|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 5, 2014 6:53:35 GMT -6
"So the man who went missing is your husband?" You ask.
The woman nods, and you bow your head in sympathy. "Don't worry miss. We'll do our best to find him. Now, can you tell me when and where you last saw your husband?"
"He vanished a little over a week ago," the young woman replies quietly. "He works at the port, and one night, he... He just didn't come home. Some of the other sailors went looking for him, and they too vanished. I... I just want him home."
You nod, and slowly rise to your feet. "I understand. If all goes well, you should have your husband back by tomorrow evening. Until then, miss. I take my leave."
You give a polite, formal bow and turn to leave, and Kanis quickly follows you. "Wait!"
Yoi halt, surprised, as the grieving woman bolts to her feet. "I have something that might help. It belongs to my husband, but if it can help you save him, then I'm sure he won't mind."
She disappears into the lone bedroom and returns moments later, holding an ancient spear with three heads, almost like a trident. It's obviously seen better days, but beneath the rust, you catch subtle glimpses of majesty and power. Well isn't this interesting... Where the heck did a port worker get his hands on something like that?
Not wanting to be rude, you humbly accept the gift, and with one last promise to return her husband to her, you walk back out into the cold night air.
*You received the Rusty Spear!(50/50 Mt 5 Hit 80 Crit 0 Rng 1 des- An ancient spear covered in rust. Maybe a skilled Blacksmith could do something with this...)*
"Why do you do that?" Kanis asks suddenly, her voice unusually soft, and tinged with concern. "Why make promises you know you can't keep? If the Culture is really behind this, her husband is already dead. You know that as well as I do. So then why...?"
You give a sad smile. Ah, so that's what this is about... Seeing that woman must have really hit home, since she's still worried about losing me. My poor Kanis...
"It's because I already know he's dead that I did make that promise, Kanis. She'll need someone to blame, if she's to recover from such a loss. Someone to hate. And since we can't tell her about the Culture, that only leaves me, no?"
Kanis stops in her tracks, furiously shaking her head and rubbing her eyes. You realize with a start there are tears in her eyes. "But why do you have to play the martyr, Trail? It's not fair..."
Sighing, you quickly pull her into your arms. "Because that's my job, Kanis. You know that. And if my life has taught me anything, it's that life is never fair. But don't worry. I won't leave you alone. You and our children are everything to me. You are my entire world... And I have every intention of annoying you for decades to come. So cheer up, alright? The last thing I want is to make my wife cry."
She takes a shaky breath, and steps out of your arms. She smiles. "You're too damn nice, you know that?"
You shrug. "I've been accused of worse."
Heck, you were even executed for said accusations. Well, almost. Still... You aren't as nice as she thinks. Something the Culture is going to learn the hard way. No one upsets your wife and lives to brag about it. No one.
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 5, 2014 18:39:57 GMT -6
Dolin x Eva A
"Sir, may I perchance interest you in anything? A new spear, perhaps? A fine suit of chain mail? Or... Maybe a shiny necklace for your lady friend?"
Dolin smiles at the enthusiastic merchant, pleasantly surprised. "Dunno yet. Just browsin. But if I may be so bold, you seem... Rather chipper, considering the state of the town. I didn't expect to find any merchants at their stalls, let alone one as cheerful as yourself. I'm a bit impressed."
The colorful merchant gives a light laugh, though Dolin notices a hint of nervousness in the laugh. "Thank you for the compliment, milord, but of course I'm scared. I'm no fool, mind you. But I have a family to feed. And the city still has to live. If all business shut down, what good would it do? Not a whole heck of a lot, I say. Though between you and me, now that Lord Drakia himself and his crew are in town, I think things may be a changing. By the way... Pardon my impudence good sir, but you wouldn't be a part of said company, would you?"
Dolin gives a proud nod, and his smile widens a bit. "Aye, indeed I would. But I'm just an old soldier in His Majesty's employ. No one special."
The merchant scoffs. "Ah, don't be so modest. You're still here to help the town, ain't ya? That makes you a hero in my books. Tell ya what. I've got a half price discount with your name on it, on everything I got. Well, within reason of course."
"Oooh... In that case Dol, maybe you could buy me a shiny necklace after all?"
He turns at the familiar voice, and mixed feelings erupt within him, as the beautiful woman almost materializes next to him. He forces a smile, and Eva smiles back.
"Didn't I buy you something shiny just the other day?" He asks, amused.
Eva giggles. "I'm kidding, Dol. You don't need to buy me anything. I think our relationship is well past that by now, hmm? Still, it would be such a shame to waste the man's generosity..."
He rolls his eyes. This woman... She truly is incredible. In more ways than one. In the end, he ends up buying an Elixir, instead of a necklace.
"An Elixir?" She asks, bemused.
He nods, smiling slightly. "Because I can't stand the thought of you being hurt. I'd much prefer you to have something practical, something that could heal you, then another bauble."
Eva's eyes soften into a look of adoration, and before he can react, she pulls him into her arms for a rather long kiss. He steps away, stunned, while Eva blushes a bit. She shifts her feet nervously. "Sorry. I um... Kinda got carried away. Maybe we could go sit down?"
