Fantasy Hunter's Moon: Ascendancy [IC] [CLOSED]

[Dmaster]

The huntress's arm limply fell to her side as she exhaled a ragged breath, having to tense her slashed diaphragm to keep her aim steady for that shot. When Istres' eyes fell upon Camille, she continued to shoot that hateful glare at the demon as the Icon toppled over and expired. Falling to one knee, she finally clutched at her bleeding wound for a moment before looking to her sabers. Once she had retrieved and sheathed her blades, Camille slowly crept toward Rebecca for healing, not taking her eyes off of their other foe as she was rapidly recovering.

When Rebecca comments on Vegras' sense of honor the huntress scoffed, holding her glare. "I am certain that your subordinates do not subscribe to that view. Standing, kneeling, cowering. They care not over the state of their victims, they just want to cause pain and misery."

Camille's breathing slows as the pain gradually subsides, yet her anger remains. "There was a time where I thought vampires to be sick. Monsters masquerading as humans to prey on those that cannot defend themselves. Now, I realize that those vampires I hunted would be monsters even if they weren't supernatural. You and your ilk? There are none so smug and reverent in their evil as you. I will send you to oblivion just as I did to your friend."

 

[Worthlessplebian]

His claw carved into the ground as Rajko narrowly missed the Icon. Yet his efforts were not all in vain as Camille delivered a blinding, lethal bane of heavenly blessings to the Icon of Pride.

He blinked to chase away the light smears. A smirk formed on his face as he watched the wretched wench's life wade into oblivion from her corpse. "Good riddance." He muttered with his mutant mouth.

The inquisitor hopped slowly to his companions' side. Vegras' code befuddled him, a paradoxical decision which could undo his life and everything up to this point. Was this icon more certain than his peer in success? Or is foolishness a pathological phenomenon in Icons?

"Mettle against mettle, Icon." Rajko's horrid voice called. At the very least, this one won't cower behind perfidious boasts. Hopefully.

 

[K0mori]

The thundercrack of Camille's shot impacted Istres as Sebastian and Azathor were each only steps away from the icon, the sound and the flash enough to bring both of them to a sliding halt, shocked at the damage dealt. His first impulse was to expect the saint, but he quickly realized that there was no possibility. No, the fatal shot had come from the huntress, an ordinary human being with a temporarily extraordinary weapon at her disposal.

As the others tested the remaining Icon with their taunts, Sebastian couldn't stand up straight with so much pain in his body. He put the axe head down against the muddy earth and leaned on the handle, trying not to faint. "...How can I be at my best? She broke my gun," Sebastian said to Vegras, tiredly.

 

[joshuadim]

Azathor on the other hand, was less coherent as he staggered while bringing himself to a halt, nearly collapsing before twirling around towards Vegras with gritted teeth in a snarl. "I CAN STILL FIGHT." Azathor hissed out, barely holding himself together out of spite towards the remaining icon. "I WILL HAVE YOUR HEAD-" he then managed to get out before a burst of blood shot out from his mouth, indicative of the amount of damage that he had taken from Istres' previous blow. He fell to his hands and knees and breathed in heavily, slowly regaining his bearings as well as his lucidity from his rageful episode.

"...I could perhaps use some help, actually." he managed to get out before spitting out some bloodied saliva.

 

[Infab]

Cassandra stopped as soon as she saw Xiaòzhou rising from the waters, eventually turning and heading back to where the group was gathering around Rebecca. As she arrived, she heard some of them already directing comments towards the Icon as he waited for them to heal. She also heard his response.

"There was a time where I thought vampires to be sick. Monsters masquerading as humans to prey on those that cannot defend themselves. Now, I realize that those vampires I hunted would be monsters even if they weren't supernatural. You and your ilk? There are none so smug and reverent in their evil as you. I will send you to oblivion just as I did to your friend."

"You're welcome to try." responded the Icon, shifting a glance in her direction before looking about at the others.

"...How can I be at my best? She broke my gun."

Cassandra glanced down at Sebastian, a frown of annoyance on her face. She didn't speak, but did step right around him. Walking across the sandy marketplace towards the Icon. He watched her as she approached, motionless as his eyes followed her movements. She simply cut him a look as she passed, moving over to the bodies of the slain soldiers behind him whom they had killed earlier. She stopped by one of the bodies, bending over and snatching something off of it a moment later, before carrying it back over to where the group was gathered.

Once she was back beside Sebastian, she held it out. "A bit different from yours, but it should work. Just have the Saint bless it." she stated, "And don't shoot me with it, or I'll break your gun next."

