Guild Ties Role-Play

(ATTN: INFINITY EDGE GROUP B, Ri Altenas, DUSK)
[Collab with Juliet]

The walls and fort were something to look at. There was no telling just how much money it would take to build something like this. He had no way to gauge the value of this. It was impressive, but it made him wonder on whose backs it had been built. The hedges though, those he could truly appreciate.

When Xiax watched July and Ham finish talking, she gave him a Wink. He smiled back, shrugged and nodded his head towards the fort. Then he watched her as she disappeared into the fort.

He could only worry that she'd be unable to follow her brother's wishes. Ham would always look at her with the eyes of a brother, hoping for the best of her. However Xiax remembered their talks about this place... Slavers and Rapists, these people did not deserve to be called simple bandits. The look in July's eyes wasn't one Xiax liked to recall. Her vehement hatred of the man inside; what Xiax would guess could be put as an archenemy or nemesis; that Xiax could understand. Even Xiax didn't want this place to be left standing at the end after the things she had told him.

Ham was going to wait till she got back to make a plan. Xiax just waited for it to fall apart. If it did, he wouldn't have much time to talk with Ham. There was a very good chance that of this lot, Xiax wouldn't make it back out. However it seemed that Ham had something he wanted to talk about, maybe he'd thought of something for him to do to contribute.

"Sure. Did you come up with something for me to do?"

Ham shook his head. "No, no. Nothing like that. I was hoping we could talk about what happened a few days ago. With the curse." He put his hands behind his back, straightening his posture. "That is, if you don't mind, of course."

His posture didn't look like he was about to give Xiax a lecture, at least that's what Xiax chose to perceive it as. Although July hadn't exactly nagged him into talking with Ham but she hadn't chose to let the topic rest either. "Yeah, it's probably the best time if there ever was a time for this kind of thing." Xiax had been a little let down that Ham hadn't come up with anything. They called him 'Ham the Plan', he'd kinda been hoping that July was right that he'd come up with something. "Do or Die right?" Xiax nodded towards the fort, "I've thought about it, and yeah you were right: I overreacted."

Ham blinked, obviously a tad surprised that Xiax had opened with an admittance of his own shortcoming. Not to say he didn't think Xiax the type to admit he was wrong; just that admittances of guilt generally came later in these conversations. Generally.

"While I appreciate you acknowledging that, truly, that's not the reason I wanted to talk. I realize I can't, and never did, lay the blame for the situation on you," Ham decided to take a seat, knowing his habit of nervous pacing could get people a bit on edge. He gestured for Xiax to join him, making sure they were facing the fort so if any smoke signals were sent, or corpses were flung over the wall, they'd see them. "I...admit my shortcomings; and I feel bad that our first mission together had to bring one to light. I was...harsh. Too harsh. I forget that you aren't July or Claire, that you haven't been trained for these situations. I didn't take into account that my stance towards you, my lecture was against someone who until a couple months ago never had to deal with being in a team, or a situation where they would have to rely on their team- and while I generally stand by what I said, I am sorry for how harsh I was, Xiax. I am sorry that made you feel like no one was there for you, I am sorry that I failed you in that way as your group leader, and as your fellow guild member." He reluctantly kept the word 'friend' off his lips. Xiax hadn't talked to him in days, and he was uncertain as to how his actions had affected their relationship.


Well if July hadn't passed the 'Infinity Edge Official Motivational Speech' class, Ham must have aced the damn thing. "Well aren't you a wordy bastard."Xiax said chuckling and shaking his head as he sat next to the said wordy bastard. "I've, more July really, has made me think about it. You've got great family. That's the thing though, I'm not used to it." Xiax tapped his guild tattoo. "I've lived longer alone, outcast... homeless than many of your, my new family. Time, that's what it'll take." He tipped his head towards the fort and shrugged. "Assuming I survive today, there will be more of it." That saying about time healing all wounds wasn't always true, but it wasn't a load of bullshit either. "I didn't like hearing it, but you were right. Holding it back? That's not what friends do, or teammates if you prefer." he glanced over at Ham at that last bit. In the end he'd let Ham choose, call it a perk of being in charge.

Ham perked up, a smile coming to his face at the word 'friend'; and maybe a bit because of the 'wordy bastard' jab that he couldn't deny. "Well, Xiax, I know your circumstances are different than many I've worked with before. I won't say I'll understand exactly what you've been through, or understand your actions, initially, all I want is for you to give me a chance to try. Take all the time you need, I'm not here to rush you, to judge you. Everyone in the edge has a past, what matters in the end is that they're our family now- and you're right, you're our family now. And though you're not used to working in a group, I'm asking you to trust me, or at least give me a chance to earn that trust." His face grew somber for a moment. "I know we didn't necessarily get off on the right foot the other day, I make no excuse for my harshness, as you make no excuse for your actions- My job here is to keep everyone alive, and I promise you Xiax, no matter what happens in that fort, I will not let you die in there. You will survive today." His expression went back to its more relaxed state after a moment as he paused, thinking of what to say next.

"I was raised in a mansion, in a far off country, your circumstances and mine are as different as they come- If you see me being too....'Ham', as my sister would call it, just tell me. If I do something that hurts you, tell me. If you feel the need to question a course of action I've taken, do so. I'm not perfect, none of us are. Beyond being your guild mate, Xiax, I am your friend; and friends can tell each other when their heads are planted a bit far up their asses." He smiled at that; might have brought a tear to July's eye if she hard him say that. Not like she ever would.


Xiax sighed and rolled his eyes as he conceded, "Alright alright."

"Couldn't you have just said ok?" He looked up at the fort while sitting in it's shadow like a man with one less weight on his shoulders. "We're too old for this shit." All this talk was probably just tempting fate, like somehow he'd handed the hammer and nails to his own coffin to Death. Though Ham promised that somehow Xiax would live, and like July kept telling him: Ham deserved the benefit of the doubt. Maybe everything would go alright, but July was in there alone, and she had a vendetta with Oizys Moirai. How long had it been since she went in?

Ham observed Xiax's survey of the fort, furrowing his eyebrows slightly at his words, a small smirk coming to his face. 'We're too old for this shit', well, he wasn't exactly wrong. "Ask my sister, 'okay' is never enough for me. I'm a wordy bastard, you said it yourself." A grin briefly flickered over his face, as he decided to take a note from July's book. What are friends if they don't fuck with each other? Shit friends, that's what. "Xiax, I actually have a confession to make to you, now that she's not here." He briefly considered thanking his time at court for his and his sisters flagrant talent for lying. "I'm old, as you've said. That fact eludes exactly no one. July she..." He paused for a moment, trying to add emphasis to his situation. "You can't tell her this, though, I suppose she might already know. She was always clever." He looked over to his companion, holding his words so they held maximum wait. "July is...not my sister. She's my daughter. Which, given the gap in our ages, should come as a surprise to exactly no one. But, it's something I've held fast to, even before we left our birth place."

'Nailed it, Ham.'

He looked away from the fort as Ham confided in him. Well he might be old enough to be her father, but it didn't seem like they had that sort of relationship. "It isn't exactly impossible. The only thing bugging me is: Why? What does that serve?" That didn't sound like any kind of thing that a Father would do.

Ham shrugged. "Figured she'd be better off living her life as a rebellious noblewoman than a bastard. I had her when I was rather young, stupid teenage noble ripping his way through life. When one of the women I'd slept with came to me with the child, I sobered up, realized I needed to be responsible for the first time in my stupid life. I didn't want to make her life with the realization that she came into the world a mistake, so I let her believe I was her brother and my parents were her parents. Of course, this wasn't always easy with the age gap and all that, but luckily in Karnaca it's a common thing for siblings to have rather large age gaps." He shook his head. "I'm sure you've noticed I'm a bit more....fatherly towards July than most siblings are, though I do try to play the part of her brother." He shifted awkwardly. "Part of the reason I'm such a by the book prick now."

Well part of that made sense, but Xiax was sure that July wouldn't enjoy the fact that Ham had been hiding this from her. "This is gonna bite you in the ass. That's all I'm gonna say. You think she's alright in there?" He still regretted not touching her with Infuse and temporarly removing her demons before she went in there. There was no way to know if that would have helped but Xiax having briefly tasted the backlash of July's power was more worried how bad her demons might get in a place like that. Then again touching her might have made him into a screaming idiot and that would have blown there cover. Maybe if I gagged myself before it.


To be continued... dun dun duh.

(A Continuation Of The Collab Between Methos and I)

Ham shook his head, a small snort escaping his nose. "She's been in there for less than ten minutes. I'm sure she's fine- I know July. If anything had gone wrong, we'd have heard about it. Body parts would have been raining from the ramparts by now." Despite his words, he peered up, just in case he spotted blood smearing down the bleached walls.

Ham probably knew best when it came to his sister and on how long it might take. Sometimes Xiax had spent hours trying to figure out areas that would be favorable to beg. It took a considerable time to find a suitable place, people didn't tend to like giving away their money. At times it was almost crazy to watch people offer him what they considered change. Hard earned money had a high intrinsic value to people like Xiax, however people didn't always place the same value on things.

He didn't voice his thoughts regarding how easy it would be for something to go wrong and for them not to hear it. Past experiences put a lot of value to that negative thinking, but Xiax didn't know just how skilled July was. She had talked about it some, but with July it could be hard to know how much of it was talk, she did like to brag a bit. Rather than voice any of that he asked a different question, "So how exactly are we getting in? If I was thinking about it earlier I could have made rope."

"July's checking viable entrances and exit points as we speak. Usually sewage lines and refuse shafts are ideal points of entry, as they're not heavily guarded. If it were just me and July we could easily break in over the walls, but you, Claire and Zero don't have any mobility magic, and a tragic lack of yes, rope." Ham pointed at the wall. "The key is entering in a way that doesn't tip off the whole fort we're here, and allows us a safe extraction point for any slaves or hostages."

"But, depending on your familiarity with missions such as this- I might just be stating the obvious." He had no idea if they had trained Xiax for field work. He doubted it. But he wasn't keen on sounding like a pretentious ass.

"Have you ever had to beg covered in sewage? Its impossible." It wasn't exactly difficult to figure that one out. "Plus I've had too many friends drown when it floods to want to spend a night in one. Though I think the craziest thing I ever unblocked was when I pulled a cow out once." It was suprising how larger cities would hire in the homeless to go diving into sewers to keep them flowing. "Maybe she'll find some rope." Xiax wished hopefully.

Ham managed to restrain his face from shifting into mild horror, his expression remaining unchanged except for a slight quirk of the eyebrows to show he was listening. "I would offer my sympathies that you've had to undure such...hardships. Though I suspect you do not need or want them." Well, there goes his 'smuggle everyone in through the sewage system' plan. "Both July and I have mucked our way through many a sewage drain, provided it was large enough. July was the one who came up with the plan of entry, originally. She's found some...creative ways to enter buildings to get her mark." By creative I mean mainly horrifying and occasionally disgusting.

"She could always pull you up to the ramparts. I'm assuming with her grapple you'd be able to avoid the sewage drain should it become an option."

"Doesn't really bother me, but its not exactly something I spend much effort remembering. Though I think I speak for everyone when I say that they probably would thank you if they don't have to soaked to their shivies with shit and piss. Plus the smell, nuff said." Xiax was pretty sure everyone wanted to avoid that if possible.

"Now that you mention it, they could have a flood gate or something if there is a river near by." Xiax wasn't really familiar with this place or the geography around it. "Then again they might just have a couple wells." Struck by the sudden idea Xiax snapped his fingers, "July could always steal the rope if they have a well."

Ham nodded. "I'm sure July will look for all possibile entry points. Storm drains, rope, any windows or openings in the wall. She's very thorough." At least that's what she should be doing. Ham usually had confidence in his sisters focus- but he knew she was out for blood when it came to this fort.

There was a slight pause. Where was he supposed to go from- 'Oh I pulled my friends dead bodies out of the sewage system of the town in which you live- Which you've never had to think of. You rich bastard.'? "I notice you and July getting along rather well." 'Yes Ham, talk about living people. Excellent. July's not dead. Hopefully.. "I must say, I'm glad. She isn't the sort to...make friends..easily." 'Or at all.

Xiax looked over at Ham, "This isn't one of those concerned father questions is it? I can assure you she's too young for my tastes."

Ham couldn't supress the laugh that rose from his throat. "Oh, no," He responded as the laughter subsided. "No, no. Nothing like that. July's a big girl, she can take care of herself. If I spent my time worrying about who she slept with or who she was interested in, I'd have more grey hairs than I already do. Don't worry, it's a simple observation, nothing more."

Xiax shot a cautious glance up to the wall as Ham gave a short quiet laugh. "Ah, right then. I don't really see how she'd....." He was going to say that he couldn't see July having problems making friends but he had other thoughts. While it was true that she could easily be the life of the party it wasn't that people wouldn't try to become her friend it was July and her magic that darkened her world. "No you're right, I understand." Xiax's face darkened as he remembered his experience with July's inner demons when he'd uncontrolably Infused her. With his right hand he started to drum his fingers on his leg, the beat broken by the silence of a missing digit.

Ham noticed Xiax darken; remembering what July had told him about the incident at the guild hall, he decided to remain silent.

He realized he wasn't like July, he wasn't the best at keeping up conversations with those he didn't know. What was the best course of action he could take? They'd reconciled, talking should have been easy. But it seemed with every foray he made into conversation it was- 'dead friends in sewers' or 'yeah I know about your sisters deep and troubling history of mental trauma thanks to her magic, witnessed it first hand, how's that for a friendship kickstarter'? Still, he was grateful to the man. July was...friendly, but she generally kept people at an arms length. Even him, sometimes. Between her line of work, and the constant 'fingertips on her brain', as she'd called it, she never made it a point to try to befriend many people. The only other one he'd seen was Sylmeria, and she generally wasn't fond of July's 'work'.

Then again, Xiax was yet to witness July in action- it was easy to say you could stomach something if you didn't have to view it up close.

The lopsided thrum of Xiax's fingers was all to mask the silence for a few moments. Normally silence was...comfortable for him. Safe. Now? It was awkward. He found himself in Xiax's position, wondering when his sister would return from the forts high walls and free him from this fresh hell.

"So," He unfortunately decided to break the brief silence. "I know this mission will not involve much combat, yet, I still wish to know- are you capable of defending yourself if worse comes to worse. 'Worse' being, 'July decides to seek her bloody vindication against the people inside this fort and sets off ten different alarms and leaves us to the wolves'?"

Xiax's fingers stopped their lopsided drumming as Ham speaking next to him diverted his attention. Shaking lose the ghosts from his thoughts he looked over at Ham to respond. "Frankly? No." This was delivered while looking Ham straight in the eyes. "I used to think so, but no, not if what July said is true." In the two months before joining when he'd been taken in, the Edge had destroyed that illusion of strength that Xiax had built up over the years. "If I get lucky and they are idiots I might stand a chance, but I'd still have to touch them." That there was the problem, it was like tossing the dice and not knowing if the pips would end up on a roll that would kill you. "They'll be alert, ready to fight and I won't have anywhere to hide. Anyone I lay hands on could end up triggering my power. If they do, I've helped them and I'll be the first victim they go after."

Ham nodded. He was sure Xiax had at least known how to defend himself if what he'd heart about him was true- but there was a difference between defending yourself from pickpockets and then defending yourself against magic users and armed bandits. Either way, it wasn't a large concern. He was more than capable of being Xiax's bodyguard for the mission, though he wouldn't actually say that out loud.

"Xiax, don't get ahead of yourself." This guy really was a basket full of kittens, wasn't he? "Stick close to me, and you'll be fine. I'll have your back, and I've been doing this for much longer than they have, and I'm confident that I'm much better at it."

"I've put a lot o thought into this, I'm not belittling myself." Xiax said confidently. "Anyone we meet inside, anyone we help, if any one of them triggers my power and it turns me into a vegatable, then I'm useless to you. If you think you can prevent that from happening then you have far more confidence then healthy. I could kill someone if it came down to it, but can you honestly tell me that I'm better off not using my power on everyone in our group and staying hidden then going in and risk becoming extra baggage? Where there is a chance that they figure out what my power does and they take me and use me in the same way against you? If I could control my power then this wouldn't be a problem, but as a leader can you honestly risk it?"

"As have I, Xiax. The moment you were put into my group I took a measure of your abilities, your weaknesses, your strengths; just like with Claire, Zero- even July. Trust me, Xiax. You're less of a burden than you think. I do not put my group at risk, and I know what should worst come to worse, I can handle it- and rectify it. I earned the rank that I have, and while I am honored and humbled to have it, realize that I have it for very good reasons." He smiled reassuringly at his companion. "No one will get to you my friend; you'll make it out of this with your body and mind in one piece."

"If you honestly believe that, which I think you do, then I think you're crazier than July and that's saying something." Xiax sighed and glanced back towards the fort trying to make up his mind. "You're absolutely sure?"

Ham nodded. "Crazy can be genius, and I'm positive."

Xiax sighed, this was like the third time or more than Ham had said so. Ilyana had placed him in Ham's group for a reason, and even though Xiax had doubts he would conceed. "I'll place my trust in you, you wordy bastard. Would it have even hurt you to just say 'yes'? It would have been more convincing." His eyes shifted from Ham back to the fort. Please, just take a vacation today and forget about the crazy man tempting fate? Please Death? Xiax prayed.

[ATTN: GROUP B]
RAE ALTENAS	9:00PM

Xiax watched as July shifted the coil of rope to her shoulder before making that claw like motion to user her magic: Void reach; to pull herself up to the window with a shadowlike arm. At least that one didn't seem to harm her like her other power at least not that Xiax had learned from Infuse. "It's been a while." Xiax muttered quietly remembering the days spent climbing the rigging on fishing boats. His hands and body however didn't forget it at all and he quickly pulled himself up the wall and climbed into the window. Once inside he scanned the room, first noticing the guard slumbed over a desk.... probably dead. Then he noticed that July had been holding the rope while he climbed up, pretty impressive, I'm not exactly light.

"Here, let me. You can pull them in and watch the door." Xiax said as he took the rope from July, quickly make a slip knot after looping the rope around his waist and arm for better purchase. "All set, signal who ever is next." Xiax braced himself and prepared to hold the rope for the rest of his team to climb up. In the dark his eyes briefly dimmed before glowing more intensely.

Claire took hold of the rope. She tugged on it to make sure it was set and then began to climb the outside walls of the fortress. She was no longer making any clanking noise as she didn't have her armor. This climbing didn't seem so bad. Finding places to hold onto on the ledges were pretty simple.  She  Finally entered the room. "Thanks guys for the help.

July handed Xiax the rope, hell, he offered- she was fine with him being the one to anchor Ham's heavy ass rather than her. She noted how...profficient he seemed to be with rope. She figured fishing- boats, probably learned how to tie a decent knot somewhere along the way.

She noted his eyes dimming, then glowing in a way that went above their usual zombie glow. She brushed it off- after all, he didn't seem to be screaming. Gestured for Claire to come up, then pulled her through the window; doing the same with Zero, and then gesturing for her brother- making sure none of them touched Xiax on an accidental stumble.

Ham made sure Zero went up before him, and quickly climbed the rope after his sister gestured him to follow. He entered the room in a crouch, his steps and landing silent. He glared briefly at what he could only assume was a dead body. His eyes flickered to his sister. "Thank you July, Xiax." His voice was hushed. "Now, we know the plan?" He glanced to his sister. "Take point. Xiax, stay by me."

Xiax nodded to acknowledge Claire when she had come up through the window, then held the rope till Ham brought up the rear. When Ham was up and in, Xiax started to quickly from years of practice coil pull the rope up and roll it into a neat coil around his hand and elbow before using the last bit to tie it closed in the middle so it wouldn't spill everywhere when he let go.

