Graded [Frontier] Blood and Title

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", <Beastial>"​

gmimperfecti Uasal Shadow Dancer
Even if Coldclaw’s backstory of her past was a sad one, many in the realm had experienced terrible things at the hands of monsters. While sad, it did not excuse what Yukan had seen unfold. All the occult-like things he had seen as well as seeing evidence of those who may have been tortured in the pursuit of power were unaccounted for.

Thankfully Yukan felt a bit better that Zephyr had confirmed that she was there with him in a united front against what Yukan could only describe as someone misled committing evil before them. He gave a small nod when Zephyr caressed his cheek and he felt the now much more familiar wind. Indeed it seemed the Tanuki man had a knack for getting support at vital times from Gyoubu and now Zephyr.

Together they were able to get through the illusions and open the door, into what appeared to be a strange large room which was difficult to gauge where it started and where it ended. If anything else besides usual adjustment hopefully Yukan’s dark vision would come to help some to better see what was going on if need be.

The dark rituals similar to the unnatural purity which Yukan had seen, it was all rather disturbing, this Coldclaw person had been led astray in their pursuit for power, the more which Yukan saw only further confirmed this. There was some sense of the magic which radiated throughout the space. Even Yukan who wasn't very familiar with magic could undoubtedly feel the presence of the powerful magic, and how the room almost felt strangely aware of them entering it.

The altar was concerning as well to say the least, like it was set up for some kind of offering involving some kind of ornate dagger. Yukan also had a strong feeling that the book couldn’t be great news which was on the altar.

Yukan glanced around the room carefully when there was uncertainty if there were others there, but that seemed pretty unlikely at this point, perhaps illusions and or echoes of the past.

Despite all of this as they moved even farther through the chamber Dominus Coldclaw’s presence was made known to the Tanuki. Yukan was quite wary of this opponent, he had heard she had the potential of being quite powerful. Nevertheless of this hostile environment the one before him, Yukan’s Koyake clan Sashimono still was held high on his back now that he could call himself a proper member.

He was a bit surprised to see Zephyr interact with Coldclaw, but nevertheless he listened to the exchange which took place in common, not exactly expecting how calm Coldclaw was, since they had made it to the ‘heart’ so to speak.

Despite the tension, the Koyake clan member could tell that Dominus Coldclaw had already probably gone too far to be redeemable. In slaying this person through war, slaves would be freed and the torturous activity would stop.

After she told them to submit or see powers beyond their wildest imaginings Yukan was ready to act.

“I can assure you, Dominus Coldclaw it is a slippery slope to the underworld below. I doubt that your family members would approve of the fact that you’ve afflicted to many, what was done to them.”

He said appealing to the Personal Vendetta.

"Especially in the pursuit of something which sounds like the raving of someone who believes themselves worthy of ascending..”

“I have heard enough, I will no longer allow you to forge a ladder made of the bones of those around you as you descend deeper and deeper after what is forbidden.”

“My Yari will be your final Harae!” Yukan exclaimed,

A similar somewhat primal look after his spear had entered the pyromaniac took hold once again, as he rushed forward until he was within 8 ft away of Coldclaw with intent to inflict a Transcendent Transpierce, his Yari gleaming even in the darkness some with the force and intention he put behind the attack.

Spoiler: Actions

Actions:

1. Attempt to use Personal Vendetta knowledge to advantage to throw Coldclaw off her game.
2. Move as many ft needed until within 8 ft of Coldclaw
3. Attempt to strike with the ability [Specialize] Fighting Style [Falling Spear] Transcendent Transpierce - Reach F, Penetrating D, D Grade Ability - 2 round cooldown. Yukan attempts to stab his target up to 10 ft away with a great penetrating force ignoring up to three grades of opponent's defensively used item.

 

[gmimperfecti]

TheTimePiece Uasal

In the dimly lit Undercellar, Zephyr's ethereal presence stood in stark contrast to the heavy atmosphere around them. Their translucent hair flowed gently, as if stirred by an unseen breeze, and their sky-blue eyes shimmered with a mixture of curiosity and wariness.

As Yukan and Dominus Coldclaw exchanged words, Zephyr observed silently, their expression unreadable. Their innate connection to the wind made them sensitive to the subtle shifts in the air, the underlying currents of power and intent. While Yukan confronted Coldclaw with insights gained from the past, Zephyr prepared to respond to any sudden escalation.

With a grace characteristic of their elemental nature, Zephyr subtly shifted their stance, ready to use their control over the wind to either defend or attack. Their loyalty in this moment might be swayed by the unfolding conversation, but their primary objective seemed to be assessing the situation, gauging the true threat posed by Coldclaw, and determining the best course of action.

However, their unpredictable nature meant that Yukan couldn't be entirely sure of Zephyr's next move. Would they remain an ally until the end, or would their mercurial loyalties shift at a critical moment?