It was a pump-action shotgun, but with a longer barrel and a strange mechanism regarding how it chambered and ejected shells. The names Spencer and Bannerman were wrote across the side.

"...I could perhaps use some help, actually."

"Then get over here, Azathor." said Rebecca in response, as she continued to heal the group. One by one, they had their wounds mended, and their bodies restored to fighting shape. And soon enough, all were back to the way they were before.

 

[K0mori]

Once she was back beside Sebastian, she held it out. "A bit different from yours, but it should work. Just have the Saint bless it." she stated, "And don't shoot me with it, or I'll break your gun next."

"Is that all?" Sebastian replied, wryly. "Sounds like a fair trade."

It was apparent by this point that the man had gallows humor on his mind as he hobbled over to Rebecca to receive healing and blessings.

 

[Breadman]

"Make your threats, Icon." Royland finally spoke. "We already killed one of you and you're going to meet the same fate." The armor creaked with horrific sounds as the healing aura mended the wraith's flesh and bones. The plates that were bend, folded and pierced by the attacks were being smoothed over and repaired, but the blood, dirt and grime still stained it.

"Your rotten reign over me and my kin is over." The knight growled. Something hasn't been right since the fight with the necromancer's spirit, but when Icons made their presence know it has only worsened for Royland. The façade of chivalry was long gone, replaced with bloodlust and anger. Whether it was the presence of the Icon of wrath that caused it, or the mounting damages sustained on this mission, it was unclear. Fumes escaped through the armor, glowing embers sparked through the slits of his helm. The chains were now red hot. The warrior of the faith wasn't there. Whatever the consequences, they would have to be dealt with later as their last foe would challenge them. Someone for him to focus his ire on.

 

[Damian0358]

Xiaòzhou arrived back, passively aiding Rebecca in healing those who remained unhealed still. He didn't have much to say to the icon, only giving him a serious look.

 

[Infab]

"Make your threats, Icon." Royland finally spoke. "We already killed one of you and you're going to meet the same fate. Your rotten reign over me and my kin is over."

Vegras glanced to Royland, before rolling his eyes. "My reign over you? I could care less what happens to the Wraiths. Lord Taranoch spoke of having your lot exterminated after the war, which is fine by me. You've outlived your usefulness by a few hundred years."

As the group finished healing up, returning to fighting form, Vegras unfolded his arms and glanced to the side. Towards the south side of the marketplace. "Alright then. I'd say let's begin, but it seems you have another joining you." he stated, before motioning a hand in the direction he was looking. "And it seems that they've brought the Amulet with them. Excellent. I won't have to go and fetch it."

Most of the group cast their attention to where Vegras motioned, and soon noticed someone strolling through the path that Sebastian and the others had cut in the ruins. And the all-powerful aura of the Amulet of Gyasis pulsed from around their neck. The godly aura drowned out their own personal one, so those with the sense to detect it couldn't tell who it was. They'd all have to rely on their sight.

And soon, they would find out who it was. "My apologies for being late. Things went on longer than intended, but I had to see it all through to the end." stated a female voice. Claire McLachlan's voice.

Cassandra grunted. "We've already slain one of the Icons without your help." said the pureblood, shaking her head as she looked back to Vegras. "Your help isn't needed."

"As if I care about your opinion, Cassandra." responded Claire. She emerged from the ruins, and the group got a good view of her altered appearance. No longer was she dressed in the coat and hat she had been wearing before. Instead, she wore simply her black leather pants and white blouse shirt, her black hair hanging loosely around her shoulders. Her gloves were also gone, and she was now clutching her sword in her right hand and her revolver in the other.

She moved over to where the group was, and glanced to Rebecca. "I assume you have questions. Those can wait till we slay this Icon." she stated, smiling slightly at the Saint and the others. She then shifted her attention to Vegras. "I am Captain Claire McLachlan of the Highland Rose. Master of the waters of Grimtham Isle, Survivor of the Pirate Purge of 1726. Huntress of Escaria, Private Investigator, Enforcer of the Sanguine Laws of the Vampire Houses. And now, Vanquisher of Pirate Lord Alexander A. S. Valdueza, Wielder of the Amulet of Gyasis, and an accessory to the death of an Abyssal Icon."

Cassandra cut her a look. "Think that's enough titles? Or do you need a few more?"

Claire returned her look. "I could think of a few for you, but we're a little busy."

Vegras made a noise, that sounded a bit like a cough. "Would you please just shut up? You talk too much." he spat afterwards, before the group noticed his body beginning to twitch. He was doing the same thing that Istres had been doing when she began to shed her human skin. And soon, his flesh began to fall from his body as he morphed into his true form.