"Will do." Xiax said making sure Ham knew he had heard, while reaching behind his back to quickly stow the rope away in his pack. It's perfectly good rope. Xiax thought while looking at anyone who shot him a questioning glance. Now all I have to do is follow Ham, AND July, ohh AND not die.

Claire nodded her head. "Got it. anytime we are ready."  she said.   She is crouching down as to not be seen.

Ham briefly observed Xiax coiling up the rope. Practical; and considering he lacked the mobility magic of him and July, useful for the task at hand. He took a moment to survey the room they were currently in; it looked to be not a guard post, but an office. The desk the bandit was currently slumped over at was riddled with papers, reciepts. Some were written in the common tongue of the island, but the rest, Karnacan. Ham took a brief moment to stand, looking down at the all too familiar scrawls of his mother tongue.

'Female. Young. Long fingers. Strong shoulders. 1,000 gold pieces.'

'Male. Middle aged. Strong bodied. Hard of hearing. 600 gold pieces.'

People, that's what these reciepts were for. People. Ham glared down at the dead body slumped at the desk, wanting to spit on the sods corpse. However July had killed him, it had been too merciful a fate. He looked at the books lining the shelves in the room. Probably full of reciepts like these.

It made him sick.

'My sister should have burned you all when she had the chance.' Ham seldom condoned or enjoyed his sisters silent brand of 'justice'; but these scumbags deserved what they got. July was out for blood, and Ham wasn't keen to stop her. He glanced back at a tall, sturdily build closet- shut tightly. He was sure another of July's kills laid inside. But he wasn't going to pry. She was a professional; though the 'honor' of her profession was debatable.

The fine work and finishings of the room would have read 'elegant' in the right setting- but here, it seemed garish. Like people playing at wealth, scalping it, and wearing it like an ill fitting skin. Karnacan bandits, all right, keen to play criminal on the mainland. Yet they played the part a bit too well.

He crouched again, jerking his head for his sister to take point and lead them from the room. He took his position closer to Xiax; if anything was going to touch him, it would have to go through him first.

July already knew what the reciepts said; she'd read them herself. She knew who the hell these people were- all these pamphlets did for her and Ham were stoke the flames of an already burning resentment. Before she took point, she plucked out the same long knife she had kept under her pillow at camp; she didn't know if Xiax was armed or not- and hey, it was probably better than anything he might have armed himself with anyway. She offered out the handle to him, holding in carefully by the blade. Once he took it she took the lead, signaling for everyone to remain very, very quiet.

She led them in silent steps through the coridoor which seemed it might be more suited to be in a villa than a fort. The fine stonework and patterned tile lead through to metal latticework which would have given them a view of the courtyard. Shelves and scalped statues offered cover if anyone were to come by- but the styles seemed disjointed, mismatched- fitting of pirates, but doing no favors to the decor. July pulled out her collapsable blade, unfurling it within her hands with a hushed 'shing'. She didn't hold it like a sword, but a dagger, ready to lurch into action with a quick, well timed cut.

She led the group away from the balcony, down another, narrow coridoor. In the shadows they could see a lone figure surveying the balcony, talking down to another person out of sight in a foreign tongue. It was elegant, rolling off their lips- though the harshness of their tone added an uneccessary edge. The lone figure was dressed in a fine overcoat, velvety, but stained and ripped at the hems. They leaned on the metal railing, and barked out a laugh; paying no attention to the figures hidden out of sight.

Xiax was already ready and was keenly paying attention to Ham since he was the leader. That was why he could tell that something had upset and angered Ham. He too glanced from the table to the bookshelves questioning what it was that bothered Ham so much. However Xiax didn't have the time to inquire as July pulled out a knife and handed it to him hilt first. It was almost humorous in a ironic way seeing the knife's hilt pressed against the tattoo'd one in his hand. "Thanks." Xiax whispered as he took the knife offered to him.

Whatever those slips on the table were, Xiax didn't have the time to be reading them. July was alrready slipping out the door and he he had to follow. He crouched low, bending his body over so most of his mass was centered just a bit past his knees. Being tall  and weaing his pack, it was very important to keep himself low, so he made sure to let his fingertips brush the ground as his hand hovered over a tile incase he needed to lower himself further or catch his balance. Both July and Ham where just as freakishly tall so they too probably understood the pain of being giants trying to hide.

There was voices ahead. Xiax heard them much sooner than he could see them. July found a place to hide for cover and Xiax did his best to do the same, placing more of his weight on his hand on the floor as he hid beside/under a shelf. From where he was, he couldn't see them but he could see July and the others if he looked behind him. He reversed the knife in his hand so the blade was pressed against his forearm and he could use that hand too to hold a little of his weight and twist his body so his pack would be closer to the ground. What are they saying? Laughter was universal, but whatever language it was, Xiax couldn't make out a word of it.

Claire quietly followed behind July. She knew their party would be splitting up soon enough. She was much shorter then the others so creeping down was a little easier for her, however this was not her forte. She was used to her armor so a more silence approach made it easier to creep up on the enimes.  She saw the papers on the table, but had been unable to read them. She knew this place was bad news but wondered just how bad it really was.

Claire could hear the voices from up ahead. She couldn't understand them but wondered what they were saying. She would have to advance her language skills if she wanted to be able to listen in on others. She had plastered herself up against the wall, huddled down on her hands and knees in the darkness of the corner, not far from where Xiax was hiding. She wondered if Ham or July could understand what they were saying. She dared not say a word though in case she attracted their attention over to them.  

Zero was following everyone else hiding behind what ever she could fit behind or in the shadow of. She was trying to folllow the lead of everyone else. Trying to copy what they were doing. It seemed to be working, and was something she was kind of getting used to. In the end she was trying to stay close to Claire. Zero kinda wished that she could  understand what the people were saying, but she wasn't to sure if really wanted to know. In the end though she wanted to get this over with and done. She was tired of waiting and wanted to do something.

The man on the balcony was luckily to preoccupied with his 'friend' down below to notice as July led them out of sight and down another coridor. She made sure everyone was behind her as she snuck down the hall. Luckily, the hallways got bigger the further you got into the fort; offering more places to hide. She saw a tuft of smoke round the corner, and heard a man lightly exhale. She queued everyone behind cover, and shot a glance to her brother, raising an eyebrow.

'Do I have your permission to smoke this guy, oh wise and patient brother of mine?' She snarked him silently in her head. He nodded, and she quickly ducked out from behind cover. She could see a bit of his silken overcoat, stained with blood, as he leaned against the turn of the wall- facing away from them. She snuck up behind him, her steps hushed- and barely breathing. Her form extended from a crouch, going up, up, up; until her free hand clasped around his mouth, and her blade ran its bloody course across his neck. He didn't even have time to react; as quickly as July had come, he was now a corpse, hefted over her shoulder. She nodded for her brother to open one of the cabinets. Hopefully there was room for him in at least one of them.

The first he opened was full of stolen silks, furs, linen with lace edges; satin and materials usually reserved for the rich and famously wealthy. She shouldered him off, stuffing his body into the creases of fabric- the pastel satin absorbing the redness now dripping from his neck. As quietly as her brother had opened the doors- she now closed them, turning to see her brother peaking around the corner.

Ham watched as July dispatched the guard with practiced grace, stuffing him into a linen cabinet. As she hid the body, he peaked around the corner. There were a couple steps down; and a set of stairs across the way. The wall to the right was partially open to the courtyard, a set of 'windows' allowing moonlight to cascade in across the white floors. He saw his sister come ahead of him once more, ducking in close to the walls; looking back to make sure everyone was still there.

They'd most likely have to get rid of that guard, but July's far reach left her visible.

Xiax froze when July stopped as they came close to the corner. That's when he heard it, the sound of someone taking a drag off a smoke. There was a pause followed by a long exhale, yep someone smoking. While Xiax kept close to the wall realizing that he couldn't really hide at the moment with his stupidly oversized wicker backpack, July must have got some signal because she was offing the guy and trying to stuff his body into a cabinet.

After that Ham moved up there with July and was looking intently down the corridor. Ham checked on them again as did July before she moved up along the wall. Xiax crept closer to Ham, "Is everything ok?"  asking quietly. He didn't try to look around the corner, not unless Ham moved from his spot first.

Claire was as silent as she could be. The only sound that you could hear from her was her breathing, and even that she kept to a minimum. She asked no questions, trusting in her leaders as they heard noise from someone smoking. She knew they would take him out quietly. July and Ham were quite the team and she would not go against them now. She stayed hidden in the shadows of some statues as they took him out. She could see up ahead and wondered where they would be going next.

Ham nodded slightly, eyes still on the guard.  "We need to get rid of him," The sound barely left his lips. His gaze shifted to his sister. "You take the one in the courtyard, I'll take the one on the balcony." He saw his sister nod.

"Xiax, Claire, Zero. Wait here, when he give the signal, stay close to the wall, and move across as quickly and quietly as you can." He waited for their nods before turning back to the guard. He held his hand up, clenching it; and in the next moment had had vanished, like a whisp of smoke. He was now across the way, back pressed to the wall, next to one of the openings for the balcony. He waited for his sister to get into position. She'd have to be quick; he'd have to be quick. He waited until she was crouched behind one of the breaks in the openings of the wall before peaking out to see the guard angled away from him. He clenched his fist, and disappeared in a blink once more.

He was behind the man, and wasted no time reaching out, pulling him backwards into a choke hold, back, back away from the ledge. He heard the man in the courtyard speak beneath him.

"Where the hell is Vesemir with that rope?" He felt the man struggle, his feet not even touching the ground as he pulled him up, up; and felt him go limp in his grasp.

July only had a brief window to make sure there was no one else in the small courtyard. She looked down to see stones, bricks- they were renovating, refortifying. She saw no one else, just a bandit laying bricks- apparently they didn't trust their 'slaves' to fortify their hell hole. Smart. She quickly put one foot on the metal railing, hurtling herself over, making a claw like motion towards the ground the man now stood on. Void Reach allowed her to descend slowly, silently, breaking her fall as her knee made contact with the mans back. She clasped her hand over this ones mouth as well, her blade going in through the bottom of his head, out through the top. She quickly pulled her weapon out, grabbing onto his body and pulling the both of them up to the balcony where her brother was-

After a few moments of silence, of no sign from either of them, Ham appeared by the stars, peaking around the corner, urging the other three to hurry across.

Zero waited for the signal, once that was given she snuck over to the other side where Ham and July were at. She wasn't sure what to expect from them. Once she reached the other side she turned around to look back at the others, to see if they were coming. Zero thought for a moment about what the next move for her and Claire should be to free the slaves. At least once they found them.

Xiax nodded confirming that he had understood. Taking orders was weird to him, at least like this. Ham just straight up disappeared. He'd been there one second and gone the next. Xiax didn't see where he had gone or hear him run off like he had gone invisible. It was unnerving, it was magic afterall. July had also moved away, but Xiax at least could track her until she left his sight. With both of them gone Xiax scanned the area to find either of them or to keep watch in case someone appeared.

Both Claire and Zero could keep a low profile, but Xiax was starting to regret bringing his pack along for the ride. It stood out, it made him look like a hunchbacked gorilla. I really should have hid it in the hedges. he whined to himself mentally. Then poof there Ham was back again, and flagging them down to get their asses moving. Xiax was slower getting his move on then Zero apparently, but it was hard to get adjusted with people just popping in all over the place. Wait, couldn't he have just poofed himself into the room? Why did he just use the rope anyway? that questioning thought popping into Xiax's head as he briskly rushed down the hallway past the opening.

Claire did as she was told. She kept herself hidden as they waited for their return. She did not want to be the one that caused any comoution. She waited for Ham to return and once he did, she followed Xiax accross the hall quietly. Her feet barly making a sound. That was always a good thing when you wanted to be stealthy. Maybe she could learn some stealth moves from Ham and July after all this was over and she could learn to go without her armor for one or two quests.

Once the group had crossed the all, and they were all crouched by the stairs, Ham spoke to them in hushed tones; furling and unfurling his fingers. The burn beneath his skin prickling at the back of his hand- Blink didn't take nearly as much out of him as Bend Time did- but shit, did it still hurt. Like something something burning away at his skin.

"Alright, I believe we'll be divering here. Remember the plan, Claire, Zero? You have the map July drew you, go free the civilians; protect them. If anyone finds you, dispatch them as quickly and as quietly as possible. Try to avoid uneccessary scraps or tussles- but if you find yourself in one make sure to hide the bodies. One corpse could put this entire fort on lockdown." He looked between the two women. "Wait for my signal and then run like hell out of the gate; if you make a break for it beforehand one of the hostages might die- and they will give chase. Karnacans are famous for not making things easy. Clear?"

"Claire, just follow the map I gave you and stick close to the wall. Follow it all the way down. Half of the lower levels are storage rooms, the other half are cells. Most of the guards are set up in there but if you take them by surprise and use the darkness and terrain to your advantage you should be fine- and you'll have Zero with you." She shifted her gaze to Xiax, continuing in her hushed tone. "You'll be with me and Ham; killin' the big bad. Fun, right?"

As they regrouped again Xiax felt slightly dizzy for a second as he pressed his eyes shut to let it pass. Ham started explaining things, reminding them to be extra careful and things like that. He continued to listen, not hearing anything except Ham and then July talking. He opened his eyes in time to catch July look over to him. Even while being quiet she seemed to maybe be enjoying this a bit. "Fun." He replied not quite in agreement trying to fake her enthusiam. We're all gonna die, me twice, I just know it.

"Good luck." he said to Claire and Zero. You're gonna need it

[color:16ba=787776]Zero looked at Claire waiting for her to pull out the map. "What is the signal anyway?" Zero said in a similar hushed tone. She wanted to know what to expect before going in. Knowing anything would help. "Is there anything else we should know?"

Claire pulled the map out and shared it with Zero so that she would know where they were going. "Understood." She said looking at Ham. She gave a two finger saloot to Xiax and smiled. "Good luck to you as well Xiax." She said in a whisperered tone. She looked at Zero and waited for her questions to be answered before they headed off into the unknown. She had her sword. She would have to stick to her human form if she didn't want to be seen.

"Two gunshots. Rapid succession. If we don't have the ammo, we'll meet you by the main stairwell by the front. If you don't hear that and things turn sour, you'll have to take them out through the sewers."

"Which I penciled in on your map. Good luck you two." She nodded to Claire, motioning for Xiax to follow her. The two groups headed off in opposite directions, hers being blocked by a door. She listened to the other two trod off as she peeked through the keyhole. Seemed to be a vacant hallway, a long one, at that- but bigger than the ones they used to be in- but she could swear she could hear something on the other side. Not in the immediate area, luckily. She cautiously turned the doorknob, and whisked through the small opening, beconing the other two to follow.

Xiax watched as Claire and Zero departed. Then he returned his attention to July crouched down and peeking through the keyhole. She'd look like a horny teenager spying on a raunchy love-fest if this wasn't so serious. A tingling in his arm grew as they waited in July to give the all clear. Xiax flexed his fingers as he clenched and reclenched his hand, trying to get the growing tremors in his right arm to pass. She grabbed the doorknob, turned it, and crept through the door beckoning him and Ham to follow. Xiax had to open the door slightly wider to get through since he couldn't turn sideways and slip in like July. He reached into his pocket and grabbed the balled up strangling cord inside. As he followed after July being quiet he wrapped the cord loosely around his wrist as the tremors faded. My nerves are going crazy.

Ham noted Xiax's nerves; chalking it up to anxiety, fear that this was going to go wrong. The 'rookie jitters' as many called it. He trailed after him and his sister; closing the door quietly behind them, leaving no trace. The walls were lined with more mismatched furniture, stolen, gaudy art, crammed together on the walls. Luckily, the only lighting came from the far end of the hall; and neither side of the room had any windows. He noted the cord around Xiax's wrist, not bothering to ask what it was for- that would disrupt their operation.

"Xiax?" He said in a hushed whisper as July signaled for them to hold and went on ahead. "You alright?"

July didn't notice Xiax's anxiety, with her back towards him- she held up her hand, signalling for them to hold position as she crept ahead in the hallway. There were no extra doors lining this one, a single, straight coridor- which meant there was nowhere for them to duck into if things went sour. She crept along the edge of the hall, peeking around the corner.

Great, another windowed opening- another fucking balcony. But hey, at least there were no guards. She gestured for Xiax and her brother to come to her, eyes still keen around the corner.

Xiax paused as July called for a halt again and went ahead to scout. Ham though got close enough to him to ask him if he was alright. Glancing from July to Ham, then back to July he nodded and answered dismissively with "Yeah, yeah. Good." It wasn't a problem and the tremor had stopped so he should be good for awhile. Noticing July beckoning them forward again he moved towards her with one last "I'm good."

Once her brother and Xiax had rejoined her, she started down the hall, peaking up over the balcony to see-

Guards.

A lot, of guards. Two on the balcony above them; one walking the balcony below; it was a narrow galley, not the main courtyard. They had to go deeper inside for that. That's where she was sure that bastard would me; all holed up all comfy like. She heard a crash to her left, followed by a chorus of bawdy laughter. She looked to see a glass foor further down the hall; wood paneling taking the place of stone. She was sure plenty of guards were getting wasted when they were supposed to be on watch.

The door swung open; and out staggered one such perpatrator, bottle still in his hand. July held her breath; hoping he wouldn't see her- see them. She grabbed the crossbow folded up in her belt, ready to shoot the bastard if he turned-

But he didn't. He blinked furiously in the moonlight, staggering for a bit- before swaggering off in the opposite direction.

Ham sighed in relief alongside his sister as the drunk staggered away from them.

"I'm assumed we need to get to the other side?" He looked at the guards patrolling the balconies, still keeping a watchful eye on the drunk. His sister nodded. He pulled out his own crossbow, arming it with a bolt. "I hope your aim is still as good as mine." He ribbed her, smiling as she furiously and deftly pulled hers out from her belt- clicking the bloody bolt into place. They'd have to make sure they wouldn't go toppling over the railing- and that the drunk wouldn't see their dead bodies and freak out. Always a fun possibility.

Xiax grew increasingly worried about the dwindling number of places to hide. Ham and July seemed to be doing fine, but they didn't have a backpack the size of horse on their back! There was a lot of bawdy noise coming from a room just a ways away, it sounded like a drunk fest. Xiax couldn't make out the words but it sounded like they were cheering someone or something just before a man stumbled out leaving the party. Xiax wanted to move but if he went after the guy then they might see him nab the guy. Lucky for Xiax and everyone else, the dude was so plastered that he couldn't see anything straight in front of him. Gotta love beer goggles.

Just as Xiax was appreciating his luck Ham and July both pulled out and armed their crossbows getting ready to shoot a couple of guys up on a balcony. Weren't they just saying something about not leaving bodies behind to Claire and Zero?

"We shoot them, you go up, hide the bodies; and take out the other guards. Xiax and I will take care of our drunken friend- tuck him away- and meet you on the other side." Ham whispered to his sister; waiting for her to take aim. She shot first; he shot second; the hushed 'twing' of their crossbows luckily not attracting much attention.

Her shot hit her target squarely through the eye, causing him to stagger bac and flop over; dead. His skewered his target through the throat- causing him to go to his knees, and eventually keel over. The guard below had turned from his position, and was now looking down at the courtyard below.

"Go." Ham urged his sister; watching as she Void Reached up and across the expanse, up to the top balcony. He saw her pull the bolts from the two dead bodies, and begin to drag them out of sight. He looked back to Xiax. "Follow me." He crouched after the staggering drunk, ready to pull him into a chokehold once he was close enough.

"CHUG, CHUG, CHUG-" He heard the men shouting in Karnacan through the doorway, banging on whatever table they were sitting at. His gaze shifted to his left, down to the guard below- who was now gone.

