Owner	Pose
Vitali	There's been a lot of exploration that Vitali has been attempting to do. All of it has been on foot. He's met a few people, which was interesting. But for tonight, he's found himself a little spot within the forest that's near to the road. There is nowhere he's found to stay, and so... he fends for himself. He's cut a few low pine boughs from the trees, and stacked them atop of each other. He's dug a small pit that he's edged with rocks, and he's built a small fire. And atop of the fire, there roasts a rabbit. He sits in cross-legged fashion upon the pine boughs, and his duffel bag sits behind him. His hands rest within his lap, and he has his eyes closed whilst he waits for the rabbit to roast and cook. His eagle is nowhere to be seen for the moment, though she soars above in the night sky to hunt her own dinner after having caught the rabbit for Vitali to eat.
Xiang Zhao	Within the forest, not too far from the camp with the rabbit roasting over a fire, there is another small clearing. In fact, that little clearing is within hearing distance of that camp. Though, the one sitting in it with his eyes closed hadn't really heard anything there on a conscious level. Sitting in lotus position on the bared ground beneath the cover of a tree, the bottom of Xiang Zhao's pale robes gathers about him in a pool. Rising from his still form, a pale mist that glows softly, almost like moonlight playing upon fog. The mist only rises about four inches from his form, and then dissipates, so most people would find him rather hard to spot in the darkness. He's well off the beaten path. Well away from the ivy covered stone wall surrounding whatever is within. Well away from the road leading up to those gates. Zhao might not even be aware that they are there. But to a hunter flying above? He will likely stand out like a spotlight is shining upon him. That mist seems to be originating from Zhao, and his hair lifts occasionally like there's a breeze blowing it up, though no wind blows beneath the trees presently. His expression is serene, calm, almost blank. If he weren't sitting so upright, one might think he's asleep.
Vitali	The rabbit will take time before it's ready for him to eat. He prefers it to be cooked, unlike his feathered companion. He remains seated, comfortable and at ease. Waiting patiently. Listening to the sounds of the forest. And so it is that it's an unexpected thing for the eagle to give a shriek before banking a turn to start to wing back towards Vitali's camp. Vitali's eyes open immediately to the sound, and he rises swiftly to his feet, lifting his hands away from his lap. He glances up towards where the eagle soars, and then his gaze turns in the direction of what had caused her warning to be given. It would take too long to get out any of his weapons, wrapped as they are and attached to his duffel bag. And so he murmurs a soft few words in Russian and makes a slight gesture of his right hand, a spear made of ice materializing there. And with the spear in hand, he makes his way through the forest and towards the strange glowing figure that Soraya had warned him of. If he plans to spend the night at this particular camp that he's made then he'll need to make sure that it's safe before he'll dare to sleep. Stepping through the forest to the clearing and further into the clearing itself, he stops and tilts his head a bit to one side. "Xiang Zhao...?" he calls out, a bit uncertainly, a bit surprised.
Xiang Zhao	Properly cooked food is a must, unless one happens to be starving at the time. Making sure it's safe enough to sleep is also a must! And something Xiang Zhao had done before he sunk into meditation. Alas, making sure it's safe when one arrives does not necessarily mean that a location will stay safe afterward! There, there is no fire. The only light comes from Zhao's form, and that's a very soft light that does little more than gently illuminate his person. The calling of his name gets no respose. None at all. Xiang Zhao doesn't so much as twitch, let alone move. That faintly glowing mist still rises from him. That light breeze still plays with his hair. But it is clearly Xiang Zhao. Or an exact copy!
Vitali	For a moment after reaching the clearing where Xiang Zhao is meditating, Vitali watches. He's fmailiar with meditation, but... this glow that surrounds the other man is a strange thing. Shifting his weight, he starts to approach the other man, getting within arm's reach before he uses the butt end of the spear to prod at the misty fog that's surrounding him. And if nothing untoward happens, he'll prod the other man's knee with the butt end of the ice spear as well. He just wants to be sure that Xiang Zhao is all right. He doesn't even consider the fact that it could be a copy, as it's not a thing that he's seen happen before. He is, at the moment, not concerned for his own camp, though he didn't place any wards within it. "Xiang Zhao...?" he repeats, louder this time.
Xiang Zhao	Nothing changes with Xiang Zhao, except for the mist wafting up from his person. It looks almost like tendrils of some sort of power escaping. Almost like the same effect heat rising from hot pavement has. Only, the lines of the mist can be seen, and it glows softly. Nothing happens at all with the prod into the mist. It simply wafts around the butt end of that ice spear, curling about it somewhat before continuing to rise and dissipate that four or five inches from Zhao's body. He doesn't move when he's prodded in the knee, either. Nor does he respond to the calling of his name again. For several of his slow breaths, nothing happens. Then his breathing quickens, like a sleeper coming out of a dream. A few seconds later, Xiang Zhao's dark eyes open. "Vitali," he says. "Is something amiss?"
Vitali	The mist is a weird thing. Or at least, it's a weird thing as far as Vitali is concerned! He's never seen such a thing before. He watches the way the mist clings around the butt of the spear, and he tilts his head a bit to one side. Uncertain. He retreats the spear, his brow furrowing. He studies the man, taking note of his breathing, and he gives a slight gesture of his right hand in order to make the staff disappear. As the other man's breathing starts to quicken, he shifts back a half a step before lowering to a crouch and settling his arms across one of his knees. Then he tilts his head a bit to one side, at the question, and he grunts softly. "Xiang Zhao," he says in greeting, inclining his head towards the man. "Was strangeness. Maybe normal, for you. Not sure. Mist, with glow," Vitali says softly, studying the other man. "Is all okay?"
Xiang Zhao	That mist could very well be part of Xiang Zhao. Or could be a side effect of whatever it is he's doing. Or might be something else entirely. Once his breathing had quickened, the mist had stopped wafting as much, disappearing after a couple of inches, the glow had dimmed, as though the effect was diminishing. By the time his eyes opened, the glowing mist was entirely gone as though it simply never was. "Strangeness? What sort of strangeness?" It could be normal! But Xiang Zhao's expression is curious. He's not entirely certain what sort of strangeness is being talked about here. Then it's described. "Oh." There's a quiet chuckle, and Xiang Zhao's lips curve up ever so slightly with it. "That is a visual manifestation of my power. Méishénme. It is nothing unusual."
Vitali	The mist could be a number of different things. But it never hurts to be a bit on the careful side of things. He watches as the glow fades, then as the mist seems to withdraw, his brow furrowing. And then the mist and the glow are gone entirely. He tilts his head a bit to one side, remaining crouched. One of his eyebrows quirks up at the chuckle from the other man, and there's a flicker of curiosity that chases through his eyes. And he notices the smile, too. Then he blinks, at the explanation, and he gives a small nod. "Ah. Many sorries. Did not realize. Did not know. Soraya warn of strangeness. Had to come, see. Make sure safe. Make camp near, she try to keep watch," Vitali says, his tone apologetic.
Xiang Zhao	It never hurts, especially if one isn't certain whether a thing is good, or bad, has evil or good intentions. It always pays to be wary of things one isn't certain of. "Méishénme," repeats Xiang Zhao. "No apologies are necessary." Now it's his turn to be more curious too. "Soraya?" That is a name he doesn't recall hearing before, as is obvious from his questioning tone. Then, he studies the other. "You cannot know if you do not learn," he says, tone soft. "You cannot learn if you do not seek or ask. One must seek answers to gain knowledge. Knowledge only comes with effort." He seems to understand where Vitali is coming from, at least.
Vitali	Unfamiliar things are dangerous until proven safe. "Méishénme," Vitali repeats, his brow furrowed a bit as he tries to be familiar with the word. It's... a strange word, at least to him. He gives a small nod, then lifts a hand to point one of his fingers towards the sky. "Da, Soraya. Eagle," he says softly. He takes a moment, concentrating, and he gives a soft whistled note. It takes a few moments before there's anything visible to happen, but the eagle lazily wings her way over before landing lightly on the ground nearby. Then she clicks her beak, tilting her head to one side and looking towards Xiang Zhao. He gives a nod towards the eagle. "Soraya," he says, then looks to Zhao. He shifts his weight slightly, lowering to his knees and settling his hands on his thighs. "Da, is true. Must learn. Everything new, all around," he says softly, his tone thoughtful. "Never easy, to learn. Ask right questions, hope for knowledge," he adds, settling.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao nods. "Méishénme. It means 'it is nothing'. It is used when there is nothing wrong. I am fine. Or whatever is going on is unimportant." Explanations are always good, right? Right! "Ah. You did not give a name for it, on the beach." There also wasn't a proper meeting of the eagle at that point! The sound of the wings flapping is something Xiang Zhao hears before he ever sees the bird. It's pretty dark in this section of forest now that the glow from his power has faded. He takes a moment and moves his hand in the same motion Vitali had seen the last time he'd called fire. And fire comes, floating above his palm. He keeps it away from the other, because he knows the feelings about it. This allows him to be able to see the bird once she has arrived! "Beautiful bird," he says. "We call them Xue sun diao. Boot falcon. I see them sometimes in the summer." He considers what is said about knowledge, and lifts one shoulder ever so slightly. "Learning is easy," he counters. "It is learning the right things that might not be so easy."
Vitali	The Russian man tilts his head slightly to one side at the explanation of the word, and then he gives a small nod. "Will try to remember, da. Am glad you are fine," he says softly, a smile coming to the corners of his lips. He gives a small shake of his head, then, a bit of colour coming to his cheeks. "Da, did not. Should have. Many sorries. Soraya travel with for many years," Vitali explains, perhaps a touch sheepishly at the start. He expects the fire that's summoned this time, and so he doesn't startle from it, understanding it to be controlled. The eagle tilts her head to one side, looking to Vitali then to Zhao. "Da, she is. Thank you. Is pretty name to say," he says softly, giving a small nod. "Xue sun diao," he adds, trying to repeat it how it had been said. Then he gives a soft chuckle and a nod of agreement, his hands remaining resting in his lap. "Da! Is very much so. Having right questions is harder. Taking right questions from Russian, put in English, is harder," he comments, a bit of amusement in his voice. Sometimes he doesn't always use the words he means, but he tries.
Xiang Zhao	Much like the last time, the fire is a small ball, controlled and hovering above Xiang Zhao's palm. It's the color of normal fire. Zhao listens quietly, nodding about the eagle, then chuckling at that last bit. "Mm. I know the feeling. It is not easy taking those questions from Mandarin and putting them into English either." He closes his eyes for a moment, and inhales deeply. "What am I smelling? Smoke and... Is that.." He pauses, expression thoughtful. "Rabbit being roasted..?" Xiang Zhao opens his eyes again, looking to Vitali.