"I think we should just skip straight to the good part. I'll cast off my mortal shell, and fight you as an Icon should. No holding back, now, or I'll be... most upset." he stated, as his body began to shift and morph in grotesque ways. Eventually, however, he stood before them several feet taller and wielding two massive metal-coated claws.

"I am Vegras'Varnaat of Langast. Icon of Wrath." he growled in a guteral and anger-filled tone. "Let us begin."

 

[joshuadim]

Azathor hobbled back towards Rebecca to receive some healing, despite however much it hurt, to recover the integrity of his vessel as he gritted his teeth while his wounds mended. Once that was over with, he took a moment to catch his breath before giving the Saint a nod. At the very least he could fight in decent condition again, especially against this new upstart Icon that was so proudly boasting his arrogance. He would come to regret not attacking with Istres as he drew his sister's blade again and got into a combat position.

"I am Vegras'Varnaat of Langast. Icon of Wrath."

"I don't care." Azathor spoke, this time with much more control than he had prior. One could mistake that he had simply calmed down from the explosion of emotions from before, but the opposite was in fact true. He was, in fact, welled up with such anger that he had returned to an almost clear-minded state. The demon prince thus bounded forth with abyssal agility as he bounced between a few positions before lunging forth to stab at Vegras' midriff.

 

[Breadman]

"HAVE AT THEE!" The searing chains formed from Royland as the knight swung them towards the icon.

 

[K0mori]

Sebastian hung back once again, looking for an opportunity to blast the hulking demon with his new shotgun. The pain of Istres' assault still lingered fresh in his memory, and he only hoped that he would escape a similar thrashing.

 

[Damian0358]

Xiaòzhou weaved his way through, intending to have his beginning move first be something familiar, grabbing his staff and running in for a multi-hit strike (like water).

 

[Dmaster]

Camille sneered as the Icon shed its humanoid form and transformed into something appropriately brutish, though to her he was a monster all the same. The pain of her wound numbed and almost entirely sealed thanks to the divine magic Rebecca had used, she strode forward toward Vegras. She was unflinching in her approach, though once more her heart beat rapidly with uncertainty, a recognition that every battle may be her last yet she shall fight all the same.

Quickly her strut gained speed, causing her to close the distance between herself and their foe with a much greater pace. Using her momentum, she attempted to slice straight through the Icon's abdomen and kept up her sprint!

 

[Worthlessplebian]

It was the Icon of Wrath's turn to now face their fury. Rejuvenated by the Saint's healing, with Takato's assistance, Rajko's leathery wings took him to the sky.

While the rest charged him head on, he will curve onto the fiend and mangle his cruel visage with the talons on his feet.

 

[Infab]

Caleling Reef - Marketplace - Icon Fight - Turn One
Vegras'Varnaat, Icon of Wrath
(HP = 300)
Claws of Wrath - Both of Vegras' hands are equipped with massive razor sharp claws that were crafted with Abyssal materials. If he scores a hit in combat, he will roll for another hit to deliver a one-two punch. Players will roll to avoid the second swipe. If Vegras rolls higher, the second hit lands. If the Players roll higher, they avoid the attack. The attack does 5 DMG per hit.

Abyssal Strength - Vegras cannot be stunned by physical means. Other means, be they visual or psychological, still work. Vegras' strength also allows him to destroy the environment around him, if need be.

Overkill - After witnessing the group use their special moves, Vegras now brings his own. Once every three turns, just like the players, Vegras can use a special attack that causes an instant KO to whomever it hits. Players will roll against his special attack if targeted, and if they score higher, they dodge it. If they fail, they will be KO'd, and will have to be revived by another player.

Rebecca's Group
Blessed Be Thy Weapons - Thanks to the blessings that Rebecca has cast, the group now does a natural base of 10 DMG to the Icons. Any additional damage stacks on top of the base 10. For example, a grazing gunshot does 11 DMG instead of 1.

Blessed Be Thy Body - Just as Rebecca blessed their weapons, she also blessed their bodies. The group will slowly regain health overtime. Every turn, they will regain two points of HP. If hit with an attack while healing, the regenerated HP will subtract from the DMG. For example, if someone suffers 3 DMG while wounded, they will really only suffer 1 DMG.

Godly Artifact (Gyasis) - The Amulet of Gyasis, being in the group's possession, grants them benefits surpassing their mortal limits. If a standard attack hits a character that would normally KO them, they will instead enter a state where they push on by sheer force of will. They will remain standing for one additional turn, it order to attack one more time, before passing out. If the hit lands, they do double damage. A downside to the Amulet being in the group's possession is that the group's feelings are amplified. They will all react to conversation and actions with far more emotion than normal, due to Gyasis' influence.