---

Beneath the weight of centuries and shrouded in an atmosphere thick with ancient magic and hidden intentions of the Undercellar, Dominus Coldclaw stood with an air of lethal elegance and controlled power. The luminescent glow of her skin, a mark of her Moon-blessed Vampire lineage, cast a soft light in the dim chamber, while her Moon-blessed Katana lay unsheathed, ready for the impending confrontation.

Her eyes, reflecting a cunning and cold intelligence, surveyed Yukan and Zephyr with a mixture of curiosity and disdain. Coldclaw's posture was one of poise and grace, yet her every movement hinted at the lethal power she wielded. She was a creature of the night, blessed by the moon, and every inch of her being exuded a dangerous allure.

Yukan said, “I can assure you, Dominus Coldclaw it is a slippery slope to the underworld below. I doubt that your family members would approve of the fact that you’ve afflicted to many, what was done to them.”

He said appealing to the Personal Vendetta.

"Especially in the pursuit of something which sounds like the raving of someone who believes themselves worthy of ascending.”

As Yukan spoke, presenting his case and intentions, Coldclaw listened, biting her teeth until her canines bit into her lips. Her mind was a maze of strategies and calculations, always assessing, always planning but this trigger...it burned like noonday sun.

"Ah, so the heroes have found their way to my sanctum," Coldclaw spoke, her voice smooth yet laced with malice. "You're still pawns in a game far greater than you realize. You seek to disrupt my plans, yet you know so little of what truly transpires within these walls." Her eyes wandered to the darkest places.

Her gaze shifted between Yukan and Zephyr, her eyes narrowing slightly. "You are unaware of the true nature of the forces you meddle with. And I, Dominus Coldclaw, am but a single thread in this grand tapestry."

Yukan cut in, “I have heard enough, I will no longer allow you to forge a ladder made of the bones of those around you as you descend deeper and deeper after what is forbidden.”

“My Yari will be your final Harae!” Yukan exclaimed,

A similar somewhat primal look from before after his spear had entered the pyromaniac from before, as he rushed forward until he was within 8 ft away of Coldclaw with intent to inflict a Transcendent Transpierce, his Yari gleaming even in the darkness some with the force and intention he put behind the attack.

With a swift, fluid motion, Coldclaw raised her katana, the blade gleaming in the dim light. "Fine, let us resort to violence. Every step you take deeper into this darkness brings you closer to a truth that might just shatter your resolve."

As Yukan lunged forward with his spear, Zephyr decided to act. Harnessing their innate control over the wind, they focused on creating a disorienting gust aimed at Coldclaw. The goal was not to harm but to distract and unbalance the Moon-blessed Vampire, potentially giving Yukan an opening for his attack. They unleashed [Gust of Confusion E], a technique that sent a swirling vortex of wind to disorient and hindering Coldclaw's ability to counterattack effectively.
Dominus Coldclaw, sensing the shift in the air, reacted with supernatural speed, a testament to her vampiric agility. As the gust from Zephyr approached, she utilized her [Supernatural Reflexes E] to swiftly sidestep, maintaining her balance despite the disorienting wind. With her Moon-blessed Katana in hand, she prepared to meet Yukan's attack head-on. The blade, resonating with the power of moonlight, was not just a weapon but an extension of her own supernatural prowess.

As Yukan's spear closed in, aiming to pierce her defenses, Coldclaw's katana moved in a blur, attempting to parry with [Blade Dance F], a technique that combines defense and offense in a fluid, dance-like motion. Her objective was to deflect Yukan's spear and create an opening for a swift, retaliatory strike.

Yukan's spear, fueled by his resolve and skill, clashed with Coldclaw's katana. The sound of metal against metal echoed through the Undercellar, a testament to the ferocity of their battle. The dim light of the chamber reflected off their weapons, casting fleeting shadows on the ancient walls.

Zephyr watched intently, ready to intervene again if necessary. Their presence added an unpredictable element to the duel, their allegiance as fleeting as the wind they commanded.

In the midst of this deadly dance, the outcome remained uncertain. Both Yukan and Coldclaw were formidable opponents, each driven by their own convictions and wielding power that could turn the tide of battle in an instant. The ancient Undercellar, with its secrets and shadows, bore witness to their struggle, a struggle that would decide not just their fates but potentially the fate of the wider conflict at hand.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Shadow Dancer

Indicus had led his group with careful precision, and their collective stealth was evident in their approach from the south. They had stayed low and silent, capitalizing on the fact that the lookouts were more focused on the areas around the slaves and the front gate, leaving the back of the fort less guarded.

Their progress, though slow, was consistent. The orcs had followed Indicus' footsteps to the letter, their eyes sharp for any traps he might have missed. Their efforts in spotting traps, combined with their skills in stealth and perception, were invaluable. Their approach and abilities, allowing them to move closer to the palisade without detection.

