Trade Secrets [Arvon]

[Valentin Lee]

It was nice to be home. Well, close to it anyway. The small village she grew up was beyond the wall a bit more to the west, but this was good enough for now. Valentin hadn't really liked the thought of moving to Karanese, no matter how temporary it was, but it needed to be done. It was part of her duty as a cadet and her training needed to continue. Yet, she was allowed on this small mission as a small group that traveled between districts. It was a type of training, learning formations, and how to properly curie messages and news.

The message was not something she was privy to, so while their commander was in his meeting, she and the other cadets were able to roam. She was grateful for the chance to reacquaint herself with things here, not that it had been all that long. It was more comfortable just simply due to the fact that she knew the area so much better. There was small shops that she knew well from her time coming into Trost with her father. She almost wished she had something proper to trade now, just for the familiarity of it. This was not the life of a soldier, however. Her job would be to protect those trading, buying, making. These people needed to be made safe from all threats.

And still, she couldn't help but be drawn to the vendors that would make it possible for her to treat the other soldiers, even civilians if she could. The brunette slowed as she neared one such shop, her military issue boots coming to a halt as she glanced in the window of the store front. There was still so much that she didn't know. It would take her years still until she was as knowledgeable as the doctors that traveled from place to place in their attempts to help. She lifted her hand to lightly touch the glass.

If only she had the chance to truly shop and a way to get her supplies into the training camp. A farfetched dream, that, as she would be allowed to keep them anyway. It served no purpose there. At best she could hope that they would simply hold them until she was sent out with her squad and they would allow her the chance to use her additional skills should the need arise. Still unlikely, but a girl could dream.

[Arvon Lawler]

Perhaps… Arvon leaned thoughtfully, scrutinizing the assortments of remedies adorning the shelves. The cripple balanced against the crutch underneath his right arm to grab a bottle of tablets out of reach, observing them curiously. He rarely found himself on this side of the Wall however it was usually for the exact same reason he was here today. A man in Arvon’s situation could never have enough on hand, especially with how many injured Cadet’s and civilians seemed to flood the medical facilities these days. Thankfully for his own sake he did not require anything here for his… liability. Glancing absently to his leg he recalled the difficult first year of his affliction. Much of his family’s funds (at least what he managed to save during the attack of Wall Maria) went toward false promises. He was told he would be able to walk again if he continued the visits, but unfortunately it was “not meant to be.” Of course if he had known what he knew now of the human body, he would not have wasted such false hope and possessions to keep his ‘therapy’. Now to soothe the occasional aches he used a natural concoction of his own design, something that he mass produced for those in similar situations as himself.

The crippled blond took a final glance before deciding that he was done. Limping slowly to the counter, he purchased his goods with little fuss and began to hobble his way to the exit. He took note of a gleaming face ogling the interior of the store, a young girl actually. Her face glittered with intrigue; however there was a sting of something lost like a lost puppy stuck between the confines of the window and the wonders of the world. He withdrew his glance, not wanting to draw attention or seem rude. Shambling, he exited the familiar premises, his ears beginning to ring from the hustle of the market. He actually enjoyed the sound for it reminded him of a better time with his father, shouting to the passerby’s as he attempted to sell every spot of merchandise he had. They had spent months preparing it… only to be decimated in seconds by the Titans. Everything that was normal to Arvon died that day, and now he was here.

Unfortunately lost in his thoughts Arvon had miscalculated a step, losing his footing. Fortunately for him he was able to catch himself before making a complete full of himself. However his belongings fumbled onto the ground, scattering onto the dust. With a defeated sigh Arvon hobbled to the mess and attempted to gather them up before something else happened.

[Valentin Lee]

The slim cadet let her shoulders fall as she began to convince herself that she needed to leave. It was pointless to just stand here dreaming of all the things she would be able to do with the items within the shop. She wasn't going to have the chance to use her skills like the customers inside any time soon. Her hand fell to her side with a heavy sigh. Slowly she lowered her gaze and took a deep breath. Right, there were other things she could use her little bit of money on. Another book wouldn't go amiss. If she couldn't practice her skills, she could at least get a little more knowledge about them.

