[System]
"Don't sweat the small stuff"

Gender: Female

Age: 19

Appearance: Cassandra stands at about a stern five-foot-seven with a slender build. Not the tallest but what can she do, as for her style, it can best be described as down home. She wears what she feels is comfortable, and the colors she chooses are somewhat all over the place. Typically she can be seen wearing a blue crop top denim vest and a white shirt with the sleeves hanging on her arms. She wears ripped black skinny jeans and red high top sneakers, as for accessories, she wears a choker accompanied with a necklace and two black bracelets.

Cassandra has long brown hair and keeps it in a messy ponytail further adding to her down homey look. Her most notable feature is the full sleeve tattoo on her left arm which glows when she casts spells. It's not the greatest style, but it's her's

Personality:
{Witty}{Affable}{easygoing}

For the most part, Cassandra is easy to get along with. Growing up in the rural parts of the country, she brings that small town hospitality rural areas are known for......well most areas. Her motto is "you take care of me and I'll take care of you." She is the big sister to those who befriend her just like the one they never had. What's that, they're older? Tough, she is the big sister anyway, being the eldest of two children, has, she can't help it. She will be a shoulder to cry on, offer advice, and tease them when she feels they need it.

Her wit is something to be admired as it goes hand in hand with er sarcasm. It is something saved for people she doesn't care for, people she cares for, people she doesn't know, pretty much everyone. The meaner the remark, the more the person she's directing it to will know how she feels about them. But not to worry it's very hard to get on her bad side.

She is very easy to talk to and when she's not having a bad day,very easy to approach and her eye rolling dry sense of humor comes standard, dad jokes non negotiable. Beyond her more positive traits, she suffers from insecurities brought on by her powers. She is afraid of hurting someone she cares about or even people in general due to her lack of control over it. Having powers bestowed on anyone from a plane she never knew existed will do that to anyone. She gets frustrated when she can't control it and hates when people give attention to it. Expect her to snap and quickly apologize when she calms down.

 History:
{Highschool graduate}{loving family}{runaway}{drummer}

Cassandra was born in a small town in the Midwest. Her childhood was normal at best. She went to school, got good grades, and the latter. Her parents made a decent living being able to put food on the table and a roof over her head, get her into extracurricular activities and everything that could keep a kid out of trouble. It was not easy to get into trouble living in a small town where everyone knew everyone especiallywhen her father was the fire chief. She had everything a girl could need and then some....well almost everything. Being an only child was not all it was cracked up to be. All that would change in the the spring a week after her thirteenth birthday when she met her younger brother. It was the best late birthday gift she could ask for.

As time went on, she would spend the remainder of her time in the small town she grew up in now with her little brother at her side. She entered high school during the fall where she would find her love for the drums, banging on things that always seemed to interest her. When summer hit, she graduated from highschool and began to prepare for college. Unfortunately, college was out of the question as misfortune would strike.

about a month ago, she began to hear voices. At first they were quiet and she would hear the occasional whisper when she passed by someone. As days turned into weeks, the whispers began to grow into full on voices and got worse as time went on. she could not even be in crowds without hearing talking that wasn't her own and eventully could not be outside without having headphones on and blasting loud music to keep from hearing the whispers.

she could not for the life of her figure out what was happening to her and would finally hit a breaking point when misfortune would strike again. It would strike in the form of what she could only describe as these insanely bizarre coincidences. The breaking point came in the form of an illusion she manifested in a public restroom that took the form of a soap dispenser. She could not believe what had happened and thought she was going insane.

All of this put a damper on her psyche and she would barely leave the house for fear of something else happening. Her family even began to take notice and wanted to get her help and tried to send her to a mental institution. Before they could, she received a package with a postcard in the mail promising help, and rather than spend however long they planned to keep her, she would take her chances with the mysterious offer. She packed what she could carry, said goodbye to her brother, and fled under the dark of night.

Equipment:

-an extra pair of clothes
-A picture of her family
-headphone

Magic:
Cassandra's magic is more on the mental aspect of things. In most aspects, she would be classified as a psychic as her magic has to do with mental forces. She can use a wide variety of telepathic abilities from telepathic to illusions and more. At the moment, the most she can do is read minds and create illusions of small objects.

Her magic is not under her complete control and can tend to get a bit out of hand when in use. reading people's thoughts all the time would wear on anyone's nerves. Not being able to turn it off is even worse, that being said, her telepathy only works on people a few feet away from her. She can't get any farther than that. Reading minds sounds fun in theory, but when you can't turn it off, well it tends to, in layman's terms....suck. She can only read the minds of conscious beings and non mindless entities such as robots, the undead, and the like. Her illusions are limited to small objects

[User] {DELETED}

[Assistant]
Cassandra had finally reached the area where the people she could only hope were not deranged psychopaths who lured people to this run-down manor to meet their demise. Much to her surprise, she stood corrected about her assumption when one introduced herself as Alora, but the introduction was cut short as the woman pointed towards the grass and asked her to get off of it.

Oh sorry, wasn't even paying attention, She quickly stepped onto the gravel driveway while not forgetting to unintentionally crush a few blades underneath her foot. Hoping she wouldn't notice the involuntary clumsy disregard for the other blades of grass, Cassandra turned her attention toward the woman again

She had to admit as far as first impressions went, she was a bit intimidated by Alora. She seemed to have a cold and aggressive demeanor about her. Her choice of clothing screamed rebel and her hairstyle was interesting, to say the least. The grass thing was a little strange, but if any of them were suffering from the same thing she was, strange was something to be expected.

This was someone her father would hit the roof if he knew Cassandra was even remotely associated with, not that she was one to just write this girl off without a chance. Cassandra could not help but notice the woman before her was gazing at her. Uh, Name's Cassandra or cassie, whichever one you prefer, she stuck her hand in the air as a nervous quick gesture of greeting. Yeah, he said he had answers to what's been going on, but after seeing this dump, I'm kind of wondering if we've been lured here to be murdered. She look over the manor one more time before looking back to the rest of the group that had arrived.

One had introduced himself as Leon. He looked familiar, but for the life of her, she could not put her finger on where she had seen him, television maybe? The other one who called himself Elio, well.....looked a little rough around the edges.

[User]
The Return of Magic:Act 1 - An Intro
Scene three- The house beckons

"Sorry, I didn't mean to actually damage nature. In any case, I did receive the same letter as you described. And my name's Leon. It's a pleasure."

"Leon," Alora thought to herself, "that is not the name I thought I would hear." Alora truthfully did not expect to hear any name in particular, she however expected to get one that helped her figure out who he was. She gave the mystery man a simple nod in acknowledgement.

"I'm Elio. Just Lio is fine, though."

"Lio, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"Uh, Name's Cassandra or cassie, whichever one you prefer. Yeah, he said he had answers to what's been going on, but after seeing this dump, I'm kind of wondering if we've been lured here to be murdered"

Alora let out a laugh at Cassie's response. "Well, if they did want to murder us they chose an amazing place to do it," Alora paused as she took in the visage of the house, "the internet would love a murder mystery set in such a place." Alora looked over the group again person by person. "Besides, if someone did want to kill us it wouldn't make sense for them to bring us all together as I assume you all ha-" Alora paused as she realized the words he was about to say aloud to this group of strangers. "Oh, this is insane. This is the moment where I will realize just how crazy I am. Like who actually believes in magic?" As she became trapped in her thoughts her breathing once again became shallow and fast paced. Alora would not let herself be trapped in these thoughts for long, and she broke back to the present as she gulped in a deep breath and exhaled equally hard. Her eyes darted to the ground and shifted for a second until she saw a patch of nearly dead dandelions at her feet.

"I assume you all have some form of magic," Alora said as she squatted down and placed her hand on the ground next to the dandelions. She took in a deep breath before she conjured forth her magic. In an instant the dandelions became more lifelike in both color and appearance. In an instant, the dandelion was brought to a bloom as the yellow flower erupted forth. "I can control plants, and nature, I guess? I can also feel what the plants feel hence why… your footsteps hurt." As Alora pulled her magic back she looked up from the ground and towards the group. "A month ago I developed it. Thought I was going crazy at first. One minute the world made more sense, you know? The next minute I can feel the gust of wind on each blade of grass and it's-" Alora exhaled as she focused her breathing once again, "so exhausting."

"What about you all? What fun parlor tricks brought you here?"

Behind her the house groaned as a strong wind blasted across it's broken visage. The wind would flow down and crash across the group bringing an icy chill with it. The group would feel the wind ebb and flow across the group reminding them that the seasons marched forward regardless of their new found discoveries. Something would feel off about this wind, and each remember of the group would feel an unnatural chill fall down their spine.

[Assistant]
Elio felt the burn in his body. He considered letting it out, letting it breathe. It would be easy, effortless even. All he had to was let it flow, follow the channels, and project it out of his open palms... But he quickly crushed his desires into his fist. It had taken him some time to arrive at this mansion, and for a good portion of that, he had been walking. With nothing better to do, he had practised his new 'ability'. He wanted to know what it was, how it worked. He wanted to control it, so that he wouldn't burn anymore of his belongings. His progress was... disappointing.

