Open Lake Horatio Contemplative Waters (Open for 1)

[Alonso Thorlion]

Without much of a guide or goal, aimless wandering turned out to be the only course of action. It was a typical consequence in games such as Terrasphere. Even the dangers of death surrounding the realm in and out of the game world were a non-factor. If anything Alonso was lucky enough to hitch a ride at one point on a wandering civilian's cart, but otherwise his trek involved walking. Lots of it. But those were the perks of effectively managing a solo business where he can determine working hours: he can waste plenty of time within a silly MMO. Having the mindset of an adult well into his midlife who stood the test of time and hardship helped ease the balance of play and work.

Besides, having to keep walking after a couple days bored him out of his goddamn mind!

But patience was a virtue regardless of whether it was fantasy or reality. At one point the absurdly wide man reached the lake in question, its own size having no trouble making the Felis look like a stocky dwarf by comparison. The sheer presence of the area placed him into a calmer state once again, stress ripped from his shoulders. Maybe being further from civilization had something to do with those weird traits slapped onto his character, which he was sure did not exist four years ago, but numerous changes were made to the point where his current status was nothing new. It seemed the drawback of those five traits were a non-factor as well due to acquiring all of them.

"Just need my power gauntlet now," Alonso said to himself, chuckling with a wide grin. Hands rest on his hips as those bearish eyes scanned the area. Even if it was peaceful, some mob may spawn at any moment. Especially with the risk he was taking coming all the way out here. He did not see any other players, or if there were, they might not be anyone he recognized. Glancing down at the water, it turned out his grin never faltered. "Wonder if it's safe to go for a swim."

 

[Nyancy]

'Ey there, Giant. If ya planning' on swimmin' ah whateva ain't no skin off my back just do me a favah and don't scayah all tha fish away.

Approaching the lake carrying a small bucket and what appeared to be a homemade fishing pole made out of a stick, some thread, and a hook, Nyancy gave a friendly wave. The Felis, small by even Felis standards looked like a toy doll standing next to the giant of a man.

What you eat tah get that big anyhow? Just whole cows? Jeez, ya got a workout routine ya wanna share? I ain't payin' for no personal trainin' though unless you wanna get paid in fish ah whateva. You look like you level a mountain with those ahms. You tha fightin type? Ya know, one ah my people?

At first it might have seemed as though Nyancy was talking about them both being beastfolk, but this wasn't the case. Nyancy set down her rod and bucket, did a few hops, and threw some shadow punches. Then, as if expecting Alonso to know what she was doing, gave a smile and a wink.

You look like yah like a good fight too. I'm still trainin' but one ah these days I'm gonna be the strongest mascot the woyld's eva seen.

Nyancy stopped.

Ah, I nevah intraduced myself did I? Whea ah my mannahs, the name's Nyancy. Hobbies is fishin' and fightin' and today I came hea to fish this lake. How about yaself, Giant?

@Alonso Thorlion

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

Eyes grew wide, the man on edge as he turned to look behind him and to his sides. His attempt to find the source of the voice grew easier once he noticed a wave. Oh, right, looking down was always an option.

"Goddamnit, you came out of nowhere," he said. But what appeared to another, much smaller, Felis just kept on talking. And talking. Definitely sounded like a New Yorker the way she talked. Hell, if he zoned in on the other cat he might have thought he never left home! Okay this woman was quite chatty today. Either that or she was always like that.

And then she paused. Finally.

The massive Felis sighed. "Well first off you have about five questions you want me to answer. Yes, I'm more of a fighter than anything, I am built this way, and I wasn't about to offer services as a personal trainer." He took a breath, having less of a need to talk a thousand miles per hour, perking a brow as the hyper cat lady gave her name. Nyancy? Really? "Name's Alonso. Ended up coming all the way out here out of ... not sure if it was boredom, insanity, or too stubborn to stop? Took a while regardless. I didn't have any other priorities."

He placed another thought in his mind for later, possibly getting this world better forms of transportation. It should benefit both players and NPCs alike. "Honestly surprised someone else showed up. Was alone for nearly the entire trip here unless you passed by me at one point and I didn't notice. This lake is far from the usual spots in Astorea."

@Nyancy

 

[Nyancy]

Well, I'm somethin' of ah fishin' connoisseur, so when I heard about a lake up hea I thought well, I ain't doin' nuthin' let's go! And here I yam. As fah gettin' hea before ya, well if ya built fah powah I suppose I'm built fah speed ah whateva. Though don't take that the wrong way, cute little Nyancy can still throw ah mean right hook.

Suddenly, Nyancy stopped. Walking slowly around Alonso, Nyancy looked him up, head to toe taking all of giant man in.

You know what, since wea fightin' types an all, ya got any tips fah creatin' ya own martial aht? I'm tryin' tah think of a special way tah fight all on my lonesome and would appreciate any tips yah got. I was around four yeas ago before tha game shut everyone out, but back then I didn't really do nuthin' cept fah fish. I know what yah thinkin', yah fishin' right now ain't ya? And ya ain't wrong, but fishin' is sorta like meditation ya get me? So I'm fishin' and thinkin' about how tah get stronger.

Nyancy began to pace back and forth with her arms crossed.

Like yahself, I'm a physical type so I got some skill in martial ahts, crushin' weapons, and like I said earliah I'm pretty quick-like. I'm plannin' on learnin some magic latah but that's gotta wait until I get more of ah handle on what I can do now. So anyway, like I said, got any tips? Not lookin' for trainin' ah nothin, just curious as to how you go about takin' cayah of yaself in a fight.