- Rebecca -
Chosen Perk: Shield-maiden - With her tower shield equipped, Rebecca can shield herself (or an ally) from an attack. Damage is halved when struck (to a minimum of 1 DMG.)

Random Perk: Voice of the Saint - Using her Saint powers, Rebecca can heal an ally from a distance. Each use grants 3 HP to an ally, but the power has a one turn cooldown with each use. Amount of HP regained will increase by 3 per chapter.

- Cassandra -
Chosen Perk: Shadow-dancing, Naturally - Using her blinding pureblood speed, and a little finesse, Cassandra can dart around her enemies and deliver devastating attacks. For up to three times during a battle, Cassandra can deliver a critical hit, with a bonus in damage of +5 if it is to a mini-boss or boss.

Random Perk: Witness the Slaughter - Cassandra's brutality in close quarters has a chance to strike fear into nearby enemies. If Cassandra kills a foe in melee combat, nearby enemies will be 2 points less likely to hit her for a turn. Effect increases by one point with every chapter.

- Claire -
Chosen Perk: No Quarter - With cutlass in hand, Claire is a force to be reckoned with. She shows no mercy, and expects none in return. Claire has a 50% chance to do double damage in melee combat if her attack lands.

Random Perk: No Grave but the Sea - Claire made a promise to herself long ago that when she eventually dies, she'd do so out on the open waters of the world's oceans. So far, she's kept that promise to herself. If an enemy should down Claire during combat, Claire will automatically revive herself if left alone for a turn. She will revive with a third of her HP.

- Sebastian -
Chosen Perk: Quick Reflexes - Sebastian's military training has given him heightened reflexes compared to the average person. Enemies have less of a chance of hitting him, and (if they just so happen to hit) will never score a critical hit on him (with the exception of environmental hazards, mini-bosses, and bosses.)

Random Perk: Point-Blank - Sebastian's no stranger to fighting up close with his firearm. If engaged by an enemy in melee, Sebastian will automatically counter-attack with a firearm. It will be an automatic critical hit.

- Azathor -
Chosen Perk: Combination Power - Azathor's a natural when it comes to making hits land one after the other, all focused on one spot. For every hit that lands in a string, an additional point of damage is added. Damage can stack endlessly, until Azathor misses (after which the damage resets.)

Random Perk: A Sister's Legacy - In the same vein as his fallen sister, Azathor shows immense prowess with bladed weaponry. If fighting a foe in melee, Azathor's learned talents come into play. Does an additional 3 points of DMG against melee opponents when using a melee weapon himself, and has a 50% chance to deflect a melee attack. Amount of damage dealt will increase per chapter.

- Camille -
Chosen Perk: Honed Reflexive Riposte - During the years following the Witlock Inquiry, Camille honed her skills as a sword fighter. Enemy melee attacks that fail to land prompt an automatic counter-attack from Camille. Double damage if her attack hits.

Random Perk: Nevermore - A rather new technique Camille has learned over the years, Camille can cause a distraction in order to throw off an enemy's attack and allow for a devastating strike. Once during a battle, Camille can use this ability to force an enemy's attack to miss entirely. Enemy will be stunned for one turn afterwards, allowing for one automatic critical hit.

- Royland -
Chosen Perk: Penance Stare - A gift given to the Wraiths of the Abyss, Royland can strike terror into the hearts of ne'er-do-wells and villains with simply a gaze. When used, the target will be stunned for a turn. Number of turns stunned will grow per chapter.

Random Perk: Noble Knight - When fighting alongside an ally in melee against the same enemy, Royland sense of chivalry begins to come into play. If an enemy should strike an ally, Royland will do double damage to the enemy that struck them in retaliation (should his hit land.)

- Takato/Xiaòzhou -
Chosen Perk: Like Water, Returning - Takato/Xiaòzhou, since the days of the mission into the Abyss, has honed his skills ever more. Grants an additional move/action during a turn; applies double damage if the second move/action is an attack that hits, other traits do not come into effect for the second move/action. Both moves/actions can be used for a singular AoE move/action, which also does double damage (if an attack that hits.)

Random Perk: The 10 Trials of Adriel - Thanks to the teachings of the second Abyssal King dwelling within his mind, Takato/Xiaòzhou has learned of the trials a young Adriel (the eventual first Abyssal King) had to endure to become a Titan. In exchange for a decrease in health, Takato/Xiaòzhou can amplify their damage output by extraordinary amounts. For every point of HP substituted, Takato/Xiaòzhou does 2 additional DMG. This damage will grow by two with each chapter.

