Graded [Kananto Village] The Dead awake at Night (Blue Viscera Occult Questline)

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
interactions: Skyhunter Vexumin Elvario EMIYAman


Gawain's sword sliced clean through the zombie's skull leaving the creature's body drop to the ground as he whirled around to take on the next one. A slash to the right and a stab to left leaving two more corpses to fall. One of the undead grabbed a hold of him so he brought down his fury with a smack of the pommel onto the zombie's skull. While he kept his attention on the fight he couldn't help but notice something felt different. He had gotten involved in gently of fights as Luca. Brawls with his fist, the occasional skirmish with a knife, and of course beating up the occasional victims who earned his wrath. There was always a rush of emotion, satisfaction, and adrenaline that had accompanied each bout. Now that was missing. Part of it was probably the lack of a living body to produce the adrenaline. That only left the question of the emotion and satisfaction. Had his transition to the new world make him lose his taste for violence?

Slashing through another enemy Gawain was aware of Atiifa and Renee behind him. Burst of lightning and the chanting of no man's land. Magic at work against the undead. It was certainly effective and he could tell that they were having an effect. The horde was thinning as between the three of them, the two figures that had emerged from the town gate to start the combat and new arrivals the horde was being cut down. Gawain was filled with a sense of hope now starting to overpower his anger. The desire to save the village was looking more and more like a possibility.

As Gawain moved through the horde and approached the towns gate, he yelled out to it's defenders and hoped they would be able to hear it over the sounds of battle. "Defenders of the Village, we are here to help you!". Now it all depended on how the defenders reacted to the skeleton's calls.

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
​

Kurikara and Garrett cut through the hordes of undead like spectres death. There was little to no communication between the two just a dance of blades. The two hulking warriors could go on fighting for a long time but the fact of the matter was that Garrett would tire eventually and the task before them was large. As a Living Armor Kurikara would not tire physically and theoretically he could eventually destroy all the undead but the town may not have that long.

As the tempo of battle was established and Kurikara fell into a empty state of mind it was suddenly interrupted by new arrivals. Seemingly both at random and coincidentally at the same time. A group of three appeared from the forest with a skeleton with sword and shield leading the charge and the other two appearing to be a Witch and a short monster of some kind seemingly chasing after it. Kurikara decapitated two zombies as he wondered whether or not to kill the skeleton as well. He was without a doctor but an undead and a portion of his spirit desired it annihilated but it cut down zombies as well and was far too animated to be a mind less monster. The other two were a mystery he didn't have the time to unravel. Another zombie was cut down with Garrett catching one that was approaching Kurikara from behind.

As this new situation continue d to develop even more variables made themselves known. Kurikara was beginning to tire of all this social interaction, he simply wasn't suited for it. A women in surprisingly fine if somewhat dirty clothing appeared from his and Garretts far right, he had half a mind to cut her down and remove another unforseen variable but her joining in the fray against the zombies and a whisper from the back of his mind stayed his sword. The women called out to Kurikara claiming to be with a hunter delivering supplies to the village he knew not what she spoke of but Garret made a grunt of recognition at the hunter she was talking about before going back to cleaving three zombies in half at once. Kurikara simply nodded at her before going back to his work. Then as if to spite his desire to just get along with his duty the skeletons voice reaches him through the wind proclaiming his desire to help.

Kurikara said nothing he simply made a point not to kill him when he got close but no too close. As troublesome as they were these new arrivals raised their chances for victory and would go a long way to attaining victory, but they were still just beginning and at this rate it was going to be a long night.

Interactions: Dante Verren Elvario Skyhunter Vexumin

 

[Skyhunter]

At the front gates of Kananto...




The undead slaughter showed that they had a fighting chance against these undead. These were mindless freaks with no conscious or self awareness, these buggers had no chance against such powerful beings as these new contenders in the battle of Kananto. Garrett continued to fly through the undead, chopping and hacking through them like they were a hot knife to butter.

Atop the wall, one of the guards had a surprised look on his face at the mention of Garvin. " Garvin lives? " He called behind, yelling that Garvin was still alive and supplies were on their way. Turning to the other guards on the walls he began to call to them. " Thin the herd! Garvin will be here with supplies! " they then began to fire their crossbows and reload faster, it looked like they had hope. " Alright, lady! " The guard called to Kalina, " Help us thin the herd out before he gets here! Please! " he sounded desperate, these people were desperate.

Atiifa's spell helped disrupt the organized ranks of these undead as they were beginning to overwhelm Gawain, they were beginning to disperse and act confused, thinning the herd and making stragglers. The spirit from Renee's journal gave power to the witch, she began to generate mana and used that resource to create magic, she felt a zap in her fingertips and fired a bolt of lightning (Lightning Bolt- D - 2 post cooldown) at a zombie that got too close to Gawain. The zombie exploded in a violent fashion, only blood and gore being left behind. Renee closed her book and began to run to Gawain's side, trying to make sure he was okay.

A couple of the defenders heard the skeleton and immediately aimed their crossbows at the warrior and heard its words. They stopped and looked at each other. " Did that skeleton just talk to us? " one asked, the one looked to the other. " No, I think we're just too tired and are hearing shit. Kill it. " They aimed their crossbows only for Renee to get in Gawain's way. " Hold on! We are travellers! We're trying to help you lot! This is how we are repaid? The skeleton is on our side! Please listen! " the defenders saw the human witch and let their crossbows down, thinking on about what the witch said. " Hurry up and get to the gates! " one called as they fired the crossbows killing a couple more undead near the two.

Renee grabbed Gawain's arm and pulled him forward. " Hurry, go! I have to get Atiifa! " Renee told the undead knight turning and running into the fray, passing the white armoured warrior that continued to slice through these undead, seeing the small beast actually do well with his No Man's Land spell, the zombies were staying away from the small beast. " Atiifa! Come on! " Renee beckoned to the mage as she stayed away from the stragglers still affected by no man's land.

Towards the south of Kananto, there was quiet rumblings as a carriage came bombing out of the forest, Garvin stood on the carriage as undead were hanging on the side of the cart, trying to get the human, Garvin was firing his crossbow and reloading when he could or smashing skulls with a bash from his weapon. His horse, Scab, looked extremely terrified as it galloped across the field, smashing and stampeding undead, Garvin was holding the reins of his horse while the undead kept trying to reach him. The supplies were still intact luckily as the hunter tried his best to guide his horse towards the village. " Garvin's coming! Open the gates! " A sentry called.



The gates slowly were pulled open by a couple of guards, more appeared to help thin the herd, running out with weapons, pushing the undead back. Thanks to Garrett, he was able to thin almost all of his side out by his own power, the blood he spilled kept following him as a cape as it connected to his armor, finally as Garvin passed by him, the executioner stopped and began to retreat back. The blood dispersing and falling to the ground.



Ahead towards the East, the fog began go seep from the forest and move closer towards the village, stopping meters outside of the forest. Something stood within the fog staring down at the village, letting out a heavy breath.

" Out of the way! " Garvin called as he pulled the reins of his horse to turn a sharp left, the carriage swinging around, undead flew out of the carriage that tried to attack Garvin. Finally Scab, Garvin and the supplies ran through the gates. " Garvin's in! Everyone! Get in! " One of the sentries up top yelled. The undead had been thinned out so much there was hardly any undead left near the village.

The guards that came out to help were killing the rest of the undead, giving everyone time to get into the safe confines of the village. Garrett, covered in blood and gore, returned to the gates, effortlessly swinging his axe and killing undead that came near him. He didn't look the least exhausted as he made his way towards the gates.

Mentions: Elvario Vexumin Dante Verren EMIYAman

 

[Vexumin]

Atiifa



The beast looked around as the undead dispersed. The feeling of it, watching as the undead fled his magic. Part of it was exhilarating to Atiifa. It was as if something in his mind was pleased. To be untouchable, even if only for a moment. He just looked around, watching as the undead shuffled away. He felt like he could watch this all day, but he was far from being that strong yet. However, with each use of his abilities, he felt growth, even if it was just a little. As he marveled in his ability, Renee's voice finally clicks with him and he snaps back to reality. This was not a time to be careless, and Atiifa likely would have paid for it if it weren't for the witch.

He starts running to join the others behind the closing door, making it just in time before he had been locked out for his foolishness. Once the doors slam shut, the small creature looks around, making sure that everyone had made it through. He doubted that there would have been any casualties. Everyone seemed more than capable in the fight just moments before. He looks back towards the gate, wondering what the remaining undead were doing. Last he saw, they all started moving again. Either it was in response to the two warrior stepping from behind the walls, or something had triggered in them to get them to start moving about in force.

