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.
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[attr="class","shadowsHead"] Destroy the Holiday Spirit
Seems the Local Crime boss has a thing against the local tradition of putting up a massive pine tree, lighting it up with decorations and acting like all is good in the world. I hear it is allergies who knows, but they are requesting help with destroying the tree while it is in transit to the town from the surround woods. There is said to be a guard of soldiers as security and a few civilians’ lumberjacks. Destroy the tree and bring joy to at least one greedy person.
[attr="class","shadowsSub"]Details
Maximum Number of Players: 4
[break]Minimum Word Count: 2000
[break]Location: Kikka
[break]Special Requirements: Must ruin the tree enough that it can’t be restored or salvaged for use by the town.
[attr="class","shadowsSub"]NPC Information
What NPCs are in this mission? Please fill out the template for any notable NPCs. While those you have to socially interact with during the mission are not required any enemy that is presented in the mission must be listed in here.
[break]Physical Damage: How much damage can their physical strength do?
[break]Magic Element and Types: What is their element, and magic specs?
[break]Combat Style: Explain how the NPC fights. Whether its with magic, brute strength, etc.
[break]Additional Information: Any information that you would like to add about the NPC. Such as what they look like, any noticeable features, what their stats are, etc.
[break]Magic Element and Types: – Water | Attack Creation
[break]Combat Style: – These soldiers are from the local area and are very devoted to the tradition of decorating the tree because they have seen how much joy and hope it brings to the people. They work together to both attack from close up and from a distance with their Water magic.
Known largely for his sour disposition and cruel nature, he had earned the ire of the Magic Knights, but remained untouched due to his power and connections. He had friends in very lofty places who had business ventures and stakes in his multiple enterprises so they shielded him from the hammer of law fiercely. Mania didn't have much love for men such as Yohan, but he could respect men who could amass such power and influence. Not many could follow in his footsteps and achieve the level of control and fear he had. Not only that, but he was filthy rich and came from a line of farmers, but he had other plans for his life than remaining idle and content with a life of manual labor under the heel of an oppressive nation ruled by nobles. Mania was coming up in the world and had received an invitation from Yohan himself to take care of some business for him.
The rogue didn't know what type of job he was being solicited for, but he was feeling like a big shot now that he was a part of the Eclipse Ravens. Even his infamy had risen and there were whispers of his name and deeds sifting through the streets and on the lips of both commoners and nobles alike. Though it came at a price and was a double edge sword. No longer was he able to go where he pleased while maintaining anonymity. Deep down though, he was liking the spotlight. Standing in the lobby of Yohan's base Mania was smoking a cigarette as he waited for the Boss to finish a meeting. He had been waiting for about fifteen minutes now, but one of the passing goons Mania had flagged down told him Yohan was in a business meeting and would probably be done soon.
Exhaling Mania would look around, retreating into his mind as he absentmindedly watched random cronies and goons going about their day-to-day. The rogue had no interest in being a common gopher. He believed his skills were at a level where such work was disrespectful to his ability. He wanted to be in a position of power and the Eclipse Ravens would position him to reach heights he couldn't achieve on his own. Another puff and Mania would take a deep pull. Discarding the cigarette Mania would place his hands in his pockets and take a seat. He would unsheath the lovely, silver dagger Volumen Hydrargyrum and twirl it expertly in his hands as he waited patiently for the Boss - Yohan to see him. Mania figured he wouldn't be the only one summoned by the boss himself, missions like these tended to be done in groups of two or more and rarely alone. Rogues had to stick together, especially considering Magic Knights often operated in cells of three or more.
Hopefully, he wouldn't be waiting much longer he thought as he begin to grow impatient. WC: 501
Yohan Sebastian D’arc, now, there was a name that put a stiffy on a jellyfish. The man wasn’t a common thug, neither was he the respectable sort that had ideologies and notions of revolutionary freedoms. He was just as he was; a cutthroat, feared and sallow. Through and through; by and by, the man had a hatred for Christmas. It was unprecedented, the job paid exorbitantly. Burn a tree, smash some ornaments. Few rogues were privy to this, it was an opportunity that only came around once every so often, ludicrous; and affirmatively ruthless, in nature but effectively as good as anything else. Connor scratched the end of his nose thoughtfully as Yohan finished up his conference. The agent of avarice hadn’t been completely honest; as per usual, and assured Connor that this was better work, at least, better than chasing farmer’s wives around half naked. Whisking the dagger away from the first person Connor saw would have been paramount to murdering oneself. The knife would have been lodged in Connor’s gullet, ribs or alternatively; eye ball, had he tried. The guy holding the knife had that sort of look. As Connor walked out to see him, he seemed some what familiar. Looking at himself for recourse, Connor noticed how he himself had slumped out of the room. Shoulders bent crooked, the expression on his face lazily shifting from wry to impassive. The corners of his mouth tugged sporadically into an expression of profound familiarity, Mania had been his name. They had worked together before. Rather then feign a superiority complex, Connor exuberantly sprung from his next step, turning on his heel for full effect to the like of which was satisfying. Once over for the curiosity that one may have felt in their soul when the time was at hand, secondly simply because it would be rude exempting that the sacrifice of time spent was of little consequence. The third circumstance was an alloy of the first two, a counterbalance of sorts that fashioned itself from the room around them. It was contempt.
In their last encounter Connor had played the noble, and he had hated the work. He had hoped this would be different, although it was a strange circumstance for a second meeting, Connor felt as though it wouldn’t be a shame to at least enquire as to how he had been doing. The knife; which could be a whip, at any second could belie a contradiction of nature, but as the passive nature of his greeting was not meant to offend, Connor prayed that his countenance would be; at the very least, curious. ”Salutations, long time no see.” Connor had remembered seeing Mania in the tavern; the night the Eclipse Ravens were recruiting, and wondered if he had in his possession one of those fabled coins of happenstance. The mark. Higher aspirations? Perhaps. Discounts on items sold at the black market? Most definitely. Uncertain of how his presence would be received Connor pulled out his quasi pocketbook, the one he used for account keeping; and wondered if he could afford lunch for two.
