Graded [Ryken City] - The Birds and The Horned Rabbits

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo
OOC: Remember you are only allowed 3 actions per post during combat and moving is one all by itself. Matt didn't have the action economy to try killing as many rabbits as he tried to take down.
Time: 12:41pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky
Cooldown: E grade ability 1/1
TLDR: Michael down. Xach is launched. Rabbits are attacking tank and Xach. Matt has boss rabbits attention.
Post Listening:

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

Between sudden tank, Regula, and Matt's efforts, the party was able to bring down another 4 rabbits. Their numbers were reducing quickly, but the rabbit in the back leisurely lumbered forward while his minions went after anything that moved. The party was still outnumbered and in a particularly dangerous spot with the sponsoring adventurer out of sight but presumably very wounded.

Xach was unable to avoid the onslaught of rabbits by himself and he was doubly unable to avoid Michael who was moving faster than him in that movement. Xach was sent flying 12ft and just out of reach of the impaling rain that presumably staked Michael to the ground. Xach was now right next to several of the rabbits looking for the next thing to impale. Michael's attack had injured him, but not as much as if the Rabbits has been allowed their way.

The rabbits had 2 likely targets between the tank and Xach. Their crazed eyes barely registered Matt as a threat. 5 launched themselves at Xach and 5 launched themselves at the tank now on the scene. The horns had the force to pierce armor. Xach would note the bloody lump that was Michael under a handful of the rabbits, their fur and horns damp and glistening red in the sun. (take defensive actions or suffer worse consequences).

Meanwhile, the large rabbit remained lurking in the background. Leering at the party and encouraging its smaller rabbits to continue their deeds. Occasionally, it would shout and call out in a beastial noise, prompting the rabbits to react in some way. Matt felt he had gained the attention of this particular rabbit however. It seemed to keep looking his way more often than not. He was not far behind Xack and the tank neither, so his position would soon be overran if either tried to flee or if they fell, leaving Matt as the next menu item.

Spoiler: Horned Rabbit

 

[Elvario]

Regula
​

Mentions: Michael Novama | Xack Goran Glacial | Matt NeramoDJI | Pierre Beetlebuggo

Regula clicked her tongue as Matt started to panic. Luring them away wouldn't save Michael as much as endanger the others as well. “Don't be rash, just thin them out as much as you can as quickly as you can!” She yelled out, a tad bit annoyed at his attempt to play the hero.

For what it was worth, the rabbits were reducing in number. Even better was the fact that the big rabbit in the back seemed to prefer taking its time and seeing its underlings work over getting itself involved. There were two ways Regula figured she could go about it. If she took out the underlings first, they wouldn't have to take on the big one and the smaller ones at the same time...

However, if they could kill the bigger one, the smaller ones might scatter. She'd love to ask Michael for some advise, but the latter was a little too kebab'ed at the moment. In the end, she figured their proximity to the nest was likely going to cause the smaller ones to keep fighting even if the big one did get killed, red eye-causing or not. That was, until she spotted it was seemingly giving the smaller ones some sort of commands or orders. That changed her mind about trying to go after the big one first. It was still a huge gamble, but without any knowledge or anyone to ask, a gamble was the best she had.

Besides, with five rabbits going after the odd metal monster (Pierre) and five of them going after Xack, their melee combatants would be overrun in no-time, which would leave her and Matt in trouble. She sighed. “Matt, lets go for the big one, it seems to be commanding the rest!”

Hoping she wouldn't regret it and expecting to get the smaller rabbits to be sent after her or drawing the attention of the big one as a result, she shot an E grade [Combustion Shot] at the big rabbit, aiming right between its eyes. With her most powerful shot hopefully catching it unaware, she fired again in the hope that her F grade [Combustion Shot] would reach its head again before it could fully comprehend who and what was targeting it.

• Grade E Ability Cooldown: 1 Post Cooldown (CD 0/1)
• Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity E, Combustion Affinity E, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade E – 1 Post Cooldown.
• Grade F Ability Cooldown: 0 Post Coldown (CD 0/0)
• Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity F, Combustion Affinity F, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown.

 

[Goran Glacial]

Xack cussed some more as he flew through the air landing right smack dab in the middle of trouble again, as xack shifted his bones cracking various joints that were in pain from the blow Xack stood up and locked eyes with the five rabbits eyeing him like a big ol' steak. "Goddamn it... why... why do I keep winding up in trouble..." Xack sighed clearly upset that even his second adventure was a flop, looking towards the tank which appeared from nowhere Xack scratched his head and decided it was better he didn't comment on something like that. Gripping his sword tight Xack decided to forgo defense first and used his sword once, xack performed his dimensional stab before deciding on a insane ideas that may or may not get him killed. Shouting loud enough so the others could hear "Im gonna try and clear the rabbits off of Michael and then keep going I'll circle back around once I break free from my troubles." After saying so Xack started rushing for the far side of the clearing over the top of Michael using his body and superstrength to tackle off any rabbits that were pinning Michael down on the way.

