In this world, Magic is Everything. All people, all races, are granted with the power to perform mystical and magical feats via grimories, mystical tomes granted to each and every child on their 15th birthday. Those blessed by the mana can have their names written down in legend.
Shattered Grimoires is the work of the mind(s) of Ardere & Shattered Grimoire's staff. All characters and content are copyright their creators, and may not be replicated without their creators' permission. Black Clover is owned by Yuki Tabata and published by Viz Shonen Jump. All images belong to their original owners. The theme you are currently viewing was made by Eliza of ElizaCodes exclusively for Shattered Grimoires.
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Room 1 Floor 1
The Magic Knight Exams were being held once again, and it was kicking off in an interesting way. The Trial of Attrition, a dungeon born from the aftermath of the Shattering. It was formed to serve the purpose of testing future Magic Knights, and among those participants were Hans, Vaile, and Verena who have all decided to team up to handle their turn at the dungeon. The trio has already entered through the portal, and the first thing they most likely would've seen is a hellish landscape, completely differing from the Exams grounds.
This was an unlikely team-up...but still fitting. Hans considers Verena to be a good friend at this point so it made sense that the two decided to team up, along with them also being in the same Royal Knight squad. Vaile on the other hand was someone Hans only met and interacted with during the dark times where the town of Kikka was taken hostage by daemons...the very same town where the Exams are currently being and always have been held. Hans was not and still isn't sure what to make of this man shrouded in mystery. His actions back during the daemon invasion was...questionable, but he was clearly suffering from some sort of mental breakdown. Even though Hans never had any just as extreme, he used to suffer from some breakdowns as well because of his past, so he couldn't fault the shadow mage. As he thought a bit about this, the sword-wielding Royal Knight wondered silently if Vaile has ever found that woman he was looking for...
Royal Knight...This was probably a first in Clover's history, having some Royal Knights be among those participating in these Exams. Usually, it is only Magic Knights who have the potential to be brought into the Royal Knights, but with the sort of threat these Archdaemons present, it made sense why the Kingdom decided to open this up to capable citizens.
"So...These are the exams, huh?" Hans asked before looking around this area. A dungeon was the last thing he was expecting from this, especially with how the Royal Knight Exams were held. If anything, he felt that this would've made more sense for the Royal Knights, but he didn't think about this for long. He then glanced over at his partners to see how they were doing. Honestly, Hans was a bit surprised when he found out that Verena was entering the Exams, not just this but the Royal one prior. Now knowing about that curse, Hans couldn't help but be a little concerned over her even if that potion Lydia gave her was still in effect. But, it was not Hans' place to tell the summoner to reconsider or anything like that. She knows her limits and the risk much better than the dark mage does. Part of Hans respected this, however. The woman was going against her limitations which is something not a lot of people do. It was as if she was trying to defy fate, show the Kingdom just how capable she truly is.
From the brief time Hans has interacted with Vaile, he did not exactly come off as someone the dark mage would see here, but the same could be said about himself. Hans wasn't going to ask any questions though. Whatever Vaile's reasons are, they are his alone, but the dark mage is looking forward to seeing more of the man's shadow magic again.
As Hans walked a bit, he stopped...feeling a chill crawl up his spine. The man shivered lightly, but it was brief yet still concerning. The dark mage was now inspecting the area with his ki and so far, he could only sense the summoner and shadow mage. No one else was here...but why did that feel like a lie?
The dark mage took notice of the walls next....filled with nothing but various forms of death....but none of the skeletons appeared to be in distress. They were all smiling...grinning to be more accurate. This only made the figures look even eerier. The fact that this room is empty save for the trio and not swarming with monsters was eerie as well. "I don't sense anything...but we should stay aler-" The dark mage paused as he saw a figure in the distance. It appeared to be close enough to still be in the range of the man's ki senses...but Hans still didn't feel a thing.
Instinctively, Hans' hand was now hovering over the hilt of his sheathed sword, but he stopped from gripping it as he noticed something about the figure. It had a long, familiar shade of blue hair along with an equally familiar attire....
"Uh...Su-" Hans was about to take a step forward, but paused. Why would she be here? That didn't make any sense.
"Hans...?"
Just like that, all of Hans' doubts and suspicions were thrown out the window. That voice...could it really be her...his beloved?
"S-Suna?" Hans lowered his hand away from his sword and started to make his way over to the figure...and away from his teammates....
[break] "So...These are the exams, huh?" [break][break] So he was here. [break][break] Deep breath in, deep breath out. Vaile still couldn’t name his reasons for making such a decision. But, in truth, it felt as if he was only here to be scrutinized and mocked. He felt like a test subject about to undergo some arduous trial for the sake of a mad scientist’s sadistic research. [break][break] He was a thing to be watched, poked, and prodded to see what made it tick, to see how far it could bend until it broke, to be judged by someone else's standards. He hated it still. So then why was he there? [break][break] Because objectively, probably, it was a good thing to do. Because Knights were the protectors of this Kingdom--even if they failed it. Because his sister had been a Knight once--even if she died because of their failure. Because his father had been a Knight--even if the Order gave him nothing in return. [break][break] Perhaps he wanted that change of pace, searching for that excuse to try it out. Perhaps he was there to make up for some mistake that he couldn’t name because he’d made too many. He felt nothing. He felt pained. He felt as if his own skin barely fit his body. He hadn’t eaten that day, convincing himself he wasn’t hungry. He hadn’t slept last night. Nightmares had plagued his vision whenever he closed his eyes. He put a gloved hand to his forehead, bringing down the rim of his hat, so it covered his tired eyes. [break][break] Tension was building up on the side of his skull. Wonderful, Vaile grimaced. On top of everything else, the early signs of migraine were beginning to show. [break][break] “Indeed.” Vaile gave a single word as a response, not looking to Hans as the other mage was taken in by the view of what they were about to enter. A dungeon. Because that was apparently the best way to test young mages who wished to impress upon the great ranks of the Magic Knights. [break][break] Vaile only glanced at Verena, his wordless greeting likely saying enough between them. She knew something of his reasons, though the bitter truth was he still couldn’t decide for himself. Did he seem like a hypocrite to her? It hadn’t been his intent. Was that a mistake too? He could’ve added that to the list. [break][break] He didn’t want to start that conversation at the moment. [break][break] And so, they entered. [break][break] Naturally, in the dark of their first room, Vaile reached out with his sensory skill. And naturally, he felt nothing that could really be of any note. It was like searching through a blank room. The skeletal and dark macabre interior didn’t exactly bother him. Certainly, it was meant to strike fear in the hearts of whoever saw them. [break][break] Death was supposed to be a scary thing. Death was an instinctive, primal fear. Vaile could admit to being afraid of death as well. [break][break] He stared ahead at a skeleton with decaying garbs at a chest. Vaile felt the mana here, and it was dark and oppressive. It reminded him of his own. Shadow-mana, not surprising in a place meant to inspire fear. The dark. Another fear that so common among people. [break][break] It was then that Hans alerted the group to something, Vaile couldn’t see anything but a shadow, but the immediate recognition in Hans's face reveal to Vaile of a different threat. [break][break] Illusions. But mirages of magic that neither he nor Hans could truly define. [break][break] Vaile immediately took a protective stance around Verena, his grimoire floating beside him with a shadow aura, all too like the room they entered. “Gladiolas.” [break][break] “Verena!” Vaile called out to them, to the girl, figuring now that Hans was already a lost cause. “Nothing you see or hear is real.” He said, gripping hard onto the handle of his greatsword. [break][break] “It’s a manipulation of fear, it’s not--” [break][break] But Vaile paused, crimson eyes catching something in the dark. [break][break] White hair falling on bare shoulders. A light sundress, fabric catching in a nonexistent wind. Ivory skin. Sapphire eyes. [break][break] His sister smiled at him. [break][break] And just like every time before, his heart fell when he saw her. He was gutted, vulnerable. His chest shook with every breath. His stance faltered as he lowered his weapon. Of course, he knew, but it didn’t matter. [break][break] Seeing her still hurt. It always would. [break][break] “It’s not real.”
COMBAT SUMMARY
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
POW175 (+9)
DUR 000
STA 100
SEN 58
CON 120
SPEED 15 m/s
STRENGTH 1/2 junior
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
MANA SKIN archmage
HEALTH grand
MANA POOL 240/240
MANA REGEN 60 ic | 55 ooc
[attr="class","withoutyouscroll2"] Dungeon WC:
Floor 1, Room 1: 1,584/4,500
Floor 1, Room 2: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 1: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 2: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 3: /4,500
Floor 3, Room 1: /4,500
[break] TL;DR Vaile goes into the dungeon, has an angst episode. [break] [break] Spells: [break] Umbra Gladiolas
This perk allows a person's spells to naturally move 5 m/s faster than normal, this increases to 10 m/s at grand rank.
[break]Description: Using his shadow element, Vaile creates a giant-sized longsword, a double-edged straight sword. The blade length is 2 m, 75 cm wide, with a large two handed grip. The giant blade is able to cause major [Senior] Rank damage, which is lethal at a direct hit, can shatter and break bones, slice major/severe cuts, and destroy most non-magical structures. Vaile controls the blade remotely within a range area or he can shoot it off to slice or fire at an enemy from a distance. Vaile is able to create an additional sword per ammo rules.
[break] Rank & Element: Grand [break] Class & Type: Mundane Armor [break] Magic Specializations: N/A [break] Appearance & Lore: A lightweight armor that allows for maneuverability, yet still offers high levels of protection. Though at a glance it may seem to be made from leather, it is made from a much more durable material that comes with the same level of motion as such. The armor comes with a hood that can be worn, as well as two wristguards to cover the forearms and hands that match the color of the armor. [break] [break] The armor contains four straps that are used to fasten it to keep it on, with ornate buttons used to secure them on the user. The forearms, chest, and thigh paddings are reinforced to allow for more security.
