems to get what Eustace is getting at.]

Animals are not the same as people. They do not judge in the same way. Although some would say their intuition of character is... better than anything you or I may establish.

[He's just going to watch as the dogs clearly want more attention from the new lady. She's a guest! And Iris in particular doesn't want Beatrix to leave yet.]

Then you should know Iris's intuition is never wrong. She is the most sensitive towards people and a good judge in character.

Though I have to ask—why would you not want someone to think of you as such?

["Likeable" that is.]

[Beatrix issues a sigh, evidently at the mercy of the dogs. If one gets a pet, then soon enough, she goes from one to the other and right on down the proverbial line.]

Grand. This dog is going to sniff out all of my secrets. [Which is probably more true than she really wants it to be. Eustace's question is rewarded with a pause before she offers him a passing glance. What a prying question.]

I am not suited for such... exchanges with others. [She explains.] Suppose someone should think to rely on me or mistakenly believe I would provide adequate companionship. You endure my presence because there are parallels betwixt us, Eustace. 'Tis a luxury many others would not share.

[...Ah. An interesting take, but after some thought he begins to understand it. He had once been that way, after all.

...But her tone and phrase...it makes him wonder. In the past he just wanted to be left alone, full stop. Now he still prefers his solitude, but he doesn't mind if people seek him out even if he feels similar: he wouldn't be the best choice. But somehow she sounds...]

I could understand if you just preferred to be alone for your own preferences... But you make it sound as if rather than trying to avoid people for your own sake, you're just not sure if you would make things awkward for them.

[He crouches down to pet the ones who gathered by him before finally opting to just sit. Beatrix should totally try this it's much easier to pet them all—]

Seems rather considerate if so.

[She scoffs.

Her, considerate? She supposes she can be. That she often is underneath all of the hard exterior. There's no doubting that Beatrix would do most anything for her people. For her sovereign. She's proven that time and again.

Beatrix settles on his words and eventually decides to follow suit. And sits. Resting a hand atop a dog, she draws in a breath, still wondering how to address him. How does she really feel when it comes to people? That's complicated.]

I do not spend much time with people in Alexandria. My obligations prevent me from doing this. Even if they did not, it is important that I keep my reputation in consideration. How I reflect on my queen, on my people, these are crucial details. That was all I meant. I am uncomfortable being around others when I must act as something other than the general of Alexandria's military.

[Really she could get up and leave and he wouldn't stop her. But having her join him is welcomed and two more dogs plop down next to her as some run off to play while the rest hang around.]

Mm... I see.

[A small nod of understanding as he idly scratches the ears of the corgi next to him.]

How long have you been a general?

[She offers a hand over to one of the dogs at her side, giving them a chance to sniff her and determine friend from foe, though she suspects Iris' stamp of approval will likely lead to only more of the same.]

Hm... Ten years?

[Has it been about that time? Ten years before she'd lost against Adelbert. He was given his... captainship, if she wanted to call it that. And she... Well. Being general was like a consolation prize, she supposes.

And before that—]

I served as a knight before then.

[As ever, it occurs to her that much of her life has been spent in servitude.]

[Yep, they do indeed determine her as a friend and lick her fingers. Will they ever get any treats??

But ten years... That's quite a long time to be in such a high position, or so he thinks, anyway. Who knows if the ranking is different in her world. It's still not something to ignore or take lightly.]

And how long were you a knight?

[Oh.

Beatrix's expression turns. It's a strange thing to be licked. Hopefully it's not something she'll have to get accustomed to. And given that she has absolutely no food for animals, she suspects they'll tire of her soon enough.]

It has been a while.

[She answers. Beatrix understands that from a young age she was considered a prodigy with the sword. And she understands also that instead of a childhood, or what Alexandrians might have considered 'normal,' much of her time has been spent... well. With swords. And books.]

I entered the knighthood when I was a child, I suppose. Lineage expectations, perhaps. Or what I perceived to be such things. I have been in service long enough that I do not remember a life before it.

[Which should say enough.]

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