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 Ardere asked Eto if he had any insight on this, the old man shook his head. He did not. “This could mean many things…” He stroked his beard as he looked at the tall structure. The answer could be anything really. [break][break] As Zaven kneeled however, recalling bad childhood memories, Eto inhales loudly as he sees the two doors at the end of the staircase open. “Oh my…but of course!" He did the same from where he stood. How exciting! As you look up, Blake, you see that the obsidian doors have started pulling open for you and the words are no longer visible...for you.
[break][break] The others still have the words glowing in front of them, but the doors are visibly pulling apart for everyone.
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Requirements for this part:
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This is and RP section to what just happened. The person (Forrest) who didn't get to roll gets to do their own reactions once seeing what Zaven and Ard did. Your post has to be 500 words minimum. Ard and Zaven can post after Forrest, and once you all post, I'll reveal the next section. [break][break]
Hint: Don't forget to kneel before you start climbing the staircase.
[attr="class","forresttext"] Riddles and the like, how troublesome indeed. Forrest couldn’t say he enjoyed them, but if it was all part of the grand adventure one should have supposed they were just another obstacle in the way. A challenge of the mind to overcome. [break][break] Forrest watched, taking note as either of the captains would banter about the message’s meaning. Perhaps it meant something so literal, like a bow, perhaps it meant something a bit deeper than that. Forrest wasn’t quite sure himself. [break][break] Golden eyes wandered to Eto, the old man who had so many answers, but none appeared at this point in time. He simply shrugged if anyone would have asked him further. He had his opinion still, a warning, maybe something more. [break][break] It was strange to think that a building could give them orders, Forrest wasn’t quite sure he was comfortable with dealing with a place that seemed magically alive in such a manner. Nonetheless, he would have let out a light chuckle at Ardere’s cursing, the frustrations of the Golden Dawn’s captain echoed in the canyon. Both of the Captains were rather, obvious in their struggle to understand what such vague words meant. [break][break] His mind was easy to wander. [break][break] Humility. Humbleness. The opposite of pride. The word was not unknown to him, yet, he wasn’t certain what it was supposed to mean to him. Pride. Feeling proud of something one had done, one was apart of, of oneself. Yet, he had nothing to feel such an appreciation for, not when his mind was so empty of facts about his own life. Again, his hands were fidgeting, again he drew himself quieted from the seemingly, the rest of the world. [break][break] Even when they had been wandering through the desert sands, he had never felt so lost before. [break][break] Words couldn’t express what he wanted to know. Sometimes, it felt was simply existing for the mere sake of doing so. Breathing, heart beating, it was a conscious affair he couldn’t actively stop. And yet another part of him wondered, if he didn’t have to, then why should he? [break][break] Was this the opportunity he could he didn’t know he was waiting for? To begin again, and leave it all behind? Would he even have wanted to have gone back? Should he have just lost himself to the desert? Would it have been easier than trying to act obedient, pretending that he was okay with the way things were? [break][break] Bitter thoughts. [break][break] But that was all his mind seemed to wander to as of late. [break][break] An action by the Shadowed Dawn was given a curious reaction. He knew what to do? What exactly was that? Golden eyes narrowed, studying the act of bowing, of kneeling before the shining, relic of a castle. Be humbled. Was that the correct answer? The right response? [break][break] The old man seemed to think so. Forrest supposed they had no other reasoning to think not. [break][break] Forrest nodded to the Captain of the Crimson Lions, the slight tilt of a head signaling that he was simply going to try the same. [break][break] Coming up to the entrance of the stairs, just before glowing words. Forrest kneeled as well, just as the doors to the mysterious palace would begin to open…
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POW
DUR
STA
CON
SEN
0
120
60
120
0
MANA SKIN
HEALTH
MANA POOL
MANA REGEN
grand + senior
grand
145/145
45 ic // 45 ooc
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Combat summary
[break] TL;DR Forrest is silently angst, then kneels like Zaven.
