Haylen Scarlett

Soe Scarlett (Uncle)

Midger Scarlett (Father)

Kenta Scarlett (Mother)

Ferra Scarlett (Younger Sister)

Haylen Scarlett is a shy and reclusive young man with much trouble communicating. He's soft spoken and can't stick up for himself, despite being trained rigorously throughout most of his life to become a Sun Soul Monk. He prefers not to fight, but will engage in a conflict if someone is in danger, running mostly on instinct. Outside of battle however, he hopes to support the team and start using his radiant magic for healing others.

## Physical Appearance

### Body

Haylen is a human cis male of mixed asian-caucasian race, 3:8. He is 5'4'' with a slim athletic build. His skin is a warm tan and has a healthy, rosy glow. His hair is long and wavy, appearing to rest just about where his hips are. The color of his hair is a light rose gold, that seems to ombré to a light blonde near the tips.

His face shape is square, with a small button nose and medium-thick pouty lips. His profile is rather flat. His eyebrows are black and thick, starting rather wide in the center of his face and tapering to a point. His eyes are a mix between caucasian and asian features, with thick upper lashes and thin lower lashes. His eyes are a bright saturated blue with golden flecks clearly visible.

### Clothing and Makeup

Haylen takes particular care to his appearance and loves to dress up in what he finds pretty. He usually has a full face of makeup and painted nails. His preferred makeup look is glam. Usually his eye look is a fade between gold on the inner corner, fading to dark red with a transitional pink color in between. His waterline is also usually lined with the same gold. He also wears pink lipstick or lipgloss.

His usual attire is a skintight dark red bodysuit with holes for the shoulders and digits to peek through. Over that is a pink off-shoulder dress with blue trim. It has short sleeves and a short triangular skirt that has slits on either side of his legs. The front and back skirt cloths are connected by blue straps with golden buttons. He wears a blue sash around his waist that passes through a large golden bead on his right hip, the cloth outside the bead hanging below his knees, ending in a cloudy white design. He also has thick golden wrist bands and ankle bands that are mostly opaque and very bright and reflective. His shoes appear similar to the bands, and are also golden, shiny and reflective. He also wears golden earrings. His hair is pulled back by a large golden bead similar to the one on his hip. The outfit seems to be a more saturated and fashionable alteration to what his father wore when he was seen in session.

He's also been known to wear more casual, frilly cute clothes when he knows he will not be fighting or on a mission that day. His preferred color palettes are pinks and reds, but almost any pastel color will please him.

## Personality

Haylen is soft-spoken with a shaky voice, and severely withdrawn. He keeps silent in most group interaction and almost only speaks when spoken to, though he has been known to reach out when he thinks one of his companions isn't feeling well. He is kind and usually tries to think of how someone else is feeling before acting. He doesn't like to argue and tries to avoid any kind of confrontation, in battle and out. His crippling social anxiety prevents him from being able to look someone in the face to communicate with them, however if he becomes more comfortable with someone he does eventually manage the courage to look and make a deeper connection.

Haylen gets embarrassed easily, especially if special attention is paid to him. He'll either attempt to escape the situation, or ramble until the point he wanted to convey is finally met. A conversation with him will usually consist of either short and weak answers, or long winded and rambling strings of words as he attempts to gather his thoughts.

Because of Haylen's difficulty with communication, he doesn't seem to understand something unless it is clearly explained to him. Sarcasm, lies, and innuendo will pass right by him, and he often won't even realize he missed anything. He is very gullible and will believe just about anything someone tells him, mostly because he wants to believe the best in people.

Despite his aversion to confrontation, he can be very determined if he's resigned himself to give in to a challenge. Usually this is brought out when someone he cares for is hurt or struggling. He may seem rather unwilling to participate in something unless he sees that happening. He may even stand up for his companions verbally if he thinks the situation calls for it.

In battle he doesn't usually think, and tends to run through on instinct. He may not realize the true danger of a situation until after it's over, but sometimes he does process the danger and knows he could very well be seriously hurt. However he won't give up when he feels he must do something, even if he's trembling in fear. He'd rather retreat in most situations, but if his peers are still fighting he will stand beside them with determination.

## Abilities

### Way of the Sun Soul

Haylen's Monastic Tradition. It seems that Haylen has been training to become a Sun Soul Monk since he was young, as when his father Midger Scarlett showed up, he was almost immediately forced into sparring with an old family friend, Lucatiel Riverstone.

Haylen often uses his radiant magic in battle, especially against foes he can't touch. He sends out beams of light against enemies as long-range attacks, but also has been known to use the radiant abilities close-up.

Haylen has started training to use his radiant magic to heal his teammates.

### Snake Style/*shéquán*

Haylen's Martial Arts unarmed fighting style is generally known as Snake Style. He uses it the most often, as it is natural for him. It involves a wide stance with arms and hands pointed and positioned either side of his body as if looking like snakes. This style particularly aims for weak points of the human body, such as the eyes, throat, joints, and groin. Haylen has yet to make a groin shot, but has jabbed the throat of Artemis, hit Lucatiel's shoulder joints and popped the eye of Kohga (most acts disgusting or startling Haylen immediately).

### Weaponry

Haylen has a few weapons on his person that he rarely uses. He has a shortsword for close range combat and senbon for long range. Neither ever seem to cause much damage, but he does tend to use them if he thinks the situation calls for it.

## Hobbies

### Baking and Cooking

Haylen seems rather skilled in cooking and baking. His favorite thing to make and eat is cake, particularly strawberry shortcake. He is good at making just about anything though, as he's been seen to make much of the party's favorite foods.

### Beauty

Haylen spends a lot of time on his appearance, resulting in him building skills with nailpolish, makeup, style, and color. He has painted Tantris Calypso's nails, had his hair braided by Tantris, picked out an outfit with Elovi Ilrune-Tevrebris and had Elovi pick him a hair accessory.

#### Reading

When Haylen is not with his team, training, baking, cooking, or putting on makeup- he's reading a book alone in his room.

## Background

Haylen is the oldest son of Midger Scarlett. Haylen doesn't talk much about himself, but his father showing up with a family friend may have given some hints to how he grew up.

Haylen appeared terrified of seeing his father, muttering to Kimberley later on that if he'd known his father was coming he would have prepared himself, but it was too late, so it didn't matter. Haylen also seemed very fearful of the family friend, Lysander Riverstone, practically crumbling under his attention. Lucatiel Riverstone, Lysander's daughter, seemed to be friendly with Haylen. Haylen's attitude was generally awkward and fearful in the presence of all three people.

When his father and the Riverstones were around Haylen, Haylen would stand straight at attention with fists clutched at his sides in fear. He appeared to try very hard to respond to what was asked of him, his responses sounding like he was forcing himself to reply quickly and clearly. The whole situation seemed militant.

Despite Haylen's fears, Midger seemed like he was trying to make him feel better after Haylen ultimately lost his fight with Lucatiel. Haylen however was too ashamed of himself to notice.

## Campaign History

### Prologue: Guild Recruitment

Haylen made no effort to reach out to anyone when first arriving at the guild. He sat by himself quietly, but Estelmist Corali and Tantris sat near him to try to talk to him, and Atticus Caldwell called out to him, calling him "Blondie" and "Pinky", trying to get him to interact. Haylen mostly shut conversations down, almost appearing offended when Estel suggested that if he needed help, she'd be happy to assist, saying he'd be "fine on his own".

When the classmates are told to find someone to room with for the year, Tantris immediately picks Haylen, which Haylen is admittedly thankful for and accepts quickly as it means he doesn't need to seek anyone out by himself. Tantris and Haylen end up going with Elovi, Atticus, and Moe Hillcrusher as their roommates for the year.

