Fantasy As the World Burns

[November Witch]

Autumn Ichor

Status: Confused, concerned, determined, uninjured.

Autumn would blink in surprise and look at the other, caught off guard as the other simply dropped her name. One she had yet to utter since she had found herself here. This simply confirmed her suspicion about this creature. It had a wealth of knowledge. Whether it was mind reading, clairvoyant, or something else was unsure. But if this creature didn’t know what she was talking about and found her scent ‘strange,’ then something extraordinary happened to her to bring her here. Which was already obvious to Autumn.

Autumn didn’t agree with the creature, however. She didn’t think fighting was in the nature of her and fellow ‘short lived’ races. Autumn felt upwards of 90% of people didn’t want conflict or to fight. It was poor decision making and the lack of knowledge that led to situations that became violent. Maybe a misunderstanding or lack of communication. Fear, anger, and emotions running high. But no one ever wanted conflict.

Autumn took note of the other’s name, and anchored herself on the words of the other. The voice of the creature helped keep Autumn’s mind from wandering and falling into the flood of emotions now whirling through her mind. The name of the quadrupedal was odd to her, but then again she was somewhere completely unknown. Maybe that was a normal naming convention for this world? She listened as the creature went on to talk about a so-called “Great Life Spirit.” It sounded like that would provide her with answers. Autumn would have to look into that in the future when she had time.

If she had time… She still had a war going on around her. Autumn relaxed her fists, and took another deep breath. She would first have to not die in this battle. Then she could worry about other problems.

The creature called out to her, only then did she see a girl nearby, and the creature was already attempting to wake her. Autumn rushed over, her unstable emotions and stormy mind already calming. She had a task at hand, so everything else started to slow down and become calmer the longer she didn’t think about any of it. Autumn rushed over and fell to her knees. She reached out to touch the other’s neck and felt a pulse. Her chest rose and fell. She let out a sigh of relief and began to check the other for injuries.

“Hello? Miss? Can you hear me? Please answer me.”

She called softly to the other, raising her hand and taking it in hers. It didn’t feel very cold. She was likely still very alive.

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[jmann]

GAMMARIAH | Astellian Flank
Juju

Gammariah pulled his swords from the mage’s body and wiped the blood mud and rain from his brow with the back of his hand. He looked between the suffering unicorn and the weeping mage.
Gammariah crossed his swords, slick with crimson, in a cross pattern and holding the cross-section against the mages wrists. Mirroring his first message to the mage, he slashed the blades across each other and liberated the mage of her hands.

It was done. She wasn’t dead, but with her hands gone her spells would be muddled. There was one last thing before the elements could take her.

Gammariah felt the pain in his leg ease as the damage equalised through his body, everything ached but his leg felt slightly better.
Gammariah took another step to where the staff was and kicked it with his bad leg. It only went a few meters but it was enough to ensure she couldn’t get to it without crawling on bleeding nubs. Gammariah turned to the unicorn, the mage’s mighty steed bleeding silver. He emptied his Mark of Containment into his hand, conjuring the spear of ice back into his grip. Gammariah threw the spear right at the unicorn’s gut, hoping to avoid the magical barrier holding the wolf at bay.

 

[blankcanvas]

Lake​

Rena looked around her surrounding in absolute confusion. Just a minute ago, she was wading through some water, trying to find the exit, wasn't she? No, something about that sounded wrong, but for the life of her, she wasn't able to recall it. The more she attempted to grasp at the events that had just transpired, the harder it was for her to form a tangible memory. Still, she knew that something had to have happened, and she wasn't standing in the middle of nowhere with complete darkness being the only thing she was able to see.

The half-elf stretched out her arms and tried to flex her fingers, only to discover that she was missing most of her basic senses. She had no idea if she was even looking down at her body since she couldn't feel them move, and on top of that, perhaps it wasn't that she was stranded but rather she was now blind? There was nothing that was able to confirm this theory as sound wasn't penetrating her ears, and she certainly wasn't able to produce any from her mouth.

Maybe she was dead? But if she was, this was really strange since her mind seemed to still be conscious of this odd moment. However, this all came to a screeching halt as she suddenly felt the wind knocked out of her. It was strange phenomenon since she wasn't aware that she was even breathing in the first place. Before she could make sense of this, a single thought immediately intruded upon her.

Ouch

The world around her began to blur and swirl together, forming an amorphous mass that seemed to swallow her whole. As she tried to focus on her surroundings, a blank void flashed blinding white light at her, disorienting her even more. The cacophony of noise surrounding her grew louder and more chaotic, making it hard for her to think or move. She felt like she was being pulled into a whirlpool of chaos and confusion, unable to escape its grasp.

Rena's eyes slowly fluttered open as she groaned out something inaudible under her breath. The first thing she noticed upon regaining her sight was the starry night sky, which was immediately blocked by a strange paw. Blinking from the hit, she was about to say something when she felt it swipe at her a few more times. Using her left arm, the blue-haired female managed to raise her upper-body from the ground. She then squinted at the strange creature that had just been perched on top of her. Something in the back of her brain was informing her that she had some sort of familiarity with this beast, and yet, at the same time, she was unable to pinpoint it.

It did look cute though.

Rena was about to blurt it out when she noticed that something, or someone was holding her right hand. Looking down, her eyes then followed the other arm until they landed on the owner of the said body part. It was a red stranger. Tilting her head to the side, she bit her lower lip and examined this 'red' for a moment. Fluffy ears, long hair, and even fluffier tail. Letting out a small shrug, a yawn escaped her lips as she fell back down, except her head landed onto the other person's lap.

It was here that two wars were raging inside of Rena's mind. One was for her to stay here and take a nap, and the other urged her into satiating her curiosity. Without any sense of imprudence, the half-elf got back up, then reached out with her left hand and began rubbing the red stranger's ears.

"Fluffy...and red..." Rena said in a daze as she smiled before finally getting up on her feet. Taking a look around, she noted that there was nothing recognizable in the vicinity. The blue-haired female blinked a few times before asking, "Do you know where we are?"

November Witch Juju

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

The Astellian Flank
Juju​

For the first time, Doi's unwavering light shook. The enraged man's response was the total opposite of what made sense in her mind. What went wrong? How did he not understand? Surely peace and change was what they sought? Why else would He have sent her here? Why would He—?

Ah. A realization settled over Doi. The peace returned to her demeanor.

The spear soared past her. Aaron screamed in agony. The cage flickered, and the wolves piled around them with slobber-ridden maws. But Aaron muttered an incantation...

He did not send me here to bring peace to His name...

Static electricity arced between Aaron's fingers. It made his hair stand, and his eyes glow yellow. The cage dissipated. But Aaron was no longer on the ground.

He brought me here to rid this world of heretics.

Aaron channeled the energy into the floor, creating a carpet of electricity spiraling outward. He stomped, and lightning struck forth on all sides of the circle. Aaron grabbed the motionless Doi, putting her underneath him. He wasn't strong enough to carry her back, so he used the next best thing.

He uttered another incantation.

Lightning struck his back like a laser. Keeping Doi against him with a hug, he yelled as much as his throat could strain as the clothes and skin on his back away. The force of the continuous bolt pushed them past the wolves.

The lightning didn't last forever, but the momentum kept the two rolling. Eventually, crashing against a rock facing out of the ground, Aaron lost his energy and grip. Doi tumbled lightly, the mage having taken the brunt of all the damage.

Her white dress was soiled. The scent of burnt flesh and hair lingered. Splayed on the rock was her savior, Aaron Bennor. His breath was slow, and he looked up at her.

Doi knelt, taking his hand. "Thank you... so much."

Aaron barely mustered a smile. "Ma'am... the camp's on the other side... you need to get us home..."

Her face shifted again. A frown overtook her, and her hands clammed up. This was why He did not answer her prayer. He wanted her to understand His intent. And this is what He wants.

"Ma'am... what are you—?" Aaron's throat tightened as cold metal burned his neck. He shook, pleading at Doi with his eyes. He coughed, he choked. Blood dripped from Doi's dagger, slid into his throat.

Doi made a soothing shush noise, as a mother would to her baby. "Please understand... to let you suffer would have been the greater cruelty. I promise, you will be remembered." Aaron stopped shaking. His head tilted back. Doi closed his eyes. "Astell has a place for you. And your name will inspire thousands upon thousands..."

In the chaos of retreat, a marred woman of white marched in. She was stained with dirt and blood, and bore a great sadness in her eyes. She joined the troops converging in a portal spell, already weaving a story in her head: How Aaron Bennor selflessly saved her life. A human mage with a hair of crimson who single-handedly fought off swaths of wolves and warriors. How she watched him deflect the spear of a powerful being summoned from the cosmos...

