Graded [Frontier] Runaway Slaves [Part 2]

[TheTimePiece]

Zolgen
​

Zolgen after being quite satisfied with the bloody display before him paused, he saw the knives coming at him and held his ground and got into a defensive stance in an effort to stop the knives from reaching his body using his blades. 'Childs play..' he thought to himself regarding the knives, Regardless if the attempt was successful in blocking any of them, he then heard Shuten Speak up as he ran fowards his target, telling Zolgen to follow. Unfortunately for Zolgen He did not have the same transversing abilities as him, so he was not able to make a melee assault. Instead Zolgen moved forwards as quickly as he could towards the same direction that Shuten moved, trailing after him until he stopped near him. He then stopped and looked around the ongoing action with his blades at the ready, incase something else tried to attack him, looking very ready to rumble and step in.

Actions:

1. Attempt blocking Knives from Bandit 2 with swords.

2. Move 30 ft towards Shuten.

3. Move 30 ft to be near Shuten.

LadyOfStars saxon SilverFeathers AbenSur

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

If their deeds hadn’t already lit a flame in Tyrmar’s stomach then their words certainly did, taunting him with his friends fate to anger him, retreating while trying to draw further harm their way.

He had no intentions of holding back this time, as they quickly struck out at him he readied his stance to return the favor when he caught a shadow in his periphery, a hulking ugly beast covered in eyes and a feral look upon its face. He barely had time to shift into a stronger technique before all three were upon him.

Spinning on his heel he went into a spiraling elbow to hopefully meet them head on, his spinning form caught in a familiar gleaming Aura. (Crushing Strike E)

As his movement lost momentum regardless of his injuries he’d glare at all three combatants before his eyes finally fell upon Shuten.

“Wait your turn.” He growled lowly before rocketing off once again in the direction of the bandit he’d first set eyes on, swinging one more overhead strike at him with what seemed to be the last lingering amounts of his strength.

Actions:

Block all three attacks with a spinning [Crushing Strike] E with Natural Weapon E and Str C

Use [Stunning Strike Rush] F to move in on Bandit 1 and attack with Natural Weapons F and Str E, use 60ft of movement to arrive in front of the Linita trio.

Crushing Strike - Exalted Heart Fist [Body] E, [Aura] F, [Energize] E - Hardening his hand with his Aura deeper than before he sends a descending chop meant to slam down upon his enemies and break their bones - Grade E - 0 Post Cooldown

Stunning Strike Rush - Exalted Heart Fist [Body] F, [Aura] F, [Energize] F, [Fast] F - Focusing his battle spirit over his attacks, he sends out a hardy blow reinforced by his impactful glow after rushing in at his opponent - Grade F - 60 ft movement - 0 Post Cooldown

SilverFeathers EMIYAman LadyOfStars TheTimePiece Elvario NeramoDJI

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Battlefield
• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

• Round Outcome
• Ceylan's Summons
• Cooldowns

• Round 4: Round Outcome
  Tyrmar's spinning elbow was a miracle of nature. Fueled by a deadly glow, its momentum fended off most of Shuten-Doji's claw strikes, parried Bandit 1's rapid jab and deflected Machete Man's blade. His arms were left with deep claw marks and bruised skin, rendering them difficult to use at full strength like previous. Additionally, the bolt stuck in his chest had twisted during the scuffle, whilst the wound left on his side by the recent arrow was beginning to fester and burn to the point that it was difficult to ignore. Tyrmar would not be able to stand much longer, but despite this, he powered through and managed to take down yet another bandit. The running spirit-hardened strike struck true, knocking down the bandit on the run in one blow to the back of the head, where the target would lay unable to get up forever.
  
  Spoiler: Tyrmar vs Bandit 1/Machete Man/Shuten-Doji

  Tyrmar vs Bandit 1/Machete Man/Shuten-Doji
  Attack on Tyrmar: 8
  3 (Str D) + 2 (Natural Weapons E) + 1 ([Predictive Jab] F) + 2 (Machete Man's attack + Shuten-Doji's attack)
  Tyrmar defence: 7
  4 (Str C) + 2 (Natural Weapons E) + 1 ([Crushing Strike] E) (NOT using weaker strength to avoid breaking weapons)
  NATURAL WEAPONS DAMAGED (E -> F)
  Damage to Tyrmar: 1
  Narrator call to have damage go straight to HP rather than weapon
  Tyrmar's Health: 2 -> 1
  ---
  Tyrmar vs Bandit 1
  Attack on Bandit 1: 4
  2 (Str E) + 1 (Nat Weapons F) + 1 ([Stunning Strike Rush] F)
  (Aura F = +1 to damage if not dodged/tanked)
  Bandit 1 defence: 3
  3 (Vit D) + 0 (Broken Armour) + 0 (No ability)
  Damage to Bandit 1: 2
  Bandit 1's Health: 2 -> 0 Dead
  
  As the berbalangs chased after Bandit 3, three would suddenly drop dead in the air, one pierced through by a crossbow bolt, the other two nailed in the chest by an arrow.
  
  The flying knives were indeed child's play to Zolgen, who was able to predict their trajectory and deflect them straight back at the foolish woman that had thrown them at him. Both daggers ended up piercing her own shoulder, dark blood immediately spreading on her clothes from the wounds.
  
  Spoiler: Zolgen vs Bandit 2

  Zolgen vs Bandit 2
  Attack on Zolgen: 4
  ???
  Zolgen defence: 5
  3 (Str D) + 2 (Cleaver Sword E) + 0 (No ability)
  DEFENDER WINS
  Damage to Bandit 2: 1
  Bandit 2's Health: ??? -> ???
  
  The machete-wielder whirled around quickly at the approaching noise, hurriedly bringing his meagre blade up for defence. Unfortunately, the already weakened weapon stood no chance against the polished nodachi powered by momentum and strength, crumbling from the impact as the strike continued down its path. With his armour tattered and flying in the wind, the Machete Man's side was fresh for the taking as he was cleaved straight in two. Blood sprayed like a fountain as both halves disorderly collapsed together, one slightly burnt with the aftereffects of a dark-energy fueled fist.
  
  Spoiler: Kurikara vs Machete Man

  Kurikara vs Machete Man
  Attack on Machete Man: 11
  4 (Str C) + 3 (Nodachi D) + 3 ([Sora No Kaze] D) + 1 ([Fūin Hi])
  Machete Man defence: 6
  4 (Str C) + 2 (Machete E) + 0 (No ability)
  ([Slashing] Resistance F = -1 to damage)
  Damage to Machete Man: 4
  Machete Man's Health: 2 -> -2 Dead af
• Ceylan's Summons
  Both celestial beasts remained silent as their summoner conversed with a monster, merely choosing to observe the happenings on the battlefield and await further requests. The armoured beast in particular seemed particularly attentive. Perhaps it was a figment of the imagination, but the gentle smoke emanating from its maw seemed to droop whenever blood stained the marshland.
  
  At Ceylan's request, the armoured beast merely nodded, trotting after him when he ran ahead. "You are slow. Excuse me." The beast scooped Ceylan up with its head, plopping him on its back before galloping the rest of the way. Standing before the guarded and alarmed trio, it let Ceylan disembark and stood to the side without a care, continuing to observe the human and monster scuffle not far away.
  
  The winged snake, that had hitched a ride on its companion's neck, seemed more curious of this strange gathering of individuals, staring its beady little eyes at each of the Linita trio in turn.
  
  Spoiler: Summons

  

  
• Cooldowns
  Tyrmar Regen E (3/5)
  Zolgen E abilities off cooldown (1/1)
  Ceylan
  
  • B Grade CD's (2/4)
  • C Grade CD's (2/3)
  • D Grade CD's off cooldown (2/2)
  • E Grade CD's off cooldown (1/1)
  Kurikara: D Grade CD's (0/2)
  Bandit 2: D Grade CD's (1/2)
  Winged Snake: C Grade CD's (1/3)
  

Round 5: Bandits' Turn
Bandit 3/Ardo
"What a fucking tragedy." He couldn't help but laugh in the face of his incoming death. "Guess I really shouldn't have left the circus life huh."

"Well, Katelyn, Luca, it was a pleasure knowing you two. I was, and still am, really grateful heh." The small bandit smiled brightly, circling around the undying beast that was Tyrmar and shoving both of his last companions behind him. Pulling out a sickle, he agilely danced forward, slashing at Tyrmar twice tauntingly.

Bandit 2/Katelyn
Gritting her teeth, the woman swivelled westward and ran as fast as she could, forcibly pulling her son along with her. Her gaze flickered with emotion, before staring resolutely at the sloping cliff face not far ahead of them.

Archer 1/Luca
"Ardo-" The archer called out quietly, his expression still one of disbelief from the current situation. Briefly lifting up his bow, he didn't seem to know who or what to shoot, so he just continued to run beside his mother.

Round 5: Lirek's, Ninelle's & Taji's Turn
With the bleeding sufficiently stopped, Ninelle was wrapped in something resembling a hammock made of worn fabric and tied securely to Lirek's chest. The bloodied pieces and parts Taji could find in the grassy marsh lay with her as they prepared to move, wary of the bandits leading the battle to their vicinity. The crude bandaging wrapped around Taji's upper leg dripped with blood, keeping Lirek's attention despite knowing they had no time to spare.

"The closest village is at least a day's walk north." Lirek commented quietly.
"You think a village healer will suffice?" Taji snapped back.
"What other choice do we have? Me choosing a path that avoids people as much as possible has really bit us in the ass." Lirek sighed with a shake of his head, his eyes expressing his regret.
"Act first. Think late-" Taji replied quickly, his cracked eyes aglow as he prepared to help Tyrmar and Kurikara out on the battlefield, but was caught off-guard by the sudden invasion from the side.

"Stand back." He growled a warning in a tone so deathly frigid it pierced the heart. It was clear that the strange creatures had no intention to attack straight away, but especially considering that the beastkin had seen them approach from the bandits' rear, their intentions were something to question. Taji's clawless paws burst with flames of dark magic, ready to strike immediately if they took one wrong step.

EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario LadyOfStars TheTimePiece NeramoDJI

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Ninelle/Lerik/Taji/Summons SilverFeathers | Tyrmar AbenSur | Kurikara EMIYAman

It was a fair bit odd to be called 'slow' and then thrown onto the back of the armoured beast with an 'excuse me' all of a sudden. Ceylan respected the summons far too much to even consider using one as a mere mount, yet here he was, riding a celestial being. Even with all the blood and drama going on and with his head still hurting from an earlier knock-out, his tail was attempting for take-off with how fast it wagged left and right at the experience of riding the armoured beast.

He did wobble a bit on his legs as he got off, but quickly turned to the ones that spoke to him. Or rather, commanded him to stand back. “It's alright.” He said, raising his hands to show he had no hostile intentions. He failed to note his summons might as well be drawn weapons. In turn, however, he was quick to try getting some knowledge on who/what he was dealing with here, using [Scanning the Mood E] on the three in front of him (and on his two summons while at it, as he was getting curious as to their odd behaviour towards this battlefield).

That said, even without scanning their mood, a few things were already obvious. They were weary and they were trying to save something. He actually needed a second look to realise who or what they were trying to save. “She's hurt. Allow me to help.” He'd made his decision. From what the snake had told him, these likely weren't bandits themselves and merely other victims like himself. Besides, they clearly cared a lot about that small companion of theirs, odd as she looked. Recalling that his summons mentioned the human and armoured warrior had been part of their group as well and were now currently dealing with the bandits, Ceylan decided to include them in his next step.

Gathering his magic, he offered the gods a short prayer and asked for [Divine Healing] D upon Ninelle, Lirek, Taji, Tyrmar and Kurikara. He wasn't sure which of them actually needed it, other than the fairy being in the clearest need, but the gods have granted him enough power to not have to use it sparingly. “I can aid more later, when I've rested a bit.” And when the B Grade CD runs out. “This should help her survive, at least.”

With that out of the way, there was one more thing that bothered him. He wanted to sent in his summons to aid the battle, but he also wanted to know more of their 'place' here. No. Knowledge could wait. There were more urgent matters. “Thank you for bringing me here.” He gave a short bow towards his summons. “I'm not sure what your relation to this battlefield is, but I'm afraid I must ask for you to thread upon it once more. I'd like for you to help the human and armoured warrior. As much as I'm glad those monsters let me live, I can't stand by and watch them or those bandits harm those that are a force of good.” He felt a bit of guilt towards Maikoa, which was why he didn't wish to outright command his summons to attack the monsters, but his faith wouldn't allow him to stand by as harm was befalling the innocent. With some luck, they'd just back off, but perhaps that was wishful thinking on his end.

B Grade CD's (3/4)
C Grade CD's (3/3)
D Grade CD's (0/2)
Divine Healing - Magic D, Magic Range E, Magic Targets E, Healing D, Religion D
- Character channels the powers of the gods to heal significant injuries.
Magic Range E - 100ft away – 30 metres
Magic Targets E - up to 10 targets simultaneously
D - Emergency aid to prolong life of dying, restore senses so long as organs are still present.
- Grade D - 2 Post Cooldown.
E Grade CD's (0/1)
Scanning the Mood – Magic E, Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Appraisal E - Empathy E
– Character uses their senses to pick up on the mood of those around them.
Magic Range F - 30ft away – 9 metres
Magic Targets F - up to 5 targets simultaneously
- Grade E – 2 Post Cooldown.

 

[LadyOfStars]

Shuten-Doji

​

He felt his claws open the man's flesh, but once again he was unable to secure the kill. "Grrr..." Shuten-Doji's anger climbed as the monster watched his target escape him once again. At the same time, one of his eyes watched as the berbalngs were being shot down one by one. Useless little pests. He could see Zolgen had been fighting another enemy, but he could not see Maikoa nearby. He knew she was shy when it came to battle, but now was not the time to cower.

The monster had lost his patience a long time ago, but he was not going to run away with his tail tucked between his legs. Letting out a heavy sigh, Shuten-Doji began to straighten up, standing on what were his hind legs to reach his full height of seven feet tall. "Argh!" He let out a roar that bellowed out over the battlefleet, his war cry, and then charged back into the fight.

His talon-like feet pounded the ground as he dashed after Tyrmar while keeping his eyes focused on everything and everyone around him. His tendrils came to life and launched at Tyrmar to lash out at the man. The lone surviving berbalang was now too scared to finish what the others had started and began quickly turned around to find its master.

Actions:

• Shuten-Doji Move to Tyrmar
  • Uses Ability Tendril Lashing on tyrmar
• Berbalang returns to Shuten-Doji

• Tendril Lashing - Fighting Style [Horror] F - Range, Feature [Dozen Eyes] 360 Degrees of Vision, Feature [Tendrils] F, Feature [Razor Tail] F - Shuten-Doji whips his tendrils and tail around, lashing out at those within range like a whip. - Grade F, Range 2.5 to 10Feet - 0 Post Cooldown

saxon NeramoDJI TheTimePiece SilverFeathers

 

[TheTimePiece]

Zolgen

​

Zolgen saw Shuten moving in, and despite the associated risks decided to follow towards Tyrmar. There was a blood lust from within Zolgen that needed to satiated and seeing that this battle was not going in their favor was far from perfect. He didn't understand why Maikoa hadn't devoured the tied up one earlier and gotten on her way to brutalize the living here much earlier, but she hadn't attacked last time earlier, nor did it seem she was keen on hurting a sentient being from the time he had known her so far..Irrespective of that he decided now was the time to Strike Tyrmar, he saw that there were likely many around them and he wasn't sure how many he could handle, as the bandits dwindled and what he cared more about in that moment than most anything was delivering violence against his foes regardless. He was there to feed and feed he would on whoever he pleased even if it meant taking on some violence himself. Zolgen saw Shuten leap and made his way towards Tyrmar besides Shuten and got in close enough to use

Fighting Style Fiendish Twin Blade E,
Linked F
If his first blade connects his next blade quickly follows after to try to connect.

on Tyrmar.

Actions:

1. Zolgen moves 30 ft towards Tyrmar.
2. Zolgen moves 30 ft to Shuten now near Tyrmar.
3.Zolgen uses Fighting Style Fiendish Twin Blade E,
Linked F
on Tyrmar.

saxon NeramoDJI LadyOfStars SilverFeathers Elvario EMIYAman AbenSur

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

As he landed his last blow on one of their final opponents Tyrmar allowed himself a moment of rest, his wounds once more reminded him of their existence as pain lanced through his body. The cut on his side burned as it made contact with the air and the arrowhead lodged in his stomach certainly didn’t help as it shifted with his movements.

His arms and body were littered with cuts from the bandits and beast that he’d defended against and seemed to shake from overtaxing himself with his strikes.

Yet before him stood a giant cat abomination, a cow headed sword swinger and a wannabe circus reject. At his back were his injured companions, all capable in their own right and possibly able to defend themselves but he’d be damned if he’d just let danger pass by him while he still stood.

As his enemies approached he was given no warning for their numerous attacks, wide reaching and deadly he could do nothing but set his stance to prepare to receive them all. Then it was as if he’d been struck with a miracle, the cuts on his form sealed themselves closed and with a grunt the arrowhead lodged in his flesh found itself forced out.

Within but a few moments time he was in top condition once more, in a brazen display he pivoted on his foot showing his back to his enemies allowing himself to smile at his healed friends before rotating violently in a reverse roundhouse to meet all of their strikes head on, his body wreathed in that ever present golden sheen.

Whatever the results of his actions he’d turn to face Zolgen and Shuten with a monstrous grin of his own, showing his appreciation for their obstruction with a Stunning Strike yo the sternum for both of them. They were bigger, looked meaner and certainly were scarier but that dampened none of his excitement as he swung at them.

Actions: Block the three pronged attack with Crushing Strike E and Natural Weapons C

Attacks Shuten and Zolgen with a Stunning Strike each

Crushing Strike - Exalted Heart Fist [Body] E, [Aura] F, [Energize] E - Hardening his hand with his Aura deeper than before he sends a descending chop meant to slam down upon his enemies and break their bones - Grade E - 0 Post Cooldown

Stunning Strike - Exalted Heart Fist [Body] F, [Aura] F, [Energize] F - Focusing his battle spirit over his attacks, he sends out a hardy blow reinforced by his impactful glow - Grade F - Nil Post Cooldown

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Elvario LadyOfStars TheTimePiece NeramoDJI

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Battlefield
• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

• Ceylan
• Round Outcome
• Cooldowns

• Ceylan
  During the standoff, the celestial beasts' gaze lingered on the dark magic fueling the beastkin's paws as Ceylan appraised the five around him.
  
  Appraisal E results:
  
  • Ninelle (E Grade) [Fae] [Fairy] [Construct] [Abomination] [Tiny]
  • Taji (E Grade) [Beast] [FelineFolk] [Escaped Slave] [Servant] [Lady's Pet] [Fugitive of the Eastern Empire]
  • Lirek (E Grade) [Beast] [Anuran] [Escaped Slave] [Courier] [Labourer] [Fugitive of the Eastern Empire]
  • Armoured Beast (???)
  • Winged Snake (???)
  The mechanical fairy lifelessly lying in a hammock-pocket was unconscious, but the bloody tear streaks and scrunched up expression was more than enough to speak of her suffering. The way she writhed and curled herself deeper into a ball seemed to speak of deeper pain also, as if she was stuck in an endless nightmare.
  
  The black-furred felinefolk was obviously on edge, weary but determined to protect the pair behind him. However with the erratic flickering of his ears and tail, Ceylan could read the frustration and anxiousness behind his confident front. The blue-skinned anuran stood cautiously, eyeing everyone that had approached with a calm gaze. But there was a bitterness in those silver eyes of his, with some resignation and numbness buried deep.
  
  The celestial beasts were difficult to read, not only because of their small or non-existent faces, but because they were of a higher level. The armoured beast seemed vaguely solemn and wistful, whereas the winged snake seemed perfectly calm. However, Ceylan would note that the snake's eyes would also occasionally drift to the blood on the marshland, but was simply much less obvious about it compared to the other celestial beast.
  ---
  The warm glow that settled in the hearts of the trio was nothing short of a miracle. As Taji felt the wound on his leg close up, he dissipated his magic without a care and rushed over to Lirek's side. Though the fae still slept, the gaping hole in her chest was closing up, magically sewing her body back together. The relief that flooded both beastkin was obvious to anyone.
  
