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Graded [Lodeli Woods] The Plaguebearer of Lodeli

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Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

“Magic.” He replied. How else would he know anything in these conditions? It was a bit of an odd question. This wasn't exactly the time to discuss his appraisal magic more thoroughly either.

He spotted the eye-like lights. Those seemed like trouble.

Perhaps he'd be scared of running into the creature behind him, if he hadn't already expected this type of thing. Sadly enough, he was rather limited in his options. If he chose to defend and counter-attack, he'd not be able to keep moving, as he didn't have the ability to [Focus] well enough. If he kept moving, he'd only be able to use a weak magic on the go in an attempt to defend. He clicked his tongue, having only a split second to decide.

Counter-attack it was. “Watch out!” He warned Ninelle to get out of the way. He didn't like the idea of being shot in the back, so, he cast Ethereal Blight D at the enemy's laser-beams, 2 bolts at the one aiming at Ninelle, 3 bolts at the one aiming at him. He didn't wish to risk loosing Ninelle right now, as... well, she was his biggest source of light. Yes, that was probably why he felt like that. He could still cast a second, lesser spell, but he wasn't sure how much use that would be, so he decided to save his energy.

E – 0/1
D – 0/2
Ethereal Blight D – Magic D, Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Ethereal [Blight] Affinity, Focus F – Character uses [Ethereal] Blight magic against up to 5 targets within 30 ft. Blight adds 1 damage if effective. Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.

Action 1: [Counter-attack] – Ethereal Blight D
Action 2/3: None
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?
Time: Evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

mDEMdj7.png

(Click image to zoom)
Character Sheet
Elvario Elvario​
  • Ninelle could not spare any time to ponder the scholar's blunt response before the lasers cracked and pierced towards them. With his warning, the fairy instinctively dived out of the way, using her [Tiny] size to her advantage as her fellow fae cast his magic. Colourful, iridescent orbs materialized from thin air, streaking across the ice cavern like rockets to meet with the lasers head on.

    Hovering off to the side, Ninelle quickly followed suit. Carefully clutching her wailing ire bracer as it glowed, she unleashed a torrent of misshapen vines from the snow-covered earth to assist the trailing rainbow bolts.

    Considering she had long noticed his mana medium, that gold chained pendant that hung around his neck, it was no surprise that the scholar was a mage. But, what she did not expect, was that he could wield such powerful magic that could rival her own. How to say it... with his silly stoicism and one-track mindedness... she just didn't expect him to be? In her head, he seemed like the sort to pursue his research fixedly with no digressions.

    But, it made her happy to know that he could protect himself just fine.
    • Flutterby F
      • Flight F, Energized F
      • Dance and weave through the air, using aerial techniques to quickly aid her in avoiding or minimizing injury.
    • Vine Spray E
      • Flexible Affinity F, Nature Affinity F, Metal Affinity F, Magic E, Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Energized E, Focus E
      • Summon a shotgun-like spray of vines or metal tendrils that violently charge towards specified targets, with the potential to disarm, wind or trip up their victims. (30ft away)
    Action 1: Use [Tiny] size & Flutterby F to move out of the way of Deliverance's magic
    Action 2: Cast Vine Spray E towards the two blue sentries
    Action 3: None

    Combat Round 4:
    Sentries vs Deliverance/Ninelle
    Sentries' Attack: 10
    ???
    Deliverance's/Ninelle's Defence: 11
    4 (Int C) + 3 (Catalyst D) + 3 ([Ethereal Blight] D) + 1 (Ninelle's assistive vines)
    Since Blight effectiveness wins, +1 to damage.
    Damage to Sentries: 2
    Sentries' Armour: ? -> ?
    Cosmic energy clashed with the frigid ice beams mid-air, casting outward colourful mana shockwaves beside both fae where the energies collided. Barely a moment later, strange white vines, some oddly painted with patches of metal, joined the colourful orbs of energy in piercing the frigid beams' center, barrelling through all the way until the sentries themselves were struck at.

    At the same time, the residual shockwaves left behind had their effects, if minor, on the fae pair. The elf was forced to take a few steps back due to the force, with his cloak and hair sent fluttering in the colourful kaleidoscope. The fairy meanwhile, with her minute stature, was sent spiralling further outwards before she could manage to regain her air control.

    Both, however, would feel the after effects of their actions. The sense of lethargy and nausea that washed over them was both sudden and mentally draining. For Deliverance, he would find that it was a very similar experience to when he had appraised the sentries, except slightly but surely, worse.

    As the only visible sentry faded out of sight, the pair of fae could briefly notice its armoured head vividly cracked and crumbling. Though it looked more visually frightening than before, it remained motionless for now, staring at the closest fae just as emotionlessly as previous despite having lost the blue glow it once held. However, with the distant hum further ahead of the pair quickly ascending and accelerating all too familiarly, the pair had little time to relax before another pair of laser beams were acutely fired toward them. This time, coloured an eerie neon green.
 
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Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He watched as the Fairy added some magic of her own. Far less ethereal, but somewhat peculiar. It was a bit too dark to see, but he could swear he saw the glint of metal within it. He clicked his tongue when he felt the results. “It seems that this place is draining our mana after each time we use it.” He concluded, although it didn't need a lot of reasoning or research to reach such a conclusion.

It meant he'd have to use his abilities sparingly, but he was not exactly in a position to do so. Come to think of it, green beams normally meant healing, right? Hmm.... probably not worth the risk. Then again, he couldn't keep up casting strong magic if it was being drained. He couldn't even do so easily under normal circumstances. “I'll back you up!” He called out, hoping the Fairy would have something to counter-cast with that he could strengthen with [Action 1: Ethereal Blight E]. He'd split off two orbs for each of the beams and decided to shoot 3 of them spread out a bit towards the general area of where he last saw the previously visible sentry fade. With some luck, one of the orbs might hit it.

[Ethereal Blight] E – Magic E, Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Ethereal [Blight] Affinity, Focus F – Character uses [Ethereal] Blight magic against up to 5 targets within 30 ft. Blight adds 1 damage if effective. - Grade E – 1 Post Cooldown.

Although he wanted to be on the move again, he lacked the [Focus] to do so, so he'd have to plan ahead. “Can you check for water in the direction of the light?” He asked Ninelle. If he knew where he could run towards, he could attempt to take a full sprint during his next turn instead of casting and being forced to remain stationary as a result.
 
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Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?
Time: Evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

f90tgnC.png

(Click image to zoom)
Character Sheet
Elvario Elvario​
  • Everything was happening so fast. All Ninelle could view was a colourful mist of mana as their attacks collided, before she was sent spiralling into the distance from the shockwaves. Additionally, with her mana fluctuating as it was being siphoned out of her whilst she spun around mid-air, the fairy genuinely felt as if she was going to be sick. Deliverance's factual statement helped her realize what had happened to her, but unfortunately, it didn't make her feel any better.

