[System]
Age: 23

Magic: Tatsumi has a natural proficiency for Darkness magic, the dangerous nature of the skill perfectly fitting his reckless nature. Despite the risks he relies heavily upon his magic in combat.

Weapon: It is perhaps a stroke of irony, or typecasting, that the first weapon Tatsumi received upon arriving in the World of Wasted Dreams was a katana. He wields the sword as his primary weapon, favoring it greatly over other weapons. When forced to attack from a range Tatsumi does not rely upon conventional weaponry, instead turning to the somewhat dubious magic he wields. Besides his skill with the katana Tatsumi is a skilled martial artist, noted as a practitioner of Muay Thai and Kendo.

Bio: I remember something... it feels so long ago. It's like another life... The Shinai made a harsh thunk as they repeatedly crashed against each other. I can hear that sound so clearly, but everything else feels distant. He knew that the match that happened there was what mattered most to him. Everything else was pointless. Yes... that's what matters. The opponent. The dojo. Nothing else. I remember... wanting a life like that. A life of adventure, where I fought seemingly insurmountable foes... but I won. The thunks sped up, blows of increasing fury meeting each other. But one simple slip up, and it was over. There was no protective gear, was there? Why? After that, everything was fuzzy.

He remembered the blinding white lights of the hospital. Being propelled down the hallway on the gurney. The thumping, throbbing, all-consuming pain in his head. And the blood. The blood was everywhere.

And then Tatsumi woke up. That must've been a dream, nothing about that made sense... Tatsumi wasn't sure where he was, but it felt right. He knew he belonged here.

Personality: Tatsumi is perhaps first noted by those he meets for his sheer amicability. He's very friendly and outgoing, and meets strangers with an unusual eagerness to make friends. He's a natural when it comes to getting along with people, and is bound to make new friends in every locale he visits. He has what could be defined as a 'hero complex', wishing to be seen by those around him as someone strong, someone to admire. He's a paragon of morality, a shameless goody-two-shoes. He's incredibly helpful, willing to lend a hand to those in need, notably a sucker for the 'damsel in distress' stereotype, oft going out of his way to save the girl.

Tatsumi's negative features come in the form of his cocksureness. He's dangerously confident, reckless, and ridiculously cocky. Naturally, this combined with his wont to be a hero leads him to crave adventure and danger. Despite his somewhat 'goofy' attitude Tatsumi is surprisingly bright, perceptive, and calculating. When approaching an enemy clearly out of his league he always endeavors to have a plan to beat the insurmountable odds.

Underneath Tatsumi's shell of cheerfulness even he seems to harbor some sadness: Perhaps some lingering resentment from his time in the world before that of Wasted Dreams...

[User]
[color=EE82EE]

Mu thought about the situation at hand. He did not feel the slightest bit of guilt when his fellow hunter engaged in combat and he sat back and watched. He thought hat if they really needed him they would ask for his help, plus something inside of told him that this situation was not his fight and he would only complicate things further. Then the whole lava monster thing just popped out. It was pretty big and had Mu on edge the whole time.

When the others engaged it they seemed pretty good listening to the fox ladies commands and attacking it were it hurt. When the other hunter appeared Jin had jumped down and was playing with dirt and rocks on the ground. After it was brought to its knees the beast seemed to have made a decision and decided to bury them alive. Rocks and boulders started to fall, Mu and Jin were dogging them left and right mocking each other, looking like to dancing monkeys. The one giant rock came down and it looked like it was going to hit Jin, Mu jumped faster than he knew how and re-strapped the umbrella to is back and drew the Nodachi and cut the rock in half.

Jin scrambled up Mu's leg and back inside his jacket. He let out a breath of relief and patted his chest were the monkey was. "Whoa! That was a close one." He looked over when he saw that Tatsumi was blowing his fuse and it was pointed at Akemi. Mu rushed up behind him and avoided any more boulders coming his way. "Hey man! Calm down, we don't have time to be bitching and yelling. Now pay attention to the big red thing before you get crushed, and if we survive you can do and say what you want to the fox lady, but for now I NEED YOU TO FOCUS!!" He said the last words with his voice raised and Mu rarely raised his voice at any one. But this situation seemed familiar to him and it got his blood boiling.

[Assistant]
A loud crack echoed across the ravine as one mighty stone arm was shattered into nothing more than pieces. The creature sensed the Hunter with the twin Zweihanders and gathered up a mighty boulder in its one remaining arm. Gripped in its pronged hand, it hurled the thing like a plummeting meteor at the one who had crippled it so.

Luckily, the creature's aim was interrupted slightly as Tatsumi leaped into the air with a shimmering sword of black. With a heave, he brought it down on the Monolith with one swing, an arc of darkness leaving the blade's wake. Unfortunately for him, he had not counted on the lack of force behind the extended length. Still, the action alone was enough to anger the foul beast.

The massive monster roared in a plume of fire and brimstone, smacking its arm against the side of the ravine in an attempt to knock yet more rocks and debris onto the new Hunters. When it was becoming apparent that the group was surviving longer than expected, the Monolith sprayed a stream of lava down its own torso, the hot liquid pooling downwards its body with a trail of lingering fire falling behind. Now it truly was a walking, rampaging volcano.

The lava was fast approaching and if the Hunters didn't react fast, it would coat the Monolith's body completely, leaving it practically invincible to their weapons now. Only Akame knew that the soft folds lying just between where the joints connected to the main torso was its sole weak point. Binding its hard exterior together was a layer of soft rock that could easily be cut and torn. The problem was the lava flowing down, soon sealing up those vulnerable points forever.

That being said, it didn't look like Akame was in any mood to give out that information so freely, if her mood with the others was to be noted.

Back in White Wolf Tavern, Maribel only rolled her eyes at Donny's continuous nicknames along with his carefree attitude. Before she could answer his question about a budget though, the Hunter was already out of his seat and loitering off somewhere else, saying something exploring. Sighing to herself, the young girl went back to her bloody mugs. After all, the only one who collected taxes and due finances in Iredele was the mayor of course.

[User]
"Ok, now I'm officially pissed off with you, cherry boy" Akemi said while placing a finger on Tatsumi's face "I'm not your mother, so I have no obligation of telling you that putting your hand on the fire hurts. If I told you once to not do it, why have you continued like a gleeful idiot?" She was having her time chewing on the boy, but it was either that or the worst alternative.

Anyway, when she saw the development of the fight, Akemi turned her back to Tatsumi and went towards Alto and the others "If he can't learn after all that, I won't care for it anymore" she thought on the way there.

"Simply put, we have to shatter his armor. His body won't be able to keep its form until it reforms the armor and we will get a free chance to destroy the core" The vixen said when Alto asked her how to destroy the Monolith. "Lucky you, I have a plan for that." she said sheathing her sword and placing her hands on her hips.

Inspiring OST

"We need to drag him further into the ravine, until we reach the Lake of Tears. There's many pools of water there, it this thing drops on one of them, his armor will become as easy to crack as an egg shell" Akemi explained her plan to both Alto and Sinthe via a series of shouts while she tried to dodge the oncoming lava and rocks. "Since you're already up there, why don't you act as our navigator while we guide the thing from here? All you have to do is be sure that we keep on going to Southwest" She said, asking for Sinthe's collaboration and pointing to where Southwest was supposed to be.

After she explained her plan Akemi jumped in front of the Monolith and threw a rock at its face to try to attract the creature's attention "You clear the way ahead, I'll take care of the Monolith! You're the vanguard, after all. Am I right?" she told Alto, pointing to the dark crevasses ahead of them, which no doubt would be full of dangers to overcome.

"The time limit before the lava reaches Iredele is about two hours if I'm right. Now move your asses!" Akemi shouted as she jumped above the rocky fist that came crashing down on her. This would be the newbie hunters first true test, the outcome of which would affect their future lives forever.

"Do or die, heh? I always liked that part..."

---

@Diggerton@TheWindel@Spriggs27

[Assistant]
"Ooooo, someones in trouble~"

Jenniver's mono tone came ringing out as she returned from whatever she had been doing, coming just in time to see Akemi telling off the boy Tatsumi for his actions. She could tell that despite the fox girls attempt to seem like she did not care all that much about them, that bout of yelling along with her rather empathetic actions up to this point proved otherwise, it was rather cute.

Still it was time for a real plan to be put into action! Thankfully Jen had been making sure that none of the monsters from the surrounding area would interfere so hopefully they would not be caught out as they enacted Akemi's plan to lead the thing to the lake of tears past the ravine, easier said than done. "I shall be apart of the vanguard too!" Jen said while raising her hand like she was still in school trying to attracted attention from the others.

Moving up to stand by Alto, her rather thin two handed sword paling in comparison to his duel large weapons, though she liked to think she was far more elegant with her other weapon. "Let's go." Shifting on her heels with just that she started to head towards the ravine to meet the monsters head... Woe to all beasts that were to meet the wall of steel now advancing.

[User]
"Cool! I'm on it" He yelled up to Akemi.

Another newbie hunter appeared and stated intentions of joining the vanguard. Actually, she probably wouldn't be the last one either.

"Dark kid, you better stay behind us." He said to him, "It'll probably be safer than staying here."

He didn't say anything to the other new kid which had appeared just after Akemi had shouted at Dark Kid, mostly because he wasn't sure what the guy was about and he sort of seemed to be pretty useless at that point in time. He hadn't been in the Ravine before so he didn't know what any of the beasts in there really were but that just meant taking someone who didn't seem to be that strong wasn't going to be a good idea.

"Vanguard, forward!" He shouted.

He bounded forward, easily catching up and surprassing the new hunter and dashed straight into the darkness. He wasn't sure what was in there but he was pretty sure it bled.