The chief issue was its frustrating inconsistency. Sometimes, things would go fine. He would think of a form for it, and it would come out more less like he wanted it too. As for every other time, well. Elio had mostly been travelling in the wilderness with no one around, and that had proven to be a wise decision. His parents' book had helped, or maybe it hadn't. Sometimes, before he released the energy, he could feel whether it would be good or bad for him. He still didn't know how it would end up, and it didn't work all the time, but sometimes he would have a bad feeling, and every time he released his magic with that bad feeling, bad things happened. A pretty clear and obvious association, but he couldn't help but be frustrated at the vagueness of it all. How much of it was because of the book, and how much of it was his own intuition?

"Do you think this is the time for that?" Elio asked, turning his head to scan the surroundings. "It feels a bit... ominous around here."
Ominous, that was a good word for it. Whether it was the chill wind blowing in, or the feeling of being watched from the windows, something felt off. He had a pretty good instinct about these kinds of things, but nothing looked out of place. Was it just him being nervous from meeting with strangers? Was it because his nerves had been worn down by the journey? Or could it have been some magical sense he had been newly awoken to?

Whatever it was, he would probably only find out after it happened. That was how things usually ended up for Elio.

[User]
Alora let out a laugh at Cassie's response. "Well, if they did want to murder us they chose an amazing place to do it," Alora paused as she took in the visage of the house, "the internet would love a murder mystery set in such a place." Alora looked over the group again person by person. "Besides, if someone did want to kill us it wouldn't make sense for them to bring us all together as I assume you all ha-"

The thought of being murdered and ending up as a footnote in someone's internet murder mystery was not exactly an appealing idea. Of course she knew Alora was joking......hopefully. "yeeaah, I'd rather not end up on the nine o clock news or the internet." Thoughts of being murdered aside, she had to reluctantly agree. If there was ever a perfect place to kill a group of people, this would be it. Moving on from the thought of her possible imminent demise, Cassandra Turned her attention to Alora who had mentioned something about the reason they were all here before seemingly being cut short before restarting her sentence.

Showing the demonstration of her control over plants, she watched in awe as this girl who she met not two moments ago bring a dead flower back to life. "Y-you just." She had no words for what she had just seen, and did she mention something about magic? There was no way that's what was happening to her "d-did you say magic? There's no way that's what's going on." Is that the reason she had been hearing voices?

To say she was shocked was an understatement, but before she could get lost in her thoughts, Alora had asked about their abilities. "Uh......I don't know about magic, but I've....been hearing voices....if that counts, I guess I can make fake images of stuff too." To hear it out loud was crazy, hearing voices, making images, who wouldn't write her off as a lunatic?


[System]
Gender: Male
Age: 31 years old
Rank: thegn (nobleman)

Alfed has long dark blond hair and a full beard which he secretly always took pride in. He has a big barrel chest and large arms that are used to always carrying a massive war hammer he called "Beadu." He has a menacing look in his eyes that make people uncomfortable. He also has a huge scar on his face and is missing two fingers on his left hand.

Personality: Ever since he was young Alfred was enamored by stories of great warriors and of epic battles. Although, when the reality of war came upon him it changed him. He became ruthless, sadistic, cruel, and only really finding satisfaction from the thrill of violence. Having such a disposition on life makes for a great warrior but also for a terrible thegn. He doesn't care much what others think of him as long as he continues to have the ear and respect of his Lord Banweald.

History: Alfred served as a high-ranking military officer in Coenwulf's army and was part of some major battles that helped propelled the King to power. However during one significant battle of the war he was captured by the enemy and was tortured for six months. This increased his hated for his enemies and almost drove him mad. During this haunting experience he lost two fingers on his left hand and was left with a huge scar on his face. In the end he was rescued by a small unit of Lord Banweald's men, which is why his loyalty to the Lord runs so deep. Despite his sever injuries he immediate rejoined the campaign. It was since this time when reports of his savage demeanor on and off the battlefield started to emerge.

After the war, Alfred was rewarded with enough coin to be considered a thegn. He was also given the responsibility as Commander over the Cirencester militia and its armory. Despite all this he feels that a life lived apart from war is a stale and boring one. So to make due, he utilizes everything at his disposal to find ways to make things "interesting" and "lively".

Loyalties: Coenwulf the King of Mercia

[User]
Garod was afraid something like this would happen. Despite the fact that he and Bado had decided that their personas were from Cornwall, he had only been there once or twice and, even then, never really took the time to learn much about the climate there. He wasn't sure if Bado knew much about the kingdom either. However, the Judge was still waiting upon his response, and it would seem strange for him to decline the offer, much as it screamed "trap".

"I would be honored, Justicar. Would you mind terribly if I brought along my companion as well? He is much more open to conversation than I."

[Assistant]
As rain begins to fall over the town, Beornraed meets his commander in front of the manor. He was holding a piece of parchment with a crimson staurogram as a header. "We've received word from the monastery; the new Justiciar wants to make your acquaintance. Probably another showy layabout, like the rest of his lot." he scoffed, crumpling the missive in his hands.

---

Mildemaer barreled through the heavy wooden door shoulder-first, and held it open so Sibley could get through with her. She gave her now blonde friend a puzzled look. "Did something happen?" she asked, not really sure what to think. She set the pup down on the floor and he scurried into the next room, just to be carried back in by a bearded Welshman.
"I'm not telling you again, Cyn, the whelps have to stay in the barn. They shouldn't spend so much time away from their mothers..." his thoughts trailed off as he spied the unexpected guest in his doorway. "Seeking refuge, daughter of Þunor?" he asked simply.

---

Unicycle
His smile widened, eyes yet dark. "Certainly." Alexius remounted his horse and looked down at Garod, once more sullen and serious. "I'm expected at Celnaer Manor. You'll come to the monastery at dusk. Farewell."
With that the judge started back down the road, he on his horse and Wilmot walking faithfully beside him. She turned around once to wave at Garod, smiling pleasantly, before carrying on with her master.

[User]
Kjalr awoke to a small beam of sunlight streaming from somewhere above his head and water dripping onto his leg monotonously. He tried to sit up slowly but suddenly felt like a wave rushed over him. Groaning, he laid his head back down and waited for the room to stop spinning. He tried to recollect the events of the past ... however many days it had been. He remembered sailing with his crew of ten, in a small fleet of 7 other ships. They landed on the beach, only to be greeted by the Fyrd of the shire they were raiding, gathered and prepared. The battle went ill, and the last thing Kjalr remembered was being the last man on the battlefield and taking a sword pommel to the face.

 He tried sitting up again, this time with more success. He found himself in a small dungeon cell, laying on a threadbare, straw-packed cot. There was a bucket in the corner and a tray of stale bread and rotten beef by the bars of the cell. Mustering his strength, Kjalr stood and made his way to the bars, which he used to keep himself standing.

 Beyond the bars was a dim hallway, lit by two torches. On either side of the hall was another cell. On the wall between his cell and the one on the right was a table, laden with his weapons and armor. His sword, Smarhyrr, was just barely out of reach.

 "Hello!?" he called to the darkness. He could only hope for a response now.

[Assistant]
Garod gave his own small wave at Wilmot, before turning away and heading back down the road. Once he was sure the judge and his servant were out of earshot, he muttered the word "damnation" to himself. Of course, he just had to go talking to someone in a position of power when Bado wasn't around. That was a surefire way to get himself killed, or worse, dragged into something like dinner with said person of power. He'd just have to hope Bado knew more about Cornwall than he, else both of their heads would roll.

He was wondering if it would just be easier to skip town... But no, they had only just got here, it was too late to go running off. So, until it was time to head to the monastery, he would wait in his room at the inn, trying to concoct some plan...

[User] There it was. That much-feared discovery of her heritage had finally come. It was inevitable, perhaps. When one has been trading in countless towns in the course of a year, such a thing was bound to happen at least once. Or twice. To be honest, she has been chased out of more villages than she'd like to admit. Sigrid hung her head low, awaiting the inevitable condemnation and later expulsion. For now, she just wanted out of the rain. "Ay, refuge would me much appreciated," she said, quiet and nervous.

[Assistant]
Khan
A figure crossed in front of the far cell and dipped into the dark passageway. As she passed the torches, it became clear that this was a woman in a hooded cloak, with her face covered. She grasped one of the iron bars of Kjalr's cell and pulled back her hood; she was a blond woman with sharp features, wearing a garnet circlet. She stared down at the viking with piercing green eyes.
"If you can't stay quiet yourself, the guards will make sure you're quiet forever." She darted her gaze to either side, and posed a question to Kjalr when she seemed satisfied. "What god will rescue you from this place, Norseman?"

---

Winoc nodded. "You've found refuge, but you'd best thank the gods for your fortune. Many here would see you hang from a tree." He went to a chest beside the doorway and retrieved two large quilts, handing one to Sigrid. "What's your name, fréodohtor?"
Mildemaer was beside herself in confusion about the whole situation. Quite defeated, closed the door behind Sibley -- if that was her real name -- and leaned against the wall, sinking down until she was sitting on the floor.

[User] "Sigrid," she said, almost at a whisper. "That is my name. Sigrid Geirdóttir. I hail from Jutland." Was there sympathy in the old man's eyes? He had never seen her in her entire life, that she could be sure enough of. Yet, he seemed to know her mind, as well as her troubles. With ginger hands, she accepted the quilt, clutching both it and her damp dress close. Something compelled her to keep talking. "My father was here before. He was at Iona, the cross temp- the cathedral. Are you a man of the cross?"

