Complete Megathread Story Quest (Active World Event) As the World Turns

[Pandora*]

ACTIVE WORLD
Surrounding Area: Greed of the Pauper | @Fiora Di Angelo @Chrys

"You speak like you know what you are doing, despite having a bunch of tincan killers nearby

"Heh, better believe I do!!"

The poorly disguised female said smugly before nervously looking at the knights and then looking away just as quickly.

"First, I want to know who this 'she' is before you start explaining anything else. And second, assuming that armor works to get past these guards, I'm gonna need it."

The ginger hesitated. After hemming and hawing for what felt like forever she finally spoke.

"I have a little bit of an uh... nondisclosure agreement? Nah that's not the right word. I'm trying to stay anonymous. Yeah, that's it! Let's just say that I know where they come from and who those guys call boss."

She smirked.

"But this could be my fated payday, I could tell you for a price! 500gp? That's a steal for that kinda info yeah. Oh and if you want this armor... how about a two-for-one special? 1000gp for the armor! That's 1500gp for two incredibly useful things...do we have a deal?!"

< @Fiora Di Angelo Deal? If this amount is not in your account you cannot agree. If it is you may agree and you wont lose it meta wise.>​

---

Some ways away at a different time and place (but still High March)...

"Greetings, peasantry! I have come to meet with these so-called golden soldiers who are rounding up the impoverished miscellany of this once-great nation in the hopes of making a very profitable business deal for them and for myself. So, if any of you illiterates can just point me in their direction, that would be greatly appreciated."

Chrys would make this proclamation in a village of maybe 200 or so people. Even after all these years. High March refused to recover from the feeding of Titanius. Its lands are gray and barren. Distorted creatures lurking where one would least suspect. The small patches of life that had sprung up were treated as miracles and the people in the rural decaying settlements here simply waited for Astorea or Tertoria to come and end their spiral to ruin.

With the end of Szofrit, this may indeed have begun to happen. As both Tertorians and Astoreans have increased in number in the once-ignored region.

Yet the promise of wealth and an even quicker fix was strong...

"You should follow the lines. Sometimes you can see them. They have blank stares and huddle together as they travel."

"Greedy son of ah bitch tryin' tah make ah profit offa dah war!"

"Yeah, ... we aren't in the best state here but we know somethings off about them. We don't need any more trouble."

"They... have... so much... gold... and it's so easy to take... they want everyone to be rich... to have... worth..."

"I saw them turn a man into a goddamn nugget! I swear man For real!!"

< @Chrys Regardless you have made some progress in learning more so take a bonus mod the next time you roll this prompt! +50>

 

[Imoogi]

AP: 1/3 (1 AP spent)
Location: MIT Headquarters - Biology Wing
Prompt: For Science!!!
Narrator Tag: N/A

Imoogi eyed the collection of trilobites with suspicion.

She knew a bit about these guys. They were bitey, and otherwise pretty boring... except for the sort you could find around Camp Ilusus, which had some very special fumes. And these ones had the same taste as those ones, which was... interesting.

She flicked her tongue out one last time before stepping away from the terrarium. It was one of the few things that had survived the magia rampage in this particular wing. Most of this wing had been destroyed when the robots had released the beasts contained here. Unfortunately, the corpses had already been cleared away, or else she would have tried to harvest them.

But... this place. This place! Clearly these scientists didn't know a thing about animals, because most of their pens were little more than glass boxes and metal cages. Where was the enrichment? It was no wonder the animals had gone wild as soon as they'd broken free - it was probably the most entertainment they'd had since they'd come here!

So she took notes, and bothered the staff, and generally made it clear that she was not going to just walk away from this travesty of a menagerie. Animals were good, and they deserved better than what these eggheads had inflicted on them.

Rolls

Imoogi is helping rebuild the pens and tanks used to house animals, and is making a stink about how barebones said containment is. She'll be bothering people about making improvements for a while...

Expertise Check
1d100 (57) + 30 = 87
Knowledge | Imoogi | For Science!!!

 

[Aika]

Queen Slayer
World's Greatest Lovers

AP: 3/3 (0 AP Spent)
Location: East Brisshal
Prompt: Beware! Brisshal!
Narrator Tag: N/A

       

Aika quickly ushered the newly arrived Starcalled in a wagon not too far from there. The driver was a masked old man raring to go, but the Queen Slayer knew she could not just leave her partner-in-crime be. After all, Devi was still fighting the patrolmen from where they had saved their targets...and they could all hear her laugh maniacally, clearly enjoying the fight. So, instead, she gave the driver a nod, gesturing for him to go and deliver their targets to the Lady Florence's estate where they'll meet up soon enough. Hopefully.

The driver obliged, rallying the horses to get them the hell out of there, and for her part, Aika watched them go before rushing back into the fight. She was astounded to find that only one remained standing, though she should have really expected as much. Devi was a one-woman army. She was a freakishly scary tank, able to take out a lot of targets with just one punch. It helped that she was a pyromancer and not a lot of things they fought could withstand extreme heat. Amateurs.

As Devi stalked the remaining man, most likely intimidating the wits out of him, not unlike a cat toying with her food, Aika decided to ruin her moment by throwing herself into the fray, unleashing her hard water wires as she appeared from out of nowhere. Combining his mastery of the Shadow Arts and her hydromancy, Aika was able to wrap said wires around the man's neck as she herself landed right behind him. In a matter of seconds, Aika had choked the man unconscious. In a different context, it would've been a thrill. But they were not there to be thrilled.

"Saving the best for last, I see? You should really stop playing with your food. It's dangerous."

She gave the other woman a playful smirk and a teasing wink as she did away with her wires, the remaining man's unconscious body plopping onto the ground like an ordinary sack of potatoes.

"Anyway, kids are saved. Time to go?"

Rolls

Joining @Devi in saving newly arrived Starcalled from the wrath of infuriated Falderen patrols in East Brisshal. Wrapping up their presence here, I guess. (Current Wanderer Points: 4)!

This prompt can now be done without spending AP, no rolls required.

