Fantasy Tales of Raeligard

[RedArmyShogun]

Thea Schuerer
Location: Underground, Tylsen
​

With the girl agreeing to her proposal, Gaius was quick to offer in to join the advance as Cephilia offered a confirmation to Thea's earlier thoughts in the day on Cressey. Chiefly in regard to her spear being what it was. For someone that seemed to want to hide, she picked a weapon as valuable as it was noticeable. Or did she? Was it stolen, a gift, a heirloom? Either way it made her a person of some interest, Thea assuming she had reason for being here and now was not the time or place.

Grinning at the short girl's response Thea rolls her shoulders a bit, holding her arms upwards with elbows bent as she held the sword up and vertically. "Ha. Most are shorter than me, think nothing of it." She says in reply to the stare, giving a nod to affirm she would keep up. Turning her attention to Gaius to see if he were ready and then they were off with Cephilia in tow, she did not bother to look back, the goal and objective were ahead, thoughts of retreat and tomorrow could not be had, training slipped into her mind, taking over to carry her ahead. "Aurelia give us strength!"

Following behind Cressey she was a bit impressed with the speed of advance as they ran into the opening, with the earlier plan, Thea picks out targets, noticing Vivienne in the battle and an even more curious sight, dust settling as the two missing ones broke through the wall with one of the war hounds tied to webbing strands, her eyes quickly return to the task at hand. Viv seemed to be enjoying this, or was overjoyed to have help, but some how she very much doubted the later. There were more than a few men here, two were close to her. A board and a Sword and an Archer, minus the fox who was Goddess knew where, and the Spider, they had very limited options for ranged combat and Cressey and Cephilia were tasked with dealing with armored foes, wishing the smaller girl luck, Thea ran forward, closing the distance as she shifted her sword, rolling it with her elbows and shoulders into a shifting pattern as she closed in with the archer, swinging down towards his center of mass from above, she was immediately working her hands into a horizontal slash of the massive blade in advance of a dodge from the other, a two strike Combo.

"HA!" Letting out a battle cry, Thea was not held back in this cavern, she had room to actually fight with her massive Zweihander and seemed to lack any hesitance in fighting who was before her, repeated drilled movements, guilt, honor and faith putting aside her doubts as she aimed to kill who was before her.

Interactions: AnonyMouse King Crimson Kenshin772

 

[Kenshin772]

Gaius Karlings Kampfer
Location: Bandit Hideout.
With: RedArmyShogun Thea, EmperorsChosen Lucia, King Crimson Cressey, Thalia_Neko Hyss, AnonyMouse Cephilia.
GM Interaction: AnonyMouse , Reinhardt .
​

Cephilia's response got a short chortle out of Gaius, "No, I thought you meant cover as in slinging spells over our heads at any rangers the enemy may have." There was a bit of playful sarcasm in Gaius's rebuttal but as soon it came it left as the miniature lancer received her electrifying enchantment lighting the space the party occupied with a soft blue light. As Gaius had guessed back at the guild the girl's lance was made of Valgemian Mithril, a highly priced material that in Gaius's experience was mostly used by Nobles and high ranking battlemages back home. Gaius would have to catch the munchkin on her own at some point to pry a little bit as it wouldn't hurt for Valgemians to watch each others backs here in Raeligard.

All that however would have to wait as the Tiny Lancer began and finished her battle preparations taking off like a hunting dog chasing it's prey. Shortly after Thea followed in around the corner with Gaius on her heals, the cavern the party rushed into was large both in height and width Gaius noted as did Thea; as she rose her Zweihander high and let out a war cry as she barreled down on the ambushed bandit camp. Not missing his own cue Gaius split off to the right and his attention fell on a pair of figures standing in what appeared to be a new opening; Thal and Risax had made their way to the fight clearly in a fashion they were not ready for evident by the fact that Risax was in the front. With a clear and commanding voice Gaius shouted to the pair "Risax backup! Thal to the front!" with this Gaius adjusted his path the rest of his team's fighters had picked their targets and Viv had two of - wait three of the bandits on her. One of the bandits, a rogue by the look of it, was behind Viv; he was nursing what appeared to be a blunt force wound but was back in the fight.

With his sights set Gaius made his way through the right flank, flying past some coward who had glued himself to the wall of the cavern. Ignoring the coward Gaius cut inward and began his Duelist's Advance rapidly closing the distance to the rogue from his blind side as his hood had fallen over as he stood back up. Gaius knew better than to hope for a one hit wonder like he did with the hounds, for this foe he would need to aim to disable or disarm with this opener so he chose the rogue's left hand as the target of his first strike. If he failed his plan was to move back and begin his Riposte stance to keep his opponent at the length of his sword so he could at least keep the advantage of range.

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

Scene 15: Food For Thought...
Synopsis: Razul Dazzle finds himself... less than thrilled with recent developments...
Additional Cast: AnonyMouse (Falco, Cephilia) Topless (Sakura) EmperorsChosen (Lucia) @AnyoneElse

​

In the next minute or so, Razul only felt an overbearing sense of shame while keeping gaze with Cephilia. He'd acted in the heat of the moment; but was she still oblivious...? Regardless, she and some of the other guildmates left to join in on whatever was happening elsewhere in the sewers. And Razul could only still stand in place, catching his breath. What a change, he noticed, from his merry entrance with the three girls around his shoulder, to whatever this was.

As everything blurred around Razul, it was Lucia's hurried prodding that snapped him out of thought. Initially, he bore a look of confusion. "Why are you tapping—" The putrid other than the usual sewage then wafted, joined by noises beyond anything of Razul comprehended.

It only took one glance of the current scene for Razul to pale again; he shouldn't have questioned Lucia's swiftness.

He quietly nodded, wanting to join the elf far from Sakura and the cadaver. Instead, Razul only made it a few steps before putting a hand against the wall again.

What followed... Let's just say he lost his previous meal and some blood in one nasty retching.

Though brief as it was, he remained there for a bit, only with the puddle below him accompanying his gaze. It was all too much... Only one thought lingered on Razul's mind: Was she really meant for this...?

 

[EmperorsChosen]

Lucia Corinna Edelgarde​

Location: Skaven Sewers
​

After briefly checking on Razul, Lucia made an effort to catch up with the others. Razul at the very least wasn't so far back that they could not react to any need for aid now. Falco and Sakura—Well, Lucia was less than concerned with for the time being. Despite coming in a bit late comparatively, Lucia ran in a short bit after Gaius. Going by the screaming, the attack was commencing. Sure enough, Vivienne was down there already and so were Risax and Thal with another mutt. Interesting...

Regardless, she needed to pick a target quickly. Thea was assaulting the ranged, Gaius the Rogue, and Cressey seemed to be targeting the maul. Well, she did want a proper fight. Though, with how the day had went, this was now more so stress relief than excitement. Picking out the man wielding a sword and shield, the younger Caskarieth sprinted at him. It was a conventional equipment set. Hers less so. She needed to capitalize on that unorthodoxy; take control of the fight and keep it.

"Aw, it doesn't look like you have a partner~" She cooed with a voice trailed in mockery.

As she approached her opponent, Lucia predicted a bracing of the shield, preemptively lifting her leg and jumping her body forward to slam against it with a kick. She wasn't particularly large, so momentum was key to make the most of what weight she did have, especially against a barrier like this. Following up on the kick, Lucia slammed an armored fist against the bulwark's edge hoping the battering would open the shield enough to stab with her opposing, pointed hand. The man appeared older and to be taking more of a tactician's role. Thus, she would seek to keep him from being able to think too much while taking advantage of her younger and more spry physique.

Interactions: AnonyMouse AriAriAbabwa (Briefly)
Mentions: All mostly.

 

[Thalia_Neko]

Hysydice "Hyss" Maliss

Currently: in combat
Thinking: "Oh, you! Not another rogue! I will beat you! Just watch! See who the better shadow is!"

Location: sewers
Interacting: AnonyMouse
Mentions: others around


Peering in just behind her allies as they rushed forward, Hyss's eyes flicked around the cavern to take in any useful details pertaining to the skirmish at hand. She saw their adversaries, counting each one. An archer, a halberdier, a warhammer wielder, etc. There was also a subtle silvery glint from something on the ground. Something metallic, by its gleam in the gloomy cave. An eyesore to those with fastidious and discerning gazes. It was a shield. Now what was a shield doing laying in a seemingly normal cavern such as this? Her eyes flicked to each person. Whose was it? It didn't seem to be any of their enemies', after all, if it was, it wouldn't be discarded so haphazardly on the ground as it was, instead it would be wielded in such a way to defend from the imposing horse-woman. Was it Vivienne's? Hyss tried to recall, had she seen the centaur with it earlier?

There was even a rogue-like man behind the centaur. Bent over, gasping. He had obviously been kicked. But it hadn't been such a blow to end him immediately, despite the centaur's size and obvious power she held in those meaty legs. Hyss snickered beneath her mask. She could already see what his plan had been. Use the commotion of the battle to get into position -- sneak behind one's opponent while they were focused elsewhere, then strike somewhere vital. He had failed, obviously.

Hyss narrowed her eyes. She would not.

But as it were, her allies seemed to be quickly squaring off each with one of their enemies. Hyss couldn't really determine the best place to strike from here, or which she should target first. The archer was the likely choice -going for long range support when possible was pretty much the obvious way to win a battle. Then there was the one near the periphery. Slumped against the cavern wall. -What was up with him? Cowering? No way, right?

Her gaze lingered briefly. He looked weak, and an easy target. A ruse? Could that be on purpose to make one lower their guard and draw them into a trap?

She decided -battles were won on split decisions after all. "Madam Yvarra!" She called, loathing to do so, as she sprang out. The girl's small stature worked in her favor as she darted across the cavern, leapt, skid and scooped up the shield. From practice with her glaive she quickly threw it over to the centaur with a precise spin. The throw and trajectory seemed so natural. It cut through the air with enough spin and pressure to deter being interfered with -lest one take a nasty cut from the rigid edge of the shield.