She made a small shift as the customer from inside the shop exited. Valentin finally let her longing gaze drift away from the store front just as the blond man lost his footing and his things spilled across the ground. Hey, are you okay? She asked, brow pinching in concern. She quickly dropped to a knee, leaning down to help gather his things. She was always eager to help, always happy to offer a hand, even for something as simple as picking up a dropped item or two. She gave a soft smile when she held out the things she had retrieved for him.

Her amber eyes caught sight of what she was actually holding. She knew very little about more natural remedies, but she could identify certain useful plants on occasion. Based on his purchase, it seemed this man might know a good deal more than her which sparked her interest just as much as the store itself. That spark of eagerness lit up in her eyes, made her grin all the brighter. This was perhaps the best coincidence she could have asked for. There weren't many people to discuss medicine with back at camp and a doctor hadn't stopped by to check them over which meant that she wasn't able to get practical answers to things she had read in her tomes.

Are you a doctor? She asked quietly, that hope of finding common ground with this individual clear in her voice. Surely there was still plenty of time before she had to head back to meet with her instructor. These kinds of trips took a while as surely the information brought meant they had to rethinking ... things, then send a mission back. Yes, she must have enough time to spend with the blond she was helping.

[Arvon Lawler]

Arvon fidgeted his attention to a peculiar sound singing behind him. Before long he was looking at a young girl adorned in a familiar uniform. Her one pigtail bobbed happily against her cheek and even from the angle and distance between them he could see irises beaming with curiosity. The girl from the window. Her expression was memorable and unmistakable. It brought a recollection of himself skipping through these streets once long ago with his father. He was not sure if he had looked into this particular shop as she did but the emotions were still kindred. The joy of seeing your passion so alive somewhere you have never been was a thrilling experience. Arvon dreamed of those pure feelings to arise again, but alas it was but a dream that would never return. Not for him at least. This nightmare was eternal. The sentence for humanity’s ignorance and what awaited them beyond the Wall. 

The cripple began to process that the young child was enraptured by the vial in her hand. Did she know what it was? I mean it was an assumption that she could perhaps, or the initial wonder in her eyes was only for the unknown world she explored. Visiting the part of town was very exciting, especially for those who had never been. Maybe she was a country girl who has never explored the thrill of market? It could be many things but his original thought seemed to be the most logical explanation. He could feel the stimulus reverberating from her as she ogled the bottle. Before long she turned her passionate gaze towards Arvon, who was buffeted back by her energy.

Are you a doctor? She asked. Well, in the state humanity was in yes. He had operated on people, using medicine to cure as well as his own concoction to soothe and heal. However, if that was the case everyone that worked at the makeshift facility for wounded was a doctor and that thought was terrifying. Men and women of all ages staffed that dark corner of death and despair and some could barely keep it together like a trained physician could, Arvon included. The blonde smiled uneasily, “No… I mean, I do work with medicine but… I wouldn’t go that far.” He gazed at her nervously, grabbing the bottles in her small hand. He placed them into his satchel, patting it down to make sure everything was where it needed to be. Arvon then began his ascent, teetering as he crawled up his crutch to regain motor functions. Well… at least half of them. He mentally cursed his liability, aware that people were probably staring at him as they strolled past. “Thank you Miss…” He added gently, a peaceful grin spreading.[/div]

[Valentin Lee]

Valentin was patient with the gentleman she was aiding. He seemed somewhat taken aback by her question, though she didn't know why. Maybe it was because someone her age was showing an interest in medicine. Maybe he just wasn't used to people stopping to help him and asked of him something that had nothing to do with the fact that he needed a crutch. She hadn't let that slip her attention, but was wholly ignoring it as that didn't truly matter unless he wanted it to. How many people had similar conditions, or worse? It might not seem like it, but she was sure that lost limbs were more common than most would like to admit to do to the titans, especially after the attacks.

The past five years had not been kind to the human race and they needed to make adjustments. For this man, it was learning a new way of getting around, but that made no difference as to who he was. He had something that she wanted. His knowledge, doctor or no, was something that piqued her interest and she wanted very much to spend time with him. Her smile faded just a little bit at his response, but she was not going to abandon this just because he personally didn't see himself as a doctor. If you don't mind, may I ask what you do? She further inquired as she stood straight beside him.