[Assistant]
"Your father was a plunderer of Iona?" Mildemaer interjected as she took the second quilt from Winoc, eyes wide with surprise. The rain pelted against the wooden walls of the estate as Winoc locked the door.
"The raid at Lindisfarne was the first anyone heard of the Norsemen ransacking cathedrals. That was during Offa's time." Winoc said. He took a moment to mull over Sigrid's question. "There's much that you don't know about this land, daughter of Þunor; would a man of the cross open his home to you?"

[User]
Alfred loves the rain. He looks up to the sky and lets the drops of rain fall on his face. It's refreshing, cool, and it bring him back to simpler days of when he was younger. Whenever it would rain back then, he would run out and dance in it until his mother called him back into the house.

He hadn't enjoyed the moment for too long when be sees Beornraed coming towards him. Alfred thinks that's all the relaxation he'll have to himself. It is reassuring though that those moments no matter how brief are his and no one can take them away from him. He reads and scoffs at the letter that his second gives to him. "The new Justiciar wants to see me. There seems to be a lot of summoning happening today. It seems as though more important things are always superseded by unimportant ones. But I'll go see this Justicar.," said Alfred.

[Assistant]
Sigrid shook her head. That seemed to be the response the old man wanted. "Perhaps not," she said, wrapping the warm blanket around herself after squeezing the water from her hair. "It's very kind of you to lend your home to me." A magnificent home it was, too, if a little bare. Unlike the manor houses she was privileged enough to see the inside of, the inside was not as opulent as the outside. No jeweled candle-holders hung from the ceiling, and the furniture was rough and built purely for function. Luxuries that Angle lords would keep for themselves, like marble and glass, are completely omitted.

Small minutes later, she was shivering on one of the chairs, occasionally contributing a sneeze to the silence. "I feel like I'm intruding on your hospitality," she said, putting a hand up to her own forehead. Her hands felt like ice, as did the very air around her. "Is there anything I could do to make me feel more deserving of it?"

[User] "It was my Urdr, my fate, to be trapped behind these bars. I go only where fate takes me and fate shall provide my escape soon enough." Kjalr's eyes flitted between his sword and her circlet. "I am Kjalr Svensson of Skaggerak. Who are you Noblewoman?"

[Assistant]
A gaunt man in dark robes strode through the militia training field on his horse as the rain went from a gentle shower to a steady downpour. He seemed unbothered by the rain, while the slave behind him tightened her cowl. He stopped his horse in front of the commander and his second.
"Alfred, I presume?" he said, more a statement than a query. He glanced briefly back at the militia men before returning his gaze down to the commander. "Your men seem battle ready."

---

Winoc brought his guest a small bowl of soup; a watery concoction of cabbage, potatoes, and hunks of pork. Perhaps not the most appetizing, but certainly warm and filling. "In time, Sigrid, in time. You're not the first of your people to find yourself here." he said, taking a seat nearby. Mildemaer seemed to have disappeared elsewhere into the home. "For now I'd just like to know what brought you to this land."

---

Khan
The woman shook her head at his answer. "Did passively following fate lead you to the abbey in Gloucestershire? Did you learn to swing your sword through iron and flesh as if calmly floating down a stream? Wyrd nurtures no man, Kjalr of Skaggerak; you must conquer it and rip your destiny from it's jaws." She withdrew a simplistic bronze charm from the sleeve of her cloak and tossed it at his feet. "My name is Hwithryth. I'm the lady of this land, and the only person you can trust within these walls."

[User]
Kjalr bent to pick up the charm, his eyes widening in surprise as he held it in his palm.

 "This is the rune Tyr. This was made in my homeland. How came you by this, Briton?" He fingered the etched bronze and locked eyes with the stranger. This was the closest he had come to home in many months. Maybe even a year? He could not remember. It made him long for his family. Suddenly everything was clear to him. "You said I could trust you, right? Can you get me out of here? Please, I'd be indebted."

[Assistant]
The rain had formed big droplets that were coming down hard and fast. Puddles were quickly starting to form all around. The day's downpour was going to get everything wet and muddy. Alfred was in the middle of talking to Beornraed when the man on the horse strolled over and addressed him.

This clearly must be the man behind the parchment he had just received. This is the town's new Justiciar. Alexius did not seem anything that Alfred thought he would look like. The Justiciar had a harshness evident from the lines on his face. In his eyes one could see that he had a mission and was not going to stop until it was completed. Alfred appreciated men that lived for one purpose.

Alfred responded to Alexius, "I am indeed Lord Alfred, Commander over the Cirencester militia and her armory." "The town's militia is indeed ready for battle, should the need ever arise." "It is a pleasure to meet you Justiciar Alexius. Shall we head into my barracks so that we might get to know each other better."


[System]
Nicknames/Aliases: Shade

 Age: 21

 Gender: Male

 Rune/Location
- Back of neck

Rune Powers: Tiwaz

 Description: Volkir stands about 5'6' and weighs about 170 lbs, he has long ebony hair that drapes over his shoulders. He is usually spotted wearing his black t- shirt with a red dragon on it and his black slim fit jeans. Volkir always has his hair in his face and slouches as he walks. Instead of sitting he's found crouched in chairs or couches. There is a darkness around his lifeless, grey eyes from lack of sleep.
 His skin is as pale of a ghost, and he tends to keep a blank expression on his face. There is always a black katana strapped to his back and a dagger with a chain to his hip, along with long sharpened nails for ripping and tearing at his foes. When he gets angered, his eyes not only widen, but they blacken as and evil snake like grin emerges on his face.

Personality:
"Your brain is the deadliest weapon." Volkir uses his knowledge to his advantage, he is one to study the situation, plans a million different, considers the outcomes, and attacks. Some would say his moves are bold and risky, well that's because he's already three steps ahead the competition. He lacks social skills but not because he's shy, he just likes solitude and cake. He also suffers from a split personality disorder, when he gets pissed, run. In this state he intends death, even if he has to act like a animal to eliminate his foes. Volkir also rarely sleeps, he needs to consume sugar in every meal to stay awake, that's why every meal is sweets for him.

 Skills: His range and sneak is high. He had also been trained in the Japanese art of swordplay, even his hand to hand style is very dangerous. With how is brain in, his deduction skill almost seems like a power. He's trained himself with the power he had been gifted with. He can create huge, powerful gusts and wind funnels that can easily hurt his foes by slinging them.

 Weaknesses: Lack of sweets will cause him to feint, and the use of too much energy ( Usually after a good battle, or personality switch.)

 Brief History: Volkir grew up as a Dark child. He had been used to life in the forest, having grown up in it until he murdered his parents at the age of sixteen. That's when he discovered his powers, Volkir had been mentally and physically abused by his parents, thus making him the way he is. He was able to pass the murder off as suicides, which led him to spending the next few years in an Orphanage until he turned eighteen. Hes been living on his own ever since.

Other: N/A Single i guess

[User]
"I have to agree with you, there, Amity. Here's hoping things will be a bit less...well, hectic in the future." Dawn tipped her coffee back, then gave a contented sigh. All the caffeine had begun to kick in, the pleasant buzz of energy running through her veins.

"And, ah, that would depend on how large your sword is, I would say." A sword was an interesting choice- in a world where wolves the size of bears dominated the outskirts of cities, it seemed preferable to keep a hefty distance between their maws and yourself. However, seeing that Amity's rune allowed her to send a door flying by complete accident, it was likely that she would fare far better than the average person. A bit bizarre to think about, but the whole situation had always been rather surreal to begin with.

In spite of the disappearance of two runes, Isa wasted no time in going over the teams in their absence. Three groups, three people in each. Dawn glanced over at Amity once the senior rune had finished, offering a little smile. "It looks like we'll be working together, then."

The last teammate of theirs, she recalled, was the man who had introduced himself as "Makorai". And "All-Daddy", but Makorai was the more preferable of the two names. Finishing up her coffee, Dawn tossed the empty cup into a trash bin and turned back towards Isa. She had no real questions- aside from how close the team members would have to be in order to trigger the "boost", which could easily be worked out during training- so she did nothing for the moment but listen, and wait.

@Kuroakuma

---

Miss Silvarae was almost completely unresponsive- she gave a brief nod after being asked to go back, but the blank, "deer-in-the-headlights" look remained. Madison's face dropped, and a soft "oh dear" escaped him before he released his grip on her shoulder. Her file had mentioned something like this; a temporary shut down of her very self. It was...worrying, to say the least. Really, Madison thought that a therapist should have been assigned to her before she was actually sent into well and proper combat, but he still wasn't high enough in authority to do such a thing. Lips pursed, Madison stepped around to face her, and was about to lead her back to the meeting room when faint shouting caught his attention.

Maeve Byrne. Bearer of the Sowlio rune, if memory served. Madison gave her a warm, albeit somewhat faint smile, seeing as how the woman was acting like she expected for him to start screaming like some kind of drill sergeant. "Don't worry, Miss Byrne, neither of you are in trouble for this. Since you're still getting used to...well, everything, I see no problem in letting you go with just a warning for now. Just keep in mind that the others will likely be less lenient." After a moment of thought, he gently added, "And it's 'sir', not 'ma'am', by the way."

With a little sigh, Madison turned back to Silvarae, taking in the dull expression on her face. "It'll take a few minutes, but she should be alright soon. Can I trust you to keep an eye on you until then, Miss Byrne?"

He paused. His brow creased, and he glanced over at Maeve. "Actually," he said, "this might sound a bit...well, odd, but would you mind putting your hand on her shoulder for just a moment? I believe that physical contact from another rune on her team might be able to bring her out of it, but it's just a theory. You don't have to do it, of course, but I would greatly appreciate it."