 

[Bluebird]

AP:: 0/3 (1 AP spent)
Location: Surrounding Area - "The Lake"
Prompt: Lander Exodus
Narrator Tag: N/A

Danger, danger, Bluebird's nerves whispered as Ephram greeted the group. The caravan sang relief but the man before her read caution, pride, hate. She had grown used to being seen as a curse rather than a blessing, but this was something more visceral. It brought her back to sermons by firelight, backed by the rumble of thunder as the Father spat verses about sin and sacrifice-

"Thank you, sir," she said, wings folded so tightly against her head that they were indistinguishable from her hair. She tread carefully, senses on alert as they followed the faerin's lead. Something was going to happen, was already happening. The forest twisted from calming green to ethereal blue, and she spread her wings as instinct called for her to flee-

Something struck her from behind, followed by pressure around her neck. She brought hands up to claw at a thick rope wrapped around her throat. She couldn't speak, couldn't sing, her magic held at bay by mundane hemp-

"Pale Lady! We ask your succor, and bring you an offering!" It was the caravan leader, drawing the rope tighter as he pulled her into his grasp. "Stripped of her voice, this starcursed songbird is easy prey! May she bring us one step closer to freedom!"

People murmured. Some began to cheer. She felt brief flashes of vindication before the world began to blur and fade.

Rolls

Bluebird leads the caravan unto @Ishtar, and is captured in the process...

Roll Result
2d3 (2 + 1) = 3
Lander Exodus | Bluebird | +1d3 from Presence

 

[Avius]

AP:: 2/3
-2 Druid
7 Free actions (Darkness -Magia without a cause -[594 roll count])
Location: Nearby Hall of heroes
Prompt: To the fallen
Narrator Tag: Um... please no...?

Forest nearby Hall of Heroes

125 / 125

_____Most would quit while they had been ahead, he managed to speak a side of a conversation without a rant or getting off track TOO much. That said though Druid felt he had more to say to the goddess that helped the faerin in the past but cost them so much suffering. Yes, it was time he for lack of a better word lectured a goddess about things she had done or could have done better.

"Not to walk on eggshells with this next prayer Or I guess would be more a casual chat with you Goddess Rhiannon if you hear these... The stories say you fed yourself to the ancient Faerin to sate hunger... Why not just give them crops or food or things like that? Like your the goddess called 'eternal summer' So would that not be right up your alley?"

_____Druid would pause to catch his breath before seeing the look across Sparkpaw's face 'Are you seriously shaming a FUCKING GODDESS' as the rabbit started to punch his side but the Faerin had more to say on the matter and was not going to stop till he was either smite or responded to as to why this was not done.

"Atop that, if you or them knew it was wrong to eat a goddess why allow it, like yes they starving and would not eat each other, lead them to food? Try asking the other gods to help all the races out and you just be the main overseer of the Faerin? Oh and then there was the whole punishment thing, why did EVERY faerin generations after get punished, why not ask the gods to do like a 'take back' for the next generation or give them a trail to end it at SOME point..."

_____Druid was going to keep going until Sparkpaw upped the anti and without a shred of mercy drop kicked the boy in the face adding lightning to shock him into a small and much needed nap to defuse things before Druid got himself in even more trouble. it was a problem, he either did not talk, or went on rants like this one. Just no winning with the kid. Sparkpaw moving to kneel at the stone and start frantically praying to the goddess not to take a word Druid said just now serious.

Rolls

Druid goes and makes a goddess mad, most likely...
---
Roll Result
1d100 (20) = 20
Prayer to Rhiannon | Druid | To the fallen

 

[Ishtar]

AP:: 1/3 1 AP spent
Location: Forested Region near Vintergard - "The Lake"
Prompt: Lander Exodus
Narrator Tag: N/A

The moment happened just as they stepped into the claustrophobic clearing of trees where Ishtar and Jacques lingered. The Pale Lady sitting on a branch and kicking her feet quietly as she hummed a tune from the real-world to herself. Ephram had just stepped into the space followed by Bluebird who seemed to be lost in thought. Ishtar glanced at the friends list that once belonged to Attia and her lips curled into a smile as new functions activated because of the proximity. Confirmed.

A sudden flurry of motion drew her attention back to Bluebird and she watched in mounting horror as a looped rope was pulled tight around Bluebird's neck. Ephram quickly turned around, his eyes wide in surprise. Even Jacques was taken aback. They both had heard Ishtar's words; Bluebird was to be treated with politeness.

Was this person insane? Did she ask for an offering? What did he want her to do with the girl? Kill her? Was he stupid? If every starcalled was wiped off the face of this world how was she supposed to have any fun? Short sighted. Stupid. Boring. Desperate. Insipid. Suicidal. Her lips pressed together tightly as she kept her expression neutral. This kind of thinking needed to be stomped out, now. But she couldn't lie, every time she did she froze up, she needed to word this carefully. To make her work so much, this idiot. The caravan leader couldn't feel it, mortal man as he was, but her two Archons froze and went pale as the suffocating wave of killing intent washed over them.

Ishtar looked down at the muted girl and slipped off her branch, floating to the ground as he bare glowing body hovered an inch above the grass. The silk cloth strips that were her only coverage wafted now and then and her glowing pink eyes blazed as she tilted her head thoughtfully. "An offering? And what would you have me do with it?"

"Pale Lady?" The caravan leader asked hesitantly, the cheering falling silent. "E-end her miserable starcursed life o-of course!"

"Really?" Ishtar asked, turning to look him square in the eye. "I assume you want something from me in exchange for this offering? Get in my good graces? Perhaps earn the right to become one of my Archons? Is that what you want?"

"I only mean to-"

Ishtar raised a hand to cut him off, "Do not lie, nothing in this world is done for free. The agents I sent to call you here never, at any point, asked you to bring me offerings. Why would I take from my own children? Do you think that little of me?"

The man went pale, his mouth opening and closing like that of a fish.

"Do you know how many deaths this Starcalled has left? Do you know whether or not she is a starcalled that has committed crimes against us? Have you caught her in a heinous act? Can anyone here tell me what this particular starcalled was doing before she was set to be lynched?" She demanded, turning her gaze to those present.

A child approached, trembling, as everyone else remained silent as the tomb. "Sh-she was guarding us and guiding us..."

Ishtar smiled at the child and knelt down, stroking her hair delicately, "I know, I was watching from afar," She brushed the hair out of the child's face, not even looking at the caravan leader, "Tell me, if we turned all of the starcalled against us, do you think the few hundred of us in this forest would survive it. Even with my powers strenghtening each and every one of you?"