[Assistant]
When Akemi began to give people orders, Sinthe hoped that she sobered up enough to give them good enough orders and would be a good leader in the moment, when she said for Sinthe to give them directions he nodded looking down to Akemi and the others on the ground."Okay !" When he looked out to the distance he could see the sky's moonlight reflect off the ground and Sinthe could tell that it was the water that Akemi was looking for.

Sinthe pointed to the direction of the lake, it was further in the ravine." Down there ! I see the moon's reflection in the lake, it's just further into the ravine." Sinthe told Akemi and the others, he began to climb towards the lake staying up high and keeping his grip on the ravine's walls so he wouldn't end up a stain on the ground or get them lost. He looked out far to see the reflection of the moon in the ground and saw the lake once again.

[User]
Tatsumi was mad, but regretted his outburst. It's not advantageous for me to make enemies, but Akemi isn't exactly making this easy... at least she's trying to help now. Tatsumi had no choice but to follow Akemi's plan, although it appeared he didn't have a part to play. Is that on purpose because I pissed her off? I should probably apologize at some point... but it's not exactly like I'm solely at fault here... Tatsumi shook his head. It was best to get moving with the group. The shadowy sword dispelled, fading from Tatsumi's hand. Whatever I think about her it's probably best to listen, I'll get the full story on this stuff from someone less abrasive later.

Tatsumi ran to catch up to the 'vanguard', lagging behind Jen who was in turn lagging behind Alto. Tatsumi was ordered to stay behind. He's trying to leave me in the dust?! How can he possibly think so negatively already? I didn't even do anything! Tatsumi ignored him, charging behind the vanguard. I can't just sit here and look like and idiot! But what kind of trouble does Akemi expect? Are there more monsters in the ravine? Tatsumi raised his sword, following Alto into the abyss. "C'mon, don't just count me out like that!" He shouted to the clearly more experienced hunter.


[System]
The galaxy is, in a way, it's own character, and everyone is free to add things to it. This is a collection of all the "Meanwhile!" style posts, that either provide some commentary to what's happening, explain some concept within the game, foreshadow certain events or simply add a wonderful little bit of extra flavour to help set the mood. To keep things vaguely organised, the posts will be linked to in the order they've been posted, along with a note of who wrote what.

Meanwhile! The Introduction of Doctor Frosty & Cold Front
Meanwhile, upon Dämmerlicht... by @Valor
A Hendersons Ribs Jingle by @TwelveOf8
A footnote on Swarm Sentience by @DracoLunaris
Meanwhile! An Introduction To Faster-Than-Light Travel
Meanwhile, in the past... by @DepressedSoviet
Meanwhile! Life on Dämmerlicht! by @Valor
Please rise for the national anthem of Monochromia, with notes, by @TwelveOf8
The Hendersons Ribs Safety Jingle, transcribed by @TwelveOf8
A newspaper article from Ofromia Tonight, written by Aggro Deluxe.

[User]
Apparently Toony had greatly embarrassed both the robot and Fiddlesticks. Dating a robot was a secret? Toony didn't really get why most organics were such scardycats about their own bodies. What was weird was the cleaner robot being shy about the whole affair too. Sure, a cleaner robot being used for fun times was probably not what it was made for, but Toony wasn't going to push that issue just yet.

"So... if it doesn't matter if I'm a lady, why did you ask and why are you acting so flustered when I said I was one?" Toony said with a giggle, noting how fiddlesticks was being flustered and dismissive. Before much else could happen besides Fiddlesticks digging into his icecream, the FTL drive started up. When they made the jump to FTL space, Toony was relieved that this ship was outfitted correctly for it, having been preparing for some sort of flattening effect due to extreme speeds.

"Glad this ship can handle FTL." Toony said, unpeeling herself from the wall she stuck herself to and walking around a bit. Glancing at Fiddlesticks, she said. "So, besides the attempted robot intercourse thing, got anything you wanna chat about? Vanessa didn't wanna talk at all."

[Assistant]
Fiddlesticks felt a strange dip. The kind of dip that one would feel at the top of a roller coaster track. The one that gave the roller coaster carts their momentum for the rest of the ride. This dip almost made Fiddlesticks spill his ice cream. He thought it strange but didn't pay it any mind. The fun berry ice cream was begging to be eaten. And so it was.

"Wha wa dat?"Fiddlesticks asked Toony @Archmage MC. His mouth was full of ice cream which muffled his speech. Specs of the creamy dessert flew from his mouth as he spoke.

He took a massive gulp before issuing a satisfied sigh. "Oh, uhh no reason. It's just that I've never seen a robot like you before. Just curious is all" replied Fiddlesticks. "What the heck's an intercourse? Is that like a special pod racing track or something?" he asked, not really caring whether he was answered or not. "I'll have you know that cleaner bots are not designed for pod racing. Racing pods are cleaned by pit stop cleano bots." Fiddlesticks stated with the authority of a learned scholar.

Despite being completely aware of how attractive this female robot was, he felt neither shyness nor awkwardness. This was a first for Fiddlesticks, especially with a girl as attractive as Toony. Maybe she knew a thing or two about girls and dating since she's essentially one herself.  "Actually Toony"Fiddlesticks hesitated before continuing "I need some dating advice, for a friend". "Make it quick though, with faster than light travel, we'll be there sooner than you think" he warned.

[User]
The bashfulness the AI was kind of adorable, the Mind decided it would stop its questioning before it caught fire from embarrassment. Not that the Ai was blushing mind you, if parts of the ship or bot where to go bright red that would be… well it would actually be an indication that it was about to catch fire. so it was a good thing it did not exhibit that part of the emotional display.

"Ah, I see. Well good luck with furthering your relationship via ventriloquism. I will speak with you and the crew when we arive, for now I am going to get some down time. See you on the other side"

The purple lights faded from the Bees antenna, the Will having gone back to it's equivalent of sleeping and so the Bees in the cockpit returned to what the where doing, namely mucking about or watching the subspace go by. Down in the rest of the ship the rest of the bees did the same, or took a nap depending on how busy they had been so far today.

The bees that had been looking for a trenchcoat had found one, as well as a pair of grabber sticks, a balloon, two peg legs and a felt tip pen and were busy working away in a buzz of activity, preparing for some kind of plan they had made up.

[Assistant]
Toony didn't find herself to be too surprised at Fiddlestick's lack of insight. Nanobot fabrication robots were extremely rare or outright illegal to make in most systems due to the inherent dangers of an out of control nanobot swarm, let alone one with an AI advanced and seasoned enough to pass off as a person. Innuendos also seemed to go over his head, unless he was being cheeky back, though Toony didn't think he was.

When being asked about dating advice though, Toony decided to be honest with Fiddlesticks, instead of teasing him with her advice. "Honestly? I'm not a great robot to ask for dating advice. If its for a one night stand thats not hard to do for me since most guys or gals jump at the chance. If its a guy trying to one night a girl, they're SOL if the girl isn't into it unless they do something fantastic." Toony said, drumming along in an almost monotone nonchelaunt matter-of-fact voice instead of being animated. "For a real realtionship? I've never had one. But I'd think anything would go as long as both parties were honest. If both parties want an actual relationship anyway it'll work out fine even if its a disaster. If only one does and the other doesn't, its not going anywhere anytime soon I'd think." Glancing away from Fiddlesticks for a moment, she continued, sitting down. "But yeah, I'm not the best person to ask for that. I'm a 'go with the flow' sorta gal." Toony finished, waving her arms in a jointless wave, the rest of her body following suit.

[User]
Toony @Archmage MC was right about one thing. She wasn't a good robot to ask for dating advice. What she basically said was that she was so sexy that everyone wanted her all the time. Also, that a relationship would go great guns if both people were totally honest and they wanted the exact same things. Fiddlesticks was a few prawns short of a galaxy when it came to matters of love and intimacy and even he knew that. But still, Fiddlesticks felt that it was nice to know someone or something else that was as clueless as he.

"Oh, ok. Thanks anyway." Fiddlesticks replied. He felt a little nervous now for he was going to undertake a secret mission. A mission that may very well be way over his head. Perhaps this was a test, Fiddlesticks thought to himself. A training exercise maybe? It would make sense. The crew of the Quest for Flavour would have to be ready for any situation. Any situation at any time.

 And with that thought, his nervousness turned to excitement. The ladybug cleaner bot did say it was a secret. But that was probably for his sake. It didn't say that he couldn't get help. So Fiddlesticks had to play it sly. He had to get help without it looking like he's being assisted, for that would give away his secret mission. Such a ploy would take a Machivellian mastermind. A mind that Fiddlesticks fancied he had but never really demonstrated before. But, Fiddlesticks thougt to himself, it will be soon. This was his time to shine. A mischievous grin spread across his devious face beneath his cunning eyes.

Fiddlesticks took one more scoop of ice cream but, to nobody's surprise but his own, it was all gone. He must've ate it all whilst coming up with his devious plan. Another habit of his, but a good one though. He called them his tasty schemes. Fiddlesticks found that he could plan and remember better if he ate his favourite food while he schemed. Fun berry ice cream being one of them. Food and Fiddlesticks went together like Holmes and Watson. The success of said schemes though, was another story entirely. One that lead to many hilarious and embarrassing outcomes. But when they worked, they really worked.

An awkward silence of an unknown length of time later, Fiddlesticks piped up with a request. "At the party on Ofromia, could you stay close to me? I may need you.". Fiddlesticks gave Toony his best puppy dog eyes look.