The year goes by and Haylen mostly spends time cooking, training, or sitting alone in his room. He talks a bit with Elovi, finding solace with someone who has similar hobbies and similar worries about the world. She tells him about Astoria, and while he's aware not many people have a good opinion of Astoria, he ultimately doesn't know or understand the reasoning. He accepts Elovi's point of view on the situation and hopes he can be friends with her despite the difference of origins. He interacts very little with anyone else, though Tantris is another that he ends up liking the company of. While he has a good opinion of Atticus and Moe at this point, he has no real connection to either of them, other than knowing Moe likes to cook. Haylen is not aware of Atticus's undead nature at all yet.

#### Interview With Kimberley

During the year, there are interviews with each student to evaluate them based on their performances and interactions with other students, and Kimberley The Unbreakable is the Guild Master to interview Haylen. Kimberley comments on how interesting it is to see someone of the Scarlett family join the Guild, prompting Haylen to roll a Wisdom Save for unknown reasons. Kimberley ends up asking Haylen multiple times if this is the path he really wanted for himself, and Haylen dodges the question every time saying things like "If I can do this, I can do what I like later". Kimberley informs Haylen that he has a lot of potential, but is incredibly shy and that he recommends attempting to put himself out there and make friends. Haylen confides in Kimberley that, "The mask you wear, it's like everyone is wearing one to me." Kimberley takes off his helmet at that, telling him it's not so hard and it can be nice to make friendships. Kimberley is the first person Haylen ends up telling that he has a very hard time looking at people's faces.

#### Final Exam

Haylen is put on a team with Elovi, Tantris, Atticus, and Estel to go against one of the Guild Masters in their final exam. They are put against Freyja Hlin for a mock-mission. Their goal to capture the Guild Master’s flag and escape the arena with it. The group faces Freyja head on, with Estel getting knocked out early, Elovi, Tantris and Atticus acting as distractions while Haylen grabs the flag and dashes out of the battle grounds. The group passes the exam and becomes official Wyvernroost guildmembers. Haylen finished the year in general with a B average in intelligence and athletics.

#### Graduation Party

Haylen doesn't particularly like parties because of too many people, but likes to have an excuse to dress up, so he's happy to appear at the party if just for a little bit. He and Elovi bake strawberry shortcake for the event and he dresses up in a cute frilly pink outfit. He doesn't do much other than hover in the sidelines, but remembers that Kimberley told him to try to talk to people more, so when he goes to get some baked sweets he attempts to make conversation with someone also at the table. This happens to be a half-elf man named Sozel, who had come that way to try to escape the attention his team was getting. Haylen had seen that earlier, not particularly noting it at the time. Haylen tries to make conversation by recommending Sozel to try the strawberry shortcake as he was proud of what he made with Elovi, but Sozel tells him he's allergic to strawberries. This makes Haylen feel instantly foolish and terrible, and Haylen attempts to escape the situation immediately but Sozel ends up asking what else Haylen would recommend. Haylen tells him the chocolate cake is good, and Sozel thanks him.

### Mission I: Grave Botany

#### The Journey

Haylen and his team go to a town called Grimmgrass to investigate mysterious ghost sightings in a graveyard. They walk there, meeting a goblin named Clump along the way. Haylen doesn't interact much with them. Overnight one night Clump supposedly saved them from a bandit attack, but Haylen attempted to pretend to sleep when all the commotion was going on about the dead bodies. He likes to pretend it was a dream.

They meet a fortune teller while passing through a carnival, and Haylen asks them in a whisper whether he will make his family proud or not. They smile, telling him he's going to be amazing, which Haylen is relieved to hear, though a little skeptical about ever being amazing.

#### The Mission

Arriving in Grimmgrass the team goes to investigate the situation. They see a ghostly figure in the graveyard and follow clues to a mausoleum. Tantris and Haylen push one of the concrete caskets aside to find an underground dungeon. The group goes through the puzzles in the dungeon, one in particular slowing them down- a room where the ceiling is moving down, gas is filling the room, and there is an hourglass sitting on a pedestal in the center. They try many different things, Haylen eventually setting the hourglass on its side to stall for time.

Atticus figures the puzzle out and tries convincing everyone to let the ceiling come down on them. Haylen is unsure, and Atticus ends up pointing his crossbow at him, startling Haylen. Atticus tells him getting shot would be a much better death than being crushed, telling Haylen he could choose. Haylen simply puts his hands up in fear and can't make a decision, allowing the ceiling to come close enough to them that the puzzle is considered solved, and the ceiling returns to normal, the exit unlocking. Haylen is relieved, and while he was fearful of Atticus's recent actions, ultimately respects him because he was able to figure out the puzzle.

#### The Doll Room I

The party comes across a red door after following vines through the dungeon corridors. They decide to enter and find a room with lots of crayon scribblings, appearing very out of place. There is a small wooden doll in a tuxedo with bright sparkling white hair. It sits in front of a type writer, and after some time where Haylen and the others look at it in fascination, it starts to move and type, startling everyone. Haylen finds the doll adorable, and really loves it, but doesn't end up talking much to it himself. The others ask some important questions, which Haylen doesn't really understand the responses of. The party ends up naming the doll Snow, and Haylen is sad to leave it but glad he got to see it.

#### The Mission (Cont.)

Continuing down into the dungeon, the party comes across 2 mysterious people. Tantris casts fog cloud and Haylen attempts to hide within the cloud rather than run with everyone else. He's caught almost immediately, lifted into the air by a large man named Barask. The party learns Barask and his teammate Leonidas are from a terrorist organisation called Legion. Haylen doesn't understand much of what is said between them and the party, but ultimately fears the two greatly. The Legion members leave via portal, convincing the party that fighting them is a lost cause.

The group then leaves the dungeon and warns the police about what’s beneath the graveyard. Tantris runs back to fight the monster below, a fully grown Corpse Flower, and Atticus, Haylen and Elovi go after him. Estel stays behind. The team fights the Corpse Flower and Haylen manages to get a strong radiant blast in against it. The team beats it after Elovi destroys it with Magic Missile. The group is thanked by police and leave Grimmgrass after all the other Corpse Flower buds shrivel up and die.

### Interlude I

#### Team Ratings

Aegis interviews the group after their mission and asks them all to rate their teammates cooperation skills. Tantris and Estel are interviewed separately from Atticus, Elovi and Haylen. Haylen is too afraid to rate anyone too low. He rates Elovi 10, Atticus 10, Tantris 8.5, and Estel he was very unsure of. He bounces from 4 up to 5 and 6. When Haylen and the others exit Aegis's room, Haylen feels too ashamed to look anywhere near Estel, immediately feeling terrible about his rating.

Haylen and Tantris happen to walk together and come across Gundyr, who has a conversation mostly with Tantris. He does address Haylen though, and says he recalls Sozel has mentioned him before. This flusters Haylen and leads him to escape the conversation.

#### A Talk with Sozel

While the team is not on a mission, Haylen goes to train on the training grounds. He does terribly, and happens to see Sozel storm off away from his other teammate Vanril and into the woods. Haylen, still trying to remember Kimberley's advice of talking to people more, slowly and fearfully makes his way over to the bench Sozel is sitting on. Eventually Haylen makes himself known and sits next to Sozel, the two talking for a while. Haylen asks Sozel if anything is wrong due to his general demeanor, and Sozel tells him about how his team's recent mission was a failure because their group ran into two Legion members, one of which was Sozel’s brother. Sozel comments that he froze up and the team lost because of that, having to retreat just to survive. He also tells Haylen about the cursed swords that he and his brother have, and how there are more out there. He thanks Haylen for talking with him and attempting to comfort him, to which he then asks Haylen to teach him how to bake, like Haylen had for the graduation party. Haylen is overjoyed to be able to share his favorite hobby with more people, and excitedly agrees. They set a date to bake.