"I-I didn't think-"

"And there is the problem! You didn't think!" Ishtar said, rising to her feet and turning a cold look on the man. "I had assured this one safe passage, I wished to speak with her, I wished to get to know her and perhaps bring her into the fold. I knew from the start that she was one of the decent ones, that she deserved the powers she had! But you, you made a liar out of me."

The temperature dropped, and the man stiffened. He trembled, "B-but they're the enemy! We have to kill all of them!"

"There will always be Starcalled!" Ishtar boomed, "It is no more possible to exterminate them as it is to suck the seas dry! Kill the wretches, uplift those that deserve to be uplifted, and remind them of their purpose. They are not gods, they are guardians who have forgotten it!"

"Hurry! Release her!" One of the landers shouted. Soon several were working with the knot and finally undid the rope. The caravan leader was on his knees, his hands over his head.

"B-but my son..."

Ishtar looked down at him, "If you slaughter them all indiscriminantly, you will be no better than them, is that what your son would want? Your greatest revenge will be punishing them in the right way." Ishtar said coldly, she turned away. "You put us all in danger."

"Forgive me, please," He sobbed.

"I will. Let this be a reminder that you are not like them, you are better," She said and gestured to Ephram, "Guide them to the lake."

Ephram bowed, "As you say, Pale Lady."

When they had all left, Ishtar finally calmed down. Hatred and resentment needed to be honed and directed properly, this was a reminder that she needed to be more clear with the tenants of this cult she was building. Going wild would end the fun prematurely, patience would drag it out. She was proud of herself though, it was quite the little performance. Her lip twitched and she suppressed the sadistic expression that wanted to spread across her face.

Alone with Jacques and Bluebird now, she sighed and held out a hand to the girl. "Can you stand, dearie?" She asked gently.

Rolls

Ishtar makes the purpose of her cult clear and saves @Bluebird in the process.

Roll Result
1d3 (3) = 3
Lander Exodus | Ishtar | Influence

 

[Harper]

AP: 1/3 (2 AP spent)
Location: Hall of Heroes
Prompt: Lions and Tigers!
Narrator Tag: @Pandora*

Harper couldn't help but feel a bit dejected that her throw was pretty much nullified by @Vina Skysong 's help, the tigress visibly frowning. Yes, the vixen had helped both of them, but the tigress had still gotten kicked in the face before being healed, unlike the knight who got to safely land on her own two feet. Still, she figured it was best to not get too hung up about it.

If Vina wanted to prevent them from getting hurt, Harper just had to make sure she had to sweat a bit to do her job. After all, if Sarina was giving it her all, it would be mighty disrespectful for Harper to not do the same.

However, Harper's resolution to send the knight into the ground would be momentarily stopped when Vina approached her and wiped the blood out of her cheek with her hand as she healed her injuries. "Stop it already, you are acting like my mom. I can take care of a little blood by myself." She would complain, but wouldn't make too much of an effort to stop the vixen. The healing magic felt nice, after all."And I really feel like we are on two different frequencies here when it comes to what we mean by devouring..."

Letting out a sigh, she would ready herself to once again go after Sarina, who was now whirlwinding all over the place and trying to drag them in. For someone who she only saw as a normal knight, she was pulling them with surprising force from just spinning her staff, the tigress barely managing to keep herself in place via a combination of her claws gripping into the soil and Vina's currents. "Gahdamn! They should name the next hurricane after you. Vina!"

She would turn towards the vixen with an determined look. "I need to give twintails over there her comeuppance for that kick. So chill with the saves, otherwise I'm using you as a weapon next, capiche?" She would lightly threaten, before muttering under her breath as she turned back towards Sarina. "Though I feel like you'd find a way to enjoy that still..." And with that one last complain out of the way, off she went!

--

After jumping head-first into the literal maelstrom of attacks Sarina unleashed, Harper found herself once again on a stalemate. Vina's antics did let them train for a good lot longer than they otherwise could, but it also made getting any sort of upper-hand nigh impossible. And while one could say this was a good thing, as they were here to train, Harper's competitive blood was boiling far too hot to let that stay the case.

She would prepare herself to dash against Sarina once more, until the arrival of @Schilva Flasch and his spiel about injustice and being great made the tigress almost bust a vein in annoyance. Yet another thing got in the way of her decking Sarina's dumb face. "Yeah, nothing unjust going around here, just good old fighting. I'd ask you to stand out the way for your own good, but I know your type." The tigress cracked her neck, before focusing her eyes on Schilva. "So instead... Try to not get too hurt before Vina there gets to you, 'kay?"

And with her final warning ensued, she launched herself towards the samurai. She still wanted to smack Sarina above anything else, but if the brat wanted to stand in her way he would get it as well. As she got into range, Harper would make no attempts to hide her intent as she tried to take a hold of him. If she found success, Schilva would find himself lifted out of the air and launched at Sarina like a sack of potatoes. "HURYAAAH!"

There was no technique or strategy this time. Just brute strength and the beastkin's desire to smack a brat with another brat.

Rolls

Harper gets healed by Vina before asking her to let her get a good hit in. As Schilva arrives and getS in her way of clapping Sarina back, she decides to try and use Schilva to smack the knight as consequence for his actions.


Mastery Check
1d100 (34) + 20 + 15 = 69

Crush Weapons | Harper | 1815 | Brat-on-Brat Violence

 

[Pandora*]

Hinata Silvercross Gardibrook
Surrounding Area: Woman of Talent @Aalam Abungu

Theme

​

Silvergate Bridge...
Tertoria...

A strange land for those from beyond its borders, where the sentiment was mutual for the majority of its inhabitants. Even now, 5 years after the Silvergate, also considered the Starforged bridge by most in Tertoria, was constructed. The bridge stretched several miles over the Naryu Canyon. The "step into the deep".... of course, it's more like a blind step into plummeting to one's demise. It could be said that the bridge is a grave marker for" Titanius the Ancient Dissonance" which terrorized the canyon from time immemorial.