He nods, still a bit taken aback, and she leads him to the town square. They sit on the same bench, and Eva tentatively leans her head on his shoulder. The pair sit in silence for a while, before Eva finally decides to ask a surprising question.
"Dol? Why did you become a soldier? I mean, you used to be an actor right?"
Well... That's a loaded question. He takes a deep breath. "No use in hiding it, I suppose. I guess... It was because I wanted to become stronger. I watched my parents die when I was young. They were murdered right in front of me... All for the gold in their pockets. I was completely helpless then. If it weren't for a certain somebody, I probably wouldn't be alive today. That's all there is to it, I guess..."
"I'm sorry," Eva apologizes softly, taking his hand in hers. "I never knew."
He shakes his head. "No, it's alright. There's no reason for you to apologize, Eva."
Especially not to me... I don't deserve it... I don't deserve you...
"Dol...? No, it can't be... Dol, is that you?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 6, 2014 9:16:11 GMT -6
Dolin looks over his shoulder, surprised at the unfamiliar voice, and the sheer amount of raw emotion contained within it. Wait... Isn't that the girl Leah and Lord Lazareth brought back from the other world? What was her name... Kara? He hadn't been there when Leah introduced her to everyone earlier, so this is technically his first time meeting her. And yet... From the look on her face, she clearly recognizes him.
Dolin gently pries Eva from him and rises to his feet. "You're Kara, correct? Do I know you?"
Tears well up in her eyes, and the stricken look on her face would be enough to break any man's heart. "No... I... I guess not. Forgive me... I thought you were someone else..."
Before he can say anything else, the girl takes off running in the opposite direction, back towards the Inn. Confused and a little worried, he sits back down, and Eva gives him an odd look.
"You sure you don't know her?"
He shakes his head. "I've never met the girl before in my life."
------
Leah x Kara C
"Kara, there you are!" Leah exclaims in relief. "I've been looking for you everywhere! You almost gave me a heart attack!"
The darn Demighost had disappeared almost half an hour ago, and Leah had been running around like a headless chicken looking for her ever since. And now, here she is, right back in her room, dangling her feet over the edge of the bed.
"Sorry," Kara apologizes softly, refusing to meet her gaze.
Leah immediately softens. You'd have to be blind to miss the aura of sorrow enveloping the poor girl. Leah plops down on the bed next to her, gently wrapping an arm around Kara's shoulders. "Kara sweetheart, what's wrong? Cmon K, you're worrying me..."
Kara takes a shaky breath, and Leah realizes with a start she had been crying. Oh Kara... "You should have warned me, Leah. About... About him. He... He looks just like..."
Oh... Oh. She means Dolin... "I'm so sorry," Leah breathes quietly. "I was going to tell you, but I couldn't find the right time... Believe me Kara, I didn't want you to find out this way..."
She wipes her eyes and lays her head in Leah's lap. "Don't worry... I... I'll be fine. I was just so shocked is all... But I know he isn't my Dol. My Dol is gone..."
Kara bursts into silent, wracking sobs, and all Leah can do is try her best to comfort her. "You still have me, Kara. And Lazzy. And Trail. And everyone else. You aren't alone, Kara. We're your family now."
Kara's shoulders slowly stop shaking, and she sighs. "Yeah... I know. You're right. Thanks Leah... I don't know what I'd do without you."
Leah giggles softly. "Well, you'd probably get lost, for starters. But you won't ever have to worry about that. I'll always be here for you, Kara. No matter what."
She smiles. "I'll hold you to that."
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 7, 2014 18:28:00 GMT -6
Leah x Eva C
"So, how is she?"
Leah steps out of her room, rubbing her eyes in exhaustion. She notices Eva leaning against the wall right beside her room, and blinks in surprise. "She'll be alright. She's sleeping soundly now."
Eva nods, and the relief etched across her face is clear. "Good... That's a relief. Both Dol and I were really worried. I'm not going to pretend to understand what she must be going through... But I do know what loss feels like. The girl's lucky to have you, Leah."
Leah smiles at that. "Thanks... But surely you didn't come all the way up here just to check on Kara. I mean, I'm not trying to be rude... But it's not like you, Eva."
Eva looks away, but not before Leah catches a brief look of hurt on her face. "So it's not like me to be concerned with the health of someone important to my friend? Do you really think me that ruthless?"
Leah immediately turns contrite, and she shakes her head. "No, of course not. I didn't mean it like that... It's just... You're usually so efficient, is all. I was coming back downstairs anyway. You could have just waited for me."
Eva gives a small smile, and for some reason, she appears almost... Nervous. "Well, you are right, in a way. There is something I want to ask you. You... Use Dark Magic, right? Could... Could you teach me?"
Wait... Really? Well... She certainly didn't expect that. "I guess I could... But Dark Magic is a tricky thing to learn. Out of all the Ancient Magics, it's easily the hardest to master. Why do you want to learn it?"
Eva looks away again. "Forgive me... I'm not ready to answer that just yet. But... This isn't just some whim. I need this, Leah. Please."
The amount of raw emotion in her voice worries Leah, but in the end, she relents. "Alright. I trust you, Eva. I know you wouldn't ask without a good reason. I'll try my best to teach you. Just remember, I'm not exactly a Sorceress myself. Now, I think I have Flux Time hidden somewhere... Or we can go visit Helga."
