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Tales of Alidaire: The Struggle

Discussion in 'Statistical Roleplays' started by Masquerade, Jul 19, 2011.

  1. We'll see who gets cut.

    Mai gripped her blade's handle with fervor, her body tingling as the man summoned something of unusual origin. Whatever it was, this was the moment they would have to act. Already crouching to get into a running stance, she felt her power boil beneath her skin, the familiar energy summoning about her and giving off a dim cyan glow. The ground around her stirred slightly as she prepared any moment to make due with whatever this guy was summoning and put his head on the floor- without a body.

    The white glyph suddenly burst with powerful gales of wind, catching Mai by surprise as everything about her was violently disturbed and tossed by the torrent of air about her. Lowering herself to prevent from being blown away, she shielded her eyes from debris. However, it wasn't debris that was being tossed around; as Mai waited for the storm to pass, she gasped in surprise as the essence around her began to fade dramatically, blown out of her and melded into the gust around her like smoke to the breeze. When the wind ceased, Mai fell forward from the force she was applying against the wind, now unusually exhausted. She could clearly feel the absence.

    "What... What is this?" Mai struggled to let out, finding gravity's embrace unbearable, even for a split moment. Pulling herself up slowly and panting, she wiped her cheek with her loose, black sleeve. Looking at her arm, she attempted to conjure her power back, beckoning it to return with a hint of surprise and panic. But as the glyph in front of Lucian disappeared, Mai realized what had just happened.

    Already having regained her breath, Mai took a calming breath and gripped her blade, unsheathing it with the satisfying shling of metal causing her to smile confidently. Looking to her allies, she realized just as much as she had already thought. They all lost their mana. But looking to Katerina and to Lucian, her inner flame sparked with passion once more. This may be a last stand, but this is purely the stand for what is right. Mai, raising her chin, took a step forward challengingly. This was the honorable battle of the Dragon Warrior.

    "You coward," Mai declared, spitting on the ground in disgust. "You fear facing us with our full capabilities. You come here and demand us to see that you have the full power in your grasp, yet you strike us unarmed like an animal. There is no glory in what you do."

    "However..." Mai pulled her blade up slowly until it was parallel to her line of sight. "If you think this is a fair battle, then this is a fair battle. I am honored you think of us equals with my abilities subdued. Now we'll see how far your head rolls."


    -----

    Mai starts at H6!

    S-Ability: Dragon Rush is activated!
     
  2. Stry gave what seemed to be an exasperated sigh as the battle drew to its onset, his black-furred ears flattening against his head in what could be either irritation, trepidation, or simply mock fear. It was impossible to tell, but nonetheless, he scanned the immediate area for a strategic place to start the fight. A flicker of annoyance was indeed present in his eyes, prolonged for perhaps the first time since joining the group- what he had intended as light, yet cautionary, words had more or less backfired on him.

    Ah well. It was going to happen anyway. Though why they leap into battle against common sense is beyond me.

    Sidling to the side of the battlefield and spotting a bag, Stry edged to the object, ready to grab it. He wanted to at least be useful, though... he could tell already that his mana-based techniques would not work. The energy that he had grown up feeling, trained himself to use; it was gone, for the time being. The fur on his tails bristling, he glanced at his allies as they moved into position, seeming more angry than cautious. Foolish, in his mind, but it wasn't like they were going to listen to caution at this point. Might as well make the most of it.

    [Strytor starts at H1.]
     
  3. {Helena starts at I3}

    Helena stood, mouth agape, as this man threatened Kat right in front of them, isolating her as though they were mere buzzards hanging around, waiting for her corpse to pick away at. 'So-called friends?' As though they were nothing but an afterthought in his disillusioned head. "Listen, prettyboy. If you think y' can just flash around your monsters n' magic n' shit and expect us to turn around with our tails between our legs," here, she shot an obvious sidelong glance at Stry, who slowly maneuvered himself away from the group, "then you've got another thing comin'." She spat these last words with a growing, venomous hatred for the man. Though she spoke boldly, Helena remained very doubtful of their position in this fight. But she forced herself to stand tall. "S'only been a night since we met this girl, but it ain't hard to tell that we're gonna outlast whatever y'throw our way."

    Suddenly, however, as Lucian spoke, she saw the glyph appear on the ground beneath him as he drew his blade, which appeared to be forged from the darkest of shadows - the part that instilled fear in small children, cloaking the deepest fears of humanity - and she shivered in anticipation. She opened her mouth to make another largely unwise retort, but before she could, gale-forced winds blasted through her, chilling her to her very core. It felt like hope was being extinguished through her body entirely, not to mention her Body Mana seemed to absolutely disappear. Great... just when I need it the goddamn most. her thoughts seemed to vaguely say, but her innermost being knew that even with Mana, they weren't a match for the man.

    "It's... it's just as I feared..."

    Kat seemed absolutely dismantled by this point. It pained Helena deeply to see the one who she considered a friend in all of this madness with the kingdom to be so deflated. The woman-cat turned to her, informing the archeress that they were right where the man wanted them. She knew that there was nothing she could say to assuage Kat's worries now. She never was much good for the whole 'consoling' business. Only her actions could do the talking. The emotions that she had been struggling to contain before now erupted out of her like a volcano, spewing volatile anger like it was molten lava. She felt entirely reinvigorated. Mai to her right mocked the man, who now exuded confidence, soaking in the attention they were giving him. He seemed to relish their reactions. Helena didn't bother with acknowledging that her Mana was gone. She would put an arrow straight through Lucian's pretty little head - Mana or none.

    "I'd think that there's nothin' more to say. Let's have at it then, bigshot."
     
  4. "So you have truly chosen death.  Allow me to honor your wishes with demise!" Lucian exclaimed, a satisfied grin upon his face as he readied himself for battle.

    Chapter 02-G: Twisted Friendship

    Location: Archaea - North Gate

    Objective: Make your stand against Lucian, the Corrupter!

    Background: ~Soul Born From Darkness~

    {g} {g} {g} { } { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } {L} { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} { } { } { } { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    {B} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    {S} { } { } { } {A} {M} { } { } { } H
    { } {r} {H} { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Alexandra (Blue Mage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 35/35
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 14
    Def: 8
    Int: 11
    Spr: 9
    Evade: 10%
    Move: 3 cells

    Kat (Arrow Sage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 2
    Def: 10
    Int: 16
    Spr: 13
    Evade: 8%
    Move: 3 cells

    Helena (Night Huntress) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 50/50
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 16
    Def: 9
    Int: 2
    Spr: 8
    Evade: 16%
    Move: 4 cells

    Mai (Dragon Warrior) *HASTE* *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 55/55
    MP: 60/60
    DD: 4/10
    Atk: 17
    Def: 7
    Int: 5
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 5%
    Move: 3 cells

    Strytor (Kitsune) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 35/35
    MP: 45/45
    DD: 5/10
    Atk: 1
    Def: 8
    Int: 13
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 4%
    Move: 3 cells

    Lucian *MAG DMG OUTPUT +15%* *CHR +15%*
    HP: 5000/5000
    MP: 9999/9999
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 25
    Def: 17
    Int: 32
    Spr: 24
    Evade: 30%
    Move: 5 cells

    {B} - Bag (cannot be occupied)
    Trigger Comand: Open

    {g} - Gate Structure (cannot be occupied)

    {r} - Building Remnants (cannot be occupied)

    Player Phase 1!

    Alexandra moves to E5.

    Alexandra advanced without any hesitation whatsoever. This callous sorry excuse for a living being came into her city and wrought so much psychological and physical havoc and thought...no, had the complete NERVE to think that he wouldn't have to suffer the consequences? Whether she had the ability to wield Mana or not, she was going to make sure that this man paid for what he had done. As long as she had a sword in her hand, she could still run him through with it. Her body quaked with rage as she came to a halt, glaring at his smirking form. There were no doubts in her mind. She didn't worry about whether or not she would truly meet her end here. There was no room for that kind of thought. She would have to let herself be consumed with vengeance. Hell, she already had succumbed. The more she thought about what had happened, the angrier she got. She felt the heat of the flames that now threatened to engulf the kingdom, and the cries of the brave soldiers being dismembered by the vile monsters as they tried to protect the civilians.

    There was no excuse.

    Alexandra waits.


    Kat waits.

