Fantasy Bravely Null

[InsaneAsylum]

Rivienne​

“Leave it to nobility to make me have to think harder...” the general grumbled as she rubbed her temples. After several deep breathes, the general rose to her feet, a newfound look of determination in her face and voice.

“The plan will work. Our shitfaced or well... shit pants comrade Locke will be the distraction.” She looked to Locke before continuing. “I need you to whatever it takes to get all of the attention on yourself. I don’t care if you have to charge in butt naked. Do whatever it takes.”

Morgan then turned the the shortest pair of nobles. “Y’all can hide in some crates. Have Adel and your other little bodyguards carry you onto the ship. To do that you fellas need to dress like sailors. Get the drop on some fellas and steal their gear. Once you’re onboard, take care of the captain. I would prefer him alive, but it isn’t necessary.”

Finally, Morgan turned to Locke and co. “And you lot... ah, you’ll help gather our escapee friends from around the town. We’ll need them if we intend to actually keep the ship once we get onto it. I’m sure some of them know how to sail... hopefully.”

Morgan whispered the last bit, before looking over her ragtag group. “This is probably the silliest plan I’ve ever come up with, but I know it will work. Go get it done.”

———————————————

Suddenly, a several loud booms resounded across the village. Explosions sent groups of zealots flying through the air... or at least pieces of them. On the other side of the village, the shape of a ship was barely visible between all the smoke. Umeko and her followers were forced to scatter before the next barrage hit.

Several moments later it did, another round of explosions bombarded the village, seeming to target the the arson loving bandits with uncanny accuracy. Umeko herself was barely spared.

“This way!” A voice called out from inside the village. A pair of women wearing light blue bandas and and wielding katanas were waving for the Feurey nobles’ attention. “We don’t have much time! Aiko is gonna light this place up in a couple minutes whether you lot are onboard or not!”

The two women would lead the nobles through the burning buildings and searing flames. Screams echoed throughout the village accompanied sound of tearing and crunching. It sounded like a warzone, but it wasn’t long before they came upon the dock. There, a wooden bridge had been extended out from the ship to the dock below. The ship itself was unique. It was obviously of Feurey craftsmanship, but there were some rivienne elements built into it, making it not only larger, but able to hold more cannons. Several blue banners hung off the side of the ship, each with a bright blue snowflake symbol on it. It would be recognizable as the symbol of the Glacial Pirates.

The Glacial Pirates were well known for having evaded not only the entire Tiger Clan on several occasions, but for stealing and sinking several of rivienne's ships near the end of the war.

A round face peered over the side of the ship, before a short woman hopped onto the railing. She had bright blue eyes and long black hair tied into a single braid behind her. She wore a long silk kimono the same color as her eyes, with floral patterns throughout. Her gaze carefully examined the nobles before her, resting on one in particular for a couple seconds longer.

“I thought there would be more of you. Nevertheless, I’m glad Otomo managed to get some of you out. Hurry up and get on the ship, I’m risking too much even being here.” Aiko Akai was short, and her face was round and soft. Not only that her voice was high enough you’d mistake her for a preteen. Nontheless, she was notorious for being the most gifted member of the Akai family in generations.

 

[King Crimson]

Lady Clarabella of Gavenia​

"It would seem we are all in accord, then." Clara solemnly nodded.
Normally, she would feel some measure of pride in seeing her stratagem be recognized by one of Rivienne's finest, but she could do nothing to allay the niggling worries that nagged at her mind; there were far too many holes, far too many variables, far too many things that could go wrong.
And considering that the fair general was going through with the plan, despite having similar feelings...Clara was beginning to doubt her most of all.
But she swallowed such thoughts, and then pushed them out with a vaguely agitated sigh.
Poorly thought plan or no, it was their best shot at leaving the city with little resistance, and she had already made it quite clear that she wouldn't suffer another day in the sands.
Placing the sizable parcel of assorted supplies she'd gathered upon the ground, Clara reaches her hands in, blindly shuffling about her various things in search of something she'd gathered of particular value, whilst she continued, "...and if it can be helped, I would prefer we keep any bloodshed or havoc we may inflict to a minimum. Our names are already in poor enough standing amongst the public, and I am loathe to draw arms against my fellow countrymen, even should they do so in turn."
Finally feeling the coarse, familiar texture of what she had been searching for, Clara pulls her hands out from her satchel, retrieving a long, heavy coat of thick, coarse burlap, not unlike the material one would use for storage.
In fact, it looked less like proper clothing, and more like a filthy sack that had been torn and repurposed.
"Here," she explains, holding two matching cloaks out towards her fellow, soon-to-be sneakthiefs.
"I had hoped to use these to disguise ourselves amongst the commoners, but I suppose we will find similarly dressed company amongst their comestibles."
With a flourish, Clara drapes her own cloak upon her shoulders, ignoring the itchy, straw texture that immediately prickled her fair skin.
As she fastens the yarn string around her neck, she turns towards the rest of her company, much of her face hidden behind the cloak's makeshift cowl, as she adds, "I would volunteer Sir Cocksburrow, and Sir Gerran to act as our envoys onto the ship; we are dealing with hardened, grizzled, muscular men of the sea, and if we are to be unnoticed, we shall need those who can play the part."
After an uneasy silence, she turns towards the rest of her group, mainly Ashe and Lanthane, awkwardly adding, "Ah...I mean no offense to the rest of you lot...just that you do appear a trite too...feminine."

Interacting:
Lanthane/Ayka/Gerran, Arcanist
Adelbrecht, Orikanyo
Vivian/Lyari/Ashe Takumi98
Lockeheed/Hiro/Shaia The Black Knight
Morgan InsaneAsylum

 

[Pepsionne]

Yui Akai | Ryuichi Kubo ​

At the jarring feeling of explosions vibrating the very air around them, Ryuichi shoved Yui behind his back instinctively, eyes searching rapidly for the source of the fire. He hunched down as more rounds of explosives were hurled their way, his stomach dropping at the sight. It was too late to run from them, who knows how far back the cannons were aimed. Their best bet was to stay put and--his jaw went slack at witnessing how accurate the cannon fire was, the group of samurai who had terrorized them mere moments before sent flying through the air. He lifted his arm to shield from the loosed debris thrown up from the impact, feeling both dry earth and wet blood slap against his clothing.

Yui watched, the fire of excitement in her eyes inappropriate for the scene of flailing body parts and spraying blood before them. She looked over Ryuichi’s shoulder, hearing a bold voice reach out to them through the wreckage of the town. Her attention sharpened at hearing the name Aiko uttered from the woman’s lips. Aiko Akai, the woman they had been instructed to find on the battlefield earlier. After an entire day of bad luck strung endlessly behind them, having something good thrust in their direction felt like a life raft. Yui didn’t think anyone in their group was up for what the crazed Samurai had in store for them before Aiko’s ship had cut in.

She smirked devilishly as the samurai woman Umeko was left floundering around on the field. Her grip tightened on the hilt of her sword, fingers itching to cut the woman down after the humiliating stint she had put Yui through mere moments before. She looked up at Ryuichi innocently at the feeling of his judgmental stare boring into her. She released her hand from the hilt of her sword, settling instead for sprinting down through the wreckage towards the ship in the distance, going out of her way to forcibly knock shoulders with Umeko, sending the woman off her balance. Yui shot a dirty look her way before setting her gaze back in front of her to follow the women in the distance.

