Lumikki of Iceberg

"Within the ice, time doth flow."

”Is that so…” Lumikki growled, her temper for the sort was rather fleeting. ”Yea, from what I gather my Revna. Seems to me that they are smuggling Talaz throwaway in your boarders again. Figured you’d appreciate to be in the know before it causes more problems.” Gunvald chimed, his words were merry with usefulness and know-how. Out of Lumikki’s flock, he was the best at being in the know when it came to scouting. And as such, he often extended his expertise where the other ravens fell short.

“Something the matter my Lady?” Alvis inquired as he was pouring her tea. They were in the new Guild Master office, sorting some matters of the move before one of Lumikki’s ravens flew in. Now Lumikki sat at her table with a snarl on her face, dampening the mood they held prior. ”Talaz Lagaar,”
was all she could bare to utter but it would enough for Alvis to understand. Even prompting him to hurry the cakes and sweets to the table so that it joined her tea. “I pity the fools then,” he’d sigh as he set down the plate. “How long until you set out?” He stepped back as he asked, waiting for her to settle into her snack before committing to an answer.

Lumikki sighed after a few bites into her strawberry cake, the cream was quite fluffy and the berries rather ripe. ”Where are they Gunvald…” The sweets helped to deflate her anger but not restore her patience. Alvis knew that the Demoness would surely take off the moment she finished. ”Far off in Groenvollr plains in a cavern tucked rather well in some mountain. Shame for them, they couldn’t keep out of a bird’s eye. My flock shared with me the location, so when you are ready, I’ll gladly lead you.”

With eyes showing her fatigue, Lumikki would simply nod. Accepting her bird’s service, she sought to leave as soon as she was done. “I shall look over the paperwork while you’re gone then. Anything you want me to prioritize first?” Alvis walked over to her desk with the stack of papers. Sifting through the assortment there. ”Sort the living quarters first and foremost, and the residential permits. I need the shops looked over and approved as soon as possible to get the folks settled in and open for business. There’s a lot there sadly, so have Erica help you.” Alvis nodded as he got to work, remaining silent from then on to focus on the task and leave Lumikki be.

She appreciated the silence and enjoyed the rest of her meal. Rising from her seat soon after and pulling a special key from her realm. Gunvald would glide from his spot to sit atop her shoulder, perched and ready for the crossing. And Lumikki would turn the key in her office door only to open the way to another place entirely.

”Shall we?” The High Jarl prompted. ”Oh we shall,” cooed Gunvald, who was giddy with the prospect of all the impending carnage.

 

"In stillness, sometimes we grow."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"Never stop searching..."

After a little bit of rest the two bandits were back at it, testing several different codes and getting locked out after too many ‘wrong’ tries. Truth be told they were closer with numbers than they were with anything else. It was amazingly annoying to the both of them. They had no idea that the crows had found them earlier, never had any idea that they were under scrutiny from upon high. They had figured themselves safe, even taking time to try to clean up after themselves.

They were being smart in every sense of the word; until magic was involved. Until her damn flock was involved. Paradise dawn moving into the reaches of Iceberg still wasn’t registering as a threat for many of them. Some of the smarter ones packed up and left, some outright refused and some were clueless about the danger they posed. Even more so the danger that was posed by none other than the Guildmaster and current high Jarl.

The boss huffed a little bit and hefted an axe, ready to try to smash the tablet looking screen and forcing open the device they had spent six bleeding hours on so far. The smaller younger bandit stepped infront of him hands raised. The older bandit scoffed…

”Step aside!”

”Look damagin the stuff inside is a bad idea, what if it’s a bomb or something?”

The boss paused, paled a bit and looked at his axe. Creating another explosion that took out talaz laagar was a bad bleeding idea. Tossing the axe to one side he’d huff. It’d land with a loud clang before the boss leaned down to read the ‘inscriptions’ on the device. He doubted something named ‘discovery’ was a bomb but… A whole stupid country put themselves out to pasture with their tech and this could be one of those things with a failsafe.

”I hate to admit it but yer probably right in the idea of hitting it with an axe being a bad bleedin idea. But okay mr “wizard saint” what do you think we should do huh?”

”Send a runner to your… spec… spec… Eh… that guy you said could open it?”

”Ah piss… I don’t want to give him twenty percent but… Tch. Blood thors hammer fine. We’ll send a runner after we try a few more codes. How’s that sound?”

”Sounds good to me boss. Should I get some more mead?”

”Yeah might as well. Tell the others get some themselves too. This is gonna be a long bleedin night…”

The man scratched his head and watched the kid run off. Frowning a bit he’d shake his head. They were barely twenty winters old and here he was being nearly twice that. The kid having all sorts of good ideas made the older bandit feel like he was losing out by being a bandit but here they were enjoying the finer things…

”Maybe our luck is turnin around and we can sell this thing to some rich bastard.”

He’d run his hands along the exterior of the pod, inspecting the silver material. He’d frown slightly as he could feel a bit of a tingling sensation along his fingers with that. When he had touched it with the bar or the other tools he didn’t get any sensation. What was he dealing with here…?

 

"I'll save them all..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"Within the ice, time doth flow."

A boisterous chuckle rumbled from his chest and boomed throughout the air. Bo Dahl, Jarl of the southern lands and protector of the Groenvollr plains, was now lumbering over to the petite Demoness. ”Fair winds and firm ground, High Jarl,” his voice bellowed as his clear-sky eyes fell upon her. He wore a warm grin that made his features more inviting despite the dirt on his chin. It was evident that he had returned from the fields, assisting the other farmers at their work. But he dropped all of that to greet Lumikki soundly, as he was a man of proper honor despite his lack of Jarl-like decorum.

Bo halted his stride for a moment, drawing the rune Algiz in the air with his thumb and slightly nodding in her direction. Both signs of respect and good faith, expected of a man so well beloved by the people of the south. ”Now what brings the good lass herself, all the way down to my yard? In truth, I didn’t think I’d be seeing you so soon. Then again, I know you’ve been hard at work sewing and reaping things in Iceberg.” His joyful face slowly hardened into a more serious one, ”so I can only wonder what brings you of all people down here in person, with no word prior about some visit.” Right to the point, Bo wanted to know if there was any dangers. Being the vanguard of the local farmers, he couldn’t afford being too relaxed.

Lumikki was actually eager to see him again, out of the other Jarls, he came off as the most wholesome. Traits she still found to be rather endearing, and so it sadden her a bit to see the smile sour. ”Relax Bo, nothing creeping in yer fields from what me flock says; but there are a few bandits just around the bend that I came to see for meself. They’re hauling junk I don’t particularly care for, and till I have warriors properly trained—or know the threat mind ye—I just felt I’d rather come meself is all. Course it never hurts to pay ye a visit if I got the chance either. Would it be too much to ask for a dinner tonight? Can’t top a meal from Groenvollr.” Lumikki leaned forward slightly with a grin on her face. Trying to soften the implications of her sudden appearance to sooth her friend of his worries.

