Graded [Arborhaven City] Rooted in the Past

[LadyOfStars]

The sentinels were tough, but not invincible and although it was taking time, Hildegard's continued attack of the same sentinel, with Kesh's assistance, managed to mangle and maim their target. her thunder claws rent large pieces of bark from the entity, sending splinters though the air. Right away the remaining sentinels prepared to launch their javelins and join the fight, but a large cry rang out from the tree, sounding like wood being twisted and crushed beneath a great weight. The ground shook slightly and the sentinels, with their weapons raised, were frozen in place. They trembled, almost like trying to move but being held in position. Several seconds of silence passed and nothing happened, then came Mira's voice. "Run for the base!" There was no guarantee that the sentinels would not attack, or whether the path ahead was safe or not, but for now they had a chance to flee the overwhelming odds.

Mira, guided by her agency and urgency, grabbed hold of Kesh and Ceylan's hands and without hesitation started to run towards the base of the tree. Once they were past the first two sentinels, she let go of them and glanced back, seeing that the enemies were still frozen like statues. She could also see Cayde and Hildegard were not far behind as the group made a mad dash for the center of the crater. They would move without further interruption, seeing no resistance once they were under the base of the tree. That was when they would catch a glimpse of the First Shrine, what remained of it anyway.

A pool surrounded what was once the First Shrine and the waters within were blue without the sky's serene influence. Small sparks lifted from the pool, dazzling and glinting in the shadow of the tree. Energy also radiated from the pool and those magically inclined would recognize the familiar hum of pure mana. Mira treaded lightly as she crossed the bridge, eyes wandering aimlessly and taking in the peculiar scene. Just across the pool of mana was a dilapidated structure with an altar at the center of it and a set of stairs to the left, located outside the building. Standing before the altar was a tall figure who held two orbs in his palms. Both spheres were of a crimson color, but one emitted a golden glow that felt warm and pure, Ceylan would recognize it as a Divine energy.

"So this is what you were up to." The figure slowly turned around, first twisting its neck to glance over its shoulder and then turning its entire body to face the outsiders. The group would recognize the voice as the one that spoke to them earlier. "Aegrizora hath delivered you all to your deaths." His hand tightened upon the glowing sphere, Squeezing it tightly. Slowly, his grip on the orb weakened and he held his hand out, materializing a large purple blade.

"I shall cleave thee from reality and lay all to rest beneath the tree." In the span of a breath, the figure dashed towards the group, swinging his blade at Mira and aiming to sever her head from her shoulders.

Spoiler: The Enemy

Elvario Skyhunter Dante Verren The Last Curse

 

[Dante Verren]

Hildegard Karling
Interaction: LadyOfStars Skyhunter Elvario The Last Curse


Satisfaction ran through Hildegard as she torn through sentinel. Her magic cause sparks and splinters to shower around her and she was certain that it's death was fast approaching. She was aware of Kesh helping, but Hildegard was going to be the one to claim the kill. That was until the ground rumbled and the sentinels froze. Had they all did, or was the tree mocking them. It mattered not for she had been denied her kill. She would have been more angry about it too, but the panic yell from Mira and watching her practically drag Kesh and Ceylan forward took away an animosity and replaced it with a tint of fear.

Hildegard ran, but not as fast as she could. Instead she pulled up the rear, staying within arms reach of the group but also last in line so that she could turn and fight at a moments notice. The real enemy however was at their front. It took her a moment to realize that the voice which had spoken to them now was the voice which had spoken through the sentinels. A rather sinister looking individual stood before them, he even named drop the tree. That made her think. If the tree had brought them here, did it want them to stop this man? Thinking would have to wait.

The man summoned forth a purple blade and rushed down Mira, the intent to kill clear as day in his expression and stance. Hildegard did not know if anyone else would be able to move quickly enough to save Mira. Even if she had known, she wouldn't have stayed still anyway. Electricity poured down the length of her blade and wrapped around her feet as she moved forward full speed ahead. A sharp growl echoed from her, a bestial warcry from the fully armored paladin. She swung her blade in an uppercut, aiming for the opponent sword in an attempt to parry the swing and knock it away just long enough for Mira to get out of harms way.

Ability Used:

• Ability: Lightning Rush: Magic Affinity E, Elemental Affinity (Lightning E), Componetless Magic F, Fast F- The user channels their magic power and combines it with there natural speed. Using the combination of physical and magical strength the user rushes and strikes out at the intended target. -Grade F- 0 Post Cool down

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Mira LadyOfStars | Kesh Skyhunter | Cayde The Last Curse | Hildegrad Dante Verren

Ceylan wondered if his words had managed to reach through. After all, whist his allies kept fighting, it didn't look like the sentinels would back down or even be beatable. If anything, it felt like they were doomed to meet the same fate as the Elder. Although Ceylan was mentally preparing for the worst, his divine fortune seemed to hold up. For some reason, the tree sentinels suddenly froze up after some loud noise. Was it the part of the tree that was still divine that gave them a chance to cure its curse? Ceylan hoped it to be so. He didn't get much time to think about it, however, as he was dragged along by Mira before he could good and well contemplate what was happening.

As he was dragged along by Mira like they were in some sort of high-school romcom, he couldn't abstain from admiring this place. Part of this place was still beautiful, as the path between the roots and the mana-water below them were nothings short of dazzling. He truly wished he could take the time to admire this place in less deadly circumstances. However, the first shrine itself had turned into something very ominous. The dark, creepy and rotten looking vies and soil made shivers run down his spine.

When they stumbled upon the figure near the throne, he immediately noticed the divine energy it was holding. However, the figure itself seemed to be far from divine. Ceylan wasn't sure what to do, but there was one thing that might work... “Kesh, do you see that gold glowing orb? I think I might be able to use it to cleanse this place. I'll give you some cash-money if you can get it for me.” He wasn't sure how much external motivation Kesh would need to help out, but that should probably be enough to get her to act. Unknowingly, he'd even adopted a bit of her odd speech patterns when trying to make a deal with her.

However, before he could figure out what to do next, the figure had finished turning around and stopped speaking, suddenly dashing towards them instead. Seeing how Ceylan had stuck near Mira after being dragged along, he was quick to try to pull her away from the incoming sword. Having her head chopped off would be a lot more difficult to heal than having her or himself wounded, so he didn't shy away from risking the sword to hit his torso if it meant he could avoid having Mira killed with it. With some luck, however, Hildegard would reach them before that happened and his action of pulling Mira away would be enough to avoid major injury altogether.

As he pulled Mira away, he tried to get a glimpse of what he was up against. Using his [Divine Appraisal at D Grade] on the opponent, on both orbs, on the throne/shrine and on the mana/water, he hoped to quickly get a firmer grasp of the situation (and on whether his reckless ideas would be more than suicide).

C Grade Cooldowns: (2/3)

• Divine Senses – Magic Affinity C, Magic Range D, Religion C, Sixth Sense D – Characters connection to the gods allows them to sense dangerous/evil magic and curses that might go unnoticed by others. - Grade C – 3 Post Cooldown.

D Grade Cooldowns: (0/2)

• Divine Appraisal – Magic Affinity D, Magic Range E, Magic Targets E, Appraisal E, Religion D – Character uses their [god]-given appraisal ability on up to 5 targets within a 30ft/9 metres range – Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.