Once July had tucked the bodies away- under one of the bunks inside the room behind them, she set her sights on the guard below. She dropped down from the balcony, making sure he was faced away. Just as he was about to turn she rushed him; blade through his throat before he could haven make a sound. She freed her weapon, dragging him back up to the top balcony, to hide him with his two bretherin.

Ohh, I guess I spoke to soon. Xiax realized when Ham give a little mid mission plan right then and there. Not having to wait long he followed after the Drunk with Ham. The party was in full swing, so much that it drew Ham's attention for a second. Xiax was still watching the drunk wander off when Ham looked off in another direction and suddenly looked back and forth scanning the area. Maybe they had missed a guard? Xiax kept following after the guy, the guy he and Ham were supposed to kill. Even knowing what these men where and had done didn't exactly elicit the overwhelming desire to kill this guy.

Poor drunk fool, sorry it has to be like this. Xiax apologized wordlessly as he crept closer the the guy. Where was it that I've heard to stab a guy? Ohh yeah in the kidneys. Xiax remembered overhearing on the streets. Following through with the advice Xiax slammed the knife July had giving him earlier in that spot while trying to grab the booze bottle with his other hand before it hit the ground.

Ham watched Xiax cut ahead of him and observed in vague shock as Xiax embedded a dagger in the mans kidneys. Shit, he had been planning on choking the guy out and dumping him somewhere- Maybe July had been rubbing off on him a bit too much. Ham dove to catch the bottle; springing up to clamp his hand over the mans mouth so he couldn't cry out, putting his arms around his neck to silence him. He was hoping to just choke him out; but at this point it would just let him bleed to death.

After she had finished hiding the other body; July awaited her brother and Xiax across the way, peering through another keyhole. The inside of this was more grandiose- with thought put into the decoration. She didn't see many guards; at least not from her vantage point.

Xiax's hand swung out and missed the bottle as it fell. Lucky for him, Ham appeared diving to catch the thing, rolling up to his feet and clamped a hand over the guy's mouth. Then he just sort of pulled the guy forward and got around behind him to choke him silent. Xiax stepped away, to keep from the risk that he might bump into Ham. Ohh that's right, that just leaves them gasping like a fish. It didn't outright kill them. Why didn't I remember that?

While Xiax watched Ham wait for the guy to go limp from passing out, he quietly muttered an apology. "Sorry about that." It didn't seem like he was cut out for this kind of stuff yet. Here I was trying to help, and Ham is cleaning up another mess I made. This was starting to become a pattern, not good. He was able to redeem himself by finding a place to hide the body, a small consolation.

Once Ham choked the poor man out, he removed the knife- July's, from the mans abdomen, offering it out to Xiax as he sank back down lower, almost into a crouch. He breathed out a light 'it's fine'; trying his best to restrain himself from looking at the man in chastizing horror. He continued down the hall with the bleeding man in one arm, and his have empty bottle in the other. Hopefully they'd find a place to stow him before July got impatient and ran off on her own.

And that they did; with Xiax pointing out a nice hiding spot to Ham- it was a consolation, at least. He still felt bad for the man, bleeding out was a terrible way to go. Ham paused a moment; before unfolding his collapsable sword, and putting it quickly, gracefully, through the mans throat. At least this way he didn't have to suffer. Poor sod.

"Come on, we should rejoin July." Ham said, not looking back at Xiax as he resumed his crouch, tracing the wall to cross the expanse, seeing the shadow of his sister peeking through a keyhole.

"See anything?" Ham whispered to his sister, who barely even moved.

"Nope. Clear." She softly clicked the door open, peaking through. Animal trophies hung along the walls. Some were a little worse for wear- but at least it was less gaudy than the entryway. She craned her neck to look around. No sight of anyone, but she did hear talking down in the courtyard. Down- She knew that voice. She knew that voice. She drew closer to the edge; peering over the railing. This courtyard was bigger; with beams hanging overhead, probably to provide shade or protection from rainfall.

There the bastard stood. Oizys. That fucker. Her eyes hardened with a singular, predatory purpose. She heard Ham come to her side.

"July," He whispered after a moment. He didn't think she was listening.

They entered into a trophy room with Xiax bringing up the rear. The room had a sort of staleness to it, and didn't smell of preservatives so the trophies must not have been fresh. There was more voices, somewhere down below but still in that language he couldn't understand. Xiax was looking at the interesting trophies until July rushed to the balcony railing seemingly possessed in rage or hate. He could see her knuckles turn white as she leaned over with a predatory gaze. If the railing had been wood Xiax probably would have heard it creaking from the strength she was holding it with her hands.

Ham came up beside her, close to snap her out of it. Xiax came close to the railing and looked down into the courtyard. There seemed to be nearly a dozen scattered about here and there. It seemed that the focus of July's attention was addressing a small group in the open. Noticing that there was a couple people on different balconies down below he really hated his power that kept him from touching people. "July, Ham. If we can see those guys -"Xiax whispered while pointing at the guys he could see on a couple balconies, "- then they could spot us if they looked up." He moved away from the railing while seeing if there was any other doors out of the room.

"Can't spot anyone if they're dead." The words barely left July's lips as she Void Reached over to the side balcony; hugging close to the wall as she quickly made her way over to descend upon the two guards.

"July-" Ham hissed, but it was too late; she was out of his reach. He turned to his one remaining groupmate. "Xiax we have to get down there before she gets herself killed." He pulled out his blade once again; decreasing his crouch into more of a slouch. From the corner of his eye; he could see the two guards now gone- knowing his sister would work his way down the latter until she got to Oizys- or set off the alarm.

Xiax twisted about and tried to reach out to grab July but she was long gone. "Shit." He should have realized that the guy she was staring at like a rabid dog was Oizys. "Well duh, but she's got a head-start and we don't know this place." That and July wasn't likely to be taking her sweet time. "Please tell me that you've got crazy amazing magic that can just flatten everyone like a pancake? Or shoot lightning? Cause all I've got is rope." Some people had multiple powers, and though he had a pretty good guess that Ham could teleport he wasn't exactly sure that was it. Up until now things had been doing alright, but now everything went 'Tits up' as July would put it and Xiax was even more acutely aware that he was shit out of luck.


Ham sighed inwardly, beconing for Xiax to follow him- he loads his crossbow, sword in his other hand, stopping before the door.

"You...could say that. I would rather not be forced to use it- but it looks like I'm going to have to." He looked back. "Stay behind me; don't touch anyone, and keep up. My sister isn't getting herself killed by bandits."

He opened the door to see four of them- three around a table, one standing. He blinked towards him, slamming him against a wall- he ran his sword along his neck and turned. Five- there were five of them, one was behind the door- moving for Xiax. He let loose his crossbow; and the arrow sank into his throat, and he slumped to the floor as he tried to move. The two other men lunged up at him; drawing their swords- one didn't get their chance. He moved upon him too quick; his sword ran through his chest too swiftly for him to pull out the dirtied blade at his hip. He looked up,  seeing the last man cutting his chances with Ham and instead moving for Xiax. At first, he thought it might be for a hostage but no- he raised his sword.

Ham blinked once more; the harsh sound of metal on metal was sure to attract attention, but his suprise parry made the man stagger backwards- enough to give Ham the opening to ram his sword through his ribs, pushing him backwards.

Maybe he wouldn't have to use it- maybe-

But there had just been five of them, and they hadn't noticed Xiax at first. He'd had the element of surprise. He motioned for Xiax to follow him through the room, putting his crossbow away, moving through the next door without even bothering to listen.

So it turned out that Ham did have a super power: being a fucking slaughternaut. Xiax had entertained the idea of just grabbing and infusing Ham in his sudden desperation at July going all bat shit crazy. Instead he had hesitated because it sounded like Ham might have some sort of hesitation himself to use it. Now he was hurrying to catch up to Ham after witnessing him kill half a dozen guys in no time, and Xiax had just had his life saved like two or three times in that short span.

Well Xiax couldn't fault the guy for believing he could keep anyone from touching him, he just had to look behind him at the room full of bodies for confirmation. If they where going to go through rooms like this, then there might be a slim hope to catch up to July. Compared to the skills of nearly everyone else in the group, Xiax felt a little out of his league with his rope and a knife.

Ham made sure Xiax was following him as he made his way quickly down the coridors. One bandit that spotted him and tried to stop him ended up with a hole in his chest before he could even make a move. Ham's entire hand felt like it was on fire- but he didn't care. The prickly pain was crawling up to his wrist now; making the joint feel like he'd just dipped it in boiling water. The drawback for his blink was easier to deal with than the alternative. He blinked into another cluster; moving like a dance- one, two, three, throat, chest, head- One moment they were talking, the next eviscerated. He clenched and unclenched his fist- trying not to notice the pain. They were winding down the path- down the stairs. He looked back over to make sure Xiax was still with him-

He felt an elbow collide with his face. Shit that hurt. He felt dazed for a minute; the glint of candle light on metal giving him a chance to raise his sword to block- the harsh 'clang' causing his ears to ring once more.

What would you do in a situation like this? Following after Ham was almost surreal. They where swiftly running from room to room, Xiax would blink and suddenly Ham would just be in the middle of a group of enemies slaughtering them like his sword darting about like a swarm of metallic piranha. There had been a moment when Ham had looked back to make sure Xiax was still keeping up that someone had gotten the jump on Ham, ohh wait that was this moment. Xiax was already way closer when reality came flooding back into the moment. Still running towards the guy, Xiax tossed the knife at the man. It tumbled end over end and slapped the guy with mostly hilt and cross-guard. That didn't really matter though since Xiax had grabbed a hold of one of the handles, pulled the cord free of his arm, formed a loop and slipped it over the guys wrist. Xiax pulled his hands apart tightening the loop and drug the guy off balance by throwing himself to the ground while keeping a hold of the cord.

(Collab to be continued tomorrow)

(Continuing my collab with Methos)

Ham stood, dazed for a moment as he observed Xiax physically take the man down. Had he told him to stay back? He had- he was sure he had. But Ham supposed everyone was ignoring him today. But rather than the frusteration he felt towards his sister; he was hit with a wave of gratitude. He'd flung himself in harms way; unknowing if the man had magic or not, unknowing if his power would go haywire, to help him. That might have seemed foolish to some- but to Ham there was a rather crooked line between stupidity and bravery.

Ham flipped his sword in his hand as soon as he snapped out of his elbow enduced daze, dropped, knife first- skewering it through the mans throat as him and Xiax wrestled on the floor. He was careful not to touch the man, knowing if nothing else he would be sure to send him into the same screaming mess July had flung him into days prior.

Once the bandit stopped moving, he freed his sword from the mans neck.

"Thanks...thank you." He nodded appreciatively, moving to offer the man a hand up but pulling back when he realized that was definitely a bad idea.

The fall to the floor hasn't been intentinal, and his elbow slammed painfully into the tile. It hurt, it hurt so so much. He felt the guy tugging trying to get his arm free, and Xiax couldn't let go. He took a knee to the stomach, which hurt but he didn't feel himself jerked away because of infuse. Breathless from the knee in the stomach, he wrestled with the guy as he was forced to grab the guys wrist or risk getting skewered by the guys sword. He'd lost sight of Ham during the tussle, but after an eternity his blade flashed and it was over.

Xiax flopped over onto his back, and panted his nerves spent. He cracked an eye as Ham thanked him, and he went to respond but the words died as his hand stopped moments from from taking that hand up. He drug himself up to his feet then stretched and flexed his arm. "No, no, don't worry about it." Knowing that Ham would want to get going any second, Xiax picked up July's knife and grabbed the dead guys sword.

After the brief pause on his briskly paced hack n slash through the corridors of the fort; Ham awaited Xiax to get to his feet before continuing onward. They were getting lower, towards the courtyard. He hadn't heard anything, which was usually a good sign- but silence was golden to his sister and he knew that just because he couldn't hear anything didn't mean they were behind her. That asshole had set them back- taken away time they couldn't afford to lose.

One more staircase, one more and they'd be down at ground level; he heard a chorus of footsteps, coming in from the right. Either they'd found a body or they'd heard the tussle. Great. The prickly heat was crawling up his arm; and he flexed his fingers to make sure he could still move them, his fingertips starting to go numb.

"What the hell was that noi-" Karnacan. One of them rounded the corner, but Ham didn't give him time to finish that thought. They were losing the element of surprise, but he was going to make the most of it.

Blink. And his sword was running through the base of the mans neck. He saw movement to his right- another man, shock on his face, reaching down into his belt for a weapon, he was sure. He pried the blade out of the first man, pushing his body backwards so it tumbled to the ground. He didn't have room in the entryway to make a slash; he flipped the blade in his hand, going through a twisting motion to run the blade right through his eye. The mans face twitched; he tried to pull the sword out; but it was hard, stuck. He put his free, burning hand to the mans face and pulled, slowly pulling it from the mans bleeding eye socket.

He looked towards the area behind them, no stairs, a dead end.

He looked back to Xiax. "That way-" He pointed to the direction behind him, taking off in a quick, quiet run. Sure enough, there were the stairs. He was sure that once they got down there there'd be more- a lot, all at once. He was going to have to rush this- Bend Time was already an opion but-

Ham was hussling, quietly, he had some really nice boots. Xiax was trying to keep equally quiet but his boots were far too new and just made it even harder. He had to keep his new sword out to the side so he didn't accidently stab himself if he stumbled on the numerous stairs they kept running down. Even with his heart pounding in his chest he was able to make out someone else but suddenly Ham was gone and the voice died off. A body tumbled into view, it's head failing to roll away from the strip of flesh that held it on. It made Xiax pull up short, but he heard a grunt and he looked around the corner. It was just Ham trying to get his sword free, he seemed to have a little trouble. Was he running out of steam?

There he was flexing his hand again... Xiax turned around when Ham pointed back the way they had just come. Though he started heading in that direction first, Ham quickly caught up to him. "You ok?" Xiax asked concerned as Ham started to pull out ahead of him. "Your hand?"

Ham snapped out of his focused trance and looked to Xiax. Hand? Oh, his hand. He looked down, flexing his fingers.

"Yeah, yes- this...Blink, it..can hurt. Burn. If I use it rapidly. I'm fine, though. Thank you." He turned to face Xiax slightly. "Listen, once we get down there, there will be a lot of them- and I do mean a lot. I know I can take them. But we've been lucky, the two you've come in contact with weren't mages- but I can't guarantee that none of them below are going to be. If you want to stay out of sight, go back to Claire and Zero if things go bad- you can. I'm not going to force you down into the thick of it to fix July's mistake." He used 'fixing a mistake' rather than 'potentially rescue' to ease pressure off the man.

Blink? That must be his teleporting power, and using it caused burns. So what was all that back there? What had Ham been using to kill all those men like Sylmeria cutting loose? Then Ham came clean and leveled with Xiax, and it caused him to momentarly look back the way they'd come... There is no way I can find my way back.

"No, you're right." Xiax said looking back to Ham his expression dark and introspective. He seemed to come to a decision, sliding July's knife under his belt to keep it in place. Then he flipped the sword he had looted from the dead guy earlier and offered it to Ham. "Here. Take it, save July." When Ham hesitated to take it, Xiax insisted trying to reassure him. "Just incase you lose yours. I'll find somewhere to hole up."

"No," Ham let him keep the sword, after all, the man needed something to defend himself with. He raised his hand to nudge the handle gently away. "You keep it- I have m-" He stopped, footsteps- he heard footsteps. He lifted his gaze from Xiax just in time to see a very up close and personal view of a mahogany chair.

"Aha- I got him!" Was all he heard as he, and the remaining bits of the chair, tumbled down the stairs. "Heard you off Nev and Ray- been hiding out here waiting for you fucks."

The man had cracked Ham across the head with a stool; what the fuck was this? A bar fight? Ham groaned, starting to pull himself to his feet, fumbling for his crossbow. Xiax, Xiax was still up there. He saw the bandit at the top of the stairs look down at him triumphantly, too busy gloating over his victory to pay any more of a mind to the scruffy looking man next to him.

He felt something wet, sticky mat through his hair. Bleeding, great- he was bleeding. He looked to his left, out into the courtyard- he saw more bandits drawing their swords- Oizys was nowhere in sight. Fucking fantastic. Well, at least he knew for sure the element of surprise was gone then. He yanked out his pistol, aiming upwards at the man; best he good in his dazed vision, and fired; knicking the man right in his knee.

He struggled, for anything to hold onto as he fell forward- Unfortunately for Xiax, that 'anything' happened to be him.

Xiax had already made up his mind, and was about to insist again so he could reach out and grab him. for a second Ham seemed to have heard something and looked in that direction. It was Xiax's chance, and he was just about to do it when he reflexively pulled away just before a chair swung past his head. Ham however was not so lucky, and he took a bad fall down the stairs as Xiax shielded his face from broken bits of wood went everywhere.

There was a triumphant yell, next to him. Xiax kept his arms up as he moved to the side incase the chair came around for another shot at him. Risking taking his eyes off the man who might be gloating to find his friend and check if he was dead. That glance rewarded Xiax with the brief glance to see Ham getting up. Where is the sword?! Xiax said noticing both his hands were empty, and realizing that he must have dropped it dodging the chair. Without any options Xiax backed away down the steps. A resounding retort fillied the hall followed by a whizzing sound zipping past his ear. A red line blossomed on the assailant's knee causing the guy to collasp and reach out to the nearest thing to stop him.
Xiax reflexively caught the guy, stumbling backwards down the stairs from their combined weight. The bouncing during the fall his several spots, and his brain rattled around in his skull as they tumbled to the bottom. Everything was spinning, and Xiax couldn't put enough together to deal with the guy who might still be alive. All Xiax could manage was to push the guy off him and hold his own head in pain as he tried to roll onto his stomach slowly.

Ham took a leap back as Xiax and the man tumbled down the stairs. As Xiax pushed the man off of him, Ham yanked the assailant up by the back of his collar, putting his sword sluggishly through his neck as his brain slowed its roll around his skull.

Footsteps. He heard footsteps. A lot of footsteps- He looked up just in time to see the rusty glint of a short sword raised above his head- He blocked, he moved his sword to block. But the violent clash never came.

"Stop!" Karnacan- Karnacan and he knew that voice. He saw the men stop on a dime. Two looked behind them. "I can't see you, but I know who you are." The men looked at each other in confusion, one of them had their swords pointed down at Xiax, another had the point of his angled at Ham's throat.

"Bring them out here- I know there are two little rats running around my dungeon, trying to steal my merchandise. I want to know if it's the same prick as last time." Ham was yanked by his arm out towards the center of the courtyard. He tried to look back, see where Xiax was, but the shark point of a sword on his neck advised him against the motion. At least he could see Oizys, and knew that July hadn't gotten to him first. At least, he hoped not. The man was Karnacan, and Karnacan's loved to gloat.

Behind him Xiax was aggressively pulled to his feet; being dragged between two armed men if he refused to walk on his own. In the courtyard there hung a fishing net, rigged up with wire, painted red, above the large, very conspicuous door. Most of the bandits had fallen upon Ham, but two still remained on either side of what appeared to be the man in charge. They were surrounded; completely, utterly surrounded- pinned between bandits who smelled like the last time they were acquainted with soap was back in the motherland.

Ham's eyes fell upon Oizys himself. A tall man; not taller than him, but of average Karnacan height, six feet, if he had to wager a guess. The clothes he wore were fine, and not sullied like those of the bandits- his suit was Karnacan, tailored, albeit shodily, in three pieces. It looked old, it was old; as was he- or had a life of crime simply aged him quicker?

He didn't need to be helped violently to his feet, but he was. Even before his feet succeeded in finding some semblence of order again, he noticed the smell. His head drooped against his chest weakly where he could make out two men sandwiching him between them as they hauled his ass somewhere. Groggily groaning Xiax mouthed something derogitory about them and needing soap as he tried to Infuse himself in hopes that it would clear his head. For his flipancy, one of his escorts drove his fist into Xiax's soft stomach. He drew his fist back getting ready for a second shot but a voice called him to a stop and Xiax slumped against his other captor. Coughing a bit, Xiax kept his head slumped against his chest as he tried to take in his surroundings. He had to raise his head a bit to see Ham's back, and the guard shrugged trying to get Xiax's weight off him and onto his own two feet. The man didn't let go, damn. The world was starting to come back into focus, and Xiax almost wished it hadn't. We're fucked.