@Alonso Thorlion

 

[Seto Kurama]

"Yaaaawwwwwwwnnnnnn" A gentle but long yawn escaped him as he stretched his arms upwards after he awoke from his spot underneath a tree situated near the lake. His vision still blurry, his eyes dimmed as he pulled himself up against the tree. "Ugh....What time is it?" He yawned again, after laying the palm of his hands on his thighs. He spent the next several moments gazing upon the glistering waters of the lake as his eyes, and by extension, his entire body began to wake up. It was at the end of those several moments that he found himself jouncing awake when he heard a familiar male voice citing some sort of surprise. "Hmm?" As he made a curious brow. He tilted his head over his shoulder, towards the source of the voice, revealing two figures, one massive, and one....normalish? That peeked his curiosity, considering few knew of this location besides for those whom lived nearby. So with this in mind, as the two in the distance began trading words, he began examining the two in earnest. Within seconds however, his found his eyes blinking in surprise. "Wha? A Beastkin taller than myself? With a physique to boost? What are the odds?"

He thought to himself. He couldn't outright know for certain, but from what he knew, and by how many Beastkin's he had met, there was only one man with a physique like that, Alonso, someone he had fought alongside a long time ago, although as a different man. He didn't know him very well from their few interactions but he hadn't remembered him either as a man who held grudges or one whom was outright hostile towards those who may not align with his designs. Perhaps he could have a interaction with him like he had with Lucia, only this time, he hoped It not include a philosophical debate.

With all this thinking of the past, his curiosity got the better of him. As a consequence, he pushed himself off the tree and began making his way over, leaving his white Haori(white jacket) on the ground, along the way. As he approached the two in a non hostile matter, showing his hands, he rose his voice towards the man in the distance, hoping to get his attention. "Alonso? Is that you? Apologies if I'm interrupting. My curiosity got the best of me." Having said that, he turned his attention to the little woman in comparison, whom was seemingly in awe of Alonso's size. "And sorry to you too, If I was interrupting your time with Alonso. I just had to see it for myself If it was him You can just call me Seto ." After saying that, as to ensure he didn't over step his bounds, he kept a safe distance of sorts as to ensure he didn't get too close. While he waited for a response, he took the initiative and continued, while placing his hands on his hips. "You guys certainly know your places. Besides for the locals, not many know of this lake." He mused out loud with a chuckle.


@Alonso Thorlion @Nyancy

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

The man shrugged, knowing full well he was built for power over speed. Although he was not slow, others were built to just zoom across the fields at eighty-eight miles per hour. "More often than not I expect someone fast to deal some damage. Just means I may be a bit sturdier by comparison." Looking down, he raised his arms up in surprise as Nyancy observed him. By walking that slow walk, which was almost unnerving. Maybe she really was one of those strange sorts of people who others usually avoid, but then, she was chipper enough and there were no signs of foul play otherwise.

Upon mention of four years ago he relaxed. "I had my share of time here four years ago too. Admittedly I ended up not logging back in a while before the game shut down, more so getting wrapped up in work and life in general. Don't think I've ever met you before, so either we didn't enter the same zone or you came in after I left effectively." Part of him felt terrible about that. He talked with a few people certainly, but he did not form some of the stronger friendships other players did in the end.

"But that aside, I also have both martial arts and crushing weapons, though a few things changed and I have something called battle spirits and spirit magic. Honestly the best thing I can tell you is to continue practicing your own way of fighting, adjusting some things, and go from there. Seems this game doesn't associate one particular mode of play and takes an all-purpose route. For me I ended up doing, eeer how to explain, rougher style of fighter so simple brawling, to wrestling, and threw in some boxing at one point. Admittedly I'm still getting used to this updated build," he responded.

He then gave another shrug. "Also don't do something stupid like running into a dungeon by yourself." Ears flicked as he heard footsteps approach the two of them. Looking over Nyancy, which was not all that difficult, his eyes widened again. "Seto? Well there's a surprise." He faced Seto, the Felis regaining a calmer grin. No matter if their only interactions were by way of business all those years ago, he still appreciated the familiarity. "I only got here several minutes ago actually, then I met Nyancy here."

Alonso folded his arms over that broad chest of his, shifting his feet into a more relaxed stance. "This is also my first time here for that matter. If anything it was by pure, bullshit luck I encountered her then you showed up." Baritone chuckles escaped the barbaric cat man. "Figured I should start heading out in at least some direction that's different than usual. Especially since Terrasphere came back out of nowhere."

@Nyancy
@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

Upon hearing something of a positive response from Alonso, he took that as a que of sorts to further approach the two until he was only several feet away. From there, at Alonso's remark, he furthered raised his eyebrow in surprise but made a genuine smile as a show of good faith, especially towards Nancy whom was a unknown to him. Before he could respond however, Alonso continued on, folding his massive, hulking like arms in the process. Wishing to show respect to a fellow veteran like himself, he obliged the man by choosing to be silent and listen. By the time Alonso finished however, Seto relaxed a bit himself, although his somewhat surprised expression remained. "Is that right? Well, I only returned a few days ago myself. I was making my way to the capital when I decided to take a rest here. Due to past events, I'm well acquainted with Astorea for the most part, so naturally, this was a good spot to take a rest before continuing." His expression turning to something more serious, he gently caressed the bottom of his chin as he continued to speak. "Hmm...well, I think I've been here for about two or three hours, give or take. I'm not not entirely sure since I was napping for most of it." Returning to a smile, he reverted to more laid tone as he spoke once more. "Probably a good idea If you know what you want to do. That said, it's not a bad idea either if you want to be a spirit like Lucia, whom I just encountered the other day." After he gave Alonso his two cents on the matter he brought up, Seto shifted his attention on little Nyancy whom was still standing near Alonso and himself. "Sorry again, I didn't mean to cut you out Nancy. As an apology, how about I'll help you out? " With a sly smile, he looked back at Alonso from the edge of his eyes. "I'm sure Astor can wait a little longer."

