Fantasy For Astoria! - (Reboot!)

[Parrot Parfait]

CrowMentions: FireMaiden Seraph Darkfire Grimmlock
Twas only a moment, but Crow’s peripheral vision caught a shiny glint off towards the forests. He swerved his head left and right, tilting his head in all directions to find what had caught his eye, but he couldn’t exactly pinpoint the source of the glimmer. For now, he’d merely shrugged off the distraction and resumed observing the brownie below him. However, when the elf duo began dancing, he quickly realized the brownie was not going to get spotted anytime soon, and with his limited attention span, he wasn’t too happy about sticking around to see elves dancing. He’d might as well check out what had caught his attention, and that’s exactly what he’d do. In an elegant leap, Crow pushed off the branches and into the air, flapping his wings to take him back towards the forest.

By the time he’d already reach the edge of the town, the small battalion that had been spying on the town was already out of the forest and walking into the town. Crow, upon seeing this odd group, grew curious. This group certainly wasn’t an ordinary band of travelers nor bandits from what Crow could tell. In all his accumulated years, he’s only seen this type of group a beak-full of times, and this only during times of duress. Their presence worried Crow. Eager to know their motivations, Crow followed along the battalion, hopping from roof to roof, crowing every so often to call additional crows to watch over what could be entertainment and opportunity.

Eventually, the battalion reached the town square. Crow was not too far off from the group, watching above from one of the rooftops closest to the midsection of the group. The leader of that group yelled something about a fugitive and a Malachi Fields and…

“Yada, yada, yada,” Crow thought to himself, growing impatient after he’d realize this group were just some impudent humans that like to ruin fun. Crow was only half-listening, until the torches began getting lobbed onto the roofs. Immediately, the fire set the roofs ablaze, causing panic to strike in Crow’s head.

Crow let out some explicatives by cawing, which translated to “Oh no, the booze!” However, Crow didn’t have time to think further. Shortly after, a torch was flung in his direction. Reflexively, Crow immediately conjured a gale, one much stronger than the one he’d use earlier that day. That did three things:

One, the gale definitely blew the torch thrown at him back along with some other mid-air torches, falling on the soldiers.
Two, some of the burning hay and some lying torches were picked up, landing on some poor, fleeing villagers.
Three, the fire began to spread much faster.

“Oops,” Crow muttered to himself, “didn’t think that one out, did I?” A few soldier cursed from the burns, villagers screamed out in pain, and the blaze was hotter than ever. Welp, this problem was out of his claws now. Not wanting to stick around, Crow fluttered away in the opposite direction, catching one of the blaze's updrafts before soaring even higher through his wind magic, far beyond what a normal bow could reach. From his high vantage point, he could see all the little people fleeing towards the town hall. For now, he’d be perfectly fine watching from above, safe in the sky.

 

[RedLemonReturns]

The cheering and merry making in the streets died down, causing Alixaviah to look up from her mug of ale. In her drunken state, whe as not prepared to see a large number of soldiers flooding the streets. Confusion contorted her features as she looked on, slowly lowering her tankard back to the table. Why the empire's men were sent here became clear as the general spoke.

The Giantess stood, intent to adress the general directly. She was a Roalon Guard, after all. If there was truly a fugitive here, was it not her job to aid in their capture? Did justice not need to be carried out?

These thoughts all at once fled her mind as the general turned and gave the order to burn the town. Shock overtook Viah now, stunning her in place for a moment where she stood on the main road Halamead.

This wasn't right. Why would they burn the entire village? So many innocent people lived here, and so many more traveled from far away to attend this festival. Was the empire really willing to kill so many just to find one criminal? This wasn't justice by any measure of the word.

The Large woman's eyes scanned quickly around untill she spotted the masonry of the town hall. It wasn't far, but there were so many people fleeing in all directions. Chaos erupted in the streets as more and more buildings caught fire and the soldiers began to target the the festival goers. Making a last second decision, Alixaviah ran towards the edge of town. She had to get to her chariot. Thats where her armor and weapons had been left when she came in to the town. She would try to bring as many innocent people to the safety of the Town Hall as she could, but she couldn't do that without her equipment.

 

[Rumble Fish]

Apples’ drunken contentment was shattered as the saplings on her ankles suddenly shuddered ominously and retracted into the fur. Apples blinked and her ears flicked as she heard voices, then commotion, and then masses of screams intertwined with the thundering of horses’ hooves. And then came, most disturbing to the half-deity, the stench and roaring of flames. She looked up and could already see sparks flying down from the roof. At once panic flew.

The man accompanying the wolf seemed to believe going through the front door was a bad idea, though only for the civilians as he recruited, who she now knew as, Alaric to fight with him. As the crowd began to stampede to the rear, Apples was at a loss of what to do. The smoke made her head spin worse than the mead and the heat already prickled against her skin, threatening to engulf her right here!

“Stupid… STUPID!” she grabbed her antlers, her yell drowned out by the panicking crowd. She should have just stayed up in the mountains. She turned to the wolf for a moment, and took him by the muzzle, stroking the bridge of his nose, “Get yourself and them out safely, do not worry about me. I will be fine.” She was not going to run like a mere mortal from this! Apples groaned and held her hands together, trying to concentrate. But every inhale drew more smoke into her lungs, making her choke and lose focus. She tapped a hoof angrily and grumbled. It would not work here. She needed a bigger, cleaner space for this. Apples may have held disdain for humanity, but maybe it was the honey wine talking, but part of her felt that deserting this chaos was deeply wrong.

Without acknowledging the man who seemed to be taking charge, Apples grabbed her staff and, without much caution, jumped onto a round table and used it as a springboard to propel herself over the heads of the crowd, landing with a hard grunt at the back of the room and swiftly leaving through the open back door.

Once outside, her head cleared. Though, not completely. It seemed that mead also affected nymphs such as herself. Apples gripped her head and groaned as she looked around at the mayhem. Most people seemed to be running in one direction, toward a large building in the middle of the town. As she looked around, her ear twitched and she looked upward to see a bird flying around well above the danger zone. Apples scoffed.

“I’d take further flight if I were you, brother!” she called up though she doubted he would hear. Wordlessly she cursed the bird’s advantage before looking around. The mayhem seemed to grow more and more insane as it went on. Deciding she had not much choice, she entered the middle of the town, a bit lost on what she could do. Or if she should do anything. Fire was nature, but not like this so it was out of her jurisdiction.

Mentions: FireMaiden Clockwork Syringe
Interactions: Parrot Parfait

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Alaric Hayden:

Spoiler: Alaric

Interactions: FireMaiden Rumble Fish

Alaric continued to drink from his flagon until he noticed the bartender suddenly move out the door, ~Wonder what's going on? Drunken Patrons causing a ruckus?~ He thought to himself. His face suddenly turned from curiosity into alarm as he noticed that the bartender was escorting said patrons inside. None of them looked as though a fight had been started so Alaric wondered what exactly was going on. It was at that point he heard the screams and the discordant sounds of crackling fire in the distance accompanied by screams of terror. The wolf's companion had moved suddenly from his haven in the corner to look out on the window in both safety and readiness. Alaric recognized the look in the man's eyes as one who scanned the environment for incoming danger. It seemed as though the danger would soon come to them as a column of soldiers led by two decorated individuals stopped outside the Inn. ~Now what?~ Alaric pondered to himself. Noticing the torches being lit Alaric started to say something, but the man quickly shut and bolted the door before any torches could be lobbed inside. The wolf that Alaric and Apples had been petting suddenly bolted at the man as if to wonder why the man had bolted the door if torches were being lit. Alaric had since placed his tankard down on the wooden countertop as he listened to the man and the bartender trade barbs and ultimately figure out that there was a backdoor that could be escaped through.

Upon hearing the man address Alaric as one who could fight and should watch their flank he nodded and spoke. "I can indeed fight, lets get everyone out first. I'll follow suit after you've taken everyone out." Alaric drew his longsword to get ready in case the soldiers did indeed try to batter down the door. Thankfully he knew a manner of fire enchantments and magic that could draw upon the surrounding fire if needed to buy more time for the patrons as well as enhance his own combat potential.

All good plans, of course, have a variable. This variable seemed to be Apples as she turned to the wolf rapidly and ordered said wolf to get everyone to safety before grabbing her antlers and using the environment to her advantage. She sprung off a table, over the heads of the crowd and through the backdoor away from the fire. ~I guess it makes sense for a being of nature to want to avoid fire after all.~ Seeing everyone begin to panic Alaric spoke in a commanding tone. "Pushing and shoving will only slow everyone's escape! Remain calm and this man will lead you to safety!" Alaric gestured with his longsword before continuing. "I've got your backs, get out of here and don't hurt each other in the process!"

 

[DarKnight36]

"This is certainly turning into an interesting day," Sondwin muttered to himself as he let the sobbing Alfreus run for safety. The fires were spreading quickly - the question remained whether to remain and potentially fight or escape the burning town. Truthfully, Sondwin would prefer the former, but he wasn't sure if the soldiers should really be cursed to die. He'd heard rumors, yes, but rumors were just that - unsubstantiated. Regardless, Sondwin didn't appreciate the actions of the army. Surely burning the village was counterintuitive to finding a fugitive.

