Cynthia
"Oh *Great*, I have always dreamed of becoming a-" He froze as he noticed Bukka staring at him, and he locked away the height based joke with a deft moment of self preservation. "I'll find the puffs." He grumbles and enhances his senses. 

Enhancemant Magic worked in a strange way. When using the magic, a person could look at their body as if it had "Stats". Noctis had two pools of stats to work with, internal and external. The internal pool was the values of his body as it was, which ranged from a scale of 1% to 100%. He could change those numbers at will, decreasing the value of one body parts stat added to the external pool until that was used up. 

For example, in this instance he was decreasing his sense of hearing down to 0% and giving those "Stats" To his sense of smell. He could do this on a micro or macro scale with varying results in the effect. As time went on, Noctis' enhancement magic was used so often that it left his base stats higher, which increased his internal pool. 

His external pool allowed him to add "Theoretical" Numbers to his already existing stats, which allowed him to have his superhuman abilities. 

Sniffing the the puffs once, he instantly managed to catch its trail. 

"This way." He said, enhancing his memory to lock in the trail and then reverting his "Stats" Back to normal. "You love your potions huh? You would have loved some old friends of mine. They were always making something new, creative folk. I liked them." He says, and then he grimaces. They'd be long dead now, even with their longevity, no sign of them in any histories. He had supposed to have dinner with them a week after the day he would vanish from Aeterna for thousands of years. 

"So you want to shrink us down and send us in there? Lets up an hour is enough." He says, coming to a clearing where she'd find the source of the puffs. "You're very... Cute? I've never met a cute witch. Most of the ones I met were of the Nightmare Coven. Twisted women, their dream magic was

So potent they could kill you from another realm, all while you slumbered." He said, sitting down on a log and letting her work, watching her move with his silver eyes. "I do much prefer you cute though, don't like people snooping through my dreams."
Monte
"Thank you." *Esme chuckles before following a few paces behind Noctis.*

*Sure, she could use her magic to produce more puff or even have the root be highlighted. But she will not say no to Noctis helping. Besides, if she does all of the work then he will not earn the respect of the Pukwudgies. So it is best she take a step back, at least for now. Even in the face of uncertain darkness, Esme will always walk like the fresh spring of the years first bloom. She is a flower under the sunlight and no amount of shade can damper that.*

"An hour should be enough. We can always grab an extra root to be safe." *She then explain, lifting a finger as she gives her head a shake.*

*Then her ears turn the same shade of her hair, her face glowing. Her soft freckled features now illuminate like a ripened strawberry and yet again the witch is befallen to being flushed. With a sharp inhale and the inability to focus her gaze on one particular thing. She murmurs under her breath of words that too quiet to make out. Again with the compliments, something that could have been avoided. Which is why she clutches her bag tighter, keeping her head low and her brow furrowed.*

"Wh-why are you saying that..." *She murmurs, a little louder in the sound of possible annoyance? No, not Esme. She is just awkward. But then she clears her throat to actually speak up.*

"Yes some witches have green skin, ride brooms and cackle underneath the moonlight. But real witches are like... Chosen guardians of magic. To study in the natural laws rather than the books of schools. Not saying schools are bad, but my coven preached the importance of the ancient rites. Divination... True... Divination is not something you can learn, you are born with it... Ancient magic... You are born with."

*Of course there is a great deal that Esme is omitting as her coven was far from saints. Part of her wished that they were just cackling mean spirited casters rather than what they truly imposed and acted upon. But through their shortcomings there were definitive laws that could not be argued. Such power, to be born with it, must be trained the ancient way. Esme can only imagine what would happen if she was not... Perhaps she would be crueller than a demon... An onslaught of death could have easily followed had she not been raised within the Twilight of truth.*
Cynthia
"Real witches is a strange term, I disagree. To other witches your coven might be a perversion, perspective is important." Getting up from the log, he pulls the sword out and moves through a few shortsword form. 

Scampering Rat into hidden bite, a thrust meant to get into a weak spot of an opponents armor. Butterlfy strokes over rushing streams, a series of quick cuts following by a feint into a jab. It was truly a fine blade. Spinning it in his hands, he sheathed it again and rested his hands on his knees as she mixed the potion for them. Bukka watched him with an approving nod, practicing some movements with his own needle like sword. 

"Fine I won't compliment you. I find it odd, surely you've had people, men and women undoubtedly, compliment you. Still- we're here for a job. Lets just get it done." Her aversion to anything kind he'd said to her irked him, he felt irritable. His beautiful face was a mask of indifference however, his silver eyes looking far away. He was looking inward, at what about her allured him. He knew of course, she was the embodiment of the world he wanted- at least on the surface. Yet she was just one person and ultimately- a distraction. He'd not let her stray his path. 

"How long will it take you to mix the potion, Witch of Twilight" He asks, gazing into the dark shadows of the forest which encroached in around them. He could make out faint whispers, hateful things in an olde and devilish tongue that even his own magic could not decipher.
Monte
*Esme is quick to find a seat and begin working on the experimental potion. She has done it before but anything made outside of the station may not always be perfect. Not that she is concerned of major side effects. But she does expect their voices to have a temporary helium-induced sound once they drink it for a little while. Listening as she works, she shrugs to the perspective. Yes, each coven is different and she holds no disagreement in this. But what a monster is to another is situational. To a the world, a cat is a predator. But to a bird... It is a beast more foul known to any avian. Anything that you do not know, anything that can be dangerous... Well, she understands where the rumors of witches come from. But not all are cruel and not all are kind. Esme may even be a rare exception.*

"Men and women, yes." *She mumbles as the red in her face fades away.*
"I have had men and women demand I be their bride, hidden or publicly claimed. I am sure you know beauty and treasure is always a curse more than a blessing."

*She then suddenly stops to look over at Noctis, her words eluding to something sinister. From attempts at kidnapping to obsessive knights. Esme has dealt with a great handful of characters. Perhaps this is why compliments are so difficult. They open Pandora's box to superficial obsession that she despises. Many have sought out in claim for her. But none have understood her, wanted to see more than the idol they so desperately worshipped... Then she feels that stinging pain in her head and Esme is comes to a halt in shaking the potion. Those hazed memories again, why are they so active now?*

*With a small shake to clear her vision, Esme continues and gives Noctis a proper answer.* "Just five minutes... And I apologize if I have upset you. I just fear that such words can lead to deeper affections... Deeper affections that will be for naught." 

*At this point Esme is mumbling as most of her attention is on the potion and her concentration isn't faltering from it. It makes her voice monotone and she becomes unintentionally curt. But her words are not without truth. She need not know of Noctis' interest in her to be honest over vain attempts.*

"For I cannot be loved in that and it cannot be reciprocated..." *She continues, again speaking to herself as if to convince and remind rather than to explain to Noctis.* "Almost... Almost done."
Cynthia
"Yeah, I know." Noctis' body was no temple. Of the many roles he had served for Scipio, being a concubine to rent out was the worst. Men, women- Noctis had been a plaything for many, always for gain. Diplomatic relations, assassinations, coercion. Killing someone you'd just slept with did terrible things to the mind- as hardened as he was, his constant nightmare was the face of each person he'd killed after bedding them. To many in his own time, Noctis was the cat to the avian veiws of the masses. Deaths Lover, they'd called him. A beauty with a rotten core deep within. Yes, he knew what happened when people desired you, and he knew what happened when they couldn't have you. Drugged, bound, beaten, threatened and more, he knew he was lucky to be alive. His far off gaze focused on her as she seems to stop- was that a grimace for a moment? 