    Kat tried to conjure an arrow of mana to her bow, but it failed. She had absolutely no control. She wasn't a true Restocasian; she couldn't withstand Lucian's spell. In the end, she was nobody. She fell to her knees and buried her face into her hands. Her magical bow clanged against the cobblestone as it had fallen from her tight grasp. She was just an animal. All the life she had lived as a human meant nothing. All the tender moments she had spent with Lucian. All the things he taught her. All the dreams they had shared together. There was nothing now. The entirety of the foundation upon which her existence was based...was shattered. The warm salty tears stained her face as she continued to cry. She hated that he would be able to see her in such a distraught condition but what else she could do? She had no strength to draw from. All the others were going to try whether they had mana or not, but she was still just a helpless fool. That's all she would ever be.
     
  5. Mai burst from her spot, charging Lucian with a roaring yell. Keeping her blade low, Mai prepared her strike head-on. She wasn't about to let herself give up now.

    Stopping her speedy advance just a foot from Lucian's calm demeanor, Mai sprung into the air and flung her blade in a circular motion. Coming down from her swirling strike, she delivered another blow diagonally where his chest would be.

    Don't give up, everyone, Mai thought desperately, hoping to gain some help, Because I'm not. There are lives counting on us to do something!

    -------------

    Mai moves to C5 (G6, F6, E6, E5, D5, C5)

    Mai attacks Lucian! 17 ATK Damage!

    Mai attacks Lucian! 17 ATK Damage!
     
  6. {Helena moves to E3 [I3 - H3 - G3 - F3 - E3]}
    {Helena waits...}


    It was getting to be too much. The archeress could feel the pressure weighing down on her, as though all of the burdens of the terror-stricken city of Archaea had suddenly amassed into one enormous weight. It was on them to shoulder this weight. They were the final stand of what was moral in this kingdom... and Helena wasn't sure of herself anymore. She had been beaten, bruised, and battered before, to be certain, but with every wave from that horrid glyph that the atrociously gorgeous man had cast, she could feel the dehydration, the demoralization, and most of all, the despair setting in.

    She glanced once more at Kat, who did not move from the spot she stood at. In fact, the brave woman fell to her knees as Helena watched helplessly. The sound of the crimson bow clattering against the cobblestone walkway leading out of the city signaled the collapse of one of the pillars that endeavored to carry the righteousness. That had been what they stood for, right? The noble assassins... Helena thought to herself. Could she really justify her actions...?

    Of course she could. Her ring blazed against her thigh amidst the acrid heat of the city's hysteric flame. She knew that she couldn't just give up on the fight. For Kat's sake. For Alexandra's sake. Fer the sakes o'all of us, we were noble. the huntress thought, regaining a glimmer of vigilance. Prettyboy'll need t'put his money where his mouth is. Helena knew she hadn't met these people for no reason. A fire had been rekindled within her. Even when things seemed hopeless, they had to push onward. Mai, for all the flak Helena had given her about her 'righteousness' and misplaced trust, pushed forward, launching herself at Lucian. It was risky, and Helena surely needed a clearer shot at the man than where she was. Sweat ran down the side of her face as she crept alongside the rubble of the town's ruined buildings, trying to move into position.

    Closer... Helena thought, hoping that Lucian would take the bait that Mai was trying to be. She only had one shot before the man noticed her. She needed to make it count. Her eyes watered from keeping them opened, and her throat howled for any sort of relief... but all she could think now was Need t' get... closer...
     
  7. Black-furred ears pricked forward as the battle began. The nogitsune knew full well that there was little to no chance that this battle would be a victory, but still, Stry almost admired the hopeless courage of the humans he was with. A warily neutral look on his face- the sort of look a true fox might give an eagle circling above- the Kitsune snatched up the bag in front of him, quickly pulled out whatever was inside, and dropped the empty bag again.

    There are many things I can fault them for, but cowardice is not one of them, Stry thought to himself. One of his tails twitched and a wry grin played on his face at the thought. He'd always tried to play it as safely as he could, aside from the occasional borderline-masochistic thrillseeking that led him to do something like... well, something like confronting the group in the first place and tag along with them into uncertain perils.

    Stry crept forward, keeping to the wall beside him for cover and a hiding place. He knew well that his teammates didn't exactly care for him. It was just the effect his personality had on people. His ears twitched again and he gave Helena a sidelong glance, though whether she would notice him was unlikely. She was too focused on the man that they were fighting. A man which, despite his core impulses, Stry would not simply roll over for.

    Hesitance to fight is not unwillingness.

    And if I am going to die, I'll die fighting.

    [Strytor activates Trigger Command: Open! on G1.

    Strytor moves to G3.]
     
  8. Strytor opens the bag!

    ...

    Bag reveals Last Will! [Inventory updated]

    Lucian takes 2 Dmg!

    HP: 4998/5000

    R-Ability Sadism activates!  2 hits!  28 Dark Dmg per hit!

    R-Ability Dragon Blur activates!  One of the attacks fails!

    Mai evades Misfortune!

    Mai evades Curse!

    Chapter 02-G: Twisted Friendship

    Location: Archaea - North Gate

    Objective: Make your stand against Lucian, the Corrupter!

    Background: ~Soul Born From Darkness~

    {g} {g} {g} { } { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } {L} { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} { } { } {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    { } { } {H} { } {A} { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} {S} { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Mai's Haste has 2 turns left.

    Enemy Phase.

    Lucian attacks Mai!  2 hits!  28 Dark Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Mai dodges one of the attacks][Mai evades Misfortune][Mai is Cursed]

    "You may as well give up; your life is almost at its end already, and we've just begun," Lucian said snidely.  Mai's blade didn't even touch his skin or garments.  A plum-colored barrier surged to life around him just as the blade collided with it, even the second hit didn't faze it at all.  A dark gleam appeared in his eye as he retaliated, the first hit failing to connect with Mai's enhanced speed, but the second blow landed true.  Of course, he wasn't finished yet.  Taking his blade, he sliced at the woman once more, holding his ground.  His aim was perfect but Mai's ability to dodge was too great and his attack failed, but once more his second attack pulled through and his sword sliced through her, sticking a dangerous curse upon her spirit.  Retribution would be dealt for every bit of damage she dealt to him.

    "Face the music now, warrior of dragons," Lucian said, the arrogant smile never fading from his perfect visage.  "You may be able to avoid many of my sword strokes, but each one that lands carries you closer and closer to death.  Look at you now, weak and helpless.  You will NEVER be able to defeat the likes of me no matter how hard you try.  You're pathetic."  He spat at her, the projectile saliva landing right on her cheek.  "You are a disgrace to this planet and as such, I will wipe you from the surface of it."

    Lucian waits.

    {g} {g} {g} { } { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } {L} { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} { } { } {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    { } { } {H} { } {A} { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} {S} { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Player Phase 2!

    Alexandra (Blue Mage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 35/35
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 14
    Def: 8
    Int: 11
    Spr: 9
    Evade: 10%
    Move: 3 cells

    Kat (Arrow Sage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 2
    Def: 10
    Int: 16
    Spr: 13
    Evade: 8%
    Move: 3 cells

    Helena (Night Huntress) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 50/50
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 16
    Def: 9
    Int: 2
    Spr: 8
    Evade: 16%
    Move: 4 cells

    Mai (Dragon Warrior) *HASTE* *BROKEN PACT* *CURSE* *CRITICAL*
    HP: 13/55
    MP: 60/60
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 17
    Def: 7
    Int: 5
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 5%
    Move: 3 cells

    Strytor (Kitsune) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 35/35
    MP: 45/45
    DD: 5/10
    Atk: 1
    Def: 8
    Int: 13
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 4%
    Move: 3 cells

    Lucian *MAG DMG OUTPUT +15%* *CHR +15%*
    HP: 4998/5000
    MP: 9999/9999
    DD: 2/10
    Atk: 25
    Def: 17
    Int: 32
    Spr: 24
    Evade: 30%
    Move: 5 cells

    {g} - Gate Structure (cannot be occupied)

    {r} - Building Remnants (cannot be occupied)


    Alexandra moves to C4.