@Alonso Thorlion @Nyancy

 

[Nyancy]

Nyancy stood by and listened to Alanso before sinking deep into her own thoughts.

Hmm... my own way of fightin' eh? Well so fah I got some muscle powah thanks to all them workouts I been doin in the fahrest. I also got some speed thanks to these danceah's legs ah mine.

The notion that Nyancy believed she had anything closely approaching dancer's legs was hilarious as the tiny Felis stood at four foot five, an about average height for the diminutive Faerin race.

But I guess tha thing I need tah figure out is how ta turn this cute adorable little Nyancy body into a cute adorable weapon of mass destruction. Therein lies tha goal, Nyancy. I guess wea just gonna have tah take it step-by-step like Alonso was just sayin'.

As the pair conversed, suddenly Nyancy was brought back into the conversation by Seto.

Ah, no hahm done ah nothin' I just met Mr. Alonso hea. Not my place tah get in between the reunion of two old wah buddies ah whateva. But yah from the befah times to, eh? I was hea foh yeahs ago befah the great vanishin' ah whateva ya wanna call it. Didn't do much 'cept fish and play in the fahrest in those days. Still do, but I guess now I'm tryin' tah make somethin' of myself. Gotta be strong if ya gonna be the woyld's mascot ya know? But if ya offerin' help then I don't see why I don't take ya up on tha offah.

Scratching her chin once more, Nyancy walked around Seto and studied him as she had done with Alanso.

Now, I'm just guessin hea but I'm thinkin' Mr. Seto hea is built fah speed in a fight, am I right? Yah look like a quick one. Which battle wise, puts me somewhea in-between the two of ya. I got tha martial ahts and crush weapons like Mr. Alonso, and I got some speed like Mr. Seto, respectively.

Finishing studying Seto, Nyancy walked in front of him and faced him while crossing her arms thoughtfully.

Maybe ya can answah some questions fah me in that case. First, assuming I was right and ya are a speed type, how'd ya get fast, then how'd ya get fastah? Just practice? Second, seems to me we all have owah own way ah fightin' what's youahs and how'd ya learn it? Ya come up with it yaself? Again, just practice ah what? Only askin' cause like I was tellin' Mr. Alonso hea, I'm trying tah come up with my own little martial aht. A Nyancy martial aht unique to Nyancy.

@Alonso Thorlion @Seto Kurama

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

"Can't say I'm familiar with Lucia. Unfortunately I wasn't too social I'll admit." Even with his small confession it turned out Seto had not been here all that long. Good to know people were about on similar levels of figuring things out. The Felis's thoughts were interrupted again as Nyancy began her NASCAR levels of discussion. She never seemed to run out of words and kept the conversation going, but what she asked was at least reasonable. Terrasphere did have a level of observation needed to enjoy any of the game's mechanics. Well, some parts were less mechanics and more sadistic nuisances.

His eyes watched the much smaller cat wander around Seto as she did with Alonso prior. The brute looked back up at his old acquaintance and said, "She did this to me already. Didn't seem like she did any harm in the end." Thinking on the other man's words as they waited, Alonso released a snort along with a chuckle. "Astor was a real pain in the ass sometimes wasn't he? Didn't he talk about a jacuzzi or something while we were busy trying not to get burned alive by a fuckin' fire monster? There are a lot of things people wanted to say."

Attention went back once more to Nyancy. While her inquiries can definitely be wrong due to how separated player character appearance was from actual mastery build, she was still perceptive. "You might have to ask Seto about his actual build instead of just guessing." In truth while Alonso did remember more dexterous and agile techniques, he might be wrong and his memory shot.

Leaning forward slightly, he perked a brow. "And for someone who was here to fish you sure changed your mind quickly," he said, giving a wry grin to the smaller Felis. He was teasing, of course, standing to his full height as his eyes scanned the area again. If there were a couple mobs here to test things on they might have a better way to test a few theories, but life went on either way.

@Nyancy
@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

After he heard Alonso's remark, he tilted his head ever so slightly. He had never met Lucia before? Hearing that only made him confused. He hadn't been close to Lucia either but he swore on Sayoko's grave that he had met her at least once, even If said time was only for business. Thinking that far back only caused certain memories to flash before him, specifically those during Astorea's turmoil, when he and Alonso fought together to defend Astorea. He than remembered Lucia than their two personalities. In this regard, considering Lucia was basically the opposite, he couldn't fault him for not remembering someone such as her. He only remembered her due to their past grudges of sort when they were forced to work together. He was about to make a remark of his own regarding the matter when Nancy interrupted him with her introduction. Not wanting to be rude to her either, despite the little reunion he was having with Alonso, he nonetheless snapped his attention back on the cute, Beastkin girl, retaining his smile in the process. He learned alot from her short introduction, citing she had been around the first time like himself and Alonso though, perhaps due to some wisdom she had.....or through dumb luck, she never got involved with the politics that eventually culminated into two different wars. If she had been involved, he couldn't remember but considering she looked and acted like that Trinity A.I of sorts, he very well doubted he would have forgotten about her.