Aya had been in good spirits lately, the voices in her head had stopped bothering her for the time being, so she was actually managing to get a good night's rest. With her now being a part of a prominent organization and a few rumors starting to spread about her throughout the criminal underground she felt that she was on a fast track to accomplishing her goals. Now she found there were only two things for her to do that she wanted to accomplish as soon as possible. The first was becoming stronger and regaining her previous magic, obviously. Then maybe those damned voices would shut up for good, and the second was simply to build her wealth. It was because of this that Aya still found herself taking on odd jobs here and there, using her healing magic to get her by for the most part at times.
This time the Elven girl had found herself doing a job that was a bit riskier, it was to find a man by the name of Yohan to get the information and apparently had something to do with a tree of some sort, regardless she didn't care as long as she got paid. She just hoped things wouldn't get too out of hand. She didn't mind being known here and there, but she had seen what happened, felt what happened, and suffered at the hands of others when they knew of her appearance and had made assumptions that she was a daemon. In the end, she had found that most living beings were utter garbage and it was best to just live on the life of her own accord instead of those pesky rules that were imposed by society. However, she knew in order to do that she'd have to be stronger, wiser, faster, and richer in order to truly be as free as she truly desired.
Her pink hair slipped out of her black hooded cloak was draped around her body, hiding her curvature and figure, and most importantly her horns. She didn't want to bring too much attention to herself, however, her pink eyes could still be seen, as the hood came just down to being slightly above them, she had learned long ago that any more than that and it became a security risk as it impaired her vision especially when running. She wasn't sure how dangerous this mission would be, but she did hope that at the very least who she'd be working with had some form of offensive capabilities, as she currently lacked any. Nonetheless, she had learned a few grapples, throws, and kicks from her "father" during her time in an orphanage, as such and she had learned from having to defend herself in the past, that speed and accumulated damage often did the trick, even though it was much more time-consuming, but in the end, it proved to be effective, and until she got a weapon of some sort it was her only means of attack. Though she did intend on eventually looking for something to give her an edge in that department like most things, it would require much more yul than what she had on hand.
Aya made her way to the meeting spot and to her surprise she felt she almost recognized the two faces, one of whom she had even trailed behind and unbeknownst to him used for her own benefit in order to get into the Eclipse Ravens. Though knowing she was working with the two who had some attachment to her, though she had never actually spoken to them- brought her a sense of ease, as at the very least it meant they were capable and reliable. From her lips, she would muse a simple word of "greetings", while they awaited their benefactor.
Mania would recognize the fellow that approached him. The rogue had tricked Mania last they met, pulling the wool over the young rogue's eyes so to say. Even the coin he had been paid with proved to be fashioned out of the mage's gold magic, but Mania had his suspicions so to say after he had seen Connor in action. Mania didn't like to be lied to, in fact, he much preferred those who were honest and candid, though truthfully he had no one to blame but himself. Connor was just a rogue doing what he probably did best, so despite the annoyance he had felt from being manipulated and duped Mania would cut the guy some slack and let bygones be bygones. The knife would expertly swivel in his palms and his eyes gleamed brightly.
"Indeed, long time for sure. Ya got me good last time I must admit~"
A sincere laugh would be released almost like a whistle from Mania's parted lips as he spoke in a cool roguish voice. The two were comrades now after all - apart of the esteemed Eclipse Raven's. So now they flocked together and Mania presumed if he were to act in a hostile manner then that silver-haired woman - Velondra would probably have his head. That thought didn't sit too well with the young rogue as he much liked having his head attached to his body. Though Mania's demeanor was overall friendly the way he brandished the silver dagger was very much hostile and malicious in the display. Meant more as an aggressive joke Mania simply wanted Connor to know that he still remembered what had transpired between the two. It also served as a subtle warning to his fellow ally.
Connor would be digging for coins in his bag as another would join them. She was hooded and her face shrouded by shadows, but what stood out to Mania was her brightly colored hair. It was a vivid pink that fell down into long locks and tufts of hair. The woman Mania did not recognize, though from her greeting he could discern that she was more than likely demure in nature. "Sup, the party is getting started soon~" Mania would say, flashing a big, wide mischievous smile to the mystery woman while spinning he ornate silver dagger in his hand. "The name is Mania, nice to meet ya~" The rogue assumed these would be his comrades for the mission Yohan had summoned him for. Just as the notion passed his mind, the door nearby would open and a large group of disgruntled, unsavory gentlemen would pool out. They were mostly speaking beneath their breath and the cutthroat guarding the door would gesture to the group of rogues to enter.
Mania would raise to his feet, sheathing the gorgeous weapon.
"Would ya look at that, lets go see the big man in town~"
Speaking Mania would enter the spacious room that was decorated much like a normal conference room. There was a large rectangle table in the middle, Yohan was still seated at the head of it smoking a fine cigar. The room smelled heavily of tobacco Mania mused as he regarded the crime boss with a gesture. He would take a seat at the chair closest to the door and wait for the other two to enter. WC: 556 TWC: 1,057
The man had a keen sense of humour, sharp looks and a penchant for forgiveness. Had Connor been virtually unoccupied they may have had a drink or two, played a few games of the drinking variety, and maybe even befriended one another. As far as the remark about ‘getting him good’ went, Connor swallowed it with the enthusiasm that one ruminates eating grass with. It wasn’t that it was of little concern, it was just that Connor had little to say on the matter other than to apologise. “I apologise for my lack of honesty, I hope that won’t affect how we work together, in the future and today.” The woman that approached them was not incredibly tall or hard to look at. She was young, Connor thought privately on the manner but only really regarded her with a confident interest. Connor spoke with the assurance that came with knowing a few things, like how extremely difficult it was to catch a glimpse of her features, how extraordinarily beautiful she was, and how little confidence she exudes herself. “Hello there.” Wanting to converse longer but realising, as it were, they had work to do, Connor pointed out that the door separating them from Yohan was open.
The echoing drum of fingers on wood welcomed them back into the room, Yohan had been more or less circumspect as to the reasoning behind his motives. He pointed to the fireplace to get their attention away from the seasonable scowl he wore with little effort, his monocle was almost picturesque and glinted in the light of the undecorated hearth. He spoke gruffly, irritably and as a man of little recourse. “How curious are you to know what I would like to put under the Christmas tree this year?” What little hair he had on his head and where it went was not a subject that was often debated, skipping the pleasantries he got right to the marrow of his sentiment. Connor shrugged as the question became rhetorical, Yohan answered his question, ” I want to put fire underneath that God damned tree.” Yohan was far from gaunt, though plump would not be associatively true. Athletics would be more up his alley, thought Connor as he passed the uneasy silence, witnessing the sallow expression with which Yohan rocked on his chair.