However, as they neared the fort, a small patrol was spotted making rounds along the back wall, presenting a minor complication. Indicus and his group had paused, assessing the situation. They had decided that waiting for the patrol to pass was the safest option. Patience had been key in that moment.

Once the patrol had moved on, seemingly oblivious to their presence, the group had found an opportunity to inch closer to the fort's wall. Here, they had discovered a section that was slightly less fortified, likely overlooked due to its obscured location. This spot appeared to be a potential entry point.

The orcs, following Indicus' silent signal, had readied themselves for the next phase – infiltrating the fort to liberate the slaves. Their cautious approach, aided by the cover of night and skilled use of stealth, had brought them to the brink of a significant breakthrough. The challenge that lay ahead was to enter the fort without raising an alarm and to locate the slaves. While the outcome of their mission hung in the balance, their current achievements marked a significant stride towards their noble goal.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Languages: "Common", <Beastial>"​

gmimperfecti Uasal Shadow Dancer

Despite how Zephyr had stayed true to Yukan so far it wasn’t exactly guaranteed that she would continue to do so, Yukan knew that much and it did truthfully make him a bit nervous, he highly doubted she’d join an enemy of the Fae See, but her fleeing like several others had wasn’t a great situation either when she had been such a valuable ally. He would need to ensure that she was well protected and that he kept his promise truthfully of not turning his back to the enemy. In defeating Coldclaw they would not only seriously demoralize the remaining enemies but perhaps they could free and arm the slaves against their oppressors if need be.

Yukan felt his heart beat a bit quicker with anticipation at seeing how the environment was shifting, it was pretty obvious talking things out with Coldclaw simply wasn’t going to work..and the way Zephyr was gauging the situation..if he thought Coldclaw there were two scenarios he foresaw unfolding..assist him or leave the scene of a fight which she didn't need too.

After the unfortunately fruitless conversation after Yukan had determined Coldclaw was far too deluded at this point to properly be reasoned with, Yukan spat back defiantly, “Your absolutism decided this path! As a member of the Koyake Clan my resolve will never be broken!”

While Yukan was relieved that Zephyr hadn’t left the scene and was willing to help even if for the time being he wasn’t thrilled that the wind didn't even as effective as it could have been, his opponent was strong and her reflexes were good, throwing out one of his most powerful attacks from the get go which he had been hoping to strike her with hadn’t lanadede but given the piercing power behind it perhaps he could damage her means to attack him with enough.


Yukan used Acrobatics F + a movement action to move as many ft away from Coldclaw to once again so that he could maintain advantage with his reach, not wanting to fight her within 5 ft or above if possible.

Undeterred from their clashing, no matter how dangerous things were getting it wouldn’t stop Yukan from sending a Lesser Transpierce her way , his Yari gleaming but perhaps not as intensely as before, it was still a formidable move based on what she had been using as of currently, as any conventional attacks were going to be hard for her to block as long as he had piercing in his attacks. He was so focused on the fighting he would be relatively unaware of anyone away who had their own sights on taking care of Coldclaw once and for all..

Spoiler: Actions:

Actions:

1 & 2 Move back as many Ft needed with Acrobatics F to try to keep Coldclaw in his advantageous range at 5-10 ft away from him.

3. Try to strike Coldclaw with [Specialize] Fighting Style [Falling Spear] Lesser Transpierce- Reach F + Penetrating E, E Grade Ability 1 Round cooldown.
Yukan attempts to stab his target up to 10 ft with a great penetrating force ignoring up to two grades of opponent's defensively used item.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus took a look at the wooden palisade before him and figured he probably could fly the orcs over the wall one at a time easily enough they would just have to be fast enough to get over the wall before a patrol circled back. Indicus explained the plan to the orcs and asked them to be prepared to hide or prevent a patrol from raising the alarm if worst came to worst.

Indicus started with the first orc carrying him with his Super Strength(E) Indicus gave one mighty beat of his wings and placed the orc at the top of the wall repeating this two more times. His skills with Stealth (F) and masking any noise he made (Undetected sound F) keeping his take off and landings quiet as he scanned the area for patrols his Dark vision (F) and Perception(F) coming in handy.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Dominus Coldclaw vs Zephyr, TheTimePiece , and maybe, just maybe Uasal

---

In the shadow-drenched depths of the Undercellar, the stand-off between Yukan and Dominus Coldclaw reached its zenith. The air, thick with ancient whispers and the weight of unspoken secrets, crackled with tension. Zephyr, the ethereal Genasi, hovered nearby, their form almost blending with the surrounding gloom.

Yukan, his determination burning like a beacon in the darkness, faced off against Coldclaw. The Moon-blessed Vampire's eyes were pools of calculated malice. Her stance was relaxed yet poised, like a coiled serpent ready to strike.

