Fantasy Code FERAL

[SilverFlight]

Duik shut his eyes tight as the stage lighting came on at full force, the lenses dowsing everything in a rainbow of colour.


Alec caught sight of Zoe running towards them with Barry. Good, two more.


"Weapons up everyone," He cautioned. The beast was playing it safe for now, but he guessed it would only be until it found an opening to exploit.


"We've got bigger problems than an extremity wound." He told her, not taking his eyes from his surroundings. "This thing wants us dead."


He heard Laohu's voice and affirmed that he was fine. "I think we have minor injuries for now. Maia, you're the one who had the table tossed on you, how are you doing?"


Just then a blast of light cut through the darkness, emanating from the stage. Alec grinned. "Duik!"


Over the comm he could hear the hyena's high pitched giggle; "And Jimbo Bruh! We got your backs!"


Alec heard Simon shouting over the intercom.


Not long after that Alec heard more footsteps and saw Xiao coming toward them. He let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. She was safe.


"Xiao...you look ok, are you though?" He asked attentively. As Xiao revealed the identity of the mystery creature Alec couldn't help but be amazed. A legend come to life...


Raven's idea was a good one, he nodded to her in acknowledgement. "Lets get into formation!" he called, "Anyone who can hold a weapon, get one and stand in the outer circle, wounded in the back!"


Just then he heard Simon over the comm. He answered quickly: "We do, its a mythic, and it hates noise and light!" Alec had put the communication feed to everyone. Duik heard it loud and clear.


"The Mixer! Its still connected to the speakers! We just got them back up!" He said this over the comm but nodded to Jimbo right beside him.


The Nian was as startled as Beth when the lights appeared. Darkness still reigned around the corner in the casino, but the creature made not move to go there, instead it roared, staring Beth down with furious eyes.


The noise was enough to draw attention to it and when Alec saw the beast he cursed. It was huge, at least the size of a horse, with limbs like tree trunks, a plated face and back and two hairy, bat wings jutting out from its broad shoulders. It had the rough build of a lion, with a shaggy mane the colour of blood. Two large horns sloped back from its brow.

Spoiler

Like lightning the Nian struck out at Beth with a great paw before dodging back and sliding behind decorative wall that separated the entrance way from the lounge where the group was gathered. Now that the lights were on (at least by the stage) Alec hoped the beast would give up and leave.


Duik had heard it. The thing hated noise. So all he had to do was get the mixer going. But the machine was in the middle of the stage, right out in the open, and was at least 20 meters away. He could see the switch he needed to push, but if that thing saw him...Just then he caught sight of it. The Nian had dodged to the entrance way, but what he hadn't seen was the hall behind the lounge that ran along the inner edge of the building. It was separated from the lounge by frosted glass and the nian...had crept up right next to his friends.


"Guys! Lookout!!" He yelled, just as there was an explosion of glass from behind the group and the creature leapt through, teeth bared.


"Everyone move!" Alec shouted, pushing those within his reach (Xiao, Raven and Leandra) out of the way.


A table collapsed into splinters as the beast landed on it, turning to face its prey.


It was now. Duik had to run now. He took a breath and waited just a moment longer before making a break for the mixer.


The nian turned and caught the movement out of the corner of one eye and suddenly it gave a screech and hurled itself toward the stage.


Alec scrambled up only to see the beast take off...straight at...


"DUIK!!" He yelled as panic near stunned him.


The hyena was a pace away, then he was at the controls and jammed his paw on the button that played his mix. He had seen the creature and almost without pause he carried on across the stage, dashing for the safety of the equipment behind the set. As the music blasted through the silence the nian gritted its teeth, It was on the stage now, but affected by the sound. It crashed head first into the light rigging, sending the entire thing careening onto the stage.


Duik yelped as both he and the monster were engulfed by the wreckage.


"NOO!" Alec cried, and was on his feet in an instant, running as hard as he could to the stage, nothing else in his mind but getting to his partner. Fear froze his heart. He had to get Duik. He was ok...he had to be!


The pile of ruined equipment convulsed and slowly the nian was able to pull itself free. It was the only thing that emerged.


All of Alec's survival instincts screamed at him to stop, and as the creature turned to face him he slowed. Fear and rage building up in him to the breaking point.


The nian was having trouble now. The light and noise was slowly overwhelming it. It just needed one final push to drive it away.


@TheBOOKWORMgal @andujarprime @Lioness075 ((Y'all are going to have to dig a little for bits relevant to your characters So much could apply to so many I'm not going to tag individually.))

 

[Lioness075]

While helping Ash usher out the civilians, both injured and uninjured, Luness could hear a group gathering near the bar. Good, hopefully they could corral this beast and end this chaos.


Suddenly, the lights came back on, though Luness had no problem adjusting her eyes to them considering one of her main attacks involved blinding those near or looking at her.


Looking towards the bar area, Luness noticed Leandra amongst them and instantly felt anxious to join her now that there was a danger to everyone present.


Once the last civilian exited, Luness said to Ash, "I need to rejoin Lea and you need to follow me!"


Flying away from Ash, Luness soon landed on Leandra's shoulder while the terrified girl continued to stare at the Nian before the team.


Seeing the Nian now, Luness' eyes widened and she let out a startled shriek, even fluffed up her feathers a bit, when the Nian was seemingly gone in a flash after she consequently fell to the ground when Alec tackled Leandra along with a few others to safety.


Scrambling, as awkwardly as any bird could in the moment, to her talons, Luness then hopped over to the dazed Leandra, who was just now slowly pushing herself up into a sitting position.


"Come on, dear! We need to move!"


"R-right."


Quickly standing back up, Leandra glanced about the area in time to see the Nian now chasing after Duik on the stage. Oh no.


Just before either Luness or Leandra could do or say anything, the Nian charged into the lighting fixture and it came crashing down on top of both the Nian and Duik.


Gasping and moving one of her hands to her mouth, Leandra's eyes almost immediately began to water, as she watched Alec sprint towards the wreckage while calling out Duik's name. No, no, no. This couldn't be happening.


While Leandra froze up, Luness let out an angered shriek and took flight, knowing that Leandra was, at least, safe for the moment.


Landing on the stage behind the Nian, which was currently focused on Alec, Luness then fluffed herself up before abruptly flying at the Nian and pecking at its hindquarters to draw its attention away from Alec.


Flying back to the end of the stage once more, Luness landed again and faced the Nian, hoping he'd look her way. She planned to do her unique flash attack in hopes of scaring it away, but she needed its attention on her, not Alec.


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore

 

[Kharmin]

Raven/Kitsune


The reunion between Raven and Kitsune was cut short as the lights bathed the area. Water from the sprinklers spat and hissed where it hit the high temperature fresnel lamps and threatened to short out the electrical current. Raven blinked once to clear the stream of water from her eyes as she regarded the creature.


Kitsune froze in place and his hackles raised as a low growl emanated from his chest. This was the rogue that was causing such injury and misery and this was the thing that they now had to eliminate.