While the armored tiefling was pondering this, he felt himself get shoved to the side by a frantic girl. Her apology and alert made him conscious that he was, indeed, being targeted. She fired an arrow back at the archer.

"Hold now," Sondwin began, frowning and raising a hand. Neither side seemed to care and since Sondwin was still in the open, the soldier targeted him again. Annoyed, Sondwin snatched the second arrow from the air before it could strike.

"Perhaps you can utilize this," Sondwin said, tossing the arrow to the girl next to him. Not particularly waiting for an answer, he vaulted over the booth in front of him and drew his sword. He raised it soberly. This action, unfortunately, drew the attention of several other soldiers, who drew their own weapons and charged.

"I'll try not to kill you all," Sondwin said with a sigh. Although he hadn't wanted to fight today, he would not hesitate to defend himself, even if that meant bloodshed.

FireMaiden

 

[Grimmlock]

Leo Donahue
​

The tension in Leo's face had just started to dissipate as he had finally felt the quick lessons from Aurelia starting to pay off. He had gotten a few more attempts at the steps before the music cut abruptly, replaced with the all-too-familiar sound of marching horses. Aurelia figured out what was going on around them quicker than Leo had, but the rogue was smart enough to continue following her lead, pulling up his hood just in time to catch a glimpse of the leading warhorse and the man sitting atop it. For the second that the two half-elves remained stationary in the crowd, Leo found himself staring daggers into the back of the presumed General's head with one thought at the front of his mind: He's got shit I can steal... Leo's focus quickly changed as Aurelia started to lead him out from near the front of the murmuring crowd as the battle-tested veteran stated the demands of the Empire. The outlaw never paid any real attention politics, the wealthy person's game, but the way that not a single person went out of their way to give up this Malachi meant that he was either a great person, or someone even more terrifying than a battalion of the Emperor's troops.

As suddenly as the roaring festival became silent for the arrival of the General, horrified screams and brawls replaced the once lively streets of Halamead as torches flew overhead, setting the town ablaze. This wasn't Leo's first time running from a royally-decreed town-torching, but fires in particular made the wind-magic oriented half-elf feel uneasy. He knew he wouldn't be able to use any strong spells for risk of fanning the flames and causing more damage to the civilians and their home. The crowd charged toward the town hall in a panic, desperately clinging to the last thing they could hear their mayor say. Aurelia assisted the rogue once more, dragging him along with her as to not get trampled by the terrified townsfolk. Leo did his best to keep up and stay low as she guided them through alleyways that were gradually filling with more smoke. When they remerged back onto the main street, the crowd and chaos seemed to have moved, or at least spread out some.

Leo had caught glances at the typical horrendous scenes the Emperor was fond of leaving at the towns a villages across his country. Corpses in the streets, still wrapped in flames. Innocent people being brutalized by armed guards in front of their children, and whole families crying for their gods as they watched their entire lives burn down before their eyes. The smoke was only somewhat effective at keeping the visible detail to a minimum. Leo's attention was brought back to Aurelia as she attempted to whistle inside the plumes of smoke surrounding them. This caused him to remember something important. His gear. Still laying back by the stand-alone tree near the town square was Leo's longsword and his pack with all of his gear was left behind and the rogue wasn't about to leave them behind. Aurelia must have had a similar thought process Leo observed as he watched her leap into danger straight through a group of guards.

"I won't be too much help without my sword," Leo thought out loud as he dove for cover back into the alleyway, leaving Aurelia to her own devices as she got her hands on a bow, hopefully a weapon she's familiar with. As she knocked her arrow, Leo ducked back into the alleyway, retreading a lot of the same ground he had previously travelled to escape. Before long he had escaped back into familiar territory that was unfortunately, now beginning to collapse as the fires burned themselves out. Leo's face twisted into a sneer seconds before his eyes landed upon the clearing that he was napping not long ago, with his gear sitting right where he had left it. Leo's face straightened out, making a quick charge across the road and in between burning stalls, utilizing just enough of his passive ability to make it there in one or two fewer steps. A wave of relief washed over Leo as in seemingly one swift motion had slung his pack over one shoulder and this sword over the other. A few more adjustments and Leo was packed up, ready for the next move, town hall.

With his head on a swivel, scanning the nearby area for guards out for shakedowns, Leo slowly drew his longsword from his back, holding his blade in his right hand, leaving his left open to two-hand or dual wield with his dagger. It didn't take long for the half-elf to see that he was closer to the town hall than before, most of the crowd had cleared out of the center of the square, and there were still a good chunk of guards roaming about, picking up what was left behind and fighting with stragglers. He thought about how Aurelia was still behind, facing guards and fighting to get to the town hall, but quickly repressed a creeping urge to turn back and offer his assistance. Leo was appreciative of her efforts to get him out of the stampede of people, but overall, he was more the kind of person to look out for himself. I'm not a hero, or anything like that. Not to mention she's a half-elf. And quite a beautiful one at that. I'm sure she's had to fight her way out of plenty of situations tougher than this before. Just like that, Leo was on the move toward the town hall.

He kept his head down as he swiftly moved from cover to cover, using whatever debris, smokescreen, or group of people he could. A panic like this always made it easy for someone to 'get lost in the crowd' and that was one ability that Leo prided himself on. Soon enough, his sneaking found Leo in another rather secluded alleyway. There were multiple walkways laid on the side, and the outlaw was on his toes. Passing two of three of the side entrances gave Leo bit of comfort, but it was too early to relax. As if on cue, as Leo peaked around the wall to check if the last walkway was clear, a lone guard, seemingly on his way to take a leak, walked right into Leo. For a second they stood there, just looking at one another as they processed what was happening. The guard had just started to open his mouth, possibly to question him, or maybe call for help, but it didn't matter. Leo's instincts kicked in faster than the guard's and before the armored soldier could get a sound out, Leo was six feet in the air, planting the bottom of his foot right into the center of his face. Hard. The rogue used his body weight to push the soldier backwards, and for good measure, used another pulse of The Storm's Calling the kick off, back into the air before landing with a roll, and exiting the alleyway, leaving the soldier there unconscious with a broken face. It wasn't much longer before the yelling and crying of the devastated victims became almost overwhelming, signaling to the half-elf that his destination was just around the corner.

Interactions: FireMaiden

 

[Goonfire]

Enver Bronte

Enver stood frozen in disbelief. A general searching for one man made a move befitting a bandit chief. The paladin’s head spun; who even was this man they sought? Whose crimes were so heinous, the emperor would ruin thousands of his own subjects' lives to reach him? It sounded more like the rage of a small, insecure man who pretended to know the will of a sadistic god, not the decree of a wise and fair ruler.

That was when the anger welled up in Enver. It burned in his chest as the answer became clear: No offense was grievous enough to warrant punishing innocents. It only took a brief moment for him to grab his few possessions from upstairs. “If this is how the empire wishes to treat their people, then I wish to not hold any title,” he growled while tightening the straps of his cuirass. “I will renounce my noble status and oppose this tyranny wholeheartedly!” He then drew his shillelagh, letting out a spirited war cry before wading through the rallying people towards the exit. “We shall carve our way to the town hall, if we must! ONWARD!!!” With that, he barreled into the streets of the burning town, furious mob in tow.

The bar-goers were poor fighters, but they managed to push through the streets via brute force and sheer numbers. Bottles, buckets, and bar stools flew through the streets, smashing into soldiers blocking the way. Burly men swung with improvised weapons, bludgeoning anyone foolish enough to stand in the way of the mead-drunk stampede. Not everyone made it, though; at least a dozen chaps met their ends at the hands of more nimble fighters.

Situated at the front of the group, Enver had the best line-of-sight on the town hall. He turned to see a man—an amored, horned swordsman. Soldiers approached him from multiple sides, the bloodlust evident on their faces. Near him was a woman of elven lineage, the target of an archer. Without a second thought, the noble launched himself into the fray. One soldier's eyes bulged as the bulbous bludgeon made contact with the back of his head. He fell forward, unconscious, helmet dented. Another turned to face Enver, only to get his nose smashed. The enemy stifled a pained yell as he clutched his bloodied face.

FireMaiden DarKnight36

 

[DarKnight36]

Situated at the front of the group, Enver had the best line-of-sight on the town hall. He turned to see a man—an amored, horned swordsman. Soldiers approached him from multiple sides, the bloodlust evident on their faces. Near him was a woman of elven lineage, the target of an archer. Without a second thought, the noble launched himself into the fray. One soldier's eyes bulged as the bulbous bludgeon made contact with the back of his head. He fell forward, unconscious, helmet dented. Another turned to face Enver, only to get his nose smashed. The enemy stifled a pained yell as he clutched his bloodied face.

The ring of metal on metal sang out as Sondwin parried a soldier's blow, his sword sliding like water to slice a deep but (hopefully) not fatal wound in his opponent's side. The soldier fell, clutching his side with a cry. Another arrow twang but either the archer had missed Sondwin or was aiming for someone else.

"Thank you for the assistance," Sondwin said to the armored man who had joined them. A paladin, here? How strange! But Sondwin would not spit on good luck. "It seems these soldiers have no sense of honor." He turned to glance back at the girl who was exchanging arrows with the archer. How was she faring?