#### Haylen finds Tantris

After Haylen and Sozel part ways at the training grounds, Gundyr appears. He tells Haylen Tantris might need someone right now, and that he can be found at the beach. Haylen goes to find Tantris, who has a collection of things from the ocean when he gets to him. Tantris holds up a starfish and compares it to Haylen, saying it's pink like him. Haylen is amused but tells Tantris if he is ever upset and needs to talk to someone, that Haylen would like to be a person he could come to if he needed.

#### Baking with Sozel I

The next day, Haylen and Sozel bake, Sozel doing terribly and Haylen very worried about it. Haylen tries to act like he's not freaking out over the cake but is checking it every few seconds. At one point Sozel stops and draws his sword, asking if Haylen has anyone else in the dorm as he feels a strange presence. Haylen is confused and says no, having to count his teammates on his fingers because he can't think straight from worrying over the cake. Sozel puts his sword away, still very wary. He thanks Haylen for helping him bake, and hopes that his new teammate will like it and that he’d like to continue lessons in the future, which Haylen is still very happy to do.

### Mission II: Draconic Heist

The group takes an A rank mission specifically given to them by Aegis, the goal being to steal from the horde of the Dragon King. They head out, and during their travels they camp. Haylen, Tantris, and Elovi go off to find supplies in the same direction, Tantris taking Haylen's hand for the adventure, which Haylen doesn't mind.

This does however prompt Elovi to ask if they’re dating, to which they deny, Haylen being very surprised and embarrassed by the question, only managing to say "F-friends". While they're off to find the supplies for camp, Haylen sees a glint of metal in the distance. He points it out to his two companions and they go to check it out. It's a red sword stuck in a stone with runes around it. Haylen doesn't understand what it is or what it could mean, and opts to leave it alone. Tantris however removes it from the stone, finding he really doesn't want to let go of it. Elovi and Haylen freak out, Elovi deciding to go get Estel and Atticus to figure out the runes on the stone. The three return to figure out the sword and discuss the runes, the party discovering they tell of a curse. Haylen recounts Sozel stating that he also had a cursed sword of the same nature, leading Haylen to feel severely guilty for pointing the sword out in the first place, as he relays the information he knows about cursed swords to the party. As the party argues and tries to get Tantris to let the sword go, Haylen is crouched on the ground holding his knees, feelings absolutely awful.

#### The Town of Clearcoast

The party passes through a town called clearcoast. Clearcoast is a town that surrounds a lake with a nearby swamp attached. The townsfolk never stay out past 8 due to the magical glowing orbs that appear from the lake and disintegrate people, leaving nothing but their shadows behind. Their carriage driver Oxford becomes a victim of this on the first night as he wasn’t warned about the orbs and stayed out too late. The group attempts to solve this mystery to get Oxford back.

The group asks around town about the situation and gathers information. Haylen visits the potion shop run by Meadow. He asks Meadow if it's possible to drink a fire potion, as Haylen thought it may be cool to spit fire, but Meadow immediately shuts the question down saying it's a terrible idea and not to do it. Haylen is very embarrassed and leaves after buying a few healing potions.

The rest of the party have gathered information and Haylen mostly tags along with people. At some point Elovi buys Haylen a set of cooking utensils, which Haylen loves and is very thankful for, but feels bad he didn't but Elovi anything and gives her one of the healing potions he bought earlier.

Haylen and Tantris go to the beach and find Meadow there, and while Haylen is still embarrassed, they decide to go talk to them, Tantris mostly leading Haylen along. Meadow greets Haylen as "Fire Drinker", embarrassing him further. They ask some questions and Meadow tells them how they often make trips to a small island in the lake where a mysterious well resides.

At one point they all go to talk to a priest named Artemis, who Haylen suspects at first but after talking with him thinks he's good. Haylen tries to talk to Estel about how he thinks he should ask Meadow more questions about the situation, but Estel is in a magical trance and can't answer him. Haylen, with his unfortunate habit of not looking at people's faces when he talks to them, comes to the conclusion on his own that he should go interrogate Meadow. When Haylen finds Meadow and sees them from afar, he immediately remembers he's awful at talking to people and regrets his decision, but tries to follow through anyway. He stumbles through a conversation, trying to ask Meadow things about the mysterious orbs and altering dimensions, but Meadow ends up not knowing anything, answering in a way that embarrasses Haylen greatly and Haylen escapes the interaction as quickly as he can, apologizing and running away.

Eventually the party discovers Artemis has many documents in his house incriminating him to be the culprit of what they now know are called "Sun Shells". They discover the light orbs are radiant, and Haylen finds himself feeling quite useless against them, as he doesn't want to attack them with his radiant magic and risk aiding it.

They travel to the island in the lake and Atticus explores the mysterious well. After some more investigation over the days, Atticus readies himself to go down again and the party all start pulling him aside to say their own important words to him. Haylen offers a healing potion to Atticus, not fully understanding what being undead entails, but wanting to help. Atticus tells him he's a good kid and to keep the potion, and Haylen responds telling him he needs to be careful and to remember what he has to go home to. Atticus is taken aback by this but Haylen Nat 20'd on coming across as sincere as possible.

Atticus goes down again and this time the whole party ends up going down after Estel freaks out and jumps in the well. Haylen jumps after Estel and is followed by Tantris and Elovi. Haylen is surprised but tries not to focus on the strangeness of the other world they find themselves in, as their goal is to get Oxford and leave. Haylen doesn't notice anything about Atticus's new eye, though he's vaguely aware there's something different about Atticus, he doesn't look.

The group navigates the strange land and finds Oxford covered in strange black goo. He also has 2 large goo dire bears, and the group has to fight him as Oxford isn't in his right mind. Haylen fights a dire bear but ends up getting pinned. Eventually in the fight Haylen jabs the bear just right with radiant magic, and cracks form from where his hand hit. The monster bursts and Haylen is free, Tantris eventually figuring out he can use Gust of Wind to cure Oxford.

Saving Oxford, they get him out of the strange dimension and back through the magical well. They rush back to town to the church to confront Artemis. They find the priest below his church with an enormous, sun-like creature that they are then forced to fight. Haylen fights Artemis using Snake Style, jabbing him in the throat. The blood from Artemis's mouth startles Haylen as this was the first time he attacked someone with lethal force in such a vulnerable place. The party kill the priest first, and then in a last ditch effort to survive, the sun creature possesses the priest’s body. They kill this sun creature and the glowing orbs vanish from town. The group find the priest’s son Icarus after the battle and tell him his father left town and left him behind, like Icarus’ mom had. They comfort the boy.

