Shrouded Isle: Forgotten Knowledge [Event/Kill Viable]

The smell of bacon cooking over a hot flame wafted through the air. "Rise and shine, sweethearts!" Abel shouted, loud enough to wake anyone that hadn't from the delicious scent of a hot breakfast. When the treasure-hunters stumbled out of their tents bleary-eyed, hungover, or well-rested, Abel served them a plate with a friendly smile. The treasure-hunters would be given time to eat their fill before being split into their pre-determined groups. Ariella, Ayero, Noir and Adrastos were approached by Tyrus and the seven other archaeologists that remained. They carried packs filled with various instruments to measure and examine artifacts. Some of them had long tubes connected to their gear, which held blank scrolls to document anything of interest they found.

Tyrus greeted the treasure-hunters with an uneasy smile, "H-hello. I guess you are with us then? You ready to go see this ruins?" Even though worry was etched on his face, there was a hint of excitement. Surely, the sacrifice that had been made so far on this cursed island meant that the riches of knowledge at the end would be worth it. He pulled out a copy of the treasure map Trixie had shown them last night. Scanning over it, Tyrus got his bearings before pointing into the dense treeline. "Looks like we should be going that way."

With a loud groan, the island rumbled, awake once more. The crab-like creatures from the day before began surging out of the water along the beach. Madam Trixie quickly unsheathed her twin blades, running to the creatures. "GO NOW! We'll handle these bastards! Remember to hurry up, the fog closes tomorrow!"

---

The group traveled through the forest, weaving between tall, evenly-spaced trees that stretched high into the sky. After coming across a small creek, Tyrus suggested the group follow it downstream, to see if it connected to a river indicated on the map. His instinct proved true after a few minutes when the creek merged with another. Soon the sound of rushing water could be heard and they came across a wide river that cut its way through the forest. A series of waterfalls fed the river, over stepping-stone slopes cut into the earth.


Walking alongside the river, Tyrus led the group upstream to climb to higher ground. They traveled for a few hours before they came across a small clearing. Tyrus called for a small break so they could catch their breath for a moment. The temperature had seemed to rise several degrees during the past hour making the humidity unpleasant. Wiping the sweat from his brow, Tyrus pulled out a flask of water and took a drink. "If we keep up a steady pace, I think we'll be close to the ruins in a few more hours. This heat is unbear-"

"Tyrus! Behind you!" One of the archaeologists shouted, pointing to a creature that had suddenly appeared while the man was talking.


Tyrus spun around and let out a squeal of terror at the sight of an odd plant-like creature. He fumbled backwards and ended up falling on his rear end, three meters from the Chryllosapper. The creature slashed out at the fallen man with its razor-sharp claws fashioned of leaves. Before it could hit Tyrus, however, an arrow struck the beast in its head. The Chryllosapper fell to the ground with a green ooze leaking from its wound. If one with an archer’s eyesight were to follow the trajectory that the arrow had taken, they would catch a glimpse of movement in the treetops across the river, thirty meters away. It would be evident that the shot had taken great skill to pull off through so many branches.

In the span of a heartbeat, six more Chryllosappers appeared twenty meters away from the adventurers. Three blocked their path forward, while three more blocked a retreat from the back. A Chryllosapper on either side launched a Gunk Shot towards the group, hoping to catch as many people as possible in a large ball of acid. One of the Chyrllosappers in the rear moved in to get close to the nearest target. If anyone got within five meters of it, the plant-creature would release a burst of Fickle Spores, causing anyone nearby to have a fit of violent sneezing.

---

OOC: No posting order. Please post within 48 hours.

”Combat Details”:

As the loud voice of Abel echoing around the camp and delicious smell of bacon lingering in the air waking Noir up, the black haired girl surprised as she noticed that she fell asleep pretty deep and didn’t even put up her guard. She got out from the tent looking very refreshed and ready to continue the journey, but her stomach had been answering the call from the delicious bacon ever since she smelled the delicious scent so Noir gratefully accepted the plate filled with breakfast from Abel and thanking him before finally enjoying the food.

After they were finished by their breakfast and split into a group, the black haired girl looked at the member of the group and found her mentor, Ayero and the lightning magician she saw at Magno to be in the same group as her. It would be inconvenience if they don’t know each other name as she realized team work was the most important thing to survive, that if they were willing to work as a team. The black haired girl approached the other lightning magician and greeted, “Noir Ecryola, nice too meet you miss.” Hoping she could learn one or two things while they were together from her.

After that, Tyrus approached them with uneasy smile and Noir assumed that he might be nervous, but he proceeded to explain the route to them. Their journey to the ruin started to begin early as the crab-like creatures surging out of the water and the pirate queen said, "GO NOW! We'll handle these bastards! Remember to hurry up, the fog closes tomorrow!"

