Fantasy The Great Games of Nye

[rozukitsune]

Narzas remained tense, her muscled coiled for the slightest aggressive action from the blond who was now studying Johan like she was trying to figure out if he was real or not. When he hopped up onto the table and sagged, her face seemed to settle on fact over fiction - and this clearly annoyed her. Her amber eyes were suddenly caught by the short and sweet message Johan flashed at her before erasing it almost as quickly. She swallowed nervously.

On the one hand, she trusted him completely and didn't really think it was possible someone might manage to do something as inane as talking her out of it. On the other hand, having real emotions other than pity and guilt regarding others was still pretty damn new to her... and she already knew herself to be terrible at games of the social variety.

Still, when he asked his question, her cheeks reddened and she nodded - her eyes serious and focused. Nothing and no one was going to come between them... they had agreed, and she would be damned if she allowed her promises to mean nothing.


----

​

The woman was distracted enough from Ren by Johan's suddenly relaxed state to worry about Ren's complete lack of reaction to her offer. He wasn't really her target anyway, youths were barely any fun at all to tease. It was so very easy to pull their strings... Johan was right, it was beneath her. She preferred the ones who at least knew how to navigate her silver tongue to some extent. When he commented on the man behind her she clucked her tongue. "Who? Him? He was already dead, darlin'. Almost everyone in this God-forsaken buildin' was before Ah got here." She sighs dramatically and snaps her fingers, and a jolt of electricity passes through the air - the man who had been cowering behind the desk all this time suddenly falling limp and regaining the pallid-pale appearance of his fellows in the other room that her energy usage had temporarily removed.

Her eyes study the tired look of her target and consider his words with an annoyed expression. "Yer no fun at all. Tell ya what though, Ah'll humor ya. Lemme do a lil' ol test 'o mine real quick... won't take but a minute. If'n you really are who ya say... Ah'll play nice with you and yer pups. Ah'll even give ya those answers, free 'a charge. Consider it an olive branch."

She smiled and curtsied, "Marjorie Melodine, at yer service kiddo. And Ah'm here lookin' into the interestin' poison they got in this place. For interested parties... Ah'm sure ya understand if'n Ah can't divulge those kind'a details." She waves a hand dismissively through the air. "Nondisclosure such and such. All that borin' shit."

After her introduction, her smile widened and her eyes darkened, "Now then... let's see who you really are."

Sparks began to fly around her body as the hem of her dress and her curls began to float and bounce with the electrical current. The static charge slowly thickened and somehow drew the room into darkness around her, leaving her in the spotlight of her electrical charge. She lifted her arms and began to hum, low and deeper than it seemed possible for a dainty little woman like her to make. The Zuànshín woman slapped her hands over the blue-haired boy's ears, but Marjorie's attention was focused entirely on Johan. As she shifted, one foot in front of the other; her legs disappeared behind thick curls of tentacles that rose up from beneath the hem of her dress. Her curls also seemed to twist and curl like tentacles themselves, writhing around her head restlessly in the supercharged atmosphere.

"L. is for the way you look at me." She seemed to float more than walk now, the tentacles supporting her across the surface of the lab and even over the tables and benches between them effortlessly.

"O. is for the only one I see." She approached Johan, her voice rich with its deep harmonics and entrancing melodies. She reached out to lay her hands on his thighs, but the man snatched her wrists before she could touch his legs. It was enough though, she saw the truth in his eyes as clear as a mirror.

Only people who were immune to her charms - via having no sexual attraction to women or (very rarely) via being truly devoted to a partner already - could reflect her true appearance at her in their eyes. To anyone else, she always looked like the vision of the thing they most desired deep in their depraved hearts. Looking at her made them long for that impossible perfection... looking into her eyes locked them to her as devoted bees or ants might be to the Queen of their hive for as long as they were in her presence: and usually the enchantment renewed itself if they were ever to meet again. But though she could sense Johan's individual soul clearly, the notes of her song bouncing off of it and harmonizing with it like an instrument in an orchestra might blend with another - he really had somehow removed himself from her enthralled minions.

"V. is very very... extraordinary." She continued, relenting and stepping back away to give him space - though she had an ulterior reason for doing so. Her eyes now followed the dance of the music of Johan's soul to the connection deep at it's source. She was honestly not expecting the object of his affection to be standing right next to him though. Her eyebrows rose as she really noticed Narzas for the first time.

"E. is even more than anyone that you adore and..." A Zuànshín... really? Didn't he know what vile two-faced monsters those people were? She was going to have to do something about this. She might have respected the choice if it was at least someone prettier than herself. Someone higher up in the echelon's of society, certainly! But this looked like one of the castoffs of that society. One of the infinitely expendable types. Marge was offended on Johan's behalf.

She sunk down to the floor and turned her eyes back up to the man on the table sadly, feeling a deep pity within her as her tentacles slowly retracted. "Love, is all that I can give to you. Love is more than just a game for two."

She would have to do something about this. No one made a laughing stock out of Marjorie Melodine and got away with it. No one.

Tears welled up in her eyes as she sagged to the floor. "Two in love can make it..." the final plea of her soul for Johan to see some reason before it was too late.

"Take my heart, but please don't break it." Seeing the icy glare returned to her, she sighed and released her magic with the final notes of her somber melody. "Love was made for me and you."

Jet ZackStop Lost Echo Huntertabbysandshark3

 

[Huntertabbysandshark3]

Ava Marco
Interaction: Jet Lost Echo​

"probably all bullshit anyway, knowing our luck if this is like those stories books he's super involved or betraying the guys we are after or something, something third party because this really feels like a story ya know?" Ava replied with an irritated huff. crossing her arms once more staring down at the ground and kicking her feet in the dust. then looking towards Anya again quirking an eyebrow when she mentioned something was going on inside. "what what the hell's going on in there? seriously??? should we go in there and help do they have it handled??? or what?" Ava would exclaim worry filling her expression with all the hurt and annoyance recently it her usual jovial demeanor was all but erased least for the time being now she just wanted to know if the other that where brought with em where fine..

 

[Jet]

Adrian lit his blade revealing the path laid before them, more black mud with stones for little steps. The grass grew untamed and wild in the darkness of the cavern, leaning over the path as vermin skittered by. "Strange," he muttered as rats followed in the shadows. Like they were guided by some grand intelligence. Their squeaks and chatters grew louder as they ventured into the heart of darkness. The center of a black hole where nothing escaped.

Adrian's gut was screaming bloody murder, something wasn't right. The air was unnaturally still and the totems, covered in unholy markings, seemed to hum wifh unnatural power. "This place; something's wrong."

"Damn the lawn mower. We should burn it to the ground — salt the earth." He narrowed his eyes as the shack came into view. He immediately noticed how decrepit it was. The rotten beams hanging by tattered threads. The smell of stangnant mist in the freezing air; like a swamp in the dead of winter. His stomach turned at the atmosphere of the place. The rotten herbs dangling from the side of the shack. The carvings scratched on the wooden walls. How they mirrored the dreams of a madman.

"I was wrong," he droned. "This is no common criminal." He went around the side and checked one of the windows. There was light through a gap in the drapes. "Looks like someone's home... and they're watching us." He slowly turned as teeming vermin, thousands of rats and black beetles, stared from the pure darkness. Their eyes were like stars dotting the sky. "No point in being stealthy then."

He withdrew his other sword and was about to bust down the door, when it slowly opened on its own accord. The hinges whined and wood creaked like a ghost ship. The darkness within seemed to creep out from the doorway, sucking light from his firey sword.

"What is this place?" He said as a shadow appeared in the doorway. It was hunched and small but human nonetheless. The worst monster of them all. "Who are you?"

"We've been waiting for you." It seemed the shadow was an old woman. "Three boys will come when fires are lit. Each bears a great shame! Each touched by the giver of gifts!"

"She's seen you dearies, your faces scattered in rat bones; jagged and cracked! Sweet marrow sucked dry!" The woman stepped halfway from the darkness. Her face was pale white and dried like old meat. Her cheeks were gaunt and her hands, cracked and covered with cuts, were wrapped in yellow rags. "You must be tired after such a long walk," she said with a sick smile. "Come! Come inside! You must rest before the reading."

Goliath
Arcanist

 

[Goliath]

“Adamaris..” Elriel whispered under his breath as the other said to spare them. The mere thought of leaving his friend here to die alone made him nauseous. No. They had been apart long enough; there was no way he’d abandon them now, even in death.

