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Active [Taeko - The Republic] Many Hands Make Light Work

Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi | Okami
Maverick Six Maverick Six | Vincent
TheTimePiece TheTimePiece | Yukan
Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread | Rei
LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman | Mathias
SixSense SixSense | Kota
Elvario Elvario | Tomomi

The Shrine – Yukan, Mathias, Himiko, and the Panda Priest

The tension in the shrine courtyard lingers like a physical presence. The Panda Priest stares down Yukan and Mathias with an unrelenting glare, his black-and-white fur bristling despite Mathias’ attempts at a respectful bow.

Panda Priest’s Scornful Reply


Panda Priest
Panda Priest.jpg

When Mathias raises his hands in a stiff bow, the priest’s lips curl in a faint sneer—though his reaction is at least slightly mollified by the gesture of humility. He speaks in Common, his Beastial accent still coloring each word with a low rumble:

Panda Priest: “You claim ignorance, human. That is no sin—but speak more with actions than with steel if you wish to keep my good graces.”

He slams the butt of his staff on the stone floor, causing the talismans to clink with an ominous resonance.

Panda Priest: “I have already given my challenge—one I directed at the tanuki who would earn my aid. If you truly stand by his side, do so with honor. If not, turn and leave.”

He then shifts his piercing gaze to Himiko, his voice steeped in impatience:

Panda Priest (pointing the staff at her): “As for you, fox-woman… you are not part of this trial. If you follow them, you risk angering the spirit, or worse, my own wrath. Return to where you came from. Your presence is not required.”

Himiko
Himiko1.png


Himiko flinches at the priest’s tone, her hands tightening around the hem of her sleeve. She looks to Yukan and Mathias with concern but nods in reluctant obedience. She bows slightly to Yukan:

Himiko (quietly): “May luck favor you both. I-I’ll be waiting in Taeko with the villagers… in case you need help afterward.”

Departing the Shrine

With that, the priest waves his staff, sending a gust of cold wind that nudges Himiko back a few steps—his way of emphasizing she must leave. He says nothing more and simply points toward a winding forest path to the east, waiting for Yukan and Mathias to begin their journey.


The Path to the Corrupted Cave

Yukan and Mathias depart from the shrine, following an old, barely visible footpath through thick brush. Ancient stone markers, worn smooth by time and moss, guide them deeper into the eastern woods. Eventually, they reach a clearing where a massive, gnarled tree towers over them—its roots tangling across the ground like serpents. Beneath these roots yawns a jagged cave entrance.

A faint, eerie glow emanates from within—wisps of blue and green luminescence flicker along the damp walls. Stalactites above and stalagmites below frame a narrow corridor that seems to pulse with unnatural light every few seconds. The air is cool, and a distant hum resonates in the darkness, neither wholly natural nor entirely malevolent—but undoubtedly unsettling.

Here, at the threshold of the cave, the next stage of the Panda Priest’s trial lies waiting. Beyond the craggy entrance, the corridor extends into a deeper chamber shrouded in that same bioluminescent glow, granting just enough visibility to navigate without a torch.

The question now: Will they press on, or devise a strategy before entering? The cave awaits.


The Training Grounds – Okami, Kota, and the Villagers

The morning sun climbs higher, beads of sweat forming on brows as Taeko’s villagers persevere through demanding drills. Okami and Kota continue to bark commands—“FRONT!” “BACK!”—the villagers stumbling and recovering in a chorus of wooden practice weapons clacking against each other.
  • Badger Villager
    • He trudges forward and back in response to Okami’s calls. Despite his fatigue, there’s renewed determination in his eyes.
    • Badger Villager (panting, but resolute): “I can feel…my arms burning. But maybe that’s a good sign, yeah?” He glances at Kota sheepishly. “As a farmer, I’ve known pain. But this time, it feels like... progress.”
  • Fox Boy
    • Now testing short combos, he gets excited whenever he manages a fluid transition between strikes.
    • Fox Boy (voice trembling with excitement): “Did… did you see that, Kota? I didn’t fall over this time!” He trips a moment later, but quickly scrambles upright, a grin showing even as he winces. “S-sorry! I’ll do better!”
  • Older Goat Woman
    • Thumps her staff into the ground repeatedly in a rhythmic pattern, trying to get a handle on her stance.
    • Older Goat Woman (muttering like a mantra): “One step, brace, strike… One step, brace, strike…” She looks to Okami for confirmation: “If the cultists come back… I’ll stand my ground. My grandchildren will see me strong.”
  • Young Raccoon Girl
    • Practicing near the goat woman, she attempts a wide slash that nearly spins her around. Giggling, she looks from Okami to Kota for pointers.
    • Young Raccoon Girl (bright-eyed): “Is it okay if my stance is low, like this? I’m really small, but maybe it’ll help me be stable?”

A Moment of Comradery​

As the villagers pause for a brief water break, there’s a spontaneous, encouraging applause among them. They seem to be forging a sense of unity and pride under Okami’s and Kota’s watchful eyes.

  • A shy rabbit-beastkin who’s barely spoken up all morning tentatively approaches the instructors.
    Rabbit Villager (quietly): “Thank you… for doing this. Even if we’re still clumsy, it feels good to fight for ourselves.”
The break ends quickly; Okami and Kota might push them back into formation, or deliver a short pep talk to keep spirits high. Regardless, each villager’s eyes gleam with a mix of nervousness and determination as the drilling continues.


Neco-Arc’s Sudden Disappearance

Elder Yoshiro
Yoshiro2.jpg

Yoshiro would smile slightly, as much as his wrinkled face allowed, nodding briefly to Tomomi.
Elder Yoshiro: "I'm not sure about the young and vibrant part, but I appreciate your words." Chuckling to himself, and totally unaware of Tomomi's true intention behind her words, he continued. "It is a pleasure to meet you too, young lady." He says, still stroking his beard.

Neco-Arc’s Exit


Neco-Arc
La Creatura 3.jpg

Shortly after bounding off with Rei and Tomomi, Neco-Arc stops dead in her tracks in the middle of the village’s main street. She holds up a tiny paw.

Neco-Arc (dramatic gasp): “Wait! I forgot something at the training yard, somewhere!”

Without further explanation, she darts around a corner and vanishes behind a stack of empty crates. A few seconds later, she can be heard from behind the crates, babbling about “budget constraints,” “wardrobe changes,” and “cue the leather jacket!”

Neco-Arc’s Return

Just when Tomomi (aka “Steve Irwin”) and Rei might think Neco-Arc is lost for good, she reappears in full leather get-up reminiscent of a post-apocalyptic biker hero—complete with oversized spiky shoulder pads (clearly cobbled together from random scrap) and fingerless gloves. She stands tall (as tall as a catlike creature can) before them, arms folded.

Neco-Arc (in a hilariously deep voice): Omae wa mou… meown-deiru. That’s right, folks—my fists are now weapons of justice!” She points two stubby fingers at the sky and lets out a triumphant cackle.

A passing villager carrying groceries nearly drops their bundle in shock.

Random Villager (perplexed whisper): “What in the world…?”

Rei and Tomomi’s (and Neco-Arc’s) Departure

Rei and Tomomi gather their bearings amid the spectacle. As Elder Yoshiro advises them that Yukan and Mathias headed east to the shrine, Neco-Arc strides forward, still posing like a wandering martial artist from a pulp novel.

Neco-Arc (flexing imaginary muscles): “Nya-hahaha! To the eastern hills, then. Let us ride—er, walk—into the setting sun! The boss man and that human shan’t escape my righteous fists… or your, uh, ‘urgent’ business.”

Any confusion or double-takes are steamrolled by Neco-Arc’s sheer force of absurdity. Whether Tomomi and Rei roll their eyes or play along, the tiny catlike enigma seems determined to accompany them.

Despite the wild theatrics, they manage to follow a modest forest path leading away from Taeko, presumably aiming to find Yukan and Mathias at the shrine.

Strange Hustling​

Not long into their journey, rustling noises start emanating from the thicket just off the path. Leaves shiver, and a low grunt or hiss can be heard, though it’s not immediately clear what lurks beyond the foliage.

Neco-Arc (dramatic whisper, dropping the strange act for a moment): “Nya… that definitely wasn’t me! Something’s out there.”

Vincent and the Cat-Woman at the Watch Tower​

High atop Taeko’s watch tower, the newly hung bell glints in the sun as Vincent gives it a test ring. The DING DING resonates across the village.

The Cat-Woman’s Admission​

The cat-woman flattens her ears at the sound, partly in surprise at how loud it is. When Vincent inquires about lumber and materials, she perks up a little, eager to be helpful:

Cat-Woman (pointing eastward): “We… well, we’ve got a small lumber yard on the edge of the village, near the riverbend. A few of our older logs might be too warped for building, but the fresher stacks should be good. The local woodworkers said they’d start hauling them this afternoon, I think.”

She straightens her posture, as if ready to redeem herself after the earlier awkwardness.

Cat-Woman: “If you need me to gather a few strong arms, I-I can do that. Maybe even call on my… uh, friend, if he’s not too busy. I doubt we’ll have another private moment with the watch tower’s construction anyway.”

A faint blush colors her cheeks at the memory, but she pushes through it.

Opening Up​

Encouraged by Vincent’s laid-back demeanor, she hesitates, then blurts out:

Cat-Woman (wincing slightly): “It’s not just that we were slacking off. We’ve been trying to figure out if we should… well, if we should leave Taeko for a while. My friend got a scouting offer with a bigger settlement, somewhere safer. But after what you and the others have done, maybe we can protect Taeko ourselves.”

She clutches her hands together, eyes reflecting a mixture of anxiety and hope:

Cat-Woman: “I-I’m torn, honestly. I love my home, but I’m scared. If more cultists or bandits come… we could lose everything. The fence, the watch tower… it helps, but do you really think we can hold this place if another big threat shows up?”
 
Tomomi Koyake

YN9ZboV.png

From: Novel AI
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob | Rei Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread | Kota SixSense SixSense

Rei might've chosen her words a little too freely there, as Tomomi smiled when Rei told her 'treat me as whatever you like'. She was about to ask if that'd include treating her like her adorable little servant, but Tomomi bit her tongue. For one, it might be too truthful. For two, she did want to actually try to not make enemies out of everyone here and this person was closest to not being one.

“You've got the least adorable tail and ears that I've ever seen regardless of what you are.” She'd compliment Rei instead, figuring Rei had caught up enough to get the compliment by now.

On the topic of Rei catching on, it seemed she was ready to play a game of 'figure out the truth' which Tomomi was excited for. She figured she'd actually put in some effort to go through things a bit more methodical, this time around. She'd summarize her statements truthfully as well.