Vitali	The fire that was summoned causes Vitali no distress this time. He does look to it, admire it, then turn his attention back to Xiang Zhao. Then he tilts his head to one side before quirking a bit of a grin and giving a nod. "Da, is likely equally hard. English feel strange, still. Trying to be better," he says. One of Vitali's eyebrows quirks up at the questions asked, and there's a flicker of surprise to his features before he gives a nod. "Da, is both. Smoke is from small fire. Small fire roast rabbit. Is big enough for share. Hungry?" he asks, a smile coming to his features. "Have small camp. That way," he adds, lifting a hand from his lap in order to point in the direction of it.
Xiang Zhao	"Trying is what counts," replies Xiang Zhao. Much like the last time, he seems to be perfectly comfortable sitting how he's sitting. He considers the offer, and whilst he is doing so, his stomach growls. That brings a quiet laugh. "My stomach says yes, and thank you." He glances in the direction being pointed out, and nods. "I wasn't sure which direction it was coming from. Hard to tell, with no wind." He glances up at the sky, and blinks. "Is it almost dawn? It was sunset when I sat down." It really is almost dawn. Though still dark, the sky to the east is juuuust beginning to show hints of deep blue. Sunrise is an hour away at the most.
Shannon	Some would call the hour pre-dawn. Some would call it oh-dark-stupid. Some would raise a middle finger towards the clock, pull up the blankets, turn over, and go back to sleep.      But at least one person did none of of those things. Shannon was out in the pre-dawn hour for her customary morning run, dressed for the cold weather in some old white sneakers, zthick crimson red pants, a sweatshirt of the same hue, a t-shirt beneath that, a beanie hat and mittens, all the same brilliant hue. There would certainly be no missing her in the snow! Her wings are tucked in neatly behind her, large, white, and feathery--back to normal as they ought to be. Her breath freezes in clouds of steam in front of her face as she jogs on down the road, focused entirely on her morning routine for the moment.
Vitali	"Da," Vitali agrees, about trying. "Not know English for long time. Not many to make practice with," he comments, his brow furrowing briefly. At the growl of the other man's stomach, he raises an eyebrow slightly and gives a soft chuckle of amusement. "Da, would seem so. Are welcome, always," he says, giving a nod to the man. Shifting his weight, he smoothly rises to his feet and then steps closer to Zhao before offering out his right hand. The man doesn't need the help, he knows, but... it's polite to offer. "Da, is hard to track without wind. Mm, da, almost time for sun to greet world," he agrees with a smile. He is often awake early. Old habits die hard. The eagle looks up at Vitali and clicks her beak, and then she hops a couple of times before launching up, spreading her wings and pushing herself up into the air. It doesn't take her long to get to a height above the trees, gliding. She scans the forest, and the road, and she gives a shriek into the pre-dawn. Vitali lifts his gaze towards the sky, briefly, his brow furrowing a touch. "Runner," he says softly.
Xiang Zhao	The glow from the camp fire might not be seen easily from the road, as it's on the ground. But the little ball of fire hovering over Xiang Zhao's palm is another story entirely. It's hovering a couple of feet off the ground while Zhao is sitting in lotus position. Then he places his left hand in Vitali's and rises to his feet. It's polite to accept help when it's offered. That puts the fire hovering over his palm much higher than that in the air. That would be seen easily enough from the round through the trees as he turns to look in the directino indicated by Vitali. He glances toward the eastern sky. "Well. That explains why I am hungry. I had not expected to meditate the entire night." With the eagle's shriek, his eyes turn in that direction, though he can't spot her through the trees and the present darkness. The sky to the east lightens more, to deep blues closer to them, and paler blues further east. "That is a neat trick. Even better than my alert talismans." He glances around, likely looking for the runner mentioned. "Lead the way?" To the runner or to the camp? Zhao doesn't specify.
Shannon	The shriek of the eagle gave Shannon pause. To occasionally hear a falcon's cry, or a red-tailed hawk, was unusual but not unheard of in this area. But an eagle? Yeah, no, something was up. Too, there was the light from the ball of fire hovering above Xiang's hand, plus the faint, acrid tang of wood smoke wafting through the wintry pre-dawn air. Turning towards where the smell of smoke was the strongest, she jogs towards the trees, though keeping far enough away from the edge of the woods to launch easily into the air if need be.
Vitali	The Russian brings his gaze to Xiang Zhao, and there's a smile paired to a nod as the offer of help is accepted. He seems pleased that his help was accepted. He releases Zhao's hand once the other man is balanced on his feet. Then he tilts his head a touch to one side before giving a nod. "Da, is good reason for hungry. Meditation is... good, da. Sometimes... occupy? for longer. Mmm. Not right word. Claim, maybe. Still not right," Vitali says, pursing his lips slightly. Sometimes English is a frustrating thing. He gives his head a small shake, then raises an eyebrow slightly as he looks to Zhao. "Is not trick. Is bond," he says, giving a single nod as though that explains everything. He glances up towards the sky, though he can't see the eagle either, and his brow furrows a touch. And there's a brief glance in the direction of his camp, perhaps considering the rabbit over the fire for a moment, and then he lifts a hand to indicate the direction that the runner approaches from. And it's in that direction that he starts to head, glancing towards Zhao briefly before his attention is back to where the runner is, a bit wary.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao listens to the Russian, expression thoughtful. "No, I think I understand what you're saying. Sometimes I get so deep in the meditation that I forget to come out of it." Sometimes English really is frustrating! But, Zhao understands none the less. "Ah. I think I may have used the wrong word. A trick is an ability one has mastered, yes?" No Zhao. No it's not. Well. Yes, but no. At the indication of direction, he looks curious. That was not the same direction as the camp had been indicated! Never the less, Xiang Zhao nods once, and turns to follow the other man. He tucks his left hand behind his back as he walks. With the aid of the fire hovering over his palm, there are no missteps. "This is not where we come from," he says calmly. "Whoever, or whatever, it is likely is no danger to either of us. I have not run into a single ghost or demon since arriving here. Nor any dangerous wildlife."
Shannon	The winged teen that approaches the camp might seem at least mildly familiar to both Xiang and Vitali, perhaps more so to the former than the latter. However, since the last Shannon had seen Vitali, about a night or two prior, there might be one notable difference. This time, her wings were plainly visible. Not only that, they were slowly spreading out to their full span, just in case she had to take off quickly. Apparently, someone had learned caution the hard way....
Vitali	"Da, yes, this happen, sometimes," Vitali agrees with a nod as he looks over to Zhao. There's a grateful smile as well, for that he was understood. He doesn't always have the right words to use, or know the right words to use, but he tries! He raises an eyebrow slightly at the explanation of the use of 'trick', and he puzzles over it for a moment before lifting a hand to make a 'so-so' sort of gesture. "Is... sort of ability, sort of not? Is... complicated," he says, settling with that but not really happy with his own explanation. Magic made the bond between him and the eagle, but he's not actively using magic to communicate with the raptor. "Runner come," he says, lifting a hand to make a gesture to try to indicate that she's approaching the camp. Zhao's words about this place being different than home does make Vitali stop and consider things, his brow furrowing. "Da, here is not there," he says, agreeing. But his brow remains furrowed. "Are... bad people. Somewhere. Not know where. Umm. Cy-borgs," he adds, the last word spoken with a great unfamiliarity. And he gives his head a small shake, as it's a thing that he doesn't really have a lot of understanding about even though he had healed a man that was shot, which is something he doesn't really know how to explain either. He shifts his weight slightly, then lifts his hands so they can be seen as he looks past the trees. He is unarmed, at least in the moment. "Not have weapons. Not wish harm," Vitali calls out, his Russian accent pronounced. The eagle hadn't recognized the winged teen, and since he hasn't set eyes on her himself, he hasn't yet either.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao has an advantage, at least, in that he knows the wings are there, even if he's not seen them as of yet. He doesn't follow directly behind Vitali, instead moving several feet off to the man's right. There, he follows more or less the same path. The fire upon his palm, while it doesn't light up the Russian's face well, since it's behind him, it does light up Zhao's features quite clearly. "Ah. Is this not a trick, then? Did I get trick mixed up with another word?" He nods about the runner and considers the words offered about bad people. "Bad people are everywhere. What is a cy-borg?" He says the word the same as Vitali had. As they get closer to what the eagle had alerted its master to, the first thing Zhao really notices is those spread out wings. He pauses and looks closer. Then steps forward again, concentrating on the fire hovering over his palm. It grows in size, and illumination, allowing him to see more clearly in the predawn dark. He smiles, then. "Friend, not foe," he says. Then calls out, "Shannon, it is Xiang Zhao and Vitali." Clearly, he had recognized the winged teen, despite the wings!
Shannon	Both voices were, thankfully, familiar to Shannon, one perhaps more than the other. Both names certainly were as well, both eliciting a warm smile from the young woman. Folding her wings in behind her, she jogs a bit to close the distance between herself and the two gentlemen. "Vitali... Xiang... it's good to see you both again. Is everything alright?"
Vitali	"Umm. Am not sure? Am not best in knowing intent of words," Vitali says, looking over to where Zhao walks. "Is bond. Eagle, me. Magic make bond. Speak part of bond," he adds, trying to explain it better. 'Speak' isn't really what he means, since he more accurately means his ability to understand and be understood by the eagle. He frowns a bit at the question about the cyborg, and he gives his head a slight shake. "Not have good knowing. Is man but... not man? Umm. Not all man. Part... -mashina-," he says, trying to explain his limited understanding. "Never see before here," he adds. Then he's quiet, watching Zhao change the fire that's within his control and announce the runner as friend. And with that, he seems more at ease, more relaxed, and he lowers his hands to his sides. And there's a smile that comes to his features as he gives a nod to Shannon. "Is good to see again, too," Vitali says, the words sincere. Then he tilts his head to one side a touch before giving a nod. "Da, all fine. Have camp. That way," he says, lifting a hand to point in the direction of the roasting rabbit smell and the wood fire smell. "Not see wings when meet before," he adds, an observation. He lifts his left arm, holding it parallel to the ground, and after a moment's worth of time, his eagle backwings in to land on his forearm.
