Finished [Nan Gau] May Even These Peseants Have Respite! Pt. III

[Moonberry]

Spoiler: TLDR

Actions. Aedri is trying not to cry and going through emotional trauma. blah blah blah

Aedrianna Belmonte

╔══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╗​

Aedrianna moved like a ghost, allowing herself to be tugged along as if her body was no longer her own. The weight in her chest deepened. It was as if every breath threatened to shatter her from within, yet she did not break. Her tears, unbidden and silent, streaked her cheeks like the first raindrops of a storm that refused to fully form. Sorieiel had vanished, along with the rest of her companions, swallowed by the same fate—or worse. The ache of abandonment hollowed her bones, each step heavier than the last. The world pressed in on her, cold and unforgiving, as loneliness encircled her heart, suffocating.

Her father’s face—frozen in that grotesque mimicry of life—burned behind her eyelids. His ash still clung to the air, and she swore she could taste the bitter remnants of him on her tongue. Could her friends have suffered the same? Transformed into twisted reflections of what they once were, like him? The thought clawed at her soul, leaving wounds that would never heal.

At Yume’s telepathic prod, Aedrianna’s hand twitched, a faint squeeze in response. The warmth of the girl's touch was distant, barely registering against the cold that had settled into her very marrow. She wasn’t rejecting the comfort, but she couldn’t fully embrace it either. Moments ago, her emotions had erupted like a wildfire, raw and uncontrollable, but now she felt numb—shut off from the agony that had nearly drowned her. The pain was still there, of course, lingering beneath the surface, a deep and endless sea, but she had forced it back.

The world had grown dimmer. Colder. Her heart thudded in her chest, an uneven, broken rhythm, and the memories—oh, the memories—they were lined with a sorrow that threatened to consume her. Nostalgia twisted into grief, every smile and laugh from her past now tainted with the loss of the man who had raised her. She felt as though she were crumbling, piece by piece, dissolving into the ash that still floated in the air around her.

Aedrianna’s lips twitched, a mockery of a smile, but no words came. They were trapped, suffocating beneath the weight of her sorrow. She wanted to speak, to offer Yume something—anything—but her voice had been stolen, bound in chains by the grief that now held her prisoner. Perhaps Yume should not probe so deeply into her mind, a mind fractured and fragile, barely holding itself together. Each thought she tried to focus on slipped through her fingers like sand, the edges of reality becoming blurred and unfocused.

Martin’s voice reached her ears, but it was muffled, distant, like an echo from another world. She nodded, though the motion felt empty, hollow. She didn’t know what he was saying, couldn’t grasp the meaning of his words, because everything—everything—was too much. The world had become too much.

But still, she had to move. Her feet dragged forward, her body obeying without thought. There was nothing left. No home, no father, no familiar warmth to return to. Just the ash and the silence, the endless, cold silence. And so she moved, because that was all she could do. She had to keep moving.

Because if she stopped, she feared there would be nothing left of her.

╚══ஓ๑♡๑ஓ══╝
Mentions:
Tau saxon​

 

[Develius]

---

"CURRENTLY DISGUISED AS 'CASSIDY B. FLINT'"

Mentions:
| saxon [Eris] | Maxxob [NIgel] | Maverick Six [Martin] | Tau [Yume] | Moonberry [Aedrianna/Hiruq] |
​

---

"Oh, jus' over yonder?" Cassidy reiterated as he pointed to the direction where Eris mentioned their destination was, "Huh...". He was a bit surprised that they were that close, originally suspecting they were farther away then anticipated. After all, the snow was deeper here which made trekking through it much more of a hassle then it really ought to be. Couldn't complain though. He watched as the priest took a moment to pray for the fallen souls, paying her respects to what were once kindred spirits.

Well, as kindred spirit to an organic fleshie as they came. These skeletal zombies might as well be the skeleton's own bastard, distantly-related/totally-not-related cousins at this stage.

Speaking of their own, Cassidy realized that Soriel was nowhere to be seen. This was oddly... suspicious. He tried looking for some sort of blood trail or footsteps, but somehow couldn't detect her at all. Maybe one of the Rotten Hides got her and pulled her under while they weren't looking... or maybe she fled the group? Damn shame... he wanted to apologize to her for accidentally and unintentionally shooting her. At this point, he assumed they merely lost another teammate. They oughta keep moving, something which he'd hear Nigel agree with personally.

No rest for the weary.

