Fantasy Anthroterra (1:1, closed, scantilycladsnail & ThieviusRaccoonus)

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Volcanor​

A volcanic city glowing with molten rivers and fiery light. Ashhaven’s citizens are resilient, their strength forged by living in a world of fire and heat. Its culture values endurance and self-control, reflecting the balance required to survive in such a harsh environment.

​

Name: Darius
Soulvow: Sandwrought, The Dune Guardian
Player Level: A
Soulvow Level: 1

​

Name: Lyssia, the Firefly
Soulvow: Temperance of Light
Player Level: 2
Soulvow Level: 3

​

 

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Frosthaven​

A glacial city hidden within an icy cavern. Frosthaven is a world of snow and ice, where survival depends on discipline and cooperation. Its citizens are practical and reserved, their culture shaped by the unforgiving cold.​

Name: Tova
Soulvow: Dolphinus! (A dolphin.)
Player Level: A
Soulvow Level: 1




Name: Aiolu
Soulvow: Narra the Narwhal (A narwhal.)
Player Level: A
Soulvow Level: 1

 

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Thistledrift​

A nomadic city that travels. Thistledrift’s people are resourceful and cooperative, adapting to life in motion. Their mobile city is a marvel of ingenuity, with structures built to shift and sway with their colossal hosts. Neighboring city of Redcrest.

​

Name: Clover
Soulvow: Sun Wukong
Player Level: 2
Soulvow Level: 2




Name: Buzz
Soulvow: Beemon
Player Level: A
Soul Vow Level: 1

 

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Ramura​

Participants:

• Mordecai (Goatkin): Soulvow - Wrath
  • Player Level: 2
  • Soulvow Level: 3
• Ephraim (Goatkin): Soulvow - Mercy
  • Player Level: 2
  • Soulvow Level: 2

 

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Redcrest​

A desert mesa city perched high on rugged plateaus. Redcrest is a place of strength and agility, where survival requires quick thinking and adaptability. Its culture celebrates grit and resilience, with its citizens priding themselves on their independence.
​

Name: Sky, the Parakeetkin
Soulvow: The Bells Orchestra
Player Level: A
Soulvow Level: 1





Name: Bazza, "The Brush Brawler"
Soulvow: Ironbinds
Player Level: 2
Soulvow Level: 3

 

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Evershade​

A shadowed forest city illuminated by bioluminescent plants and fungi. Evershade’s citizens live in harmony with their dark, glowing environment, valuing patience and observation. Its quiet, hidden nature keeps it isolated from much of the outside world.
​

Name: Gloam
Soulvow: Gluttony
Player Level: 2
Soulvow Level: 2





Name: Slyva, the Spiderkin
Soulvow: The Silkweaver
Player Level: A
Soulvow Level: 2

 

[scantilycladsnail]

The glowing walls in the waiting room dimmed for a moment, then flared to life once more with new, shimmering text that hovered in the air:

"Select a competitor who stood out to you. The reason will become clear soon."

The message pulsed softly before fading, and in its place, icons representing the contestants began to materialize on the walls, each one accompanied by their name and Soulvow. The room seemed to buzz with quiet anticipation, as if the very air was alive with the energy of what was to come.

---

Ephraim furrowed her brow, glancing at Mercy, who had perched beside her on the stone bench, her wings folded neatly at her sides. "What’s this about?" Ephraim muttered, her arms crossing tightly over her chest. "Why make us choose now, before we even know why it matters?"

Mercy tilted her head, her sharp eyes scanning the glowing icons. Her gaze lingered on a few of the names—the armored knight, the scarecrow, the shadowed spiderkin—each one radiating a unique kind of power. "It’s strategy," she said, her voice calm but thoughtful. "They want to see how we think. Who we respect. Who we fear." She turned her golden eyes toward Ephraim, a small smile tugging at her beak. "It’s all part of the game."

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Mordecai had been sitting on the ground, his back resting against a stone column, one hand idly stroking through Wrath’s flickering fur. The skeletal beast sprawled lazily across his lap, his tail giving an occasional, slow thump against the floor. The quiet moment between them was a familiar one—bonding in silence, their connection stronger in the absence of words.

But then, the walls pulsed with energy, and the voice rang out, its message filling the chamber.

Wrath’s ears perked instantly. His body tensed as he lifted his head, the glow in his hollow eyes sharpening as he listened. Mordecai sighed softly, pressing a hand briefly against his temple before shifting his weight to stand. Wrath was already on his feet, watching as the screen flickered to life before them, the names and Soulvows of the other competitors appearing in steady succession.

Mordecai stepped forward, scanning the display, his expression unreadable. He didn't speak at first, simply watching as the names cycled through.

Then, finally, he spoke.

"Wrath."

Wrath turned his head up toward him, ears twitching. He didn’t need an explanation—he understood.

"Choose."

Mordecai took a step back, folding his arms behind his back, watching as Wrath’s focus shifted. A strange energy rippled through the room, something ancient and unseen. Wrath’s fur bristled as he stepped closer to the glowing text, eyes narrowing in deep thought—if such a thing could be said of a beast like him.

