Active [The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

[SixSense]

Characters and goals

SixSense | Virgil NovaLume - Acquire Asset: F rank Castle

Beann | Aureliana Solari - increase The Order of the Solari Flames reputation

Maxxob | Sir Edwin Stormcrest - Acquire a title that gives Clout

Tau | Yume - Evolve into an Intermediate Fae

AClockworkEd | Aleris Monferrat - Utilize the skills he’s honed in real scenarios
​

---

Location- Castle Dantes, The Kingdom
Time: 9:30 Pm

The winter air blew strongly, large gusts of winds sending biting chills down even the toughest warriors spine. Snowfall had ceased for the night, providing respite from the sharp icicles that cut skin.

The adventurers, brave enough to accept the job request, would find themselves looking down the stone bridge leading to the castle. As they approach, the metal braziers lining the path would ignite, further illuminating what the full moon could not.

The large gate had two guards clad in steel, stationed on both sides, their eyes facing forward with their hands at their sides. In Between them stood a well dressed man with flowing silver hair and sharp pointy ears, his age seemed about double that of both of the guards. One arm layed crossed behind his back, further bolstering his posture, while his other hand fastened around a pocket. His gaze would find the group, an apathetic look in his glowing red eyes as he watched them cross over.

“Greetings” he’d provide a smile devoid of emotion, the moonlight would catch the prominent fangs in his mouth.

“I presume you are all guests of the young master, here to offer your services. My name is Marcotia NovaLume, one of the butlers here at Castle Dantes.” Marcotia would bow towards the group. “Please follow me, I’d imagine you are all tired of being in the cold. I'll take you to the Young master right away. He has been expecting you for some time now.” The gate behind Marcotia would rise, a blast of warm heat would bring the group into a tight embrace as it granted the group passage.

The entry hall of the castle shared a similar design to exterior, the walls and railings were carefully sculpted stone, utilized to create a plethora of mosaics that met at the grand staircase in the center of the hall. Despite its seemingly dormant exterior, the inside of the castle was bustling with more individuals that shared Marcotias glowing red eyes and sharp ears. Along with other humans who seemed apprehensive to the butler as they passed. Marcotia would lead the group silently up the stairs and down a corridor on the right for what felt like a 5 minute walk. On their way they would pass countless doors and offshoots leading deeper into the castle.


“The young master is in here.” Marcotia would smile once again, his sharp cheekbones forcing his eyes shut allowing the group to file into the room.

Near the far window they’d find the one who summoned them, standing with a long silver mane that flowed into a river of crimson red. His gaze focused on the window that overlooked the mountains. “Thank you Marcotia.” he’d turn towards the group, his piercing red eyes examining the brave souls before him.

Virgil Mortier Novalume

Titles: Mundane Human, Moon-blessed vampire, Baron of Novalume

​

“Greetings everyone, I’m pleased to see that the snowfall granted you all a swift passage. My name is Virgil Mortier Novalume. I formally welcome you all to Castle Dantes in the place of Castle Lord who is currently unavailable.” His gaze would scan the group as he took a seat. “Please have a seat, time is of the essence. Marcotia will bring some tea over as we talk.” His eyes would flicker over older gentlemen who would bow as he made his departure. Virgil would step forward, taking his seat at the head of the table.

“As the freeze looms over us, it’s expected for the kingdom to suffer large casualties; however, a whole town going under in short notice is a more pressing matter. The town I’m referring to is Ozryn, which served as a crossroads for goods to be delivered to this castle as well as other settlements within the area. It’s been a week since we’ve sent someone to survey the area but alas we’ve had no response and with the monsters preparing to pour in from the first content. I’m afraid by the time soldiers are dispatched, the situation will be unsalvageable if it isn’t already.”

Virgil‘a jaw flexed as the corner of his lips curved up.“That’s where you all come in, I require your assistance in discovering what swept through this town and even possible finding if there are any survivors.” He scanned over the room with a tentative glare. Marcotia would return with not only tea but strawberry pastries to eat as well. He would move about the room placing them for each of the individuals.

“Any questions about the situation before I move forward?”

 

[Beann]

AURELIANA

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

Exhaling loudly, Aureliana watched her warm breath take form against the cold air. Cupping her hands, she cradled a flame in between to keep both her fingers and chest warm as she held it close to herself. She stared at the daunting castle as the group approached, finding that she needed to tilt her head back the closer they got to it. The castle stood tall and unmoving, perhaps serving as a symbol of resilience towards the cold that surrounded them. Her mismatched eyes shifted left and right as she walked across the stone bridge, eyeing the braziers that sparked to life. A small smile worked its way to her face, feeling quite at home thanks to the subtle fiery display. Even so, she would keep her own flame close to her heart up until they approached an old man with eyes so red she could not look away.

She clasped her hands together, extinguishing the flame that had kept her moderately warm during her journey to the castle and followed Marcotia as he led her and the rest of the adventurers inside. Crossing the threshold, Aureliana brought her hands up to the hood of her cloak, pulling the dark fabric back to reveal her vibrantly colored hair — a stark contrast to the darkened robes she wore. She remained quiet as they were swiftly escorted to where their employer was waiting for them, merely taking mental notes of the impressive interior and decor on the way.

Shuffling into the room, the fire mage looked between Marcotia and Virgil for a few seconds, noticing the similarities they shared. Piercing red eyes that reminded her of a lunar eclipse and long silver hair that was almost as bright as moonlight itself. Aureliana dipped her head slightly in greeting before taking a seat as instructed, her fingers gently tapping at the exquisitely carved table. She listened quietly as Virgil enlightened the group on the situation, a soft hum rumbling from her throat in thought now that they were given a clearer picture of what was expected of them. “Other than serving as a trade center for goods and supplies, is Ozryn known for anything else? Anything that could attract unwanted attention?” Aureliana tilted her head slightly, pondering the possible reasonings an entire town could go silent. Her attention shifted for a moment as tea and pastries were set out in front of them. After a split second of consideration, she took hold of the tea and brought it up to her lips to sip. "Ah..." A satisfied exhale escaped her lips before she looked over at Virgil once again. "Do you believe it possible for the monsters to have finished their preparations and possibly have invaded early?"

SixSense

Code by Serobliss

 

[Maxxob]

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baronet] C, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight] - #0E0101

The duties of a Ryken noble far exceeded lording over their given domain, solving local disputes, protecting those under them, and raising armies in times of war. Sometimes, they were expected to go into foreign nations, in the hope of strengthening diplomatic bonds. And when those duties matched the possibility of facing unparalleled challenges, it made the perfect recipe for Baronet Edwin Stormcrest to step forward. For a long while, he had wondered if the whispers about The Kingdom’s monsters were true: vicious, powerful, and unrelenting. Was Edwin worried? Not at all. He was eager to see just how those monsters bled and what sort of stock the warriors from The Kingdom were made of.

And with those thoughts on his mind, Edwin set out atop his destrier. The black-furred animal galloped with almost unnatural stamina, steady and unrelenting. Its hooves hit against the cobbled stones of villages in Ryke, as well as its plains and forests. It did the same in The Republic, the country which the baronet had to make his way through to get to The Kingdom. Luckily, more for the local populace than for the corrupted knight, he ended up not being accosted by any of the local beastkin. Filthy, disgusting animals, as he thought. Still, there were some he would have gladly battled with, only to prove his unquestionable superiority over them. They might end up making for quite nice rugs, after all…

Eventually, the baronet reached the frozen country. And despite its chilliness and snow, it made no difference against his cool skin. Not anymore, not since he had become something else.

The abyss-like holes of his helmet looked forward, toward the looming castle across the stone bridge. “At least this local lord doesn’t live in a box made out of paper, bamboo, and wood.” He scoffed, remembering the traditional constructions in The Republic. After staring at the structure for a few more minutes, his sabatons hit the sides of his warhorse, prodding the animal forward.

CLOP-CLOP-CLOP

Hooves hit against the stone, until the horse stopped right before the gate of the castle.