F Grade Cooldowns: (0/0)

 

[The Last Curse]

Mentions: LadyOfStars Elvario Dante Verren Skyhunter ​

Before he could put his idea to the test, a strange sound rang out in the air, and the earth rumbled shortly after. Surprised, Cayde froze in place, and as he shifted his head to find the source of the noise, he noticed the sentinels were just as motionless. He turned to look at Ceylan and Mira, expecting an explanation, but they were already sprinting to the roots. Bewildered as he was, Cayde knew they had seen an opportunity, and so he quickly followed suit. He felt relieved, knowing he'd dodged yet another sticky situation, though the sentinel's sudden relent did make him wonder. Did Ceylan's words manage to reach them? Or did their controller stop them? And if so, for what reason? As he took one step into the Aegorizea tree, Cayde felt he would find out soon enough.

The trip inside the tree was nothing but enchanting. Still, Cayde's fingers were tight around his crossbow, though that didn't stop him from marveling at the liquid mana from time to time. He contemplated bending down and gathering a bottle of it, picturing himself studying the fluid at his camp, incorporating it into one of his potions, or creating a brand new recipe. Hell, He even imagined Kesh there, brewing all sorts of crazy Skaven potions alongside him. The thought made his grip loosen. "I'm sure they wouldn't miss a bottle or two...or four..." Cayde mumbled slyly, his hand slowly reaching his pack. Although his adventurer side was quaking with apprehension, he was glad to see his alchemist side was still there.

But before he could fish out a bottle, Cayde spotted a man further ahead, standing near what seemed to be the remains of an altar. As he and the other got closer, the man addressed them all with an ominous warning, one not unlike the sentinels before. Cayde's eyes narrowed, and his lips began to form a question, but then the man rushed the group with a blade in hand, targeting Mira specifically. Hildegard was the first to engage, and Cayde followed up soon after, aiming and firing a bolt at the man's exposed midsection.

As he loaded another bolt, Cayde noticed the two crimson orbs grasped in the man's hand. Ceylan seemed interested in them, though, for what reason, Cayde wasn't sure yet. "What're those things in his hands?!" Cayde cried out, preparing himself to aim another shot. He had a feeling where the next bolt would go, depending on the answer, but without information, he couldn't make that decision just yet.

 

[Skyhunter]

Kesh

​

As Kesh was given a concoction from Cayde, she stared at it then looked at the sentinels. " Can I drink this and be alright? " She asked with a raised eyebrow, then she decided that she was going to throw the potion at one of the sentinels, rearing her arm back while sticking her tongue out like she was concentrating on where to throw it. Suddenly the ground shifted and rumbled, causing the Ratkin to fall over onto the ground with a surprised gasp. As the rumbling happened for what seemed like minutes even though it was for seconds, Kesh was flopping around on the ground like a fish out of water, she lived underground so earthquakes and tectonic shifts were an uncommon but natural thing that occurred. It didn't bother her too much, but it was much more powerful than what she used to experience. Eventually Kesh got up after it passed, still holding the bottle that Cayde gave him, she looked at the bottle then at the sentinels, getting ready to throw it again. " For the gold-money! " She called, about to toss it when Mira grabbed her hand and began to drag her away.

Kesh allowed it to happen as she looked rather at peace with this, up until they got to a pool and Kesh looked around her, " Wow it's pretty-lovely here. " Kesh stated with a smile as she got up to her feet and began to move with Mira, when they stopped, Kesh stared at the liquid around them, " Can we sell this for gold-money? " She asked but jumped when she heard a voice call to them, moving away and back to the ground as she stood behind Cayde to see a figure reveal himself and pull out a sword. " Whoa. That's a weapon... Weapon... Weapon-armament that I can sell. " She whispered to Cayde. Moving out from behind him to watch the scene as he threatened to kill them, Kesh wasn't too interested, " Hey! " She called across from the pool, " Does that mean if we beat you, I can get your sword? " Kesh called but he was already rushing them down which caused Kesh to run back behind Ceylan, grabbing his robes as she looked from behind him, her hands patted through his pockets as she was examining for any danger but the blue knight Hildegard would come to their aid.

Of course, her ears perked at the mention of gold-money, Kesh looked at Ceylan who told her to steal the orb in his hand and get it to him and he would pay her. That was a deal that she couldn't and wouldn't resist. " I can do that! " Kesh smiled looking before them at the battling Hildegard and stranger. She looked at her ring, " I need the gold-money, so I need to Conceal-Hide Away! " Kesh called in an echo as she raised her hand as her ring glowed and just like that, Kesh was gone. Quickly, Kesh made her way around the fighting, looking for a way to get close and try to take the orb from the stranger's hands. Once there was a way, Kesh leaped onto the arm of the attacking man, grasping onto his arm trying to take the orb out of his hand, using her claws to scratch him with a growl, " I NEED THE GOLD-MONEY! " Kesh roared in desperation as she even kicked him in his face trying anything to get the orb from him. She was paid to do so; a job is a job.

• Conceal-Hide Away! - E - Magic Affinity E, Undetected F, Magic Duration F: Kesh uses her abilities to hide away from both people's sight and having the ability to suppress her sound as well. This effect lasts for 1 minute. (1 Post Cooldown)

 

[LadyOfStars]

Tanarukk
​

Tanarukk's advance was stopped, interrupted by the blond human who he could tell possessed great skill with her blade, and even some degree of magic. His own sword was deflected upward and her ally attempt to take a shot at his exposed torso. The hybrid foe quickly prepared to defend himself, but before he could, a filthy rat latched herself onto his arm and attempted to wrestle control of the orb from him. "Foul vermin." Tanarukk cursed while he ignored the stabbing, throbbing pain in his abdomen. "I shall...deal...with you...in time!' A purple aura surrounded Tanarukk's sword and he raised it into the air. "Begone!' At his command a wave of dark energy burst from his sword in a powerful shockwave. It would peel Kesh off of him and throw her to the edge of the platform, nearly dumping her into the pool of mana. That same shockwave would knock back Hildegard and Cayde, hitting them with a significantly less amount of power. Mira and Ceylan would feel the residule affect of the shockwave, a strong gust of wind that would give them a slight push backward.

"Thine choice was wise, Aegrizora, these champions are worthy of my wrath." He went to raise the while he boasted, but saw that it was missing. Right away he looked to the rat and spotted the golden glow of the orb in Kesh's caress. "Damn the gods." Tanarukk gritted his teeth and looked back to Hildegard. He knew that she would intervene if he tried to wrestle the orb from Kesh right away. She would need to die first, before anyone else. "Come! Fall upon my blade so that I may slay your friends with haste."

Tanarukk dashed towards Hildegard again, pulling out the bolt that stuck in his side as he moved. He hurled it at Cayde, infusing it with mana to give it speed and power. It was very likely to miss its target, but that would be fine. The shadow Fae swung his sword in an upward motion, attempting to cut Hildegard in two.

"Below. There are wicked servants and prisoners down below." A soft voice spoke to Kesh, whispering a warning to the rat. Mira grabbed hold of Ceylan, again, afraid of the scene that was unfolding before them. "Kesh has the orb." She whispered to Ceylan, pointing at the woman.