"You tread dangerous paths, Yukan Koyake," Coldclaw's voice was a silk-wrapped blade, cutting through the silence. "But even the bravest warriors can fall in the shadows they seek to conquer."

Yukan responded with a steely resolve, his Yari at the ready. After the unfortunately fruitless conversation after Yukan had determined Coldclaw was far too deluded at this point to properly be reasoned with, Yukan spat back defiantly, “Your absolutism decided this path! As a member of the Koyake Clan my resolve will never be broken!”

As Yukan lunged forward, his spear cutting through the air with lethal intent, Coldclaw's form shimmered and dissolved into the ether. Using her [Dimensional Disappearance E], she vanished from sight, leaving Yukan's strike cleaving nothing but the cold Undercellar air.

In an instant, she reappeared behind Yukan, her Moon-blessed Katana humming with a deadly energy. "Foolish warrior, always striking where your enemy isn't," she hissed, her blade arcing towards Yukan's exposed back.

But in that critical moment, Zephyr intervened. With a burst of wind-born speed, they interposed themselves between Yukan and the descending blade. "Not today, Coldclaw," Zephyr's voice was a gusty whisper, a defiance against the looming threat.

The katana met Zephyr's form, and with an explosion of ethereal energy, they burst open, dissipating like a gale breaking against the mountainside. The impact sent a shockwave through the chamber, echoing off the ancient walls.

Coldclaw staggered back, her eyes wide with a mixture of shock and rage. "Impossible! You would sacrifice yourself for him?" she spat, her gaze flickering between the dissipating form of Zephyr and Yukan.

Coldclaw blinked, trying to regain her composure, readying herself for another strike. "Your time...this Undercellar shall be your grave."

The chamber, a silent witness to this ancient battle of wills and power, seemed to hold its breath. The next move, the next clash of steel and magic, would decide the fate of all within its walls. The dance of shadows and blood had reached its crescendo, and only one would emerge victorious.

 

[gmimperfecti]

Shadow Dancer + 3 Orcs vs What's left of the Slave Compound.

---

As Indicus surveyed the wooden palisade before him, he quickly formulated a plan. With his Super Strength (E), he realized he could fly the orcs over the wall one by one. The key was speed; they needed to be swift enough to get over the wall before the next patrol came around. He explained his plan to the orcs, instructing them to be ready to either hide or intercept a patrol, should the need arise.

Executing his plan, Indicus started with the first orc. Utilizing his Super Strength (E), he lifted the orc with ease. With a single powerful beat of his wings, he soared upwards and deftly placed the orc atop the wall. He repeated this process two more times, each time with precision and care.

Throughout this operation, Indicus' skills in Stealth (F) and his ability to mask any noise (Undetected sound F) proved crucial. His movements were quiet, ensuring that the take-offs and landings were unnoticed. His vigilance didn't waver as he scanned the area for patrols, his Dark Vision (F) and Perception (F) aiding him greatly in the dim light.

This phase of the plan was executed flawlessly, and soon all the orcs were positioned atop the palisade, ready to proceed with the next step of their mission. The success of this maneuver had brought them one step closer to freeing the slaves, demonstrating Indicus' effective leadership and strategic thinking.

---

On the other side of the palisade, chaos reigned. The combined efforts of Delta's assassin ambush and the rampage of the Spider Monsters had thrown the interior of the slave compound into disarray. The Crimson Talons, a notorious band of poachers led by the formidable Legionarius Septimus Voss, had arrived, causing the remaining slavers to rush towards the front. This sudden shift in focus created a small but critical window of opportunity for Indicus and the orcs.

The Crimson Talons, known for their brutal efficiency and strategic acumen, had reclaimed their missing discipline that spoke of rigorous training and a strict hierarchy. However, their current preoccupation with the front lines left the area near the slaves less guarded, albeit still under watch by three slavers.

Indicus and the orcs, now on the other side of the wall, assessed the situation. They had a fleeting chance to free the slaves before the Crimson Talons could regroup and reinforce their position. The three slavers guarding the slaves seemed relatively unaware of the impending threat from Indicus and his team, their attention partially diverted by the commotion at the front.

In these critical moments, the fate of the slaves hung in the balance, dependent on the swift actions of Indicus and the orcs. The window of opportunity was narrow, and what of their resolve?

 

[Uasal]

~'Delta'~

Native, Orphan, Martial Artist, Razor Wire Apprentice, Infamous (Ryke), Attentive Student, Ryken Adventurer F, Intermediate Variant, Apprentice Assassin

Delta, seizing the opportune moment amidst the chaos of Coldclaw's confrontation with Yukan and Zephyr, moved with silent swiftness. The razor wire, a lethal extension of her will, hissed through the air as it aimed for Coldclaw's exposed neck.

Her movements were like a specter, and the deadly wire was an extension of her will. Delta's eyes glinted with a predatory focus as she closed the distance. In that crucial moment, as Coldclaw recovered from the shock of Zephyr's sacrifice, Delta struck.

