Guild Wars 2

Let’s see. Something positive to offset Pyro’s negativity….

We got new traits (which they promptly “fixed” one of them).

They removed Raid on the Capricorn map from pvp (which I think was a bad call, but I guess the majority didn’t like learning how to play underwater).

They removed the pvp locker and added a wardrobe, for those aesthetically inclined.

I still play my mesmer, same as always. I adapt to however they fix/break/cripple the class and play around that. It would be nice if they would actually take time to consider what the kitten they are going to do before they do it, but that requires more thought process than I guess some people like to use. I encounter this in my own work place. That aside…

Other classes got buffed. Ranger got buffed (see all the threads of QQ about that here on the mesmer forum too). Longbow #2 [Rapid Fire] is ridiculously fast now. So you can expect to see a bunch of underskilled power rangers spamming their #2 as often as it is not on cooldown. (Hence the biggest outcry for original Mimic from the mesmer community.)

I play for people anymore. =) Join OMFG. Maybe we can get Pyro to stick around a little longer than a couple days.

I like Arcane Thievery, but it has a fairly high cooldown. You also have to hope you can get lucky with Null Field. A lot of people just step out of it and lose one, maybe two, boons. You could try the Disenchanter + shattering. You still have to get lucky with the first rips from the enchanter though.

We’ll throw a party after the OMFG team plays in the tournament this weekend. =) Win or lose it’ll be fun and we can all have some fun afterwards.

Alornis, you have five guilds already. Unable to invite.

Our first essay was a narrative. It had to have 5+ paragraphs, dialogue, a metaphor or simile, and to top it off it had to be between 500 and 1000 words. (I was not a happy writer.) I had no story left by the end of it.

He only had you write three paragraphs?! My professor is demanding five+ per essay.

Oops! She. Ha ha. =) The point is what you don’t say in your dialogue is important too. Some people wave their hands around a lot when they talk, look past you, look at you, curl a lip because they don’t like the subject, and it’s these nuances that make the dialogue feel alive. He said – she said – are good sometimes, but not always.

Half the battle of writing is reading. I read all the time to improve my own writing. I read books by Writer’s Digest, I read Anne McCaffrey, Robin McKinley, the Guild Wars 2 books, and on occasion I’ll read 3-4 words out of the dictionary (so nerdy, I know). But, you pick up the things you like about the writers you like. I digressed a wee bit, so here’s my point: Readers like a character they can connect to, physically, emotionally, or mentally. Readers tend to have an especial interest in “broken” characters.

Now, I’m going to toodle off to my guardian’s story. =)

Uden Reavstone.3426:

Bhuer smiled. “Ah, Ember Fireeyes. It’s good that you’re here. The three of us got a very important mission for you.”

Read that aloud to yourself. “The three of us got…” Does that sound right?

Uden Reavstone.3426:

Ember nodded. “I see that all three Legions have a part in this. Reminds me of my Ghostbore Musket. What are my orders, sirs?”

I hope the importance of this musket is explained later.

Uden Reavstone.3426:

“Yes, I remember your gun and that you chose Blood’s cannon over Ash’s turrets,” Torga snarled. “We need you to attack and capture a Flame Legion base.”

I know this is all just a sample of dialogue, but it’s flat. I’m not very familiar with the Tribunes, but I do think one of them is missing a tooth, right? Or one of the fangs is broken? Anyway, add some flavor. “Torga snarled, flashing a fang at Ember with his annoyance.” Something to that effect.

Uden Reavstone.3426:

“It’s a solo mission for one thing,” Rylock replied. “Your target is Incendio Templum. Any more questions?”

Yes, you have more questions. The Charr are militaristic. They are going to march toward something either knowing the danger or the numbers. The only time Charr marched towards an “unknown” was in Destiny’s Edge and Kralkatorrik awakened. ~ By the way, you missed your t in Rytlock for this part.

I like the dialogue. It is effective, but needs more meat on its bones.

lol I did, but I meant in the case of proofreading.

I look forward to hearing from you.

You know, that’s what “editors” are for. I’d be happy to help you proofread.

Where is this contest at?

I would think it would be okay… You would need it to be GW2 related in some way I think.

Well, perhaps they smell like her. I’ve noticed they have blossoms on them whenever you’re chopping them down, so maybe that was a scent she liked. Or, perhaps in a [dramatic] fit she impaled herself with a softwood stake from a Snow Cherry sapling. I could list a few more ideas, but those were the first two I thought of.

AkioFallstar.5460:

The race is over two decades old at the time of the personal story – twenty years is plenty of time for a backstory, and the personal story doesn’t have to feature in the backstory at all.

My stories for example tend to run parallel or take place before the personal/living story. A backstory can simply take the character, the world, and work from there. It might have nothing to do with the personal/living story at all.

Besides, who knows exactly how much time actually passes between you starting a character and starting your personal story? For example, I have plenty of characters that haven’t done any of their personal story (or only enough to get their first keys) suggesting that they had many, many adventures all over the place.

This is how you have backstory. It doesn’t mean you have to dig into their childhood. It just means it’s an event in the past that has an impact on the “present” of your character. Time in the world of Tyria is quite loose. The time between the present and Vinesta’s clip of backstory is about eight years, which I did include the first little bit of personal story as well as allude to map completion through the heart challenges.

Well, also consider the weapons the phantasms use, in particular, focus iWarden. It wields dual axes, which is a weapon a mesmer cannot use. Would you want to make legendaries for each of the phantasms? How would you make one for Warden? If they changed it, what would it use?

Well, my mesmer’s story is here, but I have a few other short stories on the forums. I’m in the process of writing an essay for school and backstory on my Sylvari guardian. Both are a lot of fun.

Most of the rangers I’ve run across are not going to maintain that kind of range. More over, they said interrupts, not range. So, the question stands. What more do you want in the way of interrupts? We have several.

If you trait, you can get 3 with mantra, there’s GS 5 knockback, chance on Chaos Storm, offhand sword 4 (double tap), pistol 5, focus 4 pull, and Diversion (3rd shatter). There are a lot of options for interrupt. What “more” do you want?

I like it too, but, being a different kind of artist I understand what you mean. We’re our own worst critic.

I do dungeons and fractals. ToL has made me hate pvp, but I’ll pop in to help someone with a build or train someone (on or versus a mesmer). I am beginning to get back into WvW though.

I think s/he meant “tirade;” a “triad” is something that is a group of three, whether is is people, items, or similarly related ideas.

Invites sent. I’ve managed to update a few ranks.

I absolutely despise Traveler runes, so my bias here won’t help you lol. =) If I want swiftness I’ll run with focus or suck up my lack of speed and move around like normal. I carry every combination of weapon on both of mesmers, but I’ve always preferred weapons that were… not the focus. I initially leveled my first mesmer with sword/pistol and got persuaded to use focus.