It took a while for him to take it in, but he’d soon get it. With a small sigh, he’d return to his smile soon enough and giddy to accept her request. ”Sure thing Hrútr, I think I’ll fix the stew then myself. Make sure its nice and perfect for ya when you get back….but” He now looked a tad worried, his bright eyes somewhat dimming a bit. ”Are you really planing on walking in there alone? I mean, I can spare the men, or even just be the only one to join you.” A groan rumbled from his lips as he pulled his posture back and ran this hand through his hair. It was clear just how much this made him feel uncomfortable, especially with his role as a protector. Despite knowing Lumikki’s nature and strength, as he saw her, she simply looked like a small girl. And though he’d hate to offend her, he refused to be silent before his worries were.

Lumikki matched his sigh and took a step forward. Her hand gently patting his arm. ”Lend me yer most trusted if it calms ya Bo. But I like ye best here where ye could stay vigilant. Sides, I’m waiting on the stew ya’ve mentioned and this shouldn’t take long.” With an outstretched arm Lumi pointed toward the mountain that made their lair, disclosing the destination of her work. ”He could come back and settle out a team to help clean the contraband after the fact. After I’ve gotten a look around it all first to make sure it’s all safe to even move. But with me birds to watch over, we could save all of that for the ‘morrow couldn’t we. So don’t over stress it now.” It took a moment but it was enough to calm his fears. Bo’s head was nodding repeatedly as he took it all in. And sure enough his smile would return in full. ”The wisest as I expected, and I already know just the man for the job too.”

                             

The pair walked in utter silence with nothing but the man’s steps making sounds as he trudged the terrain. His feet disturbing loose stones as he hauled his burly body along the rock side, meanwhile, Lumikki with all her agile grace hardly made a mess as she walked the path. ”Ye know lad, yer permitted to speak to me if ye’d like. I don’t think me so removed that silence is the only thing befittin’ me company. If there men about, me ravens would now. Sparing us the aguish of an ambush. So then Eirik, as ye as good as Bo says?”

Eirik whose attention was both rather focused and elsewhere, tensed upon hearing the High Jarl’s voice. Being around Bo was one thing as he was quite the grounded man, but to encounter Lumikki was another. In truth, he didn’t know what to say but it seemed that wouldn’t slide in the Demoness’ company. At first he racked his brain to figure out how to answer, not yet knowing her temperament or nature. To him, she was an utter stranger. A foreign concept, another being; but he was no coward, and he didn’t loose his poise. So with enough thought, he finally eased himself into an answer. ”Forgive me High Jarl, your presence be somewhat imposing. As for Bo—hah—he doesn’t look it but he could big sometimes. Still, out of the lot, you are safest in my care High Jarl, I assure you.” His voice was a steady as his pace, the airs of a warrior. Though he was not dressed in fancy furs or armors, his scars painted a better picture of his merit. Even if Lumikki didn’t need him, she was content to have him along all the same.

A soft chuckle left the mages lips before she turned to look at him, her gaze veering high as he towered over her petite frame. ”Pleasure to have ye Eirik, but just call me Lumikki instead.”

"In stillness, sometimes we grow."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"Haven't woken up yet..."

They still had no idea the threat that was coming their way, the boss had a good time alone with the pod. He wanted to hit it so badly with the axe to see what was inside but the kid had a point. He knew it was a bad idea but he would be damned if he didn’t want to just try once. Hefting the axe the man raised it up only to find the youngster stepping into the room with two flagons of mead, a big smile on his face but the second he saw his boss his face fell.

”B-Boss! Don’t-”

With a grunt the boss slammed the axe down against two things happened in an instant. A loud sliding metal on metal sound and the boss’ axe shattering at the head. The boss’ brows shot up and he’d look between the pod then his destroyed axe. The younger bandit’s jaw dropped and the two of them shared a look.

”...Well it wasn’t a bomb I guess. But that axe was expensive. Guess I’ll use my cut on this thing for a new one… Tch. Shoulda listened to you the first time.”

The younger bandit sighed and handed the flagon to his boss before sitting on the table staring at the pod. It hadn’t moved, hadn’t gotten a scratch and the two of them were still as stumped. The two of them had barely taken a drink when one of the watch men sprinted in. Looking pale as the driven snow and half as alive.

”B-boss we got a problem…”

”Spit it out.”

”Well one of the scouts said they’ve been seein a lot of birds…”

The boss shrugged at the idea, grabbing onto his axe haft that was left. About to raise it up to whack the idiot of a watcher. Then pausing and frowning for a second, tilting his head to one side. Birds? That was weird.

”What kind?”

”Didn’t get a good look, but I’d think ravens? Crows maybe?”

”Ah… piss. Might be havin a visitor or two comin through town then soon. Maybe we should lay low… But… Send our scouts out, find out if there’s a rich trader or some other kind of wealthy bastard comin through.”

”But b-boss. What if it’s the-

”No buts. Just send the scouts. Birds aren’t a problem. Just don’t hurt em and they’ll leave you alone. Same with whoever owns em.”

The boss shoo’d away the watcher who looked a little frustrated. When he was out of range the boss drank the whole of his flagon down and slammed it against the table. He’d sigh a little bit and shake his head. There wasn’t much he could do against this was there? He had heard some things about the birds arriving before a certain High Jarl or that there were flocks that reported back to her. If it was the latter they were probably safe but if it was the former…

”What was that about boss?”

”If it’s just some birds lookin around we’ll be fine. But if it’s who I think it is, Scouts are dead. Watchers dead. We’re dead. But might as well keep fiddlin with this damn thing to see if we can get it open. Maybe it’ll be some big ol weapon we can use to level the playin field.”

The boss shrugged and walked back over to the pod, running his hand over the top of it. Frowning as there just… was no real good way for them to open this was there? He’d fiddle with the screen on it but there was still a countdown from last time they tried…

”Hope they decide to take the long bleedin route and not follow the trail we ‘left’... might of fixed it but witches and the like have pretty strange powers.”

The two of the bandits shared a look and the younger of the two handed his flagon to the boss before going off to refill the other one figuring that the older bandit could use it. The boss stood there for a little bit, staring at the froth at the top of the flagon before draining it down.

”Been a good season, would be a piss poor way of endin it now…”


 

Lumikki of Iceberg

"Eerie befalls the one to hear a raven’s song"

”Many men were spotted leaving the lair. We’ve got eyes, but we know nothing more.” One of Lumikki’s ravens called out, their flight just a few meters from the pair below. And the chorus of croaks all confirmed the news. ”Are they armed? Do they look like they’re seeking a fight?” Lumi inquired urgently, needing the answer so that she knew how to move on. ”They were dressed to hide in the snow and rock, but there were any weapons apparent on them. The flock guessed that they aimed to visit the towns, only because they left in the directions of them. If they know you’re here, we don’t know.”

”I see…..Keep an eye on all who leave so that we could scoop them when the time comes. As such, be ready to point them out when Bo sends his men. I also want the location on the closest one, I think I want to get a word in.” Lumikki responded while her eyes combing the mountain face. It shouldn’t be long until the man pass now considering they were just at a town themselves. But if there was anything there for them, she couldn’t guess either..