    The man was frighteningly power. With just his mere sword skill he was able to reduce Mai to nothing. She was fast and it was amazing how she dodged his strikes, but the ones that did manage to land were just too powerful. One more and she was done. She had to offer relief. "Mai, back down if it's too much; I'll gladly make him MY punching bag for a bit," Alexandra growled as she took a position next to Mai, placing a reassuring hand on the woman's soldier, but Mai didn't seem to be the type to back down. Besides, as optimistic as Alexandra sounded, she was deeply scared inside. She was afraid that she was going to die here. She was to be a martyr for her crumbling kingdom. She had saved her uncle, and now both him and her were likely to be laid waste to. It was saddening, and she had to fight the tears that were threatening to form in her eyes. She couldn't let him see her cry. She was too close to him; he'd notice. She had to remain strong even in the face of death. She just hated to think that her and the others had fought so valiantly only to die. If she could save the others, that would be fantastic. She didn't want them to die. If anyone was going to perish here, it was her. She would do what she must, even if it meant...

    Alexandra waits.


    Kat waits.

    Kat remained on the ground whimpering in complete helplessness. She had lost the man she loved. He wasn't even a man anymore; he was a monster. Had he always been like this? Was this truly what she had fallen in love with? It made her heart wrench and tears flowed from her eyes. She wasn't as strong as the others. This was devastating and her mind and body couldn't stand it. It shook the foundations of her very soul. She could have predicted this outcome; Nanila even foretold it. But never would she have believed it, and that was her greatest downfall.
     
  9. Mai brought her blade down with a yell as the blade whistled while slicing through the air. However, instead of seeing the satisfying image of the man's body being split in half, the blade had collided perfectly with a once-invisible barrier. Mai's eyes widened as she quickly blurred from view to dodge the now-active Lucian from striking her with the blackened blade in his hand. She quickly reappeared to his side, delivering another blow in hopes of catching him off guard. However, much to her dismay, the barrier blocked her strike again.

    The man then turned on her, catching her almost immediately while she was mid-air. /Damnit!/ she curses, feeling her body helplessly succumb to gravity without the aid of her mana to fuel herself away from the strike.  Trying to blur away a second time despite the circumstances, the blade catches her as she shifts, stopping her disappearance and rocketing her back from the impact.

    Mai struck the ground with a yelp and a thud, a thick well of blood cascading down her left arm. He had just narrowly missed her heart, which would have been immediately fatal. She gritted her teeth and ignored the searing pain of the gash now dripping with crimson liquid. She pulled herself up with her right arm, which was holding her blade, as she attempted to get to her feet again.

    Before she could think further of it, Lucian was already upon her. The blade ate through the air, whispering omens of doom and destruction in its flight. Mai quickly blurred from the ground again, unable to make it far as she reappeared just a few feet away. Caught within her mid-flight, Lucian already seemed to calculate her movements as he swung again, slicing right across her midsection and sending her flying once again.

    Mai struck the ground again, this time a spurt of blood flying from her torso. Mai had dropped her blade upon hitting the ground, leaving both arms to slowly cover her midsection. Mai coughed violently, a spew of her own crimson liquid spraying the ground nearby as she groaned. She could feel the warmth of her fatal wound, along with something more sinister. Looking down while catching her breath, she saw a clear veil of darkness looming about the wound almost mockingly.

    "F... Fuc-" she started, instead being interrupted as she coughed again. Slowly, she rolled to her side as Lucian spoke his next words.

    "Face the music now, warrior of dragons," Lucian said, the arrogant smile never fading from his perfect visage.  "You may be able to avoid many of my sword strokes, but each one that lands carries you closer and closer to death.  Look at you now, weak and helpless.  You will NEVER be able to defeat the likes of me no matter how hard you try.  You're pathetic."  He spat at her, the projectile saliva landing right on her cheek.  "You are a disgrace to this planet and as such, I will wipe you from the surface of it."

    Mai felt the sickening saliva of the man strike her face, causing her to flinch as if by being struck by acid. The dwindling fire within her was ebbing faster than ever. She felt the color from her cheeks disappear at the same time. Slowly, with grunts of agony, Mai turned herself completely against the ground, her right hand pushing against gravity as her left cradled against her stomach to hold in what she hoped would not come out.

    With a few pants, she stared at the ground beneath her as droplets of red fell from her lips. Despite such a minute detail, it was extremely vivid to her. Each droplet splattered before sinking into the earth slowly, leaving an auburn stain between the charred and dead grasses. This blood was nothing more than any other blood shed here. Her body would pile among the many others who fought for their rights and beliefs. Thousands of stories would be lost to the Earth, with hers being no different.

    /Perhaps... I am meant to fall, she thought slowly and despairingly, her fingers tightening and making clear trails in the dirt. Despite the immense pain flowing from her midsection and arm, her eyes swelled as a realization struck her. /All of the training has lead me to this. Perhaps everyone was right. I wasn't ready to be a dragon warrior.../

    /I have already dishonored the way of the dragon... Running away from the temple was the only choice left for me... now there's no more running. I am sorry, Master. I am sorry Kio... I have failed you both./

    Slowly, Mai pulled herself into a sitting position, sitting erect on the backs of her legs. She was now breathing softly with her drained eyes staring at the weapon resting calmly on the earth nearby. A small streak had cleared a path through the dirt and bits of blood on her face, with one drop of the salty tear hitting the ground. Mai carefully reached for her blade, flinching occasionally at the sharp waves of pain at leaning forward. She reached the blade and pulled it slowly to her sitting position, each movement causing her to let out a sharp breath.

    /If I am to die-- am fated to die, then I can only do one thing./ Mai turned the sword with the blade down, willing her arm with all of her strength to pull herself up. She groaned as she did, a helpless groan that she quickly silenced upon getting to her feet completely. Leaning heavily on the hilt of her sword as her feet connected to the ground, she stared at Lucian with what small ember she had left within her.

    Mai turned her head to the side to allow her hand to wipe the cold spit from her cheek, flinging it away in a disgusted manner.

    "You..." she started, "you can go to Hell." She pushed off from her blade as her right hand turned to grip the sword and rip it from the ground. She turned slowly so her body completely faced Lucian, a body splattered in dried and fresh blood that contrasted her vibrant blue garments.

    Only giving a slight glance to Alexandra, she let out a small grunt. This was no time to stop. "Just stay where you are; I'll try to finish this." She focused her sight now entirely to Lucian.

    Mai, after taking in a deep breath, let out a slow growl as she willed herself forward. Pacing swiftly, she rushed the man for what she knew would be the last time. Letting the blade drag on the ground, she built speed before she tensed her arm for the first swing.

    /If I am to die.../ she thought, her eyes momentarily glancing back at the rest of them that watched. Specifically, her eyes connected with those of Helena's. Despite the previous feelings of distaste toward the archer, somehow it had all melted. /then I will honor those that have fallen and fight for what they believe is right. That is my way now. Maybe that is honorable./

    --------------------------

    Mai Attacks Lucian! 17 ATK Damage!

    Mai Attacks Lucian! 17 ATK Damage!
     
  10. The Nogitsune stayed to the sidelines, watching with trepidation the unfolding of events that was this incredibly one-sided battle. ... Why did I decide to tag along again? He thought idly, the fur on his tails bristling. Of course, there were two answers to this; he was curious by nature (if quite a bit reckless) and he'd had nothing better to do anyway. The humans' courage both exasperated and intrigued him, however. He even admired them a little for it, but there was also an edge of pity at them fighting an obviously losing battle.

    Stry flinched slightly at the battering that Mai took in immediate retaliation for the minimal damage she'd inflicted on their enemy. It was a brutal counterstrike, and the Dragon Warrior lay broken on the ground for a moment. Enough is enough, The fox thought almost bitterly. Any more and you're just committing suicide. He doesn't say this aloud, of course; not that voicing his opinion would help much, anyway. They wouldn't listen. He'd already tried it, and he was disregarded as being a coward.

    I just don't want to die. He scanned the battlefield, moving forward slightly- slipping silently past Helena in the process. Reaching the corner of the gate structure, Stry's gaze darted from Lucian to freedom, escape through the gate. Maybe if he made a break for it, he'd get out of the battle alive, limbs and tails all intact. Why not leave the humans to their fate? They'd dug their own graves upon challenging the Restocasian. For a few seconds, his stance- his entire demeanor- looked like he was just about to bolt for his life.

    Then his expression changed. The wary apprehension hardened somewhat. Mai's words rung out, reaching the fox's sharp hearing.

    "You... you can go to Hell."

    The Dragon Warrior was standing again, still clearly willing to fight. Stry's slate-gray eyes watched her for a moment as she struck once, twice more at Lucian, seeming to disregard her own safety for the sake of (attempting to) drive away or defeat the enemy. He frowned slightly. What compels you...? What drives you to risk your own death in a battle that is not yours to fight?

