This is a sci-fi/fantasy RP. The Players are young Mages who have been brought to the Academy in order to develop their magical talent and protect their city. They will fight monsters that roam in the wilderness, investigate nefarious plots against King and Country, and so on. But that is all in their future. For now, after a bit of general plot setup, let us have the characters meet up, get to know one another, etc. We can feed them to monsters later.
The plot so far:
The students meet their teacher, Professor Yuki Okamoto, and have their first few days of instruction.
About a week into their Academy life, they are unexpectedly sent out on a mission to investigate the town of Normaden. They learn that a Witch, a powerful monster that sometimes grows from humans with magical potential, has developed in the region. Their Professor takes on the role of exterminating the Witch itself, leaving the students to handle some of its Familiars. During the students' fight, though, they are unexpectedly brought face to face with an Angel. After a fierce fight, the students are victorious and return to their homes safely.
Back in Uruk, the plots grow thicker. A massive force of Angels has gathered near Babylon, and the head honchos discuss plans of how to deal with the threat. The Academy's Headmaster learns that the Angel that the students encountered was sent by the Chief of the Galileians. What could Chief Herschel be plotting, and why involve these young Mages?
Completely unaware of these plots, the students are assigned another mission: to resolve an incident over who should possess a valuable research subject. They will be escorted and monitored by Essence Parker, one of the academy's Student Council members...
To chat, give feedback, watch us fool around OOC, etc, please join the Discord
For a brief bit of worldbuilding or to create a character, please refer to the OOC thread
This club prides itself on having a very detailed combat and character system. For more information on said system, please refer to the System Info/Extra Lore thread.
To see a list of some detailed NPC sheets, please view this thread.
Start of the turn: +5 prana (100 > 100) +13 stamina (73 > 86)
Effects:
Mark of Hibiscus
Statistics: Aura: 78 Prana: 100 Stamina: 86
Attributes: STR: B VIT: E WIL: E RES: E SPD: D AGI: D PER: E REC: D
Equipment:Valerius Durability:100 Spirit Cores: N/A Additional Properties: It can draw upon Almeida's prana to replenish its durability (this is a lengthy process and thus can only be done outside of combat). As it was created in a mine, where tools must be harder than that which they collide with, it will take reduced damage when one of Almeida's attacks clashes with another attack or a "reflective" barrier.
Aptitude (Passive)
Stamina Cost for Dodge & Evade & EvasionDodge is reduced by 5.
Stamina Cost for EvasionGuard & Counter & ParryCounter is reduced by 10.
There was some odd sound coming from the building they arrived at, but Almeida couldn't quite place it.
Action Phase: "Let's not waste any time and just break through. I'll smash the boards, be ready to deal with anything that might come out." Almeida would smash through the largest board (probably the front window) to get an easier entrance into the building, swinging Valerius to hit besides her so that she wouldn't be directly in front of the creatively made entrance, just in case something in there was eager to attack on sight. [Attack -5 stamina]
Yune vanished all of a sudden, leaving Londo no time to reply, which left him sorta worried. She seemed to want to have fun, so why wasn't she at least sticking around for stuff to happen?
Londo followed Hibiscus and Almeida to a run-down-looking store known as Hal's Electronics. There didn't seem to be anyone guarding it, and only a faint humming noise could be heard from within.
As soon as Almeida announced she was gonna, smash, Londo nodded, and as soon as she did, Londo went in, gauntlets up looking around for potential opposition, whom would most likely be surprised at the sudden break-in, rather than immediately firing at the source of attack. If there was only a single person there, Londo would do his best to grab the arms of the person to stop them from resisting. If there were multiple, Londo would find cover in the place as soon as possible. If there were not any, Londo would announce to Hibiscus and Almeida, "Coast is clear, c'mon in!"
If there was something BESIDES other people, then Londo would quickly back out, leading the thing outside to try and get Almeida to ambush it.
After following Almeida, with Londo close behind, they all arrived at an abandoned electronic's store. Almeida then announced her intent to break down the door, and Hibiscus quickly used her magic to mend Londo's wounds with a Healing Hurt, as he seemed to be wanting to go in and join the action in a breach charge. Hibiscus wondered why Almeida didn't take advantage of the confusion to go in after Londo and take any assailants by surprise, but she probably had a reason for it. Even if something was coming out, wouldn't it have been better to take it by surprise?
Londo went in, and Hibiscus waited, knife over her arm, ready to heal at a moment's notice.
The sound of wood splintering echoed through the night as Valerius slammed through the largest board covering the shop's windows and door. Londo then immediately leapt through the newly created entrance, ready for action. Fortunately, there was no action to be found.
The interior of Hal's Electronics was a perfect example of what one thought of when they envisioned an electronics store. It had a relatively small real-estate footprint, but it made use of every inch with plenty of shelves and cabinets filled with all manner of products from transistors to hard drives. Or rather, it would have held such products, had the store's stock not been almost completely wiped out.
The humming heard from outside was also significantly louder inside the store, and faint vibrations could be felt emanating from underneath the floor. Though the ground floor of the store had no lights on, the light emanating from the stairs that led to the basement seemed a good indication that the lower level was well-illuminated.
(The following only applies if you choose to descend the stairs, but rather than make you post "I move to the stairs, end turn", I'll just throw it in right now under the assumption that someone will, sooner or later, try)
Upon descending the staircase to the basement level, one would notice the humming grow progressively louder, clearly being caused by something down here. Considering the massive machine, perhaps a computer of some sort, occupying almost an entire wall, it was fairly obvious what the most likely source of the humming was. An older man with brilliant golden hair stood in front of the machine, fiddling with a keyboard and display embedded in the side. "Not enough… Its still not enough… I need more. More!" The man muttered to himself as he worked, though it was still plenty loud enough to be heard by anyone on or near the stairs. He didn't seem to notice the Mage(s) descending the stairs, focused as he was on the controls, though he would probably notice if they approached him or tried to interact with him.
There was nothing in the store except abandoned electronics. The humming continued, and Londo made his way to the stairs, trying not to make too much noise. He looked back at Almeida and Hibiscus to see if they were ok, Hibiscus glanced at the stairs, then nodded to Londo, whom started slowly descending the stairs.
At the bottom, Londo saw a guy working on the machine, or perhaps turning it off. Londo couldn't take that risk. If it was someone on their side, he should have let the Academy know, and if he did, the Academy still haven't told them yet, so there was probably no chance of him being important to shutting off the machine.
Hibiscus pointed at the guy, signaling to Londo by putting her hand around her own neck. Londo nodded, getting the message.
Londo put his arms at his side, slowly making his way to the guy, who seemed to be preoccupied with the controls. Londo then sprang up, grabbing him from behind, puting his right arm around the guy's neck, and holding his left arm with the other, bending his body backwards to match Londo's height, and moving him away from the controls, while Hibiscus matched his pace, going to the front side of the man and holding her knife up to him to dissuade him from moving back towards the controls, "Alright Almeida, smash the controls!" He yelled out to his companion, before interrogating the man, "Who are you? Why are you messing with the controls?" While Hibiscus stood in front, glaring at the man and poking the knife into his stomach to prod him for answers faster.
Start of the turn: +5 prana (100 > 100) +13 stamina (81 > 94)
Effects:
Mark of Hibiscus
Statistics: Aura: 78 Prana: 100 Stamina: 94
Attributes: STR: B VIT: E WIL: E RES: E SPD: D AGI: D PER: E REC: D
Equipment:Valerius Durability:100 Spirit Cores: N/A Additional Properties: It can draw upon Almeida's prana to replenish its durability (this is a lengthy process and thus can only be done outside of combat). As it was created in a mine, where tools must be harder than that which they collide with, it will take reduced damage when one of Almeida's attacks clashes with another attack or a "reflective" barrier.
Aptitude (Passive)
Stamina Cost for Dodge & Evade & EvasionDodge is reduced by 5.
Stamina Cost for EvasionGuard & Counter & ParryCounter is reduced by 10.
There was some odd sound coming from the building they arrived at, but Almeida couldn't quite place it.
Action Phase:
It was not particularly fun to find the building empty, in fact, it was quite suspicious. Almeida had expected to set off some sort of alarm, at least, or to trigger a trap. With nothing of that nature, she could only fear they'd run into it later. Well, Londo would, as he sneaked downstairs. Almeida decided her best option was to follow along and hope for the best. Valerius was far from ideal to wield in indoor environments, so she was glad to see that Londo was able to subdue the man they managed to find. Once they seemed to have that much under control, Almeida was quick to check for a way to contact either the ones whom had sent them to this place or Omoikane, whichever she's spot first. The latter was the winner.
"I'm at the location said to be the origin of these portals. Should I try to turn the machinery here off or can I just destroy it all?"
She soon got the suggestion to keep it intact. However, she had no clue how to do so, and she wouldn't trust the captive's words. After all, with how desperate the man had seemed to be, she didn't wish for him to use her to finish whatever the hell he'd been doing without her knowing it. Instead, she managed to turn on a live video feed to show Omoikane. "Just tell me what to press then."
Mislyte follows the lead of the other students who arrived before him in securing area while others attempted to deactivate the possible portal generator?
refreshing new scene smell
(Start of Turn: +5 Prana, +10 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
Action Phase:
Mislyte's boots softly hit pavement as he dashed across the street to Hal's Electronics shortly after the others had already entered the building. The mage kept Split and his shortsword handy as he stepped through the gaping opening. Softly glowing eyes scanned the store for potential threats. Noting the downstairs shortly after the others had already descended and started apprehending the man, Mislyte opted to stay positioned at the top of the stairs to keep a look out for anyone potentially coming to the store or changes to the store's first floor.
"Mislyte here. I'll keep watch in the store. I wouldn't be surprised if more hostiles showed up to stop us if what you found is truly a source of the problem,"
The young man's voice was still cold and clear due to his transformed state despite the amount of excitement already experienced that evening. Split's voice was similarly ominous as it spoke in hushed tones too airy to decypher. It's words did have an affect one some of the electronics however as the energy released from the shortsword caused visible or audible static in the nearby equipment momentarily.
Finally having a moment to compose himself after fighting or running for a while, he used a reflective surface to straighten his attire and hair.
(standby 10 Stamina)
Strength - E Vitality - E Willpower - E Resistance - E Speed - E Dexterity - E Perception - E Recovery - D
Reaction Phase
As the differing attacks came upon her from differing angles, avoiding each one would be difficult. A task she knew she was not capable of, so instead she simply aimed for what she thought she would survive, and respond to any additional attacks after such. Turning one of such attacks and dashing towards its direction, though attempting to dodge it to reduce impact as she held her arms to where it would come from. In the hopes that she could move far away to be out of the radius from the other attacks.
Quickly she would ready herself once more for another volley, yet none came. Instead a recognizable voice came from beyond the darkness. She sighed of relief, as she didn't want to see her and her sister's body harmed in any way, so teach Okamoto had saved her a lot of guilt on what she could have possibly caused by getting a little excited when the opportunity arose.
She thought for a moment about closing further to watch their fight, but she wasn't too interested in a fight she couldn't participate in. Instead she simply sighed once more and began to walk away to take cover whilst she remained blinded, trying to pay attention to their location through sound in hopes of not getting too close.