”Very well my Revna, I shall lead you now…” With a final croak, the raven lost some altitude, with a low arcing glide that lead in the direction of the man she sought. Lumikki turned over quickly to Eirik, knowing quite well that he could easily be confused. ”There’s been men spotted, unarmed.” She wanted to ease his worries of an attack first before delivering all that she knew. ”I don’t now if they are scouting the mountain or running errands, but we’ll be meeting with one quite soon. But first, we should become harder to spot, shouldn’t we…” As she spoke, she held her palm out. All the shadows tucked into the folds of their clothes, the silhouettes of her flying birds made with dark cast along the ground, and all the darkness tucked in the crevices of snow and earth, all warped at once, pulling toward her very hand. Save for her own shadows, both white and black, with the edition of the man’s being torn and ripped from him until it sat as a ball of darkness above her palm along with all the other darknesses. In her next swift movement, Lumikki tossed the orb just about the pair, letting it explode and unravel into a sheet like veil of sheer darkness. It fell upon them, obscuring them both until they couldn’t be seen by those outside her magic.

Eirik was bewildered. As a man who never saw magic in a country and culture that weren’t so keen on how it worked. He did not know what to expect, nor that was happening. And what more, he didn’t expect it to be so terrifying and yet so…..beautiful. ”I-is that so High Jarl…” The pleasantries washed away as he tried to recover his capacities. The man was still somewhat shaken. ”Aye, it is Eirik. Now keep close if ye still want to see me.” Lumikki said before reaching out an arm to take his hand. Her skin was cold on his, and he’d recoil just a tad. The chill didn’t bother him per se, but that her hand could be this cold yet lively was unnerving. This was a his new High Jarl. A being, if he could even call her that, far removed from what he knew. But Eirik was no fool, he wouldn’t allow his thoughts to linger and longer. She was on his side, and what more, he was on a mission. This was all he cared about now.

”Very well Lumikki, let’s go.” When Eirik spoke before, it was clear that he was shaken, but how his tone was far more calm and warm. The man was still stirred from the interaction but he was grizzled enough from his long years to know how to reaffirm his resolve. Deciding to think nothing more of it for the moment, he took the Demoness’ lead toward the man in question.

The pair traveled swiftly. Nothing was left of them but their steps in the snow when they couldn’t avoid it. And in ten minutes of time, they finally encountered the man mentioned. He was wear a white cloak with a tinge of blue. The rest of his garments were a deep grey or black, and his face was hidden beneath a mask that covered his mouth and only left behind his eyes. Compared to Eirik, his movements were rather swift and graceful as he step upon the stones like knew each and every single one. And with his concise movements, he would have dashed past them. If not for the intervention of Lumikk’s magic of course, and with the swing of her hand, a talon scoped him into its clutches.

Eirik kept silent, minding his distance to the Demoness. While Lumi whisked the veil away so that she may now be seen. “Wha—what is gong on….what has me?” The man squirmed in utter confusion. He was entirely confused as to what was happening, and in Lumikki’s sudden appearance, he was at a loss for what was going on. “Who ar—what are yooou‽” He clammered, but he couldn’t move. He was stuck ever so tightly in her bind.

”Not important,” Lumikki answered. Her tone rising in pitch as she spoke, giving her words an eerie tone despite the friendly sound of them. ”But perhaps you could confirm something for me?” Her voice was turning cold now, and the man could feel it.

____

”This entrance is hard to notice, I’d admit. If we weren’t lead here, I’d have never seen it.” Eirik ran his hand along the stone of the opening. The lair was but a few more steps for them now and soon the Demoness will see for herself the ware that they kept within. The man they encounter was left alive, he laid unconscious upon the snow awaiting more of Bo’s men to retrieve. Lumikki had long sent a note, along with the hint of all the others and the means to find them. Now the pair only focused on what was before them, the real danger. A hideout riddled with relics of mayhem from Talaz Lagaar.

Lumikki tried to take the first few step, but Eirik’s hand would grab onto her shoulder and halt her. ”Forgive me High Jarl, but I would prefer it if you let me go first. It’ll be for the best, you safety is of the most importance.” His solem and serious tone told her all she needed to know, that this would be a pointless discussion if she entertained. And such, she’d let it go. Taking a step back as a gesture of her compliance. ”I suppose yer right Eirik, but take care. Either way, know that I could heal ye should ya need it. Though, maybe it’ll be best if it’s not just the two us making ground. Would ye be so kind sisters?” The moment she spoke, the two shadows stretched from where Lumikki stood before breaking and swimming through the ground. Eventually they rose as two bodies in Lumi’s likeness and scoured the halls in search for all the dangers inside. To which, they knew the task was to bind or incapacitate all they see.

”We’ll take the path they hadn’t”, she point to the hall right ahead. The one that so happens to eventually lead them into the chamber the Boss resides.

"Get lost in the gaze"

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"Countdown Countdown..."

The various bandits that had been sent out in one way or another met with individuals that they had not expected to. Many would surrender immediately, some would make a break for it. Not wishing the law to find their necks and a faint few would draw wicked blades more meant for nasty stealthy kills than open fighting. Many wouldn’t last against well trained opponents and others would just simply give a good fight until they were taken out. Many of them were rough and tough but…

Everyone ran into someone that they couldn’t hold out against eventually and such was true for the man that Lumikki caught; a scout one with a preference for fleeing rather than fighting. He was skilled in his arts and had lived a good life under his current boss but his luck was at an end. Faced with an insurmountable foe he did the only thing he could to survive. Was it the right choice? He’d find out later if at all.

Turning in the other bandits and a lair was a pittance to pay to keep living even if he was knocked out by the High Jarl. He hadn’t immediately recognized her but many of those in the hills wouldn’t have a clue unless they had good eyes and ears in the lands. Or were well aware of the social currents in the land. Something the boss himself held which is why he recognized the danger his crew was in and did his best to get most of them out of the hideout.

Inside the lair the pair of bodies would find a fair few bandits in there, some playing cards. Others napping and others not listening to their boss; would they find their end at the touch of these individuals that lumikki was able to draw out? Some resisted, likee the man winning the pot. Complaining he never won nothing and now he was going to get arrested?

The young bandit came around the corner; empty flagon in hand. Eyes widening upon seeing Lummiki and Eirik. The bandit stood there for a second, dropped the flagon and threw his hands up in the air well above his head.

”I ain’t lookin for trouble yer Highness lord Jarl. Ah uh. The boss is right around the corner.”

He’d jerk a thumb around the way, stepping to one side and looking away. He wasn’t armed and the way he paled from seeing those two would be easy to see he wasn’t itching to fight either of them. The youth gulped a bit and if they left him be he’d just sit down against the wall; all color in his face had drained from just encountering those two.

Inside of the bosses room he stood there inspecting the cargo pod, he’d turn his head as though he could sense the arrival of the two. His eyes studying the both of them and a small frown formed on his lips. He was old, much older than most of the bandits that were around. A once village elder no doubt, plenty of scars and wisdom beyond his years. Though he was kind of stupid trying to continue banditry in the new reign. A hand on one hip and the other rested on the cargo pod.

”Well if I live and bloody breathe. It’s the High Jarl; makin good on that word I take it? Spose my gang is the first?”

He didn’t look bothered by this fact but unlike the others he wasn’t going to go quietly. Drawing out some blackened steel; stuff you’d only find in the touch of draugrs or their nasty equivalents. The axe was just a plaything in comparison and he’d give the two of them a little bow.

”Who’s gonna be the one to gut me then?”