If the former was the case, It was good she wanted to do something with her life here. He wouldn't expect her or anyone for that matter to do what he and Alonso did but It was nice to see another wanting to be productive on some level. On that note, as she finished, citing she was glad to take him up on his offer, he made a friendly nod as acknowledgement before she began eyeing him from top to bottom. At Alonso's interjection, he found himself tilting his head in his direction, raising one of his eyebrow's in the process. "Heh....yeah, I can kinda see that." Muttering in a surprised manner, he quickly found his eyes returning back on Nancy whom was still examining him. He wanted to say something but he just stood there instead, letting Nancy do her thing or at least, that was the plan. That suddenly changed when he heard some snorting and chuckling, no doubt from Alonso who, went on to mention somewhat of a a distain for the man that was now King. Upon hearing that, a small chuckled escaped from himself before a laid back, relaxing like tone took over, while he still remained in place. "No doubt....buuut I still feel some sense of loyalty towards the country we both helped founded." A light sigh than came after, along with a slightly more serious tone. "Yeah no kidding, Azog was definitely a troublesome one....I should know....I almost died....Probably would have, If wasn't for my wife. She ended up carrying my sorry ass to safety."

Having said that last part half jokingly, that was around the time Nancy had cut in, making a educated guess that his speed was his primarily strength. Surprised by how quickly she came to that conclusion, he couldn't help but instantly turn in her direction, clearing impressed by her observation abilities. In any event, as he spoke up, he nodded his head in approval. "Good eye. I've always been something of a expert in blitzkrieg maneuvers." After giving her something of a confirmation, he watched her as she made her way around to face him. Staring him down, she proceeded to, as Alonso described, her "NASCAR" level of questioning, asking several within the timespan of just a few moments. Despite this however, as someone whom was used to multi tasking, this was nothing new to him, especially when he used to be bombarded with countless question from several students at once. As a response, perhaps to her dismay, he shrugged his shoulders before spoke up in a much more serious tone. "There is no easy answer quite frankly. If you want to be skilled, to be taken seriously, you need to train....but training will only take you so far. One doesn't master their craft until they faced death straight in the eye. You also need to make a decision. Being a warrior requires dedication...and a certain mindset. Without either, you never become something greater than what you are now. Trust me, I know from experience, from this world....and the other." Upon thinking on her second question, he tapped the edge of his chin with his finger as he tilted his head up briefly at the sky before looking back down towards her. "Trial by error mostly, although said trials were mostly when I was at constant war for my survival. Don't know about my friend here, but back in my early days? I faced death on a near, constant basis. It either learn to adapt....or die." He shrugged again but made a sympathetic face at the same time as continued to speak. "Sorry If that wasn't too helpful Nancy but learning from experiences is usually the best way to learn." With that, he sighed once more before turning a bit more serious. "While I can't help much in you becoming something like Alonso, who functions much like a berserking, Norse warrior when pissed, I could teach you a thing or two about being a warrior of the east, provided you use what I teach you for the right reasons. I have no intention on taking on an apprentice If it means they act on evil intent..."

After he finished responding, he heard Alonso but chose to be quiet for the time being, having basically already given Nyancy more than enough to figure out what type of a warrior he was. That said, a subtle chuckle did escape him when he heard Alonso mention Nyancy 's quick transition from wanting to fish, to wanting to learn how to become a better fighter. He knew he was teasing her but it was still funny. It reminded him of the old days with Sola, a woman he hoped he wouldn't meet again, If only to preserve his sanity above all else.

@Alonso Thorlion @Nyancy

 

[Nyancy]

Nyancy looked at Alonso with a sly smile.

Well ya see, Mr. Alonso. I've been fishin' a long time, and one thing ya learn from fishin' is that ya always want to catch the bigga fish. Right now, I just caught two legendary veteran types on ah fluke. The information the two of yas gives me on gettin tah bein' strongah is gonna get me a lot fahther than the meat of any fish in tha like ova theyah.

Nyancy winked.

But so far, what I'm hearin' is basically, I just need tah practice and figuah it out, which is about what I expected, though its good tah know possible outcomes ah trainin' and tah have some examples ah what yah tryin' tah do.

Lookin' back at Seto, Nyancy respectfully shook her head.

Appreciate it Mr. Seto, but nah, no thanks. Nuthin' personal but like I told Mr. Alonso hea, I ain't really lookin' for trainin' ah apprenticeship, more ah just ideas on where tah get where I want. Fah the most part, before tha world went down I mostly just stuck tah fishin' and just learned enough tah defend myself against wolves and beahs. That was enough, but yah can't be the woyld's mascot if ya hidin' in the fahrest all the time.

Nyancy looked up to the sky as she thought aloud. It was a beautiful day and the wind rippling over the lake's waters was perfect.

Besides, I feel like I should do my paht to make the woyld a bit bettah ya know? Lotta things went down all them yeahs ago, felt like I shoulda been a paht of it. So now here I am, thinkin' about what tah do. Honestly, I nevah wanted to really be ah hero ah nuthin', but in this woyld it seems powah is just about everythin' ya know? Who knows, maybe the woyld needs one moah little hero like Nyancy.

Nyancy looked back at the two men and laughed while slapping her knee.

Ah, but look at cute adoyable little Nyancy gettin all serious like. Anyways, while ahm not lookin' for teachahs ah nuthin' I am always lookin fah friends.

Nyancy held up her two small hands above her head looking something like a red panda attempting to defend itself.

High five's all aharound.

Nyancy waited for the two man to each give her a high five.