  Round 5: Ceylan's Summons
  The armoured beast stared at Ceylan quietly for a moment, before giving a silent nod of compliance and dashing past Kurikara to Tyrmar's side. Noticing the many attackers, the beast simply chose to not slow down and charge straight at the sickle-wielding bandit. The winged snake, still coiled discreetly around its companion's neck, opened its maw. Speckles of pale mana rapidly congregated in a core, as rapid-fire laser beams were shot out, some aimed at Shuten-Doji's tendrils, the others at Zolgen's cleavers.
  
  
  Spoiler: Summons

  

  
• Round 5: Round Outcome
  Unlike previous, Tyrmar's powerful defensive strike was not sufficient to fully fend off the combined might of this trio. However, with the aid of his sudden new allies, all attacks were parried successfully. The sickle-wielder was knocked off-guard by the beast's charge, his strikes easily deterred by Tyrmar's roundhouse kick. Shuten-Doji's tendrils, with some burnt and knocked back by the snake's beams, couldn't find an opening to lash out. Zolgen's cleavers were the main force deflected by Tyrmar's strike, the additional aiding magic blasts meaning he left no dent in Tyrmar's skin. Instead, it was the pure force of Tyrmar's own strike that tore and damaged his legs internally, leaving himself unable to wield another attack of the same magnitude.
  
  Spoiler: Tyrmar vs Bandit 1/Machete Man/Shuten-Doji

  Tyrmar vs Bandit 1/Machete Man/Shuten-Doji
  Attack on Tyrmar: 11
  3 (Str D) + 2 (Cleaver Sword E) + 2 (E grade ability) + 4 (Linked F + Shuten-Doji's attack + Bandit 3's two attacks)
  Tyrmar defence: 11
  4 (Str C) + 2 (Natural Weapons E) + 2 ([Crushing Strike] E) (NOT using weaker strength to avoid breaking weapons) + 3 (Ceylan's summons: charge + 2 flurries of beams)
  NATURAL WEAPONS DAMAGED (E -> F)
  Damage to Tyrmar: 0
  Tyrmar's Health: 4
  
  Shuten-Doji and Zolgen now have the opportunity to defend against Tyrmar's Stunning Strikes(F).
  (Tyrmar must wait for them to post first)
• Cooldowns
  Tyrmar Regen E (4/5)
  Ceylan
  
  • B Grade CD's (3/4)
  • C Grade CD's off cooldown (3/3)
  • D Grade CD's (0/2)
  • E Grade CD's (0/1)
  Kurikara: D Grade CD's (1/2)
  Bandit 2: D Grade CD's off cooldown (2/2)
  Winged Snake: C Grade CD's (2/3)
  

Round 6: Bandits' Turn
Bandit 3/Ardo
"Wow, look at how many allies you have all of a sudden. And enemies." He couldn't help but chuckle as monsters and creatures of all sizes jumped into the fray. "Guess that bitch woke up huh." He narrowed his eyes, glancing ever so briefly at the dog-eared humanoid not too far away.

"It was fun fighting, but uh, I gotta go." The small bandit cackled brightly, glancing backwards to see how far his allies had gotten, before running after them. He was prepared to put his life down here, but since there was a chance at survival, who wouldn't grasp it?

Bandit 2/Katelyn
Once they had reached the cliff side, the woman grasped the younger bandit by the shoulders and stared at the top of the cliff. Her earrings shone like stars as she chanted, much to her son's dismay.

"Live, Luca. Don't worry, I'll come up soon." Were the words she used to end her chanting, as the archer was teleported to the top of the small cliff.

• Blink D (Magic D, Magic Range E (100ft), Teleport E (100ft))

Archer 1/Luca
The archer dashed to the edge of the cliff face, peering down at his mother in agitation. He didn't call out, perhaps not to draw attention, but he remained extremely anxious as he could do nothing but wait from where he was.

Round 6: Lirek's, Ninelle's & Taji's Turn
"Thank you for your help, stranger." Lirek shook off his stupor and nodded solemnly at Ceylan, showing his genuine gratitude. "Time is of the essence however. Taji, stay here and protect them." He spoke quickly, grabbing his stolen gear and running off after Ceylan's summons to go aid Tyrmar.

"What is your relation to those monsters?" Taji questioned abruptly, as he was suddenly left with the responsibility of cradling a fairy and protecting a stranger. "You have saved her life, and no words could express my gratitude for that, but, that does not mean I can guarantee your inhuman friends over there can leave here alive." He stated quietly, not hoping to make an enemy of Ceylan, but to warn him mentally of the consequences of his actions.

"I think this battle is mostly over, but just in case, take this." Taji stuffed some random herbs in Ceylan's hand, though Ceylan wouldn't be able to discern their uses. "These were gathered by the fairy. It's not much, but its all we have. I'm sure she'd want you to have this." He nodded quickly before turning his wary attention back to the battlefield.

EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario LadyOfStars TheTimePiece NeramoDJI

 

[TheTimePiece]

Zolgen
​

All of this external interference as Zolgen tried to cut Tyrmar down was really aggravating him now, not to mention the energy from the force hitting him as he felt the pain. Unlike for some this pain was not detering for him, but to see all of these beings appear between that and the healing, he had no intention of dying that day. After Zolgen's swords were forced into not being able to cut Tyrmar's flesh, and Zolgen's limbs hurt now some, He was going to remember Tyrmar, and the next time he saw him they would have a fair fight without all of this incredibly frustrating interference. If Tyrmar was worthy he might spare him if a next time came. He got into a defensive stance when he saw the retaliatory strikes incoming and tried to block any that would come his way with his cleaver swords and arms if need be.

He'd let out a sound of frustration, before he'd turn to Shuten. "As much as I want to stay and fight they're up to their tricks Shuten, healing and assisting their allies. We need to leave while we still can and regroup with Maikoa. When they've cleared out we can harvest what was left behind." He proclaimed. Regardless whether or not Zolgen was successful in his defensive stance he'd shake himself off from the exerted force, turn around and use two move actions to move 60 ft in the direction of Maikoa, moving as quickly as his tall musculature would let him.

Actions:
1. Defensive stance with effort to block Tyrmar using swords/arms.
2. Move 30 Ft towards Maikoa as quickly as possible.
3. Move 30 Ft towards Maikoa as quickly as possible again.

SilverFeathers AbenSur LadyOfStars NeramoDJI Elvario EMIYAman

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: LiNiTa/Summons SilverFeathers

His [Divine Senses] had shown Ceylan some surprising results. Not only was the tiny one some odd abomination, but the other two were actually escaped slaves. But... how the hell did one become [Lady's Pet!?!] Ceylan wasn't sure if he actually wanted to know that, on second thought. He also realised these were Eastern Empire Fugitives, which, combined with the Escaped Slave titles, told him enough about their situation. Only the fairy's role in all of this was unclear, but they clearly treasured her. Perhaps she'd been the one who freed them?

More surprising, however, was the fact that he got nothing from his summons. Had he managed to summon something stronger than his Divine Senses could get a read on? That shouldn't technically be possible, but then again, he didn't exactly know a lot about summoning. Besides, these creatures clearly had some bond to the area, so perhaps the veil between where he'd summoned them from and this place had been thin enough for even a weaker summoning to bring them here? Either way, he was grateful for their help, even if he couldn't learn much about them.

Luckily enough, Ceylan's healing and his request for his summons to back up the warriors was enough to have the FelineFolk pacify. Seeing them happy with their small companion healing nicely made Ceylan happy in return, both as he couldn't confirm the results of his healing himself from where he was at and due to him genuinely gaining happiness from other's happiness. His tail was eager to reflect that happiness, as it swayed back and forth at a regular pace.

The tail stopped wagging when Taji suddenly question Ceylan's relation to the monsters. That was a difficult question to answer, in part at least. “I don't know the ones that are fighting right now, nor would I call them friends. However, for some reason, they decided to spare me just now. Regardless if it was out of kindness or mere disinterest, I'll have to admit it makes me wish they'll just retreat. Also, I do know the tree-like one in the back. She once aided me in curing the Holy City of Vegard in the north of Kuridan, but considering the monsters accompanying her, I'm afraid she might've given in to her nature.” That was all he felt the need to say about that topic.

That said, he was a bit surprised by the herbs he'd been given. He had no clue what those were for, so he just decided to keep them safe for now. As Taji returned his attention to the battlefield, so did Ceylan. He could see the summons he'd sent in were already engaging the enemy. Or rather, they were doing exactly what he wanted them to do, defending the Human. He made a mental note to ask them if he could do anything to thank them for their aid the moment the bandits and monsters would've cleared out of this area.

B Grade CD's (4/4)
C Grade CD's (0/3)
D Grade CD's (1/2)
E Grade CD's (1/1)

 

[LadyOfStars]

Shuten-Doji



​

The monster grit his teeth in frustration as their attempts to slay Tyrmar once again got them nowhere, the man even attacked the back, proving they were too weak to scare him. As Shuten-Doji threw up his large arms to use them as shields against the incoming attack, he though on what Zolgen had proposed. "Fine!" His ally was right, they could not win this fight and were only risking their own lives at this point. They needed to regroup and form a more advantageous plan. So like his partner, Shuten-Doji started to retreat from the battlefield, dropping back down to run on all fours.

Actions:

• Defend against Tyrmar's Attack
• Retreat back to Maikoa

TheTimePiece saxon SilverFeathers NeramoDJI

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
Mentions: SilverFeathers AbenSur Elvario LadyOfStars TheTimePiece
​

Kurikara stared down at his former opponent. The blade in his hands was partially sunk into the earth from the force of his attack. Now both it and him were covered in blood. He could feel it drip down over his face plate, it even obscured a couple of his eyes. What remained of the bandit was just barely resembling a human; it was little more than meat. The little Magic Kurikara could use had even charred a portion of the body. The armored warrior had made his judgement clear, for his transgressions the had paid his due in full. He held no grudge or resentment, he was a weapon after all and a weapon had no use for such things. All thats left was duty. Within him Kurikara could feel the satisfaction of the voice, even now he was unsure of what it wanted. He had once thought he understood it, but no longer.