The next day the team decides to take a day to relax in town before continuing the mission. Haylen goes out for a walk, happens to pass by Atticus on his walk and gets very excited. He waves to Atticus with a bounce in his step, knowing exactly what he wanted to do that day. He goes shopping for ingredients and uses the kitchen of the inn they're staying at to make some beignets for Atticus, as he remembers seeing Atticus really enjoy them in the past. Haylen makes a whole batch through the day and goes up to the room he, Tantris and Atticus share. He gets Atticus's attention and alerts him to the treats he just made. At Atticus's delight, Haylen specifies he made them particularly for Atticus, because he noticed Atticus was always looking after others and taking care of others, but never taking a break for himself. He told Atticus that he needs to rest and let himself relax. Atticus then asks if Haylen prefers handshakes or hugs. Due to Haylen's generally shy nature he timidly answers he usually doesn't get hugs but he can do one if he wanted. Atticus retracted, saying he didn't want to force Haylen, but before Atticus could finish his sentence Haylen hugged him. After the hug they had a moment as Atticus told Haylen he was a really good kid, moving to pat his head. This triggers Haylen to start crying, causing Atticus to flinch back and apologize. Haylen reassured him it wasn't anything he did, it was just that it was really nice to hear praise like that. The two then hear Estel attempt to communicate through stones of far speech, unfortunately only Atticus could understand the language coming through at the time. Atticus sighs, telling Haylen he'll have to take that break later. Haylen, feeling a rare moment of courage, bristles up and wags his finger at him as if like a parent, and manages to squeak out, *"Y-you better...!"*

#### The Fey Oasis

When Estel was calling through the stone of far speech, it was to get the party to go to the Fey Oasis. The group goes to follow the directions translated by Atticus, but don't end up seeing anything. Haylen looks around and finds a flower petal, which he picks up. He hears something soon after, and while he can't see anything of note ahead, walks forward. This causes him to disappear from his view, appearing in the Fey Oasis. Looking around, he's quite surprised by the beauty of his sudden change in surroundings. As he's looking he's bumped forward onto the ground. Atticus had dashed forward after Haylen disappeared, bumping into him as Haylen hadn't moved from where he appeared in the Fey Oasis. Atticus helps Haylen up, apologizing, telling Haylen that he scared him half to death.

The group ends up talking to Estel who had invited them all over so they could get some healing and relaxing done. The Fey Oasis is linked to Estel's newish Patron, Zari, who Haylen was very impressed by but ultimately barely comprehended. Everyone relaxes, Haylen getting in the healing waters with Atticus. He wasn't sure what to make of the whole place, but the water was nice- and Atticus showed Haylen how it was healing his scars. Haylen ends up following some scars up to his face, which Haylen is surprised to see a rather large scar above Atticus's mutated left eye. He points it out, saying he didn't notice it, which baffles Atticus. Haylen then quietly explains how he has trouble looking people in the face, marking Atticus the second person he's told this personal information to. Atticus remarks how *"Now I know why you're so nice to me"*. Which Haylen doesn't fully understand but feels it is probably not a nice thing.

When the group returns to Clearcoast, they tell Icarus that his father is dead. Haylen had given Icarus a pastry to make him feel better before they told him, and when Icarus starts crying, Haylen cries. Elovi silently puts her hand on his shoulder, which he appreciates. Estel eventually runs to make the decision to take Icarus with them back to the guild, which Haylen doesn't particularly protest as he doesn't want to cause any conflict. However he has nothing of true substance to offer the boy, so he doesn't seek to interact too much with him other than giving him food.

#### The City of Dryspring

The group heads to a city called Dryspring, located at the base of the mountain that they need to climb to get to the Dragon Kong’s castle. The town climate is very hot, which affects some of the party, but Haylen seems rather unaffected. He is however affected by the bad smells coming from the two who were doing the worst, Atticus and Tantris. Unfortunately Haylen had to room with them at the inn, where he sprayed lots of perfume in order to survive.

That night Haylen had Tantris braid his hair and he did Tantris's nails. Estel came to the door to alert them that Atticus was passed out at the inn's bar and needed assistance up to their room. Reluctantly (As Haylen just did Tantris's nails) they go to help. Haylen carries Atticus and brings him up to bed, tucking him in tightly.

The next day the group finds out Kobolds have been attacking Dryspring. In helping a civilian, the party fights a group of Kobolds. They follow them to the opening of a cave, where Elovi has an urge to brutally burn the Kobolds. She snaps out of it with the help of the group and explains she had a strange mark appear on her hand after buying and reading a fire sorcery book. Estel particularly was very upset with Elovi, and Haylen went to comfort Elovi by holding her hand and telling her it was okay for her to tell him things, and that they were friends. The situation dies down and they enter the cave.

The cave has strange affects on their minds, Haylen particularly falling prey to it. He drinks what he thinks is sparkling water from the cave but ends up being acid, then sees an illusion of Estel being dragged away and fixates on following it. Tantris catches up with him and the two fight a large gorrilla creature as the rest of the party catches up. Eventually they beat the foe and Haylen attempts to say some encouraging words to the group, unintentionally healing everyone a bit, even Atticus.

They head into a different tunnel and find a group of dead bodies seemingly killed by a sword wielder. Haylen looks away almost immediately. Atticus uses a spell to temporarily raise the dead, which Haylen is a bit uncomfortable by and tries to pretend it isn't happening by turning most of his body away. They ask one of the bodies what happened and are told that someone with a similar sword to Tantris was the culprit, causing Haylen's eyes to widen and for him to become paranoid it may be connected to Sozel. The group then heads further into the cave.

#### The Doll Room II

They find the red door again, heading inside to find the same doll as before, only now covered in priest’s robes instead of a tuxedo. It asks Haylen how his family is doing, causing him to freeze. It says more mysterious things Haylen couldn't focus on. They talk to it for a bit longer, and upon finding out more about it’s true identity it begins to grow inch by inch. They leave quickly after. Due to Haylen's paranoia from the dead person telling them someone with a cursed sword killed them, Haylen did not have as much capacity to be interested in the doll, not to mention the doll was much more unsettling this time around.

#### The Caves

Once out of the doll room, they discuss the situation. Haylen sees a figure in the fog in the distance, feeling absolutely positive the figure is Sozel. He tries to communicate his thoughts to the party, but he stumbles over his words, and Estel telling him to speak clearly just makes him clam up. When the rest of the group sees the figure, they all think they see different people and chase after it. Haylen is 100% positive he saw Sozel, and when they're finally at a dead end, there's a confrontation. Haylen, Tantris, and Elovi have followed the figure into a large room with a dead dragon. Elovi and Tantris confuse Haylen in the interaction because they talk to who he thinks is Sozel in strange ways. Elovi talks to the figure about things Haylen doesn't understand, and Tantris treats them as a friend. The person he thinks is Sozel asks who he thinks he is, and Haylen manages to say *"Sozel, if you hurt those people, I can't be your friend anymore."*

The mention of Sozel's name sends the figure into a quick rage as it lunges and pins Haylen to the ground, snapping Haylen out of it and he realizes who he's seeing isn't Sozel, and is likely his brother Kohga, a member of Legion. This relieves Haylen, even with the large figure towering over him with his boot to his chest and sword pointed at him. Kohga says never to say Sozel's name in his presence, as Sozel was a traitor. Haylen asked why he'd call Sozel that, and is explained Sozel betrayed his people for Wyvernroost. Haylen says he's glad to know Sozel is considered a traitor to him, because Kohga hurts people, and if Sozel is against them, he's better than that.

The fight continues, Haylen managing to escape from being pinned and hits the man in the eye, causing it to burst. This disgusts Haylen, but luckily the eye heals right back into place so he doesn't have to see it. Haylen still hated it though, and thought to himself he'll never do that again. Kohga eventually leaves the three saying how it's unnecessary to kill them and they let him go. The three eventually meet back up with Estel and Atticus, who are in just as bad of shape as they are, and they all escape the cave together. Haylen sees Estel is upset about something but has no idea on what, and is too distracted by his own aches to pay too much attention. They escape the caves.