 

[Solirus]

Rodal​

The officer appeared to be on her last legs, any strike now had to be decisive since the older lady and bull no longer appeared combat capable. The armored one still seemed capable but Rodal himself was getting winded, he was still wounded and wouldn't have access to blooming frenzy's regenerative capabilities for another 24 hours. Brimstone and Blizzard too were scarily close to running out and he withheld the storms inside the blades, in a team scenario they would certainly cause problems and force others to adjust to them. The only real option left for a decisive strike was Titan.

Rodal broke into a dash again, he could not allow the officer a window to strike the older lady and tossed Blizzard towards the officer similarly to how he'd tossed Brimstone before. Yet just as the blade reached the commander, whether blocked or dodged, Rodal would unsummon the twin blades, breaking apart and dissipating into fragments of light. When finally in range, Rodal crouched down streaming magic to his hands, the hilt materialized first, then the entire blade of Titan was forged from thin air. It was a behemoth of a weapon and Rodal swung with intent to cleave the officer in two.

Juju SirDerpingtonIV YsFanatic

 

[ThatWhichShouldBe]

Han Liuyang

He twists in the middle of the air, trying to spare himself the worst of the flames. Damn. They were more coordinated than they should be- He'd made a mistake. The once-God crashes upon an island in a heap, the smell of slightly cooked flesh wafting off him as he brings himself back up. Pain. He hadn't felt this bad in a long, long time. Now, where was he.... Ah. Yes. Right. The feeling of the wind on his back. The sound of a sword cutting through the air.

He's about to die.

How long has it been since he felt like this? Truly felt like he was fighting a battle he couldn't win? Even at his moment of death- He'd always had that last resort. The one he invoked, the one that he died for. When the last time he felt like he'd reached his limits?

Ha.

How could he have forgotten how fun it was?

The Knight's sword descends, and through the slit of his helm he sees the Sun King turn. Somehow, even beaten and bloody, charred and in surely horrific pain, that damn smile on the face of Han Liuyang has never seemed more triumphant. More fulfilled. And then, in the midst of his falling strike, the Knight halts. The Moonsilver Wraps are transmuted into a long pole with a spiked curve- a Man-Catcher, grabbing the Knight by the throat, just before his sword could land a finishing blow.

"I, the God of DAWN acknowledge you!"

The Knight's still moving- he feels himself swung, Han Liuyang pushing all of his strength into one more move. He swings, the pole flipping him over off the edge, even as it transmutes mid-movement into a long, winding chain that slithers to wrap about his neck. The former God braces himself, prepared to hold firm against the pull of gravity, setting his feet squarely as to maintain his footing with the sudden shift in weight. What his blade could not do, he had to hope the Knight's great weight, applied squarely to the Knight's neck vertebra, would.

He just had to hold on and not fall along with the Knight.

"YOU ARE A WARRIOR WORTH MY TIME!"

 

[Juju]

The Astellian troops have retreated, and far in the distance it appears they are disappearing through a large portal-like spell maintained by a large group of magi. So far most of the troops have vanished within, save for some stragglers in the back. It will not be long before they have completely disappeared from the battlefield.

• Lake
• Frontlines
• Flank

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  November Witch blankcanvas
  While Autumn took the girl’s hand and asked about her wellbeing, the masked spirit remained seated upon Rena’s chest and batted at her face like an annoying cat. As soon as Rena stirred, however, it scampered off to sit at a more reasonable distance from the girl.
  
  “Thou asks a most obvious question,” The little spirit said in a matter-of-fact tone, “Thou art in the Sea of Grass.”
  
  The creature motioned to the vast expanse of plains that rolled out across the distant horizon. It was dark and misty from the nightly rain, but for the most part it seemed to be open grassland as far as one could look. Which, to be fair, wasn't quite far. The only change in the grassy scenery was the lake they sat beside, a nearby [Temple] covered in moss and vines, and a [Ruin] of equal distress but situated much farther in the distance.
  
  Without prompt, the spirit continued its explanation, “You stand upon the holy grounds of Cloud-Home, dominion of wind and earth spirits. At least, primarily. As of late, the natural order of things has been stirred by the mortal war. An unsightly mess it is, just look at was it has done with the Sea.”
  
  Light Path looked once more between Autumn and Rena after having observed the ear-petting ceremony, “How peculiar. Doth thou know the other? Mayhaps born of the same plane of being?”
  
  The little spirit spoke to the both of them frankly, as if it had not just smited Rena merely minutes ago. It offered up no sort of apology, and since Rena refrained from bringing up the topic, the spirit made no effort to approach the topic.
  

  ---

  
  ThatWhichShouldBe
  The knight made an awful choking sound as his neck was grabbed mid-air by some strange weapon of Han’s making. Such force alone, aided by the weight of the knight, could have very well killed the man beneath the armor but by some stroke of luck or sheer tenacity he still clung to life, and with a vengeance.
  
  Even while grabbed, the knight attempted to slash at Han with his blade, all the while hacking and coughing. Han might even have smelled blood. Unfortunately, the blade hit only air as the knight was swung by Han over the edge only for the pole to become a chain. It wrapped around the knight’s neck, but was stopped by a quick desperate motion. The knight had brought his gauntlet up beside his head, tangling it with the chain.
  
  Metal screeched and bone snapped as the knight was jolted like a hangman. The man under the armor let out a cry of pain as he was held up by his arm, the joint surely dislocated by the weight. The knight's wrestle with the chains had knocked his helmet off of his head, revealing red cat-like eyes glaring up from a face of tanned, scarred skin. His expression was one of rage and fear.
  
  Somewhere beyond the floating stones, the blue wyvern roared.
  
  Intent on finishing the job despite everything, the knight’s sword was engulfed yet again in blue flame as he attempted to thrust it at Han one last time.
  
  That’s when something silvery blue breached from the lake in a flash of wet scales and fins. A large fish, similar to a koi in appearance, had leapt from the waters to smack itself against the blade. Fire fizzled and the blade was knocked out of the knight’s hands and sent free falling down to the lake below.
  
  At first glance the fish could have been mistaken for Shem, the cowardly spirit, save for a few glaring differences. Firstly, it was much smaller than Shem. Secondly, it was a brighter blue with markings of white. Most importantly, it held Toko’s precious orb in its mouth.
  
  After a brief moment, the fish fell squirming back into the lake along with the sword. Both landed into the dark waters below in a big splash.
  
  Disarmed and crippled, the knight could only attempt to reach up in an attempt to climb up the chain.
  
  “Damn you…” The knight choked out in sputters of blood, “Leyline must… stabilized…”
  
  The weight of the knight had almost sent Han flying over the edge, but his superior physique had given him just enough strength to hold his own. However, holding on to such a weight for a longer period would surely send him over. Of course, it would be quite easy to rid himself of the extra weight now. Just a little shift and the knight would be sent into a watery abyss. Or if Han preferred, he could always end things himself. Despite the knight's struggles, he was hanging on by a thread.
  
• 
  YsFanatic Solirus SirDerpingtonIV
  “Hmph. Such fragility. As is to be expected of mortal flesh.” the bull huffed as it watched its chosen champion crumple to the earth. Ironically, as it said these words one of its earthen horns fell apart, taking with it a portion of its head like a chip in old stone.
  
  Chunks of slate fell away from Sarah's blessed sword, until bit by bit the common blade, now horribly mangled, was all that was left of the weapon. In seeing this, the bull gave yet another snort of dismay, but no longer made any effort to get up.
  
  The vial glowed harshly within Sarah’s bag, as if it too were mocking the elderly woman’s fall. Thin tendrils of smoke rose from the spaces between the bag's seams, curling up towards Sarah’s body like hungry worms.
  
  “Let it never be known that I, Stalwart Bluff, left a debt unpaid.” the bull rumbled.
  
  No sooner had its words been spoken than its earthen form collapsed into lifeless rock, the glow that bound its form like lifeblood had been extinguished, save for the burning orange orb that inhabited its chest. This orb burst from its host and flew over to Sarah, its soft glow casting the malicious red tendrils to ash. In but an instant, cold stone the hue and sheen of agate crystalized upon the vial, sealing away whatever force had attempted to harm the unconscious veteran.
  
  With the tell-tale threat contained, the orb, more wispy now, shot off towards Rodal and the commander’s last dance. It collided with the edge of Titan just as it reached the apex of its swing, mere moments before the Cracked Blade shot over to intercept the blade. Much as it had done for Nat’s armor, the blade unleashed a blast of red energy, though both Rodal and TItan received hardly a scratch from it.
  
  As much as Leva would likely bemoan the fact, it would seem clear to both she and Rodal that the wispy force had provided some measure of protection from the blast, enough for Titan’s blade to ignore the blade's defensive technique. Titan freely crashed down upon the Cracked Sword and completely shattered both metal and the red vial within.
  
  Crimson splattered beneath Titan, only to shift mid-air and fly towards the Commander's Longsword, absorbed by the red gem. With the first sword broken beneath it, Titan continued its path to the commander. As quick as ever, she held up her longsword against the enormous blade, a harsh red glow emanating from her blade’s edge. Her teeth were grit in effort, her stance crumbling beneath the weight. Energy from the two swords hissed and flared outwards.
  