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] With the old man and Forrest joining him he gave a smile as he heard the doors finally finish opening as he rose up and decided to be the first to step up since he figured out the puzzle. He did look back at the group with a small chuckle; he flashed his trademark smile. ”Alright, if I die doing this...at least give my best to my squad and make sure that the box inside my desk gets delivered to the specific place listed upon it with my demise.” HE sighed before stepping on the steps that would lead up to the door just seemed as though they held a pressure that just beared down upon him. He winced, breathing heavily as he stepped up, the mana in the air was thick and felt old. He did not know exactly how to place it, but he was eager to find out what lay inside. Once he was at the top of the steps it felt easier to breathe as he looked back at the group. He was happy to not have been crushed by that pressure, but now three others still had to follow suit and join him at the apex. [break][break]
”Alright, let us get a move on...be careful on your way up...it is a different kind of feel.” He leaned against the temple wall as he waited for the group. Looking through his bag he found a small bag of nuts as he began to eat them one at a time, after canceling the giant shadow golem it was imperative that he restore his mana and stamina before continuing any further into this grand adventure that they had embarked with the old man. In his head Zaven was recounting the events of the previous night in his head still, he was about 85% sure he never got blackout drunk and slept with that woman...he was just a friendly shoulder to cry on right? He continued to think to himself as he found himself looking at Eto. The man was an enigma for sure, trading a family for discovery...it was a waste...a man is nothing without the woman he chose as his partner behind him and if he had a family...abandoning them for discovery was one of the most ridiculous things the Golden Dawn Captain could think of. [break][break]
His skin blistered and burned a little bit as he examined himself, the blood stained skin of the captain was not something he had ever gotten used to, but he knew that the blood had to be spilled in order to protect those that he cared for or to save his own life. He had too much to live for to fucking throw it away with these simple creatures. He knew that if he was to die by way of fighting with his bare hands...he would rather do it against an opponent worth finally giving his life to. Even then, he was going to take them with him. Still though, he had to wait for his group.
[attr="class","ardereescroll"]Of course it would be something as simple as kneeling. Ardere was the king of overthinking things these days, Chuckling to himself, he stood up for a moment as he watched Zaven and then Forrest kneel before the stairs. It was his turn. He was going to humble himself now, just like the disembodied words had asked. He had no idea what lay head of them, but the Captain was a man of his word. This was going to be one of the greatest adventures yet, if he had anything to say about it. The words were still appearing before him for a moment, yet the others seemed to move on. Nodding, the fire mage knelt down before the tower. With a flicker of flames, the words disappeared and the door at the top of the tower opened--the way was shown to them now. He was unsure if what he had done held, but he knew he was grateful to Zaven. The man who had just been mouthing off to the riddle actually managed to solve it. He was most certainly one of a kind, but that was why he was here after all. The Kasai could not do it alone. This was something he had to come to terms with over the past few months. But now that he had, he could do anything. [break][break] Beginning to walk up the stairs, he took a deep breath. Alright, let's go. I just hope that not every riddle requires us to kneel, otherwise my knees are gonna get sore. Adjusting his side pouch and taking a swig of water before sliding the bottle back into his bag, he peered into the doorway. Ardere had no idea what was in this tower, but the Ki was quite intriguing. Eto seemed interested as well, and he had some knowledge of the area. How far that would get them, he had no idea. But if he and his companions were meant to fill in the blanks then he planned on doing that. The Lion was confident that could make it to the end of whatever this is. But this was just the beginning now. They had quite a ways to go. Everyone stay close and watch each other's backs. We have no idea what to expect in here. He was at the tail end of the group, but the man made his way up nonetheless. He no longer heard the howling, but that did not mean danger was not lurking in the darkness still. He had a feeling they were in for quite a fight the further they got on their journey. While Ardere hoped to find something of himself here, he still hoped that they could fulfill Eto's wish. Zaven and Forrest albeit their distaste for the desert was quite clear, seemed determined themselves. A smile crossed his lips for a moment as he entered. This was it. There was no turning back now. He wasn't afraid. For the first time in some time, he wasn't afraid.