Results of Lavi's RP:
With only a split second to decide her course of action, Lavi propelled herself in an unspecified direction towards her 9 o'clock, hoping to escape the projectiles by moving towards one. Though it certainly turned out better than it might've otherwise, she still felt sharp pain as the 11 o'clock bolt grazed her right arm, the 9 o'clock slashed across her chest, and the 3 o'clock slammed squarely into her back.
(Lavi: -3, -6, -15 Aura)
As she heard her teacher and the strange Spirit begin to challenge one another, Lavi decided that it would be a good idea to move away from then. Coincidentally, that direction also happened to be roughly the direction she was already heading in. As she moved away, a few plastic boxes with freshly grilled lamprey eel entered her limited visual range, and shortly after that, the wall of a shop appeared. (As Lavi specified neither direction nor distance, I will assume she stops here).
Though Lavi's night-blindness made it impossible to make out either Okamoto or the Spirit, she heard the sounds of their battle. Quite frankly, the sounds of various materials colliding with others (steel on stone, etc) wasn't that interesting when you couldn't see anything about what was happening, so Lavi focused mostly on the verbal battle the two women were also having.
"Hmph. Such a weak curse won't even bother me. After your boasting, I was hoping you could do better than a mere goblin."
"If that was enough to bother you, then you'd be no better than that brat over there."
There was a slight pause before Okamoto's voice sounded again. "So what's a little bird like you doing up so late? It must be way past your bedtime."
"Hey! I'm at least three times your age!"
"That's not really something to be proud of…
"Whatever! And I'm not a 'little bird', I'm a night sparrow!"
"So that's what your little curse earlier was supposed to do. What a pity. Even during the middle of a lunar eclipse, your most advantageous time, you can't hold a candle to me."
"... Why would I hold a candle? I don't have problems seeing in the dark."
"You don't even know such a simple idiom? I suppose you are a sparrow; it shouldn't be a surprise that you were raised in a barn."
"I AIN'T NO COUNTRY BUMPKIN!"
"That just makes you sound more like one though…"
"Anyway, I've got to head back soon. Mistress said not to stay here too long, in case the Gate closes again. You can have fun with my goblins for now."
"Fun? If you wanted me to have fun, you ought to have brought at least twice as many." The sounds of combat shifted from "a fierce battle between two individuals" and more towards "a Mage attempting goblin genocide".
Meanwhile...
Setting: Hal's Electronics
Strange Man
The man's gaze was fixed on the display before him as he muttered to himself. By the time he noticed the boy sneaking up behind him, it was already too late. "What? No, what are you doing! I cannot stop yet! More, I must do more!" Despite the man flailing about as he tried to resist his attacker, Londo would notice that the man was decidedly out of shape. Part of it may have been that Londo was now a Mage, but this man felt far weaker than he ought to have been. It had likely been quite a while since this man had eaten properly, and only the gods knew when he had last been to a doctor. Not to mention, now that Londo was more than a little close to the man, it was obvious that a bath for the man was sorely needed.
As Londo held back the blonde man and Hibiscus placed a knife to his throat, Almeida approached the machine. Rather than listen to Londo, she chose to search her AMB for someone else to contact for advice. She soon came across a contact that stood out for a number of reasons. The name "Omoikane" was hardly common, after all. Not to mention that unlike all of her other contacts, this one had no unique identification number. And receiving a god's contact info would normally be something fairly memorable, though she couldn't recall it happening. But either way, he certainly fit the bill for who she was looking to contact. It only took about a second between her pressing the button and the line connecting.
Upon being asked what she should do with the machine, Omoikane replied "Try to shut it down. It'll make great research material." With that in mind, Almeida asked for help on how to shut it down properly, and Omoikane proceeded to walk her through the process. Evidently, a god of knowledge was basically the ultimate IT support, as Omoikane had no issues in figuring out what steps were needed.
Thanks to Almeida's efforts and Omoikane's guidance, the whirring sounds from the machine rapidly began to decrease. In turn, the blonde man's cries seemed to grow even more frantic, completely ignoring the knife and questions from Londo as he shouted: "No! You can't! Don't shut it off! I need it if I am to destroy those bastards!" But as the massive machine finished powering down and its humming disappeared, the man knew that it was too late. Any strength he had possessed quickly faded, leaving him as just a sobbing mess in Londo's arms, muttering incoherent syllables as he was overtaken by despair.
There was a quick beeping noise on the Mages' AMBs (specifically, those at Hal's Electronics), announcing a call from the Academy. Of course, it was only an announcement and not a request; the call connected without any input from the Mages. "We have confirmed that the thaumaturgical readings from that location have disappeared! No further Gates are opening, and existing ones seem to be starting to collapse! You did it! Amazing!" Sometime while the Academy operator was chattering away, Almeida's call to Omoikane was disconnected.
Back on Richmond Avenue, a goblin let out one final bloodcurdling scream as it met its end to one of Okamoto's blades. Silence reigned over the area for a few minutes, only broken by Okamoto sighing and starting to move towards Lavi. "Oi, Lavi, you dead? Looks like the Gate is closed now."
As Londo kept a hold on the old man, he also had to keep a hold of the non-existant breakfest, because this man smelled BAD. Hisibus also had to pinch her nose and breath in through her mouth, because even she could not do it without gagging.
Almeida ignored Londo and instead wasted time talking to someone, but eventually shut it down, Hibiscus backed away from the man in disgust after he collapsed, and Londo let go of him, as he was obviously not a threat. With how weak he was, Hibiscus could probably take him. Disgusted, Hibiscus told him, "Shut it. You have explaining to do. Shutting it down shut down the gates, you keeping them on just made things worse."
Hibiscus then walked over to Almeida, while Londo kept an eye on the guy, but from a safe distance to not get BO'ed all over, and asked her, "Should we get back to everyone else? Or take this guy in first?"
For a moment, Almeida wondered if it was just her, or if Omoikane sounded like he had an Indian accent all of a sudden. In either case, she managed to shut down the machines upon following his instructions. Hibiscus was quick to approach her afterwards. "I'd rather be safe than sorry, and confirm that nobody starts messing around with this machine until someone's here to study and guard it. You guys can take him in and get some rest afterwards, if you want, I should be fine on my own now that the portals shut down."
Location: Centennial Square Interactions: @alatartheblue42 Miss Okamoto
Status:
Aura: 65 / 100 Prana: 80 / 100 Stamina: 100 / 100
Status Effects:
Weapon:
Left Glove
Durability: 40/40
Right Glove
Durability: 40/40
Axe
Durability: ?/?
Ursa's Hide
Durability: ?/?
Strength - E Vitality - E Willpower - E Resistance - E Speed - E Dexterity - E Perception - E Recovery - D
For a moment Lavi recoiled in phantom pain as she felt the projectiles rake across her bodily parts, not harming her directing, but heavily harming her aura depending on where it had hit her. She huffed and puffed in slight anxiety as she felt across herself to make sure no serious wounds were left on her chest or back, before quickly making headway away from the sounds. She could not see far around from her, so judging cardinal directions was not as important for her, nor did she exactly remember the layout of everything around her.
Stopping at the wall of one the buildings surrounding the square she had arrived at she would place herself to find any cover if possible within her small visual range, but leave it as such, to continue to stay near the fight.
Which resulted in hearing the exchanging of... honest to god two old women whom were concerned about their age at this point that they would squabble over it... Yeah Miss Okamoto was probably a tad older then she seemed. Also that old hag could scoff off calling her a damn brat again, but she would leave that to herself for now. Before it quickly switched over to a variety screams, yells, crying and possibly a variety of cursing.
''Uuh recovering quickly, so I am fine. Everything is taken care of now?'' She said as she began to scratch behind her ear with her right hand, whilst her left hand still held the axe of the goblin which she had slain. ''Oh yeah oughta ask, how long did I go knock out for? Its been a weird 'morning' so far.''
Changes - Nimble Module, Mark of Hibiscus Aura - 77 Prana - 75 Stamina - 10 Romus/Remus - 40/40 Railgun - Ammo ~%25/Energy ~%10
Strength - E Vitality - E Willpower - E Resistance - E Speed - C Dexterity - C Perception - E Recovery - E
Start of Turn: +10 Stamina & +5 Prana
With the new target in mind, Ryan rushed along towards the store, noting company along him. He slowed down his pace slightly to make the railgun fire M1 Solid rounds before resuming his rushed pace to the store. Ryan had fallen behind, as he was occupying himself in surveying the surroundings for his mates ahead. By the time he arrived at the store, he was able to hear some strange noises from within, but nothing he could particularly recognize. As he made his way in through a hole made most likely by Almeida's hammer, the noise stopped along with a vibration he felt only briefly. The ruckus source seemed to come from downstairs. Ryan ventured down, where the smelly apparent creator of this mess just laid on the ground, while watched by Ryan's pal. Meanwhile, Almeida suggested to have the rest of them leave with the man and go for some rest. Ryan, frowned, he felt like Hibiscus and Londo had done more, so he offered "I-I'll stay guarding too... if... you don't mind, Almeida" while glancing at the machine, and then Almeida, waiting for an answer.
Londo got out of bed, stretching, hearing the door open to his room and Alice walking in with her hairstyle all in a towel. He stretched out his various limbs as Alice stared at him, squinting her eyes, "Hmmm?"
Londo, noticing the stare, asked, "Yo, what's up Alice? Excited for today's match?"
Alice shook her head, still staring, "No. I just noticed… You have your blessing back." And in a quieter voice, "And you seem chipper compared to yesterday…"
Londo started down at himself, "Oh yea, neat right? I think the cooldown was shorter than what you said." He didn't hear what Alice had said, but what was going on in Londo's thoughts were more of a show than genuine happiness.
Alice nodded, "Yea, looks like around 30 to 40 hours. I think."
"Neat!"
And after getting dressed and donning his gauntlets, Londo sat up on his bed, staring expectedly at Alice, "Alright. What's the game plan? You got info on Artemis right?"
Alice sighed, "'He's been here for about three months now. He's Bonded to a tree spirit named Utan. According to the report, his magic is specialized in enhancements, specifically defensive. He doesn't seem to have much talent for offensive magic. That said, he spent his childhood beyond the Bastion, growing up as a woodcutter on the edge of a forest, so he's fairly athletic.'" Alice said, citing off what Roland had said 2 days prior.
Londo leaned back on his bed, "I really wanted to fight yesterday. So why did you lie about not being able to fight at the dinner the other day?"
Alice shrugged, "I didn't want to fight two days in a row. Besides, it worked out with your blessing being back up right? Plus, you got to talk with that girl you sexually harassed."
Londo shrugged back, still embarrassed about yesterday, "I guess… I can't apologize to her, so I gotta be in a positive shape until I can, I can't sit around moping about it now can I?"
Londo then beat his chest to pump himself up, "Let's go find Artemis now! Er, no after breakfast! We have plenty of time!"
Alice shrugged, but finished up her hair while Londo got dressed. Then they both went to the cafeteria to get a bite to eat.If they saw Artemis there, they would join him, if not, then they would start looking for him around the school, keeping in contact with Alice's phone and Londo's AMB.
---
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck was enjoying a breakfast of champions in the dining hall, feasting on scrambled eggs and pancakes, washed down with a tall glass of milk for building strong bones. Today was the day that his battle with his fated rival was to take place, and he wanted to be absolutely certain he was ready and raring to go! There was no way he was going to be in bad form because of something like hunger! And besides, Mama had always said to get three square meals a day.