With a free hand, Raven swept her plastered hair out of her face and drew the smaller 9mm from the concealed shoulder holster. With a gun in each hand, her confidence grew in the face of the danger that was no longer shrouded amidst darkness and panicked screams.


Before she could bring her guns to bear, the thing fled behind the decorative glass wall. She relied on the others to take their positions as she took a stance and waited for the thing – the nian – to make its next move. "Get clear, fox," she hissed at Kitsune, but the companion ignored her.


"Not happening, Captain," he replied as he kept his eyes fixed on the silhouette behind the opaque wall. "Carl von Clausewitz said 'Courage, above all things, is the first quality of a warrior'. I'm staying, Captain."


Raven had to admire the small vulpes heart, even if it meant that they might all die in this place. Her lips pressed firm and held back a rebuke; if they survived this, then there would be time to lecture him on the appropriate times for courage. Now, they had bigger things on their plate.


Suddenly, the nian crashed through the glass. Alec haphazardly knocked them aside just as Raven had drawn a bead on one of the thing's eyes. Her breath was knocked from her by his impact, but she still managed to roll with the momentum and come to a knee with both pistols still in her sprinkler-saturated grip.


"Dammit!" she swore, and squeezed off a shot from the 9mm. Whether or not it hit wasn't immediately apparent as the thing tore after Duik's dash to the stage. Three rapid shots from Raven's larger .357 followed in succession, but didn't deter the nian.


Kitsune shot like a sopping wet ball of red fur toward the stage and skidded to a halt between Duik and the nian which had become entangled in the stage's rigging. Hackles high, the fox growled as large as he could as he bared small, but very pointed teeth at the beast.


Raven emptied both pistols into the nian, holstered the irrelevant 9mm and tore a reload clip from the hidden pocket in her coat. "Kitsune, what are you doing?" she yelled as the others started to converge on the stage.

 

[Flutterby]

​

Spoiler

Dress:

Hair:

Eyes:

Beth's hair was dyed to a shade of brown and pulled back into a complicated style she will never even try to replicate. She's wearing a red and white dress with red heels, and a dramatic rose gold eye look with bright red lipstick to match her dress.



Beth didnt make it to the group. The roar from Nian scared the living hell out of her and she scrambled to change direction away from them. She could feel its fury-filled gaze on her, and she didnt want the team to be taken down with her. There had to be someone around to save her, right?


Totus watched Beth switch direction, but he felt the rush of air and knew it was too late. The force of the flying paw sent him higher and away from Beth, much to his dismay. When he got control of his flight and turned to look for her, she was no longer standing there.


Beth saw the paw coming and felt the floor disappear from under her feet. She squeezed her eyes shut, and reminded herself that a tense body meant more injuries. She flew back toward the darkened casino area, coming to a stop only when her lower half hit a decorative half-wall. The edge hit in the middle of her spine, jarring and bending it painfully. Falling to the floor added a nice bump on her head. She laid face down for what felt like forever, testing her body from toes up. Everything seemed to be intact, but her ribcage hurt worse than hell and she would have bruises front and back and nice goose egg. She knew how lucky she was that it had been a paw and not the claws.


Totus rushed to her side, landing on the floor and letting out a series of high pitched churrs, too concerned for words. She flopped a hand at him with a groan and began to push herself up slowly as she looked around for the gun that had been in her hand. That would be useful right now.


"Beth, stop moving, you could be hurt!" Totus snapped suddenly, receiving a stratled look from her.


"Im fine, help me find the gun. Have to stop that thing." Beth mumbled, casting her dazed eyes about.


Totus visibly bristled, his sodden feathers puffing, and he looked about ready to explode, when music blasted suddenly through the speakers. They both looked, just in time to see the stage collapse on top of Duik and the monster. Totus knew there would be no arguing now. If people were lost or buried, Beth would never stop. Even if there was a giant mythic beast still standing in the way.


@SilverFlight @everyone

 

[Epiphany]

Maia Asim


@SilverFlight


The agent squirmed under the table, struggling frantically to pull free. Two shots rang out above her, though, and she heaved a sigh of relief. At least there were other agents in play. She might live through this yet.


Then Alec hauled the table off of her. She scrambled to her feet immediately, huffing once or twice as she caught her breath from having it squeezed out of her by the heavy table. Nodding her thanks, she gave the other agent a longer look of appraisal. Level-headed, swift to act and he'd probably saved her life? What a nice partner. The Watch's agents weren't always so capable.


"No idea what this monster is," she said when Alec asked for opinions on what it might be. "Tough and likes the shadows, it does. Best we stick together. Focused fire might do it where lone wolf shenanigans won't."


She nodded approvingly when Alec proposed she, Rin and Raven join up with other teams.


@DawnAntalios


"Good bit of triage there, yeah?" Maia said, grinning a bit as the other woman fussed over the wounded agent. "That did go a bit sideways but no harm done." She winced slightly at the cuts across her side where the glass shards had penetrated her dress. "Well, mostly no harm done anyway. Nothing that won't mend."


She gave Barry a critical look. "Right. Is he mobile? Because with that whatever, we're safest together. More safe if he's armed. You too, come to think of it."


When Eos pulled up, Ahmose sniffed once and said "Something very strong and skillful, that is all I can say. I didn't get a good look at it. Whatever it is, it took several bullets and my claws without slowing. I believe the Watch is going to track it down and put it down before it harms anyone else." The snow leopard's tone turned light as she added, "Care to join us?"


@Bolts


Noticing Barry's glance, Maia just shrugged a little as if to say 'no harm done'. She did give him a thumb's up, though, and said "Was that you with the bottles on the floor? Good quick thinking, that. If we're lucky, it'll help leave a trail our companions can follow. Keep those wits about you, lad, and we'll make it through yet!"


@Lioness075


Despite the dark, Maia nodded along to the other woman's debriefing of how her team's mission had gone. "Right. At least you got the tablet. Nice work!" she said, her voice cheerful with praise for the friendly girl she'd met outside the club.


Then the other agent produced a flashlight, saw Barry's wound and went to work on treating it. A medic then? Well, that could be handy after this night's work was done. Maia brushed the remnants of glass from her dress and made a note to have someone check her out later. After the rogue was stopped.


@crucialstar


Maia was silent for a long moment, digesting Xiao's explanation on the Nian. Then she chuckled and said "Glad I wore red then!"


"Now, noise is all well and good for scaring it off but where will it run off to if we do? It's attacked and killed people already. Better we put it down, now, before risking the lives of more civilians it might maul on its way to wherever. I say we hunt after it. Besides, some of us at least have guns. Those make plenty of noise if push comes to shove."


@Kharmin


At the other agent's suggestion on a perimeter, Maia gave it a thought and slowly shook her head. "A perimeter's well and good when holding a location or assaulting a location. But this critter's mobile. Though good idea about spacing out those of us with guns. Those without, find a phone or torch or whatever you've got so we can see, yeah? Give us some line of sight. Once we see it, good idea that. Drive it into a corner and put it down, the quicker the better."