Connor ventured towards getting the work started and in a wry remark that lacked teeth he expressed this, ” Shall we gift wrap the flame or just a conflagration?” Both Yohan and Connor were completely uncertain of the last word’s validity as an actual addition to the dictionary, but the sentiment was there… and it sounded vaguely intelligent. Which for the most part surprised Connor as it seemed to slide past in conversation as well as he had intended for it to do so. The inspiring nature of Yohan’s scorn for the holiday seemed to fuel even Connor’s desire to get what will be done dusted. Connor wiped his hands together in a particularly salacious and greedy way, kneading his thumbs into his palms, casual responses were not his forte but he listened with the zeal of a saint. Waiting to hear the mention of pay, it was not idle banter that would satisfy the hungry avarice in his heart. After all, he wasn’t here to sniff farts or brown nose. Connor wheedled his knuckles, covetously allowing his attention to linger a while longer.
As Aya approached the two young adult rogues, she couldn't help but feel the odd man out. These two had actually made it into Eclipse Raven with their own strengths and talents, while, she just did the quickest thing she could think of, and that was simply using others as a way to further her goal. She hadn't yet met the threshold of regaining her former strength, and truthfully she didn't know how long that would take, but for now, she figured it was best to lay low. By their greetings Aya was relieved that the two men didn't seem to recognize her, she wanted to keep a low profile for now, and as such made no true effort to impose her relation to the two of them further.
"Here I thought I was late, I guess I arrived just in time," Aya mused with a coy smile, her pink hair still the only thing visible outside of her mouth and nose. She wouldn't yet bother to pull back her hood, after all doing such was often more trouble than what it was worth, and as such she had grown accustomed to keeping the restrictive thing on. However, she yearned for the day in which she would powerful enough to not have to factor in such cautiousness or care into who saw her horns. Aya's pink eyes couldn't help but flick to the man's ornate dagger that he spun in his hands, she had made the mental note that perhaps it would be best to find and try and get a weapon of her own, especially considering the company she kept and the darker areas of the clover kingdom that she ventured through on a daily basis.
"Aya Von Shurke, nice to meet you." Her tone and words were polite but she offered no reprieve in terms of stance, her body was still just as it had been before, she gave a bow to no man or woman. In her eyes, there was only one thing worth bowing to and those were deities, and these two men were no such thing. At least to her knowledge.
Aya's eyes trailed Mania as he rose to his feet, sheeting his weapon, she couldn't help but admire its beauty, and she wondered just what kind of weapon she herself should get in an effort to defend herself. She knew it would have to be something inconspicuous, but as to what she could actually get that would manage to be both efficient and non-assuming.
"Oh, I suppose he is," Aya stated, in her usual soft tone, although she was curious just why this man was so hell-bent on wanting to destroy such yule cheer. She wondered just what in his past influenced him enough to be willing to pay people to do such a job as this. As she let the thoughts ruminate, she would opt to take a figurative backseat when it came to conversing with the man, she was just here to do the job and get paid. So as it stood, Aya stood meek and silent behind the two men, waiting for the meeting to take hold, and conclude so they could get on with the mission. After all, she had a couple of other tasks planned for the week and she preferred to get to them as quickly as possible.
Yohan had angrily spat his words out as he slide a rolled piece of parchment across the length of the long, wooden table. Next would be a bag that contained the tools required to burn the tree. Mania would deftly catch it as the document slid in front of him followed by the bag, taking it into his palm and unrolling it, he would sling the bag across his shoulder. The request was simple and mundane much to Mania's disappointment, but hopefully, there would be some level of enjoyment the rogue could derive from it asides from being paid. If there was one thing that kept Mania in this business, he would have to say it was the lucrative pay. Looking over the parchment, Yohan pulled hard on his cigar, enough so that he would choke while coughing out a few last words.
"W-Well off with the lot of you. Burn it all and you'll be compensated!"
As Yohan spoke Mania would rise to his feet, noting the route the tree would be delivered before passing it off to Connor next for him to look through it. The convoy would be taking a path through the forest nearby town and the cover of the trees would prove to be excellent in hiding their ambush Mania thought as he walked past the hooded girl and out the door. He didn't look back to see if they would follow, but he was sure they would be. The rogue wanted to make sure they had ample opportunity to cut off the envoy well before they reached the main road where there could either be backup or unsuspecting eyes privy to their dastardly tomfoolery. While Yohan did provide the location for their mark and what it was they needed to do, he lacked pertinent information on how heavy the security detail would be; though, with three of them, Mania assumed it wouldn't be a problem.
The rogue had seen Connor in action a few times, but the girl he did not know her capabilities. As he exited the compound he would consider asking her a few questions, just to set in stone what everybody would be doing, he pondered the notion. Second-guessing if it was even required given the lack of complexity the request demanded. He didn't think the kingdom would place very powerful mages to guard a simple tree, though in the back of his mind he wondered. This after all was a very special ceremony to the general populace who reveled in the holiday cheer. Mania wasn't as inclined to participate in such holidays as the next man, especially coming from the Spade Kingdom where ceremonies and holidays were a very rare commodity. Looking back Mania would steal a glance at their pink-haired hooded rogue, curiously pondering why she kept her face faithfully shadowed.
He had no problems with it, but Mania did dislike those who hide their face because it suggested deceit and sowed seeds of distrust for him. The way Mania's mind worked, such a thing would definitely prove to be a distraction and even worse could prompt his psychosis. Pushing the thought aside he tried to focus back on the mission and had finally decided who would fill some of the dead air with the aforementioned thoughts he had prior as he exited the crime bosses compound. "So, Aya me and Connor have some history. I'm more or less knowledgeable about what he brings to the job, but not so much about you. How much of the load can you shoulder? Ya know like what kinda talents ya got?" Mania asked in his typical charming, roughish tone as he would lead them outside the town's limits and head to the forest.
The worn path was easy enough to follow and Mania had a good idea of where they should set up their ambush. The envoy was set to pass through a route they thought was secret, but Yohan had gained intelligence that revealed their plans. Thus, Mania and the other two rogues would be able to wait at the end of the route, just before they would hit the main road. From the information on the note, Yohan passed them Mania was also privy to the time they would be coming through. It lacked exact information, but all they truly needed was an estimate for the plan to succeed. Through the thicket and underbrush that led past the tree line, Mania would step through and make a sharp turn as he progressed through the first.