It really was a strange hypothesis, but Madison saw no harm in giving it a go.

@Daemanis

[Assistant]
"You said she was a rune Tiwaz. You propagated the aforementioned bullshit. Any backtracking now defeats the object of learning better judgement in the future." Oren responded, with a wave of her gloved hand and not a small hint of condescension.

"Though do consider you suggestion read. Unfortunately as you come to know me better you will discover that I'm just as rude even when the rest of my team aren't making a mockery of the whole operation. So anyone who wants to knife me is welcome to do so now, whilst they have the advantage. At least that gets it out of the way.

Failing that, and unless anyone else has a question, you're all scheduled downstairs at the training hall to begin exercises working in your Aett. Turn right upon leaving the room, down two fights of steps and at the end of the hall. If you lack appropriate clothing you'll certainly find it down there. I would highly suggest taking advantage of the opportunity to its fullest extent. Something I am going to be denied apparently. But such is life."

Oren shrugged her shoulders before moving to leave, having said her piece and having remarkably little inclination to remain around the room for reasons of socialising. If anything the faster she could leave that dumpster fire behind the better. The whole thing was a disaster and her own team hadn't even remained around long enough to see out the first meeting, so she already found herself discounting the use of the Aett power in her mind.

At least if you came at something with no expectations, you could not be disappointed.
Well, in theory. She'd come to the meeting with no expectations.
And yet somehow still felt let down.
Weird.

Oren made her way into the site's training facility. As what she had had planned was not really working out, she turned her attention to some more general tasks, and pulled a laptop from her locker and placed herself onto one of the side benches in order to tap on the keys. In the run-up to the meeting she'd been working on a presentation on the main world eater species. Their physiology, behaviour, abilities, weaknesses. It was a reasonably comprehensive guide. The sort of thing that should be invaluable. Hopefully, the woman mused, it was not going to be lost on the....current group.

[User]
"Oh. Uh. Thank you, Ma- Sir. Sorry. Sir," Maeve said, knowing full and well that she ought to be more concerned with Silavrae's apparent absence seizure than this individual's penis.

Which she was, she reminded herself as she snuck side-eyed glance toward Madison's crotch. She blinked. Back to the issue at hand.

"Um, I don't know if she, uh- I'm not really good with medical stuff and all that kind of, you know-"

Maeve tilted her head to one side at the man's request, and then took a small step back from Silvarae, still facing the woman. The ginger's eyes followed the length of her fellow Rune's body, and she shook her head. The girl was stock still, evidently frozen like the shitty cash register at work. That old piece of junk always seemed to work once someone smacked the side of it, but Maeve quickly pushed the solution from her head.

Why a touch from another Rune could fix the problem, Maeve could not guess.

But then again, she had started shooting fire out of her hands a few months ago, and had been essentially kidnapped by a group of rich weirdos. Literally nothing about any of this made sense.

"I can try?" she offered, the last word bending upwards in pitch with hesitance. Even when nothing made sense, Maeve liked to have a vague idea of where she stood. And this was way off from that.

She extended a calloused hand toward the womans's shoulder, a vague concern that Silvarae may shatter upon contact floating in the back of her mind. "Um, Blondie- Er. Zero?"

[Assistant]
Silvarae didn't hear when Maeve spoke to her such was the numbness that was within her mind, she would be staring straight ahead still yet seeing nothing, as if the world around her had taken on an air of total unimportance. She would show no reaction to the words spoken to her, however when Maeves' hand graced her shoulder even with the slightest of touches there would be an immediate reaction. The rune on her hand, Algiz, would flash for only the briefest of moments. If someone had been watching her intently when this happened they would be able to note that the rune seemed to flash with the color of flames, but so fast was it gone that it could be forgiven if it had been imagined.
Silvarae would shake her head looking at once back to the cool, calm, and collected woman that she had portrayed before her panic attack, of sorts. She would turn to look at the hand resting on her shoulder before following the arm up to take further notice of the sowlio user Maeve.
'what?' she would think to herself as her mind began to function properly again though omitting certain parts of the past that would cause her to destabilize again.
"What are we doing out here?" she would ask her tone of arrogance returning though being tempered with a tone of curiosity. It is at this point that she would recall that Madison was present and would snap to attention with a salute. "Sir." She would say looking to Madison and awaiting any orders or to be dismissed.

[User] "Well.... I can't argue with a valid point." Volkir says quietly, poking a marshmallow he had sat on the table. " But harshness will never win in your favor.... I was once in the state you are in now. Pushing others away, and being rude. Led me to where I am now. No friends, no feelings, just here, empty.... I do not wish to bicker back and fourth with a fellow rune, for it serves no purpose." With that he eats the marshmallow. That's another interesting one, a cold shell, probably due to her past... He sighs and puts his marshmallows away for now.


[System]
Race: Human

Age: 25

Gender: Female

Magic:
"Wrath of Ancient Kings" - What is striking about Minerva the most is her magic. Based on bodily amplification and using two swords, the magic that courses through her veins enables a boon of massively increased speed and perception, making her movements and speed almost imperceivable to the human eye. Upon use, her eyes are filled with white arcing magic, that traces jagged lines down her cheeks. It is often said by her adversaries that they saw her draw a blade, and then they saw nothing else. She holds some elemental prowess like her cousin, Leonora, but she always just seems a hair short in comparison to overall potency of such an art.

Magic Rank: A

Appearance: Normally of rather strict Noble descent, Minerva is a slight outlier from her family's genetic pool. Her father, having left their ranks in his younger years, ended up pairing off with an common woman during his exile. Which naturally lead to the birth of Minerva, who still retained the Fairchild's tall, slender, and absolutely awestriking complexion and figure, yet instead of varying shades of golden locks, she was born with Strawberry Blonde hair. Though her family may wish to perceive her in far more regal clothing, she often chooses to simply wear whatever she wishes. Usually consisting of a blouse, and a loose fitting skirt of some sort. Of which sheathed at her back are her two Cavalry Sabers, one was her father's, the other gifted to her by Leonora Fairchild.

Personality: Fierce, stubborn, and absolute in her own morals, Minerva Fairchild first started off as a simple ruffian, but upon being found by her family; she quickly adopted and adapted to the lifestyle of her kindred Magi. The daughter of the Patriarch's outcast brother, she can still be just a little rough around the edges when it comes to the civility and formality of nobility, but she does what she can, however she can.

Bio:For a Fairchild, Minerva's history is much left in darkness and delusion. Most historians regard her part in the family as simply the Black Sheep's bastard child. Yet some to tend to see things differently. As a youth, she had no idea of her magical capability until the age of sixteen; when she was discovered by Fairchild scouts looking for any possible lost family members after the Second Great War. Knowing she was one of their line, yet not knowing precisely who her Father was, she was welcomed into the family with tentatively open arms.

That was until she gave Leonora, the eventual matriarch of the Fairchild Family, a picture of her father.

What were once open arms were swiftly and cruelly closed.

They had discovered something horrific, William Fairchild, the very abomination who had started the Second Great War, had managed to gain himself a daughter. Judgement against her came quick and brutal. However, there was one who still stood to give the girl some kind of chance. Even in spite of the fact that the first saber she wielded was none other than her father's former blade.

It was Leonora, who saw some potential in Minerva.

With Leonora's careful guidance and teachings, she surprised everyone within the ranks of the Fairchild nobility when her Father resurfaced, Minerva didn't join his side as he thought she would. Rather than go with him and start a new war, she rose up and struck him down. Believing him consumed by his madness, the young woman who eventually became known as one of the most brutal magi swordswomen of the age killed her own father without the least hesitation at the tender age of eighteen.

To preserve her family line.

To preserve peace.

And to save countless lives.

Team Members: None.

Strengths:
1. Swordplay
2. Politics
3. Bodily Enhancing Magic

Weaknesses
1. Elemental Magics (Fire/Water/Lightning/etc.)
2. Familial Tribulations
3. Introversion

Motivation: She wishes to stabilize a chaotic world.

Greatest Love: None.

Additional Bits:
Minerva is quite the excellent cook, though she'd never confess such a skill.

Part of the Fairchild Family's upper echelon of nobility, she has quite a fortune. Having inherited her exiled father's wealth, she tends to avoid the use of it or showing that she has money in the first place; considering it quite a hindrance.

Inventory:
A pair of intricate, priceless, and absolutely beautifully crafted Cavalry Sabers. Both of which are sheathed upon her back waist. Made by the legendary Fairchild family weaponsmiths, most collectors would dream of obtaining them. One of them is her father's, so aptly named Durendal. And the other is Caladbolg, her own personal weapon gifted to her upon passage of her trial.

[User]
EdolasMayt Mayt almost managed to grab Penny's ankle as she took off, missing by barely a centimeter. Cursing, he sighed, before looking over at Karn. "By the looks of it, Penny is about to go do something about the weird skull cannon anyway, so I shouldn't worry about it." He looks back up at Penny, watching with increasing irritation before responding to Karn's second to last comment, looking at him. "Funny, I don't know why you can't transform. You've clearly eaten one of the berries, I can feel your magic power just fine. Josh over there has next to none, and I'm pretty sure he didn't eat a berry, so with the amount you have you must've. Unless you've completely drained yourself, which by the way you're hopping around you haven't, so whose leg are you tryin' to pull?"