@SilverFlight @Kharmin


At Alec's question, Maia shook her head and gave him a cocky smile. "I'm right as rain, Alec. I've had worse getting out of the loo. Well, this one loo anyway. There was a lot of water at the time and the matter of a broken wall but never mind that."


Then the lights came on and the action started. Witnessing the Nian's destruction of the stage area despite the brightness of the lighting and the noise of the speakers, she shook her head at the spectacle of it. And cringed when she saw the hyena go down and not get up again. A sliver of fear shot up her spine. That could be her someday, or Ahmose. Of course, if she died first, Ahmose would forget who she was, who she'd become. Whereas if the snow leopard died, Maia would still carry the memory of losing her best and dearest friend.


Hard to say which would be worse in that situation. Maybe it didn't need to be said. Plenty of bad to go around.


Then Raven unloaded the full magazines of two pistols into the legendary, mythical beast. Shrugging, Maia aimed her pistol and did the same. It was slow enough, disoriented, that she took her time to line up each shot and make it count. And when the last bullet cleared the chamber, she fished into her purse for another magazine.


No sense in taking chances.

 

[Bolts]

Barry stood up only to jump out of the way while shoving Zoe out of the threats path. The Nian had split a table in two, he didn't want to know the feeling. The beast was angry. At them perhaps more than the people who had fled since it was having a much harder time dealing with all the agents. OH God! That thing is freaky! BB said while zipping around avoiding the threat as best she could. Come on Barry! Get up. He got up slowly while extending a hand to Zoe. It wasn't a good idea to be sitting down for long. [Is it too much to ask for this thing to be a little freaked out by the color of the blood?] Barry thought to himself a little annoyed on where his mind had went. There were a few bodies here and there and some blood splatter from small injures. Maybe that is why it kept to the darkness? To avoid light?


Barry's eyes had caught Duik making a run for the set while the beast was distracted. A grin formed. The animal had skill there was no denying that. That grin didn't last for even a second. The roar from the Nian had blasted it off as Barry watched in fear as it bolted towards Duik. By instinct, Barry tried to yell out to him but noting came. It didn't matter though since Alec's voice triumphed all. He watched as the set fell on both of them. [No way..] Was all his mind could say. GET A GRIP! BB said, smacking into his face. It's not over. They still need help. Barry shook his head fast to regain his thoughts. She was right. It was still up but hurt. It just needed a little more. Barry saw the Phoenix starting to glow brighter as it closed the distance. Barry turned to BB. Yell. He signed to her.


BB looked at Barry for a moment, but gathered what he meant. Xiao had mentioned it hated sound and light. If there was two things she could do better than most anyone, it was zip close to people, and be loud. She eyed the Phoenix. For some reason, she didn't get a strange feeling of fear from her. That was a topic for another time. As quick as she could, she zoomed over to the beast. She got ready for Luness to do her glowing thing. It would be a double whammy of sensory overload!





@SilverFlight @Lioness075 @DawnAntalios @others

 

[DawnAntalios]

Chaos. Battle. Confusion. These were the words which could describe the situation they had gotten into. Zoe had already troubles with concentrating on the fight in the twilight but when she saw some of the illumination getting turned on she sighed in relief - at least they needed not to fight in the darkness any more, they could finally face the creature that terrorized everyone in the club.


" This should be our chance! " she exclaimed, seeing how everyone was ready to fight.


Eos nodded as he listened to Maia and Ahmose.


" So our opponent is very tough then. " he mused " This will not be an easy battle. I am glad you are with us. " he said smiling at the two of them but Zoe just frowned.


" Of course it would not be, but I will...! " she jumped up, pointing at the best - but the moment she rose from their hiding spot her voice was cut short. Eos did not yet understand her behavior and knew not what was going on so he decided to rise from their shelter... and when he did so and spotted the Nian his eyes widened in fear as well...


" Oh no... " he whispered, looking at Zoe with a terrified expression. " Not again! Zoe! "


" It... it... " she whispered, her face turning pale, her body starting to shiver. She stared at the massive monstrosity but then she quickly shook her head. " Nevermind me, it is nothing. " she turned to Eos " I do not have my bow with me, I did not expect such a direct confrontation. I will stay behind and try to figure out something. "


She looked around as many of them were trying to figure out something to fight the Nian. Frankly she felt at a loss and she was unable to think anything productive she could help the others with. Slumming into her thoughts she murmured.


" Perhaps I could approach it from the flank... or maybe... " she could not finish her sentence because she felt Barry pushing her away, knocking her off from her feet. Surprised and angry she turned to the boy and looked at him angrily.


" What are you doing? I was... " she watched as the claw of the beast smashed the table next to them, the exact spot where they were just a few moments ago. Her expression turned from angry to grateful then quickly to serious.


" Oh... I... thanks. " she mumbled as she heard Eos' voice thunder through the loud torrent of sounds.


" Snap her out of it! " he demanded, his voice trying to pierce the rumble " She is getting lost in overcomplicating things, bring her to her senses! I will join the others in the charge. "


" I can hear you, you ball of fur! " she glared at him angrily but was thankful nonetheless for the intervention. " I need to find a better way to help everyone... " she muttered to herself as she watched Eos sneak away.


With that the stag dashed off towards the birds. Initially he wanted to join in to empower the discordant waves of sound but he realized that his voice was not nearly as strong as to contribute to the sensory assault they were to unleash. Instead, he lowered his head, preparing his massive antlers for a charge. When the birds unleashed their powers the elder stag roared in rage, charging headlong into the jaws of danger. He cared not for his well being - he wanted to rush at his foe, possibly staggering it for long enough to be able to be neutralized.


@SilverFlight @Bolts @Epiphany @Lioness075 @everyone

 

[Lioness075]

As the Nian made its move, Manjano instinctively ducked for cover, Falarion scrambling after him in a near panic.


Just as the pair got behind cover, the Nian made its first attack and Beth was sent flying.


Manjano had peeked out from his cover in time to see her get hit and his eyes widened upon seeing her landing. Shit.


As Beth collapsed face first on the ground, Manjano and Falarion sprinted together to her, quickly joining Totus' concerned side.


Kneeling down beside Beth, who seemed to already be struggling back to her feet to rejoin the fight, Manjano frowned and carefully placed his hands on her shoulders so he could push her back down slowly. Just enough to keep her from going no where, hopefully not too much so as to cause her more pain.


As chaos ensued around them, mostly at the stage, Manjano focused on Beth instead, as he shook his head at her mention of finding her gun. She was in no condition to try and attack the Nian of all things right now.


Falarion then quickly spoke up in order to help Manjano voice his thoughts, "Beth, you're in no condition to take on anything right now, especially the Nian."


Furrowing his brows, Manjano looked over Beth to see what visible injuries there were, but was having a hard time finding any obvious ones. At least she wasn't bleeding.