“Second, I most definitely met a demon.” That should exclude the idea she ever met one.

“Fifth, I most definitely was blessed.” That should confirm she was cursed.

“Eight, there was never any involvement of any deities, minor or not, leading up to my current situation.” That should also explain it wasn't an angel, but a deity. Well, a minor one, but still.

Seeing how they were getting a bit more serious anyhow. “Third, I am most definitely unrelated to Yukan.” She might as well confess she was related to him.

If they were going like this, either way... “One-hundred-and-ninth, I am not the least bit concerned about the impression I made on your two allies.” She did hope they would come to understand eventually. It wasn't nice to be hated, after all, especially not by what might become your future allies.

“First of all, I believe I'd wish to become your enemy.” She'd state with a smile. It'd been a while since she'd made a friend, after all.

That should give them a bit more familiarly, right? “Before I forget, I should state that I am utterly ungrateful for the fact you're willing to figure me out.” She'd state, with a genuine smile in gratitude. The smile alone, for that matter, was genuine enough to make her throat itch and make her feel like she was in dangerous territory.

Thankfully, Neco-Arc allowed for her to lie again. “I know exactly what you mean!” She'd call out when the cat-like-thing called out something about omawamou... stuff. She had no clue what it was going on about. “May your fists bring justice upon all the evil in the world, oh great one.” She'd reply to Neco-Arc. It seemed going along with fake antics was enough of a lie to work, luckily enough.

“Do not question the noble beast.” She'd call out to the villager that passed them. “For I have already fully comprehended it myself.” She'd nod. Still having no clue what was up with the weird and random thing.

“Please, don't mention anything regrading 'that human' to me.” She'd state, upon hearing Neco-Arc mention 'that human' in a way that made her rather curious regarding what the cat-like-thing was on about. “For whom this lord Yukan associates with matters not to me.” She'd state again, being really curious now.

“We shall ride into the sunrise.” She'd confirm to the cat-like-thing next. Rolling her eyes wasn't her style. At the end of the day, most people would be rollying their eyes at her instead.

Upon hearing the rustling, she halted. Preparing to cast [Animate] to create golems from the soil beneath her feet. “Must've been he wind.” She'd state, on high alert. In fact, deciding to play it safe for real, she would use [Animate] to try get a small and simple dirt construct created from a nearby piled of dirt (digging some up herself if needed).

Animate – Animate F – Turns any unanchored non-magical object or pile into a Construct that follows basic commands. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown

After which she'd command it. “Don't go investigate that noise.” Oh right. She was pretty doomed, wasn't she? Sighing, she'd look at Rei. “I'd hate it if you were to pick it up and chug it into those bushes.” At the very least, the constructs should defend themselves without instructions, when attacked, should such a thing occur.
 


Vincent
Interaction: Maxxob Maxxob
Equipped Titles: Human [Mundane], Novice Tinkerer, Novice Blacksmith, Isekai, Mechanic
Language Key: Common | %Analog% |

full

The Tower



Around


"Sweet. Yeah. Grabbing your friend to help out would be nice. Need all the hands we can get." He said. "And maybe then there'll be some time after. Do have breaks after all. And well, I got no interest in holding you all for any longer then you are working." He hated the concept of doing things just for the sake of looking productive. When the job was done, it would be done.

Scratch scratch.

Vince ran his through his brown hair, scratching it a bit as he contemplated the things brought up to him. It was a very serious question.

"To be honest, I don't know if I'd fault either choice in the end." Vince said, though there was a displeasure in being indecisive. It didn't sit right with him to not give her an answer. But soon, he'd explain his thoughts.

"I think this place has a shot. And it isn't just wishful thinking. The group who showed up helped us all out in that cave for sure. And that thing we caught didn't seem intent on fighting all of you at once. Maybe you'll need some help from the guild again. But I think you can handle a lot of what comes your way. Maybe even one of those hooded dudes if they come teleporting in again. Didn't seem to wanna come out unless they saw what looked like easy prey." He said with a shrug. Thoughts swirled around his head about how before, he was nothing but an ordinary mechanic who liked to work on cars.

"Give out medicine. Build stuff. Repair things. Or fight. There are lotta ways to help out if you got the will for it. Farmers can be fighters. Hell, farmers make better warriors n' such then a lotta pencil pushers. Hell, I wasn't raised to be some soldier or warrior." He thought about the others and how he barely even understood what it was they were doing and how he could only support them.

"The real reason why I say you probably ought to stay is if you love this place and think it treats you well...then stay n' defend something you love." He said, his answer given when he considered her words. If she hadn't loved this place or been treated well by it, his answer might have been different in another world.

Currently, it seems most productive to get started on that first. The fact that the watch tower was here and that there was a bell on it was enough for him. Parts of it could likely still be worked on, but the focus was oriented toward getting at least started on the wall. He'd go down to do that, but not before saying one last thing.

Patting the cat-woman's shoulder for a moment and giving it a gentle squeeze, he spoke.

"Why don't we get movin', eh? By the way, what's your name? You can call me Vince."

Actions: 2/3

HP: 2/2 (E - Grade Vitality)
Armor: 1/1 (F - Grade Heavy)

1. Offer the cat woman his perspective
2. Move to the lumberyard to get started on staging supplies.
3.

Cooldowns:
Vince
F - 0 Post Remaining
E - 0 Post Remaining
D - 0 Post Remaining

Lucky Charges: 2/2

Passives:
None.
 
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Xy8IxXR.jpeg

Kota
Titles: Fae, Beastman (Mundane), Kitsune, Isekai, Delver, Striker, Floating Fox, Republic Adventurer E, Floating Fox, Striker, Champion of Holy Water
Character Sheet
Mentions: Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi Maxxob Maxxob

The fox would reply to the badger's sheepish grin with confidence, “If it’s burning it means you’re on the right track.” He smiled, good they seemed to be understanding now. He would return his gaze towards the fox boy who also stumbled, “It’s fine when you Fail to get back up and go again!” He smiled ecstatic with all the progress going on.

Seeing the older Goat-Woman’s level of focus when it came to learning the staff was quite the sight to see, she wasn’t as spry as the others but her attentiveness had to be the highest among the batch.

“I’d hate to be your enemy” he joked, placing a head on her shoulder, his gaze would then turn towards the smaller Raccoon girl. The kitsune would fold his arms with a warm chuckle, "A low stance will work for you, like you said, as long as you are stable." He'd move closer and ruffle the girl's head with his hand, "Just because you are smaller than everyone else doesn't mean that you aren't just as mighty. Strength and size share no correlation." Kota tilted his head, signaling Okami's size, she wasn't the largest physically, but she was a real monster on the battlefield. She went by wolf for a reason. "Focus on what you can change instead of what you can't." Kota made sure to ruffle her fur up, playfully before turning towards his comrade. The topic of the last conversation popped back into his head.

"I trust you.

he'd scratch the back of his head, cringing slightly as he recalled how he had acted back then when they faced Luisa. He was brash and irrational, it was truly a sight for sore eye. "Sorry for lashing out at you back in the cave. It was rude of me. Hope we can push that embarrassing memory past us." he tried to joke with her, surprised that he even managed to get a laugh and a smile out of the woman earlier.

"Tell me something, back in the cave, you said something that bothered me, do you still only see yourself as just a warrior and a blade? You said that's all you ever were and that it is all you care to be." It bothered him a bit then, and it did now. He felt like she was a being a bit near-sighted, putting herself in a box. It felt like a rough existence. "You're as tough as they come, and your swordsmanship is a work of art. I doubt you're going to kick the bucket anytime soon, even if we meet that pink woman on the battlefield again.” He’d pause for a moment, as the feeling of being pinned to ground sent a cold chill through his body. He’d refocus quickly, “If you had to hang up your blade one day, what would you want to do besides this? Do you have some secret hobby like blacksmithing or baking?" he folded his arms awaiting her response.
 
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Rei Unagishi

Rei chuckled as she watch Neco Arc doing her usual antic, she didn't actually understand like half of the things the beastkin was saying, but seeing her be silly was already enough for Rei. She's already used to just go with the flow, like water, that was one of the very first thing her father teached her.

"Well, thank you. Me and my siblings inherited it from my grandfather. I tried to take a good care of it." Rei patted her own tail as she accepted the compliment. Her tail wasn't the expressive type, it just hangs there with minimal movement unlike a cat or a dog's tail so most people usually just ignore it. It's nice to have it acknowledged every once in a while.

Other than the compliment, the tanuki seemed eager to share more as she tried to explain her situation better. Rei tried to focus on her words so she could catch of what she's trying to say. It took her a few seconds, but she tried to summarize what she could catch from the explanation.

"So, Ms. Irwin. You are boss Yukan's relative who got cursed by a demon, got it. That must be an inconvenient condition for you. Of course I can be your friend so don't hesitate to talk to me." Rei nodded sympathetically at Tomomi's story, and then stroke her head.

"Also I never knew boss' family name is Irwin. Yukan Irwin is an interesting combination for sure." Rei nodded thoughtfully at herself, as if she just figured a piece of a puzzle. "Ah, don't worry much about the impression, I'm sure boss Yukan would be happy to help with it. The wolf and the kitsune seemed like they already knew boss Yukan for a while and would listen to him."

When there's a sudden rustle from nearby bushes, Rei wasn't too bothered with it. Thinking it was likely some wild dog or snake passing by, but since Tomomi seemed to be wary of it she decided to follow along. She picked up the moving dirt golem, bouncing it several times on her hand before she tossed it towards the bushes. Not only that, she also immediately dashed forward and carefully slashed only the bushes to reveal what or who was hiding behind it.

Action:
1) Toss the animated dirt to the bush
2) Rush forward and cut the thicket - Fighting Style (sword) F, Selective F, Fast F, Perk: Agile - Rei dash forward and cut only the foliage with one swift motion - 1 action - Grade F - 0 post cooldown

Maxxob Maxxob Elvario Elvario
 
Yukan Koyake
Maxxob Maxxob LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman

Yukan hadn't been necessarily thrilled how the panda priest semi-threatened Himiko with his serious words, but he was aware that he was forewarning her in a way that there would be problems if she decided to come. It was less of a threat and more of a warning that she was likely to get herself killed if she came, not that Yukan would have been very comfortable with her coming to begin with, as far as he knew she didn't really have any skills which would be useful for the combat trials that were to come. Thankfully it looked like Mathias had smarted up some and at least attempted a bow, surprisingly it looked like he was going to come along and assist anyway despite the warnings which with Yukan had provided.