Once aboard the large ship floating gently in the water of the ocean, Yui bowed deeply towards Aiko, a little taken aback by her short stature. In the stories she had been told about her, Aiko was never described as petite. “Yui Akai,” She said, lifting her gaze up to meet the woman’s before she rightened her posture. “Daughter of Kotaro Akai. It’s an honor to meet you, finally.”

Yui could never admit it growing up within the Tiger Clan village, but she had always admired the tall tales that were passed around about Aiko. Hearing her fiery rebellion against the clan rules, taking battles whenever she wanted to, it was like Yui’s dream. When she was younger, seemingly always in punishment for some impulsive decision she had made that day, Yui would fantasize about running off from the village and finding Aiko, joining her crew of skilled pirates on the open sea where she could do anything she wanted, fight anyone she wanted. Even now, after growing to understand and practice the values that the Tiger Clan upheld, she still admired the free spirited nature of the woman before her.

Once Yui had finished her introduction to the former Akai noble, Ryuichi kneeled before Aiko, bowing his head down low in respect. Any Akai noble, exiled or not, were to be given a proper greeting. “Ryuichi Kubo,” He said, head still tilted down towards the dock of the ship. “I am Yui’s vassal.”

Yui gestured for him to stand, unable to contain the excitement that ignited her features as she anxiously looked around the ship. It was even better than she had imagined in her childhood. Her eyes stuck on the flag of the Glacial pirates, its bold blue fabric contrasting against the faint orange glow still flickering from the burning village behind them. Yui looked behind her, almost forgetting the other nobles entirely in the excitement of finally meeting her long lost aunt. Hopefully they were all able to make it through the wreckage unscathed.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Hibiki felt several explosions shook the ground as they sent pieces of Umeko's followers every which way. The explosions detonated on or near one of Umeko's men without fail in an impressive display of accuracy. Recalling old memories of lessons and lectures about each of the clans. Hierarchy influential people and many other small details he could never fully commit to memory past the test that concerned them. He did clearly remember one event, the fissure in the Tiger clan Aiko Akai. She was very talented second only to her sister Mimi. At some point she decided to throw off her sister's shadow and formed a group of like minded individuals. Thus began the story of the infamous and unmatched pirate captain. Nobody could catch her not the bounty hunters, not the Kingdom and not even the Tiger Clan. At the time he was young, always excited to listen to the rumors and stories about Aiko in the time he was not relentlessly being drilled in combat stealth or survival. One thing that many stories about Akio and her crew mentioned was the pinpoint accuracy of their shots. Always hitting a mast, weak point in the hull with frightening precision that bordered on supernatural.

Moments later Hibiki could see two women in the distance and hear their shouting and confirming his suspicion. He shook off the old memories and focused on what was around him once more. "Seiichi take point, Naoko stay behind him I'll be right behind the both of you!" The group ran toward the two women following right behind the Tiger pair. Hibiki could not help but notice the Tiger woman shove into Umeko as she passed. They caught up to the pair of pirates and continued to follow them through the burning ruins of the town ducking and weaving through buildings alleys and streets.

Before long the infamous ship of the Glacial Pirates presented itself, blue banners proudly displayed for all to see. The snowflake proudly displayed as if to dare any opponent to try and sink them. A short woman hopped onto the ship's railing Introducing herself as Akio Akai. Hibiki, Naoko and Seiichi all were surprised they imagined the legendary Akio would be taller but here she was appearing to be only in her early teens. Hibiki knew stories and rumors exaggerated thing but never this much. Nevertheless The trio walked across the gangplank onto the ship at Akio's urging. Hibiki had never been on a ship before now, there was never a reason to, so he started looking around noting the crew busy with some of the deck cannons maintaining the bombardment the thunderous roar louder now that they were at the source though he figured that would stop soon as they had arrived on the ship. Naoko nudged Hibiki shaking him from his mind and making him realize he hadn't introduced himself. Naoko quietly giggled at her charge's brief display of wonder while Seiichi just smiled both well aware of Hibiki's fascination with the stories around Akio and her crew.

"Sorry, anyway name's Hibiki of the Rat Clan, no surname" Hibiki said with a nod.

"I am Naoko, Hibiki's retainer." Naoko followed with a polite bow of her own.

"I am Seiichi, Hibiki's retainer and shield." Seiichi followed bowing deeper then Naoko, causing Hibiki to just smirk and mutter something about being a stickler for the rules.

 

[Misuteeku]

Sheridan Sasaki
​

Sheridan stumbled in surprise when an explosion erupted out of nowhere. She had been focused on observing the zealot samurai in case she decided to become hostile. Fortunately, whatever sent the zealots flying was definitely on their side, hopefully. Turning around and looking around, she saw the biggest ship with an oppressive, frigid blue flag raised on the sail. Instinctively ducking her head as another explosive barrage hit the dock, she could hear the screeches of the townsfolk. What was left of them anyways was the burning and destroyed debris of homes and the corpses that were being 'cleansed' by the zealots. "How sad," Sheridan mumbled to herself as she turned away from the carnage. Even though she had seen this sight before, both at the battle of the Crane and back at home, she still could not steel herself from feeling any of it.

Turning back to her allies, Sheridan realize that while she was distracted her allies were already running away to the boat. "Now's not the time..." She mumbled to herself as she began to run after them. The zealots were cowering away due to the cannon fire emerging from the ships and the pirates that jumped out to secure their way out. Her allies had already managed to board the ship while she straggled from behind.

Finally boarding the sea vessel, she took a few breaths of relief. She was rather exhaust, no thanks to her short structure and low stamina, though they were finally safe. Taking a look over towards her allies, she observed they had possessed some form of recognition with the owner of the ship. Unfortunately for Sheridan, she did not possess that recognition. Being isolated in a forest would do that to a person. She could only guess that there on an infamous pirate ship considering her allies reactions and the size of the boat.

"My name is Sheridan Sasaki," Sheridan said, providing nothing more than her name. She didn't know what else to add since she possessed no title. If she were to mention her master, she doubt they would know who they are.

 

[The Black Knight]

Locke tilted his head at the general as he gave her a raised blond brow and condescending look. It wasn’t as if he and his comrades hadn’t planned everything before she decided to just state the obvious as though she had come up with the idea. Shaia was staring at him, giving him a scolding look. His blue eyes flicked over to her face once before he turned his attention away. He popped the cork on the water skin, spat the cork into the wheel barrel and started taking a few heavy drinks. Closing his eyes in content, he lowered the skin before dumping some water into his hand to splash onto his face. He washed his face clean before retrieving the cork to force it back into the mouth of the waterskin.

When the general gave Shaia and Hiro their orders, the two were taken back by such a lousy quest. Locke laughed, “And you guys were hoping to get in on the action. Maybe you two should strip naked and be the distraction?” He removed the clothing from his lap and rose out of the barrel. Shaia turned her head as the naked sellsword rested his hands upon his hips and stretched. He purposefully bent over, mooning the royals and general as he stretched his hamstrings.