Edwin’s horned helmet turned as he scanned each one of those at the entrance: two guards and a silver-haired man with pointy ears. “Great, I will have to deal with hybrids" He thought to himself, assuming the man was a cross between a human and something else.

“I’m no ‘mere’ guest, I’m a proper member of Ryken nobility, Edwin from the House of Stormcrest” He cut in right after the elderly-looking man, his words laced with arrogance. And, dismounting his horse in a single movement, he had a skull-embossed shield on his left arm and a three-pronged lance in his right hand. “Get the stable-hand to move my warhorse to the stable, as I’m sure a castle of this size would have, hmm? I’d rather it not freeze to death out here.”

Horse
​

The black destrier neighed loudly, shaking its head from left to right, scraping one of its hooves against the stony bridge, almost as if trying to say something.

With his crimson cape fluttering behind him, Edwin followed Marcotia inside the castle, each heavy step leaving behind a metallic THUNK. The baronet wasn’t coy about his presence; on the contrary. And, while following the man, the baronet fully ignored the other denizens of the castle, as if none of them warranted a single second of his time.

When meeting Virgil in the rather lavish chamber, as he introduced himself and welcomed all those present into the castle, one thing stuck with the baronet the most. “Our host is unavailable?” Displeasure tinged Edwin’s tone, as if he had taken that as an insult. Shaking his head slightly, making a metallic groan leave his armor, he continued. “Very well, that can be looked over, for now.”

Pulling one of the chairs, Edwin then took a seat at the table. With his left arm, he undid the clasps of his helmet, removing it with a single hand and leaving it on top of the table.

​

The baronet listened to Virgil, his right gauntleted hand positioned over the table. The clawed fingers tapped against the wood in succession, starting with the pinky and ending with the index. “You wish for us only to ‘discover’ what happened in there or deal with whatever swept over this town?” Edwin asked, accepting one of the teacups and pouring a rather excessive amount of sugar or honey into it. With a spoon, he slowly mixed the contents of the tea, metal clinking against the china. “Both of them are entirely different ‘asks,’ after all.” He grinned, looking over at Aureliana and the others before bringing the teacup to his lips and taking a tentative sip.

"Ah, if it isn't the pyromaniac. How do you think your 'magic' will fare in these frozen lands?" He asked the woman.

 

[AClockworkEd]

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] - Darkness begets darkness - Aleris Monferrat

The snow crunches between Aleris' boots and the cobblestone pathway. The cold winds stinging his skin. His robes being warm enough to survive these temperatures, for a short time at least. But not enough to prevent the cold from creeping in, enveloping him, nipping him like some unwelcome snake. Though Aleris minds very little. The cold reminds him of death. The very feeling that his Lord fills him with the most. The harsh cold is almost a comfort. A reminder that his Lord is always with him. A reminder of his goals in this world. He thinks on why he is here. The opportunity to utilize what he has learned over his years of tutelage, in a true combat scenario, has yet to appear. And this request for aid felt like just such an opportunity rising.

​

Then the sudden flicker of light to his side enraptures him briefly. The figure beside him holding a small flame in their palms.

'A selfish act' Aleris thought, 'capable of creating warmth yet not even thinking to share it...'

He held his tongue though. He knows not the circumstances of this person's capabilities. Perhaps the flame to warm themselves is the extent of her mastery over the element. He could not know, so he cannot judge.

The castle itself is rather magnificent. Far too large and opulent for Aleris' taste. Though the craftsman ship of it is still worthy of praise. He steps in with the others. Feeling the warm enter him. The pain of the cold washes away, but thankfully the feeling of his Lord's presence does not leave Aleris. His steps no longer bare the crunch of the snow, but rather simply the taps of cork on cobblestone. soon after becoming a softer, almost silent step on the smoother stone of the castles interior. Aleris gets an unnerving feeling as he observes the inner working of the castle. Studying it closely, looking for any signs of magic that he can discern based on what he learned back at the Academy.

But then his host begins to speak. Morcotia first, then the man who introduces himself as Virgil. Both having an interesting similarity in appearance with one another. Distinctly appearing other than human. And reminding Aleris, somewhat, of a corpse with how pale their skin is. Though the pale knight clad in dark armor that has entered along with the pyromancer and himself, is pale enough as well to make Aleris believe that he is perhaps judging their appearance too harshly.

"I would deign to presume that survivors within the town are not only possible, but likely. You mentioned it has been a week since contact with your scouts. How regular is your contact with the town, generally? And what of the ride into town? Is it wooded? If so I would wonder on the potential that a simple group of bandits has maybe decided to make that road their new hunting grounds." Aleris pauses, realizing that he is rambling on. "Forgive me. It would seem we are here to find this out personally, rather than just offer alternative possibilities. Do not let me take up more of your time." He said, acknowledging the status of Virgil as his potential employer and man presenting in place of the lord of this castle.

Spoiler: Actions

Aleris uses his ARcana F skill to attempt to decipher magic in the castle.

 

[Beann]

AURELIANA

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

Upon hearing the dark knight direct the attention to her, Aureliana turned her head to meet his gaze. She raised an eyebrow at him, not taking kindly to the term he used to describe her. Ignoring it, she shrugged her shoulders. “My flames will burn brightly. Is it not fire that is used to stave off the harsh winters?” There was a slight tilt to her head as she asked a rather rhetorical question back to him. “I would be more concerned with yourself, Sir Edwin. I hear heavy armor is not designed to protect from extreme temperatures…” Turning her gaze back to Virgil, she allowed herself another sip of her tea. “Apologies for my manners, I am Aureliana Solari.” She introduced herself, only now realizing the only person who previously met her was Edwin.

SixSense Maxxob AClockworkEd

Code by Serobliss

 

[Tau]

Yume
SixSense Beann Maxxob AClockworkEd
(Trying new template, lemme know if it’s broken/ugly on your screen)​

What was it with all these frozen wasteland towns vanishing suddenly!? Why couldn’t a beach resort vanish for a change!? Were monsters shy of swimsuits or something? Yume was stuffed tightly in a bundle of wool and fluff, and still she felt envious of all the nearby icicles’ warmth!

Ignoring the temperature, this was a pretty neat place. A proper castle, even! Yume stopped there on the cobblestone bridge just to stare at it for a bit. Spooky— sure —and probably a bit haunted, but those dark spires looked beautiful, contrasting the white snow. She took a mental note of the unspoken aesthetic advice the castle offered, before running up to the butler.

Blessed warmth~!

"What g-g-gave you th-that imp-p-pression!?" Yume snarked, her words chopped up by the chattering of her teeth.

Without the slightest bit of decorum, Yume shed her bundles of fluff, revealing a white dress with yellow pants underneath. At this point, the extra layers were only barriers to keep away the cozy atmosphere of— hey, how did they heat such a giant place, anyway?

Then she spotted it. Ah, fireplace! Right. Not where the butler guy was leading her, but… eh. Yume picked up her winter clothes and headed into the side-room to the fire, dropping them nearby and letting them shed all that lingering winter. And it wouldn’t hurt to linger just a few seconds for her own sake. Soon after, she hurried back, but…

"Uhhmm…?" Which way had he gone? Should she just wait for him to come back and get h— no, stupid idea, of course he wouldn’t. "Okay, fine, I’ll find it myself," she shrugged.

…

It turned out, castles were kinda big. At least it was warm. Unfortunately, by the time Yume found the dining room, she was visibly panting from traveling up and down more stairs than she’d wish on her worst enemy. "Bleh," she blurted out, collapsing into the nearest chair and deflating. There were more people now, though… that was good! Precious meat shields~! "Hi," she said.

Now that she was in the presence of not one, but three vampire-y looking guys, it was time. Mere moments after she’d sat down, she stood right back up, migrating seats to be closer to the vampydudes. Ignoring the provided food, she reached into a small satchel tied to her side.

Pulling out an overtly-transparent sippy cup of cranberry juice, Yume made sure the two were watching as she began to drink the red fluid with slurps just loud enough to edge on being socially acceptable, all while cracking her neck and massaging her exposed shoulders a bit. All of this, ever-so-subtly invoking certain ideas that might be agreeable to the present company.