"Well, well; if it isn't Infinity Edge's most beloved foreigner." Oizys looked down at them from atop the doube sided staircase he stood on, before the door. He almost looked menacing; almost. He took a puff of his cigar before lowering himself into a courteous bar. "Lovely to see you again, Lord Hamlet Napolitano." He righted himself.

"Oizys." Ham said flatly, feeling a spike of anger and a pang of guilt rise in him as he could hear one of the guards behind him take a swing at Xiax. "Don't-" He started in Karnacan, one of the bandits pressed the point of his blade tightly against his throat, trying to 'encourage' him into silence. "Touch him." He finished resiliently.

"And you have?" Oizys shifted his gaze to Xiax. "A guest! Mainlander?" He switched from Karnacan to the common tongue. "Greetings, Stranger. I hope you have amused yourself, rifling through my fort, killing my men." He took another drag from his cigar. "Tell me, are those two rats scurrying around my basement yours? Getting their dirty little pawprints all over my merchandise?" Ham glared at him, and he gently tutted him. "Now, don't look at me like that, Hamlet! Surely you know business is business? At least I don't kill people for money like your sister does. Speaking of, where is she? Last time I say you two you were destroying my last abode."

Ham let out an inward sigh of relief. He hadn't seen her yet. Then again, he could be lying- but Oizys struck him as a braggart- he'd rub it in his face.

Ham was out of reach in front of him with several swords pointed at him, but that wasn't what was shocking. The guy who gave off a mob-boss kind of vibe looked at him specificantly and starting speaking in a language Xiax could understand. He seemed to be wanting answers, but Xiax kept his mouth shut long enough that a glaring Ham was able to take the pressure off of him. How did this guy know about Claire and Zero? No one had seemed to trip any alarm until everything hit the wall with him and Ham. All he could do was wait as he recovered, maybe he would get a chance to do something. Why didn't Ham blink? Was there some sort of hand gesture like Void Reach? Thinking about July, made Xiax remember to advert his eyes towards the ground to try and hide his zombie eyes.

Ham was grateful for Xiax's silence- kept the heat on Ham, right where the attention belonged. "My sister is none of your concern."

"Ooh, testy! Tell me, she still playing at being an assassin?" Oizys closed his eyes, as if fondly remembering something. "Ah, I remember her like it was yesterday. She'd make such a better dancer than an assassin. Legs for days, that curve of her back and oh those eyes." His eyes snapped open. "Don't get me wrong Ham, you've got them too. But hers, mm, nothing like the scathing gaze of a woman, right? Such a mouth on her too. Hmmm, but I suppose you don't want to hear that, do you."

"No," Ham said flatly. "I don't."

"And what about you, mainlander- got nothing to say? Look, he's looking at his feet. Is he shy? Dumb? Lame? There's no need to be nervous friend- I am, if nothing else, a forgiving man." He opened his arms wide, his gaze bearing down on him.

From the top vista of the fort, behind Oizys, July had perched herself above the action. She'd have to act- but if she acted too soon Xiax and Ham were liable to get hurt. She had to wait. She had to wait. She gripped the handle of her blade, leaning back over the ledge so they wouldn't see her perched above them.

The mob-boss... Oizys, Oizys was his name. Oizys was talking about July in a way that was creepy coming from a guy that might be twice her age while talking to her father. It seemed like he didn't know that, but still it was pretty Creep. Where was July anyway? He knew he wouldn't hear her, and definintely not smell her, ughhh. Xiax involuntarily made a ralphing sound as he swallowed back a bit of bile caused by the fumes wafting from his guard's armpit.

He knew he shouldn't rise to the occassion, but he couldn't stop himself. "I'm Deaf, Dumb, and Blind, but at least I bathe." He immediately regretted it, and refused to look up. If Xiax looked up, Oizys would see his eyes and it'd be all over. I should have just kept my mouth shut, like Ham'd want.

'Fuck,' Ham hissed to himself as Xiax opened his mouth. 'Fuck, fuck, fuck.' Why did he have to say that? Why did he have to say anything. Ham knew he was going to have to mood fast or-

The two guards on either side of Xiax tightened their grip on him, one winding up their fist to hit him again-

Before Oizys started laughing. A full, deep belly laugh, he put a hand to his stomach, leaning over slightly. "Oh, oh I like you already mainlander." He looked up, staring cooly at the wound up fist for a moment. "What are you doing, jackass- he's right. You smell like shit. Put your fist down while you still have one." The man sheepishly lowered his fist, keeping his grip firm on Xiax in embaressment. "But that still doesn't answer my question, Napolitano." He leaned his hands on the metal break between where he stood and his two 'prisoners'. "Where the fuck is your sister? Or perhaps the mainlander would like to tell me?" He quirked his head towards Xiax.

"Why do you want to know, bastard." He watched the mans face harden, hatred and contempt seeping into his face. For a moment, he reached down furiously as if to pull out a weapon. But he stopped himself, huffing for a moment. He inhaled slowly, and then exhaled.

"Because Napolitano," His open grin gave way to a mouth full of fake, golden teeth amidst some made of yellow and rot. "I like the shape of her ass." He offered one, vulgar pelvic thrust for emphasis.

Great; Xiax had opened his mouth- and Ham had called him a bastard. She had to step in- she had too, she saw Oizys reaching for his gun-

She lurched herself over the edge, descending horizontally, beginning to straighten herself when she felt something pull at her ankle. A chord? She couldn't even hear the 'twang' of it snapping before the fishing net- seemingly only for wall decoration, open beneath her, and catch her in its grasp before she could get to her target. She surpressed a cry, instead letting out a grunt as she realized she was- all puns aside dead in the fucking water.

"Well, looky looky boys- seems as if we've caught ourselves a river nymph!" Oizys looked up with a cackle as a round of laughter blanketed the courtyard. "Fashionably late, as women are want to be."

Xiax felt the grip of the two men tighten and he braced himself for the inevitable beating that was coming. Laughter was not what he was expecting, it stunned him, unnerved him. Though the two men had relented in their choice to beat him, they had tightened their grips on him and all hope of him breaking free looked bleak. Again he asked Ham after his sister and when Ham didn't look like he was going to respond, he tried to ask Xiax.... whom feared it was a vieled threat of harm. Funny or not, he hadn't earned any favors with that remark. Ham again came to the rescue, it was surely that and not him caving to the threat.

Oizys didn't like Ham insulting him, and Xiax feared that Ham was going to get hurt. However the man seemed to calm himself, and continue. Going so far as to taunt Ham and cause his men to join in with laughter. There was an odd sound, like unraveling thread only louder. It drew his attention up as Oiyzs commented on his catch. He should have recognized that the net had been a trap.

"No July, no." Xiax moaned defeatedly and his shoulders slumped as the hope that she wouldn't get caught dashed like breakwater on the shore in a storm.

July took her blade and started furiously trying to cut the ropes, trying to maintain a relative stillness- the more she moved, the more she'd get tangled- and the more they'd laugh. Those fucking bastards

"July-" Ham breathed, trying to move towards his sister on instinct, but was once again held back by the swords at his throat. Fuck, fuck this was all going to hell. He'd promised Xiax he'd keep him safe- he couldn't even keep his own sister safe.

Oizys stood on one of the stone collumns bracketing the fence, looking up at July smugly. "Well, well; if it isn't the lovely Juliette Napolitano- out of her depth once more. Tsk, don't look at me like that! Oh, but you are one of those types that looks so delicious when you're mad. Don't pay any mind to my comments my dear- just the things men like to say." Her glare did not subside.

"Don't worry, I know what goat fucking inbreds like you love to say when no one's able to stick up for you." She spat at him. "See all the little presents I left in your hall, fucker- Decided to give you a taste of what I'm going to do to you when I get my hands on you." She snarled at him; and he laughed- he fucking laughed! She was livid. "Guess I shouldn't expect any sense of self preservation from a whoreson like you, right? Tell me did Baron daddy ever actually name you an heir or is pirating the only way you can get a taste of the good life?" She sneered at him, watching his face turn red.

Oizys was struggling to keep his composure. "Let it loose." He said flatly.

"But O-"

He turned to the bandit beside him, leering until he was an inch from his face. "I said let it loose." He inhaled, calming himself once more as the bandit pulled down on a lever beside him. There was a click above July, and before she could even react the net she was in hurtled above Ham and Xiax, across the courtyard, slamming into a stone wall, and sending her trundling to the ground. Ham couldn't even look back- all he could hear was the harsh sound of rope falling behind him. For a moment there was no noise from July, no sound that she was even still alive. A fall like that couldn't kill her right? Right?

"Kill them," Oizys took a moment to enjoy the look of catatonic horror on Ham's face before waving his fingers at his guards. He turned, walking inside the large, ornate door. "Let the Edge know what we do to interlopers in Karnaca." The door gave a heavy creak as it closed behind the man.

July took it about as well as expected, she tounge lashed the shit out of Oizys. Now when Ham had insulted Oizys, the man had managed to hold back his temper, but the level of heat coming from July's wasn't a candle but a bonfire personally leveled to roast this bastard to the core. It worked, and Oizys flipped, forcing one of his men to flip a lever. It catapulted Jult over their heads and into a wall. The sicking crunch lingered in the air, demanding silence. It was like the world was standing still in some sick joke until the words "Kill them," came out of Oizys mouth.

It flipped a switch, called all the little hamster's in Xiax's mind to run themselves to death. Xiax dropped all his weight at once, grabbing the arm of his guard on the right holding him with his hand and flipping him headfirst into the ground empowered by Infuse. His hand now free Xiax reached into his pocket and retrieved his shiv as he pulled his other guard close and stabbed his a couple times in the chest with enough force that after the third attempt the shiv broke as it struck bone as Xiax screamed in rage.

Now unarmed, he did the only thing he could think of and dove into the back of one of Ham's guards thrusting out his hand to Ham. "Take it! Save her!" Xiax knew he didn't stand a chance fighting these guys, and maybe Ham the Slaughternaut could, but IF she wasn't dead, then this bastard father better save her life. July could forgive him if she lived, but Xiax couldn't abandon his best friend.

Ham was stunned; his sister wasn't dead. July. Wasn't. Dead. But she was quiet; quieter than she'd ever been known to be. She hadn't gotten killed by bandits, the plan hadn't gone this tits up. He felt sick; he remembered the sickening crack as July had hit the wall. He was in a daze. Think Ham; think, think. You're the plan- the brain. Think of something, thing of something.

He jolted when he heard Xiax scream behind him. He turned slightly, watching as he went what Ham could only describe as absolutely postal. For a brief moment Ham found himself thanking the fact that Xiax, in some ways, seemed to take after his sister. He watched as Xiax tackled one of the guards to the ground, the other two lifting their swords away from him to try to bare down on him. He froze. He'd promised the man- Promised him. Ham's word was his bond- and here Xiax was, hand out to him, begging him to save his sister.

He knew, they both knew what that would do to him. They knew- July had told him. July, July who might now be dead- or about to be dead, if he's unable to fix this.

He'd have to use it. He'd have to. He hated it- he hated it; but he had too. Xiax was counting on him, his sister was counting on him. And they were dead if he didn't pull out Ham's nuclear option.

He raised his hand, curling his fingertips into a claw. Light flickered at his fingertips; extending into whisps, a pulse of light echoed through his skeleton- cascading through, illuminating his skeleton starting at the tips of his fingers to his sternum.

The world stopped; on a dime. In that moment he saw the guards, frantic, blades raised- he saw the bandits on the outer stairs jumping in to combat- he saw the two guarding the door opping over the stone blockade to get in on murdering the three of them. He saw Xiax, hand still outstretched. He heard the words that time held no meaning for- he heard the whispers of silence, of the time out of time. He raised his sword; and he made the seconds count.

He pulled out his crossbow, quickly, deftly loading it- the arrow let loose from it, stopping a few inches from the small metallic crossbow, ready to resume their flow and embed themselves in the heads of the guards- so ignorant, so unfortunately unknowing of what was to come. No time to react, it was almost unfair. Ham almost felt sorry for them.

Almost.

He embedded his sword in the throat of the guard Xiax was pinning, killing him first- just to be safe. And he danced, danced through the suspended motion of time, one two, three- like a dancer through a song. He shoved his sword through the ribs of the one who had prevented him from turning back to see his sister, he slit the throat of the one whose dagger he'd jabbed in his throat. He set his dagger upon onces eye, it was easier to pull out when you had nothing to drag you back- no bodily twitches. Just silence. It used to make him uncomfortable, being out of time. But now it felt almost like home- like a brief escape from the world. Even though he knew what it cost him. He pulled out his pistol, setting it upon the two guards trying to leap upon Xiax. Four bullets- two for each. Just to be safe.

He felt it- the twisting in his chest that let him know it was coming to an end. But it was done, the guards were dispatched; waiting for their bodies to catch up to their deaths as they sat, suspended in stasis. He looked back at his sister- as the colors returned, as time resumed.

As his own time was taken.

Ham was staring right in his eyes, surprise and confusion coloring his face. Xiax had his hand outstretched, and Ham seemed too shocked to grab the damn thing. Grab it! Grab it god damn you! Xiax's thoughts screamed through his eyes. Ham rose his hand to his face, the color drained from Xiax's face as it looked like Ham was broken, that his daughter's death was too much. He made that same claw motion that July always made with his palm facing his face almost like he was gouging out his eyes. Flickering wisps of light fluttered between his fingers, in a weird way it looked like Void Reach but flickering light instead of enveloping dark as it intensified and crawled down his arm.

Heavy thuds, tiny pops, cracking bone, and a shower of intermingling red blood and grey matter exploding outward. Xiax blinked as lifeless bodies fell down around him like someone had cut the strings to a bunch of puppets. Ham wasn't there, no wait there he was. Standing with his back mostly turned to Xiax, his face strained as he looked towards July. In the faint fleeting moment Ham appeared almost surrounded with a halo of light, and in that moment Xiax couldn't help but think he looked like an Archangel of Death and Grief.

Xiax lifted himself up from the dead body of the man he had tackled earlier, suddenly struck by a sense of vertigo that made him raise his hand to his head. He shook his head for a second to clear it, putting one foot in front of the other as he walked slowly unsteadily towards Ham and towards July. All he could smell was the wet scent of iron, Slaughternaut Indeed.

Above their heads, the group could hear the heavy yet hushed plodding of boots; and the hushed echoes of the same, strange language that all bandits had been speaking in. What was it, what was it? A voice called out, heavily accented, but in the common tongue. "We know you're down there, rats- Come out nice and slow." The voice spoke in a sneer. "We've got your exits surrounded, so don't try anything- and we've got enough blades and bullets to put you and those dregs in body bags." There was a cackle above them, not the same voice, but a chorus of different ones. It sounded like a crowd; a tragically large once.

Claire froze. She listened to the men that surrounded them. She could see a few but not to many of them. She was hunched over, trying to keep from their view. How did they know they were down there? They had been as quiet as a mouse. They had also let no one escape from the room below so no one had been able to sound the alarm that she knew of. She sighed inwardly. She really needed Ham and July right now but they could do this. She had the people move back and beaconed for Zero to join her at the front. “They know we are here, Zero. I don't know how but there sounds like there are a lot of men here all of a sudden. They are threatening us, telling us to come out slow and not to try anything. What do you say? I want to hear your opinion before I make a decision.” Claire said.

Zero continued what she was doing for a few seconds. She moved forward towards Claire and in a gruff voice trying to sound more like a man says "We could try and stop them at the stairs just so long as their is no either no other wa down or one more set of stairs. Any more than one set of stairs will lead to problems with protecting everyone." Zero decided to move towards some boxes. "The names Theo not Zero by the way. Another option we have is moving boxes to block the exits or maybe we could try boarding it up, but I doubt that will work. I would say our best option is to defend at the stairs and kill them as they come down.

The voice waited. "Clocks tickin'. Tick Tock, Tick Tock." He was impatient. "Try to come up around the stairs and we'll just jump down on your heads, and run out the sewers and we'll smoke you out like the rats you are." Another chorus of laughter. "Also- we've got the high ground, unless you're too stupid to understand that that's a tactical advantage."

Claire nodded her head. That's not a bad idea. Here block these up. I am going to go out and talk with them. If I die, let Ham know I tried.” She said. Claire shuttered as they began to move some of the crates around to block the entrance. She didn't know what kind of powers these men had and coming from above wouldn't help them. She could at least offer the man in charge a fight to the death. The winner getting the slaves back to keep. Now she could use her armor. This no armor thing wasn't going to be easy. She steps out from behind the crates. “Who's in charge?” She looked around the room. There were quite a few men here. Stepping out was probably the wrong thing to do, but she knew it was better then doing nothing.

Zero helped move some of the boxes, trying to make room to quickly move the boxes to make space for Claire if things go south. Which seemed like it would happen. Hearing what Claire said she looked around in the boxes for weapons, she knew the likely hood of finding some was slim to none. Any weapons would help, not a good chance of finding any down here though. Zero didn't find any weapons in the boxes, like she had expected. Her only option if things went down hill was to try and defend the stairs, they seemed like only one person could fit going down them. That would make it easier to defend. Sure they had the high ground, but they couldn't get them down here fast enough to surround her. The best case scenario was that there was only about 10 men upstairs, worst case was the world exploded or there were more than 10. Though Claire could handle 10 men if it was one on one or even two on one. Zero just wasn't sure how Claire would handle the situation. Either they could get out of this or they couldn't it would all depend on the next few moments.

"Ahhh, there one of 'em is!" The man had tanned skin, ruddy, red- with hair yellow and light as lemons. He wore a luxurious green overcoat, under which as a leather belt, laden with pouches, a dagger, and a sword. "I want all of you out here. And I do mean all of you. Gotta check to see if all of the merchandise is still in one piece." He gave a wolfish grin, leaning over the banister, flanked by two bandits. "As for who's in charge here, that'd be me little miss. Names Ifrah, Oiyaz sent me after one of our little guard detail failed to report in. You hero types just never learn."

Zero didn't know what to do. She could go up with the slaves they were trying to rescue, or wait and try to ambush them. That would be if they came down to see if they had all their slaves up there. The point was, could she get away with being down here or not? If she could then sneaking behind them would be easy. It not then things could go south real quick. This would be the "what if" game, not many people can win that game. Zero had to decide quickly before things get out of hand. Zero looked the group of slaves and quietly said in her gruff somewhat male voice, "I'm going to let you guys up there. I will follow behind you guys when they start to leave with you. Once that happens, I'm going to try and kill the guards one by one without them knowing. Don't let them know I'm down here. If they do head down here to check to see if everyone did go, don't let them know I'm here. The goal will be to kill them before things get out of hand. When I give the signal, which will be me yelling run, run down the hallway and try to find something to hide behind. I will try to get them from there with Claire." I hope they the guards do check down here, it will make it easier to kill them in the end/[i]

Claire raised an eyebrow. "I don't know if I can allow you to take these people back. They are not slaves but humans just like you and me." She said. Though it didn't matter, the slaves were coming up and standing behind her as if giving up. "Are these people what you're after? I won't let you have them without a fight." She didn't know what Zero had up her sleeve.

