"Did any of those shadow fish-thingies attack again?" A tired and drowsy Ezreal came up from the sleeping quarters as he yawned and stretched himself out, taking in the ocean air yet another day. Yasuo shook his head, narrowing his gaze upon a coming coastline as a sigh escaped his lips and he smiled."Thankfully, it seems like we're coming up finally after.. Month? Something like that. Haven't been keeping track. Was your job after all, Prodigal Explorer." Yasuo made a cheeky joke in reference to papers detailing a common epithet placed upon him.

"Yeah yeah…" The Explorer waved his hand as he pulled out a piece of parchment from his sleeping garments(which was simple cotton and slightly worn down shirt and pants he carried with him in his satchel), revealing a paper with numbers and dates crossed out as he looked up finally,"June 17th. Wish this was a lil' easier to do. Only thing that can tell date and time on the fly is completely immobile."Yasuo shrugged slightly, continuing to maneuver the ship's wheel as they glided along the edges of the black mist."You guys got those fancy light magic things."

Ezreal laughed,"You mean the cameras? Yeah… guess that's an insane breakthrough…. But not as insane as that."Ezreal pointed towards Yasuo's left as the Swordsman turned, eyeing a gigantic ball of… what could only be unholy magic and mist. It was moving, albeit very slowly across the seas as Yasuo frowned."We're in for a grim fate. Things from the Shadow Isles are beginning to act. I've heard tales of the Ruination and Harrowing, everyone has, but… I don't think they've ever been like this. Is it because Bilgewater didn't pay a tithe or something?" Ezreal was now munching on his portion of breakfast; packed sandwiches that their friends back in Piltover left in."Nah. Couldn't be. Isn't that just one entity? Nautilus or something? The Black Mist… the Ruination is part of something else. What was his name again? Vincent? Victor?"

"Viego…" A ghastly voice spoke out as Yasuo and Ezreal jumped, Yasuo's panic cause the ship to lean a bit as he pulled along the wheel before regaining composure and control, aligning the sails back to its original spot as the source of the voice was revealed to be their Yordle companion awakening from her slumber.

"Shit you scared the hell out of me Poppy." Ezreal laughed as the Yordle drowsily made her way up the stairs leading onto the main deck of the ship from the sleeping quarters as she repeated what she said.``Viego. The Ruined King. His mist attacked Demacia. I fought it back with Vayne… food please…" The Yordles voice trailed off from his initial conversation as Ezreal handed her a sandwich from the container as she munched on it hungrily.

"The beast has been fed! You can continue now." Yasuo jokingly spoke as Poppy, more alive, rolled her eyes."Yeah yeah. This... mist attacked. Fortunately we fended it off but we have never had a direct confrontation with it completely yet. And the order response for fending them off, the Sentinels of Light, well.. Their numbers are quite low now.. Only one I know of is Lucian." Poppy drank out of her metal canteen as Ezreal nodded and took the information in slowly."Interesting. And how long ago was that?"

"Mm… two years ago?" Ezreal spat out his water comically."What!? But the newspapers before we left detailed that this was newfound information!"

"Guess information doesn't travel too fast. And people are better at keeping secrets in Demacia I'm assuming." Yasuo joked as Ezreal chuckled."Guess so huh? Why Demacia though? Sentinels of Light?" Poppy helped herself to another sandwich from the container and shrugged,"Dunno. I guess so? But I do know it's why I have to find the hero!" Ezreal smiled and agreed. "Suppose so. And in order to find the hero we gotta get on some land first. How close are we Yasuo?" Yasuo's eyes veered out into the distance as the mist changed from a light black film to a white and almost pinkish color. "Close. We'll be hitting land today for sure.. Unfortunately we can't dock where I'd want to. Weh'le isn't open to outsiders. Poppy would be allowed, since she's a Yordle, but not Ezreal."

"Whuh? Why not? Cause I'm Piltovian?" Yasuo laughed and actually affirmed Ezreal's half joke."... Yeah, actually. That's exactly it. Or well, close enough. Cause of Noxian Invasion. Remember that?"

"Of course. What would an explorer be if not a historian as well?" Yasuo chuckled. "Right right. Anyways, after that, Weh'le completely closed its port to anyone non-Ionian. Don't want Noxian spies or something sneaking in again. It's fine though, we can dock on the outskirts on some beach. Should be fine. Thinking we dock near Fae'lor, restock up and go from there. If my navigation and helmsman skills are correct we should be.."As he spotted they parted through a thick "cloud" of mist and when crossing to the other side, Ionia in all its glory was revealed: A mystical and spiritual land unlike any other in Runeterra along with it also being the home to their fine Swordsman, Yasuo.

"Damn… That's breathtaking…" Ezreal's voice trailed off as he took in the view before turning to Yasuo. "Actually. Thinking of it now: How do you even know how to pilot a boat?" Yasuo pointed his thumb backwards, presumably in the direction of Bilgewater. "Once you visit Bilgewater it's practically required to know how to pilot one. Poppy does too actually."

The Yordle was still thinning down their supplies of sandwiches as she grinned."Yup! Tobias taught me! Though thinking of it now and how many boats he wrecked that's probably was a bad call.. But yeah, I can pilot one! It's just exhausting and I'm too… you know."

"We know." Ezreal and Yasuo said in unison as Yasuo shifted the boat to the right slightly, taking a hand to point straight ahead at the ocean running between the small island and shoreline leading to the rest of Ionia, "Right over there is Fae'lor. Former castle was built there before the Noxian Invasion happened, then it was completely ravaged and replaced with a Noxian fort as an outpost."

"Noxians… I hate those guys."Ezreal angrily said as Yasuo expressed the same sentiment. "You'll find no disagreement here. All Ionians do. I'm not ignorant enough to not know all of them aren't bad but still.. Can't help but have a disdain for them. Good thing is the fort they built there has long since been ravaged. Apparently Syndra, a… disgustingly powerful mage destroyed it after she broke free from her prison. Or at least, that's what I'm told."

"You're told a lot of things. How do you get all your information?" Ezreal curiously asked as Yasuo shrugged his shoulders slightly. "I guess it helps that I lived- or well, formerly lived in a famously secluded and revered village. Guess secrets are spilled here cause they wouldn't normally get out…"As Yasuo finish his sentence he realized:

"Until now? As you tell a Yordle and a Piltovian?" Ezreal mocked as Yasuo scoffed and rolled his eyes with a smile. "Yeah yeah. We should be making it to land mid-afternoon. Should take a day or two to get to Navori afterwards with some decent speed. Then we can ask around to find out where my smith is.``

"Who is your blacksmith anyways?" Poppy finally gave them her full attention as she ate all their sandwiches they were packed, much to Ezreal's disdain."Poppy you ate it all!" He whined, picking up the empty basket as he groaned on his knees. "Now we're left with the dried up raptor and boar meat along with some stale bread. Yay…" Ezreal sarcastically cheered as Poppy grinned. "Hey! Don't grin after I was so charitable with my side of the rations!" Ezreal jumped up and swiped at the Yordle as she effortlessly dodged, walking up the deck to helm to join Yasuo. Ezreal sighed and slouched down, grumbling before joining them at the helm of their ship.

"Doran." Yasuo said with a chuckle after watching their brief antics. "Master Blacksmith and easily one of the best in Ionia. Former teacher at Wuju Monastery and taught Master Yi, I doubt you know him, but essentially an old man who's super good with the blade. Not as good as me.." Yasuo joked as Ezreal snorted at Yasuo's stroking of his own ego. Though his Yordle friend and token fan happily agreed. "True!"