  Beneath it all was the ring of a little bell.
  
  A shout of pain, the snap of bone and the rush of blood. The commander was on the ground, her severed arm beside her. Beyond her reach, her blade was sunk halfway into the dirt, as if neatly placed into the ground like some earthen sheath.
  
  The commander’s eyes were wide, her face pale and crunched up in a look of agony. With her remaining arm she tried fruitlessly to stem the rush of blood cascading down her side. Her chest heaved, eyes glazed. Death loomed over her. With such a grievous wound, it would not be a long wait.
  
  Blood did not pool beneath her, but flowed in little rivulets towards the sword stuck in the dirt.
  
  “Cunning bastard…” the commander managed between clenched teeth.
  
  Her eyes flicked towards Rodal, somehow sharpened by the pain. She did not look afraid, in fact, it was immensely difficult to tell what sort of thoughts raced behind those dying eyes. Was that exhaustion, relief, anger, hope? It could have easily been all four or perhaps none.
  
  After the commander was struck down, the spiritual force applied to Titan faded away in little wisps of light, like the sparks struck in a blacksmith's forge. The little embers fell to the earth and dissolved therein.
  
• 
  jmann
  The mage exchanged a scream of anguish for the hands Gammariah took, her form crumbled over the mangled mess of her arms. By now her garb was more red than white, something that was only made more clear by the illumination given off by the runes across her flesh. Whatever magic was powering them was potent enough that the very flesh around them was burnt with the sigils.
  
  Tears fell from the mage's face, but when she looked up, only a bright white glow could be seen in her eye sockets.
  
  “I remember the Blue Star…” she said as Gammariah turned around, her words growing as fierce as the light on her face until they were spat like poison, “I remember you, and everyone you took…”
  
  Despite the woman’s words, Gamma would not recognize this mage or her unicorn being among the forces he faced. What he could recognize was the look on her face, the hatred in her voice. It was the sort of rage that fueled riots and rebellions, the grief that drove people to revenge. It was a sentiment he may be all to familiar with.
  
  “I’m not a powerless child anymore…I won’t let you take anyone else.” her words were fading, “Oh, goddess, forgive me.”
  
  Her final words were answered with a rush of light that threatened to knock Gammariah flat upon the ground. Wings of light unfurled in a blinding heap from above the body of the mage, each feather a ray of searing radiance. The thing crashed against Gammariah, slashing at his back (if he had not turned around at this point, otherwise it would be his face and chest) with several blades of.. something.
  
  The terrible light made it impossible to see anything other than the edges of wings, but it certainly felt like four sets of sharp talons, or perhaps nails, raking into his flesh. He would not bleed, for each wound was instantly cauterized by the harsh light. Gammariah could feel his markings strain under the sheer load of magic struck against him, and could feel it tearing at the flesh where the tattoos resided in, as if attempting to rip it out.
  
  This sensation did not last long, for the entity had soon flown over Gammariah, headed instead for the Wolf Matriarch and the wounded unicorn. The wolven lord howled in pain and leapt to the side, flank seared with raw gashes from the unseen weapons of the blinding entity. Several wolf spirits rushed to defend their leader, only to be evaporated upon coming into contact with the strange magic. Their leader backed away and the pack was quick to follow.
  
  Paying no mind to the wolves or their leader, the magic creation scooped up the unicorn in an embrace of wings, wind and light. Gamma’s spear fell from the unicorn, its wounds sealed and flesh made new. Like a mantle of fur, the mass of wings and light settled upon the unicorn’s haunches and bore it upwards and away.
  
  “Forbidden magic…” The wolf leader snarled, eyes following the prey it could no longer follow. “There are no depths to which these creatures will not stoop to..”
  
  The beast turned around and stalked towards Gammariah and what remained of the mage, pack trotting at her heels.
  
  After having cast the spell, the mage had grown deathly still, her body laid limp in the soil. Arcane sigils were scattered across her face and peeked out from under her sleeves, the glowing light they once burned with now nothing but burn marks. Quite vaguely they resembled the shape of eyes, much like the bark of an aspen tree. They stared unflinching, the mage’s own eyes shut tightly.
  
  If she had not already died of overuse of mana, she would surely die soon from blood loss. That, or blades and teeth. It seems that Matriarch Oshaka was eager to ensure the latter. If Gamma did not choose to inspect the white mage, the wolf seemed intent on ripping her apart alive or otherwise.
  
  In the aftermath of the spell, all seemed quiet and still. Far in the distance, the last of the Astellian troops were disappearing into some sort of magical gateway Gammariah had never seen before. The ground below them was scorched from magic and stained in blood, though there was a singular patch of grass and flowers near the mage's staff, now broken.
  

 

[November Witch]

Autumn Ichor

Status: Fearful, guilty, uninjured.

Autumn let out a sigh of relief as the other person seemed to stir, but was still a little alarmed as the other didn’t say anything. In fact, for a moment, it looked like she was going to try and sleep in the middle of this warzone. Her head laid on Autumn’s thighs and her eyes closed. Autumn had no idea how to go about, well, whatever this was. It was no place to be sleeping, however, it was better than being injured or trying to fight Autumn… So at least it wasn’t anything like that. She let go of the other’s hand, and was about to speak when, just as suddenly as she had laid down, she stood up.

Autumn was put into a daze of her own as the other reached out and felt her ears. It wasn’t the sensation that dazed her, but the actions of the other individual… Had she hit her head or something? While she certainly did enjoy the affection and feeling that came with her ears being touched, it wasn’t the time or place to be doing such things.

“Ah, n-no, I don’t.”

Autumn joined the girl, getting onto her feet, and the two stood side by side. But it seemed that the question was answered by Light Path. Her ears twitched, pointing towards the smaller creature as it spoke.

“I don’t think I know her, no.”

Autumn would answer the creature’s question. She looked towards the lake, seeing two figures fighting brutally, a dragon circling, and something in the water. Autumn walked over to the water’s edge, watching the scene unfold before her. She hated it, but she couldn’t tear her eyes away. Hopefully, however it unfolded, no one would die, and she could help treat the wounded. But this brought back memories from moments before, where she swore, she saw the mage perish.

Wanting to forget all these sights, she turned to Rena.

“I’m Autumn, and unfortunately, I have no idea where I am or what is happening. I have no allegiances with either side here, so know I don’t intend to make myself your enemy.”

Autumn assumed this girl was some sort of soldier or mage or something from one side or another. She didn’t want to be attacked or accused of anything, so she laid everything out before them in hopes this girl would leave her be.

Juju blankcanvas

 

[Solirus]

Rodal​

Rodal stood over fallen officer, a subtle feeling of relief washing over as he wasn't forced to activate Titan fully. It was unfortunate however that for such to be the case, the Stalwart Bluff had to sacrifice itself to a certain capacity, to what extent Rodal didn't know, he would have to ask another creature the meaning of 'foul-blooded'. The old lady was still down for the count and appeared to require medical treatment, Rodal focused on himself first however. Knowing the danger of the blades, he kicked the sword far away enough so it wouldn't absorb any more blood, he would still want to keep it, but now wasn't the time to test his luck. Then with Titan, he raised it and pointed the blade directly into the officers chest. He didn't need to utter a single word, the look in his eyes made it clear that if she tried anything he would end her.

Rodal was tempted to ask the officer where they were, for whom they fought, were they happy to have fought and died for kin and country? Those answers however didn't matter at this very moment, Rodal had been cursed by an unknown entity which resided in the blades and the officer seemed knowledgeable enough on his condition to offer him death.

"What curse did your blade afflict me with?" Rodal's question was direct without even a slightest bit of mockery or concern, contrary to his self-portrayal as a bastard.

Juju YsFanatic

 

[blankcanvas]

Rena​

Rena's lips parted, ready to respond, but her gaze was immediately drawn to the mythical creature standing before her. Its strange manner of speaking, with an almost regal tone and unusual speech pattern, stirred a sense of familiarity within her mind. A flicker of recognition sparked in her thoughts as she struggled to place where she had encountered something similar before.

"...wastes one's mercy"

The half-elf leaped back as the entirety of the past events suddenly came rushing into her mind. Without hesitation, she immediately placed herself between the fantastical creature and the one named Autumn. Extending her right arm out, she then replied in a somewhat shaky tone, "St-stand back! This fearsome foe is not something that you can easily defeat!" Drawing upon the false-willed courage of her theatrical background, she placed her other hand upon her chest as she continued, "However, fret not, for I, the hero of this tale, shall be the one who shall dispose of this!"

She quickly searched her sides only to find herself coming up empty.

Rena blinked a few times as she rubbed the back of her head and looked back at the red female. What was her name again? Well, it wasn't as though they were gonna be acquainted for much longer, and if anything, this one would probably be just a small footnote.

