Graded [Frontier] Blood and Title

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 2a: Two Birds with One Illusion (round4)
Re: Yukan ( TheTimePiece ) with Thimble and scouts, plus the Monsters Skarn. VS the remaining Wildfang Marauders. Plus Zephyr and the Alpha Golden-Tusk Boar.
Re: Indicus ( Shadow Dancer ) and the orcs are a running...
---

As the ghosts faded, the battlefield began to take on a tangible, corporeal presence once more. The ethereal haze and haunting moans dissipated, leaving only the sounds of steel clashing, the grunts of combat, and the groans of the dying.

Gralk Bloodfang, seeing his comrades fall and the spectral allies dissipating, roared in fury. His eyes, filled with bloodlust, darted about the scene, looking for a way to turn the tides. In contrast, Krell the Ravager, never the brightest or most strategic of the Marauders, seemed dazed and disoriented without Mara's guidance.

Thimble and his scouts focused on Fargrim One-Eye, their arrows zipping through the air with deadly accuracy. Fargrim tried to zigzag, making himself a harder target, but it was evident that his years and injuries were catching up with him.

"Fargrim! It's over!" shouted Thimble, nocking another arrow and taking aim. "Surrender, and you might see another day."

Fargrim, panting heavily, growled back, "I'd rather die on my feet, fae!" Just as he turned to make a desperate last stand, an arrow whizzed past, striking him in the knee, bringing the old poacher down to the ground.

Zephyr, the effervescent maiden, hovered above the scene, watching with a blend of curiosity and intent. The dance between life and death on this battlefield seemed to fascinate her, but her gaze kept returning to Yukan.

Gralk Bloodfang, in a last stand of defiance, bellowed a challenge. "Come then, Yukan! Face me!" He tightened his grip on his massive axe, planting his feet in a warrior's stance, ready to meet whatever came his way.

Krell, rallying beside Gralk, managed a primal roar, his eyes wild and frantic. He seemed less focused on victory and more on sheer survival, but his determination to fight was clear.

Nearby, the massive form of the Golden-Tusk Boar, now free from the distracting spirits, charged towards the fray, its massive tusks glistening in the sunlight. Its eyes locked onto Gralk and Krell, recognizing them as the last real threats on the field.

Yukan never took his Yari away from facing Krell however, and kept his focus on him since they were still technically just at a momentary stand still as they assessed each other. This could be risky, but Yukan was someone who sometimes was willing to take a gamble, after all that much had been clear with his plan today, this had all been risky so far, but hopefully the payoff would be worth it should he come out of there alive.
Yukan’s voice rang clear over the battlefield, his eyes locked onto Krell. “You there! May I have your name? My name is Yukan Koyake of the Koyake Clan.” He invoked his ability, Ashigaru Assurance, his voice firm and resonant, reaching the hearts of those he addressed.

Krell, amidst his primal energy, glanced at Yukan. His demeanor slightly changed, a flicker of acknowledgment in his eyes. He grunted, “Krell. I am Krell the Ravager. No clan, no fancy titles.”

Gralk Bloodfang, observing the interaction, stood rigid, his hand clutching his axe so tight his knuckles were white. His eyes studied Yukan, evaluating the sincerity in his words.

“While I may disagree with the current path you've chosen,” Yukan continued, addressing Krell but loud enough for all to hear, “it is an undeniable fact that you show no fear in the heat of battle, willing to give it your all to vanquish your foes. For this, I must admit that you are brave. You remind me of my friend here and his resolve to bring his opponents down.”

The battlefield was held in tense silence, the warriors around pausing to hear Yukan’s words.

“With a striking resolve, even when pelted with arrows, struck by me, but even now injured, you stand here, outnumbered, ready to try again to strike me down now where I stand with your all just as you had before. This is admirable.”

Gralk's insane and magnetic energy seemed to ripple through the air, his piercing gaze fixated on Yukan. “Admiration? From a foe? Spare me your sweet words, Yukan of the Koyake Clan! Blood and battle are the only truths!” Despite his words, there was a hint of curiosity in his crazed eyes, a subtle inclination to hear more.

“So I ask you marauder,” Yukan's voice was earnest and his eyes sought Krell’s, “why not live another day to see another battle? You can see what the Empire has done for you and your kinsmen thus far. Why not join alongside me as a foreign fighter for the Fae See?”

Krell grunted, his eyes, however, betraying a conflict within him. “Fight... for the Fae See?” He mumbled, seemingly grappling with the concept.

“Your skills would be most useful and it would give you a chance to let the Empire know how you really feel about their indifference to your plights. In joining us, you would be able to fight many foes and feel the thrill of battle many times to come,” Yukan pressed on, his gaze never faltering from Krell's eyes.

Gralk, sneering but obviously considering Yukan's words, chimed in, his voice gruff, “Fight alongside you? Our blades thirsty for the same blood?”

“As for the rest of you left, I would highly suggest you hear my words, and consider them carefully,” Yukan spoke to all present, his voice carrying a weight of truth and conviction.

The air was tense, all eyes on Gralk, Krell, and Yukan. It was a moment of precarious balance between further bloodshed and a sliver of unexpected alliance. The choice rested on the shoulders of the bloodthirsty Marauders, and silence stretched across the battlefield as all waited for their response.

In the tense, ethereal silence that followed the interaction between Yukan and the marauders, there was a sudden shift in the atmosphere. The ground itself seemed to pulsate, a precursor to the predatory stealth that was Skarn, the Earth Drake. It was a creature born of the earth’s very essence, a formidable predator that moved through the soil as effortlessly as a shark through the water.

Unbeknownst to the marauders, Krell, in particular, Skarn had activated [Hunger’s Deepest Devour E], a technique allowing it to capitalize on the unsuspecting marauder’s vulnerability. As the ground quivered and ruptured, a shockwave rolled towards Krell, a fissure cracking open the very earth beneath him, revealing the gleaming, diamond-hard rows of Skarn’s teeth, ready to devour.

The penetrating bite of Skarn had the potential to bypass the defenses of its prey, making it a deadly weapon. Krell, already grievously injured, was now the prey of this primeval hunter. The drake’s intent was not to kill but to incapacitate, to render the marauder vulnerable to the subsequent wrath of its allies.

Skarn’s ambush was a masterful execution of predatory precision, his scales shimmering with an earthen hue as he rose from the ground, the devouring maw open wide. Krell, caught in the stealthy trap laid by the drake, barely had time to register the immediate danger before Skarn’s jaws clamped down, the incapacitating bite punctuated by the echoes of crunching armor and a stifled groan.

Gralk's roar pierced the skies, a sonorous bellow that seemed to echo through the very soul of the land, rife with unbridled rage and raw power. The energy around him pulsated, a violent maelstrom of fervent life force that seemed to defy the very laws of nature. It was a force born of his indomitable will, a fierce resolve to surmount the pressing darkness that was closing in around him.

His form began to convulse, muscles rippling and bones snapping and reshaping, as he underwent a transformation most cataclysmic. The air around him distorted, the very fabric of reality seemed to bend to his formidable will. Gralk, who once stood as a man among men, his form reminiscent of a hardened warrior, now loomed over all, a gargantuan titan of flesh and blood.

His colossal form towered over the battleground, every feature, every scar magnified, a testament to his battle-hardened life. His newfound strength was palpable, every movement causing the air to thrum with the latent power that coursed through his veins.

His eyes, now vast pools of raging fire, locked onto Yukan and Skarn, a silent promise of impending havoc and retribution. His voice, now a booming echo that seemed to resonate from the very heavens, broke the stifling silence.

"YOU THINK YOU CAN SUBDUE ME? GRALK BLOODFANG, THE TITAN OF THE MARAUDERS?" The earth itself seemed to shake with the sheer force of his proclamation. "I shall grind your bones to dust and let the wind scatter them across the realms! NO BEAST OR MAN SHALL STAND BEFORE ME!"

The battlefield, already a chaotic maelstrom of clashing wills and unyielding spirits, now harbored a leviathan, a monolith of enraged humanity, an embodiment of primal power. The Fae See and the surviving marauders alike could only stare, a mixture of awe and terror etched on their faces, as Gralk, now a living mountain, stood ready to unleash his fury on those who dared to challenge his might.

---

OOC:

Only the Chieftain Gralk Bloodfang remains. However, he's used some sort of Single Use Limiter Ultimate Power to seek revenge. It's allowed him to size change from Medium to Huge!

Huge - These are creatures that are around 8 feet to 16 feet tall/long and weighing between 500lbs and 2 tons. they can generally still squeeze into sturdy doorways and halls meant for smaller creatures with comedic effect, but tend to prefer dwellings and wilderness that are more open. Smaller creature settings like hobbit and gnome holes are out of the question. Most mounts in the setting and giant creature variants would be at least this big.

• Strength - B Grade or higher
• Vitality - B Grade or higher
• Super Strength skill - C grade or higher
• Feature: Large skill - C grade or higher. Grants character natural E grade heavy armor in equipment
• Natural Weapons - C grade or higher. A weapon listed in equipment section of character sheet.

Meanwhile, Indicus and the three remaining orcs would take a minute at least until they finally reached Yukan without movement skills like Fast F. The Crimson Talon continued to reform their formation and retreat back to the [Slave Compound]. Keep in mind Indicus that you chased after the Crimson Talons who were a mile away, so getting back will take awhile unfortunately. On the flip side you can know easily see the massive body of Gralk Bloodfang! If you can figure out a clever way to attack from this far away or get closer in a round I'm open to it, but it'd be very hard I'd imagine.

So who is left NPC-wise?

1. Thimble and a unit of scout archers are on the top of canyon with good vantage to rain arrows down on Gralk.
2. Yukan, Skarn, and the Golden Tusk Boar are in melee range.
3. Zephyr is flying around in gaseous form nearby.

Good luck not turning into meat paste!

Spoiler: Wildfang Marauders' Status

Wildfang Marauders' Status:

• Chieftain Gralk Bloodfang:
  • Status: Alive.
  • Intent: Engage. His hunger for chaos and battle would drive him to retaliate even in the face of apparent defeat.
• Bryna the Berserker:
  • Status: Died by Grukk
  • Intent: N/A.
• Fargrim One-Eye:
  • Status: Died by Thimble and Scouts.
  • Intent: Flee. The combination of his skepticism about the illusion and the severe injuries from the arrows would push him towards self-preservation.
• Tara Wildsong:
  • Status: Died by Thimble
  • Intent: N/A.
• Krell the Ravager:
  • Status: Wounded and going to be devoured by Skarn next round
  • Intent: Engage. His madness would prevent him from recognizing the reality of the situation, driving him into the fray with reckless abandon.
• Dara Swiftblade:
  • Status: Alive and Escaped!
  • Intent: Using FAST to head to [Slave Compound]
• Gorak the Firestarter:
  • Status: Died by Yukan
• Varnak Ironfist:
  • Status: Died by Skarn, The Earth-Tunneling Drake
• Lysa Shadowveil:
  • Status: Died by Yara
• Mara the Whisperer:
  • Status: Died by Skarn, The Earth-Tunneling Drake.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 2b: A Liberation By Any Means (round4)
Re: Delta ( Uasal )

---

The Undercellar seemed to close in around Delta as she melded with the shadows, her body becoming one with the enveloping darkness. The air was thick with a tension that made every silent step feel like a dance with fate itself, a cacophony of silence and hushed whispers that sang the symphony of the unknown. The shadows around her danced and intertwined with her form, a silent accomplice to her steely resolve.