Xiang Zhao	With the person identified, Xiang Zhao concentrates and the fire starts to shrink. It steadies at the smaller size it had been before. Zhao's already pale, fair skin pales further, easily visible in the light, and he sways, then stumbles. His left hand comes out to brace himself against a tree he happens to be next to. He stops there as the fire flares on his palm. He bows his head and closes his eyes, brows furrowed as he concentrates on controlling the previously well behaved fire that has suddenly turned into a wild beast fighting for freedom. The fire fluxuates, going smaller but brighter, almost blue and purple, then gets bigger and more brightly red and orange, flaring up and growing smaller at seemingly random. The words spoken by both of the others are given no response at all as he fights to control the fire. It seems to take an eternity, but in reality it takes him no longer than half a minute and the ball of fire over his palm goes out with a whoosh of sound. The only light then is the brightening sky to the east, giving just enough light to see people and objects, though not very clearly, and the little illumination from Vitali's camp fire. Xiang Zhao does not move, eyes closed and one hand planted against that tree.
Shannon	"I had to hide my wings when we met last, Vitali," Shannon tries to explain. "The people in that place... were not good. If they saw the wings, they would shoot at me. Hurt, maybe kill me if they could. They did not like mutants." The smell of rabbit roasting on the open fire was more pronounced at this proximity, making her smile. "Someone is cooking very well," she adds, her tone warm, her stance more relaxed.      Looking to Xiang, she smiles a bit wider still. "If I had known you would be here this morning, I would have brought your guqin to you. It is safe and unharmed. But I would like to return it to you soon." The ball of fire burning, shrinking, and then finally vanishing over Xiang's palm has her smiling wider still, almost like a little child during the holiday season. "No matter how many times I see such wonders, they bring joy."
Vitali	The shrinking fire is a thing that earns Vitali's attention. He tilts his head slightly to one side, glancing to Zhao's face before looking to the fire. Though he knows Zhao controls the fire, he also has a certain understanding that fire can be unpredictable. Fire is always a cause for wariness, and with Zhao's swaying and stumbling, and with the fire shifting as it does, that wariness is something that rises within the Russian. His gaze flicks back and forth between Zhao and the fire, a touch uncertain. He lifts his right hand, and he strokes the eagle chest at the same time as what she ruffles her feathers and clicks her beak. When his hand slips away from the bird, he doesn't lower it back to his side, keeping it instead somewhere around waist level. Prepared, perhaps, if action must be taken, and only a moment away from summoning up water to douse the fire. And it seems to him, as well, to take an eternity before the fire is winked out. It's only once it has that he visibly relaxes and exhales a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. His gaze turns only then to Shannon, and he tilts his head to one side before giving a nod. And Soraya walks up his arm to stand on his shoulder instead. "Da, make sense. Bad people," he agrees, his tone thoughtful. And his brow furrows before he gives a small shake of his head. "Would not let hurt, if could stop," he says sincerely. And there's a bit of colour that comes to his cheeks. "Is rabbit. Some herbs," he says softly, a touch shyly. Simple food. He steps over to Zhao and lifts a hand to touch his shoulder, giving a soft squeeze of what he hopes comes across as reassurance. "Come. To camp. Can rest safe there," he offers, giving a small nod. Rest, sleep, meditate -- to him, it means all the same thing. Then he lowers his hand before looking to Shannon, and he smiles. "Can come. Rabbit is big, if hungry," he offers.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao doesn't open his eyes or move away from the tree just yet, his breathing a little ragged, enough so to be heard now. "Ah. I am glad my guqin is safe," he says, voice softer than usual and sounding more than a little out of breath. He sounds rather like he'd just run a considerable bit. There's a very soft chuckle at wonders and joy. "I will show you that again next time, when I have the energy to maintain it. And perhaps some other things as well, if you like." Wondrous and joy bringing, on occasion, but all magic has a cost. It takes Xiang Zhao several breaths before he opens his eyes again. He still isn't moving away from that tree, though. "I also would not let bad people hurt you if I could stop it," he says, looking to Shannon. Then there's a hand coming toward his shoulder. That's a very big no, as can be seen as his eyes widen, following that approaching hand. That tree that had been holding him up? He pulls his hand back and turns to spin away from the incoming touch, avoiding it all together. The moment he comes to a stop, it becomes evident that doing so was a mistake. Zhao holds absolutely still, as though afraid to move in that moment after that spin. He blinks once, looking confused. There's no warning before Zhao's eyes close and his body goes limp. His knees give and he collapses toward the snow covered ground.
Shannon	Almost immediately, as Xiang collapses towards the ground, Shannon springs into action. She steps forwards and braces her stance quickly to catch him, hopefully before he can hit the ground and suffer harm. For her age and size, she is actually fairly strong, able to carry Xiang if necessary for a short distance, and not easily knocked down. "Vitali? Let's get him to your camp, da?"
Vitali	There are notes within Zhao's tone of voice that Vitali recognizes, even if they aren't overly obvious. Food and rest will help, he knows, but there is nothing that his own abilities can do to help. Magic has a cost, and he's familiar with paying the price of it. The eagle on his shoulder shifts and launches to wing her way amongst the trees, starting to make a wide circle around them. Vitali blinks twice, quickly, at the reaction that Zhao has to his attempt to touch his shoulder, which didn't land on account of that reaction. It was an entirely unexpected thing! Shannon proves quicker to reach and catch Zhao than what Vitali is, though he reaches her side within a only a moment of the other man being caught. And he gives a nod to Shannon's suggestion. "Da, camp close. Come. This way," he says softly, giving a small nod to her. She seems to be bearing Zhao's weight well and without strain, so he doesn't interfere there. He turns then, to lead the way towards his camp. It's in a small clearing, with a small fire at the center. The fire is in a pit that he dug, and it's been ringed with stones, and the rabbit is roasting on sticks above the fire. There's a pile of pine boughs as well, which he'd cut and gathered to use as a resting place.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao is caught by the winged woman. Which is probably a good thing, as he did nothing to catch or break his own fall. And once caught, he is entirely limp and of no help to anyone.
Shannon	Indeed, Shannon has no trouble carrying Xiang to Vitali's camp, though she has to pre-empt his resting place among the pine boughs for her erstwhile patient. She is careful to lay him down as gently as she can on his back, in repose. Her red sweatshirt comes off, and thankfully she's wearing a red turtleneck beneath it! But her sweatshirt is rolled up, and eased beneath Xiang's head as a pillow, with his head positioned to keep his airway clear. Leaning close, she does feel his breathing, which seems a bit labored at first but is slowing down into something more akin to... sleep. A quick check of his pulse at his wrist has her silent for about a minute, and she nods.      "Looks like he just tired himself out. Gifts... can come at a cost, and he's paying his." She smiles lightly, looking over at Vitali. "I can't stay long out here now, I'll have to get home soon. But you are a healer, he would be alright here with you, da?"
Vitali	There is no arguement offered up for the fact that Xiang Zhao is the one who is placed upon the bed of pine boughs. They were for resting, and the other man needs it more than what he does, at that moment. Vitali doesn't mind. The camp also has a duffel bag laying on the ground, and the bag is packed as well as having a couple of thinner longer wrapped items attached to the outside. He steps over to the pine boughs a moment after Shannon has settled Zhao there, and then he gives a nod to her words. "Da, will be safe here. Will be protected. Will do all in power to make so. Harm will only find Xiang Zhao if it take me first," he promises, giving a small nod. That's not very reassuring! But the sentiment is in the right place!
Shannon	Shannon smiles at Vitali and nods. "You sound much like someone else I know. He's also Russian, and very protective. It's for this friend I learn what I can of the language, so he has someone else to speak it with." She watches over Xiang for several moments, just to make certain there is no other sign of injury perhaps she is missing. But when Xiang's color, breathing, and pulse otherwise seem normal--and her own gifts tell her the same thing--she allows herself a sigh of relief. "I hope he's not embarrassed later. He... strikes me as very proud."
Vitali	There's a smile that comes to touch the corners of his lips, and he settles to his knees near to Zhao. His hands move to rest upon his thighs, which seems to be a familiar position for him. "Protective, da. Was... umm... raised to. Taught to. Shaman, me. Try make best for village," Vitali says softly. He knows it doesn't really explain it well, but he still tries. "When have means... and good people have need... is hard to not protect. Xiang Zhao seem like good people. You, too. Maybe meet your Russian friend, speak home tongue. If Fate make happen," he says, a thoughtful tone to his voice. He tilts his head slightly to one side, studying Zhao for a moment before looking to Shannon, and he gives a small nod. "Maybe be. Maybe not be. Fault not his. Fault mine. Make to touch. Fault mine," he says, his brow furrowing a bit. "All things have cost. Sometimes small, sometimes big. Have been prey to limits before. End up same," he adds in an understanding tone.
Shannon	Though the words weren't always there, the intent clearly was. Shannon nods, and smiles softly. "Da. When I see someone in need, it hurts in here." She taps just over her heart. "My healing gifts, they have a cost to me. When I heal another, their hurt becomes mine. But even knowing that cost, it is very hard to say no."      Looking back at Xiang as he rests, she nods, and smiles lightly. "So far, he seems like a good person. So do you. God willing, maybe one day you might be able to meet my friend." Her glacier blue eyes dance with amusement, the winged young woman peering back over at Vitali. "Then both of you can teach me the 'best' words in Russian, da?"
Vitali	There's a soft grunt from Vitali as he gives a nod to agree with Shannon's words. "Da, is true, much," he says softly. There's a glance given towards the rabbit, simply to check on its progress in cooking. His attention turns back to Shannon, and he tilts his head to one side, listening as she speaks on her healing. "Is different, your healing. Must make hard if wound big. If bad. Cost maybe high. But, higher cost if do nothing. Maybe person die. Man we help, without help, die. With help, live. Take... umm... energy. Leave tired. Hungry. Man live. Is good. Healing use water. Body have much, inside," he says softly. He lifts a hand, making a slight push and pull sort of movement. "Can... move. Direct," he adds. Then he lifts that hand to brush a bit of his dark hair from his face, tucking it behind one of his ears. "Best words are worst words, da?" he suggests with a grin, his dark eyes showing a sparkle to them. "Use only for special occassion," he adds with a chuckle.
Shannon	Shannon actually snickers softly, eyes gleaming with mirth. "Da, and be careful who you use those words with." Snickering turns into giggling, and then into outright laughter. "It was very easy for me to confuse a very bad German word once, with a basic tool in a science laboratory. Only one letter different."      When talk turns to healing, she nods, looking at Xiang as he rests. "Da, the cost -can- be very high for me. My own body heals very quickly, though. It helps some, but it is still sometimes dangerous. I am studying to become a medic, with the hope of going on to medical school and become a doctor. Then maybe I can use a mix of my gifts, and normal medicine for the best of both worlds, da?"