- Rajko -
Chosen Perk: Batimalism - Rajko can command a swarm of bats to attack or do an arbitrary action like retrieve a distant object or blind a foe for a turn. An attack by the bats does 3 DMG to a target (and is amplified every chapter by 3) Goes on cooldown for two turns after use. Additionally, bats will never attack Rajko unless induced by a magical entity or older werebat.

Random Perk: Deafening Screech - While in Werebat form, Rajko can unleash a screech directed at a foe loud enough to stun them. The enemy stunned will remain unable to attack for three turns, and any attacks directed at this foe will be automatic critical hits if they land. When used on a mini-boss or boss, they will be stunned for only one turn but will have three points less of a chance to hit targets for two turns afterwards. Can be used once per battle.


Azathor = 5. Does 13 DMG (A Sister's Legacy, Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 287.
Royland = 7. Acc. Roll = 19. Does 20 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 267.
Sebastian = 9. Acc. Roll = 15. Does 15 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons)to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 252.
Xiaòzhou = 5, 4 (Like Water, Returning.) Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 242.
Camille = 6. Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 232.
Rajko = 1. Misses Vegras.
Jayden = 1. Misses Vegras.
Claire = 7. Acc. Roll = 16. Does 15 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 217.
Cassandra = 3. Misses Vegras.
Rebecca = 8. Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras' HP = 207.

--- --- ---

Vegras = 6, 9 (Claws of Wrath.) Targets Rajko. Dodge Roll = 10. Rajko avoids the second swing. Vegras does 5 DMG to Rajko. Rajko HP = 10.

--- --- ---

SPECIAL ATTACKS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN TWO TURNS.

​

Rage. A burning, focused rage boiled within Azathor. Fueled primarily by his hatred of the Icons, under the leadership of Taranoch, but at the same time it was being fueled by something else. Something godly in their midst.

The same was occuring with the others of the group, but to a far greater extent. Emotions began to bubble and run over inside the hearts and souls of each of them, save for Rebecca. Her Sainthood mostly quelled such godly manipulations. Still, she felt it. She knew what it was. The others, however, had no knowledge of the influence. To them, it was just how they felt. Maybe it was the adrenaline, brought on by the rush of combat? Or maybe they had grown tired of simply hiding how they felt?

Still, Vegras stood here before them. And he needed to be put down, just like the other Icon before him had been. Soon, the battle began. Azathor rushed in, hatred and rage showing in both his eyes and his sword ready to swing. His face bore an expression of determination, attempting to mask the growing rage within. His mind was clear. His body was struggling to stay on the same page.

His blade met flesh, carving a thin gash across Vegras' thick, rough skin across his torso. Blood stained the blade, but it didn't seem to faze Vegras at all. He moved quickly, to avoid any reaction swings from Vegras and allow the others to make their own strikes.

Royland's chain darted through the air, loudly hissing as it sailed by Azathor before colliding hard with the metal helmet thay Vegras was now wearing. It created a massive dent, caving in a part of the helmet's left cheek and rattling the Icon for a brief moment. Opening him up for more hits.

Sebastian found his moment. Sights were lined up, a trigger was pulled, and a mass of 12 gauge buckshot exploded from his shotgun's barrel. The shot pelted Vegras' torso, the mixture of iron and lead pellets causing ripples across the demon's flesh as they embedded themself into it with violent force. Jayden and Claire would attempt to cause similar damage with their shots, but only Claire's massive revolver would score a hit. Hitting the demon in its large chest, just right of the sternum.

The remaining members of the group soon moved in to make their strikes. Xiaòzhou and Camille struck first, Camille slicing a gash in the demon's arm as he tried to block. Xiaòzhou rushed in from the right side, popping the Icon across his head with a hop. As he tried to make a second hit land, however, the Icon quickly ducked and rolled backwards. Which also forced Rajko and Cassandra to miss their own attacks.

As Vegras came up, however, he surprisingly spun about and swung his sharp claws through the air. Swatting at Rajko's werebat body. The claws raked across Rajko's wing, cutting through the flesh and forcing him to crash into the sand nearby. Close enough for the Icon to try and land a second swing with his other hand. However, Rajko was alert enough after the crash to quickly roll out of the way of the Icon's claw as it came crashing down into the sand.

Rebecca was the last to hit, rushing in and driving her longsword's blade across the Icon's thigh as she swung. Blood spattered across the sand, flung away from the longsword as Rebecca's swing finished. She quickly retreated, not intending to recieve the same beating she had before.

Cassandra spoke up, her fangs bared. Eyes wild, and burning red. "I'm going to carve you up like a Festival turkey, because that's exactly what you look like to me right now. Just ripe for the slaughter." she said, her voice bleeding sadistic tones. Rebecca cut the pureblood a look as she fell back a good distance from the Icon, before glancing to the others.