 

[SixSense]

Characters and goals

SixSense | Virgil NovaLume - Acquire Asset: F rank Castle

Beann | Aurelianar Solari - increase The Order of the Solari Flames reputation

Maxxob | Sir Edwin Stormcrest - Acquire a title that gives Clout

Tau | Yume - Evolve into an Intermediate Fae

AClockworkEd | Aleris Monferrat - Utilize the skills he’s honed in real scenarios
​

---

Location- Castle Dantes, The Kingdom
Time: 9:30 Pm

Marcotia would note the man's nobility, providing a respectful bow of his head before calling for the stable hand to retrieve Edwins Black Destrier. Shortly, the horse would be brought to the left quadrant of the castle where stables were situated. The black Destrier would find itself in a freshly clean pen with plenty of room along with a fresh bale of hay if it so chose to eat.

Through his use of arcana knowledge, Aleris would glean that the heat being produced in the castle wasn't through normal means but by the use of magic, though how it was being applied to warm the space was still unknown.

---

Virgil Mortier Novalume

Titles: Mundane Human, Moon-blessed vampire, Baron of Novalume

​

The pale-skinned man would raise a brow towards Aureliana, his expression gleaning an idea. He would lace his fingers together on the table, the leathers of his black gloves straining against itself as he moved his gaze into the others.

“In the public eye, it’s served its purpose as a midway point for quite some time.Underneath… I fear there is something to uncover. My father would frequent this town before his untimely passing. Since his death, I gained access to sensitive info. He would clench his teeth tightly, causing his jaw bone to pop out more. “He had been working on a project within Ozryn that may have a hand in all this, lab notes regarding experiments he had been working. I’m praying that his work it isn’t the source of our troubles.” Virgil would turn back to Aureliana, a wary gaze in his eyes. “That’s another possibility and honestly, the worst-case scenario. The most troublesome monster is an intelligent one. Invading early is one thing, different monsters possess different behavioral patterns. Especially if my father has a hand in this." He'd turn to face the Baronet, "It will likely end up being both, I'd be satisfied with just scouting and not having to battle but I’m afraid that’s a blessing the gods will not grant us. Naturally I will be compensating for the extra trouble.” He replied to Edwin in hopes of convincing him.

He was surprised to hear the Baronets comment on Aureliana, referring to her as a pyromaniac. A audible sigh would escape his lips, seems like these two were acquainted but not in a positive ways. Hopefully they could get along, and even more so. This woman wouldn’t prove Edwin right.He'd watch in silence as the two went back at forth, surprisingly it ended with the woman introducing herself, "A pleasure to meet you Ms.Solari." he'd return an inviting smile as though he didn't hear her threaten to burn Edwin alive.

Virgil would turn his face to Aleris, ”Shipments come into this castle twice a week from Ozyrn. As for the ride into town, there lies a thicket of woods surrounding the town. If it is bandits then I'd honestly be less concerned however I'm confident that our guards would be able to fend against bandits, and if there was trouble, at least send an emergency message." Virgil raises a hand, inviting Aleris to share his thoughts. "Feel free to share any thoughts on the matter, there is no need to apologize, after all, you all are doing me a favor, it's only right that I provide you with what I know." He’d fold his hands once more. “If there are any other questions or concerns, now is the time to voice them.” He offered once again as he scanned the room. His gaze narrowing as he notice something ary.

“We seem to be missing someone? I was informed that 4 people entered the castle. Any idea where our lost friend might have went?” He asked the others around.

---

As for our other guest, the one who seemed to have gotten lost in the castle. She'd find the group of vampires eating amongst themselves in silence, despite no words being spoken amongst them, it seemed like they were having a conversation of some sort based on the various facial expressions they made. The 3 would crane their heads to the sippy noises that Yume had been creating with her cup, a perplexed look on each of their faces before. They’d each look at one another before rising out of their seats and taking a seat next to the drill haired girl.

Their eyes were a deep shade of crimson as they approached her, once they were close to Yume. The Fae would feel a door open in her mind as she was invited into the telepathic conversation they had been sharing.

[“You lost or something kid? Curfew was over a long time ago.”] a voice, scratchy like sand paper ,would race through the fae’s mind as a shadow would be cast over her. The telepathic voice in question coming from a man who stood at the forefront of the trio. He possessed short white hair and a rough scruffy bearer on his face along with a noticeable slash over his right eye. [”Obviously she’s not lost Garrick, don’t you see the sippy cup in her hands. She wanted a midnight drink, no need to crucify her.”] The man to the left shot a side eye glance, he was clearly the youngest. His voice holding a much smoother tone. [“Why you tugging at ya neck. You hot or sum? Could always take a step outside, that’ll turn ya temp down real quick.”]

The last of the trio stood in silence, he was built much larger and looked a heck of a lot meaner than the other two. Despite his frightening presence, he held his position behind the two. Allowing for the other two to handle the conversation.

[“Her eyes, they’re yellow. I don’t remember any yellow eyes being in the coven.”] the young one spoke once more, a hand on his chin. [“Whats your name kid?”] the lighter voice bounced in her head once more.

 

[AClockworkEd]

Aleris Monferrat
SixSense Beann
​

The magical source of the heat intrigued Aleris. As did Virgil's answers to his questions. He wanted to know more. He felt the desire to learn that distracted him. Even so much as to not even notice that a fourth person had come in with them. Let alone separated themselves from the group. Virgil's mentioning of the fact that they were missing created an instant intrigue.

"I'm sorry, I cannot say I know about this fourth person." Aleris replied politely. He folded his arms behind his band, grabbing hold of his left wrist with his right hand. He shook his head, letting his hood fall to his shoulders. Revealing the very short, black hair underneath. His sharp, though plain, are hidden behind a rosy complexion on his cheeks. created from the heat after just coming in from the cold. He stepped forward, prepared to ask more for this mission. "I do wish to ask more. And I thank you for indulging me." He pauses briefly. "I would ask two more things of you. Beyond it's existence, is there anything more you know of the work that your father was doing? The more we understand this work the better prepared we will be in the case of your suspicions being accurate." Aleris pauses again, knowing that this question might potentially be unreasonable. Thus thinking hard on the phrasing to best prevent any potential offense. "And if you would be so kind, I would very much like to learn the method by which this castle's heat is generated. I can tell that it is of magical origin, though I cannot place it specifically. The way the warmth permeates the body is wonderous. And such a heat source could be invaluable as we investigate. More so considering the worsening weather."

Aleris spoke the truth in this matter. But not the whole truth. He omitted his curiosity and desire to learn this power for his own purposes. And he hoped that this omission was not something too easily picked up by Virgil or the others. To further sell this, he turned to Aureliana to speak with her as well.

"If not," He began, feigning a smile. "I do hope our pyromancer companion will share her flames in the future."

Spoiler: Action

Aleris uses his deception skill to hide his true intentions for asking about the source of the heat.

 

[Tau]

Yume
SixSense​

Yume wasn't exactly accustomed to having her own mental door knocked on, but it was a welcome change, not having to be the one to take the initiative for once. ["Why does everyone keep calling me a kid? Do I need sexier clothes or something~?"] Clicking her tongue, Yume wagged a finger and smirked, ["And here I was hoping classy castle-dwellers like yourselves would have an appreciation for modest elegance~"]

She hadn't expected them to buy the idea that she was drinking blood. Maybe these weren't the brightest candles in the castle. Nor the hungriest, it turned out. Not even one lick of the lips! Didn't she look delicious!? She'd even visited a spa a few days ago to make her skin look extra shiny and bitable! Vampires in this world truly had no initiative!

["Yume~"] Yume answered. ["You did call for outside help, yes? Something about a nearby village going missing or something? Ozayrin, I think?"] she pondered, a finger to her chin in thought. ["But you know, I don't do these sorts of things for free. I'll need some sort of payment~"]

Leaning across the edge of her seat, she pressed her shoulder up against the side of the nearby vampy and rubbed it against him a few times with a saucy smile, then took another long, loud slurp. ["That shouldn't be too hard, no~? After all, surely we both want the same thing right now~?"] Did people just ask for a little shoulder nibble straight up? Surely, there was an art to it? If this didn't work, she didn't know how to make it any more obvious!