Then, with sudden certainty, Wrath leapt up, his front paws landing heavily against the base of the screen as his voice rang out in a sharp, decisive bark.

Karn.

Mordecai exhaled through his nose, watching as Wrath made his choice. He had always let his Soulvow decide in moments like these—instinct over calculation. He nodded, stepping away from the screen as Wrath turned and trotted back to his side.

But before settling, Wrath’s gaze flicked to Mercy, his form still tense, his energy still restless. His voice, when it came, echoed only for her to hear.

"Mercy... I think the other fourteen are here." His voice carried an unusual weight, a cautious edge. "Not all of them. I don’t know who… but I can sense them."

He gave a low growl, his skeletal maw pulling back slightly in unease. Whatever this trial truly was, it had already begun.

 

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Ephraim
Ephraim stared at the shimmering names on the wall, her arms crossed and her jaw tight. The weight of Wrath’s warning echoed faintly in her mind, though it came through distorted, secondhand. Her eyes swept across the list—each name pulsing faintly, brimming with potential meaning.

She felt a gentle tug in her chest, subtle but unmistakable. Mercy wasn’t speaking, but the bond they shared pulsed with a quiet insistence, a guiding nudge that felt more like instinct than a suggestion. Ephraim’s gaze flickered over the names again, lingering briefly on Clover, then on Astra, but something felt off.

Her eyes finally landed on Lyssia.

The moment her focus settled, she felt it—that soft resonance from Mercy, a confirmation that hummed faintly in her chest. Ephraim’s brow furrowed, her hand moving instinctively toward her heart, the warmth of the bond strengthening.

“Lyssia,” Ephraim murmured to herself, the name leaving her lips like a realization rather than a question. She stepped forward, her hesitation easing as her hand hovered over the glowing icon. With a steady breath, she pressed it.

The name lit up brightly, locking in the selection, and Ephraim stepped back, exhaling as she glanced at Mercy. The harpy perched silently, her sharp golden eyes resting on the wall. There was no need for words—their connection had done all the speaking necessary.

---

Selection Rankings:​

1. Mordecai: Selected 5 times (Avarice, Riven, Karn, Red, Tova)
2. Lyssia: Selected 3 times (Ephraim, Kikumura, Gloam)
3. Ephraim: Selected 2 times (Finn, Clover)
4. Astra: Selected 1 time (Cyan)
5. Kikumura: Selected 1 time (Astra)
6. Cain Cobra: Selected 1 time (Zephyr)
7. Zephyr: Selected 1 time (Cain Cobra)
8. Tova: Selected 1 time (Darius)
9. Clover: Selected 1 time (Aiolu)
10. Aiolu: Selected 1 time (Buzz)
11. Slyva: Selected 1 time (Sky)
12. Bazza: Selected 1 time (Slyva)
13. Riven: Selected 1 time (Bazza)
14. Gloam: Selected 1 time (Lyssia)

Mordecai’s name shone brightest, standing at the top with five selections, his prominence impossible to ignore. Lyssia’s name glowed just beneath, her presence quiet yet significant.

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

As the final rankings settled on the screen, Mordecai’s eyes narrowed slightly as his name shone brightest at the top. Five selections. He exhaled through his nose, his expression unreadable. “…Well,” he murmured, his voice flat—neither surprised nor particularly impressed. It was simply an acknowledgment.

Wrath, however, had an entirely different reaction.

The skeletal beast let out a sharp, elated bark before launching into an energetic display of excitement. He hopped in place, his form flickering between solid and shadow as he shifted briefly into his floating head form, then back again. His paws thudded against the chamber floor as he spun in place, his tail whipping behind him in a blur of movement. Then, in an act of pure exhilaration, he began chasing his own tail, his cackling laugh ringing through the space.

Mordecai glanced at him, unimpressed, one brow arching. "Of course you're enjoying this," he muttered, rolling his eyes as Wrath—now dizzy from his own antics—stumbled slightly before catching himself. The beast steadied, shaking out his fur before turning back to Mordecai with another triumphant bark, his entire form buzzing with excitement.

Mordecai shook his head before shifting his gaze back to the screen, then toward Ephraim. His voice was quieter now, more grounded, but carrying an undeniable weight.

"So it begins."

---

Bazza
Bazza squinted at the screen, his ears flicking as he read over the names again, just to be sure. But no—there it was, plain as day. Mordecai, sitting at the top with five bloody picks.

“The hell??” he blurted, throwing his arms up before shoving his hands onto his hips, his tail thumping against the ground in frustration. “Who is this Mordecai bloke? What makes him so damn popular?”

He turned sharply toward the nearest competitor, gesturing wildly at the glowing rankings. “Oi, five picks?! That’s rigged, mate! Ain’t no way some random goat’s got that much pull! He got a fan club or somethin’?”