Atiifa approached the gates for a moment, checking to see if he could peer through the crack between the massive doors. He watched the fog as it rolled in, unaware of the presence of something within it. He was glad that they had taken the opportunity to enter the town. Being caught in that fog with all the undead about would have been a death sentence. He turns back towards the rest, leaving the gates behind, seeing what was to happen next. Nonetheless, he took his place beside Renee and Gawain. He had heard the commotion when the guards took aim at his skeletal companion, and he was not about to leave his friend to die, if these people proved to still be aggressive.

 

[Elvario]

Kalina Chivernu
​

Interactions: Renee Skyhunter | Gawain Dante Verren | Atiifa Vexumin

The white-armoured knight merely nodded at her, which wasn't a lot, but it was enough to convey two messages; The knight understood the plan and he wasn't the talkative type. Kalina took note and figured she'd leave him be. From there on out, she had nearly all of her attention focused on dealing with zombies. Shooting bolts at them from a safe distance and using her rapier whenever one slipped through and got a little too up close and personal. Things were going surprisingly well, but she did fear she'd run out of crossbow bolts sooner rather than later.

Luckily, the guards didn't question her words and instead acted upon them. They even left the safety of the walls to help thin out the herd once Garvin was in sight, which gave Kalina some time to catch her breath. With Garvin eventually entering the safety of the village, Kalina was quick to retreat as well. Finally able to breath calmly again, she finally spotted the three others. One, the skeleton knight she'd heard call out across the battlefield, the other two...

“Wait... Renee?!?” She almost didn't recognise her friend after all the changes Renee had gone through, be it the eyes, the hair, or simply growing up. “I almost didn't realise it was you, but I like the new look~ How did your eyes get so glowy?” She then recalled the excuse she'd used towards Garvin and figured she'd better be proactive about establishing it. “Ah, Garvin, meet my sister, Renee.” She tried giving Renee a quick wink in the hope that she'd play along, as it'd save her a lot of explaining.

Kalina then turned her attention to Renee's companions. Both looked like they could've been summoned by a powerful enough witch. “Did you summon these? Your own noble knight and...” Her eyes got stuck on Atiifa for a bit as she lost track of what she wanted to say and directly blurted out her thoughts instead. “Oh my, aren't you the cutest little boggart ever~” She turned to Renee. “Can I pet him?”

 

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
interactions: Skyhunter Vexumin Elvario EMIYAman


The rest of the battle was a blur. A flurry of swings from those with blades, a hail of bolts from those with crossbows, and the blasting of those with spells of magic. In particular the magic casted by Renee ripped through the dead as bolts of lighting. Things looked like they could possibly be dangerous for him but the pull of the witch saved him from the undead, would it save him from the living? The skeleton noticed the glare of the people on the wall and the dismal of his shouts meant they truly did not believe him. Luckily he was not a threat so they did not fire on him. In the end the trio joined with the defenders behind the walls and gates of the village. They were safe for now.

Now behind the village walls Gawain became fully aware of his differences from the villagers. He could feel the stares and looks of scorn from those around him. In a strange turn of events it looked like one of these defenders who had shown up was expressing a familiarity towards Renee. Her question about if the witch had summoned both Gawain and Atiifa was at least somewhat useful, for now he could play the role of a summon. Still while Atiifa went to peak out the gate only to catch the attention of the woman who knew Renee, Gawain sheathed his blade. He had no reason to keep it out, letting the weapon stay free would only draw unneeded hostility.

The skeleton reached up and pulled the hood of the cloak back over his skull, wrapping the strands of cloak around like a scarf much in the same fashion he had it when he had saved Renee. Moving to the side he quietly took a seat, happy to silently stay out of the way while what ever happened progressed. He had helped in the defense of the city and was content with that. If defense was needed again he would help, but for now staying out of it would be the best idea.

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara
Interactions: Dante Verren , Elvario , Vexumin , Skyhunter ​

Kurikara slowly but surely came out of his battle trance, returning to a more active state of mind. He would sigh if he wasn't biologically incapable, he was growing exasperated with this burden of self awareness. Why couldn't things remain as simple as the battlefield? He took the time to gain stock of the situation, the village militia and Garrett had retreated back behind the village gate when the undead had been thinned out sufficiently. The newcomers who had aided in the battle followed close behind. The man who had arrived soon after the women in finery wielding a rapier and crossbow seemed to be a resident of the village. It even seemed the warrior Garrett knew him as well though their relationship was not something Kurikara could or desired to discover. Right, his current objective was still first and foremost tactical assistance in service of the village against the undead horde. In that case...

Kurikara turned to the group of three the Witch, Undead Knight and Beast. They were a colorful group whos intentions could not be fully trusted. The display of their power against the undead led Kurikara to believe that as reduced as he is now they could fell him with their superior numbers. Besides his users last run in with beings of their kind had been problematic who's to say whether now would be any different. He walked over to them completely tense up as if expecting a fight at any moment. The Dark Woman with the rapier was there as well sparking up a conversation, the variables her presence added were accounted for. His deep yet deadpan voice rang out from his armor.

"You there, my current mission is to stand in defense of this village against the undead which threaten it. You will make clear your intentions. I must know whether or not you will get in the way of this mission. Warning, should you stand in my way I will engage you in battle."

Kurikara stops as if done speaking before a new look of permeates him. His previous stoic and still demeanor in which you could barely consider him human was replaced by a countenance that all TOO human. He put a heat and passion into his voice which had not been there before as he locked eyes with the Witch.

"Witch, you are not the first of your kind I have faced and you shan't be the last. Pray you are not as twisted as your sisters lest I strike you down as well."

With a sudden twitch he returned to his previous impassive attitude.

 

[Skyhunter]

Inside the village of Kanato...



As the gates closed behind the last member of the militia, there could be fog seen in the distance near the East where the gates faced. There could be seen a figure standing on a horse, this figure stared at the village for a few moments just to slowly back up into the forests, the fog following after it, no more undead came out this time. This was a victory for the people of Kananto.



Garret stood at the gates, watching the fog dissipate and retreat back into the woods. He grunted and turned walking back towards his village where he saw his brother hopping off the carriage with all the supplies the village needed. Garvin turned to see Kalina call to him, but what surprised the hunter was the fact that her sister appeared in the village, being one of the saviors. " This is your sister, eh? She has... A strange look about her, especially those eyes of hers. " Garvin commented.



Renee was with her companions of Gawain and Atiifa, scolding Gawain about running headfirst into battle without thinking of a plan, " What were you thinking, Gawain!? " Renee asked her undead companion with her hands on her hips like she was angry, she didn't look angry but more frustrated and worried with a mix of relief. " Those animated could have killed or injured you! They weren't just any regular undead you know! Something has a hold on them! And the guards! They would have shot you dead if I wasn't there! Two bolts through your skull and you would have been a dead undead! " Renee continued scolding the undead knight. Until she heard a familiar voice, turning around.



" Wait. Kalina? " Renee looked shocked, she recognized her voice and appearance, she looked like she hadn't aged a bit! Considering she was a vampire, but she wouldn't speak on that. " Oh my gods below it is you! " Renee went from frustrated to happy and excited, immediately tackling her sister and hugging her. " What the hells, Kalina? Why are you all the way up here? I didn't think you'd come all this way up here! " The witch had a large grin on her face. When asked on the details of her appearance, Renee stepped back and extended her arms to the sides. " Don't i look just wonderful? The glowy eyes was just a side effect of my magic growing finally.~ Maybe. " Renee looked to the Hunter and smiled a little. " Who's the well cut man? I didn't think you would find a man of all people, Kalina. He does look like a hunk. " Renee teased the vampire with a giggle. Garvin didn't really have any words besides letting out a quiet chuckle with a hint of nervousness. " It's nice to meet Kalina's sister. She did not speak much about you. " The hunter spoke, Renee saw Kalina's wink and knew to play along, the two were like real sisters.

When asked about the knight Gawain and small furry beast Atiifa, Renee turned to the two and smiled. " Not exactly, the skeleton knight here is named Gawain and he saved me, but he still is going to get a scolding from me tonight for rushing headfirst into a horde of undead. And my little pet here, Atiifa. So cute I could cuddle with him and feel better! " Renee almost squealed, when asked if Kalina could pet the small beast. Renee placed a hand out towards Atiifa, " You may pet, Atiifa. He's pretty adept in magic also. He came to us when Gawain saved me. He's harmless and cute! " Renee smiled looking to Atiifa. Garvin, the Hunter, watched these two torture this small beast, he was smirking a little. Every man's dream to be smothered by two beautiful women but not every furry beast's dream it seemed.

Then Renee heard a strange voice talk to her from behind, calling her a witch. Renee turned to see the tall white armored bot in front of her, standing almost too close, Renee peered up and down the armor then looked where it's visor was at. " What is this thing? It's pretty cool! " Renee exclaimed with a wide smile before it then turned to a frown. " Wait, who are you calling a witch, armor? You think you'd last against me? A well stricken lightning bolt may bring you down. " Renee almost challenged as she placed her hands on her hips staring at the white armor, " And what I'M doing here is passing through. Or i was until i saw the problem this village has! " Renee poked the chest of the armor. " A problem you can't seem to solve on your own! " Renee continued to berate the warrior. " It's a serious problem a mage like me and my furry companion can deal with. " Renee would continue to speak when she suddnly came down with a serious migraine, holding her head with both hands.

Anyone sensitive with magic would feel this migraine, this was a sign of some seriously powerful magic, this magic was nearby. The migraine would stop after a few moments, like it never happened. Then a familiar face to Kurikara would walk up to the newcomers with open arms and a thankful looking smile.



" Welcome travellers! And thank you for helping us protect our village! We humbly thank you for such dastardly work! I am Dovus, mayor of Kananto, or Mayor Dovus if you prefer. " The older man spoke, Garvin had a look of disdain on his face that Kalina would notice. " Whatever we could do to show our thanks, please just ask. " His eyes moved to Garvin, behind the mayor the group would see the Militia already in the carriage pulling the supplies out and giving them to villagers who would take what they could get, the supplies in the carriage should last for a couple of weeks. " Garvin, it is good to see you are alive, my boy! Your brother was doing... Splendid while you were absent. " His voice had changed to insincerity. Garvin huffed. " Garret is a strong warrior, of course he did well without me here. I was stuck out there all alone for a week. " The hunter explained, but the Mayor didn't look interested and instead looked to the travelers. Especially at Gawain for some reason, like he saw through his cloth mascaraed.

" Well, I'm sure you don't want to hear all this... Needless chatter, thank you for helping us get our supplies and push the undead back, it seems the fog and undead went away from what the town guard has been saying. You saved our town and we are grateful, we have a tavern here in town along with a market you are free to explore. Because you saved our town the tavern rooms and dinners are free. Tell the owners to place your orders on Mayor Dovus' tab. " Garvin looked unhappy and angry with how he was treated and walked away in the middle of the conversation. " Enjoy yourselves for the night and please, make yourself at home, heroes. I'll even see you off myself in the morning. " Dovus turned around and walked away from the group. One of the militia had placed a box on the ground for Dovus as he stood up on it, those sensitive to magic would feel the great magic coming from Dovus. Atiifa would be able to feel its presence and it was powerful. There was something strange about the mayor too, the way he spoke was almost condescending and it was like he wanted the group out of his village, and how the undead left the way they did. Kalina would know from what Garvin said that the undead always reformed their numbers when they were taken out. Something was strange for sure about this village.

" Well... That was weird. " Renee commented.



Garvin would leave to talk to his brother that stood by the gates. Garret, the tall and large man dressed similar to a executioner was listening to his smaller brother, Garvin who was talking to the silent and large man.

Interactions: Elvario Dante Verren Vexumin EMIYAman

(A lot is happening so far... Keep up the good work, you guys!)

 

[Elvario]

Kalina Chivernu
​

Interactions: Renee Skyhunter | Gawain Dante Verren | Atiifa Vexumin | Kurikara EMIYAman

Kalina couldn't abstain from making a remark back at Garvin for calling Renee 'strange-looking' (even though she had to agree the eyes were rather odd). “As if your brother doesn't look like he came out of the womb swinging that axe of his.” Truth be told, Kalina was impressed enough to steer clear of Garret.

She barely finished talking before she had to brace herself for impact as Renee jumped her. As much as she lovingly returned the affection, she wasn't quite willing to roll through the mud for it. Keeping on her feet, she couldn't help but laugh a bit, before replying. “There were rumours going around that made me worried, so I figured I'd come to check up on you~” She was a bit taken aback when Renee commented on Garvin. If she still had blood flowing through her veins, she would probably turn red in the face. Instead, she brushed it off. “I just met him today, on my way here, nothing more.” She'd continue to whisper in Renee's ear. “If anything, all I know about him is that he's got the typical manly desire to carry everything in one trip. He wouldn't even consider simply chugging some supplies across the walls during all the times he was camping just outside of the village. Can you imagine?”

Upon the introductions of Renee's companions, Kalina realised her mistake. “Ah, my humble apologies for writing you off as a mere summon, sir knight. Perhaps you'll allow me a second chance.” She'd make a short curtsy. “I'm Kalina, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Whilst Gawain's dignity had been restored, Atiifa's dignity was surrendered entirely be being called a pet and by Renee giving Kalina petting permission. Kalian kneeled down in front of Atiifa to give him a gentle head-pat right between the horns. Listening to Renee's description of Atiifa, Kalina couldn't help herself from making a remark. “Oh my, aren't you a good boy.” Thanks to Renee's description, she wasn't even realising she was dealing with a fully intelligent being and thought of him more as a well-trained magical dog.

Kalina raised an eyebrow upon hearing Kurikara's words, but allowed Renee to speak up first. She'd merely add a few words to it. “If our intentions were to harm this village, we wouldn't have had to bother ourselves with saving it from those undead and with bringing in supplies. You might want to try thinking your words through next time, before flinging around accusations and making even more of a fool of yourself.” If anything was suspicious here, it was this really out-of-place looking knight himself. Kalina somehow doubted he was a native to this town. Was he the type to accuse others just to cast away suspicion from himself? It was a theory worth keeping in mind, at the very least.

For now, Kalina listened to the mayor. She hadn't spotted any magic and was only a little worried about Renee suddenly seeming to suffer from a headache. Kalina also spotted Garvin looking rather unhappy. There was a lot of stuff to be sceptical about and Kalina couldn't help pointing some of it out. “Are you sure you can spare the resources?” From what Kalina gathered, her supply run with Garvin had just saved these people from starving, so throwing food at them, even though they did save the town, was a bit odd. More odd, however, was the fact that he was planning to sent them off in the morning.

Kalina once again whispered something to Renee. “Garvin confirmed these undead kept coming back no matter how many his brother took out the day before. We've bought the village an extra day at best, we definitely didn't save it, so I don't think we can trust this mayor. Besides, if he's this public about wishing us gone, he probably has a pretty good hold on the situation here.”

With that said, Kalina figured she'd see if she could get more information, so she approached Garvin. Granted, she was a bit hesitant with his imposing brother also being there, but it didn't stop her. Upon checking that nobody was listening in on them, she got straight to business. “So what's the deal with this mayor of yours wishing to sent away potential allies in the midst of a crisis? Is it pride, corruption, foolishness or a combination of the three?”

 

[Vexumin]

Atiifa



Atiifa soon finishes his examination of the land beyond the gates from where he and his companions came from. Seems like things were getting interesting with those behind him. Firstly was the reveal that this new woman that had appeared was none other than Renee's sister. Atiifa kept his gaze considerate, but was afraid of what was to come, which he could almost predict. Renee began to introduce them, at first starting with Gawain. She introduced him as normal, 'the skeleton knight Gawain'. Atiifa was ready for a simple introduction as well, that is until he heard Renee's words.

And my little pet here, Atiifa. So cute I could cuddle with him and feel better! " Renee almost squealed

It was one word, but one word that violated him almost entirely. "Pet." As he heard this word escape Renee's lips, something inside the small beasts mind screamed at him. It wasn't like him to experience such raw rage from a simple word. When he was human, if someone were to call him their pet, not that such a thing would have ever happened in his old world, he might have just shrugged it off. Big deal, right? It's not like it was true. However, this time, it was not himself that was roaring in his own head, or maybe it was? It was difficult to tell.

Ever since he saw that new title appear among his acquired titles, the [Cuddly] title, he made sure to keep it as far back in his page as possible. That title would hopefully rot away with time. At least that's what he hoped would happen. However, it seems that no matter how he ignores it, it'll still haunt him so long as he looked as he did.

Kalian kneeled down in front of Atiifa to give him a gentle head-pat right between the horns. Listening to Renee's description of Atiifa, Kalina couldn't help herself from making a remark. “Oh my, aren't you a good boy.” Thanks to Renee's description, she wasn't even realising she was dealing with a fully intelligent being and thought of him more as a well-trained magical dog.

It is when he is touched that something within him cracks, threatening to break altogether and unleash something he knew he was going to regret. Even as the womans hand gently pat his head, he kept his hidden expression deathly cold. "NO!!!" His voice shouts in his head, though deeper and more malevolent. This was not going to be his new life, seen as a pet. Never. Despite the anger, Atiifa managed to maintain his composure, gently raising a hand to brush away the hand of Renee's sister. "Kalina, was it?" Atiifa asks. "I am no ones pet. I am their travelling companion." He kept it short and to the point, for going any further might just see sprinklings of whatever the voice was leak through. The anger.

To take his mind away from the disturbance, he turned to pay some attention to the others about them for a moment. His attention locks onto the large metal warrior.

"Witch, you are not the first of your kind I have faced and you shan't be the last. Pray you are not as twisted as your sisters lest I strike you down as well."

This man... thing... whatever he or it is, seems far too aggressive for his own good. So keen on handling things on his own. Stubborn might just be an appropriate word for it. Despite the condescending nature of his relationship with Renee, he did not enjoy the warriors attitude with his comrade. There was no reason for it. This warrior was just emotional. "Leave her alone," Atiifa says to him briefly before his attention shifts to the Mayor.

" Enjoy yourselves for the night and please, make yourself at home, heroes. I'll even see you off myself in the morning. " Dovus turned around and walked away from the group. One of the militia had placed a box on the ground for Dovus as he stood up on it, those sensitive to magic would feel the great magic coming from Dovus. Atiifa would be able to feel its presence and it was powerful.

As Atiifa felt this off aura about the mayor, he could feel something occur almost instinctually. He had felt it once or twice before. It was as if he was trying to look closer at certain things, but this time his eyes seemed to grow even keener as he stared the mayor down. It was a skill that he possessed. It really put strain on his eyes when the spell tried to activate on its own accord, but this time he didn't seem to be able to prevent it. To those observing Atiifa, they would see his green eyes shift. They took on the likeness of two glowing vortexes, consuming whatever information they could gleam from what he stared at. That was his Appraisal skill at work. Even as the mayor had sought to depart, he still observed, as if he could not stop.

 

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
Interactions: Skyhunter Vexumin EMIYAman Elvario


As he took a seat, Gawain found himself on the receiving end of a scolding from his companion. While she was exaggerating a bit about what was likely to happen him it did have a bit of an effect. It made him think back into the memories of the past, when was the last time had someone scolded him? Anyone who had been around him had either feared, hated him, or earned their paycheck from him. No one had the back bone to stand up and tell scold him... actually it was something different. No one had been around who cared to scold him. Not even little Luca's parents had cared enough, yet here the first person in this world he had met was dumb enough to scold a dead man about dying.

Gawain was mildly surprised by Kalina's introduction as Renee's sister and the witch practically jumping the other woman, but his face did not show it. Part of the perks of having a skull instead of an actual face. Gawain gave Kalina a half bow from his seated position, "Apologies accepted Miss Kalina. I am the wandering knight Gawain, a pleasure to meet you." as the focus turned back away from him Gawain chuckled lightly. The presence of Renee's sister meant some kind of trouble was brewing. Most likely it would be slightly ridiculous and mildly entertaining was going to happen soon.

When the attention was turned on Gawain he watched as the two fawned over the little Atiifa. He was sure that Renee had meant the pet part jokingly, probably. Even to the skeleton it was starting to be noticeable that the little furball was starting to get uncomfortable. As to how uncomfortable he was Gawain had no way to tell. The short rebuttle and expression by Atiifa would hopefully be enough to settle the matter for now.

There wasn't time for anything else to really happen before the mayor approached. His little gesture of gratitude felt rather rushed and forced. The fact that the mayor implied that they would be leaving in the morning made the situation even sketchier. It was something that the two sisters obliviously picked up on. Pushing himself Gawain murmured "Reminds me a bit of Luca". Once more on his feet Gawain looked between the two sisters and Atiifa, giving the strange armor a side long glance. "I imagine that some of us would need some rest. Why don't we take a break for a bit and plan our next move?"

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara​

Interactions: Dante Verren Skyhunter Elvario Vexumin

​

The eclectic group made for quite the sight. Each of them possessed rather strong wills, the Witch especially so. Kurikara felt his choice of words had been the right ones, at first, the Witched he knew of were more force of nature than women. They were often skewed mentally and as such coming at them with anything but absolute words or determination would lead to trouble. They preyed on the vulnerable and would lash out at the slightest signs of weakness, at times they could even be cold engines of logic which were almost worse than their more chaotic peers. In summation this... Women was unlike any Witch he had seen before in that she was surprisingly put together. This would be, difficult for him. Unfortunately her words rang true even he could not save this village not in this state. He did not doubt that even she could strike him down if given the chance. The mission parameters could not be achieved without their help, he would have to settle. Though... what did she mean by "cool"?

It seemed the Witch was the head of their party, as no sooner than she had been called into question the women who she had been speaking to came to her defense. She seemed rather perturbed. The magical beast gave its own words but they were brief and controlled. Kurikara had no idea what the creature may be and anything he could not understand was a threat. Yet, so long as they wished this village no harm then nothing more was needed.

The man known as Dovus made a brief announcement seemingly in gratitude to those who helped protect the village. It seemed Dovus had nothing to say which would affects mission parameters. So Kurikara simply stopped listening. He turned back to the party saying nothing. He gives them all a once over taking in what he could about them. Kurikara then walks to the wall barring the village from the outside, and waits.

 

[Skyhunter]

Within the confines of Kananto...



Renee Nyx



The witch was smiling about how confident Atiifa was about not being a pet, it made her proud of her pet to stand up for himself! She also knelt down beside Atiifa and hugged the small beast, " Why are you so adorable when you stand up for yourself! " She let the small beast go and stood up when Kalina left to go talk to her 'boyfriend.' Renee could see that the small beast was staring at Dovus as he was preaching to the townsfolk, each of them looked mesmerized by his talks and speeches. " What are you looking at, Atiifa? " Renee asked. A screen would pop up in front of Atiifa with hardly any information but an item name, the rest of the information was blanked out and there was no image of the item. Renee could feel the pull of this power too now.

Talisman of the Lamented

This would tell Atiifa that this item was powerful and a higher grade than his skill would allow him to see. " Whoa... " Renee commented quietly, her eyes were wide as she was staring at her own screen, looking up at the Mayor. She had used her appraisal skill as well. " He has a very powerful heirloom... " Renee whispered as she turned to Atiifa, her eyes were wide with that crazed look again that was devoid of all life. " We have to get our hands on what he has. " She whispered in a very disturbing way.

Hearing Gawain say they should take a break, she was immediately in his face, grabbing his shoulders. " No. " Renee whispered staring into where his eyes used to be at, her head twisted to look at Dovus, the mayor that continued to give speeches to the villagers of Kananto. " We need that talisman, Gawain. It could help end this reanimated dead problem. " While what she said would help the people of this village, it sounded like she wanted it for her own use. " Do you think you could get the talisman away from him? " She asked looking back to skeleton, her hands still on the skeleton's shoulders and she grew closer to him, she was desperate to have this talisman.

Gawain would still feel compelled to go to Dovus, could this be the talisman at work?

By the front gates...



As Kalina would make her way to front gates where Garvin was talking to his large brother who had his arms crossed. The smaller hunter turned and pointed at Dovus, " How can you work for that bastard, Garrett? You follow his every command like he owes you. " Garvin explained, Garrett stared at his smaller brother, axe stuck in the ground while he loomed over his brother. Garrett's face couldn't be seen behind that executioner helmet/hood he wore.



" He's a snake and you know it, Garrett. " Garvin obviously had no love for Dovus, Garrett growled under his hood and leaned into his brother. " You were gone for two weeks while i defended this town by myself till today. Me. By myself. Out there, alone. " Garrett explained. " You never came to help, you hung out in the forests like a coward. I saw you out there while I cut every dead body down. " Garrett spoke in a very rough voice. Garvin gritted his teeth, " I needed an opportunity to get these supplies here! And now that they're here, he's just giving them out to everyone without a second thought? He's not a good leader, he will doom this village. " Garrett huffed at Garvin's explanation. " He's kept us alive since the dead awake at night. While you were gone. " The two continued to go back and forth until Kalina finally came to Garvin's side.

As Kalina asked her question, Garvin turned to his larger brother who was listening. " See? He's trying to get our allies to leave, acting like the problem has been solved. He's hiding something, Garrett, this problem is far from solved. We've only made the dead retreat. You've seen that fog at this time of night. And now it's not appearing? What does that tell you? " Garvin asked his brother. Garrett didn't have any words for his smaller brother. His moved turned over to the walking figure that was Kurikara, Garrett picked up his axe and moved it in front of Kurikara to block him from moving further. Moving from the two he moved in front of Kurikara. " Where are you going? " He asked the smaller figure, " We haven't concluded our duel. " The executioner stated.

Garvin sighed as his brother tried to start another fight as he turned to Kalina, " I don't know why he is trying to get you, your sister, and her companions to leave. The situation is far from over, be careful around Dovus. Something strange is amiss, and it ain't just the dead. " Garvin explained to Kalina, she would soon begin to feel the pull to go to Dovus. Something would compel her to follow the mayor and listen to him. But this feeling could be resisted but would feel similar to headache, she can ignore it but it will still there to annoy and pester Kalina.

Then Garrett would stop pestering Kurikara and turn towards the closed gates like something was there, he quickly walked from Kurikara, " Follow me, white warrior. " The executioner commanded as he looked pass the gates through a slit in the gates, " Uh... Garrett. " A guard above him would call. " A... Horseman is here. " As Kurikara would look through the slit in the wooden gates, the two would see a horseman strolling towards the village from where the fog was at. Upon further inspection, this horseman and horse were... Rotten. They were undead, animated.



" Kurikara, what a strange name... " Garrett muttered the last words quietly. " I haven't seen this one just yet. You ready to help me fight? " Garrett asked as he began to open the gates himself, turning to look at a guard by the gate, the guard immediately knew what to do next. Garrett then pulled open the gates and walked on out carrying his axe as this lone warrior on horseback waited while holding a longsword and wore what looked like some sort of ancient armor.

Mentions: Elvario Vexumin Dante Verren EMIYAman

 

[Elvario]

Kalina Chivernu
​

Interactions: -

Kalina was visibly a bit startled when Atiifa spoke up, not expecting the 'pet' to be capable of speech. After pulling her hand away, she glared at Renee who'd misled her into thinking the creature was a mere pet. She also made a mental note that she might need to discuss it with Renee later, or at the very least that she'd need to be a bit more careful about her own and Renee's judgement at the status of people, as between the skeleton knight and boggart, she'd made a bit of a fool of herself for thinking them both to be far lesser beings than they were. At least the skeleton accepted her apology. She'd apologise to the boggar later.

For now, she had a more present issue at hand. She could hear the two brothers argue from a distance. She thought Garvin to be a bit of a stubborn fool, but she clearly hadn't been introduced to Garret yet. The fact that Garret merely wandered off when presented with an argument he couldn't reply too was enough to make her blood boil a little, weren't it for the fact that she was a cold-blooded vampire and that most of the blood running through her veins wasn't even her own. At the very least one of the two brothers agreed with her that the mayor was suspicious as all hell.

Whether it was by luck or design, an opportunity presented itself pretty soon. She could hear Garret being called away, along with the white knight, to fight some new threat. She turned to Garvin. “You're right, I don't like this at all. The fact that I'm feeling a weird pull to obey him makes it even worse. It's giving me a headache.” She grimaced. “Would you be ask kind as to point out the mayor's house and then go and fetch him to go take a look at whatever Garret is fighting? I'd like to go take a look around his house and it seems like an excellent distraction just presented itself.”

She wasn't planning to take it slow with this one, as the magic pull had made her oddly agitated. Surely the mayor would have something stashed away somewhere that would incriminate him, she just needed the time to go look for it. Regardless of whether or not Garvin cooperated, she would wait for a moment to slowly vanish into the shadows (stealth E) and make her way towards the mayor's house. She debated informing the others, but she figured that, for the moment being, acting independent would avoid drawing attention to her. She'd just take a quick look around his house and report her findings later, or such was the plan at least.

 

[Vexumin]

Atiifa



The beast, as he is embraced, still tackling the anger of whatever force was lashing out from within, works hard to not incanting. It is as if his words did not reach Renee at all. His fingers drip shadow as he was ready to raise No Mans Land around him, this time not letting the witch remain safe in his space. He is in part thankful that Appraisal took the reins when it did, because he was prepared to cast the spell and it activating before him prevented him from doing something he may regret.

He wiggles his arms between himself and Renee before forcefully separating them. "From human to beast, now reduced to a pet. This is not what I signed up for," he says as he takes steps away from Renee. He started to develop more of an appreciation for Kalina. When Atiifa spoke, the woman actually seemed to regret treating him as she had. She was reasonable when it came to treating Atiifa. It was a respect for his existence. Meanwhile, even after his announcing that he was not a pet, Renee continued to treat him as something lesser than herself.

He shakes his head. He paid little attention to the mayor now, too bothered to devote his attention fully to the item that he saw on the mayors person. 'Let the others deal with it', he thought to himself. For now, he wanted to explore this town. This walled sanctuary against the undead forces that gathered beyond the gates. From the shouting he could hear, there was only a horseman out there. Whoever they were, it was not Atiifa's problem. He had made it into the town, the goal of the group from the beginning. For now, he wanted to walk on his own for a little while, unless it was interrupted by another.

He needed to get away from all of the touchy humans he has encountered thus far. He questioned when they would be able to leave. The mayor seemed keen on having them all go away. Knowing what he does from his old life, this may just turn into a whole Scooby-Doo situation. "I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids," Atiifa quoted before snickering. That may be how this all turns out. His allies seemed keen on playing the hero roles, but for some reason he had no interest playing the hero. However, maybe he would have his uses sooner or later. For now though, he wanted to explore.

 

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
Interactions: Skyhunter Vexumin


Despite the fact that Renee was right infront of him, shaking his shoulders, and staring into his empty eye sockets, the skeleton was only have paying attention. Holding her gaze he sighed internally and nodded his skull. "Fine I will do what I can." He wasn't sure why she was so desperate about getting that talisman or whatever it was. If anything he got the feeling that this was more personal rather then her trying to get it away from the mayor to save the people. Still he felt a little off a strange pull over to the mayor. Was the mayor just that charismatic? Most likely not, but there was always the possibility. Usually those up to rather nefarious deeds were the most charismatic people. It's how they got others to follow them or look past what they did.

Lightly grabbing Renee's arms he moved her hands off of him before letting go. "I will follow the mayor and see what he is up to. You Mrs. Renee need rest," he said, adding a bit more focus on the part about her needing rest. "You also need to speak with Atiifa. It was your idea to originally have him join us. I happen to like our traveling group, and would rather not see anymore infighting. Now if you will excuse me." Gawain finished speaking and turned to head off in pursuit of the mayor. What ever was going on he would get to the source of it, that and whatever this strange pull was made him want to leave in a hurry.

 

[Skyhunter]

(Skipping shiro this round, had plenty of time to reply while I'm been working a busy schedule.)

Weather - Raining

Within the confines of Kananto...

Garvin watched his brother walk back out into the fray of battle with the white armor behind him, the large beast of a man has always enjoyed battle and pretty good at killing. He sighed sadly, it was perhaps all his brother knew. Turning to Kalina as she explained about feeling a headache and a certain pull towards the old man. Garvin narrowed his eyes suspiciously at the mayor as he kept on going on and on to these people about how 'helpless' they were but that with him leading them. He would lead them to salvation. Garvin looked to Kalina again then pointed to a rather nicer looking house that stood taller than all the others. It was colored a dark green with bricks. " That's his place. There may be security there, outside and in. So watch your step. " Garvin warned as he walked away from Kalina heading towards the mayor and group of people. He then remembered a important detail and turned to Kalina but she had already vanished. " Shit. " He grumbled then continued to walk towards the mayor and people.

Garvin was able to get their attention and inform everyone that Garret and Kurikara had left to go outside the walls to deal with a new threat, this had everyone startled and they immediately headed for the walls, leaving the Mayor there with a look of anger towards Garvin, who was smiling at Dovus. Even the guards left to see this new threat, leaving Dovus alone on his soap box. He stepped off his box and disappeared within the crowd of people.

At Dovus' place...



As Kalina approached Dovus' manor, she would see that there was only a couple of militiamen in front of the gates, patrolling around, looking around for any sign of people. There wasn't much security here, mainly because many of the citizens liked the mayor and would stay away from his manor. There was many ways Kalina could take, she could go towards the front pass the guards, up vines to the top or even around to the back. She would have many opportunities to find her way around. If she would go through the front she would find the two guards but they would see her because of her cloaking. But the front door would be locked and couldn't be accessed.

Towards the top and getting onto the foliage that grew on the side of the house, she would be able to climb onto the vine and towards the top, up the top she would be lead to a balcony, this balcony looked like it lead to some sort of quarters of the mayor's manor. The door would be locked but the doors were made of glass, if she wanted she could break on through. Inside she would see a very nice bed and desk with a very fancy decor about the room. There was papers on the desk and some sort of jewelry on the paper.

If Kalina went through the back, she would see a sleeping guard on the back porch resting in a chair, he was snoring loudly and appeared to be the only one here. The door he was guarding could have been locked or unlocked but he most likely had a key on him.

How Kalina wanted to go about this was all up to her. She had options.

Back towards town...

Atiifa would get through the mob of villagers getting to the gates to see what was happening there. He would make his way farther into town and see how decrypted it has gotten. It was a depressing sight to see. The ground underneath has been turned to mud thanks to the rain that was coming down. Atiifa would be able to study his surroundings and see that these people were acting very strange, their buildings were taken care of and they were acting like fools, following this one man blindly.



As Atiifa explored, he would see movement around the top of a porch with a sign that read North's Best on it. Sounded like a tavern. On the porch, the figure turned to see Atiifa as he walked. " What the? WHOA! " it sounded like a child, the small figure came walking to the edge of the porch and stared at Atiifa. " What are you? Some kind of troll? " he asked, the beast would be able to see the kid clearly now. " You look strange? But strange things has been happening, even the adults have been acting strange. " the kid commented.

Renee was still acting dramatic as she began to slide off of Gawain, acting like a child really. Until he said he would get her the amulet and she stood straight up onto her feet smiling at the skeleton. " Really? Oh, thank you, sir skeleton. Thank you... " Renee was back to her normal self. If Gawain had looked, he would see that the mayor had disappeared from the crowd but his green robes stuck out like a sore thumb. He was walking away from the crowd, like he was running away. He would have to follow. Even if he lost sight of Dovus, Gawain would still feel where he went, like he knew his every step like a footprint in his head. It was a rather strange feeling for the undead.

" Here. A gift, my friend. " Renee said, " Will help you blend in with people. " She took a step back and pulled out her book. Opening it, a strange black figured loomed over Renee and Gawain, but people couldn't see it. But those red eyes, they stared into your soul. And it was looking at Gawain with hunger. " Alright. Here we go. " Renee's book floated in the air now as she stared at Gawain. " In the name of Madness, I cast this spell to deceive those. To change the appearance of one to another. " Renee whispered, she pointed at the skeleton as a strange red mixed with yellow orb was being created in Renee's hands. The shadow was lending Renee it's power. The orb flowed forward towards Gawain and made contact with him. Gawain would feel... A strange feeling, like he wasn't himself but was. A weird swept of shadows moved over his vision and Renee gasped, closing her book whilst the shadow disappeared with it. Renee put her book away and she walked up to the skeleton. " My oh my, you're quite handsome, knight. " Renee adjusted his armor for him smiling. " There. You should be able to blend in with the people now. They're too stupid anyway. " The witch gave a warm smile to the dead knight. If he would find a reflection like a mirror or a puddle, he would see that his skeleton face was replaced with a humans face. He had been changed. " Remember. This is only temporary and you have little time. " Renee stated while holding a finger up and moving it at Gawain like she was scolding the knight. (What he looks like is up to you, Dante Verren )

Outside the Gates of Kananto...



Garrett was holding his axe as this deathly figure sat before him, with Kurikara standing behind Garrett, he moved forward. Garrett dashed forward as the knight galloped forward, through the rain both opponents swung their weapons, steel met steel with a loud clang. This knight easily held its own against Garrett's strength with one arm and his wicked Longsword. This was no slouch. Quickly like a whirlwind, Garrett began swinging his axe like a madman, the knight on horseback blocked each attack quickly, taking no damage and barely moving as his horse stood its ground. Garrett swung for the horse but the axe was met with the blade and the horse moved away now. Moving in between both Kurikara and Garrett, the knight stared at Garrett and the horse looked at Kurikara. Almost like they were in sync.

Interactions: Elvario Vexumin Dante Verren EMIYAman

(If you have any questions. Let me know!)

 

[Elvario]

Kalina Chivernu
​

Interactions: -

The mayor's house was rather picturesque as if from a nice clay animation, which she could appreciate. She wasn't knowledgeable with regards to architecture, but she still knew a nice looking building from an ugly one and this one was definitely of the nice variety. She also figured that the size of his house was enough to see why he'd be trying to keep control over the townsfolk, as he had quite the place to lose if he'd ever be cast aside as the mayor.

She already decided to try to remain hidden previously, so she avoided a frontal confrontation. After all, she spotted a much more interesting manner of getting into this place; the vines along the house. After checking the timing of the guard's patrols around the house and either finding a blind spot or a time-frame during which they weren't around, she plotted her way into the house from the shadows outside. Once the opportunity presented itself, she rushed along the planned-out route and managed to get up there without being seen surprisingly smoothly.

Oddly enough, the balcony door she ended up in front of was locked. Who in their right mind locked their balcony door? Kalina figured the mayor was either very suspicious of the townsfolk or he had a great deal to lose from someone snooping through his house. The latter was all the more reason to proceed with what she was doing. The only question was; how? She didn't have any lock-picking talents whatsoever, nor did she possess any magical talents that could get her through. It didn't look like there were any open windows either and someone paranoid enough to lock their balcony door wasn't likely to make such a slip-up.

She figured breaking through the glass was a her best option, but she'd have to be very careful not to alert the guards. She took out her rapier and used the back-end of it to tap against the glass, trying to see if any particular spot was weaker or stronger than the rest of it without making too much sound just yet. If she could break just a bit of the glass near the lock, she might be able to unlock it by simply reaching through the hole in the glass. She took off her cloak and held it against the part of the window she intended to smash through, hoping to dampen the noise it'd make.

After that, it was a matter of shooting a quick prayer to whatever god or gods might favour the undead and give the window a quick and precise hit with the back-end of her rapier. She winced a little when it still made noise, holding her breath to hear if anyone or anything would react to it. After a few heartbeats, she realised nothing seemed to be moving around, so she'd likely gotten away with it. Putting back on her cloak and managing to open the door by reaching through (or using the same method to break more glass and going through the window itself if that wasn't possible), she eventually managed to make her way inside.

It felt like she instantly hit the jack-pot. Until she realised she wasn't here as a thief. The jewellery she spotted wasn't why she was here, even though the adrenaline rush had almost made her want to pocket it. Resisting that urge, she went through the other prize instead; the paperwork. She scanned through it to find anything that might incriminate the mayor or that might be of interest to what was happening in this town.

Unless she were to find the clues she needed instantly, she'd proceed to go through other parts of the room. Book-cases, chests, closets, drawers, under his pillow, under his mattress... She figured she had the time, so she silently and efficiently turned the room upside-down, although she did make sure to put everything back in place once she was done with it as good as possible. The only things she'd pocket were any documents that might incriminate the mayor, if she were to find such things to begin with.

 

[Vexumin]

Atiifa



Despite the poor condition of the place he had found himself in, Atiifa was pleased with it. It was at least a bit more quiet than the normal and he did not have anyone vying to cuddle him or talk down to him. He takes a deep breath of the air of this little section of town. Needless to say, the air smelled poorly, but he payed it little mind. Taking some time to look about the town, he did take notice of its extremely poor state. It was as if it was not being tended to or cared for at all. These people were killing themselves yet acting as if nothing was wrong. It was like a sickness was spreading through these streets. A sickness not of the body, but of the mind. Then, a voice called to him, pulling Atiifa from his thoughts.

" What the? WHOA! " it sounded like a child, the small figure came walking to the edge of the porch and stared at Atiifa. " What are you? Some kind of troll? " he asked, the beast would be able to see the kid clearly now. " You look strange? But strange things has been happening, even the adults have been acting strange. " the kid commented.

Atiifa turns his head to the balcony where a boy sat staring down at him. This was new. It was a human not calling him cute or actively trying to pet him, even if said human was at a bit of a distance from the creature at the moment. Hell, he was even mocked... at least, Atiifa thought it might have been an insult. Could have simply been genuine curiosity though. A troll. Huh. That was amusing. Atiifa looks to the boy once again.

The child had a point. There can only be a few reasons for the people to leave their home in such disrepair. Things were definitely strange, and these people were certainly acting strange as well. Atiifa thought back to the item he was able to find when appraising the mayors person. So far he could only see that being the right explaination. However, if everyone was under the effects of that items spell then why wasn't...

Atiifa's gaze hones in on the boy. "I have seen all of those people acting oddly. You seem to be just fine though. Acting completely normal. Think you can do me a favor? Answer a few questions and I'll tell you what I am. I will even let you see under my mask."

 

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
Interaction: Skyhunter


Gawain felt a bang of annoyance at the disappearance of the mayor. He had intended to track him down immediately yet it seemed Renee still needed a bit of attention. Her attitude towards what ever that amulet was that the mayor had was indeed like a childish obsesssion, but what happened next he could never expect. Renee casted magic on him, covering his face with shadowy magic. Once the spell was done Renee commented on how handsome he was. Apparently she had given him an illusionary face, and now was mocking him. Gawain mimicked a sigh as she adjusted his gear and told him about the spell limitation. "Thank you, I will keep the time limit in mind. " A nearby puddle caught his attention and he saw a glimpse of his illusionary face. It was the face of an adult male of course, rough thirty years of age with a clean shaven face. Brown eyes matched brown hair that was short in length. It wasn't the face of Luca, but it still felt off seeing human flesh on his own body once again.

As Renee finished her lesson Gawain would pull away in a quick pursuit of the mayor. While he no longer saw the green robes of nobility they were still easier to spot compared to the normal cloths of the villagers. Reaching the point where the mayor previously was he did not see any signs of where the mayor actually went, that meant he would have to rely on the pull. Focusing in on the feeling of need to reach the amulet, he let his body move on it own. It was a surreal feeling, where one's body moves with out the brain's direction. Hopefully this feeling would leave him through the villages streets leading him straight to the mayor.

 

[EMIYAman]

Kurikara​

Kurikara and Garrett had moved to engage the undead knight. It was obviously an aberration among the undead army the fact that it possessed armor, mount and weapon made it dangerous. Compared to the undead they had been facing this knight was in a league far above them. Kurikara and Garrett circled the creature. It merely stood and watched them the knight kept its empty husks of eyes of Garrett while the horse gazed intently at Kurikara. Kurikara, who had been been focusing on the knight was taken aback by the intelligence displayed by the creature. This wasn't a normal horse and this wasn't a fight against just the knight. Kurikaras previous users had faced many a creature and the undead were certainly a notable one, and while his memory of those time may be hazy he knew this was not a foe to be trifled with if they underestimated it even the two of them together would be no more.

As Kurikara did his best to study his enemy Garrett made his move. With that same reckless yet effective style Garrett swung his axe putting his full strength behind every swing. Yet despite his power his strikes were quickly rebuked, this surprised even Kurikara. In just a few moments Garretts wild charge had been negated and they were back in the stillness that precedes a fight. Garrett seemed perturbed to be repelled so easily but his body language showed both anger and excitement. Kurikara knew he would be hard pressed to reign Garretts battle mania in especially when he had his own issues to worry about. Instead he locked eyes with Garrett and nodded before joining him in a charge against the undead knight. With a swift dash he swung a wide slash at the knight intending to cleave rider and horse alike in a diagonal swing. In a shocking display of dexterity the horse shifted quickly and dodged his sword, Kurikara knew this wouldn't be so simple but he was far form ready for the horse rear up and quickly kick him in the chest knocking him back several feet. While Kurikaras strike had been intercepted Garrett had followed up with a strike of his own only for the rider to once again intervene and stop his strike with seemingly little effort. With the leverage it had the knight shoved Garrett away not even going for an attack. Kurikara soon found himself getting up from the ground with Garrett joining him on the dirt. Again they were back in their neutral position with nothing to show for it. Kurikara found himself growing frustrated HoW dARe ThiS monstER he wondered what they could do to deal it a decisive blow. He pondered for a moment before a idea came to mind, it wouldn't kill but probing its defenses would be valuable.

"Go." Kurikara spoke with his deep yet soft voice betraying no emotion. Garrett looked to him briefly before nodding and raising himself back up and charging once more at the knight. Kurikara followed behind but stayed slightly behind him, for now it seemed the knight was toying with them as evidence by the lack of fatal blows and its stoic stance. How long that would last though is uncertain and until they find a way to deal with it the threat the knights poses will remain more than they can handle. Garrett once again put his great strength behind his axe and swung in a downward slash meant to cleave them in two. The undead knight remained stoic until the last moment until it tensed. The knight raised his sword and blocked Garretts swing with his usual ease. This was when Kurikara dashed suddenly from the side of Garrett stabbing towards the knight in a mighty thrust. The knights sword was still blocking Garretts axe, but the horse was still in commission while it could not fully move out of the way due to the axe bearing them it was able to shift itself and thus its rider so that the sword thrust missed. Kurikaras sword hit empty air where his foe had once been the horse made a move to counterattack with another well placed kick, but this time he was ready for it. Kurikaras sword was clutched in a two handed grip and still thrust forward, and while his sword had been dodged it was still within range and Kurikaras skill and speed was enough to do this. Soon after his thrust had come to and end and the knight and steed made their swift counterattack Kurikara gripped his sword tight and swung his arms down in a quick sudden motion changing the direction of the sword swing cancelling out his previous momentum. His sword which had been thrust was now being swung directly toward the horse and rider. The riders arm which he was using to block Garrett and the horses neck were in his swords path. He decided to rely on its weight and his own speed for this maneuver in an effort to if not kill, disable the knight [Kishin-ryu] E (Penetrating F).

 

[Skyhunter]

Inside the Mayor's Manor...



As Kalina stood in front of the glass window's and broke a part of it with her cloak and rapier, there was little noise that made until the glass hit the ground. The area was pretty quiet besides the rain so it was hard to hear the glass but Kalina would have heard the guards talking below. " You hear something? " one guard asked the other. The other scoffed, " It's just the rain, now pipe down will you? Bad enough we have to guard a house no one will break into. And now we're out here getting wet. " the other complained. Kalina was in without anything going wrong.

Once in, there was noise that could he heard downstairs, people were talking and laughing. It seemed the mayor had a family of his own. The feeling of getting pulled to the mayor could be felt again, she could try her best to ignore it but it was eating away at her. When the feeling was shaken off, Kalina would see on the desk the paperwork, upon reading its content she would read.

It's been a couple of days since I obtained this amulet. Whatever it is. A very unique item, since I've had it in my possession people have been flocking to me more than usual... I wonder if this thing tempts people to do my will? My family has been acting like a family again, my wife has been faithful again. My children listen to me again. It's going well... But... My decisions... I had to trade four of my guards; Christian, Bernard, Lina, and Charlie... I didn't have a choice... They would have destroyed this town. I did what I had to do! But I don't think those undead were counting on me stealing this amulet, they want to TAKE my people? I'll take this strange looking jewelry. It has a strange hue to it. I get shivers when I wear it I feel cold and almost dead. I don't think this was a good idea.

Reading this, Kalina would have noticed this was written a couple days after guards were supposedly given away and that the side of it was ripped out of a journal, there could have been more that was written. But from what Garvin stated, it's been almost 3 weeks now. There had to be more notes somewhere. There was more to this than she initially realized.

As Kalina searched through the bookcase, she would feel that pull again. But this time it was stronger, she felt like she would have fallen over, like this pull was literally pulling her into the floor. It was stronger now? Was he getting closer? " Mommy! Daddy's down the street! He's almost home! " a child called throughout the house. There was racing up the stairs and stomping down the hallway as a little girl passed by the doorway, luckily for Kalina she wouldn't be seen as the girl was either too distracted or didn't register her presence. Either way, it was time for Kalina to leave. She had what she needed but she wouldn't have enough to time to search through everything. There could have been more here, and Kalina wouldn't likely be able to come back as the broken window would be a sign of a break-in. She could try to find more evidence but this will likely have her getting caught by the children, wife or even guards.

Outside the Mayor's Manor...

As Gawain made his way through the scared townsfolk, he would see guards following after where he felt this strange pull from. Making his way through, no one looked or said anything to Gawain as he passed by. The disguise was working efficiently, even the guards didn't say anything when they passed by him. Until one stopped seeing him. " Oi, Michael, where are you going? We're needed at the wall! You got better armor than us, looks like blacksmith Richard was holding out on us, ready up and get to the gates! " The guard ran by and towards the gates.

That was weird? Renee must have disguised Gawain as a guard down by the gates already, probably to buy him more time and give him access and privileges. Gawain would feel that pull again and now it was feeling worst the closer he got, as he followed after Dovus he would come to a alleyway that lead to a very nice brick house and he would see Dovus walking to his house accompanied by guards. One of the guards by the gates saw Gawain and turned, " Oi! Michael! Is that you? Why'd you come back? And why are you wearing old new armor. " Everyone turned to look at him, even the mayor. But when Dovus looked to Gawain, he had a sly smile on his face. " Hold on men. I think 'Michael' is here for me. " The pull was immense now, very strong. Gawain's head would be pounding, it felt like Dovus could already see through his disguise. Finally the headache died off quickly as he turned around. " Come on in, Michael. I think we should talk inside. " Was Gawain getting sloppy? Or did he know who he was already? Dovus headed on inside his nice house as the guards moved out of the way and stared at Gawain with suspicious eyes.

Near the inn called North's Best...

The child was looking at Atiifa as he spoke and looked very shocked. " Whoa!!! It can talk too! " the boy still stayed up on this small platform, he moved to the stairs slightly and poked his head out, " Sure little troll, I can answer some questions. I'ms real smart, mother said so before she started acting weird. What do you wanna know? " The child asked now moving into open view for Atiifa to see.



Outside the gates of Kananto...

As the executioner Garrett and living armor Kurikara battle this undead knight and aware animated horse, the rain came down heavier, the fog in the distance was closing in on them slowly as their bout against this freak of nature was coming to a close. The fight between the opponents raged on and quickly ended with the horse going down from their fight. The knight was able to get away from Kurikara's terrifying ability, but his ability stabbed through the horse with quick and deadly ease. The knight was knocked off after blocking with his weapon, which caused the knight to roll far away.

Rolling across the wet ground, it rose up rather quickly. Holding the sword in its hands as it raised it in a fighting pose, the sword had a hole stabbed through it and a hold stabbed through it's body. Kurikara was able to stab the knight too! But it looked like it almost did nothing besides kill it's horse. Taking one hand the undead pointed its open palm to its fallen companion and a strange purple glow came off the horse, like strings of wisps. The horse began to disintegrate and the wisps flew to the knight.



This undead knight let out a loud and heavy breath that sounded of death. Its undead veins glowed purple and where the hole was in its body had a bright purple coming from it.. Then almost immediately in Kurikara's HUD, he would see a health bar appear with the name. Last Harbinger of Bedlam. The Knight's eyes glowed a evil purple as it absorbed the last of it's companion and the fog was moving in, purple eyes could be seen coming within the fog. Then the bells began to ring, guards began to move to the walls, readying crossbows, readying the ballista towers. This was a mini boss fight.



Garrett looked to the fog then back, the eyes matched one another. " Kurikara. This thing is leading the fog. We need to kill it, we don't have a lot of time! The town will fall if we don't kill this thing. " Garrett readied his axe as this knight held his weapon in one hand and a purple moving orb in the other. It began walking towards them with the sound of death in the distance and heavy breathing coming from the knight. In a flash it sprung forward and swung its weapon with a purple wisp following. Garrett moved forward to block the attack, but was flung backwards in midair. There was a crackling sound of shrill screams that followed the wisp, sounding like horses and people mixed together. Just Kurikara's luck, activating a boss fight.

" What the hell!? " A yell came from the walls as a woman jumped off the rampart and over the wall, it was that witch! Renee saw what was unfolding here and began to make her way over, pulling her journal out as she stood from the fight but still ready to help. " What did you do! " Renee called as the fight now began. Anyone close to the fight would see the boss name appear in their HUD, but no one else was close enough...

Interactions: Elvario Dante Verren Vexumin EMIYAman

Got a lot happening in different places, don't be afraid to ask questions especially now

 

[Dante Verren]

Gawain
Interactions: Skyhunter Elvario


Gawain moved through the town following the ever-growing strength of the mysterious pull. He caught the eye of a few people as they passed by hi, but none payed to much attention to him at first. When the first group of guards commented on seeing him, he merely held up his hand and gave a simple "Fine be there soon." A more dismissive response then what he normally would give. He did not even really fully realize that the people had called him by the name Michael, perhaps Renee's magic had turned him into someone here rather then something new. His mind was to unfocused to dwell on thoughts like that. Instead he kept his focus on the pull as if it was a proverbial thread leading him through an ever increasingly hazy maze.

When Gawain finally caught up on the mayor his attention was focused entirely on the man. The guards barely registered in his mind. There words did not even reach his mind, instead he only focused the words of the mayor. The mayor's gesture to come and speak with him inside got the skeleton moving again. Walking past the guards he gave each one of them a glance but still did not pay to much attention any individual person. Instead he followed the mayor inside remaining quiet until the door closed. As soon as the door was closed Gawain would swerve his head to stare at the mayor. "Mr. Darvis, we need to have a chat." he was going to say more when the sound of running feet came down the hallway. Almost on a strange instinct his hand went to his sword and he took up a defensive stance before Darvis, but did not draw his sword quite yet.

 

[Elvario]

Kalina Chivernu
​

Interactions: -

A family. That was something Kalina hadn't accounted for. She'd been lucky enough that the guards hadn't caught her breaking the glass, so she didn't want to test her luck a second time. Even so, she had to blink a few times when she realized the mayor had the most juicy information laying out in the open. The journal page was the perfect confession of what he'd done. She didn't get enough time to search for the rest of the journal, sadly enough, as she heard a child racing up the stairs. To make matters worse, the annoying pull towards that amulet appeared again. Now that she knew what it was, she was even more alert to resist it, but that didn't make the experience any more pleasant.

The mayor was clearly doubting his own actions and if he'd see the missing page, he would know that he'd been found out. Either it'd force him on the defensive, or it would make him come clean. Kalina wondered if he was still redeemable. However, now that she'd read the page, there was another thing she wondered about. The page mentioned jewellery, not 'amulet', which suggested the other things that had been atop the paper also did more than merely making someone look fancy and rich. She clicked her tongue and made up her mind. She was going to steal it after all. She quickly pocketed the journal page and jewellery, keeping it hidden and concealed. She wouldn't have a lot more time, but there was one more thing she wished to do. Using the mayor's own writing supplies, she quickly wrote down a short message.

Come clean while you can still do so on your own volition.

She'd have preferred writing a long and strongly worded letter, but feared she didn't have the time for it. Even so, giving the man a warning was only polite, wasn't it? Besides, the message would serve as a nice warning to the mayor, as now he'd know that whomever stole his jewellery also had something to leverage against him. From there, it was a manner of leaving in the same way she'd entered. Luckily enough, the guards and mayor were both distracted by one of their own, for whatever reason, so she had a relatively easy time sneaking away.

Now that she'd gotten out, she had several options. She wanted to find Renee and brag a bit about her success, but she knew that it might backfire. If the mayor were to panic, it would be easy to figure the newcomers had stolen his goods and he'd set the entire town up against them. She hoped the man wouldn't be as stupid, but she couldn't say for sure. She figured it was better to find Garvin first. If she'd get a better grip on the situation with what she'd gained, she'd have more to brag about later, after all.

Upon (hopefully) finding Garvin somewhere, she'd flash him a smile. “I hit the jackpot~” If they were in a private enough space, she'd take out the journal page and show it to Garvin. If not, she'd take him somewhere more private first. “I found this in his bedroom. It seems like your mayor has gotten himself into quite the predicament.” She clicked her tongue. “This would be enough to incriminate any man in normal circumstances, but if the people are still influenced by that amulet, it'll probably not be enough to break its spell over them. The fact that he surrendered four guards without any recompenses suggests he's got a very firm grip on the minds of people. I'm thinking we should get rid of the amulet first, then show everyone what's been going on and use this as the evidence...” There was one thing she wondered about. “Although, perhaps, some people that haven't been around it for long or that are particularly strong-willed might not be all that affected. It could get us some more allies if we find them out.”

Now that she was in the clear, she'd also take some time to study the jewellery she'd stolen. She was by no means an expert in it, but perhaps she could still make out something basic. Unless it looked dangerous, for whatever reason, she'd eventually shrug and decide to dive straight into it. “I found this other jewellery as well, atop the papers. It might also do something, or it might just be made to look fancy like most jewellery... Anyhow, I'm curious, so I'm going to put it on for a bit. Let me know if you feel anything change in your opinion towards me, I guess?” She wasn't sure how it was meant to work, so she just rolled with it and put on the jewellery. Life without a little risk was just going to be boring, after all.

 

[Vexumin]

Atiifa



Atiifa couldn't help but snicker as he was referred to as a little troll again. He wasn't sure what he was, but he knew it wasn't a troll. He felt like he was something otherworldly even for this world. He couldn't know for sure though until he saw creatures like him. Nonetheless, he didn't mind being called a troll. Better than being considered a pet. He was being treated with at least an appropriate amount of respect for another living being, and it was from a child of all people.

Atiifa raises a small hand so that he can rub at his chin in thought. He had plenty of questions, but what questions were the best to ask. "Hmm. What to ask first. Let's seeee... Ah, are all of the children like you? Are any other children acting funny like the adults?" He then got to thinking again and his mind wandered back to the mayor. "How long has that weird mayor been apart of this town? When did he become the mayor, if you can remember that?"

Atiifa tries to think of something else, but soon just breathes a sigh as he realizes that he's just been questioning the poor kid perhaps a bit too much. "Sorry... I am just a bit too curious about everything right now. So much going on. My name is Atiifa, but you can call me whatever you want. It's a pleasure to meet ya, kid."