Post by Verena Reinsberg on Jun 26, 2021 22:10:41 GMT -5
[nospaces]
[attr="class","verenaver2image"] [break]
POW
DUR
SEN
STA
CON
077
137
014
065
075
[break]
MANA SKIN archmage+grand
HEALTH grand
MANA REGEN 55 IC // 75 OOC
MANA POOL 285/285
[break]
[attr="class","verenaver2scroll"]
[ floor 1, room 1 ]
The Magic Knight exams had begun. Verena had passed the Royal Knight exams, having been accepted by Lydia Ravencrest into her squad. To that end, there was a great deal of pressure, she felt, to excel within these exams. An absolute flawless display was necessary to show her gratitude towards Lydia for not only permitting her to take these exams, but for that potion that had allowed her to move around a bit easier.[break][break]
Verena's movement speed had reached up to what would be considered average, and her physical strength was still a work-in-progress as far as training was concerned. It wasn't much. But it was still something. Her cardio and body could keep up with any physical reinforcement given to her, and her physical strength could be enhanced without causing any damage to her body as well.[break][break]
It had taken almost seven years at this point, but for the first time since she had received her grimoire, the brunette felt as though she was truly becoming a proper mage. The joy that she felt as a result could not be understated; for the first time in a while, she felt truly happy. The barriers that had prevented her from doing much were beginning to tear down around her. One step at a time.[break][break]
Of course, the heiress knew that she hadn't been cursed. Her curse was still very much with her. But it was effectively "frozen". The potion Lydia had given her was an exceptionally cunning piece of work. The brunette wondered if it was worked in parts. The first was attacking the curse by freezing it. Once it had been properly "locked", the actual healing took place. It was hard to say for sure, but it didn't matter.[break][break]
It worked. That was all Verena could ask for. Even if it was for just a few months, the woman could live a normal life, even if as a Royal Knight or a Magic Knight. She was obtaining the freedom that she sought bit by bit. And to that end, Verena had no intention of making Lydia look bad. She wasn't just here representing herself or her family. There was little chance that that potion was something that could so easily be made without some incredibly rare and expensive materials.[break][break]
Verena realized that she was something of an investment at this point. That Lydia had taken a chance on her utility and skill without knowing for sure just how useful it would be if she could be unhindered by the metaphorical chains that bound her. In a way, her freedom still came with some chains. But they were chains that Verena would make free herself from by paying back Lydia and the Ravencrest family at large by ensuring their success against Asmodeus.[break][break]
That brought her to the Trial of Attrition, the name bestowed upon the dungeon examination for would-be Magic Knights. Apparently, she wasn't the only Royal Knight here, as Hans was here. However, more surprisingly was Vaile Blake's presence at the entrance to this dungeon. The man who cursed Magic Knights and what they did to his sister. Here he was trying to move on, as best as he could.[break][break]
When she had found out that he was a participant in the exams, Verena had approached the Blake, encouraging him to come with Hans and herself on the dungeon. She very much doubted that he would have been comfortable going with anyone else, and though she was aware of the possible stigma surrounding the man -- especially when Hans was going to be with her -- she felt that it would be better that he was with company so he didn't feel so lonely. He was more likely to try to do it all on his own otherwise.[break][break]
The landscape around the three prior to their dive into the portal was arguably ruined by the intense mana that radiated in the atmosphere. It was almost suffocating. If they weren't as strong as they were, it likely would have been enough to drop them then and there, as it was almost akin to a poison trying to ward off whoever showed up. It was probably in direct response to their strength as she had heard that this dungeon was directly correlated with the strength of the participants.[break][break]
And yet, there was no turning back now. Into the portal the trio went, only to find themselves in very ... dangerous territory if the artistic depictions across the wall were of any hint of what to expect. Displays of gruesome cruelty and death flooded the walls, as well as more peaceful ends. The undead around these carvings seemed to be smiling in some manner. It was obvious that this was a dark place indeed.[break][break]
The room itself didn't seem to be much more inviting than the carvings. It was as though this room was the aftermath depicted in the carvings. It brought with it a great sense of unease, causing Verena to look down at her hands. Her left index finger still had the ring that Hania had given her; she had naturally moved it, but its healing potential couldn't be understated. Furthermore, the mark on the back of her right hand was present, though it was hidden by her coat.[break][break]
The Reinsberg had made sure that she wouldn't be caught off guard this time; not like that time in the Four Seasons dungeon. She had made sure to keep her hair out of her eyes by braiding it into the ponytail that she was most commonly seen with as of late. She was quite confident that she could handle whatever this dungeon was going to throw at her this time.[break][break]
...at least, that was what she thought. Until that chill went down her back, tracing down it as a reminder. A reminder that she was not truly safe. That she was not saved. "Are you dense?"[break][break]
That familiar voice. Elegant. Yet acidic. Poisonous. If one could put a sound to what one would believe as "cursed", then surely this man's voice would be what people would think of.[break][break]
"What makes you think you can be here?"[break][break]
Verena wasn't afraid of this man. Not anymore. She wasn't, she wasn't, she wasn't![break][break]
"Verena! Nothing you hear or see is real!"[break][break]
Vaile's voice broke through amidst her beginning panic. Like a blessing, he managed to get through to her before her own trauma began to resurface. her own fear of her father, the man who had taken almost everything from her before she could even truly start her journey as a mage. Verena closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. That was right. It was an illusion. It was fake.[break][break]
Renfir was, fittingly, rotting in Balgon. There was no way he could be here. Verena's heart rate slowed down a bit to a healthier level. She saw Hans trying to leave the area, however. "Hans!" Verena called out.
"Carbon Magic: Survival Instinct!" she declared, creating a wall of carbon right in front of the distracted male, attempting to block his entry.[break][break]
"Hans, it's not real. It's an illusion. Whatever you're seeing isn't here right now," she called out to the dark mage, before looking over to Vaile and seeing his expression.[break][break]
"...Thank you, Vaile," she said.[break][break]
That look in those eyes of his. The hurt. It wasn't hard to imagine what he had just seen. "...I don't know if this is going to be what you need. But I'm certain that at least trying something new will be at least helpful," Verena said, before turning her attention to Hans.[break][break]
Hopefully, her words had managed to reach him. It was hard to say what was and what wasn't real with the illusion in truth. But they couldn't afford to be separated.[break][break]
The illusion hadn't faded though. She might have not been able to see her father, but she could hear him still. But knowing that it was a fabrication made it much easier to deal with comparatively. Verena needed to think. She couldn't see her father, but the presence of things manifesting here was still strong. She just wasn't sure what was going on.[break][break]
First, before they could advance, the group needed to find the source of these illusions and destroy the source. Otherwise, even if it wasn't real, it would most assuredly take a toll on morale. So then, what was the best possible course of action they could take...?[break][break]
"We should stay together and investigate the room. It's too dangerous to dangerous for us to split up. These illusions in this room are all quite effective against us for one reason or another. If we're with one another, we're less likely to worry about hurting those in our group," Verena encouraged as she pushed up her glasses.
Elemental Type: Carbon Matter[break]Rank & Spell Type: Senior, Defense Creation & Restraining[break]Range & Speed: 80 m, 40 m/s[break]Mana Cost: 30 (cast) 15 (sustain)[break]Stats Effected: +6 DUR, -20 Mana Regen[break]Applicable Perks: Hazardous Shields, Juggernaut, Mana Prison, Sapping Bonds[break]Description: Upon usage, Verena creates a wall that is 2x4x5 (length x width x height) made of pure carbon and as such is akin to a jet black in color. The wall appears as though it's constantly moving around, and this is in part due to [Juggernaut], as it is capable of, with limited usages, of strengthening itself in what would otherwise tear right through, or damage it to render that damage obsolete. If someone tries to attack the wall, the carbon will react and will spike out, damaging whoever is attacking it equal to [Intermediate] damage thanks to [Hazardous Shield]. In addition, the wall is capable of shooting out a solid "chain" of carbon though, plus one additional chain for every 50 [CON] she has. These chains function in accordance to clashing rules, and cause strain on a person's ability to regenerate their mana, depleting it by 20 (though if their mana regenerative ability is lower, then it will be reduced to 1). If they catch a person, their ability to cast spells is reduced by fifty percent of what would be their normal casting limit. In addition, if they manage to bind someone, their mana will be sapped by ten, giving Verena half of what is drained.
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
"W-why are you here?" Hans spoke out to the blue-haired figure as he continued to approach it. It did not utter another word, and just continued to stand there with its back towards the dark mage. This didn't make any sense and was clearly a trap, a part of Hans knew this in the back of his head...but why was he still approaching this figure? He couldn't help himself, and just threw his logic out the window. Hans' own mana reacted to this, however, taking the form of a faint dark aura surrounding him. His magic was trying to warn him, but the dark mage continued to walk, one step after the other. He was about to reach a hand out in that direction..."Su-" But a wall of carbon suddenly manifested in front of the man. "What...?" He quickly lowered his hand and instinctively leaped back, about to unsheathe his sword until he heard Verena's voice.
"An...illusion?" Hans repeated in a tone almost similar to someone who had just woken from their slumber. He looked over at the summoner then to Vaile who appeared to be experiencing something as well, the woman trying to comfort him in the process. "Right..." Hans turned his attention back to the wall before slowly brushing his hand through his dark hair. "An illusion..." he muttered. Hans should've known better at this point, especially with the illusions he has experienced in Kikka. He had nearly fallen victim to this again which didn't sit well with the dark mage. The dungeon, or at least this room appears to be pulling stuff from its victim's memories or something of the sort.
It was a smart idea for the trio to stick together as Verena suggested. Hans nodded before heading back towards the other two. "Yeah." he then started to look around. "We need to find the source." Hans claimed, but he assumed that the other two already knew this. Hans wasn't exactly sure what the source would be, but something did catch his attention in the room. His attention went to a skeleton in a moth-eaten garb that appears to be resting at the end of this chamber-like area, but what really struck the dark mage's attention was the large chest that rested before the skeleton...open. "You both can see that too, right?" Hans asked, wanting to make sure this wasn't another illusion. The ki it gave off didn't really stand out, but there was still something that felt off about it.
It was clear that Hans wanted to check this out, but before gesturing towards it, the man turned his attention back to the other two. "Need a moment?" He asked them both, but was mostly aimed for Vaile. Hans honestly needed a minute, but he felt that he could push past it. If the two needed a moment to rest, Hans would stick around until they were ready, but if not, he would gesture for them to follow him to that chest.
If the other two were with him, Hans would traverse down the long, eerily quiet area. So far at least on Hans' part, no more illusions showed up, not even a voice...but he could still feel the sound mage's presence like before...and it started to grow stronger the closer he approached that chest, further confirming that this was the source. Hans placed a hand on the hilt of his sheathed blade, preparing for anything. The moment they got close enough to the chest, the ordinary ki Hans was feeling started to distort, and suddenly, six shadows shot out of the chest! Each of them landed in separate directions close by and started to take various shapes. Two of those shapes were familiar to Hans...but one of them stood out more to him than the other.
"Boy."
The voice was booming, riddled with intimidation and authority. "...You." Hans had a strong hint of disdain in his tone at the sight and voice of this figure.