---

Reaching the hamlet, Cassidy gazed upon the rampant devastation that rendered the quiet Nan-Gau into scorched ruins. He was jaded to all this. Like poor fellas but also what were they to him. "Looks like 'ay got 'ere looooong before us..." Cassidy muttered lowly as he lit another cigarette. Hearing Martin's further comments, Cassidy blew out a puff of smoke out into the ruins, as Nigel gave his theory of what might've happened. Yume also mentioned how the fire didn't look like just any regular ole' flame... there was something different about them. Still red-hot embers... which at this temperature would've burned out a long time ago. "I opine that one of 'em horsebacked folk probably did'it." the gunslinger coined in, recalling what was said in the debriefing, before simply shrugging, "Or helped spread dem 'flames along... either way, something's mighty off. Stay on yer toes, fellas."

The gunslinger then carefully proceeds to search about the ruins, looking for any survivors or clues that might've told of what happened. Any exceptionally dark space would also be subject to his [Dark Vision F].

---

Spoiler: Summary

• Replies to Eris; listens to her prayer.
• Tries to search for Soriel; unsuccessful.
• Suggests the horse rider mentioned in the debriefing caused the fire in some capacity.
• Searches about town for clues.

 

[Kikimura]

Tomoko Brandy​

--
A rustle in the bushes caught the group's attention, the sound crisp and sudden in the stillness just outside the Hamlet. The noise crept closer, the underbrush shivering with movement, until a figure burst from the shadows—a certain catgirl, her ears twitching and tail flicking with barely contained excitement. Brandy landed right in front of Adrianna, shivering slightly from the chill but sporting the most foolishly proud grin. Clutched in her mouth, dangling from sharp fangs, was her prize—a small, unsuspecting mouse. Dinner, caught with all the pride of a feline huntress.

Brandy’s triumphant stance faltered as her eyes shifted to Aedri's, noting her friend’s disheveled state. The mouse slipped from her mouth with a wet plop as her expression shifted from giddy pride to immediate concern. Without a second thought, she rushed forward, wrapping Aedri in a tight, comforting embrace. She didn’t need an explanation, didn’t need to hear the details of what had gone wrong in her absence. Instinctively, she knew what Aedri needed: the quiet, unspoken support of a friend who understood without words.
--
Interaction: Moonberry ​

 

[Tellussoil]

Noelle Nichi
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With: Moonberry | Kikimura
abilities:
Language: "Common" ~ <"Beastial">
​

Spoiler: TLDR

• Noelle emerges from the forest while following Brandy
• She looks like she has had a rough time
• Upon seeing Aedrianna goes in to glomp her

​

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

Between the trees and through the bushes a small entity was moving towards the hamlet. Was it lost? Or did it move with intention? The answer is both.
When the blizzard hit earlier the little mermaid got separated from the group. She wandered around trying to find them back. But no luck so far. Somewhere along the way she met up with Brandy. Or did Brandy find her thinking she was some fish to capture? That part of the story is unclear. The point is they met up and had been searching since then. Now that impulsive cat had run off again and Noelle was desperately trying to follow her.

<"BRANDY!? SLOW DOWN!"> The blue-haired girl was shouting as she emerged from the forest. Battered and bruised with a a twig of two sticking out of her hair from walking through the rough of the forest Noelle came to a stop to catch her breath. <"We… we need to stay together remember. Don't just go run off okay"> she said out of breath. Thank god they reached some sort of clearing. As Noelle caught her breath the mermaid looked up to see she was at the edge of a burned-out hamlet. The sight was a bit eerie. But no time to be disturbed. She had to find Brandy. Luckily it didn’t take long to find her companion hugging another person and upon realising who the person was tears started to well up in her eyes <"MISS AEDRI!!!"> Without thinking she rushed over to her friend to, like Brandy was already doing, hug her. <"MissAedriitissogoodtoseeyouagainwhenthesnowstormcameIlosttrackofyouandtheothersandIwasallaloneandcouldn’tfindyouguysanditwasscaryandcoldandtherewerealltheseweirdsoundsandIthinkIsawabearlikewefoughtbeforebutnotthatbigsoIranandthenIfoundBrandyandwestartedtolookforyoubutwedidn’tknowwheretolookandshekeptrunningoffsoIkeptfollowingheranditledtothisplace and now we found you! weehhh!!!"> she stammered while tears were rolling down he cheeks while she was still shivering from the cold. She hadn’t even noticed how much of a broken mess her friend was looking like. She was just happy she found their friend back.

Spoiler: the blurb but with spaces

Miss Aedri it is so good to see you again when the snowstorm came I lost track of you and the others and I was all alone and couldn’t find you guys and it was scary and cold and there were all these weird sounds and I think I saw a bear like we fought before but not that big so I ran and then I found Brandy and we started to look for you but we didn’t know where to look and she kept running off so i kept following her and it led to this place and now we found you!