“Are you sure you want to send us on such a simple task? You could get anyone to do that,” Shaia complained. “Who’s going to keep this idiot from getting killed?”

Locke straightened and grinned at Shaia. “Hey, don’t disobey orders.”

He walked away from the group, heading straight for the ship. He wasn’t discreet and didn’t even try to hide. The crewmembers moving cargo off the ship were so engrossed in their duties that they didn’t even notice him when he started sliding by them on the footbridge. There wasn’t enough room for a person to walk by and so Locke brushed against them, his back against the rope that made the rail. One of the workers happened to meet Locke’s eyes, and as soon as they passed, he attempted to look again. “What the-!”

“Hey! Pay attention!” the one helping him carry the crate exclaimed.

Once Locke made it onto the deck, he met the quartermaster who was gawking at him. “What the he-!”

Locke pulled his hat down over his eyes and started skipping about. “Wooo! Out to sea! Out to sea! Yar-har me mateys it’s the place to be!”

Running around and being chased by a bunch of sailors was reminding him of his time in maximum security. He had really lost his mind, and interesting enough, it had felt good. He hadn’t cared about how anyone felt or what anyone thought about him. It was liberating and running around naked on a navy ship was even more liberating. He could hear the quartermaster screaming in rage:

“Get that fool off the ship!”

Sailors dropped their mops and ropes and started charging Locke. The sellsword started to climb the mast and those who attempted to climb after him were hesitant and adverting their eyes as though being blinded by the ass they’d have to climb after.

“What are you doing? Go up there after him!” the quartermaster screamed.

The sailors looked at the officer pathetically. The quartermaster growled and removed a flintlock from his holster. “The hell with this!”

Locke reached one of the beams and quickly whirled around the mast as the flintlock round scraped passed the wood. Poking his head out, he taunted, “What are you shooting at? The mast? That’s not how you sail a ship!”

“Hey whack job!” a sailor in the crow’s nest called down to him. He had a flintlock pointed at him and Locke pursed his lips and spat a wad of saliva into his face. The sailor exclaimed in disgust and recoiled as Locke reached up to grab his ankle. He jerked it out from beneath him and pulled, causing the sailor to fall, striking his back against the edge of the nest before he fell to the deck below. Reaching up, Locke grasped the edge of the nest and tumbled inside it. Standing, he gazed about at all of Capybara Town and shouted crow like caws into the air.

“CA-CAW! CAPYBARA! DUMBEST NAME FOR A TOWN!” he shouted.

The sailors started climbing the ropes and Locke spat in their faces. “What will we do with a drunken sailor; what will we do with a drunken sailor; what will we do with a drunken sailor; early in the morning! Way-hay up she rises; way-hay up she rises; way-hay up she rises; early in the morning!”
Arcanist InsaneAsylum King Crimson Orikanyo Takumi98

 

[InsaneAsylum]

Feurey
​

After every noble was onboard, and the rest of her crew returned to the ship, Aiko inhaled deeply. He hands rose above her head, and returned back down to her center. The water beneath the ship began to churn, before suddenly, the ship was pushed away from the dock by about 100 meters. The crew had already braced themselves in preparation, no doubt having gone through this before. The nobles might find themselves toppling over.

Aiko wasn’t done yet though. She reached into her kimono, grasping something. With a high pitched grunt, she threw several paper tags into the air. The symbol drawn on each let out a blue glow, floating in place. Aiko slowly rose her hands into the air, her own eyes glowing a similar blue color. As her hands rose, the water between the ship and the village began to rise. A massive wave began to form, towering high over the ship, so much so it felt like it was raining to those on the ship. With a single labored gasp, Aiko pushed the wave forward onto the village, annihilating it in its entirety. Anything that remained in the village was without a doubt crushed into unrecognition.

The notorious pirate captain wobbled atop the ship railing, nearly falling into the sea before two of her crew grabbed onto her and pulled her back onto the ship.

“Alright... it’s done. Nap time...” Aiko mumbled, drifting off to sleep in her crew’s arms. She was carried off to her quarters, where she would be placed onto her bed to sleep.

One of the crew approached the nobles. “I apologize for the lack of introduction. The situation was urgent. We had to stomp out the disease before it spread any further. Of course, you saw who was already dealing with it in their own cruel barbaric way. It was too late to save them... unfortunately.” The woman gazed off for a moment, before turning back to the nobles.

“We already having beds for you all to sleep in. Is there anything else you all need while we wait for the captain to wake up? There’s food below deck if you’re hungry.”

 

[Pepsionne]

Yui Akai | Ryuichi Kubo​

Ryuichi instinctively braced Yui when the ship began to lurch in the water, his hand placed defensively by her elbow in order to catch her should she lose her balance. Yui’s eyes were widened in fascination at Aiko, feeling the sheer amount of magic the woman was able to easily control. The thought of reaching the same feats with her wind magic made the fire in her eyes gleam brightly, rivalling the serene glow of the sun. She yelped in surprise once the harsh momentum of the ship veered away from the dock. The movement sent her body flying into Ryuichi’s chest, both of their body weights becoming too much of a sudden impact for him to reasonably counter. They both tumbled down to the ground, Ryuichi taking the brunt of the fall onto the hard planks of the dock. He let out a startled gasp as he felt his spine collide hard against the unforgiving wood.

Yui sat up quickly once the ship stopped after its brief exit from the dock. Her eyes glossed over with concern at seeing a winded Ryuichi beneath her, his face grimaced in pain. She helped him sit up slowly, guiding him in catching his breath after the fall. She touched his elbow to help him stand, eliciting a loud yelp from the man who recoiled from her touch. Yui bit her lip in worry as she looked down at his arm without moving it. Had he fractured it perhaps? Sprained it? She cursed under her breath, thinking back to all the times in the Tiger Clan when she had let her mind wander into imaginary battles rather than focus on the healing techniques and practices they were teaching. The clan had identified her as a Red Mage, which on paper would have allowed her to use healing magic on top of her wind. She couldn’t care less about the healing magic though, as it didn’t do anything for her in the heat of battle. Hell, she barely even practiced her wind magic either, the sole focus having been her raw combat ability. Had she paid more mind in fostering the practice, Ryuichi’s minor injury would have been healed by now. Maybe this was a sign for her to start taking her Red Mage abilities seriously.

Yui looked up to find Aiko, her eyes widening upon seeing the woman perform some type of powerful magic. It felt like her very being had been sucked into the mesmerizing blue glow that filled Aiko’s eyes. Her momentary hypnosis gave way once a large, lurking shadow was thrown off from the growing wave that rose behind them. Yui swallowed hard, feeling a sudden cold air wash over the deck ominously. She blinked as the wind stole droplets from the large, churning wave, sending sprinklets of water to ghost back over them. Her eyes widened in a raw panic once Aiko sent the wave crashing over the burning village, drowning out both the horrors of the massacre and the hope of the survivors in one fell swoop. Yui sank to her knees at the sight, unable to fully process what she was looking at before her. The ship bobbed in the returning wakes of the wave.