She hated calling like that, and perhaps she shouldn't have, but she wanted to be sure Vivienne noticed. Otherwise it would almost have been just another attack coming the centaur's way that she would have to deal with. If they were more familiar with one another... then, likely Hyss would've thrown it back silently, trusting each other to perform in the midst of combat. But alas, they weren't. She hoped Vivienne could catch her throw -- realizing after the fact that she had assumed she would. She also hoped Vivienne needed her shield, otherwise this move would've been pointless.

In one fluid motion after her throw, Hyss dove and flicked her hood back up, using her speed to run behind one of her bigger allies. Using her speedy momentum and the confusion to be lost by their enemies' once more. For her shouting like that likely would've drawn attention her way, but also possibly would've added even more confusion to the scene. Dipping behind her ally, Hyss, using her dark cloak, disappeared into the natural shadows of the cavern. She would outperform that other rogue. Show him!​

 

[AnonyMouse]

Cephilia Valdergeuse​

Location: Subterranean Cavern​

When Cressey initiated the charge, the adventurers surged through the narrow passage before pouring into the cavern and breaking off to face their chosen targets. Cephilia followed, her keen gaze quickly drinking in the situation and analyzing the data. Viv was defending the exit, her imposing form blocking nearly the entire opening. She had the attention of six enemies: one ranged; one mage, demoralized; one rogue, winded; one with shield, hesitating; one with polearm; and one heavily armored, toward whom Cressey steered her electrified lance. Good girl, Cephilia thought as she veered off to chase Thea, while Gaius forked to the right, toward Viv and the rogue. Lucia and Hyss poured in behind them, evening the numbers. As if that were not enough, Risax and Thal burst through the wall at nearly the same time, tipping the odds in Kriegslowe's favor!

While luck was certainly not something Cephilia liked to rely on, or expect, she could hardly complain about the timing of this. Everything was coming together beautifully. After such a long, miserable afternoon, she was pleased to see the pieces beginning to fall into place. Her only complaint was that she couldn't take credit for such a well-timed strike.

Each Kriegslowen chose their target and, within seconds, all but the mage and the halberd wielder found themselves occupied. And the former looked as if he wanted no part of this. We have the advantage. We can take them alive, if everyone keeps their heads on straight, Cephilia thought as her pace slowed, her steps became more careful and measured The knightess bellowed her war cry. Despite her analytical mind still reading the room, Cephilia's eyes were on Thea's adversary as the tall girl raised her sword for a mighty blow.

Speed archer, Cephilia thought, noting the way the man kept a fistful of arrows pinched between his fingers, for rapid loading and firing. He didn't swap weapons, even as a foe beared down upon him. They needed to neutralize this one quickly.

The Cascarieth readied her rapier as she moved to Thea's distant left, giving the zweihander a wide berth. His archery wasn't the only thing speedy about him; the man rolled aside and away, skillfully avoiding the massive blade's downward stroke and distancing himself from Cephilia. But even the greenest recruit could tell Schuerer was setting up a combo. His roll transitioned to a knee and he instantly nocked an arrow, probably hoping to get off a covering shot or two before the follow-up, but the blade came faster than anticipated, forcing him to attempt to parry with his bow's shaft. Big mistake.

His weapon shattered with a thunderous crack and a shower of splinters, but likely saved his life. He fell back, but quickly found his feet, while unsheathing a shortsword from behind. Seeing an opening, Cephilia quick-stepped forward, using the full reach of her rapier to jab at the man, using what appeared to be a fairly orthodox fencing style. He swatted aside her thin blade, at which point the Caskarieth danced back, lifting her clockwork rapier overhead as if about to bring it down in a powerful vertical strike -- definitely not something one does with a slender rapier blade.

Mid-stroke, she squeezed and held the weapon's trigger. Its blade elongated, separating into sharp fragments held by coiled steel cable. Its weighted tip carried it outward, to tremendous range. The bandit blocked, but the bladed whip came down upon him, lacerating his arm and shoulder as she drew it back. He grunted in pain as crimson bloomed where the metal serpent had bitten him. Cephilia recalled the whip with a graceful turn of her wrist and caught it with her gauntleted left hand, holding it taut, while meticulously twirling the weighted end, keeping it in constant motion, and ready to launch once more, if needed.

The entire exchange happened in mere seconds. Satisfied that she had done enough, Cephilia backstepped, to give Schuerer ample space to finish what was started. "Alive, if you will," she said to Thea, though the way the man glared at them suggested he had other plans. Despite the blood, he still held fast to his weapon and the unadulterated hatred in his eyes indicated wounding him may have only strengthened his resolve.
Interaction(s): RedArmyShogun (Thea)
Mentions: Kenshin772 (Gaius) / Thalia_Neko (Hyss) / King Crimson (Cressey) / Huntertabbysandshark3 (Risax) / AI10100 (Thal) / EmperorsChosen (Lucia)

Vivienne Yvarra​

Location: Subterranean Cavern​

When Viv heard her name shouted by the small beastkin, her equine ears perked up. Watching the girl use her full strength to fling the shield was... adorable, in a way. Nevertheless, the throw was surprisingly accurate, despite the effort required. Unfortunately, Viv's hands were already full, with a shield on her right side and the greatsword on her left. The best she could do, on such short notice, was swat the incoming shield down with her greatsword, so it hit the ground at her hooves. "Much appreciated, dear," she called to the beaskin as Hyss disappeared into the shadows along the chamber's perimeter.

By now, Cressey was engaging the armored man before her and Lucia had arrived to tangle with the older one, who appeared to be their leader. She opened her assault by kicking his round shield, to which the man hunkered down and absorbed the blow before striking back with his gladius. He wore an identical sword on his back and likely knew how to dual wield them, if the shield became a liability. Against a brawler-type opponent, especially one with more youth and stamina, tiring him out and forcing him to discard the heavy metal disc might be a viable strategy. And Lady Edelgarde wore enough armor than she could reasonably defend against his blade, while continuing to lay into the shield. Satisfied that the Caskarieth could handle him, Viv turned her attention elsewhere.

The centaur planted her towering greatsword in the earth, like a flag indicating she would not be moved. With a swift stomp of her hoof, she flipped the kite shield up, and caught it, enjoying the comfort of its straps in her hands. The man with the halberd still hadn't made his move, paralyzed by the chaos, but she hadn't forgotten about him. Due to the nature of his weapon, he could easily leap to the aid of any of his allies, ending someone's life in one cruel jab. He seemed torn on who to save or if he should just surrender or flee. But one thing was clear: not once did he look at the centaur. She had already shown him the futility of that.

"Excuse me, dear. We done?," Viv said and his eyes instantly darted to her. He aimed the halberd at her. His stance firmed, but his eyes betrayed him. His will to fight was slipping away. Viv stood her ground, as she had done all of her life. "Would you rather rest your head in my bosom or at my feet? Peace awaits, either way. What say you, friend?" the centaur said softly. Her kind eyes gazed at him as if he were the only person in the world.

But he wasn't. In her peripheral vision, she spied Gaius rapidly closing in on the rogue who had attempted to catch her unawares. The latter was still slightly bent over, with a dagger in each hand, but his left clutched his abdomen where she had struck him with the broadside of her greatsword. It seemed Gaius had the drop on him, but the bandit turned at the last moment, probably hearing the other man's footsteps. As he spun to face his attacker, he threw the dagger in his left hand and used that hand to quickly throw back his hood before backpedaling away, throwing the other dagger, too. A moment later, the bandit was in full retreat, moving toward where Thal and Risax had burst through.

Damn, Viv thought, biting her lip as the steely-eyed rogue pulled another secret knife from the folds of his tunic. She was defending the primary exit, but hadn't considered someone might try to get out through the new opening the arachnid and orc had created. He was just one man, headed for two much larger foes, and with Gaius in tow. But the determination in his eyes made it clear he was ready to get out or die trying.
Interaction(s): Kenshin772 (Gaius) / Thalia_Neko (Hyss)
Mentions: King Crimson (Cressey) / Huntertabbysandshark3 (Risax) / AI10100 (Thal) / EmperorsChosen (Lucia)

 

[Kenshin772]

Gaius Karlings Kampfer
Location: Bandit Hideout.
With: RedArmyShogun Thea, EmperorsChosen Lucia, King Crimson Cressey, Thalia_Neko Hyss, AI10100 Thal, Huntertabbysandshark3 Risax, AnonyMouse Cephilia/Vivienne.
GM Interaction: AnonyMouse , Reinhardt .
​

At the last possible second of Gaius's charge the old Rogue noticed Gaius and in a bid of desperation threw the dagger in his left hand blindly. His ears were sharp for one seemingly as old as he was as the dagger was at least on target but was far to low to hit anything vital, the spin was also slow enough to be predictable. Staggering his advance Gaius made a quick back step allowing the first dagger to gain an extra half spin causing it to semi-harmlessly to thump into Gaius's Scale Mail at the hilt. Before the blade even hit the ground Gaius redoubled his advance on the retreating rogue, the second knife throw came shortly this one with a much better spin than the first and a higher position. "Annoying" Gaius thought as he quickly flicked his wrist deflecting the dagger off to his right.

This would normally be when an opponent would take advantage of Gaius closing in for a strike thinking he was distracted by the now ineffective dagger throw. Not this one though, he knew he wouldn't last against Gaius alone and was rapidly backpaddling in full retreat mode. What his thoughts were as the exit he was rushing for was being blocked by Thal and Risax were unknown but Gaius wasn't going to let him reach them. Once again with a full speed Duelist's Advance Gaius closed the gap striking for the Rogues right shoulder.

With a lightning fast response the Rogue brought up his hidden dagger in an attempt to push Gaius's thrust off course; he was half successful, as Gaius's blade bit into the leather padding covering his shoulder digging through and up tearing some skin with it. This was his chance though, he could take out this opponent he'd be free and clear to bolt through the other two at the hole. Without a second thought the Rogue flicked his wrist and readied to thrust his dagger forward into the other man's chest; he did not expect the man's follow up from the thrust however.