    He cocked his head slightly, confusion playing in his eyes for a moment as he watched. Perhaps it was just the animal in him, the nonhuman views he carried, but it was difficult to fully wrap his mind around the concept. He was always used to running from danger that did not concern him, fighting only in defense of himself.

    ... Maybe...

    He grabbed something from his pocket; he didn't really pay attention to what it was, it was just some item the group had picked up earlier. Tossing it up and down like a ball, Stry took a slightly more aggressive stance, bristling, eyes narrow. Sure, he probably wouldn't be able to hurt the man, but if it would draw his attention away from the others for a moment...

    "HEY! Over here!"

    The object went soaring through the air, straight for the man's head.

    About two seconds later, Stry's tails drooped and his ears flattened against his head. ... Perhaps I shouldn't have done that.


    [Strytor moves to D3.

    Strytor throws the Alarm Machina at Lucian!]
     
  11. {Helena moves to C3 [E3 - D3 - C3]}
    {Helena's Innate Property Imbued Quiver fails to activate (Source: Broken Pact)!}
    {Helena's S-Ability Abstraction Arrow activates! Additional basic attack hit granted with Chance of 10% DEF Reduction!}
    {Helena basic attacks Lucian (B5)! 3 Hits! 17 ATK Damage (each hit)! Chance of 10% DEF Reduction (third hit)!}


    Despite the valiant onslaught that Mai had displayed, the smug grin never once faltered from the face of Kat's former lover. Cocky, arrogant bugger. Nothing but dirty tricks from his side of things - their Mana had been sucked dry by his debauchery, and though it hadn't vanished as immediately, their will to fight had similarly been fading. She watched from the side, trying her best to get an opening in the defenses of the man... but just as Mai struck, a barricade of a shadowy energy emerged around the man, keeping him safe from harm. The dragon warrior was blasted backwards in rejection, and to make matters worse? She had barely made a scratch on the man who remained so confidently an obstacle in front of them.

    More of this bullshit?! It was all Helena could do to not scream in exasperation. Despite having removed the scourge of poisoned flesh from beneath the castle's walls, it seemed that they would die as villains. Rebels to the crown, a ragtag gang of assassins-to-be. Although Helena was hardly sickened by the prospect, she worried more for what would come of Alexandra - the fallen noble. She had immediately thrust herself into this conquest; her title, her reputation, her life - all things at stake as a result of her rash behaviour. And strangely enough? Helena respected that. It showed her strengths. One day, she might make a fitting ruler of herself after all... 'course, that's considering she moves her sorry ass out of my shot. Squarely planted between herself and Lucian stood the noblewoman, spewing something that sounded more foolish than brave, despite the bravado she had layered on so effectively. Helena shot a warning arrow over her shoulder, directly at Lucian. "Move it or lose it, highness. It's time to nail Captain Pretentious in the gullet." Her arrow, mind, was aimed nowhere near the man's throat, but she did need Alexandra out of the way. Pronto.

    But why stop there? Helena's wicked-sharp tongue had gotten her into enough trouble before tonight. The blood was pounding in her ears. "And you. Must be nice t'sit on yer superior perch all high 'n' mighty when you're holdin' all the cards, eh?" Her fiery spirit faltered for merely a moment, for it was at this point when she met the eyes of the dragon warrior herself. What she saw in those eyes? The strange blend of hopelessness and defiance, like a hunted creature stuck in a trap. Mai looked utterly spent, but still she had the resilience to fight on in the face of defeat. For all of her preaching at Helena about 'honour,' the woman had proven her stuff tonight. In spite of her desertion in the darkest hours, she returned to a greeting of a blade, slicing viciously away at her like the teeth of a snare closing down upon her. But still, she faced her hunter. She did not give him the satisfaction of the look he wanted her to give. Mai would not roll over; not for anything. "Don't even have the dignity to face us in a fair fight?" Helena kept her eyes locked with Mai as she said this for only a moment, before refocusing on Lucian. "How fucking dare you call this woman weak and helpless, when you can't even play on a level field. Your strength? What a bloody farce." In spite of the odds stacked strongly against them, one of their allies having vanished inexplicably, and another that was rendered inconsolable, she was putting on a bolder face than she could even believe she had been capable of. Kat’s misery fuelled her in the worst way. Helena could finally see what had been broken within the other woman. Her Restocasian paramour had malice, hatred, and pure, unadulterated evil flowing within his spirit. And now he had the nerve to assail Mai? To preach to her that she was nothing but a weakling? Unacceptable.

    With her cover blown, another arrow had to be nocked to take the place of the first. She no longer had the luxury of the shadows to the side. Before she could shoot, however, she felt Stry brush past her - the faint scent of what she would consider prey lingering on her nose for mere seconds as stray pieces of his fur rubbed off on her vest. Fuckin’ foxboy, where the shit do you think yer going to get to? His presence in this battle had been negligible. Why did he choose now to leap to the front lines? She couldn’t watch him for long. It wasn’t her responsibility to keep tabs on the mutt, anyway.

    But then he yelled. He attracted the attention to himself. As unimpressive as he appeared, the animal boy had the balls to try and save Mai. Maybe it was futile, but even so… Wait…

    What the fuck is he holding?

    An object glinted in his hand for only a brief second before he hurled it directly at Lucian. Idiot. Maybe he really didn’t know what he was doing after all. Reckless and impulsive… but then again, those two core traits were what their entire group had been brought together by. As much as it pained Helena to admit to it, Stry and her were… maybe… not that different after all. The thought made her want to gag, but she had more pressing matters to attend to. Like saving all of their skins. The second arrow was flying an instant after, streaking at speeds much higher than the object that Stry had tossed. Somehow, she felt satisfied with that, even if it were a hollow victory.

    This was it. If they died here, they were going to go down swinging. She had never thought of herself as much of a woman of ideals, but it turned out that she would be fighting for the freedom of this kingdom, at the side of Alexandra. Noble by day, assassin by night. One question remained on her mind after the night they had spent together… what did Lucian want with Albert to begin with? The man clearly suffered from some problems deeply set in his own megalomania. Maybe there was a chance that he would spill the beans. As she readied what was perhaps her final arrow, she opened her mouth once more, spitting each word with more and more disdain, “But in any case, y’alabaster piece of shit,” she stopped here to spit in Lucian’s direction, as a mockery of his own disgusting behaviour, as she switched to something of a flirtatious tone, “D’you come here often?

    And there went the final arrow.
     
  12. The Alarm Machina hits Lucian right on the noggin!

    Lucian takes 5 Dmg!

    HP: 4993/5000

    Lucian's DEF is reduced by 10%

    R-Ability Sadism activates!

    Lucian counterattacks Mai!  2 hits!  28 Dark Dmg per hit! (ATK) [Mai evades Misfortune]

    Chapter 02-G: Twisted Friendship

    Location: Archaea - North Gate

    Objective: Make your stand against Lucian, the Corrupter!

    Background: ~Soul Born From Darkness~

    {g} {g} {g} { } { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } {L} { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} {H} {A} {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } {S} { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Enemy Phase.

    The barrier deflected the sword strokes and arrows with ease, the man sidestepping one of the arrows entirely, the smug look never fading from his perfect visage.  However what he did not expect was a strange alarm clock to strike his head.  The barrier didn't erect in time--it was so sudden.  A fierce glare was sent towards the fox boy that had tossed it; it was obvious upon his face that he had made a dire mistake, and Lucian took immense pleasure in this, but it was no matter.  He lunged out fiercely with his blade.  Two swift strikes landed true upon Mai's already cut up body and she was left as nothing more but a crumpled heap upon the cobblestone now.  Lucian clucked his tongue in reprimand as he strolled leisurely to a new position, looking at the trio nearby.

    Lucian moves to A4.

    "Things like dignity and fairness have no meaning in a fight against animals because that is all you are to us," Lucian said letting out a loud chuckle that echoed throughout the destruction of the city.  "Humans are nothing but animals.  We can slaughter you with ease like you do to your livestock, or to the wild that attack you.  You are nothing more than a wolf or a bear in our eyes, you just do not understand.  Your very lives mean nothing on this planet!  You are not even supposed to exist!  Torcrea made a horrid mistake; he had perfect beings in place to govern this planet and then he made you...you filth to taint our world.  And now I have my chance to rid this world of your presence.  Through darkness, you will be purged."  Lucian raised a single hand and from the sky descended several spears of light that jabbed into Helena's body.  She tried to dodge them but it was hopeless.  They maneuvered through the air in ways that only tripped her up making it easier for them to pin her in place.  "That woman was weak and helpless; look at her now!" the man shouted as he gestured loosely to the incapacitated Mai.  "And now you're helpless."