#### The Long Rest

When the group comes across a curious sky ship with a few crew around, some become highly paranoid. Tantris goes right up to them to greet them, and Haylen follows just in case, followed by Elovi. Atticus and Estel are too paranoid and stay behind. Tantris ends up running back to those two after he sees someone particular on the ship and hides. Elovi apologizes for him and Haylen is asked for his name but walks away because he's too afraid to talk to them. Eventually the group decides to trust the people on the ship and they go aboard to relax after their terrible time with Legion. Haylen has a nice time cooking in the galley with Elovi and the ship's cook Nofhug. Haylen makes food he things Estel will like because he noticed she wasn't acting like she usually does, or, worse than usual. He makes salty foods and particularly makes baked potatoes. When the food is ready he prepares a plate especially for her and offers it to her, telling her how he saw she wasn't doing well and that good food should help. Her response was generally accepting, which Haylen was content with. Not long after Haylen notices pretty quickly that Tantris has cut his hair on the ship. Haylen's immediately distressed, reaching out pet his hand through it, asking what he did to it and that he loved his hair.

The group spend the night on the ship, Haylen not noticing much of anything being wrong. He thinks he woke up in the middle of the night to Elovi and Atticus talking, but isn't sure as he fell asleep again right after. When they got up to leave, Haylen and Elovi hugged Nofhug and thanked him for their fun time cooking together. Leaving the ship, Haylen willingly looks to Elovi's face in joy at how everything had gone, finally making a solid connection with eye contact. It didn't last too long, but it was a lot for Haylen, and his eyes weren't flickering everywhere in the action. He felt safe to look, as Elovi had become one of his most precious people.

#### The Dragon's Keep

The group heads to the Dragonspire castle after saying their goodbyes to the crew of The Long Rest, they trick to dragon knights with an illusion, head inside, steal 30,000 gold, and run away considering their mission complete. Heading back through the Dragonspire mountains and down the previous cave system to the town of Dryspring, the group meets back up with Oxford and Icarus and head back to the Guild over the course of two weeks. They stop briefly in Clearcoast to acquire clothes for Icarus.

### Interlude II: Political Intrigue

#### Family Feud

The day after the party returns to the guild, Haylen goes to mail letters to his family. One for his father, one for his mama and one for his younger sister Ferra. As he's about to mail them, he sees the Riverstone family, a family he grew up with, from afar. He freezes, hoping he wasn't seen, and notices his father is there too. He awkwardly mails the letters he was sending even though his father Midger is right there across the way. Haylen tries to sneak out of view of the Riverstone family and Midger, but Lucatiel Riverstone manages to spot Haylen and basically tackle him into a hug. Putting him down, she assesses his attire and asks what he's wearing and who he's trying to impress in a flirtatious manner. Haylen tries to minimize his appearance in the situation and tries escaping so he could change into something more presentable for his father, but the rest of the group makes their way over to him and he's trapped. Lysander Riverstone, Lucatiel's father, pats Haylen so hard he falls to the ground. Haylen appears terrified at the prospect of speaking to Lysander and Midger, trying to listen and do as they say, though hesitant when Lysander suggests Haylen and Lucatiel spar. Midger also suggests it would be a good idea, and Haylen relents, pushed over to the training grounds where there's a sparring ring.

Tantris and Elovi manage to see Haylen being dragged into the ring, Tantris suggesting they spar too. Lysander thinks it's a great idea and pushes Elovi, Tantris and Luther into the ring to spar against each other. Haylen is mostly quiet and fearful, but once the sparring starts and Lucatiel goes straight for Elovi with her stronger moves, Haylen feels very protective of his teammate and protests, saying how Elovi can't take those kinds of hits, suggesting Haylen knows Lucatiel's fighting style very well. Haylen had barely been putting up a fight before, but after Lucatiel hits that nerve, Haylen tries very hard to beat her. Unfortunately, he's blasted out of the ring by one of her hits, and Tantris also goes down soon after, marking Lucatiel the winner.

Luther goes to wake Haylen up, to which Haylen's torso shoots up in a sitting position and his arms in Snake Style stance. Seeing Luther standing over him, he timidly asks if it's over, with Luther confirming and helping Haylen up. Haylen sees his father from afar, and nervously looks down, dejected and ashamed of his defeat. Midger goes up to him and puts a hand on his shoulder to try to comfort him, saying he did well and got much further against Lucatiel than usual. Haylen can't bring himself to look up at Midger or respond in any way.

#### Haylen's Nightmare

After Haylen's day of disaster, he spends the rest of the day furiously baking to comfort himself. He stays up a little later than usual doing so and heads to bed around 11pm.

In his nightmare, Haylen wakes from his sleep to feel very nauseous. He heads to the bathroom to hurl and ends up vomiting black oil continuously. Haylen doesn't know what to do at all as it's painful and terrible and just continues to hurl, even as the room fills with the oil. He then finds the room to begin falling away and revealing himself to be on a platform high in the sky with three imposing figures staring down at him from above. Before long, an enormous being rises from the inky depths below, staring down at Haylen with piercing eyes before crushing him to death and letting his body drop into the inky sea below. Haylen reawakens with a startle, finding a Legion Member sitting at the foot of his bed staring at him, unable to discern this beings details as they appear to be constantly shifting. This person disappears. Haylen informs no one and eats cake, falling back asleep at the dining table. He assumes it was entirely a dream. The morning after his nightmare, Haylen is awoken with a start to Elovi's room being on fire. He gets a piece of cake for Elovi to help her, as he was too tired that morning from his restless night to help any other way.

#### Haylen Gets Invited

Haylen readies himself as usual that morning. He considers wearing what his father would have known him to wear back home, but decides against it and goes for his normal attire. He's eventually alone in the dorm when a knock comes at the door. He looks around, as usually Atticus or someone will get the door so he doesn't have to, but as he's alone he has to get it.

He opens the door to see it's Gundyr. Haylen assumes he's there to see Tantris, as he's only known Gundyr to talk to him, and tells him that Tantris isn't there as he's off training with a Guild Master. Gundyr assures him he's there to see Haylen, and asks Haylen to walk with him, which Haylen worriedly accepts.

The two have casual talk until they get to Gundyr's team dorm. Haylen is told he can sit on the couch and Gundyr gets them both a drink of *Probably Lemonade.* Gundyr asks Haylen about himself and he falters a bit, wondering what there even is about him that would be interesting to mention. He says he likes baking, which catches Gundyr's attention for some reason. Haylen notes he'd been teaching Gundyr's teammate Sozel how to bake for a bit, and that it was fun and he could join them next time if he liked. Gundyr seems pleased with the offer and mentions he thinks Sozel would appreciate it, and that he and Sozel are very close. Haylen is happy to hear it, though most of what Gundyr has been saying has been a lie, innuendo, or manipulation- Haylen can't tell the difference, and views Gundyr as genuine. Gundyr once again tells Haylen that Sozel mentioned him, flustering Haylen as usual. Gundyr specified Sozel would ask where he were and if he had gotten back yet. Haylen seemed pleased to hear it, if shy. Gundyr then asks Haylen about his relationship with Sozel, Haylen saying he didn't know what Sozel thought, but he considered them friends. Gundyr pushed and asked if Haylen would want to be something more, causing Haylen to blush bright red and respond that *"being better friends would be great".*

Gundyr suddenly left the room, telling Haylen he'd be back in a moment, and as Gundyr walked into his personal dorm room, Sozel walked through the team dorm's front door, announcing himself but halting in realizing Haylen was sitting on the couch. Haylen and Sozel end up talking for a while about the mission Haylen just got back from, Haylen unloading some of his stresses onto Sozel. He also mentions how they encountered legion again and ended up meeting Sozel's brother Kohga, which Sozel reacted with a surprised cough, asking if Haylen was alright. Haylen downplayed the danger of the situation in an attempt to make Sozel feel better however he did mention he had passed out at one point, but they survived and Kohga left. Haylen also brought up how Tantris came across a cursed sword, and how Haylen felt like it was his fault for Tantris being cursed now. Sozel tries to reassure Haylen it wasn't his fault. Eventually the important conversations die down and Sozel asks Haylen if he'd be free to help him bake again, as his teammates didn't like his last cake. Haylen agrees, telling Sozel that Gundyr would also like to join, to which Sozel frantically asks Haylen what Gundyr has said to him. Haylen thinks of the embarrassing things Gundyr said such as *"He's mentioned you a couple times recently", "Do you want to be something more?",* and *"You're as red as a strawberry right now, buddy"*. Haylen ends up just saying that Gundyr had asked about baking. Sozel rushes Haylen out of the dorm, all the while telling him Gundyr already knows how to cook and bake very well, and that he's just messing with Haylen, which Haylen doesn't believe because *"he's been nice".* The two then decide to bake together the next day and say goodbye. As Haylen leaves down the hall, he hears Sozel and Gundyr shouting at each other, and feels as if he did something wrong to instigate such a scene.