Elvario Skyhunter The Last Curse Dante Verren

Spoiler: For Ceylan

Tanarukk: [Shadow Fae-Demon Hybrid] , [Warlock], [Swordsman]
1st Orb: The first orb held the title [Aegrizora, God of Bounty] as well as [Soul Prison]. Ceylan would sense the divine energy within being ensnared and trapped by darker demonic energy.
2nd Orb: [Catalyst] D would be revealed
Mana Pond: The Pond would reveal no special titles, but it would read as [Catalyst] B
Throne/Shrine: The throne possessed the title [Seat of Divine, Aegrizora] and the Shrine possessed the title [First Shrine of Aegrizora]

 

[Dante Verren]

Hildegard Karling
Interactions: LadyOfStars Skyhunter Elvario The Last Curse


A quick sigh of relief escaped from Hildegard as she successfully parried the blade away from Mira. That was one ally's death that wasn't going to be on her conscious. That feeling of relief was bolstered by a string of amusement when she watched Kesh scramble onto the creature as she began her attack. She wasn't surprised that it wasn't doing much, nor was she surprised that the crossbow bolt had missed. In that brief moment that there blades had crossed Hildegard had already gained a respect for this creature's swordsmanship. She would also find out he had powerful magic when a shockwave flared out sending her scooting backwards on the ground.

His self serving talk gave her a chance to recover her footing and ready her blade again. She even managed to chuckle lightly as the creature noticed Kesh had stolen his precious orb. "Good girl" she thought to herself. She would need to reward the ratkin later somehow, if she was still alive. Such a negative thought was uncommon for Hildegard. So much so that she even surprised herself for it. She shook her head and whispered prayer. "Lord above guide my blade to strike true, guide my steps to step around, and guide my thoughts to holdfast against the fear." This was the first real battle of the sword she had in quite a while. That fact alone filled her with slight emotions of excitement and fear.

Despite his attempts at a taunt, the warrior would not respond. Hildegard did not have the time or desire. Every second of her time would be to focus on the battle in front of her. If she returned to her lord a corpse because she stopped to come up with a witty response... she would have to beg to die all over again as penitence. Seeing his rush forwards she did not hesitate. Instead she stepped forward towards the attack. As she moved she brought her own sword in a downwards swing aiming again for her opponents sword in another attempt at a parry, but that wasn't the end of it. The moment she felt metal clang on metal she would continue to move forward. Once again she let go of the sword handle with her left hand. She Swiped it forwards at her opponent, the lightning dancing across her hand like the claws of a beast ready to maul it's intended target.

Ability used:
Ability: Lightning Claw: Magic Affinity E, Elemental Affinity (Lightning E, Componentless Magic F- The user strikes at an opponent with their hand lightning forming at the tips of their nails to rake across the enemy. - Grade F- 0 Post Cooldown

 

[Skyhunter]

Kesh

​

Kesh kept on pulling on the orb, still kicking this supposed god in the face, she continued to yank on the orb that was so engrossed in his large hand, Kesh would see a bright flash and immediately released the God's hand. She blacked out for a moment but reawakened immediately when she hit the ground, she rolled across the hard floor with a pained, " oof. " As she reached the edge, the klepto Ratkin groaned as she rose back to her feet, her body in pain from the sudden shockwave that removed her from the arm of a god like she was a parasite. Kesh rubbed her face to try and recover her vision and to try and stop the constant ringing in her ears. When reality shifted back and no longer bound by the deafening ringing, she would feel something heavy in her hand as she stared at this god, looking back she would see the long fall below and her eyes widen a bit before turning back to the fight in front of her. He no longer held the orb and looked in Kesh's direction, the Ratkin looked down at whatever the heavy object she held was and saw it was the orb he was wielding! Kesh did it! She stole from a God! Kesh looked proud of herself, " I did it! I have the power of a thousand sun-stars! " She cried out, holding the orb up in the air like a prize and weapon. Then she shifted as she grew an evil smile, holding the orb towards the god like a weapon. " Get ready you fiend-demon. " Kesh then pulled the orb back and then back in front of her. But... Nothing happened.

" Wat. " Kesh stared at the orb with a blank face of confusion, she didn't know what she wanted to do with it now... Well, she could sell it or give it to the priest dog for the money he promised. Or she could throw it off the edge. But then Kesh jumped hearing a voice come to her, a warning of servants and prisoners. Kesh looked below her into the depths and shivered, " This Rat would rather not deal with gross servants. " Kesh stated looking at the orb, " What else can you tell me? Who is this strange deer headed guy in a skirt? " Kesh asked looking up at the battling man, trying to cut down Hildegard who was being braver than the rest of them and taking him head on. " Can I kill him? Or can I use you as a weapon to kill him? " Kesh asked the orb, not evening questioning its existence and how it could talk to her. Kesh knew it was better to not question some things at the wrong time. Kinda like the instance when Kesh walked in on her parents mating just to ask them how babies were made. Maybe she should have just walked away and not ask ridiculous questions and rather ask the real questions. Like why dad was tied up or mom wearing a goat's head that was made from cotton. The best and simple questions in the moment. What did this have to do with anything? Absolutely everything.

 

[The Last Curse]

Mentions: LadyOfStars Skyhunter Elvario Dante Verren ​

Thanks to the help from Kesh and Hildegard, Cayde's bolt hit right on target. Though, much to Cayde's dismay, with less of a reaction from Tanarukk, it was as if he didn't feel anything hit him. Cayde, on the other hand, would feel the wave of magic push him down shortly after, and right after that, his bolt soaring over his head. Now that made him shudder. Fortunately, Kesh running off with one of the orbs would give them an edge - how far that edge went, Cayde was still unsure. He did know one thing: the battle had quickly turned into a twisted game of keep-away, and so far, it seemed to go well. However, Cayde was aware that could change on a whim, so he needed to do something to keep Tanarukk's attention away from Kesh.

"Didn't feel that one, huh?" Cayde grumbled, getting back to his feet. His eyes passed over the demon and eventually found its legs, covered with cloth. Cayde's eyes narrowed once he spotted the outline of Tanarukk's knee. The thought of what he was going to do next made him a bit squeamish. He sighed it away and aimed a broadhead slightly under the demon's kneecap, "Well, you're gonna feel this. Trust me!" With that said, Cayde fired, utilizing [Vital Shot] to hopefully ensure it'd strike the demon's precious ligaments. Only time would tell if Tanarukk would shrug it off like the last one or stagger from the wound, but Cayde hoped it'd be enough to present an opening for Hildegard to get a well-placed strike in. Or, at the very least, turn Tanarukk's ire towards him. The last option was the most dreadful of the three, but if Cayde had to keep the others away from him, it was a risk he had to take.

Spoiler: Abilities Used

• Vital Shot - Medicine D, FIghting Style "Like a Needle" F, Perception E, Nature E, Steady Hands F - After identifying a target, Cayde fires a bolt at their vital body parts. - Grade D - 2 post cooldown

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Mira LadyOfStars | Kesh Skyhunter | Cayde The Last Curse | Hildegrad Dante Verren

Stuff was getting wild and confusing in equal measures. With Hildegard battling it out with the Warlock and Kesh actually agreeing to the job he gave her, the situation was definitely tense. That said, Ceylan was confused. Why did this creature act like it was working with Aegrizora instead of against it? Even with what he'd learned from his appraisal, he was still having to wreck his brain in an attempt to fit it altogether. There had to be some logical conclusion to all of this, somehow, just.. what was it?