The last batch of refugees for the day made it past several tired-looking Gardibrook soldiers. Their red armor and emblems of a rose, pen, and coin were distinctly that of House Flanst. The ruling family of Gardibrook. They had not been seen much of at all recently only to appear once again with the disappearance of another color of knight.. of the golden variety. The World was a place that moved in real-time. Stories created and ended all without a single eye to see them or ear to hear them. Only the ones who experience those stories will ever know they existed... and the gods themselves.

Three people stuck out and were given a wide swath by the soldiers present. A figure in a white cloak and pulled-up hood. Their sleeves were brought together in front as they spoke to a mounted woman.

"As you were then. Bless this fateful cycle."

The cloaked woman left. Leaving the two behind. They were the woman upon the mount and a younger simple-looking girl holding a large bag on her arm. The tie and clothing looked something akin to what a secretary or office worker might wear... or perhaps considering her looks. student as well. The white-haired rider was dressed in something more akin to nobility in a post Starcalled era. A mix of traveler and lander sensibilities. Although... this was Tertoria and it looked like perhaps this was more of the society there not completely losing the past as much as the rest of Arcia.

"Tell me what you see here."

The white hair spoke in a voice that held authority but also a tinge of lightheartedness as she rode along the bridge and eyes several flowers that had been created along the way by a certain man.

"Naryu Canyon... It was named by an Elf, on the Tertorian side. it has been known as Titanius Rift. The deep crevice with steep walls housed an ancient evil that was kept at bay by Lady Saya of Tertoria. the honorary Second in command of the Fate's Guardians. This place was the eastern edge of the world for Tertorians and the western edge for Falderens alike until the Starcalled arrived and Titanius's full awakening. of *huff* ...according to essays written by...*DEEP BREATH*."

The short-haired companion spoke as if it was a memorized speech without taking so much as a breath. Her eyes looked once towards the edge of the bridge and she looked away. Her face paled and she pulled on her collar slightly before gripping the bag at her side and moving closer to the white-haired woman's steed.

"That's enough thank you. You did well child but you need to control your breathing or you'll pass out running on like that. You learn quickly. Although we should do something about your chronic anxiety. That's the reason I brought you with me. Experience is paramount to growth."

"I'm sorry. I find learning enjoyable but this place is a sudden change of pace... is this something you do a lot?. I just follow you around. This place is terrifying but the refugees still crossed it.. ...I would prefer anywhere other than here."

The woman reined in her mount. A strange creature that had looked, part lizard, part bird. Much of its body is layered in ridged plates on the head and legs. Its eyes were covered by a visor that wrapped from side to side of its head over the beak. She dismounted and pressed a button on a small remote-like device. The creature stayed put and laid down by lowering itself to the ground as a chicken might do.

"Correct child! Do not forget that there are many worse ways to be brought into a world like this. As for your description... you articulated it well. I'm proud of you. You get a head pat."

She patted the dark-haired girl's head before walking away. She had caught the eye of someone and them to hers. So she strode to him leaving the girl timidly waiting with the mount. She placed her hands on her hips and tipped her head slightly.

"Who are you?"

"I would ask you the same. Seeing as how you nearly single-handily helped with the bridge crossing on your end yes?"

A soldier dressed in red ran beside her.

"Lady Silvercross is everything alright? Is this man...?"

"Quite. I'm simply greeting a generous Astorean. I will return to Gardibrook shortly. As I already shared with the Acolyte. Return to your station We will need to prepare for the next wave when they come."

"Ah understood! We still need you until Priscilla's return and I was worried you'd abandoned us..."

Silvercross squeezed his cheek before gesturing to leave her and so he did.

"Hinata Silvercross. A traveler of Arcia. Although *chuckle* I seem to have found a temporary home with the Tertorians. I am in charge of Gardbrook as we wait for the return of its rightful Oracle. In other words, you're speaking to a governor. Thank you for your service on your end. Now then, you had a question for me or just enjoy finding out names?"

New Prompts Discovered!

(2 AP) Woman of Talent: Hinata Silvercross can be found here greeting those who helped the crossing of many landers. She will not be here long. Interactions may unlock future content, affect the NPC's place in the story, and other benefits.

 

[Morpheus]

Somewhere in Finweald​

AP:: 0/3
-1 Morpheus
-2 Druid
7 free actions from Darknesss (594 count)
Location:
Hall of heroes
Prompt:
For a better tomorrow
Narrator Tag:
Nothing from the old man.

_____He had managed to find himself lost again, but in his defense the place had none of his old landmarks so the old man was just roaming until he overheard some children crying. it was not uncommon but this one stood out enough to lead the man over to the area. Cane tapping the ground as he would kneel down and sit beside the kid and start to reset the small wooden blocks that had fallen over.

"No reason to be sad little one, Them falling just a reason to build it waaay better the next time."

_____Morpheus would open his eyes enough to see the kid and help wipe the tears from their face. A faint smile as he would keep helping the kid set bricks leaving the higher ones to him as he worked to keep the base stable and took in the area around him. Like many wars, there was always orphanages overcrowded in the end. Struggling to get back to his feet as the kid took the chance to climb on his back making him wobble a little but keep his footing.

"Oh, where would ya like to go then little one?"

_____Morpheus would straiten his back and set is cane down looking to see where the kid pointed and moving with a speed he rarely chose to use to get the kid to laugh. Other kids rushing over and trying to climb up and Morpheus would kneel down to help them out as he would run around the area and keep the kids entertained until one of the care takers took note and got them to leave the old man alone. Chuckling a little as he set down his entire coin bag in her hand before speaking.

"It ain't much, but that's what this old man has left. I'll stick around to help if ya need it. my own kids can handle themselves, you all got a rowdy bunch and I miss when I got to be a grandpa so With yer permission, where do you need help most?"

Rolls

Morpheus enjoying the chance to be great great great grandpa to some kids. (4-G returns!)

Roll Result
1d100 (69) = 69
For a better tomorrow | Morpheus | Old man be poor 770gp to the kids.

Player Sheet Link

 

[Ueno Mizuki]

AP:: 0/3 (1 AP spent)
Location:
Finweald
Prompt:
Rebuild Stronger
Narrator Tag:
N/A

So you need as much wood as I can manage?

These words were spoken towards one of the many citizens who hadn't abandoned Finweald but did find its current state less than stellar. Seeing the mess that had once been the outskirts of Astorea's capital Mizuki could hardly disagree with that sentiment, which was part of the reason why she was helping out.