The adventurers step into a dark room, which lights up the moment the obsidian doors behind them close. Braziers, like the two outside pop and light up with wild hot red fire revealing that they are on an elevated bridge that leads to a circular platform in the center of the room. On the other side there are another pair of shut obsidian doors. [break][break] The platform is littered with small piles of stuff. There are gold pieces, large jewels, daggers, statues, paintings, bones, weapons that seem to glitter with powerful mana…
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Requirements for this part:
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When the party steps on the central platform, another set of words would be written in the air in front of them, stating “Present your offering.” [break][break] How the adventurers handle this can vary significantly and it is up to the DM’s discretion to decide whether the offering is worth it. The offering can be placed anywhere on the circular platform. It is open-ended.[break][break] Each adventurer must present something by placing it on the circular platform... [Minimum 500 word count]
[attr="class","forresttext"] It was simply how things went sometimes. He followed along, carefully, cautiously, certainly, the wood mage didn’t want to be at the wrong end of another mana beast. They had done, assumingly the correct thing before, as now the relic of a castle was open to them. [break][break] Magically lit up torches, walls and doors of dark obsidian, there was a lot about this place that did little to ease the mind. But that simply how adventures like these were. He was still questioning why exactly he had come along. He wasn’t that interested in treasure, or the grand thought of adventure in and of itself. [break][break] Though his idea of an ‘escape’ from his normal routine wasn’t exactly this. [break][break] It seemed as if the old man had little to say, except perhaps marvel at the ruins they entered. Forrest found little to be excited about, other than seeing dusty old walls. Eventually, the group came to a small platform, pilled with things. Treasures, gold, weapons, likely left behind by adventurers past. [break][break] “Present your offering.” [break][break] “Another one…” Forrest muttered under his breath, turning to see what the two Captains would make of this next supposed command. They had no choice but to listen to it, as given by the words at the entrance. But what offerings did they even have to give? [break][break] By the look of what was offered before them, fine pieces of jewelry and powerful weapons seemed to suffice. But what was to happen if they didn’t? Be forced to wait forever? Would only another path open once a sufficient offering was produced? [break][break] Forrest had to think about what he had on him, besides simply the clothes on his back, a canteen, and his grimoire that he could give. [break][break] Instinctively, a hand went to the pendant he wore around his neck. Feeling the unfamiliar cuts of the ruby gem, sparkling slightly in the light of the gold. [break][break] A dreaded feeling shadowed his mind. An offering, a treaty of peace to whatever dark thing controlled this realm of a ruin. Would exquisite jewelry properly suffice? Fingers trembled, before gripping hard at his necklace, the memento of the one he had once loved. [break][break] Even if such feelings were empty now, did he owe it to that faded memory to continue holding on to the past? [break][break] Wasn’t that what he was struggling with so much so already? [break][break] What reason did he have to hold on to a thing, that meant nothing to the person he was now? [break][break] But then, he looked to the Captain of the Lions, the Leader of their Pride. He wondered if the man even would have considered giving away such a once-precious thing that belonged to a former member of his squad. [break][break] Shame did darken the blond mage’s heart.
[break][break]He tucked the necklace under his cloak, then lifting his hand glowing with golden aura. [break][break] “I can’t say I know what to offer, but I can give something rather simple.” Focusing his magic on the platform itself, Forrest caused a small tree to grow, miniature in size, barely a foot tall. It bloomed beautifully, infused with his own mana, and yet the bright petals of the plant only covered up the slow withering he felt growing in his chest. [break][break] “Perhaps it wants something… from each of us.” The blond recalled that they all had to kneel at the entrance before being allowed inside. Perhaps this offering… worked the same way.
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POW
DUR
STA
CON
SEN
0
120
60
120
0
MANA SKIN
HEALTH
MANA POOL
MANA REGEN
grand + senior
grand
145/145
45 ic // 45 ooc
[break]
Combat summary
[break] TL;DR Forrest is a bit angsty, then grows a tree.
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] They all made it up the steps in one piece...it was a start. A very good one at that as he stood with the three other party members. The doors to the temple opened, sand fell from the ceiling and dust blew out...this place had most likely remained sealed for a while. The air Zaven breathed in seemed...tainted. It was not a malefic intent he felt, but just being in the presence of a great power. It made him wonder what Eto had truly been researching. It made him think about what he would do given the opportunity had the Shattering not changed it all for him. [break][break]
“Looks like we all lived...my death box comment...just forget about it will you all?” He said with a sheepish grin before they all made their way inside. It was pitch black, and it reminded him of so many dungeons he had been in over the course of his career. He was unafraid, but when those doors shut behind him...he felt a twinge of uncertainty in that moment as he swallowed hard. [break][break]
That next moment the braziers around the room lit with a bright flame that looked as though it was ancient yet new at the same time...preserved as it were. The large circular room had a pathway leading forward, nowhere else as Zaven watched Forrest step up and go to the small platform at the center of the room, on the platform, were piled of various trinkets and treasures...it was an odd scene for sure. The group including Ardere, Eto and himself would undoubtedly move forward as well, a quick mutter from Forrest before he glanced back as they made it to the center of the platform as well. It was very visible...the words floating in the air that is. He had to make an offering...He thought about what meant the most to him, it would not be some paltry offering that would get them to where they needed to go. So when he was asked what he would give up...he knew what it had to be. It was something he carried with him all the time, it was actually sewn into his captain’s mantle on a loop where it was in no danger of falling off. [break][break]
His engagement ring to Rosaria Kranjicar...a woman lost to the Shattering like many others...a woman that he was set to marry...It was time...for him to move past that and become something more. He reached to his mantle and ripped the ring off of the tassel loop. He was surprised not one of his close friends asked him about it, but then again it was probably invisible to them if they were not looking for it. With a sigh he dangled the ring before him, he looked to the members of his group, declaring his sacrifice. ”I sacrifice...a piece of my soul...my engagement ring to my former partner...a part that I lost when everything changed...never to return to me again.” He said with a sorrowful expression as he dropped the ring, it hit the platform with a resounding brass *ting* before clattering to a stop. He then sighed and looked to the others.