The woman, draped in a shroud of crimson, continued her ritualistic carvings, unaware of the silent shadow that lingered near. The air buzzed with an energy, unseen forces swirling around her, feeding off the fervent concentration that dripped from every cut, every whisper. Her actions seemed to reverberate with a hidden purpose, a clandestine aim cloaked in secrecy.

Delta's breaths were quiet, her senses heightened as she maneuvered around the engrossed woman, the shadows whispering secrets only she could understand. The dance with the unknown was a silent waltz, every step a careful placement, every breath a calculated exhale. Her eyes, unseen in the veil of shadows, watched the woman intently, assessing, learning, understanding.

The passage ahead was a labyrinthine tangle of shadows and secrets, the way forward unclear and fraught with unseen dangers. Yet, Delta pressed on, her determination undaunted, the secrets that lay within the Undercellar whispering to her from the shadows.

She could feel the pull of unseen energies, the Undercellar a living entity whispering its ancient secrets, its hidden truths. Her journey through the winding passages felt like a descent into the very heart of mystery, a dance with the shadows that concealed the forbidden knowledge of the ages.

As Delta moved through the labyrinth, her senses alert to every whisper, every shadow, the labyrinth seemed to whisper back, its echoes speaking of times long forgotten, of secrets long buried. The air was heavy with the unseen, the untold, the unknown.

Somewhere in the distance, the subtle clang of metal against stone reverberated through the halls. The mansion seemed alive, its very stones whispering the secrets of its master, its corridors echoing with the footsteps of the unseen. Delta's heart raced, her every sense heightened as she navigated the labyrinthine paths, the shadows her only companion in this dance with the unseen.

Her journey was one of solitude and silence, the world around her a symphony of shadows and whispers, her footsteps a silent melody in the dance of the unknown. The labyrinth unfolded before her, its secrets whispering in her ears, its shadows intertwining with her soul.

Every step Delta took was a step deeper into the unknown, a step closer to the truth hidden within the labyrinth of shadows. The air was heavy with the unseen, the untold, the unknown, and Delta was its sole dancer, its silent whisperer.

And the Undercellar watched, its ancient eyes observing the silent dancer, its whispering walls echoing with the secrets of the ages. The dance was not yet over, and the shadows had many more secrets to whisper.

In the dance of shadows and whispers, a sudden, chilling wind sweeps through the labyrinthine corridors, extinguishing the torches lining the walls. The darkness is all-encompassing, impenetrable, and in it, Delta could hear the soft, haunting murmur of unseen entities approaching her, whispering, “Why do you tread where shadows weep, Mortal? Speak, lest the shadows claim you as their own.”

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", "<Beastial>"​

Mentions: gmimperfecti Shadow Dancer

There wasn't a ton for Yukan to do it felt like in this situation by the time that his words weren't getting through to these Marauders. At first it was optomistic enough during the cease fire when they both seemed to genuinely consider his words. Krell seemed perhaps most receptive, given the negative response he was getting from Gralk. But even then there was a sense that Gralk was somewhat curious too at the proposition of working together. While Skarn showed his prowess of being an absolute predator, when he enacted his ability on Krell, that wasn't working best to the move that Yukan had just tried to pull other than the fact that his dialogue had served as a distraction of sorts for an opening so in that sense he killedIt was really unfortunate that it was clear several of them had afflictions of he head in their desire for destruction. This of course was a difficulty, these were criminals too, they didn't hold the same sensibilities which Yukan seemed to hold, in that working together was an obvious choice but they were both unable to think it through logically.

Or perhaps the raging Chieftain believed he had been had when the monster attacked it's prey, his ally. Whatever the reason he was really mad and getting large, very large. Even Yukan knew that even if he could survive a blow from the now titan like figure, it wouldn't be long before he'd be crossing over the river to the other side if he got hit.

It was unfortunate in that moment when Yukan didn't exactly have the best way of communicating to everyone else so that they could coordinate better but Indicus was still nearby as was his orcs. He knew if they stayed in striking range it would be extremely problematic. Hopefully the others who were farther away would catch on.

Yukan spoke with urgency using the ability To Arms! (On the Move Edition) this time speaking in Beastial to Indicus just encase Gralk was still aware enough to listen to what he was saying, there was a good chance he couldn't speak Beastial. Yukan might have tried something else given that Indicus was injured but there was time get tended to later, they needed to move if they didn't want to get killed.

"<Indicus head the same way I do, tell the Orcs to spread out and head our way let's head in the direction of the compound, if you can get him to follow us, maybe his large form heading toward our enemies will attract their attention and bring them out!>" Yukan exclaimed. Maybe Indicus could use his fire to attrack the attention of the great sized warrior. It'd be more difficult for him to hit them if they could get back into the more wooded area. There wasn't a ton of time to act, but he made his choice. Hopefully the others would gather what they were doing. If they could draw whoever remained of the Talons out this might be worth it. Even then he wasn't sure how long the transformation would last but if there was a chance for his enemies to clash or get put at a disadvantage he was willing to take it. Unfortunately Krell could not be saved, he wasn't about to deny a monster killing his enemy for him. This plan might just work to their advantage presuming he didn't get clobbered along the way. Yukan would begin moving 120 ft Toward the slave compound away from the giant with Fast E, as part of his ability.

Spoiler: Actions

1. & 2. Yukan uses his ability to tell and instruct Indicus of his plan in Beastial and then start moving 120 ft toward the slave compound as a way to try to encourage Gralk to follow them that direction.
To Arms! (On the Move Edition) - Leadership E, Fast E, Warfare F, Republic of Kuridan Etiquette F Grade E- Post Cooldown 1
Yukan uses his leadership skills and knowledge on warfare to give warfare related orders, Then/while on the way uses Fast E to move up to 120 ft toward destination.
Cooldowns:
E: (0/1)

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus just manages to hear Yukan's shouting and ran towards the compound (Fast F) using his wings to semi hover and keep weight off his twisted ankle. Indicus shouted to the orcs "Orcs if you can hear me help me lead this giant asshole to the Crimson Talons we may just be able to complete our goal yet!"

OOC: Indicus follows Yukan's orders and encourages the orcs to do the same

Regeneration cool down 5/6

gmimperfecti TheTimePiece

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 2a: Two Birds with One Illusion (round 5)
Re: Yukan ( TheTimePiece ) with Thimble and scouts, plus the Monsters Skarn. VS the Gigantic Gralk. Plus Zephyr and the Alpha Golden-Tusk Boar.
Re: Indicus ( Shadow Dancer ) and the orcs are a running, hobbling, and doing their best to move towards the slave compound while trying to intersect Yukan.

---

The air was charged with tension, a taut string waiting to snap in the tumultuous dance of destinies. Yukan's swift and silent retreat left ripples in the tapestry of battle, his figure moving like a shadow towards the distant Slave Compound, the echoes of his unspoken strategy hanging in the air.

Gralk, the behemoth of rage, his form an embodiment of chaotic power, seemed to sway momentarily, his attention drawn like a moth to a flame. The retreat of Yukan, however, did not hold his focus for long, his eyes, red with fury, locked on Skarn, the Earth-Tunneling Drake.

Skarn’s jaws were locked in a deadly embrace with Krell the Ravager, the scales of the battle tilting in Skarn’s favor as Krell, taken by surprise, struggled against the relentless assault. The scene was a chaotic symphony, a dance of teeth and claws, interspersed with the desperate gasps and roars of Krell.

Gralk's colossal form towered over them, a mountain of rage, his gigantic ax raised high, shadowing the fighters below. A pause, a moment of silence, and the ax descended with the wrath of the titans, cutting through the air, destined for the earth-bound drake.

Skarn, consumed in his engagement with Krell, was oblivious to the impending doom. The ax found its mark, a grievous wound, a chasm carved in Skarn’s being. But the trajectory of the ax did not halt; it continued its fatal dance, claiming Krell in its wake. A roar, a gasp, and the silent symphony of death played as Krell breathed his last, his form falling limp in Skarn’s grasp.

The wound, the unexpected assault, forced a reaction from Skarn, his primal instincts flaring. The drake, roaring in pain and surprise, retreated, his form delving deep beneath the earth, leaving a tunnel of displaced soil, his escape a desperate plunge into the refuge of the underground realms.

The fabric of the chaotic battlefield continued to weave, intricate threads of destiny intertwining, giving life to a myriad of unfolding scenarios. Thistle and the scouts, sensing the looming threat of the gargantuan Gralk, moved swiftly, blending with the environment. Like shadows, they melded with their surroundings, their forms dissipating, becoming one with the flora, their breaths silent whispers in the breeze.

The Golden Tusk Boar, the illusionary mate long gone, surveyed the escalating chaos, its primal instincts overtaking its initial curiosity. A tremor of fear passed through its form, its eyes darting in the realization of the unfolding peril. With a huff and a swift turn, the boar retreated, its form a blur of motion, racing towards the sanctuary of the great forest of the See, leaving behind the echoes of its hurried escape.

Zephyr, her wings dancing in the wind, her form a wisp of elegance, trailed behind Yukan, her gaze sharp, her curiosity piqued. Her voice, a melody of playful annoyance, broke the silence, her words aimed at the retreating figure of Yukan.

"Are we fleeing then, oh mysterious Yukan?" Her words were a dance of inquiry and tease. "Is this the valor of your kind, to retreat and leave the field to the dragons and the giants? Or is this some intricate dance of strategy, a game of shadows and retreats?"

Her eyes, pools of twinkling amusement, observed Yukan closely, her interest a mix of curiosity and a playful sense of betrayal. "Is the dragonkin more enthralling, more worthy of your gaze and strategy? Have the shadows and the whispers of the scales captured your interest more than the dance of the winds and the whispers of the sky?"

Her form fluttered around Yukan, her presence a playful gust of wind, her words the echoes of her fleeting thoughts, a playful symphony of inquiries and teases. Her eyes observed, her wings danced, and her voice was the melody of the unseen dance, a whisper in the unfolding tapestry of destinies.

---

Spoiler: OOC Explanation and Update

ooc: I rolled a 3-sided die, figuring you had a 66% chance Zephyr wouldn't do anything crazy, which was fairly generous of me. Luckily for you I rolled a 2, so she gave you the benefit of the doubt this round.

It appears Thistle and the Scouts don't have a ton of confidence in withdrawing towards the Slave Compound (especially with the Crimson Talons heading that way now as well) and they've gone to ground as it were, at least Yukan/Indicus can't see them unless you use some ability.

The Golden Tusk Boar, likewise with no one urging it on (e.g. Zephyr distracted with Yukan's retreat) has itself decided on flight instead of fight, given Gralk's gigantic size. The Boar retreats back towards the great forest of the See.

Meanwhile, since Yukan ran and didn't engage with Gralk, Gralk actually attacks Skarn who was busy trying to eat Krell from last round's ambush. The result is that Skarn flees the battle field grievously injured, but at least Krell is dead. So now from the Wildfang Marauders, only Gralk is around in gigantic form.

As it relates to Indicus and the 3 orc minions, which at this point are the only 3 criminals left on your side, they are making there way towards the Slave Compound on an intercept course with Yukan.