The razor wire, honed to perfection, cut through the shadows like a serpent's strike. The Moon-blessed Katana in Coldclaw's hand was swift, but Delta's surprise attack was swifter. The wire wrapped around Coldclaw's neck, its razor-sharp edges digging into her flesh. A flick of Delta's wrist tightened the grip, threatening to sever the tyrant's head from her shoulders.

"Your ambition transcends your position. In your next life, you'd do well to remember your place... now perish"

---

Actions: 3/3​

1. Specialized Fighting Style [Deaths Embrace] [Razor Wire] E - 'Severance' - Sixth Sense F (Vital/weak-point sense), Flexible, Penetrating, Hotshot, Targeted - Manipulating her Razor Wire Delta is able to twist and turn it using minute finger movements thus making for an unpredictable and fluid attack pattern - E Grade - 1 Actions- 1 Post Cooldown. Item (2) + Stat (2) + Ability (2) - 1 from overgearing + Targeted = 10 effectiveness. Damage x2 if E grade opponent via hot shot.​
2. Basic Attack 1 Action- 0 Post Cooldown. Item (1) + Stat (2) + Ability (0) = 3 effectivness. (+1 to Action 1)​
3. Basic Attack 1 Action- 0 Post Cooldown. Item (1) + Stat (2) + Ability (0) = 3 effectivness. (+1 to Action 1)​

Attempted Bonus:
[Surprise Attack] for direct damage


Advantages/Disadvantages to consider:​

1. Advantage gained- Comprehensive understanding of enemy patterns, valuable for planning the ambush (treat relevant out of combat abilities as 1 grade higher).​
2. Advantage gained- Knowledge of traps that can be avoided or used against enemies (either remove environmental penalty or apply "trap" during one attack). ​
3. Advantage gained- Selection of strategic locations for offense, defense, and maneuverability, strengthening the team's battle plan (grant +1 to any "team-up" action where Sasha is involved).​
4. Disadvantage gained- A painful injury that may hinder her performance in the battle (-1 hp). ​

 

[gmimperfecti]

The room, charged with the raw energy of battle and sacrifice, stood still for a heartbeat as Delta's wire found its mark. Coldclaw's eyes, once filled with the certainty of victory, now widened in a mix of realization and horror. The wire, cold and unyielding, bit into her flesh, a tangible symbol of her imminent demise.

Coldclaw's hands flew to her neck, struggling against the deadly embrace of the wire. Her Moon-blessed Katana, a weapon that had brought death to so many, fell from her grasp, clattering to the stone floor with an echo that seemed to reverberate through the Undercellar.

"Im...po...ss...ib...le..." Coldclaw gasped, her voice barely a whisper. The shadows that had been her allies now seemed to loom over her, spectating the fall of their mistress with indifferent silence.

Delta's expression remained stoic, her eyes unyielding. "Your reign ends here, Dominus. The shadows you sought to control will be your final shroud." With a final, decisive motion, she tightened her grip, and the wire completed its grim task.

Coldclaw's body slumped to the ground, lifeless. Her reign of terror, her machinations within the Empire, and her twisted ambitions, all came to an abrupt end in the depths of the Undercellar.

As silence descended upon the chamber, the air seemed to shift, as if a great weight had been lifted. The oppressive aura that had permeated the Undercellar began to dissipate, giving way to a sense of closure, of an ending long overdue.

Delta stood over Coldclaw's fallen form, her mission accomplished. The echoes of the Undercellar whispered their eerie approval, their ancient secrets now one step closer to being unraveled. The dance of shadows and blood had concluded, and Delta emerged as the victor, a harbinger of change in the dark depths of the Empire.

---

As the final echoes of Coldclaw's demise faded into the stillness of the Undercellar, an unsettling change began to ripple through the ancient chamber. The air crackled with a palpable tension, as if the very fabric of reality within the [Domain] was coming undone.

The walls of the Undercellar, long standing as silent sentinels of dark secrets, began to shudder and warp. It was as though the chamber itself was reacting to the severing of its dark anchor. The stone surfaces started to peel and tear like aged parchment, revealing glimpses of an impossible void beyond. This void pulsed with an eerie light, bleeding through the cracks in reality, warping the very essence of the chamber.

Sounds of crumbling stone and the groaning of timbers filled the air, a cacophony of destruction that echoed ominously throughout the [Domain]. The once-stable ground beneath Delta's feet trembled, as if protesting the sudden unshackling of the ancient powers bound within.

The tapestries on the walls, their images of power and dark rituals, fluttered wildly in an unfelt wind, then began to disintegrate, their threads unraveling into nothingness. The artifacts and relics, once potent with magical energies, dimmed and cracked, their centuries-old potency leaking away into the expanding fissures of reality.