Using the momentum from the Rogue's pushing block Gaius allowed his blade to rise above his opponent's view, then he quickly turned that momentum into a swing. Rolling his wrist in a semi-circle Gaius seamlessly carried the blade into his next attack catching the rogue off guard as he brought the blade horizontally into the rogue's face cutting into the man's eye just enough to blind him before he could backpedal.

A slew of curses filled the cavern as the rogue clutched at his eye with his unoccupied hand. He looked up at Gaius with his good eye as Gaius returned to his stance anger filling his mind and clouding his judgment. In another act of desperation and anger the rogue brought his dagger up to fight thinking "If I can't get away I'll at least kill this fucker"

The ensuing fight was at best pitiful the rogue's attacks were swift and precise but Gaius's Parries were faster as were his ripostes. before to long the rogue was covered in many shallow cuts mostly on his right side as Gaius took advantage of his now permanent blindside. Anyone who watched Gaius however was treated to a display of excellent footwork, parries, and strikes. To most these moves seem to be a concoction of Gaius's own self taught style however to anyone who was knowledgeable about The Empire's martial arts things were slightly different. Gaius's footwork and stance were without a doubt something taught to duelists from the Empire mostly Nobles and officers who could afford the instructor's fees. While his striking method was a mix of his own take on the Northlander Fencing school techniques. These things could be dismissed as coincidence if it were not for Gaius's Coup de Grace.

At the end of the fight the rogue attempted an all or nothing stab to Gaius's neck but his movements and intention were far too telegraphed. With decisive swing Gaius removed the Rogue's blade hand with a swift upwards slash then followed through with a rolling horizontal slash that decapitated the rogue. This move is, to those in the know, a finishing move taught exclusively by a blademaster in the Northeastern peninsula of the Empire; a blademaster that taught at the Empire's Royal Officers Academy some fifteen years ago.

As the Rogue's body slumped to the ground and his head rolled off into the shadows Gaius turned to the remaining combatants "One Down, four to go." he called out as he reassessed the battle to pick a new target. The one that stuck out the most to him was the opponent that Lady Edelgarde had chosen, a sword and shield wielder that at the moment she seemed to be handling well. However with most of the other enemies already being ganged up on with the exception of the Halberd wielder who Viv was scaring into submission; Gaius would be damned if he left Lucia to fight her Opponent alone. Advancing once again Gaius circled the outside of the fight coming up behind the Sword and Shield wielder, however he did not attack he simply placed himself in a flanking position and made his presence known to the two combatants.

 

[Topless]

Sakuranbo Suzui
Location: Lower Sewers
Sakura's path was blocked by Falco, who demanded her to spit the heart out. Unfortunately, the heart has already landed in her stomach. Sakura listened to every word he said and spoke "Oh, it's not? Forgive me, it's a custom from my clan to eat the hearts of fallen prey as a way to carry their sins and bless them before eating. I...never thought it would be unacceptable in this place, especially for someone who came from a far away land free of conflict and politics. Perhaps I should have been more considerate of your customs here than where I came from. I don't how I can spit it out, I've already swallowed it."

Sakura never at once thought that there would be a sort of clash between cultures and morality. She had no problem eating about anything that is edible to her beastkin taste and there is nothing morally problematic about it. Yet, to be told that it is unacceptable around this world is something she herself isn't aware of. She is after all a foreigner in a land fulfilled by progression and politics. "Falco, I know it is more important about the heart, but can you please let that wait? Our friends are in need of backup. We can talk about this some other time." She said, hoping that Falco could consider.

AnonyMouse EmperorsChosen King Crimson AriAriAbabwa
​

 

[EmperorsChosen]

Lucia Corinna Edelgarde​

Location: Bandit Base
​

Lucia's strategy seemed to serve her well as the man was forced onto the defensive, mustering his strength to keep the barrier up to protect against the Caskarieth's onslaught of stabs, fists, and elbows. He may very well have been older and wiser, however the young pugilist wasn't providing any time for his brain to process and think. All instincts raced to combat each attack and keep him alive.

"Come, come~ Even face to face, all you can do is hide. I'm stuck longer than necessary in this wretched place. The least you could do as a man is try to make it worth my while!" Lucia chided, her tongue as sharp as any weapon. She knew composure also played a part in any fight. Even one slip-up could end the fight.

Smirking, Lucia continued with battering and clawing the shield before suddenly switching it up. She lunged forward, feinting another thrust but instead slamming her plated foot down onto her foe's. The older man let out a pained growl. However, before she could follow up, her foe suddenly thrust his sword at her, forcing her to step back momentarily.

As she reformed her guard, Lucia saw the man stow his shield and instead pull another blade. In a moment, the man was on the offensive against her. Twin blades struck at her, which the girl repelled using her greaves and gauntlets. The swords targeted not only her less-armored torso and head, but more particularly her left side, not that she didn't expect that. Even inexperienced, she was made aware that opponents would exploit perceived disabilities like that. Of course, that made them somewhat predictable as well.

Awaiting the expected swing on her left side, Lucia jerked. Grasping the man's wrist with her left hand, Lucia stepped forward. The opposing arm thrust forward to stab at her midsection. Taking hold of the incoming blade with her right hand, Lucia guided the sword to stab past her abdomen before jerking her arm up to crash into the vagabond's right elbow. An audible pop could be heard as his hand strained and loosened around the blade.

Lucia followed up, smashing her shoulder into the man as one of the blades dropped to the floor. He raised the remaining blade, preparing for another attack, though the woman took pause.

"You might should reevaluate your choices," Lucia said to the now fatigued and injured man. "I suppose I could break something else, but I'm fairly sure we want at least one of you alive. Though, the swordsman does appear as if he could partake in a second round. You could also run yourself through, I suppose... if you wanted to die in such a disgusting place."

At the mention of the swordsman, he glanced behind him to note Gaius before taking another view of his surroundings. Seemingly, he understood his situation and slowly lowered the sword, dropping it to the ground in surrender.

Lucia glanced to her aide with a small, victorious smirk before surveying the other fights for any whom looked as though they needed help, though it appeared they were more or less finishing up.

Interactions: Kenshin772 (Somewhat) @Basically everyone else

 

[AnonyMouse]

Falion "Falco" Cauphix​

Location: Insert Location Here​

"Oh, it's not? Forgive me, it's a custom from my clan to eat the hearts of fallen prey as a way to carry their sins and bless them before eating. I...never thought it would be unacceptable in this place, especially for someone who came from a far away land free of conflict and politics," Sakura explained.

As she explained herself, Falco felt the (most of) the tension leave his body. He released a breath he didn't even know he had been holding, though his eyes remained on her face. This was the response he had hoped for, yet it felt oddly hollow. That man's heart was still in her. She had carved it out and... he briefly shook his head, preferring not to think of it.

She said she meant no harm, but.... what if she was lying?

No, no, Sakura wouldn't do that. She had been honest all day. Sometimes too honest, he thought, remembering the tail incident. She wasn't a liar.

Then again, she wasn't a cannibal either, until a few moments ago. Things change fast...

Shaking his head once more, Falco slowly moved out of her path and leaned on the slimy sewer walls, as if all of his strength had been sapped. He wanted to scream or disappear or both... but that wasn't an option. They still had a mission to do and, after it was done, he might just have to fight for her life.

Damn... what the hell is going on? he thought, as his mind raced through all of the people he had met today, how they might react, what he might have to do...

"Perhaps I should have been more considerate of your customs here than where I came from," she went on to say as he began to wish she would just stop talking. Please stop talking! Please just pick a damned side! Be the nice, innocent fox-girl, or be the brutal heart-carving monster! You can't do both! Stop it!

"I don't how I can spit it out, I've already swallowed it," she concluded.

"N-nah, it's fine," he said, the words clumsily tumbling from his lips. After a brief pause, he forced himself to smile and put away his daggers. "You didn't know. I... I get it." And i hope they do, too.

"Falco, I know it is more important about the heart, but can you please let that wait? Our friends are in need of backup. We can talk about this some other time," she said.

His smile grew slightly larger. So, she was concerned about their friends. Not a monster after all.

"Yeah, you're right, but you gotta understand, Sakura," he said calmly, gradually finding his courage and resolve once more. His voice cracked with the first few words, but it came easier until, at last, he was speaking clearly, strongly, and from his heart. He figured it out, why this all felt so wrong: "We're Kriegslowen. We protect people. Everyone looks to us for that protection, so you have to know the difference between people and meat, Sakura," he said firmly. "This guy... this, this asshole," he gestured to the mutilated corpse, "as terrible and shitty as he was, he was a person, too, Sakura. We already failed him once, when we killed him. Again, when we --I-- selfishly took his stuff. We can't do it a third time. We just can't. It's too fucked up."

After a small pause, he gestured for her to hurry on without him. "Go. You're faster. I'll catch up," Falco said. "Just don't forget."

The others will understand, right? Falco thought, thinking as much about his own part in this, as he was Sakura. He didn't take the armor because he thought he needed it... although he certainly did. His mind had been on its worth and the envious desire to have this guy's stuff. While it wasn't as grisly as carving the merc's heart out, it was still wrong... wasn't it?

As he began to walk toward where the others went, his mind continued to race. Lucy seemed pretty freaked out. And Cressey. Oh, fuckin' shit, what if they tell Thea! And Razul definitely didn't need this right now, after everything else.

Speak of the devil, as they say. Falco paused as he came upon a grim figure leaned against the sewer's walls, standing in a puddle of his own sickness."Raz? Razul, buddy!"" Falco said, forcing himself to chuckle as he quickened his pace until he reached the boy. He studied Razul's deathly pale features in the sewer's dim magitech lighting. "Hey, hey snap out of it. Look at me," Falco said, peering into his blue eyes. "No. You're not gonna do this shit. Not here, man. C'mon, keep moving. And you better not puke on me, bro," Falco said as he supported him and tried to keep Razul moving. "You're getting out, if I have to carry you into town myself, through all the dogs and murderhobos and shit and when we get back, I'm gonna tell your stupid girlfriends how much of a pussy you were and they're gonna be all over me, man, and I know you don't want that. But I bet they do!"