    Still, this was no time for self-pity. Even if she threw up afterwards, she had to cast another spell before they both met their doom here. All Ninelle knew was that they needed to get out of this open area fast, and find cover. Clutching her bracer with creased brows, her mana rushed forth and summoned another wave of vines, these much more numerous, far-reaching and resilient than previous. They coursed through the air, relentlessly following the paths of her fellow fae's bolts.
    • Vine Spray D
      • Flexible Affinity F, Nature Affinity F, Metal Affinity F, Magic D, Magic Range E, Magic Targets F, Energized D
      • Summon a shotgun-like spray of vines or metal tendrils that violently charge towards specified targets, with the potential to disarm, wind or trip up their victims. (100ft away)
    "I-I can't cast this and move. Maybe you could throw one of your glow stones over?" Ninelle reasoned, unable to think much further in the current situation. Whether her fellow fae would take the time to throw the stones, or just pray and charge into the darkness, she had no opinion, because she wasn't sure how much longer they could withstand these consecutive attacks.

    Action 1: Cast Vine Spray D towards the two green sentries and around where the blue sentry was last visible
    Action 2/3: None

    Combat Round 5:
    Green Sentries vs Deliverance/Ninelle
    Sentries' Attack: 13
    ???
    Ninelle's/Deliverance's Defence: 11
    4 (Int C) + 3 (Catalyst D) + + 3 ([Vine Spray] D) + 1 (Deliverance's [Ethereal Blight])
    Damage to Ninelle/Deliverance: 2
    Ninelle's Catalyst (Bracer): 3 -> 1 (D -> F)
    Deliverance's Catalyst (Pendant): 3 -> 1 (D -> F)
    Vines, lasers & cosmic energy clashed once more mid-air, creating another shockwave of green and rainbow hued colours that pushed the pair of fae back a little. But this time, what won and shot through the clouds of snow and energy, were thinned neon lasers. Piercing straight towards the lifted catalysts used for the spells, Ninelle's bracer cracked on impact, the soul-trapped fae inside howling in agony. The gem on Deliverance's locket partially shattered, with emerald shards fluttering towards the snow-covered earth.
    Blue Sentry 1 vs Ninelle/Deliverance
    Ninelle's/Deliverance's Attack: 11
    4 (Int C) + 3 (Catalyst D) + 3 ([Vine Spray] D) + 1 (Deliverance's [Ethereal Blight])
    Since Blight effectiveness wins, +1 to damage.
    Sentry's Defence: 7
    ???
    Damage to Sentries: 5
    Sentry's Armour: 2 -> 0 (E -> Broken)
    Sentry's HP: ? -> ? (Sentry not visible)
    Despite lurking in the darkness, the combined forces of Ninelle and Deliverance struck true, as the sentry they had aimed at clearly hadn't moved from its position. Although they were unable to see what had happened, the sound of stone tearing and crumbling was loudly audible from its direction, followed by an eerily quiet wail.

    And again, the all-too-familiar mana drain would course through their bodies, bringing with it a disorientating wave of nausea and lethargy. It was an exhausting feeling that the fae could no longer ignore, especially in such quick succession. If another mana drain were to be endured at this time... it would be difficult to discern what adverse effects it may have.

    In the meanwhile, a hum once again filled the air, back from the direction they came from. It was accompanied by a familiar, eerie blue glow, one that spelled danger if not properly dealt with.
 
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Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He clicked his tongue. He wasn't sure how much aid his glowing stones would be, as they gave off far less light than Ninelle herself did. To make matter worse, his catalyst cracked and crumbled. That wasn't good. As it look like another shot was inbound, he wasn't given much of a choice.

First, he'd [Action 1 – Move] move one pace to the north-east (diagonal) and then two north. Then [Action 2] he'd throw one of the glowing rocks ahead of him to see if the way towards the light was clear. Finally, [Action 3] he'd head towards the light in the most direct non-swimming manner revealed to him.

Moving wasn't all that great. Being on ice didn't help. Being drained from mana didn't help. Being cold didn't help. Being in near-dark didn't help... This place wasn't great. Clearly not Ethereal, but he'd figured out that much long ago. Still, he'd rather not die here, so he pressed on. Still, they weren't even sure what the light was that they were headed for. Truth be told, he wouldn't be surprised if it lead to nothing more than a few new enemies... Perhaps it was time to figure out if he had any last wishes? No, not yet, he'd at last keep trying for now.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?
Time: Evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

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(Click image to zoom)
Character Sheet
Elvario Elvario​
  • Ninelle felt sick to her stomach. Her vision blurred and her fluttering became inconsistent with her intentions, wavering uneasily mid-air. It took her a few moments to recollect herself, and realize the outcome of the clash between vines and lasers.

    The wails of the fae inhabiting her ire bracer were all too piercing to the fairy that wielded their strength. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." Was all she could repeatedly mutter, vaguely trying to piece her bracer back together as she haphazardly followed after the scholar. The fact that the green lasers were so much stronger than the blue ones was unexpected. It was no wonder that they were wielded by those stationed closer to that light, or whatever it was that they were guarding/protecting.

    Still, having noticed that the scholar's pendant had cracked as well, they were in a tricky situation should they need to defend themselves for much longer. Looking at that distant blue light, she sighed, at least finding it fortunate that she hadn't eaten much today, before forcing herself to cast yet another spell.
    • Enthorned Domes E
      • Barrier F, Nature/Metal Affinity F, Magic E, Magic AoE F, Magic Range F, Magic Targets F, Spell Duration F, Energized E, Focus E
      • Craft tightly wound defensive cages of mismatched thorny vines and spiked metal sheets, to keep distant strikes at bay. (up to 15ft area, 30ft away, 1 hour, 4 HP)
    Various defensive cages of green and metal vines popped up around them, notably the largest of which were placed around the half-visible sentry to the left, and one in the direction of the blue light.

    "Run for it. Get behind the wall before those green lasers light up again." She stated tiredly, only barely able to keep up with the speed of her fellow fae.

    (Due to continuous magic usage, Ninelle is only able to use two movement actions.)

    Action 1&2: Follow beside Deliverance towards the light
    Action 3: Cast Enthorned Domes E

    Combat Round 6:
    Ninelle's bracer, as a consequence of utilizing a spell too powerful that it can currently handle, has completely split in two, holding on for dear life on Ninelle's wrist. The wailing from the fae inhabiting it has stopped, denoting how her catalyst is no longer usable.