As the [Domain] lost its anchor, the very essence of the Undercellar seemed to tear apart, the boundaries between the physical world and the metaphysical realm it had occupied dissolving in a maelstrom of collapsing magic. The darkness that had once been a shroud of mystery and power was now a churning vortex, pulling at the remnants of the chamber, eager to reclaim its due.

In this chaos of unraveling dimensions, the distinction between the Undercellar and the world beyond blurred and then shattered. The ancient [Domain], a bastion of forbidden knowledge and dark pacts, was coming undone, its secrets and horrors spilling out like ink from a broken quill.

Delta and Yukan, amidst this disintegration of the [Domain], stood as an island in a storm of collapsing reality. The fate of the Undercellar was sealed with Coldclaw's demise, its final chapter written in the language of destruction and the unmaking of ancient bonds. The Undercellar, once a realm of shadows and whispers, was now dissolving into the annals of history, its legacy a fading echo in the annals of time.

 

[TheTimePiece]

Yukan Koyake

Language: "Common", "<Beastial>"​

gmimperfecti Shadow Dancer Uasal
Yukan really hadn't been sure how the battle was going to turn out. All he knew was that through determination he had to continue, no matter how many times Coldclaw would try to end his life, he would have to keep fighting to the best of his ability until his dying breath. That was the only way he could ascertain that he would honor the Koyake clan and his Tanuki ancestors. In one moment she had been before him when he tried to follow up, but then she was behind him. Even with the assistance from Zephyr which had helped keep him alive so far it looked as if he was going to receive a grievous blow from the back with Coldclaw's Katana with very little time for him to react accordingly to this even as he tried his best to move in response, but then unexpected happened, the Fae seemed to quite literally place herself in front of him and the blade causing an intense reaction which shook the corrupt ground on which they stood. If only he could have reacted more quickly..was just a bit stronger that would have been avoidable. Even if there was an uncertainty Zephyr proved to be a grand ally until the end.

It was unclear to him given Zephyr's ethereal nature if she had truly been slain completely or not regeneration wasn't out of the question, nor was a reincarnated manifestation of a form like that was destroyed given what she was..truthly Yukan didn't know enough about what she was to determine all of those details. If only he had a way of healing something like this. Regardless his resolve hardened.

"Thank you Great Zephyr, I won't let your intercession be in vain. Many lives will be saved today in part thanks to your loyalty. Should you return..please let us meet again soon."

He said softly on the chance she could hear him still during this inter phasing period. He was getting ready to keep fighting Coldclaw. Yukan felt like during this fight he had been partially outclassed..perhaps it had been a bit early to try to take on a threat like Coldclaw, but the day hadn't been going as he had planned. While he spoke he held his combat stance focused on Coldclaw.

He was ready to go back in and give it everything he got. But then a new threat came on the scene and struck Coldclaw with a fatal attack very quickly. Yukan couldn't say he was expecting another human to be the one felling her, but it looked like his and Zephyr's fight had given the opportunity for what he could only assume was an assassin, not knowing that the person before him was the same one he had seen earlier at the camp.

Feeling his heart pounding after he assessed she was dead and when it didn't look like he was going to be taken out next he gave Delta a bow.

"I know not why you fell her today, but thank you whatever the reason, you have greatly aided my efforts.""

Thats when Yukan noticed the whole domain was failing,

"We should be on our way..whatever magic was holding this place together is failing now that she has left us.."

Yukan then proceeded to try to find a path out using his dark vision and extra senses. He needed to regroup with whoever was left and help guide any would be slaves back if possible, not really sure of the status above ground. Hopefully Indicus was okay..as well as some of the orcs. All Yukan could really do at that point was hope that everything would work out. He would fight his way out of there if he had to. Do his best to help save slaves if need be and possible and then presuming that went well his plan was to partake in the status report. There was also the issue of Skarn, he'd need to find out if there were any Empire war prisoners which would fit the needs of the arrangement he made If not he'd need to kill the monster himself. Since the Fae saw humans as beneath them he felt pretty confident that wouldn't be hard to procure after this.

 

[Shadow Dancer]

Indicus saw the three slavers still left and tried to figure out how quickly their group could kill them before an alarm was raised. A plan formed in his head as he found a few ways around boxes and cages to get behind each guard (Perception F). He mentioned the routes to the orcs and explained that two orcs would come with him to deal with the guards and the fastest orc would hide and keep an eye on any further activity from other areas of the camp and alert them if other guards were coming back to the slave quarters.

With the plan laid out the small group split up. Indicus took his route to a mostly alert guard that would occasionally look towards the commotion elsewhere in the camp with his skills in stealth (Undetected sound F, Stealth F) Indicus made it behind the guard and with a quick motion leaped out of the shadows he was hidden in, placed one hand over the guards mouth and with his razor sharp teeth tore out the poor guards throat.