The other part was that she might have played a role in things getting out of hand as they did. Not that she'd been there at the start, but telling an entire army of wolves to enter the city and hunt down every brainwashed magia didn't improve the situation.

Letting out a bit of an embarrassed cough while she dismissed those memories she headed for where there was space for her to work her magic, passing between others who were cleaning up rubble and figuring out what could be reused and what was too far gone to be of any use beyond fuelling a campfire. The luna wolf got a few glances, but around here almost everyone was too busy with actual work to spare any words for the wildling.

That said, even if these were the ones who'd chosen to remain rather than seeking sanctuary in Falderen and Tertoria, that didn't mean they were happy with the Travelers. Trouble could only come knocking on your door so many times before those who seemed to always be involved in it became associated with unrest and upheaval, which for many people was exactly the opposite of what they wanted in their lives.

Mizuki for the most part ignored the others, but she didn't dally either. Within minutes she'd walked far enough that most of the reconstruction work was behind her, and in front of her the plains of Solvale spread out, green and vibrant as winter had passed and spring had brought with it fresh growth, as if to emphasise that the metal menace had been (largely) taken care of and it was time for the living to reclaim the land.

Walking a bit further to make sure she wouldn't get in anyone's way the luna wolf kneeled down and pressed her hands against the ground. Around here there were few trees, but plenty of plantlife which a creative mind could repurpose. As she dug her fingers into the ground the digits, formerly made of flesh and blood, grew pale and long, burrowing into the soil with many branches shooting off, forming a network which sought to anchor the wildling.

Once her network of roots had expanded far enough Mizuki poured as much energy into it as she could muster, enough that as she felt her stamina drop she actually shuddered, her tail and ears drooping as she suddenly felt quite exhausted, as if she'd been running for hours and the adrenaline had worn off without warning.

But her efforts had results: in front of her grass was pushed aside as the brown soil first rose up, then fell apart to make way for brown trunks, a small grove forming in under a minute, until where before there had been a green field there was now shade and leaf, and one wolf who was simultaneously tired yet unsatisfied with her work.

This should be enough for now. (She breathed out as she looked over her back at the man who'd followed her.) If you need more I can come back and repeat this, but for now I'll need to rest. I also tried to make the trees easy to work with, but if you need more help I can see what I can do once I've had something to eat.

The man clearly hadn't expected her to just spawn trees as she had, even if it was clear that it had been a taxing endeavour and the luna wolf couldn't repeat the performance at will. Slowly pulling her hands out of the ground, her fingers disconnecting from the root network and returning to their usual clawed selves, she stood up and turned around. Her breathing was heavy, and her stomach rumbled audibly even as it felt hollow. Creating plants which would remain even after she finished working them was definitely more work than just shaping temporary constructs which would wither and disappear once the battle was done, but it was necessary for this task.

But as she walked back towards the city, her feet feeling quite a bit heavier than before, she hoped that they wouldn't need her to do this too frequently. Right now she was tired enough that she'd actually get some food from a shop instead of hunting it herself... but she'd have to compensate for that as well eventually.

Rolls

Mizuki grows trees which the workers of Finweald can turn into wood to help in the reconstruction efforts.

---

Mastery Check
1d100 (29) + 25 + 25 = 79
Nature Magic | Ueno Mizuki | Rebuild Stronger | 1815

 

[Skyswimsky*]

Valen MIT

Fineweald: MIT Headquarters @Luthien @Ronja Bubblyfoot

Valen stepped back as @Luthien's outburst unfolded, maintaining an untroubled demeanor. Remaining silent as @Ronja Bubblyfoot intervened, simply frowning ever so slightly at her acting of choking on the poison.

Too soon...

After a brief pause, long enough to worry but too short for awkwardness, Valen put away his notepad and clasped his hands. "A joke, a lesson, and science." He said with a marginally wider smile. "Participants react unpredictably in unforeseen situations. Death, however, could come just as swiftly. Rest assured, I would not end the lives of two Starcalled for a simple evaluation. I trust you found the taste to your liking."

Addressing Ronja's question, Valen continued. "My opinions on possibilities are inconsequential. Numerous theories abound, such as clinically preserved bodies, or the idea that Terrasphere transcends a game, allowing deceased Starcalled to 'spawn' in the real world upon recovery. My focus is to comprehend the UI-Lock phenomenon, the common denominator between three deaths and Dissonance infection, and any potential reversals. Discovering alternative UI-Lock triggers would also be advantageous."

He glanced at Luthien. "As for Szofrit, it's too soon to determine."

Satisfied with his explanation, Valen posed more questions. "How long have you been playing? How many deaths have you experienced?" Still focused on Luthien, he added, "Aside from your anger towards me, did you fear for your life?"

Beware! Brisshal
Unmasked Followers @Toko @MayoYume

"Have at ye..." The Soldier keeping the Magia hostage threw him violently towards @Toko roughly at the same time as the soldier she held hostage stumbled towards his friends - but not before having the gall to make the Magia trip.

"Oopps..." He called out as the others chuckled. "Let that be a lesson for yah and enjoy your freedom for however long you can!" Spitting on the ground for a second time, they turned around. Slowly walking away while keeping an eye over their shoulders. No funny business from the two Starcalled, hopefully.

Would they let them leave and be done with it or...?

"T-Thank you!" The small Magia called out to them as Esther sighed in relief...

FIN.

Rolls

@Toko @MayoYume gained an extra WP
Unlocked Masked Dominion prompt
@Toko @MayoYume gained an extra +25 modifier for the Masked Dominion prompt

 

[Vina Skysong]

AP:: 0/3 (2 AP spent)
Location:
Hall of Heroes
Prompt:
Lions and Tigers!
Narrator Tag:
@Pandora*

By the time that @Harper complained about Vina wiping away the blood the vixen was already almost done. Sarina's attack hadn't done that much damage, after all, and physical contact made it a lot easier for her to fix the damage.