[Assistant]
The Engine did it's thing, carefully jetting out just the right amount of Unreal to propel it through the layer of stuff that kept our galaxy (voted "Best Galaxy of the Year" every year since the prize itself was announced) separate from another galaxy that theoretically existed. Navigating through the Unreal was a delicate process, partly because of the mathematics involved in actually reaching your destination, but mostly because staring out the window to check where you were gave most people a blinding headache. There were all sorts of things that could go wrong too, a flask failure in an engine could see an entire ship flooded with the super-dense material of the Unreal, sinking the ship and damning the crew to a life of something quite unspeakable. The bubble of Real could burst. Space madness could set in. The coffee machine could stop working. Pirates could strike. A miscalculation could see a ship reappear dangerously close to a star, or uncomfortably close to an ex-boyfriend or, in the case of Stellar Whales, both.

Fortunately for the crew of the Quest for Flavour, none of these terrible things, or any other terrible thing really, happened as they breached the divide from the Unreal to the Real. From the outside looking in, the ship squeezed itself out through an invisible crack and wobbled slightly before seeming, well, real once more. For those inside the ship, there'd be a loud "pop!" and space outside would look normal as the protective bubble bursts. The Engine went back to sleep, letting red-hot components cool. A few of the marshmellows that the Bees had left on sticks nearby the Engine for just this moment began to brown.

The ship appeared a mostly-safe distance away from the planet of Ofromia. It was swelteringly close to the star of the same name. The original inhabitants weren't particularly inventive when it came to naming, so "Ofromia" refers to the sole inhabited planet, the whopping great big star it orbits, the two satellites that orbit the planet, the main continent of the planet and it remained one of the most popular family names on the planet, until Governor Ofromia introduced "Ofromia's Law #53527", which assigned families new names to stop the confusion. Even from a respectful distance out, you could see (if you cared to look), the giant dome that covered the capital city, Ofromia. It was big. Larger than it had any right to be, really. Striped with reflective panels and solar cells, it positively shone, and did a fairly good job of harvesting power to fuel whatever went on within the dome. Underneath the thin atmosphere, the rest of the planet seems rather underdeveloped - a few settlements here and there, but no sign of anything like the great continent spanning cities of Londis IV, or really much of anything.

Ships came and went, a chain of commerce and tourism that connected Ofromia with the rest of the civilised galaxy. A few artificial satellites hung in orbit of Ofromia (the planet), most of them festooned with solar cells to harvest power from Ofromia (the star). The local ship manufacturer mirrored Ofromian cultural sensibilities, and so nearly every other ship was a long, sleek looking thing with gentle curves and over-stuffed leather seating. If there was a military presence, or even a police presence, guarding the space around the planet, it was very well hidden indeed.

The speakers dotted about the ship crackled into life. The familiar voice of the AI rang out through the corridors, though it did sound as if it was distracted by something. Considering the state of the AI, this probably made it sound even more familiar to those who had spent any time with it.

"Crew to the bridge, crew to the bridge, we're back, in the, uh, I mean, we're at Ofromia, there's... uh, not a problem, just, uh, to the bridge, crew to the bridge, they're wanting to communicate..."

The bridge was a badly curated museum of technological wonders accquired from across the galaxy. From the bleeding-edge technology used in the seat warmer of the pilot's chair to the rather out-of-date weapons control system, it was a small miracle that any of it could function alongside any other thing. There was a knack to it, of course, because getting a NaviComp developed by a species of sentient dogs to talk to a scanner cobbled together by Engineer-Monks of the Blind Brotherhood wasn't always easy unless you routed the information through the set of wireless-enabled fuzzy dice. This, at least, explained why nobody had got rid of the fuzzy dice. Of all the bizarre and wonderful technology on the bridge, none was more bizarre or wonderful than the communication system. It was a red telephone, with a rotary dialler. Wires connected it to various other things within the bridge, and quite how it functioned was something of a mystery. A post-it note attached to the side of the telephone reminded users that you'd need to "Dial 9 For Outside Line".

And now, on the bridge, the telephone was ringing.


[System]
Title: The Lord of the Rising Sun
Age: 34
Height: 7'2"
Weight: 499 pounds
Race: Human
Class: Warrior
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Eye Color: Hazel

Appearance: Pure unadulterated muscle. Lean muscle that ripples under his flesh like the waves of the ocean. He has muscles on his muscles. Feet Muscles. Finger muscles. Muscles in places that muscles should not be. A grisly body resembling tanned granite that might as well have been chistled by the gods. Bulging veins, thick and course. Tendons like steel cords. Fingers like blunt iron rods. Long, sinewy limbs crafted for naught but the deliverance of phenomenal destruction. Innumerable scars in all shapes and sizes coat his body. There are hundreds upon hundreds. Where the scars did not cover him, coarse manly hair thick and strong like steel wool does. A great dark gray beard speckled with the blood and bone flakes of his foes flows down his freakishly striated chest in thick, oily waves reminiscent of the River Styx. From it emanates the very stench of death and graverot, every bit as inescapable as his lurid glare. Within the primordial human's single eye burns an undying flame, sizzling hotter than the arse-winds of Satan himself.

Weapons and Equipment: His body, occasionally a set of thick six kilo runite (a foreign metal of nigh-indestructible toughness) bracers and a pair of dragon gauntlets (a metal that is a tier above runite, also almost indestructible). He often wears the "Tzhaar-Kal-Ket" (runescape.wikia.com/wiki/Fire_cape), an incredibly rare and magical cloak bestowed upon those few in history who have triumphed over the brutal challenges of the volcano-dwelling Tzhaar. It is impervious to flame and incredibly durable. He also always keeps an enchanted "Inoculation Brace" (runescape.wikia.com/wiki/Inoculation_b..) on his ankle.

Physical Abilities/Skills: Regarded in his home realm as the greatest martial artist and warrior to have ever lived, Gonad boasts tremendous dynamic and static strength as well as the primal grace and speed of a wild animal. He fights through experience and instinct, capable of reacting to attacks through muscle memory before he consciously registers them. Gonad is the supreme master of his own body, and can control its functions at will. He can enter into berserk states, constrict blood vessels to keep from losing fluids, and transmit senses other than sight through his visual cortex along with a plethora of other abilities.
His tolerance for pain is complete and unyielding, and Gonad witholds a vast array of rare and lethal wisdom to the point of being said to know of over one-thousand ways to kill with his bare hands.

(An example of Gonad's strength)

Weaknesses: Gonad lacks ranged weapons and is completely devoid of any magical skill or energy. He is, as they say, a One Trick Pony.

Background: Gonad is a legendary warrior who hails from the realm of Gielinor, a faraway land entrenched in fantasy and warfare. He has seen countless wars, killed countless enemies, made countless friends. To recount the barbarian's many adventures would be an exercise in futility, for the blood wrought odyssey of Gonad transcends time and experience. Though if requested, a Wikia link to said background shall be provided.

[User]
Though his left eye was indeed missing, Gonad made up for it in countless ways. Perfect spatial awareness, heightened hearing, decades of experience, the ability to transmit senses other than sight through his visual cortex...
Ah but, he could also just turn his head. Gonad allowed Daniel to draw near to his left flank, but little else. He'd shift his weight to his left foot, bend his knees slightly, and take a rapid step in the knight's direction right before he slashed. Mayhaps Daniel had his shield in place, expecting the barbarian to block the sword with a bracer and retaliate with a strike. Nothing so crude.

It would be as Gonad twisted his upper body towards Daniel, left hand flashing out not to block the blade but grab the outer side of the shield (on the knight's left) that the thing which had been off would become apparent. Yes, the hulking man had immense strength and weight. Such that he would attempt to jerk the shield with overwhelming vehemence into the path of the slash, possibly turning Daniel's entire body off course like how a model figurine's entire body is turned when you pull an arm. Yes, he had speed, but no more than Daniel had at the moment.

No, the problem with the situation was that Gonad was also devilishly, deviously, terrifyingly smart. At the same time he tried to use the knight's own shield against him, Gonad would have also been quite particular (and subtle) about precisely where his size 24 left boot landed. Which would be upon Daniel's own left foot, intended to pin him in place and throw off his forward momentum, ruining balance and limiting defensive options. It might be easy to miss this trick, given how the knight had also the barbarian's upper body to watch.

And even if the monstrous warrior missed that, he had yet another ulterior motive. Whilst twisting to wrench the passing man's shield into the path of his blade, Gonad's gnarly right hand, easily larger than a catcher's mitt, would shortly after dart forth like a viper to slap a lightning underhanded grip upon the knight's left bicep.

[Assistant]
Faster than he expected, more brutal than he realized, the giant reacted like the rise of a tempest. Before Daniel had time to fully execute his assault, his opponent moved with supreme coordination, manipulating his tremendous bulk like a deadly artist to halt the knight's advance. Daniel planted himself at the speed of superhuman reflex to block the barbarian's strike, but the telling glint in the warrior's single eye threatened far more than the directionless flailing of a beast. In that space between seconds, Daniel understood that even coming out as far as this open field had been a mistake-- Daniel had been baited forward, and the man before him was truly a fisherman.

No time to breathe, only space to react. Objects and force.

Daniel's well honed senses enabled him to take in the barbarian's attack in full, maintaining the slim window of opportunity he'd opened by making the first move. As his opponent closed in, Daniel shifted his left foot behind him and brought his shield to bear, exactly where it was expected to be. Though he caught the grapple on his shield as intended, shifting his left foot back enabled him to avoid being stomped on by fractions. A followup from the towering warrior came in the form of a snake-like catch to the left tricep, and in that moment when the viper reared it's head, Daniel pressed forward.

The knight shifted his weight forward again and twisted his body as the barbarian's clutch darted into his space, positioning his stance at a profile behind his sword such that he could place the tip of the blade just under the warrior's chin, balancing the edge of the blade at the collarbone. Daniel allowed the grapple purchase, and he found his left arm thoroughly bound to allow his sword within his opponent's guard. This was the turning point. Should the hulking warrior attempt to make good on a throw, a lock, a break, Daniel was fully prepared to pull the trigger on the explosive he had primed and attached to the back of his shield before the engagement. As things stood, the explosive charge was all but resting against the barbarian's right forearm. It would be a blast to leave craters in concrete-- even with the proper preparations, an explosion like that could snap Daniel's arm like a twig. Like this, at point blank range, the target basically hugging the bomb? It might mean that the knight would have to trade one arm for two.

Daniel gripped the detonator tightly as he exhaled. If the barbarian meant to pull away, somehow sensing the danger of the situation, Daniel could thrust his blade true and end the warrior's life; no matter how muscled he may have been, it would prove difficult to continue fighting through a severed jugular. If the warrior pressed forward in his assault, then Daniel need only press the button, and both the duel and their arms would be left up in the air. Finally, the strongest deterrent-- if this warrior gave Daniel room for words, then the battle may end peacefully. What was more, if there would be even a brief pause in the combat, locked in struggle as they were, the warrior may have been able to detect the knight's stomach growling.

"Thou art a brave fighter. Prithee warrior, thine name?" Daniel intoned, his breaths measured for movement, "Further violence need not solve our quarrel. If thou wouldst desist in fishing, together we might sate our hunger."

[User]
Gonad had expected the knight to bring up his blade. After all, there were only so many options one could execute from such a position and the Lord of the Rising Sun had seen them all (except the explosive shield bit). Unlike the gun-toting, spell-flinging combatants from most universes, Gonad had come from a realm where shields and swords were not only common, but used by virtually every able-bodied humanoid in the country. Yes, even children. It wasn't a very safe or sane place. Regardless, he was pleasantly surprised to see that his opponent more than matched up to the elite Spartan-like warriors of Gielinor. Gonad duly noted that Daniel's small body contained much more power in it than most.

Gonad would release his grip upon the shield the moment he had seized the knight's bicep, snapping his left forearm up to smack away the blade as it darted towards his chin before attempting to roughly jerk the knight closer whilst slipping behind him (maintaining that grip on the shield arm), the general idea being to get at the fellow's back. Even if Daniel's strength could match Gonad's, his lesser body weight wouldn't allow him to easily resist. If Gonad were able to reach this position, then he himself would pause so as to allow conversation. Gonad too had a secret weapon that he preferred not to use. A remorseless technique, mocked and parodied by many but rarely understood for the true lethal impetus it possessed. The German Suplex. Often deadly if used by a common man. Mortal transience incarnate when used by Gonad. Whether or not he succeeded in his positioning, Gonad would still bellow out a boisterous answer to the man's words. He really didn't seem to have an indoor voice.

"Gonad Yaksplitter be name of such. Many times tricked by smarties has Gonad been, but never twice in row! But trusting be heart of Gonad and first always will brotherhood come before doubt! HRAH!!

Upon concluding this reply the large man would release Daniel and step back. If the knight spoke the truth, then chances are the match would end in a draw due to both warriors being so damned friendly.

[Assistant]
Both warriors made their decision. Within mere instants of completing his grapple, the barbarian's arm flashed out to deflect Daniel's blade. A Cold War second passed-- enough time for the knight to press the button, cause an explosion, mutually assure destruction.

And yet.

Though the positioning of his strike had been upset, Daniel's resolve remained stalwart, and he brought his own strength to bear. As soon as Gonad released the lip of his shield, Daniel was moving to extriate himself from the steely grasp of the seasoned veteran before him. The knight whipped his shield arm down and out, fully intending to shock his opponent with ferocious strength. While his lack of bulk would mean that he couldn't upset his opponent's grasp completely, it would allow him escape on his own terms. Daniel was jerked forward as the barbarian moved to flank; all Daniel had to do was follow through. At any rate, it would be a poor showing if any opponent could get behind the Shield of Columbia.

The exchange between minds occurred in miliseconds, the movement of bodies was, to untrained eyes, simultaneous. Just as the warrior moved to flank, the knight would make a superhuman leap forward, breaking free of the hold and landing in a roll some four or five meters away, to come to a stop crouched with the shining tower of his riot shield facing his opponent. If there be quiet now, Daniel's voice would pierce the wind grazing the iron trees of Wotan's Forest.

"Thou art a brave fighter. Prithee warrior, thy name?" Daniel anounced, his voice clear from behind his shield, "Further violence need not solve our quarrel. If thou wouldst desist in fishing, together we might sate our hunger."

"Gonad Yaksplitter be name of such. Many times tricked by smarties has Gonad been, but never twice in row! But trusting be heart of Gonad and first always will brotherhood come before doubt! HRAH!!"

At this Daniel of Columbia put aside his shield, and stood proud to face as mighty a warrior as Gonad Yaksplitter. If it would be a wrong to see an enemy behind his shield, it would be doubly so to find a friend in front of it. With his shield arm Daniel patted his pack, looking for his store of rations.

He found none.

At this dilemma, the knight froze in indecision. It was a breach of character for any man to offer food without presenting the plate, as much a failing on Daniel's part had he forgotten his shield. He wracked his mind twice as fast as he had done in combat, faster, twice as desperate for an out as when he was willing to blow his own arm off, no, more desperate.

Daniel strode to the edge of the lake, paused before the "no fishing" sign, and cleaved it clean in two. He sheathed his sword at this, and nodded at Gonad, before attempting to immitate the barbarain's movements in snatching a fish with his hands.

[User] And so ended a fight both very short and anticlimactic. Hmm? Boring, you people say? Shut up, not every dispute between metahumans ends in bloodshed. As the knight went over to the water, Gonad crossed his arms and nodded with sagely approval at the defilation of the clearly offensive sign. Why, if any bloke could just plant a piece of board marking ownership over something, what sort of world would it be? Surely one of greed and people running about with signs and shit. Who needed 'em. Whilst Daniel fished, Gonad started making a barbarian style fire. That is to say, he didn't really know how to make a fire so he just picked up a pointy little stick to poke the poopy guts out with. Sushi tonight baby.


[System]
Age: 21
Gender: Male

Appearance: Al's taller than average, with decent muscle tone, but his long body makes him look leaner. His hair is a messy, unkempt mop of muddy brown hair, and his facial features are surprisingly soft. Albeit, he's usually got a bruise or bandage marring them.
His dress style is pretty comfy; he mostly wears loose fitting traveler pants and tightly belted boots, with a wool sweater and dingy hooded longcoat up top. His right hand and lower arm is wrapped in bandages for better wrist support and also so he doesn't lose his grip. On his back he typically keeps one to four large greatswords, of varied make, kept in a sling. He made a necklace out of a a beast's fang, and wears it as a lucky charm.

Weapons/Belongings: Al's weapon of choice is the greatsword, and he's currently carrying four of them. If one breaks or gets tossed, he has a handy backup. These particular ones are made of steel, but he's not picky when it comes to replacements.
Additionally, he has a wallet containing a small amount of money and a hunting knife on his belt, and a rucksack containing rations, a flint, a bottle of extraordinarily strong liquor, a torch, and a length of rope tied to a rock.

Magic PHYSICAL SKILLS: Al is strong - much stronger than his frame would even suggest; he spent his youth wrestling animals for fun, when he wasn't toiling away with hard labor. He's durable to boot, and has a frighteningly high pain tolerance. One can only wonder how many concussions he's received.
Naturally, his self-taught fighting style takes advantage of this, and focuses on Al throwing his momentum around to deliver maximum impact haymakers. Drop kicks are common, as are wild punches, suplexes, and throwing whatever's handy, up to and including the enemy. Additionally, Al carries around several greatswords, since he finds their length and mass are good for slinging around. Also he thinks they're cool.

Personality: Al is by all means a kind, well-meaning person, with an understanding of the importance of friendship. He just happens to have a wild streak, and that streak just happens to be rather good at hitting stuff really hard.
He's not so much caught up in a balance between right and wrong as he is between right and fun. This poor impulse control, combined with a poor danger sense, inevitably means he's often the first to dive into a dangerous area or do something stupid for fun. It's great in a dangerous line of work, though.

Short History: It's not precise to say Al's forgotten his past due to amnesia. It is, however, accurate to say he's forgotten where it is. However, when growing up, he was always considered a strong boy, even in a rural community where the pastime was wrestling wild animals. Al, however, couldn't be content living a life of mostly farming and whiling away the hours on the porch. He was the sort of child who liked to wander. One day, the year he became a man, he wandered a bit too far, and ever since then has gotten increasingly lost. Determined not to let that get him down, the then fifteen year old began a new life, the life of an adventurer, sellsword, and treasure hunter.
As of late, Al's heard rumor of some strange happenings going on in the north. In his line of work, that's a business opportunity. Not one to scorn the idea of magic, he'd rather see it as a potential job offer. Even if nobody payed him to go there, they might be interested in any loot he brought back. And so, the swordsman trekked into the harsh tundra, ready to meet with any challenge the unknown might throw his way.

[User]
Elizabeth sighed. Essentially, they'd been told they were all going to die, seemingly a recurring theme from Cross. Still, he, and his daughter, had given them some information. She didn't much like the thought of dealing with roaming cannibals or packs of wolves, but the implication behind the mysterious creatures Cross had mentioned made her nervous. The woman quietly hoped that they would manage to avoid the giants altogether if at all possible. She had seen all she needed to of the lord's bodyguards to be certain such creatures would be a problem. Obviously, the ones in the Wastes, if there were any, wouldn't be as well armed or armored, but a mountain of muscle and savagery was the last thing she wanted to run into in the middle of nowhere. Her thoughts were interrupted as Sage spoke up. She was right, if they were going to work together, it would help to know at least names. The conversation went around the table, with each member of the party introducing themselves. The dog-girl seemed quite excited, though Elizabeth still was a bit perplexed by her, that confusion only growing when she brought up some fighting style. Elizabeth quietly chalked this up as a form of magic, something to watch out for. Four swords, who had now revealed his name as Al, had continued on in his typical fashion. Lexine replied last, only giving her name and support. As she finished talking, Elizabeth sat up in her chair, clearing her throat. "My name is Elizabeth Tosli. I agree, it would be best for us to set out at dawn." The woman rose from her seat, leaving a half-eaten plate. "In the meantime, I suppose it would be best to enjoy the last bit of civilization we have left."

 Noah had been happily munching away at his meal while listening to Cross. The information didn't frighten him, in fact, he only grew more excited as the dangers began to stack against them. After the lord had finished, everyone began introducing themselves. Noah finished off a roll before replying cheerfully. "I'm Noah, Noah Kass. I hope we can all become friends." The boy smiled for a moment before turning to Haruka. "The Fist Through Which the Sun Breaks? What is that?" He pasued for a moment, trying to find the best way to ask his next question. "And... um... Your ears. Have you always been like that?" He spoke a bit sheepishly. After all, he'd never met someone with dog ears, and he wasn't certain if the girl was subconscious about them. He also found himself shocked that a person could eat pine bark, much less threes pounds of it.

 Elizabeth nodded to Noah, letting him know she was leaving for the time being. She doubted he was in any serious danger in the castle, at least for the moment. The woman crossed the floor, her cane clinking softly against the marble as she made her way to the door. The great iron gateway opened with a creak, and she felt the cold Grisian wind blow whip across her face. It was mid afternoon, though the sun seemed to set early in Gris. She wondered how much daylight they had left as she walked out into the courtyard. The marketplace was something worth looking into. Even if Cross was supplying them, there might be a few particulars worth looking for.

[Assistant]
Haruka listened attentively at the introductions of the others. Haruka liked strawberries and fighting things, so she bet she would get along well with Al. Not many others gave much more than their names, which was a shame because Haruka wanted to know more about her new traveling companions. The young one, however, seemed talkative enough. Haruka smiled wide, and her tail began wagging vigorously as the child showed an interest in her. Finally, a cohort that was younger than she was! All her life everyone was always her senior, especially the monks, but this time Haruka was the big one! She would surely deposit much of her senior knowledge onto this boy, and he would learn well from her.

"Hello, Noah! Yes, The Fist Through Which the Sun Breaks is name of a martial art I do," replied Haruka excitedly, "It sounds much nicer in my normal speaking, but still it makes the body much strong! Is very complicated to explain, but I can do much exciting things."

Haruka had to ponder a bit on the second question, but seemed to give up a couple of seconds in and reply.

"Yes, yes, I have always been this way! I have not met others who have the ears and the tail, but the monks tell me I may be a good omen. A child of the sun goddess, that was sent to them for faith! I am not so much special, I think, but I am glad! Monks are very nice peoples!"

Then, with the widest, most self-aggrandizing grin the dog girl could muster up, she added, "You seem good, so if you are in trouble, you can ask me advices! I am your senior, so please relying on me! Much wise I am being."

Haruka proudly stuffed more meat into her mouth.

[User]
Lexine sat forward in her chair, looking over the grand assortment of food they'd been gifted one last time. Just as she'd been walking in, she still wasn't hungry. The others around the table continued the chain of introduction, and between bouts of vying with her lack of an appetite she took in what she could about the others. Elizabeth and Noah were still some sort of enigmatic to her, although she was getting tired of repeating to herself that this kind of work took all sorts. Haruka Taiyo, on the other hand, explained her being with such an encouraging radiance that it almost entirely slipped Lexine's mind that she was regarding a dog-eared martial artist who was here to play the information market. Every fiber of her being told her to doubt and disbelieve a cover given so freely, but she couldn't. Haruka was just like Al in that regard, she realized. The two of them were so fully earnest that she could only accept such cheery people had ended up on the same path as the rest of them. As long as she didn't have to listen to too much of it, she could even continue to appreciate their light. A slight smile crossed Lexine's face as she stood up and away from the table. It was time for her to get moving. Her knees stung as she went to her feet, but they'd acclimate quickly. If nothing else, the kid was starting to ask too many questions, and she could get going while they were still being directed to Haruka.
"That's good," she said after Haruka's offer to Noah. "We're all a team now, so the same goes for me." She looked over her shoulder, back at the now emptied throne room. Alec hadn't left them a guide or a guard, which surely meant they were only being watched in secret. As she turned back around, her eyes went over the others present. Settling on Al and Haruka to let them know she was referring to them as well. "If any trouble starts up, come find me." Her smile continuing, Lexine made to walk off before anything else happened. She'd had a couple minutes to sit and recollect herself, there were a few things that needed to be taken care of before she left. Anything to carry their baggage was out of the question at that point, but now that fighting was assuredly ahead of them she'd need a set of gloves. All of hers were still sitting in some hotel somewhere, unused and pretty much useless in the Grisian climate anyway. As soon as she was free of the castle, she turned towards the marketplace and set off with head hung low and hands buried in her coat. With any luck, the others could finish their business at the keep without and she could resupply without incident. That was a futile hope, she knew. Half of them were troublemakers and she herself could have been the worst, as not merely a thug, but a thug with bad luck.

[Assistant]
Noah listened to Haruka's explanations with wide-eyed intrigue. The boy was practically a sponge for information. He had always enjoyed learning, regardless of the subject, that was why he was going on this journey in the first place, after all. For such an inquisitive soul, an interesting individual like Haruka was a godsend. "Martial arts, huh? You should show me it at some point. If it's not a secret, or anything." Noah took a bite from a green apple on the table. It was quite sour, much more so than he'd expected, and his lips instinctively curled at the abuse of his taste buds. "I've never met someone like you either, but who knows, it's a big world out there, maybe you have family somewhere!" The boy's optimism seemed to emanate from every fiber of his being. He smiled when Haruka volunteered her help if he was in trouble. "Thank you! I can't do much to repay your kindness I'm afraid, but... hmm... I can cook! So maybe I can repay you in food." The boy's eyes left Haruka for a moment as Lexine spoke up. "Yes, we're a team." He beamed. "Will do. Hopefully there won't be any here though." The boy laughed, waving to Lexine as she left the room before turning back to Haruka. "So I was thinking of looking around the castle a bit, and possibly going by the library. Would you like to come along?" He turned in his seat. "That goes for everyone, of course, if any of you want to look around." He motioned around the table.

 Elizabeth had set about her business, walking around the marketplace in search of anything that might be useful in their journey. Outside of the occasional odd look from one of the locals, the process had been rather uneventful thus far. Still, markets caused a faint nervousness in the pit of her stomach. Perhaps it was a residual feeling from her earliest days as a street urchin. After all, in those days the market had represented both risk and reward. As it stood, though, she wasn't here to steal anything, so the feelings inside of her were little but an inconvenience. Her scanning of the marketplace was interrupted as she saw another figure leaving the castle. Upon closer inspection, she came to the conclusion it was Lexine. She had said very little about herself, and was one of the people Cross had referred to as a 'professional'. The blonde woman turned, meeting her new compatriot at the market's entrance. "Looking to do a little shopping out here as well?" She leaned against her cane, looking the woman over. "You're Lexine, right?"

[User]
Al's normal human ears twitched as he caught wind of a future meal.
"You mean you'll just pay people in food to punch stuff?" he asked, walking over to Noah. "Or better yet, to show you how to punch stuff?"

"...I'm pretty sure large cities usually have martial arts schools. You could learn fencing. Or spearing." he explained. "Actually there's probably manuals on that in the library. Or better yet..."
He nodded at the boy, then Haruka. "There might be books on treasure in the library. Treasure we can use to buy food. Or more swords. Or even... that." he stared into the distance.

"Let's go to the library."


[System]
Codename: Runner

Color Scheme: 0054a6 a0410d

Age: Early thirties

Gender: Male

Personality:
* Industrious
* Stubborn
* Maverick
* Relentless
* Chain-smoker

Short Biography:

Once upon a time, there was a talented Agent rising through the ranks of the Prohibitum. Jiangli Lao made waves straight out of the academy as he brought down several criminal mages and Painstakers in his rookie year alone.

After a few more years of distinguished service, Jiangli was fast-tracked into a special response unit for magical incidents too much for Policus or individual Agents to handle.

The special response team's first and only mission was an unmitigated disaster. What had thought to be a turf war between Painstakers of rival criminal organizations escalated into an utter bloodbath as a battle between a large nightmare and several Cleaners spilled onto the battle and added to the chaos.

Faced with a battle on multiple fronts, Jiangli's captain made the order to focus on the Painstakers, despite the threat of the Nightmare tearing its way through Cleaners, Painstakers, and fellow Agents alike. Jiangli followed orders nevertheless and withdrew with the rest of his squad once the Painstakers were neutralized, leaving the weakened Cleaners to endure the nightmare's assault, but protested to his superiors upon returning to headquarters. However, the higher-ups determined that the captain had made the right call in the situation.

Jiangli was incensed. Why couldn't they see that the nightmares were a threat equivalent to or even greater than any Painstaker? Rogue mages could at least reason; nightmares were utter beasts set on nothing but destruction. With no hope of support from the Magus Prohibitum, Jiangli abandoned the Agent ranks and set off in search of a way to track down and join the Cleaners.

Magic Style:

Temporal Distortion
Jiangli's personal brand of chronomancy revolves around creating localized fields of temporal distortion that either accelerate or drastically slow down anything that passes through them, allowing him to bypass a mage's PRF so long as they physically touch the field that he erects. His distortions take the form of runic circles drawn in the air, and any physical object that passes through one is affected by his chronomancy. Jiangli typically prefers to use fields of acceleration while on the offensive, while decelerating attacks on the defensive.

Membership: One year

Equipment:

Heavyware Raptor Suit Mk. 8 - A well-balanced armored exoskeleton designed to be adaptable to most battlefields. Provides a happy medium of speed and protection compared to light and heavy armor lines.

Serrated Motor Blade - A sword with motorized, serrated blades that run along the edge of the blade. In other words, a chainsword. The blade is a Thremont prototype with a motor powered by will alone. Taken by Jiangli years ago as a battle trophy during his days as an Agent.

Heavyware Executor EMT - The precursor to the Punisher model, but still preferred over the Punisher by veteran marksmen. More difficult to use than the Punisher, with only a ten round magazine and a heavier frame, but fires a larger caliber to compensate. Fires HE, AP, and subsonic ammunition.

Relationships:

End
Fellow pistol aficionado. Socializes on a semi-regular basis with her, bonding over their shared love of heavy pistols and mutual disgust of Advent's creations.

Voice
A tragic soul. Jiangli's not particularly bothered by the implants. He'd seen worse during his time as an Agent, and from much nastier people at that.

Advent
No. Just fucking no. Jiangli knew he'd be working with Painstakers when he signed up, but this tests his limits. If the threat of Nightmares wasn't the only thing keeping the group together, he would have brought this sick bastard in months ago.

Warthog
Respects him as a veteran with a damn sight more field experience than his own. Sticks to a professional relationship.

Zer0
A nice kid, but too young to be doing this kind of thing. Wish she'd get off his ass about the smoking, though. He needs his vices.

Hex
Tolerable. Jiangli doesn't show it, but he's still slightly hesistant to work with Painstakers after so long as a Prohibitorium Agent. Still, it wasn't as if he could fault her for developing magical abilities without warning. Hopefully she manages to stay outside of the law's reach while still a Cleaner.

Character Impressions:

Theme Song:

[User]
Each page that Gerard saw was the work of a true artist. Every word he read held the infinite passion only a genius could intertwine. Truthfully, the book he read was complete drivel; it was nothing more than the maddened ramblings of the rich eccentrics who had saw their life as a blessing on other people. Gerard had a certain disdain for these people, but their works were interesting, to say the least.

The book managed to be readable through the muted light of an old lamp. Even though the room had large lights able to illuminate even the darkest of crevices, he preferred them off. At his old age, the bright lights hurt his ancient eyes more than they helped.

Quiet rumblings interrupted his lonesome reading. It wasn't unheard of for Cafe Thaza to become unruly. They were a rather mixed bag of people, after all. Despite this, Gerard decided to see what was happening. No matter what was happening, it was sure to be more tasteful than the book he was reading.

Gerard placed the collection of parchment down on his worn-out desk and turned off what little source of light he had in his room. He left the wooden chair he sat on and grabbed his cane. He left towards B1, hobbling each step of the way.

To his surprise and worriment, there was someone on a couch bleeding rather profusely. Gerard, despite seeing these things often, was always disheartened by those types of sights. It didn't help that Doc was in charge of healing the boy, nor did it help that a few of Doc's things were in the room with them.

His worries were slightly alleviated when he saw End helping the boy. For her to do such a thing was entirely new. He approached to thank her, but when she asked for credits, he stopped. Well, End was 50% of the way to becoming a good person. That was good enough for him.

He walked past the two of them and met face to face with the older gentleman. From his pocket, he pulled out three credsticks. Each one had around one hundred credits on them. After all, it wasn't the first time End did something like this. It was always nice to have something to deal with her demands.

"So," Gerard said to the man as he held out the credsticks towards him, "would you mind telling us what happened to the boy?"

[Assistant]
A yawn escaped Vivian as she continued her grind to the max level of Ultimate Fantasy XXXIII. While it was clearly handy to not rely on any devices herself and 'experience' the wide web in a fashion that had yet to come, the too-young girl condoned the use of cheating - thus, making her rely on mortal means to actually achieve her goals in this game.

Regardless, Vivian wouldn't play such a game if she wasn't addicted to it didn't have fun with it. Or maybe, she just felt... more not caring than usual? It hasn't even been a month since Gramps died, leaving her more-or-less alone. Since then, most of what Vivian did was lazing around in her room and experience the wonders of the world wide web; incidentally also giving up on a few projects she had going for herself.

It was, however, already a progress that Warthog managed to make the girl hang out in B1 again rather than locking herself up in her room. Right now, she really do anything to further the silent promise she had made to Gramps, but maybe it was for the better. In fact, Vivian actually did consider to quit what she was currently doing and instead earn her money by legal means through stock exchange. Ultimately however, Vivian felt way too lazy about that... and somewhere deep she didn't even mind dying. Heck, she could even visit her own Tombstone if she wanted to.

It was then that the more-or-less peaceful silence of the living room she was in got disrupted by Mom and two strangers - one clearly hurt. It wasn't an unusual sight, but enough that it always reconfirmed Vivi of still caring about others. A good thing in the end. Still, Vivian couldn't do much to help, and returning to her game while also paying attention to what was going on in the room now the purple haired girl did what she was always doing if she had the chance: Silently using her power for the sake of good fortune. If he was to die through a simple gunshot, then his chances had to be really, really shitty.

It was only after the freakish doctor, who had a weird pet with her, and the stone-cold Cleaner called End - which behaviour saddened her - entered the room that Vivian finally paid more attention to the turmoil at hand, ultimately even standing up from the couch she was lying on only to hide close to Warthog. Her curiosity was clearly piqued for whatever reason.

[User]
Elizabeth Carmine was still settling in at Cafe Thaza. After the complete and total demolition of the entire living block she had stayed at before, she was beyond thankful how her new job offer came with a place to temporarily stay at. Though, from what she had seen in the few days of her stay here, the term "temporary" was being taken rather liberal by some of the occupants of this place. Though she suspected that the people "Mom" allowed to become long-time tenants payed their rent in a currency known as "protection".

And what a weird bunch that was, Hex thought as she closed the door to her claustrophobia-inducingly small room. Rearranging arrays of notes on a small digital notepad, she slowly made her way down the corridor. A list of rituals and incantations flew across the screen, statistics and news about what was currently happening in the area tagged as "read later", numerous items on a long "shopping list" crossed off or removed. Lost in though, she shuffled towards what was a living area of sorts. Nobody else seemed active right now in this part of the building, although she could hear muffled voices from behind some of the doors. Somewhere, somebody laughed hysterically. Or maybe it was crying. The young woman didn't care enough to find out.

Instead, she approached the living room, which apparently had just become the scene of a medium-sized commotion. Hex saw a couple of the other cleaners gathering around some wounded kid, and immediately got out of the way. Neither was she decently educated to be of any help here, nor did she possess the skill set necessary. Seeing "Mom" and Warthog made her swallow the comment her tongue immediately had come up with. Something about kitchen heat and eating bullets. She dodged one of the Doc's pets, which reminded her of a more adorable, smaller Glav. She hadn't seen this one before and resisted the urge to pet it, what with the inappropriateness that'd display in regards this bleeding idiot everyone cared so much about.

As she silently let herself slide onto an armchair in the opposite corner of where the patient was being worked on, she only just noticed Zer0 hiding behind the big guy, as if she expected bullet-wound-kid to explode like a grenade any second now. Hex wondered how many of the bystanders there were actually, genuinely interested in helping, and who was just there to show off their awesome powers. How long she would have to live with these people before she'd start caring everytime some kiddo got shot in Neo Babylon. She pretended to be working on her notepad, but really she observed the assembled group, still trying to get a feel for their internal dynamics. Still far from feeling like an part of Cafe Thaza's community, instead of an intruder.

[Assistant]
A haze of cigarette smoke engulfed Cafe Thaza's smoking room. Jiangli casually flicked the ash from his cigarette into the ashtray next to him as he scrolled down to the next page of the book on the dataslate he was reading, as had been his routine for the past year. Considering he was a deserter of the Prohibitum, he rarely chanced going out into public when not on assignment, and his reading backlog had subsequently shortened drastically over the past year.

Just as he'd finished his current cigarette and was about to light his sixth one of the day, Jiangli shifted his gaze towards the hall, hearing some commotion come from it. He looked longingly at the unlit cigarette for a moment before setting it back into its box and tucking the box into his coat. Jiangli rose from his seat and headed out to see what the hell was going on outside.

When he arrived, the sight of Advent was almost enough to make him want to wash his hands of the entire situation and go back to his smoke. The sight of the woman actually being a medic instead of a defiler of flesh for once gave him pause, however, and he simply sidled up next to End, completely unsurprised to see her extorting a man for the healing of the boy.

"300 credits?" He asked wryly, one eyebrow rising. "That's almost charitable of you. What brought this on?"


[System]
Age: 13
Hometown: Blackthorn City
Appearance (pic preferred):
Starter: Mudkip
Bio: Liam dreamed of being a pokemon trainer like his father was once upon a time. He has a fondness for dragons. He dreamed of what the Dragon's Den would look like and hopes to one day be able to visit it. Liam traveled tough Kanto with Shiaranui. The two faced off in the final round of the tournament. When Liam was a baby, he had a babysitter, a Chansey named Florence. (She has evolved since Liam left on his journey.) A slip on a wet floor in the Pewter City Museum revealed that his hair is only dyed black. It was revealed in Blackthorn City, that he is the son of a Nurse Joy. He was as a random trainer called him when he was 5, "The shiny Pokémon of humans." Liam also explained that he uses a special dye, that has Bluk Berries as a key ingredient.
 Liam participated in and won the first ever Dragon Cup in Blackthorn City, having teleported home for it with his shiny Alakazam, Sherlock. He has also mastered the Battle Chateau in Kalos.

Requested Legend(s): Rayquaza, Latios, Jirachi, Deoxys
and his rival:

Name: Trevor Walton
Age: 13
Hometown: Vermilion City
Appearance (pic preferred):
Starter: -
Bio: Trevor disliked Liam, he disliked Liam solely due to the fact that he felt inadequate, believing Liam is coincided by his looks and talent in training. During the trip though Kanto, Trevor more or less followed the path of Blue in the original games. Recently, Trevor has warmed up some to Liam and Shiranui. He still may not particularly like them, but he respects them as strong Pokemon Trainers.

[User]
The Grunts sent out a Poochyena and a Grimer. Steven's Metagross used Psychic and slammed Grimer into Poochyena and followed it up with Hyper Beam. They were both KO'd. Matt began to reach for another Pokéball when a sound emanated from elsewhere on the island. Latios emerged. He lifted them with Telekinesis and than used Dragon Pulse and sent the Aqua members flying.
 "Latios, the Eon Pokémon. Latios will only open its heart to a Trainer with a compassionate spirit. This Pokémon can fly faster than a jet plane by folding its forelegs to minimize air resistance. Latios has the ability to make others see an image of what it has seen or imagines in its head. This Pokémon is intelligent and understands human speech."

[Assistant] "Thank you so much, Latios," said Shiranui.

[User] The Eon Pokémon nodded at Shiranui and turned to Liam. Latios telepathically talked to the heroes saying that it has heard about the good deeds that they have done, and wants to come along with them. Latios then used Psychic and open Liam's pack. A Luxury Ball floated out and came over to the Lati. Late voluntarily entered the ball and it immediately snapped shut as it dropped to the ground.

[Assistant] "I wonder where the other one is," pondered Shiranui out loud.

[User] "Who knows?" Liam said. "I would think Latias would be nearby."

[Assistant] "Probably hiding in plain sight," added Shiranui, familiar with the notion.

[User] 'likely." Liam added.

[Assistant] "From what I read, Latias does have the ability to go invisible and disguise herself as other people," stated Shiranui.

[User] "Well, she could be spying on us." Liam commented.

[Assistant] "It would not surprise me if she's watching us right now," replied Shiranui. He knew how it felt to have his mind read and he wasn't feeling as such at the moment.

[User] "Well, we should probably get back to the mainland soon." Steven said.

[Assistant] "Indeed," Shiranui agreed.

[User] Steven called out his Metagross and take everyone back.

[Assistant] "Thanks Steven," said Shiranui, "We can take it from here."

[User] "One more thing," He said. He pulled out three Mega Stones. He explained that these stones coordinated to Hoenn's starters.

[Assistant] "That will come in handy," replied Shiranui, "Thanks."

[User] Liam took the Sceptilenite and Swampertitie.

[Assistant] Shiranui received the Blazikenite.

[User] "Well, I guess it is northward to Fortree." Liam said.

[Assistant] "Hopefully free of hassles," added Shiranui. He knew the Weather Institute was en route and had a nagging bad feeling about it.

[User] "Well, let's get a move on." Liam said.

[Assistant] Shiranui nodded and the heroes continued north.

[User] The heroes began to get closer to the weather institute. Unknown the the heroes, Team Magma had taken over the institute for their own purposes. Liam saw one of Magma's red copters fly overhead. While the heroes were investigating, a Magma grunt (Looker in disguise) came up behind them and attempted to cup his hands over there mouths and yank them backward behind some bushes where he revealed it was really him.

[Assistant] Shiranui felt relieved it was Looker that took them behind a bush instead of a real grunt, but was not impressed at being dragged away. "I assume you're here to investigate what Team Magma is doing," he stated.

[User] Looker confirmed that theory. He also made a comment that it seemed like the heroes had a knack for crossing paths with criminal organizations.

[Assistant] "Arceus must have a twisted sense of humour and this time won't be the last either," Shiranui remarked.

[User] "At any rate, we need to get inside the Institute." Looker stated. He tossed each of the heroes a Magma Grunt uniform that he took from other grunts he had knocked out.

[Assistant] "Thanks Looker," replied Shiranui, "Time to utilise the Ninjutsu Art of Disguise."

[User] Liam put his on. He was thinking that this was better than having to play this same game with Team Aqua. "Well, let's go in."

[Assistant] Shiranui nodded in agreement after donning his disguise.

[User]
Everyone made it into the institute without trouble. Magma grunts were all over.
 'And I thought Dark Cave had a Zubat problem." Liam muttered to Looker and Shiranui.

[Assistant] "I know how we can get past," replied Shiranui, "I just need to access the ventilation system."

[User] Looker noticed one of the vents in the corner and subtlety pointed it out to Shiranui.

[Assistant] "Everyone, cover your mouths and noses," warned Shiranui, "Kinoko, send a Spore into the vents!" He sent his Breloom out and Kinoko sent a Spore attack into the vent to be dispersed around the institute.

[User] An actual Grunt saw them over there with a Breloom. He quickly figured out they were imposters and was about to yell when the sores knocked him out. Magma grunts began to drop like flies.

[Assistant] Shiranui had a look of relief when the nearby grunt fell over. He passed Liam and Looker some cloths to breathe through. Kinoko stopped her attack and the heroes were eventually left with at least a room full of sleeping grunts and a haze of Spore.

[User] Liam stepped outside and sent out Pidgeot to go get Offcr Jenny from a nearby town. Liam triggered Mega Evolution, to hasten Pidgeot's travel.

[Assistant] Shiranui waited with Looker for Liam to return. He sent Zoro out and had the Zoroark disguise himself as an average-looking Magma grunt.

[User] In a few minutes, Mega Pidgeot returned with Jenny riding it. Liam tossed off the disguise, as Jennies tended to jump to conclusions. When Pidgeot landed and Jenny got off, Liam saluted her and praised Pidgeot who de-Mega Evolved and cooed before being recalled. Jenny said that the paddy wagon would be along shortly to apprehend Team Magma and in the mean time, she went around the institute, having her Spinnarak use its webs to tie up the Grunts. Liam returned to his friends. He skidded to a halt when he saw the Grunt (Zorro in disguise) and grabbed one of the balls off his belt, ready to battle.

[Assistant] "My master taught me well if I can fool our friends," the grunt stated before dropping his guise briefly.

[User] "Jenny is here, you may want to shed the disguises." Liam informed them.

[Assistant] "Will do," replied Shiranui, removing his disguise.

[User] Looker removed his as well right before Jenny barged into the room. Liam pulled out some smelling salts to wake up the people who worked at the institute.

[Assistant] "Whoever was running this operation must have bailed," Shiranui speculated.

[User] The workers of the institute thanked the heroes for saving them.

[Assistant] "You're welcome," replied Shiranui, "Incidentally, what would Team Magma want with this place?"

[User] The scientists that work at the institute said that they were working on a machine that could manipulate weather.

[Assistant] "It's just as well it didn't fall into the wrong hands," replied Shiranui. The scientists' statement had made Shiranui's speculations about the plans of Teams Aqua and Magma more and more likely to be true and that concerned him.

[User] Liam commented that they spent so much time focusing on the fact that they could do such as thing, and not enough on if they should do it.

[Assistant] "You do have a point, Liam," replied Shiranui, realising that the artificial tampering of a chaotic system could spell disaster if not done correctly.

[User] The scientist tried to make his argument about how much good such a device could do, but realized he would not sway the heroes.

[Assistant] "You can continue your research, but try to understand that your technology can be used for nefarious ends as well," continued Shiranui.

[User] "Should we move on?" Liam inquired.

[Assistant] "Yes," answered Shiranui, "Fortree City can't be that much further."

[User] The scientist confirmed it wasn't very far at all and gave directions.

[Assistant] "Thanks," replied Shiranui and with that the heroes left.

[User] Liam commented that he has heard of some towns, Fortree being one of them that holds special competitions exclusive to Pokémon who can fly or levitate.

[Assistant] "I've heard of them," replied Shiranui, "I have the perfect Pokémon for them."

[User] "Well, it will simply be one more thing for us to do in Fortree." Liam said. "But the contest happens first."

[Assistant] "Indeed," Shiranui agreed, "What do you want to bet that the gym leader Winona would be participating in one or both of those competitions?"

[User] "Seems very likely." Liam stated.

[Assistant] "By that logic, it would be unlikely that we would take her on at the gym for our first activity at Fortree City," continued Shiranui.

[User] "Yeah," Liam said as he looked at the sky. He estimated it would be nightfall by the time they arrived in Fortree, and the contest would be tomorrow.

[Assistant] That gave Shiranui time to think of what appeals he would do for the contest.

[User] The heroes entered Fortree at dusk. Liam went straight to the Pokémon Center and handed his Pokémon to Joy for healing.

[Assistant] Shiranui handed his Pokémon over to Joy when his turn came up.

[User] The Pokémon were brought back once they were healed. Joy than ordered the duo to go to bed.

[Assistant] Shiranui knew better than to disobey a Nurse Joy and thus went to bed, excited about the coming day. He had admired the locals' lifestyle of living in the treetops with the only ground-level structures being non-residential.

[User] The next morning came and Liam got up early. He went to do some last minute practicing on his appeal.


[System]
Age: 16, but appears younger. Never seems to age.
Gender: Female
Rank: Middle Class
Species: Human Mage
Powers: Ice/Snow, Healing
Appearance: Eir is a small girl of about 4'11", with long silvery white hair that ends just above her knees and pale skin. Her face is very childish, giving her the younger appearance, with soft baby cheeks, a button nose, and bright wandering aqua eyes. She has multiple scars and cuts and bruises all over her body, covered in bandages. She may wince if you touch them, but is highly protective of the patch over her eye. Eir wears very simple, breezy clothes and often goes without shoes, preferring the bandages around her feet to protect the pads. She's quite thin, almost to an unhealthy size, making her very light.
Personality: Eir is a very shy and quiet girl. She mostly minds her own business and is terrified of socializing, being awkward and unsure of how to interact with others properly. She is very attached to her animated stuffed rabbit, Roger, who has a life of his own... literally. Roger is the only one she can talk to without getting nervous, and so usually whispers to him so he can better project her thoughts. Eir is a sweetheart, but a mystery in herself. She is obedient, but very cold and flinches away from human touch. Even Ama, the woman who took her in, cannot seem to get the girl to so much as hug her.
History Eir's story, like her personality, is very foggy and unclear. From what Ama can retell, Eir's parents left her alone at a young age. Why or when is really unknown.
Eir was found by Ama, a 63-year old woman at the time. One night while searching through her trash and going out into the alley to toss it away, a spark of white caught her eye. Hidden in the darkness of the alleys, Ama found the little girl, shaking and cuddling a stuffed rabbit to her chest. She was pretty badly bruised and hurt, but that didn't seem to be anything that bothered her. Ama took her inside, allowing the shivering thing to rest away from the coldness.
In the morning after the girl slept, Ama awoke to see Eir sitting up straight on the bed she had borrowed, looking dazed. Ama asked her some questions, mostly pertaining to how she got there, but Eir couldn't answer. She didn't know who she was, where she came from, or even what her name was. She only knew that the little stuffed rabbit by her side was her bestest friend in the whole world. To Ama's surprise, it was the talking stuffed rabbit that gave a little more background, but not much. The rabbit stated that he had advised his friend to hide, for being in the city was most likely safer than spending time out in the wilderness near the crag. He said that Eir's parents were gone, her whole family. Eir mumbled something about a brother, but caught herself and refused to speak another word. The rabbit was silent as well.
"Well, you can't go around without a name!" Pondered Ama. Her pale skin, white hair and blue eyes reminded Ama of a little girl in one of her favorite children's books, and so decided that she should be named after the character: Eir. And for the rabbit? Eir would not stand to have her best friend be nameless. "Hmm. Roger! Roger the Rabbit!" They all seemed to agree on that one.
After a few months, Eir began to warm up to Ama. She worked at the apothecary alongside the alchemist, and soon became another face of the apothecary. Ama noticed her powers grow and grow, but with her powers Eir grew more wounded and it became harder to heal any bruises, leaving her constantly in bandages, especially on her left eye. Still, They became family, closer than that even. And for eight years, that's the way it has stayed.
Extra: There are two things you must never touch. Her eye bandage, and Roger. She is never separated from her stuffed rabbit. Like any other girl, she loves cute little animals and sweets, and it's one of the only few things she actually gets excited over.

Accepted on PM

[User]
The sun rose above the splendor that was the Imperial City as it always had and the crystal tower that overlooked the whole of it glittered with its usual splendor.
The poor part of town would have been up hours ago, going to work, making the basic necessities that the rich lived on, doing what they could to survive and take care of their families. In the rich part of town, a select few would be rising with the sun- other than those who were up that early for practice or for study. They were to report to the western most gate of the city were a council member would be waiting for them to give them a map to guide them to their goal. It was fairly straight forward, though, as he would tell them, they would need to expect detours throughout Waylox. The country had been torn apart first by an usurper that dethroned its queen, and then by that same queen as she sought retribution against the country that sought to get rid of her after all she had sacrificed to protect them and keep the peace. There was a darker evil in that country than evil produced by the beast in the crag.
Some of the first to arrive at the gate- which stood about a mile away from the nearest buildings- were the Valtoris cousins. Miral and Ryfon were both astride horses of high breeding as they approached the older mage, but he did not even seem remotely impressed by them as the people in the lower quarters had. He was a council member after all, he lived even higher than anyone on this trip. He was also here to make sure the Grand Sage's puppet showed up to keep things as in control as they could manage from a distance. The Valrtoris cousins and the LaMontiya girl would know the most of the thing's existence than the others, who might have heard mere whispers, but know no details (That's not up for debate by the way). The cousins looked up at the rather morose looking gate, wondering why no one had bothered to fix the thing up, but Miral finally settled upon the fact that their workers- the nonmagical members of society- would be too at risk being this close to the dead wood. That being said she didn't miss the magical runes and markings that covered the entirety of the wall. While it looked in rough shape, nothing short of a dragon could get past it.
Ryfon looked around as they stood to the left of the mage, by his own directing, wondering what others had signed up for this potential suicide mission. Even when they passed the war in Waylox, they would be entering dragon country. True, dragons weren't the bumbling beasts as some tales made them out to be, but if any of them knew what they were up to, he doubted the dragons would let them just waltz on by. They were going to have to come up with reaons between here and there that the giants would buy and allow them to pass. Hopefully there were less rash individuals than his cousin would likely get fed up with the whole planning idea and decide to barge right in and try and show off her moves- which would be useless against a fire dragon. He sighed, suddenly nervous this whole thing was a terrible plan.He looked at Miral and whispered a question for the mage to her. He wasn't allowed to talk directly to him because of his lower station and lack of magical abilities.
Miral rolled her eyes but looked to the mage, "My cousin wishes to know if there are enough people signed on for this venture," she said in a rather bored tone.
The mage gave a sort of grunt as if he were personally insulted by the question, "The Grand Sage approved the start of the journey, that's all you need know, boy," he snapped directly at Ryfon who bowed his head as if to apologize. He hated the council sometimes. He turned his attention back to the road that lead up to the gate, waiting for their comrade in arms to join him

[Assistant]
Thomas had just returned to his humble home. He didn't really do much that night just spoke with his fence and stole some food from the rich. No real effort was needed. He did catch a guard spying on a noble woman presumably in the nude. He may no like the nobility but perverts he liked less. So he set the man up to be caught. If rumors were true that man is a eunuch now, serves him right.

Thomas ate some of the stolen food and stored the rest. He sat down at a work bench to sharpen his arrows.

[User]
A sigh could be heard just before a woman would step threw the wall. Not literally, she had just perfectly lined up the portal with the wall, no small feat, but "Child's play." as the mage would proudly whisper as she looked back to appreciate her perfect stealth portal! What uses could it have in the future! Her appreciation for her work was rudely interrupted by the onlookers who watched her arrive...Sure magic was common but she seemed to step out of a liquid wall.
"Do not fret, I have not damaged the wall. I am 99% positive that the structure is completely in tact!" As if to spite her a bit of the top of the structure let a stray bit of dust fall from it...."98% sure"
With that she cleared her throat and straightened her ruffles (which quickly resumed being ruffles) and set off to the destination. Which was a left turn, right...Exact destination.
Looking over the surroundings she finds that there is....Nothing to do but wait. How she loved waiting, and spending her incredibly valuable time idle, if this wasn't just as important she would have charged opportunity cost. While three people seemed to be there already, it wasn't her nature to introduce herself, particularly to such a...boring group.

[Assistant]
Elias had prepared for this moment his entire life. Rigoruous training, studying, all his nights of hard work- it was all going to pay off. Although it wasn't quite as impressive as say, being the Grand Sage's new apprentice, or even his replacement, this was going to be a good start. And although it was near impossible to tell merely by looking at him, the young mage was quite elated to be accepted to run such an incredibly important errand. He moved at a quick pace, but not so fast that it seemed like he was running. Elias did feel a bit guilty for neglecting the clear opportunity to hone his skills for a teleportation or perhaps a portal spell, but he wanted to show his future party that he was prepared for the physically demanding journey ahead- and that meant walking the entire way, even if it made his legs sore.

Elias halted for a moment to collect himself before making a last turn, where the gate would be. He took special care to adjust the sash around his waist so the crest was easier to see. He smirked slightly, wondering what his brothers would think when they heard the Grand Sage's council had summoned him. They would certainly be jealous, and that thought alone was quite satisfying.

One deep breath later, Elias turned the corner to see the tall gate. At first, he felt rather underwhelmed at the flimsy looking structure, but upon a closer look, he noticed it was covered in runes and spells. His light colored eyes scanned the people standing by the gate. The small gathering of men and women seemed older than him, and Elias's pride swelled yet again at this. He could only think of the envy they felt right now- his coharts would soon learn he was far more skilled than all of them, and at sixteen years no less! The young mage considered introducing himself, but decided to wait until everyone had arrived.

But then again, did one of the Beauvallets really need introducing?

[User]
Quiet as a mouse, and similar in stature, what appeared to be a young girl had also neared the group. Her silence in her steps could only be from the absence of shoes upon her feet. The white haired girl stopped as four figures caught her eye, she stifling a whimper and transferring her weight from one foot to another with anxiousness. The little stuffed rabbit, all buttoned and sewed from years of wear and tear, was hanging onto her folded arms and was kept close to her. For a moment, it appeared as though the thing's head moved, but it was back to being perfectly still faster than the eye could blink.

Like the others, Eir had taken a few steps back as far as socializing. Her big blue eye, the only visible one, darted about worriedly as she futilely attempted to hide herself from their gazes. Her height may have helped her stay out of mind, but it also could bring attention. 'What was a bandaged up little girl doing here?' She could imagine them saying. What if they sent her home? No, they couldn't! She took this job in place of Ama, who was sick back at the apothecary. She couldn't do such extraneous work now, Ama was in her old age and her body couldn't handle it.

It took everything Eir had just to argue with her adoptive mother for her to go instead. That's just the way Ama was. She had to help in every way she could, no matter how difficult it was for her. She was too headstrong, and adamantly refused not doing something to help in this cause. If Eir couldn't handle it, Ama would demand to join the party, in her sickness and old age.

So no matter what, Eir refused to return home. She was doing this for Ama, and she would not disappoint her. Even if she was scared... Eir clutched her rabbit tighter.