"Cannot be loved and you cannot love." He scoffed. "Let me take a crack at it- something to do with your witchcraft, oh keeper of balance? You're over two hundred but you're human, sure you've got elven qualities so maybe you were raised by elves or were close with one, fae magic can bestow those things too over time. Agelessness, keeper of nature and you have a rank among the orders of the Fae... You've made some sort of magical pact haven't you? I've heard of them, magical bindings that grant abilities that come with limitations." He wasn't sure if he was right- but he'd seen more magic than any living on Aeterna, even if it was specfically hers. 

"Do you want to be loved Esme? I imagine spending eternity alone can be quite painful." He says, plopping onto the grass beside her so they can speak face to face. "Don't worry. I don't want to love you. The thought of loving you makes me feel sick to my stomach, if im being honest." That was the truth, though in actuality it really felt less like being sick and more... Like being stabbed. The rare moment his mind had wandered to the idea of what kissing those soft lips of Esmes, he'd

Seen Emi's face instead. "That isn't an insult to your beauty- I meant what I said, i've never met a mortal your equal. From your lips of silk to your hair of blossoms, to the drug of your rosemary chains." 

*"But ill **Never** Love again."* He thought to himself, feeling rage and hatred broil in his chest for the woman he'd robbed him of everything. 

"Does that assuage you?"
Monte
*Esme only briefly looks at Noctis as she does not wish to lose focus from her concoction. It's just about done but it's at it's most delicate stage. Too much spinning, too little, it can cause greater disasters than likely whatever is underground. Plus she would rather not make another. The supply is limited and most of the potions she had packed are healing potions. So those won't be much use if they botch this one and are unable to face the demons down below.*

"These are all true..." *She starts, pulling the bottle a bit closer to her face to make sure the liquid is at the right consistency.*
"But they are not applicable to me."

*Esme is human, this is correct. But she made no pact to get her magic nor was she directly raised solely by elves. Fae magic is vast but is congruent with emotions. So if anything, her magic should be heightened by it as love and hate are eternally partnered. Their bond so strong it can raze worlds, maybe even the astral sea itself. Yet this does not apply to her. No, what prevents her from indulging in such activities is but a mere oath. Simple and so easy to break if not taken serious. But... If it were truly that easy for Esme, it is likely with the witch's beauty and kindness, it should have happened already. Never does she get visitors yet the hut is always prepared for them. So what is the missing link?*

"I have no magical pact, just a promise. One that shan't be forsaken." *She sighs as she allows her hand to fall into her lap, the potion complete.*

"I can appreciate life and the laws of nature. Perhaps it can even love me and I it to a certain degree. But it cannot go any further than duty. So am I alone? I don't think so. I have seen many of faces and heard many of tales. I worry not over such trivial matters such as that. When my time comes, whenever that may be... I shall be content." 

*Her words are grim yet she smiles through them all the same. There isn't even pain in her eyes. In fact, there isn't any real emotion to be seen in them overall. Perhaps over time Esme has conditioned herself to accept this fact. But there are forces at work that Esme must oblige to, forces that not even she is aware of. She merely chuckles over Noctis' harsh words, coming to a stand now that the potion is ready.*

"I do not take your words as insult nor have I ever intended to imply you have had any sort of attraction or feelings towards me Noctis. I apologize if that is how I came off. I only meant to explain that I am wary of sweetened words. You shall not love again and that is your choice. "*She explain, intentionally omitting herself from the idea.*

"We have only just met. I think it would be quite silly that a demigod would harbor any thoughts for a witch anyways." *Esme then finishes with a laugh, completely confirming she has had no idea of the troubles that ail Noctis. With a tiny skip, she turns towards Bukka, giving him a signal that everything is ready.*
Cynthia
Noctis did not reply to her words. So he'd been wrong, on all counts. Figured. She was hardly even human, she was like a doll all prettied up in a childs cute little doll house in a fairy forest- and would never be touched by a loving childs hands. It was depressing. He'd spent his life a toy but at least he'd *Had* A life, and felt everything a long the way. She either felt *Nothing* And was just a pretty, souless being doing a job, an automaton set to motion- or she was wearing a mask that she'd had on so long it had fused to her fucking face. Whatever it was, it unsettled him. He needed her and her power, but he didn't need to get to know her. She didn't want him to get to know her, she had agreed to a deal and she was following it through, a cute doll following the routine of a child that would never come to play. 

He felt hollow and averted his gaze from her. Truthfully he never wanted to lay eyes on her again. She was good, she was practically an aspect of nature. No pact, no promises, just a promise huh? Yet she stayed young and she commanded fae. Right. A load of shit. All he had was a sentence in an entire novel of her story, and that sentence gave him nothing. Fine, this was a bussiness deal. 

With a start he realized he was *Hurt*. He didn't want her to be an automaton, he wanted the glimpses of that woman to be real and to be toucchable and to want to see him, to want to know him too, to give even half a rats ass about anything more than him as a transaction. Was this how he treated others? He supposed so, it brought him no comfort. This wasn't supposed to happen to *Him.* He hated these fucking woods, and he wished he could hate this damned witch. 

- - - 

**"Drink and follow then, I will ead you through a secret path I use to spy, but Bukka go no further. Bukka has no magic to fight them and his arrows do not pierce their skin, for it is hard as stone. Do not touch the black blood, it makes you sick, it kills, it warps."** The tiny mans voice was hi

Gh and ice cold with fear. It was obvious it was taking all of his courage just to take them as close as he was. With his bow drawn, he waited for them to drink. Noctis would take the potion from Esme and drink when she did, never saying a word. His face had seemed to lose its color- it was beautiful as ever, but like marble now, like a statue without life. His silver eyes were less, they were merely grey. A mortal grey, a human grey. 

His appearance could sometimes be affected by his mood, and it had tanked. 

After they had, Bukka would take them to a tree that had long since died, nothing but rotting wood and empty limbs now. At the roots was a hole that was so small, the Pukwudgie had to put his bow on his back and crawl in. 

**"Hurry now Witch and Swordsman. We travel several minutes by crawling to get to the right tunnel. Do not make a sound within."**
Monte
*Esme is a bit surprised by his lack of words. Normally Noctis is quite talkative yet he has suddenly become cold. But what does she know? Her eyes remained glued on him, she decides to let thoughts pass like driftwood in a river. Has her words deeply offended him? Perhaps her feels awkward. It was an awkward conversation and Esme does not wish to sound full of herself. Who is she to try and make claim anyone has begun to fall for her no matter the history.*

*Feeling a bit bad, she decides to swallow away her concern as she does the drink. Together they will feel the world spin. The bodies a drift as if standing on clouds, too thin to barely hold their weight. Their lungs without air, the spine stiff. Then the trees get bigger and bigger until they get so big, that grass blades take their places. Fireflies that were once tiny spectacles in the sky now reign like dragons, flames igniting in their bellies as they dare rival the father sun.*

"There we go..." *Tiny Esme squeaks as she looks around.*
"Our things have shrunk with us... Good. Now, we should be swift. We do not have much time."