 

[Maxxob]

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baronet] C, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight] - #0E0101

SixSense Tau AClockworkEd Beann

Edwin would grin momentarily as he listened to the hybrid Virgil. It appeared he was correct, that the ask could end up being much different than the one first presented. He didn’t speak immediately as his hunches were confirmed, instead he would bring the teacup to his lips once more, drinking the overly sweetened tea with deliberate slowness. Every single gulp was savored to its limit.

“I care little if I end up having to slaughter a battalion of monsters to get this done. In fact, I do welcome and prefer if that is what ends up being necessary.” The teacup clinked against the china saucer. “I haven’t come to The Kingdom to appreciate the sights, after all.” He chuckled slightly, leaning forward on the table, towards Virgil. “As you plan my compensation, just keep in mind that coin is worthless to me.”

His fingers would suddenly come to a full stop. “Let’s see if your flames keep their efficacy even in these lands, for my lance spills blood perfectly in every part of the globe.” His tone shifted, sounding more like a challenge. He would hold an index finger up, moving it left and right while clicking his tongue, like one admonishes a child “Lord Stormcrest will do just fine when addressing me…” What he said appeared to be aimed as much as to Aureliana as everyone else in the room. “... while I appreciate the worry, but the coldness of these lands makes no difference to me.”

His gaze would drift towards the late newcomer, who exposed flesh in such a brazen manner. A knowing smile appeared on the corrupted knight’s lips, looking at Yume from head to toe. “Careful, you might just end up getting more than you are hoping for.” For now, Edwin was satisfied with the information he had.

 

[Beann]

AURELIANA

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

Aureliana couldn't help but snort at Edwin's response. Her gaze wavered for a moment, opting to take a bite of the pastry that was provided with the tea than to address the dark knight right away. She had plenty of words to exchange with him but she wasn't here to argue with him. Regardless, her lips curled slightly into a smile — one that was clearly forced without a hint of respect. “Of course, Lord Stormcrest.” The tone in her voice carried no admiration for his status and she immediately brushed off the interaction by turning her attention to Aleris.

“I would be delighted to share the Solari Flames with you. However, if your only reasoning is to use such sacred flames for warmth… then your wants are misplaced.” She muttered as she extended her hand out towards him. Turning her palm upward, a small flame sparked to life, spreading across her fingertips. “The warmth of the flames will burn you — if you are not deserving, that is…” Aureliana closed her hand shut, extinguishing the flame before letting out a small sigh. She turned her attention back to Virgil, figuring the group had gotten off topic for too long.

“He is right though,” she referred to Aleris’ first request. “If you believe the situation with Ozryn is as dire as you suspect it to be, then it would do no one good to hold back on any information. Even the smallest detail withheld could lead to unnecessary injury… or death.” Her eyes shifted over to Edwin as she said those last words.

SixSense Maxxob AClockworkEd

Code by Serobliss

 

[SixSense]

Characters and goals

SixSense | Virgil NovaLume - Acquire Asset: F rank Castle

Beann | Aurelianar Solari - increase The Order of the Solari Flames reputation

Maxxob | Sir Edwin Stormcrest - Acquire a title that gives Clout

Tau | Yume - Evolve into an Intermediate Fae

AClockworkEd | Aleris Monferrat - Utilize the skills he’s honed in real scenarios
​

---

Location- Castle Dantes, The Kingdom
Time: 9:30 Pm
Weather: Light snowfall

Snowfall would begin once again, ever so light, snowflakes would dance across the castle. Falling upon the large roof before melting away. Maintaining the castle's pristine appearance.

---

The gruff vampire cocked his head to the side at the complaint the Fae give. An audible sigh plopping into the woman’s head as his eyes drifted toward the drink in her hands.

[“…I called you a kid because you’re drinking from a sippy cup like a kid.”] the man responded, adjusting his tone. The younger man beside him, closer to Yume, had a cheeky grin on his face as he stifled a laugh.

[“Lord Novalume called for help, yes, but he’s already deliberating with the others.”] the gruff voice sounded off. [“Meaning you aren’t a kid, but part of the help he requested.”] He would size her up, with a slight look of disappointment. [“Yeah, there’s some trouble at Ozryn.”] he’d grumble down the connection. The younger one would smile at her, ["Sorry Miss, but that's not up to us to decide nor are we equipped enough to pay you for a mess like that. So I'd say hold your breath on asking for anything until you speak with Lord Novalume."] The younger one would smile rubbing his head, as she pushed up beside him. ["You feeling okay? Feeling some pre-job anxiety?"] he asked obliviously missing the mark on what Yume had been insinuating.

["Welp I'll escort you to him, It's pretty easy to get lost in this castle. Names Caedrel by the way, the grumpy old man is Garreth, and the large guy is Nogrus"] he'd offer, walking to the large double door that led into the dining room. Caedrel would lead her across the castle on a mini trip, ever so often telling Yume about a cool room or sharing some Castle drama. After a short adventure, they'd reach the room where Virgil had been speaking with the others.

["This is your stop Ms.Yume. If you survive Ozyrn, come say hi."] he'd smile opening the door for her to enter.

---

Virgil Mortier Novalume

Titles: Mundane Human, Moon-blessed vampire, Baron of Novalume

​

A pleased smile would appear on Virgil's face, seeing that the last of the group would arrive. "A pleasure for you to join Madam, ask and they shall appear I suppose." he'd flash a look in response to Aleris. "We were just getting into the details of the job. You came at the perfect time, please take a seat." he gestured a hand to one of the empty seats before turning back to Aleris who had posed a question.

"The work my father had been doing was regarding experimentations on monsters, for one of the things in his notes regarding the development of a magic-based bio-weapon. His goal was to weaken and cull the monsters without the need to expend soldiers." The second question came as a bit of a surprise, "I'm not too familiar with what magic might be used here, I'm simply a guest at this castle, you can say I'm calling in a favor for a friend. But I'd imagine some form of rune or artifice containing fire magic." He'd ponder on his response hoping that it would answer his question.

His gaze would turn towards Edwin, a pleased smile. "Here in the kingdom, there is plenty to kill though I hope you don't come to regret your request Sir Stormcrest, as for your compensation. I've come into being able to open doors that were once sealed." His eyes would narrow at the Baronet before moving to Aureliana who had been displaying her flames up close for the others to see before adding on to Aleris's earlier statement.

"Yes. there is another project he had but I pray Elara. I managed to scrounge together that he had been taking monsters hostage. Sampling their genes, then splicing them in hopes of weaponizing their strengths. The first batch of tests were run on mundane rats but failed, proving unstable and killing the patients shortly after." A look of disgust was on his face at the thought, "However I found in some recent notes that he had managed to strike some mild success when working on creatures from the fae see though it resulted in once docile creatures becoming highly aggressive. I worried that his genetic engineering had gone wrong leading to Ozryn becoming a ghost town." Virgil would stand up, his arms folded behind his back as he looked towards the mirror.

"That's why I need your help, people with no ties to the kingdom. Even with the military being slow to arrive, I simply can't trust them. While my coven of vampires are moon-blessed, unlike the mindless monster, we're often seen as no different. Being found guilty of such atrocities would condemn my family. If my father is guilty, then I'd like to bear that sin for my coven and turn myself in. Allow them a chance to live since this is none of their doing." He'd grip his hands tightly before turning back towards the adventurers, the few people he was willing to bet his final hand on. "Though this is only possible if we find out what happened in Ozryn first." His gaze would shift to Edwin who likely couldn't care less what happened to the Baron.

"I'd like to assume that Sir Stormcrest is willing considering he is here for combat. As for the undecided." His gaze would turn towards the other 3 who haven't voiced their choice as of yet. "The journey is a dangerous one, if you were to back out now I would hold no ill will. However, your assistance would not just help me but possibly save my coven. A carriage to take us to Ozyrn has already been arranged to leave at once." He'd placed a hand over his chest as he looked toward the others.

"To the undecided, what is your choice?"