[attr="class","ardereescroll"]Ardere entered the obsidian-clad room. It was impressive. Lava plumes rippling down below, they were standing on what appeared to be an alter. What ritual would be required of them? The four mages traversed rugged terrain to get here, and now after finally reaching this temple they were required to follow the instructions of disembodied flaming text. Regardless, the Captain would do as it commanded. The temple was beautiful in a way, filled with liquid flame and intoxicating Ki. The alter itself was littered with gold and jewels as now the words had reappeared, demanding action from them once again. Present an offering. The Kasai muttered to himself, wondering what he had to give. The answer was actually simple, but he was unsure how much worth he had. He was not a material man, but he was very sentimental. He maintained a habit of hoarding keepsakes and trinkets from across his life. Rings, necklaces, and parchment were a few things that filled his cabinets. But he only kept one thing on his person these days; a ring. [break][break] So many had relinquished items and treasure from across their life. This thought made him ponder--how many had been accepted? Was every offering accepted or did some prove fruitless? It didn't matter. He only wielded one offering worth giving, but it pained him to part ways with it. The ring that Ardere bore on his right middle finger was not his, but Lysander's. It was something his former mentor had bestowed upon him shortly before his death. It was a ring that the Vermillion Captain before him held and his father before him. To say this was an heirloom would do it an injustice. This ring held the hopes and dreams of several Lion Captains, but that was not why he wanted to part with it. When the fire mage wielded this trinket, he felt a bit closer to his late mentor. The memories came flooding back, running around in the squad grounds and training in the woods. The two had spent a numerous amount of days together, and countless sleepless nights as well. Within the small ruby ring would dwell a bit of the soul of a man he considered to be his second father. To relinquish this was to carve a piece of his own soul out. This was all he had left to give. The last thing he had of his father was destroyed, and Silas' sword had been given to Lydia. This was his best offering. [break][break] Forrest offered up some of his own mana while Zaven seemingly offered something of serious value on his person. Ardere was the last. Standing before the circular platform, he held the ring out for a moment. Perhaps it was time to let go of one last thing. He had moved on from the deaths of his comrades but never quite given up carrying their hopes and dreams with him. Embedded in his back were thousands of arrows, wounds he carried from protecting and losing others. But what he cherished most, was the memories. I offer up my final tie to those who have passed beyond this world. You can have this memory. May it bring you as much joy as it has me. Placing the ring down with the other offerings using a bit of fire magic to send it, a smile plastered across his lips--Ardere stepped back for a moment. This was not a sad moment, but a happy one. This was progress. His strength was returning.
All offerings were presented…two rings, items of love, with memories attached, with high quality metals and stones that rested upon them…and a simple small tree of mana…It bloomed beautifully…Eto observed the group quietly as they parted with things that were of value to them and he wondered what he could present. He took off, what seemed to be an old silver watch, and also presented it on the ground. [break][break] “A family heirloom that symbolizes the passing of time…I believe it was crafted generations by hand... I found it in the desert many summers ago…”
[break][break] The party would feel a powerful magical presence above them as Ardere and Zaven would be able to barely be able to react… Something hit the ground in between the group, dealing senior damage to all members of the party, knocking them back, potentially off of the platform into the bubbling pits of lava bellow if they didn’t react.