*Esme is unbothered by the shifting of potions and magic now. Years of tests and projects going south tends to build immunity. But realizing she's instantly jumping to action. She catches herself, looking back at Noctis. Making sure that he is okay before trying to continue forward. He may be distant but they have a job to do. Plus she has no way of knowing why and she would never dare assume it is because it is any deeper feeling. How could it be? They do not know each other, she would never expect him or anyone to care so deeply about her.*
Cynthia
She'd find him looking up at the trees, his raven black hair falling away from his face as grey eyes, mortal eyes, took in the leaves and branches so high above him, so large. The roots were hills to climbs, ants around him beasts of equal size. A shudder in the earth and he could see a large dung beetle go lazily by. His heightened senses took in this new world and overloaded him, delighted him. Closing his eyes, he listened to all the sounds he missed in the never ending chatter of sound while normal sized. This was Aeterna and yet, this was an alien world. Another alien world. She would have seen his lips form to a smile- but the smile fades. Opening his eyes, he nods at her words. 

"Then go." He says in a squeaky voice, his tone curt, gesturing for her to move along. He'd take the rear, make sure nothing happened to her. Make sure nothing happened to her because she was the one who could fix this and because he needed her. 

It was getting easier to tell himself that. Whatever he was killing now, it was dying slow- but it was dying. A weakness, a cancer to carve out. Anything else was a falsehood. She'd said it best, "I worry not over such trivial matters such as that." It was such a polar opposite of his nature, of his core. He was designed to love, to be loved- by the world, by others. Could he forge himself into an automaton like her? Would life be better that way? Maybe that had been what Scipio had wanted too. If he had, Emi never would have happened. His body felt strange and he felt slightly dizzy, but he had been changing his bodys make up for years, it was the basis for his magic power. He'd adjust in a few moments.
Monte
*Esme gives a small nod, aware of his tonal change even now but she does not point it out. Turning on her heels, she begins to march forward. Keeping a close eye out on anything that could spell danger, looking around as even the tiniest of dew drops can crush them like a waterfall now. The hole shouldn't be far but they must tread carefully. Even the dirt, that has grains the size of boulders, looks worn and old. Whatever is here has made its mark and it infuriates Esme to no end.*

*As a ladybug approaches them, she simply ducks underneath it. Walking undisturbed as it threatens her balance. Most of the critters pose no threat here and she is surprised they are even around. Holding out a hand, her magic is produced and her palm illimated in light. Even if the grass is here as shelter, the shade they provide is causing it to be too dark for her taste. She hums in slight discomfort, narrowing her eyes as she continues forwards.*

"If you still to feel any discomfort, you let me know immediately. Okay?"
Jessie
"You got it." Noctis responds softly. He too senses the death and danger, and he keeps himself several paces away from her, his hand on the blades hilt. Before he'd walked beside her, drawn to her- but now he'd keep his distance. Keep that lovely smell of rosemary from his nostrils, refuse to acknowledge that her very existence spoke to everything he'd been designed to love. 

- - - 

*As they approached the hole, they'd come to find two different senses being targeted. First was the smell, a dank smell, a smell of decay and rot. Sickly sweet, putrid and vile. It came from within, it came from around. It wasn't so strong that one would gag- it was faint and yet ever present. 

The second was the sounds, whispers just on the edge of hearing. Whispers of dark things, hateful things, threats of violence and deranged murmurs of fear and spite. This was an evil place. 

Bukka, now only a few inches shorter than them, gestured them on and began to crawl into the tunnels. He moved swiftly and brokered them no patience. His tiny hands and bare feet dug into the dry earth as he scrambled deeper and deeper into the tunnel. 

After nearly five minutes of crawling, he grunted as he pushed against a pebble at the opening. It shifted and fell over, and he wriggled through. When the two followed, they'd find themselves in a small room. It was a strange sight. 

The room looked like... Well... A room. An old storage room, the walls were thin strips of wood- slivers to regular folk, and there were shelves that were rotted in and barrels, the floor was paved and there was a door on the other end, locked. Bukka removed a key from his pouch and handed it to Esme. 

**"Their den is through the big tunnel. You'll see it in the next room- always guards. Guards never sleep, they eat bugs and bits of beasts, always raw. Be wary, be quiet. Too much noise- and they might all come."** He spoke in a whisper, barely loud enough for Esme to hear. Noctis only heard because of his unique abilities. Already the black haired demigod had his ear pressed to the door. 

His grey eyes looked right next to Esme, never at her, and he held up two fingers, nodding to show that Bukka was right. He could hear two creatures in the other side of the locked door. 

**"Remember, don't touch the black blood. It bleeds from the walls."** Bukka whispered, pointing to a puddle of black blood like liquid on the floor. It seemed to writhe and hiss- and the witch would find that the whispers seemed to be emanating from *It.*
Monte
*Esme takes a bit of time to scan the inside. First she covers her nose with the upper portion of her palm. The smell is vile though not entirely unfamiliar, as the scent of decay is just apart of life as the smell of new beginnings. But she hates it all the same and its strong enough to make her eyes slightly water. Of course she cannot just walk around with one hand, she'll need both for casting spells. It is a given. So her arms fall to her side, closing her eyes briefly to still her mind. For not even the witch is immune to foreign trickery and illusion.*

"Understood." *She mumbles quietly, so quiet that the sound of her voice is barely noticable.*

*As far as this black blood goes? Esme narrows her eyes, trying to draw from past reference on where she could have seen it from. Are they corrupt bugs? Oh that answer is much too easy and she knows the world enough, that no puzzle solved is ever done so with ease. Hypothesizing and theories will have to wait. Each quest must be taken as new, a beast best learned about to avoid under estimating or over estimating opponents. It is a tactic that she has long implored and it has insured her survival more times than not.*

*But how do they intend to go about this? Esme wants one creature alive is possible so that she may extract information. Should it prove sentient, it can give further insight... Or cause further trouble. If not, then she can study their materials when they are dead. For now, its best to at least set up for an ambush.*

"I will refrain from using earth magic in case something caves in. But if we can perhaps pull them out... We can ambush them. We just need to figure out a plan." *Esme whispers to the two men, her magic at the ready.*
Cynthia
We can draw them into this room, I'll hold their attention while you work your magic. I'd just kill them, but I don't know what enhancing myself would do in this size. I might create enough force with just my footsteps to collapse the entire tunnel system on us. Guess I'll just use this." He says, pulling the blade out. 

"Hide behind some of the barrels, while they're focused on me lock them down." Noctis had come closer to whisper to her. The scent of him, the scent of her past- would fill her nose and chase away the horrible smell within the room for a moment as he was close. 

"Bukka, hide in the tunnel we came in from. Don't get me killed, Esme." He says, sighing and he moved to the door. When she was in position, he'd open it. Letting out a low whistle, he'd let them see him. Dancing back into the room, two creatures would charge in after him. 

They were roughly the size of Bukka, but their bodies were... Wrong. Their legs bent backwards, spines with sharp edges protruded from their backs, they had razor sharp needle like teeth and claws on their hands that looked like razor blades. 

They moved at a swift crawl, like a beast on all fours. The first one lunged and Noctis caught it's claws on the shortsword, kicking it back and only spinning in time to deflect the claws of the other as it slashed at his side. 