"Thanks Poppy. I knew I could trust my bestie." Poppy blushed as Yasuo added on another detail."Oh yeah. Apparently he was taught by Ornn as well." That's when Ezreal's jaw finally dropped. "What?! THE Ornn? The Fire Below the Mountain? The Freljordian Spirit of Forge and Craftsmanship? God of Fire and Forge?" Yasuo slowly nodded his head with a raised brow."Yeah…? Think so, dunno if that's all his titles but yeah."

Ezreal's smile slowly faded as he thought of the timeline of Yasuo's apparent blacksmith. "Wait. Is this Doran guy a Vastayan or something?" Yasuo seemed to be lost in deep thought for brief moments before shaking his head. "Nope. Some old Ionian man. Wait a second-HE COULD BE DEAD!" Yasuo began to panic. "Oh no.. what am I going to do if he's dead!? I.. I skipped all the swordless wind magic classes…" Poppy consoled her Swordsman's friend by hugging his legs as Ezreal sighed, patting Yasuo on the back. "The old dude's probably still kicking. Eyes on the sea now, not trying to die before making land." Yasuo noticed he was pulling the ship slightly towards the left and the wind was pushing them outwards into the sea again. He quickly regained composure, and soon after, control of the ship and it began to return to its original direction of Fae'lor, which was now coming into sight the closer they slowly got.

"Wait… is that land…" Ezreal walked forward a bit and leaned slightly off the ship, peering closer to the land as he nodded. "I knew it. The ground is completely scarred… in a blue and purple-ish tint. That can only happen if the air itself begins to get highly corrupted with mana. Just how powerful is that Syndra person? And why was a prison built upon a former castle which.. Man did they mess up well." The castle was, as Ezreal said, completely ravaged and not only it, but the land itself. Walls completely toppled over, towers destroyed, tall noxian flags burnt and the mixture of scarred grass from fire and mana was mixing into an unrecognizable mess.

"Well whatever it is… mm that's good.. It's long in the past now. Thanks Poppy." Ezreal turned to see Poppy on the railguard in front of the ship wheel, leaning in to feed Yasuo the last few slices of their homemade sandwiches as he continued to remain at the helm.

"You guys are unbelievable." Ezreal facepalmed with a grin as Yasuo chuckled."Hey man. Might as well get some more sleep or play cards with Poppy after I finish eating. We're still a ways off. We'll be traveling during the night anyways."

"Wait what!?" Poppy and Ezreal said in unison as Poppy pulled the sandwich away from Yasuo as he was leaning into bite. He frowned, "What? We're all pretty rested, right? I mean I've been handling the ship with bare minimum sleep so at least you two shouldn't even be complaining." He retorted as Poppy angrily shook her head, opting to hand Ezreal the sandwich she was going to feed Yasuo as the Prodigal Explorer happily ate it with furrowed brows

"Wha-hey! That was mine! Why are you guys so against traveling at night?!"

"Ghosts." They both said in unison as Yasuo let out a deep and long sigh. "Y'know, Ezreal can get a pass but come on Poppy? Aren't you from a spiritual realm? Aren't you essentially sorta like a ghost?" Yasuo was half joking but the expression Poppy's face turned into was far from one. The Yordle looked as if she was immediately sent into an existential crisis as Yauso's eyes widened. "Well I mean.. Y'know, joking of course! You're nothing like one." Poppy jumped slightly and smiled. "Oh! Ok then. Good joke! You had me for a minute." Poppy laughed with Yasuo awkwardly nodding and laughing as well, knowing he barely saved his friend from a mental crisis.

"Riiiight… Anyways, listen, we're in Ionia. As long as you don't go down cutting down trees there'll be no evil ents or spirits attacking you… I think." Poppy and Ezreal yelped as Yasuo laughed. "I'm kidding! But no, I want to make it to Navori quickly. Besides, surprisingly, Bandits are more active during the daytime. Cause y'know, most can meld into thin air considering a lot of them are just rogue ninjas."

It was Ezreal's turn to sigh. "Damn… I mean you make a good point. But aren't we ya know… super strong? I have some ancient Shuriman gauntlet, Poppy has a gigantic hammer, and I mean you at the very minimum have a short sword."

"You'd be surprised but a lot of the techniques of wind magic I do, the sword's length and curvature played a part in it. My usage of wind magic is innate, considering well.. Air is all around us but I doubt it'll be nearly as effective. The magic was a good combo with the swordsmanship. Been awhile since I used magic without a sword anyways. At least I won't be bedridden from mana exhaustion though.." Ezreal snorted at Yasuo's cheeky rebuttal. "Yeah yeah. At least my mana exhaustion came from saving our asses. Anyways, I get your point. Guess we can just travel whenever. I'll catch up on some more sleep before we make it to land. You coming as well Poppy?" The Yordle hummed to herself momentarily before agreeing and joining him, jumping off the railing and landing on the stairs leading to the sleeping quarters as Ezreal followed. "Wake us when we're there!" He called as Yasuo nodded."Yup. I gotcha." As their footsteps got quieter Yasuo laughed to himself.

"Well.. most of the spirits are friendly.. Azakana on the other hand… not so much. Oh well. Hope you made decent strides in your conquest, Yone." Yasuo spoke softly with a smile as he continued to maneuver their ship to the coming shoreline.


"Surprisingly, all's clear. We hit land and I think we're all intact." Yasuo whispered rather quietly, not hoping to completely rip his friends out from their slumber and dreams. Yasuo brought them to his mystical home of Ionia. They both rose from their beds, with Ezreal getting out much quicker than Poppy as he turned and shook her.

"Come on Poppy… time to get on land." The Yordle's eyes finally opened as she yawned loudly and nodded, eyeing them. "Turn around at least.."Ezreal and Yasuo completely forgot in the moment that Poppy was a female and Yasuo brought Ezreal out on the deck as he was already clothed, having worn his clothing to sleep.

"Damn… this place is beautiful up close. If only Piltover wasn't completely crazed with technology it could have some natural beauty like this." Ezreal was taking in the spiraling mystic trees, the fauna and vegetation that completely varied in color and style along with the slowly coming night which sparkled beautifully in a clear, polloutless sky, something Ezreal has rarely seen back home.

"Suppose so, yeah. But that tech you guys got, I won't lie, wish I had some of it here. Asking the spirits to do something can get old sometimes… especially if they're unwilling." Ezreal chuckled,"Yeah. Imagine if your spiritual house suddenly decided it doesn't want you living in it anymore and just completely disappears." Yasuo joined Ezreal in laughter as the Yordle finally came from their sleeping quarters, clad in her usual plated armor as she gave them a soft and sleepy smile."Ready..." She quietly said as, routinely, she climbed up Yasuo and rested herself on his head as he smiled."Comfortable?"

"Mmm.." The sleeping yordle responded as Ezreal laughed."Damn, didn't even take in the beauty-Oh right! Poppy, your glamor!"

Yasuo shook his head. "She's fine here. Ionia is aware and accepting of Yordles. In fact, one of the most prestigious beings in Ionia is a Yordle, Kennen of the Kinkou Order. Insanely fast and powerful Yordle at that."

"Oh yeah. Kennen. Been a while since I saw him.." Poppy said with a deadpan voice as Yasuo laughed. "Right I forgot, it'd make sense for you to know him as well. How long has it been?"