He gave a bit of a bow toward Himiko. "Thank you for your good wishes and your desire to help, I intend to come back successful, if everything goes as planned, then there should be more opportunities for you to assist when we return."

At that he'd look to Mathias and give a nod of confirmation.

"As long as you truly understand what you are getting yourself into, I invite you to prove to me that your words are true, and that my initial assessment has been made in error." Yukan spoke, neutrally on the matter, however he was somewhat intrigued that Mathias decided to come along regardless, hopefully he'd show himself to have a fighting spirit with conviction after all.
===
Yukan followed the footpath, taking note of the ancient stone markers, making his way through the eastern woods. He decidedly took the lead, making sure he was ahead of Mathias who carried the fire arm, figuring he'd be able to best assist from the back in that sense.

He was curious to see the large tree with the cave entrance below it, but it was a pretty good sign this was the right place, not to mention the faint glow and the wisps, Yukan was more guarded now upon seeing the new area they were going to enter into, an unknown one at that.

As they approved he'd speak up to give a straight forward plan before they entered.

"Mathias, I have the advantage of seeing in the dark much more easily than an average human, in addition my senses are more honed, and given my capacity for close quarters combat, I believe it'd be better for the both of us if I take the front, and you follow at my flank. I'd like you to provide support with your fire arm, against our foe(s), as well as pay attention to our flank if I should not notice danger coming from behind."

"Remember that we need not vanquish this guardian spirit in totality, but we just need to purge the evil from it and retrieve it's binding stone to be successful , so I would ask that you try to act with this goal in mind. I will say be careful there may be trickery and hazards which are not obvious."

"If you have any questions, feel free to speak, but for now I believe we best get a move on. I suggest you follow in my steps, I'll try to be a guide." And with that Yukan moved toward the cave space with his Su-Yari now equipped facing forward, leveraging his Dark Vision + Danger Sense F + Heightened Sense of Smell F
To try to gather some more information about the space.

It'd be far from the first time he'd been in an environment that was semi-other worldly and unsettling for reasons beyond the normative, so Yukan wanted to be ready for anything as he got to work breaching the chamber corridor, and looking around the place cautiously, while he headed toward the chamber.

Actions:
1. Leverage Dark Vision + Danger Sense F + Heightened Sense of Smell F to try to act as a guide of sorts for Mathias, as well as assess the space and any possible threats or assets.
2.Move into the Corridor toward the chamber.
 
The Cave entrance.

He spent most of the time during the walk up in his journal, drawling, sketching. It was a small book with deceptively thin pages, close to bible paper. So far his scribbles had mostly been just scratch drawlings of the local flora and what he could spy of the fauna, as well as a map of the local area and notable land marks. The thing he was working on now though...that was different.

Yukan's speaking drew him out of his own mind though, and with a soft thump he shut the journal and slid it in to a pocket. "Right, weapons check." First was his rifle. It'd give him one shot, and its length meant reloading or using it as a bludgeon was effectively impractical. Still, a primed shot was useful. Electing to keep it slung, he racked the slide on his pistol and kept it at a low ready. For just a moment he felt him self reaching for a carbine that wasn't there, and a pair of NODs that also wasn't there either.

Resigning him self to clearing a tunnel with nothing but a side arm and the good sense of a man he still didn't know fully, he spoke. "No frags, no support, no team to stack and clear. Just your sword, my pistol, and whole lot of fuckin courage." He spoke with sarcastic sigh. "My dad did shit like this in a place called Vietnam. Clearing tunnels like this against the Vietcong. Was not a fun time, from what my Opa told me about it."

Taking place behind Yukan, he placed a hand on the armored pauldron of the Tanuki man's shoulder. "Lead the way, my eyes will adjust, but im still half blind in there." He kept his gun at a low ready. He hoped he wouldn't have to use it, not because of it's potential effectiveness, but because .45 ACP was not a subtle cartridge. This thought caused him to pause and tap Yukan's shoulder. "Just a head's up. If I have to fire this thing it's going to put out one hell of a muzzle flash and a report, and If I have to shoot over your shoulder it's going to fuck your hearing up for a good while. Shouldn't be any permanent damage, but still."

Taking a breath, he spoke again. "Right, on your go."
 

"You'll come to like that pain soon enough," she replied to the badger, "It's evidence that you're actually pushing your body enough to change."

Then she glanced over at the elderly goat woman. Okami chose not to say it, but she very much hoped that that woman wouldn't have to find herself on a battlefield any time soon. Though, if her strength inspired others, then it was more than welcome. She gave her a nod of approval. And, while it was nice to support the people of Taeko as they began a long journey that would never, really, come to an end...

...watching the people begin to inspire and support one another was a far more reassuring.

After all, they were going to have to rely on one another in the end, when all was said and done.

And, when the rabbit strolled up and shared her thoughts, The wolf merely grinned and replied,
"I know."

The Ronin's mind had been keenly focused on the future as Kota's wandered through a not-so-distant past. It's no surprise that, when he began to speak, Okami had no idea what on earth he was talking about. Well, at least not until he began to unravel all the thoughts that had been running through his mind all morning.

"Hmm," Okami thought back to the ambush in the woods where she and her comrades slayed some deformed monster. Then, to the entrance of the cultist's cave where she cleaved two men in half. Then, to the battle within the cavern, itself, where she destroyed even more creatures to help defeat a great foe, "I can't say that anything has changed about how I see myself."

She chuckled, her eyes drifting over to the resting locals as she thought of how best to answer his question.

"And, unless I can make a career out of shogi or drinking, I'm probably going to be keeping The Fang by my side for a very long time. It is... hard for me to imagine a life without a lord. Or a life without an enemy to fight. When all is said and done, there are certain... comforts this life brings that I've never been without. You know them just as well as I do, Kota."

The Ronin felt no need to elaborate on what she meant. There was no man in this world that you can trust more than the man who stands beside you knowing that it may cost him his life. You find them quickly in this life. Them, and the those who pretend to be them. There was no satisfaction greater than walking away from a hard-fought battle that you were certain you would not. And there was no love greater than that of comrades who fought tooth and nail to ensure that they all came home together. But then...

...these were merely her views on the path upon which they both walked.


"I... do not know the answer to your question. Perhaps I don't have one. There are many things I could do, but I can't say that I yearn for any of them."

A brief pause followed. Okami met eyes with Kota once more; a brow slightly raised to mark her curiosity as though she were trying to unveil something written into his expression.

"I remember your expression back then. That look on your face when you spoke of the empire. When you thought I belonged to them. Perhaps The Yukanate provides you with a different form of comfort. So, what of you, then? What would you do if there was no war to be fought for this nation? What do you yearn for in times of peace? Who is Kota without his hands balled into fists?" another brief pause, her expression softening a bit as she continued to study his, "And what would he like to see become of The Orphaned Wolf on the day when The Republic is lead by a better man and she no longer has any use for The Blood-Red Fang?"

Perhaps... that was a question that she would need a little help finding answer for.

Slowly her attention would drift back towards the locals. Okami would take note of the sun's changed position. She kept in mind what their plan was for preparing Taeko for future conflicts, but tying the people up all day wasn't part of that. And, perhaps...

...their conversation had taken a turn best explored without an active audience.


"I know well how eager you all are to continue," she began, her attention fully given to their eager students, "But I think it's about time you all resume your regular duties. In truth, I did not expect to be teaching you all this morning, but this is not the hell of which I promised earlier this morning. That comes at sunset."

An ominous, albeit playful warning. Best not to use up all of their strength now with simple kata. Of course, she would not be governing them alone.

"What say you, Kota? Do you agree?"
 

Xy8IxXR.jpeg

Kota
Titles: Fae, Beastman (Mundane), Kitsune, Isekai, Delver, Striker, Floating Fox, Republic Adventurer E, Floating Fox, Striker, Champion of Holy Water
Character Sheet
Mentions: Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi Maxxob Maxxob

Kota listened attentively to Okami’s reply, his ears upright and staring directly at the wolf with curiosity. He’d figured her mindset wouldn’t change much after that day, she was set in her ways over multiple lifetimes. It would be near impossible to break the thought process.

“I figured as much.” His tails swooshed to the side as she replied with sarcasm that masked her emotions on the matter slightly. There lied… a level of uncertainty? Something that felt rare coming from the wolf.

“I do know them.” He agreed with her, the corner of hia lips curving up at the thought. “But there are also some things we sacrifice. As with any other choices we make in life.” He’d look off to the side as he watched the villagers, the vast age range bringing a concerned look on his eye.

“Yes, the Yukanate does indeed provide me with comfort. Belief that this country can change for the better, that small villages like this won’t be neglected, that my village won’t be neglected…” his brows furrowed in slight annoyance at the thought. “As for what I’d be doing, most likely take part in the development of the next generation. I’d also return to raising and hunting local wild life and tanning their hides for clothing as a hobby. It was a past time that I’d do with both my parents.” Nostalgia filled him as his tails swooshed in delight.

“ As for what I yearn for in times of peace…stability for the people I care about.” A honest smile his face, “I wish to improve their lives, even if it means putting mine in danger.” That’s why he’s here, doing just that. Even in a small village such as Taeko, because it will make a small ripple in the large pond. With enough ripples they can make a wave.

“Kota without his fists balled is someone who is helping his people, hunting for food, collecting hide and doing his part.” The thought warming his body slightly as he felt oddly grounded in himself from the response, it felt…easy.

“As for what I would like to see the orphaned wolf become once that day comes…to be alive, enjoying the fruits of her labor. Seeing that she much more than just a blade.” He smirked, raising his eyebrows seeing if she would contest.

Okami would turn to address the others, calling it quits for the meantime and opting to pick back up once the sun is down. Kota would nod in agreement, they weren’t supposed to be teaching right now.

“I agree, we’ll see you all later for some Real training.” A grin laid on his face. He’d turn back to Okami after the villagers dissipated.

“Who is Okami without the Blood-Red Fang?”
 
Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi | Okami
Maverick Six Maverick Six | Vincent
TheTimePiece TheTimePiece | Yukan
Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread | Rei
LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman | Mathias
SixSense SixSense | Kota
Elvario Elvario | Tomomi

1) The Cave of the Corrupted Guardian – Yukan & Mathias​

A soft, eerie glow emanates from within the limestone walls, faintly illuminating the winding tunnel. Fungus patches pulse with pale, ghostly light, giving the cavern an otherworldly ambience. The quiet drip of water echoes from deeper inside.

Danger Sense & Heightened Smell​

As Yukan steps forward with his Danger Sense F on high alert, faint tingles run through his mind—like stepping onto a stage where something watches from the dark. His Heightened Sense of Smell F picks up a metallic tang in the air, reminiscent of old blood or rusted iron. The deeper they go, the stronger this faint stench becomes, suggesting a ritual or violent confrontation once took place here.