---

The temperature inside the forest was not a joke, it felt very hot humid, making them to finally take a break for a while due to the unpleasant humidity. Nice cold water could be the best treat at this time for everyone there, but they encountered another surprise as a plant-like creature showed up. As quick as the creature showed up, it was killed by an arrow that launched from an unknown person although Noir could notice a glimpse of movement from across the river which was pretty far from their current spot. Other plant-like creatures showed up again and split on their front and back side, launching attacks to the group. Noir decided to move forward to the front and using her Lightning Whip 20 meters away from the creature, followed by Fulmine Nero to at least kill one of it.

---

Magoi : 160 / 200
Combat Details : Using 2 C-Tier spells to Chryllosapper A.

Ability Used:

Ayero wiped the sweat from her brow as the group journeyed through the strange forest, taking up the front. The heat and humidity were stifling, but that didn’t stop the group from remaining on edge. The sinking, foreboding feeling she felt the other day had only increased since they journeyed further into the island, hence her main focus on survival at this point. She had to admit that the adventure was exciting, but every time the island groaned and stirred she was reminded of the terrible creatures and dead bodies.

Every little movement and sound in the forest caused her to twitch, prepared to strike down any foe they came across as quick as possible. Thus, the Fanalis kept her sword unsheathed and held in one hand, leaving her bow tucked away in the quiver on her back. Suddenly, a plant-like creature burst forth from the forest and attacked Tyrus. Ayero’s eyes went wide and she tightened the grip on her blade, but before she could move closer to attack, an arrow struck the beast and crippled it.

What in the… Ayero’s gaze followed the path that the arrow had taken before she noticed what could have been fleeting movement across the river. None of the other adventurers wielded a bow to her knowledge, none that she had seen. That kind of shot would be impossible to make. But Ayero didn’t have long to ruminate on the logistics as six more Chryllosappers appeared, three blocking the path in front and three behind them.

One of the plant beasts spewed a large Gunk Shot toward the group which Ayero intercepted with Land's Guard. The rock wall shook from the force of the impact and crumbled under the weight of the slime but had successfully intercepted it. Eyes narrowing, the Fanalis quickly sheathed her sword and retrieved her bow. It would be best if they could defeat these creatures without letting them get close. Nocking an arrow onto her bow, Ayero fired a Shatter Shot to land between Chryllosapper B and C. Once that arrow was released, she shot two basic arrows, one aimed for Chryllosapper B and one aimed for C.

Blocked Gunk Shot with Land's Guard. Sent C-Tier ability damage toward B and C. Send one B-Tier basic arrow each at B and C.

[Stamina: 250/290]
[Ammo: 13/15]

Spoiler:

CD:
-Shatter Shot- 3 posts
-Land's Guard- 3 posts

The smell of bacon roused Ariella from her fitful sleep, part of her afraid she had rolled into the fire in her sleep. After assuring herself she had not managed to catch herself on fire, she eagerly devoured the meal provided and then packed up what was needed.

---

The scenery in the forest was incredible and Ari allowed herself a moment to appreciate the deceptively gorgeous surroundings. She knew that beyond that beauty was unknown dangers and ancient, untouched knowledge and it made her push on, following Tyrus to the river and enjoying a quick break to quench her thirst.

Her reprieve was interrupted by the shout of danger and Ariella whipped around, her staff ready as she caught sight of the creatures. The monstrosities were surrounding them and her face tightened. Taking a moment to ascertain where everyone was located, Ari gave a small smile as Noir attacked the creatures to the front and Ayero began her own assault. It made it easier to decide which group to focus on and whirled, using Electric Wall to intercept the projectile liquid of Gunk Shot, the acid fizzling and her spell crackling as they slammed together.

Acting quickly, Ari murmured to the rukh, Thorny Overgrowth the thorny vines intended to rip through one of the creatures. As much as Ari wanted to just blast away anything that moved, she needed to be careful to manage her energy levels, so she drew out two throwing knives, the blades slicing towards another of the crceatures.

[Magoi 290/350]

[Combat Details:
Attacking Chryllosapper D with Thorny Overgrowth, and F with throwing daggers, using Electric Wall to clash with Gunk Shot.]

Abilities Used:

--------------------------------
WC: 420
Magoi: 210/250
Combat: 2 C-Tier @ Chryllosapper E
Cool Downs:

• Adrustrum Aura, Aqua Canno II - 3 Posts
  

Abilities Used:

Splat! Hiss! The ball of acid collided into the earthen wall raised by a stomp of Ayero's foot. The fluid bubbled as it quickly dissolved the wall, leaving behind a crumbled mess. The Chryllosapper(A) saw its attack was ineffective and turned its attention towards the Fanalis woman. The plant-creature fired off an acidic spit wad at Ayero before running towards her. While it closed the distance, Noir had created a lightning whip around her wand that swiped uselessly at the air, because the Chryllosapper was not in range. The black-haired magician's next spell sent two black lightning bolts that struck an arm and a leg of the creature. The Chryllosapper buzzed in dismay by the numbing sensation throughout its limbs, now distracted by Noir. The creature ran at five meters-per-second towards the magician, waiting to get in range before punching her in the face.