Bazza snorted, shaking his head as he crossed his arms. “Bet he’s some stiff, all quiet ‘n mysterious. One o’ those types. Proper ‘oh, look at me, I’m so serious, ooooh,’” he mocked, waving his hands dramatically before rolling his eyes. “Tch. We’ll see how long that lasts once we’re in the ring.”

Still grumbling under his breath, he flopped back into a chair, kicking his feet up on the nearest table. “Mordecai, huh?” he muttered, stretching his arms behind his head. “Alright, mate. Let’s see what all the fuss is about.”

 

[scantilycladsnail]

The Soul Games had begun.

One by one, the doors to each contestant's waiting room creaked open, revealing the world beyond. The moment a player stepped through, the environment around them seemed to shift and ripple, bending reality into a strange, unfamiliar landscape. It wasn’t like any one place—it was all places, a patchwork quilt of terrain and architecture stitched together into a surreal, miniature city.

Blossoming trees from Starhaven stood impossibly close to towering desert dunes from Dunemire. Molten rivers from Volcanor coursed alongside Frosthaven's icy ridges, the two elements existing side by side without conflict. Empty Residential buildings of all shapes and sizes dotted the area, some humble and quaint, others grand and imposing, as though plucked from entirely different worlds.

In the distance, a massive coliseum loomed, its jagged silhouette dominating the horizon. It seemed to pulse faintly with energy, as if waiting for something—or someone—to give it purpose.​

---

DAY 1 PHASE (22 Players)​

As the contestants stepped fully into the city, they noticed the Soulvows roaming the streets. These figures weren’t human, nor entirely alive—they were constructs of the Soul Keepers, their forms shimmering faintly as if made of mist and light. Most of them seemed focused on their tasks, running a large dining hall in the heart of the city. Inside, long tables were laden with an abundance of food and drink, offering a strange sense of comfort in an otherwise eerie environment.

Above all, there was a strange hum in the air, a subtle pressure that seemed to settle over every player the moment they stepped into the city. It wasn’t oppressive, but it was noticeable—like a quiet reminder that this place wasn’t truly theirs.

Then, the rules of the Soul Games were made clear.

A glowing sigil appeared in the sky, its words translating into the common tongue that all players could now understand thanks to the presence of a translator Soulvow. The message echoed through their minds, calm but firm:

A voice from above announced: “Welcome to the Soul Games. During the Day Phase, all combat abilities are restricted. The environment has been crafted to reflect your origins, and there is ample housing for all players. You may stay together or separate as you choose. This phase is meant for interaction and preparation. The restriction on combat will be lifted when the Night Phase approaches; if needed. As a reminder, player vs player during the day phase will lead to immediate disqualification from the initiator. Good luck.”

• The sigil dissolved, leaving the players to take in their surroundings.​
• Some immediately began exploring the randomized cityscape, testing the boundaries of the environment or sizing up their fellow contestants.​
• Others remained near the dining hall, watching silently as NPC Soulvows moved with uncanny precision, their every action efficient and purposeful.​

Ephraim stepped out of the doorway, Mercy quickly poofing back into her void for the time being.

“This place…” Ephraim muttered, her voice low as she took it all in. The patchwork design of the city felt disorienting, yet strangely deliberate. She glanced toward the coliseum in the distance, a knot forming in her stomach.

The city stretched out before them, vast and strange, its design random yet intentional. The Soul Games had begun in earnest, and every decision from this point forward would carry weight.

---

Key Locations

1. The Coliseum
   • A towering structure on the horizon, glowing faintly with golden light. It serves as the focal point for some night-phase events, with grand arches and a commanding presence. The coliseum appears both ancient and otherworldly, exuding an aura of battle and determination.
2. The Soulvow Dining Hall
   • Located near the center of the city, the dining hall is a large, glowing building with long tables inside, laden with food. Soulvows (Manifested from the Soul-Keepers) manage the space with precise efficiency. It radiates warmth and serves as a neutral ground for interaction among players during the day phase.

Residential Buildings​

1. The Ivystone Manor
   • A sprawling stone manor covered in ivy, with large arched windows and multiple floors. Inside, it features shared common rooms, and private quarters on the upper levels. The design feels ancient yet inviting, with a mix of rustic and refined elements.
2. The Crystalline Pavilion
   • A glowing crystalline structure located near the icy ridge and Glimmering Pool, its translucent walls refracting light in mesmerizing patterns. The building is angular yet elegant, with soft, pulsing lights emanating from within. Inside, the space is serene and futuristic, featuring shared areas with crystalline seating and shimmering alcoves for rest. The entire structure feels like it’s made of frozen starlight, blending perfectly with the frosty terrain nearby.
3. The Blossom Chalet
   • A large wooden building surrounded by blossoming cherry trees. The chalet has a traditional design, with sliding doors, wooden floors, and paper screens separating sleeping areas. The central room is a shared space for relaxation, with the faint scent of blossoms permeating the air.
4. The Ember Hearth Lodge
   • Nestled close to the Molten Flow, this lodge is built from dark volcanic stone and reinforced with obsidian. Its walls are etched with glowing, fiery runes that pulse faintly in rhythm with the nearby molten river. The central feature of the lodge is a massive hearth that radiates warmth, lighting the shared communal spaces with a cozy orange glow.