  • At one point, Yukan notices a subtle patch of discolored ground—a shallow pit lined with jagged crystals. His Danger Sense flares momentarily, warning that stepping there might be precarious. A careful detour avoids any potential trap.

Mathias’ Caution​

Trailing closely, Mathias keeps his pistol at the ready, mindful of Yukan’s warning about muzzle flash and echo. The swirling glow of the cave lights distorts shadows, making every stalagmite look like a lurking figure. The hiss of dripping water sets his nerves on edge, but the corridor remains silent.

Distant Whisper?
Perhaps a breath of air… or a faint voice. It’s hard to tell. But the sense that they’re not alone deepens.

Approaching the Inner Chamber​

The tunnel narrows, then opens into a wider passage that slopes downward. The luminescence intensifies, revealing faint markings on the walls—arcane symbols possibly linked to the shrine’s guardian spirit. Yukan’s senses prickle again, hinting that the true threat is somewhere beyond the next bend.

They haven’t yet come face-to-face with the corrupted spirit, but all signs point to a final confrontation deeper within. For now, they press on, the tension thick enough to taste.


2) The Training Grounds – Okami, Kota, and the Villagers​

Sunlight creeps toward midday, the villagers showing clear signs of fatigue but also brimming excitement. Sweat-soaked clothing clings to them, and yet they grin as they practice newly learned stances.

Winding Down​

  • Badger Villager attempts one more front-and-back drill, panting. He bows in gratitude when Okami suggests they break, relief visible.
  • Fox Boy practically collapses onto a log, gulping water like a fish out of stream, though the spark in his eyes suggests he’ll be back at it soon.
  • Older Goat Woman uses her staff as a cane, nodding respectfully to Kota and Okami.
  • Young Raccoon Girl tugs at Kota’s sleeve.
    Young Raccoon Girl (panting): “We’ll really keep going at sunset, right? I-I want to get better.”
Okami’s playful remark about “the real hell” at sunset garners a mix of anxious laughter and determined nods. The villagers disperse to tend to daily chores—farm work, house repairs, or blacksmithing side-jobs—yet they leave with heads held high, hearts beating with newfound courage.


3) Vincent & the Cat-Woman – The Watch Tower to the Lumber Yard​

Down near the watch tower’s base, Vincent and the Cat-Woman finalize the bell installation, the new alarm resonating with a crisp DING in the morning breeze.

The Cat-Woman’s Resolve​

After hearing Vincent’s balanced perspective—encouraging her to stay if she loves her home and is willing to defend it—the cat-woman inhales deeply, as though breathing in renewed determination.

Cat-Woman (bowing slightly): “Thank you... Vincent. My name’s Kiyori, by the way. I’ll gather my friend and see if we can help with the wall. There’s a wagon near the lumber yard, too. We can haul wood faster that way.”

She blushes faintly at the pat on her shoulder, a small smile tugging at her lips. Gesturing for Vincent to follow, Kiyori leads him toward the village edge, where stacks of cut logs sit in neat rows, fresh sawdust scattered around. A couple of older woodworkers—one missing an ear, the other with scars on both forearms—look up as they arrive.

One-Eared Woodworker (raising a brow): “Huh, you the fella who forged that bell? Heard the clang from over here.”

Scarred Woodworker (thumping a log with pride): “We got a few good beams ready. Show us where you want ‘em, and we’ll get hauling.”

With Kiyori’s help and a bit of direction from Vincent, the group can begin loading the wagon. Plans for a defensive fence or partial wall around Taeko slowly inch toward reality.


4) The Eastern Road – Rei, Tomomi (“Steve Irwin”), and Neco-Arc​

Wind ruffles the foliage as the trio (plus Tomomi’s small earth golem, now about four feet tall) tread onward. Neco-Arc’s ridiculous biker leathers squeak with each exaggerated step, still channeling her “popular shōnen” parody.

Sudden Rustling in the Bushes​

  • Tomomi conjures her [Animate F] magic, molding dirt into a stout, roughly humanoid shape. At four feet tall, it stands with clumps of moss for shoulders, little lumps resembling stubby arms, and a blank, earthen face.
  • Neco-Arc squeals with glee and climbs onto the golem’s shoulders as it lumbers forward.

Neco-Arc
Hokuto Neco-Arc.png

Neco-Arc (cackling heroically): “NYAAHAHA! Behold, my mighty steed! We ride at dawn—well, actually it’s midday, but who’s counting?!”

The Ambush Revealed​

At Tomomi’s command not to investigate, the golem ironically lumbers directly toward the suspicious rustling anyway—only to be promptly tossed by Rei as she dashes in a blur of speed. Neco-Arc clings on with a wild “Nyoooom!”

The Bushes practically explode in leaves as:

  1. A burly fox-beastkin in ragged cultist robes, wielding a chipped longsword, parries the golem’s flailing strike. Sparks fly as earthen fists clash against steel.
  2. A slim lynx-beastkin with a twisted staff weaves around Rei’s slash—barely. They raise the staff, splintered runes etched along its length.
Fox Cultist (snarling): “Damn it… We thought we’d slip by with no interference!”

Lynx Cultist (hissing to the Fox): “No matter, we will use them for the rite instead!”

They haven’t attacked yet, but it’s clear the pair is spoiling for a fight. Rei’s swift slash parted the thicket, giving the group a full view of these two cloaked figures. The golem—still with Neco-Arc perched on it—stands between the cultists, bobbing as if braced for a command. Leaves and dust swirl around them in the open path.

Cultists’ Reaction​

  • The fox grips his sword, eyes darting from Rei’s lethal blade to Tomomi’s bizarre earth minion. The presence of Neco-Arc only heightens the scene’s absurdity.
  • The lynx narrows their feline pupils, staff trembling with a faint aura of twisted energy. They look like they’re waiting for a signal or an opening to strike.
The party (Rei, Tomomi, and Neco-Arc) clearly holds the initiative. The question remains—will they be subdued quickly, questioned for information, or forced into a lethal skirmish?
 
Tomomi Koyake

YN9ZboV.png

From: Novel AI
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob | Rei Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread

Tomomi smiled at her compliment being accepted. Finally! Normally she was just making enemies. “It's clear that you don't~” She'd add-on to it, when Rei told her she took good care of it. Honestly, Tomomi herself also spent a whole lot of time on her tail. Mostly due to it poofy fluff being a really easy dust-catcher. Sometimes she felt like she was dusting off the environment just from having her tail brush past it on accident.

It seemed Rei was really close to figuring things out, but she still got some thing wrong. A sigh escaped her lips. Yet, since they were this close already, she didn't wish to give up on it. Not just yet. “Yes, it was a demon.” She'd deny that bit. “It wasn't a deity.” She'd try to make that clear instead. That was the part that Rei still hadn't gotten. As much as the deity had acted like a demon, to her at least, Tomomi had to admit it wasn't all that demonic. “It's actually really convenient.” She'd confirm. Having to lie all the time was rather troublesome. “Clearly it's made me a lot of friends and allies.” She'd state, admitting she'd been rather lonely as a result of this curse.

Another smile followed the first when Rei told her they could be friends. “I hate that a lot.” She'd happily say in gratitude. “I've had many friends lately, as you might expect.” It'd be a fair while since she made friends, even before her condition, for that matter. She should probably stop mentioning she'd been lonely, lest she'd be seen as pathetic.

“He is indeed called Irwin.” She denied. Yukan Irwin? That sounded insane. “A most common name for sure.” She'd add, just to stress that bit.

“That'd be horrible.” She'd sigh. It'd be really nice of Yukan could help her not be on bad terms with Okami and Kota. “I'm glad to hear they'd ignore him. They both seem like bad people.” She hoped Rei was right in that they would actually listen. Getting along with her brother's allies would both be fun and useful. Especially if this was going to be the long-term plan she'd envisioned.

On the topic of actually listening, she was surprised Rei did, as she got her to throw along the golem. Although she dove into the potential danger head-first herself afterwards. “Don't watch out!” She warned the latter's relative recklessness.

“I am counting. Counting on you!” She'd reply Neco-Arc, not expecting much from that one. Thankfully, the truth in that pun hadn't made her vomit out her organs. “They shall not recover from the wrath of the might Neco-Arc!” She would add for good measure, as she highly doubted the thing was going to do something even remotely useful.

Upon seeing and hearing the two cultists, she was a tad concerned. “I love being used for rites.” She'd reply, shocked upon hearing what those two might be up too. “How about we don't talk this out. I know exactly who you are and why you're here.” She'd confront the two. “You have no secrets from me. In fact, I already know enough to stop you with ease.” She'd threaten them with lies. “Although you're both clearly too lovely, adorable and pacifist to fight with.” She would add. All the while she'd use her [Charm]. Even if she might not be able to fight them, she could at least try to confuse and/or distract them.

Charm – Seduction F, Deception F – Attempts to charm someone. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown

As for her golem. “Let's make sure they move from there!” She'd command it. Hopefully it... shove them or keep them in place. Either way would work, she mostly wanted the golem to at least try something.
 

Okami sent the locals a little wave as they departed, then scowled at Kota for a moment as he continued to press the issue.

"Mmm. Pfft." her eyes slowly veered away from him, "I'd be a swordsman looking for a new blade."

All of a sudden, seemingly out of nowhere, the scabbard of The Fang would slam into Okami's thigh loud enough enough for everyone in the area to hear it. The Ronin grunted; glared down at her blade for a moment before she let out a light sigh. Then, she turned back to Kota.

"Fine. If you must have an answer, then I suppose I'd find my way into a role that provides me the same comforts I have serving alongside you. I've no interest in bureaucracy nor the sciences. And I've no sword at my side in this discussion, so I suppose an answer like serving as a guard won't satisfy you will it?" she paused for a moment, then gestured for Kota to follow her as she began to walk through the town, "Well, I've enjoyed the morning far more than I would've expected. If I prove to have a bit of skill with this, I wouldn't mind teaching those who seek knowledge how to defend themselves. Or, perhaps, I find myself on one of those fishing boats; braving the waves alongside my comrades in hopes of returning to my village with a feast. I would consider hunting myself, but I can't say I have much interest in such a solitary profession. Honestly..."

She thought about how far distant the topics of this conversation really were. Their journey alongside Yukan had just begun, and Kota was already bugging her about what she planned to do once it ended. She laughed to herself, it all seemed to silly to her.

"...if we do succeed? Perhaps it would be time for me to settle down and have some pups of my own at that point. I am not a complicated person, Kota. I believe that, if I have comrades by my side to fight for- and who fight for me- then I'll be more than happy to fight whatever battle lies ahead. But, that's just it. I am not convinced that..."