"Mm.. 90 or so years.."

"Well, perhaps we can change that. Drop by their monastery." Yasuo led them off the plank which brought them to the shoreline of the beach just across from Fae'lor. Ezreal turned and eyed the ship, laughing as he eyed Yasuo. "Isn't it funny how you conveniently got a shrinking hex-powered ship from a small town away from Piltover? And it's the only one of its kind?" Yasuo raised a brow as he went to the helm of the ship, pressing a button the the tip of it which shrunk the ship down, placing it in the bottle and sealing it back up, dropping it in his satchel.

"Hmm… I guess? I don't complain though. Helps get around. Maybe that uhh.. Weird inventor person Jayce brought up was in the village and decided to give it up."

"Zindelo? There's… there's no way. Do you know how groundbreaking it'd be if Zindelo was just, chilling in Holdrum this entire time? She's practically known across Runeterra now. The world's lucky none of her inventions were combat-related. Though, this is all under the assumption that she's alive. I mean Piltover officially said she "died" but there's no way. Perhaps she was getting too close to something…" Ezreal begins to mumble something incomprehensible to the best friends as Poppy shrugged, knowing she wouldn't get close to an answer herself.

"Anyways, guess we should get to moving?" Yasuo scanned their surroundings briefly; The familiar feeling of his home washed over him again. Truth be told: It's been awhile since he was in Ionia as well; something over a few years ago after his fateful encounter with his now restructured brother, Yone, who had a new objective in mind.

The land felt similar, yet oddly different. The trees moved with the familiar life it has within it and the shimmering grass beneath the dawning sun still shone brightly… but something has changed.

"Should definitely keep our guard up. Hopefully my brother dealt with most things." Ezreal nodded before stopping and raising a brow."Wait wait wait. A BROTHER? You completely missed that detail! I didn't know that!"

"Oh you didn't? Yone? He was Yasuo's brother. Well, I suppose since he came back to life after Yasuo killed him. Did I explain he killed him? He did. But anyways his brother is alive and now he's a scary man who hunts demons or so Yasuo says." Yasuo thought upon Poppy's assessment of the story he told her countless times before agreeing with the rather blunt and short retelling of his quite tumultuous past.

"Yup. More or less. Caught up now Ez?" Ezreal continued to shake his head as he continued lagging behind them slightly as they made their way up a slightly paved road leading more into Ionia from the shoreline.

"No! Hell no! Resurrected? You killed him? I mean.. I thought a genius explorer losing his parents was pretty bad but killing your own brother? Was he evil or something?"

"Mmm.. not per say. Just… We were both adamant on our choices. Our very conflicting choices. I struck him down and thought it was the end of it. Was exiled, for both that murder of my brother and for being accused of murdering Elder Souma, leader of our village. But eventually, years later, it was found out a Noxian Girl by the name of Riven, well, not necessarily killed him but what she wanted did. She wanted her Runeblade broken and when attempting, the power killed him.

After that, I was forgiven for Elder Souma's death and my actions against my brother, but I still didn't forgive myself. Lots of things happened, I met this really kind and adorable girl, Taliyah, super strong mage from Shurima, thinking of… wondering what she's doing now? Anyways, a couple skips away and ends up meeting my brother during Spirit Blossom festival in Weh'le. Instead of striking me down he told me I must find myself and set off. Haven't seen him since then. So I did what he asked and found myself traveling with…."

"Me! Wait, me right?" Poppy asked as Yasuo laughed."That'd be you."

Ezreal was surprisingly quiet and was sniffing slightly as Yasuo, and Poppy by being on top of him, turned to him with surprised glares."Wha- are you ok Ezreal? Something up? Oh no.. is it the azakana.. My brother did tell me to watch out but I didn't think they'd come for me directly…"

Ezreal continued to sniff and shook his head. "No no… wait what? Azakana? What does that have to do with this? Are there spooky ghosts here after all?" Yasuo stared at him with a blank face and slowly shook his head as Poppy pulled on his hair. "Wait, you lied! There's spooky ghosts after all!"

"Ok ok… maybe there's a… possibility of lesser demons that roam in Ionia and feed on negative emotions until it devours its prey whole BUT… that's highly unlikely." Ezreal instantly turned around as Poppy began repeating nope and began to climb off of him as Yasuo grabbed the Yordle by her hand halfway and grabbed Ezreal by the back of his coat.

"No no. We're already here. Besides, we got this, no demon can stop us.. I think." Yasuo murmured the last part as he feigned a smile. "Come on! Gotta explain why you were crying anyways." Yasuo let go of both of them as Poppy begrudgingly climbed back up onto her usual spot and Ezreal sighed, eyeing around him. "Cause the story was sad. Duh. Sorry that happened to you." Yasuo smiled as he rubbed Ezreal on the head, walking ahead of him once more. "It's the past now. I found what I wanna do and my brother is.. Mostly alive. Sorta. I can work on that. And hey: Got two best friends too. Can't ask for much more than that. A Piltovian and Yordle friends. Sounds about right.''He chuckled as Ezreal's face flushed slightly in color.

"Y-you mean it? Best friend?" Ezreal giggled and scratched his chin as Poppy furrowed her brows."Wait a second! I'M your best friend not HIM! No offense Ezreal." Ezreal seemingly snapped back into reality as he nodded.

"That is true… though I'm like, a really good friend at least, right?" Yasuo chuckled, half nervous relief cause he didn't need to shoot Ezreal down and the other half genuine."Of course. We're in for the long game here Ez and that's gonna require a good friend." Ez smirked and nodded."Damn straight. Now lead the way… which would be where by the way?"

The swordsman stroked his scruff at the Prodigal Explorer question. Truth be told: He wasn't particularly too sure of himself.. "I.. I don't know. I mean, he moves around a lot. Y'know, with him being an elusive and legendary Blacksmith after all.." As Yasuo pondered on his thoughts and Ezreal began thinking on his own whilst they headed up the hill leading well into Ionia. Poppy on the other hand was whistling lightly, resting on top of Yasuo's head as per usual before a lamppost lit up in her head.

"Oh! Why don't we go to your village? Aren't they like, good with secrets n stuff? Wouldn't they know where some secret guy is?"

Ezreal excitedly looked up to Poppy with a smirk, leaning up to pat her on the head. "Damn didn't think ya' had it in your Poppy! Why didn't we think of that?" Yasuo's train of thought was broken as he agreed with Ezreal. "Damn, why didn't we? Seems like that was the obvious answer all along. Might be some complications but nothing I cannot talk myself out of-or well, us. Good thinking, Poppy." He jokingly said with a laugh.

Poppy frowned a bit, taking Yasuo's statement as an insult. "Are you saying I'm simpleminded!?" Yasuo shook his head-and by association, Poppy as well. "No! Just meant… didn't really think of the obvious you know? Kinda was thinking all over Ionia. Placidium, Weh'le, Wuju Monastery, all those good places. But yeah: let's make way for my home then. I still don't think I should be allowed… but they insist after I was absolved for my crimes I'm allowed and they don't blame me for Elder Souma's death.." Poppy stroked Yasuo's hair and shook her head.

"Everything's a-ok now Yasuo! You're in good hands!" Poppy grinned as Ezreal nodded, "Yup! We got your back now. Especially me! I'm the best assistance around." Ezreal stroked his own ego as the duo rolled their eyes with smiles. "Hey what's with the eye roll!? Come on now I am pretty good right g-"Yauso quickly covered Ezreal's mouth, forcefully grabbing him and shifting behind a tree, ducking them into a large bush as Ezreal murmured whilst his mouth was covered.