His head snapped forward again, suddenly hearing laughter from the bearded man while exhaling a breath he hadn’t realized he had been holding. The sound was much better than a command to attack.

Tensions were obviously still high, observing closely as the two foreign men bickered at one another. But he was glad to have the attention off of them for a moment. Elriel was surprised Audin had supposedly foreseen the events at the Great Games beforehand. And the bit about ‘making it to a tree’ specifically stood out to him as odd.

He looked at the new face, who carried himself in a more distinguished way than the others. Edmund. And his answer was — witchcraft?

Sure. Elriel had read a few books on the topic in his father’s library over the years. But there was nothing ever discussed about an orb like that nor glowing crystals. Mostly potions and charms.

Maybe it was possible. But Elriel couldn’t help but feel Magnus was mocking them. He opened his mouth to speak before Darius jumped in to defend what they said as the truth, followed by what they were truly here for. Nodding slowly in agreement. Rumors simply weren’t enough.

Elriel was thankful the centurion seemed to hold no grudge for keeping the crystal a secret from him. If anything, Darius now also seemed curious why Ada was chosen. — Not that their request went well.

Magnus returned to the same phrase as earlier, ‘not given, but earned,’ knowing then that they were being doubted. Told to turn tail and run. “I respect your opinion, sir. Truly and humbly. No offense taken,” He bowed politely before standing once more.

“But to us, this is more than just for ourselves. We are unsure of the assailant's goal. If it was a one-time attack or if there is a greater motive at play that will lead to war for all who oppose them,“ he spoke passionately, his voice filling the hall as his purple eyes sparkled.

“The piles of innocent bodies; centurions viewed as the world's strongest, now no less vulnerable to an attack than a child and their newly manifested familiar. It has left Nye nothing short of weakened. Lord, this is our part to play, and we are not so naive to not know we may die trying to pursue our mission's end.”

“Still..” he smiled, looking down at Adamaris before putting a hand on the other’s shoulder, “we are willing to put it all on the line. To earn the crystals. So please tell us how to proceed. Right Ada?”

Emphoa (Adamaris) Jet (Darius)

 

[Anne Boolean]

The mention of an explosion from Bean normally would have been concerning, but in his current state, all Nyaall could go was gleefully agree. "Okay!" He followed along with the others, noting the song that Bean was humming. He had he heard it before? Maybe... or maybe Bean's taste was different than the kind of music he was usually used to. His attention soon shifted to the company they had found themselves in though.

The cat boy eyed the masks. Many were lavish, adorned with features of precious metals and gems to resemble animal features. A few stood out: ones made of wood and decorated with vines. The sudden change in Bean's tone caught Nyaall off-guard. In a moment of seeming sobriety, he responded to the story with the respect it deserved. "Ah... I'm sorry to hear that..."

Once they approached the security check, unlike Bean, Nyaall's pace slowed to a halt. He watched the exchange the Centurion had with the guards. Guess there were more sides to this kid than just silly and serious. The light-user stumbled into the best defensive stance he could muster when weapons were drawn, although in reality, his instinct at the moment was leaning towards flight as opposed to fight. He more than happily went along with Vixie's urging to step back, still having enough self-preservation to not want to get caught in the crossfire.

Thankfully, it seemed things didn't need to come to that. With impeccable perfect timing, a man stepped in and ordered the guards to put away their weapons. Nyaall wasn't quite ready to relax just yet though, and with Vixie's nails digging to him his arm, he knew he wasn't the only one still on edge. This man knew who they were. He was used to his own reputation preceding him, but his eyes drifted to Viv upon the well-dressed gentleman mentioning her. With how popular the games were, and the lengths his management went to to make sure his match had good coverage, logically it made sense that the person who defeated him would become well-known. And yet... hearing people speak with familiarity about her in this part of town caused the hairs on the back of his neck to stand.

He allowed himself to ease to a natural stance, but not without taking a step in between the man and Vivian. He glanced at Bean, who voiced confusion with an expression of disappointment. When the Centurion decided to follow though, Nyaall did so as well, shooting a glance to Vixie every so often as they walked.

Unease was causing him to sober up. Part of him wanted to roll his eyes at the posh mannerisms and flowery words the man spoke, demeanor he had become very familiar with over the years, but the sensible part of him was now strong enough to hold himself back from scoffing at their savior. The description of the Enclave was everything drunk Nyaall would have wanted to hear, and even quite a bit of what sober Nyaall wanted to hear, but they were quite literally in uncharted territory now. If it was just him, things might have been different, but even with a Centurion, he didn't want to risk the well-being of someone so young.

"Nice to meet you, sir," he said to the introduction, aiming to stay on the man's good side for as long as possible. He once again looked over to Vixie when she spoke up. "I'd like if we did," he said. "Or at least she did." She had loved ones, and who knew what the people here would be capable of?

Jet Lost Echo

 

[Emphoa]

Adamaris perked up when Magnus seemed to know the name of the very individual he had been up against. Blinking in surprise, they wondered what more they would have known about Audin. What exactly had he been trying to do back in Nye? They pursed their lips together at the thought, but listened quietly while the man seemed to be thrilled to be talking about their opponent from before. A tree... They placed a knuckle to their chin, their eyebrows furrowed as they spoke of its response to witchcraft of all things. They spared a glanced towards Elriel before they focused back on Magnus.

They relatively let Darius take the lead for a moment, their eyes trailed over to the man as they studied him and nodded ever so slightly while they listened to him speak. Finally, they looked back at Magnus and frowned as they were warned against going further to get more gems. They seemed to hesitate before looking back at Elriel beside them and searching his expression. They couldn't help but smile fondly at their friend- and admired how he always seemed to be so good with his words before they nodded in agreement.

"It is true." They spoke up, and they gave a more determined look towards Magnus as they straightened up their posture. "We have to do this for those we've lost... and those we can hopefully still protect." They admitted, thinking of Elriel's father, before their eyes flitted back up onto the lord and they sucked in a breath. "We do not plan to take this journey lightly- or as a walk in the park, either. It wouldn't do us well to treat it with disrespect, but we have to do this."

They felt their chest tighten at the thought, what sort of journey would they have ahead of them? Would they be able to push through such a thing? Would the gems really be that helpful? Well...

They supposed it was worth a shot, and they cocked their head to the side as they looked back at the lord. "But knowing more of Audin would also be good, to know what his motives were... or why he would be competing in Nye."

Goliath Jet

 

[ManofManyRoles]

𝓜𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓸𝓻 '𝓜𝓪𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓴' 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓮𝓻
As the cold rain came down to pelt the trio of faces making their way towards the merchant, Mav seemed entirely unbothered by the frigid temperature of it all...and if it did bother him, he didn't show it. "I can't help but feel like absconding south would result in the Centurion hunting us down, and I have no desire to run for my life at this moment." He had plenty of experience with that, and was (un)fortunately quite good at it...that didn't mean he'd enjoy the spring from an annoyed Darius, however. As Zak's teeth chattered, and he shivered, Mav glanced over at him, that neutral expression unreadable. And yet, Zak would find the rain had stopped pelting him. Indeed if he looked up, a small invisible 'umbrella' was over his head as the rain parted away from him. A simple nod of his head was all Zak got as indication Mavior was the one responsible, his own skin now slick with rain and his hair matted to his scalp. Attention then went back ahead towards the northern woman they followed. "Well met, Arnheid, daughter of Elgard." It was a simple refrain of greeting, but more than most may have gotten from him. Then again, were the other parts of her introduction how she should be addressed at each greeting? Perhaps not, but how could he tell? Hopefully there would be clarification on that.

As the group made their way into the little lodging Zak could see his little 'umbrella' promptly disappear as he made his way inside and the rain now fell freely again. Though that didn't stop the sudden gust of warm air that suddenly rushed around Zak, Ivan, and Mav like some invisible serpent that wished to warm chilled bones and frigid skin before disappearing into the ether from once it came. "I believe that is his jest, yes," he replied simply to Arnheid's mock of "with you?" Out of instinct Mav stepped to the side as she spun about however at the mention of the cyrstals, like he expected her to charge them in that moment...something that fortunately was not done. "Would you be kind enough to explain why we should not have them, and what they be then, ma'am? We would be just as lost as you as the meaning of this, I suspect...lest you know something more, Zak? Ivan?"