And speak of destiny, there it was, staring at him from not far away! "Aha, my arch-nemesis! C'mon, join me! As the ancient knights of yore did, we shall feast before we do battle!"
---
Londo laughed maniacally, sitting down at the table across from Artemis. Londo too was enjoying Milk, as strong bones means strong people! Londo did not eat scrambled eggs and pancakes, however, as his plate actually had waffles and an omelette on it! Completely different things.
As Londo ate his breakfast, he stared at Artemis, then shrugged as if to say 'why not', "You know. I didn't do this with my last opponents, as I didn't have the time, but you seem like a nice guy! Tell you what, I'll tell you everything about me short of my ultimate technique, and you tell me you as well. I already know you got a tree spirit named Utah or something. We did a bit of reconnaissance on you, but I want our battle to be truly standing on equal ground! For today, you see, I have my ultimate technique ready to activate! So I shall be fighting at full power today! What do you say, pretty good deal right? It's ok if you refuse, as I can dig that."
Meanwhile, in the middle of her frosted flakes, Alice stared angrily at Londo, then set down her spoon, "Are you telling me I had to suck up to Roland to get info, and you're just going to exchange it anyways?"
Londo raised his hands in worry, "Heeey, it worked with the 2v2 right?"
"And by work do you mean-"
"Anyways!~" Londo said, interrupting Alice, who forcefully shoved a spoon into her bowl, "Deal is valid until the fight starts! What do you say?"
---
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck
Ah, to have such an honorable rival! This was the stuff of a warrior's dreams! "Indeed, this sounds like a fine plan! We shall share our powers so that there are no tricks when we come face-to-face on the battlefield! Yes, this is the way true warriors fight!"
"I'll go first. I can make myself and my allies tougher for a little bit with one of my spells, and with the other, I can create a set of wooden armor on myself! And I've been working on my swordsmanship, though of course I'm nowhere near as good as Master Batori. One day though..."
---
Londo nodded in response to Artemis's explanation of his ability. This was actually better, as Londo only knew that Artemis could make his allies and himself tougher, not the wooden armor bit. That would hinder his Touch of Death a bit so he needed to be careful. Even Alice raised an eyebrow at this, surprised that Londo managed to actually get info they did not know from this.
Londo nodded once more, "Alright then! I shall tell you my two abilities. First, I have a punch that can hit harder and knock people back further, while also being aspected to Lightning. Next, Alice, being a death-aspected spirit, can enhance my fist to apply a damage-over-time effect onto whatever I touch! Of course, I also have another trick up my sleeve, but that's my ultimate technique, and you'll hopefully be seeing that in battle! I'll give you a hint though." Londo explained, smirking, "This technique comes from the Great God Cadwgan himself, for which I am a disciple!" Londo said this, then started to finish off his waffles, which had a generous amount of syrup on them.
---
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck
Curse his sudden but inevitable betrayal! Londo shared some of his capabilities, but refused to divulge his most powerful power, a God's Blessing! Ah, wait, Londo had said that he'd share everything short of his ultimate technique, so it wasn't really much of a betrayal. But still! "Keeping your trump card hidden, eh? I can't say I'm not disappointed, but I guess we will have to see it later on. Speaking of which-" Artemisios finished up his plate, leaving no food abandoned. "When did you want to start? I'm always ready to go! Well, as long as I grab my gear first."
---
Londo smirked and mischievieously rubbed his hands, "Ultimate techniques are always the ones kept hidden until the moment they are used, otherwise it'd be useless to call it an ultimate technique right? Anyways, I'll meet you in the gym!" Londo said, giving him a thumbs up and beckoning Alice to follow, which she did.
On the way to the gym, Londo messaged someone on his AMB. That someone was Hibiscus, who had asked him 2 days prior if she could watch his matches. He had already been done with his first match by then, but he told her he would let her know when his second was. A short bit later, he received a message back with a confirmation, Hibiscus being awake to reply. Londo fist pumped, happy that a classmate of his could witness glory. In fact, he also messaged Ryan asking if he wanted to watch.
After a few minutes, Londo and Alice arrived at the gym, hopefully not needing to find a teacher, but if they did, they'd go looking for one, returning to the gym and stretching until Artemis arrived. Stretching was important! Hibiscus arrived a few moments later, and waved at Londo, smiling. Londo waved back, but continued to stretch.
---
Ryan Gamaris
As usual, Ryan was up early, and thus awake by the time Londo messaged him. He noticed it after he returned from showering. Ryan was cool with watching Londo battle, hopefully not as roughly as when they fought together. So he did reply to him, a few minutes later.
Sure! I'll be at the gym in a few minutes
True to his promise, Ryan arrived in a matter of minutes to the gym. He noticed Londo in the fighting area already, stretching. Ryan waved at him with a smile, before taking a seat as close to the action as possible.
---
Professor Eireann Blake
Much like when Londo and Ryan had arrived for their 2v2 the other day, a teacher was already seated in the gymnasium. "Ah, hello lad. Fighting or spectating?" Assuming that Londo answered that he was fighting, she'd then continue. "Right, your name please? I'll start getting things set up while you wait for your opponent."
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck
About five minutes after Londo arrived, Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck took the stage. He swept in with a swagger in his step, already wearing his Transformation. Well, presumably. Otherwise, he had pretty odd fashion choices. His sword belted on his left side, and the distinctive glint of a Spirit Core suggested that his Spirit was ready to rumble as well.
"Well well well, the time has come, my fated rival! This day, we shall see which of us is stronger! So yeah, let's have fun~"
---
Of course Londo said that he was participating, why wouldn't he? He was gloriously going to entertain, "Londo Sperry, the GREAT!, ready to fight! My opponent will be here shortly!"
Londo stopped stretching when his opponent walked into the gym. Londo smirked upon hearing his proclamation, and stuck out his hand, going for a handshake, "To you as well! Let's put up a good enough fight to impress my friends watching, eh?" Londo said finishing the handshake and moving to his side of the arena.
Londo took a deep breath, meditating in a standing position with his palms down in front of his stomach, then his eyes flared open and he raised his fists in the air, to the sides, then finally slammed them together, "へん かん する (Henkan Suru)!" He shouted, his appearance changing to show his appearance.
Londo then took a stance with his left side in front, and his feet a bit apart, his left hand in front, waiting for the teacher to call out for the battle start.
Londo Sperry, Londo Sperry… Professor Blake scrolled down the list of students, eyes skimming the names for the one in question. Ah, there it was. The opponent… Ah, that was a familiar name. And speak of the devil...
Artemisios Isidorus Rasseck
"Oh, hiya Teach! Wasn't expecting to see you as the overseer!"
"Well, I'm here. Get yourself ready, so you don't keep Sperry waiting."
"But of course!" Artemisios drew his shortsword and stepped to be about twenty meters away from Londo. He leveled the shortsword at his opponent. "Prepare yourself, my rival! This is the day where I shall crush you! Ready, Utan?"
"Hohoho, I might be a bit older than you whippersnappers, but I'm still good for a fight." A jolly, elderly man's voice sounded from the core on Artemisios's shortsword.
"Well then, let the battle begin. Play nice, boys." As Professor Blake spoke, she activated the gym's barriers to protect the area. Pale blue walls, not unlike the color of the Professor's own hair, rose up in a box, locking in the two boys and their spirits.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, Charged) Notes: Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Action Phase:
Still pointing the tip of his blade towards Londo, Artemisios began to chant an incantation of some type. "Oh energy of the trees, course through my veins! Let your power be manifested as armor for my body!" Green light began to pour forth from Utan's core, flowing across its body. As it did, it began to harden and change color, turning into a deep brown with a woody appearance, not unlike the bark of a tree. Every inch from head to toe was concealed in the wood, save for his head, which was exposed above the neck area.
Londo waited for his opponent to buff up, before clapping his hands together, "Just be sure to give our friends a good fight!" He shouted out, to some cheers on the sidelines.
He then took a walking start towards his opponent, "Prepare yourself!" Before taking off at a run towards Artemis, holding his left hand up in preparation in case his opponent counter-attacked.
Londo started with a simple few punches to test out his opponent's strength: The first one aimed at his chest with his right hand, the second also aimed at his chest with his left, but then third was aiming at his head with his right hand, holding his left hand back to prepare for the next attack.
Action Phase:
Then, with his left hand, Londo shot his left hand forwards, aiming for the chest of his opponent using a Fist of Fury, while holding up his right hand to guard just in case. He then immediately backed off, hopping backwards to secure some space in between them, his attack helping to do so.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, Charged) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
Artemisios smiled as Londo ran closer. As his rival closed the distance, Artemisios spoke again: "Power of life, come forth!" A small ring of green energy surrounded Artemisios, only lasting for a moment before fading out. With that, Artemisios was ready for his foe's strikes. He permitted the first two strikes to land on his chest without incident, letting his armor and defensive magic absorb most of the impact. His own left arm rose up to block Londo's third punch, preventing it from connecting with his unprotected head. And finally, another blow fell upon his chest, but this one had a bit more oomph behind it, sending him sliding back along the floor a short distance.
"Not bad, not bad. But now its my turn! BURST!" Recognizing its wearer's vocal command, the AMB on Artemisios's wrist sent a pulse of magical energy flowing into his body, imbuing him with heightened speed. Any distance that Londo had gained was closed almost immediately as Artemisios rushed forward, sword positioned on his left side extending past his left shoulder. The blade flashed diagonally downwards and right as Artemisios entered range, before being deftly brought back diagonally up and right to make a V shape. He added in a front kick to Londo's stomach with his left foot. Then, as his foot landed again, Artemisios spun 360 degrees around over his right shoulder, twirling to gain more momentum for a horizontal slash that would cut across Londo's chest from Artemisios's left to right. Finally, his arm came back to his side as he set it to be parallel with the ground, and then plunged it forward in a powerful thrust.
Artemis activated his module, which apparently was the speed variety, which caused him to gain more distance. Londo frowned in response. It didn't seem like his signature move 'Fist of Fury' was going to be of much use here. In fact it didn't seem like it had any use at all besides making him significantly more tired.
Artemis came at Londo, and Londo raised then lowered his gauntlets seperately in succession to block the attacks, but was met with a kick in the stomach for his troubles, unable to bring his guard back in time to block that. Seeing Artemis spin to attack, Londo raisd both gauntlets to block the attack, pushing against it to stand his own ground.
Then when Artemis brought his blade back, Londo moved towards him, as Artemis plunged his blade forwards. Londo raised his left hand to slide his gauntlet along the sword, then pushed left to deflect the sword away from him, throwing a punch with his right hand as he did so, followed by his left going for another punch in case he dodged or blocked that.
The absolute speed of his opponent reminded Londo of the gap between him and Sho, in his previous life, back when they fought their final battle. Londo had been just as fast as his opponent was now, but Sho still kept an overwhelming advantage in speed.
Action Phase:
If Artemis's armor was broken, Londo would shove his right hand forward, and touch his opponent's chest, applying a Touch of Death to him.
If it was not, Londo followed up with a kick to his opponent's shins, followed by two more punches to the chest, moving fowards to keep within his opponent's range and stop him from stopping Londo with his superior range. He kept his gauntlets up after they retreated from the punches to prepare for any other attack the opponent threw at him.