It occurred to her then that she was perhaps being a little too inquisitive of someone she just met. Her eyes went wide and the smile disappeared as she blushed. I'm sorry. I don't mean to bother you. I ... just ... Her words stuttered for a moment and faded into silence. She had gotten so caught up in the prospect of learning from someone about her favorite subject that she forgot they were strangers. This was not the doctor that stopped into her village every now and then. This was not a person her father had created a relationship with so that she could be so impulsive. Biting her lip, she looked down and offered a salute, fist resting over her heart.

I apologize. I overstepped my bounds. With a deep breath, Val slowly lifted her eyes to glance at the stranger she had so rudely intruded upon. Her embarrassment was rather clear in her rashness. He hadn't seemed all that upset initially, but that didn't mean it couldn't change. All he would see was a cadet assaulting him with questions and they had met bare moments ago. This was not the way a person with proper manners acted.

[Arvon Lawler]

If you don’t mind, may I ask what you do? Arvon did not mind, however the question he considered abrupt and perplexing. She skipped over, standing beside him and Arvon studied her attire again, puzzled. Surely those in the military were educated in treatment? Although, with how quickly humanity had to act on this abnormal force, it was also believable that they did not possess the manpower to; Arvon would be out of luck if that were the case. He realized what a poor assumption he made. She was probably interested in the art but had no access. The world was full of hustle and not wasting time on trivial wishes. She was labeled a soldier and would act as so, nothing else.

The girl seemed to take his apprehension to heart, her body language instantly changing to embarrassment. Her bright eyes shifted to the ground, face rosy and smile dying. I’m sorry. I don’t mean to both you. He was incredibly familiar with her misgivings. He had been that way once. After ‘coming to terms’ with his disability he approached the medical field as a reawakening, a place to learn new things and discover his new calling in this catastrophic existence. His introduction was less than satisfying. He was inexperienced, young, and damaged. He was told blatantly that he would get nowhere as well as no one was willing to carry the load he would bear. He did his best to show that he was useful and it had worked (somewhat), but not without damage. It was difficult and it had helped making Arvon who he was today…

I apologize… The rest of her words faded away, his eyes molding to concern. His heart began to thump as nervousness boiled into his gut. With an awkward bellow Arvon retorted, “N-no! I-It’s fine!” He glanced anxiously, noticing that he had drawn attention to their conversation. Even in such a loud environment, two young people (one of which was a cadet) drew eyes everywhere. He laughed, self-conscious of the image produced here. Arvon cleared his throat, starting again. “It is not a bother I assure you. I just… was stunned by your interest.” He leaned onto his crutch as support, stretching a gracious hand out. “Arvon Lawler. T-Thanks again for the help…” He left a proper opening for introduction, not forgetting to smile warmly, his cerulean eyes glittering.

[Valentin Lee]

The small cadet took a deep breath, readying herself to return to her primary post and await further instruction. Maybe she shouldn't have strayed in the first place. If caught, she might get into trouble, but that didn't bother her. She did think this little excursion was important to her, even if it was just window shopping. She didn't have this kind of access at either of the training grounds, so she took what opportunity she could to indulge her passion. Perhaps a stupid move now that she really though about it.

She was lucky that this man was tolerate of a teenager suddenly asking questions unbidden. The embarrassment faded a little and she offered a small smile. Her fist fell back to her side as she let the salute go. He was very nice not to get upset with her. They hadn't even exchanged names, which he was quick to remedy. Val took the offered hand, shaking it as she returned his grin. Valentin Lee. My pleasure to help, She greeted in return. She took her hand back slowly, letting her fingers lace in front of her as she fidgeted. For as much as she felt badly for the way she had acted without thought.

It didn't stop her wanting to continue that particular line on conversation. Well, maybe now that they were a little more acquainted, what with actually knowing each other's names now, it would be more acceptable. I'd be happy to offer my assistance any time I'm in the area, The cadet offered. It wouldn't be often right now, but she hoped to join the Garrison and be stationed here. That would give her plenty of opportunity to visit with Arvon if he allowed it and certainly time to learn from someone that knew more than she did. It was an exciting prospect if things worked out in her favor.