​

Jet EldridSmith

 

[Jet]

Johan recoiled at the writhing mass of tentacles. The manipulative lyrics and that fucking look — like she wanted to devour his soul. He stepped back when she was close enough to touch him, bumping a table as his hands became fists. He wanted to attack her right then and there. To end the game in one moment of raw violence, but then again, despite her manipulative words and predatory gaze, she'd done nothing to deserve death — not yet anyway.

"This isn't—

His mind was suddenly a storm of visions and feelings, a magnetism to the vile woman. It was like a siren luring sailors to the sea. Their bodies carried away as tentacles wrapped around their chests. Their faces covered in clams as stomachs swelled and burst; as gulls plucked their eyes and picked at their innards. Their bodies becoming one with the sea. It was all one big lie, and he wanted to succumb to it. He wanted to close his eyes and drift with the black waves. The gentle song of love and longing. The warm emotions that were so...

Wrong.

"This doesn't make any sense!" He sliced his forearm with his dagger, focusing on his pain instead of the trance. "We're not here to play—

"To play your games." He sliced his arm again, blood dripped to the floor and within every drop, potent and steaming hot, was the rage he felt for her. "We need—

"To find out what—

"What happened here." He looked over at Narzas, the woman who'd actually been there for him. The one who'd defended him time and time again, who'd put everything on the line for him. That was real. Not whatever this feeling was.

"Fuck!"

He plugged his ears and stared at the eerie, slithering monster. Her tentacles writhed like ravenous beasts. "Remove yourself from my head, or this room will become a battleground."

"And if you so much as hurt them," he snarled at the vixen. "If you try anything!"

His familiar peaked over his shoulder. "You know the rest... but if you're willing to take this seriously, maybe we can help each other."

"We're also after the poison." He spared a glance at the others, hoping they could overcome the assault. He would keep Marje talking until then, and if they couldn't escape? If they succumbed to her manipulative charms? He would pierce her with a thousand lasers. He wouldn't stand by as an innocent young man — young enough to be his son, was tormented like a dog. He wouldn't twidle thumbs as Narzas, a woman he cared for with every ounce of his being, was twisted and abused for sport. He would end things quickly in that case.

"We could share notes, share leads, our information? Everything we know." He walked around Marje and paced the area behind her, hoping to draw her attention from the others. "We have our differences... many of them, but now the enemy of my enemy is my friend."

rozukitsune ZackStop

 

[Fred Colon]

Bracken had been wrong. The little cups were not so they would get less drunk, they were used for what appeared to be *more* concentrated alcohol. Bracken, unfortunately, learned this too late. After only a few shots, Bracken was seeing double. He felt sleepy, and a little sick, but still it was... fun. Especially as he sat and mostly listened to the others talk. He understood why people did this. Why they would get together and drink alcohol as a group. He didn't understand those who did it alone, as he knew some did, but it was more insight into the habit than he'd had before.

Alcohol made talking even more difficult, so Bracken didn't say much. He nodded along as Rat and Mischa spoke to him, contributing to the conversation as best he could with hand gestures and smiles. But eventually, an eventually that came quite quickly, Bracken was asleep in his chair, the alcohol too much for him.

When he woke, it was with a splitting headache. A headache that was made significantly worse by Daltons shouting. He stood with the others, rubbing his temples and groaning under his breath. He had been having so much fun, but now he felt like he was regretting last night. Was it worth this pain?

When they landed, he staggered to the side and tried his best to look out. He had imagined coming back home so many times. He had missed it so much after the crowded, stifling city of Nye, and the terrible events that had transpired there. But now he was barely able to keep his eyes open. His excitement muted by his headache.

"Many... reasons... gone. Monster. Tribe." He waved a hand in the air, as if to signify everything that could have caused their absence, before he dropped down onto the ground. Still rubbing his temples, he moved to aid Ilyana, using his wings to generate enough lift to leap onto one of the nearby buildings. He focused less on the outpost, and more on the natural environment around it, trying to see if anything was out of place.

Jet Emphoa Goliath ZackStop

 

[ZackStop]

Spivey continued their casual glide in the canopy of this foreign jungle, stopping only for a moment on a branch. They rolled their shoulder and places both hands on their hips to so to pop a joint or two. "Fuck, I'm gonna be soar..." As the rough landing crossed their mind, so too did the big slithery thing. The merc cloaked in black couldn't help but wonder what just happened now that they were closer to sober. "Bet that marching band guy attracted that damn thing. Atleast me and it share the same music taste!" They let out a laugh at their little jab at Baryn even if he wasn't there to hear it.

Unfortunately they soon found that their laugh began to attract the wrong kind of attention, ironically the exact thing Spivey was worried about came to fruition. The metal boots began to spray out air in preparation for another take off when suddenly, a swift black shape came pouncing out of the trees, scraping away some blue paint from Spivey's boot. "What in the- god damn-" The strike was enough to send them off course, falling to the ground below where it was incredibly dim from the trees above. At the very least, they didn't land on their back this time. Belly flopping instead, Spivey laid there pathetically, but more so in a state of 'I'm so done.'

They pushed off of the ground to get to their feet as Spivey soon found three big cats that were as dark as the scene, mostly visibility from the golden glow in their menacing eyes. "This jungle is just full of surprises." They said readying their cannon. Three beeps sounded in order of increasing tones that accompanied three blue lights as each lit up. But almost in response to the sound, a jaguar came soaring in an arc above Spivey, nearly clipping the gas mask, but in a swift motion the mercenary proved said mettle, avoiding the attack and countering. They gauged the exact spot the cat would land before it made it's descent, before blasting it into a tree, a sharp 'THOOMP' escaping their weapon. The darkness was briefly made way for the fiery sparks, the piercing claws across metal like nails on a chalk board, and the bludgeoning sound of the cannon making contact with flesh, like a brutal dance, a violent song playing in the depths of the green, rustling and crunching of leaves under foot. Spivey could feel the slight sharpness on the inside of their thumb as air escaped the barrel. They loved the sting of a good recoil, partially masochistic perhaps, but it made them effective, and ever present in the heat of combat. Sharp and focused.

It wasn't much longer as the audible excitement in the brush died, and what felt like complete silence was all that was left. The birds chirping and faintest sound of rushing water could not fill the gaps that was left after the skirmish, not the way a foreign sound of whizzing air could. Spivey made their exit and landed on the nearest branch before gliding once more. "What a rush! Though, I could use some of this nice elixir." Pulling out said elixir from one of their pouches, a half empty bottle or Jack, Spivey took a generous gulp. Thankfully they didn't try to throw it again.

The sound of rushing water began to get loud as Spivey continued towards the crashed ship, when there was the sound of voices, shouting even. Didn't sound familiar at all, but upon laying eyes on the sight, Spivey quickly recognized the duo. 'Legs' aka Esther, or the other way around, and Brynwyr, who was not previously introduced and had no name attached to the face. Two beautiful women completely drenched, glistening in the sun as warm as their smiles as they splashed eachother playfully in the river. That last bit was only in Spivey's head, but a merc can dream. Still, they wondered what bathing suits Esther and Brynwyr would dawn given the chance. Now that would be a sight, but alas, this was a much more dire situation. Luckily no one seemed too hurt having fallen in the water rather than ground.

Hovering over to a nearby tree and squatting, Spivey watches the two recover from the fall and head to shore. Taking a seat on the tree branch, the masked figure got comfortable before making their presence known. In that same familiar voice, crackled and distorted, the deep almost robotic voice spoke. "Well well, two wet ladies gorgeous head to toe. Did the fall kill me? Because I think I've made it to heaven." They then went right to unscrewing the top of their bottle, using the rim to push the gas mask up away from their mouth to take a sip.

Jet Arcanist Lost Echo EldridSmith Monbon

 

[Goliath]

Leon could not help but snort at Rat’s first-ever drink of alcohol, which turned into a full belly laugh as he watched the other’s familiar make a face of disgust after smelling the glass. It was absolute gold.

Truthfully, the redhead had only been messing with Mischa, though she took the bait. He watched her take shot after shot, whereas Leon eventually stopped, not getting so drunk he wasn’t in his right mind anymore, just a strong buzz. Leon did not trust what he could say if he completely cut loose, not that she was sober enough to notice.

Leon turned to Rat, away from the rather funny conversation happening between Mischa and Bracken. “Who me? Fine—I’m fine. This ain’t nothin'..” he hand waved dismissively. His mood was happy, no different than he usually was.

“You’ve not drunk very much. Do you really hate it?” He asked, showing he was still more in his right mind than Rat may have believed. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell her,” he winked.