Vitali	There's a bit of a grin that comes to his features, and Vitali gives a nod. "Da, careful is important. Never know when someone speak same, understand what said," he says with some amusement. He'd had it happen when he was on the ship -- he'd been muttering something under his breath in Russian and someone near not only heard but understood. "Am not knowing of German. Just knowing Russian, and... most English. Not all English. English still... umm... how do you say? Ah! Work in progress. Da," he says, giving a small nod to her. He tilts his head a bit at the talk of healing, his brow furrowing just a touch, and he gives a small nod. "Heal others, sometimes, risk. Dangerous. Is lucky, to have body that heal fast. Not know why, heal not work on self. Just is," he says softly, lifting one of his shoulders in a bit of a shrug. It's a thing that he's had to come to accept and live with. Then he raises an eyebrow at her words, which brings a smile and a nod. "Is good, to know medicine. Be doctor, da. Fix people, help. But careful, da? Try not do more than body can take," he says softly, a gentle tone to his voice.
Shannon	"Da. It's why I want to study medicine, so I don't need to rely on my gifts too much." Shannon tilts her head, looking at her hands. "When I hold back my gifts, half-way, they let me see into an injury, without healing it. It can be very helpful that way. Combined with normal medicine, it could do a lot of good." His words sink into her mind and she nods, quiet for a moment. "That's the hardest part of being a healer, with a gift like mine. I see someone hurt, I know I -can- help. My heart screams to help. But I know the cost, and I have to make sure I can be there to help others as well. It's the hardest lesson I've had to learn, and am still learning. Probably always will be learning. Family and friends, and gods, they have all told me the same thing you tell me. It's just taken me a long time to start listening."      The talk of languages and when to use the 'best' words has her chortling softly again, nodding in understanding. "Da. I surprised a soldier once in the field, knowing when he used the 'best' Russian. And I told him, 'Yazyk!'. Poor man was so surprised, and embarrassed."
Vitali	"Da, is good. Is good reason for study medicine," Vitali says softly, giving a small nod to her. He looks to her hands for a moment, and then to her features before he reaches out a hand to very lightly touch one of her wrists, if she lets him. "Da, can make similar. See wound first. Then fix. Is hard, be healer. See many hurt. Make hard choices, sometimes," he says softly, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. Sometimes a healer has to choose who to heal, and there's only so much energy the healer has to use. "Mmm, da. Must know limits. Do this much for one, fix worst and body heal rest. Move to next. Harder when many hurt at same time. Da, hard lesson. Always learning. And learning again. Temptation is... push limits. Reach more, help more. Fall down," he says, lifting a hand to pantomime a person falling unconscious. "Need learn same lesson, me, da," he adds, giving a nod to her. One of his eyebrows quirks up at her relaying of the story about the soldier, and he gives a laugh that's warm and truly amused. "Can imagine! Would turn and stare, be all surprise too!"
Shannon	Shannon nods, pursing her lips slightly. "I've... pushed limits. Fallen down. Gotten back up again, pushed limits again, and fallen again. What should have killed a god, I survived healing. But it's not something I want to make a habit of." She smiles somewhat, thinking back. Shadows that should not be there on a youthful face linger briefly in her eyes, their mirthful sparkle dimmed, muted into more of a steely strength. "On one of my worst days, my first failure as a healer, someone who did not have to, they reached out to help pick me back up again. Told me that's what we have to do for each other. Urged me to never work alone if I can help it, work with others when I can. Like he did, a long time ago." She smiles somewhat, looking towards the fire, the circle of warmth and safety. "We talked about a lot that day. I still think of it a lot. It gives strength."      A light laugh escapes her, the young woman bobbing her head, and smiling once more. "Oh, he did turn and stare. Very surprised. Made it even funnier when he was the one having to tell me to watch -my- language another time."
Vitali	"Da, same, me. Mmm... can survive healing but... give too much, fall down. Stay down. Many days," Vitali says, then gives his head a small shake. He's ended up unconscious from healing and stayed unconscious for up to a week before. "Nyet, not wish make habit," he says softly, a gentle note to his voice. He watches her, noticing the shadows in her eyes, listening as she speaks. And he gives a small nod. "See strength in you. If need and am near, will come. Will help. Is what healers do. Pick each other up. Help. Back home, would work with brother. One fall, other pick up. Give food. Make rest," he says softly, a smile coming to his features. It's his first time away from home. His first time away from his family, his brother. He chuckles at the latter of her words, his dark eyes showing a sparkle of amusement in them, and he nods to her. "Da, imagine so! Pot, kettle. Da? Is saying of something. Not know translation in full," he adds, giving his head a small shake.
Shannon	"Da, I remember, when we healed the old man, you said something about your brother. But if you need me or I need you, how do we find each other?" Shannon tilts her head to one side, and for a moment, there is silence, save for the crackling of the fire. Its light is almost lost as the sun rises over the woods, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow from the branches, onto the ground. "First time away from home, it can be frightening. But the fear leaves, in time."      Giggling softly, she nods, eyes twinkling with mirth. "I think you mean, 'the pot calling the kettle black', da?"
Vitali	"Mmm, da. Is twin. Work healing with many times. Have many of same abilities," Vitali says, a thoughtful note to his voice. He tilts his head a bit to one side, a thoughtful expression to his features. "Is challenge, that. Soraya hear far. Take messages. Listen. Can teach to listen for you. Can whistle?" he asks, curious. He shifts his weight slightly, his hands lingering on his thighs, and he gives a small nod. "Da. Is... hard. First time alone. Far from home. Everything new. Everything different," he says softly, his brow furrowing a little bit. It's hard to explain. His attention perks at her correction, and he gives an eager sort of nod. "Da! That!" he says in a bright voice, his eyes showing a sparkle tot hem.
Shannon	Shannon nods, and smiles, pursing her lips and taking a deep breath. She lets out a long whistle that begins on one pitch, rises about a half-step in pitch, and then drops back down before fading to nothing. In another day and age, one might recognize that as something akin to a bosun's whistle. "Does it have to be a certain call to teach Soraya?"      The talk of missing home has her reaching out to gingerly touch the back of Vitali's hand. "Da. I know how that feels, more than you know. Do you miss home at all? Are you glad you came to this area?"
Vitali	There's a warm smile that comes to his features when she whistles, and he gives a nod, pleased. "Da, is good! Is different, different good. Not need be specific call. Mmm... how to say," he says, pausing and thinking for a long moment. "Make whistle for her. Hold arm out. Be ready, da?" he says, a smile easily returning to his features. He watches her for a moment, and he half closes his eyes, concentrating on... something. Focused. For a moment, at least. And then there's her touch to the back of his hand, and he ducks his chin slightly, a wistful sort of smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he gives a nod. "Da, miss home. Was... many moons ago. Leaving. Was... long trip. Very long. Am glad to be here, da. Is... all strange," he says softly, his brow furrowing just a touch. He's not used to it yet, not the city or the traffic or thenewness of it all.
Shannon	Shannon holds out her left arm, and lets out the bosun's whistle call again. While she waits to see if it was at all effective, she peers over at Vitali, smiling warmly. "Da. There are times I miss home, but it's not home any more. Where I was a child, it was not a good place for mutants. Much hatred of them there. I left, and it took time, but I convinced my family to leave so they would be safe, too."      There is a heavy sigh from the young woman, and while she keeps her eyes on the sky, she speaks after a few moments. "I don't understand hate. There was a... medicine, that could take mutations away. It was meant to help those who had mutations that could cause great harm. But those filled with hate, they turned it into a weapon. I was hit with that weapon. It was... a difficult time. I am glad that time is past now, and the antidote was created."
Vitali	There's a nod towards her as she gives the bosun's whistle call, and a smile that tugs at the corners of his lips. It takes a few moments before anything happens. But to those who are keen of ear, there's the sounds of wingbeats, and the eagle circles around before backwinging and coming to land upon the outstretched arm of Shannon. And Soraya clicks her beak before ruffling her feathers a bit, settling her wings. His gaze turns to the eagle, studying her for a long moment, and then his attention turns to Shannon, and he gives a small nod to her. "When make whistle, if Soraya in range, Soraya come. Can tell her message. Soraya give message," he says, giving a small nod, a smile coming to his features. He falls quiet then, listening to her speak, and he tilts his head a bit to one side. "Am... sorry. Many sorries. Hate is... wrong emotion. Too strong. Too dark. Think... maybe... people hate what is not understood," he says softly, a gentle tone to his voice. "Am sorry for what happen. Grateful for antidote. Make better. Fix. Seems often that... things to help become things to hurt. Not understand this," he says softly.
Shannon	Shannon actually laughs softly as Soraya lands on her arm. Briefly she brings her other hand up, waiting to see if Soraya will react badly. "Will she allow me to touch her feathers?" she finally asks, smiling wide and innocent as a child at Christmas. "She's magnificent. And I think she knows it, too!"
Vitali	Soraya sits there on Shannon's arm, and she tilts her head to one side, and then the other before clicking her beak. Vitali gives a soft chuckle, watching his eagle with her. Then he gives a nod to her. "Da. Can touch. Like be touched on chest. On back. Wings, sort of," he says. "Not pet backwards. Only follow lay of feathers," he adds, giving a nod to her. He chuckles softly, giving a look to the eagle before his attention turns back to Shannon. "Da, she knows," he says, a smile coming to his features.
Shannon	Shannon chuckles softly and nods, ruffling her own wings. "You forget, I have feathers, too." Her smile is wide, and it's just pure magic for a moment, as she very gingerly runs the back of her finger down the feathers on Soraya's chest. "You are stunning, and you know it. Oh, yes." She laughs, her smile somehow growing wider still. "I've never been this close to an eagle before."
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao had been lying quietly the whole time since I was laid out on the pine boughs. Still, and silent but for his breathing, which was calm and quiet and utterly normal for someone in a deep sleep. About now, his breathing changes a bit, indicating he's going to wake up very soon. He takes a deeper breath, and his eyes come open. His brow furrows as he looks at the forest canopy above him. Only then do the quiet voices filter into his brain through his ears. He turns his head to see the two with the eagle. "What happened?" The question is softly spoken, and more than a touch on the confused side. He doesn't want to startle anyone with sudden sound.