The girl closed her eyes and swore that she could hear her heart thumping loudly against her chest, almost as though it was trying to burst out from it. Taking a deep breath, she cautiously reached out to take fuzzy ear's hands in hers. Mustering all the courage that she could, she twirled around and locking eyes with the mysterious and magnificent beast once again. The creature's powerful presence filled her with both fear and wonder, but she stood her ground, determined to face it head on.

Well...

Rena turned around once again and sheepishly looked at the other girl before poking her on the forehead. She was about to reach out to touch the fluffy appendages when she spotted the temples.

"Oh! Let's go check it out! I bet there's someone there that can tell us what's going on." Without another moment to lose, she hurried grabbed Autumn's arm and began dragging her towards [Temple]

Juju November Witch

 

[jmann]

GAMMARIAH | Astellian Flank
Juju

Gammariah stood above the fading unicorn. The mage mentioned the Blue Star. She recognise him. He hadn't the faintest clue who she was, nor did he care to. She was done. He would be lying if he said the harm he had done hadn't bothered him, or that he never regretted one of his executions. Gammariah tuned the mage out. He wasn't going to do her the honour nor himself the disservice of remembering the mage's final words.

When the flash of light erupted he made to turn around but was too late. The being of light struck him from behind and through him from his feet. Wings ripped through his flesh like white hot knives. The vertical Mark down his spine sent shocks through his body akin to frozen fire or burning ice.
Gammariah screamed and dropped his swords. In a moment his voice was stolen as every muscle in his body contracted and released at once. The beast had left but the effect remained. He reached out, grabbing a fistful of earth and tried to pull his spasming body as if he could outcrawl his own synapses. Gammariah looked to the mage with fury and pain in his eyes. For the moment, the only goal in his mind was destroying that mage. If only the rest of his body reacted in kind. His other arm squeezed on chunks of mud-soaked clay as his legs flailed uselessly.

 

[Juju]

With a flare of arcane light, the portal used for the Astellian retreat vanishes along with the remainder of the troops. The howling of wolves fills the air, as if to mark the sound of the defending side's victory. Cheers momentarily block out the cries of the injured and dying. Rain continues to drizzle, the starry sky choked out by heavy clouds. The air is thick with the smell of mud, wet ash and blood.

• lake
• Frontlines
• Flank
• Astellian Camp
• ???

• 
  November Witch blankcanvas
  Light Path tilted their head, perplexed, “So thou art not acquainted. To think that it is possible thou originated from beyond the realm of death and life…”
  
  The little spirit watched the two introduce themselves, silently studying them with unseen eyes. Then Rena seemed to remember the previous events and sprung into action. Despite her fearful reaction, the little spirit’s tail wiggled excitedly.
  
  With fur fluffed out like an angry cat, Light Path retorted back after Rena’s pseudo challenge, “Hah! Perhaps thou hast forgotten how to treat an honourable spirit with respect! One thinks that thou have not learned thy lesson. Fallen star, or not!”
  
  The air crackled with energy around the little creature, whose fur had flared up with a soft golden glow from deep within its fur. Light Path seemed ready to dish out yet another smite, only to stop when Rena turned their back to them and instead spoke about visiting the nearby temple.
  
  Light Path went still, their head tilted to the side in awkward disbelief. Had the woman forgotten her initial challenge? The spirit loosened their stance and watched in confusion as Rena ran off towards the temple.
  
  “Most odd…” Light Path spoke, “Is this perhaps common where thou originates from, Autumn?”
  
  Despite watching Rena depart, the spirit made no effort to follow after her.
  
• 
  Solirus
  Despite the apparent sentience of the longsword, it did little to resist Rodal’s kick. Lifelessly, the sword scattered across the ground. Even so, it continued to drink in the blood, the streams of it swapping directions to adjust for its rude change of location. The gem seemed to pulse with life as the commander’s faded.
  
  Rodal stared down the dying commander and demanded answers. She regarded him coldly, her grey eyes ever sharp. Yet before the commander could utter a word, the longsword sprung to life.
  
  A single clean cut was all it took to separate head from body. There wasn’t even a single drop of blood. All of it had seemed to be absorbed into the very sword that had beheaded its previous handler. The rate at which it consumed the blood was quicker than ever, leaving an impossibly clean kill.
  
  A thin, wispy voice floated in the air. “My apologies for the interruption, but you have no idea how long I have waited for that. It felt like the old hag would never croak. You would think a human would give up when their body starts to fail and slow, not go to war. Talk about stubbornness. Then again, it worked out well in the end.”
  
  Seeing as nobody was around but the unconscious Sarah, Natalie in her mech and the dead commander, it was safe to say the voice could only be coming from the sword. Each word was reflected by a flicker from the sword’s red gem, further hinting to its point of origin.
  
  The longsword hovered slightly above the mud, just a little bit away from the commander’s corpse. Aware of its previous actions, and perhaps a little too aware of the competence of its opponents, the sword continued. Its voice was a much more clear now, smooth and rich like a fine wine.
  
  “Now now, darling, I know we got off on the wrong side of impressions but let us not be too hasty shall we? After all, I am the only one in this entire side of the world who knows anything about that tricky curse of yours. Even those flea-ridden, talking animals. Lucky for you, I even know how to get rid of it before you rot from the inside out and become a slave to it. A horrible way to go, if I do say so. ”
  
  There was almost a smile in the disembodied voice, a smugness in knowing something that another did not. They seemed to take a small joy in holding it above Rodal’s head, and savored the moment for a little before continuing, “Of course, before I graciously grant you my wisdom we will need to come to an agreement first. Namely, your brutish tendencies. Now, I mean no insult to your honour, but I am not quite convinced that after I provide my assistance you would not simply brandish that pretty sword of yours and try to shatter me like my less fortunate compatriots. Let us make a deal shall we? I will assist you in removing your curse, and you will not allow any harm to come to me until after we have gone our separate ways.”
  
• 
  jmann
  With a quick movement, the wolf matriarch was upon the fallen mage. She lifted up the elf in her fearsome maw and shook her violently from side to side, snuffing out what little life might have remained in the woman. The wolf then tossed the corpse to the ground and lifted her head in a long, haunting howl that carried across the battlefield. One by one her spectral pack joined in, until it was a chilling chorus of victory.
  
  The matriarch then set her sights upon Gammariah, who was locked in agony from the mage’s final attack. Large paws padded upon the torn ground, leaving behind a trail of frost with every step.
  
  She loomed over Gammariah, glowing eyes cast upon him with the same look of concern a shepherd might have when considering killing a sickly sheep. White frost bloomed across the ground beneath the wolf, covering the soil in a thin layer of white. The cool vapour of frozen air pressed against Gammariah’s hair and exposed skin.
  
  “Are you well, manchild?” the wolf spirit asked, her white maw still streaked with fresh crimson.
  
  Other ghostly wolves had gathered around Gammariah, regarding him curiously. Some got too close, sniffing at his marks and seared flesh, only for the matriarch to snap her teeth at them. The simple gesture was enough to send the closest ones skittering back, tail tucked between their legs.
  
  The large wolf lowered their head and sniffed Gammariah’s mangled back. Her breath was like a winter gale, stripping the heat from Gammariah’s skin the moment it brushed across it. While not a blessing of healing by any means, the chill might temporarily soothe the agony.
  
  “Can you walk, or must I drag you like a pup yet again?” the matriarch barked, her voice cold and yet laced with a hint of amusement.
  
• 
  AriAriAbabwa
  As soon as Doi stepped upon the threshold of the camp, she could see a web of arcane energy flare up in front of her like a glowing spiderweb. Sparkles of blue energy clung around her form, drawing the attention of a nearby guard stationed at the edge of the camp.
  
  He was an elvish man, face partially obscured in an ornate helm of silvery alloy. With a spear in hand, the man was swift to approach and shouted, “Halt!”
  
  While many humans were employed in the service of the Astellian Empire’s war efforts, there were not many who garbed themselves in a white dress stained in blood. It made for quite the unusual sight, one that garnered attention from some of the troops still filing in.
  
  Another guard, this time dressed in the tunic of a mage, came to assist the spearman. Arcane sigils sprung to life beneath Doi, encasing her in a prison of light and arcane energy.
  
  "You are not marked with an arcane rune signifying your division…" They looked a little confused as they said this, yet still they held an air of authority in their voice, "Identify yourself at once!”
  
• 
  YsFanatic
  In the depth of her unconsciousness, Sarah slowly became aware of herself again... and the new surroundings she soon found herself in. Like gently waking from a dream, or the precious moments before sleep, she realized that she was no longer on the battlefield.
  
  Instead she was laid in a shallow pool of water, the surface of which was broken by a patch of aquatic vegetation that swayed to and fro like underwater grass. She could see trees above her, stretching up so high that she couldn't see their canopy where it faded into the forest mist.
  