Leo couldn’t help but smile at the hand placed on his shoulder. “Water..pshhh..maybe she does,” he chuckled, gesturing back to the others..only to hear Mischa calling him the weirdest by insulting his speech. Which truthfully..hurt his feelings.

Not that he’d ever admit it, dropping his head slightly as he remembered that he..wasn’t as close as the pair. And probably never would be. Throwing back another drink to numb the sudden pain he felt.

It was no surprise to Leon that Bracken was the first out. But still, he was glad the male had decided to join them, spending a while longer talking before he eventually dragged his feet and made his way to his own room. Collapsing hard on the bed while his fingers rubbed the charm on his bracelet.

The early morning whistle reminded him of home. His dad yelling up the stairs that it was time to feed the animals. But this time, Leon head was pounding from an intense hangover, heading up to the deck dressed in long sleeves. Though it was still cold to him.

His pale complexion only showed his eye bags that much more while they were yelled at. Maybe it was stupid. But was being compared to modern art pieces supposed to be an insult? Though being told to unfuck himself almost made the redhead laugh. Seriously having to hold it back not wanting to get in anymore trouble.

Ilana getting second in command didn’t bother him; he did not want it anyway. Instead Leon followed to the railing, looking at the settlement. Kade. During the briefing, they were told he was a centurion who went missing. But that was truthfully all he knew. Still, it looked nice enough to him.

Leon took a step out onto the sandy ground. But his head whipped around when Dalton asked where everyone was, suddenly feeling on edge. And Illana’s snarky comment about natives and Bracken’s somehow more detailed guess didn’t help. But then the two with experience here were gone.

“It looks like Bracken and Ilana are going that way. Then do we want to try the other direction?” He spoke, gesturing toward the building on the opposite side of town before heading off. Unsure if they would join him or not.

Jet (Mischa) Emphoa (Rat) ZackStop (Ilana) Fred Colon (Bracken)

 

[EldridSmith]

Zulan nodded as the captain left, clearly with a lot on their proverbial plate. The guide soon appeared making comments with wide eyes on seeing the group. He along with Charlie fit in well it seemed, but the others the guide's eyes showed would need help with blending in. A comment regarding Renn not actually being Renn, and other such banter. Zulan said nothing in the meantime as he let the guide take care of the others. Soon it was time for them to jump, he was expecting a back door exit, but it was no surprise considering the situation. How they would avoid prying eyes was another question, but as far as he was concerned he had plenty of ways out of it.

Zulan was sick of Kilderkin's act at this point and entirely ignored her as he prepared to jump. He focused instead on Kwame as he nodded at the idea of re-configuring the armor into something more easily hidden. The metal sphere must have been extremely dense considering how much metal was put into it, the item itself would be an effective weapon. He nodded at his remarks to being one man and not failing them. He was glad to see the man could keep his wits about him.

"I suggest getting your clothes dirty to avoid suspicion especially since you're a recognizable figure Kwame... and I must say the same for you Renn." He remarked as he stood behind Kwame, there would plenty of chances for the group to grime up on their way to their destination. He took up the man's offer for the platform, though he was still uncertain how they would avoid being spotted and hunted for this. "I hope you are a light user Gailene, otherwise I can make a smoke column but it'd be more obvious than the alternative." He remarked making it clear that as it stood they would stand out heavily without some kind of cover. If no one could disguise them he would use his fire to make a column of smoke to hide them.

He was pleased with Charlie's initiative and looking after Renn, he hadn't much to remark as they were on similar wavelengths, though Charlie's a good bit higher on the violence scale than his own. Evaline was also of similar mind to himself, though how much so he had yet to ascertain. He could tell Evaline was looking forward to seeing another blacksmith. On the topic of open carry he had no remarks as he himself was his weapon considering the thick carapace he had around his normal body. "Whatever helps us blend in best I say." He remarked and left it at that as he looked around to see how filthy the street was, and it was indeed nasty. He located a large area of mud and fell into it back first before standing up and spreading it around to his front and face before drying off with fire. "As I mentioned before, I suggest we grime up to blend in... especially mud on your faces." He remarked to Renn and Kwame, though it wouldn't hurt the others to also do the same.

Fred Colon rozukitsune ManofManyRoles Emphoa Jet

 

[Jet]

​

"Good." Tawny was happy she liked machines as much as he did. They were the one thing he understood. The one thing he could talk about. He was an empty shell without the schematics floating in his head. "Watch." He passed his hand over her mechanical arm. His fingers were an inch away from touching her metal skin, but he didn't need to make contact. Proximity was more than enough.

"So... weird?" His eyebrows knitted with concern. "Why is it like that?"

"Well met Felix!" Isaac said in the other room. He could hear the teens but chose to leave them alone; it was better to give them space. "I'd formally introduce myself under different circumstances, but you've heard my name enough to make you vomit!" His smile faded and he slowly grew serious. He leaned forward like he was about to share a grand conspiracy, pressing his palms against the table. There he stayed for a moment, thinking about what to say; how to broach a topic so strange, most would sputter in his face.

"Despite your trust in me, you may find this impossible to believe." He glanced back at the door, hushing his voice as he said, "Tawny. He was found in a sealed construct deep underground, impossibly deep I should say."

"He was trapped within a stasis field of sorts, like time ceased within its confines. Who knows how long he'd been there... where he's from or what he is, perhaps not even human."

Meanwhile, Tawny turned away and stared at his work table. It was covered with rusty parts and pieces of torn wire, metal bars and old cogs. It was all junk. There wasn't a single piece worth more than its weight in iron, but he saw treasure in the trash. He saw a schematic plan for a metal arm in his head, and as he envisioned it, the parts moved on their own accord. They rose in the air and intertwined like creeping vines; wires twisted around each other and formed strong connections, scrap folded and merged into solid pieces of steel, and cogs crumpled into spheres for elbow and finger joints. Then a steel chunk, no bigger than a rubix cube, stretched out and thinned into a metal sheet, spreading over the arm like butter across bread, giving it a shiny metal skin.

"I can copy." He looked at Yua without any emotion in his eyes, like his power was a common occurrence. "Make new stuff too."

Isaac noticed the buzz of magic from the other room, shrugging as he said, "It's incomprehensible what he can do."

"To him, technology responds like it were alive, as if he breaths life into the steel. He can build items of immense power." Isaac tensed for a moment, remembering when Antov saved Tawny. The ocean of blood that was spilled that day. Isaac was a pacifist but in that moment, knowing what those men were planning, knowing what they'd done to a boy — even he was happy they were gone. "It's no wonder he was taken and used as a pawn."

"I know this seems incredible, but the west harbors many secrets. Ancient magic that defies our understandings. You must abandon your learnings in this land, or be driven mad by what you discover."

ManofManyRoles

 

[Lost Echo]

Gailene turned to stare at Kilderkin incredulously as the woman seemed to belt out each name. Who the hell did Nye send with them? This chick didn’t seem to realize the serious situation they were in. When she finished with Renn, her silver hair whipped outward as she flicked toward her. “No…” she muttered under her breath. “Nope. Not dealing with that. That’s above my paygrade.” She was definitely going to be worse than killed on a stage. Instead she looked back to the “helpful” blonde. “Kilderkin, right? You’re gonna have to keep quiet when we’re down there. You know that right?” Since that wasn’t readily apparent.

Then the rough looking girl spoke up about disguises. “I already said you were pretty good. A little clean-” but then the rest of the sentence registered. “Wait a second. You guys were in the games?” She looked at the group skeptically. “I didn’t watch: we’ve been too busy here. Though the first day’s always boring anyway.” She paused, then added, “No offense.” Shaking her head, she continued. “Nah, disguises are cuz outside of our soldiers, no one else ever comes to Xysma. We want you to blend in with the populace. And we cut privileges such as showers last week when the riots got bad. So dirty’s the way to go.”

At least Charlie seemed interested in her surroundings. “That was Fransisco Escarra.” She jabbed her thumb in the general direction of behind her, not really toward the stage. “He ain’t Xysman. He’s Nye. They’ve come in and riled everyone to shit. Nobody’d “rebel” otherwise. As for open carry--no one but soldiers should be armed on Xysma. The bastards from Nye managed to smuggle some in, but if your weapons are obvious, then you’ll stand out.”