Nature Landmarks​

1. The Blossom Grove
   • A serene area filled with cherry blossom trees that shed glowing petals into the air. The ground is covered in a soft blanket of pink and white, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
2. The Molten Flow
   • A narrow river of molten rock cutting through part of the city, glowing faintly in the evening light. It emanates heat but remains calm, adding a stark contrast to nearby icy landscapes.
3. The Icy Ridge
   • A towering sheet of ice with jagged edges, exuding cold mist that drifts into the air. The ridge seems unnaturally placed, but its presence is striking.
4. The Glimmering Pool
   • A circular body of water that glows faintly blue. Its surface is unnaturally still, and faint ripples of light shimmer beneath its depths.
5. The Crystalline Archway
   • A large, shimmering arch made of crystal, standing tall at the edge of the residential district. It catches the light beautifully, refracting it in all directions.

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Mordecai’s gaze swept across the surreal landscape, the unnatural patchwork of terrains blending together in a way that unsettled him. Wrath padded beside him, ears flicking, his red eyes darting to every strange structure and shifting landmark, taking it all in with a mix of intrigue and excitement. But Mordecai’s focus had already sharpened elsewhere.

The moment the sigil appeared in the sky, something in him snapped tight. His breath hitched. His fingers curled into fists at his sides. A sharp exhale flared through his nostrils, his jaw tightening as tension rolled through his body like a coiled spring ready to snap. His vision blurred for a second, not from confusion, but from something primal—something protective.

"Janus..." The name slipped from his lips like a growl, barely more than a breath, yet heavy enough to carry the weight of his rage.

They were here. Janus and Chatterbuck were here.

Zorlin. Cervis. Mordecai’s gut twisted, the old anger stirring deep, feeding into that protective instinct that had never left him since the day he'd sworn to keep Janus safe. He wasn’t thinking of the Games anymore. He was thinking of the threats lurking beneath them, the hands that had already tried to break Janus before. His breathing came sharp, uneven, his mind spiraling toward every possible outcome.

He squeezed his eyes shut, forcing himself to press his fingers against his temple, grounding himself, pulling back before his own emotions swallowed him whole. He needed control. He needed to think.

A slow, measured breath. A release of tension, but not all of it.

“…We should find a place to settle,” he muttered, his voice low, steady—controlled, but only just. His eyes flickered to Ephraim, to Wrath, as he worked to rein himself in. He had a job to do. A mission.

And the Games had just begun.

 

[scantilycladsnail]

Ephraim's gaze shifted toward the Blossom Chalet in the distance, nestled among the cherry trees, its warm, inviting atmosphere standing out against the more imposing structures. “What about there?” she suggested, her tone lighter now. “It’s quiet, out of the way, and probably better for the both of us than something cold and closed off; plus it reminds me of Ramura. Maybe they put it there for us?"

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Mordecai lingered in his thoughts for a moment, his mind still caught on the weight of what—or who—awaited them in the Games. But as Ephraim’s voice cut through the haze, his gaze flickered toward the Blossom Chalet, its warm, familiar presence nestled beneath the cherry trees. Something about it did feel intentional, placed there almost like an echo of home.

He exhaled slowly, nodding. "Yeah… let’s check that one out," he said, his voice quieter, still carrying the weight of his thoughts.

Before he could take the lead, Wrath gave an excited bark and took off ahead of them, clearly deciding that he was in charge of guiding them to their new shelter. Mordecai sighed but didn’t argue, his pace measured as he followed after the bounding Soulvow.

By the time they arrived, Mordecai had fallen into the steady rhythm of settling in, unloading their supplies and organizing their quarters for the days ahead. The process was methodical, something to keep his hands busy while his mind worked through the unease still settled in his chest. Eventually, when everything was in place, he stepped outside, letting the cool air and the distant scent of blossoms ease the tension knotting his shoulders.

He found a quiet spot beneath a tree in the garden, sinking onto the ground with a familiar weight. The rough wooden stem of his tobacco pipe rested between his fingers as he took a slow draw, the faint trail of smoke curling into the air. Wrath lay beside him, his tail gently thumping against the earth, content to watch the movement of other competitors drifting through the city.

Mordecai’s gaze followed them, his mind turning over thoughts of the ones who had chosen him—five names that carried unknown expectations. But for now, he simply let himself sit, let the world move around him, let the quiet settle in.

 

[scantilycladsnail]

Ephraim was standing just outside the Blossom Chalet, her arms crossed loosely as she watched Mordecai unpack their supplies. The grove was peaceful, the faint hum of cherry blossoms drifting on the air. Mercy wasn’t manifested, but Ephraim could feel her presence—a quiet hum of approval in her chest. She leaned lightly against one of the wooden posts near the entrance, her sharp eyes scanning the surreal surroundings.