#### Baking with Sozel II

Sozel arrives at Haylen's team dorm at around noon and the two bake for a while. For this occasion, Haylen is in something cute and frilly, and Sozel is in something casual. Sozel asks Haylen if it's just them at the dorm, which Haylen answers that Elovi is in her room (hungover), Tantris is off training, and he's not sure where Atticus, Estel and Icarus are. Sozel nods, remembering that Haylen's guilded team had been away when the Guild Master training was going on. This prompts Haylen to ask who Sozel trained with, Sozel saying Freyja, as they have similar fighting styles.

Haylen and Sozel start baking. Sozel pays extra attention to Haylen's instructions this time and the two manage to make a great 2 tiered chocolate cake, with frosting flowers and piping around the sides. Haylen assures Sozel it was easy and he knew he could do it, causing Sozel to flush and look away. Sozel says he must not have been trying last time, and that he'd been distracted. Haylen thinks immediately that he means he was distracted by the strange presence he sensed in the dorm, which Sozel stumbles into agreement. Haylen asks if he feels anything now, which Sozel doesn't, and asks why. Haylen tells Sozel about his nightmare and how he thought he saw a Legion member standing over his bed. This causes Sozel to summon his sword and check the dorm more closely. He doesn't end up sensing anything, but asks Haylen to hand over his stone of far speech. He etches in a rune on Haylen's stone and hands it back, making it so Haylen can contact him in the future for any reason. After Haylen thanks him, Sozel flusters and turns away, mentioning Haylen should probably call the Guild Masters first, but since he was just across the hall he figured it would be good to call him. Haylen tells him he'll just call both the Guild Masters and Sozel, which Sozel is in agreement with. As Sozel leaves, he then asks Haylen if he knows how to cook anything else, because he'd like to learn how to cook as well, as it relaxed him. Haylen agrees, once again overjoyed to help and share his hobbies. Kimberley then comes to the door to tell Haylen to attend his training session with him. Haylen notes he and Sozel are probably done, and Kim leaves. As Sozel leaves he thanks Haylen again for his time, Haylen telling him he's glad he's taken interest in cooking. Sozel smiles and tells Haylen he's a good teacher, making Haylen smile at the ground in happiness, very glad to hear praise.

#### Guild Master Training

Haylen is summoned to train with Kimberley. They travel to a beautiful red, pink, and golden meadow where they sit and meditate. Kimberley talks to Haylen about how he's been feeling about the guild and the direction he's been going. Haylen laments his situation a bit, and Kimberley tells him about how some Sun Soul Monks go more of a healing route with their approach, which gives Haylen some hope, but he wouldn't know how to start. He's told a new Guild Master will be coming, and while she's not a Sun Soul Monk, she does know how to use monk skills for healing, and that Haylen should get a chance to confer with her. Kimberley then has Haylen work on being able to look someone in the face, and it takes Haylen the rest of the day but he's able to look at Kimberley, where he finds a warm beautiful soul.

#### Spa Day

Haylen, Estel and Elovi go shopping in town for clothes. Haylen picks out an outfit for Elovi and stealthily confiscates her alcohol, as Haylen can clearly see her drinking is affecting her attitude. Elovi picks out a strawberry hairclip for Haylen, which he's very happy about. They meet up with Estel, showing their findings and asking about hers, Haylen himself feeling as if he's had a great time with his friends. The shopkeep of the arcane store scares Haylen away and he follows Estel and Elovi to the Soul Gem shop, which he still hasn't used. He has some Soul Gems, but thinks they're pretty and doesn't want to give them up. Elovi ends up feeling confronted at the shop, which Haylen notices as she raises her voice, clearly upset by something. Haylen grabs her hand and tugs her away, saying they should all get lunch.

Later they're all called to gather and get ready to go to Sea Dragon's Cauldron for a day of mandatory relaxation. Haylen spends time in the hot springs with Tantris and Atticus, Atticus floating as if he's truly dead, worrying Haylen. Atticus confesses he's on drugs and asks Haylen and Tantris if they think he's human or undead. Haylen, who had barely understood Atticus's state of being for the longest time, told him *"You've always been a person."* Atticus wasn't completely satisfied with his answer and told Haylen to look him in the face and say it. Haylen having practiced with Kimberley before, manages to look at Atticus's face and tell him again he'll always be a person. Atticus, being on drugs, sinks back into the water. Tantris soon after gets the idea he wants to see Gundyr's face, and attempts to cast Gust of Wind on him, which Gundyr casts suggestion back telling him he shouldn't. Later Tantris successfully casts Gust of Wind but Gundyr casts Disguise Self, stunning Tantris. Haylen tries to tell Tantris he really shouldn't do something like that and it could hurt someone's feelings, shooting Sozel an exasperated look about the situation which Sozel reciprocates.

Later Haylen eats at an empty table in the dining hall at the buffet, taking half a plate of fruit and half of cake, mostly consisting of strawberries. Haylen appreciates the beautiful view and gets startled by Sozel, who asks to sit with him. Sozel apologizes for Gundyr's behavior earlier to a flabbergasted Haylen. Haylen says Haylen has nothing to apologize for, and if anything he should apologize for Tantris's behavior as he thought it wasn't nice to try to see Gundyr's face without his permission. Sozel says Gundyr's hiding his face for a silly reason and Haylen responds saying some people like having that one power over others, their face. They don't talk about much after that except having a relaxing time at the spa, though Sozel does ask if Gundyr has bothered Haylen again, which he says he has never bothered him. Haylen then realizes he has strawberries on his plate and worries for Sozel's allergy, pushing the plate away from him. This prompts Sozel to scoot a bit away from Haylen just in case, explaining he only reacts if he eats them, and Haylen saying how he was worried because some allergies can be really bad. Haylen and Sozel continue on to eat dinner together.

Later on, Haylen goes to a sauna with his teammates. Haylen isn't sure of what to talk about other than hoping people were having a relaxing time, as he didn't want to bring up anything stressful. The group relaxed together and went back to the guild after.

### Mission to the Palaemon Sea

#### Leaving the Guild

On the day the team gets given a new mission by Aegis, Haylen and the others learn Tantris is missing. He went into the sea for an unknown reason. Haylen was very saddened by this and feels he should have tried talking to him more, and maybe he would have asked the team for help with whatever he'd been bothered by.

Before leaving Wyvernroost, Haylen goes to Sozel's dorm to say goodbye. He meets Sozel's new teammate Silwest and thinks she's nice. In talking to Sozel, Haylen thanked him for hanging out so often. He told Sozel about how a teammate of his left, and if he'd only tried harder to befriend him, maybe he wouldn't have. Through that line of thought, he thanks Sozel for trying to be his friend. He tells him how his whole team has difficult issues that he has no idea how to help them on. Sozel tells Haylen he's a really good friend, and how he also feels he has trouble making connections with his teammates, and tells him staying at the guild has been made a little easier by the two of them hanging out. He says he appreciates Haylen for his kindness, and Haylen manages to look him in the face with a smile and responds telling him he considers Sozel one of his close friends too. Sozel flusters and tells him to stay safe on his mission.