Standing before him was Hans' father, Benedict "Wolfgang" Isenburg II, or at least a figure that looked exactly like him. No...that's exactly what it was. This was just another illusion, nothing but a trick of the mind. "Tch..." Hans turned his attention to the chest and aimed to destroy it, but something constricted around the wrist of his sword-wielding hand. He looked down to see a pitch-black whip, covered in frost holding his hand back. The chilling temperature that the whip gave was enough to make Hans see his own breath. "You dare ignore your father, boy?" The shadowy copy then used the whip to hurl Hans away from the chest, throwing the dark mage to the ground back first.
These were no mere illusions, not anymore...
Gritting his teeth, Hans stood back up, grabbing his sword in the process. Before he could do anything to his "father", Hans heard someone crying behind him.."H-Hans...Why...?"..and turned to see that it was "Suna", with her hands covering her face. "S-" Hans nearly reached his hand out for her again, but paused. She wasn't real, just like his "father". The dark mage was about to lower his hand, but then the false sound mage took a hold of the man's wrist, its grip strong...and scornful. "Why are you leaving me...Hans?" Hans' eyes widened as the once blue and beautiful hair started to turn gray and dull. Her clothing and skin were adopting a similar color with reddish outlines replacing the once blue ones. Her face grew more sinister, aided by her now blood-red eyes and dark outlines surrounding them.
"That's all you're good at isn't it? Running away..." That sweet gentle tone Hans had grown to love was now toxic, smug...unforgiving.
The figure pretending to be Suna pushed Hans back, but the dark mage managed to keep on his feet despite almost stumbling. "Kikka, Royal Knights, Archdaemons...Why do you keep throwing yourself into danger? Do you not want to live a peaceful life with me....?" Hans lowered his sword a bit. "N-no, I..." She took a step closer, causing Hans to take a step back. "You would rather die in battle than spend your life with me..." "Suna I....N-no, this isn't real..." Hans muttered. "Suna" then gave Hans a mock frown. "Oh? Are you saying that what we share isn't real?" The dark mage simply gritted his teeth, getting tired of these mind games.
"I suppose this was for nothing?" "Suna" rose her hand up, revealing the ring Hans proposed to her with around her ring finger. It was still blue and hadn't changed colors as "Suna" has. She slowly lifted it off of her finger and held it in her palm. "What are you doi-" WIth a wicked grin, "Suna" dropped the ring onto the ground and crushed it under her foot, making sure to dig it in. Hans was at a loss for words. He dropped to one knee, looking down in horror at the crushed ring. Fueled with anger, Hans glared up at the fake and immediately lunged up at her with his sword! The tip of his blade was mere inches from "Suna's" neck...but the dark mage stopped. Before he could continue, the fake reverted back to the real Suna's colors, and had a genuine look of fear on her face. "Wh-Why are you doing this?" She appeared completely terrified, her tone shaken.
"N-no, I didn't mean t-" "Get away from me, you monster..." Hans dropped his sword and tried to approach Suna. "N-no, Suna, please...I would neve-" As Hans tried getting closer, letting his defenses down, the fake Suna smirked before returning back to those lifeless colors. She hummed a tune that sounded disjointed, lacking in harmony which summoned a harp wthat was silver in color with blood-red strings. Her fingers danced on the strings, creating a restrain spell that trapped Hans' arms and feet, locking him in place. "You really are a monster, Hans." "Suna" claimed, her voice dripping with venom again, as the man attempted to struggle out of these restraints.
"Just like his old man..." "Benedict" walked up to the false sound mage with an equally evil look on his face. "I'm nothing like you..." Hans growled a bit in frustration as he stared daggers at the old man. "Keep telling youself that, boy. You know deep down, I'm right...You can't fight this."
"Suna" then summoned a sword made out of her red aura into her free hand and used it to slice Hans' shirt open. "Monsters need to be punished..." She claimed. With that, "Benedict" cracked his whip which was enough to give the dark mage flashbacks to his childhood. "No..." Hans' tone was now low...and weak. This isn't real...it can't be real. "You are your father's child..."
But it was....
"Benedict" was now giving Hans lashings, each one reminding the dark mage of his childhood in Diamond. The memories poured in with each lash, and all Hans could do was grit his teeth and bear with it. Tears were slowly running down his face, but not from the pain...but from the memories. Hans felt powerless....but he tried to grasp on something in his memories...something much more peaceful.
It took time...but he was able to find what he needed....The sweet memories of his mother. He took in all of the peaceful times he has had with her and from it was slowly able to draw in the strength he needed. "No..." Hans said again, but this time his voice was low and rebellious. A dark aura slowly formed around Hans, causing "Benedict" to stop. "I am not my father's child....I am my mother's..." With that, Hans was able to cast his Draconic Drive spell, concealing him in a suit of draconic-like armor made of darkness. With fists clenched, Hans broke free from his shackles, and lunged at the fear manifestation of his father! "You dare defy your fath-" Before the fear could finish, Hans grabbed the being by its throat and crushed it with his enhanced strength. The figure let out a howl in pain before forming back into a shadow and faded away.
Hans then lowered his hand and crouched down to retrieve his dropped sword. He looked at it before hearing a voice.
"Hans...." The dark mage turned to see the fear manifestation of his beloved, back in blue.
"Don't do this...I love you..."
"I know..." Hans walked over to the figure and remained quiet. She attempted to embrace the dark mage, but as she tried to, Hans quickly looked away, and as he did, he impaled the fake in the chest....
"I love you too."
As the figure howled in pain as well before fading away as a shadow, Hans dropped to his knees and threw his sword to the side, and started to breathe heavily, his body visibly shaking, on the verge of a breakdown.
Through the use of their grimoire, the user forms a suit of draconic armor made of darkness around themselves and/or others for defensive purposes, but that is not its only use. The armor also gives off a dark aura that increases the wearer's strength to Grand levels, allowing them to deal devastating Grand based damage to their foes and structures. When more than one armor is summoned, its Strength buff will decrease by one rank. (User can summon an additional piece of armor per 75 Control they have.)
"...I don't know if this is going to be what you need.” [break][break] Verena’s words could pull him from staring at his specter. She was trying to say something helpful. He understood that. She was only saying so because she thought they were friends. She’d posed the idea of coming together because she knew that he would have disliked working with strangers. [break][break] But while he knew all of those things regarding the girl’s continued stubbornness for acts of kindness, Vaile didn’t let his gaze meet hers. [break][break] “Please, don’t say things like that.” He heard himself say rather quietly. And he hoped that he said such a line with enough intent to show that he didn’t want the subject broached any further. [break][break] Eventually, he nodded at her suggestion to stay together because it made sense. And it seemed that Hans also would have agreed. However, the dark mage seemed unsettled about the things he had seen in the shadows, and Vaile could not fault him so. This place seemed created with almost sadistic intent behind it. [break][break] A source? What the dark-haired mage had posed wasn’t an entirely bad idea, though Vaile could not say if he believed that they were supposed to figure it out. Vaile nodded again at what Hans had pointed at, a skeleton with decrepit attire and an open treasure chest. [break][break] "Need a moment?" [break][break] “I’m fine.” Vaile pushed the phrase through nearly closed lips. “Go ahead.” He motioned with his head, a short distinct nod, as Hans would have walked ahead anyway. [break][break] And then, the dark mage set off the trap that perhaps everyone had been waiting for. Vaile didn’t flinch at the launching of shadows. Shadows never scared him. [break][break] But that ghostly white specter still never left him, and his gaze fell downwards one again. [break][break]
“Please,” Vaile sighed, unable to lift his head. “Please don’t.” [break][break] “You’re afraid.” [break][break] “I have been…” Crimson eyes met sapphire. “For a very long time.” [break][break] “What are you afraid of?” [break][break] “I’m afraid of losing you.” [break][break] “But I’m already gone.” [break][break] “You’re already gone.” [break][break] The shadow sword wasn’t his, it was hers. The world of darkness he lived in, wasn’t his creation, it was hers. He could over ever be a poor imitation, he knew that. So when his stance faltered and when his grip grew too loose, the shadow blade was taken out of his hands by a ghostly grasp. [break][break] She turned the blade on him, and he didn’t fight it. [break][break] The physical pain didn’t register, even if dark liquid began running down his sides. It was black, it wasn’t red. It was flowing faster out of that imaginary wound. He fell to his knees, coughing up the same dreadful venom. Verena? Hans? Neither were there. Neither could be there. [break][break] Ghastly white faded to a shadow, a shadow that echoed his own visage. He was able to look up and saw only himself. The Vaile that was before him did not smile, he frowned. His crimson eyes shined like blood and silver hair was tinged with shadow. [break][break] Vaile held in ragged breathes. [break][break] This is what they want to see. [break][break]
Thinking of imitation, “What are you supposed to be?” [break][break] “You.” [break][break] Grimacing again, Vaile grabbed a fistful of his shirt, holding back some smart comment. After all, he knew what looking into a mirror was like. [break][break] “The ‘you’ that you’re afraid to let others see.” [break][break] Feeling black liquid trail from the corner of his mouth, Vaile wiped at his face with the face of his hand. [break][break] “The ‘you,’”The shadow Vaile came closer, thrusting a finger into his chest, twisting into the wound and flesh. Vaile couldn’t stop him, his own body didn’t listen to him. “That you keep so buried deep, locked and hidden away, so no one can see it.” [break][break] And this fake Vaile kneeled down so close to him, falling with his counterpart down to the ground. Vaile was on his knees, one hand grabbing at that unknown wound, the other desperately trying to pull out the fake’s hand from it. And this pseudo-Valentine, lowered his head to nearly his own. Lips breathed out cold, icy breathe. Chilling words were whispered so close to his ear, Vaile began to shiver. [break][break] You. [break][break] The you that H̵͎͕͕̤̹̹́̀͆̆̇͝A̵̢̞̪̩̖̠͂͠T̵̡͛͒͊͝E̴͉̫̣͓̐S̶̡̪̗̾
Magic Knights,
Daemons,
your father,
your family,
your magic,
your sister,
yourself.