Her focus shifted as the soft sound of footsteps approached. A small figure came into view first—Clover, the mousekin from Thistledrift, with his friendly smile and an easygoing gait. Behind him was Buzz, the bee-winged woman, her quiet energy and gentle buzz creating a sense of calm.

Clover gave an enthusiastic wave as he stepped closer, his bright eyes flicking between Ephraim and Mordecai. “Hey there! Didn’t think we’d find anyone else setting up this fast. This place is…” He glanced up at the cherry blossoms, his tail swishing behind him as he took in the peaceful scene. “Well, it’s something special.”

Ephraim raised a brow, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth. “You scouting?”

Buzz chuckled softly, her wings buzzing lightly as she hovered just behind Clover. “We’re here to ask, actually,” she said, her voice calm and pleasant. “This place has plenty of space, and, well, it’s hard to pass up something this nice. Mind if we join you two?”

Clover nodded, gesturing at the chalet with a wide grin. “We’re not looking to step on hooves or anything. Just figured this spot’s got more than enough room for four. Buzz and I… well, we’re pretty low-maintenance, and we’re not bad company either.”

Ephraim glanced back at Mordecai, looking for his input.

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Mordecai remained seated beneath the tree, his fingers idly rolling the stem of his pipe as his gaze flicked toward Clover and Buzz. His mind was still tangled in heavier thoughts, and while their arrival wasn’t unwelcome, he wasn’t entirely present in the moment either. He gave a slow shrug, barely lifting his hand in a halfhearted wave.

“As long as they can handle Wrath. You know how he is,” he muttered, his voice low and absent.

Right on cue, Wrath sprang up with a burst of excitement, his tail wagging as he barked toward the newcomers. The stark contrast between Mordecai’s quiet mood and Wrath’s uncontained energy was almost comical. Wrath pranced forward, sniffing at the air in their direction before giving another sharp bark, his posture playfully eager.

 

[scantilycladsnail]

Buzz gave a soft laugh, her wings buzzing faintly as Wrath’s playful energy rippled toward them. “Looks like someone’s not shy,” she said, stepping back slightly to give the Soulvow some space. Her golden compound eyes flicked toward Ephraim, catching the way her expression softened—just a little—at Wrath’s antics.

Ephraim pushed off the post she had been leaning against, jerking her head toward the rest of the chalet. “Come on, Buzz. I’ll show you what we’ve set up so far,” she said, her tone steady, though there was a subtle edge of relief in her voice. “Plenty of room inside, and I’ll show you where to stash your stuff.”


Clover watched Buzz and Ephraim disappear into the chalet, his paws resting on his hips as he gave a small shake of his head. “Guess that leaves us to get acquainted, huh?” he said lightly, turning back toward Mordecai with an easy grin. His tail swished behind him as he stepped closer, his gait relaxed but purposeful.

He paused a few feet away, giving Wrath a wide berth as the Soulvow regarded him with glowing red eyes, tail still wagging faintly. Clover’s ears twitched slightly, but his expression didn’t falter as he crouched just a bit to meet Wrath’s gaze. “You’re something else, big guy,” he said with a low chuckle. “Bet you’ve got a hell of a story.”

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Mordecai raised an eyebrow as Clover approached, then turned his gaze back to the empty space in front of him, continuing to smoke his pipe. He remained silent for a moment, letting the conversation hang before exhaling a slow sigh of mild annoyance.

Wrath, on the other hand, sat eagerly, his tail thumping against the ground as he stared at Clover with bright, glowing eyes. Then, unable to contain himself any longer, he burst into excited barking:

"I AM WRATH. BEAST OF VENGEANCE. I HAVE SLAIN MANY IN MY TIMELINES. ALL HAVE FALLEN BEFORE ME. I AM A LEGEND. I AM THE WRATH. THE SHADOWS IN THE NIGHT."

Clover, however, only heard:

bark bark bark bark bark whineeeeee bark!

 

[scantilycladsnail]

WORLD UPDATES:

Location	Residents	Notes
The Ivystone Manor	- Red the Hero! (Rustside) - Cyan (Rustside) - Kikumura (Whisperspire) - Cain Cobra (Whisperspire) - Gloam (Evershade) - Slyva (Evershade)	- A mix of bold and cautious personalities. - Residents quietly size up potential allies or threats.
The Crystalline Pavilion	- Astra (Starhaven) - Finn (Starhaven) - Tova (Frosthaven) - Aiolu (Frosthaven) - Avarice (LAOS) - Riven (LAOS)	- A hub for intellect and precision. - The icy ridge complements Avarice's Cryos. Riven balances with quiet focus.
The Ember Hearth Lodge	- Darius (Volcanor) - Lyssia (Volcanor) - Zephyr (Dunemire) - Karn (Dunemire) - Sky, the Parakeetkin (Redcrest) - Bazza, "The Brush Brawler" (Redcrest)	- A center for fiery determination and resilience. - Sky’s agility and Bazza’s boldness align with the lodge’s intensity.
The Blossom Chalet	- Mordecai (Ramura) - Ephraim (Ramura) - Clover (Thistledrift) - Buzz (Thistledrift)	- A peaceful retreat. - A quieter group focused on calm and reflection.