Finished with his kill he checked the other two orcs with him and saw them kill the other two guards with daggers mostly meant as a sidearm or to do menial tasks like cut rope. But still they got the job done and now was the time to deal with the slaves. Indicus searched the now dead guard's body for keys to the cages while the orcs did the same.

gmimperfecti

 

[Uasal]

~'Delta'~

Native, Orphan, Martial Artist, Razor Wire Apprentice, Infamous (Ryke), Attentive Student, Ryken Adventurer F, Intermediate Variant, Apprentice Assassin

Reaching into her pocket Delta quickly produced a firestarter. It had originally been a part of her many trap components but right now it was a tool with which to close her contract. Leaning down to the body and severed head of the woman, Delta proceeded to set her alight.

The flames danced hungrily as they consumed Coldclaw's remains, ensuring against any chance of regeneration. Delta, satisfied with her meticulous work, turned away from the fiery pyre, her expression veiled in the shadows.

Approaching Yukan with a nod of acknowledgment, she spoke in a voice softened by the echoes of the Undercellar, "Your distraction provided me with a perfect opportunity to strike. You have my thanks." Her smile, a fleeting play of shadows, hinted at a rare moment of gratitude.

Heading to the desk where Coldclaw's presence had loomed, Delta retrieved her grimoire, a sacred repository of her experiences and arcane knowledge. The leather-bound book held the essence of her existence, a testament to the shadows she had navigated and the secrets she had unearthed.

With her work complete, she fell into step behind Yukan, her silhouette melding seamlessly with the lingering shadows. As they departed the ancient chamber, she addressed the unseen entities that had observed the dance of shadows and blood.

"Well, then shadows," she whispered, her words carrying the weight of a binding contract. "I kept my end of the bargain. I expect you to keep yours too."

The echoes of her voice lingered in the Undercellar, a silent pact made in the dance of shadows, where promises were etched in the language of the unseen.

Once the duo had made it to the surface, Delta seemed to vanish, her work was completed, and though Yukan had been instrumental to said work. She couldn't risk him figuring out her identity. So with the book in hand as proof of contract and her target felled, Delta began to make her way back to Ryke and the guild with her head held high.

 

[gmimperfecti]

As Delta and Yukan navigated their way through the disintegrating Undercellar, the very fabric of the [Domain] seemed to warp and twist around them. The labyrinthine passages and somber chambers they had traversed were now fluctuating between physical reality and an ethereal dreamscape, a place where the boundaries of existence were frayed and tenuous.

The ground beneath their feet shifted unpredictably, sometimes solid stone, other times a misty void that threatened to swallow them whole. The walls pulsated with the last vestiges of the [Domain]'s power, their ancient stones crying out as they came undone, releasing centuries of trapped whispers and screams.

In the lowest level, Delta led the way, her instincts and the shadows guiding her through this collapsing realm. Her steps were cautious yet determined, her eyes scanning the ever-changing environment for safe passage. Yukan followed closely, his senses heightened to the chaos around them. His training as a warrior and his connection to the Koyake Clan had prepared him for many trials, but this surreal unravelling of reality was unlike anything he had faced before.

As they moved, the air around them was thick with the echoes of the past – the cries of the imprisoned souls, the murmurs of ancient rituals, and the whispers of long-forgotten secrets. These echoes swirled around them, creating a haunting symphony that seemed to mourn the end of the Undercellar.

Their journey was a surreal blend of reality and illusion, each step taking them closer to escape but also deeper into the heart of the [Domain]'s mysteries. The very ground beneath them would occasionally give way to scenes of the past – glimpses of Coldclaw's rituals, the lives she had destroyed, and the dark pacts she had forged. These visions were so vivid, so intense, that they felt like living memories, pulling at Delta and Yukan with the gravity of their emotional weight.

Yet as the journey lingered, Yukan felt the lingering pull, the dregs of his luck spent. Following the pull, Yukan and Delta ended up at a pair of abandoned plush leather arm chairs. The muted rays of day light cutting through the crumbling dimensional integrity of the Undercellar. Above them, the crack that had brought Yukan reemerged. Sitting in the chairs, the crack in reality spread around them until the Undercellar receded, and they were sitting on a pair of ancient arm chairs several hundred yards away from the slave compound.

The early morning sun casting long shadows on the ground. The air was fresh and crisp, a stark contrast to the oppressive atmosphere of the Undercellar.

---

As Indicus and his orc companions methodically dispatched the remaining guards in the slave compound, a sense of urgency pervaded their actions. The camp, still reverberating with the echoes of the earlier chaos, was a hive of confusion and potential danger. The swift and silent takedown of the guards was crucial to avoid drawing any unwanted attention from other areas of the camp.

With the guards disposed of, Indicus quickly rifled through the pockets of the guard he had taken down, his fingers finally closing around a cold metal ring filled with various keys. The orcs, having done the same, moved towards the cages holding the slaves.