"Ssh." Yasuo silently spoke as he leaned to his side a bit, his eyes scattering across the upcoming road. Poppy climbed off his head and looked to the street as well before seeing the same thing Yasuo saw: "People." Yasuo finally pulled away his hand from Ezreal's mouth as the Explorer instantly retorted, "People? Why are we hiding from-"

"Not just any-Members of the Navori Brotherhood. Ultra-nationlist people. Messy group. And… I'm still wanted by them. I don't want to pick a fight and bring unwanted attention."

Ezreal simply kept quiet as Poppy motioned her hand forward slightly. "They're talking it seems… and it doesn't look friendly. Is.. is that a merchant? Move us closer Yasuo." Yasuo wanted to refuse but he knew Poppy's heroism would've made her act if he didn't. He began to shift within the high grass and between the trees, moving closer to the road as they were finally able to listen in.

"We don't want any trouble, ok? Just pay your toll and we'll let ya' go safely." The bigger, more scruffier Navori spoke as the slender one near him kept his hand on what seemed to be a dagger. The middle-aged merchant panicked and his eyes looked around,"P-Please I don't have much on me! I-I need to earn money to feed my family and goods haven't been selling to well! I beg of you let me go!" Ezreal raised a brow at the Merchant, but not his response, the tone of his voice. If Ezreal knew anything from being rich it was one thing: How people sound when they're faking a voice and lying. The Merchant wasn't scared at all… was he?

"No can do… you either pay ya' toll or we'll earn it the hard way besides… We know you're hiding something. Something… expensive. We can't guarantee you'll be making out of this alive if you don't pay up." It was as if she was waiting for a tell tale sign and finally got it. Poppy jumped off Yasuo's head, using her magic to open up a portal and whipped out her hammer as she rushed out of the bushes, charging at them without a second of thought aside from knowing she will have backup in tow.

"Poppy! above!" Ezreal screamed out, instantly disappearing and teleporting ahead and shooting out hidden Navori members hiding within the top of the trees near the engagement spot with bolts of magic as Poppy slammed her hammer into the bigger Navori member, sending him flying she looked up and chuckled."Oh ya. You're right. Thanks Ez!" Yasuo sighed and rushed out of the bushes as well, pulling out his blade as he eyed two members trying to make an escape.

"No you don't! Blades of steel!"Yasuo did a three swipe motion in front of him, sending blades of wind magic swiping at the two escapee's legs as they instantly fell down, blood gushing out of their legs enough for them to moan and groan in agony, but not enough to completely cripple them.

"Keep you guys out of commission for a couple of weeks. Those are some deep cuts." He muttered as he made his way back to Ezreal and Poppy along with the merchant. The two effectively disposed of the rest, the bigger member was completely unconscious, the one with the dagger was right alongside him after being blasted by Ezreal's gauntlet and the two Ezreal shot out were quickly tied up by Poppy.

"Didn't think you knew how to tie rope Poppy!" Ezreal said, eyeing their culprits as Poppy grinned."Of course! Learned it 200 years ago!" Yasuo laughed as he eyed them next,"Let's hope it isn't outdated.

"A Piltovian… a Yordle and… you're.. You're…. Yasuo correct? What a strange group…" The merchant spoke with curiosity before quickly bowing, prostrating himself on the ground."M-my apologies though! Thank you for saving my life.. I couldn't afford guards but I didn't think the inner Navori roads were so unsafe… guess patrol hasn't made its way around. Still. Thank you! Is there… is there anything I can do?"

"See… there's that tone again." Ezreal spoke, rubbing his chin before eyeing the merchant once more."I don't mean to be rude gramps but.. You don't seem particularly… startled or scared. Or maybe I'm just losing it." Ezreal laughed as he realized the three of them was more or less giving him confused looks as he shook his head.

"Guess I'm a lil' crazy… nevermind. Take it from here then Yasuo." Ezreal took one more glanced at the confused merchant before Yasuo awkwardly nodded.

`Hm… no doubt they'll just come after you after they finally get out of their bonds and wake their friends. You're traveling up to the Placidium right? Suppose we can use your guidance. And so you don't get hurt."

"Y-you'll be willing to protect me? The famed wind swordsman? And by the spirits… a Yordle as well? And a Piltovian? To think this is even happening. Of course Yasuo! H-how much do you want I-" Yasuo quickly shook his head."No need for payment. Your services are good enough. Say, got any medical herbs or bandages in your carriage?" Yasuo eyed the merchant's small carriage filled with a couple of crates and nothing more, enough for him to be able to pull but not requiring an actual animal to haul around.

"I-I think I do. Why's that?" Ezreal pointed a finger at the two bleeding Navori members just further ahead of them, which Yasuo quickly dispatched." Think those guys might need some, they'll have some nasty wounds. The rest can help themselves."

Yasuo shifted through the merchant's carriage before finding some herbs and scraps of wool. He sighed and walked over to the two who were bleeding still as they groaned in pain, he threw the herbs and scraps of wool between them."Not gonna let you die out here for petty crime. Your efforts are wasted on the Navori Brotherhood. Believe me. I'd know." He spoke before leaving them without hearing their retort.

"Come along then guys. Don't wanna waste anymore time near this lot." Yasuo spoke as Ezreal stretched himself and nodded, catching up with Yasuo as Poppy did as well, dispersing her hammer once more and climbing up on Yasuo with the merchant now following in tow.

"T-the Navori will find you! Yasuo.. .the Unforgiven!" Yasuo gripped his blade but quickly composed himself as he turned back to the one who spoke, who was hastily wrapping his wounds up along with his friend."They can attempt to do whatever they want. Doubt I'll be bowing to the Brotherhood anytime soon though." He gave them a cold smirk as he led the group ahead and well past the bandits.

The path began to slowly become more structured and paved along with lampposts actually becoming visible.

"Seems we're moving well into the lands now. So, your name?" Yasuo asked the merchant as the middle-aged man laughed."Oh my apologies! Xiu." The merchant laughed once more as Yasuo nodded before turning once more.

"Wait! Xiu? As in, the Xiu related to Doran? Aren't you essentially his right hand man? At least, what I heard back in the village." Xiu chuckled and nodded his head once more. "What you heard is indeed correct. I work in the shadows of ol' Doran more or less. Been awhile, Yasuo. In fact… haven't seen you since you were a teen. Lot has happened. And changed."

"And my my, surprised you caught on such a small detail, Piltovian. Sorry for making you seem crazy. You're right. I was putting on airs. If I drew any more attention to myself they would've ran back with information of some martial artist old guy carrying goods around. And more eyes on me isn't good. Thankfully you guys just happened to be in the area so it made things a lot easier to just play the role of hapless merchant." Xiu laughed as Ezreal sighed, knowing he's not crazy.

"A trained martial artist making others do his dirty work. Unbelievable." Yasuo laughed as Xiu frowned."No way to talk to your elders, boy. Besides! It's not often I get to see Piltovian shooting magic and a hammer wielding Yordle fight. Not like Kennen running around swinging hammers the lil ol' guy."

Poppy snorted,"He is pretty old, yeah. He's still meek and quiet?" Poppy asked as Xiu nodded."Yup! He comes around the Wuju Monastery rarely but never changes. As elusive and fast as ever. Just like lightning. What about you, kid? What's your gig?" Xiu pointed to Ezreal as Ezreal frowned."Kid? Come on, gramps I just saved you! And expertly exposed your lies" Xiu chuckled and nodded,"Ok ok. Young man then. Friend of yours Yasuo?" Yasuo nodded.

"Yup. Poppy and Ezreal."

Xiu smiled."I'm just glad you're in good hands. What brought you back here? Last I heard you were spotted leaving after the Spirit Festival."

"My name gets around like that now?"

"Anyone named from that village gets around 'like that'. Especially if they were the prodigal students of Elder Souma AND essentially a one in a million chance with such innate affinity towards wind magic" Yasuo sighed and nodded his head."Suppose you're right… Truth be told though, gramps, you're exactly the man I'm looking for. You and Doran at least. Truth be told: I broke my sword." Yasuo thought the best way to approach this would to just bluntly put it and so he did.

Xiu almost instantly fell over when Yasuo said that as Ezreal quickly caught him leaning forward."Woah there! You ok?"

"B-b-broke? Yasuo do you have any idea what this means!?" Xiu spoke, his shock quickly changing to anger as he grabbed Yasuo by his poncho as the Swordsman nervously shook his head."N-no…? It can be fixed right?"

"Fixed!? ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR-" Xiu quickly composed himself and sighed. "When Doran hears of this he's going to kill you. You know that right? I'd kill you myself for breaking it but Doran is the one who put in all the work. And unfortunately for you: Your end is near… Doran is in your village at the moment. He was who I was going to anyway."

"Shit.. didn't think it'd be that bad.. I'm sure we can work something up though right? You two are the best around!"

Xiu sighed, shaking his head."Our skill hasn't aged. The problem is, boy, the materials required. I fear some may not even exist anymore…"

"Damn. You really messed up this one huh Yasuo?" Ezreal said, letting out a slow whistle as Xiu sighed once more.

"How the hell did you even break the sword anyways?" It was the group's turn to nervously laugh as the once kind and laughing Xiu furrowed his brows in anger, already knowing full well he wouldn't like the answer."

"It's a uh… long story…" Yasuo sorta lied as Xiu pointed up."Well, the day is a way's off from nightfall, Yasuo and we're a long way from a town to stop by. Believe me: You got time. So go on. Do tell one of the blacksmiths who poured effort into making your blade that was supposed to be nigh indestructible how you managed to.. B-b-break it into two pieces…. I was wondering why you were using a broken sword…"

Yasuo laughed,"So it all begins…"

"...And then it broke in half." Xiu bursted into laughter as Yasuo quickly joined him and nervously, Poppy and Ezreal as well as Xiu's laughter died out after an uncomfortable amount of time.

"So… not only did you break the blade in foreign land… but it wasn't even in battle! You broke it during a drunken buffoonery! I said Doran was going to kill you half-jokingly but he just might after that!" Xiu's comment was a mixture of anger and laughter as Yasuo' nervousness and fear of Doran only began to grow more and more as they continued on their journey.

"Weird though… I never heard of you gramps-No offense, but like, literally I just.. Never. Doran is known across Runeterra I imagine but I never heard your name, and you've collaborated with Doran on virtually everything?" Xiu nodded.

"None taken, and yes, I have. Though that was intentional, me not being known. Doran is attributed with all the credit after all." Xiu plainly said as everyone more or less raised a brow.

"Whuh.. why is that?" Ezreal simply retorted as Xiu laughed.

"What would you do if you were told that in a certain area, huddled in an increasingly dusty Monastery, are two old people making some of the finest weaponry across Runeterra and one was rumored to be taught by the God of Forge himself? Well, if it was one, you'd laugh it off and move on with your day. But two? That's a big deal."

"So… it's simply a coverup? In case something was to ever happen with Doran you're basically on par with him?" Yasuo asked and Xiu nodded once more.

"You got it, Yasuo. Besides, I need no fame, as long as I can put a roof over my head, afford good tea, and can sleep soundly, Doran can have all the fame he wants, not like he cares for it either though these days."

"What is he up to these days?" Yasuo was hoping to steer the conversation far away from his little incident as Xiu peered at him momentarily before eyeing the road once more, continuing to navigate them along the seemingly endless road.

"Preparation mostly. Tell me, you've heard the name Viego, yes? Surely you've had to by now."

"I'm… surprised you heard of him yourself, Xiu, but yeah, I've heard of him. Ruined King or something, right Poppy?" Xiu looked up to the Yordle on Yasuo's head who simply nodded, only listening in to the conversation.

"Right. That's the man I'm referring to. Everyone has begun to see the Black Mist and after Karma was attacked, and miraculously fended off whatever attacked her, the "Higher Ups" have been on alert. Doran and well, me, were commissioned to make weapons. Normal ones obviously, but also special weapons known for the slaying of Undead and oddly enough.. When we were in a pinch for materials, two individuals dropped off mostly exactly what we needed along with old schematics… and I could swear one of them walked with the mist alongside her.."

"Oh. Lucian and Senna. They're Sentinels of Light." Poppy finally spoke as Ezreal's eyes widened.

"Wait. You know Lucian and Senna!? Well, obviously you do considering how old you are. They're so cool! Hunters of the undead! I'm a big fan of them actually. In Demacia, I used a fake name, Jarro Lightfeather, Sentinel of Light, Eighth Order. I proclaim to be a national h-"

Everyone was smiling as Ezreal nerded out over his two idols as his face flushed with red matching the flowerbeds lining up the road leading closer and closer to the Placidium.

"I-I mean.. Yeah I know them. Or well, heard of them.." Ezreal cleared his throat and lowered his voice, as to sound a bit less of a fan.

"Hehe.. you're funny Ezreal-Oh yeah. But anyways, I know those two. They wanted me to join them but I told them now more than ever I gotta find that hero and so they simply let me off." Xiu took in Poppy's story with simple nods."Interesting.. They only came too long ago.. Or maybe a little over a few months now. Things are happening, and in an odd manner. Viegos's attacking pattern is nothing short of odd and definitely furthest thing from thought out and militaristic.. Wonder what's even his end goal-Eh.. perhaps I shouldn't be speaking out too loudly. With the Shadow Order and Navori running about…" Xiu's eyes scanned about their surroundings before shrugging and dropping the conversation in one bout. Yasuo agreed and after a brief moment of silence steered the conversation a bit away.

"Not to.. Sound egotistical, Xiu, but how are things looking with… me? Is my face still plastered everywhere with bounties on my head?" Even then Yasuo glanced around their surroundings briefly as they continued to make their way to a nearby settlement and stopping point along the road to Placidum and heart of Ionia.

"Oh right.. Completely forget that sorta detail in your story. And you just told me too. Oopsies." Ezreal laughed as Yasuo rolled his eyes and Poppy giggled.

'Bounties? I didn't even know you had them on your head to be quite frank. Rather, just your head and nothing more. Anyways: no, not really. Of course you'll raise your eyes, being a student of the late Elder and your prodigal use of wind magic but.. Nothing more. Besides, whispers have been traveling of a dual wielding swordsman scouring the night lately anyhow.." Yasuo dared not react. Instinctively, as if their friendship allowed them to feel each other's emotion, Ezreal eyed Yasuo and Poppy looked at the expression on Ezreal's face:

"Don't mention that it's probably Yone."

"Dual wielding swordsman? Weird. Wouldn't bring it past Ionia with its ghosts and azakana and all."