Wildfang Marauders

• Chieftain Gralk Bloodfang:
  • Status: Alive. Used Limiter to turn Gigantic (Change Size E).
  • Intent: Engage. His hunger for chaos and battle would drive him to retaliate even in the face of apparent defeat.
• Krell the Ravager:
  • Status: Wounded by Skarn, but killed by Gralk in collateral damage
• Dara Swiftblade:
  • Status: Alive and Escaped!
  • Intent: Using FAST to head to [Slave Compound]

Crimson Talons:
They received some problems from last night's raid by Indicus, and the harassment by Indicus/Orcs/Zephyr/Golden Tusk Boar in earlier rounds. However, overall they are only lightly hurt with a few wounded members. They are around 75% combat effective at this point, and they are once more coherent under the leadership of [Legionarius Septimus Voss]

• Members: Highly-trained soldiers, rangers, and trappers.
  • Group 1: The Crimson Talons, a professional and menacing force, moved with the synchrony and discipline only achievable through rigorous training and an unbreakable chain of command. Here was an assembly not driven by mere passion but molded by structure and cold strategy.
  • Leader: Legionarius Septimus Voss, an experienced and cold-hearted strategist with a military background, commanded the group. His eyes, hard and calculating, missed nothing, and his commands were precise and demanding. He was a man who had traded his emotions for tactical acumen, and his face bore the lines of countless battles and decisions weighed in the balance of war.
  • Soldier Champion and Unit: The Soldier Champion, Titus Servius, stood tall, flanked by five nameless soldiers. Clad in heavy armor, their movements were practiced and efficient. The loyalty to their leader was evident in their disciplined ranks. Their faces were masked by helmets, their individuality submerged in their roles as parts of a greater whole.
  • Ranger Champion and Unit: Leading the rangers was the keen-eyed Livia Cassia, surrounded by five nameless rangers who mirrored her alertness and precision. They were the eyes and ears of the Talons, their bows at the ready, arrows tipped with deadly intent. The way they scanned the terrain spoke of a deep understanding of their surroundings, a skill honed through relentless practice.
  • Trapper Champion and Unit: Gaius Varro, the Trapper Champion, directed a unit of five nameless trappers, masters of ambush and deceit. They handled their traps and snares with an artist's touch, setting them with deadly accuracy. Their work was silent but deadly, a reflection of their own quiet and meticulous nature.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", "<Beastial>"​

Mentions: gmimperfecti Shadow Dancer

While these events hadn't gone in the most ideal fashion Skarn getting hit and retreating wasn't great, nor was the boar leaving, and Yukan did understand the cautiousness of the scouts not wanting to engage in close quarter combat with the giant nor the Talons should they follow AND Yukan had actually been hoping Indicus would have gotten the message to attract the attention of the large leader in a more direct fashion, Yukan still wasn't out, he had been plotting for this. All he could really hope was that they would eventually come back. He fully meant to keep his word to Zephyr so he owed her an explanation as her role would be essential in the events to come. He had no doubt that they'd be attracting the attention of the Talons and would be running into them on route soon enough.

First, he'd leverage his [Triad Allied Leader] and [Loyal] title toward Zephyr,, as well as the fact one of his actions had been consolidating with her before this operation started. While he continued on the move, trying to keep pace so that the Titan wasn't too far behind but also wasn't directly on him in striking range. He knew very well that in order to keep a form that large he must have had to sacrifice some agility he had in the smaller form, so Yukan would need to take advantage of that fact if he wanted to survive. If anything these were titles he was living up to as this surely was an increasing test of loyalty if anything as the stakes rose higher.

He'd also use Ashigaru's Assurance F.

"I can assure you I am partaking in the dance of shadows and strategy Great Zephyr. and I am assuming a great deal of risk to ensure that our mission is successful..it is a risk I am willing to take to see to it that the Fae See losses are minimized, after all that's what I am here for aren't I? A tool for a means to an end."

"I am not showing my back or retreating from our enemy..for I consider Chief Gralk our unknowing ally..I expect full well the Empire will not take well to an enraged giant criminal known for using intimidation and violence to get what his faction desires...approaching them in such an aggressive fashion since their loyalty only lies in money and unrestrained bloodshed..it's why I imagine their relationship was tenuous to begin with..perhaps they'll assume the worst and believe he was paid off to join our side even if temporarily it will help the set up to come, I don't think Gralk is in the best state of mind to talk diplomatic with them anyway, after all he just killed one of his own in a rage..accidentally or not." He responded quietly in common.

"But this plan..will involve you great Zephyr, for I need your ability to manipulate the mind, when the time comes and the Talons are detectable who are no doubt going to greet us soon enough, if possible, I need for you to drive Gralk into a state of great paranoia and instability..play upon his rage and insecurities and drive him to attack them, It would be especially helpful if we could cripple their strategic higher ranks quickly to lower their morale if they're like any other organized military. if the top starts to fall they may start to fall apart...while possibly more difficult if possible tearing away at the Talon's mental well being as well could prove to be very helpful for this operation."

"I truly believe your help will be pivotal in gaining leverage in our favor here. If it is not meant to be however, then I will gladly die for what I believe is right, knowing that my ancestors will be smiling upon me, and as promised should I fall you will have my last breathe."

Yukan continued to move en route as he had last round, while trying to pace himself for the others.

He then looked to Indicus hoping that he was getting all that for what the plan was.

Relevant titles:
[Triad Allied Leader]
character is one of three to represent values of strength, leadership, and courage.

[Loyal] - character has a tendency to honor agreements/relationships made despite changing circumstances or other options. Character is more likely to have their trust honored. But it will receive increased amounts of testing that may make it hard to endure.

Relevant Bonus:

A strengthened bond with Zephyr, who is now unlikely to abandon Yukan.

Spoiler: Actions:

1. Leverage titles and use Ashigaru's Assurance F to convince Zephyr to aid them once again.
Ashigaru's Assurance- Persuasion F, Leadership F, Law F, Republic of Kuridan Etiquette F- Post cooldown 0
Yukan attempts to appeal to logic, reason and possibly target's desire in order to try to sway their actions and or opinions.
2. Continue on Route pacing self, should they detect the Talons Yukan will stop and assess options, to adapt to the situation.

 

[Uasal]

~'Delta'~

Native, Orphan, Martial Artist, Razor Wire Apprentice, Infamous (Ryke), Attentive Student, Ryken Adventurer F, Intermediate Variant, Apprentice Assassin

Delta stood still in the suffocating darkness, her senses on high alert. The chilling wind that extinguished the torches had not gone unnoticed, and the eerie murmurings that followed sent shivers down her spine. She knew she was not alone in this subterranean realm, and the unseen entities that now surrounded her held ancient knowledge and power.

"Why do you tread where shadows weep, Mortal? Speak, lest the shadows claim you as their own," the whispered words echoed through the abyss. The voices were spectral, otherworldly, and carried with them an undeniable weight of authority.

Delta hesitated, her mind racing for the right words. She was acutely aware that she stood at the precipice of an enigmatic confrontation, one that could either lead her closer to the truth or consume her in the abyss of the unknown.

"I tread where shadows weep to seek both answers and a life to take," Delta replied, her voice steady despite the unease that clawed at her. "I seek the truth that lies hidden in the depths, the secrets that have been veiled by darkness. I seek the one known as Coldclaw for her end has come. My dear Shadow denizens, I am no mere interloper within the shadows you call home; I am an assassin who has become one with them. Or at least has tried to. I ask that you let me pass with the greatest of repects."

The response hung in the air like a silent plea, a testament to her unwavering determination to confront the mysteries that lurked within the Undercellar. She knew that her path was fraught with peril, that the shadows held both enlightenment and danger, and that her journey through this ancient labyrinth was far from over.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus was making his way to the compound as he thought about what he could do and decided to slow just enough to let Yukan catch up to him. From there they would not have to guess at what was needed to be done though Indicus already figured the plan was to lead the big guy to the walls of the enemy camp and let him reign havoc. When Yukan was caught up Indicus spread a little away from him though still within shouting distance

Indicus checked on his wound and took the arrow out being sure the arrow head was not stuck in his flesh. Knowing his wound would heal in a short time. Indicus decided that Yukan could use a break and used his [super strength E] to throw a small rock at the berserking marauder.


OOC: Not sure of time frame though assuming it is not in combat technically.
Anyway Indicus slows down and keeps pace with Yukan then while still heading to the enemy camp he moves away from Yukan though is close enough to shout and then throws a rock at Gralk.

TheTimePiece
gmimperfecti

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 2a: Two Birds with One Illusion (round 6)
Re: Yukan ( TheTimePiece ) with Zephyr VS the Gigantic Gralk. Hopefully Thimble and scouts are somewhere close and haven't abandoned y'all.
Re: Indicus ( Shadow Dancer ) and the trio of orc minions are a running. Inidicus regeneration kicks in.
Re: Crimson Talons are edging out and look like they will arrive before y'all to the [Slave Compound]

---

Zephyr fluttered near Yukan, her wings shimmering with an ethereal glow. Her eyes, often playful, now bore a look of consideration as she listened to Yukan's words. As a being of the air, concepts like loyalty and trust were often ephemeral to her, but with Yukan, it was different. His conviction and the weight of his words drew her in, making her ponder the depth of his intentions.

"*A tool for a means to an end*," she repeated softly, a hint of melancholy tinging her voice. "It is a heavy burden to bear, Yukan Koyake of the Koyake Clan. Yet, in this dance of shadows, it is hard to distinguish friend from foe. Your intentions, they resonate with me. They have a clarity that is rare in these twisted times."

Her gaze lingered on the giant Gralk, the rage evident in every step he took. "Manipulating the mind is not without its risks, especially one as turbulent as Gralk's. However, I can amplify what is already there. His rage, his insecurities, they are like a tempest waiting to be unleashed. If the winds favor us, we might redirect this storm at our enemies."

She then looked pointedly at Yukan, her voice taking a playful yet serious tone. "But remember, while your last breath holds a certain appeal, I would much prefer having you around. It's not every day I find someone as intriguing as you, especially one who values me more than a dragonkin." A smirk played on her lips, teasing.

As they continued, a deep rumbling sounded in the distance, drawing nearer. The very ground seemed to tremble. Gralk, using his gargantuan strength, had uprooted a massive boulder and, with a mighty heave, sent it hurtling towards Yukan and Zephyr. The shadow of the impending projectile grew larger, threatening to squash them beneath its weight.

Gralk's initial target, caught in the heat of Yukan and Zephyr's maneuvering, shifted when a small rock, hurled with significant force, struck him. His gaze, filled with anger and confusion, snapped toward its source: Indicus, who was trailing a bit further from Yukan. The distraction was clear and purposeful.

The massive, gargantuan Gralk roared in fury. That tiny projectile, though insignificant in size compared to his current massive form, represented a challenge, an affront. With a loud battle cry, Gralk stooped down, digging his hands into the ground and ripping out a heart stone of significantly larger size with his humongous hands and, with all his might, hurled it directly at Indicus. This missile flew with even more alarming speed, because Gralk had stopped running to aim first! The shadow it cast turning day to dusk in its path.

Indicus's three orc minions, seeing their leader targeted, acted instinctively. One of them rushed forward, attempting to position himself between the incoming boulder and Indicus, ready to use his body as a shield if need be. Another tried to hurl a spear at the boulder in a futile attempt to deflect its trajectory while the third just dove for cover (+2 team-up bonus).