---

Clover’s grin widened as Wrath’s barking echoed through the air, the intensity of the sound making his ears flick instinctively. Still crouched, he raised a hand in mock surrender, his tail swishing behind him in a mix of amusement and caution.

“Alright, alright, I get it! Big, bad, and terrifying, huh?” Clover chuckled, his tone light as he held his ground. “You’ve got the whole ‘unstoppable force of nature’ thing down pat, big guy. Very convincing; you know if I didn’t know better, I’d think you were just a big puppy looking for belly rubs.” He leaned forward slightly, narrowing his eyes at Wrath in mock scrutiny. “You don’t want anyone to know that, though, huh? It’d ruin the whole spooky, shadowy vibe.”

He extended a paw out.

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Wrath froze for a moment, his body tensing as if locked in deep contemplation. Was he truly Wrath? Or was he something else now—his boundless energy taking a new form, caught between the weight of his name and the pure, unrestrained instincts of a dog?

Whatever the answer, something in him suddenly snapped.

He crouched low, his tail flicking sharply behind him, ears flattening in what could only be described as irritation.

"I AM WRATH!!!!!!" his voice boomed into the void—yet, to Clover, it was nothing more than a single, forceful bark, deep and guttural, carrying the unmistakable weight of warning.

Mordecai’s head snapped toward them, his body moving before he could think. He was on his feet in an instant, his sharp voice cutting through the tension like a blade.

“Wrath.”

The command was firm, edged with something deeper, something final. Wrath froze mid-motion, his stance loosening but not completely relenting. There was still an unease in his posture, an irritation simmering beneath the surface.

Mordecai’s eyes flicked toward Clover, his muscles instinctively tensing, but he caught himself. He inhaled sharply, halting his breath for just a second before closing his eyes and forcing it out in a slow, measured exhale. When he spoke again, his voice was quieter, steadier—an attempt at an apology, even if it still carried the weight of restraint.

“I’m sorry,” he said, his tone firm but not unkind. “Our trip here has been long, and we’re both… tired.” A pause. “I think I need to walk some things off.”

Without another word, Mordecai turned, heading toward the gates, Wrath immediately falling into step beside him.

He didn’t know exactly where he was going. He only knew that, for some reason, irritation clawed at him, and even Wrath had shifted in a way that unsettled him.

He shook his head, trying to clear the thought as he took in his surroundings. The city pulsed with life, kin of all kinds moving through the patchwork streets, the Soulvows tending to their quiet duties.

Wrath padded ahead slightly, his eyes scanning the world around them, his ears flicking at every sound, every shift in the air.

 

[scantilycladsnail]

Clover stood frozen for a moment, his tail dropping slightly as the weight of Wrath’s bark and Mordecai’s sharp command hung in the air. His grin faltered, replaced by something more subdued—understanding, maybe even a hint of guilt. “...Right,” he muttered to himself, his ears twitching as he watched Mordecai and Wrath walk away. “That’s my cue to back off.”

“Alright, Clover, maybe save the jokes for later,” he said to himself under his breath.

---

Sky let out a soft whistle as he looked around the room. His feathers shimmered in the warm light from the glowing runes on the walls. The place felt cozy, but also a little weird. The heat reminded him of home, but the ash smell? Not so much. Still, it was better than freezing in some frosty corner of the city.

“Alright, alright, this’ll do, squawk!” he said, tossing his pack onto the floor near the hearth. “First rule of Redcrest life—set up the nest!”

He pulled a patterned cloth from his pack, the colors earthy and warm, just like the desert back home. With quick, precise movements, he spread it out on the floor near the corner. “Perfect. Lookin’ homey already, squawk!” He gave a satisfied nod and dug deeper into his pack, pulling out a small painted box. It had bright, geometric designs, and he placed it carefully next to the cloth. “A little Redcrest style for the vibe, squawk.”

Next, Sky reached for his Soulvow: a long wooden stick with a simple bronze bell hanging from the top. The bell jingled faintly as he held it up, inspecting it like it was a prized possession. “You’re comin’ with me, buddy,” he said, his voice soft but cheerful. He picked a spot close to the hearth and planted the stick firmly into the ground. The bell swayed gently, catching the glow of the runes on the walls. “Right where you belong, squawk! Now it’s official.”

“Hey, Baz!” Sky called out, hopping down from his perch. “You gettin’ all set up over there, squawk?” He walked over, his wings twitching behind him as he gestured toward Bazza’s space. “Bet this place feels like a furnace to you, huh?"