Vitali	Vitali tilts his head a bit to one side, watching Shannon and noticing that ruffling of her wings. He chuckles softly, amusement in his voice, and then he gives a nod. "Da, did notice. Have pretty feathers," he says softly. Soraya gives a soft sound, seeming to enjoy the touch upon her feathers. She clicks her beak, blinking a bit and then moving her head to nudge her beak against Shannon's fingers. "Da, she knows well. Have had Soraya for many years. Her, used to people," he says softly, a thoughtful note to his voice. As Xiang Zhao's breathing shifts, Vitali tilts his head to one side and turns to look to where the man lays, watching him. "Very many sorries, Xiang Zhao. You need sleep. Fall down because I try touch. Bring here to let rest," he says softly, his tone sincerely apologetic.
Shannon	Smiling broadly, Shannon takes the head-bonk (Who would have thought! A head-bonk from an -eagle-!) as a hint to gingerly run the tip of her finger along the feathers atop Soraya's head, following the lay of the feather. "I know how good that can feel, Soraya. Maybe we are wing-sisters, da?"      It's right around that time that Xiang's breathing shifts, and he awakens on his bower of pine boughs. Shannon turns her head just enough to watch out of the corner of her eye, her smile no less warm for the awakening. "Xiang! I'm glad you're awake. It looks like you tired yourself out, so we were letting you rest. How do you feel?"
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao looks thoughtful at the other man's apology and explanation. He thinks back on events, and shakes his head. "No, Vitali. I fell down because I was stupid and drained myself. Any first year who's been training for a few weeks knows not to do that." That last part seems mostly muttered at himself, but the close proximity makes the words audible. His eyes shift over to Shannon, then to the eagle sitting on her, and he gives serious thought to how he feels before answering her question. "Like an idiot," he says, finally. "But I am fine." He moves to sit up, keeping his movements slow and easy. Which might give the impression that he's not entirely fine and knows it. Once he's sat up, he shifts his legs until he's sitting cross legged, then rests his lower arms atop them, palms up and fingers curled in toward each other. He glances to Shannon. "Xiang is my family name. Call me Zhao." He turns his head so it's facing straight ahead again, and closes his eyes. His breathing deepens, almost like he's falling asleep again. A few breaths later, a mist starts to gather around him, only visible within a few inches. It glows softly, silvery white. And seems to be swirling about him, and then into him. His hair flutters a little in a breeze that simply isn't there.
Vitali	Soraya closes the inner lid of her eyes at the touch that passes across the feathers atop of her head, her beak open just a little bit. She seems to enjoy the touch, and that's a good thing! "Mmm, da. Maybe wing sisters. Maybe will fly with again, one day, da?" Vitali suggests, tilting his head a touch to one side. "Soraya enjoy hunt, fly. Sometimes, join. Not often. Should, again," he says in a softer tone. It's a strange thing to say, even in his broken English. Vitali turns his attention towards Zhao, and he tilts his head to one side. "All things have cost. Drain happens," he says in a gentle tone. "Happen for me. Sometimes. Not idiot. Is thing that happens. All who use power risk draining self. Was tell Shannon, before. Have been fall down for many days at a time," he says softly. He means that he's fallen unconscious and stayed that way for days at a time, but... English is fickle and his grasp of it is not thorough! "If hungry, rabbit done. Ready for eat," he offers, giving a nod.
Shannon	Seeing that Soraya clearly enjoys the touch, Shannon continues to idly stroke the soft feathers atop the eagle's head, always following the lay of each one. She seems equally as enchanted as the avian predator does. "Would you like that one day, then? One fine day, we fly together, da?"      Glancing over at Xiang, one eyebrow twitches, but she says nothing of the mist that seems to be gathering around him. "My apologies. Zhao. I hope I don't forget." Her smile returns, and she glances towards the fire. "I know when I've used my gifts, something to eat always helps. Meat would be very good fuel for healing."
Xiang Zhao	The only response given to the Russian, at least to start, is a soft, "Mm." Just a sound to acknowledge that words were spoken. Because he's right about cost and drain. Xiang Zhao knows this. Still. He's old enough to know not to drain himself to that point unless there's no other choice. "I have as well, a few times." Been unconscious for days at a time. A barely visible shudder runs through him at the mention of the rabbit being done, and again that meat is good for energy. "I need a few minutes," he says. "Or I am going to be unconscious again." Or perhaps being sick, given that shudder. Xiang Zhao lifts his hands and makes a sweeping gesture to either side. His hands come together, one above with the palm pointed down. The other below with his palm pointed up. Betwern them, a ball of that softly glowing mist gathers, silvery blue with points of pearlescent white swirling through it. The ball slowly rotates and never stays still, always swirling. It stays between his palms though. After a few moments, that ball pf mist seems to be growing smaller as bits of it waft to, around, and then /into/ Xhao's palms. As the ball grows smaller, his hands don't move.
Vitali	Soraya closes her eyes the rest of the way, lowering her head as the touch is repeated. The eagle gets plenty of affection from Vitali, but she doesn't act the part in this moment. She clicks her beak as though in agreement of what Shannon said, and Vitali gives a soft chuckle. "Da, she would," he says, a touch of amusement finding his voice. Lifting one of his hands, he catches the string of beads that had worked its way from beneath his shirt, fingering them briefly before tucking it beneath his turtleneck's collar once more. Vitali turns his gaze towards Zhao, and he tilts his head to one side, studying the other man. "Not feel well?" he asks, raising an eyebrow slightly. "Rabbit can wait. Has waited. Will wait. Da. Will wait," he says softly. And he watches, then, curious as Zhao's hands move and as the mist gathers. He's curious, but... he doesn't ask. He waits, and he watches.
Shannon	Though Shannon continues the gentle petting, for as long as Soraya will permit it, Zhao's dislike of meat is plain enough to her, at least. "I'm sorry, Zhao," she murmurs, her cheeks flushing bright rose. "Do you prefer vegetables?" She watches the gathering mist, and the ball between Xiang's hands. Her smile returns as she does, although now she also looks for any sign he might be overextending himself again.      A light chuckle escapes her as she glances briefly back over at Vitali. "I think I have a friend for life over here, da?" The sight of the string of beads catches her eye, and her brows furrow. "Those are lovely. Do they hold meaning for you?"
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao would normally be greatly amused by the eagle. Sadly, in this moment, he's thoroughly distracted by the needs of his body. This time, things spoken to him remain entirely unanswered. Zhao's sole focus is on getting at least some of what was soent replaced. Really, he'd rather not faceplant again! He remains like that for a good ten minutes as the ball pf mist slowly shrinks and disappears into Zhao's hands. Once it's all gone, he moves again. His hands cone together until they are almost touching. Then move apart horizontally, the one upside down turning so that both palms face down. They start out about mid chest level, and he pushes them down. There's something almost ritualistic to the motions. When his hands are just above his thighs, Xiang Zhao takes a deep breath and opens his eyes. He rests his lower arms on his legs again. "That is better," he says softly. Though there are still signs he had overextended himself, they are less than what they had been. Whatever he just did seems to have eased those signs quite a lot. He has actual color to his skin now, and is no longer looking pale. "Is there still rabbit?" He sounds, and looks, hopeful. He glances toward Shannon, a slight, but warm, smile coming to his face. "I find a good balance of meat and vegetables are best, but either will do, thank you." Nope. No dislike for meat here. Simply nausea from overextending himself. "Why are you sorry?" There's a little confusion there!
Vitali	Soraya proves willing to tolerate the petting for a fair while. Though after that while, she does give a click of her beak and a soft sound 'kree' sort of sound. She ruffles her feathers a bit, tilts her head to one side as she peers at Shannon, and then she looks to Vitali. Then she seems to settle in a bit more comfortably on the winged woman's arm. Vitali gives a soft chuckle, and then nods. "Da, have friend. Is good. Have eagle friend, have person friend," he says with a grin, moving his hand from tucking the beads away to lightly pat his chest to indicate himself. Then he tilts his head to one side at her question about the beads, and there's a long moment before he retrieves them out from beneath his shirt, for her to be able to have a look at them. And he gives a small nod. "Da. Have meaning. Carved bone," he says softly, answering in part, at least. There are four beads, and they're each carved with a different pattern. He looks over towards Zhao, watching him for a long moment, noticing that ritualistic cast to the movements. He doesn't ask after any part of it, despite his curiosity. One of his eyebrows quirks up slightly at the question about the rabbit, and then he gives a nod. "Da, is rabbit. Whole rabbit. Not eat any, yet," he says, a smile coming to his features. He lifts a hand, to point towards where the rabbit is skewered over the fire. "Help self. Eat what is needed," he says, giving a nod towards Zhao, a smile easily returning to his features. "Not find wild vegetables for cook. Will look again tomorrow."
Shannon	"I thought the mention of meat is what had made you feel ill, Zhao. I didn't want to cause you distress." Shannon smiles over at him, dipping her head. When Soraya clacks her beak and ruffles her feathers, well, it was message received! She lowers her hand and smiles to the eagle perched on her arm and nod. "I hear ya, precious. Enough is enough, hmm?" She laughs softly as, even so, she seems to have truly gained a friend who is more than happy to perch on her arm for as long as she'll allow. It's just as well she's sitting down nearby, so she can rest her arm atop her knees, and let Soraya perch there that way!      Looking over to Vitali, she smiles, and dips her head, taking a moment to think through a translation. "Da. Druz'ya khoroshiye." For her part, she is content to wait till the others have had a piece of the rabbit before accepting any--feathered and human friends alike!
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao looks to the eagle again. A warm little smile quirks up his lips, the smile a bit lopsided but fully genuine. "It is one of the tamer falcons I have seen." He looks then between Vitali and Shannon. "Two person friends," he corrects. He looks curiously at the beads, but doesn't ask. From his expression, he likely thinks they are at least spiritually significant. But he still doesn't ask. Spirituality tends to be a fairly private thing. There's another of those little smiles, this one for Shannon. "It was the mention, and the smell, of the meat. But only because of draining myself." Zhao does note the curiousity in the other man's face. "That was how I gather energy to replenish what I used." He doesn't move just yet, but nods to helping himself. He looks between Shannon and Vitali, cups his hands before him, and half bows, still seated, to both. "Xiexie nie," he says, voice soft and holding an almost formality to it. Almost grave. Not not quite. He's truly grateful for the help from both of them. He straightens and lowers his arms to rest on his knees again. "I will help you look." Only now does Xiang Zhao move to get up. There's a sense of care to each movement that neither had seen before. The grace is almost the same, but there's something of a heaviness to how he's moving. So not fine. Better, but not fine. In any case, he gets to his feet okay, and rests his left hand against the nearest tree for a moment to steady himself. Only after he's sure of his balance does Zhao straighten and move away from the tree. To the rabbit. He bends down before the fire and has a look over the rabbit. After casting a glance to the other two, Zhao carefully lifts the skewer from its position, straightens again, and carries it to the others. It is first offered to Shannon. She is female. She gets first preference, clearly!