I don't usually play the role of the mother, but the longer I keep you in good condition the longer you last~ (She winked.) And I'm willing to bet my interpretation of devouring is a lot more fun for the both of us~

With Sarina and Harper (and possibly @Schilva Flasch) now fully focused on the training Vina could focus on acting as support, throwing winds in every direction to make the experience more challenging for all three of them. However, creating gusts and gales powerful enough to have a noticeable effect on three well-trained and strong warriors was quite taxing, and the vixen's breathing was beginning to grow heavy even as she tried to push herself just like the others were. From the corner of her eye she caught @Fina Drago watching the training, leading to the songstress briefly interrupting her efforts to raise a hand and call out to her friend, her voice carrying despite everything that was going on in the training grounds.

Hey there Fina~! I think we're almost done here, so I'll be with you in a minute!

Even as Vina was flagging she could tell that the others were also beginning to reach their limits. Or at least, Sarina and Harper: Schilva had only just arrived, so he hadn't burned through his reserves yet. Sarina was clearly trying to get in a decisive blow with a final energetic barrage, while Harper's movements were becoming more aggressive and forceful as she no longer had the luxury to control her strength.

I wouldn't make a very good weapon, but I don't mind a little manhandling~!

The sight of Harper actually using the new arrival as a weapon made Vina blink, wondering if she should intervene. Neither Sarina or Schilva looked weak enough that such a method would cause serious injury, but it still seemed a bit over the top for a training session.

However, Harper did have a point that Vina had been hindering her quite a lot, so instead of channelling her winds to weaken the impact Vina stopped her miniature storm and instead began to prepare her healing magic. While nobody had gotten really hurt yet she figured that the others would appreciate some additional medical assistance to help refresh them after such a chaotic training session.

Rolls

Vina continues using gales to hinder the movements of the other trainees, but due to bad rolls exhaustion the gales are losing strength. At the end she gets ready to heal the others once the training is over.

---

Mastery Check
1d100 (17) + 25 + 20 = 62
Aeromancy | Vina Skysong | Lions and Tigers! | 1815

 

[Seigi Ling Ling]

AP: 1/3 (2 AP spent)
Location:
Camp Hope
Prompt:
Melodious Excitement
Narrator Tag:
@Pandora*

"Is it that weird?" Seigi tilted her head slightly as Hylia freaked out some, though the bubbly girl quickly moved on at her own pace.

"Ah yes. Max, of course. Can't forget about the Fatelines either! And a villainous villain held you captive!?!" Seigi replied with a half-enthusiastic voice. Taken aback by answers that simply posed more questions. Hylia was that kind of person, huh? "You have to be more precise if you want me to understand!" Seigi added, before looking down at her bandaged arm.

"Taken care of?" One of the reasons Seigi was here, was because of Magi, so- "How are you going to take care of it?" Without really a reason to refuse Hylia, Seigi offered herself into the care of the Idol. It seemed like the little bit of Dissonance Seigi was afflicted with was the top priority of Hylia right now, anyway.

"Is it that bad? I've been really fine though!" Not exactly a lie, though her bigger concern was the whole UI lock stuff. "What does Dissonance do exactly anyway? Can I learn to do what you do?" Nanami kept her information rather guarded, so might as well ask the girl who was going on about Dissonance more anyway!

Rolls

Roll Result
1d100 (40) = 40 +25 + 10 = 75
Seigi asks Hylia to clarify her one-sided info babbling, and also more about Dissonance in general. Hoping to also find something that can help Magi.

 

[Pandora*]

Rettah Dam: Explorers League
Finweald: Daredevil | @Lucille Fer

theme

​

"Ah, nevermind. Darkness lieth elsewhere... whistles are too loud, making beastfolk ears ring. Perhaps a different Death Seeker will be elsewhere in the capital..."

The raven-haired wolf passed Rettah. Rettah returned her hat to her head.

"*Snicker*, seeking darkness but you can't even take a little whistling? You have got to be kidding me."

She head tilted over her shoulder towards the clueless caenis. She was right about one thing. There wasn't going to be anything as simple as bland "Darkness" here. That isn't enough. Darkness by itself isn't thrilling... it's just generic. A slow death of decay especially would be beyond uninteresting and that's why...

Chasing a thrill.
Live fast die young was the way.
That's life in Wonderland.

"So why do you want to find... darkness anyways? I've seen quite a bit and It's not all that. What happened while I was gone was much more exciting. So many people getting to experience a thrill like none other and not appreciating it."

She spun on one heel and shrugged. Her mannerisms are a little over-exaggerated. Somewhat uncanny.

"What's shitty is how you Starcalled's can get free revives if you get dusted. Sort of ruins the thrill, doesn't it? Welp whatever, go find your darkness, it's all around, to be honest... Maybe you're just blind to it pup?"

---

Sarina Knights Lions Pride
Hall of Heroes: Lions and Tigers! | @Harper @Schilva Flasch Hanno Futaba @Vina Skysong

The sun sets as the long training bout continues...

Until finally a staff hits the ground and a leather glove rubs a weary forehead. Sarina gave a tired grin.

"Alrighty then! That was a good time.. but I'm pretty spent now heh..."

She looked to Vina first.

"Magic is annoying as fuck but I can't say it wasn't impressive how ya used it Vin! Maybe I should work on my Pyromancy more sometime.."

She looked at Schilva as she passed him. Her hand went to her neck and she stretched it. The soreness was already coming after a good workout!

"I don't even know who you are but uh... cool to meetcha Schilva Flash! You shouldn't go around trying to police others though. You should apply to the Lions so you can have a badge for that hahaha!"

The feeling that she saw him in a dream where she punted an eldritch abomination into a historically accurate angel passed. Surely it was just some deep lore that meant nothing!

"...Hanno's guidance was helpful too but I don't see him? I guess the guy's busy... I get way too wound up... I hope he doesn't report me?""

Finally, she reached the tigress... um, whoever. She raised a fist to her.

"Heh. You are a wild one ain'tcha? I'd say you're trouble. I'd also put money on ya having several felonies under your belt! But... you're a tough furball so I'll let it slide if you fight me again sometime. Elsewhere."

The spunky brunette would give her one last look and smirk before calling it a day...