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

From the other side of the room, the steady whack of fists hitting a punching bag echoed, followed by short, sharp grunts. Bazza, the towering, muscle-bound kangarookin, was already working up a sweat, his rusty-red fur damp along his back from the intensity of his workout. His headband—his Soulvow, currently at rest—was tied firm around his forehead, keeping the sweat out of his eyes as he bounced lightly from foot to foot, shifting his weight like a seasoned fighter.

“Oh, ya bloody know it, mate!” he called back to Sky, his thick Aussie drawl carrying through the room. “Don’t take me long, eh?” His fists swung again, landing another solid hit.

BAM! The bag jolted backward.

“Oi, ya want one o’ these?!” WHACK! Another punch, this one sharper, controlled.

“Ohhh yeah, how ‘bout one o’ these?!” He let loose another strike, sending the bag swinging wildly.

He threw his arms up, bouncing in place, his tail thudding against the floor for balance. “Bush Brawler back at it again, ya dogs!” he hollered, throwing his arms out like he was basking in an imaginary crowd.

With one last bounce, he leaned back on his tail, wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his wrist before finally turning his attention to Sky. His energy still crackled, barely contained. “I tell ya what, I’m frothin’ to get out there already! Bet they’re all sittin’ ‘round, twiddlin’ their thumbs, pretendin’ they ain’t scannin’ the comp like a bunch o’ stiff-necked pigeons.”

His ears flicked as his eyes narrowed. “And you saw that bloody goat, yeah?” He jerked his chin toward the door. “What makes him so special, eh? Just ‘cause he’s got a skelly dog and a moody stare?”

Bazza flexed, his biceps bulging with barely contained pride. “Look at me! I’m Bazza! The Bush Brawler o’ Redcrest! The thunder from down under!” He cracked his knuckles together with a wide, toothy grin. “I’m the one they oughta be talkin’ about!”

 

[scantilycladsnail]

Red wasted no time claiming a central spot in the manor’s common area, his booming voice filling the space as he cheerfully greeted everyone he passed. Cyan, ever observant, settled near a window with a clear view of the streets, her sharp eyes quietly scanning their surroundings while occasionally nodding at Red’s chatter. Despite their differences in energy, the two seemed to strike an odd but functional balance—Red bringing the energy, Cyan keeping things grounded.

---

Riven’s clawed fingers tapped against the crystalline wall, his amber eyes narrowed as he stared at the icy ridge in the distance. The chill in the air bit at him, and his sharp gaze flicked back to Avarice, who was carefully arranging his belongings near the corner. The faint hum of the pavilion’s glowing walls only seemed to grate on Riven further.

“This place,” Riven hissed, his voice low but venomous. “It’s too quiet, too cold. We should’ve gone somewhere else.” He gestured sharply toward the crystalline archway. “Anywhere but this glowing frost box.”

Avarice didn’t look up, his movements slow and deliberate as he adjusted a small, carved figure on the ledge next to him. “You’re complaining already?” he said, his tone calm, almost detached. “I picked this place because it suits me. You don’t have to like it.”

Riven scoffed, his tail lashing behind him. “Suits you. Right. And what about me, huh? I’m not made for… this.” He waved a hand at the shimmering, refracted lights dancing across the walls. “I need something solid."

Avarice finally turned his sharp, icy gaze on Riven, his lips curling in a faint smirk. “Then adapt,” he said simply. “Or leave. You’re good at being on your own, aren’t you?”

Riven tensed, his claws digging into his palms, but he didn’t respond. Instead, he turned back toward the icy ridge, muttering under his breath.

---

Sky was watching Bazza with an amused tilt of his head. The kangarookin’s energy filled the lodge, as loud and unstoppable as the molten flow outside. Sky’s wings twitched as he let out a light laugh, “Classic Bazza, squawk!” he chirped, his tone warm and playful. “Workin’ the bag like it owes ya rent. Thunder from down under, huh? I’ll give ya that one. Squawk!”

“That goat, though? Mordecai, right? First year Ramurans. Gotta say, I’m curious. They’ve been quiet up till now, keepin’ to their own city.” He tapped his beak with a feathery finger, the jingling from his crest filling the pause. “But that soulvow? Wrath? Whoo, yeah, squawk! I wouldn’t mess with that thing.”

“Y’know,” he added, turning his head slightly, “I wonder if they’re into music. Think about it, squawk! Everyone’s got somethin’ they carry, yeah? Us Redcresters, we’ve got rhythm in our blood—beats, bells, the whole works.”

 

[ThieviusRaccoonus]

Bazza

Bazza swung another punch at the bag, then leaned back, rolling his shoulders loose. “Yeah, that’s weird, first-time Ramura goats. Wonder what made ‘em crawl outta their little zen garden,” he mused, his tone dripping with curiosity before he threw another sharp hit, his footwork bouncing in time with his energy.

“Ain’t know much ‘bout ‘em,” he admitted, delivering a quick one-two combo, his claws scraping lightly against the floor with each shift. “Heard they’re all spiritual an’ peace an’ whatever. Reckon they sit ‘round all day hummin’ to the wind or some shit.”