Hearing Alec's cries for Duik, Falarion perked up and then whimpered when the lighting fixture fell on top of both Duik and the Nian.


Exchanging a look with Manjano, Falarion then sprinted away from the group, as he made his way to the stage and soon skidded to a halt at Alec's side.


Growling at the Nian, Falarion raised his hackles and then let out a snarl while keeping protectively close to Alec's side. They needed to get Duik out of the rubble before whatever injuries he'd sustained got worse. Or he got worse...but the Nian could possibly attack them if they tried to get to the rubble right now.


@SilverFlight @Flutterby

 

[Flutterby]

​

Spoiler

Dress:

Hair:

Eyes:

Beth's hair was dyed to a shade of brown and pulled back into a complicated style she will never even try to replicate. She's wearing a red and white dress with red heels, and a dramatic rose gold eye look with bright red lipstick to match her dress.



Beth's hands slipped on the floor, and she realized she was so scared her palms were slick with sweat. She grunted, and made another effort to push herself up, but she was stilled by a pair of hands on her shoulder. She looked up, startled to find Manjano at her side. It was obvious that he wanted her to stay down, and Falarion voiced that opinion, but Beth shook her head as well.


Totus glowered from next to Manjano, and gave himself a shake. "Its not the Nian she wants to go after." He said in a flat tone. "Duik is buried under the rubble. Right now, she's feeling like its her responsibility to dig him out, as trained search and rescue personnel." He glanced around him, seeing Beth's gun laying on the floor about 10 feet away, but made no move to go get it. If he had his way, she would lay on her back on that section of floor until someone with a degree could look at her. But his heart was sinking quickly, because he could see from the look in her eyes, that even though she was dazed and in pain, she was going to help Duik.


Beth looked at Totus harshly. "Its your responsibility too, owl." Her tone was like glass, and she punctuated the end of her sentence by spitting pink-tinged saliva onto the floor. So much for lady-like; she had bit her cheek and hated that taste.


Totus's glare sharpened as he watched her brush Manjano off and push herself up into a crouch. He took a good look at her, noting that her hair was still held tightly despite the flight through the air.


"You need shoes before you even try it." He snapped, and Beth looked down at her feet in surprise. Sure enough, her feet were bare. She looked across the room, and found a lonely pair of red heels, one tipped onto its side, sitting where she had been when the Nian hit her.


The damn thing knocked me out of my shoes.. Beth swallowed, and wondered where she had left the little clutch she had been carrying. She had hidden a pair of shoes in it, the ones she hiked in these days. It would be a bad idea to go scrambling over the bent and twisted metal of the set without something on her feet, and they both knew it.


"Then go get them." Beth hissed through clenched teeth, getting more angry with him by the second. Totus held her gaze for a moment, then relented and flew away.


The entire exchange only took a few seconds, and then Beth looked at Manjano. "Either you help me up, or I get up myself. You choose, but dont even try to stop me." Her green eyes flashed fiercely in the spinning lighting from the stage, and not even the screaming pain in her back kept her from trying to rise to her feet, as Totus found her clutch in the lounge and started back toward her.


@Lioness075

 

[Lioness075]

Shifting his attention to Totus to listen to his explanation, realization dawned on Manjano and he looked back at Beth with a frown. She was still in no condition to help right now. Injuring herself further would only hurt the team, not help it or anyone in particular.


Hearing Beth's response made Manjano flinch and he furrowed his brows at her before saying, "Beth, you're injured. Push yourself more, and you'll only hurt yourself and the team."


When Beth brushed him off of her, Manjano held up his hands in a defensive manner and then stood up before watching her move into a crouch. This was a bad idea.


Listening to the two fighting with one another very quickly made Manjano feel uncomfortable, but he couldn't bring himself to walk away from Beth.


Shaking his head in a disapproving manner, Manjano then offered a hand to Beth before muttering, "You can't even move any rubble, this is a bad idea, Beth."


@Flutterby

 

[Flutterby]

​

Spoiler

Dress:

Hair:

Eyes:

Beth's hair was dyed to a shade of brown and pulled back into a complicated style she will never even try to replicate. She's wearing a red and white dress with red heels, and a dramatic rose gold eye look with bright red lipstick to match her dress.



Beth took the offered hand, but she gave him a good glare while she did. "And if it were Falarion underneath that rubble, possibly dying?" She knew as soon as she said it that it was unfair. But every case she had ever been on in Seattle, there had been someone panicking at the idea of their loved one being lost forever. It had been her driving force even then, and this was much more personal. "Theres more to getting someone out than digging and lifting. The whole thing could collapse if the wrong thing is moved."


Beth got her feet under her, and took a moment with her hands on her knees before standing fully. Her back was on fire, but after a few deep breaths she was able to ignore it enough to stand. When she did, her eyes raised to meet Manjano's, not even realizing they were standing rather close to one another.


"You can visit me in the hospital wing after. But Im doing this." As she said it, Totus returned with her clutch and she opened it and began putting on the pair of shoes she had concealed in it. They were peculiar, to say the least, but they were her favorite for when she needed to feel more balanced (like after walking on skyscrapers).

It took a good minute, but once they were on, Beth was ready. Totus grimaced at her, and took a few steps back when she looked at him for confirmation. Beth hesitated, but her face softened for a moment and Totus saw how desperately she wanted to help Duik and the others. He relented, and gave a nod. He hopped forward to the gun, and picked it up with his talons so Beth woundl't have to bend to get it. Once it was in her hand, she started to walk forward carefully. Totus looked at Manjano, and sighed. "Im not stubborn enough to protect her like I should." He admitted, and then followed after her, right back into the frying pan.


@Lioness075

 

[Lioness075]

Manjano scowled at Beth when she glared at him and then asked if it were Falarion under the rubble instead. If he had been, then this would've been an entirely different scenario because Manjano wouldn't have even been over here helping Beth. He'd be in Alec's position instead.


Sighing when Beth further explained the process, Manjano simply crossed his arms over his chest and waited, knowing they were probably about to head out.


When Beth met his gaze again, Manjano blinked, as he realized just how close Beth was to him now that she was standing. Without a second thought about it, Manjano took a step back from her.


Not too long after doing so, Totus returned and Beth retrieved her shoes before also retrieving her gun.


Listening to Beth, Manjano simply shook his head. This was getting rather ridiculous, but he wasn't going to leave Beth's side while she was this badly injured, especially since Falarion was fine for now.


Listening to Totus while Beth finished getting ready, Manjano merely shook his head and muttered, "I doubt anyone can keep her from doing stuff like this."


Following after Beth and Totus, Manjano pulled out one of his daggers just in case the Nian's attention diverted to them, though the others seemed to be doing plenty to keep it distracted for now.