Ignore that. If you’re messing around for fun, that’s fine, it looks wonderful. If people like it, even better. If you’re looking at professional editing, yeah, you might be overdoing it. For the most part, it looks ok to me. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” We are not all going to like the same things. So, everyone else can suck it up. Just be happy with what you’re doing. =)

As you can see in the mesmer section of the forums, there has been a lot of talk about PU as it will be getting “balanced” tomorrow. Whether or not you feel as though this will effect you… shrug

Traditional PU uses Nightmare runes, or at least how I was told. You can use anything you want since you’re power PU. You can go for something lending to power stats or condi. Same goes for your sigils. I know a few power PUs that use bloodlust sigil on the sword rather than corruption (on scepter). I use smoldering on my torch and I like to use doom on my staff. You might want to use energy, to help compensate for your dodges, and maybe battle.

I run traditional PU on one of my mesmers in pvp (so rabid amulet). Out in wvw, if I just want to be very annoying, I put on Dire armor and run around laughing because I can’t die (easily). You could always try both and see which one you like better.

Sounds like you’re looking at build something like PU – condi-based with high toughness. PU, itself, will be taking a hit in this next big patch. If you’d like to practice with staff feel free to pm me in game, that way you can get a feel for what kind of build you’d like to go with. That will be the deciding factor in the armor/weapon stats you will want settle on.

Feel better soon.

Did you self-publish or were you picked up by a company? I’m looking at publishing a collection of my GW2 short stories this fall. Do you have a tips for a young writer trying to test the waters?

Well done indeed.

You say sword/sword sylv male and then my sensei comes to mind. Chaos loves sw/sw set up. (He’s mean with it too…)

Hnnng, staff. It needs an overhaul. Not my favorite weapon for mesmer.

Are you going to do a card for each class? A mesmer card would be awesome.

A small body waddled up beside him to sit quietly with him. He knew it was Sriyil. She knew everything almost as soon as it happened or within moments after it occurred, it was uncanny.

“Aja is tougher than she looks. She will be fine in a few days.”

Valter did not reply, still focused on the water. He was worried about her. She had never been so hurt before, not around him least ways. Seeing her in pain, fear gnawed at him. She could have died. They had not been friends for very long, but she was important to him. Their friendship was special. He looked down when Sriyil grabbed his paw. He met her bright eyes. A smile played across her lips. She was the most cheerful person he knew, especially among Asurans.

“She will be fine, Valter. You two will be fighting again in no time.” She reassured him again.

His gaze shifted over the bay again. “She looks so fragile and vulnerable. She is so fierce it frightens me to see her any other way.”

The Asura giggled at him. “She will be her normal, cranky self when the medicine wears off.”

“I should have paid more attention. I should have protected her better.” He yowled as she pulled his whiskers.

“Don’t make her cry, Valter. She’d be upset if you were hurt. “She shrugged. “You can’t change things now. Everyone made it out of there in one piece; be thankful for that.”

He smiled down at her. “Thanks Sriyil.”

“It’s what I’m here for!” She replied enthusiastically with a grin then added, “and snooping too.”

“Snooping on who?”

“No one at the moment, dear Valter.” She shook her head at him. “I came because Takka told me Ajjai was hurt.”

“No ulterior motives?” He asked dubiously.

She shrugged with a little smile, her ears rising with her shoulders. “I might have plans for later. I do have to make up for cutting out on a mission with my order.”

He chuckled.

“I hear Zojja is here, so maybe I can pick her brains about what happened to Ajjai and take that information back to the Priory.” She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Then again, there are others who owe me favors. I might just call in a marker.”

He shook his head at her. “Thanks again, for everything Sri.”

She smiled. “A warband is family, Valter, and family looks out for each other.”

Sriyil stayed with him for a while longer, watching the ships on the bay. Valter was not sure when she left, but only became aware of it when he turned to ask if she would like to get some food with him. He doubted anyone at the inn had eaten. Euryale might have, but he couldn’t be sure. She might have had her paws full with the Asurans. He got to his feet. He’d buy some food and return now. It was getting dark. He hoped they were done and he could see his friend again.

~~~
Author’s Note
Whew! That was a long one, but I hope you all like it. There is a tentative part three to this story, but it’s not been written (yet). If you made it this far, please feel free to give me some feedback! <3 Ajjai’s Dilemma - Part one to this story.

Grimm lurched to his feet. His ears pinned back as his hands balled into fists. He bristled as he faced Valter. He was the only one who had touched her since the fight.

“How could you?” His accusing glare focused solely on the big Charr. “How could you hurt her? She is my Krewemate! My family! You brutish oaf!” He hopped a step closer in agitation. “I thought you were friends! I thought she was part of your warband! –“

“Whoa!” This was news to Euryale.

“How could you treat your own family like this?” He raged at him.

Valter did not respond. He watched Ajjai. More than anything he hated himself for the pain she’d endured because of him.

Ajjai leaned forward to pinch the tip of Grimm’s ear. “Stop that. He is my friend and we are family. Don’t talk to him like that!” She groaned and leaned back to ease the stretching on the burns. She panted softly. “Just… just be quiet or go away.”

“Why didn’t you tell any of us?” Euryale finally asked her.

“Because Valter was right. We had saved Takka, but we still had to get ourselves out of danger.”

“Then why not let the medic see it?”

Ajjai’s lip curled into a snarl. “No way! I need an Inquest expert!”

Euryale looked over to Valter and he shrugged. Mysteries around the Asura he typically left Ajjai to explain. He did not know there could be Inquest experts. Euryale looked like she was going to ask more questions, but there was a knock at the door. She went to open it and stared down at the three Asurans who stood bickering in the hall.

One, Valter recognized, was Zojja, but the other two he did not know. Zojja was nose to nose with a male Asura. Another female stood back from the two. She looked annoyed by her associates.

Ajjai groaned and all conversation paused. “All of you stop fighting! You,” her hand encompassed all Asurans present, “I will tie your ears in a knot behind your head if you don’t stop. And you,” she pointed to Valter and Euryale, “don’t make me pull your whiskers out.”

Euryale covered her muzzle with her paws. She shot a glance over to Valter, but he was still fixated on his friend. Despite her brave front she was in a great deal of pain. He could see it in the tense lines of her face and the way her ears pressed themselves against her skull. She shifted gingerly in her seat.

Zojja crossed to her first, gently lifting her shirt to see the damage. She sighed, shaking her head. The other female came over. She carried two bags, no doubt supplies for whatever they might need to do. The male followed more reluctantly. He eyed Zojja then the Charr warily before looking at the burns on Ajjai’s side. His gaze flew up to Valter then.

Valter left the room with a loud sigh. He had only wanted to speak to his friend. Instead he had gotten distracted by her injury and now he was everyone’s enemy. He left the inn, wandering around Lion’s Arch. His thoughts were on Ajjai. She was a Charr in a tiny Asuran body. He knew her people had big personalities to match their big egos, but she did not quite talk like they did. She felt like a Charr.

He stopped on the bridge and looked across the bay. Despite being an Asura and so very different she had wheedled her way into his warband. There weren’t many he trusted as implicitly as he did her. A worried sigh escaped him. He was afraid for her and only hoped the other Asurans could help her. He sat on the bridge, staring at the fragments of sunlight rippling on the surface of the water as he thought of his experiences with Ajjai.