During this time, the Chryllosappers(B&C) shifted the earth to burrow down five meters when the earth around them seemed to explode. Fragments of metal pierced through the earth and buried themselves in the creature. A green ooze trickled from the Chryllosapper's wounds and they moved till they were within two meters of where they had last seen the Fanalis woman. Once they within range, they would burst from the earth. The Chryllosapper(B) launched one of its vines at Ayero to give her a Tentaclysm, while its partner(C) released a cloud of fickle spores around it. About this time, Ayero's arrow would pass over where the two plant-creatures had been before.

Meanwhile, the Chryllosapper's(D) gunk shot was destroyed by a wall of electricity created by Ariella's magic. Before it could react, the creature noticed a patch of vines growing beneath it which stabbed through the creature, killing it. Chryllosapper(F) burrowed beneath the ground, moving down five meters and then moving towards Ariella to get within two meters of where it had seen her last. It would burst from the earth, releasing a vine to whip at her in a Tentaclysm. The two throwing daggers that the purple-haired magician had thrown would miss their target.

The last Chryllosapper(E) was heading towards Neo when the magician sent a pillar of water towards it. The creature twisted its body and threw its arm out to parry the spell away from it. Continuing on, the creature was caught by surprise as it felt a sudden drop in temperature. The cold penetrated through its leafy skin and caused it to shudder as frostbite set in. An angry buzz permeated from the creature as it launched an acidic spit-wad at Neo from twelve meters away.

---

OOC: Please post within 48 hours. No post order. Any issues or questions about the post, PM/Skype Azix.

Combat Details:

Ari groaned when she saw one of the creatures she was attacking burrow into the ground. Of course they would burrow, why not? She also noted Neo’s creature was shooting something. Thinking quickly, Ari threw up the arm not holding her staff to make sure Neo did not approach the creatures and formed a new Electric Wall, the ability slamming into the creature that had popped up closest to her and zapping the Tentaclysm aimed for her before continuing on, the acidic spit wad fizzling uselessly before the wall would strike and hopefully keep the creature from moving or at least slow it down. As the wall of electricity travel, Ari wasted no time in using Thorny Overgrowth on the creature nearest to her, making sure the vines did not come in range of either her or Neo. With any luck, the vines would destroy the creature.

Turning to look at Neo, she hoped he fared well with the other creature. She could not afford to turn and check on Ayero and Noir just yet, the threat before her and Neo could not be dismissed until they were destroyed.

[Magoi 260/350]

[Combat Details:
Attacking Chryllosapper E with Thorny Overgrowth, using Electric Wall to clash with Tentaclysm and Acid Spit Wad. Using Electric Wall to paralyze Chryllosapper F.]

Abilities Used:

Noir clicked her tongue as she made a mistake, and when the enemy running to her at 5 m/s to punch her, the black haired girl waited until the creature was 10 meters in front of her an quickly cast Thunder Bullet that move 20m/s to par with the upcoming attack. Wanting to redeem her own fault before, Noir keep the 10 meters between them and launched another Lightning Whip which move at 15m/s. After she launched the attack, she was tempted to see the situation behind her, but decided to focus at the enemy first and hoping she can use her magoi wisely this time. Noir quickly backed off until the gap between them became 20 meters away again.

---

Magoi : 120 / 200
Combat Details : Using 1 B-Tier spell to par with the punch, use 1 C-Tier spells to Chryllosapper A.

Cool Downs :
Lightning Whip ~3 posts
Fulmine Nero ~2 posts
Thunder Bullet ~5 posts

Ability used:

The angry plant beast would charge towards Ayero initially after she had successfully intercepted its attack and launch a wad of acidic spit towards the Fanalis. Rolling quickly to the side, Ayero narrowly avoided the acid spit as it struck a tree behind her, sizzling as it dissolved the wood. Turning her attention back towards the two she had attacked, Ayero grunted in displeasure as the two Chryllosappers disappeared beneath the earth, each avoiding the arrow sent for them. Luckily her first shot managed to capture the two plant beasts within its radius and wound them, though they seemed to be moving just fine after her attack. Taking a step back, Ayero focuses her attention on the ground beneath her and bends her legs slightly, ready to run or jump depending on where the Chryllosappers would reappear.

As the creatures re-emerged two meters away, both would release an attack towards the Fanalis woman. Acting quickly, Ayero produced another slab of rock with Land’s Guard, the earthen wall intercepting the Tentaclysm heading her way. Wary of the cloud of spores that began to form around the other Chryllosapper, Ayero swung her free arm in a windmill motion to Shift the Chryllosapper’s Fickle Spores to the side, away from her and Noir.

Hovering in the air above the attacking Chryllosappers, Tomato watches the battle. She had been instructed to follow along and fly above the group so as to alert them to any danger, but to not stray too far. Seeing that the group had indeed encountered trouble, Tomato launches a Feather Storm at the backs of the two plant beasts as they unleashed their attacks upon her red haired companion. Two feathers each would be sent towards each Chryllosapper.