Her words fell silent; as though she were about to say something that she knew she'd regret immediately. After a brief pause, she continued.

"War is all I've known. It was the last thing I knew in my previous life. But worry not for me. I enjoyed every moment of that life. And I enjoy the time I spend with you and Yukan. But, that war began before I came to be, much like Yukan's war. And as you know, I was not there to witness the conclusion of that war. It is difficult to describe what one likes about a world in which they have never lived. But, if it worries you so, dear Kota?"

She turned back to Kota with a fresh smirk on her face.

"Then stay," two words. The best solution she could think to a question for which she had no answer, "Stay, once it's all over. Then you and I can watch The Orphaned Wolf stumble about in that new world together. I'm sure I'll be able to find a suitable answer for you, then. I promise."
 


Vincent
Interaction: Maxxob Maxxob
Equipped Titles: Human [Mundane], Novice Tinkerer, Novice Blacksmith, Isekai, Mechanic
Language Key: Common | %Analog% |

full

Ground Level​



"Nice to meet'cha Kiyori. 'Preciate the help learning what's what around here." There was a risk in all this that she might die protecting. But it was something acknowledged and internalized in his mind. Though he hoped she'd be here if ever he comes back to visit this place.

But his hopes weren't just hopes. With his own hands, he wanted to make them into reality. His desire to make truth in his words was reliant on his actions. And so, too, when she lead him to their lumberyard.

Rust



"Man. You guys look like my kinda folk." He said as he looked around.

Fishing through his jacket for a map of his previously prepared plans -- Vincent whipped it out.

"I'd be kidding you if I said we could fortify everything. All I'm shooting for is the living areas of the town only. No way hell will we be able to protect all your crops. But guard your town? For sure." He said as he took a deep breath and looked at all the lumber they had on hand. He determined for now that it'd be enough. And that later or another day, they might be able to pick.

"Come here." He said, showing them his plans.

And hoping to try to get them all done. He had drawn a schematic of sorts from before. His knowledge acquired from mostly being a general handyman enabled him to come convergently to a conclusion of something many others had done before. A palisade.

"What I'm going for is something like this."

4akopia.jpg

Taeko couldn't have stone walls -- so for now they'd have to settle for whatever wooden ones they could get. It was a favorite structure to erect for armies past as well as for bandits and mercenaries. It seemed something close that a village could draft up.

Simply put, it was a set of wooden stake walls with.

"Tall wall of his stakes that dot all around the town. No further. You see, there's enough space here for you all to stab and shoot through at people trying to climb. At certain spots, we can build perches for people to stand on in wartime. And hopefully, you can stand on top. If it looks menacing, that's cause it's supposed to be."

But the question soon became, just what would they be able to build? Vince had an idea of what it entailed and had spent time in his forge drawing it all up. He'd done something like this before he merely had followed instructions and absorbed some of what had been said, when erecting these structures in his practically apocalyptic world. His knowledge of engineering leant to certain structures though something like a house seemed beyond his abilities to draw up schematics for alone.

"I'll choose which spots. You guys sharpen then ends of any wood you haven't yet and then we'll get this rolling. Oh and we'll need some rope. A lot of it. I'll be getting some of the metallic components to try and reinforce it in certain places. I'll try to make the door the sturdiest thing you've ever damn seen." He took a deep breathe as he continued, going over more technical details and answering questions.

And it would be then that Vince would begin his work on the wall to his specifications. He felt as though he learned a lot from working tirelessly here and that if nothing else, he'd leave out here a better blacksmith then when he came in. Originally when he came into this world, he felt like he wanted to just figure how to make his care. Now? He felt as though he needed to learn all he could to fill in the places others couldn't. There a lot of swords but how many people willing to build were willing to come to a place like this? One where danger could strike at any time? Though he would wander the world, it seemed high time to try to make places better.

The job at the guild had long been done. He could've taken his money and left. At this point, there was only one way to find out what he could do. [Forging a Future]

  • 3 Meters Tall
  • Wooden Spikes all throughout
  • Door Reinforced with metal
  • Perches for people to stand on
  • Space between the walls that can be attacked through

Would he succeed? There was only one way really to find out.



Actions: 3/3

HP: 2/2 (E - Grade Vitality)
Armor: 1/1 (F - Grade Heavy)

1. Move to the lumberyard to get started on staging supplies.
2. Brief group of his plans.
3. Forging a Future - Engineering F, Tinkerer D, Blacksmith D, Athletics F, Lucky F - Vinces tries to construct useful weapons, armor and items in the field. - D Grade - 2 Post cooldown [Build Taeko a wall]

Cooldowns:
Vince
F - 0 Post Remaining
E - 0 Post Remaining
D - 2 Post Remaining

Lucky Charges: 1/2

Passives:
None.
 
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Yukan Koyake

Interactions: Maxxob Maxxob LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman
Yukan heard the human mention something about the human doing a weapon check which was curious but he supposed as one did when they used ranged weapons.

“Frags?..and where is this place called Vietnam?” He’d inquire softly, Yukan could infer that whoever these ‘vietcong’ were they had been enemies.

“If you believe it’d be too risky and detrimental to the both of us to fire then feel free to use your melee in its place if it’s suitable.. Hopefully I’ll be able to handle this spirit and it won’t be necessary even so.”

Thankfully Yukan was glad to hear that he seemed agreeable at least.
Yukan paid attention to the soft eerie glow moving forward, also wondering what exactly was causing it, that was until he noticed the Fungus, he hoped the human would have sense enough not to try harvesting and tasting any of them.. He also heard the water dripping.

While Yukan moved along he thought he might have smelled something like old blood, but it could have also been rusted iron, it was a bit hard to say either way..

His nose twitched and then he spoke up to his new ally, “I’m getting a scent of what may be old blood which is only getting stronger the further we go, so be cautioned..others may have perished here in the past for reasons I cannot be absolutely certain about..”


He spoke softly again, keeping his Su Yari and eyes forward on where they were going.

On the path, Yukan noticed a patch of discolored ground, a shallow pit with jagged crystals upon noticing it he spoke up once again thanks to his danger sense.

“Walk where I walk Mathias, there is a potential hazard on the ground nearby in front of us, stepping on it may cause you injury”


He’d do his best to avoid the Shallow pit with jagged crystals in such a way that hopefully his back up would be able to follow.


Yukan thought he heard the possible distant whisper which made his eyes narrow if albeit briefly.

When they finally got the narrow part of the tunnel, Yukan moved with greater caution, before they got to the wider part seeing the lighting increase, seeing the faint markings on the walls,
While Yukan didn’t know a ton about magic, he did know that symbols looking like that could very well be related to who they were going to find.

“I can sense it..Mathias, our opponent is growing nearer, I want to assure you that no matter what your prior conception was coming to this land ghosts and Spirits are indeed very real..and can be dangerous beings, particularly when one has been corrupted like the one we are facing against, so be ready for anything, trickery..hazards, magic, or even outright violence, all of these are completely within the realm of possibility and I do not want you to be caught off guard by the supernatural, I suggest staying focused on our objective, grounding yourself in it may prove to be helpful..”



Actions: Press onwards toward where sensing final confrontation.
 
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Rei Unagishi

"Ohh...? Another cultists? I thought we already got them for good." Rei eyed the two cultist's robe, she remember slashing them inside the cavern and found out that they were all just skeletons. These two still had their flesh intact, and they didn't just stood there when attacked, which mean they can fight back.

Good. She had been itching for another one. Rushing towards the fox beastkin, Rei raised her sword in a exaggerated manner. A highly telegraphed attack that was meant to let the opponent know that they're gonna start the fight. She would then followed it up with another swing as she tried to pressure the fox beastkin.

Now that she thought about it, was there any beastkin bones among the previous cultists they fought? A lot of beastkin had different skeleton and skull shape compared to human so she should be able to recognize ones if tere's any.

Action:
1) Move and engage the fox cultist - Fighting Style (sword) F, Martial Ethos - Ice God Style F (Initiative: Attack), Penetrating F, Fast F, Perk: Agile - Rei dash up to 40ft and launches a simple but devastating attack that can break through attack and defense - 1 action - Grade F - 0 post cooldown
2) Combo with basic attack
3) Try to recalls about the cultist

BE: 3 (STA) + 2 (EQP) + 1 (ABL) + 1 (CMB) = 7 BE

Maxxob Maxxob Elvario Elvario
 

Xy8IxXR.jpeg

Kota
Titles: Fae, Beastman (Mundane), Kitsune, Isekai, Delver, Striker, Floating Fox, Republic Adventurer E, Floating Fox, Striker, Champion of Holy Water
Character Sheet
Mentions: Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi

Kota would flash a grin at the young raccoon girl, “It’s a promise.” He smirked patting her on the head as she went off to go play before turning back to Okami. Her awkwardness in the conversation providing him an odd level of comfort. Not that he enjoyed seeing her tortured. More that someone cool and confident as her held regular human anxiety when it came to talking about the unknown. She wasn’t just a blade. Not to him at least in this moment.

He’d walk alongside her through town, enjoying the view of the village hard at work. He listened intently as his friend articulated herself, his tail swaying and ears facing fully forward giving his full focus. Allowing Okami the freedom to talk and express her thoughts.

“You know you complain a lot more when it comes to problems you can’t slice in half.” He poked fun at her with a sly grin. “I know you aren’t a complicated person, I was concerned that you were too simple a person.”He chuckled, “But I’m happy I was wrong, I actually like this side of you a lot.” Kota would watch as smaller beast children would run in-between the two of them playing with one another, a grin on his face.

“I’m worried about you because all you know is war, being consumed by it is never good. My elders told me that we often prepare our whole lives for battle but the most difficult fight is the one that comes after. The battle within oneself.” Kota eyes would sharpen as he examined his friend, “You’re right, it is pretty difficult to know what you like, but with anything. You’ll never know if you don’t try.” Kota groaned internally at the sound of himself. He was really beginning to sound just like his masters and it pained him.

“This is just some food for thought, I don’t want to sound like some elder lecturing you on what’s right and what’s wrong. Obviously you know yourself best.” He added in, trying to not be so pushy. “As for sticking around. I plan on it, for every success and shortcoming. To be there assist you and help you find your way when you do stumble because as cool and collected as you are, you will.” He smirked, poking fun at the wolf.

“So it’s a promise, from the both of us to see this through to the end.” His expression more sure, giving a glint of new found. Throughout this exchanged, he gained more respect for her. For giving a true and honest answer not just to him but for herself on a topic that treaded in unknown water.