#### Meeting The Boss

On the way to Crow's Peak, the party ends up having a conversation about all the different things Haylen's been missing out on. A woman called 'The Boss' appears and explains things under the spell Zone of Truth. Kimberley and Oxford were also in on it, and it seemed most of his teammates knew the basics of what was going on. Haylen however was very confused and had no idea what was happening. He ended up becoming so stressed he started eating some of his rations in anxiety. During the meeting, he managed to say he had no idea what was going on, but thought it may be good to mention he thought he saw a suspicious Legion member in his bedroom after having an intense nightmare. It turned out Atticus knew what Haylen was talking about and they both brought up not being able to see the face of the Legion member, as it was very glitchy. This was the extent Haylen could participate in the conversation, though he did look to Kimberley for explanation as he trusted him the most of the three now-suspicious people, Oxford, The Boss, and Kimberley. Kimberley looked at him in apology and sympathy, telling him it would be okay. After this extreme conversation, Haylen's brain was fried so he went to bed quickly.

The next few days of their trip was spent with Elovi and Atticus explaining everything to Haylen. Haylen still doesn't know what to think about most of it, but hopes it will all turn out okay.

### Crow's Peak

When arriving to Crow's Peak, the party goes to get their tickets at the train station. While there, Haylen gets pick-pocketed by Lemmy, which devastates Haylen for a few minutes. He views his coinpurse as very precious, even without money in it. He hadn't noticed it was stolen at all, though, it was Estel who saved his purse, which he greatly appreciates.

After obtaining their tickets, Haylen, Elovi and Percy explore the town for the short time they have there. He tags along with them as Percy mails a letter, and later Haylen manages to spot a bakery called Macawberry Shortcake. The three of them head there, and Haylen tells them his mother has a bakery that specializes in pastries. Haylen also asks Percy about the person at the post office who called him noble, wondering the significance of it. Percy explains his situation as a Paladin to be considered noble and that it wasn't anything special, which Haylen responds he's sure Percy deserved the respect. When Elovi returns with an order she got for Percy, she asks about Aldeberan and the conflict with Astoria and how things were. Haylen nods along with the conversation, as he sort of learned about the conflicts but is still confused. Percy later mentions that his younger sister would enjoy the strawberry shortcake they ordered. Haylen responds that his little sister would not, to which Elovi tells him his sister has terrible taste. Haylen completely misses the joke and worriedly tells Elovi that his sister is actually very good, causing Haylen and Elovi to both go back and forth apologizing for their blunders.

#### Meeting with Soe

Haylen chooses to room with Elovi at the start of their time on the train. The two have a conversation about what they should bake together next, and Haylen gets out a book to read after. He slowly trails along with the group as they all go out to explore. Ultimately they make their way to the bar car. After Haylen finally arrives and looks up from his book, he sees his uncle at the bar. Haylen is stunned and it takes a moment for him to react. After a bit, he manages to speed walk forward, closing his book to his chest, hiding its cover. He gets to his uncle and exclaims his name "Uncle Soe", prompting his uncle to close and cover his own book. Soe Scarlett quickly turns around with a big smile and scoops Haylen up into a hug, the two having a precious reunion. Haylen asks Soe what he's doing here and he says he's going to Rosewater to meet with Haylen's grandparents, Setra and Jin. He tells Haylen they just came from across the sea in Las Loralei and they're meeting back up in Rosewater. He mentions to Haylen he'll be going back to Wyvernroost for business afterward. He also tells Haylen an interesting fact that Tiarous has one of the largest openings into the Underdark, and that he went in for a short time.

Haylen and Soe continue to have general conversation, catching up. Haylen tells Soe a little about how he hasn't had much time to do training unless he's at the guild because their missions are so long. He tells him how he had a rematch with Lucatiel and lost, but had done better, though he mostly attributes this to his teammates helping him. Soe tells Haylen he always told Midger that Haylen wasn't the fighting type but that Midger never really listened. Haylen is a little sad about hearing it, as he thinks Soe has told him he isn't what his father wants him to be- but he appreciates Soe could see his discomfort in being a monk. Haylen tells Soe he made a deal with his father that if he could improve himself at the guild, he could do what he wanted afterward. Soe tells him there are other monastic traditions he can follow, Haylen agreeing and they discuss Haylen going to talk to Eleanor eventually. He tells Haylen Eleanor and Majesty had been out looking for a particular book, but he didn't know anything about it.

Haylen eventually listens to Soe telling him stories of his father. Soe tells him Midger was rebellious at his age, prompting Haylen to question him. He tells him interesting stories he finds funny about their youth even though in telling them according to him "Midger will kill him". Haylen has a few drinks as he hangs out with Soe, the first ones he's had in game. When they part, Soe hugs Haylen and gives him a kiss on the forehead.

#### Bullet Train Night I

Haylen, sufficiently drunk, doesn't really know what's going on as usual as the party discusses important things going on. They talk about how Atticus and Percy fought an ooze in the bathroom and more details on that. Haylen mostly uses this time to shout interruptions. He exclaims how the situation makes him so sad, and how his wallet being stolen earlier was his favorite. He also shouts about how he thought the thief was really pretty.

Haylen loudly volunteers himself to go talk to train officials about the situation, quickly being shot down by Atticus who puts his coat over Haylen's shoulders, calling him 'honey' and telling him he should rest. Haylen sounds very disappointed in response. Haylen soon worriedly realizes his uncle is on the train and they need to go tell him to be careful. Atticus asks if Soe is a 'chatty Cathy' which Haylen doesn't really understand and says he isn't. Atticus tells Haylen just to tell him to be on guard and not to tell details of the situation. Haylen, being drunk, generally bumbles through the instructions, and Atticus tells him he's proud but wishes he weren't drunk right now. Estel tells him to drink water, Elovi volunteers to accompany Haylen, and Haylen tells Percy he's pretty, which Percy blushes in response to.

Haylen and Elovi go to inform Soe to be careful, and when they arrive, Soe quickly hides his book he was reading. Haylen loudly introduces Elovi as she's trying to inform him of the seriousness of the situation. He widely gestures to Elovi and tells Soe that Elovi is his best friend. He continues on to tell Soe all that he could understand of the ooze situation, loudly telling him there's 'a monster that ate bones', which Elovi interrupts and tries to play the situation down as was originally instructed by Atticus. In ending her warnings, Haylen explains more on how much he likes Elovi, saying 'isn't she so cool and nice? She's my best friend. She's so smart.' Soe gives Haylen another kiss on the forehead and tells him to rest, also pulling Elovi aside to ask her to take care of him, which she agrees to. Elovi tells him good luck on his research, which Soe is confused on.

Regrouping with the team, Haylen falls asleep as they're trying to figure out their next moves. Elovi wakes him up after some prodding, which is difficult as Haylen's a heavy sleeper anyway. She asks him if he's an ooze, and he responds in confusion. He says he *could* be an ooze on the inside, but he doesn't know. The group denies this, Atticus shouting 'Haylen's made of human flesh!'. Haylen falls back asleep after his confusing conversation. He sleeps through the password systems the group figures out. Later after Atticus runs off and Elovi and Percy go out as well, Estel attempts to wake Haylen to follow the group. He pouts but gets up anyway.

Soon after exiting their room, they're engulfed by a red ooze.