~~~
Cool, salty air greeted them as they arrived in Lion’s Arch. Gulls screamed as they soared in the air. A Norn woman exited the inn to greet them. Ajjai stiffly followed her inside. She showed them their rooms. Takka and Grimm shared a room, Ajjai had her own, and Valter and Euryale were together as well. Grimm helped his sister into bed. The medic had insisted she rest. Ajjai disappeared quietly into her room. Valter looked after her, staring at her closed door. He decided to give her space. He would speak to her later. He followed Euryale as she stalked into their room. She huffed as she looked around then curled her lip at Valter.

“You’re still here? Go talk to her.” She growled at him.

“Shouldn’t I leave her alone for a little while?” Women were tricky and he wasn’t sure what to do.

“If she doesn’t want you around she’ll swat your nose. I’ve learned that!” Euryale rubbed her nose.

Valter grinned. “Thanks Eury.”

He left to find his friend. He hoped she would still be in her room. When he reached the door he leaned in to listen. It was quiet. He stepped back, wondering again if he should leave. He huffed and while he was debating it she opened the door.

Ajjai folded her arms as she glared up at him. Her armor was gone, replaced by light, comfortable clothes. “I thought I heard something grinding gears out here. You going to come in or what Pitters?”

She waddled away, leaving him at the door. He watched her move towards a chair in the center of the room. Something was wrong. He looked around, sniffing softly. Blood. She was hurt! She did not appear outwardly injured, but she had not let the medic see her either. She had hidden her pain.

Valter growled as he stomped over to her. “Why didn’t you let the medic look at you Shrimpy?”

She sighed deeply as she sat, shifting carefully to relax in her seat. “I don’t think she could have tended this.” She lifted the hem of her shirt for him to see.

A burn covered her entire right side from her ribs to her hips, blistered and raw. Thin rivers of blood came from the worst of them. There was one Charr-sized handprint in the ruined flesh where he had picked her up. The skin had pulled away, exposing the raw tissue underneath. She let her shirt fall to cover it again.

His nostrils flared. He was upset she had not said anything. He had no doubt he had hurt her when he had picked her up, but she had given no indication of pain then. He was mad she had not let the medic see it. He was mad she was injured. Most of all, he was mad at himself for not protecting her better. He roared his outrage in self-loathing.

Euryale, Grimm, and Takka rushed into the room. Other patrons came to see what the fuss was about, but a snarl from Euryale kept most of them away. Grimm waddled closer, his sister following a few steps behind him. Ajjai wouldn’t look at anyone.

Grimm turned to Valter. “What happened?”

“She is hurt, but she didn’t tell any of us.” He growled, waving a paw at Ajjai. He crossed his arms as he glared at her now.

Ajjai was still ignoring everyone.

“How bad is it?” Takka asked softly from behind her brother, worry coloring her voice.

“Very.”

Euryale walked closer. “Let us see.”

“Just go away!” Ajjai said sullenly. “I already sent for a specialist.”

Euryale would have pressed the matter, but Grimm knelt in front of his Krewemate, gently placing his hands on her knees. She looked at him for a long moment then nodded slowly. She turned her head towards the wall, gritting her teeth and gripping her seat. He carefully pulled her shirt up to see the injuries. His face crumpled and he looked up at her. It hurt she had not told him either. He glanced at the burns again, noting how the damaged skin had torn.

Dakk snarled as he faced them. His pistol pointed at Takka across from him. “You’re here for her and I’ll make sure you don’t get her.” He snarled. “Just stay back, all of you.”

“If you harm her you’ll get no rest in the Mists when I’m through with you!” Ajjai snapped, her hands balled into fists as she bristled at the Inquisitor. “By the Eternal Alchemy, I swear it.”

He sniffed, his finger twitched on the trigger. REX and IKE fidgeted behind Grimm, momentarily distracting Dakk from the real threat. RAMMUS had shorted out only a few seconds ago. The golem whirled on the axis of its hips as it walked forward, plowing into Dakk. The Inquisitor screamed as he and the golem fell into the magma.

Ajjai put her fists on her hips and glared at Takka. She did not know if she should be elated she was unharmed or furious for the entire ordeal. She would have to be one of them first.

“What,” she exploded, “were you thinking? Do you have any idea how worried we became after reading your cryptic message?” Takka withered under her friend’s fury, cringing as large tears began to slide down her cheeks. Ajjai relented and hugged her tightly. “I’m so glad you’re all right! I was afraid we’d be too late.”

“I did not mean to worry you. I thought I would try another power source for my invention. It didn’t work anyway.” She showed them the ruined power core. Her hands were burnt, which made Ajjai squeal.

“Takka! Why didn’t you say anything? Grimm, bring one of you elixir kits. Her hands are burnt.” Ajjai ordered everyone around, taking command of the situation again.

Valter picked her up and gently set her on his shoulders. “Shrimpy, she’s safe now, but we’re not. We should leave before more of these pipsqueaks come along.”

Grimm carefully wrapped his sister’s hands then helped her into the back harness of his golem. He climbed into the pilot harness, reactivating the controls. They were ready to go now. The Charr loped ahead and Grimm followed in his golem.

Ajjai was quiet. She kept an eye and ear out for danger, but her thoughts were on Takka. She would probably look for another power source, leave another note, or none at all, and then they might never see her again. It would be best to speak to Grimm. Between the two of them Ajjai felt they could come up with a safe solution. Safe did not always get results, so they would have to work hard. Her frown bordered on a pout and she curled her fingers more tightly into Valter’s mane. She was lost in her thoughts.

Valter chanced tilting his head enough to see Ajjai. She’d been frowning, but now she looked tired and almost sad. He wouldn’t ask. She never answered him when he did. She might speak to him on her own though. He could probably entice her to speak by getting her to help him re-braid his mane. Despite the odd shape of her hands they were much smaller and more nimble than his own. She did better braids than he or Euryale managed.

There was little resistance as they made their escape. When they finally returned to the research camp another Asura attended to Takka’s hands. Ajjai had watched then stepped away to prepare at teleportation circle. The medic checked everyone else, treating their cuts and scrapes. She would have checked on Ajjai too, but the surly necromancer wouldn’t let her near. It worried Valter as he watched her. The golems were shuffled into a separate circle to be returned to the lab and they all stepped into the other one once it was ready.

Valter almost lost his hold on her as she twisted violently and lunged for the male again. Grimm reached him first, settling an amulet around his neck. The Inquest scientist disappeared, teleported by the charm on the necklace. Ajjai seethed, rigid in her stance. Grimm carefully sidled closer to her and rested a hand on her shoulder. Valter could only stare as she relaxed and nodded to her Krewemate. He would have to get him to tell him his secret. He could never get her to calm down that quick.