Falco wasn't even sure why he was rambling on and on. He also wasn't sure why there were tears forming in the corners of his eyes. It must be the sewer's stink making them water.
Interaction(s): AriAriAbabwa (Razul) / Topless (Sakura)

 

[AI10100]

Thalgrukh
Location: Sewers, Tylsen
Interacting with: Cavern folk | AnonyMouse [Vivienne]
Mentions: ​

In a seemingly unexpected and hilarious turn of events, the dog did seem to lead them somewhere as it began to thrash around in Risax's silk grip. His companion pushed against the wall and it crumbled with so much ease that at the back of Thal's mind, he was worried for the structural integrity of the sewers. Still, it seemed to lead them right into the thick of things— the bandits, their other companions and Vivienne. It took a second for Thal to fully comprehend what was happening but he prepared himself. The others had already dove into the battlefield, choosing their respective partners.

One of the bandits made a break towards him and Risax, seemingly eager on using their newly made entrance as his escape route. Considering that Vivienne was blocking the actual exit, Thal couldn't blame him. Gaius, however, intercepted just as fast.

Right. Gaius had called out an order for him and Risax. He moved forward, keeping an eye on the rogue as it entered its deadly dance with Gaius. He spotted the halberd man, seemingly ready to fight but give up at the same time. Thal moved to apprehend the man, to make sure he doesn't get any bright ideas. However, he was halfway towards him that the halberd man sharply turned and seemed to get the same idea as his own rogue friend— or he was spurred into action by the mad dash the rogue had done. Either way, he met Thal halfway and thrust forward, the advantage of the halberd's length catching Thal by surprise. He barely managed to parry the strike with his shield.

They both came to a stop as the bandit pulled his halberd back. Thal had to close the distance quickly but the bandit was relentless in thrusting his halberd— which Thal did manage to block with his shield. He stepped back once again and huffed before deciding on something. He reeled his shield arm back and threw it straight at the halberd man. Not expecting the strike, the bandit made an attempt to block the shield. He successfully deflected it and it clanged harmlessly onto the ground. Thal used this opportunity to close the gap between them and brought up to strike the halberd wielding bandit on his arm. The axe embedded deep into the bandit's arm.

The bandit grit down his teeth to prevent a scream from arising but it did cause him to release the halberd. The bandit reached to his side and procured a dagger to stab Thal's head with. The ovil-ken, however, pulled his axe back from the man, pulling him slightly towards Thal and he caught the arm with his free hand. Thal struck the man's shoulder with the pommel of his axe, causing him to stumble forward and completely release the knife he was holding. He used this opportunity to navigate around the bandit, still holding his arm, and practically kept the arm short of being broken.

The bandit struggled, attempting to break free from the ovil-ken's grip until Thal pressed the pick of his weapon to the man's throat. "Wouldn't try that if I were you." The bandit let out a strangled sigh but has stopped trying to escape his grip. Thal didn't have rope with him so he turned to Vivienne. "We need him?" He questioned. Seeing as the others seemed to have descended upon the bandits with bloodlust, Thal wondered if they had any use of keeping the bandit alive or if he should just end the bandit's suffering right then and there.

 

[RedArmyShogun]

Thea Schuerer
Location: Underground, Tylsen
​

Readying her sword arm after turning his bow into busted Fragments, Thea pulls her blade back and behind, rolling her shoulders for a third attack as Cephilia joined in on the assault, her rapier swung downwards, an odd choice. Only to watch in surprise as the weapon turned into a whip like construct, injuring the archer a bit, orders were given. Taking alive was harder than dead and the man stayed armed with a look of defiance in his eyes. Still it was something she could humor at least, the man was a bit skilled but she felt she could keep up with him and this task was given to her.

"... If he complies it shall be as you wish."

Pausing long enough to say this, Thea changed the direction of her swing, bringing the greatsword down upon the archer who predictably blocked with his shortsword once more. In terms of pure power and defenses he was at a large disadvantage against the Schuerer. However even with that assured the bandit archer was desperate, to escape or to kill her, if not both. Though even if he got around Thea herself that still left Cephilia, who seemed well equipped to deal with the bandit. Deciding to take this as a test of her own abilities, Thea put her force into the blade battering the man down before she bore in stepping close. Rolling her elbows and arm again she deflected a swing from the bandit, who in spite of his efforts phased the problems of physical pain as he made use of his arm to still fight, half pondering why he didn't just switch hands, it stood to reason that the archer was so used to using his dominate arm that he was piss poor with the other, or he was simply so poorly trained it never occured to him.

Thinking back on the teachings of her youth to kill him would be the most efficient course of action, but he was wounded and it had been requested that she take him alive, which was something she could do and would fit the commands of the Goddess, while these men were a threat of some sort, Cephilia did not strike her as being kind, there had to be a reason to want him alive, but she could not think of that here and now. Adventuring seemed more complex than soldiering, but she had decided on this. Thinking quickly, Thea keeps up with her left leg as the shortsword comes down once more, her steel covered right shin meeting the blade as she kicks upwards, knocking the arm back and away as the blade went up she looped out her own sword aiming for his left side, right for the neck. But she did not cut, hooking her cross guard behind his neck as her right leg went down, switching to her left, she presses into his gut and then rams the pommel of her weapon into his back before pushing off.

Wheezing a bit as he caught his breath, the man discontinues his attempts at vertical slices and goes for a stab, aiming low for her midsection, recovering her left leg into footing she shifts her blade into a circular pattern, striking the blade away from her directly and off to her left side, dropping to a one-handed stance as she leans on her left leg and rises up with a high kick aiming for his head, landing the blow she sends the archer to the ground and hurriedly drags her blade back into position as she lands her footing, aiming for his neck as it slid across the rock and dirt bottom with a scraping sound emitting as it stops barely a fingers breath from his neck.

"Yield." She says simply, but that was not enough as the man went for one of his arrows, aiming to drive it into her leg, meeting plate as the arrowhead snapped, he soon finds her other boot kicking him sqaure across the side of his head, the armor clanking off the side of his skull. With a flaring of pain in his skull yet still alive, Thea quickly reaches into her sack and grabs her rope, kicking the sword from his hand, she presses a knee into his wounded arm and shoulder as she grabbed his other arm, forcing the two together she partially allowed him to sit forward before bending his left arm behind his back and lassoing it to his right. "Thank the Goddess you still live. Play nice and you will live yet longer still."

With that she kicks him once more across the back so that he got the message that further resistance would be pointless, turning her attention to the others she lifts the groggy man to his feet and backs him away, in what seemed to be minutes only seconds had passed and she had done as Cephilia had requested. Speaking of, what was she and the others doing? Keeping hold of the rope and barred arms, Thea turns her head to see.

Interactions: AnonyMouse technically.

 

[Thalia_Neko]

Hysydice "Hyss" Maliss

Currently: clean up from combat
Thinking: "Such a pity.. Damn, really wanted to.."

Location: sewers
Interacting: AI10100
Mentions: others around

Well, it appeared her attempt to aid the Madam was, in fact, unnecessary. Still, that didn't mean she shouldn't have tried -or try in the future, should a similar situation ever arise. After all, the centauress replied with verbal acknowledgement of gratitude at her attempt of aid. Which made Hyss swell with inward elation. A soft smile reflecting that outwardly. Or somewhat, with the smile hidden beneath her mask.

Hyss had wanted to make another move from the shadows -ANY move, but it didn't seem like that was necessary. With a swift glance across the scene of battle, all of the pairings were resulting in swift wins for their allies. Her gentle, yet sharp ice blue eyes fell upon the head of the enemy rogue hitting the ground and bouncing unceremoniously until it came to a rest not too far away from her feet. There he lay, the target of her envy and feeling of challenge. She had wanted to one up that rogue at some point in the battle. She had wanted to sneer at him and rub his nose in it when she managed to get away with something he had not. But staring at his head and those lifeless eyes, and the gruesome leakage of blood at his shredded neck only left her feeling sour. How could she mock that?

A moment later the small girl appeared suddenly at the side of the big Ovil-ken, giving a glimpse up to the towering individual. Since everyone's battles had gone so well, it had left her with very little to do. Here was something she could help with. She offered the green-skinned man another smile. But it was hidden beneath her mask still, so she spoke. "Here."