[Stamina: 190/290]
[Ammo: 13/15]

[Blocked Tentaclysm with Land’s Guard and redirected Fickle Spore away with Shift, sent two D-tier feathers at Chryllosapper B and C each]

CD:
-Shatter Shot- 2 posts
-Land's Guard- 3 posts
-Shift- 3 posts
-Feather Storm- 5 posts

Spoiler:

---------------------------
Magoi: 170/250
Combat: 1 B-Tier @ Chryllosapper F
Cool Downs:

• Adrustrum Aura, Aqua Canno II - 2 Posts
  
• Nemesis Sol - 5 posts

Chryllosapper(A) was nearing Noir when the black-haired magician launched four electric projectiles at the creature. Individually each 'bullet' didn't do much damage, but through repetitive trauma, the damage to the creature's head was fatal. With the creature dead, the magician would have no reason to stumble backwards in a panic, which would end up leading her into an ally's spell.

The Chryllosappers(B&C) emerged from the ground eager to ensnare their prey. Their attacks were ineffective against a prepared Fanalis. Instead of striking Ayero with a vine, the Chryllosapper hit an earthen wall. The spores that were released from the other plant creature were blown away by a gust of air created by Ayero's arm spinning in a whirlpool motion. Distracted, the Chryllosappers failed to notice Tomato fly behind them where she was able to launch four sharpened feathers at their backs. The surprise attack in combination with the shrapnel arrow from before devastated the plant-creatures.

Meanwhile, Ariella's electric wall shielded her from the Chryllosapper's tentaclysm. Beneath its feet formed a thorny overgrowth, which tore through the plant creature, killing it. The last Chryllosapper(F) parried the electric wall and continued moving towards Neo. It launched a Gunk Shot at the same time as the silver-haired magician cast a ball of black light. The ball of light burned the acidic fluid and fizzled out as the two impacted against each other. Before the creature could get another meter closer to Neo, an arrow lodged itself in the creature's head.


A man stood ten meters away from the group, wielding a large wooden bow, decorated with the skull and bones of an animal. Judging by his attire, the man was quite familiar with living off the land. His leather pants and boots were insulated with fur and a bear pelt hung from his shoulders. The man stared at the archaeologists, huddled in between the treasure-hunters on either side, for a moment before his eyes flicked up towards Tyrus who hid behind a tree. "I suppose I have you and your friends to thank for stirring the Island."

His hawkish gaze took in the four who had fought, three magicians and a Fanalis warrior. His eyes lifted to the air and he smiled at Tomato. The warmness in his face vanished as he looked towards Ayero. "How many have died so far?"

---

OOC: Please post within 48 hours. No post order.

After successfully beat the Chryllosapper(A), Noir observed her surrounding and got ready if another enemy come to them while Ayero beat the other Chryllosappers as well. The black haired girl encouraged herself to looked at Neo and Ariella’s condition after she felt that the situation has become a little calmer just to find the same mysterious arrow stuck in the creature’s head. Noir saw a man who wield a large wooden bow with strange attire, but then proceeded to Tyrus who hid behind the tree to assure him that it was alright to come it. “I think you can come out now…” Noir said while holding her hand to Tyrus while the male warriors asked something to Ayero.

---

Magoi : 120 / 200

Cool Downs :
Lightning Whip ~2 posts
Fulmine Nero ~1 posts
Thunder Bullet ~4 posts

Ariella’s eyes followed the paths of her spells, relieved when the one nearest her fell but frowning when her wall was parried. Neo held his own, though, and defended against the next attack. When an arrow came flying out of nowhere, Ari’s eyes widened, having forgotten about the first creature being defeated by an unknown assailant. When the unknown ally finally came into view, she was not sure if she should be relieved or on guard, the man seeming almost hostile.

His words about the island made her think back to the body of the female magician being stolen away by a hand emerging from the sand. So, the island was alive? Confused, she listened as he asked how many had fallen so far and she tried to think. The female magician had been only one of many the island had stolen from the group that had arrived on shore. That didn’t include any that may have been lost while defending the ships. She glanced to Ayero, wondering why the man had chosen her to address. Perhaps the warrior in him called out to the only other apparent warrior in the group.

[Magoi 260/350]

[Cool-downs:
Thorny Overgrowth – 4 posts
Electric Wall – 4 posts]

--------------
Magoi: 170/250
Cool Downs:

• Adrustrum Aura, Aqua Canno II - 1 Post
  
• Nemesis Sol - 4 Posts

The sharp feathers Tomato had launched sunk into their targets, crippling the creatures and leaving them unable to attack. With the Chryllosappers defeated, Ayero took a moment to breathe. Just as she turned to check on the status of the other fighters and archaeologists, another mysterious arrow appeared and struck one of the remaining plant beasts cleanly into its head.

Whipping her head towards the source of the arrow, Ayero’s eyes flared to see a man standing in the open. Her hand instinctively tightened on her blade as she turned fully towards him, eyes locked onto the mysterious man as he spoke to Tyrus.