He figured himself for a deadman, there was no escaping so he might as well go out fighting. Maybe he'd be able to give one or two nasty scars to one or the both in front of him. The cargo pods screen's countdown ended and he'd let out a little irritated huff.

"Figures the damn thing unlocks now..."

 

"Tick tock tick tock~"

Lumikki of Iceberg

"Eerie befalls the one to hear a raven’s song"

Swift and silent like deathly shadows, the sisters would seize the residents of the lair. Binding or blinding the encounters with their magic until all in their path have been subdue. With Lumikki aware of every man they’ve crossed.

Meanwhile, the Demoness and her escort have taken their route slow, and have now encountered a man who dropped a flagon from his hand. ”Is that soooo, lad.” Lumikki cooed, her eyes intimidating with their piercing glow, and she could see just how anxious he was. To the point where she could taste it. Soaking in his fear, Lumikki’s gaze shifted to the mug overturned on the floor. ”Bring me two of those. I’ll be having a word with that boss o’yers.” And with that, she passed right by him to do just that, only to see a much older man hunched over an odd contraption.

”Greetings Bjorn, lovely name by the way. I have a sentimentality for bears ya know, but what more, it doooes seem to invoke a sense of respect one would an elder of some community. Guess it fits ya still despite leading bandits.” It would just so happen that his name suited his former role in life, and yet the bear was not without his claws. ”Yer a fool if ya think I’d callously cut me own Bjorn. Simply, yer now in me care and me debt. Yer men will be sorted by the Jarl in the near town and put to work again. As for ye—,” Lumikki heard the ring from the pod. The strange object on the ground now commanded her attention. She’d step past the old man to inspect it for herself, but Eirik was sure to keep between her and Bjorn just in case.

”Ya dabbled in dangerous things…” Her voice shifted to one more irritated, now seeing it with her own eyes rid her of the good mood she just had. The air chilled in her ire, enough where one could see their breath. Shorty after, the sisters returned from their crusade, like silent sentinels hovering along the ground with half opened wings. Their eyes went to the old man, solid black, solid white gaze. For now they lingered where that were, but kept in range of the old man should he move.

Lumikki sighed, ”Ye too would be assigned a new purpose Bjorn, but among yer men, yer debt would be the largest.” Lumi then bent over to inspect the pod, not quite knowing what it is. In all her studies of their machines, something like this didn’t show up in the books of their library. Eirik however extended a hand out of reflex, trying to pull her back from what he felt was far too dangerous. It wasn't until the last moment that he managed to hold himself back, leaving his hand to hover just above her shoulder.

"Get lost in the gaze"

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"Am I dreaming?"

The younger bandit gulped at hearing her speak; he wasn’t about to have his head lopped off or some nonsense like that for this bandit group. It had been great sure but it wasn’t worth dying over something minor right? The piercing glow was enough to make him look away further and seeing the mug… He was worried that she was maybe going to berate him for dropping it; but instead she wanted him to get two? He shoot back up with probably one of the most lopsided stumbling mess of motions with his arms that you could think of; a salute maybe? Or just him being glad that she wasn’t moving against him.

”Yes Lord Jarl ma’am Highness jarl. Ah uh. Right away!”

He’d stumble off; looking pale as driven snow. He was smart sure, but he had no idea how to handle honorifics. He wasn’t going to use the flagon on the floor for sure but he picked it up and went with it anyways knowing that he’d catch some flak from someone if he left it there.

In the bandit leader area the boss held that sword up high, ready to swing the moment that they made their move. He wasn’t about to… His face shifted from determination to surprise then to a frown. He.. wasn’t that well known he’d figure. His eyes followed her as she moved and spoke.

”You do all you can to survive. Including sacrificing cubs to make sure you survive another winter. I’m not proud of everything I've done High Jarl. But it’s kept me and my boys alive. You can thank my mother for the choice of the name; was my fathers too. Where'd you get yours?”

He didn’t like how she was moving, didn’t like how Eirik did too. He’d step away; gritting his teeth. Blade held leveled at the two; he was sure that they were going to try something but he’d flinch at that statement. Dangerous things? How dangerous was that? The strange device sat there, the timer had stopped and there was that little entry pad that was available. Some other symbols sat there greyed out as the ‘code’ needed to be entered to start up.

”Ah… I’m back with the… flagons you wanted your erm… Eminence?”

”Just call her the High Jarl or something Kid.”

He’d sigh a little bit as the boy had returned with the two flagons that lumikki had asked of him. The bandit boss would slide the sword back into the sheathe and glare at them. He’d ease over to the two and blinked at seeing the two sisters; the boss didn’t look pleased at being near them either. He didn’t trust them and well… they probably didn’t trust him either.

”Dangerous thing? What is it a bomb or weapon or something? Tch. The blasted thing is locked, some code is needed to open it and we don’t know it.”

”He even tried to smash it open and it…”

”Broke my favorite axe.”

The man shrugged and crossed his arms. Staring daggers at the two that stood oh so close to the thing he was sure would have made him rich beyond belief. If only he had any idea what was truly within he might have reacted differently… But he had to ask; something that had been bugging him.

”Is the high jarl here for us. Or that?”

He’d motion to the pod; the entry system blinking slowly as though wanting lumikki to enter something into it. There was no security past the long time between entering passwords so what was the harm of trying something? The pod itself was ‘simple’ and something much more was beyond it’s coils; something that… “Alive” But dormant.

 

"I don't feel I've lost..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"Eerie befalls the one to hear a raven’s song"

The tinge in the old man’s tone was slowly grinding on the Demoness’ patience. Enough so that a chill condensed around him. Biting his at man’s fingers, ears, and nose to the point of almost claiming them with frost. And the cold air was sending a pain down his throat as his body struggled to warm it fast enough for his lunge. I’d remind ya to watch yer tone. I said I wouldn’t claim yer life but I could easily change me mind. For Icebergain, I extend me generosity, but don’t assume I’m distinguishable from apathetic tundra just outside this lair’s walls.” Her tone was harsh and sharp as she wanted the disrespect to end there. Hlaðguðr tried to wash over the frustration by sending Lumikki feelings of calmness and the refreshing sensation one would get from their first swig of drink. And in a gracefully yet swift gesture, she’d take the two flagons from the boy’s hand, her head bowing ever so slightly as she sauntered to Lumikki’s side. Handing both the Demoness and the man their jugs to enjoy while positioning herself by the probing mage.

Svanvartr on the other hand, wasn’t as kind nor calm. With sharp movements in comparison to her sister, she’d near the old man. Circling him as if on the verge to find a moment to attack. Lumi would do nothing to advise Svanvartr against it, instead she’d leave it to shadow to act out as she pleased. ”Thanks,” Lumikki called out to the boy, she raised her flagon to mirror the appreaciation before sinking her attention back to the pod.

With on deep gulp, Lumikki downed have of her drink and handed the flagon to Hlaðguðr to hold for the moment. Then, she’d run her hands along the smooth surface, trying her best to dig any thoughts or memories of what it could be. From experiences and old text, she knew this wasn’t a commercial model. It wasn’t something typically mass produced from the island to assist in a task to slay a foe. But the movement from inside would bring her back to the days when she visited the hospitals and encountered something in a more metallic form. Was it a weapon or was it a servant, Lumikki struggled to decided. Yet there as a calling she could not quell to try her hand at the number pad. If only there were more indicators of its purpose or maker on the slick and rounded surface. Something to go by or bank on.

Lumikki held out her hand, taking back the flagon and downing the last of it in one further go. By then, Eirik was getting nasty himself, wondering what their plan was now. ”Let’s get things sorted..” the High Jarl spoke almost absentmindedly. She wandered to the table and pulled a pen and paper from what seemed like thin air. Eirik blinked in confusion but pushed it off, watching as the woman wrote out a message rather quick an erratically. She folded the page and handed it over to Hlaðguðr, to whom she need no share a word. ”Eirik, Hlaðguðr and Svanvartr are gonna help ye collect all the bandits and bring them to one pace and with the message I wrote, the Jarl should have men to collect them shortly. If they don’t comply, handle ‘em accordingly.” Lumikki pulled back and looked at the old man once more. She stepped over until she was mere inches from his face, eyes so cold and blazed with light that her inhuman nature was clearly on display. ”Both Bjorn…ye were aware of me displeasure and ya did it anyway.” Lumikki finally pulled back with her gaze shifting, taking to steps back toward the pod before looking back to the man. ”If the rule of the land was always that the strong prevails, then ye know all that’s here is mine….” There was no levity to her words, no charm, no kindness, no humanity. There was just a beast taking claim of what she felt owed. If he understood his foolishness then, one could assume the wisdom of his age had finally settled back into the forefront. If not, then the mage having already met a lady of death, didn’t mind send another to her door.

Lumikki paused as those in the room left, staring at the pod as they shimmied out the door. Now that it was the two, she’d grab a chair and drag it over. Its legs scratching the ground as it slid until finally she let all four touch ground again and took her seat. With a deep sigh, Lumikki touched the keys. Trying the most typical sequences she’s read when back in Talaz’s library. Many things sent to be bought has defaulted codes, so that the buyer could access the device quickly for use. And so her first try was “0000”.

"Get lost in the gaze"

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"Who we want to be..."

He was used to people throwing their weight around, the heft and intenseness of their blows or bodies often leading to cracked skulls or spines. But here? He felt the frost and almost found himself swearing; he felt that chill more rapidly than anything that he could ever dream of. The old man coughed after she spoke to him; the harshness of her tone reminded him that her decision to ‘save’ him was a courtesy. He’d bite the inside of his cheek; looking as though he was quickly put into his place finally. Annoyed but… willing at least.

”You won’t get it again from me High Jarl.”

His voice was a little raspy from the sudden drop in temperature; the two flagons he watched with a moment of interest noting that it was their mead. Low class for certain but at least it’d warm the chest. He’d note that the one carrying it was… oddly friendly to the boy while the other. Well he’d lean his head back; eyes narrowing slightly. His hand twitched but other than that he’d just look away; not daring to meet their eyes.

”Ah. It’s my pleasure yer- Ah! Right. High Jarl.”

The young man had finally worked out of his nervousness and went to go stand near his boss; looking pale as hell but the older man sighed a bit. So this was their lot then? With the attention on the pod the two of them would likely be like this for a while. The pod itself had plenty of information on the outside in regards to people that would know where to look. The letters were a play on ‘discovery’ and the simple pad was meant to make it easy to access. There were only so many numbers that could be entered in it after all. The man sighed a bit as he felt her eyes on him; the inhuman nature and the sheer coldness had him flinching.

”The pod landed in what I considered my turf at the time High Jarl. I had been under the assumption that no one would miss it. As for my… well. Crew. They’ll listen. Especially after seein those two.”

He’d shoot a glance at the two companions that lumikki had with her; he’d bite his lip after a moment and then bow his head. Urging the boy to do the same before leaving with them. He wasn’t about to stay around this pod especially with the ire of the high jarl in place. Hell he was lucky she didn’t take him twice over now. The bandit leader was quickly humbled; hell he doubted that his sword would have ever bit into her if they had fought. Especially with how quickly she had ‘frozen’ his extremities.

Left on her own the pod would sit there dwelling; there was a number of codes that she could use on the silver, platinum and blue colored device. The keys would beep cheerfully as they were pressed; unable to contain their glee at the touch of someone new or not. The typical sequences were the most likely, but Lumikki would quickly find that the simplest entry was not one that would give way to success. The screen flared red at the entry rather than the pleasing blue and a number of tries indicated on the screen.

ERROR. INCORRECT PASSWORD. TWO TRIES LEFT UNTIL SAFETY LOCK.

The message remained for a few long seconds and then slowly faded into the background; lumikki would be left with the number pad again. The pod seemingly humming in content with the companion of the hour. There were so many codes, so many possibilities. From within the gleaming instance of numbers from earlier seemed to tick into creation… Her eyes and power would have gleamed a simple number of “02”. But what were the other two digits?

Pressing further would just unravel the riddle; but she was always free to guess.

eyes answer:

"Is nothing compared to who we become..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"One is an Omen, Eight for a wish"

Lumikki glared at the metallic contraption while black frost was creeping along the floor; as if her frustration had decided to take form and the low of light of the room was beginning to dim on cue with her growing temper. Meanwhile, the pod flickered its own shine, with the screen and touch pad taking precedence as the main glow left. So when it washed Lumi’s face in a bright crimson hue, the remaining contents of her flagon froze just before she tossed the cup onto the floor.

It was unusual that the Demoness lost her temper, in this regard, for this reason. The bubbling anger in her chest and throat would usually subside onto a stagnant chill. Like the surface of a lake hardening from the tundra frost sealing the dark waters down below. Yet now, she was heating up with anger and disgust, erupting with fury and dissatisfaction.

Why is this here….?

She wondered to herself. The thought would echo in repeated succession within her mind.

This should just be destroyed, not looked over…..

She reasoned with herself, and it was a sentiment that rung true; and yet, why didn’t she. There was an odd feeling that she felt deep within her. A gnawing sensation that pulsed ever so subtly that she wasn’t even aware. Something that called to her to invite this thing into her world and let it exist when she would logically prefer to be rid of it all together.

Lumikki sucked her teeth, finally deciding to reign back her anger, she tried again. This time with another common pass code she remembered reading about in the old manuals she encounter in Talaz Lagaar. Her fingers, in a languid motion as to stifle her fury and strength upon the keys, would press her second sequence of numbers. This time inputting “1234”. Lumikki sat back, sighing as she awaited the results. Only to be slapped with the red lights and flashing text once again.

ERROR. INCORRECT PASSWORD. ONE TRY REMAINING UNTIL SAFETY LOCK.

“WHAMP!” The sound of her fists slamming down upon the surface with all her strength and despite her hefty blow there wasn’t even a slight dent upon the surface. The metal proved too strong to smash even by her power, so even if she wished to pry it open, that could prove a bigger hassle. What more, she only had one try remaining until the infernal lock was sealed, and she already exercised the two most common options.

How hard did they make this if the bloody thing is designed to be bought…. Lumikki loosely mumbled with words so spaced and broken that it couldn’t be understood at all. And the darkness of the room was now swirling at her feet and rising to her temples. Wafting and smothering her figure until it coated her skin and peeled back as feathers. Her brown skin now subtly shifting to hues of the night while the color was slowly draining from her face, save for the red that bounced off her visage in an almost ominous display. The golden pupils of her eyes shone like bloody amber.