Eva gives a light laugh. "I dunno about that... That woman scares me."
Leah giggles. "Yeah, Helga scares everyone."
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 9, 2014 0:11:33 GMT -6
All of the other houses are the same. Inside every one, you find a desperate family, pining for the return of their loved ones. And every time, you promise to return their loved ones to them, knowing full well their loved ones are surely dead. Your poor Kanis grows more and more depressed after every visit, and by the time you've finally finished your rounds, she's barely holding herself together. You desperately try to console her, but at this point, you're unsure if it's even wise to bring her along tomorrow. You aren't sure if she's battle ready anymore, and you only have a few hours before dawn...
"Kanis darling, why don't we go visit the Night Market now? It may not be much... But it's still something."
She nods numbly, almost as if her thoughts are miles away. Or... Almost like she's lost her will... No. I can't entertain that possibility. It's my responsibility as her husband and friend to ensure she never loses her resolve. I made a promise to Garm...
You lead her to the open market surrounding the Town Square, where surprisingly, a couple merchants still guard their stalls. One appears to be a jewelry merchant, and the other, an arms dealer.
"Why don't we see what the Jeweler has for sale?" You ask, trying to keep your voice light and cheerful. "Maybe our little girl back home would enjoy a souvenir, hmm?"
You hope the reminder of what she's fighting for, of why she must remain strong, will snap her out of her doldrums. Unfortunately, your intention doesn't quite hit the mark. "Y-yeah... Alright."
You sigh and gently stop her, tenderly grabbing her shoulders. She gives you a questioning look. "Kanis, please. Seeing you like this is killing me. I'll be fine. This is my burden to bear, not yours. And I've borne far worse than this. So please... Try to cheer up. For me?"
A look of recognition crosses her face, and to your immense relief, some color returns to her cheeks. "You're wrong Trail... It's my burden too. I promised myself when we got married, that I'd never let you shoulder a burden alone again. But me moping around only makes things worse. So I'll be strong. Because you need me to be."
She forces a smile, and in that instant, you love her more than ever. You pull Kanis into your arms for a long kiss, and she sighs into your mouth. Afterwards, you lead her over to the Jeweler, intent on picking out something for Beatrice.
"Welcome milord, milady! What may I do for you on this fine evening?"
Well, he's certainly a lively one, isn't he... A bit strange, that, given the circumstances. But you let it slide. After all, there's no one stranger than your own resident red haired merchant. "We're looking for a gift for our daughter. She's still very young, barely a toddler, but I want something special for her. Nothing too small mind you, I'm terrified she might nibble on it and choke. But... I want something fit for an inheritance. Something fit for a princess, that I'll be able to give to her when she comes of age."
The man is clearly distressed about the idea of his prized jewelry being the chew toy for a toddler, but given the identity of his customers, and the possibility that his jewelry might be featured as a royal heirloom, he quickly forgets his concern. "Ah, I believe I have just the piece, Your Majesties! Here, just give me a moment... Ah, there it is!"
He fishes around at the bottom of his stall for a moment, pulling out a beautiful silver necklace and diamond pendant. The brilliant gemstone seems to give off a subtle light, beyond that of mere purity, and you can sense the hint of magic emanating from it. "This is my finest work. My masterpiece, if you will. Though I can't take all the credit, I'm afraid. A traveling Druid helped me forge this piece, you see."
Interesting... "A traveling Druid, you say?" Well, that would explain the aura of magic.
The man nods eagerly, hoisting the necklace up for your inspection. "Indeed! His name was Marik, if my old age hasn't dulled my memory. I met him while part of a Caravan, up in the frozen tundra of Jotunheim. The necklace is forged from something called White Steel, more commonly known as Silver Snow, which is an ore found only in Jotunheim, as I'm sure you're already aware. The diamond is the largest and purest I've ever seen. My druid friend enchanted this particular piece while it was being forged, and it's said to bring hope to all who behold it. It's called the 'Northern Star', after the star that guides lost sailors home. I would be honored beyond description, milord, if you would present this to your daughter. For you, I can offer a special discount, and sell it to you for only 10,000 gold."
A druid who bears the name of your father... To the best of your limited knowledge, that's a name only used by Manaketes... Few humans, if any, have ever borne it. What could this mean? You're not a fool, obviously it's a coincidence... But what would a Manakete be doing so far up north?
"That's quite the discount good sir," Kanis replies kindly, only partially feigning awe. "What do you think, Trail? I say we get it."
You shove your thoughts aside for now, and nod. "Oh yes. I couldn't agree more."
You pay the good man his due and after admiring your new 'Souvenir' for a moment, you carefully slip it into the pouch at your waist. After a hearty goodbye, you lead Kanis back to the Inn, with the intent of retiring for the night.
*Acquired the Northern Star!(A beautiful memento with hidden properties. Supposedly, it was enchanted with the power to instill hope. It's true effects are unknown)*
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 10, 2014 11:27:22 GMT -6
Huh...? Is that...?
"Hey Kanis, could you go ahead without me? There's something I want to check."
She gives you an odd look, but quickly smiles. "Sure. Don't keep me waiting."