 

[Maxxob]

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baronet] C, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight] - #0E0101

SixSense Tau AClockworkEd Beann

Satisfied with the tea, the baronet would place the horned helmet on top of his head once more, closing its clasps in a practiced, efficient motion. Donning his headgear once more, he turned towards Aureliana, focusing the new abyss-like keyholes upon her visage. "An enticing offer. How about I accept your Solaris Flame, while you accept the darkness of my domain? Perhaps a flicker of light might last for a brief moment, before being entirely consumed by the abyss." He offered back, a resounding chuckle leaving the small openings of the head protection.

Turning his head towards Virgil, the baronet appeared intrigued, hearing about what the man could offer. "Perfect. Promises of glittering gold and baubles might entice those of a lower status..." He would make a point to look at the others, leaving no doubt about who was he talking about. "... me? I rather gain what really matters." The warning of possible danger came in from one ear and left the other. "It will be only extra heads that I will have taken."

And as the man expanded upon the work of his own father around the village, a smile crept on Edwin's face, currently hidden from sight. "Ah, so it isn't hybrids who populate this castle, but Moon-blessed vampires?" Amusement mixed with sarcasm dripped from his tone. "Are you sure you want survivors to be located and brought back safely? Assuming what happened to this insignificant town was because of your father's work, there could be quite the indignity ahead..." The rumbling tone made one thing clear: he enjoyed the situation which the Moon-blessed vampire was in.

However, the doubts about that had been cleared by Virgin himself who was willing to bear the possible sins of the father. "Mmm... interesting. I wonder what sort of doors would you be able to open with your reputation ruined and behind bars, or even worse..." The clawed, gauntleted fingers began to tap against the wooden table once more, sizing up Virgil. "... no matter: law outside my domain is none of my business. If you either wish to risk reputation and position for possible dead, dirty peasants; or cover the tracks and bury all the evidence, I couldn't care less. As long as no crime is perpetuated by my own hand, of course..."

Kicking back the chair, he would stand up and be ready to move out.

 

[AClockworkEd]

Aleris Monferrat

​

Aleris nodded silently as he listened to Virgil's answers. Each bit of information nourished his endless desire to expand his knowledge and capabilities. Though some answers were much more nourishing than others. Virgil's lack of specific knowledge about the castle's source of warmth was disappointing to say the least. Relying on the pyromancer for warmth would add difficulty. But it posed an opportunity as much as it did a challenge. And the thought of magic-based bio-weapons brought a misshapen smile to his face. Uneven, unnerving, unstable. The dangers and failures that Virgil elucidated were expected. though the potential for success brought a gleam of desire to Aleris' heart. Turning his smile almost lascivious.

"Patchwork creatures of your father's creation. Meant for beings of war." Aleris thought aloud. "Quite ambitious. Should your worst suspicions be correct, I fear that even your attempts at self sacrifice might not spare your coven." Aleris uttered the word 'coven' with unmistakable malcontent. Clear ichor coating the word. No love lost between Aleris and the sanguine. "Though I will pledge my aid in this endeavor. In fact your warnings of danger might just have convinced me to agree." He added, thinking on his hopes to see just how prepared he is to use his skills in the critical situations.

Aleris listened to the black clad knight. His comment about Virgil's ability to compensate them if arrested was valid. Though Aleris held some hope that the coven that Virgil belongs too would be honor bound to compensate the group in his place. It would be nothing short of callous to not repay him for such a sacrifice. Even if he does so to cover for his own father's mistakes.

After pledging his aid he turns his attention to the pyromancer and the smaller boisterous young lady. Awaiting their response, with particular attention spent to the Pyromancer. Between the glaring need for warmth in this coming mission, and his curiosity in her phrasing had begun to make him fixate. Just what made someone worthy of these 'Solari flames'? How powerful are they? He would find these answers and many more on this journey, if the opportunity presents itself.

 

[Beann]

AURELIANA

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

There was the slightest twitch in her left eye as she listened to the dark knight’s words. How presumptuous of him to think the Solari Flames would be consumed by darkness so easily. Aureliana immediately downed the rest of her tea, allowing the scalding hot drink to burn at the back of her throat. A pleasant way to keep herself from giving into Edwin's taunts. Instead, she continued to listen to Virgil as he explained the finer details of his father's work. She hummed softly, intrigued by the new information that was presented to them.

“Your desire to protect your coven is admirable, for I would do the same for my brothers and sisters who treasure the Solari Flames as greatly as I do.” Aureliana spoke, rising from her seat. “I will lend my aid. Should these abominations created by your father prove to be the source of your problem then I will cleanse them by fire.” She spoke with pure conviction and a spark of excitement in her eyes.



SixSense Maxxob AClockworkEd

Code by Serobliss

 

[Tau]

Yume
SixSense Beann Maxxob AClockworkEd​

["Wait, you're not...?"] the truth dawned on Yume rather quickly, and with it, a faint hint of embarrassment, which she would suppress as she always did. The next couple of minutes were just her trying to pretend like she'd always intended to visit this spot first, and that she wasn't totally lost.

Yume let out a long sigh, as her incredibly blatant attempt didn't land. It looked like no amount of subtlety was gonna work. ["I'm fine. An escort would be nice, though. Show me all the comfy, warm spots in the castle~"]

By the time they finally arrived, Yume could only imagine how late she was. Within the 'fashionable' zone still, hopefully. ["Sure, see ya around~"] she replied silently to Caedrel with a little wave of her hand, before joining the main group. "Hey," was all she said as she took a seat, finishing her cranberry juicy with a few long, final slurps.

… Boy was there a lot to take in. Everyone looked like they’d recently hidden a fresh corpse in their own special way. But one of them was so absolutely, ridiculously over the top, Yume had to cover her mouth to turn a full-throated chuckle into a brief snicker.

Okay, nope, she couldn’t help it…

Yume put on her edgiest shadow-lord face, shielded half her face with her hand, and began trembling in her chair. A telepathic message, with Yume’s voice making a bad Edwin impression, was sent to Aureliana who, by her estimation, was the most likely to be capable of laughter.

Spoiler: Telepathy @ Aureliana

"I am the creeping darkness~! The blackest black~! Beside me, the deepest abyss is bright as the sun~! Beware, lest my swirling tempest of despair swallow you into an eternity of immortal agony~!"

"Hm? Oh, sure thing, Lord Nibbly. We’ll be sure to—" wink "—bring back—" wink "—all that important—" wink wink "—incriminating evidence for you!" …prolonged wink.

 

[SixSense]

Characters and goals

SixSense | Virgil NovaLume - Acquire Asset: F rank Castle

Beann | Aureliana Solari - increase The Order of the Solari Flames reputation

Maxxob | Sir Edwin Stormcrest - Acquire a title that gives Clout

Tau | Yume - Evolve into an Intermediate Fae

AClockworkEd | Aleris Monferrat - Utilize the skills he’s honed in real scenarios
​

Virgil Mortier Novalume

Titles: Mundane Human, Moon-blessed vampire, Baron of Novalume

​

“Yes, we’re moon blessed. My coven has been exceptional at disposing of mothers since its inception, second only to the mechanized fullers really.”

Virgil would nod his head in response to Edwin’s, “Despite being a Vampire, I’m also a Baron. Influence is also something I’m capable of wielding.” He’d face Edwin with smirk, perhaps that would entice him. “If I’m unable to fulfill the promise my self, the lord of this castle will do so in my place. I consider him an uncle after all.” The next question was one that was received often.

“If something happens to me, you can return here and receive payment.” He’d raise an eyebrow in response to the noble spoke about the people of Ozryn but chose to bite his tongue for the moment. Turning towards Aleris.

“You’re not wrong, it’s possible that it might not be enough to spare them but if it provides a sliver of hope I’m willing to bet on it.”

Once everyone was in, Virgil would bow his head in gratitude. “You all have my gratitude. We’ll leave at once, Ozryn is about a days travel. Our target is to reach the church at the center of town, underneath it is where my father’s lab resides.”