…Stirring the island? Does he…he must live here. After a few moments of initial shock, Ayero was able to take in his appearance. The pelts he wore, his weapon of choice and his toned body all pointed towards him being a man who lived off of the land. The Cambulac come to mind once more, reminding her of people who made their lives in harsh environments and learned to adapt. But this island was unlike anything she had ever experienced, and finding actual, thriving human life was the last thing she had expected.

She arched a brow as Tomato settled onto a nearby branch and the strange man smiled at the bird before addressing her with a firm face. His question startled her and she took a few moments to answer, recalling the dead she had seen swallowed up by the beach. In the chaos and confusion, she wasn’t sure if she could accurately remember the number of dead.

”Quite a few have lost their lives already.” Though wary, Ayero shifts her body completely towards the man, her blade still held tightly, pointed towards the ground but tilted slightly upwards. Her posture was not hostile, but rather cautious—though he had aided in defeating the beasts, she couldn’t be sure of his motives. ”Do you live here?”


[Stamina: 190/290]
[Ammo: 13/15]

CD:
-Shatter Shot- 1 post
-Land's Guard- 2 posts
-Shift- 2 posts
-Feather Storm- 4 posts

Tyrus looked up to see Noir standing nearby, the black-haired magician smiling as she assured him it was safe now. The archaeologist took her hand, his cheeks turning a rosy shade of pink as he did so. He followed her to the rest of the group and gave his friends a sheepish look. While Tyrus had hid the moment the spells started being flung around, the other archaeologists had stood in between the treasure hunters, mostly confident of their safety.

Meanwhile, the bow-wielding man noticed the shift in Ayero's posture and the firm grip she kept on the hilt of her blade. He slung his bow over his shoulder, with a bored expression on his face. Whether it was a sign that he did not fear her ability or a side-effect of living on the island, facing considerably larger dangers, would remain unanswered. Her response seemed to trouble him a bit. "That would explain the strength of the creatures..."

He arched a brow at Ayero's question and he let out a hollow laugh. "Something like that. We came to the island three...four years ago? It is hard to tell anymore, the days seem to blur. Anyway, about a hundred others and I were hired as a body guard for a rich merchant, seeking even greater wealth. We were told to expect some danger, but we didn't expect the hordes of creatures. No matter where we went, they seemed to know where we were. We lost our ships and quite a few men that first day. Trapped on the island, we lost even more the next couple of days."

He shook his head, "Just when we were about to give up hope, the attacks stopped. If we encroached on some of the beast's territory, they would still attack, but it wasn't the same as before. Thinking we were safe, we built some rafts to escape the island. Our attempts failed though, the rafts either crashed upon the spikes that hide within the fog or the rafts were turned around towards the island."

"We soon learned we weren't safe though. We learned to fear anytime someone managed to navigate the fog and approach the island. Anytime an 'invader' showed up, the island awoke and began its hunt again. That was also when Flea realized that the island was taking the corpses to make the beasts stronger. It doesn't make sense to me and I don't claim to understand how an island could do such a thing, but I know what I've seen. Flying creatures snatching the bodies of the dead or the earth swallowing corpses whole. Not only that, with each fallen comrade, stronger beasts would appear."

His hawkish gaze fell on the group once more, "Now, once again, there are invaders on the island and more of my people have died. There's only three of us left." Pain momentarily flickered through his features. "I lost some of the only friends I've had left because you came here. Is it horrible of me to wish I could slay you all where you stand, even though you were ignorant of the consequences of your actions? Or is it horrible that I don't dare because you death will only make the island stronger?"

Spitting on the ground, the man sighed. "I'm sorry if I was blunt. I suppose proper introductions are in order. My name is Kocoum." He placed a tight fist over his heart as a sign of greeting that was reminiscent of a few tribes in the Great Plains. "Since you indirectly got some of my people killed, perhaps you wouldn't mind doing me and my friends a favor? You're one of the first groups to survive the first night in a long time. Makes me think you have a chance of getting off the island. Come with me to my camp so I can gather the others and let us on board your ships to leave." Kocoum's gaze flicked from face to face, gauging their reaction to his story and favor. His expression was unreadable, except for his desire to escape the island.

---

OOC: Please post within 48 hours. No posting order.

-------------------------
Magoi: 170/250
Cool-Downs:

• Nemesis Sol - 3 Posts
  

Noir could notice Tyrus' cheek turned into rosy colored one, but decided not to ask why and stayed with her emotionless face while continue to approach the rest of the group. The black haired girl stared at the man while listening to his story carefully and wondered why he should blame them for his loss, their death was caused by something from themselves. It was because they were weak and not ready to face the island, but even if Noir thought something like that, she cannot erase the fact that she was the weakest fighter in the group and had to be careful to not got in everyone's way. I need to survive...

Something inside the man's explanation was actually drew her own weird thinking about the island again, she had thought about this before but no evidence to proof her theories. But after the man explained some important things about the island, the island was taking the corpses to make the beasts stronger. Noir believed that the island is really a man-eating island, and maybe... just maybe.... all the creatures were somehow made by the death corpses and were controlled by something, just like that slimy creature on the ship before. Noir shuddered by her own thought and decided to keep it to herself, not wanting to reveal her abstract theories yet. Deep inside she really hoped that her own thought was wrong... and wondered what kind of secrets the island had since clearly the creatures were guarding it.