 

[RavenSong]

Aria

When Aria returned from the woods, she felt accomplished although the meeting with the Count probably didn’t go as planned she was happy to have been called upon whilst encountering some promising acquaintances. Unfortunately she hadn’t had a reason fitting enough for trying out her newly crafted sword. She wandered about through Ryke, the buzzing and sometimes disorienting city was starting to depress the young warrior who had until now been used to her small village. Nights were sleepless, and conversations superficial and brief. Not exactly what she was used to and not wanting to return to Highgrove, she set out towards the outskirts of Ryken: the plains.

It was a long carriage ride to the nearby villages and towns. She had hitchhiked through most of the journey. Bumming rides from merchants on supply routes. Aria would set out looking for work, although she didn’t consider it work to her it was more like solidarity. She wanted to help the small town folk. Before long, news about the horned rabbit infestation reached her ears as she helped load sacks of wheat onto a carriage. Sweat beading on her brow, she listened carefully. It seemed these rabbits had reproduced out of control and were becoming a nuisance for the local farmers. There were mixed rumors about how the hunt was going so she decided to set out to investigate. Aria assumed any extra help would be welcomed considering it was everyone’s problem.

Aria would set off on the road towards the hunt, out into the open plains. The weather was perfect and the breeze gentle through her hair. At the top of a small hill stern eyes scanned the open prairie, where the warrior maiden gasped as she noticed Xach and what seemed to be a wounded Michael, “Is that..?!” Then upon a second look noticed the living iron box Pierre, and finally Regula. They seemed to be in a stressful situation as shots were fired, swords swung and arrows flew.

Without further hesitation she went around the hill, so as to not attract attention towards herself and possibly become another one in dire need. What good would she be if shortly after trying to save them became a victim herself? She determined this rabbit swarm had to be faced as a united front.

As she sprinted her way towards the others teleporting [teleport F] into their ranks appearing as out of thin air, gasping for breath due to the exertion. “Aria Barlow, at your service. I hav-“ Regula had then made a suggestion, and nodded as she stood besides Regula looking out towards the large menacing rabbit. Part of her was excited to see her, and her abilities in the field. She noticed Matt, although not a familiar face he seemed capable. She found it a sound decision to have the ranged fighters strike the bulk of their numbers. To which Aria filled the position of somewhat of a front line, drawing her sword.

“We must find a way to lure those little devils away from the others.” she said out loud to no one in particular as she raised her sword up next to her face with both hands pointing out towards the large evil looking horned rabbit. “Perhaps maiming their leader would force him to bring his group around himself and resort to defense.”

Novama Elvario NeramoDJI Beetlebuggo Goran Glacial

 

[Beetlebuggo]

Pierre Rothel - Novama Elvario RavenSong NeramoDJI


'Okay, 5 incoming, those horns seem likely to penetrate the hull.. I cannot let them pierce the back, otherwise mobility is killed.. wait.. if they penetrate the front, they may get stuck, and could grant a chance for a counter! But it would be painful.. Defense must be prioritized..' Pierre's thoughts ran at full speed as he kept his vision trained on the 5 pursuing rabbits, whilst high-tailing it back to the group in reverse.. Taking note of another person who's pinned by a bunch of these things...

Hearing Regula and Xack's plan, along with the third voice, he decided to add input.

"That is well thought out, but note that we'll have to get through these smaller ones first! 5 on me, approaching fast! And we need to get that man out from that dogpile!"

Just for safe measure, his movement direction varied, so there could be that possibility that they graze the armor and get caught on the treads.. and if they were to go straight for the hull, then he may have to go with plan B...

 

[NeramoDJI]

Matt heard Regula's call, but this changed nothing about what he had plans of doing, since what she said was his plan in the first place. The small rabbits wanted to ignore him, and that was fine by him. So, with a drawing of another arrow, he took a deep breath, looking up at the Giant Rabbit, slowly cracking his neck a moment. "Alright Bugs! Just you and me then!" He called to the rabbit, taking a deep breath and performing two abilities, firstly pointing towards the animals chest with a grey flash of his eye, performing a [Slayers Shot to Achille's Heel], aiming for the beasts chest, particularly where he assumed the lungs would be, believing it to be best to debilitate it and attempt a lethal blow at the same time.

Once he fired his first arrow, he pointed with two fingers to where he believed the beasts heart was, taking a deep breath and drawing back another arrow, firing to the place he pointed with another grey flash of his eye, using [Slayers Aim] and going for the beasts heart, trying to go for lethal blows on the target, while also aiming for the center of mass as he had heard was meant to be done by ranged folks as himself.

With two of his actions completed, Matt gave another holler. "How about that then you rat?! Come on then! Show me what you got!" He called, quickly starting to move along, adjacent to the large rabbit in the hopes it would come after him itself, thinking he could deal with it while the others dealt with the riff raff now that he definitely had it's attention.