The man gave an unamused, breathy 'huh', peering down at Claire. "Horseshit. That's what that is. It's the way of the world sweetheart, they're mud slinging peasants- the only thing they'd ever do is eat, shit, fuck and die. At least this way their existence benefits someone. [i]Us." He held his arms up as two bandits jumped over the railing, landing feet first in the courtyard, swords drawn. "Now, Oiyaz is an....understandin' man. You fork over the slaves, nice and easy, we won't put a collar on you too. Besides, doubt anyone would pay much for one of that Justice bitches pets. That'd be a damn death wish in these parts. Dunno why they're so afraid of a hag like that anyway- last lackeys she sent to wipe us out weren't even able to finish the job." He waved his hand dismissively. "I'm gonna give you one last chance little lady, as my pa raised me better than to hit a lady unprovoked. Give 'em up."

Claire sucked in her breath as a few of the slaves walked in front of her. "I won't let you win. " She said as she drew her sword. "These people deserve a life of freedom. Also I won't have you talking about my friends like that. " She said as she pointed her sword at the man. .

Zero could hear what was going on up the stairs. Was it the right moment to go up though? Probably not, the best moment would be once the fighting started. She could go up in the confusion and start killing them. The problem though, would the fight start with the slaves in the middle or not? Me and Claire won't hurt the slaves, but they might. They can always get more, but it would hurt their profits if the slaves got hurt or anything bad happened to them. Zero decided to hide in the shadows of the boxes, maybe one or two of them will come down here and she could lower their numbers a little. If not she was at least close enough to go up the stairs when or if the fighting started.

The man sighed, making a gesture with two fingers. "Suit yourself, then." The two bandits on the ground were joined by two more. "Kill them." The first two lunged at Claire, as the other two held back, pacing in a semi circle around her.

Claire stood in a defensive stance. "Get back everyone. No one needs to get hurt in this fight that belongs to us." She said. Four against one didn't seem fair enough to her but if she needed to turn into her bear form, she would do it with no second though. At least it would give her a fighting chance. She swung her sword at the first man and tried to keep her back back covered so that she would be kept half way safe at least.

Zero peered around the boxes to look up the stairs. She was secretly hoping that none of them were looking down here, to which it didn't seem like they were. Just wait to hear the clash of swords. Once that happens they will more than likely not be paying any attention to the stairs.

The sword clipped the man as he danced away, spitting out a foreign word that sounded rather insulting. The other lunged for Claire's less guarded side as her swing reached its end; his strike was shallow, quick, not strong like hers- his combat style seemed focused on being nimble rather than heavy,

Claire jumped back to keep from being hit. She didn't have her armor to defend her. This was going to be hard. She bought her sword up to defend herself against the man that had swung to strike her to defend against him, leaving her front side open again. She would have to do something fast if she wanted this to end between them.

Looking up the stairs Zero could see a guy moving in a crescent shape. He seemed to be moving around someone. This might be that chance that I need. Zero slowly crept up the stairs trying to be silent, she held her sword at the ready in front of her. The only option she had was to stay and wait for something to happen. Who knows what would happen if she didn't go know. This was a risk, but at the moment all the options were risks. She continued up the stairs, waiting for the guy at the top of them to stop moving. He seemed to stop and lunged forward for an attack.

This was going to be as good of an opening as any. She crept up the stairs going a faster than before. Once she got near the top she peered over the banister and looked through to see what was going on. Trying to not be spotted. She hadn't seen going down what the stairs had looked like, now that she could see it was more open than she had originally thought. It was going to be a better idea to wait in the shadows further down the stairs.

The assailant danced backwards, spinning their sword over the back of their hand. A freed young woman, with messy, curly brown hair crawled up beside Zero. "Lemme see!" She whispered harshly, peeking up over the edge. A soft gasp escaped her lips as she watched one of her rescuers become encircled by bandits. Two of them shot a glance to each other and lunged at Claire, swords at the ready.

Claire dropped down and spun her sword around. She was in danger as they both attacked her. She needed a moment to get into her bear form. At least then she would have armor and would have the strength to go against two of these men at once. She would at least fight until the very end to free these people. She looked around her and saw them coming again. One on each side of her. She swong her sword in an ark to at least stop one of them as she dipped down to keep the damage from the other blow to a minimum.

Zero looked to her left to see one of the people they were trying to free next to her, also peeking over the edge. "If you are going to peek over the edge you should try not have your head to far above the edge." Zero whispered in her gruff voice trying to give this woman advice on being sneaky. "By the way, who are you? Not many people would want to see people fight. Especially after going what you people must have gone through. Though guess I can't blame you for wanting to either. It would be exciting to see people try to save you." Zero also whispered to this woman beside her. Hmmmm. "Can you fight or use magic at all?" Zero whispered hoping that they would have another person to fight by their side.

The two men danced back, with one getting receiving a gash across his stomach which caused him to flop backwards in pain. A string of foreign words escaping his mouth The young woman looked at Zero, gazing at her incredulously, eyebrow raised. Were they really trying to strike up a conversation as their friend was being attacked? "Well I obviously have a very vested interest in this situation," She whispered back, returning her gaze to Claire. "Seeing as how if you fail I and all my companions will get crammed back into cages." She furrowed her brow. They were mages, right? Had to be! "No," She almost scoffed at the question. "If I was do you think I would have been taken in by these...bootlickers...scumbags.." She grumbled. "We're all just regular people, none of us can really fight, and none of us are mages."

Claire had managed to hit one of the men. She stands up and steps forward as she brings her sword down towards the man in front of her. She had received a wound on her side from the blade before. It wasn't as bad though and she would fight through it. She would get him off of her and then switch into her bear form.

"Dang, I was hoping that you could fight. Having a distraction so I can get around to where their leader is would be good. I can't get to him from here without them noticing me. I could try and change weapons, but I'm the best we have at fighting out of the five of us... Zero won't be back for about a day anyway. So I can fight my way to him, or sneak around. Sneaking won't work, but fighting might... It'll be now or never." Zero whispers to no one in particular.

The two men circling who, those who hadn't attacked yet, shouted something at the downed man; who then tried to struggled to his feet, to little avail. But, still, he was persistent. If Claire wanted to get a break from their attacks, she'd have to finish the other one soon. The girls expression twisted even further as the girl started babbling nonsense. Zero? And who was she suggesting be distraction? Was she mental? Talking to herself? Whatever, at least the other woman seemed in a right sort, but she was currently under attack. The girl looked antsy...there were more of them then there were of the bandits...but still....

Claire rushed forward with her sword at the man. She couldn't understand what they were saying since they were speaking in the different language. She slashed with her sword and continued pushing forward, hoping that she could take him down with strength. She wondered what Zero was doing or if she had a plan.

Zero peeked over the edge again, to see that the only person close enough to her was Claire. Zero knew that if she didn't so something soon bad things would happen. She could always charge into the fray, but how well would that work to get them out of this? She could throw a stone and hope that people turn their heads so she sneak by them. The only other option would be trying on one of the guard outfits and seeing if they fit. Not that it would work now. "Stay here, I might have an idea." Zero wispered to the woman next to her. Zero went back down the stairs to find a stone that she could throw. She then went back up the stairs to where she was orginally, and checked to see if anyone was focused on the stairs. It didn't seem like anyone was though. Zero went down the stairs again and tried to throw the stone about 45 degrees away from the wall on her left turning to her right to do so. She couldn't see where it landed, but she went back up the steps to take a look and see what was going on.

The blade caught the mans arm and he reached up to grasp the wound on instinct. The two others rushed Claire, as the fourth struggled to his feet. Things were looking rather grim for her, two on one, soon to be three on one, soon to be FOUR on one.

'A rock?' The girl thought. 'That's her plan? Seriously?' She wasn't going to let herself, nor anyone else, be thrown back into a cage because this scrawny whoeverthefuck thought a rock was a valid strategy. She gripped her severed chain in her hand, looking back at her fellow almost freedmen. 'On my signal' she mouthed, and most of them looked confused. But still, they readied themselves, gripping chains and whatever else they could get their hands on.

She saw the two men falling upon her savior like hawks, and sprang to her feet at the top of the stairs, pushing her chain wielding fist into the air.

"THEY CAN'T KILL ALL OF US!" She bellowed, ferocity and rage spitting from her mouth like fire; wrath in her eyes. "CHARGE!"

And just like that, the swarm of newly freed slaves rushed into the courtyard, armed with chains, and broken planks of wood.

"Shit, SHIT! Don't shiv the slaves! They're valuable merchandise!" He hissed as more bandits flung themselves over the fence only to be swarmed, beated and choked by their former 'property'. Two ragged looking women pulled one man away from Claire, an older man armed with a chain put the other in a choke hold. A young woman set to beating the man on the ground into submission, and the girl leader set her chain around the neck of the one with the arm wound. It was a madhouse, but at least Claire had a moment to breathe.

Claire had gone down under the pressure of so many people on her. Two was enough, but the third...no there was now a fourth man there. She could hear voices coming from the stairwell. Were the people coming to save her? She stood up as they pulled the men from around her. “Thank you! It gives me a chance to use my magical ability!” Claire said. She dropped her sword and raised her arms up into the air. She roared out and began to turn into an armored grizzly bear. She had her eyes set on the men in front of her. If the people could take care of the men they had now, she could take care of the rest. She took the two nearest men and bashed their heads in together and then threw their bodies away. She roared in the melee of people as she rushed into the crowed of men before her.

Well there goes stealth. Zero charged up the stairs and ran trying to get a head of the people and to the leader of this group. If she could do that, she could get them out, well maybe. That would depend on how things went from here. She charged around the mob trying to find a good way to get to him. There didn't seem to be one. In the end, Zero decided to charge straight forward slashing at anyone that was a guard or wasn't in ragged clothing.

Ifrah growled as he saw Claire turn into a fucking bear, as his men got pummeled by fucking slaves let by some trollop common bitch. He pulled out his sword, pointing it at Claire.

"You're mine he hissed." Jumping down and watching as the crowd parted like the red sea to make a path to Claire. They knew him- and if they weren't afraid of his lackeys, they were afraid of him.

As they damn well should have been.

"I'm going to make a pelt out of you."

Claire roared at the man. She landed on all four paws and rushed at him as fast as she could. She was a little slower in this form, but she could still do the damage of a bear. She jumped when she got close to him and used her paw to swipe at his sword. She wanted to knock it out of his hands. A sword would be a dangerous weapon, but if she could get in close she could make this a one man fight.

Ifrah danced back, letting her claw catch the blade of his sword as she knocked it from his hand.

The girl, staring in awe at the woman warriors ursine form saw him reach back, to pull something from his belt.

She saw a metallic glint-

"Look out!" She cried, lunging through the crowd, for the mans arm. She managed to pull it high in the air, years of physical toil making her strong enough to wrestle with him.


"You- let me go, slave! You bitch, you-" He reared his fist back, punching her in the side of the face, the abdomen, trying to pull her grip off his gun.

"Get him! Get him!" She shouted at Claire, absorbing the punches, squinting her eyes under the force of his blows.

Claire watched as the metallic object fell to the ground, a gun. If a bear could look look angry, her looks would kill. The woman was being beaten by the man and Claire gave it no second thought as she charged in and grabbed him by the head. She lifted him up and watched as the woman fell to the ground. She pulled him close to her mouth and growled at him before roaring. She was angry and she was letting him know it. She threw him to the ground and began to maul him to death with her fangs.

The man screamed, a horrible terrible scream, that caused everyone around to stop and stare. The girl had landed on her behind, and scrambled away as she saw the man being mauled, mauled like he deserved. Her breathing was shallow, her heart beating out of her chest. Ifra scrambled, kicking and trying to get the bear off him. His strangled cries became muted as blood filled his lungs- his kicks grew weaker, his blows less fierce- until his blood, his life, had completely drained out of him. When the screaming stopped, all that was left was silence.

Claire roared out with red rimmed eyes. The throws of battle raging in her eyes. She looked around but there were only four men left. They were being beaten on by slaves. She raised her paws into the air and roared and slowly turned back into a human. She was huffing for breath and covered in blood. She walked over and picked her sword up and walked over to the first man that was choking for breath. She nodded for the man to remove his bonds from around his neck. Before he could even attack. She swung her sword and cut his head off.

Zero twisted and pulled her sword out that was one of the few remaining people. She looked around. Seemed like everyone they came for was ok. It turned out better than she had expected. They did have numbers on their side, but that can beat skill. If you have enough people. She walked up to Claire. "Where to now?" Zero said, it would be hard to go unnoticed with all the racket they just caused and with all the people they now had.

The girl stood as the last few bandits were killed, looking around. She heard murmurs.

"How are we going to get back?" One man said. "We're starving, weak, we can't possibly make it on foot."

She piped up. "There are carts towards the back? By Oiyaz's office! I heard Ifra talk about storing them there. I'm sure we can find horses!" She stood, looking at Claire as if for encouragement.

Claire nodded her head. “That is probably a good idea, however first we have to wait for our friends. After that I'm sure we can get some carts and horses for you. I don't think you could travel far in your condition either.” She said. She turned to look for Zero. “Zero, we should head for the gate and wait there for the others as planned. We don't know what Ham has up his sleeve.

"Incoming!" A freed man shouted, him and a few others staring pensively at the opening gate, coming to his feet as the rest of the group looked for food, supplies and carts. "And that-" He squinted his eyes. "Doesn't look like a bandit.

This wasn't exactly what Ham had meant by waiting but there were at least less guards to deal with, now. There had been a stable in the courtyard, and he had heard the commotion from the fight as they set the unconscious companion in one.

"What happened here?" Ham looked down from his position behind the reigns at the gape jawed villagers staring at him in a mixture of shock, awe and bewilderment. He saw a girl push her way to the front- Was she the leader?

She pointed her finger resolutely back towards where Claire was, taking a big inhale before-

"Those two freed us and killed the bandits in the dungeon and we all got out but then we got ambushed and the Claire lady went out to confront them but the blonde lady stayed behind and didn't do anything even when four whole bandits went to attack her friend and we were all scared and if we didn't do anything she would have died and blonde lady was throwing rocks and talking to herself and acting all weird and we beat up all the bandits and they're dead now and-" She took a good, hard look at his face, the way he was dressed- the younger woman hunched over behind him looking back at her from beneath her cowl. "AnywayI'mSifaandIknowwhoyouare." Her face went a deep burgundy under her tousled mane of brown hair.

This was Hamlet Napolitano! These- these were Infinity Edge people! And she was being rescued by Hamlet Napolitano!

Ah, so she was the leader. He smiled down at her. "It seems you all put on quite the fight. A valiant act, indeed. I'm sure Claire is indebted to you and your bravery."

Her blush deepened and she stammered. "I-Uh- I- we owe her! She turned into a bear. Big and fuzzy and covered in armor and it was so cool and she mauled Ifra! And-" She was staring up at him in impish awe. "I ha- My sister has a poster of you in her room."

Ham refrained from raising an eyebrow and instead nodded down at her. "Tell your sister I'm flattered. There are carts back through the courtyard. Hopefully enough to carry most of you; is anyone here familiar on how to drive one?" Ham saw several hands shoot up, as he expected.

"Excellent."

--

Once all the villagers had been safely evacuate, far away from the confines of the fort, Ham looked between his sister and Claire.

"Now, make sure none of them wander off, stay as a group- I'm going in to demolish this place. I shouldn't be long." He saw the spite on July's face- he knew she wanted to do it, but she was currently being tended to by one of the few folk here who had medical training- and refused to leave the cart in which he'd set Xiax. She was like some pissed off, territorial mammal. With some very nasty injuries.

Like hell he was letting her go back in there. She didn't even argue as he turned to leave; he doubted she had it in her.

--

Luckily for Ham, and unluckily for the bandits- they had a rather fine stockpile of very explosive munitions. Gunpowder and cheap moonshine were all he needed to turn this place into a powder keg. He searched for all the liquor he could fine- charting liquid trails back to their powdery reserves, alongside conveniently placed wicks. He was sure these bandits had no idea what half the things they had stolen were for- they stole just to steal- just for the excess.

During his sneak around- he found a box, a very familiar box. He debated whether he should take it- not like he much wanted it anyway- and what good would it do anyone blown up.

But stolen goods left a bad taste in the mouth.

Ham turned to leave, but swiveled around at the last second, snatching it and tucking it in his vest.

July had better appreciate this damned thing.

--

July jolted at the thunderous sound of the explosion. She'd been- for lack of a better word- pouting on the seat of the cart, observing the hustle and excited bustle of the freed slaves, keeping a watchful eye on Xiax and his now crushed trash bin backpack. She even saw a few of them shirk away from her sharpened gaze- she wasn't pissed at them she was pissed at....Fuck, a lot of things.

But now all eyes turned to see the fireball that was formerly Ri Alteneas. She stood, the wood of the cart creaking beneath her feet.

She knew her brother was okay- that he'd never let himself be caught in something he himself caused. But madness bred paranoia and Mesmerize's effects were still crawling back away from her brain.

It was why she felt so glad when she saw her brothers silhouette approaching them through the underbrush. He raised his hands to his shoulders- as if in a small gesture of victory.

This was apparently enough to hype the crowd- with a small number starting a round of applause as Ham shook his head, rejoining them. Basking in shakes, friendly jostles and pats on the back.

That was Ham. The hero.

She didn't want to be spiteful about it- but she was. She could have fucking handled it- but now here was Ham, taking all the credit for fixing her mistakes.

Again.

Just as she sat down once more in the cart, she felt something hard gently wap against her arm.

"Here-" Ham was right next to her, looking at her with a smile- full of what, pity? Regret? "I hate the damn things but I know you had a weakness. Enjoy."

He gently patted her shoulder- Walking off to go be Hammy doing Ham things. She furrowed her brows at him as he walked away before looking at what she'd been given. Her eyes grew wide. These were Venitian Cigars! Rare as tits with half the bad smell. Smelled like home- the good bit of home. Eskel had loved the damn things, as had the women in The Golden Cat. The airy rose like smoke that had wafted through the ornate rafters the background scenery of some of the best times of her childhood.

Her furrowed brow turned into a reluctant, subtle grin as she looked up at her brother as he mounted his horse.

Ham figured with these villagers needing an escort and July and Claire needing medical attention; he'd have to make a detour. "Saddle up, and keep pace! We ride for Aer Town!"

'For White Cross.'

Digging Site 3h~8h30PM

**This is a collab between me and Leah7**

(ATTN : Opened ish to Lark if he's somehow stalking =p, closed otherwise)

Ryla moved over to the ruins she found a little earlier once again, but this time with her new guildmaster and Rodimus. As they approach the hole she did a little earlier, Ryla smiles to the supervisor who was keeping watch with two of his men. ''Heyyy I'm back !''

''Glad to see you back !  I had words of the new guildmaster arriving today, you seem to match the description given to me. Nice to meet you, I'm Peter, supervisor of the digging site here. '' He said toward Iasrite. He then looked toward Rodimus and smiled. ''Good to see you again pal.''

Rodimus and Iasrite both nod and politely give greetings as Rodimus nudges Iasrite a little to edge him a little closer to the site manager.  He can tell the guy is social awkard, a bit, so he is trying to help.  Iasrite smiles, "Hello, Peter.  I am Iasrite.   How are the ruins progressing?"

''Very well sir. Although there is still a lot more to cover. However regarding the current ruin found we were waiting on someone of higher rank before touching anything. Ryla asked me to secure this part of the site and so I did. The honor to go inside is yours, we'll keep watch here. Right boys ?'' Both of his men nod.

Ryla already stepped toward the hole. ''This might be a bit tight for you guys, but it should still work.'' She said with a wink as she gets inside. ''Man I feel at home here.'' Ryla said from inside the ruins.
 
Iasrite gesutres for Rodimus to enter first and then follows, careful wait until the man is all the way through before starting his own descent through the hole.
Rodimus is quick to go through, well--quick for being squished, that is.  However, he coughs a bit when he gets some dirt in his throat.  After he takes some swigs from his water canteen from around his neck, he coughs a bit more and shakes his head as Iasrite looks at him with amusement.  They must think him such the amateur.