“Let’s move. Takka is ahead of us and I want to reach her before the Inquest do.”

The small Asura took off in a run. Grimm clambered back into his golem and lumbered after her. The other golems ranged between them at varying speeds based on their builds. Valter was reluctant to leave Grimm behind, but he wanted to be up with Ajjai. She got herself into too much trouble on her own. He glanced up to Grimm. The golem suit gave him a thumbs up. He grinned and loped off after Ajjai.

~~~
The tunnels leading to the cavernous crater of the magma chamber were small and narrow. Valter and Euryale had to stay on all fours to make it through without hitting their heads or scraping their horns on the rock above them. Ajjai was gone. She’d gotten too far ahead and had left everyone behind. Valter only hoped she did not get herself in trouble before they could help her. Before the Charr had gotten separated Grimm had said he’d look for a wider entrance to bring the golems through. It might be a long time before the cavalry arrived.

Valter huffed, entering the crater ahead of Euryale. They ducked behind a tumble of rocks to survey the situation. Ajjai was nowhere in sight, but there was a little horde of Inquest between them and another Asura, who stood dangerously close to the magma. He looked around again, trying to spot his friend. He took a breath to sigh his relief when her head popped up from behind some rocks opposite them. She looked at them then stared across the crater to her endangered Krewemate.

“Shrimpy, don’t do it.” Valter growled, watching her. She looked at him again and then to the Inquest. He shook his head when he caught her attention had returned to him.

For just a second he thought she might listen to him. He didn’t know why he believed it. She was going to do whatever she wanted to do because it was what she wanted to do and being an Asura she was right to do it. He should know that by now. They were an unstoppable force when they decided on something.

“What is she doing? She’s not going out there alone, is she?” Euryale asked at his side.

Valter groaned. “She is. She knows we need a distraction to move, so she’s going to be it. She is counting on us to come help her once we start moving.”

“She’s insane!” Ajjai was pelting across the floor before Euryale finished.

“I think they all are.” He muttered, grabbing his staff. “Let’s move.”

Ajjai laid out marks ahead of her, poisoning, chilling, and inciting fear in the Inquest. She had their attention now, like she had planned. It was just a matter of keeping the situation contained until Valter and Euryale arrived. That should be easy enough!

Two engineers dropped turrets before facing her. One Inquest remained focused on Takka while the others turned to face the new threat. Ajjai entered her death shroud to siphon the life force from the already weakened Inquest, but they were sturdier than those they had left behind to guard the camp. She dodged one crackling bolt, but was hit by a second one from the other turret. She gasped in pain as her side burned. She dodged again, narrowly avoiding being hit a second time. She tried to focus on the fight.

A blue shield blocked an attack she had not seen coming. Valter gave a low growl and spared her a quick glare to let her know he wasn’t happy with her. He turned to face the Inquest. Euryale put out a ring of fire, trapping two Inquest with her. She could handle herself. Valter worked with Ajjai, empowering her as she murmured quick curses to bleed her opponents. A few fled rather than face the small force. Charr were hard to deal with.

Grimm arrived in time to stop their retreat. EINS met them first and, for a time, the golem did pretty well. One of the Inquest landed a lucky grenade on the not-so-lucky golem. The golem stiffened as its circuits shorted out. It exploded in a burst of flames, taking the two Inquest with it. Grimm fired rockets from his suit, further driving back the Inquest. They slowly advanced until only the Inquisitor was between them and Takka.

Euryale crouched for her to settle on her shoulders. The Asura’s fingers threaded gently through her mane to hold on. Valter put Grimm on his shoulders and they loped off. They were able to avoid most of the animals in their path. Rocks shifted behind them as they disturbed earth elementals, but they did not chase the small group. The imps and breezeriders chased them, but not very far.

The golems were ahead of them. Sriyil had marked a place with dense foliage to cover them until they could catch up. Grimm was more than relieved to see his inventions again. He was impatient to inspect them and nearly fell off Valter’s back in his own rush. The Charr chuckled as he set the Asura down. He ran over to his golems, walking around them several times before climbing into his suit and strapping himself in.

Ajjai did not move from Euryale’s shoulders. She crossed her arms as she scowled about something. Valter did not know if she was mad at Grimm or just mad because she was worried. He wanted to reassure her, but he knew she wouldn’t feel better until they found Takka. Though, he did think beating up a few Inquest would recover some of her humor.

“I’m ready!” Grimm called from inside his suit.

It thundered as it bounded towards them. The other golems followed in his wake.

“That way.” Ajjai pointed down the slope.

The curve of the hill gave way to a path inside the volcano. Again there was no stealth in their approach as the golems made enough noise to sound like a landslide. But, Valter was surprised, no Inquest attacked them. The camp was noisy too and even the volcano made sound to cover their advance. Steam hissed from a nearby vent.

Ajjai hopped down when the camp came into sight. She summoned her flesh golem. The sentries did not see them right away. One Asura crouched to take aim as another ran to set an alarm. They were too far away to stop him as a siren wailed, alerting the camp to their presence. Ajjai gave a soft growl and her masque made her eyes gleam. She was excited.

Euryale glanced at the small female then shot a look to Valter. He’d known battle would raise her spirits. The little Asura was a Charr at heart. He pulled his staff free to empower them as a line of warding temporarily cut their enemies off from reaching them.

As soon as the line dissipated Ajjai rushed forward with a yell. Her form changed, darkening as black wisps swirled around her. She siphoned the life force from the nearby Inquest in her death shroud. Those that remained standing were caught in the chains of torment that followed. They collapsed on the ground, writhing and screaming in pain. Euryale charged after her, not about to be outdone by someone less than half her own size.

Valter sighed and looked back to Grimm. The golem suit was slow and bulky. The girls would have the place cleaned out before he caught up. The light assault golem, REX, passed Grimm. It caught up with Ajjai and Euryale and began to blast the Inquest back with compressed air streams. Valter only barely caught some excited words from Grimm in his suit. He didn’t seem too upset about missing out a little action since his invention was evidently working very well.

They caught up with the women in a moment. Euryale was standing back from Ajjai, her arms folded over her chest as she watched the smaller female. The Asura was putting on a good bully routine. An injured Inquest scientist was at her feet. He scowled up to her.

“I’m not telling you anything!” He snarled then yowled when she pulled his ears.

“You’ll tell me or these ears are going to end up knotted behind your head!” She threatened, tugging harder on his ears.