    Additionally, despite feeling the effects of the mana drain, Ninelle has continued to utilize magic, which will lead to even greater adverse effects when it is time for her to act again. Should Deliverance choose to utilize magic this turn, he will also face Ninelle's previous movement penalty.

    In the meanwhile, the sentry powering up in the distance finally peaked, releasing a deafening crack as its frigid beam was fired across the cavern floor. Vines crumbled and metal splintered as the laser pierced through Ninelle's patchy barricade, but not without its consequences, as the beam had certainly dimmed and lessened in size as it shot towards her.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

The mana drain was starting to catch up to him, as he wasn't feeling all that great. He wondered how the Fairy was still flying after casting so much magic with such a tiny body. She also seemed to have some odd trouble with her catalyst, even more so than him... and yet she still decided to cast more magic. He didn't understand her, as he heard her tell him to run for it whist a blue laser was heading her way. She was in far more trouble right now, wasn't she?

All in all, he wasn't entirely sure why he did it, but he instinctively nodded and proceeded to reach out and [action 1] try to gently yet quickly grab Ninelle out of the air and out of the laser's range. He wasn't sure if he just imagined it or not, but he could feel a burning sensation in his hand. Did he get hit or just imagine it? He wasn't sure, but he had no time to think as he would [action 2/3] run north, towards the light and hoping to find cover or escape or... something, as he carried along Ninelle, trying not to slip on the ice.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Ninelle was weakly gathering her focus, watching the blue laser pierce through her defences and approach herself, before she was suddenly whisked away into darkness. Barely able to process where she was, she instinctively clambered towards the edge of the hand she lay in, holding onto Deliverance's little finger for dear life as she looked outside. Realizing the fae intended to take the hit for her, her heart softened like mush, but her determination only grew stronger with it.

    Retrieving the old wooden wand from her waist belt, she chanted one last spell. Her words faintly slurred, sporadic and without a rhythm, but she managed to cast it with the last of her strength, sending out one last barrage of vines from between her companion's fingers to protect him.
    • Vine Spray F
      • Flexible Affinity F, Nature Affinity F, Metal Affinity F, Magic F, Energized F, Focus F
      • Summon a short shotgun-like spray of vines or metal tendrils that violently charge outward, with the potential to disarm, wind or trip up a victim. (5ft away)
    (Due to continuous magic usage, Ninelle is only able to use one movement/dodging action.)

    Action 1: Take out her Fae Wand E
    Action 2: Cast a defensive spell (Vine Spray F) to fend off the laser as they make their escape
    Action 3: None

    Combat Round 7:
    Blue Sentry 2 vs Ninelle
    Sentry's Attack: 6
    Sentry's total attack effectiveness was 10, same as previous.
    However, Ninelle's [Enthorned Domes] E (Barrier F) have a HP of 4.
    Hence the final attack to defend against after piercing one of the barriers = 10 - 4 = 6
    Ninelle's Defence: 6
    3 (Int D) + 2 (Catalyst E) + 1 (Vine Spray F)
    The thinned blue light clashed with the vines violently, exploding in a weak shockwave with a wave of light. Neither won the battle this time, with frozen and singed vines in disrepair falling to the floor, and the laser having long dispersed in the frigid air.
    ---
    As Deliverance raced onward into the northern golden glow, the appearance of the ice wall blocking the light from reaching the flat field of sentries became clear, and he managed to dart behind it without a moment's notice.

    Behind the pair, in that terrible flat field full of sentries, green lights faintly began to reappear in the distance. They were accompanied by that tell-tale low hum, but the fae rounded the corner before the sentries could do anything more.

    Due to recklessly utilizing mana when she had barely anything left to give, Ninelle is completely paralyzed this round and unable to move. Laid flat in the palm of Deliverance's hand, her arms are limply curled around his little finger for support and safety. Her barriers in the previous region have also automatically dissipated, weaving themselves back into the frozen cavern floors.

    Regardless, before the fae stood a tunnel, merely filled with icicles and snow, as was the rest of the region. But after running around in darkness for so long, the distant golden glow at its end that lit up the whole area was both inviting and warm. However, located much farther from the surface than previous, the temperatures had slowly but surely dropped, causing teeth to chatter and skin to shiver.
    full
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He looked at his hand, expecting it to look rather burned by that laser. Except it wasn't. The expected pain had also remained just that: expected. He wondered why, but he noticed the reason for it soon enough. The Fairy had cast yet another spell and was now barely able to move, or so it seemed. He wondered why she'd done so, going so far as to completely exhaust herself.

The moment he got behind the walls, it seemed like the sentries died down. Or at least they didn't pursue them. That was good news, as he was afraid he'd not be able to survive it if they had. Deliverance decided not to take too much of a gamble, as he wasn't sure how long the sentries would remain passive or if they'd eventually pursue, so he decided to head onwards, towards the light. There wasn't much thinking to be done about this, as it was the only way he could go.

He started to shiver as it got even colder than before. Was the cold trying to keep that light inside of it, or something like that? He wasn't sure, but he didn't like it. Even so, he pressed on...

Only to suddenly recall he was still holding the fairy. “Ehm...” He started. He wanted to ask 'are you alright', buts she clearly wasn't. That would be a stupid question. “Why did you exhaust yourself like that?” That was the next best thing he could say, as he wondered what had driven her.

Actually... what had even driven him? Come to think of it, logically speaking, trying to save her was a mistake, wasn't it? She might interfere with his research and he could've gotten harmed from it. “Never mind.” He stated. How could he ask her to explain her actions when he couldn't even explain himself? Even her worth as a mage was ruined by her exhaustion and broken catalysts. He doubted he'd have further need of her, yet he still felt it'd be best to bring her along. Perhaps he subconsciously believed she might still hold valuable information?

Likely not. That's when he realised. This must be some sort of subconscious need for companionship, right? He read somewhere that people tended to be more social in stressful and uncertain situation, so long as they had a 'group' to belong with. They must've just formed their 2-person group like that and acted illogically based on such an innate desire. That was likely it. He nodded to himself, satisfied with that answer. It did not occur to him that it was a little odd that this cold and rational realisation didn't change the fact that he was still carefully holding onto Ninelle as they moved closer to the light, nor that it didn't diminish his desire to keep doing so in the slightest.
 
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Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Laid sprawled out in the palm of the scholar's hand, Ninelle could not even lift a finger. She was a mess. Her long orchid hair was splayed out everywhere, seeping through his fingers, whilst her golden dress was also crinkled and in disarray. Additionally, her mask was dislodged, hurting her face more than protecting it, but she couldn't even move her neck to fix it right now.