He was pulled from his thoughts when Mira informed him that Kesh succeeded in getting the orb. However... the rat didn't look like she was going to give it to him. He sighed. Rat thieves... Couldn't live with them, could live without them, but not right now. Right now he really needed her to stick to their deal. He pulled out three shiny gold coins, some remnants of his earnings from his alms box after a particularly popular sermon. This really didn't feel like an appropriate time to be making such a deal, but he wasn't sure how else to lure the rat over. Clinking the coins together in his hand, he called out. “Kesh, remember the deal? Bring the orb here!”

After hopefully getting the orb in exchange for the coins, he was finally able to do what he'd been planning to. His divines senses, in combination with him hearing Kesh talk to the orb, pretty much confirmed most of what he'd pieced together. “This orb is a soul prison for the Divine. I've got to break the curse upon it somehow, please try to buy me some time!” He called out to the others, as he glossed at the mana pools below him... A very dangerous plan was starting to form.

He then looked at Mira. “I'm going to climb down to the mana pond. If I'm to even want a shot at cleansing this demonic energy, I'll need all the mana I can get.” He followed suit short after saying it, carefully yet steadily climbing down to the mana. His heart was pounding heavily in his chest, as whilst he was climbing, he'd be at his weakest. He really hoped Cayde and Hildegard (and perhaps even Kesh and Mira) would somehow be able to cover for him in the time it took him to climb down.

However, once he'd reached the surface of the mana pool, it was time to really get to work. He was carefully balancing on the roots whilst holding the orb in one hand and his own catalyst in the other, leaving him with only his tail to try make contact with the mana. It was... awkward, but it'd hopefully get the job done. He was eager to just plunge into a pool of raw mana, so for now, a careful tail dip would have to suffice. With that all out the way, it was time or the main event.

After a few deep breaths, he closed his eyes to fully focus on the task at hand, using his [Curse Cleanse] ability fully on just the orb (if it was possible to 'cleanse' it from multiple angles, he'd use the ability on it multiples times through Targets D). He had little experience in actually cleansing curses, but he was experienced in finding and analysing them. He was also experienced in healing wounds through his prayers. Surely, if he combined the two, he'd be able to heal away what curse affected this and break through, especially with his tail-access to a nearly infinite amount of mana.

B Grade Cooldowns: (0/4)

• Curse Cleanse - Magic Affinity C, Magic Range D, Magic Targets D, Sixth Sense D, Healing B, Religion C - Uses divine senses to detect curses and combines religious knowledge with healing magic to cleanse them. Works on up to 10 targets within a 100ft/30 metres range. - Grade B - 4 post Cooldown

C Grade Cooldowns: (3/3)

• Divine Senses – Magic Affinity C, Magic Range D, Religion C, Sixth Sense D – Characters connection to the gods allows them to sense dangerous/evil magic and curses that might go unnoticed by others. - Grade C – 3 Post Cooldown.

D Grade Cooldowns: (1/2)

• Divine Appraisal – Magic Affinity D, Magic Range E, Magic Targets E, Appraisal E, Religion D – Character uses their [god]-given appraisal ability on up to 5 targets within a 30ft/9 metres range – Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.

F Grade Cooldowns: (0/0)

 

[LadyOfStars]

Tanarukk grinned from ear to ear when He felt his and Hildegard's swords collide for a second time. It had been years since he even raised his sword to fight someone...and it showed. He caught Hildegard's spell with his face, the lightning surging across his pained expression and shattering his mask. Blood poured down his face and a few of his teeth rolled across the floor. Before he could even compose himself, an arrow pierced his skin again, this time landing right in his kneecap and shattering the bone. "Argh!" Blinded by blood and struggling just to stay upright, Tanarukk could not see what the non-combatants were up to. "I tire of this game!"

---

While the fighting was going on, Mira, Ceylan, and Kesh were enacting a plan of their own. Mira was nervous and even scared of what might happen to her new friend if he entered the pool, but she did not object. She knew very little about mana and magic she her fears could be totally unfounded. She watched Ceylan climb around, but was startled when she heard a new voice coming from the orb. Honestly she thought that, Kesh was just being Kesh and talking to inanimate objects, but she was wrong.

"That is Tanarukk, the fae responsible for all of this and so much chaos." The orb declared as Ceylan carried it over the pool of mana. "This orb is a my prison, I cannot defeat him while like this, but I do not think you will need my assistance." The orb said to the brave ratwoman. As they maneuvered over the mana, Ceylan would feel the energy surge into him and increase his magic potential.

Mira kept her eyes on her friend, hoping that this was safe and that they could do this without anyone getting hurt. She watched as Ceylan started to cast his spell, the pool of mana obviously reacting to his command as it began to glow and churn. She stepped back from the edge, wanting to avoid being splashed by the blue liquid. The orb started to glow a bright red with hints of gold melting into it.

---

Still down on his knee, Tanarukk wiped the blood from his eyes, only to be greeted by a barrage of luminescence coming from the orb and mana pond. "NO!" The Fae hollered at the top of his lungs, forcing himself to his feet and using his sword like a cane. He prepared another spell, but before he could cast anything, a wave of energy washed over the First Shrine, missing everyone but, Tanarukk. "Oof!' The Fae was knocked down and sent sliding across the ground to the throne he had built for himself.

"Thank you, young priest." Smooth and soothing, the voice echoed throughout the shrine and as the blinding golden light died down, the figure came into view. "Thank you all for coming here and rescuing me. I feared I would be a prisoner for all eternity." As the figure, manifested a physical form, the mana pool was slowly drained, evaporating after having been used by Ceylan to cast such a powerful spell. Small, blue stars of mana floated through the air, as Aegrizora flew over their heads to land near Tanarukk. "Your dark deed will earn you a lifetime of punishment." The deity whispered to the Fae.

"I suppose you're all wondering how this all came to pass, and I suppose an answer is the very least I can give you." His tail swept across the ground, cleansing the tainted shrine of the dark energy and corruption. "Decades ago Tanarukk arrived to Arborhaven with a group of fae like himself. They feigned despair and told my followers they were in desperate need of my help, so they were brought to here, to see me. As a group they cast that spell, pulling my soul from my body and trapping me in that orb." Aegrizora's claws squeezed Tanarukk tighter, causing the fae to groan under the pressure. "They then slaughtered my people and took their place, corrupting and misusing my image. Tanarukk then turned on his own people, seeking to take my power for himself." With a wave of his tail, a barrier formed around Tanarukk, a prison.

"My old body has become a husk, corrupt and spoiled." He raised his right arm and brushed his claw against the bottom of the tree, drawing out the last bit of divine energy within it. Right away the tree started to groan and it began to darken. Touching it once more, Aegrizora purged the dark energy from his former body.

Mira helped Ceylan down from the roots and rejoined Cayde and Hildegard as Aegrizora spoke, completely enamored by the being. "I had thought the mortal world was doomed. I only ever saw Tanarukk's wicked acolytes and their victims, but you all have given me new hope for this plane's future. Thank you." The prison that Tanarukk was now trapped in, levitated upward into the air, floating just by Aegrizora's head. "I will destroy this old body of mine, so take you leave, and let the people of Arborhaven know that the truth."

Elvario Skyhunter The Last Curse Dante Verren

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Mira LadyOfStars | Kesh Skyhunter | Cayde The Last Curse | Hildegrad Dante Verren

Truth be told, to the very end, Ceylan was in doubt if what he was doing was going to work. In fact, even slightly after it, he was still in doubt. Had he really just freed a deity from a cursed prison? Apparently... yes. As the reality of what just happened started to settle in, his tail started to slowly sway back and forth, then a bit faster, then at a pace fast enough to cause a slight draft. He'd really just freed a god by draining an entire pool worth of mana into a spell. He'd just... done that!