[break]
Stuck. That was all he was. There was nothing else that Vaile truly knew except the pain and the anger that he did keep so buried deep inside his heart that it felt like his chest could burst. What could he do except face it now? It was ugly, it was angry, in the end, it was just him. [break][break] “You are more than just some version of me.” His grip upon his shadow wound loosened, and hands, instead of pushing away, went to go around the fake’s shoulder. [break][break] It was something he learned recently how to do. Hug. [break][break] “You are me.”Admittance. [break][break] “And I do hate a lot of things.”Acceptance. [break][break] “But I’ve been learning that there are things in this world that we don’t have to hate.” [break][break] “Maybe it’s... not love.” His voice almost grew weaker, but he could feel tension fade away from the man he was holding. “But it doesn’t have to be hate.” [break][break] You don’t have to forgive, but you also don’t have to continue to hate. [break][break] Had he said the right thing? He wasn’t sure if he knew what that meant anymore. Was it kindness? Was it mercy? Was it that change of pace he thought he needed? If this was the picture he’d painted of himself, then now there was all too much of an audience to witness it. It felt all too real to be an illusion. [break][break] Deep breathe in, deep breathe out. He focused on the sound of his breathing, the sensation of air that filled his lungs and then left it. The body he held felt ice cold, and he continued counting the breathes until slowly… that shadow Vaile faded away. [break][break] His open arms held on to nothing. [break][break]
The darkness receded from where he knelt, and he looked to his side to see that there was no injury there. He was still left questioning if that was the show that Magic Knights wished to see, but instead of dwelling upon the machinations of their crafted trial, he held his tongue, once again holding back more spiteful comments. [break][break] He held his hand up, inspecting the gloved appendage. He was shaking, and he could tell his heart was still racing. Finally, he curled his hand into a fist. [break][break] Raising his head, Vaile looked at what Hans had pointed to earlier before both had been overtaken by whatever shadow visages that had turned into living nightmares. Vaile stood tall, summoning another blade of shadow to his side. [break][break] Of course, he noticed Hans on the ground nearby, likely having gone through his own form of torture and trauma. His gaze only then traveled to Verena, but he couldn’t look at her for very long. [break][break] He did not know how to comfort others. So instead, he vyed for the pragmatic approach. [break][break] “If you’re done here, then so am I.” He said almost too coldly. His blades of shadow shot forward, crashing into the garish display of treasure and skeletons. Vaile kept his demeanor unnaturally even. [break][break] He did not enjoy such an experience at all. He would have preferred to leave it behind. Then, Vaile walked ahead to the door that was at the far side of the room so they could enter the next.
COMBAT SUMMARY
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
POW175 (+9)
DUR 000
STA 100
SEN 58
CON 120
SPEED 15 m/s
STRENGTH 1/2 junior
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
MANA SKIN archmage
HEALTH grand
MANA POOL 240/240
MANA REGEN 60 ic | 55 ooc
[attr="class","withoutyouscroll2"] Dungeon WC:
Floor 1, Room 1: 4,500/4,500
Floor 1, Room 2: 1,682/4,500
Floor 2, Room 1: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 2: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 3: /4,500
Floor 3, Room 1: /4,500
[break] TL;DR Vaile goes into the dungeon, has an angst episode. (cont.) [break] [break] Spells: [break] Umbra Gladiolas
This perk allows a person's spells to naturally move 5 m/s faster than normal, this increases to 10 m/s at grand rank.
[break]Description: Using his shadow element, Vaile creates a giant-sized longsword, a double-edged straight sword. The blade length is 2 m, 75 cm wide, with a large two handed grip. The giant blade is able to cause major [Senior] Rank damage, which is lethal at a direct hit, can shatter and break bones, slice major/severe cuts, and destroy most non-magical structures. Vaile controls the blade remotely within a range area or he can shoot it off to slice or fire at an enemy from a distance. Vaile is able to create an additional sword per ammo rules.
[break] Rank & Element: Grand [break] Class & Type: Mundane Armor [break] Magic Specializations: N/A [break] Appearance & Lore: A lightweight armor that allows for maneuverability, yet still offers high levels of protection. Though at a glance it may seem to be made from leather, it is made from a much more durable material that comes with the same level of motion as such. The armor comes with a hood that can be worn, as well as two wristguards to cover the forearms and hands that match the color of the armor. [break] [break] The armor contains four straps that are used to fasten it to keep it on, with ornate buttons used to secure them on the user. The forearms, chest, and thigh paddings are reinforced to allow for more security.
Verena nodded her head towards Vaile's request. She supposed he was right. She imagined that her intent carried through, but it was perhaps that exact intent that stirred such a response. His words were quiet, but they were still heard. She worried about Vaile. She probably would for quite some time. But right now, that was not the sort of worry necessary.[break][break]
Right now, she needed to make sure that everyone got through this. And similarly, she needed to make sure that everyone would help her get through this as well. No doubt she wouldn't be able to contend with everything in this dungeon on her own. They all needed to support one another.[break][break]
Come to think of it, Verena thought as she looked to Vaile and Hans, they actually had a perfect team utility-wise, didn't they? Both of them were formidable powerhouses, with Hans serving as an elite defensive mage and Vaile an exceptional utility mage. She herself was a utility mage as well, though she still had a long way to go before she would consider herself exceptional by any stretch of the imagination.[break][break]
Hans said what she was thinking, suggesting that they find the source. That was the best idea; no matter what situation a group found themself in, if a spell was cast, then it could be broken in some way. By forcing the de-activation, getting out of range, running the caster out of mana...[break][break]
All of these were viable solutions under normal circumstances, but in this case, only the former could reliably be dealt with. A trigger of some sort was most certainly responsible for the spell, and as this was a dungeon, they weren't going to be able to get out of range until they cleared the room, nor would they be able to run a dungeon out of mana. For now, it was best to treat this space like a puzzle and stick together while they worked to unravel it in her eyes.[break][break]
Hans was the first to point out the skeleton with the ruined clothing. No doubt it had been dead for what would have been dozens of years, perhaps more. It had rotted to just bones and the clothing it wore had been consumed by some sort of insects or some other sort of pest. How unsightly. Beside it was an open chest. The brunette eyed it curiously. Usually, chests were closed weren't they?[break][break]
Hans asked if either of them needed a moment. Verena shook her head, though she did take a step back at the sight of the skeleton, showing some level of fear. It wasn't any different than decay magic. It wasn't any different than as if her father had done this to the body. This poor soul.[break][break]
Of the three, Verena likely was the one that needed a moment the most, but she refused to hold them back for something as mundane as a mere skeleton. Tragic, yes. But that wouldn't stop her from moving forward, no matter if it reminded her of him.[break][break]
Verena followed after the two, not too far behind as they ventured down the long and ominous corridor. She didn't like it. She didn't like this feeling. Though the thought of turning back didn't even so much as register, every hair on her body stood up in violent protest to continuing onward, and yet she advanced forward with the Shadow and Dark mages regardless, ignoring the warnings though not oblivious to them.[break][break]
Once they were close enough, six shadow-like figures jumped out of this chest. It was done so quickly that Verena didn't even have enough time to properly react. She wasn't exactly sure what was going on right now, but Hans and Vaile each seemed to be occupied with these shadows. She couldn't tell what they were seeing, because her focus was superglued on the not one, not two, but the multitude of people before her.[break][break]
The entire Reinsberg family -- her family. Aunts, uncles, cousins. The brother she never knew, her mother... and of course... in ahead of all of them was the man she knew as 'father'. That she knew as Renfir Reinsberg. The man raced towards her before she could properly react, caught off guard for a multitude of reasons.[break][break]
His hand crashed down against Verena as it knocked her against the stone wall. Pinning her to the ground as he wrapped his hands around her throat.[break][break]
"You wretched child!" the man screamed.[break][break]
"You took away everything from me!"[break][break]
"I'm sorry."[break][break]
Magic wrapped around the figure's hands. Though to Hans and Vaile, it would have been nothing more than shadowy magic, to Verena right now it was all too similar. All too real. It only enhanced the realism of the illusion as she screamed out in agony.[break][break]
"I'm sorry, father! Please, please stop! I don't want to die!" she cried out, trying to pry the hands off her.[break][break]
No. Not again. Not again. Not again, not again, not again![break][break]
"I'll behave! Please, please don't hurt me again! Please!!"[break][break]
Why was this so real? Verena could practically feel her skin melting off. It was an illusion, right? How else could her family be here? She knew that. She knew that better than anyone. This was fake. This was fake. This was fake.[break][break]
and yet...[break][break]
The way her family circled around, staring at her. Watching as this figure who took the form of her father... gathering around as though it was simply the righteous thing to do...[break][break]
Ah... that was right. Seven years now. Seven years she had really only just been running. She had tried helping others, but not once had she truly tried seeking help herself for the matters that mattered most. She was scared. She was scared of someone saving her. Because it was a debt she couldn't pay back.[break][break]
She was scared of her family. Of Renfir. She had only put on a brave face because she had Ardere with her last time. She was scared of death. She was scared of being alone. She was scared of people. She was scared of magic knights. She was scared of so many things that it was almost impossible to list everything.[break][break]
But more than anything...
"Summoner Creation Magic: Sonia!" Verena called out.
She was scared of not being able to fulfill any of her goals before she died.[break][break]
The twin sound golems were summoned around her, chasing off Renfir and her family to get them away from her. "Do you think you've become strong?" Renfir asked.[break][break]
"You haven't." "You're nobody." "You're nothing." "You turned your back on us." "You're just going to die." "You're worthless." "You're just a coward." The various voices from the shadows that took the shape of the family she had grown with knew her quite well, imitating the voices perfectly.[break][break]
She knew that. Verena knew all of these things. She wasn't strong. She did turn her back on them. She was going to die. She was a coward.[break][break]
But she had come a long way, too. She wasn't a nobody. She wasn't nothing. She was still Verena Nicole Ruhm Reinsberg. So what if she was afraid? She wouldn't let that fear prevent her from moving forward. While her father applied that imitation of a decay spell upon her, Verena realized something.[break][break]
The brunette only had ten years to live. That was it. Seven years had come and gone. Her biological expiration date was just set to three years, more or less. Five of those years she had done nothing but live in fear. She had wasted half of her life, and for what? While her father--the imitation of such--tried to imitate his decay magic, she just sat there, letting it happen.[break][break]
Not again. Never again.[break][break]
Verena wasn't as helpless as she used to be.[break][break]
Between the twin Sound golems and this light golem, she wouldn't have any issue finishing them off. Sonia was keeping them from getting close to her with its superior speed, but it hadn't gone on the offensive right now. She had Suna's protection with her right now, as well as Ardere belief in her. She had Valo's passion.[break][break]
"If you're just going to fall back, I'll just come forward. Bestimmung, Shoot!" she slowly began to say as she stood back up to her feet, putting a hand over her throat. Shadow magic had managed to severely damage her mana skin, but it hadn't broken it at least.[break][break]
The corridor wasn't more than twenty meters; this single attack was easily enough to roast the shades, severely injuring them. The additional Bestimmung and Sonia were all at work, going through and engaging the remainder of the Reinsberg family with a combination of speed, power, and precision.[break][break]
Verena took a deep breath. She was the last one to have dealt with these shades, and as such, she felt a great deal of shame. Presumably, Vaile and Hans were watching with some degree of concern, but she didn't look their way.[break][break]
"...Please uhm... ignore all of that..." she weakly said as she tried moving forward with Sonia and Bestimmung.[break][break]
"...I'll talk about it some other time though. It might be best. Just... not now."