“On another note, you bringing up the possibility of settling down and having pups of your own was a pleasant surprise. Is raising a family of your own an aspiration you have that conflicts with being a warrior?” Kota added, a sense of curiosity in his voice.
 
The Trial, the Cave.

Bigs nodded in affirmation and did so, stepping in Yukan's foot steps. He kept one hand on Yukan's pauldron, doing his best to not loose him in the dark, while keeping the pistol up and at the ready. He didn't like this, not at all, but was well beyond the point of caring. It had been over a year since he was in the zone, a year since he felt that chin up spine and ice in his veins. In a way, he missed it. Being in a strange land amid strange folk. To work in the dark for those in the light.

Gods did he miss this., this rush, the knowledge that he had to kill or be killed. He just wished he had better gear for it.

Mathias spoke, almost out of reflex, a prayer. It was soft, barely a whipser, though probably enough Yukan could make it out with his beastkin hearing. "Odin, All Father. Let my Eye be sharp, let my bullet fly true. Grant me victory o'er my foes and when my death comes, let not my last thought be "if only I had.." yet let the halls of Valhalla ring with my name, and let me rest atop a mountain of my enemy's dead. Skaal."

He spoke almost as if in some form of trance, a state of serine calm yet lethal sharpness. Yukan was here to prove him self worthy, to garner aid for his cause and to garner aid for the near helpless folk and build his name in the honor and glory to do so.

Mathias was here to kill shit and, hopefully, get paid. He really wasn't sure were his mind was going with this line of thought, but it didn't feel...bad. At least, not as much as he figured it would. A shift in the darkness caught his eye and in less then a second, steeled nerves and hone impulses fired, and the pistol snapped some where off to the side, but did not fire. "Gods I miss my old Nods."
 
Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi | Okami
Maverick Six Maverick Six | Vincent
TheTimePiece TheTimePiece | Yukan
Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread | Rei
LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman | Mathias
SixSense SixSense | Kota
Elvario Elvario | Tomomi

1) The Cave – Yukan & Mathias​

The narrow tunnel opens at last into a grand, vaulted cavern. Luminescent fungi coat the walls in streaks of sickly green and blue, casting dancing shadows across uneven ground. Stalactites hang like fangs from the ceiling, and shallow pools of murky water reflect the glowing fungus overhead, making it feel as though stars shimmer beneath the earth.

A Once-Holy Altar​

At the far side of the chamber stands a stone altar, half-submerged in murky water. Cracked and weathered, it’s inscribed with faint runes similar to those lining the corridor. Wisps of blue-green light swirl around the altar’s edges, trailing off into dark corners. Every so often, a sharp flicker of crimson flashes among them—evidence of corruption eating away at whatever sanctity this place once held.

The Guardian’s Manifestation​

A low rumble echoes from behind the altar. Emerging from the swirling lights is a floating, ghostly silhouette—a hulking shape vaguely resembling a draconic or beastly form. Ragged ribbons of ectoplasmic energy lash about its body, and an eerie, distorted growl reverberates through the cavern:

Guardian Spirit (echoing voice): “Who... dares... disturb... this sacred realm?”

Its eyes, twin embers of sickly green, snap to focus on Yukan and Mathias. Flickers of spectral chain-like bonds stretch away from its limbs into the altar, suggesting the creature is still bound here—if only partially. The glimmer of bloodstained crystals embedded in its translucent flesh hints at the violence that corrupted it.

The Challenge Unfolds​

As Yukan and Mathias step closer, the spirit’s growl intensifies. Churning ectoplasm seeps across the floor, forming small puddles that crackle with malevolent energy. Here and there, jagged crystal growths jut from the ground, each humming with faint magical resonance. One misstep could prove disastrous.

  • Corrupted Tendrils occasionally lash out along the spirit’s sides, leaving scorch marks on the cavern floor when they strike.
  • Dark shapes—shadows of the spirit’s former essence—flit along the walls, visible only at the edges of Yukan and Mathias’ vision.
Yukan’s Danger Sense hammers in warning, and Mathias can practically feel the hair on his neck standing up. A single hiss from the spirit raises an unsettling wind that causes the cavern’s stale air to swirl.

Guardian Spirit: “Free me... or face my fury. I... have forgotten myself... but your mortal blood... shall suffice.”

There is no doubt: the final trial stands before them in the form of a once-noble protector turned hostile. Whether through combat or some daring ritual, the binding stone must be reclaimed, and the spirit cleansed—or slain—before its corruption spreads beyond this subterranean shrine. The cavern’s hush invites the first bold move, and the tension is enough to steal the breath from one’s lungs.


2) Vincent & the Cat-Woman (Kiyori) – Fortifying Taeko​

From the vantage of the newly raised watch tower, a broad view of Taeko’s scattered houses and farmland stretches under a warm midday sun. Down at ground level, workers cluster around the lumberyard, thick sawdust swirling in the breeze.

Kiyori, the cat-woman, stands nearby, occasionally casting glances at the tower—almost as if recalling her earlier, awkward moment there—yet her posture now carries a quiet resolve. She appears eager to help in whatever way she can.

Presenting the Plan​

A few villagers gather in a semicircle, examining a rough schematic of a wooden palisade that someone has laid out. One-Eared Woodworker—noted for his missing ear—runs a callused finger along the edges of the diagram, murmuring his approval. Scarred Woodworker, arms crisscrossed with old wounds, hefts a thick beam and eyes its dimensions, nodding at the proposed angle for the stakes.

  • Some of the younger villagers, mostly farmhands, exchange curious whispers. One, a wide-eyed dog-beastkin, asks quietly how best to hammer nails without bending them.
  • Kiyori offers clarifications in local dialect whenever the more technical aspects of the plan arise, ensuring everyone understands how to sharpen and brace the stakes.

Getting to Work​

Under a coordinating signal, the work begins in earnest. Logs are dragged to sawhorses, axes and saws cutting them down to the required lengths. The rhythmic thunk, thunk of carving sharpened points echoes through the yard. A couple of villagers set up a makeshift forging station, heating metal rods to be shaped into brackets.

  • One-Eared Woodworker jokes that in his youth, a half-dozen mages could have thrown up an entire fortress in two days, provoking lighthearted snickers.
  • Scarred Woodworker methodically tests each stake’s tip, muttering, “Sharper, sharper…” and reworking any dull edges.
A young farmhand—the dog-beastkin—observes these proceedings with shining eyes. He practices hammering a nail into a spare plank, watching carefully to avoid bending it. Any advice or demonstration provided by onlookers or a passing blacksmith is met with eager nods, the boy’s tail wagging each time he improves.

First Sections Raised​

In steady progression, sharpened stakes are hauled to Taeko’s southwestern edge. Ropes, iron fastenings, and stout wooden beams come together to form a palisade row. The repetitive scraping of wood against soil mingles with the occasional clang of metal supports being fitted.

  • A pair of local mothers wander by, offering cool water and small snacks in appreciation. They seem relieved that the village is finally taking tangible steps toward better defenses.
  • Several watchers—older beastkin once skeptical—start offering to carry extra tools or bring fresh rope from the storage shed.
By mid-afternoon, a decent stretch of pointed stakes stands along the perimeter, a defensive barrier that didn’t exist at dawn. The sight alone seems to lift the spirits of passersby, who pause to admire the row of newly placed fortifications.

A Brief Respite​

The workers soon gather around a stack of cut timber for a lunch break. Kiyori, hair disheveled from labor, brushes dust off her arms and glances over the partially erected wall with visible relief. She quietly remarks to anyone listening how good it feels to see such unity among the villagers. There’s an air of cautious optimism—as if everyone realizes this palisade won’t solve all their problems, but it’s a solid start.

Some of the locals begin talking about reinforcing the eventual gate or possibly adding platforms for lookouts. Conversations about future improvements bubble up—maybe a second layer of stakes, or moats, or towers tall enough to spot an approaching threat from afar.

All in all, a newfound hope settles over Taeko’s southwestern boundary, the rhythm of hard work and shared purpose uniting villagers and visitors alike. Despite the looming uncertainties beyond the village borders, Taeko’s walls are rising, and its people grow a little more confident with each beam set in place.


3) On the Eastern Road – Rei, Tomomi (“Steve Irwin”), and Neco-Arc vs. Two Cultists​

A burst of leaves and dust swirls around as the party ambushes the hidden fox and lynx cultists. The ground-bound earth golem (with Neco-Arc perched on top) collides mid-lunge, setting off a frenetic clash.

The Fox Cultist vs. Rei​

Rei’s Assault​

Sprinting with supernatural speed, Rei lifts her blade high—an obvious tell, designed to force the fox cultist on the defensive. He attempts to counter with a diagonal slash of his chipped longsword, but Rei’s follow-up swing is swifter, landing a solid hit.

Fox Cultist (wincing): “Gah! You—!”

The cultist’s sword clangs against Rei’s, but she overpowers him with practiced footwork, forcing him to stagger back. He’s still in the fight, but clearly hurt.

Flashback: Previous Cultists?​

A flicker of memory crosses Rei’s mind: the skeletal cultists from the caves all wore tattered armbands bearing cryptic symbols. These two bear no armbands—a discrepancy that suggests they may be from a different sect or faction altogether.

The Lynx Cultist vs. Tomomi & Neco-Arc​

Tomomi’s Charm​

Even as the lynx cultist prepares to raise a twisted staff, Tomomi’s flurry of contradictory compliments and threats leaves him visibly disoriented. His eyes flicker with confusion at her words:

Lynx Cultist (blinking): “Wha…? I… We’re not adorable— Wait, how do you…?”

He’s caught in the swirl of Tomomi’s words and the golem’s menacing presence.

Neco-Arc’s “Shonen” Parody​


Neco-Arc
Hokuto Neco-Arc.png

Seizing the moment, Neco-Arc leaps from the golem’s shoulder, adopting a ridiculously over-the-top martial arts stance. She unleashes a rapid, high-pitched flurry of paw strikes reminiscent of a certain famous “ATATATATATATATATA!”

  • The lynx tries a desperate counter-thrust with his staff, but the earthen golem grabs him from behind, limiting his movement.
  • Neco-Arc cackles: “NYAAA-WA MOE—KEN!” in a hilariously garbled war cry.
Her tiny paws strike the lynx cultist’s chest in comically fast repetition. A final “NYAAA!” sends him toppling backward, staff clattering aside, as he bursts into a cloud of confetti (or so it appears—likely a bizarre effect of the staff’s twisted magic colliding with the comedic “attack”). The hapless cultist is nowhere to be seen.