  The water stretched on through the forest, as if it had been flooded. Little fish swam around her in schools, curious of the thing that sat in the midst of their shallows. Somewhere, a bird made a trilling call.
  
  The forest of tall trees stretched on in every direction except directly ahead of Sarah, where she spotted a large clearing in the waterlogged forest. Perhaps a lake or pond was a better term than clearing, for she could see a mass of lily pads in a patch of dark, still water.
  
  Rising from the centre of the lake was the remains of an enormous statue. It was covered in all sorts of vines and moss and was horribly worn from time and neglect, making the original details of the sculpture hard to discern. Even so, from the overgrown outline, Sarah would be able to see that the statue appeared to be the shoulders and head of a woman. At one point she would have been holding up an arm, but that had long broken and must have sunken to the bottom of the water. Behind her jutted out a strangely shaped rock, almost like a wing.
  

 

[YsFanatic]

As 'conscious' thought returned to Sarah, she quietly listened and felt what was going on for a moment. Just the change in sounds and the feeling of laying in water instead of mud was enough to tell her that she was no longer in the battlefield before she had even opened her eyes. What the elder swordswoman saw only confirmed those observations. But more than that, the twilight sky, heavy mist, and tinges of blue in some of the thicker parts of the foliage reminded her of something, of a dream world a friend of hers has. However, Sarah knew this was not the same as she didn't have the kinds of powers Tristessa and some others had that gave rise to her dream world, and in addition that particular kind of dream world only manifested in the form of creations made by human civilization. Tristessa's for example was that of a New Jersey diner. Frowning as she sat up, the swordswoman tried to recall what the dream world was called, it had a special name that applied to its various manifestations, but it had been so long since they had talked about it that she could no longer recall it.

Ultimately the name didn't matter, so she abandoned that train of thought as she slowly stood up, scanning the area for any signs of danger. Instead, what Sarah saw off in the distance caused her to blink in surprise. Walking forward to get closer to the ruined statue, at least until it started to get deeper, she examined it as best as she was able. It reminded her of the twin Goddesses... Only they were dead, having sacrificed themselves to give what little power they had left to Sarah. Power she had then gifted to her daughter over twenty years ago. A frown crept onto her face as she wondered if the resemblance was intentional, or just a coincidence. Either way, the swordswoman wondered what was the point of being here, and the lack of any kind of 'greeting' so far left her feeling a bit impatient. Unless this was some weird quirk of this world, it stood to reason that something had brought her here for some kind of purpose.

The woman crossed her arms before speaking. "Alright, I'm guessing there is a reason for me to be here. I'd would prefer if we could get things moving, and don't pull any 'you are dying' type deal. That's a trope that I don't particularly care to deal with."

If she was wrong and this was instead some kind of manifestation brought about by her changed abilities, well, she had done stupider things than talking out loud to herself before.

Juju

 

[ThatWhichShouldBe]

Han Liuyang

The King of the Rising Sun wills the other end of the chain to form into the end of a Kusari-gama, a wicked silver sickle forming in his hand. With a flick of his wrist, it swings out to slit the Knight's throat, before Han maneuvers the chain to allow the Knight's body to fall into the waters below. He'd collapse after that, laughing softly as the pain of his wounds and the fatigue sets in, resting with his back upon the rock. Toko had... turned into a fish? Or sent a fish to help him? Either one was a good enough sign that she could get away safely, in the lake.

He hoped that Wyvern didn't swing back for revenge now. It'd be a shame if Toko had to see him get roasted for his troubles.

 

[Solirus]

Rodal's eyes were painted clearly with annoyance, before him now floated another of the officer's blades. He could destroy the blade now, it couldn't predict Titan's capabilities and he could strike it by surprise, even should he miss he could chase the blade down, it had nowhere to go. These thoughts ran pointless through his head and were soon interrupted by Leva's voice.

That Second-grade, half-crafted, pile of scrap shit BITCH. She ruined the ending! Leva exploded in pure anger, The unwanted assistance was unneeded but tolerable, but this just ruins it all. You were about to get a response from the enemy and then you would've dramatically ended her life in the midst of a war torn land. RUINED RUINED RUINED That devil half-rotten scum fuck should just throw itself into a pile of molten lava.

...what do you think of this agreement they offer?

What do I think? I think this thing should just be buried under the ocean floor to suffer!

Their assistance might prove exceptionally useful

RODAL! You can't possibly trust this piece of Junk Backstabbing SCENE RUINING thing!

I don't entirely trust it, but I don't know what afflicted me, but it might be concerning enough to warrant some... trust.

You know what? Fine whatever, you don't care about me enough anyways, have it your way.

You know that isn't true...

...

Look we'll get revenge on it after it helps us ok?

...ok

Rodal embedded Titan to the ground and crossed his arms showing no signs of hostility, "Your wisdom and direct assistance would certainly be appreciated. However if a deal is what you offer, I will accept it under the following additional conditions, you, the blade, will be sealed within a sheathe until I am cured, and after I am cured, I will not be allowed to damage you for 24 hours." Rodal moved his hand to grab Titan, yanking it from the ground, "Refuse these terms and I will destroy you now, do not test me, you have no idea what I am capable of." Rodal swung Titan upwards letting it land and rest on his shoulder. "The deal will take effect when I find a sheathe for you."

Kneeling down he considered picking up the head of the officer, but perhaps that would be too extreme for the people of this land or disrespectful, enough people already witnessed his actions today and his attire stood out enough that he would be noticed alongside the older lady and the armored one. Maintaining his attention on the blade, he began searching the area for a sheathe fitting the blade, instead however he found the same mount he rode into battle with. Rodal produced a loud whistle for the mount to approach, his free hand extending some left over carrots from his bag hoping it would recognize them and him.

Juju YsFanatic SirDerpingtonIV

 

[November Witch]

Autumn Ichor

Status: Worried, guilty, uninjured.

Autumn was frightened at the sudden outburst of the other, assuming she was the one being talked about for a split moment. And after she had just tried to clear the air and say she wasn’t a threat! However, this was only a brief thought in her head. It took not even half a second to comprehend what this girl was really talking about. The small creature, Light Path. With the amount of knowledge the little thing seemed to possess, Autumn had already figured it was something to not trifle with. But if this girl was right, Autumn’s own assumption would also prove to be correct.

However, this girl was acting quite strangely too. It was possible she had hit her head. Autumn figured that was at least the cause for her being unconscious in the first place, or perhaps drowning and washing ashore only for luck to be on her side. She seemed to be quite sporadic, or forgetful. Autumn would assume it was because of some sort of head trauma or perhaps the mind of the other. A way to cope with the immense stress and trauma that came with being in an active battle and seeing the horrors of war.

“Hold on, there’s no need to fight. Please, remain civil.”

She placed a hand on Rena’s left shoulder, and pulled just slightly. No more violence was needed. Autumn didn’t know if she could handle seeing more. This social interaction giving her mind something to focus on was the only thing keeping her from a breakdown. She sighed in relief as the other turned to face her, seemingly giving into Autumn’s wishes. She set her other hand on the blue haired girl’s unoccupied shoulder.

“Good, just remain calm. You’re safe at the moment.”

Autumn then tensed slightly when the other reached for her ears again. Something only a child would do back in her homeland. Not only was it rude, and invading someone’s personal space, but it was something Autumn only let trusted individuals do. However, now wasn’t the time or place. If it helped calm the other down, or keep them content, she was willing to put up with it. Besides, it was something that did feel nice.

However, she felt a pang in her mind. Another crack in the damn holding back her emotions.

I wish I had someone to do this for me.

But just as soon as that selfish thought appeared, it was pushed aside. Autumn couldn’t afford to think such things now. Besides, she was an adult. She should be expected to take care of herself.

She let go of the other’s shoulders as she turned to face the creature again, only to turn back to Autumn. She spoke up about the temples, and attempted to pull her in the direction of them, but Autumn pulled against the other.

“No, I think I saw someone in the water! I’m not leaving right now.”

She told the other, looking back out towards the water, where she had been looking before the other girl tried to pick a fight with Light Path. Granted, she wasn’t exactly sure if it was a person, or even an alive person. She just mainly wanted to make up for leaving the mage earlier, but Autumn would never admit that. She felt like she was obliged to do everything she could for everyone she came across now.

Autumn’s eyes glanced at Light Path, and she was glad he also seemed to be calming down. Well, according to the tilt of its head, maybe more confused than anything. But she was glad no violence was starting between anyone.

“N-No. In fact, this behavior is typical of a child or someone immature.”