[break]
[ floor 1, room 2 ]
Verena scurried into the next room alongside Sonia and Bestimunng, trying to move past Hans and Vaile in the process. She was closest to the door to make it possible, however, she quickly realized that it wasn't possible to get too far in. With just a ten-by-ten-meter space, she wasn't going to be able to get too far. Especially because a pit decorated the bottom levels. A punji stick-like trap was present at the bottom.[break][break]
"No doors, no windows... no ceiling..." Verena noted as she looked around.[break][break]
It was fairly dark, so it was hard to say with complete certainty as to what was going on in this, but when she looked up, there was almost a suffocatingly dense amount of mana swirling around in an almost twisted manner. Wicked laughter and devilish whispers filled the space. Verena didn't like it. She didn't like it at all. Her four golems had been reduced to two; one Bestimmung and one Sonia each. The Shades had been quite brutal in retaliation. But because of that, there was a bit of safety for the remaining members of the group to catch up.[break][break]
Given that there didn't seem to be another way out, Verena clenched her fists together as she exhaled loudly. Vaile's magic -- that which he taught her -- was resonating. Something involving shadow magic was coming. Verena had her golems take a defensive quarter in front of her. In small spaces like this, she wasn't at her best. She needed to rely on Hans and Vaile for this, so she retreated back into a corner.[break][break]
"I didn't want them to see that," she thought to herself once the two were in the room -- likely fighting the enemies.[break][break]
"I didn't want them seeing me so vulnerable. If I'm that weak, then will they really be okay? Especially Vaile... I need to be dependable... I have to be strong for their sake..."[break][break]
"...But I'm not."[break][break]
Verena watched Vaile and Hans handle the incoming shadows while her golems kept her safe from any possible attacks. "Seven years is a long time to be hung up over this... it's not as if I died then. It's not as if I lost the ability to use magic. I have plenty of good things that I should be focusing on. Lydia even found a way to fight off the effects for a while."[break][break]
Element: Sound[break]Rank: Senior[break]Size: Up to 3m[break]Mana Cost: 30 | 15[break]Type of Golem: Scout[break]Applicable Perks: Puppet Master, Reinforced Golems, Ranged Golems[break]Description: Verena's newest sound golem is, for all intents and purposes, the culmination of what she has been trying to achieve. With excellent sensory skills that far outperform any of her current golems and their incredible speed, Sonia golems represent her first new type of golem: Scout golems.[break][break]Sonia golems take the form of a human skeleton; however there are many differences in the anatomy--rather, instead of bone, various types of metals make up its bones, but all ultimately make up a variety of instruments. The skull is covered in a hard material that offers enhanced protection, but brass encompasses most of it, and piano keys make up its teeth. Inside its mouth is a large sound amplifier that is connected to a large brass pipe that functions as a spine.[break][break]The golems 'ribs' are made up of a variety of pipes and Sonia's shoulders have cymbals protruding them ever so slightly like shoulder spaulders. The sternum looks like a series of clarinets melded together against the pipes, though the topmost pipes connect into these clarinets. Sonia's arms are made up of batons, and its hands are made up of smaller cymbals. Attached to these cymbals are instruments are known as dords.[break][break]Where a stomach would be exists a large drum protected by a series of steel pipes connected. Similar to Sonia's arms, the legs are made up musical batons, with knees that look like very small cymbals as well. Furthermore, it possesses feet that look cymbals and dord-like toes again.[break][break]These golems are incapable of being rid upon, but for every 50 [CON], Verena is capable of summoning an additional Sonia. In addition, these golems are capable of unleashing a sound wave that can reach up to [140m] from Verena's current position relative to their own. In other words, if they are [70m] from Verena, this sound wave is only capable of reaching up to seventy meters from their own position. This sound does not hurt Verena. However, anyone within [20m] will suffer [Intermediate] damage due to the area-of-effect nature of this spell, and these sounds travel at [20m/s].[break][break]Doing so grants the caster awareness of mana signatures nearby. However, this does not allow them to differentiate friend from foe. It does, however, allow them to figure out humans from animals, mana beasts, and other non-human entities (elven and dwarven characters still count as human). This 'scream' implants images in the user's head in a manner similar to echolocation, shaping outlines of the landscape and sending them back to the user. This is solely limited to entities that are not hiding their mana in some way. What the caster does with that information is entirely up to them.[break][break]Due to this ability, these golems are the ideal scouts. With superior range, sensory prowess and speed, information gathering is a breeze when it comes to dealing with her surroundings.[break]
Element: Fire[break]Rank: Senior[break]Size: Up to 9m[break]Mana Cost: 30 | 15[break]Type of Golem: Balanced[break]Applicable Perks: Puppet Master, Reinforced Golems, Ranged Golem[break]Description: Bestimmung's source of inspiration comes from two different people. Valo Stark, and of course, the man who taught her fire magic -- Ardere Kasai. With the Royal Knight Exams upcoming, she sincerely felt the need to create something amazing despite struggling beforehand with a source of inspiration. And so she got to work with its creation.[break][break]The first matter of business that Verena felt was prudent in its creation was that this golem needed to be able to contain the fire, rather than be in a constant state of the inferno. To that end, Bestimmung resembles a tall, humanoid figure made up of coal. Make no mistake though, this golem can and will emit enough heat to set itself ablaze when engaging in combat scenarios. In fact, when fighting does happen, it creates a flaming cape and waist cloth born of the inferno that made it, and its body lights up in accordance to the temperature.[break][break]This coal seems to serve as an armor -- a testament to Verena's durable golems [Reinforced Golems]. This "armor" is adorned as a headpiece across its head, with finely shaped coal lodging out around the neck and shoulders to give it an intimidating look. A chest piece is adorned as well, with charcoal-like markings on it to look the part of flame -- this is, of course, not charcoal, but rather it was simply burned into this piece, as are the ornate pieces going down the sternum and hip around the hips and shoulders. Something resembling a belt is adorned across Bestimmung's waist as are more pieces of charcoal armor -- a testament again to Verena's desire to make durable golems.[break][break]What makes this golem unique is that there were two sources of inspiration for it. Taking in the best of what she learned from both Valo Starrk and Ardere Kasai. As with most golems, this golem is proficient in short-range attacks. When engaging in short-range battle, this golem emits a blue hue and that does seem to be its constant state. It uses its powerful punches and kicks to deal with enemies, dealing [Senior] damage and each hit leaves burns befitting of such. It is capable of striking with enough force to knock back whomever it hits with its melee attacks per knockback rules. This golem prefers to grab onto its opponents and use its whole body to emit heat capable of damage if it manages to grab someone. This blue flame was inspired by Valo Starrk.[break][break]This golem is capable of shooting out fire as well from the palm of its hands. It doesn't take much for it to achieve this, and as such as soon as the command "Shoot" is given, its hand glows with a vibrant red and yellow color before a blast of fire is shot out up to [20m], covering everything directly in front of the golem in that range in heat capable of dealing [Intermediate] damage, and burns of equal intensity. This is not a full circle AOE, but instead only covers everything within that designated AOE in a cone-like fashion, thus not endangering allies who are directly next to or behind Bestimmung. Most importantly to Verena, as these fires are only temporary and cannot be sustained, they are incapable of causing any large-scale fires, burning out quickly after their initial attack.[break][break]Like most golems, additional ones be made via ammo rules, capping out at a total of three additional ones. However, these golems are ill-suited to being used as transportation and as such are not used as such. In addition, this golem is incapable of dealing more than [Senior] damage to a single target.
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Floor 1 Room 1
Breathe in....Breathe out....
It was what Hans did over and over as he remained on his knees with hands on the floor. He stared down at the ground and continued to take deep breaths through his helmeted head. The dark mage had no issues with taking care of the shadow that disguised itself as his father...A part of him felt glad that he could experience that...but when it came to the false Suna...Hans couldn't even look it in the eyes as he did it in. The pained scream was still going through his head. She...no, it sounded just like the actual sound mage. Real or not, it was something Hans would never want to hear again.
Hans had nearly forgotten that this was part of the exams, only to remember this and be brought back to reality by Vaile's voice. The armored dark mage finally and slowly looked up at the shadow mage, watching as he destroyed that damned chest.
Right...Hans was not in here alone. He has teammates, they're all taking a test. No doubt the other two had to deal with their fears as well. The shadow mage did not seem as disturbed, however. His tone was nearly cold and his demeanor unshaken. Considering what happened In Kikka, Hans would be lying if he said he wasn't surprised at how Vaile was acting now. Perhaps this was some sort of front, and that the shadow mage was just as disturbed if not more deep down. It wasn't in Hans' place to judge, however, or pester him about it. They needed to continue moving...there was no time to wait.
As Hans slowly got to his feet and sheathed his sword, he turned his attention to Verena, catching the tail-end of her battle. There were shadowy figures...multiple of them. To Hans and probably Vaile, they looked like shapeless beings, but it was clearly not the case for Verena. Hans was a little taken aback by this. "Verena...?" the dark mage muttered. He only knew about the summoner's curse and imagined that would be something she feared...but there was clearly more. The dark mage thought Vaile had many secrets, a lot of things he has kept hidden...but it looks like there is more to Verena than he imagined. Hans shook his head lightly, mostly to himself. He was only comparing those two together, but when he thinks about it, the dark mage was no different. Hans has his fair share of demons as well, some that he was able to make peace with thanks to Verena...but he has yet to find true closure with himself, evident by the two fears that had stood before him previously.
Now, Verena was trying to weakly brush these things to the side which only served to remind Hans a bit about the talk regarding her curse. He was still going to respect her wishes and not tell Suna about it...but the dark mage still believes that she shouldn't keep this bottled up for long. He understood why she did...but she needed to be true to herself...similarly to how she taught him.
"Yeah...." Hans commented to both mages before following behind them through the door....
Floor 1 Room 2
....and into another room.