Hopefully they could keep it together long enough to kill this creature.

 

[Breadman]

"That was for the Hanging forest!" Royland sneered as his chain coiled around his arm again. "For those who were doomed to serve under your regime! To die for it and be tossed aside!" He barked. He didn't say anything as Cassandra was beginning to show more of herself. He felt the pull. Something was having an intoxicating effect on him. Its the lust for revenge. It has to be. An Icon would be worth so much. His energy would sustain an entire legion. The wraith started to laugh at the thought of it. One of the rulers of hell reduced to a mere carcass fit only to feed upon. A cackle escaped from under his helm as he swung again.

 

[joshuadim]

After his blow landed, Azathor skidded along the ground behind the Icon and twirled about. Twirling his blade about in a powerful flourish, he lunged once more at the Icon as the power of anger - enhanced by Gyasis' relic - fueled his next strike; Azathor's blade swung from above in an overhead arch with intent to cut into the Icon's shoulder and thus hinder his combat ability!

 

[Worthlessplebian]

Rajko tumbled then skittered across the rain-beaten ground in a lizard fashion, not like a bat. Dragging the tattered membrane through the mud. Pain was in his mind. Fear as well, like someone stoked the gleaming charcoals of fear. He trembled, that werebat body of his. Once safe enough away, he shuffled around. He drew the thin ribbons of his wing into the monstrous hand. Tiny vessels pumped out droplets of blood. It stung him as it rested in his palm. He can't fight this. He can't fight this. His mind screamed.

But he must! His palm crushed the ribbons like a man squeezing crimson juice out of a fruit. Fear burned away, replaced by the intoxicating vigor of hate.

He rose up on his hinds, throwing his head back with a puffed out chest and his jaw jutting. The beast that was Rajko screamed at the dark clouds. Eerily, it sounded like a man with rusted fishhooks in his Achilles being raked across a bed of jagged stones and thorny vines, leaving behind strips of skin. And a beast taunted by the prey's warm ichor.

He slammed his fists onto the dirt. He gazed at Vargas, that hell-blasted boil on this earth, drunk on his amplified enmity and bestial ferocity. He dashed across the battlefield on all fours then bounded for Vargas' neck with a snapping maw and stabbing claws.

 

[Damian0358]

"[...you sense it, don't you?]" Xiaòzhou could hear in his mind, as he witnessed his second strike not only miss, but lead others to miss too. His neutrally-stern look stiffened in response, as he stepped back to examine the situation, both strategically, and to figure out what Zazriel meant.

...the hermit came up with nothing. His frustration continued to bubble. He tried to calm his mind, reminding himself that 'excellent warriors are not violent; excellent soldiers are not furious...'

"[...but whatever is going on is not as simple,]" he could hear, "[nor can I even explain it myself... however, remind yourself of your teachings...]"

...the oni attempted to go beyond the thought of battle, and recalled a lesson he had learned on sorrow; the Dou was ever present, natural, but spontaneous, like the way water flows. To resist it, to wish things were different, would only create sorrow. He needed to be like a pebble carried effortlessly along the stream of life, allow things to flow naturally. And anger created much sorrow, so just as with sorrow, to repress one's anger, one's frustration, would hinder not only him, but all those around him. Though one could empty their own boat at times, or at other times the baggage of the past and the future, no one could do so perfectly every time. And in those times, one needed to channel anger and frustration constructively.

Breath in, breath out.

Rush him down.

Strike the legs multiple times.

A centipede with a hundred legs does not lose its life after one blow.

 

[K0mori]

The sound of Cassandra's unhinged rambling did more than get under Sebastian's skin. His blood boiled. Here, he and the others had slain one of the apex demons that rules over the Abyss, with another right behind her, and yet all would be for nothing because of this monster in their own midst that the saint seemed either unable or unwilling to control. He nearly reached for his axe, wanting to physically purge the anger from his system by pounding it into the flesh of either Vegras or Cassandra - it didn't matter which - but he regained his senses and instead chambered another round. He'd give Vegras another blast from the shotgun, and another, until the demon stopped coming at him, and then he'd kill Cassandra and anyone else who might get in the way.

 

[Dmaster]

After performing her slicing strike through the Icon she kept running forward, stopping after her short sprint and beginning to pant. Looking down at her limbs, she still saw them shaking as they had been some time ago. Not with pain or anxiety like before, but from an unfettered fury that was rising within her. Though Camille could be known to have bouts of anger, she thought herself a peerless and composed fighter. This battle was different, for she only felt rage whenever she looked upon her foe. How many had he killed to only satiate his sick fantasies and pleasures? She could not allow Vegras and his twisted brethren to cause more suffering, Sazak's machinations had already cost them too much.