“You, eh, you're welcome.” The normally very preachy priest was caught with a lack of better words upon standing in front of an actual divine being. It still hadn't fully settled in what happened. Perhaps the mana surge had also given him a bit of an adrenaline and dopamine rush, as the last time he felt this happy was when Cayde had spreading the Blue Dream spores. The explanation of what happened surely put some pieces into place as well, which added to his feelings of relief and happiness.

However, when Aegrizora started to mention his old body having become corrupt, Ceylan was slightly starting to worry. Perhaps due to the very large spell he just cast, he wasn't able to follow along with Aegrizora. “Does this mean the tree will wither and vanish? If so, I beg of you, please give us some time to evacuate everyone living near it.” It'd be pretty catastrophic if the tree would wither away, as all the buildings would crash and crumble with people still inside of them. He knew they hadn't exactly been good to the deity, allowing it to get curses like it did, but that didn't mean they deserved to die like that. Besides, many of them probably wouldn't even know what was going on. He really hoped the deity was merciful enough to allow for everyone to get out safely, or that he was mistaken in thinking that the entire tree was Aegrizora's 'corrupted' body and not just the imprisoned Tanarukk.

There was another thing that dampened the relief he felt, a lingering concern. “Forgive me if it is insolent of me to ask, but there were many brainwashed people among the priests working for Tanarukk, including the sister of this girl that helped us.” He nodded towards Mira. “Do you know what became of them. If they are still alive, could you tell me where they are? I'd like to do whatever I can to assure their minds will be free again and that they'll be able to recover. Especially Mira's sister.”

As happy as he was to have been able to free the deity and get rid of the corruption, the realisation that not everything had come to a closure yet was starting to sink in. Besides, would the people in the city even realise what had happened here, or were the Elders and government still fighting it out? Would they even believe them if they said was had occurred here? They'd eventually learn of Tanarukk's passing, but what was to say that someone else simple wouldn't take their place? No... if Aegrizora's body was going to be destroyed, the latter would be impossible. Even so, the chaos that could arise was barely better than the revolt that had been on the verge of occurring....

He shook his head. There was one thing he should first, as he turned to the others. “Thank you all for aiding me in this. I couldn't have done it without all of you.” Without Hildegard's combative skills, Cayde's ingenuity and Kesh's thievery and Mira's prior research, this wouldn't have ended nearly as smoothly as it did. Even if the next 'phase' was still filled with some concerns, their teamwork had definitely altered the future of this city for the better, as a full control of Tanarukk would've been dramatic.

 

[Dante Verren]

Hildegard Karling
Interactions: LadyOfStars Elvario The Last Curse Skyhunter


A smile equal in scale to Tanarukk's mirrored onto Hildegard's face. It was obvious that the clashing of swords gave her just as much joy as it did for the Fae. The difference lay in their active skill. It became clear to Hildegard that while powerful, this old creature had not actually been in a fight in quite a while. Meanwhile fighting was a weekly activity for her. If not daily sometimes. That and her fighting style of sword combined with vicious magic generally had the affect of throwing her enemies off for the first few bouts. It seemed like the first few bouts was all she would need and she broke the Fae's mask and watched him drop to his wound knees tahnks to the good aim of Cayde.

Just like that the fight was over. Feeling almost disappointed in how short it was, she stepped forward with sword raised. The smile now gone, she gave the fae a final nod has he readied to cast a spell. Magic erupted from the side and she caught a sight so beautiful even her own breath caught. The rebirth of a god. A wave of magic blasted away Tanuarrak sending him flying to the ground. A heavenly dragon landed over the Fae and Hildegard was transfixed on it. She watched in stunned silence almost lie a child looking upon a titan. What ever words Aegrizora spoke went in one ear and out the other.

It wasn't until she heard the voice of Ceylan reached her ears that she had returned to reality. She was now fully aware that she had been staring if not gawking at the dragon, her sword loosely held at her side with a grip so loose she could have dropped the blade at any moment. She quickly shook her head to snap herself fully back to the present. How long had it been since she had seen a true deity, how many years had it ben since she had seen her lord? Willing her mind away from those thoughts she turned to face Ceylan. "Do not thank us yet. It seems the mission isn't completed until we save the town." She said in a definitive voice. Then in a slightly softer tone she added, "If you do not mind Ceylan, in payment for your gratitude I think their is a few questions I would like to ask. Once everything is over of course." She spoke the last part a little more quickly. Making sure that the group knew where her priorities were at.

 

[The Last Curse]

Mentions: Skyhunter Dante Verren Elvario LadyOfStars ​

A grimace formed on Cayde's face as he watched Tanarukk reel from Hildegard's assault and, shortly after, the bolt lodging in his knee. As the fae faltered, an expression of smug assuredness started to form on Cayde's face. He didn't know where that sudden burst of confidence came from. Perhaps it was from knowing he contributed to the battle, or maybe from putting the evil omen-spewing fae in its place. Whatever it was, it made him feel great. "Oh, and I'm not finished there," Cayde thought, loading another bolt and taking aim at the fae's other knee. He expected the same series of events as before and that untouchable feeling surging through him again. He did not expect to be blinded by a golden light.

Instinctively, Cayde went to cover his eyes, but what he saw when the light faded immediately humbled him. Before Cayde stood not only a dragon, but the manifestation of a god. His eyes transfixed on the divine creature, arms falling feebly to his sides, and his knees buckling as if it were himself he'd shot, Cayde couldn't even begin to comprehend Aegrizora's true form. So this was it; this was how it felt to be in the radiance of a divine being. Never had he felt so curious, so warm, so terrified, so insignificant, and so utterly amazed all at once! A small part of him reveled in the new sensation. An even smaller part loathed every second of it.

However, he wouldn't have to stay so mystified for long as Aegrizora prepared to leave. The major concerns had already been addressed, though Cayde couldn't shake the feeling as if he were missing something; there was another reason they came down here. Soon enough, the thought popped into his head. "W-Wait, what about those missing people?" He asked Aegrizora, his voice barely a whisper, "We thought they were sent to be sacrificed to yo- I mean, sent to be sacrificed for the ritual trapping you." This time, he turned to address the group as a whole, "If they're still down here, we can bring them back to the city, yeah?" Even in his bewildered state, Cayde still wanted to ensure they covered everything. Plus, if they left with the church's hostages, that'd hopefully quell some of the chaos up above.

 

[Skyhunter]

Kesh

​

As Kesh spoke with the orb, she ignored the yelling and sounds of battle around her, just listening in on the information that the orb gave her. Evening giving the strange being before them a name, " Tanarukk? " She echoed the orb, " He sounds like his parents didn't love him enough. " The Rat woman spoke looking at the attacking God, " Aye! Your parents didn't love-adore you enough! " She yelled across the room, it wasn't even sure if Kesh was heard with all the battling going on, then she looked at the orb, giving it a gentle high five, " Good job, orby. " Kesh flicked her tail deciding what to do next, as she spoke about being in a prison, Kesh wondered how they could get a key... Or if there was even a key... Well Kesh obviously wasn't smart enough for this, but she knew that Ceylan and Mira were, Kesh saw the priest and woman once looking up, Kesh decided she would give them the orb as she knew she, herself, Kesh, was not smart enough. But she was smart enough to know what gold-money was and that Ceylan would give her the pieces that was promised, otherwise she would not give Ceylan the orb. Making her way back over, being sure to stay away from Hildegard and Tanarukk, with their intense battle, Kesh made it to the two. Being sure to be dramatic about it.