    She had never felt so drained of mana before. It felt as if her organs were burning, crying out for help, as she lay there paralyzed. But still, she smiled. Because she survived. They, survived. Ninelle couldn't help but wonder, if she had pushed herself this hard before... could she have avoided her second, third and fourth deaths? Are her efforts meaningful after all?

    She felt she had learnt something today, as ridiculous as that sounded right now.

    "To protect you... Why else?" Ninelle muttered back quietly in response to his question, even as he retracted his words. It wasn't something she had even thought about it. Her body moved instinctively, even if she knew she could've fainted after forcing herself to cast that last spell. Could she say it was just a hero's nature? But, even now, that thought always only made her scoff.

    Still, she was glad her only companion down here was still alive and uninjured. It was reassuring, in more ways than one.

    "Hey you... what's your name?" Ninelle asked quietly, still somewhat delirious after everything that just went on. "It's funny to think that we've been through so much together, yet I don't even know your name..." She trailed off tiredly, closing her eyes for a moment to rest.
 
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Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

As he calmed down a bit, his heart-rate slowing down and his breathing only being affected by the cold, he suddenly started to become aware of how strange this was. To have a woman in the palm of his hand. In any normal circumstance, he'd never even think this might ever happen. Yet here they were. Still, with how she looked, he couldn't exactly ask her to fly on her own again. Not that it mattered much. She was pretty light-weight and he didn't really need this hand right now. He did, momentarily, wonder if it'd be rude to put her in his pocket, should he need both hands. That said, he figured he'd cross that bridge if and when he got there. He'd just need to carefully remember not to instinctively pocket what he was carrying, like he'd usually do with his catalysts and tools.

The fact that Ninelle started speaking certainly reduced that risk. Her words made him wonder. To protect him? Yes, perhaps... considering he was protecting her, his chance of success would be higher if she protected him in turn? Thus they'd just been keeping each-other safe like that? That was a somewhat acceptable and logical conclusion. Probably the best he'd get, so he'd best stop to further overthink this. “I see.” He replied, think that must explain his own previous actions as well.

Surprise filled him when he was suddenly asked for his name. In fact, he even needed some time to digest that question. He'd been 'slave, boy, student' most of this life, after all. Well, it's not like people hadn't been a lot more kind to him lately. Oddly so, but he still hadn't fully gotten used to it. “Deliverance.” He stated, wondering how she'd react. He knew he'd chosen a peculiar name for himself, after all. “What is yours?” He found himself asking it on instinct. Perhaps as a simple call and response to her own question, but somehow, he realised he was actually curious.

He looked at her again, as the odd mask she was wearing was slipping. He debated putting it back in place for her, but that'd be rude, wouldn't it? Besides, without his tools, he'd lack the finesse to do so. He might just end up shoving her entire head to the side. To think someone this small had so much magical power. It was rather impressive. Perhaps the ethereal itself was also not bound by size and could be as small as this fairy, or even smaller? He shook his head. That was some non-scientific thinking he was doing no, for no real reason at all.

It was probably the cold. No, definitely the cold. “Why do you wear such a mask? Does it not obstruct your vision?” He found himself asking it, as his mind hadn't fully let go of the earlier thought of shoving it back on properly. Even so, it was one of the many illogical things about her, so perhaps getting this answer might teach him something useful? Yes, that was it. He'd just need to collect some more information. That'd help him make sense of it all. It'd probably also explain why he found himself pulling his hand back into his sleeves a bit, so that she would be able to enjoy some of the warmth from a bit, like a blanket.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • "No surname?" She found herself asking back subconsciously. It wasn't something she'd usually ask. She wasn't sure why she even wanted to know, but she did. Strangely, it felt as if a part of her was even more curious about it than the origin of his first name.

    "Deliverance..." She muttered slowly, sounding out each syllable. "Quite the long name isn't it? But it's nice. I feel like it suits you." She couldn't put her finger on why. It wasn't particularly to do with the meaning of the word, rather the sound of it. Still, to be named after a noun... she couldn't help but find herself idly pondering his origins before more questions were brought her way.

    "Ninelle Lifeblossom." Her response to his first question was simple and easy enough. However, towards the latter few... she could only grow silent.

    With some strength regained, she subconsciously tugged at her newfound blanket for more warmth as she thought to herself. It was strange to think that she was using someone's sleeve as a blanket... but it was warm. The fairy found herself smiling at the humorousness of it all. Who would think that stone-faced and one-track minded fae would do something so kind and adorable for her?

    But, for a while, the air was quiet. Many thoughts flashed by her head during this time. But eventually, she found the strength and courage to do what she wanted to do. They were battle comrades after all, and had saved each others' lives more than once. At least, that was the excuse Ninelle gave herself. It was strangely hard to admit that she... just wanted him to know more about herself.

    "Will you look at me for a moment? I can show you what's behind it." She offered gently, in a most light-hearted tone, but only she knew how terrifying her words were to her own ears. Many had seen her bare face already, this was true. But that was never revealed voluntarily. Perhaps, this was the first time she was wilfully showing another the abomination she had become.

    Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself as she peeled her mask off in one swift motion. Against the backdrop of ice and snow, she was sure that her pale metal half only looked scarier. Slowly, with a hint of melancholy in her expression, she couldn't help but bring a hand to her cheek, feeling the touch of frigid metal against her skin.

    "It's ugly isn't it?" She asked quietly, but her words were spoken more like a statement of truth rather than a question. "I'm sure you can understand why I wear a mask now." She stated quietly, unaware that her gaze had drifted towards her fellow fae, cautiously gauging his expression with a faint anticipation.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

“No.” He confirmed his lack of a surname. As for his first name, he silent silent for a bit, before speaking. “Thanks.” He meant that, despite how short it was. He wasn't often told the name suited him, but it was nice to know that someone else thought he made a good enough choice. When she mentioned her own name, he almost replied with the standard 'nice to meet you', but that'd be a bit late, wouldn't it? Then again, for someone using plant growing magic to be called Lifeblossom... “Your name suits you as well.” That was something he could at least reply with, from an objective point of view.

He was a bit surprised when she asked him to look at her. He had no clue why she'd ask, but he figured he'd humour her, pausing his walking for a bit as to not walk into a wall. He stared at her for a bit, being a bit surprised, but that was about it. When she told him it was ugly, he was more surprised. “Is it? It looks rather well-crafted and well-maintained.” He replied. Surely, whomever made this for her deserved some more praise for their work rather than to just have it being called ugly.