<This prompt's Narrator responses are concluded. You may continue to respond to it if you wish to finish the tracker for 1 ap instead of 2.>​

 

[Zera Leigh]

AP:: 0/3 1 AP spent
Location: Hall of Heroes
Prompt: For A Better Tomorrow
Narrator Tag: N/A

Zera heafted the length of wood over his shoulder and made his way towards the small group of men standing around the latest focus for construction. They'd been at it for two days now and there were already signs of decent progress. The kids, easily distracted, had already adjusted to the presence of the gathering of strangers and had resumed their normal activities.

"Bored of us already, haha!" Zera laughed, nodding towards a trio playing tag in the distance.

"Ah they're kids boss, we ain't bothered by it none!" One of the ex-bandits laughed, slapping his knee.

Zera snorted, setting the lumber down and wiping his brow. At this rate it would take at least a week to finish what they had planned, not including crafting some furniture for the kids. But that was more complicated than time-consuming and he had a big group here. The work would be speedy enough.

"It would seem that we've been getting some attention from the Lion's though," Vega said uneasily off to the side, "I'm sure a few of them know what our prior occupation was."

"We'll deal with it if it comes, just stay out of their way," Zera said, glancing over at a few players who were watching them carefully, "As long as we don't cause any trouble, I don't think they're will be any. The war took the fight out of everyone..."

Vega made a face but nodded. Zera sighed, he hoped he was right.

Rolls

Work continues on improving the orphanage!

Roll Result
1d100 (32) = 32
Charity | Zera | For a Better Tomorrow

 

[Devi]

Raging Flame
World's Greatest Lovers

AP: 1/3 (2 AP Spent for grinding)
Location: East Brisshal
Prompt: Beware! Brisshal!
Narrator Tag: N/A

     

Devi enjoyed beating up the patrolmen on her own as @Aika saved the newly arrived Starcalled. It wasn't an easy fight, but these guys seemed like complete noobs. That or they pretty much feared fighting a woman of color...that had flaming fists. Devi would've feared the same if she was in their shoes. All that metal in their armor plus all that heat from magical fire usually didn't end well.

Fortunately for the last guy, he didn't need to suffer third-degree burns. He just had to look Devi in the eye as Aika choked her out, the sneer on the pyromaniac pugilist's face the last thing he'd see for a long while.

"Sounds good, darlin'!"

Once the battle was over, Devi walked over to where her greatsword was, picking it up easily like it weight not a single thing. She took a moment or two to check it for any bloody stain or any blunt edges or anything at all, but found nothing. It hasn't changed. Not one bit. Damn it! How do you even get a sword to talk to ya?

"Time t'go! Let's find somethin' else t'do!"

It was a good change of pace, mindlessly throwing fists and flames at these bozos. Lord knows Devi needed to be mindless every now and then. Hopefully, she doesn't get used to it. Or maybe she should. Others can do all the more mind-y things. She's just here to have fun.

Rolls

Devi and @Aika, aka the World's Greatest Lovers™, are saving newly arrived Starcalled from the wrath of infuriated Falderen patrols in East Brisshal! +1 Wanderer Point (4 max wp)!

This prompt can now be done without spending AP, no rolls are required. For 2 AP, you grind a Wanderer Point.

 

[Aalam Abungu]

Working Man
An old duty

AP: 1/3
2 AP spent.
Location:
Surrounding area/ on the bridge between Astorea and Tertoria,
Prompt:
Woman of Talent
Narrator Tag: @Pandora*

He pulled that smoke in as he looked at the woman in front of him, his range was something he had worked on, and it allowed him to catch conversations that were not meant for his ears. But it was something that he had come to use over the years, another trick, another skill that he polished until it was pristine. Ahh, now that was a good bunch of leaves. He could almost taste that lavender in the smoke, the mixture of jasmine also helped warm him from the inside while he pulled from his pipe. Enough that the smoke leaked from him as those brown eyes rested on his mount, then on her assistant, and finally on the woman they left further back. It was good to know that he could still recognize royalty when it came down to it. It would make it easier to spot someone in a crowd, be they a mark or someone needing protection. He took said nothing for a bit as he watched the bridge and the people still crossing it, letting his ears pull the sounds of their struggle to him before he turned back to the Governor. "I would have guessed nobility from the stride. Something about the pressure changes how people look at you; they never see you; they see the title that you are." He pushed more smoke out of his nose before he spoke again, letting the time pass into a silence broken only by the moaning of that drop.

"But you are right; manners still matter in places like this is not for just the name to be remembered. I am no one important, a man who worked the Nights of Astoria, a man who looked to guard the crown and a ranger who patrolled the south long ago to fight to protect a wall. Besides, it is better if they do not remember a name and remember something helped them; the stories tend to go further when there is no name." He took another long pull from his pipe, letting the conversation fall back into the period of silence and watching the bridge, watching people climb and struggle even while he took a second to build back up his mana. "And no, I doubt a single person could do that much, no matter how skilled they are with a bridge." Damn, he was tired. It was something that soaked into his bones; he had been drunk for so long that it had been easier to live like that, to be someone else, someone that didn't need to try, but yet here he was, working to make things better for a nation that shouldn't know he existed.

"I mean no disrespect or mockery, Governor, but it was work that needed to be done, and it was what I was made......left to do. But more importantly, why are you here? Was this mess something enough to bring you to the border between nations? So I can't help but wonder what brings nobility this far out."

Rolls

Addressing the figure from Hinata.

 

[Luthien]

  Explorers League  

AP: 1/3, 2 AP spent
Location: MIT Headquarters

Prompt: Green Conspiracy
Narrator Tag: @Skyswimsky*

He was a tricky one to figure out, his expression neutral despite the news he’d just delivered to them, and the lack of even the slightest twitch to betray any thoughts coursing through his mind certainly unnerved the ranger… though, at the very least, it seemed the scientist still had some sense of self preservation in him as the blonde noticed him take a few steps back from her.

"A-Aak—!"
"Ronja…?"

She’d considered shortening the distance between them once more when an unexpected sound echoed from her side, and the worry that colored her words was all to real as those crimson eyes turned away from the green-haired man to see Ronja pressing a hand to her neck as the magia reached out for Lúthien’s arm with the other. "W-Wha—wait, it shouldn’t be…!" Her attention was now focused on the smaller brunette as the thoughts raced inside her, her chest tightening as elven hands reached to hold Ronja’s arms to offer whatever little comfort and support she could.