"That's the thing though.. Apparently there's been less sightings of azakana. Again, what I've heard. Apparently this odd swordsman hunts them. No one has really laid eyes upon him though." Yasuo was shocked and a little scared at how quickly Xiu is catching up or rather, piecing the story all together.

"How far is the Placidum anyhow? And home that is." Yasuo once again steered the conversation away and Xiu paid no mind to it.

"Hmm.. we're coming up on Xay'lael we can rent a carriage and maybe it'll be… few days? Nothing much. And as we all know, to ruin a secret for your friends, your village is hidden within the side of the mountains near the Placidum."

Poppy snorted."It'd be pretty funny if a very bad enemy heard that right now. Imagine." Ezreal and Xiu slowly turned to Poppy as Yasuo, although Poppy couldn't see, raised a brow as well.

"What? Too dark?" Poppy questioned as Xiu laughed. "Didn't expect someone of your character to make a joke like that. Though I suppose that'd be funny… in a dark way of course. The secrecy of Yasuo's rather small village is paramount. Especially with the days to come. Noxians and this Viego character and all.."

"Troubling days ahead. That's why we gotta make it to that good ol' village of yours. And fix that blade too!" Xiu instantly frowned once he quickly remembered that Yasuo's blade was indeed broken.

"That completely escaped my mind for a minute too, Ezreal, thank you.." Xiu turned around, glaring daggers at Yasuo as Ezreal nervously chuckled while Yasuo eyed him in turn."N-no problem gramps…"

"Truth be told though Yasuo… some of the materials you may need, thinking on the top of my head.. You might need to break a couple of rules for.. Not that I particularly care but… others might. I don't know if I can professionally advise it but I can at least throw it out in the wind for you." Xiu was pondering in thought for a moment as Yasuo raised a brow again.

"Like what, to be specific? Breaking rules isn't… beneath me."

"Well, for one, the steel its made out of.. It's unharvestable during this time of year… BUT, the Shadow Order has a vault of it. They keep it for the higher ranking members since Ionian Truesteel is very hard to not only harvest, but refine. Granted though: It's insanely strong, durable, and has wonderful properties when combined with magic itself."

"So breaking and entering? I'm good with that." Ezreal raised his hand with a smirk as Yasuo pointed to him."True. Ezreal's the best thief I know-"

"I'm not a thief! Just.. I happen to take the loot from the-Ok fine you caught me but at least it serves its uses. Like now. So what's this, Shadow Order stuff? Thought it was called Order of Shadows? Or is it interchangeable…"

"Don't stress the details, Ezreal. Nonetheless, I suppose if you DO steal it then it's fine but you'll have to be good sleuths. Especially since you know… they're kinda like Ninjas. Stealth is their forte." Ezreal nervously laughed as Poppy interjected.

"That's ok. If all else fails, I can try to use my magic.. Though the last time that happened…"

"You almost killed me? Yeah." Poppy chuckled as Yasuo sighed. Xiu and Ezreal eyed them with slightly worried expressions as Xiu commented."I-Is that not a big ordeal? Why are you two laughing it off?"

"The ush'." Yasuo simply put as Xiu facepalmed. "Continuing, it just keeps getting worse honestly. There's another big part: You have to talk to the Great Tree at the end of your village forest… and ask for its bark. Something that doesn't happen without going through its trial..

A trial that normally no one comes out unscathed and pleading to the shamans.. Yeah.. I remember."

"Should've expected the Grand Trial from a spiritual tree. Rookie mistake." Ezreal chimed in. "Any other problems we need to know of?"

"Surprisingly, no. But those two steps along will probably have their own trials and tribulations. Shaping the blade, making it, sheathing, hilt, fabricating, all of that we can do. WITH TIME, mind you, but we can do it. The two biggest steps though are all for you lot."

"Hmm… think we can handle that. Shouldn't we.. start heading towards this Order Shadow guys place then? Since we.. have a mission n' all?"

"Temple of Thanjuul… you guys can.. And meet me back at your village, Yasuo. It'll probably be a smarter choice anyhow… less eyes on us. I get that seeing Yordles in Ionia is common and all but not one on top of a Swordsman head with a Piltovian right next to them to boot."

"Might be a smart idea.. Do you think you can make it back safely?" Just when Xiu was finally letting his anger go, he glared daggers at Yasuo once more. "You dare insult me, boy? I don't fight to draw too much attention. If I wanted I'd have apprehended those bandits in one fell swoop." Yasuo chuckled and raised his hands as a sign of conceding his notion."My bad my bad, Xiu. You're right." Xiu smiled before nodding his head. "Thank you though, boy. It's good to see you healthy and smiling again. The look on your face after the court meeting was grim. I couldn't discern what your motives were next. Glad to see you're on solid ground now." Yasuo simply smiled and nodded, eyeing Ezreal and glancing up a bit.

"Yeah.. feels good. Now. Suppose we should break here. I can see Xay'lael from here-"

"Nonsense. Rest up and eat. You can share an inn room as well. Take a nice bath while you're at it, not too many chances will come up."

Ezreal took a sniff of himself and cringed a bit before nodding."Y-Yeah, how about we take a quick stop, Captain? Sounds like a smart plan before we go fight some ninjas n' all…" Ezreal wiped the look of grimace off his face as Yasuo agreed."How about it, Poppy? Sounds good?" Poppy jolted up before looking around and slowly agreed."... Yes?"

"It appears the little one was asleep, Captain." Poppy blushed at Xiu pointing out that Poppy indeed dozed off for a bit as they continued their travel to Xay'lael. They couldn't blame her to be fair. Aside from their little run in with the Navori, taking in Ionia's scenery was nothing but splendid. The vibrant colors that blended in well with each other. Seeing lush green trees and animals frolocking about without the constant sound of steel clashing against steel or bargaining out in the streets like it was in Piltover.

"We're going to take a stop here for the night, Poppy. Rest up and then we're going to head to the.. Y'know what. I think I shouldn't be speaking too loudly anymore.." Poppy nodded as she jumped off of Yasuo's head and instantly it held so much lighter, cracking his neck instantly in satisfaction.

"Sounds good! Or well.. Should I really walk into town… y'know? Like this?" Xiu shrugged."Should be fine. Aside from one of our more famous Yordles being Kennen, you guys are commonplace here in a land where interacting with the spirits is commonplace. You'll be fine." Poppy's small bit of nerves went away as she nodded. Soon enough, the sounds of Xay'lael became more profound as the people walking about in the streets and interacting with each other became more clearer and in view.

"Halt! State your- Master Xiu? A Yordle? And.. is that…"

"The Swordsman? Yasuo?" The other guard stationed in the entrance of the town spoke, peering at Yasuo's build. "By the spirits, it is. What an odd group we have here. No doubt you guys will be the talk of town. Good to see you, Master Xiu."

"Drop the formalities, you two. I'm just a simple and old martial artist" A warm smile was on Xiu's face as the two guards bowed and moved out of the way."Of course, Xiu. It's good to see you. All of you… even got a.."

"Piltie. Not a Noxian so don't worry." Ezreal smiled as Xiao nodded."Wouldn't be the first Noxian I welcomed. You're fine. Good to see you. Welcome to Xaey'lael. Enjoy your stay." Ezreal awkwardly bowed slightly as Xiu and Yasuo stifled laughter as Xiu led them into the small town a ways away from the Placidium as Xiao turned to his friend.

"You saw that Yordle cute little pigtails?"