EarthlandMithera Mithera chuckled a little at Karn's enthusiasm, and then at Zenoram's attempt as pushing her along. She was a bit interested once he managed it with magic, and after a moment she lied down on Hemlock's back in a spot she knew from experience was not uncomfortable for Hemlock and made her a little easier to carry, before turning and watching the youngest two of the group talking and being friendly, and when Hemlock took off, she couldn't help but feel a tad unnerved by the fact she was not doing the work of flying for once. "It's... Weird, being the rider of a flying creature after having people ride me for so long." She said out loud to herself before setting her head down, knowing it shouldn't be a long flight.

Melina "Who says I wasn't being nice? I did thank you for helping me out back there, and I'll do it again if I have to." Melina said to Maddox, smirking, and putting her arm around James, pulling him close in a way that would make most men blush. "It was quite helpful of you all." She gave James a smile, and rubbed his arms. "And I'm not to be allowed in the Guild Library because I'm not a member of Phoenix Wing, which means some other one of you lovely people is going to have to go in there in my stead so I don't... Defile it, I guess." She made a little giggle before letting go of James, and giving Maddox another smile. "I'm certain getting a book for a little blood mage hoping to be able to use her magic in more fun ways shouldn't be any trouble for powerful Phoenix Wingers like you."

[Assistant]
Master Jamie gave a soft chuckle. He pushed up from the bar, and said "Minerva, you speak as if I do not know why you have been absent. I understand. I knew you would come back. And if I was ever worried about any damage to any structures, I doubt I would send anyone on missions. We always seem to destroy things" Her tone seemed almost musing towards the end.

and then He sighed and said "You may take the job, however, I would prefer it if you didn't start it for a little while. A lot has happened today, and I would rather keep those members remaining here, in the guild. At least until I can figure out how to return our members from Edolas. Sit, and I shall explain what has happened"

[User]
Amelia and Joshua

"Rika, could you go tended to the injured people who are here?" Amelia asked her Spirit.

"Yes, as you wish Mistress."

"I told you not to call me Mistress."

Smiling, Rika walked away to see who needed treatment. The first one she went to was Edo-Lazarus, since he seemed to be dead or just near to it. Ignoring everyone else there, who were no doubt confused by her presence, she knelt next to the man and checked for a pulse. It was there but it was faint. Sighing, she placed her hands over the man's back and concentrated. Her hands would glow a light blue as a magic circle appeared under her. Edo-Lazarus' wounds would begin healing up and she put a little extra magic into it so that the man would have a bit more strength, albeit at the cost of her own. When she was done, she slowly got to her feet, sighing before looking around and spotting everyone else who was injured. She would walk to them one at a time and heal their wounds. Joshua didn't bother resisting when she came around to him, since he was one of the last ones.

Her task done, Rika returned to Amelia, looking exhausted.
"Go back now. You earned the rest." Amelia said, her tone and expression concerned.

"As you wish." Rika said, slowly fading away as dark wisp flew towards Amelia and entered one of the gems on her locket.

Joshua meanwhile, was looking at Mayt.
"Because, unlike you, I don't need magic to win a fight. I can get along just fine without it. Did before I had, can still do now.." He said calmly, rolling his shoulders."Then again, even if I did have my magic, I'm not sure I would even use it. I would really have to be in a bind for that to happen.."

[Assistant]
Edolas ???'Karn'

'Karn' hummed a little as he watched Penny before looking to Mayt at his words. Thinking for a moment, the blonde brushed his hands through the blonde hair before snapping his fingers in realization. Obviously, unworried about anything, despite suspicion. Not like any of them could actually guess who it was other than Karn. After all, their own Guild Master wouldn't hide from them in this situation, that dragon copycat couldn't pull off something like this so easily, and Wizard X hadn't used transformation magic before. Plus Mayt was a little out of it at the time. Awake, but he just saw the word and healing magic. And it was doubtful they knew too many transformation wizards that would bother following all the way to Edolas just to mess with them.

"Oh! A berry? Did it look like a round red candy? Sinny gave me one of those. I thought he was my Sinny but apparently he's another double. He's the one who helped me out of jail. I guess he gave me one of those berries. They didn't quite taste so good, but it's good I can use magic again. But I think I used too much back at the council. Should almost recovered now." 'Karn' mused before curiously watching Amelia work her magic as Joshua talked to Mayt before looking at Joshua with a friendly smile.

"Hello Sammy, I don't think I've met you before. Nice to meet you." 'Karn' chirped, holding out their hand out happily for a handshake to greet him before pausing and glancing toward the dragon chain head. Although Wizard X didn't really want to involve themself in this world's problems in which it was not needed. But they were playing the part of Karn. It be odd if he didn't try to assist in a stupid manner even if he couldn't do a bloody damn thing and was severely injured.

"Well since I have magic, I'm going to see if I can pry that off before it hits the city." he chirped, saluting briefly before promptly bolting. Tripping and falling on his face a couple of times before just getting back up and heading in that direction.

[User]
Minerva Fairchild - The Lion's Fang

The kindness of Jamie's words brought a greater sense from Minerva in terms of her acceptance into the guild. It was difficult being one of her status and having to deal with the trivial strife and troubles of family. His acceptance of that was more of a boon than she could imagine. Nodding in agreement to wait until the return of the main group, she sat comfortably near the Guild Master to patiently wait.

Well, patiently wait until she noticed someone glaring at her from across the room. Minerva frowned at Damian, her fingertips sliding against the grain of the wood as she swiveled about to stride in his direction smoothly. Across the distance, the saunter lead her in his direction just in time for him to finish inquiring about a spar.

"Well, I could always use a tempering of my sword." She began amicably, looking down towards the boy as he sat. "However, the question is whether or not you can actually keep pace with me. Would you like to try to keep pace with one who is of Noble Blood? Perhaps if I win, you will tell me what I have done to you to draw your ire."

[Assistant] -Snip- Mistake, sorry.


[System]
Appearance: Frowning upon you

Age: 15

Personality: Sigma is polite, proper and composed. She however, does not talk much outside formalities and she has a rather icy and cold perspective. She isn't actively avoiding people but for some reason, her interactions with others are merely secondary. Sigma is often fond of quiet places and meditating, and her hobbies save one are all tailored to the perfectioning of her combat skills and tactical thinking. She is often sparring or playing chess. Her only exception seems to be cooking. She has a huge sweet tooth and good cooking skills, surprisingly.

Motive to live: Soldiers do not question their existence. They will live as much as they're told to.

Background: Sigma is... a clone of another person. The only success of Project Homunculus, Sigma was a test of mass production of clone soldiers from already adult stock to replace the losses from the war, but the project's goal shifted to create teenager replicas of actual combat soldiers to pilot Framewerks. So, with that in mind Sigma was trained and implanted with the memories of the original soldier who donned her genetic material: Irina Spanova. The training was brutal and Irina didn't care whether the "dolls" (as she would call it) died or not, since they could be replaced. Only Sigma managed to survive the training and be fielded in a mecha.

Notable Deaths: Sigma wasn't the only viable clone produced in Project Homunculus, but she is the only survivor. Dozens were stillborn, and six of them perished during the initial training and testing. Sigma still regards her fellow clones as sisters and secretly mourns them.

Other things: Cooking is unique to Sigma. Her original can't cook anything.
________________________________________

Framewerk Sheet

Framewerk Code Name: Comet Sigma

Appearance:Couldn't find a better pic, okay?
Signature Weapon System: A high powered Rail weapon. It does not give a big energy signature (being a material projectile) and it can pierce even very thick armors. The downside is that the recharge time is rather awful and it is not suited for close combat.

Secondary Weapon System: A very short range plasma cutter. Useful for fighting in CQC as a last resort and also to extract valuables and people from wrecks.

Flight-Capability/Thrusters: It has basic maneuverability by means of thrusters in the main limbs and torso. It also has a special jetpack on the back designed for space travel, which gives a significant range of movement but it is unwieldy and thus unuseable in combat (but not in retreat).

Synchro Rate : 78% > 82%
Special Ability:

[User] "Mou... why is the commander so mean?" Serah pouts, knowing just why the winner gets a prize. She made her way over to sigma and whispered in her ear: "I'm still onboard~!" Then the little girl went to the girls' dressing room, got changed into her pilot suit, and then made a beeline for Atty.

[Assistant]
Elora sighed at the announcement. She saw a camera in the bathroom, so she expected this to happen. Still, she couldn' help but feel a little oppressed at how adamantly the higher ups wanted to stop them from teaming up. Maybe it was considered unfair to the other pilots, but Elora considered it to be completely fair: Rilus was not a solo combat unit, and wouldn't last for long in any kind of engagement without allies. She was meant to co-operate, and she wouldn't be swayed by any "special rewards" offered by the perverted professor. She had something far more important at stake: the trust of her friends, and she was not going to betray them. On the way to the hangar she gave a thumbs up and a nod to Sigma as a sign of her loyalty to their cause, and went to suit up.

Elora hated how tightly the suit conformed to the skin, not to mention how its design accentuated the chest and crotch region in an embarrassing fashion. It didn't help that she suspected that the professor was peeping on them. Nonetheless, it was a necessity for piloting, and she didn't have much time to sour her thoughts on it when she opened Rilus up and hopped inside.