''Oh no ! You okay Roddy ?''  She asked a little bit worried.

Rodimus waves his hand dismissively as he tags another drink as Iasrite chuckles a bit, but he glares at the man, just ever so briefly before he replies, "Yeah.  Where next?"

''We're pretty much inside already, but the next room is more like it. '' She said as she started to walk toward the other room  that seemed one of the many small room there was. ''Tada !''

Rodimus looks around, but Iasrite is already mumbling under his breath and moving about with great speed, analyzing this and that.  He's using all these weird terms as he shifts throughout the place and it's all completely over Rodimus' head.  He's a bit confused by it all, but he doesn't really care.  He is here to be the muscle, so he can do that much.

Ryla chuckles at the sight of her guildmaster behavior. ''Having fun ?!'' And then she turned toward Rodimus who looked a bit bored. ''Sorry didn't mean to bore ya with those ruins, but yeah it's still pretty cool to see ruins from old generations and stuff. We can sometimes depending on what was left behind find pretty amazing information about previous lives who used to live here. ''
 
"Oh, no," Rodimus says, "I think it's cool.  I just don't know what I'm doing, so I'm being careful not to mess up the uh...scene of the uh...ancient crime--not crime.  Stuff."

Ryla let go of a small laugh. ''I'm sorry your explanation was funny, but I understand completely. You can walk around really there's no problem in that, just don't touch things that may seem to have weird glyphs. We never know if something would still hold magic. But aside from that you can look around ! '' She then approached her guildmaster again. ''Iasrite to earth ?! I am requesting an audience to communicate something of great importance.... ! ''

Iasrite looks up immediately, but he sounds lost as he says, "...yeah?"

''So......What do you think so far ?! '' She said in excitement.
 
"It's fantastic," Iasrite says quickly, his eyes darting everywhere, "There are three new glyphs here, two new religious-styled symbols.  And this is just one of the smaller rooms.  Can you imagine what the rulership guidance room looks like?  With the council thrones?"

''Yes ! It must be quite impressive to see !! '' Ryla said looking enthusiastic. She looked at the symbols he pointed out more carefully although she did notice a few things earlier, she was too busy trying to start up a reaction. She focused to try and understand those glyphs before her. ''Mmm....''

Ryla mumbles a bit while focusing and then whisper three words very quietly to herself. ''....mind......spirit....body....?.....Mmmm....''

"I am surprised at how much is still intact.  How did you find this place, Ryla?"  Iasrite asks.

Ryla came out of her focus and said ''OH ... I pretty dig through and found it really. When I went through the wall slightly I recognized the style right away so I made a hole big enough to pass without damaging too much. ''

"Excellent work," he says, looking at another doorway before viewing more of the glyphs.  He points to the one glyph on one of the pillars, "We believe this one means, soul.  Why would they put that in their entries?  Was this some kind of meditation room?"

''You can read those ? '' Ryla said looking surprised as she was reading it too, but she wasn't sure if she should mention she could or not. ''Maybe it is ? '' Although she was also wondering if it had something to do with how some of them became the keys.

Iasrite looks over at Ryla, "Well...I have studied the glyphs extensively.  I would hope I can read some of them."

''Oooh well that's pretty cool ! '' She couldn't help, but wonder what kind of reaction the guy would have if ninth suddenly started to talk to him. He'd probably be going fanboy for sure. Ooooor freak out. ''Soo... you've been studying shazeer stuff for how long ? I don't know necessarily a whole lot, but I saw enough to recognize when it's shazeer related ish. ''

"Too long," Iasrite says vaguely, pointing to the columns, "You notice this room, for instance?  It's like...a gazebo...inside of a room.  The columns aren't necessary.  The ceiling here has plenty of support, but there they are, anyway.  With glyphs.  So they must have served a purpose."

''Yeah I see what you mean, I saw similar things in the other ruins I saw before, except those were just a giant room basically. But it had pillars too with glyphs and some kind of circle thing, was weird, but fun to see.... well except for the part where a murderer tried to kill me and ... well my friend. '' Her look get sad for a few seconds while thinking back on Sheridan, but she shake the thought away or tries to anyways.

''Well I say this like that cause he broke in the ruin killing some guild members and exploded the entrance to it cause he was insane, buuuut I smacked him good enough that we managed to get him into custody.... but thinking back... I have no clue what happened to the freak after since erm.... chain of events made so we never returned to the guild till recently. Although in the case of my friend.... he died in the storm event... '' She said looking sad again before returning to the main story.''But yeah I dunno what was up with that guy, but it looked like he was looking for something in the ruins we found. '' Though Ryla wasn't sure it was a good idea to bring back the shazeer link thing on the table although she had tried to explain that slightly when she first met Rodimus.

"Oh!"  Iasrite says, "I recall Miriam mentioning this to me.  I am very sorry this happened to you, Ryla.  At least now, we can be sure it will not happen again.  I am thinking we should have larger dig teams to prevent it from happening again.  Safety procedures."

''Mmm, yeah that could be something. But that guy attacked the wrong gurl teehee.'' Ryla said proudly. ''Though yeah it was slightly scary, especially that my friend at the time was uncuncious for a while too. It was hardcore. But yeah safety procedure to avoid freaks like him could be nice indeed. Although I do tend to get carried away in digging and often end up a bit further then the teams. '' She said with a sigh. ''But yeah long story short, the other room had pillars like this, but on a bigger scale.''

"Yes, a ritual room," Iasrite nods, "We have never documented an intact one.  Though, Miriam said this was the first one discovered, I have yet to be able ti view it myself.  I look forward to that adventure."

''Oh it was pretty impressive, there was even a shazeer mummy ! Though I dunno if they kept it there after or if they moved it to check more details and stuff. '' She said with a smile.
 
"Miriam has the place closed for now," Iasrite says, "Upon my request.  I'd like to make sure there will be no further intrusions before sending out our architects.  I intend to go myself."

''Sounds good, I don't know when I'll come back, but if I do before you head out I wouldn't mind to accompany you there.'' She said with a smile. ''If not, I hope you'll have a nice trip there and that everything will go smoothly.''

Iasrite returns the topic to the ruins they are currently in, "Have you done a room count?"

''Not yet... but I know there's quite a few. I did a quick look around earlier, but I thought I'd notify people before doing anything more. So no I didn't count at the time sadly.'' She said poking her index fingers together.

He nods, "You count, I'll do a quick recovery scan.  After that, we can decide where we want to start."

''Okies... and recovery scan ?'' She wondered what he was talking about and she tilt her head slightly to the side as she said that.

"Search for artifacts."  Iasrite says.

''Oh right !'' She hit herself on the head slightly as if saying silly. ''I'll get to it then !'' She then went around and started counting the rooms one by one, taking notes as she went on a notepad she brought in her bag.

Rodimus follows Ryla at a distance as Iasrite begins to search for artifacts, magical objects of any kind, written scriptures, etc. and slowly starts to mark them with a numbered flag as he slowly makes his way about to find anything that would be considered culturally relevant and recoverable by the Guild.

After some time passed, Ryla came back to him and said ''I counted 18 rooms !'' She said happy toward her guild master.

"Oh, a small one," He replies softly as he contemplates one of the new glyphs, "Interesting.  No ritual room, to be sure.  A shame, that.  Did you see a rulership chamber?  I doubt it, but I figure I'd ask."

Ryla shake her head. ''Nope sadly. Otherwise you most likely would have heard me squeal. How about you ? Did you find anything interesting ?''

"Nothing, just the new glyphs.   I wonder what this place was for..."  Iasrite tells himself.

''Mmmmm... It's hard to tell. '' She replied.

Iasrite nods, "Then I will study the writings.  I will try to find more of their meanings."


They continued their for some time, until they decided to call it a day and go outside of the ruins. As they walk a bit further outside of the dig site, Ryla turns to Iasrite and says ''Well, that's where I'm capturing Rodimus ! '' With a wink and smile, she then turned to Rodimus and said ''Right ?! ''

"Yeah," Rodimus says with a small laugh, "Iasrite, will you be cataloguing the place?"

"Yes," Iasrite says simply, "I thank you both for introducing me to this find.  It has been a fine day."
 
''You're welcome ! Also as I said earlier, I'll be leaving tomorrow. I won't be back for a bit, but I'm sure you'll manage and be fine ! Give the guild some time, they'll like you I promise !'' She said to Iasrite with a big smile.

Iasrite nods, "Of course, miss.  I shall.  Do send my regards to White Cross.   I'll...have much to discuss with you on your return."

Rodimus shakes his head, "Man, you're so stiff.  Relax."

''Okay sounds good, although that return could be in like.... I really don't know how much time. '' She said scratching her head. ''But yeah no probs ! I'll see ya ! '' She grabs Rodimus hand and start dragging him with her ''Let's goooo !!!! ''

Rodimus follows after a quick wave goodby to his fellow Guild Master, shaking his head with a grin as he is amused at her behavior.  This girl is a handful.  Still, he's got to help with this.  It's a big deal.  Char can keep things running in his absence and he's made sure of that.  He's already got a travel pack, so it all works out.   "I'm comin', I'm comin'."

Ryla's home - 9h

''Yeaaah ! '' She exclaimed happily. ''To home it is !'' They walked to her place and it seemed that her uncle was already asleep for his own trip on the next day. At least his room was upstairs. ''This way !'' She asked Rodimus to follow her to her lab and closed the door behind her.  The curtains on the window were already covering them by default so she didn't need to do that. ''So um..... I got a bit more taboo information.... '' She said with a sigh. ''I kind of feel bad keeping this from him though, but I'm not sure how much I can share with him toward that topic. Can I talk to you about it ?.....'' She asked looking a bit serious once again.

Rodimus blinks, "Um, sure.  You're not a serial killer, are you?"

Ryla chuckles and said ''No don't worry... it's just .... it's about the keys and shazeer.... well ... hold on. '' She turns around and slip her hand inside her suit to eventually find the bad key she found in the ruins and take it out. ''So..... that thing here gave me a vision. I know this used to be a key, but is nomore... and I also know.... that a soul was sacrificed to make this.... Only.... since it used to be a key I don't know how dangerous it may or may not be... but I was thinking on burying it for the soul of of this key to rest in peace.... I kept it from Iasrite, because I know he knows a lot, but I'm not sure how much he knows on that side... nor if it's okay to talk to him about me knowing some things I shouldn't.... '' Ryla sighs, not sure what to do.


"Iasrite is aware," Rodimus says, nodding his head, "But I understand your hesitance.  I must say, I've never seen an inactive key before.  However, Iasrite claimed to have seen one, once.  When the council asked for it, he refused to show it, so many doubted his words.  Now, I do not...


''I see... '' Ryla sighs and hesitate. ''I'm not fully sure of what I should do to be honest. Since he's aware and stuff I could ask him to do it, but I'm not exactly sure how I would bring it up.''

"Hmm..."  Rodimus wonders, "How were the 'new keys' made?  Is someone...killed to make these?"<


''I'm not sure, but from what I saw with this one....it felt like someone sacrificed themselves for the better good..... It could be the same with the recent ones, but I'm not sure.....'' Ryla knew it was the case and that they were shazeer, but she didn't want to give away too much either to not get questioned on some info.

Rodimus scowls, "I see.  Hmm.  Well, I think you can trust Iasrite with this, but that's just me.  He's Ilyana's bro and well....let's just say he's considered taboo by most of the Unfortunate Thirteen--the way he uses his abilities and everything.  If you think you're on the top of their shit list, you're really not.  He's up there, himself."

''Alright... then perharps tomorrow before leaving we could go see him and stuff. It's a little late tonight to do this, plus I need to get my stuff ready. Thank you for listening and the advise on stuff. It's really helpful to have someone with little more knowledge on who is safe and who is not with that kind of information. I'll take some time to give him the key and request if he could make so it has a burial after observation. '' She said taking it back and hiding it at the same spot.

Rodimus sits down on the girl's bed, not really thinking about the 'inappropriateness' of it.  He ponders for a bit, wondering what's to be ahead of them.  The visit to White Cross will be some time from now.  It'll take a lot of time just to keep things going, but what happens when they get there?  There are still a lot of unanswered questions.  "Got it.  I'll head back to the Guild Hall and make sure to pack enough food and all that.  I am a little scared to learn about the old keys...I hope no one was murdered for these things."

Ryla nods and then she suddenly say ''OH ! ... with all this I completelly forgot to tell you why I'm going there. But yeah.... long story short I heard of someone with a similar power to mine. I was hoping I could get some help controlling mine through that guy. Soooo... I decided to go there as it is kinda something important to do. Sorry for the sudden change of topic, but I just remembered that I never said why. '' She then goes back to a serious mood. ''But yeah I am too, a little bit. But I think in a way we must be learning about it for a reason... perhaps to overcome some of our problems who knows. Either way if you want to come back here to crash you're welcome to. Unless you're crashing at the guild then.... I'll just come to you tomorrow morning. '' She said with a soft smile.

"Oh, sweet.  I'd love to crash here," Rodimus says, immediately moving off of her bed, "Just tell me where to park."

''You could use the bed in this lab if you'd like or the couch in the living room. Whichever is fine. I have my own room upstairs, I just happen to have another bed here.... cause I go overboard when doing lab stuff. ''


"Awesome, thanks.  I appreciate it, girl."  Rodimus replies, "Just wake me up when you're ready to go."

''Sounds good, have a good night, I'll go upstairs to get my stuff ready and go to bed myself.''

Next Day - 8AM~10AM / Ryla's home - Sherehazade Guild

Ryla wakes up at the sound of an agressive alarm and almost fall from her bed. ''WOAH !! ..... That was close...'' She exclaimed, carefully stretching to the alarm button. She then gets up and get dressed, making sure the keys are well hidden on her and okay.  She then brush her hairs and tie them up in her usual twin ponytails style. Taking her stuff, she walks downstairs and place her stuff near the door for better convenience when she'll go out.

She goes in the direction of her lab and finds out Rodimus sleeping and smiles. Trying to come up with a way to wake him, she decides to simply poke his cheek. ''Roddy ! Wakey wakey'' She continues poking his cheek while saying this.

Rodimus frowns in his sleep, rolling over away from the poking as he mumbles, "Go away, mom.  No more practice today."

Ryla pouts when Rodimus rolls over, but then makes a sheepish face and start trying to tickle him here and there. ''HOW'S THIS ?!'' She exclaims loudly as she attack the poor guy.

Roddimus growns, starting awake and sitting up as he grasps at the girls wrists in defense with wide eyes.   As he sees the wrongdoer, he does not threaten her with many deaths, but instead sighs.  She's lucky she's cute.  "Mornin'."

Ryla jumps as Rodimus grab her wrists ''EEeek !!!'' Ryla smiles slightly. ''Sorry.... tried poking you gently, but you wouldn't wake up. '' Ryla said while sticking her tongue out slightly.

Rodimus shakes his head, "Rude.  Alright, alright.  I'm getting up.  I'm...I hate mornings.  I really hate mornings."

''Aww sorry ! Well I'll make it up to you by getting your breakfast at the guild its on me ! Then we could go see Iasrite when we're done eating. But before that I'll let you get ready and stuff. '' She said with a smile.

Rodimus nods silently, but eventually drags himself from his bed, packing up his bag after freshening up and pulling out his flask to wash off his face just a little.   After that, he  changed his clothes and headed out so that they could head to the Guild.  Sheherazade always has great meals, but he's never been here for breakfast before.  After they head out to the Guild, he's quick to make his way to the main Hall with only a little chatter before he finds his way to order some good food before beginning to wolf that down.  He gets interrupted a lot, but he's used to it.  Guild Masters always get a lot of attention at Guild Halls.

Upon arrival, Ryla follow Rodimus to the food counter and cover fees for both of them. They then eat, with a lot of interuptions from others who wanted to speak to him, but she didn't really care and would let them chat while eating in her most .... unique of ways. When they were done, they moved upstairs and Ryla knocked at Iasrite's office door.

After eating and handing in his dishes, he walks with Ryla to the office of Iasrite, simply walking in without walking.  As expected, the man is leaning over his desk with a magnifying glass, peering down at some kind of runic layout that he has.  Unsurprised , he just says a simple "hey" to the man as he plops down into one of the chairs and Iasrite waves without looking up.

Ryla waves as she enters, but then close the door behind her gently. ''I hope you don't mind me closing the door.... but I need to talk about something rather serious. '' She said as she went ahead and grabbed a seat.

"Okay," Iasrite says, still looking at his papers.

''Well... truth is, I may not have been fully honest yesterday... but I had my reasons. I found something in the ruins and had a vision with it.... It's not the first time I get visions that give me a bit of insight about those either. I'm just weary of who I can speak about those to, Rodimus so far was the only one I spoke to about these.... but here...'' Ryla takes out the old rusted key that barely look like one anymore on Iasrite's desk.

Iasrite looks up, sees the key, and drops the magnifying glass.   He takes the key and smiles with a sense of familiarity as he looks back up to Ryla and then back down at the key.  "Another derelict key.  It needs to be buried.  This is good.  The souls will get rest when they are properly laid to rest.  Thank you for bringing this to me.   What did you see from it?"

Ryla couldn't help but be surprised by his full knowledge of it. She started speaking yet rather hesitant about it.''Well..... pretty much that it has a soul. Though I know in fact from the vision that it seems like good people sacrificed themselves for the better good. And I know of.... the keys existence in general because of earlier visions I got sometimes. I also saw that.... well erm.... gate again. Gives goosebumps...OH.... Also my vision did tell me about the name of this one. Avra of Light, a shazeer soul. My initial intention with it was also to bury it hoping to help the soul... although to be honest I'm not sure how to do it properly... so I was hoping you would. I'm sorry again I kept it hidden from you yesterday.... I just know keys are a dangerous topic as well...'' Ryla sighs and look at him a bit unsure of what his reply will be.

"That's okay," Iasrite says after contemplative hesitation, "I...used to talk about these things.  People called me crazy.  Weird.  Strange.  I learned not to talk about it at all, after a while.  Except to my sister.  Avra of Light....Avra of Light.  The Shazeer were a people of traditions and rituals.  Everyone had titles, rather than, last names.  I wonder what it meant to be of the Light."

''I'm not sure either... but yeah other reason I didn't want to talk about it is because I know its dangerous and did not want to bring it up if you might not have known about them. I know our guildmaster died because of one..... '' Ryla said with a sour face. ''It's nice to know I have another key buddy I can talk to though if I can put it this way. '' She said with a small smile. ''Oh yeah.... you like wanted to talk to me about something yesterday ?.... I have some time before I leave if you need to talk about it before I'm off to white cross. ''

Iasrite says, "Indeed.  He deserved a better death."

Rodimus cuts in, "He deserved no death at all.  I never should have made any of the other keys."

Iasrite looks at him with a raised eyebrow, "Of course you should have.  Rex chose his path.  As did you.  These protections are here for a reason.  The Gate must never be opened."

''Yeah.... I saw it more than once in visions and it's..... something. I don't want that thing to open ever.''

Iasrite makes a sound of agreement, "I did wish to discuss the Guild finds and...some of my own.  I have my own museum, of sorts, and I decided I should combine it into the one here.  I was told you're the best person to go to with assistance regarding the changes.  It is nothing that cannot wait until you return."

''Alright then, I'll look into those when I get back. Also I'm going to White Cross because I found out someone there have a similar power to mine. Not the vision one, the other thunderstorm crack one. I thought it'd be a good idea to head over in person and possibly get some tips from the person. Thought I would inform you as well about it since I completely forgot yesterday.'' She said with a small chuckle.

"Excellent, ability growth is always a great endeavor," Iasrite replies with a smile, nodding his approval.

''Yeah for sure, though I'm also worried about my lack of control over it. It's rather powerful and scary. The last thing I'd want is hurt innocent people soooo better go learn about it. But yeah.... also forgot to ask in advance, but I guess its okay if we borrow two horseys from the guild ? Would be a bit hard to travel without them teehee.'' Ryla asked scratching the side of her head.

"Of course, go ahead.  We have plenty remaining."  Iasrite says, "Do take care.  I am happy Rodimus will be with you."

''Thank you ! And I am too !! Roddy is awesome ! So yeah, let's go toward adventures !!!!!!!'' She said pointing toward the door with a big smile. ''Horseys here we come !'' she exclaimed walking out of the office.

As the girl rushes out of the room with joy, Iasrite blinks, looking over at Rodimus as he stands and raising an eyebrow yet again as he quietly inquires, "Roddy?"

Rodimus's face hardens, his eyes glaring as he leans in onto the desk and says, "You heard nothing.  You say nothing."

He makes his exit as Iasrite gives out a short "heh" in amusement, returning to his seat with an expression of disbelief.  That's new.  He doesn't usually let anyone give him nicknames, let alone something like 'Roddy.'   Wow.

Ryla moved downstairs with haste and looking just as happy as a kid would be when getting their birthday gifts. She stopped  downstairs and turned around to wave at Rodimus who was slowly coming. ''C'mon let's goooo !!!! ''

Rodimus, with his bag slung over one shoulder and a shake of his head, he smirks with amusement as he simply continues on and follows the overly-enthusiastic girl once more.  More and more as he spends time with Ryla, he feels older and older.  It is as if this woman has an unending pit of energy welled up somwhere in another dimension.    Ah, the joys of being younthful and having a whole life ahead of you...

They move out to the stables and it is there that he picks one of the fine horses--it isn't hard to do, because there's a Ferrum horse here--the very one he used to travel here.  They've taken good care of him while he stayed here...it feels as though he's been at Sheherazade for a long time, even though it's only been a short while in reality.   Funny how these things turn out.

After getting the horse ready, he looks over at the horse that Ryla has chosen.  His horse is black, which matches the Ferrum Guild symbol rather well upon the creature's beautiful sides.  He's curious as to what she has selected to ride and looks her and her horse over as he finished saddling up.

As Ryla arrive at the stables with Rodimus she look at the horses and seems to be looking for a specific one. ''MIMMiiiiiiiiiiiiiii !!!!!!!!!!!!'' She said with joy as she hugged the female horse with a big smile. The horse was white with brown spots here and there. Mimi looked happy to see her and tried to get her head closer to Ryla. ''GOOD HORSEY !! We'll go on an adventuuuuuuuure today !!! '' She said happily while petting her. ''Rodimus meet Mimi ! She cute, strong and has a lot of stamina. And she gives hugs ! '' She started preparing her and placing her stuff on the back of the saddle.

"Hello, Mimi," Rodimus says happily, "An excellent choice, she's very beautiful.  This is Forge.  He's good, but sometimes overly protective.  However, he's very obedient."

''Teehee ! He's a really cute horsey too !'' Although Mimi wasn't too tall for a horse, Ryla was still struggling a bit to strap some of the middle straps of the bag. ''C'monnnn'' She said stretching to reach the strap. She then look toward Rodimus and said ''May I borrow your extra inches of tallness ?! '' Ryla asked with a serious face.

Rodimus is already heading over there, as Forge is already ready to go.  He helps to close up the straps for Ryla as well as offers to assist her with getting on top in the saddle by providing a knee for her to step up on.  He's had to do that a lot, especially for Viki--she's a really short girl in his Guild.  Tiny as hell, but deadly as sin.

''Weeee thank you !! You're so sweet'' she said gladly accepting the help to get on Mimi. Otherwise she would have been stuck for a few minutes trying. As she was on, she gave more love to her horse petting her on the neck. She waited for Rodimus to get on his before she started to advance. As he was she started to go with a tiny  jog. ''ONWARD !!!'' She said with a big smile.

Rodimus rides after her, feeling the wind of the movement rush through his core as they jog horseback away from Sheherazade and towards the future.   This is going to be a long ride, but a fun one, to be sure.  He has a lot to look forward to, to be sure.  Whatever happens, he's glad to be in good company.

White Cross Guild - 4PM~5h30PM

**This is a collab between me, Goetia and Leah7**

(ATTN : closed)

Nadleeh nods appreciatively, forcing herself to sit before she takes a drink from the bottle and attempts to focus on her breathing in order to steady it.  It's been a long day. It will be a long night.

Catherine nodded accordingly, playfully saluting toward Ryushi before walking off to meet Chiron

Ryushi turned to Nadleeh and said gently ''Are you feeling a little better ? Need anything else before we go downstairs ? I'm pretty much ready to go, but I want to make sure you're good before.''

Nadleh says, "Um," but she stops speaking.  She looks down at the book in her hand, ruffling its pages at the corner.  Then, she pats at her waist, feeling for her dagger.   She had both, so she had all she needed to fight them again.  However, she's still a bit shaky.

Finally, she shakily says, "Yeah.  Yeah, I'm good."

''Alright good to hear, let's go downstairs and see how many mobilized already.'' Ryushi said letting her pass before him and closing the door behind.

Eaden stayed on Ryushi's shoulder and observed as they came downstairs to see already a pretty big crowd gathered in the guild hall.

Moving on to the front, Ryushi waited for people to stop talking and then he started to speak up. ''Alright, I'm pretty sure some of you may have seen the quest poster I put up earlier, well priorities have changed. Seems like if we don't mobilize to protect the village before nightfall, it will be gone overnight. We need to use every manpower available for this quest as human lives are in danger. It was also reported that the main demon seen was one with asian clothing similar to the kind of clothing I have and have interest in woman. A few woman dissapeared from the village and it will be the priority of the front line group to try and save them as well as shut down the source. ''

He took a pause and then continued. ''We believe that the demon might have other weaker demons or spirit under his command as it seem like working alone would have been difficult. Be careful and opened but anything that could happen out there. So yes now that you know the detail of the request. We will have Three groups :

The offence and rescue group

The village defense group

And finally the group who will be looking after the guild. Chirron will be in charge of the village group as a doctor to also help with any villagers that might be hurt if it happens. Catherine will be in charge of the offence group as far as support goes. Each doctor will have at least 2 assists and 2 bodyguards.  

Amelia I'm entrusting the guild to you as always, Valentino you will be part of the defense group, no flirting allowed. Also Amelia I'll let you chose the few you think would be best fitting to stay with you at the guild. And I will lead the offence group along with Nadleeh.''

Amelia nods and start looking around the crowd and making a list.

Valentino shook his head and said ''Aye aye cap''

''So ! Since we are short in time I want everyone to prepare emergency supplies for the village, we'll resupply the guild tomorrow. Chirron and Catherine prepare your medical equipment, if you need help don't be shy to ask someone to help you. I'll also need some people to prepare the horses prompto. I want everything ready within 45 minutes top. GO !'' He ordered the guild and so everyone started to move very quickly everywhere.

Amelia approached him and said. ''I more or less made a list of everyone that was present while you gave your speech and made my choice on who stay and remove the names, I already notified them by whispering to them. You may feel free to use this list on the way to have an idea of how you'll split the group out there.

''Wow thank you so much, this is saving me a lot of trouble. ''

You're welcome ! Amelia said with a smile.

Nadleeh sighs, but she nods her head in compliance upon his orders.  Ryushi always knows what to do and he's never steered them wrong with any of his plans, yet.  She doubts that he's about to start, now.  She heads out of the main hall and up to her room, changing out her under clothing for new, fresh ones.

Her outer cloak is bloodstained, but that'll have to be cleaned later.  It'll just get nasty again tonight.  She feels less sweaty, at least.  Placing the cloak back on, she raises up the collar so that it covers the lower half of her face, like it always does.  Makes it hard to read her expressions, just how she likes it.  Gotta be mysterious, because that's half the class.

Finally, she moves back down to the Guild Hall, equipment in hand once more.  This time, she's confident, rather than shaky.  Her hair is freshly fiddled with, her intense eyes looking about to see everyone moving here and there with rushed preparation.  This is going to be a mess, but at least it'll save a town.

Catherine cackled under her breath once Ryushi announced she would lead the advancing support team. She could already sense the other nurses eyeing her with apprehension, wondering if they would be allowed the pleasure of staying at the guild or being commanded to follow her. Catherine turned to face the group of medics and healers who'd attended Ryushi's announcement. She called out 3 members who had magical healing abilities as well as excellent cardio. The 3 healers each sighed while reacting in their own way. One of them stormed up to Chiron visibly flustered.

"Chiron! She can't just order us like dogs! There's no way I'm walking into a battlefield with her!"

Chiron shook his head with a tired sigh. "I'm sorry, but as head nurse, she does have seniority. Also, I believe her decision is sound. You guys are capable healers as well as fighters. Even though Ryushi's team is meant to defend you, you can handle yourselves when things go bad."

"Uuuughhh!" The medic bellowed, walking off to pack his gear. The others followed suit, dragging their feet. Catherine grinned, happy Chiron was on her side.

"And as for you Catherine," Chiron put a firm hand on her shoulder. "Don't treat them like you treat your tools. They're human beings, not servants."

Catherine nodded, her glowing smile faded. She followed Chiron to the ward to prepare their items, returning to the lobby in a short span of time.

Ryushi also took the time to prepare his stuff as well as put on more fitting clothes for combat. He wore a top that closed like a kimono but had regular long sleeve and comfy pants that stopped slightly after his knees for better movement. They were a bit puffy and looked comfortable. He then attached his obi and put his bag with his exorcist tools on his back. He came back downstairs and went to to see how everything was progressing, helping where he could.

Before long, the 45 minutes passed quickly and they were ready to move on. Some carriages  had been loaded in supplies, some others were transporting people to use less horses.

Ryushi did a sign to Eaden that he was ready and this one transformed into its bigger bestial form. He got on his back and then told everyone ''Alright ! Everyone ! Follow me and Eaden !!!'' He said with determination as Eaden started to run ahead with the horses following suit behind him.

Nadleeh heads out with the party, horses already prepped, happily.  It won't take them long to get there--just a few minutes, really.  They placed the Guild Hall specifically to protect this tiny town, so that's exactly what they are going to do.  They ride full speed, taking no time to talk things out, but as they get closer, Nadleeh takes the lead, pointing off to one side of the town away from its main entrance.

Village near of White Cross - 6PM until dawn of the next morning

As they finally come to a stop, she is quick to drop from her horse, pointing out at two places with two index fingers, her arms out stretched in opposing directions before her.  One is to the town, the other to a large cavern next to it within a cliffside.

"The man with the kimono...he's in the town, but...I am pretty confident that the girls are in the cavern.  And I think they are possessed.  I was able to purify one girl, but there are several girls that are possessed by high-level entities.  I haven't even tried to enter the town.  That cavern alone is terrifying, it's filled with hordes of smaller demon spirits and it's going to take over this place really quick if we don't move fast."

Ryushi listens to Nadleeh and then look over his list. ''Alright then we'll need a solid group of offence on both sides, but a more solid one for the cavern. Me, Nadleeh and Eaden will lead for the cavern along with a few more support offense exorcist. '' He pointed out the people who would follow him and gave them the order to come with him and then he turned to the rest and said ''The rest will aid the villagers and confine the danger within the place. I leave the decisions to Valentino and Chirron. '' He knew Valentino could be serious when things were really bad and he trusted him regardless of his bad habits.

He turned to Catherine and asked ''Is your support group good to go ? ''

Catherine turned her head to eye the other members behind her. She could see the displeasure in their faces, yet they all seemed motivated. Catherine looked back to Ryushi. "We're good to go."

Chiron pulled his horse closer to Valentino's. "We should get to the villagers as quickly as possible. My group can get them patched up in a jiff."

Ryushi nods toward Catherine and then turn to Nadleeh. ''Ready as well ?''

Valentino nods and start leading the rest. ''Alright Lady and Gentlemen this way !'' He said starting the advance toward the village but he was doing so very carefully ready to use his exorcist tools at any time.[/color]

Nadleeh leads her group to the cavern entrance, moving silently as she opens up her book before her and glances down at the page number briefly, turning pages as they walk.  She's not a stealthy person, but she is doing her best to be quiet, regardless.  When the get closer, she sighs, moving to the entrance and placing the book in the satchel after closing it.  She has her first verse in mind, her dagger pulled as they enter the cavern cautiously.

Deep within the dark and dank area, small shadows can be seen with glowing eyes.  There are other sounds, hissing sounds, which echo upon the cavern walls.  As the darkness of the night envelopes the night sky, it become harder to see within the cave.  If they use a torch, the enemy will see them--but it's not as if they can see in the dark.  She awaits Ryushi's command.

Ryushi walks carefully right behind Nadleeh followed by eden, some other exorcist, the support team and other exorcists behind them. They all move carefully and can still see very slightly in the darkness of the cave. But it'll soon be impossible to see in the cavern. Shadows were approaching and their glowing eyes were giving away their positions in a way. He took out some of his exorcist talisman out and threw some toward the glowing eyes. It created sparks as it reacted with the shadows and made light for a slight moment. ''Stay together and exorcise everything coming ! Protect the supports !'' He said throwing more talisman to help keep them away. ''If you see one of the girl do your best to purify her !''

Catherine held tightly onto her sketchbook as she tip toed behind Nadleeh and Ryushi. She wanted to summon a weapon for herself, but the darkness made it difficult to see her drawings. Not to mention the limited time she could have something summoned. She drew one of her scalpels and held it like a pitiful dagger. One of the healers wanted to facepalm after seeing how defenceless Catherine looked.

Pushing her dagger into her palm, she drew the protective seal upon it as a small barrier appears with a rectangle shape just to Catherine's left side--just in time as a rush of shadows pushed and rushed into it, causing it to shatter as they attempt to rush into her body.  Nadleeh jumps from the jolt of surprise, as it was pure luck that she managed to put it up in time.

"We're surrounded," Nadleeh says nervously, scrunching in closer to Ryushi as the spirits move to attack once more.

Ryushi sighs. ''Everyone close to me ! '' He says as he does his best to concentrate to make his barrier around the group.''

Eaden caught the signal and launched out a growl to scare the shadow for a bit or attempt to. He was after all a higher spirit class. ''Move out of our way or meet my fangs.'' Eaden said attempting to intimidate lower spirit then him while growling.

Catherine's eyes darted all over the cave walls, searching for any threats. Nadleeh's barrier caused Catherine to jump, but what followed scared her out of her skin. Her breathing hastened as she froze, stunned that the barrier appeared at just the right time. Ryushi's order snapped her back to reality. She scurried to Ryushi's side, unsure what she could possibly do with a book and a tiny blade.

Nadleeh watched as the shadows shrank from them, Eaden's threat clearly effective.  She's relieved, her non-wounded hand falling over her heart as her nerves slightly calm.  Still, she is anxious, her eyes darting this way and that as she tries to find any semblance of movement outside of the glowing eyes.  She can't see anything.

With nervousness, she steps forward, hoping that the threat will keep the shadows at bay.  Luckily, this works, and as they move forward more, they find themselves...in a shrine.  A cave-like shrine, but clearly a shrine of maidens if Nadleeh's ever seen one.  They are all zombie-like in appearance, their eyes glazed over , gazing to flickering blue light as they sit around a fire that did not flicker with light until the group was almost upon it.

The shadows have shrunken away and the Nadleeh looks to the one woman who doesn't look like a zombie at all--she's very clear minded, her eyes cold as her cheeks are streaked with red of bloody tears.  This is the one that Nadleeh could not purify--not while the lower possessive ones protected her.    She just can't handle them all at once.

The powerful woman speaks, sighing with impatience, "You're back.  And you brought friends.  I'm disappointed.  I thought we were going to have a fair fight, human."

Nadleeh scowls, but she says nothing.  If she attacks her, the weaker ones will horde to them--and if they attack any of them physically, they kill the women in which they reside.  These women can be saved, but Nadleeh cannot purify them all at once, for sure.  Will the group be able to keep them at bay?

Ryushi thanks Eaden as this one managed to get rid of the threat. Ryushi still casted his barrier to help threaten the weaker spirits to come further even more. He focused greatly to keep it around the group as they proceeded through and gave a smile to Eaden who walked behind him. As they get to a shrine, they could see the women they wanted to help. They were all pocessed though,just great. ''If they come close do your best to immobilize them without killing them or wounding them too bad. I'll take care of the support. He said focusing his barrier around the support squad which was far less demanding in focus since it was smaller. He knew they were capable.

Eaden growls at the demon and says ''Funny how your pathetic self proclaim wanting a fair fight when you were fighting this human with more numbers and while pocessing human women. Do not call for respect when you can't even respect the other yourself. '' Eaden seamed pissed at this spirit, but he was ready to just simply immobilize anything that would get close without killing. [/color]

Catherine made sure to stay inside the barrier at all times. She couldn't imagine what the big spirit causing all this could be like. Her answer was given unexpectantly soon, however, as the group made their way into a chamber with several grisly looking bodies strewn about the room. "So is this the thing we came to eradicate? Seems a bit relaxed, a little too relaxed for my liking."

"Mmmm," Nadleeh replies to Catherine, but her gaze has not left the speaking demon.  Horns have begun to sproud from her head, cracking through the woman's flesh.  If she gets rid of this....the man in the town will have less energy here.  She can sense that he is borrowing from its power.  Well, actually...it isn't a sense.  It's an educated guess.  She could be wrong.

Nadleeh pulls out her book, opening it up to a marked page that she had prepped as she speaks the line she had prepared before entering the cavern.  She speaks as loudly as she can, so as to take advantage of the acoustics of the cavern walls and their echoes.

"Though the flesh may bind, the flesh decays.  Any mortal taken will remember its livings and fight from within."  Nadleeh declares, "Though the flesh may bind, the flesh decays.  These are the words of Vioria."

The demon spits blood at the ground before them, blood splattering upon the dirty ground as the girls around it begin to screech, now moving to attack the barrier with panic and blind rage.  The bloody woman puts her hands over her ears as her eyes glow red, intent not to listen.

"Though the flesh may bind, the flesh decays," Nadleeh repeats angrily, "You will leave this form or we will force you out!"

"Uh, anybody got a plan?" Catering muttered as she opened her sketch book. She flipped through the pages until she found a sketch of a marble statue. The book began to glow as a stone figure materialized in front of Catherine. It took on the figure of an armored warrior donned with a shield and spear. It was slightly taller than the average human with a muscular frame, but the whole thing appeared to be made out of marble stone. "Don't mind the walking statue, just another bodyguard."

Ryushi nods and then he adds ''Protect Nadleeh while she cast, and immobilize anything that comes close Eaden ! Try to immobilize the girl. Have two good support exorcist help her !'' He said while doing his best to keep his focus on the barrier at the same time.

Everyone stood in defense position for the other girls if they were to attack.

Eaden shook the woman a bit so she would lose composure and stop covering her ears and then slammed her against a wall, not hard enough to badly hurt her but just enough to get her stuck there. Out of desperation of being trapped the woman tries to bite Eaden, but this one does not budge at all. He's not impressed.

The demon screamed profanities, but Nadleeh continued as the creature fought back against her magic.  SLowly, it began to fail as the horde of women began to attack the group, but Nadleeh was kept safe.  A good day to have friends.

Looking down at the new page, she tries for a stronger phrase, "With the light of Vioria, I condemn you; Un prava oes treyah!  Un prava oes treyah!"

The demon is clearly in pain, the horns now disappearing, but her body is now growing hot to the touch.  Unfortunately this might burn Eaden, but demons are typical in their attempts to defend themselves, so hopefully, he will not be surprised as the demon is slowly forced from its body while the others try to wail on the group.

Ryushi is slightly worried for Eaden, but he knew he couldn't afford to think about right now. He continued hard to focus on the barrier as others were dealing with the other women who charged.

Eaden was growling slightly in annoyance, but he didn't let go regardless of the burn. He would not let that demon escape no matter what. Eaden was in a way waiting for the demon to be completely out to snap it in half if small enough for that.

As the humanoid snake demon comes out of the woman it is at first slightly transparent, but the moment it gets out completely and becomes a physical form, he snap the demon in two with his powerful teeth and then let go of the lifeless demon like it was the worst thing he ever tasted in his life. He then let go of the woman who falls slowly on her knees with his help. And then he turns toward the other women who had weaker spirits inside of them and let go once again of a powerful growl. ''Let go of these women or face the same fate pitiful demons.'' he threatens them.

Ryushi nods with a smile. ''We got the most powerful one, who else want a taste of us ?'' He said with confidence toward the women.

Nadleeh smiles in relief as the creatures vanish into mist, exiting the bodies of the innocent women and forcing their bodies to collapse into the ground.  She closes the book, her body shaking weakly as she, too, moves to her knees.  One situation down.  One to go.   At least this mess is almost over.

Ryushi let go of the barrier for now and check on Nadleeh. He was slightly exausted to, but he started to direct the others. ''Alright I want the support group to check quickly on the woman to make sure their state are stable as well as our own troups, as soon as this is confirmed we will start carrying the women outside. Eaden I'll count on you to scare off minions again, it really helped. Are you okay ?'' He said as he approached him.

Eaden shook it off and said ''It's just a scratch, nothing to be worried about. ''

''Want me to bandage it at lesat so the sensitive part doesn't rub badly on the ground ?'' He asked wondering.

Eaden shook his head. ''Let's not waste any time, these fragile humans need more assistance then I.

''Alright tough guy.'' He said as he moved this time toward Nadleeh. ''How is it going stamina wise ? Will you be okay ?''

"I'll be okay," Nadleeh says, "That took about....a third of my mana."

''Happy to hear, take a breather we'll go as soon as the support team is done checking.

After the monsters were banished, Catherine took a sigh of relief. As soon as the barrier dropped she walked over to the nearest body, feeling reinvigorated. "Alright, people. You know what to do." She ordered as if she held some semblance of command. The nurses looked to each other with side glances, checking each woman was alive and stable. After that, they merely asked members of Ryushi's group if they were okay. Didn't seem anyone had sustained any injuries.
 
''So ? Are they all okay ?.'' He asked Catherine as he got closer to her.

"They're fine. Just unconscious. A shame I haven't gotten to display my craft." She responded with a witty smirk

Ryushi chuckles and says ''Well, it's not over yet.'' He move toward the others and said. ''Alright guys we're moving out of this cave with the women. Time to see where the other group is at with their own mission!'' He said loudly enough for everyone to hear.

After some time they managed to get out of the cave with all the women safe and Ryushi looked in the direction of the village to try and see where the others were. Looked like there was a fire in the village, but he coulde see where people were being evacuated. ''All right, just a little more guys, let's bring those women at the evacuation spot. Then we'll move out to battle again after hearing from the others. '' They all move to the evacuation point and he looks around to try and find Chirron or Valentino to have a report.

People seemed to start to notice the other group returning and seemed quite happy to see them safe and well as well as the women. Some of the villagers reconized some of them and were crying in joy to see their loved ones alive.

Ryushi moved over toward Chirron when he spotted him carrying a baby and said. ''Hey, we're back, I see a fire in the village, what's the status of the spirit and the evacuation ?''

Chiron, holding a baby for some inexplicable reason, saw Ryushi and his gang with several bodies they recovered. "Oh no, don't tell me we've already got casualties." He handed the baby to its owner and met Ryushi halfway. "The evacuation is well under way. Most of the injuries have been minor, so everyone has been able to get up and leave. Wait, did you say a fire?"

Nadleeh struggles to stand, but she's assisted by leaning over on a friend.  Her mana is still there, but her body is weak.   Such joy.  With a bit of a limp, she is appreciative of Catherine's bandages and wonders what else they will do, and how they will put out the fire.

"Maybe we should split," Nadleeh suggests, "Half attack that fire and half attack that asshole that started this shit.  He's just a man and he'll be weaker without that demon, I bet."

''Sounds good, so I think that now that we know everyone is safe here, we'll take back a few of our offence members from the other team and attack full force, the offensive support squad will follow us in case and I'll be again their defense. Also Chirron don't worry, everyone is safe, the women have simply lost consciousness after being pocessed. Anyone who is offence and can assist with the exorcist, come with me ! Everyone else, stay safe and protect the villagers.''

He then gets closer to Nadleeh for a moment and ask ''Are you gonna be okay ? If anything you can stay behind some other offence rank, we'll protect you. ''

Eaden was already ready to move out, but waited on them.

Valentino arrived and gathered a few of the best offence exorcist and said ''Ready anytime !'' as he punched into his palm with a smirk.

Catherine turned to her little assistants "You three can do whatever the hell you want, but I'm going with Ryushi. Way too boring babysitting around here."

After drinking a bit of water, Nadleeh waits, rather than adding assistance to those fleeing the town.  Seeing several of the Guild Members carry out children and women away from danger was a sight, and the second group had done an excellent job in evacuating everyone safely.  With relief, she manages to stand upright by herself when her suggestion is heard and she's ready to go.

She won't be able to help as much here, but she'll be able to do some.  As they enter the town, it's obvious which building has the man in it--it's the only one not damaged or burned in some way.  In fact, the building is pristine, untouched.  With a scowl, she marches to the door, but waits for Ryushi.

Ryushi is right behind Nadleeh and nod at her as he come close. ''I'll cast my barrier first to be safe. Everyone stand close, if you need to move out of the barrier, be extremelly careful. ''

He then turned to Eaden and said. ''Be careful as well, I don't know what this one is capable of doing, but I'll let you work with your instincts.'' He told him with a smile. ''I want a portion to protect the support squad if needed.''

''I'll be assisting the exorcism, my tools are all ready.'' Valentino said while holding some kind of paper.

''I'm ready to go as always Ryushi.'' Eaden replied back.

He nods and cast his Barrier around the group and then give a short nods to Nadleeh to say he was ready to head in. ''Let's go.''

Nadleeh enterse the building with a swift kick, rushing in to find...nothing.  The one-room council hall building, small and simple, is completely empty.

"What the...?"  Nadleeh says.

As they saw nothing Ryushi looked around quickly and he pointed up. ''ABOVE there's a spirit attack !'' It was a man in a kimono that seemed about ready to jump in their direction. People threw talismans to try and weaken it.

Valentino prepared his band of paper that had a spell on it already. He was ready to launch it at the spirit once it would get closer to trap it like a snake would trap its prey.

Eaden was ready to attack if it got a little too lcose in personal space, but also stayed a bit behind to avoid friendly fire.

Nadleeh ducks, but a thick, black ooze has fallen upon her--and although she can't see it, she can certainly feel it as the others tear the spirit apart.  She has no idea what's going on--she can't see anything of the enemy and she can hear only chaos.  Her eyes have become blinded and her mind numb as she collapses to the ground.

Catherine followed behind the group, excited to see what was causing all this comotion. When they discovered the man guised in a frilly getup, Catherine was almost disappointed. Some old chump summoned all these spirits? Catherine put a hand on her hips and looked around for something more interesting. Nadleeh, however went out to face the guy, promptly getting her ass handed to her. Catherine's eyes opened with surprise, but she couldn't do much inside the barrier.

''Nadleeh !'' Ryushi expressed. She had gotten out of the barrier when they entered and the talisman had missed.

Valentino didn't wait long to launch his trap on the spirit now that it was close, he could see where it was, but he couldn't see as clearly as Ryushi. He sent his paper spell that was acting like a scarf wrapping all around the body of the spirit and he pulled it away from Nadleeh and slammed it into the barrier to shock him since Ryushi's barrier had pretty good effect on evil spirits. ''NOW !!''

The guild sent out more talisman trapping the spirit there. This man in a kimono was yelling from the pain of being trapped. Ryushi then stepped out of the barrier and got closer, the barrier stopped, but he was chanting something that seemed to be of another language. He then placed a hand on the spirit's forehead and this one immediatly calmed down. The spirit could feel as if he was loved and happy. Some kind of bad energy left the spirit's body and dissapeared.[/color]

The spirit simply smiled and dissapeared into a mist of light.

Valentino immediatly rushed to Nadleeh. ''Nadleeh ! Nadleeh !!'' He took her in his arm to check on her.

Ryushi came back slowly toward the other and he was breathing a bit heavily. To be honest he was feeling rather dizzy at this point, but he had to keep going to direct everyone. ''Catherine. Check on Nadleeh please ?'' He asked looking worried.

Catherine walked up to Nadleeh's motionless body. She kneeled down and raised the woman's hand. It felt warm, but limp, so she then checked her eyes, followed by feeling for her pulse around her neck. Her pulse was there, but it was very fast. Given the situation Catherine wasn't sure if it was a bad sign, but Nadleeh's purple lips and pronounced veins were a problem. "She's alive, but she needs a thorough examination quickly. We gotta get her to the camp outside."

''Nadleeh !'' Ryushi expressed. She had gotten out of the barrier when they entered and the talisman had missed.

Valentino didn't wait long to launch his trap on the spirit now that it was close, he could see where it was, but he couldn't see as clearly as Ryushi. He sent his paper spell that was acting like a scarf wrapping all around the body of the spirit and he pulled it away from Nadleeh and slammed it into the barrier to shock him since Ryushi's barrier had pretty good effect on evil spirits. ''NOW !!''

The guild sent out more talisman trapping the spirit there. This man in a kimono was yelling from the pain of being trapped. Ryushi then stepped out of the barrier and got closer, the barrier stopped, but he was chanting something that seemed to be of another language. He then placed a hand on the spirit's forehead and this one immediatly calmed down. The spirit could feel as if he was loved and happy. Some kind of bad energy left the spirit's body and dissapeared.[/color]

The spirit simply smiled and dissapeared into a mist of light.

Valentino immediatly rushed to Nadleeh. ''Nadleeh ! Nadleeh !!'' He took her in his arm to check on her.

Ryushi came back slowly toward the other and he was breathing a bit heavily. To be honest he was feeling rather dizzy at this point, but he had to keep going to direct everyone. ''Catherine. Check on Nadleeh please ?'' He asked looking worried.

Eaden could sense that Ryushi was growing weak and he came behind him to become his support to stand.

Catherine walked up to Nadleeh's motionless body. She kneeled down and raised the woman's hand. It felt warm, but limp, so she then checked her eyes, followed by feeling for her pulse around her neck. Her pulse was there, but it was very fast. Given the situation Catherine wasn't sure if it was a bad sign, but Nadleeh's purple lips and pronounced veins were a problem. "She's alive, but she needs a thorough examination quickly. We gotta get her to the camp outside."

Ryushi nods and says ''Alright everyone we'll all move to camp and regroup once more. Valentino could you bring Nadleeh with you ? ''

Valentino nods and take her in his arms.

Eaden steps down to let Ryushi come up on his back.

Ryushi gets on Eaden and they all start heading out to the camp, as they get there he seeks out Chirron right away. ''Chirron ! We have an emergency we need you !''

Valentino placed Nadleeh down for Chirron to examine her with his power.

Chiron took a look at Nadleeh, stroking his chin. "Very interesting, looks like asphyxiation, but she appears to be breathing." With that, he placed his hand on Nadleeh's forehead, using his ability. "Poisoned." He instantly began digging through his medic kit, taking out a small vial with a clear liquid. "This antidote should fix her up in a few hours. She'll need rest until the poison is gone. Chiron took out an empty syringe and put the needle into the liquid, drawing it inside. He then pulled down Nadleeh's sleeve to expose her shoulder, cleaned it with solvent, and injected the syringe.

Ryushi nods with a soft smile. ''Good to hear she will be okay. I'll proceed with helping put out the fire with the others, or rather directing them. I leave her in your hands for now.'' Ryushi was still on Eaden and he yelled toward the other. ''The spirit is gone ! Now we'll need to put out the fire and take into account the material casualities. Any villagers that are still healthy enough that wish to help are welcome. We'll use the water of the river to do it, we'll need to do a chain, let's go. '' With this several of his guildmates and villagers that were okay went to put out the fire and after quite some time they finally managed to do so.

Ryushi was getting really tired at this point as he tried to help himself regardless of starting to be at his limit, but he did his best to stay up with some help of Eaden. Then they calculated casualities and he found the mayor of the village and started to elaborate the help they would send from the town in the next couple of days. His guild also placed multiple protection talisman around the village to help protect it from evil.  They left the food and water supplies they packed for them as well as blankets, mat and ect and made sure everyone was okay. At dawn they finally left the village saying they would most likely come back later after some rest.

Nadleeh was brough on a carriage sleeping on a mat with Chirron close to her to be safe as per Ryushi's request. Ryushi was pretty much KO on Eaden's back sleeping like a baby. He fell face first into his fur as soon as they left. Arriving at the guild they were helped by other members there to unpack everything and place everything where it had to go. Someone took Ryushi to his room as there was no waking him and Valentino brought Nadleeh to the nurse office so they could keep tab on her recovery. When everyone was done, they all went to bed to rest.

White Cross ~ During the 8 days

**PLEASE WAIT ON LEAH'S POST TO POST THANK YOU !**

**Posting this before hers since it'll have a continuation within her next post and mine that will be the situation people who arrive there will see a bit. The timeskip is coming just wait a lil tiny more, thank you for your patience =)**

After the village incident being cleared, a lot of people talked well of the guild and how they saved an entire village from demons. Also how the guild had been helping the village rebuild part that were damaged or destroyed with the help of Aer Town in general. Ryushi had been going left and right meeting with people to get more people involved into rebuilding and helping with supplies. It was impressive how fast it was rebuilding. Although if it wasn't enough.... another problem was going to arise about 5 days after in the evening. A mysterious symbol had suddenly appeared under the guild hall and it was a complete circle around the entire guild. Ryushi would have to look into this and try to know if it was a danger to his guild or not. Either way it was not something to take lightly.

It took Nadleeh two full days of bed rest to fully recover.  It was horrible.  Not being able to get up, being told to lay back down repeatedly.   They even took all of her main travelling clothes to prevent her from sneaking out.  It would seem that past exploits have now prevented her from obtaining any semblence of a break from....this break.  The first day was hell.  The second, significantly better.  Her body was weak and eating was something that didn't sound appealing for a while, but she ate, anyway.  Light soups and things.

By then, the small town neary White Cross was well under repair.  Surprising.  Not at all what she was expecting, to be honest.  Things usually start slow and then pick up, but...this was just incredible for starts.  It truly was.  Revisiting the town (when they finally let her out of her cage) was a wonder, seeing the improvements and in fact, much of the buildings were in better condition than they had been before the attack.  Someone was able to scrounge out some fantastic building materials.
A lot of the villagers were much friendlier--even to her.  Nadleeh had always had a tough time here, even more than her Guildmates.  Whitecker was a town that was squite unsettled at the new Guild that had been built so nearby.  Of course it was protection, but it was also more unfamiliarity.  Strangers with magic, more traveling nearby...the small town had a hard time adjusting, at first.  Still, after the Guild had made a good name with the place, Nadleeh still struggled, personally.

It was her religion.  With religion came the assumption of her zealotry.  Her fanaticism.  The fact that she carred around the holy scripture of Vioria certainly did not help.  Still, she found, after her soft return to the village, all of those judgemental glares and commentary had been finally laid to rest.  It was...nice.   Everyone was in good spirits and were smiling.  Nadleeh even took part in helping out with a few minor things around the town, herself.  It was a while before she was able considered "fighting fit."
It had been Zeddicus that had woken her from her sleep, mumbling incoherently.  He kept calling her Ryushi and speaking of the spirit plane alignment.  That and a magic spell.  It was weird, nonsensical.   His phrasing was out of whack, his motions fidgety and not all there.  His speech went in and out and his mannerisms were sluggish.  WHen Zedd gets like this...the only person that can calm him, fix him, or whatever is Ryushi.  She had to try to drag the suit of armor to the Guild Master's room, because clearly he had been lost.

It was painful to see him like this, emotionally.  It was devestating and worrying.   And it was the first time Nadleeh had seen him like this, personally.  She'd heard about it, sure, but never seen it.  It's not the same and it's not forgettable.  After Ryushi calmed the spirit, Zedd had informed them both that there was a magical symbol under the Guild.  As in, under the building.  Nadleeh was skeptical, at first, when she stepped out of the hall, there it was, burned--scorched into the earth beneath them.  The perfect circle spread out farther than the building itself, expanding with such great detail that it frightened Nadleeh when she looked at it.
The pieces of the symbol that are visible are not something Nadleeh has ever seen before.  Nor does any of it seem remotely familiar.  She can do ritual blood magic, which takes magic symbols, but not symbols like this.  It looks strange, alien.  And of course, none of the other Guild members can recognize the pieces that they can see, either.  Of course, having pieces of the symbol missing due to the location of the building sitting upon its center, that definitely complicated things, but Zedd was able to draw up a vague picture of it for them.  He told Ryushi that he could see it from the spirit transfer.  Whatever the hell that means.  Nadleeh really doesn't know what any of that means.

After the research in the libraries had begun, Nadleeh volunteered to search the Viorian Church Library.  Many were going to the small town library, the guild library, and a couple of other small ones nearby...because one thing was clear:  The cause and purpose of the symbol needs to be discvoered quickly.  Nadleeh's hair has stood up at the back of her neck ever since the first time she laid eyes on it.  She gets goosbumps every single time she steps back onto it after leaving the outer limits of the symbol's edge.  Others described much the same effects, as well...but is it because they are creeped out or instinct?  Or is it something more?

Ever since Ryushi heard from Zedd told him more about the symbol, he just couldn't believe it. A magic capable of activating in all three realms, physical spirit and the realm of transfer between the two. Was is something dangerous ? Was it something else ? What was it ?! Thing for sure the guild had become quite the uncomfortable whenever within that circle and even when going out. But at least the symbol was dormant, but he couldn't help but be worried of the what it would do if it suddenly activated. And so he continued to provide help to the nearby village, but had a good portion of the guild do research in libraries. He searched himself all night the first night and most of the day after. He tried to think of who he could ask for help for such magic. He had no idea if someone would know of this magic even it was a first even for him.

It was late evening, the day after the symbol appeared and Ryushi was fighting to stay awake and research more. ''So Eaden you said even to you this is something you never saw ?''

''Indeed, I do not think it's a good sight.'' Eaden Replied shaking his head.

''Me neither.... I'm starting to wonder if I should not evacuate the guild for safety measures.'' He said with a sigh. Ryushi also wondered if Nadleeh found anything on her side, but he knew he still had a good twenty books to look through, but all the letters were starting to read the same after that much searching.

Two days recovering, two days rebuilding, and then...this nonsense.  It was all just chaos and confusion after that and it didn't take long for Nadleeh to volunteer to leave for research of her own.  She was happy to be able to travel back to her home, as well as have access to a much larger library.  Her church has the largest library in the local area for many miles, which is not only one of their best points to gain visitors, but also another way she can prove to the Guild that her religion is not a hindrance.

She has read books all day every day.  For two and a half days.  Two and a half days...and yet, she and the other priests have found very little.  Nadleeh was surprised, at first, at the number of books that entailed the "spirit transfer" term, since it's apparently a very ancient term for the gateway between.  Still, knowing how little she did, these books explain a lot to her.  A lot.  In fact, just from this one research alone, Nadleeh feels as though she understand Zedd better than she ever had before...

It's on the third day that she finds it:  A book on transfer magic.  It's apparently rare.  And dangerous.  She doesn't even take the time to read the entire book through before snagging it, checking it out, and thanking the other priests for helping her search.  And of course, she thanked Mythra, the girl who found the book.  This book had to be the answer.  It had to be!  But in case it isn't...she'll have the priests keep looking as she delivers this one to Ryushi...

To Be Continued after leah's post ;D