Goonfire FireMaiden

 

[Radish__]

​

The entire evening, Ina had spent seated near the dancing people. Having been hired to perform much later in the night, but seeing as this was a festival, she decided to enjoy herself. She set up a small easel, and began to paint. At first, she was just focusing on the general festivities. After some time, however, she found herself surrounded by children.

"What are you doing?" a curious child asked, placing her small hands on the woman's leg.

"Painting, would you like to see?" she asked, pulling down the paper to show the curious little ones. They all began oo-ing, their eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Will you paint us?" they asked, almost in unison. Ina giggled, their excitement making her feel giddy. She quickly set aside what she was currently working on, and pulled up a fresh sheet. She scanned the group of children, who were eyeing her eagerly.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Pose!" As she spoke, the small crowd of children began to shriek with excitement. Thus began how Inari spent the rest of her evening. Couples, children, all different kinds of people approached her asking for a painting. Normally, she would charge for this kind of thing. However, seeing the joy on their faces was satisfying enough. Plus, she was being paid well for her upcoming performance. And so she began. The paintings were rather quick of course, with sparse color, and yet everyone seemed pleased. Having their happiness immortalized was something that could be hard to afford.

Once the crowd had mainly dispersed away from her, and there were only a few straggling children satisfied with watching her paint, Inari noticed two elves dancing in the crowd. She smiled, and began painting the scene. The children watching her asked questions about her abilities, what she was doing, and she answered each of those questions patiently. They came and went throughout, stopping by after playing various games and showing off their treats and rewards.

Inari barely noticed that the crowd had quieted down. Upon seeing the men wearing the symbol of Terberis She stiffened and quickly stood up. The nearby children clutched at her skirts, distracting her from the fear that pulsed through her body. What are they doing here? The thought to herself as he called on the mayor. She frowned at the mention of Malachi Fields. The name sounded familiar, but she couldn't place it. Still, she felt a small wave of relief crash over her. At least they aren't looking for me.

When she heard them mention burning the town, she panicked. Burning the town down? What the hell were they thinking? She looked down at the two children that were now hiding behind her. Surely they must be joking? But when the all too familiar scent of burning buildings hit her nose, she knew she was wrong. Quickly she turned and got on level of the children.

"Listen carefully little ones. Stay very close to me, do you understand? Do not stray. I will help you to safety." They nodded in agreement, and Inari nodded her head. The mayor had mentioned the town hall, so that was exactly where she would take them. She stood. "Hold onto my dress, and do not let go," She commanded, as she pulled out a small ocarina. Once she felt their small hands on her, she began to play. After a few moments, a vicious wind picked up around them. It was keeping the smoke at bay. Inari began to walk, her song unwavering as she made her way through the chaos. She could hear the whimpers of the little ones behind her as she made her move. However, she could only make it part of the way before the winds began to die down, and Inari was feeling exhaustion pulling at her.

"It is time for us to run, can you show me which one of you is the fastest?" she asked, tucking the ocarina back into her pocket. The kids perked up a little at the challenge. "Do not stop until you get inside of the townhall."

And thus they all ran. Ina was beginning to be out of breath, but she pushed forward, doin her best to ignore the burning in her lungs.​

 

[FireMaiden]

• Aurelia
• Roman

• Aurelia Barrows
  Location: Halamead, The Streets
  Interaction: Seraph Darkfire (Aloi) DarKnight36 (Sondwin)
  Mentioned:
  The bow Aurelia had picked up was, let's be honest, a piece of dog shit in comparison to her own. It was splintering, the string needed badly to be replaced, and it's draw weight was so light, Aurelia threatened to snap the string each time she drew. The smoke, the fires, the clashing of civilians and soldiers alike made it difficult for her to aim true. She didn't want to hit anyone innocent. Nor did she believe these soliders should be felled en masse. Her focus for the moment, was ensuring the enemy archers couldn't get either a good angle, or a decent shot. They took had to take into consideration the environment, and through the chaos she could have sworn they were cursing their general. That being said, nothing would prepare the other archers, soliders, or even the teifling standing nearby for the shrill scream that left the woman's lips when Aloi finally made his presence known. Of course she could feel the extra weight in her hood, but never had she considered the possibility it was something that could talk! This sound was cut short as a solider barreled down on them, Aurelia being left with little time to respond. But as she moved to dodge, her steps carried her further away, much faster than she had been anticipating. "Thank you?!" Aurelia squeaked to her unseen support, bringing the bow back over her shoulder to swing into that soldiers neck. As she did, her stumbled forward just as the horned giant offered her an arrow. "Much appreciated!" The woman beamed, grabbing it with fumbling fingers. She'd notch it and draw, apperntly exerting too much strength all at once. As this time, when the arrow was sent flying, the string would snap.
  
  The shot would karine a little off course, but still hit her mark. It grazed the archer's eye, causing him to howl in pain. "Knife eared bitch! Get her!" He shouted, more soliders turning their attention to the elven woman and the giant.
  
  This seemed like a terrible predicament, her heart was racing, the heat was churning her stomach already. And without a weapon, she was at a loss. "Ah, isn't...isn't this just grand," She'd mumbled, searching a bit for another bow. Her prayers to all the gods above fell on deaf ears so she had one option. One more raising two fingers to her lips, and this time instead of a cough, she'd be able to let out a loud, shrill whistle. A few seconds would pass, no response, nothing at all. Aurelia was forced to drop back down into cover, more soliders closing in around her and the giant. "If this turns out to be our ends... I'm Aurelia. Nice to meet you!" Chaotic introductions were always interesting. This one especially.
  
  From the chaos, she could hear an assortment of cheers and as she glanced up over cover, she spotted a gaggle of the townsfolk lead by a rather...sparkly? Was he sparkly? He seemed kinda sparkly. And just behind them, most likely unnoticed was a giant, lumbering form. Paws hit the cobblestones, propelling the beast forward. The fire singed the very tip of his tail, but Magni tore across the street towards Aurelia. "Haha!" The woman cheered, vaulting over her cover to meet her companion halfway. "Oh who's a good boy? Wanna eat some soliders?" She asked, his tail wagging but his attention elsewhere as she retrieved her bow. Magni would snap his attention down the street to where the archers had posted letting out a low grumbling growl. "Go on boy! Náðu þeim!" Aurelia commanded, sending her arm forward. He snapped his jaws happily, tapping his front feet against the street before he'd charge off. "Follow Magni! He'll clear us a path!" Aurelia near shouted, waving for the men to follow her, the woman already tearing off after her wolf.
  
• 
  
  Roman Durant
  Location: Halamead, The Streets
  Interaction: Goonfire Clockwork Syringe Rumble Fish (Apples) Radish__ (Inari)
  Mentioned: N/A
  His plan fell apart rather quickly. As the paladin ran off leading a charge of drunken men off into the fray. And the odd woman told Magni to ensure they got to safety before leaping out on her own. Roman stood there a moment, a little sunstruck. Eyes wide and mouth slightly ajar. He knew the alcohol had to affect them somehow, but this was...okay. It was fine, everything was fine. He, the bartender, and the other solider who seemed to have some sort of common sense in his head. "Right, everyone follow me out!" He'd command the rest of the drunks. They had armed themselves in one way or another. Bottles, a chair, the bartender with his knife. Roman would draw his sword as he exited the inn. "I am Roman Durant!" The man introduced himself, ensuring everyone had exited the inn before he'd began leading them down the alley. "Our goal is the town hall, we'll help those we can but your own lives must take priority," He spoke again, pausing as he heard soilders running past in the main street. Magni followed the group closely behind, but was unable to stay put at the back. As Roman came to a stop, the wolf came to the front of the group. And it would appear that they'd gain an answer as to what had caught the soliders attention. That whistle cut through the smoke like a knife. Magni perked up, Roman quickly putting his hand to his lips. "Do not respond!" The wolf growled. "Just go you stupid mutt!"
  
  Magni would growl again, but quickly advanced down the alley and onto the main street. "Wait wait wait, where's that big bastard going?" The bartender worried, his tone husted but Roman could hear the panic.
  
  "Off to his master."
  
  "But-"
  
  "I have no control over that beast, he listens to one person and one person only," Roman explained, looking back with mild annoyance. If the man wanted to chase after Magni, he could do so. But Roman would proceed down the alley. It would remain clear of soldiers, but as the fire grew worse, so did the collection of smoke. Poor airflow left the alleyway thick with that black smog, and after a few minutes, it was becoming unbearable. "I believe...I believe we have made it past the bulk of them! Main street go!" Roman commanded, quickly turning as the alley came to an end. It would put them out a little last where he could see Magni reuniting with Aurelia. Even now, she was like a beacon. If she could retain some color to her skin, or if her hair wasn't so bright. Anyway, it didn't matter. "Come on, keep going!" These drunks, he would have left them behind in different circumstances. They bumbled around, loosely gripping their makeshift weapons. They'd be no use in a fight, and he and that other man hanging at the back would be overwhelmed quickly should they be surrounded. But with cannon fodder...
  