@Alonso Thorlion @Seto Kurama

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

Reminders of the struggles the players back then were cold, but in an ironic twist held some warmth to them. Keeping those things in the past was the way continue forth, learning from them all the same no matter someone's age. Alonso was certain he had a working brain. He just had to see how life went, and see if he was still ready to handle any of those situations once again this go around if Terrasphere became another series of political intrigue.

One of those modes of learning was to keep quiet and let others speak. The man was in a good mood all things considered, feeling little need to be overbearing or aggressive in his mannerisms. Perhaps the last four years of mostly stress free living was a good thing, giving him a fresher mind before the return of this other world. Throughout the conversation he let out a few more chuckles, even if some of his inner self wanted to call Nyancy's words cringe. That was the word used nowadays, right? Cringe? There were far too many different age groups roaming about the internet for Alonso to keep up with half the time.

For a moment, confusion wracked his brain. High fives all around? As far as he knew they were two grown men and possibly a grown woman, but then again, even with blocked access to apps outside of Terrasphere this was still part of the internet. Either of his companions could have been someone else entirely!

Crouching down, the man gave in. He reached out his hand gave a nice tap on one of Nyancy's palms. After all he was not sure if his passive might was going to hurt someone by accident. "Alright, there's your five from me," Alonso said, still giving out that grin of his. Sure, some parts of this interaction were annoying, but it was worth it since having allies in this game proved to be beneficial on multiple occasions. It did not matter how deadly the encounter was, from simple wolves to Azog just about nobody can learn everything by themselves.

But one part of Nyancy's speech provoked something in Alonso's mind.

"But you know, that reminds me..." he began, going back to his full height and looking at Seto, "With everything that went down all that time ago, we didn't really go out all that far. Actually I don't think we've even scratched the surface of what the deal is with this game internally. What was the furthest any player traveled? Nyancy mentioning the world just makes me think we didn't push enough. Wasn't there some dignitary or something we spoke with at, what was it, the ceremony before a few of us were given titles? Al-something?"

He knew their newest friend may not know, but he hoped this information helped her out in the long run in some way.

@Nyancy
@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

Hearing Nyancy's answer, Seto made a smile in response as he shrugged his shoulders. "Fair enough, but if you want advice? I would suggest you build your future abilities and techniques around your lifestyle, as you continue to grow in skill. For example, for quite some time after I first arrived here, I was nothing but a mere swordsmen without any noteworthy ability. I would go where ever the road took me but as a result, I often found myself facing brigands, wolves, orc's, even trolls at times. Being significantly weaker than I am now, I had to look for any tactical advantage I could get, whether that meant imbuing my blade with raw magical energies to make sure my blade not only swung faster, but cut deeper as well, to using certain magic's to either confuse of stun my opponent. If I hadn't used my head, I would have died yet If I had decided on something else when I first started, such as being a crafter, I would have never learned these basic abilities, which than, would have never became the basic frame work for the abilities that I would later go on to create. What I'm trying to say is use your life style as inspiration, used what you learned and apply it." Not finished with the topic at hand, Seto turned the entirely of his body towards the lake before he continued. "Better example, lets say I was a fisherman like yourself, but was in charge of catching fish for their village. As I'm sure your aware, fishing can be very time consuming yet at the same time, like a hunter stalking a deer, a fisherman needs to be able to outsmart their prey, so how do you go about catching a large quantity of fish within a short period of time? Well? in my case, as I'm a master at employing lightning, If I control it's output and and change it's form to widen the radius, I can create something akin to a casting net, so when I launch the attack in the water, anything caught within it's radius will immediately be immobilized, allowing me to collect whatever was caught. Now applying what I just learned, If I refine it, I could apply it to a combat situation, to either stun my enemies, keeping them in place, or using it akin to a land mine, that when stepped on, will continually shock them until they either die, or manage step off the trap."

After having said all that, Seto couldn't resist the urge to sigh before he titled his head in Nyancy's direction. "I know that was alot to take in but I hoped it helped. Figuring out this type of thing can be difficult when you over think it." For a moment afterwards, he expected something from Nyancy but what he got was not what he had expected. Instead of a thank you or an acknowledgement, he instead found himself at the forefront of Nyancy mentioning she ought to do more even though she never had any intent on becoming a hero. While he, himself would never be a hero, as he had no right to be one, It was nonetheless, he considered it a worthy endeavor for Nyancy , as long as she continued to do it for the right reasons like she said. He was about to say something on the matter when suddenly out of nowhere, Nyancy began laughing and...slapping her knee? This only caused him to raise a eyebrow, even as she explained herself. Sighing somewhat disappointingly as a natural response, Seto instantly made a faint grin as he crouched down with Alonso and gave a gentle slap to her one, free palm. When Alonso grabbed his attention a few seconds later however, asking If the world had been explored in any real capacity, Seto couldn't help but look at the man in a confused but intrigue matter. "Now that you mention it, I'm not entirely sure. I never really thought about it to be honest. I was a much different person back than, I only ever really cared about Astoreain politics and the occasional monster hunt that required my battle prowess." As If he wasn't amused by his own answer, his demeanor turned more serious as he folded his arms. "That said, I'm not surprised. Most players see this world as nothing more than a game, hence It's a given most just kick back and relax. I can't fault them for that. Even I fall victim to it occasionally." He than turned his attention on Alonso, shrugging his shoulder in the progress. "It was so long ago, I can't quite remember, but I do remember meeting you a few times before Astor's coronation and him passing out our tittles shortly afterwards. Regardless, I do believe there is an explorer guild of sorts now, If the rumors are to be true, but whether or not they actually explore the unknown is another topic altogether."