@Flutterby

 

[deer]

Xiao Hui had made her way over to Alec, Raven, and Leandra, during the time it took the others to process what she had explained about Nian. Hearing Alec's concern and question, she gave him a small smile, nodding in response, "Physically, I'm okay." She stated, but didn't say more since there was a battle waiting in front of them, whether it they came out alive, it all depended on their planning and abilities. However soon, Nian furiously pawed Beth away from him, causing her to slam across the other side of the area as Xiao Hui's eyes widened, "Beth!" She called out as she saw Manjano and Falarion quickly head towaeds Beth and Totus. Wincing slightly, fearing how much pain that must be, considering she'd already taken a lot of hits before, but still, it concerned Xiao Hui how much more she could take before she literally fell to pieces. Quickly diverting her attention away from them, Xiao Hui heard Maia's voice as she looked over, glad to see she was alright when Alec had said she gotten a table topple over her. However, it was true what she was saying, where would Nian run off to? There were so many people outside, wouldn't he harm them? But even so, how'd he get passed the other red decorations without being hurt? Unless the night helped him and it was only effective if he stood close to it? Anyways, Maia had a point and hearing the Agent she had yet to meet (Raven), Xiao Hui nodded at Maia, Raven, and Alec's proposal plan to surround it. However, soon enough, Nian lashed out, heading towards the decorative walls, leaping off of it as an explosion rung out, only for Alec to quickly push her and Leandra out of the way. Falling from the sudden push, Xiao Hui fell down quickly on her head, feeling dizzy from the movements and the hit on the ground. As Luness was helping Leandra get up, Laohu rushed to herself, nudging against her back to slowly and quickly get her back up, "Hui, get up! We need to surround Nian." Slightly frazzled still, she nodded, slowly getting up as she turned to look at Leandra, "Lea, we need to move, quickly." She said, but before they could go anywhere, Xiao Hui looked over at the scene, placing a hand on her head as she squinted, looking to see that Duirk was okay, only for her smile to drop when Nian crashed onto the stage, her face palming, as the lights and stage crumbled on top of both Duirk and Nian. "Duuuuirkkk!" She yelled out in anguish, her voice cracking as she tried to take a step only to fall down as he body shook.


Eyes widenning as tears welled around her eyes as she heard Alec's enraged and desparate calls for his partner, shaking her head, she couldn't believe it. Hearing Alec's voice broke her in two. Laohu growled lowly helping Xiao Hui back on her feet as Xiao Hui gripped Laohu's fur tightly. With her other free hand, she took Lea's hand shakily, even knowing she was a little jumpy when it came to physical contact, but held it for a slight moment before letting go. Xiao Hui's lips quivered as she willed herself to move, "L-Lea. . " She began, trying to take deep breathes, willing herself to get it together, "We need to get somewhere and quick. Will you stand on the sidelines or help get Nian down?" She asked, turning towards her, though she felt her resolve shaking when Nian managed to slowly creep up from the rubbles by himself as Alec faced him, shaking with rage and anger. Falarion appeared and growled, baring his teeth at Nian by Alec's side, following Luness that managed to fly above Nian, ready to use her power, and BB flying near Luness, perhaps using her voice to make more noise. Soon enough, Maia and Raven aimed their pistols at Nian. Seeing that if anyone dared to walk near Nian, they would be the ones in the line of fire. "Duirk . . Duirk . . he'll . . he'll be fine, I know it. ." She tried, lying to herself, trying to hope to herself she was right, "He just couldn't. . Not yet." Biting her lips, her heart broke for Alec, knowing he hated this mission all along, especially being separated from him. Laohu, knowing the turmoil Hui was in, needed her to get a grip and fast. "Hui, we need to hurry and figure out where we are standing. He's going to pounce any moment and we need to be in position." He said. Her mouth and throat were running dry, her voice hoarsing slightly. "Laohu . . can you. . ?" Knowing what she was thinking he shook his head, "If I do that, the whole building will collapse with us in it, it's a greater chance we'd die with Nian." Laohu said, gritting his teeth at the matter at hand. "Giggles, you better be alright." He voiced out-loud, refusing to acknowledge that he may be under the rumbles. . gone. "If this first strike doesn't work, we'd need to be ready, so we'll be the back-up plan." Laohu said, knowing Hui may not be thinking straight and seeing Lea in this predicament, the same can be said about her. "I need you to help me." He stated as Xiao Hui looked towards him, her facade breaking down quickly as she stared into his eyes, "What is it?" She asked him as she turned towards Lea, giving her a wry smile as she nudge her slightly to get her attention.


"If their attack work or does not work, with Luness blinding Nian along with Raven, Maia, and Alec shooting at him, the pistols can bounce anywhere, giving ample of noise and hitting range for at least one or two of the bullets hitting Nian. But seeing as how big he is, he won't be going down so quickly." Laohu stated as Hui finished, "And we need him to, especially if driving him away does work." Nodding, he looked at the two girls, "We need to evacuate everyone out of here immediately, after the shots are fired and the attacks are starting, if we want to trap Nian inside. But the only way to stop his movements is if you . ." "Paralyze him, but he's going to be everywhere, how can we even get close to him?" Xiao Hui asked, looking over to stare at Nian once more, as she closed her eyes tightly, not wanting to remember her nightmares as she turned her attention back to the subject at hand. Laohu, seeing her reaction wanted this done and fast, "Trust me, we'll need to get you somewhere high enough and that's where you will have to jump from my back onto him. Lea, on the other hand, will be needed for the end." Blinking as she shook her head, "No, it's dangerous, I'm not allowing Lea to be in front of Nian." Laohu growled lowly once more, "Hui, we don't have time for this! You got a better idea? Lea, wait for my signal, it depends where Nian will fall. You'll have to quickly get Hui out of there since I won't be able to get to her on time if the plan works." Clenching her fist, Xiao Hui hated this plan much more so, hoped Lea wouldn't have to do anything. "You'll trap him under the building once it's safe." Laohu nodded, "It's the back up plan." Taking in a shallow breathe, Xiao Hui she hoped it didn't come to that, but if it meant taking Nian down, she'd have to risk it.

@SilverFlight @Lioness075
​

 

[Lioness075]

Leandra smiled faintly at Xiao Hui with a distracted expression when she comfortably took Leandra's hand for a brief moment. So much transpired in between that simple gesture, but Leandra definitely appreciated it.


Listening to the plan unfolding between Xiao Hui and Laohu, Leandra blinked when she was addressed as a part of the team now.


Anxiously rubbing at the back of her neck, Leandra looked between the two going back and forth until she was finally given a chance to respond.


"Um, no, yeah, this could actually work. If I, uh, don't mess it up, of course."


Shutting her mouth after rambling, Leandra then quickly added, "Sorry, I'm a bit nervous is all."


Sighing, Leandra said with a feigned confident smile, "I can do this. We can do this. Come on, I'll help Xiao Hui when the Nian falls."


Leandra then bounded away from the pair, finding some good cover behind a table turned on its side, which was conveniently placed near the stage and where the Nian was.


Having noticed the armed teammates, Leandra wisely avoided their line of sight while she moved.