 

[saxon]

Eris Granstone

B Grade Character

Titles: Human, Priest, Holy Smiter, Hero of The Fae See, Mage, Fae, Spirit of the Battlefield Ally F, Faculty of Celestine F, Ordained, Mundane, Caster

mentions: Tau Moonberry Maxxob Maverick Six Develius Tellussoil Kikimura

Abilities/Actions:

Eris:
B grade Catalyst Staff 4/5 HP


Notes: Combat is over. Alright you chimps, we got a scene and a half and this is complete.
Skips: Elias 3, Kikimura 3, Tellussoil 3, Fantasycat 3, Rcticwolf 2,Develius 2, Moonberry 1.

Martin's appraisal wouldn't give much information other than this fire was caused by a strong magic, though to what end he wasn't able to tell. There were pools of water on the ground near the houses, signaling that many of the ambers were still warm enough to keep the area around them from refreezing and being covered by snow. However that left far more questions as to what exactly was the magic that was used here and how would they be able to stop something like this if it happened again.

Yume and Nigel, along with Eris, moved further into the tower, coming toward the spire of smoke that originated from a fire. However unlike the other fires, this one was different. "Could be the reason why no one is here but, there was one heat signature from an individual here earlier. Though the lack of bodies continues to prove the fact that the creatures are able to raise the dead. Which means any bodies left about will bolster their ranks," Eris pointed out as Nigel stopped on a deep patch of snow, and when he lifted up his boot, there was the sight of crimson snow signaling that there had indeed been a battle here.

Nigel's whistle echoed in the hamlet's remains; however, there was no sound until the ground got closer to the remaining fire, with the rubble of a large building behind it. There was rustling as two of their former companions finally decided to rejoin the group. Before they had shown up Eris turned in the direction fo the sound and let out a small sigh as it was not the creatures from before.

There was a shuffling sound coming from the rubble as a rather old-looking kitsune mane with big, bushy white eyebrows that covered his eyes stumbled out. "So at last someone comes to check on what happened here, well you are too late to save the hamlet but you might be able to save Nan-Gau." The kitsune spoke as there was several scrapes and bruises on his body as well as a dagger that was sticking out of his shoulder. Though the man didn't seem to be affected by such a thing.

 

[Maverick Six]

Martin
Mentions: Tau [Yume] Develius [Cassidy]
Equipped Titles: Abomination, Human (Mundane), Construct, Novice Tinkerer, Isekai

"I think you're right, Yume." Martin begins. "Likely, someone powerful had a fight here. It's isn't just you. This fire is arcane in nature. " It seemed why this town had been destroyed wasn't quite what he expected. The source of the destruction appeared as though it was someone who was trying to purify this place. Though under what context, he could scarcely guess. Perhaps everyone had been turned already. Indeed, it made sense.

"These creatures seem to particularky dislike fire. It seems less likely they'd spread it. Risky and not much gain." A reply to Cassidy.

A rustle in the brush. Martin whipped in the direction of the sound. His fingers curled like a claw, as the air within his palm begins to distort from gravitational. But it appeared that such was not the case. Instead, he saw that two of the beastkin who'd apparently wandered off.

A false alarm. "Oh. It's you two." He lowered his hand, and ceased all notion of casting a spell. There hadn't been any.

A part of him wanted to think carefully about what he should be saying. It was situations like this that he often found himself stepping on egg shells and attempting not to offend anyone. At the same token, despite the fact that much of the previous action appeared to have passed. They still yet had their use.

He made comment to them. ( Tellussoil Kikimura )

"Miss Belmonte has made it through quite the ordeal. It turns out her father was here and among some of the undead. He was felled by her own hand. You would do well to stay by her side." While he could have worded it better, it was succinct summary of all that Aedri had been through. In Miss Belmonte's sorry state, she was less than apt to continue with much of this mission. Conveying this information served to have someone keep an eye on miss Aedrianna and comfort her, so that she could better last and be of use. Even Eris had been caught unawares by these...things.

How ironic it is that it was Yume and Nigel, who comfort Aedrianna.....

With that, he leaves to do with this information as they wished. Whether it be heed or ignore it was ultimately up to them. Someone rose through the rubble. And Martin watched a brief confrontation between Eris and a mysterious figure before he simply spoke up about Nan-Gau. Martin approached, replying to the furry Kitsune.

"We figured as much. Someone had scouted this place from the skies and seen it had been all but destroyed. We came here, hoping to find something which might give us a valuabl clue." Martin's eyes snagged on the knife lodged in the man, as he inquired of more of him.