"Cutest thing I've seen in awhile." He retorted back with a smile as they both sighed in relief. Poppy heard it all as it barely escaped her ears as her face flushed with a red color much to Yasuo's enjoyment.

"They're not wrong. Looking cute, Poppy." Ezreal and Xiu chuckled as Poppy furrowed her brows."S-shut it!" She stammered as Xiu continued to lead them along."Thankfully Sleeping Crane has a nice onsen in the back. One of the best in the land might I add. I remember coming here with Doran not too long ago."

"Did you see the tattoos on that girl's back in the inn?"

"Yeah.. insanely detailed.. And scary, fitting her. She's quite a hard lady to talk with, it seems, nevermind the person she was with." The seemingly couple walked past the group and they all couldn't help but listen in.

"Seems like we're not the only stars in the town. You'd think we'd have them beat too with a Yordle n' all. " Ezreal joked as Xiu kept a rather straight face."Dragon tattoos accompanied by a rather hard to talk individual? Hm.. suppose it could only be…" Yasuo himself wasn't exactly sure before finally he realized.

"Oh… those two? Well. Better than it being others I suppose…" Poppy and Ezreal looked at each other at the same time, both with dissatisfied looks as Poppy finally called out."Well? Gonna inform the rest of us here about what you two mean? Who is it?" The two Ionians finally broke out of their collaborated train of thoughts to look at their two blissfully ignorant companions as Yasuo laughed."Just uh.. Some folks from a known name. You don't need to worry about them. Now. Where's that Sleeping Crane you were talking about Xiu? Think we've done quite enough walking today.." Yasuo eyed the afternoon sky as nightfall was slowly approaching. Xiu motioned ahead along the street."Just down the street. Can't miss it. Let's get a move on then, somehow Yasuo's "old" bones are gonna give out before mine." Xiu snorted as Poppy and Ezreal laughed with Yasuo rolling his eyes and continuing to follow Xiu as their de-facto tour of the town continued.

"Quite a small town though, huh? Or well, maybe I'm just used to Piltover and Zaun's towns.. Which aren't really towns thinking of, more like districts and wha-Y'know let me just end this train of thought-"

"Tis' true, your first notion wasn't wrong. Xay'lael is quite the small town in comparison to others along with our cities, though for us, most people still live in villages and the like. Bustling cities with smoke filling the air and people running about on odd moving hex-vehicles has still not settled yet. We're still attuned to nature and respect her as such." Xiu firmly educated Ezreal very quickly as the Piltovian slowly nodded his head.

"Though, from what I heard, I wouldn't mind one of those myself." Xiu smiled, easing up on Ezreal as the Prodigal Explorer chuckled."Would ya'? When we find Poppy's old man of a hero I'll make sure to come back around and you can try one of them out."

"I'll hold you to that then, Ezreal-oh. We're here." Xiu promptly stopped at the Sleeping Crane, a rather larger building in comparison to the other stores, trading markets, and the like they passed by on the way here. Oddly enough, they couldn't really hear too much activity despite it being, well, an inn. Xiu pushed open the door in the front and instantly delicious smells of freshly baked foods and savory meats hit them and it didn't take any time for their ecstatic Yordle friend's ears to perk up.

"Something smells good…" She said, her words drooling as Yasuo laughed."Can eat after you bathe."

"Xiu. Didn't think you'd be showing up." The rather large man who was in front of a counter which acted as a bar table itself was cleaning ornate glasses as his eyes quickly scanned the party before sighing.` "And you brought a Yordle, the Wanderer, and a Piltovian. What did you get yourself into this time?" The hardened man seemed to know it all from mere glances as Xiu chuckled before settling down in front of the countertop, taking a seat as he eyed him.

"Nothing of grandeur at least. Just seeing these young folks around Hessin. Nothing more. Speaking of, can we have some rooms for the night?" Hessin eyed Xiu as the man dropped a rather sizable pouch of coins on the counter as Hessin sighed. "Told the folks before you I'd let them have the place for the night but.. Seeing as how you both are of like-minded company. Doubt it matters. They can have the final say considering they're listening in."

"I do not mind. I know of them after all. It's good to see you, Master Xiu. And you, Yasuo." A stout and built man wearing simple leather clothing, though a keen eye can see it was neatly designed. The man came down the stairs and in tow was a young woman with highly detailed dragon tattoos sprawled across her back, long black hair tied up into a ponytail wearing similarly simple clothing as well with faint imprints and designed across its green fabric.

"Guess we were on the money. Nice to see you too, Shen." Yasuo eyed Shen who offered a small smile. Meanwhile the girl behind him only eyed Yasuo with sharp, judgemental eyes as she turned her gaze onto his companions.

"What have you gotten yourself into now, Yasuo?" She finally spoke, breaking her gaze off of Ezreal as Ezreal let out a sigh of relief.

"Nothing too big. Just trying to get my sword repaired. Happen to know someone who can repair this, Akali?" Yasuo pulled out the broken blade from its sheath as Akali eyed it and sighed deeply. "Surprised Xiu didn't beat your ass for breaking that. Even I know how hard that is to repair." Shen redirected his gaze onto Yasuo's broken blade as he frowned. "As do I. I thought the material for the blade was scarce. Do you even have any available, Master Xiu?" Xiu finally was prompted to reply as he paused for a bit before nodding."Of course." However, as the group might have known: That was a complete lie.

"Oh? Well, see that you don't stress Master Xiu out too much then, Yasuo." Yasuo waved his hand in dismissal to Shen whilst nodding as the Eye of Twilight smiled and chuckled."Good. Perhaps you can teach Akali some of your listening skills too." Shen continued to uncharasterically joke as Akali turned to him and attempted to step on his foot but he quickly moved it out of the way."I only kid Akali, no need to attempt to harm me. After all, you'll harm my… balance." Akali groaned loudly as Shen laughed, opening the door of the Sleeping Crane as Akali followed afterwards."We'll be back later! Just gonna take a quick walk!" Akali called out as she shut the door behind them and they were off into the night, if only temporarily.

Yasuo, meanwhile, was still in shock at Shen's odd.. Well, non serious side. "Has Shen always been one to crack jokes?" Yasuo asked, pointing at the door with a bewildered look still. Xiu laughed and shook his head. "Nope. Though I suppose he warms up around Akali. She is something of a daughter to him. A very rebellious daughter but one nonetheless."

"Rebellious kid, huh? Nothing new." Ezreal laughed before everyone turned to him."Aren't you also essentially a rebellious kid?" Ezreal frowned and shook his head."What!? I'm almost 21!" Poppy chuckled loudly."Right right, exactly my point. A kid."

Ezreal rolled his eyes."Very funny Poppy. You're a Yordle, I'm sure we're all kids to you." Xiu snorted. "Good. Helps me feel less old if Miss Poppy thinks of me as a kid. Helps me forget time is slowing me down a bit" Poppy grinned and shook her head."Nah! You're too wise for that gramps! Definitely not a kid." Xiu twitched slightly at the words,"Gramps" as he was once again reeled into reality: He's not getting any younger. He slouched down as Hessin peeked into the back again before looking forward. 'Well, if it makes you feel better, you can go cleanse those old muscles of yours off, Xiu." Hessin laughed as Xiu shook his head with a smile. "Why, that would make this old man feel better, thank you very much." Xiu began to walk to the back as Yasuo beckoned the other two."Come along you two-Oh actually, Poppy you probably have to go to another o-"

"No, she's fine. They're unisex." Hessin interjected as he continued to rhythmically clean the ornate drinking cups and set them back neatly upon their shelves. "Oh? Ok then we shall see you there. Come on Ez."Yasuo and Ezreal begin to walk back as Poppy lagged behind, her face slightly turning red as Hessin peered at her and chuckled quietly.