Kesh fell on the ground and crawled to them, rolling across the ground then jumping to her feet holding the orb out to Ceylan, but quickly pulled it away, " It speaks, be sure to be nice to it. " Kesh then placed the orb in Ceylan's hands, taking the gold he had for Kesh. Kesh then stared at the two pieces with wide eyes then showing Mira, " Look... " She then pocketed it looking at Ceylan use the orb. But then released from the orb was! Was... Was, uh, some strange looking bird. Kesh stared at the thing as she stood next to Mira, " What in twenty hells is that? " Kesh asked out loud, her hand swiftly moved over to Mira, her hand moving in her pocket trying to find something to take. But when she came up empty, Kesh pulled her hand out and stopped.

 

[LadyOfStars]

Aegrizora listened to the mortals, happy and overjoyed to be speaking to someone in a pleasant manner about something pleasant. It reminded him of the old days. And just as heroes should be, they were worried about other even after having doing what they set out to do. "Fret not, the people you seek are still here, under the shrine." He explained. "They were not brainwashed however. Tanarukk's acolytes were all willing servants, but you are right about his victims." Aegrizora looked to Cayde as he was the one who brought up sacrifices and dark magic. "Tanarukk killed those who his cult kidnapped and those who would not bend to his will. Some were used to power my prison while the magically inclined were...drained of their mana. Some acolytes and some prisoners yet live in the dungeon below the shrine." When he said that, Mira did not hesitate to rush to the staircase and descend into the dungeon.

Suddenly, Aegrizora levitated up off of the floor. "As the tree is no longer a host for my soul, I will destroy it, but it I will give you all time to evacuate those beneath the shrine first and I will evacuate those who live upon the tree." The deity floated closer to the group, enveloping them briefly in his golden aura. "I cannot thank you young ones enough for this great deed you have done for me and for my followers. I am now free to resume my divine duties and although i will be on another plane, I will always be listening." With a wave of his hand, Aegrizora fashioned four medallions in the shape of his tree. "Should you ever have need of my wisdom...call out to me and I will answer you, but only once." The necklaces floated over to the group and Aegrizora retreated back from them. With a bow of his head, the deity grabbed hold of Tanarukk's prison and the two flew out from under the tree.

The dragon soared upward into the air, leaving a trail of verdant green leaves and mana sparks in his wake. he set to the task of emptying the buildings on the tree and moving the people to the city. Under the shrine, Mira found that the acolytes were all asleep, heavily so in fact. "Did Aegrizora?" She wondered as she was able to walk right by the once threatening cultists. She found on one person, a key ring and swiftly snatched it. "Julia?!" She cried out as she started to unlock cages in a hurried fashion. Right away people started to cry, overwhelmed with joy at receiving their freedom and being rescued. "Have you seen my sister?!" Mira asked as she watched people exit the cages, but none of them were he sibling. Finally an old woman approached Mira with tears of sorrow streaking down her cheek. "Mira..." The old woman spoke softly. "Julia...she didn't....they took her and she never came back down. They found out she had magic." That was not what Mira had expected and her heart fell into her stomach, her ears blocking out all noise. Her sister was dead?

The prisoners would slowly climb the stairs, weak from many missed meals and mistreatment. Mira and the elderly woman would be the last to exit. "The...the acolytes are unconscious." Mira announced in a defeated tone as she rejoined the group. "My sister...she...she died." Mira bowed her head to the group, stifling her tears. "Thank you all for helping me get here and learn the truth, as well as helping me to finish what my sister and I started." She raised her head back up, bottom lip shaking as he fought the tears. "Ceylan, I...don't have many skills but...I would like to accompany you if you'll have me, for as long as you'll have me. There is nothing left for me here in Arborhaven."

With the people evacuated from the prison and the buildings above the shrine, the tree gave a mighty groan as if it's trunk was being twisted or crushed. Their time there was running out.

Elvario Skyhunter The Last Curse Dante Verren

 

[Elvario]

Ceylan
​

Mentions: Mira LadyOfStars | Kesh Skyhunter | Cayde The Last Curse | Hildegrad Dante Verren

A slight smile went across Ceylan's face when he learned that Hildegrad was as devoted to seeing this through until the end as he was. “You're right.” He said, but the second part of what she said took him off-guard. What in the world did she want to know badly enough to announce it in such a manner? That said, if answering questions was all she wanted, it was a very small price to pay. “I'll answer them to the best of my extend.”

It also looked like Ceylan wasn't the only one who had the victims on his mind, as Cayde asked about them as well. It was good to learn that his companion had similar ideals and concerns, especially with regards to things as crucial as this. It once again confirmed that his dubious and shady looks were nothing like the hero he was on the inside, which Ceylan hoped was also clear to the others by now.

Kesh, on the other hand... Whilst it was clear that the rat wasn't nefarious in any manner, her fingers were very sticky. Between the dramatic acts and the continuous attempts to run through pockets, she was still managing to be oddly reliable in her own rat-like way, as she did deliver him the orb. He was a bit caught of guard when she'd even told him to be nice to it, but, well, freeing the deity should count as being nice to it, so Kesh hadn't had anything to worry about on that regard.

He understood the desire for Mira to rush off very well, as she learned the fate that might have befallen her sister. However, at the mention of draining mana, Ceylan could feel shiver run down his spine... That mana pool he'd just used... had he just cast magic by using the forced out mana of unfortunate victims? It was a very uncomfortable thought.

That said, he was glad that they'd be given time to evacuate. In fact, it was even better, the deity itself would help that process. “You have my deepest gratitude.” Ceylan said, knowing full well how easy it would be for the deity to just destroy everything that had ended up making him suffer in the magic prison for so long. The fact that Aegrizora abstained from such a thing told Ceylan he was indeed a good deity, one worthy of worship by the Syncretist Church. By now, he'd almost forgotten that figuring that out had been his original goal in coming here.

Ceylan accepted the medallion with a fascination as strong as Kesh fascination for that gold-money. Being handed something like this, directly from a divine being, was something that nearly left him speechless. He held it firmly in his hand. “I am deeply honoured, thank you.” He looked at the deity flying off with a mixture of respect and fascination. However, he was snapped back to reality only a few moments later. They still had people to save.

Making his way towards Mira in a hurry, witnessing Mira opening doors. It took him a while to fully grasp the situation, but once he did, he quickly took control of things. First, he looked at Mira. “Don't give up hope just yet. It's a small chance, but there is one. Just... please try to be strong for now and help out. I'll do what I can...” Well, he wasn't as clear as he wished to be, but hopefully, that'd get some things across. It was difficult to really focus, until he realised he shouldn't have to do so.

He turned to Hildegard. If anyone was able to stay calm and be authoritative, it'd be her. “Could you please gather up anyone that's too injured to walk, so that I can heal them, and ask those that are still fine to help those that are not?” He knew she'd be able to command that with a type of authority he wouldn't be able to display. Once everyone was gathered, he'd use [Divine Healing C] to heal the 10 most wounded/injured looking people.

However, there was one more thing that needed to be done. He wasn't sure how to bring it... “We should bring the deceased as well, to give them a proper burial.” The latter was a lie, as he wished to try something else. However, the chance of it working was very slim, so he didn't wish to say so openly.