 

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo RavenSong
OOC: Xack, keep track of E grade ability use. Matt should track D grade ability usage. Neramo should note the 2 abilities you used didn't specify grade, but grade on sheet was D so your 2nd ability was not considered when adjudicating post since your D abilities go on cooldown after the first shot.
Time: 12:41pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky
Cooldown:
TLDR: Xack is downed by rabbits. Pierre is infested with rabbits. Matt's arrows missed. Regula and Aria have a giant rabbit trying to blow them away.
Post Listening:

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

Xack was able to cleave through one of the rabbits as it flew it him. It passed by him, split into two parts, and splatted on the ground to spread its insides over the tall grass. The red swordsman wouldn't get much farther than that, however. Opting not to defend, Xack was intercepted and impaled by the remaining 4 rabbits before he could aid Michael. Whether their horns penetrated his armor and merely hit places between the plates or around the armor altogether, Xack would have bloody holes in his body of variable length. He had two options: get back up and hope the rabbits didn't attack him again, or pretend to be dead and lay very still. The rabbits on Michael seemed content to just sit on his downed body. Perhaps Xack would get the same treatment. Maybe. (If he tries to continue fighting at this point, he will risking being maimed)

Pierre didn't fair much better. The rabbits were faster than he was and his big body made for an easy target. They launched themselves at him like rockets, their horns piercing his armored hull. As hoped, the first couple got stuck after putting sizeable holes in the front of his body. But then the last 3 dog piled the situation. Joining the other 2, they punched a hole large enough the rabbits were able to start wiggling into Pierre's body. It did not feel good and it only felt worse as they started looking for items, cables, and the like to nom on and damage as they could. Pierre's mind would get a little fuzzy with the added passengers bopping around inside doing as they pleased. If left inside, they would eventually debilitate Pierre. For now, Pierre had a limited time window of functionality.

Aria's arrival on scene was noted but offered little in immediate assistance for the present situation. The 5 rabbits sitting on Michael stood straight up and stared at the party with red eyes but did not move from their post.

Of the explosive and powerful arrows and bullets fired at the boss rabbit, none harmed it as the rabbit stopped pacing and launched itself at Regula and Aria with a C grade Horn Attack. While Matt's arrows narrowly missed the rabbit, Regula and Aria would note Regula's ammunition got repelled by the shockwave surrounding the rabbit as it was bearing down on their position, massive horns first.

Spoiler: Horned Rabbit

 

[Elvario]

Regula
​

Mentions: Michael Novama | Xack Goran Glacial | Matt NeramoDJI | Pierre Beetlebuggo | Aria RavenSong

Regula gritted her teeth as she saw Xack and the metal monster (Pierre) being penetrated deeply and from multiple angles. The metal one even had multiple enemies coming inside of him. Regula instantly wrote them off, as she wasn't able to help them and didn't expect them to be able to continue after being ganged up on like that.

To make matters worse, her bullets and Matt's arrow didn't even harm the big rabbit... The situation was getting pretty iffy, at this rate.

Aria's arrival was welcome, but was at risk of being rendered useless if she'd get caught up in this big rabbit's attack, so Regula yelled out to her. “Get behind me! We'll counterattack after impact!” She wasn't sure if she was being overconfident, but she was really banking on her craftsmanship and abilities leaving her a little less penetrated than the ones that'd been caught by the smaller rabbits.

Regula wasn't under the impression that she'd be able to dodge the incoming giant rabbit, so she readied her cloak and greaves and steadied herself for a very heavy incoming hit. Perhaps she might be able to block the initial impact and side-step to let the remainder of its weight, strength and force make it fly off to the side, safely past herself and Aria. As she did so, she used her Combustion Magic from her cloak to put an F Grade [Backfire Defence] in the hope of further countering/redirecting its force. [Defend/Attack]

Now that the rabbit was close to her, she could also finally use her [Appraisal D] on it. Perhaps it'd give her some valuable insight on how it'd been able to deflect her bullets or what it was doing with the red-eyed smaller rabbits.

Sadly enough, she realised she didn't have the energy to fire another shot, so the best she could do was to hope that Matt and Aria would make use of this moment to try and catch the rabbit off-guard.

• Grade D Ability Cooldown: 1 Post Cooldown (CD 0/2)
  Appraisal - Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.
• Grade E Ability Cooldown: 1 Post Cooldown (CD 1/1)
  Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity E, Combustion Affinity E, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade E – 1 Post Cooldown.
• Grade F Ability Cooldown: 0 Post Coldown (CD 0/0)
  Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity F, Combustion Affinity F, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown.
  Backfire Defence – Magic Affinity F, Combustion Affinity F, metal-threaded cloak. - Uses some of the explosive power of combustion magic directly from the armour itself in order to throw projectiles off-course, shake off enemies that are holding onto it in an attempt at diminishing the blows of incoming hits through a well-time counter-force. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown.

 

[RavenSong]

Aria had assessed the situation as best she could, her previous encounters had made her a bit more calculating when it came to committing an attack. She began to learn to observe, calculate, focus the whole of her senses into the task at hand. Aria exhaled a deep breath as she gripped her sword firmly, her eyes fixed upon the red orbs that gazed in her direction. It was then that Matt released his strike, but the rabbit leader sprang into a full charge towards her. Effectively missing, albeit by a short margin. She also noticed the powerful shelling from Regula’s weaponry exploded before the ammunition could cause any serious damage. As the massive monster jumped forward through the smoke, Aria’s reflexes kicked in, changing her stance, in a last second effort she heard Regulas voice through the action before reappearing behind the riflewoman. [Teleport F] Landing on her stomach she quickly sprang to her feet as dust powdered off of her figure.