She did as she promised to Sigma, and set up a command for her to spot enemy units for Sigma along with a small window of her visual interface, practically giving her another pair of eyes to survey the battlefield with. It was easy enough to do, the Combat Analyzer being a state-of-the art supercomputer that could be customized up to the finest details, though Elora didn't touch on anything more than was necessary. She leaned back on her seat once she was done setting up a private channel for her, Serah and Sigma, and waited for the battle to start. She felt relaxed and at ease while she was sitting in front of a computer; she was truly in her element now. Unlike the outside world which was full of hate and malice, inside Rilus she felt like she was safe from all that. It was comforting, almost as if she was held in her own mother's arms.

I miss her. But she would be proud of me, I just know it.

[User]
Sigma clenched her fist. Having been watched by cameras was already considered when she set the plan into motion. She wasn't trying to be sneaky to her superiors, merely testing her waters, and organizing herself some sort of squad in absence of input. Perhaps I've misread those people. They seem to like to jest and mess with our minds far more than I've initially thought. Could she fulfill that kind of condition the new guy demanded after what was said and done? Even if they did pass, there wasn't guarantee the other two wouldn't turn on her...

Her thoughts were interrupted when both of them seemed to still acknowledge Sigma's plan, much to her surprise. Without doubt nor hesitation. The clone trooper was taken aback. She had bribed them, promised sweet things, and manipulated them... and yet, they were still determined to fight side to side. Thank you. She acknowledged mentally, as for the briefest of moments, her lips curled upwards. Sigma, the stoic Sigma, was smiling.

She put her suit swiftly, like many times before this drill. It clung to her like a second skin, perhaps too clingy in some...rather odd parts. Sigma thanked God for having a petite frame, as she could only shudder and imagine how the liutenant was able to squeeze her...more shapely frame in that kind of suit. Finishing the touch by running a hand through her hair, she began walking towards her mech, the Comet.

Inside, it was dark and mechanical, comfortable, but at the same time, ominous and cramped. She started to perform the startup checks when she saw the tiny window popup that came from Elora's Hud. Thinking, she typed a quick message.

I AM SORRY. NO STRAWBERRY CAKE.

Followed with.

IT WILL BE SACHERTORTE.

With that being said and done, she breathed deep, and steeled herself for the upcoming conflict.

[Assistant]
Ian had taken the coffee with a nod, quirking an eyebrow at how Korie got his own bathroom . . .and the strange symbol for it. Okay, he's got a lot of special privileges, must be the kid of someone important. Funny how they tried to throw me off like that, I really don't care if theirs a boy or a girl, I got what I wanted and that's all that matter. Iam perked up when the announcement was made by Lorenzo, his heart starting to race as he made his way to the hanger, tossing his now empty coffee cup into a trashcan and stripping down to his underwear as he made his way there.

When he arrived, he saw his suit was ready for him,and wasted no time putting it on. The skintight fabric didn't bother him, and he took a moment to look at himself, having had the suit customized to better match his Framewerk. It was mainly black, with a number of red hieroglyphic symbols linung the edges to give it some style, as well a tribal motif of a Jackal printed on to the front as well.

"Looking good as always, wouldn't you say Anubis?" Ian turned to look at the framewerk, as if he expected it to respond. A few moments of silence followed before he clicked his teeth dismissively. "Whatever, man, I think I look fan-fucking-tastic."

Ian entered the cockpit, sliding into position on the seat with a excited smile on his face. He always felt at home when he was in Anubis, it was like an old friend to him. He often spent time talking to it, uncaring of how it made him look to others. Anubis was his friend, his confident, and he trusted it with his life on a regular basis, and it had never failed to deliver.

"Come on Anubis, time to show off a little, don't you think?" Ian said as he started up the generator, awakening the God of Burials with a low hum, it.s eyes flashing open in a burst of intense red light. "That's what I thought, because win or lose, we're going to show those bigwigs watching exactly what they signed up for when they let me have you. Let's do this thing!"

Ian activated the Shroud, causing the air to ripple around him as intense kinetic energies began to ciculate arpund Anubis, causing it to float slightly, the blades repositioning themselves in preparation. Ian waited u tilthe way was clear, than he blasted out of the hanger at half-speed, which was still pretty fast as he left behind a slipstream that slowly dissapated behind him. He landed with a crash on top one of the ruins, causing it to crunble slightly and sending up a low, dense cloud of dust. From this cloud, Anubis 14 rose, the rid in it's hand com8ng to life with a flash as a silver spearhead burst out from the tip, an ethereal trail following it as he did a few practice swings.

"Nothing get's your bloo pumping like a good old fashion free-for-all."

[User]
"Attention all Cadets," echoed Lorenzo's voice throughout the speakers from all over the base, "Your mock battle will be happening in approximately ten minutes! Hurry on over to the hangar and do suit up. Don't worry about being indecent either, the only ones that'll be looking is your Framewerk, so go ahead and get ready and move them to nearby ruins where you will be participating in the mock battle. Oh, and do put on a good show… we will be watching your performance with the utmost of interest!"

With a little disturbing laugh, you can't help but wonder if the man was watching you all while you were off to your own devices…

Antwon grunted as he pulled himself up at the thought of the impending battle, feeling pumped by his impromptu exercise. Yeah, these guys definitely aren't up to anything sinister. No sir, Antwon thought to himself, in particular looking towards the one camera pointed squarely in his direction at a farther end of the room. Antwon, mature as he was, enthusiastically displayed his two middle fingers straight in the direction of the lens, before leaping off his raised position and walking casually to the hangars with the rest of his peers. Ant couldn't help but raise an eyebrow as Ian started stripping before he even made it to his mech. Ant made a simple mental note: Watch out for that one.

Ant casually slipped out of his clothes and into his suit right in front of his framewerk, not bothering the walk to the bathroom, and uncaring of the peeping eyes (or so one could only assume) of the rather creepy superior who spoke over the speakers. It was a simplistic forest green, without much insignia, just like Perry. Ant took a moment to look upon his machine with a small sense of pride, then looked over the rest of the competition. He noticed Perry was slightly smaller than most of the other mechs, and far less... accessorized, for lack of a better word. But this only served to comfort him. None of these mechs have even the slightest chance of catching up to me, Ant thought.

Some were certainly threatening in appearance, and most had some very menacing weapon systems, visible from their exteriors alone. But they would be no use if they could not close the distance or make the shot. The only mechs he was truly concerned about were the quicker ones, taking mental notes of the framewerks known as 'Atty' and 'Anubis', the only other mechs that were even marginal in Perry's comparative speed. Most especially, though, was Ant's concern for the mousy girl... he took a very particular mental note of "data collector" when she introduced herself. She will be the most problematic, Ant thought. Best to make sure she is out of the picture, first. Or at least, make sure that I'm not in her scope.

Ant entered his cockpit, quickly made sure his systems were fully operational, and let the numerous thrusters scattered all over Perry warm up. Ant reveled in the sound of Perry's engine revving up to full power, as the lights in his cockpit hummed ever greater to full life. A rare grin grew upon his face, his eyes closed, as he took this small meditative moment to think back on the few pleasant memories he had. Ariadne. Having grown familiar with the sound of Perry's generators when they were ready, Ant's eyes sprung open with a new flame, ready for the chance to prove himself. Just before he could spring out, however, Ian took the lead. "Dammit!" Ant cursed himself, letting one of his targets out of the gate first. Best to get the head start with the others while you still can, Ant concluded.

Perry took a half-kneeling stance, similar to that of an Olympic sprinter. The sound of the thrusters grew even louder, until all at once, Perry practically exploded out from the hangar. In a matter of seconds Perry was already out in the field, noting Anubis was busy flaunting up in the air. Ant smirked to himself. Excellent, he thought, Yes, stay in the air. I'll just be down here, tending to my own business...

Perry leaped like a frog onto the massive boulder sunken before him, using the momentum to change his course left, using similar boulders to swing left, right, left, right... not before long, Perry was well out of view, making preparations for the long haul...

[Assistant]
Sigma examined the situation. Already, several of the fast framewerks were assuming positions. She pondered. Should I already start with my positioning? No, perhaps it is too soon. The pilot of the sniper framewerk instead took off at normal speed, resisting the temptation of igniting the spacetravel thrusters. Seeing piles of debris, she began to scan for a suitable cover, as it was expected of a rifle-toting mecha.

The commlink to Serah and Elora, however, was saying something different.

PROCEED AS IF WE WEREN'T ALLIES FOR NOW. LET THEM THINK OTHERWISE.


[System]
Character Name: Saito Souji
Race: Human
Age: 24
Personality: Itouchi is a somewhat reserved individual, as one might expect from a young Japanese man, however he has a particular sense of judgement. He is prone to making his own conclusions about other people, and while he may not act on those conclusions without further observation, he can break that rule should the person in question be of distaste to him. In particular, those who treat others horribly, who act in service of only themselves, or if they act childishly and waste people's time. Normally he would simply avoid them, but there are times when he may confront them if he believes that not doing so would seriously harm the group.

Despite his rather strong sense of judgement, he's a friendly person, though perhaps due to being reserved, acts somewhat formally most of the time. There are times when around close friends he may act much less so, making more jokes and acting somewhat more carefree. Perhaps something one might notice is a particularly fondness for the Shinsengumi, and though it is not as obvious as it used to be, the leftovers of that more pronounced phase of his remain in his name.

History: Itouchi like many young men graduating university, would find themselves applying for a company and then working there as a salaryman. He was rather fortunate to find a good company, having had a rather normal upbringing. It was this somewhat normal lifestyle combined with the more lonely lifestyle of a salaryman that perhaps pushed him towards Emerald Odyssey, seeking something a little more exciting between work days.