[break][break] A hulking monster rose from the center of the platform…
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“Your offering…does not appease…gold, jewelry, names, swords…and from all of this, you gathered to present my lord with a plant?” The Minotaur’s voice was filled with anger and its eyes burned with hatred and fury for the one blond mage within the party. Their offering was not satisfactory. A loud huff left the throat of the monster, as he breathed fire out of his nostrils, ready to punish those that didn’t offer up enough. [break] [break]
Requirements for this part:
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1. Upon falling from the cieling, this giant minotaur deals a senior rank knockback spell which will hit everybody head on. Ardere has Ki and Zaven has high sensory, therefore they are capable of taking a reaction to this before it hits. Forrest and Eto do not have a reaction to this and will most likely be hit.[break] 2. Whoever is hit by this spell takes senior damage and is knocked off of the platform and plummeting towards the bubbling lava beneath.[break]
3. Forrest gets a reaction after Ardere and Zaven. [break] 4. Eto is plummeting towards the lava if the attack landing on him isn't blocked. [break] [break]
[attr="class","ardereescroll"]The offerings were made. Rings and heirlooms alike, they were offered up to whatever being ruled this place. Ardere normally would despair parting ways with his ring, but today he experienced hope. Only hope. Unfortunately, the presumed ruler of this place did not take a liking to Forrest's offering. They were greeted with anger and malice. The Captain had a bit of time to react when the strike came down, but he knew Forrest and Eto would not have the same luxury. So he took the attack. Senior ranked damage right into his mana skin, no blocking it. He did this for a reason; Vengeance. This was an ability not many mages possessed and the fire knight did not often get to use it. His power was drastically increased by this ability, but he was now plummeting down towards lava. The only thing he though of in the air was saving his friends. I've got you! He had to trust in Zaven to take care of himself for now. His goal was the others. [break][break] Scales began growing across Ardere's arms and legs, crimson red scales. Sprouting from his laterals were wings, dragon wings. His eyes transformed into a piercing yellow as his entire body metamorphosed into something completely different. Ryujin. This was his native tongue from Hino Country and it had turned him into a new creature. Completely encased in scales and claws jutting from where his nails were, he appeared entirely different. Swooping down to grab up both Forrest and Eto, he would attempt to save them. This spell he was utilizing was fast and he did not plan on failing. Don't worry, I've got you guys. Staring across the way at this menacing minotaur of fire and death, he was not afraid. This was it, the test of strength. He couldn't let his friends die, not this way. Flashes of Silas' death plagued his mind. Tears would have been brought to his eyes normally, but now there was only determination. Whatever this "guardian" was, he was going down. The Crimson King was making his appearance now. [break][break] Hinokami's Sword Dance! A sword of blazing sakura petals appeared behind Ardere, as blazing petal surrounded them. A dome was formed, which would heal both Forrest and Eto's wounds, as well as provide protection to them. Flying over to the edge of the bridge where they had come from, he placed them both down and left the dome there. Stay here, Eto. This will heal and protect you. Forrest, provide support if you can. I'm taking this guy down. Turning around with an angry look plastered across his face, the Crimson Lion Captain was going to fight. He left his allies in the dome, and cracked his dragon knuckles. Alright big guy. Let's do this.
Power +20 from Vengeance perk [break][break] Name of Spell: Crimson King: Ryujin[break] Elemental Type: Fire[break] Rank & Spell Type: Grand | Transformation (Transfigure - Transport) | Physical Reinforcement (Speed)[break] Range & Speed: Self | 60 m/s[break] Mana Cost: 40 (20)[break] Stats Effected: +20 m/s[break] Applicable Perks: Mana Conservationist, Predator's Mutation.[break] Description: The user quite literally transmutes their own body to grow wings that appear like those of a dragon, and burst into flames. The user's fingers also extend by 4 inches into claws with red scales that go up his arms/legs/torso and across his face, his feet being subject to the same claw growth as his hands. Ardere's eyes will even turn a piercing yellow, with vertical slit eyelids. The wings themselves are 50 inches. This spell's speed is further increased via the use of Physical Reinforcement magic, causes Ard's veins to pulse as magic flows through them. Ardere can transport others if he wishes, with a maximum of 5 people.[break][break] Name of Spell: Hinokami's Sword Dance[break] Elemental Type: Fire[break] Rank & Spell Type: Grand | Healing/Attack Creation[break] Range & Speed: 150 m initial - 80 m area | 75 m/s[break] Mana Cost: 40 (20)[break] Stats Effected: +12 power[break] Applicable Perks: Mana Conservationist, Battle Knight, Master Healer.[break] Description: Ardere summons a sword of sakura petals that is 4 meters tall anywhere within 150 m of himself, but when the sword is summoned it can take up to an 80 m area. This sword forms a dome made of connected swords and sakura petals around his intended allies, and begins to heal them. The more allies, the less potent the healing will be. But the dome itself provides protection, as anyone who touches it will instantly receive 3rd or 4th degree burns.