She quickly glanced at the other two who were getting overrun, beginning to feel exactly how dire the situation was becoming for them. “I thought I was coming here for others to teach ME how to hunt these rabbits!” She thought as she lifted her sword once more preparing for a counter attack.

Finding the rabbit monster now away from the others she immediately decided to follow up, although she took note of the force field, she bet on the idea that it was only immune to ranged weapons. Considering all possible areas where her sword would be most effective, she mustered her strength and courage. Now practically within striking distance Aria would teleport once again, but this time headed towards the beast bringing her sword down with all her might, slashing at the creature's larger horn. With a little luck she hoped to break its horn [Lucky F 1] [Teleport Strike F- Bleeding F]

Novama Elvario Beetlebuggo NeramoDJI Goran Glacial

 

[Beetlebuggo]

Pierre Rothel - RavenSong Novama Elvario NeramoDJI Goran Glacial ----


As Pierre had expected, some of the enemies had gotten their horns stuck on his body, bad news? the other three were now rummaging about within..

Letting out a harsh grunt, he slowed to a stop from the engine strain,mainly caused by a rabbit perching itself on his brake pedal..

His mind fuzzed as well, but as he did.. he felt some sort of warmth.. oddly comforting warmth.. Something about the Rabbits' fur brushing along the walls of the small inner space just, gave a bit of a tingling feeling..

'..I did always want a rabbit for a pet as a child back then.. heh.. yet here I am, stabbed by the animal I've wanted to care for like a parent.. an Irony I'll accept..'

looking down with his barrel to see the remaining 2 loged in his front, he gave a small sigh.

"..Kinda... cute, actually..."

Most likely enough this would look like Pierre going limp and dying his last breath.

But in reality he was reversing gently and slowly to Aria's side, ignoring the discomfort of a rabbit nibbling his gear lever.

"..There's some stuck within me.. but... doesn't, feel as bad..." He softly said... Looking over to the others in struggle..

 

[Ian Temero]

Tannia Duellona

Strength - C
Precision - B
Intelligence - C
Vitality - C
Speed - F

Armor - D
Weapon - D

Actions:
1. Appraisal - D
2. Move to Large Rabbit
3. Grapple Large Rabbit ( Strength - C)

Well that had been a waste of time. Meeting the half-giant boy had been interesting but the mission as a whole had fallen through. Too many people loosing their nerves in the face of the giants. So Tannia had left, heading back to Ryke. She walked along the fields thinking about how she was going to explain things to Rossel when a loud sound echoed across the plains. She paused and listened. Hearing the sounds of shouting and fighting in the distance she made her way over to investigate what was going on.

It was certainly a strange sight, a crowd of kids fighting a bunch of rabbits. And a strange metal box was in there too, but that wasn't so important. What was important was the two fighters that were down. These kids were getting their asses handed to them, especially by the giant rabbit. They were scattered, uncoordinated, and if it kept up they were going to be slaughtered.

Tannia activated her Appraisal skill, getting a read on the situation before she was in the thick of it. "Everyone regroup!" She roared ordering above the fighting as soon as she was close enough. "Archers! Provide cover fire! Once gathered clear out the small fry!" She ran towards the battle, armor clinking with each step as the large rabbit attacked the two girls. One of the girls vanished and the other braced herself for impact. What ever the result Tannia was there as the attack finished, grabbing onto the rabbit's horns and attempting to hold the beast in place. "I'll hold the big one as long as possible! Now hurry!"

 

[NeramoDJI]

Matt began to see the situation of the rabbits, seeing that he was essentially the only one not under attack, frowning a little bit as he sighed, staying in place so that he could perform 3 attacks, taking aim at the Rabbits on top of Michael. If this giant rabbit was giving commands, and was smart enough to ignore his taunts, then it was smart enough to use Hostages, which meant he should remove that possibility, which meant removing the proverbial guns from his friends head. He began aiming so that the arrows could strike the rabbits without hitting Michael, he took three rapid shots. His main intent on taking down the little rabbits before they could become a bigger problem by threatening the downed members of the party.

He saw the rabbits on Xack and Pierre, thinking he would leave the rabbits on Xack for the time, dealing with the priority list as Michael, Pierre, and then Xack. Michael was the strongest, though at the current time the most banged up, Pierre he could maybe rescue from the rabbits before they got too much damage on, and Xack didn't really seem to be that big of a priority since the rabbits didn't seem to attack him while he was down, and he wasn't too helpful when he was up either, he was the reason their biggest hitter was down anyways. Of course, that didn't mean that Matt would leave him for dead, he'd still deal with those rabbits after dealing with those on Michael and Pierre, since he wasn't the kind of guy to just leave someone behind because they weren't useful or anything. That'd just be cruel. And Xack did still evidently have his skills, just didn't have time to show them this time.