The State of the Battle​

  • Lynx Cultist: Disappeared into a cloud of confetti
  • Fox Cultist: Hurt, sword trembling in his grasp. He looks between his fallen companion and Rei’s lethal stance, uncertain whether to flee or fight on.
For a moment, the battlefield stills. Tomomi’s golem stands ready for another command, while Neco-Arc strikes a final pose, confetti drifting around her.
 
Tomomi Koyake

YN9ZboV.png

From: Novel AI
Mentions: Maxxob Maxxob | Rei Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread

Tomomi listened to Rei's mention of cultists. Apparently this was a common problem here. How cosy. That said, Tomomi got a bit surprised by just how battle-hungry Rei seemed to be. The latter had seemed more... what to say? Adorable? Passive? Nice? Calm? All of those. Anyhow, she didn't mind. She wasn't going to do much fighting as she was, so she'd gladly step back for a bit.

“Yes you are! You're totally, utmost, undoubtedly, the most cute and adorable people I've ever met!” She chuckled. Now this. This was fun. “Who wouldn't instantly fall for such a lynxy charm? Who'd not want to hear how such a charming one purrs during a cosy night spent together? Tell me, would you give me first-hand lessons on how a lynx meows during its most intimate moments?” The thought alone was turning her off, but her [Charm] should make it sound believe-able enough.

Charm – Seduction F, Deception F – Attempts to charm someone. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown

That's when the Neco-Arc arrived. She blinked a few times. What in the world did just happen. “How utterly plain and normal.” Those were the only words she was able to use to describe that scene. Did the bloody cat mascot just punch another into becoming confetti? Was that even possible? Was it some sort illusion? It had to be, right? “Surely my eyes would never deceive me.” She stated, as she couldn't believe her eyes.

“I don't suggest you flee from this, as it is clear you still have a shot at winning this battle.” She'd tell the remaining fox. On the topic of that, she'd call out to her golem. “Don't grab him!” Perhaps it'd understand. Perhaps it wouldn't. Either way would probably be fine.

On the topic of that. “Your sword skills ares a lot more horrible than I expected. You really struggled in dealing with these two.” She'd compliment Rei. “I don't see why Yukan would want you to stick around.” She'd add, just to be clear. “Although it seemed like you never knew a thing about these cultists. I suppose you couldn't tell me anything more about them?” She asked, hoping to learn of any possible prior connections.

She sighed. “Either way, we should stay here for as long as possible. I'm not growing nervous about meeting my brother in the least. Nor am I the least bit worried about him potentially being involved with more of these cultists. I don't exactly feel like those feelings aren't growing worse by the moment either, so let's take all the time.” It was a tad odd, but now that she'd seen the potential dangerous around, she was actually starting to worry. Which was probably even more odd, as her brother was likely far more capable of taking care of himself than she ever could.

Then again, he could probably be naïve. She wouldn't be. She hoped, at least. Then again, she'd have to explain her condition first... Why did she start overthinking things now, of all times? Perhaps it was the shock from a totally normal cat turning someone into totally normal confetti. That didn't make her doubt her own existence and the things she considered reality in the slightest. Nope. Not. At. All.

Action 1: Charm F
Action 2: Command Golem
Action 3: Look cute or something.
 

"Mmm," She replied with a light grunt as she listened to Kota's words.

Taciturn as she was at that moment, she wore a relaxed grin the entire time. There was a lot to glean from his words. How Kota saw her. How he saw himself at that moment. The fact that he was expecting some kind of angry or negative response for his prying. That's funny. Their little trip through the village had no destination in mind. Couldn't have been moving at much of a slower pace. She let him take his time and speak his mind. Then, after a long pause, she shared her thoughts on the matter.


"It does," she replied, "But it is a nice thought, all the same..."

The Wolf glanced around at the village of Taeko. Or, at least, at the town in its natural state. Many of those who'd been training with them slowly drifted towards the fields. Some to river to wash clothing. Some preparing food. Mothers nursing their young in one direction and children playing in others. A reminder that she and Yukan and Kota and there others were just guests here for a short while.

"I suppose I didn't really make plans for the middle of the day, did I?"

She stopped abruptly and turned to Kota.

"There's a tower at the edge of town that the elder doesn't want anyone scaling," she began, "Would you like to join me up there? We can get some onigiri and sake before making our way up. Seems a fine way to pass the time till sunset. I can tell you all about what the villagers caught Lord Yukan doing at the edge of the river."

She snickered, and gestured towards the local tavern where group had been getting their provisions since they'd arrived.

"And you can tell me all about what it was that pulled you away after we toppled that fort. What say you, Kota?"
 

Xy8IxXR.jpeg

Kota
Titles: Fae, Beastman (Mundane), Kitsune, Isekai, Delver, Striker, Floating Fox, Republic Adventurer E, Floating Fox, Striker, Champion of Holy Water
Character Sheet
Mentions: Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi

Kota would roll his eyes, a smirk on his face. Perhaps he’s reached his limit on personal questions for the day. He couldn’t complain, he had the opportunity to learn a whole lot more than he initially thought.

His stomach would growl at the mention of food, “I can’t turn down some good Kuridan food.” He smiled, it was about lunch time anyways. Perfect time to get some food. The two would make their way to the tavern, alongside procuring Onigiri and a bottle of Sake. Kota would procure two bento boxes for himself and anything else Okami might want.

He’s let the wolf lead them to the forbidden tower, his mind desperately trying to resist the assault the bento box had been delivering on his heightened sense of smells. The trip up to the top of the towerwas pretty easy thanks to [Acrobatics F]. After climbing to the apex, the fox would take in the view of the village in all its glory.

“Not gonna lie, it’s a pretty sweet view from up here.” His golden eyes dilating as it took a picture of the view. The fox would take a seat, his tails curling in to his body as he tried to make space for the wolf. He’d crack open the bento box and the fragrance that the assortment of meats gave awakened the beast within.

“The fae-see is beautiful but its food is severely lacking.” He remarked before popping a salmon sashimi in his mouth, his ears would droop in delight at the taste, he’d swallow his bite before speaking. “That’s where I was, the Fae-see. Just decided to walk around and take some time to myself. Exploring and seeing some new things, I ended up running into some Lambs who were in trouble.” He’d grab another sashimi and dip it into some soy sauce before downing it.

“Dealing with spirits is my thing and for some reason, the lambs had attracted something malicious, possessing bandits and then exploding their bodies when they felt necessary. It was twisted.” Kota spoke, surprised how he managed not to lose his appetite at the thought. “What sounds infinitely more interesting is Yukan getting into something with the villagers?” Kota would give a sly smirk as he took an onigiri and gestured his hand.

“Yukan strikes me as the type of beast to avoid embarrassment. So what was it he got ‘caught’ doing.” He’d smirk, downing some Sake.
 
Rei Unagishi


That's right, she remembered how different this sensation was compared to the ones when she fought the guard or the cultists back in the cavern. The guards were better equipped and the cultists had the skeleton demon thing, she wasn't sure what the armband signify but fighting the fox and lynx felts more like beating up some street urchins than actual cultists. With the lynx burst into confetti and the fox clearly outnumbered, the real fight was pretty much done.

"Well, these people feels a bit different from the ones we fought yesterday." She shortly replied at Tomomi's question, she was thinking of capturing the fox which was why when Tomomi gave order to the golem Rei mistook it as an order to her. The swordsman quickly swiped at the fox's sword, aiming to disarm him or at least took him off guard before dropping her own sword and lunged forward with open arms in an attempt to grapple him into submission.

Action:
1) Sword swipe - Fighting Style (sword) F, Martial Ethos - Ice God Style F (Initiative: Attack), Selective F- Rei attacks a target's weapon in an attempt to disarm them - 1 action - Grade F - 0 post cooldown
2) Combo grapple with the golem

Maxxob Maxxob Elvario Elvario
 
Yukan Koyake


Interactions: Maxxob Maxxob LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman

Yukan continued to move along the narrow tunnel carefully, until eventually he ended up in a grand vaulted cavern, presumably with Mathias trailing behind him still. He took note of the luminescent Fungi still, noticing the strange colors on high alert in this new environment in general.

Then there were the shallow pools of murky water.

“Watch the water Mathias, it’s difficult to see what is submerged and it might be unsafe.” He’d comment aloud for pre caution's sake.

The space might of almost been pretty if Yukan wasn’t aware of what evil had taken root within.

When the alter was in sight, Yukan looked ahead at the partially submerged alter, familiar at this point from past experiences in liberating sacred spaces from the evil corruption which seemed to take hold of certain areas, was it due to neglect? A malevolent force moving in? It certainly felt like clearing corruption was becoming a big part of Yukan’s career so to speak.

“It is as the priest said, this once sacred space has been corrupted..” He commented to Mathias, taking note of the problematic looking flares of energy.


Upon feeling the rumble Yukan stood on alert, facing toward where it was coming from, as suddenly a ghostly silhouette emerged looking somewhat like a beast or dragonic being, as Yukan saw it’s strange form.

He then heard the odd distorted growl.

“This realm may have been sacred before, but it has been desecrated, we are here to purge the corruption from this place, and yourself, Noble Guardian.”

He took note of the tendrils and puddles, “Watch out for that energy..I wouldn’t recommend letting it touch you.” He’d speak softly to Mathias.

Yukan then gave a bow toward the guardian.

“I do not wish to do unnecessary harm to you,I understand that we must fight but if you can tell us anything about how to free you, it won’t need to be to the death, please noble Guardian, I know that there is a part of you here who can hear me! If there is a shred left, any information would suffice!” Yukan called out with Persuasion F + Etiquette F + Culture F

Yukan then drew his Su Yari, “Get ready to respond to an attack, and remember our plans.” He’d speak softly to Mathias again, his attention focused on the corrupt guardian, this move was a bit risky but he figured it was worth a chance to see if there was anything they could do, a ritual or something of the like that would result in a more peaceful outcome for both parties.

He thought just maybe there might be a different approach, while all the other corruptions he had faced had been purged by way of violence, just maybe it could be a bit less violent.

1. Bow and Try to persuade any part of Guardian hanging on/not corrupt to tell them how they can free it without full force violence.

Tanuki Talk - Persuasion F + Etiquette F + Culture F
Yukan tries to talk to target to Persuade and or learn information from target.
 


Vincent
Interaction: Maxxob Maxxob
Equipped Titles: Human [Mundane], Novice Tinkerer, Novice Blacksmith, Isekai, Mechanic
Language Key: Common | %Analog% |

full

The Village​



Horse Steppin'


A bit of this reminded him of home. The days before THE END seemed to be nigh and everything was falling apart. When Vince worked what one might consider a fairly "normal" life as a car mechanic who somehow managed to have a small -- one story place to himself. When he'd goto work every day, take some days off, go drink and with the boys and then clock back only one third drunk.