    Lucian casts Astral Prison on Helena!  50 Dmg! (INT)

    Helena tries to dodge the attack!

    Lucian activates Trigger Command: Fates In Favor! [Eliminates target Dodge chance]

    Helena is Immobilized!

    MP: 9999/9999

    Lucian grinned sadistically and licked his lips as he gazed upon his prey now rendered trapped within his spell.  With a wave of his hand, several points of light like stars appeared in front of him.  Taking his finger, he began to connect the dots, lines of light forming an elaborate glyph, and upon completion, he began to draw in more light from up above, a myriad of ghostly, moonlit orbs falling down and into the glyph, charging it with power.

    "The end is upon you."

    Lucian initiates Excess Array! (1/2)

    {g} {g} {g} {L} { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } { } { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} {H} {A} {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } {S} { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Player Phase 3!

    Alexandra (Blue Mage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 35/35
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 14
    Def: 8
    Int: 11
    Spr: 9
    Evade: 10%
    Move: 3 cells

    Kat (Arrow Sage) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 45/45
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 2
    Def: 10
    Int: 16
    Spr: 13
    Evade: 8%
    Move: 3 cells

    Helena (Night Huntress) *BROKEN PACT* *CRITICAL* *IMMOBILIZED*
    HP: 8/50
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 10/10
    Atk: 16
    Def: 9
    Int: 2
    Spr: 8
    Evade: 16%
    Move: 4 cells

    Mai (Dragon Warrior) *KO*
    HP: 0/55
    MP: 60/60
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 17
    Def: 7
    Int: 5
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 5%
    Move: 3 cells

    Strytor (Kitsune) *BROKEN PACT*
    HP: 35/35
    MP: 45/45
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 1
    Def: 8
    Int: 13
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 4%
    Move: 3 cells

    Lucian *MAG DMG OUTPUT +15%* *CHR +15%*
    HP: 4993/5000
    MP: 9999/9999
    DD: 2/10
    Atk: 25
    Def: 17 --- 15
    Int: 32
    Spr: 24
    Evade: 30%
    Move: 5 cells

    {g} - Gate Structure (cannot be occupied)

    {r} - Building Remnants (cannot be occupied)


    Mai... One of the bravest women Alexandra had ever had the privelege to meet, and she had met her end at the hands of an arrogant being who thought them nothing more than dirt. It felt so hopeless...how could he be so powerful? A Restocasian...were they truly perfect beings? This one was certainly frightening. Alexandra found herself paralyzed. She could not move. The light show playing out before her spelled out her demise but she had one last trick up her sleeve. She had to break through the veil of darkness overwhelming her soul. There had to be hope for them. It was only when they gave up--that would be when they experienced true defeat. This is NOT my end, Alexandra growled defiantly in her mind as a blue aura surrounded her body, a smile forming on her face but she said nothing to the others. Nothing at all. They would not know what she knew now. They had to find their own hope and brace themselves for what was coming. If they let it be the end, then it would so be the end. But Alexandra's story? It was far from over, and she would make sure of it.

    Alexandra uses Trigger Command: In-Depth Analysis! [Next Enemy Skill executed against the user is Learned]

    Alexandra waits.


    Kat waits.

    This was it. Kat's eyes opened wide as she realized the caliber of spell that Lucian was about to unleash upon them. The heart's true light...I wonder if it would have been enough to reach him if I had only been able to use it... She felt her heart racing, an insurmountable power restlessly flowing within her soul, seeking release but the pact would prevent it, subduing her mana with ease. She gazed into Lucian's eyes but his would not meet hers. They were filled with nothing but evil and chaos which was exactly what he wished to unleash upon this world.

    "I...I can't die here..." she murmured as she stood up and wiped the dried tears from her cheeks. "I will NOT die here, Lucian, do you hear me?! My heart will remain even if my body perishes! Erase what you will from the corporeal realm but I will not rest until I have my Lucian back!" she shouted adamantly, and unbeknownst to anyone not paying attention, a gentle light could be seen pulsating over her chest right where her heart was...
     
  13. The next thing Mai knew was the sudden sound of cloth tearing and and metal through flesh. Slowing to a stop from her quick advance, Mai stared on ahead with her sword Earthbound resting just to the side of her. Her tightened, resolve-boosted grip on the handle was all but gone now as the hilt slid through her soft fingers and struck the ground with a dreadfully air-piercing clang. That was the last sound Mai could hear.

    As the world started to turn around her, life's voices became silent as a ringing enveloped her. She looked down at her hand, which she hadn't noticed she held to her midsection, to see blood flowing from her body like a gentle river. It built up in the space between her palm and stomach, the warm liquid quickly becoming numb in her hand. Much to her dismay as she stared at her own life force flowing out of her, she felt her left knee buckle beneath her.

    Blinking with surprise, Mai stared at the cobbled stones that took up half of her horizontal vision. Had she fallen? Mai forced her hand upward from her side, moving each finger individually to settle her palm against the earth. Mai could barely tell if she had accomplished moving her arm in the first place. Everything is so cold... I've never been so cold...


    Slowly, Mai's upper half forced off the ground as she tried to pull her knees under her. She stopped as her face contorted and she spat a thick layer of blood, her free hand reaching down to her stomach before she crumpled under gravity's embrace once more. After a few moments, Mai's upper half slowly rose once more, although it was quite obvious that there was less strength. Mai cursed within her thoughts as she exerted any effort that was left within her. However, she felt every ounce of her strength leave all at once that caused her arm to buckle, tilting her to the side and landing onto the cobbled stone staring from the ground.

    From her angle, Mai looked down to see the massive pool of the crimson liquid just next to her. At any given time, she would have been deeply shocked at the amount of blood she had already lost; however, at this moment, she couldn't care less about that. She already knew it was over for her. Knowingly, she merely pulled her hand over her mutilated torso and futilely gripped her wounds in an effort to slow the bleeding.

    As she lay there, she could see the accompanying figures of Alexandra and the kitsune who now approached her nearby position. Her dazed eyes could barely move at this point, her eyelids begging to close for her eternal slumber. Her breathing, having been extremely heavy and hoarse, was now softening. Or, in this case, ebbing.

    Behind the darkness of her eyelids, Mai could see her old training room where she lay on the ground much like she was now. She had been struck down again by her master who had bested her for the 200th time with swordfighting that day. She felt her hands grip the cool stone floor and pull herself up, with the sound of her master taking an almost defeated sigh. "Mai, you should rest now. You don't need to continue. You have proven what you can do thus far."

    "Let me go, one more time! I can prove myself," she heard within her mind. However, as she rushed her master with the wooden katana, she felt a warm palm grip her head and stop her advance almost immediately. She looked up to see her master's eyes, a warm smile meeting her. "You've proven yourself today. I am proud. You can rest now, Mai."

    Mai's eyelids finally connected as the grip on her torso loosened drastically. Other than that day, she was contempt with her answer this time. I will rest, then, Master... I will.../ She thought as a small, almost unnoticeably clear teardrop slid down the side of her face. Maybe I can prove myself again tomorrow... I hope... to do better next ti...
     
  14. {Helena's Innate Property Imbued Quiver fails to activate (Source: Broken Pact)!}
    {Helena's S-Ability Abstraction Arrow activates! Additional basic attack hit granted with Chance of 10% DEF Reduction!}
    {Helena basic attacks Lucian (A4)! 3 Hits! 17 ATK Damage (each hit)! Chance of 10% DEF Reduction (third hit)!}
    {Helena waits...}


    Helena grimaced. To say that her arrows barely scratched the surface of the plum barrier that safely encased the man whose fate was so intertwined with Kat's. Nonetheless, he glared in annoyance towards herself and the dumb little foxboy she was situated near... but what appeared to be his plan was for naught, as the shining object fell harmlessly to the side, just like as her arrows had before it. He made quick work of Mai, who fell to the ground in a lifeless heap. Lucian seemed to lord over her as Helena felt bile rise into her throat. Even though there had been no love lost between the two women, she couldn't help but feel sickened at the sight of her lying crumpled on the cobblestones, struggling a little bit like an animal wounded. Prideful, but still on the verge of death. She would be just another casualty in their crusade against corruption. The exhaustion intensified within her, but she was snapped away from her hypnotized lock on Mai struggling upon the ground by the words of the most despicable man she had ever had the displeasure of meeting.