*
A short time would pass before Mania and the two other rogues came to the secret path the envoy would take. He could tell from the worn path that wasn't the main road. It wasn't as well-traveled as the one majority of travelers took so it was definitely it he mused, crouching low behind the lush, vividly green underbrush. It concealed him perfectly out of view and now all he had to do was relax and wait for their unsuspecting targets to wander into the proverbial spider's web. Mania smiled at the thought and clasped his hands together in bated anticipation. "So, I and Connor can use our golems to get the convoy to stop and be on guard as we flank them. The golems will not only serve as a distraction but also a means for you Aya to set fire to the wagon. Our only goal is to burn the goods, but if it gets hairy we can get a bit creative and reckless~" The rogue smiled, flashing his white canines as his eyes gleamed with mischievous intent.
It was a solid plan Mania mused as he awaited the other two to chime in and offer their thoughts. There was still time before the envoy would show anyway. Though it was a simple job the group may not be able to do it without bloodying their hands. Mania wasn't opposed to the idea, but then again the job only required for them to burn the tree. There wasn't much a reason to go the extra mile he mused - they wouldn't be getting extra pay after all. WC: 1,024 TWC: 2,081
Connor glanced at the piece of paper, thinking that the artifices provided were sufficient enough he passed the paper to the pink-haired woman for perusal. Not overly wanting to be deemed a flight risk, no payment in advance was accepted, nor was it proffered. Integrity was a bastion of sentience that the rogues held to the highest of esteems, where one may take the cake, other would suffice to say, eat it. It’s a poor state of affairs when a thief steals from a rogue, whereas the thief has a proclivity to taking what is not theirs, rogues themselves are a different breed and don’t specialise in anything either way. A thief wasn’t always ready to lose a tooth, a rogue was lucky if he had any left. Be it the consumption or just the pretty lights, Connor felt as though their employer’s request was just simply ludicrous. Paying better than your usual run-of-the-mill but lacking in substance to substantiate the worth of the deeds of treason they would be committing. Connor imagined the tree burning, cinders and ashes mixing with the snow. Had they preyed on anything else as genuinely as they had this time of year? Imagine the prospects of yet another year, another fresh pine tree, the smell of the recycled ornaments aflame. These were the things that spoke to him, an echo of sentiment that; otherwise, would have been overlooked by someone who just didn’t have the time to critique absolutely nothing at all.
Everything was crisp, his eyes were open and the cold of the winter stung his fingers. Gloves were a luxury he could not afford, but while the black market catered for extraordinary appetites, they did not civilly provide good quality leisure material. Connor listened to Mania, explaining the rigmarole that was their working relationship like an old lover, Connor smiled and nodded along to the sentiment, curious as he was himself about the pink-haired woman. She was certainly shy, polite; contrite, and enigmatic by choice. He couldn’t help but wonder what she hid beneath her cloak, as men often do to pass the time; at least in an innocent boyish manner, and while he couldn’t fault her on her succinct practicality, he was not meek about his curiosity. Lifting a rye eyebrow to attempt enticing her into the conversation, it was far from flattering but it didn’t hurt to be polite, or so he thought.
Mania led the way and found what would be an excellent position to ambush the burdened, the overly anxious, and the tree couriers. Mentally ascribing to do little in terms of work, he once again listened to Mania; who was full of brilliant diatribe and ideologies, Connor couldn’t help but think that his internal monologue would be pleasant… or at least interesting to listen to. This was just one of those moments where Connor’s attention wandered from reality. Before re-associating himself with his surroundings Connor would take out his Grimoire, a small gilded pocketbook that was golden in hue. His clothing was stark in Their environment, sable albeit powdered with the fresh snowflakes that fell this time of year. He had purloined the item from a guilty faced agent of avarice, although he didn’t exactly speak English when explaining its functions to Connor, it was incredibly fashionable and Connor, at the very least, had to have it. It had lost most of his Yul and while the security of a wanton amount of wealth was attractive, Connor felt more secure with a decent set of armour to protect him. The name of the armour eluded him, the merchant assured him it was only one of four or so fragments of a lost artisan’s work. Connor loved the material it was fashioned from, and the look was lethal.
While Connor fancied himself, he imagined that Aya and Mania were probably discussing the terms of splitting the loot, Connor proffered no semblance of interest; in anything other than himself. Knowing full well that Mania was; while roguish, fair and even in his calculations, and wouldn’t; probably, fall short in that department for the sake of appearing downright gentlemanly in front of the lady.
The matchbox he kept in his pocket was filled with brittle pine splinters. Connor seriously doubted that the tree itself would ignite with such little insistence, however, their employer had supplied them with a suspicious liquid material that resembled house cleaner. Being an ordinary citizen as he were; Connor did not have a mind for the finer alchemical works at play here and trusted that it would be a sufficient fuel to carry out the intended work. It was in a bucket with a skull and crossbones printed on it, had a greyish brown colour, and smelt unappetising. He regarded it with little interest, instead of waiting for the conversation to pick up between the three of them, or, for the work at hand to progress.
Aya listened intently to their current employed, she had no idea why this man hated yule to such a degree, to even go as far as to employ people to destroy things like simple trees, but as long as the money was good she consistently grew less and less interested in whatever the man's story was. Instead alongside Connor and Mania, she made her way out after receiving the request. As Mania spoke to her she figured it was only polite and could possibly ensure a better future relationship with the two of them, after all, they were all in the same organization, although to her knowledge they didn't know such information about her.
"Well, that depends on the position given. I can on utilize Defense and Healing magic, for now, I more so lay within the realm of support" Aya spoke in her soft meek tone. Most would find it odd that a rogue only had the talents for such magic, but so was her way of life, there was little she could do to change that fact, at least for now. Nor would she bother speaking about the martial arts her father had taught her. In her mind as far as they needed to know she was nothing more than a simple pawn, for the time being, a small-time rogue trying to get her feet wet. "So, if you all need any help or healing feel free to call upon me." She stated in a submissive tone, from her perspective it was easier if they thought of her as at least the most tad bit useful.
Aya made note of her location, she had done very little travel of the clover kingdom as a whole, and as such, she made it one of her goals to make mental and physical maps (when given the chance and time too) of the Clover Kingdom and all the places she had traveled. At least the places she wouldn't mind others seeing if they had got ahold of her maps.