  It was now that he spotted something else. Smoke was moving in such an odd way, and approaching rather quickly. As it grew closer, Roman was sure it was a new attack, the man ready to dodge and counter when he finally saw what it was. A woman. An... enchanting woman, two children clinging close. "Here!" His voice left his lips before Roman realized, waving her over to their group of survivors.nbut Roman was not the only one her display called to. Nearby, soliders had finally noticed, shouting something out to each other. It may have been hard to hear but he knew they were orders. Roman adjusted the grip on his sword, marching forward. That action quickly turned to a light jog as he grabbed a bucket filled with... something putrid. He'd arch his arm, lobbing it with full strength at the soliders who had turned their attention to this woman. "Quickly! They'll recover soon!"
  

 

[Clockwork Syringe]

Alaric Hayden:

Spoiler: Alaric

Interactions: FireMaiden
Mentioned: Radish__

Alaric managed to corral the remaining patrons out of the inn before he shut the door behind them. Hopefully this would throw that particular group of soldiers off their trail. As the commanding man introduced himself as Roman Durant, Alaric simply replied with a simple, "You can call me Alaric," He responded in kind. As Roman led the group away from the inn towards the stone building in the center, their apparent destination, Alaric's senses were on high alert for any soldiers that would try and ambush the group. This was the case as Alaric watched the flanks while Roman led the group until the sound of soldiers could be heard in the distance. The wolf that had been tagging along suddenly ran forward and, upon instruction from Roman to go find the wolf's master, ran off. He wasn't sure why the bartender was making such a fuss as Alaric simply thought that wolf could handle itself due to how it responded to speech from Apples.

Halamead was on fire and its' culture was burning away much like the location itself. This tugged at Alaric's emotions as this city would never be the same after today. Still, emotional and philosophical musings could wait when soldiers were not actively hunting them. Speaking of soldiers, the group came upon some of them accosting a young woman and two children. They did not look like hers which meant she may be protecting them. The soldiers soon recognized them and without a moment's notice Roman ran in to challenge them while grabbing a bucket of what seemed to be refuse. Not willing to let Roman run in alone, Alaric charged forward and quickly enchanted his blade with fire. These soldiers were not going to get away with threatening women and children. Running alongside Roman, blade burning with magical fire, he swung his sword with both hands and cleaved the first soldier in two at his mid section before plunging his longsword through the second's chest. Pulling out the longsword with a sickening wet slopping sound, the soldier collapsed to the ground. Alaric then held his longsword in front of him waiting for Roman to make his move and not exposing himself further.

 

[Rumble Fish]

Apples’ frustration grew with every chaotic second. People ran, screamed and were attacked as they tried to evade the flames. She had tried to get to the main gate but the onslaught of solders on foot and on horseback was relentless. She looked around desperately for a way to get out of this place but any elevated space she could have used to get over the wall had been burned down. She groaned audibly and looked around, hoping to find another way.

“Wretched half-beast!” Apples’ ear flicked back at the shout and, to her shock, three soldiers were charging, weapons erect and poised. Apples let out a yell of surprise and raised her staff in front of her. The sword struck the wood with a clang! Apples jolted back, twirling the staff in any direction that may deflect their weapons.

“Stop!” She yelled angrily, “Get away from me!”

The men were relentless, and Apples quickly found herself being overwhelmed. She continued to back away, trying to deflect them. What were these idiots doing?! She had seen them attack an elven-looking woman, and she held her own quite expertly. The giant wolf was clearing the way for the citizens’ escape. Smart wolf.

“Why are you attacking your own!” she yelled at the man most aggressive, “What is the point of any of this!”

“Traitor!” was all the moron could yell as he swung his sword under Apples’ staff, its tip grazing her on the midriff. Apples growled in pain and stooped, giving the soldier a chance to punch her hard. The half-deity was knocked off her hooves from the force. The trio seemed satisfied as they began to approach, jeering at her with slurs and insinuations of weakness.

“I am being serious!” Apples spat out some sort of liquid as she felt her mouth, “Back off!”

“C’mon you damned goat, fight back!” On the ground, Apples felt everything spin, and there was a sharp pain in her mouth. Wiping the corner of her mouth with her thumb, Apples stared the men down with her hawkishly orange eyes, blazing as angrily as the flames surrounding the village.

They really were this stupid.

“Well,” her voice had dropped into a contralto, “if you wish.” As she got to her hooves, she took her staff and held it firmly. As she did, she mumbled something under her breath. The saplings, once concealed in her fur, suddenly burst forth and shot toward the soldiers . They wrapped themselves around their legs, pulling them to the ground. Apples took her hand and mimed the action of pulling rope toward her. As she did, the vines yanked and the men were dragged toward her. Almost as quickly as they appeared, the vines retracted away. Apples glared down at the men, staff in hand, and leapt forward. The trio scrambled to their feet, their legs now red and hurt from the poison ivy. Apples swung the staff angrily and struck one of them. Again and again, the strikes came, and the once cocky errand boy was now actively cowing against Apples’ attacks.

His comrades fled and the remaining man stood, bruised and bleeding staring at Apples. She glared back as if daring him to try again. But to her relief, he finally retreated, stumbling as he went. Apples sighed gruffly in frustration. She saw no point in violence, it was a stupid mortal’s game. Within the deep caverns of her mind, there was a thought that violence was simply not a thing among… other beings. She could not remember.

Apples let out a hiss and put her hand against the bleeding wound on her stomach. It was such an alien feeling as if something was being sucked from it. The liquid trickling from it was a translucent brown colour and it did not seem to stop! Apples winced at how it felt, but at this point all she could do was assume it would stop soon. She took this moment to look around. Roman and Alaric were keeping people shielded and she spotted a woman trying to herd some children with her. There was even, to Apples' surprise, a giantess within these walls, all aiming for the same goal; to get people safe. With not much of a choice in the matter, Apples groaned resignedly. There were more soldiers looking her way. Armed with her staff, Apples ran forward, despite everything telling her not to. If she was going to get dragged into these humans’ madness, at least she could try to and help in protecting the innocent ones.

Mentions: FireMaiden Clockwork Syringe Radish__ RedLemonReturns

 

[Radish__]

Ina rushed forward, with the kids, a hand on each of their backs to keep them moving. The smoke was heavy in the air, and the spell was starting to sputter out of existence. She was concerned, because it wouldn't be long before they were forced to breathe the smoke, which she was worried would slow them down. Then, like a beacon inn the smog, she heard a man's voice calling out to her.

"Here!"

After looking him over, she was relieved to see no mark of the Terberis army on his armor. Relief washed over her, glad to know there were more survivors. She grinned. "See that man? Run to him! He's going to help us get to the town hall!" She shouted to the two kids, who nodded vigorously. The once scared children had a new pep in their step. However, as they started heading towards the group, she saw the soldiers take notice of them. She cursed to herself, hiking up her skirt as they ran to pull out the dagger strapped to their leg. She watched as the man who had called to her tossed a bucket at them, and his partner tore into the soldiers with his sword. She ran harder as the soldiers fought to recover, and once she finally reached the man who had called to her, she quickly reached up and grabbed his face. The palms of her hands were glowing gold as she whispered "Enhance Strength".

"You've got fifteen minutes before that wears off," She warned as she grabbed the children's hands once more. "Quickly little ones, to the group! We will be safer with them!" Then she turned her head back to the two warriors, and called out a thank you to them.​

 

[Togy]

ARCTURUS
​

"I'd like to apologize," Arcturus began as he was dragged forward and into a cell by a man twice his size and a beer belly thrice his size. The man remained stoic as he shoved Arc into the cell and locked it behind him.

"I can understand how you could misconstrue my intent," Arcturus continued, "And I'm sorry that gentlemen had to see his sons in such a state, but the river overflowing was what unearthed them, not me, and you must understand why I'd rather make them walk the distance themselves instead of dragging all three individually. Really, I had every intention to rebury them in the same spot, just farther from the riverbed."

The large, pudgy guard that had placed him under arrest simply glared at him from outside the cell.

Slumping against the cell bars like a child pressing their face to a window, Arc let out a defeated sigh. "Well, what punishment do you intend for me, then?"

"Lynching, I'd say" the guard said immediately.

Arc only huffed. "Now, that's just being overdramatic. It's much more trouble than it's worth to hang me, I assure you, you'd have to fight for the privilege because every village and homestead this side of Terberis has already called dibs."

The guard began to walk away, and Arc reached through the bars at their retreating form. "Look, you, well, you think I defiled those graves and you arrested me, and I forgive you, so why don't we just call it even? Whaddya say? No harm, no foul?"

The guard didn't react at all, quickly leaving Arc's line of sight. "Oh, come on-I said I was sorry!"

Sighing, Arcturus fell to the floor on his back, staring at the ceiling. He really hadn't dug the bodies up to resurrect them-this time, anyway. He didn't see how they couldn't understand that he physically couldn't drag the bodies himself, he was five feet nothing of glass bones and paper skin, but there were far too many negative connotations surrounding necromancers for them to assume the best of him. He could understand, really. If a stranger came out of nowhere and made his dead family members stumble around like puppets with cut strings he wouldn't take too kindly to it either. Well, no, that's a lie, Ozzy wouldn't, Arc would just be more impressed than anything. He didn't even blame the guard for wanting to hang him. If he held a grudge against everyone who had tried or wanted to kill him, he'd be very, very lonely. He was cross that the guard hadn't even extended the common decency of telling him when he'd be hanged, though. He'd have to operate under the assumption his appointment was the next morning-assuming they didn't make a show of his execution as part of the festivities because he'd seen it happen before-which didn't leave him with much time.