She just had to get things started in the right direction for that. For the kindness shown now, that didn't mean he would be willing to take on some girl following him around pestering him with questions. She had been spoiled as a small child, and she knew she couldn't expect it from everyone. Shadis certainly showed her that he didn't take questions well. He definitely didn't take the smallest infractions of his standards from anyone. It was ... scary "learning" from him. She could understand his methods, needing only the strongest cadets to get through so they had a better chance of staying alive. If her plan worked out, she might be able to continue to up their survival rate. She just needed more medical practice.

[Arvon Lawler]

There it was again. Her glowing conviction reverberated from her adolescent frame once again. Those were the eyes Arvon had seen walking out of the shop, beaming with exotic curiosity through the glass. The thought made his smile widen, staring back at the mirror image in front of him. Valentin Lee. My pleasure to help. Distinct but appropriate for her. After introductions completed, he saw her pull back and represent another startling likeness. They twiddled their hands the same. Arvon scolded himself for such ridiculous and childish thoughts. It wasn’t as if the blonde Lawler was the only person in the world who responded this way. Either way it was comforting to see similarities. Most people he acquainted with disliked Arvon manner and disposition. They found it pitiful, foolish, and
aggravating. It also enticed the wolves to strike with brisk abandon…

[/b]I’d be happy to offer my assistance any time I’m in the area.[/b] So she was not stationed here. It was logical with her childlike visage plastered on the window, as if discovering a new candy store. Perhaps being a part of the military she was aware of the makeshift tent near the Wall? “A-Are you familiar with th-the small tent in Trost? It’s a-a bit rundown but that is m-my station.” He informed. “If you ever h-have a moment….” Of course she won’t have a lot of free time you idiot. She is a soldier. You are a peasant. You are the underdog. People like this girl sacrificed their lives for poor excuses like him. The reality was disgusting. How many people had given their lives for his sad sack of flesh? One day maybe this girl would… no… no… don’t think about it. Don’t think about them. You are safe. You are safe here. Just like you were five years ago.

He wanted to take back his offer only because he was afraid; afraid of people getting too close. He felt like a bad omen. His imagination swirled with catastrophic possibilities. Maybe that was why everyone treated him the way they did. Did they see something that was invisible to him? No, no stop it Arvon. You’re losing it. He had thankfully drawn his irises from view of Valentin inquisitive gaze. Clearing his throat, Arvon breathed to retain his composure until it was over. “Also, th-there are some fascinating herbs within the w-walls that work great on minor w-wounds like cuts.” He decided to ask the question. “D-Do you not receive t-training for medical situations…?”[/center]

[Valentin Lee]

Valentin tilted her head a little as Arvon spoke, biting her lip in thought. The tent in Trost. It had been a few years since she was able to truly roam as she liked, but it hadn't been so long that she had completely forgotten it. Her father had never really had need of going to the tent so it was a little hazy. Yes, I'm pretty sure I do, She responded after a moment, knowing it was rude to just let him think that she was so unaware of all the places in Trost. This was not her home, but it came close with all the trips in for trading and the like.

She let her eyes drift back in the direction she had originally come from. The temptation to stay was strong even though she knew she had a duty to do. They would be missing her at some point. But, how often did she get this kind of opportunity? She quickly turned her bright brown gaze to the blond she had helped. If you aren't busy, I have time now, She said carefully, not wanting to sound over eager or pushy. The brunette would deal with whatever consequences that were bound to come her way for wandering off the way she was, but this was what she really wanted to be doing. The knowledge that Arvon had was invaluable and she wanted to be as helpful as she could.

As he began giving her a little insight as to what he knew, speaking of medicinal herbs, he had her attention entirely. Valentin knew that most medicines were mostly natural, but they weren't always the strongest, or the best. She had read a lot on more synthetic medicines that seemed to have worked. Granted, there were some books so old that she couldn't see how what what may have once been done was even real. This, what Arvon was saying, that was real. He knew because he had done it. She had not so she was inclined to learn what natural remedies he knew of. It could be the difference between life and death in the field.

I don't think we get enough of that kind of training, Val replied, a small frown slowly taking place on her lips. Her eyes were still shining with interest, but it was clear on her face that she was bothered by the lack of training they received other than basic first aid. What could would them knowing about plants do them against a Titan? What if they died out there because no one knew what to do? Maybe more could have come home... The cadet bowed her head, saddened by her words. She didn't want that to keep happening. If she could learn outside the training grounds and then show them how beneficial it was, maybe things would change.