 

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo RavenSong Ian Temero
OOC: Xack, keep track of E grade ability use. Matt should track D grade ability usage. All 5 of Pierre's rabbits are squeezed inside. Aria doesn't have the strength to properly wield D swords.
Time: 12:41pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky
Cooldown:

• Sword Ability C - 3/3
• Sword Ability D - 2/2
• Michael Ability E - 1/1

TLDR: Big Rabbit plowed through Regula and Aria, Regula's scan got rabbit info, Aria and Tannia work together to take down Big Rabbit temporarily, Matt killed a few rabbits and woke Michael up, Michael is on the move.
Post Listening:

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

The giant rabbit barreled into Regula and on through hitting Aria as it went. It tore up the ground and left a path as it dug its legs into the air to halt its attack. It quickly rounded on the girls and bounded toward them to finish them off. Both girls had been ragdolled in the process, their bodies flattened into the soft earth or sent flying (your choice). While Aria merely didn't teleport far enough away in an inconvenient angle for the attack, Regula's explosive steel cape defense should have worked. It went off at the right moment, right in the beasts face with all the explosive force it could muster and the cape armament was not faulty or weakened. Regula would recall and perhaps feel it in her body the answer: the attack went through her cape as if it were little more than a sheet of paper. It was unnaturally capable of piercing the reinforcement. However, such observations didn't help her or Aria now. Both girls were on the significantly wounded. If they continued fighting, they risked significant injury.

While Tannia was a bit far away to get any meaningful Appraisal data, Regula was nice and close. The large rabbit was known as a Big Rabbit with the title Rookie Crusher. Unlike smaller variants, the large horned rabbit Big Rabbit had lived a long time and accumulated quite a bit of mana in its body causing it to grow to its large dimensions. It also gain the ability to mind control and make minions of lesser horned rabbits. Unsurprisingly, its horn attack also has a penetrating property that ignores a substantial amount of opposing force. Such a beast likely had a bounty by the guild, but all its other information was beyond Regula's ability to scan.

Just before the Big Bunny could take out Aria and Regula, Tannia appeared and Aria warped to back her up. The rabbit was strong and larger than Tannia, It was going to be a failed attempt at best and a way to get beat at worst. Aria's warp strike happened to hit the rabbit in just the right way at just the right moment. While it didn't wound the rabbit, it tipped it off balance and the entire beast fell flat on its belly. How lucky. From its prone position, it would not be able to mount as easy a protest to Tannia's grappling attempts and was forced to writhe about on the ground. It would buy the team precious moments. Precious FEW moments. Meanwhile Pierre rolled up with a request for Aria. She could see through the gaping hole in Pierre a small nest of 5 horned rabbits squeezed inside and getting into things with destructive tendencies.

The Big Rabbit produced a powerful odor up close. It was unclear whether it was for mating or simply just a nasty creature. However, surrounding the area, were many more horned rabbits. Unlike the ones plaguing the party, they were not red-eyes, but their presence and growing numbers was concerning. Despite the Big Rabbit's struggling, it still looked to be grinning wickedly.

Matt's shots were straight and true: 3 rabbits fell dead and rolled off Michael's still body. That left 2 rabbits on his back, 4 still on Xack, and 5 in Pierre's cockpit. The explosion of fire, dust, and debris that was coming from the battle with the big rabbit was heating up though. Time was of the essence as things were swiftly approaching an end.

As one of the rabbits on Michael fell off, his hands tightened on his swords, on Alpha in particular.

"Area Heal..." (C grade sword ability)

Michael said in a horse voice and immediately started to stand. The 2 remaining rabbits on top of him became agitated and immediately started stabbing him with their horns. There were holes in his body where daylight was actually shining through in between pumps of blood. His blood was all over him. He would give Xack a run for the title of red swordsman. His face was haggard and pale with eyes unable to focus. Shining lights of blue and white soon erupted from his sword and bathed him and the area in a warm, blue glow. Despite the efforts of the rabbits, Michael's wounds closed quickly like water filling a sudden air pocket. As the moments passed and Michael's strength was regained, he stood straighter and the rabbits fell off. The area of the heal would also encompass Xach, allowing him to fully heal as well.

Michael regained most of his sense and took in the battlefield to get a sense of what had happened. He glared at Xack almost as much as the rabbits. His body posture suggested he tried running in the wrong direction. Michael's expression changed to be visibly indignant over the whole situation. Rookie mistakes followed by naivete followed by more rookie mistakes and finally chaos.

"Never again,"

Michael said bitterly before raising blue Alpha to his forehead. By this time the healing effect had ended and Michael whispered words to the blade as if in prayer,

"I beseech thee, greater will,
to grant favor to me still.
Though I stand alone beneath the sun,
I'm undefeated thanks to One,
My Alpha"

(Sword Ability D: Battleform Alpha)

A brilliant light radiated from the blade and enveloped Michael in light. The air was filled with a humming and a certain energy that excited the rabbits and disturbed the surrounding tall grass. After the moment passed, Alpha and Michael were replaced by a knight garbed in white and blue armor.

"Time for a test run..."

Michael started, his voice muffled and broadcasted at the same time, but didn't get far before he was reminded of the horned rabbits at his legs, no longer surprised or able to hurt him.

"Cleanup starts with you then,"

The adventurer informed the rabbits before his shortswords protruded from his forearms with an audible *shink*. Thrusting downward on both sides while kneeling, Michael pierced both rabbits like tissue paper. Their fur was already stained with Michael's blood, but now his blades were dripping with theirs. Leaving the blades extended, he would look to Xack's situation next.