@Alonso Thorlion
@Nyancy

 

[Nyancy]

After the pair of high fives, Nyancy looked to Seto. He had given her a lot of information but it was exactly what she had asked for and she had taken it in like a sponge. Nyancy began pacing. She did this when she was deep in thought, and right now she felt like she was on the verge of coming up with something major.

Hmmm... the two of yas have given me a lot tah think about. Ah, and I mean that in ah good way. From the two of yas I get that yah kinda built ya style as ya went because it was ah necessity to stay breathin'. I dunno that I wanna put my little self in ah situation like that ah nuthin' but ya make a good point. Even I had tah learn sumthin' so I wouldn't get eaten by beahs while fishin'.

Still pacing back and forth, Nyancy kept talking out loud though it was mostly to herself as she watched her feet walk while she paced.

But ya both mixed what yah had intah a fightin' style. Mr. Alonso added different kinds ah martial ahts into his and then some spirit magic tah boot. Mr. Seto ova hea gets creative with lightnin' and uses his swoahd and speed tah get the job done. Basically, I just need tah figyah out ah way to put all tha things I can do togetha to make a fightin' style. Actually, that sounds kinda neat if ya ask me. Guess I'll have tah get on it then!

Nodding to herself Nyancy, looked back at the two men.

So basically, I just gotta use some speed and magic like Mr. Seto, and some martial ahts and magic like Mr. Alonso, then squeeze all that intah an adoyble little package and make it Nyancy style. Not tah mention from the looks of it, if Mr. Alonso is on one side ah the spectrum, and Mr. Seto ova hea is on the otha. Nyancy style would be somewhere in between. Real fast, but hit hard enough to punch through ah mountain. That typah thing. I think I get it. Thanks chaymps, this was all real good info. Gave me some good ideas.

Now that her battle-style questions were over, Nyancy had other questions about the people Alonso and Seto had been speaking about. As someone who had been in the game prior to the lockout, she had heard of lots of people in passing, but never herself really knew anyone of import, at least that should could think of. Now the two in front of her were talking about big names as if they were just people you met at a bar on a Tuesday night after work.

So, hope ya don't mind me bargin' in again but did you say Astah? King Astah? that guy? Ya were friends with him? Don't take this personal ah nuthin' but I gotta ask. Rumor has it that guy had a thing fah Felis types like myself. In fact, I heahd from quite a few Felis' that it was a good idea to stay away from him fah just that reason.

Nyancy crossed her arms as she continued.

I nevah ran intah him, but decided if I did I should probably keep him at ahm's reach ah whateva so he didn't try an take me out on any dates ah nuthin, you know on account ah my natural beauty and womanly chahms. Not really intah the whole romance thing in this woyld neitha. Plus, I'm aimin' tah be a mascot and it would be weiahd to have ah boyfriend ya know?

Looking to Seto, Nyancy brought up another character.

And you twos mentioned Lucia as well. I heahd about her befah. Ain't she some kinda undead queen ah sumthin'? Seems a bit scary. Like, did yah make all them undead friends cause yah couldn't make any breathin' ones? If that's the case, Nyancy will be ya friend, but maybe pump tha breaks on the whole "undead ahmy" plan. It's makin' people nervous yah know?

@Alonso Thorlion @Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

Catching his attention, his eyes beamed on Nyancy as she began to pace herself in-between himself and Alonso. While she spoke her mind, acknowledging the two for their help in her little problem, he followed Alonso's example, pulling himself up off the ground until he too, was back at his normal height. Glad to have been some help to a fellow player, Seto turned to Nyancy and smiled. "Is that right? We'll I'm happy to have helped! But remember, there's no need to rush. You got all the time in the world. Good things come in time." He continued to watch her as she continued to pace herself and talking out loud. He was beginning to wonder If she always did this? If this was the case, he could see how this might annoys others. Fortunately for him, due to both his real life experiences and the ones he had here, he grown a very high tolerance level for this type of thing, especially after he met Sola all those years ago. If anyone could get under his skin, It was that woman. He chuckled a bit when Nyancy made a presumption his combat style revolved only around, speed, lightning and his blade. "Well note quite, but since you couldn't have known, It's alright." Upon saying that, he turned more serious, evident as his normal, deep tone of voice returned. "In all seriousness, I'm probably one of the fastest people you ever meet, and I can almost guarantee you, I'm most likely the fastest individual in this kingdom, as besides for being a true master of the Dynamism arts, and having a mastery of lightning, I also have a similar mastery over time itself, granting me true, teleportation like speed when I combine all three arts. I'm also a master over the art of defense, but that is a given. While a warrior must know how to attack, defense is just as important. If you forget and over stretch yourself, you will die." Relaxing his shoulders and closing his eyes with a sympathetic smile, Seto caressed the side of his check with one of his fingers. "Sorry about that, I just take fighting super seriously."

He said that, but as soon as he did, Nyancy had changed the topic, this time, about his, and presumably, Alonso's relations with Astor. Caught off guard somewhat by the question, he raised a eyebrow as his eye lids flashed open, revealing the last remnant of Merkaba's influence over him, his crimson red eyes. With his eyes now opened, he took on a more casual approach. Despite that however, there was still enough hints in his voice that he wanted to be taken seriously. "Again, not quite, but we did serve under his banner during the civil war that led up to the founding of Astorea. Due to our service, as well as our contributions in rebuilding the kingdom afterwards, both me and Alonso were made nobles, along with a few others. If I remember correctly, Alonso was made a Marquess, while me and Lucia were made Dukes. Some time after that, when the "Mad King" had invaded, as in no large part due to our responsibilities as nobles, both me and Alonso marched to war, alongside the King. He played hero while me and Lucia stayed behind to defend the capital. I believe Alonso had a important mission of his own, but aside from leading a small force of players himself, I cannot remember the specific's unfortunately. Anyway, when the King was done being playing hero, me and a few others personally joined his task force, where we led an assault on the Mad King and slew him." When he thought of the next segment of Nyancy's questions, Seto just shrugged his shoulders and made a sly smile. "Don't know anything about that, but considering he had several beastkin women serving him, such as that healer of his, I wouldn't be surprised if he had some plutonic harem or something." He laughed hard after that. While he doubt Astor had any sort of a haram for hedonistic pleasures, It was nonetheless, funny to think about.