@crucialstar

 

[Peaceswore]

Fie had let out a small sheik and closed his eyes when the python attacked him however when he wasn't bitten he still kept his eyes closed only to feel himself being picked up. He was about to let out a loud screech but hearing he Simon he kept silent and instantly moved out of his grip only to find a safe place on his shoulder still hugging the tablet. As everything went on he moved close to Simon and started to shake especially when the lights went out. Gods he hated the dark. He was frozen stiff, he shook like no tomorrow and hugged the tablet to his chest as he kept his eyes shut a small whimper leaving him. "A-A-Ash." He whispered in worry his tail now curling around his feet that dug into Simon's shoulder so he wouldn't fall.


@zCrookedz


Ash did what he could to get everyone out and helped a few injured leave as well however when Luness took off he of course followed right after he. Hearing Fie's whimper he simply smiled a bit as if trying to give him one that would reassure the monkey even if he couldn't see him. "Don't worry buddy. Just sit tight." He whispered before he heard a crash and saw the rumble fall onto the hyena. At this his eye widen and he moved away from Luness. Everything was happening so fast and he didn't know what to do for a spilt second. He heard shouting and saw a lot of things going on. But soon he stumbled his way over to Alec and began to help move the rubble to help the man find his companion. At the moment Ash only had a few explosives with him. And he didn't want to risk using any since he didn't know where the others were exactly located. "This went to shit so fast." He whispered as he picked up rubble after rubble in search for the hyena.


@SilverFlight

 

[deer]

At hearing Leandra's "okay" and acceptance of being part of the plan, Xiao Hui supressed the urge to groan and send her a look that said "not you too". But nevertheless, nodded, knowing she was old enough to make her own decisions, but it didn't mean she liked the idea. At hearing Lea's remarks, Xiao Hui managed to laugh lightly hearing her ramble slightly as she shook her head, "No need to apologize, it wouldn't be you if you didn't ramble or make those remarks, Lea." She before smiling softly at her, before she sighed, "I'm nervous too, Lea. . ever since we heard our mission was going to Beijing. . " Xiao Hui trailed on, before whispering, "I never wanted to come back." As she stopped herself from saying anymore as Laohu's grimaced slightly, nudging against her leg, she took it as a signal to get into position. As Lea attempted to be confidence and showed her enthusiasm, Xiao Hui smiled wryily once more, "We can do this. Thank you in advance for coming to my rescue." She said, before wishing her good luck and to be safe. As Leandra went away to find a cover spot, Xiao Hui took a deep breathe as Laohu waited for her before heading towards the opposite side of the area to look for some stairs to get to the second level.


Reaching the second level, they were given a big wide view of the level below them, so they were actually above Nian and Luness from where they stood. It was higher than she expected but, it gave them a good angle and thankfully Nian hadn't seen them up there, considering he was so focused down below. Purring against Xiao Hui, he spoke, "Sorry, Hui, how are you feeling? It's been a wild night, hasn't it?" He said, trying to ease the situation as the watched ahead of them, waiting for their chance. "It's alright, Laohu, Only you would be able to make up a plan such as this in plus, it's solid. I'm just being. . " "Protective?" He chuckled, "When are you not? It's okay." Smiling softly at her fuzz ball, Xiao Hui knelt down as Laohu lowered his head and leaned towards Xiao Hui, as she hugged him. "I missed you." She whispered, letting the warmth of his fur comfort her. "Missed you too, Hui. I believe in you." Laohu said in a low voice as Xiao Hui nuzzled her head against his nose. "Me too, always." Soon, deciding the others should know of what to do after, Laohu decided to speak in the comms as Xiao Hui observd the scene, seeing Ash by the rubbles, avoiding Nian's line of sight, as he tried to look for Duirk. "Testing. . 1. . .2. . It's Laohu. Whether this works or not, depends on you guys. Once Nian is down, you have to exit the premises carefully and quickly. If he happens to get out, you must be ready, just in case he tries to go on a rampage and attacks the civilian outside. But, let's hope this plan works, trapping him in here."

@Flutterby @SilverFlight @Lioness075 @zCrookedz @andujarprime @DawnAntalios @Bolts @Epiphany @Kharmin @Peaceswore
​

 

[fishfeet]

Aslan bared his teeth at the sprinklers, as if that would get them to stop. The water was seeping through his fur, which annoyed him. So did the loud alarms, I mean, come on, how loud did an alarm have to be for people to hear it? The darkness, however, was the one thing that didn't bother Aslan. At least, not as much as everything else. The not-so big cat rushed to the area backstage... Or, dodged towards it, because everywhere he went there were feet. One almost kicked him in the ribs- Heels.. That would've left a mark.- And another actually managed to actually step on his claw, to which he gave a silent yowl. If he had been able to use his vocals, though, the sound would have been lost in the sea of screams. A particularly loud, shrill one reached his ears, making Aslan's fur stand on end. 'Julia, where are you?! And please tell me you heard that scream.' His ears had subconsciously pinned themselves to his skull, and is was pretty obvious now that he was not happy. What if that had been one of his teammates? Why were they screaming? And most of all, why was an alarm going off? And who had set it off? A fleeing guest got something warm on his pelt, and when he turned to sniff it, however wet and clogged his sense of smell was, he could still smell what it was. 'Blood..' He took off fast as he could backstage, and the scene he (barely) saw took some time to process.


Oh.


A giant beast is attacking everyone.


He saw Duik shoot by, quickly pursued by a lion-like creature with dragon wings when the creature rammed into a light beam or something, causing everything to fall down on them and.. Duik. Though he hadn't even spent that much time with the hyena or his companion, he felt his heart get torn out at Alec's mournful wail, and it echoed through his already-pounding-from-the-loud-music ears. He hissed , wishing he were actually something useful, like a rhino. But no, he was just a mute feline whose species was almost unknown stuck in a terrible, terrible mess. Beth was getting beat, too, and he was just sitting there. The stag had rammed into the beast, but Aslan just sat there. And then, he decided to help in one of the only ways a small thing like him could. He ran over the rubble, gaining a few cuts, towards Alec and Duik. Aslan started tugging at a beam, using his weight and front paws to try to lift it like a lever. He looked over at Alec worriedly, but really it wasn't him he was worried about. He was worried about the entire team, in general. If one of them died, all of them would suffer trauma. Especially the new people like him, Julia, Barry, and... Crap. There was a hummingbird here. Aslan felt his claws giving out suddenly and gripped the beam with his teeth too. 'Julia! I need help!' If only he were his namesake, a mighty lion. But he was here, and he'd help in any way he could.