As Lumikki dragged her talons along the unyielding surface, she took another look at the markings that cluttered its sides. Hoping that by properly analyzing the contraption, she could gleam a better combination for her final attempt. Hmmm, 02…. Lumikki pondered, but only for a moment as her mind raced rather rapidly right after. As if she could somehow cross reference those numbers amid the many she’d read before in typical default pass codes. Only to fail promptly afterward with just a couple of minutes in her thoughts.

So Lumikki pressed on, titling the pod to get a better view from every angle, only halting when she noticed Model:01. ”—Can’t be…” she hissed as she steadied the thing. Her eyes glaring onto the touch pad once more. Yet sure enough, as she inputted 0102, she had her answer with the infernal thing finally reacting.

At last she wasn’t met with neither red nor failure. But then one could wonder soon after. What is it that she was met with then?

"Pity those who hold the gaze of me flock."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"User set up"

The frustration that crept into the room was palatable; the infuriating nature of technology and it’s many rules was something that not everyone would want to deal with. The fact that the high jarl was even giving their time to this strange pod was one that not many could follow. Would the boss or the boy even have any idea why she was actually interested in it outside of not belonging here? It was hard to say. The fury and dissatisfaction was met with a cold  neutralness from the strange device. It didn’t seem to care what she felt; even the blows upon its frame hardly moved it. It was meant to be durable; meant to weather the storm a thousand times over till it was sent to where it needed to be.

The second attempt that she had presented was as close as you could be while still being so far away. It was a safe bet; the anger that was met upon it for that failure wasn’t anything new. There were plenty of people that would try to do the same and fail just as she had. Maybe even locking out the device permanently or for another thirty minutes. There was a longer pause between tries and that error message like whoever had them in their grasps was reading over something.

When the series of numbers was properly entered there was a distinct tone of success. No error message played and the hatch popped open with a hiss of steam from either end. The hatch slowly slide back folding in onto itself. There was a thin film of plastic over something resembling a body that was curled in on-itself. Another distinct tone played; like one of a peaceful alarmclock. The jingle was relaxing and slowly the ‘something’ would uncurl, stretch as though waking up and pulling off the plastic sheet.

The being was positively massive, easily over the usual height of the denizens of the world. By at least three feet; its animalistic features were friendly and the see through material of its chest, tail and pelvis let lumikki see that it was metallic in origin. It’s arms were made of a dark metal while it’s legs were made of a brighter tougher looking sort. The head was on a long furred neck and the ‘beast’ lacked any sort of mouth or eyes until the ‘mask’ flickered to life. A ‘mouth’ and two blue lights played the role of those features. A crackle of audio played out from the pod one last time before it shut off.

”Enjoy your purchase of DSK-0vRI, model 01.”

The ‘beast’ looked around for a moment. A scanning feature from its skull taking in its surroundings; long ears perked and whiskers flowed as it tried to understand where it was. A distinct pinging sounding from it as it ran through some garbled noises till speaking in a dialect not too off from what lumikki had been speaking in earlier.

”Hello. I am DSK-0vRi. Model 01. What is the emergency? And if there is not one. What is to be my role?”

The beastial machia took a step out of her pod, long legs, floating arms and a long sinious yet athletic build. She even had curves to accent everything; whatever mind had built her thought of many things. She looked warm and friendly even though you could clearly see her bones through the synthetic body. Her eyes scanned over lumikki and she’d tilt her head quizzically to one side. There was another processing ping as she had another query to process and present.

”If there is not an emergency currently ongoing please set username and set password.”

She was pleasant and polite, nothing like you'd expect from the country where people often seemed to think they knew everything. She harbored no ill will, hell she didn't even seem to harbor any sort of will of her own. Clearly pleased to be able to be used by someone. Some of what she was asking seemed out of order, wasn't it better to ask to set the username first before asking for an emergency? Or perhaps this was something meant for fast emergency responses...

 

"Please rate your user experience..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"One is an Omen, Eight for a wish"

The solid vessel folded back onto itself in ways Lumikki could not comprehend. Did she figure the thing would burst open like the egg she's emerge from herself? Perhaps it was so. The Demoness only had her own observations and experiences to pull from, yet this contraption from Talaz Lagaar proved vexing like all other relics from that forsaken island.

By the time the steam poured into the air and the creature stirred, Lumikki had already felt rather hallow on the inside. As if this cradled being drained the very life out from her as it reawaken, born anew. Every feature of the being seemed abhorrent, a mockery of any living thing as far as the mage had gleamed. And yet, did that really pull true? It was clear she was stuck in her biases, revolted at the so-called abomination as if creatures like chimeras and more even obtuse amalgamations of spliced animals didn't exist. Their presence was a natural consequence like any other. So what did it matter if now it seemed there was one more added?

DSK-0vRI-model 01, Lumikki toyed around in her mind as she sat slumped in her seat. Her head rested on her arm while she observed the thing's emergence. Its translucent decor was perhaps an unnerving feature to any other, yet in an odd turn of fashion, Lumikki found the see through coating comforting as it reminded her of ice. The skeletal frame, like bones frozen in the harden tundra. This aquatic fish was but a moving glacier in appearance. And Lumikki couldn't help but be drawn to the blues that shimmered much like the cool hues of her own. This vexing machine....at least it is quite beautiful.... Despite its exaggerated height, a gripe Lumikki grew to feel about many in Earthrealm, the charm was rubbing off her. Even the thing's voice sounded soft and pleasant. Yet no warmth had appeared on her face still as her stoic features gave no room for expression.

Role? Lumikki mulled over, repeating in her mind the thing it just told her. That is exactly the question. What is its role?.. Lumikki pressed her eyes shut as she thought it over more. Her face was now squished and scrunched. Before she could gleam any conclusion, however, the polite tone reemerged with something new to say.

Username and password? Lumikki pulled back into her seat with her head tilting up to the ceiling as she gave it some more thought. Over the years of perfecting her craft and reading a lot for the purpose of her studies and fascinations. Lumikki was able to polish her memory. When she was born anew as a Demon, that skill felt as though it ascended as well. Shifting into that what some would  note as eidetic memory. Still, pulling the information she needs at any given moment could still prove to be a pain, like stretching before one runs. She needs a moment to sort the information needed. "Ah" She muttered upon realization, but the requirement for one still puzzled her. However, now that she had allowed this thing passage into this world, its now her responsibility.
"Username-ᛒᛚᚨᚲᚲᚺᚨᚱᛈᛁ(BlackHarpy). Password-ᚺᚨᚠᚷÚᚠᚨ(Hafgúfa/Seamonster)." Lumikki finally answered. Giving the thing a moment to process her statement, before she went on. "Ye are quite a discovery, aren't ya?" She ruminated a bit further before going on. "Explained yer functions and intended, programmed purposes. Disclose any possibles weapons and threats ye possess."

 

"Pity those who hold the gaze of me flock."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"User set up"

DSK-0vRI tilted her head to one side, all of her processing power was pointed to the being in front of her. The rapt attention that the ‘women’ had on lumikki could be considered unnerving. Unblinking, there was no sound of life from her save from the slight shift of weight as her body measured the floor beneath her passively. One of her hands slipped to her side while the other rested on the pod; ears flicked and her eyes tracked the area. Scanning? No. It seemed to be cataloging something for future use. Was it taking in the surroundings just to see if there was anyone here in need of assistance?

The massive ‘woman’ noted that the user that had woken her pulled back into their chair. A thoughtful movement; they were likely trying to see if there was an emergency. The soft mutter had her ears flicking forward. That was typically a human indication of thought. Then there was no emergency; she felt her systems start to spool down from their heightened state. Her kind was typically used during emergencies so they are always woken in preparation for that.

Her translation software kicked in and the machia perked up as the username and password was set. Repeating the words out loud to confirm was what typically came along with setting the passwords; but rather than repeat them outloud she’d display them on her face instead of her ‘face’. Leaning forward to speak.

”Is this correct?”

Her spelling was immaculate; her translation software clearly was keyed towards every major race and country. There was no room for error and rather than speak in any other sort of tones the woman had immediately adopted the accent of iceberg without fail. It was quite surprising as her hollow tone before had stank of her home. The ears shot up again and the motions she had turned to ponderous ones. She’d nod her head.

”Correct. I am a Dsk-0vRi Model.”

She didn’t seem to understand what Lumikki meant by “A Discovery” instead believing it to be a query of sorts. However immediately the machia was presented with some general queries she was all too happy to share. The smile on her ‘face’ was genuine and she’d start to list off her functions, programmed purposes and her weapon allotment along with her ‘threats’.

”The Dsk-0vRi model is a Military rescue class, meant for high altitudes or deep depth ventures. My current attachments recommend depths of the ocean until upgrade parts are found. My programmed purpose is to function as a rescue unit, I am to assist in both retrieval and medical aid to parties as ordered or in the case of natural disasters.”

The unit turned to scan her pod for a moment before nodding and turning back; she didn’t see any military equipment in the pod. She was just a ‘base’ model as it sat. She’d go ahead and share the next part of her users queries.

”It seems that my pod does not possess any Military suppliments, so my baseline threat is simply reduced to what my body is naturally capable of. However a Dsk-0vRi model may gain supplemental equipment military or otherwise. My current weapon loadout does not contain anything other than what you see here. My arms, tail, head and legs. I currently have three open slots in: Weapon primary, weapon secondary, Chest Primary, Head primary. I can however fill these at the users discretion.”

There was a pause at that last part. A ‘threat’? The Dsk-0vRi unit paused again, processing fully the query and turned to her pod. Taking the tablet out of the pod and tucking it away into her chest; the tablet folded up in the future and Discovery would crouch down. Without even pausing she’d pick it up off of the ground, her servos didn’t even groan as she tossed it to one side having it crash against the wall and almost creating a crater with the weight of the pod. It was still undamaged amusingly.

”I am a high class military and rescue Dsk-0vRi unit. The threat that I pose to normal individuals can be classified as overwhelming. To the current user I would classify my threat as negligible. In terms of combat my 2 ton weight, physical strength and motor functions could put most to shame. I could have quite easily killed the ‘boss’ that had tried to enter the password into the system 138 times in less than a minute. He is registered as a Class C threat.”

There was another pause as she calculated something else…

”The registered individuals in this cave outside of three unknowns that were present with the user would have in total taken ten to fifteen minutes to clear out. I would register them in total as a Class D threat and classify myself as a B rank threat.”

There was another long pause as she processed the queries presented further; ‘possible’ weapons. The list of which appeared in her display and started scrolling. Every instance of equipment she could wield was listed, it was quite… comprehensive.

”There are roughly over two thousand registered weapons that I could employ and this number skyrockets if you would include the other equipment slots my frame has User.”

Her face turned into a small loading symbol and she’d tilt her head to one side. Ears perked and the being’s arms straightened slightly as it looked like she ‘updated’ something in her lists. A small tinge of red was at the edge of her visor for a moment before she shook her head.

”Would the user like to set a designation for this Dsk-0vRi to refer to her by?”

Something was a little off with the mammoth of a beast, but it wasn't a surprise. She had been in the void and then in the cold for a while. Some things were bound to change and some things were... well. it was hard to say exactly how much had changed since she left her home.

The soft whirring of her servos and the thud of her shifting steps indicated that she was a little nervous. Likely because of her introduction into the world or perhaps how many errors and strange things were in front of her. It was meant to be endearing in a way and the unit would look up, the sound of metal hitting the top of the cave resonated in the area and Dsk-0vRi seemed confused.

"...May I ask a question?"

 

"Please rate your user experience..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"One is an Omen, Eight for a wish"

"Aye, it's correct discovery." Lumikki grunted, with no pivotal point to latch on for name or means for a nickname, Lumikki's nature to assign pet-names proceeded her as she absentmindedly dubbed the mechanism as such. After all, this thing was indeed a discovery among the fodder one could encounter in Iceberg, or the stashed products of Talaz Lagaar.

Lumi bobbed her head as the polite and feminine voice slowly answered all her questions in a way that one could call, meticulous and thoughtful. The crisp use of her words and the clarity displayed when listing her features and notable capabilities were somewhat refreshing. It felt at times like she was surrounded by people who she would feel were people who weren't strong in communication. Their short comings often needing to be filled by her insight and understanding. Yet this thing had the intelligence to pinpoint the root of Lumikki's inquires and retorts the information in a solid and concise stream. Albeit, the information was overwhelming. It was a lot of things for Lumi to listen to carefully as she discerned the level of threat the tool could possess. Even by the time the android took the pod and tossed it, the Demoness didn't flinch so much as note the strength of the creature accordingly compared to her own.

"Yes, yes," Lumi murmured as she nodded along with the rest of the analysis. She was finding the mechia's assessment on rank to be rather amusing, but insightful. What more the honesty about their weapon capabilities should they have been provided? "Seems like ye have a sense beyond a normal individual and the confidence to clear a lair. If I assigned ya to clear the hideouts full of bandits and retrieve contraband for me, would ye prove capable? Ye need a purpose, do ya not?--Huh? Designation? Oh, that's right...how rude. I didn't exactly introduce meself, did I? Didn't think I had to. Odd...I am Lumikki Hrutr. High Jarl of Iceberg and heir of the Hrutr clan. It's nice to meet ya, me discovery.--Hmm, what's wrong?"

It was an odd thought, observing an android as they got nervous. How did they program such a sensation, Lumikki couldn't fathom? Were the feelings theirs? Or were the motions animated to function in typical readable ways? "What is it that ye want to know?"

"Pity those who hold the gaze of me flock."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"User set up"

Her movements were fluid, unlike any machine, her motions were of something that lived. Not something metal and unfeeling, the way that her step sprung, the way her hips shifted, the way her tail tapped against the ground or dragged along with how long it was. The fins practically folded in on themselves every now and again. Even her whiskers seemed to be alive; for something that was made of metal and composites not of nature she was very much so so close to alive it might be easy to forget if it wasn’t for… Well everything else.

The ‘units’ head tilted to one side curiously as they were assigned what she could only guess was a title or nickname. Saying her designation over and over again must be tiring for those of flesh and blood. She’d keep that in mind for the future and accepted the name with grace.