He tried to make sense of it. “Do you dislike the fact that it doesn't match your skin colour?” That was one of the few things he could come up with. He'd imagine painting it might be difficult, as it'd have to be a type of paint that'd be highly resistance to whatever she'd be doing. Like struggling against laser blasts in an unknown dimension. As for why she wore a mask, he could at least understand that much. “Yes, it is uncomfortable when people stare at you. I know.” He used his none-Ninelle carrying hand to brush away some of the hair in front of his ears and show her the scars where they used to be pointed, but had been cut into human-shaped forms. “I also prefer to hide these behind my hair, as feeling like they are stared at is uncomfortable. It's the same reason as to why I wear gloves and longs sleeves, for that matter.”

As he finished, he suddenly had a question occur to him. Why? Why did he feel the need to tell her this? Peculiar. Perhaps the cold and leftover adrenaline were making him less rational. Then again, he did feel some companionship with her, on the topic of hiding certain features. Perhaps they might exchange some hints? After all, he could imagine Ninelle still go stared at for wearing a mask, just like he got stared at for his choice of outfit during a hot summer day. Yes, that was likely the reason he'd felt the need to share more about himself. A perfect foundation for them to share their knowledge later.
 
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Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Ninelle was dumbfounded by his words. But after a momentary pause, she burst out laughing. "Aha, It is indeed both well-crafted and well-maintained, especially after the Pope's blessi-" She wisely cut herself short, before laughing to herself a little bit more. "I should've expected such a response from you." She smiled finally, wiping a stray tear from her eye.

    Yes, she should've expected nothing less from this objective and analytical soul. Still, it was a relief. To not spot a single sign of disgust or abhorrence on his face... only she knew how much that meant to her.

    "No... it's, well, it's complicated." She murmured softly toward his first question, not quite sure how to articulate it herself. To wake up one day as a half-construct, after being a simple fairy for so long, was one thing. But having that same day be the worst day of her life was another. Every whir of her gears, or clink of her robotics, every single thing brought back horrific memories of that day. So how could she even begin to embrace her new self?

    Fortunately, Deliverance's next few words brought her back from those thoughts, as she looked up at him curiously. Immediately however, her eyes widened, and all prior thoughts were thrown out the window.

    Whirring her wings and darting forward, the fairy suddenly flew straight towards his closest ear, reaching out a cautious hand to examine the severity of the scars. "Who did this to you? You are not still with them are you?" She hastily asked, subconsciously equating the sight of such scars with slavery. She knew many with scars on their bodies, and too many had theirs originate from that dreaded term.

    "Tell me, and I will-" Abruptly, she cut herself off, finally realizing she was getting out of line. "Ah, I mean- I'm sorry. I got too ahead of myself there." She apologized sheepishly but sincerely, tentatively retrieving the hands that wanted to keep examining his scars. She didn't know what came over her, and she couldn't help but blush out of embarrassment. Without her mask, which usually hid her expressions, she felt especially shy at this moment.

    The awkward fairy hurriedly returned to her little bed on Deliverance's palm and hid under the blanket. Discreetly retrieving her mask and pulling it back over her face, she sighed in relief and scratched her head. "A-anyway, we should keep moving. It looks like we'll be reaching the source of this golden light soon..." She warned cautiously, trying to retrieve a more focused and serious demeanour, as she looked forward again from the safety of Deliverance's palm.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He was confused when she burst out laughing. Was he wrong to think it was well-crafted and well-maintained? No, she confirmed as much. She also mentioned the Pope. That was the leader of this nation, right? Right. Ah, she must have laughed at him for even suggesting that something sanctioned by the leader of this nation might not be well-crafted and well-maintained. That would indeed be a very odd thing to insinuate, had he known about it. Even so, it didn't bring him the slightest bit closer to an answer as to why she thought it was ugly. It also didn't seem like he'd get his answer either.

He was a bit surprised when she suddenly flew up and even more surprised when she asked those questions. “It is no longer relevant.” He answered both questions in one go. He already started to regret bringing this up. Luckily enough, she was quick to withdraw again. To his surprise, however, she withdrew back to underneath his sleeve. He'd expected her to just be flying again, if she was this energetic, but apparently not. Although it was rather odd, he decided to leave it be for now.

“Yes, we should.” He replied. It'd be best to keep moving, as to not get even more cold or to keep up this confusing interaction. He'd head for the light again.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Ninelle bit her tongue at Deliverance's curt response. She felt awful for overstepping. But perhaps more than that, she hated how much she was overthinking. It is no longer relevant? As in, it's not something of relevance to her? Did he hate her for asking such things? Such thoughts made her want to cry, and she had no idea why. Since when did she care what he thought about her? She wanted to just ask him and put such thoughts to rest, but she didn't have the courage to. She instinctively knew that she'd be stabbing her own heart with a knife if her suspicions were right.

    Hiding herself in his sleeve, she found herself at a loss, with a sudden depressed air of overactive melancholy. She didn't know what to do, and hated how emotional she was right now. But at least, as she reminded herself of her status as a hero, although such a thought would usually frustrate her, she found herself again, and was able to look onward with a focus on the dangers ahead, regardless of her emotional state.

    ---

    After wandering around this huge, desolate wasteland with nothing but snow and ice for miles, and the rush of adrenaline from the field of sentries was beginning to wear off, things like fatigue, hunger and dehydration were slowly beginning to catch up with the pair, even if the dropping temperatures made such needs hard to notice.

    As they approached the light, the tunnel widened into a small, circular chamber, one still with a very similar environment to the previous regions. The ice walls were as tall and plain as ever, but what was most noticeable was the strange spiral pillar in the center. There, wound in white, frost-covered vines and leaves, was the source of that bright light. A small phoenix, with eyes shut and a mane of dimmed blue fire. It visibly appeared weak, and feeble, with the flames that covered its body dark, and brown-ish. Still, its light still shone brightly, as if even its prison could never hope to hold such a thing captive.

    full

    Slowly, as the pair approached, the magnificent creature opened its eyes. Vague irises with a hint of blue stared at them, gauging, but curious at the same time. "You took your time." She spoke finally with a scoff, turning her head as if displeased. Her voice was low, but feminine, with a hint of flames crackling as an undertone to every word. "Free me. And I will take you to the boy that you seek." She ordered simply, watching their every move as she rested her head atop the restrictive vines around her neck.

    Jagged stalagmites lined the chamber's edge, hence it didn't seem difficult to free her by hand, without any use of magic.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

All things considered, Deliverance was getting rather tired of this place. In its most literal sense, at that. “Should we try melting some ice in the hope that it's drink-able?” He asked, observing the walls. He could probably melt it with body-warmth, which would easily give the Fairy enough to drink, but he'd likely suffer from frostbite before he himself would get enough. However, as he was debating it, he noticed the light had gotten more intense. They were already almost at their destination, so he'd better just see about it afterwards.