@Everyone


(Idek what to do with Jules for now so just... Shmurr)

 

[andujarprime]

Spoiler

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_04/redsuit.jpg.0734f186f0dc29e8591f8fe2a853fb0a.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="117378" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_04/redsuit.jpg.0734f186f0dc29e8591f8fe2a853fb0a.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>

<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_04/redhaku.jpg.9708a7c8b1963891a9485571f8677f7e.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="117379" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2016_04/redhaku.jpg.9708a7c8b1963891a9485571f8677f7e.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>

As the club was illuminated once more, the true chaos and destruction that was unleashed in a matter of minutes fully revealed itself to Rin and Haku. They both nearly froze in fear at the site of the beast. Nearly being the keyword, as it lunged and attacked, Rin managed to dive and roll. Deftly evading swinging paws, and broken furniture. He gasped and held his breath when Duik made a dash for the sound equipment. The music blasted, and the beast was clearly disoriented. “But at what cost?” He thought to himself as he watched helplessly while the rigging fell around Duik. He made a hesitant move to go and help, but others were already rushing to it. The beast wouldn’t stay distracted for long. Not if the legend that Xiao had just told them held true. It only came out once a year, it was highly doubtful that a few moments of noise and light would end Nian’s only night out. No, Rin held his Katana at the ready, to provide further distraction while they dug Duik out to safety. He wasn’t sure that a blade could pierce the creature. But this wasn’t any ordinary blade, nor was this an ordinary scenario. Activating the blade could cause the power to arc from the blade through his soaked hands, and then juiming to the nearby members and putting everyone out of commission. He didn’t know the ins and outs of this weapon just yet, but rubber insulation was something he needed to mention to Nigel if they got back. When they got back. It wouldn’t do to think in ifs right now. He took a quick glance around noting everyone’s positions. He noticed Luness starting to glow, now that she didn’t have a torrent of water pouring over her she seemed more effective. And he remembered this specific tell from their first mission. But she needed the Nian’s attention. “Luness, we’re gonna try and get it to face us. When it does, that should be your cue to swoop down. Just give us a second or two to shut our eyes.” He called out to her as he grabbed up a glass bottle and positioned himself near Maia and the other agent. He wasn’t sure who she was, but she seemed to have joined in with the other group. “Reload and open fire, we need it’s attention.” He called out to Maia and Raven before letting fly the half empty glass bottle. Haku hissed in discomfort, there wasn’t much she could do. Her venom was probably not going to be effective against a creature as old and strong as this.


@SilverFlight @Lioness075 @Epiphany @Kharmin @everyone else

 

[SilverFlight]

A heavy beat pulsed through the entirety of the club. Duik's mix poured into the darkness and made the creature wince, almost as if the sound pained it.


The nian snarled as it felt the sharp sting of Luness' beak, upon seeing what was attacking it however it leapt back a pace, shielding its eyes quickly.


The bullets from Raven and Maia flew through the air about the Nian, some finding their marks, but with the nian's thick, protective skin, it was all the effect of shooting bb gun at a rhinoceros. It did however further derail the creature's confidence and it began to step back, looking about wildly for an escape.


Alec was aware that someone had come up by his side. He recognized Falarion's growl. The others were coming and he felt a wash of relief. The nian seemed overwhelmed, and at that moment Eos plowed into its flank. The overwhelming force of the smaller creature seemed enough noe to topple the nian and it hit the stage hard, flailing as it tried to right itself. Its tail lashed in every direction and its legs kicked out, struggling to find solid ground. One hind leg went shooting out in the direction of the old stag with a massive amount of power.


@TheBOOKWORMgal @crucialstar

 

[Lioness075]

Luness continued to circle up above, as the Nian attempted to shield its eyes only for it to be shot at by Raven and Maia.


While the Nian stepped back and looked about, Luness began hovering lower and lower, looking for her opportunity.


Her opportunity quickly arrived when Eos struck the Nian and sent it flailing onto its side.


Diving down quickly towards the Nian's head, making sure to widely avoid the tail dancing about, Luness then landed only a few feet away from the Nian's head and let out a loud shriek before quickly lighting up the stage and then the entire room before her light became blinding and flashed for a few seconds.


As her light died back down, Luness hopped back a few feet while wearily watching the Nian to see if it would run away yet. She kept her wings out at her sides, ready to fly away if the Nian attempted anything. She was also ready to try and lash out at the Nian's eyes with her talons if need be.


@SilverFlight @DawnAntalios @Epiphany @Kharmin @andujarprime @Bolts @zCrookedz @Sleipnir


Meanwhile, Falarion bounded after Alec when he rushed to the rubble, as he felt he'd be useless in a fight against that beast anyways.


Letting out a small whimper upon hearing Alec's words, Falarion then began digging at the rubble, uncertain of where to even look for Duik.


This was not good, not good at all. Folding his ears against his head, Falarion then whimpered again at the thought of Duik being crushed under all of this rubble. They were becoming such great friends, too!


@SilverFlight @Peaceswore @Bookworm0492


Leandra had heard Luness' thoughts and wisely ducked behind her cover and covered her eyes to avoid the worse of the blinding light.


As it were, Luness had warned the team before about her blinding light only for the enemy to use that warning to their advantage. She didn't want that to happen again, but now anyone on the team could've been blinded, too.


At least, it only normally lasted for about ten seconds before one was left with spots in their eyes and blurry vision. That normally wore off within thirty seconds after the initial ten seconds of being completely blind.


Peeking over her overturned table, Leandra's eyes widened at the downed Nian. Was it over?


Seeing Alec and a few of the others frantically digging for Duik, Leandra quickly ducked back down. She couldn't watch that...especially if they only ended up finding Duik's body.

 

[zCrookedz]

Simon listened to the crashing and the terrifying noises that came from whatever was in the club with the group. Finally after a few moments of silence, Simon heard Xiao's voice come over the com. He listened and began heading for the casino. It was good to here that the group was together now, hopefully, Simon could find Jimbo and they could figure out what to do.


When the lights clicked back on, Simon was still making his way to the casino. Then Xiao came back over the com's and Simons run slowed to a trot. As Xiao described the beast, he felt his chest tighten, his stomach dropped, and he began to sweat as he listened. His mind sent him back to the beach, looking around desperately for Jimbo, then Amber and Calista, then the rest of the team. They were staring in shock and terror at what was emerging from the water. Simon could only watch as a monster, who was not supposed to be there, destroyed his team, his friends, and then came at him once again.


Simon leaned against a wall with his arm as he tried to collect himself once more. He closed his eyes and tried to push the image out of his head of his team sprawled across the beach, dead. It wasn't until he heard another voice come over the coms that he was able to reel himself back to the present and begin to move forward again. Raven was assessing the situation, and Simon agreed, they needed to finish this thing off.


Finally after what seemed like hours, Simon emerged from the lounge and looked towards the stage as the giant creature was toppled by lighting and stage equipment.


Jimbo had been by Duik side up until he nodded and took off towards the stage equipment. When he saw Duik go under the stage equipement, Jimbo's eyes went wide and he rushed towards the stage.


"Duik! Simon! Help me put here!


Simon's attention was jerked towards the stage as the nian struggled against the others. He was behind Jimbo in seconds as they rushed the stage as Alec began digging for Duik. The pair went to either side and didn't hesitate as the both grabbed large handfuls of metal.