OOC: Some options to consider and respond to.

1. Boulder Evasion - Yukan + Zephyr
Effectiveness Difficulty Level: 5 (Easy)
Description: As Gralk's hurled boulder speeds towards Yukan + Indicus, they must quickly find a way to evade its massive shadow. Whether they use their agility, magic, or a combination of both, the goal is to avoid getting crushed by the boulder. The size and speed of the boulder, though formidable, is predictable and offers a brief window for evasive action.

---

2. Redirecting Gralk's Rage
Effectiveness Difficulty Level: 7 (Moderate)
Description: Zephyr will team-up with Inidicus, using her ability to manipulate emotions, attempts to amplify Gralk's existing rage towards the Talons. This challenge involves sifting through the cacophony of emotions in Gralk's mind and pinpointing the right threads of anger and resentment. While the sheer intensity of his feelings might assist Zephyr, the challenge lies in ensuring that Gralk's rage is directed specifically at the Talons and not wildly at everything around him, including Yukan and Zephyr themselves.

Note: Zephyr can grant a +1 team-up bonus. However Indicus or Yukan needs to bring the initial effectiveness.

---

3. Heartstone Boulder Evasion - Indicus + 3 orc minions
Effectiveness Difficulty Level: 8 (Hard) -2 (team-up) = 6 (Moderate) to not get hurt. However, if you can get 7+ effectiveness on your own the orc minions won't get as hurt.
Description: As Gralk's even larger heartstone boulder speeds towards Indicus and the three orc minions, they must quickly find a way to evade its massiveness. Whether they use their agility, magic, or a combination of both, the goal is to avoid getting crushed by the boulder. The size and speed of the boulder is much more formidable, and less predictable with a smaller window window for evasive action.

---

4. Ground Collapse into the Undercellar (loss of the Heartstone)
Effectiveness Difficulty Level: 8 (Hard)
Description: Gralk has reached deep into the earth and ripped out a massive Heartstone, a pillar serving an unknown purpose in the Undercellar. Combined with the commotion of the battle, this weakens the ground underneath Yukan and Zephyr. Unbeknownst to them, they are atop a thinly veiled entrance to a section of the Undercellar. As the ground starts to crumble beneath them, the duo must quickly react to avoid falling into the trap-filled depths below or, if they do fall, navigate the sudden descent safely. This challenge tests their agility, quick thinking, and adaptability to unforeseen situations. Should they land inside, they'll find themselves in unfamiliar terrain, surrounded by the ominous air of the Undercellar and possibly close to Coldclaw's hidden operations...

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 2b: A Liberation By Any Means (round6)
Re: Delta ( Uasal ) and the Undercellar.
Re: Coldclaw is somewhere done here...hopefully?!

---

The chilling silence stretched on, feeling as if it would consume her whole. Then, after what felt like an eternity, a ghostly chuckle echoed throughout the vastness of the Undercellar.

“A brave mortal, you are,” came a soft, whispered response. The voice was neither malevolent nor kind, but one of sheer curiosity. “Coldclaw, she is a guest in our ancient halls, paying the ancient pact in blood. Breaching it is costly. You wish to claim her life, and yet, you do not know the full extent of the shadows she's lead you to."

Suddenly, the inky darkness around Delta began to shift, revealing ghostly apparitions of long-forgotten souls. They circled her, their forms shifting between solid and ethereal as they studied the intruder amongst them.

"Seeking Coldclaw, you have entered a [Domain] older than your kind's memories," another spirit whispered. "But there is coin more valuable than blood, Assassin of Shadows. Aid us in releasing the chains that bind us to this place, and perhaps your path to Coldclaw might become very clear."

"The spirits here are weak and hollow, trapped by Coldclaw's machinations, forced to live on bloody scraps. Feed them true blood or freely offer an unbound soul, and you will not only gain allies in your pursuit but also take another step deeper into the secrets of the [Domain of the Undercellar]," a more regal voice, possibly a spirit of higher standing, whispered.

As Delta processed this, golden cracks formed in the distance like hoarfrost on a frigid day. The shadows screamed, echoing through the maze-like chambers. "Or depart like a coward of fate."

Something was happening above and more cracks formed shedding tendrils of daylight; however, the darkness was thick here. The daylight didn't spread but rather looked like suspended fruit in a jello mold.

----

OOC: Challenges/Opportunities for Delta:

1. Lost Spirits' Desires (Difficulty: 5 - Easy)
   1. Description: The spirits circling Delta seem more tangible in areas where the daylight pierces the dark. These spirits, appearing younger and less worn, beckon to her, pointing at the golden cracks. Delta could choose to aid them by expanding the cracks, allowing more light to cleanse the spirits and potentially granting her their favor.
   2. Action: Interact with the golden cracks, or find a method to channel the light into the Undercellar to cleanse the lingering spirits.
2. The Blood Pact (Difficulty: 7 - Moderate)
   1. Description: The older spirits speak of a blood pact Coldclaw honors, which empowers the dark domain and binds these spirits. Delta could choose to disrupt this ritual, weakening the domain and gaining the alliance of the spirits. However, it involves offering her own blood or finding another source.
   2. Action: Seek a suitable place in the Undercellar where the blood pact rituals are conducted, or consider giving a part of her life essence to break the chains.
3. The Unbound Soul's Challenge (Difficulty: 8 - Hard)
   1. Description: Beyond the blood, the most powerful way to aid the spirits is to offer an unbound soul to the Undercellar. This could mean luring an enemy to this realm and defeating them, or perhaps releasing a spirit trapped elsewhere. The rewards for such a sacrifice would be vast, but the risks equally monumental.
   2. Action: Identify a suitable candidate for the soul offering – be it an adversary or an ancient spirit contained within a relic or artifact in the Undercellar – and conduct the ritual.
4. Navigating The Domain's Treachery (Difficulty: 9 - Very Hard)
   1. Description: The Domain of the Undercellar itself is a living entity but one you might not wish to engage with. Ignore it and do it yourself! It has it's own desires and so does Delta. As Delta delves deeper, the realm might sense her intentions and throw numerous obstacles her way – shifting walls, illusions, or even ensnaring traps formed of shadows. Navigating these challenges requires immense agility, wit, and resistance to the domain's mental onslaughts.
   2. Action: Continuously discern reality from illusion, make split-second decisions, and avoid the numerous traps set by the domain to protect its secrets and maintain the status quo.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake
​

gmimperfecti Shadow Dancer
With Indicus throwing the stone and the conversation he had with Zephyr which thankfully hadn't resulted in him getting any retaliation from her, since from what he had heard from stories, It wasn't unlike some. fae to shift and act accordingly if they found themselves losing favor with someone for whatever reason. Yukan had known very well that this had been a gamble, but it was one he was willing to take at the moment. Truthfully this whole series of events had felt like a gamble.

Based on Zephyr's words that was just another risk he would have to take.

"Given our circumstances even if this manipulation doesn't work completely in our favor it'll probably be better than him focusing all his attention on us." Yukan gave his opinion on the matter swiftly, before giving Zephyr a nod while he had presumably been on the move.

"I plan to live well beyond this war, there are many who require my help in the face of oppression, I can not sit by idle and let the humans do as they please, so I would very much like to see it through with you."

His responses were swift given the circumstances, now there were a bunch of things unfolding around them. Indicus had gotten the hint that they needed to attract the chief's attention.

He didn't really have time to properly say more as his eyes widened briefly at seeing the boulder flying at them in response. He had to act quick so that he and Zephyr wouldn't get crushed. Yukan responded with (Acrobatic F + Fast E to dodge the incoming boulder by moving to the right however many ft needed to reasonably dodge it based on what Yukan could see. However it didn't end there, because now it looked like the ground was shifting beneath them and Yukan wasn't sure if his movement had been sufficient to prevent what happened next.
Regardless of what happened to him, Zephyr and Indicus knew what they needed to do presumably, had he been paying attention to what Yukan said, they needed to redirect Gralk's rage toward the Crimson Talons rather than themselves so that he'd hopefully wipe some of them out. Yukan didn't exactly have time to verbalize further, instead he took out what appeared to be a strange small bird head from his sash, it was something he had been given by a rather eccentric elder back in Kuridan, telling him that it would serve him well when he needed help the most, so Yukan attempted to use the strange bird head in this moment. There was quite a bit of faith required to think this was actually going to do anything but nevertheless he tried to use Eight's Turkey Head power of Golden Luck to turn the tide in his favor so that whatever was unfolding below him wouldn't result in him falling into the unknown in a precarious situation which was disadvantageous . If it didn't outright prevent him from going down, maybe he'd end up somewhere helpful instead, it was anyone's guess with the once great monster's head now in play.

Eight's Turkey Head (Consumable)
Upon consumption, for one turn, channel the great power of the Great Turkey, Eight. from the Turkey Mayhem 2022 Event once.
Upon use, choose one of two abilities:

• Preventative Measure - Be able to respond to an ambush.
• Golden Luck - One lucky bonus.

Spoiler: Actions

1. Yukan uses Acrobatic F+ Fast E to try to dodge the boulder however many ft are reasonable to avoid. [
2. Yukan uses the Golden Luck ability of Eight's Turkey Head, part of a once monstrous turkey in order to increase his odds of something better than the worst outcome from transpiring with the ground collapsing into the underceller situation.
Cooldowns: E: (0/1) /SPOILER]

 

[Uasal]

~'Delta'~

Native, Orphan, Martial Artist, Razor Wire Apprentice, Infamous (Ryke), Attentive Student, Ryken Adventurer F, Intermediate Variant, Apprentice Assassin

Delta remained poised in the face of the apparitions and the cryptic words they whispered. The shifting, ghostly figures, and their ethereal voices revealed that the Undercellar was not just a physical place but a realm where time and existence had intertwined, a domain tied to ancient pacts and secrets. It was a realm of lost souls, seeking release from the chains that bound them.

"Coldclaw," Delta thought, her mind racing. The dominus was not just a ruler of a slave compound but a keeper of secrets that spanned centuries, secrets that had ensnared the very essence of this place. Delta knew that she was on the brink of unraveling something far greater than she had ever imagined, and her pursuit of Coldclaw was now intricately linked to the liberation of these tormented souls. Their liberation or...

"I am a seeker of power and revelation," Delta replied to the spirits, her voice unwavering. "My objective is the elimination of Coldclaw, but my aspirations are rooted far deeper than that. I wish to grow strong, to claw my way to the top of my organization, and to do that I require a weapon far stronger than that of my wire alone. I require intel, allies, and secrets lost to the shadows. Secrets you all could supply me with... I will liberate you from this place, all of you. But in return, you must bind yourselves to me instead. You will be my eyes and ears across all of Ryke. You will have greater freedom than you do now."

The daylight struggling to penetrate the darkness above signaled that the world outside was in motion. Time was of the essence, and the secrets of the Undercellar beckoned her. Delta was ready to tread this path, where shadows weep and secrets abound. She would continue her journey through the labyrinthine realm, all while keeping her purpose clear - power and revelation, no matter the cost.

"Speak then shadows, will you accept my offer and aid or stand against me?"