He looked at Cayde in particular, the one he trusted the most and whom he thought would help him without questioning any ulterior motives he had. He whispered at Cayde, clearly not wishing to state this part publicly. “We should look for the body of Mira's sister as well. If it's true that she was drained of her mana, her body should still be in tact. It's a big stretch, but there might be something I can do. I just don't want give any false hope, so we need to make it sound like we're just planning to give them a proper burial for now.”

With everyone, including the diseased, hopefully being evacuated, Ceylan asked them to be brought into one of the churches. He was glad he was a priest, as he could use the excuse of wishing to perform some rites of passage in private. He even used the excuse of wishing to make sure that none of Tanarukk's curse remained on the spirits of the diseased. However, the truth was far more dubious. He was going to try 'healing' them. He'd never tested the limits of his abilities to this degree, but after having somehow saved a deity, he felt more confident than ever before. Besides, those who's bodies had been drained of mana would be in 'pristine' condition, so if there ever was a chance to do this, it'd be now.

He'd allow Cayde and Hildegard to be there with him, if they so desired, but he'd told Mira that he needed as few people there as possible and asked her to keep people out of the building for now. His excuse was that he needed the rites to proceed with the proper silence and respect. He'd also try to make it very clear to Kesh that he'd just be doing boring stuff without anything of worth, as he was too afraid she'd try to still his candles and incense and ruin the ritual otherwise. That said, he'd made sure to beg Mira with puppy eyes to do whatever she could to ensure Kesh wouldn't interfere as well, as he really worried the rat would do her usual rat antics and ruin this.

Having gathered the remains of the victims, hopefully including Mira's sister, he had set up his candles and incense. He'd read through the passages of the sacred texts of multiple deities. (He would've also waited out the CD, OOC). The final words were escaping his lips, as he braced himself for the biggest healing attempt of his life. “For those who's time has come too soon. For those who's passage is not yet warranted. I beg all of the pantheon to withhold their judgement and grant them back their time on earth.” With complete focus, he channelled every drop of healing magic he could muster, using [Divine Healing B] upon up to 10 remains. (B - Reinvigorate, cure any disease/ailment/curse/poison, raise the dead if they have been dead no more than 10 days.) He really hoped he was strong enough, that he was in time, that the bodies were intact enough for this to work... There were many things that could go wrong, but he felt like he needed to try this.

B Grade Cooldowns: (1/4) – (Time skip IC?)

• Divine Healing - Magic Affinity C, Magic Range D, Magic Targets D, Healing B, Religion C - Character channels the powers of the gods to heal significant injuries for up to 10 targets within a 100ft/30 metres range. - Grade B - 4 Post Cooldown.

C Grade Cooldowns (0/3)

• Divine Healing - Magic Affinity C, Magic Range D, Magic Targets D, Healing C, Religion C - Character channels the powers of the gods to heal significant injuries for up to 10 targets within a 100ft/30 metres range. - Grade C - 3 Post Cooldown.

 

[Dante Verren]

Hildegard Karling
Interactions: LadyOfStars The Last Curse Elvario Skyhunter


Hildegard watched the divine being carefully, observing every movement. It took every ounce of her willpower not to be thrown into a trance by the holy dragon's beauty. She was aware she still held her sworn in her right hand. The only reason that she hadn't sheathed it yet was a small fear in the back of her mind that if she moved wrong then this moment would be ruined. That fear did not stop her from moving when Aegreizora handed out his pendants.

As the tree shaped icon's floated out to them, her sword hit the ground with a clatter as she gently reached out with both hands to grasp the pendant. Gently she placed it around her neck and looked up to see the mighty being take his leave. She then knelt took up the sword, and still on her knees placed the tip of the blade on the ground so the sword was standing up. Slowly she leaned her head forward so that the tip of the pommel rested on her forehead and in a quiet voice barely above a whisper she began to pray. "Gracious lord who granted me life, I have seen a being with the body of a divine and a soul of pure gold to match. Grant me your wisdom to make the right choice, and your forgiveness for my doubt. For long I have followed the path aid out to me on our first meeting and my heart holds true the words you spoke, but now I see a bend in the road. It seems my path has come to divert form purely your holy word. I swear to continue your righteous quest and change this world one way or the other, even if it's under the banner of more then one god."

Hildegard stood up and sheathed her sword. Turning she saw that Mira had disappeared, likely to find her sister. Kesh was doing Kesh things, and the kind hearted Ceylan and sketchy looking yet heroic Cayde were whispering about something. She was not sure what exactly it was that was going on, but she accepted Ceylan's offer to try and perform a miracle. It was during that attempt at a miracle that it felt appropriate to make amends for her previously actions to Cayde. Finding him she would give him a nod and then a half bow. "I'm sorry for my initial hostility. You did not deserve it. You are a good crossbowman, a good alchemist, and a good person. I'm sorry, and thank you for having my back during the duel." After saying her piece she would turn away from him and go back to watching the ritual. Cleary hinting that the conversation in her mind was over. Her thoughts began to drift on what she would do next. Her first step was to learn more about the gods, other gods from her own. She figured Syncretism was a good start. After that... well only the gods knew.

 

[Skyhunter]

Kesh

​

Kesh stared at Aegrizora as she began to pronounce that this place would crumble, the Ratkin looked around her and sighed, she was sure there was stuff she could steal-take. What a disappointment-shame. Although, it was worth it when Kesh was presented with a medallion that would summon the god, Kesh's eyes lit up and even extended holding it in her hands with a large smile, " Oh by Skitterer! " She looked up to the ceiling, " I can't wait to sell it! " She cried out in an echo until she realized that most likely everyone heard her, she looked around at her companions and coughed, " I, uh, meant keep-stash it. " Kesh then gave a nervous chuckle just as she threw it on around her neck. Of course, she would do this later... Or lose it either way. Kesh then moved through the crowd of people to reach Mira who was just given news of her sister being gone. Kesh actually felt sympathy for this woman, Kesh had a sister too. One doing far better than Kesh was, a bodyguard for Ratkin Royalty which was a very highly respectable choice. It took vigorous training to achieve and the self-banning of drugs to actually enter. And such narcotics were a very important thing in her culture. Kesh, despite their differences and choices, very much loved her sister, Kesh herself knew she would be devastated of such news if they reached her. Kesh tapped Mira's shoulder to garner her attention, Kesh looked a bit confused or uncomfortable or perhaps a mix of both. " Uh, Mira. I heard-listened to your terrible-bad news. I am sorry to hear. I too have a sister-sibling and know I would be in ruins if such news reached my rat ears. " Kesh's hands were fidgeting together like this was the first time Kesh ever spoke from her heart. Kesh then quickly hugged Mira, making sure to keep her hands away from Mira's pockets, she also stunk of burnt trash and old water. Don't ask.

Slowly Kesh pulled away from the saddened and devastated woman, " I do not know what to really say as I am not really one for Gods but... " Kesh rubbed her hand through her dirty hair like a way to calm herself, " I hope she is resting well and she is most likely watching over you, Mira. " Kesh stated with an attempt at a smile, despite it being an ugly one, Kesh was trying her best to not be selfish or her usual weird self, in a strange act of kindness. " Here, I have some, uh... Drugs to help. " Kesh pulled out a wet cloth in a wrapped form from her pocket and handed it to Mira, " It is called, Flattened Bread. It will help with sleep and give you a very good high, it's harmless to humans (hopefully) and will help the pain pass. And it's not addictive. Mainly because I stole it before I left home. " Kesh patted her head as the strange cloth was in Mira's hands. If opened it would look like a brown piece of bread that resembled a bowl of some kind, despite being smashed, and within was a weird blue liquid like a crystal. " Just eat it whole later on. " Kesh instructed before then moved on Ceylan taking his hands into his looking around them before letting them go and stating, " I have no questions. " Kesh had a blank face before she pulled out another cloth and gave it to Ceylan, " Okay I do but we don't have enough time for me to ask them so instead... Look! More drugs! " Kesh smiled as she slipped on by Ceylan, a hand touching his pocket to see if he had anything, and she then met Hildegard. " The Scary Blue. I won't go through your pockets, nor do I have drugs. But thanks for saving me from that weird ugly parentless guy. And hopefully I was of help too. Okaybye. " Kesh quickly scurried away, showing a bit of fear of Hildegard, as she moved to Cayde and jumped onto his back. " Haha! Your apprentice is back! " Kesh smiled, good thing she was very light. " Now teach me about alchemy since you're stuck with me now. " Kesh said happily as she then deepened her voice. " Say my name... You're goddamn right... "

 

[The Last Curse]

Mentions: Skyhunter LadyOfStars Dante Verren Elvario ​

And just like that, it was over. With Aegoriza's departure, he took that divine radiance alongside him, replacing Cayde's awe with guilt from the dragon's heavy words. Though he'd helped stop the church and aided in liberating Aegoriza, he still couldn't rescue those innocent people or, even more dishearteningly, Mira's sister. Mira had risked so much to see the group succeed, and he couldn't even bring her the joy of reuniting with her sister. The thought stabbed at his heart. Even now, as his hands still trembled upon holding Aegoriaza's token, Cayde couldn't bring himself to study it. Perhaps later, when he was in a more curious mood again.

He placed the medallion in a pocket inside his jacket, keeping it strictly out of Kesh-ing range. Better safe than sorry, Cayde thought, having no doubt her kleptomania would also extend here. As he did so, he would overhear Ceylan's plans to gather the wounded and prepare the dead for a proper burial. Cayde expected as much; Ceylan was always one to see everything through, rites and all. However, he did not expect Ceylan to whisper another plan in his ear. Cayde listened closely, and as he began to understand what Ceylan was suggesting, his eyes widened under his mask. Had his friend's magic progressed so far that it could bring back the dead? Cayde had all the faith it could.

Before he could come to watch Ceylan's plan, Cayde had to look for one more person: Kesh. Initially, he'd thought of the woman as just a petty thief, but Kesh had proven she had the heart of a hero and, surprisingly, the nature of an alchemist. The search for her wouldn't take long, the ratkin leaping on his back, nearly toppling him over. Though startled by the sudden gesture, a warm smile crept unto Cayde's face, "Apprentice?!" Cayde replied in mock disbelief, "Well, I might not be a good teacher, but I can think of things to start with..." He chuckled, honored that he would be the catalyst to grow her interest, "Just try to keep your head screwed on straight - and your hands out my pockets. We're heading to Ryken next. I got someone you'd might like to meet."

Leaving Arborhaven would have to wait. Cayde still had to come to witness Ceylan's ritual, and so he did, but not before dropping off Kesh nearby. Hildegard was there, spectating the ceremony too, though she had surprised Cayde with genuine regret for her assumptions. Admittedly, Cayde wasn't expecting anything more than just a farewell or maybe a thank-you; a full-blown apology was more than enough. Likewise, he returned her sentiment with a deep bow of his head. In his head, he thanked Hildegard for everything, especially the courage she displayed along the way. Without her initiative, none of this would've been possible, so Cayde was deeply grateful.

With everything done, Cayde finally returned his gaze to the ritual. As Ceylan's prayers filled his ears, Cayde's mind wandered, partially to what he'd teach Kesh along the way to Ryken, partly when or where he'd see either Hildegard or Ceylan next, and partially on that strange feeling back at the tree. Cayde still couldn't describe it, but he didn't need to, nor did he want to. Unlike everything else he'd experienced during this adventure, he'd save that thought for later.

 

[LadyOfStars]

Aftermath​

The groups liberation of the deity was hard fought and although not everything had gone to plan, they did achieve a great outcome. The tree and the shrine were emptied and although Cey;an's magic would not work to resurrect the too long dead corpses, he could rest easy knowing that he had still achieved something incredible. True to his word, Aegrizora waited for the tree to be cleared of people and once it was, everyone would feel the ground tremble. The tree's roots would recede, retreating back to the body of the tree and a golden light would shine just above the canopy. Aegrizora uprooted to his former body and as if it were being sucked into a blackhole, the tree spiraled out of existence. disappearing with a powerful shockwave being sent through the air. With the entire town's attention captivated and all the fighting put on pause as the dragon ascended into the sky, slowly disappearing into golden dust with his prisoner.

With the defeat of Tanarukk, the acolyte's all surrendered to the authorities, along with their confessions and the report given by the adventurers present for the endeavor, the government had no choice but to believe that there was in fact a deity and that an evil figure was behind all their trouble. The acolytes were all arrested and the adventurers were paid for their services to the city. Churches that once belonged to the cult were closed and plans were being drawn up to convert them into proper shrines for the god Aegrizora. The city's lockdown did not end right away however. A census was used to record and track people in the city, ensuring that victims of the cult's trafficking were located and given assistance to return to their homes. With disappearance of their ancient tree, there is talk of the city expanding as well as talk of them welcoming the Sincretist Church.

(Thank you guys so much for sticking this one out! I know it went on for a few pages, but I really enjoyed reading your posts and getting to see your characters interact.)

Possible Rewards: Everyone will receive the [Hero of Aegrizora Title] and Ceylan will have the option to acquire Mira as an asset.

Elvario Skyhunter The Last Curse Dante Verren

 

[Skyhunter]

Isekai Hell RP Grade​

ALRIGHT! So Rooted in the Past was a very entertaining rp to read back through and even participate in. There were many great interactions, great rises in the stories and great character motivations. I felt like the pacing was pretty consistent, Mira's goals felt realistic, the insanity of the cultlike religion here was also great too. I felt like this rp was a great one, definitely one of my favorites. The ending? Oh man, that was great, there was a lot that happened there, the sentinels, Tanarukk, and Aegrizora. Although I felt like the ending was a bit quick with the defeat of Tanarukk, despite that, it was still pretty great. Good job y'all! I hope to have more rp interactions with Kesh with everyone here! Now reap your rewards

LadyOfStars (GM) - 31 Points - goes to any character of your choice

Ceylan - 61 Points - [Hero of Aegrizora Title] Your actions and choices have made you above most within the city, you will be recognized as a Hero of this Religion heavy city.

Ceylan - [Optional Asset] Mira

Hildegard - 61 Points - [Hero of Aegrizora Title] Your actions and choices have made you above most within the city, you will be recognized as a Hero of this Religion heavy city.

Cayde - 61 Points - [Hero of Aegrizora Title] Your actions and choices have made you above most within the city, you will be recognized as a Hero of this Religion heavy city.

Kesh - 61 Points - [Hero of Aegrizora Title] Your actions and choices have made you above most within the city, you will be recognized as a Hero of this Religion heavy city.