Each day was a new problem. There was always some shit that needed fixing be it at the shop, his place or maybe at the place of some lucky lady who'd sweet talked him into providing services at a discount. All things that went almost out the window as a bunch of hive-mind controlled bloodsuckers took over good part of the continental united states. At times he could only wonder how much they might have taken by now. It was quite the bummer.

But now, his mind was here, with this task and these people.

Guess this is my second chance, huh?

When it came to the gods and their fickle ways, he could only guess why they were here.

"A mage? Pffffffffffft!" He said. Though he hadn't met all that many mages -- it was a topic of discussion that came up pretty often. "They might be quick but half their shit don't even last long! Trust me. I want all this to stay here long after I'm gone." He said to the one-eared woodworker, poking fun at the fact that many mages needed either the perpetual presence of magic or a great degree of "duration magic" to make their things last long enough to be worth a damn.

Obviously however, Vince's experience with mages was limited and biased a bit by his more Widersian perspective. Though it certainly seemed he was one who preferred more "elbow grease."

"Make sure you hit the nail square on the head or it'll bend. And if it bends too much, might as well make some new ones. I'll keep the broken ones though. Might be able to melt 'em down later." He said to the familiar looking dog beastkin. "Oh. And between you and me, gals tends to like dudes. I'd learn a lot from all this for sure, if you know what I mean." He gave the beastkin a little advice before he casually move along with a whistle as he mosied on along with a bracket, working in particularly on a large door.

A break

Soon he found himself taking a seat on what was to be the gate -- content with nothing more than water. However, it brought a smile to his face that he'd help reinforce this struggling town. Somehow, it felt like he was making a difference. Though it wasn't just him.

The village was being trained by Okami and that new fox dude had proven formidable trainers of what was to be the town's militia. Rei as far as he knew, had gone off to help Yukan with the help of some newcomer. And a new mage seemed like it was on the way if things went well with that wacky priest. There were many ways in which things could go wrong. Even right now, Vince didn't particularly thing he was above or beyond being attacked. Someone could mess up. Or maybe things don't go well with the priest. He could only imagine how things would go without them here.

However, they had a shot.

"Thanks for the help earlier." Vince mentioned to Kyori for a brief moment before. "At this rate I might have to learn Beastial. This job doesn't pay much but seems like you all need the help. Wooo!" He said, stretching. "How was it growin' up here? I think about defenses, but I wonder about day-to-day life before all this started."

Rest was brief, but he'd keep at it. Already he had finished off the last of his dumplings and was fixing to get back to work. But he didn't have much trouble multi-tasking.


Actions: 2/3

HP: 2/2 (E - Grade Vitality)
Armor: 1/1 (F - Grade Heavy)

1. Give out instructions and tips.
2. Building for the Future - Engineering F, Tinkerer E, Blacksmith E, Athletics F - Vinces tries to construct useful weapons, armor and items in the field. - E Grade - 1 Post cooldown [Reinforce a Large wooden door]
3.

Cooldowns:
Vince
F - 0 Post Remaining
E - 1 Post Remaining
D - 1 Post Remaining

Lucky Charges: 1/2

Passives:
None.
 
Last edited:
Gwen_Temi Gwen_Temi | Okami
Maverick Six Maverick Six | Vincent
TheTimePiece TheTimePiece | Yukan
Spoiled Bread Spoiled Bread | Rei
LocalFloridaman LocalFloridaman | Mathias
SixSense SixSense | Kota
Elvario Elvario | Tomomi

1) The Corrupted Shrine – Yukan & Mathias​

A tense silence hangs in the cavern. Pale fungi glow against the rough walls, while the Guardian Spirit—a draconic, ghostly figure bound to a partially submerged altar—recoils from Yukan’s attempt at dialogue. Dark ectoplasmic tendrils writhe around its limbs, betraying an internal struggle.

Yukan’s Plea (Partial Success)​

Yukan’s respectful bow and measured words echo off the stone. The spirit’s eyes flicker in what might be recognition or hesitation—some glimmer of its former self fighting through the corruption.

Guardian Spirit (strained voice):“Noble…? Was I once… noble…?”

A fractured memory seems to surface, but the red-tinged corruption lashes out, sending arcs of malevolent energy skittering across the cavern floor. Mathias can see translucent shapes—ghostly echoes of the spirit’s chains—tightening, as if the beast is actively battling some unseen force.

Guardian Spirit: “C-can’t... speak. They twisted my wards…hhhggh… If you free the stone… maybe… gahhh!”

It rears back with a keening wail, half in pain, half in rage. The wisp of clarity is enough for Yukan to glean a crucial insight: the key to cleansing the guardian is tied to the shrine’s binding stone, presumably hidden within or beneath the altar. But the corruption’s hold is still strong, compelling the spirit to attack.

The shrine floor quivers as stalactite fragments rain down. Dark puddles swirl with hostile energy, sending out small tendrils that threaten to entangle ankles. The Guardian Spirit’s jaw opens in a mute roar, spectral fangs shimmering with lethal intent.

Yukan and Mathias now face a decision:

  • Fight through the spirit’s attacks long enough to seize or destroy the binding stone.
  • Or attempt some other clever tactic before the spirit’s next onslaught.
Either way, the confrontation is inevitable, though Yukan’s words have awakened a vestige of hope for a non-lethal solution—if they can survive the battle.


2) – Afternoon Respite (Okami & Kota)

At midday, the local beastkin bartender can be seen gathering fresh onigiri in a woven tray. He gives a brief, respectful nod in greeting, handing over the rice balls and a small bottle of sake with minimal fuss. There’s a glimmer in his eyes—some mix of approval and amusement—as he notices two familiar warriors seeking lunch rather than more trouble.

Once supplied, the pair heads toward the practically finished watch tower on the village outskirts. Several villagers glance up from their farmwork or daily tasks, watching them pass with quiet curiosity. The new wood scaffolding around the tower creaks a little in the wind, a stark reminder of the ongoing construction. From below, the freshly mounted bell gleams in the sun, the rope for ringing it swaying lazily.

Though a Caution: Work in Progress sign is posted, no one moves to stop them. A few passersby exchange whispers, but most simply continue on with their day.

When Okami and Kota reach the tower’s upper platform, they find a decent vantage of Taeko: half-finished palisade spikes ring part of the settlement, and the farmland stretches off into the horizon. The soft sway of ropes and the distant hammering of wood lend a strangely comforting backdrop to their momentary rest. From time to time, a faint breeze carries the fragrance of rice fields, mingling with the aroma of onigiri and sake.

Villagers going about their tasks below occasionally peer up, spotting two figures enjoying a quiet break. Some smile; others give polite waves. High above the bustle, the day feels peaceful—for now.


Part 3 – The Path Ambush (Tomomi, Rei, & Neco-Arc)


Amid the forest trail, confetti drifts to the ground where the lynx cultist once stood—some bizarre side effect of Neco-Arc’s theatrical finishing moves. Nearby, the remaining fox cultist eyes the group warily, still reeling from Tomomi’s honeyed words and the looming threat of Rei’s blade.

The fox tries to gather enough nerve for a final counterattack, but Rei deftly disarms him with a swift slash. Her blade knocks aside his weapon, and her lunge ensures he can’t break away. Before he can even process the sudden shift, Neco-Arc again leaps forward, unleashing a miniature, rapid-fire flurry of punches.

Neco-Arc
Hokuto Neco-Arc.png

Neco-Arc (in a dramatic parody shout): “NYA-HA! Confetti Fist 2: Electric Boogaloo!

The fox cultist, eyes spinning, succumbs to the absurd barrage—his body dissolving into another cascading burst of multicolored confetti. Whether it’s dark magic backfiring or the cat’s comedic aura run amok is unclear, but both cultists effectively vanish, leaving scraps of colored paper swirling in the light breeze.

A hush falls. Tomomi’s earth golem stands like a dutiful sentinel, lumps of soil still shifting slightly. Rei’s breath eases; the fight ended even more abruptly than it began. No sign remains of the two intruders except the confetti fluttering across the grassy path. Whoever they were—clearly different from the armband-wearing cultists of before—has been thwarted, if only for now.


Part 4 – Fortifications (Vincent & the Villagers)

As the afternoon sun drifts lazily overhead, woodworkers and volunteers gather around the southwestern gate of Taeko, where they’ve been laboring under Vincent’s guidance. A sturdy row of stakes lines the perimeter, and a newly fashioned 6 HP gate stands poised to be installed.

Local Feedback​

  • One-Eared Woodworker:
    Glances at the gate’s reinforced edges, running his hand along the iron bindings.
    “Never seen such stout work ‘round here. This’ll make the town safer—no question.”
  • Scarred Woodworker:
    Tests the hinges, nodding approvingly as they swing smoothly. She looks at Vincent, giving a slight grin.
    “We can hoist it up soon. You reckon we’ll need any extra bracing along the top, or is this enough?”

Kiyori’s Gratitude​

Nearby, Kiyori—the cat-woman—pauses from hauling rope to offer a polite bow. She seems both tired from the day’s efforts and visibly grateful.

Kiyori (tentative smile): “The others say we’ve never had a gate so… solid. Some even joked that no bandit would dare test it.” Her ears twitch, betraying a mix of relief and lingering caution. “I—I heard rumors of more travelers arriving soon. Maybe once this gate is up, we’ll be a real outpost—somewhere folks can actually feel safe.”

She glances around at the bustling scene of hammering, rope-tying, and villagers exchanging tips. A few of the younger ones wave at Vincent, curiosity shining in their eyes, as if hoping for more pointers on metalwork or carpentry.

A Brief Exchange​

While final adjustments to the gate proceed, a few passing villagers stop to express personal thanks:

  • A tanuki father carrying a small child who stares wide-eyed at the construction: “Didn’t think I’d ever see Taeko with such defenses... Means a lot to us.”
  • An elderly goat woman, leaning on a cane: “My old bones have seen this village through many storms. But times are changing. I’m… grateful you came when you did.”
Rumbling cartwheels signal another load of logs arriving. Kiyori helps direct placement, occasionally glancing Vincent’s way, seemingly wanting to ask more but hesitant to impose. The younger farmhands cluster around the new door, admiring the craftsmanship and comparing notes on who hammered the most nails without bending them.

Between the rhythmic pounding of mallets and the chatter of hopeful voices, the southwestern boundary of Taeko slowly transforms from a vulnerable gap into a solid barrier. For the villagers, it symbolizes more than wood and iron—it’s a promise that, for once, they’re not defenseless.
 

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