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus felt his [danger sense] flair and combined with the rumbling of the ground Indicus trusted his [Perception F] and senses and preformed a [Reflexive dodge F] Indicus had to admire the orcs attempts to help and could not blame one for trying to hide but now he had moments and so Indicus put all his strength [Super Strength E] into his legs to help him run [Fast F]. Then with the buildup of momentum Indicus jumped [Jumping F] while using his wings [Flying F] to gain a little more distance from the impact. All the while he made the attempt to help the orcs escape the impact as well. Any stray impacts Indicus counted on his scales to absorb [Defend (light armor F]

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 3: Undercellular Reunion (Round 1)
Outside: Shadow Dancer and the orcs
Undercellar -1: TheTimePiece and Zephyr
Undercellar -2: Uasal and the nameless darkness.

Re: Coldclaw is somewhere down here...hopefully?!

---

Indicus's senses flared. There was something monumental about the way the ground trembled, a sensation of impending doom. Trusting his instincts and combining them with the sharpness of his perception, he spotted the enormous heartstone boulder Gralk had hurled. It was larger, more menacing, and cutting through the air with terrifying speed.

The orc minions beside him exchanged glances of sheer panic. One of them, a young warrior with a fresh scar across his cheek, exclaimed, "By Grommash's hammer, we're done for!"

Another, an older orc with graying hair and a chipped tusk, shouted, "Move, you whelps! Don't just stand there gawking!"

Without hesitation, Indicus's muscles coiled. The raw power of his superhuman strength surged through his legs as he took off, running at a speed that would have left any normal being in the dust. Using that momentum, he jumped with all his might, his wings unfurling to give him that extra lift.

The force of his jump and the added thrust from his wings ensured he was airborne just in time. Looking over his shoulder, he could see the boulder crash with a force that sent shockwaves radiating outwards.

But the orcs. Indicus had tried to guide them, to encourage them to flee with him. And for the most part, they had heeded the call. Two managed to dive to safety, narrowly avoiding the boulder's path. The youngest, however, was a tad slower. The aftershock sent him sprawling, though, thankfully, he seemed more dazed than injured.

The older orc rushed to the young one's side, dragging him to his feet. "Thank Morog, you're alright!" he grunted, clapping the younger one on the back.

Indicus landed gracefully a safe distance away, turning to assess the situation. The dust was settling, and the aftermath of Gralk's fury was clear.

---

Meanwhile, the gargantuan boulder, propelled with brutal strength by Gralk, careened through the air toward Yukan and Zephyr. The ground trembled beneath its shadow, foretelling doom. Yukan's muscles flexed as he moved swiftly, with an acrobat's precision, dragging Zephyr to the right to avoid the devastating impact. The sheer force of Gralk's throw caused the earth to shake, and, as they dodged, the ground beneath them began to shift and churn.

As the boulder missed them by a hair's breadth, the earth couldn't hold anymore. A maw opened beneath their feet, revealing the dark void of the Undercellar. Gralk's roar of frustration was drowned by the sound of collapsing earth, and Yukan was plummeting into the abyss.

In this split second of life or death, Yukan unveiled the Eight's Turkey Head. The time had come to place his faith in the old gift. He chose the power of Golden Luck. As the consuming dark surrounded them, the power of the Great Turkey pulsed. The strange luck emanating from the item seemed to take hold.

Instead of the deadly spikes or trap-laden floors he might've expected from such a treacherous drop, Yukan and Zephyr landed into a pair of abandoned plush leather arm chairs. The muted rays of dawn's light revealed they were in a vast chamber of the Undercellar, surrounded by long-forgotten relics, bodies chained to pillars, and other signs of sacrificial blood rituals. And, most importantly, a series of pathways leading deeper into the Undercellar’s heart.

Above them, the crack that had brought them here continued to spread towards Gralk, even as Gralk roared in frustration. The ground's continued collapse took him by surprise, and, unable to halt his forward momentum teetered towards the ancient ritualistic circle where the darkness was deepest within its depths. The circle barely containing some dread, dark entity which Gralk tumbled into. The impact was so great that the circle cracked and the ground it was upon also shattered and the pair were carried even deeper into the Undercellar!

That's where their luck ended as the ground above seemed to be healing, the cracks and lost ceiling somehow restoring itself closing back off the outside world above.

---

As Delta issued her proclamation, the atmosphere within the Undercellar thickened with tension. The ethereal figures, which had initially circled her with quiet curiosity, now ceased their movement entirely. The regal spirit, the one who had spoken of Coldclaw's machinations, floated forward, separating itself from the rest. Its form was more defined than the others, suggesting a spirit of greater influence and power.

For a moment, there was only stillness, a sense of anticipation that hung heavily in the air. Then, the spirit responded, its voice echoing, filled with ancient wisdom and an undercurrent of sorrow. "Your ambition burns fiercely, Assassin of Shadows. Many have ventured into our domain with promises of liberation, only to fall victim to the chains that bind us. Yet, your proposal offers a different path, a merging of desires that could benefit both sides."

As it spoke, the surrounding spirits murmured among themselves, some nodding in agreement while others whispered their reservations. Their collective voices were like a gust of wind, a chorus of the past, filled with pain and longing for freedom.

Before the regal spirit could offer further insights or acceptance, the ground trembled beneath them. A loud crash resonated through the Undercellar, as though a force of great magnitude had shattered a barrier above. Debris rained down, and the thick shadowy atmosphere was pierced by a sudden shaft of daylight, momentarily blinding Delta.

When her vision cleared, she found herself staring up at a massive form. Gralk, the colossal chief, had inadvertently breached the second level of the Undercellar with his tremendous weight. His bewildered expression was a stark contrast to his earlier fury, clearly taken aback by this unexpected fall into an unknown realm.

The spirits scattered in alarm, their forms flickering and wavering as they tried to evade the intruding presence. The regal spirit, however, held its ground, its gaze shifting between Delta and Gralk, processing the unexpected turn of events.

"Assassin of Shadows," it whispered urgently, "this interruption may have altered our course. But remember, the ties that bind are not easily severed. Our pact remains, but it is you who must decide how to proceed from here, with the unexpected presence of this giant."

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus looked around to get his bearings and he saw the large crack in the earth the giant was nowhere to be seen presumably having fallen. Indicus watched as the tear in the earth mended itself, with another look over the area he saw the three orcs dazed but mostly unharmed and for that Indicus was glad he could help them survive too many had died under him so far and he was hoping to avoid further casualties as futile as it seemed.

Having slowed down to think Indicus relized that these three orcs and maybe a handful of others were possibly the only survivors of the orc mercenary band that he had drinks with the other night. A somber realization that reminded him of the realities of the world no matter if it was this new one he found himself in or the world he came from, life was cheap.

 

[Uasal]

~'Delta'~

Native, Orphan, Martial Artist, Razor Wire Apprentice, Infamous (Ryke), Attentive Student, Ryken Adventurer F, Intermediate Variant, Apprentice Assassin

As Gralk, the colossal chief, loomed above, his eyes filled with confusion and disbelief, Delta moved with swift and silent grace. Her razor wire glinted in the eerie half-light of the Undercellar, a deadly instrument in her deft hands.

With a quiet, almost sorrowful apology on her lips, she approached Gralk. "Thank you for being the catalyst," she whispered to the bewildered giant, her voice barely audible above the tumult of the spirits and Gralk's own thundering heartbeat. "Your sacrifice will fuel my power and strength."

With a quick, precise motion, she drew the razor wire across Gralk's massive neck. The blade, sharpened to perfection, cut through flesh and sinew as easily as it did her enemies' hopes. Gralk's eyes widened in shock, and his hands instinctively reached for the gaping wound, but it was too late. His lifeblood spilled out, mingling with the shadows of the Undercellar.

Delta stood beside the fallen giant, her emotions hidden behind a mask of determination. Gralk's life had been extinguished, and his massive form lay lifeless in the darkness. The giant had unwittingly become a sacrifice to further her power and strength, an offering to the shadows that dwelled in the depths of the [Domain of the Undercellar].

With the giant's sacrifice, Delta was ready to continue her journey. The path to Coldclaw and the secrets hidden within the Undercellar would be aided by the shadows and the newfound strength she had gained.

Turning to the shadows she motioned to the corpse "There's your sacrifice. Now to halt Coldclaws own and end her. show me the way"

gmimperfecti

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake
​

Interactions: gmimperfecti

Mentions: Uasal Shadow Dancer

Yukan’s heart had been racing through that whole ordeal. From the careening boulder which barely missed the duo, to now the earth literally opening beneath them and him clutching the weird turkey head which hopefully wasn’t just a superstition and would actually do something, Yukan found himself falling into the dark abyss, the only company he knew he had for sure at this point ws Zephyr as he was promptly separated from the others.

Instead of landing to his death or surrounded by enemies however after trying to brace himself for the fall he and Zephyr fell into what appeared to be rather harmless leather armchairs. This prompted Yukan to let out an audible sigh of relief upon this realization, feeling his heart still pounding.

Yukan hadn’t quite been expecting Gralk to literally fall through the earth but he did, going down significantly farther than they had. On one hand it was nice to not have to fight himself at the moment, but on the other hand, it meant that executing his plan wasn’t exactly going to work if the big guy was dead now. What Yukan also wasn’t privy too was the fact that they just happened to accidentally help Delta get the offering that she needed to hopefully succeed in what she was doing.

What was somewhat disturbing besides the general whole living being sacrifice vibe he had beengetting from the bodies and the occulty looking items around them was how the earth and floor seemed to health itself almost like it was organic.

He hoped that Indicus would keep those orcs safe given the fact they needed them to help free the slaves since they could afford acquiring criminal titles being part of the monstrous tribe of sorts. He also wasn’t sure how much more support they’d get from the Fae See all the way in here now.

“Great Zephyr..do you have any idea what’s transpired here?..Are you okay?”

Yukan would ask matter of fact to her, given the events the question seemed appropriate, but he spoke softly, unsure if there were any enemies around them nearby.

He got himself up and looked around with his Dark Vision F where necessary to try to discern more detail from the surrounding area, also simultaneously sniffing with his Enhanced sense of Smell F to see if he could get any information from that, before standing up and looking around the chamber some more. Perhaps they could find a path somewhere useful.

“Something nefarious has been taking place here, even I wouldn’t have thought the Empire would stoop to such barbaric levels..”

Yukan further commented, after making sure they were in fact okay after being sent farther thanks to Gralk’s descent.

“Maybe we’ll be able to execute our plan under the Talon’s noses..if we’re lucky they’ll assume we’re dead.”

He further added, hoping to find a path or something with his enhanced senses, getting ready to move out if it was possible.

Spoiler: Actions

Actions:
1.Get up after finishing falling.
2. Used Enhanced Smell and DarkVision F to try to discern helpful details to progress.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 3: Undercellular Reunion (Round 2)

------------------------------------------------------------
-- Outside: Shadow Dancer and the orcs --
------------------------------------------------------------

Outside, amidst the slowly healing landscape, Indicus and the three orc minions surveyed the aftermath of the tumultuous events. The once gaping fissure in the earth, a remnant of the giant Gralk's fall, was now closing, stitching itself together as if guided by an unseen hand. The scene was a vivid reminder of the volatile magic that pervaded this land.

Indicus, his posture embodying both relief and weariness, watched with a mixture of awe and somber reflection as the ground mended itself. It was a testament to the unpredictable and often dangerous nature of the forces at play in this world, forces that could reshape the very earth in a matter of moments.