Kanis gives you a quick kiss, before disappearing inside the Inn. You walk around the side of the old building, towards the back, where you can still hear the sounds of metal against wood. Sure enough, you find the pair training out back, though you didn't expect to find Artemis and Phillia. Both are so engrossed in their training they don't even seen to notice you. Intrigued, you lean against the building and watch.
Artemis is easily the faster of the two, and her mastery over the staff is superb. But anyone with eyes could easily see Phillia is the more experienced of the pair. Ironic, considering Artemis is a four century old dragon. Still, it's quite clear Artemis is using every drop of her strength, and Phillia isn't even using half of hers. After a particularly nasty hit, Phillia calls for a break. She immediately turns to you, giving you a smug grin. So she noticed me after all... And here I thought I was being discreet.
"Oh, come now Emperor. You aren't very good at hiding your presence."
You shrug nonchalantly. "Eh, yeah I've never been very good at it. I wonder why?"
Phillia gives a very unladylike snort. "That's a rhetorical question, right? You're one terrifying man, Emperor. Even a blind beggar could sense your presence from a mile away. Now, how about you show me just how powerful you really are?"
You raise a single eyebrow, greatly amused, yet somehow not very surprised. "Oh? Are you challenging me, God General?"
Her grin widens... Just a bit. "Again with the rhetorical questions. Of course I am."
Artemis takes a drink from a water bottle and rises to her feet, wiping her lips and grinning. "Count me in too. I've already seen his strength firsthand... But I've never actually felt his power. So I'm quite excited."
Well, this is interesting... "You're both going to fight me at once? That isn't very fair, now is it?"
Artemis giggles. "Oh my... Aren't you the one who always says life isn't fair? And is the legendary Dragon King afraid to fight two young maids? Imagine the scandal that might cause..."
You gasp in mock disbelief. "Me? Afraid? Milady, you wound me... Very well. I'll take you both on."
A slow grin spreads across your mouth, and you flex your knuckles. "I won't even use my weapons."
Just as you expected, your boast seems to anger Phillia greatly... Though she doesn't openly show it. You confidently stride forward, grinning, tightening your gloves. In a very flamboyant manner, you might add.
"Well, let's get started, shall we?"
Phillia and Artemis both charge simultaneously. Artemis stays directly behind Phillia, until a few seconds before reaching you, when they split. Phillia bolts to your left flank, while Artemis bolts to your right flank. Tsk... What audacity. Even in a training session...
Your eyes abruptly narrow. "That tactic might work on a lesser opponent..."
You effortlessly block Phillia's axe with your gauntlet, and you stop Artemis's staff with your bare hand. "But on me? Really? I am the Dragon King, ladies. Try again!"
In a split second, you hoist Artemis high into the air and throw her. With your right arm free, you shove Phillia away, forcing her to stumble, and you slam your palm hard into her chestplate. Not enough to damage her, but enough to force her back several feet. You flick your hand. "Come now, ladies. Surely that isn't the best you can do."
"Well, aren't you a cocky lizard," Phillia applauds, spitting on the ground.
You chuckle and scratch the back of your neck. "Aww, come on Lia, you're gonna make me blush..."
She snorts again. "I'll knock that arrogant look right off your face!"
The mock battle resumes, though you manage to stay one step ahead of them. All told, it lasts a good half an hour. Finally, it ends in a draw. You lay back against the hard ground, watching the hazy clouds drift by. Artemis lays at your side, while Phillia relaxes with her back to the building.
"You know, you're really something," Phillia comments suddenly, a note of respect in her voice. "You weren't even trying back there, and still you beat us both. I've served Grancelia for a long time, Emperor. As a rule, I only pledge my axe to those I deem worthy. I now pledge my loyalty to you, Emperor."
"You would leave Grancelia?" You ask, more than a little shocked.
Phillia grins slightly. "Eh, my title is honorary only, really. Don't worry. I'm free to leave Grancelia at any time."
Well, in that case... "It would be my honor to accept your pledge, Lady Phillia."
She rolls her eyes. "Don't get too flowery on me, lizard. I simply owe you, that's all. And I respect your strength."
"Even so... Thank you."
*Phillia grew to Lv 19!*
*Artemis grew to Lv 4!*
*Trail grew to Lv 18!*
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 11, 2014 9:44:55 GMT -6
"Lord Lazareth, is everything alright?" Phillia asks hesitantly, slightly concerned. She still isn't sure how to react around him...
He gives a friendly smile. "Everything's fine. Just out stargazing for a bit before bed."
Stargazing, huh? But... Why here, right outside the Inn? Well, that isn't really her business anyway. "That's a little ironic, isn't it milord? You, stargazing?"
He shrugs. "Maybe a little. But there's no need to be so formal, Phillia. Call me Lazzy."
Phillia's eyes widen to comical proportions, and her usual stoic facade shatters like glass. "B-But... Lord Lazareth, I could never! I mean... That would be like meeting Lady Gaia and calling her by a pet name! While these barbarians may have forgotten who you are, I haven't!"
He gives a thundering laugh. "You're too much! Those 'barbarians' happen to be your friends, you know. Besides..." He grins deviously. "What if I told you you've already met Lady Gaia? What would you do?"
Her eyes widen even further. "My Lord, please don't jest with me... I'd probably have a heart attack."
He laughs again and shakes his head. "You need to learn to loosen up every once in a while, Phillia. Anyway, I'm heading back inside. Good night, Phillia."