Vitali	Even from Vitali, there is only so much affection that the raptor will allow. Vitali tilts his head a touch to one side at her behaviour, and a smile touches at the corners of his lips. "Have limits, da. Push limits mean... mmm... how to say... make bite finger, no blood," he says, lifting a hand to gesture slightly to the raptor. She'll bite fingers but not draw blood as a means of saying enough is enough if she's pushed to it. "If become too heavy or want arm back, can say 'go' and lift arm. Will fly. Will stay long time," he says, giving a small nod to Shannon. There's a warm smile that comes to his features at her statement in Russian, and he gives another nod. "Da! Friends good!" he agrees readily, his dark eyes showing a brightness to them. Then he looks over to Zhao and gives a nod to the other man. "Da, two person friends," he says, lifting a hand to gesture (not point) to each of them. "Am glad for have friends," he adds, a smile easily returning to his features. He tilts his head a touch to one side, considering something for a moment. "Mmm. Raise by hand. Soraya. Learn, and teach," he says softly, his tone thoughtful. He's taught her things and she's taught him things. It's a strange statement, perhaps. He doesn't mention anything further about the beads, but he doesn't tuck them away again, either. He gives a nod to Zhao, and a smile at the thanks. "Not know for say 'pozhaluysta' in home tongue for you. Many thank yous for help, am glad to have," he says, inclining his head towards Zhao. It's a good size rabbit. The eagle is a good huntress, and she provides well for her partner when he has need. There's no argument from him when the rabbit is offered first to Shannon.
Shannon	Shannon's smile broadens, and she dips her head in kind to Xiang. "Yes, three friends. You, Vitali, and Soraya." While she does keep a discreet eye on Xiang's progress, and how he holds himself, unless he seems to be in any undue distress, she says nothing about it, nor does she move to help. Each to their personal victories, after all!      She doesn't seem at all inclined to move her arm just yet, letting the eagle be the one to decide when she wishes to go, or if she wishes to stay. "Da. Cats are the same way. When they have enough, they have ways of telling you, if you pay attention."      A portion of the rabbit is accepted with a smiile and a nod of her head. "Xiexie. Spasibo." A little bit is taken for herself, and a bit to share with Soraya if she is so inclined! "Very good rabbit. You cook well."
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao doesn't really seem to find that statement a strange one. "Mm. When one teaches, one often learns something in the process. Or realizes something they didn't understand on a conscious level." Yup. He gets it. He glances to Vitali again, expression curious, as he shakes his head. "I am sorry, but I do not understand 'pozhaluysta'." He says it with a fair aproximation of how it had been spoken. Not as precise as the other man, of course, but not too far off the course. As for the rabbit.. well. The eagle isn't offered any at all. Likely, Zhao is assuming the eagle had hunted already, after having caught the rabbit for Vitali. For the moment, there doesn't seem to be any undue distress on Xiang Zhao's part. He seems to be mostly being careful to /not/ overextend himself again. Once the first bit of rabbit has been claimed, Zhao next offers it to Vitali. One end of the stick the rabbit was cooked on is held, and the food held within easy reaching distance of the other man. He's technically the host, so he gets second choice. Zhao will likely take a portin of whatever is left over. For the moment, with as careful as he's being, Zhao seems to be steady enough on his feet. Careful, but steady.
Vitali	For the time being, at least, the eagle remains upon Shannon's arm and seems quite comfortable to stay there. She clicks her beak a little bit, but other than a brief glance towards the cooked rabbit, she shows no interest in it. Vitali notices her lack of interest, and doesn't seem surprised by it. "Soraya eat before cook rabbit. Prefer raw," Vitali explains. He likely fed her the innards and some of the belly meat, or she may have caught her own rabbit to eat. It's hard to tell which might have been. Then he gives a nod. "Small knowing of cats. Not have words, animals. Make know by actions," he says in a thoughtful tone. At the compliment to his cooking, he ducks his chin, colour rising into his cheeks. "Very much spasibo," he says quietly, shyly, inclining his head towards Shannon. "Am glad is liked," he adds, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. The meat has been seasoned -- salt, pepper, some herbs, but not overly so. When it's offered to him, he inclines his head to Zhao and removes a piece of it. And he gives a nod, at the words. "Da, is so with teach. Pozhaluysta is... answer to spasibo. Spasibo, thank you. Pozhaluysta... mmm... mean you are welcome," he says, needing a moment along the way to think through it. He keeps some attention on how Zhao seems to be doing on his feet and such, but it's not a thing that he makes obvious.
Shannon	Well, it didn't hurt to offer, at least! Shannon nibbles on the cooked rabbit, content to share a meal and a fire with friends. There was something timeless and peaceful about the whole thing, the moment suffused with a magical quality. The sun was rising on a clear day, the smoke of a shared fire lingering in the air, and the aroma of a perfectly roasted rabbit to tempt the appetite. "Pozhaluysta. Spasibo. Xiexie. Those are truly the best words in any language."
Xiang Zhao	Only once the Russian has taken some of the meat does Xiang Zhao return to the fire. He first pulls a piece of it for himself, then puts the remainder back over the fire. Piece of rabbit in hand, he finds a spot somewhat across from the other two and settles to sit cross legged on the ground. Going down was not quite as graceful as going up had been, but he makes no complaint at the slightly hard landing. He takes a bite of the rabbit, glancing toward Vitali at the explanation of the words. "Ah. In Mandarin, pozhaluysta is bù kèqì. You are welcome. Thank you, spasibo, is xièxiè. And... Xièxiè, for the rabbit. It is very good." He takes another bite and chews. "Mm," seems to be less in response to the meat and more to what Shannon had said. He finishes chewing before actually speaking. "Two things one should say frequently. Xièxiè. Duìbùqi." The two words are said with some solemnity.
Hela	Further within the forest, a figure dressed in a somewhat gothic style, all blacks, a brocaded strap jacket, sheer black top, covered with Norse runes embroidery and a flouncy black mini skirt approaches. Her look completed with feathered cuffed black gloves and combat boots, an array of silver rings including one full finger taloned ring on an index finger, and a pendant of a Valknut. If some recalled the affairs of the Black Sleep from long ago, or have heard of Club Mjolnir, they may recognize the figure as Miracle Elle. When she spots the gathered in the forest, she starts to approach them quietly.
Vitali	There's a nod that Vitali offers to Shannon with her statement, and a smile as well. "Da, are not wrong. Are very best words," he agrees with a smile. There's something about sitting around a fire, sharing a meal with friends, and just having that togetherness. Breaking bread -- or rabbit, in this case -- is a sort of ritual thing in and of itself. And there aren't many better ways of starting a day. Vitali eats some of the meat he'd taken whilst waiting Zhao return the rabbit to its place over the fire, where it will be kept warm. Though one of his eyebrows quirks just a touch at the less graceful landing the other man has to the ground, he makes no comment. He understands pride and he respects it -- respects Zhao. He tilts his head a touch to one side. "Bù kèqì," he repeats, as though tasting the words. He's going to try to remember them, but... languages are hard! "Are welcome, bù kèqì, very much, for rabbit. Friends help friends. Friends take care friends. Da?" he says, looking from one to the other of them. "Da, is important words," he adds, agreeing. There is a sudden attentiveness to the eagle that sits on Shannon's arm. She shifts, eyes opening swiftly and then launching herself from Shannon's arm with a shriek of sound that has a tone of warning to it. A portion of Vitali's attention remains on the eagle, and he turns his head in the relative direction of the stranger's approach. "Someone come," he says quietly, perhaps unnecessarily.
Shannon	Shannon is just finishing her small piece of the freshly roasted rabbit, when Soraya shrieks and takes to the sky. Something wasn't right. She's quick to get to her feet, a cardinal to Hela's raven, in her crimson red t-shirt, thick sweatpants, and old white sneakers that look fairly well-suited to physical training. Uncertain of who or what is approaching, she reaches for the nearest branch on the ground of suitable dimensions to serve as an improvised bo staff, taking a relaxed, but ready stance with the branch in both hands held angled across her body. However, there is no move otherwise on her part--only standing in readiness, as she watches the stranger approach.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao is dressed in robes reminiscent of monks, but flowier, in pale grey with darker grey edging, with a deep blue outer robe over top. A deep blue sash holds the robes closed. The scent of roasted rabbit wafts on the air, and Zhao is taking a few moments in silence to devour the portion he'd taken for himself. So it is that the food, coupled with the remaining exhaustion from having drained himself, he does not at first notice the one approaching quietly. Plus, it really is nice sitting together sharing food with friends. "Mm." The sound accompanies a nod in the Russian's direction. Zhao swallows the bite he'd been chewing, then speaks further. "Shi. Friends take care of friends," he agrees. He is finishing up the last bite when the eagle shrieks and launches. He turns his head to watch the bird's ascent, then looks to where Vitali is looking. "We seem to have chosen popular spots in the woods this time, Vitali," he comments in a quiet tone, a trace of amusement threaded through it. Xiang Zhao glances to Shannon, noting her actions. He climbs to his feet and has to brace himself against a tree again for a moment. After that moment, he steps from the tree, flips the left side of his outer robe back, revealing the sheathed sword beneath. He slides it from beneath robe and sash and lets the robe fall back into place. He doesn't yet draw the sword, but holds it, still safely sheathed, in his left hand.
Hela	Elle smiles at the shrieking eagle, but looks away from Soraya once she takes to the sky. "I was unaware young people still took time to keep nature company...it's good to see," Elle muses aloud without offering an introduction, "not all are captivated by the screens, good, good." It is Shannon, who gets a direct look first, from those gathered, "was the eagle your own? Or just a friend?" A moment later, upon smelling the rabbit, she turns to look towards Xiang, "out for hunting and cooking?" She asks, a surprised tone to her voice, before smiling affectionately at Xiang, "and a swordsman at that...? A dying art these days..."