Her attention was grasped by the centurion, and she watched, a little awed, as Mr. Shiny gathered up his shine into a small sphere. He was still much more put together than any random bloke on Xysma would be, but it was better. Black at least was good for hiding. But then he promised to find those responsible for the ‘madness’ that had to mean the riots. “You think they’re connected?” She asked sharply, wishing she had a way to report that to her cousin. Knowing Elyscia, she already had suspicions, for that’s what the paranoid woman was made of. Still, for the centurion to assume the same…

Then he offered an out to everyone. Gailene was surprised. That wasn’t usually an option on military runs. Still, she supported it. “Yeah, you might be put to work in the castle, but if you want to stay, have at it.” She waved a hand down the hall, hoping Kilderkin and Renn (especially if that was the real one) would take the out.

He was a mystery. As she climbed onto the created platform, a little wary, for all that if it collapsed she could land safely, she listened to his assurances. The third strongest. Was that why he was sent instead of one of those spies? Were they that worried of losing another? At Zulan’s comment she snorted, “Nah, I’m Gailene. I’m air. Still this alley should be sheltered enough to not attract too much attention. Not with all the chaos on their little stage.” It'd looked like they were offering the soldier's body to the crowd when she was on her way in.

For a moment she couldn’t place where the sudden stench came from, almost assuming it was something new set on fire. Glancing back, the guide’s eyes widened as she realized it was coming from one of her charges. Thankfully Charlie proved to have a head on her shoulders, stopping the woman from doing more. With a wave of her hand, she summoned the smoke to her, she pushed the smell toward the trash, letting it blend there instead of drift on the wind.

Landing softly, undisturbed by the trash around her, Gailene darted to the end of the street. Though there were echoes of people, likely coming quickly, it was clear for the moment. At the centurion’s and fake Hydraline’s question, she affirmed “He’s a good man. He’s against the rebellion, but yeah. Mostly he’ll do it to keep more of you from being sent. To actually, you know, kill the riots.”

With Zulan’s suggestion of mud, she scuffed the dirty rock beneath her feet. “That’s why we’re gonna use ash--it hasn’t rained in days, but fire…yeah, there’s been lots of fire.” She returned to the end of the street, frowning at the increased noise. “We gotta go. We’ll be crossing a couple of streets, but mostly sticking to alleys. Stay quiet.” She specifically said this to Kilderkin.

Fred Colon Jet rozukitsune ManofManyRoles Emphoa EldridSmith

 

[Lost Echo]

At least Ren seemed to realize this woman was bad news. Kallos wondered who had been his protector, keeping him safe and willing to speak whatever came to his mind. Whoever it was, was likely a good person. Johan drew her attention once more, first to protect the boy, then continuing to question her. The crane settled back, his wings wrapped around himself in a more neutral position, as Narzas seemed to relax.

At his name, Kallos turned his head and nodded just slightly. His focus drew front again as the woman, Marjorie, proposed a test. He could do nothing to dissuade the batman, for all he believed it to be a bad idea. As the electricity grew heavy in the air, the crane was undisturbed, merely straightening in front of Ren and spreading his wings to block his sight as Narzas covered his ears. He watched, confused and horrified, as the woman seemed to grow tentacles that reached for Johan. She spoke of love, suddenly pulling away before she was finished spelling it, and beginning to cry? This was beyond anything Kallos knew how to deal with. She’d already established herself as dominant. Why would she think they’d believe the act?

~​

“I have no idea. I don’t want to interrupt and distract them. Still… Kallos is really freaked out by whatever’s happening. It’s definitely not over.” Going to the door, Anya pressed her face against the glass, trying to look in. “I don’t see them.” She reported after a few moments of scanning through the dead bodies. “They must be in the offices they mentioned.” She knew whatever happened, the noise of the crowds would announce their entrance. “I’m not sure how much help we’d be.” She turned to look at Ava. "Would you be okay going in there?" she asked, remembering her reaction.

ZackStop rozukitsune Jet
~
Huntertabbysandshark3

 

[Jet]

​

Magnus took a long sip from his cup; foam dripped from his mouth as he emptied his long drinking horn. He wiped his beard and then leered at the young nobles, leaning his head back by a hair. Like he was appraising their worth as men. "You are young, and young men are fools. How little you know of the ways of the world, like frogs trapped at the bottom of a well, seeing only a shard of the sky."

"For I have no reason to save Nye. When has the floating gem saved our rocky shores? When have they sent emissaries? When have they delivered aid? I should expell you to the sea for coming on their behest, set adrift without the comfort of your treasures! Exposed to the biting gale!"

"Aye! The blonde slammed his mug on the table. "They've no place among us!"

"Here here," said another man. "They'd make fine sea wood!"

"What is this?" Darius said. "I thought we'd parlay in good faith, not be treated like criminals! Have you already forgotten?" He took a pendant from his pocket, shined silver with a kraken symbol. He threw it on the table before approaching the old king. "Theseus, a centurion of Nye saved your life! How can you claim we've never helped?"

"Aye he was a good man." Magnus smirked at the centurion. "He was told to abondon us at the hour of our need, ordered by your city of snakes! He defied them to ensure the safety of our lives, and for that I owe him my sword."

"But to Nye I owe nothing." He looked back at the young men, a mischievous spark was in his eyes. He knew his men weren't going to like this. "However!"

"Who am I to deny man's quest for adventure? His thirst for an early grave! His dreams of vengeance woven by the norns of fate! How can I squander such a tale? The allfather would sooner forgive a snake!"

"No!" The blonde stood with such speed and vigor, his chair toppled to the floor. "I will not see the path disgra—

"SILENCE!" Magnus pointed his sword at the man. "You will know your place Skall, or be reminded of it. I will not turn from those seeking the world's edge, even if they are fools destined to die there!"

He looked back at the nobles once more, tempering fury as his nostrils flared wifh rage. He took a long breath and when his anger finally ebbed, he asked them, "But I must know, who has been taken from you? Who have the norns sent you to avenge? By the allfather you must speak their names. The gods must hear your fury, they must know your heart thirsts for blood! Only then will they guide you to the edge of the world... and even with their guidance, the path is rife with peril."

"Indeed, it is good you are prepared to work yourselves to the bone, for so many have failed before you." He paused for a moment, taking interest in Adamaris. The question of Audin went beyond what he knew, but there were those who could help. "It seems Audin rose above the trials you will face; perhaps he met with the tree tenders at the mount of Pwyn. They could have the answers you seek."

Goliath Emphoa

[/FONT]

 

[ZackStop]

Ren fully understood that he was the youngest in the room, a 16-year-old in a room full of adults, each seeming to be after another's throat but his. Even still, he wasn't sure how to feel about being called kiddo or how to feel about Narzas, the same woman who had no problem killing a man right in front of him, now trying to protect him from the siren before them. It was a little frustrating for him. He felt like he was being underestimated, but didn't have much experience to go off. Ren just wanted to take care of himself. He just wanted to be strong.

He was about ready to whip out his trusty screwdriver, well, one of his many trusty screwdrivers, but the one he had on him. The way she spoke to Johan sounded like a threat, like she was ready to attack, hence preparing to act. Before he could though, electricity filled the air like a pylon had gone out of control right in the center of it. Ren practically felt his hair stand up from the charge the woman had conducted, but it was then that things got a lot weirder. Some sort of spell suddenly came over the woman, or possibly it was Ren who was under a spell. Whichever it was, Marjorie Melodine appearance began to change, wispy and abstract at first, but what soon took shape was a younger woman with golden blonde hair underneath a straw hat and with deep green eyes that pierced his soul.

"What the..." Ren uttered, but was unable to finish the sentence as he was taken aback by the girl's beauty. Despite being several feet away, it felt as though his vision was zoomed in on her facial features basked and glistening in sunlight. Pale skin topped with rosy cheeks that were embraced by her hugging golden locks that went down to her shoulders. He dared not lower his gaze beyond those shoulders, his face reddened at just the thought of it. If this was real it would surely mean disaster, but if one thing was for certain it would be that the whole experience was very dreamy, like time was standing still. If this was a dream however, looking down would certainly be worse. He was only human, and his imagination could run wild, but the teen tried his damnedest to keep his thoughts pure. It was proving to be a herculean task.

The difficulty only increased as she began to speak, the mystery girl's supple lips stretched into a grin before parting to utter Ren's name. It was just like sailor at sea, being beckoned into the depths by beautiful mermaids, or maybe sirens. Ren tried to look away, even making an attempt to sidestep out of the room in all his awkward glory, but just as things were getting 'good' or possibly bad if Ren was said sailor so to speak, Nazras clapped her hands over his ears.