He was surprised to see the source of this light, as it was a creature that looked rather Ethereal. She casually asked to be freed, just like that, but there were two problems with that. For one, he wasn't even looking for that boy. Secondly, he was far more interested in who or what she was. Something so ethereal shouldn't go unstudied. He headed over to the cage. With his catalyst nearly destroyed, he'd have to try to [Appraise E] this creature from a much closer proximity.

“I have more interest in learning who you are, what you are, why you are here and who put you here.” He replied, as he tried to study the creature. What he wondered most, above all things, was if her imprisonment was just or not. He'd rather not free someone that burned an entire empire, as even he knew that'd be a stupid move. He'd probably get his scholarship revoked if he did, after all.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • "Ah? Oh, you're right, we've been down here for quite a while now haven't we..." Deliverance's words pulled Ninelle back to the seriousness of the situation. They had been down here for a long time already, and yet there was still no sign of an exit. Rather this place seemed endlessly large... Just how powerful was that heart to create an entire world like this beneath its feet? As her companion had mentioned, food & water would soon become a growing concern, especially if they were stuck down here long-term.

    The fairy's attention was diverted by the glaring sight before them, her eyes squinting slightly at the sudden brightness of it all. Realizing this was the Sylvan voice that had called to them earlier, additionally waking up the sentries that forced them to fight for their life, Ninelle found herself staring at the phoenix with an oddly unsympathetic gaze. However, the phoenix's mention of the lost child immediately made such grudges disperse momentarily.

    "You know where he is?" She blurted out, the hope in her voice clear as day. The hope that he was even still alive had always been very weak, but with the phoenix's words, she felt that there was still light at the end of the tunnel. Her uselessness and inability could still be rectified. There was still a chance that she... was not a failure of a hero.


    (Deliverance's [Appraisal E] would grant him little outside knowledge, for she is simply stronger than the ability he used. However, he would be able to tell that the golden flames felt in the heart's core, and the weak flames that this phoenix was covered in, were one and the same.)

    "Impudent elf, you would do well to understand who you are speaking to." The phoenix scoffed with a sharp gaze. "My name is Farah. I am the ninth daughter of the esteemed phoenix spirit, Lanattra." She announced arrogantly, puffing up what few feathers she could. "Rescue me, and you will acquaint yourself with one of the greatest phoenix families in all the land." She stated plainly, as if believing her words were more than enough to convince anyone to do as she asked.

    Addressing the elf's other questions, she continued, albeit a little more quietly than previous. "You ignorant fae must be unaware, but I have dwelled and guarded the fabled woods of Lodeli for a long time." She began tiredly. "When I discovered that disgusting plaguebearing heart after a long nap, in my territory no less, I naturally fought it."

    Suddenly, her eyes flared with a flaming blue rage. "Then that fae child, one of yours no doubt, suddenly burst into the scene just as I was about to deal the final blow!" She seethed through gritted teeth. "Instead, I was the one taken out of the fight amidst the distraction! To regenerate itself, it pierced me with vines and drained my spirit. I've never bore such humiliation before."

    The phoenix closed her eyes for a moment, as if to calm herself down. "Hmph. But, at least that fae child was not completely useless." She scoffed quietly. "He fought long after I was rendered immobile. In fact, he left a gaping hole in the heart's exterior, in which I could see my own magic burn and call to me."

    "Though some of my magic came back with that blow, it was not enough, and the heart restrained us both. Taking us deep underground, it separated us on far sides, imprisoning us whilst draining us dry."     She stated calmly, before looking toward the pair of fae once more.

    "I'm sure you must've felt it yourself. That heart drains the magic of everything in this forsaken land, for this is its dimension. Its core, if you will." She elaborated a little more amicably, before slowly turning her gaze specifically to the fairy resting on the elf's palm. "If you seek that child's well being, you would do well to release me as soon as possible. He is too far for my senses to reach, so I have no idea of his current state. Considering my own condition, it would be a miracle if that youth was still alive and well..." She trailed off regretfully, resting her head again on the vines that restrained her.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He listened to the Phoenix with interest. The insults did nothing to him, as he was used to far, far worse. If anything, the fact she spoke so much was a relief. His appraisal didn't grant him much, so at least her many words told him enough. “Do you know who she's speaking off?” He'd ask Ninelle, unsure who Lanattra was. When she told him he could acquaint himself with one of the greatest Phoenix Families, he wasn't sure what to make of it. “What benefit would there be to gain from doing so?” She made it sound like it was even better than his current scholarship, but he couldn't figure out how it could be for the life of him.

“You slept and arrived late?” That's what it sounded like. Perhaps that was why the Fae child got involved. Even so, he could relate a bit to how it must have been like to loose to it. “That does indeed sound unfortunate.” She even went on to explain more of the child's involvement. “I see.” He nodded, as things were falling into place.

He sighed. At this rate, he was aware of it. He was in no position to study the Heart. He'd lost most his tools, was freezing up and getting hungry, thirsty and tired. Destroying it was the only logical option. It was a big loss, but loosing his life would be a bigger loss. “Very well, I shall free you.” He stated, as he held his hand out for Ninelle to relocate herself.

After she'd hop off, he'd attempt to break the cage (either with his hands or with those stalagmites, depending on whichever seemed most logical). He doubted the fairy, at her size, could do much, so it'd be up to him, even though he was without magic. Well, he might still be able to cast a single small spell, but he'd rather not risk it. As such, he'd try freeing her the 'mundane' way.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Ice Tunnel
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Ninelle's heart was held on a tightrope. Yes, she couldn't be too hopeful just yet. The child might already be gone. The feeling of having your hopes rise, only to plummet back down was quite disheartening, but, she was determined. Turning to Deliverance as he addressed her, she silently dug through her memories and studies before shaking her head. "No, I really haven't dwelled in the Fae See for that long. Perhaps the Deacon might know though..." She explained lightly, stiffening up a little due as she noticed the phoenix's blatant gaze of contempt at their ignorance.

    Quietly listening to Farah's whimsical tale, Ninelle couldn't help but think that the phoenix was a terrible guard considering the current state of Lodeli. Still, the events that unfolded seemed rather tragic. If luck was even a little bit on their side after all, the plaguebearing heart would have been long gone and the pair would never have been imprisoned down here.

    Nodding toward Deliverance, Ninelle obediently hopped out of her warm haven and took to the skies. The cold air was cruel, and made her want to crawl back into bed again, but she had more than enough sense to not act on such child-like whims right now as she watched their new guide be freed.


    "You have no idea the power a phoenix holds, do you?" At their ignorance, Farah scoffed, her vague eyes staring into their own alternatively. "Our feathers have been used since ancient times for rituals and blessings, not to mention the flames we wield themselves. Refinement, blacksmithing, alchemy, you seek out our flames to reach the pinnacle of your mortal skills." She explained lazily with a tone full of derision.

    Sighing with a huff, she elaborated a little more, making it clear she felt as if she was talking to a bunch of idiots. "Think of it this way. We are beings that can promise great fame and fortune, enough for anyone to skyrocket in those hierarchical societies you both undoubtedly live in." She finished lowly as she turned her head.

    As she moved onto her tale however, the elf's first question made her feel as if a rock had just landed on her head. "Impudent!" She screeched, clearly wishing she could angrily flap her wings at him. "You have no idea the importance of a phoenix's hibernation!" Farah hissed before both parties slowly calmed down, and she was able to finish her regretful tale.

    The vines were frozen and extremely cold, making it painful to hold, as well as difficult to yank and pry aside. However with time and effort, including slowly shattering and battering the more brittle areas of the pillar, the phoenix was about to weakly step out of her cage for the first time since imprisonment. Every step she took, she wobbled, clearly not as well and full of vitality as the appearance she put up. Still, with time and effort, she slowly stretched out her wings with her usual bright and arrogant smile.

    As she stretched, a flare of warmth was emitted, denoting how she still contained a meagre amount of magic spirit despite all the odds. "The fact that I am able to retain any magic at all till now is all thanks to that child." She explained softly, clearly not as begrudging as she appeared previous.

    "You have done me a great service, I thank you fae. Now let us go." Farah did not hesitate, greeting the pair with a quick nod of gratitude before rapidly trotting deeper into the dark icy tunnel ahead of them, leaving behind a trail of v-shaped talon marks on the snowed ground.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

Considering Ninelle didn't know this fire-bird either, Deliverance decided to take its words with a bag of salt. Especially the talk of grandeur. His former owners had shown him just how much people liked to brag about things and how far they could bend or break the realms of reality in order to do so. This particular self-roasting chicken might not be an exception to that.

It's why he wholeheartedly agreed when she asked him if he knew what power she held. “Indeed, I have not.” When she named all a phoenix's usages, he couldn't help himself from wondering... “Would such qualities not lead to your species to be hunted rather than venerated?” He didn't get how one could brag about being so useful as a tool to others. It felt like a dangerous and stupid thing to do.

Once again, however, he had to agree with her. “Indeed, I have not.” He repeated the same sentence from before. He had no clue why they'd hibernate or why that was important. He thought she was about to tell him, but she didn't, so perhaps there was no real importance to it after all? He didn't know and he didn't have much time to keep wondering about it.

Even through his gloves, his hands started to hurt. He clicked his tongue. He didn't mind pain too much, but he figured he'd have to ensure nothing permanent would happen. It'd be more difficult to write and take notes of he lost a finger to frostbite. Luckily enough, he seemed to get her out before it got that far, as he withdrew his hands into his sleeves for them to warm up again.

She did bring up something that perked his interest again. “How?” He'd ask, upon her mention of the child somehow helping her keep her magic retained. He wanted more details on it. Perhaps this was a link to the ethereal, after all. He didn't react to her thanks, as he didn't feel like he'd done particularly much. Nor did he think her gratitude could aid his ethereal research right now. Perhaps later? He'd have to see. For now, he follow along.

However, he did attempt to silently stay behind a bit and whisper to Ninelle. “Are you capable of piecing together the situation? My assumption is that she isn't lying in that the heart took her and the kid captive in this ice-prison, but I feel like we're not being told the whole truth.” After all, this wasn't a good enough theory. There had to be something missing, right? Perhaps Ninelle might figured out more.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Chamber Platform
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • Ninelle was surprised by her fellow fae's suspicion, "You doubt her?" She questioned quietly, as she thought back to the phoenix's words and mentions.

    Hearing a dramatic story from anyone always led room for doubt. But, she couldn't quite pinpoint anything particularly suspicious sounding, apart from maybe how she came across the plaguebearing heart after a long nap. Perhaps that was worded quite vaguely. Either way though... Ninelle couldn't say she had any terrible suspicions. "I'm not sure either... but it's not like we can ask anyone else right now. And... at the very least, I don't think she means that fae child harm." She reasoned carefully, holding that lost child above priority more than anything.

    Slowly, her thoughts diverged from suspicions to her opinion towards Farah as a whole. "One thing's for certain is that she's really putting up a strong front right now." She smiled gently, not really off put by her arrogant attitude. "Even if her words sound pretty harsh to the ear... I can't help but admire her for it. Considering what she must've been through, whilst waiting for a saviour..." She whispered back, watching that dimly flaming back totter onward through the tunnel, almost imperceptibly stumbling every now and then.

    At Deliverance's blunt question, Farah's dark flames blazed bright with anger, before slowly dying back down, as if suddenly distracted by subsequent thoughts. It took her a while before she formulated a response, pondering quietly until she shook off the residual ice coating her feathers. "...we are strong and elusive. And have had deep ties with certain fae lineages for a long time." She explained quietly, turning to the blond elf. "You may look at me and see something huntable. But I am nothing compared to my predecessors. Especially right now." She scoffed quietly, proudly meeting his golden eyes with her blue ones.

    After a few moments, she turned away, continuing the trek into the narrow darkness before them. "But your ignorant questions are cruel, fae. You bring back bad memories. I do not wish to converse with you about these unnecessary matters anymore." Her words echoed softly within the caverns, her expression indiscernible with her back turned.

    Slowly but surely, the frigid tunnel they dwelled in began to ascend, before widening out into a large cliff-edged platform. Below them sat a deep abyss, with its bottom indiscernible. However, scattered across the chamber, deadly stalagmites poked out from the darkness, betraying the treacherousness that lay beneath them. For those that could not fly, there was only one path forward. A narrow bridge made entirely of ice stretched across the chasm, connecting their platform with another of relatively even height.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He nodded. It was true, the Phoenix didn't seem to mean the Fae child harm. Not that it mattered to him. What mattered to him more was if this Phoenix would be a reliable source of information, such as about the dimension-breaking properties of what was going on right here and now, but he feared like she wouldn't be. However, one of Ninelle's next statements confused him. “A strong front? What do you mean?” He had a vague idea on what that meant, but wasn't entirely sure. He didn't know how to factor it into his estimations of her truthfulness either. As for what the Phoenix must've gone through, likely some days in a cold and magic draining prison, he could agree. “It does indeed sound like it would've been unpleasant.”

Resisting the desire to warm his hands near the angrily burning Phoenix at the fear of having them burned off, he simply awaited for her to use her words again. Still, he decided it was best to use one of those 'common' sentences they'd taught him at the academy. “My apologies, I meant no offence.” That normally de-escalated things well enough, after he asked about things people weren't eager to talk about. Still, it was a shame that she didn't wish to talk more about such things, as it was about to get interesting.

That said, the time for talking was soon over. “That is unfortunate.” He stated, upon seeing the narrow bridge of ice. The chance of him slipping and dying was considerable enough to make him hesitate. Going back wasn't an option. What was? He doubted the bird or Ninelle could fly him over. What else? He had no magic to keep himself stable, to jump or to fly or... He looked at the stalagmites. Perhaps if he could break some of them off, he could at least use them to have extra support and decrease the chance of slipping up and plummeting to his death? “I'll admit that, whilst I don't think I have a fear of heights, I do think crossing this bridge possesses a significant risk. Any options to reduce that would be welcome.” He eventually stated, as he could use some fresher ideas than trying to use the stalagmites. In the worst case scenario, he'd just have to gamble it. Or perhaps tell the other two to head on without him and get this resolved? He wasn't sure if that'd get him stuck in this realm though, so that was too much of a risk.
 
Location: The See, Lodeli Woods, Inner Rings, Beneath a clearing?, Chamber Platform
Time: Late evening?
Weather: Frigid, still air, cold
Ninelle (#54d1b0)​

  • "You can't tell?" Ninelle glanced at him, surprised by his question. "She's weak and tottering, yet still steadily speaking as if nothing's amiss." She explained quietly, lingering a bit behind the phoenix with Deliverance's company. "I just don't know if she's doing it for us, or for herself." Her eyes narrowed in thought as she finished her words, wondering who that phoenix was trying to fool. It was a relatable sentiment, fooling yourself or others into thinking that you could fit shoes you realistically couldn't. Perhaps that was why Ninelle found it hard to bear the idea that she meant them harm.

    "Unpleasant?" Deliverance's apathetic response to her subtle mention of Farah's time in captivity shocked her. He... was more unfeeling that she thought. Was that all he could say in response to such a thing? His response was as if she just told him she had overcooked her food or travelled home in the rain or something. She didn't understand how he had no empathy or sympathy at all. As comrades that had fought in battle and saved each other's lives more than once, Ninelle still appreciated him a lot. But she couldn't help but wonder if all of that meant nothing at all to him.

    His consequently robotic apology towards Farah didn't help either. "Elf, don't apologize if you don't mean it." Farah's gaze swept him as they reached the endless cavernous abyss. Both she and Ninelle fell silent in thought as they pondered the way forward. Naturally, they weren't pondering for themselves but for their landlocked fae scholar, as despite everything, neither even thought of the potential idea to leave him behind.

    "Um... well, I might have an idea..." Ninelle announced cautiously, taking a deep breath as she drew her fae wand again. With a burst of gentle green light, one likened to the aura and hues of swaying grass and rustling leaves, a large circular cage, 15ft in radius, woven with floral and metallic vines, encased the fairy. The top and bottom of the cage were perfectly flat, and the whole structure flew wherever Ninelle flew, creating a somewhat amusing moving platform for Deliverance to ride atop. "I'll fly over the bridge so that if something does happen, you'll be able to fall onto it at least." She elaborated thoughtfully, if a bit sheepishly, lowering herself to the platform floor for the fae to step on. "You'll also probably have to carry me once we reach the next platform, I'm already feeling the aftereffects..." She cautioned, already beginning to feel the lethargic effects of the mana drain creeping up on her again, despite the break they took.

    • Woven Cage E
      • Barrier F, Nature/Metal Affinity F, Magic E, Magic AoE F, Spell Duration F, Energized E, Focus E
      • Craft a woven cage of mismatched floral and metallic vines around a target, to protect or create a platform (up to 15ft radius area, 1 hour, 4 HP).
    "How strange. Fairy, why do you combine your nature and metal magic?" Farah piped up curiously, able to watch Ninelle use her magic for the first time in person. "I vaguely sensed it when I first felt your presence down here, but it is strange. Wouldn't you want to use the properties of one or the other?" She continued thoughtfully, peering down at the encased fairy. "Oh, um..." Ninelle was caught a little off-guard, realizing this was the first time someone had asked such a thing. "My magic's been like this ever since the last time I was revived. Right now... I am unable to consistently separate my two types of magic with each other." She elaborated sheepishly.
 
Deliverance

UbuwlVM.jpg

From:
Elysia Wentworth from Shiei no Sona-Nyl ~What a beautiful memories~
Mentions: Ninelle SilverFeathers SilverFeathers
Languages: Common | [Terran] | {Sylvan}

He was a bit confused. “If that's true, wouldn't that be common? I believe I once read that all animals attempt to hide their weakness by default. It shouldn't matter too much if they're intelligent or not.” He nodded to himself, perhaps Ninelle's observations were correct. Yes, they likely were. He doubted the Phoenix would do it for them though, probably just a survival instinct. That would explain it well enough.

“Indeed.” He replied, confirming he believed the Phoenix's experiences would've been unpleasant. He wasn't sure what there was to question about it. Clearly, such a fate couldn't have been pleasant, right? Even he knew that, knowing captivity all too well. He'd only learned that [beasts] were more than just horrible creatures when he met some of them in the Duchy. His days with them in the West Empire had also been rather unpleasant.

The Phoenix's reaction to his apology confused him. Weren't people normally expecting phrases like that, regardless of the intention behind them? For her to tell him off for it was odd, but somewhat refreshing, in a sense. Honesty was far more scientific than faked politeness and niceties, after all. He was glad he wasn't a social scientist, as sociology would be the bane of his existence. He truly didn't get these types of things.

On the topic of not getting things, he was a bit surprise the Phoenix didn't just fly onwards. Ninelle was still weakened, so he'd expect her to at least try to bring him along, for he still served a purpose. This Phoenix was a different case. Perhaps, however, she was also far more weakened than he imagined? Meaning she'd also still have use of him? That was likely the case.

As for Ninelle's solution, he nodded. “That would be acceptable.” Being carried over a ravine in exchange for carrying her later was a mutually beneficial exchange. Sort-off. Technically, he'd be in her debt, as she'd expel her energy for his sake, wouldn't she? It likely confirmed his suspicion that she believed she'd still have need of him. He listened in on the talk of magic, but didn't have much to say to it. His obsession with the ethereal had left little room to study other magic and elements.
 
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