He started playing roughly three or four years ago, and for the first few of those he became an accomplished raider, perhaps the very best for one of the expansions, but stopped after realizing the stress it was beginning to put him under. Though he is thankful for those years as it has shaped him into a more than competent player, both overall skill with the game, and when it comes to playing with other people which was a central component. From then on he normally just played the game with friends, only delving into difficult content on a casual basis.

Class(es):
* Samurai - [Katana] - A melee DPS class that utilizes a Katana. A swift and agile class boasting high critical rate and critical damage that aims to move through droves of enemies with very few strokes of the blade. As a drawback, their damage if they do not land a precise strike would be more than underwhelming, and defensive capabilities are nearly none, preferring to avoid blocking with their weapon. They have access to perhaps the fastest set of weapon skills called Battoujutsu, where the samurai may resheathe their weapon, gathering up their focus and spiritual energy before unleashing it in an impressive display of blinding speed.
* Kagemusha - [Nodachi] - Meaning "shadow warrior", a tank class that utilizes a Nodachi. In particular they make use of shadowy decoys to gain the attention of the enemy and even confuse them, as well as creating veils of shadow over their allies in order to hide them or guard them from attack. Every shadow generated costs a portion of the Kagemusha's health pool, however should these decoys slay enemies or deal sufficient damage, they can return to the Kagemusha to restore their health.
* Ashigaru - [Matchlock Firearms] - A ranged DPS class that utilizes matchlock firearms. Though it has a low firing rate compared to many if not all ranged classes, it boasts high damage per shot, and the highest critical damage of ranged classes. Despite being a ranged DPS class, it is frequently seen fighting in close quarters, only retreating to fire off their fatal shots. The Ashigaru also use matchlock handguns in these situations, with skills based around evasion and breaking armor. This class is also known to be a popular secondary, as the handguns can be used alongside any weapon that can be wielded with one hand.

Non-Combat

* Blacksmith - Though he doesn't delve a lot into crafting, he found himself making use of blacksmith frequently to maintain his weapons. He can craft new ones too, but for some reason the best weapons he can craft are all for his classes. Blacksmith as a profession is quite popular as people need or want new shiny gear all the time, and while he is not a reputed crafter, the katana that he can craft are of top quality... And nothing else.

Other:
* His character name Saito Souji is a combination of Hajime Saito and Okita Souji.
* Kagemusha refers to a political term coined during the Sengoku period meaning "shadow warrior", and means to refer to body doubles, thus the protective nature of the class.
* The coat he wears is obtained from PvP, and was a limited run at the time. Very few players have it.
* He has a small player home in the eastern region.

[User]
Nova

---

---

"The other problem being us, huh," Nova raised her brows, somewhere between offended and amused. "Well, you're right we should take care of this guy first, though," she agreed with a light shrug. She glanced at the player who struggled with bringing the man to his feet, slinging him across a shoulder. "Here, let me," she offered, going around so as to help support him from the other side. "I'm Nova, by the way."

There was little chatter on the way, and it was kind of slow going, given two of them had to drag an unconscious person between them. Nova rubbernecked around as much as she could, marveling at how expanded, how real the city was now.

It took a few minutes before they made it to a deserted street, and to an unknown house. Whether it was Windstar's home, or merely a temporary safe house was unknown. It was inconspicuous, but was fairly normal.

A silent elf butler helped them take the unconscious man downstairs at Eunice's direction. It was kind of awkward to do that without a stretcher, but they managed.

Then, they returned to the first floor, sat around, and Windstar told her tale. "An empty void," she muttered thoughtfully, thinking of those guards' reactions who'd thought her mentally unstable.

"A drive to know?" she scoffed. "Didn't you say earlier you had to protect that man from being questioned?" she asked dubiously. Nova didn't mistrust Eunice per say, but did find it strange she'd trusted them as easily, given everything.

"You're right I won't go telling others, though," she confirmed with a head shake. It'd be way too troublesome trying to spread this, and would cause chaos, anyways. But if she found trustworthy others though…Well, at least she could bring them to Eunice – unless the woman wouldn't be available, of course. Curious about that point, she asked, "Do you already have any plans what you'll do, or do you intend to decide after we tell you what we do?"

Regardless of Eunice's answer, Nova would nod, and say, "Alright, then."

"You said you wanted to know our side of things, huh. Well…We're basically people from another world, and this," she motioned with an arm around them, "all of this, the whole world here, was just a game to us. A digital game based on a computer program – no magic involved, just technology.

"And before you ask, no, it's not normal from our side of things to be able to travel to different worlds, technology or no. We had no magic – it wasn't considered real, there was no evidence for it. Sure, people believed in deities, or spirits, or the afterlife, but it was all personal belief, you know? There were no spells of the kind you can find here. Oh, and we were all humans," self-consciously, she tugged at her wolf ears, "so this is a bit of a change."

"But, yeah, no dice on the why. We don't even know how this could have happened. It shouldn't have been possible based on what we know of our world," Nova concluded.

[Assistant]
Luna
Myrtle Bramblewood
Sen Rynta — Wellspring Park

Hmm?

What's this? A new character just entered the fray?

She seemed to be a knight, judging by that armor. A Paladin, perhaps? So she's a PC. And she's healing the man! Ooh, that's great! Someone does listen to my speech back there!

Though thinking about it, I could've given him one of my healing potions. Oops, I completely forgot I could do that.

Once the Paladin stood back up, however, she gave Myrtle an unsolicited advice.

And she wasn't sure if she liked said advice.

"Dangerous? I don't think there's anything dangerous about what's going on here." Myrtle folded her hands under her chest with a confident smile. "I can hold my own in a fight. Oh, and thank you, by the way, for healing him. Now that we're stuck in this world, we really should start treating these NPCs better." She then reached her hand towards the paladin. "The name's Myrtle Bramblewood. Pleased to meet you, Miss."

[User]
Saito Souji
Aluvera - Alleyway

---

Certainly, it did not feel right to just be gallivanting off while fighting was going on outside, although given the circumstances, getting answers seemed to be priority, at least to everyone present. The explanation given was not substantial in his opinion, nothing said was unable to be gleamed from just looking around, or witnessing the spectacle prior. The answer given whether or not the young girl knew them or not was rather cryptic, and only raised more questions. In times like these, perhaps going along with the events was the better course of action, and it seemed to be the way everyone here was going to go.

"Hmmmm... Well, I suppose I'll also play along. It seems there's more to this than just some 'attack' on a town", one that was a sanctuary no less, it seems the world did not abide by the rules of the game anymore, that much was already certain. Only thing not understood was to what extent... As the talking went on he quickly summed it up cutting towards the end of a long-winded explanation.

"Basically, to cut it short, we know nothing. We woke up and ended up in a game we play frequently. It may seem strange for us to call your world a game but that is just how it is... Or rather, was. We were hoping to get answers from you instead", he explained.


[System]
Age: 16 (going on 17)
Personality: She's tough, mean (especially to Slicks), stubborn, and ruthless. But, that's just on the outside. On the inside she's just a big softy who would rather do things in a non violent way. She also cares very deeply about her looks. If her hair isn't perfect she won't go out anywhere. (Curly hair is hard to deal with)

Bio: She was born to a rich family. She has 7 older brothers (and one lazy cat), her being the youngest. All of them give her a tough time for being the youngest. But they all still love her the same. She gets into trouble very often, so they all decided to teach her how to fight. Or at least enough to defend herself.

Ever since she was little, she was treated more like a boy than a girl. Dressing up in pants than skirts, wearing her brothers' hand-me downs, hanging out with guys instead of girls, etc. Even though she was raised around tough brothers, her softer side is full of love for music.

Her dream was to become a pianist. Her parents refused to let her play piano. They wanted her to work in the family business. (A chain of diners throughout the state) She had used her allowance to sneak off and hire a tutor to teach her late at night. Her brothers do quite a good job of keeping cover for her.

Her brothers names (from oldest to youngest):
Lenny
Charlie
Antonio
Oliver
Andy
Jacob
Wilson

Her personality says slick, but she's really a royal.

[User]
Corrine nodded solemnly.

"Yeah, I get it. But what's going to happen to you now? What if Charles hurts you? I couldn't live with myself if he did that! Rolo, please be careful! Just stay on his good side!" Corrine sprang up and hugged Rolo tightly.

"I'll get you out of there! I'll be your knight and shining armor! I'll get everyone out of there and beat that nasty Charles! If only I knew what to do..." Corine sighed and let go of Rolo. There had to be a way Corrine could help Rolo and the gang, but how?

[Assistant]
"Aww, that's sweet." Rolo replied whilst he hugged Corinne back.

She was as warm and as soft as ever. Rolo missed her hugs, more than Corinne realised. He wished that they never ended. That they could just sit beneath the fir tree and just hug for the rest of the day. The warmth of Corinnes soft body combined with the subtle subtle scent of her perfume was like heaven for Rolo. But alas, her embrace ended as quickly as it began.

"You don't have to worry about me Corinne baby. Like I said, as long as you're by my side, anything is possible. I'm sure the fellas and I will come up with a plan eventually. Thanks for cheering me up though. You made me feel so much better. I feel like I can fight the world now!" Rolo stated happily.

"But I think you should know the truth about what we really are. About what really happened back in the bad old days that made everything the way it is now. Long before you came to this one horse town. Don't worry sweet thing, it gets better." said Rolo before shooting Corinne a playful wink.