Bazza suddenly burst into wild laughter, nearly doubling over as he steadied himself on the bag. “Mate, if they’re all about peace, how the hell they gonna handle this comp? Bet they’re too scared to even throw a punch!” He snorted, shaking his head as he resumed bouncing from foot to foot, always moving, never still.

Then, with all the grace of a sledgehammer, he hopped over to Sky and whacked a heavy hand onto the bird’s back in a gesture of pure, jock-like camaraderie. “Hell yeah! That’s the spirit, mate! We’re gonna show ‘em how us Redcrest kin really do it—the right way!” He flexed, throwing his arms up in a proud display of muscle before slamming his fists together.

“Thunder from down under, baby! Let’s bloody go!”

---

Mordecai

Mordecai walked with Wrath through the city, his mind still tangled in the weight of everything that had happened so far. Suddenly, Wrath halted, ears pricking up as he sniffed the air. His skeletal eyes locked onto something unseen, and before Mordecai could react, the beast clamped his maw onto the sleeve of his robe and yanked him forward.

Mordecai nearly stumbled, his boots scuffing against the uneven ground as he hissed, “Wrath! Stop it! What are you doing?”

Wrath let out a sharp bark, his tail giving an eager wag as he tugged again. He was determined—whatever had caught his attention, he wanted Mordecai to follow.

Mordecai let out a long sigh, rubbing his temple before reluctantly giving in. “You’re hungry, aren’t you?” he muttered as Wrath dragged him toward the dining hall. “Did you not just destroy half the food in the waiting room earlier?”

Wrath barked again, completely unbothered by the accusation. His tail wagged harder, his excitement unwavering.

Mordecai rolled his eyes, exhaling through his nose as he stepped inside, resigning himself to whatever nonsense Wrath had gotten them into this time.

 

[scantilycladsnail]

At the Dining Hall
Gloam tore into a roasted leg of something unidentifiable, his jaw working overtime as he reached for a bowl of steaming soup. Plates and crumbs surrounded him like a battlefield, each conquered dish piled high and discarded in his relentless pursuit of more food.

Across the table, Zephyr rested his chin on one hand, watching the carnage with mild fascination. His Soulvow, a pair of avocado-cat creatures, sat on the table beside him, lazily licking their paws.

Gloam’s glowing eyes locked onto the avocado-cats, his chewing slowing for the first time. “What are those?”

Zephyr blinked, tilting his head. “These? They’re my Soulvow. Avacatos. Why?”

Gloam wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, his gaze narrowing. “They look… edible.”

Zephyr straightened, his tongue flicking out as he stared at Gloam in disbelief. “What?”

“I’m just saying,” Gloam said, leaning closer, his hand gesturing toward the cats, “they’ve got that ripe look. Perfectly soft."

The Avacatos bristled, their tails flicking sharply as one hissed and the other puffed up like an angry balloon.

---

The Crystalline Pavilion – Astra & Finn


Astra stood near one of the pavilion’s glowing walls, his sharp talons lightly brushing against the smooth crystal. The light fractured across his feathers, making the soft browns and whites shimmer like starlight. Finn sprawled on a cushion nearby, flipping a coin between his fingers, his usual skeptical smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“So, Ramura,” Finn started, his voice lazy, but his tone held an edge of curiosity. “First time in the Games, and they send in… a goat. With that weird shadow dog. Sounds like they’re really rolling out the heavy hitters.”

Astra turned his head slowly, his golden eyes narrowing just enough to let Finn know he wasn’t amused. “You’re missing the point, Finn,” he said, his voice calm and steady. “Ramura doesn’t move on whims. If they’ve sent players now, it means they believe these two will prove something.”

Finn tossed the coin into the air, catching it easily in his paw. “Yeah, sure. Or maybe they’re just tired of hiding. I mean, what’s their deal anyway? Sitting out all these years just to show up now with a goat who looks like he hasn’t eaten in days?”

Astra’s feathers ruffled slightly, though his expression didn’t falter. “There’s strength in restraint. And mystery has its own kind of power. Mordecai and Wrath… they’re not here to make friends. They’re here to survive. Don’t underestimate them.”

---

Karn stood near the hearth, her sharp talons gripping the edge of a stone table as she stared down at a map spread across its surface. It wasn’t a real map—just a makeshift sketch she’d scratched onto a piece of parchment with charcoal, marking out the key locations she’d observed so far: the coliseum, the residential buildings, and the other landmarks scattered across the city.

Her piercing eyes flicked over the crude lines, her beak clicking softly as she muttered under her breath. “Too much open ground near the pavilion. Good for visibility, bad for cover. If we’re forced to engage there for a game, we would need to push them into tighter spaces.”

She tapped the area she’d marked as the Ember Hearth Lodge with a claw, the glow of the runes on the walls casting faint shadows over her sketch. “This place is defensible—narrow entrances, plenty of heat to disorient anyone not used to it. But it’s a double-edged blade. We’ll have to control the flow of movement or risk getting boxed in.”