After taking a moment to fully absorb the situation at hand, Yui returned to Ryuichi’s side and helped him to his feet using his non-injured arm. Despite the pain he must have been feeling, Yui could tell in his demeanor that he was listening closely to every word that Aiko’s crew member relayed to them. Some food and a nap sounded great right now, but first they would have to heal the possible fracture Ryuichi was currently nursing. Yui was sure they could find some kind of medical kit to create a sling, but that would take weeks to heal. It would be more practical for them to utilize healing magic. “Do you have any healers on board?” She asked the crew member, her gaze determined. She swallowed in annoyance once glancing at the other nobles that had joined them, hoping the injury wouldn't make them appear weak.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

The sudden movement of the ship caused Hibiki, Naoko, and Seiichi to all stumble. Hibiki ever the nimble one was able to quickly shift his weight behind him on his right foot. Naoko was only just able to prevent herself from falling on the deck by grabbing Hibiki's left upper arm and pulling, without missing a beat Hibiki grabbed her left shoulder. In that moment the two looked like they were about to dance at a Riviennan ball. Seiichi was not as lucky being unprepared for the sudden movement and in heavy armor he fell on his back.

Seiichi looked up at his companions as he got himself up with a groan and an accusatory stare directed at Hibiki. "You know the famous saying, ladies first." Hibiki defended with a shrug "Besides your not as pretty." Seiichi tried to see if it was possible to kill with a look, unfortunately his foe was still standing. Naoko could only giggle at the men's antics.

Before a war with words could break out between the two their attention was taken away by Aiko's magic as they watched her direct a massive wave of water to crush the nameless port town they just left like some kind of orchestral conductor. Then as quick as it came, all the majesty of the moment disappeared as the famous pirate fell asleep in the arms of several crew members that seemed to be there for the express purpose of carrying the short woman off to her quarters.

When another crewmember offered food and a bed to rest Hibiki felt as if all the stress of fighting the Tiger clan, running through the swamp fighting several of it's inhabitants and dealing with a half crazed pyromaniac rushed at him at once and he could hardly refuse though he wanted sleep first. "Can tell us where the beds are I could use the sleep, It has been a very eventful day."

A man stepped up to the group "Guest quarters 're below deck, third door on the right fer men and left fer the women. Mess hall's first room on the right, follow me and I can guide ya there." Without another word he left not paying any heed to who followed or stayed. Hibiki and Seiichi both followed after the man, not paying any mind to anything but the male guest quarters and a group of simple cots. The pair chose two near each other climbed in, and succumbed to the fatigue.

Naoko decided to wait awhile on deck admiring the waves as they crashed into the now distant shore of the ruined town. It was the voice of the Tiger clan woman that shook her back to reality. Naoko turned back towards the group remaining on deck grabbing her satchel with medicinal herbs, ointments and clean bandages. "I may be able to help him ma'am, if you don't mind me having a closer look" Naoko kept at a distance as she waited for a response not wanting to accidently offend the noble woman.

Pepsionne

 

[Misuteeku]

Sheridan Sasaki
​

With their safety secured and the zealots away from them, Sheridan let exhaustion wash over her. Unfortunately, unlike her companions, Sheridan fell flat onto her stomach when the ship suddenly moved in a burst of speed. It did not stop there as she started to roll along with the deck from the momentum of the ship. It was only when one of the pirates spotted her rolling along and grabbed her by the waist did she stop tumbling.

Groaning from both exhaustion and tumbling, she slowly got up with the assistance of the pirate. "Thanks..." She murmured as she placed a hand on her forehead. The world was spinning for her and there was a nauseous feeling that was creeping up. Sheridan didn't know if this was an upgrade to comfortability or not, but at least they weren't being harassed by a bunch of zealots. With that being said, she felt the pirate tap her shoulder and looked up at the pirate.

"Oi, lass, you don't look too good," The pirate said as he helped her steady herself. "Let's take ya below deck and get ya some rest." To that statement, Sheridan accepted the pirate's generosity and allowed him to guide her towards the living quarters. Looking off to the left side, she saw her other companions entering into rooms to get rest. "Aight, to the right ya go." Sheridan nodded and gave her thanks again before entering the room.

Laying down onto a vacant bed, Sheridan took a few deep breaths before stilling. This journey was one big mess, especially with those murderous zealots trying to kill them. Her personal puppets were rendered inoperable due to the amount of water that sunk into their mechanisms, she was drenched and dirty from all the water, and she hadn't gained anything other than the skeleton of the serpent. Speaking of the said serpent, Sheridan began to fiddle around with her talismans. It was time to create a new puppet.

 

[Arcanist]

Gerran Perall | Lanthane Grivois | Ayka Galani
Takumi98 , Orikanyo , The Black Knight , King Crimson , InsaneAsylum
​

Lanthane had little memory of what occurred after his drunken commentary with Adal. All this talk of beautiful, fine women, and not a single one had even managed to make it into his bed. Come to think of it, he was unsure of how he had even gotten to his bed. It would eventually dawn on the hanging dark-eyed man that his ever reliable retainer had carted him off to a bed in the inn that the travellers managed to procure for themselves.

Though, that was after the fact they had been rudely awakened and had to meet with their ringleader Morgan.

Lanthane, for once, had been silent during the affair, scowling at no one in particular. The one bit of respite they were allowed, and it was shattered by the goddess-damned navy of all things. Ayka seemed equally perturbed by it, but more that they would have to risk life and limb for temporary safety once again.

Gerran, stony-faced as always, pondered the situation. But somehow, even Lanthane could tell the man was cautious about their situation.

“Stealing a navy ship…” Gerran murmured, rubbing his jaw. The Lady Clarabella voiced some very realistic concerns. Stealing a ship was suicide. Stealing Rivienne’s navy fleet was suicide. But it was either flee, get caught again, and possibly die, or try and take the ship...get caught...possibly die. Gerran glanced at Lanthane and Ayka. “Any objections?”

“It’s not as if we have much other choice, is there?” Ayka murmured.

Lanthane, before he agreed, instead turned his nose up at the young noble’s comment, the only really piece of conversation he had picked up from all of this. “Feminine?”

Ayka rolled her eyes and interjected, “You’re not exactly the brick house that Gerran is built like. You’re more like...a stick house, that a wolf could easily blow down.”

Lanthane, equally as disgusted at the comment, sneered at Ayka, “You weren’t complaining that one night you availed of my company.”

“I certainly wanted to complain the next morning, that was for sure.”

Gerran sighed, looking at Clarabella and nodded. “I would be more than happy to play that part, my lady. Though, we must be cautious in gathering the things we need, especially from those sailors.”

Ayka smirked. “Don’t worry your pretty brick head,” she reassured him, looking at the rest of them. “I have just the plan to grab what you need.”

The plan, in question, was simple. Armed with her tremendous acting skills and charm, she would lure the sailors right into a trap laid by her and the group in a nearby alley, where they would pounce upon them to get the uniforms they so desperately needed. Lanthane had quipped the idea would never work. Ayka challenged his foggy brain to come up with a better idea.

And now, instead, here she was, waving at some of those working on the ship. “Yoohoo, boys~! You must have been at sea for an awfully long time to give me a look like that!” That sweet tone of hers was poisoned honey sweet, the same voices of the girls Lanthane took too much of a liking too.

But it seemed to work. A few of the men wandered over. A tall sailor with a thick accent quipped, “Ain’t it a bit early in the day for you, sunshine?”