"Right... Good night."
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 12, 2014 17:59:09 GMT -6
Trail x Idoun Awww.youtube.com/watch?v=o4BhaMSiPgM"We can't just sit here and do nothing, Jahn! Do you want the humans to win?! We're losing dozens of our kin every day! You're the one who promised we could win!"What... What is this? A vision...? But... Something feels different. Something feels... Off. This isn't like all the visions you've had before. Twelve men, each cloaked in crimson robes, gather around a table of fire, atop a floor of painted glass. Below them, glistening white stairs lead down into an endless abyss. At their back stands a massive door, emblazoned with murals of war and creation, a door connected to nowhere and everywhere. "I never once suggested we do nothing, ???. In fact, if I recall, I already advised a plan of action and the Council turned me down.""That's because what you suggested bordered on treason, Jahn! You would have us enslave the Divine Dragons?! The very beings who gave us life?! Have you gone mad?!"Odd... For some reason, you can only hear the name of one. The names of the others are gone, as if the very word has been erased from existence. You can only think of one way that would make sense... Are... Are these someone else's memories? But whose memories are they? "You misunderstand, ???. I merely suggested we ask them for aid, nothing more. Tell me... Would you rather we sit here, and wait to die? I call for a show of hands. Who else seconds this motion?"One by one, all hands are raised. All save one. The scene fades and shifts, revealing one of the men from before, now alone, standing in front of that massive door. The door is broken and defiled, nothing more than a crumbling ruin. "So ends another era... And with it, so ends another war... This war that never should have began."Behind him, the table lays cracked, split down the middle, its brilliant fire reduced to a dull stone. A girl sleeps beneath this broken table, a girl cloaked in tainted robes and crowned with long silver hair. Idoun...The man moves to stand beside her, and he kneels. "You are the last... All the others have abandoned us... Their own children. But now, with this, everything will change. You will fan the flames of War once more, engulfing the world in your darkness... And all shall end."A ball of light materializes in his hands, slowly changing into the shape of a small metal disk. "Even without your soul, with this Program, you will still serve our purposes. This unthinkable creation, this artificial soul, will force you to bend..."You watch, in stunned horror, as the man brutally inserts the disc directly into her mind. Her body immediately begins to convulse, and she wakes up screaming, screaming in terror and agony. Completely unfazed, he holds her down, while she thrashes and writhes. And then, all is still. Her screaming abruptly stops, and he tenderly pats her head. "There, there... You're free now. The burden of free will, of emotion, of pain... You're free from it all."Another man in crimson robes, the one who had been arguing in the previous vision, materializes behind them. "Jahn... Are we... Truly doing the right thing?"The one called Jahn gives a subtle nod. "We are doing what we must to survive. The War Dragons will be the catalyst that ends the war.""And what of the Program? Will it work?""Yes."The vision changes again, showing you a land embroiled in war. Dragons of immense size and strength raze the land, their flames scorching the earth and pillaging entire cities. You hear the screams of fear and smell the arid scent of burnt flesh as if you were there. And then, everything changes once more. You see a group of seven, men and women, challenging a massive dragon amidst the ruins of an ancient temple. The dragon is instantly familiar to you, and your eyes widen. The leader of the seven takes pity on her. Having won, he hurls his sword to the ground. "Let there be no more bloodshed. I invoke the power buried deep within! Manifest, and seal this blight away! Grant this poor girl peace!"A blinding flash of light swallows the temple, and in a sudden moment of clarity, you understand what he meant. He didn't seal Idoun herself. Someway, somehow, he sealed away the very thing controlling her. For one temporary moment, he restored her soul. The vision fades again, returning you to corporeal form. You now find yourself walking a familiar hallway, a hallway of black stone and broken dreams. You already know who waits for you at the end. As you grasp the ornate handle, your hand begins to tremble. The massive doors grind open with little effort, and you step inside a place you hoped you would never see again. Despite the progress you made with her, the ballroom hasn't changed. Everything appears exactly the same from your first visit here. And... You're starting to understand why. Your clothes morph into a tuxedo as you walk forward, the same tuxedo you wore for your last dance. She waits for you at the farthest window, staring out into the nothingness beyond, adorned in a long purple gown. "Why aren't you smiling?" You ask quietly, gently wrapping your arms around her waist. She doesn't answer. Instead, she clasps your hand in hers, and brings it to her cheek. Idoun rests her cheek against your palm, nuzzling your hand and closing her eyes. "It's... Difficult to smile. But... You're here now, and you're safe... So I will try." A hesitant, awkward smile spreads across her lips, and you feel your heart break all over again. As you embrace her, you suddenly remember the visions from before. Was... That Idoun's way of trying to tell you something? But what...? An artificial soul, and a sword of sealing... Could it really be that simple? "Idoun... If I found a way to free you, what would you do? Where would you go?" Her eyes slowly open, and she looks away. "I don't know... I don't have a home anymore. But I... I want to be with you." You too close your eyes, just as a single tear falls down your cheek. "I will find you a home, Idoun. It will be a place of eternal sunshine, and vast meadows, filled with flowers. So long as I am able, I promise I will never stop searching. I will be there to guide you, to help you, and to keep you safe from harm. This I swear." She shakes her head. "I... I don't need all that, Trail. Just promise me... Promise me, that whatever happens, you'll never lose that shine you have... When you're near, you chase all the shadows away... Never lose that." "All right... But in return, I want you to promise me something. After I free you, after all this is over, you and I will dance in the real world. In a real ballroom." Idoun smiles. "That sounds nice..."
|
|
luminescence
New Member
Substitutiary locomotion come to me!