Vitali	The warning had been brief and without much in the way of detail. There was little in the way of detail for her to offer. Vitali shifts his weight slightly, setting aside the piece of cooked rabbit that he had been eating (but not finished with), and he rises smoothly to his feet. There is a brief glance that he casts towards Shannon, and he turns to be facing the direction of the approach. There are no weapons visible upon his person. He looks towards Zhao, a smile quirking at the corners of his lips as he gives a nod. "Da, seem so. Need must choose wiser, next time," he says with a touch of amusement. His accent is Russian, and his English speaks to the fact that it's not his native tongue. His attention easily shifts back towards the stranger who has come to visit the fire. Vitali tilts his head a touch to one side, considering the words that have been said. "Nature important. Always," he says softly. Where he is from, nature is incredibly important -- his people depend on it to survive. He doesn't look in the direction that the eagle had flown in, even though a part of him wishes to -- he simply trusts that she wings her way beyond the height of the trees in order to find some manner of safety. For whatever reason, he doesn't correct any of her incorrect statements. He doesn't look much the part of a woodsman, at the moment. There's a duffel bag some short ways from the fire -- far enough that stray sparks won't hit it at all, and it has some longer wrapped items which are attached to it. The fire itself is small, rock ringed and in a pit.
Shannon	Hela does not seem to be presenting an immediate threat, with no sign of attack coming from that direction. Shannon thusly relaxes her stance somewhat, although her hands remain curled about her improvised staff. Her lips curl upwards, and she shakes her head. "No, the eagle isn't my companion. She chooses to fly with him," she replies, motioning to Vitali. "Screens have their place, but it's good to get outside, too. Nature keeps it simple and real." With a brief flick outwards, she settles her wings behind her, feathers ruffling, then settling down.      As their erstwhile acquaintance addresses Xiang, the winged young woman takes a moment to look Hela over, canting her head slightly to one side. "Very stylish outfit," she offers, allowing herself a light smile. "Hopefully you're not cold, though?"
Xiang Zhao	"Do you mean silk screens?" It may simply be that Xiang Zhao has never heard this word describing something electronic before. Though, the fact that he looks Chinese, and his accent sounds Chinese, says that should be impossible. But the question seems genuine. "I like nature. Nature is quiet. It is easier to meditate when it is quiet." His voice is soft, as though he is habitually soft spoken. There comes a shake of his head. "I cannot claim the success of hunting nor cooking. Both were his doing," he says, nodding toward Vitali. But at the part about the sword... Well. He inclines his head briefly. "That I cannot deny." The sword in question, in its scabbard, looks likely to be a dao or something similar. The sheath and hilt are both white. Deep grey metal accents the pommel cap, as well as the tip and top of the scabbard and about a third of the way down it where a pair of tassels hang. The tassels are deep blue, each with a pair of white and a pair of blue beads strung above them. For the moment, it remains sheathed. There has been no threat to bring him to bare it. Despite the readiness, Xiang Zhao looks perfectly calm. The sword is not the only object he carries. There's a white flute and a closed folding fan tucked into his sash on his right side. Only the sword had been hidden. The other two objects are plainly visible. Zhao doesn't look away from their unexpected guest, but does turn his head a bit more toward Vitali's location. "More secluded means less company," he points out, a thread of amusement held in his still soft tone. Shannon's wing flick is enough to draw his eyes from their guest just long enough to assess what the sound was. Zhao's dark eyes go immediately back to the newcomer. "I am Xiang Zhao," he says, the pair of words sounding as a single word as he speaks them. He lifts his hands to cup them together before him, and half bows toward the woman.
Hela	"You are a smart man," Elle notes at Vitaly's remark about nature, her comment coinciding with Shannon noting how the eagle choose to accompany Vitaly, "perhaps more than just smart. That is a noble companion to earn." "Thank you," Hela replies to the compliment of her outfit. Turning again to Shannon, "I am from Norway, I do well in cold climate, I see you're familiar with runes...?" She asks upon glancing at that small leather bag upon her belt. "The one that stills men's focus, the kind worshipped daily by countless people." Elle answers Xiang's question, as she's once again pointed to grant merits she witnessed to Vitaly. "A rare man...you are not from these parts, are you?" she asks of Vitaly. To Xian Zhao she adds another question, "do you find occasion to wield the sword for good purpose...?" With introductions offered, she gives one of her own, "Elle."
Vitali	For himself, the Russian doesn't seem particularly on edge -- wary, definitely. Strangers might be good, or strangers might be bad. It's seldom easy to tell which is the case. Vitali looks towards Shannon, and he inclines his head towards her as she speaks of his eagle, and a smile tugs at the corners of his lips. He likes the way she worded that -- that the eagle chooses to fly with him. His dark gaze turns forward, and though he ears the sound of her settling her wings, he doesn't need to look to know that's what she does, for his eagle has made the motion many times. "Nature give life. Nature take life. Nature teach much if one listen, if one watch," he says softly, a thoughtful tone to his words. He looks to Zhao, and he inclines his head towards the man as the credit is slid his way for the rabbit and the cook of it, a bit of colour creeping to his cheeks. "Hunt, cook, many years," he adds, a smile finding the corners of his lips. An attempt to be modest with his skills, perhaps. One of his eyebrows quirks up at a part of Zhao's words, and a smile tugs his lips. "Is true. Less company. Less interesting," he says, sounding a touch amused himself. His attention turns back towards their guest. "Am named Vitali. Da, am not from here. Am from far," he offers, a smile coming to the corners of his lips. "Am just man," he says, inclining his head towards Elle. He doesn't feel as though he's particularly smart, he just knows a thing or three. "Is good to meet, Elle," he adds, his tone both polite and respectful. "Is still rabbit left, if hungry?" he offers, lifting one of his hands to gesture towards the rabbit over the fire. There is no sign of there having been any waste from the rabbit. Even the hide, which is rolled up and tucked mostly out of sight beneath the duffel.
Shannon	Shannon smiles at Elle, glancing briefly down at her little brown leather bag. "It was a gift a little over a year and a half ago. No magic, but has a bit of history of its own." Seeing as there continues to be little sign of threat--although the talk of using swords to good purpose does elicit a brief flick of her eyebrows, she shifts her improvised staff to her left hand. Reaching out with her other, she smiles. "Shannon. Well-met, Elle."      Other than that, it is Vitali's fire, and she is as much a guest as Elle or Xiang. Thus, she settles into silence, at least for the moment.
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao gains a slightly confused expression at the definition of 'screen'. "I am unfamiliar with that sort of screen," he says. He pauses and considers. "Unless it is the sort of screen one finds on televisions?" 'Televisions' is ever so slightly stilted, as though it's not a word he uses often. Then comes a slight smile. "I never wield my sword for bad purposes. I am tasked with protecting the innocent. Ni hao, Elle. Well met." It might be interesting to note that Xiang Zhao's eyes never stray below Elle's lips. He has not glanced a single time at the outfit being worn by the woman. Xiang Zhao nods to the assessment of nature. It's accurate. Give and take. "Balance," he says softly. He nods again, this time about less company being less interesting. Just after that invite to food, Xiang Zhao sinks to the ground to sit cross legged. The motion is abrupt enough to indicate sitting was more a necessity than a desire. He lays the sword across his lap before resting his forearms, palms up, on his knees.
Hela	"Yes...but screens steals and reducde people's attention to nature, a pity." Elle adds to Vitali's sentiment. "Of course you are," Elle agrees with Vitali, "and so is the man who tried to rob my club in Hell's Kitchen, he too was a man, yet I deem him lesser to you." She arches a brow at the offering of what is left of the rabbit, "you extend an offering of food? I will partake. Thank you." "So you've no connection with the runes featured on it? Might I know who gave you such a lovely gift?" Elle asks of Shannon, nodding at the pleasantries, "well met." "I am pleased to hear you value that sword, and carry it with dignity. A sword should be cherished, and treated well, never used for ill purpose." Noting how Xiang's eyes never break contact, Elle offers him the slightest of nods, before approaching the fire to take some of the rabbit per Vitali's invitation.
Vitali	Wherever the eagle has flown to, she is quiet. She glides on the air currents, making lazy and large circles around the camp, listening and waiting and watching as she can. Keeping tabs on her companion, and at the same time keeping herself safe. Vitali doesn't look in the direction that she is, and there's no sign that he is aware of where she is, either. His dark gaze turns towards Shannon as she offers an introduction of her own, and then his attention falls to the brown bag that she wears. He had noticed it before, but not paid it much in the way of attention. Gifts are often things that become special. His gaze slides over to Zhao, and there's a quirk of an eyebrow at the mention of televisions, a puzzled furrow that touches his brow. From his reaction, he's unfamiliar with the term. Though he does incline his head at the intent Zhao states, and a smile tugs at the corners of his lips. "Protect innocent is noble cause," he says softly, his tone thoughtful. "Balance, da. Live from land, must help balance," he adds, a smile touching at the corners of his lips. Don't hunt everything and don't gather all of the seeds or there will be nothing left for future years. He watches as Zhao abruptly sits, but he doesn't bring attention to it or ask after it. He's not one to announce a friend's weakness. His gaze turns back to Elle, and he tilts his head a touch to one side. "Not familiar with screens you mention. Not know. Not have," he says softly. And he speaks sincerely with that, for he's quite unschooled in the ways of technology and hasn't even got a cell phone. One of his eyebrows quirks up at the mention of a club being robbed -- which is a thing he interprets most incorrectly! "Why someone try take club? Is just... big stick. Find new stick? Seem... mmm... strange for keep club in kitchen, da? Not sure how would even get to kitchen in Hell," he wonders. He's not trying to be funny, it's his actual interpretation of what was said. His English is not the greatest and the city's sprawl is something that's still new to him. "Pozhaluysta... mmm... you are welcome," he adds, habit bringing the Russian before the English.
Shannon	"No, I'm not quite certain what they say, but the gift is treasured all the same. It was from a friend who took me under their wing almost like a big brother. His name's Sam. He helps manage Club Evolution over in Bushwick. The gift was for my sixteenth birthday." Shannon cracks a bit of a smile. "Given half the things I've seen, I wouldn't be surprised if this bag's actually been to Asgard and back. I'd have to double-check which of the realms it actually originated in, though. It serves to hold some first aid supplies I keep with me now, and a few other basic items."      Brows raise at the mention of trouble at another club, her lips pursed ever so slightly. "Curious, which club is that?" she asks Elle. Vitali's confusion is plain. Though she keeps her lips from twitching upwards -too- far in any sort of a smile, she glances towards him. "Sometimes in English, the same word can mean different things. In this case, a 'club' is a social gathering place."