Aya followed the worn path, happy as could be for the time being though she didn't let it show on her face. A simple job and a bit of sightseeing on top of that, not to mention ruining some yule cheer. It didn't bring her as much joy as she thought it would see others suffer but brought enough. Even a little bit of cheer for herself was better than nothing at all, especially when Yul was involved. Now all there was left to do was lay and wait for the envoy to come. Though she did like that Mania not only had a plan but took charge, at the very least it took more interest off of her and placed them on to dark-haired man.
Aya squatted down and waited patiently as time went by, she took in what the black-haired man stated, "Set fire to the wagon, got it. However, if either of you gets injured and needs more assistance all you need is to shout, and I shall come running." Aya stated, matter-of-factly. She didn't mind things getting reckless, however, she much preferred a smooth and easy job, in and out. That way things would be done and over within the timeframe she'd like them to be, and on to her next job.
It was Mania's first time meeting another rogue who didn't possess much in the way of offensive capabilities. Not that he was excited she lacked any real means of attacking, but because it meant he wasn't the only one. What Aya was skilled in, however, was healing magic. Which was rare amongst the miscreants known as rogues. They tended to be mages who abused their magic in a way to get what they wanted, so it made sense for them to specialize in things like Sensory, Attack, Physical Reinforcement, and Restraining. To be honest it was a breath of fresh air and she would make a powerful ally if Mania could convince her to partner with him eventually. Mania would pocket the idea and return to it later after the deed of burning the trees had been completed.
"Will do, your healing talents will surely come in handy~"
Mania cooed in his roguish voice. He noted Aya still had her hood pulled closely over her face, it still obscuring much of her features. He thought it odd, but most rogues liked anonymity so he wouldn't press the thought further than a breath musing. With that said, the trio only had to wait in the blistering cold as the sun begin to hang low and nightfall slowly encroached. The sound of wagon-drawn carriage could be heard making its way down the worn secret path. It was drawing near so Mania would give a signal that the party was to start soon. He did this by producing an innocuous whistle that mimicked a native bird to clover. Mania would infuse his grimoire with magic while hidden in the lush, shadowed underbrush. Mania would produce a single predator golem that was created from the pooling liquid silver, forming into a large smoothly polished creature. Mania would mentally command the golem into action as it would stand in the middle of the path.
"Aya, take care of the cargo while me and Connor distract them. Be careful~"
Mania would say as the sound of whinnying horse and the wagon-drawn carriage came to an abrupt.
"What the hell is that thing?"
One guard could be heard saying as Mania peered through the bushes and ascertained that there were at least 12 guards. They readied their magic of the water element to intercept Mania's golem. The rogue smiled and ordered his predator golem to hunt. The golem would rampage and easily catch 4 of the guards off guard, heavily injuring them as their blood reflected off of its metallic body. The guards became disorganized as they realized the golem was a true threat and they angrily replied in kind with their own attacks that the golem would dodge with its higher speed. Water spheres, arrows, and canons would be used as the Hydrargyrum Hunter leaped out of the way. "Time for the stars to make an appearance Connor!" Mania flashed a smiled and jumped into action, catching two of the guards off guard as he drew his blade and cut the tendons of both of their legs. They fell to the ground writhing in agony as Mania stomped them into unconsciousness.
"You'll pay for that!"
The guards echoed, mimicking each other. Mania would chuckle in response, catching the gleaming silver blade as he tossed and flipped it into the air. "Maybe, but you guys are in over yer head. I would cut tail and run now before you guys die, but that's just me~" Mania would taunt them in his roguishly smooth voice. They would look to each other, but with their eyes focused on him, his predator golem would slam into the two closest guards to Mania and pin them to the ground. With its large fists, it would pound them until their eyes shut signaling they were knocked unconscious. "Sorry bout that, but you all should pay attention!" The guards yelled angrily in response as Mania lured the remained ones to the front end of the wagon-drawn carriage so that Aya could slip behind and do her thing. As Mania danced around them they fired off a torrent of water-based spells; however, it was child play to Mania who was a craftily skilled rogue.
Holding his left hand forward, the ring - Slyph's Blessing would glow and conjure wind magic that redirected their futile attacks back towards them. They would dive out of the way and circle Mania, cursing his existence which was an awful thing to do. Mania could have easily killed these men, but they didn't deserve to die. Especially since the job didn't have any merit in killing them. As someone who had yet to take a life yet, Mania still figured that eventually, a job would require him to finish the deed. However, for now, granted Connor didn't go batshit crazy on the poof blokes they would be lucky. WC: 808 TWC: 2,889
The rickety sound of their wagon alerted a micro-sleeping Connor, and although he was semi-lucid by the time Mania sprung into action he was slow to respond himself. Calmly he left his position with a box of matches in hand, his numb fingers fumbled around with the cardboard box like it was his only meal ticket. He walked towards the caravan of men, Mania was making short work of the guards. His golems whizzing around the enclosed space like tears of silver, Connor had a few resignations about how ruthless he was being but kept them to himself. They were after all guarding a tree; one the small team of eclipse ravens had been paid to destroy, their Christmas cheer was soon replaced by abject horror. The comatose guards gave Connor little trouble as he lingered by the tree for a time, considering the ludicrous nature of their employer's request. Few thoughts passed through his mind, some ranged on the absurd while some lingered on tarrying awhile to make sure they did what they had set out to do. Cold snow billowed past him as the wind swept through his loose-fitting garments, chilling him to his bones. Water mages guarding a tree in this weather were most likely all the deterrents that common criminals needed to stay away from the convoy.