After he was finished getting his kicks in, Seto calmed himself with a exhale of air before he answered the last of Nyancy's questions. "Right, well as I said, both Lucia and me and fell from the same branch so to say. Besides for being equals in terms of political power, we were both masters over the dark arts, albeit in different ways. While she focused on summoning the undead and creating powerful curses through rituals, my old self focused on implementing dark magic through direct combat. Though we were wildly different back than, and still are to some extent today, looks can be deceiving. Lucia is a rather nice individual as long as you show respect towards her trade and don't pretend to take this world for granted. She didn't tell me, but I could tell this second life of hers was the only life she cared about, thus any mention of this world being a game will earn her wrath and no, before you ask, nothing will save you from that. Lucia even stronger than me, and that's saying something. That said, If your on her good side, you got nothing to worry about regarding her undead. There sentient and highly civilized. Calling them "undead" is a grave insult to them, so I would avoid calling them that If you can."

@Alonso Thorlion
@Nyancy

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

Though disappointed, he figured it was inevitable that memories were not going to be clear. No point in faulting the other man. "Was an idea that popped into my head honestly. Regardless of that I'll take your word for it and maybe go find that Explorer's Guild at some point." Before getting another word in, the other two started up a lengthier conversation once again.

Once Nyancy thanked them at one point in her shtick, the giant of a cat raised a hand for her to take it easy. "Alright, alright, you're welcome. But again Seto gets the most credit since I'm not one to go into a thorough explanation like that. Trust me, I've had a habit of explaining less since I've had to build computers for clients who look at me like I'm fuckin' stupid the moment I say any word more complicated than a mouse or keyboard. Guess I have a preference for sticking to the point, but none of that little rant is towards you specifically," he said. The man rolled his shoulders, getting a few kinks out.

Eyes rolled again upon mention of Astor's more peculiar desires. "Astor fit into the role of royalty living in luxury way too well. On the point of him having a, um, notable group of beastfolk, I was not part of THAT group. I would've never stepped foot in that castle again if that was the case. Thankfully I'm not his type and he is far from mine," Alonso continued, eyes shifting upwards in thought before continuing, "Despite my interest in men. I may be forty-eight years old by I still have some standards. Besides, worth noting even those without a title like Duke or Marquis gladly told him off even after he was king. For good reason."

Alonso rubbed his eyes with an index finger and thumb. He soon spoke up again, "As for not wanting a date in this world that is for the best. People on the internet like to display certain sides of themselves that aren't exactly desirable. I for one place my vote on keeping up with the mascot goal." Part of him said that as a reminder to himself. Either that or trying to use one of those dating apps only once was not a good way to judge other people his age looking. Probably the latter, but he knew he still had more of a life ahead of him, and Terrasphere wasn't the place for that.

The topic of Lucia did not bother him. At least one player was going to go the magic route of summoning the bodies of those once living, as well as the dark arts, but those were harmless most of the time. Seto having some mode of respect for her ensured this person was trustworthy. "Honestly I wouldn't put much stock into throwing bullshit cliches towards someone choosing a dark magic kind of mastery unless they actually did something heinous. This world's residents may follow something more generic, but if Lucia is someone who isn't out to take over the world or somethin' stupid like that I wouldn't bother her," the Felis confirmed towards Seto.

If anything, Lucia may be someone else to seek out as well if she kept playing Terrasphere after Alonso stopped.

@Nyancy
@Seto Kurama

 

[Nyancy]

Nyancy listened and followed along as the two men described Astor and Lucia in their own way. It was apparent that both of them saw them as at least decent people while making Lucia out to be more of a priestess than some type of evil necromancer hellbent on ruling a world of undead minions.

Hmm... dually noted.

Nodding in agreement, Nyancy continued.

Well that's all interestin' ah whateva, but didn't y'all come hea for some reason ah somthin'? I mean seeing as how tha three ah us just happened to be hea by kawinky-dinks is pretty odd itself, but fah the most paht I just came hea to fish. Wasn't really plannin' on getting any fightin' tips but ya know, life's odd that way sometimes ain't it? But I figyah y'all came this way fah a reason to and it probably wasn't tah fish.

Nyancy scratched her chin as though she was interested in the her next question.

So what y'all up tah all the way up hea. Goin' on any adventuahs now ah anytime soon?