The three orcs, dazed but mostly unharmed, gathered around him. Their expressions were a mix of confusion and gratitude, their gazes shifting between Indicus and the now-sealed earth. They were rough and battle-hardened, yet the miraculous survival and the loss of their comrades seemed to have struck a chord in their rugged hearts.

One of the orcs, a burly figure with a scar running down his left eye, spoke up in a gruff voice, "That was too close, Dragonkin. You saved us, but... too many didn't make it." His words trailed off, the reality of their situation sinking in.

Another orc, younger and less scarred, clenched his fists, his voice tinged with anger and sorrow. "They were our brothers. We drink to their memory and then avenge them. The Talons, the Empire... they will pay for this."

The third orc, silent till now, nodded solemnly, his eyes hardening with resolve. "We follow you, Indicus. You lead us to survival this time. We trust your command."

------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Undercellar -1: TheTimePiece and Zephyr --
------------------------------------------------------------------

The first level below the ground, where Yukan and Zephyr had inadvertently landed, was a stark contrast to the world above. The chamber they found themselves in was vast, with high ceilings supported by massive, ancient pillars. The air was thick with a musty, earthy scent, and the faint sound of distant, dripping water echoed through the expansive space. Faint luminescent fungi clung to the walls, casting a ghostly glow that allowed Yukan's Dark Vision to reveal the room's secrets.

As Yukan surveyed the area, his enhanced sense of smell picked up a medley of odors – damp stone, old blood, and a faint metallic tang that hinted at long-unused weapons or tools. The chamber seemed to be a forgotten part of a much larger complex, with tunnels leading off in various directions, shrouded in darkness.

Zephyr, who had been inspecting a nearby wall, turned towards Yukan, her expression a blend of curiosity and concern. "I'm unharmed, Yukan," she replied, her voice echoing slightly in the vast chamber. "As for what has transpired here... this place reeks of secrets and old magic. The Empire... they're delving into something ancient, something they perhaps do not fully understand."

She moved closer to Yukan, her steps graceful and silent. "This is no ordinary part of their operations. There's a weight to this place, a heaviness that speaks of old power. We might be beneath the Slave Compound, but this... this is something else."

Zephyr's gaze drifted to the tunnels. "We should be cautious. This place, it's like a spider's web, and we're not the only ones caught in it. I can feel the threads of magic woven through these halls. Whoever controls it, holds a dangerous advantage."

As they conversed, a distant rumble echoed through the chamber, followed by the sound of something massive crashing through levels above. The ground beneath their feet trembled slightly, dust and small stones falling from the ceiling. Zephyr's eyes narrowed. "That... didn't sound like any regular skirmish. We should move carefully, Yukan. We're not alone down here, and I doubt our uninvited guests are friendly."

The chamber, with its hidden paths and ancient aura, was not just a forgotten relic – it was a nexus of something much more profound and potentially dangerous. Their journey through the underbelly of the Empire's machinations had just begun.

Yukan further commented, after making sure they were in fact okay after being sent farther thanks to Gralk’s descent.

“Maybe we’ll be able to execute our plan under the Talton’s noses..if we’re lucky they’ll assume we’re dead.”

He further added, hoping to find a path or something with his enhanced senses, getting ready to move out if it was possible.

Yukan's words resonated in the shadowy expanse of the underground chamber, his optimism a stark contrast to the oppressive air around them. Zephyr nodded, her eyes scanning the dark corridors that branched off from the central area.

"It's possible," she mused, her voice a whisper in the gloom. "If the Talons believe we're out of the picture, they might lower their guard. That could give us the opportunity we need to strike where they least expect it."

As Yukan prepared to move out, utilizing his enhanced senses, Zephyr stayed close, her own keen awareness complementing his. The chamber, with its ancient stones and eerie silence, seemed to hold its breath, waiting for their next move.

Yukan's eyes, aided by his dark vision, began to pick out details in the darkness. One of the tunnels, less foreboding than the others, seemed to lead steadily upwards. A faint draft of fresher air suggested it might be a way back to the surface, or at least closer to where the Talons were likely operating.

Meanwhile, his enhanced sense of smell detected the faintest hint of something... different. Not the musty dampness of the underground, but a sharper, more metallic scent. It wasn't blood, but something equally indicative of the Empire's activities – perhaps the smell of cold iron or alchemical substances used in their darker ventures.

"We should head this way," Yukan suggested, gesturing towards the less ominous tunnel. "The air feels fresher, and it might lead us closer to the Talons... or whatever else lurks in this place."

Spoiler: OOC - Yukan Challenges

As Yukan and Zephyr navigate the dimly lit tunnel, three distinct choice points emerge, each presenting its own set of challenges and potential rewards:

1. Uncovering Hidden Surveillance (Difficulty Level: 6 - Moderate)
   • Description: Yukan senses a faint magical aura, suggesting the presence of hidden surveillance or traps. Disabling these without alerting the Talons requires a careful blend of stealth and magical prowess. If successful, they could gain valuable intelligence or find a safer path.
   • Challenge: Detect and safely disable hidden surveillance or traps without triggering any alarms.
2. Encounter with a Forgotten Entity (Difficulty Level: 9 - Hard)
   • Description: A powerful, forgotten entity, perhaps a guardian or a prisoner of the Talons, lurks in one of the branching corridors. Engaging with this entity could provide critical insights or powerful allies, but the risk of combat or negotiation under these circumstances is high.
   • Challenge: Decide whether to engage or avoid the entity. If engaging, navigate the complex interaction (combat or diplomacy) with an unknown, potentially powerful being.
3. Navigating a Collapsing Section (Difficulty Level: 7 - Moderate)
   • Description: Part of the tunnel shows signs of instability, possibly due to the recent disturbances above. Braving this path could lead to a shortcut or a strategic vantage point, but there's a significant risk of cave-ins or getting lost in newly formed passageways.
   • Challenge: Successfully navigate through the unstable section without causing a collapse or getting lost, leveraging agility and spatial awareness.

Each choice requires careful consideration, as the outcome could significantly impact their mission and survival in the dark depths of the Undercellar.

---

------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Undercellar -2: Uasal and the Darkest Spirit --
------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the stygian depths of the Undercellar, the atmosphere shifted palpably as Gralk's life ebbed away under Delta's merciless blade. The razor wire, a silent and deadly harbinger, had claimed another soul, but this one was far from ordinary. Gralk's massive form, now just an empty husk, lay sprawled in the darkness, his blood seeping into the ancient stones of the Undercellar. His giant body gushing gallons of blood.

The ghostly apparitions, once bound to the whims of Coldclaw, began to stir with newfound vigor. They circled Delta and the fallen giant, their forms shimmering with ethereal energy. The air crackled with an unseen power, the whispers of the spirits growing louder, more insistent.

"You have done what few dared to dream," spoke the regal spirit, its voice resonating with an ancient wisdom. "The chains that held us are weakened by this unbound soul. The balance shifts in your favor, Shadow Assassin."

Delta, her senses heightened by the events that unfolded, turned to the spirits, her gaze resolute. "There's your sacrifice," she stated, motioning towards Gralk's lifeless body. "Now, guide me to Coldclaw. Let's end her reign and her pacts."

As she spoke, the spirits began to coalesce, forming a ghostly procession that illuminated a previously unseen path. The way forward was now clear, lit by the spectral light of the unchained spirits. It was a path that led deeper into the Undercellar, towards the heart of Coldclaw's dark operations.

Delta followed the spectral procession, her steps measured and silent. The Undercellar revealed its secrets one by one, the shadows parting to show her the way. The eerie glow of the spirits cast long, dancing shadows on the walls, creating a surreal landscape that seemed to exist beyond the bounds of reality.

As she progressed, the temperature dropped, a chill permeating the air. The path twisted and turned, leading her through forgotten chambers and past relics of a bygone era. The spirits' light flickered over ancient inscriptions and long-abandoned altars, each telling a story of power, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between light and dark.

Finally, the procession halted before a heavy, iron-bound door. Beyond it lay the culmination of Delta's journey: the heart of Coldclaw's domain. The spirits hovered around the door, their light casting an otherworldly glow on its surface.

"This is where your path leads," whispered the regal spirit. "Beyond this door, you will find what you seek. But be warned, Shadow Assassin, the darkness within is not easily vanquished."

The door leads to many paths, laying her hand upon it, phantom images flash at the periphery of her vision. She encounters echoes of past events that played out in the Undercellar. These ghostly reenactments pick at psyche hinting at a dark history of Coldclaw and the Undercellar. They are disorienting and emotionally taxing, like a living nightmare however there are secrets to be found if Delta lets herself become witness to the cruelty and suffering that has happened beyond this door.

Spoiler: The Echoes of the Past

1. The Echoes of the Past (Difficulty: 7 - Moderate)
   • Action: Delta must navigate through these echoes without losing her sense of self or her mission. Understanding these past events may provide insight into Coldclaw’s motivations and weaknesses, but it also risks overwhelming Delta with the horror and sadness they convey.
   • Gain: Understand what Coldclaw is really after.
     • Power and Influence Within the Empire: Coldclaw's primary goal appears to be increasing her standing and influence within the Empire. She is likely involved in political machinations, seeking to gain favor with powerful figures or to undermine rivals. Knowing the specifics of these political ambitions could enable Delta to disrupt Coldclaw's plans or use them to manipulate her.
     • Research into Forbidden Magics: Coldclaw shows a keen interest in dark and forbidden magics, which she uses to enhance her power and control. This could involve experiments on living beings, the creation of powerful artifacts, or the search for ancient, hidden knowledge. Delta could exploit this by sabotaging Coldclaw's experiments, stealing or destroying her research, or using her thirst for arcane knowledge as a lure.
     • Secret Pact with Dark Forces: The Undercellar's existence and its connection to ancient spirits suggest Coldclaw may have entered into pacts with dark, otherworldly entities. These pacts could be a source of her power but might also come with dangerous stipulations or vulnerabilities. Delta could use this information to break these pacts or turn these entities against Coldclaw.
     • Personal Vendetta or Mission: Coldclaw might be driven by a personal vendetta or a mission tied to her past. This could be revenge against a particular group or individual, or a mission entrusted to her by a mentor or ancestor. Understanding her personal motivations could provide Delta with emotional leverage or the means to distract or demoralize her.
     • Collection of Powerful Relics or Artifacts: Coldclaw could be collecting artifacts of significant power, either for personal use or as part of a larger scheme. These artifacts, if discovered, could be key to undermining her power or could be used as bargaining chips.

Spoiler: What lies beyond the door

Beyond the heavy iron-bound door, Delta found herself stepping into an environment that was a stark contrast to the labyrinthine passages she had navigated. The room was vast, its dimensions hard to discern due to the enveloping darkness that seemed to absorb the scant light filtering in from sparse, flickering torches mounted on the walls.

As her eyes adjusted, Delta noted the room's grandeur, albeit of a somber and macabre nature. The ceiling arched high above, lost in shadows, creating a sense of an endless void overhead. The walls were lined with ancient tapestries, their imagery faded but still hinting at tales of power, betrayal, and dark rituals. Between the tapestries, shelves and alcoves held an assortment of artifacts – some radiating faint magical auras, others merely relics of a bygone era.