"Judging by the rubble here, it seems you are the greatest clue we have. A witness to the events which befell this hamlet."

---

Spoiler: Summary

Summary:

• Martin agrees with Yume's assessment.
• Martin gives Brandi and Noelle a harsh summary of what happened to Aedri
• Martin questions the old Kitsune.

 

[Maxxob]

Nigel Belmont

​

Equipped Titles: [Offworlder], [Human], [Big and Small Game Hunter] - Color - #735f0f

saxon

The evidence just kept pilling up. The grim fate of Nan-Li was pretty clear: a battle had happened between the undead creatures and its residents, and the former, upon being killed, joined the ranks of the dead. Nigel couldn't deny that the lack of bodies brought a sense of freshness, which he wasn't a fan of: battlefields should leave their scar upon the land, the fallen bodies being the last stroke which usually completed said masterpiece.

However, as the British man lifted his boot, there was a single, visceral evidence of the battle which had taken place. It was a nice splodge of crimson, that painted the otherwise pure-white snow. It was fitting for sure. "It would indeed be odd for creatures who are sensitive to fire to be using it while in combat, yes? The risks of it going untamed and wild too great. And that prompts the question as to who started this fire. My bet would be on one of the villagers." Throwing the most likely hypothesis that came in his mind with an even tone, Nigel waited.

His wait continued for a few moments longer after he had whistled, paying close attention to see if any creature would end up bursting out of hiding spots, but the only hustling was from two of Aedrianna's 'friends', the runts, who managed to find the way back into the group. The hunter thought it was nothing short of unfortunate that those hungry creatures didn't end up having a meal with them. "Welcome back." The man said to both Brandy and Noelle, before continuing. "But I guess that, when it mattered the most, you two just weren't there." A cruel grin tugged on the corner of his mouth, not really expanding further on what it meant.

The retired soldier's attention shifted towards the old kitsune, who survived whatever had happened in that hamlet. Approaching, in addition to Martin's words, Nigel decided to cut straight to the chase. "What happened here?"

Spoiler: Summary

• Remarked a bit about the situation of the village and the oddness of fire being used
• Remarked how neither Noelle nor Brandy was there for Aedrianna
• Asked the survivor to spill the beans

 

[Tau]

Yume

Fae

saxon (…and whoever else is still with us)​

Yume had pretty much tried everything to ease Aedri’s mind, but there wasn’t much she could do, short of getting so mentally invasive it bordered on the creepy. The lady’s gaze was as cold as the wind, or the white snow under their boots.

The crunching of snow rapidly approaching set Yume on edge, until she finally breathed a sigh of relief, seeing it was Aedri’s friends from before. Part of her wished to complain. Helping grieving people really wasn’t something Yume excelled at, much less someone who was still mostly a stranger. That was the job of her real, lasting friends, who’d managed to get lost and leave her alone at her darkest moment. She almost wanted to tell them as much, but—

—Nigel did. Absolutely savage. And that was Yume thinking that, so it was something special, for sure.

Yume shook her head and added, "Take care of her. She’s okay on the outside, but…" she let their minds fill in the dark remainder of the sentence. For the first time in a while, Yume relaxed ever-so-slightly, knowing these two would be better able to take care of the poor vegetable, leaving her free to focus on the other depressing sights.

"Technically, the bodies could’ve just burned," Yume answered Eris thoughtfully. "If I got attacked and knew I was going to become a zombie, I’d prefer to burn myself up. Or maybe a wandering fire mage knew they were done for and did it for them. I’d prefer to believe that happened, over a whole town full of zombies running around."

As the strange man arrived, Yume gave him a suspicious look. He looked a bit like a zombie, but the whole ‘using real words’ thing was a compelling badge of humanity… kitsuneity? "Uhm… sir, you have a little something… right here…" she pointed out, gesturing to her own shoulder where the dagger was embedded in his.

"Fire," Yume butt in to answer Nigel’s question before the kitsune could. The past several hours had been filled with way too much drama and misery… she had to slowly work up her appetite for snark again. Start small, and build back up over time.

"How long has this place been cooked?" Yume threw her own question into the mix.

 

[Develius]

---

"CURRENTLY DISGUISED AS 'CASSIDY B. FLINT'"

Mentions:
| saxon [Eris] | Maverick Six [Martin] | Maxxob [NIgel] | Maverick Six [Martin] | Tau [Yume] | Moonberry [Aedrianna/Hiruq] |
​

---

"Normal fire, sure." Cassidy turned to Martin and Nigel regarding his stance with fire, "Though ya ever heard of blue fire, son? It's more o' a... hmmm, lichdom and ice-magic adjacent kinda thing. It aint natural. Supposedly they be representin' the coldness of death... Least from what I've seen and heard on de grapevine of mah work anyways." He then turns to look at what appears to be one's standard reddish embers which were plaguing the town ruins, "Though can't say it be responsible for dis mess."