Posts: 54
|
Post by luminescence on Sept 13, 2014 9:53:18 GMT -6
Alright, that only bolstered my ship.
Trail x Idoun, full steam ahead!
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Sept 13, 2014 10:01:50 GMT -6
That ship has already achieved victory. No need to worry about Trail x Ioduine.
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 15, 2014 14:15:50 GMT -6
Trail x Idoun Swww.youtube.com/watch?v=i74cvcvBRuIYou sigh and tighten your arms around her, content to simply hold her for the rest of the night, when her eyes widen, and she lets out a bloodcurdling scream. Shocked and startled, you involuntarily step back, and she rips herself from your arms. "I-Idoun! What's wrong?!" She screams again, a scream of utter terror, as tears begin to stream down her face. She backs away from you, clutching her head in agony. "No, no, NO!!! Stay out of my mind! I... I... I won't...! GET OUT OF MY HEAD!!!!"You have absolutely no idea what's happening, but it's clear she's in terrible pain. And you aren't going to simply stand by and watch! You rush forward and pull her back into your arms, cradling her against your chest. "Shh, Idoun. It will be alright. I'm here for you. Just tell me what's wrong." She writhes in your arms, and you can't tell if she's still in pain, or if she's trying to get out of your embrace. However, her words soon make it quite clear. "N-No, Trail... You... You have to run! Please! I can't... I can't control myself! I don't want to hurt you!" Instead of letting her go, you tighten your embrace even further. "No," you refuse, your breath tickling her hair. "I will not flee like some coward while you wallow in pain. That's not who I am. I will stay by your side." She breaks down into uncontrollable sobs, gently beating your chest with her fists, and trying desperately to pull herself away from you. Eventually, her sobs quiet, and she begins to calm down. She tenderly wraps her arms around your neck, pulling you down to her, and you blink in surprise. A single arm snakes down your chest, stopping just above your midsection. "Trail... Would you do something for me?" Your eyes narrow slightly. Something's wrong... Her voice... Her voice is different. But even so... "Of course, my Idoun. Anything." "Die." Your eyes widen, and you gasp, as an intense pain manifests near your midsection. Idoun pulls you closer, intensifying the pain, and you cough out blood, right over her bare shoulder. You stumble out of her embrace, and she lets you go, her eyes not wavering from the floor. You feel warmth spreading from your stomach, and you stare down in disbelief at the dagger protruding from your gut. Where did she...? I-Idoun... Why?She looks up finally, and to your shock and horror, her eyes are completely blank. No pupils, no emotion, no trace of anything. "I-Idoun... What... What's happening to you?!" "THREAT LOCATED. DETERMINING THREAT LEVEL. THREAT LEVEL A CONFIRMED. INITIALIZING CORE PROGRAM, CODE ALPHA-1. NOW ELIMINATING THREAT."Dammit... Dammit all! What the hell is going on?! With an almighty heave, you grasp the dagger and pull it out. You bite back a cry of pain, and quickly force an Elixir down your throat. A warm green light spreads over your midsection, stopping the blood flow and healing your wound. You toss the dagger aside, and it clatters to the floor. "Idoun... I don't know what's happening. But I made you a promise. And now, I'm going to save you from yourself." Again, you bolt forward with inhuman speed, but instead of raising a hand to her, you pull her back into your arms. "Please, Idoun... Don't make me fight you again. I can't raise a hand against you." Not any more than you could raise a hand against Kanis... You feel her start to shake, and you gently caress her hair. "Come back to me," you whisper into her ear. "Dammit Idoun, come back to me!!!" She suddenly gasps, and her eyelids flutter close. Her eyes stay open just barely, and her pupils slowly return. "Trail, I... I'm so sorry. You aren't hurt, are you?" You shake your head, and water fills your eyes. "No, no, of course not. I'm just fine. You could never hurt me, Idoun. You're far too kind." "That's good... I was so worried..." She collapses in your arms, and you gently lower her to the floor. Good... She's just unconscious. Thank heavens...The ballroom begins to shake and tremble. A slim thread of light leaves Idoun's sleeping body, only to explode in the air. You look up, shielding your eyes from the brilliant light, as it rains down all over the crumbling room. As it touches the floor, the light fades and darkens, transforming into something sinister. Something foul. Without even turning around, you can sense the corrupt presence behind you, a presence that was not there a moment before. "Wait for me Idoun... I'll only be a second." You gently set her down and