Even without his magic active he was a blur of motion, slashing and blocking, thrusting and parrying, his footwork as if he were in a strange dance of death with the two creatures. They were entirely focused on him as he fought to keep them from slicing him to ribbons and from noticing her.
Monte
*Esme does not take a second to question and gets into position almost immediately. She has no intentions of letting anyone die today. With her grimoire open and the pages turning themselves. They reveal the ancient tongue of her spell casting. She is already mid whisper by the time Noctis lets out the whistle to catch the creatures attention.*

*When she actually spots them, Esme is reminded of a past much harsher. Back when her and her sisters first took the plunge to be accepted into the coven. It wasn't just the haze that proved lethal but the twisted denizens within. Back before the coven had decided to truly settle itself here, back when the roots were twisted and the pain of the fallen can be heard in the wind. It felt like a bog, a place of nightmares that no child would dare to enter. Yet Esme was forced to and like most grim tales go, she was the only survivor.*

*Which only serves a greater purpose and further driving her to irradicate whatever these are. They will be studied, but there will be no conversation. It is exactly why she is so swift. Extending out a hand as she calls forth a bolt of energy. Pure and raw magical energy, taking the form of a blue-ish green orb that is hurled at the charging creature. Slamming directly the moment it tries to get up and attack at Noctis again. She has had years to hone her aim... A skill she had to learn in mere minutes in her tender age.*

***Mediate the light and dark Esme, dispel the darkness and take it within, produce the light in the name of the Twilight... Esme.*** 

"Yes mother." *Esme ushers quietly, her eyes changing to a sudden flash of red before returning to their normal hue... Odd.*
Cynthia
As the light sears the corruption within, the creature is left as a husk. It drops to the ground and goes still after curling into itself. 

Noctis ducked beneath the swipe of the other and then tackled it down. These things had skin as hard as stone- sure, but he'd fought creatures like that before. As it tried to slash him, he pinned its arms down with his knees and thrust his blade into its gaping maw and into the soft flesh, piercing its brain and causing it to shuddered before going still. Stumbling back, he flicked the black blood off his blade and sheathed it. 

**"Very good, you can fight them. You can kill them. Weak in the mouth. Very good. I go no further, I wait here until you come back. After an hour, I leave again and know you are dead. May the mother of spring be with you both."** Bukka said, and he took to studying the dead one that Noctis had slain. 

"Not bad, witch." Noctis said, walking over to her. He'd been cut on the side of the stomach by one of the razor sharp blades when he'd tackled the corrupted creature, and dripped blood to the earth which soaked it in greedily. Placing a hand to his side, he put pressure on the wound. It wasn't bad- but it *Throbbed* Terribly. 

"Are you ready to push forward. We only have so much time." He said, not looking at her but the space beside her. Her rosemary scent had found him and he wanted nothing more than to step closer, to know why that smell of all smells, to know where she'd learned her magic, he was impressed with her ability to jump into action. She was a brilliant light in this dark place and he could never touch that. It was unpleasant to say the very least.
Monte
*Seeing the final one felled, Esme is quick to rush over. She gives Bukka an 'understood', not even looking back as she did not expect him to stay with. His job was merely to guide them towards the area of conflict, not be apart of it. Getting closer to Noctis whether he likes it or not, she does not seem to heed his words nor his feelings that she still remains unaware of. Getting in his personal space, she first looks up at him seeing he did not break a sweat per say but a cut had been inflicted.*

"You are injured." *She mumbles.*

*Esme would not have dared touched Noctis prior. Sure, they exchanged a few playful tugs to their clothing or even a pat on the shoulder. The witch couldn't even look at him when his shirt was just slightly unbuttoned. But now? Esme doesn't even ask, she is on pure action and in the process. She grabs hold of his hand in an attempt to pull it away so that the wound may be visible to her. Her touch is delicate, her thumb even rubbing the top of his palm in comfort as she tries to usher it out of the way.*

"Allow me to see the wound. You musn't remain injured." *She states, slowly bringing her bright-eyed gaze up at him. As if pleading in a hope for him to understand and rationalize that the wound must be treated immediately.*
Cynthia
His eyes widen as her hand finds his and he stiffens, wincing as both his wound is twinged from his own movements and the shock of her skin upon his own sent a current of electricity arcing through his nervous system. Every cell he had felt alive and burned, and his heart seemed to kickstart a moment. Life or death combat? No problem. 

A stranger he'd just met touching his hand so softly? Major heart attack. 

Even in their smaller sizes, she'd find his body was like iron. Tugging on his arm would feel like tugging on an ancient oak- pointless. She could have sooner moved a boulder with her pinky then moved his arm had she wanted to, he was just that overwhelmingly strong. 

However as her thumb caressed his skin, it was as if it were a magic spell that forced the hand to move and obey. Soon the wound was visible, a few inch thick gash that ran from his stomach to his side. Perhaps the strangest thing about it was that it already looked infected, with purple around the edges of the cut upon his skin. 

His eyes flicked down and met hers, and oh what a sight her eyes were. He seemed to get lost, hopelessly so, as the two looked at each other. His lips parted and his expression was confused, nervous and his head tilted towards hers only the slightest bit... But then he looked away. 

"Fine." He grunted.
Monte
*At first Esme frowns to the resistance. She has dealt with a great deal of many stubborn warriors, warriors who believed their strength to rival that of the old gods. Even now, when faces before the child of one. She is reminded a man's pride knows no bounds. But their ability to conceded when shown sincerity knows no bounds either. Bickering has proven nothing in the past and she had no intention of doing so even if he had disagreed.*

*Her hand still set upon his. As it falls from the wound, so does her as it remains gripped. Providing comfort is just as important as fixing the wound, another skill Esme has learned. Before she finally pulls her hand away, she gives it a light squeeze as her eyes remained glued to the cut now. It's deeper than she would like, sickly even. Part of her wishes Noctis was not brought along. Quests like this are often ones she embarks on her own. These are woods that she has long vowed to protect among many other things. It is no one else's duty but her own.*

"You will feel a sting, but it will get better." *She soothes as she pulls towards Noctis.*

*She is careful in moving the cloth away from the wound. It looks worse than she realized and part of her wonders if their claws are poisoned. Maybe not poisoned but this energy is not good and it coats them equal to a poison on a dagger. This causes Esme to click her teeth in frustration as she uses one hand to hold up the cloth and the other, now brought to Noctis' skin.*

*Her touch is warm, maybe even embraced depending on how Noctis feels about it. Her fingertips spread and her palms now completely covering the gash. Esme closes her eyes as she begins to small chant of healing. She'll not only need to close the wound in attendance to it, but also rid him of this energy. Light coats her hands and arms, the air around her picking up as the weave playfully flows through her body and hair. It's warm, very warm. The warmth travelling from the wound to the neck, perhaps even the head. Then with a small gentle caress, Esme allows herself to be connected to the weave, and the weave to Noctis'. The smell of rosemary overwhelming, the song that Esme sung in the gardens this morning whispering in the wind. A lullaby of comfort, a lullaby of healing. It is like she is embracing him, surrounding Noctis' being and her breath just inches from his ear.*

*Undoing the pain of time itself. The wound will then sting as the body is forced to magically repair itself. It as if small pricks of frost grow on the body, like winter to spring. It fades as it soon arrives and summer is back into bloom. The wound itself closed and the darkness pulled from it into Esme's palm. Her eyes ablaze in gold, glaring at the shadow orb before completely crushing it. A small shrill scream of agony is produced as it is destroyed, a common trait with darkness that she dispells. Then she finally pulls away, leaving the lingering sensation of her touch.*

"Sorry, a moment." *Esme whispers as she sets a hand on her forehead temporarily. No darkness can be truly destroyed. There will always be a part of the pain Esme takes herself. But the dizziness fades and the witch stands tall.*
Cynthia
Noctis was amazed to find he had to blink back tears, gritting his teeth as her magic surrounded him, embraced him, drowned him. He was sinking into a rosemary bliss, a cherry blossomed heaven and it was torture. It was agony to feel her touch his skin so gently, agony to know that this kindness had never been present in Emis touch. He could see now just how easily he'd been fooled, how hungry for the one thing he'd wanted he'd been and how easily that hunger had destroyed him.