## Relationships

### The Party

#### Elovi Ilrune-Tevrebris

Haylen's first impression of Elovi was that she was nice and easy to have a pleasant conversation with. Her Astorian background didn't mean much to him, as he doesn't know much about politics. He just knew she was nice and had some similar worries to him in the beginning.

Over time Haylen has become closer to Elovi due to their shared love of baking. He really enjoys his time baking with Elovi, as he liked to have company baking when he was home as well. Elovi's personality was really easy for Haylen to get used to and while he's still quiet, he is happy with the time he gets to spend with Elovi.

As Elovi has been under the control of the Fire Witch and as she's learned the flaws of Astoria, Haylen has been in the dark but has seen Elovi hasn't been feeling well. He wants badly to help and offers food and shopping trips to try to cheer her up. He has told her in the past that she can talk to him if she needs to, and he awaits her to open up when she feels she's ready.

#### Tantris Calypso

Haylen's first impression of Tantris was of slight worry. He was energetic and had worrisome tendencies, but ultimately the fish man won him over with his spirit. Haylen, while still shy, appreciated Tantris's simple optimism as he could see his point of view and relate to it. He enjoyed teaching him how to do some cooking in the early days of them rooming together.

Over time with Tantris's tendencies to not understand personal space, Haylen has become close with him. Haylen allows Tantris to drag him around anywhere and enjoys his company as it makes him smile. Haylen's still worried about Tantris deep down, as once he told Tantris if he ever needed to talk, he hoped he would be the one Tantris went to.

Haylen feels like he didn't try hard enough to be Tantris's friend and worries they won't meet again.

#### Atticus Caldwell

Haylen's first impression of Atticus was very good. He heard a rumor that Atticus had a boyfriend and child, and he was very happy to hear of it. Since it takes him a while to look at people, Haylen had no idea Atticus was undead, and hadn't heard anything about it for a while. When he did finally hear about it, he didn't fully understand whether it was true or not. He wasn't sure as he'd never known an undead person before, or if he had, he didn't know it.

Over time Haylen really began to respect Atticus for his intelligence, glad to be on the same team with him. He noticed Atticus starting to wear down however, and made a treat especially for him to tell him to get some rest. He hasn't forgotten Atticus's promise to relax, and he keeps an eye on his body language to see how he's doing. He also now knows Atticus is insecure about his appearance, and will absolutely keep that in mind, hoping one day Atticus will rest and maybe talk seriously about his feelings.

#### Estelmist Corali

Haylen's first impression of Estel was that she was nice but pushy, offering her help in schooling at the beginning of the year at Wyvernroost. He didn't know much past that for a long time, and when they became teammates his opinion stayed pretty similar, except less he thought she was pushy but more he thought she was invasive and aloof.

Over time on missions getting to know her, he's learned Estel is actually quite nice and cares about her teammates, which he appreciates. Her jumping in the well to help Atticus with no hesitation really touched him, and he hasn't forgotten. She also cares so deeply for Icarus, and Haylen can see clearly she's a nurturing soul under her defenses. He hopes he can become someone she can call a friend, as he considers her one.

#### Percival Solanes

Haylen gave Percy a piece of cake as a welcome gift. He thinks he's very nice and friendly, and must be someone very good for the public to like him so much. He hopes to talk more and become friends, now knowing they have something in common- having a younger sister.

### Family

#### Soe Scarlett

Haylen seemed very excited to see his uncle, freely letting himself be scooped up in a hug. He enjoyed spending time and catching up with him on the Bullet Train. He had his first drinks with him as Soe told Haylen stories about his father.

#### Midger Scarlett

Haylen appears terrified of disappointing him. The stories Soe has told him make him wonder if he should try being honest with him.

#### Kenta Scarlett

Haylen clearly writes his longest letters to his mother.

### Riverstone Family

#### Lysander Riverstone

Haylen seems terrified of this man in general.

#### Luna Riverstone

She's a serious woman and he wouldn't want to get on her bad side.

#### Luther Riverstone

Haylen has a bond with this man of not wanting to be a monk.

#### Lucatiel Riverstone

Haylen has a friendship rivalry with this childhood friend.

### Wyvernroost Guild

#### Aegis of the Shifting Sands

Haylen is fearful of disappointing this man when reporting to him, but thinks he's a good man and a hard worker.

#### Kimberley ‘The Unbreakable’ Thornbrush

Haylen used to fear Kimberley a bit, but as he's spent more time with him has realized how kind and good he is.

#### Freyja Hlin

Haylen has always thought Freyja let him get past her defenses and let him win, and fears one day she'll realize her mistake.

#### Victor M. Edelweiss

Haylen has always feared this Guild Master. His first introduction made him both fear and dislike the man, as he had loudly burst into their classroom and told everyone they didn't stand a chance. He thinks Victor would hate him for his weak nature if they properly spoke at all.

#### Oxford Deadcrow

Haylen doesn't know much about him but appreciates his love for his animals and was very glad he didn't die.

#### Gwyndolin

Haylen enjoyed the time he spent touring the stables with him, as he had interesting things to tell about the animals.

#### Gundyr

Haylen doesn't know much about him, but doesn't have any reason to dislike him. He thinks Gundyr is good, though he asks some embarrassing things sometimes. He hopes to be friends.

#### Sozel

Haylen was scared he had bothered him at the graduation party, but felt he was a kindred spirit when he noticed how Sozel disliked the attention from the crowds. In finding the courage to talk to people more, he has managed to form some small friendship with Sozel which he is very happy for. The more time he spends with him the more Haylen sees how nice he is. He also sees Sozel is in some pain about his family and his cursed sword, which he hopes to cheer him up. He also appreciates the lengths Sozel will go to protect people, as it seems Sozel shows concern for him and his team often, especially when talking of his missions and the strange aura in his dorm. Haylen is glad Sozel has been so interested in cooking and baking, as it gives him the opportunity to share and teach his most loved hobby with someone. He hopes Sozel won't get bored of it, or notice how bad Haylen himself is at talking to people.

### Other

#### "Snow" The Doll

Haylen thought the doll was sweet and adorable at first, but as they met it a second time he became unsettled by it.

#### Icarus

Haylen feels very bad for the child and has cried for his sorrows, but ultimately he himself has no idea how to help him.

#### Kohga

Haylen is terrified of this man, as Kohga easily overpowered and pinned him to the ground with heavy hits. He's sad Sozel has to deal with a brother that hates him, and deep down hopes Kohga can one day see the error in his ways.

#### Meadow

Haylen spoke multiple times to this potion shopkeeper and liked their attitude, but happened to embarrass himself severely in front of them every time. He hopes they don't remember his mistakes, and thinks it would be cool to start over and appear normal.

#### Clump

Haylen is vaguely aware of Clump's enigmatic nature. He's unsettled by their masks but tries not to be. He likes to pretend the time he woke up to the party freaking out over dead bodies Clump left for them was just a bad dream.

#### Zari

Haylen thinks Zari is impressive and mysterious. He doesn't know much but he thinks she must be very good to be helping Estel all the time. She also has a lovely outfit.

## Trivia

* Haylen's design was based mostly on the appearance of a sunset.
	+ His blue eyes represent the sky, with the golden flecks representing the sun and sunshine.
	+ His pink and blue outfit are the general colors of the sky, the golden accents being the sun.
* Haylen's favorite food is strawberry shortcake.
* Haylen has a bedtime. He goes to sleep at 9:30pm and wakes at 5am every day. He can sleep through just     about anything, and even if he wakes up it will not be for long. However in the morning he is alert and ready to start his day.
	+ He tries to make breakfast every day for his team, sometimes assisted by Elovi or Estel.
* Haylen does well in warm climates.
* Haylen seems to have some trouble justifying using healing potions or soul gems, ending in him with something of a hoard of potions.