The air was thick with a sense of age and decay, yet underlaid with a pulsating energy that spoke of powerful magics at work. The atmosphere was heavy, imbued with a sense of expectancy, as if the room itself was aware of Delta's intrusion and the potential upheaval it signified.

In the center of the room, dominating the space, stood an altar. It was an imposing structure, crafted from a dark stone that seemed to drink in the light. Intricate carvings adorned its sides, depicting scenes of sacrifice and arcane ceremonies. Upon the altar lay an assortment of objects: a ceremonial dagger with a handle shaped like a twisting serpent, a set of weathered bones arranged in a cryptic pattern, and a large, leather-bound tome, its pages open as if waiting to divulge its secrets.

The far end of the room was shrouded in deeper shadow, obscuring whatever might lie beyond. Occasional movements, mere flickers in the periphery of vision, suggested that Delta was not alone in this room. Whether these presences were physical beings or mere echoes of the past, she could not yet tell.

This chamber, hidden beneath layers of history and darkness, was a place of power and secrets. It was a room that had witnessed countless unspoken rituals and held the echoes of myriad whispered pacts. For Delta, it represented both a culmination of her journey into the depths of the Undercellar and a new, potentially perilous stage in her quest to confront Dominus Coldclaw.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", <Beastial>"​

gmimperfecti
As Yukan continued to observe the surroundings he listened to what the great Zephyr had to tell him carefully. He was relieved to hear that she had been unharmed, in part because he was thankful for her aid and the fact she had shown him leniency, but also because he felt that he'd probably need her assistance moving forward in this seemingly increasingly dangerous environment. Granted it still felt like it was better to be up here, than facing off against all of the Talon units with such little support with what transpired above. That wasn't exactly the most reassuring statement for Yukan to hear Zephyr say, in that there was magic woven throughout. Magic was something which the beast man had encountered on more than one occasion and something which he had very little experience with or really an understanding of beyond the most basic concepts. It made him think perhaps there would be value in acquiring more knowledge about it.

It sounded like Zephyr was on a similar thought pattern as he was that whatever the Empire was meddling with, it was probably far more dangerous as a risk than working with the monster he had earlier. This was something which felt inherently wrong. "Your words are taken with great consideration Zephyr, thank you." He replied once she had said the data pieces up through the bit of it not being an ordinary skirmish. This truly was deviating from the original plan, but it was a quality of a good leader which would now be tested, the ability to adapt and make the most of it.

The strange smells weren't particularly reassuring either, nor was the faint magical aura he had detected. Then there was also the sense that there was something very powerful nearby. Yukan had already tried earlier to get important pieces on their side and it hadn't been all to successful unfortunately. As much as he was tempted to see whatever was causing that sensation, but ultimately Yukan decided there were only so many close calls they needed to take that day with the initial plan going so suboptimally. He would need to hone his social abilities further no doubt, Yukan reflected to himself. He avoided whatever the being was for now.

Instead he set his sights on trying to discern if there were any traps or surveillance which they needed to be wary about by once again honing a combination of his dark vision, and enhanced sense of smell.

"While this path is more risky, I believe given that it has not been maintained we are less likely to trigger traps or alert our enemies if we go this way..on the merit that they would not expect someone to take this path." Yukan rationalized, before he headed toward unstable area.

"Lets exercise additional caution here." Yukan then after checking to see if things at least looked safe enough, he began his journey across the unstable section, which would hopefully lead him and Zephyr somewhere of use. In order to do this, he leveraged his Dark Vision F, Acrobatic skills ,and Fast E to try to make his way across.

Spoiler: Actions

1 & 2: Darkvision F+ Enhanced Sense of Smell F to discern for potential traps/surveillance on way moving to unstable tunnel area.
3. Use Tanuki Trot ability to try to clear Navigating a Collapsed section option.
Tanuki Trot - Fast E, Acrobatics F, Darkvision F - Grade E 1 Post Cooldown
Yukan leverages advantages of his Tanuki heritage to help him navigate an area requiring more precision to get through.
/SPOILER]

 

[gmimperfecti]

Scene 3: Beyond the Deepest Door. Round 1
Undercellar -2: (new arrivals) TheTimePiece and Zephyr
Undercellar -2: (already there) Uasal and the Darkest Spirit

---

In the dimly lit corridors of the Undercellar, Yukan's keen senses and careful observation paid off. The faint magical aura he detected hinted at hidden surveillance or traps, a sign of the dangers lurking in the shadowy depths. His decision to avoid the powerful presence he sensed was a calculated one, opting for a path that seemed less traveled and, therefore, less likely to be monitored or rigged with traps.

With Zephyr at his side, they moved cautiously through the unstable areas, Yukan relying on his Dark Vision and Acrobatics to navigate the treacherous terrain. His enhanced sense of smell proved invaluable, helping him detect subtle changes in the air that might indicate hidden dangers. Zephyr, for her part, remained alert and watchful, her own abilities complementing Yukan's.

"While this path is more risky, I believe given that it has not been maintained we are less likely to trigger traps or alert our enemies if we go this way..on the merit that they would not expect someone to take this path." Yukan rationalized, before he headed toward unstable area.

Zephyr cocked her head, listening for the movement of air and the passage of a breeze but found none. "There are rumors of corrupted elements." She tilted her head looking at Yukan for a moment, "Grave-Dirt, Cold Wind, Pyre-Flame, and Tear-Stained." Zephyr shivered, "This place does not feel natural." Zephyr wove through the air closer to Yukan, inhaling his breath and sighed.

"Let's exercise additional caution here." Yukan then after checking to see if things at least looked safe enough. As they progressed, the path became increasingly difficult to traverse. The ground underfoot was uneven, and in places, it seemed almost as if it could give way at any moment. Yukan's agility and quick reflexes served him well, allowing him to avoid potential pitfalls and lead the way safely.

Their journey was a mixture of abattoir of blood rites and the silence of empty halls stitched together by neglected corridors. Occasionally there were odd scenes like the pair of arm chairs that Yukan and Zephyr had fallen into, these scenes were random and banal. It was hard to chart their progress, but it came to a halt before a large, ornate door. The door was imposing, its surface adorned with intricate carvings and symbols that hinted at the significance of what lay beyond. Yukan and Zephyr exchanged glances, both aware that they had stumbled upon something crucial.

Zephyr, intrigued by the discovery, commented with a mixture of curiosity and caution, "Whatever lies beyond, it's likely the heart of the Undercellar, and possibly to Coldclaw herself," she murmured.

Laying a hand upon it, caused phantom images to flash at the periphery of ones vision. Echoes of past events play out at the periphery of ones vision. These ghostly reenactments pick at ones psyche hinting at a dark history of Coldclaw and the Undercellar. They are disorienting and emotionally taxing, like a living nightmare however there are secrets to be found if one lets oneself become witness to the cruelty and suffering that has happened beyond this door.

Spoiler: The Echoes of the Past

1. The Echoes of the Past (Difficulty: 7 - Moderate)
   • Action: Navigating through these echoes without losing your sense of self or your mission is the chief challenge. Understanding these past events may provide insight into Coldclaw’s motivations and weaknesses, but it also risks overwhelming oneself with the horror and sadness they convey.
   • 6+ Gain: Gain Intel about weak points and opportunities (Narration Goal!) and bonus of +1 out of combat (social discussions, etc).
     • Power and Influence Within the Empire: Coldclaw's primary goal appears to be increasing her standing and influence within the Empire. She is involved in political machinations, seeking to gain favor with powerful figures and to undermine rivals. Knowing the specifics of these political ambitions will enable you to disrupt Coldclaw's plans or use them to manipulate her.
     • Research into Forbidden Magics: Coldclaw shows a keen interest in dark and forbidden magics, which she uses to enhance her power and control. This involves experiments on living beings through hidden knowledge to create a permanent bond with the Undercellar and control over it's denizens (trapped souls). You could exploit this by sabotaging Coldclaw's experiments, stealing or destroying her research, or using her thirst for arcane knowledge as a lure.
   • 7+ Gain one of the following per player: Understand what Coldclaw is really after granting +1 on actions against Coldclaw or the Undercellar.
     • Secret Pact with Dark Forces: The Undercellar's existence and its connection to ancient spirits means Coldclaw has entered into pacts with dark, otherworldly entities. These pacts are the source of her power but also comes with dangerous stipulations and vulnerabilities. She must continue to sate the Dark Forces's hunger with the souls of innocents (i.e. slaves!). You could use this information to stunt during combat in any of various creative ways. +1 during combat.
     • Personal Vendetta: Coldclaw is driven by a personal vendetta tied to her past: the torture of her family at the hand of monsters and unspeakable acts performed on her by their fanatcal, human hating dark fae master. Understanding her personal motivations could provide you with emotional leverage or the means to distract or demoralize her. (-2 debuff to Coldclaw if used effectively in a stunt against Coldclaw).
     • Collection of Powerful Relics or Artifacts: Coldclaw has gathered a Ledger of Souls for personal use and as part of a larger scheme. This artifact, if discovered, could be key to undermining her power or could be used as bargaining chips. (understand how to use it and what it looks like)

Spoiler: What lies beyond the door

Beyond the heavy iron-bound door, the environment transformed starkly from the labyrinthine passages previously navigated. The room was vast, its dimensions difficult to discern due to the enveloping darkness that seemed to swallow the scant light from sparse, flickering torches on the walls.

As eyes adjusted, the room's grandeur became apparent, albeit somber and macabre. The ceiling arched into shadows, creating an impression of an endless void. Ancient tapestries lined the walls, their imagery faded but whispering tales of power, betrayal, and dark rituals. Between these tapestries, shelves and alcoves cradled an assortment of artifacts – some faintly glowing with magic, others mere relics of forgotten times.

The air felt thick with age and decay, yet pulsed with an energy indicating powerful magics. The atmosphere was heavy, charged with expectancy, as if the room itself was sentient, aware of the intrusion and the potential upheaval it signified.

Dominating the space was an altar in the room's center, crafted from dark stone that seemed to absorb light. Its sides were adorned with intricate carvings of sacrifice and arcane ceremonies. The altar held various objects: a ceremonial dagger with a serpentine handle, weathered bones in a cryptic arrangement, and a large, leather-bound tome, its pages open as if ready to divulge secrets.

The room's far end was shrouded in deeper darkness, concealing its contents. Flickers at the edge of vision suggested a presence, or multiple presences, within the room, although it was unclear whether these were physical entities or echoes of the past.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus quietly thought about how they were to find Yukan since the wound in the world was now healed. Of course he really did not know where to start there and he was left with himself and three orcs. So attacking the talons head on was out of the question but he still had the reason they were doing all this in the first place so for now the best bet was to make their way to the Talons base and plan from there.

"We still have slaves to free, for the moment we need to get to the Talons base. Problem is there are four of us and the field is too open. Our best bet is curb around to another side, any of you three familiar enough with the area to know if there are any forests in the area we could use?"

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", <Beastial>"
​

gmimperfecti Uasal Shadow Dancer

Yukan tried his best to pay attention to what was going on, and it looked like it paid off, not only his thought that a less maintained in disrepair path would be less likely to have traps or active surveillance but also his senses which helped to get him through the area. It was a nice change of pace for his nose to be helpful unlike the times with the training.