Either way, afterwards, Londo would breath out, trying not to tense up, and reply back to his opponent, "Wow. You're much faster than I thought you'd be for a tank. Plus you hit a lot harder than me. Guess all I really got going for me is my Blessing and Touch of Death if all I can do is just punch you."
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, 0/3 Charged), Forest's Vigor (Phase 2/3) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
As Artemisios's blade descended diagonally across Londo's body, Londo used his right gauntlet to keep the sword from entering his flesh. Similarly, when Artemisios continued into an upward swing, Londo deflected with his left gauntlet. Artemisios then plunged his foot forward into Londo's stomach, which certainly hurt less than having a sword in the gut but still did nothing good for Londo. Londo then blocked Artemisios's spinning attack by setting his right gauntlet atop his left.
(Londo's Right Gauntlet: -8 Durability)
(Londo: -7 Aura)
(Londo's Left Gauntlet: -8 Durability)
(Londo: -8 Aura)
(Londo: -8 Aura)
(Londo's Right Gauntlet: -10 Durability)
(Londo's Left Gauntlet: -5 Durability)
(Londo: -4 Aura)
Finally, as Artemisios thrust his blade in, Londo used his left gauntlet again to shift the sword away, taking the chance to close in and deliver some punches. The first punch slammed into Artemisios's armor, causing the wood to finally splinter and shatter into shards of magical energy, while the second landed cleanly on his chest.
Tssk, Artemisios's armor was never as tough as he wanted it to be. He frantically called up his magical power once again as Londo was thrusting his right hand forward, with the bark manifesting just in time to stop Londo's hand. However, it seemed there was some sort of evil power at work within his palm, as the wood began to wither and rot away.
(Bark Armor: -5 Durability)
(Artemisios: -4 Aura)
(Bark Armor has been afflicted with Touch of Death, Phase 0/5)
(Bark Armor: -15 Prana)
Action Phase:
(Bark Armor: -5 Durability)
"Hmm, that's kinda nasty. Sure glad I got my armor back up in time!" Artemisios cheerfully commented on Londo's latest strike as he began to resume his own offense. He wasn't nearly as fast as he had been before, seeing as how his AMB only allowed for a short speed boost, but he was hardly slow. The shortsword sliced its way from Artemisios's right to left and back again in two clean horizontal swings across Londo's chest, somewhere around the 7th rib. After those, Artemisios lunged forward with his left arm outstretched. He tried to wrap the arm around over Londo's shoulder, placing his hand on Londo's back so that he could prevent Londo from retreating easily as the right hand bearing the shortsword thrust the blade in towards Londo's navel.
Artemis came at Londo once again, and Londo raised his arms to guard against the attacks. Guarding with his left guantlet, then right guantlet, Londo tried to keep the attacks away from his face, but raising his gauntlet to take the last slice, as to perserve his gauntlets a bit.
When Artemis grabbed Londo's shoulder, he let him do so, and as he stabbed Londo, Londo reached for Artemis's unguarded head, touching his face and applying a Touch of Death to his self as well, "Eye for an eye, right?" Londo said between gasping breaths. Then he used his right hand to push away Artemis's arm, while pushing him with his left.
Action Phase:
Londo stood a few feet away from Artemis, smirking while holding up his gauntlets in an attempt at catching his breath and defense, "How's the curse feel? Second time I've use it against another person, and I'm dying to know what it's like." He said, chuckling to himself at the pun.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, 1/3 Charged), Touch of Death on Bark Armor (Phase 1/5) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
(Bark Armor: -5 Durability)
Londo raised his fists to block Artemisios's first two attacks, letting the sound of steel striking steel reverberate through the area. From there, Artemisios closed in, snaking an arm around Londo to better drive home a powerful stab. Having his face touched was a small price to pay as a result, though it was a bit embarrassing to have another guy touching his face.
(Londo's Left Gauntlet: -8 Durability)
(Londo: -8 Aura)
(Londo's Right Gauntlet: -8 Durability)
(Londo: -8 Aura)
(Londo: -19 Aura)
(Artemisios: -10 Aura)
(Artemisios has been afflicted with Touch of Death, Phase 0/5)
As negative energy began to course through his veins and Londo broke free, Artemisios couldn't help but cough a bit. "Eugh, I can't say I'm having fun with it. But don't think something like that is going to stop me!" Indeed, even if this magic were to eat away at his body, he was confident that he could endure the pain. Besides, his AMB's quickening powers seemed to be hard at work at alleviating a bit of the suffering.
Well then, time for a bit of payback. He could go after Londo's gauntlets; they seemed a little worse for wear, after all. But that wouldn't be very sportsmanlike, would it? Better just aim for Londo himself. As Artemisios went in swinging, his shortsword would flash through the air, trying to cut its way first into Londo's chest with a horizontal cleave from Artemisios's right to left. As his arm swung back again, though, he deftly tilted the blade diagonally downward, turning the second horizontal strike into nothing more than a fake-out as it became a diagonal downward slash from Artemisios's left to right.
As he finished his diagonal slash, Artemisios cocked his left fist back, before throwing it forward in a left hook. While Londo was hopefully reeling from that blow, Artemisios would swing his sword vertically upwards,trying to bisect Londo from perineum to nose. He then finished off with a thrust kick from his right leg to Londo's stomach, intending to wind Londo and maybe make Londo stagger back a bit.
Not good... Londo felt himself pretty tired already, not from his stamina usage, but his aura status. Meanwhile, Artemis looked good and ready to go. Luckily, Londo still had his blessing up, and Artemis would suffer from his curse for a bit anyways. Although, that AMB would reduce his curse as well... Why did Londo get the feeling this guy was just tailor-made to counter him?
As Artemis came in, Londo raised his left gauntlet to block the attack, putting his arm at his side to give him more stability, all the while moving in and thrusting his right hand at Artemis's chest, forming energy in his hands with a Fist of Fury, hopefully knocking him back far enough to cancel the rest of his attacks, since he would only have gone for his action phase if he had finished the diagonal slash.
If that didn't work, Londo would keep guarding against the onslaught, holding his right arm outthe same way he did his left, and when Artemis faked out his attack, Londo pivoted his arm downwards into the attack to block that. Afterwards, he raised his gauntlet slightly to block the punch, his right hand to his stomach to block the sword, then using both hands to block the kick.
Action Phase:
If knocking away Artemis did work, Londo would go back on the offensive, running towards him and crouching down a bit before pushing himself forwards and attacking with his right hand, aimed in an upwards angle towards Artemis's chest. Not exactly an uppercut, but a punch aiming upwards using the force of his push. If Artemis dodged that, Londo would follow up with a left hook if he dodged to Londo's left, or a kick with his right leg if he had dodged to the right. If he had ducked, Londo would knee him instead, and if he moved backwards to dodge, Londo would push off again to attack with his right hand.
Regardless, Londo would then attack with his opposite hand, followed by him raising his foot and kicking artemis in the stomach like he wanted to do to him.
If the knockback did not work, then Londo would likely be very deep in the red, or his blessing would have activated. So Londo would charge in once again, attacking the same way as his current action phase would go.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, 2/3 Charged), Touch of Death on Bark Armor (Phase 2/5), Touch of Death on Artemisios (Phase 0/4) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
Artemisios's sword connected once more with Londo's left gauntlet. But as he was switching his blade's angle for a diagonal slash, Londo slammed his fist into Artemisios's chest, blasting Artemisios a few meters back. As such, Artemisios's AP never came to pass.
(Londo's Left Gauntlet: -8 Durability)
(Londo: -8 Aura)
The rotting wood that had begun to cave beneath the punch's force finally gave way as the curse devoured the last of its strength. Additionally, the effects of the curse upon Artemisios himself began to manifest.
(Bark Armor: -5 Durability)
(Bark Armor has been destroyed)
(Artemisios: -5 Aura)
Londo didn't let the time Artemisios spent recovering his stance go to waste. Fist ready for action, Londo closed the distance he had created and punched at Artemisios's chest from below. But just as the fist was about to strike, it found itself slamming into another Bark Armor. Londo hadn't particularly anticipated that Artemisios might not move, but as Londo wasn't incapable of thinking on the fly, he settled for popping off a left hook all the same. The hook was able to connect cleanly with the side of Artemisios's head, but the same could not be said for Londo's later attacks. His vague punch with his right hand collided with the flat of Artemisios's blade, deftly interposed between the two of them. The kick was likewise stopped, though of course Londo had no way of knowing that Artemisios had been previously thinking about using a kick.
This fight only proved that Londo was indeed Artemisios's fated rival. Who else would be able to so evenly match Artemisios? Upon thinking this, Artemisios's subconscious very quickly began repressing the various mental images of all of his other classmates who could beat him. Yes, surely Londo was truly the one.
Still though, Londo had yet to use his Blessing, at least as far as Artemisios could tell, and this curse was really starting to do a number on him. Artemisios didn't mind losing, but there was no way he could let it end without at least forcing Londo to use his ultimate ability. He couldn't endure much more himself, so he would need to concentrate on defense until he could spot an opening. Therefore, he gained a bit of distance from Londo while keeping his sword ready to block incoming strikes. As he moved, he called upon Utan's power to imbue himself with vital energy once again, surrounding himself in a small ring of green light.
Londo let out a deep breath, giving himself time to breath. Artemis hadn't attacked back, but instead was using his skills to beef himself up. Unlike Caoihme, Londo could afford to take a breather.
"You are one tought nut to crack, I'd love to be able to fight alongside you one day."
Action Phase:
And Londo still waited, gathering his breath and energy. Even if Artemis was allowed to recover a bit, it would be worth it as Londo could recover his Aura as well.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, 3/3 Charged), Touch of Death on Artemisios (Phase 2/4), Forest's Vigor (Phase 0/3) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
(Artemisios: -5 Aura)
"You're pretty strong yourself. And that curse is some nasty stuff. But I'm not done quite yet. Let's end this, my rival! BURST!"
Imbued with the hastening energy of his AMB, Artemisios exploded into action. He wouldn't last much longer. In fact, if he couldn't finish it now, who knew whether he'd be able to finish it at all?
First off, he had to close in. He had no ranged abilities to speak of, and right now he was really wishing he had accepted Caoimhe's offer to teach him some fire magic. But Londo didn't have any ranged attacks either, so Artemisios could probably trust him to stay put. Londo would try to guard or retaliate rather than just running away. Knowing this, Artemisios cocked his right arm back as he ran in, as if he were about to use a thrust against Londo. A thrust was a good way to take advantage of his sword's superior range, but it would also leave him a bit exposed. Londo would probably try to guard, or just barely dodge, the thrust and make use of the opening to counter…
That's why Artemisios wouldn't leave an opening. The thrust preparation was merely to fake Londo out. At the last moments of his charge, Artemisios would drop down into a roll, so that when the roll was complete he could make a clean horizontal cut from his right to left across Londo's front lower legs. Hopefully, Londo would be distracted by the sudden change in attacks and be too slow to react accordingly. But for good measure, Artemisios would move his left arm up above his head as soon as possible after the roll to prevent Londo from just slamming a fist through his skull.
Following his first slash, Artemisios exploded upwards back to a standing position, using the force of his upward momentum to add to a vertical swing upwards through Londo's body. He then slammed his right foot down, trying to stomp on Londo's left foot. As he stomped, the sword that had completed its vertical arc upwards twisted out to Artemisios's right for a moment before he slashed back in with a diagonal downwards swing from Artemisios's upper right to lower left. And just before the tip of his blade began to dip down towards the ground again, he stopped its downward motion and slammed the shortsword forward into a stab, using his left hand on the pommel to add a bit more force.
And unlike before, Artemisios wasn't going to just give up on his attacks, were Londo to interrupt him somehow. Should one attack be prevented somehow, he'd simply move on to the next strike. Nothing short of a decisive blow would make him stop.
(Attack x5: -25 Stamina)
Action Phase:
(Artemisios: -5 Aura)
If that hadn't been enough to stop Londo, well, that was probably that. Artemisios would slide his sword in front of him to defend with the flat of the blade as he gained a bit of distance to catch his breath.
The quick breath was something Londo really needed. And he raised his fist in anticipation for Artemis's Burst and his subsequent stab. Only the stab didn't go through, and Artemis was rolling towards Londo. Londo's eyes widened, realizing he had been tricked and was only able to bring his right leg back as his left leg was hit by Artemis's slash. However, instead of Londo slamming a fist into Artemis's skull, Londo instead kicked his right leg forwards, moving his body forwards as well, hitting Artemis with his leg instead of his fist, which would probably help Artemis stand up faster as well, as he slashed Londo's body upwards. It would probably not be barely enough to kick Londo into 0 Aura, but if it did, he would shout, "Behold, my Glorious Blessing bestowed upon me by Cadwgan! This is our final moments in this battle, make it count!" As his Aura shattered, releasing glass fragments for a split second, before rapidly closing back in on Londo, shimmering back into place.
And as Artemis slammed his foot onto Londo's, Londo raised his left hand to guard against the slash he was throwing out towards Londo, as Londo punched with his right hand into Artemis's face, using the fact that they would be at a close distance to move in slightly as he was attacking Londo and stepping on his foot. However, if he was not close enough, Londo would instead kick with his right foot into Artemis's side, while using both hands to guard against his attack.
Londo would then move his right hand in either case downwards, following Artemis's sword, and use it to guard against the stab he was throwing out.
And now, if Londo had survived thus far, he would continue his attack. Using the fact that Artemis was tired and trying to guard, Londo pushed forwards, attacking Artemis with a jab to the chest, followed by a hook with his left hand.
Action Phase:
Then to finish it off, if Artemis had not been already, or if he had not given up. Londo slightly ducked, putting effort into an uppercut, "Shoryuken!" as he leapt off the ground to do so, then used his right leg to kick Artemis squarely in the chest, following it up with a double-handed overheaded slam.
Action Phase Aura loss not deducted yet, as other damage will be taken prior to his AP.
• STR: C • VIT: E • WIL: E • RES: E
• SPD: C • DEX: E • PER: D • REC: D Current Effects: Swiftness (AMB, Passive), Burst (AMB, 0/3 Charged), Touch of Death on Artemisios (Phase 3/4), Forest's Vigor (Phase 3/3) Notes:
Utan is in Core form within the Shortsword
Everything from the neck down is protected by Bark Armor
(Start of Turn: +6 Prana, +13 Stamina)
Reaction Phase:
Artemisios's deception seemed to work out in his favor, as Londo definitely seemed to be caught off guard by it. Still, Londo was able to escape the worst of the first strike by pulling back his right leg, only receiving a wound on his left. In turn, Londo kicked out at Artemisios, his foot thudding against the wood protecting Artemisios. Unfortunately, Londo's foot was not nearly as good a weapon as his fists. From the sidelines, Professor Blake wondered if perhaps Londo ought to invest in some steel-toed boots.
Artemisios sprang upwards with a vertical slash, cutting along Londo's front. This slash wasn't quite enough to break through Londo's Aura though. As Artemisios's foot came down, Londo's fist closed in on his face. The two connected almost simultaneously, and the distinct final cracking of Aura could be heard as it gave way. Had she only been monitoring with her eyes, Professor Blake might've found it challenging for a moment to tell who's Aura had been broken. Then again, Londo's declaration took away any confusion anyone might've had.
("Lion's Heart" has activated)
(Londo: +15 Aura)
(Londo gains 2 levels of Great Buffs to his Vitality and Resistance for 4 Phases)
"Whoa, so that's a God's Blessing? SO COOOOOOOOOL!" Artemisios couldn't help but fawn over the awesome power for a moment before refocusing. Admiration could wait; neither boy had surrendered yet.
Artemisios resumed his attack sequence, having paused for dramatic effect earlier. A slash diagonally downwards from Artemisios's upper right to lower left cut across Londo's chest, though it felt like it was far harder to cut Londo than it had been before. Artemisios's flurry finished with a final thrust forward, but this attack was intercepted by Londo's right gauntlet. The sound of screeching metal on metal filled the room as the sword skidded along the gauntlet, being deflected off to the air on Londo's right side.
Londo wasted no time in following up, plunging his right fist forward with a jab to Artemisios's chest. Though the boy intercepted the punch with the flat of his blade, the impact was still just enough to shatter the last of his own Aura.
(Shortsword: -4 Durability)
(Bark Armor: -3 Durability)
(Artemisios: -2 Aura)
(Artemisios's Aura has been broken)
There wasn't enough time for Artemisios to intercept the following hook to the side of his face. The impact knocked a small "Guh!" out of Artemisios as his face was forcibly displaced from its previous position. Part of it might've also been from the last of Londo's curse taking effect around that time too. Either way, Artemisios was far from his ideal condition at this point, and Londo seemed like he was still ready to continue.
"Ah damn. I yield!"
Professor Eireann Blake
Upon hearing Artemisios's declaration, Professor Blake deactivated the barrier and stood up. "The battle is complete. Londo Sperry is the victor~" She moved over to stand beside Artemisios, inspecting his body for a moment. "Your injuries don't seem particularly bad. You should be fine even without healing, so long as you don't do anything stupid for a bit."
"Don't worry! I'm feeling better already!" To prove his point, Artemisios threw out a broad smile and a thumbs-up.
"Oh really?" A hint of a teasing tone entered the professor's voice as she continued. "Then surely you won't mind if I double tomorrow's training regimen~"
"Please don't."
"Hehe, you're always so easy to tease, Artemisios. Well, my shift here is done. Congratulations to you both on a good fight." Then, with one last wink at the two boys, Professor Blake turned and walked away.
Londo huffed as he was about to launch his final assault, but Artemis surrendered. Londo let out a breath of exhaustion, followed by throwing his fist in the air, and looking down in a cool-looking pose, "That was for you Cadwgan!" Londo declared, as Hibiscus and presumably Ryan made their way to Londo, "That was amazing! It looked close!"
"It was close! And glorious!" Londo replied before going up to Artemis, who had just finished speaking with the teacher, and sticking out his hand, "Good fight to you! If my future fight or fights are even half as good as this one was, I'll be satisfied with the tournament!"
Ryan silently watched the brawl ensue from the sidelines silently for a while. Taking mental notes of Londo's moves, while thinking of ways of working in tandem with said moves. The art of battle sure was fun to watch and practice. It even took his mind off… "Dammit..." Ryan's usual enthusiasm and energy went away. Replaced by a lost in the distance expression and tired body language. Ryan didn't bother watching the end of the battle, too distracted to do so properly. Even after hearing the announcement of his friend's victory, he barely reacted. Ryan looked up, finding Londo posing when he did. He no longer felt like doing much, but Ryan managed to convince himself of trying to support Londo, at least a little. Following Hibiscus' example, he slowly got up and walked towards Londo. Ryan inhaled deeply, and gave Londo a couple of highly unenthusiastic pats on the shoulder, and accompanied by a frail smile, he said "Good job, Londo… You too, Alice"
Londo nodded to himself, apparently too busy revelling in the moment of glory to notice anything, while Hibiscus stared at Ryan, not knowing how to respond to the obvious downtrodden person.
Londo started posing to himself, and Hibiscus quickly grabbed his arm and dragged him away from Ryan, speaking to him properly without anyone else there, "H-Hey… I think something is up with Ryan. He seems down about something…"
Londo put a hand on his chin and thought about it for a moment, and shrugged, "Hmm. Well, if it is, we have no business butting into it. It could be something personal, or something he gotta solve by himself! While it is important to rely on others, he's gotta ask for help first."
Hibiscus fidgeted on the spot, "W-Well, I guess you're right… At least make sure he's ok then."
Londo turned away from Hibiscus, walking back to the others, thinking about his own predicament, that left him downtrodden for days, "Yea. I'm sure he'll be fine, he's just gotta think his problem over and how to solve it. If he can't, then he's gotta ask for help." Before giving a wave to the others, "Thank you for showing up, Ryan! Can't do it without ya! And Artemis, I look forward to meeting you again!" He said walking back past Hibiscus before patting her on the shoulder, "Thanks for worrying about Ryan though. I'm sure he can get through it!" Before leaving the gym and walking back to his room for a little bit of comfort time.
Along the way, Alice materialized, walking behind Londo, "Sure that was the right call? Maybe Ryan couldn't ask for help for some reason."
Londo dismissed it with a hand wave, "I'm sure Hibiscus will take care of it. She won't just leave him like that, or Ryan will ask her for help. Either way, it can be solved. I'm usually not good with that kinda stuff…"
Alice said nothing, and returned back to core form, and they both went back to the room without another word.
Artemisios took the hand offered by Londo and shook it firmly. "Indeed, it was a great fight! Of course, this means that you'll need to be the one who wins this tournament, especially since you've already taken out your greatest opponent. Oh here, let's trade numbers!" Not taking no for an answer, Artemisios forced his contact info upon his rival. "Be sure to let me know when your next battle is. See ya!" Artemisios then departed from the Gym so that Londo could hang out with his friends.
Londo and Artemisios have a GLORIOUS fight that ends in Londo's victory when Artemisios is forced to surrender to avoid potentially fatal strikes. Hibiscus and Ryan get to watch the battle along with 1A's teacher, Professor Blake.
Setting: The Academy, August 1st, 199 NWC. ~17:00
Collab between Ryan @Valkan and the twins Rose and Prim Bellamy.
Rose Bellamy
Prim Bellamy
Prim and Rose were just returning from an intense afternoon of training when they suddenly spotted a familiar face. "Hey, it's Ryan." Rose alerted her sister. The latter didn't wait for long to sprint over to Ryan. "Hey Ryan, what's up? You look down. Are you still have trouble with your love life?" She had flawlessly remembered how he had dodged her latest question at the dinner. Would she finally be able to pry at the supposedly creepy things he was into at this time and place?
Rose, luckily, was there to somewhat soften the tone. "Hello! Don't worry to much about what Prim's saying, but if something's going on, you can tell us. We haven't been here for much longer, but we're technically still your seniors, after all."
After having a pretty bad day yesterday, Ryan thought that a good training session and some meditation in the forest would help him ease his mind, but his encounters from yesterday kept haunting him. Was he wrong? Was life truly worth that little? Were truly Pythios and Rainer the ones in the right? Questions like those continued to plague his head, preventing him from getting even a decent night's sleep. That affected his performance while training, and interrupted his meditation constantly. As it was getting late, Ryan walked back to the main campus, but feeling utterly exhausted, he decided to sit in a bench to rest a little. He placed himself right in the center, so that he could rest his arms on the back of it, not bothering on taking off his greaves. His baggy eyes lost in the vast afternoon sky. He wasn't sure of how much time passed until a familiar voice called out to him. His tired face slowly lowered, only to meet the energetic twins from class 1A. Prim was quick to shoot, as in the dinner. Having talked to them, combined with mental exhaustion, eroded his shyness towards the pair. "Hey Prim. Hey Rose..." His voice matching his face. "I..." Ryan tried to think of an answer for Prim, but luckily Rose made the save for him. She was offering themselves as a way to vent "... It's… it's nothing really" Ryan said, trying to play down his noticeably bad state of mind.
Nothing. As if. No, this meant it was time to go on the attack, and Prim new exactly how to go about it. Luckily enough, Ryan had already placed himself exactly where he needed to be! "That definitely doesn't sound like nothing!" Prim said, as she boldly took place right next to Ryan.
Prim's action, however, placed Rose in the awkward position of having to keep standing in front of the both of them, or taking place on Ryan's other side. A little nudge from Prim, almost unnoticeable, made her go for the second option, as she sat down on Ryan's other side. "Are you in a fight with someone, or are you homesick or something?" Her questioned sounded a little more like concern than they did like prying, compared to her sister's prodding.
Ryan got quite shocked by the twins' next move. His face remained tired, but was now tinted slightly red when they basically pinned him in place. "I… er..." he mumbled to Prim, only to then hear from Rose. Her apparent concern surprised Ryan, enough to consider opening up a little. He had in mind talking to Almeida about it, but since the twins were offering themselves to help, he might as well give it a go. "The forest reminds me of home enough… it's more of… like..." Ryan wasn't sure of how to put it, so it took him a moment to think about it "Something two guys told me… it makes me doubt how to feel about… everything"
Something two guys told him made him doubt how he felt about everything...? A second passed. A second second passed. A third second passed. Then it hit Prim. "Ah!" She halted herself just in time to avoid making a careless statement, trying to re-frame it a little more delicate. That said, she suddenly understood why he didn't have a girlfriend yet. "That's okay, a lot of people get confused when they start exploring their feelings and orientation. You shouldn't let others push you into something you don't want, but it's perfectly fine to explore your true feelings, even if that might turn you towards guys instead of girls, or maybe even towards both."
Rose, who hadn't been able to keep up with the conversation, suddenly had it 'click' when Prim finished talking. "That's right, a lot of people are that way, which is perfectly fine, although it might be a matter of exploring yourself to find out what works for you."
The silence of the twins got Ryan thinking. Maybe it was too much for them? But then again, he hadn't gotten to the real problem yet… so, what had them thinking so much? And then they went ahead and did it. Ryan's face blushed heavily as the twins ushered him to accept his homosexuality… "WHAT!? Nonononono! You got it wrong, I like girls! Ah-" Upon saying something so embarrassing, he felt like running away at full throttle… but he was trapped. "Nnnn..." he couldn't even hide his face. This was awful for him. But hey, it managed to get his mind off death for once.
Well, that was an confession of sorts. It wasn't exactly what Prim was looking for, but she'd take it. The problem was that this only left her with more questions. Of course the previous question of how he was still single, but more importantly, the question what else two guys would tell him about to make him feel down this much.
"Are you sure?" It was a stupid question, but Rose had asked it before she realized. "Eh, scrap that, I mean, what else is bothering you then?"
Prim happily joined on that train of questions, for once not having instigated it. "Yeah, those guys would have to have been saying some pretty nasty stuff to get you down like this. Is this one of those manly pride kind of things?"
Ryan's eyes were pinned to the ground, he still couldn't believe he said that. At this point, embarrassment left him wide open. After all, why bothering hiding his problem from someone offering to help, or at least, so it seemed. Rose first question were under the radar, but Ryan was able to focus in time for the second one, once he realized he was being talked to. And Prim's efforts were also noticed. But Ryan was doubtful on how to acknowledge them. With nothing but going straight at it on his head, Ryan obliged. "... Is… Is death really meaningless?"
"Eh?" "Huh?" The two sisters uttered a sound of confusion at the same time. The problem was coming pretty much out of nowhere, and was pretty different from what they'd expected. It was Rose whom managed to gather her thoughts together to formulate a question first. "What do you mean by that?" Prim was quick to add on to it. "Yeah, and who's telling you that?"
Ryan's face remained unchanged. He knew it was a strange concern, but Pythios and Rainer had him way too into that thought. Rose seemed to be unsure of what he meant, while Prim seemed to catch on, and instead asked for who told him such things. Ryan answered to Prim first "It doesn't matter… Especially if they're right..." Then it was Rose's turn "What if death doesn't matter? If we're insignificant enough for our deaths to not be important? Are the deaths of others supposed to not affect us?" Clearly, he had given this way more thought than he should, and moreover, way more thought than the ones who planted this idea in him.
"They're wrong!" Prim yelled, clearly feeling upset that someone would even say those things. "Of course it matters, after all..." She didn't finish her sentence, hoisting herself up from the bench instead to walk back and forth a bit. It seemed like Ryan had almost brought up something personal that she wasn't really ready to throw out there yet.
Rose picked up where she left off, albeit at a far more calm tone. "It's only natural to feel bad about others getting hurt, and death is the worst way to get hurt. Even if mages do get resurrected, it's wrong to think that means death is insignificant, as that means life itself becomes equally insignificant." She paused for a moment to further work out her answer to this odd question. "I think that you give away something crucial about yourself if you stop being bothered by the suffering of others, including their death, of course. It's like you're cutting off part of your humanity." Prim was just violently nodding along with her sister's words.
Ryan was dejected, his eyes lacking any trace of hope. Awaiting the worse. But his growing pessimistic thoughts were cut off by Prim. His head slowly elevated to meet her gaze. Her words struck Ryan hard, as he could tell she truly felt what she was saying. It also seemed to hit a nerve, as she cut off. He was in no mood to try and help her through it, so he stayed quiet. Instead his eyes now were following as she paced her own thoughts off. Then Rose carried on, and though she seemed calm, Ryan could feel the same way about her words. Still doubtful and hesitant in his voice, Ryan answered "...So I'm not crazy for thinking death matters?" his eyes gaining a glimmer of hope as she looked at Rose for an answer.
Rose shook her head. "Definitely not.""The others are crazy for thinking it doesn't." Prim added.
Suddenly, Prim seemed to flare up. A glint in her eyes showed that she had already progressed towards another topic, and it wasn't a promising one. At least not for Ryan's innocence. "You know what is crazy though? What that other guy did in your tournament battle... What was his name again?"
Rose had a guess at the ready. "Something like Rondo?" Prim was eager to just go with it. "Right, Rondo. It's a pretty major thing among the girls in our class, how he just did and said that!"
Suddenly, Prim drew an additional conclusion, clapping her hands together. "Ah, now I get it! You can't get a girlfriend because you hang out with perverts like him! I bet you'd do a lot better if you avoided hanging out with guys with that kind of reputation!"
Ryan let out a massive sigh of relief, and his tensed up body forced against the bench relaxed. "...Thank you. I… I needed to hear that" he said, with a thankful expression. Someone else, however, wasn't as happy. "I told you exactly that. Several times, actually" an irritated voice resounded from his core, materializing a few steps away from Ryan, with his arms crossed. "You would tell everyone the sky is green if that were to make me happy, even if everyone called you crazy... or daltonic, hehe..." Ryan said, still smiling. Knowing Tidrog would probably do something like that for him. The spirit's bothered expression remained unchanged and silent for a moment, then he turned around and started walking away "I'll go for a walk. See you in our room... Prim, Rose." he addressed the twins with a nod and went on his way. Ryan's smile waned a little, could he have truly hurt Tidrog's feelings? Unlikely, but still possible. He didn't have much time to ponder on it, as the twins were still there, and they weren't done with him. The subject matter wasn't very pleasing, but it was better than the previous one for sure. Prim asked for a name, and Ryan was about to answer, but Rose shot first. Missing slightly, while at it. Ryan was once again about to talk, but Prim rolled with it. "That slap sure did cost Londo a lot..." Ryan thought. Finally, Prim jumped to a conclusion related to her favorite topic, Ryan's love life. His smile faded some more, and red started to flush his face, but he managed to not lose it for once. "No, Londo isn't a pervert. He is too innocent to actually do such a thing with that intention… He was just trying to get the advantage. Once he realized the consequences of what he did, he felt terrible. He even felt the urgency of apologizing immediately for what he did once he put the pieces together..." that last part wasn't entirely true, but he didn't want to cause more issues to his friend. As for Prim "Anyway, why are you so interested in me getting a girlfriend or not?" Though embarrassed, he certainly felt more comfortable with the twins. Now that they helped him through his existential crisis, the least he could do is play along. After asking Prim that vital question, Ryan's head tilted upwards and he looked at the sky for a few seconds. As if remembering something, he smiled again. And focused back on Rose for a moment, then to Prim, where he waited for an answer.
Happy that Ryan was happy, Rose returned the smile. However, both she and Prim were soon surprised by a rare sight. A spirit like Tidrog throwing a tantrum wasn't all that common, after all. They did understand his reason for it, making Prim turn to Ryan after Tidrog had left. "You're sounding a bit pampered there, you know." Prim said it in a pretty blunt and straightforward way, continuing at the same pace. "Not trusting someone because you expect them to lie for your sake isn't really something you should casually tell them to their face." Rose nodded and added; "You should probably apologize."
There were more fun topics to talk about though, so Prim was quick to change her tone. "Just to get an advantage, eh?" Prim repeated the statement in a questioning way, clearly not really buying into it. "I doubt someone can be that stupid." Rose disagreed. "Maybe he just grew up really sheltered or something." Prim just shrugged it off.
However, Prim soon found herself at the other end of the interrogation table. "Eh?""She's like that with most people, please don't take it too serious." Rose replied before Prim could formulate an answer, but that didn't stop her from adding her own answer afterwards. "It's because it's a really fun topic, of course, what else could it be~?"
The twins seemed concerned by Tidrog's mood, bashing Ryan for it. He was quick to respond to Prim's first comment, "I know… I try to avoid it, but he's very determined to act that way with me." Prim carried on, bringing up a good point, which Rose seemed to agree with "Well… you got me there… It's just..." Ryan's already hesitant words came to a halt, where he took a deep breath to encourage himself to continue "... It's just that those death thoughts had me really freaked out. I was starting to think I would lose it… And I wholeheartedly believe Tidrog would do such a thing if it made me feel any better, that's all. He's quite, er, protective? Protective." After another brief pause, Ryan continued. His thoughts were still hazy, despite the relief these two brought him "He's not really angry though, he has a thick hide. Something like that wouldn't really phase him. And he isn't one to honestly throw a fit. I wonder why the act then… Anyway, if it makes you both feel any better though, I'll apologize later."
With the Tidrog situation settled Prim went back to the previous topic. She doubted one could be that dumb. Ryan wasn't sure of what to say, as he was more than sure that Londo wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed, but he was his friend regardless, and calling him stupid behind his back wasn't a nice thing to do to a friend. Ryan just moved his head as if to show some agreement towards Rose's theory.
As for Prim, she seemed to be caught off guard by Ryan's question, which he found odd. Rose tried to make the save, but Ryan wasn't buying it entirely. There had to be some reason. Prim provided one, but it didn't stick with Ryan either. So, although embarrassing, he tried to beat her on her own game… In one move, hopefully. He probably couldn't stand much more if his opponent got serious. "Oh, I don't know… progressing in your own love live or something? Haha" Ryan smiled teasingly, with some red refusing to leave his face, even though he threw in a cheeky laugh and all.
After a fairly long discussion of Tridrog, Ryan suddenly went full in on the attack, forcing Prim to use her ultimate defense move. "Sure, if you want to give it a shot, you can ask me out whenever~"
Rose, however, suddenly betrayed the sisterly bond. "I think most guys are afraid they won't be able to keep up with her."
"Hey!"
"It's true though!" Rose defended her statement.
"Well, maybe, but that doesn't mean you talk about it. Besides, I'm pretty sure Susanna would scare anyone off anyhow."
Rose didn't reply, which seemed to be a silent confirmation. Ryan wasn't the only one with someone protective watching over them, it seemed.
Ryan was right to hesitate on pulling the trigger. Prim didn't hold anything back, despite appearing flustered mere moments ago. Ryan's mind drew blanks, despite racing wildly at the thoughts that Prim's words caused. His mouth was left slightly agape, but uttered no sound.
Rose decided to give him a hand. But Ryan decided to cease fire, despite trying before, he wasn't ready for such conversations… And apparently, he wasn't alone. Instead, he watched as the sisters came to agree on it being on her big sister. Almost thoughtlessly, Ryan asked "Your big sister, huh?... She doesn't seem scary though. Maybe the guys you've met have pushed the wrong button or something"
Prim counted this as a triumphant victory on her part. Little did Ryan know that all he would've had to say was 'sure, how about tomorrow' or something along those lines, and she'd have been the one with steam coming from both ears and without any words left to say.
Rose shook her head at Ryans suggestion. It would've required them to have introduced Susanna to any possible boyfriends to begin with, which hadn't happened yet, but that was a fact that Ryan didn't need to learn about. "Susanna's a little..." She doubted for a bit. "I'm not sure how to say it."
Prim tried picking up where Rose ended. "She's starting to become a bit obsessed, I think. It's a bit worrying."
Rose nodded, albeit not in the surest of ways. "Yes, but she's got her reasons..."
Ryan tilted his head, surprised. It sounded like they weren't sure, but something appeared to be wrong with Susanna. Based on their previous comments, they should be confident on Susanna's 'obsessive' behavior… What changed so much? Ryan decided to go in blindly and asked "Why? I don't see anything wrong with you two. It's the other way around, actually..." sounding like he was thinking out loud, because he was.
Both sisters were a little confused by the odd comment, but Prim was quicker to abuse use it. "Are you sure? I've always been told I pry too much, but I guess I should stop worrying about it~"
"You do pry a little too often though..." Rose said, although it was more of a mumble than a clearly spoken sentence. In either case, she turned to Ryan again, this time speaking aloud. "We're just worrying that she's overdoing her practicing, and that she'll end up hurt as a result. Whenever we bring it up, however, she just tries to convince us to spent every minute of the day practicing as well." Rose sighed. "I can't blame her though..."
Suddenly, Prim seemed to take on the role of the responsible one for a change. "It's a difficult situation, but I'm sure we'll figure things out."
Ryan smiled at Prim, finding her answer almost endearing. Be it modesty, or just another joke, it was good to hear. "Every person has their quirks, that doesn't make you any less of a good person just as you are" still noticeably grateful, he added "That goes for the both of you"
Not noticing her mumble, Ryan turned to Rose just after her comment on her big sister. Ryan just made the first question that came to mind "What happened?" It took him a couple of seconds to realize he may be overstepping his boundaries "I-I-I mean, if you don't mind me asking" their follow-up words made him think so, at least.
Prim was surprised to be taken serious, and combined with the context of that seriousness, she couldn't avoid having her cheeks show a tad bit of a blush. The extension of the complement toward her twin was quick to diminish it, as she gathered he thoughts. It turned out to be a good thing, as the next question was a tough one to answer. Rose was looking at her, but the best she could do was to stare back.
Eventually, Rose broke the silence. "Our parents went missing, first our father, then when a mother went looking for him, she went missing as well..." She wasn't able to finish the sentence, so Prim took over. "Susanna thinks that it's up to us to find them, because we've bonded with the artificial spirits our parents made, but we don't even know where to start."
Having regained some of her composure, Rose continued. "Susanna's been training more and more, and sometimes I'm afraid she'll suddenly leave to find our parents and vanish as well." Prim interjected. "I don't think she'd do so. She's been trying to get us to focus on getting stronger, which is also why she won't like it if we're getting boyfriends instead, so I think she wants us to come with her when we're strong enough to set out." Both sisters left it at that, as they'd probably dropped enough of a bombshell already.
Not again… Someone was in trouble, and he was there on his own to answer. This time, however, Ryan wouldn't commit the same mistake as back with Elisa. He had to at least try and support them, it's the least he could do. At first, he seemed taken aback and surprised, they seemed normal enough to have come from such a tragedy… but some people can handle hardships better than others, or at least learn to hide their pain. Ryan hoped their case was the former. He already hated they had to go through something like that enough. By the end of their tale, he was visibly worried, but at the same time he had a solemn expression "I… I know it must be tough. I..." Ryan paused to consider how to continue "I almost lost one of my parents right in front of me… it was awful. And that's not even counting the danger they're at plenty of times, due to their job. And still, I don't even want to know the dread of not knowing if I lost both of them. You three are very brave, to stand on your own, even if you had one another" Ryan sighed "However, there is a time for everything. Overexerting yourselves is of no use. And you are young, in a school for mages, on your first year… You'll have plenty of chances to improve while still having a life. I don't know your parents, but I'm sure they wouldn't be happy their girls are wasting away in a training room" Ryan realized he may have overstepped his boundaries "I'm sorry if I offended you two or your sister. I just think she's not treating you or herself fairly… it's not your fault, after all" Ryan's tone remained serious, as he didn't want to insult their sincerity.
Ryan sounded surprisingly wise for someone whom had been questioning if life had any value not that long ago, so much so that the twins were taken aback by his words. Rose shook her head when Ryan apologized. "No, you're right. We've tried telling Susanna the same thing, but I fear that she cannot help herself from feeling responsible." Prim joined in. "I think she's just convinced herself that we're the only ones whom can find them." Rose nodded. "Maybe if she'd make some friends of her own, she'd be more busy living her life rather than obsessing over getting stronger..." Prim jumped up, an was quick to pull Rose up as well. "You're right, we should try and help her make friends~ Let's go make some plans.""Eh?" A semi-confused Rose was soon dragged away by Prim, whom said her goodbyes. "See you later Ryan~" From a bit away by now, a "Bye!" from Rose followed.
Ryan smiled politely as Rose turned down his apology, as she seemed very understanding. Ryan considered adding more to the conversation, as the twins continued to explain. But firstly, they found new motivation on their own, which was great. And secondly, he had almost exhausted his mental energy on his previous statement. Not having much remaining due to his just passed crisis certainly didn't help. Even though he wanted to help more, he had no words to work with anymore. His smile just brightened upon seeing Prim energetically get in motion, dragging Rose with her. "Later!" He said, raising his hand to emphasise his sendoff.
Once the twins were out of sight, Ryan slumped backwards against the bench with a deep exhale. He was happy, those two can certainly fend off on their own, but he was able to give them some needed reassurance, just like they did with him… Although he certainly needed it more. His head feeling clear, but tired, made him decide to head back to his room. "What was Tidrog's deal with that prank?..." he thought, as he wandered towards some needed rest.
Immediately after Londo's fight against Artemisios
---
Hibiscus Oswald
Don't do anything about it?.... Hibiscus thought, a bit of anger starting to form, His best friend is down and he just says to ignore it?!
Hibiscus respected Londo for his carefree attitude and how nothing seemed to faze him, but this was going a bit too far. After Londo and Artemisios left, Hibiscus walked up to Ryan, and spoke to him, "Uh… Ryan? Is something wrong? You seem kind of… Down?..."
---
Ryan Gamaris
After Londo left, Ryan stood idly, with his eyes lost in thought for a moment. Taking some time to consider what to do next. The forest… that sounded like a good place to think. But should he really think more? No matter, the forest it is. Ryan turned, and took a couple steps, where he stumbled upon Hibiscus. She seemed worried. Ryan stared at her blankly for a moment, before fabricating a smile, and rather absentmindedly answering "Me? Oh… yeaaaaah… I'm just heading to the forest to… yeah."
---
Hibiscus tilted her head questioningly, "Are you sure you're ok Ryan? I can come with you fi you need anything…"
---
Ryan knew Hibiscus was a good willed girl, but at the moment, Ryan thought what he needed some alone time to clear his head off. So with a forced, but polite smile on his weary face yet again, he answered "I am… I just want a quiet walk through the woods, that's all" If Hibiscus would allow him, he'd leave the gym and look for a secluded part of the campus forest.
---
Hibiscus let Ryan go. Maybe Londo really was right. He knew Ryan better than her for sure, that was one thing. Hibiscus watched him go, and turned around in the now-empty gymnasium, and left.
Professor Okamoto flicked her katana, sending the last traces of goblin blood off of it and onto the pavement. The silver blade's shine seemed a bit duller than normal, though that was likely more from the lunar eclipse than from anything else.
"I think you've been out for about five days. Shame this was what you woke up to. Anyway, let's catch up to the others."
After sheathing her katana, Professor Okamoto would gesture for Lavi to lead. With her AMB destroyed, Okamoto wouldn't be able to access its map or communication functions to reach the other students.
Setting: Hal's Electronics
Strange Man
As the communication line with the Academy was still open, the operator on the other end heard the brief discussion of the Mages. "Ah, yes! We'll dispatch additional forces to seal off the area immediately. Please remain there until they arrive."
The man showed no sign of responding to any of the Mages' discussion. His mumbling sobs continued to sound in the background. Most of it was incoherent sounds, but every now and then, things along the lines of "Sorry, Liam." and "My revenge" could be understood.
Setting: Streets of Uruk
As Professor Okamoto and Lavi moved through the darkness, Okamoto came to a stop, turning towards the east for a moment. "Someone is coming this way." With Lavi's limited vision though, she would only notice the person in question as they dropped out of the sky and landed on the pavement nearby.
Chloe Nicchi
"Ah, Professor. We were a bit worried when your signal was lost." The glow from the orb in her hands faded as she dispelled the magic that had kept her airborne for transit.
"My AMB will need replacement, unfortunately, but I am otherwise fine. What brings you this way?"
"The rest of your students were the ones who put a stop to the Gates. I'm to seal the device that was being used so that it can be analyzed later."
"Well then, let's get moving. The sooner that's taken care of, the sooner we can get rid of this crazy weather." As she said that, Professor Okamoto brushed another ember off of her shoulder and continued on towards the electronics store. The new girl joined Okamoto, and they reached their destination after another minute or so.
Setting: Hal's Electronics
Professor Okamoto and Chloe entered the shop and immediately made their way to the basement, since they didn't see anyone on the first floor. "I'll begin the sealing then, Professor." Mostly ignoring the students gathered down there, Chloe stepped past them and began to trace silvery sigils on the surface of the machine with her fingertip.
Meanwhile, Professor Okamoto gave a cursory glance at the man sobbing on the floor before turning towards Almeida. "He's the one responsible for the situation?"
Londo and Hibiscus nodded in response to Almeida telling them to stay and guard the machine, but it didn't really look like it needed guarding, what with the broken man and all that. Londo was more than enough to hold back the man, not to mention Ryan and Almeida was there too. Hell, maybe even Hibiscus could have done it.
After a bit, backup arrived in the form of a teacher and a small girl, the latter of whom ignored them and worked on the device. Okamoto walked up to Almeida, seemingly ignoring Ryan, Londo, and Hibiscus, before asking her about the situation. Hibiscus didn't really have anything to add, but Londo did. Although... He didn't know how to phrase it. He wanted to talk about Yune's involvment, and how Londo might have had a small hand in bad things happening, but maybe it could wait... Although...
As Londo thought about wanting to open his mouth to speak, Hibiscus grabbed his arm and said, "We need to talk." And started dragging him away upstairs.
Londo, who could have easily broken free, stammered out, "Wait, but that guy, and the machine-"
"It's obvious they have it handled, now come on." She said to Londo, and he obliged by following her upstairs and out of the shop. Londo looked back at Ryan to make sure he was standing there. If anything, Londo would want a recap of what was said there from him. He gave Ryan a thumbs up, before following Hibiscus. If anyone followed, Hibiscus would tell them she wanted to speak to Londo alone, and hoped they would be kind enough to listen to her request.
After leaving, Londo walking next to and slightly behind Hibiscus, they both looked at the sky, the results of everything that had happened still clear, or rather red and on fire. Londo winced, the blood moon still echoing a reminder that he should have stopped the word game long before then, and to Hibiscus, she remembered the woman thanking her. So in a way, it seemed to be both their faults this was happening, which is why Hibiscus dragged him out of the electronic store.
Hibiscus was the first to speak, "Why did you say eclipse?..."
Londo shrugged, staring at the moon that was the result of his foolishness, "I dunno. I thought it would sound cool... Untransform" He said, letting his transformation wear off, and the fatigue set in. Now that he was out of combat, and ready to settle down a bit, he realized he felt very tired. Waking up this early was not something he always did. In fact, he never did, as he always liked having a full night's rest. Well, first time for everything.
Hibiscus didn't respond, and just crossed her arms, and Londo looked at her, wondering why she kept her transformation on, "Uhh, Hibby? I think everything's good, you can drop the transformation now." But Hibiscus didn't respond, and Londo noticed a trickle of blood running down her arm, "Whoa, what's up?! Why are you bleeding now!" Londo said, grabbing her arm to see, and when he pulled away, he saw the source of the bleeding was her poking her knife into her arm, "You gotta be careful about that, y'know?" He said, and let go of her arm, which she dropped to her side.
They were now nearing the school once more, and walked in quietly. At this point, Londo was suspicious. Even he could tell something was wrong with Hibiscus, "Sooo..." He said, picking up the pace once he realized Hibiscus was started to hasten hers, "You didn't take me away from the mission just to ask about the eclipse, did you?" But he didn't get an answer.
They walked in silence some more, before reaching the dorm area, and Hibiscus started making her way to her room, not even saying goodbye to Londo. Londo tilted his head in suspicion, and followed her. When they got to Hibiscus's door, she opened it, and paused, then said, "No. I just wanted to ask you about the eclipse. Good night." Then went in and shut the door.
But before the door could close fully, Londo put his foot in it, and forced the door open from his side, overpowering Hibiscus's attempts to close it, "Hey, you got something to say, and I wanna hear it. I wanted to see what all that was about at the electronic store, and you needed to ask me something. I may not be that smart, but even I can tell that isn't everything."
Hibiscus angrily tried to push him back out the door, but failed, "So what?! I thought it wasn't important anymore! That's my fault. Just go away! I'm tired, I'm not thinking clearly!" And with a final shove-
failed to push Londo out the door. Londo held his ground pretty well against the girl who couldn't lift 80 pounds without almost having a stroke. Hibiscus, infuriated she couldn't make Londo leave, spoke instead to the spirit core on his person, "Make him leave!" To which Alice appeared from her spirit core behind Londo and grabbed the back of his shirt, "Stop bothering her, let's just get the fuck to sleep..." But Londo resisted, "W-Wait! Hibiscus!" Londo said, struggling out of Alice's grasp, and gesturing to all of Hibiscus, "What is this? You told people you hate transforming, so why haven't you untransformed yet?" Alice, who had been trying to grab at Londo, suddenly stopped, and stepped back, staring at the two. She hadn't expected Londo to be so observant, but he was right, why hadn't Hibiscus gone back?
Hibiscus glared angrily at Londo, who was unfazed. He had experience with girls' angry glares too many times this past week. Hibiscus tried pushing him out again, "I told you. I don't care. I just want you out!"
Londo gently held her back by her shoulders, trying to get her to stop thrashing out, "Then untransform! Something's up, and you not transforming back is weird."
Hibiscus stepped away from Londo, and turned away, her shoulders shaking with anger, "I-I don't want to... I already told you-" But then a small fairy appearing caused Hibiscus to cut off her sentence, "Hibbyyyyyy. Just do it, I wanna sleeeeep!" Lyka moaned annoyingly.
Hibiscus huffed a sigh, still turned away from the 3. It took a bit of time of silence, but Hibiscus finally muttered, "U-Untransform..." and her body flashed, before returning to normal, but with Hibiscus now shaking. But this time it was not anger. It was something else.
Sniffles came from Hibiscus, and Londo walked up to her to see what was wrong, but she turned around, and this time was crying.
"Oooo. That's bad." Lyka said, flying over to Alice, "Let's head back to your room while Londo deals with this, I'll fill ya in." And while Alice and Lyka left, shutting the door behind them, Hibiscus broke down and fell to the ground, sobbing, "I-I-It's all my fault! Mine! I did this!" And Londo suddenly felt bewildered, "What?! What do you mean your fault?! You didn't do anything!" He said, trying to get her off the floor and stand up. Hibiscus obliged, but she body was shaking, and was needing to be supported by Londo, as they made their way over to the bed, and he sat her down on it, sitting next to her and patting her back, "H-How could an entire invasion be your fault anyways?" Londo stammered out, not liking that this wasn't the first time this week he made a girl cry.
Hibiscus shook her head, "Y-You don't u-understand... It IS my f-f-fault!" She said, and began slowly relaying the story of her adventure in the library, and how wanting a job there led to her accidentally unlocking a seal...
...
Londo listened and stared in silence. Well, now it made sense why the woman from the portal thanked Hibiscus, and why she asked about the eclipse. But then again... "That's still not your fault! You had no way of knowing that the book would do that. Besides, I'm the one who caused the eclipse! If anything, I'M to blame!"
Hibiscus hiccuped, the crying continuing to wear her out, "B-But I should have done more to s-stop it!"
Londo shook his hand, his hand sort of getting sore from patting Hibiscus's back for the past hour, "You told the headmaster about it, you did everything you could." But his reply fell on deaf ears, as Hibiscus didn't respond, and instead breathed slowly, her body trying to gasp in more air every once in a while from crying too much. She had fallen asleep. Guess crying took more out of her than Londo thought.
Londo shrugged, putting her into her bed, and covering her with the blankets, yawning. Alice might have fallen asleep already, with Lyka with her, so Londo figured he could pass out in the other bed, which seemed unused. Falling onto the covers of the other bed, Londo closed his eyes and slept, the only sounds in the room being breathing and the occasional gasps to intake more air for Hibiscus.
Almeida was already starting to fantasize about drinking coffee when Ryan walked in, offering to stay on guard as well. Although she considered making him an errand boy in getting her the desired drink, she figured she'd be nicer than that. "Sure, thanks." Considering how she had nothing to do, she was quick to pick up on what little coherent sounds the captured guy was making and tried to tie it to what she recalled having heard him say earlier.
Some unknown kid walked in not all that long afterwards, but thanks to her being with Okamoto, Almeida didn't try to whack her to the other side of the basement when she started fiddling with the machinery. Almeida shrugged with regards to Okamoto's question. "He's been the one fiddling with these machines, but I doubt he's the one that orchestrated this. He's been shouting something about destroying some 'bastards' and was sobbing about being sorry for failing to avenge someone called Liam not too long ago. It might be a bit of a stretch, but it sounds like he's just been used by someone with the allure of a revenge plot against someone."
She then sighed. "Am I safe to assume we're done here? I've rarely looked forward to a cup of coffee and a morning shower more than right now."
Okamoto waved gently towards the staircase as Hibiscus pulled Londo away, indicating that they were free to go while she listened to Almeida's report.
"No, you might be on to something. While not impossible, it seems unlikely that one lunatic in a basement could be the first in 200 years to overcome Uruk's defenses."
Okamoto nodded along as Almeida mentioned coffee. A spot of coffee certainly sounded nice, though hers would need to wait until the situation was cleaned up. "Mm, feel free to head on back. If you catch up to the others, inform them that there will be no class this morning."
Attempting an interrogation here would be relatively pointless, so after borrowing a pair of handcuffs from Chloe and cuffing the man, Okamoto settled for leaning back against the wall while she waited for the younger Mage to finish the sealing of the machine. A few minutes later, the task was complete. Seizing the man by the back of his collar, Okamoto hoisted him into the air, and with that, they were ready to depart. The two mages and their human baggage took to the air as they traveled back towards the Academy, a sight visible to anyone outside who happened to look up at the right time.
A few minutes after Hibiscus and Londo (and presumably Almeida, Lavi, Ryan, and Mislyte) departed from the store, they could feel an odd sort of tension in the air as if a storm was brewing. Something within them was being tugged, ever so slightly, towards the Academy. More specifically, towards the tallest spire of the Academy, where a silvery light seemed to be gathering. Another moment later, the light seemed to be done gathering, as it burst outward in a sphere of magical energy that washed over everything they could see, paying no need to obstacles as it passed through walls and the Mages themselves.
Light is often portrayed as an element of purity, of holiness, of warmth, and all other things "good". But despite the brilliance of the silvery energy as it streaked through the air, dispelling the falling embers and crimson moon and fully revitalizing the Mages' energies, something felt off about the power. This did not contain the warmth of sunlight, or the warmth of a hearth, or even of a single candle holding the night at bay. It was a harsh, cold light that seemed more like it was trying to "correct" the world than "heal" it.
That said, after the light had passed, the world seemed to be at peace once more. Embers no longer fell like hail from the skies, and the moon had returned to its usual glow. And though none of the others were around to witness it, as they had all abandoned him, Rainer's body could be seen manifesting around his soul back on Richmond Avenue. The calamity of the night seemed to be no more than a memory now…
Mission Rewards
Londo: 3 Character Points (CP)
Almeida: 3 Character Points (CP)
Ryan: 3 Character Points (CP)
Hibiscus: 3 Character Points (CP)
Mislyte: 3 Character Points (CP)
Lavi: 1 Character Point (CP)
Rainer: 1 Character Point (CP)
(Start of Turn: +5 