He calmed himself, the remnants of his rage going from an inferno to mere embers. His eyes focused as he realized the human Tyrmar had followed him into battle engaging the remnant bandits. He could see some were escaping while another wielding a sickle charged the Tyrmar. They were wasting enough time with these rabble. Kurikara raised his blood soaked blade and made to jo- He stopped. Bounding towards them swiftly two Monsters appeared. He had not noticed them before but he could tell they were unlike the common beasts which roamed the wilds. They rushed past him intending to go for Tyrmar, perhaps they smelled his lack of flesh and didn't think of Kurikara as food, or maybe they saw the human as more vulnerable. Either way Kurikara could not stand by. Taking a step forward he rushed to defend Tyrmar, only to find his feet heavy as if he was pushing through sand.

'What is this!?'

To answer his inquiry a message appeared in his mind.

WARNING: FIERCE DEITY KURIKARA LOCOMOTIVE ABILITY COMPROMISED
ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE FIBERS IN LOWER EXTREMITIES SEVERED DUE TO EXCESSIVE STRAIN
REGENERATING...

If he had a face it would be twisted into anger. He hadn't seen this coming. Despite his weakness he had been confident in his power; in his body. Why wouldn't he be? But the reality of the situation was staring him in the face.

'With just a little taste of power you overtaxed your system. To think you'd go all out without considering the risk. I told you that you couldn't unseal the Book of Fire as you are. You can't handle it, even just a trickle was enough to render you immobile. How humorous.'

'DAMN YOU!' Lashing out in anger Kurikara was forced to watch as the Monsters set upon Tyrmar. He could move his gauntlets but legs were all but impossible, just a single step had become incredibly difficult. Practically trapped in his own body Kurikara was helpless to destroy the evil before him, and unable to defend his charges. For a being like him, it was the worst punishment. A tool with no use; an incredibly pitiful thing.

'Savor it fool, the consequences of your ignorance... Hm, there is another wayward mortal coming.' Just as the voice said a beastkin man arrived with bizarre creatures in tow. They did not seem like Monsters but they looked just as potentially dangerous. With muttered words from the canine beast Ceylan, Kurikara felt a nostalgic energy suffuse him and the surrounding area. He could see the wounds of Tyrmar sealing themselves quickly, and for the first time Kurikara had noticed the state of the fairy Ninelle. He had been so focused on defeating his enemy he hadn't noticed her plight. 'The stench of the divine cling to that mortal. An interesting fate lies ahead for that one.' The voice sounded haughty as usual but there was an edge to it that wasn't there before. Kurikara could feel its amusement.

At Ceylans command the divine beasts repelled the Monsters and pursued them. While it didn't repair his armor the healing light of the priest aided in the recovery of his artificial muscles. The time need to regenerate them cutting down significantly.

'MOVE! MOVE!!!' Kurikara rage surged as he did all he could to force his limbs back into motion. Memories of the undead abominations came back to him as the Monsters began to retreat. His finger twitched, it was all he could do to express his feelings. To the others he would have been silent, as he refused to show his weakness so frankly to them. He watched evil escape him once again, vanishing into the distance.

REGENERATION OF ARTIFICIAL MUSCLE FIBERS COMPLETE
ALL HAIL ALVHEIM

In a sudden motion he stepped forward and sub sequentially tripped, falling upon the ground. Kurikara quickly raised his head up and lifted himself to his knees. But it was too late. He couldn't reach them even at his top speed, and all that would do is damage his body further potentially beyond what his armor could repair on its own. As he watched his enemies escape dark energy coalesced around his arm. With a rage filled shout he slammed it into the ground. He then raised himself to his feet. His blade remained drawn but was held down towards the ground, now without purpose. He saw Lirek coming up behind. Kurikara turned to face him, then to the resolute form of Tyrmar. "We must regroup. This battle has sapped us of our strength. Heal and tend to the wounded, then we keep going. I will see this finished... You are a warrior human, there is no doubt about that." Kurikara offered that one vague compliment standing unwavering and seemingly unbothered as before, giving no answer for his inactivity. While his words were calm the ever perceptive Tyrmar would detect the frustration smothered beneath.

He walked to where Taji, Ninelle, and the beastkin stranger Ceylan were. He stared at the priest unspeaking, then to the unconscious form of Ninelle. Her wound was gone, but the state of her mechanical limbs was uncertain. "Resuscitate the Fae if possible. If not, then we shall carry her till she awakes." He brought his faceless gaze to Ceylan. "Your aid was not asked for, but it saved those who I have taken responsibility for. Allowing me to continue with my mission for that, I am... grateful." Kurikara spoke as if he had chewed on something particularly bitter. "Who are you? Beast with the trappings of the divine."

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar
​

As he put up his guard once me in preparation for a counterattack, Tyrmar was slightly surprised to see the monsters in an evasive movement away from him and his companions he let himself rest. As he looked around at the carnage of the battlefield he realized the obvious gap in numbers and how they were quickly healed must’ve made them reconsider their odds, he noted they seemed quite cautious for monsters and made sure memorize as much as he could from them.

After making sure there’d be no enemies coming once his back was turned, he gave an amused snort at the stoic Kurikara’s compliment before turning and rushing back to the now surrounded Ninelle.

“I’m glad that you’re alright Ninelle” he sighed in relief before turning his attention to Ceylan as well “thank you stranger, if nothing else you have my gratitude for healing us but my companion is right we should find shelter for the day. I’ll welcome you to join us as well as your beastial companions, but simply keep in mind” for a moment Tyrmar’s eyes sharpened into a glare that the group had not seen before “priest or not any more attacks on my friends’ person will be met with lethal retaliation.”

Elvario SilverFeathers TheTimePiece LadyOfStars NeramoDJI EMIYAman

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji
• Ninelle
• ???
• ???

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

​

Combat is over. No need to write out actions anymore, but respect ability cooldowns as usual.

• Taji&Lirek
• Ninelle
• Ceylan's Summons

• Taji
  "I see. Perhaps it was their greed that led them to ignore you at the time." Taji speculated quietly, watching as said monsters grouped up and fled far into the distance. The idea of a monster curing a holy city was a strange thought, but the felinefolk did not care enough about their history to inquire further.
  
  "Kuridan? You have travelled far. But, why would you come all the way to a nation known for enslaving our kind?" He questioned without thinking, his eyes slightly drooping from fatigue as the rush of adrenaline began to wear off. "You don't have to answer, actually. Sorry." He backtracked after a pause, silently coming to his own conclusions on it being a sensitive matter. After all, such a journey was likely not just done 'for fun'.
  
  Rubbing his eye with a small sigh, he kept a wary ear out for ambushes and surprise attacks as he watched all of his allies re-group.
  
  Lirek
  Lirek, as someone that had rushed over to help once Lirek and Ninelle's safety was secured, caught Kurikara's actions quite keenly. He watched his frozen stance, his sudden trip after being healed and his energy-fueled punch at the ground. He eyed him with a fleeting glance of pity, before nodding at his words and returning to the others, giving a short glance towards the fleeing bandits to the west, and the retreating monsters to the north-east.
  
  Lirek couldn't help but chuckle and shake his head at Kurikara's bitter words and Tyrmar's sudden threat. "Now now, the fighting's over isn't it? Let's not start by interrogating the poor fellow. As far as I am concerned, every single one of you saved our lives." He smiled brightly, his gaze passing over Kurikara in particular, though some intruding thoughts seemed to make his smile dim after a moment.
  
  "Let's talk after we move." The armoured anuran picked up his walking stick and started leading the trek to the distant ruined castle, far from the stench of blood and death.
• Ninelle
  No one knew when the fae had awoken, but she remained still and silent as if in a daze. Surrounded by scraps of white metal in a blood-stained hammock, she felt oddly at peace, giving her time to ease her restless memories and thoughts.
  
  Taking a deep breath, she brought a hand to where the hole in her chest should be, feeling nothing but warm skin and cool metal. She winced as she recalled the arrow and the pain, but once again, she had survived. And the gift of life, as cruel as it may be, was not one to take lightly.
  
  After shifting the misaligned metal pieces on her torso, she slowly tied the torn edges of her hanfu back together. Finding her fallen mask amidst the rubble of her nest, she put it back on, despite knowing full well there wasn't really a point to it at this stage. Still, there was something deeply comforting about being able to hide herself behind a memento from home.
  
  Swaying gently in the hammock, she decided to rest and wait for a bit before making her awakening known.
• Ceylan's Summons
  The armoured beast trotted back over to Ceylan's side, following after the trio of Tyrmar, Kurikara and Lirek without a word. Its steps were oddly silent, even as it traversed through mud and water. Though the navy beast seemed vastly disinterested in everyone's heartfelt reunion after a victorious battle royale, the winged snake coiled around its neck was a different story, smiling and bobbing its head gently at each member of the group.
  
  It was only when Tyrmar threatened its summoner that the armoured one made a warning noise, a low, ethereal-sounding harrumph as its orange and blue smoke flared bright. Seeing as it didn't move, it seemed a bit less of a deadly warning, and more that the beast was making its wary presence known. The winged snake didn't seem to care much however, seemingly staring straight through Kurikara with beady, curious eyes, even as the group began to move.
  
  EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: LiNiTa/Summons SilverFeathers | Kurikara EMIYAman | Tyrmar AbenSur

Ceylan's tail was swaying left to right and right to left and a gentle pace, as he saw the monsters retreat and his newest friends return in one piece, along with his summons. Everything had worked out well! That happiness vanished soon, when the heavily armoured knight suddenly 'thanked' him in an almost hostile manner. He figured he'd answer his question and counter his aggression with the same statement. “I am Ceylan. High Priest of the Syncretist Church. Aiding those in need, for the sake of good, is our church's calling, whether it is asked of us or not.” He debated asking the warrior to give his name in turn, but ended up deciding against it. After all, he did not wish to start an argument so shortly after this battle.