Hearing Nigel's theory on this being caused by one of the villagers seemed reasonable enough as well. Probably the most reasonable even. Even so, there wasn't much he could do now but stand around and inspect the place for further clues, as an older bushy-maned Kitsune would emerge to greet the party. He continued looking around as the others asked questions about what had happened, keeping an ear as to his explanation.

---

Spoiler: Summary

• Tells Martin and Nigel about "blue fire" but reckons it probably wasn't responsible here.
• Listens to Kitsune while looking around for more clues.
• -

 

[Moonberry]

Aedrianna felt herself be embraced though it felt somehow distant. As if it were happening a few seconds after it actually happened. Or to someone else. She let herself be held and managed an empty lift of her lips as she saw her friends again. She was glad to see them. Glad to know they weren't also corpses she'd have to burn. Nigels words struck her, though perhaps they were meant to cause affront to the returning girls. She held Noelles and Brandys hands tightly. Not wanting to let go. And made certain to stick close to Hiruq.

"I'm so glad you two are okay....we're still missing Sorieiel...and Mister Ariko and Kyo....but I think...I need to go home....There are things that I'll need to take care of at the shop...and I'll have to take my fathers place in the upcoming supply maintenance. And...well....There's just a lot that I need to get taken care of. And I doubt I'll be much more help anyhow....that...bit of magic already has me feeling sick and dizzy." She glanced warily over to Eris, then to the Kitsune that approached them. She blinked concerned at his words, taking a hesitatant step forward. "Well...If there are injured I....I can try to help. I have...a few potions." Despite her offer to give aid, her voice was weak and she didn't seem capable of helping anyone.

Tellussoil Kikimura

 

[Kikimura]

(Apologies for low effort post, but I wanted to make sure Brandy replies despite my current condition.)

Brandy hugged Aedri tightly, her fluffy tail rising to wipe her best friends cold cheeks, and caress them softly as they cuddled.
"It's okay Aedri! I-ill stay with you! L-lets take of the supply run together!" She offered, hoping her friend will accept her help in her current predicament, and not push everyone she loves away.

--

Moonberry Tellussoil

 

[saxon]

Eris Granstone

B Grade Character

Titles: Human, Priest, Holy Smiter, Hero of The Fae See, Mage, Fae, Spirit of the Battlefield Ally F, Faculty of Celestine F, Ordained, Mundane, Caster

mentions: Tau Moonberry Maxxob Maverick Six Develius Tellussoil Kikimura

Abilities/Actions:

Eris:
B grade Catalyst Staff 4/5 HP


Notes: Combat is over. Alright you chimps, final round to go we getting a cliff hanger for this part :p
Skips: Elias 3, Kikimura 3, Tellussoil 3, Fantasycat 3, Rcticwolf 2,Develius 2, Moonberry 1.

"Yes, all the bodies, all the fire, yes, yes." The Kitsune responded as he stroked his chin with the arm on the side of the body that didn't have the dagger sticking out of it. There was lack of color in his eyes, almost like a void. "A great storm is coming, something of which the local clan has never seen before. These creatures are ancient, only spoken about in a single legend, they call it the legend of the Iceknife. Though much of it has been lost to time though rumor has it the local clan has one of the few remaining copies of anything written about the legend," He explained stopping at the remaining fire and looking into the flames. "Us resident's put up a fight, I used an ancient scroll that has been kept in the hamlet for generations. However it was only a one time use and burned up upon using it. Some of the undead were killed in the blast but I'm sure a great many of the villagers have refilled their ranks," He explained.

Eris turned her attention toward Yume, "Yes but, what is what we wish to happen and what had happened doesn't always line up, though the fact we haven't seen much in terms of bones means that probably more of the villagers have turned. Which means they are probably on the move, the birds returned after we got away from Nan-Gau. Which probably isn't a good thing now that we look back on it." Eris pointed out as she brought her hand to her chin. There was still much they didn't know and they had only encountered a few of the creatures. This probably means the main group of them is hiding somewhere, but where was the question?