*Destroyed, destroying. You're a destroyer Noctis. You lost the right to want this after the first innocent death by your hands.* A voice, his voice but cruel, twisted and hateful. A voice he'd never heard before but yet was sure was his own. Where the hell had it come from. The voice screamed in rage and fear and then suddenly it winked out as her light flooded him, and he looked down to see the dark orb being destroyed. As she seems to experience some backlash, his own hands gently find her elbows and offer her support. His touch is light but firm, a gentle but unshakeable foundation for her to lean on if for only a moment. As she straightens up so to do his hands come away and he raises his shirt up. All that would be there was the smooth planes of muscle, no scars. He'd only ever gotten one scar. 

"You okay?" He asks, his voice softer. Without realizing, his eyes were silver once more, the grey gone. There was concern in his voice, genuine and true, for the moment entirely forgetful that he'd convinced himself to shatter her image in his mind. They stood only a foot apart, so close he could but lean and touch her, gazing down at her with a furrowed brow.
Monte
"I am quite alright."

*Esme brings her gaze back up, the witch's traditional smile returning as she beams in radiance. The weave around her lessens and the girl can be seen breathing softly. Her hands clasped together in front of her, it's as if Esme hadn't been affected at all. Temporary side effects, ones that can be ignored. What type of healer would she be if she faltered after each time anyways?*

"You need not worry for me. It's simply been a few months since I last destroyed corruption. I will be fine."

*There seems to be no hint of trouble on her. If anything, Esme looks completely normal. Though her eyes do trail down, seeing the lack of scar and giving a sigh of relief as she closes her eyes. Even if it is expected with her magic. Esme worries all the same each time she casts. She can heal at the snap of the fingers, efficient and quick. But there will always be that concern of lasting effects. Trailing up her gaze, she can see that Noctis seems normal. In fact, she sees that returning light in his eyes as a sign that he is okay. Which causes her to theorize that the reason he was so distant prior was because he was unnerved.*

"If you have any strong feelings or sense. Let me know immediately. You can never be too sure." *She says, her voice still lingering... That lullaby still playing yet it seems Esme herself cannot hear it. Even as she pulls away to allow them space, the rosemary scent remains. It is as if they are just centimeters apart yet she now stands a few feet away.*
Cynthia
"I-" He cuts himself off. He doesn't have strong feelings, she's just pretty. She's just pretty, that was it. She was a very beautiful woman and he'd been asleep for two thousand years, it was just a chemical reaction to him meeting a woman he was attracted to. There was nothing more to it. That was believable, understandable even. 

"Sure, I'll let you know." He finally says, his hands twitching as she moves away as if he wishes to draw her back. Taking a deep breath, fine with letting her think he's trying to calm his nerves, he takes in her scent to hold in his lungs for just a few more moments. He'd fought scourges of evil before, he'd wandered into the lands beyond where the sun never rose and the ground whispered all the ways you'd die. 

He'd faced children of Titanos and children of the magic mother, been thrown like a rag doll and had meteors dropped on him. He'd survived all of that but one pretty witch fucked him up so royally he felt like a child in the presence of giants. 

"Fuck me." He mutters aloud, and then clears his throat. "Come on, let's get moving. See you in less than an hour." He'd say to the hole and the Pukwudgies orange hair would pop out and he'd nod, offering an awkward thumbs up before going back to playing cats cradle. 

Enhancing his senses, he crept out of the room and led them towards a large tunnel entrance. It was dark, and he paused. 

"Hold my hand. It'll be dark, and we shouldn't use any light. I can get around the dark fine." He said and held his hand out for her to take. Whether or not she did, he'd shut off his sense of sight entirely and allocate those "Stats" To his sense of hearing and touch. It was a way to navigate the dark as well as the day, a useful trick of his enhancement magic. His long slender fingers if taken would twine with hers to secure the grip, and his touch would be gentle if a bit hesitant around the fingertips.
Monte
*Being observant has it's perks. Esme may not be a mind reading but she can still tell something is off. Is he... Frustrated? Noctis is jittery and the more she ponders over it, the more it makes no sense. He is a man that has fought wars and likely been in way worse situations. So this shouldn't be anything that would invoke fear or uncertainty. She may be naive but she is not blind.*

"Okay." *Esme mumbles as she starts to follow beside him.*

*Was his cursing a lashing out? Esme doesn't know but she cannot ponder over this. Her mind needs to be focused on keeping themselves alive and stopping this problem. The blood of the creatures they pass oozes with foul energy and at first, Esme is worried about it seeping into the ground. Which is exactly why she raises a hand and up sprout the small start of seeds. Of course they're a lot bigger now given their tiny size.*

"Let's hope this cavern is not too big." *She grumbles, already unhappy of the thought of possibly going into a cave maze.*

"Bring buried alive is not my preference. I'd rather pass on the seaside, overlooking the setting sun where the colors of the sky dance warm. To be a memory left down by the sea... To be left in my final thoughts and mine alone- oh this is grim, sorry."
Cynthia
"Oh no please do go on, not all the time someone writes their obituary out for you early. Yes, I can see the bards singing it now." He whispers back, his hand gently holding hers as he guides them through the dark. 

"The demigod who passed through legend, born and rose again, did travel to the witches home in hopes to find a friend, but then she got him buried alive and he was suddenly dead." He sing whispers, chuckling darkly. The tunnel stretched out in front of them, but by the echoes of their whispers he determined that after about five minutes they'd indeed come out into a cavern. What lay within that cavern... He wasn't eager to know. 

"Never pictured you wanting to be by the seaside. I suspect you'll get to visit it with me, I have a companion who's life is bound to it."
Monte
*In most situations, Esme would have long separated herself physically from anyone. But she is still human and the darkness is not kind to her. She can shine brighter than the stars but her light does not exactly transfer to her eyesight. It's a miracle she isn't tripping on her own feet given her boots. So using Noctis as a pseudo-crutch is most preferred. She even grips her hand tighter as her gaze flickers around to try and make out whatever details she can. The smell is horrid but it is at least muted thanks to Noctis' presence.*

"My intention is to not allow you to perish here." *She feigns a dramatic and offended sigh. Playing around only briefly before she falls silent again.*
"The seaside is beautiful, I have been only once... I think..."

*Then Esme falls silent as if the memory had escaped her mid conversation. Did she even visit it? Or was it a mere dream, many visions from the weave that have held hidden meanings behind them. Her sight flickers and with a shake of her head, she suppresses her concerns. Nervously chuckling as they walk, now attempting to change subject. She doesn't remember how she got the desire to visit it or even why. Yet the thought alone calls to her and no matter how hard she tries, Esme cannot completely ignore it.*

"I wonder if the creatures we seen were mere grubs. I worry for what their ruler will be."
Cynthia
"Just let me take point and you cover with your magic, I'm sure we will be fine. If I had Ebony this wouldn't be half of an issue." He said in an almost grumble. His enchanted longsword was a powerful sword that could cut stone as easily as it might paper without ever damaging its edge. It would have been more than enough to strike both creatures down safely. Now however he was forced to rely on Esmes magical abilities which he could admit so far were considerable. 