To make matters worse, after the black cat and armoured warrior had all been 'thanking' him with a mixture of threats, hostility and distrust, the shirtless warrior decided to join in on that as well. By now, Ceylan's tail was hanging low and his ears had drooped down even more than normal. Had these people gone through so much hardships that they couldn't accept kindness? Being threatened really took any sense of fulfilment away from being thanked. More so, however, he was worried that these folk had gone through so much trauma that they couldn't even trust someone. Still, he'd try to answer with calm and kindness, using a [Soothing Aura] on those around him to try calm them after the battle and to heal up any injuries that might still linger, in particular for the fairy who'd been injured the most. “I'm not sure why you believe me to be a threat, but I can assure you, I harbour no ill will towards any of you.”

That left him with the feline from before, who was still harbouring distrust. “It is fine, my reasons aren't secretive or complex.” It was not a difficult question to answer, although he did have to think about how to tell it in the most tactful manner. “Truth be told, I'm not even sure where I am, but judging from your answer, I'm the Eastern Empire now... I was in Kuridan, visiting a Cardinal of my faith in the Paizu Mountains. The passage back into Kuridan was non-traversable, so I had to take a detour travelling along the border with the East Empire. My memory from there is a bit hazy. I think the bandits might've captured me at night, as I can't recall much after going to sleep for the night and waking up in this place with a severe headache. I'm not sure how long they've kept me unconscious, but it seems like their run-in with your group an those monsters ended up granting me back my freedom. In that regard, I owe you all my thanks.”

There was one thing, however, Ceylan himself was weary of. He looked at Taji. Whilst he didn't outright distrust the feline even though it was one of those disgusting FelineFolk, the dark magic he sensed hadn't left his mind just yet. “I sensed some rather dark magic coming from you. Whilst I won't judge you for having it, I do wish to let you know that if it is part of a curse, I'm willing and able to cleanse it.” That was probably the most tactful way in which he could address it without sounding too hostile or judgemental.

As they headed towards the ruined castle, following the frog-man for reasons unknown to Ceylan, he addressed his summons. “Would either of you mind elaborating on your ties to this place? It's clear to me that your presence here isn't random and that this wasn't the first blood you saw spilled in these lands. If there is something that binds you here, or something you wish to see done here, I'm more than willing to try aid you however I can. It's the least I could do in return for aid you've both given me.” As he said it, he suddenly realised something. “And please, forgive me for only asking just now, but what should I address each of you by? You're free to both call me Ceylan.” He wasn't sure if summoned beasts like these had titles or names, but they probably had something he could call them, so the polite thing to do was to ask about it.

Finally, however, he turned his curiosity to Lirek. “Considering I have no clue where we are, I don't mind following along, but I must ask. What is our destination? Is there any particular reason for us to be heading towards these ruins?”

B Grade CD's (0/4)
Soothing Aura – Magic Affinity B, Healing B, Magic Range C, Magic Targets C, Magic Duration C, Religion C, Empathy D – Character has a soothing aura that calms and heals those around them. - Grade B – 4 Post Cooldown.
C Grade CD's (0/3)
D Grade CD's (2/2)
E Grade CD's (o/1)

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

As the party moved forward with their new Tagalongs, Tyrmar took a moment to double back and go behind one of the stones unmarred by blood or bile to drag out the boar they’d caught that morning. After a tough fought battle they could all do with some good food under a roof for once, and he for one needed a shower if not for himself then to save Ninelle the smells once she awoke.

“You can simply call me Tyrmar, a warrior, adventurer and chef by trade. I gotta say for a Priest you sure seem to have some devilish luck.” He returned to the dogman with a lopsided grin, his eyes passing curiously over the summoned divine companions by his side and wondering whether they had the standard tastes as ordinary beings before shrugging and deciding to worry when he got to it.

“I hope you’re all hungry, I’ll have a meal that’ll leave your mouths watering and your stomachs grumbling! Even you Kurikara, hahahaha!” Though he didn’t eat, his emotions revealed that he found the smell of certain things to at least be pleasant so Tyrmar had made sure to emphasis scents for the last week’s meals. In good spirits with the rest of the day to look forward too Tyrmar continued on chatting with both Ceylan and the divine beasts.

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Elvario

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji
• Nashi
• Ninelle
• Valhyr
• Hymn

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

​

Location: Eastern Empire, somewhere in the west, ???(marshland/plains) -> ???(ruined castle)
Time: Evening (1 week after the events of part 1) -> Late evening
Weather: Cool, Windy, Cloudy -> Fog is lifting, weather is getting cooler, wind is picking up

• Replies
• The Soothing Aura
• Ceylan's Summons
• The Ruined Castle

• Replies
  "For someone of your status, you are very down-to-earth. And I mean that in a good way." Taji commented with mild surprise flickering across his features at Ceylan's introduction. "It is fortunate that we chanced upon each other then. You do not want to experience that life." He added quietly, after listening to the high priest's story. At Ceylan's consequent inquiry however, Taji couldn't help but grow a little defensive, subconsciously distancing himself from the priest with his eyes narrowing. "...my magic is no curse, I can assure you of that. Though I can understand your concerns as a priest of light." He began cautiously, pondering each word. "It is something that runs in my family. And something that has secretly helped me survive for many years. Without it, I wouldn't be here." He continued quietly, before trailing off into silence.
  
  Fortunately, Tyrmar was clearly an easygoing sort, quickly helping ease and lighten up the atmosphere with one of his favoured topics of discussion. "Always so eager to show off your cooking skills, do we not praise you enough Tyrmar? You hafta rope in this poor priest as well?" Lirek guffawed, wantonly leading the way with a merry smile after glancing back at the boar now trailing the party. "He speaks the truth though, you should look forward to it comrade." He smiled kindly towards the dog man, easily accepting and treating him how anyone would treat a comrade from the battlefield.
  
  "Our destination is Ryke! But with the skies darkening so quickly, we are simply seeking shelter. I know you likely just woke up, but we've been travelling all day before the battle, and we likely won't find a better source of shelter in a long while." He replied openly to Ceylan's inquiries, prodding forward through the marsh at a steady pace. "You can accompany us for as long as you like, comrade. We at least owe you this." He added kindly after a small pause.
• The Soothing Aura
  The soothing aura Ceylan so casually cast on them all was not something to take lightly. Regardless of leftover injury, the tensed and aching muscles from a day's travel and consequent battle was washed away into nothingness, as they were all suddenly re-invigorated and filled with energy. It felt as if they had just woken up from the best night's sleep and was ready to fight a hundred more battles or tread a thousand more miles.
  
  That was not all, however. As Taji began blinking his golden eyes erratically, the fragmented cracks laced over them healing back up with a golden sheen. Words could not describe the astonishment on his face as he stared blankly, rapidly whipping his head round to face Lirek after coming to a realization. Tears welled up in his eyes for a brief moment as he examined the slightly wrinkly anuran, before wiping them away with an indescribable smile. "You've grown old."
  
  "Tch, that's the first thing you say?" Lirek smiled back, before lowering his eyes quietly. "Your voice is much deeper than it used to be."
  
  They mutually smiled at each other for a bit, before turning back to Ceylan. Taji gave a practiced bow, with Lirek slightly mimicking him, as he spoke.
  
  "...A cloaked figure once held their hand out and covered my eyes, chanting some strange words, and before I knew it my eyes were bleeding like tears. Since then, nothing before my eyes has ever appeared perfectly clear. So, thank you High Priest Ceylan, for curing something that I thought would stay with me forever." Taji thanked solemnly, with Lirek nodding along.
  
  "They told him to not see what shouldn't be seen, and for me to not hear what shouldn't be heard. But it looks like... we'll really be able to get that new beginning we wished for, thanks to you. I don't know how us simple folk could ever repay you, even with just you saving the little fairy's life." Lirek smiled, in genuine disbelief at how many kind folk they had met to help them along on this journey. Fate had truly blessed them, and it was almost impossible to believe this wasn't all just a delusional dream in those dreary punishment cells.
  
  Taji's [Damaged Eyes] have been cured.
  Lirek's [Damaged Ears] have been cured.
• Ceylan's Summons
  Just a reminder that the armoured beast chooses to speak through telepathy only to Ceylan, though both beasts understand Common.
  
  The armoured beast stared silently at Ceylan after his onslaught of inquiries. After a moment of silence, it decided to address his last and simplest question first and foremost. Turning to the snake coiled peacefully around its neck, they conversed a little, speaking in an ethereal and melodious tongue that sounded much like the strings of a harp mixed with strange, elongated vowels.
  
  H̷̡̓ɘ̴͇̿ ̶̰͝ɒ̵͐ͅƨ̸̪͆ʞ̸̩̆ƨ̷̨̐ ̶͎͗ʇ̶͔̏o̶̹̅ɿ̷̼̽ ̵͎͌ɒ̶̝̈ ̸̛̝n̷͈̊ɒ̵̳̈m̶̝͝ɘ̸̝̒.̸̛̘
  Ḯ̵͎ ̵̢̀ʞ̵̪̄ṅ̷̥o̵̙͒w̷͒ͅ.̵͖͐ ̷̣͘Ḩ̶̀γ̶̺̚m̶̤͘n̵̫͌ ̶̥̀ẅ̸͍́i̸͈͗l̸͓̓l̷̢͑ ̵̹̽ḅ̷͠o̵̰͋ ̷͈̉ʇ̵̮̿ì̶̤n̸̢͘ɘ̸̟͆.̶͇̆
  
  Turning back to Ceylan whilst trotting along, he telepathically responded in a slightly less concealed and mysterious tone. "She can be called Hymn. And I Valhyr, if need be."
  
  After another moment of contemplation, he addressed Ceylan's other curiosities. "It is no longer our place to interfere with the land of the living." Valhyr spoke gently, as if coaxing a child. "If you are curious, perhaps the ruins of this place will lead you to answers. But again, there is no need to trouble yourself. Live your life, summoner. We are grateful to even be able to set foot here once more." He concluded gently, with Hymn bobbing her head in agreement before turning her curious attention back to Kurikara.
  