The moment the keys clicked in the locks and the doors swung open, a wave of emotions swept through the compound. The slaves, a mix of fear, relief, and disbelief in their eyes, hesitated at first, then slowly began to emerge from their confines. They looked around, as if waking from a nightmare, taking in the sight of their fallen captors and the strange group that had freed them.

Indicus, standing tall and imposing, addressed the newly liberated slaves. "You're free now. But we must move quickly. This camp is no longer safe." His voice, though gruff, carried an unmistakable tone of sincerity and urgency.

The orcs, though not known for their gentleness, showed a surprising amount of patience and understanding as they helped the slaves out of their cages and began to organize them for a swift departure.

As they were gathering, the ground beneath the compound began to shake, a harbinger of the tumultuous events that had unfolded beneath the surface. Shadows deepened as dawn seemed to recede back towards night! Strange dark beings emerged from the dark corners and the odor of wet blood. Then the screams started as the soldiers and perhaps soon anything living within the compound was assaulted.

The fear of being swept into the aftermath, bolstered the resolve of Indicus and his companions. It was a moment of unspoken understanding and unity among those who had fought against the darkness of the Empire to now see that darkness come back for it's due.

"We need to leave, now," One of the orcs said.

Escape the way they had come worked, and they were all able to make their way back towards the See. Together, the group of orcs, freed slaves, and the heroes who had delved into the depths of the Undercellar, began their journey away from the slave compound. Their steps were hurried but determined, each one a stride towards freedom and away from the horrors they had left behind.

Somewhere along the way Delta was no longer with them.

As the group of liberated slaves and their saviors made their way into the See and towards where the rendezvous was planned, a sudden and unexpected terror struck. The earth beneath them trembled violently, not from the remnants of the Undercellar's collapse, but from something far more primal and fearsome.

Without warning, the ground erupted as Skarn, The Earth-Tunneling Drake, burst forth in a display of raw power and ferocity. Its massive form, a daunting spectacle of muscle and scale, emerged from the earth, its eyes burning with a savage hunger. The Drake, promised its due by Yukan and not yet satiated, had come to claim its reward.

In a flash of movement, too quick for the eye to follow, Skarn lunged at the group. Its massive jaws snapped shut on two unsuspecting orcs, their cries silenced in an instant as they were pulled into the gaping maw of the beast. The slaves, already weak and disoriented from their ordeal, scattered in terror, but Skarn was relentless in its pursuit. Another slave fell victim to its hunger, snatched away by the merciless predator.

The survivors, frozen in shock and horror, watched as Skarn, having claimed its grim toll, turned its gaze upon them. For a moment, it seemed as if the Drake would continue its rampage, but then, with a deep, rumbling growl that resonated through the ground, Skarn turned and burrowed back into the earth, disappearing as quickly as it had appeared.

Yukan, who had made the promise to the Drake and his failure to deliver on his word resulting in a brutal reminder of the consequences. The loss of lives, both orc and slave, a stark testament to the unpredictable and often harsh realities of war and battle.

As Skarn's form vanished beneath the soil, the group was left to process the sudden and violent interlude. The mood was somber, the air filled with a palpable sense of loss and a renewed awareness of the dangers that lurked in their path. They gathered their resolve and continued on their journey, each step forward a silent vow to honor those who had fallen and to fight with even greater determination against the darkness that threatened to engulf them.

Sometime on their way through the thick tangle of the See's swampy forest, Thistle Brambleloot, the Halfling Scout, appeared with he remains of the scout unit to take the slaves and debrief Yukan and Indicus.

The End​

 

[Novama]

Isekai Hell Grade​

Shadow Dancer TheTimePiece Uasal gmimperfecti

crafty slaver hunting. Good thing it is under warzone rules. I'm a bit iffy about giving npc minions to characters without leadership or minions. Definitely a lot of npc's in this one. getting similar vibes to the last mass npc outing involving yukan. Just masses of npcs all over the place. Somewhat distracting. Perhaps like dynasty warriors or something, need a lot of mooks to make the violence violent. All fun and games during war. Some slaves made it out at least. Probably wouldn't have been too many though. east empire didn't really enslave fae. During war time, more likely to kill them rather than keep pets, becoming subjects of hate rather than admiration.

Aftermath:
N/A

Points

gmimperfecti - 34pts (narration bonus applied)

Delta - 88pts
optional title acquired [Ryke Assassin Guild E] - Character has shown an understanding of the craft and advanced in the guild. Still green, but getting there, if they continue living.

Yukan - 105pts
optional title acquired [Anti Slaver Commander] - Character aided in leading forces against slavers.
optional skill upgrade acquired [Warfare E] - add 7pts to earned and spent if taken.

Indicus - 66pts (narration bonus applied)
optional title acquired [Orc Buddy?!] - Character seemed to be buddy buddy with orcs to the point where they were likely to do what he said for no reason at all. Just as likely to kill him if they did not like what he said.