As Aedrianna offered to assist if anyone needed help the old kitsune simply shook his head and pulled out the weapon from him and tossed it off to the side. The weapon was strange in nature, almost ice-like, it didn't look like any metal they had seen. Which itself led to a few questions on what exactly it was. "No, no there is no need," The Kitsune coughed a little and wobbled. "Would be a waste, I can feel the corruption slowly seeping further into my body, you must return to Nan-Gau and quickly before it too late. If they are marching on Nan-Gau they will be more prepared compared to last time," The Kitsune then closed his eyes and fell forward into the fire and burned up almost instantly.

"If what he said is true, we are going to need to hurry and quickly." Eris looked around at the group and tightened her grip on her staff.

 

[Maxxob]

Nigel Belmont

​

Equipped Titles: [Offworlder], [Human], [Big and Small Game Hunter] - Color - #735f0f

saxon Tau

"See? So it wasn't simply fire, but magic fire." Unsure about the practical differences between the two, Nigel corrected Yume, thanks to Cassidy's further information on it. He still wasn't fully used with this place being 'out of the ordinary', so saying 'magic fire' sounded quite silly, but it was exactly what it seemed to be.

Shifting slightly on his feet, the weight now concentrated on his left leg making it sink slightly into the snow, the hunter paid close attention to what the beast, the old kitsune, had to say. It seems he was correct on who had caused the whole fire, the smug grin on his face made it hard to hide the fact of enjoying his hunch being on point.

"Then off to search for this 'clan' and see if they actually have information about this ancient creature?" Nigel's asked, looking straight at Eris. "Or back to Nan-Gau to face the opposition without proper intelligence?" There were two options which the group could take, each one having its share of dangers. Sometimes, the lack of information could make a plan crumble, however waiting too long could spell the doom for the place.

And, watching the old beast off himself on the fire, caused the British man to click his tongue in displeasure. His pelt would have been of some use.

Spoiler: Summary

• Corrected Yume to what sort of fire they could be dealing with
• Talked about the two possible paths going forward
• Lamented not getting a kitsune-shaped trophy

 

[Maverick Six]

Martin
Mentions: saxon Tau Develius Moonberry Maxxob
Equipped Titles: Abomination, Human (Mundane), Construct, Novice Tinkerer, Isekai

As the man was soon to begin speaking, Martin would take out a pen and paper.

He looked down dutifully, scribbling on his notebook as he periodically looked up and down at the man. His every word would be dutifully recorded by Martin as he took upon himself to record that last thing which the Kitsune had to offer. At the same time, he kept a particular eye on him as it began to occur to him that the man was infected. He took a slight step back as he continued to jot down his notes.

"A scroll? I see. It all makes sense now. I'm afraid we did encounter a few stragglers. But rest assured. I will bring that which you have said to Nan Gau."

Then there became the elephant in the room. The man was infected. A brief glance was given to Eris and Aedri. While help was offered to him by Aedrianna, it was spurned as being too late. It seemed as though this world was capable of curing cancer, yet some afflictions rest above that of most healers. Even while the man was still alive.

Martin opened his mouth, about to make an offer to end the man's misery himself. But it seemed as though he was intent on doing itself. The man plunged himself into the fire, and he began to immediately burn up into it. The flames flickered before Martin's eyes -- and yet any who looked closely would see no shift in his expression in watching the man end himself.

He turned to Nigel. "Let us return with this intel we have as the man suggests. More information about these "iceknives" might be present there." The snow between Martin's feet crunched as he began to walk back. He looked down at the knife the man had thrown away as he then reached down to pick it up.

"Interesting." With that, he would wrap the knife in some cloth and stored it inside of his trench-coat. From there, he'd start making his way back to Nan Gau, where he'd give it to someone a bit more capable of adequately studying it. He'd turn that in, along with the man's last words so that it could be known exactly.

From what it appeared, he'd have his work cut out for him on that front.

---

Spoiler: Summary

Summary: Martin does the following....

• Records what the man says
• Picks up the Knife
• Replies to nNigel, suggesting everyone return to Nan-Gau like the Fox said.
• Starts making his way back (Leaves the RP)

 

[Develius]

---

"CURRENTLY DISGUISED AS 'CASSIDY B. FLINT'"

Mentions:
| saxon [Eris] | Maverick Six [Martin] | Maxxob [Nigel] | Maverick Six [Martin] | Tau [Yume] | Moonberry [Aedrianna/Hiruq] |
​

---

This "Legend of the Iceknife"... That's a new one. Seemed to certainly fit the vibe what they'd encountered with the ice undead zombies. Seeing the old kitsune at death's door, with those very ice daggers spearing into him like a pincushion, was a rather sad sight... but his death wouldn't be in vain. Also it appeared Cassidy was half-right about the fire. It was magical, based on the scroll, but it wasn't blue or based on any lich or skeletal entity. It was merely the last ditch effort to save their town from the undead menace.