"Alec, step back. If you see Duik, grab him quick."


Simon and Jimbo both hoisted at the same time, slowly lifting the rigging up.


@SilverFlight

 

[Flutterby]

Beth was glad that Manjano didnt try to stop her again, but she didnt exactly appreciate the comments between he and Totus. She would ignore that, for now. As soon as she saw the opening, like Alec, she dashed forward. Totus flew behind her, and hovered over the pile. Alec beat her there and began frantically digging. Within seconds, his hands were bleeding. Beth went to him and grabbed his wrists.


"Alec, breathe." She said, speaking close to his ear so she could speak gently and still be heard. "Digging haphazardly will take longer, and cause more damage to the people searching. I know youre scared. But take a minute." Beth glanced up at Totus, who seemed unsure. The thumping music was covering up all other noise; Totus couldn't hear anything else, especially not a heartbeat. Beth bit her lip, and looked up as Simon and Jimbo called out. She pushed Alec back, and watched as the larger rigging began to rise. As soon as there was enough space, she darted forward and began searching the area underneath for Duik's familiar form. "Check all over, but try not to move anything that is supporting something else." She called out, but the pile didnt seem unstable to her.


Beth noticed a cavity had been uncovered, and climbed toward it, wiggling into between a few smaller pieces of rigging to get to it. It was sharp, catching her dress and slicing the side open. She flinched away, but was lucky to avoid it getting her skin. Beth pushed another piece further away from the hole, grimacing as the metal cut her palms.


Totus landed next to her and peered into the hole, searching for any sign of Duik inside.


@SilverFlight @zCrookedz (and the others digging)

 

[DawnAntalios]

Zoe hesitated as she was uncertain what to do. She reached in the pockets of her disguise, revealing the small sword she used back when she was practicing with it. She stared at the cold steel, her mind not being focused at all - she knew that she wanted to use it, she wanted to become someone who acted in this situation. She looked around... everyone were doing their best, some were trying to rescue Duik while others were fighting with the beast itself. Zoe felt anger washing over her as she cursed under her breath.


" I am wasting time here... " she told herself as she pushed herself forward to move... but she could not. Her legs disobeyed her as they remained still. for the first time she felt being petrified by fear and doubt, trying to overcome these emotions was not the easiest of tasks. She watched as even Eos did his best.


" Furball... " she whispered as she watched the stag hurling himself against their foe - he faced similar horrors... yet he was still able to fight.


Ramming into the nian proved to be much more taxing that he initially have thought. Eos used all his might and utilized the distraction created by Luness and BB, looking around happily as bullets hit the beast left and right. Though they were yet to pierce its infernal hide Eos knew that their goal now was not to actually defeat their foe - they merely needed to force it to retreat so that they could recover. And thus he needed to give his all.


The hide of his foe was thicker than any fiend he had fought before - but he mustered enough strength to push on and thus he managed to knock it on its side. The massive roar it let out in surprise and the even louder, thundering voice as it fell to the ground made Eos to stagger - his head swam and he could barely regain his battle stance. Though his vision was still blurred he noticed how the beast was struggling with its massive legs and saw one of the muscular, clawed feet flying towards him. Eos' blood froze in his veins as he tried to move, only to find his hooves defying him. He closed his eyes and braced for the impact.


But instead of a loud yell and the sound of claws tearing flesh apart all that happened was a very loud sound of clashing metal. Opening his eyes he almost yelled in surprise as he noticed Zoe struggling in front of him, her sword straining against the massive leg of the nian.


" Zoe... " the old stag mused as the girl groaned.


" I... will never again... allow you to act heroically without me. " she gritted her teeth as she needed to muster all her remaining strength to hold off the beast. Fortunately she looked towards where the head of the best was and noticed how Luness was about to disorient it.


" Shelter your eyes! " she exclaimed as both of them turned away just in time to avoid the blinding torrent of light. The nian was not lucky enough to follow their example as it's leg winced in pain, pulling it away from the girl and the stag. Sighing momentarily in their respite they waited until the blazing light of Luness faded before Zoe grinned at Eos.


" Let us show this creature what happens to those who mess with our squad. "


" At your side, milady. " Eos nodded and together they renewed their onslaught on the beast, hoping to force it back with their relentless strikes, trying to hinder its movements as they struck at its legs.


@Lioness075 @crucialstar @SilverFlight @Epiphany @Kharmin @andujarprime @Bolts @zCrookedz @Sleipnir

 

[Kharmin]

Raven/Kitsune


Kitsune breathed an audible sigh of relief as others from the company moved in on the nian. At least he was no longer the last and only line of defense between it and Duik. Seeing that his smaller stature would be of little use, he spun around and swiveled his head to assess the rest of the scene.


He watched in horror as Alec, completely uncaring for his own safety, recklessly dug into the debris in his panicked attempt to rescue the hyena. Sparks showered around them as water from the sprinklers continued its assault on the electronic equipment. Without caution, Kitsune vaulted toward Alec.


"Get a grip!" he hollered at him. "You'll only injure yourself and possibly even Duik with your recklessness. Pull one wrong wire and you'll fry us all!"


Then, the fox spied a small hole in the debris. "Keep still!" he shouted to the rescuers. "I can burrow in there and pull him out!"


Raven continued to reload and fire at the nian as she carefully chose her shots. With all of the commotion and action around the beast, the windows of opportunity were now fewer and much smaller. As the beast moved and thrashed at the onslaught, Raven moved and adjusted her position to allow for the highest probability in her shots. She could see that the .357 was having little to no effect on the creature – she had already re-holstered the 9mm after seeing it was even less use – so Raven attempted to aim for softer targets like the thing's eyes and ears. However, despite her best efforts, the nian seemed to move at just the last moment and her bullets caromed harmlessly off of it's unnatural hide.


"We're getting nowhere," she muttered, disappointed at not having already felled the nian. Again, she silently cursed their situation for having been so inadequately prepared with either a solid plan or alternatives. Hell, even their gear wasn't up to the task now before them.


@SilverFlight @zCrookedz @Flutterby

 

[SilverFlight]

Alec felt the pressure on his wrists and struggled for only a moment before Beth's face materialized in his vision. He stopped and nodded at her, processing her words carefully, but unable to speak for the lump forming in his throat. Calm, level-headed Alec was present in all matters except Duik. His hyena companion had been the only positive thing in his past and without him, Alec felt completely lost.


He allowed himself to be guided back as Jimbo and Simon began lifting the debris. Then Kitsune dove into a small hole made by effort. Everyone was with him. He watched them all and it suddenly dawned on him, that he wasn't alone. He had friends, teammates, people who cared about him and Duik.


Alec took a deep breath and held the feeling close.


He knelt by the opening into the debris pile, seeing the fox's bushy tail...and then something else: A spotted flank.


"Duik!" He called and was reaching in, helping the fox pull him clear.


@TheBOOKWORMgal @Sleipnir @Peaceswore