"It's not like you're completely naked. Your.. important parts are wrapped up." Poppy looked up to him and slowly nodded.``T-thanks…" She said as she began to walk in the back of the Sleeping Crane to join them as well. "No problem. Don't forget to cleanse yourself up a bit before hopping in."Poppy nodded once more as she faded from the view of Hessin as he chuckled once more."Yordle in love with a Human? Pretty cute. Rooting for ya' little Poppy. Definitely got a bit of a stubborn one though." Hessin quietly murmured to himself as he continued to clean up his bar.

"Ahh… nothing beats this feeling. Well, making weapons definitely but this is a close second." Xiu said as he sighed deeply in satisfaction."How are you liking it, Ezreal?" Ezreal himself let out a loud sigh, signifying his enjoyment of the onsen as well.

"I can see why you guys like it so much, Gramps. This is amaaaazing…" Ezreal said as he sank into the cleansing water a bit further before the door opened to Poppy. Her hair was tied into one high ponytail as she looked around the onsen for a free spot before slowly getting in it, far away from the others.

"Why ya' so far, Poppy? Come closer. Don't wanna scream across the onsen now. Hessin might get mad at us." Yasuo joked as he moved a bit, beckoning Poppy to come sit next to him as Ezreal himself made room, opening up a spot between them for her.

Poppy stammered something quietly as Xiu stifle his laughter, finally catching on to what Hessin already caught up on as he smirked a bit."Well go on now, Poppy." He commented as the Yordle finally got up and began to move towards them, finally settling down between the two as Yasuo smiled. "Nice! How do you like it yourself, Poppy? Though you did just get in. Maybe I should give you some time before asking."

"Umm… good good. We don't have anything like this in Demacia. Or well, there is something sorta like this in the Royal Castle but this feels more.. natural." Poppy was uncharastically careful with her words and spoke rather slowly, to the surprise of… everyone as Yasuo nodded."Nice nice. Glad you like it. Oh yeah… Master Xiu just to be clear you-"

"Lied to Shen and Akali? Yes. I sorta had to. I can't let them know we lack the material cause I'm under the assumption that Shen knows what goes on in the Order of Shadows, including their vault. If he finds out we're-or well, you guys are going to rob the Order of Shadows I highly doubt he'll allow you guys to get too far. The Kinkou, Order of Shadows, Navori, and all of that stuff operate on a very tense silver lining. No doubt he'll stop you from letting something tip over and have all out war breaking." Yasuo nodded his head. It made sense: One mistake and hell could break loose.

"Mmm… hearing that makes me slightly more worried. With all this Ruination stuff and finding the Hero and now potential war breaking out in Ionia? And imagine if word spread I was involved. Bet shit back home would get bad too.."

"More or less. That's why you SHOULDN'T HAVE BROKEN YOUR SWORD IN THE FIRST PLACE DAMMIT!" Xiu yelled as he sighed deeply before his face quickly turned back to a smile in uncanny speed."It's fine though. I believe in you guys." Yasuo dare not speak again as Poppy laughed. "I'm sure we'll be fine. Right guys?" Poppy's usual cheerfulness returned to her aszreal slowly shook his head. Even he was not convinced despite carrying the title of "Thief" and "Gravedigger" planted on him so firmly by Camille. Nonetheless, he responded. "Y-yeah.."

"Good. That's the spirit… now, enjoy the onsen before the night finishes and you're back on the move then." That was one thing they could all agree on as the sunk further into the water in unison, making sure not to dip their hair or head into the water as the all sighed in satisfaction.

"Can agree to that." Yasuo cracked his neck once more as Ezreal raised a brow. "How exactly can you carry a yordle wearing plated armor.. I sorta never had a chance to ask that." Yasuo stared at him for a bit before looking down to Poppy as Poppy eyed Ezreal.

"Magic." She simply stated as they all bursted into laughter and continued to enjoy their brief respite in the onsen.


"So. What's up? I take it you didn't wanna just take a walk with me?" Akali asked Shen as he laughed quietly. "Perceptive. And not wrong. It's about Yasuo and his friends." Akali raised a brow."Yasuo? I thought he was exempted from his crimes. Didn't they find out that some Noxian girl was involved?"

Shen shook his head. "Not in regards to that. I mean his blade. Here's the thing: Ionian Truesteel is very hard to obtain. It is found in the frigid mountain tops, near Puboe and I hear most Ionian Truemetal has already been extracted and used… which is why production of weapons have slowly moved to Zhyunite which boasts similar properties in withstanding blows and magic albeit coming out to be slightly heavier." Akali nodded, following along to what he was saying but was still confused. "I get what you're saying. His weapon is made out of rare, almost extinct material. What's the prob-" Akali caught her tongue as Shen eyed her. She came to the conclusion as well.

"Xiu lied." They both said in unison as Akali thought in silence for a moment before struggling."But why exactly does that matter? So what if he lied?"

"The problem is… not all of Ionian Truesteel is gone. There's very few reserves.. One in the heart of the Placidium, one in the Kinkou Order and one…"

Akali sighed, realizing the answer and now the future ordeal that may play out."... And one at the Temple of Thanjuul?" Shen laughed. "Unfortunately, yes. You're correct."

"So what? You think they're gonna waltz in the base of the Yanlei and steal some metal? No way they're the crazy right?" Shen once again simply blankly stared at her as Akali let out another dragged out sigh. "Of course they are. A reformed Swordsman who's a prodigy with wind magic, a Piltovian with a mysterious looking gauntlet and a Yordle, there's no way a group made of those characters can do anything but crazy things." Shen smiled. "I think so as well. Which leads me into my proposition.. Akali.. Can you tail them? At least so they don't get themselves into trouble? And if it comes to it, stopping them from stepping into Thanjuul?" Akali groaned as she settled herself onto a tree, looking out into the starry night.

"I thought you invited me out so I can stay out of trouble, not get into it. And besides, I don't work for the Kinkou Order anymore." Shen chuckled. "I know, though I thought if I openly invited you into trouble you'd be willing to accept it." Akali eyed Shen with a smirk as she laughed."Heh. Think I'm so simple minded, hmm? A teen girl ready to go wherever trouble is?" Before Shen could deny she stretched and nodded. "Fine. I will. But in compensation I want a full new set of smoke bombs, kunais, shurikens, and another kama, made out of Ionian Truesteel might I add." Shen groaned slightly but finally gave into her demands. "Very well. And more will be granted. Thank you, Akali." She smiled as she began to make her way back to the town."Yeah yeah. Now come on old man, let's get some rest." Shen chuckled to himself and began to catch up to her, ready to rest his "old man" body as Akali so often proclaims and ended this rather quiet, yet eventful day.


A/N:

Sorry for my absence to those who may read this. I often find myself caught in things and lots of things grab my attention and so I put other things off because of that and so I apologize. Lots has happened in terms of Runeterra as well with the release of Arcane(That I should get around to watching), Zeri, Renata Glasc, and teasing of novella on the Ruination. I wonder how I should incorporate newfound details and characters for future events but suppose it is as I say, in the future.

Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy this chapter and I do hope the next one comes out faster and I don't get swamped with things. See you next time.