The black haired girl listened at the man's request and stayed with her emotionless face even when Kocoum observed everyone's expression. She agreed with Neo's opinion about everyone was not going to leave the island empty handed and gave a slight nod signaling her agreement. But instead of answering the man's request, Noir straightly asked the man, "What do you know about the ruins?" She stared directly at the man's eyes, hoping she would get a good answer.

---

Magoi : 120 / 200

Cool Downs :
Lightning Whip ~1 posts
Thunder Bullet ~3 posts

Ayero watched the strange man carefully as he spoke to the group, answering her question and relaying his tale to them in the process. Somehow, a part of her was relieved that people—even if a small number—had been able to survive this island for so long. Perhaps they had a chance, but it would not be a matter of leaving the island—it would be an escape.

A part of her felt for Kocoum’s situation, but her face remained steeled with resolve. As she was contemplating her words, the silver haired magician spoke up, indicating that he did not intend to follow the archer and instead stick to their original goal. She grunted in approval as Noir spoke next, asking if the man knew anything of the ruins they were headed to.

Turning her gaze back to Kocoum, Ayero offered her own introduction with a nod of her head. ”I am Ayero.” Waving a hand towards Neo, she reiterated his words. ”We too have come here as hired mercenaries. As such, we intend to complete our mission and head to the ruins. We’ve no time for side trips.” Her words were firm and decisive, and she glances over at Ari to see if the lightning mage had anything to input.

[Stamina: 190/290]
[Ammo: 13/15]

CD:
-Land's Guard- 1 post
-Shift- 1 post
-Feather Storm- 4 posts

Ari listened to the others talk before she noticed Ayero looking to her for any additional input. The man’s story was haunting her, she could easily see this group becoming like his crew and she had no desire to be stuck here. Looking back to the man, she waved to Ayero.

“I agree with her. We cannot afford a side trip, we have only a short window to get in and out of here. You can try to blame us for the death of your comrades, but we did not know any more than you and your men did about the true dangers here. Perhaps you could meet us here on our way back, but we can’t afford a side trip… I am sorry.”

She hated the idea of leaving this man and his friends here, but they were hired for a purpose and she intended to see it through. Perhaps the ruins would have the answers to why the island was consuming corpses.


[Magoi 260/350]

[Cool-downs:
Thorny Overgrowth – 3 posts
Electric Wall – 3 posts]

Kocoum frowned at the silver-haired man's response, "Such hubris. More concerned with trifle things such as knowledge and power when you are risking the lives of your comrades." He let out a sigh and looked down at the ground with a shake of his head, hoping the others had learned the lessons from his experiences. Kocoum had lived on this island for years and had not found the legend treasure, coming to the conclusion there was none. It was simply a tale the island spread to lure its prey.

When his gaze lifted, he saw a sea of determined faces looking back at him. They were intent on visiting the ruins of the island and he felt his stomach churn. 'They are after the ruins? Is this greed or is this a desire not to let their friend's lives go in vain?' His face became a stone mask as the treasure-hunters expressed their desire to continue on, regardless of the danger. With a snort, Kocoum unslung his bow from around his shoulder and started walking forward, "If you are so intent on going to your deaths, I will show you the quickest way there. Why you want to see the witch of the island is beyond me, but you won't survive the encounter. I'll tag along to destroy your bodies before the island can snatch them, at the very least."

Tyrus spoke up before Kocoum could get too far ahead, "Y-you don't need to show us t-the way, we have a m-map."

Kocoum craned his head around to glare at the archaeologist leader, "Who are you going to trust more? A map or the man who has lived here for years?" He let out a harsh laugh and shook his head. "As stubborn as you lot are, you'd probably trust the map more. Like I told you, I'm going with you guys to prevent the island from getting stronger when you die." He gave the rest of the group a look that said he would have no further argument.

---

They would walk through the forest for some time before Kocoum spoke up again. "I don't know much about the ruins, to be honest. Our group avoided that place as much as possible. The monsters of the island are strongest there, protecting the lady of the island from harm. Flea would have been the one to talk your ear off about it, always running off in the dark of night to explore them. She sent him back one night, poison coursing through his veins, to deliver us a warning never to step foot in them again. We listened to her, not wanting to lose another person."


As he finished speaking, the group emerged from the forest. In the distance, a wall of mountain surrounded a large hill with crumbling ruins at the top. Kocoum pointed up to the ruins, "That is what you are searching for." He looked back to the group as they observed the forgotten temple covered in moss and vines. With a nod, he started leading them around a giant mound of rock to get to the base of the hill. His stance changed, similar to a wolf hunting stalking its prey, as he moved forward, cautious of his surroundings.