“OW! All right!” Ajjai released his ears and he rubbed them as he glared at her. “The thief is at the heart of the volcano. A team followed her there. She stole an experimental power core from us and is planning to use the volcano to charge it. Inquisitor Dakk wants the core back and he’s going to keep her to teach her what we do to people who think they can steal from us.”

Ajjai lunged for the Inquest scientist with shriek, but Valter caught her first. He hauled her back and kept her from pummeling the male. She turned to swat at his arm, but he did not release her.

She snarled as she pointed a clawed finger at the scientist. “You’re lucky some people want to see you or I’d turn you into a shriveled little husk right here!”

He sneered at her. “Your Krewemate will be dead before you ever find her.”

Valter didn’t stop him again as he walked back to eat with Ajjai. The Charr ate quietly while the Asurans murmured about something. Valter thought it had to do with the golems. He eyed them. The tiny race certainly knew how to make some grand machines, but he thought they still paled in comparison to the Iron Legion machines.

“Mm, that smells good!” A new, female voice pulled Valter from his reminiscing. An Asura waddled into the camp.

“Sriyil!” Ajjai bounded up to hug the taller Asura. “What are you doing here? I thought you were busy. Did you leave your team again?”

She giggled as she nodded. “I did, but I had to.” Her face sobered. “The Inquest is aware of Takka and what she’s after. She is at the volcano now and they are right behind her.”

Ajjai’s ears pinned back as she cast a look to the volcano. The quickest way down was through the research camp, but the golems would have a hard time on the stairs, if they could make it down at all. They would have to take a longer route, just for them.

“I can help with that.” Sriyil said, deciphering the look on her Krewemate’s face. “If you can help me with a little magical oomph I can move your golems safely. You’ll still have to reach them though.”

“We can cross the crater from the research camp.”

She nodded. “There are some indigenous creatures up there, but they shouldn’t give you too much trouble. I don’t have much time so let’s get started.”

Valter stared after the two females. Grimm followed to help them and was promptly sent to sit with the Charr. He sighed watching them hustle his golems into a tight circle. The markings were Sriyil’s but the magic was all Ajjai’s. The glyphs flashed and the machines disappeared. Sriyil waddled over to them with a cheeky little smile. Valter couldn’t help grinning back at her.

“I delivered my message, so I must go. Just remember I have an eye and ear on you guys.” Valter was surprised to receive a hug from her. She was the nicest, friendliest Asura he’d ever met and she proved it every time. “Find my Krewemate please.”

With a jaunty little wave the Asura disappeared. In and out so fast that Valter wondered if he’d imagined her. He glanced around; nope, definitely not imagined. The golems were gone. He and Euryale would have to –

Scrrrrape. Scrrrratch.

The noise drew his attention. Ajjai used the butt of her staff to draw another circle. A frown creased her brow as she concentrated. He was familiar with some of the markings she was using. She was going to teleport them.

“We’re not running?” Euryale asked his question.

“Part way. I was going to speak to another scout before reaching the volcano, but since Sriyil found us, we can’t wait. We’ll just stop at the research camp and move on to the golems.” She answered.

Euryale looked up to Valter. He shrugged. A shorter run was more ideal. They would no doubt have to fight once they ran into the Inquest. They would have more energy for that now.

Grimm readied his rifle, checking the sight on it. He had more ammunition on his tool belt. His turrets were with the golems, but he knew they were in good working order. His pistols were with him too, but his shield was on the golem BOWSER. He would have time to grab it before any fighting broke out. He muttered quietly to himself then nodded. He was ready.

In that time Euryale had also primed some spells for use. They had a bit of a run ahead of them after teleport, but they still might need to fight before they reached the golems or the Inquest camp. It paid to be ready. She patted herself to be sure her preferred weapons were within easy reach. She chuffed.

“Come.” Ajjai called them.

They stood around her. She thumped her staff in the circle. The marks on the ground glowed brightly and they reappeared at the research camp near the summit of the volcano. A scientist ran over to greet them, speaking quickly to the Asurans. Valter tuned her out. Apparently, Ajjai didn’t want to talk to her either.

“We’re leaving. We’ll be returning shortly. Keep an eye out for Inquest.” She clipped a warning to the scientist and look of panic crossed the scientist’s face. “Euryale, I need a lift.”

She was quiet. Her face took on a reflective quality. The memory held great significance for her. “My former Krewe and I invented a golem with a pilot interface. Snaff’s golemancery work was revolutionary and lost with his death. We were competing for Snaff’s Prize and, with it, the Snaff’s Savant title. We all got pins for winning. It has his face on it.” She paused before speaking in sentimental tones that Valter rarely hear her use. “I thought he might like it.”

Euryale looked over to Valter, but he was watching his little friend. She surprised him more and more. She and Sriyil were unofficial members of his warband, but no less important to him than Euryale or the others. Ajjai had a hard personality to get along with and he hadn’t, not a first, but she’d proved herself in battle to be as capable as any Charr. She’d even saved his hide a time or two he recalled. She was mean and a bully and he had no idea what to do about her when she wasn’t acting like herself.

He looked up as Grimm held out a bowl for him and Euryale. He smiled to Valter, evidently more comfortable around the two Charr now. He looked over his shoulder to Ajjai as she fixed a bowl for Grimm and herself.

“She is a kittene to get used to, but I like her.” He said softly so she wouldn’t overhear them. “She gets like this when she’s worried. She almost took off after Takka when I told her about the note she’d left me.”

Valter arched a brow. “What changed her mind?”

Grimm chuckled, spreading his hands. “Sriyil, of course, she suggested we get more help if we’re going to be tangling with the Inquest. You were the first person Ajjai thought of and, anticipating that, Sri told her where to find you.”

“How does she know so much?” He asked with a shake of his head.

“I suppose she has good connections with the Order of Whispers and they know whenever the Tribune sneezes.” He waddled back to Ajjai, sitting with her.

The meal passed quietly. Ajjai had prepared exactly enough to feed everyone. She volunteered to take first watch for the night and argued with Valter until he agreed. He would take second watch and then Grimm and then Euryale. He was reluctant to sleep though. Knowing Ajjai she would attempt to stay awake all night so they could sleep. Again, Grimm saved him from arguing further with her by setting the golems to watch. Each one had a built in alarm, to prevent theft, but with a minor adjustment could be used to awaken them in the case of danger.

Valter watched the two Asurans work. He would stay awake until he saw them sleep. He was not sure he’d be able to sleep, even with the golems standing guard. They were not alive and did not have senses the way a living thing did. He just hoped they’d be good enough to warn them of danger before it was too late. He sighed as he settled back on his blanket.