    Which surely said a lot, considering her experiences with men.

    "You are nothing more than a wolf or a bear in our eyes, you just do not understand. Your very lives mean nothing on this planet! You are not even supposed to exist!"

    Perfect beings? Shit, what a bloody joke. she thought to herself. How had Kat gotten all goo-goo over such an elitist prick? It didn't make sense to the archeress, who wanted nothing more than to pierce his barrier and lodge an arrow deep in his gullet... but apparently that was not meant to be. Not today, at least. She could barely scratch the surface of his barrier, let alone get an arrow to touch his admittedly perfect visage. But in that moment, he made another comparison that struck her. Hard. The way he compared them to nary more than animals left a bitter taste in her mouth. Maybe they really were nothing more than animals before the Restocasians...

    Before she could contemplate this any further, light came lancing towards her from the sky. Nimble and practiced as she was, she could not manage to dodge all of them. It seemed that every time she went to evade, the light redirected itself in two different directions until she was trapped within a cage of the bolts. Pain lanced through her core as she was viciously scathed. Helena struggled for a brief moment before she realized the futility. She thought she may have lost her consciousness briefly before her eyes refocused. Feebly, she spat, and uttered out a quick "Well, I guess that'll teach me t'not flirt with a man who 'as been taken." Her humour was as dry as her throat at this point.

    She was pinned down, and there was little more that she could do. Forced to kneel close to the ground, she felt battered, bruised, and humiliated. But then again, that was exactly what Lucian wanted her to feel. Wanted all of them to feel. She really was helpless at this point. She looked up at Lucian - in all his elegance, he still toward over her in a graceless manner. "Yer a disgrace to your own heritage, mate." she started, not willing to die in silence if this was how it was meant to be. "Even a hunter knows when to be humane to its prey. But you? Besmirch our humanity all y'want, only proves that we have more than you if you'll waste yer time 'ere." She coughed in pain, almost retching over, even though she was forced upright by her prison of light.

    As he readied himself to cast another spell, she tried to brace herself for the coming decimation. So effortless was his last spell that she could only imagine the world of hurt she was in for, especially given how much she had been running her mouth. But someone had to say it, and who was it going to be? The silent noblewoman? The fox-boy who had hardly tagged along enough to care? The broken heap of an honourable woman?

    The woman who used to be the lover of the twisted asshole before them?

    It had been so hard to watch Kat crumble within herself that Helena had to fight herself to not look back. But in the end, she lost the battle. Much like how Mai had locked eyes with her before she perished at Lucian's hand, this time it was Helena who was gazing upon her ally. And in the middle of all the pain, all the decimation of the city around them, she saw something that made her smile for the first time in what seemed like ages. Kat had finally raised her eyes to look forward. She stood slowly, and spoke loudly for the first time. The voice of a woman who had loved and had lost. Helena beamed as Kat's vigor visibly made a return.

    "Tha's the spirit, lass," she whispered, hands returning to her bow and quiver respectively, as she nocked one of her last arrows. "Never will understand what y'see in this bastard, but I like yer moxie." And with that, she turned her head back to focus on Lucian. Just a couple more shots never hurt anyone, right? She wanted him to remember the fire that blazed within her - how passionately she despised his very existence. Even if the man thought he was so far above the humans that he treated as nary more than an unfortunate occurrence. even if he would never be grazed by a single one of her arrows. Even if she were to die here, Helena wanted to leave emblazoned the memory of her red eyes, forcefully staring into his very soul. Not the eyes of a petty creature.

    The eyes of the woman who was coming back for his head.
     
  15. Alright, no.

    Mai was down. Helena was pinned. Alexandra and Kat could probably get out of the line of fire if they wanted to, but neither of them showed any signs of it. It might not even be a huge blast after all. But the way Lucian seemed to be charging his next attack... Stry knew it didn't look good for any of them. His ears perked up again, slightly, as he backed away a tad.

    "If humans are nothing but animals to you," He began, his voice betraying a slight hint of fear at the first few words before smoothing out into his usual demeanor, "I must be especially bad to you, hm?" Keep him distracted. Buy time. His tails spread out again; the fox seemed to have recovered from the realization that throwing something at Lucian was a horrible mistake.

    Stry glanced around at his allies for a moment, before smirking at Lucian again. "I'm not human, though. Do I still apply to your opinions of them, because I take this form?" His smirk faded slightly, into a very familiar sarcastic amusement. "Helena's right, though. Humans obviously have something your kind doesn't, and that's... well, humanity."

    The Nogitsune ducked behind the gate structure, still addressing the Restocasian, trying to distract him from the battle at hand. It probably wouldn't work, but hey, it was worth a shot if they were all about to die anyway. "What kind of perfect being are you if you're letting us waste your time? If you were as perfect as you claim to be, why would you let us live for more than two seconds? Why, in fact, are you letting us question you?" Stry was beginning to run out of things to say, as true as they were. But as he backed into a corner, he had one more thing he wanted to address.

    "The answer is simple, of course. You aren't perfect."

    Perhaps he was simply digging his own grave, but the more he spoke, the more he enjoyed saying it.

    [Strytor moves to E1.

    Strytor waits.]
     
  16. Lucian takes 4 Dmg!

    HP: 4989/5000

    Chapter 02-G: Twisted Friendship

    Location: Archaea - North Gate

    Objective: Make your stand against Lucian, the Corrupter!

    Background: ~Soul Born From Darkness~

    {g} {g} {g} {L} { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } { } { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} {H} {A} {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    {S} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Enemy Phase.

    "Let me tell you that I am NO disgrace; I am one of the strongest of my kind because the rest of them do not possess the courage to rise up and reclaim what is rightfully ours!  We let you have our land!  It is OURS!  And your filth continues to overrun it and destroy it, tainting it with your presence.  It is SICKENING!" Lucian shouted, his perfect face contorting into something more frightening, ravaged by pain and anguish.  "Because they so desired peace, they relented.  But they could quash you; we can still quash you all!  But they refuse to rise...well, I've already chosen my path."  The glyph reached the pinnacle of its charge and Lucian let out a loud laugh.  One of his prey had scurried away but there was no escape from demise now.  "Farewell, archer.  And to you, Katerina, giving you a human life was the worst mistake I ever made.  And now is my chance to correct it.  I will erase EVERYTHING about you from this planet.  Goodbye."  And with that, a supercharged blast of light surged out of the glyph, instantly devouring Helena, Alexandra, and Kat in its energies.  Lucian's sinister laughter filled the air as it continued to surge outwards, slowly dissipating after a couple of minutes which seemed like eternities in and of themselves had passed.  All of them now rested on the ground, lifeless.  They were all foolish for thinking that they could survive his wrath.

    Lucian casts Excess Array!  Hits Alexandra, Kat, and Helena!  114 Dmg! (INT)

    MP: 9999/9999

    With that out of the way, Lucian's sharp eyes rested on the last one standing: Stry.  "Are you worse?  No, there is nothing lower than a human.  Anything lesser than a Restocasian has the same value as dirt.  I am more perfect than you know, and now I will trod upon you like the soil.  As I have bid farewell to your allies, so now do I bid farewell to you.  Enjoy your afterlife, foolish being."  A giant portal opened up above Stry and before he could even give it a second thought, a pounding column of light descended from it crashing into Stry and flattening him against the ground, the sheer weight of the wavering light crushing his bones and grounding his body into the cobblestone.  There was no chance of him living now.

    Lucian casts Cosmos Pulse on Stry!  53 Dmg! (INT) [Stry evades Blind][Stry evades Weak]

    MP: 9999/9999

    Lucian waits.