@Seto Kurama @Alonso Thorlion

 

[Seto Kurama]

Finding attraction in Alonso's interest in possibly joining the Explorer's Guild, he gave a nod of confirmation. Although he couldn't join himself, else he leave Astorea defenseless, he was nonetheless curious about the entire ordeal. He wondered how far this world went, and If any unknown society or civilization existed out there, in the unknown regions. If there was, he hoped there was one like his own in the other world. These whole European like fantasy kingdoms were kinda an annoyance and a eyesore. His thought process changed when Alonso made mention he didn't do much to help compared to himself, this triggered the man to look at him with something akin to a smirk. "I didn't really do all that much, just gave a few hints of advice. Really, the rest is up to Nyancy." Keeping with his act, he beamed his attention on Nynacy as he continued "Isn't that right?...Our future, little mascot? Trinity got nothing on you." Look back at Alonso, he dropped the smirk and instead took on a more laid back expression as he nodded to agree with his sentiment. "Oh trust me, I get it, I have a tenancy to do something similar myself, even when I'm trying to teach internal mechanic's of vehicles and and street level techniques. Most of my students just end up looking at me dumb founded." Moments later, after the conversation about Astor had continued with Alonso showing a further distain for the man, Seto tittered out loud, especially as he went on to comment he not only had standards, but that he had no issue in telling Astor off, regardless if he had rank or not. "Damm straight! That's how it should be!" He calmed down a bit. "While I may have strong ties to Astorea itself, I cannot say the same for Astor. As he is King, I will follow his orders, If only out of duty, but that doesn't mean I'll tolerate whatever order he gives. If I feel his judgement as a just ruler is waning, I will tell him so, and If he continues, I'll kill him. The last thing we need is a poor leader." A few moments later when Lucia took center stage, both Alonso and Nynancy made their opinions known on the matter but by the end of it, he couldn't do anything but shrug with a slight, disappointed face. "As I've said, you probably have nothing to fear. Lucia's past was alot like my own, but as time went, she grew as a person, and much like myself, she managed to turn over a new leaf, especially after she entered Synra's service as a Priestess."

When he finished, that was the moment Nyancy too the opportunity to ask what the lot of them were doing, and what there plans were. In response, he gave the tip of his chin a rub before he cleared his throat to talk. "Not particularly, I just made a pit stop along the way since I knew of this place from way back than. I was taking a nap under a tree before you two arrived. It's one of several lakes located within the region, and this one particularly, just happens to be on the way to the capital, which has been my destination since I arrived here a few days ago." At the mention of "adventure" however, he rose his brows. "As for adventuring, I can't say for certain but I'd imagine I'll be hunting down monsters and the alike after I take my vows to serve Astorea. I rarely ever had a dull moment back than, I doubt that will change now." Resting his one hand on his hip, he ignored the two for the moment as he turned to face the glittering waters that made up the lake. Only his third day in, and things were still getting interesting. He began to wonder just how many more, notable people he would meet, and not just the notable individuals like Alonso and Lucia, whom he already knew, but individuals like Nyancy and most likely, much to his sanity, Sola. Just thinking of Sola however, made him sigh. There was nothing he could do to prepare himself for her. He only he wouldn't die from her way of thinking, or rather, lack of.

@Alonso Thorlion
@Nyancy

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

"A few. Sure," he said to Seto about the advice, giving slight shakes of his head. By now he regretted his lack of social interaction even more. There were a few things both he and the swordsman shared. Having that sense of a tighter companionship felt like a weight just soared off the Felis's shoulders.

Once the next surge of ranting was finished, all in their right in Alonso's eyes, the question of what they were doing here was brought up. He almost forgot this was another area entirely and not the typical spree of players collaborating in a densely populated area. "Gotta admit, I came here to push myself in efforts to explore this world more. A risk coming here by myself, I know, but it was a matter of starting from somewhere." Having more trustworthy allies in the mix was a surprising, but welcome, gift as well. An old one and a new one. "Suppose I can call it getting a feel of things before making larger decisions such as joining up with one of the player groups."

Even if he did have a reputation of some kind, it had been so long it was likely just a moment most can just toss out of their minds. He never did focus on training up skills or finding the most important NPC to form a relationship with. Well, there was that collie he met once, and as much as he wanted to keep the dog he knew it belonged to someone else within Terrasphere's realm.

"More importantly, I've been wanting to see how far I can travel. If I remember correctly this lake is about where our borders end in one direction. Now, before either of you say anything, I'm not just gonna take a leap into distant places without preparing or having second thoughts. The only reason I figure it's possible to head off into less known areas is due to how I'm built compared to any fresh player," Alonso said. He knew he may get an earful, but that was a consequence he was willing to take.

@Nyancy
@Seto Kurama

 

[Nyancy]

Nyancy nodded as both men explained their plans.

So an explorah and one that needed a nap befoah they go an devote themselves tah protectin a country. You two ah pretty interestin' ya know that. And thanks for tha tips. To be frank with the two of yahs, I just came hea to fish, but aftah heain' about ya two's plans, maybe I'll join up with one ah them groups.

Nyancy began pacing again as she thought about the different groups that she knew were currently looking for manpower.

Explorin' doesn't sound interestin' tah me tah be honest. The Lion's sound good but ah dunno, I'm a bit of ah free spirit and they seem like they need alotta ya time. Not that that's a bad thing ah nuthin' just I don't know if they feel right ya know? Adventurah's guild could sound right, but I don't know, I like havin funds an all, but I feel ah hero is moah than just fame and fortune. I think I wanna give back ah bit moah.

Nyancy twiddled her widdle thumbs as she thought.

That basically leaves MIT, but I ain't much of ah researchah. Maybe if they got otha jobs that would wohk. I'm pretty good with keepin people in line ya know? Not bad with creative ways tah make some funds either. Not tah mention I like the idea of wahkin with people that could change tha woyld, and makin' sure they don't go crazy and make a Frankenstein ah nuthin.

Nyancy shrugged.

Well anyways. Anyone wanna do some fishin or swimmin' or fishin an swimmin? The watah look real nice today.

@Alonso Thorlion @Seto Kurama