The Baron would escort the group back to the castle entrance where Marcotia stood. His usual aloof look on his eyes as he held the reins on Edwin’s steed, ready for the noble to ride. Another group of guards were stationed near a large wagon fit for the individuals without a dedicated mount.

Once everyone was settled, the braziers lining the stone path would shine brightly, shifting to expand the bridge wide enough for the carriage to be able to pass safely.

With that they were off.

---

After a days travel, group would have traded in the climate of the shivering mountains for a much more moderate climate. The crew would be heading down a nearby hill, falling into the valley where Ozyrn resided. From their vantage point they’d notice a cloud of smog covering the village, making it difficult to gauge the condition of the settlement.

Virgil furrowed his brow, “In the kingdom, if a situation sounds bad. Always assume worse. He remarked, noting that they’d be heading in even blinder than he imagined. The smog would be upon them shortly, the horses leading the carriage would neigh loudly before coming to a strong halt. Refusing to move another inch.

“Apologies, my lord. It seems as though the horses refuse to move another inch.” The driver relayed to Virgil, a bit of relief in his eyes.

The noble would nod, looking towards the others. “It seems like this is where we get off.” The vampire would gather his belongings and dismount from the wagon, coming face to face with the wall of smog which seemed to perfectly draw the line, as though it dared not to move an inch.

Virgil would place a hand on the smog, seeing his hand go through without any trouble. “I’ll head through first and shine a bright light to signal it’s safe on the other end.” He relayed to the others, pulling his grimoire from its satchel on his side. He’d walk over to the other side and gaze upon Ozyrn or what remained of it.

“Shit.”

The group would find a bright light shine through to the other side. Providing them passage through the fog to Virgil’s position. Once they crossed over they’d see that it was difficult to call Ozyrn a merchant town anymore.

Broken buildings lined the street with more than half of them looking like they’d topple over in an instant. The skies carried ominous clouds that were slowly closing in while winged creatures could be seen in the distance parading around the grand Valcori Church at the center of town.

The group would feel themselves being appraised by a set of eyes stemming from a nearby house. Shortly after a small boy would step out from behind a battered door near Edwin.

Out from the door, a young boy would emerge, his clothes tattered and face dirty. He would outstretch a hand for the dark knight, his eyes misty as he stumble approached him.

“Mister….my mommy. She’s… ill…Can you… help?” The boy would speak, his speech unusually broken up and monotone before stopping roughly 7 ft in front of Edwin as though there was some form of barrier that he was actively avoiding. The dark knight would feel the effects of [Persuasion] be used on him, tugging at his mind to listen.

“She’s…ill” he would repeat once again, his speech, broken up and monotone once more. This time his gaze and misty eyes propelled at the others before pointing towards the broken door. The effects of [Persuasion] being used to coerce them.

While this transpired, the group would still feel a dozen eyes using appraisal on them. The sensation perhaps boldening the feeling swelling in each of their guts.

Spoiler: Summary

Group departs from castle Dantes and arrives at Ozryn. Shortly after crossing through the smog they find themselves approached by a child in tattered clothing who stands 7 ft from Edwin. Though he seems distressed, his tone of voice is off.

The group is also under appraisal from a dozen other eyes that are watching their move.

 

[Maxxob]

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baronet] C, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight] - #0E0101

SixSense Tau AClockworkEd Beann

The baronet sat comfortably inside the carriage, legs crossed on top of one another. It was hard to say in what direction he looked, the horned helmet fully obscuring his eyes. Yet, from time to time, the headgear would turn towards the window, as he peered to the gelid landscape. Cold and uninviting, he thought. It was perfect.

"A useful advice no doubt." Edwin muttered, clawed finger tapping against the metallic shaft of his lance.

When the driver told the group that the horses refused no move, the dark knight clicked his tongue. "I should have brought my own warhorse. Animals not used to the ferocity of battles are a detriment in a possible battlefield." Shrugging, he began making his way out of the carriage. "I guess the situation is just as bad as you imagined, baron." A lingering mirth could be found on his tone.

With shield firmly attached to one arm, three-pronged spear held in his right hand, he watched as Virgil was the first one to cross to smog. "Oh, so we have a noble with actual guts? Refreshing to not be the only one." He told to the others: Yume, Aureliana and Aleris. "Still, bravado can only get you so much."

As soon as the light was shone, Edwin strutted forward, only to find out that Ozyrn lied in ruins. "Well, well, well... looks like a town destroyed and ravaged by monsters, alright." Rather uncaring, he took a deep breath, wanting to fill his lungs with the misery and desperation that must have haunted the place's denizens in their last moments. "Ahhhh..." He would let out a long, satisfied sigh.

"Mmmm?" Turning around, his crimson cape fluttering behind him, the baronet would face the little runt that dared, not only to approach him and beg for help. The dirty boy's words of [Persuasion] attempted to claw their way into the dark knight's mind, trying to touch some humane part that must still exist in the man. "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" That was a mistake [Character Grade D].

"Why should I care if your mother is ill or about to perish?" His words were cold like steel, cutting like a sharpened blade. " If she is too weak to survive, that would be only nature acting accordingly. I see no reason to extend any sort of mercy upon neither you nor your mother, even being able to bring her back from death's embrace." Stopping for only a brief moment, he continued, now not aimed at the boy.

"AND IF THE CURIOUS EYES DON'T REVEAL THEMSELVES, I WILL HAVE THIS WHOLE TOWN SWALLOWED INTO THE DEPTHS OF THE ABYSS." He bellowed the command, twirling his lance with a single hand, getting ready for something.

 

[AClockworkEd]

Aleris kept himself in silent prayer during much of the carriage ride. His eyes closed, praying for the strength and power to not be delivered unto his lord on this day or any in the near future. It was not until they were stopped by the horses that his concentration was shattered. In the following moments, He listened to the boastful Sir Edwin. And replied to him with a snarky tone through his otherwise warm grin.

"Your warhorse sounds formidable. Though could the skittish nature of these beasts, warning us of dangers ahead, not be considered quite useful in their own way? I am certain that I would prefer to be thrown off my steed, and aware of an encroaching threat, more so than ride along on a proud and oblivious animal."

Aleris turned his attention to the Pyromancer as the group followed Virgil through the smog. His interest in her flames peaked.

"Aureliana correct?" He asked, turning towards her and putting on a fake smile. "You spoke of your Solari flames back at the castle. Now might hardly be the most opportune of moments. But I would relish in the chance to learn more about them. If you would be kind enough to share."

He stands just three feet to the right of Sir Edwin as they are approached. The appearance of the child disturbed Aleris. Seeing him on his lonesome, so young, thrust into a situation beyond his control. It reminded him of himself. It reminded him of what he was willing to agree to for his own sake and betterment. This child could simply be in harm's way. But it could be the light of the anglerfish. Dangling before them so their focus is away from the teeth in their periphery. Without further information, Aleris cares not for taking chances. He uses his Ensnaring Tentacle ability. Launching the wriggling mass of tentacle from his hand at the boy. Aiming to restrain him, should he be more than he appears.

Spoiler: Actions

Uses Ensnaring Tentacle ability on the boy

• Ensnaring Tentacle - Magic F, Tangle Affinity F, Magic School F [Meta magic Magic Range F], Componentless Magic F - Launches a tentacle up to 30ft away, landing on and wrapping around a target to restrict their movements.

 

[Beann]

AURELIANA

[The Kingdom - Ozryn] What goes bump in the night

Considering the carriage ride did not have any strict seat arrangements, Aureliana made it a point to avoid sitting beside or directly across Edwin. Instead, she gravitated towards sitting beside Yume, far more comfortable with the shorter woman after receiving the amusing telepathic impression of the dark knight. She remained mostly silent for the duration of the ride but occasionally glanced over at Virgil, taking a second or two to admire the contrast of red to silver for his hair.

The mostly peaceful carriage ride came to an abrupt end as the horses that pulled them along refused to go any further. Aureliana furrowed her eyebrows, even more so when Edwin spoke about his own horse. Horses were intelligent creatures, keen to threats that the average person may not be able to detect. She nodded quietly in agreement to Aleris’ words, refusing to give the dark knight the satisfaction of her own input on the matter.