[User]
Corrine cuddles up close to Rolo and loks into his eyes. Her eyes sparkle with curiosity and excitement. She knew this was going to be interesting! And she may learn about Rolo's past! Something that Rolo didn't ever discuss with her. She realized that Rolo was rather secretive with her. He never really said anything about the gang or even himself until now.

Corrine wiggled around in her seat, waiting for Rolo to start.

"Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!"

[Assistant]
Rolo chuckled to himself before replying to Corinnes earnest request. That was another thing he loved about Corinne, how genuinely sweet and easily impressed she was. Story time with her was starting to become one of his favourite pass-times. Right after eating hot-dogs and pancakes. With the weight of the world lifted from his shoulders for just a brief while, he regaled Corinne with the humble origins of the baddest gang in town. It was a story he had never told before. Sure, the events were common knowledge to anyone who had attended Salt Bay High in the past. But never once had Rolo, nor any of the crew for that matter, ever gave an inside account of what transpired during such a turbulent time in the schools history. Corinne had no idea how much of an honour was being bestowed upon her at the time. Only someone who had joined the gang as a fellow brother would be made privy to what Rolo was about to tell her. As far as Rolo was concerned though, Corinne was a Salt Bay Turbo. He dared not say it though. Not until everything was made official first.

"Do you know the kids that were picked on all the time? The ones that the rich snobs preyed on that nobody gave a damn about? They got together to form the first youth gang in Sea Salt Bay. They were truly the baddest of the bad. True rebels in every sense of the word. Us Salt Bay Turbos ain't nothin compared to those guys. And those guys were...." Rolo paused dramatically before continuing.

"The Rebel Sharks!" Rolo announced with as much gravitas as he could muster.

"I don't think you would've heard of em baby girl. Ain't nobody talks about em anymore. The rich snobs or "The Royals", as they like to call themselves, they would love it if everyone forgot about em. But us Salt Bay Turbos, we keep their memory alive! At least, we used to." said Rolo with reverence.

[User]
"Rebel... sharks?" She began to imagine a gang similar to The Dragons, Antonio's old gang. She shuddered. The dragons were such a scary gang. Hopefully, these guys weren't, Corrine thought.

"What did they do? Were they big and scary?!" Corrine gripped onto Rolo's arm.

[Assistant]
"They were only as scary as they had to be Corinne baby. And believe me, they had to be really freakin scary back then." answered Rolo.

"No little lady, they weren't bad guys. In fact, they were the opposite. They were the heroes. They were everyones heroes actually. Their struggle against the cruel elitist snobs of this town inspired so many people. Baby you have no idea. The shit they got up to. I can spend all day tellin you about how they stuck it to the man. They even had the royals shakin in their boots at times. The chaos they spread in the school, man." said Rolo enthusiastically.

"You wanna know the coolest thing about em Corinne? Anyone could join their gang. Just as long as you hated those snobby Royals that is. They united people of all different types. That shit is huge around here." Rolo explained reverently.

"They stuck it to the Royal whenever they could, any any way they could think of. It was like a prank explosion, but with the Royals as the only victims. Pretty soon, ain't nobody was afraid of em anymore. People were free to be whoever they liked and hang with whoever they wanted. It was more than that Corinne, everyone became friends. It was truly the funnest and coolest time to be at this school. I just wish I was old enough to be around when it all went down. Sadly though, the Royals ruined it all, as usual." said Rolo.

He hugged Corinne even closer now. He loved this story. Waxing nostalgic always put him in a good mood.

[User]
Corrine sprang up out of Rolo's arms. "I wanna be a rebel shark too! I wanna beat that nasty Charles!" Corrine gasped and squished her cheeks.

"We should bring them back! Under a different name! This could be a way to save you! If we get a group of people to make Charles scared, he'll have to let you guys go! But we need a tough name... oh! And maybe something to identify them too!" Corrines head was buzzing with ideas. She may have just found a way to save her Rolo! And his friends!

[Assistant]
"Slow down Corinne baby. I haven't gotten to the kicker yet." Rolo said happily.

"Just like what happened with the Salt Bay Turbos, the Old Royals approached them with a deal. One that promised them more than they dared to dream of. And just like us, it proved to be their downfall. Lookin back on things now, it was stupid of us to try the same shit as they did. But we were so far up our own asses. We thought we were too smart to let Charles get the best of us like that. I guess that ain't true after all." Rolo said in a more serious tone.

Anyways, the Old Royals wanted to end the feud. To let bygones be bygones. They allowed anyone to attend their fancy parties and hang out on their massive yachts if they wanted to. They even allowed some kids to become Royals themselves if they were cool and good looking enough. They offered the high life to anyone who wanted it. Such a deal was too good to be true. Sadly, it was. Those royals are such sneaky fucks, I'll give em that." explained Rolo.

"The sneaky part came later. When they slowly but surely put restrictions on who could become a fellow Royal and who can hang and stuff. Eventually, this caused a divide in the Rebel Sharks. The two biggest groups that formed within the super group were the Slicks and the Salt Bay Turbos." revealed Rolo.

[User]
"The slicks... they hang out in the junkyard, yeah? So they were part of the sharks too? Why did they split up? Why can't everyone just get along?!" Corrine pleaded. It wasn't fair that only a few were allowed to be one or the other. Everyone was equal right?

"You said there were two main groups right? Who else was there?! Maybe we can get them to help you!" She thought out loud. Oh, how she wanted to save her Rolo. How she wanted him and his friends to get along and finally be free from Charles.

"There's gotta be something..."

[Assistant]
Rolo shook his head ruefully. "No can do sweet thing. All those other smaller groups are long gone. It's just the Turbos and the Slicks now. Those damn Slicks. If it wasn't for them..." Rolo ended with a momentary pause.

"Ya see Corinne, it was the Slicks who wanted the "high life" that the Old Royals offered more than anyone else. They wanted it so bad that they completely disregarded the original purpose of the Rebel Sharks and broke away. Of course this caused a chain reaction that splintered the whole group. But it was us Salt Bay Turbos that remained loyal to the spirit of our rebellion. After the group or "movement" broke apart it was obvious that the old spirit was lost. And so those of us who were still loyal thought it dishonest and downright disrespectful to keep the name of the Rebel Sharks. That's why we call ourselves the Salt Bay Turbos." explained Rolo.

"The Slicks were so far up the Old Royals asses that the only time they ever saw daylight was when a Royal took a dump. Ironically though, that shit didn't work out too well for em. The Old Royals used them as free muscle for hire but that never once made any of em a Royal. The Salt Bay Turbos though, we stayed true to who and what we were. Because of this the people still considered us the heroes that the Rebel Sharks used to be. And so in the end, it was us that the Old Royals favoured more than those slimy Slicks." said Rolo rather smugly.

"But we weren't so heroic either. We took up the Old Royals offer of greater loyalty in exchange for both greater popularity and access to the high life, as well as the end to the class struggle of course. To top it all off, we were going to stick it to those Slicks bastards for being such greedy little pussy ass bitches. It seemed too good to be true. By that time though we were so blinded by our lust for revenge that we forgot that the Slicks used to be fellow Rebel Sharks as well. That they struggled alongside us from the very beginning. Greed and vengeance man, those things will fuck you up." said Rolo gravely.

"We've been at war with the Slicks ever since. Luckily for us, those Slicks bastards were not as strong as us. But still, with everything goin on lately, I dunno." said Rolo nervously.

"So the original Salt Bay Turbos were the lapdogs of the Old Royals for a while. So taken in were we by the glamour of the Old Royals that we became the very thing the Rebel Sharks vowed to destroy. The oppressive social hierarchy was back but this time, it was being enforced by us. The kids of this school once more lived in fear. Extreme bullying was once again committed by the Old Royals without consequence. Luckily though it didn't take long for us to join the dots. And so we waited until the Old Royals had complete faith in us and until we were at the height of our own power and influence. At long last we all said "fuck it" and just plumb decided to stop doing their dirty work. Of course it caught those Old Royal assholes off guard but there was not a thing they could do about it. We had them by the balls this time. Despite all the shit we did for them, we still had the respect of the people back from the Rebel Shark days. We threatened to start a new rebellion if they continued to pull their bullshit. Such a thing made them wet themselves of course." explained Rolo.

"So everyone said "fuck it" and the whole thing just fell apart. The Old Royals stopped their extreme bullying campaigns of the "untouchable" kids after they broke apart and us Salt Bay Turbos just chilled the fuck out and did our own thing. At long last, there was peace at Salt Bay High. That was, until this recent bullshit with Charles." said Rolo with obvious frustration in his voice.

"I said I will tell you baby girl so here it is, the truth about us Salt Bay Turbos. The truth is that we do not want to be a gang. That we only stayed a gang because of the Slicks and the lingering evil of the Old Royals. I suppose Chet wanted to destroy the one last person that could bring about the rise of the New Royals in one fell swoop. But it turned out that Charles is the sneakiest motherfucka of all. He turned that desire against us. We've failed the memory of the Rebel Sharks. We fell into a trap so deep that....." said Rolo woefully.

He was suddenly struck with the shame of it all. New tears began to well up in his eyes. He tried not to cry this time, but some tears still ran down his face.

[User] Corrine hugged Rolo again. It broke her heart to see him so stressed. There had to be some way to beat Charles at his own game. Taking control of a group of people and threatening them was beyond infuriating. Corrine could feel her blood boil. If steam could come out of her nose it would. While Rolo was crying, Corrine was steaming.