Blinking as he laid hands upon the almost sapient wood of the alpine, the decorations were regarded with a mingled sense of remorse and nostalgia for Connor. A better time in his life morosely plagued him, a time when his family was together; when he was younger he anticipated this holiday with no small amount of condescension, being noble had its perks. The blue blood’s had banquets, spiced spirits and an ineffable allusion towards merriment during this time of year. Connor couldn’t muster the same feelings of contrition he always had, as he looked down at the empty spaces between his fingers he suddenly felt incredibly lonely. Looking back for a time at the cloaked figure of Aya, and glancing over towards Mania who had just exited the thrill of combat, he let out a sigh before thumbing a match from its somewhat dry home. Striking it against the side of the box had seemed like a good idea, after all, what’s Christmas without a little arson with your friends? The fire crept over the dry pine needles, the tinder’s chemical composition gave a pleasant smell, and Connor stood back to watch the flames burn. Small embers glittered as they trailed through the air, it was almost peaceful when one of the guards who had been rendered non-combative started sobbing, “That was our Christmas Tree.” Connor smirked faintly before mulling the concept around in his mind for a while, he leant down fully expecting the guard to lash out angrily, but the blow never came. Consoling the man was of little consequence, and he felt as though some consolation was in order after their dastardly deeds, afflicting the realm’s good spirit was not work that Connor wanted to do, but if they didn’t do it, someone else would. “There’s always next year… Enjoy the Christmas lights and the warmth of the fire.” Betwixt the inferno and the crack of splitting wood, the caravan collapsed under the weight of the flames that had yet to settle.
They had been charged with burning a single tree and crushing the Christmas spirit of Clover citizens, the snow assured them with such precision as nature may afford that grand scale arson wouldn’t transpire to sully their work. As grim as their prospects looked in the future, Connor couldn’t help but smile and cozy up to his comrades, who were as effective as criminals as they were reliable. Although the walk back would be trekking through snow, Connor marvelled at the indelible passage of time that proffered ill will at such precocious times. The guards would not die of the cold, the fire would make sure of that. Their rations would probably be spent returning to their homes, with many unkind and unflattering words about the rogue’s boldness passing between them to pass their time. At the very worst their pay would probably be docked, the tax department would set aside some funds for the church, and the rogues would have an easier time accessing the Yul as a result. The world continued to turn, just as it always had, and for this, Connor was thankful.
"I'm sure they will, although I trust both of you should be able to handle yourselves in the inevitable event of confrontation." Aya stated in a soft tone, her eyes glancing over the two men she was to be working with for only a quick second before she turned her attention back to the task at hand, sure that what she knew in the back of her mind was something they were most likely thinking. That simple though being that she was unusual when it came to most rogues. After all, it wasn't everyday that a person ran across a rogue that could utilize nothing more than pure support abilities, and Aya wasn't sure if she'd ever be able to do anymore than just that. Ultimately she knew for her that unless she found some way to use her skills to her advantage, she'd always be taken for granted, used as a simple tool for those more powerful than her that desired her talents. That is; if they didn't kill her first when seeing her horns.
Though she found most rogues to be more well adjusted than some, she couldn't deny the fact that some were just as fearful as things like Daemon's as the magic knights and run of the mill citizen was, and until she could trust the two men she worked with more, although she doubted that would come anytime soon, she had no whims of wanting to take her hood off anytime soon.
Making their way to their designation, Aya was grateful of her large cloak that wrapped around her body, she had on simple sandals but thick socks and as such the only thing helping to continuously warm her was the fact that she had her black cloak that over took her body, trapping whatever heat it could from the suns occasional glare, which was difficult considering the foliage overtaking the trio as they hid. Just when she felt she would barely be able to take the cold seeping in through the openings in her cloak she heard the sound of a wagon, the sound of which made her heart thump in her chest. Her blood flowing through her veins at such an increased pace quickly began to warm her up, which she was thankful for as the day had slowly but surely began to turn to night.
Although the night time sky was much better for their nefarious acts in her opinion. It was then that Aya heard the signal, the whistle of a bird, she grabbed the flammable fluids next to her and waited for her que. As she watched Mania through the thicket of the bushes she was hidden behind, her dark cloak obscuring the guards from seeing her she watched as the man utilized his magic, creating a golem whose purpose seemed rather fitting for a rogue to have considering the way it attacked and dodge thru the guards attacks. Although Aya was surprised to see that Connor was alongside her soon, she did hope that Mania would be okay as losing him would significantly lessen their odds at completing the task, however, she also knew that's when her expertise would come into play but as she watched it seemed Mania had things under control.
At Mania's orders Aya began to sneak throughout the bushes, using the flora of the area to keep her hidden, slowly coming to halts every now and then when the guards would tense up. However, once they would glance at Mania and were distracted by the mans witty banter, Aya continued to move. After what seemed like a short game of stop and go, she felt she was finally in position, she knew all she had to do was wait patiently for the men at the back of the wagon to move toward the front.
Mania had jumped out alone as Connor seemed to do just whatever he wanted, though Aya felt she could handle the destruction of the wagon on her own given the flammable fluids in her possession she made sure to move at as fast a pace as she could (13 m/s), toward the tree, with a heavy swing of her arms she doused the wooden tree and wagon in the flammable fluids, emptying to container before leaping back toward the brushes, she clasped her hands together, as Connor began to fiddle with the matches to light the tree ablaze.
However, as things in the plan had changed a bit to Aya's knowledge, Aya knew they'd need some form of defense. She began to chant, feeling her mana flow from throughout her body as she began to chant her prayer, "Oh, holy deity that dwells within the heart, root yourself, grow and envelop us in your influence. Grant us your aid, please accept my prayer of protection." With her chant done, the mana flowing through her body easy it always did, her pink mana would fluctuate from the tip of her skull and down to her feet spreading out in an octagonal shape. It would form into a glance panel that reflected the light of her pink mana in front around her, before slipping from underneath her, however instead of one there were two, that she willed into existence from the skilled control of her mana. One of the panels rushed across the ground before, placing it self in front of Mania, leaving both the sides exposed in order to give him room to cast more spells if he needed to, as he couldn't cast through the shield but at the very least could do so around it while being provided some form of protection by the glowing rays of mana that exerted themselves from it. Meanwhile the other octagonal mana panel would be stationed in front of Connor to protect him from harm.
“That was our Christmas Tree.” The tree escorts bellowed almost in unison, Aya cared not for their whining, truly if they wanted a new one she was sure they could get such though it probably wouldn't be as exuberant as this one. The job was done now after all, now all that was left was to escape hopefully unscathed. Aya glanced slightly at the fallen wagon, grateful for the warmth it shelled out, she had always enjoyed the smell of a wood burning fire.