Over the next few hours, he attempted to pick the cell's lock with a coat button and his index finger, he tried to squeeze between the bars but stopped when he became worried he'd get stuck, and tried breaking down the bars by tackling them, only succeeding in knocking himself flat on his ass.

The sounds of the festivities outside continued as Arc resorted to chewing on the bars in one last bid for freedom. Doomed to fail from the start, but better than just sitting still and waiting for Ozzy to come rescue him. He'd told his companion to enjoy the festival without him while he finished up some experiments in the woods outside of town, and he knew Ozzy would come to break him out once he realized what had happened. It shouldn't take long, really. The lockup was the first place Ozzy checked when Arcturus went missing.

After a while, the festive cheer outside suddenly gave way to anxious silence. Arcturus paused his chewing momentarily, confused, before the noise outside changed to screaming just as quickly. Under the screaming, he could distantly hear steel on steel, dozens of footfalls, and the neighing of horses.

Arcturus heard a commotion from somewhere else in the building, followed quickly by what sounded like a scream of pain and men yelling. As he was pressing the side of his head against the bars to hear better, he reeled back as the guard from before stumbled through the holding area doorway. He was breathing erratically as he clutched a bloodied to his face, covering his eyes while the other hand waved in front of him to guide him. Blood seeped under his fingers and down his face before he finally collapsed in front of the doorway, blood beginning to pool around his head and down his back from a gaping wound Arc hadn't seen before.

Before Arc could even say anything intelligent like 'um?', three men with arming swords in one hand and torches in the other began stepping over the body and into the room. Arc had no earthly idea who they were. Each wore dirty, soot-stained gambesons coats and the tallest was the only one to have a simple iron nasal helm. Each had a Liomuran army sigil sewn onto one soldier and what Arcturus assumed was the family crest of their liege-lord on the other. They weren't knights, clearly, just little more than armed rabble given the bare necessities to contribute to a fight.

One kicked the guard's body, another lifted their feet to compare boot sizes, and the third, the one with the nasal helm, stepped over the body and into the room. Their eyes roved over the empty cells, the only occupant being Arcturus in the middle cell, oddly enough during a festival celebrating inebriation.

The one who'd kicked the body was the only one who looked even marginally upset with their actions. "What're we doing butchering our own people?" they asked, staring down at the body, "I thought we'd be razing some knife-ears' hovels, not our homes," and Arc realized he wasn't remorseful, just racist.

"Well, here's your chance," nasal helm said as the one who'd been comparing boot sizes began stealing the aforementioned boots, "Malachi isn't here, just some elf."

Arc furrowed his brow, a million different questions flitting through his mind. "Who-?"

"Torch it."

Arc's confusion quickly gave way to terror at their words. There were very few things in the world that actually scared Arc. Fire was one of them, coming second only to unicorns.

"Wait-let's talk about this for a moment," Arc rushed to say as the racist grinned, uplifted, "We can work something out, can't we? If you have any dead relatives, I could-"

Arc cut off with a yelp as nasal helm stuck a hand between the bars, grabbed Arc by the collar of his coat, and slammed him against the bars. He squirmed and tried to pull away, but he'd never been particularly strong. The other man stuck his torch through the bars and against Arc's coat, setting his coattails alight.

Squawking, Arc fell out of nasal helm's grip and against the floor, frantically shaking and rolling over his coat in a futile attempt to extinguish the growing flames. Panic overrode reason when the grunt threw his lit torch into the cell with Arc, the flames catching onto Arc's pant leg and beginning to spread across the wooden floor.

Kicking at his pant leg, Arc desperately unbuttoned his coat before the flames could catch onto his underclothes. All the while, the three stooges laughed at his own misfortune before deciding they'd had their fun and began to leave, tossing their remaining torches throughout the building as they left.

Arc hissed in pain as the flames on his pant leg seared the skin on his leg before he was able to extinguish them with his removed coat before tossing it aside when the flames spreading across it began to lick his hand and leave the skin red. It was a damn shame-he'd loved that coat.

Smoke and fire were beginning to spread through the cell, the flames slowly crawling towards the bars and forcing Arc against them like a caged animal, and the smoke forcing him to pull the collar of his tunic over his mouth and bend low. Trapped and pressed for time, he attempted to push against the cell door in his panicked state before a better plan came to mind.

Last he'd seen, the guard had pocketed the cell key, and lo and behold, there his body lay, only feet out of reach. Reaching a hand through the bar, staring into the dead man's eyes, Arc gathered as much focus and concentration as he possibly and willed the corpse to sit up. Slowly, laboriously, the corpse began to rise as if it were being made to by a force not its own. The simplest form of necromancy, what Arc referred to as puppeteering. No negotiations with souls, no deals, no strings attached, all he had to do was will the body into following simple instructions. The technique lacked finesse and control and made up for it with just about nothing else, but in a pinch like the one Arc had found himself in, he didn't have time to negotiate with a soul to save his sorry ass, he just needed help, now.

Arc lacked the calm mind and concentration to force the body upright and walk, so in lack of better options he'd started making the body scoot across the floor like a worm towards his cell. Somewhere around the halfway point, his commands began meeting resistance before being ignored entirely in favor of lying dead on the floor once more. Arc was close to ripping his hair out, partly out of fear and partly out of frustration, before he realized why that was happening.

Usually, he could puppeteer a corpse without any assistance or interference from the body's departed soul. Usually. He mostly used the ability on long-dead, rotting bodies, but the guard was a fresh corpse. They still held some attachment to their body, and as such apparently had something to say about Arc controlling it.

"You're dead, it's not like you need it anymore!" Arc yelled at thin air, knowing for a fact the man's spirit could hear him. He could feel even more resistance stemming from his temporary connection to the corpse. "Will you stop being such a child!? I just need the key to be in arm's reach!"

More resistance. "Just let me have it! It's not like you took very good care of it-do you see those fat folds!?"

Even more resistance, and Arc thought it felt like a petulant child holding onto a toy.

"YOU-Fine!" Arc yelled, the heat of the flames quickly spreading from the back of the cell making sweat run down his back in torrents, "We can negotiate!" and Arc really had to stretch for bargaining chips because the only things he had on offer were trousers, boots, and white tunic, "That man-the one next to the racist-he stole your boots! Do you really want your corpse to be barefoot!? Let me out and I'll lend you mine!"

The resistance, shockingly enough, ceased, and Arc was able to make the corpse roll the remaining distance to his cell.

"Yesyesyesyesyesyes!" Arc cheered like a mantra, quickly frisking the man for the key and unlocking his cell, stepping out just before the flames could fully engulf the small space. And, because a deal was a deal, Arc stopped momentarily to remove his boots and hastily tie them to the corpse's oversized feet. The corpse could burn with the building for all he cared, however. If the guard hadn't wanted a cremation then he should've driven a harder bargain.

Rushing out of the guard post before the flames could engulf the rest of the building, Arc stumbled out into the blood-stained streets barefoot. His next order of business would have to be finding Ozzy, but the chaos throughout the village would not help matters whatsoever. Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on one's outlook, a massacre was the exact setting where a necromancer thrived.

 

[RedLemonReturns]

At the Gates
By: The Red Lemon
with special thanks to FireMaiden For her considerable colaboritive contributions.​

The air was thick with black smoke that burned the throat and threatened to block out the sun's light as more of the town caught fire. Alixaviah took note of a few buildings that had already fallen in on themselves. Likely some of the first to be set ablaze. The giantess continued to charge down the street towards the entrance of the town. She could see her chariot now, and she was thankful that she had unhooked her horse from it as the steed seemed to have already fled from the growing flame. Three imperial soldiers stepped between Viah and her chariot, causing the tall woman to stumble to a halt. The middle soldier brandished a spear in front of himself, presenting the steel tip towards her as his companions held their swords at the ready and began to circle around either side of the giantess.

"What is the meaning of this?" Alixaviah demanded, "I am Alixaviah Njorvid, Captain of the Guard in Roalon. I served the empire just as you do. What is the purpose of this massacre?"

The soldiers stood in silence for a moment, exchanging tense glances between each other. The man brandishing his spear looked no older than 20, and his companions maybe younger. Obviously they had been left there at the gates to corral the Halamead citizens and had no plans for this encounter. "We're following orders ma'am," The young man would reply.

"Keep the citizens in town while the search is conducted for Malachi Fields. He's wanted dead or alive," The one on the left added. "It's supposed to be a controlled fire, it'll be put out once the fugitive gives himself up."

"Or he's turned in," The one on the right nodded. They all seemed tense, reach to draw for an attack or to defend, but still they all seemed tense. Hesitant almost. "I heard they're all running to the town hall. I believe it's in your best interest to do the same."

Alixaviah looked down at each of them as they spoke, a stern look upon her face. Finally, she spoke with a firm tone. "This is not a search for a criminal! This is a slaughter. Not only are these homes being reduced to ash, but the innocent citizens here are being put to the sword! Did we not take an oath to defend the empire?"

She spat at her feet then glared at the spearman. "Put your weapons down and be gone from my path. I need to get to my chariot and get my equipment so that I can Uphold that Oath, as you each should be doing. I will be heading to the town hall to defend the citizens who yet live."