Spinning on her heels, Camille grit her teeth before rushing back into the fray. A foe so immense and lumbering was brimming with blind spots to exploit, and she would strike every single one of them in a flurry of slashes.

 

[Infab]

Caleling Reef - Marketplace - Icon Fight - Turn Two
Royland = 3. Misses Vegras.
Azathor = 9. Does 14 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons, Combination Power, A Sister's Legacy) to Vegras. Vegras HP = 193.
Rajko = 5. Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons (?)) to Vegras. Vegras HP = 183.
Xiaòzhou = 4, 2 (Like Water, Returning.) Misses Vegras.
Sebastian = 2. Misses Vegras.
Camille = 8. Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras HP = 173.
Jayden = 2. Misses Vegras.
Claire = 9. Chance Flip (No Quarter) = Failed! Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras HP = 163.
Cassandra = 6. Does 10 DMG (Blessed Be Thy Weapons) to Vegras. Vegras HP = 153.
Rebecca = 3. Misses Vegras.

--- --- ---

Vegras = 7, 5 (Claws of Wrath.) Targets Rebecca. Dodge Roll = 1. Rebecca does not avoid the second swing. Vegras does 10 DMG (Claws of Wrath) to Rebecca. Rebecca HP = 5.

--- --- ---

SPECIAL ATTACKS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN ONE TURN.

​

Now thoroughly enraged, unknowingly heavily influenced by the power of the godly amulet in their midst, the group continued their assault on Vegras. Their rage, however, would cause some of them to lose their focus, forcing missed swings and shots. Royland's toss would be the first to miss, the large mace head sailing wide past the demon's head. But Azathor's swing would be one of the ones to hit, his downward swing driving his blade into the meaty shoulder of the Icon. The Icon flinched slightly, as the blade sliced through skin before getting stuck in the thick muscle beneath. It didn't hinder him, but it did do some damage. Next up was Rajko, who leapt onto Vegras as he reached around to grab at Azathor.

The werebat would miss his intended target, that being Vegras' neck, but would instead latch onto the Icon's back. His claws embedded into the skin, his teeth clamping down on the Icon's other shoulder. He began to pull and tear, trying to rip the flesh from the Icon's body, but struggled. The wrathful Icon's body was tough. Too tough. It'd take a bit more wearing down before they could properly rip him to shreds. As Azathor freed himself from the other side, moving away from the Icon to avoid getting grabbed, Vegras opted to grab Rajko. A massive hand grabbed the werebat by the neck, before jerking and slinging him off.

Xiaòzhou's incoming attacks were forced to miss, as the Icon somehow nimbly dodged the Oni's swats at his legs. "You'll have to move faster, Oni." responded the Icon, speaking for the first time since the fight started. He then heard a mechanical pumping sound. A shotgun chambering a shell. And instinctively, the Icon rolled forwards. Out of the way of a shotgun blast aimed at his body. Sebastian had missed.

Camille wouldn't miss, however, as she followed the Icon's movements. Following him before rushing in to strike at Vegras' legs. A behemoth of an Icon needed to be toppled. Damage the legs, and they can't support his weight. Her blades sliced through the flesh at the back of the demon's knees. The attack forced the Icon down to a knee for a brief moment, as pain surged up from the fresh wound, but he stood up once more. Forcing a determined grunt in response.

As he stood, he soon noticed Jayden taking aim with his Martini-Henry, and rolled again as the young man fired off his shot. Another miss. But then Claire and Cassandra would both follow Camille's lead, rushing in and both delivering strikes against the Icon's legs. Once more, the Icon dropped to his knees, but soon stood once more. It seemed he was determined to not go down.

Rebecca would also attempt the same, since the other three seemed to be on to something. But the luck ran out. Vegras was prepared, simply moving aside to dodge the Saint's swing before retaliating with a quick swipe of his massive metal gauntlet. The hit knocked her into the air, before he swung his other gauntlet. The impact forced her back down to the ground, virtually spiking her against it like a ball. He moved away a moment later, opting to put a little distance between him and the others. Allowing him to see what they might do next.

As they fought, the influence of the amulet began to slowly shift. The rage inside began to subside, being replaced with something quite different. As Rebecca slowly crawled to her feet, she slowly recognized it. And glancing to the others, her thoughts were confirmed.

The intense anger and rage was being replaced with profound sadness and depression. And it was even affecting her, despite her resistance to Gyasis' influence. She felt something deep inside that she hadn't felt in a long time. Doubt.