"I've always wanted to fly." He says suddenly, thinking of her comments on the sea. "I learned to float, but flying with wind magic is much harder. Still, something about the way birds just... Drift so lazily up there in circles. Would be nice wouldnt it?" He muses before laughing. 

"You can turn into a bird, of course you know. What's it like? Tell me." He says, turning so they're standing face to face. In the pitch black and with his blindness neither can see each other, but boths proximity would nearly erase the putrid smell for the moment until they continued. 

He was pausing to get a count of creatures without striking alarm, he could hear shifting footsteps within the cavern, at least five... And there was something else, he couldn't figure out what. A puzzle piece was missing.
Monte
"Understood, tread carefully please." *Esme nods.*

*Though is no place to discuss dreams and desires. Esme can at least appreciate the willingness to discuss them. Even in a gloom situation, there is a childlike wonder that comes from it. One that she can appreciate and helps in regards to keeping a good outlook about this situation. Only two beasts have been felled, they are timed and there can be armies down here. If that were the case... No, it's best not to think about. Beach sides and flight, beach sides and flight.*

"It is a lovely thing." *Esme admits, giving a nod as she cannot help but smile.*
"The world is ever expanding, the view from above is truly freeing... It makes you feel... True bliss. I get a sensation that does not stop, an eternal longing... A deepness in your chest that can never be filled yet you crave more... Truly living in the moment with yourself and the sky."

*Esme doesn't realize that she is describing love. Clutching her chest, the girl cannot stop smiling. She is a songbird, free... At least she can experience it in small bursts. The witch has obligations. She cannot love, she cannot take mana for herself and most importantly she cannot truly bond. Yet with the sky, she can experience all three. Her orbs fill with dreams and she cannot help but feel the pain in her cheeks. To be up there again... What she would give right now to fly.*

"Words cannot describe it, I just can only wish to fly with-" *She suddenly stops whispering as she hears footsteps. Her gaze slowly shifts towards Noctis and then she gives a nod. Letting him know that she is at the ready.*
Cynthia
Noctis could *Hear* Her smile, it was so evident in his voice and he couldn't see it. The very idea that he was missing something like that hurt so terribly in his chest that he nearly blew their cover just to create light to see it. Yet he hadn't lost his mind that far, but perhaps he was close. As she was finishing speaking, before that beam could fade from her face, his hand came up and cupped her cheek- wanting to feel how it curved into a smile. 

Everything she said seemed to ring like a bell within his head and then echo again in his chest, flooding his body with warmth. He'd pushed this topic to keep morale up. He'd fought denizens of the dark before, they grew stronger and you weaker when you felt fear and hate, but positive emotions had the reverse effect. 

With a shock he realized what he'd done- his hand coming to rest on her face just as she was about to react to the footsteps. When she did he jerked his hand from her face and cleared his throat. Hopefully she wouldn't ask for an explanation, ever. He'd likely be spared any immediate questions. 

"Okay, we have the jump on them. I'm blind right now, but these creatures I think have dark sight. When we get to the entrance I want you to create as bright of a light as possible- and then prepare to cleanse again. I'm going to try and blitz the first of them, it's near the entrance. There's two to the right, one on the far left and a final one across the room. There's something in the very center of the cavern... A pit or a whole or something. Pick a target and I'll make sure nothing gets to you." He whispers fiercely and quickly to her, leaning close to her so only she will catch it, before pulling her along by the hand to the mouth of the cavern where a creature can be heard sniffing the air, detecting something off. It was now or never- he let go of her hand to allow her to cast.
Monte
*Pained with the muscles in her face, suddenly Esme's eyes go wide. As she exchanges a glance over with Noctis. The witch falls speechless, her smile promptly dropping as she is caught by surprise. Practically frozen, she does not even get a chance to react as Noctis is quick to pull away. This causes her not to speak up in general. As the many why's swim in her head, whispering in her ears as she cannot understand his actions. Is it happening again? Esme wonders... Just how many of suitors became enamored? How many made claims of conquest, to subdue the witch and call her their own? All have failed but these attempts have never been good. They have lead to heartbreak and Esme feeling pity despite their illogical actions.*

*So she hopes that Noctis is not the same... Otherwise... Flash imagery of a purple sky, darkened clouds and rain. Without realizing it, Esme reaches up to touch her cheek. Perhaps to Noctis she may just be flustered, typical of Esme. But to the witch, she can feel each droplet on her face. No, it is time to push those hazed memories again... Then a voice.*

***Esme...*** *It whispers, oh mother sweet mother.*

*A moment of bliss shortly ended, Esme becomes completely focused on surviving. Dreams of flight must wait until after. Internalizing the orders, Esme is already at the ready to jump on short notice. Creating light was one of the first things she had learned to do as a young witch. To take energy, rile it up to have a reaction thus light was born. Of course at that time there were very few of her sisters who passed the first trial and even fewer who were able to properly cast the light. A small orb is created in her hand, reminiscent of the first orb she had ever made with the other children surrounding her... The curiousity, the envy and the amazement. Now it is to be used for a different meaning and as her palm is closed, snuffing out the tiny light. Esme can put the past behind her.*

"I am ready. Be careful. We do not know the effects of this darkness and you are not immune from falling corrupt."

*She then stands proud, still behind and waiting for the first signal. She will attack the backline so that Noctis will not be surrounded.*
Cynthia
"Now!" He'd hiss and when she released the light, he'd dash forward as all five creatures would hiss in fury at the sudden appearance of light. Their night attuned eyes being suddenly flooded with that much light would virtually blind them for a few moments, causing them to stagger around. Noctis didn't hesitate and dashed forward, uppercutting the first and feel his bones creak against their rock hair skin but not break. As it's head whipped back, he thrust with his shortsword and merely pierced its eye. 

Pushing the attack before it could recover, he dodged two blind swipes and moved behind it, wrenching it back by a horn protruding from its head to stab the shortsword into its mouth as he had the one before. He'd killed it and managed to avoid being slashed this time. 

However he was now being rush by one from either side. Wrenching the blade free, he threw the dead body at one of them causing it to go down in a flurry of feet and arms, and spun to strike the other in the head with the flat of the blade and knock it sideways into the dirt. 

Flames leapt into existence around his head and his eyesight returned, and he was suddenly attack by the three closest, the final creature in the back was different however. 

The same size as the others, this one had a long black tail with a spear like tip. The tip quivered and seemed to be following Noctis' movements as he dodged, slashed, blocked and parried. 