"We are!" The one in the middle protested. "Catching a dangerous criminal is what matters most! The Empire will care for those who suffer in the crossfire." The town would be rebuilt, reparations paid, the families of those who maybe passed would be taken care of. "You've no idea the danger these people are in with the likes of Malachi running free!"

"He's a monster! This is...this is better than the alternative to letting him go free," The left soldier said, watching the giant woman as she glared down her nose, before giving them a command. "We don't take orders from you."

"Maybe we should let her?" The soldier on the right suggested. "The General is far enough away, maybe...maybe she has a point?"

"A point about what? We aren't doing anything wrong!" The spearman interjected, his brows furrowed. "Just turn around and go to the town hall," he spoke, readjusting his grip on the spear.

"How impertinent! Need I remind you that I am a Captain?" Alixaviah question. "You cannot truly believe that this man's capture is worth the lives of so many who have nothing to do with him. Have you not considered how this will look for the empire? A good soldier follows orders. A truly great soldier knows when not to follow immoral orders." Alixaviah straightened her shoulders before glaring directly at the spearman. "I will say it only once more, Boy. Lay down your weapons and let me pass."

"You're a captain for Roalan!" He spat in response. "We are royal soldiers under direct hire for the King himself, you have no command over us!" He clenched his jaw, staring at this woman. The other two soldiers stood there, unsure of what to do. On one hand, they didn't want an unnecessary fight. On the other...they had orders. The General they knew was watching. He had to be right? "We're doing what's right. Whatever it takes to catch a fugitive. "I can't let you pass, turn around!"

At this, the giantess reached out with an unexpected swiftness and grabbed the haft of the spear just under the tip and turned her wrist, snapping the spearhead off and leaving the man holding a stick with a splintered end. "You chose this, weak one, not me." As she spoke, the ground began to tremble beneath her feet.

 

[DarKnight36]

Sondwin sheathed his sword with some confusion. Was the wolf the elf girl's pet? Shaking his head, Sondwin did as he was bade and followed the duo into the fire and smoke. It wasn't easy keeping sight of them, as the soot and ash continued to fill the air, but Sondwin managed, breaking through the worst of it. The town center rose out of the flames, untouched as of yet. Sondwin could see others were still scrambling inside.

"Now I see the strategy," Sondwin said, eyes narrowing. "Funnel the survivors to the town center. Makes for an easy target."

But no one would surely listen to a Tiefling... Still he had to try. Sondwin moved to the entrance, intent on warning the others.

 

[Goonfire]

Enver Bronte

With most of the guards in the immediate vicinity cleared, the bar-goers continued marching towards town hall, Enver falling behind. He waved the clouds of black smoke away from his face, coughing profusely. "Eugh... You have a point. It is a mixed blessing," he managed to get out before covering his nose and mouth with his cape. "We would still have more protection with every able fighter protecting the people."

Having heard the elven archer introduce herself, he gave a dignified bow at a rather inappropriate moment. "Speak not of our chances of dying. I can heal your wounds! Enver Bronte, at your service!" He was quickly falling behind the fleeing combatants, so he jogged to rendezvous at the town hall.

FireMaiden DarKnight36

 

[Parrot Parfait]

CrowInteractions: Rumble Fish
Crow was flying in the air watching the chaos in disgust when he felt a particular gaze pointed at him. He looked around for the source, and though the figure was hard to see from so high above, he recognized the odd half-beast fae he saw wandering about earlier. Had she not been in a most precarious situation, Crow would have immediately swooped down and greeted her, but he was not one to endanger himself. However… the fae seemed irresistible, as if a certain aspect of her was calling him. Those thoughts put him in a particularly fickle mood. To go or not to go? From the rooftops, he’d probably be fine so long as he didn’t come near the fire. Besides, the humans wouldn’t pay attention to a crow as opposed to their main targets: the people. After making that consideration, he flew down despite his instincts and experience telling him otherwise. What’s life without a little bit of risk?

Crow made his way down and began observing the half-goat fae as she faced off some soldiers. When the soldiers began notching their arrows towards the fae, he grew oddly panicked despite not knowing who she was. Without thinking, Crow flapped his wings, letting out an incredibly strong downdraft. As the soldiers let loose their arrows, they quickly fell harmlessly into the ground as the soldiers looked onwards confusedly as to why their arrows had failed. Then, with another flap of his wings, he sent a strong gust towards the direction of the soldiers, causing them to stagger a bit from the draft.

“CAW~! Click, click!” He let out at the fae half-beast, which roughly translated to, “You better get clawing! Won’t be giving you another one!” Once giving his message, he immediately hopped behind a roof so as not to be targeted by the soldiers.

 

[FireMaiden]

The town hall was like a beacon. Certainly the old building, covered in moss and ivy, with weathered shingles had seen better days. The very tip of it's roof, finally starting to slouch after many decades could be seen through the smoke and flames, peaking up above the rest of the city. The citizens of Halamead knew of the scourch marks hidden by that moss and ivy, that those shingles had been replaced before and likely would again. But this knowledge gave them confidence to follow their mayor's commands. It had withstood flood and blazes, bandit and monster attacks a like. This, this was nothing. The sounds of screaming and chaos were slowly overtaken by the sounds of the soliders calling out orders, their own joyous revelry in the flames as more and more reached the town hall. They could have closed the doors at any time, refused to let anymore in. But Gerald, ever the bleeding heart and empathetic to his people, refused. He knew everyone here, every face, every story. And none of this should be cut short. Not even the strangers.

The merchants of course had made sure to quickly take their most valuable wears into the main hall. Followed quickly by anyone else close by and they had urged and begged, and even attempted to close the doors themselves. By still, Gerald refused. The few guards Halamead had and those brave enough to stand up to the soliders steeled their nerves and stood out in the lawn before the town hall. The soliders though had no apparent goal to get too close. They'd move in just enough to scare those standing guard before moving on to whatever their hearts desired. More and more they piled into the great hall, citizens and visitors, human and non, even the Faye saught refuge. As the blaze grew stronger, a few souls who knew water spells would follow their guards from the safety of the hall, wetting the ground around their sanctuary to try keeping the flames from creeping too close. It would work, but not for long.

"Please!" Someone from inside the hall cried. "Malachi just give yourself up! This will stop!"

"No! Leave him be!" Another would reply, their voices only clear once you got close. But they took faded again as once again the arguing turned to shutting the doors. Gerald stood fast still. There were more who could make it, more they could save. But the crowds desperation and panic only continued to climb. And Gerald was a physically frail man, words could only do so much. His cane smacked the hands of those who tried to close the door, his cheeks puffed up and red. He couldn't leave them out there alone, out against those beasts in royal clothes. It was only the sound of a real beast that would pause the chaos inside. The creature came skidding to a hault, pivoting on his paws to come to a stop with his back to the town hall. Stomping a paw forward, the massive wolf threw his head back and let out a loud, piercing howl that filled the air. Others followed quickly after. Elf and teifling, solider and drunks, Faye and Cleric, woman and children. One of them, a woman praised the beast ushering more people inside as a solider approached the mayor.

"We're out of time. Close the doors," He spoke calmly, a knowing look in his eyes. This man knew how hard it was to turn your back on your people. On your men. But there was nothing left they could do. Those left in the streets would be captured, killed, or hide. But the ones inside, they needed protection. Gerald woul nod after a few moments, finally relenting as he summoned those outside back in. The solider would shut the door, the sounds outside now muffled. The townsfolk were a mess. Searching the crowd for their friends and loved ones. The merchants would try to act annoyed, only concerned about their wares and lost profits when in truth, even they were terrified. The Faye themselves, who early made themselves know, could be seen dipping and bobbing through their trusted big folk, ensuring they had made it inside alright.

For the moment, things were tentatively calm, panic reduced once the doors had shut. But they'd only be able to ignore the growing blaze outside for so long.

Togy Rumble Fish Clockwork Syringe @ Goonfire sxperhuman Seraph Darkfire TheMightyRedLemon Grimmlock
@Darknight
Parrot Parfait
​

 

[Rumble Fish]

This is a collab between myself and Grimmlock

The next few minutes after chaos, where Apples had narrowly escaped being burned alive by falling roofs via launching herself off of a stretch of curtain snagged on a plank, leaving her covered in cinders and, to her unawareness, had scorched the leaves that covered her chest into dust. Apples only wore those as she had seen other female humans have them so assumed that was simply how they did things. Following the wolf’s howl, she only just made it into the building as the doors were closed.

It was exceedingly crowded, the nymph grumbled angrily as she was constantly elbowed and shoved as she made her way through. Finding a wall, she leant against it, quite winded. Apples ran a hand through her tangled mane of hair and looked around. This really was the last place she would want to be but what choice was there?

The hooded rogue had witnessed much of the distress from inside the town hall. He couldn’t blame them for acting the way they were. Leo had never really felt the connection of having a ‘home,’ but still had enough sympathy to understand why they couldn’t just follow orders and calm down when everything they knew was turning to ash at the hands of the Royal Army. The crying and pleading continued around Leo as he stayed quiet, turning his ornate dagger around in his hand, thinking about his next move.