"Gah!" Ren jumped a little in response. The woman could have done so in a less violent fashion, but at the risk of making him deaf, the auditory component of the spell was nullified. Soon after, Kallos came in with the save, blinding him at the risk of serving Ren feathers for lunch. "Pfff-bleh! Was poultry on the menu?" He dry spat. "What's- what's going on?" All Ren could hear was that familiar 'trembling sound' that came when one covers their ears, the muffled sound of his own voice as he spoke, and the heartbeat coming from Narzas' hands that were tightly pressed against his head.

Jet rozukitsune Lost Echo Huntertabbysandshark3

 

[EldridSmith]

Baryn was already on the front of the ship to see the monster tossing trees at them much to his surprise and fear as he cursed under his breath. He wasn't interesting in hunting the wild beast but Tessia seemed all too interested in doing so. He could understand wanting the publicity as he is, was part of a band, still he didn't understand risking his life just for the headlines, he had enough of that from living in Zuanshi. Just his luck the captain started losing his mind as the creature drew under them. This caused the conversation to dim as he focused on the approaching threat.

Barn decided to merge with Khan for the muscle mass to protect him should anything befall them, and no less than a second had he done so than the ship erupt, thankfully he kept all his band's instruments with them but it was likely he would be hard pressed to keep them in tact in this mission through the hellish jungle. The sudden sensation of falling hit him as the explosion knocked him from the ship, causing him to summon all the wind he could to support his fall slowing it down to a pace that would only lead to minor bruises on impact instead of a quick demise, were he to land suddenly. The others seemed to be making their own ways to the ground it seemed as others slowly flitted to other parts of the jungle.

He made effort to catch onto a low hanging branch at an angle translating his motion from purely downward to angular allowing him to swing back and forth before dropping down to the moist soil in a crouched position. He hadn't the time to be picky about what aspects of his familiar he picked up, so he looked more tiger than man as far as his face was concerned as easily picked up the calls from Tessia off in the distance. He stood up and started making his way towards her as fast as he could. While he used the wind to stay silent, it didn't stop him from leaving his hybrid tracks behind.

His tan and black skin blended in neatly with the forest floor and surrounding plants as he arrived at Tessia's limping form before separating from Khan. He stopped to study her and almost immediatly his eyes were drawn to her wound. "I highly suggest you get on Khan instead considering the... scratch." He remarked with a smirk, he didn't think scratch was the right word but now wasn't the time. "Khan can carry three people as comfortably as you can bareback on a tiger." He remarked to which Khan rumbled in response. "He can see better in here than we can." He remarked missing Khan's vision abilities. He paused as he heard the screeching monkies. He wanted nothing to do with the local creatures after their run in with the behemoth. "I suggest you cover your ears... Khan will try and scare them off." He remarked, giving her time to react before nudging Khan to let out a low rumbling roar throughout the jungle, ideally scaring off most nuisances... though it might have a deterring effect on the rest of the party, it was better than nothing considering that Tessia was injured.
Jet Monbon

 

[Jet]

​

Bean snorted before spitting on the pristine street, expressing his hatred for the glamorous town. He wasn't interested in its long winded introduction. The boisterous claims and dumb masks. It was all bullshit. The indulgence of twats standing on the backs of common men, and right below the surface, supporting the whole thing, was the looting of local slums.

He knew exactly how the racket went down. How they squeezed commoners for every coin they possessed, like sponges full of money. He despised their cowardice and sheltered little lives. Their ripe stinking hypocrisy, like they were more cultured than average men. That's what bothered him most of all. The way he was viewed like a stinking beast on two legs.

"One day, I'll burn this place to the ground." He stared at Gunter with cold, unflinching eyes. "I'll tie you up on the cliffs so you can watch."

Gunter said nothing for a moment. His mouth pursed and his hair stood from his skin. He knew Bean could do exactly what he said. "Thankyou in advance for sparing me, Master Bean." He bowed his head and offered a weak smile, but it was nothing more than a performance. He was quite terrified in truth. "But allow me to answer the queries of your companions, lest I forget my manners."

"Animal masks, my dearest Vixie, are a preference many of our guests share." He nodded at three passing women. They were draped in dresses of silk and rare dyes, worth twice their weight in gold. "Our patrons are notable in both name and station. We service politicians, professional athletes, famous musicians alike! It would cause massive scandals if their presence here was known, hence the disguises." He smiled at the young, handsome musician beside him. "Ones I will happily provide when we reach Casablanca, along with anything else you desire."

Bean tapped the man's shoulder. "Make mines extra special, lotsa gems yeah?"

"Ah yes." Gunter loosened his collar. "Yes of course. I will see what I can do Master Bean." He rounded a corner and at the end of the street, resplendent and grand, stood the Casablanca Brunette. It was a mansion set in the middle of the town, like something a vain actor would build. It was surrounded by a black fence tipped with little blades at the top, and there was only one entrance to the grounds, a gate surrounded by guards.

"Look!" A guard waved them in. "Gunter finally made friends!"

The guards snickered as the gate opened for the group, leading to a pathway of white tiles. It was followed by a staircase of the same pale granite, lined with torches and statues of the gods. "Giovanni is a patron of the arts," said Gunter. "He created the post modern revivalist movement, a return to better times."

He reached the front door and placed his hands on his hips, gazing at the opulent entrance. It was a massive double door, made from polished wood trimmed with pure gold. The name of the mansion was scrawled overhead in matching letters, penned in a humble, simple font. "Before we enter," he said. "I must warn you. That among all establishments in the undercity, we are most known for—

"Pleasure." He opened the door and hundreds of guests were inside a dining hall. The sound of conversations and laughter were overwhelmingly loud, and a floral scent filled the air. There were more drinks than could be counted, more drugs than could be smoked, and the mood. The lighting. The outfits screamed desire. The guests wore almost nothing as they perused and mingled with each other. Men and women of every color, creed and persuasion, all looking for a good time. There were many who gazed at the newcomers, Nihall most of all. Their eyes were filled with curiosity.

"You can find Giovanni at the far end of the room, look for a VIP section, he'll be impossible to miss." Gunter turned towards a hallway. "My master encourages you to explore Casablanca before you meet him. To revel in the decadence free of charge."

"But we understand that you're here on business, if you choose to decline."

Meanwhile, a young man had eyes for Nihall. He was picturesque in his fine appearance, like a painting of peak human beauty. He was slim but his muscles were perfectly defined and well shaped, and he was bare chested without a shirt. His golden hair was short on the sides but longer on the top, covering a portion of his forehead. His face was narrow but sharp and chiseled like a statue, with a button nose dotted with light freckles. He'd chosen not to wear a mask for some reason, and clearly had eyes for the singer.

Lost Echo
Anne Boolean

 

[Goliath]

Elriel stared back at the man, declaring that they were fools. He wasn’t so close-minded to dispute he had much to learn about the world due to his young age. How many times had his own father told him that when his emotions were too strong to keep in check? But he wanted to learn; turning away gave him nothing but regret.

But did Magnus not hear him? Or was he not clear? Elriel didn’t care about Nye all that much either, truthfully. But as one of the nobles of his country, he was aware of what could happen if he sat and did nothing. With that power, they could defeat Nye, and then what was to stop them after? Valencia eventually having to change their laws and give up their freedoms? Elriel was trying to prevent that.

Still he could empathize with wanting to turn his back on a country that had done the same to them. Elriel recoiled as Magnus mentioned expelling them to the sea for their allegiance. And it sounded like it may happen, as the other burly men agreed. Not just one but two.

He glanced at their centurion, who spoke up, his purple eyes focused in on the pendant. Elriel could now grasp why the centurion named ‘Theseus’ held such weight in these lands. He sounded like an honorable man who did what was right, even if it meant defying orders. Unable not to wonder what had happened to him. Would Darius tell him? Now wasn’t the time.

Elriel looked back to the bearded man. And a soft smile crept onto his face hearing the lords final proclamation on the topic - that he wouldn’t stop them from going if that’s what they so desired. What the group had needed to hear. Suddenly, the man, one who was ready to send them to sea, had an outburst that made Elriel’s hand drift to his hip for the first time. Listening the chair topple.

Elriel’s movement quickly become unnecessary, watching Magnus put him in his place, the torches illuminating the fine craftsmanship of the steal sword pointed at the man. They were a unique culture, wishing he could stay longer and study their customs. The leader still looked angry as he turned back to them. The dark eyes bouncing between himself and Ada.