”...Discovery. I like it. Much better than Disco or Vivi. I can’t dance and I’m not a flower.”

She’d take in mind that her user didn’t seem to even flinch at the display of throwing the pod. There was a curious look on her face, was her user capable of a similar or greater feat? Her Eyes scanned her over, registering what threat level she could assign to them. From a glance it wasn’t as though she could tell everything about them. But the… cold around them told her that there was magic afoot and that meant much more than the bandits. She’d have to classify them as a threat above her own. Overwhelmingly so.

”It is my nature to understand the threats one or the environment possesses in order to serve as a rescue unit-”

There was a pause a slight click of a thought; a slight whirr and her servos seemed to jitter for a second. A small flash of red across her features and frame before she’d shake her head again.

”-...If the bandits were to be of the similar threat level I would estimate a ‘lair’ taking no less than 16 minutes to clear if they are of similar size. Mostly from walking and having to see if-”

Another pause and the unit would frown. Hopefully this was hypothetical right? No. Her designation and her function was to be what her user wanted. The frown vanished and she’d perk up a little bit, a slight jitter of red crossing her face again.

”-if anyone of those groups were hiding. I could retrieve contraband without issue, unless it weighs several tons I could lift it with ease. I do need a purpose-. Ah. Normally you would not Lumikki Hrutr, High jarl of Iceberg and Heir of the Hrutr Clan however my connection to local servers have been severed and unfortunately without them I am only able to access my local databanks.”

She looked a little frustrated and her ears flickered a bit as the other seemed to be all right with her answers before and her functions. But she had to wonder… Was this the first time that they had found a unit like her? Or were there others?

”Have you located any of my other units? There are 499 other Dsk-0vRi units out there currently and if they are in the same state as I was they may need assistance. As my function and designation is determined by you I understand if you would prefer me not to seek them out.”

There was sadness and a hint of uncertainty in her voice; for a mechanized fish otter thing it was incredible that she was even able to display half the range of emotions that she had so far. She went to scanning the room and found herself frowning again.

"This cave is rather unsafe, if you dug in too far the entire thing could collapse. I recommend we relocate to a safe distance; there is a safe point 100 meters from here that would be unaffected by any collapse that might occur."

 

"Please rate your user experience..."

Lumikki of Iceberg

"One is an Omen, Eight for a wish"

Lumikki chuckled at the machia's fumble. The thing was both articulate and naïve, a combination that served her well as it was slowly winning the Demoness over. "Set me preference as Lumi when ye call me lass. It'll save ya the mouth and me the patience." Lumikki rose, abandoning her seat to look over the pod one more time. "Hmm? Servers?...Hmmm, oh right. On that island of yers, that's how they kept their magic organized. Of course, the maintenance of such a thing was taxing. Doubt any servers survived the mess of the void, though." Lumikki had a silly and impulsive. A strange notion to somehow engineer a server of her own if it meant organizing her information reserves; but she would slaughter the thought as soon as it came. How could she, of all people, employ such an archaic notion? Yet she was entertaining this thing...With a deep sigh, Lumikki sauntered over to the strewn pod and began to look at the internal details for more clues.

"For better or worst, yer the first I've seen and encountered. Haven't heard reports of others either, but the world outside of the island isn't as interlinked. There aren't means of instant communication everywhere, to an extent. We have a means to pass word throughout the world, but it doesn't mean we do." Lumi turned over to look at Discovery, pondering the point of it all. "I think finding those models ye've mention, would make fine priority. The more we collect, the less I have to worry about their abuse or threat. If this is yer worry, then I assign this as yer main quest for the moment. Of course, ye still gotta help me with other things, but we could would it all out in time." Lumikki snapped her fingers, swallowing the pod into her hidden void for safekeeping and later analysis. She thanked the Gods that the library in Talaz Lagaar survived when so much of the thing exploded into the void.

"I'll humor ya Discovery. The men should be here any moment now to collect the bandits, we could discuss more when I take ye back to me guildhall. For now, if anyone asks, ye've simply become me assistant. How does that sound?" Of course, she already began walking to the door, expecting the large fish to follow her. And as the mage thought, it did not take long for the bandits to be sorted.

"Pity those who hold the gaze of me flock."

DSK-0vRI of Talaz Laagar

"New registered task..."

”Setting user preference to “Lumi”. It will make it easier to refer to you then. Are there any other titles or the like I should be aware of?”

Discovery watched Lumikki go over to the pod; magic and technology were indistinguishable from one another the further either advanced. Technology could mimic the very foundations of life for example while magic could power abilities one could only dream of. She’d blink at the mention of the void and there was visible worry on her face.

”Mess of the void? Did something happen to Talaz Lagaar?”

The pod like ‘Discovery’ was very much so well built and meant for just that single occupant. It had some charging ports and some other wires that discovery must have popped out before getting up without noticing. Without the tablet and the occupant it was largely dormant. She’d cross her arms and thoughtfully process what Lumikki had to say in regards to her. The first of her kind to be found outside of the island; communication was lacking in this world and discovery found herself wondering if she would ever see eany kind of her units again. They were a limited sort unlike the maintenance drones and various other equipment.

”I would imagine if one of my fellow units were to appear somewhere that they would very much so… cause alarm if most people are like the ‘boss’ or ‘boy’ or the three unknowns.”

Finding those models would make a fine priority. The more that they wouldn’t have to worry; that would be her main ‘quest’ her first and foremost priority. The unit’s ears perked, her face turned to a loading screen a little ping could be heard. In her hud a number would appear in the upper right ‘1/500 units found’. It’d fade out after a time so that it wouldn’t get annoying down the line.

”I will make sure to see if I can find anything of use Lumi. I will help as you direct. It is unlikely if I am to be honest that anyone would be able to open up the pods without the correct passcodes. Even if they are set to be user friendly 138 tries did not yield anything to the ‘boss’ and his ‘boy’.”

She could feel her user’s eyes on her and she’d cock her head to one side. Watching her pod being swallowed by some hidden void had her freeze into place. Her processing took a moment and she’d inspect the floor where it had been. She’d ‘blink’ a half dozen times before running a hand along the floor.

”Fascinating…”

Discovery would pad after the mage, pondering what she had to say in regards to her role. Assistant? The robotic ‘fish’ seemed to perk up at that idea and nodded. There was no hesitation; she knew what a guildhall entailed and what a guild was.

”An assistant to mistress Lumi! If only my other models could be as lucky. I like the sounds of it, I’ll do my best!”

She was excited at the prospect and as they walked she’d have to duck here or there as the ceiling hung low, the first time she smacked her head so hard that… well it didn’t even scratch but the frame of the ‘door’ seemed to buckle and fall from the ceiling leaving her standing there in dial up as she realized the damage she did.

”...I’ll have to be a little more careful, not many doors seem to be of my size… well. Entry points.”

Seeing the bandits Discovery's eyes flashed and she'd scan over them. There seemed to be some calculations and the 'fish' frowned. Shook her head and turned to lumikki. She seemed to have something to say in regards to the group...

"My calculations were incorrect. Even with travel time it would take Seven minutes."

 

"finding a lost family..."