Leo was keeping his head low, running his middle and index fingers down the side of his blade before seemingly out of nowhere, a wolf’s howl practically shook the town hall from the inside. The half-elf immediately tightened his grip on his dagger and shot his head over toward the direction of the door. Leo’s guard quickly lowered once more as he saw the people that followed, notably Aurelia. A band of even more interesting characters followed suit into the town hall.

Standing up from his seat, the tall half-elf sheathed his dagger and stashed it in his pack, and watched closely to see what he could observe from the new arrivals. The first thing that struck him was the diversity of the group of people. Leo wondered if it hadn't been for the festival, would all these people of different backgrounds, races, and cultures ever work together? His thought was interrupted when he turned to a disheveled half-beast woman even taller than himself. The half-elf’s emerald eyes stared daggers into her as he did his best to try and figure her out. He looked her up and down against the wall several times, ending with a direct stare into her eyes, appearing intimidating even though he felt quite dumbfounded.

Apples scratched at the wound on her stomach, hissing slightly through her teeth at its sensation. And it would not stop leaking, why? The semi-deity pinned her ears as she turned her head from side to side.

“Watch it!” someone yelled as they were struck with a swiveling antler. Apples, having felt the impact right into her skull, simply glared down at the speaker, who seemed to shrink at once. Shaking her head and muttering something about “stupid humans”, she was about to keep picking at the wound when she felt another pair of eyes on her. She lifted up her head and spotted a pair of green eyes glaring at her. Frowning a little, Apples stood up at her full height and stared back with her piercing orange eyes.
Leo was unphased with the returning glare staring right back at him. He squinted a bit more, keeping eye contact before breaking into a stride, nudging people out of the way with his shoulders making his way across the hall. He stopped only a couple feet away from the stranger. His head was tilted upward to keep the extended eye contact but kept his guard obviously lowered.

“What are you?” Leo questioned bluntly, taking a quick peak upward toward her antlers before returning to her striking stare.

Apples’ ears flattened further as the elf approached and asked her his question. She did not answer straight away, mainly out of being completely taken off guard at the bluntness of his statement. She scratched her now bare chest as she tried to come up with an answer that would satisfy a mortal enough to not have follow-up questions.

“A Nymph.” she answered finally, looking down at him with no real discernible expression, though she dearly wished to be able to leave. The heat, dark and lingering smokiness was beginning to make her feel odd. A strange dull sensation settled uncomfortably in her throat.

The subtle cues coming from the Nymph pointing to her uncomfortable state went right over the curious rogue’s head. Leo lifted his hood up slightly, revealing strands of his silver hair as he continued his pestering.

“What does that mean?”

“It means I’m a Nymph,” Apples answered, “not human.” she scratched her ear. Conversing was very much not her forte. When she grappled with her own memories, all she could remember in terms of communication was body language and occasionally yelling.

Leo’s brow furrowed at her response. He made an obvious glance down toward her hooves before responding.

“I’m not fully human either, but I don’t have hooves... Are all Nymphs like you?”

“Um,” Apples rubbed her temples, why was this feeling not going away? “I believe so.” she scraped the stone floor with one of her hooves, “Or not. I do not know.” that was not a lie, having only woken up a few weeks ago, Apples had virtually no recollection of what happened before. All she knew was that these stupid humans were taking up more and more of what was once her people’s world!

“Do you have special abilities? Being a Nymph I mean?”

“Well of course!” Apples glared at the ceiling for a second before bringing her eyes back down, “this… idiotic form isn’t even my true one!” She picked again at the bleeding wound which was slowly becoming worse, and the feeling was even more irritating. But moreso annoying than this barrage? Who knew.

“A true form?” Leo questioned once more, this time however drawing notice to the sap-like substance dripping from her torso. His head lowered and brow furrowed again as he continued to examine it. “Is that a wound?”

The rogue had no supplies on him for first aid, and even doubted that his emergency first aid training would have any effect on the mysterious woman.

“I think you should have that looked at…”

“Yes, my true-!” But Apples was cut off by his second question. She blinked for a second before glancing down at said wound on her midriff which, thanks to her picking at it, had gotten bigger. She turned her attention back onto the elf and shook her head slightly.

“…I cannot be wounded.” She answered plainly. This is something a few hours sun-basking would fix, though Apples was greatly aware of the fact that would be impossible for now, “Unlike you mortals I-OW!” She was cut off by an involuntary wince and she put her hand back across it. She hissed something through her teeth, what was this?!

Leo nodded along as she answered initially, but quickly returned to his intimidating stare, seemingly deeper into her eyes this time. His tone seemed more serious this time than his previously jovial demeanor.

“You want to talk about mortals? We can have that discussion after you get that sappy wound patched up.”

“Don’t you tell me-!” Apples had to stop talking or the next words out of her mouth would be a string of expletives, though none any mortal would understand, “I do not need ‘patched up’.”

Leo let out an audible sigh as he dropped his gaze once more. He was understanding of pride, but not to the point where it endangered one’s life.

“You’re right, ‘patched up’ might be an understatement. We need to find someone that can heal that gash.”

“I said I do not-!”

Looking up at the Nymph with one more ‘are you serious?’ look, Leo found himself to be more concerned with the proper continuation of his ‘interrogation’ than standing here watching her wince in pain. Without a second thought, the hooded rogue reached upward, and grasped the Nymph’s left antler with his right hand and started moving. It was a bit of a strain to get started pulling her at first, but there was knowledge to be gained if Leo was able to complete this task, so he pushed himself.

“Medic!” Leo shouted, a bit uncharacteristically, as he pushed through groups of worried townsfolk with his free hand, making his way more towards the center of the room with a wounded Nymph in the other.

Mentions: FireMaiden (Magni)

Nearby: Radish__

 

[Radish__]

Inari was thoroughly tired of just about everything as she reached the town hall. As she made her way to safety with the other townspeople, she had found the anxiety of the entire situation had just about washed away, and was replaced by a burning anger. As she watched homes crumble to the ground, and saw people desperately trying to escape the flames that spread like a wildfire, that anger was building immensely. She couldn't do much to help others as she protected the children that she was escorting, but she did what she could as they moved through the smoke filled streets. She tore off pieces of her dress and doused them in water for the little ones to cover their mouth and nose with, hoping to keep as much smoke out of their lungs as possible. And with every step she took, the rage radiating off of her became more and more intense. Seeing the fear and sadness on the children's faces pushed her to get them to safety as quickly as possible, rather than giving in to her urges to teach these damned soldiers a lesson.

Once finally in the safety of the town hall, she sighed a breath of relief. She was still angry, incredibly so, but there wasn't much she could do with that anger for now. In fact, her anger was being smothered by a sense of helplessness. She didn't know what she could do to help these people, and found herself, for the first time in years, wanting to throw around the Feroha family name in an attempt to do something about this. She also knew, though, that doing so would only get her so far. It would also likely lead to her being brought back to her family.

As she wracked her mind trying to think of what she could possibly do to help, she heard a voice calling out "Medic!". That was when she wanted to smack herself. How could she have forgotten the best way she could be useful in a situation like this?

"Here!" She called out as she turned to the voice, raising her hands above her head. As she made her way towards the voice she had heard, she recognized him. It was one of the elves she had painted dancing. She briefly wondered where the other one was, but the thought was interrupted by the sight before her. She was a little surprised as she laid eyes on the very obviously injured being in front of her. Her eyes wandered from her antlers to her hooves, then to the gaping wound on her abdomen. Ina grimaced at the sight of it, all curiosity about the horned woman disappearing as she moved towards her, her eyes glued to the injury.

"Oh, that is gnarly," she said, moving closer. She bit her lip as she inspected the wound, and then she reached out, her hand hovering above her abdomen. "Just so you know, this won't feel great. But no matter how much it may itch, you must not scratch it or I will have to start again." She warned. Inari took a deep breath and then closed her eyes and began to sing. A light breeze seemed to pick up around her as her voice carried through the hall, flecks of bright light flickering in the air about her like fireflies. The palms of her hands began to glow golden once more, as they had when she had increased the strength of the warrior who had protected her from the soldiers. After just a few moments, anyone within earshot would feel minor affects of her spell. Light burns and scrapes would begin to heal, and they would feel refreshed. But her focus was directly on the large woman in front of her.

Slowly, the gaping wound began to close. By the end of Ina's song, all that was left was an angry red line. Wiping sweat from her brow, she took a wobbly step back. "You need to be careful with that," she said, pointing to where the wound had once been. "My magic can only do so much. It is closed, and will no longer bleed, but the area is still sensitive."
​

Interactions: Rumble Fish Grimmlock
Mentions: FireMaiden (Roman)

 

[Seraph Darkfire]

Aloi Navi

A Wild Ride

Aloi chuckled as the woman fought harder "I give my thanks for not squishing me" he said grinning as she fought. He couldn't help much further as she moved but he was enjoying the ride. When she whistled he covered his ears "An end can only lead to beginnings my dear" he said with a laugh "I'm Aloi, pleased to meet you" he finished talking just as the large shape of Magni appeared "Oh wow, that is a massive wolf. Incredible, what have you been feeding him?" then the wolf was off and Aurelia was chasing after him "Right, town hall first then talking later"
Once they were in the Town Hall, he sighed and slumped into the hood a bit. He knew it wasn't over by a long shot, they were currently trapped as it was "That wasn't what I imagined this day going like" he said softly "First trip out of the city and soldiers decide to raze a town looking for someone. Any idea who this Malachai guy is?"
Mentions:
Interactions: FireMaiden (Inside Aurelia's Hood)

​

​

​

​

 

[DarKnight36]

Sondwin settled in place out of the way, his expertise lying in other areas than was needed at the moment. He flexed his fingers before folding his arms with a large sigh. He had intended on warning the townsfolk of what he believed to be a trap, but after entering, he decided it would do little to help. The people here were desperate and scared; his news would bring little comfort. No, he must instead be prepared for if that possibility came about. He would fight - die, perhaps. But he would try.