She immediately -with the help of the Ovil-ken to restrain the halberdier- began to tie him up with some firm cloth she had removed from her pack. She bound him like his -erm- fortunate comrades. Satisfied with the knots and that he wouldn't be a threat moving forward, Hyss had one further thing to do. She snaked off to the fringe of the area and put a sharp spike of her weapon up to the remaining guys' neck, just gently brushing it. She wasn't really aware that this was a mage, so she wasn't sure how threatening he could be. His cowardice could be a ruse, or the real thing, whichever, didn't matter. With the spike so gently caressing his neck, in her other hand she held up some of the lengthy cloth she had used to tie up one of his friends, indicating the same for him. With his allies soundly defeated, the cowardly mage would definitely give up.​

 

[King Crimson]

Cressey
Current Location: Deep Sewers ​

Cressey's mind worked in overdrive, milliseconds stretching into minutes as she took note of all that stood before her; Vivian at the back, fending off multiple attackers by herself, three in front, one wielding a wicked-looking halberd, a man holding a sword and shield, closest to her, his feet planted firmly on the ground, another, the largest of the bunch, clad in thick, sturdy platemail, propping himself upon a massive warhammer as he rose back to his feet following an exchange with the centaur.
She also took note of the figures to her side; one curled up, seemingly trying it's best to not be noticed, the formless figure of someone coughing and writhing upon the ground, somewhere in the darker corner of the room, and lastly, closest to the campfire, a smaller figure, the sound of a bolt being nocked into a crossbow alerting her of his presence.
The archer was, at first, the biggest cause of alarm for her, until she heard Thea's voice behind her, and in her peripheral vision saw the point of that massive blade rushing forwards to intercept him.
Well done, Knight. she thought to herself, a small, grateful smirk on her lips.
Soon after, a portion of the sewer wall caved in, filling the room with thick dust and rubble. Through the haze, Cressey could see familiar, swarthy green skin, and a large, spidery figure, rushing forwards to join in on the assault.
The battlecries of her comrades, the sounds of their footsteps behind her emboldened her spirit, and following suit, she doubled her pace, charging headlong into the three men that made the backbone of the mercenary's defense.
The caskaerith's words had stuck well in her mind; "Lightning is nature's equalizer. It will fell the tree and the bear in it with equal aplomb."
She knew what her words meant, and like a bird spotting it's prey, she glided across the room in a furious dash, charging headlong, first into the shield-bearer.
For a second, their eyes met, the man already turning his shield to hide from her impending assault.
He wasn't to worry, however, as Cressey stepped to the side, circumnavigating around the man at a blistering speed, making a beeline for her true target, who had just gotten back onto their feet.
Cressey was no woodsman, and there was no glory in striking some boring, old tree that planted it's roots and didn't hit back.
No, she was in the mood for bear hunting, something fierce and savage that she could really challenge herself against.
The armor-clad mercenary was just the target; nearly three times her size, brutish and savage, with arms and legs like the trunks of a tree, and surrounded by thick plate armor.
Ten strikes, two minutes, Cressey marked to herself, her assessment of him finished.
That was to be her benchmark for defeating him, a bit lenient, perhaps too much so, but certainly possible.

The armor-clad man had just barely begun to turn towards her, his confusion and alarm clear in his wild eyes.
Perhaps it was raw instinct or years of experience honed from battle that allowed him to recover from the ensuing chaos, his fear twisting to anger as he shifted his weight, using the momentum of his shifting weight to let loose a wide, cleaving sweep with his hammer.
A billow of dust flew up into the air as he tore through the air, the rush of movement obscuring his blood-hazed vision for but a brief moment.
When he could see again, there was nothing, no sign of that golden-haired arrow that had been flying towards him.
The familiar, assuring resonance in his palm of his hammer crushing bone was absent, a warning that he'd failed to hit his target.
Frantically, his eyes scanned for her, his body still off balance from the full force of his swing.
For but a brief moment, he saw a few, fluttering strands of blonde gold, fluttering in his peripheral vision, just beneath his nose, then, a violent jolt of pain, the sudden rush of blood up his throat, and out of his mouth, as her lance pierced his armor, a bolt of lightning surging directly into his liver.
The moment her lance had made contact, Cressey danced backwards, just out of reach of the man's thick, log-sized arms as he clumsily attempted to slap her away.
That's one. she began, raising her lance once more.
Frankly, she was rather impressed by the potency of the magical sparks dancing along her spear, their effects already clear in the her foe nearly doubled over, clutching the fresh wound she'd made in his side. The acrid smell of burning flesh and leather wafted in the air, and through the dim firelight, she could see a thin billow of smoke leaking out from behind the man's glove.
Of course, just one wouldn't be enough to bring down someone of his size, his eyes still alive, and full frenzied rage, his hand leaving his side to take hold of his weapon, revealing a smoldering, black crater that glowered like a burning, hot coal.
The man rushed forward, unleashing another wide, wild swing, aimed to swat her away like a tiny fly.
Cressey met his charge with one of her own, ducking down low, letting the man's hammer sail mere inches above her head. With a shift of her weight upon her toes, she slid around to the warrior's side, punishing him with a swift stab just beneath his underarm, into his ribs.
Two.
The man was more prepared this time, ignoring the pain, and turning on his heel after her, his hammer raised high for an overhead swing, cutting only through empty air, before a trio of burning holes simultaneously burst from his body, first, just between his lungs, then into his collar, just barely missing his throat, and the last, searing through the fat of his cheek, sending the man reeling away, clutching his face as he howled in agony.
Three, four five. Cressey counted, dancing away, once more just out of the man's reach.
She could tell the end was near for him; his form, once so proud and imposing, was now sagging and enervated, almost having to prop himself up on his hammer just to stay standing.
His movements were gradually growing slower, duller, less responsive, as each thrust of her lance cut through flesh and muscle, each surge of electricity it brought tore through nerves and spirit.
Blood streamed out of his mouth, his nose, and his hate-filled eyes in thin streams, and yet, despite the clear pain he endured, his glare stayed locked onto the girl before him.
Summoning up the last of his strength with a primal roar, he charged forward, his warhammer raised high above his shoulder in one final, last-ditch effort to strike her down.
Cressey stood her ground, unfazed, ready to meet his attack.
Her spear surged forward like a bolt of lightning, leaving another smoldering crater in the man's shoulder, the precise blow ripping through the nerves in his arm and sending his hammer veering sharply off to the side, Cressey easily dancing out of it's path as it smashed into the ground in a plume of dirt and dust.
Six. she counted, already prepared for his attempt to follow up on his assault; his arm tensing around the grip on his hammer, readying to send it in a wide sweep to his side.
Cressey ended it before it could begin; another strike to his opposing arm, sending the shaft of his hammer falling to the ground he lost his grip.
Seven.
Two more rapid strikes, first to his left knee, then his right thigh, causing the man's legs to buckle beneath him.
Eight, Nine.
Gasping in agony, the man tumbled forward in freefall, his limbs shot, arms dangling uselessly at his sides, legs no longer able to support his weight. Cressey's lance pulled back, ready to decisively run the man's head through from below.
However, as her lance rushed forward, she suddenly shifted direction, ever so slightly to the side, allowing the man's chin to come to rest upon the flat of her spear, the brilliant glow fading away as Cephilia's magic ran it's course.
The warrior's eyes swam in his head, barely able to keep his eyes open through the daze of pain.
When they struggled to focus, they found the girl, boring at him with dark, tumultuous eyes, her spear held tight against his throat.
"When you reach the gatekeeper of hell, tell him that you were felled by Cressey, in nine strikes, one minute and fifty-five seconds!" she commanded, her voice full of baleful, and righteous fury, the hand grasping her spear tensing, prepared to deliver a final blow.
A wry, subtle grin spread on her face, as she added, "...And when you meet the other dregs sitting in the town dungeon, be sure to tell them just the same!" before sliding her lance out from beneath the man's chin, and then, with a thunderous slap, sent the flat side of her lance careening into his temple. The man's head jerked to the side, his eyes rolling back into his skull as he fell, face-first into the dirt, down for the count.
"...That last one didn't count."

With her foe defeated, and the sound of several others following suit, Cressey turned back towards the tunnel entrance, a proud grin on her face, as she boasted, "Hah! Could any of your 'little princesses' do that, Falco?"
When she received no response, and saw no sign of Falco, or any of the other members of her party, the smile on her face faded, turning to a concerned frown.
"Falco?...Razul?...Sakura?" she called, her eyes looking for any hint of silver hair or violet fur, or the glamourous flash of a wonderous pose.
"Hm? Where are they?"

​

Interacting:
@ Everyone

 

[AnonyMouse]

Cephilia Valdergeuse​

Location: Tylsen River Cavern​

Cephilia slowly paced at a safe distance as Schuerer continued her dance with the archer, far enough to be out of the knight's way, but close enough to deliver a swift crack of her whip if the man somehow gained the upper hand. Though his options were dwindling, she knew better than to take her eyes off of this engagement. Desperation could turn the tables quickly. However, once Schuerer delivered a high kick to the man's head, thoroughly ringing his bell, Cephilia was satisfied that her intervention would not be necessary. He was practically a staggering drunkard at this point.

By releasing the trigger, Cephilia returned her weapon to its rapier form. Internal gears whirred, harmonizing with the spooling of well-oiled steel cable, and finally punctuated by a satifsying click as the segmented blade locked into position, becoming whole once more. She rapped upon the basket hilt once with the palm of her hand, to ensure everything was as it should be.

By the time Thea began tying the archer's hands, the elf was already making her way around the perimeter of the battlefield, toward Vivienne's end. The crates and barrels cloistered in a dark corner of the cavern caught her attention. She wondered what contraband they contained, but now was not the time to check. A full investigation would be performed once the cavern and, perhaps, the entire sewer system, was secured. For now, the safety of these new recruits took priority. Mop up. Lock down. Then, gather evidence.

To her right, Lady Edelgarde was goading her adversary. The older man discarded his shield. Perhaps he was too weary to move it efficiently. Or perhaps the elf's taunts had bruised his ego enough to such a degree he no longer wished to 'hide' behind it. Cephilia spied Kampfer waiting his turn, his blade bloodied. While she would like to believe he was merely covering an ally, as she had done for Thea, the headless, handless corpse of a bandit lying face-down nearby gave rise to ill thoughts.

They sure do delight in butchery, don't they? Cephilia thought as she calmly navigated the various engagements. If nothing else, she was grateful Schuerer had taken the archer alive and the ovil-ken seemed to be holding back as he faced the halberdier. He seemed a gentle sort, or perhaps his lack of training made him fight defensively. At the center of it all, the pint-sized blonde was picking apart a much larger man. For a moment, Cephilia feared this one would end in another death, as the girl perforated him repeatedly. But she seemed to think better of it at the end, finishing the bout with a knockout blow.

Cephilia had spent most of the day regretting her impulsive decision to send them down here. Only now, as enemy blood began to flow and adrenaline surged, did she truly begin to regret not sending them home the moment she realized this 'rat hunt' had gone awry. That was the moment this became her problem and should have been addressed by her alone. Instead, she allowed them to participate because she thought they could use the experience. Few F-Rank adventurers could say they raided an enemy hideout. And far fewer can say they did so on their first mission.

"Few lessons learned in victory," Cephilia murmured as she approached Viv, whose features appeared equally contemplative as she watched the various duels reach their conclusions.