Autumn slipped her hand out of the other girl’s grasp, and looked out to the lake once more, only to see a figure plummet into it. It seemed to have armor on and was falling lifelessly. She closed her eyes and looked away. It wasn’t what she had seen earlier, but it was still something that hurt to see. After a moment, her eyes wandered up to the floating isles the figure had fallen from. But being far above the ground, she couldn’t glimpse anything. So, they returned to the water, hoping to see any sign of the movement she’d seen earlier or the figure that had just caused small waves to ripple her way.

blankcanvas

 

[jmann]

GAMMARIAH | Astellian Flank
Juju

Gammariah clutched at the mud, control finally returning to their limbs. It took them a minute, but slowly they put one knee under their body. Then the other, and straining against their spasming muscles, stood. Gammariah took a hesitant step forward and another leg spasm sent them back into the mud and muck. Gammariah let out a tell of frustration and pain. That two-bit mage would not take away his second chance. He'd burn them all in time.

Gammariah knelt again. Then breathed. He got to his feet and used an Astellian spear to balance as he made the tentative few steps over to the mage before his legs were able to hold their own weight. The Astellians fled through portals. A smarter scholar could work out where those went. But Gammariah would have to leave that to the others. He presumed the remaining people were rebels, smaller in number and some of whom who looked even more bizarre than Gammariah.

Gammariah sunk to his knees again and started turning through the pockets of the mage's mangled corpse. He pushed aside a lump of flesh he imagined was what remained of her arm. In a pocket on her side, Gammariah found a small blood-drenched bag full of seeds. What use was seed to a battle-ready mage? If they were sentimental he could toss them, but if they had a purpose he couldn't risk it falling into the hands of scavengers or spies. Gammariah would hold onto them until a gardener could take a look at them.

Gammariah turned to the wolf that still loomed over him.
"I can walk, but thank you, Matriarch," Gammariah stood again, pain still present but diminishing steadily.
"What is next? Is there still a strong resistance against the Dynasty's reign? I hate to be of further but I have no knowledge of this region."

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

The Astellian Camp
Juju​

Upon finding herself imprisoned, Doi showed no reaction. These were His acolytes, and so she had no reason to fear. She met the guards with her beaming eyes. She bowed gently. "I am Murakami Doi. Although I did not arrive with your divisions, please do not be alarmed, for Astell has willed me to help."

Doi unfurled her hand, revealing a miraculously unsoiled flower to the onlookers. It belonged to the unicorn from his protection spell, but in her eyes was a sign of Astell's blessing. "I was rescued by a mage of yours named Aaron Bennor. He deflected the blade-wielding mage at the flank and repelled a swarm of spirit wolves with great lightning." Doi pressed her hands against her chest fondly. "He sacrificed himself for me. He helped me realize my purpose for being here."

She spread her arms out. "She sent me a message. Demonstrated the fate that the heretical have chosen. And clearly, you all picked up on the same objective. Now it is my turn to contribute, for She bestowed upon me a gift." Doi stepped as close as she could to the bars of light. Peering straight past them, she said, "Grant me any one of your fallen. With Her gift, I shall grant them a second life."

 

[blankcanvas]

Rena​

"Wha- Bu- You can't just..."

Rena's hand jutted out, fingers splayed wide as she desperately reached for the other girl. But her grasp met only with a cold, empty void, sending shivers down her spine. The air felt thick and heavy, as if it were resisting her touch. She strained her muscles, pushing against an invisible barrier that seemed to mock her efforts, and in the end all she could hold onto was the bitter disappointment of failure.

"It's much safer this way!" the half-elf shouted, "You'll end up regretting it!" She paused and then added, "...I mean it."

The blue-haired female patiently to see if there would be a response from the other end. After a few moments of silence, she knew that she would be alone once again. Rena's cerulean eyes searched around for any sign of life. As she scanned the surrounding area, her gaze landed on the gloomy grey sky above. The world seemed to be engulfed in a dull, ashen filter, with a constant static buzzing in her ears. She let out a heavy sigh, feeling a sense of despondency wash over her once again.

'Alone again huh...Just like all the others...'

Rena held her head as a sudden sharp pain jolted through her mind. It was but a brief moment, however, she was able to get a glimpse of the shattered, fragmented memories that had bubbled up to the surface. She was utterly confused by what she had witnessed and decided to dwell on it another time.

The half-elf blinked a few times as she rubbed the back of her head. What was she doing again, and who was she talking to? The concept of time seemed to blur and merge as everything around them became indistinguishable. It was a disorienting feeling, like being caught in a never-ending loop where the present was constantly slipping away. The surroundings melded together, creating a monotonous landscape that made it difficult to maintain a sense of reality. It was as if they were stuck in a perpetual state of sameness, with no escape or sense of progression. Time melted away into an endless abyss, leaving them lost and unsure of what was past, present, or future.

Finally having stumbled upon the grounds of the [temple], Rena quickly took stock of the situation. The imposing temple gates were locked shut, their sturdy iron bars a clear message of protection and defiance. The walls surrounding the structure stood tall and silent, seemingly abandoned after the dragon's vicious attack had taken the lives of any archers who once guarded them. The air was heavy with an eerie stillness, broken only by the distant sound of roaring flames from the dragon's breath. A sense of dread hung in the air, as if even the elements themselves feared to approach the desecrated temple.

Well...at least she wasn't wrong?

Let out a small sigh of relief, Rena slumped against the temple gates and closed her eyes.

 

[Juju]

• Lake
• Frontlines
• Flanks
• Temple Gates
• Astellian Camp
• ???

• 
  ThatWhichShouldBe November Witch
  Without much effort, Han let the knight fall into the depths below. The armored knight crashed against the black water with a great splash, and then stillness. All that was left was a stream of bubbles, indicating the final moments of the drowning warrior.
  
  Drawn to the struggle of its master, the wyvern tried to land upon the low-hanging islands, only for the stones to fall under its weight and forced it to take wing again. The great beast shrieked and dove at the water like a fishing bird, but to no avail. Try as it might, the sinking knight was well beyond its reach. In its desperation to save its companion, the wyvern ignored the injured Han.
  
  The distraction was enough for the mysterious fish to launch yet again from the waters. It soared upwards, wriggling to and fro as it was suspended in the air above Han. It then flopped down onto the floating isle with a wet thwack, wriggling beside Han.
  
  Laid on its side, the fish then began to twitch and… unfold? Its movements defied reason. The scales shifted away, the glistening eyes parting with tendrils of thin mist. What was once a living fish, now looked to be nothing more than a dead pelt. From within it emerged Toko, who adjusted the strange garb up over her head just as she always had. It seemed she had managed to find her headdress.
  
  After emerging from her fantastical transformation, Toko's face was pale and laced with worry. She quickly knelt at Han’s side and stammered, “By the spirits! Y-you—Oh, please forgive me. A healer, yes we need to get you to a healer. Haavi and the others can help!”
  
  Mere moments after Toko said these words, her voice was drowned out by a deafening screech from the blue wyvern. Its wings tilted dramatically as it shook its head, as if struck by a heavy blow. Hisses of pain erupted from it as it turned away from the floating pillar of islands and soared off into the night. Slowly, it disappeared into the distance, obscured by darkness and cloud.
  
  Toko stood up to watch the scene unfold, her eyes a mix of curiosity and satisfaction. Beneath her breath she uttered some words, holding the orb close to her chest in prayer. Much to her surprise the orb responded with a flash of light.
  
  “H-hey!” she sputtered as the orb wrenched itself from her grasp and flew up into the air. As if plucked by an invisible string, the orb launched into the sky, floating up like a luminous bubble until it faded into the swirling clouds above.
  
  “No, no, no! Oh spirits do not leave!” Toko pulled at the edges of her headdress as she could only watch with horrified eyes as her precious orb flew out of sight. After a moment of shock, she looked between the night sky and Han.
  
  “No, there’s no time. We need to get you back to the temple.” she said, her voice quivering a bit. She placed her hands under Han’s arms and tugged him with all her might. There was a significant size and weight difference between the two, but Toko was determined. Slowly and with great effort, she dragged Han to the edge of the floating island.
  
  “This… might hurt… just hold… on. Hold... your breath!” Toko grunted out between heavy breaths, her arms shivering from exertion. With one last tug she pulled Han over the side of the island, and they both fell into the water below.
  
  Surprisingly, the impact was not as harsh as one might expect, softened miraculously by a scattering of bubbles and the folds of Toko’s flowing headdress. She swam with Han cradled in her arms, his head above the water so that he could breathe while he floated on his back. As if possessed with life, the fins of her headdress moved with Toko as she swam, propelling her at a steady pace through the water. Unlike her efforts above land, it seemed she had little issue dragging Han across the lake.
  
  As they drew close to shore Toko noticed the beastfolk woman standing at the lakeside and called out to Autumn, “Hello! My friend is injured and in need of a healer! Please help me bring him to the temple!”
  
  Toko finally reached the shallows and stood, hauling Han through the knee-deep water. She was drenched and exhausted, her headdress hanging limply around her like an old cloak. Despite her haggard appearance, she looked determined to see her mission to its end. Even so, her shaking might lead one to be doubtful of her success. She looked ready to feint at any given moment.
  
• 
  Solirus
  The red gem on the sword’s hilt flickered with each word that spawned from it.
  
  “My my, how quickly bargaining turns to blackmail. Why, it's just like home!” The sword mused in its silken voice, “As tempting as your offer of imprisonment via leather is, I’m afraid I cannot help you as promised if I am bound to a sheath for the duration of our contract!”
  
  The sword floated a little closer to Rodal, ensuring it kept the same distance from him as Rodal moved around to attend to his other matters.
  
  “Sadly, I cannot accept your current terms in good conscience. I’ll need to move from a sheath if I am to work on your cure. Might I suggest a small adjustment? I will agree to take home in a sheath, though with your permission I might leave it on occasion to assist with your treatment. And yes, I will promise to behave myself and cause no harm you or any allies you might have. After all, I wager you hardly need my protection with that fine blade of yours. I must say, in all the long years no weapon has worked such devastation upon my less fortunate comrades. It was simply delicious! I doubt I will need to make a single slice of my own. Alas, I’m afraid my own talents pale in comparison.”
  
  The blade floated a little more closely towards Rodal, causing his steed to become visibly uneasy at its presence. Noticing this as well, the blade backed off again, hovering just a little beyond reach of either party.
  
  “How does that sound? Quite reasonable, I hope? I cure you of your affliction, with all the freedom I need to do so, and in return I am allowed to leave unscathed for a singular day. No harm will become of me from yourself, your allies, and that pretty blade of yours. For our shared interests, throughout the duration of our contract I will not harm you and in turn you will not harm me and will ensure I am kept safe. From allies or otherwise. I would assume your instinct of self preservation would cover this last one, but humans do so often surprise me.”
  
  A disembodied chuckle rose from the blade. It then waited for Rodal's response, hovering close to him should he move away yet again.
  
• 
  jmann
  The matriarch watched Gammariah with cool, golden eyes as he recovered and sifted through the belongings of the dead mage. She had seen humans loot bodies before, even though she was impartial to the deed. Beside her, the pack sniffed about the battle field in search of survivors to finish off.
  
  “Good,” she huffed at Gammariah’s confirmation of his improving health, her tone snippy yet a little amused, “I would hate to drag two wounded pups back to the den.”
  
  Oshaka snorted in disgust at Gammariah’s question, a growl pressed between her bared fangs. She barked, like a short and bitter laugh, “Strong resistance? You will find nothing but cornered prey-things cowering in their dens and hoping the wolf leaves its hunt. My kin are cowards, clinging to traditions as if it will shield them from what is to come. The elf-kin will not stop until our shrines are broken and the children dead, yet my kin believe peace and inaction to be the answer.”
  
  The matriarch’s growls were enough to send several of her pack scurrying away in fear of another snap of her fangs. Her white fur bristled, but her frost-cloaked fangs remained free of blood for the time being.
  
  “Those who still have fangs are nestled within Cloud-Home, the present target of the elf-kin,” She motioned with her muzzle towards the [Temple] in the distance then continued. “The few tribes of Children who chose to fight have made a pack under the leadership of Elder Haavi. When you are finished here, you would do well to speak with her.”
  
  While Gammariah and the wolf-mother spoke, a ragged figure limped up to them from the blood-soaked battleground. It was none-other than the companion of the Matriarch, who had rode into battle on her back.
  
  He leaned heavily on his staff, one arm cradling the bloody mess of a stab wound in his side. It seemed he had used ice to seal up the wound, though it had bled significantly enough to stain the fur of his armour.
  
  “I don’t know what tribe you hail from, but any enemy of the Astellians is a friend to us.” He said gruffly with a subtle nod of recognition, “I am Rokii Winterstep. Well met, friend.”
  
  His bloodshot eyes lingered on the dead magi for a moment, the threat of a smile on his face.
  
  “You cut her down I see? Good.” he spat on the soil then turned to give Gammariah a nod of approval, “Her blood has repaid many debts. You have our thanks. Haavi will be relieved to hear of your victory.”
  
  “Indeed. It is time we return to the den.” The Matriarch padded over to the wounded man. She sniffed at his wound then licked it gently. Other spectral wolves crowded around Rokii, sniffing at his wounds and whining or panting.
  
  Rokii hissed in pain as frost coated his wound and armour, but he only gave an annoyed grunt, “Mother, please. I’ll be fine.”
  
  The enormous wolf withdrew with a huff, “Then I will hear no whines from you. We return to Cloud-Home with our new friend.”
  
  She leaned down her head and lowered her shoulder so that Rokii could climb upon her back. After he was settled, she remained in her crouch and looked at Gammariah expectantly. It seemed that unlike last time, she would allow him to sit on her back without chomping off his arm.
  
• 
  blankcanvas
  
  
  Not long after Rena had collapsed against the gate and shut her eyes, a voice spoke up.
  
  "Hey, are you alright?" he said, the sound of footsteps drawing closer to the near-unconscious Rena. "Easy, one at a time. Don't smother her."
  
  If Rena opened her eyes she would see a group of warriors, mostly archers, crowded around her. Almost all of them were wounded, some more than others, with only a few leaning on their companions. The man who had spoken appeared to be their leader. He himself was nursing a large gash on his arm and several other bloody spots, though if it bothered him he didn't show it. A large bow crafted from some sort of animal horn was slung across his shoulders, and a curved sword hung in a hide sheath from his hip.
  
  "Are you injured?" he asked, kneeling down in front of Rena and looking her over for wounds. Finding none, he continued in a more concerned tone, "What are you doing outside of the shrine? All civilians were to stay inside the temple with Elder Haavi."
  
  He grabbed a hold of Rena's hand and helped her up onto her feet, "Well, I guess it doesn't matter now. Up you go."
  
• 
  AriAriAbabwa
  The two guards exchanged a glance before the mage reached out to take the flower from Doi’s hand. He turned the flower over in his hand, his brow furrowed as he listened to Doi’s fervent account of the events that lead up to her arrest.
  
  “I can’t say I know an Aaron Bennor,” the elvish man said, his nose crinkled up a bit at the recognition of a human name, “However, there is no mistaking that this is one of Lady Lunni’s flowers. I can confirm her mana trace upon it. He must have been a magi under her command. If he died then he did his duty well.”
  
  The mage lowered the flower and carefully placed it within a pocket of his robe. He eyed Doi suspiciously at her wild claims of having been bestowed a gift from Astell. In fact, he gave a small chuckle at it, “A human receiving a blessing from the Guiding Star herself? Well, as likely as your story sounds, I’m afraid you will have to demonstrate this blessing of yours after thorough questioning.”
  
  With a smug grin on his face, the mage turned away and motioned to the other guard to follow. With a flick of the mage’s wrist, Doi was lifted up from the ground, suspended in her arcane prison, and floated behind the two. The guard with the spear took up the rear.
  
  The three made their way through the gate of the encampment. From within her prison Doi could see wounded troops being rushed towards medical tents and a group of white-garbed magi circling a white horse covered in blood. While it would take her a moment, Doi could recognize the beast as the unicorn named Sylvyrmyst, the steed of the magi that had helped her in battle. The creature appeared to be unconscious or dead, laying limply upon a floating stretcher made of shimmering arcane cloth.
  
  From Doi’s position she couldn’t quite say just how many tents made up the encampment, but the walls appeared to be quite advanced for something that should be a temporary military base of operations. In fact, the whole place seemed to be encased in a shimmering bubble of magic. The camp had been built within some sort of ruins, which although overgrown and broken, provided a natural defense on most sides of the camp. Water flowed through the ruins in stone canals, something apparent to Doi as she was brought across a bridge.
  
  Just before Doi was brought into a section of the ruins, she could catch a glimpse of a large fish-creature hanging limply from an archway, like some fisher’s trophy. Carrion birds picked at it.
  
  It was dark, damp and cold within the ruin, though the corridor was lit by tiny floating motes of magic. The guards carried her through the tunnel before turning into a dim room. There they lowered the magic prison and set it on the cold ground. Doi would be able to sit and stand within the cramped magical prison, but would be unable to lay down.
  
  There was only one other arcane prison in the room, containing a girl dressed in a garb similar to the troops who had been defending the shrine. She sat with her head tucked into her knees and didn’t say anything to Doi or the guards.
  
  The mage who had made the arcane prison dusted off his hands and then stepped back out into the hallway, leaning in the doorway to give Doi one last comment. “Right then, someone will be here to attend to you soon. It’s rather busy tonight, but I’m sure we’ll have everything straightened out by the morrow. Until then, enjoy your stay at Three-Rivers, blessed one.”
  
  He gave a small chortle then walked back the way he came, the sound of the two guard’s footsteps fading into oppressive silence. Somewhere, water dripped from the ceiling.
  