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao doesn't seem to understand in that way of someone who's never been influenced by those screens being referred to. "Such screens do not work properly when I am too near," he says. That slight nod is returned with a slightly deeper nod from Zhao. There's respect in the gesture. It never hurts to be polite, afterall. At this point, Xiang Zhao closes his eyes. His arms move, spreading out. His hands, both palms facing in, circle, one up toward his chest, the other down to just above his lap. He brings his hands together and a mist appears, all but entirely translucent. It faintly glows, silvery blue swirling with irridescent white. In the light from the risen sun, the mist and the glow are not as easy to discern as they had been when it was still darker. That ball of mist never stops moving, swirling around, but it stays in a more or less round shape hovering between his palms. Over the course of ten minutes or so, it shrinks, the mist moving around Zhao's hands, and then into them. When it disappears, he brings his hands together at diaphram level. Both palms wind up facing down as his hands lower toward his lap. They hover for a moment just above his lap. He turns them so they face up, and his lower arms come to rest on his knees again. And there he sits. Breathing deep as though he's asleep, but sitting upright.
Hela	"That is why you are who you are, no screens," Elle offers to Vitali with a smile, "your heart, your mind, are in the right place, not lead astray." She doesn't volunteer to explain to Vitali his misunderstanding, instead only quipping, "all which we don't know puzzles us." Turning to Shannon, Elle takes more interest in her at the quip, "you know of Asgard? I would like to meet this friend of yours, perhaps I should visit the club." Having said that, Elle eats up her piece of rabbit.
Vitali	The Russian man is quiet as the bag that Shannon wears is spoken of. He had noticed the markings on it, but he has no idea what they might mean. He listens to the story that she tells, and he gives a small nod. "Is good idea for have supplies, da," he agrees, giving a small nod to her. Then Vitali tilts his head a touch to one side as Shannon offers a bit of clarity towards the situation Elle had mentioned. He frowns a little bit, his brow furrowing a touch as he tries to make a sort of mental connection for the intended meaning of the club. "Mmm... like lodgehouse?" he asks, curious. His village has a central sort of building that's used for gathering everyone together. Vitali's attention turns to Zhao, watching the other man as he partakes of his meditational practices. He doesn't move to interfere or interrupt, instead letting him do as he sees fit to. He gives Zhao space, and though he's curious of the process, he doesn't ask any questions about it. For now, at least. Vitali turns his dark gaze over to Elle, and he tilts his head a touch to one side at her words. "Village not have screens. Have one... te-le-phone," he says, the word spoken in such a way that his unfamiliarity with it is unclear. He's likely never used the telephone himself but was probably shown how to before he left, just in case. "Is on cord. Focus on live, on survive. Is way of life," he says in a thoughtful tone. "Think have many things not known," he admits, a touch sheepishly. He hasn't been exposed to a lot since coming here, yet. There's no sign of recognition at all when Asgard is spoken of, either.
Shannon	"Know of, yes. Been there, no. The likelihood of that ever happening is slim at best." Shannon chuckles softly, shaking her head as she sits by the fire, her wings in a more relaxed pose behind her. "But I know better than to say 'never'. I've seen and done some pretty wild things for my age in the past year and a half. Been places I never would have thought possible, met people I never thought I would. Thor was one of them. Wouldn't want to be the one to tangle with him, but when we've met, he's been very kind."      Peering over at Elle, she smiles, and nods. "Club Evolution's along the main drag in Bushwick, if you ever want to stop by. I hold a part time job there as a server while I'm studying for my state EMT exam, with an eye towards med school."      Falling silent once more, she listens to Vitali describe his home, and the life he led there. She can't help but smile, nodding in confirmation of his pronunciation of 'telephone'. "Lodgehouse sounds kind of close, da."
Xiang Zhao	Xiang Zhao has already rested quite a bit and so has recovered significantly from where he had been prior to faceplanting. Perhaps it's partially that, and perhaps it's something else, but he doesn't stay meditating for more than ten minutes or so before he moves again. His hands relax, and his breathing deepens. Then his eyes come open. "I am able to only see the screens from a distance away. Usually far enough that I cannot hear what is said by those inside the screens." He may not have figured out everything quite right, just yet. "Club? I am having a feeling that the club being referred to is not the type that is a weapon." Zhao remains sitting where he is, for the moment, content to stay there and relax. He glances to Vitali and nods. "Same. Focus on living. Cultivating. And hunting ghosts, demons, and monsters that are causing issues to people without the power, knowledge, or training to be able to deal with them." Xiang Zhao's dark eyes move over to Shannon. There are words being said that he's not familiar with. "Ee yem tee? What is this?" He seems to have taken that for several words rather than three letters.
Hela	"Yes, like a lodgehouse," Elle decides to leave it at that, no reason getting into any complications with Vitali. "Sensible village, do you have any shrines or totems of any sort in your village?" She asked with some interest. At the mention of telephone she smirks, "ravens are so much more sensible." "I will stop by," Elle remarks to Shannon, nodding at her. "It depends how you look at it," Elle decides to amuse Xiang. "You do deal in a dangerous profession though, meddling with the occult."
Vitali	There's a slight tilt of his head as he listens to Shannon speak, his brow furrowing a touch. There are a lot of things that he doesn't understand. There are a lot of things that are different here than how they are in the hinterlands where he's from. He gives a small nod at her, at her confirmation about the lodgehouse, but for the moment, the Russian man is quiet, eating his piece of rabbit. He blinks and raises an eyebrow slightly as he looks over to Zhao, confused and puzzled. "Not understanding. How people inside screens?" he asks, frowning a bit. The concept is not one that he's grasping. He is, perhaps, a bit accepting of the fact that he's destined not to understand certain concepts as they are here. "Protect village, protect people," he says softly, giving a small nod to Zhao. "Many forces in world," Vitali adds, but chooses to leave it at that. He tilts his head a touch to one side, considering Hela's words, and he gives a nod. "Da, have shrines, have totems," he says, a smile touching the corners of his lips. "Is important for many things," he adds, giving another small nod.
Shannon	Shannon chuckles softly, rubbing the back of her head. "Yeah, messing with the occult's generally a pretty bad idea for most of us. Though when it comes to the old gods, really, I suspect that if you simply treat them with basic decency and respect to start with, it can't hurt."      Glancing over to Xiang, she blushes a bit and smiles rather sheepishly. "I'm sorry. EMT is a shorter way to say 'emergency medical technician'. It's what I'm studying for right now, and I hope to take the test for it this summer." She looks down at her hands, then reaches back to smooth out some of her feathers, allowing herself a light, somewhat pensive sort of sigh. "Hopefully, my being a mutant won't stand in the way of that. I won't let it."      Smiling at Elle, she dips her head. "I couldn't buy you anything alcoholic yet, but if I'm on duty when you visit, first snack's on me." Other than that, she falls silent to listen to Vitali, and his description of his village, its shrines, and totems. She leans forward a bit while listening, intrigued by the tale.
Xiang Zhao	"We do not have these lodgehouses, as such, but we do have ancestral halls and personal shrines, as well as one larger Buddhist temple" Xiang Zhao listens to the conversation. It's very interesting. "Those of us whoa re able use talismans. And us, as well as everyone else, also uses birds, usually pigeons or doves, to carry messages. Occasionally a falcon." To the dabbling in the occult, Xiang Zhao looks thoughtful, then curious. "Dangerous profession, that I agree with. I am uncertain what 'occult' is. The magic I use is that passed down through generations of my ancestors." Zhao shrugs a little bit at Vitali. "I do not know how. Perhaps it is some sort of magic that made them small and trapped them there." He nods firmly at the next thing said. "Protect people, protect clan and family." There really are many forces in the world. He'd already known that but is coming to know that there are far more than he'd initially assumed there were. There is a nod of his head directed at Shannon, even as Zhao's eyes move to her again. "I find that treating many people and beings with decency and respect goes a long way to avoiding unpleasantness. Most especially those with power at their fingertips." He looks confused at the next bit of information mparted. "What is.." He pauses, and considers. "A doctor who treats people in emergencies? Is that not what all doctors do?" His mouth curls up in a small smile. "Even if your being a mutant stands in the way for people who are not mutants, there will always be mutants who need medicine and doctors." Yup. You all guessed right. Shannon just elevated herself to being a doctor in Xiang Zhao's eyes!
Hela	"Technology..." Elle offers one explanation to Vitali, before adding, "think of it as a way to draw worship...presenting oneself as a god to the public," she scoffs as she explains. "Your village has all it needs then...which deity serves your village?" Elle asks Vitali curiously. She certainly seems in agreement that those are important for many things. "So it is," Elle quips at Shannon. "Such a triviality should not stand in your path..." so Elle clearly has no issues with mutants. But it seems she doesn't quite understand how many other people do. "No need to entertain me to anything, just the visit will sufficie, perhaps a meeting with this friend of yours," Elle waves a dismissive hand at the offer of buying her a snack. "Ah...Buddhists Temples are lavish," Elle notes, smiling softly at Xian, "do you present offering, or do you leave that to the monks?" She laughs at Zhao's scenario and smirks, "a dying man who hates mutants, will find himself quite open to allow a mutant healer to save his life. Such are people standing at death's door, they find out what truly matters."
Vitali	"Da, is best for have respect. For others, for spirits, for land, for sea, for animals... for all things," Vitali says softly, his tone thoughtful. Every living thing, every force of nature, is deserving of respect to his way of thinking. He tilts his head to one side, giving Shannon a confused look. "What means 'emergency medical technician'?" he asks, the three words spoken careful and with an effort to getting them right. No such thing exists in his village, in his home. Then he smiles at her and gives a nod. "Is only in way if let it be in way, da?" he suggests. He's quiet a long moment, listening to the others, and he tilts his head a bit to one side before giving a small nod to Zhao. "Magic also from ancestors. Many steps back," he says, a smile coming to the corners of his lips. He doesn't know anything about doctors or doctoring -- his village doesn't have anyone with such a title or job -- and so he's quiet, listening and a bit puzzled. His attention shifts to Hela, and he tilts his head a bit to one side. He doesn't understand worshipping technology, but he chooses not to chase that down further. "Da, have what is needed for live, for survive. Ak Ana, primary. Others, less so. Still important," he says, a thoughtful tone to his voice. Other deities might not be worshipped as much but they are still important to his village, to his people. "When Death approach, eyes often open to see other things," he says, a smile touching at the corners of his lips.