Elemental Type: Glass Rank & Spell Type: Junior | Defense Creation Range & Speed: 25m | 10 m/s Mana Cost: 10 | 5 Stats Effected: +4 Durability Applicable Perks: Self-Repairing Description: Aya places her hands together clasping them as if about to pray. She begins to chant a prayer and in doing so focuses her mana, from the tip of her skull to the bottom of her feet, spreading it outward in a shroud of pink glowing mana in the shape of an octagonal glass panel. After which the mana will solidify into a reflective mirror-like glass panel before directing and reflecting the light from her mana. This almost feels and looks like a soothing beam of light that overtakes the octagonal panel of glass up to 3 meters. The ray of mana, in turn, protects the target. This can be cast around her or on target(s) directly. The targets are often in the center of the glass mirror itself, or they can be cast out in front of a target like a shield. By focusing Aya can make individual octagonal glass panels of reflective light as big as 3 meters. Following the ammo rules, Aya can create a number of additional octagonal panels based on her control stat to use on a target. This spell can protect against damage up to intermediate rank as per the clashing rules. This can be used to buff the caster themselves or allies according to the ammo rules. If Aya's defensive spell has taken damage but is still standing at the end of the post, it will naturally repair itself to full durability. This can only target a single spell a post. This can be used 3 times per cast of the spell.
Mania realized he was on his own and Connor had deviated from their scheme. The mercury rogue had no doubt that the mercurial, gold mage was deep in his own machinations. Luckily the wagon, caught fire, causing the horses to be stirred into a frenzied panic as they struggled to break free from the hot flames that blazed fiercely bright in the ebony nighttime. With the fire distracting two of the four remaining guards who went to release the poor trapped horses, the other two decided to still engage Mania. With a sigh Mania readied himself, but before he could decide on a course of action Aya had provided him with a protective barrier that blocked the water magic they fired at Mania.
Flashing a smile, Mania was glad that Aya was capable of improvising after taking care of her share. Connor on the other hand was sometimes quite the oaf, but he was intelligent within his own rights. Even if Mania couldn't often understand the methodology to his madness. Still, Mania was more than capable of dealing with these small fries. "Thanks!" The rogue shouted as he stepped to the side of the barrier and exchanged quick blows with his dagger against the guard's sword. Before the other could assist his buddy, Mania's golem would jump back into the fray intercepting him, before knocking the guard into a tree where he would be slumped limp and unconscious.
With the tree on fire and the horses in a panic as they trotted through the forest, pulling the blazing wagon along with the two other guards who tried to help, there was but a single guard. Mania and he were entangled in a clash of singing steel. Mania was no savant when it came to skill wielding a blade, though he was skilled at fancy tricks, he wasn't able to make the exchange definite. The guard was skilled at defensively parrying Mania's dagger, but this was no simple fight. Smiling Mania would lunge forward and sure enough, the attack was parried with the flat of the guard's sword. Mania would leap back and fling the silver forged dagger at the guard he swatted it out the air, plunging it into the soft, malleable earth. Waving at the guard as if to say goodbye, he would raise a wry brow in confusion before he'd be tackled by Mania's predator golem.
The golem would go to pound town until the guards grip upon his sword loosened as his eyes appeared lifeless. He should be simply unconscious Mania mused, but he would definitely be in a lot of pain whenever he awoke. Dispelling his golem Mania would rendevous with Aya and Connor amongst the knocked-out guards Mania had dealt with. Not bad he thought to himself as he counted the bodies. Mania had done quite a bit of work if he said so himself, he was clearly happy with his capabilities, though he was not happy with one Connor who apparently had not one shred of iota in regards to the scheme the trio hatched while waiting in ambush. "Good job Aya, I appreciate the assist!" Mania would hold his hand up, hoping she would slap it for a high five and a job well done. As for Connor Mania would regard the incorrigible bloke with a heavy sigh and sour disposition.
Had Mania not been able to handle all those guards things could have gone south quick. "What the hell man? What happened to the plan Connor?" Mania would say as he retrieved his silver dagger and shook his head. The yelling screams of the guards who were still off chasing the burning wagon and horses could still be heard in the not too far distance. A faint, holding light like a beacon in the night was still within view Mania noted. Hopefully, those two guards could put that fire out and possibly save the horses. They didn't deserve to burn alive. This made Mania think that perhaps they should have maybe set the horses free and not used that highly combustible fluid. They weren't paid to raze the forest to the ground after all, though Mania was wondering if such a thing happen could they request more from the Crime Boss Yohan? "Probably not...." Mania mused as he thought about how much of an overblown balloon of scrooge the man was.
Mania would belt the dagger before walking back to Aya and Connor.
"Well, moving on. I don't think I killed any of the guards, do you all want to tie up loose ends? If not we can head back to collect our rewards. That tree should be as good as ash right about now." Mania would state matter of factly as he lightly dusted himself off. Mania had simply knocked them out because one the mission didn't require him to kill the guards and two if he wasn't being paid to he would rather not bloody his hands and be on the hook for capital murder. Though as far as Mania knew he probably had a few murders associated with him due to some of his more violent colleagues preferring to erase any means of the law reporting back on them. Mania understood the ideology but still has never taken a life with his own hands, the rogue refused to start now unless he was pushed into doing so by circumstances.
Mania never had any qualms about murder. In fact, the rogue had seen his fair share since he was a lad, but never before had he been forced to commit the act himself. Call it luck or cowardice, but Mania didn't particularly care. He knew when the time called for him to finally have to stain his hands with blood, he would be more than up to the occasion, but for now, he didn't mind leaving the blokes alive. They were like him simply doing a job that they were paid to. Mania could understand that, he could even get behind a man having to make coin by whatever means they had. It was simply a matter of choice on how one went about making it. Growing up around robbery, murder, arson, bribery, and every other infraction against the laws of men that Mania could think of, it was a life he knew all too well. As such, he naturally gravitated towards doing such things because it was what he knew.
Burying his hands in his pockets, Mania would let Aya and Connor decide whether or not they wanted to leave the sleeping guards alive. It was their call now and in their hands. "Whatever you guys decide make it quick. I wanna get paid for this and get a drink. Connor, your definitely buying me a round tonight~" Mania would coo in his typical roguishly, charming voice as he fetched a cigarette from his pocket. Mania would light it and take a deep puff, pulling on it to really enjoy the flavor. Mania had expended much more energy than he had expected to and was really pining for this smoke. He was a man that happily fed his vices. Taking the path through the foliage, Mania would head back towards the town to get payment for Yohan.