Her eyes then turned towards the baron, following his outline until he disappeared completely through the ominous fog. There was a warm feeling in her chest, like a single ember being prodded in an attempt to be brought back to life. However, such feelings were pushed aside as Aleris pulled her attention away for a moment. She was silent for a moment, merely staring at him before finally opening her mouth to speak. “The Solari Flames are bestowed upon those who are graced by Ifri, the goddess of fire — she who had risen from the ashes and breathed life into humanity.” The pyromancer explained as she followed the group through the smog once they received the all clear signal from Virgil.

Before she could continue to enlighten her companion, her attention fell upon the ruins of Ozryn but more importantly, the small child that had sought them out the moment the group stepped through the smog. Edwin’s words were lost on her, distorted and muffled as she focused on the boy. He was young and tattered, and he appeared scared and helpless.

He reminded Aureliana of herself.

Brief images of Kamarus flashed through her mind but she quickly buried those memories when Aleris was the first to act. She supposed it was an appropriate situation to act first and ask questions later. “What sort of illness has plagued your mother?” Aureliana asked calmly.

SixSense Maxxob AClockworkEd Tau

Code by Serobliss

 

[Tau]

Yume
SixSense Beann Maxxob AClockworkEd​

"My coven has been exceptional at disposing of mothers since its inception […]"

Well, that was one heck of a line to hear out of context. Did moon-blessed mean they only feasted on the blood of mothers? It’d explain the remarkable lack of appetite, since she was still childless. It also made Yume rethink things a bit. She was kinda hoping a vampire could just snack on some raw meat now and then or something. She hadn’t counted on such a restrictive (and frankly, disturbing) diet!

Ah well, even if they couldn’t pay her in immortality, she could at least use the money.

After a slight detour to reclaim her winter clothes, Yume joined the others in the carriage. It seemed they’d almost left without her in the minute-or-so she’d been away, which in hindsight, wasn’t too surprising, given her curse…

How lucky!

It was mostly quiet inside, which Yume filled with some slightly off-key humming. She really wasn’t much of a singer.

"I rose from the ashes once, but the only thing I’ve breathed into humanity is garlic from my breakfast this morning," Yume answered Aureliana leaning forward, taking a deep breath, and blowing air over her face. "Now you can add some Solari Garlic to your Flames."

As much fun as she was having inside the carriage, it would have to come to an end as they (sorta) arrived. "Well, that’s a pretty depressing looking town…" Yume remarked solemnly.

Her eyes were then drawn to the black-clad man cackling like a lunatic at an injured child. "Someone really needs to wean you off of the crazy pills," she replied, before throwing the boy a sad look of pity.

… Right before he was entangled in some kind of tentacle. She stepped back suddenly, out of surprise. "Really…?" Yume threw Aleris an indignant look. Such a paranoid bunch, this group.

"I’m sorry, but I’m really not much of a healer…" Yume answered with a saddened tone. "Also, keep your voice down. If Lord Nibbly over there hears you have a mother, he might get hungry."

Spoiler: Actions

• Memory Sink F — Stealth F, Telepathy F, Area of Effect F (Downgraded)
  Memories of Yume struggle to stick like normal. Where strong minds prevail, the average person may forget her in the time it takes her to get a cup of water.

 

[SixSense]

Characters and goals

SixSense | Virgil NovaLume - Acquire Asset: F rank Castle

Beann | Aureliana Solari - increase The Order of the Solari Flames reputation

Maxxob | Sir Edwin Stormcrest - Acquire a title that gives Clout

Tau | Yume - Evolve into an Intermediate Fae

AClockworkEd | Aleris Monferrat - Utilize the skills he’s honed in real scenarios
​

Virgil Mortier Novalume

Titles: Mundane Human, Moon-blessed vampire, Baron of Novalume

​

Revelation

The child would blink at Edwin's cold remark, the tears that had been gathering in his eyes now streaming down his cheeks. He looked up at the dark knight in fear. The heel of his foot would slide back in the dirt as he took a step back, sensing the hostility. However, in the night, the ascending flame provided a light of hope, as she seemed much more cooperative.

"She...is..ill," he repeated, as though he was trying his best to communicate.

Virgil would glare daggers at Edwin, finding the lack of empathy towards the child repulsing.

"Sir Stormcrest, is it possible to show some restraint in your thoughts? Especially in front of an audience.

Though he'd continue to do the exact opposite, threatening all who were watching that he'd level the town.

The child would take another step back; however, before he could do so, he'd find himself in a sticky situation. A tentacle shot out Aleris's robe with a raised hand, coiling around the boy.

“What are you doing Aleris?” Concern in his voice

Virgil would turn to Yume with a raised eyebrow as she poked fun at him.

“If you want to address be by my title that’s fine but at least use my proper title. Simply Virgil is fine to since we are equals on this mission.” He’d shake his head in annoyance. He was thankful that Aureliana seemed to be the only level headed one offering to help the situation.

Night Crawler grunt

​

The [Illusion] would fall, revealing that it was a facade. The boy's skin would transform, revealing what lay underneath. Fair skin would turn into purple spikes protruding from the body that seemed to provide the grunt with some protection [Natural Armor]. Its lips would curve up in delight before losing its human appearance and assuming a maw filled with sharp, protruding teeth.

Virgil watched, disturbed by their presence. He questioned their level of intelligence, was it a fluke that they assumed the form of a child or purposeful? Perhaps preying on human weakness. He was surprisingly thankful and concerned for Edwin’s Callous nature and Aleris’s quickness to take action. He’d have to watch these very closely.

"#Humans... we feast on your flesh#" The monster gurgled, a breath of condensation escaping its jaw as it looked over the group like they were fresh meat before licking its nonexistent lips. The group would feel the appraisal lift its gaze before the sound of multiple, tiny footsteps could be heard.

A dozen other monsters, similar in appearance, would emerge from alleyways and rubbled. Hunger darted each and every one of their eyes as saliva spilled out their mouths. “#If your common was better the red one might’ve come.#” one pointed at Aureliana.

“#it’s been too long since I’ve had fae, let’s feast brothers! Before Zae’del comes.#.” Another one screeched, its eyes set on the drill head, a look of curiosity on his face. Aleris who was able to understand abyssal would be able to pick up on all the conversation that has been transpiring.

SCREEEEEEEEEHEEEHHHH

The monster that had been snared by Aleris would let out a powerful cry, calling the brood into action. Two monsters would rush at Edwin, mouths Ajar as they attempted to take a chomp [E-grade attack + Team-up] out of the dark knight.

To Aleris’s left one, a grunt leaps for the tentacle wielding magus. Its mouth agape as it looked to sink its teeth into his robes[F-grade Attack].

In the far back a group of three grunts would puff their cheeks up before spitting a sickly green viscocious liquid from afar. [F grade ability+2 team-up bonus, Range F + Aoe F]

Virgil wasted no time, his Grimoire opening and flipping through pages before landing on the spell of his choice.

“In the darkness of the night, I call upon the goddess Elaras power. Use my body as a vessel and as your blade to vanquish those who threaten the Valcori.”

as he chanted, bright light would emit from his catalyst, passing its energy onto the Noble until he was invigorated by its power. With his free hand he open his palms and the light surrounding his body would condense into a single point before a beam of energy would shoot straight at the liquid.

The remaining 5 grunts would lie in the back observing how the group handled the first wave of attacks. Should they not do well they were prepared to overwhelm them quickly.

Spoiler: Virgil’s Actions

1. Attack using Moonlight Blast E

Moonlight Blast E [Magic E, Blight:Light, Magic range F, Magic Aoe F, Selective Aoe F] - Virgil chants a scripture from his Grimoire, imbuing himself with moonlight energy. He then takes aim with his hands and shoots a beam of energy at a designated location.- Range 30ft- AOE 15ft- 1 post duration- Grade E- 1 post Cooldown.

Battle Effectiveness E = 7

Spoiler: Summary

The illusion has fell revealing what was lying in wait! The jig up and now the monster aim to make their mark.