~~~
How or when Valter had fallen asleep he did not know. His nose twitched and he opened his eyes a sliver to peek around. He was momentarily confused to see the jungle around him when he remembered why he was there. Ajjai had asked for his help. Ajjai? He sat up to look for her and felt relief wash over him to see she was making breakfast. He almost felt guilty for assuming she might sneak off without them. It did look as though she had not slept much.

Grimm touched her shoulder, speaking softly to her. She shook her head. His ears drooped a bit and he looked over to Valter. The other male knew his friend well. So she hadn’t slept, but he knew better than to think she would slow them down. It would have to be a cold day in Ascalon before she’d jeopardize any mission by slowing her team.

Again, Grimm brought them their food. Valter nudged Euryale awake. She grunted and growled grumpily, but her mood improved the moment she was handed food. Valter caught Grimm before he walked away. He glanced pointedly at Ajjai, asking a wordless question.

The Asura sighed, shaking his head. “She was up and down all night. I heard her pacing at one point.” An ear twitched as he pursed his lips thoughtfully. “My sister is… delicate. She is a good necromancer, but not strong – in personality. Ajjai is overbearing at times, but she is protective of Takka. They’re good friends. She is just worried. We’ve all had bad brushes with the Inquest before and after joining our Orders.”

~~~
As night fell Valter called a halt to their progress. They would have to reach the volcano tomorrow. He knew by the look Ajjai gave him that she would have pushed on recklessly. In this her heart was overriding her reason. Luckily he would not have to argue with her.

Grimm hopped down from his golem and stretched. “Ajjai, what’s for dinner?” Right on cue his stomach and that of the Charrs’ growled and gurgled with emptiness.

Ajjai hopped down from her golem, chagrined. "I’ll whip up something. Start a fire for me.”

She dug through her pack then looked around their campsite. Valter did not know when, but he was annoyed that she had disappeared when he turned around to ask her a question. Neither Grimm nor Euryale had seen her walk away. If she did not come back soon he was going to look for her.

Just as Valter was going to search for her, she returned. In one hand she held a fist full of herbs and the other held three rabbits by their ears. They were already dead. She held them up to Valter, frowning at him. He sighed and took the rabbits to skin and clean them for her. They would be little more than a snack for the two Charr, but she obviously had something in mind.

Valter glanced up as he worked on the rabbits. His pintsized friend was running the show, as usual. She had given Euryale orders to fill her pot with fresh water. Then she had turned to Grimm and had him recalibrating one of their messenger golems to fetch something for her. She was setting up a portable, and experimental, teleportation array. How they traveled with so many gadgets all the time he would never know. Maybe they kept them all in a dimensional rift.

Once Grimm had finished with the messenger golem Ajjai had taken it and was giving it very detailed instructions. Then she set it on the array. It crackled, glowing brightly as parts whirred and whined noisily. It darkened again. The golem was gone and the Asurans traded a look.

“Did it work?” Euryale asked as she eyed the array curiously.

Grimm shrugged. “We’ll know that if the golem returns. This is our first field test.”
“Why haven’t you tested it before?”

“Because he only just finished it,” Ajjai cut in with a scowl for the Charr. “He rushed it last night to have it ready to go today. We’ll be lucky if it does teleport it in the air or into a rock somewhere.”

“I did calibrate it to the pad in our lab!” Grimm said defensively as he spread his hands.

“Mistakes do happen.” She went quiet then smacked her hands to her cheeks. “What if it arrived in the pad? What if it blows up our lab?”

Valter was almost amused by the faces his friend made. She pouted and he patted her shoulder gently. He knew how much she loved the lab and her new Krewe. She looked over to him as he crouched at her side. A pout still puckered her lips petulantly.

“Your lab will be fine. Besides, if it blows up you’ll just get Sriyil to help you charm people for funds to build a new one.”

That worked. Her pout disappeared as her ears perked. “We could use a bigger bay for golem construction. Maybe Sriyil will help me get funds to expand our lab.”

Valter sighed. Now he’d given her an idea. Her plans and musings were interrupted as the golem returned. Grimm cheered, whooping at the success of the array. Ajjai gave a little sniff then set about cooking dinner. The golem had brought back some cuts of meat, which Ajjai cooked in a skillet as she prepared a stew with the rabbits. His stomach rumbled again at the aroma, but he knew better than to venture closer to the food. That would only cause him pain.

He moved to sit back next to Euryale. The female Charr was watching Ajjai, her ears flicking thoughtfully. She had a question, but she was not going to ask it. It made Valter curious as to what had made his friend curious.

At last she asked, “What was it you gave to Tribune Brimstone?”

Ajjai’s ears swiveled forward, but she did not look up. “Nothing. Just a momento.”

Valter snorted. “You Asuras don’t carry trinkets around. It was important.”

Swamp and jungle smells mingled as they arrived at Broken Arrow Waypoint. The volcano was still a fair distance away. Ajjai pulled a crystal from her pocket and attuned it to their location. A map was projected for the two Charr to see. She pointed to a camp south of their current location.

“We will make a pit stop there. Grimm should be waiting for us.” She told them and pocketed the crystal again.

“Grimm?” Euryale asked.

“He is also someone important to me, but he is her brother. When he heard I planned on looking for his sister he insisted on coming.”

Ajjai took a few steps forward before Valter picked her up. He set her on his shoulders. He tilted his head to see her from the corner of his eye with a small growl.

“Don’t let it get to your head Shrimpy. It’s just faster this way.”

She took a careful hold on his mane as he loped towards Firebreak Fort. The scout waved goodbye to them. His information was well worth the price she’d paid. She would have gotten better quality from Sriyil, but the Priory had her busy with a mission. Somehow she’d tracked Valter for her. The wily Asura could probably charm the dragons, if given enough time and resources.

A patrol greeted them as they neared the fort. They glanced curiously at Ajjai on Valter’s shoulders. The Charr opened his mouth to comment and thought better of it when both Valter and Euryale growled. Nobody needed to get involved in a fight now, not so near to the volcano. They would be fighting Inquest soon enough.

An Asura waved excitedly to them from the wall. He rushed out to meet them, nearly tripping down some steps. He stopped short of the Charr. He looked nervous until he saw Ajjai. His face lit up in a smile, his ears rising.

“You made it! I was beginning to worry.”

Ajjai hopped down to introduce everyone. “Valter, Euryale, I’d like you to meet my Krewemate, fellow genius, and inventor extraordinaire, Grimm Von Bolt.” Without waiting for everyone to exchange pleasantries she turned to him. “Which golems did you bring?”

“My usual trio, I also brought DOLPHA and REX. DOLPHA is waiting if we need her. I have EINS and RAMMUS.”

Ajjai sighed, shaking her head. “ATX-010 and AZR-100 are not ready. I told you. ATX is unstable and AZR isn’t much better. Are they in the fort?”

Grimm looked down sheepishly. “Yes.”

“How’d you manage that?” Ajjai had her hands on her hips as she leaned closer to Grimm. A look of suspicion and curiosity flitted across her face as her ears swiveled forward.

“I,” he hesitated, peeking to his Krewemate, “I didn’t tell them the whole truth.”

Ajjai gave him a narrow eyed look of disbelief. She looped her arm through his and they waddled towards the fort together. Valter and Euryale followed. The Asurans would have to power up all of the units. It would give them time to catch a second wind.

The Order members were eager to exchange news with the Charr visitors. Valter told them of recent festivals near his home. He shared what he could remember from a Lion’s Arch bulletin, mostly rankings of pit fighting teams. He recalled something about a new ship, to be named in honor of a departed hero. He glanced over to the Asurans while he was talking with the others. Someone from the fort was helping them power up IKE and BOWSER.

Once all of the golems were powered up Ajjai climbed onto REX and Grimm strapped himself in to his golem suit. The heavy machines stomped from the fort. Stealth and speed were not an option. They would have to reach the volcano, find a way down into the crater, and fight through however many Inquest decided to be in their way. Along their journey they would be looking for Takka.

Ajjai walked beside Valter, or rather, jogged, refusing to be a follower. She also did not want to be near Euryale. The female glared at her with open hostility. Provided everything went well with the Tribune they could be on their way before sundown. Time was of the essence.

The door to the Tribune’s office whirred open. It intrigued Ajjai enough that she almost turned to inspect it. She had business to attend to first. Curiosity could be satisfied later.

The Tribune was a massive Charr with black fur. She knew of him, having read everything she could about Destiny’s Edge. Rytlock Brimstone was a Charr not to be trifled with. He liked no one. But, he had liked Snaff. He looked at Valter then to Ajjai.

“What is this mouse doing here?” He pointed to Ajjai, but addressed Valter.

Valter saluted his Tribune and stammered nervously. “S-she’s a friend, sir. We have done some field work together.”

Rytlock growled. “Well, what do you want?”

“Ajjai has requested my assistance. I have not spoken to my warband yet, but I wanted to let you know I, at least, would be going with her. I apologize for the inconvenience.”

Rytlock eyed Valter then glared at Ajjai. “Well?”

“It’s a rescue mission of a personal nature. A friend of mine has gone missing near Mount Maelstrom. I am going to find her.” She told him, not yet ready to bargain with him.

“I still have to release him before he can accompany you.” He growled as he leaned across his desk.

She folded her arms. “An exchange. My services for his.”

He considered her. “We have no use for you.”

Ajjai snorted at him. “Nonsense! I am sure you could use an extra hand in the field. I am-“

“Useless,” he finished and snarled at her.

Using Valter for leverage she hopped onto Rytlock’s desk. She growled back at him, her charming demeanor worn out.

“Now you see here! Valter and I have worked together, extensively, in the Brand. I am not intimidated by you or any other Charr.” She had shuffled across his desk to stand in front of him.

The big Charr assessed her then began to laugh. “Very well, mouse, an exchange of services. Now get out. I’m sick of your face.”

Before she got off his desk she pulled a pin from her pocket and left it for him. Valter and Euryale saluted their Tribune.

Rytlock called to Valter as he left. “That mouse is rubbing off on you, Valter.”

The door shut behind them. Valter led the way. He had to speak to his warband now. Euryale would come with him, he knew, but the others would remain with the legion for whatever mission the Tribune had wanted them there for. Afterwards, they would pack and leave for Mount Maelstrom. Ajjai would take care of the necessary travel arrangements in the meantime, as well as contact someone who was waiting for them. Valter decided this might work out, he was itching for action, something aside from Ascalonian ghosts and Separatist fighters.