And it only worked... partially.

Now they were faced with two choices. Either they could continue on to find the culprit of the ice daggers; or they return to Nan-Gau with the info. It appeared they were considered the former... something which Cassidy couldn't blame them for. "Agreed." Cassidy added as he ignited another smoke, "We oughta return with his damning info. Lez see what the folks back home hafta say 'bout this."

With one last huff of his cigarette, the gunslinger flicked it towards the slushed ground before putting it out with his boot. He'd then begin to head back with the others back to Nan Gau... though he was still decisive on whether or not he wanted to stay with the group or leave while he still could. Jebidiah was no doubt at risk of being caught; with the likelihood of being killed or grievously shunned being potentially high as a monster. Then again, he proved his worth by defending the party members from that ice zombie ambush... perhaps they could be okay with him, if not considerably wary.

He'll make the final call by the time they make it back... though should he depart, he would do so stealthily as if he was never there to begin with...

---

Spoiler: Summary

• Listens to the Kitsune and overall conversation.
• Agrees to head back to Nan-Gau
• Leaves the scene [Exits RP].
• Cliffhanger whether or not he stays in RP or not...

 

[Tau]

Yume

Fae

saxon Maxxob Maverick Six Develius​

"Iceknife…?" Yume tilted her head, eyes wandering over to the knife that clearly fit the description perfectly. In her experience, most people didn’t just leave legendary things still stuck in the shoulders of half-turned zombies, so maybe it was one of many? "Do you know the clan’s n— OH MY GOSH, STOP!!"

Yume tried to rush forward and pull the man out, but she was way too far to make a difference. She was left with ashes, as the flash paper man went up in flames. "… What is wrong with you!? We have a fae hero priestess that could’ve saved you, you stupid man!" she shouted at the unresponsive ashes, throwing Eris a look.

Truthfully, she sort of knew he’d been beyond Eris’s abilities, given how ‘not normal’ the guy had appeared, but… "How dare he just give up like that!" Yume complained, visibly irked by the lack of an attempt. "If I ever became a half-zombie, I’d try everything to get back to normal! No way I’d just accept it!" she foreshadowed.

Eventually, Yume simmered down like the embers surrounding her, everyone discussing plans for what to do next. She found herself staring off into the ruins of what once were doubtlessly beautiful, comfy building. The cold wind provided a chilly contrast to the warmth of the fire on the other side of her body.

"I wonder what kind of memories were lost with this place and its people," she murmured, more to herself than anyone else, though she offered Martin a meaningful glance. "I guess with enough time and a hot enough fire, anything can inherit my curse. That’s really sad to think about…"

After a long pause, Yume approached Martin, staring up into his eyes.

Spoiler: Telepathy @ Martin

"I don’t think Aedrianna’s well enough to be on her own, and her friends seem unreliable, so I plan on following her. Maybe I just feel bad about adding the snowball to her trauma, but I want to make sure she’s okay. I guess I kind of like her, even if she’s a bit stuffy~"

Yume winked.

"When we meet again, you’ll probably have forgotten all about me, but I think if anyone has a chance at remembering me, it’s you. I hope you can do it again, because I’ll never forget the first one who remembered me!"

Offering Martin a warm smile, Yume headed off, discrete trailing after Aedrianna…

Actions

• Memory Sink (D) | Stealth D, Telepathy F
  Yume exits public view and attempts to erase any memory of her existence from those in conversation range. Memories of Yume struggle to stick like normal. Where strong minds prevail, the average person may forget her in the time it takes her to get a cup of water.

 

[saxon]

Eris Granstone

B Grade Character

Titles: Human, Priest, Holy Smiter, Hero of The Fae See, Mage, Fae, Spirit of the Battlefield Ally F, Faculty of Celestine F, Ordained, Mundane, Caster

mentions: Tau Moonberry Maxxob Maverick Six Develius Tellussoil Kikimura

Abilities/Actions:

Eris:
B grade Catalyst Staff 4/5 HP


Notes: Combat is over. Alright you chimps, as promised a cliff hanger!
Skips: Elias 3, Kikimura 3, Tellussoil 3, Fantasycat 3, Rcticwolf 2,Develius 2, Moonberry 2.

Outro:

"Well Nigel, we already know a member of the local ruling clan, the Hime-sama from Nan Gau is a member of the clan. So we won't have to do much searching unless she is going missing," Eris pointed out as she redirected her attention to the fire that was now slowly starting to go out. As if the man was the one keeping the flames going while he was alive. But now that he was gone, that left the question of what kind of power had been unleashed here and, more importantly, what exactly were these things.

When Martin reached to pick up the blade, he noticed there was an intense cold sensation, almost as if the blade was made out of ice that was strong enough to be forged out of ice of some kind. The longer he held the blade, the more he could feel the coldness going up his arm. When he wrapped the blade in a cloth, the cold sensation stopped; however, the cold lingered for several minutes before it disappeared.

As Yume mentioned to her healing ability Eris simply shook her head, "I may be strong but, even I have yet to grasp the ability to reverse and undead nature. I can bring people back from the brink of death or return them to life if they have been dead only a short time and the body is still viable. But as of right now I couldn't have reversed the undead state. Better one go out on their own terms," Eris concluded as she approached the fire and said a silent prayer.

(Queue outro)

Eris simply nodded at Cassidiy's suggestion. Then the scene started to get smaller and smaller as the view of the ground eventually became as white as the snow and then faded to black.

 

[Tellussoil]

Noelle Nichi
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With: Moonberry | Kikimura | Maverick Six | Maxxob
abilities:
Soothing melody - Magic E, Performance E, Healing F, Range F - a soothing song that has a minor cure effect on the target - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown
Language: "Common" ~ <"Beastial">
​

Spoiler: TLDR

• Noelle worries about Aedriana
• Glares murderously at Nigel
• started to play a mending song hoping to mend Aedrianna's broken mind

​

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

Something was not right. Although their happy reunion Noelle just knew something was wrong with Aedrianna [Empathy F]. She wasn’t as cheerful as she usually was. What had happened to her friend when they were separated to break the girl’s spirit? Perchance Aedrianna would shed light on that when she felt ready.
But that was not going to happen sadly for that heartless construct Martin had to be so insensitive and give a quick rundown of what happened. How Aedri’s father was among the undead they fought earlier. Noelle should have been angry with the construct for that if it weren’t something she would expect from a construct. And besides. Aedri was more important than voicing her biased opinion about constructs at this moment.

As Aedrianna held onto Noelle’s hand the mermaid softly squeezed it to reassure her friend. <"No need to worry about the others. They are not weak. They will find their way I’m sure of it"> she said regarding the others of their friend group who have disappeared trying to comfort Aedri. However, there was no way for sure.
Then there was that despicable hunter creep. He couldn’t say anything positive, could he? Trying to guilt trip her and Brandy. Noelle just turned her head to directly glare at the man. Her ears were flat against the side of her head, eyes wide open with pupils slightly shirked and an unsettling grin on her lips. "Did.. Did you allow this to happen to Miss Aedri? You creep!?" she said. Her free hand was moving towards her instrument while her other hand started to squeeze Aedriana’s hand.

When in the face of danger the beast has but two options. Fight or flight. Nigel was dangerous in the eyes of the mermaid and in the presence of her friends, Noelle was going to protect them from this danger.
Her fury subsided when the old kitsune made his presence known and everyone, including Nigel, turned their focus on the man. People started to question the man about what had happened. An understandable train of thought. Aedriana found the strength to get up and walk over to the rest of the group to offer healing. Although if she was still in the right state of mind to be of any help begs to differ. "Aedri…" Noelle said concerned. Aedriana should not push herself. But at the same time would it be just to deny her her willingness to help? The mermaid knew she would do the same if she was in her shoes. Always seeking to help the people in need.

Noelle didn’t get anything that the kitsune said as she was more concerned with Aedriana. So when the fox man suddenly decided to become one with the ashes it came as a bit as a shock to the little mermaid. It was a sad thing to see someone giving up like that. And it was impossible to truly understand what the man had thought. No one of them could. Memories of the wind were all that was left of this hamlet. Noelle closed her eyes and prayed silently. Although praying was not the right word. She hoped that the man had found peace wherever his soul may be.

Opening her eyes, Noelle remembered what she wanted to do. Her gaze turned once again to Aedriana. It hurts to see her like that. " Aedri… I’m… I’m sorry. Sorry, we couldn’t be there when you needed us most" Noelle looked saddened <" And although there is no way the pain you feel can go away… I… I hope I can alleviate some of it">
She nodded towards Brandy. Saying without words to prepare to take care of Aedianna. <"Please let this be helpful"> With that said Noelle took her instrument in hand and started playing. A beautiful, magical song. [Soothin melody] A ballad intended to soothe the mind of its target, the pain of a loss as Aedriana had suffered is hard to heal. If it is even possible at all. But with this song, Noelle hoped to give her friend some peace of mind. Enough so she could make the trek home.