rise to your feet. "You messed with the wrong person, whatever you are. And I'll make sure you don't live to regret it." You turn around, and your eyes widen once more, as you find yourself face to face with a carbon copy of Idoun's dragon form. After you overcome your initial shock, your rage abruptly erupts within you, like a dormant volcano suddenly becoming active after centuries of silence. "What the hell are you?! And what the hell did you do to Idoun?! ANSWER ME!!!!" "I AM THE CORE PROGRAM. I WAS CREATED TO SERVE AS A CONDUIT BETWEEN THE DIVINE DRAGON AND MY CREATORS. YOU ARE A THREAT TO MY EXISTENCE. YOU WILL BE EXTERMINATED."Suddenly, everything becomes clear. What those visions meant, the reason for Idoun's near emotionless state, everything. "I see now. The visions I saw, the dragon called Jahn, the ancient war, it all makes sense now. That disc he forced into her... That was you. She wouldn't obey them with only an artificial soul. No... She couldn't obey them. She couldn't do anything. So they created a program to force her to bend, a program to install basic functions, or at least, that was the sales pitch. But that was never your design. You were designed to turn her into a puppet. Nothing more than an obedient slave." "YOU KNOW FAR TOO MUCH. INITIALIZING EXTERMINATION. DETERMINING PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS. PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS... 44%. BELOW SATISFACTORY LEVELS. SUMMONING WAR DRAGONS."The Core Program roars, a metallic, echoing roar, and several giant red dragons materialize into existence, forming a shield around the Core Program. You quickly look behind you, where Idoun still lays unconscious, and you curse under your breath. Dammit all... How the hell am I supposed to defeat these things and protect her at the same time?!"PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS... NOW 96.8%. PRIORITIZE THE THREAT. ONCE HE HAS BEEN DEALT WITH, ELIMINATE THE HOST."Your rage erupts again, and your eyes suddenly flash, turning a deep crimson. "Over my dead body!!! I... Will... Obliterate you!!!"Dark wings burst from your back, and your armor and weapons materialize onto your body. You unstrap your scythe.
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 15, 2014 15:57:06 GMT -6
*---*---*---*---*---*
VS The Core Program
*---*---*---*---*---*
Trail Lv 18 Emperor (Nemesis Form)
HP:87
Str:55+37 (Capped)
Mag:28
Skill:50+22 (Capped)
Spd:45+28 (Capped)
Luck:39+7
Def:60+41 (Capped)
Res:47+19
Hit 244 Avoid 140 ATK 131
Skills: Rightful God, Renewal, Nemesis Shift, Dragonskin, Shadow Roar, Pavise, Lethality, Vengeance+, Brave Story(All attacks have the Brave effect)
Special Skills: Unchained Rage
Weapon Level: Dragonstone -/- Lance S Sword C Staff E
Items: Cronus' Scythe(-/-), Tyrant Talons(-/- Mt 20 Hit 90 Crit 10 Rng 1), Marik's Blade(-/-), Dragonstone+(35/35), Elixir(5/6)
Special Armor: Marik's Helm, Marik's Armor, Marik's Leggings, Marik's Gauntlets, Marik's Boots, Ring of Might
The Core Program Lv 30 Demon Dragon
HP:???
Str:80+10
Mag:80
Skill:60+10
Spd:60
Luck:0+10
Def:100+10
Res:100+15
Avoid 0 ATK 120
Skills: Shield Order(Sacrifices 1 War Dragon to completely negate one attack), Heal Order(Sacrifices 1 War Dragon to heal up to 50% of maximum HP), Call Order(Summons a War Dragon. Can only be used once per turn. There can only be 6 War Dragons on the field at one time), Giga Burst(Sacrifices all War Dragons on the field to unleash terrible damage on one opponent. This attack is unaffected by enemy skills, items or armor)
Weapon Level: N/A
Items: Demon Light(-/- Mt 30 Hit 60 Crit 0 Rng 1-3 des- A malefic flash that destroys everything it touches. +10 Str, +10 Skill, +10 Luck, +10 Defense, +15 Res), Wretched Air(-/- Mt 10 Hit 100 Crit 0 Rng 1-2 des- The foul breath of a Dracozombie. It melts everything it touches. +10 Str, +10 Skill, +20 Def, +10 Res)
War Dragon Lv 20 War Dragon x6
HP:80
Str:51+20
Mag:0
Skill:30+10
Spd:30
Luck:30+10
Def:60+20
Res:50+15
Avoid 48 ATK 81
Skills: Negate(Negates the enemy's Def/Res when attacking)
Weapon Level: N/A
Items: Annihilation Breath(Mt 10 Hit 70 Crit 0 Rng 1-3 des- The scorching breath of a War Dragon. It reduces all to ash. +20 Str, +10 Skill, +10 Luck, +20 Def, +15 Res)
Victory: Survive for 5 Turns
Defeat: Trail is defeated, or Idoun is killed.
|
|
luminescence
New Member
Substitutiary locomotion come to me!
Posts: 54
|
Post by luminescence on Sept 15, 2014 20:24:12 GMT -6
o-o
Well.
I assume options will be coming shortly?
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 15, 2014 20:44:56 GMT -6
o-o Well. I assume options will be coming shortly? Tomorrow. I'm too tired to write any more tonight. |
|
luminescence
New Member
Substitutiary locomotion come to me!
Posts: 54
|
Post by luminescence on Sept 15, 2014 20:56:44 GMT -6
Excellent!