"Valen, you said we had five minutes!" There was always the possibility he might’ve lied about that too, though a likelier scenario had quickly been found by her brain. She knew certain traits from the real world could manifest within the avatars in this game, with Yugam‘s lactose intolerance being the prime example to support this hypothesis. "Ronja, are you allergic to something—!"

It was then she noticed the glint that crossed those watered eyes of the magia, a light mirth that betrayed the brunette shortly before the dam broke with a giggle that soon gave way to hearty laughter. "Ay, vete pa’l carajo...!" A wave of relief washed over her shoulders despite the expletive that tumbled out of her tongue, before Lúthien found herself trapped in a soft embrace from her friend as Ronja reassured her that they were both fine.

"I’ll remember this~" Her face relaxed as Ronja quietly whispered a thank you, but not before uttering a soft warning to the brunette as Lúthien returned the hug in kind. Still it was good to know that they’d never been in any real danger, although the blonde couldn’t help but wonder if there was an unverbalized extra requirement when it came to promoting members of MIT into the higher ranks.

"Rest assured, I would not end the lives of two Starcalled for a simple evaluation. I trust you found the taste to your liking." She couldn’t help the raised eyebrow upon hearing those words, her expression making it more than clear that she wasn’t entirely convinced by Valen’s logic, though a faint chuckle escaped the girl before she nodded in response. "I’ll give you that, it tastes pretty good… though I was expecting green apples, not watermelon."

Silence followed as the conversation veered towards the possibility of reverting the permanent effect that three in-game deaths generated, specifically the biggest obstacle that would stand in the way—and a part of her couldn’t help but notice it was a similar predicament to the one currently faced with the collected magia cores. "Yeah, kinda hard to revive anyone without a body—in-game or out of it."

It was interesting to hear of a handful of theories that seemingly abounded as possible solutions to this obstacle, though it seemed the researcher’s focus lay in something more accessible for the time being: the UI that enabled players to interact with the systems of the game. "True, finding a way to restore the UI access would be a good first step… would that make it compatible with Landers too?" Her brows furrowed in thoughts that slipped out in small mumbles, until the feeling of being watched caused Lúthien to look back at Valen—and, sure enough, his eyes were currently fixed on the elf.

"I started playing shortly after that Red Fever thing happened… missed it by a week, maybe two?" The restoration efforts of Camp Nisus had been the first “missions” she’d undertaken shortly after joining the League. "No deaths on me… though I’ve seen them on others."

Although his questions had been meant equally for the both of them Valen’s gaze had remained fixed on her, causing the elf to cross her arms over her chest as she adopted a guarded stance unconsciously, before a final question was tacked onto the list.

"I…" The answer should’ve been obvious, but her voice peppered off into silence upon realizing that her reply didn’t align with what would've been the normal response of someone in such a situation. "... no, I didn’t."

The realization was one Lúthien might’ve missed had Valen not brought attention towards it in the first place, though it did little to quiet the thoughts in her mind. Perhaps she had simply believed in her friend’s skills, trusting that Ronja could’ve created an antidote herself after ingesting Valen’s? Yeah… that’s probably it. The explanation was plausible enough and her mind was quick to grab hold of it as a result, if only to prevent thinking about the matter any further.

❰ Summary ❱

Lúthien's almost given a heart attack but is glad to see that @Ronja Bubblyfoot is alright, and that neither is poisoned after all. Valen then proceeds to give her more food for thought than she'd expected for the day.

 

[Morpheus]

Somewhere in Finweald​

AP:: 2/3
-1 Morpheus
7 free actions from Darknesss (594 count)
Location:
Hall of heroes
Prompt:
For a better tomorrow
Narrator Tag:
Nothing from the old man.

Critical Failure

1

_____Morpheus did not get much reply from the woman who just seemed to rush away and leave him dealing with the kids. Though that was in a sense a reply he supposed as the relic tried to keep the kids entertained. Part of him wanted to go into story mode, but figured the kids needed to have more fun then just sitting still and looking around at the area while they listened SO he did the next best idea.

_____Tapping his foot to the ground as Divine magic would start lighting the ground recreating a relic of his youth, 'dance dance revaluation' for the kids as he stumbled over to show them roughly how to play and keeping it on the lowest setting so he could keep up until the kids got the hang of it. It was not the most fun game without music but there was only so much the old man could do on short notice that would not kill his bones.

"Follow the lights, when it reaches the line there step on the arrow that matches. I know it's not THAT fun but these old bones can't carry you all around all day long so lets try and play a less active game for these old bones ok?"

Rolls

Morpheus enjoying the chance to be great great great grandpa to some kids. (4-G returns!)

Roll Result
1d100 (1) = 1
For a better tomorrow | Morpheus | Old man be poor 40gp to the kids.

Player Sheet Link

 

[Fiora Di Angelo]

AP:: 3/3
2 AP spent
Location: High March
Prompt: Greed of the Pauper
Narrator Tag: @Pandora*

The words 'Nondisclosure Agreement' only made things sound way more professional than they actually were. It wasn't hard to tell the armor was a fake replica, and that most things ressembling gold in color probably wouldn't do for good armor in the first place.

"No need to explain any of that. Just tell me what I want to know."

Anything else was secondary at best. If this girl was honest or not, that would be left to her chances. It's not like she has many options here, other than her confidence having ups and downs between the way she looked at the knights and back at her.

A sense of safety she had never given the ginger the privilege of, and the insanity behind her prices, good or bad, were playing against that. But after a temporary silence she agreed by pulling up her ui, and before either knew, one singular purse dropped onto the palm of her hand, with the characteristic tingle of gold clashing with gold following.

"...Five hundred and I'll give you more if I like what I hear."

Fiora took one step closer to breach their private conversation distance, and outright breaking personal space now as she peered over this woman with her right eye, giving a short glimpse of the hollow socket that was the left, and yet it as empty as it is, it still feels like there is something staring at her through it.

"I'm all ears."

She "jested", given singular would fit more than plural in her case, while holding the purse out for her.

Rolls

Summary: Fiora took one half of the deal, and promised more if the information given was good enough, at the same time she stopped being friendly to peer pressure this girl.

Roll Result
1d100 (38) 10 = 48

Fiora Di Angelo | Greed of The Pauper | 1815