(Michael Ability E: Blender)

Spoiler: Horned Rabbit

 

[Elvario]

Regula
​

Mentions: Michael Novama | Xack Goran Glacial | Matt NeramoDJI | Pierre Beetlebuggo | Aria RavenSong

Regula found out the biggest flaw in all her predictions the hard way. She got crushed into the earth as she desperately tried to at least hold position to prevent it from moving past her. She was sure her defence would've held up, if it wasn't for one aspect of its attack. “Fuck! Its horn can pierce armour!” She cursed, as she tried to feel which parts of her body were still functional. Just about everything was painful and sore, but nothing was so broken it'd stop her from fighting. It's why she didn't think twice about continuing this.

Her Appraisal showed her a fair few things, although not all of it would be useful. There was a title the rabbit was definitely living up to and which stood out the most, but another part was worth sharing. “It really is mind-controlling the other ones!” She had at least been correct about it controlling the other rabbits. Underestimating the strength of its horn had been her biggest mistake; one she wouldn't make again.

Just as she was getting up and worrying about what to do next, she spotted a new person (Tannia) holding onto the now toppled rabbit. Considering it looked like its horn was what had pushed away the bullets, it should be vulnerable in the rest of its body. Before even getting up from being trampled into the ground, Regula merely rolled over and used her close position to fire a point-blank F Grade [Combustion Shot] at the rabbit's stomach, followed by an E Grade [Combustion Shot] at the exact same place as quickly as possible after, hoping to wound and mellow-up its fur/hid with the first shot for the second, stronger one to really pierce through the rabbit.

Only after firing twice, did she try to get back up and [move] to make some distance between herself and the rabbit. She was a ranged combatant and she wasn't in any shape to take another hit from this monster. That said, she soon spotted that more rabbits were gathering around. Was it the scent it had been giving off?!? She wasn't sure, as these once weren't red-eyed, but she didn't like the prospect. “It might be attracting other rabbits!” The latter also meant she couldn't back-up all that far, as she didn't wish to attract the attention for these new rabbits and have even more of them come after their group.

• Grade D Ability Cooldown: 1 Post Cooldown (CD 1/2)
  Appraisal - Grade D – 2 Post Cooldown.
• Grade E Ability Cooldown: 1 Post Cooldown (CD 0/1)
  Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity E, Combustion Affinity E, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade E – 1 Post Cooldown.
• Grade F Ability Cooldown: 0 Post Coldown (CD 0/0)
  Combustion Shot – Magic Affinity F, Combustion Affinity F, combustion gun – Character uses combustion magic to fire a bullet from their gun. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown.
  Backfire Defence – Magic Affinity F, Combustion Affinity F, metal-threaded cloak. - Uses some of the explosive power of combustion magic directly from the armour itself in order to throw projectiles off-course, shake off enemies that are holding onto it in an attempt at diminishing the blows of incoming hits through a well-time counter-force. - Grade F – 0 Post Cooldown.

 

[Beetlebuggo]

Pierre Rothel - RavenSong Novama Elvario Goran Glacial Ian Temero

Pierre had turned to face the new developments in this scenario, now having taken note that time was of the essence, and this was the only chance to end it right then and here...

'..The time window is small, but big just enough hopefully..'

Turning to the direction of the monster, whom is trying to get out of the newcomer's hold, he immediately floored it. To his hope, the sudden movement combined with the traction with his [Treads] would also get a hit with the rabbits inside himself.. for now, he had a big guy to run down..

Blitzing towards the Big Rabbit's body, he notified Regula and Tannia..

"I'm gonna run him down! Make Way!"

 

[NeramoDJI]

Matt saw the chaos erupt on the battlefield, sighing softly as he didn't miss a beat, drawing more arrows to assist, however, he was momentarily distracted by a large splatter of blood landing on his face, from the rabbits that were eviscerated by Michael, not bothering to remove it. Luckily none of the blood had gotten in his eyes, just his forehead and quite a bit in his hair. Pointing his bow towards the rabbits that remained. He knew he had made a mistake with his rash attempt to distract the rabbits, but now, he beginning to correct it, with his first action being helping Michael, and now for the next, now that his abilities were ready again. He wasn't going to attempt to hit the large rabbit again, now knowing of it's little force field.

However, his original plan of helping Pierre was now ruined by the tank driving directly towards the one thing Matt was trying to avoid in this field. So instead, he turned to fire at the rabbits upon Xacks back, three arrows, each seeking out a different rabbit. With the plan in mind, he took a deep breath and took a different angle like he did with michael, to get the rabbits without striking Xack with the arrows. He'd rather not undo the healing Michael had given right away, or let it be undone by those rabbits. And with three different twangs of his bow, the arrows were launched.

"Looking good Michael, glad to see you back up!" He called, getting a little bit more emotionally invested this time instead of his usual apathy, now that he had fired the arrows, now looking to identify his next targets now that he had helped Xack.

 

[RavenSong]

Aria


Wounded from being launched through the sky and falling on her side after rolling through the ground. Aria appeared fairly worn, her clothes had holes and rips. Her face was filled with scratches and bruises. She had managed to luckily topple the giant rabbit monster over while Tannia now seemed to grapple the beast into submission. She doubted this ceasefire would last as she firmly gripped the sword in her hands.

Aria was gazing at the sinister looking creature just about ready to continue their attack on Big Rabbit. Then a humming sound grew louder in volume, the metal creature from before now stood next to her. He seemed to be in a tough spot, noticing the small rabbit imps wreaking havoc on the metal box’s insides. It couldn’t be good. She wanted to help the other two women finally put the beast down. Especially since it was a threat to the local townspeople. She’d feel much better if a creature this dangerous wasn’t on the loose.

In a split second decision she decided to help however, activating her ability [Psionic Blade F]. The dagger floated at her shoulder. It appeared to be difficult to swing a sword inside of the metal box, but her dagger could do so much more effectively. She stepped up atop of Pierres tread and opened the hatch revealing the mischievous rabbits tearing away at the cabling and even defecating in the cockpit seat. Clearly this was a disaster.

Aria had mounted an attack on the rabbit's inside Pierre, Psi blade was now piercing the bunnies cute little hides and faces. As the gore ensued she continued dispatching as many as she could. Striking at the ones that came out after her with the sword. Explosions had then gone off to which Aria looked outside to see, Regula was firing away at the Bad Rabbit. [Psionic Blade : F ]

But before she could continue anything, Pierres motor revved and seemed to come to life. Aria blinked. It was then that the breathing war machine suddenly accelerated forward. She struggled a bit to maintain her footing until she finally fell but landed on her feet.

“Hmm, a battering ram. As good idea as any.” She mumbled as her blade returned, then sent out to strike the Bad Rabbit. Drilling into its hide. Once again Aria warped and reappeared at the giant rabbit's side coming down with a fierce attack as she struck with all her might. [Teleport Strike F]

Novama Beetlebuggo Elvario Goran Glacial NeramoDJI

 

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo RavenSong Ian Temero
OOC: Aria doesn't have the means of using Psionic Blade as an F grade ability, so it was only used on tank rabbits.
Time: 12:52pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky
Cooldown:
TLDR: Aria killed some rabbits with her dagger before it broke. Aria, Pierre, and Regula routed the Big Rabbit. Michael prevented the big Rabbit from fleeing. Party has obtained the goal of their extra credit and lived to tell the tale. Free roleplay to discus aftermath.
Post Listening:

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

Aria's Dagger spun to life and made quick work of the rabbits plaguing Pierre's insides. A red mess was now left inside and leaking out in some places, but at least the risk of critical damage was put to rest of the moment. However, the effort put on the dagger broke it (dagger can be fixed up after rp without cost).

Michael would nod to Matt's welcome.

"Thanks for looking out. Much appreciated. You exercised some good judgement back there weeding out the smaller ones first. Stay sharp though. I sense several more horned rabbits in the area. Might as well start picking them off while you can. We'll either break their will to fight or thin their numbers here to win no matter what they do,"

Michael inform Matt, thanking him at the same time. He then bent his legs and they bulged and pulsed with blue energy. It was a move not unlike the horned rabbits. A rush of air and some scattered grass and dirt later, Michael was gone, having launched himself into the blue sky.

Big Rabbit was momentarily held down, but it was not trapped. With only Tannia holding the rabbit down, she was at a severe disadvantage. Despite their overall strength being similar, the Rabbit was a few times her weight and size. It planted its four paws into the earth and leveraged its entire body against the earth to whip its head upward. If Tannia did not let go to stay on the ground, she would risk getting flung into the air a couple dozen feet. Attempting to hold onto the horn of the rabbit would have a similarly brutal fate as the rabbit stood. Pierre's charge and Aria's warp strike managed to reach the rabbit just as it was taking off. Any hurts received from them were minimal at best, but Regula's quick blasts while the rabbit was hampered found their mark.

The Big Rabbit was flying through the air with the power of his incredible leap. It had broken through the adventurers' attempts to contain him. He was weakened and injured with most of minions slain. It was time to leave and regroup with new allies. Despite Regula's gun wounding him in such a way that he might leave a trail of blood for a time, it wouldn't matter if he could recruit a new harem first. He just had to get away.

"bZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!"

The Rabbit heard it first but never saw it as a circular blue saw separated its head from its body. Michael stopped spinning several feet after the attack just in time to land on the plains with an audible *thud* and accompanying ground tremor. A moment passed for Michael to stand up from the impact surrounded by dust clouds before they were settled by a red rain that briefly showered the air before the two parts of the giant rabbit landed with a wet *thump*. (Tannia would be significantly injured if she persisted in holding onto the rabbit)

After the Big Rabbit was slain, whatever was drawing all the other rabbits to the area was gone and they quickly hopped off as best they could. The area was covered in stained red furs and grass. The smell of death was strong enough it may draw predators so the party would need to work quickly to collect the rabbits they killed onto the cart. Exploring the warren guarded by the rabbits, the party found their prize: Horned Rabbit eggs. The nest was a large mound with a little over a dozen eggs of varying colors. They were about the size of ostrich eggs or at least x3 the size of traditional eggs. Their shells were as hard as the rabbit horns. They were particularly valuable as a food, crafting material, and potential companion starter. Returning to the Guild with this and all the rabbits killed would be sure to gain praise and recognition.

During the after period while everyone was recovering and handling the collecting before the final departure, Michael spoke so everyone could hear, his suit amplifying his voice to a small degree.

"Everyone survived and the mission, although not complete, is in the bag. Anyone who wishes to join the guild will surely be allowed and those of you already in the guild will likely be up for promotion with this. However..."

His tone changed and his displeasure was obvious,

"Some of you did not stick with the plan and took unnecessary risks. If you ever want to form a party someday, you can't go in like some solo mercenary."

Michael didn't name names, but everyone likely had an idea of the people in the group they thought could have performed better. Internally, Michael was still trying to figure out how he personally could have done better and still performed his role as the protector and overseer of the test. He silently hoped the others would do the same.

"It is good to reflect on a mission and think of what needs to be done better for next time,"

Michael added before getting back to work collecting rabbits. The big rabbit would be a trick to take back even if they sliced it into parts. Michael kept an eye on Pierre. What or who he was wasn't clear to Michael, so it was better to be cautious. The idea of a isekaied tank didn't surprise Michael, but he couldn't trust some Tank ghost not to be a menace to living humans either.

(we have reached the end of the roleplay. We can end the rp whenever you guys are done posting in character for the scene.)

Spoiler: Horned Rabbit

 

[Beetlebuggo]

Sighing in slight exhaustion, Pierre turned to Michael.

"I very much agree. Maybe we can do training exercises once everyone recovers from their wounds/injuries? We could discuss details on the Route back if so desired, but I must separate paths temporarily to the Ryken Riverrbanks to refuel. I may also provide assistance with carrying the rabbit parts as well, just climb up behind my Turret and provide directions.”

Novama

 

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo RavenSong Ian Temero
OOC:
Time: 12:53pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky
Cooldown:
TLDR:
Post Listening:

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

"You run...on water?"

Michael asked Pierre incredulously. His suit hid his normal features but it was apparent he was surprised by something.

"..I'm talking to a tank..."

He muttered under his breath.

 

[Beetlebuggo]

“Correct, oh right, I forgot.. My name’s Pierre, Pierre Rothel. A pleasure to meet and fight alongside you Mr..?”
Novama

 

[Elvario]

Regula
​

Mentions: Michael Novama | Pierre Beetlebuggo | Aria RavenSong

Regula wiped the sweat and blood off herself, for as best as she could at least. Getting herself to look presentable after having been pounded into the ground just moments ago was a tough challenge. She stretched a little, checking if all her limbs were still working. “That was a far more intense field test than I expected it would be~” She said, to nobody in particular.

She listened to Michael's words with little interest. He was saying nothing new, after all. Of much more interest was the armour he was suddenly wearing. “Say, Michael, what's up with the design of this armour? I really can't place it.”

There was, however, another thing she couldn't place. She looked at Pierre, trying to wrap her head around it and failing. “I give up, I've got no clue what in the world you are... I'm Regula, by the way, a blacksmith by trade and gunsmith by passion.” As she said it, she made a round around Pierre. “No offence, but you but you could really stand from having parts of this... armour? Shell? Skin... Sorry, I've got no clue what to call it. Anyhow, you could really stand to thicken it up a little in some places. Add some extra plating and reinforce existing parts...” She was already mentally drawing schematics on how to improve this odd metal existence.

Her curiosity had almost made her forget greeting her friend, but not entirely. “Ah, Aria, nice timing, by the way! Did you just return from the Light barony? You should join us for some rabbit stew or roasted rabbit later~ I'm going to pester the guild until someone shares all their recipes with me!””

 

[Beetlebuggo]

Pierre Rothel - Elvario RavenSong

“Erm, It’s called my Hull. And I happen to agree very well, I can offer supply transportation in return if needed.”

 

[Novama]

Mentions: @Clyvelle @Youpi NeramoDJI Elvario Goran Glacial Beetlebuggo RavenSong Ian Temero
OOC:
Time: 12:54pm
Weather: Cool but not cold, clear blue sky

Northern Ryken Plains

Michael​

"Michael,"

Michael answered Pierre before turning to Regula's question. It would be lame to say he didnt kneo where the tyle of his armor came from, so he lied.

"I,uh, got it from a fae,"

He replied as his mind raced. His mind was drawn to legeneds of his homeworld. He decided he would run with it.

"There was a fae I met at a lake once. I helped her when i saw she was being accosted by monsters. As thanks, she raised this suit up from the water and gave it to me."

It was a better tale for a common room in good spirits, but Michael figured it would suffice. More interesting than the reality of him sitting in his inn room for a week fiddling with Alphas enchantments till the suit was the result.

He flexed his gloved hand. The armor was less a suit and more a part of his body now like a second skin.

 

[Elvario]

Regula
​

Mentions: Michael Novama | Pierre Beetlebuggo

Regula raised an eyebrow when Pierre answered her. “A hull, you say? So you're like a ship then, except on land?” She shook her head about the transportation stuff. “That'll work itself out, I'm more interested in figuring out what you are, no offence, but I really don't get how you even manage to exists in the way you do. It's quite fascinating.”

She then turned back to Michael. “From a Fae in the lake, you say? That reminds me of a story I heard about as a child, except that Fae gave someone a sword and made him king. I'm not sure how it went, but I think he started collecting Knights or something? Anyhow, this armour looks really fancy, so you've got me convinced~ Whatever made it the way it was, I'm going to study up on it!”