When the man spoke again, Elriel swallowed hard. He hadn’t been expecting that. He hadn’t uttered his fathers name since his death in the coliseum. The emotion still so raw in his mind.

But he cleared his throat and then spoke as instructed. “Edmund Whitlock. The representative for one of the four great noble families of Valencia. He was my father, sir. A fine man who received a death unbefitting of the life he strove to live. One that must be avenged by my hand,” he spoke. The passion all over his face as his hands clenched tightly by his side. “May he guide me to my destination as you say.”

He silenced as he heard who might know Adamaris’s questions, nodding to his friend again, words not necessary between them. The tree tenders at the mount of Pwyn. They would have to be patient to get all of Adamaris’s questions answered. But at least their was hope,

“Lord. This tree you continue to speak of — or more specifically, how do we start the journey to the end of the earth? I’m sorry for my ignorance, though I doubt there is a map for such a place,” Elriel spoke again curiously.

Emphoa (Adamaris) Jet (Darius)

 

[rozukitsune]

For Narzas, it was all she could do to hold fast. Perhaps to Ren it seemed a bit harsh, but he was certainly not the only one in the room being affected by Marjorie's power. Since Narzas was not inclined to be tempted by feminine wiles - hers was a manipulation of a different sort. It was brief... the opening notes and little electrical show doing nothing in particular to sway her as expected. During the tail end of the song though, when Marjorie's eyes briefly drifted to stare at her: she felt the force of the woman's deep, nearly alien; hatred for her existence curl around her soul. Though she'd only swiveled her head, and was seemingly wholly focused on Johan; Narzas felt the air being sucked from her lungs as surely as if one of the many tentacles beneath the woman's figure had snapped up from the floor and tangled itself around her throat.

That gaze promised to make her life a living hell for the foreseeable future, something she'd very much been trying to avoid receiving from anyone despite the way she'd been raised. Narzas wasn't typically easily swayed by fear... but this particular source of it was making a damn good case for the goosebumps that shivered up her arms and the chill that traced her spine.

It didn't particularly help when the she-demon's gaze returned to Johan or the fact that Johan had sunk a dagger into his own arm to keep his attention on reality. If she was so strong to elicit such reactions... Narzas didn't really see how mere threats were going to keep her from making good on all the promises her body made. The zuànshín swallowed against the rising fear of the unknown and stood her ground regardless. If this was going to be a fight, she could at least endeavor not to allow the enemy to take her out in the first round.


----

​

Marjorie remained on the floor for a few moments as Johan growled and threatened... but her focus wasn't really on his words. Her eyelids fluttered shut as the vision of his blood spilling and hitting the floor synced up with her nose smelling the sweet, semi-metallic scent of fresh blood in the air. She groaned softly and licked her lips, like a shark that had just scented a likely meal in its immediate surroundings. Mmmm... delicious. After a moment, her attention re-focused on the trio and her lips curled into a smile as she slowly rose from the floor.

"You want me outta yer head, darlin'? Sorry ta say but that ain't how that works." She laughed softly, clicking her tongue at Johan. "Only person that can do that is you."

She then placatingly rose her hands up in surrender. "Ah s'pose Ah'll have ta play nice, for now at least." She relented. "Ain't no use to mah boss dead." She sighed, again it seemed more a nuisance that she had any rules to follow at all.

"Here's what Ah know... there's a lotta dead people in this buildin' on account'a the poison they make here. Dunno who commissioned it originally, dunno what it's made of, dunno why all 'a these guys are dead over it: not my business to care. Ah'm just tryin' ta get a line on where more can be procured." She hooked a thumb behind her at the offices. "Ah started off that'away pickin' some 'o these bodies off the floor for interrogatin' - like you saw when ya came in. Ah was just'bout ta go where y'all came in and see if anyone in there had anythin' useful ta say. Wanna come with? Dead people are awful at spillin' their secrets." She grumbles. "Also, Ah don't got a whole lotta juice left, maybe pick like three ya think would be a good target?" She asks hopefully.

Jet ZackStop Lost Echo Huntertabbysandshark3

 

[Arcanist]

Faraji Aguta

Mentions: Goliath Jet

No information on him or Goliath, apparently, for the crime ring to gather anything on them. ‘If only you knew.’ Faraji stayed silent. He wouldn’t correct him if he was none the wiser about his involvement with the Games. It was better that way for all of them there. He didn’t need blamed for what happened.

He felt a large hand press against his back, flinching at the sudden gesture. He relaxed a little at hearing Goliath’s voice encouraging him to move forward. Faraji didn’t think his touch could be so gentle, given his muscular stature. He imagined crumbling in his hands if Goliath were to grab him.

Faraji continued on as did the other two, with Goliath wise cracking to make the situation not so unbearably daunting. There was the suggestion of Adrian using his fire to create a light, which made sense, though, carried the risk of fire. Maybe it’d get anything hiding in the dark or the brush…though, Adrian went ahead and created a light source for them. He trusted him not to set the place on fire, though, perhaps that would have been a nicer alternative than what lay in front of them.

The man made something of a face, unsure of whether he would want to meet the host of this place. “I can’t say I’d be thrilled to meet them.” He was not anymore thrilled when Adrian confirmed that there was something dreadfully, awfully wrong with this place. He had the same idea – raze the place, maybe even exorcise whatever horrible demon dwelled here. Faraji’s moved around and found dots of light – eyes – watching from the darkness.

Would it be so bad to turn tail and run? No, whatever had been watching them, they knew they were here. Running would only make things worse. He silently gulped, forcing himself to continue moving with the others.

When they reached the door, Goliath went to knock, Adrian had vowed to kick down the door, but Faraji watched as the door moved with no help of a human hand. He stiffened as a shadow emerged in the doorway, feeling his chest and throat tighten, any adrenaline urging him to run before depleted in a matter of seconds, and replaced with gnawing fear.

A crone, a hag, by all accounts of her voice. The kind he would have put on for Casimir when reading him his fairytales, all stories far from reality and yet, so real in front of him right now. The stench - of her, or their surroundings, he wasn't sure - made his eyes water. He had to wonder how much of what she said in her riddles, of the three of them appearing, was coincidence, just pure gobshite she made up on the spot.

But he wondered what darkness the others held deep within them.

“Perhaps she can help us,” Faraji suggested to Adrian and Goliath, despite his low, wavering voice. “We don’t have any other leads, do we?”

Even then, he did not leave the woman to go unanswered. “Readings, you say? I hear fortunes and riddles are rather popular these days. Though I do admit, your bit about rat bones and being sucked dry might leave a paltry taste in potential customers’ mouths…”

[/font]

​

 

[Jet]

​

Mischa was the last one to leave the ship. Her feet dragged like rocks as she went down the ramp, rubbing her painfully sore head. The sun scorched her eyes like embers drifting from a fire, and her mouth was drier than month old biscuits. It was a miserable feeling and yet, despite how uncomfortable she was, it was a sure sign of a good time. That last night was one for the ages.

"Fucking hell... who let me drink that much?" Mischa merged with Napa and scanned the settlement for life. There was nothing but a few lizards and birds. "Not picking up anything, but maybe that's the hangover?"

"Or maybe they went for groceries?" Her smile concealed what she really felt. That local tribes raided the centurions. It wasn't something she wanted to say when super bitch, in her infinite wisdom, already made that point.

"Unless," she chimed. "They're on a team building trip? Any strip clubs around here?" Mischa glanced at their new second in command. It was truly insane that this woman. The rage beast who despised everything good in the world — like babies and sunsets, was now their commanding officer. It boggled the mind. Had Dalton never considered morale? Team bonding? That assholes made terrible first mates? If anything it was counter intuitive. Mischa always heard that stern captains should have soft seconds, and soft captains should have stern seconds. Dalton was a hardass so why double down?

Whatever...

There was nothing she could do about it. Instead she walked to the building across from where Ilana went, making a point to avoid her. "I'll check this one! Who wants to come with?" She reached the front of what looked like the barracks, and like the other two buildings, it was painted tan to match its surroundings. Its walls were made from aluminum bolted together like a warship, and the windows had rubber seals around them.

Mischa would've hated living there. The whole place was barebones and made by the lowest bidder, and hell, it was probably filled with corpses. "Fuck me," she groaned. "Please no more bodies."