~~~
Inquest Incursion ~ Part 2

“I need your help, Valter. I want you to come with me to Mount Maelstrom.” All humor had fled the Asura’s face. She was serious. “Someone important to me has gone missing there and I am going to look for her. I want you to come with me.”

She was expecting trouble if she had traveled all the way to the Citadel to ask his assistance. “What is there? Why are you worried?”

Ajjai did not immediately answer, her lips pressed into a tight line. “There are three main concerns,” she ticked them off on her fingers, “Risen, Krait, and Inquest. On occasion there is a problem with destroyers, but the Inquest provoke that.”

He looked at her. “Which one do you think it is?”

“Inquest.” He knew there was bad blood between Ajjai and the Inquest. She had told him they had claimed she had stolen a design for her golem from them, and until an investigation was completed they were awarded her design. She’d fought to prove ownership of the invention, fighting not only the system, but the Inquest at the same time.

“We can’t help you.” Euryale said, joining the conversation. “The Tribune summoned us here for a mission. We can’t just leave. We have a duty to the legion.”

Ajjai bared her teeth. “I’ll go by myself!” She turned on Valter. “I thought you’d said you would help whenever I needed it. I’m asking you now.”

Valter stared into her cloudy blue eyes. He liked them better than the demon masque she wore with her armor, which changed them and made them glow eerily. He saw determination, having expected nothing less from her, but also saw hope begging him to come. Euryale would not be happy with him.

“I will come with you, Ajjai. I gave my word.”

Euryale exploded, roaring at him. She made a lunge for him, but Ajjai intercepted. She smacked her nose with her scepter, glaring at her. Valter stared at the women. They were nose to nose again and growling at each other. The Asura was either crazy or had guts, but he was not about to let his two best friends fight.

“Euryale, please sit down” He tried to speak calmly. “Please sit, before Ajjai’s minions decide she needs protecting.”

Her head whipped towards the minions with a growl. She backed away and sat down heavily. Valter turned to Ajjai. He sighed.

“We will have to speak to the Tribune. He will not be pleased.”

Ajjai folded her arms. “I can deal with him and no! I will be polite. I can be charming.”

She thrust her chin out mulishly at his dubious look. He sighed again as he shook his head.