  There was only one of the floating glow-orbs in the room, making it rather hard to see anything clearly. The room was small and made of stone, lacking any sort of furnishing. On one wall there was the engraving of two fish circling each other, but the details had been mostly scratched away. A shelf sat empty below it.
  
  Spoiler: ruin and prisoner reference

  

  
• 
  YsFanatic
  Ripples spread across the water with every movement, scattering Sarah's reflection below her. Clots of thick green watergrass swayed away from her, swept by her hand-made currents. Tiny fish darted away, spooked by her movements.
  
  While not the largest lake, the lakebed dropped off into depths quicker than one might expect. Fortunately, Sarah had been careful with her steps and stopped before she could take a dunk into the water.
  
  The swordswoman’s words were met with silence melting into the scattered birdsong and rustling leaves. It would seem that she indeed had spoken to herself. At least, for a moment.
  
  Something within the lake must have heard her words, for the water plants swayed and shapes stirred just below the thin line between muted sunlight and watery murk. Small fish rushed past Sarah, fleeing from whatever was moving towards her.
  
  In no time at all, an equine creature surfaced from the water and lingered there, much like an alligator's float. Though it looked to be similar to a horse in appearance, the creature's silky hide was the colour of old moss and its mane and tail were long and flowing like blades of seagrass. The vague glow of the creature's eyes were mirrored by several other pairs in the water, betraying the location of its kin who were still submerged in the water.
  
  The one who lead them was closest to Sarah, just within arms reach from her. It lifted its head a little above the water and regarded Sarah with bulbous, expectant eyes.
  
  
  

 

[Solirus]

Rodal - The Vessel of War
Location: Frontlines
Interactions: Juju YsFanatic ​

There was a simple yet awkward silence after the blade offered their counter-proposal, Rodal didn't turn to face it instead gently petting the mount to calm it down. "Good enough," Rodal broke the silence, finally spotting a leather sheathe laying on the mud. Picking it up, Rodal carefully inspecting it then swinging it to remove any mud that clung to it. "I accept the contract." Turning to face the blade, Rodal witnessed crackling red energy bounce between himself and the blade, that energy soon turning into a chain from the blades gem to his chest then finally fading. Once the display was over, the blade moved itself toward the sheathe that Rodal extended outwards.

Holding onto the now sheathed blade, Rodal wasted no time in attaching it to his waist, it had been a long time since he had a proper blade on his waist, but time always failed to make him rusty. The blade was smart and manipulative, it would certainly look for any potential loopholes and flaws in the contract to exploit for it's own benefit so he would have to be prepared for them.

In the meantime, Rodal wouldn't be in deep thought and would need to get moving. The older lady remained as stiff as a corpse, and looked like one too, but she was still alive. Unsummoning Titan, Rodal carefully picked her up, leaving her slumped on the back of the mount.

Climbing on himself, he got a better view of the battlefield, it was a bloody mess, the land had lost part of it's beauty and it laid scattered with the bodies of both armies. This scene was not unfamiliar to him, it oddly felt like home even when most of his life was spent chopping wood and dealing with political opponents. Yet the utter disaster and chaos of it all was as welcoming as an old friend.

Redirecting his thoughts back to his own predicament, Rodal rode his way towards the distant temple to which he could only summarize was the target of the retreating forces and the side which he was going to fight alongside.

Moving to: Temple Gates​

 

[ThatWhichShouldBe]

Han Liuyang

Han sighs with relief as the Wyvern leaves, before noticing Toko arriving next to him. He looks at her with a wry expression, noting the paleness on her face- Whatever Toko did to transform, it evidently was at least a little taxing. He barks out a little laugh, as Toko starts talking, the King coughing up a few droplets of blood from the exertion. He waves at her weakly, a grin on his face.

"Oh, I've had worse. Don't- Oh?"

His eyes turn to the orb as it flashes, beginning to fly up into the air. The King's eyes narrow, as he puts a hand on Toko's shoulder , the woman beginning to sputter and panic as the orb flew away. Ah, the work of the divine. Ever fickle. Ever capricious.

"Don't worry yourself. All this was so that they couldn't get the orb, eh? I imagine it's going somewhere that's going to be very hard to reach- if anyone can reach it at all."

He braces himself as Toko picks him up, Han straining his muscles to help her. He was weak, yes- but he wasn't so weak that he couldn't help her, that he couldn't try to stand on his own two feet. Even if it hurt like a motherfucker. The King just smiles and takes in a deep breath as they fall into the waters, before they speed along through the waves of the lake towards the shore. Han's glad he didn't have to help her swim- he wasn't sure if he had that much in him at this point.

November Witch
Han pulls his energy together as he stands, supporting Toko up as much as she was supporting him, as they begin to make their way towards the temple.. The man waves at the beast-woman in front of him, giving her a wink as he speaks, a jovial tone to his voice despite looking like a man half-dead from the copious burns covering his well-muscled body.

"Frankly, Toko here probably needs some help getting back. Don't pity me too much. I've had the fortune to meet three pretty ladies in one day- A few burns is nothing," the King jokes with a grin.

 

[YsFanatic]

Faint bits of knowledge floated through Sarah's mind as she examined the creature. It reminded her of what little she had heard of kelpies, but as aquatic terrain was not something she was suited for she never went out of her way to research them. Even if she had, the swordswoman wasn't sure it would have been of much help considering that there were different versions of the things depending on the world and for all she knew this one was completely different than the ones they had records of.

The old woman raised an eyebrow at the entity while crossing her arms. "If you are expecting me to go for a swim, forget it. I used to be mediocre at swimming, but at my age? I'd sink like a fucking rock." A light chuckle accompanies the end of her statement. "If you don't want to talk, fine. We can just keep staring at each other until I wake up or die. I've got no problem just waiting this out."

Juju

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

The Astellian Camp
Juju​

As they should have, they accepted her reasoning and let her in. The guards' arrogant tone did not go unnoticed, nor did their doubt at her claims. None of this was new to her; no prophet in history went without their naysayers. Especially her. Ibara wasn't built in a day—it was something her grandfather devoted his entire life to constructing. To them, she merely offered a wider smile. One day, they will look back on this moment and realize their shortcomings. And all will be fine, for they will repent. One day.

Doi put up no resistance as they brought her to the cell. She saw the unicorn that granted her protection; the large fish creature reminiscent of the simple creatures from her home. She offered a silent prayer to each.

After overcoming His trials back in Japan, sitting in dark, damp, and cramped cell was nothing. "Thank you," she said to the guards.

One day.

But now was not that day. Taking her attention was the only other prisoner with her. A girl, alien compared to those loyal to the Guiding Star, sat defeated. "Excuse me, what is your name?" Doi sat to match her height, wanting to come across on equal terms. "I hope you do not mind me asking. My name is Murakami Doi. Fate brings people together for a reason, and it's no coincidence that we are the only two in this room."

 

[November Witch]

Autumn Ichor

Status: Weary, relieved, uninjured.

Autumn wondered how the other knew it would be safer. She didn’t want to split up from this person, after finally someone who didn’t seem to want to kill her. But she didn’t just want to leave someone in need. She’d already done that and…

Autumn shivered at the thought.

Was that a threat? Autumn was partly glad she didn’t follow the other now as she watched her walk off for a moment. What a weird interaction. The case of a head injury still lingered on Autumn’s mind. She would feel, yet again, incredibly guilty if it was one and she let someone with a severe head injury wander off. But if she was dangerous… Then Autumn wouldn’t want to follow her. Her head turned back towards the water, and through the waves and mist she found a small girl appear, hauling a large man out of the water.

She rushed forward to the two as they stood and supported one another. Hearing the woman, she knew what she needed to do. Clear and concise instructions and a location. It seemed to be the same place the other girl had just left to… If only Autumn had made her stick around for a few moments longer. Then there’d be another body to help. As she approached, she got a better look at their injuries and didn’t like what she saw. She was about to ask the man, who looked the worse for wear, if he was okay. But she heard him speak, and if he could crack a joke at a time like this, he was probably fine. So she turned her attention to the girl.

The girl seemed to be shaking and looked better than the man, but Autumn assumed her injuries were likely just as serious, even if they weren’t as obvious. Unfortunately, not being very strong meant Autumn didn’t think she would be of too much help physically helping or supporting them.

“You two look to be in horrible condition, but I’m no doctor and no soldier. I can’t help if we run into anyone. I'm glad to see one of us is well enough to be making jokes at such a time.”

Autumn replied, reaching out to them both. She would place a hand on them, and they would each feel some magical energy return to their bodies. Autumn gave what remained of hers, about half, to them. She hoped this would help them in some way, as it was the most she could do in that second.

“I’m unsure if that will help, but it’s all I can really offer.”

She got on the other side of Toko and attempted to help her stand and continue, what would be a long walk, to the temple.

“I’m unsure of where I am or what is going on, I hope you two could help me figure that out once you’re all safe and rested.”

Juju ThatWhichShouldBe