    {g} {g} {g} {L} { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } { } { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} {H} {A} {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    {S} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    Alexandra (Blue Mage) *KO*
    HP: 0/45
    MP: 35/35
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 14
    Def: 8
    Int: 11
    Spr: 9
    Evade: 10%
    Move: 3 cells

    Kat (Arrow Sage) *KO*
    HP: 0/45
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 2
    Def: 10
    Int: 16
    Spr: 13
    Evade: 8%
    Move: 3 cells

    Helena (Night Huntress) *kO*
    HP: 0/50
    MP: 50/50
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 16
    Def: 9
    Int: 2
    Spr: 8
    Evade: 16%
    Move: 4 cells

    Mai (Dragon Warrior) *KO*
    HP: 0/55
    MP: 60/60
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 17
    Def: 7
    Int: 5
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 5%
    Move: 3 cells

    Strytor (Kitsune) *KO*
    HP: 0/35
    MP: 45/45
    DD: 0/10
    Atk: 1
    Def: 8
    Int: 13
    Spr: 7
    Evade: 4%
    Move: 3 cells

    Lucian *MAG DMG OUTPUT +15%* *CHR +15%*
    HP: 4989/5000
    MP: 9999/9999
    DD: 6/10
    Atk: 25
    Def: 17 --- 15
    Int: 32
    Spr: 24
    Evade: 30%
    Move: 5 cells

    {g} - Gate Structure (cannot be occupied)

    {r} - Building Remnants (cannot be occupied)


    * * *

    Chapter 02-G: Twisted Friendship

    Location: Archaea - North Gate

    Objective: Make your stand against Lucian, the Corrupter!

    Background: ~Soul Born From Darkness~

    {g} {g} {g} {L} { } { } {g} {g} {g} A
    {g} {g} { } { } { } { } { } {g} {g} B
    {g} {g} {H} {A} {M} { } { } {g} {g} C
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } D
    {S} { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } E
    {r} {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} { } F
    { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} {r} G
    { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } { } H
    { } {r} { } { } {K} { } { } {r} { } I
    { } { } {r} { } { } { } { } { } {r} J
    -1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9


    The ally party has been incapacitated...
    CHAPTER COMPLETE!!

    EXPERIENCE:

    +10 - Successfully made a stand against Lucian

    TOTAL EXP GAIN: 10

    Alexandra: 5/36 --- 15/36
    Next Level: 10/36
    Current DD: 0/10

    Kat: 16/36 --- 26/36
    Next Level: 26/36
    Current DD: 0/10

    Helena: 27/36 --- 37/36
    Level UP!
    3 Stat Points gained!
    Next Level: 1/347
    Current DD: 0/10

    Mai: 26/36 --- 36/36
    Level UP!
    3 Stat Points gained!
    Next Level: 0/284
    Current DD: 0/10

    Stry: 8/24 --- 18/24
    Next Level: 18/24
    Current DD: 0/10

    Skill Points Awarded!

    +1: Helena, Mai
    +0: Alexandra, Kat, Stry

    The Party receives 1,000,000 Gold!

    Items found:
    ---Alarm Machina x1

    Edit your profiles, please~  Update will come shortly.
     
  17. Nothing but broken bodies surrounded Lucian now as he paced calmly about the cobblestone.  They were all effectively about as dead as could be.  He stopped by Kat's body and gazed down at her human form.  He felt nothing for her; why had she gotten in the way?  Why had she been so desperate to find him again?  He wanted her to live her own life, not cling to him.  Maybe she could have been spared if she had chosen a different path, but this was the path she had chosen for herself.  Lucian now knew that once a path had been chosen, there was no easy way to divert one from it.  Whatever was to happen would happen; one was trapped, waiting for things to run their course.  The Restocasian sighed and began to pace into the city but was stopped as a figure appeared before him.  Wearing a baker's regalia, Lucian tilted his head.  Were not the citizens evacuated?  He had expected nothing less from the defense systems that Archaea held in place.  Civilian casualties weren't exactly the goal for this particular raid so it mattered not to him, but what did this man and his glowing blue eyes have in his mind?  Insanity surely if he thought he was going to spar with a Restocasian and win.  Lucian bothered not to draw his blade which he had sheathed quite some time ago.  He could use a spell to end this pathetic human's life if need be, but Lucian was curious.

    "Human, what brings you to this gate of destruction?" he called out with a smirk on his face, curiosity gleaming in his beautiful eyes.  "Should you not have evacuated long ago?!  Why remain in this doomed city?"

    The man stayed quiet and held his hand out, an elaborate rapier appearing in a blast of azure flame.  With a wave of that very rapier, three blasts of azure flame jetted towards Lucian who cockily remained in place, his barrier forming to prevent the attack from doing any harm only to have it shatter, the flames lapping at his clothes and skin hungrily sending him hurtling backwards.  He performed a flip in midair and landed upright, smoke trailing into the air from his clothing and body which was smeared with ash and scarred with burns.  "How in the absolute hell?!" Lucian screamed out suddenly, his body feeling weak all of a sudden.  "This...this power...!  It cannot be!!"  He tried to gaze his assailant in the eyes but they were obscured by an ornate butterfly masquerade mask.  The smile upon the person's face was noticeable enough, however.  There was no doubt that Lucian was afraid.  How could there possibly be a user of Spirit here?  HOW?!  Where had they come from?  His assailant was upon him suddenly, rapier blazing with that beautiful azure flame.  Lucian drew his own blade which surged with darkness and blocked the blow.  A horizontal slash and jab, easily blocked and evaded, but more piercing jabs came upon the Restocasian and he was forced back, unable to dodge each precise yet unpredictable strike.  The heat of the flames made him nervous and he flashed out of existence, reappearing behind the baker for a lunging jab but just as easily as he teleported, so did the baker, exiting out in a blast of azure flame.  A swift strike came from above and Lucian was ready to block it but it was just a feint!  The baker scattered into flame again reappearing and slashing Lucian with such force that he was sent tumbling and rolling along the cobblestone.  Mid-roll, he managed to correct himself, his feet skidding across the road until he was able to brake himself.  A large sphere of azure flame was now hurtling through the air towards him.  Growling, he waved a hand causing light to pour down upon the sphere, quashing it instantly.  Reforming the light into spears, he sent them flying towards his foe in an attempt to cage him, hoping to buy some time for an escape, but it was hopeless.  A shattering sound filled the air as glass-like shards of energy splintered off of the assailant and reformed around him to form a barrier.  The spears bounced off with ease.  It was here that Lucian realized he was outmatched.

    "To think it would come to this..." Lucian muttered to himself, completely distressed.  He waved his hand and small spheres of light scattered all over the area, drawing in more light quickly to create glyphs on the walls of building, in the sky, and on the street.  Snapping his fingers, the glyphs didn't bother to charge as they unleashed their blinding energy from all directions.  Lucian took off running, his body dissipating as he ran faster and faster until there was nothing left but a trail of dust outside the city leading to only the gods knew where.  As the arrays finished their blasts, the assailant stood where he was completely unscathed from the spells.  He strode forth until he reached the collection of bodies.

    "My friends..." the figure murmured, bending down to touch Helena's cold hand.  The man removed his butterfly mask, but no one was around to see what lie beneath.  Well, at least he thought no one would be around, but a voice broke the silence to prove otherwise.

    "You should put that back on," a hissing voice emanated above before a giant reptile landed on the ground in a storm of brown feathers.  "If one of them wakes up you're going to be embarrassed.  Besides, I kinda like that I'm the only one that's seen your true face."

    "Nothus...they're...they're not going to just wake up," the baker murmured sadly, tears running down his face.  "We were too late.  It's going to take more than mere light magic to save them..."

    Nothus remained firm and resolute in the presence of his best friend.  He flicked his tongue out in thought before shrugging his shoulders.

    "We'd best get started then."

    * * *

    The sound of rain.  It was such a familiar sound, the alluring song of the water drops bouncing off a tin roof and pelting the stone roads.  It was a pretty heavy downpour from the sounds of it, monotonous and never changing as if it had no plans to ever let up.  So peaceful was it, but...how could she hear it?  The blonde noblewoman, Alexandra Valentine, lie on the floor in a dark living room in some house that would prove unfamiliar to her.  How could thoughts be passing through her mind though?  She should have been dead.  The dead did not have thoughts such as these.  She murmured something in her sleep and took in a sharp breath before jolting upright suddenly.  She placed a hand over her heart and felt the beating.  It was cold in...wherever she was.  She blinked and looked around, her eyes adjusting to the dark room.  There was a window nearby with a small dresser beneath it.  She tried to stand and found it hard to get her balance but she managed to do so and wobbled over to the window.  It was daytime, but the sun was obscured by a seemingly infinite expanse of dark rainclouds that poured their contents down mercilessly upon what seemed to be a large city.  Turning around, she noticed her allies were also lying on the soft carpet of the room.  How had they all gotten here?  Where was here even?  They were in some sort of house, the objects within making it seemed as though it were inhabited, but the thick layers of dust upon the trinkets and picture frames along with the cobwebs in the corners told another story.  She went around checking everyone's pulses.  They were definitely alive.  But how?  Taking a seat on a small couch against the wall of the living room, she took to thinking.  She could remember much about her supposed final moments except the blinding light and the searing pain before everything just ceased.