The area was ten foot by ten foot with the floor below them surrounded by spikes. Bones of various creatures could be seen decorating some of the spikes while some of them had insects around them, possibly feasting on whatever flesh was left if any. The ceiling was well...non-existent which is something Hans realized when he looked up. So far, none of this phased him compared to what he went through in the last room. Deathtraps, remains...just another day in the life of Hans Walker....
As Hans continued to look up, his eyes would lower a little as he felt a disturbance in the ki. Sinister laughter had started to fill the room followed with eerie whispers coming from all around. Hans stopped walking at this point, and placed a hand on his sheathed sword. He felt two figures rising from each side of the spike pit. He didn't need to alert the others, as there was no way they'd miss this. Two shapeless shadowy beings made themselves known, and fortunately, they didn't appear to be the kind to make one see their fears. Hans took notice of Verena protecting herself in a corner with her golems which was probably the best choice given the circumstances and this room. There were only two of these things anyway, something that the two male mages could handle.
But before he got into it, Hans placed his Sinister Shield defense spell on Verena and Vaile, aiming his palm at each of them as a dark aura left him and surrounded the two. It was a mixture of a dark aura and mist in appearance, but it did not obscure their vision. With his armor spell still on, Hans did not need to cast it on himself, so he jumped in with sword in hand, ready to take out whatever anger and grief he felt from the last area on this creature!
Hans lunged forward, attempting to slash the creature, but it was able to break its body in half to avoid the attack, catching Hans off guard! Part of its "body" then stretched out and sharpened almost like a blade, attempting to pierce Hans! The dark mage was able to block the attack by raising the side of his blade up and then swung his sword to deflect it before jumping back. Hans kept his eyes on the shade, intending not to miss a single move...but then it sunk into the ground, morphing into a shadow. "Tch." Hans gritted his as he attempted to figure out where it went. The moment it dove into the ground, Hans lost track of its ki. Did it leave his range? No...that wouldn't make sense. It must've been undetectable at least to ki sensing while it went into that form.
Then, more whispers crept up into Hans' ears, causing the dark armored mage to look around more. As this happened, something slowly started to emerge from the man's own shadow...the shade. A similar thing happened to Hans back in kikka when he had to fight a mana beast under the control of the daemons. It used shadow magic as well and was capable of sinking into other's shadows. Hans fell for such a trick before...but not again.
The moment the shadow started to emerge, Hans was able to sense its ki again and just in time as the shade attempted to slice Hans' head off. Hans was able to react in time by turning around and parrying the strike with his sword. The figure than formed another sharpened "limb" and and snuck in a slash on Hans' armor, leaving a noticeable mark! This thing was capable of damaging Hans' defense spell...so he needed to finish this thing fast. The creature tried to drive both "blades" down onto Hans but he blocked them with his sword and made a slashing movement to push it away before following up with a impale to what closely looked like the lower side of its form. The creature hissed in pain, but the dark mage wasn't going to give it a moment to retaliate. Hans then swept the creature right off of its "feet" and as it started to fall forward, Hans stepped out of the way and shifted his sword around, holding it in a reverse grip so that he can stab the shade in its "back", causing it to wail once more before dispearsing into countless smaller shadows which all floated into the air before fading into nothingness...
Through the use of their grimoire, the user forms a suit of draconic armor made of darkness around themselves and/or others for defensive purposes, but that is not its only use. The armor also gives off a dark aura that increases the wearer's strength to Grand levels, allowing them to deal devastating Grand based damage to their foes and structures. When more than one armor is summoned, its Strength buff will decrease by one rank. (User can summon an additional piece of armor per 75 Control they have.)
Name of Spell: Dark Magic: Sinister Shield Elemental Type: Dark Rank & Spell Type: Grand - Defense Creation Range & Speed: 133 meters - 66 m/s Mana Cost: 50 (Initial) - 25 (Sustain) Stats Effected: +12 Durability, (+10 Durability from Dark element) Applicable Perks: Self Repair, Quick Shot, Skilled Sniper Description: An even stronger variant of Sinister Protection. Using their grimoire, the user coats themselves and/or others with a dark aura/mist like substance that does not obscure their vision. Just like its predecessors, this spell is only used for defensive purposes and nothing more. When more than one of these are summoned, its durability buff will lower by one rank. (User can summon an additional one per 50 Control they have.)
[break] The next room was less of a room and more of just a pit. Vaile looked around, catching glances at the fragile states of both Hans and Verena. His cold reaction to what had just occurred was likely out of place, even for the Blake himself, but Vaile would not entertain the ideas of acting desperate for the sake of an audience. [break][break] However, before he did make another move, he raised a hand, letting his gloved fingers brush against Verena’s arm. A small, poignant point of contact was all it could be, was all he could service. [break][break] “Even though it wasn’t real, it doesn’t make it any less upsetting.” He said quietly to her. “If you feel weak, know that you can rely on others for strength.” [break][break] You can rely on me. Yet, Vaile couldn’t say that thought aloud. Hans was here, and while his experience hadn’t been any less assumingly traumatic, the raven-haired youth was strong and dependable. Qualities that Vaile lacked, the Blake knew that well enough. In the end, he took her own words she had said to him and turned them back on her. Perhaps the person that she needed to listen to the most was herself. [break][break] There was a shade here, a being of shadow. This place was a cruel mockery of what the element was truly like, or perhaps Vaile was disgusted by the disturbing presence of mana that was all too similar to his own. Hans decided to deal with a shade of his own, leaving Vaile to handle the second. [break][break] “Gladiolas.” And his shadowed swords came to his side again, formless shadow solidifying into familiar blades. He noticed Hans’s spell of protection, nodding once to the dark mage as the youth went off to attack a monster. [break][break] Vaile raised three swords high, each levitating in a circular pattern before sharpened edges turned towards a shade and skewered it so. Wisps of shadow faded away into nothingness. [break][break]
Breathing out, Vaile once again bowed his head to Hans. “Well done.” He commented before turning ahead, and the group would see an opening leading to the next area of the dungeon. [break][break]
[ F2R1 ]
[break] It was all the likely would assume, the ‘second floor’ and Vaile knew little about the layout to determine how many other floors and rooms they would encounter before the end of the dungeon came about. It was odd to think they were going deeper instead of higher. [break][break] It was all shattered debris, broken stone and monument, appearing like ruins yet nothing to signify a civilization or reason of existence beyond the purpose of this dungeon trial. If such a place were wholly dangerous in any way, then the Magic Knights never would let prospective recruits into it to explore and tear asunder. Vaile took cautious but definite steps, not wanting to leave room for debate, discussion, or insecurity of their forward progress. [break][break] Though, in admittance, that first room’s encounter had left a bitter taste in his mouth. One that only ruminated and kept churning on the inside. [break][break] There was a dark, seemingly bottomless chasm in the middle of the great hall leading to even more egregious giant doorways, numbering three, with one missing one of its doors, only leading to an equally darkened room. Said missing giant door was currently being used a bridge over the chasm. [break][break] Vaile only stopped for a moment, letting crimson eyes trail down the cliffside. [break][break] It still could be said that he didn’t trust Magic Knights. And yes, he knew all too well the hypocrisy of such a suspicion considering he was throwing his hat into becoming one. [break][break] Breathing out again, Vaile’s grimoire floated beside him, flipping through dark pages. “Aviarius.” It was a spell that likely both Hans and Verena would be familiar with for different reasons. Cold tendrils of shadow would grow upon each of their backs, and soon formless blackness would take a noticeable shape. Feathered wings sprouted from their backs, and Vaile quickly took to hovering above the ground just feet above that supposed bridge. [break][break] “Let’s go.” He urged them onward, only slightly hoping that neither of the other mages was afraid of heights, though also not addressing such an ironic fear in the first place. [break][break] Flying was much faster anyway. [break][break] Vaile flew ahead into the open doorway. He slowed down once he got past the arch, seeing the room that the door led to. It was a tomb. No other words could be used to describe it. And perhaps Vaile would have felt something for death if he wasn’t already so accustomed to the idea. [break][break] His feathered wings kicked up dust as he landed softly on the stone, still careful if there were traps to be set or triggered. Again, the flagrant showing of tombs and visages of death irritated him more than it moved him. Once it was clear there were no traps in the room, Vaile approached the stone sarcophaguses housed in this tomb. A trio of tombs, like the doors from before. Each was decorated with the visages of warriors and other respectful mantles carved in the stone. [break][break] The one in the center was more lavish than the rest, held up by pillars of stone and one elegantly masoned muse. The woman was crafted so finely it was almost easy to mistake her for sleeping rather than made of stone. Vaile crossed his arms, turning away for another moment. [break][break] If this was a riddle, he had no answer. If this was an encounter, he could only guess what the traps were supposed to be. If this was anything else, he couldn’t even begin to hypothesize how any of this was related to proving an examinee’s ability to become a Magic Knight. [break][break] His impatience was breaking through his calmer demeanor. He said nothing out loud, immediately. In essence, he had nothing to say.
COMBAT SUMMARY
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
POW 175 (+9)
DUR 000
STA 100
SEN 58
CON 120
SPEED 15 m/s
STRENGTH 1/2 junior
[attr="class","withoutyoustats"]
MANA SKIN archmage
HEALTH grand
MANA POOL 240/240
MANA REGEN 60 ic | 55 ooc
[attr="class","withoutyouscroll2"] Dungeon WC:
Floor 1, Room 1: 4,500/4,500
Floor 1, Room 2: 4,500/4,500
Floor 2, Room 1: 1,338/4,500
Floor 2, Room 2: /4,500
Floor 2, Room 3: /4,500
Floor 3, Room 1: /4,500
[break] TL;DR Vaile defeats a shade in F1R2, then continues on to the next floor & room. Gives everyone some wings. [break] [break] Spells: [break] Umbra Gladiolas
This perk allows a person's spells to naturally move 5 m/s faster than normal, this increases to 10 m/s at grand rank.
[break]Description: Using his shadow element, Vaile creates a giant-sized longsword, a double-edged straight sword. The blade length is 2 m, 75 cm wide, with a large two handed grip. The giant blade is able to cause major [Senior] Rank damage, which is lethal at a direct hit, can shatter and break bones, slice major/severe cuts, and destroy most non-magical structures. Vaile controls the blade remotely within a range area or he can shoot it off to slice or fire at an enemy from a distance. Vaile is able to create an additional sword per ammo rules.
Fast Lane:Transportation spells may give an additional 5 meters a second faster than normal. Once they become Grand rank this increases to 10 meters a second.
[break] Description: Vaile creates a pair of raven’s wings extending from the small of his back. From tip to tip the wingspan is 5 meters long, with shadow 'feathers' appearing to constantly wither and fall from them. The wings appear to be made of solid shadow and grant Vaile independent flight ability, also increasing their maneuverability and overall speed. Besides creating wings for himself, he is able to create wings for allies and other targets, however, they must remain within his range. The maximum number of wings Vaile can create is equal to the normal passenger number for a senior transportation spell (5).
[break] Rank & Element: Grand [break] Class & Type: Mundane Armor [break] Magic Specializations: N/A [break] Appearance & Lore: A lightweight armor that allows for maneuverability, yet still offers high levels of protection. Though at a glance it may seem to be made from leather, it is made from a much more durable material that comes with the same level of motion as such. The armor comes with a hood that can be worn, as well as two wristguards to cover the forearms and hands that match the color of the armor. [break] [break] The armor contains four straps that are used to fasten it to keep it on, with ornate buttons used to secure them on the user. The forearms, chest, and thigh paddings are reinforced to allow for more security.
Post by Verena Reinsberg on Jul 6, 2021 3:01:04 GMT -5
[nospaces]
[attr="class","verenaver2image"] [break]
POW
DUR
SEN
STA
CON
077
137
014
065
075
[break]
MANA SKIN archmage
HEALTH grand
MANA REGEN 55 IC // 75 OOC
MANA POOL 256/285
[break]
[attr="class","verenaver2scroll"]
[ floor 2, room 1 ]
The two mages had managed to handle the Shades. Verena was still shaken up by everything that had happened prior. Her own traumas had blinded her at the moment to what Hans and Vaile had gone through. And she needed a moment to process her own failure. Her own blunder. She didn't want others seeing this side of her. This weak, pathetic, terrified version of herself went against everything she wanted to become. But there was no point in hiding it.[break][break]
As Vaile entered the small room, he reminded her. He reminded her she wasn't alone. It wasn't that she didn't want help though... was it? She ... admittedly wasn't sure. She wasn't sure of a lot right now. She needed ... time to think about everything that had just happened. And how it might affect them going forward. Was it wrong? She didn't know. But it didn't matter.[break][break]
An opening appeared that led the group into the next space, and Verena truthfully saw no reason to ignore it, advancing forward with the likes of Vaile and Hans.[break][break]
Verena was surprised at just how massive the next space was. The floor itself was shattered as though a massive natural disaster had torn it in a split. A massive crevice was present in the earth, tearing the chamber in half. The ceiling and floor were at an angle, creating an uneven terrain. A ground battle would be near impossible here for any short-ranged mages.[break][break]
There were three doors at the far end, and a roughly five-meter tall door was working as a makeshift bridge of a sort, connecting the two halves of this destroyed place. She wasn't sure what to make of it, but something with terrifying physical or magical power must have been responsible. Verena hoped that nobody had to fight whatever that was; that seemed like certain death.[break][break]
To think that a space like this existed in that nightmarish place... wasn't something like that simply too much to expect most Magic Knight trainees to go through? This seemed all a bit... extreme to expect someone to go through. But there was nothing that she could really do about that. It wasn't her place to cast judgment. She just had to get through it...[break][break]
...She, as well as Hans and Vaile both did.[break][break]
Vaile cast the spell that they had used when they were in the dungeon together. The one that he had suggested be used as a training exercise near two years ago at this point. It had been a while since she had been able to see this spell, but even the shadows were cold, there was still warmth to them. At least, to her.[break][break]
The tendrils wrapped around her, forming a great pair of wings visually as she was able to fly. This same ability was granted to Hans. Verena took this moment to fly around -- she didn't seem to be with the group actually, instead of enjoying the ability to bask at this moment. It was a nice feeling... one that she missed. One that she couldn't truly get with her golems. But she made sure to quickly catch up with the group after this "stress relief".[break][break]
As a result, she was technically the last to enter this space. Sarcophagi were scattered across space, five rows of three. The monument of a warrior lay rested upon each of these, aside from the large one placed in the center. Though each of these resting places seemed made with care, the one with the woman in the center seemed... especially meticulous in its attention to detail.[break][break]
Verena took a moment to look around, circling around the space as she tried taking in all of the surroundings. If there was a puzzle, she wasn't sure what it was. But given that there didn't seem to be another way through, it did seem to be some sort of puzzle... Verena placed a hand to her chin, but ultimately let out a sigh. She didn't really have an idea. So while they had this moment...[break][break]
"...I might as well explain myself," she said, averting her gaze from Vaile and Hans.[break][break]
Vaile knew more about her situation than Hans did, but that did not mean either knew the full story. But right now, it seemed as though they were at a standstill, and it didn't seem there was any danger about. At least, not right now.[break][break]
Verena took a deep breath before she faced both with her first statement. "At this point in time, I have just over three years before I die. My birthday -- which marks the day I received my grimoire -- is also the anniversary that my father cursed me. Of course, he was arrested after he nearly killed me... but the damage couldn't be undone. Lydia's potion was the first chance in these seven years I've had at ... being normal. And given I ran away after being discharged from the hospital, my aunts and uncles blame me for the decline of the family and refuse to acknowledge me."[break][break]
"Once Lydia's potion wears off, it'll probably go back to being the same. Father's curse effectively is causing my body to fall apart. To decay. That's why I've always been slower and weaker than everyone else. My mana skin is effectively the only thing that keeps me safe," she admitted, sighing.[break][break]
"I wasted five years of my life, too afraid of people. Too afraid of trusting others. My family was always... harsh. But they had to be; the Noble Region is... not so easy to live in. My family especially is thought no better than Commoners in some of the more extreme cases. We have accomplished nothing in hundreds of years. We are nothing. And as things stand, we will lose our status, our home, and likely one another. I don't care much for my aunts, uncles... mother. And father terrifies me. But my cousins suffered because I ran away. And because I ran away, the brother that was given up that I never knew has been through... so much. So I have to go back. I have to force them to acknowledge me. I have to make House Reinsberg feel like a home for all of us. For my brother, for my cousins... for my future cousins. And I've only got three years to do this in..."[break][break]
As she spoke, she never once looked at the group, instead, she was eyeing the room, slowly walking around as she tried examining things -- though careful not to touch anything. There wasn't ... anything. Without trying to mess with the sarcophagi, it was near impossible to know what was going on. Any one of these could be a trap. But...[break][break]
Verena outstretched her right hand, revealing some sort of mark as she did so, carefully touching each "point" on it. A map suddenly appeared before the three mages, covering thirty-six meters worth of space. Verena continued to move around, tracking each coffin and checking her map to see if anything new popped up in it.[break][break]
"...At least, with that potion though I can build muscle. I can reasonably expect to become at least average. It'll make it easier. I've only got about three years to accomplish this. It doesn't matter if I'm scared of my father, or if I'm scared of my family. I have to. I don't have a choice, because I'm the only one in my family who can do it."[break][break]
Suddenly, something on her map spell showed up, revealing an abnormal mana signature. There didn't seem to be anything dangerous in it, remaining perfectly still. It wasn't in the center sarcophagus, but rather three across from it, facing it.[break][break]
Verena glanced over at this, before looking at Hans and Vaile. "...I still haven't managed to really obtain any real muscle yet. Lydia and I are working on that, but there's still more to be done. Could one of you lift this? I think there might be a switch in here of some sort. What it does, I don't know. Vaile, would you please check to see if there's any trap and if there's a way to disable it?" she asked.[break][break]
Sure enough, there was a trap attached to this coffin in particular. This one, and only this one. Assuming Vaile did as asked, he was able to detect it. Unlike most traps, this one was able to be deactivated by others, and it could be done so by simply utilizing one's mana to emit an aura of a sort. A strong enough mana source was more than enough to cause it to disperse. The particular trap seemed to respond in a way that someone as sharp as Vaile would have picked up on that when he used sensory to piece apart from the trap.[break][break]
Once the trap was dismantled, Verena looked to the raven mage. "Can I ask you to remove the sarcophagus?"[break][break]
If Hans agreed to, a corpse did remain, but it seemed otherwise completely still. There was nothing about it that was animated. However, if it had been disturbed prior, every single corpse in this space would have been on the three, whether they knew it or not.[break][break]
The corpse contained a single lever. Verena moved to pull it, and upon doing so, the sarcophagus in the middle opened up. It was too dark to see what was inside, but... it was clear there wasn't a body. Instead, there seemed to be a hallway for the three to get through.[break][break]
"...It seems that's the next way. But... please don't tell anyone about this. The B-..." Verena began to say, stopping herself. "Another family managed to keep the details of this from the general public. Only a few noble families are aware of the situation, and even fewer know about the specifics. My family and I can't afford for this information to become public. It'd be the end of us otherwise," Verena said, her eyes focused mostly on Hans.[break][break]
Even before he told him about her future, Vaile likely already had some idea of what had happened to her. And he likely knew that the Caldur branch of the time had involved themself in some way. Covering themself to cover another. The Reinsberg were something like an investment at this point, but it was easy to assume that they had been written off by now.[break][break]
Hans, however? He didn't know anything. He was a commoner. If it upset him enough to hear any of this, then there was no saying what could happen. But... he had a right to know. Suna did, too.[break][break]
"So, please. Both of you. Don't say a word to anyone. I will tell Suna this myself. Once the Magic Knight exams have finished."[break][break]
The woman found herself earnestly bowing towards them both. This secret and the source of her trauma were something that she could not afford to talk to just anyone about. It could cost her everything that she was working towards to achieve. She had no choice but to carry this burden on her own, and she had no choice but to find a cure on her own.[break][break]
...that was what she told herself at least. But as Vaile said... or perhaps it was more accurate to say he reminded her of her own words to him:[break][break]
She could rely on others for strength. That was right, she was weak. She had a long way to go. A lot to learn. She could only hope that whatever the future held, she would still be able to be a part of it. She didn't fear death; she feared failing her family in what was the direst situation for them right now. Whether or not they appreciated her was never a concern to the brunette.[break][break]
They needed her. And she knew it. They probably did, too.
[break]
COMBAT SUMMARY
[break]
[attr="class","verenaver2scroll2"] TL;DRFate's Path - Map Reading for Dummies: 9[break][break]
oh boy.[break][break]
verena used her relic to basically find a bizarre coffin with a strange signature -- something that the others didn't have. i had vani roll a die to determine the rank of the trap (1 - junior, 2 - intermediate, 3 - senior, 4 - grand, 5 archmage). three being senior. vaile has enough sensory to see through that (45 requirement). trap was diffused by flaring up mana. from there, sarcophagus was opened up and then verena pulled the lever to open a new door to the next path. yes, we have not met the word count, but we haven't gone through left the space yet. :bigthink:[break][break]
i specifically made the trap in this manner because 1. we have control, and the scaling is really only indicative of the word count. however, i still wanted to rng it just to see what would become of it. as far as scaling of monsters go, verena took grand from the shades imitating her father, but honestly i'm just going to go with rule of cool for most of this dungeon. this room frustrated the hell out of me oocly, so i decided to do something with it because it was too stale imo, so i spiced it up as though it was an actual puzzle room (or, well. sort of. it's like two am right now).[break][break]
"When you spend so long trapped in darkness, you find that the darkness begins to stare back."
Floor 1 Room 2
Back in Kikka, Hans had never got to see Vaile properly fight, so this was a first for the dark mage. Even though he only caught the tail end of this battle, Hans can tell how strong and capable the man is, not that he had any doubt before this. Back when he was still able to sense mana properly, Hans could feel how strong the shadow mage was. Vaile's shadow magic dwarfed Hans' dark magic back then, but judging by his ki now, Hans was able to catch up to the guy, and perhaps even surpassed him by a bit. But there was no gap in their strengths. "Yeah." Hans bowed his head a bit in return. "You too." The shadow mage directed a compliment at Hans which he honestly wasn't expecting. From the outside, Vaile sort of reminds Hans of himself. Quiet, reserved, blunt....mysterious. He wondered if their elements were attracted to people like this...Perhaps they draw people like this together as a work of fate, or something like that. People claim that Darkness is the superior version of Shadow, but Hans didn't believe this sort of thing. What makes an element superior is its user, and Vaile was living proof of that, at least in the dark mage's mind.
With the Shades finished, an opening was made at the end of the room, an entrance to the next area. Like the other two, Hans made his way to it as he slid his sword back into its sheath. The dark mage silently wondered what would be next, but he would see soon enough.
Floor 2 Room 1
Passing through the opening with the others, Hans first took notice of the state of this area. The place was shattered, various debris on the ground left this place in ruin. The room looked almost as if it were torn in half, appearing a bit warped. There was a large seemingly bottomless pit in the center of this chaos. But on top of this pit was a large door which appeared to be used as a bridge to cross this. Hans then looked up to where the door was certainly ripped from, an entrance leading to the trio's next trial surely. Hans used his ki sensory to feel the area around him. There was no one here besides himself, Vaile and Verena, but judging by the state of this area, and the door...they certainly were not the first to cross this place. Whatever being that has tremendous enough power to do this could be long gone at this point...or waiting for them at the very end of this dungeon. This only continued to encourage Hans to be cautious and to not take this lightly. This may be part of the exams...but it still felt like something that shouldn't be taken lightly.
Hans glanced over at Vaile as he heard him cast a spell. Familiar wings of shadow had formed around all three of the mage's backs, causing Hans to glance back at them, making them flap a little. Hans hadn't seen this spell since Kikka, and it was something that really came in handy. The dark mage was and still is only limited to flying on his golems which never really bothered him, but a part of him did enjoy the freeness that came with a spell like this. It made him a little envious, but it didn't really matter. Hans gave the shadow mage a light nod in gratitude before hovering off the ground as well, starting to follow the white-haired guy through that doorway. Hans slowed down a bit as he sensed Verena behind him. She was taking a little longer compared to the other two which for a split second made Hans think something was wrong. But he sensed a bit of that happiness coming from her, a sense of relief...and being free. The dark mage didn't look back or say anything, but he had a light smile on his face. This must be a really great feeling for her...especially with the state she is in. He couldn't help but feel a little happy for the summoner, but was it due to being a bit influenced by her current emotion...or was it genuine happiness for a friend?
The trio eventually made it into the room which felt more like a tomb. In five rows of three were stone sarcophagi. Taking a closer look, Hans could see carvings of warriors lying in state, making the dark mage believe that this some sort of burial chamber for warriors...but in the center was a different sarcophagus. Its carving wasn't that of a warrior, but a woman. It wasn't stone-like like the others and felt more...realistic....and like she was asleep. There was definitely a significance to this one, but Hans couldn't figure out what. The ki in the area was steady, nothing out of the ordinary. There were no threats lying in wait, at least as far as Hans can feel. So this led the dark mage to believe that maybe...this is some sort of puzzle? This would be the first dungeon the dark mage has ever come across that had such a room...since normally there were just rooms filled with enemies to beat all the way until the end. Hans sort of admires the different approach this room is taking...but still cannot figure out what exactly is suppose to be solved here.
"Hm?" Just before Hans was about to curiously touch one of the sarcophagi, the summoner spoke up, wanting to explain something. Not exactly sure what the woman meant, Hans, lowered his hand and glanced over at Verena. She was going into more detail about her curse which was something the dark mage did not expect. What really caught him off guard...was the claim of the person being responsible for this curse...being her father. The dark mage squinted his eyes a little, obviously bothered about this news. It was one thing to be cursed...and only having three years to live...but the fact that the one who put this curse on her was her own father irritated the man, despite him seemingly keep his cool for the most part save for his shift in gaze.
Fathers....
They are supposed to love their child, protect them, care for them. These were traits that Hans' own father lacked, and unfortunately, it seems to be the same case with Verena. No, Hans' issues with his father pales in comparison. The dark mage's old man was abusive, and only wanted to mold his son into an obedient soldier, but Verena....she was inflicted with a deadly curse by her own father. Hans' dad wanted him to be nothing but a puppet whose strings he could pull....Verena's just wanted her dead.
But her story doesn't end with her father. Hans had no idea that Verena had this much on her shoulders, being weighed down by the duties of her family...the same family that is treating her so poorly. In the Diamond Kingdom, Hans is considered a noble, but his experience with them is very minimal, having been a young child when he and his mother escaped to Clover. Here in this kingdom, Hans is a commoner, and has grown up struggling as one. He cannot begin to fathom what Verena is going through, and her duties. He thought that revealing the cure alone could potential break Suna...but all of this was enough to get to Hans. Who knows how the sound mage will react.
Still, Hans tried his best to keep his own emotions in check about this, but couldn't help but clench one of his fists, trying to keep that anger within.
With all of this happening to her, the summoner still has the determination to try and make her noble house better again despite all of the hardships she has to go through. Hans very much respected this...how strong she is in the face of her unfair destiny.
Being distracted by this, Hans didn't realize the map Verena summoned at first until she asked one of the guys to lift something for her. The dark mage quietly walked over and lifted the coffin that she was referring to open. Hans waited quietly for the Vaile to assumingly check for traps, sill thinking a bit about what the summoner said. Afterwards, Hans nodded and removed the sarcophagus, revealing a still corpse. Hans watched as Verena pulled some lever, revealing an opening most likely to the next location. The puzzle of this chamber was solved...but that was far from Hans' mind at the moment.
Verena made it clear that she did not want them, especially Hans to tell anyone about this. "Y-yeah." The dark mage had no problem keeping this a secret. He could tell how heavy this all is, and it certainly wasn't in his place to say a word. It probably took a lot of strength for the woman to tell just these two about it. Hans gave Verena one more reassuring nod as she said she will tell Suna herself. That is for the best. But before moving on to the next area, Hans had something to say.
"Verena..." Hans paused, looking at the entrance as he tried to get his words together. "I will not stand here and try to lie to you. I cannot begin to truly understand what you are going through..." The only thing the two almost had in common about this were their fathers, but it wasn't something Hans felt that was worth mentioning. "This is something that you're going to have to do, which is clear you understand, but..." If he allowed her, the dark mage would place a hand on her shoulder. "...just know that you do not have to go through this entirely alone....We're here for you." Hans smiled a little under his armor, referring to both himself and Suna. He could not speak for Vaile, not knowing how far the relationship between those two are. Hans owes Verena for helping him out...it was only fair to let her know that she had others to rely on as well.
With that, Hans hovered a bit off the ground and flew right in...
Floor 2 Room 2
....to the next room. The countless gazes of skulls were the first thing to greet him and presumably the other two mages. Judging from their ki signature, they were void of life...at least he assumes. The walls of this room was riddled with these skulls, each in a checkerboard-like pattern. It was odd, but not as odd as the melted candles in their mouths, showing signs that they were once lit but no longer. Hans landed on the ground of the room, his shadow wings folding up as he started to walk down this eerie hall. The place was dimly lit by a unknown source which were not from the skulls. Upon closer look, the skulls appeared to be grinning which was something the dark mage wasn't sure they were doing earlier. Were they 'alive'? No...His ki would've alerted him of this...right? The room could just be playing tricks on Hans' and nothing else. But why would there be just an empty room with nothing but these skulls? He started to assume that this was another puzzle, but couldn't figure out what the theme was.
Hans stopped in his tracks and walked over to one of the skulls. He couldn't shake the feeling that these things were probably watching them, but he placed that paranoia at the back of his head. If it turns out to be something hostile, then they will just have to take care of it. But the more Hans stared at the skull, the more he started to piece together something. He looked specifically at the unlit candle then looked over at some of the other skulls. "Maybe we should try...lighting them?" Hans claimed...but he didn't have a means to doing this. Maybe the other two did, or maybe there is something in this room that can help? Maybe lighting them isn't the only answer...or not the answer at all?
Through the use of their grimoire, the user forms a suit of draconic armor made of darkness around themselves and/or others for defensive purposes, but that is not its only use. The armor also gives off a dark aura that increases the wearer's strength to Grand levels, allowing them to deal devastating Grand based damage to their foes and structures. When more than one armor is summoned, its Strength buff will decrease by one rank. (User can summon an additional piece of armor per 75 Control they have.)
Name of Spell: Dark Magic: Sinister Shield Elemental Type: Dark Rank & Spell Type: Grand - Defense Creation Range & Speed: 133 meters - 66 m/s Mana Cost: 50 (Initial) - 25 (Sustain) Stats Effected: +12 Durability, (+10 Durability from Dark element) Applicable Perks: Self Repair, Quick Shot, Skilled Sniper Description: An even stronger variant of Sinister Protection. Using their grimoire, the user coats themselves and/or others with a dark aura/mist like substance that does not obscure their vision. Just like its predecessors, this spell is only used for defensive purposes and nothing more. When more than one of these are summoned, its durability buff will lower by one rank. (User can summon an additional one per 50 Control they have.)