Combat has begun, standard rules 3 actions per turn

[Battle Report]

• 12 enemies in total
  
• M1 is currently Tangled[3/3 HP]
  
• M2 and M3 are attacking Edwin with a E-grade attack + team-up bonus
  
• M4 is attacking Aleris with an 1x F grade attack
  
• M5, M6, and M7 are using a wide range F grade attack with the Known componennts [Range F+ Range Aoe F+ 2 Teamup bonus]. Though it also contains two unknown F grade Affinities.
  
• The other 5 monsters present are watching from afar, analyzing how the group handles the attack.

[Status]
Edwin Stormcrest 4/4 HP 3/3 Heavy Armor

Aleris Mooferrat 2/2 HP

Aureliana Solari 1/1 Hp

Virgil Novalume 1/1 Hp

Yume 1/1 Hp

 

[Maxxob]

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baronet] C, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight] - #0E0101

SixSense Tau AClockworkEd Beann

“HAH! That is what your naïve and foolish bleeding hearts deserve!” The baronet uttered as soon as the illusion was dispelled and the demonic, horned creature was revealed. He pointed a clawed, gauntleted finger at Yume in particular. “If you had a brain between those ears, you would have known no civilian would have survived the destruction of this town. Every man, woman, child and elderly were probably ripped apart by these creatures, screams of agony gone unheard.” His words were cold, holding little sympathy for the fallen and without a single shred of hope that anyone survived. “Perhaps some even suffered a fate worse than death…”

Standing tall, lance and shield in hand, Edwin watched as the creatures began making their moves. With two of them moving to engaging him, he didn’t waste time. A quick flourish of his hand that held the lance made it spin. “Time to get more acquainted with The Kingdom’s… specialty.” Mirth undeniably dripped from his voice, as he slammed the blunt end of his lance against the ground, shattering some of the cobbled stone in the process. “Now you step into my domain!” The dark energies began to stir around him, ground covered with a pitch-black coat that threatened to consume all that it touched. It expanded rapidly, from under the baronet’s feet outward, in a 50ft radius, cracking with electric menace. [Action 1]

Raising his shield next, the crimson eyes on the skull embossed on it began to glint, stirring the surrounding mana. “The unending need for blood! The thirst which is never quenched! Grant your champion the boon he deserves!” The gathered mana, dark as the knight’s heart, seeped into himself. He could feel the strengthening as his capabilities were pushed even beyond its unnatural limits. [Action 2]

Lastly, he would shift the hold of his lance, moving it more to its end to gain as much reach as it was possible. “Vermin, demonic whelps should know their place on the ground, amidst the dirt!” He would spin, quickly, with his extended lance. His target was their knees, slamming three-pronged tip of his weapon against it. “Take a knee, peasants! The king is here!” [Action 3]

Spoiler: Actions:

1 - My Domain - Fighting Style C + Blight [Lightning] F + Continuing [Lightning] F + Aura (1) [Darkness (Necrotic] D + Area D + Selective D [Sparing allies/Targeting everything else] - Edwin slams his lance against the ground, creating a dark wave of energy that expands for 50ft, consuming everything around him - Grade C 3 Posts Cooldown (STR A (6) + WPN B (5) + Ability C (4) = 15 base effectiveness, +3 damage from aura upon contact, +1 damage from blight if successful, +1 damage from continuing if successful]
2 - The Dark Champion’s Boon - Bolster [STR] C + Magic D + Duration E - Edwin bolsters himself with +4 base effectiveness to STR for as many turns as Duration E allows it - Grade C 3 Posts Cooldown (Enchanted Item)
3 - Take a knee, peasant! - Fighting Style D + Blight [Lightning] F + Continuing [Lightning] F + Area D + Selective D [Sparing allies/Targeting everything else] + Incapacitating (1) D - Edwin attacks the area 50ft around him, trying to pierce the knees of surrounding enemies and forcing them into kneeling position - Grade D 2 Posts Cooldown (STR A (6) + WPN B (5) + Ability D (3) = 14 base effectiveness + 4 from Bolster = 18, +1 damage from blight if successful, +1 damage from continuing if successful, +prone status on enemies if applicable]

CDs: Edwin - C 0/3, D 0/2
Shield of Brutality and Constancy C 0/3, Locked until Duration E runs out or is cancelled

 

[AClockworkEd]

[Aleris Monferrat]

As the child morphs into the monstrous little beast, Aleris turns to Yume to respond to her question. His tone is dull and blunt. Carrying little if any remorse for his action.

"Non damaging restraints. We entered a town believed to be besieged by monsters. A true boy, affected by such an attack, would not take offense to us taking precautions in this case. It is merely the logical course. And I appear to have been proven astute."

The 11 other creatures revealing their presence and launching their attacks does little to concern Aleris. He observes, both the actions of the monsters themselves, as well as the actions of Sir Edwin and Virgil. The ones holding themselves back interested him the most. He studied them, curious if perhaps they were preparing something while out of the fight. A hunch told him that either they were lesser members of this pack, or they were much greater members. At this moment though, he had more pressing matters. Namely the little imp that decided that Aleris would be his primary target. Aleris watched the being out of the corner of his eye, letting it believe it is getting the better of him. Only until he gets too close baring his teeth in an attempt to bite Aleris. At that moment Aleris casts his spell, Eldritch Lash, once more. Aiming his whip first at the charging imp, and following through with it swinging at the restrained monster as well.

"I prefer to keep my robes intact, if you would be so kind." He says, mocking the monster with a smarmy tone.

Virgil appear to be combatting the ranged assaulters from the back line. Aiming at the projectile attacks themselves. Trusting in the sanguine companion, he instead focuses the follow through of his assault on the restrained monster. Directing the necrotic tentacle toward the imp as it struggles against the tentacle binds.

Spoiler: Aleris: Actions

• Eldritch Lash - Magic F, Magic School F [Meta magic Magic Range F], Incurable F, Necrotic Affinity F, Componentless Magic F - Summons forth a tentacle from his palm, lashing at a target up to 30 ft away, like a whip and dealing necrotic damage, eating away skin at the point of contact and bearing the power of Incurable.- Grade F - used against the restrained monster
• [Arcana] - used to determine is the monsters in waiting are attempting anything magical.

 

[Tau]

Yume
SixSense Beann Maxxob AClockworkEd​

Yume threw Virgil a happy look as her nonsense had its intended effect. She completely ignored his request and substituted some suggestions of her own: "Count Chompy? Baron McBites? King Carnivore?" That last one was a bit of a stretch, admittedly. She opened her mouth to continue, when the sudden imp invasion interrupted the process.

"Huh. Well, that’s gross…" Yume wasn’t sure if she was referring to the creature, or the tentacle still grappling onto it. "You know, Hoody, where I’m from, if something looks like a hurt little boy, that usually means it’s a hurt little boy. I have to know how to do that, though… oh, the potential~"

Sir Edge took the opportunity to rub it in, to no one’s surprise, but his choice of wording was especially ironic, she thought. "Speaking of brains, these little monsters look like they have some pretty tasty ones. Maybe I can learn the fancy illusions that way," she mentioned, careful to make it sound as much like she was a zombie as possible. With this group, that was probably a bonus more than a concern.

Taking hold of her wood wand, Yume pointed it at the distant group of 5. Her eyes darted down to her feet as she was surrounded, but not consumed, by the dark knight’s shadows, before refocusing on the targets.

"I’ll eat those ones hiding away over there. If they’re smart enough to hang back and wait, they’ll probably taste better." Not that she exactly tasted them, but… eh, anyway!

Raising her hand, Yume activated her bracelet, darting around to avoid the volley of attacks before raising her wand, unleashing several bright, purple tethers, slithering through the air like snakes aiming to strike the heads of the distant onlookers.

Spoiler: Actions

• Dodge M5-7 attack (if needed) | Ef11
• Brain Drain (Flux) | Grade B (E) | Ef13
  Magic B (E), Telepathy C (E), Psychic Affinity F, (Range E), (Targets F)
  A spell which targets and consumes memories, such as combat training or, in extreme cases, even how to function as a person.

…Also, why 1hp?