  After a moment's contemplation, she fluttered over to the giant's side, gently making her presence known by hovering in front of him, before coiling herself around his neck if he would allow. Otherwise, she would simply flutter back to Valhyr and continue to observe Kurikara from afar with a harmless curiosity.
• The Ruined Castle - Cooldowns reset
  Ceylan's magic worked wonders for their hike up the mountain slope, the revitalized group managing to complete the journey in no time at all. The stone structure that greeted them was vastly desolate, with overgrown weeds and cracks littering the architecture. Rather than a castle however, what was left seemed more like a singular tower with a couple of habitable rooms connected to it, with the rest of the castle in piles of brick and stone rubble.
  
  What greeted them before they could even enter the ruined castle though, was another thin felinefolk, this one pale-furred with gentle slitted irises. She was collecting plants by the castle's edge when she noticed them, and was consequently stunned on the spot.
  
  “Taji? Lirek?”
  
  “Nashi? You’re alive?” Taji blurted out.
  
  “Yeah, I played dead and slipped away when they chased after the others. You know I’m good with herbs and medicine.” She smiled, lifting up her well-bandaged arms, though her eyes carefully surveyed the bizarre group accompanying her previous acquaintances.
  
  “...How are the others?”
  
  “Nala is fine. She’s with her father. We had to split up to evade pursuers. Enough talk though, come in, the nighttime chill sets in earlier nowadays.” She welcomed gently, still obviously apprehensive about all the strangers but willing to trust Lirek and Taji for the present.
  
  "Ah, is that your dinner for tonight? Let me help you cook!" Her eyes sparkled at the sight of the dead boar, examining its carcass without a care. "You guys remember my cooking right?"
  
  "Of course, you cooked for everyone when you could spare the time." Taji chuckled, visibly relieved to find they weren't the only survivors, though Lirek simply remained silent with a small smile and nod.
  
  EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: LiNiTa/Summons SilverFeathers | Tyrmar AbenSur

Ceylan wasn't sure which part about him was considered down to earth, but he'd take it. He always struggled a little with the overly formal meetings he'd sometimes attended, so perhaps there was a link there. When Taji mentioned how Ceylan would not want to experience 'that life' he nodded. “I'm glad you managed to escape from it.” Titles and context clues had given away Taji's past well enough by now. As Taji defended his magic, Ceylan silently nodded. He wasn't there to put up a fight about it, so those words were enough to silence his doubts.

Much different was what the shirtless warrior told him. From being fairly hostile at first to now accusing him of making deals with devils, Ceylan wasn't sure why this man was so intend on hating him. “I can assure you that I'm in no way associated with any devils or demons. Any fortune I might have, I am given by the gods.” He said, making it clear he didn't appreciate the sudden accusation.

It almost made Ceylan wonder if it'd be safe to eat this shirtless man's food, as the man clearly had it out for him. Then again, the frog-man was vouching for Tyrmar, so perhaps he wasn't all that bad? “I'll be looking forward to it, in that case.” He said, hoping that it wouldn't end up being a mistake.

Ceylan nodded. “Ryke? Yes. I've been there often. A few friends of mine should still be in Ryke at the moment as well. Although, might I ask, for what reason do you not seek out Kuridan? Our own kind is less likely to hand you back over to the Empire than those balancing between powers, like the government of Ryke.” Even though their first destination, the castle, was a simple one for simple reasons, Ceylan couldn't object. “Of course, thank you.” He said, upon being asked to accompany them.

All things considered, Ceylan himself was thoroughly confused as to the impact of his healing. He'd forgotten to account for the fact that slaves likely weren't ever giving access to it. It was tough not to get emotional upon seeing Taji tear up a bit and upon hearing the words shared between him and Lirek. “Your gratitude is more than enough payment for me. Being able to be a force of good in the world is its own reward, being acknowledged by those you aid is a gift more than enough to compensate for merely making use of the gifts I've been granted.” From the bottom of his heart, he meant that. Their reaction alone made even the kidnapping and near-death experience with the monsters worth experiencing, as that's what led him on a path upon which he could heal these two and the fairy.

That brought him to his summons. He was quick to realise he should learn some new languages. Mostly whatever it was that his summons spoke. From his religious knowledge, he thought he could make up some words. It sounded like they debated what names to give him? It was confirmed by their response. Not 'she is called' but 'she can be called', suggesting these were nicknames. Perhaps their real names held some sort of power or were secret? Either way, Ceylan was not one to question their intent. “Thank you, Hymn. Valhyr.” He acknowledged them both by name.

He was surprised by their reaction to his request. Should he pry a bit more? He didn't want to necessarily know more, but he did feel like he owed them something and was eager to repay it. He decided to go the middle route. “Very well. Although, please know that my offer still stands. It's my own desire to aid those that aided me.”

As they made it up to the castle, Ceylan couldn't help admire its beauty for a while. Sure, it was broken, abandoned and desolate, but the way nature was reclaiming this place and its architecture had its own charms to it. That was ruined when there was yet another cat in it. GRRRR. Ceylan was surprised to find out they weren't the only ones here, but politely stayed to the background when he noticed they were unacquainted with the other two in their group.

Then again, Ceylan did spot her well-bandaged arms. As the other settled in, he awaited his moment, before approach her. “Please, ma'am, would you allow me to take a look at your arms?” He asked, offering a [Healing Prayer] to heal them if she'd let him. After all, for as well-bandaged as they were, not needing bandages to begin with was always a better option. “I'm Ceylan, by the way. High Priest of the Syncretist Church.” He introduced himself, already having caught her name from Taji and Lirek. That said, he did let curiosity get the better of him, as he couldn't stop himself from using [Divine Appraisal] upon her, wondering if she'd been through the same as Lirek and Taji or if they knew each-other through other venues.

Healing Prayer – Healing B, Religion C – Character asks the gods for their aid when healing someone. - Grade B – 4 Post Cooldown.
Divine Appraisal – Magic Affinity E Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Appraisal E, Religion E– Character uses their [god]-given appraisal ability. – Grade E – 1 Post Cooldown.

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
Mentions: Elvario AbenSur SilverFeathers​

The armor warrior Kurikara scrutinized Ceylan. Despite his many capabilities, social acumen was not one of them. He would not be the type to pick up on lies or deception easily, though fortunately the Priest was not the type to do so. Kurikara gave little responses besides the occasional inclination of the head as he listened. The Syncretist Church... Kurikara had not heard of it. So he believed it to be a relatively new faith, though new within a one thousand year margin was still quite old by mortal standards. Their doctrine though, or at least their purpose as the apparent High Priest claimed it was...

'Inadequate, and woefully naive.' The desire to "do good" was not a bad one truly. Yet it was affixed with all the hinderances of mortals. In their effort to do good they merely treated symptoms, they did not root out the disease. Their lives were short and any "good" they could do would be too little or wiped away in a mere generation. Such thoughts came to Kurikaras mind as he listened to the priest. Despite his own erring's, this too was proof of his necessity. The shadow cast by evil would not be driven away by men like Ceylan. They couldn't possibly be. As they continued their trek with the priest in tow, Kurikara listened. He could not imagine the Beastkin to have the mettle nor power to do what was necessary. Despite his wishes he was held back by the conventions of men, Kurikara was not. He came to this conclusion on his own with only the voice as company silent as it was. It was not the first time something similar had happened but just as before it renewed his resolve.

They walked, the various members of the group discussing amongst each other. Introductions and stories shared. It was what Kurikara expected from their kind but he would not begrudge them it, after the treacherousness of the battle and long journey. Interaction would strengthen morale and allow them to continue to their objective. Though Kurikara would be taking no part in it. The High Priest's beasts were not ones he knew but they seemed strong and would no doubt do their part to stay on the alert. With his unique sensory network Kurikara performed the role of scout and guard at the same time. He noticed however how the Winged Serpet of Ceylan's was staring at him. Such a creature taking interest in him was bothersome, and he couldn't help but consider if he had to fight the serpent. As if to force him to a decision the Winged Serpent flew over to Kurikara. It curiously stared at him, its face reflected in his face plate. He stared back but made no move threatening or otherwise. Kurikara started somewhat as it then coiled around his neck. His first instinct was that the creature was foolishly trying to choke him, and his clawed gauntlet shot up to pry the thing off. But just as he was about to grip its scaled body he stopped. He seemed to deliberate for a moment before lowering his gauntlet with a begrudging grunt.

Eventually they would leave the marshlands behind, and as the sun dipped below the horizon they found themselves at the ruins of an old castle. Seeking shelter within it for the night they moved inside. Before they could however they were met with another Beastkin. A female feline. Kurikara tensed as she stared at them but recognition from his charges stayed his hand. It seemed she too had been a slave. As they reunited Kurikara turned his attention. Looking to the priest he approached Ceylan once more. Making for a somewhat bizarre sight with the Serpent curled around the neck of the large armored figure. "Your healing. It is a rare ability at such potency. Not unlike a Saint... continue to do 'good' with that power." Kurikara spoke rather intensely, being just as illusive as usual. He turned back to Taji calling to him. "Save the babble for inside, night draws near. The Fae's condition should be propelry assessed while we rest..." With a moment of deliberation Kurikara adds, "...and Tyrmar has a meal to cook."

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

“Hah! Life is short so I’ll take all the praise I can get and more while I can Lirek!” As they continued on he smiled as he saw Kurikara interacting with the flying snake with absolutely no jealousy at all, any contact he was willing to allow seemed like an improvement over his usual dour disposition so he’d let it go this once.

Then he and all of his other companions had a wave of invigorating energy pass over them for the second time, something Tyrmar had never felt before today and quite a novel experience if he said so himself. It had little affect on him as his natural abilities had returned him to full health but it certainly helped get that subtle ache out of his frame.

Turning to see his beast folk companion he saw the overt changes the spell had for them and heard their explanations he did hesitate before bowing his head to the priest.

“Thank you for doing your work on my friends ailments, I don’t know what it’s like to have impaired senses but I do know what it’s like to be marked by someone who thinks they know better, you have my thanks Priest Ceylan.” And without missing a step he resumed their trek to the castle building.