A shout lifted into the air and Kocoum came to a halt, gesturing for the rest of the group to mimic him. He slowly began to walk around the bend when he saw two robed men fighting a giant stone golem at the base of the hill. One of the man's arms were shaped in the form of claws which he used to block the golem's attacks. Meanwhile, the other man was firing off shots of goo from a magical tool he held. Their attacks were ineffective as an unseen force pushed their attacks away. The magicians in the group would recognize that force as strength magic, seeing a black wave released from the golem.


"See what I mea-" Kocoum was in mid-sentence when a giant fist slammed downward and crushed the man into a pulp. A golem similar to the one Vincent and Vladmir were fighting emerged from the rock wall to their right and let out a grumble. As the golem lifted its giant fist off of Kocoum, an object tumbled from the man's body to fall at Ayero's feet, ten meters away. If she were to pick up the strange object, she would notice a magical symbol engraved into one side of the barrel.

If that wasn't enough to worry about, Tyrus and his band of archaeologists chose that moment to book it to the ruins. Tyrus looked back to Neo and Noir with excitement in his eyes, "Come with us and watch our backs. Leave the golems to those two while we catch a peek." Not waiting for a response, Tyrus charged on ahead, expecting the pair of magicians to listen. Of course, if they didn't follow, there was a strong chance they would loose valuable insight to what was in the ruins.

Before Tyrus and his group made it to the hill a massive wave of force slammed into Vincent and Vladmir, killing them instantly. The massive creature turned its attention to Ayero and Ariella, who were closest to the other Golem. With massive, quaking footsteps, it slowly made its way towards them, overlooking the group heading towards the ruins. This would allow Tyrus, Neo, Noir, and the other archaeologists the chance necessary to climb the hill and enter the ruins.

If Neo and Noir were to take a second to search the bodies of the fallen Alchemists, they would each find a curious possession that stood out to them. Upon Vladmir's body, Neo would find the man's wand which he no longer needed. Vincent wore a chain around his neck that held a silver key, elegantly crafted with a sapphire in the center. A magical circle was engraved into the gem. They would only have a few moments to search their bodies and retrieve the objects before the ground shook violently and an earth fist appeared to snatch up the Alchemist's bodies. All that was left was to follow Tyrus and the others inside.

Meanwhile, the golem(A) closest to Ariella and Ayero stood ten meters away. The creature stood fifteen meters tall and slammed its giant fist downward to catch Fanalis and magician both. Golem(B) was still traveling slowly, close to thirty meters away, to help its ally. With the two giant threats, Ayero and Ariella would hardly notice the earth swallow up Kocoum's body.

---

OOC: Please post within 48 hours. No posting order.

Combat Details:

Noir:

Ayero:

Neo:

Ayero raised a brow at Kocoum’s response to the silver haired magician. While she herself didn’t care for what could be found in the ruins of the island, she and the other treasure seekers had been entrusted with a job and doubted that they didn’t know of the inherent risk of venturing further into the island. Somewhat unexpectedly, the wary archer insisted on escorting the group to the ruins using the quickest route. Suspicion bubbled within her until the reasoning behind Kocoum’s help became apparent.

Of course…but shooting our bodies full of arrows probably won’t stop the island from taking us. Unless…explosives? Does he have something that can create fire? Ayero’s mind began to slip from the task at hand as she vaguely recalled seeing Diego fire some sort of exploding arrows during the war. The Fanalis was quickly pulled back to reality as the group started moving once more.

---

As they ventured towards their target, Ayero kept one ear open to their surroundings while listening to Kocoum relay his tale. The more he spoke of the island as if it were alive, the stranger things got. She almost didn’t want to know more about what horrible things could happen, but the information could prove to be useful later. Lady of the island? So someone lives at the…poison? Ayero’s brows furrowed together, having been poised before by numerous beasts including her own. She had experienced enough of the deleterious effects to know that it could seriously dampen their chances of survival.

At last the ruins appeared within sight and Ayero scanned the large structures briefly before she noticed Kocoum’s change in posture. Noting the caution in his body, Ayero tightened the grip on her blade and crept closer, following behind the archer as a scream pierced the ear. When they rounded a corner she was surprised to see two other people, clad in dark robes attacking a strange stone monster. Ayero hadn’t taken note of either of them on the ship beforehand, and her mind was working a mile a minute in an attempt to process all that was going on around them.

Amidst the chaos, Kocoum’s voice just began to register in her head as a giant stony fist descended unto the man. Startled by the sound, Ayero jumped and whirled around as the object clattered to her feet. Curious, the Fanalis woman quickly picked up the strange item, confused by its shape and curious about its purpose.

She wouldn’t have long to examine the object however, as Tyrus and the other archaeologists made a beeline for the ruins. Ayero could feel her brow twitch in annoyance as she’d rather the archaeologists stay safe and out of danger before charging into the unknown. They wouldn’t be safe regardless, and with this thought she stuffs the strange object hurriedly between her chest and turns toward the opponent. Glancing at Ariella to take note of her position, Ayero raises her arm to perform a Simple Block against the Golem’s Slam. ”I’ll take this big guy, you got the other one?” The Fanalis woman grunted towards her magician friend, not daring to sneak another glance her way against such a massive opponent. Moving quickly, Ayero perform a Swift Roll to move behind the Golem before delivering a punch to the creature’s hard body.