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] All the offerings were made, a sigh of relief came as Forest made his, a simple tree made from his magic. He felt the mana make the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end as he hissed, knowing something was coming for them in that moment. ”Shit!” He said as he felt the large mana descend, hearing the voice of a great being right before the impact hit and a shockwave would be generated. There was no way he could stop it, but all he knew to do was try, so for his reaction right before the spell hit him He entered his combative state...his azure eyes glowing as he cast his spell, hearing Ardere’s call. ”Abyssal Strike.” The Shadow Torso appeared before him, mimicking Zaven’s movement to cross his arms to defend himself. Taking the spell, the two should neutralize themselves before Zaven looked up at the big motherfucker and pointed at him. ”Go fuck yourself if you think that we did not sacrifice something meaning more to us than our very life. Whether it was a god damn trinket or a spell...they are all specific and special to us. Fuck this trial...and fuck you, you bull fuck! SHADOW ARMAMENT!” He called out before rushing the Minotaur, he knew if anyone could save the party...it was Ardere. He had to buy them time, so the Shadow of Dawn did what he does best...he gave it his all. [break][break]
Letting out a primal roar as his arms would be shrouded in shadow gauntlets as he would attempt to go for the weapon that the Minotaur was carrying, He did not take a look back to see if Ardere did the job or if everything had been for naught, but he was fully intending to stand his ground here in this moment...he would not be afraid of death...the man had died once already and now he was here...he would not let any of his friends sacrifice for him ever again. ”THIS IS FOR FOREST YOU BIG STEAK FUCKER!” He would yell out in a fit of rage, hoping to aggravate the creature before striking out using his close combat skills...the attack would be a quick one-two jab followed up with a standard kick to deliver [Senior] Rank Damage and a single [Intermediate] Rank of Damage if his blows connected.
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[attr="class","zavenstat2"]COMBAT SUMMARY
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[attr="class","zavenreescroll2"]
[break][break] TL;DR Used Abyssal Strike to protect against the attack in my reaction, and resolved to using Shadow Armament to attack back if possible finishing with a simple melee.
Eto was panting softly, seemingly nearly driven over the edge into eternal darkness as Ardere left him down upon the edge of the platform. He was unconscious. But alive. [break] [break]
Upon Ardere’s transformatory appearance, the large hulking creature would have a little smirk crossed his lips. A smirk of familiarity. His eyes shifted then to the black-haired mage who had managed to neutralize his attack with curiosity before he raised his large spikey mace, the bones around his belt jingling as he moved. He took on Zaven’s swings with his gauntlets, taking full senior damage from them, before swinging the weapon to meet Zaven’s foot, clashing against that attack and blocking it, still taking [junior] damage to his hands. [break] [break]
“What is important to you is not of importance to me. You are not the ones that matter here, my Master is.” The giant bovine explained, its furry eyebrows knitting together before it stepped back and tried to kick Zaven with a hoof for [intermediate] damage. “Your kind really hasn’t changed at all…it takes everything too personally.” The minotaur would then glance back at the two recovering members of the party on the side of platform and the transformed human that tried his best to be a dragon. How adorable. [break] [break]
“I’m supposed to be one of the more diplomatic ones of the court, but this is starting to become too fun to pass up.” The sentient creature said with a laugh as he swung his mace over his shoulder preparing to strike back if either of the men got too close. The mana would shift in the air as it poured into the monster’s large mace…a magical weapon of some kind… [break] [break]
“You stand before Duke Vael, the Dragon Slayer of the court of the Great Lord of this Temple.” He watched Ardere with a smirk, his dragon form seemingly almost triggering him to make a leap. His instinct for combat was triggered…and his weapon was ready. His hues then looked over to Zaven. Someone with a surprisingly fragile mentality, in the Minotaur’s mind. And then there was the other two, who had done nothing…perhaps the smartest of the four. [break] [break]
“You have entered our court, disrespected our Master with your offerings, and then have attacked me, his diplomatic ally without even giving me the time to prepare for a fair match?” His voice was quiet, this was more of a scolding than a mocking. [break] [break]
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Requirements for this part:
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It's your choice what to do. I'm not going to give you options. My one demand is that Forrest does a post. This is a warning for him. [break][break]
[attr="class","zavenreescroll"] Seeing the beast take the damage full on was intimidating as hell, but to hear his friend captain Ardere come up from behind him as well as Zaven flipped back towards the back of the platform and the entrance to the temple. The beast spoke about the importance of what was offered and that he believed the humans for being impulsive as usual while delivering a kick Zaven met the hoof with his shadow armament. The strength of the spell would certainly allow him to overpower the kick, though as this was going on he did not know that and was just fighting back to fight back at this point. [break][break]
Hearing the minotaur call himself the diplomat was funny...this bastards presence alone was intimidating and he fucking nearly knocked them all off the platform just by landing. Zaven spit on the ground as the best identified himself as Duke Vael and then shifted his gaze back over to Zaven, then to Ardere as well before telling them that they have disrespected his master and was giving an unfair fight as they did not give him time to prepare. [break][break]
”Well slayer of dragons, you might want to work on your entrance, putting two of my companions out for the count...including an old man...not the best way to come off as a diplomat. Ardere...do not attack further, for now at least I want to know so that everything seems fair…” Zaven would deactivate his shadow armament and walk in front of Ardere, and in between Duke Vael and his party at his back he would ask the beast with a look in his eyes...the time of the playful and aloof Zaven had passed…he felt a pain in his chest, the outline of his scar burned, it made him feel rage...this feeling...could it be...He needed to investigate this, but god dammit he was stuck in here with this beast...there was no way that this could be happening somewhere else...could it? ”Duke Vael...we are here to escort this man on a final journey, and of course to grow in our own right...If the offering of my friend was not enough, and our trespass has been deemed disrespectful. How can I appease your master? If that is not suitable that I alone make up for this farce, then we will fight once more and I will not stop till I take your horns as my trophies...what say you? Leave them out of this, and it is a conversation for us.” He would say, not letting Ardere have a say in this, a simple hand movement would direct the Crimson Lion captain to go back to the others while he took care of this issue. Hopefully this will turn out in their favor.
[attr="class","ardereescroll"]Ardere cocked an eyebrow. This minotaur was abrasive and impetuous to say the least. The Crimson King nearly lost two comrades today, and that was something he would not stand for. Flames surging around his draconic form, the mage stared down the beast with wickedly raging eyes. There was rage coursing through his veins. Every muscle in his body was screaming for a fight, but he resisted for now. His muscles were quite literally pulsing with anger, the scales spurting from his skin began to flutter and shimmer. The Dragon Slayer. While he was unsure how accurate of a title this was, the Captain remained weary for now. Perhaps this was Zaven's moment, not his. Even though every fiber of his being urged him to fight, the Kasai yielded. Alright old friend, but if he aims for a fight, kick his ass. Piercing red eyes fixed on the minotaur, his wings retracted for a moment. There was a comrade to check up on. [break][break] Shuffling towards the sword sphere of his own creation, the mage crouched down to check on his elderly companion and his old friend. This was a wonderfully powerful healing spell, having healed his wounds in such a short time. Unfortunately the old man had fallen unconscious nonetheless. Ardere was unsure what he would have done had the old man passed on from this world. No guardian of any temple could withstand the wrath that would ensue. There was still a deep rage buried inside of him, just below the surface of his pale skin. Eto, my friend. I don't know if you can hear me, but hang in there. This shield should take care of all of your wounds. Forrest, are you alright? Turning to the blonde mage, concerned for his well-being he maintained the healing spell for now. This sword dance also provided a powerful defense that not many mages could pierce. [break][break] Turning back towards Zaven and the Minotaur, Ardere inhaled sharply. Concern washed over him. The intentions of this minotaur were unclear. Was he goading a fight, or just a brash 'diplomat'? He was unsure, but if it was a fight he wanted then a fight he would get. If the Golden Dawn Captain did not reduce him to dust, then the Crimson King was sure to turn him to cinders. While the Crimson Lion was far more diplomatic than his predecessors, he did not take attacking innocents lightly. This 'court member' was walking on thin ice--he just didn't know it yet.
[attr="class","forresttext"] Well, how was he supposed to know that the gods of some undefined region didn’t like trees? Maybe being stuck in the middle of the desert had just made him bitter. Forrest knew too well of that. [break][break] Maybe he was angry. Maybe he’d had enough of adventures, or being covered in blood and sand and dirt, and having to listen to everyone else’s opinion of what he had to do or what he should do. [break][break] He’d tried to be obedient, to follow along and be the good enough support that he was supposed to be. And well, look what happened when he tried to voice out his own thoughts? [break][break] It only ended in disaster. He should’ve just stayed quiet. [break][break] The rush of things that had happened, he couldn’t very well process in such a short amount of time. What was he supposed to do, other than make an attempt to cover himself and Eto? Spells cast, armaments made, good enough. Just good enough. [break][break] ”Arma Medeor.” [break][break] Golden aura surrounded his skin, turning hard to wooden bark. Fists curled tightly, the frustration of something building like a headache in his skull. [break][break] And no, he didn’t appreciate the tirade of curses that the Golden Dawn Captain somehow thought was related to negotiating. He supposed if everything didn’t result in violence there was no reason for either Captain to be as strong as they were. He supposed they were prepared enough. They’d done their best, only receiving the worst possible result. [break][break] But what about him? [break][break] But had he really put forth, his own best effort? Despite what the monster was saying now, would his own small piece of jewelry really have made a difference? [break][break] The wood mage staggered, swept up by the grip of his Lion’s Captain. He turned away, still trying to bury resentful thoughts that plagued his mind. Not his fault, not anyone’s fault, really. Everyone’s fault, exactly. They’d come here ignorant, if they continued to act oblivious, they’d wouldn’t leave here at all. [break][break] “I’m fine.” He said quietly, but words still came much harsher than he intended. Shaken, but fine, physically fine, somehow not hurt. He could stand on his own, he could take care of himself, he could silence the feelings burdening his chest. [break][break] He was fine. [break][break] “Sorry. I mean, yes. I-I’m alright.” A smaller sigh accompanied his quick words of apology. [break][break] Maybe he was just tired. [break][break] Turning to the old man instead, curiously wondering if he had anything to do with such a set-up. He still thought the senior was turning senile, but he couldn’t say anything for certain. [break][break] He stood up straighter now, his body only trembling slightly from the sudden movements. He would be fine, he would have to be, or really, he wouldn’t be leaving here at all. He held up a hand, steadying himself as he decided to speak up on his own. He could prove that he could speak up for himself, couldn’t he? Eyes had narrowed when the Captain of the Dawn had shouted his name. He didn’t need anyone speaking up for him, when he was exactly capable of doing so himself. [break][break] “If you find fault with our offerings, then tell us what you desire.” He addressed the beast directly, not caring if his words sounded too direct. Just get it on, just get it over with, just make it so it wasn't his fault. [break][break] And if it was, then let him take the blame. [break][break] "We came here ignorant but neither was there specific guideline on how we were supposed to have proceeded." The twinge of annoyance was hidden under a layer of forced calm. But wasn’t this how adventures were supposed to proceed? With riddles and vague hints, and if taken the wrong way, led down a path of doom and destruction? How awfully convoluted. But he didn’t desire a test of character, some off-handed way to prove his strength to yet another judge. [break][break] “We only can offer so much ourselves, but our desire it to progress further for the sake of yes, this elder. We already had to be humbled in order to make it this far, but your master and yourself and your preferences were unknown to us.” [break][break] So tell us now, what in the all the gods’ names do you want?
Name of Spell: Arbor Arma Medeor [break] Elemental Type: Wood [break] Rank & Spell Type: Senior | Healing | Defense [break] Range & Speed: 80 m | 40 m/s [break] Mana Cost: 30 | 15 [break] Stats Effected: +6 Power [Single Target] [break] Applicable Perks:
Self Repairing
Archangel’s Blessing
Healing Specialist
Description: Forrest causes a small tree to appear and grow on a lower back of a target in visible range. The tree’s branches will spread and enveloped a target, covering their arms and limbs but not hindering their movement. The branches will glow subtly with healing light, healing a target of up to [Senior Rank] damage, though it requires a full post for full recovery effect. Furthermore, a target will feel invigorated with a [Power] stat boost. Additionally, the tree bark ‘armor’ will act like a magical defensive armor for the target, protecting them like a [Senior] Defense spell as long as they remain in Forrest’s range and Forrest sustains the spell.
Can heal wounds of [Senior] damage, heavy bruises, broken bones, 2nd degree burns, poisons & toxins that have spread through half the body.
Forrest can create another set of armor per 50 [Control]
Due to [Healing Specialist], allies will recover a +15 mana.
Due to the [Archangel’s Blessing] Perk, if multiple allies are healed, then the potency of this spell is not lost.
Due to the [Self Repairing] perk, if the tree has taken damage but is still standing at the end of the post it is cast, it will naturally repair itself up to 3 times per a cast of this spell.
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