Name of Spell: Hydrargyrum Hunter Element: Mercury Rank: Intermediate Size: 4 m Mana Cost: 16 | 8 Type of Golem: Predator Applicable Perks: Mana Conservationist, Puppet Master Description: Spell is activated by holding his left hand out with palms facing upwards. Liquid mercury pools from Mania's grimoire and shapes itself into a 4 m tall, faceless humanoid comprised purely of mercury. By speaking the spell's name and holding his left arm up Mania manipulates the liquid mercury, giving it form. This golem has long arms, is equipped with sharp claws, and has the ability to move at 18 m/s. Hydrargyrum Devourer is capable of dealing its spell rank in damage and able to sustain Intermediate damage before being destroyed. This golem cannot be used as a mode of transportation. 4 additional golems can be created. Reference
Type Power Durability Sensory Range Speed Health Predator 50(+3) 15(+3) 45(+3) 80 m 18 m/s Int
Aya nodded back to Mania and gave smile, her hood still placed over her horns, only allowing her face from her eyes down to show, granted she was careful not to allow any of the guards to see more than her mana usage, after all, she had still stuck to the plan and out of view, that coupled with her speed was one of the only reasons she was able to easily support Mania when the situation called for it. She reached out her hand to high-five Mania as well, her blood was pumping, and with the battle having ensued Aya felt the small burst of speed she had gotten in the heat of the moment fading. Though she had noticed that out of the three of them she was undoubtedly the fastest, a factoid of which she enjoyed. Although she supposed she had her "father" to thank for her speed, after all, he had taught her to read the flow of battle, adjust on the fly. It was because of this that the more Aya fought against an opponent the more she was better to read and anticipate the dangers that lay around her.
Thankfully, this battle had gone rather smoothly, and as it stood Mania was strong enough to take care of many of the knights on his own with his golems she wasn't sure what kind of metal was his specialty when it came to his magic but to her eyes, it looked like liquid metal. His golems were frightening to look at for most, a factor of which she enjoyed about the man as it meant it would easier catch enemies and targets off guard. The more Aya began to think about Mania the more she realized that this man could become a rather useful potential ally for her in the future.
However, she still had no idea what was going through Connor's mind, perhaps the man simply didn't like following plans, or perhaps he was touched in the head, who knows. Aya didn't care as long as they got the mission done and over with. The time had come for them to continue moving onward now but as she looked into the distance, only to still hear the screaming knights on the wagon that had been set ablaze, watching as the orange and red hue of light faded into the distance. Aya raised her hand to gently slap it against Mania's with a soft thump. She wasn't in the habit of touching people directly any more than deemed necessary but it seemed like the best way to get the rogue within her grasp. Any rogue that could dispatch magic knights with skill like that was a tool she'd love to keep within her back pocket.
"You're welcome," were the only words she said in response, as she stepped aside letting Mania continue to move forward as he regarded Connor, though when he spoke to the other rogue, Aya couldn't also help but want to know Connor's response. Perhaps it was simply because he wanted to, or maybe he knew Mania was capable of handling the situation on his own and instead wanted to help her. "I think we should head back to get our pay, if you both want to continue getting your hands dirty then it doesn't bother me any," Aya said with a soft smile, she began to walk ahead, stopping at a nearby tree waiting for the boys to make their decision. Regardless of what they decided, Aya wasn't willing to get her hands any dirtier than what they already were, she wanted to keep herself as lowkey as possible for as long as she could for the time being. Sometime later after the payment had been received...
Aya found herself sitting on the floorboards of an abandoned hut in the outskirts of Kikka, it was a simple meeting place, one she had decided to give to Mania and Connor after they received payment telling them to meet her there further within the night. Whether they had followed her directly or stopped for their drinks she hoped they'd come. If they didn't she'd simply rest there until the morning and leave at the first signs of daybreak.
If they had come, however, they would be treated to the sight of Aya, and the smell of food. She had picked up a bit of food from a vendor in Kikka, nothing more than a variety of meat, vegetables, and ale, but in hearty portions at least enough for three people. She sat on her legs as if praying and once they would walk through she'd greet them with a simple "Welcome," followed by a smile and a gesture to the food starting "help yourselves." After the duo had their fill if they desired such she'd began to speak, "First let me start by saying there are some things I'd like to come clean on." Her smile was still ever-present, her cloak still covered her horns and pink strands of her hair could be seen falling out of the cloak slightly. She leaned in closer and cupped her right hand to her mouth and whispered "I too am a member of your organization, Eclipse Raven that is..." she said in a cheerful yet hushed tone, followed by a sultry wink. She leaned back to her position "Allow me to reintroduce myself, my name Is Aya Von Shurke, a pleasure to meet you, and I look forward to working aside you both in the future." She reached out to clasp both of their hands in hers, and as she did a shimmer of pink mana would glow between her fingers. She let the mana harden into a glass object with rounded edges that resembled that of a simple pink token. "If you should ever desire my services, I am willing to be of use and support, simply have the organization reach out to me with that token and I shall come to your aid as swiftly as possible, for the right price that is." She said giving a tooth grin, before she stood, brushing herself off.
What came next she was visibly nervous about, she finished brushing herself off, before taking a deep breath. "I shall share with you both a secret and I do hope for your sake that you don't act rashly. Please realize this is due to a curse and not because of something more nefarious." She stated hoping that whatever came next they didn't jump the gun, thinking she was some form of a daemon. Either way, Aya knew that should a battle ensue she was fast enough to evade and escape their attacks, not to mention they would eventually have to brave the wrath of her father.
She removed her hood slowly, revealing her horns, and as she did she spoke. "Though I don't favor them and they have brought me nothing but misfortune, I feel this is a good way to establish trust, but do realize that your secrets whatever they may be, whenever they may come will always be safe with me as long as mine is with you. One day I hope to make a place safe for people like us, and until that day comes I will do what I must to achieve my goal. I do hope that you both can join me in this endeavor." She said, her tone still filled with joy and ever-present as she let the cloak drape slowly off her, revealing her usual Miko priestess outfit. She gave a small bow, and if any attack were to come her way she would attempt to dodge though she highly doubted such would occur. She was letting these two in on a lot of her secrets and there were only a few that knew of them.
She quickly placed her cloak back on herself, propping up her hood, Aya would make toward the door. Her smile would widen as she gave one last musing of a request: "Do keep in touch," and with that she took off, racing through the forest of Kikka as fast as she could, it was time to move to the next location, perhaps the Forsaken Region again, though she knew she would so miss the food in the Common Region.