Sondwin gazed about the area. Was there anyone who needed his assistance? He had no magic talent for healing, but surely he could assist in bandaging or otherwise. Or would it be best to simply remain where he was? The Tiefling was struck by a strong case of indecision.

 

[Parrot Parfait]

CrowAfter hopping away, Crow took no hesitation to the skies, soaring up high via the updrafts. When he finished climbing upwards, the desolation broke his heart. In the past, fires have never really done much damage to his small town, as the townsfolk and fae were able to keep them under control. However, now unchecked because of the soldiers, this blaze tore through the town with fury. All Crow could do was give a disgusted sigh at the messes humans could create with their little squabbles. Across the town, a sudden blaze appeared without warning, its light coloring the blackened plumes an orange hue. That’d be the alcohol Crow guessed, and he surmised he wouldn’t be getting drunk tonight… or for many nights for that matter.

From his aerial perspective, he saw all the little people congregating to the town hall like ants to their mound. All around them, the soldiers were closing in, slaughtering in their path any soul unfortunate enough to cross them. Of course, there were a few people that fought back, but with everything becoming a pyre, they too were pushed towards the town hall. Crow supposed he’d get a closer look, but at some point, he would have to leave for certain. Smoke in the lungs hurt like crazy, even if he could easily heal the damage away. With the danger acknowledged, Crow quickly dived down to the town hall, landing on its dilapidated roof with a woosh. Through a broken roof tile, Crow peaked his head down into town hall.

“Damn!” Crow thought to himself, “it’s more packed in there than them box of apples!” Crow then popped head back out before hopping towards the edge of the roof and down at the people on the ground. A sad sigh left his beak. Those who were trapped outside pounded away at the door, pleading out to the mayor inside to spare them and let them in. T'was unfortunate they could not simply grow wings and escape. Crow looked up at the smoldering town, and approaching like wolves, he could see the soldiers, their swords and bows pointing menacingly at the building. The sight created panic inside of Crow.

Crow peaked into the town hall before yelling, “CAW CAW CAW! GUARD THE DOOR! THE SOLDIERS ARE APPROACHING THE TOWN HALL! THE SOLDIERS ARE APPROACHING THE TOWN HALL!”

Announced to everyone in the hall: FireMaiden Togy Rumble Fish Clockwork Syringe Goonfire sxperhuman Seraph Darkfire TheMightyRedLemon Grimmlock DarKnight36

 

[FireMaiden]

• Aurelia
• Roman

• Aurelia Barrows
  Location: Halamead, The Town Hall
  Interaction: Seraph Darkfire (Aloi)
  Mentioned: DarKnight36 (Sondwin) Goonfire (Enver) Parrot Parfait (Crow) Grimmlock (Leo)
  The slamming of the giant wooden doors was more comfort than Aurelia realized they would be during the dash for safety. Once those old ston walls surrounded the elven woman, her knees would buckle some, ok ne hand outstretching to find balance with Magni. "Thanks boy," She smiled softly, burning her face in his fur. He smelled of smoke and blood, and a bit of ale. But most importantly, he provided the woman some much needed comfort. This was...an overwhelming situation. Why were the soliders attacking? Who was Malachi? Why wouldn't himself in or the townsfolk turn him over? With a sigh, Aurelia would pull back from Magni, who would shift to stand behind her. His body slightly curved in a protective semi circle. He'd growl lowly at her hood, but Aurelia would wave him off. "It's alright, he helped me," Aurelia assured the wolf.
  
  "I've only fed him the normal wolf stuff. He's a dire wolf though, an elven mount. And my best friend!" She explained happily, her gaze fluttering through the crowd. She spotted Roman, which was a relief, and offered him a wave. One he acknowledged with a simple nod. "I apologize for ignoring you earlier, but you were correct. Running came first," Aurelia chuckled to her unknown hood buddy. "You're a Faye, yes? They're the only creatures I know small enough to fit in a hood unnoticed," Aurelia added with another small chuckle that turned into a somewhat hoarse cough. The smoke had burned at her lungs, coated her throat. She needed some water but knowing supplies would be limited in here, chose to ignore that need for now. "This was my first festival outside of my hometown. I understand that feeling." She had to imagine many other people felt the same way. "I have no idea who this Malachi is. Roman might but..." With another glance to her traveling companion as he approached the teifling she met earlier. It was good to see he still lived, and her thoughts briefly wandered to the other man and Leo. Had they made it? "He also looks somewhat confused. Maybe he just ran into trouble with these soliders?" The woman pondered.
  
  Though her pondered would only last a few moments as overhead, she heard the warning cry. From her spot, when she looked Aurelia could only see the hint of a familiar bird. "Damn it," The woman muttered, turning to scout for the vantage point. Up on the wall, she spotted a window. It was tall, and looked to be just deep enough and just wide enough for Aurelia to use it as a perch. "Come on Magni," She spoke, swiftly mounting the wolf. He moves to the wall, letting Aurelia climb up to stand on his back. Once she was stable, the wolf would lower himself down until his belly was nearly touching the floor. He seemed to wind up, Aurelia lowering herself as well into a half-squat of sorts before Magni sprang up. Seconds after he started to move, Aurelia would jump. The force from the both of them would propell the woman upward, her hands finding the window sill. But her footing would slip. "Shit!" Aurelia's chest hit the stone, her body tumbling backwards. Thankfully, she wouldn't land on the ground but instead, be caught by Magni.
  
  "Safe to say Aoli...if you wish to leave my hood, you can," She said, taking a few moments to catch her breath. Whether or not the Faye moved, Aurelia and Magni would reset and once again, propell her upward into the window sill. Only this time her footing didn't give way and the woman was able to claim the perch. The window creaked open, the rusty hinges screaming in protest. The bird was right, the soliders were getting close to the door. Her brows narrowed, notching an arrow. She aimed half heartedly, the arrow whizzing through the air to embed in the ground just before them. "Komdu nær og þú munt farast!" The woman shouted. The odd phrase in a language they didn't know wouldn't help the panic of those close enough to hear it but that with the arrow was enough to deter the soliders for now. "I've learned if they don't know what you're saying, they're more likely to listen."
  
• 
  
  Roman Durant
  Location: Halamead, The Town Hall
  Interaction: DarKnight36 (Sondwin)
  Mentioned: N/A
  This was a fine mess. Just...just fantastic. This was the last time he was going to give into one of Aurelia's childish whims, he swore it. Once they had reached the town hall, the group he arrived with would split. The drunks wandering off to find their families, the woman he saved going to help those who needed it, Roman would stay near the entrance. Nearby, the Mayor stood. He looked...defeated. To his credit, Gerald was doing his best to keep his head high. Disguse the slight trembling of his lip, address the few who dares to approach him with a smile and simple platitudes. But it was clear the man had no clue what to do. Roman didn't blame him necessarily, this attack was so unexpected...but there was an easy solution. Turn Malachi over. It would be hard convincing these people of that though, they were willing to let their town burn for him. Whoever he was, fugitive or not, these people cared a great deal about him. He began to scan the faces in the crowd, watching for anyone who might have been more protected than others. It was hard to tell though, his gaze breifly finding Aurelia's. Well, at least she has reached safety.
  
  Knowing that, he once again began to search the crowd, his eyes falling upon an unusual sight. One of those gray ox-men. He hadn't interacted with many of them during his years, but he knew they served a good purpose. With a small grunt, he would approach the creature. "You there," He spoke, his voice expectedly hoarse thanks to the smoke. "Half of those able to fight are drunk or injured, and I need to take a look around. Guard to door...please," Roman spoke. Groveling to the likes of these people was beneath Roman, but the man had little choice. And so he'd give the teifling little choice, Roman already departing before he could answer. Gracefully he'd move through the crowd, scanning each face. There was a mix of panic and sorrow. Worry and anger. All understandable of course, but he was looking for guilt. Shame. Anything to pinpoint this Malachi character. A task made harder as what sounded like a bird made an announcement.
  
  Those who had paid attention would begin to panic all over again, Roman could see it. Hushed voices grew louder and louder until the aguring and sobbing started all over again. He could see though, Aurelia attempting to gain higher ground. "Everyone please!" His voice boomed, carried over the panic by the stone. "Calm yourselves, those of us able to fight will no let any harm come to you," He said, watching as Magni began to pace between the door and Aurelia's perch. "See that woman? She's watching their entry, Aurelia will not let them reach the door. You are safe!" He urged. It seemed to do some good, the panic calming again. "A plan will be made soon, for now, please remain calm. The soliders will be kept at bay, and your mayor will take care of you all. That I promise."