A keen eye would notice that the tail behind the blade like tip was bulging and getting wider, building up air, building up... Pressure... It was going to *Fire* The spear tip right at Noctis who was distracted with three assailants and entirely unaware of the danger.
Monte
*After Esme ignites the room in light, she is quick to follow up with Noctis' initial rush. Her hurried steps move towards him, standing close enough as she is able to see a bigger scope of the area than he is given his predicament. Where as once she spoke in common speak, she now completely reverts to her mother tongue to cast spells. Her voice is deeper, aggressive and the runes around her body start to glow as she scowls in front of her.*

"Val'te thulum!" *Esme commands.*

*Where as the bolt cold be uttered in a small whisper. She now has to cast a full incantation to command forth such power. The ground around her shakes and without a seconds notice. The earth begins to split into two. It's dangerous given they are underground. But she cannot chance Noctis getting mortally injured. Thus, she casts the spell: Rupture.*

*Earthen molds begin to spike up, perhaps even catching one of the three that surrounds Noctis off guard as the magic is sent forwards towards... Well what she thinks to be one of the bigger goonies. It is laced in radiance, and as the ground splits. These same crystaline spikes attempt to make their way towards their intended target. To change the light blue of the ends to a deepened red... Or black depending on how they bleed.*

"Strike when they are staggered!" *Esme gasps out as her palm extends out, her grimoire floating now ready to cast another spell.*
Cynthia
The smaller creatures with blade like fingers all scatter as the spell comes towards them, one of them being struck in the shoulder and knock off balance- and Noctis pounces as soon as he sees a weakness. He looks more akin to a feral animal, pouncing and wrenching the creatures mouth open to stab into its brain. 

The one that would have shot Noctis misses, the spear tip instead impaling into the wall only a few feet from Esmes chest. The creature with the tail manages to dodge the spells attack for the most part, getting grazed on the leg, and scrambles to the side. It's tail shudders and another spear like tip grows out of the hole left behind by the previous blade. 

Air bulges once again in the tail as it aims at Esme this time, determining her to be the bigger threat. 

Noctis now uses some of the protruding spikes to put between him and the remaining two, always however keeping himself between Esme and the two with bladed fingers. 

The tail shooter fires the spear tip at Esme however, the point flying towards her chest unless she can dodge it or deflect it with magic. 

"Esme!" Noctis shouts as he finally notices at the last moment the bulging tail- when it's fired off he's distracted just long enough to be caught by a back hand that luckily doesn't cut him- but knocks him onto his ass, forcing him to furiously go on the defensive as they try to pounce on him.
Monte
*Esme has had her eyes glued on the creature since the moment they stepped foot in the entry way. She is no rogue that can flip out of any ounce of danger, nor is she a large warrior whose constitution can rival the gods. No, she relies on magic to get what she needs done and with the crystalline spikes already grown. Instead of using the spell offensively, she switches her tactics to defensive. With a graceful motion, drawing an elipse with her pointed foot. The earthen magic follows point, raising a minor wall to take the projectile before it shatters completely.*

*With a deep breath, Esme is aware she will need to be cautious on how she spends her energy from here on out. Rupture will not be able to be used again so quickly and if she is to avoid any further attacks, then she must rely on her other talents.*

*Now sidestepping to put some distance between herself and the creatures on Noctis. She decides the ranged user must be dealt with immediately. But now he has put himself in her direct line of fire. No problem, she can switch targets. Her focus then returns to the other two melee users. Her heels clicking twice as she readies another energy bolt. Magic cackling off of her body like electric sparks, overloaded and ready to be unleashed. Her eyes a faint shade of crimson, mimicking the dawning sun. Her casting can leave her vulnerable, but it is a risk she must now take after avoiding a possible lethal blow. So long as Esme can heal, then it matters not how many times she is struck.*
Cynthia
Managing to roll away from the onslaught, Noctis scrambles to his feet and kicks a creature backwards away from him. 

"Switch!" He calls, and he charges at one of the creatures. It ducks low and clamps it's jaws shut, having seen the tricks Noctis has used on its fallen brethren. However instead he jumped and landed on its head, launching himself off of it and stunning it, instead aiming for the creature with a tail. 

One creature chased after Noctis and the other staggered around stunned, primed for a bolt to take it out as Noctis landed in front of the one with the deadly tail. Instead of shooting the bladed tip out however, it lashed at him like a whip with a loud crack. He managed to roll to avoid the first and block the second, but it struck so fast that it was obvious it would overwhelm him in time- and the third creature that was still alive and not stunned was creeping up behind him.
Monte
*To attack the already faltering one for a kill for her own or to save Noctis. Esme will always prioritize the safety of others and her special abilities in the weave show her the different outcomes.*

*As if time stops for a moment, the world becoming grey. Esme can see the creature rushing forward just as she shoots a bolt at the other. But Noctis takes a nasty blow to the back. No, he doesn't die. Esme can see this much in this brief vision of woe. He will be injured and even if he is able to quickly recover. Who is to say that the creature with the tail will not seize the oppurtnity.*

*The a vision of will, to send a bolt flying forward and thwart the plans of the stalker. There is no second thought as the grey around the world completely fades and time resumes for Esme. Her body is promptly turned towards the stalker, shooting the bolt directly at the beast to cover for Noctis. She will not let him get severely hurt, not here.*

*But was it the right move?*

*Such visions only show a small fraction of a bigger picture. Esme could have just bought time for the already weakened one to recover. But with her natural wit and quick thinking, she assumes they can react better to one that is already injured rather than a creature who is completely healthy. The witch, now running forward, begins her second incantation to cast another energy bolt. She needs to keep close to Noctis just in case something happens. Esme is no fool and she is aware she is opened up due to her casting choice. She can just hope that the creature will take too long to regain its strength and adrenaline to bolster up and attack her.*
Cynthia
The bolt strikes the stalker true and with a screech the cleansing light magic sears the corruption from it, leaving it nothing but a smoking husk. With that Noctis is able to stand his ground against the whip like creature by igniting his shortsword, the blade becoming wreathed in flames and causing the creature to shrink back. Pressing the attack, he's forced to stay focused on his opponent while the other creature... 

Well it was only kicked in the head, and these creatures were resilient. As Esme rushes towards Noctis, the creature notices her and begins to charge her on all fours. It's body is wiry, covered in jagged black spikes and it's blade like fingers coated in that black substance that Bukka had warned them against. It's teeth gnashed and it's red eyes honed in on her, it could taste her, it would rip her flesh and drink her life away. 

It lunged itself through the air as she was speaking her incantation. That was when the flaming shortsword was thrown across the cavern and knocked the creature off course, giving Esme time to finish her incantation. Noctis had thrown his only weapon across the room to defend Esme. 

Now weaponless, he managed to sidestep the creatures tail strike and grabbed the appendage, but this would prove a terrible error. The tail twisted and wrapped around his arm and he used his inhuman strength to kick it and try to knock it away- but the creature lost its footing and stumbled too far. It fell backwards into a pit, the large pit that Noctis had mentioned before and with its tail wrapped around Noctis, it dragged him with it. 

"Shit!" Noctis shouted, and as he fell his silver eyes found Esme. Just as his head went over the edge and he was lost to the darkness, he flashed her an encouraging smile... And was gone. 

Esme was left alone with the final creature, which was slowly recovering from being hit by the flaming shortsword. It snarled and bared it's teeth at the witch.
Monte
*Esme gasps as the sword is pierced into the monster that had charged after her. Quickly looking over her shoulder at it's now wounded body. The other part of the future that her visions did not show her. Of course, she should have known better. There is always an equal exchange, even in fate. Nothing is ever certain when you have mere seconds of a possibility before you rather than a full story. Still, she is grateful for Noctis' quick thinking but upon realizing that the sword is here with her...*

"Oh no..." *She suddenly gasps, whipping her head in the direction of Noctis as the creature takes an oppurtunity.*

*She doesn't have time to react and her spell needs a proper incantation to cast. Her teeth grit and her body tense. As Noctis is but a mere flash of a vision before her, in blink of an eye he is gone. Then she hears the slow snarling rising from behind her. Slowly she turns around feeling great despair as the two have been separated. Her brow tilted down as she grows enraged. The flaming blade at her fingertips, kneeling down and grabbing hold of it. A hilt that had not been touched in so long.*

"You hold it just like this Esme." *A mysterious voice tells her in the back of her head. A deeper but gentle voice of a man who she does not know yet... There is a calling within for her to remember. The smell of the sea side, then laughter. As her breathing becomes stable, the witch holds out the blade. She can feel a warmth on her back, a beating heart and two larger hands clasped over her own.*

***Focus!*** *Suddenly the voice of 'mother' commands and Esme is sent rushing forwards, the vision of what could have been answers fading as quickly as it came. The tip of the sword slices against and partially through the ground as she drags it up, charging at the very beast that had once charged her. Her grip firm, she then lets out a battle cry as she tries to swing the blade down while it is still stunned.*

*Yet in the back of her mind, she screams. Not out of fear for her own life. But out of the fear that Noctis could meet his end, a demigod felled due to her own incompetence. The world is silence for all but the sound of her own breathing and the laughter she heard prior. As mysterious as it is, is promptly replaced with the laughter of the raven-haired man. The one who she had visions of prior before their initial meeting.*
Cynthia
Driven by some supernatural power, the blade cleanly slices through the body and cleaves it in two. The darkness seeps out of it and is burned away by the demigods fire which after a moment, flickers out of existence. The cavern is quiet and empty, no noises escape from the pit and the darkness becomes heavy. There's a dripping sound, followed by quiet and hateful whispers. 

**"Beware the black blood."** 

Four dead bodies, one missing creature, one missing demigod and a witch. 

There are no beds in here or campfire, however there is a pile of bones- mouse bones to be exact. There are also some Pukwudgie spears and bows tossed into a corner, as well as an old dusty crate. 

If Esme creates light, she will see that there is are also two tunnels, one that goes upwards and one that slopes down on the other end of the room where the shooter had initially been. 

Lastly, near her feet would be a healing potion. It seemed Noctis had managed to pull it out and throw it towards her in case she'd been wounded by the creature.
Monte
*As the creature is cleaved, Esme has to take a moment to catch her breath. Though she dares not to take long as she kneels down, grabbing the healing potion and rushing towards the hole he had fallen into. With every step she takes, her magic heightened by emotion she had worked for years to conceal. Now sprouts tiny buds. If she wasn't so tiny, they would have grown into proper flowers. She is careful not to even step on the blood, being away of the iron she holds as she doesn't even want to chance any of the blood getting on it. She moves cautiously, hovering a hand over the flat end of the blade to make sure it is properly purified as she looks into the pit.*

"Noctis?" *She hesitantly calls, afraid of attracted more unwanted attention.*

*She needs to hear him call back. The thought of progressing doesn't cross her mind. Her new objective is to find him and once that is done, they can choose to continue or retreat. But what is most important is that it is a decision that they come to together.*

"Noctis!" *Esme calls out a bit louder with a hint of desperation in her voice.*

*The bones do not phase her, not even the smell anymore. What does have her concerned is that he could be severely injured with no way of Esme being able to reach him. The light in her hand flutters as her magic attempts to spike. But she has trained for this. Esme can be worried, she can be concerned. But she must not panic. So she waits, pleading mentally that she will receive an answer.*
Cynthia
*"Noctis!"* 

"Noctis!" Running through the snow, the ten year old giggled as his mother chased after him with a smile on her face. They were playing foxes and rabbits, and today he was going to win. He'd make her say she gives up and they'd go home and eat stew, carve figures to go gift the giant friends and chase willow wisps at night. 

*"Wake my son."* 

Sinking, sinking- no, running, yes. 

Through the snow, ducking beneath a tree to avoid her line of sight. Forming a snowball he exploded out from behind. 

*The creatures tail lashed at him and he fought, gripping it just beneath the blade and pushing it-* 

*"Gotcha!"* His mother shouted and tackled her son into the snow, the pair laughing. As Noctis wriggled free and his head broke the thick snow, his eyes fell on a woman with pink hair and eyes flashing like the sun at dawn, freckles upon her face. She was so beautiful. Why was she here, was she calling his name? 

*Black blood filled the pool as the creature died, black blood flooded his lungs- burning, screaming. Push, swim, fight. What was her name?* 

Sitting beneath the stars, they ate their stew in happy silence and watched the first wisps come out to play, a parade of sprites left the woods and headed to a ring of toadstools. 

"I saw a woman today mom. She looked like a sunset." 

"Oh yeah?" She said with a laugh. "Maybe she's a wicked witch from the woods. They snatch the hearts of pretty boys like you away and never give them back." She teased, nudging him. 

"Oh really? Well she can keep mine." He said, grinning even as she boxed his ears with a barking laugh. 


*Noctis crawled from the pool only halfway before his sore muscles and bones gave way. He collapsed into the mud, whispers flooding his mind, the World dark, dark. 

"Noctis!" Her voice was barely an echo of an echo, and his final thought before passing out was just how much he would have liked to see that smile she'd had in the tunnel. 

- - - - 

No response came, no noise. Just the eve

R hateful whispers. If she listened close, she could hear some of their words. 

*"Dead, long dead. Dead like the rest. - we hunger. Abandoned again. Lead them to their doom. Fault. R faul-"*

You're alone now, Esme. Two tunnels, a dark pit and a room full of death.
Monte
*While Noctis remains trapped within his own conscious, Esme holds her breath to the silence that surrounds her. The whispers become like screams, piercing her ears like daggers that threaten to dig into her. Searing and hot, ignited in flame and insufferable. Her pulse quickens and her breathing becomes rapid. Then she stops again, this time, her eyes slowly opening as she tightens her grip around the blade.*

*She could turn around, hope that Noctis will be strong enough to get out. Yes, that is what the Twilight witch should do. He has a duty and if one is sacrificed for a greater good, then the choice should be quite obvious. Whatever lays in wait for her there, shall not cast darkness on the rising light that is Esme. She is a truth-sayer, a vice against the unnatural, the light that show cause she shadows to where they belong. That is her promise, that is her obligation. Her face expressionless, her breathing rocking steady now as she looks down into the drop.*

"I am sorry... But I have made a promise..." *She whispers under her breath, but to whom or to what?*

*So the decision is made and Esme takes a single step back. She does not waver nor does she seem hesitant in her choice. The blade held close and the witch gives a proper tip of the hat. For she has an obligation-*

"To your safety." *Esme declares as she then rushes forwards, taking a leap before she fades into a bundle of feathers. Out comes a beautiful songbird who's feathers shimmer and iridescent opal. Each one is like a gem, made to perfection and the light radiates off of her body. Illuminating the darkness down as she tucks in her wings. Years she has spent flying above, to soar into the light. Yet for the first time, she dives beak first into the darkness.*

*Praying Noctis can hear her... The songbird sings. The song she hummed when she strolled down the streets of Marsalus, the song she danced to in front of the moonlit lake, the song she playfully hummed with Sweet Tooth in the morning... The song she had been singing to Noctis in the middle of the night when he had slept. He may not have been aware but she had kept watch. At first out of an initial concern which turned into curiosity. Such actions that were not admited yet hinted to by the probable familiarity of the tune she had been singing since he woke. It is as if the song bird is calling out to him and she will not stop until he is found.*