    "How did we survive?" she pondered aloud, feeling horridly alone and wishing one of her allies would wake up.
     
  18. The rain pounded heavily against the roof, the walls, the dusty windows of the old house. The dying embers of a now cold fire smoldered in the fireplace to one side of the room, an old woman staring at them from a battered recliner. Here and there were small puddles, despite the house being sealed away from the rain; it looked as if someone, or something, had just come inside. The puddles made a distinct path to the windowsill...

    ... And there the creature was, a black five-tailed fox with white markings and slate gray eyes. Its fur was damp, its tails drooping slightly as it watched the rain plummet down to the muddy earth. The fox looked over its shoulder as the woman lets out a hoarse cough.

    "Ah, but this weather hurts these old bones," The woman muttered. "It's too cold out there. Lucky I was here to let the guardian of the house in, though, hm?" The woman chuckled before coughing again. The fox leaped from the windowsill and approached the woman, nuzzling her hand with its snout. Its ears flattened as she ran her hand weakly over the top of Its head- before they both jumped at a crash of thunder outside--


    ...

    Stry opened his eyes.

    He was in an unfamiliar setting, fully in fox form, and too dazed to immediately figure out what was happening. The Nogitsune visibly stirred, turning over from his side onto his belly, eyes half open as he sniffed the carpet. Dusty, old, out of use, basically what he'd expected. The fox stretched like a cat as he contemplated standing up, before raising his head--

    ... Oh. Right.

    He watched Alexandra mill about, sitting on the old couch to one side of the room. Not the old woman which his groggy, half-awake mind had expected. And with realizing this, the memories came back from the battle. He and the others has made their verbal stands against the enemy... before getting totally defeated by him. This didn't sit right with Stry, however, because then... ... How in hell are we alive?

    Not having quite the energy to put up the illusion of his human form, the fox stood and leaped onto the back of the couch, sitting near one end and watching Alexandra curiously for a moment, before glancing at the rest of the room. Everyone seemed to be breathing; at least they didn't appear to have any casualties.

    But how? He wouldn't have spared us, would he?
     
  19. There had been no glory in death.

    Helena had been grown, raised, whetted on stories that spoke wonders of the glory of death in battle. An honourable death; the only true way to go! That was what all the stories and legends said. Helena now knew that to be nothing more than a lie. She had seen an honourable woman mocked and bloodied on the cold hard ground, cast aside by a man cowering above her, lording over her with his fanaticism and his malice. Helena had been there herself - subjugated to kneel before someone who fancied himself akin to the Gods with the power he thought himself so capable of wielding. She had fought her damnedest, for the most fleeting of moments, on the battlefield.

    And she had died.

    Beyond the piercing light that the bastard of a man, Lucian, had cast upon them. A dazzling array that melted her skin and blazed in her eyes until she knew she would surely never see out of them again. She had died what some would call a "hero's death"... but they would never know just how wrong they had been. Helena considered herself by no means a hero. She died a wanted woman - an assassin, working as barely more than a pawn in a chess game that she did not know the full extent of. What was worse? Dying had been in the midsts of the most miserable and lonely feelings of her entire existence. She died with a vengeance. She died with a score to settle. And now, as the blackness folded around her like a mourning veil on the funeral she may never receive, she would die with her debts being left unpaid, with words still lingering unsaid on her lips, and perhaps if she was particularly unlucky, without a name placed to her corpse.

    No glory. No parade of seraphic trumpets and clouds parting to greet her on the other side. Just blackness.

    ~ ~ ~

    The rain tinkled gently on the windowpane and drummed loudly on the tin roof. It was an oddly tranquil sort of rain. Rain that Helena could not believe she was hearing as she woke up. It was like she was in the middle of a dream that was slowly subsiding... churning her out into the coldness of reality. There was something wrong. She shouldn't even be here. She shouldn't even be alive. All she could remember was the heat radiating from the light, the anguish inside of her at dying at the feet of a man of such flimsy moral fibre... but it all seemed so fully distant. And now everything was so dark... so cold... so muted...

    Helena began to quietly cry, although she could not tell whether her tears stemmed from the fact that she was stunned and in shock that she was even alive, or whether she was so sad and alone. She cried for what she assumed was a solid minute before attempting to move, or even look at the world around her. Get it t'gether, lass, she mentally scolded herself, It's worse if y'let yerself cry about it. You ain't the only victim in this world. As she finally cracked her eyes open and wiped away the tears cascading down her cheeks, she found herself staring simply at a wall, and had to peel her face off of the floor. Her clothes were damp and it made her shiver violently. "I'm a bloody mess..." she grunted as she pulled herself into a mostly-upright position, presently leaning herself back against the wall she had been staring blankly at.

    At this point, Helena wasn't even sure if she was happy or sad, or what she was quite feeling. She gazed at the only window in the room, albeit distantly. She was vaguely aware that a feminine voice said something, but there was no part of her that attempted to make sense of what was said, let alone to respond. All that there was was a distinct empty feeling, and a feeling of distance between her and the outside world. Helena felt really bitter thinking about it, but she shut her eyes and tried not to think about the way she was thinking, and let out a deep sigh. At this point, she decided, it really didn't matter where she was.

    Guess I should feel relieved to be alive... she mentally conjectured. And in some ways, there was a bit of that feeling. But at this point, she needed time to recover. She wasn't in any rush to get up. She needed time to soak all of this in. She really had no concept of what 'this' was anymore - too shaken for that. Looking around her, she was able to vaguely discern the amorphous forms of those around her. There was a silhouetted girl on the couch, and the form of what appeared to be a... fox? sitting in wait across from the girl. This seemed to rouse some reaction deep within her... she'd been a hunter, right? Instinctively, her hand went to the nape of her neck to reach for... her quiver, which was not there. Helena was without her bow, and there was a fox inside of wherever they were. Could it be that the fates were taunting her?
     
  20. He woke with a start, and a gasp. A pale hand came from underneath the thick, ornate purple robe that was wrapped around him, clutching at his chest. Where was he? What had he been doing? He couldn't remember what he was last doing. He remembered his subordinates being annihilated, he remembered being cast out, he remembered becoming an exile. But none of that led up to where he was now.

    Get it together, Silas...


    A high-pitched groan emanated from the man's lips.  Silas rolled on his side, curling up slightly as he groaned once more. At this moment he looked every part of a weakened woman, from his high-pitched voice to his soft  features. The cloak that was wrapped around his form obscured that fact that he was male, and--even  though he had a quite girlish figure--did not actually have breasts. His breathing sped up as he pulled his cloak around himself tighter, slowly becoming more and more consciously aware of his surroundings.

    "Where...?" was all the sound he managed to make, his voice as feminine as his features; quiet, raspy, and weak, yet his voice was almost unmistakably belonging to a woman. His soft, amber-brown eyes slowly fluttered open, glancing around the dark, dilapidated living room. He saw a blonde woman on the couch, an athletic-looking woman leaning against the wall, and a...fox? I'm definitely dreaming,  thought Silas. He slowly shifted into an upright position, drawing his knees to his chest so he could maintain his cloak-cocoon. His eyes narrowed suspiciously at the fox that made its perch on the back of the couch.

    A million confused thoughts swirled through Silas's mind, once again about his location, the events leading up to him being passed out on the floor of an old, dusty house, why he was with a bunch of strangers--yet the question that escaped his mouth was none of these.

    "Why are you on the back of the couch? You're not a cat..."

    He couldn't even manage to utter his moronic question with a hint of intelligence. No, he sounded mostly like a drunken teenage girl. A scarred pale hand with slim yet rough fingers darted out from beneath the purple tent of a cloak wrapped around Silas. He felt around for a moment, before his hand was retracted back from view, hidden once more in the recesses of his cloak. His other hand came out, mirroring his other side's actions. A look of frustration crossed his features when he realized he had no idea where his trusty katana was. Once more, his hand was withdrawn.

    For the time being, Silas would just have to sit in the middle of the dusty and old living room and wait until he was feeling more awake before beginning a search for his trusty weapon. Until that point, he'd sit with his arms crossed, his cloak wrapped around him, and an expression of irritation on his face.
     

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