As if Ayka would be out frolicking all night. She simply didn’t have the energy for it. “Oh, never,” she giggled, twirling a strand of her hair, twisting her body back and forth. “And besides, I’m sure you all could do with a...destresser, hm?”

Lanthane cringed from afar in the shadows of a nearby alley at hearing such over-exaggerated acting. “This is ridiculous…” He murmured.

“Ridiculous it may be...but it might just work,” Gerran responded, hushed. With any luck, Ayka would lead those men right where they wanted them to get the jump on them.

 

[Takumi98]

Vivian Grivois | Lyari Morcant | Ashe Starvos​

Vivian winced slightly at Morgan's jibe towards the nobleman. Granted, surely a good number in their group hadn't put in such a situation with the odds as they were. Keeping quiet as the rest of the plan was hashed out, she glanced to Clarabella as she handed both her and Lyari cloaks. Giving her fellow noble a smile and nod in thanks she quickly put it on and raised its hood. Lyari followed suit, removing her hat and tucking it away on her person for safe keeping.

At Clara's comment towards him and Lanthane, Ashe merely shrugged. Not at all offended, and too tired this early in the morning to even bother to voice a complaint. Though he raised a fist to cough in an attempt to cover up an amused snort at Lanthane's reaction and slight bickering with Ayka following it. The Prince already seemed to be in a bad mood, so it was best to not add to it.

With Ayka's plan to get them uniforms so they could get on the ship and blend in much easier, Ashe considered it a good plan in light that they didn't have much else to go on outside of the distraction and sneaking the smaller nobles in. As long as things went smoothly, he had no real complaints other than the fact that the risks were rather high for all involved.

InsaneAsylum Arcanist King Crimson The Black Knight Orikanyo

 

[InsaneAsylum]

Rivienne​

“What on the Goddesses’s green earth is going on out here?” A gruff voice shouted from the ship. The voice came from an older man with a short gray beard and an admiral’s uniform. Four medals decorated his chest. The man’s sharp brown eyes analyzed the situation, before his gaze turned upwards to see the naked man making a fool of his crew. “I knew coming to this hick town would be a pain in my ass, but this is beyond depraved,” the man grumbled. He grabbed the collar of a nearby by crewmate, shaking him roughly. “If that man’s head isn’t separated from his shoulders by the time I come back out here I’m going to leave half of your sorry asses in this town!” The admiral screamed. The whole crew heard this, and ramped up their efforts to handle Locke.

Meanwhile, the ex-general was busy gathering up what prisoners she could to help take over this ship. Unfortunately, the majority of them had no intention of stealing a ship.

“I’m not pushing my luck a step farther!”

“Are you insane? No one in their right mind bugs with the navy!”

“Uggghhhhhhhh.... who are you again?”

There were several excuses, and Morgan was beginning to get frustrated. She’d only managed to sexure the assistance of about ten men. Far less than she’d hoped. “Blimey... this lazy bastards. Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to steal one of these? ... Perhaps I am loose in the head.”

Morgan peaked from an alleyway, watching Locke’s distraction. “He’s good... but he might not last much longer.”

She scanned the buildings near where soldiers stood around crates. Many were using Locke’s chaos to take a break. If they were to rush them, they may be able to overtake them. There were alleyways near them they could sprint out of, but they’d need to occupy them for a moment. Another idea popped into the general’s red head.

“Where’s my dark knight at?” She asked aloud.

 

[Orikanyo]

Adalbrecht

He haf been quiet and just sort of going along with what the others wanted to do till this point. In truth, he was still groggy, ragged, and smelling lightly of capybara.

But he was here, sure enough.

Though... He was now being mentioned by title he so haphazardly slapped on himself...

Well... Whatever the general had in mind... It wont be fun...

"I'm here... Do.. you need me for something?"

 

[Pepsionne]

Yui | Ryuichi ​

Yui looked over at the Rat clan healer as she approached the two of them. She smiled exuberantly when she heard the woman speak while clutching her small bag full of medicinal supplies. “Of course not,” She beamed towards Naoko, gesturing for her to move in closer to inspect Ryuichi’s arm.

Ryuichi stiffened at the thought of letting someone take a look at the injury he had sustained, but Yui’s warm disposition softened him. He eyed Naoko once she approached them with her bag. It was his job to be skeptical, after all, mitigating the risks that Yui encouraged from her reckless habit of running headlong into any situation. Sure they had fought and traversed dangerous waters with this healer, but it wasn’t going to change the fact that they all had witnessed the unforgivable atrocities that the Tiger Clan had committed. From the rumors he had heard floating around, the Rat Clan had been hit the hardest, their elusive clan nearly wiped to extinction from Mimi’s fiery wrath. There was too much for the negative feelings of revenge to feed off of for Ryuichi to feel at ease being healed by Naoko. Nonetheless, at Yui’s persistent prodding, he held out his throbbing arm to her, his gaze set on every minute movement of her hands.

“Do you mind explaining to me what you’re doing and why?” Yui asked the woman curiously. “I think it’s about time I start learning how to utilize my healing magic.”

Interacts: Shadow Dancer

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Gaining the tiger noble's permission Naoko stepped forward and started looking at the man's arm. Upon hearing the Tiger woman's question she nodded. "I'm going to touch the arm, I need to get a feel for how serious the damage is." Her voice was even and firm.

Without delaying she gently put pressure on several spots on the man's arm. Ignoring the mans gaze on her movements, she noted the way his arm moved in response. "Well bruising is not too bad, arm's not misshapen. You're in luck it's doesn't seem to be a fracture, just a sprained arm and you probably jarred the shoulder, wrist and elbow joints as well. Magic could heal it quickly, but if there is no hurry a nights rest and a little something for the pain should do the trick."

Truthfully Naoko didn't want to use her already taxed mana reserves. Healing Seiichi, and Hibiki from the worst of their wounds in the battle with the Tiger clan and then in the swamps after fighting the monsters took a lot out of her.

Naoko went into her pouch and pulled out a packet half the size of her palm and handed it to the Tiger woman. "This is a herbal paste for numbing pain and healing bruises, put a bit of water on it then. apply it around the shoulder, wrist and elbow, and any bruises on the arm. With rest he should be bruise free and the sprain and joint pain should be mostly healed, at least enough to move the arm with only minor discomfort."

Naoko shook her head with an amused smile, "No it isn't any sort of poison, though try not to eat it or you will enjoy several hours of diarrhea. Let me know if something gets worse. Any other questions or concerns will have to wait, I need some rest."

Naoko left the pair for the woman's guest quarters shortly after arriving she found a bunk and climbed in.

Pepsionne

 

[Pepsionne]

Yui Akai | Ryuichi Kubo ​

Ryuichi grimaced at Naoko's gentle touch, expecting the same shot of pain he had felt earlier when Yui had tried moving it. Naoko was a bit more skilled, however, moving the arm and joints in a way that felt for their injury without overly stimulating the damaged areas. Yui's eyes lit up at the mention of healing magic, eager to witness and learn how to utilize the skill. Her enthusiasm crumbled in her chest once Naoko suggested the alternative, but the disappointment was short lived. She took the packet that Naoko extended out to her, half paying attention to what the woman said.

"Thank you," She smiled gratefully, turning her gaze upwards for a moment before her concentration fell right back on the packet in her hands. Ryuichi gave a solemn nod in thanks towards the woman, but remained silent. His eyes trailed after her figure as she walked below deck, still unsure of how to view her. Was it a kind once act, or was she really willing to put aside their clan of origin and blood?

"Gimme your arm," Yui said, gesturing forward with her fingers.

Ryuichi's brow furrowed, already doubting the extent to which she was listening to Naoko mere seconds before. "No, weren't you listening? We need water to add to it first," He shook his head at her impatience, but really, it made him glad to see Yui back to her easily intrigued self. After what they had both witnessed earlier in the day, seeing the horror and fear stricken across her face, he almost forgot what it was like to see her experience joy and curiosity. Her solemn testament to restore the Tiger Clan's name and image was a thought that worried him as well. He didn't want her bearing the brunt of the responsibility for Mimi's actions, no matter how closely they were related. The two of them had been away from the Tiger Clan for years, how could they have known that this was what lurked in the future? Hell, even if they did, what positions did either of them hold that would have had enough sway to stop it?

Once nagging one of the mingling crew members for water, Yui mixed together the herbal paste that Naoko had given them. With a small "oops" she dumped in too much water in the process, causing the paste to turn into more of a goop instead. She smiled wryly at Ryuichi, noting his visible disgust at the medicine she scooped up in her palm, watching the fragrant substance drip down through her fingers with a wet slap to rejoin the deteriorating mess in the bowl below. He let out a deep sigh, gesturing for her to go on and apply it. They were the last ones left from their group not sleeping yet, and the exhaustion had long since caught up to the two of them. Ryuichi didn't like the idea of separate men's and women's bunks. Although Aiko was kin to Yui, he couldn't bear the idea of trusting her enough to leave Yui's side when they'd both be in their most vulnerable state. He couldn't think of a reasonable excuse to stay with her in the women's bunk that wouldn't paint him as a pervert though, so he'd just have to stomach the restlessness that would overtake him once they were separated.

The medical paste was cold on his arm upon first application, but it had a medicated chillness to it as well, one that emanated deep into his skin and into his bones. Ryuichi was grateful to have something to calm down the aggravated jolts of pain that he felt throbbing in his arm. He looked down disapprovingly at the greyish green drip that ran down his arm and onto his clothes. Yui beamed at him, fully proud at her accomplishment of applying her first medical paste. It was a first, albeit messy, step into a new skill that she would work to develop.

A crew member lead the two of them below deck to the separate bunking areas, where Ryuichi reluctantly watched Yui split off from him in the opposite direction. He waited until she disappeared beyond the door safely before maneuvering towards the men's bunking, where he heard light sounds of sleeping. Ryuichi picked the closest bunk to the door that he could find, and laid down on top of the bed.

Yui tip toed into the womens' bunking area, choosing a bunk at random and slipping down into it, her mind racing through the events of the day. The innocent joy she had felt upon applying her first medical paste had faded away into a stoic realism. The Tiger Clan she had once knew, one she had grown up in and gleamed favorably in her mind with the glow of nostalgia, it was no more. Instead, what replaced it was the burning screams of agony and violence, the tearing apart of both lives and clans. She couldn't help the hopeless feeling that dominated her chest and made it ache in pain. Sure, it was easy to say in the moment that she would fight to restore the Tiger Clan name, but now, facing it head on? What a daunting and childish declaration to make. Yui laid on her back, staring at the ceiling as a tear dripped down the side of her cheek. Daunting as it was, she didn't have a choice did she? If she didn't restore the Tiger Clan, no one would, and she wasn't about to let that happen.

Interacts: Shadow Dancer

 

[InsaneAsylum]

Rivienne

It was the middle of the night, and a crescent moon sat high in the sky, only visible for moments between the dark clouds looming overhead. The sudden roar of thunder sparked the beginning of the storm that would test the sailing skill of those aboard the lone navy ship. Prisoners hurried back and forth across the deck, readying the ship for the bad weather. Anyone with any experience with storms at sea knew what was coming was a big one. The wind had suddenly stopped, but the pressure had dropped dramatically. One of the older men on the ship commented on his knees aching.

“I don’t care what kind of mage you are, why would the Rivienne Navy decide that you’re such an important prisoner that they need to keep you in a cage? You look like you’re a hundred years old!” General Morgan was below deck, still trying to get information out of the old man she discovered locked up below deck. It had been three days out at sea, and the old man had only talked about his granddaughter that he needed to get back to.

“Only a hundred? Oh, you kids these days are so kind! But what kind of mage I am is very important! However, I would say the word sage is a more fitting word of someone of my expertise. You’ll need my expertise very soon! Do you feel it? It goes deeper than the storm.” The old man replied with a cheesy grin.

The general groaned. “Quit talking like a geezer… you annoying old fart. I hate old people!” The general yelled this as she stomped away from the old man, who only cackled in response. The poor general was beyond frustrated with him.

Back above deck, the nobles would notice the wind beginning to pick up at a rapid pace. The waves began to get larger. Anyone who got seasick easily was throwing up now. A cloud covered the moon, darkening the night. The rebels lit lanterns, lighting up the deck. Between the yelling of commands, wind and thunder was all that could be heard that night.

Until a hell-like screech made its presence known. It started raining, and scraping noises could be heard coming from the side of the ship. One of the rebels slowly approached the railing, clutching his broadsword tightly. He managed to hide the fear on his face as he slowly peered over the side. A set of claws sliced across the man’s face, hooking deep into his flesh and flinging him into the sea as she screamed.

The claw grasped the railing and pulled the rest of the creature onto the ship. A misfigured humanoid of darkened rotten flesh crouched on the deck. It had long silver claws, four daggers capable of slicing deep. Its feet were clawed and splayed wide, with thin legs keeping it crouched down. It didn’t appear to have a mouth, but it had glowing purple eyes. It sprinted at the person nearest to it, slicing another fear stricken rebel with its mangled claws.

The other rebels above deck scrambled for their weapons, unsure whether to strike or flee. Without the general giving them orders, they were worthless. Some looked to the nearby nobles for orders, guidance, or something to help them figure out what the hell they should do. Thunder boomed, followed closely by another flash of lightning, illuminating the monstrosity in even more detail for a moment.

The Rivienne Noble’s days of rest were over.


----------

Feurey


The pirate’s ship spent three days at sea before docking in the middle of the night. The Feurey nobles bid Aiko and her crew farewell, but not before she gave them gifts. Sheridan was given a dark tome from the old Ventin Kingdom. It listed various symbols that could be drawn on objects for various effects. Runes allowed the user to use magical effects without using their own magic reserves. The only con was that the runes would have to be charged beforehand, and recharged if depleted. Hibiki was given a throwing knife that would alway return to whoever threw it. Knives like these were commonly used by the Rat Clan’s most skilled assassins. How Aiko got one is up for debate. Lastly, Yui was given a new katana. It had six light blue Ventin runes on the blade, three on each side. If Yui touched one of the runes, with the intent of activating it, the blade would awaken. Aiko explained that it would turn into a super cool ice sword that would freeze whatever it struck. While the effects were permanent, Aiko explained Yui could awaken the blade six times before she’d have to come back to have it recharged.

With that the nobles were sent off, taking a path through the jungle until they came upon a village at the base of a mountain the next day. There, they were supposed to find a man named Oro who could tell them about the Rat Clan’s whereabouts. However, finding the man would prove to be difficult, as there was a festival going, and the entire village was out today. Banners and decorations littered the walls and streets. The villagers all wore bright red or bright blue outfits, Crowds made it hard not to bump into anyone, but they seemed to gather in the center of the village.

“Welcome to the 40th annual Kigiki Festival! Today we celebrate the hero of our village, who sacrificed his life in order to seal away the terrible Black Dragon at the peak of the mountain! Without his sacrifice, who knows how much more pain and suffering the Land of Feurey would’ve had to endure.” An elderly man said from atop a stage erected in the village center. The crowd clapped in response, having fully gathered. “Now, let us enjoy a performance by the beautiful Sakura!”

On the stage Sakura pranced around the stage between jets of flames. She used her amazing acrobatics abilities to nimbly evade fire, all while maintaining a light hearted composure. The crowd cheered and clapped. Many were absolutely entrapped by her beauty. The dancer Sakura was well known throughout the Land of Feurey, and even in Rivienne. Being able to see her dance was a blessing. She wore a silky pink outfit, one that barely concealed what it was intended to cover. However, beneath that she wore tight wrappings of the same shade of pink.

However, a hooded man suddenly appeared next to the nobles. “If you want to see Oro, follow me,” was all the man said before walking away through the crowd. He led them out of the crowd, past a couple buildings and into a dirty alley. There were empty crates stacked there, with a gray cat lying atop them.

“Before any of you can meet Oro, you’ll all need to take off your shoes. Oro doesn’t like it when strangers track dirt in his home.” The man said this with his back turned to the nobles, his head turned towards the ground. “If you want information from him, you will have to do exactly as he says…”

 

[The Black Knight]

Locke was snug in a hammock when he became stirred by monstrous screams. His blue eyes cracked open, gazing up at the wooden ceiling of the ship. The back of his hand brushed some cooling drool from the corner of his mouth. “Darn it…and I was deep asleep too,” he grumbled. Now he couldn’t help but focus on the booming thunder, crashing waves, pelting rain, and screams of shipmates being murdered by some horrid monster on deck. He closed his eyes and laid there silently.

In the hammock ahead of him, Shaia poked out her head and asked, “Aren’t we going to do something about that?”

Hiro was staring up at the ceiling, wondering what sort of creature snuck aboard.

“We aren’t doing shit,” Locke declared. “I busted my bare ass helping them get this ship, and we didn’t get paid for it. If they want us to exterminate some monster, then I better see a bag of gold…” He made hand gestures to his crotch and even bucked in a lewd manner. “…fall into my lap!”

Dropping his arms, he dunked a hand down his pants and scratched himself as he yawned and squirmed onto his side. He tucked his face into the wall of his hammock and muttered, “I’m going to sleep.”

Shaia gazed up pathetically at the ceiling. How can you sleep with all that noise? she thought.

Hiro’s fox-like ears were swiveling like satellite dishes. He assured Shaia. “If it comes down here, I’ll be the first to know. Get some sleep.”

“Thank you Hiro.”
InsaneAsylum Arcanist King Crimson Takumi98

 

[Pepsionne]

Yui Akai | Ryuichi Kubo ​

The three days spent upon Aiko Akai’s ship were exactly as Yui had dreamt when she was younger. Maybe not as adventurous, but getting to know Aiko and listening to her tall tales about her adventures and time spent in the Tiger Clan were enough excitement in Yui’s eyes. She had listened to every word her aunt said with rapt attention, the most she’s paid attention to anyone else in her life, save Mimi.

Her eyes were like a little kid on Christmas morning once Aiko announced she had parting gifts for the three nobles who had made it onto her ship. The announcement was enough to fight the disappointment of having to part with Aiko so soon. Yui watched the other two nobles receive their gifts, her hands fidgeting nervously with excitement and impatience as she listened to Aiko explain the properties. When it came time for her gift, Yui could barely stand still. Ryuichi winced inwardly when Aiko explained the gift to Yui. A limited amount of runes that would freeze anything it touched--such a precarious gift was not the best idea for Yui, of all people. He could already see the scene flashing before him, Yui would turn deaf ears to him as she ran off to “test” how the runes work, claiming she’d rather know now than have to learn in the midst of battle. One thing would lead to another and she’d either freeze herself or some other important thing around them. He sighed. Now that the katana rested in her hands, her glittering eyes concentrated on Aiko as she explained how to use it, there would be no taking it away. Yui would probably sleep with the thing by her side.

Then it was time to say goodbye. Yui was reluctant to leave her aunt’s side, having just become accustomed to the woman’s presence and itching to learn more about her story and the reasons why she left the Tiger Clan for good. But the rest of their journey did not lie with Aiko. There were people counting on them, people they needed to save. So Yui pressed onwards with the group of nobles through the jungle, ignoring the stabbing pain at having been separated from someone she had longed her whole life to meet.

Ryuichi’s lips pressed together in a hardened line once they approached the entrance of the village. It was bustling with people, all dressed in bright dashes of blue or red, lighting up the natural hued landscape around them into explosions of color. Their small group stood out far too much for his liking. Yui’s eyes turned down into the village at the booming voice of an elderly man who greeted the milling crowd of color below him.

“Kigiki festival,” She said lowly to herself. The idea of slaying a huge dark dragon known for tormenting the village excited her, her eyes igniting into the familiar mischievous sparkle Ryuichi feared to see. She tugged gleefully on Ryuichi’s sleeve, the man dipping sideways at the sudden force. He shot her a dirty look, but even his stoic face lit up into a gleeful expression upon seeing who Yui had pointed out to him. It was the dancer Sakura, known for her beautiful dancing and entertainment. They could use a blessing right now, and seeing her dance sure as hell felt like one.

Yui’s eyes snapped to the side, her hand already placed on the hilt of her katana when a man appeared beside them. He spoke to them quickly, claiming that they ought to follow him if they wanted to see Oro, the person of interest for their small group. Yui looked towards Ryuichi tentatively. It seemed too convenient, but then again, they did stand out somewhat atrociously. Oro was expecting a group of nobles arriving from outside the village, who else would they be besides the group that had just arrived in town, the only ones not dressed and celebrating the festival?

Yui shrugged and turned to follow the man before he could disappear into the swarming crowds of red and blue. Ryuichi was hot on her heels, gesturing for the other nobles to follow them if they so wished. The commute to Oro’s hideout was relatively short, landing them in a run down, tight alley behind one of the buildings. The ambient noise of milling people and distant music permeated the otherwise silent air around them. Yui smiled at the grey cat that stared at them lazily, its tail swishing in short, aggravated swipes at having been intruded. She outstretched a finger at the cat, earning several short sniffs before the cat turned its head away, disinterested.

She looked down at her shoes at the man's mention of Oro's particularity with guests, only to see that they were in--less than ideal condition after having trekked through the jungle once more. The boots still sported streaks of mud from the last jungle adventure the group had survived. She nodded quickly to the mysterious man, reaching down readily to pull off her shoes in order to step inside. The idea of doing exactly what this Oro said didn’t really alight her with excitement. A rumble of discontent was growing in her chest, a feeling that Ryuichi was already beginning to pick up on. Yui and following rules without question were not a good combo. He hoped whatever this Oro wanted, it was something she could stomach.

 

[Misuteeku]

Sheridan Sasaki
​

Sheridan threw up over the hull and quickly wiped her mouth with a napkin that she received from the pirates. The last three days were an absolute nightmare for Sheridan. She had never been out on a cruise before, and she would definitely not taking another cruise for the rest of her life. The way the waves bushed against the boat made her want to vomit. Motion sickness, or whatever they called it, was one of the worst experiences she had ever faced. Wiping up the tears that started to slip out of her eye, she let out a yawn before laying her head on the wooden rails.

The now-deceased Ventin arts were always a part of the problem but in a good way. After receiving the book from Aiko, Sheridan began to study the spellcraft of the fallen kingdom. While she had a high aptitude for learning magic, it was all limited by her time and the environment she was given. On the rocking ship, Sheridan couldn't think clearly of a better application of the magical arts. Along with constructing her new puppet, learning a new type of magical art would be strenuous. She only learned the basic and applied them to her puppet to make more deadly in combat. While she had technically scribbled the same rune over the entirety of its elongated, wooden body, she thought of herself as a genius. After all, it wasn't like there were many Venetian mages left in the world.

She shook when the ship was docked at a port. Steadying herself, she looked down to see a jungle. "At least it isn't a swamp," Sheridan muttered.

Surprisingly, they encountered nothing on their trip to the village. It was nothing like the hellish swamp they had the traverse through, and for that, Sheridan would like to have given a prayer if only she were faithful. The village itself seemed like they were celebrating. Something about a hero dying to a dragon? Sheridan wasn't paying attention as she was more interested in the festival's activities. So many people were wearing brightly colored clothing, and the bright fires made her want to cover her eyes. However, there was something to it that attracted her to it. Was it the woman who danced for the crowd? Was it the multiple stalls that had fun games in them? Or was it the laughter that the people seemed to let out carelessly?

Her attention was caught when Yui's sheath had almost hit her as she was standing right next to the samurai girl. Sheridan had ducked underneath it and turned to look what had caught Yui's attention. A suspicious man had appeared and offered to guide them to where Oro awaited. Following the man, Sheridan felt apprehensive about this man. While Sheridan had the same apprehension as her fellow allies, she began to take off her shoes.

The Rat Clan was known for being an organization of spies, and if Oro were associated with them, she would expect the same behavior. She would assume there would be multiple spies worldwide that gathered the information for the Rat Clan, but how was always a mystery. Perhaps their ninja would know a lot more about Oro or how the Rat Clan functioned, but this was the only lead they had at the moment.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

The three days on Aiko's ship quickly passed with Hibiki and Seiichi sparring regularly with each other or even some of crewmates that had the time to spare. The results came about as a close win for Hibiki of twenty to seventeen. All the while Naoko read a book about common ship based afflictions and their remedies making the time pass quickly when she wasn't helping in the kitchen or healing the more severe bruises the boys earned during their roughhousing.

When the ship docked Aiko gave each of them a parting gift. A rune book for the puppet master, a magic Katana for the Tiger Samurai of which Seiichi eyed with some mild envy, and for Hibiki a throwing knight that would return to him after he threw it. Meaning less pulling knives out of bodies after a fight or loosing them to unfortunate circumstances. Hibiki put the knife on the bandolier wrapped around his chest before thanking Aiko and walking following after the rest of the group.

As the group made the trip through the jungle Hibiki didn't hesitate to practice throwing his new knife at any unfortunate small creature he spotted leading to a trail of corpses that many predators didn't hesitate to clean up. All the while Hibiki could barely hold his excitement at the idea that the Tiger clan's purge was not as through as he once feared. Upon reaching the town Hibiki's group couldn't help but notice the decorations hung everywhere along with the townsfolk wearing bright red or blue chatting among themselves, vendors hawking trinkets ranging from colored jewelry to figurines of a young man holding a sword and a black dragon all in different poses and the expensive ones even had moveable limbs.

Hibiki looked around in wonder never having had a chance to see a festival before Hibiki was pulled away by the excitement when Seiichi nudged him while smiling. They made their way to the town center where a elderly man shouted atop of a stage announcing the official start of this Kigiki Festival and a performance by the Sakura.

All of the group had heard of her, and all that was said about her did not do reality justice Hibiki and Seiichi were almost instantly captivated by the performance and would have stood there for hours if a hooded man hadn't woke them from their trance and reminded them of the reason they were there. They followed after the stranger as he wound through the various alleyways all the while Hibiki couldn't help but feel Naoko stare daggers into the back of his head during the entire trip.

When the group arrived at their destination Hibiki could feel his heart speed up as he thought about the fact that they were not the only survivors. The trio took their footwear off and left it outside the door before entering the building.

 

[Takumi98]

Vivian Grivois | Lyari Morcant | Ashe Starvos



As the storm began, Vivian released a sigh that was lost to the wind. She was starting to dislike water, she was sure. From the bottom of an oasis to the rocky waves here made her stomach clench painfully, and Lyari retching on the side of the ship didn't help. Though she was glad Ashe was keeping a hand on Lyari's back so she wouldn't go overboard, and was even kind enough to keep her hair from her face.


It seemed that their respite would end here, as an ungodly shriek sounded in the air, followed by the death of one of their allies and a disgusting mass of rotting flesh pulled itself aboard. Vivian's eyes widened at the sight of this creature from the watery depths, causing her hand to grip the hilt of her own sword before noticing that many on deck had their eyes on her and her companions above deck for leadership while Morgan was below deck.


The first thing that came to mind was that due to the sudden downpour and heavy winds, Ashe wouldn't have the easiest time to attack from a distance with his bow. Her blue green eyes landed on Lyari, who was tightly clutching her staff and gripping onto her own tome in preparation of possibly having to use it, her mouth moving yet Vivian herself couldn't hear what her companion was saying. She was sure, however, that Lyari was preparing to go on the offensive despite being reluctant to open her tome in such a downpour, which she wouldn't hold against her friend. Yet even so they had to figure something out fast. Though, she wondered briefly if Lady Clarabella would have a better chance at harming it from a distance, even in this awful weather? Or that Lanthane had anything on his person that could help with as little collateral damage to the ship and their allies?


It had long limbs and sharp claws, and seemed rather fast. Most had close range weapons on them, so hitting it without risk of injury or death seemed very slim. Muttering a prayer that was hopefully heard, she unsheathed her sword and held at the ready in case she needed to defend herself. If only she had offensive and healing magic to aid her in a time like this, then they may have had a slightly better chance of her helping outside of healing the injured. It seemed to also have no problem seeing in this weather, unless proven otherwise. They simply didn't know enough about this creature to properly handle it.


"Try and keep out of it's range unless you absolutely have to engage it up close, then if possible go for it's legs or eyes." The Princess spoke to their misfit crew, hoping that they could hold out until Morgan returned and that Morgan herself would have a better idea of how to help.


InsaneAsylum Arcanist The Black Knight King Crimson Orikanyo