Can't wait. This looks like it's going to be tough.
|
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 16, 2014 18:38:56 GMT -6
Infobump, cause I've had a long day, and I'm way too tired to write anything coherent tonight. Sorry. I know you guys were looking forward to the epic showdown.  Please don't hate me! Anyway... Here's a neat infobump to tide you over. Nemesis Form: Trail's Nemesis Form turns him into a weapon of vengeance and destruction. Nemesis Form is basically an upgrade to Trail's Hybrid Form, and it is the only upgrade you'll get. There are three requirements to permanently unlock the skill, and you've already fulfilled one. The other two involve a certain 'star' in your possession, and a rather long quest. Once learned, Nemesis Shift replaces Forceshift. While transformed, Trail gains the skills Vengeance+ and Brave Story. His Dragon Talons also get an upgrade, becoming Tyrant Talons, and he gains the use of his normal weapons in Nemesis Form. Every 5 turns he spends in Nemesis Form, Trail receives +2 to all stats. Oh, and he looks pretty damn badass in said form. |
|
|
|
Post by Neo on Sept 17, 2014 11:23:44 GMT -6
Six War Dragons, seven enemies altogether... Judging by what it said, the Core Program alone poses little threat... So that means, all I have to do is annihilate those damn fakes!
"Get the hell out of my way!" You boom in rage, easily dodging a massive stream of fire. Another section of the ballroom is destroyed, and a hail of rubble crashes to the floor, though thankfully nowhere near Idoun. Luckily for you, speed and accuracy don't seem to be the strong suit of the War Dragons. Before it can recover from its own attack, your scythe comes down, and the dragon explodes into nothingness.
Without even missing a beat, you dodge another river of flame, and with ungodly speed, you decapitate the second dragon with a quick burst of energy from your scythe. "I told you to MOVE!!"
Without the slightest hint of hesitation, you throw yourself into the middle of the fray, intent on drawing the dragons away from Idoun. One strike, one kill... If I can just keep this up, I can end this within minutes!
"DETECTING CHANGE IN TARGET. UNKNOWN VARIABLE DETECTED. PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS NOW 66%. SUMMONING WAR DRAGONS."
What?! You mean this thing can summon them at will?!
Another dragon materializes into existence, replacing the two you just killed, and the brief distraction almost costs you your life. The original five dragons attack simultaneously, in a coordinated effort you didn't think possible, and you barely manage to escape.
You dodge one blast, a river of fire aimed straight at you, only to fly into another. You fly towards the ceiling, dodging blast after blast in a hectic dance. You stop just in front of the giant chandelier, expecting the dragons to pursue you, but they simply tighten their formation and stare up at you with soulless, beady red eyes.
Wait... Does this mean they won't move? No... Of course they won't! As long as the Core is in self preservation mode, the War Dragons are locked to a certain range! That's it! That's how you win!
"INITIATING ATTACK PATTERN ALPHA-3, 0-1. POWER LEVEL 40%, 50%, 60% AND 100%."
Dammit, what the hell is it planning now?! No... That doesn't matter. As long as you strike first, any strategies the Core has are pointless!!
You explode down from the ceiling like a falling meteor, heading straight for the Core, with the sole intention of breaking through the War Dragon formation and ending this fight now. And then, suddenly, everything goes terribly wrong.
Time seems to slow down, as four of the dragons unleash their strongest attacks yet. Two blasts of fire seem to be heading straight for you, and one appears to be heading slightly above you. And the last... The last is heading straight for Idoun!!!
The blasts heading for you diverge slightly, one moving slightly to your right, and in that one terrifying moment, you realize you're trapped. If they destroy the chandelier, a good portion of the ceiling will also cave in, burying everyone present under a mountain of rubble. The Core would easily survive, and you would probably survive as well, but Idoun wouldn't stand a chance. Unconscious and unable to defend herself, the falling debris would crush her. But if you deflected the blast and prevented the ceiling's collapse, the other blast would still reach Idoun! You wouldn't be able to save her in time! And if you tried to avoid the two blasts aimed at you, then you wouldn't be able to save Idoun or prevent the ceiling from collapsing! Even you aren't that fast!
Maybe... Just maybe... If you didn't try to avoid the blasts, but took the hit instead and flew straight through them, then you could still reach Idoun in time to deflect the attack aimed at her. You wouldn't be able to prevent the ceiling's collapse, but if you transformed into your full dragon form, then at the very least, you should be able to shield Idoun. Although... The likelihood of you surviving is slim... Dammit... Dammit all! If you die here, then who will protect Idoun? The Core would either kill her immediately, or invade her mind again! Nothing would change!
"DAMMIT!!!!"
----
What will you do?
A: Prevent the ceiling's collapse, and try to deflect the attack aimed at Idoun from afar.
B: Dodge the blasts aimed at you, and transform into your full dragon form to deflect the attack aimed at Idoun.
C: Ignore the attacks aimed at you, and protect Idoun at all costs. There's still a chance you can survive both the attacks, and the ceiling's collapse.
If you survive...
1: Focus on protecting Idoun, and stick to defense.
2: Focus on offense, and try to end the battle as quickly as possible.
|
|
|
|
Post by yellowclover on Sept 17, 2014 12:22:36 GMT -6
B1
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Sept 17, 2014 14:21:15 GMT -6
B1
|
|
|
|
Post by grayjack on Sept 17, 2014 15:37:40 GMT -6
B1.
|
|
Please don't hate me!