Finally arriving at the entrance it seemed Taji and Lirek were met with a familiar figure, a fellow catkin and slave. Well you know the saying, The More the Merrier, he felt it could count amongst cooks as well as friends.

“I’d gladly accept some help preparing the meal, I also have plenty of dried preserves to help vary things up” he patted the satchel that laid over his shoulder holding the entirety of his possessions, 95% of which were cooking implements “I’ll be sure to make it especially good for the special occasion, it’s nothing less when you’re able to gather once again with the friends you thought you might not see once more.” Putting his scarred physique on display without shake Tyrmar grabbed the entire hog with one arm before lifting it over his shoulder to carry further into the shelter. As soon as he found the proper place to cook he’d put his [Familiar Feast] to the test, beginning prep on a hearty home cooked meal that’d hopefully bring forth a sense of nostalgia and comfort, and with a potent aroma to satisfy Kurikara and wake Ninelle with hunger!

No corners would be cut in making full use of the beast and his ingredients, he only hoped ot all turned out as he imagined.

Spoiler: An Evening Meal

Spoiler: An Evening Meal

Abilities:

Familiar Feast - [Domestic Arts] E, [Empathy] E - By sensing the emotions and feelings of those around him at any given time Tyrmar can prepare meals that will trigger or help accompany their mood - E Grade - 1 Post Cooldown.

SilverFeathers EMIYAman Elvario

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji
• Nashi
• Ninelle
• Valhyr
• Hymn

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

  
  ​

​

Location: Eastern Empire, somewhere in the west, ???(marshland/plains), ???(ruined castle)
Time: Late evening (1 week after the events of part 1)
Weather: Cold, very windy, cloudy, not foggy

• Replies&Castle Interior
• Ninelle
• Dinner&Hymn

• "You make a good point comrade. But, Taji has a family to return to in Ryke." Lirek smiled gently in response to Ceylan, not elaborating any further though he seemed a little saddened by the thoughts that arose from his question. Realizing he had been silent for a bit too long, he spoke up again with a small chuckle. "Sorry, I just can't help but wonder where mine is."
  
  ---
  Nashi seemed apprehensive at Ceylan's approach, her eyes quickly darting to Taji and Lirek for their opinion on the matter. Seeing them nod their head, she nodded back slightly and stretched out her arms, letting the priest use his spell. Her eyes clearly widened as Ceylan worked his magic, carefully unwrapping her bandages to find her fur and flesh spotless. She was overall less outwardly shocked than Taji and Lirek had been, but that didn't stop her from bowing and giving her heartfelt gratitude with somewhat dazed words. "T-Thank you, High Priest Ceylan."
  
  Ceylan's [Divine Appraisal] results (Appraisal E, Religion E):
  
  • Nashi (???)
  Other than picking up that there seemed to be no touch of the divine on the felinefolk's body, Ceylan would not be able to gather any other information through his appraisal.
  
  ---
  "Sounds great! I still have some ground herbs left in my pouch, this is perfect." Nashi smiled brightly at Tyrmar, originally a little frightened by his enthusiasm and all the strangers, but quickly getting caught up in all the excitement. Leading them all inside, she helped clear out a generous area for cooking with good ventilation and got to work, helping prepare the ingredients with practiced hands and quick fingers, at an efficiency rate no less than Tyrmar's.
  
  The interior of the castle was nothing special, but it felt somewhat novel for the group that had strayed from civilization and slept in the wilderness for many days. The ground floor held two mostly habitable rooms, one was windowless with a couple small cracks and holes in the wall that you could use to peep at the outside. The second room was more battered, with a large hole high up on the wall and the large boulder that caused it sitting in a corner of the room. Since it was more ventilated, Nashi was cooking with Tyrmar here.
  
  Both rooms were connected to a tall tower with a spiral staircase. If explored, there was one more traversable room on the floor above, that seemed to have once resembled a study or an office. Most books, items or furniture had long been robbed though, with nothing but empty bookshelves and a barren desk. The higher floors or other rooms are blocked off by a lack of steps leading higher in the tower, or blocked entrances and corridors by rubble.
• "Good evening everyone." As the group entered the building and began settling down for the night, Ninelle finally felt the urge to make her presence known, her hunger pangs likely playing a part in it. The fact that the rough winds wouldn't be able to knock her down anymore was also likely a big part of the reason.
  
  Peeking her head out of the hammock, her eyes slowly glazed over the navy armoured beast, Lirek and Taji, Tyrmar and the foreign felinefolk, and the comical sight of Kurikara with a winged snake coiled around his neck, before finally settling on the last individual. "High Priest Ceylan... was it?" She queried carefully, stretching her wings and allowing the familiar whirring of her mechanics to fill her ears as she tried to approach him.
  
  Almost immediately however, a sense of instinctive fear seemed to paralyze her. The familiar feeling of being struck down mid-air and falling to her pain-filled doom overcame her senses, as she hurriedly returned to her hammock and wrapped the fabric around her hands for dear life. Taking a deep breath, she mocked herself as she realized the number of things that she feared had grown. Explosions was one thing, but flying? Surely this was not a fear that she could keep, she loved flying, it was her whole life. She could only pray that the kind priest would cast his calming and miraculous magic once more, as she tried her best to ease the erratic trembling of her shoulder blades and wings.
  
  Smiling gently at the thought of the priest, letting more happy thoughts take precedence in her mind, she spoke up once more. "Thank you dearly for saving my life, and revolutionizing the lives of those here." She thanked most earnestly, lowering her mask for a moment to show her sincerity. "I'm sure you must have heard enough thanks by now, but I mean it truly. I'm nothing but a nature fairy that has lost her home, but if there is anything I can do for you please let me know kind saviour." She bowed with what she hoped was a deeper show of gratitude, before turning to Taji and Lirek.
  
  "Thank you, you two as well. I'm sure I must have scared you both back then." She couldn't quite remember everything that occurred before she fainted, but if anything, she could vividly recall the distraught shock and fear on their faces just before her collapse. Quickly glancing over Kurikara and Tyrmar as well, she was relieved to see with her own eyes that everyone had been healed back to full health.
  
  "Taji, could you put me down? I think I'm having some trouble flying and need some space to practice." She requested gently, to which Taji simply nodded and put her down. Stretching her limbs cautiously, she spent the time before food was ready wandering around the stone floor whilst occasionally fluttering her wings, hovering at distances safe to fall from. It still felt somewhat strange and unreal that the gaping hole in her chest was no more, almost as if it was all just a hallucination, but Ninelle was sure with time her mind would re-adjust.
• In no time at all, dinner was ready, with Nashi adding the finishing touches with her private store of spices. Helping prep and serve everything up with a warm smile, she personally served plates to Ceylan, Kurikara and Ninelle(The latter getting a leaf platter of finely sliced tiny meat pieces of course), and let Tyrmar serve her old friends, somewhat as a sign of friendship and mutual trust. "Eat up everyone! To our survival and escape!" She cheered proudly, before grabbing a portion for herself and digging in.
  
  As mealtime was underway however, Kurikara would notice specks of gold dust float up from around his neck. Hymn's body, peacefully and lazily coiled around Kurikara's neck, was beginning to fade. Glancing down at herself with a calm gaze, then at Valhyr and Ceylan with a smile, she finally rested her wise eyes on Kurikara.
  
  "The world can be cruel to those that are different. Don't let your core shatter, little construct."
  
  She left him with that one telepathic message, gently placing her forehead against his as she faded away.
  
  EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: LiNiTa/Summons SilverFeathers | Tyrmar AbenSur | Kurikara EMIYAman

Ceylan was a bit confused when the silent, armour-clad warrior approached him again. He wasn't sure if the constructs words were a compliment, an instruction or a commandment. Either way, he replied them with a smile. “Thank you, I will.” The words were oddly intense for such a reply, but Ceylan wasn't sure what else to say. Even his tail wasn't sure if it should wag for getting a compliment or hold still to respect the intense way in which it'd been said. He merely respond to Tyrmar's words of thanks with a nod. After all, he was only doing what he deemed normal, so the gratitude started to get a little overwhelming. At least he wasn't accused of making pacts with demons for it this time around.

The priest eyed the frog, listening to his reply. It was a pretty good reason, but he could feel the sadness behind the frog's comment even without explicitly using his empathy. “I can ask the rest of my church about it, if you want to.” He said. “We're fairly well-connected, so if they aren't in the East-Empire, there's a fair chance we can help you find them.” He didn't want to give false hope, but he was genuinely confident that his church's network could aid in locating Lirek's family.

To his surprise, he couldn't read anything about Nashi. Was she stronger than he thought she was? She didn't look all that much, but if his divine senses didn't show him anything, she was most definitely unordinary. He didn't think too much of her lack of shock, mostly as he wasn't as sudden with the healing this time around. “Just Ceylan suffices.” He said, feeling no need to be addressed by his full title whatsoever and only using it to quickly explain who and what he was. Still even though she was a cat his curiosity was certainly garnered. She was strong and she could expertly bandage herself. Perhaps she'd been a warrior of sorts? He didn't dare ask about it.

Instead, he decided to look around the castle a bit more. Sadly enough, there were no books left. He'd been very interest in reading some old and mostly forgotten knowledge. It did make him wonder if there could be anything left on the higher floors. Then again, he wasn't able to climb and he knew the rest was probably far more interesting in eating and sleeping, so he decided to let it rest. Besides, to his surprise and and joy, the fairy had awoken and seemed to be doing okay. His healing hadn't failed him!

“Yes, but just Ceylan will do. I'm glad you're awake.” He said, although his initial relief was filled with worry when he saw she couldn't really walk yet. “Are you alright? I'm sorry, I tried to heal you as best as I could, but I'm not familiar with healing... ehm...” He wasn't sure what to call it. “metal body parts.” Real subtle of him. Then again, it was touch not to have noticed them when the fairy had been held out at a near-death stage and he feared it might've lessened the effectiveness of his healing.