She entered the building and found herself in a common room. There was a pool table in the middle and a stereo in the corner, and a bar was stationed at the back. There were metal tables with matching metal seats, and supplies were stored on the ceiling, stuffed into nets like a supply ship. But most importantly of all, there wasn't a single body in sight. No blood or discarded weapons to pick through. It sent a wave of relief through the woman.

"Missing is better than dead eh?" Mischa looked down a hallway lined with personal rooms, wiping her brow with a shaking hand. There was a growing pit of anxiety in her stomach. Her mind suddenly flashed with memories of the attack, of dead bodies and bloodstained ground. Her sister's blank lifeless eyes. Her heart raced and her breath caught in her chest; she pictured the terrorist holding up that sphere. The explosion ripping through Dyus. The pain of losing her sister and thousand more. It all felt so real, so present. In the moment like she'd traveled back in time.

And then, just like that it was over.

Her memories faded even as her hand trembled with anxiety, even as her heart squeezed in her chest. "What a bloody hangover," she said as she gripped her shaking hand, taking a deep breath as she walked down the hallway. There was no way she would break down now. Not when there was a mission at hand. There were few things more pathetic than that.

Instead she put on a brave face and said, "Kade should have a room over here, might have a clue about his dissappearance."

Fred Colon Emphoa ZackStop Goliath

 

[ManofManyRoles]

Yua Smith
ユア・スミス
Yua had followed along into the adjoining room without a word of complaint, eyes searching the table of technological parts. There was so much in here, easily her entire body masses worth of scrap metal and pieces it looked like...was Tawny an engineer? Or did he just like to tinker? As he grew closer to her arm she looked over, snapped from her internal train of thought at his voice. "Oh I'm...w-wait, weird? I never really...thought of it as weird. It's my arm...or at least my prosthesis. It's not my actual arm, obviously. It's a replacement. What's...weird about it?" She was an adult, or at least she was by the legal standing of most nations, and by now she had grown out of that youthful shyness of being 'different' when it came to having a false arm. Though hearing it so boldly proclaimed as weird had her curious what qualified as such. Was it the fact it wasn't real? Was it the gold trim and false ivory? She'd insisted to her parents that was excessive, but apparently her 'eighteenth birthday' needed such a fancy upgrade. Or was it how it functioned? Could he tell how it worked?

All those little over-examining questions quickly disappeared as she watched with rapt attention as Tawny worked his magic. Like a star-struck child who met their all time hero, Yua's eyes were wide as she clasped her hands in front of herself...the sight was beautiful in a way she couldn't describe. It was far beyond anything someone who had control of Earth and Metal could have done, it was akin to a master painter with his brush. She paused before she took a few steps towards the finished limb, her own prosthesis reaching up to gently tap a golden index finger against it...nothing, inert....but still it had come from that pile of scrap all the same with such skill and in mere moments. Yua rounded on Tawny then, eyes wide and excited. Gone was the fear for her life, gone were here doubts of her presence here, gone was that desire to have a mental break down. Well, perhaps not gone, more akin to put on the backburner...because Yua had just enough brightness in her heart to admire beautiful and unordinary when she saw it. "Tawny...that's amazing! I've never seen anything like that! You can do that with anything?! All you did was get close to my prosthesis...that's just...I dunno what that was, but it was incredible!"

Felix for his part was nowhere near as excitable as his charge...or Isaac, for that manner, but he made a fine conversation partner all the same. "Not a worry at all, sir. I hear names be formally introduced far more than I've heard your name so far today, I assure you I won't be getting sick anytime soon. However..." he paused as he steepeled his hands in front of him, white gloves carefully intertwined as he looked towards the room that held the younger faces in the house and then back towards Isaac, "I will admit, what you say is beyond normal concepts, as I’m sure you know. And while it is impossible to believe...I believe you all the same. I have never travelled West, myself, I've had no need to do so. And, I mean no offense for such, nor did I have the desire. With that said...the world is full of unique and strange stories as it is, who am I to disbelieve another strange happening presented before us? I lack any answer, or any basis of knowledge, for what you speak of. But...you have my word, I shall keep an open at all times, as well as do what I can to assist if thinigs should continue to go awry. After all, I'm not much use to Ms. Smith mad or dead, am I?"

​

Jet

 

[Jet]

​

Francisco stood on his stage waving men towards the walls, but they were too bloody steep. Too mountainous and the defenses — the massive spells fired from above. How they tore men like a meat grinder. There were some curling over as flames scorched their bodies, men with ice blades sticking from their chests, others crushed to paste by earth spells. But his unit was strong enough to resist the attacks, their defenses stood and with every spell soaring at them, a counter stopped it in the air.

"FLAAAAAAANK!" He jumped down and pushed through the crowd, bashing anyone in his way. Blood speckled his face as men fell around him. Their screams were defeaning but his voice, ragged and raw after screaming for hours, still carried weight. "FLAAAAANK!"

"TO THE WEST! WITH ME TO THE WEST!" He pushed onward as a group surrounded his small unit, splitting from the main force at the gate. They would serve as a distraction while his new group of followers, two thousand strong, flanked around to where defenses were weak. Then they'd crush the fortress from within. "WHEN I CAPTURE THE HYDRALINES, WHAT SHOULD I TAKE FIRST?"

"LOIN OR CHOP!" He grinned with bloodlust and rage. "SHANK OR RIB?"

"OR PERHAPS THE HEART!"

The crowd screamed "HEART" in response. He was incensed and with every step he took, he gained momentum and energy. He blazed forwards with his men close around him, rounding a corner as buildings exploded overhead. Bricks burst like shrapnel as apartments leaned over, collapsing as dozens, or even hundreds died within them. The debris killed many of the mob following behind him, but they were unstoppable. For every death another person joined their cause, filling the shoes of the departed.

Soon he rounded a second corner and saw a suspicious group of people. They looked strange for some reason — out of place with their good looks and calm demeanor. He could sus them from a thousand leagues away.

"WHAT HAVE WE HERE? HAVE WE FRIEND OR FOE? SINNERS OR SAINTS?" He pointed and his mob advanced like a tidal wave, gushing down the street like paint from a brush. He stood back as they encroached on the odd strangers. "IF ANY MAN CAPTURES THEM ALIVE, I SHALL MAKE THEM RICH BEYOND COMPARE!"

"NOW GO MY GOOD LADS! LET'S SEE WHAT FILTH OOZES THROUGH OUR STREETS!"

Kwame stepped back as the mob rushed towards them. He knew he could end them in one fell swoop, but these were innocent people. The prisoners who'd suffered for decades on Xysma, not the evil provocateurs. "It seems our schemes of disguise must wait for now. The sheep are advancing ahead of the wolves, and we must flee, for I will not lay a hand on the herd."

He made an earthen shield as spells whizzed towards them, every element at once in a wave. They tore through buildings like they were made from tissue paper, bursting windows in explosions of glass shards. There was a hail of stones and little pieces of rubble; concrete dust rained on their heads. Kwame reinforced his shield and spread it far across the street, two feet thick and ten feet high, blocking fireballs bursting in loud explosions.

"They are too numerous! I cannot contain them for long!" Kwame grabbed Kilderkin and Eveline by the arm, rushing into an alleyway. "We must—

He stopped as the apartment beside them sagged and crumbled, leaning over with the sound of cracking stone. He stared at the street as dust and rubble streamed towards him like an avalanche, eyes wide as he screamed, "RUN!"

He turned to the building and reached out his hands, but that was the last thing anyone saw. The alley filled with dust and rubble a moment later, swallowing the trio whole.

Francisco watched from afar with a grim look on his face. "ALIVE YOU FOOLS!"

"ALIVE!"

"HAVE WORDS NO MEANING TO A PACK OF HOUNDS? HAVE YOU NO HOUSE TRAINING?" He advanced with his men following behind him, chasing after the ones on the street, but meanwhile, Kwame and the others huddled in a small dome of stone. It was dark inside and full of concrete dust, but they were still alive, trapped below a collapsed building. "I seem to have miscalculated our position," he said with a ragged cough. "I never considered the building would collapse, my apologies."

"I should've studied architecture at some point. You'd think as an earth mage—

"I digress. There's no time to waste on self depreciation. We must distance ourselves from the pack of wolves controlling the island." He pressed his hands against the side of the dome, opening a tunnel supported by thick columns. The walls were smooth like they were carved by a master mason, and soon a glimmer of light came from the end. "I can assure you, this structure won't collapse."

Fred Colon ManofManyRoles rozukitsune Lost Echo EldridSmith