"They revel in it," Viv said, keeping her voice low.

"Not all." Cephilia placed a hand on the centaur's side and gave her a gentle pat. "I'm sorry I asked you not to interfere. I know it's hard for you to..."

"No, this was necessary. Now we know where to begin," the centaur said as her usual smile returned. She stowed her dual shields and properly turned to face the other woman, but Cephilia's eyes had wandered elsewhere. The Caskarieth gazed at the 'enemy' mage, who was now being approached by the dark-clad beastkin. "We're three short," Viv realized. "I see Cresselinde, but where's the rest of her party. Falco, Razul, Sakura-"

"Alive," Cephilia said quickly, before panic could set in, "but The Fool needs a healer-"

"Razul!" Viv gasped. "Where? How?"

"Calm down. She's stable, but needs a proper two-gem to bring her around and all I have is my civy arcanizer," Cephilia said with a subtle roll of her eyes. Viv, in her infinite concern, did not seem to notice the female pronouns. "Outside, hang a left, and don't run, or you'll clip your horns. It's tight. Go, I'll talk with our mage friend over there and wrap things up here." The warning was immediately ignored as the centaur briskly nodded before galloping away at full speed, leaving Cephilia alone with the monolithic greatword she had planted in the ground a moment ago. It stood like a flag, staking their claim on these grim tunnels.

Cephilia approached the timid mage, who was currently at the mercy of Hyss's glaive. "Easy now. You've done well, but I don't think this one's going to be much trouble... is he?" Cephilia said, meeting the man's sullen eyes with her icy glare.

"I-I'm not with them. Th-they made me-"

"Shh! No words. No sudden movements. We'll sort out your role in this later," Cephilia said firmly and he promptly shut his trap. "Remove your arcanizer, slowly. Do you have any other weapons in your possession? Nod."

"I-I have rights..." the mage muttered, but slowly shok his head as he unbuckled the device from his wrist with trembling hands and forfeited it to her.

"Quiet. You have wronged. Your rights are up for review," Cephilia said dismissively as she briefly inspected the arcanizer before clipping it to her belt for safekeeping. "I'll leave this one to you. Can you keep him under control?" she asked the girl. "We've enough corpses as it is."
Interaction(s): Thalia_Neko (Hyss)
Mentions: AI10100 (Thal) / King Crimson (Cressey) / RedArmyShogun (Thea) / Huntertabbysandshark3 (Risax) / AriAriAbabwa (Razul) / Kenshin772 (Gaius) / Topless (Sakura) / EmperorsChosen (Lucia)

 

[Huntertabbysandshark3]

Risax
Location: Underground spooky scary cavern
interaction: sorta just everyone​

Risax was at a disadvantage in this situation not exactly being the best suited for him. After all he was holding back a dog while loading his particular large crossbow. Luckily for Risax loading it wasn’t overly an issue aiming was. The others dealing with many of the bandits As the Arachne would move back into the hole he created once Thal was through much like miss Vivian act as a living road block for the escape of any one of the bandits however it seemed that everyone had already dealt with them all in quick succession leaving risax in the dust a little bit holstering the crossbow/hand ballista he’d pull the dog back towards himself and swiftly rebinding the hound. “Well then good show everyone maybe less blood.. I’m sure that’s not gonna… come up well for us, marketing you know?” Risax suggested a little sheepishly. “Soo good first mission everyone!” he added with a smile trying to improve the mood despite him currently still holding a cocooned hound he’d move forward somewhat looking at those that where still alive. “If we need to bind them properly I can easily do so not sure how we should proceed from here“

 

[AriAriAbabwa]

Scene 16: Every 'Man' for Himself...
Synopsis: Razul Dazzle is helped again, and at this point, there's no denying it: Falco just wants to play 'stick in the road.'
Additional Cast: AnonyMouse (Falco)

​

He needed to keep going. Razul knew how miserable of a sight this looked: the person brimming full of justly confidence, now as pale as new linens. What could this scene have even looked from another's perspective? Wallowing in the stench of vomit and blood... He needed to move, but his body stayed, reluctant to leave the temporary rest that was himself leaning against the wall.

Razul heard another fight in the distance, and his mind switched course. The sooner he got there, the better. He needed to do something other than force people to give him a crutch; he needed to show that he was useful. What was the point of everything up to this point, otherwise?

And, with a huffing grunt, the 'boy' pushed himself back on his wobbling feet, feeling for the sword still at his side. Any sense of hope and inspiration crumbled, however, as an ever familiar voice rang through the sewers. Razul only winced as Falco came into view. Again...?

"I... I can handle myself..." But as Falco wrapped himself around Razul, there went any direction and strength powerful enough to overcome him. Now, Razul was being led away from the fight (which notably died down in audibility).

His teeth bit glued against each other; a contorting, clenched sensation reached his mind and face. Why was this happening here in the guild as well...? Why him? Razul's face blanched and wretched, but from a different feeling of agony. Each second the thief spoke, the new sensation beside the pain picked up. Each time, Razul's countenance twisted.

Then a hasty shuffle; an escape from the gripping support of Falcos' hand. The back of Razul's hand met the other's face. "What do you want from me?" Her voice screeched and echoed, her masculinity pitch prior now absent. Her gaze, lit afire, locked from across the tunnel. "You let every other person go willy-nilly, but you always run back to me just to stick my face in mud—humiliating me like I'm the damsel who always needs saving!" Razul couldn't think; she made little movement, hindered by the previous injuries.

Limping on the side holding most of the temporarily sealed cut, she took back to Falco, pushing him by the chest with a clenched fist; against the wall. "I. Don't. Need. Help! I don't need anybody's help to be good at something other than fucking housework! I'll show you, I'll show those guild seniors, I'll show my fath—" Razul bit her tongue, flicking her distorted gaze away a few seconds amid sudden silence. She said too much; to the only person who 'knew' her secret earlier. Despite her sharp tongue from the blue, her sigh came full of defeat. Instead, she muttered a sharp, "I'll make it back without using other people as a crutch, because I'm not a pussy."

A few steps through the tunnel, though, and she stopped. "And I don't care to know how you found out, earlier. I..." Razul's eyes flicked open and shut as she keeled slightly over. But no way would she willingly satisfy Falco's own fire. She'd do her best trudging by herself. "I can be as good anybody else... I don't give a shit what you think about me... Just give me a chance and I'll show you that I can do the same things anyone else can..." The pain was coming back by now; Razul shut her lips and grit her teeth, moving forward at a snail's pace.

 

[AnonyMouse]

Vivienne Yvarra​

Location: Subterranean Cavern​

Viv took off at a swift gallop, but immediately slowed to a brisk trot once she collected her thoughts. Although she was certainly concerned about Razul's wellbeing, it wouldn't do for the new recruits to see her in a panic. She composed herself... for now at least. She intended to break into a run again once she was out of sight.

To her surprise, the smallest member of their party fell in step beind her. It seems Cressey had overheard some of the conversation between Cephilia and Viv and wanted to tag along. Vivienne regarded her with a warm smile, before bellow a request to the arachnid. Excellent work, everyone," she said, mirroring his praise a moment ago, before adding: "Risax, darling, would you kindly see to Cressey's opponent?" the centaur said, pointing him to the unconscious man lying face-down on his warhammer. He didn't look as if he'd be getting up any time soon, but the sooner his hands were bound, the better. Risax seemed the perfect choice for that task.

Vivienne continued toward the narrow crevasse leading toward the sewers but immediately noticed another figure approaching. With the passage too narrow for them both, the centaur waited for this other traveler to come through. As the figure emerged from the darkness, Viv realized it was Sakura and she stepped forward, ready to gather up the foxgirl in her arms for a warm hug... but paused when she noticed the blood on Sakura's paws and face. Viv's eyes darted to the passage, hoping --praying-- the other two were right behind her. But none came.

"Sakura!" Viv said "What happened? Falco? Razul? Were you attacked? Are there more enemies?" Viv said, as she stepped forward and took on a defensive posture at the fox's side, putting herself slightly between Sakura and the dark passage.
Interaction(s): King Crimson (Cressey) / Huntertabbysandshark3 (Risax) / Topless (Sakura)
Mentions: AriAriAbabwa (Razul) / Everone Else in the Cavern

 

[King Crimson]

Cressey
Current Location: Deep Sewer
​

Still no sign of them, Cressey thought to herself, her expectant eyes still peeled on the doorway before her.
With little else to do, she had taken to sitting atop her fallen foe's massive back, using him as a makeshift seat, her chin propped upon her hand, as she watched and waited for any sign of the three comrades that had accompanied her on this harrowing journey, her fingers constantly rapping impatiently on the handle of her lance.
Occasionally, she took a break from her vigil to see what the others were doing, lend a hand where needed, or prod the unconscious, barely alive fellow beneath her when he began to stir.
Her gaze soon fell upon the two S-rank guild seniors, who were currently crowding around one of mercenaries, his form trembling, furtive, his hands raised in self-defense as they bore down upon him, whispering something amongst themselves.
Naturally, her ears began to pick up on their conversation, her interest half-piqued.
"I see Cresselinde..." she heard the centaur say, her skin flushing pale for a brief moment, hearing that name again. Forcefully swallowing down her dread, she bit her tongue, and listened on.
"...Alive..." Cephilia replied, just as nonplussed as always. Cressey would perhaps need to have a word with her about the nature of privacy, at some later date.
"...But the Fool needs a healer."
"Razul..." Cressey breathed to herself. Seems that the caskaerith's witchcraft wasn't quite as good as advertised.
"Go," Cephilia ordered, returning her attention back to her captive.
"I'll talk with our mage friend over there and wrap things up here."
With a grateful look on her face, Vivian reared up, turning her massive body towards the doorway, all but ready to charge through the hall after the three missing initiates.
"I'm coming with you!" Cressey exclaimed, hopping off of her fallen foe, and rushing over to the centaur with a hurried pace.
For a moment, her concern shown clear on her face, echoing in her hardly contained voice, but just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone.
"N-Not because I'm concerned for them, mind you, I'm sure they're perfectly alright!" Cressey sternly explained, rolling her eyes in clear annoyance of having to take care of her foolish friends, her hands knit behind her head without a care in the world.
"But knowing them thus far, I'm sure they're doing something stupid, and it would reflect poorly on me to simply leave them to their own devices."
Whether satisfied by Cressey's explanation, unconvinced in the slightest, or perhaps not caring at all, Vivian only replied with a welcoming grin, and a nod of her head, beckoning her towards the door, as she trotted on her way, Cressey following soon after.

After a few tense minutes of searching, they soon came to a familiar clearing, the smell of death still lingering in the air.
Cressey immediately spotted Sakura's fluffy, violet form, huddled, alone, in the darkness.
No Razul or Falco in sight.
"Ah, Sakura, there you are..." Cressey sighed in relief, walking closer to the fox,
"You missed out on all the fun! What were you lot doing back he--"
All the comfort she'd felt, seeing the beastkin again, left her body in an instant, the moment she saw the blood on her paws, and covering her mouth.
Vivian, in similar fashion, recoiled in horror at the sight, before taking command of the situation, rushing to Sakura's side, placing herself between her and the dark, winding tunnel ahead.
Taking a glance at the two, and then towards the passage, Cressey gave the centaur a reassuring nod.
"Watch after her, I'll get the others," she ordered, before drawing her lance, and racing off into the passage, not giving Vivian a chance to tell her otherwise.

"Falco!? Razul!?" Cressey called out, her voice echoing off the tunnel walls. Distorted voices answered her, somewhere up ahead.
One sounded familiar; Falco's voice, she was sure, judging from that odd, fast and loose way of speaking he used, his voice seemed to be warbling, and occasionally, she could hear the slightest note of his voice cracking beneath some emotional strain.
The other, was...odd. It sounded like Razul, but somehow seemed...off, as if it was the wrong pitch. It was equally strained, sounding like someone struggling to keep their voice raised.
With the voices growing closer and closer, Cressey increased her pace, her heart racing with each step, her grip on her lance tightening until her knuckles were bleached white within her gloves.
Soon, she came upon another clearing, where she could see a familiar head of white hair, and some few feet away from him, propped up against the sewer wall, limping away at nearly a crawl as he(?) barely managed to stand, was Razul.
"Falco? Razul?" Cressey cautiously called out, her lance still at the ready for some unseen danger.
Taking a few steps closer she added, her voice trembling "Sakura, she was..." She swallowed down her disgust at the memory, before continuing,
"...She was covered in blood when we got back. Are you alright? Did something happen?"

Interacting:
AnonyMouse (Falco/Vivian)
Topless (Sakura)
AriAriAbabwa (Razul)

 

[Topless]

Sakuranbo Suzui
Location: Lower Sewers
Sakura had listened to what Falco had said, but she could tell from his eyes that he is too unsure about what she did. Sakura felt guilty. How could she have known what it's allowed or not? She then realized how will the others react to what happened. There is only one way to find out and it may or may not be pretty; she will confess. Although she can make a justification, their reactions are what mattered and what will they do about her once they knew.

The fight was already over, sort of. When she arrived, the first one to notice her was Vivienne and then later Cressey. They both noticed the blood on her hands and jumped into the conclusion that they were attacked. "No...I-" Sakura answered right as Cressey made a rush back to Falco and Razul. Once she is gone, Sakura continued to speak. She did not bothered telling Cressey to stop feeling that she is the kind of person who won't handle the truth. "That man...the one who attacked us before." She said "After he died, me and Falco took some stuff from him thinking that it would be very useful. He took his equipment...and...I ripped his heart out and ate it. It's a custom from my village to eat the heart of prey as a means to bless and absolve them from any suffering and sins of which we will then bear before eating. The body still remains, stripped off of everything he had including the heart. Forgive me, I didn't knew that what I did was unacceptable in this place. I've never once thought about the differences between my home and here. But, now that you know, let me ask you; what will you do to me?"

AnonyMouse King Crimson AriAriAbabwa Huntertabbysandshark3 Everyone else present
​

 

[AI10100]

Thalgrukh
Location: Sewers, Tylsen
Interacting with: Thalia_Neko (Hyss)
Mentions: ​

Thal nearly jumped out of his skin when Hyss had come over to his side without as much as a sound— was he that distracted by the opponent in his grapple? No, maybe he should be more aware. Another thing he should improve on. Nevertheless, he nodded and maneuvered so she could tie the halberdier up. "Thank you." He responded before she stalked off somewhere else. He looked back down at the tied-up individual. He seemed to have given up but his eyes followed Cephilia as she interrogated their mage companion. Thal bent down to grab the dagger, looking around it before pocketing it for himself. Better to have more weapons than less. He also grabbed the halberd, wondering if he could learn to use it at some point. The range would certainly be useful.

"Don't get any bright ideas, yeah?" He called out to the bandit before standing up and looking around. Everything was dying down— some literally— so he opted to head over to Hyss and Cephilia after picking his shield back up. The mage began to sputter out that he was just strongarmed into doing these things. "Quite the fearful one, isn't he?" He said, finding the situation almost humorous with how the mage attempted to get out of any trouble by selling everyone else out.

He turned over to Risax who gave everyone a cheerful congratulations for the successful mission. This was definitely beyond their mission's scope, but he supposed no mission really ends in the information that was provided. Vivienne called out the same before disappearing into the passageway where the other group had made their entrance. Cressey soon followed behind.

"Hey, curiously..." He called out to Hyss, uncertain for a moment before continuing. "Who decided on the dog... arrow? Don't get me wrong, it was a way to let us know where you guys headed but it's a little morbid, isn't it?"

If only that was the most morbid thing he would know of on that day. Unfortunately, he wasn't so lucky. Sakura came out of the tunnel, bloodied but not battered. Vivienne immediately assumed the worst and Thal was prepared to do battle once again. Razul and Falco were both back there weren't they?

That was when Sakura admitted something. She had apparently taken a man's heart out and ate it, right in front of Falco who had been seizing the man's equipment. Thal shifted in his position, a chill running down his spine at the mere imaginary sight of the happenings. Sakura had continued on to explain that it was part of the custom of their tribe. It was a huge cultural misunderstanding. That didn't make Thal's stomach settle. He shifted again, swallowing to prevent a more visual representation of what he was feeling at the moment.

His eyes darted from her to the other members he was with. Sakura had presented a heavy question and Thal didn't trust himself to speak in a way that would be articulate beyond "What the fuck" so he opted to stay silent for now. He gripped the halberd's handle uneasily.

 

[AnonyMouse]

Falion "Falco" Cauphix​

Location: Sewers (Lower Level)​

A thought had been forming in the deepest, darkest recesses of Falco's subconscious. A strange thought. A thought so divorced from all sense of reason and reality, so absurd, so absolutely ridiculous, it couldn't possibly be true. Now, as he stood here, with his cheek burning red, that thought began to take tragic shape.

At the guild hall, he had been ready to cross blades with this jester. But, as the day wore on, he came to find Razul's antics amusing. And, like any good joke, he thought nothing more of it. There's nothing to see here, just a court jester performing his well-practiced routine. Laugh as he struts and preens for your amusement and, if it pleases you, toss him a coin for his efforts. Or join in the act, if you wish. And, when the curtain falls --which is surely will-- wave goodbye as he exits the theater.

He had established, hours ago, that Razul was a phony. A faker. A 'boy' pretending to be a whimsical caricature of a man. He had chided him for this. Laughed at him, goaded him, shamed him, teased him. But, ultimately, Falco came to terms with the fact that this is simply who 'Razul Dazzle' is: a vapid illusion, not worth a second thought.

But who is 'Razul Dazzle,' really?

Heh, who gives a shit. He's funny. I don't care, would have been Falco's answer a few minutes ago.

But now, in this filthy, dark corridor beneath the bowels of the city, Falco began to realize he did care, and it wasn't funny anymore. This shit ain't funny at all...

"Y-you're a GIRRRRL?" Falco said, when this typhoon of words and thoughts and emotions finally crested and crashed on the peaceful shores of his mind. (And Razuls' backhand crashed into his face.) His cheeks turned the faintest hint of red as the words clumsily tumbled from his lips. His eyes grew wide... only to slowly return to normal size as Razul's tirade went on. The look of shock and awe melted away, replaced by... anger? Confusion? All of the above?

"You let every other person go willy-nilly, but you always run back to me just to stick my face in mud—humiliating me like I'm the damsel who always needs saving!" she said.

"Because you do!" Falco spat back.

"I. Don't. Need. Help!" Razul said.

"Yeah you fucking do!" Falco said. Why am I shouting? Why are we shouting!? What the fuck is going on right now!?

"I don't need anybody's help to be good at something other than fucking housework!" Razul said.

"What the fuck does housework have to do with ANYTHING right now!?" he said, gesturing wildly.

"I'll show you, I'll show those guild seniors, I'll show my fath—"

"You'll show the fucking undertaker," Falco grumbled, too tired to even shout anymore. He felt as if this exchange had drained every ounce of his strength, and perhaps even his soul itself.

"I'll make it back without using other people as a crutch, because I'm not a pussy."

"Riiiiight," Falco said. "And I'm not a dick."

"And I don't care to know how you found out, earlier. I..." Razul said. She appeared to finally be running out of steam. "I can be as good anybody else... I don't give a shit what you think about me... Just give me a chance and I'll show you that I can do the same things anyone else can..."

"'Whatever, Razul, if that's even your real name. It's your funeral. I'll wear a pretty dress and sob over the coffin," Falco huffed in anoyance. Those parting words might have carried some weight if they weren't both headed in the same direction. Despite traveling together, he didn't touch her or assist in any way. A few seconds later, he threw back his head and ran a hand through his hair, fighting back the urge to scream at the top of his lungs.

"What the fuck is wrong with everybody?" he said. He appeared to be speaking to himself, but not exactly being quiet about it. "Every time I do something nice for a girl, everyone's like 'ewww, Falco's a flirt,' or a pervert or whatever. What the fuck, man!? I didn't even ask to touch her tail! And even when I try to be nice to some random sparkly moron --who I didn't even know was a girl-- I get treated like the bad guy! Whatever, man. Fuck this. Fuck all of this."

As usual, he didn't know when to quit. A few seconds later, Falco spoke up again: "Oh, and for the record, I'm not 'following' you. Let's clear that up now, before you start callin' me a stalker or something. Girl or boy, you ain't got the ass for it, Razberry. Or the tits. And at the rate you're goin', you'll be dead 'fore either pops up."

"Falco? Razul?" Cressey's voice echoed off the brick walls, as if Aurelia had sent an angel to stop Falco from speaking.

But even the goddess can't stop a fool from saying foolish things: "Oh, great, here comes the other one," Falco said, rolling his eyes. "What'd I do now?" He tried to put his best I'm-not-an-asshole, I'm-just-having-a-moment look on before Cressey came into view... and probably failed, though there is something to be said of the attempt.

"Sakura, she was..." Cressey began, but had to pause to compose herself. "...She was covered in blood when we got back. Are you alright? Did something happen?"

"Nope," Falco said dryly. "Nothin.' Just us boys here, doin' boy stuff together. You know how boys can be." He wagged a finger at her. "Oh, and, whatever you do, DON'T help us. That's literally the worst thing you can do to a guy. Ask me how I know."


Interaction(s): AriAriAbabwa (Razul) / King Crimson (Cressey)

 

[RedArmyShogun]

Thea Schuerer
Location: Underground, Tylsen
​

As the others made their way in, Thea collected her prisoner, shoving him a bit as she took notice of the Fox Girl, blood was thick upon her maw and along her claws and two were missing, was some sort of battle had taken place, or had she killed them? The tribals were known for their cruelty and raiding nomadic ways, the more human off shoots of their kind normally settled in the cities and adopted the will of the Goddess, the apostate and heretical faiths held strong in ignorance with the minds of the tribals.

However, the words of explanation that Sakura offered, simply filled the knight with a white-hot rage as her jaw clenches hard enough to be auditable as her bones popped, working it side to side she speaks, spitting at the foot of the girl as she drags her prisoner over who seemed a mixture of horrified and amused. "You. Did. What?"

Each word was measured and filled with malice as the knight looks at her in pure contempt and disgust. "Prey? Prey?! He fought four of you to a standstill till he lost his life with your combined efforts, bandit or not, he was a worthy Warrior whose death should be respected, thanks given to the Goddess Aurelia that you yet live. Not prayers to your heathen filth! He was a man! A man the same as all others here this day. Enemy or not, it is beneath the lowest of the low to rob his body of what dignity it had left, then to feast on his heart to save him? How many others have you cannibalized to your heretical faith, how many have been condemned and led to damnation and defilement?"

With her hand drifting towards her sword, the bandit laughs. "This is why we never let any of these animals into our group, barely even men.. Go on lass, make her a head shorter, the Goddess knows her own don't she? Tore the heart out of our boss and stripped him bare like he was some sort of deer.. With that little cord around your neck and that shiny armor, you just going to let this go Ser Knight?" He seemed mighty chatty now and seemed to have a look of other contempt to his face with a twisted smile as he egged the knight on along. "Lou was a bit of work, but like the Knight said he..."

Cutting him off as she jerks her bindings on him in a subtle note to shut up, she stares hard and at Cephilia and then to Viv, wondering if either had anything to say. "Yes... Just what are you or we, going to do to her? We all answer to the guild now after all. Her ignorance aside this is a grave crime in eyes of the Land, Lord and Lady. As for you Bandit I full well know my faith. Ignorance is to be forgiven, corrected, but punishments for sin must be given."

With her hand still near her blade, Thea was still a bit of aways from Sakura and not an immediate threat, though clearly not pleased, her gaze looking at the woman about the same as when she had cut down the dogs, ignoring the question of the Ovil-ken for the here and now.

Interactions: AnonyMouse Topless

 

[EmperorsChosen]

Lucia Corinna Edelgarde​

Location: Cave of Sin
​

Taking a moment to tie her captive up and stow him with the others. Lucia was content with her first real battle. The adrenaline and pride almost made her forget how badly she was in need of a bath. Unfortunately, the young Caskarieth noble would be unable to bask in her accomplishment for too long as the fox would come through with Vivienne pausing to question her. Lucia heard comment of bloodied maw and paws, and instantly her gut began to wrench as images of the sight flashed in her mind.

Lucia instantly grimaced and shut her eye. She felt nauseous, but would not allow herself to display the same overt disgust that Razul had, not that she thought of the other noble as lesser for it. Inhaling carefully, Lucia stowed the urge to display her aversion. She felt slightly sick with her colleagues suggesting rat stew. This was crossing the line. What was perhaps a greater transgression is that now they were all talking about it!

The noble's head shot around as her ears caught wind of the woman's "customs". The young Caskarieth wondered if this is how the other races were, or foreigners at the least. Were they so barbaric?

She had had it. This quest. The sewer. The injured. The rat stew. The heart cannibalism. Being drenched in the disgusting water. Choosing this horrid place as a point of tribunal.

"Verily... Are we VERILY having this conversation here? Now? Can we not begone from this wretched place already and hold your deliberations in an environment of civilization?!" Lucia commented sharply. She was not quite yelling, clearly speaking at the peak of volume that could still sound somewhat composed. "I am quite over this excursion. This... this infantile attempt at hazing, the cannibalizing--Over it. I require a bath, new clothing, as well as a surgeon to attempt to rid me of my memories of the so-called purification. Not to mention that we have injured of which we have confirmed an inability to treat them in full."

While speaking, Lucia glanced over to the older Caskarieth, letting her opinions of the "rat hunt" known and then over to Thea as she spoked about the purification. How fortunate for the knight to only hear of such an action rather than see it.

"So, I implore you, with what little dignity I have left... May we please deal with this situation away from any sewer systems or decrepit caves they connect to?!"

Mentions/Interactions: @EveryoneInTheCave

 

[Thalia_Neko]

Hysydice "Hyss" Maliss

Currently: irritated
Thinking: "My scales have gotten so prickled right now, grr, it's so itchy and I hate it.."

Location: sewers
Interacting: AI10100 RedArmyShogun Topless
Mentions: Kenshin772



She heard Cephilia's words, but perhaps she was cautious, or just being thorough, she kept her glaive in place, only giving him enough room to remove his Arcanizer as instructed. When questioned if she could handle it, Hyss made the smallest nod beneath her hood. "Yes," she murmured softly. "I should be able to. People underestimate me -- based on my size."

"Not particularly," she was now speaking to the Ovil-ken who joined her, speaking back over her shoulder in a soft, husky voice through her mask. "Seems like quite normal behavior to me, when you're soundly defeated. Cornered. Broken and beaten. Though, maybe one of your size would not respond in such a way," she commented to Thal. "Or perhaps, you just think you wouldn't because of your size. The big and strong always have such over-inflated egos about themselves."

"But when a knife is pressed to your throat-" she demonstrated by eking her blade up and making the poor mage squeak in fear. Then she lowered it once more, giving him a bit of breathing room, and glanced back over her shoulder, a glassy, gleaming tint in the dark of her hood indicating her eyes. "I wonder how you'd respond, Ovil-ken."

At his question she relaxed. "Huh? Oh, uh, they did," she grumbled, barely recalling what he was asking about. Heck, she didn't really, hence her noncommittal response. "By the way," she spoke once more from under her hood, eyes now firmly back on watching the mage, blissfully unaware of his own inner feelings he was fighting with at that very moment. "That weapon, it suits you," she commented on the halberd the big guy was leaning against.

Hyss's ears pricked at the repetitive use of the word 'cannibalism'. "Cannibalization would be eating your own people. She is of a different race to that man," she said, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. The obvious thing being that that made it okay.

Thea's words were also getting under the beastkin's scaled skin. "Heathen? Heretical?" She had never liked those words. She realized in that moment, that why she respected Thea's ability to fight, she wasn't too thrilled about the person she was under that armor.

"Ssiiinn?!" Hyss's sudden hiss came out, in such a spiteful tone that sounded like her ears had just been scalded, while her forked tongue flicked out. Suddenly, revealing her beastly nature. Indicating a momentary loss of control over that nature. Such a strong-will to keep it hidden. Now, her eyes constricted, appearing like glowing azure slits under her hood, and her forked tongue was constantly flicking.

"And who decided that your god is correct. --Or rather, the most correct? Condemning and decrying Sakura's beliefs while lauding your own is the height of conceeeit!" Hyss shouted, still obviously fighting back her natural hiss. A second later, she seemingly realized she had gotten a bit too worked up and proceeded to calm down. She once more put her focus back on guarding the mage as instructed. She had even taken a couple steps towards Thea and the others in the heat of the moment, which she corrected, stepping back and placing her glaive in a threatening position against the mage.

Ignoring Lucia's complaints, she went on. "For what it's worth, I'm not sure I see anything so wrong with it. Sakura has her beliefs and customs, you have yours, just as everyone else does. It may be a bit... uncouth what she did, but to be judged so harshly over it? I don't think she should be." Hyss shrugged. "What's the difference about eating his heart and running it through with a sword or a spear, anyway? At least Sakura had a reason for what she did, others here killed without so much as a second thought. Or worse, an ounce of self-control." Her eyes flicked over to Gaius who was standing over a decapitated man. "Which you yourself were willing to do to that archer. It's a miracle you didn't cleave him in two. Oh, and, I'm not condemning such action, as I understand what a battle entails, I'm merely pointing out the hypocrisy on display. Why'ss it okay when you or anyone else kills here, but Sakura is judged for her.. -unorthodox --mm-- acshuns?"​