He was a bit surprised when she suddenly turned from that into earnestly thanking him. “You're welcome. I'm glad I was able to be of help.” At first, when she said that she wished to aid him, he wanted to reply with 'no need' as per usual. However, there was something she might help him with. She was a Fae, right? At least in part. His bitter lack of understanding their species was still fresh on his mind, he could almost feel his legs being maimed again when thinking back on it. “Truth be told, I'm hoping to better understand your kind, the Fae, but that can wait. For now, let's eat and rest.”

Now, Ceylan was a dog of very few talents. He could talk religion and he could heal. That was... mostly it. It's why his meals were, in the best way to describe them, very sober. Neither cooking nor hunting nor fishing or bartering for ingredients were among his talents. It's why he couldn't help get a bit excited when he started to see and smell what was going to be prepared. It's why the Familiar Feast hit hard, as it instantly reminded him of the very few times he'd even had a meal that could be described as a 'feast'. Especially from when he finally obtained his priesthood and some of his fellow students and orphans had insisted on throwing him a party. They hadn't been able to pay for any classy meat, but a local hunter had sold them a hog for cheap. That might've been the first time he'd been given a decent chunk of meat in his life. Smelling hog again, prepared in such an oddly similar manner, even brought a few tears to his face. His tail would reveal those were of joy, however, as the thing was going wild enough to cause a bit of a draft.

Ceylan felt a bit mixed when he saw the first of his two summons vanish. He barely knew anything about her and hadn't been able to do anything for her in return for her aid. Still, she said that having been able to be here again had been a reward, right? He did wonder why she'd been drawn to Kurikara so much. He wish he'd been able to persuade his summons to tell him more, but at the same time, he wished to respect their privacy. With a final, “Thank you.” he bid her farewell. He didn't expect them to meet again anytime soon, if at all.

 

[AbenSur]

Tyrmar​

As Tyrmar went forward with serving Lirek and Taji he happily saw Ninelle rise from her slumber and begin her own tiny meal. Cheering alongside Nashi he began to dig into his meal alongside all the others, taking a moment to look once more across the faces of his weeklong companions he felt a sense of contentment bloom in his chest at friends well met and time well spent.

Speaking of, seeing the divine snake dissolve into its golden notes Tyrmar jauntily had his arm take up the position resting on the constructs large shoulders if allowed in a show of camaraderie “Kurikara my friend I find that I was never able to reciprocate your praise upon the battlefield, it was an honor to have you by my side, your sword work was truly sublime” though he voice began with a more playful tilt the rest of his praise was as heartfelt as could be “and the same to all the rest of you, to raise your hands in defense of your comrades is always an activity that brings people together and no matter when our paths leave each other I will always have considered you all true friends.” Letting a solemn silence rest after his words he then speedily whipped his head towards Kurikara once more.

“So where did you learn that style of yours? You seemed to be holding back on me if you had moves like those in your back pocket.”

SilverFeathers Elvario EMIYAman

 

[SilverFeathers]

• Plains
• Lirek
• Taji
• Nashi
• Ninelle
• Valhyr

• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  
• 
  
  

Location: Eastern Empire, somewhere in the west, ???(marshland/plains), ???(ruined castle)
Time: Late evening (1 week after the events of part 1)
Weather: Cold, very windy, cloudy, not foggy

• Replies
• Dinner
• Dinner?

• Ceylan's offer of aid was a genuine surprise, but after a pause, Lirek merely shook his head. "It's fine. They're a reclusive, travelling sort that stay in the wilderness. Even with your network, I doubt you'd be able to find them. Thank you though." He smiled at him, thinking those religious folk weren't all bad afterall.
  
  ---
  
  The sting of the phrase 'metal body parts' was visible to the naked eye. Ninelle stiffened and lowered herself to the ground from her little hover, before smiling to herself and taking flight once more. "It's alright. I'm perfectly fine. It will just take me a bit to get over the incident." She turned and smiled at the priest, knowing full well it was no fault of his own. The mental repercussions of coming so close to death so many times was just taking its usual toll on her. The first time, she was reborn in a new world, and it took many months for her mindset to fully adjust. The second time, she awoke half-metal, and its still only been a few months since that tragedy. This was the third time, and she honestly felt like she should be long dead.
  
  Shaking those numb and unbelievable thoughts away, she listened to the priest's words whilst continuing to temper her sudden new fear of flight through brute therapy. "Alright. If you have any questions on my kind, I'll do my best to answer to the best of my ability. I'll let you know though, I grew up in a fairy village and didn't set foot outside until recently, so the information I can give may be lacking." She smiled a little sheepishly, finding it somewhat unbearable that the first request the kind priest made, was one she had little confidence in fulfilling. "Most fae I know love nature though. And if you have queries on that side of things I should be at least a little useful." She brightened for only a moment, before recalling the fog in her memories and how even her current knowledge of nature was lacking. How frustrating.
  
  At the mention of food however, all such thoughts were vaguely washed away, the feast being all too welcoming to the group that had their meal delayed due to the chaotic battle earlier.
• The meal was delicious and inviting, and accompanied by the comforting sound of friendly chatter, there was perhaps no greater joy after a hard fought battle.
  
  "I agree. Though I wasn't awake for most of it, we all fought together and nothing can change that." Ninelle chimed in with Tyrmar's words, as Taji and Lirek nodded along also.
  
  "We trusted each other with our backs. I now understand what they meant about the deep comradery between soldiers on the battlefield." Lirek smiled somewhat wistfully, perhaps thinking of friends long gone as he picking up another meaty leg.
  
  "Well, of course. We would've long been dead if we didn't meet you three a week ago." Taji mentioned casually, still subconsciously watching over Lirek though he didn't really need to anymore.
  
  "I'm happy things are going so well for all of us. I couldn't even dream of escaping in the past..." Nashi piped up, lost in her thoughts as she nibbled on a bit of everything.
  
  "Yeah, you'd always advise us against it. Look at us now." Taji smiled comfortingly, chuckling with his fellow felinefolk after in a rare show of relaxation.
• The dinner continued peacefully, full of liveliness and cheer.
  
  But with time however, things began to change. Less hands reached out for more food and less voices filled the air, as a feeling of stifling lethargy slowly began to overcome all those that had partaken in the meal. Apart from the obvious exceptions of Kurikara and Valhyr, only one was left unaffected.
  
  "...Nashi." Lirek's voice rung out lowly, breaking the sudden silence. Rather than a term of address, it sounded more like a warning.
  
  The felinefolk in question kept her head lowered, a gentle smile plastered on her face, even as she casually reached to the side and stole Lirek's Curved Dagger D. Without a word, her paw waved, and Lirek's head was abruptly left rolling on the floor, a trail of blood leading back to his fallen body.
  
  "I'm sorry it had to be this way."
  
  Suddenly, a shadow rushed out, and a gash was left on Nashi's cheek, deep and unrelenting. Without a word, she grabbed her assailant after his futile last attempt and stabbed him in the stomach. "Taji, my dear, I told you escaping was a bad idea." She smiled softly at her fellow felinefolk, who was unable to resist nor fight back any longer due to the drug's effects.
  
  "You fucking bitch..." His first words of profanity were spat out with difficulty, his tears rolling down his cheeks uncontrollably.
  
  Nashi merely smiled before turning and narrowing her eyes at Ceylan.
  
  "That just leaves the unexpected element, the healer." She announced softly, though her eyes wandered carefully towards the pair that didn't eat.
  
  Kicking Taji at Kurikara, she dashed towards Ceylan across the hall with an unnatural speed.
  
  Combat has begun once more. Three actions max per post.
  
  Ceylan and Tyrmar are incapacitated this round, and are unable to move/attack/cast spells. They can however speak, with some difficulty(e.g. Ceylan can give orders to Valhyr). More actions will become available as rounds pass, particularly for Tyrmar & Ninelle, and the reason for this will be clarified later.
  
  EMIYAman AbenSur Elvario

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Valhyr/Nashi SilverFeathers

It'd been a nice and peaceful meal thus far. He wasn't able to really offer Lirek much more aid and it didn't look like Ninelle was going to be able to help him a whole lot, but those issues could wait. For now, it was nice to just eat and relax and finally feel a bit less on edge about things. Every now and again, his mind wandered to what he should ask the tiny Fae, but he often doubted she'd know the answers. In the end, he kept silent, for now, just enjoying the meal.

He started feeling sleepy as time went on. Perhaps his body was finally able to relax, after having been maimed, kidnapped by a fox, kidnapped by bandits, threatened by monsters and then eyed with suspicion by the ones he'd been healing. All things considered, he'd not been granted a whole lot of time to feel fully comfortable. This might be the... worst thus far. Had he been wrong to not be more concerned when he'd not been able to read anything about her? He could only watch in shock and horror as the cat decapitated Lirek.

She went after him next. “Stop her!” He asked of Valhyr, although the words were difficult to pronounce. Oddly enough though, he didn't feel anger at her. Just a deep sadness. Had she been so heavily enslaved that she no longer even longed for freedom and would hunt her own friends on command? Had she been threatened to do this? Were they keeping her loved ones hostage? Had she been corrupted by desires? Whatever it was, he didn't doubt that it was tragic. It's why he had to try. “You're making a mistake, but you can still stop this. We can fix this. Whatever made you do this, we can solve it. Let us help you.” He tried using [Empathy D] and even relied on his [Lucky F 1/2] to try to get through to her. A burning desire to avoid this tragedy was the only thing that got him to force his body to speak these words.

With some luck, he might be able to resurrect Lirek. This didn't have to be this way. He didn't want it to be this way. Hadn't the gods given him enough trials to go through? He'd finally gotten rid of his maimed legs, yet was he still cursed by the gods? Was that why he'd fallen into the hands of bandits, monsters and now this brainwashed feline? He tried speaking more, but his jaws and tongue felt too heavy to more much more then they'd already moved. His magic didn't work either. Why the hell did things have to go like this? He should've questioned her more when his divine senses didn't pick up on a lot. Or how she'd gotten those bandages, come to think of it. If her hands and arms had been wounded, how'd she been able to bandage herself like that? There might be others around. To make matters worse, he was the only unexpected element here. Had this all been planned out already? Just how cruel could this faith get? Stuck between desperation, fear and regret, he desperately hoped his words would reach her. It's all he could do right now.