As Yukan transverse he listened to what Zephyr had to say. Rumors of corrupt elements? That didn’t sound too reassuring was all the Tanuki man could think to himself, glancing back at her as she looked at him for a moment listing those odd elementals. Yet another unnatural space to transverse, like the area with the witch. It seemed like Yukan had a knack for getting into these sorts of problematic places.

“By elements..do you mean elementals as in the living entity?” Yukan inquired back softly, while still focusing on the task at hand. He felt a slight sense of relief with every possible pitfall they managed to navigate. And once they had cleared the dangerous area, the surrounding environment became somewhat disturbing again. Obviously there was some kind of history of sacrifice that had been ongoing here, but for what purpose Yukan did not know.

The scenes of the arm chairs and area almost felt like he was trying to navigate a tricky part of the Fae See with how odd the environments seemed around them. Who had built this place? Or was it something playing tricks on his mind? It was definitely difficult for Yukan to tell their progress until they reached the ornate door.

Yukan intrinsically had a bad feeling about the door and whatever laid behind it, whether it was animalistic instinct or not at play..nothing that had led up to the door felt good..the whole ordeal felt foreboding. It was clear enough it was significant and it looked like Zephyr agreed with him at the exchanged glances. He tried to make sense of the carvings but they weren’t like anything he had seen before truthfully.

He gave Zephyr a nod. “In that case, should we enter this door, we should be prepared to fight for our lives.” He replied softly.

When Yukan touched the door now he was getting all these illusion like things he was seeing unfold before him. A steely glint of conviction fell upon his face. “Tch..If Coldclaw believes they can ward me away with mind games I’m afraid that they are sadly mistaken..for..I’ve seen scenes from the hell picture scroll unraveled already.”

Yukan said defiantly. Leveraging his [Allied Triad Leader] title and referencing how he had already stood against the hordes of undead. As well as his [Amphibious Vanquisher] When he had managed to lead in the epic battle and keep it together against the large Hill toad which he had watched many allies get brutalized in battle.

He’d also use a combination of Int A + Koyake Clan Member E + Leadership F + Persuasion F + Republic of Kuridan Etiquette F

“ Great Zephyr..between the two of us I believe we can overcome this trickery..please I ask you to stand united with me not only in person but in mind and let us get through this together so that I may keep my words.” Hopefully through this Process Yukan and Zephyr would at minimum be able to hone in on the mission and persevere and open the door and with any luck Yukan and her might uncover some of the hidden information within the mess of immense negativity clearly designed to deter anyone from going further.

Relevant titles leveraged for overcoming door and hopefully learning information:

[Triad Allied Leader]
character is one of three to represent values of strength, leadership, and courage.

[Amphibious Vanquisher] - character has gained renown for leading forces in an epic battle to slay a massive amphibious creature. Character will more easily gain renown and grow their legend in the area.

Int A + Koyake Clan Member E + Leadership F + Persuasion F + Republic of Kuridan Etiquette F To try to initiate a united mental front with Zephyr against the door to hopefully at least pass it and stay on task, or if very successful gain additional information if possible.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Indicus quietly thought about how they were to find Yukan since the wound in the world was now healed. Of course he really did not know where to start there and he was left with himself and three orcs. So attacking the talons head on was out of the question but he still had the reason they were doing all this in the first place so for now the best bet was to make their way to the Talons base and plan from there.

"We still have slaves to free, for the moment we need to get to the Talons base. Problem is there are four of us and the field is too open. Our best bet is curb around to another side, any of you three familiar enough with the area to know if there are any forests in the area we could use?"

The Slave Compound stood ominously on the flat grassy plane, a mere five miles from the border of the See. It was a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the terrain, a symbol of oppression and brutality against the backdrop of nature's splendor. Encircled by a thick wooden palisade, the walls had been strengthened with mounds of compacted earth to deter any potential threats.

Inside the walls, the compound was meticulously organized. Three barracks, all identically built with thick wooden beams and a roof of heavy thatch, stood in a neat row. Opposite the barracks, the slave pens dominated the compound's eastern wing. These wooden enclosures were reinforced with thick metal chains and locks, making escape virtually impossible for the unfortunate souls trapped inside.

One of the orcs points out a pit trap. Indeed, there does appear to be some traps or signs of potential trouble if you approach without a proper scout.

The Red Talons have slowly begun to rifle into the fort and raise the guard. However, something does seem to be distracting them as even though they appear to be shoring up the defenses it's clear something major happened or is happening within.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Yukan intrinsically had a bad feeling about the door and whatever laid behind it, whether it was animalistic instinct or not at play..nothing that had led up to the door felt good..the whole ordeal felt foreboding. It was clear enough it was significant and it looked like Zephyr agreed with him at the exchanged glances. He tried to make sense of the carvings but they weren’t like anything he had seen before truthfully.

He gave Zephyr a nod. “In that case, should we enter this door, we should be prepared to fight for our lives.” He replied softly.

As Yukan approached the heavy iron-bound door, the echoes of the past, twisted and harrowing, sought to unnerve and overwhelm him, but he was resolute. Drawing upon his innate strength as a Koyake Clan member and his leadership skills, he touched the door, ready to face whatever lay beyond.

As his hand made contact, a rush of images and emotions flooded his mind. Scenes of Coldclaw's ruthless rise to power within the Empire, her involvement in political schemes, and her insatiable thirst for forbidden magics swirled before him. Yukan saw glimpses of Coldclaw's personal vendetta, fueled by the torture of her family at the hands of monsters and dark fae. Yet, he remained undeterred, his conviction unwavering.

When Yukan called out to Zephyr, she was there, a gentle caress against his cheek, her wind commingling with his breath. "Yes, we must remain united, not just in air but in spirit,"

Yukan's keen intellect, coupled with his deep understanding of clan dynamics, leadership abilities, and diplomatic etiquette, helped him navigate the mental labyrinth laid out before them. He was able to forge a united front with Zephyr, together they pierced through the illusions and uncovered the hidden truths within.

The door slowly creaked open. Beyond the iron-bound door the environment transformed starkly from the labyrinthine passages previously navigated. The room was vast, its dimensions difficult to discern due to the enveloping darkness that seemed to swallow the scant light from sparse, flickering torches on the walls.

As eyes adjusted, the room's grandeur became apparent, albeit somber and macabre. The ceiling arched into shadows, creating an impression of an endless void. Ancient tapestries lined the walls, their imagery faded but whispering tales of power, betrayal, and dark rituals. Between these tapestries, shelves and alcoves cradled an assortment of artifacts – some faintly glowing with magic, others mere relics of forgotten times.

The air felt thick with age and decay, yet pulsed with an energy indicating powerful magics. The atmosphere was heavy, charged with expectancy, as if the room itself was sentient, aware of the intrusion and the potential upheaval it signified.

Dominating the space was an altar in the room's center, crafted from dark stone that seemed to absorb light. Its sides were adorned with intricate carvings of sacrifice and arcane ceremonies. The altar held various objects: a ceremonial dagger with a serpentine handle, weathered bones in a cryptic arrangement, and a large, leather-bound tome, its pages open as if ready to divulge secrets.

The room's far end was shrouded in deeper darkness, concealing its contents. Flickers at the edge of vision suggested a presence, or multiple presences, within the room, although it was unclear whether these were physical entities or echoes of the past.

---

As they moved further into the chamber, the deeper darkness began to recede, revealing a figure at the far end of the room. There, standing with an ethereal grace amidst the shadows, was Dominus Coldclaw. Her pale skin seemed to glow faintly in the dim light, and her eyes, sharp and calculating, fixed upon Yukan and Zephyr as they approached.

Dominus Coldclaw, the Moon-blessed Vampire, embodied a blend of elegance and lethality. In her hand, she held a Moon-blessed Katana, its blade shimmering with a subtle glow. The vampiric nature of Coldclaw added an intense aura around her, a mixture of controlled ferocity and cunning intelligence.

“Welcome to the heart of my domain,” Coldclaw's voice was calm, yet it carried an undercurrent of menace. “I see you have navigated the shadows of my Undercellar. A commendable feat, but do you truly understand what you've walked into?”

Zephyr, leveraging her insights gained from the Echoes of the Past, spoke. "There is much I was curious about, but your the personal vendetta that drives you was an interesting find. Your rise to power has not gone unnoticed, nor has the suffering you've inflicted."

Coldclaw's expression remained unreadable, but a flicker of surprise passed through her eyes. "Insightful, but incomplete. Power is a means, not the end. My work here transcends mere political gain or revenge. I have bound something greater, something you cannot possibly comprehend."

Coldclaw's gaze shifted between Yukan and Zephyr, measuring them, calculating her next move. "Odd, I thought my little trap would have brought in another, yet you stand at a crossroads," she continued. "Submit and become my personal servants, or resist and witness powers beyond your wildest imaginings. Choose wisely."

The air crackled with latent energy, the outcome of their confrontation hanging precariously in the balance.

Spoiler: Note: Advantages gained

The Echoes of the Past (Difficulty: 7 - Moderate)

Together Yukan and Zephyr have prevailed against the Iron-Bound Door, a powerful emotional ward protecting Coldclaw's inner most sanctum.

• 6+ Gain: Gain Intel about weak points and opportunities (Narration Goal!) and bonus of +1 out of combat (social discussions, etc).
  • Power and Influence Within the Empire: Coldclaw's primary goal appears to be increasing her standing and influence within the Empire. She is involved in political machinations, seeking to gain favor with powerful figures and to undermine rivals. Knowing the specifics of these political ambitions will enable you to disrupt Coldclaw's plans or use them to manipulate her.
  • Research into Forbidden Magics: Coldclaw shows a keen interest in dark and forbidden magics, which she uses to enhance her power and control. This involves experiments on living beings through hidden knowledge to create a permanent bond with the Undercellar and control over it's denizens (trapped souls). You could exploit this by sabotaging Coldclaw's experiments, stealing or destroying her research, or using her thirst for arcane knowledge as a lure.
• 7+ Gain one of the following per player: Understand what Coldclaw is really after granting +1 on actions against Coldclaw or the Undercellar.
  • Personal Vendetta: Coldclaw is driven by a personal vendetta tied to her past: the torture of her family at the hand of monsters and unspeakable acts performed on her by their fanatcal, human hating dark fae master. Understanding her personal motivations could provide you with emotional leverage or the means to distract or demoralize her. (-2 debuff to Coldclaw if used effectively in a stunt against Coldclaw).

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus shook his head, it was to be expected clearing any wooded areas immediately around a fortification was a basic precaution with traps on top of that he would have to carefully move that would make it slow going even if he was only a few hundred feet away. On top of that their window was closing they would not be off guard forever even now they were resuming watch.

Indicus tuned to the orcs with him, "Step only where i step and keep an eye out for any traps i may not notice if we stay low to the ground and approach from the back of the fort (South im assuming) we may be able to get there undetected if we are spotted we run away. I want to free the slaves but we can't fight a entire fort with four people."

After having said that Indicus enacted his attempt to get inside the fort. First they would approach from the south with the hope the lookouts would be focused on the area around the slaves and the front gate woit less manpower focused on the other areas. As the group approached Indicus employed his skills in stealth [Stealth F, Undetected sound F] as well as focusing on his instincts and sight [Survival F, Sixth sense (danger) F , Perception F] on top of the other orcs helping to spot traps and gaps in the lookouts they would slowly wind their way to the palisade.