“Very well, let’s go tell him.”

~~~

Melloroch lay on the ground after his defeat, out cold. Ajjai climbed up his back to stand on his head.

“Stupid! Stupid! Stupid!” She punctuated each word with a stomp on his head. “If you pick a fight with me again I’ll pull your whiskers out! I’ll shave your tail!”

She hopped off his head, her back to him. His eyes were open now. He flashed his fangs and growled at her. She was not cowed. She whirled around, whacking his snout loudly with her scepter and awarding him a black glare. He yowled, leaping back from her. Valter rubbed his own nose sympathetically. She’d whacked him a time or two before as well.

“I’ll knock your teeth out!” She snapped and waved her scepter threateningly.

Melloroch rubbed his nose, ignoring her now. Ajjai waddled over to Valter. She folded her arms as she frowned up at him. She was always in a sour mood, except when she was cooking or an Asura she liked was around. Valter liked her anyway.

He grinned as he picked her up by her head. “Hey Shrimpy!”

She squealed, kicking her feet and trying to swat at his hand. “Valter! Put me down! RIGHT NOW!”

He chuckled as he set her down. They were always picking on each other, but the small Asuran female was a bully. She growled and put her foot down on his toes. He noticed she did not do it as hard as she normally did. She bared her tiny teeth at him, but that only made him grin.

Ajjai ran a hand over her hair to make sure the buns had not come loose. She did not look up as Euryale stalked closer. Her flesh golem lumbered over to crouch in front of her. She clambered up to sit on its shoulders. She was nearer to eye-level with Valter now. She scowled at him. Why was she so angry today?

“Shrimpy what are you doing here?” He asked as he folded his arms.

She shook her head. “Not here. I’ll explain somewhere more private.”

Euryale growled and bent nose to nose with the Asura. “Whatever you have to say can be said here, rat.”

Ajjai growled back at her. “Back off kitty! I’ll bite your nose off if you don’t remove it from my face.”

Valter roared with laughter and pulled Euryale away from his friend. “We can go to the room I’ve been given while I’m here. Shrimpy, meet Euryale. Euryale, Shrimpy.”

The women eyed each other. Ajjai folded her arms, looking down her nose.

“My name isn’t Shrimpy, McPitterpaws!” Euryale looked over to Valter with surprise as he groaned. “I’ve heard a lot about you, Euryale. I’m Ajjai. Pitters and I have done some missions together.”

Euryale began to grin then laugh. “You’re good in my books Ajjai.” She looked over to Valter and snickered. “McPitterpaws.”

Valter snarled. “This way.” He stormed to his room.

He did his best to ignore Ajjai. He was furious she’d called him that in front of Euryale. Now he’d never live it down. Euryale might not say it in front of the rest of the warband, but she would use it as blackmail. She would make him miserable.

Valter entered first, dropping onto his bed. Euryale took the nearby bench. Ajjai remained on her flesh golem’s back. She peered around the room. Then she pulled a crystal out of her bag, fiddling with it for a moment. She tossed it into the air, saying a sharp word. It flashed, blinding them, and then glowed a soft blue.

Euryale growled as she rubbed her eyes. “What was that for?” She asked as she blinked away spots. “You could have warned us.”

Ajjai sniffed as she hopped down to sit on the floor. “I was making sure nobody would hear us.”

“What’s with all the secrecy?” Valter asked. “Why are you here anyway?” Then another thought occurred to him. “How did you know I was in the Black Citadel? Euryale and I arrived just this morning.”

She grinned at him. “Sriyil.”

He grumbled, leaning against the wall.

Ajjai waddled through the streets of the Black Citadel. She drew some stares and a few Charr glared at her with open dislike. What they thought was of no concern to her. She was here to find her friend and if that meant shaving the fur off a few overgrown housecats she would not hesitate. She paused at a corner before continuing to the Blood Legion quarters. For her own peace of mind she summoned her minion brigade.

Normally it would have been comical to see an Asura in the Charr city, but Ajjai had a very unfriendly air about her. Whoever dared cross the tiny female would find themselves having an extremely bad day. Her eyes glowed unnaturally through the demon lenses and left red marks around her eyes. She stopped again to look up at a sign and her lip curled in a quiet snarl. It was approach Tribune Brimstone or find a legionnaire in the Blood district. Sriyil had said Valter had arrived, but not where he would be.

As she approached a Legion canteen several Blood Legion stomped out. Her bone minions squealed, scurrying closer to her. The Charr warriors turned to look down at her. The largest of the bunch, an enormous, spotted male, growled at her. Ajjai growled back at him as he turned to walk away. It was stupid, she knew, because the Charr would take it as a challenge – and he did. He turned and roared at her.

Another Charr grabbed his arm. “Melloroch, she’s an Asura, she doesn’t know better.” This one was female.

Melloroch jerked his arm free. “I don’t care. She challenged me!” He growled at Ajjai. “I’m going to enjoy pummeling you into the dirt.

Ajjai pulled her weapons free. The stolen Inquest dagger crackled with red lightning in her left hand. She smirked. This might just be what she needed to relieve some of the stress that had been building ever since she’d returned to her lab in Rata Sum. They moved away from the canteen as more Charr began to form a ring around them. The female Charr that had spoken looked at Ajjai then left.

~~~

Valter was just reclining on his bunk when Euryale burst into the room. Startled, he bolted upright, reaching for his sword. He relaxed when he realized it was just her.

“You shouldn’t surprise me like that, Euryale.” He reproached her as he lay back again.

“Valter, you need to come. There is a little Asura fighting with Melloroch. He is going to crush her!”

“Why does that matter to me?” He grumbled.

Euryale swatted at him. “It’s that Necromancer you were telling me about! She’s got those eyes, the glowy ones!”

“Ajjai?” He wondered at that. “Now why would she be here?”

“I don’t know, but if you don’t do something you’ll never find out.”

Valter sighed, dragging himself out of his bed. He was tired from traveling. He’d wanted to relax a little before they reported to Tribune Brimstone. He grabbed his weapons then took off out the door after Euryale.

They had to shoulder their way through the crowd. Many, many Charr had gathered to watch the fight. Melloroch was a big warrior and well known. He wasn’t exactly the brightest Charr in the Blood Legion, but he knew how to get a job done. Word had traveled fast how an Asura had challenged the most vicious warrior in the legion ranks and was holding her own. Now everyone was trying to watch the spectacle, placing bets on who would win and how long they would last.

Valter groaned when he finally caught sight of Ajjai. She stood well back from the other Charr, commanding her minions and using weakening curses on Melloroch. Blood flowed between his plates of armor. Ajjai did not look as though she had been touched. He held his breath as he watched the warrior charge her. She dodged at the last second, when he could not abort his attack or turn to follow her. He crashed into the wall of Charr behind her.

“I’m putting my money on the Asura!” Euryale called over the noise.

“What are you doing?” Valter growled at her. “That’s my friend in there!”

Euryale grinned. “If all you have told me is true then this is an investment, not a gamble.”

He grumbled. He did not doubt Ajjai’s abilities. It even became clear she was toying with the warrior. She would allow him close then send him running in fear or dodge his attack. Eventually the fight boiled down to an all out brawl between Melloroch and Ajjai’s minions. Ajjai won, of course.

~~~

I love that Lord Faren piece, it looks amazing. Of course, I love your Sylvari too. They’re my favorite race (which is why I have 3 that make up my 9 characters lol).

Leg up please. So that’ll be roughly 70g, correct?

I’d like to commission my two mesmers with a forest scape if possible.

“Is he getting worried Kyos? Is that why he sent you?” She asked the bird as she stroked its feathers. The bird made an awful noise at her and tugged a loose strand of hair. “Hey watch it! You’ll make me bald! Go back and tell him I’ll be home soon.”

The raven left and Kit turned to face the other three, who were staring at her with open curiosity. Kit smiled crookedly. She hooked her fingers through her belt as she sat in the window.

“A friend has a raven companion and he sent it to check on me. I should leave before they come to find me themselves.”

Queen Jennah smiled to her. “Thank you Kit, we appreciate what you are doing for us. Congratulations again on your win at the tournament.”

Kit looked at the Queen for a long moment. “Next time throw it open. Invite everyone to come, especially the Charr. I’d like to go up against their marksmen.”

Kit disappeared out the window before they could reply. She had a lot of practice monkey-ing around. Now she just had to hurry to find her friends before they sent out a search party for her. That would not go over well for the palace if they did. The Captain would find himself with his hands full. That thought made her grin. This was going to be fun. She’d have access to Captain Logan Thackeray of the Seraph. She would be able to pick on him regularly!

~~
(The second screenshot is Kit’s “bandit” look. Yes, that is the skin for The Hunter.)