Cassandra, now looking for an opening to assault the Icon, felt something rolling down her face. Moisture. Her fingers reached up to her cheek, tips running across her skin to find that she was now crying. Why was she crying? For what reason was she...

We're cursed, you know.

What?

You and I. We're not meant to be happy.

What the hell are you talking about?

Think about it. Everything we do ends in failure. Everything we touch breaks. Everyone we care about, we hurt. We're cursed, and we'll stay that way until someone comes along and puts an end to our miserable existence.

But Mariette is waiting for--

Do you think we'll return to the Abyss? To her? You like it up here. You and I both know that. And she won't come back to the mortal realm. She's needed down there.

We're going to go back to the Abyss. When this is over, we're going back. To be with her.

...That's... not going to happen, Cass.

And why not?!

...Because you know which of us will be in control by the time this is over. Accept it... or don't. It'll still happen, and there's nothing you can do to stop it.

The crying increased, tears rolling down Cassandra's face and dripping off her chin. No... N-No... You can't...

 

[Damian0358]

Why?

Why have things turned out this way?

Despite our efforts, he does not remain down. And now, the Saint's severely hurt.

Was it not enough? Did we resist the current somehow? Are we doomed to repeat the near-disaster faced previously?

No.

This mindset.

Why am I discriminating?

It is in times like these that one has to remember how little fears cause anxiety, and great fears cause panic. All bringing one to sorrow.

I cannot see the path before me if I begin to worry about what is right or what is wrong. It just is, whether it be the frustration felt before, or this somber depression felt now. I cannot force things to occur, only follow its flow... the Dou.

There is no point to dwell on it, for that brings me further away from the Dou.

I just have to... do.

[Heal Rebecca, strike Vegras' legs]

 

[Worthlessplebian]

Despite how embedded his claws were, despite how thin ribbons of Icon flesh decorated the bat's terrible jaws, Rajko couldn't cling to his foe's back. Tufts of ashy fur were ripped clean off from Rajko's neck, as he went rolling through the air like a sack of meat with twigs poking out the sides. The flat-faced monster fell face first into the mushy, dirt-turned-mud. A clawed hand gripped his skull. A massive pain pounded his head from within, the creature groaned and gurgled into the dirt. His enhanced sonar picked up the unbearably loud blasts from the guns, the clashing of swords, Vergas' venomous taunt towards Takato. Further compounding his headache.

He must gather himself again, he must. Rajko's tired arms creak and bend as he lifts himself up from the dirt, spitting out a chunk of grass, soil, and blood. How long have they been fighting? Time blurred so much in the past few moments that the batty inquisitor simply couldn't tell. Minutes? Or has it stretched into hours. Gods, he just wants a break. His lungs began fighting for air. Desperately. "Hate you... Hate.." He blurted.

Undisciplined. Weak.

What? Rajko's head shot up like a bullet. He surveyed the land for whoever said that, except... It wasn't heard, yet was said. Nobody was there, except him and his memories. Older memories. Why was he remembering that now?

You were wrong, boy! No, damn it, no, I was sure the vampire was dead. Bah, you're getting too soft in the heart and head, too bloody daft to see what's in front of you. I do not doubt my own eyes! Maybe you should.

Rajko pressed down his claws into the stretched cheeks of his face. Solomon... Red orbs, wet by sadness, heartache by the memories long since dealt with. He flagellates himself in front of the altar of his mentor and master. The inquisitor is indebted, indebted for everything that he is now, and yet he still feels like a washout. The bat creature that was Rajko began dragging himself further and further away. Near the wooden walls of a building, he clawed himself to his feet nauseously. A single question invaded by his memories. It struggled for air under a tsunami of unearthed, spiritual agony. Why? He's dealt with this, he went through this pain once, why again? The inquisitor whimpered against the wall.

If you lose control, Rajko... It'd hurt you, a lot more than it will me. "Yes..." He breathed. No rage bubbled now, just simple despondency. "It did hurt me, didn't it? Not in the way you thought, though." His hands tightened into fists, leaving marks into the wood, thin lips weakly quivered. "No one is immune to failure." Rajko recalled the words now. Voice shaken and uneven, and inhuman, like a saucer with water filled to the brim, threatening to spill. "Defeat, disappointment... That is failure. And hunters must..." He fights the words out of his mouth through his teeth. "A hunter must, must learn..." He cried through grit teeth.

He stammered off the wall, back into the fight, propelled by half-hearted discipline. His mouth siphoned precious moist air then he powered a sonic-screech that seemed more like a wail, than a man's warcry or a beast's roar, at Vergas.