[ [Stamina: 150/290]
[Ammo: 13/15]

CD:
-Feather Storm- 3 posts
-Simple Block- 3 posts
-Swift Roll- 3 posts

Spoiler:

----------------------------
Magoi: 170/250
Cool-Downs:

• Nemesis Sol - 2 Posts
  

Malevolent Shadow was picked up.

Noir face stiffened as she heard Kocoum’s words, those words sounded like a man’s voice who had given up on anything and not willing to fight back But even though it was on her mind, she didn't utter any words. She couldn't think like that, or even criticize, since she was unsure about her own reaction if she was thrown into the same situation as Kokoum and his men. But the one thing that made her curiosity rose was when he mentioned about the witch of the island, maybe that witch was the one who responsible for the island? If it was true then the witch was a hell of playful witch to be able to control so many killer creatures and had ability to lure many people to find the island's thorny secrets.

As Kokoum guided them to the ruins, these thoughts played through her mind while her eyes gazed upon the mysterious beauty emanating from the ancient, fallen architectures. Finally… admiration filled her heart as her curiosity rose up in her mind. But her excitement ended sooner when the man quickly gestured the group to stalk the situation if front of them after they heard a shout, Noir realized the two cloaked men that were trying to get closer to her mentor was fighting a strange creature that looked familiar. Is that… a golem…?

She could saw that Vladimir and Vincent were trying their best to beat the golem, and just when Kocoum tried to warn them, a quick move came from behind him and crushed him to death in front of Noir’s eyes before he could even finish his words. The black haired girl took several quick steps behind to avoid any further attack but halted her steps as Tyrus started to made her and Neo to follow him, before Noir could even answered her will, the archeologist ran to the ruins with excitement. “Wait…!” The girl chased them a little bit but her mentor suddenly called her and she stopped her action to chase the archeologist. When she looked back, she could saw him searching something at a strange things, the girl approached her mentor quickly and found the two cloaked men crushed body there. As Neo asked her to search something at Vincent’s body and immediately searching for any clues as Noir was also curious about what secret the man held, she found a strange looking key hanging at Vincent’s neck that designed elegantly and noticed something strange at the gemstone. Quickly bringing herself to her sense, Noir stood, taking the magic tool and hanging it around her neck, and glanced back at Ariella and Ayero. She wanted to help them as two giants were ready to attack the pair, but she couldn't allow the archeologists to be unguarded.

“Come on, Noir.” The icy voice from her mentor called her again as he commanded her to follow. The black haired girl had to decide fast, either leaving Ayero and Ariella to fight the golem by themselves or letting the archeologist entered the ruins without any protection. She knew both of them was very strong, but seeing Vladimir and Vincent being crushed like that made the girl was not sure about anything anymore. Noir clicked her tongue as she quickly followed Neo into the ruins, praying for both the fanalis and female magician to be safe.

---

Magoi : 120 / 200

Cool Downs :
Thunder Bullet ~2 posts

Picked up Crystal Key

Kocoum was not the friendliest man, but at least he offered to lead them on a shorter path to their destination and did not attempt to slow them down or attack them. When he mentioned the Lady of the Island, Ari’s interest piqued. So not only did more people live here, someone was controlling the island. It was a bit of a relief, really, as the idea of a sentient piece of land terrified her. It made much more sense that powerful magicians were behind the seemingly alive island.

When they finally came to gaze upon the Ruins, she paused to take in the decrepit but gorgeous view. It was apparent the place had been quite the monument at some point. For it to be in this state, it must have stood long before the current countries ruled the lands. Suddenly, sounds of fighting could be heard and she arched a brow to see the two odd men that had loaded in Magnostadt with them fighting. She turned to look as Kocoum spoke only to see the man pulverized. She gasped but did not have time to truly react before she and Ayero were put into the line of fire.

Everything else faded out as she focused on the immediate threat, glad when Tyrus insisted on Neo and Noir following him. Hopefully, they would be safer there. When Ayero mentioned a plan of attack, Ari gave a nod of agreement before moving about 5 meters to the side of Ayero, giving the warrior room to work as she looked at the further creature. As she gauged the movement of the creature, she raised her staff and murmured to the rukh, a Slime that was five meters large directly in front of the creature to slam into it. Not wanting to risk the spell being flattened like their host, Ari immediately followed that by murmuring and casting Lightning Strike, the bolt of lightning striking out to land just behind the creature, Ari hoping that the powerful strike would hit in case the Slime missed.



[Magoi 200/350]
[Attacking Golem B with Lightning Strike from behind and a Slime from the front.]
[Cool-downs:
Thorny Overgrowth – 3 posts
Electric Wall – 3 posts
Slime  - 7 posts
Lightning Strike – 7 posts]

Abilities Used: